The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

THE WAR. LAST NIGHT'S CENTRAL NEWS TELEGRAMS. PRETOFIA UNDEFENDED. Central News Agency, Durban, Wednesday, states refugees who have arrived here from the Transvaal declare that Pretoria is entirely unde- fended, the artillery having been sent to the frunt. President Steyn is removing his household effects from Bloemfontein to Pretoria. THE MANSION HOUSE FUND. The Mansion House Transvaal War Fund amounts to £634,500, of which sum £62,000 has been sent in the result cf the collections taken in the churches and chapels cf England and Wales in obedience to the Queen's mandate. WHAT MIGHT HAVE HAPPENED. To-night's London Gazette contains despatches from Lord Methuen describing the battles of Belmont, Graspan, and Modder River, and from General Buller describing the repulse of the Tugela River and also a longdespatch from General White. General Buller severely blames Colonel Long com- manding the Artillery for disobedience of explicit orders. General Buller believed that if he had had at his disposition at the critical moment tht Artillery he arranged for he would have been victorious. Captains Congreve and Reed and Corpl Nurse are recommended for the Victoria Cross for gallantry in the attempt to save one of the guns.

CAPTURE OF SPION KOP. SPEARMAN'S CAMP, January 23. On Thursday last, the 18th, vhe Mounted Brigade, under the command of Lord Dundonald, swept round in the direction of Acton Homes, where they surprised and routed a small Boer commando. On the same day Sir Charles Warren marched his division five miles to the east of Venter Spruit. At daybreak on the 19th he formed his camp, and was joined by 1he Cavalry. In the afternoon the column resumed its march, heading, to all appearances, for the comparatively open country east of Acton Homes, well under the Drake nsbergs, but at three o'clock the following morning the Infantry were suddenly ordered to leave the bivouac, and were marched up to the range immediately on their right, 0n a level with Spion Kop. The occupation was at once effected of Three Tree Hill, which is directly opposite the western face of the Boer entrenchments. Other troops fol- lowed rapidly, and, occupying the kopje to the right front, lined a ridge on thA right, facin the pxtreme northern slope of Spion Kop. The movement was supported by a battery of Field Artillery. Shortly after daybreak the Infantry wr're given a rendezvous at Fair View Farm, on the flat below, and climbed the spur on the left of Three Tree Hill, where they took up their position. Sir Francis Clery. who was in charge of the attack, was at rlllee Tree Hill itself. Bv eleven o'clock the troops had already come undr a heavy rifle fire, directed at them fom all Bides. They suffered, however, little or no loss, and began to advance under cover of a tremendous cannonade by the Field Artillery. The battlo soon became general. The enemy— who had been heavily reinforced on the 19th, and had been feverishly busy digging trenches, n aking schanzes, and mounting guns—opened a terrific fire as the advance slowly developed. One of the Irish Battalions was exposed to the full effect of the fusillade. Every inch of ground was disputed, and our lines were raked by bullets every time the men moved forward. The enemy's Krupp and Hotchkiss guns swept the hillsides of the range, which goes by the name of Acton Homes Hills, where the battle had opened, and was still raging. The range is a series of jutting headlands and rocky spurs, running up Bteeply from Fair View to a height of 3,000 feet. At two o'clock the Boers raised the white flag upon the summit of a high bill, but firing was con- tin ued on bot h sidell. Lord Dundonald's Cavalry Brigade was in action on the 20th. The South African Horse, under the command of Major Childe, took two kopjes. By this time Lord Dundonald had reinforced the South African Horse. As soon as the Boers commenced shelling Major Childe was killed and four men wounded. Major Childe had had a peculiarly strong presentiment that he was going to be killed, and had asked his brother officers before the engagement to put the following words over his grave: "It is well with the child, it is well." This has already been done. Lord Dundonald read the funeral service. Lord-Dundonatd reported that the Colt auto- matic guns are very effective, and says that the Boers will not f: ce their fire. He also says that the honours of the engagement at Acton Homes lie with the Imperial Light Horse, the Natal Car- bineers, and the 60th Mounted Rifles. GENERAL BULLER'S REPORT. The following despatch was issued by the War Office on Thursday morning :— From General Sir-Redvers Buller to the Secretary of State for War. SPEARMAN'S Camp, January 25. Warren's troops last uight occupied Spion Kop, surprising the small garrison, who fled. It has been held by us all the day, though we were heavily fI [,tacked, and especially by a very annoying shell tiro. I fear that "ur casualties are considerable, and have to inform vou with regret that General Woodgate is dangerously wounded. Warren is of opinion that he has rendered the enemy's position untenable. The men are splendid.

SPION KOP ABANDONED. The following has be0n posted at the War Office:— From General Sir Redvers Boiler to the Secre- tary of State for War (received January 26th, 6 a.m.) :— SPBARMAN'S CAMP, January 25th 12.5 p.m.— Warren's garrison, I am sorry to say I find this morning had in the night abandoned Spion Kop.

FEELING IN LONDON. The news received to-day, following AO closely upon General Bailer's telegram announcing the occupation of Spion Kop, has caused intense dis- appointment. The impression of jubilation which prevailed in London yesterday has given place to a wave of depression, but there is no abatement in the feeling of determination to carry the war to a successful issue.

