The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

LLANFIHANGEL. PRESENTATION TO REV. J. M. GRIFFITHS. On Thursday evening a large company met at the National Schoolroom in order to present Rev. J. M. Griffiths, late vicar, with an address and a purse of money on the occasion of his leaving the neighbourhood. The chair was taken by Col. Feilden. Under the care of Mrs and Miss Astley, of Aherciro, the room had been prettily decorated with flags, etc. The members of the choir also presented Mrs Griffiths with a silver salver and cheese scoop. On the tray there was the following inscription: Presented to Mrs Griffiths by the Llanfihangel Choir, Christmas 1895." The choir had previously presented the three sons of the Vicar with silver pencil-cases, and their two sisters with bracelets. The general committee of the presentation were as follows Mr John Jenkins, chairman, Ruel, Mr Richards, Rhiwlas, Mr Rees, Tynpare, Mr Jones, Llwynglas, Mr Stinchcombe, Borth, Mr Griffith Richards, Col. Feilden, Mrs Watkins, Borth, Mr Thomas Jones, Post Office, and Mr David Hughes, Pantodderwen, clerk. Mr Hughes also undertook the superintendence of the presentation to the sons and daughters of the Vicar. The address was very neatly got up in a large gilt frame, and was" signed by the following gentlemen Messrs James Richards, F. T. Feilden, John Jenkins, D. Rees, Griffith Richards, and J. Lloyd Jones. The presentation was made by Mr RICHARDS, Rhiwlas, who said that the amount collected was £ 52 6s, and with the exception of the amount expended for the address, that sum was handed to Mr Griffiths. The address testified to the good work done by the Vicar during his residence amongst them for a period of eleven years, and concluded by wishing him every prosperity in the future. In replying, the VICAR said that he stood before them that evening probably for the last time and they could better imagine than he could express to them his feelings. The eleven years that he had spent amongst them covered a large slice of a man's life, and he could not look back upon those eleven years except with pride and gratitude, and the memory of those years would never be effaced as long as he lived upon that earth. From his friends he had experienced nothing but kindness opponents he had had in the parish; enemies he thought he had had none (cheers). He had opponents politically and religiously, but he thanked God that he had learnt to respect the views and the feelings of his opponents, and he had for a long time learnt to love a good character whether that character was one of an opponent politically or religiously, or of one who saw eye to eye with him, therefore he was able to say that he had no ene- mies, and he could not look back to the time when he had harboured anyill-feeling towards any wealthy or poor or any other class amongst his parishioners for the last eleven years (hear, hear). He did not know what good he had done there; he had done a great deal less than he ought to have done he had not the slightest doubt; he did not know what snccess his efforts had had in the moral as well as the spiritual sense, but he could say that night that it had been his endeavour'since the first moment he entered the parish until he left it to do his duty, to serve his church, to be obedient to his superiors in the church, and to serve his God- (applause)—and he could say that night with a clear conscience that he had never by word or deed, or by thought, endeavoured to do the least harm to any man or woman in the parish of Llan- fihangel (loud cheers). As long as he lived he should take the greatest care of the address, and it would be handed down to his children, where it would be an incentive to them to do their duty. Referring to the work done in the parish during the period of eleven years, he said that there was a debt of over £300 upon Borth Church which had been wiped off. There was a debt of £ 79 upon the Iron Church at Taivbont which had been paid. In the year 1884 there was a mortgage on the Vicarage of over zP,431 3s lOd, that had been re- duced to £71 8s Od. During his incumbency over R359 had been spent npon the Vicarage, which increased the value of the living by the sum of -02, to E24 a year (applause). Then again the Churchyard at Borth was not consecrated nor was it enclosed but at a cost of I £ 150 that had been done, and there had now been several interments in the ground since then. In the parish church they had erected a heating ap- paratus at a cost of X65. A fielul of the value of £ 131 had been purchased and added to the Vicarage ,e which would be the means of bringing in £5 or c6 more to the living (hear, hear). Once more he might say that in the parish church a sweet and beautiful organ had been erected at a cost of £ 170 (hear, hear). In the schoolroom a great deal had been done in the way of increasing the comfort of the parishioners erieral lv. In addition to all this the three national schools in the parish cost zE180 every year, and he could truly say that for the list 16yers the average sum raised each year In the parish of Llanfihangel for church purposes amounted to about zC500 a year (loud cheers). He thought that *A noble record of work done there by the parishioners J not by him, he had given what he could afford, he did it willingly and with the greatest satisfaction. The "Vicar then defended AT>^ 1 the criticisms of his conduct re- specting public matters, and held that it was the dty of cl"rvyrnen to look after the body as well as He A CL?CLAI'AT'>on which was loudly cheered, councils RCE;VED TWO RESolations from the parish AND ONE the School Board opinion of the WORK^RT6 T1 exPressiuS a hl\'h was amongst then, 7. 6 VLCAR WH,!ST HE their noble MRL N-0 AGAM thanked them for Mr DAVIDHU?Hir«"TIINONIAI (1°UD CHEER^ Griffiths with the SILVER 0 THEU PRESENTED MRS referred to the valuable SUVER SC°°P' A"D Mrs Griffiths, by WHICH T "1V-°U T0 THE CHCNR B-V second to none in CardilanS6 TS'n" had risen The VICAR RESR>ONCWL 1 RE (Applause). was never so hapnv as ^WH SRUCL'HAT IIRS Griffith choir and she was sorrv TOL^F-LU WAS WIT'U THE noon he had been presented -J?' THAT after- calendar by the little chilldren 'of N, Schools at Borth, which had Y>R0 National their pennies. The TETHERS^ W, PNRCA^ed with with a fountain pen and the HEACFS^ FA given hua a beautiful pocket book -IFRES8 HAD eloquent gifts, and it was gratifVint\N V ° WERE that his efforts towards elementary'^EDUCATTON^ER-L appreciated. were Rev M. WILLIAMS,! Elerch, in the course of A few words regretted the departure of Mr and Mrs «nffuhs, and whilst wishing them every happiness he assured them of a happy welcome on the top of fee mountain at Elerch (applause). The other speakers were Rev George Black well Councillor J. M. Williams, and the Chairman, after which the proceedings closed with the usual vote of thanks. Letters of apology were received from Arch- deacon Protueroe, a. Rev E. Jones, Llanbadarn Vicarage; and Mr D. Williams, Abergeldie Honse, Aberystwyth. LLANGYNIEW. THE Sciioor,The National school is now closed "V FEBRUARY 17, by the recommendation of the Medical Officer of Health, owing to the pre- vailing epidemic of measles. -+- Meifod is now regarded by many as the pioneer in Wales as legards a butter factory but there has been one for years at St. Clears, Carmarthenshire. I I s.

