The Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Times

LLAN15IIYX.MAIII CHAPEL! DISPUTE. THE WnIT SERVED. R FROM A SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT.] The impression had gone abroad that Mrs Seymour Davies, whose action in connection with the Calvinistic Methodist Chapel, Llanbrynmair, a few months ago created such a storm in Welsh circles, had abandoned the idea of attempting to turn out the congregation worshipping in Bont Chapel, especially as she had been made to understand that she would have to deal, not with the Llanbrynmair people only, but with the whole force of the Calvinistic Methodists a body strong both in numbers and in wealth. However, it appears that Mrs Davies has made up her mind to fight out the case to the bitter end, and the case promises to be interesting, not only to Welsh Nonconformists, but also as an impetus to the passing of the Chapel Sites Bill. The Rev. Dr. Herber Evans, in his excellent speech delivered from the chair of the Congrega- tional Union, referred in scathing words to the persecution endured by the Llanbrynmair people in this case, and the effect the recital of the circumstances had on the vast audience of the City Temple was most telling. The history of the case, told in a few words, is as follows :-The first Calvinistic Methodist chapel at Llanbrynmair was built in 1767, on land belonging to Mrs Seymour Davies' -ancestors, on a lease for 99 years. In the year 1859 Mrs Sevmour Davies renewed that lease for another 99 yearn, so that there are still 66 years unexpired. The property Consists of a chapel, two cottages, a stable, and an acre of land. Everything went on smoothly up to a. twelvemonth ago, when the church decided to rebuild the chapel and build a minister's house. —After the plans had been prepared and some jgSOO promised towards the building fund, Mrs Davies, through her solicitor, sent a letter for- bidding them to proceed with the work. The reason given for this order was that by her settlement she had no power to grant a lease for a longer period than 21 years. This was the first intimation the church received of these con- ditions in the marriage settlement. Perhaps Mrs Seymour Davies is able to offer a satisfactory explanation why she withheld this information for such a length of time. The deacons of the chapel, in consultation with the monthly meeting, appointed a deputation, consisting of the High Sheriff of Montgomeryshire and two o'her gentlemen, to see the landlady, but she absolutely refused to see them. The next step was to bring the case before the association, which was held at Transfynydd in May last. Previous to that Mrs Seymour Davies' agent had travelled to Llan- brynmair in order to take possession of the chapel and property, but when he demanded the keys from the leading deacon he refused to give them up. At the Trawsfynydd Association the feeling of indignation ran very high, Principal Edwards and others advocating an uncompromising resist- ance to the unjust attempt to deprive the con- nexion of its lawful property. Indeed, one gentleman, who is not by any means a poor man, declared that be would part with his last penny, if need be, in defending the Llanbrynmair case, and another gentleman promised .£50 towards a defence fund that might be required. A strong executive committee was appointed to act on behalf of the congregation and association, and Messrs Williams, Gittins, and Taylor, solicitors, of Newtown, were instructed to act in the matter. Up to last week it was generally supposed that Mrs Seymour Davies had listened to her friends and reason, and was prepared to allow the Llan- brynmair people to worship in peace in the chapel which they built, and which is hallowed by old associations; but last Friday it was found other- wise, as that morning's post brought a writ and a copy of statement of claim. The Calvinistic Methodists are, however it appears, fully de- termined to brave the ordeal of eviction rather than give up the possession of their chapel.

FATAL ACCIDENT AT NEWTOWN. LITTLE WILLIE KILLED BY THE 'BUS. At the Queen's Head Inn, on Monday evening, Mr R. Williams, coroner, held an inquest on the body of Willie Dennis Bennett, three years of age, who was killed on Saturday evening by being run over by a railway omnibus. The foreman of the jury was Mr Barker Halliwell. The first witness called was the father of the deceased, John Bennett, 39, Stone-street, a French polisher. He knew nothing of the accident, but merely identified the body as that of bis ch Id. Richard Williams, stone mason, Penygloddfa, said he occasionally drove busses to and from the railway station. On the previous Saturday afternoon he was driving the Bears Head 'bus. He had been to the station with some luggage to meet the 3-40 p.m. train, and having unloaded this at the station, was going to fetch another from Mr Halford's Pool-road. He came straight down the Kerry-road, and as turn- ing the corner opposite the Terrace Inn, he saw three children run across the road. He pulled up as quickly as he could, but failed to stop in time to pre- vent the accideut, and one wheel he believed went over the child. He jumped down at once, and handed over the reins to John Hammonds, who was on tbe 'bus at the time. He picked up the child and handed it over to Richard Williams, of Stone-street. He was driving slowly at the time the accident occurred. The child was not dead when he picked it up, but it was hurt, and began to bleed when he turned it over. John Hammonds, weaver, of Evan's Court. Church- street, said he was on the 'bus with the iast witness on the previous Saturday, and he agreed with the account of the accident already given. Everything possible was done to pull up, but the little child, instead of running straight, ran towards the 'bus,and so hastened the accident. Jane Brown, 17, Kerry-road, said while in her bed- room, she heard someone screaming to children to get out of the way of the 'bus. Looking out she saw three children immediately in front of the 'bus. Two of them escaped from right under the horse's head, but the third was knocked down by the wheel. She saw the busman pulling up and jumping down. He was driving moderately slowly, and she did not think he could have pulled up more quickly than he did. She did not think Williams was at all to blame. There was a toy dealer on the other aide of the street, and the children were crossing over to him. Susan Crewe, Crosa-iitreet, gave corroborative evidence. George James Silver, medical practitioner at New- town, said about four o'clock on the previous Satur- day afternoon he was called to see the deceased at Mrs Bennett's in Stone-street. It was dead when he arrived. Upon making an external examination of the body, he found a bruise over the left. eyebrow, and a fracture of the cervical vertebrw-in other words the neck was broken. The neck was slightly swollen, but there was no injury to the skin, nor was there any mark of anything having passed over it. The injuries were such as must have caused almost instant death. There must have been some injury to the throat to have caused the amount of blood referred to in the evidence of some of the witnesses. The cause of death must have been fracture of the neck. ihe Coroner having summed up, the jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death in accordance with the medical evidence.

