The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

FOOTBALL NOTES. LBY "VETERAN."] A rare company assembled at Newtown to witness the Welsh Cup match between the home team and Aberystwyth, and amongst them I noticed a good sprinkling of the supporters of the visitors. The weather was bright and dry, but awfully cold, and the ground was very slippery and against good football. At tbo last moment Aberystwyth wiere deprived of the services of two good men in H. Smith and Dewi Hllis. Oswald James and G. Green took their places, and although both played well, they were not strongly enough built to cope with their powerful opponents On the whole the game was not a good one. This was partly owing to the slippery state of the ground and the inability « ef the visitors to adapt their play to it. The home team were much more at home on the hard ground and consequently were seen to better advantage, tut even they did not play up to their best form till the last ten minutes, and then they did go for all they were worth. At first the visitors could make 80 headway, and the home forwards pressed so '<I that the defence of Aberystwyth was taxed to the uttermost. Here it was that the visitors showed their atrengtk in this half, and W. R. Jones, J. H. Edwards, M. T. Williams, and Boose defended admirably. The forwards of Newtown in the first ten minutes did capital work till near goal, and then the shooting waa ao weak that Roose had not more than one really difficult shot to deal with. The shooting for some reason lacked sting. The players mentioned above had a voioe in the imatter, for they worried the Newtown forwards Well and scarcely gave th-M a clear opening. After a bit the seandere had a turn, and then for the re- maining portion of the first half we had a fast Aing-dong game, with Jack being just as good as bis master. Rea put in aome good runs and (Centres, and J. F. Jones on the other wing did like- wise, while Morris dodged about well, but was not allowed to have a clear opening. Behind, J. H. Edwards was playing a ndendid game, and W. R. and Rooee quite up to their best form, so that the -home defenders had plenty to do. But rhe cool and clever Tucker and his tto mates, with Rees and Charlie Parry behind them, were equal to all the snlls made on them. Of the Newtown front rank W. Parry and Nock were far away the best men mod they dia some capital work till near goal. The other wing was not fed so well ana consequently fcad fewer chances of shining. With a clean sheet at half-time it seemed anyone's same, but the àpèrior stamina of the home team asserted itself are long. The wind was rather strong and more than made tip for the hill which was against .hem, and in this half they certainly had the best of natters. It was some time before the first goal -.me, and this was partly due to a slip on the part ot Roose. All the same the goal was well worked -for, and J. Swettenham was the man who did it. This sucoees of the Newtown men did not in the least discourage Aberystwyth who put more life into their play and foir a time rather more than teld. Rea and J. P. Jones, the outside men, did tome capital work—good runs and centres-but poor Morris, although he dodged round cleverly, was too carefully looked after to pat in one of his characteristic runs. For some time I was expecting him to break through in his usual way and score Bea and J. F. Jones sent in grand shots, and twice at least the goal was only missed by inches. Uheered en by their frienda at last the home team got up the steam and for the last 10 minutes they played a great game. The backa and halve: put the ball well for the forwards, who were compelled to do their best, and the result was that two more goals were added-and these two the beet of the day. Newtown were the better all round team. I have seldom seen E. Rees play a better game. C. Parry, too, was good, though Rees, in my opinion, aid best on the day. Tucker waa the best of the lialves, with Gentle close up. Teddy Davies was ,ft the sick list and not fit to play, though he ftlnckily did no, and often with great credit. The forwards I have noticed. At close quarters they were weak during the first half. W. Parry was the best man all through. Of the visitors, W. B. Jones tud Edwards played superbly. M. T. Williams in the fint half worked hard but the slippery ground did not suitO him. Boose, though unwell, was him. alf-oool and pluoky-and it was not his fault that kis side lost. Bea and J. F. Jones made inne fine spurts and centres. Morris was too carefully watched to be dangerous. Neither the play or players should be subjected to much severe criticism on such a day. Considering the ground, both did well, and if Aberystwyth had been fully represented the result might easily have been reversed. The game was a pleasant one, not. withstanding the ground and weather. I viewed the match from my frieod's grand stand with the «sual old fogies in attendanoe. One elderly gentle- B»an present oould not understand why the Referee allowed the players to kick the ball out so much. He said it was a game of out and in," and as he kad paid to see football he did not like all this! waste of time. There yon are," said he, out in." That's a comer surely." No, that's a throw-in," said an old footballer. Why, that gentletran in the centre of the field gave those ohaps in green a corner just now for it." We ex- plained that the ball was then sent over another line called the goal line. He could't see it and evidently thought the Referee didn't know his own inind, or did things in a kap-haserd sort of way. There were certainly too many "out agains" onr Saturday, and I agree with this gentleman, that the present thiow in is not sufficient punishment for a deliberate kick out. Now for the Oswestry victory which may well be described in the words of old Kaspar "'Twas a famous victory." As I came down from the fore- going match I was besieged with enquiries aa to the result of the fight between the Druids and Oswestry and when I was able to say "Oswestry 3, Druids 1 I was met with something like this reply, What P Oswestry lick the Druids P Ger-hoot." And when I assured my hearers it was quite correct Good old Oswestry was ahouted heartily, and if ever a team deserved congratulations on a well-earned victory, the United did on Saturday. They met the team that many knowing enea considered the favourites for the Cup, and beat them fairly, squarely, and on their merits, and, what is a great factor in the case, on the Druids ground. The match was worth going milea to witness, and a capital company lined the ropes. The ground, here as elsewhere, was very slippery but no serious accident occurred. Even p%y characterised the opening of thfl game, Oswestry havingslopeand wind in their favour, and in leas than five minutes Pierce laid the hall at Benbow's feet who promptly placed it safe. This goal was the result of good combined play and was well worked for. Before the cheers had well died away Trevor Owen gave Edwards a jrood shot to