The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

CONTENTS OF INNER PAGES. I PAGE 2. Aberystwyth Town Council; Oswestry Incorpora- tion Llanfyllin and Minsterley news; Correspond- ence An Afctomatic Rifle; The Shah's Visit. PAGE 3. The War Parliamentary The New School at Maesmawrj Machynlleth Petty Sessions, Board of Guardians acd Urban District Council; Corris, Newtown Bishop's Castle, Llanllugan, and Aber- dovey news. PAGE b. Football Notes, Matches, &c. Mr Justice Channell and Welsh Juries Hunting Appoint- ments Forden Board of Guardians aud Rural District Council; The Affairs of a Llanidloes Draper; Montsromerj shire Infirmary Ball; A Fatal Overdose of Laudanum; The Budget; The Brightest Side of the War. PAGE 7. A Story: The Crowning of Esther," by Morice n A A Visit to the Birmingham Waterworks; Gerard; A\isit tot Markers >- i ^yrexfiam Horse Sales Death of Isaac Gorden; Welshpool Telegmhic Arrangements.

THE SETTLEMENT IN SOUTH The cry for The cry for this country, ai d of the t attempts to baulk tQ whic]l they phal entry into consider the final have a perfect ngn • » f {s however, settlement of South # much more proper now week three week ago. In the enc o achiered outstanding successes li«■ Lady. by British arms. Knn y QEOyjE had smith had been relieved, anu- surrendered with his force 5 mio-lit be cult to predict what OPP0*1 ^0"EKTS'S immediately oftered to u nlucli advance into the Free State, 01 f]ie of Natal was still held by tae t waS"all. prospects seemed favourable, iniished. Now, something has been accom]■ Lord ROBERTS has scored anothei and a victory of the sort that °e honour to a General, for lt. ]V'\S f T,tPin without casualty to his men. At, Os o > by consummate Generalship, he out-tian I the Boer army, who had placed themselves on a position of great strength. They con- fidently awaited an attack on their front, but Lord ROBERTS, with the large force of cavalry which he now has at his command out-flanked them and forced them to retreat or have their communications cut. They were completely surprised by tactics that the weakness our force has hitherto made impossible, and fled. So far as can be gathered, any serious defence of Bloemfon- tein, the Free State capital, is out of the question. There will probably be hard fighting before Pretoria is reached, and a fierce final struggle before it is captured but the British force is overwhelming, and the Boers are not likely to fight a losing battle, as they have fought when the odds were in their favour. We do not buoy our- selves up with the belief that the war is over, but we are within sight of the end of the struggle, and it is not too soon to con- sider what is to come after. To clear the way, it must be pointed out that this is not a struggle between the United Kingdom and the united Republics. There are narrow-minded Little Englanders whose vision is bounded by the horizon or at most by the three-mile limit round the shores of these islands. They forget that we have partners in this business. There are the colonies who have helped us gallantly in the struggle andwho liavearighttobeconsulted. The essential condition of the existence of the British Empire is that the rights of all the nationalities and communities should be respected, and not only their rights in regard to the management of their own affairs. The time is at hand when their voice must be heard in the policy of the Empire. We cannot expect to receive their help when we are in difficulties and then, when by their help the difficulties have been over- come, to wave them aside and conclude peace with the enemy they have helped to subdue without regard to their wishes. Little Englanders are in a hopeless minority in this country and they have no following at all in the Colonies. They are behind the times unless they realise that they have to face a keen and speedy opposition to their insular ideas from Great Britian across the seas. If they would succeed they must send missionaries to Canada and Australia and the Cape, and try to inculcate the faith that England has no duty to discharge to her sons on the confines of the Empire, that she may great- mindedly forgive the invasion of her -Colonies and resent only the invasion of these islands. Do these people who ory Stop the war not realise that Natal is as much British territory as Kent ? If Kent had been invaded by, say the Turks, and the invaders had been driven out, would they rest satisfied till we had reached Constantinople and dictated terms of peace in the enemy's capital ? There can be no doubt what the opinion of orr Colonies is. Still less can there be any doubt what the necessities of our countrymen in Natal and Cape Colony are. To make peace now, before the Boers are beaten; would to the Boers be a sign of weakness, and to loyalists in Natal and Cape Colony a hopeless discouragement. The Boers have treated the British in the Transvaal tyrannically and insolently, and the Dutch in the Cape have been crowing over the loyalists. Unless this struggle is fought to a finish the antipathy between the two races will be stronger than b ever. The only basis of peace at the pre- sent moment that would be acceptable to the Transvaal and the Free State, would be the acknowledgement of the independence of the Republics. And what would that mean P It would mean that the Republics would straightway begin to re-arm, prepar- ing for another struggle ten or twenty years hence. Some of us should not be alive to take part in it; there would be peace in our day. But we should leave a terrible heri- tage for our successors, and meanwhile our colonies would drop off from an Empire too weak in will to defend them, although strong in resources. What the future of South Africa may be expected to be we must leave for future consideration, but this one principle stands out clear as noon- day, that it is not safe to leave within the boundaries of the Empire two States with great resources and with the full ambition to-establish a Dutch dominion in South Africa. ♦-——

NOTES BY THE WAY. Notwithstanding the very genei,ou3 gift of £ 300 received by the Governors of the Aberystwyth County School from Lord Rendel they are still badly in need of funds, and the public have not by any means made that prompt response which was anticipated. Our report of the meeting of the Governors held on Friday evening will fairly indi- cate to the public the present strained condition of the finances. The Governors have decided to ask Mayor to make an appeal on behalf of the schools. We do not believe, however, that this is going to do much good. It would be interesting if the Governors would publish side by side the list of promises made known in the columns of the local Press some six months ago, and a list of those who have paid. # # The Local Government Board have approved of the plans for the workmen's houses which the Aberystwyth Corporation are about to erect. The Department has also given the necessary permis. sion to borrow a sum of over £3,000 to carry oat the work. It is the intention of the Council to build eighteen houses, and if these prove a success they will, in all likelihood, carry the schemeSout on a more extensive scale, and