The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

FORDEN RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL WEDNESDAY. The monthly meeting of this council was held at the Workhouse, Mr J. Davies presiding. There were also present Revs W. A. Jones and J. Sawer, Messrs John Edwards, vice-chairman, J. Holloway, W. Pritchard, E. Davies, and T. Owen, with Mr C. S. Pryce, clerk, Mr Tomley, deputy clerk, Mr W. P. Hofe, surveyor, Mr W. H. Pritchard, inspector, and Dr W. N. Thnrsfield, medical officer. SURVEYOR'S REPORT. The surveyot- (Mr Hole) reported npon thebroken stono received from the Workhouse. They had charged for 42 tons whereas they had only received 37 tons 18 ewt. 3 lbs. The stones would c $t them 61 per too lesa were the ponueil to have them de- livered upon the road and broken by their own men. Respecting the foot bridges at Berriew, Church- stoke, Hyssiagton, they were satisfactorily erected. The Castle Caereioion footbridges were in a danger- ons state as were the public footpaths, tie asked the permission of jthe council to distribute Christmas pay to the workmen. The County Council had made the precedent, and it was rather hard that one body 'of men should receive Christmas pay and not the other: The Chairman said they would take the question of stone first. The matter was adjourned as was a'so the question of bridges at Castle Caereiuion. The Chairman referring to the ques- tion of paying the workmen on Christmas day said it did not make any difference what their opinion was inasmuch as the County Council had agreed to pay their men. He thought they (the District Council) should pay theirs, they received their money from the same source. He proposed that the surveyor pay them, seconded by Rev J. Sawer, and carried. SANITARY INSPECTOR'S REPORT. The Sanitary Inspector reported that since his appointment he had visited 1,044 premises, and in doing so travelled upwards of 2,035 miles. He found 540 premises in a satisfactory condition, 130 preliminary notices had been served, and 66 cases laid before the Council. During twelve months new drains, &c, had been laid down, and nine houses had been made fit for habitation. The water question at Llwynbrain, Beiriew, had been settled, the land- lady having caused the well to be deepened and the supply was now plentiful. Two houses at Pentre- llivior had been condemned as unfit for habitation. The nuisance at Castie Caereinion (Rural) had been abated, but the urban portion had not yet been attended to. The Berriew Water Supply question had been referred to the Parish Council. The matter of infectious diseases notified were scarlet fever, 7 diphtheria, 3 small pox, 1; erysipelas, 1; and enteric fever, 2, the last two proving fatal. The Inspector further reported that he had visited during the month 61 premises, and 35 were found satisfactory. 11 e had to report one case of scarlet fever at Hurdsey, Churchstoke. APPLICATION. The Chairman read a letter from the Sanitary Inspector (Mr Pritchard), who desired an increase in his salary. He had to travel very much to per- form his duties, and as the district was very wide, his travelling expenses were consequently very heavy. The Chairman moved that they take the matter into consideration when the question of the re-appointment of the Inspector was dealt with at the next meeting. OBSTRUCTIONS. The Clerk stated that as directed he bad writte to Mr Bunner Morgan requesting him to remov the gates placed across the road at Brynpoeth Bauslev.-A reply to this letter was read from Messrs Salt and Sons, solicitors, Shrewsbury, on behalf of the Rev E. M. Towley, Rector of part of Pontesbury parish, to whom the Brynpoeth Farm belongs. They informed the Council that Mr Towley contended that the road was not a public one, and that he would hold the District Council responsible for any steps taken to remove the gates, or in any way open up the road to the public.—The Surveyor thought that the letter should be referred to the Bausley Parish Council.—It was ultimately decided to adopt the Surveyor's suggestion, and to let the matter stand over to the next meeting to allow the necessary enquiries to be made.—The Chairman gave notice that at the next meeting he should ask the Council to call the attention of the County Council to the blocking of the highway at Aber- mule station.—This was all the business..

