The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

[PUBLISHED BY SPECIAL ARBANGEMENT.] THE FORGE OF LIFE, BY J. MONK FOSTER, Author of A Pit-Brow Lassie," "The Cotton Kin! Slaves of Fate," The Watchman of Orsden Moss," In Red Snow Written," Judith Saxon," The Queen of the Factory," &c., &c. COPYRIGHT. Thus at the flaming forge of life Our fortunes must be wrought, And on its sounding anvil shaped Each burning deed and thought." Longfellow. CHAPTER XLVI. To BE OR NOT TO BB Since her arrival at Braxholmc Park Miss Ashbourne had had it-maid of her own. This arrangement was owing to no desire of Molly's, either expressed or im- plied but was wholly due to Lady Russell-Wentworth's kindness and sense of the fitness of things. It appeared so iiiiicl,, itiol-P in hooping with Miss Ashbourne's posi- tion HH the affianced bride of the son of the house and so it had come about that the Pentonmoor lass, Hester Thomson. had been chosen for thnt position. It w: < the morning following Russell-Weutwortli's flying visit to Braxholme, and Molly was again wander- ing somewluit aimlessly through the extensive tract of park-hkgrounds surrounding the big mansion. Every waking Lour since her plighted lover's unexpected ap- pearance on the previous afternoon had been taken up in the contemplation of the question he had asked then, and the answer she had half-reluctantly given. For many months she had dreamed of the high honour of becoming the wife of a man who could not only give her all those things which wealth could purchase, but would give her the right to call herself Lady Russell- Went worth soma day fultl lmt was surely enough to set the wits of any erstwhile factory maid aglow with unbounded delight and self-glory. But from the very beginning there had been one bitter drop in her cup of joy. Even at the moment when she had cast one lover aside to accept the other she had realised that the humbler wooer was the lord of her heart; and the many kindnesses of Lady Russell- Wentworth, the considerate toleration of her husband, and the unswerving adoration of the son, could not tear from her heart one imago imprinted there. Often enough Molly had bitterly reproved herself on account of her inability to fling- Frank Ellesmere wholly Out of her life and thoughts. She wanted to forget liini—-to remember no more that they had been more than mere friends, and her woman's nature refused to be dominated by her woman's will. She loved him, felt that she must ever lovo him, and at timero she was con- scious that she was not one woman but two women-ono of whom was hungering for riches and high places, the other one who merely desired peace, love, and simple contentment as a loved man's wife. Then had come the agony of remorse and knowledge born of that last meeting with Frank. She had heard of hi arrest on the very eve of flight had read of his trial and his committal to the Assizes had learned with a kind of wondering1 awe and admiration that he had practically convicted himself of the abominable charge of which lie was accused, by absolutely refusing to say where he was at the moment the thunderous reports of the explosions rang- forth on the midnight air. Too well she knew why he was silent. His love for her had sealed his lips. Rather than incriminate her he was prepared to go to penal servitude. What a won- drous thing ft man's love must be to make him act so. He loved her madly; had but to utter half a dozen words, and she would be banished from Braxholme in disgrace, and he would be free. Yet even to spite and overthrow his own rival he would not betray her. The realisation of all this rankled in her soul like venom. Then she comprehended how vile a thing she was. and how noble a man was this she had discarded. She ban treated him with the most utter cruelty and contempt, had trampled under foot all his highest and holiest feelings, and his only retaliation was to treat her as if she were an angel, willing to endure all shame and tortures rather tuan make a scoff of her name. Even the serving--iniis, Hester Thompson, bad put her young mistress to shame. She had urged Molly to tell the truth and save her old lover from prison had begged of her to tell Lady Russell-Wentworth where Frank Ellesmere had been that night—had urged her even to quit Braxholme and make a clean breast of the business to the proper authorities at homo. But Molly had refused to do bad implored her maid to keep inviolate the secret she possessed had promisea to heap upon her all sorts of rewards in return, and so far the j>'irl had been swayed to her mistress's wishes. Yet a grim haunting fear that ever lurked in the background that some day. any day, the maid might break her promise, divulge the truth, and shatter Mody's ambitious dreams to pieces. To speak the truth now, when Frank Ellesmere had chosen to suppress it. would plunge her into a very gulf of trouble. She could only do so at the risk of losing all, for what could all the Russell-Wentworths—father, mother, son—think of the woman who had met an old sweetheart at midnight within the very precincts of her affianced husband's home Nay, more. was she even certain of winning Frank back after her treachery to him ? By offering her evidence at the very outset it would have been an easy matter to have proved an alibi on the accused man's behalf. Her own word and that of Miss Thompson would have been sufficient to stay proceed- ings against him. But to speak now after such a long absence would be to set the whole of Pentonmoor ablaze with curiosity. She and Hester would be forced into the witness-box would have to stand a close cross- examination all, the incidents of that evening and night would have to be set forth in detail; the notes passed between herself and Frank would have to be sworn to by Hester the midnight meeting also and then with the sneers, scorn, and prurient laughter of all who knew her in her ears, Russell-Wentworth would repudiate the woman whose love and fidelity he bad every right to suspect. Such thoughts as these were passing through Molly Ashbourne's active brain as she strolled slowly along the broad gravelled avenues, under the bourgeoning trees of Braxholme Park. And above all other thoughts one thought stood out insistently. She was within touch almost of her goal at last. At that moment her betrothed lover was in London, seeking a special licence in order to consummate their speedy union. wi any h°urt she might hear from him now. What must she do when the summons came? Would she be glad or sorry to have this trying ordeal over? She could not tell even then. She feared to take that irrevocable step which would bind her to Ilussell-Went- worth for the remainder of her days, and yet she hesi- tated to face the storm her re-appearance in Penton- moor would create if she went back as the saviour of Frank. Torn by conflicting fears, hopes, desires, she knew not what to do. Of one thing alone did she seem certain. She had erred grievously in coming away from home. After all was not a honest man's love worth all the world besides? A marriage for the sake of worldly considerations might have been forgiven— might have been tolerable even—had her heart been free. But her heart, her soul, her life, were in the keeping of one she had basely deserted and allowed to go to prison for the sake of keeping her good name untarnished. A little cry behind her—a woman's voice raised to attract her attention—caused Molly to turn suddenly. Then she saw Hester Thompson speeding towards her, one arm uplifted, and waving a letter in her hand. She turned on her heel, went