The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

FOOTBALL NOTES. lBY VBTBRAN."] The semi-final for the Welsh Cup took place before a splendid gate at Chirk on Saturday. I have been referee at Chirk at many previous Cup encounters, but I never saw so many spectators on the ground. They were rewarded with au intensely exciting, if unsatisfactory, contest. During the first half Wrexham had the wind in their favour, but for quite fifteen minutes Oswestry held their ground well, and the play was fast and even. Then I the Wrexham men improved,and for the remainder of this portion of the gome they were by fi.,[" the better ream. This was especially noticeable amongst the forwards, where the combination was beautifully clean and correct. Pugh on the right was very tine, and very little, if any inferior was Williams on the left, while Hughes kept both wings in admirable order. On the other hand the forward play of Os-vestrv was erratic. Occasionally Pierce and Watkin treated the spectators to lovely runs, but these were followed by play of very mediocre character. Every excuse must be made for the Oewestry forwards, as the halves seemed quite off, and did not at all back up the forwards as they have hitherto done, while their feeding was terribly weak at times. In this respect they were far in- ferior to the half-back trio of Wrexham. The latter tackled and fed beautifully, and were often so well up that fine shots were sent in by Robinson and Harrison. The first goal was indirectly due to the weakness of the Oswestry backs, while the ■econd—a long shot from the sure foot of Pugh— ouirht to have been stopped. At the same time the ought to have been stopped. At the same time the most partial of the supporters of Oswestry would admit that on this part of the play Wrexham were quite two goals in front of Oswestry. After half- time Wrexham pushed their advantage, but did not score for some time. At last Williams when well up received the ball, and heedless of load cries of off-side rushed up to the corner and then swung the ball to goal. The goalkeeper had any amount of time to clear, but he was dreadfully slow, and Hughea rushed up and put the ball in the net—as some say who were just behind the goal—with his bands. The goal had a distinct flavour of off- side on it, but independent of this the United goalkeeper should easily have cleared. In every way the mistake was an unfortunate one, and it, was enough to taks the heart out of any team, but the Oswestry men were routed to play as they have never played before. New life seemed to be put in every man, and to the end of the game Wrexham, to use an old but forcible expression, were completely smothered. More determined and better play has never been seen on the old and famous Chirk ground. Watkins, Pearce, and Benbow fought like giants, and indeed Gooderich and Plimmer were little inferior, while the halves and backs had no mercy on the opposing forwards, keeping them at bay with the greatest ease. Ere long Benbow found the net with a atinger. This was quickly followed by another goal by Plimmer, equally well fought for. Wrexham were flabbergasted, and their efforts at retaliation were very weak. On the other hand, the resusci- tated Oswestrians bombarded the Wrexham goal with shots from every quarter, and only the vilest of hard luck prevented them from at. least equalis- ing. They were going tremendously strong when the whistle blew, and Wrexham were delivered from their misery-for misery of the highest degree the last ten minutes play must have been to the team and supporters. Wuh another five or ten minutes play, Oswestry would have won quite easily and decisively, and it is a great pity their splendid effort was not made a few minutes earlier. The play of Oswestry all round was very dis- appointing till the last half-boar. The team seemed wanting in confidence in their own powers, though they were the better trained lot. The goalkeeper was the weakest Bpot in the tet*m, the second and third goals ought to have been saved and easily. Edwards and Lewis at first were nothing like so safe as usual, while the halves played a very nn- certain, straggling game. Watkins and Pierce, were up to their form, the former especially, though he missed an admirable chance from a magnificent pass by Pierce. The other three forwards were pretty fair, though all adopted the kick and rush business too much, and it did not come off. On the other hand the Wrexham forwards were particularly smart and correct in their runs and passing, while the halves kept them well up to their work. The backs were not safe or strong, and here lies the weak part of the Wrexham team. Jardine really had more work to do than his via a vie, and he did it coolly and well. Against the shots that scored be had no chance. Now what can be said about the final after this game. Well, in my mind's eye, I see the Cnp again going to Newtown, if the for- wards will at once arrange their respective posi- tions, and practise well. The Newtown defence will be superior to that of Oswentry, and Teddy Davies, W. Parry, and Tucker, will stop the danger- ous rnns and rushes of Pugh and Williams. Even if the forwards pass these three good men, Charlie Parry, Rees and Edwards, will arrest further pro- gress. The only doubt I have as to Newtown's success is the uncertainty of the attack. They will in my humble opinion have a better chance against Wrexham than they would against Oswestry. Con. tinual and systematic practice by the forwards in the position arranged for the great day will pull Newtown through. At least that is my opinion, after seeing Wrexham fight in the semi-final. Though they were here the better team they were decidedly lucky to win. On Thursday, with the generosity and good feel- ing always associated with thorough sportsmen, the Newtown players journeyed to Osweetry to assist a worthy old player who has fallen on evil times. I allude to Dick Jones, or Dick tho Mangier as he was known in his football days. To the credit of the Newtown team it should be stated that they gave tneir services freely and gratuitously—only railway fares being allowed. This is a noble act, and one which redounds to the credit of the New- town committee and the players. Fresh from their narrow victory over Aberys. twytb, the Everton Combination team journeyed on to Newtown to give the home team a rare good practice game. The Evertoniaas were strong all round but the Newtown team had W. Parry and J. Swettenham absent-both on the sick list. The home team played an inferior game but the passing of the visitors' forwards and the feeding of the halves was indeed a great treat and each man seemed to have arranged beforehand exactly where to be-always in the right place-when a pass was made. This perfection in the beautiful and effec- tive art of passing can only be obtained by incessant practice in good matches with an entire absence of selfishness. Perhaps the best display of all was that of Moiklejohn at centre-half, although when all played so well it would be invidious to single out any. For the home team, Edwards should perhaps have stopped two at least of the shots which scored, although they were difficult ones. But then we are so accustomed to see Edwards stop very