Cheshire Observer

CROWDED OUT. t Owing to extraordinary pressure upon our I epacw much interesting new* from our Corres- pondents lias been unavoidably crowded out.

FLORAL BAZAAR AT MOLD. On Wednesday at'teru-jon a. three-days', cfazaar was opened at the To-wti Hail, Mold, Tlic function h.d for its object tho defraying of a debt cfjEl.600 on the Mold County School. The open- 8ng ceremony on Wednesday was performed by Lord K'-nyon who was intiodueed by Mr. Thomas Parry (Llys ifor). Mr. Parry announced tho re- ceipt of tho following io:itrii»'tt:ons :—Mr. Eldor. I'cirJves, £ 5; Mrs. Thomas G-w-, (who wrote ex. press ng regret at inability to open the bazaar ta.t day) £ .50; Mr. W. H. Lever, £ 20 ann M-. Thomas Bellis (1at", of Mold and now of Cape- town), £ 10. He sa.id the total cost of erecting and equipping the new b uldings amounted to over £6,000. and toward > that £ 4,400 hid already bn Ccnrtribiitvd. Lord Kenyon, in an interesting speech, praised the object of the bazaar, congratulated the district upon the possession of so exo^nlent a school, and idlu ded t,) the progress Wales had made in educa- tion. Ho declared the bazaar open.

CHEESE AGENCY DISPUTE. IMPORTANT CASE. Before Mr. Justice Walton and a speeidi jury, at Manchester Assizer on Wednesday, M.-». Catherine Firth, a widow, oar-ying on business at Crock Farm Preston Biook, near Warrington, eousrht to recover f,109 pH^gect to have been paid to Llr- Fletcher Mo-s, threse factor, formerly :n t>u?inc3S in Hanging Ditch, Manchester. Mr. Shee (for the p1 rintiff)-told the jury that in 1892 seme disagreement arose aa to the price of cheese which a Mr Jaekso i had been in the habit of buy ng from the plaintiff on behalf of the d-- fondant. There-upon Mr. Jackson proposed that the plaintiff should fend cheese to the, defendant fttr on commission. He told her the commis- «lcm would oniy b? 2s. p?r cwt., tht)p!?!nt?<f paying carriage. An apre?me?t WM entered tnt? b?tw'?n the plaintiff and Mr. Jackson, acting on behalf of 41i2 defendant, that th- plaintiff should send cheese to the defendant? for the purpose of sale on com- mission on her behalf, the conimissoxi to be 2s. per cwt.. and the plaintiff toO pay carriage. Counsel f,?-cvU-d that Mr. Moss had. retained for „ himself and 4a. more per cwt. as commission. The defence was that trie t«rms were net a* ffated. If rile cheese well sold he was en- titled to extra profit. • Tho, transaction was per- fectly legitimate and had yielded only a profit of a y ar. The hearing was concluded on Thursday. The jury ht;Ici:that defendant or his agentt represented By the notes sent to plaintiff that the prices in them were those realised by the sale of the cheeses. Th"y expressed th e opinion that defendant, in so conducting his business, considered he was entitled to i^ome remuneration hryond the 2. per owt. and carr age and while they considered such a method of. business highly reprehensible, they did not think he intended to act in a fraudulent manner.

DEATH OF A WELL-KNOWN I FARMER. ■ I MR. THOMAS BUTTON, OF FADDILEY. I We regret to announce th", death t,4 a. well- I known Cheshire farmer in the person of Mr. Thc-nias Dutton, lit his residence, Ash House, Faddiley, Nantwich, on Sunday morning, after en iiluess of eight week s. The deceased's faniily •»eas a branch of the Duitons of Dutton, who can trace their lineage back for 33 generations, and flu own particular family had been settled in the Nantwich district as farmers for over a hundred years. The late Mr. Dutton became the tenant of Ash House 54 or 55 years ago, and for j the last ten years has been its owner. He vm-i a thoroughly up-to-date-farmer, and wei famed for Ins cheese, which he always made: on the long keeping system. He was a. successful exhibit* r at the Royal, the Cheshire, and the principal •egru uiiural shows, of tho country. As one of the jnoneers of the Cheshire Dairy Farmer; Associa- tion, he was one of the first to be elected on the council of that body, and was vice-chairman of the local comnnt.ee at Nantwich. He was a. member of the Cheshire Chamber of Agricul- ture. had a seat on its oouriod, and acted as the auditor for a number of years. At the last meet- ing no was re-elected to the position. Mr. Dution was a member of the Cheshire Agricul- tural Society, and had a seat on the committee far some years. He took a prominent part in the Nantwioh Farmers' Club, and tiad acted [to auditor (since its forma.tion. He wa." t: first chairman of the Brindley and Faddiley H hoot Board, and held that position until h- year. He was c-hairmau of the old IN antwich Highway Board at the time its duties were merged into the present Rural District Cquncii. Mr. Dutton was a director of the and North Wale^ Farmers' fiupply As-ociation. A man of musical tastes, for 54 years he led the choir at the Faddiley Wes- leyan Chapel, and celebrated his jubilee by cutting in the new organ at that place of worship. He was promlper. tiy identified with the Nant- wich Wer-ieyac circuit, and acted a. treasurer of the scheme of chapel extension by which six new piaoes of worship were erected in the ccuntry dirf.rict at a cost of £ 7,000. The f'V.eral took place at Anton Churchyard, Kiiiitw.ch, on Thursday.

•i'CTIO^ SALES. fT!XITI;RE AT DARLANO HOUSK. •'loisday Me- Cunaah and Roberts uel:l a. T.osi -i:c <?33ful sale of th- E !K' -I'jna plate, silver, pictures and effects ut r I lo ,-e. 70, Hough Green, Chester, by or o- the executo-s of the late Mb* Bleiock TIi'r" -v? ? large attendance of buyers, and fe-ic 'or :A05t of the lots was ve?- briRk, es- ¡. the- o?Miatin?. "Th {h,vn, C?cd J. ',973, ,1,'(ii w? a verv E? t-xu,.p!? of artist's work, It was ev?u. iiy knockcd cowti to Mr. S. Moss, M.P. The and S.xfBeld plate also cia;nic-I great atten- IJocn all old sdver cream jug malting 20s. peror, pilvcr D.-i 6d. riP!' oz., and table silver up to oz. A fine, c* i i t r,- ¿..> :fJ!1d realised JE6 5s., ketlle and  •tis.nl j 5 50. inkstruid LS 7s. a set of lour Ei. old r:"rc d decanter stands £ 5 10s. There WM-e a number of lots» and th? auctioneer? oi^ratu'atscl on Hn manner in which tlifi -AS conducted.

LITTLE SUTTON. PJ;. s i; ,-u, CCE.>S.—At the recent examination hell at the Philharrrionio Halt (Liverpool) in eon- ne> • •)! 1 i*h the London College of Music, Miss Ct.tT A I..C M was again successful in passing the ser.i :r honours d vi-iion for harmony. Two of /ier nn|ni- were successful, namely. Master Willie Hugh.-s [i Iooton) for tiieory, and Miss Irene CfcVjersl! i .EucoOiere Port) for practical pianoforte Coulter is to he congratulated on Tin: {".¡O:rf.-(;on!)iùeFable damiwge has b<en -cat)- t« • fnut and other orope by the extraordinarily •JK--er.> fro-* which have feen experienced through- ,out th" -rict dunng' the hUer part of Ia'!t wk !M? ?? *int)ir>v of this. ?n many iQst:tnc<? T^ ?* 'f?P?'? ? lum3, peM's. cherries, &. bVv.- w r?7?d.3? teMj?e ako entertained m ciir;ant?, a? goo?er!? The early f.t,r ..ofAt.? have also comp m for a tremendous ?,t of ?u-?e. if they are not entLrely 8poHed Th,. sh(x»t8 of J,ny of the h?rdt?t of  t'?"ts ??- !?n cut off clo? to .he ?.?d bv th.. seventy of the frost, ?mch ai.o  of many of the outdoor flowers to +>,J^ iv. ,tT of many of the outdoor flowers to api': j :1.1", h ? m?th of Apr?. -.vUl ? be KmembeMd for ? law f root,%

MR. HARRY BARNSTON AND I FORESTRY. On Monday evening Mr. Harry Barnston, Crewe Hill entertained the members of the Barnston Court of Foresters and other brethren in the Order at a amoking concert at the Shrewsbury Arms, Frodsham- street. This Court, which was instituted about three years ago under Mr. Barnston's patronage has already made considerable progress in spite of the discouraaing prospect at the beginning, when its membership was exceedingly small, and it now ranks as one of the best courts in the district, as far as rules and regulations are concerned The gather- ing numbered about 60 brethren. and was of a most enjoyable character. Mr. Harry Barnston e-ectipiofi the chair, and among tho-e. oresent were Bros. R Hulse. P.H C.R.: P. Wright, P.H.C.T. H. G. Smith. H. Ashbrook. D OR. and secretary to the court; F. Smith, P.C R (treu-,urer) G. Ash- brook, P C.R. T. Chamberlain, P.O.R. W. Hog-g. C R. J L. Jones, S n R. E. P. Dobson and A. H. Davies, P.D.O.R. J. Owen, R Ashbrook, S. Rprane, D. Williams. H Ellis. Jones, Sewell, Cross. Olubb, Dutton. P.ardsley, Partin, Oliver, Pate, and Smith. The toast of The King was lovally drunk at the opening of the proceedings An excellent and varied programme included humorous sonsrs in character bv Mr. John Phillips, Mr. Sydney Sprang, and Mr Sullivan humorous recitations by Mr W. H. Hallmark, songs by Mr. W. A. Hogg, recitations by Mr. W. Goode, and a whistlintr solo by Mr. Hill. Mr. R Thomas acted as accompanist. At the close Bro B. Hulse, in oroposiner a vote of thanks to Mr. Barnston for his hospitable entertainment, said the Conrt bore the name of one of the most honoured families in Cheshire. Mr. Harry Barnston took a deep interest in the Court, and no one was more delisrhted than he to know that it was making considerable progress They were very desirous that that Court which was one of the best in the order so far as rules and regulations were concerned should make special i progress during, the present year, and endeavour to increase its membership to at least fifty. He appealed to the members to make a special effort to bring about that result. The Ancient Order of Foresters was one of the leading friendly societies in the country, whose regulations were pre-eminently commendable from the workinzman's point of view, the highest office in the order being ooon to every member. irrPklpecti vo of social rank. He hoped that the stimulus which Mr. Barnston had given the court that evening by his entertain- ment would result in its increased T)r(*peritv. --The vote of thanks was supported by Bros. P. Wright, A. H Davies. and H G. Smith, and heartily carried, Mr. Bamston's health being cordially drunk with musical honours In responding, the chairman expressed the hope that this would lie the first of similar gatherings on a largrer .scale in the future. The prooetdings concluded with the sing- ingo of the National Anthem and Auld Lang Syne.