back towards her maid, and soon they were face to face, the mistress outwardly quite calm now. What is it, Heater ?' A telegram for you, Miss Ashbourne. It came only a few minutes ago, and thinking it might be some- thing of importance I thought it best to run after you with it.' I am glad you did so, Hester, for I think I know ,hat it is about,' 1\Iolly auswerecl. Then she tore off the cover with trembling fingers, and read the message. It ran :—■ 'From Russell-Wentworth. Langham Hotel, London to Mary Ashbourne, Braxholme Park, Sussex. Make necessary excuses and join me here with your maid as soon as possible. All arrangements made for special licence. Marriage can take place in a few days. Have engaged rooms for you and servant. You need not wire back. Come at once. Am waiting. Russell-Wentworth.' White-faced aud agitated Molly turned to her com- panion. At last she felt glad that she was called upon to act definitely, nt once, in some way. She thrust the message in the girl's hand and bade her read. What does it mean, Miss AsliboLiriie P the maid asked as she glanced over the telegram. It means that we are to go to London at once, where I am to be married.' That was why the young master came yesterday, and you to]d me to say nothing of his visit?' 1 Yes. it was,' Molly murmured, her eyes filling- with tears. Are You going-and Frank Ellesmere in prison?' the lllaid demalHletl. ,„ .i I 1 (10 not know what to do the agitated woman cried lilit I promised, and he is waiting. Oh, Hester Hester how I wish I had never left Frank I am miserable here, and the thought of Frank is nearly killing me. Whatever must I do ? Go back to Pentonmoor at once the sensible maid cried firmly. Go hack home if you are miserable here, and speak the words which will help to prove Frank Ellesmere innocent. You ought to have openei your lips sooner, knowing what you do; but, thank heaven, it is not yet too late It I leave here now I leave for ever, Hester Moby cried. What of that ? There's an honest lad eating out his heart in prison for your sake, and you love Iiiiii, vet hesitate as to what you should do. I know wlmt I would do, and what a hundred honest wenches would do, too. Choose London if you will, but I am going back to Pentonmoor! So there. Molly Ashbourne 1. ^es^er, I will go too—we will go together tnis very 'fi i '*0:' forgive me for my selfish weakness, but I win hesitate no longer. I do not care for Russell- entwoi-th. au;} j wJJJ ]lo{. m;irry Inm. I will save oan evefl if he throws me off, too, I can go wm-l t2c. milL Go<* bless you. Hester for those ( s- It is not too late for us to save him yet CHAPTER XLVIL—THE WOMAN'S TRUE HEART. tlinti/lLtrP''8!8 from London to the North had just form w-io H..e Nation at Pentonmoor, and theplat- P'ISSPRXROI.^1 ^^ting the usual scene of bustling activity, so t\Yf>ni (+ie- ^'S'^hig to the number of a dozen or y r thirty travellers were looking after seats, and stationmaster, porters, men, women and children waiting for other trains, completed the picture. Among the few others who had left the express were Molly Ashbourne and Hester Thompson. Both were quietly dressed, were neat-looking and composed, and those who knew them seemed to think that the pair of' handsome lasses had simply come back to their native town after a holiday in the south. It was between three and four in the afternoon, and on leaving the station Molly and her companion set their feet towards the centre of the thriving town. The thoroughfare was busy enough, for the day was fine, and the vast majority of the ironworkers were still un- employed and as the girls went along not a few curious eyes followed the handsomer one. or You are still resolved not to go home first, Molly, before you see the Chief Constable ? Miss Thompson queried, as they turned into the street leading to the Police Court. Quite determined on that point, Hester,' the other replied- emphatically. I dare not face my mother before I have said what I have come to say. If she knew I was here, and what purpose had brought me, she would try to prevent me speaking at all costs. But afterwards I shall tell my dear father everything and throw myself upon his mercy. He loves me he never liked the idea of my throwing Frank np, even to marry young Russell- Wentworth and I'm sure of his forgiveness and bless- ing for doing this act of common justice.' Collie -tloiig then I'm ift-lti(I of nobody. Even if I lose my place there's plenty of others. But see. Molly; there's Frank's father on the other side. Why not "peak to him ? So I will. Be quick before we miss him.' Instantly the lasses quickened their steps soon they were at Simon Ellesmere's heels, presently they were by his side, and Molly was uttering his name. He turned quickly, recognised Frank's old sweetheart immediately, and at once a look of the blackest and bitterest aversion shadowed his dark face. What do you want with me lie cried, scowlingly. 1 I should have thought shame would have kept you away now You need not speak so bitterly,' she answered, lowly. You have reason to despise me, I know but I have come to save Frank at last.' Save him How ? Do that and I will forgive you all.' Come then with us. We are going to see the Chief Constable, Captain Walters. It was through me that Frank came to be suspected, but Hester here and I can prove where he was that night the outrages were com- mitted.' Ha he cried, and a flash of inspiration lit up his dark features. He was with you then ? I ought to have guessed that! And the poor, fond, honest-souled young fool was prepared to martyr himself for the sake of a woman who had cast him off to marry a puppet who was merely rich Spare me that. Mr Ellesmere she pleaded with downcast eyes as they walked along. I am not quite so black and base as you think. Hester, dear, tell him, please, how I happen to be here.' Simon turned to the other girl sharply, but with a more kindly expression of countenance. He scanned Hester's comely face closely for a moment, and she encountered his eyes without flinching. I know your face well enough, but not your name,' Simon said. I have seen you several times at Moor- hurst. But tell me how you and Miss Ashbourne happen to be here, since she wishes me to know., Since Miss Ashbourne went to Braxliolmo Park I have been her maid, 31r. Ellesmere and yesterday afternoon wo chanced to be walking through the grounds there when young Russell-Wentworth joined us quite unexpectedly, for we thought he was here at Pentonmoor. I fell behind, of course, and left Miss Ashbourne and the young master together. But I after- wards learned that he had come in lniste to urge an im- mediate marriage upon my mistress.' Without his parents' knowledge or consent?' Simon asked. Of course for he never visited the house at all. and urged Miss Ashbourne to keep his visit secret. Then he rushed away to London, and this telegram reached Braxholme only this morning between eleven and twelve.' The maid placed Russell-Wentworth's telegram in Simon's hands, and he read it with a curious smile playing round the corners of his eyes and mouth. When lie glanced at Molly again a newly-awakened interest was visioia in his manner. 'And iu y I ask, Miss Ashbourne, what caused you to rush buck to Pentonmoor when your affianced lover desired you to join him in London ? I can understand Mr Russell-Wentworth's haste, but I cannot under- stand your reluctance to consummate the marriage which you and your mother have schemed for so long.' I had become utterly ashamed of and disgusted with myself, sir,' Molly answered, almost in tears. 