Cheshire Observer

FLINT I YOUTHFUL DEFENDANTS.—At Flint Petty Sees ons, on Monday, before the Mayor, Mr. C. N. Hull and Major Dyson, two boys named William Jones and Thomas Roberts, aged 15 and eight years respectively, were charged with steal- ing 2d.. from the. per on of Robt. William Old- field, of Halkrn.-—Roberts was discharged, and Thomas, who Kid already been before the court three times, was ordered to receive twelve strokes by the superintendent of police in the presence of his father.

HESWALL. I ATHLETIC SPORTS. --The annual sports of I Moorland House College took place on Saturday at Heswall, in the extensive grounds belonging to ?. me institution, ana, as usual, excited keen interest. The events were well contested, and a most enjoy- able day's sport was witnessed. A feature of these festivals is the valuable collection of prizes offered every year. which include solid silver cups and tankards, &c.. and this year will be long notable for the very handsome old Irish goblet of Rolid silver, standing Win. high, presentfd by old boys of the school as a championship cup.

HA UGH ALL. POOR RATE.—The work of revising the valua- tion list of the township has now been completed bv the overseers, who were assisted in the work by several representative ratepayers. The revised list has been deposited at the school, and for fourteen days will be open to inspection by persons assessed, or liable to be assessed, to the relief of the poor, in the township. At the end of that period the list will be forwarded to the Assessment Committee of the Chester Union.

NANTWICH. I IjERIOUS RAIL \VA Y SMASH.-A serious rail- way smash, the cause of which has Hot yet been ascer- tained, occurred beyond Nantwich Junction early on Saturday morning A South Wales express goods train was running down the incline in the direction of Nantwieh Station, when five wagons left the rails. Two of them were smashed, and the others rolled down a steep embankment. A break- down gang flom Crewe repaired the permanent way. The morning mail passed the spot half an hour previous to the accident.

MICKLE TRAFFORD. I oSEW RECTOR.Y.-Froni the current number of the Parochial Magazine we extract the following — For the first time during the history of this ancient parish a suitable residence has been provided for the incumbent. The new rectory is all that can be desired in convenience and appearance, and is built on the best possible site for the performance of the services of the Church, and carrying on the work of the Durish." LENTEN SE RVICFS. -1) tiring the season of Lent, special services have been held in the school- room each Wednesday evening, and special preachers have occupied the pulpit of Plemstall Church each Sunday. These include the Rev. A. E. Farrar (Upton), the Rev. E R. Hutchinson (Dunham), the Rev. C. H. Blagden (Oxford), the Rev. H. S. Bolton (St. Helens), the Rev. H. H. Wright (Chester Cathedral), and the Rev. J. PritchiJrd (Thornton).

TARPORLEY. I .dKASJ. IvS.—I his epidemical disease is very prevalent in Tarporley, and in consequence the I managers of the Natioaal School have deemed it I advisable to close the schools for the Eastsr holiday I a week earlier. STACK FIRE.—Shortly after ten o'clock on Friday night a large stack of hay in the stack-yard of Captain E. Wynne Griffith, of Tiresford, Tiver- ton, was discovered to be- on fire. The Tarporley Fire Brigade were summoned, and about half the stack was saved, though the fire had got a good j holal when the discoverv was made. HELPING HIMSELF.—On Saturday, at the offices of Mr. T. Cawley, clcrk to the justices, a canal boatman named Richard Adderley was charged before Mr. R. Ba.te with stealing four gallons of beer from c hogshead in a wagon at Calveley Station.—Mr. R. D. Hugli-es stated that on Friday afternoon he saw the prisoner standing over a can into which beer was running from a hole in a cask.—F. P. Askew, stationmaster at Calveley. etited that In went to the goods ware- house and saw the prisoner running away. Ho chased him, and, catching him. charged him with stealing the beer. Prisoner admitted doing so.— Prisoner was remanded to Over Petty Sessions, where he was brought up on Monday and sen- tenced to 14 days' imprisonment with hard labour.

WREXHAM I WREXHAM&RHOSELECTRICjTRAMWAY. Great interest was manifested on baturday by the residents of these towns, in the formal opening of the electric tramway system from Johnstown to Wrexham. The system adopted is the "overhead one, and the whole distance of the line is 41 miles; the scheme has been promoted by the British Electric Traction Company, London. The head- quarters are at Johnstown, where a large shed, workshops, and offices have been erected on the site formerly occupied by the old tram shed. We learn that it 13 intended shortly to extend the system to Brymbo and Coedpoeth, and also to Llangollen, via Ruabon. COLLIERY ACCIDENT. On Saturday an alarming accident happened at the Wrexham and Acton Colliery. It seems that as the carrier, containing twenty men, was being lowered down the shaft, the brake refused to act, and the men were dashed with terrific force into the sump. The scene which ensued, as described by an eye-witness, was an awful one, and many of the men received terrible injuries. Dr. J Drmkwater was quickly on the scene, and three of the worst cases were taken in ambulances to the Wrexham Infirmarv. while the others were carried home. Inquiries at the Wrexham. Infirmary elicited the in- formation that the three men taken there are James Phoenix, Rhosnessney, William Parry, Rhos- robin, and J no. Roberts, New Rhosrobin. Parry and Roberts are seriously injured. Work at the colliery was at once suspended for the day, those who were already down the pit being brought up another way. PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO CHIL- DREN.—The annual meeting of the Wrexham and District Branch of the Ntgional Society was held at Wrexham on Tuesday, under the presidency of Sir R. A. ffunliffe. In the annual report it was stated that 127 cases had been investigated in the district, 120 of which were found to be true. In six cases prosecution was resorted to, and convic- tions were obtained in all of tham. The receipts amounted to £ 163 13s. 10d. and the expenditure to E190 9s. Id. The report was adopted, and on the motion of Mr. W. B. Roberts (Llangollen), the executive committee was re-elected. An in- ?7-ere d by Mr. R. J. Pa.rr, teresting address was delivered by Mr. R. J. Parr, the assistant secretary of the society, and at the clase Mr. F. H. Hawkins announced that the trustees of the late Mr. Benjamin Piercy had had under consideration the claims oi the society, and he was authorised to say that they had made a grant of ;6100-to be paid through the Wrexham branch—to the society. This intimation was re- ceived with applause.

HrCLKBY. I I'; .J I) i PRIMITIVE METHODIST CONNEXION.- I The last of the special opening services held in connection with the new Primitive Methodist School-chapel t-cck place on Sunday, when the Rev. F. J. Hadfieid, circuit minister, preacned at both the morning and evening services. At the latter service the choir rendered the anthem "Daughter of Zion," Mr. J. Fedden conducting and Mr. W. Stanway presiding at the .organ. In the afternoon a service of song, entitled "Eva," was given by the choir, ths- solos, "Home, Sweet Home" and "Thou art passing away," being taken by Miss Rhoda Warburton. The Rev. F. J. Hadfieid officiated as reader. Mr. Fedden con- ducted and Mr. Stanwav nresided at the orran. CRICKET SECTION OF ATHLETIC CLUB. The annual general meeting of the members of the cricket section (Athletic Club) was held in the pavilicn on Monday evening, Mr. J. Taylor presiding. The hon. secretary, in his report, stated that during the past season the first eleven had played in all 17 matches, of which nine were won, five. lost and three drawn, scoring 1,596 run; for 139 wickets, against 1,240 runs for 150 wickets. The second eleven played 13 matches, winning six, iosizif., x and drawing one, scoring 620 runs for 127 wickets, against 439 runs for 118 wickets making a grand tctal of 30 matches piayed, 15 being won. eleven lost and four drawn, and total runs scored 2,216 for 266 wickets, against 1,729 runs for 268 wickets. The season on the whole was very successful, but not so auspicious as tho previous one, as, although the first eleven again succeeded in reaching the final for the Chester and District Challenge Cup Competition, they failed to retain the cup which they won the season before, but he hoped they would make amends for their failure last year by again winning it this sea.'on. The president's (Mr. Jas. Taylor's) prize for the best batting average in the first- eleven had been won by Mr. R. Wilson with an average of 27.1 runs for 13 completed innings. Mr. Wilson a'so headed the first eleven bowling average with 48 wickets at a cost of 5.8 runs each, but that gentleman had generously allowed Mr. H. Cowap, who was second with 38 wickets at a cost of 6.6 riir- each, to take the prize. In the second eleven, Mr. E. Hinde headed the batting averages with 11.1 for 7 innings, but, not having played in the requisite number of matches, the prize falls to Mr. G. Fowles with an average of 7.4 for 13 innings. The second eleven bowling prize was secured by Mr. G. Jackson, who ob- tained 40 wickets at a cost of 2.8 runs each. For the ensuing season matches have been arranged for the first eleven with Liverpool 2nd, Garston 1st Mold lpt, Wianes 1st, Eaton Hall, Frodsham and Tattenhall and for the second eleven with (Garston 2nd. Alvanley, Runcorn, Barrow, Ince. Liverpool St. Cyprians and Mcllington. The election of officers for the ensuing season resulted -]s ?.Hows'—First eleven: CaptA -Ir. J. Cros- fand??b captain, Mr. F. Co!e. Second eleven Captin MJ-Vir n T- Harding; sub-captain, Mr. T. Hinde. Ron. s- ecretar ?? H Knight; ?.s" tant secretary. Mr. K W. Crosland com- ■j A* Messrs J. Brotherton, J. W'l? A. Wder' A? ?'? F. Stott, E. Malpas, R. .WBson aDd W. st??wav.

