The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

WELSHPOOL. THE BOROUGH AUDITORS.—Mr. A. J. Blair and Mr. Samuel Manford have been elected Borough Auditors without opposition. THE MILITIA.—The recruits of the 4th Battalion South Wales Borderers assembled here on Monday for sixty-three days preliminary training, ASSOCIATION FOR THE PROSECUTION OF FELONS. The annual dinner of the members of this Associa- tion was held at the Royal Oak Hotel on Thursday evening. The proceedings were private. THE MARKET.—At Monday's market chickens fetched from 3s. 6d. to 5s. per couple, ducks 5s. to 6s. guinea fowls 5s., geese 5s. to 6s. each, turkeys 4s. to 9s. each. Butter sold at Is. 3d. per lb., and eggs at 18 for Is. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.—Our readers will be pleased to hear that the Committee of the above Society have engaged at considerable expense, the Band of H.M. Coldstream Guards for the fete to be held in Powis Castle Park on Thursday the 9th of August. TEARINF". THEIR CLOTHES.—At the County Police Court on Tuesday before S. Powell, Esqr., Thomas Brookes, Congleton, and Samuel Johnson, St. Luke's, London, were charged by J. Powell, porter at Forden Workhouse, with tearing their clothes. Each prisoner was sentenced to fourteen days. MISSIONS.—The last of a series of meetings in aid of the P.M.M. Society, was held at Trelystan, on Friday evening, when there was an excellent attendance. The nett sum raised by the Welsh- 1 ool Circuit, for the cause of Missions this year is ^19 beinsr an increase over last year's amount, over o DEATH OF MRS. BREESE, SPRING BANK.—This sad event took place on Saturday at the deceased lady's residence, Spring Bank, at the age of 72. The deceased lady who was highly respected, for- ly resided at Llanwnog, where we understand lrfuneral obsequies took place on Thursday. .p F BRSIXESS.—At the Borough Police Court Wednesday before D. P. Owen, Esq., William runner was charged by P.C. Lewis with begging at r' psllwvd and on defendant promising to leave immediately the case was dismissed. n Thursday before D. P. Owen, Esq., Jno. °n liiiirsj char„ed fey P. C. R. Jones with Turnbu^ ,vas ordered to leave the town withinanhour. CHURCH.—A Lecture was given in ^'toolroom of the above church on Thursday the bchoo u illustrated by evening) "|v wiven by "Lieut:" Street, of lantern view Corps.—At the termination of the fealvat Dawson said he was sure the lecture, 11 "cry thankfnl to Lieut:" Street for they were a entertain them (and also the going there aIld begged to propose that their children bt tQ ],im —This was carried un- thanks be g meeting terminated by the animouslv, tile IJymy "Abide with Me" and the —The monthly meeting ivas held in L A ;i Chamber last night, when Mr. the W-ev Jones took the chair. The Chairman, HUMPHIE} J pleased to see so many in opening, saidjie p];ul tQ find thafc young Pe°Pleon7, took an interest in temperance ;h%JOO"Ai'3o^,g programme then gone work. lh. station, Miss 31. Reese reading, Mr. ^T^Iones violin solo. Master Wendell Jones; A. 1. B Thomas; song, Miss Roberts; recitation, M ■ Dnvies; song, Miss Maggie recitation, A Walter Davies; song. lUr, J, ?aViIS ;song-^Ir' C" H" JolieS' OF ASSAULT.—At the Police Court CHARGE oi fore D.P.()wen and W. yesterday morni g,abeth Davies> Powell's Row, Rogers, Lsqrs Thomas 0f the same place, was charged by dancr]ltei.; Eiizabeth Thomas, with assaultm0 -n evidence that the on Wednesday. the Back Road when she little girl was go g who struck her against the wasinet by defen scratched her face and British School pa' Defendent stated used ak"f,lVtL-ri used abusive language towards that the little g« d d the case to see her.- The Magi rates aci mcantime. how things would go on m BRITISH SCHOOL TREAT.—The scholars of this school were legaled for the last time with a splen- did tea at the School-room on Friday, when about 120 sat down. The following ladies looked after the wants of the scholars :—Mrs. T. R. Morris, Bronhaul; Mrs. Richard, Powell, Mrs. J. Reese, Mrs. E. Hughes, Mrs. Macqueen, Mrs. Idrisyn Jones, Mrs. J. H. Davies, Misses Davies, Victoria Terrace, Mrs. J. Jones, Severn Street; Miss Macqueen, Mrs. Blair, Mrs. Gardiner, and Mrs. Evans, Rev. T. C. Jones, Mr. T. R. Morris, Mr. Richard Powell, and Mr. A. J. Blair. Songs and recitations were given by the children, and a very enjoyable time was spent. A "DOMICILIARY" VISIT AND THE RESULT.—At the Borough Police Court on Saturday before E. O. Jones (Mayor) and D. P. Owen, Esqrs., John Davies, of no fixed abode was charged by P.C. R. Jones with sleeping out and with assaultinGr him.—The Police Constable stated that he found defendant in an outbuilding in Salop Road about 3 a.m. that morning. He became very disorderly and in the scuffle which ensued one of the policeman's hands was slightly hurt. It was only wjth great difficulty that defendant was got to the lock-up. For sleep- ing out defendant was sentenced to seven days and for the assault to a month. "NEOLITHIC" MAN.—On Tuesday evening at a meeting of the Literary Union in the Church House at which the Rev. Grimaldi Davies presided, the Rev. LIew. Jones read on behalf of the Rev. Elias Owen, Vicar of Llanyblodwel, who was pre- vented from being present by the death of his brother, a paper on the Abodes of Neolithic Man in North Wales." The writer in introducing the subject made a few remarks on the state of the country in pre-historic times and gave quotations to show that the country even in the sixteenth century was almost one continuous forest. He then proceeded to give a description of the huts of neolithic man, stating that the remnants of de- tached huts were to be found along the sides of the Carnarvon Hills, in uncultivated parts of Anglesea, in Merionethshire and Montgomeryshire, and of huts built in walls which consisted of three or more circular rooms nestling in a wall and opening into a common court. In conclusion he stated that a systematic exploration of these abodes yet;remained to be accomplished. In the sub- sequent discussion the Chairman, Mr. Roper, Mr. Percy Williams, and Mr. Rawson took part, and on the motion of Mr. Wilfred Jones seconded by Mr. Rawson, a vote of sympathy with Mr. Elias Owen in hia trouble was passed. At the next meeting on March 8th Mr. G. D. Harrison will open a debate on Anarchists and how to to deal with them."