'At the last moment I found that life with that man would be intolerable, and so I came back to speak the words I I ought to have spoken long ago. I know how despicable I am in your eyes, and I deserve it all but so Ion.- as I save Frank I do not care what becomes of myself.' He glanced at the girl's pale face and his own softened in a wonderful way. And at that moment there flashed across his memory some bitter words he had spoken to Frank many months before. Unvoiced, they yet rolled Over his silent tongue:— Let her go her way. If she is a good woman she will come back to you, rich or poor if she is worthless let her drift in her own fashion to the Bottomless Pit! A few minutes later they were all standing in the private room of Captain Walters. He knew Miss Ashbourne, and as his eyes rested a moment on her beautiful face he wondered why she had come there. Without waste of words or time Ellesmere proceeded to business. Captain Walters,' he began curtly, these ladies have come to speak to you on a matter of great moment to us all. They have just come from Sir Russell- Wentworth's place in Sussex I chanced to meet them in the street, and they desired me to accompany them. Miss Ashbourne you know, I believe; and this other lady is Miss Thompson, until lately a servant at Moor- hurst. Their business I leave them to explain.' 'Why do you wish to see me, Miss Ashbourne?' the chief began suavely, his appreciative glance again fixed on his visitor's face. I wish to tell you the truth respecting Frank Elles- mere's doings on the night when the Pentonmoor Iron- works were blown up,' Molly said firmly. All along I have known, and Miss Thompson has known also, that the accused man is innocent. I know that I ought to have offered my evidence before this, but the position in which. I was placed closed my mouth and Miss Thompson was silent aa well because I urged her to say nothing.' What do you know of the case, Miss Ashbourne ? If you are prepared to prove that Frank Ellesmere is guiltless I shall be delighted to hear your evidence.' I can prove that he was with me at Moorhurst when the explosions were heard. I had met him secretly, and Miss Thompson wasrfjresent then. She it was who brought me Frank's note begging me to see him a few minutes before be went away, perhaps for ever, and she also took my answer to him arranging the appoint- ment. This is the note lie sent me. I kept it, never dreaming that I should dare to show it to anyone.' The Chief took the note Molly had drawn from her pocket, and read it carefully. When he had persued it he handed it back, saying At what time did you receive that note ?' Shortly after dusk at Moorhurst from Miss Th(, 1:1PSOll.' And when did you, Miss Thompson, receive it from Frank Ellesmere?' the chief went on. Te, I minutes or so before I delivered it,' the girl answered. He was loitering near the entrance to the Moorhurst grounds, and he was there still when I returned with the answer from Miss Ashbourne.' But how was it that neither of you offered evidence at the hid The evidence you offer now would have saved him at once.' It was all my fault,' Molly cried. I was engaged to Russell-Wentworth, and I could not tell the truth without putting myself to shame. If the world had known that I was meeting my old lover clandestinely at the very moment when the outrages were ringing out what would have been thought of me ? So I held my tongue and allowed him to take his chance. If he wouldn't speak, why should I ?' I understand now why Ellesmere would not speak. That hid must be the very soul of honour the "Chief Constable exclaimed. And may I ask if you are pre- pared to swear to all this at the forthcoming Assizes ?' I n,ra! That is why I am here. I will tell the truth now no matter what the world thinks of me was Molly's instant response. 'And you, Hester, will do the same f' Willingly. As you know, Miss Ashbourne, I was ready to do so all along,' the maid said, readily. Captain Walters was about to make some observa- tion when a low tapping was heard on the closed door. Instantly the chief called out Come in,' and when the door swung back one of the inspectors of police entered. What is it, Ruddick ? Walters demanded of his subordinate. 'A gentleman to see you—Mr Bardeslev, the vicar of St Mark's,' the inspector replied. I told him that you were engaged, but lie said that his business was of the utmost importance. He says that he must see you for a few moments, as he has just come from the hospital where the injured man, Carl Hermann, is lying. You must excuse me for a few minutes,' said the chief, as he rose. But do not go before I return. I will be back as soon as possible.' Chief Constable and officer disappeared, and as the door swung to behind them Simon Ell", mere turned to Molly Ashbourne, remarking in a kindlier manner than that lie had hitherto used I itlil glad, Miss Ashbourne, that you have proved yourself a true woman even at this late hour. It would have been better, perhaps, had you seen justice done earlier, but, thank God, it is not yet too late. But your reticence has had the effect of precipitating one thing which will astonish the town some day—and very soon." I know, Mr Ellesmere,' Molly answered, almost in tears, that I have shown myself very heartless and selfish in my dealings with your son. But it is some consolation to know that in trying to save Frank I have saved myself as well from a much worse fate. And after all I shall be the greatest sufferer, for I shall never dare to look your son in the face again. My God what must he think of me now ?' She dropped her face in her hands and cried a little in silence. When she was calmer and looked into Simon Ellesmere's face he was smiling that old inscru- table smile, only it was one of perfect content now. • My son 1' he said softly, with his eyes on her appeal- ill" face. Frziiil,. Ellesmere is not my son. Mary Ash- bourne. I have tried to be a father to him, he has been to me more than a son, but there is no tie of kin- ship between us.' Mr. Ellesmere she burst out m amaze, Frank not your son ? Who then can- 'Hush!' he said, with an uplifted hand, 'Cap' ttin Walters is returning. Who Frank Ellesmere is I will tell you later—perhaps to-day.' The next moment the Chief Constable re-entered the room, and with him his reve-end visitor, the vicar of the leading church in the town. The Rev. Charles Bardesley was nearly seventy now, but hula and hearty still; his white hair hung on his coat collar and a snowy sheaf of beard swept his breast. The reader may re- member him as the clergyman who had snubbed young Russell-Wentworth so merciless!}', and praised Frank Ellesmere quite as warmly, that evening on the bank of the river when the latter saved the little bather from drowning. Mr Ellesmere How glad I am to meet you and the old gentleman crossed the room and shook Simon most heartily by the hand. I T congratulate you, sir, with all my heart on your son's indisputable innocence. I know him, sir !• I know him and I never could bring myself to believe that he was in any way connected with such an atrocious outrage.' And ag-nin the reverend servant of God shook Simon's hand warmly. I thank you very much, Air Bardesley. for your kind words,' Ellesmere said lowly, more stirred now than anyone there had ever seen him before. I sup- pose Captain Walters has told you that these young ladies can prove his innocence These ladies prove his innocence the cleric cried. I know nothing of that, sir. But I do know that he is clear of all stain in this matter. I have just come from the bedside of a (Iviiig man who with his last words declared Umt be and others were guilty, but your son was innocent.' The German Carl Hermann? Simon demanded. That is so. I have placed his dying confession, witnessed by myself and others, in the chief's hands. That is why I came here. Will you let Mr Ellesmere read it, Captain Walters ? The Chief Constable handed Simon a folded sheet of paper, and, after a pause to clear his voice, Ellesmero proceeded to read the following- brief declaration The Royal Hospital, Pentonmoor. Ayril-, 1f). 