manage, but while hevu fumbling, J. Taughan rushed up and scored an unexpected one. After tliis both goalkeepers had plenty to do, but so further scoring took place up to half-time. In the second portion the Druids started warmly, and the Oswestry defence had a very sultry time for a bit but F. Lewis and Jim Edwards were playing a champion game, and with the three half-backs also in fine form, the Druids forwards could not pene- trate. A little rough play took place, and fouls were frequent. Pierce was making rings round the Druids' left-half and back, an 1 soon, after dodging- both, centred again beautifully to Gooderich, who made no mistake with a lightning shot. The same tactics were indulged in shortly after. and War kin only missed by a few inches. The Druids were played nearly out, and lost heart, and when Pierce finished up another brilliant run with a fine goal it was all over, and friend Pritchard, who had been worked up to a terrible pitch of excitement, now felt at peace with all the world. A happier man did not exist on Saturday arteruo III than the worthy hon secretary of the Oswestry Club, and no man deserved his measure of happiness more thoroughly than this energetic and courteous secre- tary. But to the play. Just before time, Benbow nearly brought off a fourth goal, only missing by the merest trifle. On the day's play the best team undoubtedly won, and they well deserve their handsome victory. All round the men played well, from goalkeeper right through the line, there wis not a weak or poor spot. Pierce never played such a great game, he was quite a class above the opposing defence, and made little of their efforta to rob him. He ought to be certain of his" cap" this year for he is the best outside right in this district. If there is a better player in \Vales at present I have not seen him. Edwards in goal did capital work, though he was a trine slow with the first goal scored against him. Afterwards he made no mis- take at all. Frank Lewis and Jim Edwards worked tremendously hard all through. The three halves tackled, fed, and kicked with great judgment m l dash. Morris Parry and Lloyd were the best and the latter paid most loving attention to Trevor Owen-never giving him a chance to be dangerous. The combination of the forwards was capital. Of the losers, Upton could not be blamed for any of the goals scored against him. The fault lay with the backs who were weak in kicking, though strong enongh in temper—especial;/ Thomas. No fauli could bo found with the halves, who tackled well. Trevor Owen and Morris were the best of the for- wards, but J. Vaughan was hurt early in the game and did not play up to form. Joy and sorrow go hand in hand, and while the Oswestry players and spectators are naturally jubilant over their success I trust they will uot forget that one of their old players—Dick Jones, or Dick the Mangier" as he is generally stvied -lies in a most dangerous state of illness. Poor Dick has a large family poorly provided for in this his time of need. Who will help ? The United Com- mittee, I believe, have done something for him, but this is not enough. Everyone must sympathise with him, bjt the sy^athv in the shape of half- crowns and shillings ia what is required at pre-ent. Great interest was taken in the Bangor v. Wrex- ham match, and a large crowd assembled on the Ban*or ground to witness it. There was the same kind of weather as at other places. Wrexham won the toss, and, playing with a stiong wind behind them soon became dangerous, Arridge in goal saving twice in the first 10 minutes. Bangor then woke np. and the forwards raced away. Charlie Jones missed a certain goal by kicking over the bar when close in. Buckland next tested Jardine with a fine shot. Still keeping the steam up Bangor continued to press, aud the forwards played extremely welL Ritchie Jones at last beat Jardine with a grand shot 25 minutes from the start. Wrexham then set to work and gave the home backs plenty to do—both being equal to the occasion. Bangor again became prominent and W. Lewis only just missed the net. From the goal-kick the Wrexham forwards raced away, and Pugh, from a pass by Ben Lewis, equalised with a low swift shot just before half- time. The play in the second half was fast and exciting, both Jardine and Arridge being called upon on several occasions in the first 20 minutes. Wrexham then assumed the upper hand, and the home goal had one very narrow escape. A. corner for Wrexham caused further anxiety to the Cap holders, but Sam Roberts cleared, and Dick Owen racing away, caused Jardine to handle. Jardine in a moment had to save a stiff shot by W. Lewis. Just in the last few minutes Bangor swarmed round the visitors' goal, and Jardine had a very warm time, a corner being conceded as the whistle blew. The teams were evenly matched, and the next match at Wiexham will be most interesting. Although the Wrexham players will have choice of ground the Bangor men are quite at home on it, and as last year will fight every inch of the way. Welshpool went to Llanidloes on Saturday, but not with a full team. Although it was their day out they found the home team just too good for them. An amusing incident occurred aa the players stepped on the field te play. This was the appearance of three men in oorduroys and blaok faces freeh from theit- w<>rW»~ interested in game that they were afraid of being tate if they went home to change and wash, and afterwards all three played a good game. From the start it was soon seen that the home team were the better men. The visitors were evidently suffering from want of practice, and their com- bination was at fault. G. H. Mytton and Westby, the two outside men, played a dashing game, bnt they could make little impression on the solid combination opposed to them. The hero of the Welshpool team—indeed, the hero of the day- was the veteran goalkeeper, Dick Evans, who in his very best days never played a more brilliant game. Players and spectators alike were delighted with bis performance and he un- doubtedly saved bis side from a more crushing defeat. All the home players did well. J. O. Owen, who has been selected to play in the North v South match, played most brilliantly all through, and quite justified his inclusion in this trial game. If the Llanidloes men had played in the same form against Knighton they would have won. The Llanfairites have a strong team of juniors, and on Saturday succeeded in snatching two points from the Welshpool Albion, but the value of their victory is discounted by the fact that the losers only played eight men. If the latter had placed a full team on the field the margin of two goals would probably have disappeared. The winners played a nice gentlemanly game. To-day the Druids, smarting from their defeat by Oswestry, visit Welshpool, and as the home team distinguished themselves by their very creditable performance againpt Oswestry in the Cup-tie, the ancient ones will undoubtedly try to make things hot for Welshpool for their failure last week. The home team mean to try their hands or feet at the warming process, and a grand game should be witnessed. JIBST-CLASS LBAGUB. y The following are the results up to and including Monday last:— Goals P. W. L. D. fTT. Pts Aston Villa 20 12 4 4 43 29 28 Liverpool. 