CHORAL FESTIVAL AND PRESEN- TATION AT LLANIDLOES. Ihe anuual choral festival in connection with the Llanidloes Wesleyan Circuit, waa held on Monday, at the Llanidloes Welsh Wesleyan Chapel. The first meeting, at one o'clock, was presided over by the Rev H. O. Hughes, and singers from the following Churches in the circuit were present :-Trefeglwys, Llawryglyn, Shiloh, Carno, Van, Llandinam, Llan- gurig, Caeran, Cwmbellan, Cefn, and Llanidloes. The singing this year was conducted by Mr R. Wilfred Jones, R A.M., of London. At three o'clock tea was provided for all the singers in the Public Rooms, and the tables were presided over by Mrs Hughes, Wesley Honse, Mrs Thomas James, Mrs Meadins, Mrs T. Humphreys, Miss Jones, Oak, Miss Evans, and the Misses Bees, Medical Hall, Mrs Williams, Liverpool House, Mrs Thomas Jerman, Short Bridge-street, Mrs Swancott, Mrs John Morris, Picton-street, Mrs Evan Jerman, Station-road, and Mrs Hamer, Corner Shop, assisted by several willing hands. The evening meeting began at five, and was opened with prayer by Mr Williams, of Carno. A long programme of hymn tunes and anthems was gone through, and the conductor expressed himself as highly pleased with the singing throughout. The singing was accompanied by two harmoniums and a pianoforte, the accompanists being Mr W. It. Row- botham, Llangurig, Mr E. Lloyd, Llawryglyn, and Mr T. E. Hamer, Llanidloes. An excellent address was given by Mr James Griffiths, Llangurig. At the close of the service an interesting ceremony took place in the form of a presentation of a beauti. fully illuminated address, and a purse of gold to the Rev H. O. Hughes, in recognition of the exceptional services rendered by him in the circuit during his ministry. The address was read by Mr Thomas Ashton, Llanidloes, and was as follows :— Llanidloes, August lath, 1892. To the Rev Hugh Owen Hughes. Reverend and Dear Sir,— Tour ministry in the Llanidloes Wesleyan Circuit has reached the specified, limit, and whilst regretting your de- parture from our midst, we are glad of this opportunity of presenting you with this address in token of our apprecia- tion of your labours of love, and also your successful adminis- tration of the affairs of this circuit. It is with pleasure that we testify that as superintendent you combined the meekness and gentleness of Christ with a zealous loyalty to the rules and traditions of Wesleyan Methodism. On entering upon this circuit we noticed with what care you had examined our affairs, gauged our neces- sities, and calculated our resources, and we now freely con- fess that whilst your plans and methods at first did not always commend themselves to us, you won our confidence.; the energy you bestowed upon the work, and your earnest- ness, secured our feeble co-operation, and we rejoiced with you in the triumphant issue invariably secured, thanks to your foresight, skill, perseverance, and self-denying labour; we firmly believe that this circuit must always remember, with gratitude the period of your ministry, because you laboured to produce results which we shall continue to enjoy.; Truly we have entered into your labours," and in this gift' we trust "that he that soweth and he that reapeth may, rejoice together." That as pastor you have always been conscientious and faithful. Your presence brought .gladness into many a sorrowful home, and your words of kindly counsel and ad- monition, and your fervent prayers led us, your flock, to feel Ahat "you comforted us who were in any trouble by the comfort wherewith youyourself had been comforted of God." We felt that you were jealous over us with a Godlv jealously, identifying yourself with us, you directed us in all things to this end-" giving no offence in anything that the ministry be not blamed, but in all things approving yourself as the minister of God." That as a preacher you convinced us that your aim was to "hold forth the word of life" faithful to the Gospel in its simplicity and purity. Such was your earnestness of pur- pose and your love for our spiritual welfare that your speeeh and preaching was not with dubious words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power." We are glad to think that your work was not limited to our circle, but that you rendered willing and efficient service to the temperance cause, apd other social movements in the front of all good work, and we took courage to follow. Under such circumstances it is not strange that we are loth to part with you, bnt we gladly commend you into the care of Him whom you have served so well here, and we hope and pray that our God and Father may prosper you in all your future undertakings, and that the Spirit of the Most High will guide you into all truth, taking of the things of Christ and revealing them unto them you 1 for the edification of many and finally we pray that you and your little family and Mrs Hughes, a "true yoke fellow and fellow worker" be preserved in the service of God to minister unto the wants of the children of God, and to build up the churches of God wherein you may be called upon to labour. On behalf of the circuit we, the circuit stewards, attach our signatures. (Signed) David Lloyd, Williage Savage. —The presentation was made by Mr D. Lloyd, Llawryglyn, the senior circuit uteward, who spoke in Welsh", and referred to the good work which had been done by Mr Hughes in the circuit, and wished him God-speed iu bis new Bphere of labour,—The puree of goid was presented on behalf of the circuit by Miss L. Millie Hamer, of the Royal Oak.—The Rev H. O. Hughes returned thanks in a most effective speech, and referred to the kindness he had received from all the friends iu tbe circuit. He and bis good wife, he said, had never spent ft happier time in their lives.