by this means bring the people from the hovels and dens in which some of them are now housed. The extension of the main sewer along the har- bour bottom on to the confluence of the Rheidol and YsLwyth rivers is to form the subject of a Local Government Board inquiry at the Town Hall on the 14th iust. The extension of the sewer will be the means of cleansing the foreshore iusiue the gap, which at present is nothing more or less than a receptacle for the floating sewage. The present scheme for removing so dangerous a nuisance is to be highly commended. At length we have had from the Mayor of Aber- ystwyth (Councillor C M Williams) an explanation of his reason for not opening a war fund. The reasons given are not over-convincing, and to say the least His Worship shows an utter want of confidence in the liberality of the people of the town. It is, of course, too late in the day to suggest that it was the duty of the ex-Mayor (Councillor D C Roberts) before he left office to open a fund. Possibly Councillor Roberts had his reasons for not doing so but since he left the Mayoral chair his responsibilities in this direction have caused. There is no doubt of this that the people of the town were ready, and are ready to- day to subscribe towards a fund, aud the Mayor's statement that he was afraid the subscriptions would be so small as to cast lidicule upon the phsnrd He states that £ 300 has been fcnWD collected in the town and district. This, after all, 00 eC eG • „ very small sum indeed for a town like Aberyst- 1 fh Aberystwyth has got off very lightly in The p^ent'crisis; it has had no Volunteers to equip, but few Reservists to send to the front, and knows really nothing of the demands made upon other towns in Wales, not so well off as Aberystwyth happens to be. The peop'e of Wales are asked to subscribe £10,000 towards a Welsh Hospital. The appeal is backed by men and women not distinguished by creed or party. Here then is Aberystwyth's opportunity to come to the point. Machynlleth School Board held a special meeting on Thursday when the principal business was that of selecting a site for the new school. The business was taken in private, but we should not be guilty of a very gross breach of privilege if we said that negotiations up to the present have been most encouraging, and the Board are hopeful of securing a site which will meet with general approval. The forthcoming election of Urban Councillors at Machynlleth is likely to prove of more than usual interest. In the first place we have an elec- tion to fill the vacancy in the North Ward which became vacant upon the death of Captain Joseph Evans. This seat naturally falls to the Conserva- tive party, of which body the late Capt Evans was a staunch supporter, and it is expected that the Liberals will not force a fight. If this is done there is al ways the prospect of reciproc:1tion by the Con- servatives in the annual fight, and we should find matters passing off smoothly and without any friction. It is, however, the unexpected which always happens. The Liberals are not likely to let this seat go uncontested, for owing to very decided ruptures in their own party some of those now coming out for the wards will use all their influnce to avoid a contest, but on the other hand there are two or three prominent Liberals who are determined, come what may, to force a fight. Their names are before the ratepayers, and pressure is being brought to bear to prevent them coming out. Under these conditions interest is chiefly centred upon the Liberal candidates and their Liberal opponents. It is understood that there will be no contest at the forthcoming Newtown Urban District Council election. The basis of the agreement is that two Liberals and one Conservative will be returned for the three seats. Although the Montgomeryshire Infirmary Ball was abandoned, it is satisfactory to find that the sum of £83 17s 8d has been handed over to the Infirmary. We may hopefully look forward to those who are now fighting in South Africa enjoy- ing themselves and contributing to the enjoyment at next year's ball. Judging from Mr W Jones' remarks at Llanfyllin Board of Guardians on Thursday, one is led to believe that either the Board is a very generous body to applicants for relief, or the granting of relief is not given that supervision which it needs. When a certain application was made, Mr W Jones asked if that was one of the cases from other Unions, which came there simply in order to obtain relief?" The insinuation that poorjpersons had come to settle in that Union solely to get relief was not challenged, but it is well to point out that if persons get relief from the Llanfyllin Union, the Union is repaid by the Union in which such per- sons have gained & settlement. Mr Jones unfavour- ably alluded to another case. The administration •of out-relief is a matter which requires the strictest -supervision, because undeserving persons are apt to obtain parochial assistance, while the really needy cases are not met with sufficient liberality. At Llanfyllin Rural Council on Thursday, a dis- graceful and dangerous state of things existing at Llansantffcaid was divulged. The matter wa9 brought forward by the Inspector and Mr Kemps Lex-. It appears that a place called Lletty Lane has been made a receptacle for filthy rubbish of all kinds, owing to the cottages in the lower end having no accommodation. Notices of warning have been pat up, but, presumably for want of a convenient place to put the rubbish, the notices have been dis- regarded, and the offenders have not been detected. By way of remedial measures, the Council intends purchasing a cart and attending to the scavenging regularly. Prompt action is needed in this matter or the place will become a veritable hot-bed of disease in warm weather, and, as the Inspector puts it, the consequences will be serious." Much delight be felt in Ireland and hardly less pleasure in this country at the announcement that her Majesty the Queen has decided to visit Ireland*next month. The Irish have long thought, themselves neglected by the Royal family and there may have been some justification for so thinking although there are circumstances which will readily occur to every one which to some extent accounts for it. The resolve now made by the Queen in her old age will do much to remove the feeling of soreness which exists. Nothing is more remarkabla in this crisis—if it may be so called—in the century's affairs than the wonderful manner in which the Queen has shown resolution and energy which are ordinarily looked for in the buoyant spirits of youth. She is veritably a mother of her people. Her present to her soldiers was a most kindly, a most motherly, thought. The keen interest she has taken in the progress of her forces is matched by her womanly tenderness towards those who have been bereaved and afflicted by the war. She must be credited now with a sincere desire, to which an opportunity of expression has not hitherto offered itself, to heal the unhappy divisions that exist in Ireland and between the English and Irish races. The Queen is above party and above nationality and she has shown on innumerable occasions, and now