ABERYSTWYTH. Our representative in Aberystwyth is Mr. J. DENLEY SPENCER, 32, High Street, to whom notice should be given of all events required to be reported in the COUNTY TIMES. PRESENTATION. — Mr Samuel Prosser having resigned the post of Secretary to the North Cardi- ganshire Teachers' Association, the members of the Association and the Executive of the National Union, have presented him with a beautifully illu- minated address in a massive gilt frame in recog- nition uf his services during his twelve years' term of office. The address is signed on behalf of the executive of the N.U.T. by T. J. Macnamara, Pre-' sident, and J. H. Yoxall, Secretary, and on behalf of the Local Association by C. A. Samuel, President, and H. Hansford Herring, Secretary. SCHOOL BOARD.—Alderman Pefer Jones presided over a meeting of the Board on Tuesday evening. There were also present Mrs Griffiths, the Rev Prebendary Williams, Councillors Thomas Griffiths, W. M. Thomas, and Mr T. B. Hall, with Mr R. J. Roberts (clerk), Mr Saer (headmaster), and Mr Lloyd (attendance officer).—A resolution fiom the Manchester School Board dealing with the proposed education grant to Voluntary Schools was read and discussion upon it was deferred pending the intro- ¡ duction of the Bill by the Government in the next session.—Councillor D. C. Roberts asked to have his name withdrawn from the list of candidates for the Local Governing Body of the Intermediate School, and the Board agreed to vote for Mrs Vaughan Davies, Mrs Griffiths, and Alderman Peter Jones.—The Board then went into committee. PRISONER OFFERED £10 DOWN.—At the Police Station on Monday before Messrs C. M. Williams ( and J. B. Morgan, two men named John Price, hawker, of Maesteg, South Wales, aud George Bennett, labourer, Wandsworth, were brought up in custody charged on suspicion of having stolen certain articles, amongst the number being brass bridle plates and leggings, found amongst the pro- perty of the prisoners in Trefechan, from a farm in the neighbourhood of Bow Street.—P.S. Phillips related how in'company of P.C. Hughes he visited the van of the prisoners on Saturday evening. They found both of the men at home, neither of whom objected to the police searching their van and bags. They found some brass bridle pieces and a pair of leggings which answered to the description of the stolen property. P.C. Hughes then charged the men with the theft, but they made leply, and the constables afterwards locked them up.—P.S. Phillips applied for a remand until Thursday.—The elder prisoner asked to be allowed out on bail, and was prepared to put £10 down but the Bench refused to grant it. A TALIESIN MAIDEN IN TROUBLE.—At the same Court and before the same magistrates Catherine Jenkins, aged 17, farm servant, Taliesin, who cried bitterly as she stood before the table, was charged with stealing a pair of boots and stockings from Blaeneinion Farm on December 29th. The girl was in service at Blaeneinion, and when charged with the theft by P.C. Joseph merely said I took them."— Superintendent Phillips asked for a remand until Thursday and it was granted.—As the prisoner was led away towards the cells she burst into heavy sobs. TOWN COUNCIL COMMITTEES. HARBOUR COMMITTEE. Alderman Doughton presided over a meeting of the Harbour Committee on Monday evening, and there were also present Councillor R. Doughton (mayor), Councillor T. Griffiths (ex-mayor), Councillors J. Hopkins, W. Thomas, E. H. James, with Mr H. L.Evana.ond Mr Rees Jones (surveyor). The Surveyor produced testing certificates from Lloyd's Proving House, Netberton.—The Surveyor said that he had received a letter from Councillor Hopkins, but he did not know whether it would be for the Council or the Committee.—-Upon the suggestion of Councillor Thomas the letter was read in Committee, and the members then agreed that it was for the CounciL PUBLIC WvRKS COMMITTEE. Alderman Peter Jones presided over a meeting of this committee held on Monday evening, and the members who were present at the Harbour Committee were joined by Councillor R. Peake.— Labour sheets amounting to JE123 lis 2d were examined and passed.—The Medical Officer (Dr. Thomas) said that the Mayor's contention respect. ing the shade thrdwn by tbe bars of the rail across the face of the sun register was correct, and he produced a copy of the recorder bearing evidences of the discrepancies in the record.—It was agreed te have an alteration made on the height of the stand.—The Medical Officer presented his quarterly report. During the quarter there were 39 births, 22 males and 17 females, being at the rate of 183 per 1000 on a 8500 basis, and 23*3 of the census basis of 6000 odd. TheijfcH^jB^jlfedeaths, being at tfce ratoAoif;pertMgfl§MWbhe 8600 < aiwfcZS5! on tbe one yeaar 9~ died, over One and under five 4, over I five and under fifteen 0, over fifteen and under twenty-five 1, over twenty-five ind under sixty-five 17, over sixty-five 11. Two deaths were due to accident. Of the 11 deaths over 65 six were over 70, four upwards of 80, and one upwards of 90. The death-rate was lower than the previous year taking all the quarters together. For four consecutive months there had been no infec- tious disease in the town, but daring December there were three cases—facial erysipelas and dyphtheria. In conclusion he expressed a hope that the paving would be taken up with as little delay as possible.—Councillor Hopkins said that in Poplar Row there was a water closet without water for the last two years.—The Surveyor said that owing to a leakage the water was cut off but the owner had now given the necessary instructions for its repair.—In answer to the Chairman, the Medical Officer said that the average death-rate for the year was 19'71 on the census, and 15 45 on the 8,500 population.—Councillor Hopkins said that the death-rate was more than the birth-rate and he thought they ought to encourage the young people to get married (laughter).—Generally the report was considered to be satisfactory. — Councillor Thomas brought up the question of the census of next April, and one of the members suggested that the age and name of every person should be taken. The Mayor The old maids will not give their age (laughter).—It was agreed to ask the Town Clerk I to make the necessary arrangements and to take the names and the ages.—The Town Gardener applied for more trees, and the Committee agreed to recommend the Council to accede to his request. —Three tenders were received for cement Williams and White, 37s 6d per ton, delivered at the harbour, dues paid Dawbran and Co., Liver- pool, 37s 9d, exclusive of harbour dues and M. H. Davis and Sons, 37s. 6d. per ton delivered at the harbour, dues free. The latter tender stated that they had a cargo of cement now on the water.— Alderman Doughton did not believe in the way the Council got the cement, and thought they should ft-der it direct. Why should they put £5 into the pockets of tradesmen F—In reply to a question, the Surveyor stated that they paid 36s. 6d. a ton when they ordered the cement direct from the London firms and took a cargo of 140 tons.—Alderman Doughton That does not say that it will be 36s. 6d. to-day.—Councillor Hopkins said it was often the case that the tradesmen were merely agents for the firms, and the price remained the same from either party.—The Chairman mentioned that they paid 46s. 8d. per ton on rail.—Councillor Thomas confirmed the view expressed by Councillor Hop- kins.—Councillor Griffiths did not-think the con- tract was worth dividing.—Alderman Doughton said he was not against the local tradesmen, but considered the present method a bad one.—The Chairman said the remarks of Alderman Doughton were out of place, as the Council had already given the Committee instructions in the matter.-Alder- man Doughton I made those remarks at the Council, and I am not going to be silent here.—It was agreed to divide the tender between Messrs Williams and White and Messrs. M. H. Davis and Sons.—The Surveyor said it was intended to do certain work in the way of paving, and he asked to be informed of the particular part of the town that was to be taken in hand. — Councillor Hopkins called attention to the state of South Road, and a discussion fol- lowed on the state of South Marine Terrace, aud it was eventually agreed that the Surveyor should obtain the usual undertaking from Mr D. C. Roberts that he was prepared to pay for the work, and afterwards the Surveyor to carry out the work at an early date.—Councillor Hopkins again called the attention of the committee to the state of the paving in a portion of South road, and asked that it should be done.—It was decided that this matter should stand over until the Surveyor brought in a report on the streets requiring paving, repaired, etc. I —Councillor Peake complained of the state of the sea wall opposite Victoria Terrace, which was with- out any rail and if anyone fell over the Council would be responsible. He should like to see a tem- porary protection put np.—The committee did not think that the matter was so urgent, and the Sur- veyor stated that he would have the estimate for the new rails ready by next meeting of the Council. —Alderman Doughton moved that the committee reoommend the Council to appoint an assistant working foreman to the surveyor. Mr Rees Jones, he said, had got too much work to do, and at the present time he was doing more than any three men.—The Chairman pointed out that the heavy pressure on the Surveyor's time was caused owing to the extra work undertaken in conseqneno* of the damage done by the storm. 4 At the present time their labour sheets amounted to about J560 per week, which was something like £35 above the average. The Surveyor had promised to report upon a scheme for a redistribution of the labour of the town, and perhaps it would be better to leave that matter until the Surveyor reported.— Councillor Peake did not believe in employing an extra hand unless they intended keeping him.— The Surveyor said that he would report in the course of a week or two. — The Chairman said that counsel's opinion had been taken on the meaning of Sec. 51 of Gas Company's Act, and they were of opinion that laud could only be ac- quired by the Company by agreement and not be used as a site for manufacturing gas or storage of gas, but could be used for the storage of coal or coke.—The matter was deferred for the present. MARKI TS COMMITTEE. Councillor T. Watkin presided over a meeting of the committee on Tuesday evening, there were also present Aldermen Palmer and Doughton, Councillors E. H. James, E. P. Wynne, with Mr Evans and Mr Rees Jones. — An application for permissiou to erect a shed at the rear of the slaughter house was read. The applicant wished to erect a building in order to carry on the busi- ness of a maker of fiddle string from sheep's en- trails. The committee refused the application on the ground that it would be a nuisance. FINANCE COMMITTEE. Alderman W. H. Palmer presided over a meeting of this committee on Tuesday eveuing.—The Com- mittee recommended that five houses be erected in Sea View Place by Councillor D. C. Roberts, and the line of frontage would be altered as follows :— South road, 168 feet; corner of Custom House street, 25 feet (half frontage); Custom House street, 69 feet; corner of Sea View Place, 25 feet; Sea View Place, 90 feet. They also agreed that the land to be exchanged should be without con- cessions.—The Committee decided to recommend the Council to exchange land with Mr Griffith Williams and pay for:the difference. BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—MONDAY. A special meeting'of this Board was held, Mr T. Salmon presiding. There were also present: Messrs Hugh Hughes, Thomas Jones, James Jones, B. E. Morgan, John Jenkins, Richard Edwards, Evan Lewis, and Richard Davies; with Mr David Davies, deputy clerk—The question of altering the diet of the inmates came up for discussion, and Mr Richard Edwards proposed that in future the process of weighing out the food be dispensed with, and that instead the inmates be fed on the principle that the largest appetite should have the biggest share.—Mr Jenkins favoured this proposal and seconded the motion. At any ra" they could try it for three months.—Mr Hugh Hughes moved that gruel in the morning for the able bodied be dis- pensed with and that tea be substituted.—Mr B. E. Morgad was in favour of altering the present diet; but if they could not do that they might then adopt the proposal made by Mr Edwards. They ought to try and make the Workhouse more attrac- tive, in order that applicants for relief might be induced to enter the House.—Mr James Jones was also in favour of giving the people tea instead of gruel. Things were different now-a-days to what they were thirty years ago, and gruel had long ago given may to tea.—Ultimately it was decided that the Clerk should write to the Local Government Board asking for sanction to change the method of dealing out the food, and informing the Board that the Guardians were anxious to change the break- fast of the able bodied paupers from gruel to tea.— Mr B. E. Morgan Wp shall never get it.—Mr James Jones I know that (laughter).—Mr Morgan Then what's the use of trying ?—'Mr Jones Oh, we must keep pegging away.

