The Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Times

I ST. GEORGE'S. ) BAND CONTEST.—On Monday a braes band contest took place at St. George's on the Grove gounds. Seven bands competed, and before entering the field they played through the crowded streets. The fol- lowing were the bands that entered:—Hanley Town, Silverdale Temperance, Wellenhall Temperance, Wednesbury Temperance, Onward Temperance, West Houghton, and The Rock. The contest piece was "Marino Falerio" (Donnizetti), which was played with good taste by all the bands. The first prize was awarded to West Houghton Band; the second to Hanley; the third to Willenhall; and the fourth to Wednesbury. Mr G. Haines was the judge.

WHAT WAS EXPECTED! THE political event of the past week was -the chucking-out of the Irish Bill by the Lords. Very little interest was taken in the speeches of the noble peers, and as their I retentions had been freely expressed and cwidely known for a long period, the result took no one by surprise. Their Lordships I -thought the Bill so bad that they made no attempt at "mending at," but after four mi g),hts' talk—it could scarcely be called a de- bttte--they summarily" ended" it. Over eighty days were spent in discussing and obstructing; the measure in the Commons, ifcufc the peers (who claim to represent the tru* opinions of the country) took only a twentieth part of that time in showing their unmitigated hatred of the Bill which will in time to come be considered the greatest achievement of the Grand Old Man. The two speeches which arrest the attention as being true endeavours to state the case in a statesmanlike manner, are those of Lords PLAYFAIK. and KOSEBERY. The former peer showed, in his usual lucid manner, the gradual but certain decline under the present condition, of Irish industries, agriculture, and population. "Conquest had failed in producing submission, severity in enforcing tranquility. a:;d indulgence in awakening gratitude." KSorts to widen local govern- ment had over and over again been defeated, chiefly by their Lirdships. Now, those moderate changes attempted must give place to one more profound, and which would be considered almost revolutionary. The present system had failed to produce content and prosperity in Ireland, and the injection of the Bill could not end the demand of four-fifths of the Irish for Home Kule. Lord POSEBEBY s contribution to tne dis- cussion has been termed flipnant. liut was not the whole thing a farce ? The number of Liberal peers were as but onions in a salad, scarce suspected," and it was with an overwhelming force arrayed against him that he had to essay to convince the House of the necessity of passing the Second Reading. The amusing parts of his speech, therefore (in one of which he compared the Marquis of SALISBURY as toreador in a Spanish bull-fight about to give the fatal stroke), may well be excused. Coercion, he observed, was played out. There was practically but one course open, and that was to give to Ireland that which she had set her heart upon. For his own part he was not certain about in regard to Ireland, And although not an enthusiast about Home Rule, he was of opinion that as a question of policy, it would be by far the best to grant it. The Tories mav strenuously fight against it now, but what was their proposal ? If they had a scheme which would effect the objects in view, it would have the hearty support of the Liberal party. Turning to a point cften referred to by the Opposition that of Ireland's position in case of a war- Lord ROSEBEBY showed that it would prove a groot source of weakness, and the 25,000 soldiers now stationed there would require reinforcing to four times that number, and even then probably prove insufficient. To make Ireland contented, and a hi lp in time of ueed to Great Britain, something besides e..erdon bills was necessary. It must be governed according to the wishes and senti- nients of the majority in that country. The bill now before them was a "leap towards the light,not a "leap in the dark "-a leap towards a more generous policy and a reconciliation of nations long divided. But the Lords have preserved the Empire, and by a majority of three hundred and seventy-eight, have rejected the Bill. If it had been proposed by a Tory Premier they wmld have accepted it. But anything which Liberals propose must be bad. Their "reasons" for the rejection were many, but the one harped upon most was that the country was not consulted upon the Bill. The country has never been consulted upon any bill. The policy of Home Rule has been the one central topis during the past seven years, and the bellot boxes revealed a majority in its favour. If not, how is it that a Liberal Government is in power? The action of the Lords will, no doubt, be eventually productive of good. They, like the Bill, will soon be ended, and a Second House, more truly representative of the people's desires and aspirations shall take their place. The Irish question is once more removed from the Parliament to the Nation. A second attempt will perhaps be made to pass it. (although not at the fearful expendi- ture of time which the Opposition has caused in this instance) but the votes of the people will be again necessary to make the Lords give way. Meantime the Government mean to attend to the pressing demandA of British legislation. An autumn session is to be held and the Parish Councils and Employers Liability Bills art, to be pressed through. JCext year, there are half-a-dozen measures of the first importance which will have to be dealt with. Although baulked in their ehief design, the Liberal party will be un- worthy of its traditions if it does not without .delav, have inscribed on the statute book, the laws which are acknowledged to be both accessary and benificent.