SERIOUS CHARGE AGAINST A WELSHPOOL WOMAN. ROBBERY BY THE MARKET HALL KEEPER. SCENE IN COURT. lesterday (Friday) afternoon at the Town Clerk s office, before W. Rogers, D. Wall, and D. P. Owen, Esqrs., Sarah Bentley was charged with feloniously stealing one piece of shirting, two dress pieces, and divers other articles, the goods and chatels of one James Pilot, of Newtown, of the value of £79s. 6d. Before the prisoner was brought up, as chairman proceeded to explain to Mr. Wall, who is unfortunately hard of hearing, the facts of tho case, which was to come before them. He said This is a case in which the police charge a woman with being in possession of certain property believed to be stolen, and I think we ought to adjourn it. Mr. Wall: To the Petty Sessions ? Mr. Owen No, until such time as the police wish in order that they may make enquiries. That is what you want isn't it Sergeant Humphreys ? Stirgeant Humphreys No sir, we are quite ready to go into the case fully to-day. Mr. Owen But it must be adjourned. Sergeant Humphreys It is not necessary sir. We have all the evidence here. Mr. Owen: Do you produce the warrant ? Sergeant Humphreys Yes sir (produced.) Mr. Owen Then produce the woman. Sergeant Humphreys: If you are ready to begin sir. Mr. Owen Yea, fetch her in. Prisoner was then brought in. Louisa Pilot was the first witness called. Mr. Owen What's your name ?—Louisa Pilot, sir. Are you married ?—Yes. Now just tell us The Clerk What is your husband's name, and where do you live ?—James Pilot, and I live at 13 Bridge street, Newtown. Mr. Owen: Now simply tell us what has taken place; don't tell us too much, just tell us what took place.—Each market I go to I leave my goods in the market hall Mr. Owen Wait a minute. The Clerk: Are you in the habit of attending Welshpool market ?—Yes sir, and other markets as well. Mr. Owen: Yes. Witness I leave my goods in boxes which I lock up at these markets. Mr. Owen Have you lost anything ? j have sir for the last two or three years. Stop Have you lost anything ?■ Yes sir I have, the goods I have identified. Wait a minute The Clerk Would it not be better sir to let her give her evidence first ? Mr. Owen: No. I want the date, we must have a date. Mr. Rogers (another magistrate) made a remark. Mr. Owen: Oh, if you have heard all this before you had better go away. I have told you to be quiet before. D. C. C. Crowden: Under the circumstances I think the police wish to make a little more enquirv Can we adjourn the case for an hour ? Mr. Rogers: Yes. (To Mr. Wall): Do you consent to the case being adjourned for an hour? Mr. Wall: Yes. Mr. Owen: You are making a mistake. Mr. Rogers We will adjourn for an hour. Mr. Owen Oh, will you P Mr. Rogers Do you agree Mr. Wall ? Mr. Wall ? I do. Mr. Rogers: Then the case is adjourned for au hour. The two magistrates then left the room Mr. Owen in the chair. Mr. Owen subsequently left, and did not rot,, at the time fixed. rn At 4.30 the case was commenced de novo the magistrates ipresent being Mr. W. Rogers in' th chair, Mr. T. 11. Morris, and Mr. D. Wall. 6 Louisa Pilot, wife of James Pilot, 13 Brid Street, Newtown, said:—I am in the habit of attending (Welshpool and other markets and kee my goods there in boxes, under lock and key The goods are left at Welshpool market from one market to another. I have missed goods from time to time. I saw a dress piece belonging to me on prisoner's daughter, and from this I suspected that Mrs. Bentley had taken the other goods which were missing. I gave information to D.C.C. Crow den on Wednesday, and on Thursday I obtained a search warrant and was present when the goods (produced) were found. I identify the piece of shirting, the two dress pieces, and the various other drapery goods produced by Sergeant Humphreys Their value is £7 9s. 6d.—Prisoner asked no questions. By D.C.C. Crowden: I always found the locks fastened as I left them. I have missed goods for the last five years. I changed the locks several times but still goods were missed. I spoke to the market .people about it but said nothino- to the police until Wednesday. ° Agnes Holmes, wife of Sergeant Holmes, living at the Hospital, in New Street said :—Yesterday the prisoner's two children Tom Morris and Elizabeth Morris brought a box to the Hospital and asked me if I would take it in ? This was between one and half-past one o'clock in the dav I took the box in. She said her mother was awfully nasty with her, and she would leave it until she came for it. I did not know what the box contained at the time. About two o'clock Tom Morris came down and asked me to allow the box to remain there, as his mother had turned awfully against Lizzie. Subsequently Sergt. Humphreys came down and asked for the box which had been left and I handed it to him. By the Chairman: I thought the box belonged to the girl. Witness continuing said :—Sergeant Humphreys opened the box in my presence. I saw in it some stockings, a shawl, and other articles. P.S. Humphreys said Yesterday I read a search warrant from Mrs. Pilot to search the house of Edwin Bentley, of New Street. In company with P.C. Jones I went there. One of the daughters of the prisoner came to the door. I told her I wanted to see her mother. Mrs. Bentley came to the door and I said I wanted to say a few words to her privately. I went into the parlour with her and I said I had got a warrant to starch the house for some drapery goods that had leen stolen from the. market hall, the property of MJs. Pilot of Newtownd I read the warrant and cautbned her. She saie she knew nothing at all alout jt; it must bo wrong. I then told her it vould be our duty to search the premises if she did not produce the stolen property. I said to PC. Jones It is use- less to stop here; we had better commence to search." Prisoner then said: Stop, I will give you the things," and she haaded me the piece of shirting and two black dress pieces (produced). P.C. Jones proceeded to searca the cupboards. I afterwards went to the hosp.tal and found a box there which was handed ove' to me by the last witness, who said it had been brought there by the prisoner's two children. It nust have been taken whilst I was in the house seeching. I opened the box and found that it contained 2 shawls, 40 pair of stockings, and several lemnants of flannel, prints and other goods. Mrs. Pilot subsequently identified them as her property. I arrested the prisoner, and she was bound over to appear here to-day in the sum of £25. P.C. Jones said: In company with Sergeant Humphreys I went to Bentey's house in New Street, yesterday. The prisoner at first denied having any of the goods. 