diffi- cult shots and never expect him to be beaten. One shot from the foot of Campbell was a teaser. At a good rate it sailed like an arrow rising gradually until it entered the net right under the bar. The backs were not safe, Reese being the best although he has a "trick" which wont always work with good opposing forwards, and one of the goals on Saturday was indirectly due to this. C. Parry had travelled the night before from Liverpool and this incapacitated him from making his usual display- he was unreliable and occasionally missed his kicks. Teddy Davies, though unwell, and Tucker gave a good display, and it was surprising how these two players repeatedly checked the strong wings of the Everton team. Geatle had more than his match in Banks, but he also did very well under the circumstances. Evans in the forward rank did not, of course, do so well as on the previous Satur- day, but the two wings were good, the best being Morgan and W. E. The latter should really now decide to play in the final. Very little training is required, and his presence in the team will have a most inspiring effect. His runs and centres on Satnrdav were grand, and he and Morgan combined very well. A. Swettenham could not be expected to shine on the outside left after playing outside right all through the season, but he did wry well, u and if Nock did a little less gallery play, and of which lie gave more than his usual dose on Satur- day, this wing would be a very powerful one. With J. Swettenham as centre the forwards are made up, and thus as a full Cup team the men should at once practice and train together, and the Cop will come. Chirk cannot be complimented on their treat- ment of Welshpool last Saturday. The League fixture had been duly advertised in the local papers and by posters, and as Bostock's Show was in town many persons would have tried to kill two birds with one stone, with the result that there would have been the best gate of the season. Chirk did not find out till Saturday morning that the tempta- tion to witness the Welsh Cup semi-final was too groat for them. Their conduct really was most un- excusable, and they deserve a little more than a censure. If we cannot depend upon a League fixture being carried out what can we depend upon ? At last Sweeney United received the final decis- ion as to the protest in the second round of the Village Cup. The Derwyn Rangers (Gobowen) protested on the ground that some of the Sweeney men lived outside the reguli,n distance. Sweeney at first won on the ground thb.c the protest- was not litid in time. At the last meeting of the Village Association, the question was re-opened and this time Sweeney lost. The losers appealed to the Shropshire Association, who were so bothered with the contlicting evidence produced that maps and plans were ordered to be produced, and the matter to be settled by rule. The tape or rule went a little against Sweeney, and they were ruled out of the contest to their disgust. It is drawing matters a little too fine, especially in Village Cup contests to dispute over a yard or so either way, and I am not surprised that the Sweeney men are dissatisfied with the decision. Sweeney now properly ask why the other protest, on the same grounds, fell through and the match allowed "be re-played. I am very pleased to find that Mr R. T. Gough, Oswestry, has been appointed referee in the Inter- national match between England and Scotland at the Crystal Palace, on April 3rd. This is a very great honour, but it is only rewarding a man according to his merits, and it is a wonder to me that his services have not been recognised in Inter- nationals long ago. Ir my opinion he is every whit the equal of the very best men now acting as referees in First League and English Cup ties, and far superior to many. A Correspondent, writing to a sporting con- temporyon Wednesday, says:—"I like the team against Wales, and although it is quite possible one or two positions may be changed, there will not be many alterations form the eleven to oppose Scot- land on April 3rd. The new Internationals in the team against Wales are Foulke and Spencer. Our Welsh friends will be able to place a powerful side in the field, and the match should produ It splendid trial for the Englishmen. The team against Scotland will be selected immediately after the match on Monday week, as is necessary, seeing that the great tussle with the Scots takes place within five days. The Scotsmen are straining every nerve to repeat their last year's victory, and no doubt the selecting seven will be on duty bent at Wrexham next Satur- day to witness their annual encounter with Wales. For this match, Mr T. Armitt, of Leek, the well- known League referee, has consented to officiate, and for the one at Crystal Palace England has sub- mitted Mr R. T. Gough, of Oswestry. The English Selecting Committee wished to adopt the principle of having a Scotch referee in England and an Englishman in Scotland, but the Scottish Associa- tion did not quite see the joke. All the same, I think it would have been more satisfactory than what we have experienced in these matches during recent years." To-day the International between Wales and Scotland takes place at Wrexham. The Welsh team is fairly strong, but I am not smitten with the back division, and ahull expect Scotland to win. The English team to meet Wales is a par- ticularly warm one, and it is to be hoped Arridge, of Everton, will be at liberty. To-day he ia assiat- ing bis club in the English Cup semi-imal at Stoke, against Derby County. This will be a grand match, but on form Derby ought to win, as Aston Villa should do at Sheffield. FIRST-CLASS LSASRE. The following are the results up to and including Monday last:- Goals P. W. L. D. F. A. Pts Aston Villa 25 16 4 5 56 35 37 Derby County 24 14 7 3 61 39 31 Liverpool 27 12 8 7 43 34 31 i Sheffield United. 26 10 6 10 38 27 30 Preston North End 23 10 5 8 49 34 28 Bolton Wanderers 23 11 7 5 34 26 27 Sheffield Wednesday 26 8 8 10 34 33 26 Evertou 25 11 11 3 48 46 25 Notts Forest 26 9 11 6 43 44 24 Bury. 23 7 7 9 32 36 23 Blackburn Rovers. 26 10 13 3 33 54 23 West Bromwich A. 26 9 12 5 27 45 23 WolverhamptonW. 25 7 12 6 34 34 20 Sondertand. 28 6 14 8 32 48 20 Stoke 24 8 13 3 41 55 19 Burnley 25 4 14 7 34 52 15 WBLSII LEAGUE. The following are the results up to and including Saturday last:- Goals. P w L D Fr Ag Pts Druids 11 8 0 3 39 13 19 Newtown 13 8 4 1 47 13 17 Oswestry 10 7 1 2 27 10 16 Chirk* 12 7 5 0 24 17 12 Westminster Rovers 13 4 6 3 20 51 11 Aberystwyth 14 5 8 1 21 33 11 Brymbo. 12 4 6 2 24 17 10 Ehostyllen 12 4 7 1 23 30 9 Welshpool. 13 1 11 1 10 52 3 Chirk have had two points deducted for playing an ineligible man. NORTH SHROPSHIRE AND DISTRICT JUNIOR LEAGUE. The following are the results up to and including Saturday last Goals P W L D F A Pts Oswestry Reserve. 8 7 1 0 40 8 14 Ellesmere Rangers. 9 6 2 1 53 12 13 Whittington 10 4 5 1 26 26 9 Whitchurch Reserve. 5 4 1 0 34 6 8 Sweeney United 8 4 4 0 16 27 8 Ruyton-xi-Towns 7 2 5 0 9 34 4 Baschurch 9 0 9 0 4 68 0 WELSHPOOL JUKIOR LEAGUE. The following are the results up to and including Saturday last:— Goals P W L 9 Fr Ag Pts Powysland 4 4 0 0 12 7 8 Llanfair 5 3 2 0 25 5 6 Albion 3 1 2 0 7 5 2 Excelsiors 4 0 4 0 3 31 0