24 11 7 6 39 28 23 Derby County. 22 12 7 3 54 37 27 Evertou 20 11 6 3 42 29 25 Sheffield United 20 8 4 8 32 19 24 Preston North End. 19 8 4 7 40 26 23 West Bromwich A. 23 9 9 5 25 36 23 Bolton Wanderers. 19 9 6 4 29 22 22 Sheffield Wednesday 21 7 7 7 30 28 21 Notts Foreet 22 -7 10 5 33 38 19 Blackburn Bovers. 22 8 11 3 24 47 19 Wolverhampton W. 21 6 11 4 30 29 16 Bury 18 4 6 8 23 31 16 Stoke 21 6 12 3 31 48 15 Burnley. 19 4 9 6 27 38 14 Sunderland 23 4 13 6 23 40 14 WZLSH LIAGCE. The following are the results up to and including Saturday lawst:- Goals. r w L » Pr Ag Pte j Oswestry 9 7 1 1 25 8 15 Druids 9 6 0 3 22 10 15 Newtown 11 6 4 1 39 13 13 Brymbo 11 4 5 2 22 14 10 Aberystwyth 12 5 7 0 20 30 10 Westminster Bovers 11 4 6 1 17 48 9 Chirk* 10 5 5 0 18 16 8 Ehostyllen 10 3 6 1 20 24 7 Welshpool 9 1 7 1 6 27 3 Chirk have had two points deducted for playing an ineligible man. WORTH SHBOP8HIBB ANB DISTRICT JUNIOR LMAGUS. The following are the results up to and including Saturday eat Goals P W L D TT Pts EUesmere Bangers 7 6 0 1 51 6 13 Whittington 8 4 3 1 25 21 9 Oswestry Reserve. 4 3 1 0 27 4 6 Whitchurch Reserve 4 3 1 0 22 6 6 Sweeney United 5 2 3 0 8 21 4 Ruyton-xi-Towns 7 2 5 0 9 34 4 Baachurch 7 0 7 0 3 52 0 WBLSHPOOL JUNIOR LEAGUE. The following are the results up to and including Saturday last:- Goals r w L D Fr Ag Pts Powysland 2 2 0 0 7 4 4 Llanfair 3 2 1 0 11 2 4 Albion 2 1 1 0 5 2 2 Excelsiors 3 0 3 0 3 18 0 THE CAMBRI' N LEAGUE. The following are the results up to and including Saturday last:— Goals. P. W. L. D. F. A. Pts T)wyn 8 5 2 1 23 11 11 Dolgclley 7 4 1 2 23 17 9 Portmadoc 8 4 4 0 21 17 9 Biaeuau Festiniog 9 3 4 2 15 23 8 Barmouth 8 2 3 3 17 22 7 Penygroes 5 0 4 1 4 13 1 WELSH CUP.-FOURTH ROUND. DRUIDS V. OSWESTKY UNITED. This tie was played 01i Saturday at Wynnstay Park, Ruabon, when there was a largo concourse of spectators, 500 coming by sppciai train from Oswestry. There way a strong wind blowing and the ground was in a very slippery state. Both teams were fully re- presented, W. P. Jones re appearing in the Druids ranks after a few weeks' absence, and Roberts, for tho firs! tim" after his aceiderit in the Shropshire Cup-tie with Iron Bridge, for the United. The Referee was Mr J. Taylor, Secretary of the Welsh Football Association. The following were the teams:—Druids: Goal, Upton; bucks, W P JoneR (capt.) and C Th mas; half-backs, T Davies, W Evans and D Evans; right wing, J Vaughan and Wm Butler; left wing, Wynn Morris and W Butler; centre, Tiovor Owen. Linesman, Mr J Wilkes. O-'wesrry United: Goal, Edwards; backs, Jim Edwards (capt.) and Frank Lewis; haif-backs, t Parry, E Lloyd and W Roberta rig it wing, J Pierce and Plimmer; left wing, E Watkins and II Gooderich centre, F Benbow. Linesman, Mr J Evans. The visiting skipper wou the toss and elected to play with the wind, and down the slope, Trevor Owen commenced hostilities, and the home forwards saon made their presence kuown, Wm Butler kicking out when he had a good opening. From the kick-off Watkins, Plinnner and Benbow fo- d the play to the other end, and from a throw- iri Lie visiting forwards swarmed round the goal, Beubow notching the fust point out of a scrim- mage amid loud cheers. The Druids' forwards now took up the running, and a bit of loose play by J. Edwards let T. Owen in, who shot in Edwards's h inds, and, beforehe could recover himself, Vaughan sent him and the ball in the net, thus equalising the score. Good tackling by D. Evans brought the ball to the visitors'quarters, but Lloyd cleared well. A good run by Watkins ended in Uptou conceding a corner, Plimmer skimming the crossbar from the free kick. Trevor Owen now essayed a good run, but hands against W. Batler spoiled a good chance. A minute later Goodcricl. brought Upton to bis knees to save a daisy-cutter. A foul against the visitors near goal came to nothing, Vaughau send- ing over the bar. A mis-kick by the home captain let Pierce in, but his final effort went wide. Foul against Lloyd looked bad, but Lewis, who up to now had been playing a good defensive game, relieved with a huge kick. Morris aid Butler made a pretty run, and sent across to Vaughan, who shot wide. Lewis cleared a splendid shot from Butler, but Trevor Oweu got hold and sent high over the bar. Watkins essayed a good run bu shot wide, Plimmer following suit a minute later. A run by Owen was checked by Roberts, but the home left got. pos- session and Edwards cleared a splendid shot by Morris in ciever fashion. From now to half-time play was pretty even, both goals being visited in turns, and when the whistle sounded the score was equal-one goal each. On restarting the homesters, with the wind and slope in their favour, did the pressing, Edwards being called to save ugly shots from Owen, Wm. Butler and Morris, and had to coucede a corner off the latttr's. shot, but Lewis cleared splendidly. Play now became very rough, fouls being frequent on both sides. A good com- bined rush by the home forwards ended in Trevor Owen kicking out. Lloyd fouled Trevor Owen badly, and frjin the free-kick Vaughan sent high over the bar. A run by Morris looked dangerous but, Morris Parry tackled and sent right about. Hands against Druids gave Pierce possession, who essayed a good run but his final effort went wide. For the next few minutes the homesters were con- tinually bombarding the United citadel, but their shooting was very erratic. Wynn Morris beat M. Parry and passed to Owen, but Lewis dispossessed him and sent well up the field. T. Davies grazed the upright with a long shot which deserved a better fate. From the kick-off Pierce got possession, and after beating three of his opponents, finished up a brilliant run by banging it across the goal mouth, and Gooderich made no mistake in giving his side the lead with a wen-deserved goal. Jim Edwards cleared well when the goal was in danger. A corner fell to the homesters looked bad but Jimmy Vaughan headed over. A minute later Lewis bad to kick out a shot from Trevor Owen. The home- corners, visitors defence was as sound as a rock, especially Frank Lewis. A foul against D. Evans cave Pierce possession, aud again ho treated the spectators with a magnificent run, but. his final shot went a little wide. I i, mis-kick by Charlie Thomas gave Watkins a chance and sent, the ball well in goal, but Plim- mer shot wide From a foul against Plimmer the visiting custodian had to concede a fruitless corner. Immediately after, Pierce ended another brilliant run by scoring a magnificent goal, which gve Upton no chance whatever. Fr 1m now to the finish the homesters were a beaten team, Upton saving well from Watkins and Pierce, and wlren the whistle blew for time the visiting forwards were round the bome goal, and the Druids had to retire beaten by 3 to 1, for the first timo this season on their own ground. NEWTOWN v. ABERYSTWYTH.