The Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Times

IOTTHFSIASTIC TORY MEETING AT WELSHPOOL. PRESENTATION TO SIR PRYCE PRYCE-JONES- THE BOROUGH ELECTION PETITION. LET PER FROM LORD SALISBURY. On Thursday evening a large and influential gathering of Conservatives from all the boroughs took place at the Town Hall, Welabpool. The occasion was made particularly attractive by the presenta- tion of three handsome solid silver cups to Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones, M.P., in recognition of his services to the Unionist cause. The oups were supplied by Mi Herbert Jones, of Newtown. The largest is capable of holding four gallons, while the others will contain two gallons each. They are mounted on ebony stands and all are beautifully engraved and richly chased, forming a magnificent gift. The large cup is in- scribed as follows Presented to Sir Pryce Pryce. Jones, Member of Parliament, for Montgomery Boroughs, by his constituents and friends in recog- nition of his services to the Unionist cause, 12tb, October, 1893." On the opposite side to the inscrip. tion was Sir Pryce's monogram and crest, and these were also to be seen on both other cups. The latter were designed by the London Goldsmiths Company, The spacious hall was densely packed long before the proceedings commenced, and for some time Mi Baines, the well-known comic, and Mr W. Nuttall at the piano, amused the audience. The room was decorated with flags and mottoes, while prominently displayed was a photograph of Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones, Lord Beaconefield, Lord Salisbury, and other promi- nent m m of the party. Among tha mottoes were these; A Hearty Greating to our Visitors," Goi bless oar Queen and Country," Peace and Pros- perity to all," United we stand, divided we fall," and Cymru am Byth." On Lord Powis, Lord Londoaderry, and Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones, making their appearance on the platform they were greeted with a tremendous ovation, which lasted for Borne time. The Earl cf Powis occupied the chair, and on the platform there were also present the Countess Cif < Powis, the Marquis of Londonderry, KG., Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones, M.P Lady Pryce-Jones, the Duke and Duchess of Leeds, Lord and Lady Herries, Lady Margaret Herbert, the Hon. G. Hamilton Russell, Colonel Montgomery, Mrs Montgomery, Major Herbert, Mra Herbert, Sir Henry Edwards, the lion Geo. Kenyon, M P., Mr Stanley Leighton, M.P., Mr R. G. Webster, M.P., Col. and Mrs Harrison, Miss Harrisou, Capt. D. H. and Mrs Mytton, Mr J. Marshall Dugdale, Mr and Mrs W. F. Addie, Mr Joseph Evans, Mr Robert W. W. Wynne, Captain and Mrs Edward Pryce-Jones, Mr W. E. Pryce- Jones, Mr A. W. Pryce-Jones, Mr Harry Pryce- Jones, Miss Pryce-Jones, Miss Rosa Pryce-Jones, Mr and Mrs W. F. Thomas, Mr W. A. Rogers, Mr Barker Halliwell, Mr R. Gillart, Captain Paull, Mr* I Un.1. 1i'i!:toY'l.o 1\,f- TUM.. t»UU 1U19Q X(«U11| iUl riauuio JM X ■ UVUJMO Williams, Rev and Mrs Grimaldi Davies, Mr and Mrs Kitto, Mr D. Gillart, Mr and Mrs Joseph Evans, Mr and Mrs Sackville Phelps, MrC. Shuker, Mr and Mrs Poaudiey, Mr and Mrs Evan Humphreys, Mr N. Lloyd-Jones, Mr E. Gillart, Miss Bryan, Mrs Welch, Mr and Mrs E. B. Proctor, the Misses Jones (Bank), Mr and Mra Beck, Mr Geo. Pryce, Mr It. O. Perrott, Mr J. R. Pryse, and many others. The noble CHAIRMAN, on rising, was loudly cheered. He aaid he would read to them one or two names of gentlemen who had been unable to attend that night. There were Mr Hammond, the popular candidate, who beat Mr John Morley at Newcastle, Mr T. W. Maolure, M.P., Mr Macdonna, M.P., Mr Jelf, Q.C., and Mr Abraham Howell. Sir Pryce Jones had re- ceived a letter from the Marquis of Salisbury, K.Q. (loud cheers). He would read it them. The letter ran as follows:- Hatfield House, 11th October, 1893. Dear Sir Pryoe,-I am much obliged to you for your letter, and congratulate you moat heartily upon the demonstration which is about to take place at Welshpool. Lord Powis, Lord Londonderry, and some other Conservative friends could not have selected a more fitting occasion for testifying their gratitude aud admiration foi activity in the Conser- vative cause, or a more admirable example of that quality. I hope we may gain more friends gradually in that part of the country. I sympathise with you deeply on the the measure which the English law metes out to innocent men. I Buffered somewhat in +:0. aama it. Q tf '1Ihnnoh VarrllAt: (LnH K h WU'WII ICI;8LL1o' "J- J--fít.V -v every stage of the action of Mr O'Brien against me were on my side, and though my opponent was made to pay coqts, yet my innocence cost me £ 5,000.