LOCAL WEDDINGS. I ——« I NASH-LINNELL. Considerable interest was centred by the in- habit:tm;: of Dud don and Tarvin and the surround- ing- district in the marnag,21 which was solemnised on Thnrsday afternoon at St. Peter's Church. Disddon, between Miss Eleanor Linnell, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs. T. Forester L-nnell, Duddon Lodgq, and the Rev. T. J. Nash, M.A., organising secretary to the, Church of England Tt-mperance Society in the d'ocese of Wakefield, lad formerly curate of Duddon. Both the con- tracting parties are well known and highly ev teemed in tha district, the bride's family having j for many y-;ars been prominently identified with the interests of the parish, while the bridegroom mad e himself exceedingly popular during his curacy at Duddon. Though it was desired that the ceremcny should as simple and quiet as possible, it waa witnessed by a large congregation, who were desirous of manifesting their goodwill %v h o were do%i-(Yis of man: f towards tho happy pair. The Rev. T. J. F.ran3, vicar of the parish, officiated. The bride, who was given away by her father, was gracefully att n'd in a simple whice satin gown with orange blos- fiom and tulle veil, and carried a beautiful shower bouquet of white flowers. She also wore a gold and turquoise brooch, the gift of the bridegroom The only bridesmaid was Miss Theo. I.innell, sister of the bride, who woro a costume of pale blue with black picture hat and carried a shower bouquet of pink and white flowers. Mr. Sam Nash, brother of the bridegroom, acted as best man. After the ceremony a reception was held a.t Duddon Lodge, and during the day Mr. and Mrs. Nash left amid the hearty congratulations and good wishai of their friends for London, where the honeymoon will be spenti. The follow- ing- is a. list of the presents:—Bridegroom to bride. silver toilet mirror; Br de to bridegroom, gold sleeve-1 inks; Father, silver dessert spoons and forks; Mother, household linen; Dr. J. E. Linnell, silver Burmese bowls; Dr. and Mrs. Garfit, silver toast rack; Miss Nash, silver teaspoons; Mr. and Mrs. T. Hutching, silver apostle spoons; Mrs. das. Tomkinson, gold and turquoise curb bracelet; Mr. R. E. Tomkinson, cheque; Mr. W. J. Nash, I ohequi*; the Rev. C. Chambers, cheque; Mrs. Nasn Giasson, Athlone, work table: Miss Nash, eiderdown qum; I)r. and Mrs. Payne, silver butter dish and knifo; Mrs. Bigley, cheque; Mr. H. E. Sparrow, silver muiffneers; Mrs. Daunt, silv-r photo frame; the Rev. and Mrs. Hutton, framed engraving; 'Dr. and Mrs. James Earl Moreton,mlver breakfast dish; Dr. and Mrs. T. W. E. Moreton, silver sauce ladles; MN. W., Lowe, framed Irish views and two pictures; Mrs. Wyndham Smith, china toilet set; Mrs. Herbert Cooper, silver and blue muffineers; Miss B. Lin- nell, water-colour picture; Miss Linnell. large bed- spread; Mr. Dick Linnell, table centre; Mis3 Theo. Linnell, silver cream jug; Mr. and Mrs. T. C. Garfit, aoent bottle; Miss Sherwin, silver brush and comb; Annie Roberts, brass crumb brush and trey; the Rev. B. N. Atkinson, two books; Mrs. Hall, afternoon teacloth; Miss Hal!, sliver clasp buckle; Mrs. Walker, tray cloth; Mr. T. Rowland copper kettle; Mr. and Mrs. Hughway, butter knife, pm spoon and pickle fork; Mrs. T. Gresty, glass dishes; Mr and Mrs. W. Crimes, jur.r glass sugar basin and cream jug; Mr. J. Marshall Brooks, silver cake basket; Mr. and Mrs. Watts, oak clock the Rev. C. Garnett, table silver and pair muffineers; Mi3s Isabella McCormick, sni7?,Il clock; M.ss McCorm ck counterpane; Mrs. and Miss Carter, oak afternoon tea tray; Mr. and Mr. Arthur Linnell, brass hot water jug; Messrs. C H. and F. F. Linnell. brass hot water jugs; Mrs. T. Rowland, chcese dish; Miss Mary Rowland, fruit dish; M rs. Holding, two pickle jans; Mrs. Vitt Smith, set. of cutlery; Mrs. Leach, fcilvor teapot; Miss A K. Leach, silver, sugar bn-zm; Miss Marjory Leach, cream jug; Mr. and Mrs. Macree Oliver, serviette rings; Mr. Frank Batterv-y, serviette rings; Mrs. J. Henry table oentre; Mrs. and the Misses Lino, silver fish carvars; Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Bet at, silver fish knives and torks; Mr. Robert Smith, Axminster carpet; MJ:" and Mrs. Arthur Potts, pair copper trays; Mr. arid Mrs. Prescott, silver coffce pot. j I nLLER-BARRETT. A v"ry interesting wedd ng took place at Nekton Parish Church on Wednesday afternoon, the bride being Miss Ruth Barrett, younger daughter of the late Rev W 5\ Barrett, M.A.. of |C endngton Grammar School. London, of Mostyn House School. Parkgate, and senior curate of Ncston, and the bridegroom Mr. Alexander Thomas Miller, eldest son of Alexander Allen Miller, of Liverpool. A large number of spectators gathered in the vicinity of tho Church House, the residence of the bride's mothfM. and lined the rotite. to the churoh entrance. A oongregaton of fuily four hundred persons gathered in the church. Th,, building was very beautifully decorated for the occasion by the Misses Ha-rno-Lvi Banner. of Ashfield Hall. The marriage took placs at 1.50, and the service was fuliy ohon-i, o¿?!ling with the hymLl. "At Thy feet, 0 Ch,¡t" :md inc:luding th hymn "0. Per-I feet Love" The ceremony was performed by the Rev. Richvd Freeman, M.A., vicar designate of St. Barnabas' Bristol, assisted! by the vicar of Neston, the Rev. Canon Turner. Mr. Edmund Spencer, of Hoylako. acted as best man. Tho congregation joined very heartily in the service. Mr. Charles Ooiiins (Liverpool), an old friend of both families, presided at. the organ, and played several selections, concluding with the '"Wedding I March" as the nappy pa.ir passed down the nave. The sun, which had been overcast during a con- »tderabl3 portion of the day, poured down his all- essential benediction on the newly-wedded par, and merry1 pp<als rang out from tho belfry, and ware repeated at inrYa.ls dunng the day. The bride looked vMy charming in a diT'M of ivory satin trimr-? -.v:th old !acc th? gift of her mo-th('r./ She. wor? a veil and wreath of orange blo-sc ?ad carried 3. bcuquet of white roses and lilies of the valley,, the gift of the bridegroom. The three bridesmaids were M iss Marie Decker and the Misses Nellie and Isabel Miller, sisters of tho I bridegroom, who wore white crinoline hats edged with ecru lace and trimmed with soft saihes of chiffon. Their dresses were of pal,, green, pink, and blue voile. They wore ''Liberty" brooches, and carried bouquets of narcissi and lilioo of the I valley. Mis. W. F. Barrett held a small reception at the Church House after the ceremony L and the bride and bna^groom left early in the afternoon for Paris, where the honeymoon will be spent. I The presents, upwards of 200 in number, were very handsome and useful.

GREAT WP:;TERN "RAILWAY Co.—Alterations in the train service "f the G.W.H. Company are adver- tised. A new train will leAve Chester at '6 5 p.m. (Liverpool Landing-stage at 2-10 p.m.. and Birken- head, Woodside, 2-30 p.m.), and will connect at Shrewsbury with the 4-2¡j p in. express from Shrewsbury to Paddington. Cpsiot's A.S.-IAC'LT CA.SK.—Before the Oswestry County Justices, en Monday, Mr Wynne Corrie, the well-known Shropshire lmlowner, charged one of his employes, William Wilkinson, an electrical engineer, with itteinpting to wound Wm A. Clarke, the estate agent. It appeared that the agent had civen prisonHr notice to ]p?ve, but the m9.n wanted bi? notice in v?ritin?. Mr. Corrie and the a.?-nt went to the engine-house, and ordered him to leave. Prisoner beca-mri very excited, seized a hammer and was about to strike the accent, whereupon Mr. C'orri" o grasped his wrist and held him against the wall. The hammer was taken away from prisoner, and Mr. Corrie then tripped him up. The man was then bound with horse bandage* and placed in a loose box. A doctor who was called in declared him sane. Prisoner was ordered to pay the costs and bound over. BOOTS TO ORDER—not "hand-sewn prin- ciple," but real Hand-sewn, made on the premises by expert workmen in the old-fashioned way with oak bark tanned Leather these are a comfort, walking becomes a pleasure, and the price ts reason- able. -HEWITT" 8, ABBEY GATKWAT, the Old- establiabed Hand-sewn Bootmakers,

