The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

WELSH LEGISLATION. The Welsh Radical members of Parlia- ment had blown quite a large, beautiful bubble to float in the House of Commons by way of amendment to the Address. Wales, they complained, had not been specially referred to in the QUEEN'S speech. It was a capital grievance to come down to their constituents with; and we may con- fidently expect to see it do duty on several platforms. There, in the presence of sym- pathisers, they run no risk of being met with a plain unadorned statement of facts. The House of Commons, in spite of its many defects, Is essentially a business- like assembly, and appeals to passion or pre- judice—national or other—which serve very well on the platform, usually receive but little sympathy in the House. Of course speeches of this character are often made in Parliament, but they are not made with any thought of influencing votes there. They are delivered from local con- sumption through the medium of the Press. But, even so, they are liable to prompt exposure, as in this case, wbou the beauti- ful bubble of the Radical Welsh members was pitilessly burst by Mr. BALFOUR. This is one of the things that make debate in the House much less satisfactory—to the speakers—than platform oratory. It is so much easier to address a sympathetic crowd than to speak where a little common sense siay expose there and then the fallacies hidden in carefully balanced periods. Mr BALFOUR eadily pointed out the fundamental error underlying the argument of Mr. LEWIS, to whom was entrusted the Oluty of moving the amendment. He seemed to think that no legislation could be for the benefit of Wales, which was not exclusively confined to Wales in its opera- tion. The present Government has passed the Agricultural Rates Act, and the Work- men's Compensation Act, from the benefits of which surely Wales is not excluded. Is not Wales sharing in the grants from the Treasury under the Light Railways Act ? But because one or two measures have been enacted applicable to Wales alone it seems that an attempt is to be made to establish the right of Wales to separate legislation, irrespective of what she receives along with England. Of course the position is un- tenable, but its weakness would not have been readily perceived on a political plat- form. Most of the Welsh speakers went on false premises. Sir MICHAEL HICKS-BEACH pointed out that it was not likely that the present Government would propose a measure for the Disestablishment of the Church in Wales, or separate temperance legislation nor were they likely to adopt, with regard to the land question, the theories and proposals which commended themselves to the Welsh Radical members. But he spoke sympathetically on the sub- ject of Private Bill legislation, a measure for the granting of which to Scotland will soen be placed before Parliament. In this matter Scotland has been long promised relief, and has never seen the promise ful- filled. The grievance of Wales on this head is not so pressing, for Wales is nearer Westminster, and if less time were wasted in profitless discussion both Wales ahd Scotland, as well as England, would more Gluickly get their desire. This is not a question that affects Wales as a nationality, and therefore it receives less of the atten- tion of the Welsh Radicals than less practical questions which seem to them more likely to catch the popular ear. It is well, too, to remark the statement of the Chancellor of the Exchequer, that it does not follow because 'a particular measure was Hot mentioned in the Queen's Speech that therefore it is not receiving the attention of the Government. Something must have precedence, and every part of the Empire will benefit in the improvements that are thie session to be effected in the army, while the granting of Local Government to Ire- land is merely putting that vexed country In the same position as Wales, England and Scotland have been in for several years and is a simple measure of justice. In respect to secondary education, Wales is even ahead of England. The disestablishment of the Welsh Church, temperance reform, and land reform, not to speak of an education question deeper than was touched by the Intermediate Education Act," may well be held over till more important matters are disposed of. Some of them, we hope, will aot need to be dealt with at all; others can easily be dealt with as questions affecting England quite as closely as Wales. —

WELSHPOOL WATER SUPPLY. In another colnmn will be found two reports that have been presented to the Welshpool Town Council, both relating more or less closely to the water supply of the town. The one is from Mr BELOE, C.E., Liverpool, the engineer appointed by the Council to report on the water supply of the town, the other from Dr MARSTON, the medical officer. The latter should be studied first. It is couched in very straightforward language, indicating that the medical officer takes a very grave view of the position of the town in relation to its water supply. It is not the first time that he has drawn attention to the subject, but nothing that he has said has roused the Council to take a serious view of the situation. If the water of the town were shown to be good by analysis every day of the year, its goodness would not make up for its scarcity. It has never been shown, except by occasional analysis, that the quality of the water is good. Only by periodical analysis can the consumers, who are compelled to use it, be satisfied that the water they are paying for is rratisfaetory. The Medical Officer has said again and again that the filter beds are insufficient in area, and he is now re- inforced in his opinion by Mr BELOE, who says also that they are constructed on an obsolete, old fashioned principle. Dr. MARSTON says that the storage reservoirs are not of sufficient capacity, and Mr BELOE says the same., One matter which it is hnrdlv in the province of Dr MARSTON to allude to is the danger the town would be in during the periodical drought of summer I if a fire were to break out. In a few hours damage might be done that would exceed the cost of a brand new system of water works. A Fire Brigade without water is a mockery. The admirable report of Mr BELOE sug- gests a comparison of the Town Council of Welshpool to a country shopkeeper ignorant of book-keeping. He does not know exactly what his financial position is. He has sometimes a little difficulty in meeting his bills, but, on the whole, he thinks he is doing pretty well. He has some stock in his shop and a running account at the Bank. It may be sometimes overdrawn, but under one head and another he knows he is making good profits. Some departments are being mismanaged, but it would be very troublesome and involve some outlay to put them right. Not financially, but as suppliers of water, the Welshpool Town Council is in much the same position as the unbusinesslike country shopkeeper. Mr BELOE is the accountant who has come to set things straight. We can imagine the Councillors, regarding the report in much the same way as NAAMAN took the advice of ELISHA," Go and wash in Jordan." Has not their Medical Officer told them repeatedly to increase the filtering area and the reservoir capacity, and to take pre- cautions against pollution of the supply ? Have they not been repeatedly advised to get the water periodically analysed ? Mr BELON does not tell them anything new or wonderful. His is such a simple, plain statement that they may, perhaps, regard it in NAAMAN'S spirit. We have better hopes of them. Mr BNLou has only told them to do what their Medical Officer told them to do. He has also shown them how to do it, as a local engineer would probably have shown them but he is a stranger, and his words may have weight with