—Those teams met at Newtown before a capital gate. Aberystwyth won the toss and the home team kicked off against a fairly stiff breeze, but had the hill in thir favour. From the kick off a foul was given aeiinst Aberys- twyth for handling and the home team worked he ball down to goal but W. R. Jones headed out well. Still going strongly A. Swettenham shot in bnt Roose had no trouble ia returning. J. H. Edwards robbed Nock and kicked into tonch. A call for handling near Aberystwyth goal next occurred and Ed. Rees, who took the free kick sent it right in goal but M. T. Williams was back. Rees soon had another free kick. W.R. met the ball and sent it up to C. Parry who tried a long" shot which went over. Tucker tackled nicely and sent the ball to W. Parry, who in turn passed to Nock and the latter kicked over the bar. Even play followed for a time. From hands against Rea, A. Swettenham got possession but his final shot was wide. J. H. Edwards by tricky play secured the ball but a clever pass to J. F. Jones travelled a little too far and went out. From the throw in Roose had a hot shot to negotiate, but he saved in a very cool fashion. J. Swettenham next shot in and W.R. kicked out. C. Parry from a free kick landed the ball well in goal where there was a tough scrim- mage, but W.H. kicked the ball away. A foul against Aberystwyth near goal was dangerous. Ed. Rses took it and sent to W. C. Parry who made a poor shor, t,) his own disgust. W. Parry from his favourite corner sent in a fine centre, which W.R. as cleverly saved. Up the hill the ball travelled and C. Parry quickly returned it. D. Morgan handled and E. Rees from the free kick sent the ball behind. After travelling about a bit the ba.n found its way to W. Parry, who again sent in a good centre which was with difficulty got away. The home team kept the ball too near the visitors' goal to be pleasant for them. At last Rea received the ball, and a nice passing run between himself and Morris ended in the ball being kicked over the line by the latter. Rca vva5 next prominent with a good run bnt hands against Oswald James robbed the visitors of a good chance. Later on, J. H. Edwards in saying, kicked the ball hard against Nock and the wily Roose L h18 work to do in clearing. A. Swettenham NIM.J return bnt kicked ont. The ball was well kicked off by Roose, and Rea, on receiving it ran a little and then passed to J. F. Jones who shot near but behind. Another shot from a foul against Nock was sent behind. Gentle saved nicely from Morris, and then Rea wound up a good ran with a correct centre which Rees returned. In the next minute Tucker cleverly robbed Rea and gave to Morgan who kicked too far and lost a good chance. Morris and Rea were pro. minent with a fine passing run, which Rees pre- vented effect. Aberystwyth pressed for a time then W. Parry sailed nicely along the left, and cleverly passed to Nock who lost an easy chance. J. F. Jones and A. Ellis sprinted up the right but were compelled to kick out. This was repeated and then a foul was given against I). Morgan. This was taken by C. Parry but Nock kicked over. Rees re- turned the goal kick and Morgan put a stop to an ugly rush on his goal. Even play for a time was followed by a good run by A. Ellis and J. F. Jones. A corner to Newtown was well placed by W. Parry, and W. R. headed over. Another followed, which was well saved by J. H. Edwards, and soon at the other end C. Parry was compelled to kick out from a dangerous rush by the whole of the visitors' for- wards. Ellis sent out from a free kick for bands. Good play by Morris and J. F. Jones ended in a goal-kick. The ball was sent on to W. Parry who was robbed by J. H. Edwards when near goal. A corner followed, which was well saved. Rea got away and passed over to J. F. Jones who finished a bit of good work with a shot which skimmed the bar. Rea, with Oswald James, carried on the assault; and from the former's centre A. Ellis headed over. Even play followed till half-time. From the kick-off the home team put on pressure and ere long gained a corner. Nothing came of it, though there was an ugly scrimmage near the top goal. A succession of throws-in followed, and then Roose stopped a fine shot by J. Swettenham. ihis was repeated and then Tucker by good play transferred the ball to vV. Parry who dashed the ball acros-i goal and W. R. Jones saved in a regular rush. W R. a minute afterwards was called upon and he cleverly returned. Tucker and W. Parry put in some clever work about now. From a foul against. Aberystwyth for handling, J. Swettenham sent a stinger at goal. Roose saved, but the ball wa's returned, and loud cheers greeted the first goal for the home team. Oswald James and Rea got down from the kick-off but the former sent behind. Hands against Aberystwyth near goal nearly led to its do.vnfail, but M. T. Williams kicked out in the nick of tim". Rea ended a very fine run with a good cen' r", which E. Roes coolly saved. W. Parry shot a few inches wide, and soon after A. Swettenham got dangerous, but sent out. Aberystwyth pressed a little and Rees saved by kicking out. A corner to Aberystwyth followed.. The ball was well placed, but C Parry headed out. Soon after Teddy Davids headed an utrly Rhot out of the road. Even plav followed for a time, a:ld after E. Rees had saveo from Rea, A. Swettenham sent a go. d thot at Hoose, who fisted it back half way down the field. Edwards was callel upon by Morris, and he saved cleverly. From hands t3gainst 1. Swettenham Tucker returned and W. Parry got awiy. He passed to A. Swettenham, who shot just over. Rea concluded a fine run with a splendid centre, which just skimmed the upright. The home forwards raced up the hill, and A. Swettenham, ttf- r a good u, run, sent just over the cross-bar. R,a and his partner forced a corner, and after an exciting scrimmage J. F. gent the ball behind. Good play by the home team followed, and then after a scrimmage W. Parry made the game fairly safe for his side by scoring a second goal. Nothing daunted the visitors' forwards dashed down, and on'y the grand defence kept them out. Soon the ball was transferred to the other end, and Nock scored the third and best goal. Very few minutes remained for play, aod both teams strove hard to the last, but no more scoriug took place. no more scoriug took place. WELSHPOOL JUNIOR LEAGUE. ALBION v LLANFAIR.-The fight for the second position in the League tabie came off last Saturday on the Town ground. Llanfair brought a very string team, and the Albionsonly placed eight men upon the field. There was a fair attendance of spectators who expected to witness a good game as the Llanfairites are renowned fightets, but owing to the weak team the home side played they were dis- appointed. The opening stages werH rather in favour of the Atbion, no goals being scored for some tima, but eventually, thy were pressed back to their own defence by superior numbers. A very uninteresting game followed ending in a win for Llanfair by two goals t-i none. FOOTBALL MATCHES. LLANIDLOES T WKLSHPOOL UNITED.