The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

THE deepest regret will everywhere be foli. at the decease of Colonel R. J. HARRISON, which took place at his residence, Caerhowel, on Saturday evening last, in his 44th year. By his death the public life of Montgomeryshire has suffered another heavy loss, the appointments he held being numerous, and. his clear judgment made him respected by all. He was a man anxious to conscientiously fulfil all the duties imposed upon him, and he recognised that, as a large landowner, he had many responsibilities towards the public, which he faithfully discharged. In addition to this, Colonel HARRISON took a deup interest in the affairs of the county, and lie was always glad to use his influence and services in furthering public movements. He was a steady and consistent Conserva- tive, whose name was always a pillar of strength to the cause in Montgomeryshire. The fact that the gallant Colonel was un- able during the last year to take a prominent part in general public affairs by no means lessoned the high consideration in which he was held, or the great influence which he wielded, if in a more private manner, in the county, and in the business of which his sound judgment and great experience were of the highest value. His death can hardly, until the past week, be said to have been at all expected, but no doubt the effects of the attack which he had overcome earlier in the spring had greatly weakened the vital energies, and his condi- tion only quite recently gave rise to the greatest anxiety. Just now it is the per- sonal qualities of the late Colonel thai will bo mostly dwelt upon in these respects his kindly and generous spirit in all the rela- tions of life will be fully acknowledged and be well and long remembered. Politically, he had not of late been especially active in public, and the last occasion on which, we believe, he displayed his concern in such matters was when he presided over a meeting in the Schoolroom, Churchstoke, at which the other principal speaker was Mr. R. W. WILLIAMS-WYNN, the Conservative candi- date for the county. Although on that occasion evidently not physically strong, the Colonel was clear and emphatic. His friends could at all times thoroughly rely upon him; and, as was testified by the attend- ance at the recent rejoicings in celebra- tion of the coming-of-age of his eldest son during the three weeks prior to his de- mise, they were numerous. The death of Colonel HARRISON cannot certainly be deemed, on every ground, as other than a great public loss, both in and outside the county.

-+-- NORTH WALES has this week been favoured with a visit from the British Dairy l armers Association, and among the places visited was Welshpool, where they were accorded a most hearty reception on behalf of the Mayor and Corporation by Captain D. H. MYTTON. It was gratifying to notice among those present at the opening meet- ing of the conference in the Town Hall on Tuesday some of the leading farmers in the locality, but still many of those who were expected to be, and ought to have been present, were conspicuous by their absence, and this is evidence of the luke-warm sup- port those who cry most about the depression in agriculture extend to efforts made for the welfare and future prosperity of the agricultural industry. Experience will teach them that if they are to keep up with the times, and to successfully compete with foreigners who, by their industry and foresight, have snatched the trade from the British farmer, they must be up and doing, educating themselves with what science has to teach them, as well as endeavouring to learn the demands of those whom they naturally expect to be their customers. If they neglect to avail themselves of the opportunities afforded them in the present day they have only themselves to blame when they feel the pinch of the foreign intruder. A two-fold purpose is effected by the visit of a conference like that of the British Dairv Farmers' Association. On the one hand it encourages an influx of dairying experts into the district visited, and thus affords the local farmers an opportunity of comparing notes and exchanging views with men interested in the dairying industry in various parts of the country. On the other hand special facilities of inspection are accorded to the visitors, who are thereby enabled to pick up useful suggestions, and to acquire information, much of which may be susceptible of practical and profitable application. At the conference on Tuesday we heard the old story about the best mode of improving the sale of our dairy produce rendered ever new. In order to find customers for produce made at home, we were again informed that what was required was a regular and uniform supply. This is all very well if farmers will only find the means to the end. But will they ? The best way of attaining this isby putting into practise the valuable advice of the Earl of Powis in his presidential address, when he thoughtfully observed that farmers should combine, and his lords nip was supported in this theory by Mr. W. FORRESTER ADDIE in the course of a most interesting paper upon "The Dairy Farming of Montgomeryshire, with sugges- tions as to its improvement." He finds that the best mode of remedying the evils of low prices and an inferior article is by co-operation in manufacturing and marketing, and that until there is a thorough awakening to the needs of making