The Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Times

J a brighter PROSPECT. THE meeting of the Montgomeryshire Liberal Association on Tuesday marks, we hope, the beginning of the re-union of the party in die boroughs. The attitude which fjfta been adopted in regard to the selection 4f a candidate has made the Montgomery Boroughs a bye-word in other counties, w bile the breach which has occurred between prominent leaders has been a source of infi- nite satisfaction and delight to our oppo- nents. Judging from the conciliatory tone ef the speeches made by the Tracyite party, Mr. RICHARD LLOYD leading off, it is evident that they at last realise, equally with the other section of the party, that without indi- vidual co-operation and united exertion, fighting the seat would be seeking for fail- ure. The strained relationships between political if rionda, who in the past have worked side by side, each striving to outdo his comrade in the cause of Liberalism, is a source of pain and anxiety to many friends of the party. Dr. Moaais fairly put the case when he said that both sides should be prepared to come together again by making concessions. Unless the leaders of the sec- tions are willing to do this the chance of victory is almost as remote as a man being able to climb to the top of the North Pole. It was satisfactory to note that at the meet- ing not a single syllable was mentioned con- cerning the Hon. F. S. A. HANBURY-TRACY, and from a combination of circumstances which have lately arisen, it may be inferred that the hon. gentleman is not likely to wish to become the Liberal candidate at the next election. If our assumption is true then there is no insurmountable difficulty in the way of reconciliation. The object of the meeting was to rescind a resolution passed at a meeting of the As- sociation, held on July 14th, which pro- tided that only borough representatives should take part in the selection of a borough candidate, but that each borough should have equal representation. The motion was rescinded, and we are in entire agreement with Newtown and Llanidloes in their de- sire to get such an unfair motion rendered of no effect. As before stated, it is in direct opposition to the principles of Liberalism. We believe in equal representation, that is, in every individual having the same amount of voting power, but not in a small borough having as much power as the largest. borough. For this reason—it is not a ques- tion of the representation of the borough, but of the Liberals who reside within its limits. For example, if Newtown possesses 500 Liberals and Montgomery 100, it is manifestly absurd to argue that the latter town deserves an equal voice in the manage- ment of affairs. The 100 Radicals may be as sturdy as their colleagues in Newtown and may desire the success of the party with equal ardour, but they cannot be said by thus doing to have established a right to have as much power in the selection of a candidate as the borough whose register shows five times as many voters. If the candidate chosen has not the support of the lesser borough when the act of selection takes place, he has a right to expect it when he comes before the constituency. On the other hand, if the candidate selected is a man whose fidelity to Liberal principles and the party programme is doubted, the dis sentients are perfectly justified in with-hold- ing their support, and for the sake of party unity such a candidate should not be thrust upon the constituency. It is hoped that the new selection committee will come to a de- cision which shall meet with the united sup- port of all Radicals, and secure a man who will represent the national aspirations of Wales, a zealous politician, one who can in- spire his followers with courage and lead the way into battle, and before such an array the seat can be wrested from the Tory party.

MONTGOMERYSHIRE LIBERAL ASSOCIATION. A special meeting of this Association was held in the "Victoria Hall, on Tuesday. There were present Messrs William Davies, Berriew, J. Godfrey Bowea, Llangurisr, J. W. Foulkes Jones, Machynlleth, Stephen Higgs, Carno, W. Jones, Lianfyllin, Edwd. Jones, Trewythen, Edward Jones, Meifod, Robert Jones, Llanfair, David Jones, Trefeglwya, Richard Tilsley, Caeraws, E. R. James and John Powell, Montgomery, J. W. Clayton, David Owen, T. Parry Jones, R. Lloyd, W. R. Grindley, C. E. Clarke, Dd. Hamer, Martin Woosnam, C. J. Newell, John Hughes, John Edwards, J. Humphreys, and Thomas Phillips, of Newtown, Evan Williams, Llandyssil, Dr Morris, Messrs John Morgan, W. Ashton, John Jones, G. Meredith, T. George, David Evans, and Dd. Hamer, of Llanidloes, and Daniel Howell of Jjlanbrynmair, with Mr John Jones, hon. seo., and Mr W. Cooke, secretary. Mr John Jones said he had received the following letter from Mr A. C. Humphreys-Owen :—" I can well understand the difficulties, which, in the present state of affairs, attend the selection of a number of representatives by each borough, and I therefore fally sympathise with the wish that the resolution lor the appointment of the proposed body should be rescinded. We may hope that after the autumn ses- sion both general and local politics will be in a posi- tion whicl* will render united action easier than at present. The proposal for a separate organization for the boroughs, a-emj to me, one for the boroughs alone to decide. The Association oannot, even if it would, and would not if it could, in any way fjree Any person, or body of persons, to continue to belong to that body. The first condition of suooess in poli- tic1-1 o>nteats il that every person in every seotion of the party should feel himself unooerced and un. fettered. If therefo.-e, the opinions of the boroughs is in favour of a separate organization, I think that the Central Association should frankly assist in the nece*s»ry arr ingem 11 s." Mr Richard Lloyd said he was snre they all re- gretted the absence of Mr Humphreys-Owen, because of his very great experience, which would have helped them to oOlLe to a concusion on the matter. In his absence he had great pleasure in proposing that Mr John Jones take the chair. Mr E. R. James seconded, and the motion was carried. The Secretary (Mr W. Cooke) then read the notice convening the meeting, and which stated that the business of the meeting was to rescind a resolution parsed on July 14th, appointing six representatives from each borough to select a candidate to represent the boroughs at the next election; and to reconsider tie question of having a separate organisation for the boroughs. The Chairman suggested that the meeting should consider the second question first, and then consider the question of rescinding the resolution afterwards. Mr Woosnam: May I ask before the business is commenced whether the Executive has called this jneeting or who has called it? The Chairman: This meeting has been called bv •the authority of the President under rule 9, which provides that he has power to do so on receipt of a requisition signed by twenty members of the associa- tion. A requisition was signed by twenty members jfl the association residing at Newtown, Llanidloes, and Welshpool, though I am not sure as to the latter place. I hold that he had a perfect right to do no, fffA that the meeting is regular to-day. Mr .Woosnam: The only thing is whether the re- quisition handed to the President was actually signed by 20 members, because if 20 members did not do so, I apprehend the meeting is informal. The Rev D. B. Edmunds asked if all the members had had notice of the meeting. He had not received one, and he only heard by accident that one was to be bold. Mr Cooke: Your notice was posted by myself. The Rev D. B, Edmunds It was lose in the post. office then. The Chairman The notice was signed by 20 mem- bers—Liberals—members of the party in the boroughs referred to, and I think we had better proceed at once to thrash the matter out, in the hope that we may get rid of one of our difficulties. Mr Woosnam I do not want to say anything abont it, but from information which has reached me the 20 members who have signed the requisition are not members of the association. They may be mem- bers of the party, but they are not members of the Association however, you get over the difficulty, if it is a fact, of course the meeting will be informal. The Chairman The rulea say that the Association shall consist of all Liberals—Liberals first, who sig- nify their adherence to the objects and principles of the Association. I think we are here, if possible, to clear UD the difficulty, and if Mr WooBnam will waive his objection, it will be better. It is a volun- tary Association, and members have come from dif- ferent parts of the county to talk over the question at iRstLo. I Mr E. R. James also made an objection to the I meeting, but the Chairman declared it regularly con. stituted. Mr Lloyd thought it would be better to proceed with the agenda, and deal with the questions in the order in which they appeared on it. Possibly, if the motion to rescind the resolution were carried, the other resolution as it was put down would not be carried. It would be remembered by all who were present at the last meeting of the Association that a resolution was then passed, asking each of the boroughs to nominate six persons to be a committee for the seleotion of names of gentlemen to contest this seat at the next election. In accordance with that resolution it became his duty as president of the Newtown Liberal Association to summon the Liberals together in public meeting, which was done with sufficient notice, in order to lay the resolution before them. There was a large meeting, and they dis- agreed with it entirely and declined to take part or paroel in the matter at all in any way. They ulti- mately arrived at the resolution, of which notice had been sent in, and a copy handed to the Chairman (Mr John Jones) as hoa sec. He would not take up their time by going into the matter any further. After thev had heard the expression of opinion from the President, who had thought the matter out, it was clear that they were of opinion beyond doubt, that the resolution should be rescinded. To do so would be to clear the way, so that they would be able to work hand-in-hand as a united party, as they had done in the past (applause.) There was no difficulty in their securing the two seats to the Liberal party, for both the county and boroughs were Liberal. There had been differences of opinion as to procedure in the past, but he did not intend to go into them. He had had his say, but he would not touch upon them any further. He would leave them as tney were, so far as he was concerned, and he hoped they would bring themselves together as one strong, united party-(applause)-to secure the return of a Liberal candidate for these boroughs at the next election. He might say, if they would allow him. that that had been his great desire in the past, throughout the whole course. It was a great mistake that the present man was in Parliament, misrepre- senting the constituency. Of course they would have to be on their watchtower to fight the battle again, and if they kept on the lookout when the next election came to see what took place, and saw that things which occurred in the past did not happen again, be had not the slightest doubt that the Liberal party would be successful by a large majority. He moved that the minute be rescinded. Mr J. Morgan As one who signed the requsition, I have much pleasure in seconding the motion. The Chairman said Mr Thomas Watkin had written excusing his non-attendance. He said that he thought members should have something better to d(. than to meet and pass resolutions, and then to meet again in exactly the same circumstances to rescind They might hope that the time would soon arrive when the questions which now troubled and divided chem would be finally settled. Mr E. R. James thought it better to say what he thought. He was sorry to differ from Mr Lloyd in the motion for rescinding the resolution which be nad moved. In the first place it was passed at a full meeting of the Association when delegates were pre- sent from all parts of the county, by a majority of six. Now, because it did not meet the views of the rriends of Newtown and Llanidloeb, they had given notice to call another meeting to rescind it. They knew that there were many members of the Council .ho were tired of the business of first moving and than rescinding, and they had not taken tne trouble bo attend. He thought before his resolution was re- scinded that the Council should wait until the annual meeting, wheo there would be a larger number ot delegates present, and eich borough fairly repre- sented. At the meeting that day he saw no one pre- sent from Machynlleth or Welshpool, and only one from Llanfyllin. He asked the delegates from New- town and Llanidloes whether they should be c-illed upon to rescind the resolution without letting it stand for twelve months to see how it would work, and if it were found it was not a good plan let them rescind it at the annual meeting. If it were rescinded at the present meeting it would only cause dissatis- faction. At a catch meeting of this sort it was hardly the thing to do. The Chairman Do you move an amendment? Mr James: No. It is a direct negative. Mr T. Parry Jones said he waa very sorry some of the boroughs were either unrepresented or only par- tially represented. He maintained that the meeting was a constitutionally called meeting, and that the one when the resolution was passed was thoroughly unconstitutional in spirit. If they looked at it caimly they would see that they were taking a course alto- gether at variance with the constitution of this Asso- ciation. Instead of going in for proportional