The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

CONTENTS OF INNER PAGES. PAGE 2. Aberystwyth Annual Infirmary Ileeting; Mach- ynlleth, Corris, Belan, EJlesmere, Llanfyllin, Pont- robert, Oswestry, Loton Park and Llangyniew news; National Trade Defenoe Fund. PAGM 3. The War Correspondence Forden Board of Guardians and Raral Distrct Council Parlia- mentary Aberhafest, Tregynon, Churchstoke and Berriew news. PAGJ: b. Football Notes, Matches, &c.; Hunting Appoint- ments Markets The Charities of Montgomery- shire The Montgomeryshire Infirmary The Shooting of Englishmen by Free State Boers Aberdovey neWi. PAGic 7. A Story The Crowning of Esther," by Morioe Gerard Mr Solomon Annrews and the Aberdovey Common Local Patent; The York Election.

THE SITUATION AT THE FRONT. In estimating the position at the seat of war we are prone to think only of our own failures. Admittedly these failures are surprising, but the enemy has also had his failures. He was the aggressor, and invaded the Imperial territories with the avowed object of driving the British into the sea, raising the whole Dutch population, and establishing a Dutch rule throughout South Africa. So far the British forces have failed to drive back the invaders. On the other hand, they have succeeded in preventing any further advance. As for the Boers, they have failed in all their objects. Where they have gained any advantage over the British troops, it has only been in repelling attack. They have only once ventured on an attack of their own, and were decisively defeated. That was when they attempted to carry Lady- smith by assault on January 6th. For the rest, their armies are practically where they were when the war commenced. They have not taken Mafeking, nor Kimberley, nor Ladysmith. All they have been able to do, with heavy loss, has been to check the progress of the relieving armies. That progress is not likely to be much longer delayed. Even as we write Sir REDVERS BULLER is again moving towards a fresh point of attack, which it is hoped will afford better chances of success than either of his previous efforts, Moreover the Boers are being troubled in the rear. A highly mobile force of mounted troops, recently despatched from Durban, has made its appearance in Northern Zululand, whence it may easily threaten the com- munications of the force investing Lady- smith. They have already realised the danger, and hurried up forces from their army round Ladysmith to defend their line. They will find it a difficult task to protect their railway, and a much more difficult task to repair any damage the Imperial force may succeed in doing. They have net, for instance, the engineer force and railway appliances with which our army is richly supplied, and which enable it to rebuild bridges and restore wrecked lines within a comparatively short period. In the north, Colonel PLUMER is steadily forcing his way to the relief of Mafeking. In the west General KELLy-KENNY has taken up the sixth division into a position which is the centre of a line, with General FBENCH on the left and Sir WILLIAM GATACRE on the right, and which is apparently about to advance into the Free State. The seventh division, under General TUCKER, will also soon be in the field in that direction, either to reinforce Lord METHUEN or to co-operate with General KENNY. Other troops are pouring in rapidly, and we have the authority ofMr GEORGE \VYNDHA:\lforit that when the troops now undei^orders are landed, Field-Marshall Lord ROBERTS will have under his command a total of one hundred and eighty thousand men. Critics who have been denouncing the Government for not employing more mounted men and more Colonial troops wui, no doubt, be agreeably disappointed to learn that thirty- seven thousand of the force are mounted men, excluding artillery, and that twenty- six thousand are local troops, that is Colonial volunteers. The artillery question, so much discussed, appears to be in an equally satisfactory state. According to Mr WYNDHAM, we have in South Africa, over four hundred guns, of which one hundred and ten are guns capable of throwing heavy shell, some to a distance of ten thousand yards. They include thirty- eight naval guns, thirty-six siege guns, and thirty-six field howitzers. It will still be open to captious critics to argue that, < III according to the modern standard of allow- ing five guns per thousand men, we have only about half the number of guns proper to one hundred and eighty thousand men. To such critics the sufficient answer will be that the artillery is ample for the purpose, being in tho proportion about four guns to One Boer gun, as far as it can be calculated from the latest figures of the number of guns in possession of the, Boers. Criticism of that kind is, however, becoming stale. Faultfinders are looking forward to the statements which will presently be made by the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Secretary of State for War, the one asking for a further credit for the war expenses, and the latter proposing additions to the strength of the army. The whole country is anxious to bear these statements, and will cheerfully foot the bill if efficiency be assured. On the latter point the present Government has already afforded full satisfaction, for under no War Office adminstration has the country had more for its money than under that of the Marquis of LANSDOWNE.

