The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

-« THE CAMBRIAN OFFICIALS AND MR. BATHER. To the Editor of the COUNTY TIMES AND POST. SIR,-It is not my intention to take any notice of the incoherent and abusive letter in your last issue signed E. L. Taylor," except that it may be explained by the fact that some years ago I had :o take certain Icgai proceedings against him, aad that, although by my express instructions those proceedings were delayed for a period extend- ing over some months, in order to give Mr. Taylor an opportunity, without inconvenience, of satisfying my claim, he at last compelled me to resort to extremities. But I regret to say that since that time r havè been subjected to a constant I stream of scurrilous and abusive letters from Mr. Tavlor, some of which were, in fact, of such a character, that it was considered necessary, and I was advised, and at last decided, to place them in the hands of the superintendent of police. I remain, Sir, yours faichfuPy. FMDBRICK BATHICR. Morda Mills, January 9th, 1895.

-+ PERSECUTION AT ABERYSTWYTH. To the Editor of THE COUNTY TIMES AXD POST. Sllt,-In my letter published last week I alluded to Mr. W. P. Owen's letter of December 15 in which he commented on the Town Council for not directing disinfection to be carried out in a case of alleged scarlet fever. 1 am represented as writing u The excuse being that no action or proceedings were pending." The sentence should have read The excuse being that an action or proceedings were pending." Mr. Owen's letter explained the improbability of such an excuse, and his statements will probably remain unanswered unless public opinion forces the Town Council to consent to a Local Govern- ment Boaid inquiry which they will greet with a pleasure scarcely amounting to rapture. Yours, &c., T. P. BETIDOES. Abervstwvth, January 4th.

——— -+- MONTGOMERYSHIRE BUTTER. To the Editor of the COUNTY TIMES AND POST. SIR,—Living in one of the largest towns of the county it is one of our greatest grievances that we can never depend upon the quality of the butter we get. Whether we obtain it from a shop or from the butter maker, the result is the same, viz., one week it may be first class, but the next it is not eatable. Now I should like to know why our farmers cannot make their butter uniformly good, as in Denmark and Britanny, from whence we import immense quantities all the year round, and so get a larger sale in the large towns. Is it not because our farmers, and in this case farmers' wives, are lamentably behind the times ? I think it is and I also think it would pay them to look after the little things such as butter, eggs, poultry, &c.. which always sell, instead of giving all their attention to sheep and cattle, which at times cannot be sold owing to the greater foreign competition. I am, yours, Ac, EX-FAKMER. Jan. 9, 1895.

ROAD MAKING (?). To the Editor of the COUNTY TIMES AND POST. I SIR,—May I through your columns congratulate the Highway AuthoriLies on their patent process of road mending, which seems to consist of the following :— Having first of all bought a steam roller, treat it like the Chinese do their Fleet; and keep it off the roads-it might get hurt by the stones. Then lay the stones on the roads in November or December, and let the wheeled traffic of the country crush them in. When they have been well crushed in, or knocked about till the following May, send the steam roller for a trip along the roads to see that they are in good order. After that, let it be seen no more until the same process has been again gone through. At least this is what I gather to be the essence of their theory of the use of a steam roller, by what I have seen on the Guilsrieid and l'oul, Oswestry and Pool, and Shrewsbury and Pool roais; not to mention the streets of the latter ancient borough town. It is good for the roller, no doubt, but how about our horses and carriages. Yours faithfully, VACUUS VIATOR.

THE PROPHETIC ALMANACK. To the Editor of the COUNTY TIMES AND POST. SIR,-Referriug to a letter last week rc the prophetic almanack issued by Messrs. Phillips and Son, I noticed their letter to the Council explaining how Mr. Alfred Ford's name came to be inserted as chairman some days before the meeting was held. They attribute the fact to the error of a subordinate. This probably is the case, for the previous almanack is woefully incorrect in several instances. For instance, under the head of Mont- gomeryshire they give the days of meeting of the County Council as February 18, March 16, June 15, September 21, and December 21. The first date falls on a Mouday and the rest on a Saturday. Now even a subordinate ought to know that the Council always meet on a Friday and that un less Messrs. Phillips and Son are again prophetic it will meet as usual on that day during the com- ing year. I have not had time to go through the other information (?) afforded by this interesting publication bat I havj noticed that the Surrey or of Taxes at Welshpool is given as Mr. T. Rawson. Well, that gentleman has been gone some time and there have been one or two officials in his place since he tilled that office. Further, the days of the Town Council meetings are given as Tuesday when everybody knows they are held on Thursday. These ire but samples of the inaccuracies, but they are sufficient to prove that the almanack in ques- tion cannot be relied upon. It has been principally edited by the office boy. Yours obediently, "CRtTIC."

THE WELSHPOOL CORPORATION AND THE FREE LIBRARY. To the Editor of the COUNTY TIMES AND POST. -on were good enough to notice in your last issue the mistaken policy of the Town Council in calling upon the Public Library authorities to give up their customary purchase of new books, so that the money expended on them might be devoted to the repairs of the flooring of the Museum. May I ask for the powerful advocacy of your paper in preventing such injustice being done to the, or one of the, most successful institutions in Welshpool. About 1,000 volumes are borrowed monthly from the Library by readers of every class, and this circulation of literature is due to the con- stant supply of new books which are annually added to the Library. The books are all carefully selected by the committee, and are considered by able juugos aj suitable to the varied tastes of a community composed of old and young persons. No impure literature or risky novels are allowed on the shelves of the Library. The flooring of the Museum has, unknown by the owners, been decaying for some years—I may 3ay many years—long before the establishment of the Library, and the Town Council took over the building with all its defects by the desire of the ratepayers, and they took over at the same time a repair fund which has been ever since at their disposal. All the initial expenses of establishing the Library and the expenses of the first five months of its existence were borne by friends cf the institution, and amounted to about E150, the late Lord Powis being one of the principal donors. In the hope that you will be able to comply with my above request, I remain, Yours faithfully, W. J. TWYFORD. Fronwvlfa, Welshpool. Jan. 5th, 1895.