WELSH SENIOR CUP. SEMI-FINAL. OSWESTRY V. WREXHAm.-Played at Chirk in splendid weather, and with the ground in good condition. The gate was a splendid one, between three and four thousand being present. Wrexham came on the field first, and had a good reception Oswestry had even a better a few minutes later. No time was lost in getting to work, and the teams lined up as followsWrexham Goal, Jardine; backs, J Jones and E Ellis; half-backs, Taylor, Robinson, and Harrison; forwards, W Pugh, C Davies, J Hughes, A Williams, and B Lewis. Oswestry GoaJ, T Jones; backs, Jim Edwards and F Lewis; half-backs, M Parry, E Lloyd, and Roberts; forwards, Pierce, Plimmer, Benbow, Watkins, and Gooderich. Linesmen, Messrs Wilkes and Cotton referee, Mr Roberts, Ellesmere. Os- westry kicked off against the wind. Mid-field play took place, and then Oswestry's forwards got up, but sent behind. Pugh ran down his wing nicely, but Lewis saved by kicking out. Splendid play was shown by Watkins, Benbow, and Pierce, and the latter shot near. Down went the ball, and Pugh sent it across, but Lewis returned with a long kick. M Parry soon after returned a stiff shot, and Ellis had to kick out to save from Ben- bow. Pierce and Benbow again were aggressive, and Ellis repeated his tactics of kicking out. From a foul against Wrexham, Oswestry became danger- ous, but handled near goal A grand run was the next item by the whole of the Wrexham for. wards, but Pugh's final shot was wide. From the I return Harrison sent a nice high shot near goal, but Plimmer rushed back and saved. Ben Lewis from a good position shot over. From hands against Wrexham, the ball was placed well in front of goal, but Jones returned. A rush by the Wrex- ham forwards was spoilt by F Lewis. From a foul against Oswestry the ball was sent in the net after another fonl had been given. The free kick led to a scrimmage, from which Watkin got away well. With the aid of Benbow a corner was forced, and the ball well placed. F. Lewis sent the ball over after a foul against Wrexham. Lloyd tried a. long shot but the ball was turned behind. From the corner kick Robinson saved. Robinson sent the ball in goal from a free kick but the ball was handled. From the free kiok M. Parry sent the ball nicely to Plimmer; the latter shot wide when a good pass would have been more bene- ficial. Pugh passed to Hughes who kicked over. Pierce was loudly cheered for an admirable run which he finished up by swiuging the ball right across goal. Watkin rushed up and headed just an inch wide. Wrexham found a corner, then another, and B. Lewis after good play by Pugh drew first blood. After the centre kick Oswestry handled near goal, but the ball was sent behind. M. Parry mis-kicked but F. Lewis saved by kicking out. Pierce sent the ball near after a good run and then J. Edwards was deservedly cheered for a grand save from Williams. Watkin got. away well, but worked the ball in touch and from the throw in Pusjh scored with a grand long shot. Wrexham kept up the pressure and Edwards and Lewis saved well on several occasions. C. Davies had the ball nicely placed for him but he lost it through oeing slow. Harrison in a scrimmage shot near. This was followed by another fine shot from Robinson. Pugh forced Lewis to kick out. Benbow passed well to Pierce but the latter was hampered by Ellie and the ball was worked in touch. Wrexham nearly scored from hands against M. Parry. Williams got away well but M. Parry was too clever for him. Watkin got up near goal but the final effort went wide. Later on Goo,1 rich, with a splendid shot, compelled Jardine to a corner. The ball wsis well placed and Pierce kicked it on the net. Pngh next ran down well but Lewis sent the ball out. Watkins tried at the other end, but was wide. After offside had been given against Williams the whistle blew for half-time. Wrexham kept up the pace from the kick-off and early forced a corner. From this Oswestry handled near the goal line but the ball was eventually worked over the lire amid great excitement. Hughes sent a rare shot into the hands of Jones, who returned the ball well. Benbow and Watkins got near goal, and after a tight scrim- mage a corner was awarded to Oswestry. The ball was sent behind by Pierce. Pugh raced up from the goal-kick and gained a corner. A scrimmage occurred and then Pugh forced another corner. Another sharp scrimmage took place near the Oswestry fortress, and at last the ball was worked over the line. Wrexham kept up the pressure and gained still another corner. The bill was well placed and Williams headed the ball behind. The seige was then raised and Pierce forced Har- rison to kick out. Pierce next sent the ball well across and Gooderich forced a corner. Williams raced away up the left but J. Edwards robbed him as he was about to shoot. Lloyd fouled, and Pugh and Davies after good play compelled Lewis to kick behind. Even play occurred for a time. Watkin passed well to Gooderich, but the latter shot over. Pugh was loudly cheered for a smart run. After the Oswestry goalkeeper had missed, Williams missed a somewhat easy chance. Morris Parry tackled Williams in fine style. Then Jones fisted back a hard and long shot from Robinson. Ben Lewis kicked over and then there was a spell of even mid-field play. Watkin enlivened matters by shooting very near after a grand run. Oswestry pressed, and from a good pass by Watkins the United nearly scored in a "crimmage. This was followed by a fine pass from Williams to Hughes who shot in goal and Jones saved. Pierce, after a nice run, sent out. Williams received the ball from the kick-off amid loud cries of off-side. He raced up to the corner while the Oswestry men appeared to be waiting for the whistle and sent the ball on to goal and it was rushed through and a very doubtful goal was allowed. In a very short time Pierce put in some smart play and with the aid of Goodrich Benbow scored a beauty. Oswestry now were on their mettle and in a minute another raid was made on Wrexham goal but Jardine saved well. From a foul against Wrexham near goal Roberts sent the ball right to goal and it was headed to the goalkeeper who saved. From another foul against Wrexham, Oswestry nearly did the trick. Tremendous pressure was now put on by Oswestry and soon the score of Wrexham was further reduced. Soon after Hughes twisted his knee and retired. Three times in quick succession Oswestry nearly scored and only Jardine's clever- ness kept them out. Watkins banged on one side the post,, and-outhoodwr mdePteree,*ftef a grand run, shot the ball right to goal. Jardine saved by rushing out and kicking into touch. From a foul against Wrexham, J. Edwards sent the ball into the net but it was not touched by a second player. Soon after, to the relief of the Wrexhamites, the whistle blew, and the United retired defeated by three goals to two.

