The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

THE CHASE OF DE WET. 5CO HORSES ABANDONED. Monday. A Correspondent telegraphs from Pretoria that the capture of De Wet and his followers seems to be immment, the BoerGeneral being practically sur. rounded. His followers appear to be wholly dis- organised. In addition to a Krupp gun, they have abandoned 500 of their horses and a nnmber of Cape carte, and De Vet's proposed Cape Raid has, therefore, ended in failure, and he is trekking to the North-east, closely pressed on all sides.

LORD ROBERTS'S JOURNEY, Lord Roberts arrived at Port Elizabeth on Friday and met with a splendid reception. He reached Capetown on Saturday, where he had a most en. thusiastic welcome.

MEETING AT DURBAN. AFRIKANDER ATTACKS CONDEMNED. A mass meeting was held at Durban on Saturday at which resolutions were unanimously adopted condemning the gross attacks made on Sir Alfred Milner at the People's C.ingress at Worcester, and ex'vessing the opinion that the annexation of the tiuef Republics will tend to abolish racial animosi- ties apd secure prosperity and good government.

FARM BURNING. STATEMENT BY LORD ROBERTS. Tuesday. "Lord Roberts, who is at Capetown, has issued an ■explanatory statement, wi:h regard to the burning of farms. In every case, he says, there must bean -order in writing from the General Commanding.

LORD ROBERTS DEPARTS. IRISH SOUVENIR. The transport Canada, with Lord Roberts on board, sailed from Capetown at five o'clock yester- day. The Mayor and a number of leading citizens visited the ship to say farewell, and Lady Roberts was presented with a souvenir of South Africa by the Irish ladies of Capetown. The flagship Doris escorted the Canada ten miles up coast.

A RUNNING FIGHT. ACTIVITY OF THE BOERS. Thursday. Lord Kitchener, in a Despatch to the War Office, states that General Knox reports from Helvetia that he is engaged in a running fight with De Wet's force. The enemy is moving in the direction of Reddersburg, where there is a Column ready to co- operate. The Boers in the Barberton district have recently shown considerable activity. On the 8th inst, they attacked a. Mounted Infantry post, and our casualties were three killed, five wounded, and thirteen taken prisoners. These latter were sub- sequently released.

FIGHTING NEAR ZEERUST. BRITISH AMBUSH FAILS. Friday. No further information as to the whereabouts of De Wet or the result of the renning fight between his force and the columns under the direction of General Knox has arrived. On Saturday there was some fighting near Zeerust. Reinforcements were sent by Lord Methuen to the force originally en- gag-ed. and an attempt was made to draw the Boers into an ambush but it failed.

HOT ENGAGEMENT. FOUR OFFICERS KILLED. NORTHUMBRIANS INVOLVED. Friday. A-Central News telegram says official news has been received that Generals Broadwood and Clem- entia are hotly engaged with the enemy. Four officers, including Col Legge, of the 20th Hussars, have been killed, and four companies of the North- umberland Regiment are involved.

THE AFRIKANDER ATTACKS. RESOLUTIONS OF ABHORRENCE. At the suggestion of the Mayor of Capetown, the Corpoiations of the chief towns throughout the country are passing resolutions expre-sing abhor- rence of Glre vindictive attacks made upon Sir Alfred Milner at the Worcester Coneress, and un- bounded confidence in the High Commissioner's policy.

MILNER AND iFRIKANDERS. DEPUTATION FROM THE CONGRESS. Sir Alfred Milner yesterday received the Depu- tation from the Worcester Congress, who requested j him to forward to the Queen the Resolutions which had been passed at that gathering. Sir Alfred doubted the wisdom of passing such Resolutions; but, inasmuch as one wasfdirected against himself, and he wished to avoid any appearance of suppress- ing it, said he would accede to the request of the Deputation.

LOCAL CASUALTIES. Dangerously ill. Dee 8 (disease not stated). 2nd South Wales Borderers—6160 Private T Harris. Johannesburg, Dec 8. 1st Royal Welsh Fusiliers — (4784 ?) Private J Fowler (wounds). 2nd South Wales Bordcivrs—3069 Private A Toofce. Deaths. 2nd South Wales Borderers—5859 Lance Corporal T Horseman (enteric). Knigersdorp. Dec 4. 2nd Shropshire Light, fnfintrv-6138 Private E Heleby (enteric), Pretoria, Dec 6.

ROBERTS AT CAPETOWN. OVATION TO MILNER. UNBOUNDED ENTHUSIASM. Lord Roberts was entertained at luncheon at Good Hope Hall on Mondav, Sir Alfred Milner, the Bishop ■of Capetown, and the leading military and civil residents being present. Mr O'Reilly, the Mayor, proposing the health of Sir Alfred Milner, declared that, despite the attacks made upon him, the con- fidence of the people of Capetown in his policy was Tinabated. The toast was received with a remark- able display, the guests rising from their seats and -cheering again and again. Sir Alfred Milner on rising to reply, was unable to speak for some moments. The Mayor next proposed the health of Lord Roberts. The Field Marshal, he so id, had done more for the Empire than any man living. Beloved by the Queen and her people, the idol of the Army, considerate, humane, and brave as a lion, he conld yet be led by a child. He was going home crowned with victory in a glorious campaign. The Mayor thanked his Lordship and the Army for the victories they had gained in South Africa. The toast was received with great enthusiasm, the ^.heerins' I)einL, loud and nrolmis?f>d. Lord Roberts, in reply, said he regretted that he ■was unable to remain until peace was formally declared. A guerrilla warfare wfts still proceeding, but he was satisfied that it would not last long. eU nd(jr the able guidance of Lord Kitchener, in iwhose judgement and military skill he had implicit .confidence, he felt sure that the guerrilla warfare -would be brought to a speedy conclusion. Refer- .tilig to the return of the refu gees, his Lordship said he was aware that there had been a great .deal of agitation in the hope of hastening their return. He could assure the refugees that they had his most heartfelt sympathy, and that, as soon •as possible, Lord Kitchener would give them the .required permission and facilities. Lord Roberts said he had taken upon himself the entire responsibility for fixing the date of their return in October, and their subsequent, disappointment was due to reasons of a military, and not of a civil haracter. The lack of food, caused by the frequent breaks in the line, was such that, sending the people back would have meant, starvation to them. Sir Alfred Milner, added Lord Roberts, had done his utmost on behalf of the refugees, and his co- operation had been of immense assistance to the ) military anthorites. He concluded with a tribute ¡ to the work done by the High Commissioner, and assured the refugees that Sir Aifrcd was doing his utmost to help them. Sir Alfred Milner, on rising to reply to the toast of his health, was received with immense enthusiasm, evokpd by the attacks made upon him at the Worcester Congress. His Excel!ency said he would only interpose for a few moments, and he wishe.l that he needed not to interpose at all. It was impossible for him to ignore the significance of such a demonstration as had been accorded him. He continued that the cheering and cordiality with which he was accustomed to be received by Cape- town audiences, seemed only to increase as the attacks from certain quarters became more bitter and more personal (cheers). Frankly, lie regretted those attacks for the sake of the Colony (cheers). It seemed to him a bad innovation in their public life, this habit of proving loyalty to the Queen by vilifying her representative (cheers). On his own account he did not mind them in the least. The iast thing that would occur to him would be either to reply to such attacks, or to aliow them to influence him in any way whatever. He was too deeply grateful for the support and confi- dence always generously and spontaneously ac- corded to him by the loyal section ot' the cninmu- nity to forfeit as he thought he would forfe.t some portion thereof if he either allowed calumny to upset his temper or to affect in any way whatever his course of action (enthusiastic applause.), The Governor, in conclusion, paid a warm tribute to Lord Roberts.