GENERAL FRENCH'S FORCE. RENSBURU, Jan. 23. General French is proceeding with the utmost deliberation, and with the greatest caution, to draw his lines more closely round the Boer position. Every successive day seeB the net made tighter, greatly to the alarm and uneasiness of the enemy, who have made several attacks of late on oui out- pOBs-in the hope, apparently, of breaking the cordon. In these engagements the Boer tactics have been a repetition of those employed by them with signal success at Majuba Hill. But this time they have not been crowned with victory the attacks have •OP every occasion been most pluckily repulsed. The movements of General French may appear -very slow, but they are undoubtedly sure. It is already evident that the Boers have been out- generalled-at least, in this particular region. Members of the enemy's force frequently effect their escape into our lines. The latest arrivals state that the Boers number about 7,000 men, that their supplies are running short, and that many Englishmen, formerly Burghers in the Free State, been commandeered, and forced to serve against their countrymen. They, of course, would welcome a cessation of hostilities. Three weeks ago, we are told, the commando received reinforcements of 1,000 men from before Ladysmith, and 600 from Magersfoctein. The centre of the Boer position appears to be Colesberg Junction, which is surrounded on all sides by low ridges and kopjes. These are all held by the enemy's outposts, whiie there are several main laagers pitched on sites capable of being speedily defended from the base of the Junction. Their lines of communication are still strongly protected as far back as Norval's Pont, while they .still hold com mand of the road to Colesberg Wagon JJridge. The position occupied by the troops under General French forma a great semi-circle round that held by the Boers. It lies along a wide encircling range of kopjes, and at various points are spurs which approach the Boer kopjes. The latter are smaller and lower than onr own, and are, therefore, commanded by our guns. On one left is a hill directly opposite hi, and about 500 yards distant from the Coles berg kopje occupied by the Boers. There the opposing forces spend whole days in "sniping" each other across the intervening valley. There is no doubt that General French could take Colesberg, which lies two miles away, at any time he pleased, but he has refrained, so far, from bombarding the town because of the pivsenee in it of non-combatants, including women and children.

VOLUNTEERS FOR THE WAR. ENTHUSIASTIC SEND-OFF FROM NEWTOWN On Thursday morning Newtown was early astir to give a hearty and enthusiastic send-off to the gallant members of the 5th V.B. S.W.B. who have volunteered for active service in South Africa. The day was a memorable one. The section numbering 23 mobilised at Newtown on Saturday and went through a course of training during the week and Thursday was fixed for their departure for Brecon for their fizial examination and preparation. The progra mine for the morning was as follows Parade, 8.30; Divine sen ice at 9 departure of train, 9-45, and long before the appointed time the men could be seen wendi'ig their way to the Ai-moury and there was a frtit muster of the members of "A and" B" l';omp'i!:i, gi\'e t heir' '¡,rave comrades a magnificent, tww].¡¡ff. A pr.jc8s,¡ioll was formed outside the Armoury and headed by the band and buglers the m-ri marched down Broad Street in the following older :-Colonel E Pryce- Jones, M.P., Commanding Officer, section for South Africa, Captain Walker, and members of A "and "B" Companies. Captain A W Pryce- JOBes, Lieut-Surgeon Ray wood. Quartermaster W F Richards and Sir Lennox Napier, Bart. were also in attendance, and the procession presented a brilliant spectacle as it pioceeued through the densely crowded streets to rhe Parish Church to the stirring strains of "Tommy Atkins" and other patriotic airs. At, the Church the service was con- ducted by the Rev G Roberts, whilst Captain Walker read the lessons. The Rev J S Lewis delivered a stirring address on the words Be strong and of good courage." In the course of his remarks he said that they were soldiers of our noble Queen who were going forth from our midst that day, and were going to perform duties which were theirs at home as well as their own. He need not tell them that they had the best wishes and deepest sympathies of all, and he commended them to the care and blessing of God, and while they at home fervently prayed for all soldiers they should specially bear them in mind in the prayers which would be offered until the war W.8 over. They did not come under the Psalmist's ban against tnose who delight in war." They delighted in bravery and skill, and it was only under the sternest sense of duty that they declared war against any people. Iu the present case it was not we who had began the war but it was due to a state of misrule which bad long been intoler- ab!e in Sontli Africa. They were not desirous of making their Empire greater than it was. The pre- sent burden was as much as we could bear. What- ever our neighbours might affect to think, that was a case of necessity, and all that Empire had been forced upon us. He did not doubt that they (the soldiers) would shew themselves brave, but he earnestly implored them to act as soldiers of the Lord Jesus Christ. They must not forget to ask God to protect them in the labour before them, and preserve them from all evil, and, if it be His will, bring them safely through it all. At any rate, may none of them be found missing at the Last Day.— After the organist, Mr Macrone, had played God Save the Queen," the vast audience left the church, and the procession was re-formed, being now aug. mented by a contingent of the Imperial Yeomanry, who joined en route for the station. Here the crowd was frantic, and cheer after cheer went np as the brave fellows were escorted to the station to meet the train. On reaching the station the road became almost impassable, criowds of peo- ple occupying every available space to witness the proceedings, and as the men neared the entrance they were again accorded rounds and rounds of vociferous cheering. The men were formed into position on the down platform, and here they were besieged by a crowd of well-wishers who desired to give their friends a parting handshake, and the platform was soon a mass of humanity despite the strenuous efforts of the police, under Sergt Morgan, to keep the way clear. The excitement and en- thusiasm at this period of the proceedings was intense, and those who could get near or touch the uniform of the brave fellows seemed satisfied. At last the train steamed into the station, and every one turned to get near the gallant 23 to have a parting word. Sergt Astley was hoisted shoulder high by some enthusiaatic members of the Imperial Yeomanry, and Bugler W Clayton and Private Dicky Morris were also each hauled up and carried a few yards to the train. That part of the crowd who could not get near contented themselves with singing snatches of Marching to Pretoria," Tommy Atkins," The Girl I left behind me," Auld Lang Syne," and other patriotic and rousing airs.—Col Pryce-Jones, M.P., was in the midst of his men through all the turmoil of the populace and endeavoured to give them a parting word. The noise and cheering was however such that he could not possibly gtt a hear- ing, but not to be denied the gallant colonel jumped into the train as it went out of the station amidst the most enthusiastic, and in one or two cases, pathetic scenes, and at Moat Lane, where the train had a short halt, he delivered to the men a parting message. At, Moat Lane, Llanidloes, and inter- mediate stations the men were accorded hearty cheers as the train passed through and their send- off was equal in enthusiasm 10 any that could be accorded under any circumstances, and the outburst of feeling was also quite spontaneous. -+--