DEATH OF MR. LEWIS, M ALPAS i A well known and highly-esteemed Cheshire far- mer and generous neighbour passed away on Tuesday night, about nine o'clock, in the person of Mr. George Lewis, at his residence. The Bank, Malpas. Tho deceased met with a trap accident some twelve months ago, and for some months his serious condition gave rise to grave fears as to his recovery, A strong constitution however, aided h's good progress, and his many friends and neighbours were glad to see him out again. His apparent recovery was however, only of a very brief duration for the deceased's health had evidently been undermined, and at the advanced age of 71 years other and deeper ailments supervened. During the last few months th? invalid suffered much and death had been expected daily for the, pa.4 three weeks. The sad event terminated an active life. Mr. Lewis came to The Bank just over forty years ago, and from that time 111 his illness ho had been engaged in many and varied work, of a publ'o character. He was by nature a publio-spirited. sympathetic and tender-hearted man. and any cause for the benefit of his fellow- oroatures claimed a warm supporter in Mr. Lewis. For forty years. with the exception of a break of three years, deceased had been a prominent mem- ber of the Whitchurch Board of Guardians, and for many years was an active member of the Mal- pas Bur'al Board, as well as a member of the Malpas Rural Sanitary Authority and of tho AmQnt Committee, while up to his death ho was a member of the Malpas Rural District Council. There were several successful com- mercial enterprises with which he was identified, notably those of Messrs. J. H. Billington and Company (Chester) and Messrs. J. Ashworth and Company (Frodsham). of both of which he was their chairman. H s faithful services rendered to tho parish church have extsnded throughout his busy lifo, and many times has he served the office of warden. Indeed, he was one of the retiring wardens this Ea-t;&r. He was associated with all the more important church improvements and restorations that have taken place during the last decade. Mr. Lewis gave with an open hand to those in distress, and the Malpas Rose Club had a no more ardent supporter. Many of the im- pqrtant reforms in that society were aided to, successful issue by his magnanimous spirit. To the last he was one of its auditors. As a dairy farmer, he was among the foremost, 1 and had evolved his extensive holding into a high state of efficiency. As a good neighbour and kind master he w 11 be missed. His good nature. was proverbial. A singular coincidence is that one of his oldest servants, John Caveney, who had been pensioned in his old age a few years ago Jby Mr. I Lew is. died at nearly the same time as his master, at the age of 75 his oft repeated wish to die when his master died bsing fulfilled. In expressing his opinion in public debate or in private discourse, tho deceased's convictions were always fearlessly expressed. The deepest sympathy is expressed by a wide circle "of friends towards Miss Lewis in the loss of her much-esteemed brother. The funeral took place at 1.30 on Friday afternoon, a service at Malpas Church preceding the interment in the cemetery.

BOARDS OF GUARDIANS. WIRKAL. The annual meeting of the Wirral Board of Guardiam was held on Wednesday at Clatter- bridge Workhouse. There was a large attendanco of members—The Chairman (Mr. W. Knowles) proposed Mr. Charles Morris, the present vice- chairman, be- elocted chairman for the ensuing year. Mr. Morris had been a member of that Board for upwards of twenty-three years, and had occupied the vice-chair with distinction and to the satisfaction of everybody. (Applause.)-Colonel Lloyd saconded, and spoke of the excellent and valuable services of Mr. Morris. He endorsed what the chairman had said.—The proposition was unanimously agreed to, and in thanking the Board Mr. Morris said they were all aware that in the future the chairman would retire annually, and therefore would not be eligible for re-election as had been the case in the past. He personally was of opinion that a change should be made, because he thought .t was nothing but right that all the members should have a turn.-Mr. T. Davies said he had very great pleasure in proposing that Col. Lloyd should bo vice-chairman He was an old and tried member of the Board, and everybody ha.d the greatest confidence in Colonel Lloyd.— Colonel Lloyd thanked the Board for the honour they had conferred upon him. He would en- deavour to. fulfil his duties faithfully.—Mr. Earl proposed a vote of thanks to the retiring chairman. and referred to the able and energetic manner in which Mr. Knowles had presided over them for the past quarter of a century. He had always re- ta ned the confidence of his fellow mern bors. Mr. Turton seconded, and the motion was heartily accorded.—Mr. Knowles responded.—Tho election of committees followed. and a vote between Col. Lloyd and Messrs. H. A. Latham and C. J. Townsend for the chairmanship of the House Com- mittee resulted in Mr. Latham's being elected. WHITCHIJU'H. ANNUAL MEETING. n At the annual meeting on Friday Mr. W. U. Smith proposed the re-election of Mr. R. P. Ethelston as chairman of the Board for the enduing year, and in doing so referred to the impartial and courteous manner in which the chairman had disoharged the duties of his office during an almost unprecedented term of ofifce, and also to the kindly feeling he had shown to tho members generally. The busine6s of the Board had always been conducted in a smocth and pleasant way, and they could only hope that their chairman would long be spared to occupy the chair of this Board. (Applause.) Mr. Woollam seoonded, endorsing all that Mr. Smith had said, and the motion was carried with enthusiasm. The Chairman, in replying, said he had extremely great pleasure in accepting office, and was deeply grateful to the members for the way in which these kind and flattering remarks con- cerning himself had been rece.ved, also for the kind vote of thanks that had been accorded him fO' at the last meeting. It was the duty ot the onair- man to attend every meeting, if possible, in order to keep himself thoroughly in touch with the businoos of the Board and this applied not to the ohairman alone, but to every member. (Hear, hear.) He regretted that he had not been able, reoently, to givo ao much attention to the duties as he would like to have done, but so long as he continued to be their chairman he should do all that he could to deserve the kind feeling that had been shewn towards him. (Applauie.) He was sure, however, that on occasions when he was unabla to be present the duties would be most admirably carried out by their esteemed vice- chairman, Mr. Langley. (Applause.) Mr. G. S. Morgan proposed the re-election of Mr. Langley as vice-chairman, and spoke of the regular attendance, the business capacity, and the courtesy with which that gentleman had always devoted himself to the best interests of the Board, whether in the chair or in a private capacity. There wa, no gentleman better qualified for such m office, and he was expressing the feelings of the whole Board in hoping that Mr. Langley would be prevailed upon to again accept office. (Applause.) Mr. Godaal seconded, and said that though he had not been a member of the Board for a groat length of time, he had nevertheless had frequent opportunities of finding out Mr. Langley's ability, and he was sure that the business of the Board oould bo entrusted in no better hands. —The motion was carried with acclamation, and Mr. Langley, in replying, said he was deeply appre- ciative of what had. been said, although he felt he had done very little to merit it. He had had the privilege of being a member cf that Board for 37 years, and there was only one gentleman in the room (their valued and kind-hearted chairman) who was in the room when he first entered it. Two other members also- remained, but both were absent on this occasion—Mr. Topham, also Mr. Lewis, of Cuddington, who was now lying on a bed of sickness, suffering from a serious malady, and had their deepest sympathy. (Hear, hear.) One of the great reasons the busi- ness of the Board went on so smoothly and amicably was that the unanimous support of the Board was always acoorded to the chairman. (Appiauqe.) During the appointment of committees, Mr. W. H. Smith said he would like to take the oppor- tunity of joining in the sympathy which had been expressed by the vice-chairman in reference to Mr. Lewis. This gentleman (with one break of three years, he believed) had been a member of tho Board for a great number of years, and had rendered very great assistance in that capacity. As a kindiy act, he proposed that the Guardians express their sympathy with the sick and suffering member to whom he referred. The Chairman seoonded and Mr. Morgan sup- ported, remarking that although he had eome- times differed from Mr. Lewis, they had learned of late years to agree, to differ; he sympathised very deeply with Mr. Lewis in his suffering. (Hear, hear.)-The motion was carried. In reference to the School Committee. Mr. W. H. Smith said that in so far as the Shropshire section was ooncerned. they would have very modified powers, and perhaps eventually none at all; for Cheshire and Flintshire, however, t'" e power of the new Act had not yet been adopted, and it w-culd therefore be iic-co-ary for them to re-elect tho committee, for the present time at any rate. Speaking en the Technical Committee, the same speaker said it would be necessary to re-elect this committee, but the Techn-cal Com- mittee of the County Council had asked each individual member to remain in office for the present.

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THE PRINCE OF WALES. VISIT TO EATON CANCELLED. 1 We are authoritatively informed that the whole arrangements for the visit of the Prince and Princess of Wales to Eaton for the Race Week have been cancelled Everyone will regret to learn that the cause is' the illness of the Duchess of Westminster. Her Grace has arrived in Paris, but her medical advisers will not allow her to entertain a party. We are assured that there is nothing alarming in the condition of the Duchess, but the doctors are of opinion that she has not sufficiently recovered to permit her to entertain. The Duke, we understand, has tele- graphed to the Prince of Wales regretfully putting off the visit, and to all the guests.