specially, that one race of her people is as dear to her as another. Her resolution to visit Ireland in her old age and in spite of natural iufirmity will have the best results. Another Royal command has been issued, which removes another grievance in a most gracious and tactful manner. The Queen has noted—for little escapes her observant eye where her people are concerned—the gallantry of the Irish regiments in South Africa. As a recognition of their bravery she orders that the soldiers of the Irish regiments shall henceforth wear a sprig of shamrock in their head-dress on St Patrick's Day to celebrate the bravery of her Irish troops. This is a graceful recognition, and it also removes the occasion for many complaints in Parliament and elsewhere about Irish soldiers being forbidden to wear the national emblem, as they would be forbidden to wear any other badge that was not part of thair uniform. Irish soldiers are intensely loyal, and we do not believe that the Irish people are in the mass inclined otherwise. They are too ready to follow those whom we cannot but call unnatural, and selfish, and unsafe leaders, but when the need arises they will follow the Queen. Wo have to compliin of the way in which a small number of newspapers set themselves to malign the British Government, the British nation, and British soldiers, and to justify the Boer Government, and the Boer people and combatants. They ignore the plain facts of the negotiations that ended in the Boer ultimatum, and would lead their readers to believe that it was we who made war on the Republics, not the Republics on us. They over- look the fact that only now we have driven the Boers out of British territory, where they have been devastating British homesteads and bombard- ing British towns. The sacrifice of life, the suffering, the anguish of bereavement in countless homes here and in South Africa has all resulted from operations in British territory, from which we have at last driven the invader. Now, when the war is being brought to their own homes, the Boer organs in tbis country and on toe Continent- many of them, be it understood, paid by the Trans- vaal GovernlIlent through tbat miscbief-maker, Dr Leyds-begin to talk of peace. And the main con- dition of peace is that we should acknowledge the independence of the Republics. The conditions of peace are going to be settled when Lord Roberts is master of Pretoria. Let that be understood, and let there be no more whining about the price we have paid for the war, whether in blood or treasure. We had to fight against our will, but we are not going to make peace to please those who provoked the war. # But as to the mischief done by those newspapers and speakers, who can see no fault in the Boers, who will not see the white flag hoisted in order that; our countrymen may be enticed into a position where they may be shot down, who will not look when a Boer gun fires into the British hospital or a women's camp, who turn away their heads when Mauser bullets from Boer rifles fall around a British ambulance carrying the Red Cross badge, and when British surgeons cannot approach the wounded to save British lives because they are special marks for Boer marksmen—what of these, anti-British newspapers on British soil ? They abuse Englishmen at the Cape—The Englishman when he goes abroad, they say, becomes an abusive, tyrannical, blood-thirsty ruffian-but they white- wash Cronje, who treacherously kept back from the garrison of Potchefstroom the information that an armistice had been concluded. What shall we say of the spirit that is credulous as to everything that is favourable to our enemies and likewise to every- thing that is discreditable to our countrymen ? It may be said treat these opinions with contempt, but this is the chief harm they do. The opines are quoted outside these islands. They disgust our colonists, make our countrymen abroad ashamed, and inspire the enemies of England. The opinions that are held by the masses on the Continent and in America are they not formed first cf all in this country p They may vex people in this country, but the effect they have abroad is of a graver character. The War Budget of Sir Michael Hicks-Beach is a common sense piece of work which has com- mended itself to the vast majority of people of all parties and classes. He very cleverly and not un- fairly put it to the country to pay up. We who sit at home at ease can only pay in money our gallant countrymen in South Africa are paying in blood. The Chancellor of the Exchequer touched the right chord when he appealed to the patriotism of the people and it is doubtless partly for this reason that the additional taxation has aroused very little grumbling. But another reason is that there is an evident desire to deal fairly with people all round. An income tax of one shilling in the pound we have not seen before since the Crimean war and on small incomes it is a heavy impost. But it has always been recognised as a war tax and the special objections to the income tax are not concerned with its amount but with its inquisito rial character. The increase of one shilling on the barrel of beer is too little for temperance people and indeed it is not high when compared with the duty on spirits—six- pence per gallon, whereat Ireland and Scotland are disposed to complain. Smokers have had little advantage from the last redaction in the duty on tobacco, and they are not likely to be much the worse of the 4d in the lb. which is now imposed. If it were not for the 2d in the lb of tea there are many people who would wholly escape paying any- thing towards the cost of the war. This considera- tion certainly is an argument against what some people seem to think the absolute perfection of fiscal arrangements—the giving of a free break- fast-table. Those who drink tea surely desire to bear their share of the burden as well as those who drink beer and whisky and smoke tobacco and cigars. If there had been no duty at all on tea the bringing of machinery into existence to impose it would have been a somewhat troublesome ,matter. To increase a tax is always a much more easy matter than to impose a fresh one, and arouses less opposition. The Budget is simple and straight- forward, not containing anything novel or experi- mental, but dealing as fairly as could be expected with all classes who shoulcj contribute to the cost of the war. 'The provisional Organising Committee of the Welsh Hospital for South Africa are appealing for £10,000 to provide 100 beds, and they hope that the patriotism and general sympathy of Welshmen will enable them to carry out this object, which has already been done by the English, Irish, and Scotch peoples. As well as money, furniture, bed- ding, &c., tasked for. In the large towns the movement has been enthusiastically taken up, but as the time by which the hospital has to be com- pleted is so short—about three weeks—it is possible that local committees will not be formed in every small town, but those wishing to assist may forward their subscriptions to the organising secretary, Mr A W Hughes, 7 Chester Terrace, Regents Park; or to the chairman, Sir John Williams, Bart., 63, Brook Street, London, W.