them. They have already done some of the things he advised, and, under the advice of the very capable Chairman of the Sanitary Committee, Mr. HOWELL, they will probably now enter on the task in a whole-hearted manner. To return for a moment to the simile of the country shopkeeper, it may be pointed out that in supplying water they did not know what their income or their expendi- ture was. They had no meter to show how much water is supplied to the town they did not know the reservoir' capacity, there was considerable leakage, as in most badly organised businesses. The plan of the hatches, at which the scraper for cleaning the pipes can be introduced, was not in the hands of the Council's officials, and there is no scraper for the smaller pipes. Very like a country shopkeeper! The preliminary measures recommended by Mr BELon have been carried out and the scheme that he suggets will, we hope, soon be started- It will involve consider- able expense, but the revenue derived from the water sold to the' Railway Company, which has been considerable in the past, can probably be largely increased. It is disgraceful that water should be sold to the Railway Company while the town has for some months been kept on three or four hours' daily supply; it is very bad business management that prevents the tewn from supplying the water when by a little outlay it could be made available. It will pay the town to carry out a thorough scheme for supplying water and there is no reason why it should involve an increase in the rates. We quite expect that some of the Town Councillors will shrink from coming to a decision—they are sometimes afraid to look back on decisions they have come to-but the good sense of the majority, and the energy and enterprise of a few, should ensure the scheme being carried through with success. ♦

NOTES BY THE WAY. It is not every country parish whose affairs engage the attention of the House of Lords to the extent that Berriew has done. The Archbishop of Canterbury on Thursday moved the rejection of the Berriew School Scheme, which, after many vicissitudes, had been properly and legally laid on the table of the House for acceptance or rejection. After a discussion in which Lord Kimberley, the Duke of Devonshire, Lord Herschell, and the Marquis of Salisbury took part, the House rejected the scheme by the substantial majority of 53 votes to 16. The way is now clear of a scheme of which the good sense of Berriew has never approved, and of which a very large proportion of the electors of the parish within the last few weeks have expressed disapproval. A new scheme will now have to be framed, and in it the rights of the old foundation will, we hope, be respected, and the interests of the inhabitants of Berriew will not be lost sight of. With reference to the figures given in Lord Herschel's speech in the debate on the Berriew School Scheme, we may state, in order to avoid any misunderstanding, that the total number of County electors in the parish, including the township of Brithdir, is 324, and we have it on the best authority that in response to a circular recently addressed to each of these electors, no less than 113 repl iad expressing a wish that the scheme might be rejected. Lerd Salisbury appears to be none the worse for his recent accident when the carriage in which he was riding was smashed by a gate swinging against it. After the Berriew School debate he left the House and walked through St Stephen's with our informant, and referred in a pleasant manner to the Berriew Scheme, and the result of the debate. Mr R. Williams-Wynn was the principal speaker at the annual dinner of the Buttington Conservative Club. He touched on foreign politics, as he did at Cemmaes the other week, but his speech, a report of which appears in another column was devoted mainly to agricultural questions. It was a model after-dinner speech, humorous and pithy, but it contained a good deal of practical wisdom, which his hearers would do well to remember. Buttington Conservative Club seems to be in a prosperous condition and to be doing good work. Miss G. Naylor, Leighton Hall, on Thursday, at a special meeting of the Welshpool Town Council, presented to the Corporation a very fine portrait of Her Majesty the Queen, being a copy of a painting by Professor Angeli, executed by Miss Naylor. The Mayor, Colonel Twyford, was very happy in his speech accepting the gift, of which the town has great reason to be proud. Miss Naylor is well known as a clever artist, and it adds considerably to the value of the gift to Welshpool that it has been painted by a lady who has interested herself so closely and at considerable personal incon- venience in the moral and intellectual welfare of the community- V It is proposed to hold a Horse Show in Welshpool this year. A meeting, which is reported in another column, was held on Monday, and, one may gather from the proceedings that it is regarded as possible that the show may not be confined to horses, but that it may to some extent take the place of the defunct Agricultural Show for the county. Another meeting will be held on the first Monday of March, at which the attendance of exhibitors at the last connty show is invited. The preliminaries of the coming County Council election in Montgomeryshire are being very quietly conducted. The only Conservative member who has up to the present addressed his constituents is Mr W. Fonester Addie, who represents Llanerfyl. He had a very hearty reception at Llangadfan < n Wed- nesday, but in addressing them he was only carry- ing out his practice of giving every year an account of the work ef the County Council. He touched on some topics of local and some that are of wider interest. His example in annually addressing his constituents might be copied with advantage by other Councillors. At present electors pre mostly dependent on the newspaper reports, and although we do not wish to belittle them, there is a great deal of virtue in the living voice. The preliminary expenses of the promotion of the Llanfair Light Railway were exceptionally low. Everyone who reads the newspapers and observes what other promoters have had to pay knows that. This has been due to the solicitor and the engineer of the promoters, who have certainly not been adequately paid for the work they have done in connection with the scheme. Not only have they not been adequately remunerated themselves but they have kept down expenses in every direction and in this endeavour the committee gave every assistance. Several who did work for the pro- moters made their charges in anything but a mean spirit, for their interests were in the town and in the railway and they were willing to lend a helping hand. The solicitor, the engineer, and others were not working for thanks and they have not got them they will not be discouraged because public bodies and the public do not show their gratitude, for they did not expect .it. But some members of the Welshpool Town Council made themselves seem rather foolish this week when they asked to see details of the accounts which the Council had already passed for payment, and which since then have been submitted in detail to the Light Railway Commissioners and sanctioned by them. To turn round and ask for details of accounts that they had passed months ago and had sent up to the Com- missioners for sanction showed that they have either very short memories or that they take but little interest in the affairs of the town. » Mr Addie stated at Llangadfan that although the Order sanctioning the Llanfair Light Railway has not yet been received—so slow are the ways of Government Departments the draft oider was nearly completed a month ago, and that he had been informed that the Treasury had agreed to lend them 27,500, one-fourth of the cost of