re- presentation, which had always been a plank in the Liberal platform, they harked back to an old Tory idea, and said they wanted little and big boroughs to have just the same representation, which en the face of it seemed an utterly unfair arrangement and quite at variance with Liberal practice and principles. He was nob at all surprised that the Liberals of Newtown should have kicked against such a resolution. There was another course which they might have adopted, and refused to send any delegates to attend, and then where would they have been? They might have virtually decided not to sanction such an arrange- ment. The smaller boroughs liked this arrangement because it gave them more power and more say, and when they met in committee probably Newtown and Llanidloes would be unrepresented. What chance was there of a partial committee of that kind select- ing a candidate who would be acceptable to the whole constituency ? He thought that Newtown and Llan- idloes had only taken a fair and reasonable course in endeavouring to get the Association to rescind the resolution. They could not sanction the resolution, and they had taken the constitutional course of call- ing another meeting to rescind the resolution, and whatever they did that day they must all come tJ the conclusion that the resolution was so utterly unfair that it must be rescinded. Personally, he did not care whether they had a separate organisation for the boroughs, or whether the boroughs settled the whole thing for themselves and not interfere with the present constitution of the Association, simply allow. ing borough representatives who were elected on a proportional principle to form a sort of executive for special borough business. Such a committee, if it wanted a small committee of selection, might elect them from among themselves. If that plan were adopted he would prefer that the proposition should be carried, if only it would work, that the estimated number of Liberals in each of the boroughs be taken as a standard, and that they should elect a committee of selection on proportional principles. He did not care which was adopted, but surely there could be no objection to go back to where they were before (hear, hear.) He heartily supported the rescinding of the resolution passed at the meeting held on the 14:h July. Mr T. Jones, of Llanfyllin, said he had great plea- sure in opposing the resolution. The representatives of Llanfyllin were rather far away to come down to Newtown to play (hear, hear.) They came to the last meeting when the subject was thoroughly thrashed out, and be did not agree with it being re- scinded again so soon. It was an expensive matter to visit Newtown, and some of the delegates could not afford it. He thought the general assembly was stronger to deal with the question than at a special meeting when all the delegates could not attend. Mr David Hamer: I should like to have your rul- ing upon one point with regard to the resolution passed at the last meeting. I cannot say that I have very much sympathy with the proposal to rescind the motion. It seemi to me to be childish work. I think the resolution does not do all we intended it to do, or rather it is not as easy to carry out as we thought it would be. The resolution gives the power to each borough to appoint six representatives, making thirty-six in all. I should very much like to know what are the functions of that body? I am not sure that that was clearly defined. Some said they were merely to act as a Selection Committee, others that they had all to do with the boroughs. Which of these is correct I am not sure. If it is to be a selection committee then I think 36 is too large a number. Another question was to whom are this t committee to report when they have made their selec. tion ? Is it to the Central Association, or are they to make the fi >1 al decision themselves ? I think these points should be cleared up. If that is so I think the resolution would be unworkable, and in that respect I am in favour of rescinding the resolmtion with a., view of having a future amendment, which will be 1 more workable. I have no sympathey with all the cry and noise made in Newtown. Tne idea of re- scinding the resolution is like a big man wanting more representation than a little man. It is a pieci- of self importance which has brought this about, and if you are disposed to work in the true spirit of Liberalism, we can very well get on with equal repre- sentation from each borough. The Chairman: To select a candidate or candi- dates, that is the wording of the resolution. Mr James: I think more than that. The Chairman: I think it is conclusive on the point. Mr Hamer: Who are they to report to ? The Chairman: To the body from which it ema- nated. Mr Parry Jones said a good many understood different to the Chairman's ruling. Mr John Humphreya said he had great pleasure in supporting Mr Lloyd'8 amendment. When he came to the meeting he heard some people say that the Liberals were meeting, and there would be a good flare up again, but from the tone of Mr Lloyd's speech he thought they would be likely to be dis- appointed. He was pleased with the conciliatory speech of Mr Lloyd, and he thought Mr Parry Jones had argued out the matter very fairly and equarely, and as reasonable men they would see that the reso- lution was not fair. Mr Hamer had said the resolu- tion was well thrashed out at the last meeting, and yet he came that day and asked the chairman to ex- plain it (laughter). He hoped they would all be able to see eye to eye on the matter. The Liberals in Newtown did not expect anything but was reason- able and fair, and they did not ask for anything else, and he admitted that there was a good deal in what had been said about bringing them from different parts of the county to rescind the resolution, but it was an unfortunate thing that the resolution was passed at the last meeting, for had it not been so they would have no necessity to meet that day. HI-: felt it would be a very disagreeable thing to have to go to Welshpool, simply to please the whims or caprice of some particular persons. But in this in- stance there waa a real grievance, and until it was redressed they would not be able to work amicably together (bear, hear). Mr John Ashton asked the meeting to unite, and make a bold front against the enemy. He thought the resolution should be rescinded on a matter of principle. He did not see much principle in 200 Liberals having the same an 100. Dr Morris quite agreed that the resolution which they were asked to rescind was most unfair. There was certainly no principle attached to it. It was just like Ulster wishing to govern the whole of Ire- land, instead of allowing the majority to dictate what was best for the country. The resolution was iu antagonism to the principles of Liberalism. They professed to be just, and the foundations of their