WELSHPOOL JUNIOR MEDAL COMPETITION POWYSLAND v. LLANFAIR.-These teams played their return match in the above competition at Welshpool on Thursday afternoon in windy weather. There were a good attendance, and much interest was taken in the game. Llanfair winning the toss elected to play dowu the incline with the sun and a strong wind at their backs. Roberts kicked off for Powysland, and after a short struggle in front of goal, the right full back cleared with a long shot. Roberts obtained the ball, and after a nice combined run by the forwards, Baines sent a neat pass to Griffiths, and that player scored the first goal for Powysland ten minutes after the commencement. -This reverse roused the Llanfair men, who from now to half-time gave Dick Evans much trouble, but he was only beaten on one occasion, this being from a scrummage in front of goal. Ac half-time the game stood one each. The players started the second-half in real earnest, giv- ing both goalkeepers some nasty shots to deal with. Five minutes from time Powysland obtained a corner, which Thomas placed nicely in front of goal, and Griffiths rushing up headed the second goal for his side.. In the few minutes that remained, Llanfair pressed considerably, bnt Dick Evans was impregnable A hard fought game thus enoed in favour of Powysland by two goals to one.

ABERYSTWYTH MEDAL COMPETITION. THE TOWN RESERVE AND YSTWYTH RANGERS.— These teams met in the semi-final round on Satur- day. The Reserves showed the beat form and ran out winners by three goals to uit. FOOTBALL MATCHES; NEWTOWN V. EVERTON COMBINATION. — This return match took place on the Cunnings on Satur- day, before a good gate. The Everton men were a strong lot, viz.:—Goal, Palmer; backs, Henderson, and Molyneux; half-backs, Goldie, Meiklejohn, and Hughes forwards, Elliott, Maley, Banks, Scbofield, and Campbell. The Newtown team was compoeed as follows :—Goal, Edwards; backs,'E. Rees and C. Parry; half-backs, H. Tucker, R. Gentle, ud Teddv Davies; forwards, W. E. Pryce-Jones, E. Morgan, A. E. Evans, W. Nock, and A. Swettenham. Referee, Mr. Townsend. Newtown won the toss, and elected to play up the incline. Nock got possession from the kick-off, and Morgan passed to Swettenham, who handled, and thus spoilt an opening. Meikle- john put behind, and from the goal-kick Campbell and Schofield got possession and forced a corner, which was converted into a goat, Parry failing to reachthe ball with his head. The visitors tjbus scored their first point five minutes from the start. Banks's shot missed only a fe- inches. Elliottand Parry had a tussle, the former i, sSot just missing. Teddy Davies stopped Elliott very cleverly, ^ryce Jones made a nice run, but, Hughes handling, stopped him. Reese and Teddy Davies again broke up the visitors' forwards. Nock was cheered for some gallery play, which, however, availed nothing, and C. Parry missed his kick, Reep covering his goalkeeper in good style. Pryce-Jones was again F-een to advantage, but the ball was sent behind. The homesters forced a corner which was frnftless. Nock again dodged Meiklejohn and landed to Swettenham, when Teddy Davies again forced a corner. A fonl against Rees was given, bnt Teddy Davies was in the middle of the fray and cleared. Pryce-Jones and Morgan got up, but owing to a misunderstanding Hughes robbed, them. The Everton forwards returned to the attack and Tucker and Davies were again seen to advantage. From the free-kick Edwards brought off a rather lucky save, but made amends by a brilliant bit of work a minute later. Nock rounded the field again, and passed many opponents, but nothing was gained. Hughes was penalised, but Edwards had to concede a corner, which was fruitless. Elliott centred grandly, but Campbell failed to reach the ball. Hands against Meiklejohn was given, but the visitors' backs were sound. Pryce-Jones initiated a very neat run, but Nock spoiled a good chance by handling. Teddy Davies dispossessed Maley very cleverly. Rees tried to trick Schofeld and landed the ball on to Campbell's toe who sent in a stinging shot, which entered the net right under the bar, Alf Edwards misjudging it. Edwards saved a strong shot from Banks at the expense of a corner, which was followed by another. The Newtown men however got up and sent in some shots towards the visitors' goal but Hender- son and Molyneux easily cleared. Elliott and Maley got down, but C Parry cleverly robbed the former when half-time was called. The second half was similar to the first, the visitors having much the best of the play, and Elliott scored the third point. Pryce-Jones tried hard with an over- head kick. Nock should have easily netted the ball from a nice centre by Tucker. C Parry stopped a run by Elliott and Maley. Swettenham essayed an individual run, but Henderson stopped him. A run by Nock, Evaus, and Morgan was put behind by the latter. Banks cleverly tricked C Parry, and sent another of his lightning shots which Edwards could not properly reach, and the fourth point was notched. Palmer cleared a shot by Swettenham. Elliott sent in another, but Bees and Parry cleared. Give and take play followed, and a disappointing match resulted in a win for the Combination by 4 goals to 0. OSWESTRY UNITED V. NF, WTOWN. -Played at Oswestry on Thursday. The gamA was started by the Mayor of Oswestry (Mr T. Edwards) just before five o'clock, in the presence of a very fair gate. Both goals had narrow escapes in the first few minutes, but for some time neither set of forwards could get through. At length W. E. Pryce-Jones scored for Newtown, and Pearce got a goal through for Oswestry. At time the score stood at one goal each. In the second half both tides scored twice, and a grandly contested game ended in a draw of three goals each.

THE MAGAZINES. TELEGRAPHING WITHOUT WIRES. he most interesting and important article in the Strand Magazine for the current month is one on the New Telegraphy, an interview with Signor Marconi, the discoverer or inventor. It is quite a popular exposition of the newly discovered possi- bility of telegraphing without wires, the first practical application of which was between the island of Mull and the Mainland last year when the cable broke. Mr W. H. Preece, of the Electrical Department of the British Post Office, then effected communication by setting up lines of wire opposite each other on the two coasts and telegraphing through the air. But Marconi's system is of a different character, and the results obtained by it are much more wonderful. He has succeeded in telegraphing through a hill three-quarters of a mile in thickness, and has transmitted signals to the General Post Office through seven or eight walls, over a distance of one hundred yards. For an account of the possibilities of the new discovery in war, in navigation, and in other directions we must refer readers to the pages of the Strand," which besides as usual contains much readable matter profusely illustrated. The illustrated interview is with Mr and Mrs Beerbohm Tree, some curiosities are exhibited under the title of Side Shows," and attention is directed to the great future before Antarctic Exploration. THF. SERVICES. The Army and Navy keeps its place as one of the best magazines for illustrating the past and present of the two services, the real life of the soldier and sailor in barracks and on board ship, 011 parade and in action. The fifth Special number tells in spirited language the exploits of the First Royal Scots or Lothian Regiment and the battle honours of the Warspite," an interesting history of all the vessels of the British fleet that have borne the name. SPORT AND RURAL LIFE. Country Life is a wonderful production for 6d. The paper and printing are of first-class quality and the photographic illustrations are excellent. It. treats of sport in the best sense-the turf, hunting, fishing, golf, and the great English pastimes of cricket, football, and rowing are all copiously dealt with. There are also interesting articles on quaint old English country houses which will be appreci- ated by those who are attracted by the picturesque side of country life. MUMC, The Strand Mimical Magazine is also a cheap six- penny worth. In addition to twelve selections for the pianofore and violin comprising songs, waltzes, and polkas, there are short sketches of the careers of some of our most prominent musical celebrities with illustrations. The tenth and last part of the Way of the Cross gives 24 views of the last scenes of our Lord's ministry, Dine of them being in the Via Dolorosa. The scenes are mostly architectural and are reproduced more successfully than usual. The whole set would make a very handsome volnme. The first part of Harry Lorrequer by Charles Lever, comes out at the small price of one penny. The printing is good alihough the paper is rather coarse; altogether it is Wonderful value. WHY IN POPULAR? ecing thia question in tWJSoiucuJ of. Ttomews. Mr Stead says the public does not really care for Arctic exploration.' To them there is merely a kind of empty, frozen hell round the North Pole which has nothing in it of value to man. But Nansen is popular because of the constant interest in seeing a brave man risk his life in a combat with terrible enemies:—" Hence the interest in Arctic exploration is very much the same as that which led the Roman populace to crowd the Coli- seum in the days of tha great gladiatorial shows, when trained athletes fought with wild beasts of the desert, and exhibited the prowess of mun in combat with the brutes. Nansen is for the moment our popular gladiator."