the railway, at 3A per cent. The question of the tariff fpr the Town Hall came up at the meeting of the Welshpool Town Council on Thursday, and, curiously enough, there was per- fect unanimity on the question. All were for sticking to the tariff. In spite of that we shall not be surprised to see the next application for a reduc- tion granted. The Markets Committee might look into the question. Does the tariff provide for a reduction when the hall is taken for more than one day ? We think it fair and reasonable that a reduction should be made for taking a quantity," but that should be provided for on & fixed scale, and not left to be considered off hand. V Mr J. Lewis, Bettws, says that the Caersws Board of Guardians have had a great deal of experience of nurses and that they had found that those who were not trained were the best officials. Will he say also that they are the best nurses ? We trow not. And yet it would be hard to guess what Mr Lewis would say. When will Guardians and mem- bers of Councils, who have no special knowledge themselves, allow themselves to be guided by their officials who have ? We are surprised that the Rev T. H. Hughes with the report of the medical officer before him went to ask advice of the matron and followed it in defiance of that of the doctor. Mr Hughes is capable of better things, and it must be said that as a rule his views are sound and en, lightened. In this case he has made a mistake. V In spite of the measures that have been taken to stamp out sheep-scab the disease is spreading and the situation becomes serious. Wales appears to be in the worst state. The largest county totals for January are wholly in the Principality, the worst English county having less than half the outbreaks of Merioneth, which heads the list with 72, Mon- mouth, which is generally reckoned with Wales, had 70 outbreaks; Denbigh, 43; Montgomery, 40; Carnarvon, 37; Glamorgan, 37, while Lancaster bad 32. Farmers have been complaining of the stringency of the regulations; it seems as if they would require to be made more stringent before the disease abates. ————<.————

WELSHPOOL. DRINK: D. JONBS & SONS' Noted Teas. Splendid Indian and Ceylon Blends at 2s. per lb. [Advt. IF YOU WANT a good reliable Bicycle at the cheap- est rate go to Thomas J. Evans, iionmonger, and ask for quotations. Old machines taken as part pay- ment. Ladies' and gents' Bicycles for hire. [Advt. The most distingue bicycle is the Elswick.' Lists and all particulars from the sole agent, Higham Berriew Street, Welshpool. [Adr CORN MARKKT.—Business at the Corn Market on Monday was extremely quiet, no grain being on offer at all. The prices remained unchanged. A VACANCY FILLED.-After a lapse of some months the Committee appointed by the members of the Congregational Church to select a candidate for the honorary post of choirmaster to the church have just reported that one of their number, Mr C. H. Jones, has accepted the office. THH BENEFIT MATCH.—The match which took place last Saturday between the Casuals and the Albions for the benefit of David Williams realized over X3. THE VICAR OF CHXISTCHURCH AND THB SIGN OF THE CROSS."—On Sunday night recently before commencing his sermon, the Vicar of Christchurch said he hoped all his congregation would go to see The Sign of the Cross" at the theatre for the reason that he was such a believer in teaching from the sense of sight as well as by other means. If they saw that piece they would come away saying what a marvellous power Christianity had in early days. They would see what Christianity meant in those days, and what it meant to be a Christian, that it meant some little suffering and sacrifice. Let them leave off that silly nonsense which said I must not be seen in a theatre. They had better die in a theatre than in the most magnificent Cathedral in a state of unpreparedness. He was going to see the piece himself to encourage others to see it. The same company which played this piece before Mr Gladstone twelve months ago, will appear at Welshpool on Thursday next. THE BIBLE CLASS.—Perhaps the most successful of the Open Sundays" as they are popularly called, ever held in connection with the St. Mary's Bible Class was that which took place last Sunday in the Church House. Good attendances are al- ways a feature at these gatherings, but that of Sunday last was a record one, many people having to be reluctantly turned away. The Vicar (the Rev Grimaldi Davis) presideii, and after the usual hymns and prayers, Miss N. Hutchins gave a violin solo. After Miss Tigar bad given the solo But the Lord is mindful of his own," the Rev J. Sawer gave a stirring address upon The sayings of our Lord Jesus Christ." The programme was concluded with another violin solo by Miss N. Hutchins, and a solo 0 rest in the Lord," by Miss Tigar. In the evening the Rev J. Sawer preached at the Parish Church. THE PROSPERITY OF COUNTRY TOWNS.—An in- teresting discussion on this subject was held in the Church House on Monday evening by the members of the Literary Union.—The Rev D. Stephens, who presided, introduced the subject in a short speech, and Mr Dick argued that country towns could not prosper as mere distributing centres; they must have some local industry other than agriculture to depend on.—Mr Robert Owen, while generally agreeing with the proposition, contended that no manufactures should be introduced that would detract from the beauty and charm of a district.— Mr Roper, Mr Matthew Powell, the Rev J. Jenkins, the Rev W. T. Davies, Messrs Winter, Bamber and D. Rowlands took part in the discussion. So far Welshpool is concerned no definite proposal was made as to a suitable industry, although several' suggestions were made, one being that its situation and surroundings fitted it for a residential town. If it were developed in that direction it would be necessary to afford increased educational facilities. THE LATE MR. W. JUNKS.— At tti-- ( OITRIEY. tional Church on Sundav last before a larve congregation the Rev J. S. Lewis (Swindon) preached a funeral sermon with reference to the la,te Mr W. Jones (Church Street) FOOTBALL.—On Thursday a football match tlluk place between the Intermediate School XI and the Church Lads' Brigade on the ground of the former. A pleasant game ended in a win for the homesters by 4 goals to 1. DISFKNSARY BALL.—The balance sheet of the Dispensary ball has just been issued and it shows that the balance paid to the Welsbpool Dispensary is 110 18s 2d. The tickets sold amounted to JM9 4s, the donations to the Dispensary were X2 Is. and the donations to the ball R3 6s. fhe surplus handed to the Dispensary may be regarded as fairly satisfactory. In 1897 it was J616 7s lid, but in 1896 it was only JE3 13s ld. A YOUNG COMPOSER.—In Social otes in The Lady of this week we read—A novel sensation was introduced at a concert recently given by Mr Maldwyn Price, organist, of Welshpool, in the per- formance by the orchestra of a polka mazurka, composed and" conducted" by his son, a child of seven years old. The young artist ran on to the platform dressed in black velvet, made a profound bow, tapped his b&lon, and, without a particle of self-consciouness, threw himself body and soul into the business of conducting his composition, which is full of swing and originality. The audience resolutely insisted on its repetition, although encores were interdicted on the programme. The boy has already written a volume of manuscript music; he composes with the utmost facility in house or garden, apart from an instrument. He reads and enjoys a book of music like a novel, without requiring to try the piece over. Withal he is a thorough boy and a regular pickle to boot. His father is himself a distinguished composer, but stated publicly on the platform, as well as privately, that Nerveuse," as the mazurka is called, was composed by his son without assistance of anv kind, or the aid of any instrument, adding he could not tell how the boy did it. The Ipiece can be had at the composer's residence. Bryntirion, Welshpool. PROPOSED HORSE Slwow.