1, Carl Hermann, being of sane mind and knowing I shall soon be called upon to face my Maker, hereby declare, in the presence of the witnesses whose names are appended, that I and Tone Rafferty, Mike Fyans, and others whom I refuse to name. were solely responsible for the dynamite outrages at the Penton- moor Ironworks. And I further declare, and call God to witness the truth of my dying statement, that the yonng man Frank Ellesmere now under arrest is absolutely innocent of the crime with which he stands charged. He had neither knowledge of the con- spiracy nor hand in its execution. This I declare before God to be the whole truth. Signed.— Carl Hermann. Witnesses,— Charles Bardeslev, D.D. Geo. B. Whatmough, M.D. Janet Gough, Nurse. Thank heaven for that Simon Ellesmere cried huskily, as he handed the document back to Captain Walters. Now that the suspicion is cleared away I am content.' Turning to the chief he added, I may write to Frank at once. I suppose, to tell him of this ?' Certainly, if you wish, sir!' the other cried amiably. But why write at all ? Telegraph the glad tidings to him as soon as possible. To-morrow he will be free.' A few minutes later Simon and Molly were walking homeward together. Hester Thompson had hurried away to her own relatives to spread the great news. As they neared the post office, where Simon was to despatch the telegram to Frank, Molly queried, almost timidly. 'And Frank—Mr Ellesmere? You say he is no relation of yours. May I know who he is ?' I will tell you. He is the half-brother of the man who is waiting for you in Lontlou-Qr looking for you by this at Braxholme Park. He is the elder sou of Sir Russsell-Wentworth. by his first wife. That is the truth, so help me God And all the world will know it in a few days' time. For the present I must ask you to keep it to yourself.' She gasped audibly, and her face turned deathly pale. When he looked at her she was drawing her veil to hide the falling tears. Take courage, little woman,' he whispered warmly. After all, you came through the ordeal well.' [To BE CONCLUDED.] FIRST INSTALMENT NEXT WEEK. The title of our New Story is Tho Crown- inz of Esther." This story won the First Prize of £ 100 in an Open Competition instituted by the proprietors of the Newcastle Chronicle for the best serial submitted, and experts consider it to be a remarkable work, exhibiting- rare dramatic instinct and power of construction iu its author, together with unusual insight into character and a sympa- thetic imagination.

AN EXTRAORDINARY NOVEL* A powerful novel, and one of extraordinary characteristics in more ways than one, is L T Meade's All Sorts." Its deep human interest— for it is one of those books which one cannot put down until it is finished; its sincere moral tone, and the little-known sides of life whose secrets it reveals with unflagging interest to the end, endear it to all fiction-lovers. The charming and nneonventional heroinp, daughter of an aristocratic family, is introduced to the reader in the midst of fashionable life, portrayed with a sure hand. Duchesses and counteRses are her friends. In a moment, by a transition truly dramatic, the girl stands alone, her friends aloof, her fortune gone, her helpless Jadv-motLer ruined in purse and spirit. The adventures of the girl, and the story of the two who wooed and the one who wedded her, form a drama we will not spoil by anticipating the storv. It is a bosk, too, of remarkable courage. In a passage which has led to great. discussion in literarv oircies and caused the authoress to be interviewed by a London newspaper as to its motive, she has not hesitated to introduce the name of a widely ad- vertised article. When questioned on this point, the authoress disclaimed all knowledge of the gossip it had (as all the world knows) created. She was, in fact, asked bluntly whether this was a paid ad- vertisement, and as bluntly replied that it was certainty not so. I have," said she, "a motive in everything I write—to portray accurately the oircumstances which I try to describe. Here I was writing a conversation. I asked myself what is the sort of thing a woman would be likely to say when her friend remarked that she hnd been suffering from indigestion. I considered that her impulse would be to recommend something. I have heard these pills highly spoken of for indigestion I have heard doctors speak favourably of them, and, of course, I have read in the newspapers what people say thev have done for them. Consequently, this was the first remedy that. oecured to me, and I named it. I wanted to make the conversation life like. I wanted (as I always do) to do good work, and I should have written anything—anything," Mrs Meade repeated, "which seemed to me to conduce to that end." The passage referred to-is as follows :— I havo suffered a good deal lately from indigestion," replied mother in her gentle tones. And a bad thing it is-a very bad thing," said Mrs. Fanning. I cured myself with Dr. Williams' pink pills for pale people. Did you ever try 'em, Mrs. Wickham No." replied mother gravely. Well, well; they pulled me round. Albert was terribly concerned about me a year ago. I couldn't fancy the greatest dainties you could give me. I turned against my food, and as to going upstairs, why, if you'll believe me. I could have no more taken possession of that attic next to your young daughter than I could have fled. Now there isn't a"stair in Britain would daunt me I'd be good for climbing the Monument any fine morning, and it's all owing to Williams* pink pills. They're a grand medicine." Of course, a reference of this sort is almost unex- ampled in literarv history but there is no question of the author's good faitli; and, indeed, this subject is much "in the air" just now, and the attention excited by the reports that have been published by the proprietors of Dr Williams' pink pills concern- ing the cures effected account for the interest which they attract. There is hardly a, village, and certainly not a town, in this country that does not possess its local "miracle"—some invalid or cripple, or gome sickly man or woman, made strong and well bv Dr Williams' pink pills. They are even said to have made their way into royal circles; and the Court Journal, more than a year ago, commented on their popularity in the highest ranks of Society. "The practice of 'pink' pill-taking, so lavishly encouraged by bold advertisement," said royalty's favoured chronicle, is said to be making upward pro- gress in Society, and report has it that the product of the only genuine manufacturer—the pill with the seven-worded name so often displayed before our eyes with piteous entreaty to shun all pills with a missing word in their title -has penetrated to the most exalted circles. However this may be, it is not to be ques- tioned that pale people in tho highest walks of Society- are availing themselves of Dr Williams' discovery, and comparing notes, not without satisfaction at tho ri improvement in their personal appearance thereon resulting. "All Sous" is emphatically a book to read and to buy.

