The Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Times

PRIMROSE L1 AGUE SOCIAL MEETING AT WELSHPOOL. On Thursday the members of the Powia Habitation of the Primrose League held a social eveuing at Welshpool. The proceedings opened at 6 p.m. with a tea, which was provided in the Corn Exchange. The tables were adorned with vases of flowers, and a large number of people sat down. The post of tea- maker was by no means an easy one, and the energies of Mrs Mytton, Mrs Broadberry, Powis Castle, Miss Parry, Mansion House, Miss Davies, High Street, Miss M. Morris, Mrs Genth, Goilsfield, Miss Thomas, High-street, Miss Ciarke, Lion, Mra Shuker, Miss Morgan, Mrs Salter, Mrs Yearsley, Miss Hill, The Cottage, Miss Hole, Garth Hail, and Miss Ouver, Grapes Inn, were taxed to the utmost. These ladies were ably assisted by Miss Mytton, Garth, the Misses Davies, Miss Hurst, Berriew-street, Miss Morgan, Mrs Jones, near Station, and Miss Waine, High-street. The meal concluded, an adjournment was made into the large hall upstairs, where a capital entertainment, consisting of tableaux, songs, and instrumental selections were given. Tne oommo- dious room was literally packed, among the audience being the Earl of Powis (Ruling Councillor), the Coiiiitess of Powis, General Herbert, Capt. and Mrs D. H. Mytton aud family, Mr J. E. Fincham (pro- vincial secretary of the North Wales District ot the Primrose League), the Mayor of Welshpool (Coun- cillor E. O. Jones), Rev Grimaldi and Mrs Davis, Rev Llewelyn Jones, Mr aud Mrs Forraster Addie, Mr G. D. and Mrs Harrison and family. Hev J. S. Lewis, Guilsfield, Dr Gill, Dr Murston, Dr HaWks- worth, Mr J. Ghent, Mrs Ghent and family, Mrs Westby, Mr and Miss Lane, Capt. and Mrs Tigar, Mr Winnall, Mr Fitzhugh, Mr and Mrs Farmer, Mr D. Richards, Mr and Mrs Ireland, Mr and Mrs J. P. Morris, Miss Thomas, Mrs D. P. Uwen, Mr R Owen, MI8 Wall, etc. At the top of the room a temporary stage had been erected. The trout was adorned withchrysanthtmums in bloom, varied ferns, grasses and geraniums, kindly lent by Lord Powis, and tastefully arian^ed by Mr Lamb«rt. Flowers were also kindly sent by Mr* Hawksworth, Miss Parry, Ma: sion House, and other ladies. The whole of tIe arrangements were successfully superintended by a. cjmmi.tee coueisting of Mrs Addie, Miss Parry, Mrs Salter, Mr Parfy (Church Bank), Mr M. Shuker, and Mrs ishuker (hoa. sec.), assisted by Messrs Turner, W. M Iseiand ana Peacock. Lord"Powis presided, and he briefly called upon Mrs Hawksworth and Miss Hi:l to open th* programme with a pianoforte duet. The artiste one and ail performed spie:ldid!y, while the table-tux were exceedingly effective. fi.e bdied and gtsnriii- lllell taking part in the taoleaux were Mrs Kerr, M s tiawksworth, Mrs Pryce, Vliss Davidson, L aii- dysilio, Miss Amy Lewis, Mrs Thomas, Mrs Add, Mr Simpson Jones, Mr RAVVSOI aud Air Wa d, PLL k- lane. The following was the programmme :-Dnet, Mrs Hawksworth and Miss Hid song and chorus Land of my Fathers." Miss Francis tableau King Lesr and Cordelia"; song The Village Blacksmith," Mr E. Lewis: s.ng "Dearie," Mms Jet-man; musical lableau (by kind permission ot V Oyiey Carte) The three little maids from school lectia- :,ion The signaiman," Mr Peacock; eong "Tne Spring legend," Mrs J. Morris tableau of heartscomic song with bango Sav.Lin&c home," Messrs xieed aud Arthur; fairy beds Se- lected," Mr C. Sapple song h I love the merry sunshine," Miss A. Pryca tableau Wooing ot llenry V. song Trie death of Nelson," Mr E. Lewis; 8on The rivr of years," Miss Francis; musical tableau The three fishers" song In the elumney corner," Miss Jerinan; comic soug D^iwii [in tie valiey," Messrs Reed and Arthur; chorus '•John Brown finalo Go 1 save the Queen." Daring the ovening the noble CHAIRMAN calimi upon Mr J. E. F.ncha-u to deliver an address upon the principles and objects of the Primrose League." In d >ing so his lord.sbip saiu that the Primrose Le iguo that night was e/i but he would remind thtiin that they we>-e not always giving theuistlves up to pleasure, but they had reai a-nd seii us work to i do. On that v,rlc Ntv Fiiieb im would give them a short address. Mr Fincham WIlS the provincial sec- rotary for North Wales, and he was glad to be ab-c to inform him than the Powis Habitation was doing real good work (cheeis.) Mr FINCHAM, who was cordially greeted, said his first daty was to congratulate aud comp-twent the | hor. secretary, the executive council, and the com- mittee of management, who haa carried out so suc- cessfully this, he might say, great entertainment. He might also inform them that it would pive him very gieat pleasure on his return home to report to the Grand Council that not only were they able to get up so large a demonstration as he saw before him, but also that the officers of the Habi: ation under- stood what real organization of their great League meant. He was in London a short time back and saw Mr Lane-Fox, vice-chancellor of the Primrose League, and the first question he put to him (the speaker) was How is Welshpool getting on P He was pleased to inform him of the great strides the Powis Habitation had made during tne last year, and when he told Mr Lane-Fox that ho was going to Welshpool shortly, Mr Lane-Fox desired him to say that he was pleased and delighted to hear such good news as to the flourishing and heaithy condition of the League. For the accomplishment of this suocess great c,edit rested upon Lord Powis and the officers of the Le gue (cheers.) He would briefly exp ain to them the principles of the League, so that in coming to tne meeting they could not ouly get amusement but instruction. Thera were many men in the room who did nut belong to the League, and he would try to give them tin outline of its history. Ten years ago their great League was formed by some gentle- men who had assembled in a room in Victoria-street, London. The League from that moment to the pre- sent time had never looked back. He wou:d tell them why lie thought it had never looked back, and that was because at the time of starting the nn ve- ment was not taken up by the leaders of the party. The gentlemen connected with the League appealed to the peoplejof England, Scotland and Wales, and the result was that to-day they had 1,040,000 mem- bers, with 2,020 habitations, distributed over Eng. land, Scotland. Wales, and he was pleased to say, Ireland (cheers.) A short time ago, at the instance I of the Grand Council, he went to Ireland. It was not onen teas ne accepted the advice given by Mr Gladstone, but when he went to Ireland he did re- member Miohelstown" (laughter.) He went to that town, and with the great help of Lady Mary Alworth one of the hardest