CAPETOWN FESTIVITIES. SWORD OF HONOUR PRESENTED. Wednesday. Business was suspended at Capetown on Monday, in order that the people might take part in or witness the festivities in honour of Lord Roberts. In the afternoon the Field Marshal attended the great open-air demonstration, and received addresses from the Town Council and citizens, the locai Irish Association, and the Indian community. The reception accorded him was of a most enthu- siastic character. During the proceedings the Corporation Sword of Honour was presented to him. A grand AJiiitary Tattoo was held at night, and the city was brilliantly illuminated. THE CAPETOWN SWORD. The Sword of Honour which has just been pre- sented to Lord Roberts by the Mayor and Corpora- tion of Capetown was designed and manufactured by the Goldsmiths and Silversmiths Company (Limited), of London. The hilt is of solid 18-carat gold, and the decoration iaof rich repouss6 work of the highe.-t character. The blade is of the finest steel, richly etched with ornamentation and emblems, the names connected with the General's great successes in the recent war, and bears the following linscription :—"Presented by the Mayor and Corporation of the City of Capetown to Field illarshal Lord Roberts, V.C., G.C.B., G.C.S I., G.C.I.E., in recognition of his brilliant services in South Africa, 1900. Draw for God and thy Queen, Justice, and Truth."

GERMANY AND THE WAR. OFFICIAL STATEMENT. Count von Biilow made a statement in the Ger- man Reichstag yesterday respecting Germany's position in regard to South Africa. The German Government, he said, did all that lay in its power to prevent the outbreak of war, and left the two Republics in no doubt as to the state of things in Europe and as to Germany's strict neutrality. Even the sympathies cherished in Germany for the ideal Boers and their freedom could change nothing. As to mediation, the Minister reminded the House that even the gently-worded inquiry from America wa9 rejected by the British Government officially and categorically. As to the non-reception of Mr Kruger by the Emperor, it could not have been of any use either to him or to Germany, any more than the Paris ovation and the reception at the Elysee had been to the ex-President. Any ovation Mr Kruger might have received in Berlin might have prejudiced Germany's International relations, which it was the duty of the Government to protect.

KRUGER IN HOLLAND. A CHILLING RECEPTION. Queen Wilhelmina received Mr Kruger at her Palace at The Hague on Saturday. There were no military ceremonies, but the ex-President was fetched in a State carriage. The audience lasted a quarter of an hour. The visit was returned on behalf of her Majesty, by the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. A correspondent states that at neither of the visits was any allusion made to the Transvaal or the War. According to statements made in Boer circles, owing to the discouraging result of Mr Kruger's visit to Queen Wilhelmina, Dr Leyds has abandoned his proposed visit to the Czar at Livadia.

DUTCH REPUDIATION. RUSSIAN DISCOURAGEMENT. Tuesday. At The Hague Mr Kruger yesterday had a long interview with the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. He received several deputations during the day, and last evening there was a torchlight demonstration in front of his hotel. Owing to the Dutch Government's repudiation oi the letter of the President of the First Chamber to Mr Kruger, expressing a hope for the independence of the Transvaal, it is expected that M Van Naamen will resign that office. From Odessa, comes the report that the idea of Mr Kruger visiting the Czar re- ceives no encouragement in Russian official circles.

A CHILDREN'S SERENADE. HOLLAND TO BE PASSIVE. Wednesday. A correspondent at The Hague states that a school children's serenade of Mr Kruger, which was to have taken place last night, was prohibited by the police owing to the disturbances on the previous evening. It is stated that, owing to the agitation excited by Mr Kruger's presence at The Hague, he will shortly remove to a villa at Haar- lem. At his interview with the Dutch Ministers on Monday, Mr Kruger is said to have been informed, in regard to his idea of arbitration, that Holland must adopt a passive rule, and that the initiative in any such movement belonged to the Great Powers.

WAR ITEMS. SERVICE AT ST. PAUL'S. The authorities of St Paul's Cathedral have ar- ranged to hold on the last day of the year aspecia service in memory of those who have fallen in the war. It is understood that the service will be at seven in the evening. PRINCE AND THANKSGIVING. On Thursday, January 3rd, the Prince of Wales will accompany Lord Roberts on a drive through London to Sb Paul's Cathedral where a special service of thanksgiving will take place. It is and- cipated that the arrangements will permit of this service being held in the early afternoon, and pro- vision will be made for the many official and other persons who desire to attend it. FUTURE OF THE YEOMANRY. The Secretary of State of War has appointed a committe to consider the future organisation, training, and equipment of the Yeomanry Force. The committee will consist of the following officers :-Lieut. Colonel Lord Harris, G.C.S.I., Royal East Kent Yeomanry (cha/irman); Colonel the Earl of Dundonald, C.B., M.V.O.; Colofcel Viscount Galway, A.D.C., Nottinghamshire Yeo- manry (Sherwood Rangers); Lieut. Colonel Lucas, D.A.G., Imperial Yeomany; Lieut. Colonel Rolleston, 3rd Battalion Imperial Yeomanry; Capt. the Marquess of Bath, Royal Wilts Yeomanry and Captain Sir J Dickson-Poynder, Bart., M.P., 1st Battalion Imperial Yeomanry. Mr R H Brade, of the War Office, will act as Secretary. At Leeds, on Saturday, thousands of citizens gathered to witness the arrival of Private Ward, who was wounded in South Africa, and who had been awarded the V.C. A City Alderman placed his carriage at the disposal of Ward, who was loudly cheered and accompanied by a procession, with bands of music, through the streets. The War Office on Saturday issued a Special Army Order containing details with regard to gratuities to be aiven to all ranks of officers and men who have served in the war in South Africa. The gratuities range from X5 to £ 2,500. Cornishmen in London have in contemplation a dinner to General Pole-Carew and other Cornish- men who have served in the war in South Africa. It has been definitely settled that Pretoria is to be the seat of the High Commissioner.