MACHYNLLETH. LAY READER.—Mr Williams, of Dylife, has been appointed lay reader for Uwchygarreg Parish Church. BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—WEDNESDAY. Mr John Rowlands presided over a meeting of the Board held at the Workhouse. There were also present Mr Ellis Hughes (vice-chairman). Mrs Maglona Lloyd, Messrs Edward Hughes, Edward Pritcbard, John Jones, David Evans, J. Hughes Jones, John Owen, John Watkins, John Davies, Rowland Jones, W. Parry, N. B. Owen, Richard Hughes, David Lewis, W. M. Jones, with Mr David Evans (clerk), and Mr D. Morgan (assistant clerk). OUT-BELIEF. The following were the amounts paid in ont- relief during the past month:—Per Mr John Jones, Machynlleth, to 74 recipients, £39 5s; per Mr Daniel Howell, Darowen, to 155 recipients, £87 2s; per Mr W. M. Jones, to 115 recipients, JE62 18s. MASTER'S REPORT. The Master reported that there were 35 inmatea in the House as compared with 38 during the aame period at livat ywu". Daring the past four weeks 54 with 94 during the corresponding month of last year. On Christ- mas Day the inmates were treated to the usual dinner of roast beef and plum pudding. There were present Mr and Mrs Rowlands, Mrs Lloyd, Miss P. Jones, Mr John Davies (the Ffridd), Dr and Mrs Matthews, Mr David Evans (clerk), Mr pavid Morgan (assistant clerk). After dinner, a hearty vote of thanks was passed to the above-named gentlemen a similar vote being also passed to the Board. The following ladies and gentlemen sent presents for the inmates Mrs Lloyd (Bank Place), Mr Rowlands (Rock Villa), Mi David Evans, Mr R. Owen, Dr Matthews, Mr Edward Breeze, Mr John Davies, Messrs G. and W. Morton, Mr E. Rees, J.P., Mrs Catherine Owen, Messrs G. W. Griffiths, Henry Lewis, T. R. Morgan, John Thomas, Geo. Bowen, Thomas Breese, John Evans, Richard Jones, Edward Edwards, Miss A. C. Evans, Messrs John Lewis, Thomas Parsons, J. C. Ashton, and J. M. Breese.—A hearty vote of thanks was passed to the donors by the Board. LUNATICS ON THE INCREASE. The following letter was read from the Clerk to the Denbigh Lunatic Authorities:—I am directed by the Visitors Committee to invite the attention of the several Boards of Guardians to the present crowded state of the asylum and to request their assistance in preventing the augmentation of the number of patients by instructing their medical officers to defer as long as possible the removal of what may be termed chronic" patients to the asylum at all events until the contemplated tem- porary accommodation is ready for occupation. The present number of patients on the books is 695 whereas the nominal accommodation of the asylum is for 500. Of this number 72 are located at the temporary asylum at Glanywern and 23 at Derby Borough Asylum, so that there are 100 more patients crowded into the asylnm than there is proper accommodation for. This overcrowding is as will be apparent, seriously detrimental to the physical and mental welfare of both patients and staff, and any further increase would be most un- desirable if not practically impossible. There being no vacant accommodation in other asylums, the committee are providing temporary accom- modation for 100 patients on the asylum grounds by means of iron buildings, and they hope to have these ready for occupation in about three months, whilst the tender for the permanent buildings will be accepted on Tuesday next.—The letter was dated Dec. 16, 1896. RULES FOR OUT-DOOR RELIEF. The committee appointed to consider the rules relating to the payment of out-door relief brought in their report, which recommended the alteration of one or two of the rales. The rule preventing out-relief being given to non-resident paupers wae struck out. Recognised pay stations were to be arranged and no money should be paid in public houses and tradesmen's shops.—The report was adopted and the new rules will be printed and circulated. SUPERANNUATION OF OFFICERS. The Clerk presented the report of the committee a jpointed to consider the Superannuation Act, of those officials who came within the meaning of the Act, and the report was adopted. A vote of thanks was passed to those officials who refused to take advantage of the provisions of the Act.—There was no other business of importance.