workers for the U nion in Ireland, they were able to found a habitation in Michelstown (cheers.) At the start they had about 50 members, and when he was over there a short time ago the membership had increased to 400 (renewed cneers). What was the principles or teaching of iheir great league? They were very simple. All they wanted to do was to make men and women good and honest citizens. They maintained that religion was the first thing a Government should be founded on, and no Government could exist which was not founded upon religion (cheers). If they looked back on past history they would find his words perfectly true. Immediately France gave up her religion there came the time of terrorism. If they went back to the time when thd Athenians gave up the worship of their gods, even then they were carried off captives at the wheels of their enemies. The Primrose League was not a sectarian association, fo- they had in their ranks Churchmen, Nonconformists, and even Salva- tionists, altogether a thorough mixture. Thtoy must believe in a God. They said that no man could be a good citizen without he believed in a Deity. They were fighting tooth and nail against afchei;m(cheers). He believed that if they did not give their chiioien a religious education, the time would coma when this great empire would sink back into a second rate power. When a country gave up its religion tLen it began to go back. He would tell them why they were fighting against the Disestablishment and Dis- endowment of the Church. What they Paid was that they were trying to do. away with something which was the property of a religious body, and were not setting anything in that religious body's place. It was simply, to use a strong word, sacrilege, if they were taking away property which had been dedicated to God, ana not putting anything in its place. The sec nd principle was they must maintain the con- sti ution in all its greatness and its grandeur. He though tat the present time they had their work cut out to hold up the constitution. If Mr Gladstone could have his way he would have a slap at the House of Lords, but he was thankful to say that the people of England were far too sensible to agree to that, tor they saw whit a great benefit they had be-in to the country in stopping Mr Gladstone's pet scheme being carried into law. The constitution was not a con- stitution which had been built in a minute, or in four or five days, or in a month, but our constitution has been growing through the history of 1000 years and with the requirements of the oountry. Their third great principle was the integrity of the empire. T.1 ii an empire was pujied to pieces, that empire must surely fall. It was difficult to break a bundle of sticks when tied together, but if the band were broken the sticks were easily L-eparat ed, and that was tile case with Ireland. If the bond which bound that country to England was broken, there would be some other friends ou the Continent having a slap at them. They had also to tight against the agitators of the day. if a wcrking- man had various opinions he had a perfect rLht if he pleased to lay them before his fellow workmen. He maintained that they must, not oncourasre those agitators who weut about the country te ch:ng the working-men doctrines which they kn -w t be wrong, while their only object was to put their hi-d* in the workmen's pockets, and then fay Good-bye." Having related all anecdote bearing un tl-ii- point, he said all they asked the Radicals to do was to read both sides, and by the organisation i hey could make them do that. lo the ladies and gentlemen who took an irterest, in the Primrose l,eigue he wauie; give a word of advice. When they were going cbout doing good, distributing literature, Uuionist papers, he asked them never to say anything to h ort, the feelings of any per sons who- did not hold the same principles as themselves. They might depend that they would never get any converts if they flew at thdm on the first occasion of meeting and told them tnat they were blackguards (laughter). They should simply place the lSSlhs before them, and if thira was any doubt on any point to send for certain leaflets. He was quite sure that having truth, right and justice on their side they would win (cheers,) Tr,e Primrose League wished to fight against Socialism. They would often see agitators on a tub outside a public house on Sunday mornings in large towrs. He listened to one of these gentlemen holding forth on one occasion, and he heard him tell the poor unfortu- nate working man .that if the Queen, die House of Lords were abolished, all the members of the HouQe of Commons should be paid, and they would have no magistrates or policeman, they would be better off. As soon as halfpast twelve came, an i tli3 pubiiehouse opened, the orator lost his audience, and at the same time his umbrella disappeared; and the oian then called out for a policeman, one of the very men he had been abusing (loud laughter.) The speaker con- eluded by stating that he should have much pleasure in recommending Lord Powis to the Grand Council for the Grand Star (loud cheers.) Hi, Lordship had done good service, and he hoped he would continue to render them his great assistance. H.. should also bo pleased to report the success of Mrs Shuker's labours as hon. secretary to the Grand Lodge (loud cheers.) Captain MYTTON said they were g'rd indeed to h?ar that Lord FowiB was to be recommended to the Grmd C uucil for the Grand Star ( car, hear). It wmb canTe Lord Powis had brought before them the promise of a useful life that they esteemed him so highlv (appl iu-e). He thought ,oi"e ai.d all must be extremely gratified at the ulpasanf. pv^nin.-r thoT had spent, whrjti they attributed entirely to the abU- conduct of hi* loidship in the chair. lie beggud to propose a vote of thanks to him. Mr ROBERT JONES seconded the proposal, which wa- carrii d ami :st, pplause. The Noble CHAIRMAN, in reply, sail In though' C;lp- Mytt in fcad placed the cap on the w,oni! per- eo«, for the s-ucc^s of the mee'ing w.a« u it due to hini, b-it to the committer and secret n-y o had oarrit-d Cêlt the a-r:i1"A'ementil so ably. He f It it a great honour th-t Mr Fincham had i,im worthy of the Grind Star, an I he coul i onie say that h>i thought iv was a great incentive t1 them a:l to fssiat the Le igue w ten they found they cu,t rec ivp dec trati as for ta-ks so easy as hi3 Tlau-hter and a.»plan.~e). He proposed a vote of thsr.ks» to the committee and performers, who had given them the very greatest pleasure. Dr GrLL seconded the vote of thank3, which was accorded with three hearty rounds of cheers, Lord Pow t, being honoured in a similar nan iet.