1 was commencing to search when she asked me to (top. She then asked the Sergeant what he wanted, and he told her he was searching for the articfes described in the warrant. She then handed to him 2 black dress pieces and a piece of shirtiig. I then went for Mrs. Pilot, and when she cime I turned out the two side cupboards and sone boxes. Mrs. Pilot identified all the articles (produced). I found other goods in boxes in tie bedroom upstairs. There was a little doubt aboit some of the goods and Mrs. Pilot put them beck. The goods, now produced, excepting those msntioned by Sergeant Humphreys, prisoner assisted Mrs. Pilot to pick out. Prisoner wished Mrs. Pilot to compromise the matter, and offered to pa for all the goods. Prisoner pleaded guilty aid said she was very sorry. She hoped Mrs. Pilot and the magistrates would deal leniently with her as she had a large family and her husband was il in bed. The Chairman (Mr. W. Rogers) said the prisoner had pleaded guilty and the Bench could not look at her offence except in a verj serious light. These robberies must have been going on for a consider- able time but taking into account the prisoner's large family and that this was her first offence the Magistrates had decided to deal with her very leniently. They trusted that these proceedings would be a lesson to her. They sentenced her to two months imprisonment without hard labour. Prisoner, who had been crying throughout the hearing of the case made an earnest appeal to the Bench not to send her to prison. The Bench, however, declined to alter their decision. Two of the prisoner's daughters were in an ante- room awaiting the result and one of them became so hysterical that it was found necessary to send for Dr. Thomas. The prisoner who was quite overcome by her emotions was also in a most prostrate condition and it was with difficulty that she could be got into the omnibus which afterwards conveyed her to the police station.

ST. DAVID'S DAY. CELEBRATION AT WELSHPOOL. Like their compatriots in all parts of the Princi- pality the people of Welshpool celebrated St. David's Day, with a dinner, which took place in the Town Hall, on Thursday evening. Mr. A. E. Bond was the caterer, and the provision he made for the repast was excellent. There was a large attendance of ladies and gentlemen, who displayed their patriotism by wearing the National emblem, the leek; and the proceedings were most enjoyable throughout. The Mayor of Welshpool (Mr. E. 0. Jones), pre- sided, and among those present were Mr. C. E. Howell (in the vice-chair) the Rev. Hilton Jones, Messrs. J. E. Jones and ftobert Owen (hon. sees.), Mr. and Mrs. T. Maldwyn Price, Messrs. W. Rogers, A. H. Jones, R. Jones and Georo-e Salter, Mr. and Mrs. Handy, Mr. and Mrs. Parsons, Mr. and Mrs. Ed. Hughes, Mr. and Mrs. David Lloyd, Dr. Thomas, Mr. T. Parry, Mr. J. Pryce Jones, Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Davies, Mr. and Mrs. Groves, Mr. D. P. Jones, Mr. Rees James, Mr. P. Williams, Miss Owen, and Miss Castlemain. After dinner, The CHAIRMAN first <;><1'1'3sed his feelings of gratitude to them for the honour they had done him. He was exceedingly pleased to see so many of his brother Welshmen, and Welshwomen, and other friends met together there at that interest- ing celebration. There was a toast which he had to propose which stood pre-eminent above all other toasts, and one which such an audience as that were glad to respond to, the toast of the Queen (applause). The Queen had stood in the pre- eminently high position which she held to the honour and credit of this country (applause). The Chairman also gave the health of "the Prince and Princess of Wales and the rest of the Royal Family," saying they as Welshmen were proud to find that the Prince and Princess of Wales were going to support the National Institution, the Eisteddfod, at Carnarvon. He was ouite sure he need not say that they would have" as hearty a reception from warm hearted Welshmen and Welsh- women as the toast would have there (applause.) Mr. CHARLES HOWELL in proposing the next toast regretted very much his inability to address the in yr iaith Cymraeg" and was sure that their worshipful Chairman would have been able nno, far more justice to the toast of the evening on un of his intimate knowledge of the Welsh li^^U]a?e an(^ accustomed eloquence. He • owever that any shortcomings would be charitably viewed. They were assembled to cele- brate the anniversary of their patron saint St. -uawa or (as Shakespeare called him) St. Taffy," and as Welshmen they were all loyal to their Queen, to their ancient traditions and institutions. It had been asserted that on this particular day Welshmen thought a great deal of themselves and were apt to oe tull of conceit, but he would ask why should they not have a due appreciation of their privileges ? Was not their little country Yr hen wlad fy £ iiadau one of the most beautiful in the world ? Moreover they could congratulate themselves upon f .ln"numfcy from crime which had justly gained 'I?.1 the appellation of wlad y menvg gwvnion." Ihe traditions of The old and haughty nation, Tho ,m/vrms', i come down to the present age. ar. old townsmen who had e gallant 23rd Regiment the account W»<- T ceds at Victoria, San Sebastian, and ItrIo; n arJtf a s° they claimed as a native of this tnr. i 1 on t'le landscape painter of the last cen- W \vas °rn at Penegoes, and many others. In anrfw6^ er *otlie tostof talented Welshmen b l l1 T°m? °f the Present day, and how admir- t)ir>m flr °ral SmgerS had recently