a better article that the improve- ment which is so desirable to cope with foreign competition and to obtain better prices will not take place. This brought him to the importantquèRtion of uniformity, and his opinion of the best plan of dealing with this is by a modification of the factory system, either by purchasing the milk or by buying the butter unsalted and grading it as is done in Normandy—in blending houses. This expression of opinion was endorsed by such eminent authorities in the farming world as Professor LOXG, Mr THOMAS RIGBY, and Mr WILSON (Llanelly), whilst it has also on previous occasions been advanced in these columns. The suggestion, of course, raises several minor questions, but they were so satisfactorily dealt with in the course of Mr ADDIE'S paper (which we publish in full in another column) that we will not attempt to refer to them here, save that should the farmers in their wisdom ultimately resolve upon adopting the blending.- house system, they cannot do better than adopt the idea thrown out by Mr ADDIE, vf utilising the disused corn mills and other buildings with water power in the county, which, as he truly remarked, might be devoted to such a purpose as he sketched out. It is generally hoped that the resuscitation of the .t-ociet;. will do suinu LLtle towards improving I the agricultural industry in this county, and we would suggest to the executive com- mittee the deMrauility of their taking the initiative in this important matter of dairy- ing, and it they will only make a start and give the small fanners—for it is they who feel the depression the most keenly a lift over the stile as it were, there is no doubt but that much good will result from their efforts. Societies such as this can do a I great deal towards benefitting the particu- lar industry they represent by making the first move, and if some practical result follows any efforts they may make in the direction we have indicated, it will show that they will not have laboured in vain. -+-

NorrES BY THE WAY. n: ■' lo that it was originally intended that the usual three companies should constitute the firing party at the funeral of the late Colonel Harrison, but owing to its being impossible to get so many in the churchyard, the mini her had Lo be reduced to 60. iSouic months ago, at the instigation of Arch- deacon Thomas, a movement was set on fcot for the restoration of Kodney's pillar. An amount of sufficient f^r the purpose, was, we under- stand, collected, but we do no;, see that anything has yet been done. We shall be glad to hear that t the matter is being proceeded with. V Mr. Bircham attended the last meeting of the Aberystwyth Board of Guardians and complimented the Board on the position the Union held amongst the rest of the Unions of the Principality. There was a considerable decrease in the number of inmates tf Le workiiouse as compared with previous years and this is a happy indication of the present pros- perous state of Aberystwyth and district. Fortu- nately there is plenty of work in the town for all classes of working men who are anxious to obtain it. 4", The meeting of the members of the Aberystwyth Downie's Bequest held on Thursday was an ex- tremely noisy one. Councillor W. Thomas sought to review the whole conduct of the trustees since the year 1894, and made himself uncomfortably warm in attempting to explain how tremendously anxious he was for the moral welfare of Archdeacon Protheroe and Dr. Gilbertson. Why Councillor Thomas worries himself so much about the doings of other gentlemen is perhaps at the first glance puzzling, but so long as Councillor Thomas's anxiety gives him an opportunity of raising a discussion on the question of the appointment of Trustees the object he has in view will be attained. The total want of respect shown for the Chairman by Coun- cillor Thomas places him in an unenviable position. Evidently he has to undertake the sometimes un- pleasant task of discharging other people's bullets, but if the reward that awaits him is as unsound as the bullets he discharges it will be poor compensa- tion for the undignified attitude he cuts at the caprice of his friends. ;K The North Wales Observer, of 29th May, has the following editorial remarks upon Mr. Lloyd- George's achievement on the Land Rating Bill "We are prouder than ever of our Borough Mem- ber, after his brilliant opposition to the Agricul- tural Rating Bill of the Government. The ingenuity and cleverness with which he spun out amendments to the Bill have raised his Parliamentary fame be- yond measure." Mr. Lloyd-George will have to put a gag upon or even suspend his supporters in the press, if they expose so Kakedly the real motive of his Parliamentary activity. Spinning out amend- ments is a charming admission of the Welsh Radical press. The Powis Provincial Eisteddfod was held this week at Oswestry, and we hope that the promoters will be rewarded for the efforts they have put forth with the success, financially, which they so richly deserve. It is true that the attendance at the morning and afternoon meetings on Thursday and the forenoon meeting yesterday was not so well attended as might have been expected; nevertheless we trust that the magnificent audience, presided over by Lord Kenyon yesterday afternoon, will compensate for this. The entries in some of the art classes and musical competitions were poor, especially the brass band contests, the prizes in the latter