THE LIQUOR TRAFFIC. THE Temperance Party will learn with unmin- gled satisfaction that the motion adopted by the Standing Joint Committee, directing the attention of the police to the permission of drunkenness on ltaensed premises, is already beginning to have ,Sifect. This time of year is always one of peculiar interest to temperance advocates, and it is grat- ifying to know that no fre h license has been granted. At the Newtown Petty Sessions on Friday, two publicans were summoned and con- victed f serving liquor to drunken men, and their licenses were ordered to be endorsed. This strict- ness in carrying out the licensing laws may be -cousiderecl harsh, but the Newtown bench are to be complituent-ect on their determination to deal aeverely with all cases which are brought before them. No one would deny that innumerable men get dl-unk daily, and it is certain that in ninety- nine eases out of a hundred they do not get intoxicated in their own homes. The remaining conclusion is that they are served with drink over the bar at a public-house, and any measures which will prevent this pernicious practice should be adopted. If it is known that magistrates are determined to jnuke examples of all innkeepers who 11.1"" found guilty of this offence, it will act as a deterrent, and, with the knowledge that the police have been specially ordered to keep a sharp tlor offenders, much good will be done. His Honour Judge DAVID LEWIS ha. appointed 1 Mr. R. T. GRIFFITHS as registrar of Hay County Court. Mr. GRIFFITHS is an active Liberal, and the appointment is therefore considered an unde- niable proof of the impartiality of the new County Court Judge. WE are pleased to find that Miss BESSIE EVANS, of Builth (who is well-known to Newtown audiences), has won the prize for the contralto solo at the Chicago World's Fair. This is ex- tremely gratifying, especially when the number of competitors and the practically unlimited area from which they were drawn, are considered. Major GODFREY, the former Chief Constable of Montgomeryshire, has found that Welsh anti- tithepayers are, after all, not the most troublf- som" people to deal with. During the past week, the Derbyshire police, of which the Major is head, have had serious conflict with the colliers who are out on strike, and the aid of the military had to be obtained before the disturbers of the peace could be brought to a reasonable frame of mind. Unfortunately, the example of the *Derbyshire colliers has been copied in Yorkshire and South Wales, and property has been damaged to a large extent by the unreason ng mobs.

THE GOVERNMENT DEFEATED. ON Tuesday, while considering Supply, the Government suffered its first defeat. It was not on a matter of great public importance, but on an amendment moved by Mr HANBURY to reduce the salaries of the officials of the iHouse of Lords. The mention of the gilded chamber to the general body of Radical members is sufficient to call up within them a feeling which bodes illjfor that oligarchial assembly and the possessors of its fat offices, and it is gratifying to the whole country —at any rate, to all Liberal electors-that the House decided to dock the salaries of the overpaid dawning when the emolument4 of gentlemen who but underworked officials. The time is rapidly are extravagantly paid and possess high sounding titles for doing practically nothing shall not only be substantially reduced, but for ever abolished.

WELSHPOOL WATER SUPPLY. THE discussion between Welshpool Town Coun- cil and Mr. WYATT, the engineer, over the water supply question still continues. At the August meeting the latter stated that the height of the dam was 4 feet 10 inches, while, with great per- tinacity, Alderman IRoGERS averred that it was but 4 feet 3 inches. Last Tuesday's meeting compelled Mr. WYATT to confess that his assis- tant in measuring the water had made a mistake, a,nd that Alderman ROGERS was correct in his statement. The cause of friction is that a mis take has been committed in the work-by whom it is uncertain-and the Council naturally desires to see their original scheme carried out. There is little ground for surprise that several members are anxious to known when the work is to be com- pleted, and Councillor PRYCE JONES suggested Christmas as a probable period. Works which hang fire are apt to prove costly undertakings.

THE FOOTBALL SEASON. The Newtown Football team made a successful appearance for the first time of the season against Shrewsbury Town, which club they severely de- feated by ten goals to none. The home club ,has arranged a splendid lot of matches with good I teams, and during the winter many a hard tussle will be fought out on the Cunnings. As a whole the team is weakened through the loss of an ex- cellent back, but the Club receives into, its ranks a first-class player in the pe-rson of Dr. DAVIES, of Machynlleth. It is unfortunate that the finances of the Club are m rather an unsatisfac- tory condition, and the HON. SEC. appeals for tUe practical support of the townsfolk by their pres- ence at the matches. The inhabitants of New- town are justly proud of the achievements of the team, and we fully believe that the public will give hearty support by voice and pocket. With such there need be no fear as to the result of the season's matches, either successfully or financially.

THE CHOLERA. THE outbreak of cholera at Grimsby and Hull should cause the public authorities throughout the county to pay special attention to matters of drainage. A few pounds spent in disinfectants would not be a useless investment. "We are sorry that Newtown does not shine as a brilliant spot for its perfection in sanitation. It has on the Local Board many who are earnestly desirous of raising the sanitary status, but we know the town is notorious on account of the bad smells which pervade the best streets and the dirtiest alleys. Too much attention cannot be paid to houses wilerein are located cases of infectious diseise, and the Local Board would be wise in supplying free disinfectants to cleanse the drains, and protect the inhabitants from contracting ail- ments, which by reasonable precautions can be prevented. At least every effort should be made and no expense spared to place the town, as far as human skill can, beyond the reach of this terrible scourge. It is satisfying to know that Newtown has an energetic Medical Officer of Health, and if one tithe of his recommendations were only carried out, much cause of complaint would be removed.