THE CAMBRIAN RAILWAY OFFICIALS AND MR. BATHER. To the Editor of the COUNTY TIMES AND POST. SIR,—-I am an old man, whose memory runs back to the old coaching days, before a railway whistle was ever heard in Oswestry. I recollect the making and opening of the Cambrian Railway, and have known personally all the managers, good, bad, and indifferent, that railway has ever had, and inas- much as I have resided in Oswestry during all that period I write with some considerable knowledge and experience. Now I can safely affirm without fear of contradiction that, never during its existence has the railway been so well managed, the public so well served, or the employes so well treated as at the present time under the present manager Mr. Aslett. This I am sure is not only my experience, but that of all the travelling and trading public, and of the workmen themselves. From the official half-yearly reports of the Com- pany, J gather that over £100,000 has been spent in improving the railway, and at least P,8,000 a year inure arc now jutid in wages, while the hours of the men have been uniformly reduced to some- thing like reasonable proportions. And to what is c!itng,- Well, I think there is only one answer. It is due in a large measure to the spirited action of Mr. BVederick Bather. It may oi may not be that Mr. Bather had reasons connected with his own personal traffic, for bring- ing the incredible .t-s the men engaged in the v. kr. of that trnitic. had to submit to. to the notice of the Select Parliamentary Committee, but be this as it may, at any rate it revealed a state of things so shameful and deplorable that Sir Joseph Pease, M.P., then a railway director, and now chairman of the North Eastern Railway Company, declared in the House of Commons that he thanked God that he was not a director of the Cambrian Company, and Sir George Trevelyan (the present Secretary of State for Scotland) also stated in the House that but for the Ection of Mr. Bather, the shameful disclosures made before the Select Com- mittee would never have been heard of. If there- fore any man deserves to have, and has, the devout gratitude of the railway men, and the thanks of the travelling and trading public, it is Mr. Bather. No attacks in vour correspondence column, too evidently dictated by personal animus, whether the scribe pose as ''Fair play or We working men," can dispose of these simple facts. I am, Sir, Yours truly, OBSERVER. Oswestry, Jan. 8tb, 1895.

SHOULD WELSHPOOL DECAY To the Editor of the COeXTY TIMES AXD POST. SIR,-The concluding remarks of yonr corres- pondent of last week have again brought forward the question of making Welshpool a residential locality," and even if, like the fable of the Cat and the Fox," as a last resource, it may be a good one. It is an old subject, but there is no doubt the inhabitants of Welshpool will have to initiate this matter themselves, as it is quite improbable that an outsider will interest himself. The case seems to fit the old saying that God helps those who help themselves," but the town seems to be like Micawber waiting for something (somebody) to turn up who will be so good as to spend a pot o' money here." It is, however, a singular fact that mostly everyone wishes to make money although some will Eip-nd for pleasure, therefore the inhabitants will have to speculate a bit as they would like others to. Welshpool no doubt has some attractions, and visitors would come if they knew about them, but so far the candle is under the bushel." The Horticultural Society endeavoured to uncover the light a bit by advertising the show, and so the town. But how few are those who know about Welshpool, even now compared to those wno don't and might. The show and all other public attractions should be well supported by all those who have an interest in the town as thereby they would be the means of drawing attention to the district and form part of the attractions. -zsolice now tne ral-way companies advertise and otherwise bring forward any place of interest or where they think they can make money. Why should not Welshpool speculate in a similar manner, and not allow itself to be a deserted village in a few years. Visitors speak well of the district, and with fresh attractions would visit it again therefore when a definite line has been settled on as regards further attractions and the district has been made known suitable accommodation should be provided. and good modern residential property developed gradually as required. Then, no doubt, visitors would be inclined to stay, in fact cases have occurred lately where wealthy would be residents could not be suited and have gone else- where. is there not too much of the servant with one talent about ? This seems a great pity, also ihat some of the ten talents are not to be found. Referring again to your correspondent's letter about manufacturing carried on (there is one mill) if wealthy manufacturers were induced to reside in the district they would probably find it convenient to establish part of their business her, Welshpool to save itself must help itself' Rumours are afloat that the Yeomanry cannot find accommodation for their next training. Whose is the fault ? Why Welslipool's Another rumour is that the militia cannot get a shooting range. Whose is the fatil-, but Welshpool's ? Why are these things allowed to occur ? Simply through lack of energy and interest in the town for more than the present moment. The question of trade and prices will also bear discussion—more people and lower prices. Suppose smaller profits and quicker returns were to be tried would it not induce and encourage trading in the town and not force buyers to other places. The proposed Intermediate Schools will afford residents an opportunity, not available before, and no doubt many other things could be brought for- ward. If the Corporation or Par'sh Council as repre- sentatives cannot (P) take up this matter let the tradespeople (who are mostly interested) have a public meeting to discuss the question, and if possible form themselves into an "Improvement Company to avert such a catastrophe as DECAYING WELSHPOOL.