principles were justice, fairplay, and freedom, and if they agreed to such a resolution, it went to the very bottom of their principles. He felt that tho time had come when they ought to amalgamate ano unite together, and should be prepared to make con- cessions (hear, hear). They were at present not only a laughing stock to their enemies, but to the Liberal of other counties. He hoped the various difficulties would be removed, and that the stumbling bleaks would be taken out of the way by making conces- sions (applause). Mr Martin Wooanam said he did not come tc the meeting with any intention of upsetting the har. mony which should exist at all political assemblies (applause). He came with the intention in his mind of adding his mite of influence towards the ameliora- tion of the difficulties which had in the past existed The question they had to decide was whether they should rescind a resolution, which was passed on hit proposition giving equal representation to each o' the six boroughs on the qnestion of selecting a oandi dite to fight the seat in the Liberal interest. Thai, was the point. It might take some of them by sur- prise if he said he agreed with the rescinding of tho resolution (hear, hear and laughter). He agree. that the resolution should be rescinded, and be fe! in with Mr Lloyd's motion (applause); He hope< that that would dispel any idea that he came ther, to upset the meeting. If it were the wish of tht contributory boroughs that there should be i,ropo tional representation to select a candidate, he agrok3, to it. It would be impossible for any contributor3 borough to have the representation based upon tb. number of Liberals which were supposed to be i) each borough-for this reason. How could the) earmark the Liberals which existed in the contri butory boroughs. He defied any living man, be h ever so influential and well acquainted with th. position of the boroughs, to put his hands upon tb< Liberals of Newtown, within a couple of hundred and say These men are Liberals," (hear. hear am laughter). Let Llanidloes take this one note o; warning. Welshpool would have a very mnct greater representation if it were based upon tht number of voters in that borough than Llanidloes would, although the latter town might possess thre, Liberals to every Tory. Of course the question o; the candidate would crop up again. He hoped ano trusted that there would be none of that friction which had no doubt existed in the past in tht selection of a suitable candidate to fight the borough- < (cheers). What they wanted to do was not to have their pet man at all, but they should band themselves together and combine to select the very beet man they could find, one who wouid represent the feelings of the national party in Wales- (applause)-and not a man who would stand aside and say, "I will vote for this or for that" (hear, hear). They did not want a man of that description, and who would back out again, and who would not fight the battle in the boroughs. He hoped there would be no personal feeling arising in their breasts, or that any pet man would be put forward, who did not represent the national aspirations of the Principality in which they were proud to live. He was sorry they should have to rescind one resolution, but it was exceedingly indefinite, and he hoped it would not become a prece- dent (hear, hear). It was a special case, and there- fore the necessity arose. He agreed that it was in ordinary circumstances cbildish to rescind a resolu- ion. Mr David Hamer said since he had spoken he found out that he was speaking to a different subject than that before the meeting, and he agreed with the re-icinding of the resolution, and should support it (laughter and hear. hear). Mr Ffoulkes-Jones said at a meeting held at Machynlleth the previous night they came to the decision that they should like the resolution to stand. In a matter of this sort the principal of proportional representation was hardly the principle upon which they should work. They felt as deep an interest in the question in Machynlleth as they did in Newtown, ind for that reason he thought they should have as great a representation upon the committee. He was at there to press this point against a majority, as it was evident he was ia the minority, but they were anxious to get the matter settled, and were quite willing to fall in with the decision of the meeting (cheers). All that they asked was that a candidate should be selected who had a chance of winning the boroughs (cheers). The Chairman said he should like to see the ques- tion settled. The present state of suspense had a bad effeot upon the Liberals in each of the boroughs, md the sooner they came to a decision the better it vould be for the success of the Liberal party. The motion was then put and carried, with two dissentients. The Chairman: We have taken down, and must now build up. What is to be substituted for this resolution ? Dr Morris proposed that the number of delegates for the selection of a borough candidate be in accord- ance with the approximate number of Liberal elootor6 in each borough. Mr Woosnam asked if Dr Morris was in order in moving a motion which was not on the agenda. Tb It was the very reason why he voted for the motion to rescind. The Chairman: I think we can discuss the ques- tion. We are here as the representatives of the party, and if it is right to destroy one resolution, it ia quite competent for us to pass another (applause) Mr Thomas George seconded the resolution. Mr Woosnam: I certainly do not agree with it. The Chairman: I have ruled it iu order. Surely we are not to have another meeting to pass it. Mr Woosnam It is not our fault. I should like to point out that the resolution is entirely out oi order. The resolution to rescind which Mr Lloyd gave notice of was a specific one, and if it had been intended to move a further resolution in lieu thereof. it should have been so stated on the agenda. If thera were a larger representation here to-day it would not have mattered so much, but all those who are absent had no idea that Dr Morris's resolution would be proposed. Mr Parry Jones said from a legal point of view that was a splendid idea, but from a business and common sense point it as not. Mr E. R. James asked if what the Selection Com- mittee did would come before the Council. The Chairman said he hoped they were going to form a committee to select a candidate, who must be submitted to the several boroughs, and every borough would express its opinion. There was no difficulty at all about that. 1 Mr Woosnam asked how Dr Morris intended to ear- maik the Liberals in the different boroughs. How would he distinguish a Liberal from a Tory, or both from a doubtful (laughter) ? It appeared to him that it would be very difficult. Of course there uld be no difficulty about Llanidloes—(laughter)— but there would be in the town in which he