ECONOMY, A FINE ART. By their action on Wednesday the Newtown and Llanidloes Guardians have earned a special mark of distinction. Greatness always delights in singularity. A month ago the Board decided to grant J65 in aid of the funds of the Newtown Nursing Association, but in the lapse of time, like the fickle youths of an impressionable age, they have discovered they were unacquainted with their own minds, and have withdrawn their gift. It is not usually the practice of public bodies to rescind motions without a principle of the very highest importance is involved, and despite the unnecessary stress which was laid upon the large- ness of the question, any unprejudiced person would not attempt to argue that the gift of £ 5 to an exceptionally deserving institution was sufficient to warrant the decision of the Board. Newtown comprises one-third of the population of the Union, and would contribute £ 1 1-Js. 4-a. out of the £ 5, leaving the remainder of the Union j to find J23 6s. 8d., which was the foundation of a. principle so high, said one member, that the Board had no right to debate it! Anyone would think to judge of the speeches made that the Board was paying the whole expenses attendant upon carrying on the society. Rural Guardians regard Newtown as specially favoured, though for what reason is incomprehensible. One argu- ment for refusing the gift was that if Newtown were honoured with the sum of .£5, other places would make similar applications. Surely the Board would not regret if similar associations were formed all over the Union. The people of Newtown know the benefit derived from its Nursing Institution, and would rejoice in paying its fulL share of the cost. It is amusing to read the arguments adduced for recision. It is un- f necessary to again point out the splendid work which the Nursing Association performs, and this the Board recognised but only offered platonic Sympathy. If the Board really thought an un-1 wise step had been taken in granting an hono-, rarium of £ 5, how mutfh better would it have been if discontented members had iheld their peace until another application wae made ?