A DISGRACE TO NEWTOWN. I IT is now some years since the Newtown and Llanllvchaiarn Local Board provided Cemetervat a cost of about X6,000, which amount was raised by loan. Principally for sanitary reasons the local authority took ,e1)s for provision of a burial ground, but although so long a time has elapsed, the Cemetery is not used by a large section of the people. This means loss of revenue to the Board, consequently an extra burden is thrown tlpon the rates. Every generation should provide for itself, but if the present State of affairs continues much longer, the present generation will have paid not only for accommodation for themselves in death, but also for their children. It is now time the question was settled, and why does the Stibieet remain in abeyance ? The Church party will not agree to the rite of dedication, zn but insist on the performance of the cere- mouv of consecration. The Nonconform- ists of Newtown greatly outnumber their -Church brethren, and on the ground of fair- ness, their claim for religious equality, and conscientious scruples, they stoutly oppose the celebration of a rite which gives the in- cumbent of the parish a vested interest in them on death. If consecration takes place, a financial burden follows. Lord Chief Justice COLERIDGE has laid down the law that the consecrated Cemetery is an exten- sion of the churchyard within the district to be served by the Cemetery, and over wmeh the clergyman would have almost the &snw rights and privileges as of yore. The Cemetery was provided at the public cost, fbttd by consecration the ratepayers would virtually present a churchyard to the clergy- witti, This important topic has been re- ferred to in our columns over and over inr and until the question is buried we shall continue to do so. The upholders of religious equality are bound to fight against this iniquitous claim, which means the en- dowment of one religious sect which in the iown is decidedly in a minority. Bad ,a.s this state of affairs is, the diffi- culty is not .insurmountable; if the Church- men of the town will act as sensible men, willing to recognise the bonds of a common citizenship, which unites them to their fel lows, and to forget the unreal and valueless distinctions which some people are so des- perately anxious to perpetuate. A Church- man is taught to believe that if a bishop performs a religious ceremony over a certain piece of ground, he inoculates it with a Virions sort of sanctity, and makes it de- eidedif superior to that in which the Dis- senter is laid to rest. He has a perfect right to maintain his opinion and fight for hi-g beliefs with equal ardour as the Noncon- formist for religious equality. But all he ean morally fight for is dedication, which as a re!ij?kms ceremony we have never objected to. Dedication is precisely the same reli- giously as consecration. The only secular 41iff.t,i,r,eiiee is that consecration confers cer- tain leiral powers upon the clergyman, while dedication does not. Dedication will not cause the sacrifice of any religious principle or the abandonment of any sacred trust eomtmtted to the Church, because the FATHER of men never intended that one of his ministers should receive payment for services which his brother has performed. The late BISHOP of ST. ALBANS said, after he had dedicated a Cemetery in that fsithedral town, that he regarded the cere- mony of dedication as a peaceful solution of that which was disturbing many minds. The adoption of this ceremony in lieu of consecration is becoming more prevalent, ard numerous instances can be cited where it hss been performed, and satisfactorily ended all disputes. Other towns have been placed in the same difficult situation as Newtown, but by tj I Churchmen sensibly agreeing to dedication, jt has been the means of healing the wounds and ending the disputes in which the Established and Free Churches had been engaged. Churchmen get what they want without imposing unnecessary burdens npón Nonconformists. We do not agree with the principle of consecrating half of ,the Cemetery When a line of demarcation is drawn through the ground it is symboli- .e;\1 of the House of Lords. Yet there re- rnamii a great and profound authority, given I bv Mr GLASCODINE, an itinerant Church ifefence orator, erstwhile barrister, that .even .in heaven there is not religious equality, because we are told there are seven celestial cities. The majority of the common folk .■agree that there is one heaven and one door of entrance. Surely if that is so, and it is ,.ibe fundamental teaching of the Church of England, is it decent to maintain religious differences at the tomb, after which all stand on the same footing ? If a Dissenter a buried by his own minister in consecrated ground, his relatives have to hand over to the clergyman sundry fees, as well as pav- ing the demands of the Burial Board. But ihe Cemetery being dedicated all differences ,sink, the Churchmen gaining their points while the Dissenter cares not a jot where his body is stowed away after he has ifhuffted off- this mortal coii. The Church- men of Newtown complain of politics being introduced into local elections, but their Dbeenting brethren are bound to maintain a. majority on the Local Board to prevent I Any attempt at consecration being carried "out, The Churchmen have it within their jkTBrct' to end this continued striie. At pre- seui they are the aggressors and the guilty parties, but it they consent to apply to the "Biahop of ST. ASAPH, there is hardly any fioubt but that he would dedicate the ground. This is the only satisfactory solu- lion to the present difficulty of Newtown tCemetBry, and we trust this longstanding disgrace will be speedily removed by the ■<jKriVve and prompt measures taken by .Churchmen.

Mr Stuart Rendel, M.P., leaves England for his -da- (Tuesday). lI>iq, ed u. copy of the Cambrian Railways time «>ti tor tlio winter Ber vice. Ifc consists "Sf,« handy sized b^ok and contains full information at she local linj through train services to the great tL l8.