-+- LET DOGS DELIGHT TO BARK AND BITE." —CHALLENGE TO THE MAYOR OF ABERYSTWYTH. To the Editor of the COUNTY TIMES AND POST. SIR,—During the hearing of the summons re- specting my dog, Dr. Harries, the mayor of Aberystwyth, made a statement, while sitting in the body of the Court and not on oath, that if the Bench wanted further evidence he could give a lot respecting dogs that were lame and maimed last week by my dog. I say that this assertion is an iniquitous and I challenge Dr. Hairies to substantiate it. I am sure that ynll, ir, will allow him to do so through the medium of your columns; or I will pay the cost of a summons in order to give him an opportunity of mukiug his statement upon oath, when he will be subject to the laws relating to perjury. Dr. Harries, with two other magistrates, has been most hostile throughout. As an instance of the value of veracity of Dr. Harries's statements, I may say, that on Mouday evening I heard him state publicly in the bar of the Lion Hotel that my dog had bitten off—clean off—the foot of a dog which he mentioned, and that the dog was under the care of a veterinary surgeon. He also stated that my dog had been killing sheep, and later on, brought in a gentleman to support this assertion. Dr. Harries said to that gentleman How niaiv sheep has Mr. Morgan's dog killed to your know- ledge ? The answer was fifteen." And how many has Mr. Morgan paid for" ? The answer was Ten." No, 110," said the Doctor, he has )nly paid for one." A few minutes later Dr. Harries introduced another gentleman, and asked him what Mr. Morgan's dog had done to his dog on the previous Friday ? That gentleman, evidently unaccustomed to whoJesalo lying, blushed and hesitated, but ultimately said that it had attacked his dog and nearly killed it. Of course, strangers in the room believed that the statements, made as they were by the Mayor of the town, were truth- ful statements, and concluded at once that the dog ought to be destroyed as being very dangerous. On the following day I enquired of the veterinary surgeon mentioned, and, as I expected, he had heard nothing of the dog which was said to have been seriously injured by mine. The statement with regard to the sheep was so ridiculous as to be self-evident to all who knew Dr. Harries, and was received with laughter. I afterwards saw the other gentleman referred to, and he said he thought that Dr. Harries was chaffing, and did not know that there were any actions pending. In Aberystwyth people know, but your readers would naturally think that statements made in public by the Mayor of an important town like Aberystwyth would be trustworthy. I have no doubt that the statement made in the Town Hall on Wednesday is of much the same value as those already referred to. One of the witnesses on Wed- nesday was a police-constable, who stated that my dog was fighting at Trefechan, on the south side of the river, at 12-30 (noon) on Sunday, December 23rd. I afterwards remembered that at that particular time I was on the Marine Terrace where I met Alderman C. M. Williams and Mr. James Scott, who told me that my dog was at the other end of the Terrace. We looked in that direction and saw him playing with some children, one of whom was leading him by the collar-as chil- dren are continually doing, for he is a great favourite with youngsters. A little later on I called the dog and took him home. Those gentle- men will swear that the dog was on the Terrace at the time he was alleged to have been at Trefechan which is more than half-a-mile away. I may also say that during the past month since the first summons was issued that dogs belonging to Dr. Harries, Mrs. Hayes, the Misses Cruick- shank, and Mr. Watts-all of whom have given evidence against my dog—have continually been brought into this neighbourhood, as I think for the purpose of inviting a quarrel. The wonder is not that my dog has fought two or three times in a month, as is alleged, but that he has not been fighting every hour of the day. Last Friday morn- mr Dr. Harries's dog, which has a notoriously bad reputation, and is said to have bitten his own child, came across the street to my office door in spite of uh> aii1? of its mistress to quarrel with my ric. and if mine had been in a fighting mood the doctor's dog "ould have had the worst of it. It is an odd thing also last Friday morning a dog belonging to Dr. Harries and another, said to belong to his groom, were close to this office. I may add that a dog belonging to the Misses Cruickshank, which is one of those said to have been attacked by my dog, flew at a man in the street and caught hold of his clothes. I shall be much obliged if you will kindly pub- lish this letter. Yours faithfully, JOHN MORGAN. Observer Office, Aberystwyth. January 4th, 1895.

-+- PANT. CnOIR SUPPER.—On Thursday week, the Primi- tive Methodist Choir were entertained to a sub- stantial repast, in a room kindly lent by Mr. J. Kembic, when Rev. W. Perry presided, supported by Mr. G. D. Hughes. About 40 sat down to the supper, which was superintended by Mrs. Perry and Mrs. Kemble. The donors were Mr. J. Pugh, Mr. T. M. Jones, and Mrs. Hughes, Mrs. Herbert, Mrs. Rogers, and Mrs. Owen, also kindly contributed. After supper, games, &c., were indulged in, and a very enjoyable evening was spent.

WORTHEN. REXT Al"DIT.-On Friday week, Mr. C.R. Moore, the agent for Rev. W. C. E. Kynaston, held the half-yearly audit at the Kynaston Arms Inn, when a good number presented themselves, and sub- sequently they partook of an excellent repast, prepared by Host Juskes, under the presidency of the respected agent, and all thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

WESTBURY. CHOIR SLTPPFR.-The members of the Parish Church Choir were invited by Mr. and Mrs. Cooke to supper at the Rectory, on Friday evening, January 4th. It is needless to say that everyone enjoyed it. Supper ended, various games were arranged and thoroughly entered into by all. I Singing followed by various members of the choir, I and refreshments were passed round between times. Mr. and Mrs. Cooke and their four sotis, and indeed the whole establishment, did their very utmost to ensure the comfort of the guests. A vote of thanks to the Rector and his family was proposed by Mr. Oliver, and most heartily endorsed by everyone present.—Mr. Cooke responded and said he hoped the supper would be an annual one.

LLANSANTFFRAID. PARISH COUNCIL. The first Parish Council meeting for the Pool or the principal division of the parish, was held on the 1st., in the National Schoolroom, Councillor E. H. Evans acting as chairman, pro. tem. Dr. Lewis, a non-member, was elected chairman, Councillor R. O. Perrott, vice- chairman, Councillor Rees, treasurer, and the assistant overseer, and clerk. Beyond making these appointments very little was done, with the exception that the chairman, vice chairman, and treasurer were deputed to co-operate with three from the Deytheur Council in an investigation of the parish charities.

LLANDYSSIL. PARISH MEETING NO. 2. A poll having been demanded by Mr. Andrew Withers at the first Parish Meeting, and the result of that poll being defective (inasmuch as there was a double return for the ninth seat.) the County Council ordered a second Parish Meeting to take place on Wednesday. R- E. Jones, Esq., Cefti Bryntalch. was again chair- man. There seemed to be a general desire to avoid another poll, so the Conservatives did not nominate a candidate, as they have a majority on the Council. Mr. John Cooper, Insurance Agent, was the only nominee, so was declared duly elected. There is no labourer on the Board, the agricultural labourer nominated by the Conservatives, having been defeated at the poll.

LLANMEREWIG. DOLFORWYN CHURCH SUNDAY SCHOOL. On Monday evening the.scholars and teachers of the above school were, through the kindness of Mrs. Lewis-Andrew Glanhafren prcsented with a hand- some Christmas tree laden with valuable presents which were, in the regrettable absence of Mrs. Lewis-Andrew, through ill health, presented by Mrs. Lloyd, Castell Forwyn. At the same time Mrs. Lloyd kindly gave an excellent tea, also buns and oranges on leaving. The schoolroom was nicely decorited for the occasion by the Misses Moore, Brvnderwen. After spending a thoroughly enjoyable evening, a vote of thanks was proposed to the kind uo»i»r«, and heartily responded to by all present.