NOTES BY THE WAY. A good deal of practical interest in Volunteers is shown by such men as Colonel Pryce-Jones and others in keeping open the situations of the men who go to the front. Lieut II M Pryce-Jones has already taken an active part in the campaign and has earned distinction. Captain Robert Wynn is giving time, money, and personal services, and is going out to the front with the Yeomanry. The part which Sir Watkin is taking in raising a troop for service is in keeping with the honourable tradi- tions of his family. While all this in going on we can only regret that our county member should be amongst those who, while thinking the war unjust and unnecessary, are actually willing to vote funds for carrying on such a campaign. As Mr Chamber- lain said in the House this week if they considered the war unjust and unnecessary the Opposition ought to bring forward as amendment to stop it. This seems to us the only consistent course which could be adopted. The inquiries into the charities of Montgomery- shire will eventually be found to be worth the holding, if only because they will result in a com- plete record being made of the charitable bequests so numerous in the county. It is good that the trustees should be thoroughly looked up from time to time. We note that the 66 acres of land be- queathed to the Welshpool Corporation for the maintenanco of the public buildings, realise only L146 per year. This is below the average price for land in the immediate neighbourhood of the town, and it is believed that more money wO'lld be realised if, whea the land is to be let, the fact were more widely advertised. For this land to fall in value to the amount of zElOO a year in twenty years is surprising, and we think the Council might, with advantage, consider the whole matter. Again, we learn that one tenant has 36 acres of charity land, with buildings and house, for £ 12 per year. It can only be very poor land which is worth no more than 6s 8d per acre with buildings thrown in, and we should not be surprised if a re-valuation results in an increase of the rental. As we foreshadowed in a recent article, the Local Government Board have declined to sanction the loan for zE18,000 to enable the Oswestry Corporation to buy the electric lighting works for the town. There are a multitude of reasons for this action into which we need not go, but probably the strong- est was to be found in the fact that a large majority of the ratepayers were against the purchase and that the Corporation were therefore acting in oppo- sition to the wishes of the people. The confidence of the general publio was shaken at the outset, and it required exceptional circumstances to renew that confidence, and the exceptional circumstances were not forthcoming. Aberystwyth Town Council and Aberystwyth College are at loggerheads over the new Promenade. The College authorities took no action when the Local Government Board inquiry was held, but now they submit proposals which if acquiesced in by the Council will place the town in the position of subordinates to the College. The Council are, how- ever, much to blame, in electing upon the Com- mittee to meet the College authorities members of the Council who were closely associated with the College Council. Independent opinion in such matters is, of course, much the better, and if other members of the Council had been seleoted the College Committee would not have been allowed to carry such proposals. The construction of the new promenade has always been looked upon as a scheme which would be of infinite value to the College, but now the town is practioally told that it will be a nuisance and oan only be permitted under such an arrangement as practically puts the control of it in the hands of the College Council. They stipulate that no entertainments shall be given on the new promenade and that no building 1 11 be erected. As was pointed out, the College is closed during the summer months and, even if it were open during the silly season," the College Council could easily minimise the dangers of shooking the morals of the students by frosting the windows, an inexpensive item and one that would admirably serve the purpose. But whilst this would serve to keep the students pinned to their tasks, it might not find favour with the Col- lege staff, who are tried men and to whom, even in this very matter-of-fact age, a Punch and Judy exhibition is not altogether unattractive. The Town Council have sent the report back to the College Committee, and it is hoped for the benefit of both parties that nothing more will be heard of these somewhat childish and superfluous con- ditions. *#* It is reported by the keepers that the spawning season on the Dovey river has been a splendid one and the prospects for the fishing season are there- fore good. Fishing has begun on the tributaries and some excellent catches have been made. The little god who knows everything is always with us. It is well known that the men who alone can conduct newspapers successfully are all outside the newspaper world, and that our Generals in South Africa are the biggest fools it would be possible to select for the work. The bar parlours and mutual improvement debating societies vie with each other in the production of every imaginary form of hero to meet every imaginary form of orisis and, further, the finest politicians, colonial, military and naval administrators are the politicians and administrators of the pint pot and clay pipe. There are some hundreds of thousands, ranging from school boys to persons who, by changing hands in the South African game with Sir Alfred Milner, could have secured all that we wanted and much besides. The number who could have done better than Sir Redvers Buller is legion, while there is an absolute surfeit of genii who could knock Mr Chamberlain, Mr Balfour and Lord Salisbury inro a cocked hat. They know everything before it, happens, and whatever takes place finds them gravely saying I told you so." The man on the spot apparently knows not half as much as those whoare not, and those who have never seen the shores of Africa know its geography and its people, its problems and and its difficulties better than those who have been there a lifetime. The Congregational minister at home knows far more than the whole body of the Congregational Union of Natal-at least to judge by the pulpit utterances of the Rev Z Mather, of Barmouth. He has fallen into the swim of the insignificant minority and has considered a bash of foolish charges and ridiculous assertions sufficiently nutritions spiritual food for his flock. Quoth Mr Mather "The war was unnecessary and unjust, and murderous and should have been avoided." The Natal Congregational Union Humanely speaking the war was inevitable prepared for by the Boers with a view to political domination over the whole of South Africa." Canon Farmer (for the last five years in Pretoria): War was absolutely necessary and could not have been avoided. Permanent peace in South Africa is not, and was not, possible without war." Mr Mather: If it had not been for Lhe discovery of gold in that country there would have been no war. What were the Boers fighting for ? Who were fighting for freedom and righteousness ?" The Natal Congregational Union: The plea of fighting for independence has been but a blind to hide the real aim of the enormous military preparations of the Re- publics which commenced years before the disasterous Jameson raid." Mr Mather: The time would conae when the whole question would be considered deliberately, fairly, and impartially, when it would be seen who were in the right. How true were the words of the Bible that th6 root of all evil was the love of money." The Natal Congregational Union They desire to impress upon their fellow- Christians in England that the Boer ideal of government is a military oligarchy, the power being exclusively 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. For this great end large numbers of the Colonists of Natal, very many of whom belong to the Churches and Sunday Schools of the Union, are now fighting at the front."j The Rev Chas Phillips, for four years Congre- gational minister at Johannesburg, in the course ef an interview this week, said All denominations in South Africa, including the Anglican and Catholic, are absolutely unanimous in their views on the present war. We have been accused of advocating a bloody, racial war.' This is not true. So far from advocating war, we did every- thing in our powei to prevent it. We dreaded it; while, at the same time, we feared and believed it was inevitable." # # # # There is in addition to these quotations an op n letter from the Roman Catholic Bishop of Kim- berley declaring Mr Chamberlain's indictment of the Boers to be fair. The Churchmen, Noncon- formists and Roman Catholics on the spot are therefore i Mted in their condemnation of Kruger. If Mr Mother, of Barmouth has taken a correct attitude, his fellow-Christians on the spot- as earnest and truly Christian as Mr Mather-are either born fools or idiots, or they are supporting a cause which they know to be unjust. There is another alternative which we hesitate to put for- ward, but we do so because it is one of the argu- ments used by Mr Mather, not against these Christain brethren, but against the supporters of the cause generally. What about the gold mines ? Have the representatives of Christ im the Trans- vaal, in the Free Stare, Griqualaud West, in Natal and in Cape Colony, been caught in the grip of the gold fever and -BOUGHT ? Let Mr Mather answer the question. Our columns are open to him. Mr Mather will also perhaps favour us with his ideas, as a Christian minister, on per- sonal freedom and political equality, and let ns know under what conditions, if any, he would give a vote to an Outlander. Will be, as a representa- tive of the people, give a definite unqualified answer-a Yes or a No-to the question of whether the majority or the minority sheuld rule a country. And if it should happen that the majority own three-fifths of the country and pay nine-tenths of the taxes, is their right to have a voioe in the government of that country increased or diminished ?