MACHYNLLETR. PREACHING SERVICES.— Rev John Roberts, of Corris, has been holding a series of preaching meetings during the past week in the Maengwyn Calvinistie Methodist Chapel. Wednesday evening, Rev Barrow Williams, of Rhyl, delivered a lecture in the English Presbyterian Chapel, on "Amuse- ments." The chair was occupied by Councillor W. M. Jones. INTERMEDIATE EDUCATION BOARD YESTERDAY (FRIDAY,) Present Rev Josiah Jones, Messrs Edward Hughes, Richard Owen, Edward Rees, Richard Rees, John Thomas, W. M. Jones, Drs Edwards, and A. O. Davies, with Mr John Rowlands, clerk, and Mr H. H. Meyler, headmaster. Dr Edwards was appointed to the chair pro tern. On the proposition of Mr EDWARD REES, seconded by Air RICHARD OWEN, Rev Josiah Jones was re-elected Chairman for the ensuing twelve months. Rev JOSIAH JONES said that he did not wish to stand in the way if there was any other to be proposed. He believed that it was fair to share the responsibility of the office. However, he thanked them for their confidence, and would try to con- tinue to possess it for the next twelvemonths. Dr EDWARDS proposed that Dr A. O. Davies be appointed vice-chairman. He was practically a new governor, but had taken a great deal of trouble and interest in the school. Dr A. O. DAVIES said that he could not under- take the duties, and would propose Mr Richard Rees. Mr Rees was the originator of those schools, and had taken great interest in them. He was sure that it would be the wish of all that he should be elected. Mr E. HUGHES seconded it. Mr R. OWEN proposed Dr Edwards. He believed that the county should be represented. Mr RICH-KRD REES seconded it. A vote was taken and Mr Richard Rees was appointed. Mr Rees voted in favour of Dr Edwards. THE SITE QUESTION. The CHAIRMAN reported that at the public meeting held it was carried to have Cae Garsion as the site for the new school, 39 voting for it. The VICE-CHAIRMAN said that there was a feeling in the town that that meeting was not representative. There was a great number of boys and girls present. Mr JOHN THOMAS was of opinion that the question should not be opened again. Mr R. OWEN: We shall have boys and girls at every meeting. I believe with Mr Thomas that the question should not be re-opened. The VICE-CHAIRMAN said th'at the meeting were not unanimous upon the matter. There were 22 out of 29 against Cae Garsion. Mr W. M. JONES: We cannot expect it more unanimous. Dr EDWARDS It is not fair to count those 22; they were divided amongst themselves. Dr DAVIES said that he had heard several com- plaints. Dr EDWARDS Was there any suspicion of a packed meeting ? Mr THOMAS Not at all. Dr DAVIES I understood that some were asked to come. Mr EDWARD REES I met several who were very pleased with the selection. The VICE-CHAIRMAN said that it was wrong to push the matter forward as they bad five years to go on. They ought not to pash it through in a hurry. The CLERK said that it was five years from the commencement, and they had two years to elapse. Mr MEYLER said that he had lost pupils owing to the fact that there was no prospect of the school being erected, and he could not say how many he had lost through it. Mr EDWARD REES We are deficient of room. Mr THOMAS proposed that they adopt the Cae Garsion site. Mr R. OWEN seconded it. The VICE-C HAIRIVFAN was disposed to move an amendment, but did not wish to stop the pro- ceedings. Dr DAVIES was of this opinion, and he hoped that it would not be regarded as a personal matter (hear, hear). The CHAIRMAN suggested that they should ask for another visit by the County Committee and then abide by their decision. Mr ED. REES Put it to the vote. The VICE-CHAIRMAN: We do not want to push it through. Mr W. M. JONES: The majority ought to govern. The VICE-CHAIRMAN Some people said that they won't send their children there, and will not subscribe towards the furd. (Cries of vote, vote.") I propose that we ask the committee to make another visit. I Mr. EDWARD HUGHES seconded. A vote was taken and four voted for the amend- ment including the chairman, vice-chairman, Dr. Davies, and Mr. Edward Hughes. Dr. EDWARDS said than it was unusual for the chairman to vote until the close. This view was confirmed by the clerk. The motion was then put and six voted for it and was declared carried. REPORT OF HEAD MASTER. Mr. Meyler presented his report which was as follows To the Local Managers of the Machynlleth County Intermediate School. Ladies and Gentlemen,-I have the honour tolay before you my first annual report on the general condition and progress of the school. The school was opened on October 17th, 1894, at 9-30 a.m., when 12 scholars were admitted. On October 13th, an examination for scholarships was held with the result that five scholars were elected. Before the school broke up for the Christmas holidays the numbers had increased to 17. On the breaking-up day the 12 scholars who were present on the morn- ing of the first day were presented by the Governors with Bibles in commemoration of the opening of the school, and two prizes were also awarded (given by Mr. and Mrs. A. C. Humphreys-Owen) to the best boy and girl. On resuming in January, 1895, there were 20 scholars, and Miss Florence White (of the Royal Holloway College and of the Univer- sity of Oxford) was appointed assistant mistress. The term was an uneventful one, and at its close an entertainment was given by the scholars, most of the Governors being present and taking pari in the meeting. The school then broke up for a fort- night's holiday, and before re-opening an examina- tion for scholarships was held when 28 candidates presented themselves, from among whom three were elected. This term saw a very