—Played OIl the ground of tho former on Saturday before a mpngre attendance. I he teams were as follows:— Llanidloes: Goal, T George; backs, T Hampton and li Davies half-backs, D Jones, E Hamer, and T Hamer; forwards, J 0 Owen, W H Hughes, J Jones, E Wood, and R Evans. Welshpool: Goal. R Evans; backs, J Jones ttud E Davies half-backs, Holloway, Mytton, find W Davies; forwards, Mytton, Crank, Hntchins, Westby, and Lloyd. The visitors won the toss atid comrnenced operations with a strong wind at their backs. The visitors goal was immediately assailed and Kvaus was called upon to clear. Even play resulted until Mytton relieved the monotony by kicking (whind. The home forwards now W(h¡t up in a line arid from a good centre by Wood, Owen was enable( to beat Evans with a splendid shot. Nettled by this reverse the visitors infused more life into their play, but Hampton and Davies warded off all attacks. Keep- ing the preseare Westby shot over. D. Jones secured and passed to Owen, who after running clean through several opponents registered No 2 fortliallomestern with a good shot out of Evans's reach. Tha homesters coni.jmied to press strongly, during which D. Jonerr, J. JoneP, and E. Hamer, showed np prominently. Evans having to save several stinging shots, until the globe was worked behind. Mytton was n6w in evidence, bnt "vas nicely robbed by Hamer, who transferred to, J Jones, that player finisbing up with a shot which skimmed the upright Evtms in tha centre at this stage was keeping his wingg in good order, and some good combination was shown by the home team, whilst on the other hand the play of the visitors was not what we,were led to expect from them, their play being chiefly confined to individual efforts. From an onslaught on the home goal D. Jones got; possession, Mhl after a smart dribbhj tnittaforaad -to. iftko.. in tupn passed btvek again, Jones finisher! by sending in a elinking shot which Sootty in trying to pave put through his own goal. Welshpool now took op the attacl;, nut were repulsed by Davies. Not to be denied they came again, and after some nice play between Mytton and Cronk, tho latter was enabled to score a omewbat lucky goal owing to George missing his kick, thus registering the first and ¡,nly point, of the visitors. Half-time was shortly afterwards called. Immediately upou resuming* the home team with the wind in their favour began to press, and kept up a continual bombardment of the visitors' goal. Hamer on one occasion exparienced hard lines with a grand shot that hit the cross-bar and bouueed over. Tho visitors seldom crossed the half way line, and corner kicks were frequent. During this half, Mytton at veutre-half, defended grandly, pulling up the home forwards repeatedly. Foil iwicg a prolonged siege in the visitors stronghold, during which the visitors custodian kept out shot after shot, Evans was at last successful in neuing the globe, and the score at the finish was Llauidloes 4, Welshpool 1. ABERYSTWYTH COLLRGB V. TOWTN.-On Saturday last the Aberystwyth College received as their visitors the present chanipions of the Cambrian League—Tcwyn. Considering the severe frost of the previous days the ground was in a very playable condition. The College-wou the toss and elected to play down hill, the arrangement between the captains of both teams being for 40 minutes each way. Tho College immediately commenced the It,, ri-essive, bnt subsequently for the first quarter of an hour play was condnerf to mid field and was of a very givo and take nature. Up to now combina- tion was more promineni *n College ranks. T,)vvyil, ti(iwever, began to liven up, and a nice pass from Joe Edwards from the left wing was barely saved by Pryce Jones. Towyn now pressed, but certainly lacked colnbiiiution. Play was again reversed, the College attarking, and ruh nicely cleared. Geo. Davies nelt possession, and with Joe Edwards and Jlason seemed likely to succeed, but Brownley gallantly came to the rescne of the Coliege. Towyu still were pressing, and a well judged shot by Daniel went just wide of the mark. Up to now the College seemed to play the defensive. D. M. Jones and Walerhonsc com- menced to show their old form, but Jones sent in a very erratic shot. From the kick-off Joe Ed wards for Towyn got hold of the leather and centred nicely, Pryce Jones saving, but Geo. Davies being on thb spot" got poaseaaio" and drew first blood for Towyn. This seemed to liven up the visitors Gladstone Daries missing a splendid chance two minutes later. Edwards ,ain got possession, and with the assistance of his confrere Davies, showed some nice play, as the res-alt, of which Geo. Davies accounted for goal No. 2. Immediately afterwards Joe Edwards put in a bearJty, just skimming the bar. Tho College defence were severely taxed, and Blackhonso and Mellor saved their team a lot. A spasmodic rush by the ColleKe resulted in Pugh conceding them a corner, which ended in nothing. Hands awarded Towyn twenty yards from tht) College goal was cleverly warded off by Mellor, and soon afterwards Pagh goes quits," this also being ineffectual far as the College were concerned. Two minutes before half-time Owen Davies was called upon to save for the first time. Renaming, Towyn started off with a canter, Mellor conceding a corner, the result of which Edwards øafely landed in within a minute of replay, and within utiotber minute, Mason accounted for No 4. The game again reverted to mid-field. Towyn still seemed determined and in spit3 of the efforts of Jones, Waterhouse, and Moor. man, they CDntinned to press and their combination became more and more noticeable. A sweet slider" by Llew Nilliaing just missed. Owen for Towyn was just commencing his old form and was working hard, judiciously, and effectively. Ten minutes from time Gladstone Davies bad a goal at his mercy but over stepped his judging mark. Two minutes off-time George Davie3 had a similar change but missed, and on the last half minntc by a most miraculously well judged "gallery shot Jim Owen accounted for No 5 on Towyc'a behalf. On the play Towyn were by far and away the bettor team and their victory were well earned. The defence was very conspicuous, and indeed the combinat ion shown last Saturday, if maintained, is an example to many other football teams. THB NEWTOWN TND~ ABERYSTWYTH MATe g. rBy an Occasional Contributor.] Cup matches are not, a3 a rule, brim-full of scientific play, but the winning team generally turn out to be the stronger and keener fighers, although the defeated eleven show the better foot- ball. This, however, was not the case on Saturday, for the weather upset altogether good football, and the frost-bound Cunnings, with its powdered surface of fine snow, was as trencherous as any ground could he under similar circumstances. The game was ail for the backs and half-backs, the forwards not b-itig in it; and, comparing the two back divisions, the visitors proved as stubborn as the home eleven, notwithstanding the presence of Parry, the old I Kverronian. On (ho side of Aberystwyth, W. R Jones ("' the little chap with the specs. as he was kn>wn to the crowd) put more !ife into the game th HI any player on the ground. He had a mar- vellous knack of ker-pi Jg his feet, on the hard turf, aud there was half a suspicion as to the quality of his boot bars, which, however, the referee found to be free from nails after a second examination. Of course, if the ground had been softer, the score would have been larger, for Newtown have proved themselves good fighters on hea.y ground. On the other hand, the Aberystwyth forwards would have troubled Edwards wir.h more shot.