being practically thrown away, there being only one band in the competitions, which fact is due to an unfortunate blunder. Adequate as were the arrangements made for the occasion, still we think more consideration should have been extended to the Press. On Thursday the reporters had to take notes and transcribe them on their knees in time for the evening and daily editions, and the difficulty generally experienced in writing after this fashion is so generally known, that the press gang were to be pitied in having to work under such tryiug cir- cumstances. There was a great improvement in the arrangements in this direction yesterday, and we have no doubt that for the future this little matter will not be overlooked. The principal features of the eisteddfod were the art loan exhibition, which was admirably arranged and reflected great credit on those who carried out the work; the addresses of Principal Rhys and Lord Kenyon, and the chief choral and male voice choir competitions decided yesterday. :11: Few local competitions during the past quarter of a century have been the means of evoking so wide- spread a feeling as the choral competition which took place yesterday afternoon. The minor com- petitions, some of them, were interesting, but it was apparent from the demeanour of the vast crowd of people who had assembled in the Powis Hall that for them the bright particular » contest of the day was the choral struggle between seven choirs. It was thought some weeks ago that Builth would have entered the lists, and much disappointment was felt when it became known yesterday that this victorious combination had not put in an appear- ance. As it was a battle royal was anticipated, and the great expectations indulged in by the lovers of choral singing who had assembled in the Powis Hall were in every sense more than realised. The prize of zC50 went to Blaenau Festiniog, a grand combination of voices, with 34 marks out of a possible 35, and we understand that in order of merit followed Shrewsbury, only one point behind, then Llanfyllin (last year's prize winners) with 33, and afterwards Welshpool. Our readers will doubtless be anxious to know how this compares with last year's result. In the first place we may mention that Shrewsbury Were last year's favourites, but they failed to make an impression on the adjudicators owing to their falling flat at the commencement of their singing, which was due to the unfortunate position they took up on the platform, rendered false on account of the imper- fect accoustic properties of the pavilion in which the competition took place. This year they come second to the winners, who did not compete last year. Shrewsbury are now followed by Llanfyllin, with Welshpool-who were third last year, Builth being second-next. Had Builth turned up yester- day they might have found a place between Llanfyllin and Welshpool. They might have been first for ought we know. Still, the fact remains that the choirs referred to by the adjudicators yesterday occupy about the same position they did last year, only that Shrewsbury has advanced higher up the ladder. Welshpool folk have every reason to congratulate t.ii'msi-lves upon having in their midst a choir like the Welshpool Choral Union. Unfortunate!v. the choir is, through no fault of its own, badly propor- tioned otherwise, it might stand a better chance in open competition, and ir is a matter of further congratulation whun we consider that the choir was only established a little over a year ago with in- experienced singers, and Mr C. H. Junes, the con- ductor of the choir, deserves much praise for the present position of his choralists. Their singing yesterday was indeed very creditable. They attacked the first piece with spirit and power, and gave vent to a fine volume of sound. At the con- clusion of their performance an outburst of en- thusiastic applause marked the audience's approval of the singing. We. hope the choir will go on improving, and that some day their efforts will be crowned with the success which they and their leader so richly deserve. There is very good reason to hope that out of all the turmoil over the training of our children some substantial good will arise for those hapless little ones who, since they can serve the purpose of no political party, are wont to be grievously neglected. If a fraction of the time and trouble spent in fighting for the caprices of the political Noncon- formist conscience Lad been expended on the friend- less" children of the state," many a young life might have been different. Sir John Gorst iii, the credit of being the first legislator to befriend them, and two such authoritive experts as 3Iiss Davenport Hill and Miss Louisa Twining emphatically endorse that part of his much contested Bill which deals with that question. Miss Twining especially, who has done such permanent public service on behalf of the pauper class, is delighted to see her old and once contemned theories, embodied in this Bill. One thing she insists upon, that womanly care mnst be provided for these children, if not by lady guardians by some other means. Sir Howard Vincent scored one. As the Hon. secretary of the United Empire Trade League, he spends all his force upon the endeavour to induce the Government and Parliament of this country to adopt a Customs' Union, with preferential treat- ment for produce and goods coming from the colonies. He is a frank Protectionist, but his main