A Washington telegram says that the general arbitration treaty between Great Britain and the United States was signed on Monday.. It will be submitted to the Senate at the earliest possible date. The King of Sweden has assented to the- article under which he will be called upon to name an arbitrator in certain contingencies. EPPS'S COCOA.—GRATEFUL AND COMFORTING.— By a thorough knowledge of the natural laws which govern the operations of digestion and nutrition, and by a careful application of the .fine properties of well-selected COCOA, Mr. Epps has provided for our breakfast and supper a delicately flavoured beverage which may save us many heavy doctors' bills. It is by the jndicions use of such articles of diet that a constitution may be gradually built up until strong enough to resist every tendency to disease. We may escape many a fatal shaft by keeping ourselves well fortified with pure blood and a properly nourished frame."—Civil Service Gazette.—Made simply with boiling water or milk. —Sold only in packets and pound tins, by Grocery, labelled— JAMES Epps A Co., Ltd., Homceopathio Chemists, London."—Also makers of Epps's Cocoaine or Coooa-Nib Extract: A thin beverage of full flavour, now with many beneficially taking the place of tea. Its active principle being a gentle nerve stimulant, supplies the needed energy without unduly exciting the system.

ABERDOVEY. LOCAL GOVERNMENT INQUIRY. On Thursday, Mr Rienzi Walton, C.E.Inat., an inspector from the Local Government Board, held an inquiry at the Aberdovey Town Hall, concerning an application from the Towyn District Council for power to borrow £4,500 for water supply purposes, and £1,500 for purposes of Sewerage Works. Previous to the inquiry, the Inspector, accompanied by Mr Morgan Davies, engineer, Mr W. R. Davies, clerk, and Mr Price Hughes, surveyor to the Council, inspected the site of the reservoir at Tynewydd Farm, and walked over the pipe line fiom there to the outlet, making a careful examina- tion of the works in progress. There were present at the inquiry Messrs William Jones Hnghes (chair- man), E. L. Rowlands, A. Tomlins, Capt E. Lewis, W. R. Davies, R. Baruett, P. H. Hughes (surveyor), E. Williams, Morgan Davies, John Husrh Jones, J. Evans, W. Williams, W. Lloyd, W. V. Thomas. Richard Davies, John Bell, Capt. H. Morris, John Pries, J. Owen, J. Tomlins, J. Wakeling, T. Watson, J. Tomlins, jun., Vincent Davies, Robert Griffith, Ed svard Lewis, Gwilym Williams, E.Jones, J. Row- lands, solicitor, Machynlleth, D. LI. Davies, Ac.— The Inspector was informed by the Clerk to the Council that the district was established in 1852, and was one of the oldest urban districts in the country. It embraced the whole of the Poor Law parishes of Towya, Aberdovey being a portion of the Towyn Urba, District. He might point out that Aberdovey nMt conceived the idea of providing better systems of sewerage and of water supply, and that as early as 1866 the sanction of the Local Government Board was obtained for borrowing £150 for the construction of sewerage works and water supply, and in 1867 a supplementary loan of £200 was sanctioned; whilst in 1871 furthes powers were obtained for borrowing £1,900 to payoff the then unexpired instalment in the construction of the new works. A very poor system of sewerage was then in force and it was agreed to make a further application. Plans were asked for and those of Mr Morgan Davies were considered to be the most suitable and were accepted.—Mr Tomlins, sen., asked if there were not three other plans, and for an explanation as to why one of those was not accepted, but was requested by the Inspector to reserve his remarks till the end of the Clerk's statement.—Continuing, Mr Davies said he need no* trouble about the sewage scheme because the sanction of the Local Government Board had been given with the exception of the outfall. The formal sanction had been delayed for two reasons, one being that the Cambrian Railway refused to give permission, and the other that the Board of Trade refused to sanction the scheme, but both these had now been removed. A temporary sanction to borrow £1,000 was given in 1896 for water supply, but more than this had been expended upon the work already. He referred to the fact that the mains for sewerage as first laid down were not satisfactory and it had become necessary to have replaced. In reply to the Inspector, Mr Davies sfated that there was no outstanding loan in respect of these mains. The popu. lation of the whole Urban District was 3,861, and that of the district affected by the water supply 928 at the last census, but since then it had increased..The assessable'value of the entire dis- trict was and the rateable value £16,920. The total balance on outstanding loan was £7,759. Mr Davies nrged that the loan asked for should be allowed to extend over a period of 40 years instead of 30, and stated that the present rate amounted to 4s in the pound. The Inspector said he did not think the Board would give more that 30 years,- Mr Morgan Davies then explained the details of the scheme to the inspector, and at the close of his statement was asked by Mr J. Tomlins, sen., how many sites were selected to make the reservoir on. Mr Morgan Davies: One.-—The Inspector asked what that had to do with it.—Mr Tomlins contended that three sites were selected, and that the engineers had picked the worst one—The Inspec- tor: This is entirely out of my province. I am here to discuss and investigate the scheme placed before me.—Mr Tomlins remarked that it didn't matter how they had been treated and what expense they ).ad been put to. Three sites had been selected, and the biggest had been picked simply because one of the members of the. Council had got some land to sell (laughter). Personally, he objected to the scheme, but he did not blame Mr Davies and the surveyor so much because they had been hum- bugged more than any men he knew (renewed laughter).—Mr J. Wakeling inquired what amount of money was wanted. He believed £6,000 was asked for.—The Engineer said £4,800 was required for the waterworiis.—Mr Tomlins It is abominable. —The InspectofSasked Mr Tomlins not to interrupt, when the latter gentleman repeated that it was abominable the way were being Ingpyato iiiij that m thetr representatives they should elect other men. —Mr Tomlins They have not faith in themselves (laughter).—This completed the enquiry into the water supply, and tbe, details of the sewerage scheme were then explained to the Inspector.—Mr Tomlins said he supposed they were going to have an outlet at low water.—The Engineer: Yes.—Mr Tomlins: What storage have you got ?—Both the Engineer and the Clerk replied that that matter had been gone into at another inquiry previous to the present one, but Mr Tomlins pressed his ques- tion.—The Engineer said he could let Mr Tomlins know in about ten minutes.—Mr Tomlins went on to contend that there was not sufficient storage to hold the store water in time of flo-jd, and that it would get into the hoiase from the sewers.—The Engineer said that very little would come into the sewers.— Mr Tomlins: Some of it will.—*The Engineer: Certainly, some of it.-The Inspector again expressed the opinion that the discussion was irrelevant to the question, and the Engineer said that Mr Tomlins explained that very question to the Inspector who helfl the previous inquiry, and put before him a very good scheme, so as to take in Mr Tomlins.—Mr Tomlins remarked that he did not see how it could, and was sharply reprimanded by the Inspector, who told him that possibly every- thing might not be given to him to understand.— Mr Tomlins: No, but I shall have to understand when it comes to paying. They are the biggest lot of fools we could have (laughter). Mr Tomlins was again called to order by the Inspector, who said he would not sit to hear the members of the Council called names.-—The inquiry shortly after- wards terminated. -—