acquitted F^rfnt3- acrossTthe Atlantic at the World's poet (LewirC™)- W 'h0ir "Sill the eternal mountains rise Like a cloud upon the skies Still from our lovely plains Ascend the old sweet strains home6 mil18' °r plough> or humble The dreaming peasant hears diviner music come." natlcniSA Hf^' 1\owever' *>een always a religious gested a« + h some little doubt had been sug- believp « ? uh°, exlstence of St. David, they might early rpli^ 0 °re a. very important part in the Sted ag,l°«S}llSt,0r-V °f th« country". If they his hisln uPerstition and miracles with which be saSfi^ r;as ]0aded> they might still and devout David was a learned the noor f>?an' fe0kmS to do all possible good to patriotic' c 0m^ 1U munificence, and a country HSpUrrtr, °f the di^ of his of wT i, ounded monasteries, the ministers themspWv were compelled to maintain nrofit f if a"ricu ural labour, and from the ^re^rt^ns to assist the poor in the he ?,„ °?r,° e Abbey of Glastonbury which chmnl t TaS TW Tly a Picturesque ruin. The Cardi J • m k'rthplace, Llanddewybrefi, in to hi? ns remained as a lasting memorial as *i nn'f •m l i1S ijriln 642, was looked upon nrp fi'0'111] loss. W herever, therefore, Welshmen t T ,ere this anniversary is duly celebrated. CMi- IT ri? David's Day thirty years ago he w ) attended with his late father, who djn S the occasion, the anniversary SocieL°L The m03t Honourable and Loyal m«,n K«i° TJ1!) ^r^tons London, the chair- on hei I J? t*ie Prince of Wales. This was stituti!? f° the Welsh School at Ashford, an in- Quppn u i°i finds of which.our most gracious pleasing I een generous a contributor. It was nrofip'io ° a^° to a<3d that some of the most WOT f D promising scholars in that institution and T ia°^i neighbouring parishes of Berriew in +ho A ,u^an" As in London so in America, and thorof lS a? c°l°nies this day was observed, and therefore why not in their native land and native i f ,s education and enlightment advance et them show themselves' truly deserving of the national character. Let them be patriotic and loyal in a common sense manner to all that is good for their country, never allowing any religious or political differences of opinion to degenerate into personal animosity and spite which was so detrimental to their true interests, but by being honest, brave, and hospitable, always true to their characteristics, they could meet together as friends to celebrate Dydd Gwyl Dewi Sant in a rational and enjoyable manner. He begged to give them The memory of their Patron Saint." Song (encored), Mr. T. Maldwyn Price. The Rev. W. Hinton, of Shrewsbury, said the toast which had been assigned to him was a very definite one, and on that occasion one which was very dear to them all. It was larger than clan- nishness and smaller than philanthropy. It was half-way between the two extremes of human feeling. The love of their country—their own country, was an old and universal sentiment. Said Sir Walter Scott, Breathes there a man with soul so dead, Who never to himself hath said, This is my own my native land ? (Cheers.) They might depend upon it that if there were such men in all the world the Welshman was very unlikely to be amongst them (cheers). No one in Europe had loved his country better than he, and under so many difficulties and hardships, and now at the end of the 19th century, when he was seeing his patience crowned with success, he loved it all the more (applause). The Welshman loved his Fatherland, and it was the same sort of patriotism which was inspired by those German poets, who inspired and elevated patriotism in Germany to such a high pitch and white heat that it gave them the victory over the French in 1870. They were fighting not for military glory, but for their hearths and homes (applause). The Ethiopians said that God made their sands and their deserts, but that angels made all the rest of the world. They as Welshmen were quite satisfied with what the angels had done (applause). Wales with its rich scenery was always charming to its natives, and they might depend upon it that Wales would never be guilty of vandalism they revered ancient mounds, and ancient cromelechs, and ancient everything, for it was their historic unity with the past. But it was so small some people said that they could scarcely call it a country and its people a nation. But they forgot Virgil's line which said that the wolf did not care how numerous the sheep might be, and he ventured to volunteer the remark that the character of a nation did not depend upon its size but upon its quality (applause). The Welshman loved his language, or else he would not speak it so long, so well, and so effectually. Of course they knew and were glad to think that the Englishman loved his language and he fondly believed, that like the busy bee, it had gone to all the languages of the world, sucked all the honey, and left the dregs behind. The speaker then went on to say that the Welshman loved his religion. As far as they were not alj alike mechanically made he might say that the Welshman's heart was a little larger than his head (laughter), the Englishman's head was a little larger than his heart (laughter). They complimented each other (laughter). Generally speaking they might say that the Englishman looked after this wyorld first and the next world after, the Welshman looked after the next world first, this world after. (laughter). The Scotchman looked after both worlds at the same time (laughter). They could all say without exaggeration that the Welshman was a religious character. They did not contend that he was perfect in his circumstances nor in his practices. Very likely he had his Welsh God and certainly he had his Welsh devil, but say what they would they would find him everywhere, in his own country and from home characterised by the love of an an infinite God and by the Sabbath upon which he assembled to worship (applause). The Welshman loved his Bible, he was not aristocratic. He had no lords and very few baronets and knights. He belonged to a nation of people and Welshmen, if they rose at all, rose together and he was pleased to