5 YEOMANRY AND VOLUNTEER NOTES. The failure of the Transport Department to supply the necessary transports is having anything but a pleasant effect upon the Yeomanry. The troopers are now thoroughly fit, they are well officered, and no troop could have made greater progress in the time than the Montgomeryshire. They are in every way efficient, are well equipped, and by the time they would arrive at the Cape they would be fit for a great deal of work. The men are anxious to go to the front, and almost fear that news of success in South Africa would prevent their embarkation. They are thoroughly impatient to be off. It is unfortunate too that there is not available barracks accommodation, or they might be removed to barracks with the chance of better training conditions than in Welshpool. It can easily be understood that the delay is the source of an additional expense to the regiment, and we have no doubt that the labours of Capt Dugdale would be less harassing if he should receive a few cheques of a substantial order during the coming week. The sum originally asked for was £2,500, and the contributions still fall short by X400 of that sum. As the expenses are higher than was anticipated, probably C2,500 will hardly be sufficient. The amount received during the wefek has been less than £ 100. The following sums have been given since the commencement of the month :—Mr W Rogers, Trelydan, £ 2 Rev R M White, R5; Mr Howell, JE5; Mr Tiios Watkin, X2 2s; Major D W Evans, £ 5; Mr J M Bulkeley Owen, 95; Sir J G Frost, £ 20; Mr Thos Evans. Maesgwyn, £ 1 Is; Mr C Lloyd Jones, XIO; Mrs D Howell, £ 10 10s; Mr John Evans, 28 6d Mr A Chamberlain, £10 10s Mr Evan Jones, Cl Is; Mr D Jones, 5s; Mr E V Jones, 5s; Mr D Lloyd, £ 1 Is; Mr J C Rowlands, £ 1 Is; Mr W H Lewis, S2 2s Mr G G Fisher, £ 1 Is; Mr John Williams, £ 2 Mr W Openshaw, £ 25 Major General II S Gough, JE5; Mr J Danily, zC2 2s; Mr D Edwards, X2 2s; Mr A G Mounftord and sister £3 3s; Mr R R Hughes, X2 2s; Mr E Hughes, Machynlletb, Ll Is; Mr Evan Powell, JElO; Mr R Lewis, z63. The transport difficulty has brought about a change in the arrangements. On Monday the Welshpool section will march to Wynnstay, while the Newtown men will come to Welshpool and stay the night, going to Wynnstay on the following morning. Sir Watkin has made arrangements to house the whole of the 232 men and 126 horses, and the life they will lead at Wynnstay will be a fitting preparation for active service. One of the good results from this transference will be that the Welshpool and Newtown men will be together and drill together. The expense attending this change will have to be borne by the regiment. As Welsh- pool will probably see no more of the men, we hope that their departure will be acoompanied by re- freshing scenes and patriotic wishes. On Thursday afternoon Sergt-Major Tupper quitted the Yeomanry. He informed some Press- men whom he met on the railway station that he had been ordered back to his regiment and would leave Southampton for South Africa to-day. We wish him well in South Africa-if he goes. *#* Major Beck of Frongoch Hall, Llanllugan, is stationed at Tipperary with the Cheshire Militia, who expect to be called to the front. Mrs Williams-Wynn of Coed-y-maen has col- lected in the county, with some assistance from outside, zElOO for the equipment of two bed in the Imperial Yeomanry Hospital, to be called the "Montgomeryshire" bed and the "Welsh Bat- talion bed. The committee of the hospital have agreed to establish the beds under these titles. # # Privates W E Griffiths, R Morris. T Garuett and J E Jones, of th* 5th Y.B.S.W.B., who are sailing from Southampton on Wednesday for South Africa, have been made the recipients of handsome kharki coloured tobacco pouches with a silver plate attached with the words South Africa, 1900," their initials, and the initials of the distinctive departments in which they were engaged at the Royal Welsh Warehouse. These have been sub- scribed for by the employes in the departments, and were accompanied by a box of tobacco for each man, also suitably inscribed. These gifts are in addition to the silver flasks subscribed for by the whole of the employes. # We hear that Captain Lewis-Lloyd, the genial and popular officer of the the 1st Herefordshire R.V.C. (K Company) is now in London endeavour- ing to get an appointment to enable him to proceed to the front. Captain Lloyd is well known at Llanidloes as a dashing voung officer, and he feels confident of being successful. The Oswestry Volunteers who have volunteered for service in South Africa will be entertained by the Mayor (Mr R H Mason) at a public dinner at the Queen's hotel, on Tuesday evening at 6-30. The men will be permitted to appear in khaki. Early application for tickets is requested.