MONTorOMERYSHiTlE t STANDING JOINT COMMITTEE. I A meeting of the Montgomeryshire Joint Committee was held on Friday morning at the Police Station, Newtown, Captain D. H. Mytton, presiding, and there were also present: Messrs A. C. Humphreys- Owen, John Jenkins, R. E. Jones, Richard Lloyd, George Morgan, Richard Rees, Richard Morgan, W. Theodore, Captain Hay hurst-France, R. O. Perrot, and W. Gardiner; with Messrs G. D. Harrison, cierk. R. Powell, assistant clerk. G. A. Hutchius. chief surveyor, and Deputy-Cnief Constable Crowden. CHIEF-CONSTABLE'S REPORT. The CiEiiEP- CON STABLE reported that the number of indictable offences was 18, number discovered, 15, number of persons proceeued against, 13, and of these six were committed or trial, three discharged, and four dealt with summarily. The number of per- sons proceeded against for non-indictable offences was 330; of these 282 were convicted, and 48 dis- charged. The value of property stolen was X14 9s 9d and 4d recovered. During the quarter, 6,505 tramps had been noted at the workhouses and lodging huuses by the police, this being an increase of 1,441 as compared with the corresponding quarter la&t year, the increase being principally at the work- houses. Major Godfrey, chief-cons table of Derby- shire, applied for police assistance on 11th September in consequence of the strifce at the colleries in that county. One sergeant and eleven constables were dispatched there on 15th September, two returned on tne 17th October, and the remainder on the 8th Nov- ember. The claim for their services had been sent which amounted to .£312 6s 9d, of which .£112 6d 9d would be credited to the police account, £ 153 5s to the pension fund, and < £ 4t> 15s would go to the men for off-beat allowance. During the quarter one con- stable resigned and one joined. The lorce was now complete, and the conduct satisfactory. The CHAIRMAN said with reference to the Chief- Constable of Derby, he had received a letter from him asking if the Joint Committee could see its way to reduce the charge for superannuation, and point- ing out that the Secretary of State had said that 28 to 35 per cent was a reasonable charge, but the Montgomeryshire Standing Joint Committee had! charged 150 percent. Continuing, he said there were the sergeant and eleven constables sent to Derby. Mr it. LiiOYD asked if the agreement between Major Godfrey and Mr Hughes was the same as that between Montgomery and Shropshire at the time of the election petition ? The CHAIRMAN I believe it is, precisely. D.C.C. CKOWDKN Yes, it is. The CHAIRMAN remarked that he did not quite understand why the sum of 58 per day was cnarged to the Pension Fund. D.C.C. CROWDEN said it was the charge for the officers' services, and was paid to the County Fund, and not to the Pension Fund. The CHAIRMAN suggested that the Clerk should reply, stating that the bill made out by the Chief Constable was in accordance with the agreement, and that the deduction therefrom tor food and lodgings supplied by the chief constable of Derby had already been made. Mr HUMPHREYS-OWEN The agreement is one in use throughout the county, and is printed. The CHAIRMAN Yes, it is stamped. Mr HUMPHREYS-OWEN seconded, and the motion was agreed to. SATISFACTORY. The CLERK said he had received a certificate from the Home Secretary, stating that the force had been tfficiently sustained, both in point of numbers and discipline. THE HEALTH OF THE CHIEF CONSTABLE. With regard to the absence of Mr R. W. Hughes, Chief Constable, ti.e CHAIRMAN aid he baa been ordered to Hastings for the benefit ot his health, and knowing that the committee would not meet until that day, he had taken the liberty of granting him leave ot absence. He had received i letter from Mr Hughes, enclosing a medical certificate to the (ffect that Mr Hughes was still unable to return to duty and he begged to move that they allow him a further 14 days. Mr JENKINS seconded, and the motion was carried. j POLICE CLOTHING. J The next business on the agenda was the cousidera- tion of tenders for the supply of police clothing. The CHAIRMAN explaiued that the committee ap- pointed to consider the tenders had not met becaute the force did not require the clothing. Mr REES asked it ihe withdrawal of such a force of police as was despatched to Derby did not incon- venience the c;»unty. The CHAIRMAN said they had got on very satis- factorily dudiig uhtiir absence. Of course, there was a little inconvenience attached to them at the de- parture of so great a portion of the force, but other counties were inconvenienced when Montgomery had extra constables at the election petition, and it was a good thing for them to recoup themselves. AN IMPORTANT QUESTION. Mr THEODORE asked if the Chief Constable had power to engage a solicitor to appear in a case, lor instance, permitting drunkenness on licensed premises. The CHAIRMAN said the Chief Constable consulted him before doing so. They would recollect that when they had a professional man it caused a gre tt ex- pense, and he did not grant permission to engage counsel simply to have an argument in Court, only when it was necessary to have legal assistance. Mr THEODORE drew attention to a recent case in which a publican was summoned for permitting drunkenness on his licensed premises, The evidence of the constable seemed to be very clear, but the other side hud a solicitor, and the case was dismissed. It struck him that if they had had a solicitor they would have obtained a conviction. Mr REES agreed with Mr Theodore's remarks, and said the policeman had a very good case, and he was quite convinced that if a solicitor had been engaged the man would have been convicted. The CHAIRMAN said no app,ication was made to him for legotl assintauoe. D.C.C. CROWDEN said the Chief Constable thought if the evidence was laid clearly before the Bench he did not see any necessity to engage a solicitor. Mr R. E. JONUS said there was a difficulty which often arcse. The constable who proved the case often laid the information, and then if a sergeant or inspector intervened,, if there was a solicitor on the other side, he often objected. He suggested that the information should be laid in one name, that of the officer in charge of the Court, who could then cross examine, which duty was not able to be petformedby many constables owiug to their imperfect acquaint- ance with the English language. Mr THEODORE That is a point on which I agree. Thv, CHAIRMAN asked it' either Mr Rees or Mr Theodore wished to carry the matter further. Mr THEODOHK was remarking thut the Bench ought to give the police officers every consideration, when The CHAIRMAN said the committee were not sitting in judgment o:i the decision of the Bench, and the subject then dropped. A GOOD OFFICER. Inspector Lake, of Llanidlues, applied for an increase of salary, and giving as his reasons that the district now under his charge was a very extensive one, extending in each direction upwards of 20 miles, witnout railway communication, except one short distance of eight miles. There existed in Llanidloes a very lawless gaiis: of violent characters wbo required constant