A FOUR-LEGGED CHICKEN. REMARKABLE FREAK. Mr. Thomas Thomas, of Queen's Ferry, was greatly surprised the other day to discover that one of his hens had hatched an extremely aberrant chicken. The bird in question is not only possessed of aa additional pair of legs. but also the accompanying bones of the lower vertebra, the whole structure arising from the lower or ventral margin of the sternum or breast bene, and hanging suspended from it by a thin cartilagenous substance. The supernumerary legs were unusually well developed, but were more slender and about half an inch shorter than the normal pair. They were so placed that they faced exactly in the opposite direction to the normal pair, the toes of all the legs meeting at abcut the centre of the line of gravity. In life the bird would have no power of locomotion in the supernumerary limbs, and the probabilities are that had the bird lived these organs would have become more or less atrophied, or more deformed than they are now. Four-legged chickens are by no means. infre- quently met with, and it is only a year or so ago that one was recorded from Cheshire which had five legs. In t-he majority of instances the super- numerary legs are placed behind the normal pair, and the toes of all the legs pcint in the same direction. In suoh cases as these one finds on dissection that the supernumerary limbs are attached to the vertebra—that there is as a rule a branched or double backbone arising from the region of the hips. Every possible degree of fusion of separate embryos may, however, occur, resulting in a. great "Variety in the shapes of the monsters produced. Thus they may have a double head or trunk, or two otherwise complete bodies may be attached by an external bond, as, for instance, in the Siamese twins. Much more frequently, however, but imperfect relics of the one remain attached to or fused with the fully developed structures of the other. The life of a deformed animal, in the majority of cases, is very short, often of a few hours' duration; but those possessing malformed limbs or supernumerary parte may live for many years, while brainless or headless monsters are inviable, or incapable of sustaining independent life. The writer has seen an adult barndoor fowl with four legs, and also a horse with eight legs; and those who visited Barnum and Bailey's Show may have seen a man exhibited therewho possessed fcur legs. The supernumerary limbs in the last-mentioned case were attached to the sternum, practically in the same manner as those in the chicken which was reared by Mr. Thcmas. The causes which produce such deformities are, as a rule, not very easily traced, but are probably duo to the fusion of one or more embryos, suoh, for instance, as a double-yoked egg. In the ombryo chicken Parnum found that deformities oould be produced by varying the temperature of the hatching apparatus and varnishing the egg-shells; while Dareste dis-oorered that a like result occurred if the eggs be placed vertically instead of lying on their sides: and Gerlach, by varnishing the who e surface of the egg with tho exception of a Y-shaped streak on one side, succeeded in producing a double-bodied chicken. R. N.

UNIQUE BANKRUPTCY APPLICA- TION. A FLINTSHIRE MAGISTRATE'S AFFAIRS. At Chester County Court, on Thursday, before his Honour Sir Horatio Lloyd, Mr. W. S. Holden, solicitor, Liverpool, applied for an order for the annullment of tho bankruptcy of the late Mr. Adam Eyton, J.P.. of Llanerchvmor. He ex- pia npd that Mr. Eyton was a gentleman highly respected in the county of Flint, and unfortunately owing to his connection with the Talacre Mining Syndicate, for whose debts he became liable, he was adjudicated a bankrupt. The adjudication took place in 1902, and shortly afterwards Mr. Eyton obtained his unconditional discharge. A d vidend of 17s. 51d. in the £ was paid, and since then the Official Receiver had been placed in funds to pay the entire balance and interest. The widow and the son wished this annullment to be mad?. The Official Receiver (Mr. Ll. Hugh Jones) said the application, so far as he knew, wa3 absolutely unique. It was a case in which there was not the slightest suggestion 'made against Mr. Eyton. in connect-on with his bankruptcy. He obtained an unconditional discharge, and had since died. Although it was true a further sum had been paid out of assets that had been accidentally discovered, the application originated in the desire of the widow and son to clear Mr. Eyton's name from the bankruptcy. The application, in the h;hest? Mnse, wag creditable to tho?e who made it, and he had very great pleasure in supporting it. His Honour: Lot it b? so.

HA WARDEN PARISH ELECTORS. I THE BURIAL GROUND QUESTION. I CONNAH'S QUAY EXTENSION OPPOSED. I A largely-attendefl meeting of parochial electors was held at the Girls' School on Wednesday. The object, of the meeting was to take into con- sideration the burial ground accommodation and the advisability of adopting the Burial Board Act. It was also proposed to oonsider the question of the extension of the boundaries of tho Connah's Quay Urban District Council and to adopt resolutions relating thereto." The Chairman (Mr. Thomas Wright) stated that in the first instance a communication had been received from the rector and churchwardens that the present burial accommodation both at Hawarden and Broughton were inadequate. Various meetings had been held, and a com- mittee, consisting of representatives of the parishes of Hawarden, Sealand and Sidtnpy, had been formed, and had discussed the matter. Their feeling was that there should be one central burial ground at Hawarden, and, if pos- sible, the present ehurohyard at Hawarden should be extended. The rector and church- wardens were invited to one of these meetings, and it was explained that the suggested extension of the present churchyard was undesirable from a sanitary point of view. It was also suggested that a portion of the field belonging to the Ash Farm might be available if the estate trustees were willing to sell. This they consented to do at JB175 per acre. With regard to the Broughton extension, the agent to Mrs. Johnson quoted the price of JE200 per acre for a field adjoining the present burial ground. Mr. Wright said that the present meeting had been ca:Ied for the purpo e of ascertaining the opinions of the parishioners, also, if thought desirable, to adopt the Burial Act, which had already been done at Sealand and Saltney. Mr. John Wright (Mancott) said a burial place was a. necessity, as it seemed out of the question to enlarge tho present churchyard. The Deputy Clerk (Mr. T. H. Haswell) read the portion3 of the Burial Act bearing on the que tion. The Rev. Richard Jones (Mancott) remarked that they must have a new burial place, and it shou d be in the best possible position, but they must remember that if they adopted the Act that evening they might be signing away their powers. He would like to see a scheme drawn up first, so that they could see exaotly what wa] going to be done. After further discussion, Mr. D. Jones pro- posed that the Burial Act be adopted. Mr. J. H. Adkins seconded, and stated that in his optnion the adoption of the Act would not bo found burdensome to the ratepayers. Cemetery companies- which were managed on proper lines generally pad good dividends, and the profits made thereby would relieve tho rates. Mr. J. Wilcock (Hawarden) proposed as an amendment that the meeting bo adjourned, so that the matter coul d be further considered. I his was seoonded oy Mr. Kooerts. Afrer some discussion, in which Messrs. E. Sydney Taylor, W. Morris, J. H. Wright. t.ho Rev. J. Davies and Dr. Burlingham took part, Mr. Jones withdrew his resolution, and the amendment of Mr. Wiloock was carried. The clerk was iistr-ycted to draw up a, scheme shew- ing estimated cost of new burial ground. The meeting then considered the proposed ex- tension of the Connah's Quay Urban District Council's boundaries. Mr. Haswell said the question was whether a portion of the parish having a high ratable value was to be cut away, and the parishioners as a whole were asked to express their opinion cn the matter. Dr. Burlingham proposed and Mr. D. Jones seconded the following resolution:—" That in the opinion of this meeting the proposed exten- sion of the boundaries of the Connah's Quay Urban District Council should be vigorously opposed." This was carried unanimously.

Boys' Suits in all the latest stylea. Javenile Clothing a speciality. See Bradley's windows, Foregate-street, corner of Seller-btreet,

Umbrellas Re-covered and Refinished equal to new. Ladies' or Gent's, with the B E M Silk, 3/6 to 3/9 each, and at all prices from 1/11 to 12/6.-BradI6Y's. Foreyate-str<>et. Chester EATON PAKK VANI)AL" We regret to learn that depredations are again being made in Eaton Park among flowers and plants bv visitors to the grounds, and we shall not be sur- prised to hear of prosecutions taking place. Ladies appear to be the chief offenders. The large number of the public who appreciate and properly use the great privilege of admission to the Park will no doubt bo incensed at the conduct of the marauders, who are either inexplicably ignorant or recklessly malicious. WILL OF Mn. EI)MUN I-) PFvi,. -N.lr. EdTnund Pool, formerly Edmund hthelstone, of Uryn-y-Pys, Ruabon, and of Wallington Hall, Downham Market, Norfolk, J. P. and D.L., who died at Lucerne on the 17th March last, aged 77 years, son of the late Rev. Charles Wicksteed Ethelstone, of Wick^teed Hall, Cheshire and grandson of Mr. Robert Peel, of Wallington Hall, and of Brvn-y-Pys, left estate of the gross value of C59,848 18s., including personalty of the nett value of £ 52,893 7s. He bequeathed to the Bishop of Bangor, acting executor of bis will of the 15th December. 1891, £ 100, and to Sir Herbert Lloyd Watkin Williams Wynn, Bart., and Lady Watkin William Wynn, as g la rdi, "ns of his infant children, JEjO each; and being entitled as tenant for life under the will of his maternal grandfather, Mr. Robert Peel, to the Wallington and Bryn-y-Pys estates, he be- queathed the portrait in chalk of himself by Rich- mond to his son Herbert Wicksteed Ethelstone Peel, or on failllro of this trust, to his son Ernest Ethel- stone Peel; and he bequeathed the remainder of the effects other than horses and carriages and consum- able stores at Wallington and Bryn-y-Pys to his successor in the settled estate, and he left the residue of his property in trust for all of his children, excepting such child as shall succeed to the estate settled by his grandfather. Mr. Peel, on the 19th of November, 1841, or such child as shall succeed to the estate settled by his father, but this exclusion is not to operate against his said son Ernest PRAND'S DINNER PILLS for Indigestion, Flatulence, Habitual Constipation, and Liver and Stomach Complaints, Is lid. and 2s. 9d. per box. Pro- prietor, SALTER, Chemist, Shrewsbury. Local Agents, DONALD & Co., The Urojcs, Chester.