—Ever yours truly, SALISBURY. tie hid tu,t night two very pleasant tasks to perfotm. Tney had deputed him to make the presentation to Sir Pryce Jones—(cheers)—as a mark of the appreciation which they had of hia gallant conduct in fightitg the battle of the Conservative! cause in these parts (applause). He had, moreover, to introduce to the meeting one with whom many of them were personally acquainted, and at least, with his political career, all were familiar—he meant Lord Londonderry (loud cheers). He would remind them that Lord Londonderry had a large -quantity of Welsh blood in his veins, his mother was the bearer of a Welsh name, and Jived for many years in close proximity to this town- (cheers)—and even now she dwelt within the confines of the county, aLd had made herself popu'ar throughout the length and breadth of Montgomery- shire (renewed cheering). They were most fortunate in having the assistance of Lord Londonderry that night, when they considered how deeply he was engaged in FIGHTING THE BATTLE OF THE UNIONIST CAUSE in all parts (f the British IslE s. When he told them that he expressed great pleasure at receiving an invitation to address them and renew the friendships formed in former days in the boroughs, and that be had travelled frem the North of England, having ad-iressed a meeting there on the previous night, he was sure they would give him a welcome worthy of the occasion, and that they would not only mark their appreciation of the friendly feelings which he had for them, but that they would also mark the a ppreciation they had for the manner in which his LGrdship had distinguished himself in the present crisis—in endeavouring to save Ireland from ruin, and to maintain the integrity of the British Empire (loud cheers). And now he had to assure Sir Pryce- Jones how fully they were aware of the great battle he had gained in these boroughs—(much cheering, and 0 lies of "Pryce-Jones for ever ")-and to the hard work which he had done, and hard knocks which he had received (laughter). It was by Sir Pryce-Jones's untiring energy and indomitable pluck that he bad wrested the seat from the Separatist party, and they ware there now to celebrate his success in the boroughs (cheers). They were there that night to give honour where honour was due (renewed cheers). hi J would not have them forget Lady Pryce.Jone- (i ud cheers)—who had so largely contributed to his i I iccezis- (hear, hear)—by her energy and by ber persenal popularity. Ladies had at all times taken A prominent part in politics in this country, and in e present crisis there was a duty devolving upon em which he knew they would not Bhnnk from (h^ar. hear). In Pickwick they read of a candidate who had to kiss every baby in the constituency for Eear of offending the darling's mothers, the mothers ') the future voters, and even if Sir Pryce-Jones were nltled upon to do that, he thought he would. bè 1 ute egual to the occasion (laughter and cheers). fhsy ali knew how hard Sir Pryce had worked in the ).)rl,uglia, and whilst congratulating him on his ^uueesa, he would not have them forget that the aattle was not over (hear, hear). They must stand by their guns in order to maintain the advantages they had gained and, indeed, they hoped to add to taose advantages, not only in the boroughs but also in the county (ehears). He told them that the only way they could do that was by constant exertion, and if they meant business, he would .PROMISE THEM VICTORY (loud cheers). Such a large and influential assem. oiige as he saw before him afforded convincing proof ■ hit the Unionist and Conservative party was not only alive in the Montgomery boroughs, but in a most thriving condition (applause). In offering to Sir Pryoo-Jones their thanks, they asked his acceptance of the caps as a small tribute of their ".w.itude. In congrawlating billl upon his success iu the past, they pledged themselves to assist him i. the futare--(applause) -and when Parliament dissolved to return him to the same place where he a vv eat (cheers). He asked Sir Pryee to accept the i!)q, not so much for their intrinsic worth, but as i mall token of the erratitude and esteem in which no ,.h held by his brother "Welshmen (loud cheers). Sir PBYCE PBYCE-JONHS, on rising to return thanks, was enthusiastically eheered. He said his heart was really too full by their kindness for him to himself to speak intheMcalwa-y. He (fould are them that the spontaneous greeting given him ) this occasion excelled all former ones, therefore would read to them what he had penned last night' dne-dij) instead of addressing them in the usual The speaker then read the following: I am chat in this vast and influential asaeroblaga 8 not one who doss not gympathiie with me on *rtji»ti occasion (applause). Yoa will readily understand my heart is too full to find words in which I to express half what I feel. This is perhaps the most touehing event in which I have ever participated. How can I thank you for those choice gifts whioh Lord Powia in such kind words presented to me ? I f el utterly unable, and I also feel I am unworthy to receive them (no, no). I could not stand here this evening, as the member for these Boroughs, resting only on my own individual merits. It is by your favour that I find myself in this proud position. Eighteen years ago the noble Marquis, whom we are all glad to see with us this evening, unfurled the banner of