watching vigilance and determin- ation. He mentioned as an instance the case of Enoch George, a native of the town, buf who had resided in the colliery districts of South Wales, who was recently convicted of a violent assault upon him- self, itud for which he was sentenced to one month without the option of a fine. The CHAIRMAN said at the last meeting- of the committed an application was made by Iiispecto- Lake for increasing his salary £ 5, as since his removal frotn Wd-hpool to Llanidloes he lost £ 5 per year as Inspector of Lodgir.g-hou-e. In reply to the CHIII'-MM, D.C.C. CROWDEN said the Inspecror received £ 97 10j. and X5 for acting as Inspector of Explosives. The CHAIRMAN said he bad not long been promoted from Sergeant 10 Inspector. D C.C. CROWDEN said it was about two yeirs. Mr. LLOYD regretted that the committee at its last meeting did noj yield to the sipplication and increase the Inspector's salary by £ 5. He lost the £ 5 not through any fault of his own, but because he was removed from Welshpool to Llanidloes by the Clii, f- Co;istable. Anyone who knew anything al'nut the C unty Police was aware that Inspector Lafce was a superi .r officer and a very gODd man indeed. That. was genera ly admitted whereever he had been shationed, and ho had been in the for^e since 1879. He was c-ip-tble of fillintr a better position than the one be At present occupied. Ho did not think there was any ddvan'ag-) when they hftd a. g-ood man to refuse an application of tiits soro, unless it w,is ce trly proved shat ha was paid for as much a he did. Ho proposed that his salary be inoccased from £ 97 10s. to £ 105. Mr. R. MOKGAN said that was more than he applied for. Mr LLOTD replied that when the letter was c~n- sidtsred at th>. last meeting, it WAS refused V>Q the ground that if Inspect- r Lake wanten mor" money he was to make an application. He would jU, t SKV that, the cou ity fr rce was about one of the loweso paid of a v county. D.C.C. CROWDEN said that after Inspector L&e had served three years as an inspector, he would be entitled to au increase. Mr JENKINS seconded, on the double ground that Llanidloes division was a large area for the police to \do their duty, and that there was a periodical infkix j of men from Glamorganshire, men who were 3.111 connected with the town. They came there to spend their holidays in the summer, and it was a difficult task for the police co control them, and keep down the riots created by them. That entailed great danger and trouble upon the police officers, and Inspector Lake was certainly one of the best officers that was ever at Llanidloes. His judgment, his courage, when necessary, and the way in which he had managed these people he had referred to bad elicited the warm enconiums of all people of property and station living in the neighbourhood. He was entitled to every consideration at their hands, and he should have granted to him an increase. He would not stick at the proposal to increase his salary by X7 10s., but if the committee desired, let it be £ d. That would place him on an equality with what he received at Welshpool, a much quieter and better regulated district for the police officers. Mr THEODORE opposed the motion. No doubt Inspector Lake was a first-rate officer, but there were many other officers who could put forward the same claim. Looking at the depression of the farming community of Montgomeryshire, he did not think it was a time to increase salaries, and the application appeared to him to be untimely. Captain HAYHURST-FRANCE reminded Mr Theo- dore there were other people in the county who pair. rates as well as farmers. In this case he considered Inspector Lake had a special claim upon them. Mr R. MORGAN asked if it c inld be proved that the Inspector's duties were greater that when be was at Welshpool. If they were greater the application was not unreasonable. D.C.C. CROWDEN said if the duties were greater he had an additional man than ever before. Mr MORGAN Am I to infer they are not greater ? D.C.C. CROWDEN He has two men now instead of one. Mr THEODORE mentioned that it was the borough of Welshpool who paid the .£5, and not the county. It was ultimately agreed that the salary should be increased X5 per year. SURVEYOR'S REPORT. Mr G. A. Hutchins, county surveyor, submitted a report, shewing the repairs and alterations done at the various police stations in the county, which was adopted by the committee. SUB-COMMITTEBS. The agenda stated that the Chairman would move a rule with regard to the convening of meetings of Sub-committees. Mr JENKINS asked leave to say a few words on the general question. The members of the Council from Machynlleth or Llandidloes, or south of Newtown had to wait about two hours at Newtown before they could commence their business. It was very incon- venient to the members of the upper county. They arrived at 10-25, and he should be obliged if they could give them employment until the 12-15 train came in. The CHAIRMAN We cannot snit all parties. Mr JENKINS remarked that the gentleman from the north of the county could get to Newtown about the same time as the members from the south, if they would only get up a little earlier, but still if they had something to do during the interval of waiting, it would be better than walking about sight-seeing and spending their money on worthless objects (laughter). Mr HUMPHREYS-OWEN said he quite appreciated the question raised by Mr Jenkins, but if the meet- ings were early the representatives from Llanfyllin would have to get up at such a very early hour. Mr R. E. JONES said if the meetings of the Council were held earlier it would only mean the postponing of the sight-seeing from the morning till the after- noon (loud laughter). It was then agreed to adopt a resolution to the effect that the Clerk, in conjunction with the mover of any motion for a sub-committee, agree upon the time and place of meeting of any sub-committee referring to the clerical work of the Joint Committee, but in all cases of sub-committees relating to the county buildir gs or works, the Connty Surveycr, in conjunction with the mover of a resolution for a sub- committee, should agree in convening the meeting. LESS RED-TAPEISM. The CHAIRMAN read a circular from the Home Secretary with regard to certain arrangements made with a view to expedite the consideration of pi >ns of new police buildings or alterations submitted for sanction. The Home Secretary referred the plans to the Surveyor-General of Prisons, and he had author- ised him to correspond directly with the Standing Joint Committees, and if they had any future plans -to submit he desired the Committee to send them to the Surveyor-General. TIMBER TRAFFIC. Mr PERROTT asked if the police could not do something to regulate the timber traffic between Meifod and Llaneaintffraid. The road was dangerous? and in some places steep, and when there were four or five four-horsed timber carriages in procession they could understand it was dangerous to travellers when it was getting dark. The CLERK said the Committee had no power to interfere without they broke the Highway Act. The Committee then rose.