DOLFOR. RENT AUDIT.—The Christmas rent audit of the tenants on the Dolfor and Llanbadarn estates of Mr W. Buckley Pugh, J.P., were held on the 2nd inst. at the village inn, under the presidency of J. E. Poundley, Esq., Black Hall. Dinner was served in first class style by Miss Davies. The usual loyal toasts were proposed in felicitous terms by the Chairman, whilst the toast of the eveuing was given by Rev S. Davies, vicar, that of Long life and health to the good and generous Squire." As usual this toast was received with cheers and musical honours. A similar reception was accorded the health of the Agent," proposed by Mr Chap- man, vice-chairman. After returning thanks Mr Poundley gave a capital and interesting speech on agricultural prospects, and the general outlook for 1897, and those who left the room on account of long distances, or for no reason in particular, certainly missed a great treat. Other toasts fol- lowed, and a pleasant meeting closed with best wishes for the new year. Both tenants and Non- tenants were grieved to hear of the serious attack of influenza which had again seized upon the squire. A landowner who spends nearly the whole of his rent receipts upon improvements, not only of his farms, but also the general advancement of every deserving cause, is not to be met with every day. Mr pngh's wide spread generosity is well known and appreciated, and most sincere are the wishes of all his friends in Wales for a speedy and permanent return to his wonted vigorous state of health. RATEPAYERS MEETING.—A well attended meet- ing of the principal ratepayers and others. was held in the Schoolroom on Wednesday the 6th inst. to discuss the question of dividing Kerry into wards. Rev S. Davies, vicar, presided, and in a vigorous speech impressed on those present the fact that Dolfor would never get its proper share of seats on the Parish Council without the establishment of wards. During the past year the two other divi- sions of the parish had most unfairly monopolised tt of the seats, and therefore the west end of the parish had had little or no voice in parish matters. The vicar advised them strongly to keep agitating until they had obtained A of the representation for the simple reason that they had to find £ of the rates. Mr Chapman who has championed the wards question at the Parish Council, with the aid and influence of the most important ratepayers on that body, next gave a resumfe of the work done or at least attempted by the council since its for- mation. He announced that four roads had re- ceived attention, and repairs were going on. Foot- paths would be improved in time and post office facilities increased. A strong resolution in favour of wards was passed with only one dissent.

The trial is proceeding at Yokohama of an Eng- lishwoman named Carew on the charge of murder- ing her husband by poisoning him. Mrs Caret's nursery governess, Mary Jacob, has been arrested, it being suggested against her that she is the author of certain letters in which the writer confessed that she had canted Mr Carey's death.