N EWTOWN AND:LLANLLWCHAIARN i OCAL BOARD- ADJOURNED MEETING.—Friday.—Present: Capt. Edward Pryce-Jones (chairman), Messrs G. H, Ellison, Cornelius Morgan, David Lewie, Evan Ashton, David Owen, W. Francis, H. Lewie, T. Jones and A. S. Cooke; with Mr Wm. Cooke (clerk), and Mr R. W. Davies (surveyor.) SANITARY COMMITTEE'S REPORT. The Surveyor read the report of the above commit- tee which stated that they hai considered the circular from the Local Governmenb Board in refer- ence to the Kivera Pollution Prevention Act, but the committee did not think it applied to Newtown. They were anxious to prevent deposits being made on the banks of the Severn, and for that purpose suggested that posts should be put down to prevent carts entering upon the bank. The committee stated they had given instructions to the Surveyor to report the full particulars as to the number and the depth of shallow pump wells there were in the town, and :n respect to the last report of the Medical Officer of i Health, the Surveyor was directed to place veniiiating) shafts in various parts of the town The Chairman proposed its adopticn. He said there was scarcely anything in the report which any member could take exception to, bat there might be one or two matters which needed a little explanation, lhe first pait of the r-poi t dealt with the Rivers Pol- lution Prevention Act of 1893, which the committee did not think appiied to Newtown, but more to towns that did not po-sess sewoiage works. Referring to the deposits made on the hanks of the Severn, he isaid he thought the beat means to take to perma- nantly prevent the carting of refuse was to erect posts at intervals of a few feet from one another, and oy that means the committee thought they would effectually prevent a recurrence of the nuisance, by making it imposeible for carts to go on the banks of the river at all. They all knew it had been a nui- sance in the past, and there was a great outcry against these deposits, but the committee hoped in tixe the banks of the river might become a pleasure- able resort, although at the present time they were unable to make any recommendations in that direc- tion. With regard to the letter from the Local Government Board anent the Medical Officer's an. nual report, ventilating shafta had been ordered to be erected in certain parts of the town, and the COlO. mittee had reminded the Surveyor to report. They recommended the Boird to adopt the Public Health Amendment Act, 1890, and the Chairman of the sani- tary committee reminded him that for the reason that the Act had not been adopted, the bands of the committee were tied with regard to remedying cer- taiu evils which existed. Mr Ellison seconded. He referred to the erection of the posts on the banks of the Severn, which the committee considered the only means to prevent de- posits being made on the banks in the future. He thought it was a disgrace to Newtown for the nui- sance to have been allowed to exist so long (hear, hear). All manner of refuse was placed there. When he was Chairman of the Board he went aloug the banks of the river accompanied by the Medical Officer of Health, and he saw then stagnant pools of water, re- tuae of every description, and filth, which was in- jurious to good health. It was quite true that a oiiower of rain would remove the nuisance, but the% were continually arising, and the only effectual m-eans of putting an end to them was to erect the posts. A similar idea was carried out in regard to evern Green, and it proved successful in preventing the recurrence of nuisances. <. o Mr Francis: What will they do with the retueer I suupose it i their look oat. Mr Ellison: Certainly. Mr David Owen How about our stones? Mr Ellison: The Committee will make arrange- ments, Mr Owen failed to see eye to eye with the com- mittee upon the recommendation to put down posts, in order that it might become a pleasurable resort. It struck him betore it could become anything of that sort there would have to be many thousands ot tons of stuff put there to form it into any shape. With that view he was of opinion that it should remain open for 20 or 50 years so that everj body 0-juld cart as much as they liked to form the bank n< z(.,we degree a pleasurable resort. f Mr Morgan supported the committee a report, tie tnew the river banks for mauy years had been a perpetual nuisance. It was now, and Dr Pa.ler nail no hesitation in certifying it dangerous to ieatth. He was astonished tbat, the ovmers of tM property had not taken action against the offendtre, aud tie was sorry to say the Local Buard had -been the greatest transgressors. an, t! thing to exist, and he thought the Board should take •teps to make the entrance to the town as attractive and clean as was: possible. 'y- The Chairman When we speak of the place am a pleasurable resort we do not speak of anything iteeiv to take place in the immediate future. Mr Morgan We do not tpeak of a football ground of course (laughter). j, /■ The Chairman: At the present moment it is a standing nuisance and a standing disgrace to the town, on account of the rubbish which is tipped on the banks. The spot reached the eye of the visitor to the town within a few minutes ot his arrival, and those who lived at Newtown had to bear the brunt ot the odour fr.m there. He did not see how Mr Davi\. Owen could prevent the nuisance better than by put- ting down tne pot-ta, exoept by erecting a Wall or woolen fence. They hoped in time that grass would grow on the banks, and that Mr Owen would present to the town some of his iron seats (laughter). The motion was then put and t;.rried. ar Davio Owen dissenting.. Mr FranciB Odd man out (loud laughter). Mr D. Owen Is a man to vote contrary to h,.s win and understanding? Mr Morgan All right. He only said odd man out" (renewed laughter). STREET COMMITTEE'S REPORT. The Surveyor next read the report of the above committee, which was to the effect that a letter be written to the Newtown Gas Company, asking tu«m to inform the Board under what Act or Provisional Order tney were acting in lajing down mams «na breaking up the streets, and tbo committee recom- mended that they be empowered by the Board to consult a solicitor, if necessary, after receiving tone Gas Company's letter.. M VA In moving its adoption, m the absence of Mr HM. Jones, the Chairman said that one part 10 the electric light. A very lengthy report had been received from the electricians upon the cost ot up- plying the town with the IIlectric light. The cost was something lets than what the bouro paid t-r gas BY adopting the electric light the town would gain many advantages, which, of course, gas could no* claim It was healthier and there was leas danger, wiiile it gave forth very little heat, which was a great boon. The committee, however, did not recommend any action. At the present time they regarded electricity in its infancy, and that ere long great strides would be made, and the electric light would probably be able to be taken advantage of at a cheaper coi-t that, at present. The committee were hopeful as to com- ing to better terms with the Gas Company, both as regards the price the B,)ard paid and the price charged to small cor. sumers. The paragraph Nita-, ed the subject be adjourned for six month?. He turned up at the committee meeting rather late, and he was i, formed that the matter was adjourned ludthnitet*. Mr Morgan That was rotourintoiution. The Chairman said the other part of the report made ft recommendation to the Cambrian Railway Company, requesting thorn to keep alight their gas lamp in Station-road. The speaker next referred to the Act under which the Gas Company named on their work. and said the Coinmitt-e recommend that t'ae Clerk be requested t,) write, asking the Company under what powers they at preset carried on their undertaking, and Oil receipt of a reply they asked to be allowed to consult a solicitor upon the subject. By receiviug the reply from the Gas Company tirll. and epinw to a solicitor afterwards, the Commit.tee hoped to°set eucb knowledgo from the legal gentle- man by oue visit as would enable them to ma*« a re- nort to the Board which would be beneficial to the Jone^ complained that the gas at present had got no illuminating power at all. He never saw such gas before in his life. He seconded the report. Mr Morgan The Committee have noticed the point vou have raised. Mr D Owen did not like the cluuse for the Oom- mittee to have power to apply to a solicitor. They had worked for a gre»t number of years without a Solicitor, and it struck him very forcibly that tbey damaged themselves in the potion they now held m moving to report to a solictor. If the Chairmen of past Boards had carried on their work effectually, why could not the Chairman of the present B ard du it. Let them, however, see that it was au absolute