NEWTOWN NATIONAL SCHOOLS, DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES BY LADY PRYCE.JONES. On Friday evening at the National Schools a large number of scholars, accompanied by their parents, assembled on the cocagion of the distribution of prizes. The Rev E. A. Fishbourne took the chair, and there were also present, Lady Piyce-Jones, Miss Pryce-Jones, Mrs Fishbonrne, Mr and Mrs Bennett Rowlands, Misses Jones (The Bank;, Miss Meddins, Mrs Bridgeman, Mrs Macrone, etc. The Rev E. A. Fishbourne briefly opened the pro- ceedings, and the children went through a series of musical arms, well and etticiently performed. This was followed by the under.mentioned programme :— song, The Cooper," Infants recitation, Father's Return," R. Wallingford piano solo, F. Smith: song,. "Bells-of Aberdovey," Children; recitation, Waterloo," C. Griffiths; song, "Ash Grove," Children; recitation, ''Hohenlinden," N. Barratt; song, Let the hills resound," Children. The RECTOR. then presented the girls with cer- tificates for religijus knowledge, and afterwards awarded Griffiths' charity to the boys. Before doingsohessid that people often asked why there; were two schools in Newtown—a Board School and a National School. He replied that Church people I considered religious teaching of the utmost import- ance, and they were, in order to have their children instructed in Church religious teaching, ready to undergo any sacrifice. It was absolutely important to give children a good secular education, the best that could be had, in order to fit them out for this world, but they had a higher and more important duty to perform; that while instructing them iu secular subjects, the children should also be taught things concerning the next world. It was asked whether this religious instructions could not be afforded through the mediums of the Sunday Schools or by the parents at home. He contended that while the Sunday Schools did much good, and the parents might do a great deal at home, yet it was utterly impossible that on one day in a week for an hour or two for children to receive their whole religions training. They should unite religious training and education. Besides what about those children who never went to Sunday School, and whose parents cared nsthing about religion. Surely it was only right to give instruction to them. They there- fore considered that no sacrifice was thrown away in order to support the schools where this religious instruction was given. Thus they had to pay for two sets of schools, to put their hands in their pockets for Board Schools, and keep their own school going. Churchmen demanded that their children should have given them Church teaching, but any Noncon- formist parents who objected to that religious instruction had the right to claim exemption for their children. They forced their religion on no one. Mr Griffiths, some time ago, became impressed with the importance of religious education, and left a considerable sum of money, seme of which went towards giving a night's lodging to travelling Welsh- men and Welshwomen, and the rest to the boys who attended Newtown National School. The speaker then explained the charity, and said that not only could they award .£3 to a boy for not exceeding three years, but, bye-and-bye when the Intermediate Schools were established, and one erected at New- town, they could give out of the charity a scholar- ship of.96 for three years. He mentioned that as an encouragement to parents to consider whether i' was not worth while to send their children to school regularly. It was for the boy's own benefit, and they might, if clever, obtain a scholarship. If they kept their boys at home once a week, it amounted in the year to six week's attendance. He concluded by heartily congratulating the school upon the manner in which it was managed, and upon the improvement in the tone and manner of the scholars, which was very encouraging to the teachers, and pleasant to all (cheers). The RECTOR then called upon Lady Pryce-Jones to distribute the prizes to the successful children. He was very glad to see her Ladyship amongst them that evening, and it added further testimony to the very great interest which she took in all matters concerning- the town. Lady Pryce-Jones having gracefully performed this function, Mr .BISHBOURNB explained that the prizes offered for competition for next year would be:-Standard VI, two prizes at .£3, two at X2 10s, one at X2, and one at XI; Standard V., two prizes at X2, one at £ 1 10s, and two at XI Standard IV., four prizes at Xi, and two 108. He begged to propose a hearty vote of thanks to Lady Pryce-Jone3 for spending the even- ing amongst them, and in giving away the prizes. Mr BENNETT ROWLANDS seconded, and the vote was carried with loud cheers. Lady PRYCE-JONES, in reply, said I am delighted to be here. It is a great pleasure to me, but a greater pleasure to see the school in such a flourishing and healthy condition. I am particularly pleased to see so many of the mothers present, because the regular attendance of the children at school rests so much upon yon. I hope you will always try to send them punctually and regularly, in order that they may have a fair chance and opportunity of competing for the prizes which the Rector has announced, and whose excellent advice I hope you will endeavour to carry it out. I may again say I am pleased to be here, and I thank you very mush for your cordial vote of thanks (loud cheers). Cheers were also given for the Rector, Mr Wall (head master), and staff of teachers. The following were prize winners :—Stand- ard VI. Martin Pilot, £ 3. Standard V.: Edwd. Price, £ 3; George Horton, £ 3 John L. Roberts, X2 10s Wm. H. Parker, X2 10s John Blayney, X2. Standard IV. George Jones, £ 2: Wm. Pagh, .£1 lOa. Standard III. (in clothing) Martin Williams, 10s; Maurice Jones, 10s Thomas Jones, 7s 6d. Standard II. Thomas Evans, 7s 6d; Edward Blayney, 7s 6d; John Roberts, 6s 6d; Ernest Powell, 5s. Standard 1.: Richard Williams, 5s Bertie Hamer, 3a; Thomas Powell, 3s. The following girls gained attendance prizes:— Edith Morris, Annora Pilot, Sarah J. Jones, Alma Lewis, Sally Powell, Florence Rees, Isabel Worrall, Emily Pugh, Elizabeth Jones, Lena Hitehon, Daisy Wallingford, Elizabeth Evans, Jersnie Morgans, Harriet Jones, Emily Wallingford. Nellie Breez-, Georgie Pilot, May Hinchcliffe, Florence Jones, Fanny Hooper, Nellie Jones.—Infants W. Delves, C. Parry, Arthur Jarman, James Blayney, Ella Maud Powell, Margaret Roberts, Rose Wallingford, Hilda Powell, Percy Hamer, Silvia Jones, Elizabeth Williams, Agnes Williams, Fred Roberts, Edgar Powell, William Herbert Hinchcliffe, Fred Lewis, and Gertrude Jones.

