Welsh Newspapers
Search 15 million Welsh newspaper articles
9 articles on this Page
"TOWN AND TRADE."
"TOWN AND TRADE." Welshpool Tradesman's Critical Hints. A Bracing Speech. The Use of the Town's Hall- Not the least interesting speech at the recent supper of Welshpool railwaymen came from Mr Alfred Jones (Hall-street), in acknowledging the toast of the Town and trade of Welshpool." He threw out suggestions to increase the amount of busi- ness done in the modern capital of Powys- land. x In the first place (said he) you have to increase the purchasing power of the dis- trict which deals with you. I venture to assert that the purchasing power of the Welshpool district has become very much less during the past 25 years. If you make enquiries in the rural districts which are served by our town you will find that the POPULATION HAS GONE DOWN very considerably in that period, and that not owing to the fact that there are no mar- riages and births taking place, or that death causes the havoc, but entirely due to migration. All evidence goes to prove that this movement is townward, and these people from around us go to the cities and enter into competition with the city-bred weaklings, who are ousted out of employ- ment, and thus help to make the unem- ployed problem more acute. Now, it must be clear to all of us that, if 1.001) or more people have gone out of the Welshpool market area, the town and trade of Welsh- pool must suffer to a very considerable ex- tent. What is the cause of this migration ? The only cause of rural depopulation is the power of the landowner to refuse to let his land in as many cases as he likes, and to exact too high a rent in many other cases. In every parish you can hear of small farms which have been added to adjoining farms, the landlord doing so in some cases because it is less trouble to let the two farms to one person. Or it may be the landlord lives far above his means, spend- ing more than his rent-roll on luxurious liv- ing, and his agent is compelled by circum- stances to reduce the estate expenditure for the time being by neglecting to keep the property in a fit and proper state of repair, with the result that the tenant can put up with it no longer, and removes frum the district. The house becomes a wreck, the land is let to the neighbouring farmer, who has not sufficient capital to farm it pro- perly, and you have the result of one family getting a living where two families existed before. This has happened, not in a few cases, but in scores upon scores of instances around here. People are very anxious to have small farms, as can easily be seen by the large number who apply for any farm of from 20 to 50 acres which becomes vacant, or by the number of suitable persons who have applied to the COUNTY COUNCIL FOR SMALL HOLDINGS under the recent Act. The competition for small farms is so great that their value is more than double those of greater extent. Notwithstanding that, these small holdings of from 25 to 5u acres are made to pay, and pay well, owing, of course, to the fact'that it is of a size which admits of intensive cul- ture and generally suits the capital of the tenant. Nothing would add more to the prosperity of this town than the re-estab- lishment of a large number of small hold- ings within our market area. True, as one local landowner stated, there are a large number of small holdings, but there are also a good number of large farms, the ten- ants of which would, no doubt, do very much better if they had less ground and looked after that more efficiently. Under more intensive culture it is admitted that the land can be made to produce double its present yield in many coses. This would be truly creating wealth, and we here would be partially benefited by the in- crease. We have been hoping that the Montgomery County Council would have established many of the small holding ap- plicants before this, as nearly two years have elapsed since some of the applications were sent in. We are beginning to think that they are not in earnest in the matter or they would move more quickly. I be- lieve they arc letting land at Arddleen to a few people. if it takes our County Council two year establish three or four how many years will it take them to estab- lish those who have applied ? They will have to adopt some quicker method, or the millenium will overtake them, or possibly Wvf ma,y h&ve a German invasion, and we shall have the German trying their peasant proprietyship schemes on the Montgomery- shire people (laughter and applause). There is another point which I would like to emphasise, and that is that the TRADESPEOPLE OF THE TOWN SHOULD SEE that their prices, the quality of goods, and their trading methods are such that they will command the support of the purchasing public (hear, hear). We have heard many complaints that the wealthier people of this district, and certain professional gentlemen and landowners are in the habit of purchas- ing their commodities in distant towns J\ow, this is not as it should be. There are many of these gentlemen who glory in British patriotism when that means re- sponding to the country's call to arms, but ,er Patriotism which they can exhibit with less cost to themselves, a ser- V1Cf A ey ow? to their neighbours, and that is by making their purchases at their neighbours' shops, and thus circulat- in% Cal i lrhmediate neighbourhood, and thereby helping to give employment to those who are engaged in the distributing trade of this district and by so helping others they will be helping themselves, for bj assisting