REMINISCENCES OF NEWTOWN IMPROVEMENTS. A correspondent sends the following for publica- tion —I will thank you very much and feel deeply indebted by your inserting m y< ur valuable paper a few thoughta of Newtown—of the vast changes that have been made, and the great improvements brought about during the last 30 or 35 years. Out of so many it is no easy matter to select the first, but I will begin with the railway. Many of the inhabitants remember the coal famine in Newtown—the canal frozen up, and people yoked to loads of coul from the pits which, upon arrival, were as a drop in the ocean. Many remember that The only means at one time of bringing metcbandi^e to Newtown was by canal and Morgan and Sockett's waggons. We have in 1892 a first-class service of trains flying with goods to and from all parts of the world to our doors, and taking in vast numbers people from great centres of population to have a view of our dear old Wales, seeking restored health and vigour at one of our health-giving watering places, and giving us the chance of shaking hands with the metropolis of the world during the day and oe at night. The next great change is in the places of worship. We are struck with admiration at that noble Baptist Chapel on the New-road, built at a cost of some XS,000 or £ 10,000. The churches and chapels have also been built or restored, so that our town stands first as to the accommodation of the worshippers of the Most High. There is, however, one exception- one stain-the old church, which stands a monument of neglect and insult to religious and pious ancestors. Our factories—thanks to the enterprise and energy of the people—stand out in bold relief, and ar* a credit to Wales. There is first the Cambrian, from which Lord Sudeley, through many trials, has never withdrawn his support. Its neighbour, the Com- mercial, is in good hands; G. Morgan and Co., Limited, is doing a good trade; and the Severn Valley Mills are large and under able management. Great improvements have also been made in our warehouses and shops. First stands the Royal Welsh Warehouse, owned and worked by Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones. Other warehouses and etiops in High- street, Broad-street, Market-street, and other st, eete in the town haV1 been greatly improved. The last, and certainly not the least, i* the Bear's Head Hotel, formerly an eyesore, and the adjoining property has-thanks to the spirited owner, Pryce Wileou Jones-been entirely removed and a grand hotel built (of which he is the proprietor), as well as two very good shops—one in the hands of Dicks' Shoe Company the other held by the St ir Tea Company. May Pryce Wilson Jones be rewarded for his spirited enterprise. Other improvements of a private charaoter have been made. I had to do with the old sanitary committee some 30 years ago, and when the Local Board was first suggested I inspected various parts of the town. The sanitary state of the town was deplorable; few bouses had proper accommodation; yards, courts, and the smaller houses were almost entirely neglected some were in such a filthy state as to be nnnseaole; others close to pumps from which the inhabitants drew their water; and the death-rate about 25 in the 1000. The Board saw the responsible position they were in, but through prejudices and fear of the high rates some years elapsed before active sanitary measures were adopted. At length the Local Board settled to their work, a complete system of sewerage was laid out by competent engineers, every house in the town waa connected therewith, and the filth of the town was taken some two miles away. The cemetery was the next impor- tant improvement—a need much felt-not only a necessity, but an ornament to the county. At present a thorough paving of the side walks of the town has nearly been finished at a great cost. Whilst these great public improvements have been carried out private enterprize has not been asleep, A good supply of water, with a further small outlay, is within reach of all. All these improvements have been made to raise the town from the most insaoitary town in Wales to be one of the most healthy. The death-rate in 1892 was 14 per 1000. The rates are heavy, inasmuch os these improvements are all done upon purely sanitary lines, and from which very little direct income is received. There still remains much good work to be done- work which would be in the hands of the town profitable, and would much reduce taxes. Let me, in the first place, lay before you the important question of the markets of the town, over which the town at present has very little control. I am strongly of the opinion that with additional accom. dation a large surplus sum could be made. My second suggestion is that the waterworks should belong to the town. This is absolutely necessary, as one of the first necessaries of life should be given to the people at the least possible cost, and in such quantities as would be sufficient to meet the require- ments of the people. I am further of the opinion that water should be supplied as free, pure, and plentiful as nature gives and the