purpose is less to get rid of Free-trade than to set up a system which inevitably tends to Imperial Federation. In the name of Free-trade the Radicals have always opposed the Customs' Union, and many who still profess and call themselves Liberals have ) permitted themselves to accept a suggestion which they know to involve an economic heresy only because they see in it the machinery for creating an organic unity, which they hold to be absolutely necessary, in the end, to the future of the Empire. But what does Mr Lloyd-George do ? He is certain to do something foolish-it is his destiny. He puts down the following amendment to the Finance BiJI The duty of Customs now payable on tea shall continue except in respect of tea grown in any part of her Majesty's dominions.' This is simple pure, unadulterated Protection without even the compensating advantage of a Customs' Union. Obviously it gives an advantage to Assam and Ceylon to the disadvantage (in the present state of the market already very marked) of China. It is a needless form of Protection, uncalled for, and very likely to raise the price of Indian teas to the consumer. Mr. Lloyd-George did not realise this fact. He is giving away Free-trade without know- ing it. What he has done, however, only emphasises what we have so frequently pointed out, that the zealous members of Parliament who pursue the industry of amendment manufacture are among the most unintelligent of their class. It does not need brains to go through a Bill, and to suggest ridiculous changes of this kind in the Budget of the year-changes which would involve fresh taxation, and would necessitate the recasting of the Chancellor of the Exchequer's finance. Anyone could do that sort of thing. Mr liloyd-George has done it. #:# # From a Press Association telegram yesterday, we learn that upon the resumption of the Congress of Chambers of Commerce of the Empire, a resolution was adopted recommending that the present British Penny Postal System should carry postal matter from this country to every British Colony, and, that in return each Colonial Government should carry all postal matter at its present provincial rate to every part of the empire. To use a hack- neyed phrase, this would indeed supply a long felt want," and in addition to being a great boon to the whole Empire would strengthen the bond existing between the Colonies and the, Mother Country. The song of > the nightingale is to be heard nightly at the Dingle, close to Abermule. Numbers of people go to listen to its melodious notes every night. We believe it is about 13 or 14 years since a nightingale sang in that neighbourhood. Mr Frank Lloyd has a very large entry of 500 heavy horses for his sale on Wednesday and Thursday next, which will comprise a very fine lot of town, Inrry and van horses. We under- stand that all horses arc guaranteed, and two days' trial allowed.

WELSHPOOL. TOWN COUNCIL.—A full report of the meeting of this body will be found on 3rd page. D. JONES & Sox's Indian and Ceylon Tea, at 2s. per lb. is absolutely pure, therefore best.—Noted Home Cured Ham and Bacon Stores, High Street. [Advt.] MUFFLED PEALS.—On Tuesday evening, and during the funeral ceremony on Wednesday, muffled peals were rung on the bells of St. Mary's Church as a tribute of sincere respect to the memory of the late Col. Harrison. ROYAL VISIT CHOIR.—Practices are now being held in the Town Hall preparatory to the event on the 25th inst. The accommodation at the railway station being so limited, peremptory orders have been given by the railway authorities that the choir must not exceed 200. This limit has now been reached. 4TH BATT. SOUTH WALES BORDERERS. On Wednesday the regiment returned from the Beacon firing camp at Brecon, in order to complete the remainder of their training at Welshpool. Owing to their attendance at the funeral of the late Col. Harrison, it was necessary for them to leave the camp at 6-45 a.m., Laving a march of 4 miles to accomplish before reaching Brecon. Having arrived at Montgomery after a three hours journey they proceeded with the funeral cortege to Forden. At the conclusion they journeyed by train to Welshpool, which tl.ey reached about 3 p.m., after an arduous day's work, without any appearance of fatigue. At the camp last evening the following choice selection of music was performed by the band, under the conductorship of Mr Fred Owen March. Landolt," Seelmann; waltz, Lingering Memories," Minnie Sladen; selection," Boulevardia," Williams cornet solo, Don Pasquale," Donizetti; intermezze," Starlight," Bonheur fantasia, Gems of Cambria," Ron-rcl j God Save the Queen."

MONTGOMERYSHIRE YEOMANRY CAVALRY. SUCCESS AT RHYL. Yesterday the 15th Yeomanry Brigade Military Tournament took place at Rhyl, the competition being for the brigade cup. The Montgomeryshire Yeomanry were "represented by Sergt T. S. Jones, Sei<n T Sides, Troopers C. Humphreys and C. Milfer The best four men in each regiment were allowed to compete and the man making the best aggregate wins the brigade cup presented by tue committee of the Royal Military Tournament. The competitions were as follows: Heads and posts, tent pegging, and lemon cutting; results-Sergt. T. S. Jones, Montgomeryshire Yeomanry, first, Trooper C. Miller, Montgomeryshire Yeomanry, second, Farrier Sergeant Edwards, Denbigh Yeomanry, third, Trooper J. Edwards, Denbigh Yeomanry, 4th. Sergt. T. S. Jones wins the cup twice in suc- cession.