see that that their turn had come at last. Every dog had its day and they were rising socially, politically, religiously and educationally. Their young men and their young women were rising. He ventured to say that they had in Wales women who were as brave and as good as any in Europe. On account of the undulating shape of the country and the purety of the air Welshwomen were beauti- ful without cosmetics and graceful without calis- thenics. They did not speak with such self assertion as their neighbours nor in a key quite so high, but they were brave, beautiful, and modest and second to none in their moral and intellectual attainments (applause). He asked them to drink to their dear fatherland. Might everything in the shape of jealousy, rivalry and bigotry cease, might commerce flourish, might education advance, might manners and morals be refined and might their old religion crown all (applause). Song, encored, Mr. Blackith. Mr. R. OWEN then proposed The Town and Trade of Welshpool." He said that according to local history Welshpool was the centre of the talent, the fashion and the culture of the whole of mid-Wales (applause). He fanciel that at the present moment they had not been called upon to haul down their Bag. He coupled with the toast the name of Mr. Rogers. Mr, ROGERS in reply said the Town Council had taken great trouble to show that the town though small was a very nice place. He expressed a wish that their wealthy neighbours would stay at home and make their purchases in Welshpool". If they did this the town would be in a better position. Song, encored, Mr. Percy Williams. Mr. A. H. JOXES proposed the Press," which was responded to by the representative of the COUNTY TIMES," Mr. PERCY WILLIAMS then proposed the health of the Chairman, and Vice-Chairman and those gentlemen suitably responded. Dancing was then indulged in to the strains of Mr. Fred. Owen's band. ANNUAL DINNER OF THE WELSHPOOL THIRD FRIENDLY SOCIETY. The annual dinner of the Welshpool Third Friendly Society took place at the Gullet Inn, Welshpool, on Thursday afternoon, subsequently to a service at St. Mary's Church, where the preacher was the Rev. Llewelyn Jones. Mr. E. Stockton, was the caterer and he provided a capital dinner. Mr. C. Galloway, presided over a good attendance of members. Amongst those also present were :— Messrs. Thomas Gittins, grocer, Herbert Richards, J. Jones, grocer, F. Bluck, J. Davies, butcher, A. T. Gardner, W. Roberts (treasurer), J. Pryce Jones (secretary), Richard Parry, J. Sandywell, John Thomas, cabmet maker, D. Pierce, Llynclys, and Evan Griffiths. The loyal toasts having been given by the CHAIR- MAX, Mr. JOHN THOMAS gave the Health of the Bishop, Clergy and Ministers of all denominations." saying that all of them did a vast amount of good work.° There was plenty of room both, for the Established Church, the Nonconformists and for the Salvation Army (applause.) Mr. J. SANDYWELL, in proposing the Army, Navy and Reserve Forces," said it gave him great pleasure to attend that old Friendly Society, I especially on account of his having been connected with one of the old Friendly Societies of the town, and his knowledge of the vast amount of good they did. The toast that he had to propose was one that was most acceptable to any gather- ino- of Englishmen and Welshmen. They knew thev were entirely dependent upon the effici- ency of both the army and the navy for the pros- perity of this Empire. Deficiency in either branch would endanger national security. Having referred to the loss the town would sustain by the depar- ture of the militia for Portsmouth, he coupled with the toast the name of Mr. HERBERT RICHARDS, who responded. The SECRETARY (Mr. J. Pryce Jones), then read the statement of accounts for 1893, which showed amongst the receipts, members subscriptions £17319s 2d, and a balance due to the treasurer of £14 lis 10id. The payments showed the sum of £111 14s 6d to have been disbursed to pensioners and for deferred sick pay; the sum of £;60 9s Od to sick members, and the sum of £31 18s Od to representatives of deceased mem- bers to members upon death of wives. The capital account showed a decrease of £10 17s 8d on the vear. The statement of accounts was adopted. Mr. W. Roberts, and Mr. J. Pryce Jones were re- elected treasurer and secretary respectively, and the following committee was appointed Messrs. Thomas Davies, Dvsart, S. Withers, Shrewsbury, J. Davies, Plantation, R. Parry, Evan Evans. A. Gardner, H. Gittins, Golfar, Charles Hughes, For- den, H. Pryce, saddler, Thomas Gittins, grocer, M. Evans, Black Lion Inn, and H. Richards. It was decided to subscribe to the Salop Infirm- ary, and the Welshpool Dispensary, as was the case last year. Mr. JOHN JOXES then proposed the County and Borough Members." He said he thought Mr. Stuart Rendel did them credit. There was no doubt about it that the Principality had never re- turned a man to Parliament with the talent that he possessed. Mr. Stuart Rendel had brought Wales to the front, and had carried the Intermediate Education Act and several other Acts for the good of Wales. As regarded their borough member there was no doubt about it that he was a man of very great ability. As a tradesman he had raised, with the assistance of his better half, a monument to his memory. Song, Mr. Thomas Gittins. The CHAIRMAN then gave Success to the Welsh- pool Third Friendly Society," saying he noticed there was paid to sick members, to pensioners, and for deferred sick pay about £170. This showed what a vast amount of good the society had doue, and he wished it every success. He understood from the secretary that they had had a more profitable 12 months than the preceding year, when there was a loss of about £30. Song, Mr. Richards. Mr. J. PRYCE JONF.S, in responding, said he had been looking through the books. About 30 years ago their expenses were nearly double what they were now. He considered they would be in a very happy position indeed shortly if they kept on the same manner as last year, and if all the members would work together and would get their children