CORRIS. I WEDDING.—The following list of presents were recived by the Rev D. Frwdwen Lewis and Miss Jones, Corris House, on the occasion of their marriage:—Mr Owen Jones, Corris House, cheque Mrs Jones, Corris House, household linen Miss Katie Jones, Corris House, dinner service; Miss Jennie Jones,. Corris House, silver salt cellars and tea service Mr P Williams, Hopkinstowu, cheque; Miss Williams, TIopkinstown, cheque; Mr and Mrs Evans, Ferndale, oak and silver biscuit box Misses M H and S Evans, Ferndale, marble timepiece; Mr and Mrs Harries, Ferndale, silver coffee pot; Mr and Mrs Jones, New Shop, silver cake basket; Master 0 E Jones, embroidered toilet set; Rev and Mrs Jones, Machynlleth, embroidered satin and tea cosy Mr and Mrs Lloyd. Bank Place, Machynlleth, meat and game carvers in case; Miss Lewis, New- castle Emlyn, glass and silver butter dish Mrs Edwards, Towyn, pair of silver candlesticks Misses J E and L C Edwards, Towyn, silver and Crown Derby hot water jug Mrs" ArnfieJd, DolgeUey, silver and Crown Derby cake basket; Miss "Edith Arnfield, Dolgelley, plush album; Rev and Mrs Rowlands, Brunffynon, silver toast rack; Mrs Evans, London, embossed tea cosy Mrs Davies Caer- ffynon, cheese cover; Miss Davies, CaerffYlJon, ruby jam dish; Miss Williams, Minafon, trav cloth and d'oyleys; Mr and Mrs Ellis, Tanyfaen, watch stand and candlestick; Master Eddie Ellis, Tanyfaen, fancy lamp mat*; Miss Evans, Tanyfaen, pair of embossed ornaments; Master Ittiel Evans, Tany- faen, bread tray Mrs John Evans, Tanyfaen, ruby sugar basin and cream ing; Rev G P Thomas Fern- dale, drawing room lamp Mrs David Lewis,' Tany- faen, pair of photo frames; Mrs Jones, Chapel House, fruit dish; Mrs Pugh, Chapel Honse, pair of ornaments Miss Edwards, Machynlleth, sofa cushion; Miss Morgan, Bow Street, set of d'oyleys • Miss Evans, Frondeg, black teapot; Miss Edwards' Cenim,ic,z, pair of antique vases on brass fronts; Mrs Williams, Caerffvnon, ruby sugar basin and cream jug; Mrs Williams, Bryngoleu, silver; Mr J Williams, Bryngoleu, silver; Mrs Griffiths, Mach- ynlleth, pair linen sheets Mrs Lewis, Mnchvnlleth, glass water jug; Miss Annie Stuart George, plush jewellery box; Master Stuart Davy George, view of Llanfihangel; Mrs Lewis, Bryn Idris, pair of ornaments; Miss L M Bryn Idris, butter cooler; Mrs Hughes, Bronmeirion, ruby sugar basin and cream jug; Miss Owen, Bronmeirion, silver; Miss Maggie Edwaids, Bronmeirion, hot water kettle Mrs Lewis, Glanllifan, butter plates; Mr R W Lewis. Glanllifan, plush letter rack Mrs Lloyd, Liverpool, hot water jug; Mrs Jones, Tyny- ceunant, sugar basin and cream jug; Mrs Morris, antimacassars; Mr Jenkins, Ferndale, spoons and sugar tongs in case; Mr and Mrs Edwards, Aber- ystwyth, cheque Mr Dix, Brynawel, oak and silver ink siand; Miss Griffith, Llwyngwril, silver break- fast cruet: Miss Eunice Griffith, Llwyngwril, linen table cloth; Mrs Humphrey Jones, Bethania Terrace, table cloth; Mrs Griffith, Bethania Terrace, eggs; Mrs Jones, Bethania Terrace, water bottle and tumbler; Mrs Richard Jones; Bethania Terrace, brass fire irons; Miss M M Jones, Bethania Terrace, pair of ornaments; Master G Jones, Bethania Terrace, mustache cup and saucer; Mrs Griffiths, Neptune House, salad bowl and dish Mrs Pughe, Victoria Buildings, porcelain figures on [plush brackets; Miss Lewis, Glanynant, pair of antique figures; Mr J Evans, Glanynant, old fashion sugar basin and cream jug; Mrs Jones, Brynedwin, pickle jar; Miss Jones, Brynedwiii, cut glass ink bottle; Mrs Arthur and Miss Evans, G wynfryn, Morocco writing case; Miss Gwladys Arthur, Gwynfryn, ink bottle in case; Miss Edwards, Llandrindod, half-a-dozen cut glass tumblers; Mrs Roberts, Dafarn Newydd,'double jam dish; Mrs Williams, Dafarn Newydd, flower vase Mrs Owen, Dafarn Newydd, flower baskets; Master R. W. Owen, Dafarn Newydd, old fashioned wall placque; Mrs Richards, Dafarn Nowydd, wall placque Mrs Lewis, Dafarn Newydd; pair of flower vases; Mrs Jones, Dafarn Newydd, pair of pictures; Mrs Griffiths, Corris, flower basket; Mrs Richards, Corris, chenille table cover; Mr Jones, Abercorris, ink stand; Mrs Jones, Abercorris, trinket set; Mrs Thomas, Glanderry, pair of plush frames; Mrs Morgans, Glanderry, trinket set; Master J. D. Jones, Glanderry, pair of glass slippers; Master Richard Jones, Glanderry, cup and saucer oc "plush bracket; Miss Carrie Jones, Glanderry, inkstand Mrs Jones, Gaewern Uchaf, cake stand Miss Jones, Gaewern, pair of epergne flower vases Mr Richard Jones, Bethania Terrace, flower stand Miss M. Evans, Peniel House, ruby sugar basin and cream jug; Mr Arthur P. Davies, Newcastle Emlyn, album of views; Mrs Williams, Braichgoch Terrace, chenille table cover; Miss Roberts-, Ponty- pridd, tray .cloths Mias Owen, Tynvja^ea, haJf- spoon; Mrs uwen, Aemcadian, silver pickle fork, butter knife, and jam spoons; Miss Evans, Craigy- faeddu, sugar basin and cream jug; Miss M. Evans, Craigyfaeddu, bouquet of flowers; Master Johnnie Williams, Craigyfaeddu, flower. basket; Mrs Williams, Board School, tea cosy; Miss Hughes, Llanwrin, silver; Miss Williams, Rugog, flower stand Miss Coombes, Birmingham, set of trays a Friend, Family Bible; Miss Parry, Glandwyryd, pair of towels; Mr R. P. Ellis, Glandwyryd, mirror wall bracket; Mrs H. Ellis, pair of wall placques; Mrs Evans, Post Office, counterpane Mrs Theodore, Tanfron, butter cooler and jam dishes; Mrs Davies, London, tapestry table cloth; Mrs Griffith, Newcastle Emlyn, silver and glass jam dish; Mrs Hurnphreysi Abererynolwyn, meat carvers; Rev and Mrs Hoskins, Festiniog, silver bread scoop; Mrs Rees, Tanycoed, silver jam spoon, pickle fork and sardine fork; Mrs Jones, Piongaled, card basket; Mrs Owen, Gwynfryn. water bottle and tumbler; Miss Griffiths, Llainygroes, pair of vases; Mrs Hughes, Talysarn. Duchess set; Miss Jones, Dolybont, pair of flower vases; Misses Lizzie and Mary Lloyd, Tynyffridd, silver plated inkstand Miss Lewis, Abercwmeiddaw, pair of antique jugs on brass stand Mrs Rowlands, Tanycoed, pair of embossed ornaments Mrs Williams, Brynteg, three jam dishes; Mrs Heath, Tynyberth Hall, cut glass cake stand Mr and Mrs Vaughan, Aberystwyth, sofa cushions; Mrs Lewis, Towyn, hand-painted placque; Mrs Thomas, Tynyffridd, crazy wall placque Miss Williams, Bridge Street, pair of wall placques Mrs Francis Owen, view of Corris on stand; Mrs Owen, Arddol House, sardine dish and silk handkerchiefs Rev and Mrs Evans, Aberlle- fenny, silver sugar tongs; Mrs Jones, Mount Pleasant, celery glass; Mrs Jones, Foelfrwg cheque; Misses Fanny and Minnie Edwards, Man- chester, hand paintings; Miss James, Aberyitwyth hearthrug Mrs Job Caine and Miss Caine, Hills. borough, black teapot and pair of vases; Mrs Griffiths, Tanybryn, flower babket; Mr Williams, Hopkinstown, Down quilt; Mrs Davies, Pantycelyn, sugar basin and cream jug; Mrs Lloyd, Penrhiw, egg stand; Miss Price, Cardiff, work basket; Mrs Jones, Carnarvon, table cover; Miss Thomas, Car- narvon, silk apron Miss Davies, Oswestry, silver thimble in case Mrs Thomas, Derwenlas, table cloth Mr Owen, Aberdovey, silver tea pot; Master Richard Jones, Hafotty, cup and saucer; Mr Jones Portmadoc, tea service; Mrs Roberts, Towyn, flower stand Mrs Ellis, Aberdovey, tea pot stand Miss Lloyd, Pontypridd, chenille liangings; Mr Jenkins, Bristol, what-not; Mrs Davies, Barmouth fancy table. A gold watch chain together with a purse of gold, was also presented to Mr Lewis bv the congregation of Salem, Corris. Mrs Lewis'was also presented with a Bible by the members of th« Band of Hope at the Methodist chapel, at Corris.