LITTLE SUTTON. ACCIDENT.—On Monday afternoon a joiner, who was working at Little Sutton Station, met with a serious accident shortly before tw. o clock. It appears that he was working at the wooden partition which separates the booking-office from the waiting-room, when the ladder upon which he was standing suddenly slipped. He fell off the ladder, which came down upon his arm and frac- tured it. The unfortunate man was conveyed to the hospital by the 1.55 p.m. train. I

K 1,, 1, A [,. LENTEN SERVICES-—On Tuesday evening the Rev. J. T. Evans (vicar), who has during the season of Lent been preaching a course of sermons, delivered a speoiaJ address to communicants in St. PhiLp's Church. There was a good congrega- tion, and the address was attentively listened to. DEATH OF MR SPENCER.—On Friday even- ing Mr. George Spencer died at his residence, Biookside, Kelsall, in his 6ht year. The deceased cari- ed on for many years an extensive business a-s plumber and glazier, but retired about five years ago. He was a member of the Parish Council at iha time of his deco?&e, and was much re;pœted. The remahis of the debased were interred m Kel- sail Churchyard on TU2way afternoon, the chief mourners being Mr. R. Spencer and Mr. E. Spen- cer (sons), Messrs. T. Spencer, F. Spencer and A. j Spcncer (nephews), Messrs. T. Nicholas, W. Rus- coe, J. Wright, A. Crank, H. Walker, etc. j

I HOOTON. ENGLISH AMATEUR QUOITING ASSOCI- ATION.—The adjourned meeting took place on Tuesday, Mr. J. Hill presid.ng, and all the clubs being represented with the exception of Heswall. Mr. W. Williams, on behalf of Little Sutton club, applied for admission to the league. This was unanimously granted. Whitby club intimated their intention not to run a reserve team in the second division, of the league. Thornton Hough asked to be allowed to join the second division, and this was agreed to, as Little Sutton would take their place in the first division. The auditors, Mc-ssrs. Argyle and Roberts, reported that they had audited the accounts, which shewed a credit balance of J31 lls. lid., and were passed. The handicapping of the clubs was then proceeded with and resulted as follows: -Childer Thornton, Boratch; Little Sutton, Whitby and Great Sutton, 10 each; Heswall, Willaaton and Bromborotigii, 80 each. Second division Thornton Hough, scratch; Eastham and Burton, 50 each; Christie- ton, 80; and the reserve teams of Heswall and Childer Thornton, 110 each. I

BACKFORD. r EASTERTIDE.—Such townspeople as take a (A vantage of the first holiday of the year to pay visits to the rural districts to see tliy countryside in its spring garb cannot fail, if passing through Backford and district, to be struck with the re- markable display of bloom on the fruit trees in the various gardens. The plum and pear trees at present are a very pretty spectacle, being liberally clothed in white blossom as with a mantle of bnow. The damson and earlier plums (Jacobs) were just as fine, but most of these trees have shed or had their bloorn swept away sooner than would have been the case by the strong winds. The spring flowers, daffodils, primroses, etc., are also cut in profusion, while the hedgerows are a beautiful green. Lovers of nature will, there- fore, find much to admire if the holidays are favoured with fine weather. As regards local arrangements for the Good Friday and Easter, there will be a morning service in the parish church on Good Friday and a lantern service, illustrating the sufferings and death of our Lord, in the schoolroom in the evening. On Easter Sunday the usual three service-s will be held in the parish church, which will be decorated in fitting manner to celebrate the great Easter festival of the Church. ■ -o

MO D. RICHARD WILSON'S TOMB.-Attention in Mold has been directed to the dilapidated condition of the tomb of Richard Wilson, the famous landscape painter, who died in 1782, and was buried under what is known an an "altar" tomb in the parish churchyard. It is probable that an effort will be made to place the tomb in good repair and keep it BO in future. SOLDIER, SAILOR AND DESERTER.— Before the Mold Justices on Tuesday, Thomas McCarthy was charged with being a deserter from the 3rd Welsh (Militia) Regiment at Cirdiff.-P.C. Dempsey, of Connah's Quay, said that on the previous day the prisoner sought assistance to recover his clothes which were detained on board the schooner Ryland, lying at Mostyn, on which he had served as cook. He said Captain Manad had retained his clothes and wages because he was absent on the previous Thursday when the vessel left Connah's Quay for Mostyn. He also said that if the captain still refused to hand over his things he would surrender as a deserter in order that the War Office authorities would proceed to recover them.—Accused was ordered to be detained pending the arrival of an escort. TREASURE TROVE.—The neighbourhood of Pontblyddyn, a colliery village near Mold, has been thrown into a state of considerable excitement by a most unusual incident that occurred on Sunday last, the particulars of which- have only just leaked out. It appears that on Saturday some children were playing about a brook, near what is called the Ferm, when they picked up an odd sovereign or two, and they at once ran home to tell their parents the good news. Four or five children again went to play near the same place on Sunday, and they found quite a little heap of sovereigns under the root of a tree adjoining the brook. Altogether about E72, all in gold, has been discovered. It is understood that the police have been informed of the circumstances, of the find," and also that the parents of the children have instructed a Chester solicitor to inquire as to their rights in the matter. In con- nection with the discovery of the money, it is remembered that about twelve years ago an old man (who has since died) was robbed of about £ 150 in the locality, and there is a belief that whoever took the money must have hid, at least, some portion of it, and that the money discovered has some connection therewith. When the affair became known, a surmise was made that probably there was more money hid in the same part, and everyday since persons have been seen raking and using other means to discover more gold.

CEFN. LITERARY SOCIETY.—The weekly meeting of the Cefn Literary and Debating Society was held on Tuesday evening at the club-room. Rho.-iymedre, and was presided over by the presi- dent, Mr. G. Morris. The evening was devoted to impromptu speaking. CONCERT.—On Monday evening, at the Ebenezer Chapel, Cefn Miiwj; Alderman Christ- mas Jones, vice-chairman of the Ruabon School Board, presided over an interesting: concert, which was given by the teachers and girls of Acrefair Board School. The programme consisted of songs, recitations, action tongs, etc. eoRngAs, TEPAYERS' ASSOCIATION.—A meeting of the recently-established Ratepayers' and Property Owners' Association of the Cefn, Rhosymedre, and Acrefair districts was held on Friday night at Cefn Mawr, Ruabon, Mr. D. W. Roberts (vice-chairman of the Cefn Council) presiding. Mr. R. F. Graissar, J.P.. Ai-goc-d Hitll, Llangollen, was elected president, with Councillor George Calvert and John Roberts (Bon Marche) as treasurer and secretary respectively. The following were elected to constitute the Council: Mesjtrs. W. U. Tyler, Isaac Jones and E. Daniels for Newbridge; Messrs. J. Roberts, J. Garden and E. Jones for Rhosymedre; Messrs. J. Dicken, D. Bowen, David Griffiths, R. Bates, and David Lloyd, for Cefn Mawr and Messrs. Willam Roberts, Daniel Williams, W. H. Cunliffo, and Thomas Edwards for Acrefair; while Messrs. Tyler, J. Roberts, Dicken, Bates, and D. Williams were chosen as an executive committee. Messrs. H. H. Hunt (Irefynant) and James Morrison were appointed auditors. EARLY CLOSING OF PUBLIC HOUSES Until late years, Cefn, Ruabon, Rhos and sur- rounding villages were all united, but have now ¡ been separate villages for some time, having their own parish councils and being quite independent of each other. The total population of the district is over 20,000, but separately none of the villages in themselves number above 10,000, and it has therefore been discovered that separately e!wh village comes under the Rural Early Closing Bill ?t 1874 as regards pub.,ic-hous??3. As the result of a public notice issued by the authorities oil the matter, all public-houses in the several viaages named, which are not separately "popu- lous places" within the meaning of the Act, have now to close at 10 p.m. instead of 11 p.m. as herc- .otore. In accordance with this notice, com- mencing on Monday last, a,11 hotels, inns and licensed promises now close an hour earlier than formerly. ii-s may be easily imagined, this alteration has cause d much discussion, a.nd in the case of holders of licences much consternation, throughout the district.