to join the Society. Why should not their own flesh and blood support them rather than other people ? The condition of their Society as compared with other Societies in the town was most favourable. One Society had lost £174, and another oî more recent birth than their own lost no less than £200, and had been losing for the last 10 years. It was really a wonder to him that their club existed at all considering that everyone had run it down. If they would pull together they would turn the corner, because they did not know what help they would receive from the Government. He was looking forward to the time when Mr. Chamberlain would introduce a motion that the Government should take over Friendly Societies, and when they would receive great help from the Government. As a member of the Fcrden Board of Guardians he was in the position to know that clubs had saved the rates wonderfully, and he regretted very much that one Society had closed its doors because the result had been disastrous not only to the town but to the surrounding districts. He was almost positive that if there was not some alteration, the poor rates must be increased because in that town there were a tremendous amount of people out of employment, and he thought the Govern- ment should come forward to help the working men who helped themselves (cheers). He noticed the Government would furnish them with plenty of figures, but they did not want figures, they wanted assistance. He thought it was better to assist clubs than to pay money in respect of those already on the rates. He returned thanks to Mr. Galloway for taking the chair. He was sure they all felt obliged to him for the excellent way in which he had conducted the business that day. Song, Mr. J. Davies. The CHAIRMAN having returned thanks, Mr. GARDNER proposed The honorary members and subscribers," coupling with the toast the name of Mrs. Gittins, formerly of the Gullet Inn, who re- sponded. Mr. PARRY proposed the Host and Hostess" Mr. E. Parry gave a song, and the proceedings subsequently concluded. +■

OSWESTRY. PROPOSED PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHAPEL.—It is proposed to erect a new Primitive Methodist Chapel at Oswestry, the accommodation provided at the present chapel being too small for the congregation. THE PARISH CHURCH.—The special preacher at the Lenten services at Oswestry Parish Church on Tuesday afternoon was the Rev. Canon Fletcher, vicar of Wrexham,land formerly vicar of Oswestry. There was a large congregation. WHITTINGTON CHURCH.—The work of restoring the old parish church of Whittington, near Oswestry, of which parish the Bishop of Wakefield was very many years rector, has been begun, under the superintendence of Mr. A. Sanderson, as clerk of the works. Mr. W. H. Thomas, builder, of Oswestry, is the contractor. HAWKING WITHOUT A LICENSE.—At the Borough Police Court on Wednesday afternoon, before Mr. E. Shaw and Mr. W. H. Spaull, Thomas Wilde, a tramping pedlar, who said he came from Chester, was charged by Supt. Langford with hawking in the Cross on that (market) day without having a license.—Fined Is. and 5s. 6d. costs, and allowed a fortnight to pay. ST. DAVID'S DAY.—In commemoration of St. David's Day. a special service was held in the Parish Church, when the preacher was the Rev. D. R. Jones;vicar of Weston Rhyn, who took his text, Hosea ii. 14 and 15. He spoke of the chastisements of God's righteous judgment given in order to bring people to Him. A public tea and entertain- ment with addresses were given in the Zion Calvin- istic Methodist Chapel, when there was a very large attendance. Mr. Thomas Jones, of Oswestry presided, and among other speakers were the Rev. T. E. Roberts, M.A., minister of the chapel, the Rev. D. Rees, Welsh Baptist minister, Mr. J. J. Roberts, Bailey street, and Mr. Owen Owen, M.A. A number of Welsh carol and other songs were sung, and the meeting, which was held under the Zion Literary Society, concluded with the singing of Land of my Fathers." THE LATE MR. J. F. WHITRIDGE.—We regret to announce the death, which occurred with unex- pected suddenness on Thursday morning, of Mr. Isaac Fletcher Whitridge, one of the oldest and most respected inhabitants of Oswestry. The de- ceased, who was 77 years of age and belonged to an old Cumberland family, was in his younger days a bookseller, at Carlisle. After taking up his resi- dence in Oswestry, he becanljf the proprietor of Morda mills, near the town, which he carried on for a number of years. He was for many years one of the leading members and a deacon of the Con- gregational Church, at Oswestry, now called Christ Church. His grand uncle, the Rev. J. Whitridge, who died in October, 1826, was minister of the old Inde- pendent chapel, at Oswestry, for upwards of thirty- four years. He was also a native of Cumberland, the son of a statesman (one who tills his own land). The family by female line was descended from that of Anne Askew. He was educated for holy orders at St. Bees, but became a Nonconfor- mist. The late Mr. J. F. Whitridge, frequently con- ducted services and preached at the village chapels in connection with Christ Church, especially at Carneddau. As he had been medically attended, no inquest will be held. Mr. Whitridge leaves a widow and two children, his son, Mr. John Whitridge, being a printer and bookseller, at Oswestry, and a married daughter lives at Devizes. The funeral will take place on Monday at Carneddau. SWINE FEVER has again made itself manifest in the division. The Government Inspector, Mr. Trevor Jones, has daily been in receipt of telegrams from head quarters, reporting fresh out-breaks in the district. In each case he has to pay a personal visit and report the result to the Minister of Agri- culture in Landen. This is as it should be if the terrible disease is to be stamped out. No doubt there will be a great loss for a short time to the breeders in the district, Oswestry being a great market to the Wiltshire and Cheshire buyers of pigs. MARKETS. This Smithfield market was fairlv well filled with beef, mutton, calves, and store stock, but