The Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Times

Friendly Societies, Sir,—I read with much appreciation the letter written by Mr J. E. Tomley on the above subject, showing as it does the extent to which the masses have combined for mutual self-help. But I am not wholly satisfied with the sum total of the benefits which these societies yield. The Free Gift Society or the Tontine comes nearer my con- ception of what friendly societies should be. Into these societies, I understand, members pay a certain sum, which at the end of every year they will realise, minus the part of it which has been devoted to the relief of sickness, etc. On the other hand what a member subscribes to the Oddfellows, the Druids, and the Bechabites is unredeemable even should he wish to with- t draw from the brotherhood. True, he obtains an allowance in the case of sickness, and also medical attendance, but if, happily, he enjoys good health he derives no benefit from continuous payments. In short, what he pays in is irrecoverable. He may look forward to a pension in old age, but is it equivalent to the interest on his total payments ? Little wonder such societies can boast of immense funds, since they hoard up the members con- tributions. I agree that in the case of a yearly distribution to members like the Free Gift Society, they could not offer the present relief pay, but if members had redeemed to them a goodly part of what they subscribed, it would, I imagine, more than counter-balance that diminu- tion. These are some thoughts that have oc- curred to me, and if Mr Tomley thinks them erroneous, I should be glad to learn of him. All honour to him for the great service he has rendered to the cause of friendly societies in our county.—Yours truly, INQUIRER. Weighpool, Nov. 1st, 1907. X

THE PLASDINAM GIFT ( TO THE ABERYSTWYTH COLLEGE. The Chancellor of the Exchequer on Welshmen and Education. On Friday Mr Asquith, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, opened the Edward Davies Chemical Laboratories recently erected and equipped as a department of the University College of Wales at Aberystwyth. It was in 1903 that Mrs Edward Davies, the Misses Davies, and Mr David Davies, M.P., of Llandinam, jointly pro- mised to contribute J62G,000 toward the project in memory of the late Mr Edward Davies, formerly one of the college treasurers. The Council secured a suitable site on an eminence commanding the town known as the Buarth Mawr, and a substantial structure of simple Georgian style has been completed. The day was made an occasion of much local rejoicing. A procession left the college shortly before noon for the new laboratories, abeut half-a-mile distant. When the procession arrived at the new build- ing Mrs Davies personally presented Lord Rendel, the President of the college, with the deed of gift, and the architect, Mr A. W. S. Cross, handed a key to Mr Asquith, who declared the labora- tories open. OLD FAITHS SHATTERED: NEW FAITHS BUILT UP. Luncheon was subsequently served in the new Market Hall. Lord Rendel gave the health of Mr Asquith, whom he described as a statesman, a scholar, and a tried friend of Wales. Mr Asquith, in response, said that lest he should be sailing under false colours, he wished it to be clearly understood that he did not come there in the character of the Chancellor of the Exchequer (laughter). Before leaving for Wales he took the precaution of leaving the key of the Treasury behind him, under the safe and vigilant guardianship of the watchdogs of Whitehall (laughter). Even if he were tempted to indulge in a momentary fit of financial laxity, he had upon him the austere and withering eye of his friend and colleague, Mr Herbert Lewis, who was present in the character of a Lord of the Treasury-a sort of itinerant financial detective —(laughter)—whose main duty was to see that an impulsive Chancellor of the Exchequer, under the seductive influe ) of Welsh hospitality, was not guilty of betraj the sacred interests of the British taxpayer (m e laughter). He confessed for himself that he was not very much at home in laboratories or places where strange things were done. Those who listened the previous night to the admirable and instruc- tive address by Sir A. Rucker knew that a laboratory was a piace where old faiths were shattered and new faiths were built up. They were told that the atomic theory was still secure (laughter). He confessed he was glad, and relieved to hear that buch was the case, because in these matters he was something of a Con- servative—(laughter)—a Conservative because he did not wish in the middle, or, perhaps, on the verge, of old age to have to unlearn lessons hardly acquired (renewed laughter). But although Professor Rucker had comforted him in a particular point he left most of them with a vague sense of apprehension to the science of the future-so full of possibilities and destructive energy-and particularly of radium which was going to be a veritable bull in the crockery shop of scientific theory (laughter). He concluded by giving the toast of "The Donors." Mr David Davies, M.P., in acknowledging the vote, said the first reason which prompted them to make the gift was that they wanted it to be a memorial to his late father, who took a keen interest in the development of their college, and especially in the progress of scientific investiga- tion. He realised the relation which existed between science and industry. Mr Davies went on to say that they were endeavouring to establish a chair of Colonial History at the College, which, he thought, would become a success in the no distant future. Colonial history, as recently taught at Oxford, was an attempt to deal scientifically with the greatest problem of the age, tke consolidation and unifica- tion of their great Empire, and he thought Wales could play an important part in this great move- ment. "SHAKE THE SUPERFLUX." The celebration included a crowded public meeting in the Coliseum, over which Lord Rendel presided, and spoke of the national ideals on religion, temperance reform, and a complete system of national education. Mr Asquith, who was given an enthusiastic reception by the students, said that without mak- ing invidious comparisons, he knew none amongst the admirable educational institutions of Wales which made a stronger appeal to the outsider than did the University College, Aberystwyth. There were very few other institutions, either in England or in Wales, of which it could be said that it was brought into being, and that for many years it was kept in being, by the pence of the Welsh people (cheers). There were few more interesting or encouraging chapters in the history of democracy than that which recounted what in our time the Welsh people had done for education (cheers). He was told that in the course of thirty years something very near £ 120,000 had been subscribed for the purposes of that college, and the remarkable feature was that it had been sub- scribed by 100,000 separate donors. The figures, no doubt, were equally striking at Bangor and Cardiff. The University system in Wales had been undertaken by the people for the people (cheers). The Welsh people, without distinction of locality or of class, had shown that they really cared for education. It was possible that in Wales they had attained to a realisation more than in any other part of the kingdom of that which ought to be our educational ideal (cheers). The splendid educational superstructive raised in the Principality was catholic in character. It made no discrimination in regard to religion or race. Everybody without question, without test of any sort or kind, whatever their origin, their opinions, their religious beliefs—everybody had an equal chance in all these great collegiate institutions (cheers). In conclusion he said that there could not be a more opportune moment for the reappearance on the public stage of the figure of the "pious founder" (laughter and cheers). There was not only far more wealth, but there were far more rich men in Great Britain to-day than at any previous time in her history. If they bad only eyes to see the signs of our own times and to see the future which these signs portend these rich men would find they could not do better than, in Shakes- peare's language, Shape the superflux" to the best forms of educational work (Cheers).