FRON. CHRISTMAS PARTY.—The annual gathering took place this year, by the kind invitation of Mr. and Mrs. Lew.s-Andrew, at Glanhafren, \JL Friday the 4th inst. The choir, Sunday hehuiaiv, their mothers, and a few friends, numbering ab,iit IK- sat down to an excellent tea provided by the generous hostess. This being over, the children under the supervision of Miss Williams, school- mistress, went most successfully through a capital programme of recitations, &c. Afterwards Miss Nina Hutehins gave a well executed performance on the violin, this being followed by a recitation of The Revenge by a lady friend. An adjourn- ment then tock place to the capacious room over the Malthouse, which had been nicely decorated with evergreens, &-c., for the occasion, by Messrs. G. Davies and Clayton, where a magnificent tree was exhibited and at the base of which were placed beautiful presents for the choir, teachers, and Sunday scholars. These were quickly dis- tributed bv Mr. and Mrs. Lewis-Andrew, assisted by Mr. and Mrs. Hutehins and family. In addition, an orange, packet of sweets, and a bun, were given to each child. Before dispersing, Rev. J. Roberts proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Lewis-Andrew for their kindness in providing the treat and the valuable presents. In response, ringing cheers were given for Mrs. Lewis-Andrew, also the Glanhafren servants, who had contributed so much by their energy and hard work towards the success of the treat; similar compliments were also paid Mrs. Andrew for tlJO loan (If the Malt- house, and also to Miss Williams for the trouble she had taken to teach the children their pieces. The singing of tne National Anthem brought to a close an evening thoroughly enjoyed by all present.

OSWESTRY. THE RICHMOND BUILDING SOCIETY.—An ap- propriation meeting of the above socitty was held at the offices. Willow Street, on Thursday evening last, Mr. Wm. Martin in the chair. The scrutineers appointed were Messrs. E. Davies and J. B. Roberts, the ballot balls being drawn by Mr. W. Price. In the result an appropriation of Y,400 fell to Mr. W. Martin, Coal Merchant, Oswestry. The meeting closed with the usual votes of thanks. THE OSWESTRY ASSISTANTS' OIREE.-Thc seven- teenth invitation soiree Dansante, in connection with the Oswestry Assistants, was held in the Victoria Rooms on Thursday evening last, and proved to be a thorough success, upwards of 150 being present. The ball and supper rooms were nicely decorated, being the work of the committee, and for this object Mr. Wynne Corrie, Prk Hall, and Mr. It. Porter, The Cross, most kindly lent plants, &c. The arrangements for the s-upper were in the hands of Mr. B. M. Led with, and were well carried out. Mr. Tims's band supplied the music, which gave every satisfaction. Mr. J. Parry Jones, Town Clerk, at the conclusion of the supper, said he had been asked to announce that the next thing on the programme was the performance of an original comedy, entitled "A Welshman's duel," by Mr. H. Wilmshurst. He also said how pleased he was to see such a happy gathering of young people, and ti. see how successful these entertainments had become since the half-holiday movement in connection with the Oswestry assistants had been commenced in fear and trembling, some six or seven years ago. In con- clusion he wished them all a hapiy New Year. "The Welshman's duel "was then given, and proved most laughter-provoking, the following being the Dramatis Persoiim :-Mrs. Peterkin, Miss Mountjoy, Sergt. Brown, Messrs. A. W. Sabine, Simon Simpkin, W. H. Ellis, John Jones (of Pontdolgoch farm), F. J. Gough, Robert Wiseman, H. W. Sabine. Sam. F. Hawkins. The company broke up about 3 a.m. FOOTBALL. WELSH CHALLENGE CUP, 4TH ROUND.To day (Saturday) the Oswestry United meet Wrexham at Oswestry in this competition, and the following team has been selected, viz.: Goal, E. Edwards; backs, J. Edwards and A. Grainger; half backs, A. England, J. A. Benbow, and W. Faulks forwards, R. Parry, J. Pierce, L. Benbow, N. Jones, and E. Watkins. The committee have wisely decided to place footboards on the re- served side, which will be ready for ihis match. AN OSWESTRY MILK: SELLER Fi.NED.-YeSterday (Friday) at the Borough Po.ice Court before Messrs. E. Bremner Smith (ex-Mayor), C. G. Bayley, W. H. Spaull, and Dr. Fuller, Samuel Hughes, Stone Louse, Oswestry, milk seller, was charged by Supt. Langford with selling milk which contained more than the average percentage of water, on the 19th December last. Mr- W. H. Bott appeared for defendant.—Supt. Langford deposed to receiving an order from the Chief Constable of Shropshire authorising him to obtain six samples of milk from sellers in O&westry. and the sample of defendant's was one.—From the evidence of P.S. Wildsmith it appeared that he purchased a pint of milk from the defendant in the Clawddu, Oswestry, and divided it into three parts, one of which he sent to Mr. Blount, the county analyst. Defendant said it was not his own milk, but some he purchased from Mr. Williams, of Drencwydd, Whittington. The certifi- cate he received from Mr. Blount on the matter stated that the sample contained not less than 5! per cent. The milk had undergone no change when examined which would interfere with the results of the analysis and the calculation was founded on the composition of the poorest natural milk.-illr. Bott contended that the milk might have been taken from a cow in a low condition, and that milk of an ordinary character would have 85-8 per cent of water, and that there was no intention to defraud. -Fined £1 and costs.