ABERYSTWYTH. LIBRARY.—During the week ending Wednesday, evening the number of books taken out of the library reached 571. BACHELOR'S BALL.—Last evening a bachelor's ball was held at the Lion H,,tel. There were about sixty present and dancing was kept up until an early hour this morning. POLICE COURT.—At the Police Court yesterday morning before Messrs R J Jones and Edward Evans, a boatman named Walter Jones was cearged with drunken and disorderly conduct. He was fined 5s and costs, and severely reprimanded, TO-DAY'S TEAM.—In their match with Llan- dudno to-day the follow'ng team will represent the town Goal, W LI Davies; backs, C Parry and G Evans half-backs, W Jones, J H Edwards, and D M Evans; forwards, Sparrow, Whelau, Marshall, Barson, and James. LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD INQUIRY.—Col H F Turner, K.C.B.R.E., the Inspector appointed to hold an Inquiry in the matter of the application for leae. to borrow £ 2,900 for the extension of the Main Outfall Sewer, £ 550 for the purpose of a Public Sanitary Convenience and £ 178 for the construction of a Storm Water Culvert will hold the Inquiry at the Town Hall, on Wednesday next, at CONFIRMATION SERVICE.—On Tuesday morning, the Bishop Suffragan of Swansea held confirmation services at Holy Trinity Church, assisted by his chaplains, the Rev Archdeacon Protherae and the Rev Prebendary Williams. The candidates num- bered fifty-six, being from St Michael's, St Mary's and Holy Trinity. THE FAIR.—There was a large stock of cattle and horses at the monthly fair on Monday. Prices were not so good as last year, but a large number of animals were sold. Bullocks made from £10 to £14, and heifers from £8 to £10. Cows with calves were in good demand. There was a poor supply of good horses. OBITUARY.— We regret to announce the death, which took place on Tuesday morning, of Mr Edgar Attwood at his house in Victoria terrace. Deceased, who was fifty-two years of age, had been laid up for nine weeks, and latterly recovery was regar as improbable. He was the son of the late MJ J J Attwood, solicitor, and had lived all his lite in Aber- ystwyth and at one time practised considerab'>• as a solicitor. His many friends deeply regrt is death. The funeral took place yesterday ant. private. THE CONSERVATIVE CLUB.—On Tuesday evening Mr Robert Roberts read an interesting paper before the members of this club on "How to maintain our commercial supremacy." The chair was occupied by Mr E Hindley. The following gentlemen took part in the debate which succeeded the reading of the paper :—Messrs D M Lewis, J A Jones, J Evans, J D Williams, E J Evans, Walter Jones and others. The majority of the speakers laid great stress upon the necessity of keeping the engineering profession in the front, believing, as they did, that if England held the lead in this important department of her markets everything else would follow. The speakers showed a thorough knowledge of the subject, and a pleasant evening was spent. A INTERCOLLEGIATE HOCKEV MATCK.—U.C.W. v U.C.N.W. (BANGOR).—A large crowd witnessed the intercollegiate hockey match on the Smithfield ground ou Saturday morning. Thefoliowingbtdv students composed the teams:—Abervstwyth—Goal G G James full backs, M March, A Morgan half backs, E Bramfett, A Ritchie, W Thornton for- wards, W Linnell, L Banbury, C Dalley. E Smith, E Murphy. Bangor Cullege-Goal, WilJuie Bwvrn; full backs, Col ley, Yernie Hughes; half hacks, Rhoda Smith, Macdonald, Wilkinson; forwards, Xora. Sproxton, Haydon, Fanny Hamel (captain), Ethel Williams, Winifred Roberts. Referee, Mr R Cecil Roberts, B. Sc., Bangor. Owing to the wretched state of the ground the play was not of a very high character, aud the home eleven wou by 3 to none. ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE.—A meetii.g of the Assessment Committee was held at the New Market Hall on Monday. Mr W A Miller, chairman, pre- sided, and there were also present, Mr J J James, Mr Evan Lewis, Mr Richaru Edwards, Mr Charles Davies, Mr James Jones, Mr William Morris and Mr Hugh Hughes, clerk.—The Overseers for the township of Uchavudre brought in a supplemental valuation list which was considered aud approved. —The clerk was directed to request the Overseers of Aberystwyth to bring in a new supplemental valuation list dealing with the University College of Wales aud other buildings requiring readjust- ment. Appeals from the following parishes were also considered and dealt with :Issayndre, Llanychaiarn, Elerch, Trefeirig, Uchayhdre, Cyfoethy brenin. COB Sflow.—Prior to a meeting of the Cob Society, called for Monday afternoon, at the Lion Hotel, a public meeting of farmers was held, over which Mr Lewis Pryse, of Aberllolwyn, presided. The object of the meeting was to consider the advisability of amalgamating the Cob Society witt an Entire Horse Society, in order that the Society should have two horses. There was a good deal of opposition shown to the proposal by the farmers from the north of the Rheidol, and they argued that if the farmers living south of the river wanted a cart stallion, they ought to find the necessary funds.—On the proposition of Mr J M Williams, it was decided to recommend to the Cob Society to offer a prize of £ 10 for a cart stallion.—When sub- scriptions were asked for, some of those who voted in favour had left the room.—The meeting of the Cob Society was afterwards held, the same gentle- man presiding. It was agreed net to accept the reccnmendatioa of the public meeting, and sub- sequently it was agreed to offer a prize at the annual show of £30 for the best cob and £5 for a cart stallion. ENTERTAINMENT AT THE WORKHOUSE.—On Tues- day evening Mr George Fossett Roberts, one of the town guardians, presided over an entertainment given to the iumates of the workhouse. A series of magic lantern views were shown by Mr D J Lewis, Great Darkgate street, interspersed with several musical items. Mr Hugh Hughes, another of the guardians, described the various views, and the inmates were highly pleased. The musical part of the programme was as follows :—Pianoforte solo, Miss Morgan song, Master Tommy Jones; song, Miss Eunice Lewis; song, Miss Clatsworthy; duet, Miss L M Jones and Mr J Haydn Jones (encored) song, Mies Maggie Davies song, Master J Arthur Hughes (encored) duet, Miss M Davies, and Mr J A Jenkins song, Mr Haydn Jones; finale, Hen Wlad fy Nhadau." A vote of thanks was tendered all who had taken part on the motion of Mr William Jones, the master of the workhouse, seconded bv Mr D C Owen, builder. Mr G F Roberts, who was accompanied by Mrs Roberts, also provided refresh- ments for all the inmates, and distributed a quan- tity of tobacco amongst the old men. CHURCH OF ENGLAND TEMPERANCE SOCIETY.