SALE OF WORK AT TARVIN. I On Wednesday an attractive sale of work was held in the Tarvin Schools for the purpose of defraying the cost of important alterations and improvements which have been carried ont in the schools. The principal feature of the work is the extension of the infant schoolroom in order to provide an additional class-room and a new cloak- room. The outside premises have also been brought up to modern requirements. The cost of the improvements is over E200, and to raise the larger proportion of this sum the sale of work had been promoted. A committee, consisting of the school managers and others, were responsible for the organisation of the function, and their efforts were ably seconded by a number of ladies. The staila, abundantly stooked and decorated with greac artistic taste, bore evidence of the painstaking labours which had been bestowed upon them for many days by the ladies. At each end of the large schoolroom were two stalls devotod to dairy produoe, and flowers, which were superin- tended by Mrs. George Gunnery,, Mrs. Alfred Wright. Miss Lily Wright, Miss Veysey, Miss G. Howcroft, and Miss Sbuuock. Three fancy stalls occupied the south side of the room the first was presided over by the Misses Lea (Stapleford Hall), Mrs. Sacre and Mrs. W. E. Lea; the second by Mrs. Evans, Mrs. Moreton and Miss Kingston; and the third by Miss Bull, M;33 E. Dutton, Miss M. Howcroft, Miss Leach and Miss Platt. The infants' school- room was tatefully fitted up as a tea room by Mrs. A. E. Potti (Abbeyfield), Miss Ashmall, Miss Okell (Barrow), Miss Gamon (Chester) and Miss Bailey. Mrs. Potts acted as steward of the tea room. Several oapital auxiliary attractions in- cluded concerts, given afternoon and evening, an entertainment by Professor Wyman, of Man- chester, conjuror and ventriloquist, a baby show, shooting and hat trimming competitions, and a bran pie, in charge of Miss Ruth Evans, Miss Gladys Sacre and Miss Mary Lea. At the concerts enjoyable programmes were contributed to by Madame Georgina Hughes (Flint), Miss Taylor and Miss Hero Taylor (Chester), Miss Wright (Altrinoham), Miss Sherwin, the Rev. E. W. Evans, Mr. Sinclair Jones (Chester), and Mr. R. S. Linnell. The Rev. B. N. Atkinson, Messrs. S. Dean, W. Wilkes, S. T. Williamson and R. Price acted as concert stewards. There was a large gathering at the opening ceremony, which was performed by the Mayoress of Chester (Miss Roberts).-The Vicar (the Rev. T. J. Evans), in a few introductory remarks, explained that the schools had been altered and extended because they were found to be very inadequate for their f e? u the new do- purpose, especially in the face of the new de- mands that would be made upon them under the circumstances in which education was in future to be carried on. It had been thought best to carry out the improvements and then ask the parish- ioners to help to pay for them. The work had been carried out on faith, and he trusted they would shew that the managers' faith had not been misplaced.—The Mayoress then opened the bazaar, and a hearty vote of thanks was accorded her on the initiative of Dr. Tom Moreton, seconded by Mr. Lea.—The Vicar announced the receipt of a cheque for £5 from Colonel Franee- Hayhurst, and the.,sum of JB4 10s. oollected by Mr. S. T. Williamson. The baby show was a specially interesting feature of the various adjuncts to the bazaar on account of its novelty, a strong competition resulting as follows:- Children under one year old: 1. Mrs. J.-Walker's child (Tarvin); 2, Mrs. Parkinson's; 3, Mrs. Joseph Lee's. Children over one year and under two years: 1, Mrs. T. White's (Duddon); 2, Mrs. T. Mort's.

WORTHENBURY. COUNCIL MEETING -The annual meeting of the Parish Council was held on Monday, when there were present the Rev. A. E. Lofts, and Messrs. Hayward, Hopley, Broad, Woodfield and W. R. Urmson (clerk). The Rev. A. K Lofts was re- elected chairman, and a vote of thanks was accorded him for his services during the past year. Messrs. Hopley and Lee were appointed overseers.

ASHTON HAYES. PARISH COUNCIL.-The Parish Council held their annual meeting on Friday.—Mr. Greenway was re-elected chairman and Mr. W. Hignett vice- chairman. Messrs. H Wade and Richd. Lewis were unanimously re-elected overseers.—It was resolved to hold a special meeting on Friday, May let. in order to allow two new members to sigp the statutory declaration accepting office.-Mr. W. Hignett proposed a vote of sympathy with the chairman and his family in their recent bereavement —the loss of his only daughter. Mrs. Ed. Stretch.— All present sincerely acquiesced.

OAKMERE. PARISH REPRESENTATIVES.—The Parish Council meeting was held on Saturday.Mr, Wyndham Smith was elected chairman for the ensuing year. Messrs. William Jones and John Robinson were re-appointed overseers.—The follow- ing resolution was unanimously approved That this Council strongly disapproves of the decision of the Northwich Rural District Council to appeal against the verdict of the special jury in favour of Lord Delamere given at the recent Chester Assizes in the New Park-road right-of-way case, and, is of opinion that such a course of action is contrary to the wishes of the ratepayers of the district and that a. copy of this resolution be sent to the Rural District Council, also to the Attorney-General should the proposed appeal be proceeded with."

NESTON. I WESLEY AN ANNIV ERSARY.—The anniver- sary sermons, in connection with the Neston Methodist Sunday School, wore preached on Sunday by Mr. J. A. Lee, of the Liverpool Wesleyan Mission. A very enjoyable children's service was held in the afternoon, Dr. R. Henry presiding. The musical portion of the services opened with the quartette The Lord will comfort Zion (A. Beirly). The pieces were very well rendered, the accom- panists being Miss Minnie Piatt (organ), Nliss E. Platt (piano), and Mr. William Pltttt (violin). Solos were gi ven by Messrs. Collingwood and Lee in the evening, and solos, recitations, and dialogues I were given by the children in the afternoon. The offertories on behalf of the Sunday schools were larger than those of the previous year.

r SHOTTON. BILLIARD MATCH, -On Wednesday evening the return match between Shotton Institute and Flint Liberal Club was played at the Institute. Shot ton won by the narrow margin of 18 points. CONGREGATION ALISM. On Wednesday afternoon the quarterly meeting of the Flintshire English Congregational Union was held in the Rivertown Congregational Church. Mr. P. M. Williams (chairman of the Union) presided, and I gave an address on "The re-construction and suggested reforms of the Congregational Union of England and Wttloq." The Secretary introduced a discussion on the desirability of all the churches adopting some magazine. It was decided to adopt "The Home Messenger." It was further agreed that the Sunday schools of the various churches should hold a conference every quarter. In the evening a sermon was preached by the Rev. Griffith Ellis, M.A., of Bootle. The delegates and visitors were entertained at tea in the afternoon, for which a -hearty vote of thanks was accorded, on the pro- position of Mr. Mostyn Williams, seconded by Mr. Petrie. The pastor (the Rev. J. Davies Jones) spoke of the progress of his church.

NOHLEY. PARISH COUNCIL—At the annual meeting on Tuesday, Colonel Lascelles was re-elected chair- man, and Messrs. John Gerrard and William Hough were re-appointed overseers. The appoint- ment of a manager for the schools was deferred for another year. It was decided that the ambulance stretcher be kept at the Temperance Hall. Mr. .John Lewis having resigned it was unanimously decided that Mr. Robert Chrimes be elected to fill the vacancy. CONCERT BY SCHOOL GIRLS. An ex- cellent entertainment was given in the school on Friday evening, and repeated on Saturday, by the girls of Norlev school. The programme was capi- tally carried through, and consisted of songs, scene (" Flowers") by a group in representative costumes and songs, Hindoo maidens, tableau ("Dirty Boy") scene ("Old Age"), sketch ("Five o'clock tea"), scene (' Nations"), group representing Greoan, Spanish, Italian, and British tfirls, final chorus, and "God Save the King." Much credit is due to Miss Sumner. who organised the entertainment and superintended the carrying out of the programme, also to those who assisted her in bringing it to such a successful issue. The precision and gracefulness of the evolutions shewed that ni!icli patiencetnd care had been bestowed in their preparation. Mr. Sumner presided at the piano, accompanied on violins by Miss Yearsley and Masters Walter and Wm. Sumner. SLEIGHT OF IIAND.-Ori monrlny("Venitigin the Temperance Hall, Mr. R. Lascelles gave a conjuring entertainment. The first part consisted of many clever tricks of legerdemain. In the interval some of the newest selections on a large concert graniaphone Were given and gave great delight to the large audience with which the hall was literally packed. The interval over, the Great handcuff i mystery" was proceeded with; Mr. Lascelles being handcuffed with five pairs of hanchiuffs, ineluding; one pair brought by the police-sergeant. In a very short time he freed himself from the whole, without having any key Tho handcuffing to a horizontal, bar was next witnessed, this demonstration being given by Mr. Mitchell, a friend of Mr. Lascelles. In 2g minutes ho freed himself The last iteiii was that of being handcuffed and locked up in a box. In the short space of 30 seconds Mr. Mitchell appeared before the audience, and Mr. Lascelles bad taken his place in the locked box. The audience were quite of the opinion that the entertainment was the i best ever given in Norley, and that it would be difficult to eclipse Mr. Lascelles. Colonel Lascelles presided. At the close the Rev. A. P Reynolds (vicar of Kingsley) proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Lascelles, which was heartily acoorded. The pro- ceeds will be given to the fund for the improvement of the Delamere Station-road.

BURTON. I CAPTURE OF AN OTTER.—A fine malo otter wiis shot on Mr. T. Tickle's farm at Dunatan on Saturday. The animal weighed 141b. and measured 4ft. 2in. in length.

SANDYCKOET. I PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHAPEL.-On Sunday, anniversary services were held at this Chapel. Mr. W. Williams, of Hawarden, preached in the morning, and the pulpit was occupied in the afternoon and evening by the Rev. J. E. Storey, of Hawarden On Tuesday evening, the Rev. J. Davies Jones, of Rivertown, delivered his popular lecture, "The Pilgrim's Journey to the Celestial City." The lecture was illustrated by limelight views, Mr. Walker manipulating the lantern.

SAUGHALL. I PARISH MATTERS -The annual meeting of the Parish Council was held in the Town Hall on Monday evening, there being present Messrs. Geo. Nicholas (who presided in the absence of the chair- man), Robert Foulkes, John Mawby, H. O. Maddock, George Speed, T. Crump, Samuel Hughes^ and W Duckworth (clerk). Messrs. John Balf and Geo. Nicholas were unanimously re-elected chairman and vice-chairman respectively for the ensuing year. Messrs. George Ellis and W Stephen were re-appointed overseers for another year, in order that they might finish off the work of the revision of the valuation list, which had been ordered by the Assessment Committee of the Chester Union. The Clerk presented the accounts. There had been no extraordinary expenditure during the year, the total expenses only amounting to jEl ICa. 8d., leaving a balance in hand of £ (> 15s. 2d. This was considered very satisfactory, and the accounts were adopted.