considerable increase in the school, the numbers being more than doubled, and rising to 43. Important improve- ments were made to meet the increased demand on the resources of the school. Desks were purchased with sitting accommodation for 54, the number prescribed in the scheme, and they have proved thoroughly satisfactory. It was now found possible and expedient to widen the course of study so that it should accord as far as possible with that laid down in the scheme. It is best to enumerate the various subjects here. They consist of :— Languages (Latin and French), English subjects, history (including Scripture -history), English grammar, composition, and literature, viz., Shakes- peare mathematics, comprising arithmetic, algebra, Euclid, trigonometry, and mechanics science, physiology, including elementary geology science, physiology, including elementary geology for boys with physiology and hygiene for girls drawing, needlework and knitting, and vocal and instrumental music. In music during this and the previous term I had the aid of Mrs Meyler who took half the girls in pianoforte playing, while she still continues to take a weekly class in fancy needle-work. The musical drill which had hitherto been highly successful and popular, had to be abandoned this term in consequence of lack of room. In May, four candidates entered for the Science and Art Department's examination in mathematics (Stage I.) and the four were successful. In July, Mr Lefroy, one of her Majesty's assistant narity Commissioners inspected the school premises when he was met by several of the Governors and the clerk. Subsequently the school WAS examined by P. T. F. Roberts, Esq, M. A., W;'APALOF THE University College O,' Wales, who intr RND°MT0T WOR^ BY the County Govern- SOMF> report was placed in your hands marks OLITN ,M°I!TL1^LAT6R with a list of the hiehlv FFRITT6 THESE marks are to me personally mar./ of TL YIU"' WHEN {I IS remembered that school a few weeannneCt, had only been in the that a large number of n, observed cent and nvPr ir, pupils obtained ninety per ccn„. aaa over, m several subieff-« time LAM bo»„,l to P.irti that I D" NOTTE! I1"—1- '«!>•" altogether a„ ade- ouat. test of the work of the school. A large element of chance must necessarily enter into an examination in which certain classes only are tested in certain subjects. Nor does the report give a clear idea to the County Governing Body of the amount of ground covered in any subject, that is to say, the subjects are named in it, but the syllabus is not given. This is in my opinion, a serious defect, which I hope to see amended. I may further add that a period of about three months appears to me an exceedingly long one between the examination and the issue of the report. At the close of this term an entertainment was given by the scholars, and a distribution of prizes took place, an event rendered possible through the generosity of several friends and well-wishers of the school. The school then broke up for the summer holidays, for seven weeks. On resuming work on the 23rd September, nine scholarships were awarded by you on the result of an examina- tion held the previous week, and notwithstanding some withdrawals, the numbers still shewed a steady increase, being now fifty-five and rising to fifty- eight at the half term. After consultation with you, I appointed Mr. Albert Watson, B.A., of St. John's College, Cambridge, as assistant master. Six pupils read during this term veiy assiduously for the Cambridge Local Examination (Junior Division), and sat for it in December at the Aberys- twyth centre. I cannot say what the result may be, but it is an important incident in our history, as showing that our County Schools are giving an education that is at least on a par with that imparted in the best class of English Secondary Schools. This term a class of twenty have begun to do the work prescribed for this examination in December next, and three are reading for the London Martriculation examina- tion. Science classes have also been organised in connection with the Department of Science and Art, the subject taken up for the May examinations beiug Mathematics, stages i and ii, Physiography and Hygiene, and the term was brought to a close on December 20th last, by a dis- tribution of prizes, again kindlv presented by Mr and Mrs Humphreys-Owen. The present seems to me an opportune moment for making a few sugges- tions. It is, in my opinion, highly desirable that the local managers should endeavour to approach the various School Boards, and the managers of other elementary schools in the district, with a view to their inducing the latter to adopt some method which will raise the standard of English subjects in the case of candidates for Intermediate School Scholarships. Comoaratively speaki ig, but little value seems to be attached to English Grammar and Geography, and it is a regrettable fact that English History is not taught at ail. The very small smattering of Latin, and in some cases of Algebra, with which the pupils are endowed, is a poor compensation for the lack of a sound grounding in elementary English subjects. I desire it to be understood that I say this in the interest of the children alone. Coming to internal defects, I would suggest the desirability of obtaining sufficient apparatus to carry on demonstrations in Chemistry. There are at present several bright pupils in the school, who would derive great benefit from such lessons, while the cost of the necessary apparatus would be about £7, and no laboratory would be requiied till we moved to more suitable premises. Mrs Humphreys-Owen's proposal, regarding the question of obtaining a supply of books on loan annually