DOG- SAVES ITS MASTER. -+- TOUCHING STORY. A touching story of a dog that saved its master's life a.nd lost its own was incidentally elicited on Monday by an inquiry into the death of William Buckley at Barnsbury. The animal, a sheepdog, belonged to Thomas Manning, potman at the Barnsbury Castle tavern. Buckley, who kus a meat porter, and Manning had been drinking together on Friday evening. Some tima after midnight they went to sleep in a stable near the tavern, lying on the straw that covered the floor. The potman was aroused about three o'clock in the morning by his dog patting him on the nose with its paw. He awoke half-choked with smoke. The stable was on fire. Manning, at the inquest on Monday, said he sprang to his feet, awakened Buckley three times, and then, leaving him rub- b;ii7, his eyes, rushed half-suffocat-ad out of the building. He raised an alarm, he continued, and in rescuing sonic horses. Thinking Butk- ley had followed Inm cut, he forgot to direct. atten- tion to him. He was, too, "dazed," and hardly knew what he was doing. Three-quarters of an hour elapsed, and then the firemen found the dead and charred body of Buckley. In a. corner of the stable lay the sheepdog. Both had been suffo- cated before the fire reached them.Didn't you 1 evon think of your dog—the faithful animal that probably saved your life?" the Coroner asked Man-1 ning, who shook his head sadly.—The Jury ex- pressed regret at the potman's lapse of memory, but Mr. Schroeder, in recording the verdict of "Accidental death," said he thought the fact of Manning having forgotten his dog as well as his friend ought to be taken as a proof that., he was dazed and did not know what he was doing. —•

Umbrellas Re-covered and Eefinished equal to new. Ladies' or Gent's, with the noted H E M Silk, 3/6 to 3/9 each, and at all prices from 1/11 to 12/6.—.bradley' Jtotepttief-bk-tteii, Creator. I

j DENBIGHSHIRE POLICE COM- MITTEE. j THE PROPOSED POLICE STATION AT j ROSSETT. On Monday a meeting of the Denbighshire Standing Joint Committee was held at the County Hall, Wrexham, under the presidency of Captain Griffith-Boscawen. j The Chief Constable ?Major Leadbetter), in his 1! report, st?ced that dur.ng the quarter nine males and two females had been p.aced upon the "black list." Two males who had been "black-listed" had been convicted and fined for obtaining liquor j when on the list, and one female "black-lister" who was convicted of drunkenness had been sent to an inebriates' home for two years. On May 8 the Prince and Princess of Wales proposed to visit Wroxiain, and under the circumstances elaborate preparations wero being made to receive them as the hereditary Princes ot the Principality should be received. lie would have to make such preparations as in his position he was bound to do, and felt sure that they would support him in evory way as they had always done on previous Royal visits. The Chief Constable was given permission to make all necessary arrangements for the Royal visit. Tho committee considered the resolution passed by the County Council referring the whole matter of the purchase of land for a police station at Rossett back to the committee for consideration. Mr. J. W. Lundey (Coiwyn Bay) said ho would move that no further action be taken at present owing to the strong feeling expressed at public meetings of inhabitants of Rossett. The pro- vision now made f-cr the police accommodation at Rossett was, in his opinion, quite sufficient. The estimate was £ 500 and was very high. Mr. Foulkes Jcnes sec-onded. Major Leadbetter said this was the first time such a proposal had been objected to in the county. It was badly wanted, as 20,000 tramps passed through Rossett every year. Mr. Simon Jcnes opposed the resolution. The matter had been before them for four years, and ought to be carried out. The Chairman said ho felt the County Council had no power to refuse to buy the land after the Standing Joint Committee had decided in favour of it. That was the law on the matter. The objection of the inhabitants was a silly one in his opinion, and was an insult to the village to put up a policeman's house and cell. After a long discussion the resolution was lost. On the motion of Colonel Mesham, seconded, by Captain Cole, it was decided that the hr.d should be purchased and that plans for a, policeman's house be prepared.

MARRIAGE OF MISS HELENA PIERCY. A large congregation assembled last week at All Saints' Church, Ennismore gardens, London, S. W., to witness the marriage of Mr. Charles Elliot, late 13th Hussars, younger son of the late Sir George Elliot, Bart., of Pen- shaw, Durham (who was member of Parliament for Northallerton from 1874 to 1885, and for the North Rid.ng, R.iohmond Division, of Yorkshire from 1886 until he d,{'<J in 1895), and Sarah Lady Elliot, of Royal-orescent, Whitbv, Yorkshire, and brother of Sir George Elliot, Bart., of l-tockheatlll Park, Norwich to Miss Helena Piercy, yoiingestl, daughter of the lata Mr. Benjamin Piercy, J.P. (commander of the Crown of Italy), and Mrs. Piercy, of Marchwicl Hall, Wrexham, Dcnbigh- shire. The church WaB simply and effectively dowra- tcd w.th tail pa?ms, and the &crvic? was conducted by the Rev. Ravonscroft Stewart, vicar of All I Saints'. The bnde was led up the aisle by her brother, Mr. R. E. Pieroy, and given away by her mother. She wore a beautiful gown of soft white chiffon and lace, with a Jong Ja.c? train em- broidered in siiver, and ehe carried a largo bouquet of lilies of the valiey and caulIdiom tied with white satin ribbon. Litdo MaE?lor Br.au MarAne&u acted as page, and wore a white satin Court suit with a white saun cape lined with pale blue. There were also eight little bridesma,ids-the Misses Ivy and Marda. Bell Irving, Miss Enid Bernard, M.ss Violet Jardine (nieces of the bride), the two Misses Clayton Swan, and the two Misses Hague Cook (iil of the bridegroom), who wore long- pale parsoc- Who coats, with crepe d? chine fichus, and large liberty hats trimmed with daisies and clilffonl while they carried bas- kets of pink Malmaison carnations. The bride- groom was attended by Captain Spenoer, 13th Hussars, who acte-d as best man. A Jargo reoaption was afterwards held by Mrs. Piercy at 15, Enmsmore-gardens, S.W. ^kindly lent for the occasion by Mr. and Airs. J. Bell Irving, the bride's sister and brother-in-law). Among those invited, of whom many were pre- sent, were the Duke of Leeds, the Marquis and Marchioncss of Zetland, the Earl and Countess of Tankerville, the Earl and Countc»3 of Wilton, Viscount and Viscountess Maitland, the Dowager Lady Rosemead, Lord and Lady Stratheden and Campbell, the Hon. M. Campbell, Sarah Lady Elliot, Sir George and Lady Elliot, S-r Robert Jardine, S-r Archibald and Lady Buchan-Hepburn, Mrs. Montagu, Mr. and Mrs. R. W. B. Jardine, Sir John and Lady Lawson, Mr. and Mrs. Clayton Swan, the Hon. George and Mrs. Hill Trevor, Captain the Hon. Hugh and Mrs. Tyrwhitt, Sir, Artnur and Lady Lucas, the Hon. Rowland and Mrs. Leigh. Captain and Mrs. Piercy, Mr. Henry j Piercy, Lady Mary Reade and Miss Reade, Lady j Pulsston, Sir Richard end Lady Waldie Griffith, and General the Hon. Savage and Mrs. Mostyn, ete, By kind permission of Colonel Viscount Mait- land, part of the band of the City of London Im- perial Yeomanry (Houghriders) played selections of music during tlw reccption. Later in the day Mr. and Mrs. Charles Elliot left amid a shower of silver confetti for their honeymoon tour. The bride travelled in a smart costume of white cloth trimmed with Irish crochet work, the bodice being of chiffon, and she dw wore a pretty cloth and laca capo and a tming hat to match. Tho presents were very numerous, and included From the employes of the Marchwicl estate, a large silver inkstand; the cottagers of Marchwiel village, a silver brush and comb in a satin-lined box the indoor servants at Marchwiel Hall, a silver tea caddy; the servants at Snake-moor, a silver-mounted scent bottle. Colonel Smithson and the officers of the 13th Hussars save tho bride- groom four large silver fruit dishes. Mr. Elliot1 gave his. bride a diamond ring and a diamond and j emerald bangle. Mrs- Piercy gave her daughter j a diamond ring, a Dresden china lamp, a set of Sevres plates,. Sevres vases, six silver candlesticks, and a cheque; Sarah Lady Elliot gave a cheque; Sir George and Lady Elliot, a large diamond swal- low and a canteen of silver; the Earl and Countess of Wilton, a lace box; the Earl and Countess of Tankerville, a lace fan; Mr. and Mrs. R. W. B. Jardino, a diamond tiara; Sir Robert Jarcline, Ii. large diamond brooch; Mr. and Mrs. J. Bell Irving, a brougham; Miss Piercy, a pony cart; Mr. Henry Piercy, a diamond brooch and banglc- Ladv Puleston, a silver centrepiece; Sir Richard; and Lady Waldie Griffith, a large silver bowl; Sir Arthur and Lady Lucas, a turquoise bracelet; Lord and Lady Stratheden and Campbell, a silver hot water jug; Mr. and Mrs. Clayton Swan and Miss Elliot, a large silver lamp; Mr. and Mrs. Hague (Cork), a silver coffee and tea set; Captain and Mrs. Herbert Piercy, a sofa; and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Piercy, a small silver tray, etc. ——————-—————-—-——