ingenuity of man can convey it. My third suggestion is that the gas works, as yielding a necessity to our daily occupa- tion and comfort, should certainly be the property vf the inhabitants. Water, gas, and markets in the hands of the town would increase our comforts, add to the importance of the town, and much reduce the rates of the district I trust that I may see some member of the Local Buard taking the whole matter in hand—"water, gas, and market." A largo sum must be spent, but a large income would be obtained, and Newtown would rank as one of the cleanest, best governed, most enterprising, and most pros- perous towns of its population in the kingdom. I have spoken in these few remarks of sanitary and commercial questions; allow me to add my id-a as to our social position. Several efforts have been made to raise our social status amongst the towns of our county. This should be done before it be too late, as other suggestions are now before the county. My reasons for incorporation are many, of which you, air, are aware. ♦

SALOP AND MONTGOMERYSHIRE PRESBYTERY. A meeting of the Presbytery was held at Llany- mynech on Thursday week, when there were present Revs J. Jones, R. Jones, Oswestry, E. Williams, Abermule, E. Parry, M.A., Newtown, J. Davies, Berriew, J. Roberts, Bettws, R. Owen, T. C. Jones, Welshpool, and R. Morris, Shrewsbury, Mesais J. Davies, Coedway, D. Bebb, Castle, J. H. Davies, i H. Owen, and T. W. Reese, Welshpool, T. Rowlands, Newtown, E. R. James, Montgomery, R. Davies, Weston,W. Davies, Varchoel, W. Pritchard, Berriew, W. F. Davies, A. Davies, J. Davies, Bomere Heath, T. Hamer Jones, Bettws, aeo., J. Reese, E. Hughea, Welshpool, E. Jones and J. Morgan, Shrewsbury, R- Griffiths and E. Davies, Tabernacle, I. Powell, E. Davies and R. Jones, Llanymynech. Mr Isaac Powell was Moderator.—It was reported that Mr J. Hamer Jones, Pantmawr, and Mr D. Andrew had been, elected deacons at Bettws.—Mr D. Bebb reported that arrangements for ministerial supplies had been made for the churches at Holsten and Bomere Heath, and the arrangements made were confirmed.-Plans for rebuilding a church at Weston at a oost of X220, for alterations of the church at Berriew at an esti- mated cost of ^6190, and for alteration of the Assembly Rooms at Berriew at an estimated cost of J2150 were approved.—The report of the Almwich Association was given by Mr T. Rowlands and the Rev J. Roberts. —It was resolved that the Handbook for the Presbytery having been prepared thny should be sub. mitted for revision, if necessary, to the Rev R. Jones, J. Davies, and Mr Pritchard, and it was decided that the statistics should, if possible, be brought out separately.—The Rev E. Parry exhibited the copies of the recently revised hymn bOllk. The churcaes were recommended to write for copies of the hymn book to the Rev D. O'Brian Owen, Carnarvon.—The Rev T. C. Jones and J. Davies, Berriew, thanked the Presbytery for the votes of sympathy with them adopted at the last meeting. A letter of transfer given to the Rev R. Morris, Shrewsbury, from the West Merioneth Monthly Meeting, was read and Mr Morris was cordially welcomed.—The Rev R. Owen, of Welshpool, was also welcomed into the Presbytery as a minister, and the Secretary was instructed to iaelude his name in the denomination list of ministers. A hearty welcome was given the Rev J. Davies, Gwy. therin, who has taken charge pro tem of the church at Llanymynech to the Rev D. Williams, of Iowa, T-T.&, and Mr William Morris, of Oswestry, as visitors to the Presbytery.—The Rev T. W. Reese, of Welsh. pool, who has completed his year of probation, was reeeired as a member of the Preibytery.-Attention was called to the United Conference of the English Churches to be held at Liverpool on September 26, 27, 28, and the Rev T. C. Jones, of Welshpool, and Mr William Pritehard were appointed delegates.— The Rev E. Parry called attention to the lesson book which has been lately prepared by the Rev William Lewis, of Pontypridd., for the use of Sunday Schools. -Mr Parry also pointed out the importance of the formation of libraries iu connection with their Sunday Schools.—Mr D. Ro .viands questioned tbe deacons at Llanymynech as to the state of the cause at Llany- mynech, and satiafactory answers were elicited.-The Rev T. C. Jones proposed the appointment of a com- mittee to consider thd subject < fthe support of young men at Bala, and the following were appointed, the Revs E. Parry, M.A., J. Roberts, Bettws. and J. Davies, Berriew, Messrs D. Pryce, Gaerfawr, I. Powell, E. R. James, R. Williams, T. R. Morris, with the Rev T. C. Jones as convener.—It was announoed that the next Presbytery will be held at Abermule on October 12th.—Mr Gittins was recognised as a deacon at Tabernacle, and it was announced that the newly elected deacons would be received as members of the Presbytery at the Welshpool meeting, Mr Davies, Varohoel, to deliver the ch irge.-A vote of sympathy was passed with Mr Jones, of Varehoel, on the death of his son.—In the evening sermons were pieaohed by the Rev O. D. Jones, Tredegar, and the BeT E. Parry, M.A., Kewtown.