Stf) BURNING FATALITY AT ABERMULE- On Monday last a sad burning fatality occurre r, to a little child, four years OJd, named Marrhfl Watkins, of Castle Daniel, Llanmerewig. It appei r that the mother of the child had gone out, and ler* her with t.vo other children about the house. Wnen she returned she found that the girl Martha had bet-i seriously burned, and put to bed. The child was quite conscious up to the time of her death, and the only explanation as to how F-lie got burned was t It- t she said her dress and petticoats got on fire, which points clearly that she had been standing near th. fire, or fnllen against the fi-e, to have got thfm in flimes. She died on Tuesday, and an inqnest was held on Thursday at the Aberaiuie Ina by District Coroner Mr R. Williams and a jury of waom Mr John Evans was foreman. The first witness called was the mother of the deceased, who said that on Monday she went to Abermule to fetch some groceries, about 10 o'clock. She left her son John (ayed six), the deceased, and the baby (aged 18 months) in the house. There was nobody in the house to look after the children. Witness had been in the habit of leaving t h- children in the house when she had occasion to ^o to Aber- mule. About 10 30 witness mez Mrs Davies, the Bryn, in the Dingle, and she told her that one of the children had been burned. When she arrived home she found the child Martha in bed. She was bad'y burned about the stomach and arms. Wituess dressed the wnuuds with linseed ( oil, and lime water, and sent for Dr. Morgan, Mont- gomery who came in about an hour and a half. Her daughter diel about one o'c ock oa Tuesday. She did not seem to suffer much pain. Sbe questioned ber boy as how the acjident aappenel, but he could not tell her as he was out cutting sticks at the time. Deceased could speak, and said that she had burned her dress and petticoats but did not say how it happened. John Davids, farmer, Bryn, said that about 10 o'clock on Monday he beard some children scream- ing. He went in the direction that the sound seemed to come from and found the little girl all in a blaze, j Outside the door was ber bro her try i: g t,) put out the flames. Witness got the chiids ciotries off and put her iu bed. He went home and s 'nt, t is wife to look after the deceased, as he could not find the mother. Dr. Morgan, Montgomery, said that he was telegraphed for on Monday, a, d a', went to Castle Daniel. He found the deceased suffering from severe burns over the bowels and both arms. She was suffering from shock and never recovered In his opinion death was due to shoes resulting from the burns. The Coroner, having summed up the jury, i eturned a verdict that deceased Died; from shock, accidentally sustained by buras."

EXCURSIONISTS AND THEIR RIGHTS. On Tuesday, at tho County Court, before H8 Honour Judge Wynne Ffoulkes, Thomas Williams, the principal of the Hooton Lawn School, sued the Great Western Railway Company for .£5 damages. Mr Twigge Ellis, Baneor, appeared fur the plaintiff. It appeared that on Wednesday, August 2na. defen- dant took advantage of an excursion traia to atteLfl the Pontypridd Eisteddfod. The tr<Ín was adver- tised to start from the Birkenhead station, aLd the handbill showed that passengers from stations be- tween Birkenhead and Chest-r couid join the train by taking tickets as from Birkenhend and travelling to Chester by the preceding stopping train. Tne plaintiff got a Birkenhead ticket and starting ir-m Hooton joined the Birkenhead train at Chester. Oo the return journey the train reached Chester at 12-3 > next morning, and the plaintiff toll an official be wished to get out at Hooi on. He was idform, cl that the train did not stoy. but they would top it if pos- sible. When the train was in motion an r fficial called out, t' Next stop, Rock Ferry." Plaintiff IV-S taken to Rock Ferry, and arrived there f-ometfcing aftetf one o clo^k. He couid rot find iodgincsior ihe nighi> at a hotel, nor could get a cab. After getting lost wandering about the streets, he at last found the way home, and walking the wholo way got safely back at 4 30 a.m. The contention was that the l-dilwav company's handbill implied that all passengers from intermediate stations could be put down at those on the return journey.-Hi.-i Honour, without calling on the defendants, said the plaintiff must be confined t) his contract, and the, e was nothing in that to say where he should be put down, except at Chester, Rock Ferry, and Birkenhead.—Plaintiff was there. fore non-suited, and had to pay the costs of the action-

LLANFYLLIN. BOARD OF GUAKDIANS, THURSDAY.—Present Messrs. Wm. Roberts tin the chair. C. R. Jones and J. Jones (ex-officio), J. Ryle, R. Richarde, T. Roberts, J. Hughes, J. T. Williams, J. Ashford, E. Humphreys, C. Jones and J. M. Jones, with Mr. W. A. Pughe, clerk. The Master reported that they had again been in trouble with the water supply, but that the leakage had been found and put right. A report was read from Mr. A. C. Humphreys-Owen stating that he had visited the Workhouse in order te aid himself in getting information in reference to the Aged Poor Commission, and he wished to thank the Master for his courtesy. Mr. F. D. Ward's estimate for drawing up plans and specifications for the proposed alterations at the Workhouse was accepted. Several circulars from various Unions bearing on the Local Government Bill 1893 were read and left on the table. C.E.T.S.—The first meeting of the season in con- nection with the C.E.T.S. took place in the National Schools. There was a good attendance and Maggie Junes, Miriam Bromley. Lizzie Jones, Polly Williams, Eva Edwards, M. E. Watkins, Gladys Holmes-Evans, Lizzie Ellis, R. H. Ellis, M. A. Evans, Polly Hughes, and Mary Williams took part in the entertainment. Miss Amy E. Davies Jones presided at the harmonium, and the Rev. C. F. Roberts took the chair. TEMPERANCK.—A temperance meeting was held in the Wesleyan chapel on Sunday evening when a suit- able address was delivered by, the Rev. Joseph Owen, who also presided. The meeting was addressed by Mr. Griffiths, of Tyntwll and the Rev. J. Evans, of Birmingham. WESLEVAN CHAPEL.