MANAFON. PARISH COUNCIL.—A meeting of the Parish Council was held on Thursday evening, when all the members were present, Mr J. Andrew pre- siding. The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed. A circular was read from the County Council dealing with the Small Hold- ings and Allotments Act, 1907. It was unani- mously agreed that a Parish Meeting be called, when persons desirous of having land for Small Holdings could make their applications.

KERRY. FLOOD.—The train service between Kerry and Abermule was suspended on Wednesday owing to the line being flooded, a considerable portion of the track being washed away. The service was, however, resumed on Thursday. Great damage was done by the floods to the roadway near Lower Cefnperfa, and also to the road near Pentre and Cilthrew. CONCERT.—A large audience assembled in the Reading Room on Thursday evening, when an excellent programme of music was given. The chair was occupied by Mr William Alderson. The proceeds of the concert will be added to the funds of the Baptist Sunday School and Choir. The vocalists, who kindly assisted, were the Misses Jones, Rockley, Misses Alderson, Miss Lucy Edwards, Messrs Stuart Humphreys, W. Morgan, Benjamin Price, David Jones, T. Howells, John Howells. Miss Bebb ably accompanied on the pianoforte. The choir was afterwards entertained to supper by Miss Andrew.

THE FLOODS.—Photographic Post Cards (two kinds) of the destructive floods may be obtained of the booksellers.