-A special meeting of the Montgomeryshire District Entire Horse Associa- tion was held at the Royal Oak Hotel on Monday last, to consider the desirability or otherwise of hold- ing a show at Welshpool. The members present were Messrs W. Forrester Addie, E. Green, The Moors: G. W. Edwards, Morris Evans, J. F. Francis, John Lewis, R. Richards, Llanfyllin; John Richards, Llynclys; R. O. Roberts, with Mr John Evans, secretary. In the absence of the President the Earl of powis, Mr Addie was requested to take the chair. The Chairman explained that in consequence of the County Show having been abandoned several mem- bers had expressed a wish for a revival of the Welsh- pool Horse Show, and accordingly this meeting had been convened to consider the matter. After some discussion it was decided that a show be held at Welshpool in 1898. A committee of management was appointed, and the meeting was adjourned to 2 o'clock on Monday March 7th, at the Royal Oak Hotel, Welshpool, for further considering the mat- ter and deciding whether or not it would be advi- sable to add classes for cattle and sheep. The secretary was directed to send notices of the ad- journed meeting to all the present members of the Association, and also to invite the attendance of the exhibitors at the last Montgomeryshire Show. POPULAR CONCERT.—An agreeable little concert was given in the Church House on Tuesday even. ing. The audience was not large but it was thoroughly appreciative. The principal singer was Miss Jennie Higgs, R.A.M., who was warmly received and earned the plaudits of the audience. We would wish to hear Miss Higgs ia the Assembly Room. The Church House is something like a large drawing-room and voices like Miss Higgs' would be heard to more advantage in the larger Assembly Room. This is not said to detract in the least from the praise which is warmly accorded to the lady, who has just started on a career of much promise. Her first song was The soul's awaken- ing," for which she was encored, givinar, in reply, The children's home." She and Mr Maldwyn Price were again encored in the second part for the duet 0 that we two were Maying," but they contented themselves with bowing their acknow- ledgments. Her rendering of Sing, sweet bird," was warmly applauded, and she responded with We were gleaning." In this song Miss Higgs appeared to have gained greater confidence and she sang with much charm and spirit. The fault of amateurs is generally their failure to enter into the spirit of what they are singing; they are content to be merely a voice. They might learn a lesson from Miss Higgs's manner in this song. For the first time she gave some evidence of dramatic as well as musical ability, and we have no doubt that as she gains confi ience and experience it is by this way that she will find a way to the hearts of her audiences. At the interval between the t.wo parts the Vicar thanked those who had taken part in the programme, and specially acknowledged the services of Miss Parry, Severn street, who had done a great deal to get up the concert. Subjoined is the programme-most of the performers are well and favourably known in Welshpool. Mr T Maldwyn Price acted as accom- panist during the evening, Mrs Powell to Miss Powell's violin playing, and Mrs Price to the duet. The stage was tastefully decorated. Programme —Pianoforte duet, Misses M and W Richards; song, The soul's awakening," Miss Higgs (encore), "The children's home; song, To Anthea," the Rev W T Merlin Davies (encore), The long shoreman; reading, The tea party," Mr J Pugh violin solo, Miss Powell; humorous song, Four fingers and a thumb," Mr J Miller (ancore), "Enoch" quartette, In this hour," Miss Evans, Messrs Evans, Davies, and Whittall; song, The Parrot" (from the Geisha), Mr Wilfred Jones (encore), "Jack"; pianoforte duet, Misses M and W Richards; song, Orpheus with his Lute," Miss Lane; violin solo, Miss Powell; duet, 0 that we two were maying," Miss Higgs and Mr T Maldwyn Price; quartet, Jack and Jill," Miss Evans, Messrs Evans, Davies, and Whittall; song, "Sing, sweet bird," Miss Higgs (encore), We went gleaning"; humorous song, "1 was a little baby boy," Mr Wilfred Jones (encore), What a fool a man is to believe her." MB. TENNYSON SMITH'S MISSION.—'During the past week Mr Tennyson Smith, the well-known Temperance advocate, has conducted a Mission in the Town Hall.—On Saturday night, a meeting for workers was addressed by Mr Tennyson Smith, when he received addresses of welcome from the Rev T. C. Jones, Rev T. Rowson, Mrs Edward Hughes, on behalf of Womens' Temperance Union, Messrs James Davies and Alfred Jones. At 8 p.m., Mr Edward Jones presided, and an address was given by Mr Smith, who met the objections which are laid against him as being extreme.—On Sunday afternoon, in the Assembly Boom, at 3 p.m., Mr Humphrey Jones presided over a large atten- dance, the address being the "Threefold Cord," by Mr Smith.—On Sunday night, the chairman was Mr R. Powell, and the subject of Mr Smith's address was The Curtain Lifted," dealing with some of the evils of the traffiz.-On Monday, Mr David Jones, J.P., presided, subject this time being the The Drink Demon." At the conclusion, Mr Smith gave a most dramatic impersonation of an Inter- view with the Drink Fiend." The performance was a remarkable one, and called forth great applause from the audience.—On Tuesday the chairman was Mr D. Pryce, Great Weston, the sub- ject being The Great Struggle," the con- clusion of which, The Tug of War between Teetotalers and the Traffic," was a splendid treat. The temperance side won in the imaginary contest. A quartettee was well rendered by Miss Don Jones, Miss M. Davies, Mr J. G. Thomas and Mr James Davies.—On Wednesday Mr G. Macqueen presided, and Mr Smith delivered an address on The Search Light Flashed on the Liquor Traffic and Traffickers," in which he spoke of the connection of Church officials with the trade. A number of children sung very sweetly during a Transformation Scene," sho Ring the changes occuring in home life, where temperance took the place of drunkenness.—On Thursday the trial of Alcohol took place, the counsel for the defence was Mr J Hart, the counsel for the prosecution being Tennyson Mr Smith. MrDJ Jones was judge, the clerk of the court was Mr E Jones, and the policeman was Mr W Challinor. The wit- nesses for the prosecution were Mr R Waring and Mr John Humphreys, and for the defence Mr Harris. A jury consisted of local gentlemen-six moderate drinkers and six abstainers—of whom the foreman was Mr T Howells. After a fair trial the prisoner was found guilty, and sentenced to death.—Votes of thanks were proposed to Mr Smith, to which he responded, and thanked the committee, and especially the lady workers and secretary, for their labours for the success of the Mission. Over 100 pledges were taken during the Mission, and it is believed that much good has been acoomplisbed. A choir, conducted by Mr James Davies, led the singing during the meetings, and Miss A James acted as accompanist. A string band, composed ef the Misses James, Messrs James, and Mr J H Twist discoursed selections of music at each meeting. ? IMPORTANT SALE OF TIMBER. Messrs Morris, Marshp.11 and Poole were favoured with a very large company of the leading timber merchants at Welshpool on Thursday last, and an extremely satisfactory sale was the result. The timber was growing upon the Llanerchydol and Mamugton Estates, and was submitted in 17 lots. and Mr J H Twist discoursed selections of music at each meeting. IMPORTANT SALE OF TIMBER. Messrs Morris, Marshal? and Poole were favoured with a very large company of the leading timber merchants at Welshpool on Thursday last, and an extremely satisfactory sale was the result. The timber was growing upon the Llanerchydol and Mamugton Estates, and was submitted in 17 lots. There was lively interest shown in the proceed- ings throughout, and a sharp and keen bona fide c.'inperitiwh, the IO-M! nrimlliii reu hsed being £ 5,585 two lot» r!