— The weekly meeting was held on Friday evening, at the Ysgoldy, when the room was comfortably filled. The programme was as follows :— Pianoforte solo, Miss Nowell, Little Darkgate-street; humour- ous reading, Mr E E Ellis, Crynfryn Buildings; song, Miss Polly Thorp, 2, Stanley-terrace Welsh recitation, Mr David Davies, Northgate-street; flute solo, Mr Hine, Penmaesglas; English address, Mr W Wright, Little Darkgate-street; Welsh address, Mr Isaac Rees; extempore address, Mr Rea Richards, Heart of Oak House recitation, Mr Denstal1 Thorlev, Mahester. At the close of the programme the first open discussion took place, in which Messrs W Wright, Evan Lewis, D Thorley, Mrs Panchen, Mr Peter Williams, North-road, Mr Rea Richards, and 111' David Williams took part. COLLEGE NEW!.—The students who have joined the 5th V.B., S.W.B., are busi1y engaged in drilling each evening, under the instruction of the Drill- Sergeant. This year the regiment will go into camp at Towyn, and the men are looking forward with much pleasure to the annual encampment.— The contest for the gymnastic championship took place at the College on Saturday afternoon. Owing to the inter-collegiate football match being on at the same time, there was not a large attendance. The competitors numbered five, being—W A Morris, H John, J Edwards, LI Jones and J B Davies. The exercises were performed with grace and ease, which showed careful and systematic training. From the commencement W A Morris showed decided superiority in all the exercises, and was almost immediately recognised by the onlookers as the winner. The first group of exercises were per- formed upon the parallel bars. They consisted of five set exercises and one voluntary by each com- petitor. The voluntaries were decidedly good, showing to advantage the agility and strength of the gy nasts. The secoud group of exercises èon- sisted of five set and one voluntary on the horizon- tal bar, and the third group of three set and one voluntary exercise on the rings. These were followed by rope climbing.—In giving the adjudi- cation Mr Footman said there was no doubt what- ever as to the championship. W A Morris was equal to the best he had ever come across in college or school gymnasiums.—Morris was awarded the championship gold medal. The others were placed as follows :—Llew Jones, J Edwards, H John, J B Davies. COUNTY SCHOOL GOYERXORS. The ordinary meeting of the Governors took place on Friday evening. Mr George Davis presided and there were also present Mrs Jesse Williams, Miss Maria Jones, the Yen. Archdeacon Protheroe, Rev T Levi, Pro- fessor Genese, and Mr John Evans, clerk.—There was little business of importance, and a discussion took place upon the financial position of the schools. —The Clerk said that there was £900 required to clear off the debt on the schools.—The Chairman thought that the opportunity was an excellent one for those Welshmen who had gone abroad to make their fortunes to show their patriotism by subscrib- ing to the schools.—It was said that in the case of persons who had died and not paid the executors refused to do.—Archdeacon Protheroe The Court of Chancery will relieve them of the responsibility. —The Clerk Yes, but not compel them to pay.— Professor Genese thought Archdeacon Protheroe might assist them,-Archdcacon Protheroe: I have been begging for twenty-five years and I want a rest. It ia, however, a sad reflection te think that a large number of p. omises had not been paid, and something should be done to bring pressure to bear upon then1.-Professor Genese I think it is rather a sore subject.—The Chairman We have taken upon ourselves responsibility upon promises made at the time, and not yet fulfilled.-—Professor Genese then proposed that they ask the Mayor to make a public appeal.—Mrs Williams Do you think any- one would come forward without being called upon P —Professor Genese We could also call. Still a good many do not know that we are in urgent need of money.—The Clerk: The school is thoroughly established and deserves support.—Prof. Genese Nothing has been done since Lord Rendel gave his £ 300.—-Archdeacon Protheroe It is scarcely fair for parties to incur liabilities upon the faith of certain persons giving so much, and then to find that they backed out for some reason or other.— The Cl°rk And the list of subscribers was pub- lished in the local papers at the time and no objec- tion taken.—Kev T Levi Some made promises of £30 and refused to pay before they died and you cannot expect to get that from the executors.— Archdeacon Protheroe If they made promises they ought to carry them out.—Professor Genese And one has since been Mayor of the town (laughter). —Mrs Williams: Will you call upon them again ? — The Chairman They have been called upon and I think it is rather infra dig for any committee t ) be dunning people for money.—Professor Genese Can Archdeacon Protheroe and the other churches and chapels give a Sunday for a collection.—Archdeacon Protheroe I cannot give a Sunday for a long time. Rev T Levi I do not think Sunday collections would lighten our burden very much.—It was then agreed that the Mayor should be asked to make an appeal.

KERRY. TUAL IMPROVE ASSOCIATION.— The final of the above ,1:8 held on Tuesday evening 1 ■ a a lecture with lime-iight illustrations was >iveil by Mr A S Tetley, M.A., Newtown, entitied "tonlitfiin climbing iu North Wales." The chair was occupied by the Rev Thomas Phillips, the Aloafc. There was a fair attendance and the lecture and exquisite were verv much apprecia'ei nrd ("'lowed w--S; much interest. A hearty vote of thanks was ,-iven to Mr l'etley at the close. Mr ie« manipulated the lantern. During tlie ness.oti there Uve been Ii) meetiugs, including nigk- Essays have been given on various interesting subjects, viz," Russia," "The Transvaal," Social aspects cf banking," A tour round the world," &c. Some of the debates were warmly takeu up. The library, too, has been made good use of. Mrs Willans haa kicdly acted as president, and the chairman is the T Phillips. Mr Charlie Davies undertook the secretarial duties whielt he carried out in all efficient manner. Mr J E Yenables is the treaurer.