The Admiralty has accepted the tender of Laird Bros., Birkenhead, for the propelling machinery of the battle ship Montague, now building at Devon- port Dockyard. The engines, the most powerful ever placed on a battle-ship, are to develope 18,000 indicated horse-power, or 3,000 in excess of the en- gines of other ships of the Bulwark type. The difference, however, will only give the Montague a knot uiore speed. The two sets of triple expansion engines and thirty Belleville watertube boilers will cost £ 150,000. The total cost of the ship will be over £ 1,000,000.

[WHY THE POOR KATES ARE HIGH IX THE TOAVYX PARISH. A SKlilOUS MATTER FOR THE RATEPAYERS. [SPECIALLY CONTRIBUTED.] L TÍlr8 i" nothing that touches the rat"pavol" tnoro acutely than the question of the ratus. They are at all times readv to assert that the rutc& are unreasonably high and that a sufficient surveillance is not kept over their interests by ther representa- tives. Sometimes this assertion is true aud some- times, it is not. My object this weik is to eudeavour to show that the ratepayers of i he Towyn parish are not fairly treated by the Machynlleth Guardians, to arouse the ratepayers to a sense of their duty in face of this injustice, and, if possible, to originate an agitation with the view of having tilu parish separated altogether from the Machvn- lleth Union. The particulars in regard to which I shall write Are to be seen in the abstract of accounts for the year ending March 25th, 1899, which has just been published in book form. In t fie first place it may be of some interest for the ratepayers to know who are their representatives on the Board, aud for that reason the subjoined list is given of the members for the parish Messrs Wm Jones, corn merchant, Aberdovey; Richard Morgan, contractor, Brvncrug; John Owen, farmer, PcnUyn, Towvn Meredith Jones, farmer, Caethle Humphrey Jones, farmer, Cae Ceiuach, Pensal; and J Hughes Jones, Aberdovey, as an additional Guardian. Of the above Messrs Hughes Jones, John Owen, and Meredith Jones, are members of I the Assessment Committee. On glancing at the general rules adopted by the Guardians, 1 find they havi been carefully drawn out and, if strictly adhered to, they afford protection for the ratepayers. The following rule is an excellent one: That the relieving officers shall furnish the Guardians of tho respective parishes three days before the meeting of the Board with a !ist of the cases in each district, to be considered thereat." I should like to know if this rule is faithfully complied with, not only by the relieving officers, but by the Guardians. The objecL of the rule is to afford the Guardians suffici- ent time to make the necessary inquiries into the circumstances of the paupers seekiug relief, but do the Guardians make inquiries in all cases or are their efforts on behalf of the ratepayers confined to the Board meetings ? The financial statement shows that a scm of £1676 18s 6d was contributed by the parish of f Towyn last year towards the funds of the Board. This sum was spent in the following way £ 132 went to clear off the balance against the parish at the commencement cf the year; X804 5s 3d was devoted to common charges; 955 to separate charges; 110 4s 8d to workhouse loan and interest repaid; £ 562 3s 9d conuty rates; and there is a sum of zCll2 17s 25rd balance in favour of the parish at the eud of this year. Let us now see how much the poor receive from the large sum raised in rates. In the parish of Towyn the number of paupers last year was 71, and they received the total sum of 1507 4s, not one-third of the contributions paid during- the year. How- ever, out of the total zCl,676 18s 6d certain deductions have to be made for expense? connected with the administration of the relief, and this brings down the total sum contributed by Towyn parish for out-door relief to £799. It will thus be seen that as long as Towyn parish contributes zC799 towards out-relief and only receives zC507 4s it pays a sum of £ 291 16s towards the support of paupers from other parishes with which this parish has nothing to do. For the year ending March, 1898, the Towyn parish contributed X244 6s 2d in excess of what its out-door paupers J received. Where does the money go ? This is an interesting query, but let us before proceeding find if there are other parishes which pay more than they receive. I find that the following parishes have a similar grievance, but not to the same extent I as the Towyn parish :—Caereinion Fechan £ 2 4s in I excess, Darowen £ 2 10s 3d, Llanwrin zE24 12s, Scuborycoed, £ 1 5s, and Uwchygarrog £ 58 8s 6d. 1 he following parishes receive in excess of their contributions the following sums :—Cemmes £ 37 8s. contributions the following sums :—Cemmes £ 37 8s. Is3garreg £ 26 18a 8d, Llanbryamair CI53 13s 9th Machynlleth £ 31 19s 5d, Penegoes zE76 12s 6d, 1 ennal £46 6s 7d. The title usually applied to paiishes unable to maintain themselves is pauper parishes," and there sperns to be a very large number of them in the Machynlleth Union. In the year 1898 it was also found that these parishes had to be supported by other parishes, £ 244 6s 2d being taken from the ratepayers of Towyn parish. The worst sinner in this direction is the parish of Llan- bryumair, which receives no less than £ 159 13s 9d. The rich parish of Machynlleth has to be supported to the extent of nI 19 5d, whilst the previous year it received ;E59 Is 2d. Surely a town of the size of Machynlleth ought to be able to maintain its own paupers. On reference to the statistical statement it is found that the cost per head of out. door paupers in Towyn palish is £ 5 5s 8d. whilst at Machynlleth it is only £4 7s 91d. If Towyn was fairly treated the figures would give quite a different complexion, for in the comparatively small district of Machyn- lleth tho number of paupers is 82 as against 96 in the whole parish of Towyn. It is high time that each parish should be mado to maintain its own paupers and justice done to the ratepayers through- out the Union. If a motion in favour of justice all round was brought before the Board I fiutt that the totai number of votes