in making this district a pros- perous and thriving one. they will stand a better chance of bwing their rents paid on rent day. What he reason for trading afield? Is it possit hat they have been bitten or had by e WTelshpool trades- man with a smack ( .e Jewish extortioner about him? (laugh: I. We must see that our prices are right, our goods are right, our business conduct is right, and eventually these patriotic gentlemen may favour us with another trial order. I firmly believe that if they lay themselves out to do it, WELSHPOOL TRADESMEN CAN COMPETE with any tradesmen in the United King- dom, and the more support they get the better will they be able to treat their clients. We have referred to the trade development of the town. There is another development we should pay greater attention to and that is our moral and intellectual development, something to add to the welfare and happi- ness of the people, that they may be made more contented citizens. We should like if the Town Council would give sympathetic help to all movements which aim at provis- ion of enjoyment, or the betterment in any way or by any means of the people of this iown. Some of us who have interested our- selves in various societies, which aim at improvement, cannot shut our eyes to the fact. that the splendid suite of rooms en- closed within the walls of the Town Hall could be made much better use of than they are at present. We consider that our mu- nicipal buildings should be the centre of Social and intellectual life, as they are in the large towns and cities. Why could there not be in connection with our library and reading room a commodious, well-fittecl smoke-room or lounge ? Why could we not place a room at the disposal of the town for a young men's club, with billiards and other games, a club which would be inde- pendent of any political party or any relig- ious sect, where all could meet together on a common basis ? Our Council provide the cattle with fitting accommodation in the smithfield they provide the hens and chickens with accommodation in the hall, where thev can cackle as much as they like (laughter) f Couldn't they provide rooms also WHERE MEN COULD MEET ? Then ,again, with regard to the Town Hall suite of rooms, when they are applied for, for any philanthropic or intellectual im- provement meeting, or anything else for the benefit of the ratepayers, they appear to be following the sample of other landlords in getting as much rent as they can, and be following the sample of other landlords in getting as much rent as they can, and not in taking as little as they can afford to, and so by this method they succeed in pre- venting gatherings being held in the com- mon hall. It should be the duty of the Council to encourage the holdings of meet- ings in the Town Hall. Only recently, I un- derstand, a public meeting of young men was held, at which it was decided to organ- ise Saturday evening concerts for the work- ing people. The organisation of these con- certs would have meant a great amount of sacrifice of time and money on the part of some persons. They decided to apply for the use of the Corn Exchange in which to hold them. One would have thought that this would have been let at a nominal charge, and that the Council would have been delighted to think that they had ml their town young men who were willing to make sacrifices to entertain the inhabit- ants. But no! They put the prohibitive charge of £1 for the use of the rooms, which nipped the project in the bud, which, I pre- sume, was the desire of the Council's ma- jority. And so, gentlemen, this laudable effort to provide you with innocent amuse- ment- and recreation on Saturday evenings was upset. Now, WE APPEAL to our Mayor and our councillors to give all the help that is in their power to all movements which tend to improve the minds and habits of the inhabitants of this town, and by so doing they will help to make us all happier, more contented, and better fitted to carry out those duties which we as good citizens are expected to perform (cheers). Twelve months ago we had occa- sion to refer to the action of the Town Council in a matter connected with the Powysland Mills. We are glad to know that the matter then in dispute is now set- tled, that the mills are now taken, and that shortly the work of clacie kid manufacture will be proceeded with. I am sure we all unite in wishing Mr Macdonald—who is now our fellow-townsman—every success in this new venture, and trust that before long the present premises will be too small, and that we shall find him extending the buildings (applause).
MONTGOMERY COUNTY COUNCIL…
MONTGOMERY COUNTY COUNCIL ELECTIONS. Likely Fight for a Tory Majority. Only Four Gains Required. Three years ago the Tories required to win six Liberal seats to place them in* a bare majority on the County Council. For this purpose they made an attack upon 19 Lib- eral divisions, but were successful only in three,—Aberhafesp, Llanerfyl, and Meifod— while the Liberals assailed three Tory seats, and won Llandysilio, where Mr Edward Hughes Roberts displaced Mr Noel P. Turner by the small majority of two. Thus the Tories scored two net gains. On this occasion they need but four net gains to secure control, and it goes without saying that a determined effort will be made to accom- plish this. At last election the disclosure of the Tory attack came at the eleventh hour, and it is to be hoped that the Liberals will not be caught napping again. On the contrary, we believe a large number of Tory seats will be fought, and flushed by their Parliamentary victory in the County, Non- conformists are hopeful of increasing their present majority on the Council. Polling day has been fixed for Saturday, March 5th. Of the fourteen aldermen, the follow- ing retire at this time:—Messrs R. Andrew, Manafon Matthew Davies, Llanwnog John Jones, Varchoel J. Hamer Jones, Bettws J. Pryce Jones, Welshpool John Rees, Llansaintffraid and J. B. Willans, Dolforgan. Mr Martin Woosnam, solicitor, Newtown, will be the returning officer. Below we give the results of the 22 con- tested elections in 1907, together with the results for 1904 :— I ABERHAFESP. 