-mauiing unsold. The following wer>- the purcha.- i\- HIT! price* r< aliscl — ON THK LLANKRCHYDOL KKTATE. Lot Purchaser £ 1 Wuim'imvn at, 26 J 2 Messrs Jenkins a:;d Jones, Kuab m 5 3 Mr Horner, Stockport 170 4 Messrs Caswell and Bowden, Birmingham 315 5 Mr Jitbez Barker, Shrewsbury 320 6 Mr Horner 6)0 7 Do. 540 8 Withdrawu at 425 9 Mr CromptoL, Manchester 450 10 Mr Horner 205 11 Mr Richard Pryce, Montgomery Saw Mills 265 12 Mr Jabez Barker 520 13 Mr Richard Pryce 390 14 Roe's Timbe« Co., Limited, Derby. 500 ON THE MARR INGTON ESTATE. 1 Messrs Roberts and Cooper, Brierley Hill 200 2 Mr Jabez Barker 290 3 Messrs Barlow and Sons, Stockport 250 SALS OF WORK AT THE CHURCH HOUSE. Sales of work in ai 1 of Church efforts in Welsh- pool aie now so rare that there is no need to apologise for their re-institution. It was to this effect that the Vicar (the Rev Grimaldi Davis) spoke on Thursday at the Church House when he called upon the Mayoress to open a sale of work, organised by the members of the Girls' Friendly Society, to provide new cassocks and surplices for the Parish Church choir. Timefwas, he aid, when Welshpool church people often used to resort to these means to raise money for religious purposes, but that was in the almost dim past. In other parts, however, they were still frequent and were, moreover, patronised by the highest church dignitaries. Their use was not only confined to raising money, but they were the grand means of bringing people together, and making them more sociable and keeping up an interest in the church (hear, hear). The sale of work was held under the auspices of the Girls' Friendly Society, and he thanked the ladies of the committee whe had organised the affair for their efforts. It would be invidious to mention names as he was doubly sure one and all had worked hard. He had much pleasure in calling upon the Mayoress to declare the sale open.—The Mayoress said I am sure you will not object if I do not add any- thing to what the Vicar has said beyond expressing my great pleasure in declaring this sale of work open (loud applause). The room was prettily decorated for the occasion, bannerettes being suspended from the ceiling in profusion, and the heavily laden stalls with many pretty articles of sale added greatly to the pcene. There were three stalls under the charge of a host of willing assistants, members of the society, and friends. Among those present were Mrs and Miss Davis (the Vicarage), Miss Mytton and Miss Parry (Mansion House), Miss Dorothy Mytton, Miss Salter, Mrs Salter and Miss Owen, Mrs Fisher, the Rev F H and Mrs Hawkins, the Revs Merlin Davies, D Stephens, and J Jenkins, Mrs and Miss Addie, Mrs and Miss Roper, Mrs Hawksworth, Mrs Morris Jones, Miss Amy Jones and Miss Jones (Gungrog), Mrs and Miss Jones (Westwood), Mrs and Miss E Jones (Clive Place), Mr and Mrs T Maldwyn Price, Mrs G D Harrison and the Misses Harrison, Miss Corrie (Dysserth), Mra Wyke, Miss May Wyke, Mrs C P Yearsley, Mra T Morris, Miss Humphreys (Belle Vue), Mrs T W Daviet, Mrs Smith, Miss Crabb, Miss Mcta Farmer, Miss Golding, Mr H D Barrett. Mrs Vaughan, MrB Parker. Mrs Alec Davies, Mrs aud the Misses Roberts, Pool Quay; Miss Green, The Moo rs; Miss Kinsey, Buttington Hall. During the after- noon selections were given by Mr T. Maldwyn Price's string band, which included the following First violins, Madame Price, Miss Powell, Messrs Clement Jones and T. Williams. Second violins, Miss Ethel Evans, the Mis.-es M and Gladys Davis, Miss W Richards, and Miss Parker. Double bass, Mr J. Whittal, organ, Mrs T M Price, piano- forte, Mr T. Maldwyn Price. The band was conducted by Master R. Price and rendered two of the young composer's pieces Nerveuse" and Margherita." Miss Addie sang, in Japanese costume, some selections from The Geisha," while songs were given by the Rev Merlin Davies and Miss Richards. At six o'clock a duologue was given entitled Cynthia's Captive" by Miss N. Richards and Mr S. Quilliam which was much applauded. The proceeds of the sale are estimated at X43. COUNTY POLICE COURT.—FRIDAY. Before Mr. S. Powell and Colonel Twyford. Joseph Perkins, The Bog, Salop, an 011 man, who stated his age was 83, was brought up on remand charged with obtaining money by false pretences. From the evidence of P.C. Owen (Forden), it appeared that on the 10th instant the officer went to Leighton Hall and there found the prisoner asking for money and something to eat. He had with him a book, which was produced in Court. The officer looked at the book. and then asked accused several questions. To these questions the latter gave answers almost identically to what was set down in the bonk, namely, that accused was in great trouble, having had his house burnt down, that his wife was lying on a bed of sickness, that he had many doctors' bills to pay, and that his daughter had died off her head in Bishop's Castle Workhouse. The book was signed by a Richard Jones, school- master, who, prisoner stated, lived at Pennerley, Salop Prisoner was then taken into custody, and on searching him at Welshpool, the officer found on him 914 3s. Oid., and a book dated January 3rd, 1897, with a tale similar to that in the 1898 book. By the instructions of Deputy Chief Constable Crowden, the officer went to Pontesbury and Pennerley to make enquiries concerning prisoner's statement. Mr. Jones, Pontesbury, to whom the prisoner referred him, knew nothing whatever about prisoner, and there was no schoolmaster at Pennerley of the name of Richard Jones. There had not been a house burnt down in the district for upwards of 60 years, and as to the story that prisoner's Vife was ill, she had been dead many years, but his daughter had died in Bishop's Castle Workhouse. Prisoner was in receipt of 2s. 6d. per week from Bishop's Castle Union. When the officer came back from making enquiries, prisoner said the schoolmaster had gone to Klondike (laughter).—Prisoner's book was produced, and it was found that he had obtained money in all directions, principally from the gentry of the district. The prisoner said all that what the officer had stated was a falsehood, and he then produced some receipts for money he had paid away and money paid to him. It appeared that he owned some land which brought him in a fair sum.—Mr. S. Powell said the Bench were convinced that prisoner was a thorough impostor, and he would be fined Xb, including costs, and his books forfeited.— Colonel Twyford advised prisoner to clear out of the district, and stated that if he was caught begging under false pretences he would be sentenced to three months.—The fine was deducted from the ACIO kept by the police as a guarantee for his bai 1, the remainder being handed to the prisoner, who took the matter very philosophically, remarking that It was a very bad case." LOCAL GOVERNING BODY. YESTERDAY. Present: Mr W. Forrester Addie in the chair, Messrs James Davies, R. Jones, E. R. James, and J. Morris, with the clerk Mr E. L. R. Jones. THE LEASE OF THE PLAYGROUND. A letter was read from the clerk to the County Governing Body enclosing a form under which an application might be made by the Welshpool School Managers for an order investing in the official trustee, the property demised by the lease of the 11th December for the purposes of a playground, and requesting that the signatures of as many as possible of the school managers might be appended to the form.