MONTGOMERY COUiST Y COUNCIL V. SIR PRYCE PRYCE-JONES AND MYSELF. Sir,—It is not a desirable practice for litigants to make use of the press to comment upon legal pro- ceedings in which they have been personally con- cerned unless under exceptional circumstances, and it is no wish of mine to do so. It has, however, been several times remarked to me that this dispute should have been settled without recourse to legal proceedings, which will cost the ratepayers of this county a sum for which Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones and I would gladly grant permitsion to the County Council to use the above rooms for the next thousand years for their quarterly meetings or adjournments thereof," in accordance with their ultimate claim. Under these circumstances I think it only right that the public should be made aware of the efforts which were made by Sir Pryce and myself to come to an amicable arrangement with the Council, and with this end in view I shall be obliged if you will give publicity to the following correspondence, which doea not appear to have been included in your reports of the proceedings of the Council.—Your obedient servant, EDWARD POWELL. Newtown, 19th August, 1892. Welshpool, 16th April, 1889. Dear air,- NEWTOWN PUBLIC ROOMS. Will you kindly furnish me, for the use of the County Council, with copies of the Indentures of 13th September, 1833, and 1st January, 1838, which, as you are aware, are covenanted to be produced to the Clerk of the Peace from time to time.—Yours truly, GEO. D. HARRISON. Edw. Powell, Esq. Newtown, 23rd April, 1889. Dear air,- NEWTOWN PUBLIC ROOMS. I will have copies of the deeds made and sent to you as soon as possible you will please understand that I do not admit your right to them. The limited rights which were given to the magistrates for the holding of Assizes and Quarter Sessions can surely have no reference to the duties devolving upon the County Council.—Yours truly, EDW. POWELL. G. D. Harrison. Esq., Clerk of the Peace, Welshpool. Welshpool, 7th May, 1889. Dear sir,Upon a perusal of the documents which you sent me, it seems to me that the County Council, as successors of the Court of Quarter Sessions, are entitled to the use of such rooms as they require free of all cost.—Yours truly, GEO. D. HARRISON. Newtown, 13th May, 1889. Dear eir,-I cannot understand upon what; ground you consider that the County Council has a right to use the above rooms free of cost. The documents to which you refer-even for a moment supposing them to be binding after the dissolution of the company- do not appear to me to support your claim in any way. The Council may have the use of the rooms upon reasonable terms, but not free of cost.-Yours truly, EDW. POWELL. Newtown, 20th February, 1890. Dear air,-As plans are now being prepared for enlarging and improving the accommodation of the Public Rooms, I shall be glad to know at your earliest convenience whether the County Council would like provision to be made for holding their meetings in the rooms. If so, I shall be happy to submit plans and terms of letting. Can you, at the same time, inform me whether the Council have yet satisfied themselves that they have no right to use the existing rooms free of charge. As it is now twelve months since the Council first used the rooms I think you will agree with me that it is time this question was settled. If the Council entertain any doubt upon the matter, I would suggest that the question be submitted to counsel to be agreed upon by both parties, and that his opinion be accepted and acted upon by both parties.—Yours truly, EDW. POWELL. Montgomery County Council, Welshpool, 22od Feb., 1890. Dear sir,—I laid your letter of the 20th inst. before the County Council at their meeting yester- day. My clients claim to be entitled to use the central or principal storey with its acoassories, and the lock-up and cells free of all charge, for the Assizes or Quarter Sessions or any adjournment thereof respectively, and for the usual quarterly meetings of the Council and any committees held on the same days as those meetings, and for any adjournment thereof; but they would, I think, be prepared to pay for the use of the rooms for the committees upon other occasions, and I shall be glad to hear that this is acceptable to you and that you will be prepared to correct the claim sent in against the County Council upon this basis. This is without prejudice. -Yours truly, GEO. D. HARRISON. Newtown, 25th Feb., 1890. Dear sir,—I am in receipt of yours of the 22nd inst. We are very strongly advised that the County Council have no right whatever to use the rooms free, and we cannot consent to waive our right to payment. Will you kindly let me know at your earliest convenience whether your clients will adopt the suggestion I made-that the question should be left to the decision of counsel to be agreed upon. I think you will agree with me that the right which your clients now claim, being practically narrowed down to the right to use the rooms twice a year only, is but a smaH matter, which should be settled without litigation. We are anxious to have the matter settled without delay, and also to know whether the Council wishes us in the plans which are being prepared to make provision for their meetings. We shall also be glad to consider any suggestions which you or your clients may wish to make for the improvement of the oourt, providing waiting rooms for prisoners in lieu of the present cells, retiring rooms for judge, magistrates, and jurymen, etc. If the committee to whom the matter was referred by the Council could meet at the rooms to discuss the matter, I think we ought without difficulty to be able to come to an arrangement satisfactory to all parties.-Yours truly, EDW. POWELL. Newtown, 24th December, 1890. Dear Sir,-These rooms will be completed by Saturday next, and I shall be glad to hear from you without further delay what the County Council are prepared to offer for the use of a room for their meet- ingii and, also, in reply to my offer, to refer the question in dispute to a counsel to be agreed upon.- Youra truly, EDWARD POWELL. Montgomery County Council, Welshpool, 17th February, 1891. Dear Sir,—I brought your recent letters before the Finance Committee at their meeting yesterday, and was instructed to inform you that the Council claim that they are entitled to the use of the rooms in question for their quarterly meetings, or any ad- journments thereof, free of oost. They were fully under the impression that the owners of the Public Rooms had accepted this view, and the whole of the negotiations have baen based upon this assumption. My clients cannot oonsent to any arbitration, as, in their opinion, there is nothing to refer.