-+- PARLIAMENTARY. ENGLISll VOLUNTBBRS FOR GREECE. On Monday in the House of Commons answering Mr J. Lowther, the Attorney General said he had seen the statements announcing that subscription lists had been opened in England for the purpose of equipping volunteers to proceed to Greece, and that many had already been enrolled. The facts, he believed, were not disputed, but they did not show any breach of the law. THE MEANING of ACTONOMY." Answering Mr J. Lowther, Mr Curzon said the commanders of the ships that had been sent to different parts of Crete were instructed to dis- tribute proclamations to the effect that the Great Powers had assumed responsibility for the future of the island. Autonomy, be added, meant in the case of Crete that it would in no case revert to the rule of the Sultan. THE BJLOCKAPE OF CRETE. Crete formed the subject of questions in almost identical terms iu both Houses of Parliament on Tuesday. Lord Salisbury said the only fact not already known formerly to the House was that instructions bad been given to the Admirals to blockade Crete. He referred to the speech of Mr Hanotaux and Mr Meline as containing an admirable statement of the policy of the Powers, in which he .heartily concurred. Mr Balfour, in the Lower House, stated that the Government had made a communication to the Powers, the terms of which it would not be in the public insterest to make known.—Mr Curzon stated that the British Admiral had reported that wounded and mutilated Mahomedan children bad arrived at Canea. TOWN AND COUNTRY VOLUNTARY SCHOOLS. The respective claims for special treatment of town and country Voluntary Schools were dis- cussed, on an amendment by Mr H. Roberts to leave out the provision in the Voluntary Schools Bill authorising the Department to fix different rates for town and country schools. The supporters of the amendment claimed that country schools were more necessitous than town schools. The amendment was rejected after the Closure had been imposed by 183 to 72. THE FIRST CLAUSE DISPOSED OF. On Wednesday, after the repeated use of the Closure, the first Clause of the Voluntary Schools Bill was passed by the Committee. A PASSAGE AT ARMS. On Thursday, in the House of Commons, the system of harassing the Government by putting inconvenient questions on the Concert of the Powers with regard to Crete was pursued. Mr Balfour said he had not much satisfaction in answering questions of right hon. gentlemen opposite, who embarrassed the Government as much as they could by their speeches out of doors, and who dared not move a'voteof censure in the House. Sir W. Harcourt said that before they moved a vote of censure they must askwhether they would be allowed to debateit. Mr Balfour said with regard to the suggestion that the Government desired to prevent the Opposition from moving a vote of censure, he could assure Sir W. Harcourt he was greatly mistaken and that he had only got to name his day. THE VOLUNTARY SCHOOLS BILL THROUGH THE COMMITTEE- The Voluntary Schools Bill passed through com- mittee on Thursday without the slightest alteration being made on it. A large number of amendments were proposed to the four last clauses of the Bill, one being to exclude Wales from its operation, but they were all rejected by substantial majorities.

Oxford University conferred the honorary degree of Doctor of Civil Laws upon Dr Nansen on Thursday. Sunday, the 20th of June, is to be observed as a day of General Thanksgiving in commemoration of the sixtieth year of the Queen's reign, and the fol- lowing Tuesday will be a Bank Holiday throughoat the Kingdom.