THE WELSH HOSPITAL. THE LATE PROFESSOR HUGHES. At a meeting of the General Committee of the Welsh Hospital, held on Monday at Sir John Williams's house, 63, Brook street, London, a report on the past working and present position of the hospital was read by Sir David Evans, chairman of the Executive Committee. The report showed that between June 5 and September 24, 757 cases had been treated in the hospital, the most common being enteric and gunshot. The number of deaths was only eight, giving the most satisfactory percentage 3 fl 05. No statistics were available as to the work done by the staff when assisting in the Bloeui- fontein hospitals during the entoric outbreak before June, and the returns from Pretoria since the depaiture of the senior staff at the end of September had not, been received. The surgeons reported that amoug all the gunshot cases treated not a single amputation was found necessary, owing to the clean nature of the perfuratiulI made by the Mauser bullet and the great success attending the use of the telephone probe—a new instrument first used in South Africa by the surgeons of the Welsh hospital. The action of the Executive Committee in consenting, at the special request of Lord Roberts, to the hospital remaing eut for a further period of three months was approved.—On the motion of Mr Edmund Owen, seconded by Mr Brynmor Jones, the report was adopted.—The following resolution was proposed by Sir John Williams and seconded by Viscountess Parker, pre- sident of the Ladies' Committee The Committee of the Welsh Hospital in South Africa desire to record their profound sorrow for the death of the originator of the hospital and their able and devoted secretary, Professor Alfred Hughes, who, when the hospital was in serious difficulties, owing to deaths and illness among the staff, volunteered to go to South Africa to undertake its management, and while in the discharge of his duties at Pretoria fell a victim to enteric fever. The committee feel that no nobler example of self-sacrifice can be found in the annals of medicine. They would convey to the sorrowing widow, children, and relatives their deepest sympathy, and at the same time express their highest appreciation of his self-sacrificing services in the cause of the sufferers in the war."

CHINESE CRISIS. IMPORTANT ARREST. LI'S SECRETARY SUSPECTED. Tuesday. A Pekin telegram announces the arrest on Sun- day of Li Hung Chang's Manchu Secretary, Yiko, at Count .Waldersee's order. Yiko is accused of communicating with the Boxers. THE JOINT N<JTE. PROGRESS OF NEGOTIATIONS. A New York message states that a telegram has been sent there from Pekin to the effect that all the Ministers except Sir E Satow have received instructions from their Governments agreeing to the joint Note which was proposed at their last meeting. The Ministers will probably meet again to-day, and if Sir E Satow has by that time been instructed to sign, communications will immediately be opened with the Chinese Plenipotentiaries. PROMOTION OF OFFICIALS. REACTIONARIES FAVOURED. Wednesday. A Correspondent at Shanghai says that Sun-chia- nai, a friend of the Emperor, has been restored to favour, and appointed President of the Board of Rites in the Han-lin Academy. Wang Wen-shao, formerly Assistant; Grand Secretary, and one of the leaders of the Chinese, as opposed to the Manchu Party, has been appointed Grand Secretary. Li-chuan-Liti and two other reactionary officials have also been promoted.

PERSONAL. The engagement is announced of the Duke of Westminster to Miss Shelagh Cornwallis-West, daughter of Colonel and Mrs Cornwallis-West, of Ruthin Castle, Denbighshire. The Duchess of Albany left The Hague on Satur- day night for Potsdam. Queen Wilhelmina and her mother took leave of her at the station. During her stay in the Netherlands capital all the members of the English Legation were invited by the Queen to meet her Royal Highness at dinner. The latest report of the condition of Sir Dighton Probyn, who fell in alghting from a train recently, is much more favourable. Mr Fripp, the Prince of Wales's surgeon, went specially to Sandringham on Saturday, and on Sunday made an examination, which showed that the patient was making good progress. All anxiety respecting him is at an end, but complete convalescence will be a matter of time. The laceration of the muscles of the thigh and the fact that no bones were brokeu were disclosed by the application of the ltontgen rays. The city of Rochester will confer its Freedom upon Viscount Cranborne, the new Under Secre- tary for Foreign Affairs, its member, on January 2. The Central News learns that a marriage recently took place between the Earl of Wemyss and Miss Grace Blackburn, daughter of the late Major Blackburn and niece of the late Lord Blackburn. Lord and Lady Wemyss are staying at Abbey Leix with Lord and Lady De Vesci. General Sir Redvers Buller entered last week upon his 62nd year. His military career began on May 23, 1858, when he was appointed an ensign in the 60th Foot (King's Royal Rifles). Lord and Lady Tweedmouth entertained ,to dinner on Saturday night at Brook-street, Park Lane, London, the officert3 of the Canadian contin- gent at present visiting England. The Marquis and Marchioness of Londonderry, were among those present. Mi Rudyard Kipling left Southampton on Saturday for South Africa. A marriage will shortly take place between the Rev Frederick Sullivan, eldest son of Sir Francis Sullivan, and the Hon Judith Harbord, daughter of Lord Suffield, and one of the Queen's maids of honour. Her Majesty (the Westminster Gazette remarks) always presents the bride in that case with £ 1,000. Lord Curzon will shortly unveil a statue to the Marquess of Lansdown, which has just been erected at Calcutta. Sir Spencer Ponsonby Fane, whilst driving from Brympton to Yeovil on Monday was, with his coachman, thrown out of his carriage, which came into collision with a coal waggon. Sir Spencer sustained a fractured elbow and was much shaken, and the coachman had his shoulder dislocated. The Duke of Beaufort, to the surprise of his neighbours and tenants, has (says the St James' Gazette) decided to sell his Monmouthshire seat, t.he celebrated Troy House, together with the ruins of Monmouth Castle, which has come down to him from John of Gaunt. Sir Robert Baxter Llewelyn and Lady Llewelyn have left London for Grenada Sir Robert was recently appointed Governor of the Windward Islands, but this is not his first experience of West Indian administration. He filled various posts in Tobago, St. Vincent, St. Lncia, and Jamaica before being appointed Administrator of the Gambia, from which post he has been promoted. Mr Balfour is going to Scotland after the session for a few weeks of rest and quiet, and he will have a small family party during the Christmas holidays at VVtiittinghame House, Haddingtonshire. Mr Baifour will pay a visit to Lord and Lady Elcho at Stan way House, Gloucestershire, before ho goes north. Sir Donald and Lady Currie have arrived in town from Garth Castle, Perthshire, and will probably proceed next month on a cruise in the Mediter- ranean in their yacht. It is understood that Sir Donald Currie's name is to be included in the batch of new peers which is expected on Now Year's Day. The Czar continues to gain strength, and has a very good appetite. Orders have just beeu issued to have the Imperial train in readinesg to leave the Crimea on the 28th inst. It is therefore supposed that the return of the Imperial family to St Peters- burg will take place in the beginning of January. It is rumoured that Lord Llaugattock will be nominated for the presidency of the National Union of Conservative and Constitutional Associations ab the annual Conference of that body. to be held in London next week. The retiring president is the Marquis of Zetland. The American Ambassador had an interview with Lord Salisbury last week, at which he is said to have conveyed an invitation from the President of the United States to the Duke and Duchess of York to pay a visit to that country after they leave Canada. Viscountess Castlereagh, wife of Lord London- derry's only son, gave birth to a daughter on Thursday evening. Mother and child are going on well. The Rev John Bullock, M.A., formerly head master of St. Oswald's College, Ellesmere, has availed himself of the provisions of the Clerical Disabilities Removal Act of 1870. Major H D Archdale, 1st lioyal Welsh Fusileers, who is now in South Africa, has been promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel, a.nd appointed to the command of the 2nd Lincolnshire Regiment in India. Col Archdale commanded his old battalion for some time after the death of Colonel Thorold. Earl Russell was co-respondent in the Divorce Court on Tlleday in the petition presented by Mr C J Somerville. Mrs Somerville left her home and was married to Earl Russell in America. The jury returned a verdict for an agreed sum as damages R1500, and Sir F Jeune granted a degree uisi, directing the amount to be paid into Court within a fcxtuight.