—Yours truly, GEO. IK HARBISON. Newtown, 18th February, 1891 Dear Sir,—I am in receipt of yours of the 17th inst., and was very much astonished to find that your Finance Committee were under the impression that we admitted the right of the Council to use the rooms for their quarterly meetings. I have all along by my letters and verbally contested this right, and have also informed them that my own view that they have no such right is backed up by the opinion of counsel. We have already expressed our willingness to enter into an arrangement, on reasonable terms, for the Council to use a portion of the building for all their meetings. I can now only repeat that we are anxious to avoid litigation, and, with this end in view, are still prepared to refer the question to counsel to be IIgreed upon; but, as in the opinion of your clients, there is nothing to refer, it will, of course, be useless to continue these negotiations, aud I am reluctantly compelled to give you uotice that henceforth tbe Council will not be allowed to use the rooms until some arrangement has been arrived at. The owners of the rooms, as you are aware, are Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones and myself, and if your clients really think they have any right to use the rooms for their meetings, and decide to take legal proceedings to enforce their claims, I will accept service on behalf of Sir Pryce Pryce.Jones and myself. The Quarter Sessions and Assizes may be he:d in the room" as heretofore, but no other meetings. Be good enough to inform me whether your clients are prepared to paythe account whieh I have already sent you for the use of the rooms in the past.—Yours truly, EDWAHD POWELL. Montgomery Coftnty Oonncil, Welshpool, 19th February, 1891. Dear Sir,—I have received your letter of yester- day's date, and am sorry to find that yon do not aooept the contention of wf clients, and decline the •JS:> or the rooms, to which we claim to be entitled free of charge, for the quarterly meetings of the Council or any adjournment thereof. Inasmuch as the next quarterly meetings of the County Council is to be held at Newtown upon the 27th inst., and the ag-enda. must go out at once, I would suggest that, without prejudice, you should agree to the rooms being used as heretofore, pending a settlement of the question at issue. If you cannot fall in with this suggestion, kindly wire me in the morning that I may take the Chairman's instructions as to what arrangements a?e to be made.—Yours truly, GEO. D. HARRISON. To HARRISON, WELSHPOOL. Without prejudice you can use the rooms on paying the usual fee. POWELL. Newtown, 2]st February, 1891. Dear Sir,—I am in receipt of yours of the 19th and 20th insts. We shall be willing to allow the Council, without prejudice, to use the room for their next meeting upon paying the usual fee therefor but you will please note that no further meetings will be per. mitted until the question at issue betweeu us has been settled. We are prepared to leave this question as being one of law to the decision of a barrister, to be agreed upon, and, if his opinion be in favour of the Council, we will abide by it. and pay his fee, your clients, on the other hand, entering into a similar undertaking should his opinion be adverse to their claim. Should the Council prefer having the question decided by a court of law, the responsibility for the needless cost which will be incurred must rest upon its own shoulders. To prevent ary possibility of misunderstanding, I repeat the offer I have aevera times previously made to refer the dispute as above or to enter into an agreement with your clients to allow them to use the rooms for all their meetings at a reasonable charge.-Yours truly, EDWD. POWELL. Newtown, 7th May, 1891. Dear Sir.-It is upwards of two years eince the County Council commenced to use tt e above rooms, and I think you must agree with me that tney should either h*ve paid for them or taken step3 to enforce their alleged right to use them free of charge by this. I must really a"k you to let me know without further delay whether the Council are prepared to pay for the rooms or take proceedings in acc ordance with a resolution which I under-,tand was passed a con- siderable time back to obtain the opinion of a court of law upon their claim. Having rejected all our overtures to settle the matter in an amicable way. without legal proceed. inga, it is surely due to Sir Pryce-Jones and myself, as the owners of the rooms, that we should be in- formed whether our claim to rent will or will not be paid without litigation.-Yours truly, EDWARD POWELL. Montgomery County Council, Welshpool, 8th May. 1891. Dear sir,—I am in receipt of your letter of the 7th inst, which shall be laid before the committee of the Council at their next meeting. I may say, however, that the matter is now under consideration, and I am "lo sure the Council are as anxious as you can be to have the question at issue iletermined satisfactorily with the least delay, and, if possible, in an amicable manner.-Yoar3 truly, GEO. D. HARRISON. Newtown, 8th June, 1891. Dear Sir,—When may I oxoect to have your clients' decision in this mattter ?—Yours truly, EDWARD POWELL. Montgomery County Council, Welshpool, 9th June, 1891. Dear Sir,—I shall probably be in a position to write to you after Monday next, for which day a committee is summoned to consider the question.— Youra truly, GEO. D. HARRISON. Montgomery County Council, 15th Juno, 1891. Dear Sir,—I am instructed to inform you that my clients have decided to take immediate ateoa for ob. taining a judicial decision upon the questions at issue.—Yours truly, GEO. D. HARRISON. Montgomery County Council, 15th June, 1891. Dear Sir,—In order that there may be no possible misunderstanding between us on the point, would you kindly inform me whether I am right in under- standing that youy clients refuse to allow the County Council the use of the rooms upon the first floor fur their quarterly meetinga, or any adjournments there- of, free of cost.—Yours truly, OEO. D. HARRISON. Newtown, 24th June, 1891. Dear Sir,—In rpply to yours of the 15th inpt, we refuse to allow the County Council the use of the rooms free of cost, for any purpose other than tho,e specified in the two agreements of 1810 and 1848. We contend that none of the meetings of the County Council have come within the agreements, and that therefore they were not entitled to the use of the rooms free of cost.—Yours truly, EDWARD POWELL. Newtown, 18th Jan., 1892. Dear Sir,—I am in receipt of this special case, but before forwarding it to counsel for re-perusal, I should be glad to hear from you with reference to your addition to paragraph 26. I find that in the year 1889, you had 14 meetings in the Public Rooms, and I do not see how this cau be reconciled with the statement, that only two meetings in addition to the quarterly meetings had been held there.-Yours truly, EDWARD POWELL. Welshpool, 19th January, 1892. Dear Sir,—I am in receipt of your letter of yester- day's date. I think you are under a slight mis. apprehension as regards the extent of the County Council's claim. We only claim to use the rooms free of charge for any quarterly meetings of the Council, or adjournments thereof, or any other meet- ings that may fall upon the same date. Any meetings of the committees not held upon the same dates as quarterly meetings or adjournments thereof are not claimed to be free of ebarge.-Youre truly, GEO. D. HARRISON.