LLANIDLOES. DEATH OF MRS. HAMER.-We have torecord the death which took place on Tuesday morning after a long and painful illness of Mrs Idward Hamer of Plynlymon House. Mrs Hamer who was 39 years of age, was the respected wife of his Worship the Mayor, Councillor Edward Hamer. DEED svJ, pathy is felt with Mr Hamer and the family in th^r great bereavement. The funeral took place the above society was held onSa^urday jS whe°n the chair was taken by the retiring presiden7 m! •,Th 8f?art; f Tke Management Committee 'su^ muted the statement of accounts for the quaver ending December the 5th, which was as follows:- The sales for the quarter amounted to £ 811 4« dn and the nett profits £ 105 lis 2d Bromrhf from last quarter £ 97 lis 2d totll posable £ 203 2s 5d. It Vas n^^ dl8' dividend of 2s lOd per £ on members purchase^ is 8d on members purchases of batchers meat placing £ 2 lis 5d to the reserve fund and ram™ forward £ 100 Is 2d During the quarter^en persons have jomed the society and two withdrawn President, Mr David Owen treasurer MrPil i Woosnam; secretary, R. H. Jermanj ^mmfttel S management, Messrs Bdwin Morgan Thril l and Edward Chapman. 'Thomaa Jones. THB I^ATB K& SLIAA DIFTV W chronicle the death of Mr Elias Dakfn manufacturer, which took place on Thursday week from the effects of blood-poisoning despite the un- remitting efforts of his medical attendant Dr Vaughan Owen. The deceased, who was 45 van.ro of age was a son of the late Mr Richard Dakin He and his brother, Councillor Id. Dakin were joint partners and constituted the firm of I Bros. They worked the Glynbrochan Factory for a number of years, and in 1392, their business having considerably extender!, they founded the Welsh Manufacturing and Woolstapling Company which. has sinco been wound up. The deceased who was a quiet person of retiring disposition, had a large circle of friends, and until recently was a member of the Llanidloes Town Council. He' was a member of the local lodge of Freemasons (1532), and at the time of his death was junior warden. He was also a member of the Welsh C.M. Chapel. The funeral of the deceased, which was a public one, took place amid every manifestation of regret on Monday, the remains being interred in Dolhafren cemetery. There was a large cortege from the resi- dence which included the family and relatives and a large number of his brother Masons. At the residence of the deceased and at the grave tho Rev T. Mordaf Pearce officiated. The Masonic burial se,, ico was performed by the Rev E. O. Joues, M.A., Provincial Grand Chaplain of North Wales, and the brethren, after the coffin bad been lowered deposited acacia sprigs upon it with sym- pathetic tenderness. The ceremonies were carried out with great solemnity, while the large attendance and the demonstrations of sympathy testiOed to the esteem in which deceased was held, and the regret felt at his decease. The coffin which was of beau- tiful polished oak with brass fittings, was supplied by Messrs Brown and Sons, bore the following inscription Elias Dakin, died January 7th, 1897 aged 45 years." Several wreaths were sent by relatives and friends, including a "magnificent wreath from the Masonic brethren.

0 MONTGOMERYSHIRE PARLIAMENTARY REGISTERS, 1897. T ie register of voters for the year 1897 was issued at the beginning of the year and consists, as usual, of two ,"ulumes-one for the county con- stituency and one for the borough constituency. The county register is prepared for publication by Mr G. D. Harrison (clerk to the County Council), and the borough register by Mr C. S. Pryce (Mont- gomery), after the overseers' lists have been revised and certified as correct by Mr Clement Elphinstone Lloyd (revising barrister). As the revision of all lists must be completed by October 12th at the latest, we See no reason why so long a period as nearly three months should be allowed for their correct arrangement and printing, and no doubt a considerable shortening of this period will be one of the provisions of the next Registration Act. By the present law these lists only come into force on January 1st, so there is, of course, no reason why they should be ready earlier but there seems no valid reason why their year of operation should not commence with November 1st, as is the case with the municipal lists. If this were done all new voters would be able to exercise the franchise two months earlier thaa they can at present. The number of voters on the county register for 1897 and for the previous two years are as below — 1895. 1896. 1897. Owners. 1,872 1,825 1,816 Occupation V oters Division 1 5,944 6,017 6,050 Division II 155 'l65 170 Lodgers. 18 17 18 7,989 8,024 8,054 It appears from the above figures that the numbers of voters in the county bave considerably increased during the last two years. This increase, too, has been entirely amongst the occupation voters, as the owners have actually declined in numbers from 1872 to 1816. This decrease of 66 names is, however, partly due to the fact that there are fewer duplicate names on the ownership list than there were some years ago. The occupation voters have greatly increased, those in Division 1. from 5,944 to 6,050, an increase of 106; and those in Division II. (service franchise) from 155 to 170, an increase of 15. As we believe the population of the rural portions of the county has decreased during the last two years this large increase of occupation voters would seem to show that more care is taken by the overseers and political agents that all persons qualified are placed on the lists. The largest proportional increase of voters this year is found in the Cemmes, Guilsfield, Sarn, Llanfihangel, and Aberhosan polling districts; whilst the largest decrease is found in Forden, Llanidloes, and Meifod polling districts. The number of voters on the borough register for 1897 and for the urevious two vears are as follows :— 1895. 1896. 1897. Llanfyllin 169 168 I08 Llanidloes 433 431 439 Welshpool 820 855 835 3,030 3,048 3,087 In this case, also, there is an increase of 57 voters during the two years, an increase being found in each of the boroughs except Llanfyllin, the largest addition being in Machymleth. +

REVIEWS. The Strand Magazine for January is, as usual, light and readable, with a profusion of illustrations. There is nothing very distinctive in Dr. Canon Doyle's "Life on a Greenland Whaler," and he will be welcomed when he appears in his favourite character of a story-teller, which he is to do shortly in the pages of this magazine. The Adventures of a Man of Science and An African Millionaire still run their course. Dr. Bernard's Patient" is a slight sketch with little in it. Told to the World," by Mrs Egerton Eastwick (Pleydell North) is written with much more power; nothing in the number is better worth reading. Among the shorter pieces > 0 the Curiosities," The greatest juggler in the orld," the solution of the Pro- fessor's Puzzles," article on the quaint "Beer- Markers of Munich, and the Black side of Animal Life." The Natly and Army contains some very good photograghic reproductions of Naval and military life, half-a-dozen of them relating to torpedos. The pages devoted to the Turkish forces will be turned over with interest. They give one an unexpectedly favourable impression of the physique of the Sultau's soldiers and sailors. Last week's number begins a romance of war and adventure under the title of Across the Salt Seas," by Mr J. Bloun- delle Burton. England's History, as depicted by famous painters (Geo. Newnes, Limited). Part 9 contains twenty pictures of the period of Cromwell and Charles II, among them being several by Mr E. M. Ward, R.A., one by Mr Ford Madox Brown and one by Mr Daniel Maclise, R.A. The Way of the Cross (Geo. Newnes, Limited), are well printed pictures of New Testament scenes' the current number containing views of Damascus, Lebanon, the Jordan, Jericho and Jerusalem. The first part of Harrison Ainsworth's tale of the Great Plague and the Fire of London is issued by George Newnes, Limited, in their Penny Library of Famous Books. The penisy Musical Library, published by George Newnes, Limited, contains the pretty duet, What are the wild waves saying ? a pianoforte piece The Vienna Guard Patrol," and a children's sonjr Dolly's Bedtime."