PARLIAMENTARY. SOUTtI AFRICAN PROGRAMME. Friday. The debate on the Address was resumed. Mr Chamberlain said there were three main and principal objects of the, Government, and they must be carried out successively. In the first place they wanted to put an end to the guerrilla warfare which was now in progress in South Africa, r.nd which I was bringing the country face to face with the possibiiityof something like a famine. In this connection he explained the bearing of Lord Roberts's proclamations on the subject of the burning of farms, the amnesty of prisoners, and the deportation of women, contending that the war was being waged by the British on humane principles. When the pacification of the country had beeu accomplished, the first object of the Government would be to get rid of the military administration. But before self-government could be given there must be an intermediate stage, which, for the sake of giving it a name, they would call Crown Colony government. They hoped very shortly, before the House met again, that some- thing in the nature of A CIVIL ADMIXISTRATIOX might have been established both in the Transvaal and the Orange River Colony. As to the general lines of this administration the Government would recommend the Queen to appoint Sir A Milner as Governor of the two colouies-a Lieutenant Governor would be appointed for the Orange River Colony,—with the assistance of an Executive Council, to consist, at all events, of the principal officers of the Government. The constitution of the Orange River Colony would not necessarily be the same as that of the. Transvaal, either at the start or in the immediate future. It was possible that an earlier beginning of greater political liberty might be made in the Orange River Colony than in the Transvaal. They had in view also the earliest possible creation of municipalities for Pretoria, Bloenifontein, Johannesburg, and probably for some other centres, which wouid receive all the poweis usually delegated to local authorities. In conclusion he stated that they had under considera- tion the promulgation of a proclamation in South Africa indicating the intentions of the Govern- ruent. F AM IL Y APPOIN T M E N T MONDAY. TJ: debate on the Address in reply to the Queen's Speech was resumed. Mr Bartlev moved au ameudmout expressing regret at the action of the Prime Minister in recommending the appoint- ment of so many of his own family to offices in the Government as being- "calculated to diminish the responsibility of Her Majesty's Ministers to Par- liament and gravely to impair the efficiency of the public service." The amendment having been formally seconded by Air Schwann, Mr Balfour pointed ont that there was but one member of the present Government connected with Lord Salisbury whn waR not in tI" In&t GOVl?rllmellt, and co:t- tended that, attacks of thin sort, if made at all, should be made not upon a principle of selection, but upon tho individuals selected. If any uf those selected were uafis for office it was a matter for legitimate criticism. If they were fit, the aocideut of birth ought to be no bar to their having office. The country in entrusting to Lord Salisbury the task of forming an Administration had done so with a knowledge of him ranging back to 1885. That decision, if it meant anything, meant that the country reposed confidence not only in his integrity, which no man doubted, but in his ability to cany out his task. Mr J B Roberts and Mr T G Bowles also took part in the discussion. On a division the amendment was defeated by 230 votes to 128 MINISTERS AND CONTRACTS. Mr LLtyd-Goorge moved an amendment declaring that Ministers of the Crown and members of both Houses of Parliament holding subordinate office, ought to have no interest, direct or indirect, in any firm or company competing for contracts with the Crown, unless the nature and extent of such interest had been first declared and had been sanctioned by Her Majesty, and such precautions taken as would effectually prevent any suspicion of influence or favouritism in the allocation of such contracts. He drew attention to Mr Chamberlain's con- nection with companies supplying munitions and material of war, and maintained that while the state of things disclosed was not corrupt it was entirely improper. Mr Soames seconded the amendment, which was supported by Mr Hobson, while Colonel Milward defended the Colonial Secre- tary. Mr Chamberlain said be felt it to be hard, after twenty-five years' Parliamentary service, that he bad to stand up and explain to his colleagues that he was not a thief and a scoundrel. There had been a conspiracy of insinuation that he bad made a corrupt use of his political and official position in or- 5 der to benefit himself or his family. Members who made these insinuations might be relieved from legal responsibility but they were not relieved from moral responsibility. He criticised the language of the amendment as vague and loose; and asked who under it could be a Minister of the Crown ? He was a shareholder in only two of the companies mentioned, and after explain- ing his interest in them he declared that the pro- ceedings taken in this matter were calculated to lower the character of the House of Commons but that they did not injure him. Air Austen Cham- berlain, who followed, said he had nothing to be ashamed of in his connection with the companies referred to. The debate was continued by, among others, Mr Haldane and Sir H Campbell-Bauner- man, who supported the amendment, and Mr Balfour, who opposed it. On a division being taken there was a majority of 142 against the amend- ment. BEER POISONING OUTBREAK. TUESDAY, In the House of Commons in reply to Sir Cuth- bert Quilter, Mr Balfour said that the Local Government Board had from the first outbreak of the epidemic of arsenical beer' poisoning bad the- matter under observation. Circulars were being issued to local authorities recommending them to take samples of beer and other articles in which glucose and other substances were used to be analysed. SUPPLEMENTARY ESTIMATE, In Committee of Supply Mr Brodrick introduced the supplementary estimate of X16,000,000 for additional expenditure due to the war in South Africa and to affairs in China. He admitted that the expectations of those responsible for the estimate of the probable cost of the war in South Africa had been disappointed. They had been too sanguine. The same number of troops practically were there now as in the July quarter, and the same quantity of supplies was being shipped week by week. The strength of our forces could not im- mediately be decreased, and we must look forward until the 31st of March next to an expenditure little short of that which had been incurred during the whole of th3 present vear. Of the total sum of £ 16,000,000 required, 1700,00-0 was for China, £ 1.000,000 was for the new police force in South Africa, about £1,000,000 was far railways-ob- viously a reproductive expenditure,—and the re- mainder was for the provision of the supplies necessary for the prosecution of the war. The charge for the police would to a large extent fall on the colonies when the colonial revenue began to come in, and the question as to the incidence of the charge for railway repairs would have to be settled later. Conscious as the Government were of the strain that had been imposed on the Volunteers, and aware as they were of their desire to return home, they must for the present ask them to make a further sacrifice in remaining at the posts which they had undertaken to fill. He trusted that before the House met in February he might be able to give much more satisfactory assurances as to the position than he was able to give now. THE WAR VOTE. Wednesday. In the House of Commons the vote of £16000"000 for war purposes came up for discussion on the report stage. Sir It Reid opened the debate by a speech in which he contended that the time had now come for negotiation with the Boers, and for offering them terms-terms not inconsistent with British dominion, for the new territories must remain a part of the British dominions, inasmuch us the people of this country would not listen to proposals for undoing the annexation. Mr Bryce expressed his agreement with Sir R Reid's views, and asserted that Sir Alfred Milner had become the object of distrust to one half at least of Her Majesty's subjects in Cape Colony. Mr Brodrick, in reply, denied that Sir A Milner was distrusted by any except those Dutch at the Cape who were enemies of the Queen. Ou the general question of terms he said that the Government were anxious to bring the guerilla warfare as rapidly as possible to an end. If there were any arrangements in the nature of following on in the spirit of Lord Roberts's proclamations which could give more confidence to those who were asked to surrender, the Govern- ment were willing to make such provisions as might be necessary, provided that they were not to t e interpreted as a proof of weektiess, and thus lead to a prolongation of the war. The report was agreed to. On the report of the Committee of Ways and Means Sir M Hicks-Beach again ex. pressed his view that a considerable proportion of the cost of the war should be obtained from the Transvaal, and stated that the Government had already appointed a Commission to investigate the assets of that country. YEOMANRY SERVICE. Thursday. In the House of Commons, Mr Brodrick said the Government were acting on the advice of Lord Roberts in not withdrawing the troops as present, and he could hold out not hope that the war would be over before the end of the vear.