necessity to resort to a solicitor, and th-t there was no other possible way out of the difficulty, tho-Ti nothin* else would bj left them bnt 10 run into. trouble—trouble he called it. Mr Morgan said the Comm'ttee only asked for per- mission to go to a solicitor, if necessary, and turely all Boards, or Corporations, or societies had some little confidence in their committees. they were not going to foolishly rush to consult a lawyer. I here were various Acts of Parliament to read, and the Chairman, whom ha cor.gra'uiated upon bei'.g • member of the Bar of England, had saiu they cj.uld not proceed an 1 would come to a standstill, and tho Committea found it was so. He di. Rot ask to oon- suit a solicitor any time and at all I l".y a difficult question to deal wi'li, uud he thought the Beard should have some confidence in lhe vu.ws ot the gentlemen on the committee appointed to con- 81 Mr Davixfowen I should like tbe Committee to explain the difficulty they are ia, and let the whole Board know what is the matter. Mr Morgan: When you fight a batt'e, it is not well I to let the enemy see your hand. ) Mr D. Ow-n Well, we are in the dark, that is all I have got to say. I Mr W. Lewis said that at the last meeting of the Board the permission asked for was refused, and he thought it rather unfair for the committee to ask to be empowered to consult a solicitor without bringing the matter before the Board again. He thought, unless he misunderstood the report, that there should be some communication received from the Gas Com- pany before power was given to consult a solicitor. The Chairman: There is a great diffi ulty in ascer- taining the Board's position. You will remember that at the last meeting of the Brard 1 took a strong view, and now after a special committee has bet-n appointed to go into tiie matter, there still remains members of thu Boar 1 who will nut support au inde- pendent committee. By continually writiug letters to first one body and theu ancthir, what does it mean? Our water question has b» eu before us for 18 months or two years, and we are doing exactly the sami with this, taking a poerastiuaiing course over ttie In 1; the gas works. The nights are becoming long and dark, tho gas is burning to the satisfaction of some and the dissatisfaction of others, and will you be content to put this matter off in order to save six and eightpence? Gentlemen, will you all. w me to pay tiie six and eightpence ? Mr D. Oweu I say No." Y"W?" .L1_- -& i ne utiairinaii, wnatever may ue we iri'm the Gas Company you will have to con-ult a solicitor before you can give a definite answer. It is very discouraging, exceedingly discouraging to members of the committee—the Chairman has to meet with many dideourag,iig things—to tin t that they attend the committee regularly an i other iiiembers do not, and then at the Board meetings they finei their labour is not appreciated. Now, cm I in any way prevail upon you to give us your confidence? Mr C,)oke said there seemed to be a little misunder- standing. He supposed that the cowmittee, had met and found there were points which they could not settle of course. At the laat meeting of the Board he strongly objected to consulting a solic.tor before the committee had met, but he had said tbeu that if the committee met and found there were points upon which it was necessary to consult a solicitor, he had 1,0 doubt but that the Board would sa:;ction the com- mittee to go to a solicitor. He understood the com- mi .tee had met and found there were difficult matters to settle, and he really thought the Board should support the committee and give them power to confer wita a legal gentleman. He was personally opposed to consulting a solicitor until it was absolutely necessary to do so. Mr W. Lewis said the Chairman had misunderstood his remarks, and that upon the knotty points in the matter, after the committee bad met and found out what they were, they should have power to consult a solicitor. The motion was then put and carried nem. con. PENNING SHEEP. Mr David Lewis had given noti3e of the following mor.ion Tha.t the Board allow sheep pens to be erected on the slope. High-street, for the next 3 fairs." In moving the motion, he said he thought the Board should have some better provision made for penning shet-p in Newtown. He did not think the penning had ever been extra good, but he considered that since the paving had been put down that it was worse than what it used to be. Formerly sheep were penned on the slope of ground inhiiih-street, but stnee the street had been paved farmers had been oompdlled to send their sheep up the Back Lane. When the sheep were penned on the slope of ground in High-street they looked a pretty regular lot, but now they had to take them down the Lane the farmers could not sell them to such un advantage, for some were standing on the path and others in the watercourses. Mr Ellison had been talking of having an alteration in the pens in the Back Lane, and he had been waiting for it to come foiward. A great many of the farmers complained about the bad way in which the pens were put up, and they had asked him to bring the m-tter forward. There was a lot of waste ground in High street, not used for anything particular, alJd on to which the cattle went on fair days, and if farmers were adnwd to put their sheep there, it would be a great benefit to them and no harm to anybody else. It was a good place to show the sheep, and as they useo to allow the pens to be put down in High-street, he moved that the Brard allow the farmers the privilege of i putting pens there for the next three fairs. It would b? an Mperimant, and no damage would be done, provide^the place was cleaned as soon as the sheep were ouii Mr Evan Ashton seconded. MR-JD. Owen supported. If there was any benefit for the poor oppreesod farmer it w»» h gCi time he should have it. It would ba a considerable advantage t the farmers to tthow their sheep on that side of High-street, where they used to be. It could be tried as aa experiment for the next three fairs, and it would be no detriment or inconvenience to anybody. ?i(f',¡Coolí:. afd every member ot the Hoard was willing to do anything in tht:ir power to ass st the farmers in every possible way. He thought, however, it would be a great pity if the sheep werM brought again itrw the High-street. He would rather see the traffic in the Back-lane stopped, and the whole of the road ntilised for penning sheep. Mr Ellison agreed with Mr Cooke that the Board W&tI witifng to help the farmers, especially in these times of depression, If High-street were big enough to pen aH the sheep he should be favourable to the mo ion. but he thought if it were a-N-psed there would be a certain amount of favouiiti-m, if some laheep- were, ikilowed to be penned there and not others. • U:>• ler the circumstances it wou'd be better to at liae the whole of the Back-lane, whicli was one of his former schemes. Mr Francis contended that the sheep would not do Iny more harm to High-stieet than did the cattle. There w-tk no question that the sheep showed up to better advantage in High-street than B ck-lane. Messrs. W. Lewis, C. Morgan, and T. es also supported Mr Ellison's suggestion, Fine, ultimately Mr Oavid Lewis accepted the amendment, it being open to him, if the experiment did not work satis- factorily, to bring the matter up again at the next meeting. Mr A. S. Cooke then brought up the question of clearing, away the di,t consequent upon holding the sheep fair. At the Victoria Hall meeting, he said, it was stated that the Board aniic pated earning fr,,rn the sheep pens .£70 or .£80 ner year. Did not the Board think they might purchase the pens and take the profit that would accrue with the tolls? If the Board had to e'ean the stieets after each fair, and a few tradesmen of High-st-eet got ail the profit, what sense c()uld there be ? Itse&med a most nufair thing. He did not see why the Local Board should not. become owners of the pens, iind then they could, while making a profit, make a reduction in the tolls. Mr Francis: If we place the p*rs down the centre of the Back Lane who is going to rec ive the tolls ? f'he Chairman I ought to be entitled to half. Mr Fcfcreis And you would hand it over to the Local Board? The Onwirman With pleasure. Mr T. Jones said theie were plenty r,f persons who would tak» the pens from the Local B. a-d and give them a good sum for the privilege of put ting them down. The Chairman pointed out that before the Board eanld buy the penf, or levy tolls, there would have to be a tneeting of ratepayers. It wis decided to allot spaces f r the sfceop pena in the Bank Lltne. the work being left in the r ands of I the Street Committee and the Surveyor; F, nd it was also ordered that the pen-holder* ba tsaed to clean the streets after thy fair was over.