CAERSWS. FOKKSTERS' \XXIVKRSARY. — The village, of Caersws was be See,:e of some little bustle and excitement on Wednesday, the occasion being the anniversary uf Court A.O.F. Tne members assembled at the Lodgeroom at 10.30 j a.m., here they formed into procession, and, headed by the Llanidloes Brass Band, under the! conductorship of Mr Lewis Rowlands, marched to Pontdolgoch, whence they proceeded owr Gwyn- fynydd to LIanwllog Parish Church, where an appropriate discourse was delivered by the Vicar, Rev D. Parry. Having called at the Workhouse, the members adjourned to the Buck Inn to partake of an excellent dinner, provided by Mr 1). K. Thomas. Mr Evan Jones presided over a large company, which included Rev Morgan Jones (vice- chairman in the unavoidable absence of Rev D. Parry), Messrs Francis, G. Jones, secretary; T. Roberts, Caersws; D. Jones, Church House; D. T. Francis, Tynyrwtra; T. E. Kinsey, Maesmawr J. E. Mills, j. Evans, huilder: T. Jones, Bryn- Ilywarell W. G. Cleeton, C.R.; A. R. Breese, Union R. Savage, Penyborfa George Phillips, Unicorn; E.J. Catkin, Henfryn; E. Humphreys, J. Davies. if. E. Rees, Llaudinam, R. Rogers, Caersws; J. Evans, Gellydy wyll James Hamer. Penyborfa Dr Snow and others.—The Chairm." i having submitted the usual loyal toasts, that of the Bishop, clergy and ministers of all denomina- tions," was proposed in felicitous terms by Mr T. Jones, to which Rev Mergan Jones reponded. "The army, navy and reserve forces" having been duly honoured, Mr J. E. Mills gave "Agriculture and Trade," in so doing referred to the interest mani- fested throughout the county by all classes of agri- culturists, in that industry, especially in the bleeding of shire horses. The introduction of Here- ford pedigree bulls into the county was a step in the right direction. He coupled with the toast the names of Messrs Watkin, Henfryn, and Evans, the builder, those gentlemen responding.— The next toast on the list was that of the A.O.O. and Court Hand-m-Hand." Jn submitting it for the accep- tance of the company, the Chairman alluded to the great assistance rendered by friendly societies towards the relief of the rates, and to the fact that by means of those societies alcne, it was possible for working men to obtain their independence. The report was very encouraging, showing the society to be in a prosperous condition (applause). He associated with the toast the names of Messrs Cleeton and F. G. Jones, secretary. The former gentleman having acknowledged the compliment, the Secretary said that the history of the society had been a record of success from year to year (applause). Since the Court opened in 1880, with the exception of one member, there had been no appeal from the decision of the Chairman of their Court meetings, and the dealings of their officers had been marked by consideration and adherence to rules. During the past year there had been an increase of eight members, the total membership at the end of the year being 128, the average age of whom was 31. Of the 128, 60 were married. Turmng to the financial condition of their society, they found ample proof of its progress. During the past year the total receipts on the sick and funeral fund amounted to £ 170, and their expenditure on that account was L128, which was rather heavier than ordinarily, having had to pay for 202 days sickness and accident. They had paid C275 into district funds, and had received £ 198. In addition to the balance shown at the foot of the balance sheet, they had zC90 to their credit with the bankers of the district. With regard to the Order, progress had been very steady, the total number of mem- bers being 888,304, which was an increase of 1,659 female Foresters' on the year. There were 1,359 widows who contributed after the death of their husbands 5,789 juveniles, and 320 honorary mem- bers. Their distrtct funds reached £ 680,320; juvenile branch, £ 164.890; widows and orphans fund, £ 52,843; High Couit relief fund, £ 25,570; I medical service, zCl,847, making a total of £ 5,617,030, being an increase on the year of £ 128,217 (applause). Other toasts followed and were interspersed with songs by members of the company. BOARD OF GUARDIAN'S.—WEDNESDAY. Air. R. Bennett in the chair.—The Master re- ported that at a school examination held in the village recently, two boys, one 14 years of age, attached to the House, passed. On the previous Friday, service was held in the House by Rev. F. Wellbourne, twenty inmates being present. Num- ber in the House, 63; vagrants relieved during the fortnight, 60 against 86.