WELSHPOOL. IF you want the best cakes and pastry, call at Wat- son's, 5, Hall street, where you will find all kinds of Swiss, continental, and fancy pastries. Wedding, birthday, and christening cakes, elaborately orna- mented, to order. co [Advc. IF YOU WANT a good reliable Bicycle at the cheap- est rate go to Thomas J. Evans, ironmonger, and ask for quotations. Old machines taken as part pay- ment. Ladies'and Gent's Bicycles for hire. [AGvt. FOR a choice selection of fancy goods, toys, games, &c. (suitable for Xmas presents), also for all kinds of tobacco, cigars, cigarettes, pipes, pouches, &c., call and inspect the stock at the Bazaar, Hall street. TAdvt. A USEFUL ARTICLE.—Humphrey Jones and Son are selling first-class Mincing Machines from 6s. -9, Hall street. [Advt. THE AFRICAN WAR.—An address on Why the British must conquer" will be given by the Rev J Idrisyn Jones, in the Church House, on Thursday evening, February 15th. The chair will be taken by the Vicar of Welshpool at 7 o'clock. Collection on behalf of the Montgomeryshire Soldiers' Widows' and Orphans' Fund. [Advt. WESLEY GUILD.-The Rev J Tesseyman presided over a meeting of this Guild on Wednesday even- ing. The Vice-President read a paper on "Prayer." Part in the discussion which followed was taken by Messrs E G Highfi-'ld and E C Bishop. THE IMPERIAL YEOMA-NRY.-Amorigst these who have recently joined this force is Mr George Thom- son, son of Mr R Thomfon, Bodowen. Mr Thomson, who will be attached to the contingent now in training here, is an ex-member of the Montgomery- shire Yeomanry. FREE LIBRARY COMMITTEE.—A meeting of this committee was held on Wednesday, Col Twyford presiding. There were also present Alderman T R Morris and Messrs Maurice Jehu, F Roper, J Pryce Jones, and T Simpson Jones.—Mrs D Andrew was thanked for her gift of seven volumes.—The Lib- rarian (Mr C H Jones) reported that during the past 23 days on which the Library had been opened 995 books had been issued, of which 830 were works of fiction. PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHAPEL.—A meeting of the Primitive Methodist Young People's Christian Endeavour Society was held on Monday evening under the chairmanship of Mr J Hart. An address was given by Mr D J Jones, and the annexed pro- gramme gone through:—Solos by the Misses Clemson, Clara Davies and Lizzie Jones, and by j Masters Bert Jones and Christmas Humphreys, recitations by the Misses Louisa and Emily Jones, and by Master Fred Ashley. WAR ITEMS.—The well-known Bristol firm of brewers, Messrs R W Miller and Co., Limited, of Stokes Croft, have achieved the success of being appointed, despite a severe competition, for the sole supply of nourishing stout to the Royal Victoria Hospital, Netley. Their stout is now being supplied to the wounded and invalids returning from South Africa, and the contract which the firm has secured is for three years. To gain a Government contract of this kind is a signal success for the local firm, and is a splendid testimonial of quality and value. The local agent is Mr T J Bratton, Victoria Vaults. PROMOTION.—We are pleased to observe from the report of Wednesday's meeting of the Forden Rural District Council, that Mr E Snook, son of the Borough Surveyor, has been offered two excellent posts, one as divisional surveyor to the Salop County Council, and the other as district surveyor to the Wigmore Rural Council. Mr Snook has not yet decided which offer to accept. CONGREGATIONAL SUNDAY SCHOOL. The annual distribution of prizes to the scholars of this school took place in the Scheolroom on Sunday afternoon. The chair was taken by the Pastor (the Rev D B Evans). The Hon. Sec., Mr Ernest Watkins, read the annual report, which stated that the school was divided into 13 classes, seven of girls and six of boys. The number of scholars on the books was 175. The total attendances during the year were 5,219, which yielded an average per Sunday of 104. Daring the year the musical arrangements had been in the hands of Mr John Reese (conductor), and Miss Dolby and Miss Flo Jones (acoompanists). The Free Church Council Catechism had been adopted for the use of the scholars, and in May last a Men's Bible Class, conducted by the Pastor, was started. A Band of Hope had also been established by the teachers, which was held every Monday evening under the superintendency of Mr Macdonald. Mr John Jones (reasurer) read the financial statement which showed a balance in hand of Is. lid. Prizes to upwards of 40 scholars were then distributed by the Mayor (Mr D Jones), who delivered a brief address on the good work done by Sunday Schools. Solos were sung by Miss Gwladys Jones and Miss Gwynne, and a recitation was contributed by Miss E pritchard. On the proposition of Mr A H Jones a vote of thanks was accorded the Mayor for attending. EVENING CONCERT.—In the New Street School- room on Thursday evening a grand concert was given under the supervision of Mr John Jones, who had engaged as the leading lady Miss Maggie Evans, Llanidloes. Mr C I Gwynne was the ac- companist. The room was crowded and picturesque- ness was added to the scene by the presence of several Imperial Yeomen al raved in their khaki uniforms. The programme opened with a piano- forte duet by Masters Grotious and Lawrence James, after which Mr D Gittins and party, of Llanfair, rendered a Welsh son?. The Holy City," sung by Miss Maggie Evans, elicited a well-merited encore, and Miss Howell was also recalled for her recitation, Marie," in which she displased marked histrionic ability. Schubert s Moment Musical" was skilfully interpreted by the Misses Dora and Winifred Niblett in a violin duet, and at a later stage, the first-named young lady played'Edward German's"Henry VIII Dance." In both cases a recall was clamorously demanded and was responded to. Mr Wendell Jones in his rendering of It's not for me—It's for a friend," sustained the reputation he has built up as an amateur comedian. He was encored and gave To be continued in our next," which excited roars of laughter. Miss Evans having given a selected song, the first part of the programme ended with The bell goes ringing for Sarah," sung in character by Miss F Harris, Llanfair. Miss Harris was encored and in response gave a whimsical rendering of Wass you ever see euch a j ally time beiorer in which she was even more successful than in nor first song. Perhaps the most enjoyable item in the second part was the selection of Welsh airs beauti- fully played on the harp by Mr W Roberts, who was vociferouslv encored. Miss Maud Gwynne, attired in appropriate costume, made a distinct hit with her Red Cross Nurse," a song descriptive of the devotion and heroism in which the success ,-s to Florence Nightingale perform their trying dut ies. Two merry-going songs were contributed by Harris, who, with her winnir,, manner aud s, voice, completely captivated her auditors. O. items deserving of notice were songs by Astley, Mr R Williams, and Mr D Gittins, and a cornet solo by Mr W Morgan. A most enjoyable entertainment was concluded with God save the Queen," Miss Evans taking the solo. I COUNTY POLICE COURT.—MONDAY. COUNTY POLICE COURT.—MONDAY. Before the Mayor (Mr D Jones), Messrs E Green (Moors) and John Jones (Varchoel). MAINTENANCE.