DOLAXOG. LITERARY MEETING.—On Wednesday evening a literary meeting was held at Saron Wesleyan Chapel. Mr Owen, Tymawr, presided, and Mr Lloyd, Tirdu, acted as conductor. The following were the awards:—Answering six questions on general knowledge, Mr J Jones, Gwaeuynog; dialogue, the Misses Mcrris, Voel; sight singing, Mr Jones, Pentre^ any recitation, Miss Jane Morris. Yoel; solo for children, Y Tad sydd wnh y llyw," Master Stephen Jones, Glanllyn: baritone solo, Mr James Jones, Gwaenynog soprano solo, O rtowcb i mi fwth," Miss Jones, Glanllyn; trio, "Cyn caufod y dwyrain yn gwenu," Mr J Jones and parey; any solo for children, Miss Jane Morris, oel; quartette, the tuue Leamington," Mr Joseph Jones, Gwaenynog, and party. The tune lI1eirioIJydd," for a parry of eigbt, prize awarded to Saron party, conducted by Mr Joseph Jones, Gwaenynog. Messrs E Dryhurst Roberts, R Griffiths, and R Gittins wer", the adjudicators.

WELSHPOOL. Do YOU WANT GOOD RELIABLE SEEDS FOR GARDEN OR FIELD ?—Garden Seeds: New stock of ail best sorts just arrived. Farm Seeds grown by W Farmer at his Caethro Farm and recently threshed there. A large quantity of exceptinally fine clover seed, cowgrass and seAi oats (new variety). Samples and low prices on application to W Farmer. Seedgrower and Iron Merchant, Berriew street, Welshpool. [Advt. If you want the best cakes and pastry, call at Wat- son's, 5, Hall street, where you will fiud all kinds of Swiss, continental, and fancy pastries. Wedding-, birthday, and christening cakes, elaborately orna- menteci, to order. [Advt. IF YOU WANT a good reliable Bicycle at the cheap- est rate goo to Thomas J. Evans, ironmonger, and ask for quotations. Old machines taken as part pav- ment. Ladies'and Gent's Bicycles for hire. [Adyt. IMPORTANT TO LADIES.—Any lady can buy the best brushe>1, brooms, polishes, furniture and 11, '0r stain?, paints and varnishes at Humphrey Jones and Son, Hall street. [Adn. A MAIDEN SESSION.—There were no cases for hearing on Monday at the montbly meeting of the County Magistrates. SYMPATHY.—We inesday's meeting of the Wesley Guild partook of a devotional character, a paper on A few minutes with a good character" being read by Mr C J Pryce. Afterwards a vote of condolence with the relatives of the late Mrs Twist was passed. LIVERMORE'S MINSTRELS.—On Thursday evening Messrs Livermore Bros brought their popular Court Minstrels to this town and delighted a large audience in the Assembly Rooms. It is a long time since such a good troupe visited Pool and it is to be hoped they will return again soon. PRESENTATION TO A RESERVIST.—Yesterday even- ing week Private A Crowtber, Powell's row, who for some time as been employed at Messrs E 0 Jones and Sons' timber works, was presented wIth a pipe, pouch and tobacco on the occasion of his departure with the Militia Reserve for active service in South Africa. Mr A H Jones made the pre- sentation and the recipient appropriately re- sponded. DEATH or MR JOHN ASTLEY. — In the hours of yesterday morning passed away a genial spirit in the person of Mr John Astley, a c-ompara- tively young man, who for some years had been deer-keeper in Powis Castle Park. The cause of death was consumption. The deceased married Miss Bebb, late of the Red Lion. and for her and the other relatives the deepest sympaty is felt. MARCil PLEASURE FAIR.—Although there is no question that May fair is the most patronised of the three in this district, still a great many attend- ed the fair field, in Salop road on Monday last. This year Mr Farrell had brought some first-class hobby- horses aud also" electric cockerels," a novelty to Welshpool. Amongst the side shows was a snaky exhibition." The familiar swing boats, cocoanut stalls, shooting galleries, etc., made up the rest of the amusements. DEATH OF Miss H. M. TWENTYMAN.—We regret to announce the death of Miss Hilda Mattie Twentyman, daughter of Mr A C and Mrs Twenty- man, of Castlecroft, Wolverhampton, and niece of Mr Charles E Howell, of Rhiewport, which took place on Friday week. Twentyman was a frequent visitor at Rhiewport, and was well-known in Montgomeryshire, where she had gained many friends. Last November she took an active interest in the bazaar promoted by the Welshpool Con- servatives, her llame appearing amou the lin of stallholders, with her aunts, the MisBes Howell. LIBRARY COMMITTEE,—The monthly meeting of the Free Library Committee was held on Wednes- day, Colonel Twyford presiding. There were also present Messrs C Shuker, Maurice Jehu, and T Simpson Jones.—Mr C H Jones (librarian) pre- sented his report for the month of February, shoJw. ing that the lending department had been open to the public 20 days. during which period 862 books had been issued, 711 of wbich were works of fiction. A volume had been given to the Library by Mr H Randall and Mrs Roper had contributed four copies of the Anny and Sary, to be placed ill the reading- room.- Hoth the donors were thanked for their kindness. BOROUGH POLIO: COURT.—This Court was held on Tuesday before the Mavor (Mr D Jones), Col. Twyf0rrl, Rnd Messrs Maurice Jehu and Jolm Reese, D.C.C. Williams was also present.