A GREAT AUSTRALIAN DISCOVERY. + j Australia, that mysterious country of gold, has been the birth-place of many wonderful things. Foremost amongst them is the discovery by an eminent scientist of a natural vegetable substance. which acts more beneficially upon the liver and digestive system than any medicine yet dis- covered. Chas. Forde, the discoverer of this substance, had long been impressed with the remarkable freedom from disease of the Australian natives. On this subject the great Captain Cook wrote: I did not observe (amongst -the natives) any appearance of disea&e or bod? complaint or eruption of the skin. Very eld men without hair and teeth shewed no signs of decrepitude and were full of vivacity." There must be some reason for this, and Chas. Forde, armed with the implements of modern scientific research, sought for that reason amongst the rich profusion of Australian herbs which had been the sole j medicines of the natives. After years of research j he found himself the happy discoverer of a vegetable substance which acted on the liver and digestive organs differently and in superior manner to any medicine known. The best laboratories, the most modern appliances, and all that science dictated as being best for the purpose was requisitioned in the compounding of this substance into convenient medicinal torm; and the re-ult. of it an was the production a tew years back of Chas. Forde's Bile Beans-the most perfect medicine of modern times. On their appearance Bile Beans—the product of modern science—had to compete against the ancient and imperfect medicines which had been before the public for nearly half a century, but the public soon decided in their favour, and Bile Beans are now the most widely used family medicine over thrae-quarters of a million doses being taken daily. The superiority of Bile Beans lies in the fact that they do not mereiy purge, giving temporary relief only, like tho old-fashioned so-called remedies of forty or fifty years ago. They act directly on the Ever and digestive organs, strengthening and stimulating those organs to perlorm their natural duties. They produce a gentle action on the bowels, curing or preventing constipation, cleansing the stomach and ridding the system of all impurities. Do not be misled by claims of half a hundred pVlis in the b:ix, wj.cre probably four to six con- be discontinued. One Bile iiean is one dose, and they can be discontinued after the cure is effected. They are purely vegetable; they contain no harmful drugs, and they are the safest family- medicine. Of all chemists at or two-and- nine per box.

MID-CHESHIRE HOSPITAL SCHEME.—A meeting of the Hospital Committee, representing North- wich, Wins ford and Middlewich Urban and North- wich Rural Councils, was held on Friday, when the clerk reported having received from the County Council the loan to purchase the site for the hospital at Davenham. and a cheque for £2,000 was signed in favour of Mr. W. H. Moreton for the land. The conveyance of the land was sealed, as well as the undertaking to the County Council for repayment of the amount received.