THE WELSH BAPTIST UNION. THE DISESTABLISHMENT QUESTION. Tne sittings of the Welsh Baptist Union were opened at Carnarvon on Tuesday, under the presi- dency of the Rev W. Harris (Heolyfelin), the chair. man for the year. On the motion of Mr R. Roberts, solicitor (Carnar- von), the financial statement, showing a balance in hand of £ 24, was adopted. Professor Silas Morris, M.A., Bangor, then read an able paper on "The Present Position of Biblical Criticism," which provoked a prolonged and interest- ing discussion, the speakers deprecating the fondiaoss of some pieaehera for touching upon controversial and sceptical subjects before congregations whose minds had never been ruffled by doubts as to the foundations of Christianity and the Divine inspiration of the Soriptures. The Rev T. E. Williams (Aberystwyth), as a. mem- bfr of the committfe appointed to draft political resolutions, reported that the committee asked the o inference to approve of of resolutions congratulating the Liberal party upon its return to power; calling attention to the necessity for giving Welsh disestab- lishment a foremost place in the programme of the new Parliament, and calling upon the Charity Com- missioners and the joint education committees of Wales and Monmouthshire to insert in their schemes for intermediate education provisions securing com- plete liberty of conscience to pupils in those schools. Several ministers and laymen dwelt upon the desira- bility of impressing upon the Charity Commissioners and the education committees the importance of utilising for public benefit endowments which they maintained were at present unjustly possessed by the Established Church.—The Rev A. J. Parry said he believed that with regard to disestablishment, the conference should adopt a much more definite resolu- tion than that penned by even the Welsh Parlia. mentary party. Let their demand be that Home Rule for Ireland and Welsh disestablishment should be taken concprrently; otherwise, the Liberal party would not be in a position to deal with the latter question after the withdrawal of the Irish members from Westminster.—A delegate reminded Mr Parry that, according to Mr G adstone's declaration, it was not intended that the Irieh members should with- draw from the Imperial Parliament.—Mr Parry aaked whether disestablishment could be considered an Imperial matter if not, the Irish party would have no voice in deciding it. and Wales would be left in the hands of Tory England.—It was subsequently agreed that the committee should di aft a resolution bearing upon the subjects of disestablishment and temperance. The Revs H. C. Williams (Corwen) and R. D Roberts (Ll'vynhendy) w re appointed president and vice-president respectively for tLe ensuing year.

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A PUBLICAN FINED AT NEWTOWN. At the adjourned Petty Sessions, held at Newtown on Saturday week, befor9 Richard Lloyd and T. Parry Jones, Esqrs., John Edwards, of the Hare and Hounds Inn, was charged by P.S. Morgan with per- mitting drunkenness on licensed premises. Mr Edwar-I Powell appeared for defendant. P.S. Thomas Morgan said on visited the Hare and Hounds Inn, in the occupation of John Edwards, and found in a room the landlord and two persons, not defendants. Richard Bywater was also there, standing np, holding the handle of a quart jug. Thomas Dodd was sitting down behind him at a corner of the table. Both were very drunk. Witness drew the landlord's attention to the men, upon which he said he had not served Bywater, and that Dodd was not drunk. He said it was his opinion that both were very drunk, and Edwards replied, If that is so I may as well shut up my house." There was a half-pint glass in front of Dodd half full of ale. There was another glass containing appar* ently ale, which another man said belonged to him. A man named Williams took hold of the glass in front of Dodds and said it belonged to him. He iimelt the jug which Bywater had handled and found it con- tained beer. It was about half full. As he raised the jug up he said "Don't touch the jug; it is my quart of a'e, and I paid for it." Margaret Morgan, lodging house, spoke to having given certain information to the sergeant. P.S. Tanner and P.C. Rowlands both spoke to tbø- drunken condition of Bywater and Dodds. For the defence John Edwards, landlord,was called and stated he had held the house for eight years, and during that time there had been no complaint. Dodds ordered the beer and was perfectly sober. Nobody had touched it when P.S. Morgan came in. Dodds asked Williams to have a glass and he refused. Bywater did not call for anything and was not served. Margaret Edwards, E. Williams, Thomas Smith, and David Pryce gave evidence iu favour of the sobriety of Dodds. The Bench, however, considered the case proved and fined defendant X2 and costs. Thomas Dodds and Bywater, who were implicated in the above charge, were each fined 5s. and coats,

FORDEN BOARD OF GUARDIANS,- WEDNESDAY. Preser.t :Mr W. Pryce, Chirbury (presiding), Mr W. Rogers, Pool Middle (vice-chairman), Rev J, Sawer, Leighton, Measra J. T. Francis, Forden, John Davies, Llandyssil, Samuel Miller, Llanmerewig, Francis Langtord, Montgomery, Lieut.-Col. Twyford, Pool Lower, C. S. Pryce (clerk), and J. E. Tomley (assistant clerk). STATISTICS. Amounts paid in out-relief during the part fort* night:—Mr Robert Tomley, Montgomery, X14 4a 8d to 77 recipients; Mr J. Fortune, Welshpool, Jill ls7d to 61; Mr J. Oliver, Worthen, X10 10s 8d to 76; non- resident poor, 8s to 2: total, £ 36 4s lid to 220. against £ 36 0« 10dto263, in the corresponding period of last year. Vagrants relieved during the fortnight, 134, against 97 number in the house, 96, against 101. Amount of treasurer's balance due to the Union* £ 348 2s Id. A THOUGHTFUL PLEA FOR THE POOB. Col. Twyford said that while visiting the house several inmates had akd him whether they could have a little more milk with their food, with their tea for instance in the morning, and also instead of souf one or two nights in the week. He understood that there was plenty of milk in the house—something more than was required—and under these circum* • stances he thought the request of the inmates ought to be acceded to.-The Master was instructed to supply milk to all who wished it. UOOD NEWS FOR A PAUPER INMATE. Col. Twyford also announoed that he had succeeded in getting a pension of 9d per day for Charles Lloydr an inmate of the house. The question for the guardians to decide was whether they would allow- the man to go out of the house free, or compel him to refund out of his pension the amount due to the' Union for his keep. If the latter course was decided upon it would be rather hard, as the man would have nothing to start with.—Eventually it was decided to allow the man to go out free. THE HOLIDAY SEASON. The Clerk applied for leave of absence for three weeks.—The Chairman, in moving that it be granted, said they knew Mr Pryce had an important engage- ment to fulfil, and he wished him every happiness (laughter and applause).—The motion was seconded by Col. Twyford, and carried.—Leave of absence for eight days was also granted to the Matron. THE STATE OF THE HOUSE. The Master announced that on August 10th the house was visited by Mr Birchen, Local Governmpufc Board Inspector, whose report was as follows" I this day inspected the workhouse, which I found clean-" and in good order throughout. No complaints fFaie made by any of the inmates." THE CHILDREN'S TREAT. The Master also stated that Mrs Mostyn Price had' invited the children to spend a day with her at Gunley, and he asked the permission of the Board to t.ike them. Mr Francis, the Gaer, had promised to convey the children in waggons.—Granted.