—A conventional meeting' was held on Friday, when there was a good attend. lance. The Rev Joseoh 0#en presided. Amongst those who addressed the meeting were Messrs Robert Jones, London House; David Lloyd and R. Roberts, Rhosfawr. In the afternoon tea was provided, the following ladies kindly presiding at the tables, viz. Mrs Pierce, Mrs Joseph Owen. Mrs Jones, Post Offije; and Mi*s Edwards. Mr Thomas, Jones Po ft Office, superintended the whole .ef the arrangements. SMOKING CONCERT.—A most successful smoking concert was held in connection with the Llanfyllin District Conservative Club on Friday evening week. Mr R. Perry presided over the meeting, and Mr N. B. Edwards performed the duties of accompanist in his usual efficient manner. The following contributed to the enjoyment of the proceedings Messrs James Lee. David Jones (Penybryn). John Peel, C. Lee, R. G. Perry, Watkin Lloyd, A. Oldroyd, J. Rees Davies, Wm. Evans, Wm. Lloyd, Fred. Lloyd, Jos. Foulkes, Edward Rogers, T. Jones, and D. C. Jones (Brook- side). Votes of thanks to the Chairman and accom- panist having been passed, the proceedings were brouerht to a close with the singing of the National Anthem. RURAL DEANERY UNION.—On Thursday the members of the committee of this Union met ? Llanfyllin. to discuss the vrogramme for the fesc: va»t to be held in June, 189t.. The Rev R. Trevor Owen presided, and there were present—Tbe Revs D. Jones, Llanrhaiadr J. Williams, L'antvvddy.r J. W. Thomas, Bwlchvcibau; J. Allen Jones Llwy- diarth and C. F. Roberts, secretary. Tho arrange- ments will be altered. and instead of the festival consisting of two services there will be an English service of the usual festival type in the afternoon, but the evening will be occupied by Welsh singing and by a meeting of a aomoetitive character. DOLFOR. One of the best entertainments ever given here took place cn Wednesday 22nd inst., the object being to raise funds to erect a new cloak-room for the girls' department of the school, in accordance witlcthe order of H.M's. chief Inspector of schools,. W. Williams, Esq. Wm. Francis, Esq., Belle Y-ue, kindly brought up bis exaellent concert company, and gave a capital selection of vocal and instrumental music, which was thoroughly appreciated, the encores being numerous and enthusiastic. Most of the per- formers were old favourites, who always have, and always deserve the heartiest of welcomes. The chairman was C. Kershaw, Esq., who was most flatteringly received, as was also Mrs Kershaw who kindly shared the arduous duties of accompanist with Mrs Tanner-Francis. The long programme was most efficiently rendered. The principal iterrs being 'Shipmates,' by Mr G. G. Trow, in which this old favourite basso was heard to advantage: 'Tell me gentle stranger,' duet, Miss Barratt and Mr Francis encored quartette, Home, sweet home,' scored song, My heart and thine,' Mi-s M. Evans, encored: piano solo, Mra Kershaw; trio, 'My iady, the Countess,' encored, Miss Pritchard's contralto voice being heard to perfection Oh, that we two were maying,' Mrs Tanner-Francis ana Mr Trow. This was sung in good style. Soner, Barney O'Hea,* Miss Barratt, encored song, Fiddle and I,' Mrs Tanner-Francis, with violin obligato by Mr Jones, encored; duet, I'd rather Dot. Miss Barratt and Mr Francis, encored duet, Buy a broom,' Misa Evans and Miss Birntt. encored; comic songs, 'You do, you know you do,' ittid 'Ju-jrh,' Mr EvAn Jones, encored. At the close hearty votes of thanks and cheers were given to the chairman and perfonsuBiS for their gratuitous services for such a charitable work. The managers owe a double amount of gratitude, this, being the second soneert that a.8 been given gratis by Newtown friends for soncol funds. BKRRIEW. PRESBYTERIAN CHAPEL.—On Thursday last a meeting of t-ie Band ft Hope waa held at the above UIMCI. Mr John Thomas, of the Pandy, occupied tne chair. The Chairmin, in his >emarke, said that he was vry pleaded t:' occupy the chair at a Buid of Hope. For inanv years h, had tried; noderate drick- i-g, but noty for son- time he had been a total ab. -titiuer, and he f-un j he latter bet e in every re- spect. He found < o d.Si ju'ity in put ";g- up bin horse -it t public hor.Be. H" did not suffer in point of hea-th, nor was toe less able 10 ca-r, on his farm •vork. The present, state of the Church and society ea-ljd upon all i people to become total ab. t).inerq. Moderate Irinkers wre always doub-ful ebarac, ers. The projratnm^ was varied and interest- ing, performed by Missus Sally an i Mary Davies, Mi.-s< s F.va,s. Crow Hall, Misses Eva. s, The Be!an, Misses Annie J Gittins. Lilly M<itthe«g, and Maggie Rowlands.— Tne H-v. John Davies also aadie.-sed the meeting, a.nd .Üd that the 8to-y of drunkenness from the ti.iie of Noah until the present day was 8r very sad one. Noah when drunk placed himself in a position to be mocked by his son. That is he case to-day; the drunkard is ridiculed by his own obildien. Mr Davies. gave the tradition relative to Noah's vineyard He said that many people came to see the first planted vineyard, and among them the devil, with four animals—the lamb, lion, monkey, pig—and sacrificed them to the vine, hence the differ rent effects of wine upon man. It first quietens him like the lamb, then rouses him like the lion, after- wards mischievous like the monkey, atid, lastly, he wallows in tne mire like the sow. The object of the Band of Hope is to teach the children to avoid all this. The motto of the Band of Hope is Avoid it, pass riot by it, turn from it and pass away." Miss Jenny S'ephcns accompanied on the barmoniuw. Votes of thanks to the chairman brought the meet jug to a close. LLAWRYGLYN. LITERARY S CIETY.—A neeting d the L-t^rary Society w&R bel! on Wednesday evening l*-t,k. the Old Calvinistio Methodist Cbapul, when a ducate took place on the subject Where is it m^ot advan- tageous to live in the town or the cour. ry?" The debate was introduced by the reading of two par era on the ubjoet by Messrs R. Jonea. Boifanawydd (far the town), and Mr Thomas Morgan, Alltgejb. (for the country). A lively di^enssien fblt<<wed in which the following members tonk part, nwHely. Mea-r-i Edward Ashton, Maesyblawd, Mr W. J. es, I Graiizweia, Jno. Jones, Llechwedd, (f"l" t' toN n), Messrs R, Jrnes, Tyriyrwtra,John fvapp,Fr-,ir-fawr j J. Evann, Waingittin (for the oountry). Vpon a division it was fouud that 3ri vqtqd to: tU- town, 1W4 40 for the country.