lived, and i r) Welshpool and also, the other boroughs. The Chairman asked the meeting whether hey wouH agree to leave the matter to the President, whu should hear evidence from representatives of each borough as to the position of the parties, and that after the numbers had been arrived at by the President they should be sent to the secretary, who would communicate them to the secretary of each borough, andthe latter would then elect the names of their candidate^. Dr Morris I should be quite agrpeable. t'he motion was then put and carried, and also one Betting forth that the representation should be in accordance with Rule 3. Xr Woosnam drew attention to the fact that he did not vote 00 Dr Morris's motion, and as there would be som" dispute he thought the names of those members of the Council not voting should be plaoed on the minutes. The Chairman We will take your word for more than that. SEPARATE ORGANIZATIONS. With reference to the question of having separate organizations for the boroughs and county, Mr Parry Jones said it was inexpedient at present to form separate organisations so Jong as they adopted the Spirit of Mr James's resolution, and that wa& that the representatives who were to the Council from the boroughs should form a committee to deal with and settle separate borough business themselves. Mr Lloyd said that was the intention all through that was meant to be adopted, if the resolution to re- scind were passed. They did not want to press the question of separating the Council, The Association had worked harmoniously in the past, and it would be a great mistake to divide the association in any way in the world. He had as great an interest in the county as in the boroughs, and all he wanted to see was the success of the party in both constitu- enoies (hear, hear, and applause). Mr John Humphreys said he thought Mr Lloyd had expressed the feelings of the Radicals of Newtown, that they had no wish to separate from the Central Association; and be was very pleased that they had not been compelled to resort to extreme measures Mr Woosnam: It is an agreeable surprise to find our friends at Newtown have really come to their senses (laughter). It would be a sorry day to divide the boroughs and the county. We are able to assist the county in the boroughs, and the county is able to assist the boroughs, and it would be a pity to divide, not only financially, but in other ways (hear, hear). The Chairman: I am glad to see some light in the immediate future, and that we shall be one united party, who will not rest until we secure the double representation of the boroughs as well as the county (applause). Mr Lloyd I should like to correct Mr Woosnam. I am very glad to see that the minority have at least come to the senses (loud laughter). Mr Woosnam: I protest against that. The Chairman: I think our friend protests too much, gentlemen (renewed laughter). The meeting then broke up, a hearty vote of thanks being accorded Mr John Jones for acting so effi. ciently aa chairman.

THE CONFERENCE. The first sitting of the Conference was held in the Public Rooms at 2-30. The Bishop took the chair, supported by the Ven. Archdeacon Thomas and Mr W. Trevor Parkins, hon. sees., the Earl of Powis, the Dean of St. Asaph, Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, Bart., Sir Robert A. Cunliffe, Bart., Sir Pryoe Pryce-Jones, M.P., Principal Gent, Mr P. P. Pennant, the Rev Principal Owen of Lampeter, the Rev Chancellor Richardson, Corwen, Rev R. Evan-Jones, Llan- llwchaiarn, Rev David Williams, Llandyrnog, and Mr W. Forrester Addie. The lay and clerici.1 delegates present included :— Aberhafesp, the Rev James Dixon, Rev E. T. M. Evans, and Mr E. B. Proctor; Berriew, the Rev J. Baines Bettws, the Rev T. Hughes Davies and Mr Joan Pryce; Bettisfitld, the Rev W. L. Martin; Bryneglwys, Mr John Davies Buttington, the Rev T. Hughes; Dolfor, Mr W. Brown; Guilafield, the Rev J. S. Lewis and Capt. D. H. Myttoc Gresford, the Rev L. Wickham, Mr W. J. Sisson, Mr T. Reginald James; Kerry, the Rev A. O. Nares and Mr James Martin Llandysilio, Mr T. Pryce; Llan. dyeail, the Rev J. Parry Morgan and Mr R. E. Jones Lianddoget, Mr J. P. Evans; Llansilin, the Rev D. Davies; Llanfair Caereinion, the Rov T. Jeffrey Jones and Rev T. D. James; Llanllwchaiarn, the Rev R. Evan Jones and Mr E. Powell; Llanllugan, tn., Rev C. Williams; Llanwyddelan, Mr James Thomas; Llantysiiio, the Rev J. S. Jones; Llan- fyllin, the Rev T. Jones, the Rev C. F. Roberts and Mr J. Marshall Dugdale; Llanrhos, Mr W. Drake Blew; Llansantffraid, Mr Elijah Pryoe and Mr G. Kempster; Llanwyddyn, the Rev John Williama, Mr T. Davies and MrW. Owen Llanrhaiadr, the Rev D. Jodes; Llaarwst, Rev E. B. Hugh Jones; tfanafon, the Rev T. Rarries, Mr T. J. Hounsfield and Mr J. E. Thomas: Meifod, the Rev J. Wilym Jones; Newtown, the Rev E. A. Fishbourne, the Rev F. M. Hamilton and Mr C. W. Norton; Pennant, the Rev D. James; Prestatyn, the Rev G. Prion Pool Quay, the Rev R. J. Roberts; Tregynon, the Rev D. Grimaldi Davis and Mr John Thomas. ELECTION OF OFFICERS. Mr P. P. PENNANT proposed that Mr Trevor Parkins and Archdeacon Thomas be requested to act as hon. secretaries for the ensuing year, and that Mr Trevor Parkins be also asked to act as treasurer (oheara). Mr EDMUND PÉEL, of Brynypys, said the honour had been done him of asking him to second the mo- tion. The laity had as much confidence in the secretaryship of Mr Trevor Parkins as the clergy hae in that of Archdeacon Thomas (cheers). The motion was put and carried unanimously. THANKS. Sir P. PRTOE-JONES, M.P., said it was with infinite pletsure he proposed the resolution which had been placed in his hands, a resolution which he was sure would be received with aoclamatiou it was no oth-r than thanks to the excellent Principal who preached that admirable sermon to them that morning. Principal Gent not only,gave them a theological sermon, but carried their minds to things tiat n^ight possibly take place in the future, and he hoped and true ed that those who heard him would aot worthy of 'he occasion should it arise (cheers). His motion w s that the beet thanks of the Con. fef. nee be g ven to Principal Gent for the excellent mon he p eoobod to them that morning (cheers). Col. DAVIKS-COOKE, in seconding the motion, said he fully agreed with Principal Gent that it was mot I advisable r,hat tho-e Conferences should be held. The interchange of uleas between the ciergy and the laity was of the greatest use to the Church. They had most fortunately an excellent Bishop for the,e troublous times--(cheors)-aiid to them, whether lai'y or clergy, it was a pleasure to try and support him in every way they could. Th* motion was put and carried unanimously, and Principal GENT briefly thanked the meeting. DELEGATES. Mr E. O. V. LLOYD, of Berth, proposed that the Dean of St. Asaph, the Rev David ill vans, the Rev Principal Owea, Lord