—In reply to ques- tions, the Chairman said the meaning of the appli- cation was vesting, so far as they had the power under the lease, the playground connected with the school, in the Charity Commissioners.—Mr R. Jones asked if signing the application would prevent a permanent building being erected.— The Chairman replied that a permanent building could not afterwards be erected without the con- sent of Lord Powis, and the Charity Com- missioners. Personally he saw no reason why thej should not sign it.-In reply to Mr E. R. James, the Chairman said be did not know whether there was anything to compel them to sign it, but if they did not do so, the Charity Commissioners would want to knpw the reason, and they might suspect the Managers of having some other object in view.—Mr James: And prevent us from borrowing money (laughter).—It was ulti mately decided to sign the application. COLUMN HOUSE. At the last meeting the Clerk was instructed to enquire whether the lease of Column House (the temporary school) could be terminated on the 1st of May next, and in answer to his enquiries Mr G. M. Salt (Shrewsbury) wrote to say that by the agreement he saw that the premises were taken from the 25th March, and in order to determine it, notice should have been given at Michaelmas last. They would probably know whether the Conserva- tive Club would be safe and eligible tenants, and if they could get tenants he would be desirous of meeting the Governors.—The Chairman said there was a possibility of responsible tenants coming for- ward to take the place off their hands, and in all probability an arrangement of a mutually satisfac- tory character would be arrived at, so that the Governors would not pay more rent than for the time they occupied the place. Failing that they would be held to their agreement which would ter- minate next Lady Day twelve months.—In reply 'o a- memner ine Chairman said that as soon as the (remises wire takeu off their hands they would be d with then. The solicitor and not the Governors vn,u:d bf responsible for the tenants. CORRESPONDENCE. Mr E H Reese. Shorthand Teacher at the School in replying to the Clerk as to the terms under which he was engaged, wrote that his agreement was JE5 per term for two lessons per "week for the senior forms, the rudimentary work being undertaken by one of the masters —The Chairman thought the letter should he sent to the Headmaster asking him if he had any comment upon it.—An application was received from Mr Rider for an additional half Jscholarship. Mr James did not see why they should make any difference, the scholars were all on the same I footing. — The Chairman was afraid they were I almost at their limit in regard to the amount to be I spent for scholarships.—The question was adjournei I for further consideration.—Mr R. E. Owen certified that David Shankland had passed the fifth standard, and that Laurence James had satisfied him in an equivalent examination. Both were over the age of ten years. The Chairman: It is very business-like of Mr Owen to send in certificates of the kind. An application was received from Mrs M. M. Owen, Church Terrace, Berriew, applying for a bursary for her son who attended the school. After letters had been read in the boy's favour from Head Master and Mrs Humphreys-Owen, Mr James, proposed that a bursary of £3 for three terms be granted—Agreed. An application for a remission of fees from Mr W. M. Ireland was refused.—Mr F. Roper applied for payment of an account for printing which he stated bad been incurred by the Governors six years ago. The amount was for J63 10s 8Jd. The Chairman said the Governors were not liable for the account which was incurred mainly by the Vicar and Mr Roper. It was per- fectly unfair to charge them with it, but he was willing to subscribe privately if the others would do the same.—The Clerk was instructed to reply that the Governors did not think they were liable. MISS ROBINSON ON MANUAI- TRAINING. At the last meeting a report was received from the County Governing Body on Manual Training and was referred to Miss Robinson (the Head Misstress) for her opinion. She wrote as follows:— While fully sympathising with the claim of manual training to a place in the school tima-table, I am keenly alive to the fact that whatever time is given to it must be taken from other subjects and can ill be spared. In fact I do not think it possible to diminish the time at present given to any one single subject. If we are to reach a creditable standard in that subject during the school year for the purposes of the Central Welsh Buard examination a definite amount of work must be done. That being so, I wish to suggest (1) that no technical subject be adopted as additional, but merely as alternative to some other subject already in the time-table. The number of hours we should require the services of the technical mistress would naturally vary with the number and nature of the subjects chosen. Those proposed are, I believe, Cookery, Laundry, Dress- making, and also the kindred subjects—Domestic Economy and Hypriene. I do not think it would be wise to attempt too much the first session, and suggest (2) that a choice be made between Cookery and Laundry (the second subject can always be introduced if required). The requisite time would then be—Domestic Economy Hygiene f, which equals Ii hodf-s; Cookery or Laundry 1 or 2, Dressmaking 1J total 5 hours, or one school day. Apart from this, I strongly advise that (3) Welsh- pool should endeavour to secure evening classes for (a) children who have already left school; (b) children who may at some future time leave without having had special manual training, their parents thinking it advisable to keep technical and general education separate from one another—a course which, personally, I recommend (c) outsiders—Adults. In conclusion 1 should like (1) to ask if a seperate fee is to be charged for technical instruction, (2) to heartily support the recommendation of the committee, "that, subject to the decision of the District Managers, no special technical instruction be attempted in the lowest forms."—The Chairman characterised the report as very deoisive and clear, and one well worthy of consideration. But the time had not yet arrived to decide upon it; it would be better to wait until they got into their new schools. There was no doubt that they should make use of the schools, not only for evening classes but for everything that tended towards the good of the town.—The consideration of the report was deferred. MISCELLANEOUS. A suggestion from Miss Robinson, as to changing the school hours from 9 to 1 o'clock, instead of to 12.30 was postponed.—Miss Robinson stated that as Ethel Davies had left the school at Christmas, she would recommend that Edith Jones (Llany- mynech) be awarded the scholarship for the re- maining two terms.—The Clerk was instructed to reply that the Governors considered they had no power under the scheme to transfer a scholarship.— Bills amounting to JE57 38 3d on the general account were ordered to be paid, and on the building account the bills amounted to £600 7s 2d. —The Chairman said the Building Committee had visited the school buildings and found that satis- factory progress was being made with the work, and the contractor had told them that they would be completed by the end of March.—While the bills were being passed on the building fund account, Mr J. Morris asked what was the amount of the contract.—The Chairman £ 3060.—In reply to Mr Morris, the Chairman further stated that they had still £600 or JE700 more to pay to the contractors.—A cheque in favour of the contractors for JB500 was drawn.—It was decided to refer the question of the opening of the school to a special meeting of the Governors.