NATAL CONGREGATIONALISTS AND THE WAR. Congregationalists and Free Protestants here, who are opposing the war, will doubtless be in- terested to leurn that the following memorial has been received in London by this week's mail from the Natal Congregational Union To the Congregational Union of England and Wales: Dear Brethren,—Believing that every expres- sion of intelligent Christian conviction bearing upon the great struggle now going on in South Africa will help in some measure to enlighten pub- lic opinion at home, the Natal Congregational Union desire to express, through their Executive, the following deliberate views and convictions 1. As Christians they deeply deplore the present war, bringing with it the invasion of the Colony of Natal, with looting and plundering of hundreds of homes in towns, villages, and farm- steads. The authentic reports which they hear on this matter from scores of friends jwho have been ruined are simply heartrending. And yet, humanely speaking, the cor diet was inevitable. The war now raging has long been premeditated and prepared for by the Boers, with a view to military and political dominion over the whole of South Africa, and the plea of fighting for indepen- dence has been but a blind to hide the real aim of the enormous military preparations of the Re- publics, which commenced years before the dis- astrous Jameson Raid. 2. They desire to impress upon their fellow- Christians in England that the Boer ideal of govern- ment is a military oligarchy, the power being ex- clusively in Dutch hands; while the British ideal is based upon the equality of all white men and the humane and just treatment of the native races and they believe that this is only to be realised by the complete success of the British arms, and that in British administration lies the only hope of uniting the various States of South Africa, and of the per- manent peace and prosperity of the whole country. For this great end large numbers of the Colonists of Natal, very many of whom belong to the Church- es ami C-riC'Ly Schools of the Union, are now fight- ing at the front. 3. They hold that when the settlement comes, there should be no longer two Republics in the heart of South Africa forming a focus of intrigue and secret preparation for another trial of strength against British supremacy when Great Britain may h:tve her hands tied in some other part of the world. They deem it of vital and transcedent importance that government on British lines should be established in every state in South Africa, under one flag as in Canada and Ausr.raiia. Thev must trust that this statement of the views and convictions of the Natal Congregational Union will command your sympathy, and that you will unite with them in prayer that this terrible struggle may soon be brought to an end, and that the fruits of it i will be peace, prosperity, and freedom from the Cape to the Zambesi.— Signed on behalf of the Ex. ecutive Committee. W. H. Mann, Chairman."