1907. C. W. Norton (C) 136 David Hamer (L) 121 Tory majority 15 1904-D. Hamer (L), 130 W. Scott Owen (C), 110 Liberal majority, 20. BERRIEW. 1907. A. E. Humphreys-Owen (L) 193 Capt. W. Corbett-Winder (C) 159 Liberal majority. 34 1904-A. E. Humphreys-Owen unopposed. CARNO. 1907. P. Wilson Jones (L) 187 A. E. Hughes (C) 54 Liberal majority. 133 1904-F. V. Ashton (L) ,unopposed. 1909—Bye-election, Llewelyn Humphreys (L) defeated John Breeze (C) by seven. 4 CEMMAES. 1907. William Jones (L) 160 F. J. Walton (C) 106 Liberal majority 54 1904-M. E. Francis (L), unopposed. CHURCHSTOKE. 1907. W. P. Jones (C), unopposed. 1904-W. P. Jones (C) unopposed. DAROWEN. 1907. Thomas Jones (L) 142 Matthew Henry Evans (C) 49 Liberal majority. 93 1904-W. Edwards (L) 118 Rev Robert Pryce (C), 54 Libral majority, 64. DEYTHEUR. 1907. E. S. Perrott (C) 102 Edward S. Evans (L) 66 Tory majority. 36 1904-George Kempster unopposed. FORDEN. 1907. P. Hurlbutt (C) 69 Thomas Rogers (L) 47 Tory majority 22 1904-Hugh Harrison (C), 56 David Rogers (L), 50 Tory majority, 6. GUILSFIELD. 1907. Capt. D. H. Mytton (C), unopposed. 1904-Capt. D. H. Mytton (C), unopposed. ISYGARREG. 1907. Evan Roberts (L) 68 F. M. Campbell (C) 35 Liberal majority 33 1904-Evan Roberts (L), 67 F. M. Camp- bell (C), 42 Liberal majority, 25. KERRY. ) 1907. J. E. Poundley unopposed. 1 1904-J. E. Poundley (C), 134 Richard Morgan (L), 131 Tory majority, 3. LEIGHTON. 1907. Arthur Vaughan (C), unopposed. 1904-Johii Nay lor (C) 147 John Turner (L), 48 Tory majority, 99. LLANBRYNMAIR. 1907. Daniel Howell (L), unopposed. 1904-Daniel Howell (L), 153 Edward Jones (C), 46 Liberal majority, 107. LLANDYSILIO. 1907. E. Hughes Roberts (L) 124 Noel Price Turner (C) 122 Liberal majority. 2 1904—Thomas Pryce (C), unopposed. LLANDYSSIL. 1907. R. E. Jones (C), unopposed. 1904—R. E. Jones (C), unopposed. LLANERFYL. 1907. W. Forrester Addie (C) 167 Evan Williams (L) 149 Tory majority 18 1904—D. Hughes (L), 156 W. F. Addie (C), 137 Liberal majority, 19. LLANF AIR-(Brynelin). 1907. Maurice Evans (L) 88 David Jehu (C) 60 Liberal majority. 28 1904—M. Evans (L), 100 Thomas Jones (C), 40 Liberal majority, 60. LLANFAIR (Rhiwhiriaeth). 1907. J. Lloyd Peate(L). 135 J. Matthew Howell (C) 56 Liberal majority. 79 1904—Dr Humphreys (L), 161 A. E. Hughes (C), 33 Liberal majority, 128. LLANFECHAIN. 1907. R. O. Perrott (C), unopposed. 1504—R. O. Perrot (C), 134 John Rees (L), 122 Tory majority, 12. LLANFIHANGEL AND LLANGYNIEW. 1907. Robert Griffiths (L) 97 Fred Proudlove(C). 87 Liberal majority 10 1904-R. Griffiths (L), 127 Rev J. R, Roberts (C), 71 Liberal majority, 56. LLANFYLLIN. 1907. John Lomax (C), unopposed. 1904-J. Lomax (C). 171 E. Lloyd Ed- wards (L), 140 Tory majority, 31. LLANGURIG. 1907. J. W. Godfrey Bowen (L). 125 J. R, Pryse (C) 113 Liberal majority. 12 1904-J. W. Godfrey Bowen (L), 130 J. R. Pryse (C), 101 Liberal majority, 29. LLANGYNOG. 1907. Evan Edwards (L) 133 Rev John Jenkins Menlove (C) 92 Liberal majority. 14 1904-J. Thompson Williams (L), unop- posed. LLANIDLOES (EAST WARD). 1907. William Ashton (L) 177 A. L. Onslow (C) 65 Liberal majority. 112 1904-W. Ashton (L), unopposed. LLANIDLOES (WEST WARD). 1907. Edward Bowen (L) 189 John Davies (C) 78 Liberal majority Ill 1904-Edward Bowen (L), unopposed. LLANIDLOES (WITHOUT). 1907. R. D. Edwards (L) 128 Col. J. Davies-Jenkins (C). 51 Liberal majority. 77 1904-R. D. Edwards (L) unopposed. LLANWNOG. 1907. Richard Jones (L) 168 Evan Jones (C) 102 Liberal majority. 66 1904—R. Jones (L), 132 Evan Jones (C), 115 Liberal majority, 17. LLANDINAM. 1907. Edward Jones (L), unopposed. 1904-Edward Jones (L), unopposed. MACHYNLLETH. 1907. Richard Rees (L) 244 Lord H. Vane-Tempest (C) 200 Liberal majority. 44 1904-Richard Rees (L), unopposed. MEIFOD. 1907. A. W. Williams-Wynn (C) 146 Morris D. Morris (L) 122 Tory majority 24 1904-J. Morris (L), 139; A. W. Williams- Wynn (C), 119 Liberal majority, 20. MONTGOMERY. 1907. Francis Langford (C), unopposed. ,r 1904-F. Langford (C), 133 E. R. James (L), 56 Tory majority, 77. NEWTOWN. T 1907. Hugh Lewis (L), C. J. Newell (L), Richard Lloyd (L), and Colonel Pryce-Jones (C), unopposed. 1904-C. J. Newell (L), 160 John Green (C), 133; Liberal majority, 27. 1904-Hugh Lewis (L), 165 Samuel Powell (L), 114 Liberal majority, 51. t> 1901~^E- Pryce-Jones (C), 149; Rev T. E. Williams (L), 134 Tory majority, 15. 1904-(Newtown No. 4), Rd. Lloyd (L), un- opposed. PENNANT. 1907. Ebenezer Pugh (L), unopposed. 1904-Ebenezer Pugh (L), unopposed. TREFEGLWYS. 1907. David Jones (L), unopposed. 1904-David Jones (L), unopposed. TREGYNON. 1907. Evan Lewis (L) 92 W. Scott Owen (C) 67 Liberal majority 25 1904-Evan Lewis (L), unopposed. WELSHPOOL. 1907. The Earl of Powis, Charles Shuker, William Humphreys, and Ed. Green unoposed. All Conservatives. .1904—Earl of Powis, Charles Shuker, and C. E. Howell, unopposed. In the Guilsfield Ward, Edward Green (C) defeated J. Pryce Jones (L), by 196 to 107. <
Fined 3s.