LEIGHTON. PARISH COUNCIL.—A meeting of the Parish Council was held at the Guild Room on Tuesday, when the following members were present: Messrs W. Griffiths, W. Powell, T. Jones, W. Rothwell, Miss F. Naylor, and the Rev. J. Sawer; with Mr J. Evans (clerk).—Edward Davies, Farm Cottages, Thomas Evans, Old School House, and Thomas Jones, Brickyard, were appointed parish constables.—A bill for repairs to the.turnstile on the footpath was allowed.—A small committee, consisting of Messrs W. Powell, W. Rothwell, Webster, and the Rev. J. Sawer, was appointed to consider the offer of lectures made by the County Council. CRICKET CLUB CONCERT. The annual concert in aid of the funds of the Leighton cricket club—always a popular fixture— was this year as well patronised as usual, a good house and thoroughly successful. The Audit room, where it was held, was gaily decorated with flags, banners and palms. The popular president ef the club (Mr John Naylor) was unable to occupy his accustomed place. As Mr G. D. Harrison, who presided, explained that it was nothing but stern necessity which kept him away, and he had sent an inferior substitute in himself—("no, no")—to take the chair. Among those present were Mr and Mrs G. D. Harrison, Miss Naylor, Miss G. Naylor, Mr and Mrs Bruce, Mr and Mrs Rothwell, Mr and Mrs Webster, the Misses Francis, Miss Mcintosh, Miss Robinson, Mr and Mrs Elton, Mrs Corbett, Mr and Mrs Williams, the Misses Powell, Misses Davies (Hendomen), and Mr H D Barrett. The first item was a violin solo, very well rendered, by Miss James, accompanied by Master Victor James. Miss Lythgoe sang excellently "A tiny bit of string," but Mr T Farr was not happy in his choice of his song, Genievieve." Miss G Naylor is a favourite reader with Leighton audiences. Last year she opened a new vein in reading a selection from Mrs Caudle's Curtain Lectures," and this year she continued the adventures of poor Mr Caudle by reading the button scene, which elicited much applause from the audience. Miss M Davies gave a sympathetic rendering of Darby and Joan," which was deservedly applauded. The comic part of the programme was assigned to Mr J R Thomas, who gave, in character, the song," Enoch," very cleverly. He had to respond to an encore. A quartette by the Bwlchyffrid Glee Singers showed some musical ability, and a later attempt met with more success. Miss Majfgie Bruce gave The amorous gold fish in fine style but a trifle too fast. Mr Wilfred Jones quite sustained his splendid repntation as a humorous singer with the song Lum turn de diddley um," which fairly brought down the house, and an encore was enthusiastically called for. He responded with the Bogie Man." The Chairman said the audience would no doubt be much intererted in the next performance which was a pianoforte duet by two young ladies well known to them, the Misses Rothwell, whose first appearance it was in public. The piece, which was entitled Silvery waves," was well played from beginning to end and met with a hearty reception. The Misses Rothwell give promise of becoming accomplished musicians. Mr E. Farmer excels in Plantation songs with banjo accompaniments, and he delighted the audience with the Darkie's Courtship." Part one was concluded with a song entitled The four-leaved Shamrock," by Miss May Humphreys, who is always welcome. After an interval of ten minutes the programme was re- opened with a pianoforte duet by the Misses Powell which was exceedingly well rendered. After songs by Messrs J. G. Thomas, Wilfred Jones, and Miss M. Davies, Miss Lucy Watkin gave a capital recitation, which was followed by a song in char- acter, entitled "Nancy Lee," by Mr S. T. Bamber. Mr Bamber, in his sailor costume, sang so well that the audience loudly demanded an encore. Miss May Humphreys sang A Tangle of Golden Curls" very sweetly. A Negro stump oration was delivered in capital style by Mr J. G. Thomas, so that the house fairly roared again. The other items included sones by Miss May Humphreys, accom- panied by Master Victor James, and by Messrs J R Thomas (encored), E Farmer, and T Farr. At the conclusion Mr W Bruce in an appropriate speech pro- posed a vote of thanks to the Chairman which being seconded by Mr Rothwell, Mr Harrison suitably responded. The credit of organising this excellent concert is due to a committee comprising Messrs W Bruce, W Geikie (hon. sec.), T Corbett, W Roth- well, W Jones, and P Williams.