LLAN FYLLIN. THE RECTOS.—Much satisfaction was felt in Llanfyllin when it became known that the respected Rector, the Rev Thomas Jones had decided not to accept the living of Chirk, wilch had been offered to him by the Bishop of St Asaph. The following petition, which was taken round for signature bv Messrs R H Jones and Edward Davies, was pre- sented to Mr Jones :—" Rev and dear Sir,—We, the undersigned, having heard that the Bishop has made you an offer of another living, beg most respectfully that yon will not sever your connection with this parish. The amicable relations existing between you and your parishioners of all nenomi. natio is, and the large congregations which atteud the Church services, testify to the esteem in which you are held. The interest you have always taken in the improvement of the condition of the poor, and your active encouragement of education and all matters, having for their object the temporal and spiritual welfare of your parishioners, are highly appreciated. In conclusion we earnestly hope that you will give this petition, which, had time per- mitted, would have been much more numerously signed, your favourable consideration." The petition was signed by 542 parishioners. BOARD OF GUARDIANS. The monthly meeting of the above body was held on Thursday, when Mr David Evans, of Guils- field, presided over a numerous attendance of Guardians. MISCELLANEOUS. On the application of the Master the Board decided that the inmates should have their usual Christmas dinner.—It being reported that the Earl I or rowis had caused 15 pneasants to be sent for consumption by the inmates, a vote of thanks was accorded his lordship.—Two applications were ¡ received from Guilsfield for boarded-out children. Mr Kempster drew attention to the fact that most, of the boarded-out children were in the Guilsfield parish. Hu would like to see the children spread over the U nion.-Tüe Master said there were now six boys in the House eligible for boarding-out. MR BIRCHAM'S REPORT. Mr F T Bircharr, Local Government Board In- apector visited the House on the 11th inst. He found the beds, bedding and dormitories all clean and heard no complaints from any inmates. Going through the sick wards he had practical proof of the need for better ventilation and light. This could only be obtained by changing the present iron-framed windows for wooden sash windows. Some lockers should be obtained for each of these wards. For the old and infirm he thought that flock beds were in most, cases preferable to straw. Some smaH wicker armchairs were needed for the nursery children. He drew the attention of the Guardians to the wash-house and laundry, which should in his opinion be re-arranged. Thev were very objectionable and he thought if the Guardians were to visit this place on a washing day and dur- ing wet or damp weather they would agree with him, and engage a competent person to advise them on the matter. He wished to mention that the Guardians had no power to detain a vagrant longer than the morning of the second day after ad mission, unless he had been admitted on more than one occasion during one month. It was only this latter class who could be detained three whole days. There was a case that day when a vagrant had absconded who had a red ticket (i e., detention for three whole days) but who had not been admitted twice that month. He should recommend no steps being taken to apprehend that person or he might have the best of the law. It was most essential that strict adherence to the Act be main- tained.—The question of altering the windows was referred to a committee.—A similar course was taken in regard to the wash-house and laundry, Captain Mytton remarking that the former was a miserable place and a blot on the institution." -The Guardians agreed to procure half-a-dozen wicker chairs, but did not see the necessity of obtaining the lockers suggested.—It was agreed to obtain half-a-dozen flock beds for use in the sick wards. THE TANAT VALLEY LIGH? RAILWAY. OPPOSITION ABANDONED. On Saturday afternoon a special meeting of the Llaofyllin Town Council was held to consider the proposal to oppose the application of the Tanat Valley Light Railway Company for an Order authorising the extension of time for the comple- tion of the work, and the raising of further capital. The Mayor, Mr J Pentyrch Williams presided, and there were present Aldermen Ellis Roberts, C R Jones, and Robert Jones, Councillors W A Pughe, Jos. Roberts, E LloJd Edwards, T B Jones, R Evans and R M Lewis, with Mr W A Pughe, town clerk, and Mr T Edwards, assistant clerk. The Mayor said the committee appointed by the Council to consider the proposed opposition bad gone into the matter, but they thought it advisable that all the members of the Council should discuss it. The Town Clerk explained that the application was made by the Tanat Valley Light Railway Company for a further extension of time of five years, and also for a very large increase of capital. They applied for power to ask from the Liverpool Corporation £10,000 instead of £ 2,000, from the County Council of Salop £ 3,000 instead of £ 2,000, from the County Council of Denbigh £ 4,500 instead' of X3,000, from the Montgomery County Council £3,750 instead of E2,500, from the Oswestry Cor- poration X4,500 instead of £ 3,000, from the Llan. fyllin Rural District Council £ 4,500 instead of L,3,000, and from the Llansilin Rural District Coun- cil S4,500 instead of £ 3,000. The original Treasury grant was £ 18,500, and the Company now wished to apply for C34,750, being an additional sum of 916,250. Beyond that the Company asked for power to double their working capital and to raise it from 915,000 to £ 30,000. At the time the Tanat Valley scheme was before the Light Railway Com- missioners Llanfyllin had a rival scheme, but the Tanat Valley Company succeeded in obtaining aa Order based upon their estimate of the probable cost of making the railway. But it now turned out that the estimate was not as much as it ought to havebet!n by cne-half, and therefore it was sug- gested that the grounds on which they obtained the Order were unfair, unreasonable, and delusive. There were two courses open to the Town Council to oppose the application, which. of course, would mean some expense, or simply to ask the Commis- sioners to refuse any further grant. The Ex-mayor (Alderman J Marshall Dugdale) wrote strongly objecting to any further money being spent, unless some new and unexpected reason were shown why they were likely to sucked now, although they failed before. Alderman C R Jones said he felt very strongly opposed to any action being taken against the promoters of the Tanat Valley Railway unless there were some grounds—strong and legitimate grounds —to go upon, which would. lead them to helieve that they would succeed. Unless they had some scheme to put in the place of the Tanat Valley scheme, they would be very much in the position of the dog in the manger. Thev should remember that they would also be fighting against the Cam- brian Railways Company, who had got all the machinery ready, and had undertaken to work the line. The Cambrian Railways Company had made the working of the line part of their scheme, and incorporated it, and he should be sorry to act in antagonism to the Cambrian Railways Company by opposing the Tanat Valley scheme. Councillor W A Pughe said as far as he could see, if the Tanat Valley scheme were carried through, it would mean the loss of some trade and damage to that town, and if they let that opportu- nity slip they would probably not have the chance agaie. For his part he thought it certainly advis- &ble to taka steps in the matter and to oppose that scheme as much as possible. Alderman R Jones said he had thought much about that matter since the meeting of the com- mittee, and having discussed it with a great many people, he thought the unanimous opinion was that the best thing they could do was to let the matter drop. He was at first very much in favour of moving in the matter, but