from Liverpool, appears to mo to be worthYtOf your serious consideration. The children are sadly in need of good literature to read in their leisure hours, and the establishment of a library of some sort, is one of the greatest needs of a school of this kind. The advantages of Mrs Humphreys- Owen's scheme arc considerable, and the terms are reasonable. A recreation ground has now been secured till March 25th, and I trust steps will be taken to obtain this or some other ground for a further period. I am glad to say that the health of the pupils since the establishment of the school has been exceedingly good, no single case of serious illness having occurred. Finally, in submitting this report to you, I take leave to tender to you my sincere and grateful thanks for the kind support and sympathy you have invariably accorded to me in every matter which I have had occasion to bring before you.—I am, ladies and gentlemen, your obedient servant, H. H. MEYUR. SCHOLARSHIPS. It was decided upon the recommendation of the Head Master to continue the scholarship to Thomas Williams. For the open scholarship two sat and they were as follows John Jenkins Ellis 180 marks out of 400 and Annie Jarman 146 out of 400. Two sat in the school competition, namely: Claudie Morgan 737 out of 1000 and Louis Jones Williams 570 out of 1000. On the literary side of Claudie Morgan's work she was the most brilliant scholar he ever had. It was carried that Claudie MDrgan be awarded the scholarship and the same to Ellis in the open competition. A LIBRARY FOR THE SCHOOL. Mrs Humphreys-Owen wrote to Mr Meyler to say that the Liverpool Circulating Society were willing to supply boxes of 50 books at 35s per annum. These could be changed for other books, or exchanged with the other schools in the county. On the proposition of Dr EDWARDS seconded by Mr E. HUGHES, Mr Meyler was instructed to carry out the scheme. CONTINUITY IN STUDIES. Dr EDWARDS called the attention of the Board to the remarks of Mr Meyler respecting the elementary scholars. Mr MEYLER said that his idea was to have a continuity of study so that the boys and girls out of the ele nentarv schools would be able to continue their studies. History was not taught in the Board Schools and the minds of the children on this sub- ject were blank, and almost as bad ou Geography. Mr E. REES suggested that the attention of the County Governing Body should be called to the matter in the report of the Headmaster. Mr rEYLER said that in the Newtown. district the children knew their History and Geography very well. MISCELLANEOUS. It was leported that the recreation ground was being used by all class of persons, especially the "cleaners"atthestation. It was deCIded to make representation to the station authorities. The com- mittee were asked to look after the hiring of a field for the next season.— It was decided to pur- chase a piano.—Tne Clerk was directed to apply to the County Governing Body for the money due to the Board.-The question of train accommodation was mentioned, and it was stated that nothing could be done until the Board of Trade reduced the order. The Clerk was directed to write to the Manager of the Line about it as well as to the members for the County and Loroughs. The Board then rose.

BEBBIEYf. A GRAND VARIETY ENTERTAINMENT was given in the Assembly Room, Etel, on Friday week by the Newtown Male Voice Choir and Kentucky Minstrels. There was a capital attendance, and the several items received their well-merited reward. PARISH COUNCIL, Saturday, Mr Humphreys- Owen, M.P., presiding.—The extended delivery of letters in the Bryncaemaiser and Cefnypole dis- tricts was discussed at length. It was ultimately decided to make representations to the Postmaster General.—Respecting the saddler's shop, Major Corbett-Winder wrote saying he gave permission for this to be erected because he thought he had a right to do so.—The Chairman;. Has anyone examined the enclosure award ? Mr W. Pritchard I do not think so.—The Chairman I think we had better refer this back to the Encroachments Com- mittee, and get them to look at the award. This was agreed to —Mr E. R. Owen said he had seen the foreman of the steam roller, and he stated that Miss Gough refused him permission to get water, so he had no alternative but to go to the canal.— The Chairman said Miss Gough had spoken to him respecting this matter, and she was under the impression that there was no right of way there. He thought they had better refer this also to the Encroachments Committee, for them to collect evidence sufficient to show that there was a right of access there.—Mr Disley said ever since he could remember, the place had been open to anybody.— The Chairman We must not be in a hurry. Miss Gough states that there is 110 right of way, so we must be certain before we take a definite line of action.— Mr Disley stated that it was the opinion of some people that Berriew Mill was a Govern- ment mill (langhter).—The Chairman: Indeed. Goverment generally are uncommonly sharp after their rights; I do not think that probable.— Respecting the road near Upper House, after a long controversy the following was decided: "That a deputation wait upon the Major, and ascertain whether he will co-operate with the Parish Council to apply to the District Council to undertake the maintenance of the road, and if so on what terms." The deputation to consist of the Road Committee. —♦

There was a decided improvement in prices at Llanidloes fair on Saturday. Among the pieces performed at two organ recitals given at Madame Tussaud's, London, on Saturday last was Mr. W. P. Jones's (Oswestry) March No 1 in G. The organist was Mr P. H. Mull the Exhibition organist.