-Tramp Accommodation Ward: The Committee reported that they had given this question their best consideration, and recommended that the Board should adopt and adhere to the ticket system, using three distinct tickets-(l) for bona-fide workmen in search of employment; (2) for the doubtful tramp who should work as at present; (3) for the professional tramps who should be detained two nights, work- ing on the intervening day and the alloted share of the following day. The committee further suggested that the clerk be requested to draw up a. form of ticket to be issued in three different colours, in Caersws, Llanidloes, and Newtown, and that the Chief Constable be asked to allow the police to issue three tickets, by which means the tramps would be kept under the notice of the police, tramps not possessing the tickets being con- sidered as, vagrants. It was further recommended that a notice to this effect should be posted in the tramp wards of adjoining Workhouses.—Mr. Kinsey having suggested that stones should be obtained to be broken by the tramps, Mr. C. Morgan congratu- lated the committee on the excellence of their report. He bad much'pleasure in moving that they experiment with the ticket system for six months, so as to give it a fair trial. He hoped that at the end of that time they would better understand the scheme, and that in consequence of that report the number of tramps would be reduced. He further moved that the same gentleman be empowered to order some stones for delivery there.The resolu- tion having been seconded, was put and carried, it being further decided to invite the co-operation of the Chief Constable in the matter.—Amalgama- tion The Clerk announced that be had received a communication from the Llanfyllin Guardians re- questing to be furnished with a copy of the financial statement of the Union for the years 1895-6, and further asking what period had been taken by the committee in guiding them in drawing up their report. He (the clerk) had replied that the last half-yearly statement had been taken by the committee. The Llanfyllin Union, alluding to the last paragraph ef the committee's report, had written further desiring to know how the amalga- mation scheme would partially settle th9 vexed tramp question.—Mr J. Lewis observed that if a workhoute was abolished it would be evident that it would no longer be a harbour for tramps.—A resolution was received from the Forden Union to the effect that no action would be taken by that Board in the matter at present.—Mr C. Morgan, in the conrse of a lengthy speech, expressed satisfaction at the progress made in the county in respect of the amalgamation question, seeing that three out of the four Unions were in favour of it. In the cource of discussion on this matter in the county, arguments had been put forward such as not prepared," more light," not ripe," to which he would reply that if ever a case was ripe this was. Proceeding, he pointed out in favour of the scheme that agriculture had now reached a serious stage of depression, the prices of stock and produce being ruinous. Were they justified in maintaining four Workhouses in a county of 62,000 inhabitants, and containing but 250 inmates. A great saving would be effected by having one common house, and he moved that this Board respectfully requests the Forden Board of Guardians to reconsider their re- solution.—Carried. BETTWS. MONTGOMERY AND SALOP PRESBYTERY.—A meet- ing of this Presbytery was held here yesterday week. CONCERT. An excellent concert was given in the Schoolroom on Monday evening by Mr. H. Griffiths' Bechan Valley Choir and several gifted friends. The proceeds were to be partly devoted to the Bechan Valley Choir Fund and to the build- ing fund of the new Church School. The pro- ceedings were presided over by the Vicar, who in a very happy vein introduced each piece. The comics brought down the house," but, where all was so good and pleasing, it would be invidious to make any distinction between one or ot her. Miss Hay's performance on the banjo and Miss Evans and Miss Barratt's rendering of songs were much appreciated. The following was the programme Anthem The Lord is my shepherd," Choir song The holy city," Miss Evans. Newtown song "The maid of the mill," Mr. G. Bliss duet, pianoforte and banjo, Misses Miller and Hay song Its a great big shame," Mr. Miller; duet, Misses Evans and Barratt; song Crabbed age and vouth" Male voice choir. Part 2. Toss'd by the wind," Choir; duet, Misses Evans and Barratt; song, Mr. T. HowtIIs; duet, pianoforte and banjo, Misses Mil- ler and Hay song If it wasn't for the 'ouses in between," Mr. Miller; quartette, choir; song, There's another and the 'tother one"; duet,' Love and war." THE NEW SCHOOLS. The foundation stone of the new Church School will be laid on Friday next by Lady Pryce-Jones. Mrs. Lewis-Andrew, Mrs. R. E. Jones, and Miss Marshall. The ceremony will be preceded by a service in church at 2 o'clock when I the Yen. Archdeacon of Montgomery will officiate.