he did not now see what they were going to gain. Councillor R Evans said he thought they would be acting in antagonism to the interests of the town ¡ if they spent more money upon that scheme. Alderman Eiiis Roberts said that, he saw no pros- pect of their opposition succeeding. The question was, whether ii was wise for them in the face of the IlWll1iU1úUQ desire of their neighbours in the Llanrhaiadr Valley to take steps in opposing the scheme. Ilis opinion was that it would be better to be passive, and to allow the various bodies to consider the tciieme on its merits. Councillor E Llovd Edwards said he thought it would be futile for them to oppose the request made by the promoters of the Tauat Valley scheme. For his part, he never thought the promoters of the Tanat Valley Railway would succeed in making the line. They were in a pretty hot. shop, and his opinion was that it would end in a pretty little picnic and another pretty sod cutting, at which perhaps, some of those present would be invited to enjoy themselves again (laughter). He and other people believed that that scheme would never be a success, but if they gave the promtoers rope erictilh I they would hang themselves. That was his opinion "rid lie was not going to trouble himself about in that unpleasant operation daughter). Council'or T B Jones said he wished it to be I ch ar.y unaerstood that he had no intention of mov- ing that they oppose the scheme (hear, hear.) He Minpiv thought, if it were the unanimons decision I of the council that such steps should be taken, that now was the opportunity. He, thought, therefore, I no ratepayers would find fanltwith him forintroduc- ing the question, for they would not be doing their duty to the ratepayers if they allowed theopportunitv to p s without taking note of it. He was not antg- onistic to the Tanat Valley scheme, but the interests of bis own locality, of his own town and parish, were rearer his heart than those of the parishes through which the Tanat alley Rail way would run. He, was raii.ei surprised to hear the remarks of Alderman C R Jones, who said they had DO alternative scheme. The Clerk had told them that there were two schemes before the Commis- sioners, and the other scheme was theirs, so that there was an alternative scheme, which, in bis opinion, still stood. lb should not like to insinuate that Alderman C R Jones had any interest in tha locality, but, perhaps, lis was lucky enough-more lucky than some of them—to be favoured with land. He thought it their duty to consider their own dis- trict. first, and cot the places on the Oewestry and I Llangynog route. As to Alderman R Jones's remark that they would get the Llangynog people on their heads, he thought it was their duty to con- sider the interests of those who sent them to repre- sent them, and by supporting the Tanat Valley scheme he did not think they would be doing their duty to their own people. He simply brought the matter forward for discussion, and as the majority of the mem tiers present were not deposed to take any action, lie would not move anything. Alderman C R Jones explained that he did not say there was no alternative scheme, but that the Llanfyllin scheme was dropped as far as they were concerned. They had no capital, and were not prepared to go on with the line. He was glad the matter had been discussed so fully and consider- ately by the Council, and he would now move- That, in the opinion of the Council it i not advisable that we should take any further steps to oppose the application of the Tanat Valiey Light Railway Company." The Mayor said lie was glad to have heard the voice of the members of the Council, who were in many cases tradespeople in the town. They were all agreed that if the Tanat Valley scheme were carried through it would ao harm to Llanfyllin, and they had been told that they in Llanfyllin had a scheme. He could not see why they could not get money again in case the Tanat Valley scheme fell through, from the different localities in the same way that it had been got for the Tanat Valley Railway. However, it seemed to be the prevailing opinion that they should not move further in the matter. Councillor Paghe moved, as an amendment, that they oppose the application. The amendment was not seconded, and the motion was put and carried. COUNTY PRTTY SESSIONS.—FRIDAY. Before Messrs C R Jones, J Lomax, and W Arthur Pughe. The Chief Constable (Mr Holland) was also present. DISMISSED.—A.S. Price charged John Morris with being drunk on licensed premises, and Mrs J Ham- mond with permitting drunkenness. Mr W Iorwerth Rowland, Llanfyllin, appeared for the defence.—P.C. Tudor, Llaasantffraid, said he was in charge at Llanfechain on November 17th, and on visiting the Piasyndinaa Inn at five minutes to ten he saw Morris sitting in a chair asleep and help- lesslv drunk. He called Mrs Hammond'sattention to him.—Cross-examined He was satisfied that the man was drunk and not in a fit. He never heard that twelve months ago the man had an accident.— Thomas Jones, Penypark, said he saw Morris fall as coming from the kitchen. He did not know why he fell, and he could not say whether he was drunk or sc,ber.-By P.S. Price He could not say that he was drunk, because he did not see him having any beer or anything else. He appeared to him as if there was something more wrong with him than drunkenness. David Jones, labourer, Llanfechain, said he walked into the house after P.C. Tudor. He could not tell whether Morris was drunk or sober. He noticed that there was something the matter with him.- The Deputy Chief Constable handed in a list show- ing several convictions since 1888, the last on May 29.—Mr Rowland, iu opening the case for the defence, handed in a certificate from Dr Fred Jones as to Morris' state of health.—John Morris, Bwlcby- cibau, examined by Mr Rowland, said he called at the inn about eight o'clock and asked Mrs Ham- mond if something had been left there for him. He asked for a glass of beer. He sat talking for some time, and then had another glass. He had no more. Another man offered him a pint, and he refused it. He felt something coming over him and he went to the chair. Afterwards he remembered nothing until he came to himself by tthe schoolroom. With reference to the accident, he said his head was cut about a year ago, when he was with the machine, and the horse ran away. Dr Jones stitched the wound for him. On another occasion a tree fell on him, and he had three ribs broken. He was often troubled with bis head.—Thomas Jones, butcher, Bwlchycibau, knew Morris had had fits.-By P.S. Price: Morris was not unconscious when he was taken out of the inn, but very funny. — Mrs Hammond said when Morris came in about 7 30 she thought him sober. He was rational, and talked and joked with the others in the house. She supplied him with two glasses of ale, one when he came in and one later. She did not notice any- thing. He got excited once or twice while arguing. She did not see him fall. As they lifted him to the chair the police constable walked in. They tried to shake him. It was outside that the constable spoke to her. She noticed froth about Morris's month, and he appeared to be quite helpless. She could make nothing of him. She bad heard from the general conversation in the house that Morris was subject to fits. She had known him for years She had been warned not to serve him if there were any signs of beer about him. She did not notice any such signs about him.—Replying to Mr C R Jones, witness said she had refused him several times. That night she told him and another man that he should have no more. They were nrguing and she was afraid it would end in a qua,rrel.-The Chairman (Mr C R Jones), said the evidence in this case was very conflicting, and though the Bench were not quite of one mind they were prepared to give him the benefit of the doubt, and dismiss the caAe.-The announcement was received with some applause in court, which was at once sileticed.-Tiie charge agaiust, Mrs Hammond was withdrawn.