ThA Prince of Wales has intimated that the Queen does not intend to interfere in any way with the means which may be adopted to give a fitting commemoration to her unprecedented reign. At the same time it is pointed out that works of benevolence and mercy to the poor and the suffer- ing would see- to have the first claim. CAMBRIAN RAILWAYS. Approximate return of traffic receipts, for the week ending January 10, 1897. Miles open, 250. Passengers, parcels, horses, carriages, dogs, and mails, £ 1,767; mer- chandise, minerals, and live stock, £ 2,176; total for the week, £ 3,943 aggregate from commence- ment of half-year, £ 5,352. Actual traffio receipts for the corresponding week last year: Miles open, 250. Passengers, parcels, te., £ 1,697; merchandise, minerals, Ac., £ 2,066; total for the week, £ 3,763; aggregate from commencement of half-year, £ 5,052. Increase for the week, passengers, parcels, Ac., 970; increase, merchandise, minerals, Ac., £ 110; total increase for the week, £ 180; aggregate increase, passengers, parcels, Ac., £ 112; are gate increase, merchandise, minerals, Ac., 9188; aggregate increase from the commencement of half year, R". The Secretary for India has forwarded to the Lord Mayor of London the promised particulars as to the extent of the distress arising from the Indian famine. During the first week in January it appears, there were 1,200,000 persons in receipt of relief, and this number will certainly rise to over 2,000,000, and may exceed 3,000,000 at the worst time. It is estimated that the cost of the famine to the Indian Treasury will be from £ 4,000,000 to £ 6,000,000, reckoning the loss of revenue as well as the reliof expenditure. While the famine prevails private charity. should be mainly devoted to supplementing the Government's subsistence ration with small comforts, especially in the cam of the sick, the aged, and the infirm also to providing for orphans, and to aiding those who are struggling to do without Government re- liof.

FORDEN BOARD OF GUARDIANS. WEDNESDAY. A meeting of the above Boardi was held at the Workhouse, Col. Twyford presiding. There were also present: Revs. J. Sawyer and J. L. Lee, Messrs W. Rogers, J. Edwards, T. S. Pryce, D Howells, J. .il&yiga, J. Pryce Jones, E. Hughes, F. Langford, R. Dav ies, J. Pryce, T. Owen, and W. •« r *c TVi(fr» (i>>» yi, i -lit Tomley (deputy clerk). A SAD CASE. Among the relief cases brought forward by Mr Tomley was that of James Harding, Abermale. It appears that the man is suffering from a misfortune to his hand and is unable to work. He has been employed on the Cambrian Railway until last October as a platelayer for 29 years.—On a question being put to him, he said that the Company would not contribute to his support. He had been in a club in connection with the Railway Company, and had paid money in for years. The club had broken up and he had not received anything.- Mr J. Daviea thought the Board should ask the Railway Com- pany if they could give employment of some kind to Harding. He did not think that the Railway Company would wish a faithful servant of 28 years standing to be relieved from the rates, and he could not but believe that the attention of the Railway Company need only to be oalied to the case. He begged to move that.—The Rev. J. L. Lee seconded, but added that in his opinion the matter should be allowed to stand over for a month for enquiries to be made. If they approached the Railway Company and afterwards found out that they were in the wrong they would have to repent it.-MrJ. Davies eaid that the fullest enquiries had been made and there was nothing to be afraid of.- The proposition was afterwards carried. EXPENSIVE MILLINERY FOR THE INMATES. Mr Rogers said he should like to call attention to an item in a bill which he thought extravagance itself, and that was the cost of trimming six bonnets for the inmates of the Workhouse (£1 5s 8d). He thought that was more than the cost of the bonnets themselves, and expressed the opinion that sUQÀ matters should be referred to a Ladies' Committee. —The Rev J. L. Lee understood that the question bad already been referred to the matron. answer was giveu in the negative.—Mr J. Davie. said they could not do anything in the matter.— The Chairman But we can limit it in the future. —The matter dropped. THE WEIGHING MACHINE. The question of the Weighing machine was post- poned till the next meeting. STATISTICS. It was reported that the following amounts were distributed in out-relief daring the fortnight Montgomery district, per Mr R. Tomtey, JE11 3s, to 82 recipients; Welshpool district, per Mr J Fortune, X14 10s, to 100 persons; Worthen district, per Mr J. Oliver,,214 2s 4d, to 88 recipients. Number in the House, 99; vagrants relieved during the fort- night, 93. XASXH'8 REPORT. The Master reported that during the past fort- night the Rev J. E. Vize gave entertainments with the magic lanterns he had previously presented to the Union, and also kindly distributed tea, sugar sweets, and tobacco among the inmates. The annual Christmas tree, kindly given by Mrs Pryos (Gunley) and other ladies, was held on Friday, Colonel and Mrs Twyford being present, and every inmate and officer received a present. COLLSCTOR's REPORT. le The Collector's report, which was read and passed, eoncluded the business.

FORDEN. THE Diocesan Inspector reports :—" This school has passed an excellent examination in every group. The children in Group III showed a thorough know- ledge of the various subjects—Scripture,Catechism, History of the Churoh in England to the tinw of the Norman Conquest. The slate and paper work showed the sane accurate knowledge." WORKHOUSE TBSAT.—For the past ten years a committee of ladies, with Mrs Mostyn Price, F *1-' at their head, have provided for the inmate of the Forden Union an annual treat at Christmas time, and a repetition of the appreciated function occurred on Friday last. A. beautiful Christmas Tree, provided b/ Mr J. Naylor, of Leighton Hall, and handsomely decorated by the ladies of the committee, was set up, and each officer and inmate received therefrom a substantial gift. The dis- tribution was undertook by Mrs Mostyn Pryce, assisted by Lieut-CoL and Mrs Twyford, together with Miss Davies, of the Gaer Mill.—John Evans, an inmate, on behalf of all the inmates, spoke is grateful terms for the kindness shown to them OJl. those occasions. The ladies whose names appear below subscribed to the treat: Mrs Corbett-Winder, Mrs Curling, Miss Devereux Pryce, Mrs Hawks- worth, Mrs Huddleston, Miss Jones (Gungrog Hall), Mrs Twyford, Mrs Wild, Mrs Whitaker (Hampton Hall), and Mrs Tie.

PRINTING of every description executed with dispatch at the COUNTY TIMES Offioe, Welsh- Pool. First-olass Commercial Work a speciality. Estimates given.