—The Mayor did not sit in the school cases. — Mr U A Breeze applied foi a further adjournment of one month in the exse of Sarah, child of Samuel Payne (iabourer), Mount Pleasai t. Granted.—Joseph Wilcox. Whitt- ington's Passage, was summoned by the officeir for not sending his son John (13) to school. Mr Breeze said the boy had not made a single attendance out of a possible 50. Order made. THE FAIR.—There was not a very large supply of fat stock in the Smithfield on Monday. The prices realised were from 6d to 6id per 1b. There was a fair supply of sheep, which made 7;j to 7d per lb. Pork pigs made 8s 6d to 9s 6d per score, and bacon pigs 7s to 8s per score. Yeal 7d per Ib, There was a fair attendance of dealers and other buyers. Messrs Morris, Marshall and Poole bad a good sup- ply of cattle, sheep, calves and pigs at their mart, which were disposed of at satisfactory prices. ACKNOWLEDGMENT.—At the fortnightly meeting of the Borough Magistrates, on Thursday, the Town Clerk (Mr Edward Jones), read the following letter, dated February 22nd, from Mr Matthew Powell, Bank :—" I am in receipt of your letter of the 20th instant, with copy of a resolution of the Justices of the Borough of Welshpool, expressing condolence with the family of the late Mr Samuel Powell. On behalf of m\self and the other members of the family I shall be obliged if you will please convey to tbe Borough JU5tices our grateful appreciation of their kind sympathy in our bereavement, and of their expressions of regard for my father's long services on the Bench." A FAITHFUL SERVANT.—Death has been very busy in Welshpoo1 during the past fortnight, and amongst those who have paid the debt of nat ire is Edward Cranston, a native of Abervstwyth. but who for the past 36 years has been employed by Mr W Rogers at his shop in High street. Cranston, who was of advanced age, died on Monday from the effects of bronchitis. He was a staunch Churchman and one of the founders of the old Workingmen's Conservative Club. The body was interred on Thursday in Christ Churchyard in the presence of a representative gathering. As far as can be ascertained there are no immediate relatives surviving. THE LATE MRS YAUGHAN, SEYERN STREET. We regret to record the death of Mrs Eliza- beth Yaughan, of Severn street, Welshpool, which took place last week. Tbe deceased lady was in her 72nd year, and throughout her life was a staunch Churchwoman. She was of an extremelv charitable disposition, and, by her good deeds, had endeared herself to the poor, who, especially, will feel her loss keenly. She was a daughter of the late Mr Powell, of Buttington Hall, and a sister to Mr Wm Powell, of Leighton, and to Mrs Yaughan Roberts, cf Pevern Cottage. Her husband, Mr Thomas Vaughan, who died in 1873, for some time resided at the Moors, now occupied by Mr Edward Green. There were no children of the marriage. The funeral, which took place on Saturday, was a very quiet one, in accordance with the wishes of the relatives and in harmony with the unobtrusive and gentle life of the deceased. It was attended by the immediate relati/es, and by, amongst ot hers, Dr Hawksworth, Mr G D Harrison, the Rev Merlin Davies, Mr Matthew Powell, and Mr T W Davies. Wreaths and crosses were sent by the following:- ''In loving memory of my dear sister," J Roberts In loving remembrance," fr jm Jim and Lena; In ever-loving memory," from all at The Pentre, Leighton In loving memory," from Hilda With deepest regret," from all at Frizinghall In loving memory of our dear cousin," the Misses Hall, Newtown; In loving memory of an old friend," from Mrs and Mies Withers, Shrewsbury In loving remembrance and sincere regret," from Mrs J L Henham In loving remembrance and deepest sympathy," from Miss Kinsey, Strews- bury With deep regret for the loss of a dear and I much valued friend," Mis Kenuerr "Witk loving sympathy," from Fanny aiicl ti,e Rev J Francis, Liverpool In loving remembrance of an ever kind friend," Lizzie Pryce; In loving remem. brance and with deel) sympathy," from Mr and Mrs Fred Francis; "In loving memory of a very dear friend," from Grace Farmer; In loving memory of a oear old friend," from Mrs T Pugh Jones "With deep sympathy," from Mr and Mrs Edward Jones and all at Clive place; In affectiouaie remem- brance," from T Griffiths; With loving sympathy and condolence," from Mrs Bridgewater; "In affectionate remembrance," from Mr and Mrs Wall; In kind remembrance," from Mr and Mrs Years- ley; li In loving remembrance," from Mrs E T Williams and Miss E S Williams; "With loving sympathy and condolence," trom Mr and Mrs Breese; With Mr and Mrs J Westburv Wilson's deepest sympathy;" "With deep sympathy," from Mrs Herbert Hawkswortf, In memory of a very dear friend," from Mrs Roper and Miss Salter; "With sincere svmpathv and condolence," from Mr and Mrs D D.-iv'ies; In kind remembrance," from Mr &nd Mrs R H Jones "In affectionate remembrance," from Mrs Alexan- der Davies; "In affectionate memory," from Mr and Mrs M Powell; In loving remembrance," from Susie Prvce; "In remembrance," from R Snow; With deep sympathy," from Mr and Mrs Walter Millard; "In remembrance," from Miss Nelly Ward. All arrangements for the interment were supervised by Mr Anderson of High street.