TOWN COUNCIL. MONDAY. Present The Mayor (G. Perks, Esq.), Alderman Bayley, Council'01'8 Lloyd, Whitfield, Lacon, Maclardy, Smith, Tyley, Mason, Bolton, England, Edwards, Lewis, Williams, Ellis, and W. T. Jones, with Messrs. J. Parry-Jones, town clerk, W. Jack- son, deputy town clerk, Wynne Roberts, borough surveyor, and J. W. Thomas, finance clerk. PRESS ACCOMMODATION. The TOWN CLERK reported that the memorial J which had been sent to the Council from the mem- bers of the Press in Oswestry with regard to the insufficiency of accommodation for them in the Court House, had been referred to the Watch Committee for consideration. The committee had not considered the matter yet, but would do so at their next meeting- THE GYMNASIUM AND THE PROPOSED SWIMMING BATH. The TOWN CLERK read the following letters ..Brogyntyn, Oswestry, December 29th, 1894. Dear Sir,—I must apologise for not answering your letter of the 7th inst earlier, in reference to the proposal to convert the Gymnasium into a Public Swimming Bath- Considering the little use to which it is at pre- sent applied, I think that the proposal is a very reasonable one provided other rights are sufficiently guarded. Yours faithfully, HARLECH. To J. Parry-Jones, Esq. Wellington College, Berks, u December 9th, 1894. To the Town Clerk. Oswestry. Oswestry Gymnasium. Dear Sir,—My two co-trustees for the Oswestry Gymnasium are on the spot, and more capable than I am of judging what will be the best course to take. I shall be quite ready to concur in what- ever they decide and I am sure that a good swimming bath would be of the greatest advan- tage to the town. Your obedient servant, M. S. FORSTER. Willow House, Oswestry, December 10th, 18?4. Dear Sir,—As one of the trustees of the Gymnasium I shall be pleased to do all I can to transfer the place over to the Corporation for the benefit of the people of Oswestry. No doubt you will hear shortly from Lord Harlech, and ascertain his views. Faithfully Yours, THOS. WHITFIELD. J. Parry-Jones, Esq. On the motion of Councillor MACLARDY, seconded by Councillor TYLEY, the letters were referred to the General Purposes Committee. PUBLIC SLAUGHTER-HOUSE QUESTION. A letter was read from the Oswestry Branch of thp Tirnrni Qn;Dt" f, fhp Prevpntinn Af r< -u.. j.„ lki •-j V.1. LJ" -_A" VI. VJ,Ue.iLJ LU Animals, urging the importance of the erection of well-regulated public slaughter-houses in Oswestry, both on humane and sanitary grounds. On the motion of Councillor ENGLAND, seconded by Councillor MACLARDY-» the letter was referred to the Watch Committee. THE OPENING OF THE FREE LIBRARY. The MAYOR, after wishing the members of the Council a Happy New Year said that before thev met again as a Council, the Free Library in the Guildhall would be opened, and he sincerely hoped all the members would make an effort to attend. THE CLAIM AGAINST THE COUNCIL FOR ALLEGED DAMAGE BY DEPOSIT OF KkFLoiV A discussion took place with regard to corres- pondence between the Town Clerk and Messrs. Longueville and Co. with respect to the claim made against the Town Council for alleged damage done to the property of the late Rev. John Thomas, in Maesbury Road, by the Council trespassing and depositing refuse and ashes on the land. THE GAS COMPANY AND THE COUNCIL. The TOWN CLERK read the following letter from the Gas Company Oswestry Gas Light and Coke Co., Limited. Oswestry, 14th December, 1894. Dear Sir,I am instructed by the Directors of the Gas Company to say that when they said the price of the lamps would be advanced 5s. per annum each from the 31st inst-, they asked for what they feel sure they are fairlv entitled to, but they never contemplated taking any step to enforce these terms, such as some of the members of your Board spoke of. Any relations so strained between the Company and your Board they would deprecate. My Board would not have asked for the advance if they had not had good reasons for doing so, and they regret that they were not allowed an oppor- tunity to explain them. In Shrewsbury the lamps are charged 64s.; the town of Wrexham is charged 2sj. 9d. per 1,000 feet; and the City of Liverpool pay 3s. 4d. per 1,000 for the gas consumed in the public lamps. The burners used in the Chester lamps only con- sume four feet per hour. It appears, therefore, that the terms asked for the lamps in Oswestry cannot be excessive Yours truly, DAVID ASKIX. J. Parry-Jones, Esq., Town Clerk, Oswestry. Councillor ELLIS said the gas the people of Oswestry got now would be dear at a gift. He proposed the adoption of the Committee's report. Councillor WILLIAMS, in seconding the motion, said a good deal had been said about starting a new gasworks for the town, and before goin^ into that matter he would suggest that the Council com- municate with the Oswestry Electric Lighting Company with a view, if it was thought advisable, of taking over their concern. He merely threw this out as a suggestion. Councillor LEWIS asked whether any steps had been taken with regard to the extension of time allowed the CounciL Councillor WATKIN T. JONES said lie under- stood the Company was practically dead now. Councillor ELLIS said it bad never lived and therefore could not be dead (laughter.) Councillor SMITH said that whilst the Gas Company had done as little as they could, inasmuch as they had climbed down, lie hoped they had not done so at the expense of the Council. As most of them knew, the quality of the gasin town during the past month had been very bad indeed, and lie could tell them that sitting five feet away from two large burners in his own house he was unable to read a book, even with glasses. They ought to have the gas at a certain standard, and compel the Gas Company to maintain that standard. He certainly thought a representation should go from the Council to the Gas Company to the effect that the people of the town were dissatisfied with the illuminating power which cite gas afforded at present. lie noticed one omission from the report which he regretted, viz., that the Borough Surveyor had been given instructions to prepare plans and look out for a site for the new Gas Works for the town. He thought it might have been mentioned in the report. He should like to ask the Suryevor what had been done in the matter. Th° TOWN CLEtIK-You ought to ask me whether it is a correct minute. ThelMA YOR said the matter was adjourned. The TOWN CLERK said that was the ex- planation. Councillor SMITH thought that explanation should have been put in the report. His impression was that the Council ordered the thing to be done. Councillor TYLEY said his impression was that a committee was appointed to report on the matter. ("No.") Councillor LLOYD said he could corroborate what Councillor Smith had said with regard to the bad quality of the gas. On Saturday night it was nothing more than a rush light. He was certainly of opinion that there should be some illuminating test in order that people should get full value for their money. Councillor WHITFIELD said he should like to ask Councillor Smith whether the light was below a given standard. Councillor SMITH said there was no given stan- dard, as the Company was not under an Act of Parliament, The Company could sell them gas at their own price. Councillor WHITFIELD said it must be borne in mind that there was liability of an accident happening. The people who controlled the gas were like other people, they could not always keep the pin straight in the paper. In saying this, how- ever, he was not defending the Gas Company, for on Friday evening there was no gas at all up to five o'clock. Councillor ENGLAND said that some three years ago an instrument known as the photometer was ordered. Why was it not obtained ? Councillor SMITH said the Gas Company suc- ceeded in persuading the members of the Council that it was not necessary. Councillor ENGLAND thought it was quite necessary, as it would save a good deal of time and trouble. He should like to see a photometer pur- chased, believing as he did that it would be to the interests of the town. Councillor ELLIS proposed that the Town Clerk write to the Gas Company complaining of the dis- graceful state of the gas, and asking the Company to improve it. Councillor SMITH seconded the motion. Councillor LLOYD thought it necessary to have something to test the gas. The MAYOR suggested that the matter should be adjourned to some future meeting. Councillor SMITH said there was no necessity for adjourning, as a letter could be written to the Company without waiting for a month. His opinion was that the quality of the gas was a dis- credit to the Company as well as to the town. Councillor LEWIS thought that the statement that the Gas Company persuaded the [members that a photometer was not necessary was not quite correct. On a division the motion of Councillor Ellis was carried by a small majority. SEWAGE DISPOSAL COMMITTEE. This Committee, which met on December 8th, reported as follows .