LLANIDLOES. WORKING MEN'S INSTITUTE.—The annual event in aid of the funds of the above will take place on Wednesday. As the institution is in urgent necessity of funds it is to be hoped the inhabitants will take the opportunity of supporting one of the most useful literary institutions in the town. COUNTY SESSIONS. THURSDAY. Before Captain II C T Beadnell, Messrs Edward Davies, A J Morris, David Jones and John Smout. GAME TRESPASS. Thomas Edwards, Thomas Baxter, and Martin Luther Jervis, of Llanidloes, were summoned for trespassing in pursuit of game in Berthlwyd Coppice, on the Dobllys estate, on Sunday, Decem- ber 22nd, 1895.-Erlward Williams, gamekeeper, said about 1 o'clock or. Sunday, December 22nd, he met the three defendants in Berthlwyd Coppice, and inquired what their names were, which they gave properly. When he came upon the defendants they were searching for game. There was no' public footpath there, and they were in the under- wood, beating. He had previously warned Thos Edwards about taking dogs on the ground, but he; had never seen the other defendants. — Baxter denied attempting to search for game.—Jervis also stated that the dogs were young half-puppies, and unfit for hunting purposes. He never went in search of game when he wore his best clothes.— Inspector Lake said that that wps Edwards' twentieth appearance, having been ten times pre- viously convicted for poaching.—The Court fined Edwards 20s and costs or one months' imprison- ment, Jervis 10s and costs or 14 days' imprison- ment, and Baxter 5s and 5s costs or seven days' imprisonment, no time being allowed for payment. Capt. Beadnell, addressing the police, said he would like to say a few words to them with regard to these poachers, who went out day by dav, night by night, and even on Sundays. He knew it was not the duty of a policeman to act the part of game keeper, but he had noticed men coming into the town in broad daylight with sacks on their backs, accompanied by two or three terriers, and yet no effort was made to ascertain where they disposed of their ill-gotten game. It was a disgrace to the town that such men as these should be encouraged by persons being so ready to pay these poachers' fines, who would resort to any shady tactics to wreck houses, and of endangering the lives of inno- cent women and children. If it was necessary in the maintenance of law and order a claim should be sent to the Chief Constable to station another constable at Llanidloes. The Town Clerk said' he would communicate with him, and point out that auother constable was necessary.

NEWTOWN. LECTURE. — A very interesting lecture was delivered at the Primitive Methodist Chapel last evening by Rev J. Ferguson, the subject being More worlds than one." There was a fair con- gregation. THE LATEST.—The Radicals of Newtown last night held a conversazione at the Victoria. Hall with closed doors. Dancing was forbidden. We regret our inability to publish a longer report, our repre- sentative being refused admittance unless he paid the charge for admittance. We hope it was worth the money. DANCE.—Another of a series of dances organised by the Cricket Club was held at the Public Hall last night. Dancing commenced at eight o'clock to the strains of Mr Brown's renowned Quadrille Band and was continued until a late hour. There was a good company present. PCBLIC HALL.—A most successful concert was given at the above hall on Monday evening by the Kentucky Minstrels when the hall was crowded. The company acquitted themselves most creditably and a good sum.was secured which was devoted in aid of the funds of the Newtown National Schools. THE EXAMINER WAS ASTONISHED.—In a recent examination of scholars amongst other questions they were asked What counties touched Mont- gomeryshire ?" One paper bore the amusing answer:—" Abermule, Forden, Welshpool, and others." Another scholar declared sister-in-law to be the plural of brother-in-law. STRAINED relationship between England and Germany. A genuine blessing to housewives and bakers. English yeast! English yeast! G uaranteed pare. Made fiom finest malt. Safe brand; strong, safe, and sure; 20 per cent. stronger than any known yeast; 7lb. bag, 3s. 6d. wholesale carriage paid to any station; 2oz. Id., retail.—Agent: David Evans, Fish and Game Dealer, 14, Severn Street, Newtown.—Advt. I.O.G.T.—A very interesting gathering of the above was held in the Board Schools, New Church Street, on Wednesday evening, when the chair was occupied by Rev E. A. Fishbourne. Songs and recitations were given in a very able manner by the members and stirring addresses were delivered by Mr A. H. N. Reddaway (G.T., Cardiff), Mr A. David (G.E.S., Llanelly), and Mr J. A. Jenkins (G.C., Cardiff), who attended as visitors from the English Grand Lodge of Wales. There was a very good attendance. R.W.W. RECREATION AND IMPROVE- MENT SOCIETY. The annual general meeting of the above was held in the society's rooms on Wednesday evening when there was a good attendance, and the chair was occupied by Major Pryce-Jones, M.P. The balance sheet, which was read by Mr T. Meredith (bon. treasurer), was passed as were also the reports of the general committee and the sec- tianal committees which were read by Mr J. M. Jones (hon. sec). A vote of thanks was given to Mr Ashwoith for his services in conducting the French class during the last year. Mr ASHWORTH suitably responded. A vote of thanks to the committee and officers was also passed on the motion of the Chairman. The CHAIRMAN, in reviewing the society's history for the last year, observed; that the balance in hand was now larger than it was that time last year, and the reserve fund stood at a very substan- tial sum. That in addition to the amount of money invested in the circulating library and the various properties belonging to the numerous sec- tions of the