pigs, owing to the new order from the County Council, were but poorly represented. Prime beef of first quality was better sold, and in a few cases made quite 6d, per lb., but second quality was really a drug, and was sold at a very low price, in fact at a much lower rate than foreign beef can be bought for. Mutton, a large supply, and it was fairly well sold at slightly better prices, in some cases it made quite 8d., the larger size sold better than for sometime. Cows and calves had a better trade. Veal, a good supply of first quality; it was all sold at fairly good prices; a better trade. Pigs, owing to the order in Council this trade was quite demoralized, the few offering made fairly good prices—for small kind—say 9 to 10/- per score, but even at this weight there was a most uncertain trade, and it is difficult to quote correctly the price. The Wiltshire buvers having decided not to buy pigs over 9 score iOlb. has caused quite a change in prices for pigs over this weight, and their determination to prosecute vendors for selling foreign bacon under the name of "Wiltshire," is to be highly respected and supported. A few more convictions such as those at Wrexham last week will help the native farmer more than anything else going a present. The Cross and Poultry Market.—Chickens from 3 to 5 ducks, but few, from 4 6 to 6 geese, none offering; turkeys, but few, from 5/- to 10; eggs, 15 to 18 for 1 butter from 13 to 14. A very full market, and a good clearance all round. The Corn Market was but thinly attended, prices were again lower. Wheat 11 6 to 12 per 75 bushels; barley, but little offering, and this principally for seed, at from 19, to 21 per 14 score white oats 14-to 15;-per 10 score; black oats 12 6 to 13, Nothing else offering. INCORPORATION, MONDAY. Present: Messrs. Edward Jones (chairman), J. Richards, R. Wainwright, T. Whitfield, W. Hum. phrevs, the Rev. T. M. Bulkeley Owen, and Mr J C. Bull (clerk.) RELIEF. Number in the house during the forbight-firs1 week, 179 against 174 corresponding period last year; second week. 176 against 170. Out-door relief—first week, £18 2s 4cl to 317 recipients, against £19 10s 9d to 329 second week, JE17 10s lid to 301 recipients, asrainst £19 lis OIl to 327. Tramps relieved during the fortnight 431. The CLERK remarked that the number of tramps was most exceptional. The CHAIRMAN The roads are continally lined with them. The CLERK: Some I am told are going to Welsh- pool to the militia training, and some to Rhayader to the Birmingham waterworks. The matter then ended.

THE PUBLIC LIBRARY COMMITTEE. A meeting of this Committee was held in the Council Chamber on Thursday, the Rev, T. Redfern (chairman) presiding. There were also present:—■ The Mayor (Mr. E. Bremner Smith), Messrs T. Whitfield, Phillip Minshall, Thomas Jones, W. Jackson. W. H. Lacon, the Rev. J. J. Poynter, R. H. Mason, G. Daniel, and the Rev. A. W. M. Weatlierley. The Secretary (Mr. W. Ferrington) stated that tenders for the supply of papers and magazines to the reading room from the 25th March to the 30th December had been received from Mr. C. G. Bayley, Mr. J. W. Williams, and Messrs Smith and Son. On the motion of the Mayor, seconded by Mr. Whitfield, it was agreed that Mr. Williams's tender, amounting to £20 5s. be accepted. The Secretarv read the report of the sub-com- mittee appointed to consider the question of the appointment of librarian, in which they made the following recommendations :—" (1) That the salary to be given be JE70 per annum. (2) That a Schedule of Duties be drawn up providing for the following points (a) Librarian to keep the Reading Room open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (b) To attend to proper delivery of papers to room (c) To attend to arrangement of papers, &c.. on table (d) To keep order in Reading Room and Reference Library (e) To keep lending library open between the hours of 12 and 1, 3 and 4, and 6 to 9. (f) To keep books in order and repair them as far as possible (g) To collect fines. (3) That canvassing for the appointment be a disqualiifcation. The Sub-Committee also inspected the rooms set apart in the New Municipal Buildings for the use of the Library and Reading Rooom, and they recommend that the Committee should suggest to the Town Council (1) That the stone steps leading to the Reading Room from the Pitcher Bank should be improved, being highly inconvenient and dangerous (2) That the room intended for the Reading Room be converted into the Library, and that the Library and Grand Jury Room be used as a Reading Room, the Reference Library and Librarians Room remaining as at present pro- posed. With regard to the proposed salary of librarian, the Rev. J. J. Poynter remarked that the amount might seem very small for such a position, and some people might think that they were rather mean, but they were really going to the full extent of their powers in proposing it. Mr. Daniels thought the salary compared favourably with that paid in other towns similarly situated. It was agreed to fix the salary at the amount recommended, and on the motion of Mr. Lacon, seconded by Mr. Daniels, it was agreed to advertise for a librarian, applications to be sent in by the 21st March. On the motion of the Rev. J. J. Poynter, seconded by Mr. Whitfield, it was further resolved to refer the applications to the sub-committee already appointed who will report to the next monthly meeting. The proposed schedule of duties was next dis- cussed, and on the motion of Mr. Lacon, it was re- solved to alter the hours in the evening for keeping open the lending library from 6-30 to 8-30. Thereat of the schedule was adopted. The sub-committee's recommendation that can- vassing for the appointment be a disqualification was adopted. The adoption of the committee's recommenda- tion with reference to the stone steps leading to the reading room was moved by Mr. Whitfield, who said that a more miserable entrance was never erected to any public building. Mr. Daniel seconded the motion, which was agreed to. With reference to the next recommendations of the sub-committee, the