Conservatism among us—(cheers)— and after doing all that was possible for us, sought other fields ia which he could promote our cause. It was then I came forward, feeling,that if the work-nj-mon of these boroughs could only be educated to study for themee'ves they would soon find out who a e THE FRIENDS OF THE WORKING-MEN (cheers), and these, I contend, are the Conserv atives and not the Radicals (loud cheers). But I am not going to detain you this evening with matters political, for I am sure that you, like myaelf, are very anxious to hear Lord Londonderry, whom we have so Ion? wished should come among us. I think ha will congratulate you upon the good work which has be. n done amongst us since he was with us (hear, hear). I cannot suffer this opportunity to patB without publicly thanking the borough towns for the never-failing support accorded to me, and I g adly own that at Machynlleth. Newtown, Welsh- po 1, Montgomery, and Llanfj Ilia I have t. ue auu tried friends (applause), and I may say that at Llanidloes also I have a goodly number of faithful; friends (hear, hear). In a political battle, as in all other figats, we must have generals, captains, and lieutenants to lead our men to victory, and without able leaders we could not have won last year (hear, hear). To thank by name each one who assisted me would extend my remarks to a length which the time at my disposal does not permit. I must, however, now return my grateful thanks to each individual voter who hO faith. fully kept his promise, whereby I was triumphantly returned by the GLORIOUS MAJORITY OF 118. (loud applause). Reverting to the splendid offerings of which I have this evening been the recipient, I desire to say that to Lord Powis, Colonel Harrison, Mr Marshall Dugdale, Mr Addie, and Mr Joseph Evans I am deeply grateful for the time and pains they have be- stowed on that which I shall ever look back with feelings of natural and legitimate pride and satisfac- tion as reoalling over the proudest events in my life (applause). To every eubscriber I express my heart- felt acknowledements, assuring all that these magifi- cent piecei of silver will be handed down as heirlooms in my family to those who may come after, and who I trust will value them as amongst their choicest possessions (loud applause). Sir Pryce then gave a short account of HIS POLITICAL CAREBR He said it was about twenty to twenty-two years ago that he had the audicity to conceive the Montgomery boroughs were, not properly represented. He was told by his detractors, his i political opponents, that it would be easier to turn the course of the Severn than to show a Conservative working man. He could show hundreds (cheers). There were Conservative working-men in the room that night who were proud of the position they held, and for the work they had done in order to maintain a Tory Government and the Unionist party (ap- plause). It was also said that it would be easier to ago that he had the audicity to conceive the Montgomery boroughs were, not properly represented. He was told by his detractors, his political opponents, that it would be easier to turn the course of the Severn than to show a Conservative working man. He could show hundreds (cheers). There were Conservative working-men in the room that night who were proud of the position they held, and for the work they had done in order to maintain a Tory Government and the Unionist party (ap- plause). It was also said that it would be easier to show an angel or a while elephant—(laughter)—than a Tory or Conservative working man. They know that without the working-men's assistance, their labours and their sacrifices1 he would not be there that evening. However, so far back as November 25th, 1876, he dared to send out a circular calling a meeting, having for its object the formation of a Conservative Association in the boroughs. At that time they had no organisation, but that was its start. They knew the results (cheers). They had had difficulties, they had suffered great anLoyances, they had been abused by an unfair Press, by their political enemies, not by straightforward fighting or hitting, but they had been strook below the belt (cheers). However, the facts proved that the proof of the pudding was in the eating of it. Here they were, a strong and determined party, and they would fight even if it cost another t5,000-(claeers)- or £ 50,U00 (renewed cheering). PETITIONS OR NO PETITIONS, they would maintain their rights, let the consequences be what they might. Much had been said about the iniquitous petition. They beat their enemies in the open, in the light, in the polling booth, in fair argument, in numbers, such as they saw that night (cheers). Lord Salisbury, like himself, had also been a sufferer at the hands of the Kadical party. He had gained a verdict, but yet his Lsrdship was out of pocket £ 5,0)0, and so was he (Sir Pryce) ÍS.luw,). Th" thousand pounda required to be lodged according to the Act might be put, there by any ratepayer upon the register at the ctoee of the election. It might be done