BICKLEY. MAD BULL.—On Monday, while a bull be- longing to Miss Morris, of Heatherstone Green, was being taken to Wrenbury auct on, the animal became restive, and was with the greatest difficulty driven to Wrenbury village, where it became so furious and dangerous that it had to-be shot. This, however, was not accomplished without much trouble and n&k. The bull was a valuable one, and the owner will sustain a considerable loss. PARISH MEETING.-The annual assembly Y/ lif,ld at Bickley Town on Thursday evening, when a statement of the parochial charities was submitted by Mr. T. T. Wilson. Statements of the disbursement of the rectorial charities were also supplied by the courtesy of the Rev. E. F. Gorst, vicar of Bickley, and the Rev. LI B. Vawdrey, vicar of Tushingham. Mr. Evan Langley, was unanimously re-electcd chairman of the Parish Council, guard:an of the poor, and member of the Malpas Burial Board; and Messrs. ¡ George Shenton and William Hughes were ap- pointed overseers.

CHOLMONDELEY. ENTERTAINMENT—A most successful en-! tertamment was given at Cholmondeley Schools on Tuesday evening, in aid of the funds of the choir of St. W ene'frede's Church. The room was crowded to overflowing, and a substantial sum was realised. Among the audience were Mrs. Gran- ville Farquhar, Mr. and Mrs. St. John Charlton, the Misses and Master Charlton, Mis" VioLt Main- waring, the Rev. E. F. and Mrs. Gorst, Mrs. R. P. Br as soy and party, etc. The programme was as followsHumorous glee. "Dickorv, Dickory Dock" (G. B. Allen), Masters Welch, Flack, T. and C. Lanceley, Messrs. C. Hopley and Hoi ken- hull; duet, "Friendship," Mrs. and Miss Charl- hull; duet, W i d dleoiilb(, F a r, ton; song, Fair," Mr. George Hop- ley (encored); song, "When the Birds go North," Miss Violet Mainwaring (encored) song (comic), Mr. Harrison (encored); song (in costume) "The Sunflower and the Sun," Mrs. Charlton and chorus (encored); song, "A May Morning," Miss Violet Mainwaring; song (comic), Mr. Harrison (encored). A laughable farce, entitled "Popping the Question": Mr. Primrose, Mr. Bird; Ellen Murray (his ward), Miss O. Brassey; Henry Thornton, Mr. N. Brassev; Miss Eiffin and Miss Winterblossom (two old ma d z) Mrs. Bird and Miss C. Brassey; Bobbin (Ellen's maid), Miss M. Brassey. "God save the King." Where all the performers were excellent it would be invidious to, scilect any for special mention. The blending of the colours of the costumes worn for Mr;. Charlton's song, "The Sunflower and tho Sun," made an exquisitely pretty scene, and a new de- parture was made in the introduction of the laughable farce, "Popping the Question," as the second portion of the entertainment, which was much appreciated. The characters wore well sus- tained and the applause was loud and prolonged from first to last. Considerable trouble had been gone to in the mount ng of the piece, and the stage front was prettily decorated with palms and I flowers from Cholmondeley Castle gardens.

MALPAS. j COUNCIL'S ANNUAL MEETING-The an- nual meeting of tho Malpas Parish Council was held on Tuesday night. There were present Messrs. J. Tomlinson (who pres ded in the ab sence of the chairmin), F. Battarbee, G. S. Mor- gan. R. Reeves H. T. Hesketh, d. W. WychcrIey. i J. Eaton, J. Huxley, and W. Bentley Mr. Danily was unanimously re-elected chanman, and Mr. J. loml nson was re-elected vice chair- I man, for the coming year —Mr. J. Eaton stated that he bad seen Mr. Danily prev ous to tho meet- ing, and ho expressed his regret at his inability i to attend the annual meeting Ha was always 1 pleased to be with them at their monthly mcet- ing-s. and trusted that he would be able to con- tinue to do so. (Applause.)—Mr. Leigh Weaver, farmer, Malpas, and Mr. Jno. Hughes grocer, Church-street, were appointed overseers. The Rev. the Hon. A. R. Parker and Msssis. G. S. Morgan and F. Battarbee were re-appointed to serve on the Joint Burial Comra'ttee. The Street Light.ng Committee elected were Messrs. F. Battarbee, J. Huxley and H. T Hcsketk A snb-ixjiiii/i.tiee were appointed to deal with the Moss Land tene- ments, namely, Messrs. F. Battarbee, R. Reeves and J. Tomlinson—Subsequendy the meeting resolved itself into a parochial committee —Mr. J. Eaton stated that he had completed the water main along Hall-street, but there wi; one hydrant he was having made. The work had Icon thoroughly carried out, and he was prepared to give a five. years' warranty. i

I ROSSETT. I THE FROSTS.—The. unusual weather Jfe re- ported to have sorousiy affected tne fruit pros- pects, oven pears, which are known to be exceed- ingly hardy, being much damaged. One farm has had several acres of potatoes destroyed. BURTON PARISH COUNCIL.—The annual meeting was held at Ro sett Schools on Monday evening, Mr. J. Thorley Sykes presiding.—Mr. G. R. Sandbach proposed the re-election of Mr. Sykes as chairman.—This was seconded by Mr. Babb, supported by Mr. Frith, and c:rtied unani- mously.—Mr. Babb was again elected vice- chairman. Air. Babb and Mr. Edwin oones were re-appointed overseers. The chairman, Mr. J. N. Fr:th and Mr. Edward Prc" were again selected to serve on the joint committee relating to parochial ebarit 'oz,Tlio Chairman called atten- tion to tho excessive speed motorists were accus- tomed to travel through the neighbourhood, an opinion which all present fully endorsed.—Mr. Babb moved the following resolution:—"That the attention of the' DenbiJ:hsh:re County Counct be called to the excessive speed at which motor-cars and cyclists travel upon the public roads; that they- be asked to take some steps to regulate their speed and compel them to cirry some number or other distinctive mark -The motion which wa& seconded by Mr. Frith, was approved. ALLINCTON PARISH COUNCIL.—At the annual meeting, on Tuesday. Captain Griffith- j Bocaw{'n was re-elected chairman and Mr. Cromar ) as vice-chairman. M?ssrs. Thomas Parry and Thomas Eardley. junr.. were appointed overseers, Th, Allotment Committee were re-elected while the following were choaen as representatives upon the joint committee relating to tho cha,rities:- Messr5. J. Hastings, J. Hughes and S. Williams. i —A lengthy discussion took place with regard to the erection of iron hurdles, co.st'ng about JE40, the expense be:ng defrayed from funds belonging to tho charitics. Several members asserted that the trustees were in no way justified in this ex- penditure.—A resolution to this effect was passed, and the clerk was instructed to forward it to the parochial charities t-iit.pt-g.-Thc- Chairman of the rig (Mr. Cromar) said the education rate would probably commence in October, and would be 2d in the j3. With regard to the proposed new police, station, he regretted to have to say that the account relating to this had that day' (Tuesday)'passed the Finance Committee, the Clerk stating that they wero bound by the action of the j Standing Jo'nt Comnvttee. H- was pleased how- j over. to say that their opposition had not been altogether in vain. as a less costly bu lding would be erected —Mr. S. IVill:amg moved a resolution protesting against the speed of automob 11 Ists.- Mr. T. Parry seconded, and stated that motorists sometimps travelled through Lavister at the rate of 30 miles per hour.—Tho motion was adopted.

ELLESMERE PORT. BOWLING CLUB.—Through the enterprise, of Mr. McGarva, a oapital bowling greea has been made during the past few months, and when matured by age the bowlers here oonsider it likely to prove one of the best in the district. The green has been placed under an excellent coiiim.t..oo, and the opening ceremony took place on Tuesday afternoon, when Mr. Demergue. ho.sted, amid cheers, tho fl&g, followed by the two vice-presidents (Dr. Cahdl and Dr. Finny) playing a friendly game. Tea, to which the. seoretary (Mr. Demergue) had invited a number of the chief citizens, was partaken of during the evening, followed by an excellent hot-pot supper. After supper speeches were delivered by Mr. Whitridge (the president), Mr. Atherton (the captain), Mr. Demergue, Mr. Aronsberg, Mr. H. Price, Mr. Platt, Mr. H. C. Jones, Mr. Hamson, and Dr. Finny. Songs were sung by Dr. Cahill, Mr. Hamson, Mr. Joseph Nioholaa, Mr Tom Jones, and Mr. Fcgg, who ably accompanied the vocal items on the piano.

I QUEENS FERRY A CYCLE AGENT'S AFF AIRS.-At Chester CDunty Court on Thursday, before his Honour Sir Horatio Lloyd, Mr. R. T. Morgan, solicit-or applied on behalf of William James Nioholl cycle agent, Hawarden and Queen's Ferry, for his dis- et-arge, in bankniptcy. The Official Receiver (Mr. Ll. Hugh Jones) in his report on the case, said the liabilities amounted to £ 377 16s. 4d., 'l4s the assets, which were estimated at £ 70 and the assets. which were est i mate d at realised £ 34 4s. 9d. A dividend of 8d. in the £ was paid.-Mr. Morgan said the cause of the trouble was defendant's starting business without capital. He lost £100 at Connah's Quay, having in order to meet claims made upon 1 im to have two sales by auction. He had also had consider- able sickness in his family.—Bankrupt, in reply to the Official Receiver, said he was now working for his father-in-law in a cycle shep at Queen's Ferry, and his father-in-law had promised to take him into partnership if he got his discharge. He would be able to pay£30 to his creditors in dx months if he got his disoharge. He would consent to judgment being given asrainst him for that amount.—His Honour granted the discharge subject to tho judgment for JE30. — ♦

TATTENHALL PARISH TEA AND CONCERT.—This annual meeting was held at the Barbour Institute on Wed- nesday, and the proceeds will go to the church repair fund. The tables were prcsid-d over by Mesdames Brierley Bennett, Blake Cooke, Hoi- land. Hutchinson, Hutton, Eaton Jones. Thorley Robinson, Sadler, Whichello, and H. Whichello; and the Misses Orton. Scott, Bennett McWhirter and Ellerton. A programme of musio was con- tributed to by the Church Choir and the Misses L. Brierley, D. Orton, Holland, and the Rev. R. W. Colston, Mr. Brcen and Mr. Reeves. A RECREATION GROUND.—At the Parish Counc 1 meeting; on Monday, Dr. Brierley brought forward the question of a public recreation ground. —Mr. Cooke (chairman) offered twclvo acres of land. to be railed off at the publio expense. Ho would let port ons of it for cricket, Ladies' Club. etc., and he would graze Ït-A committee, con- i sisting of Messrs. Brierley, Bateman, Doulton and i Jones, were appointed to carry out the project.— Messrs. James Morris and Albert Spencer were elected clerk (Mr. Hadfield) was given an increase of ealary-The Rev. C. L. Arnold wrote resigning his seat.