Fined 3s. WHEN "IT'S A GOOD DEAL TO PAY." Parents who withdraw their children from school just before reaching the age of 14, had a warning from the Llanidloes Borough Bench last Thursday, when a fine of 3s was imposed in what was described as a rather hard case." Referring to the son-14 years of age yesterday —of Edward Jones, a miner, living in Church- street, Attendance Officer Jones said that in January he had made no attendances out of a possible 28; in December 12 out of a possible 36. From June to November he attended 108 out of 196. Defendant unfortunately had not got a woman in the house, added witness. The Education Authority thought it was rather a hard case, but considered they could not exempt it-it was not their duty to consider the circumstances of th« parent, but they were in sympathy with Mr Jones very much, and did not wish to press the case. The Mayor: What's the reason, Jones, this child has not been senc to school ? Defendant. I have FOUR AT HOME, AND No ONE to look after them but myself, He is the eldest, and I have to work to get a living. He has turned 14 since the holidays and he has passed the 6th standard. If I could send him I wouldn't keep him any day at home. The Attendance Officer: The other three do very well. Defendant: The other three get prizes every year! It was holiday at Christmas, and as he would be 14 after it, I thought it hardly worth the while to send him for three weeks. The Mayor (with whom were Alderman Edward Davies and Mr E. R. Horsfall Turner) While we sympathize with you in your position, we feel we cannot be doing our duty unless we imposed a fine upon you. We have decided to impose a small fine of 3s in this case. Otherwise people will think they are right to take children out before they are 14. Defendant: It's a good deal for me to pay-15 weeksoutofwork and only working eight days, and pay 3s. The Mayor: We will allow you time, but you are bound to pay. Defendant: I have no money.
The Departure of Mr. C. S.…
The Departure of Mr. C. S. Denniss. Mr C. S. Denniss terminated his appointment as general manager of the Cambrian Railways last week, and has taken up the important position of general manager of the Bute Docks at Cardiff in succession to Sir W. T. Lewis, resigned. Mr Denniss was appointed general manager of the Cambrian Railways in 1895. Mr Denniss under- took a considerable re-organisation in several departments of the service, and one of the first matters that demanded his attention was the improvement of the permanent way, a work which was begun before the lamentable accident at Welshampton which broke the remarkable record held by the Company of never having lost the life of a passenger travelling in one of its trains. Another great work was the re-building of Barmouth Bridge. Great advances have been made in ambulance work, thanks to the initiative and the encouragement given by Mr Denniss.
PLOOGHING AT LLANDINAM.
PLOOGHING AT LLANDINAM. The weather did not merely permit, but it actually smiled upon the ploughing matches which were held on the Pwllan fields, Llandinam, on Wednesday, in con- nection with the Llanidloes District Asso ciation. There was a splendid gathering on the field, and thanks to the excellent or- ganization of a painstaking and methodical secretary, who was found in the person of Mr W. Savage, Glanfeinion. All the events passed off without a hitch. The committee were also a business-like set of men, over whom Mr C. T. Hamer, Pwllan, presided. The president this year was Mr David Davies, M.P., who, unfortunately, was un- able to put in an appearance, either at the match or the luncheon, owing to a business engagement at Barry, whither he had gone in his fleet car before the first sod in the ploughing match had been cut. Farmers present averred without hesita- tion that it was the best competition in ploughing that they had ever seen in the district. A great deal of interest was cen- tred upon W. H. Cullan, the professional ploughman from Stony Stratford. His plot looked absolutely flawless after his last journey, and he was awarded the first prize and cup in the champion class. It was decidedly satisfactory to note that out of 17 entries on the catalogue, sixteen competed. Some excellent work was witnessed in the plashing and ditching competitions. The open competition was won by a local name- sake of the Chancellor. The judges were unstinted in their praises of the splendid class of horse's shown. Year by year the ploughing matches are becom- ing 'more and more a horse show. The following acted as judges to the gen- eral satisfaction :-Ploughing: Messrs Wm. Rees, Penygaer, Bettws, and E. Andrew, Belandeg, Manafon. Hedging and ditching: Messrs David Hamer, The Lane, Tregynon, and Alfred Andrew, Glyn, Bettws. Horses: Messrs C. S. Williams, Mellington, and T. E. Kinsey, Winsbury, Chirbury. Shoeing: Mr William Millington, Smithy, Buttington. Best turnout-out pair: Mr T. P. Francis, Tymawr, Caersws. The following gentlemen did duty as stewards :—Messrs E. Hughes, Tynyrwtra, E. Evans, Gwernerin, Malcolm Kinsey, Maes- mawr, James Davies, Dolhafren, Daniel Richards, Tynymaen, E. p. Kinsey, Red House, J. Williams, Bontnewydd-fach, R. Davies, Gwernerin. D. H. Hughes, Craigy- don, D. Lloyd, Gorn, T. E. Davies, Bodaioch Hall, R. T. Evans, Tyddyn, S. Jones, Gwas- tadcoed, and E. B. Rowlands, Talbot. The prize-winners are as follows:— PLOUGHING. Open—1 W. H. Cullen, Deanshanger, Stony Stratford, 2 Richard Jones, Victoria- square, Llanidloes. Open to those who have not won an open prize—1 John Davies, Bronhaulwen, Llanid- loes, 2 J. Lloyd, Brynpostig, Llanidloes, 3 E. E .Williams, Bwlchyllyn, Trefeglwys. To bona-fide workers on farms—1 R. E. Davies, Pwllglas, Trefeglwys, 2 Edward Cor- field, Llandinam Hall 3 John Lewis, Red House, Trefeglwys, 4 Thomas Griffiths, Hornby, Llandinam, 5 Edward Lewis, Gwernego, Llangurig.. Workers on