EARTHQUAKE IN WALES. SEVERE SHOCKS. Early on Thursday morning severe earthquake shocks were felt in Pembrokeshire. The first shock occurred about half-past twelve, and quite terrified the inhabitants, hundreds arising from bed and gathering in the streets. The vibrations were seTere, windows and articles in the houses being violently shaken. Cage birds, fowls, horses, and cattle were terrified. There were two further shocks, the last one about two o'clock, but these were less severe. Distinct shocks of earthquake were felt between twelve and one o'clock at Milfurd Haven and Car- marthen. One shock lasted twelve seconds, and many perjons were so terrified that they rushed out of their houses. Some men at work in the docks at Milford imagined that the dock wall was collapsing but the shocks was not felt on board the vessels iit the harbour. Two distinct shocks were felt at Tenby, whero crockery was smashed and furniture was shifted. The first shock was at twenty-seven minutes paetr twelve, and was the most pronounced; and the second occurred at a-qaarter to two. At Milford Haven the first shock was at twenty-five minutes past twelve, and the second at twenty minutes to two, Shocks were also felt at Saunders Foot and Amroth, near Tenby. The weather in the area affected was on Wednesday night most oppressive. At Pembroke there were three shocks, the first at twenty minutes to one, the second at half-past one, and the third at three o'clock. Earthquake shocks were also felt on Wednesday night at Worcester. A Bridgend telegram says that a sharp shock of earthquake has been experienced throughout South Wales. It was noticed there at twenty minutes past twelve. In the Neath district many persons were awakened by their houses shaking and a low rumbling sennd. A shock of earthquake was felt at Presteign after midnight. Houses shock and doors rattled. The vibration continued two seconds. Many people left their beds. A severe earthquake shook was felt at Llanelly, Burryport, and other parts of Carmarthen, at twenty. five minutes past twelve o'clock. In the docks vessels swayed as if in a storm, and in the mines the shock caused considerable alarm. The passengers and guards of the midnight express report having felt the train quiver. Several families felt their bede tremble, and the furniture and china appeared to be going to pieces. ♦

GRAVE CHARGE AGAINST A SHROPSHIRE CLERGYMAN. The Rev. Thomas Kempthorne, rector of Kenley, was summoned to attend at the Shrewsbury County Police Office, on Saturday, to answer a. charge of criminally assaulting his domestic servant, Emily Edwards, a young woman of about 21, on July 7tll and 22nd last. The magistrates who attended were W. E. M. Hulton Harrop and Lyde Benson, Esqrs. -Mr F. W. Williams was for the prosecution, and- Mr Spearman, of the Oxford Circuit, for the defence.—The defendant did not appear when his name was called, and after waiting some time for his appearance, Mr Williams said he was quite pre- Eared to go on with the case, but he did not aee* ow he could do so, considering what the eharge was, in the absence of the defendant.—Mr Spearman stated that Mr Kempthorne had gone to visit some- relatives in Essex, but was expected back in time for the hearing of the case; in fact the solicitor's clerk had gone to the station to meet him. All the witnesses for the defence was present, and he (Mr Spearman) was quite prepared to go on with the case. Mr Kempthorne was. however, of a very excitable temperament, and perhaps was not weft enough to attend.—Mr Harrop said in that case a telegram could hd.ve been sent.—The clerk who had gone to the station having returned and reported that tne defendant had not arrived, Mr Spaarmao said he could not, under the circumstances, oppose, the granting of a warrant, and Mr Williams asked that one be issued, calling Police-Sergeant Woosnanir who proved the service of the summons.—Mir Spearman said he had made enquiries, and found that Mrs. Kempthorne, the defendant's wife, had beard nothing of him since he went away, except that on August §<»b f^e seoeived a letter in which he expressed regret that the case was not heard at fcb* earliest moment.—A warrant for the arrest of the* rev. couttemum was then issued.