WELSHPOOL AND THE YEOMANRY. SUPPER AT THE TOWN HALL. A MEMORABLE GATHERING. The Mayor and inhabitants of Welshpool on Thursday evening had as guests at the Town Hall, the members of the Imperial Yeomanry stationed in the town. A public subscription, started by the Mnv-iir at the meeting of the Council a week ago, resulted in over C40 being subscribed with a wil- lingness not hitherto known, the collectors, Mr T Simpson Jones and Mr W Humphreys, meeting everywhere with the heartiest response to the appeal. As a result a supper was given in the Assembly Lloom of the Town Hall. Mr A E Bond was the caterer and the spread was a most credit- able one. The arrangements were excellent, and better catering could hardly have been desired. The Mayor (Mr Dd Jones) wearing his chain of office, presided, and was supported by the Command- ing Officer, Sir Watkin Williams-Wynn, Bart., Col Pryce-Jones, M.P. (who was wearing the uniform of the Yeomanry), Mr A C Humphreys-Owen, M.P., the Vicar of Welshpool (the Rev D Grimaldi Davis), Capt R Williams-Wynn, Capt C T Dugdale, Capt Graham, Capt Armstrong, Capt Geoffrey Williams- Vanghan, Capt Fitz-Ilugh, C¡¡pt Rayner, Capt Cotton, Mr Owen Williams, Lieut Dr Marston, Col Hutchins, Lieut C P Yearsley, Mr W Forrester Addie, Mr G D Harrison, Mr C E Howell, Mr C Shuker, Mr T Maldwyn Price, Mr M Powell, Mr J Evans. The scene was in every respect a memorable one. It was a great occasion born of a national crisis and a spirit of patriotism, existing not alone in Montgomeryshire but wherever the language of the Briton is spoken, an occasion which outrivals anything which has- ever occurred in the annals of this ancient town. At the cross table were the conspicuous regimentals of the officers, while at three long tables, stretching the length of the room, were the kharkiclad warriors, the heartiest gathering of men it would be possible to find. The sombre kharki colour was remarkably effective in appearance, everything was gay and sparkling and everybody was happy. To describe or attempt to convey anything more than a very ftirit idea of the enthusiasm of the gathering would end in failure. No one present could recall anything ap- proaching it, and probably IT WAS AN INCIDENT in the life of everyone present which will be im- possible of repetition. About half-past eight Mr Humphreys-Owen,M.P., who was hurrying off to London and could not stav the gathering out, gave the first speech of the evening. He could not, he said, forego the honour confided to him of drinking the health of that gallant corps (cheers). They would excuse him if, even before thl Ioya! toasis, he asked them to fill thpir glasses to their own health. There were differences of opinion about the origin of the war, but no differences of opinion as to the rigour with which it should be prosecuted. Nor again were there differences of opinion amongst them as to the debt which the country owed to those gallant fellows present that evening and to the thousands of other gallant Englishmen for going to fight the battle which the nation had made its own (cheers). And not only were Englishmen, Scotchmen, and Irishmen bound together hand ib hand in this great enterprise, but we were delighted to welcome the representatives of our great self-governing colonies, glad to know there were many of them present that evening. On behalf of the county of Mont- gomeryshire he was glad to welcome those who had thrown in their lot with the yeomen of the county (applause). He felt some feeling of shame that they were not sharing the privations and sufferings and glory of their brethren in their front line. The hon. member then sa;d You are shortly going forth to share in these lists and that glory. You will have the warmest sympathy of every man, woman, and child in this county, and I profoundly wish you a prosperous and successful campaign, and a happy and safe retwrn after a peace which shall be alike GLORIOUS TO THE VICTORS and generous to the vanquished (loud applause). The Mayor of Welshpool then gave the toast of Her Majesty the Queen," but, no sooner had the words left his lips than any eulogy he might have made in regard to the greatest and noblest woman in the world was drowned in the lusty cheering which came from those kharki-clad men represent ing the voice of all parts of the Empire. Up they jumped o the seats and with glasses high above their hea' -1, handkerchiefs waving, whips upraised, they cheured until the combined band of the Yeomanry and the 4th S.W.B. gave the first notes of God save the Queen," when all joined with the greatest heartiness in singing it, finishing with loud hurrahs and drinking the toast. The Mayor then gave The Prince and Princess of Wales and the Rest of the Royal Family." They were all aware of the great interest which the Prince of Wales had always taken in whatever was for the well-being and advancement of the country. No gentleman had taken a more prominent part in supporting the various movements than the Prince of Wales and the same was also true or the Princess of Wales.—This toast was honoured in keeping with the demonstration which accompanied the first toast and God b'ess the Prince of Wales" was played by the hand and sung by the members. -Mr Blackith at this juncture sang The Deathless Army," which was received with loud applause, the company joining in the refrain. The Vicar of Welshpool, who had the heartiest possible reception, said he rose with the greatest possible pleasure to second the toast proposed by Mr Humphreys-Owen, the toast of "The Imperial Yeomanry." It was a great pleasure to him to have the privilege of being present at such a gathering. It was A MOST UNIQUE GATHERING. No one present could remember a campaign like the present and they would have to go back to the time of the Crimea for anything like the occasion on which they had met that evening. They must all deplore the terrible war in which they were engaged and he was sorry to say, and he differed from the county member, he thought this was a war of necessity (loud and prolonged cheers). Having put their shoulders to the wheel they meant to carry it through (applause). Of course he deplored the suffering which the war entailed but on the other hand the crisis had brought out excellent traits in the national character. It had shown them how deep was the loyalty of the country. It was a loyalty which enabled them to forget the party to which they belonged, in a manner they had not known for half a century, and to realise how strong was the bond of union between the mother country and the colonies (cheers). It was a matter for heart-felt gratifica- tion to find so many young men willing to come forward, and, if need be, lay down their lives for their native country (cheers). There was another matter which gave them cau3e for special grati- fication, that so many of their friends from across the border had cast their lot under the flag of gallant little Wales (renewed cheers). He was sure they would do nothing which would tarnish the name of the Principality, rather would they do much to add to its increased honour (applause). He wished to couple with the toast the names of Sir Watkin Williams- Wynn and Captain Robert Wynn.—This was the signal for RENEWED AND LUSTY CHEERING. For they are jolly good fellows" was started in different keys and at different times as though an experiment were being made in singing it as a round. However, as some declined and others ascended, it was finished evenly and in tune, and then everybody drunk "Success to the Yeomanry and the health of Sir Watkin and Capt. Williams- Wynn." Sir Watkin said he was greatly obliged for the kind way in which Mr Davis had proposed his health and the toast they had so enthusiastically drunk, and he thanked them for the way in which they had received his name in connection with it. The little he had been abie to do in connection with the organization of those squadrons had been a work of love, a work in which he had taken the greatest interest of the whole course of his life (applause). He never thought he should be called upon to raise, equip and turn out a squadron of 230 men in something under a month's time. Thev never knew what was before them in this world, they were always living and learning, and now they were learning what it was to fight for their country. Some six weeks ago the Government called upon the volunteers to assist the regulars and though many were sceptical as to the success of this project —as to whether the yeomen would be able to leave their employment or their families-yet the question had solved itself for where the yeomen were uu- able to go, there are hundreds of others willing and ready to take their places and defend the country (applause). That gathering showed that the sort of men they wanted had come forward (Hear, hear). He