farms (under 21 years)—1 John Woosnam, Llwynybrain, Caersws, 2 David J. Williams, Glyn, Llandinam, 3 Thomas Trow, Tynyrwtra, Llandinam. Special Prize-Class 2, John Davies. Class 3,R. E. Davies. Best ploughman with Corbett plough, John Woosnam. HEDGING, Open—1 R. Lloyd George, Penybank, Llandinam, 2 John Brunt, Tyshwt, Llawry- glyn. To bona-fide workers on farms—1 D. T. Evans, Gilfach, Llandinam, 2 David Mills, Oakley Park, Llanidloes, 3 Richard Davies, Cwmelus, Llanwnog, 4 Daniel Roberts, Wern, Llandinam. Workers on farms (under 21)—1 Edward M. Jones, Dolgwenith, Oakley Park, Llanid- loes, 2 David Edwards, Plasaudion, Llanwnog. HORSES. Agricultural Colt or Gelding foaled in 1908 -1 Evan P. Davies, Red House, Caersws, 2 Robert Jones, Argoed, Trefeglwys, r Abraham Woosnam, Llwynybrain, Caersws. Agricultural Colt or Filly foaled in 1907- 1 D. M. Chapman, Morfodion, Llanidloes, 2 David Evans, Tyddyn, Llandinam, r Richards Griffiths, Ffinnant, Llandinam. Brood Mare for agricultural purposes (special prize)—1 Daniel Richards, Tyny- maen, Llandinam, 2 David Lloyd, Gorn, Llanidloes, 3 D. M. Chapman, Morfodion, r Abraham Woosnam, Llwynybrain. Brood mare, 16 hands or under (special prize)—1 John Davies, Rhydfaes, Llandinam, 2 C. T. Hamer, Pwllan, Llandinam. Pair of horses ploughing—1 Abraham Woosnam, Llwynybrain, 2 D. M. Chapman, Morfodion, r Evan P. Davies, Red House. For the best gelding ploughing (special)- 1 David Davies, M.P., 2 D. M. Woosnam, Morfodion. Most neatly groomed and harnessed pair -1 William Jones, Red House, Caersws, 2 William Meredith, Pwllglas, Trefeglwys, 3 Edward Corfield, Llandinam Hall. SHOEING. 1 Richard Morris, Upper Green, Llanid- loes, 2 Edward Williams, Upper Green, Llanidloes. THE DINNER. At the close of the judging an excellent dinner was provided at the Lion Hoted by host Rees, when about fifty sat down. After doing ample justice to the fare pro- vided, the Chairman asked the company to charge their glasses, and the toasts would be submitted to them. The toast of the King, Queen, and Royal Family" was submitted by the Chairman, who remarked that his Majesty took a deep interest in agriculture, and was himself a very successful exhibitor. Mr T. Kinsey, in submitting the toast of the Bishop, Clergy, and Ministers of all denominations, remarked that he did not know why he had been asked to submit that toast, as he did not think he had ever done much to help the spiritual life of the district. At the same time, he had great pleasure in submitting the toast. The spiritual wants of the people in the dis- trict were well looked after, and always had been, and it was very gratifying to think that another young vicar had recently ar- rived,-(laughter)-and he trusted he would follow in his father's footsteps. He hoped that the same harmony as at present would always exist between the different churches in the district. FINE WORK. The toast of the Llanidloes District Ploughing Matches Association," coupled with the name of Mr Meddins, was sub- mitted by Mr S. E. Corbett. He congra- tulated the Society on its almost attaining to manhood (it is now in its 19th year). He had been in the field that day looking. at the ploughing and hedging,—he would say nothing about the horses-and he considered it a credit to the district that they had men who could turn out such fine work (ap- plause). He had often heard it remarked over the border that i you wanted a good horse, go to Montgomeryshire, and it was equally true that if they wanted a good ploughman or hedger, they could go to Montgomeryshire for them. He urged the farmers to bring up their sons and their men and teach them properly. He had been visiting the district for about 18 years, and the men who were at the plough then were judges now. He again congratulated the Society on its flourishing condition. Many societies of the kind went on all right for a feij years, and then faded away, but he was glad to see this was not the case there. He hoped they were flourishing financially.(A voice, Grand.")—He was glad to hear that, and had much pleasure in submitting the toast. Mr John Meddins, Cwmllwydion, in re- sponding, said he had been connected with the Association since the commencement, but he did not think they had ever seen better work than that day (applause). He thought he was a pretty good ploughman at home, but when he came to the field and saw the work there-well, he could not un- derstand it! (laughter). He thought they could congratulate themselves that they were doing so well in comparison with other districts. He was very glad to find that the horses had done so well, too, and that the funds were in a satisfactory state. They could not hope to exist long without funds. A POPULAR PRESIDENT. The toast of the "President" (Mr David Davies, M.P.) was submitted by Mr David Lloyd, Gorn, Llanidloes. He said it did not need any words from him to commend the toast to their approval. To secure Mr Davies' patronage to any association of that kind was to ensure it with success, and he considered they were exceedingly lucky to have succeeded in getting him to become president. They had to come to Llandinam for one to represent the county. He did not think they would get into much diffi- culty with Mr Davies to back them up. He need not enlarge upon his generosity, it was too well known, and without more words he would ask them to drink his very good health. The toast was warmly received with mu- sical honours and cheers, a voice calling for One for his intended," which was heartily given. The toast of the "Judges" was submitted by Mr Breeze, of Henfryn, who wished it had been put in better hands. But he felt sure it would be well received. Still there was one reason for his submitting that toast, and that was that he was not a com- petitor that day, so he could scold or praise the judges just as he liked (laughed). The success of all competitions