'• TttEFEGLWYS. PLEASING PRESENTATION.—On Wednesday, the 30th utt,the Rev Henry Pritchard, s-nperiniendent mi, ist-er of Welsh Wesleyan Circuit, w»s presented wi,hglbe.autifully iiluminated ad ress on the occa- sion <<t 'his leaving Trefeglwys Circuit, Rev. David Jones, O.M., presided over the meeting, ar; i referred in salogist c terms to the ability and zeal which their depar'Uig f iend bad exerei-c(i on behalf of his Church. H« also exprersed the hope t!:at the rev. gentlemen would be successful in h.s labours at Tre- degar, in which circuit he intended to work. Other friends and members of the churches also delivered addresses, referring to the general regret of the neighbour hood at the departure of Mr Pritchard from their midst.,

HRA y ADR, FkT c.The members of the Liurel Frif n, Society held their fe e on Tuesday last. A p-o -es.-ion was forme I, henid by tho L'anirindod Bras Band, whtcfi paraded through t!-1e strecis, an-i attended service at Cwmdauddwr Church, where the Rev W. H. Evans conducted tho service. Con>id^rab:y over a 100 members attended, and e*oli member wore a laurel leaf. ALa the dinner, whirdi was provided at I tht- Liofr note;, an adjournment was mide to the I sports' field, the result Den g as follows Football oolitesV-winners, "Howdy Dowdy Boys," Rhay-ader 1^0 yard? race, 1st heat, 1, C. R. Pilot, Newtown 2. f. E. Earner, Rhayador; 2nd heat, 1, A. Woosna'o, Abbey Cwmliu; 2, W. Davies, Rhayader,final, 1, C. R. Pilot, Newrown; 2, J. E. Hamer, Rh.iva:l< r 3,* Wooosniim. 440 yards race, I. C. R. IPilot; 2, Evan ,\1< irgan Nantyrhaidd; 3, W. D-Jvi-s. Bicycle r»e>\ 1, Lewit\ Hope, Builth; I 2. Th.intS. Builth. One mile r,.e, 1, Evau Morc'ii, Uintyrdaidd 2, A P w. u, L undrindod 3 J E. Haraer. 440 vi-ris ùhtacJe rac. 1. Ben; Dories Nai^gwilt,; John Francis, Rhayader. One mit. irOo'ing i,,atoli for ppnie* under 13 hands, 1,1 T. Matthews, Llandrindod 2, Edward Uoyd, Cefn, Peoyboiit. One mile trotting race (.ipen) 1. Thomas L^wis, -Cat;! 1c, Uhayaler; 2, W. Morgan, Nauerth- irwjdd.

MACHYNLLETH. ANOTHER COLLECTION.—A vestry meeting was held at the Parish Church on Thursday, when it was decided to make a sanitary rate of 9d. in the X. A PRIMROSE LEAGUE FREE TEA.—A free tea and entertainment was given to all the members of the Machynlleth Habitation of the Primrose League, in the Vane Hall, on Wednesday. The tables were prettily decorated, and loaded with delicncies, pro- vided by Mr Lloyd, Lledfair House. The guests wants were seen to by the Marchioness of London- derry, Mrs Anwyl, Mrs Dr Davies, Mrs Evans, Fronygog, Mrs Edward, Rbiwlas. Miss Beresford, Mrs Lloyd Jones, Bank, Mrs Williams, Rectory, Peuegoes, Mrs Adam Evans and Miss Evans, Miss Wakefield, Mrs Edmunds, Mrs Sangers, Miss Wil- liams, Skinners Arms, Mrs Jones, Miss Griffiths, Mount Pleasant, Mrs Cruthers, Mrs Vangban Owen, Miss Reese, and Miss Griffi'.hs, School. The meal was followed by an excellent entertainment, over which Mr Sackville Phelps, Newlands, presided. In the course of the evening addresses were given by Mr A. Yane-Tempest, Mr Fiucharm, provincial secre- tary of the society for North Wales, and Mr Pettifer (delegate from the Grand Council). Mrs Lascellee, Penmaen Dovey, rendered in good voce, "The Lights of Home." and Mr R. Gillart contributed two songs. Mr Mildwyn Humphreys WHS applhuded for his song, The Midshipmite." Mra Dr Davies accompanied the artistes. Votes of thanks were accorded the ladies, the chairman, speakers and vocalists, the proceedings closing with the National Anthem.

LLANWYDDELAN. SCHOOL BOARD.—The ordinary meeting of the above Board was held at Upper Mill, Llanllugan, on Thursday evening. There were present The Rev W. Benjamin, chairman, Mr Evan Evans, vice-chair- man, Mr Evan Bennett, Mr Evan Watkin, Mr R. Davies, Rev. Cad. Williams, Mr Thos. Getbin, with Mr Evan Morris (clerk), and Mr John Williams (at- tendance officer).-The minutes of the previous Board meeting were confirmed.-The reports of H.M Inspector were carefully considered, which directed the serious attention of the Board to the irregularity of attendance at school by many of the children. The Board resolved itself into committee to consider the best metliods to adopt, not wishing to summons the negligent parents if such action could possibly be avoided.—The application of Mr R. W. Roberts for an advance in his salary was deferred for a month.— A list of requirements for Pantycrai School was granted, together with sewing materials for Cwm School.—H.M. Inspector's report on the Pant-, ci-ai School was as follows :-The scholars in the stan- dards have been fairly instructed in the elementary subjects and in geography. English and needlework will be expected to show an improvement next y ar to secure a grant. Infants, too, will need more at- tention. Special attention is requested to H.M. In- spector's remarks in reference to the improvements of the school premises and the irregularity of the at- tendance.—The Cwm School report was as follows The condition of this school is not quite satisfactory. The attendance is irregular, and the attainments of a large proportion of the scholars are low, especially when their age is considered. The geography was barely passable. The number of specimens of knit- ting was veey small, and the girls were very slow in doing their knitting exercises. Considerable general improvements will be expected in the school mxt year or it will have to be pronounced inefficient.