only wished they had been able to have their second company present to enjoy the kind hospitality of the Mayor and town of Welshpool (applause). He considered that they owed a DEBT OF GRATITUDE to the inhabitants for the kindness they had shown on all occasions since they came. He knew that when they came to Welshpool there were little differences and frictions which must arise on having a company of soldiers billeted in a town hardly prepared for them, which hardly reckoned on them, and hardly knew of their existence until they were at their doors. They owed them a debt, of gratitude it was difficult to repay. By doing this they were doing as much for their country as the fighting man who took his rifle and made for the Boers (cheers). He took that opportunity also of saying how pleased he was with the conduct of the men since they came to Welshpool. They would be glad to know that he had had no cases of any importance and the behaviour of the 150 or 160 men who had passed through Welshpool during the last month had been of such a character that it could not be said of them, as was often said, 0 those wicked soldiers" (laughter). He had always assured the kind mothers, sisters, cousins and aunts that the Yeomanry improved the young men im. mensely. They learned the use of arms, had the benefit of discipline, which would be good for them if called upon to assist their country. Few there, or anywhere else, dreamed a year ago that they would have to go to South Africa, and it might be that they would have to fight bigger battles than they were fighting with the Boers. If they read the papers they would read of the complications which were possible with other Powers and it might be that they would have to show a bigger front than now (applause). Although England bad the smallest standing army of any great nation we have absolutely the 'largest number of volunteers- (cheers)—and not only those volunteers who weie trained but it was only necessary for the Govern- ment to say "We want men" and there were hundreds of thousands ready to respond, and he was perfectly certain he was not exaggerating when he said that this country could raise three million men to fight its battles (applause). He had thought he was going to have the opportunity of leading them in South Africa. When he started to raise the corps a month ago lie thought there were GREATER RESPONSIBILITIES than going to the field, but a month of soldiering work had changed his opinion altogether, and his only wish and only anxiety now was to be allowed to go out in command of the Welsh battalion (loud cheers). There were difficulties which stood in the way, aud if another should be appointed to lead them he knew they would follow him as willingly and as cheerfully as though he (Sir Watkin) had been chosen. Although their leader would be his brother (more cheers), he did not hestitate to say he was quite competent and capable to lead the company in action in the Transvaal. Their other officers they had had the same opportunities to know as he. Their second officer Capt Armstrong.— The very mention of Capt Armstrong had an electrifying effect. Up went hats and handker- chiefs on the ends of whips, and in no time, almost every man was standing on his chair and cheering the popular captain to the echo. Then they burst out with Lhe Britishers' hymn of praise For he's a jolly good Fellow," and sang it with intense fervour. Then they cheered again and again, and concluded by raising their glasses and drinking his very good health. When this had subsided, Sir Watkin said that after that bit of feeling towards their coming Adjutant h hardly knew how to go on. But it showed that when a man, whether a stranger or a native came amongst them and did his best as a British soldier, that work was appreciated, not only by his superiors but by the men under him (hear, hear). They would like to know chat Capt Arm- strong was the only officer who had been employed from the regular forces. He was a member of the Indian Staff Corps, and how he had got to Welsh- pool was by applying to the India Office, and from one office to another until he reached the Mont- gomeryshire Yeomanry, Cavalry, having an excel- lent character from everywhere. The first time he (Sir Watkin) met Capt Armstrong he was at the office in Suffolk street, where HE WAS WAITING PATIENTLY with an envelope containing about a hundred attestations. He had seldom seen a man who took more pains in teaching young men what they ought to do, and in making thorough soldiers of them. Sir Watkin then referred to Captain Armstrong's attendance at the departure of the nine o'clock train, and be only wished that those poor fellows who went away by it had managed to hit the target a little oftener, or keep their saddles a little better. Captain Armstrong had pleaded hard for many of them, and he knew his only wish was to go out with a thoroughly hard- working crew, such as they had there that night (loud cheers). Mr Robert Williams-Wynn also responding, said a bad cold had taken his voice away. But in any case speaking was now at an end, and for the first time in their lives most of them had the opportunity for action. He could only hope that during the short time they bad known one another the same feelings which he had for them, some of them would have for him (applause). There would be plenty of difficulties in front of them, but if they met each one as they bad already met them be was sure B Company would not be the last when they entered Pretoria as a victorious army (cheers). As Capt Wynn reached the close of his speech, there were shouts for Armstrong, Armstrong," and the men would not desist until the favourite officer was on his feet. Then they cheered, and cheered again, and as soon as this had subsided Capt Armstrong protested that he had never made a speech in his life, though many of them might think he had plenty of voice because he went on parade and shouted himself hoarse. He took that opportunity of saying he should never have been there had it not been for Sir Watkin who accepted him as a volunteer just as he had accepted them. He had received the greatest hospitality from everyone, they had treated him as a brother-in- arms. He took that opportunity to thank Sir Wat- kin for taking him. Though they could not follow Sir Watkin they would all follow his brother (ap- applause). One thing more," said Captain Arm- strong. "Although I have said 'D n your soul,' I want you all to understand it has bean from a pal to a pal (vociferous applause). I have no- thing more to say, but I think we ought to drink the health of the Montgomeryshire Yeomanry pro- per, and the health of the Mayor and those gentle- men who have entertained us so royally (renewed cheers). Trooper F C Boland then gave The Absent- minded Beggar," which was one of the MOS r POPULAR RVENTS of the whole evening. Alderman Charles Howell next proposed the toast of The Volunteers proceeding to the front" and referred to the spirited manner in which the old" Montgomeryshire Volunteer Legion under Sir Watkin's predecessor Charles Wynn was raised in the county in 1803 when the French Army threatened an invasion. The Volunteer force was at all times popular, but at this juncture the toast would be received with the greatest enthusiasm. Those brave members of the corps who had now volunteered for service in SouthAfricashould receive from civilians throughout the country every en- conragement in both words and deeds. They would be well equipped and ahly commanded, and as they were about to leave these shores might be reminded of the Roman warriors of old Nil desperandum, auspice Tencro Cras ingens iterabimus requor." We might all rest assured that they would do their duty as bravely and efficiently as any branch of the service. He himself had never attained to any rank beyond that of sergeant, and that only in a cadet corps, but he had in his short service been taught to obey his superior officer. Their worthy Mayor had limited him in his speech to five minutes and therefore in conclusion, he wished the Volunteers health and happiness and a speedy and glorious return. He coupled the toast with the name of their Borough Member, Colonel Pryce- Jones. Col Prvce-Jones, M.P., in reply, said the Bat- talion which he had the honour to command had responded to a man to the order which came from the War Office. They had furnished a sergeant, a corporal and 19 privates in accordance with the order aud they had also supplied a bugler and one officer in addition. He took the opportunity to thank them for the splendid reception, LUSTY ENTHUSIASM and good cheer they had given to his fellows who had left Newtown that day for Brecon on their way to the front. He knew that those men would do their duty in South Africa (applause). They would be associated with one of the