society was very favourable. He be- lieved that a debating class in connection with the society would be a very popular means of spending few evenings during the year and it would certainly be a great acquisition to those who had a taste for that pastime. He threw out that suggestion to the general committee. He was very pleased to announce that night, that it had now been decided to build a row of houses, eight in number, on the New Road on a piece of ground belonging to Sir Pryce. He was glad to say that the plans had been approved of by Sir Pryce, were well arranged, and provided good accommodation, including a bath room, and that in a very short time the houses would be proceeded with, and he hoped before the end of the year that they would foe com- pleted and would give satisfaction to those who would be living in them. Newtown had as far as landlords were concerned, been reaping a good harvest in the way of rents. He did not know of a town where the rents of houses for the work- ing classes were so high in comparison with the accommodation offered as Newtown. He washopin°- that even the small addition of eight new houses would not only be the means of giving to those who occupied them better value at a reasonable rent, but also that it would be the means of lower- ing the rents of some of the high rented houses in the iown (cheers). He was very pleased to be the channel to convey that information from Sir Pryce that night (cheers), Mr T. MEREDITH, in proposing a, vote of thanks to the Chairman, stated that he (the Mayor) had been present at everyone of the society's annual meetings since its formation and of which he was the founder (cheers). His speech that night was not a speech for the occasion as j Major Pryce-Jones had the questions affecting the welfare of the society continually before him. Mr R. ROBERTS seconded the motion and stated that Major Pryce-Jones was the best friend the society had got (cheers). This motion was of course carried unanimously, and another vote of thanks to the honorary sub- scribers was also carried. -+--

THE SUNDERLAND ELECTION PETITION. Judgment was given in the Sunderland election petition trial on Thursday. Baron Pollock and IVIr. Justice Lawrance agreed that Mr Storey had failed to make out his case against Mr. Doxford, and the petition was dismissed with costs. Mr. Justice Lawrance remarked, in reference to the manner in which the election had been conducted, that in a working-class constituency like that of Sunderland they could not always fight with kid gloves. The number of deaths in the Welsh colliery dis- aster is now estimated at 56.

MONTGOMERY. TOWN COUNCIL. THURSDAY. Present: The Mayor (Councillor E R James), Councillors E Williams, A Graham, and W Jones, with Mr C S Pryce (town clerk), Messrs W P Hole (borough surveyor), and R Tomley (inspector). THE LATE PRINCE HENRY OF BATTENBERG. The MALT OR observed that before the commence- ment of business it would be well for him to state that concerning the sad bereavement which had attended our beloved Queen and the Princess Beatrice by the death of Prince Henry of Batten- berg, he forwarded to Her Majesty the Queen, after consulting with some of the Councillors, a letter of condolence on behalf of himself and the Corporation, and he had received the following telegram in reply: —"The Queen and Princess Beatrice wish to thank the Mayor and Corporation of Montgomery for their kind message of sympathy and condolence.—BIGGE." He (the Mayor) thought the matter should be recorded on the minutes.— Agreed to. FOOTPATHS. The MAYOR stated that with regard to the footpaving he asked the Surveyor to prepare at his earliest convenience a rough estimate of the cost of paving the footways—say Broad street and Castle street. They might then borrow the money required for the work and spread the loan over a few years In the meantime he moved that the matter be adjourned.—Agreed to. STREET LIGHTING. The CLERK reported that he had written to the County Authorities concerning the erection of a lamp near the Police Station, but he had not yet received a reply.—The matter was allowed to stand over. ALLOTMENTS. The MAYOR reported that he had had an inter- view with Lord Powis's agent concerning the question of allotments, and Mr. Addie informed him that he could find land for two of the four applicants. This was a voluntary act on the part of Lord Powis, and he was much obliged to his lordship for mooting them so handsomely. THE WATER SUPPLY. The BOROUGH SURVEYOR, in replying to the MAYOR, said the work of laying the water supply to the National Schools had commenced, and would soon be completed. LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1894. The CLERK read the following letter dated January 17th, 1896, which he had received from the Local Government Board: "I am directed by the Local Government Board to advert to your letter of the 28th October last with reference to the application of the Town Council of Montgomery for the issue of an order, pursuant to section 33 of the Local Government Act, 1894, investing them with inter alia, the powers of a parish council under sections 9 and 10 of that Act of acquired land for allotments. As regards the application for the powers of section 9 I am to point out that by sub- section 3 of that section these powers may already in certain circumstances be made applicable for allotment purposes at the instance of the Town Council. With reference to the application for the powers of section 10 I am to refer the Town Council to the power of hiring land for allotments which they already possess under the Allotments Act, 1887, and to request that the Board may be fully informed of the reasons for seeking the powers of this section. If the Council have in con- templation any definite scheme for the hiring of land for allotments fcr which