-The Town Clerk read replies received from several landowners, with prices re- quired for lands below sewage tanks, and he was instructed to further communicate with them thereon. The TOWN CLERK said he had not received replies from all the landowners, but when he did he would call the committee together, and then a report on the whole subject could be made. THE SANITARY COMMITTEE. The members of this comuittee met on Dec. 15, when the report of the Borough Surveyor on the Pail system of collection of ashes, refuse, &c., was considered, and, subject to a slight alteration, recommended for adoption. Councillor LEWIS said he had great pleasure in moving the adoption of the Sanitary Committee's report, a copy of which had been suppliedkto every member of the Council. ("No," "no.") At any rate they ought to have been. The report recom- mended a system which would no doubt be a great innovation to the town. Councillor SMITH seconded the motion. Councillor LACON proposed as an amendment that the matter be deferred. As far as several members were concerned they knew nothing about the report, and he did not think, in such circum- stances, that it should be passed. Councillor SMITH said the matter was quite simple, and needed no stponement. The report simply meant that certain things were to be carried out, the scheme being fully described in the report of the Surveyor. After enlarging on the impor- tance of the recommendations of the Surveyor, Councillor Smith said it was contemplated that such a scheme would effect a saving to the town of zC200 in money. apart Jfrom ithe benefits to be derived on the score of health by the removallof dirt, refuse, and garbage. He sincerely hoped the Council would carry the report in its entirety. He trusted the ratepayers would provide small boxes, with or without wheels, and place them in a convenient position for the Corporation workmen to take up and empty, also that the ratepayers would help the Council to carry out what they considered to be a I really beneficial sanitary measure. (Hear, hear). Councillor MACLARDY thought it only fair that everv member of the Council should be sunnhVrl with the information which was laid before the Committee, and for this reason he supported the amendment. The system proposed was an inno- vation of considerable magnitude. Councillor LEWIS-Did not the Works Com- mitteo have the information ? The TOWN CLERK said the matter was before the Works Committee who referred it to the Sanitary Committee. Councillor MACLARDY said he should like to know whether the boxes were to be placed on the street or at the back door. Councillor LEWIS—At the front door. (Laugh- ter). Councillor MACLARDY thought that would be hai d on the householders. The MAYOR pointed out that it was recom- mended that the boxes should be placed in the most convenient place for collection. Councillor SMITH said that was a matter of detail, not of principle. Councillor MACLARDY agreed with Councillor Smith's statement that it was a matterof detail, but thought it a matter of importance although detail. He had no objection if the boxes were to be placed at the back of houses. Councillor LEWIS Eaid that was provided for in the report. Councillor MACLARDY Then why don't we know that ? Councillor SMITH That is a matter of detail. Councillor MACLARDY It may be, but it is a very important detail. Councillor WILLIAMS objected to the question being postponed. If, after the Council had appointed a committee to go into the matter, the Council wished to set the committee's recommen- datiows asidE, the sooner the better they dispensed with the committee (hear, hear). Councillor LLOYD could not see why this ques- tion should be adjourned. If they found the sys- tem did not work they could soon go back (" No.") Councillor MASON said the matter had been before the General Purposes Committee. Councillor MACLARDY It never has. Councillor MASON said he had had two reports. He supported the adoption of the report of the committee, believing that the surveyor's report wns an excellent one. Councillor ELLIS said he had had no report sent him, but what he had heard from Councillor Smith gave all the information he required. The only thing which seemed to trouble Councillor Maclardy was where to put his boxes, (laughter). Councillor TYLEY said he was not aw advocate of accumulating rubbish in any way, and he quite agreed with the observations passed by Councillor Smith. which he thought should be sufficient for every member of the Board, (hear, hear). The TOWN CLERK said the matter had been before the Sanitary Committee on several occas- ions and that in December at a meeting at which eleven members were present the recom- mendations were unanimously agreed to. Councillor MACLARDY said he felt it necessary to say a few words in explanation of his previous speech (cries of Spoken "). He was quite at liberty to make a personal explana- tion. The MAYOR Yes, you may speak in explana- tion. Councillor MACLARDY said he did not make the least objection to the pail system, but his objection was to swallowing the whole of the matter before them. Councillor SMITH rose to a point of order. Councillor Maclardy had not given an explanation. After further discussion it was proposed by Councillor ELLIS that the report be. adopted, on condition that a framed copy of the report be handed over to Councillor Maclardy (laughter). Councillor MACLARDY Oh, that is some of your wit. Councillor LEWIS said the matter had been before the Sanitary Committee for some iength of time. He believed that the ignorance of some people was a bit of a sham (laughter). He was not an alarmist, but this he would say, that Oswestry suffered last year from every class of preventible disease, and he believed that all who did not support the resolution had not the interests of the ratepayers at heart (hear, hear). On a division, the amendment was lost, and the original motion adopted. MARKETS C O MMI.TTE E. The committee met on December 21st. Tenders for hose were opened and considered, and it was recommended that the tender or Messrs Shaw and Gardner, at £12 2s. 6d. for ordinary hose, and X16 15s. for armoured, be accepted. On the motion of Councillor SMITH, seconded by Councillor JONES, the report was adopted. ASH ROAD AND PARK STREET. Councillor LACON asked if any plans of Ash Road had been sent to the Council. This was the first necessary step. He had never seen nor heard of Ash Road. Councillor WHITFIELD said Ash Road was not the prescribed width of a street. Councillor W. T. JONES Where is it ? Councillor SMITH By the old Roman Catholic Chapel. Plans had been submitted and approved of by the Council, and if the plans could not now be found it was not the fault of the owners. Councillor LEWIS said there were no facilities for carriages to pass through Park Street, as there were posts at the opening of the road opposite the Cricket Field. The TOWN CLERK said that would be all right in time. THE PRUDENTIAL LOAN. It was agreed to seal the mortgage to the Pru- dential Assurance Company for a loan of C2,366, repayable in thirty years with interest at three- and-a-half per cent. THE SURVEYOR'S REPORT. The report of the Borough Surveyor was read and adopted. FINANCIAL. Mr. J. W. THOMAS reported that he had collected of General District Rate, 1377 lis lOd, Water Rate zC65 8s lid, from other sources £ 52 19s 9d, and on account of Oswald Road X81 lis 2d. The Council then rose.