—Thomas Burgess, farm labourer Worthen, was charged by the Guardians of the Foiden Union, represented by Mr J E Tomlev (Montgomery), with failing to comply with an order, made by the Bench in January last, to con- tribute Is weekly to the support of his niotliel, Defendant did not appear.—It was explained that, as a matter of fact, the order had been running sinoe 1892, but the Guardians bad dealt lenientlv with the and iu autumn last exonerated defen- dant from the payment of £ 4 10S arrears, he pro- mising to contribute regularly in future. This, however, he had failed to do.— Mr \V T Jones, relieving officer for the. Worthen district of tne Union, said defendant was a single man aud earned 15s a week.—Mr F Hilton Francis, assistant to Lite Union collector pir John Evans), said defendant was now El in arrear under the order.—The Mayor The Bench have decided to make a com- mitment for 14 days, to be suspended so long as 5" per week is paid by defendant.—Mr Tomley I am afraid 5s is too much. The man could never pay it. The Guardians would be satisfied with 2s 6d a week.—The Mayor Very well let it be 2s 6d. SETTLEMENT ORDER. Mr Tomley asked the Bench to determine the settlement of an old woman named Mary Morris, at present an inmate of the Forden Workhouse, but who, be said, properly belonged to Knighton Union. In view of this fact the Guardians wished to remove her to the district of her birth but, before this could be done, a mag- istrate's" order was requisite. Walter Downes, Master of the Forden VVorkhouse, said Mary Morris bad been an inmate since the 22nd of July last.— Mr Tomley, being swort, said he was managing clerk to Mr C S Pryce, the clerk to the Union. During her lifetime Mary Morris had only gained one settlement, aud that was in the Parish of Lian- dewi Ystradeunan, in the Knighton Union, in the counties of Radnor, Salop, and Hereford, in which place she was born in April, 1820.—Mary Morris, being herself in Court, was, although the procedure is somewhat unusuai. sworn and her evidence as to place of birth, etc, taken.—She corroborated Mr Tomiey's statement.— Eventually the Bench ao- oeded to the application. DAMAGING A CART.—Two youths, Henry and Her- bert Thomas, Worthen, were charged by Thomas Jones, Sycamore Cottage, Leighton, [with, on tbe 30th of December, wilfully damaging a cart belong- ing to him to the amount of z65.-Both defendants admitted the offence, and weie each fined £1 and costs, or, in default, 14 days. Allowed a month to pay. SCHOOL CASES.—Thomas Edwin Bowen, Brw- nant, Uppington, was summoned at the instance of the School Attendance Committee of the Forden Onion for failing to send his two children ren- larly to school. In this case, and in the following one, Mr Tomley asked tie Bench to enforce the Education Act with stringency, as they were specimens of the very worst class of cases speci- ally selected by the Attendance Committee. Mr James Fortune, school attendance officer, said de- fendant's children, Florence Lillie, 8, and Thomas Edward, 6, had uot attended once out of a pos- sible 157 times. Defendant had been summoned and fined before for a similar offence. Defendant's wife appeared and pleaded that her children had besn suffering for a long time from whooping cough which prevented them going to school. Mr Fortune said that most of the times be had seen them the children were playing about the roads. Fined 5s. Gwendoline Morgan, Kantcribba cottage, Forden, was summoned by Mr W T Jones foa a similar offence in respect of her son Edward, aged 12. Chirbury school had been open between So, ern ber 4, 1899, and the 3rd inst 112 times bnt the boy had only made 7 attendances. Mrs Mor- gan, in excuse, pleaded illness on the part of the boy. Mr Tomley pointed out that the nearest school, Forden, was only three quarters of a mile from where defendant lived, yet she preferred sending her son to Chirbury school, a distance of over three miles, so that she might have an excuse' for not sending him regularly. Fined 3s. No LIGHT.-Picilard Howells, a waggoner in the service of Mr Price, Peutre, Llandyssil, was char- ged by P.C. George Owen, Forden, with being in charge of a timber carriage without lights on the 17th of last month.—On that date the constable was, about 7 p.m., on duty near the village of Forden, when he met defendant in charge of a timber wnggon drawn by four horses. Questioned as to the lack of lights, defendant replied that his master did not supply him with any. Lighting-up time would be about 5-18.—Sergt Price said he knew, from experience, that defendant's master did supply his hauliers witu lights.—Defendant, who made no appearance in court, was fined Is and costs. BOBOUGH POLICE COURT.—TUESDAY. Before the Mayor (Mr D Jones,) Colonel Twvford, Messrs D P Owen, J Rees, Maurice Jehu, and W. Rogers. AN OLD OFFENDER.—John Jones, Forrest Farm, Wallop, Shropshire, was charged for the fourth time, with being drank whilst in charge of a horse and trap.—P.O. Watkin proved the case.- Defend- ant's son appeared in court, and handed to the bench a medical certificate to the effect that his father was down with the Influenza and, consequent- ly unable to attend. My father," continued the young man, told me to tell the magistrates that he would never again get drunk in Welshpool, not if he came here a 100 times a week." George Davies, Level Crossing, Buttington, said that on r Mouday, January 15th, defendant drove past his house at a furious pace. Be seemed to him to be very tipsy.—Evidence to the same effeot having been given by Thomas Parry and Evan Hughes, Buttington, the Bench proceeded to debate what penalty they should impose.—Mr D P Owen would nor agree to a fine of 40s unless the costs were added to that amount. He was not going to give away his judicial experience of 27 years to please anyone.—Ultimately the Magis- trates agreed to fine defendant £ 2 and 18s costs. —The Mayor warned defendant's son that, if his father came before them again on a similar charge, they would be compelled to enforce the extreme penalty—two months imprisonment.

BERRIEW. ACCIDFNT.-As Dr. Moretou was driving from Berriew to Garthmyl Cll Tuesday morning, the horse slipped and fell, and threw him and his groom out of the trap. The Doctor was severely hurt about the chest, but the groom was unhurt. Dr Mo reton is now progressing favourably under the care of Dr Kaywood, Newtown.

BISHOP'S CASTLE. COGNTY PETTY SESSIONS, Friday week.—Before Messrs H G Botfield, F W Plowden, and A H S\kes.— Wm Groves, Norbury, charged with keep- ins: a dog without a liceuce was fined 713 6d and costs. P.C. Roberts proved the case.—John Jame- son, Wentnor, postman, was charged with allowing his dog to be at large without a muzzle or collar was fined 2s 6d and costs, P.C. Roberts proved the case.—George Edwards, The Bridges, innkeeper, charged with selling spirits to a boy under 16 years was dismissed, the magistrates cautioning him to be more careful in the conduct, of his business.— David Jarman, Vollerton, farmer, was charged by Mr Barns, supervisor, with using a trap without a licence and fined 15s and costs.—Herbert Lewis and Pryce Lewis, Clun, were charged with ob- structing the highway at Newcastle and fined 5! and costs each.—Thomas Marsh, Clunton, hawker, was charged by Hd Ball, gamekeeper, with game trespass, and fined 6d and costs.