possible is 22. If all the members for the parishes which have a grievance supported a motion for every parish in the Union to maintain its own poor I find that 11 votes would be recorded for the motion. If all the others voted against the motion there would be 11 votes includ- ing that of the chairman. But if the chairman did not vote there would be a majority of one for the motion. In the statistical statement I find that the rate- able value of Machynlleth has decreased from £ 7,103 in 1898 to C7,096 in 1899, and the assessable value front zC6,344 to £ 6,337. As regards Towyn it has increased from £18,200 to X19,144, and the assess- able value from X14,478 to £ 15,441. IViti, the exception of Towyn nearlv all the parishes show a decrease in their rateable value. Where there is an increase it is of a few pounds, but in the parish of Towyn-tbl" parish which distributes its money all over the Union—there is an increase of nearly £ 1,0C0. Have no new buildings been erected at Machynlleth, or, indeed, have some of the dwelling houses there been closed ? It is high time that the representatives of this parish should wake up and lay the whole case plainly and seriously before the Board. Great complaints are made in this district that buildings are assessed too heavily and that our representatives do not stand up for the ratepayers at the Assessment Committee but go against them. To me it is evident that the rates in other parishes should be increased and thoie in the parish of Towyn decreased. One more complaint against the members for the Towyn parish and I shall c!o.e my remarks for this week. Would it not be better for them to sacrifice a whole day at Machynlleth instead of a bait day in order to try and see this matter rectified. As soon as the relief list for the parish of Towyn is gone through, the Towyn members I leave the Boardroom to the rest of the members of the Board who are allowed to do as they like HI fact, it is a general complaint at the Board that the members for the parish of Towyn leave the room before the relief list is completed. I trust that in future trore watchfulness will be shown towards the interests of the person who has to pay the piper."

ABERDOVEY. GENEROSITY. Again this year Mrs Howell, Craigydon, and Mrs Lewis, Biyndovey, have shown their deep sympathy with the local poor by gener- ously distributing amongst them coal at.d other necessaries duriug the past two or three weeks. THE ABSENT-MINDED BEGGAK.—Collections were made in the Aberdovey Church on Sunday in com- pliance with the Queen's request, to augment the Mansion House fund for the wives and families of our soldiers now fighting in South Africa. The amount collected was zE28 os 3d. This, in addition to the sumjpreviously subscribed ( £ 37 Is 6d)|by the Churenpeople of Aberdovey brings the total sum to £ 65 Is 9d. The Rev S "Evans, B.A., preach -d morning and evening, the Vicar, the Rev J Rr v- lands, M.A., being absent owing to illness. 1 oe Rev W Williams, M.A., the Bishop's Chap!in, assisted at the morning service. The collec' a was one of the largest ever made in the Chnrc; CRICKET CLUB.—At a meeting on Tuesday ei-, ing it was decided to form a cricket club for the ,e. town. It was stated that satisfactory arrange- ments had been arrived at with the Cambrian Railways Company in regard to the land between the railway station and the main road, where it is intended to make the pitch. Captain Eirocb Lewis was elected president of the ciub, Captain John Evans treasurer, Mr W Yaughan Thomas and Mr Z Jones (National Schools) secretaries. Captain Edwards and Captain Bill were nominated to cat,. vass the town for subscriptions towards the club. The following were elected on the committee:—- The President and the officers, Captain Edwards, Captain Bill, Messrs R 0 Richards, J Daniel Hughes, R Festiu Williams, E L Rowlands, J M Howell, W Jones Hughes, and Arthur Tomlins. The club has excellent prospects.

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LOUISE MASSET EXECUTED. PRISONER CONFESSES TO THE CRIME. Louise Josephine Masset, aged 36, a French governess, was executed at X ewg-ate on Tuesday morning for the murder of her illegitimate child, Louis Masset, aged three and a half years. The crime was of a peculiarly cold-blooded nature. The child had been reared by a woman who received regular payment from Miss Masset, through the father, a Frenchman. She regularly visited the child, but on October 26th she took him from his foster-mother, ostensibly to send him to France, by the desire of the father, but at Dalston Station it was proved she went into the ladies' lava- tory, and there strangled the child, leaving the body in a nude state, covered only with a shawl' Mrs Dyer, the notorious Reading baby farmer, was the last woman executed at Newgate. At a quarter to nine the prison bell began to toll, and between 2,000 and 3,000 persons must have been present, Not more than a few seconds had elapsed after the hour of nine had struck when the black flag was run up from the quadrangle, announcing to the world that Louise Masset bad met her doom. The appearance of the flag was greeted with loud cheers but the crowd, which was a most orderlv one, ar once quickly dispersed. The execution was carried out by Billington, assisted by his son. Siuce Sunday, when the Home Secretary's final decision was communicated to her, the wretched woman had remained in a most despondent and de- jected state of mind. The condemned woman did not show the slightest symptoms of fear at her; approaching end. She scarcely touched her break- fast which consisted of bread aud batter and tea. The Rev Mr Ramsav (prison chaplaiu) was wit.r; her to the last. The process of pinioning wan carried out without the slightest resistance, and, to the relief of ali, she confessed to the crime, her last words bei::g, Wha.t I am about to suffer is just, and now my conscience is clear." She walked wilhout assistance to the scaffold, The final preparations were speedily made and the bolt drawn. Death appeared to be instantaneous. The wretched woman behaved with wonderful firmness and self-control right up to the last.