Harlech, ?!h P. P. Pennant, and Chincelior Trevor Parkins be elected delegates to tho Ceutral Council of Diocesan Conferences. The Rev Chanceilor RICHARDSON seconded the motiou, which was carried unanimously. Tne BISHOP OF ST. ASA.PH said For the first time in the history of our Diocesan Conference it meets at this important centre, which industrial enterpri e has made a familiar name all over the world. I am also reminded that counting the Church Congresses tbis is the fifth conference over which I have had the honour to preside, and we may well look back and pan6e over this fruitful and striving retrospect. In my first address to you at Rhyl, one of the first subjects, calling for attention, was that of the maintenance of our elementary schools. The atten- dance in the voluntary schools of this diocese is double that in the Board schools, and in the face uf great difficulties the average attendance since 1 spokti to you at Rhyl has increased by more than 1,400. This is a rosult which speaks eloquently for the generosity and devotion of clergy and iaity alike, but it encouragement increases so do our difficulties. We are now under powers that know not voluntary schools, or know them only with an unfavouring eye. and one of the most harassing aspects of the situation is this :—Unnecessary requirements, involving a con- siderable outlay of money, are enforced upon many 01 our schools, notably upon those that seem least able to bear the additional strain, and when we resist these requirements we are cleverly exposed to the accusation of wishing to maintain voluntary schools at the expense of efficiency. The accusation is un true (applause). We must make it impossible (hear, hear), in Wales during this century the clergy have been the most generous and devoted friends oi elementary education, and their interest in educating the children of the labourers and the artisan long predate the time when the enfranchisement of those classes attraoted political interest. Until tht labourer had a vote who but the Church cared about the euuoation of the children (applause) ? But be- cause new forces have come into the field we will not slacken our zeal for education (applause). How could we, while religious education in Wales finds in the Cuuich its only friends and protection? According to the Blue Book of 388, 290 out of the 300 Board schools in Wales have no examination in religious kn Jwledge. In 242 the Bible is not lead at all, 01 laad without comment. We are still, therefore, at Churchmen, the sole upholders of the most essential part of education. The defence of religious education 14 a noble cause, and while I invite every Churchmai in the diocese to go and to labour in this cause, let me warn myself and you that nothing could imperii that cause more than the slightest ground for sus- picion that we were maintaining religious education at the cost of a less efficient secular education in oui elementary schools. For this reason we, in tiiit- diocese, must spare, and I know will spare DO effort to maintain our national schools as well equipped ii ever.v detail of educational appliance, apparatus au, provision as are the Board schools, and when require ments wn.ch seem to promote this end are pressed upon us we must endeavour to meet them in a willing and generous spirit. We, as Churchmen, are the only upholders of religious education in Wales, anc we will not allow those whose educational efforts arc rate-aided to pose as the best friends of secular edu cation. In September, 1839, the Welsh Intermedial. Education Act had just been passed by the lati Government. I ventured then to hope that the exclu sioa of definite religious instruction, already auiented iu the day schools, and condemned by letd ing Nonconformists, would not be repeated in tht case of the new intermediate schools. That hop has not been fulfilled. Tue schemes drafted by the county committees propose, in direot violation of th Endowed Schools Act. that no distinctive religiou. teaching be given by the head of a boarding hODS. to his boarders, and that the formularies of an) particular denomination are not to be used in tht famdv worship. The mere settlement of such a pr. posal is its own condemnation, and it is a matter- foi satisfaction that two of these èchemes have been sen bick for amendment by the House of Lord., The regret remains that there should be anyone in Wales so narrow and so int jlerant as ever to bav. drafted such proposals. When we met at Rhy I had to call your attention to special difficulties nd trials which then beset the clergy. h ,this diocese those difficulties and trials have ab solutely disappeared, and while they are, all con nected with them are best forgotten, it is still we; and wise to remember tkat their disappearance W. E due entirely to those who took their st.Lud upon prin- ciple, and absolutely refuseJ to conciliate or com- promise at the cost of great principles; and the sani, firm grip of principles is still as imperative as it was then. The present Government have brought th( Dia-stablishment and Disendowment of the Church in Wales within the sphere of practical potitics. Tht discussion in the House of Commons on the firs reading of the Suspensory Bill aroused all loyal chu. chinen throughout Englaud and Wales, and the meeting summoned by the Archbishop of Canterbury which was held at the Albert Hall last May, ia a proof, if proof were needed, that the enemies of the Church in Wales must reckon with the whole Churci of England before they can carry out their scheme of spoliation (cheers.) I know I may on your behalf tender our respectful thanks to his grace the Arch. bishop of Canterbury for having put himself at the head of our defendmg forces, and with him let me couple those English Churchmen throughout tht length and breadth of the country, who, when the danger appeared, showed us not only the deeper sympathy, but gavo pledges of a strenuous determi- nation to stand by the Church in Wales to the last. The Suspensory Biil is probably dead, but not the danger. Next session we shall in all probability, have to face a Government measure for the Dises- tablishment and Disendowment of the Church in Wales, and this autumn we may be certain will bt used by our opponents to create if they can an agita- tion against the Church in Wales, and in the creation they will not be, from past experience, too scrupulous in the choice of means, with the use of weapons. May I in this connection commend to the careful perusal of clergy aid laity alike the Bishop of Ox- ford's charge, delivered last year. They will find there amostvaluabe. if brief, summary ofWetah history and Church history in Wales, from one whoe &alizority none can question. It would, indeed, be well if all interested in this subject were to study carefully the words of the Bishop of Oxford. What are we as Churchm ?u in this diocese