CHESS All communications for this department should he addressed to the Chess Editor, who will be glad to hear from Secretaries of Chess Clubs as to tournaments, matches, &o, All letters to reach thisoffiee by Wednesday morning. Local intelligence will be given the preference to other news. Problem No. 67: Key-move, Q-Q7. Correctly solved by M. Whittingham, Mrs Maurice, W. A. Doody, F. Carter, R. H. W. Hodges and T. E Howell. Problem No. 68.-Solu.tions invited. By A. C. CHALLENGER. BLACK-5 Pieces. I WIHTE-5 Pieces. j White to play and mate iu two moves. Position Wilite-K at QB8, Q at QKtsq, Kts at KB3 and KR5, P at QR5. Black—K at KB4, R at KKt5, Ps at Q113, K5 and KKt3. X Ani [nternatlonal Ladies' Chess Congress has been arranged to commemorate Her Majesty's long reign and will take place at the Hotel Cecil on June 22. Her Royal Highness Princess Charles of Denmark (Princess Maud of Wales) has been pleased to be- come patroness, and amongst other distinguished patrons are the Mayor and Lady Mayoress, the Lord Chief Justice, Earl of Dartney, Baron Albert de Rothchild, Sir George Newnea, Bart., Mr Atherley Jones, Q.C., Mr John Parnell, M.P. The Tournament prizes will be-First, £60 (given by Sir George Newnes) second, £ 50; third, £ 40; fourth, £ 30; fifth, £ 20; sixth, £ 15; and a special brilliancy prize of £ 20 (given by Baron Rothschild). A match between the Ruabon and Wrexham Clubs took place at the Wynnstay Arms, Rnabon, on Friday last, and resulted in a win for Wrexham by six games to four. Mr Saint claimed his same by default, Mr Locke Holt being unavoidably absent. S-ore:— I: ABON. WRSXHAM. G. Saint 1 L. Holt 0 Dr Jones 0 E. D. Rowland 1 W. Jones 0 W. A. Hughes 1 J. Simpson. C. L. Heywood 2 2 D. LI. Davies 0 H. Copleston. 1 Rev T. Buncombe. J G. H. Whitehouse. J H. C. Douglas 1 C. G. Caldecott 0 J. Mills 0 J. E. Price 1 T. Headway 1 T. B. Butterworth 0 J. Evans 0 J. Pinder 1 4 6 We trusb our suggestian as to a North v South Wales match will bear fruit. We see no reason why such a contest should not take place. We all know the amount of interest which is taken in* the North and South Match in England, the East and West Match in Scotland, and the Dublin versus Belfast match in Ireland. There seems no reason why a similar fixture should not be arranged for Wales. We invite all chess players and ckess editors to I co-operate with us in initiating such a match which would be a striking feature in Welsh chess, and we need not say that we shall be only too glad to receive any suggestions which may be offered. PRIZE GAME AT ODD-i.-The following game, played in the recent Tourney at Craigeide, Llan- dudno, has received the special prize for brillaincy, donated by Sir George Newnes. Dr Tarrasch was the adjudicator:— REMOVE BLACK'S KING'S BISHOP'S PAWN. WHITE. BLACK. I (Mr W. H. Supple, (Mr E. Macdonald, Dublin.) Hereford). 1 r—K4 2 P-Q4 P-QB4 (a) 3 Q-R5 eh P-Kt3 4 Q x BP Kt—QB3 (b) 5 Q-B4 P-K4 6 P—Q5 QKt—K2 7 B—KKt5 P-Q3 8 Kt—KB3 R-Q2 9 Q-Q3 (c) B-Kt2 10 P-QB4 R—B.«q 11 Kt- B3 P—QR3 12 B—K2 Kt—KB3 13 Castles KR Castles 14 Kt-Q2 Kt-KR4 (d) 15 KB x Kt P x B 16 Q-Kt3 K-Rsq 17 Q—R4 R-KB2 18 Q x P Q-KBsq 19 B x Kt Q x B 20 Q-K2 R-KKtsq 21 K-Rsq B—R3! 22 R-KKtsq (e) B-B5 (f) 23 P-KKt.3 B—R3 24 Kt-Qsq R (Ktsq)—KBsq 25 QR-Bsq Q-Kt4! 26 R—B2 B-Kt5 (g) 27 P-B3 (h) R x P! 28 Q—Ksq R (B6)-B2 29 R-KBsq (i) Q x Kt! 30 R x Q R x It ch 31 Q x R R x Q eh 32 K-Kt2 R x Kt eh Resigns. NOTES. (a) The sacrific of a second Pawn is not quite sound buo it generaHy leads to a lively game. (b) Threatening P-K 4, etc. (c) Better would have been 9 Q Kt-Q 2, R-B sq 10 Q-Kt 3, followed by P-Q B 4, and K—QB eq. (d) In the true spirit of a good odds-giver, al- though the move would probably not stand the test of analysis; it, however, open up the K Kt's file for the other Rook, which ultimately wins Black the game. (e) This scarcely improves matters. Better appears to be 22 P-B 3, B-R 5; 23 R-B 2, followed by Kt-K B sq. (f) Threatening B x R P. (go) All this is admirably played by Black. (h) Which, of course, loses the Pawn. It is, how- ever, doubtful whether he had anything better in the present position. (i) At once fatal. He ,might still have offered some resistance by 29 P-K R 4, Q—R 4; 30 Kt- K 3, and if then 30.B-B6 eh; 31 Kt x B, Q x Kt ch 32 Kt—Kt 2, &c.. # The following game is something of a record in its way. It was played by telegraph between Mr. R. J. Barnes, of Wellington, and Mr. J. Mouat, of Dunedin, New Zealand. The distance separating the players was about 400 miles, and the game lasted forty-five minutes ALLGAIEE-THOROLD GAMBIT. WHITE. BLACK. R. J. Barnes. J. Mouat. 1 P-K4 P-K4 2 P-KB4 P x P 3 Kt—KB3 P-KKt4 4 P-KR4 P-Kt5 5 Kt—K5 P-KR3 6 Kt x P K x Kt 7 P-Q4 P-Q4 8 B x P Kt-KB3 9 Kt—B3 B-Kt5 10 B-Q3 B x Kt ch 11 P x P Kt x P 12 Castles K—Kt3 13 B-K5 R—Bsq 14 Q-K2 R-B4 15 R x B R x R 16 Q x P ch R-Kt4 Here Mr Barnes announced mate in five moves— 17 Q to K6ch, Q to B3 (best); 18 Q x Qch, K to R4; 19 B to K2ch, R to Kt5; 20 Q to B5ch, Any; 21 Q x R mate. If Black plays 17. K to R2, or 17.K to R4, he is mated sooner. Mr Blackburne's out-playing of Mr Pillsbury on the second day of the recent cable match ;a amus- ingly described in the New York Sun, and in a journalistic style that is peculiarly American. The greatest interest was shown in the oontest between the leaders. Every one saw that Pillsbury had the better of it, for he fairly radiated with confidence. Blackburne was hard pressed, and gave up the Knight amid wild applause. Suddenly the enthusiasts saw that Pillsbury had lost his smiles, and with head down was studying his position with some anxiety. The Knight had been a Grecian gift and the veteran Blackburne had the American's King in trouble Meanwhile the experts had come to the conclusion that Pillsbury's chances of winning were gone. Blackburne had penned in the American's King with a Rook, and was chasing him around the pen (!) by checking with another. This forms what is known as perpetual check, and Pillsbury offered a draw, which was accepted." It would appear from further comment made by the same journal, that Pillsbury's inability to win the game,caused bitter disappointment to the Americans.