NEWTOWN. BAND TJIXITAI.. Die fi-urih reci.t of season was g!v."i bv the N evi Silver l.:aud in Severn Square :;L. in the proseneo nf H large company. i :w iuh-c.v: us the pr J::)nllC: March. ;r,,< (1) Ii:;f.r): overrui* "La CV>i;: (• .u-ve i p Ion » ): wahx. 'La Serenata" (Jaxone selection. W illiam "i'oil(Rossini): hvrnn (raried). Edwinsc-uio" (Ord Hnmc); grand march. "March the Pries; •< i At Isnlie I (Mendelssohn! finale. <-Jsnvo t he yueen." CHKSCT-T CHAIT. Tht, annirersary services in connection witli this place of worship was held on Sunday, when Pr-.fessor Williams, M.A.. of Trefecca College, oiffciated. Three services were held during the day. and erv largely attended. The eloquent discourse's ol the. professor were greatly appreciated by those present. Collections were taken at each service in aid of the chapel debt. and amounted to X19 Is 9d. AFRICAN MISSION.— On Sundav last Be%- Hodson, preached three very excellent sermons in connection with the above, to large and apprecia- tive congregations. The collections taken in aid of the mission were good. PRESE-ITATIO-N.-On Tuesday last Mr Ashworrh who has conducted verv successful French classes in connection with the Royal Welsh Wax-Louse Recreation and Improvement Society for some time was presented with a black ebony walking stick, silver-mounted and suitably engraved. Mr W. G. Cleeton, made the presentation. MARRIAGE.—The marriage of Mr J. ( Edwards Towyn, to Miss E. Rogers, Pieton Arms, Newtown, took place at the New-town Parish Church on Mon- day last, Rev E. A. Fishbourne (rector), and Rev G. Roberts (curate), officating. The bride who was accompanied by Miss Edwards, the groom's sister, was given away by her brother-in-law, Mr F. C. Hanks. After the ceremony, the wedded pair left for Cardiff where they will spend their honeymoon. Many presents were received. CYCLING CLUB.—On Thursday evening about 25 of the members met at the Crescent for a spin to DoJforwyn. The bugler (Mr. Pritcbard) sounding the order to mount, Mr. Free R. Lloyd, in the ab- sence of Mr. Kershaw, president, led the wav, Captains Norton and Oweu marshalling the wheel- men. Dolforwyn being reached the members were dismissed, some going to the Halfway, and others to Abermule. The bugle again sounded and the return journey was made in do :b!e file entii i he town was ieached when the members verv orderly assumed single file and proceeded to the'Crescen where they were dismissed. PETTY SESSIONS, YFSTERDAY.—Before Messrs R. E. Jones, E. W. Savage, and Alfred Ford. DRUXKEXXESS.—The following were fined for this offence:—John Kuagg, Ladywell-street, 5s and costs; Richard Jones, Skinner-street, 5s and costs; both were charged by P.C. Morgan Hammonds, Commercial-street, 5s and costs, charged by P.C. Watkins. MAIXTEXAXCE. The Guaidiaus of the Newtown and Llanidloes Union charged George Jones with not complying with an order made upon him to contribute towards the maintenance cf his father and mother.—Order made for payment by instal- ments of 2s 6d per week. SCHOOL CASE.—John Andrew, attendance officer, charged William Morris with not sending his child regularly to seliool.-Adjouriied. ASSAT.-LT.Alary Jane Mortimer charged her husband. Lawrence Mortimer, with assaulting her on the 3rd inst.-Compl,inant stated on the day in question defendant came home drunk, and used most filthy language, and caught hold of witness by the neck. The neighbours came on the scene and he made use of several threats. Witness desired a separation order.—Defendant was fined R2 includ- ing costs, or one month's imprisonment.

LLANDINAM. MARRIAGE.—On Tuesday, Rev Morgan Jones. M.A., officiating, the marriage of Mr Frank Jones, of Newtown, to Miss B. Jones, Post Office, LJan- dinam, was solemnized at the Parish Church. The bridesmaids were Misses Jones, sisters of the bride, and Rev Geo. Roberts, Newtown, was best man. As the happy pair went through Newto-wn with the 3 o'clock train en route for London, the bells at the Parish Church (of which place Mr Jones is a singer) pealed forth merrily in honour of the event.