-+- SAILORS SUBSIST OX STRAW. The German schooner Kate has been towed into Grauton, after having been four months on the voyage from Oldenburg to that port. The vessel had met with rough weather in the North Sea, and for three weeks the crt w had subsisted ou straw and rainwater, their stock of provisions and water having been exhausted. Naturally tie men when landed were in a deplorable weak condition. It is believed that the barque Disponent, of Arundel, has been lost with all hands while on a voyage from the Tvne to Norway. Tue crew numbered eleven, and the captain's daughter was also on board.

THE GREAT REMEDY, ø", <r.¿ A f ■ .r. X'isM "vat?1 tjfo ¥•11 LS. FOR T7 GOUT, RHEUMATISM, SCIATICA, LUMBAGO, NEURALGIA. Claim a superiority over all other GOUT and RHEUMATIC Medicines. They give relief from pain in a few hours, and a speedy cure without the slightest inconvenience. All Chemists and Stores, at Is. lid. and 2c. 9d. per box. POSTERS printed in all colours at the Oorj-rr -t- 'l'l),IF.S Office, Welshpool, newest typo, and style and moderate charges

PRESENTATION TO THE VICAR OF MELIDEN. On Monday afternoon the 1st inst., the Rev E 0 Williams, Vicar of Meliden, was the recipient of a pleasing presentation from his parishioners in cele- bration of his restoration to health and his return to the parish. The proceedings which took place at the Natienal Schools, were presided over by Mr Rice J Williams, Rhyd. There were about 200 present. A sumptuous tea was provided for the guests by the committee, and afterwards the preset tations were made in an appropriate speech by the Chair- man, congratalatory and appreciative addresses being also delivered by Mr W Horsfall, Bryngwalia; Mr T Edwards, Leckatue; Mr F J Gamlin, Rhyl; and Mr Daniel Roberts. The presentation to the Vicar consisted of a beautiful silver pocket communion service bearing the following ins-cription :—" Presented to Rev E 0 Williams, Vicar of ileliden, by the parishionerb as a token of esteem and regard, Januarv 1st, 1900." He was also presented with a handsomely illuminated aadress of which the following is a copy :—To the Rev Edward Owen Williams, Vicar of Meliden, Flint. We, your parishioners and members of your congregation, offer you our hearty congratulations Olil your restoration to health after a loug and serious illness; and we trust you and Mrs Williams may enjoy many years of health and happiness. Will you accept a slight token of our regard and esteem for you and her with our best wishes. We des;re to assure Mrs Williams of our sincere esteem—by her kindly ways she has already won the hearts of those with whom she has come in contact. May every blessing attend you bothin the future and forever ruot-e,Signed on behalf of the subscribers, A Nicholson, R C Welsby, J.P., Peter Morris, Thomas Jones, Wm Horsfail, John Kriller Webster, M Price, secretarv.— Dated Jan 1, 1900." Mrs Williams was presentedwkh a beauti- fully embroidered banner with Welcome to Meliden." The Vicar in acknowledging the presentation ■aid When I received the invitation the other dav it came upon me as a very pleasant surprise to know that you thought of me at all during my absence, and I don't know how to thank you adequately for the beautiful address and pocket cumn>union service you have given me, and the hearty welome you accorded to my dear wife, and the more you know of her the more you will appreciate her (applause). The silver communion service is a thing 1 have always wanted, and you could not give me anything more useful. The address shall always be my most treasured posses- sion, and I promise you that it shall be iiuiiz in the most prominent place in the Vicarage (applause). Again t'aariking you all for the great kindness. W ishing you all A Happy and Prosperous New Year" (applause). The proceedings terminated with a vote of thanks to the chairman for presiding.

TRAGEDY IN WALES. An inquest was held at Llangollen on Saturday, before Dr Davies, on the body of David Williams, whe on the previous day attempted to murder a companion named John Goodwin, and afterwards shot himself dead. Evidence was given to show that Williams had been drinking heavily and had got into a depressed condition, and a letter that was produced showed thai he bad contemplated taking Goodwin's life, although there was appar- ently no cause for bad feeling between the men. The jury returned a verdict of suicide during temporary insanity. Goodwin, although wounded in two places, is not considered to be in danger.

RUSSIA AND CENTRAL ASIA. The Calcutta correspondent of the London Mail says The general attitude of the press here with reference to the latest rumours of Russian activity in Central AFia is to treat them as another of the usual periodical scares, and to minimise their im- portance. The general impression here appears to be that they are circulated with the view of creating panic in England, and thus of helping the Boor", In any case India is wido awake, and fully prepared for any emergency.