OSWESTRY. MASONIC INTERCESSION SERYICE. It is nearlv 30 years since such a service was held in Oswestrv before and this no doubt accounted for the large attendance at the service at Holy Trinity Church on Sunday afternoon. The mem- bers of the craft assembled in the vestrv. and there assumed their regalia, and a little after 3 p.m. the surpliced choir and clergy—who included Bro the Rev T Redfern (vicar of Holy Trinity). Bro the Rev Norman Ogilvy (vicar of Oswestry),*Bro the Rev J B Meredith (vicar of Kinnerley), and the Rev W Pownall Owen (curate of Holy Trinity)—formed in procession and marched to the north door to receive the Freemasons. The hymn, Through the night of doubt and sorrow," was sung as a processional, and the choir led the procession up the nave, the Masons being headed by the Deputy Grand Master of the Province of Shropshire (Mr Rowland G Venables) and the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master of North Wales (Lord Harlech). The procession also included four Lewises," the sons of Freemasons, who bore the volume of the Sacred Law, which was placed on a table at the foot of the altar steps. Their names were Masters Donald Nicholson, Denis Poole, Arthur Redfern, and Keith Minshall. The Brethren followed according to the order of Masonic precedence, and took their position in seats reserved for them on both sides of the nave. The first part of the service consisted of the second Litan\ from the form of Intercession which was said by Bro the Rev T Redfern, and R G Yenables read the first, and Bro Lord Harlech the second lesson. The remainder of the service was taken by Bro Redfern. The service partook of a special musical character. Disappointment was felt that Bro Maidwvn Humphreys, R.A.M., who bad been announced to take part, found himself unable to do so, but the soloantbem "Tàou didst not leave his soul in hell," and the special Masonic anthem," Hail Masonry divine," were taken by Mr A Brown and Bro J W Dow in a very creditable manner. The preacher was Bro the Rev J B Meredith, W.M., of St Oswald's Lodge. The offertory, which was divided between the Mayor's Fund and the Masonic War Fund, amounted to Jbl7 5s 9d. The service closed with the sieging of the National Anthem and a re- cessional hvuan, during which the procession leform- ed and left the church at the west door, and returned to the vestry. Before dispersing, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master for Shropshire, Bro R G Yenables, on behalf of the brethren, congratulated Lord Harlech on entering his eighty- second year. He also addressed a few words of encouragement to the Lewises," and intimated his intention to present them with copies of fie volume of Sacred Law. Bro T Owen, P.G.A.D. of C., ably acted as director of ceremonies, assisted by Bro E M Gardner, P.P.G.A.P. Bro H H Tims presided at the organ, and was assisted by Bro E H Danuatt.

ELLESMERE. Notices of meetings, concerts, &c., to be reported in this paper, may be forwarded to our district representative, Mr J. G. Evans, 16, Trinity Yillas, Park street, Oswestry. LITERARY SOCIETY.—The weekly meeting was held in the Towu Hall on Wednesday, Mr R E Lloyd in the chair. Ttje:<- was a good attendalce. The Secretary read a ler from the Rev S T W Barker (vioe-presioerit i thanking the members of the society for their kiuu expressions of sympathy in his sad bereavement. Mr J Pixton read a very excelienr paper on Money." Miss Lee proposed a very hearty vote of thanks to him for his paper. This was seconded by Mr John Hood and carried unanimously. A very good debate followed. BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—TUESDAY. rrwHiit Mr Brownlow R C Tower (chairman) presiding, the Revs W C E Kynaston and H Moody, Messrs ii D Chapman, J D Owen, John Hood, T Emberton, J Darlirigton, A J P Child, S Adams, D Capper, E Butler, and W Trevor Ward; with Mr R E Lloyd, clerk; Messrs Williams and Rutter, relieving officers; and Mr J Davies, Workhouse master. STATISTICS. Cut-relief administered by Mr Rutter in the Ellesmere district in the first week of the fortnight £9 tis to 109 recipients, against X9 7s to 112 recipi- ents second week, X9 2s 6d to 108 recipients. compared with X9 7s to 112 recipients last year, Hanmer district, per Mr W Williams, first week, L3 Is 6d to 32 recipients, compared with £2 118 6d to 25 recipients; second week, L5 Is 6\1 to 32 recipients, compared with 12 10s 6d to 25 recipi- ents last year. Number in the House in the first week 66, compared with 66 in the corresponding week of last year second week. 68 against 68. Tramps relieved 93, being a decrease of 51. VISITING COMMITTEE. The Yisiting Committee (Messrs Butler and Adams) reported their visit through the House that day, when they found everything satisfactory, and the inmates clean and well cared fur. NEW TROUGHINGS FOR THE DOWN PIPES. Four tenders were received for this work at the House, and that of Mr James Hosker was accepted, subject to the provision of the best Coalbrookdale spouting. THE BUDGET. The Clerk submitted an estimate of the probable receipts and expenditure for the ensuing half year. He stated that the balance at the end of March wouldbe;E936. The total expenditure in the course of the year would probably be £ 1,728 Os Id, towards which the Board would have certain payments from the collectors, the County Council in respect of officers' salaries, and the Government under the Agricultural Rates Act, and smaller sums totalling X681 Os lOd. The sum required to be raised amongst the ratepayers would, therefore, be zCI,046 19s 3d, which would be met by a 2d rate, pro- ducing P,1,042 148 2d.—In reply to a question, the Clerk said the rate was the same as last half vear. —The estimate was approved. COMPETITION FOR THE STONES. The Board having on hand a large qaantitv of Clee Hill stone, the Clerk was instructed to write to various public bodies soliciting an offer for them. The Clerk to the County Council acknowledged the receipt of the letter which will be considered in due course; the Rural District Council of Ellesmere offered 8s per ton; the Urban Council of Ellesmere offered to take the whole at 8s 6d per ton provided they were allowed to take them away as required; the Overton Rural Council were not prepared to make an offer.-In view of there being no offer from the Countv Council. Mr Darlington thought the sale be deferred until a reply was received.—Mr Emberton did not think that would be fair, and thought the stones should be sold to the authority which had made the iiivhesi offet" He did not think it was likely that the county Council would purchase.—The Master said the Divisional Surveyor of the County Council was at the House the other day and said lie hoped the County Council would allow him to ;;ve the stone. — Thereupon, me Board agreed to Mr Darlington's suggestion. MEDICAL RK-APPOINTM KNT. The Local Government Board lias sanctioned the re appoint ment of Dr Roe as medica1, ffieerfor the Welshampton district. — —

THE ADVENTURES OF CARADOC. IS. Salterand Rowlands. W e.shpool 1899. ihe present little work, penned oy B. C. Hardy, is one of the most charming romances we have read for a long time. Caradoc who plays a leading pan n the drama, is a gaUant soldier whom time ^selected as Captain o t e^ nar i ftnd subsequently becomes one of the Knights of the Round Table. The auventuies which Arthur and his knight go through are graphically told, the sad death of the King making a pathetic cia di,ig.- The Tl*ine., and British hport*iacn.

T3RINTING of every description executed neat JL quick and cheap at the COUNTY TIMES Office Welshpool.