LLANDINAM. SUNDAY SCHOOL MEETING -The Calvinistic Methodists held their Sunday School hi-monthly meeting at Llandicam on Sunday week. There was a large attendance throughout the day, and in the I evening the chapel was crowded, and a large number could not obtain admittance. Mr Richard Jones and Mr R. W. Davies represented the Newtown Schools Mr Juseph Lloyd, Carno; Mr Evans and Mr D. Watkin, Gleiniant; Mr J. Tudor, Sarom Mr F. G. Jones and R. Watkins, Caerewa. The Rev. D. LL Jones, Llandinam. opened the morning meeting, the Welsh classes reciting the 14th chapter of St. John's Gospel, on which Mr D. Ll. Jones questioned toem. In the afternoon the children were examined on a chapter in the Mother's Gift." At the evening meeting the adult classes were examined on the "The resurrection of Christ, and the general resurrection." The answering was good. Mr Rees Jones, of Car- diff, and Mr Richard Jones, of Newtown, gave short addresses. In the afternoon very pretty hymns were sung from School Praise," and in the evening the choir sang the anthems Gratitude" and The Resurrection in a most praiseworthy manner. Miss Jones, Brynhafren, presided at the organ, and Mr Jerman conducted the singing during the day. The following shows the attendance at each sehool for the eight weeks ending June 25th:-Corrist, 84 per cent. Cefncoch, 70^; Landinam, 69; Caerews, 6í!; Gleiniant, 66j Cledau and Saron, 65J Peniel, 64, Dreflan Carno, 60; Salem, 55 Rhiwen, 54J Peny- ffryd, 50 Newtown, 40}. Average number of verses committed to memory byeach member present for the same period: -Penyffry dd, 62 Salem, 60; Saron, 55; Gleiniant, 46 £ Rhiwen, 40 Peniel, 38 Dreflan, 37; Llandinam, 36 Cerrist Caersws, and Cledan, 30; Newtown, 25i Cefncoch, 13 and one-seventh.

MIDDLETOWN. WESLEYAN SCHOOLROOM.—On Thursday week thø memorial stones of a new school adjoining the Wesleyan Chapel at Middletown were laid by Mr Withers, Miss Boffey, and Messrs J. E. and J. U. Hilditch. There was a large company present. The school, which is a pretty design, is to be built of red bricks. Amongst those present were the Rev. G. W. Dawson (superintendent (f the circuit), and Mrs Dawson, the Rev. R. W. Lowry (Montgomery), the Rev. J. Wright (Welshpool), and the Rev. Thos. Orto-i; Messrs Withers, Thos. Jab-. z, and Ricnard Parry, R. Twist, senr, R. Twist, junr., C. Payne (Sr.rewsburj), and 1c Evans (Yyestlej). The archi- tec;, is Mr John Potter of Welshpool, and the builder Mr Evan Davies. Biicks were laid by Messrs R Twist, senr., and junr., J. H. Twist, E. Bishop, W. DAV.es. Thomas and R. Parry, and Miss Nellie Parry, and Miss Mary Williams. A meeting was afterward-i held in the chapel, where an address was delivered by the Rev. T. Orton, and in the evening a teL was held, to which about 150 sat down. The tea makers were Mrs W. Parry (Hinton), Mri J-L--mes Parry, Miss Jones (The Fartn, Middletown), and Miss A. Hughes, as-<ife^ed by Mrs Parry, Miss H lditch, Miss A. Hilditch, Miss J. Hughes, Miss Griffiths, Mizs M. Parry, and Miss Richards. Addresses were given by the Rev. W. G. Dawson, the Rev. Thos. urton and others. It wa announced that the cost of the school would be £ 150, and towards this sum .£93 14s tas been collected.

BISHOPS' CASTLE. DROPPED DEAD WHILE DIGGING POTATOES.—A p.irifiii,y sudden oeatti touk place on Tuesday at a smail hnoi;et known as the "Leasty," situated about halt-way between Clun and Bishops Castle. A labouring maii liamed U m Jones, aged 53years, was digging potatoes in a gardeu, ana while thus engaged d.oppeJ dawn dead. A little trirl saw deceased lying on the ground and toid a neighbour, who, on going to the deceased, found that he was dead. SHOCKING -UICIDE.-On Monday considerable excitement was manifested in this town by the report that a labourer named Edward Thomas had com- mitted suicide by hanging himself. The report un- fortunately proved true. Thomis was fouud in his cottage on Castle Green suspended by a dog chain and quite dead. An inquest was held on Wednesday, when a son of the deceased identified the body. De- ceased was 65 years of age, and had been out of work for a fortnight.—Another witness eaid that he saw deceased in the Bull, and he was quite sober. He asked witness to have a glass with tnm, but witness declined and deceased said It may be the last. .Time Jones said she had bepn sewing a bet for the deceased, and wet,t about 6-30 to give it him and foui.d him hanging on the stairs, biie had noticed tha-, of late he had been indifferent in his manuer.- Toe jury returned a verdict to the efli-ct that de- feased committed suicide when suffering from temporary insamtv.