finest regi- ments of the Queen, the descendants of the illus- trious 24th (cheers), and now he wished to refer to what those gallant men and others were doing throughout the country for the greatness of our country. A short time ago the news of their dif- ferent reverses went through the whole world, but the loyalty of our colonies and the gallant way in which those gentlemen of all stations and all degrees in life had come forward showed that they had a common cause, a common interest, and a desire to represent Great Britain in this memorable crisis (applause). There could be no doubt but that the result of that campaign would be the means of making our great country greater and stronger in every sense than it has ever been before. It would weld together not only our great forces in the United Kingdom but those of our colonies. It would mean the strengthening of the Empire, the knitting together of the colonies and dependencies, would strengthen and solidify our Empire, which was great already but would be greater when this campaign is over and victory is achieved. We should treat our friends the Boers with freedom and justice, give them the religious, municipal and social rights which we enjoy in our own country and which are enjoyed in all our colonies and dependencies, and which, they would insist, should be enjoyed by their fellow-countrymen out in the Transvaal (applause). And this Empire, having succeded in bringing about that happy state of things, would be a great power for good throughout the world. It would enable them to develop the inexhaustible resources of our colonies, to extend the commerce of our country and to make the nation greater and stronger in the future. Oa behalf of his small but growing battalion he wished the Imperial Yeomanry associated with the Mont- gomeryshire Yeomanry, a triumphant victory, and that they might secure a permanent peace WITH IMPERISHABLE HONOUR. After Mr Wendell Jones had contributed a humorous song, Sir Watkin proposed the health of the junior commanding officers and the senior working officers. He referred particularly to Capt Rayner and Lieut Cotton, remarking that the lat- ler had taken a special interest in the horses, and that they owed a great deal to him for the excellent condition in which the horses had been kept. There were two other officers who worked unre- mittingly and who did not come in for the honour and glory which fell to those who went out to the front. They would remain at home and assist in the organisation of the forces going out. He re- ferred to Captain Dugdale—(loud and prolonged applause followed by drinking Captain Dugdale's health)—he was glad to see them drink Captain Dugdale's health in such a hearty manner becausejhe had one of the most important departments to look after. They would know what that meant later on when they had had two or three cold nights out in the grass, and they would then think what a nice man Capt Dugdale was to stir up the county of Montgomery to make sleeping caps, as the ladies haddone. Capt Vaughan had also given his good labours unremittingly since they began oper- ations (loud cheers during which all joined in drinking Capt Vaughan's health). These officers had done a great deal and he thought they should THINK MORE KINDLY of them for giving their services now because they were not going to fight. There were three who would have to stay at home—Capt Vaughan, Capt Dugdale, and himself, bmt there was as much work to be done at home as away. If Capt Dugdale was not going out the only person to be blamed was himself for appointing the younger officers. He gave them the health of those officers coupled with the name of Capt Dugdale. Capt Dugdale replied in a very witty speech. It unfortunately fell to his lot as the baldest headed man in the room to respond for those unfortunate officers who were not goiug out. Their hearts were with them, and would be 80 until they came back. He was certain of one thing, that the officers who were guing to lead them in South Africa would be only too thankful to have such a body of men behind them. There was one thing they had shown, that whatever the Yeomanry had done in the past, they were willing and ready to send out as good a body of cavalry as could be got together. His brain was full of sixteen-and-elevenpence that night—(loud laughter)—and they would agree with him when he hoped that no one had had more than that sum. He never thought they would have come to this. May they all meet after the war and may they all think it was no bad thing to fight for England (loud applause). Captain Rayner who also replied briefly said he was confident they had got together a body of young men from all parts of the world who would do justice to England (applause). Captain Fitz- Hugh complying with the demand of the men also responded in a few words. Mr R W Hammond then gave The Admiral's Broom in excellent fashion. Captain Dugdale said chat before they separated they must not forget the toast of Their Hosts- the inhabitants of Welshpool," coupled with the name of their worthy Mayor. They had been a WELCOME BODY OF ME8 to the town of Welshpool and they had shown them that they wished them God-speed. Be- sides thanking the town he wished to thank all those in the county who had helped to supply the equipment. They all knew that the Government allowance had not been sufficient to meet all the equipment. If they could do anything to increase their credit at the bankers they wished it go forth that they were still X500 or C600 short of meeting the equipment and he hoped that that mention of the fact would be sufficient to ensure his receiving the remainder of the money.—The toast was drunk with splendid enthusiasm. The Mayor in reply said that if there was one thing be should remember in connection with his office as Mayor of Welshpool it was that gathering with the members of the Montgomeryshire Yeomanry Cavalry. He said without hesitation that a firmer body of men he had never seen. One or two had said that the town received the volunteers coldly at first but they were a bit conservative in their views though as they came to know them they also came to like them (applause). He wished them success and if they might happen to visit Welshpool, the people of Welshpool would be glad to see them. Mr E W Haigh having sung "The Village Black- smith," Sir Watkin referred to a statement in one of the papers that because General Buller had taken Spion Kops the Yeomanry would not go out. It was strange that the Argus should have this intelli- gence which must have been printed about 4 o'clock in the afternoon. At seven o'clock he received a telegram asking how soon they would be prepared to go out. He replied that they were ready to be inspected any day and ready to SAIL TOGETHER ON FRIDAY. (Loud cheers). There was one duty in which he hoped they would join with him, in an expression of thanks to the Vicar of Welshpool for the kind advice he bad given them on two Sundays and the bold and determined speech he had made that night (cheerp). The Vicar had inspired them from the pulpit on different Sundays that they were fighting for the liberty and freedom which exists wherever the flag of this country waves. He coupled also with the name of the Vicar of Welshpool, the Militia Staff, Capt. Graham, and the Sergteants at the ciepôt who had given time to make the men as efficient as possible. He also included the name of Dr Marston to whom they all went when they were in extremis. The Vicar, Captain Graham, and Dr Marston having responded, Trooper Nelligan gave a seleetion on the banjo, and Corporal Conaby a song, Who carries the gun," which was encored. This most memorable gathering was brought to a conclusion with the singing of God Save the Queen." During the supper the Band of the 4th S.W.B. gave selections, and Drummer Roberts played a couple of pieces on the harp. Mr Maldwyn Price accompanied the songs in his usual capable manner. Outside the Town Hall some remarkable incidents were witnessed. Captain Armstrong on leaving the Hall was seized by his comrades and carried shoulder high to the Royal Oak. The men gathered round under the window, and while Sir Watkin was endeavouring to address them the door of the' hotel was thrust open, the men rushed up the stairs, seized the commanding officer, and amid loud hurrahs carried him down the stairs, along- Broad street, and back again round the Cross Pump. No sooner had he been carried back to the mess room than Captain Wynn received a similar ex- pression of popularity, and following him, Captain Dugdale, Captain Rayner, Captain Vaughan, and Captaiu Fitz-Hugh, the men cheering lustily all the while. It was a wonderful demonstration of good feeling, and those who witnessed it will carry the remembrance of Thursday night through many long years.