going to do ? Is this question of Disestablishment of great import- ance or have we allowed our fears to magnify into greatness. a change which need not excite fear or alarm ? We know in outline what Disestablishment and Disendowment mean. Aupiy this knowledge practically. Do you see the way clear to carrying on the work of the Church as it is carried on now in any parish in the diocese under a disendowed Chutch? Stripped of the small endowments you have, could you carry on your National schools, could you maintain a settled ministry in our country parishes, could you maintain the present supply of clergy, and could you secure for them a position of adequate independence and authority? If the answer <0 all the"e is negative, then the greatness of the change proposed cannot be overstated. Again, is not the change equally great in relation to the whole community ? Do we adequately realise the effect which would follow in every parieh upon the disor- ganization and denudation of the Church, not only in the wok of religion, charity, and education, bui ill the drying up of countless, fertilising streams of social influence? Here, again, the answer oonfirma the greatness of the issue at stake. But grant that Disestablishment r-ud Disendowment would be a arreat change. is it after all a matter of principle or of mere ecclesiastical and civil arrangement? Is there a gioat principle involved in the recognition of religion by the State? Are the first principles of honesty and justice not involved in disendowment, or the taking away of property given for a specific pur- pose? Surely, first principles of the highest import- ance are involved in the proposals of Disestablish- ment and Disendowment? If then, this be a qaes. tion of such magnitude, and involving such arche- typal principles, Disestablishment and Disendow- ment is not a matter upon which an honest man can play the opportunist. Consider, too, the question of itq o;r»oi>il relation to the Church in Wales? Would it be well to have a Church in Wales distinct Mad separate from the Church in England, or so loosely federated as to be eutiraly under Its own rule ? A'i illustration from the civil side will be helpful At present the Parliamentary representatives of Wales ait in the Imperial Parliament at Westminster. Their proposals are now brought into the broad and open field of English public life, with its fresh and full currents of wider thoughts and independent •ritioism. Our young leaders, under much bracing conditions, will thrivd better and serve their own country better than if they were condemned to mature their ideas in iitifling- atmosphere of a small local assembly. What is so obviously true of our civil polity is eqally true of our ecclesiastical, and the analogy I have indicated will bear elaboration. We are told that disestablishment and disendowment would end the strife and dissension in Wales, and that at present evertbing resolves itself into a ques- tion of Church and chapel—a dividing and initiating line whioh the proposed change would, we are told, tío':4.. obliterate. But Wales has a history, and tbzosgfr out that history those divisions and dissensions ba"- existed. They are the natural characteristics of »• highly sensitive and sympathetic people, and at pM- sent these charaoteristics find a fusion in prtiiacdl^ and religious differences, and it is a serious blender to mistake the form of the difference for its eaUN". Disestablish and disendow the Church to-morrow,- and you will still have the differences still remammg,. only with a sharper edge, and in a more aggravated, if d fferent, form. Theee characteristics or defeew, of our people exist with very solid compeiittfuiog qualities. If we would mitigate these local and racial defects it will be by widening the area of iu- terest and contention, by giving the popular energies a share and responsibilities in uims, and interesá. and purposes of a broad and national character, wherein the petty strifes of local quarrels and zmtjpo-- thies will be forgotten in the promotion of larger hopes and more ennobling aims. These thought* indi- cate the direction in which our duty lies with rogaxd to disestablishment. It is a great question. It is a question of first principles. Where principles stake we do not ask for quarter. We are now bciofr told that if you come to ternn at once, these ifsrniM shall be easy. It is early to offer terms. Why i the offer made ? It is out of pity for our weakner)", from the sudden discovery of our strength. What- ever the answer may be, we won't parley about tenDll" we mean to win victory for the cause of religion and justice, and if Churchmen are loyal and united that victory is assured (cheers). THE SETTLED PASTORATE. Mr P. P. PENNANT read a paper on the Setttei Pastorate: Its Advantages and Responsibilities." He said the present parochial organisation was the best example he knew of a settled pastorate. It bad stood th-3 test of 1,000 years, and was being copied- in our numerous colonies, and they might coufidenfcjy claim that great advantages belonged to the system. Other bodies could not fill the place of the Church, for they failed in what was the essence of the parochial system; that it covered the whole of th*' land so that every place was included in scnoff parish, and so that every soul was in the care of tome appointed pastor. Occasionally, in the life of a nation, a body of preaching friars, or the eloqncneo of a Wesley or a Whitfield, might temporarily gal- vanise into religious fervour both town and country alike; but during the much longer periods of ealtOp- when religious excitemtnt was non-existent, wim, would then be found, if the settled pastorate wall gone, to carry out the Master's order, Feed my sheep." The voluntary religious bodies could not do, it. It was stated on good authority that there was no resident minister of religion other than the pastosr of the Es ablished Church in more than half the parishes of the diocese. Carry out the principle of disestablishment and disendowment, and it would cripple the old parish organisation that had esisted for 1000 years, and what pastoral provision woakl remain in many a rural parish P He would remind them there was a strong body, partly religious, portly political, who whatever their protestation as to- motive might be, did threaten action against the Church, which they firmly believed would do deadly injury to har and Christianity, and, further, that to leave alone any weakness which could be removt4 was to give the most efficacious aid to strengthen the attack. When a clergyman was appointed to Ow cure of souls he must remember he was an ambassador of Christ, not merely for those who went to Clburcbv nor to those who happened to live near the parsonage, but to every individual in the whole parish; to toodv. to teaoh and to adviee in all matters spiritual,astber might find opportunity. Ho