DISTRICT COUNCILS. HOOLE URBAN. A meeting of the Hoole Urban District Council was held on Monday evening at Hoole, Mr. T. B. Richardson presiding. There were also present Dr. Lewis A. Williams, Messrs. W. illiama (vice-chairman), W. E. Phillips, A. L. Williams, J. T. ball, W. H. Nightingale, A. E. \Vatts, T. Woollam, E. Mealing, W. J. Croydon, with the clerk (Mr. A. E. Caidecutt), the sur- veyor (Mr. ilewitt), the inspector of nuisances (Mr. C. Atkin).—-The Clerk said there had on.y been one case oj: intecuous disease, namely enteric iever, in the diotLct timing tHe month. AN LCUI\ UMiUAh GUMMJLTTEE. I In moving tne adoption 01 uie minutes ot the I Parks Committee, u.e Gnairman «aid tnat on tne roads tne comnuii.ee nail saved ;t;loo on the esti- mates. ti,40i had been borrowed, but only iJl,50U bad been spent. lie tnougnt that was very satisfactory. Mr. Win. Williams said that a great deal had been said about the park at tHe elections, if ne had known tnose figures ne could have repudiated the statements maae. A great deal nad been said about surface water. Un that account the Council ought to be given great credit. It was a very economical way in wnicn the Uouncil was working, tne cost of ine road coming out at less than he thought it would havecost. Ttie committee, and particular.y the surveyor, might take credit for that. The district might rest assured that they were carrying out tne work in tne most economical and cifioieiit manner possible. Mr. T. Woollam said he began to wcnder whether all the wisdom tney had had in the Council had gone into other channels since certain members left the Council. lie was very glad to hear that statement. Mr. W. E. Phillips said the Council had not only saved money, but in making the road they had overdcne the doing. The vice-chairman would bear him out w hen ne said that they had increased the depth of pitching by several incnes. It must be of everlasting strength. Bater-avenue was a wonderfully good job. The Chairman Well, gentlemen, you have heard the remarks made, and now we will get to business. (Laughter.) The minutes were confirmed. MR. NIGHTINGAJJE a DEPARTURE. I Mr. W. E. Piiihips said it was a matter oi very deep regret to him, and to every member of the Council that that night they had to say "Good- bye to a very old and esteemed member. He referred to Mr. Nightingale. To him (Mr. Phillips) the parting was particularly sad, lor they joinea the Council together, now many years ago. Wtien they came tnere first they found Hoole a quagmire. He iMr. >. ltnitmtraie) had always voted for the progress alid we,iiire of Hoole. He Ifcft it a little paradise. Tney were a perfect community. Mr. J. T. Ball supported. He thought some- thing should be said about their old a.nd esteemed friend, Mr. John Taylor. Mr. T. Woollam aho supported. In Mr. Nightingale's departure they were sustaining a very great loss. fie only wished they could make an a.derman of him. (Laughter.) The Chairman had also very great pleasure in adding his testimony. Mr. Nightingale, ni reply, said it was 14 years since he entered the Council, then the local board, and he had never been defeated at an election. They ought to pride themselves on a very estimable clerk. (Hear, near.) As regarded urban law, he was second to none in the country. Touching on the elections, he said he remembered the times when one only had a blue paper. He wished them back again. The soliciting of votes spoiled all councils and all public bodies, for the simple reason that the best men will not go round the district seeking votes. If there was none of it they would get a fine Council in Hoole again. He should always look forward to the prosperity of Hoole, and he would always look to the head- ings in the papers when there had been a unani- mous row. (Laughter.) The papers would never let them off when there was a chance of giving them a dig in the ribs. (Laughter.) FLOOKERSBROOK RAILWAY BRIDGE. I ine Clerk reported that at a recent meetin<>- of r the Joint Committee it was decided to ask the 1 Joint Railway Companies to forward estimates ior providing two ïtt. Oin. footways for the Flooicersbrcok Railway Bridge, eitner on the cantilever system or on COlllmns, and with re- volving gates to keep out catt.e. 'n, ISOLATION HOSPITAL. j With reference to the County Council's order that live beds be provided in an isolation hospital, the Clerk said tne Chester Corporation ottered four beds, and one bed in the Small-pax Hospital, at an annual ciiarge of £ oU, the Council to pay cost, of maintenance if theirs was the only patient. Dr. Lewis A. Williams said if there was only one case the cost would be very great. There was one other alternative—he did not know whother it was worth considering-namely, to allow matters to stand as they were, and take the risk of losing the thud grant from the County Council. Mr. W. Williams said it was a great hardship to have to provide one bed for small-pox q.-c wnen such caes were very rare. He did not think it would be safo to ignore it altogether. It would place Hoole in an awkward position. Dr. \Viliiams: Supposing we only provide four beds, we shall lose our grant. Tne Clerk thought the County Council were becoming more reasonable, and that the question was again to be brought up at their next meeting" in May. Mr. Williams proposed that an agreement re- lating to four beds be obtained from the Cor- poration. Dr. Williams moved an amendment that the clerk write to the Corporation informing- them that they were in negotiation for reducing the number of beds from five to four, and that no decision could be made until they were settled. The Cierk said he had already written to that effect, and the Town Clerk replied that the com- mittee oould allow the matter to stand over no longer. Dr. Williams then withdrew his amendment, and the original motion was carried. EDUCATION RATE. Mr. R. P. Ward wrote asking whether the Council intended to levy any rate independent cf the County Council rate.-The Clerk said the Council could levy a rate -of Id. for seconda.ry education independent ot the County Council.- The Chairman said it seemed most desirable to 1" 1 itdve tne matter in the hands of the Countv I Council.—No action was taken ANNUAL MEETING. I the arinual meeting of the Council was fixed I for Aprii 20th, on the motion of Mr. J. T. Ball, seconded by Mr. A. L. Williams. WIRliAL RURAL. I A meeting of the Wirral Rural District rv. wa. held at B.kcnhcad on Monday, Mr. T' ^Ws presiding.—The Chairman moved that the medical oi&cer s report be ?ut to all the. p ax I sh councils and m08tings, It was very g?hfying to know that the death-rate was only 11.6. They might con- gratulate tnemselves as well as Dr. Kenyon upon the report. The water might be hard, but there were not a big lot dying.— The proposition was agreed to. WEST CHESHIRE WATER. I I m. ihe Clerk (Mr. J. E. 6. Ollive) read a letter I from the secretary of the West Cheshire Water Company, replying to the Council's complaints about the hardness of the water. The secretary -1 ?. contenaed that the reports of wnaiysee shewed that! the water was fit for domestic purposes. The company wore advised that it was not detrimental to health. It was much softer than that supplied in some important districts m the neighbouinood. The directors were prepared to adopt a softening process .f people would pay for it. They did not regaid it as part of their duty to reduce the hard- ness of the water, and they were advised that they were fully carrying out their statutory ODhgations. The Chairman: They say we cannot make them. Mr. H. A. Latham said those who had got hot water boilers wouid be glad to pay increased rates in order to get the water softened. He thought the cottagers and farmers would, however, object to any increase in the rutes. Tjae only difficulty was whether the water was injurious to health. So far that had not been s2ttled to the satisfaction of the public at large. The great thing was that it destroyed boilers, and people continually had to take them out and have new ones put in. The Clerk read an aiiaiv a's from Mr. Carter Bell of water taken from houses in Red Lion-lane Little Sutton. He stated that the excessive quan- tity of mineral matter unfitted the water for use. By special treatment much of that hardness might be removed. Dr. Kenyon: That is well wtater, not the com- pany's. The Clerk: If you decide not to take arbitration you had best let people know you cannot do any- thing in the matter. I It was decided to wait for the replies from the various district councils in the matter ACCIDENT AT LITTLE SUTTON I The Littie fcutton Pansh Council forwarded a communication from Mr. W. H. Quilliam, solici- tor, Lncrpool, with rc-ferenco to an injury Mrs. Arthur sustained to her leg through failing into a hole in the road in Little Sutton, on November 9th, 1902. A doctor had stated that he was doubt- ful if the leg- would ever completely recover. He (Mr. Quilliam) was instructed to recover compen- sation. The Chairman: That has nothing to do with us. It was scat to the Parish Council. The Clerk: And the Parish Council have sent it to us. Mr. WT. Burkey: We have already passed a | resolution that we were not responsible. It v,,as dee d e d ',o as k t h It was decided to ask th Parish Council to for- ward the resolution they had passed repudiating 1 liability. | GREAT SUTTON SEWERAGE SCHEME; 1 A wac read from the Great Sutton Parish C yy complaining that the Council refused to allow Mr. C. J. Lomax to be joint engineer for the carrying out of the sewerage scheme. They oould not understand the opposition of the Council- It had been going- on for years. The Council had for some reason persistently opposed their wishes. The Chairman: At the last meeting the Council empowered the Parish Council to employ Mr. Lomax, or forty Mr. Lomaxes if they lil(ed. We j; don't object. (Laughter.) Mr. Led 'on They would be responsible. The Clerk: I cannot understand your position. They will have to appoint a director to do i the work, and who- Mr. Ledsom: Mr. Priest The Clerk: Then Mr. Lomax cannot have any- thing to do with it. We cannot have two. Tho Chairman said Mr. Lomax was the man who was going to carry out the scheme for the Parish Council of Great Sutton. Ho had got to do it and satisfy the engineer of the Wirral Council ■ that it wad properly done according to the plans and specifications. That was his idea. A Member: Then it will not be long before there will bè friction. It was decided that the Council's engineer get the plans and send them to the Local Government Board. HIGHWAYS COMMITTEE. I The Highways Committee of the District Council met in the afternoon, Mr. Thos. Davies presiding. On the surveyor's (Mr. Thos. Davies's) account a balance at the end of March was reported of while the balance in hand on the treasurer's account had increased from £59 16s. 2d. at the end of February to £ 320 ls. ld. at the end of March. It was decided to write Mr. C. E. Hope, asking him to ha.ve the pipe across his field at Willaston enlarged so as to prevent the flooding of Heath-lane, respecting which a communication was read from the Ilev. Walsham Postance, vicar of Willaston. ESTIMATES FOR THE YEAR. I The estimates for the year were presented and shewed that £ 5,020 was required, which together with a debit balance of £ 75 made a total of £ 5,095. Deducting a sum of £ 620, estimated to be received under the Agricultural Rates Act, a sum of £ 4,475 would have to be provided by the rates. The Clerk said that last year they had taken off a penny of the proposed rate, with the result that they were in a rather bad state financially, at the end of the year.—Several members expressed the opinion that a tenpenny rate would be sufficient, but Mr. Churton pointed out that they were con- tinually having to expend money upon various improvements which could not be foreseen when the estimates were prepared.—Mr. Win. Ledsom, to test the feeling of the meeting, moved that a ten- penny rate be levied.—Mr. John Price seconded.— The Law Clerk strongly opposed the resolution, and Mr. J. R. Turton moved as an amendment that a tenpence-halfpenny rate, as recommended by the clerk, be levied. The Rev. P. C. Robin seconded the amendment, which, upon being put to the vote, was carried by five votes to three. THE IMPROVEMENT OF MOUNT-ROAD. I The Law Clerk referred to Mount-road, and said a misunderstanding had arisen between the High- ways Committee and the Higher Bebington District Council. What the latter authority seemed to think was that the Highways Committee had agreed to do all the work on consideration of a payment of £ 135 or £140. That meant that the committee was to I take all the risk and wait for the money until the whole of the work had been completed. He did not advise the committee to enter into any such arrangement. The meeting resolved that the committee do its own part of the work and no more, and that the Higher Bebington authority be informed of this decision. ?