depended on the judges. If you had good judges, you had plenty of competition, but with poor judges competitors were a bit shy. They had had excellent judges that day, and thorough practical men—men who had followed the plough, men who had worked the mittens and hillock, and men who had been brought up amongst stock (applause). SIZE AND SUBSTANCE WANTED. Mr Kinsey (Chirbury), in responding, said it had given him great" pleasure to act as one of the judges. He had shown stock a good deal in the district, and had won a good number of prizes. He congratulated the Society on its solid basis, and thought that if they could only pull together for another year or two, until they came of age, nothing would shift it, not even any Gov- ernment, much less the poor old House of Lords (loud laughter). The point they had to look to was to go in for the best and breed from the best sires. The horses that day had been a very useful lot, and nearly all quite sound, but he thought they were not quite so big nor so heavy in bone and substance as they used to be, and, after all, they wanted some size. He congratulated the committee on securing such a fine sire for the coming season, a son of the famous Lockings King," and his breeding was bound to have good effects. He advised them to stick to the old cart horse. Motor cars would never take their place, much less flying machines (laughter). The brood mare class had been a very strong one, and they had great difficulty in placing them. If they had made any mistakes that day, they had made them unknowingly, and had acted without favour or affection for anyone (applause). GOOD FEET AND JOINTS. Mr Williams, who judged the horses with Mr Kinsey, stated that he was very glad to be present. He had been an exhibitor since he was 15 years of age. He consid- ered that these little shows did a lot of good, and fostered friendly feeling. He advised them to make a point of keeping the right stamp of horses. Very often they saw great big horses which were of no use whatever. Montgomeryshire horses were famed all over England and America. He thought the horses might have been a little bigger, but they knew what suited best,, and perhaps bigger horses would not suit the country so well as the ones they had at present. The main thing was to get good feet and joints. This was required for street work, where most horses eventually went if they had not good feet, they very soon began to step a bit short. He advised them to start right at the bottom, or they would never have a good one. The brood mare class had been very good. They had no difficulty in award- ing the first prize, but it was hard to decide second and third. He thanked them for the kind way they had received the toast. A PROMISING YOUTH. Mr E. Andrews (judging ploughing) said he was very pleased to be there that day and to see such excellent work. The Asso- ciation was noted for excellent ploughmen and hedgers, and he considered they had seen excellent work that day. The judges had great difficulty in coming to a decision. In the ploughing matches the champion class had been very good, and the same ap- plied all through. In the class for boys the work of the winner was outstanding, and he was an exceedingly promising plough- man, and he would come right in front be- fore long. He thought associations of that kind did a great deal to keep the best men on the land. They heard of large numbers of young men going to the colleges for training these days, but he thought they would benefit much more if they worked under a good practical farmer who knew his work. EXCELLENT HEDGING. Mr Andrew (ditching) said he was very flattered in being asked to come and judge the ditching. He met a great number of old friends. The committee had done very wisely in keeping the judges away from the competitions until they were finished. For himself, he had spent the time looking at the ploughmen and at the Chairman's house, and he found that he kept a very good glass of beer (laughter). It had been both enjoy- ment and instruction to watch the plough- men, but he thought there was far too much shifting of wheels and other parts: and they did not expect that from real good plough- men. When they came to judge the hedg- iing, they found it no better than they ex- pected. He had heard of the fame of the hedgers of that district, but considering the hedge they had to work on and the ma- terials, the work was very good, indeed, if not altogether excellent. In the champion class of three they had very good work, especially the winner, and in the next class, with eight or nine competitors, 'they had to take their time to decide the winner. They found it on the whole an excellent class. but the ditches might have been firmer, but no doubt the conditions would not allow of this. The boys' class was excellent, with only two not good. Some of them would have done- very well in the bailiffs' class, or even in the first class. Mr Hamer had nothing to add to what his colleague had said, but he felt the re- sponsibiljty in coming to Llandinam. as it was noted in many ways. In the champion hedging class the second and third were not good, but he had been informed they were not local men, and they had better try in the second class next time. Mr Breeze (judge) said he had much pleas- ure in being with them. He thought the best ditching had been done by a boy, and he noticed that in the boys' class one or two had started very well, but fell off after- wards. FARMERS AND THE CHILDREN. Mr Edward Andrew submitted the toast of the Successful competitors," coupled with the name of Mr A. Woosnam. He said they must have good competition before they could get on much, competitors who took a deep interest in the Association- and entered in a good many classes. He was pleased to see Mr Woosnam there. He had always been a good competitor, and had a son following in his footsteps-a