LLANFAIR. FOOTBALL CLUB.—Tiie first meeting in con- nection with the Ciub was held at the old County School on Wednesday, under the auspices of the Social Club. Mr J H Evans presided, and a very good number of footballers were present. Mr C A Teape was unanimously elected president, and the following gentleman will be approached with view to their becoming vice-presideuts Lord Ed St. Mawr, the Rev W Jones, Messrs J C Hilton, C E Humphreys, R Humphreys, Tom Jones, and C S Teape. The Executive Committee consists of Messrs J H Evans, Richard Rowlands and the officers. Subscriptions will be gratefully received by the honorary secretaries, Mr D T Astley and Mr E Lambert Jones. SCHOOL BOARD.—WEDNESDAY. Present: Messrs J LIOj-d Peate, chairman, C W Humphreys, J C Jones, Graig, with Air W Lloyd Pierce, headmaster, and Mr W Story, clerk. REPAIRS. Repairs were directed to be carried out at both Llaufair and Rhiwlnriarth Schools. CHRISTJIAS HOLIDAYS. It was agreed to break up the schools for the Christmas holidays on Friday, December 21st, to re-open on Monday, January 7th. LLWYNGWYN FOOTPATH. Complaints were ma.de ou account of the condi- tion of the Llanfair end of the Llwyngwyn footpath, and the Clerk stated that the roadmen were under urcteriJ to put it in repair. VOTK OF CONDOLEXCE. The Chairman moved, and Mr J C Junes seconded, a resolution expressive of regret at the death of Mr John Jehu, and old member of the Board, and of condolence with Mrs Jehu and the two sons, in their bereavement.—The vote was passed in silence, al! the members standing, BY-LAWS. In connection with the revision of the by-laws, the following letter, dated Dec 11, 1900, was read from the Board of Education :—"Sir,—I am to in- form you that your Board is at liberty r:-t"s,A the maximum age to which the by-laws apply without altering the standards of exemption, or to raise the s:aadards while retaining the present age t) which the by-laws apply. I am to add, however, tt at the Board of Education strongly urges your B ard to adopt the higher age in the new by- laws. This will not impose any new obligation as to attendance at school in the case of chi'dren between 13 and 14; such attendance is already obligatory under the provisions of the E:ementary Education Act 1876. It merely simplifies the law by bringing the attendance of all children between five and fourteen under the operation of the by laws, instead of such attendance being regalated as now partly by the bv-iaws and partly by the Act of 1876." It was unanimously agreed toasceitain the views of tiie education authorities in the adjoining parishes on the question prior to moving any further in the matter. DEATH OF 11R. JOHN JEHU, C.C., J.P. It is with deep regret we record the death of Mr John Jehu, of Brynavon, Llanfair, who nassed away suddenly on Wednesday, the 12th inst, at the age of 66. For the last two years the deceased gentle- man's heahh had been failing and a year ago his condition was very critical, bnt up to Wednesday morning Mr Jehu was able to get out and take a littie interest in his many duties, henc-e his demise came as a very great shock to Llanfair and district, and the sincerest sympathy is extended to his widow and two sons who are lefr, to mourn his loss. Mr Jehu was a public man in the true sense of the word, he having taken a lively interest in matters religions, social, educa- tional, and political. He was a deacon in the Calvinistic Church, a magistrate since 1894, a mem- ber of the ^Intermediate School Governors, and of the Local Governing Body, a County Councillor since the institution of County Council, and it can be said quite impartially that" he acqait- ed himself in all these departments conscientiously. Only recently Mr Jehu had been made to- recioieut of an illuminated address by the Lower Montgomery- shire Monthly Meeting on the cccnsW of his resigning the treasurership of the C.M. Foreign Missions, owing to bad health. On this particular occasion it was pointed out what a staunch supporter of missions Mr Jehu had been, and how he and his family were always to the front in deeds of charity. Llanfair basiruffered two heavy losses this vear bv the deaths of Mr Theodore and Mr Jehu- whose in terest in the welfare of the town was unbounded, and it is to be hoped that others will rise up to carry on the good work began and continued by them. The Calviuist Church has sustained an irreparable loss, for Mr Jehu was a veritable tower snd strength not solely that he contributed hand- somely to the various funds, but rather his example to old and young was such an excellent one. His integrity, sincerity and the absence of the desire to injure others were acknowledged by all who knew him, and those who had not the priveiege of intimate acquaintanceship held the deceased in the highest respect and esteem. Like Enoch Arden, Mr Jehu, fully appreciated the value of a good education and it must hare afforded him the greatest possible satisfaction to have his son Dr Jehu, so successfully passing his examinations. As a magistrate, Air Jehu earned the reputation of being a gentleman thoroughly altguizant of the importance of his duties, and whose justice was ever tempered with discreet mercy. The funeral will be a public one, and will take place on Monday next at one p.m., and a memorial meeting at 6 p.m. in the C.M. Chapel. We are asked to state that conveyances will meet the 11 o'clock trains at Welshpool on that day, and also that there are to be no flowers.