LLANIDLOES. C.E.T.S.—At a meeting of the above on Monday last, the Curate, Rev. T. P. Rees, delivered a lantern lecture on a tour through North Wales. LECTURE.—A lecture by Treborfab, Festiniog, on Yr hynod John Elias, 0 Fon," was delivered in the China-street Schoolroom on Wednesday evening last. Dr. Walter Davies presided. There was a large audience, who much appreciated the lecture. Votes of thanks were accorded the lecturer and chairman at the close of the meeting. MUNICIPAL.—Of the three new members elected to fill the vacant seats on the Town Council it fell to the lot of one of them to take the remaining year of the late Mr Edmund Hamer's unexpired term of office. By arrangement, Mr Anthony Higgs acts for the year in question, and Messrs John Morris and David Owen will enjoy the full term of three years. Y.P.G.—A meeting of the above was held on Wednesday evening last, when an interesting miscellaneous programme was provided by the following: Misses Polly Edwards, M. A. Lloyd, M. A. Evans, Lena Owen, H. Owen, Messrs T. Benbow, R. Benbow, Evan Rees, J. Ellis, T. Morgan, and D. E. Thomas. The news of the week was given by Mr R. Benbow. Mr J. T. Davies presided. ELECTION.—The following were elected to fill the various offices in the Clywedog Lodge of Good Templars on Tuesday evening last: C.T., Bro. W. H. Baxter; V.T, Sis. Lily Rees; Sec., Bro. D. E. Thomas; Treas., Bro. J. Davies; F.S, Sis. Bertha Morgan; Chap., Sis. Mrs Baxter; Mar., Bro.'C. Jones; Guard, Bio. Bert Lloyd Sent., Bro. T. R. Hughes; A.S., Sis. Edie Davies; D.M., Sis. M. A. Lloyd; G.C.T., Bro. J. H. Manuel. The officers were installed by the Lodge Deputy, Bro. Chas. Benbow. ENTERTAINMENT. — The first of a series of miscellaneous entertainments which it is intended to hold in connection with the Baptist Chapel during the winter months, was held in the Baptist Schoolroom on Wednesday evening last. Despite the rough weather the schoolroom was almost filled by an appreciative though damp audience. Mr C. E. Pryce occupied the chair in the absence of Mr Edward Hamer, who was unable to attend. The chapel choir, assisted by Misses Maggie Breese, M. J. Hughes, S. E. Evans, and Messrs Idris Owen, J. Chapman, and J. Lloyd, delighted the audience with a lengthy programme of an ex- cellent character. Mr David Davies wielded the baton, while Miss L. A. Jones, chapel organist, fulfilled the duties of accompanist. STOCK SALES.—Messrs Cooke Bros. conducted their usual monthly sale of fat and store cattle, and sheep and pigs at Llanidloes on Saturday week. There was an exceptionally large company of buyers present, and the prices realised were considered to be in excess of those obtained in the fair. Cows and calves realised from.211 5s to .£17 5s. Barren cows from £ 11 12s to X13 15s. Bullocks from .f!,7 10s to J213. The largest vendors were Messrs N. Bennett Owen, J.P., J. R. Pryse, Pantdrain, Jones, Pentre, Jenkins, Cwmfron, Jerman, Bedw, Price, Birchen House, Morgan, Bryndu, Lloyd, Brynpostig, Lloyd, Gorn, and Evans, Gwerneryn. The principal buyers were Messrs Jebb, Shrewsbury, Bromley, Wellington, Thomas, Shrewsbury, and a number of local farmers. The sale was considered to have been one of the most successful that have been con- ducted in Llanidloes, both as regards numbers sold and prices realised. MID-WALES HORSE SALE.—On Monday last Messrs Cooke Bros., conducted their quarterly prize sale of horses at Llanidloes, when upwards of 130 horses wire submitted for sale. Although the Auctioneers had made a new departure in holding this sale on a Monday instead of on the fair day, there was a very large and representative gathering of buyers present, which fully justified the change of day. The Auctioneer, Mr A. S. Cooke, in his opening remarks drew the attention of buyers to the splendid lot of cart horses, hackneys, cobs and ponies, also the exceptionally grand lot of shire, hack and pony foals. The horses, he said, all came from the stock of this justly celebrated breeding district, and were well- bred, possesing power, size, substance and action. The sale commenced with the shire colts and fillies, and met with spirited competition. prices ruling from 17i guineas to 24t guineas. Carters realised from 15 guineas to 46 guineas, cobs from 10 i guineas to 27 guineas, ponies from 7 guineas to 18 guineas, and hacks from 8 guineas to 29 guineas. The principal buyers were Messrs Owens, Swansea, Lloyd, Newtown, Edwards, Birmingham, Latham, Oswestry, Phillips, Llwyny- brain, Bennett, Cilhaul, Collman, Liverpool, Alderson, Kerry, Meredith, Llanidloes, Rees, Machynlleth, Owen, Llanidloes, Williams, Aber- hafesp, Price Bailey, Thomas, Birmingham, Ingram, Llanidloes, Richards, Liverpool, Williams, St. Harmons, Roberts, Newtown, and Peters, Liverpool. The Auctioneers offered several cash prizes for horses realising most under the hammer. The establishment of these sales have met a long felt want in the district, and the success which has attended them augurs well for the future. 11

Messrs. Wilson-Jones & Davis Sales. LLYSGWYN. At the Bear Hotel on Tuesday last, Messrs P. Wilson-Jones and Davis conducted a sale of free- hold property, known as Llysgwyn, situate about 1 £ miles from Newtown. Biddings commenced at £ 200, which rose quickly to XIOO, then by smaller bids .£475 was reached, at which figure it was withdrawn, Mr John Hughes, of Cemmaes, being the last bidder. It is just possible that the place will change hands shortly. DOLFOR INN. On Thursday last at the Dolfor Inn, Messrs P. Wilson-Jones and Davis conducted a most satis- factory sale of farming stock and household furniture. The implements were readily sold at fair prices. The cross-bred sheep made up to 45s, and ewe lambs 26s; barren cows up to 10 guineas and weanling calves to R5 10; a chestnut pony fell to the bid of Mr Lewis, Glasgoed, at 18gs. There was a brisk competition for the old oak. The bedroom furniture sold well. The sale was over by 4-30, and the auctioneers were compli- mented on their conduct of it. LLANBRYNMAIR STOCK SALES. Messrs P. Wilson-Jones and Davis held their usual monthly sale on Monday last, and were favoured with a good entry of stock. E we lambs in good demand, 18s to 27s; wether lambs were slightly down, but ewes and wethers better dis- posed of. Mr Jones (Brynllys) fat bullocks made to .£18, and Mr Jone3 (Clegweddwr) < £ 17; others up to £ 15 cows and calves to X14 17s 6d; store bullocks and heifers to iCIl. NEWTOWN STOCK SALES. On Monday and Tuesday last Messrs P. Wilson- Jones and Davis conducted their usual monthly sales. Mr Whittle, Tynycoed, 50 yearling wethers made 44s a piece; Mr Lloyd, Lledr, 25 yearling wethers 37s; many smaller consignments from 30s to 35s, Ewe lambs were also well sold, Mr Phillips, Carnedd, making 37s; Mr Morris', 31s Gd Mr James, 30s 6d; Mr Chandler, 29s. Mr Morris wether lambs made up to 40s; others ranging from 26s to 33s. On Tuesday there was the best entry of cattle seen in the Smithfield this year. The fat besst as in most markets had a dragging trade, but most were disposed of at highly satisfactory prices. The cows and calves readily sold up to X15 12s 6d. Mrs Lewis's bullocks made X13 5s a piece; Mr T. Vaughan Chapman's bullocks X12 each; Mr Parry's JEll 10s; Mr Corfield's, Belan, heifers £ 11 10s; Mr Evans's heifers Xll 5s; Mr Breese's .£11. A good attendance of buyers from Birming- ham, Wolverhampton, Wednesbury, Shrewsbury, Oswestry, and the usual local buyers. +