out of sheer spite, and though the man had taken tha risk of signing the (petition, ne mignt net be worth a XIO note in the world. (A. \oice .Nor yet J65"). He would not like to say anything hard or cruel against the three petitioners. Executions had been put in, not out of revenge.bocanse he thought he was the most forgiving man in Wales-(oheors)-but for the sake of prin- ni i-le, for the sake of deterring others to following in such A TAXSE AND SHAMEFUL COURSE. They Wvu "1." iatriy, equarely, honourably, and justly-(load cheen)-but they were not satisfied with that. Upon a private visit of his wife and him- self to a neighbouring town, not for a political tour, but to call upon a few friends in a casual way. They had not arrived in that town but a few minutes before their lives were in danger (" Shame"). They knew frt m reports, from eye witnesses, and he said it with sorrow and some amount of feeling, the risk that he and his wife ran upon that evening. They had really and truly to escape for their lives (" Shame"). That was fourteen days after the contest. Now, were not their friends a hard lot to please? The battle had been won fourteen days before, but yet they could not bury the hatchet, but must revenge themselves upon your member in that unfair and un-English manner. However, that had scarcely died away until he was threatened with a petition. The petition was signed, and by some strategy or other w £ 1,000 was found as the usual legal deposit. Where the money came from it would be his pleasure one of these days to explain (loud applause). He thought he was upon the right track. lie also thought the Act under which a petition could be brought should be amended. There were 86 charges brought against him and his friends. Not one of these were sustained (loud cheers). As soon as they were mentioned, it was like A GAME OF NINE PINS, one pin was knocked down one after the other -(laughter)-and there was nothing left (renewed laughter). He thought he might tell them this little bauter. Some few weeks ago an excellent supporter and friend of his, aud a tenant of Lord Powis, who brought out every year a number of well bred horses, showed him three hordes. The first, a fine blood horse, was christened Baron Pollock—(loud laughter) —the second, Jelf, Q.C.—(renewed laughter)—the third, a screw, it had no blood in it, they called Jack Withers tiond and continued laughter). The judges found and maintained and decided that there were no corrupt practices in his election. They knew where the corrupt praotices did occur. Why, workmen formerly living and belonging to'Llan- idloes, and who had gone to earn their living in North Wales, everyone of them was paid their rail. way fares, and every one was paid to go into the publio houses. They were tho men who complained about their illegal actio. At Welshpool they were industriously bribing all manner of persons to find out any cock or bull tale. Out of the 86 charges not one were they able to sustain (cheers). It was most unfair that after they had failed to prove tVeir charges that he should be put, after having a verdict for costs given in his favour, to such great expense. All that he had received towards his large expenses had been the £ 1,000. Permit him to tell them that their euemies had five mon ha in order to get up their case. How many days had be to find out the persons who were making those false accusations against them and himself? Ten days. As far as he was concerned he had to gallop about the country day and night to investigate those charges brought against AN INNOCENT PERSON. They did investigate them and found that they would not hold water. Consequently they got the verdict with full costs. The XI,000 was all that he received, but it was a mere drop in the Atlantic compared with the costs he had had to pay (shame.) Let him tell them that their opponents had been hunting high and low, and in all manner of clean and dirty places —it mattered not to them-for a candidate, but they had not found one yet (laughter). He did not know whether they would get one carved out of wood, or carved out of stone-(renewedi laughter)—but who. ever they might get, let him tell them that he was going to make use of on every platform on which he spoke, and he had no doubt his friends would do the same-that no honourable man could ever stand on a platform in the county without telling those whom I he sought to represent, Pay him his coats." Wten that was done they would respect their candidate, bat until that was done in his opinion no gentleman would come and mix up with a party that hid deliberlLtely and dishonestly ROBBED RIX OF OVER RA,000 (cheers). He thanked them from the bottom of his heart for this one out of many occasions on which he had received-uch kindness and support in Welshpool. He knew their fidelity and their regard for him personally as well as for the cause he represented- (abeerp)-and without the support of Welshpool encouragement that the other boroughs had received, he assured them that he knew not what would be the