FLINT TOWN COUNCIL. I -+- The monthly meeting was held' on Monday, the Mayor (Alderman T. W. Hughes) presiding. Letters were read from the Town Clerk (Mr. Hy. Taylor) and Alderman J. L. Muspratt, expressing regret at their inability through illness to attend. I WAEN ISSA FOOTPATH. I A letter from the agent, Mr. Taylor, Coleshill, was read intimating that the owner would either restore the path to its original position or permit it to remain as diverted.—It was resolved that the path remain as at present. PUBLIC HEALTH. I The Medical Officer's monthly report shewed 12 births and six deaths, giving a birth rate of 2'5 per month or 30' per annum, and a death rate of 1'2 per month or 14,4 per annum. The Medical Officer's annual report set forth that the condition of trade had not been satisfactory, work not being regular. This tended to irregularity as to the feeding of large families which i-e-aeted unfavourably on the physique of the children. The deaths numbered 74, giving a rate of 15 4 per annum per 1.000 of the population. This was fairly satis- factory. There were 134 births (66 males and 68 I females), giving a rate of 271' per 1,000. Nineteen cases of infectious disease were notified, which was the lowest for a number of years. Consumption accounted for only three deaths, which was satisfac- tory, but other tubercular diseases caused six deaths. Most of those were tu bercular meningitis. Further improvement was desirable in the matter of scavenging. Attention had been drawn to the unsatisfactory state of some of the courts and some backyards, and endeavours were made to relnedy this by inducing the inhabitants to be more cleanly in their habits. He was glad to observe some diminution in the deaths and cases of sickness due to improper feeding of infants, though there was still much room for improvement. The water supply was satisfactory in the borough proper, though a constant supply would prove a great benetit, and it was hoped that the arrangements at Waen-y-Bails would be speedily brought to a successful issue. MARKET HALL. I On the recommendation of the Finance Com- mittee, it was resolved that the Market Hall be limewashed and painted, and that tenders be obtained, the work to be carried out under the supervision of the chairman, and Messrs. C. E. Dyson, A. B. Lloyd, M. S. Rogers and B. Robeits. —Mr. E. J. Hughes thought the recommendation was not a. correct minute, and that the matter should be referred to a sub-committee to inspect a?d report.—The minute was altered accordingly. OVERDUE RATES. I Mr. E. J. Hughes, chairman of the Financc 1 Committee, stated the debit balance shewn was I ? accounted for owing to the large amount of rate Outstanding. He had endeavoured to get the rate in, but unfortunately i it seemed quite impossible, sotae hundreds yet being outstanding. He hoped the Council would take some steps to remedy the matter in future, as it was very disheartening for a chairman of the committee to be placed in that position. SCHOOL MANAGERS' ATTITUDE. APPEAL TO THE EDUCATION BOAltD. I The Committee Clerk read the letter which had been addressed by the Town Clerk to the various school managers asking that the Co J nc-il might, be furnished with copies ci any app";i;tion made to the Board of Education under section 11, sub-section 3, of the Act, and to which cily cne reply had been received, namely, from the Rev. J. Jennings, of the Catholic Schools, which stated All such matters have, already been ar- ranged, and the Board of Education will give due notice to the local authority of any applica- tion under section 11, sub-section 3." Mr. E. A. Hughes thought the managers of the other schools were not treating the Council in the manner they ought to do in not replying to the letter in the spirit in which it was sent. The Education Board referred the Council to the managers of the schools to obtain the particular information, and so far it had been denied. Tho Department stated that if the information was withheld they would obtain it, and he thought there was nothing to do but ior the Council to place themselves in the hands of the Education Board. Tne Mayor: The Board say in the event oi ;L- formation's being unreasonably withheld. Mr. E. A. Hughes: I take it a month's time is unreasonable. I do not want to run against a gate, or do anything out of place, but would rather deal cautiously. I beg to move that, not having received the information from the several school managers, the Board of Education be in- formed thereof and asked for the necessary in- formation. Mr. R. Harrison said Father Jennings had given the information in a proper manner, and if the others had not done so there was no alterna- tive but to apply to the Education Board. Mr. E. J. Hughes supported, stating the Council were asking for nothing unreasonable. He was rather disappointed at the action of the managers, and on the face of not having received any reply from one lot of managers, the only resource was to apply to the Education Board. Mr. Robert Jones thought the Council need not anticipate any trouble, as there was no great urgency about the matter. The Act would not come into operation until September Oth. The Mayor: It is the date of making a scheme. The Board may make a scheme before the date on which the Act is to come into force. Mr. E. A. Hughes thought Mr. Harrison was under a misapprehension as to Father Jennings's reply. He did not give the Council the informa- tion, but referred them to the Education Board. The resolution to apply to the Education Board was carried unanimously. FREE LIBRARY. I A letter from the secretary of the Libraries Association was read, stating that in pursuance of a resolution passed by the association at Bir- mingham in September last, a draft Bill for re- moving the statutory limit of Id. in the £ had been prepared, and asking the Council to present a petition to Parliament in its favour. The Mayor said the people of Flint felt it very much, the Council having very little of the, library rate except for repaying the loan. In 1905 all loans wculd be paid off, and the Council might i. rate for the Li b ra.ry. then be disposed to fix a ld. rate for the Library. Mr. E. J. Hughes thought the Council ought to support the Bill before Parliament. The extra ?d. would make things more easy for everybody concerned, and place the Library Committee in a better position. He proposed that the Council petition in favour of the Bill and ask the local members of Parliament for their support. Mr. S. Davies seconded, and it was carried unanimously. A PROPOSED THEATRE. An application by Mr. D. L. -Noat-e. Ruabon, to erect a building in the field for a theatre adjoining the Ship and Anchor, Holywell-road. was strongly opposed by Mr. E. A. Hughes and Mr. H. PowelL-The Mayor stated that the County Council had delegated the Council powers to grant there licences. -Major Dyson proposed that the licence be granted.—Mr. R. Harrison seconded, and the resQiution, after discussion, was carried.

RESIGNATION OF A FLINTSHIRE JUSTICES' CLEFK. —On Saturday Mr. William .Tones..T.P.. for i Denbighshire, intimated to the Overton (Flintshire) bench of magistrates his intention to resign liis position as their clerk. Mr. Jones who is over eighty years of age, has been clerk to the Overton j bench for over thirty-four years, and was an intimate friend of the late chairman, Mr. Edmund Peel, with whom he was associated for over fifty years. PRIME MINISTER AND WELSH VOLUNTARY SCHOOLS.—The Hon. G. T. Kenyon, M.P., having had his attention called to a statement in the j Daily News" tha?tMr. Balfour was in sympathy j with the so-called compromise which was submitted to a conference of Churchmen in London on the 24th ultimo, wrote to the Prime Minister on the subject, and received the following reply:— I "10, Downing-street, Whitehall, S. W., April 3rd, 1903. My dear Kenyon,— Your letter of April 2nd. I have expressed no opinion whatever upon the course which ought to be taken by the representa- tives of voluntary schools in Wales in connection with the new Ed ucation Act.—Yours sincerely ■ (signed) Aiiiii-JE JAMES BALFOUK.

..x., >- :Ø -I ';¿& .r .¡ T .<re-' m SunISjfhf Soap Lefbens Life! ■ f Washing in the old way, with common soap, ml its rubbing and scrubbing, takes three times ? as long as the Sunlight way. You waste hours ? each week weeks each year.—Sunlight Soap ? I saves that time! ? LESS <c l.. 2 II You wonder why the clothes wear out too 500no II ? You blame the fabrics instead of the soap. (I ? With Sunlight Soap the clothes 1ast twice as 9 SI long and are always sweet, pure, white. JR| ? No Scrubbing! No Rubbing /I Lever Bros., Ltd., Port Sunlight. Cheshire. 4" ( y ,s;1t.>}<.