it is anticipated that the powers of the section will be required, the Board should be furnished with full particulars as to such scheme and with information as to the reasons for considering the powers which the council already possess to be insufficient. I am, &c., ALFRED D. ADRIAN, assistant secretary." He (the clerk) thought there were better facilities under the Act of 1894 and though they had no special reason to ask for them, still he did not see why they should not have them. The Council resolved to apply for the powers of Parish Councils under the Act of 1894. ELECTION OF AUDITORS. The CLERK formally reported that the election of auditors would take place on the 1st March. This was all the business of public interest. COUNTY PETTY SESSIONS. THURSDAY. Before Capt Owen Johnes (in the chair), and Mr E. 11. James. SCHOOL CASES. The following cases were dealt with against parents for neglecting to comply with the statute by sending their children regularly to school David Williams, labourer, of Green lane, Llandyssil, adjourned for a month Jane Corfield, Old Church- stoke, dismissed with a caution; William Lewis, farmer, of Rolver, Castlewright, two cases, fined 2s 6d and costs, the fine not to be enforced if the children attended better during the next month; and Francis Ridge, Marsh Hyssington, labourer, adjourned for a month.—The last case was proved by Mr Isaac Lewis, school attendance officer, Bishop's Castle Union Mr Robert Tomley proving the others. ALLEGED ASSAULT. Samuel Wood, labourer, of Lower Mount cottage, Montgomery, was summoned by his wife Mary Jane Wood for assault.—The prosecutrix did not appear, and the defendant said his wife did not intend to give evidence against him.—The Chair- man said they did not approve of summonses being issued, and then withdrawing them. The case would be adjourned, and in the meantime the prosecutrix would be subpeened to appear. The woman subsequently appeared, and asked per- mission to withdraw the summons, the defendant being dismissed with a caution. AX UNUSUAL APPLICATION. Thomas Powell, of Newtown, who was some time ago fined £2 and costs or in default a month's im- prisonment, appeared before the Bench and applied to have the sum of £1, which he paid on account refunded, as through the other £ L not being paid he was sent to prison where he served the month -P.C. Price said it was a new thing in his experi. ence When Powell was fined, he paid the £1, and said the balance would be paid by a friend of his It was, however, not paid, and 118 was sent to prison, but was not put to hard labour in conse- quence or his having paid part of the fine-The Bench said they would take time to consider the matter, as a question of law WAS eoncerned- Powell said ne had an order from the authorities at Shrewsbury that he was to apply at that Court for the money. BEITWS. THE DEATH OF H.R.II. PRINCE HENRY OF BAT- TENBERG.—A memorial service was held in the iansh Church on Sunday evening. Rev W. iwynne-v aughan, vicar, preached to a full con- gregation from 1 Sam. xxi. ch., latter part of verse 8; "The King's business required haste." In the course of his remarks the rev. gentleman said As A^ loyal citizen and a dutiful parish priest he felt that IIE must hold this memorial service, for every British heart throughout the length and breadth of the Empire sympathised at this moment with our beloved Queen and the widowed Princess. Our Queen's business required haste to put down rising and rebellion and to make it impossible for the savage custom of human sacrifice in a distant land to be perpetuated. Prince Henry of Battenberg volunteered to go with the battalion which had been sent out. Malarial fever attacked him in the deadly African marshes; he was stricken down and lost his life whilst serving his country, yea, and the cause of Christ. The expedition was for a noble cause and God blessed it. It succeeded without shedding a drop of blood and without firing a single shot. Yet death claimed the Prince as its victim, and the Royal Family had been plunged in the deepest grief owing to this sudden and unexpected death of the volunteer Prince. Ap- propriate hymns were sung from Ancient and Modern, Nos. 289,. 399, 400 and 401. After the Recession hymn 541 We are soldiers of Christ," the organist played The Dead March in Saul." THE RUMMAGE SALE ill aid of the New School was held yesterday (Friday) at the Schoolroom, and was opened in the unavoidable absence of Mrs. Lewis- Andrew, by Mrs. Swettenham.—The Vicar, Rev. W. Gwynne Vaughan, introducing Mrs. Swettenham, said :—The moment has now arrived to open this Rummage Sale, organized by enthusiastic friends in aid of our New School and Schoolhouse. I so often find this new school to be a crushing responsibility that I hope the present effort will tend to consider- ably reduce my anxiety. The sale was to have been opened by Mr. Lewis-Andrew, but I regret very much that she is unable to be present, but I regret still more the cause of her absence, namely, the serious illness of Mrs. Lewis-Andrews. But in her unavoidable absence, a lady has very kindly stepped into the breach and willingly acceded to my request to open thesale. I now call upon Mrs Swettenham to open the proceedings. Mrs. Swettenham said :— I have much pleasure indeed in complying with the request of our Vicar, and wish it had been a much less serious cause that had kept Mrs. Lewis-An for away. 1. now declare this rummage sale ope at business.—There was a crowded attendance, D the time of going to press we are unable to the nett proceeds. The stalls were presided OY (No. 1) Ihe Vicar and the Misses Swettenhaaa 1, 2) Mrs. Gwynne Vaughan, Mrs, Swettenhain Mrs. EL well. The Rummage Stall, by MISS G of Highgate, and the Misses Pryce, Bettws HAD- Refreshment Stall, by Mrs. Jones, of Cwmdoc and Mrs. Rogers, of Biyncoch.