I CONNAHS QUAY. PRESENTATION.—On- Thursday evening a presentation was made to ex-Sergeant Walter Pagan, late of the Flintshire force. Mr. T. B. Bennett handed to Mr. Pagan a valuable cheque on behalf of the licensed victuallers of the district. BAZAAR.—The bazaar and sale of work, which waa opened on Wednesday at the Methodist New Connexion Church, in aid of reducing the debt on their new organ, was again continued on Saturday evening. After all expenses have been paid there will be a balance of £ 107 to go towards the fund. AN INGENIOUS FRAUD.—The other after- noon Mr. Sam Williams, cycle manufacturer, High-street, was the, victim of an ingenious. fraud, perpetrated by a person who is evidently an old hand at victimising tradesmen. It seems that a young man, about 24 years of age, dressed in khaki, entered Mr. Williams's shop and asked for a bicycle to go to the regimental depot at Wrexham to be paid off. He spoke of the recent war. Mr. Williams let him have one of his best. machines. As he did not return Mr. Williams informed the police, but up to the present this individual 113.11 kept out of tho clutches of the law.

I CHKMLETON PARISH COUNCIL.-Tha Council met on Tuesday. Mr. Cullimore was unanimously re- elected chairman, a position he has occupied since the establishment of the Council. Messr-. J. Mociford and J. Atkin were reappointed over- seers for the township. DEATH OF MR. T. WEAVER.-Early on Thursday morning Mr. Thomas Weaver, head gardener at Christleton Hall, passed away at the age of 67 years. The decea ed was of a quiet and retiring disposition, and was greatly respected for his geniality, courtesy, kindne.5S and straight forwardness. He was a native of Christleton, and was appointed head gardener at Christleton Hali over thirty-six years ago. Ho was a highly capable gardener, and "was both esteemed and appreciated by his employer. Mr. Weaver was intimately connected with the Chester Paxton Society, and was one of its presidents. In the I formation of the Christleton Horticultural Society he took an active part, and was always a leading exhibitor at its annual shows, his arrangement of a group of plants being a groat attraction. In the years 1893-4-5 6 he held the office of church- warden, the duties of which he carried out in an exemplary manner. The beautiful flower borders at the west entrance of the churchyard were laid I out by him, and under his direction have been thoroughly well kept. He leaves a son and four daughters, with whom much syrnpathy i, felt The funeral takes place at Christleton Church to-day (Saturday).

I TARPOHLKY SEWERAGE SCHEME -Tho Sewerage Com- mittee met on Thursday to. consider the tenders l'c-, eivc,d.-On the motion of Mr. Gordon, seconded by lr. Spendlov(' it was resolved to send the lowest tender, that of Mr. A. J. Cottle, Stockport. to tlO .Mr. Baldwin Latham. for his consIderatIOn. ALLEGED FREQUENTING.—On Thursday at the offices of Mr. T. Cawley, Georjre Sharp was brought up on remind before the Earl of Had- dington for frequenting the raco ground with intent. A Mr. Jackson* saw the prisoner in the same crowd in wh ch he had £ 6 10s. taken from his pocket.-Prisoner was remanded to Oakmere Potty Sessions. HIGHW AY M IMITTEF,At a. meeting on Thur day Mr. R Symms presided—The Surveyor presented his estimate of expenditure on the bye- i roads for the ensuing year as follows:-Eaton, £ 171 4s Rushton. JB159 Is.- 2d. Tarporley. £ 196 38 and Utkinton, £ 203 18s. 6d.; total, C730 6s. 8d. Last year's estimate was £ 652 10,. 9d. On the mot, on of Mr. Gordon, scoonded by Mr. Dunning, the estimate wa3 reduced to £ 700.— On the motion of Mr. Symms, seconded by Mr. Dun- ning. the surveyor was instructed to inspect and report upon the most dangerous field gates open- ma: on to the road ALLEGED THEFT OF A WATCH.-On Fri- day, Thomas Turner, of no settled address, was charged before Mr. R. Bate with stealing a silver watch and other articles from a canal boat. From the evidence of William Farrington, captain of the boat, and Stephen Ralph, his assistant, it appeared the boat was moored at Calveley Canal Wharf on the 14th instant, and the two men went to the Davenport Arms. When Farrington went back to his boat he found the door broken open, and the articles missing P.C. Barber, of Calveley. found prisoner (who had been seen near the boat) in the Oddfellows' Arms Inn in Nantwich. the same evening. The constable asked him to come outside, and he came out, but immediately he ran up the street. The constable followed him to Audlem, where he Jost sight of him. He received prisoner from the Nantwieli Police that dav. The case was adjourned until Thursday, when prisoner appeared before the Earl of Haddington. Further evidence was given, and prisoner was again remanded.

CHESH'KIC v night's tgazettel", no' iti: (l that in the Cheshire Regiment Major E. E. Husey retires on retired pay Captain A. G. W. Tod is appointed major vioc» F. E. Husey. Bradlevs sell all Fur Elastic- Felt Hats, at 3 9, at comfortable as a cap really 4,6 goods. Other pricee in Hats, 1,11, 2/0, 2 11. 4/6, 4iJ L-. Bra.dleys. Foregata-stroet and 70, Brook-street. Chester. Vrinte.'l and published for ami on behalf of the Oheshiie and North Wales Newnwper Company, Limited, b,) JAM' S tiB h) UITICHALI^ at the Cheshire Observer Office, 8, Di-idge-street, in the City of Chester. -BATMAT,, April 25. 1908.

CURIOUS MOLD CASE. I SFLF-ACCUSEI) OF ARSON I At Mold on Thursday. (n;f'\ March, stated to belong to New York, was committed for trial oil a diargj* of setting fire to a haystack belonging to Mr. Jos ah T, Morgans. Prisoner had given fum.ie.lt m custody, after writing a letter to the ^f»ofioe admitting the offence, which, he said, was 4ha outcome of his having bfvn five days ttithoitt-j food.

CUDDINGTON. COUNCIL'S CONFIDENCE -The confidence of the Parish Council in Mr H. E. Wilbraham and Mr. E. L. Clarke, was expressed on Friday, when at the annual meeting of the Council these gentle- men were re-elected as chairman and vice-chairman respectively. Messrs. John Wing and Joseph Gerrard were re-elected overseers. The Clerk was requested to write to Mr. William Garner request- ing him to remove his timber from the waste land. Mr. Dutton was also asked to write to the North- wich Rural Council requesting them to take over the road leading to Ranslpw Waste. —— ♦

) LATEST MARKETS & FAIRS. (See also .Page 3.) CHESTER CATTLK, Tji i-, itS DAY. -There was a much larger s how of cattle at the fair, and although there was a good attendance of buyers the supply greatly exceeded the demand and consequently trade was slow Prices however were well maintained especially in the best classes. There was also an increased number of sheep on offer but most of them remained unsold at the close of the market. Prices Milch cows, SIC to:222 cal vers. £ 15 to S20 barrens, £ 10 to C14 heifers, C9 to £ 15; stirks, 27 to kio; sheep, 25s. to 30s. CHESTEK HORSE, Turns DAY.—There was a small fair, most of the best lots having been disposed of privately. There was a good demand except for inferior horses, and no difficulty was experienced in obtaining satisfactory prices for anything smart. Quotations all round may be stated as about the same as last month. Prices :Best draught horses, £ 00 to JS75 best cart horses, JB40 to £50; trap horses, 1;20 to £ 135. WHITCHUKCH CHEESE, WEDNESDAY. At the monthly cheese fair, held at Whitchurch, on Wednesday, there was a big pitch for the time of the year, 40 tons, as against 16 tons at Chester last week. The greater part of the cheese was new, but tw <1: ) that the quality was generally good. There, was a numerous attendance of dealers from various parts of Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire. Stafford- shire, Shropshire. Worcester, Flintshire, and Denbighshire, and business was pretty brisk from the outset, indeed, within half an hour from the rime the hell r uin scarcely a lot remained unsold. For cheese of the best quality there was a particularly keen demand, the prices realised being- from 70s. to 73s. per ewt., medium. G5s. to COt, and lower grades from 60s. The prices were a shade lower than at. Chester still in every way satisfactory considering that the pitch was so much larger.