ABDICATION OF THE EMPEROR OF CHINA. An Imperial Edict has been issue! announcing the Emperor's abdication, and the appointment of Pu Chun, the youthful son of Prince Tuan as" his heir." It is believed that Pu Chun will be pro- claitne(I Emperor on Wednesday next, the com- mencement of the Chinese New Year. A report has reached Shanghai to the effact that the Emper- or, after singing the Decree, committed suicide, and it is even hinted that he has been murdered. Prince Tuau, father of the new Emperor, is said to be head of various secret societies hostile to foreigners. « Very extensive damage was done by fire on Thursday to the Catle Spinning Mills at Kidder- minster, belonging to Mr E A Broome.

PRINTING of every description executed neat -i- quick and cheap at the COUNTY TIMES Office Welshpool. I

THE TROUBLES OF JANE WOZENCRAFT. SWEET SEVENTY IN CRINOLINES. On Thursday, at the County Sessions, Mont- gomery, an old lady named Jane Wozencraft, fear- fully and wonderfully arrayed in the by-gone fashion of crinolines, charged her neighbour, Wil- liam Fletcher, farmer, of Hurdley, with assaulting her on December 26th on land in the tenancy of Mr Lewis, of Upper Hurd ley.-Fletcher's son, George, a lad of 10, was also charged with a similar offence on the 9th inst,-Complainant, who is 70 years of age and somewhat deaf, gave her evidence in a peculiar manner which provoked much merri- ment in Court. The gist of her disposition was that on the date named whilst coming through a wicket bearing a pail of water she was seized bv defendant who expressed a desire to kiss her. She indignantly desired him to reserve his kisses for his missus, but he refused and continued to li pull her about irl a very improper way. She then "raised the cry" on him, and hearing her screams, Mr Lewis and some persons rushed up and rescured her by the rough-and-ready expedient of dragging her assailant off by the two ends." The old lady, thinking she had seen the last of her tormentor WENT ON HER WAY REJOICING but, alas, only a quarter of an hour elapsed before "General" Fletcher resumed the attack, this time while she was essaying the ascent of a very high rail. She carried a stick in her hand, but Fletcher wrenched this from her, and that so roughlv as to cause her fingers to ache for days. His manner throughout was most scandalous and such as she had never before met with in her life. At length, however, he left her alone, and jthen she managed not without great difficulty, to get over the rail and so home, quite exhausted with her endeavours to resist the brutish behaviour of the defendant.— John Morgan, a neighbour, was called as a witness by William Fletcher. He said he was present when j complainant alleged the defendant attempted to assault her a second time. What Mrs Wozencraft said was incorrect; Fietcher never laid hands upon her; on the contrary, they both kept at a respect- ful distance, awed by the flood of UNPARLIAMENTARY LANGUAGE the complainant hurled at them.—Mrs Wozencraft: Ah You are the same here as at home. Why don't you speak the truth ?—Another neighbour, Mary Rudge, a picturesque old woman, said on the evening of the 20th of December she was returning from her day's labour when, suddenly, her progress was arrested by the sound of such a blathering and a jabbering" for all the world like the music emitted by suffering porkers in the throes of death. Hastening to the spot where the shindy ap- peared to be proceeding, she found old Mrs Wozen- craft with her mouth wide open, making a most desperate noise. Siie (Rudge) exclaimed, "SHUT UP, OLD LADY!" and passed on. The defendant Fletcher was at least 10 yards away from the complainant, and he never spoke or tried to touch her.—Mrs Wozen- craft (striking a Punch and Judy attitude) You are all telling untruths. Oh You are a nice lot of neighbours to come here and swear to all this. Oh, you-The defendant, W Fletcher, said the complainant was an extremely annoving person, who was always creating disturbances." He denied that he had assaulted her.—The charge against the boy, George Fletcher, was then investigated.—The complainant said that on the 9th of the present mouth, whilst returning home from Churchstoke, she met a lot of chiidren coming cut Of school. Amongst the troop was the defendant who, as a mark of affection and esteem, at once commenced slap-dashing her in the face with a pliant willow. She asked him to give over his tricks but he only laughed and WENT ON PLAUGINO HER for abour half-an-hour.—The Chairman (to the lad): W hat have you to say in answer to Mrs Wozen- craft ?—Defendant: Please, sir, I didn't touch her. -This concluded the evidence in both cases and the Chairman, after being informed by the police that Fletcher (senior) had .been fined bv the Court many years before on a similar charge of molesting Mrs Wozencraft, announced the decision of the Bench, which was that the elder defendant be bound over to keep the peace with the complainant and the rest of Her Majesty's subjects in the sum of X2 for three months, and also to pay 10s, the costs of the case. The charge against the boy, George Fletcher, would be dismissed. Continuing, Mr Fairies-Humphreys said the disturbances which occasionally took place in the neigh- bourhood of Hurdley were exceedingly dis- graceful. No doubt Mrs Woeencraft was a trifle irritable and eccentric, but that was no justification for the neighbours to be everlastingly teasing her. The Bench were determined to do their best towards preventing a repitition of such behaviour by severely punishtng anyone who might come before them again on a similar charge. They considered that the neighbours ought to show their respect for the complainant's great age by humouring HER LITTLE ECCENTRICITIES. In conclusion, they strongly advised Mrs Wozen- craft to turn over a new leaf and try in future to live at peace with her neighbours.—Complainant (shrilly): I never neighbour.—The Chairman: We would further counsel you to try and break your- self of the habit of using bad language, and then probably, you would get on better with those around.—Mrs Wozencraft opened her mouth to say something but she was cut short by the Chairman calling for the next case.