worthy son of a worthy father. Mr Woosnam, in responding, said he was not much of a speaker, except at home f (laughter). It was sixteen years since he competed first, and he was successful then. t He had shown a good deal since then, and had been pretty successful, or rather lucky. He had been out of the district for twelve years, but was glad to be back again amongst them, and he intended to compete in some things as long as he could. He thought it was their duty as farmers to bring their children up as well as they could, and -get them to take an interest in their work. He was very satisfied with the judging that day. He trusted they would all be good losers as well as good winners. Mr Richards (Rhiw) submitted the toast of Kindred Societies." He wished the Powis and the central associations every success. He was glad to learn that the Powis was flourishing financially, but was sorry to learn that the central was not so good. He advised these societies to ap- point really good collectors, as they found that this had largely been the means of raising the funds of the Llanidloes Asso- ciation. He hoped they would continue to uphold the good name of Montgomeryshire. Mr A. Andrew, in responding, said he thought these societies helped to keep peo- ple on the land by giving them something to look forward to and strive for, and this was a great thing in these days, when so many country people were filling the towns. He though they might take Mr Richards' advice with regard to collectors, as there were many people who liked to be asked, and had a will to give. The Llanidloes As- sociation were lucky in having Mr David Davies' support, but he was glad to inform them that he also assisted the other asso- ciations (applause). THE VISITORS." Mr E. Kinsey (Red House) submitted the toast of Our Visitors," coupled with the name of Mr Corbett. He said it was a pleasure to see so many visitors there that day, and they helped the gate to a very large extent. He was glad to welcome Mr Corbett, who had been in their midst for several years now, as well as other makers of machinery and implements. Mr Corbett, in responding, thanked them for the way they had received the toast. He was glad to have seen the work on the field, and also the horses. He was very pleased to know the owner of the estate was so well known, and that he took such an interest in their society. He was sorry he was not present with them on that occasion. "A GOOD FEEDER." Mr J. H. Edwards (Trefeglwys) submitted the toast of the Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, and Committee." He remarked that the officers and committee had done their work splendidly. The Chairman had kindly lent them a field, and he had sup- plied a very good lunch. He had been there himself and had a good feed, and he did not eat any small bit when he started (laughter). He thought Mr Hamer had made a great mistake in asking him (re- newed laughter). He knew the Secretary and Treasurer and other officers had also done their work with every credit. Mr Hamer, in responding, said it had given him much pleasure to let them have his field that day, especially under the new arrangement. In past years the poor farmer who lyld his field ploughed at the match found he had more work cleaning up than if he ploughed the whole field himself, but that day they had a clean job. Still he thought there was one point they ought to look to, and that was that the men after they have gone over the first cop should not then go back and place it with their hands or throw the clods away. That was wasting time. He also thought they ought to also cover one furrow and not two, as then they would have 20 to 24 inches of land never touched. He had been pleased to do what he had done, and would be glad to have them on another occasion. Mr R. P. Griffiths (vice-chairman) stated that owing to the way the Chairman, Secre- tary, and Treasurer had worked, the task of the committee had been a very light one. Mr Edwards, of Trefeglwys, before leaving the room, asked to be allowed to support the Chairman in what he had said with re- gard to the men laying the first clods with their hands. He considered this should not be allowed, and they should do all the ploughing themselves, and not have friends measuring and continually advising them. He also thought that the time limit should be enforced. The Chairman then submitted the toast of the Host and Hostess (Mr H. E. Rees and Miss Rees), which was responded to by Mr George Morgan on behalf of Mr Rees. During the evening songs were given by Messrs A. Andrew, G. More, and fcr. Morgan.
Mr. Stafford Price-Davies.
Mr. Stafford Price-Davies. A FORDEN GUARDIAN'S CONFESSION. Mr Stafford Price Davies, Marrington Hall, told the Forden Board of Guardians last Wednes- day that on the morrow he was taking Mrs Price- Davies abroad for the benefit of health. He con- tradicted a rumour that he did not intend stand- ing as a guardian again. If the ratepayers allowed him, he hoped to have the pleasure of sitting on the Board for many years to come (applause). Mr Price Davies added that he did not know for what reason he was supposed not to be going to stand again. It might have been sometimes in his case, as he daresay in the case of other members ot any public body that he went home from a meeting where things had not gone rightly or the way one thought they should. Other people had thought different, and one said, Tm sick of the thing!" He had wished the thing one way and the others had wished it much stronger the other way, and had conquered him. He thought it was very annoying, but still it was alright next time (laughter). At the instance of Mr A. E. Bond, seconded by Mr Morgan Jones, the Board accorded a vote of thanks for past services to Mr Price-Davies, and the Chairman (Mr William Pritchard) wished him a very pleasant journey.
WELSHPOOL COUNTY SESSIONS.