DISTRICT COUNCIL ELECTIONS HOOLE. DECLARATION OF POLL MR. WOOLLAM AND THE RATEPAYERS" 1 ASSOCIATION. T ml 1, j-iio result ot tne Pollirig to nil the vacancies on the Hoole Urban Council was declared on Satur- day evening. A large crowd assembled outside the offiecs of the Council in Westminster-road, and shortly after nine o'clock their patieneo was re- warded. The announcement. was made by Mr. A. E. Caldecutt, the returning oiffcer, as follows:- EAST WARD. George Dobson 171 *Thoma.s Woollam 151 Henry Crowdcr. 133 Henry Ellis 100 I The first two were declared clected. 1 WESTWARD. J William ":illin18. 263 I Ric?ard Pinmngton. 189 John Walton 166 •• ine nrst two were declared elected. The asterisk denotes the-re-clection of old members. Mr. William Williams said his first pleasure was to return a hearty vote of thanks to Mr. Calde- cutt, the returning officer, for the very able way l in which he had discharged his duties that day. Ho thanked his electors very heartily for the hand- some way in which they had returned him at the head of the poll. There had been many issues at the election, but the main one had been amalga- mation, and they had shewn what they thought of amalgamation. Hoole did not want amalgama- tion. (A Voice: "We don't, Mister." Applause and laughter.) They wanted to have the privi- lege of spending their own money in their own district, and he thought it reflected very much upon the intelligence of Hoole that they did feel certain they could manage their own affairs in t the satisfactory manner they had done. He thanked all who had supported him. (Applause.) Mr. R. Pinnington thanked all very much for the kindness they had done him in retUrILng him with Mr. Williams, their old friend. He (the speaker) had not got at the head of the poll. He did not expect to, but he felt it a great honour ) to be returned alongside Mr. Williams. Mr. NY'] i liams had told them that the election shewed the j people did not want amalgamation. That battle had not been fought on the amalgamation plat-1 form. The result shewed nothing of the kind. I They were not taking the question that time. They were fighting for the benefits of the district as a whole. He thanked all those who had worked for h<m, the electors who had voted for him, and the gentlemen who had been opposed to him. Through the contest it had been to him a very pleasing time. (Hear, hear.) Mr. Walton thanked the ejectors sincerely for the very hearty support they had given a perfect I stranger among them. He had beaten the record he thought he should get. He hoped he would be among them for a. long time, and he hoped that he would be more successful next time. He thanked his fellow- i workers, who had done their best for him. By next year people would know him better. Mr. George Dobson thanked the electors for the I proud place in which they had put him. He I would have been satisfied to have come after Mr. Woollam. He also noticed that nearly dl the ladies on the register had voted for him. (A Voice: "The ladies' man, and laughter.) They; had won a great victory against amalgamation, i They would have no amalgamation. They would have no dictation. They would manage their own affairs. Mr. T. Woollam. after thanking those who sup- ported him, said he had been a-sked by several of the ratepayers why he had been opposed, as a member wno had already been in. Well, the only answer -I-ic could. give was because he was not willing to come under the screw of three certain gentlemen —(cries of "Nar.-ies")-who want to rule the roost entirely. If he had joined the Rate- payers' Association he should not have been op- posed. (A Voica: "You are right.") What did jo.ning the association mean? It meant going under the thumbs and fingers of three certain gentlemen. He was not like they were at the meeting the other night. He was not afraid of any request to give names. If he could not go into the Council without being under the screw of Humphreys and Crowder—(hoots and interrup- tion)—and if he could not get into the Council without bring free, then he would stop out. lie was glad that by returning him they shewed they approved of the action of tho Council in the past. Air. H. Crowder, who was received with hoots and cheers, could not bo heard at first. He after- wards said he. was an amalgamator, and they (the crowd) would have to. be whother they liked it or not (Uproar.) The policy of amalgamation was what would have to come over the district, and the sooner tho better they looked it in the face. (Hooting.) The sooner the better they went into Chester. (A Voice: "Which road?'' and laugh-; ter.) He did not care whether they liked it. lis was perfectly thankful to the few gentlemen, who had voted for him. Th:y (the Ratepayers' Asso- ciation) upheld a straightforward and honest policy. The previous speaker had not spoken as a man. He had spoken as an unworthy candidate. (Uproar.) The association numbered 200 honest, sound, business-headed men, and the sooner the better those present under the cover of its wings. Mr. Crowder then retired amid a mixture of cheers and hoots. Mr. H. Ellis's appearance was greeted with cries of "Order for a gentleman," "Good old Ellis" and "Ellis is a good man." He said he was extremely obliged to those who had supported him. also to the workers. Ho hoped it would not be his last attempt. It was the second time he had tried, and he had not yet s-icc-i dcd. He told the crowd not to allow amalgamation to lae snoved down their throats as something they could not i swallow. They all knew their own minds, and the whole difference was lOd. Chester had all the advantages for lOd. They did not know what those advantages meant. Mr. Crowder (from behind) Hear, hear. They don't know. They're like the candidates, they don't know. That's right. The uproar that followed this interruption forced Mr. Ellis to leave his speech, unfinished. Mr. E. Noel Humphreys then came forward. He said he should not have presumed to take part any other time at that hour except that his name had been dragged into some remarks that had been made a few minutes before. (Hear, hear.) On behalf of the Hoole Ratepayers' Associ- ation, he denied entirely that that association was guided or controlled or its polity directed by the three aiou whose hod beca. aiaaiioacd. Tho .— ratepayers had all been invited at different times to join the association. It was open to cverv workingman to join. The subscription was is. a year, and they were as proud and glad to listen to the opinions of a. workmgman who would come to the association meetings as they were to listen to the man who would pay half-a-guinea Tl!e-. only asked for fair play. (Hear, hear.) They had all got the good of the district at heart, and those who differed from them they gave credit for honestly differing, and they asked them to give them (the association) credit for honestly holding thoir opinion, .iid striving for the better government and higher welfare of the district. (Hear, hear.) The Ratepayers' Association was quits satisfied with the result of the elections. Last year, he said, was the first- time they had exhibited themselves, and they had carried two seats in one ward. It looked to him as though that time the process of conversion had been temporarily checked in tho one ward, but it had made good headway in the other. They had been successful with two teaia in the East Ward, and now successful in gaining one seat in the West Ward. The trifling animos- ities and irritable feelings that might have been engendered by the election would go by, and the candidates' who had been elected would unite to do what they considered was ior the benefit of the district- (A "That'E r'ght.) In everything good that was brought forward he thought they might rely upon the support of tho Ratepayers' Association, He thanked them for listening to him. (Applaus?.) This concluded the speaking, and the gathering dispersed just as a. heavy storm broke. LOWER BEBINGTON. There were contests in three" wards in this dis- trict, the polling resulting as follows, the asterisks denoting retiring candidates:—Bebington Ward (two seats): Charles Scott, 119; R. L. Wilson, 77 *W. Norman, 60. Park Ward (one seat) Charles T. Williams. 126; W. Sutton, 55; W. E. Morns, 48. Sunlight Ward (one seat): Joseph Wtin- wright, 142: E. D. Turkington, 127. Pool bank *J. H. VYillHms, 73; G. H. Burton, 57. In New, Ferry Ward Henry G. Martin and R. B. Nichols j were returned unopposed. MALPAS I The election of District Councillors for the parish of Malpas took jilace on Monday. The successful candidates were announced at 8.15 p.m namely, Mr. G. S. Morgan, 8(3, and Mr. J. Tomlkwon, 8G. Very little interest was evinced in the election, the comparatively small number of 171 recording their votes only. Mr. S. Richardson and Mr. T. T. Clubb were the presiding officers. WmTCHUIiCH URBAN. Consideiuble int-erest was taken in this ejection, and there was a fairly large poll. There were seven candidates for four vacancies. The only two old members standing for re-election were Messrs Porter and Tuphng. The electorat.e numbers %i)Oij t 1,300, and the number of votes recorded was just over 1,000. The result of the poll was as follows: Maddocks 376, W;lliam Hanmer 334, Geo. H. Tup- ling 204, T. Harris 202, G. A. Porter f51, J. B. Huxley 130, and T. Wrench 112. BUCKLEY URBAN. UNEXPECTED RESULTS. As previously indicated in these columns the degree of public interest manifested in this triennial election was altogether unprecedented in the town of bricks and tiles, and the arrival of the polling day (Saturday) witnessed an increased concern on the part of the elecotrs as to the result. The return- ing officer (Mr. T. M. Keene) appointed the polling stations situated at the Buckley Board Schools, St. Matthew's National School and Bistre National Schools, the presiding officers being himself, Mr. Edwaid Parsonage and Mr. Wm. Bayne. There are practically 1,200 voters on the register, and as 936 votes were recorded it will ho observed that the poll was tolerably heavy. The polling stations opened at noon, but the bulk of the voting was done in the evening, a. fact which taxed the energies of the officials to the utmost. At the close of the poll the three ballot boxes were removed to the Urban Council Buildings, where the counting took place. Shortly before 11.30 the Returning Officer announced the result to a crowd number- ing about 500. the following being the figures William Newton, 538; Jonathan Catherail, 388; ♦George A. Parry, 352; Ralph Williams, 347 *Joel Williamson, 336 James Lamb, 334 Hugh Robt. Williams. 331 Rev. Joseph Davies, 330 Thomas Jones, 330 *Edward Roberts, 328 *Henry Hughes, 328; *Thomas Lindop, 326 .hmes Peter", 323; Peter WiJcock, 290; ?Henry Hayes, 274; Levi Peter Wilcock, ?William Rowlands, 261; Robert T h omas, 2(j5; Wynne, 239 William Griffiths, 235 '?John Dunn, 231; !)Ijolin Jones, 226 '\Iohn Taylor. 225 I ^Richard Griffiths. 217 Richard Merriman Gibson, 160; Thomas Rowlands, 113 Samuel Hughes, 80. The first fifteen were declared elected. There were eight spoiled papers. The asterisk denotes the retiring members on the Council. Thirteen of these soughtre-election, and it will be observed that five of the number, namely, Messrs. Wm. Rowlands, John Dunn, John Jones, John Taylor and Richard Griffiths, were defeated. Two members of the former Council having retired before completion of their term of office, namely, Messrs. Wm. Nunns and Wm. Hopwood, it therefore follows that the new Council will consist of eight of the original councillors and seven members new to municipal life. Another interesting feature is the tremendous majority of votes gained by Mr. Wm. Newton, who is expected to be a valuable acquisition to the Council. 1