¡ CAMBRIAN RAILWAYS. CHEAP WEEK-END EXCURSION TICKETS f. L J' :o1,j j Are now issued 011 EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY 'i ) *Birmrno-ha.m. #\VolveriiaiLptoii, '*VaN.ali, Peterboiough, Leicester, *Derbv, Burton-ear-Trent, =¥- ;3afr"rd, *CoveiItry, Manchester, Preston. Blackburn, Bolton. Leeds, Dewsbury, Huddersfield. Liver- pool, Birkenhead, Wig-an, and Warring- ton, flora Oswestry, Llanymynech, Llanfyllin, Montgomery Welshpool, Newtown, Llanidloes, Machynlleth, Borth, Aberystwyth, Aberdovev, Towvn, Bar- mouth, Dolgelloy, Harlech. Portmadoc, Penrhyc- deudraeih, Criccieth, and Pwllheli. SIMILAR TICKETS All1; ALSO -ISSUED From Aberystwyth, Borth, Aberdovev, Towyn Barmouth, Dolgelley. Harlech. Penrbyndecdraet-h Portmadoc, Criccieth, and Pwllheli, to; SHREWSBURY. Tickets to hese stations are not issued from Welshpool. EXTENDED ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE ISSRF. OF TOrRIST TICKETS FROM CAMKRIAN STATION TO THE VARIOUS HEALTH RESORTS IX ENGLAND, SCOTLAND, AND IRELAND- ARE NOW IN OPERATION. For full particulars see Tourist Programmes, which may be had at all stations. EVERY FRJDAY AND SATURDAY, CHEAP WEEK-END & 10 DAYS, TICKETS Will be issued from Liverpool, Manchester Stock- port, Chester, Crewe, Stafford, Shrewsbury, Brad- ford, Leeds, Oldham, Huddersfield, Halifax, Roch- dale, Wakefield, Blackburn, Chorley, Accrington, Burnley, Bolton, Wigan, Warrington, Preston Leicester, Derby. Burton, Stoke, Burslem, Hanley Birkenhead, Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Wed. nesbury, Walsall, Peterborough, Northampton, Hull, Sheffield, Barnsley, &c., &c., to Oswestry, Llanymynech, LL nfy lEn, Welshpool, Montg-omery, Newtown. Llanid- loes, Machynlleth, Borth, Aberystwyth, Aberdovey, Towyn, Barmouth. Dolgelley, II Hariech, Portmadoc, Criccieth. & Pwllheli. CHEAP WEEK END TICKETS (Friday and Saturday to Monday or Tuesday) w ill be issued on EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY Also 14 DAYS' EXCURSION TICKETS From nearly all Cambrian Inland Stations, to Machynlleth, Borth, Abervstwyth, Aber- dovey, Towyn, Barmouth, DolgeHey, Harlech, Portmadoc, Criccieth, and Pwllheli, also to Rhayader, Builth Wells, Brecon. ♦ — ON EVERY THURSDAY and SATURDAY in DECEMBER, FULL-DAY A* HALF-DAY EXCURSION TICKETS will be issued to LIVER- POOL (Lime Street, Edge Hili, Spellow, or Walton). via Whitchurch and Crewe, and to SEACOMBE, via Ellesmere. Wrexham, and Hawar ier. Bridge and to MANCHESTER (Lon- don Road), as under :—From Oswestry, "[¡!1 day at 3 40 a.m. and half-day at 11 50a.m. and 1 53 p.m. (via Whitchurch and Crewe) from Ellesmere at 9 0 a.m for full day, and 12 5 and 2 15 p.m. for half-day; to Seacombe only (via Wrexham) 9 5 a.m. for full day, and 12 10 p.m. for half-day Third-c^ss fares for full day To Seacombe and Liverpool, 3s 6<1 To Manchester, 4s. Half-day To Seacombe, Liverpool and Manchester, 2ti 6d. Passengers return tr.e same day from Liverpool (Lime Street) at 6 50 p.m., or 11 55 p.m., Edge Hill ar 12 0 midnight, Seacombe 75 p.m. and from Manchester (London Road) at 7 0 p.m., or 12 0 midnight. RAMS Are now conveyed between Stations on the Cambrian Railways, at a charge as for Two Dogs, with a MINIMUM OF TWO SHILLINGS EACH RAM EVERY THURSDAY AXD SATURDAY IN DECEMBER, 1899, CHEAP EXCURSIONS WILL BE RUN TO LIVERPOOL AKD MANCHESTER From Llanidloes 6 4J a.m., Newtown 7 12. Mont- gomery 7 28, Welshpool 7 50, Llanymynech 8 15, Llanfyllin 7 55. Oswestrj 8 40, Ellesmere 9 0, and Fenn's Bank 9 21. For times of trains at intermediate stations 8 handbills. ON EVERY THURSDAY avd SATURDAY in DECEMBER and until further notice. Cheap Day and Half-Day EXCURSION TICKETS wil be issued to SEACOMBE, and HAWARDEN (for lIarwarden Castle), from Oswestry, Ellesmere, Overton-on-Dee, Baugor-on.Hee, and Marc-bwiel. For full particulars of train times and fares, see handbills. THE Special Attention of the Public is drawn JL to the FURTHER REDUCED RATES fo the conveyance of FRESH MEAT, Including Welsh Mutton also for Butter, Cheese, Fish, Fruit, &c., Station to Station at Owners Piisk. Also to the Reduced Scale of Rates for Parcels bv Passenger Train. For full particulars apply at the Stations. MINIMUM CHARGE. SIXPENCE. ^JECOND CLASS TICKETS are now issued he Ks ween Cambrian Stations and stations on the London and North Western and Great Western and other Companies' Lines. These Fares a,re based on a very small addition to the Third Class fares. GREATLY EXTENDED A R R A N G E M E N T S FOR THE ISSCE OF WEEK EXD TICKRTS (Friday or S&turdaj to ilonday or i'uc-ay), TO CAMBRIAN COAST STATIONS AND WELLS FROM STATIONS IN ENGLAND, Are now being put into operation. They include Bookings from Bath, Bristol, ( are* bridge, Darlington, Durham. Gloucester, Lincoln Cheltenham, Harrogate. Mxidieshorough, New- castle-orj-Tyne. Nothmgham, Norwich, Scarborough, Sunderland, Tyr- month. U'orcester. Ac PIC-NIC PLEASURE PARTIES' Tickets, at reduced fares, are issued (with limitations) at all Cambrian Stations to Parties not less than Six First-cl&ee or Ten TLird-clasE passengers desirouu of tuaksric .Pleasure TZj:cursors to places on or adjacent, to this railway. Single fares for double journev will be charged for parties of 3J First-ciass or 50 Third-class pas- sengers.. To obtfin these tickers application must be made to Mr. W. H. Gough, Sviy.erintendett of the Line Oswestry; or at any of the Stations not less than three days before the date of the Excursion. Further information regarding Kxcursion Trains and Tourist Arrangements on the Cambrian Rail- ways can be obtained or. application to Mr W. B. Gongh, Superintendent uf the Line. Oswestry. C. S. DENNISS. Oswestry, Oct., 1899. General Manager -_n_ PRITIG of every descr;otion executed with i- dispatch at the COUNTY TIMKS Oiice," elsh- Puol. 1 irsi-ciass Coaxaiercia! Work a speciality ( Ksfcuiates given.