-? than what they did on Saturday bad the conditions be different. Bv-the-bye, one of the prettiest shots in the game was one sent in by J. F. Jones, the visitors' outside right, who drove the ball 011 to the cross bar from a flying run on the line. W. Parry and Nock were disappointing in the first half, and found J. H. Fff wards a hard nut to era k. He ought to have played with Rea on the left, but one of the players- Smith, I fancy his name to be-not turning up, he went to the half line and a champion game he plared. There were only three men of the visitors who seemed to get hold of the ball, and those were D. Morgan, Edwards and W. R. Jones, and in scores of instanees it seemed they landed by mere acci clent in the exact spot where the ball fell. These r three players axe heavy weights and perhaps this was the secret of their success. Rees, for the New- town team, is as safe as ever be was, and he has I not lost the tricky play which distinguished him years ago. Tne Swettenhams could not play the same game Oil ice-covered ground as they have shown on other occasions, and some idea might be gathered of the players' difficulties when I say that oftentimes a six yards sprint became a dozen yards slide. Well, Newtown have won; season after season have I seen them creeping up almost within sight of the silver goblet, only to get a nasty knock out in the last lap. Here's luck to them and may the best team win. The men from the seaside are deserving of congratulation for their great achieve- ment for so young a club, and the stimulus given to the Association game in North Cardiganshire, owing directly to the energies of several good sportsmen at Aberystwyth and with them the Town team, should be remembered with gratitude by lovers of the game, not forgetting to render to the IQsers of Saturday match the sincere sympathy to which the defeated eleven are always emit led. FOOTBALL FIXTURES. All matches played on the ground of the first- named club. JANUAHT. 30 Sweeney United v Oswestry R. FEBRUARY. 6 U C Wales v Aberystwyth 20 Shrewsbury Athletic v Welshpool MAHeu. 23 Welshpool v Whicohureh WELSH LEAGUE. jAXrASY 30 Newtown r B-yrnbo <•" 30 Welshpool v Druids 30 Chirk v AbervHtwvth 30 Oswestry v Westminster Rovers FEBRUARY 6 Welshpool T Newtown 13 Brymbo v Rhostyllen 13 Druids r Welshpool 13 Westminster Rovers v Aberystwyth MARCH 6 Chirk v 'Welshpool 6 Newtown v Rhostyllen 6 Druids v Westminster Rovers 13 Brymbo v Oswestry 13 Welshpool v Chirk [Rhos having withdrawn from the League, all L matches with that club are cancelled.1

— 0 HUNTING APPOINTMENTS. SIR W. W. WYNN'S HOUNDS Saturday, January 30 (10.45) Painters Green Monday, February 1 (11) Gredington Wednesday, February 3 (11) Ooekshut Friday, February 5 (11) Aldersey Saturday, February 6 (10.30) Broughall THE PLAS MACRYNLLETH HOUNDS. JOXHOTJMDS. (11) Thursday, February 4 (10y Lower Gate, tmpr"r HAKRIKRS. Saturday, January 30 (10.30) Penrhyn Monday, February 1 (10.30) Maes te ran Friday, February 5 (10.30) i Glandulas THE UNITED PACK. Monday, February 1 (10.45) Lydbury North Wednesday, Febnary3 (10.45) Marshbrook Saturday, February 7 (10.45) The Anchor TAN AT SIDE HARRIERS. Tuesday, February 2 (11) New Bridge -+-

Mr Thomas Roberts has been appointed Canadian Government Agent for Wales by the Minister'of the Interior of Canada. Mr Roberts, who was born in Wales, has been farming in Manitoba for the last twelve years, and is eminen.tly qualified to supply information upon all matters connected with the Dominion. Mr Roberts's present address is Ty Mawr, Morfydd, Corwen, N. Wales, to which place all correspondence should for the present be addressed. The Local Government Board on Monday issued an order prescribing rule3 for the election in the present year of Parish Councillors for every parish in England and Wales which is entitled to elect Parish Councillors. Since the last order was issued it has been represented to tl19 Board that no one day is convenient for the holding of a parish meeting in all cases, and also that in many parishes it would be of advantage if, at the meeting held for the election, other business could be transacted, and especially if one meeting could serve both for the election and also for the assembly of the parish meeting. This assembly is required to be held on the 25th of March in each year, or within seven days before or after that day. Cjnseqnently the 18th of March is the earliest day on which it can take place. 10 would not be practicable for a later day than this to be fixed for a parish meeting for the election, but,, if a meeting were held on that day, the Board think that it might serve both for the election and also for the annual assembly. If it should be inconvenient that a parish meeting should be held on that day, and the meeting for the election is held on an earlier date, it will be necessary that another meeting should be held on some day between the 18th of March and the 1st of April for the annual assembly of tho parish meeting. Representations have been made to the Board that it is inexpedient that a single parochial elector should be empowered to demand a poll at an election of Parish Councillors. Under the new order a poll cannot be taken unless either the Chairman assents, or the poll is demanded by parochial electors present at the meeting, not being less than fivo in number, or one-third of those present, whichever number is least. In the Queen's Bench on Monday, before Mr Justice Wright and Mr Justice Bruce, sitting as a divisional court, the Attorney General, Sit R. Webster, Q.C., M.P. (with him Mr Sutton and Mr H. Avory. on the part of the Crown) moved in respect of Alexander Chaffers, under the Act passed last year known as the Vexations Actions Act. This provided that if the conrt were satisfied a litigant habitually and persistently instituted vexitious proceedingo, whether in the High Court or inferior courts, they could order that no proceed- ings be t.ak"n in the future unless the person obtained leure from the High Court. The Attorney General said he first made th9 application against Mr Chaffers last sittings, and the- hearing stood over until the first day of these sittings, when Mr Chaffers desired that counsel (Mr Corrie Grant) should be assigned to him. Mr Chaffers had filed no affidavits, but on the