LLAJSTtDLOES. ODDFELLOWSHIP. The half-yearly meeting of the Montgomery District of the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows was held at the Lion Hotel, Llan- idloes, on Wednesday. Brother Evan Marpole, G. M., presided over a full attendance of Delegates. The Auditors' report upon the district accounts was received and adopted. The funeral levv showed an increase but the management ex- penses were lower than they had ever been before. The motion submitted by the Montgomery Lodge in favour of a revision of the district rules was passed nem. con.—The appointment of officers for the year was made as follows:—Provincial Grand Master, Bro. Arthur Jcnes, Bishop's Castle Deputy P.G.M,, Bro. E. Bridgwater, Montgomery examining and relieving officer, Bro. J. E. Tomley, Montgomery delegate to Swausea. A.M.C.. Bro:-T. O. Piyce, Welshpool; auditors, Bros. M. D. Jones, Berriew, and J. E. Tomley, Montgomery.—It was decided to hold the next half-yearly meeting at Kerry in July.—A resolution condoling with Bro. W. Collender, of Welshpool, the Prov. C.S., in his illness, was passed with many expressions of sympathy, and in view of his impending retirement from that post we understand that steps are being taken to make manifest the appreciation in which his services have been held amongst Oddfellows.

LLANIDLOES TOWN COUNCIL. THURSDAY. Present: The Mayor (Alderman Daniel Davies,) and all the members of the Council with the ex- ception of Councillor E. Dakin. THE SLIPPERY STATE OF THE ROADS. Councillor EVAN WILLIAMS directed attention to the dangerous condition of the roads owing to the present state of the weather, and he suggested in a resolution that cinders be applied to the different thoroughfares in the Council's area. Councillor SIBBALD seconded ani it was agreed to. FINANCIAL. A printed copy of a summary of the receipts and expenditure from 31st October, 1893, to 31st October, 1894, was circulated among the members. The circular showed the receipts to have been JE1044 13s. 8d. and the expenditure L981 7s. Id., leaving a balance in hand of S63 6s. 7d. Uuder the heading of loan account, there appeared zCS691 9s. 8d. as balance owing from last account of zC264 14s. 4d. repayment during 1894, leaving a balance owing of X5426 15s. 4d. The Finance Committee reported that the amount of tolls collected since last report was 14s. and 14s. 4d. had been paid to the treasurer. The amount of borough rate collected and paid to the treasurer since last report was £ 20 2s. 2d., balance in hands of treasurer, £ 6116s. 4d. Bills were passed and now recommended for payment to the amount of C40 Os. 3d.; the Surveyor's estimate for the month was a. The committee recommended the Clerk to engage the assistant overseer to write out a copy of the new valuation list (as i, basis for the future borough rates) at a cose uui i.u.reuiuB OJS. They also recommended that the old lock-up be let to Mr. W. Hughes at a rental of Is. 6d. per week. A letter was received by the collector from Mr. Stead, Cardiff, asking for terms for the whole or part of Groe ground for March fair. The com- mittee instructed the collector to write him en- quiring what space he would require. The com- mittee examined and found that there were eight persons with two or more rates in arrear, and thirty two other persons with one rate in arrear, and recommended that if these rates were not paid within twenty one days that these persons be summoned. Councillor MORRIS proposed and Councillor EVAN WILLIAMS seconded, that the report be received and adopted. Agreed to. ADVERTISING THE FAIRS. It was resolved, on the motion of Councillor MORRIS, seconded by Councillor HERCOMB, to have 100 small cards printed, announcing the date of the fairs. PROPOSED ADDITIONAL LAMPS. Councillor RICHARD MORGAN called the attention of the Council to the lighting of the borough. He said there were three or four places where lamps were necessary, aid the reason he brought this matter before the Council was because the Lighting Committee had shelved it. The places he would mention were Pengeulan Cottages (near Foundry Terrace), Cwmdu, Old Lock-up, and Rock Terrace. He thought that lamps in those places were really necessary, some of the places especially being very dangerous. Alderman E. DAVIES said that they would not be necessary this present winter, as the worst part was past. The TOWN CLERK suggested that the matter be referred to the Lighting Committee. Conncillor MORGAN said it would be a mere waste of time to do so. Councillor SIBBALD proposed that the matter be referred to the Lighting Committee, and Councillor WILLIAMS seconded. Alderman DAVIES thought the darkest spot in the town was ut the end of Picton Street, near the entrance to Short Bridge Street. The motion was carried. INSUFFICIENT LIGHT. Councillor EVAN WILLIAMS desired the Light- ing Committee to ascertain what was the size of the gas burners in the lamps. He was inclined to believe that Llanidloes was worse off for light than my other town he knew of. He also thought that it present they were worse off for light than they had been for venrs. Councillor MORRIS was under the impression that the lamps were extinguished much earlier than they formerly were. He found that in Long Bridge street they were recently turned out at 11 5 p. m., just after turning out," (laughter) and he understood that the time should be 12 p. in. The matter was referred to the Lighting Com- mittee. PROPOSED PUBLIC URINALS. Councillor RICHARD MORGAN called attention to the necessity of procuring public urinals for the town. He knew they were all agreed that they were urgently necessary, and there were few towns in a similar position Iorespecting them. He would suggest that one be placed near the Long Bridge, another at the top of New Street, and a third at the end of the Groe, near Smithfield Street. He thought three would meet the difficulty. Councillor J. K. JONES seconded it as far as the necessity went. He however was certainly iii. favour of one being placed on the old spot. Councillor ASHTON, in supporting, said it was very desirable to procure them. He knew there was some little objection to having them in the centre of the town, but he contended that that difficulty could in no way compare with the inconvenient, nuisance caused by iueir absence. lie referred to that necessity on market and fair days and i-aid they would be of more service in the town than on the very outskirts. Councillor MORRIS suggested the corner at the bottom of Bethel Street for placing one. Councillor MOHGAN proposed that tley have urinals, and Councillor ASHTON seconded. In reply to a question as to the cost of three, Councillor WILLIAMS said he thought it would, be about £30 or £ 40. The matter was eventually referred to the Sepyen-iii- Committee to report at next meeting. NOTICES OF MOTION. Councillor MORRIS gave notice that at the next meeting he would bring forward a motion respecting the desirability of having a Market Hall or t town. He also gave notice that at the next me ing he would bring forward a motion respecting management of the Llanidloes Borough Brass. Band. &