ABERY STWYTH. BANKRUPTCY COURT.—TCESDAT. Before Mr Registrar Joseph Daviea. A BORTH BUILDER'S AFFAIRS.—The Official Re- ceiver, Mr Thomas, of Carmarthen, continued his enquiry into the affairs of Thomas Evan Williams, builder, of Borth, whose examination wns adjourned from the last court in order that particulars of cash transactions with the debtor's father-in-law should be furnished. The gross liabilities of the estate were £1.023 15s 5d and there was a deficiency of S625 odd. Mr A J Hughes appeared for the debtor and the only creditor present was Mr J Oliver, Newtown, representing the Park Brick and Tile Company, of that place.—Mr A J Hughes said that at last Court there were some extravagant statements made as to the cost of the house.—The Official Receiver: Oh yes; Is Mr Rowe here to- day ?—Mr Hnghes I have not seen him, but the statement made was very extravagant and totally unfounded as regards the cost of Mr Williams's father-in-law's house. And the inference anyone reading the report would draw, would be that un- due advantage had been given to the father-in-law to the detriment of the creditors. Since then the bankrupt has made a statement founded upon actual measurements based upon current prices and the total amount of the cost is L373 7s. You also required a statement showing how the amount of mortgage was arrived at. I have here a state- ment which I put in aud which can be verified by the bank books.—The Official Receiver Is this statement showing how C350 mortgage was paid by Capt David Jones to you correct?—Bankrupt Yes.—Mr A J Hughes: Here is another statement showing how the sums were paid by Captain David Jones for the other two houses which can also be verified by the bank books. With regard to the mortgage, Capt David Jones took a mortgage for X300 in May, which I prepared. Subsequently there was a further advance on equitable mortgage of R50, and his position would be a mortgage for L350.-The Official Receiver: Is that bo ?-Mr Hnghes: It is a matter for you to consider.— The Official Receiver: Does he seriously put that for- ward P-Mr Hughes Uh, yes; not ou ly seriously but rationally. There was no mortgage deed signed. If a person advances money on a first mort- gage and subsequently to that obtains advances upon the same terms, although verbal, he is in the same position as regards £ 50 as he is to the X300. —The Registrar: Is there any wriring ?-The Official Receiver: None whatever!—Mr Hugbes: I submit that it is not a question of writing; it is only a question of fact. I can substantiate the fact, and I submit he had a right to tack." Writing would be nothing more than better evidence of the agreement. We also became RESPONSIBLE AT THE BANK for 9200. We do not seek to claim a mortgage in respect to L200, but I think we can prove that Capt Jones lent that £ 50 on mortgage.—The Official Receiver: Are there any particulars of the losses on contracts ?—Mr Hughes said they were unable to provide them.—The Official Receiver in going through the statement submitted having discovered that a sum of £ 200 received on August 28th, was not accounted for, and a sum of 2.35 from Mr John Jones, which debtor said went towards paying wages, but, which was not entered as a receipt. The Official Receiver remarked that bankrupt did not appear to have taken much trouble with his accounts. The f35 from John Jones was for pipes, &e. He paid Mr D C Roberts zC40 because he was pressing and threaten. ing proceedings.—The Official Receiver: You owed other people money. Why choose Mr Roberts be. fore Messrs Durban & Co ?' Because they were not pressing.—Why did you not pay the other people? I could not.—And yet you paid Mr Roberts ? It was in August or September and under great pres- sure.—The Registrar You did not include the Newtown Brick and Tile Company in your list of creditors. The total claim is zC24 odd. I did not know of it.—The Official Receiver: But you knew that you owed them some money ? I cannot tell you.- lvby did you leave them out alt-)gether ? I did not remember at the mioute.-flave yon not represented to Hannan, Watson, and Hearre that your father and brothers were partners ? Never.- The Official Receiver asked if it, was true that the workmen were using the goods at Wellington Villa which bankrupt said were sold for JE55 ? No; the men did not touch them, but other things I left there.- -Will yonr men come forward and say that they never went for the things sold to Capt Jones ? Y es.- Mr A J Hughes To the best of your belief the bank books account for all the moneys received ? Yee.-In addition to the j6350 on mortgage, has your father-in-law also paid you over L200 ? Yes, to help me.—The examination was then closed, but the debtor was directed to claim six bags of cement which belonged to the estate aud were now held by someone else.-Tlie Park Brick and Tile Company were directed to send iu proof of claim to the Official Receiver at Carmarthen.

Mr.CHAS. P. CURTLS/V (Harvard University, U.S.A.), American Specialist FROM 3 O A SET. Head Office and Laboratory N' V^BELGRAVE PLACE, SALOP ROAD y OSWESTRY. Attends on Market Dava at WELSHPOOL, 26. SEVERN STREET 7 (Opposite Red Lion Inn). NEW TOWN, CROSS 7 (c/o Jones, G-rocer.| CONSULTATIONS AND ESTIMATES Fa,E.