CHIRBURY. CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINMENT.—The school child- ren's annual concert took place on Thursday last in the schoolroom. There was a good attendance of parents and others, aud the children acquitted themselves most creditably. Thanks to the pains taken by the school staff, Mr and Mrs Shaw aad Miss Watkin, some of the items were exceedingly well rendered. The proceeds will be spent in prizes for the children. The performance was repeated on Friday with equal success. The programme was as follows:—Pianoforte solo, "The Retreat," C White; song, Soldiers of the Queen," girls and boys recitation, When we are Men," six infant boys sketch, The Lost Dolly," A Lewis, etc; recitation, "Keep your bat straight," C White; drill, "Garland," 18 girls; song and drill, "0 come and see us," infants (bovs); recitation, No joke to beababy."sixinfncts(girl<); sketch, The Naughty Bov," C White and E Bridgwater; song, The Rainbow," girls; song, Darkies' Revels," niggers; comic sketch, "Mrs Smith's Troubles" M Lewis and E Ellis: song, "White Sails," girls; tableau, Nursery Rhymes, Lily Green, etc.; song and drill, "Chinese Umbrella," 12 girls; recitation, "A good Girl," Anna Ellis; song, "Dolly's Bed- time," infants (girls); recitation, The May Queen," Lily Beddoes; song, recitations, dialogues, etc., Pierrots; song, "The Absent-minded Beggar" boys and girls song, Good-night," Susie Ellis; God Save the Queen"

MONTGOMERY CHCHCH CHOIR.-The adult members of the church choir and the teachers of the Sunday School were entertained at the Rectorx by the Rev E W and Mrs Brown on Wednesday evening. Messrs Salter's band provided music for dancing, and the rector's guests enjoyed a very pleasant evening. SCHOOL ENTERTAINMENT.—The annual entertain- ment was given by the children of the National Schools on Thursday evening. There was, as usual a crowded audience, and the Rector presided in the absence of Mr Fairies-Humphreys, who was pre- vented from attending by a cold. The programme was carried out from beginning to end in a spirited I manner. Too much credit cannot be awardea to Mr and Mrs Tipping of the mixed school, and Miss Evans of the infant school, and their assistants for the remarkable talent displayed by their pupils. The proceeds of the entertainment go towards the I cost of the piano which has been provided for the school. The programme was repeated on Friday evening. ODDFELLOWSHIP.—The annual meeting of the- Ark of Friendship Lodge of Oddfellows was held itt, th" Temperance Rooms on Monday evening, when Air ld Proctor, N.G., presided. The auditors, Messrs L Griffiths, W J Joiies and D Proctor, pre- sented a very satisfactory report upon the accounts for the past vear. Notwithstanding heavy pay- ments on account of sickness and mortality amongst the members the finances of the Lodge showed a sub?tantial increase, the total funds at the end of the year being £ 6,299. The membership alsCo exhibited a satisfactory increase, the total number of members being now 335 adults and 66 juveniles, total 4Gl.-The Secretary (Mr J E Tomley), in detailing pome of the features of the society's work, remarked that the lodge had paid out in the first five weeks of the present year no less than zP,85 in sick pay and funeral benefits.

NEWTOWN. CHli/IR SUPPER.—The juvenile members of the Newtown Church Choir were entertained to supper last (Friday) evening at the Rectory by the kindness of the Rev J S and Mrs Lewis. BAPTIST SCHOOLROOM.—A very pleasant evening was spent at the above schoolroom on Thursday tn evening, under the chairmanship of Mr W7illiam Cooke, the proceeds being in aid of the Band of Hope fund. An excellent programme was ably sustained. Miss Woolley being ttie accompanist. LITERARY AND DERATING SOCIETY.—On Monday evening a very succeesful social gathering was held at the Congregational Schoolroom, under the presi- dency of Rev J Hugh Edwards. The accompanists were Mrs Kershaw and Miss Lily Trow, and aome refreshments were provided at the interval. The following was the programme which was very ably prr formed :—pianoforte duet, Fairy Queen," Misses Edith Woolley and DesponiM Jones; song, I fear no foe," Mr Dan Evans; duet," Gathering flowers," Misses Williams; violin iJOlo, Bercense," Mr A I Guest; recitation, "The Charge of the Light Brigade," Miss Lily Edwards; pianoforte solo, selected, Miss Giles recitation, selected, Edwin Pickup; song, "Home, dearie, home," Mrs Rutter; recitation, selected, Mr F P Keay; song, Barney o' Shea," Miss Lizzie Williams, (encored) concertina solo, March," Mr Lewis Humphreys. PARISH SOIREE.-A. very successful gathering was held in the Public Hall on Thursday evening, the occasion being one of the very popular soirees arranged by the Rev George Roberts, who deserves every praise for the very successful issue of the series. Dancing wasindalged in from 8 to 12, and the enjoyment of others present was secured by the variety programme which had been arranged. The Cedewain Quadrille Band provided the music, and after Mr Jim Owen gave a splendid oomic recita- tion, some tableaux were shown and these all through the evening were a great attraction and reflected credit on the Rev G Roberts for the excel- lent arrangements of the groups. The last two tableaux commanded the admiration of all present, the former representing the Times." The cause of the war, Kruger (as the able showman, Mr Harry Barratt, aptly put it) occupied a prominent plaoe in this group, but was guarded by two stalwart men in kharki. The British sailor and soldier were also in evidence in the picture, and" J ustioe," which the showman assured the audience would be meted out at the conclusion of the war, took centre position. The last picture was a patriotic group, representing Britannia with her gallant defenders, England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, and an army of soldiers and sailors who were ready to die for Queen and country, among them being a good sprinkling of men in kbarki, John Bull being one of the leading figures in the group. Trooper Fowler gave a good rendering of Queen of the Earth," and Miss Edith Smith played a pianoforte solo. The feature of the even- ing was, however, a splendid recitation by Trooper Loraine (the renowned actor), the piece with which he thrilled the audience being The Three Mus- keteers." He was loudly recailed, and responded with The Absent-Minded Beggar." The inevit- able collection was spontaneously made, coins being thrown on the stage while the recitation was in progress, and £ 3 10s 6d was oollected. Soon after 12 o'clock the company dispersed, all having thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Mr J G Gruar. it should be mentioned, made an excellent attendant to the showman, and the Rev Geo Roberts accom- panied the soloist on the piano. POLICE COURT.