Chairman said that to have the reading room at the very top of the building was extremely inconvenient to the puplic using it. Mr. Whitfield suggested that they appoint a sub- committee, consisting of members who are not members of the Town Council to confer with the Council upon the subject. He was strongly in favour of that room (the council chamber) being converted into the reading room. He thought that to put the reading room at the top of the building would be one of the greatest mistakes ever made, and that to send aged people up there, making them climb long flights of steps would be cruel in the extreme. Mr. Lacon objected to the council chamber being diverted from its present use, and suggested that the surveyor's office would be a very convenient place for the reading room. The Mayor said that he agreed that that if the reading room and surveyor's office were to change places the plan would answer very well indeed. Mr. Whitfield seconded Mr. Lacon's proposition with reference to the appointment of a sub-com- mittee, but after further discussion it was agreed on the motion of the Mayor, seconded by Mr. Minshall, that a special meeting of the Library Committee be held to discuss the question this (Saturday) morning. Mr. P. Minshall said they had nearly £100 in hand for new books, and he would propose that the Purchase Committee be requested to purchase books to the amount of £40. The Chairman said that the motion could not be put to that meeting, as no notice had been given of it. ELLESMERE. SWIXE FEVER.—A special meeting of the Elles- mere Local Board has been called for this (Saturday) morning to consider what steps are to be taken with respect to the swine fever order of the Board of Agriculture. The stoppage of the fairs for the sale of store pigs and the branding of fat pigs is a serious matter for the agriculturists of Ellesmere and the neighbourhood. < LITERARY SOCIETY.—The usual weekly meeting of this society took place in the Town Hall, Ellesmere, on Wednesday last. Mr. A. T. Jebb (president) occupied the chair, and there was a large attendance of members and friends.—A dis- cussion arose as to next Wednesday's proceedings, and it vras decided, on the motion of the Rev. W. C. Tabor, seconded by Mr. T. Williams, to stick to the syllabus and have a debate on Socialism."— The subject of the evening was a debate on the Labour question." which was ably opened by Mr. T. Emberton, of Birch Hall. He spoke briefly of the history of labour from the time of the Bible, of Serfdom, of the Monastic orders, of the regulation of wages by the magistrates in the 16th century, of the advance made in the rate of wages, of strikes and labour difficulties, of some of the hardships of agricultural labourers, and advocated the increase of small holdings and an improvement in the sanitary conditions of their dwellings, and con- cluded by moving, "That the extension of small holdings and the better housing of labourers and citizens, together with the formation of Conciliation. Boards, are the chief points to be regarded in the interests of the working classes.—The Rev. W. C. Tabor seconded this.—Mr. John Hood supported it, and proposed to add the following rather com- prehensive rider to it, And that this society strongly approves of the action of the present Labour Members of Parliament, and believes that the Registration Bill brought forward by the present Government will cause a large addition of working men to be elected to Parliament. It therefore urges the Government to do its utmost to pass that Bill in the coming session, and this society also strongly condemns the action of the Tory party and the House of Lords in causing the loss ot the Employers' Liability Bill, which was *°^he benefit of the working classes."—Mr. T. 1 lains seconded this.—Mr. George Davies and the lion. sec. (Mr. Jennings) also spoke, after which 111]:- Emberton briefly replied.—On the question being put to the meeting the original motion with- out the rider was carried without opposition, while the rider on being put to the meeting was lost.— The meeting next Wednesday will be the closing meeting of the session.

The local intermediate education committee at Festiniog have decided upon the establishment of an intermediate school for the district. They have a sum of JE700 per annum available, in addi- tion to a large building fund.

l'ecollection the events of the past few years and to remember him as the GLADSTONE of old, a man who then had the force and courage of his own convictions a an who stood as the noble figure-head of his party and who, declining to be the cats- Paw of discontented factions, small but Numerous, had a mind of his own and acted as he thought best for the good of his Country. The name of Mr. GLADSTONE will always remain as one of the land-marks in history and although that history Vrili record events in connection with his career over which it would be well to draw a veil yet, even Conservatives can be S^fterous to an opponent and give him Credit for honest, though mistaken inten-' tentionH, Mr, LABOUCHERE, so we are informed by telegram, has written to Mr. MARJORIBAXKS the chief Liberal whip saying that he and other Radicals hold as a cardinal at>ticle of faith that the new Premier must e a member of the House of Commons, fie protests against the secrecy maintained l11 regard to Mr. Gladstone's resignation arid says the appointment of his successor Oeing sprung upon them when the House *Snot sitting smacks somewhat of a cabal, ^yell, we have heard of Mr. LABOUCHEKE before and know exactly how much impor- ^nce to attach to him and his epistles. ^robably his protest will receive as much Mention as it deserves and that is not Saying very much. One thing however we ^.ay l)e perfectly sure of and that is that LA rsoucHERE will not be asked for his ^dvice. He may tender it but that is quite Mother matter. Since writing the above our London Correspondent telegraphs Sir JOHN OWELL, the Queen's representative had an interview with the Liberal Whip this corning and Mr. GLADSTONE'S resignation 18 now regarded as certain. ♦ —