OSWESTRY AND DISTRICT ANGLING ASSOCIATION. ANNUAL DINNER. The members of the above association, which has for its president Mr A. Wynne Corrie, enjoyed a pleasant re-union on Friday evening on the occasion of their annual dinner at the Boar's Head Hotel, when upwards of thirty gentlemen sat down to a capital repast, catered for in Mrs England's well- known efficient style. The Mayer (Mr T. Edwards) presided, and the vice-cbair was occupied by Mr J. H. Parsons. Amongst those present were Coun- cillors Cottam and Mason, Messrs J. Edwards, senr., and J. Edwards, junr., R. H. Mason, Doody, R. Parry, T. Markey, T. W. Markey, R. J. Roberts, Kenyon, Williams, Pendre, Ouzman, T. Jones, J. Thomas, T. Hurdsman, W. H. Lewis, Norris, and J. S. Cheesman (bon. secretary).— The repast over, his Worship the Mayor gave the usual loyal toast of The Queen and Royal Family," remarking that this would rank as one of the most memorable years in the annals of English history < as being the diamond jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen (hear, hear). He was sure there was no more loyal body of men than anglers, because they were such patient people, and patient people were always loyal (cheers).—The Vice-Chairman sub- mitted the toast of The Army, Navy, and Reserve Forces," coupled with the names of Sergt.-Major Pendre and Sergt. T. Jones, both of whom suitably responded.—-Mr R. H. Mason next proposed The Town and Tiade of Oswestry," remarking that a better class of tradesmen it would be impossible to find than the tradesmen of Oswestry (hear, hear). —Councillor Mason, in responding, referred to Oswestry as an agricultural town of ex- ceptional business capabilities. There was no town of its size that could compare with Oswestry for the amount of business done (hear, hear). Oswestry was noted for its schools. They had a grammar school at which young gentlemen from the town and surrounding districts were educated. Besides these educatio ial advantages, the trades- men's sons got business qualities infused into them, and this was one of the reasons why Oswestry occupied such a prominent position in the com- mercial world (hear, hear). Great strides had been made in new buildings in Oswestry during the last fifteen years. Mr Hurdsman had himself of late years built about one hundred bonses, and they ought to be proud at having such an enterprising and energetic tradesman in Oswestry (cheers).—Mr T. Hurdsman also suitably replied to the toast.— The Vice-Chairman then proposed The health of the President, Mr A. Wynne Corrie, and the Vice- Presidents and Officers of the Oswestry and District Angling Association."—The toast having been cordially drunk, Mr J. Groves responded. Mr Corrie was a keen sportsman and an excellent fisherman, and Mr Charles Wright, the Vice-President, Colonel Lloyd and Mr Stanley Leighton, M.P., were gentle- men who were always willing to do what they could for the angling club (hear, hear, and cheers). They had a good staff of workers in the club, and j all were keen and loyal fishermen (hear, hear).— The Mayor said he had now to offer them the toast of the evening, Success to the Oswestry and District Angling Association (applause). He was pleased to preside over their gathering that even- ing to meet his friends in Oswestry, and those who had come long distances from the country to sup- port them (bear, hear). Their association was a very successful one. It set a very good example to many other associations by having a good sum of money in reserve to meet emergencies (hear, hear). What constituted the success of such associations as that ? It was the support they got from the various ladies and gentlemen who owned fishing waters, and who very kindly allowed the members of that association to fish in those waters (hear, hear). That kind of thing did a very great deai of good in various ways. He knew that many men, women, aud children, who might be unfor- tunately striken with sickness, in Oswestry and district were recipients of fish caught by the members of that association-gifts which were most acci-:ptaMo to the sick (hear, hear). The success of their association was, he was-pleased to. say, due very largely to the cordial feeling which prevailt-d.amongst the members (hear, hear). He hoped thht. wrnild lorg obtain amongst thevrh (e!ifi"rs). lie woi:'d 'o;:ji!e v. ii.ii 1 ii«» toast the (e!ifi"rs). lie 1\"r¡¡;ld 'o;:ji!e II ¡Lit. ¡Ii! toast the name of Mr J. S. Chessman, who had always taken great interest in all matters connected with the association and had done much to bring it to its present Karisfactory condition (cheers).—The toast was heartily drunk, and Mr Cheesman,. who was cordially received, in responding, mentioned that, at the beginning of last year tbey hud a balance in hand of Xil 01 lid. They had oiot bad a very good fishing- season, and had lost a fow members, some by death and others through their leaving the town. They had nearly 30 en the balance sheet now. IInd bad a vccy good balance in hand of X15 17:1 7<1 (cheers). That was very good considering the bad season (hear, hear). They had only two trips out during the last season owing to the fact that there was very little water. He was pleased, however, that the club was, under all the circum- stances, in such a. satisfactory condition (hear, hear). It was a pleasure to In able to say that wherever they asked permission for fishing privileges they always found the riparian owners ready aud williug to give them tl:at permission (hear, hear). In fact, they J¡nd never had a refusal. The Dowager Lady Williams- Wynn had been very good to them, and the same might be said of other owners of fishing waters (hear, hear). It was a pleasure to him to do what he could for the associa- tion, for the members were men who stuck well together and did all they conld to support; him in the discharge of his duties. They had Hid some very pleasant outings in times past and he hoped the association might enjoy many more like experiences in tha future (hear, hear and cheers). It was a pleasure to he able to say that an far as the behaviour of the members when fishing was .concerned they had never had any complaint (hear, hear). lIe hoped the coming fishing season would be a very good one, for although they enjoyed the outings, they liked to bring something home with them (hear, hear).—-The Vice-Chairman proposed, in felicitous terms, the health of the Mayor, and the toast having been most enthusiastically received, his Worship replied, expressing the great pleasure it gave him to be with them that night. He was pleased to say that in the Council he had during the time he had occupied the civic I chair received the cordial support of his colleagues in all that he desired to do for the welfare of Oswestry (cheers.) He waa much obliged to the members of the Angling Association for asking him to be their guest on that occasion and anything he could do to further their interests he assured them he should always be pleased to do (cheers.)—The health of the Vice-chairman was next proposed by the Mayor and responded to by Mr Parsons, and the Mayor afterwards submitted the toast of the visitors and those who had contribNted to the harmony of the evening. Mr Drewett responded. The toast of the 03westry Town Council was next cordially received, and was acknowledged by Councillors Cottam and Mason, the last named gentleman referring to the movement which was on foot for celebrating the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. Several things had been suggested and he believed it would be decided to have a recrea- tion ground for the town (hear hear.) Other toasts were proposed, including The Press" by c Mr Kenyon, and responded to by onr representa- tive, the Hostess by Councillor Cottam, and acknowledged by Messrs G. and W. England, the last named gentleman taking occasion to express regret at the absence of a worthy vice-president in the person of Mr G. Wood Dalrymple, who had shown many kindnesses to tho association (hear hear.) During the evening songs. &c., were given by Messrs Drewett, R. Roberts, G. England, Merry. dew, J. Groves, and others, and a very merry gathering was brought to a close with the singing of Auld Lang Syne and the National Anthem.

— —+. FOOTBALL FIXTURES All matches played on the ground of the first named club. MARCH. 20 Wales v Scotland, at Wrexham 20 Oswestry Railway Clerks v Whittington 20 Shrewsbury St Giles v Oswestrv OlTrapic 20 WelshpooCy Whitchurch & APHIL. 27 if J L Baschurch v Oswestry Reserve 27 Llanymynech v Oswestry Railway Clerks 27 Oswestry Olympic v Whittington 29 England v Wales, at Sheffield 3 England v Scotland, at Crystal Palace WELSH LEAGUE. AyMt. 3 Rhostyllen v Welshpool 3 Oswestry United v Chirk 10 Welshpool v Westminster Rovers

CA. To CORRESPONDENTS. — Communications for this column should be addressed to the Editor, and must be written upon one side of the paper only, They should in all cases be accompanied by the namE: and address of the sender, not necessflrily for publication but as a guarantee of good faith.

THE RIFLE RANGE. To the Editor of the COUNTY TIMES AND POST. SIR,—Allow me through your columns to ask Yeoman to give the date and names of the me* who formed the team at Bisley when they made a 1 score of 200 points, and each man's score, as I can- not give him credit for being correct in his state- ment, for the reason that I cannot find such a score made by the M.Y.C. in the Bisley score of 1896. And again how could they practice from April t. the end of August when the Bisley meeting was held about the 10th of July. I can assure him that there was not one practice on the Svlfaen range for the Bisley meeting. Did the team go to New- town or not, and if so, what for if Yeoman is a marksman ? I think it only his duty to be in- terested in the new rifle range. I have not heard of any one member of.the M.Y.C. making any effort in the matter, yet Yeoman would like ie claim a front seat in the use of it. Still I should like to inform him that all Government rifle ranges are for the use of cavalry as well as in- fantry, and the M. Y.C. will have the right of doing their class firing and other practice as well as the militia and volunteers. Should the proposed new range become a reality it will not be for the use of one corps. If so it undoubtedly will promote the trade and welfare of the town and surrounding dis- trict of Welshpool. I now trust Yeoman" will find his simple question answered. Yours faith- f ally, March 17,1897, OLD SOLDIER. «.