FoOTIBALL.-Nowtown North End were at home to Shrewsbury Rovers on Saturday in the Welsh Amateur Cup competition. There was a fairly good gate. The home team had the best of the play during the first half, but no goals had been scored at the interval. Upon resuming play North End attacked their opponents' goal with determination and after ten minutes they were rewarded, Norman Jones heading the ball into the net after the goal keeper had cleared a dangerous shot from under the bar. Shortly afterwards R. Hughes equalized, and getting a break-away three minutes later that player gave Shrewsbury the lead. Newtown were in no way dismayed, but continued to press and Norman Jones shortly equalized. Both teams now strove hard to obtain the winning goal, but their efforts were fruitless and the game resulted in a draw of two goals each. In the second half the visitors were some- what handicapped. Bowen sustained an injury to his leg and had to retire, so that Shrewsbury only played ten men.

WELSHPOOL. NOTE.—For Danish, Irish and Wiltshire Bacon, give W. J. Higgins a trial. Provision Merchant, Welshpool. [Advt WE are still leading the way for honest value in all kinds of General and Fancy Drapery.— BOWEN'S, Cash Drapers, Berriew-street. [Advt. HUMPHREY JONES AND SON, Ironmongers, are now offering some Bargains in Oil Lamps and Stable Lanterns. They also make a speciality of Lamp Repairs, Fitting lamps with new fontc,, and the latest Burners. It will pay you to give them a trial.-[ Advt.] THE proceeds of the entertainments held last week at the Church House amounted to about .£24. THE Old Testament Prophet, Balaam" was discussed at the Wesley Guild, on Wednesday, under the conductorship of Mr R. G. Bradley. A marriage has been arranged between Mr Thomas Simpson Jones, barrister-at-law, third son of the late Mr Morris Charles Jones, F.S.A., of Gungrog, Welshpool, and Miss Clara Mary Rose Davison, youngest daughter of Mr Joseph Davison, Tritlington Hall, Northumberland, and niece of Mrs Curling, Brookland, Welshpool. The wedding will take place in Guilsfield Church on Tuesday, November 13th. B.W.T.A.—A successful meeting of the local branch of the British Women's Temperance Asso- ciation was held on Tuesday evening under the presidency of Mrs Howlett. Reports of the meet- ings at Liverpool and Llanymynech were sub- mitted by Mrs Howell., Williams and Mrs Cook re- spectively. During the evening a varied pro- gramme was provided by Miss Hughes, Miss May Watkin, Mrs Gledhill, Mrs Hardcastle and the Misses Hughes. NARROW ESCAPE.—The danger of having only one waggoner to three horses, was exemplified in Severn-street on Saturday rmrning. A waggon drawn by throe horses was proce-ding in the direction of the railway station in charge of one man, when the leading horse suddenly jumped on to the footpath There were several people on the path, bit fortunately th"y managed to escape injury. Hid there been children about the results must have been more serious I.O.G.T.—The "Home of Welcome" Lodge of Good Templars, held its weekly meeting on Monday uuder the presidency of Mi N. D. Watkin, chief templar. The evening was devoted to a miscellaneous programme arranged by Miss Ethel Jones. Solos were sung by Miss A. Thomas, Miss Beattie Jones, Mr Chas. Thomas, Mr W. Davies recitations Mrs E. Jones, and Mr Penry Watkins; readings Mrs Watkin, and Mr R. Davies. The accompaniments were played by Misses Beattie and Ethel Jones. DEATH —The death has occurred at Gorleston, Sussex, of Sister Ellen Hill, at one time a familiar figure in Welshpool. Deceased was the daughter of the late Rev J. E. Hill, a former vicar of Welsh- pool, and early in life she became a Sister of pool, and early in life she became a Sister of Mercy. She lived with her brother-in-law and sister, Dr and Mrs Hawksworth, and was well- known among the poorer classes of Welshpool, for her charitable and kindly disposition. Sister Hill left the town sometime ago on a visit to Gorleston. Whilst there she caught a chill, which developoi iuto pneumouii, from which she died. The funeral took place at Goileston on Tuesday. UOLF CLUB.-Capt. Ottley presided at a meet- ing of the Golf Club Committee on Thursday, when it was decided that ihe annual subscrip- tion for gentlemen should be Xi Is Od aud 10s 6d for ladies, the entrance fee in each case to be 10s 6d It was also decided to issue family tickets. A committee was appointed to superin- tend the laying of the greens, and the making of necessary arrangements with the present tenant was also left to a committee.. It was announced that already 80 members had been enrolled, 18 of whom were ladies. The pros- pects of a successful golf club in Welshpool are indeed exceedingly bright. LIBERAL SOCIAL.-Under the auspices of the Welshpool Women's Liberal Association, an en- joyable social was held on Thursday at the New- street Schoolroom. Tea was partaken of by a large number, the following ladies presiding at the tables:—Mrs Davies, Bryneglwys, Mrs T. Davies, High-street, Mrs Cook, Mrs Joues, Broad- street, assisted by a bevy of fair waitresses. After tea a varied entertainment was held, and the Borough Member (Mr J. D. Rees) addressed his constituents upon the political questions of the day, reported elsewhere. Lady Joicey, the Hon. Mrs Rees, Miss Joicey and Mrs and the Misses Humphreys-Owen were amongst those present. A duet was given by Miss James, A.L.C.M. and Miss Elsie Jones, and solo3 by Miss Ethel Morgan, Llanidloes, and Mr W. Perry. In every respect the function was a great success, and speaks well for the promoters, the Women's Liberal Associa- tion. MUNICIPAL ELECTION.—This year the only municipal election contest in the county was at Welshpool, where Mr Edwin H. Jones, The Manor House, Pool Quay, Conservative, opposed the return of Councillor C. T. Pugh, Berriew-street, Welshpool, a Liberal, who has represented the ratepayers in the Buttington Ward for a consider- able time. There now appeared to be a strong feeling in favour of having a representative nearer at hand. The result of Friday's poll was awaited with keen interest, for it was generally anticipated that the fight would be a hard one. Both can- didates and their supporters worked assiduously throughout the day, and altogether about 275 electors polled. An excited crowd assembled out- side the Town Hall, and the following result declared at 8-40 p.m., caused a mild sensation in both the Tory and Liberal camps-Edwin H. Jones (C) 178 Charles T. Pugh (L) 97; majority 81.