representation of the borough that day. With their aid and encouragement and assistance they could defy even the Grand Old Man himself (loud cheers). He thanked them. He knew they were longing to hear the speech of Lord Londonderry, whom he thought was deserving of the highest praise for the excellent work which he was doing for the Unionist party, which was such that generations yet unborn would thank the name of Londonderry (cheers). The EARL OF Powis then presented the following address to the Marquis of Londonderry from the United Habitations of the Primrose League through. the county :— To the Most Ilonble the Marquis of Londonderry, K.G We, the United Habitations of the Primrose League in the county of Montgomery, beg to offer a hearty welcome to your Lordship on the occasion of this im- portant visit to the Principality, and to assure you how fully we appreciate the eneryy and zeal which has distinguished your Lordship's action throughout the present political crisis. We also desire to con- gratulate you on your. uccellsful administration of the law, and the peaceful state of Ireland during your Lordship's tenure of office under Lord Salis- bury's Government, and to assure you of the warm feeling uf friendship which exists among those with whom you were formerly associated in this county. The MARQUIS OF LONDONDERRY, who was reo ceived with loud cheers and the singing of He's a jolly good fellow." said he was at a loss to find words with which to thank thfm for the hearty and en- thusiastic manner in which they had received him. When be received the invitation to address a meeting in Welshpool, he relied on meeting with a reception of more than an ordinary kind. He did not antici- pate the reception on account of anything which he himself had done, but he recognised the fact that the people of Welshpool knew that he was to a certain extent connected with them by ties of affection and moreover he believed they would recognise the fact .a.nol 1. J, -J "-L.L L' L l_ 1/ J UUUTJ iIX3 .u CBJJUU3CU bum* Unttast), WDICD Lie oenevtu to be a righteous one-the cause of maintaining that great constitution under which the people of Great Britain and Ireland had lived up till now, a happy, contented and prosperous people (cheers). As he entered the boundaries of Mk.,nt-,Omeryabire-thoi e boundaries which separated it from Shropshire—he could not, help his mind reverting back to those happy days of childhood-days spent in the other part of the lovely corner of the county, with which he was glad to think he was connected with through his mother (cheers). He also recollected the time when the Conservative party of the Boroughs asked him to champion their cause. He remembered in 1878 when he had the honour of contesting the Borough seat that there were none who accorded him more MATERIAL ASSISTANCE OR MORE TRUE AND GENUINE ADVICE than their present member (loud cheers). He was young and inexperienced, and perhaps did not repre- sent the cause so ably as he might have done, but that had been left to Sir Pryce-Jones. He had aroused that enthusiasm in the constituency which only a real, true, honest Conaervative could arouse 0 (cheers). He had proved that Montgomeryshire so for from being a Radical stronghold, was now a safe Unionist seat (hear, hear). The Unionist party of Montgomeryshire had shown their appreciation of his efforts by asking his acceptance of a proof which he would hand down to posterity, that he rescued the Montgomery Boroughs from the Radical power (loud cheers). He thanked the members of the I various habitations of the Primrose League for presenting him with an address. He could assure them that in fighting the battle of the Union, and consequently that of the Primrose Leage, he was guided by one aim and desire, that was to benefit the county to which he belonged, and to prevent it from being handed over to a body of men who had NOTHING BUT POLITICAL OBJECTS in view (hear, hear, and applause). He trusted the Primrose League would not relax their efforts. They had a great future before them. They could materially assist in that which was essential for victory—organization and registration. Ladies as well as men could work in this cause, and he was convinced that if only the system of organization and registration was properly looked after and attended to in all parts of the kingdom, they would prove that maintenance of the Union was not a vain and useless expression, but that they were carrying out to the letter a great policy originated by one of Eng- land's greatest leaders, and whose favourite flower was that which formed the emblem and badge they wore (loud cheers). Before touching upon the pli. important question of Ireland he would first allude to the DANGERS WHICH THREATENED THE WELSH CHURCH. He knew full well that in trespassing on that ground there were many present who were far more con- versant with the subject, and far more capable of dealing with it than he was, but he wanted to put before them the line which he, as a humble member of one branch of legislation, intended