GUILSFIELD. PARISH COUNCIL, Tuesday.—Present, Captain D H Mytton (presiding), Messrs E S Green, J Warren, T Green, j Blayney, D Jones, T H Griffiths, D Rogers, E Richards, E Williams, and R Colley, with the clerk, Mr T Davies.—The Chairman said at the last meeting it was decided that the clerk should examine the parish award and see whether the Gaerfawr footpath was marked thereon. He asked the clerk for his report.—The Clerk said he had examined the map but could not see the road marked thereon. He believed there was one section of the map which he could not find.—The maps were produced before the Council, but after some search the road could not be found.—The Chairman then asked if the map produced was the tithe award. —The Clerk: Yes.—The Chairman said the tithe award was not the right map. After some conver- sation the matter was deferred, and the clerk was instructed to ask for the township award.—Mr D. Rogers called attention to a bridge near the Little Stone House, which he said was in a very bad state of repair. It had never been mentioned at the Council before. He asked if it could be put on the agenda for the next meeting. It was between the borough and rural districts.—It was ultimately decided to defer the matter, and in the meantime the clerk was instructed to call the attention of the borough and district surveyors to the bridge.—The Chairman remarked that at the last meeting of the Llanfyllin Rural District Council it was reported that the different representations from Parish Councils took up a great deal of time, and it would be a great advantage if they (the Parish Counoils) could find out some means of getting those little grievances settled without recourse to the District Councils.—The Clerk presented the new list of Parish Constables for the year 1898, which was approved. The appointments were as follows :— Pryce Evans, Pantglas; Thomas Williams, Clawdd William Rowlands, Yew Tree; Thomas Williams, Burnt House; William Evans, Park; William Peate, Perthy; John Lloyd, Sarney Wm Parry, Rhedescyn; Robert Fox, Bank Cottage William Lloyd; Thomas Jones, Moel-y-Garih; Robert Hard- ing, Gaerfawr.—The Chairman said in order to keep within the statute it would be necessary to bold another meeting that day fortnight and to have a parish meeting for the election of Parish Council- lors on the 15th of March. He proposed that at the parish meeting a date be fixed for the considera- tion of the question of a burial ground. They wished to have the voice of the whole parish, and as it was a very awkward question and the parish of Guilsfield Within was affected considerably it. would be well to have a separate date for the con- sideration of the matter.—At this stage Mr Jones (King's Head), who, though not a Parish Council- lor, was present with two or three other persons i. the room, volubly protested against the Chairman's remarks. His remarks seemed to be to the effect that he wished the question to be discussed there and then.—The Chairman Yon are not a Parish Councillor, in fact pnly one of the audience— (laughter)—and I do not think you can join in onr deliberations.—Mr Jones still protested and had te be again called to order by the Chairman.—The Chairman, continuing, said he had been thinking that the best plan would be to appoint a committee to confer with the Corporation or the clerk of Welshpool as to the way in which to set about pur- chasing a buiial ground.—It was agreed to refer the matter to the parish meeting.—At the last meeting it wan decided, as a new vicar had been appointed who would not be sufficiently conversant with the charities, to appoint a committee to assist him in the distribution.—The Clerk now read a letter, dated December 15th, 1897, from the Rev F. H. Hawkins on the subject. He regretted that the committee had been appointed too late to be of any service to him as the tickets were made out o. Monday, the 13th December, and were practically distributed throughout the parish by the 15th. He had, however, sent six tickets to the committee and asked them to distribute the same. In a later letter, dated January 3rd, the rev gentleman acknowledged with many thanks the kind assist- ance rendered by Messrs David Jones and E Rogers in the distribution of the charities.—This was all tbe business. —————

TREGYNON. GBBIZIM CnAPEL COMPETITIVE MEETING. — A successful meeting took place at the Chapel oa Wednesday evening. The adjudicators were: Literature, etc., Rev 0 L Owen, Adfa; music, Mr D 0 Jones, New Mills; writing, &c., Miss Grinley, Gerizim School. The chairman was Mr E Lewis, R.D.C., treasurers, Messrs J Williams and. Andrew, secretary, Mr J Hughes. The following were the prize winners Written examination for those under ten years, 1 T James, 2 Ella Williams; also for those under 12 years, 1 Sarah James, 2 Alfred Hawkins. Welsh recitation, 1 W Williams, 2 E Williams and S E James. English recitation, 1 Alfred Hawkins, 2 Ella Williams, 3 T James. Children's solo, 1 Sarah James, 2 Annie Lewis, 3 C Jones. Dialogue, 1 J Parry and P Williams, 2 D Thomas and T James. 348, S.S.S. for 8 to 12 voices, C Williams and party. Speech David," 1 Emily Williams. Duet for children, 1 E Hughes and S James, 2 A Lewis and C Jones. Unpunctuated reading, 1 T Andrew. Handwriting, 1 S James, 2 2 A Hawkins. Epigram The school managers," 1 J Jones. Solo competition (own selection), 3 C Williams with the II Noble boy of truth," 2 T Williams with Beautiful isle of the sea." Written examination on part of I Samuel for those under 16, equal Evan Hughes and David Thomas, also for those under 21, 1 J Parry, 2 J Hughes. Word forming, 1 S James, 2 E Hughes, who also held the same place in the spelling bee. Copying by ear, 1 J Hughes, 2 C Williams. Duet, J and A Lewis. Modulator exercise, 1 J Hughes, 2 E Hughes. Trie, 1 C Williams and party. 2 R Williams and party. Quartette, C Williams and party.

LLANLLWCHAIARN. DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES.—The annual distribu- tion of prizes to the children attending the Peny. gloddfa and Canal Sunday Schools, took place oa Thursday evening, when the chair was occupied by the Rev R. Evan Jones, and Lady Pryce-Joncs kindly distributed the prizes. In opening the pro- ceedings the Vicar referred to the death of the late Mr Keedwell, who, he said was always present at their annual meeting, He also referred to the death of Mrs Cliff, who was one of the most regular at- tendants at school and also to the departure of Mr Fred Vanner, assistant superintendent. Lady Pryce- Jones then kindly distributed the prizes to the children, after which the Rev T. Enoch gave an in- t.eresting:account of the school which, he said, had an average attendance of 280. The usual votes of thanks were passed and responded to. After clos- ing with a hymn and prayer, Lady Pryce-Jones kindly gave an orange to each of the children.

LLANFAIR. EXTENSION LECTURES. — Mr C. Bryner Jones lectured at Llanfair on Live Stock on Friday evening. The Rev O. Jones, Gelli, presided over a large audience. Questions were frequently asked by the audience and ably answered. DINNER.—On Thursday eveninga complimentary dinner was given to the number of about forty at the Goat Hotel by Mr C. A. Teape, Morben, Mach- ynlleth, to the tenants of the estate over which he has shooting right around Dolanog. The catering was efficiently carried out by Mr and Mrs Jones. The chair was occupied by Mr Teape, and the usual loyal and patriotic toasts having been duly honoured, the health of Mr and Mrs Teape was given by the Rev D. LI. James, and received with musical honours. Mr Stanley Teape, Dolanog, gave the health ot the Tenants and guests," and coupled with the toast the name of Mr Tom Jones. Mr Jones remarked in responding, that he had never known before such social and friendly feeling exist between tenants and a gentleman who had the right of shooting over their land, and he hoped Mr Teape would long remain among them. Mr R. Griffiths, on behalf of the tenants, testified to the kind and careful conduct of Messrs Teape and their friends while out over their farms, which above all things would induce farmers to preserve the game. Several songs were given by Messrs Astley, Griffiths, James, Jones, and Sibley, and a very pleasant evening was spent.

LLANGYNIEW. CONCERT.—An evening concert was given in the Schoolroom yesterday week, presided over by the Rev S. Reed, R.D., in aid of the school bniliing fund. A well sustained programme was carried out by the following: Mr Wilfrid Jones, Welshpool; Miss Parry, Meifod; Mr W. James, Pontrobert; Miss Reed, Mr S. Teape, Dolanog; and Messrs P. A. Reed and E. Sibley, Llanfair. The room was crowded to excess, and the concert was a great success.