MONTGOMERY. LICENSING. Mr E. T. Davies successfully applied to the Bench on Thursday for the transfer of the Gullet Inn license from himself to his son and daughter, George and Alice. THE MAYORALTY.—We understand that the Mayor (Alderman N. W. Fairies-Humphreys) has intimated to the Town Council his willingness to accept the mayoralty for another year. This will be Alderman Humphreys' tenth year of office as mayor of the county town, an unique record in the history of Montgomery.

NEWTOWN NURSING ASSOCIATION.—A tea and entertainment, organised by Mrs P. Wilson Jones, in aid of the District Nursing Association, were held at the Public Hall on Saturday. For some weeks past Mrs Wilson Jones has been working assiduously to assure the success of the function, and in her efforts she was ably assisted by Mrs R. S. Forrester and others. It was gratifying to see how amply the promoters were rewarded, for Saturday's proceedings were in every respect a great success. In the afternoon tea was provided, a large and representative gathering partaking of it. Lady Joicey, who, as President of the Nurs- ing Association, takes such a keen interest in its welfare was amongst those present. The tea- makers were Mrs Richard James, Mrs Richard Bennett, Mrs Richards, Mrs A. S. Cooke, Miss M. Jervis and numerous assistants, whilst Misses Catherine Wilson-Jones, Florence Watkin, K. Vaughan, Lily Jones, Emily Barratt, and Mary Bebb, attired in nurse's uniform, were the wait- resses. Numerous fancy and other articles were offered for sale, the stalls being in charge of Miss Price, Mrs F. Bennett Lloyd and Miss Olwen Hughes. Two competitions were also held and resulted as rouows: wuessing competition, miss Turner and Miss Elwell; smelling competition, Miss Cissie Edwards, Miss F. Watkin, and Miss K. Vaughan. The customary bazaar characters and amusements too, were much in evidence. An en- tertainment was held in the evening, when the hall was well filled. The miscellaneous pro- gramme afforded much enjoyment, and the various items heartily applauded. Selections were played by the Newtown Silver Band (conducted by Mr T. Reynolds); glees, Newtown male voice party (conducted by Mr G. M. Evans); pianoforte solos, Miss Downing and Master Percy Watchorn; quartette, Jack and Jill,' four County School boys; readings, Mr R. S. Forrester and Mr Mor- row song, Ten little nigger boys,' County School girls; mandoline solo, Mra Morrow; National songs, English, Scotch, Irish, and Welsh, Misses Lily Jones, Emily Barratt, Mrs Morrow, and Miss Pryce. The proceeds of the tea and entertainment, etc., will amount to a considerable sum, and the Nursing Association feel much indebted to the promoters.