to take when that matter came before them, and a line which he thought the Conservative party were bound to follow. He knew well that it had been stated by the leaders of the Gladstonian party that a large number of the Welsh members, who were so strongly in favour of Disest iblisbment, regarded ffith far more interest the question of Disestablishment than they did that of the maintenance of the Union. What did it prove to them? That the bribe of the Disestablishment of the Wehh Church was only held out by Mr Gladstone in the speech which he made at Newcastle, and which was known as the Newcastle programme, simply to ensure the support of those members in favour of Disestablishment to assist him in carrying out that measure which he evidently had on the brain-Home Rule for Ireland (laughter and cheers). They might be told that the Disestablishment of the Welsh Church was not without precedent, because THE IRISH CHURCH WAS DISESTABLISHED in 1869, by the Radical Government. With that question he at once joined issue. He maintained that the principle and situation of Irish and Welsh Churches were totally dissimilar and totally different (cheers). He would not enter into details, but his state- ment was endorsed by Mr Gladstone-who in 1870 said "That it would be a gross exaggeration to profess that anything like a resemblance of the general position exists between Wales and Ireland or in the attitude of the members of the Church in Wales, on the one hand, and the members of the Nonconformist bodies on the other." Then a year later he says I would not say what it would be right to do, provided Wales was separttd from England in the Eame way as Ireland, and provided the case for Wales stood in full and complete analogy to that of Ireland in regard to religious differences, but the direct contrary of this is the truth. It is practically impossible to separate the case of Wales from that of England." If those were the circumstances of the case then how very much greater were they now. Of that they could have no doubt. The real antagonism was because the Welsh Church since that day had increased in strength and improved its position most materially in the Principality (cheers). Mr Gladstone in 1871 said that the Church of Wales possessed a quarter of its population. Two years ago Mr Gee, the editor of the timer, gave the Nonconformist strength as 50 per cent, of the population. He knew full well the ob- jection which could be urged, that the other 50 per cent. did not necessarily belong to the Church of Wales. He admitted it, but he claimed that a large number of Nonconformists and Roman Catholics were supporters of and '-assisted to maintain the Church of Wales, because it recognised the existence of Cristianity (cheers). There was a singular diffi- culiy as to beicg able to distinguish which was the Church of Wales and the Church of England, because of the boundaries laid down. But the four sees of Wales were in the province of Canterbury, and THERE COULD BE NO DIFFERENCE between the Chureh of Wales and the Church of England, and what would damage the one would of necessity damage the other. If the Welsh Church was to be disestablished the English Church must also be disestablished, and if one Church were dis- established bath Churches were in danger (cheers). Mr Gladstone confessed openly to having changed his mind with regard to the disestablishment of the Welsh Church, because of the vast maioritv of her representatives who were in favour of it. W If that argument were good, he (the speaker) contended that if four sees in any other part of the province of Canterbury possessed a majority in favour of Dia- establishment,the English Church in that part of the country must be disestablished because the majority required it. He said at once that a course more perilous, more ridiculous, could not be conceived by any Prime Minister (cheers). He found the English language in Wales had made extraordinary progress. At the present time there were 500,000 inhabitants of the Principality who desired to have religious instruction in English, while the Welsh language was administered bv Nonconformity to only about one-fifth of the population. He knew that the Non- conformists had made great efforts, but up to the present their efforts bad not been crowned with success, for at the Nonconformist chapels it was a fact that only four out of every thousand attended communion service (hear, hear) If the Church was disestablished it would probably be disendowed, and consequently IT WOULD BE RUINED (laughter). How did they propose to educate their children? It could not be done by the Nonconform- ists, for he understood on good authority that the Calvinistic Methodists, the Baptists, and Independent sects were in debt nearer one million than .2800,000. The Church was determined to maintain its position (cheers). Duricg the past 35 years the English sei- vices had increased by 100,000. No lees than 750 additional clergymen had been appointed, while £ 2,500,000 had heen expended on buildings, and 46 per