part of the Crown two affidavits had been filed, one by Mr Hare, one of the solicitors of the Treasury, and the other by Mr Gardner, a clerk in the Public Prosecutor's office. Mr Hare had scheduled 46 actions by Mr Chaffers, ana Mr Gardner spoke of four more. In only one of these cases had Mr Chaffers succeeded, and actions had been brought by him against the Lord Chancellor, the Master of the Rolls, the late Speaker of the House of Commons, the late Archbishop of Canterbury, Mr Simeon, an official of the House of Commons, and many other persons. Sir R. e. 8^er recited the various actions, said their Lordships could have no doubt these actions had been frivoloue and habitually instituted, and he should ask them to make the order absolute. Mr Corrie Grant, on behalf of Mr Chaffers, submitted, first, that this statute could not be applied re- trospective.y, and secondly, he contended that it must be proved the actions were vexatious. Mr Justice Wright said the Court would make the order that Mr Chaffers be allowed to bring no pro. ceedmgs m the High Court or any other Court without the leave of the judge thereof. Mr Justice Bruce concurred, and an order was made accord- infly. »

CHESS 1 All communications for this department should be addressed to the Chess Editor, who will be glad to hear from Secretaries of Chess Clubs as to tournaments, matches, &0. All letters to reach this office by Wednesday morning. Local intelligence will be given the preference to other news. Problem No. 61.-Solutions invited. BLACK-7 Pieces. Ago ..i. II HP Shrill! t lif i | WHITE—10 Pieces. i White to play and mate in twojmoves. Position Wbite-K on QR7, Q on QKt7, H. on Q5, Bs on Q2 and KR5, Kts on QB6 and QR7, Ps on QR2, QB4 and K2. Black-K on K5, R on KR3, B on QKt7, Kt on KB2, Ps on QR6, K3 and KKt5. %•: Blackburn gave an exhibition of blindfold and simultaneous play at Shrewsbury last week. The veteran was looking wonderfully well and played with great uuccess-j A match took place yesterday (Friday) in the Town Hall, Ellesmere, between Ellesmere and Wrexham. We hope to give fuller particulars next week. _VJ_ Lasker is only twenty-eight years of age. He first attracted attention in 1889 when he became a master by winning the minor toarnament of the German Chess Association at Breslau. Since that time his progress has been rapid and continuous. He scored numerous successes, won a tournament against all the English players, defeated Blackburn without the loss of a game, triumphed over every chess player he met in Germany and America, and finally won his first match, a little under two years ago, against Steinitz. IV* I That iABker is a very strong player,exceptionally gifted, goes without saying It was, ideed, evident from his play from the moment when he attracted notice in the chess world that such was the case. Many connoiseurs predicted his success, aud one muster in particular, on seeing Lasker play in his early days, used the expression, This is the man that will beat Steinita," and so it has come to pass. V At the same time, however, Lasker's play is not by any means brilliant. It is sound, subtle, and logical, but it can hardly be called poetic in a chelts sense, a designation which one may well apply to the play of Alorphy, and some of the other masters of former generations. Curiously enungh, Lasker pm;9es!!K a vivid and fertile imagination, but it appears in his games only in a subdued form. After all this may be in harmony with ;,hfl general mental tendency of the age, which does not admit of imagination holding such a pre-eminent place in our intellectual work, or in art, or in science, ai it did in former times. v* Played recently at Brussels BURGVR. Da Miiujts. 1 P-K.4 p- K4 2 Kt—KB3 Kt-QB3 3 B-QKt5 Kt-KB3 4 Castles Kt x P 5 R-Kl Kt-Q3 6 Kt x P B—K2 7 B- Q3 Castles 8 Q-R5 P-KR3 (a) 9 Kt—Kt6 (b) P x Kt IOQiP R—B3 11 Q—R7ch K-Bsq 12 Kt—QB3 Kfc—B2(c) 13 Kt-Q5 B-B4 :1'RK?, ;J Os 17 Kt .x Q Black mates in 3 moves (g) (a) Perhaps P-B4 would have been a more satisfactory mode of defence. (b) The sacrifice, though promising, is not anite Bound. (c) A. very useful move, especially as it gives some freedom to the Black pieces. (d) If Kt x R, Q x Kt, and B ack would have a superiority in force nd position. (e) Cleverly conceived though not good enough to win. If Q x Kt, Q—Kt 0 ch, aud R mates next move. (f) It R x R, Q-B 3 wins easily. (g) By R x Q P dis ch, fo:lowed by R- Q, 8 ch and U- Kt 5 mate. <» Played at Craigisifle.-Clare 1. BKLLINGHAM. Bras. ir-Qt P-Q4 2 P—gii4 P-K3 3 Kt-QB3 Ktr-KB3 4 B—Kto K2 5 P S3 Castles 6 Kt,-B3 P-QKt.3 7 B-Q3 P x P 8 B r. B P-KI2 9 Ca.st!es QKt-Q2 10 R-Bsn "-B4 p K,, 12 Q >; Q K rt x Q i> K a-Q.sq P—Q113 14 B- B4 P~QKfc4 15 B-K2 P-Kt5 16 Kt—Ksq Kt-Q4 17 B-K5 P-B5 18 B-Q4 Kt—K5 19 B -Q3 Kt—Q3 20 B—B5 Kir-Kaq 21 B x B Kt x B 22 B-B4 B-Q4 23 B x II Kt X Ð 24 Kt-Q4 K-B2 25 Kt-Q2 Kt-K2 26 K—Bsq P-K4 27 Kt (Q4) Kt3 QR-Bs, 28 K-K2 Kt—Q3 29 K*— B4 Kt-Kr2 30 R x R R x B, 31 Kt (B4) R5 Kt x Kt 32 Kt x Kt R—Q4 33 Kt—Kt3 R-Q2 34 R—B5 Kt-Q4 35 P—Kt3 Kt-Kt3 36 R—B6 Kt-R5 37 Kt,-B5 KtxKl 33 tt x Kt K-K2 39 Draw agroetl <* ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS. The Chess Editor will be pleased te answer correspondents in this column if their questions are received at the COTIKTT Timits Office not later than Wednesday.

The steamer Malacca left the Royal Albert Docks in a snowstorm on Saturday afternoon, with the Marines ft:1d blur jackets who arc to take part in the Expedition against the King of Benin. Scenes of great enthusiasm were witnessed at Chatham and Portsmouth when the Marines left to join the ship, af't.'r having had words of encouragement ad- dressed to them by their commanding officers. When the Malacca left the dockst enthusiastic cheers were raised by the crowd of friends who had assembled, and cheers were given on board manv vessels a.nd from the river banks as the steamer passed down the Thames. A remarkable feat was performed at sea by Captain Schiel and tho officers and crew of the steamer Oakbranch, which has just arrived in the Hnmber. Whilst on a voyage from Yokohama to Sydney the steamer's propeller broke. Although the sea WM rolling henvily. efforts were at once commenced to repair the damage. Boats were got out, and, while the seamen kept" at bay wikh boachooks the fierce sharks with which the sea is swarmed thereabouts, the engineers tried Tarions expedients to them to repair the broken propeller, and after 7 days of continuous labour the task was accomplished. The officers and met worked with desperate energy, due partly to the knowledge that if the propeller was not repaired in time the steamer would inevitably be driven upon one of the islands of the Bismarck archipelago inhabited by ferocious savages. As it was the Oakbranch drifted 210 miles before the engine could be restarted, and then those on board could plainly see the natives on the beach. The under- writers have made arrangements for presentations to be made to the officers and crew in recoguitioa of their gallantry.