SEEN AND HEARD. Nothing extenmate, nor set down aught in malice. SKtKESFEAat. I stood upon the Bryn top, the other afternoon, as the big, red sun was slowly sinking in the purple west, and away over the far-flung range of billowed mountain tops, seemed to touch with fire the proud peak of lofty Plynlimon. Along the sweet, sylvan valley below, the sheen of his splendour illuminated leafage of scarlet and gold, amber and ruby, mottled green and russet brown. The glory of autumn was aglow in this purple halo, and I do not remember gazing upon a more enchanting panorama of the most beautiful in nature. What a witchery there is about this Cin- derella of the seasons. I lingered till the last streaks of sunlight faded from the western sky, and the stars one by one were lit till the grey shadows of gloaming crept down the hillsides, and obliterated my en- trancing picture, grander far than artist's brush can ever paint. The autumnal tints are not to charm us for very long this year, but they are exceptionally beautiful in copse and meadow where there is variety of foliage. A correspondent sends me a newspaper cutting, setting forth the senseless ravings of some ill-balanced individual who elects to speak in the name of Socialism, and he asks me if these be the revolutionary ideas with which my social sympathies are asso- ciated. He might just as well ask if I approve of all things that are said and done in the name of Christianity, yea, of religion. Those who look upon Socialism as but an organised system of spoliation and robbery, display a consummate ignorance of its real aims and objects. True Socialism is not merely a system of adaptation of economics for the readjustment of society— it carries with it, if not a new, a true con- ception and application of religious princi- ples. Other conceptions of religion have proved too narrow, too limited in scope, too cold, and far too indifferent to the great catalogue of human wrongs. Socialism, indeed, comes as the natural product of evolution and philosophy, and, sooner or later, it will be the crown and triumph of practical Christianity. As James Russell Lowell wrote :— The time is ripe, a rotten ripe for charge 11 Then let it come; I have no fear of what Is called for by the instincts of maukird Nor think I that God's world n-ill fall apart, Because we tear a parchment more or less. Attention is directed to to-day's leading article, wherein volunteers, and prospective volunteers in particular, and the public generally, may find some instructive re- flections upon the new territorial army scheme, propounded by Mr Haldane, whose recent illuminating speeches I have followed with intense interest. Recalling the vicis- situdes through which our citizen soldiers have passed, their long fight with official- dom, their discouragement at the hands of various War Ministers, and their uphill struggle out of nothingness, in the face of Satire and ridicule, until by inestimable. self-sacrifice and patriotic devotion they attained to the honour of being the finest shots in the world, and proved their valour and efficiency on many a bloody battle field in South Africa, one rejoices to acclaim the long delayed recognition of their worth. Most of my readers are, no doubt, aware that the birth of the modern volunteer movement dates back half a century ago, thanks to the bellicose attitude of France. The lord-lieutenant of each county was authorised to form volunteer corps, and although the conditions of service were far from inviting, there was an immediate and remarkable response to the appeal for civilian soldiers. It is interesting to re- member that the volunteers had actually to pay for their patriotism. They had to clothe themselves, find their own arms and accoutrements, and supply themselves with military instructors. For the privilege of I defending his country, each man paid some- thing like 210 a year. It speaks eloquently for national patriotism that, notwithstanding all these disabilities, 120,000 volunteers were mustered in a few months. Now the Lords- Lieutenants are charged with the duty of reorganising this defensive force, after a fashion that will make it thoroughly efficient and reliable, and give something like a real soldierly character to every man that dons the scarlet tunic. Happily, we have as lord-lieutenant of Montgomeryshire, a gentleman who is, perhaps, the most en- thusiastic civilian soldier in the Principality. What he has done for the yeomanry is too well known to need repetition here; it may, however, be remembered in the estimate of what he is likely to do to make the man- hood of Montgomeryshire a conspicuous unit in the Welsh division of the territorial army. I know there are many good, but unre- flecting, people, whose repugnance of militarism will by no means assist him in the effort. Some years ago, a contingent of the 5th V.B. was formed in a part of upper Montgomeryshire-an admirable con- tingent of smart, intelligent young men, who would have been a credit to the regiment and the district to which they belonged. But, by and by, the local pulpit opened fire upon what it regarded as the unchristian-like purpose of this organization* with the result that a most promising con- tingent was disbanded. The occupant of that pulpit may have rejoiced over his powers of moral suasion but how little he realised his responsibility. I wonder would he have slept more peacefully of nights if at his bidding every soldier in the country had laid down his arms, and every ship in our navy had been scuttled and sent to the bottom of the sea. The wisdom of George Washington has stood the test of time— To be prepared for war is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace." If Russia had only known of the naval and military might of Japan, we should probably have been spared one of the most terrible conflicts in history had Britain realised the enormity of the task of conquering South Africa, would she not have lingered longer in her negotiations for a pacific settlement of differences ? And if in those dark days of the Boer War, thousands of our manhood voluntarily responded to the call, can we doubt the patriotic response that will be given to rally to this standard of the homeland ? Where is the ceward that would not dare To fight for such a land ? LUKE SHARPED

E. S§& R. 5th VOLUNTEER BATTALION THE SOUTH WALES BORDERERS. REGIMENTAL ORDERS BT COLONEL E. PRYCE-JONES, Commanding. Headquarters, Newtown, 2nd November, 1907. NIL. F. GILLESPIE, Captain. Adjt 5th V.B. South Wales Borderers. COMPANY ORDERS. B COMPANY. DUTIES.-N.C. Officers on duty for week ending 9th Nov.-L- Sergt Keay and L-Corpl Phillips. Signed, C. E. ELWELL, Captain, Commanding B Company 5th V.B., S.WB. C COMPANY. SHOOTING CLUB.—Members wishing to join should now give in their names to Sergt F. Bluck, secretary. (Signed) LENNOX NAPIER, Commanding C Co., 5thV.B., S.W.B.