WELSHPOOL COUNTY SESSIONS. On Monday the above Sessions were held in ihe Town Hall, Welshpool, when the Bench consisted of Colonel Twyford (presiding), Mr Shuker, Dr Thomas, and Mr David Jones. D.C.C. Williams presented his report on the licensed houses in the country district, from which it appeared that eight licenses were granted at the last licensing sessions, three being six day and four seven days licenses. The conduct of the houses had been satisfactory. All the licenses were renewed. A case of assault, Hopkins v. Pryce, was adjourned to the next Court. ASSAULT ON A WOMAN. Mr Martin Woosnam, Newtown, appeared for Mrs Emma Jones, The Beeches, Meifod, who charged Thomas Evans, Yew Tree, Meifod, with the assault. Mrs Emma Jones sqid she was the wife of Robert Jones, an employee of the County Council. There has been some bad feeling between defend- ant and her family. It arose through some pigs of defendant's trespassing on her land, which she put into a building, On the 3rd of November she saw Mr Evans by her house taking sticks from their wood pile. They were windfalls which she had picked up on defendant's land. He took two burdens of them, throwing them over the hedge on to his land. It was about SRven o'clock in the morning. She went up to him and asked him what was he doing. He thereupon rushed up to her and caught her by the throat, and shook his fist in her tace. He said, I will d- well skin you, in a minute." Her two little boys were with her at the time. Cross-examined by defendant (who several times in the course of the evidence tried to interrupt) Where did you get the sticks from ?—From your field. Defendant then gave way to an outburst of temper, and detailed an account of his grievances imaginary or otherwise. The police constable attempt. d to quieten him, but ho was in such indignation that nothing would keep him quiet. Mr Woosnam then called up Ellis, the com- plainant's SOD, who said he was aged 13 and in the fifth standard. On the 3rd November, at about seven in the morning, he was with his mother and saw defendant. By Col. Twyford: How did you see? Was it dayiight? -It was middling light. Defendant came up to his mother and said that he would skin her in a few minutes. His mother asked him what he was doing, as he was carrying sticks from their wood pile and throwing them over the hedge. By defendant: Did your mother say if Robert (meaning her husband) was here, he would tear me in bits ?-No, she did not. Again, the pent up feelings of this outraged gentleman burst forth thus-" You young rip; you young rascal. I'll give you telliag them things here. You were told to tell the truth. The Clerk admonished defendant and told him to be quiet. Why, he is telling lies right before my face," again he shouted, the while shaking his fist at the trembling boy, adding, I'll give it thee, me lad." Mr Woosnam (interposing) Your worships can easily see the temper the defendant is blessed with. He has said enough to justify us in bringing an action for libel against him. Witness's brother corroborated the evidence of the two previous witnesses. Defendant himself then gave evidence. He said: This concern has rose up through their nastiness. Jones got me to lug his hay for him, and then when I'd finished mine he came round the building and asked if he could help. The mean underhanded (defendant here was at a loss for words). My pigs got on their field, and they at once run 'em with a pikel and a broom into the road. My wife went for 'em, and they wouldn't let her go through their yard. Mrs Jones took the sticks from our field, so I went and fetched 'em back. I caught her by the blouse or else she would have taken the sticks again." The Bench consulted, and Colonel Twyford said: We have nothing to do with the ownership of the wood. All we have to deal with is the fact that you seized the woman. You must not touch, any womin at all, good or bad. You will have to pay the costs and keep the peace." l'urning to complainant: You, too, will have to be bound over to keep the peace with defendant." The Clerk then bound them over in the sum of iilO for twelve months.
Newtown County School Governors.
Newtown County School Governors. On Wednesday the bi-monthly meeting of the above was held at the school, when Dr. F. P. Wilson presided over the Rev T. E. Williams, Mr Richard Jones, Mr T. A. Forster, and Mr W. Scott Owen, who were attended by the Clerk (Mr Martin Woosnam) and the Assistant Clerk (Mr Turner). CORRESPONDENCE. A letter was read from the Higher Education Committee with regard to the Governors' claims to fees on behalf of the pupil teachers who attended the schools. The original agreement with the Committee was that the pupil teachers would be allowed to attend the school and the Committee pay X7 per annum for their tuition. They now wanted the fees to be reduced to X5 5s per annum. On the recommeudation of the Rev T. R. Williams, seconded by Mr Forster, the teachers in future are to be allowed to enter the school at a fee of X5 5s per teacher. APPOINTMENT or TEACHER. Miss Davies, girls' headmistress, wrote to the. effect that Miss E. F. Williams left the school at Christmas, and has been appointed on the staff of the Chester County and City Secondary School for Girls. In her place she has appointed Miss H. Jones, B.A. (Wales). She has gained 1st class honours in French, with a first-olass certificate in practical teaching. She is also a competent teaoher of Welsh, and comes with excellent testi- monials from Aberystwyth College. The Governors approved of Miss Davies. choice. SALARY OF TEACHER. Miss Davies also communicated with the managers in regard to a promise they made last year to increase the salary of Miss Harvey. She asked that her salary be increased by the sum of £ 10 Mr Forster proposed, and the Rev T. E. Williams seconded, that her salaiy be increased by the amount specified, and it was carried. BURSARIES. Miss Davies, in a letter, applied for a bursary in respect of Selina May Lewis, who, she nid, was a most promising pupil and was at the head of her form last year. The Clerk said the letter was dated Tuesday. and they ought, in matters financial at any rate, to have time to go over these carefully.-This matter was deferred to the next meeting. DATES OF MEETING. Rev T. E. Williams put forward a proposition that the meeting of the Governors be held in future on the second Fliday in the month at the same hour, and this was carried without dissent.
TREFEGLWYS.
TREFEGLWYS. IMPORTANT NOTICE.—A. H. Bennett, Draper, Caersws, attends room adjoining Red Lion Hotel, Trefeglwys, EVERT WEDNESDAY, from 12 till 6, with a good assortment ot General Drapery Goeda^ at lowest town prices for ca i.