-YIESTtltDAY. Before Messrs R E Jones (chairman), R Llovd. and Richard Morgan. The Chief Constable tMrJ Holland) was also present. SCHOOL CASES. James Evans, Aberbechan Cottage, Llanllwchaiarn, made no appearance in answer to an adjourned summons for failing to BO-id his two children to school. The attendance still being unsatisfactory a further adjournment for twu months was ordered. ALLEGED WIPE ASSAULT.—Joseph Davies, Lady- well Street, was charged with assaulting hia vife, Mary Ann Davies, on the 27th January. Defendant was brought before the magistrates on the 30"h nit, when evidence sufficient to justify a remand was given by Dr F Wilson and P.C. Howells.— Dr Wilson ag&in appeared and said that defendant's wife was progressing favourably but would be UL. able to leave the Infirmary for many weeks.- Accordingly the Bench determined to make a further remand nntil the next Sessions. Bail was allowed in two sureties of zP,5 each or one surety o: ZEID. THE CASE OF EDWARD EVANS SEQUEL TO THE CAERSWS SCEKE. Edward Evans, cheesemonger, Market-street, who by his independent manner raised the ire of Mr Richard Bennett at the last meeting of the Caersws Board of Guardians, was summoned by Mr R H Lloyd, relieving officer. to show cause why he should not contribute 4s weekly to the support of his septuagenarian father, Thomas Evans. Mr Richard "Williams represented the Union. In his opening statement he said that defendant's father lived with his wife, who kept a small shop in Crown-street. The old man became chargeable to the common fund on the 3rd of January last. The present proceedings were occasioned by defendant's refusal at the last meeting of the Guardians to comply with the order.—Mr Robert Lloyd, examined by Mr Williams, said Thomas Evans was over 70 and suffered from chronic rheumatism and general debility, which prevented him doing anything to support him- self. Defendant had a stall in the market and did a flourishing business.—Defendant (ironically) A roariug trade, please.—Continuing, Mr Llovd said defendant's wife and elder son attended seve- ral other markets in the district. Defendant was reputed to be the owner of considerable property in Market street. Two shops next to and two cot- tages in the rear of the Pheasant Inn belonged to him. One cottage he lived in himself, and for the other he received zE14 rent. The two shops were rented at £35 each per annum.—Defendant, being sworn, denied that he received zC14 for the one cot- tage. His business was one which po, him to con- siderable expense in railway carriage, etc.—about z61 3s a week it would amount to, he calculated. Mr Bennett and the other gentlemen were very fond of talking about the property he owned, but he could assure them that it really did not belong to him. He was in debt on it to the amount of £ 1,700, some uf which had been advanced to him at 3 per cent. and some at 3J. He had a wife and seven children dependent upon him. One child earned 4s a week as an apprentice, and another was paid £ 8 a year as a pupil teacher. The latter, however, had to have lessons on the "pianner" and these cost him £ 4 8s.—The Clerk (facetiously): Oh Why don't you buy one? It would be cheaper.—Defendant: All right, you lend me the money. Evans here pur. in a medical certificate to the effect that he was incapacitated by ill-health from doing much w(,rk.-lIir Willilluis protested. It did not want a strong man to sell cheese.—Defendant further stated that when he was seven years old his father and stepmother turned him adrift and his grandmother keDt him. At the present time his stepmother took in lodgers, and in addition did a capital trade selling pop and roast pork. He would not be surprised if they did a better business than he did.—The Chairman Do vou say that this shop is carried on bv your father?—Defendant: I believe he has turned it over to my stepmother.—By Mr Williams H:s takings would be from £ 18 to C21 a week. He only however just managed to make his business pay. The property on the Brickfield did not belong to him now but to the Druids Club. He bad not come there to tell stories like they did at the Board. The lady in the Workhouse was his mother's sister.—The B^nch retired to consider their decision, and, on returding after some time, the Chairman announced that they were of opinion, that defendant wasciearly in a position to pay 4s a week. He would also have to rafund the money the Board had expended up to the present in relieving his father. The case would be re-opened if defendant could prove that there was some other person also liable to contribute.— Defendant (eagerly): I have a brother.—The Chairman We have heard nothing about him. MR. PARK AND HIS COMPOSITORS. — Moriey E Park, printer and stationer. 2, Broad street, sum- moned Robert Lonsdaie, 14, Tuscan street, Seaforth, Lancashire, and John Fieldhouse, 6, Fountain ter- race, Wellington, for breach of contract.—Mr Mar- tin W v.-snarn, who 'd,0-1 f- dant house, said this was a surnrn ;« •< o-n out by Mr Park under the Labour Laws. Hiscii^n •. who was a" eres^i.t unwell, worked at Hlackbm-i could I! ¡..dT-)rd the expense o a lono- t.). .vay j airnev. He asked the Bench to adjourn t:j» case uat-ii the next sessions when he wouid be in a position to undertake the caae.—The Chairman D,) 1 un- derstand yon ask for an adjournment because vonr Client Cannot afford the expense of coinli-i; New- town ?-lr Woosnam S.), sir; because has been ill and unable to earn any moDev.— Mr Park said Fieldhouse was a married man of 40 years of age. He would only agree to an adjournment on Mr Woosnam producing medical testimony as to the defendant's unfitness for work. Woosnam I hare not got a medical certificate. 1 onlv received my instructions this morning. ] do not "think the case should be proceeded with until mv client is here to speak for hiriisellf.