THE VOLUNTEERS. THE British army," said DISRAELI, is the garrison of the Empire, but the Volunteer army is the garrison of our II hearths and homes." Outside the swirl of political strife the recognition of this con- stitutional maxim is uniting all parties in a patriotic effort to put into practical operation Mr HALDANE'S territorial scheme of home defence. Mr HALDANE has triumphed where a long line of war minis- ters have signally failed. Who would have imagined that this typical chancery lawyer, whose mental recreation is philosophy and metaphysics, could suddenly turn his atten- tion to the problem of the army, and seemingly without the slightest difficulty evolve a scheme which, whatever defects time may discover in it, has at least the conspicuous merit of bringing order out of the chaos into which our military affairs had drifted ? According to military autho- rities, an admirable machine has been constructed, and enthusiastic support from the manhood of the country, from employers of labour, and from labour associations, will ensure its successful working. The scheme organises a civilian army of fully 300,000 men, drawn from the militia, volunteers, and yeomanry, and forms it into a strong, homogeneous line of defence. This force is to be supplied with all the staff necessary for rapid and efficient mobilization on a war footing, and we gather from the KING'S speech to the Lords Lieutenant that funds will be available to relieve commanding officers from financial liabilities. We hope that this means a measure of absolute relief from the burdens hitherto borne by these officers. Under the new territorial scheme a Volunteer can enlist between 18 and 24 years of age, and he is required to serve at least four years. If, however, he wishes to withdraw before the expiration of that time he can do so on short notice and without penalty should his reasons be con- sidered good. Mr HALDANE made it clear the other day that if exigencies of business will not permit a volunteer to continue in the service, he will have the opportunity of resigning without payment. During the discussion of the proposals in Parliament a 90 fine was mentioned as a suitable penalty for resignation, but it was also understood that the regulation would have an elastic application. "There is not the slightest "intention," says Mr HALDANE, "of apply- ing fines against the willing men who "have reasonable excuse for leaving. What the Army Council wishes is to protect "itself against the lazy men who waste the public money." The old volunteer is to be placed on a different footing. Mr HALDANE says to him—"If you like to go on tentatively you may take service for a year, but if you don't like our con- "ditions, though we think you will, you may go. It is for you to decide." Regarding the annual training, a fifteen days camp is desired, and wherever this can be arranged funds will be provided. An eight days' camp is, however, sanctioned, as well as camps extending over only a week end. Moreover, it is the intention of the Army Council to find suitable camp- ing and training ground nearer home, and thus obviate excursions to distant country The Yeomanry, which are to form the cavalry of the territorial army, will have & brigade organisation and staff, and an administrative service, which they previously lacked. That in brief is the composition of what the KING has been pleased to designate the Imperial Army of the Second Line, and its organization deserves all the encourage- ment and assistance which the country can give. The force is to be organised on a county basis, and thus we are resorting to the old system in the hope that local pride and patriotism will be stimulated. As Mr HALDANE stated at Rhyl on Wed- nesday, his scheme is not set in a cast- iron mould; it can be bent to suit cir- cumstances, and there is every reason to belieTe that if it is carried out with popmlar enthusiasm it will give us what we Bever had before—a volunteer territorial force, capable, with the assistance of the navy, of rendering our shores absolutely immune from attack. Efficiency is the key- note of the scheme. What we have to provide for is not the defiance of our neighbours, but simply our own defence. As far as protection is concerned, some people may think that that, owing to our insular position, is a matter primarily and almost exclusively of naval strength and strategy, because, with our fleet out of action, the most powerful and efficient army corps would avail us nothing against an enemy content to starve us into submission. But there is just the possibility of raids when our fleet, or the bulk of it, is engaged elsewhere, and to cope with these, or to prevent a panic arising from threatened invasion, a strong, but more efficient than strong, defensive force is required. A force of 309,000 is certainly capable of this task, but every unit of it has to be efficient. Hence the strict regulations, which will give the country value for the money it is prepared to pay.

THE COUNTY ASSOCIATION. LAST week the KING summoned the Lords Lieutenant of England, Scotland, and Wales, to Buckingham Palace, where he explained the duties imposed upon them under the territor- ial scheme. To them is entrusted the raising, equipping, and maintaining of the force in a fit condition to take the field, "whether for training or for war," the provision and maintenance of rifle ranges, drill halls, and such accommodation as is necessary for the safe custody of arms and equipments, for which funds will be placed at their disposal by the Army Council, while the command and training of the force will be taken by the generals in the commands and the generals and other officers serving under them, so that the "force may enjoy in the fullest degree, in "common with the regular army, those advantages which accrue from being in- structed in the highest:and most developed "school of military thought," We under- stand that the chairman and vice-chairman of each dDunty division are to be nominated in the first instance by the Army Council, presumably in order to ensure the appoint- ment of men thoroughly and actively in sympathy with the movement. It may be said that these County Associations, controlled by Lords Lieutenant, will not commend themselves to a democratic people. But they will not be so controlled. Half their members will consist of represen- tative Yeomanry and Volunteer officers whose regiments form the county division, and the remaining half shall consist of representatives of Borough and County Councils, Universi- ties, employers of labour, and labour organ- isations. The County Association, therefore, should be made thoroughly representative and popular, and we have not the slightest doubt that that will be the aim of Sir WATKIN WILLIAMS-WYNN. Montgomeryshire is fortunate in having a Lord-Lieutenant so capable and willing to undertake the task of organisation-a onerous task which can enamour few people who are more or less ignorant of military affairs, however inactively patriotic. Nor do we doubt that Sir WATKIN will succeed not only in evoking the patriotic response of every member of the Dandy Fifth, but of gather- ing around him a band of supporters repre- sentative of all classes in the community, enthusiastically concerned for the construc- tion of what Mr HALDANE calls the only complete bulwark against conscription and compulsion." And it must not be for- gotten that in this great defensive force Wales will take a distinct place. We have decided definitely and finally," said Mr HALDANE at Rhyl, to offer you a complete Welsh division, commanded by a "general of your own, and we rely upon the patriotism of the people of Wales to organise themselves for home defence, in their own cause, and in their own divi- sion of the British territorial army."