GUILSFIELD. FUNERAL OF THE LATE MRS. HEYWARD. The funeral of Mrs. Hey ward, Crosswood, whose death we recorded in our last issue, took place on Tuesday, the interment being in the family vault in Guilsfield Churchyard. The deceased lady, who was the eldest daughter of the late Mr. John Jones, of Crosswood, married Colonel Hevward in 1860. For many years she had not been -in the best of health, and had been attended for a long time by Dr. Gill. The funeral cortege arrived at the church shortly after one o'clock, and was met bv the Vicitr (Rev. J. S. Lewis), who conducted the service both in the church and at the graveside. On the coffin, which was of polished Loak with brass fittings, were placed many choice and beautiful white flowers. The mourners were Colonel Heyward, and General John Jenkins, London, General Alex. Jenkins, Cardigan, Mr. Lawrence Hugh Jenkins, Rev. R. B. Jenkins, Cardigan, cousins. The following were also pre- sent: Colonels Twyford and Harrison, Captain and Mrs. Mytton, Captains Hayhurst-France, Westby, and A. R. Pryce, Major Corbett-Winder, Drs. Gill and Marston, Mr. C. E. Howell, Mr. and Mrs. • 2^ l*eck, Messrs. E. S. Mostvn Prvce, Gunley, VV. lrovor, Newport Pagnell, W." H. Hill, Gooldin, T Echnund8) G. D. Harrison, A. Owen Hum- phreys IX Richards, and S. Morris. Wreaths were sent by Lady Powis,. Colonel dnd Mrs. Harrison, Colonel Twyford, Captain Genth, Captain and Mrs Douglas Gaisford, Major Corbett-Winder, Mrs. Mytton, Mrs. Lovell, Mrs. Robinson, Mrs. Langland, Mrs. Curling, Mrs. Beck, Miss Currie, Miss Mytton, Miss Ellen Owen, and Messrs. C. E. Howell, W. H. Hill, Kerr, G. Heath, A. Cowley, and the stall of the South Wales Borderers, the officers of the South Wales Bordereis, and the workmen and servants at Crosswood. The funeral arrange- ments were ably carried out by Mr. W. A. Rogers, of Welshpool. POOL QUAY. CONCERT.—A concert was given in the School- room on Thursday evening, before a large audience. The programme was carried out most successfully. The proceeds were for supplying kneelers, &c., for the Church.

Errs' COCOAINK.—Cocoa-Nib Extract. (Tealike) —The choicest roasted nibs (broken up beans) of the Natural Cocoa, on being subjected to powerful hydraulic pressure, give forth their excess of oil, leaving for use a finely-flavoured powder-" Cocoa ine," a product which, when prepared with boiling water, has the consistence of tea, of which it is now beneficially taking the place with many. Its active principle being a gentle nerve stimulant, supplies the needed energy without unduly excit. ing the system. Sold only in packets and tins, by Grocers, laballed James Epps and Co. Ltd., Homcepatliic Chemists, London." FORTHCOMING EVENTS. (Full particulars will be found in our Advertisement Columns.) JANUARY, 1895. 16 Entertair ment, St. Phillips' Hall, Aberyst- wyth. 19 Trips to Liveipool, Manchester, and Birmingham 21 Lecture, Church House, Welshpool by iiev J. Idrisyn Jones. 25 Trip to London. FEBRUARY. 16 Rnmmagc Sale and Bazaar, Public Hall, New- town. MAY. 9 and 10 Grand Bazaar, Public Hall, Newtown. MR. VAUGIIAN DAVIES S FOXHOUNDS. Will Meet January 15th .Talybont January 18th .Nantoes Each day at 10 o'clock. ABERVSTWYTH HARRIERS, Will Meet January 12th .Fourth Mile Stone Cardigan Hd. January 16th Elgar Bank. January 19th Fourth Mile Stone Devil's Bridge Road. Each day at 11 o'clock. LION ROYAL HOTEL, ABERYSTWYTH. SPORTING GENTLEMEN will find every convenience at the above Hotel. Two Billiard Tables, Four-horse Coach, Tandems, Hunters and Ladies' Pads all these horses have been regularly bunted with Mr. Vaugban vi»cV bounds, and are goou Jumpers. Good Stabling, and Loose Boxes.

DEATHS. SMITH—Jan. 8, Charlotte, relict of the late John Smith, Holly Bush, Welshpool, aged 78 years. HARRISON—On the 9th inst., at Frcnllwyd, Welsh- pool, Dorothy, fourth daughter of George Devereux Harrison, aged 8 years. PRICE—Jan. 5, at 2, Brook House, Welshpool, Queenie, daughter of John Price, Army Pensioner, aged 5 months.

E. HUGHES, TRADE HALL, WELSHPOOL DRESSMAKING IN PERFECTION PERFECT FIT AND LATEST STYLE AT STRICTLY MODERATE CHARGES. Special attention paid to Mourning Orders THE STOCK IS NOW ASSORTED WITH NEW GOODS. Printed and published by SAMUEL SALTER, Junior and DAVID ROWLANDS, at their Printing Office 21, Berriew Street, Welshpool, in the County of Montgomery.—January 12, 1895.