EASTER VESTRIES. I (See also page 6.) UPTON I PROPOSED CHURCH ENLARGEMENT. At the vestry meeting, on Thursday, Mr. (J. H. Broadbent resigned, and Mr. Robertson, of Upton Grange was elected churchwarden in his stead. Owing to the largely increased congregation, it was sugge tad to enlarge the church next year the jubilee of the foundation of the church in Upton. BURTON. At tho annual vestry meeting, last week, the Vicar (the Rev. P. F. A. Morrell) "aid that appli- cation had been made to Mr. H. Gladstone. Lord of the Manor, for a further plot of land to extend j tho churchyard.—-It was decided that a special j meeting should bo called on receipt of Mr. Glad- stone's reply. I KELSALL. The vestry meeting was held on Thursday, the Vicar presiding. The Vicar nominated Mr. T Pixton as his warden and Mr. R Clark was elected people's warden. The Vicar thanked the officials and the congregation for the Easter offerings, also the voluntary choir for making the services so bright and cheerful. I SIIOTTON. I The first vestry in connection with St. Ethelwold's I Church was held on Friday evening, the Vicar (the Rev. Stephen Gladstone) presiding. The statement of accounts for the past year was presented by the Rev. W H. Parkes, and passed. It appeared tha' the offertories for the past twelve months amounted to £ 102 17s. lid and after paying expenses there remained a balance in hand of 9d. Mr. C. Hurlbutt was nominated by the Rector as his warden, and Mr. J. V. Harris was elected as people's warden for the ensuing year. Messrs. Fenwick, J Williams, J. Harris, Holden, T. H. Haswell Austin, Hiscock, and W. Beddard were elected as sidesmen. PLEMSTALL. I The annual vestry meeting was held last week, the Rector presiding. The accounts were presented and shewed a total income of E59 15s. Id. and an expenditure of B58 Os. 6d.. thus leaving a balance in hand of £1 14s. 7d. Reference was made by the Rector to the large increase in offertories, to the increase in the number of communicants and to other signs of progress in church matters. Mr. E. G. Ballard and Mr. H. Hassall were appointed churchwardens and Messrs. S. J. R Dickson, A. D. Chambres, H. Burton, J. Colley, A. R Aston A. Nevett, T. Hughes, J. Taylor, Knott-Hutchinson, V. Dickson, and W. Cofax were elected sidesmen. Votes of thanks were passed to the retiring wardens and to the choir and organist for their services Same discussion arose with reference to seating accommodation and the magazine account, but these questions were left to the Rector and churchwardens to deal with. Messrs. E. G Ballard and A. R. Aston were nominated lay delegates. I PULFORD. The Easter Vestry was held on Monday, the rector, the Rev. H. S. Branscomlie presiding. The accounts shewed a favourable balance of £6 15s The retiring churchwardens, Mr. T. L. Okell being the Rector's, and Mr Joshua Smith the parishioners', were re-appointed. Messrs. John Moore and Robert Parker were appointed sidesmen. Votes of thanks were passed to his Grace the Duke of Westminster for his generous gift of two bells making up the peal to eight hells, also to the choir and Ix.slringers I for the exceHcnt manner in which they had carried I out their duties during the past year. ASHTON HAYES. I The annual vestry meeting was held on Tuesday, when the vicar, the Rev. A. lleycrate, presided. The accounts were presented by Mr. Jas Rimmor. They shewed £G2 as receipts and P,49 as expenses, leaving a balance in hand of -213, the hulk of which is, however, required to pay off a previous loan. In addition, about JBTO has been raised for special objects. The Vicar thanked the officers, including the choir and organist, for their services. Messrs. J. T. Rimmer and Thomas Carter were elected Vicar'^ and people's warden respectively, Mr. F W. Haye", Vicar's warden, retiring. Messrs. Thomas Shallcross and Richard Lewis were elected sidesmen and Messrs. F. H. Turner and Thomas Shallcross were appointed lay representatives to the Diocesan Conference. It was unanimously decided to furnish all the seats with crimson rug-seating, thus giving uniformity to the pews throughout the church. Mr. F. Wright was re-appointed sexton. The Vicar thanked the parishioners for their Easter offering to himself, which amounted to ALVANLEY. I The vestry meeting was held in the reading room last week, the Rev. W. E. Colegrove (vicar) presiding. Both churchwardens (Messrs Thomas Wright and S. H. Noden) were re-elected. Mr. S. H. Noden presented the accounts, which shewed a balance of P,2 5s., notwithstanding a deficit last year of E8 The Vicar proposed a vote of thanks to the wardens, also to Mr. H. Hutchinson for his services as lay-reader. Mr. H. Hutchinson proposed a vote of thanks to the ladies for their services as decorators of the church. Each vote wan carried. A similar compliment was paid to the Vicar for presiding. 1- ELLESMERE PORT. I On Wednesday evening under the presidency of Mr. McNiel, a vestry mooting was held to con- sider a letter from the Local Government Board, addressed to tho overseers, with reference to an application from the Urban Council for an order conferring upon them tho power to appoint and revoke the appointment of assistant overseer. The Board were prepared to consider any observations of the vestry-On the motion of Mr. Breckon and Mr. Dunbevan. the meeting decided to recom- mend the granting of the order.—At a meeting on Thursday the Following officers were elected: — People's warden, Mr. H. Price; vicar's warden. Mr. J. Nicholas; sidesmen, Messrs. R. B. Blay- noy, W. Wallbank. C. D. Price, W. Griffiths, S. Hough, J. McGarva, T. Wilkinson and W. Bit-hell; lay delegates, Messrs. S. Hough and A. -Jones. Steps will shortly be ta-ken to form a church council. -1 ACREFAIR. I ine annual vestry meeting waR held at the St. Paul's Mission Church on Friday, presided over by the curate, the Rev. Mr. Davies.—Mr. A. Phillips (warden) submitted a balancpsheet of the accounts. which were highly satisfactory.—Mr. Samuel Jones was elected vicar's warden, and Mr. J. Prince was elected to be the people's warden wide the following were appointed sl dc-smkn: Messrs. J. Morris, W. Davies, A. Phillips, W. Jones, W. H. Jones and E Edwards. HOOTON. I St. Paul's Church vestry sat last week, the vicar (the Rev. A. E. Cooper) presiding —Mr. H. W. Nott submitted the statement of I accounts. The receipts includm C97 15s. 8d. monthly 2s. special collections, JS45 19s. 8d. poor fund and Christmas coals, a few other items bringing up the total to £ 242 12s. 10d., thus shewing an increase of about JE19 over the receipts of the previous year. The expenditure included JE26 18s. 7d. for general purposes, £ 31 2s. for wages. jS25 5s. 5d. for coal and gas, E105 2s. per special collections, making a total expendi- ture of J6252 7s. 8d., leaving a balance in hand of £ 10 5s. 2d. These accounts were unanimously aaoptea on tne proposition of Air. Harrison, who subsequently moved a hearty vote of thanks to both th? wardens for their work during the past yt,ar:-Tl,o Vicar thanked Mr. Latham for his ser- vices as vicar's warden, and again nominated him for that office.Vr. Latham accepted. Mr. Nott was re-elected people's wa.rden. The following wero appointed as vicar's sidesmen:—Messrs. F. Bradley, A. S. Collard, J. McMurtrie. H. Nichol- son, G. Pollard, H. Sutton and S. C. Woodward. The parish chose the following seven: -Messrs. H. P. Beckett N. S. Burnell, J. Harr:son, J. Hopley, J. D Thorburn, C. W. Wvatt and Lewis. The lay representatives to the Diocesan Confer- ence, Messrs. Latham and McMurtrie, were re- elected. The Vicar appointed the various church officer-^ on bloc: The following accounts were then submitted by the Vicar as treasurer:—Choir and organ fund: Balance in hand from last, Easter, 919 13s. church collections, entertainment, etc., 218 lls. 9d.; subscriptions. J621 6s. making a total of £ 59 10s. 9d., as against £ 62 14s. 9d. last vear. Tho expenditure amounted to £ 52 6s., leav- ing a credit balance of £ 7 4s. 9d., a decrease by £ 12 8s. 3d. The poor fund receipts amounted to E47 18s. 2d., and the cxpense, to £ 47 12s. id., leaving a balance- of 63. 1d in the vicar's hands. The receipts in connection with the magazine amounted to £21 10s. 7d.. and the expenditure to 919 7s. 6d., leaving a credit balance of B5 3s. Id. —Mr. A. Bradley submitted the Sunday school aocount.3. the receipts and expenses of which each amounted to JB57 15s. 9d. All these accounts were unanimously passsd, and a vote of thanks ac corded to Mr. Bradley and the vicar.-Tlic, Vicar having thanked the parishioners for thoir Easter offering ( £ 52 Is. 5d.). referred to the proposed children's window, the fund of which amounted to about LIS IDs.

I FKolLSHAM. (See also Page 7.) POOR RATE.—At the Police Court, on Wed- nesday, the assistant overseer for Frodsham town- ship produced the poor rate for the half-year end- ing September, 1903 which was signed. The rate on houses is Is. 4d. in the j6. and on land 8d. WINTER'S RETURN.—The frosts, winch have been very prevalent recently, had a disastrous effect on oarly pears and stone fruit. Several far- mers in the ne.'ghLourhood have had occasion to lament their hastiness in getting early potatoes in the ground, as the frost has blac kened them. THIEF ROBBED. BY A THIEF-On Wed nesday, at the Police Court, before Messrs. W. H. Hutchings and H. P. Mortimer, David Owen (20), of no fixed abode, was charged on remand with stealing £ 1 Is. from T. Conor, of Bold, who at the time of the theft was a labourer in Frodsham; also a cotton muffler from G. Cook. between mid- night and 6 a..m. of April 13th.—T. Conor stated that he wa3 in charge of Mr. Cook s swing-boats, and prisoner was casually employed. Not being able to find lodgings, prisoner was allowed to sleep in one of the wagons, but had disappeared next morning, and the money was missing.—P.C. Proctor said he ascertained that prisoner had pro- ceeded towards Chester, and thence to Wrexham, where he was arrested under peculiar circum- stances. It appears tliit upon arriv ng in rex- ham prisoner made the acquaintance of another youth, and after treating him to supper they both slept together at a lodg ng-houso prisoner paying the fees. Upon awaking next morning, however, he found that his bed-mate had disappeared, and so had the remains, of his stolen money (fss. 6d.). Prisoner immediately went to the police station to report the robbery, and ho was at once identi- fied as the man wanted at Fiodsham. He admitted the theft of the sovereign, but disclaimed any knowledge of the muffler.-Previous eases of lar ceny were proved against pr soner. and he was committed to prison for a month with hard labour.