oftt of the children were eduoa in the obaroh schools (cheers). He said that to disestablish the" Church for purely nolitical purposes would be 1D01k strous, an act of confiscation and plundot, and would be regretted by the spoilators to their dying day, and by the children yet uiiborn (cheers). He wished to isopnSff1 upon them nit to be too apathetic, but to realise that the Church was in danger. He did not addrMM^ T them from any party or political point of view, btiV IT WAS THlIa. DUTY to ally themselves and all lovers of the Church In Wales, to combine and devote themselves heart and soul to further the causeof the Unionist party, wbov he trusted shortly to see in power (cheers.) The' Unionist party was merely kept out of power for a-- man who only desired the disintegration of the .I!}aa. pire, and who used the Disestablionment of their Church an a stepping stone to obtain that result. L'he noble lord next turned his attention to Iieland, with which subject he dealt at considerable length* During the course of his speech he made several re- markable assertions, among which was that Home Rule was discussed on every Unionist platform at tbir last general election, but net on every Radical plat. form. Mr Gladstone was next likened to a cuttle- hsh, after which his lordship painfully laboured to put the Grand Old Man on the horns of a dilemma, and finally concluded with an audacious challenge to the Prime Minister Earl Spencer did net oacape the noble speaker's attention, nor did the idle hands of the representatives of the Press, for they were coun- selled to take down the Marquis's words, as he wae anxious for Earl Spencer to read them and enter into a controversy. Passing on the speaker affirmed that if Home Ru e were granted to Ireland, it would meatt IRELAND'S RUIN AND BANKRUPTCY. At present the English nation received interest on the money she had advanced, but under the rule of Mr Dillon or Mr W. O'hrien he did not think their money would be very secure. Capital would fly from Ireland, and the great English centres of iadusty would be flooded with Irish labourers, and the competition for employment would be so raat that the working man would have to work -for- Icie wage3. In excess of what she now cost England,- Ireland would cost.41,880 000. Under the Act ot 1891 there were still 30 millions of money to be advanced to Ireland, and that with her other debt would renerd her liable to pay over X6, 000,000 per year interest. The Irish members were then denounced, the loyal UittMr minority were exalted, Mr Gladstone was staked to have not hardly a supporter in the whole of Ireland, and shortly afterwards his Lordship subsided amidst tremendous cheering and hurrahs. Mr ROBT. WYNNE, Unionst candidate for the county, on risirg to propose a resolution, was to- ceived with cheers. He said it was with great pleasure that he rose to ask the meeting to aocord ite best thanks to the Marquis of Londonderry, K.Q., for tie e ojuent and tpirited address which be bad delivered. They ail taew a great dtal about hi» lordship. He was a firm administrator, and daring his rule Ireland became bettor and stronger, and be thought he had come auiongsc them at an auspiokxiifr moment, to celebrate the success of their hvroogb member. He had won a double victory, first in as open fight at the polls; secondly, a victory against lawyers, clouds of witnesses, against the spito of a section of the opposite party. lie was glad he bad returned to health, and he trusted he might have strength to keep that whica he had already WOU (cheers). A FORLORN HOPE. He hoped the eame result would happen in the county (loud cheering). The speaker next referred to Mr Gladstone s speech at Edinburgh, and having fsid "'ho P"üWW'll.'I" 1I'W.ou 1.1,,1 WMV V wuxaeu, aa expreebion irmw was heartily cbeered, the orator said Mr Gladstone defended himself in a cloud of words. They heard very little from his lieutenants. Ho sconwd the usages of debate, and relied on his own Irish jury, and when tongue failed, on their right arms. Even then they could not fight fair, but attacked the Conservatives from behind (loud cheers). The only thing Mr Gladstone spoke about at Edinburgh was the Parish Councils Bill, which no one had a word to say against, because at present they did not know what it was. He had given Wales nothing bnt bare promises (ote r). They saw him last summer on the slopes of Snowdon, and what did he do ? Me stirred BP the bitier anger and malice botween one sect aso another, and he had shown no sympatny with the agricultural depression through which they wer,) now passing. Why did he not assist them with their rates with his Parish Councils Bill, and fill our hay barns, and bring back the prosperous days that used to be in this country. Let him leave Ireland alone and lwk- after his own country a little better. One thing Iod-L Londonderry did u,t refer very mucu to, oud that; was Mr Gladstone's remarks about the House of Lord. Mr Gladstone had accused the House of Lords of everything in the world, and why ? Because it