PREACHERS FOR TO-MORROW, t ,NOTE;Information for this list is invited. It is supplied in every case when it is communicated to us. ABERYSTWYTH.—S.S. Michael's and All Angels' Parish Church, 11 a.m., and 6.30 p.m. St. Mary's (Welsh), 11 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. Holy Trinity Church, near Railway Station, 11 a.m., and 6.30 p.m. Presbyterian Church, Bath street, 11 a.m. I and 6 p.m. English Baptist Church, 6 p.m. M Shiloh Chapel, 10.30 a.m. and 6 p.m. NEWTOWN.—Llanllwchaiarn, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. § All Saints', 11 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. English Cal- vinistic Methodist, Crescent, 10.30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Primitive Methodist, Park Street, 10.30 a.m. and 6 p.m. English Congregational, 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., Rev J Hugh Edwards. Wesleyan, 10.30 a.m. and 6 p.m., A Student (Didsbury College). Baptist, 10.30 a.m. and 6 p.m., Rev T E Williams. MONTGOMERY.—St Nicholas, 11 a.m., and 6.30 p.m., Rev E W Brown. Presbyterian, 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wesleyan 11 a.m., and 6 p.m., Mr A Hay ward. Baptist, Town Hall, 10.30 a.m. and 6 p.m., Rev C P Thomas. CHURCHSTOKE.— Wesleyan Church, 10-30 a.m., and 6-0 p.m., Mr D Pryce. BERRIEVV.—Presbyterian, 10.30 a.m., 2.30 (Welsh) 1 and 6.30 p.m. YVesIeyan, 10.30 a.m., aud 6.15 jj p.m., Rev J Tesseyman. GARTHMYL.—Providence, 10.30 a.m., and 6.30 p.m., Rev J Goodrich Oats. WELSHPOOL. Wesleyan, 10.30 a.m., and 6.30 J1 p.m. Presbyterian, 10.30 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. Con- gregational Church, 11 a.m., aud 6-30 p.m., Rev D B Evans. Baptist, 11 a.m. and 6.30 p.m., Rev T Rowson, pastor. Primitive Methodist, 11 a.m., i and 6-30 p.m., Mr D J Jones. Welsh Independent, f High Street, 10.30 a.m., and 6.30 p.m., Rev D Morgan. MIDDLETOWN.— Wesleyan Church, 10-30 a.m., and 6-30 p.m., Mr W Bramwell. DEEP CUTTING (Pool Quay). Wesleyan, 2.30 p.m. and 6.30 p.m., Rev D Davies. LLANYMYNECH. Presbyterian Church, 10.30 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. OSWESTRY.-St Oswald's, 11 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. Holy Trinity, 11 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. The School Chapel, Upper Brook Street, 11 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. English Baptist, Salop road, 10.45 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. Presbyterian, Oswald road, 10.30 a.m. and 6.30 p.m., Rev D D Williams, Oswestry. Seion Chapel, 10.30 a.m., and 6.30 p.m., Rev Griffith Owen, Rhosddu. Welsh Wesleyan Methodist, 10.45 a.m and 6.30 p.m. J Hermon Chapel, 10.30 a.m., and 6.30 p.m. Christ I Church, 10.45 a.m., and 6.30 p.m. St. David's | Welsh Church, 11 a.m., and 6 p.m. Moriah Chapel. I English Wesleyan, 10.45 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. «

ARDDLEEN. CONCERT.—A very successful concert was given in the Schoolroom last Friday week in aid of the anniversary fand in connection with the Loyal Penrhos Lodge of Oddfellows held here. The room was crowded, several persons being unable to gain admission. Mr H L Steele, secretary of the lodge, presided, in the absence of Mr J D Rogers, who was prevented from attending on account of illness. The programme which was a long and varied one, consisted of pianoforte duets, songs, action songs by the Juvenile Choir, Arddleen, conducted by Mr Rees Davies, vocal duets and comic songs. The following] is a list of the performers who took part: Miss Davies, Mr and Mrs Rees Davies, Miss Ethel Higgins, Miss Ada Jones, and Mr Bowen, Arddleen Misses Maud and May Lloyd, Mr G Lloyd, Mr Walter Ridge, Llandysilio; Mrs F Gough, Miss E Roberts, Miss Hayward, Llanymynech; Miss Owen, Mr Irrwerth Jones, Mr Wendell Jones, Mr Gregg, Welshpool. At the conclusion a hearty vote of thanks was RO- corded the performers, to Mr Jones, School House, for the use of piano, to the Venerable Archdeacon Thomas for the use of the schoolroom, and to the following members for their assistance in getting up the concert, and arranging and lighting the schoolroom, Brothers T Lloyd, Wern, Pool Quay, who took the leading part, Benjamin Pryce, T Hole, T Jones, Arddleen; R Jones, Trederwen; Percy Jones, Arddleen and Edwin Griffiths, Llan- dysilio. The singing of God save the Queen brought a very enjoyable evening to a close. LLANGYNIEW. CHURCH CHOIR.—-The members of the choir of the parish church were entertained to their annual supper at the Rectory on Wednesday by the Rector and Mrs Reed. Songs, carols, and recita- tions were given by the members, and an address by the Rector, to whom a vote of thanks was passed. ———— KERRY. CORRECTION.—In oui- report of the Oddfellows' meeting at Newtown last week we should have stated that Mr H A Dolman represented the Kerry lodge. +

FORTHCOMING EVENTS. JANUARY. 27 Annual Meeting of the Welshpool Nursing Institute at the Art Gallery, 27 Christmas Pantomime Sinbad the Sailor at the Public Hall, Newtown, 31 The Royal Welsh Male Choir (Treorky) at the Public Hall, Newtown. FEBRUARY. 7 Llanidloes District Ploughing Matches, 14 Sale of Leasehold Residences at the Talbot Hotel, Aberystwyth, by Mr J E James, 15 Trewern Annual Dance, 22 Annual Competitions of the Central Mont- gomevshire Agricultural Association on Glan- meheli Farm, Kerry, 22 Montgomery Cricket Club Annual Dance.

BIRTHS, MARRIAGES <$• DEATHS BIRTH. JUSTICE. On January 25th, at Glau Rhiew, Berriew, the wife of Lieut-Colonel F J Justice of a son. DEATHS. EYELEY. On January 12th, at Llanymynech, Charles Eyeley, late of Oswestry, in his 88th year. SUM.NIEF.FIELI).-On January 22ud, at Colfryn, Llansaintffraid, Thomas Summerfield, late of Moelvgarth, Guilsfield, Montgomeryshire, aged 64 Printed and published by SAMUEL SALTER and DAVID ROWLANDS, at their Printing Office, 21, Berriew Street, Welshpool, in the County of Montgomery. Also published by J. DENLIT? SPENCKR, at their Branch Office, Chalybeate St., Aherystwvth, in the County of Cardigan.— January, 27th 1900.