- Mr Park said he opposed an adjournment on the- grouna that Fieid- kouse. whoai tie did not beliefs bad b"en ill, had had plenty of time to appear. He was sorry tu have had to bring the case on, but he had been compelled to because he believed there bad been a conspiracy between the two defendants.—Mr Woosnam Oh really, you know. We are not conspirators (laugh. ter).- The Chairman We will take the case against Lonsdale, first.—Complainant said Lons- dale had been employed by him as foreman printer. Not long after defendant had been in the office he refused to work overtime, did not do his duty fai-lv in the day, and encouraged the others not to do theirs. At last he put Fieldnmlse on as foreman, and Lonsdale took his place as compositor. He threw the blame of the present proceedings upon Lonsdale entirely. On Moadav, January 22nd, defendant failed to turn up to work, and be (com- plainr.nt) at once took out a summons. On Febru- ary 6th, he received the following letter from defendant L I apologise for leaving your employ- ment so abruptly. Being- sit]! in poor health and having only casual employment I can only pay you 4s per month compensation, until I have wiped out the 48s you claim." When he engaged the defendant it was subject to a fort- night's notice on either side or two weeks' wages which wouid come to 48s.-After some further evidence, the Bench made an Older for .62 8s which would include costs. Half of the arnonnt to be paid at once and the remainder in a month's time.—Mr Woosnam's application for adjourment was then further gone into, and, after much argument was acceded to. The final hearing will be held next Friday. MARRIED MISERY.— Sarah Jane Erans, Brook Cottage, Bahaillor., Sarn, Kerry, summoned her husband, Henry Evans, for assaulting her on the 5th inst.—Defendant did not appear.—Complainant said on the evening of the above dare her husband came home and was very abusive to her. She turned round to prepare his supper when he hit her on the head with something hard until she reeled. He then ran to kick her but site was too quick for him and got outside the doer. Defendant shut the door upon her, remarking that he would put a knife into her heart if she came in again that night." She, with her children, was thus compelled to put up at a neighbour's house until morning. She lived in bodily fear of the defendant and would be glad if the Magistrates would grant her a Eeparation order.—Fined XI, or, in default, 14 days' im- prisonment.

MACHYNLLETH. THE agents for the sale of the COU-ITT Timxs are Messrs T Parsons Sons. Buroombe House, and Messrs W H Smith & Son, Railway Bookstall. THE LORD BISHOP.—The Lord Bishop of Baagor is expected to take up his residence at Panteidol Hall, his country seat, next week. PLAS HARRIERS. The harriers met at Pant- perthog on Tuesday. Considering the bad weather the hunt was a good one. THE LioN HOTEL- — Mr Edward Jones has left the Lion Hotel for Chirk. The new proprietors, Mr and MI s Knight, have taken possession. To-DAY' TEAM.-In their match wit b tbe B.W. W., Newtown, the following playprs will represent Maebynllejh :-Goal, W Williams; backs, 0 Morris and W EVAI.S; half-backs, Lloyd Roberts. R Hum- phreys, and Edwards; forwerds, J Edwards, E Owen, R Humphreys, T Williams, and J 0 H It. MEDICAL.—In the pass list of the London Uni- versity we are glad to find, he name of Miss Delia Davies, daughter of Mr Hugh Davies, chemist, Machynlleth, and late student at the U.C.W., Aber- ystwyth, A# having PASSED the Preliminary Science Examination (London M B.). The subjects were: Physics, biology, and chemistry. THE CHURCH SUNDAY SCHOOL. The annual election (by ballot) of the Church Sunday School Committee did not take place this year. The majority of the school were in favour of leaving the committee for 1899 in power again this year. Mrs Edwards (Oakville), Miss Williams (Skinners' Arms), and Mr J Edwards (Evans and Gillart) were added to this oommittee because they had attended regularly last year. The three new members of the committee are also faithful teachers. PLAS Fox HOUNDS.—Met at Gellrlydan on Monday when there were present amongst others Major Bonsall, Dr A G Davies, Mr R Gillart, Mr Jones, (stonemason), and a large field on foot. All the covers were drawn blank until Tyndhir was reached when there was a find, and the chase led over to Cynffyrch, Caedn, Hafodgareg, from here on to Troed-y-rhiw Farm, and away in the direction ef Gwarthgwynion. The fox was going in grand style right up the Llyfnant coming back at a rattliul- pace to Tyndhir. At Caedu the fox went to ground, but bolted away from the terrier, and after a rnn :of 40 minutes was killed in the open. The leading hounds during the day were Gipsy Comrade," and Solitude." ENTERTAINMENT.— On Wednescav evening Mr Hugh Davies presided over an entertainment at the Maengwyn Schoolroom under the anspice6 of the North WTales Women's Temperance Union. Magic lantern views were displayed by Miss Edwards and Miss PUgil illustrating Tennyson's "EnocéJ Arden and the story, The Shadow of a Sin." The views were explained by Miss Rees and Miss Meredith. Songs were given by Miss Mary Lumley and Miss Frances Lewis.

LLANFYLLIN. INTERMEDIATE EDUCATION.—A meeting of the local Governors was held in the Town Hali yester- day, when the following were present:—Mr J Marshall Dugdale (chairman), the Rev T Jones (vice-chairman), Messrs E Watkin:, Wm Jones, and J P Williams; with Mr T H W Watkins (from the Clerk's Office).-A letter wan read from Lord Rendel thauking the Governors for expressing a wish that he should open d,, new schools. It would give him sincere pleasure to visit Llaufvllin and to see his friends there under such happy auspices, but he should eeriainl-v not be able to oome at the time suggested. He did not think he could visit Montgomeryshire until THE summer, and so he must forego the honour and pleasure which the Governors contemplated.—The matter was left in the hands of the chairman aod the clerk.—ON the motion of the Rev T Jones seconded bv Mr iuiam Jones, it was agreed that £ 5 {be DEVULED^ towards increasing the assistant master's salarv.-lt was decided to offer the temporary school building for sale by auction, an:: a committee was appointed to make arrangements, and to fix the rr serve price.

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