Still They Come, WEDNESDAY'S meeting of Caersws District Council furnished yet another revolting picture of rural insanitary conditions. We read in the report of Inspector HUMPHREYS of a house at Rhvdyronen, Llangurig, through the roof of which the water is streaming in in many places." Within a few yards of the door are pigstyes and a privy, and, absolutely devoid of drainage, the premises are in a very dirty condi- tion." The landlord, so says the Inspector, could not be prevailed upon by his agent "to do anything," but he may now be moved by the knowledge that the local authority is on his track. With this expression of opinion the Council seemed satisfied. It is even more surprising to learn of serious sanitary defects at Cwmbellan, Staylittle, and Trefeglwys Council Schools. Where children are compulsorily congregated it is surely the duty of the sehool managers to see that their health is not menaced by filthy conditions and inefficient water sup- plies. Are not the members of the District Sanitary Authority beginning to feel ashamed of this endless succession of most discreditable pictures ? It is high time they determined to deal sternly with owners of property who wilfully ignore their obli- gations or regard them with something like stupid indifference. The Flood at Newtown. THB inundation of a considerable portion of Newtown on Wednesday, caused by the over- flowing of the Green Brook, will demand the final settlement of a vexed question between the county and urban authorities. Whoever is responsible for the control of this stream, such another flood must be rendered im- possible. It may be contended that the flood resulted from a blockage of the channel, and that the responsibility rests upon those whose duty it is to see that the course of the water is kept clear of obstructions. We are not to express an opinion. But this much we venture to say, that if the County Council raised their stone wall alongside the Dolfor-road, the risk of flooding would be greatly minimised, and a most dangerous place safeguarded. At all events patience is exhausted with a state of things which sub- jects property to destruction, and seriously affects the health and comfort of a large number of people. Unique. OUTSTANDING in the public life of Mont- gomery is the fine figure of Alderman N. W. FAIRLES-HUMPHREYS, who for the tenth time has accepted the mayoral chair, and thus established a unique record in the history of that ancient office. By Liberal and Con- servative alike, this worthy citizen is held in the highest esteem, and certainly no public servant was ever more deserving of this remarkable tribute from his fellows. Some of the best pages in the annals of the County town are illuminated by the splendid services of Mr FAIRLES-HUMPHREYS, and we sincerely hope he will be long spared to direct the affairs of a community, which to him has always seemed a real labour of love. The municipal contest in the But- tington Ward of Welshpool resulted in the dismissal of Mr C. T. PUGH by the surpris- ing majority of 81. Mr EDWIN JONES' election is regarded as an expression of a desire on the part of the people of Butting- ton to be represented by a councillor more in direct touch with their interests. Small Holdings in Montgomeryshire. MucH speculative interest is centred in the circular letter which the County Council has addressed to urban and rural authorities with respect to the Small Holdings and Allotments Act. These bodies are invited to state the extent of the demand for hold- ings and allotments- in their respective districts. In some cases committees have been appointed to receive the names of applicants, and forward them to the County Council; in others it has been agreed to advertise. We think the district authorities should publish a brief and plain-worded explanation of the Act setting forth the con- ditions under which the holdings and allot- ments shall be held, in order that country people may know precisely how to construct their applications according to the character of the land they wish to occupy. County councillors, also, are expected to give a lead to the movement in their own divisions. Something more than merely the issuing of a request for applications should be done if.-in Montgomeryshire we are to exploit the full measure of the Act. Newtown Relief Fund. WE congratulate the Relief Fund Commit- tee at Newtown upon their thoughtful and prompt action in coming to the help of the poor victims of Wednesday's flood. They might have doubled the sum which it was agreed to disburse in coal, considering that there are no fewer than eighty sufferers, and that J680 are available for disposal. For the maintenance of this fund, the Committee should contrive to arrange some kind of entertain- ment, or otherwise organise a public appeal on behalf of an object which could not fail to excite the practical sympathy of all classes. Each winter, doubtless, there is much privation silently suffered by poor people whose worthy spirit of independence spurns the thought of soliciting parish relief, or even a penny from a neighbour. It is such deserving cases that the Committee should feel most anxious to succour.

In Defence of Sir Watkin. Speaking at a Conservative meeting at Colwyn Bay on Thursday night, Lord Kenyon said that a friend of his, Sir Watkin Wynn, had been attacked on the subject of his agreements with his tenants. The party really responsible for the alteration of the agreements was the Radical party. Owing to the recent legislation in the House of Commons, which the House of Lords had passed, Sir Watkin, like other landed proprietors, had been compelled to adapt his agreements with his tenants to meet the new law. But he (Lord Kenyon) was per- fectly certain, from what he knew of the Wynn- stay estate, that there was no disposition to be harsh with the tenants, or to alter the terms of the tenancy except where alteration was necessary to make the agreements conform to the new law. Could it be supposed that the landlords, in their own interests, were going to make it more difficult for the tenants to live ? [The subject of this agreement is further dealt with on another page.-ED.]

CAERSWS. DAVID THE SHEPHERD BOY."—A Sacred cantata will be repeated in the Village Hall on Saturday next by special request. A first rate choir has been organized for the rendition of this beautiful cantata, and the assistance of several vocalists from Newtown has been enlisted to swell the volume of the choruses. A large audience is anticipated, as also is a capital programme.