LLAFAIR-CAEHEINION. SCHOOL BOAR D,-WKDNESDAT. Members present: Rev. John Evans, chairman; Messrs. C. W. Humphreys, vice-chairman; Nathaniel D. T. Watkias, Altred Davies, and W. Story, clerk, SCHOOL REPORTS. The Clerk read M.M. Inspector's reports on the Llanfair and Rbiwhir^aeth -chools, which were con- sidered sa icfactory by the Board, the higher grant having being earned at both schools. Toial grants earned at Llanfair was CI47 h. 0d Ehiwhiriaeth ,£;;9 19. Od X97 was a so allowed as f^e-grant on account of the two schools. A lengthy ciscussijn took place in the portion cf the report U11 t! e Llanfair School having reference to the deficient infant accommodation. H.M. Inspector lecommenda that the present infants' room should be used as a ciass-room for the older children, and that a new ilfaint room be built on a site as near the present school as practicable. -T lie Chairman proposed and Mr Alfred Davies seconded, that application be made to the Managers of the National School to place their school under tho Boa:d, and to use as aj infant school. This )e-olution was agreed to. SCHOOL FUllNITU KiS. It was agreed to carry out the nstiuctions of H.M. Iaspec:or forthwith, with regard to certain furniture specified in the report. MONITORS. Willie Davies, Hassell-sqaare and Maggie Ann Ashley, Tyullwyn were appointed monitors for the Llanfair school. BILLS. Orders were made for the payment of several bills,

CORRESPONDENCE. RADICAL—The quotation you are in search of is to be found in Part I, Canto I, of Butler's liudibmik, and reads thus "Compound for siis they are in- clined to, by damning those chey have no mind to." The task you impose upon us of making it clearer is, we should have imagined, unnecessary, t-ut it may be paraphrased Condemning sins which you do not commit, because you do lor wish to, and so easing y,uur conscience of those which you are guilty of."

THE ROBERT OWEN MEMORIAL. To the Editor of the Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Tímøs. Sir,-T-I have often wondered why we have so much talk and so little work done at the Newtown Local Board meetings. This week we have more light on. the subject, and we find that they are all lawyers, 80 as soon as the opportunity occurs I would suggest that we dispense with a few of them. On the other hand, sir, I notice you said in your notes you did not admire the tone of a certain letter published in your columus a few weeks ago. Well, tone or no tone, I am extremely pleased to find that the Chairman of the Board has taken up the question of a memorial to the late Robert Owen so earnestly and enthusiastically, and I sincerely hope the thing will poon be an accom- plished fact. Of this I have no doubt, as I hear that he has called to his aid some of the late Robert Owen's most ardent admirers, and that they have already had oue or more all-night sittings. Trusting the gallant Captain will have your sympathy and help as well as that of the community at large.-Yours truly, LIGHT. Newtown, Sept. 8, 1893.

A WOMAN ON THE DRINK QUESTION. ro the Editor of the Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Times. Sir,-Berriew airs her grievances. Kindly give ne space for mine. During the last few years I have seen homes broken up and families reduced to poverty Lhrough drink alone, and it the existing Biate of things is to go on unchecked, there will be more. It is not a very uncommon occurence to see men oa th* premises of "respectable licensed houses" for days together in a muddled state of drunkenness, quite unfit for all the duties of life. Some of the men, alas, have families dependent upon them, but cheer up ye sufferers, by such conduct your country is awake to the fact that it is not only taking the time and. money, but the very life-blood cf her sons to keep this respectable body of publicans io prosperity so she is weeding them out. The County Council has. sounded your first note of deliverance.and may it not ceaao until it is a perfect song of freedom. UBSERVER.

SUNDAY DRINKING AT WKLSHPOOL. To the Editor of the Montna.iieryshire Express and Radnor Times. Sir,—I notice the Deputy-Chief Constable's report at the Brewster Sessions in your last issue states that the licensed tioue- have been conducted satis- factorily throughout tne year, and the justices pre- sent renewed the whole of the licenses. Now, I should like to call the attention of the public, through the medium of your valuable paper, to the wholesale drinking traffic which is carried on Sunday after Sunday. Granting, that out of 141 persons convicted ot drunkenness (which is a decrease of six compared with the previous report), it must realize that more have been convicted accordingly. Evi- dently some urgent measure is needed to cope witn this dire evil, but m >re particularly the drinking trade which is carried on on Sunday. The sitting justices ought to be aware that intox catine liquors are got from some quarter or another on that day, and with all due regard to the police, there is ample evidence that some licensed houses ought to be watched with more care than at present. If a raid were made on one or two, it wonld induce some others to be more careful as regards their six days' license. Why do not the teetotal friends move in the matter ?-Yours, etc., JUSTICE.

NEWTOWN FOOTPATHS. To the Editor of the Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Times. Sir,—Permit me to enquire, through the ooiumrs of your valuable paper, what action has been taken by our Local Board iu regard to the footpaths in this district. Surely, the whole energy of that illustrious body has not been used up, in drawing out the advertisement which appeared in the Express some months ago and it cannot be from lack of informa- tion. Some of the members of theBoard will remem- ber when there was a walk up both sides of the river, from Severn Green to Milford, and on the one side the path is, open at present for the g-eater part of the way. Bat whilst strolling in that direction the other d&Y.. I was surprised to find that, our Local Board bad themselves placed a substantial obstruc- tion across the ;path in tiie share of a barbed wire force near the celebrated bathing shed. I am also told that an obstruction put up by a member of the Board at the entrance of anotbw public path has only been partially re-moved, *%A I oan myself speak of the disgraceful condition offlfew path during last winter. Trusting some action will betaken it; regard to this most important, matter.— I am, yours truly, A YOUNG KAKBLBR.