LATEST INTELLIGENCE. [BY TELEGRAM.] FRIDAY AFTERN00^1' HAGGERSTON ELECTION PETITION- The hearing of the, Haggerston election PET^E was resumed to-day. Mr Willis withdrew charges as to payment of election expenses wise than in the presence of the election ag He might, however, have to rely on the POINT prove Protheroe's agency. Evidence was then given that Protheroe P l' tbe, suaded a voter to personate his deceased fa ted and another witness deposed that he also the father at Haggerston of a man wearing LO^ colours. died William Piatt, costermonger, whose father two years ago, swore that Mr Lowles told HIO1 „ could vote, and asked him to "shove in A V for him,, and witness did so. After evidence had been given as to election expenses, the hearing was agaIn journed. LORD MILTON KILLED WHILST HUNTI^ The Press Association's Doncaster correspo0 telegraphs :—The Chief Constable of the police, reports that this morning as Lord was riding over Swinton Railway Bridge, a Rotherham, a train came through, causing HIS to shy and throwing his lordship over the Paroo of the bridge on to the rails. When reached, La Milton was dead. MURDER OF A PARAMOUR. Elizabeth Ann Bailey, was this morning dered by Thomas William Cripps, her PARAOI who cut her throat in a street at Notting Cripps is in custody. THE SUNDERLAND PETITION- Sir. Storey is preparing an address to his townsmen in Sunderland, in which he the opinion that the Judges' decision on HIS E tion petition knocks the bottom out" recent Act and makes it valueless. It IS A° stood that the case will be mentioned on assembly of Parliament. AFFAIRS IN THE TRANSVAAL. A furtner telegram received at the COLO^ Office from Sir Hercules Robinson states THA^ • Itr the wounded at Krugersdorp are doing FAIR1/ arry and are on the way to recovery. Capt. uS, shot through the spine and his condition is serlo while Barrow and Hawes are reported as HAVING leg apiece amputated. The following eleor patients are leaving for Volkscrust to-day F Coventry, Fyrie, Poulter, Phillirick, Barnes, McVitty, Pomeroy, Wilson, Denton, and Cooper. THE COLLIERY DISASTER. About 30,000 miners in the Rhondda SFL J pended work to-day to attend the funerals of the victims of the Tylorstown explosion. THE LATE PRINCE HENRY- Sir Walter Parratt left Windsor to-day Osborne to arrange for the musical portion of service at Prince Henry's funeral. The Press Association informed that Prince and Princess of Wales, accompanied BY Duke of York and Princesses Victoria and will leave Sandringham for Osborne on MON next, and will remain there for the funeral.

THE ALLEGED RUSSO-TURKLS# TREATY. The report that Russia had concluded an off and defensive alliance with the Sultan AND subsequent and somewhat contradictory ASSERT1 that a general partition of the Ottoman EMPIRELI^L been agreed upon are both declared by the J°ULFLJ de St. Petersbourg" to be entirely DESTITN^E foundation.

THE ASHANTI EXPEDITION- The various detachments of the Ashanti f peditionary force are arriving in rapid succe9S AC on the coast. The native levies are being V ott, and the white troops will be brought BAC IJ England as quickly as possible—before, it MAY be, the whole of them have been able to cotnprELIE why they went to Coomassie. -+-

FORTHCOMING EVENTS Announced in our Advertising Columns- FEBRUARY. J 3 Audit of Accounts of the MACHYNLLETH J*0 District Council. 6 SALE OF VALUABLE TIMBER, ROYAL OAK 3° WELSHPOOL, BY MESSRS. MORRIS, MARSHALL* Poole. R0, 7 Sale at Tynycoed, LLANYBLODVVELL, by MeS WHITFIELD AND SONS. ^9, 13 SALE OF THINGS NEW AND OLD AT THE VIC*'0 Rooms, Oswestry. ifi 15 Property Sale at the Wynnstay Hotel, LlaIJ by Sir. Jehu. MARCH. 4 Llanidloes Ploughing Matches. 5 Eisteddfod at Llansantffraid. 11 to 13, and 17 to 19 Great March Horse SALE Wrexham, by Mr. Frank Lloyd.

BIRTHS, MARRIAGES, Ai]) DEA TIIS. DEATHS. EVANs-January 20, at the Cross Lane, Berrie Edward Evans, aged 78. eocb, EVANs-January 12, Margaret Evaus, Cefn Llanrhaiadr, aged 88. eg, JONEs-January 23, John Harold, son of Jolln Dolphin Hotel, Llanymynech, aged 12 days- .G3( I LEWIS—January 21,at Penthryn, Llandriuio, Loa youngest daughter of James and Alice LE aged 25. eryst- LEWIS—January 17, at inortligate Street, Ab r of wytli, Elizabeth (Mrs Lewis) eldest hter Mrs Benbow, formerly of Rose Cottage, Caer aged 50. RU- PUGH—January 24, at Plas Rhiwsaeson, mair, Mary, wife of Lewis Pugh, aged 75.

E. TRADE HALL, WELSHP 00 D.EESS.HAKING IN PERFECTION! PERFECT FIT AND LATEST STRICTLY MODERATE CHARGES. NRD^9 Special attention paid to Mourning U THE STOCK IS NOW ASSORTFJP WITH NEW GOODS. R Lid Printed and published by SAMUEL S.rF-g DAVID ROWLANDS, at their Printing ut1 0 21, Berriew Street, Welshpool, in the oun tVlr Montgomery. Also published by Y SPENCER, at their Branch Office, U0TY 0 House Street, Aberystwyth, in the ->° Cardigan.—February 1, 1896.