GARTHMYL. PROVIDENCE.—The Anniversary Services in con- nection with the Sunday School, was held in the above chapel on Sunaay last, the preacher being Rev. Warburton Lewis, B.A., Montgomery. There was a capital attendance. On Monday, the children attending the Sunday School were the recipients of a substantial tea. Miss Pritchard and Miss Evans presided at the tables, and they were assisted by Mr&. Francis, Misses Emily Gittins and Lucy Pritchard. In the evening a lecture was given by Rev. Idrisyn Jones, of Welshpool, on The Rules of Life." Mr. W. Pritchard occupied the chair, and the attendance was excellent.

CHURCHSTOKE. ODDFELLOWS' ANNIVERSARY. The twenty- seventh anniversary festival of the Friend in Need" Lodge (M.U.) was held on Wednesday, the weather being everything that could be desired. There was a strong muster of members at eleven o'clock, and the procession, headed by the New- town Band, marched to Ivy House, the residence of Mr. A. G. Montford, where they were most liberally provided with refreshments. A short service in the Parish Church followed, Rev Preben- dary White giving an appropriate address from 1 Tim. iv. 9. After parading the village, an adjournment was made to the tent for dinner, which was provided by Mr. R. Davies and Mrs. Davies, Courthouse Inn. The chair was occupied by Rev. Prebendary White, Mr. A. G. Montford (hon. treasurer of the lodge) and Dr Robertson (lodge surgeon) occupying the vice-chairs. Amongst those present, in addition to members of the lodge, we noticed Rev. A..T. Griffiths, Messrs. T. Howard (Gwarthlow), E. Embrey, A. Eaton, and Wood (Montgomery), E. Powell and R. Whitel(Chirbury), T. Mooris (Forden), D. Davies (Alport), D. Davies (Meadows), W. E. Shuker (Pentre), H. Morris (Gwernygoe), C. T. Bayley (Snead), J. Gwilt (Mellington), M. Roscoe, T. Phillips, and Hamer (Churchstoke). After the loyal toasts had been duly honoured, Mr. A. G. Montford proposed The Bishop and Clergy of the diocese and ministers of other denominations," coupling with it the name of Rev A. J. Griffiths, who responded.—The Chairman next submitted Success to the Friend-in-Need Lodge," and in doing so said that the lodge was prospering in every way, the last balance sheet showing a satisfactory increase in each of the separate funds, and the number of members, which during 1895 bad increased from 183 to 190, had now reached 198 (cheers). There were also 18 juvenile members, making a total membership of 216. He was glad to know that the accounts of the lodge were not only properly audited, but at intervals were duly valued by an actuary, and on each occasion the lodge had been reported to be per- fectly solvent and able to meet all the demands which could be made upon it (applause). He had always taken a great interest in the welfare of the lodge and hoped that with a continuance of the able management which had characterised it in the past the society would continue to prosper (cheers). The lodge secretary, Mr G. Mountford, in respond- ing, said he had first to offer apologies m bH;a'f of Mr W. P.Jones, Rockley, who by an accident waa prevented from taking the chair that day, and also on behalf of Messrs J. Shuker, C. Shuker (corre- sponding secretary of the Montgomery district), E. Bridgwatet (Grand Master of the dis- trict), and J. E. Tomley (district auditor), all of whom were attending the funeral of the late Col. Harrison. Having thanked them for the kind way in which the toast had been received, he ex- expressed his pleasure that during the past year, in spite of the large sum of L70 having been paid to sick members, Cl60 had been saved (cheers). He reminded the members that while they were being congratulated on the able and successful way in which the society was managed, they must not forget how much they owed to others. They would no doubt be surprised to hear that since the for- mation of the lodge, 26 years ago, the sum of C200 had been received from honorary members, and during the same period £70 had been raised hy concerts on behalf of lodge funds, and fo: this they were, in a great measure, indebted to outside friends (applause). The total sum paid for sickness and funeral benefits since the lodge was formed was £ 1,067, and when they remembered that the Man- chester Unity was only one of several larcre societies, and that the Frie^nd-in-Need Lod £ > was only one of nearly 5,000 lodges in the M- Chester Unity, they could not help bping struck with a sense of the vast amount of crood being done by friendly societies throu'ho" T world (applause). He trusted that the success nf the past would be maintained, and that the lod^ would have a successful future (cheer^ n/w toasts followed.—The remainder of tlieev 8 devoted to dMcing. 'p^ZeTf dance music being supplied bv H U ? rdrt„r.hip which the proceedings took place was as for several i'ao!d »K sPa:iT0ns Ilso chairman of the" 'S"* ^'°e' wl'° WM xi. which was respon- sible for the arrangementH