must become con £ >- dential family lawyer and chief adviser, as well aB spiritual pastor. To gain that position, visniiny, regular and systematic, must be done. They nmet try to make a friend of everybody. To live amosfit none but friends had its reward. Let them kle.are of this, that those who saw them oftenest in their houses, they would see most often at the services ia the house of God. The day school, the clothing club, the penny bank, the care of the sick, the eot lecture, and other parochial ministrations, were all important in themseves, but mo-t important wbou w exercised as ta lead to and uphold the public serrioep of the Church. In conclusion, he reminded ill". of the schemes promulgated for disestablishment and, disendowment; of the Church, which would abolish the settled pastorate and cripple and disable the system most severely. He asked clergy and laity alike to value the loss, and be careful and preserve*, and hand down to their children uninjured, this holy and blessed heritage, which they, under Providence,, through so mmy gdnerations, had received from tkw eariy days ot Christianity. Canon FLETCHEB (Wrexham) having spoken, The Rev GRIMALDI DAVIS said he had heard WiW, great pleasure and profit the recital of the serviow, rendered by the Church to the Welsh people tnrongh settled pastorates, one way or another. He felt there was no need to lay stress upon one important fact, that there was great necessity to impress upon thf many inside the Church, and upon a much larger number who were without the pale of the Churub, t- value of settled pastorates. A great deal was heard nowadays about the good work done by the Noncon- formists of Wales, and whilst not desiring to minimi.. the good work done by them he thought the Cbnrch could justly claim a considerable portion cf creditfor the good that had accrued. If they took the mosfc favourable view of the work done by Nonconfornsisto it only went back 150 years, but the work of thf Church went back for 1800 years, and was character* ised by much trial and tribulution (hear, hear), rh. Church was the first to prdach the great truths of' Christianity to their forefathers and she tot-k prominent part in laying the foundation of the liber- ties of the people, religious, social, and educational, and she had maintained and defended those liberties- over and over again (applause). The Church in Wales had also done a grand work in the field of sacred literature, and had given to the Welsh people- the best treasure they ever had, the word of God in their own tongue (applause). If they compared the Welsh version and the revised edition of the Blbl. they would find that nearly every word was the Bamw as in the original, and this, he thought, spoke volumes- for the learning of Bishop Morgan and his colitaguee.. In the matter of education the Church had done meet- important work. Before 1870 the Church was practi-" cally the only educationist in the country, and Mr Mundella had said the best friends of education were the clergymen of the Church of England (bear, bear). Much of this had been carried out by means of their settled pastorate system. The clergyman's duty might, he thought, be divided into three, viz., the preacher, the pastor, and the priest. But preaching after all was not the be-all and end-all of a clergy man't' life. Every clergyman should have a personal know- ledge of the difficulties and trials of the people- to whom he ministered, and he ought to take, an active interest in their temporal welfare. He had to christen the children, to prepare the young for confirmation, to marry people when they came of age, to visit the sick, the poor. and the- dying, and he had a great deal to do, and how oould. he do it all unless he was a resident amongst the people to whom he was expected to minister (ap- plause.) Without endowments it would be impos- sible for the Church to have resident ministers in the. various parishes, and the value of the endowments lay in the great mission which they enibled ther clergy to carry out. There were people to day who strove their very best to take these gifts away from the Church, and he had not se.'n a single one of them- refused even the smallest endowment when it had been offered (laughter.) The clergyman of a parish in order to do his work well ought to be above the' constant worry of trying to make both ends meet- (tpplause.) This might be supposed by many to be tt very low ground upon which to argue, but the Master himself had told them The labourer is worthy of hi.. hire (hear, hear.) He thought no man ought to be given full charge of a parish until at least he had been at least fivfJ years in orders, and until he had had some. practical experience of parochial life, and on the otuer hand when clergymen bad arrived at a period when they were past work they should have a proper and sufficient competence to enabl. them to end their days in comfort and peace (bear, hear.) There had been many improvements of late. yeara. Thsy found their friends the ladies coming' forward in greater and increasing numbers, and tak- ing an active part in the<Jhurch's life. The clergy were most grateful to them for the help they gave, as it cheered them in work which was not only diffi- cult and responsible at most times, but very difroult, and very responsible in times like the present. Al- though the clergy admitted this, there was still room for greater improvement. The principle of personal, service in the Master's cause was not reoognisa, amongst Church people as it ought to be. They had great arreari to make up, there were new problem. constantly pressing on the Church, they had to oopo with the temptations to the rising generation. The day of democracy had dawned, and they must do all they could on behalf of the religion they professed,, and he hoped they would be able to induce their lay brethren and sisters to come forward more nobly an more energetically to help them, so that whatever changes might be in store for the Church in future, and in spite of the difficulties which surrounded her, she might become what she once was, the universal and the only one Church of the land (loud applause.) Captain MYTTON said he did not stand on the plat- form except in favour of the advantages to be deri ved.1 from the settled pastorate. He thought it behoved laymen to respond to the call of the previous speaker, and shew that they were interested in having a setw tied pastorate amongst them. The only argument ta be advanced against the settled pastorate was thafc amongst the clergy there were some who had failed in their work in different parishes, but whilst point- ing this out the laity were only too conscious of their" own failings and fallings from duty (applause.) Mr J. MARSHALL DUGDALE, referring to the re* marks which had been made with regard to the necessity that the clergy with scant iaoonas has* :¡;a