NORTH AND SOUTH WALES BANK. JL The sixty, first annual meeting of the shareholder! in the North and Sjuth Wales Bank was held on Tuesday, at the Law Association Rooms, Cook street, Liverpool; Mr Thomas Brocklebauk presid- ing, in the absence of Mr George Rae, chairman of the bank. There was a large attendance of share- 1 holders.—The directors' report, which was taken as 1 read, stated that the gross profits, including a balance of X18,734 lbs 9d from last account, after deducting interest due to depositors, rebate on bills not due, and making provision for losses, were £ 197,253 15s Id. From this there has to be de- ducted the expenditure of the head office, branches, and fourteen sub-branches, including salaries, directors' fees, rent, taxes, and other ex- penses, amounting to 286,713 16s lid which leaves £ 110,539 18e 2d, out of which the following divi- dends have been paid to proprietors-viz., half- year ended 30oh June, 1896, dividend at 10 per cent. per annum and bonus at 2 per cent. per annum; half-year ended 31st December, 1896, dividend at 10 per ceLt. per annum and bonus at 4 per cent. per annum. The income-tax paid by the bank amounted to X4,189 15s 5d, and there was written off the bank premies £ 6,500 leaviug to b. carried to next account, X2u,35kJ 2t; 9d. The balance- sheet at 31st December last will be found in our advertising columns.—The Chairman, moving the adoption of the report and balance-sheet, said. The hope which I expressed when the directors met you last year, that we should have as good a report to lay before you to-day as we then had, has bee* more than fulfilled, and t,he New Year opens with fair prospects. The year which has lately come to its close may be fairly regarded as one of some interest to the banking world, although the only movement of importance to record is the change that took place in the Bank of England rate of discount, which gradually rose from 2 per cent.—at which it had dragged on in unbroken monotony for more than two yeari-to four percent, on the 22ad October, remaining at that rate until the 21st inst., when it was reduced to 3. The average rate of discount of first-class bankers' bills during the year was 91 9s lOd, against 16s 3d in 1895. These circumstances, although they had lasted for only the latter half of the past half-year, have had a favourable effect on our profits, and have enabled us to pay an increased dividend, which I am sure will be satisfactory to the shareholders (applause). I would now invite your attention to some of the details of the balance-sheet, the acceptance of which, in the enforced absence of the chairmatr- which we all very much regret— it is my pleasing duty now to propose. In the first place, I must tell you, though I will leave the eulogy of our staff te the gentleman who has that special duty to perform, that the returns from every one of the sixty-twe i branches were sent up to the head office so punc- tually that our balance was struck and our profits, ascertained by 9..30 p tn" on the 1st January "1 (applause). This, 1 think, reflects no little credit on our staff as a body, and our chief accountant, 1 whose satisfaction must have been great at ouch an i achievement. You will notice that our deposits have increased from £ 7,356,000 on the 31st Dec- ember, 1895, to i7,496,000 on the 31st December last, and aro consequently larger than they have been in any balance-shot's which has hitherto been presented to the shareholders. This is a satis- j factory feature so long as rates are such as to allow ] & fair margin of protit, which, until recently, has hardly been the case for some time past. The second item to which I would dr;tw your attention is the iu crease in the bank's acceptances. This is due to the expansion, of our eottoa business, which is a safe and remunerative part of our operations; and it will be a satisfaction to you to know that after tho long period of depression we have passed through, our bad deot.s are below the normal amount, which shows. I think, the care which is taken in working the accounts of our customers, and the discrimination used in accepting new accounts offered to the bank (hoar, hear). As to the sum I which has been written off bank premises, the directors think it quite necessary; and when the shareholders reflect that we have sixty-two branches and fourteen sub-branches, many of them our own freehold property, I have no doubt they will be of the same opinion. We have almost finished build- ingt branch at New Brighton, have purchased land at Knighton, in Radnorshire, on which a building, for which plans are prepared, is shortly to be begofn, and provision has to bo made for ordinary wear and tear of furniture. But I am able to assure you that the branches ar., all in excellent order and have not only been visited by directors and the j country manager, but also by our inspectors, wbe are moat efficient and valuable officers. The 00.- 4 petition in bankiug is still very severe, but to show f 24- -0", 'TtrTm ni-r,.w tion, 1 may tell voti that we have opened only three" small sub-branches in the lasf three years, as we 1| consider our business is fairly well hedged in in most [daces. After all, the soundness and stability I of the bank ia what the directors have most at j heart, and 1 venture to point out that our cash on ] hand and at short notice, together with our bills of exchange and investments, amount to 62 per cent. of our liabilities to the public, of which the twe former-which are our immediately available, or liquid, assets -amount to 43 per cent. of those liabilities. The trade of the country, if the figures of the Board of Trade are any guide, seems to be in an improving condition. After quoting a number of statistics, t.he speaker continued:—All these f jets point to a distinct revival of prosperity in the country, and could weseesomei fthetnoredangerous diplomatic questions in t he world definitely "e; 10;1, and poitk;d, domestic, and '.•in-reucy ipe'uions in the United States put on ?„ sounder footing, we should. 1 think, be able to look fn;-e. ard to pn»-perotts times for this bank, as our business is,an excellent i and improving one, and our. pofi'ion as sound as it | can bo (.ipplau&e).—Mv John iiioby seconded, and the motion was carried unanimously.—Mr Edward Paull, in moving that Mr Joseph Beausire aud Mr Thomas Brock'chunk be )«« elected directors, thanked the chairman for his extremely enconrag- ing and i;i teres ting speech, which filieri them wit') ,hopp for the futoie. t, we at. to prove what he (Mr Paull) had contended for some time past,—that the country was liieraily w'eeped in proaperirv Tt W* very gr ttifving to t he ¡.¡hlt- iiofdeifl that they had always been able to retahi the services of gen tie mm of high commercial stand- ing and great ability to occupy seats on the oourd, ind their good luck in that respect wa* now as great as ever (applause). The making of money was, perhaps, not the most noble pursuit to which men co jtd devote their talents, bnt, at the saroo time, it val n very necv^ssivy one, and hr did not | think the gentlemen engaged in it had suffered in corns [u'ence. He WP8 quite sure if they re-elected the t .0 gentlemen he had named the soundness and the stability of the institution would go ou i tic re as- ing in the future (applause).— Admiral Jones-Parry, in ling, lwrlno doubt, tbc shareholders were'to be congratulated that tit iy wern able to retain the services of gentlemen so well known as Mr | Beausire and Mr Brocklebank (applause).— The' lcsolution was carried unanimously. —Mr J. 11. Harrison moved that the best thanks of the share- holders be given to the directors of the bank for their valuable services, and that the sum of £ 3.5C0 be placed at their disposal as remuneration for the current y6ar.—Mr W. 0. Aikman seconded, and the motion was eftrried.-Nir Edward Rae moved that Messrs llarmeod Baimer and Son be appointed Knditors for t the present year, -n(i that their re- mnocfftvio* ne OKJU jfinu6si?. Jet" I'CII^VGII the audi- tors wouid be tht) firit t.) that, the sl ud y of their accounts was one et tio moss pleasing op* ri- tbus of their year's duties, and that these accounts were not only precise, feut very clear (applanse)?-— Mr John Lloyd seconded the motion, which was agreed to.-Ir Balkeley Price ma\-cd-l'hat the bert thanks of tho shareholders he given to tho maiiageri and officers or tite bank." That was a resolution., he remarked, which they passed in that room every year not merely as n matter of form. He had always obse.ved that that v.u; a resolatioB which was received with gr-at enlhusi.n on the part of the shareholders, aud he that it did not require a single -(trd to be said in Support of it. He might just say, however, that during the last few years they had had very considerable changes iu the higher offices of the bank, through the retirement of their esteemed friends Mr Meredith Jonos aud Mr Ebenezer Hpp., and through the lamented death of their old friend Mr William Humphrøys. These changes were naturally trying to any institution, and involved some responsibility and anxiety to the directors in filling these appointments, bnt he was huopy to say that the ga(yi ih;fl was thoroughly well- officered and well-manned (applause). D uring the past vea~ they had had a very successful voyag of j 1897 in good heart, and hope .that at the end they ,A-ozild i-ecei ve a sati, — Mr W. R. Jones, in secondiug, said he thought it would be impossible to say anything more that would strengthen their disposition to pass that vote enthusiastically. The motion was carried-—Mr Rowland Hugh's (Liverpool manager), in acknow- ledging the compliment, said: On behalf" of the staff, I beg to thank Mr Price and Mr Jones for the very kind words they have used about our services, and also the shareholders present for the cordial way in which they have received the regolution.- On the motion of Mr William Alexander, seconded by Mr Joseph Nanson, a vote of thanks was given to the chairnian.-The Chairman having briefly N- plied, the proceeedings terminated.