had the temerny to oppose his imperious will. Because they studied the wish of the country rather than the wish of Mr Gladstone (cheers). He thought it would be a bad day for England if it had not done so. He finuhed up his biitet attack by saying that perhaps they had an absuact right to oppose any bill that came from the Commons, but what abstract right had Mr Gladstone for flying in the face of honcety and precedent and mauly feeling, and prq)4 venting the House of Commons from giving free utterance to its wants and its wishes ? (cheeis). WHO GAGGED DEBATE? Who sent up to the ilouso ot Commons 30 clauses out of the 3i) which were never debated at ail? lbat was Mr Gladstone, and yet he was the man who accused the House of Lords of acting cn an abotract, light only. He admired the 5UO who stood up for the welfale of their country, and opposed the policy of a o-ce grand Liberal leauer, but nLw notning bat a would-be dictator. Col. R. J. HARRISON seconded. He was exceed- ingly glad to welcome back the noble Marquis who had spent so much of his childhood in the county, and whose family had sought to promote all that con- duced to the well-being of the people they Jived amongst (cheers.) They well-remembered the deter- mined battle his Lordship fougut in 1877, when to their deep regret and loss to the borougtis he waa defeated. But they owed Lord Londondeiry a deep debt of gratitude, because he considered that his ex", ample iu 1877 was due to the spirit and determination which was shown and at last triumphed at tie general election (cheers.) Ihey had met that night to do honour to their member (cheers ) There was no need for him to call attention to the manner or part which his Lordship took in the affairs of the country, bul; he could assure the noble Marquis that Montgomery- shire had watched with great interest his successful career (cheers ) Not only as Lord-Lieutenant of Ire. land, but also for the manner in waich he had fought with unfailing vigour the battle of the Union. It wae his good fortune to visit his Lordship at his seat in Ireland, and he could testify to the esteem and en- thssiastic praise which was given him on all hands. He aincelely hoped nis speech would have lasting effect, and that at no distant date they would have the satisfaction of knowing that Mr Robert Wynne accompanied Sir Pryce-Jones to Parliament (loud cheers ) They were especially grateful to his Lord- ship for ccmmg there to address them that night, and they hoped he would long be spared to render to his country his valuable services, in helping to maÍD. tain the liberty, the honour, aLd prosperity of the united kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland (loud cheers.) The motion was put and carried with great accla- mation. Lord LONDONDERRY, in reply, said he hoped that they would return Sir Pryce fryce-Jones with an in- creased majority, and also Mr Robert Wynne for the county (cheers.) Captain D. H. MYTTON proposed that the meeting acknowledged most cordially Lord Powis's able con* duct in the chair, and thanked him for the great. kindness he had always taken in the Unionist cause. They had met to do honour to a citizen, who by his indefatigable industry and determination had w.ested the seat from the Liberal party. He recol- lected the last great meetiug held in the hall. It wae enthusiastic and augured well for victory, atid ho then thought Sir Pryce would win. They thanked Lord Powis for the interest which he took in the Unionist cause by kin, by position, by birth. He had ample time to atr.rlv tho nnlitir.nl tuViionta h""f"" tka country. They had the votes, and all that wae wished was to influence them for good. They did not want them TO LISTEN TO THE AGITATORS who would rend them asunder, but men like Lord- Powis, by meeting them on every occasion, was able to influence them, be hoped, for good. They thanked' him for presiding. He was one of the members of tbe- House ot Lords who threw out the Home Rule Bill, and he maintained he had a perfect right to do so- (cheers ) They only hoped he would use his vast in. fluence on every occasion for the prosperity of the, Unionist cause (cheers.) Mr J. MARSHALL DUGDALE seconded. With' Lord Powis in the ohair, they had the right man in. the right place (cheers.) He had given them his word that if they would work with him they should win,, and he thought they could fairly trust themselves, I TaI U the boroughs and- the county worked hard there was no earthly reason why they should not have two representatives in, Parliament, instead of one. SometimA norrk waa. r a good deal of talk about changing seeds aud chang- ing the potatoe, let them change it again (loud- cheers ) The motion was put and carried with ringing cheers, and in reply the noble CHAIRMAN said be thanked them most heartily for thankicg him. He felt he deserved no thanks, but if he aid they could best show it by giving :Sir Pryce-Jcnes a colleague in the county, so that they might go solid for the Union (loud cheers.) The meeting then concluded by aingirgthe National Maa.