MAP OF  STOCKPORT.—The Board of Agriculture desire to srive notice tht the Ordnance Survey have ?'?''tt.tfb'?)'"<! nt"Idtn?;)'?cket"l?puf StOck- port <md the surrounding Ubn(;t on th& s(;,d Gf one inch to the n1ik The map is printed in colours on sheets 18 inches bv 12 inches mounted on canvas, i in a cover, pii-e Tno n.ay in outline with contonrs, the hill features being printed in brown. It is useful for general topographical purposes, and should also prov< • -evv.coablo to cyclists and pedestrians, since it shewn the roads, indicating j their character and whether metalled or not, foot- paths, hills, rivers, tbwn^ vilWe*, railway stations, a.nd local boundaries. Copies of the map may be obtained from the local agents, or through any bookseller, from the Ordnance Survey Office, Southampton. Copies may also be ordered through head Post Offices in towns where there are no agents. TIME TSIES ALL. For over 50 years Hewitt's | Boots have stood the test of time, and are still unsurpassed and unequalled. Abbey Gateway and ue;1; to Music Hall.

i 1 THE MOLD DISCOVERY. 1 ( SAD STORY. Un featurday Mr. F. LJ. Jcnes, eounty coroner, conducted an inquiry at Mold into the circum- stances connected with the discovery of the dead bcdy of a newly-born child in a bedroom at Haled, a residence near Moid, on March 18th. Mr. T. W. Hughes, solicitor, Flint, appeared in the interests of the mother of the child, Ehzabet-h Robeits, who was employed as a housemaid at the Ilafod. Agnes Catherine Proberc, waitress at the Tfafod, deposed to finding the dead body ci alnale child in Elizabeth Hoberts's eedroom. Maude Dalzell, hospital nurse, of Chester General Infirmary, said that on the 18th March she was professionally engaged at the Hafcd. She saw the body. Witness persuaded Roberts to go to bed, and remained with Lw during.tl.e night. Miss Roberts did not seem to realise what bad happened until she was told. Dr. Edwards, Mold, who made a post-mortem examination, said ho was not satisfied that respiration had taken place after birth. The mother gf the child, Elizabeth Roberts, was called by Mr. Hughe. She stated she was 22 years of age, and was the daughter of John. Roberts, of Flint Mountain. She was engaged as housemaid at the Hafod. She did not know what had happened C;, the 18th March until she was told afterwards by the nurse.. The Coroner said tbt. only question was whether Elizabeth Roberts was guiity of criminal neglect. The appearances of this child were quite con- sistent with the i g g, ,on the child Lid no& breathe after birth, if the jurors were satisfied on that point—and on the medical evidence ho thought they were justified in being so—then they would exculpate Elizabeth Roberts from any criminal accusation. The jury returned a verdict that the deceased died through lack of attention at birth.

WELSH IN COUNTY SCHOOLS; ———— IS IT AN ARTIFICIAL DEMAND? On Friday night, at a meeting of the G-overncws of the Carnarvon Intermediate School, Mr. J. Issard Davies presiding, Mr. J. R. Pritchard called attention to letters which had appeared in the Press relative to the teaching of Welsh in the Welsh intermediate schools, and asked how the Carnarvon school stood with regard to the teaching of Welsh. He feared it stood very low. The Chairman said that when Mi-. Trevor Owen was headmaster a few children were taught Welsh. Was there any provision for Welsh teaching now ? Mr. J. de Gruchy Gandin, the headmaster, said that Welsh was taken in the lowest forms when Mr. Owen was headmaster. He did not consider unsigned articles or letters in the newspapers wortI. noticing, but he was now glad of the opportunity of explaining. When he took over the school he asked hiniseif whether Welsh should be taught or not. He j tried it in the junior forms, and more than half the children could not do it. At the end of the term he was informed that it was utterly hopeless. Very few children could write Welsh. Then he made inquiries and found that Welsh was not taught in eight or nine elementary schools in the district, and the boys came to the intermediate school 'ó\M. an indifferent knowledge of English. English and Latin had to be caught together with one other language. Should that he French or Welsh? Look- ing at the failure of the boys under his charge, wh had no knowledge of their own language, he tried to I discover which would be of greater educational value to tl)ei;i-Welsh or French—and he decided that the right course, except in special cases, was the study of a. foreign language- Mr. J. R. Pritchard thought it was deplorable that Welsh boys should come to the county school unprepared in Welsh. In some examinations Welsh stood Oil the same level as .French and higher mathematics, and in order to prove that Welsh was not, ignored by important business corporations, he wished to point out that in one very important wil to point otit t? liat office Welsh was all obligatory subject. The Chairman thought headmaster was pre- pared to «;\e instruction in Welsh if they gfne him directions, and it parents desired that It should be taught. The Mayor of Carnarvon (Mr. W. G. Thomas) asked if the children who car;e from the eieiuentary schools nad been prepared in French. The hi eadmaster 1\0. The Mayor Therefore their French is on a level with their Welsh. I am a;raid that elementary teachers do not take up Welsh as they ought to do. Several school boards have decided that it should be taken up. The Chairman I am afraid the boards are nob, serious enough, and the teachers take advantage of it. A ny pai en £ who wishes- to have his child taught) Welsh am have him taught. Mr. J. Gwyneddon Davies thought that the Welsh people really did not want Welsh taught in the schools and were satisfied with what was done in the Sunday schools Their ruling pas. n was to learn English, though he believed it would be advan- tageous if people got their children to learn g-mm- matical Wcish. This grett cry for learnmc Welsh came fs^m South Wales, where the people ot Cardiff- and other big towns thought they would be better able to fight the battle of life with a knowledge of Welsh. The Rev. Lewis Williams asked whether it would greatly disturb the curriculum if Weish was taken up. Tiie Headmaster Very considerably, but we. should have to try. If I put dcwn Welsh as :t class subject 1 should have more tbn,n hr,lf the parents, writing to me to excuse their children. The Chairman There is really no genuine demand, for tt. The Mayor Except ;1, the newspapers. Tiie Aiayor said he was glad they had au expres- sion I the headmaster that he was prepared, if anyIwdy desired Welsh to be taught, to leach it. ihe Headmaster It ,hall be taught if required.

Tnm TKIKS ALL. For over 50 years Hewitt's Boots have stood the test of time, and are still unsurpassed and unequalled. Abbey ''a'eway and, next to Music Hall. TT ^R-F^DIN'NER Piu.sfor Indi gestion. Flatulence, Habitual Constipation, and Liver and Stomach Complaint*, Is Hod. and L>s.. lid. per box. Pro- prietor, SALIKK, Chemist, Shrewsoury. Lucal A^cuwi, & <„V, The CLUSTER.