WALES v. IRELAND. To the Editor of the COUNTY TIMES AND POST. SIR, Play Fair's remarks with reference to the Selection Committee must perforce provoke a smile, especially when one remembers the stormy meeting" they had at Newtown after the last Irial Match. The reader can at once perceive that Play Fair" is defending Aberystwyth and nor, the Selection Committee, and introduces the "exotic Newtown team," which is altogether be- side the question. Surely Play Fair does not seriously uphold the idea that last year's form is any recommendation or otherwise to a player for this year's matches ? If that were the case what is the object of the Trial Matches ? In my opinion last year's results has no more to do in proving a player's claim for International honours this year than next year's results might have. As to the "important matches" which Roose was absent from, I wotdd be obliged if "Play Fair" will state which were theee matches, as so far as I know Aberystwyth bad only played local teams this season up to the time this correspondence commenced. Newtown have doubtless sound backs and balf-backs, but then the comparatively small number of goals scored against them is not entirely due to their good play, as in that case the Newtown team can dispose of the services of their goalkeeper at once. I reiterate Play Fair's statement, let the question be argned on its merits "—that is on the present merits of the two players—and Edwards's record is undoubtedly by far the best. Play Fair stated that Roose has been unavoidably absent from many important matches, but he has not (doubtless for a very good reason) given the number of goals scored against him this season in the matches he*has p' lyedl;— Yours, && FAIR I'LAY.

SUGGESTION FOR THE DIAMOND JUBIEK. To the Editor of the COUNTY TIMES AND PØiT. SIR,:—I wish to draw the attention of all your readers to my Society for the Assistance of Ladies in Reduced Circumstances. This society has grdwn from a very smali beginning of 10 or 11 years ago. Owing to the warm support of many true-hearted friends,. I have been able to carry on the work. There are now a great number of ladies who are assisted in various ways. Many can work beauti- fnlly and are given opportunities of selling. Those who are old or invalids are helped by gifts from the fund which depends solely on donations and yearly snbecriptierid; this fund is heavily taxed owwg to- many sad eseft and the expenses attached to the working of the' society. end aijd deserving cases come to my knowledge, and I have the pain of refusing as the fund is not large enough to jutify my placing fresh cases on my books. In this special year of thanksgiving for the Diamond Jubilee—why should not all wottten of all classes come foiward and show that the example of a tender-hearted Queen and woman is followod-will each English woman give Is, 6d, or 3d, according to their means, and so raise a Diamond Jubilee Fund. Reports of this society will be sent on application and receipt of halfpenny stamp.—Sincerely hoping for a hearty response, I am, yours truly, (Miss) EDITH M. SMALLWOOD, The Lees, Great Malvern. Hon. See.

MR PARKE AND WORKHOUSE AMALGAMA- TION. To the Editor of the COUNTY TIMES AND POST. SIR,—rAs Mr Parke's case, which for the past few weeks has been in a precarious coudi-.ion, ex- pired with your last issue, this letter must, I fear, be an obituary notice to his deceased argument and defunct logic. Gibbon and Genesis, the Cretan question and a dissentation on liberty form his epitaph to its. memory, and let me add Reqwuacnt in Pace. To hark back to the beginning, An ex- tensive saving of the rates" was first portended, next a saving of X1500 per annum to the county was implied, then Ford^n's share was stated to be E281 13s 4d, plus an allowance, and even with the last dying tiioker of his case, Mr Parke fondly imagines that he has shown conclusively that by amalgamation there will be considerable economy. I need not reiterate the indisputable fact that whatever saving is effected in salaries and rations, benefits the Imperial Treasury a-id not the rate- payers at all. But to sum up the. matter I should like to briefly discuss the possibility of saving any- thing whatever out. of the rates by Workhouse amal- gamation. The Guardians of the Newtown and Llanidloes Union are the foster parents of the scheme which is now left an orphan by Mr Parke and what does their expenditure reveal ? They raise from the ratepayers some £10,500 yearly. Of this about X4000 is paid to the County Council, leaving approxi- mately 16500 annually expended by the Board of Guardians. No less tjan X4,800 out of tb;g sum is spent in out-relief (nett); about R400 upon lunatics after deducting the Government grant; approximately £ 500 upon separate expenses, registrar 1, vaccination, assessment, and the like and con ierably less than X800 represents the whole of the annual cost of Caersws Workhouse to the ratepayers. To be exact, this cost is some z6740, or 1 •: >5d in the X. Now the Guardians of this Union, in proposing to sotid all their paupers to Forden, are willing to pay 4s 6d per head weekly, and averaging 60 paupers we have at this rate £ 702 annually, or l'S06d in the £ A savfng of the decimal fraction of 079d, or one-thirteenth of a penny in the £ is thus apparent. But even this minute saving is not possible, for from the last statistics to hand it appears that the Caersws Workhouse boards annually some 2,500 to 2,800 vagrants. These would not be included in The contract with Forden, and the cost of the provision which the Caersws authorities would still have to make for them would reduce this tiny saving down to zero, and even if anything remained the addi- tional expense of removing paupers from Llanwyd- delan, Llanllugan, Llangnrig, Llanidloes, Carno, and such distant places to Forden would more tlian account for it. The general question of the amalgamation of the four Workhouses in Afent. gocaesyshire works out on almost identical lines. The theoretical saving to the ratepayers, even at first inspection infinitely small, is reduced to nil when looked at in its practical aspect. About 50 per cent. of indoor paupers are inmates of the Workhouse for brief intervals only, and, supposing the only Workhouse for the Montgomeryshire Unions were that at Forden, where would be the humanity, expediency, or economy of bringing there helpless people— Welsh and English irrespectively—from Towvn- Llanwrin, Aberdovey, Llanfyllin, Llanwddyn, Llanrhaiads, and other far away parishes in the districts of the Montgomeryshire workhouses, and to expect them to walk or be conveyed back thither after their sojourn ? Yet this is what this apostle of workhouse amalgamation preaches from his text in Genesis as Liberty But enough my origi- nal purpose was to seek the elucidation of Mr Parke's assertions in this matter, and if the result has been to lay bare the. fallacy of his specious statements then that purpose is accamplishect.- Yours, Ac., LE"