Wrexham and Denbighshire Advertiser and Cheshire Shropshire and North Wales Register

I MOLD. THE CHRISTMAS SHOW.—Owing to the crowded state of our columns, we are compelled to hold over our repnrt until next week. THE POLICE COURT.—On Wednesday, Jane Jones, Leeswood. was sentenced to two months' hard labor for stealing a quilt from Glasgow House.-Alfred William Devine (13) and John Collin (14), were charged with stealing the sum of 25, the property of Sergeant-Major Knapp.—Collin was committed for ten days' hard labor, and Devine was ordered to receive twelve strokes with the birchrod.—A charge of stealing money from the till at the Colliers' Arms was also preferred against Devine, but was dismissed for want of evidence. KING STREET.-After having been well coated with a covering of Penmaemn lwr stone, the Local Board has been prevailed upon to give the stones a coating of dirt, which was very effectually done last week. The "setting" was long in its accomplishment, but was being gradually effected. Now the Board will be put to considerable trouble and expense in scraping off, in the shape of mud, what is now put on in the shape of dirt, but it will furnish employment to one or two men for some weeks, and work is scarce and the rates are low just now in Mold. CURIOUS GUN ACCIDENT.-On Saturday morning, a curious gun accident took place at Alyn-terraca, to a boy of Hugh Parry's. It appears that some person had given the boy an old horse pistol on the day before, with which he had been playing in the evening. In the morning by some means the stock came off, and the boy placed the barrel in the fire, when as it heated, a cartridge which was inside but which was not known of, exploded, and the ball pierced the boy's hand doing very considerable injuries. The boy was attended to by Dr. Edwards, and is we are informed making very satisfactory progress. BUCKLEY. I FATAL ACCIDENT.—Mr Thomas Knight, Kinner- ton, has been killed by a passing train in Kinnerton Cutting, near to Hope Station, on the North Western Railway. It is supposed that deceased, who was going home along the line, had got out of the way of a passing train and did not notice another train coming on the other line, and was killed on the spot. The night was a very rough and dark one at the time of the accident. A COWARDLY ACTION.—On Thursday morning, a youth named John Whitley (Buckley Square) nearly lost the use of one of his eyes while at work down the Elm Colliery. It appears that he was engaged fol- lowing a horse. During a journey the animal stopped and commenced kicking, and as he was running away, Whitley called out to a boy named Robert Jones to stop the horse. This having been done. and the animal brought back again, Whitley asked Jones to hook it on to the tubs for him while he held its head. Jones did not comply with his request, on which Whitley called out to Mr Charles Iball, who happened to be near at the time. to hook it on, which he did. It would seem that Jones was annoyed at Whitley telling Mr Iball that be had refused to do as he requested, and that Jones dealt Whitley a severe blow with his fire lamp, which caught him on the eye, inflicting a very serious wound. It was feared that he would lose the use of his eye. He was taken home and attended to by Dr. Edwards, Mold, and we understand that he is progressing slowly but favor- ably. THE WELSH CALVINISTIC METHODIST CHAPEL.— The anniversary services were held on Monday. The total original outlay on the building was over 21,200. The handsome donation of £100 was made to the church by Mr Peters, Celyn, at the ceremony of laying the foundation stone. At the close of the afternoon service, that venerable gentleman, now verging on his 80th year, made a very telling speech, and informed the congregation that he had come there that day to fulfill his promise to the church a year ago, of making a second donation of £100 against a similar sum to be realised through contributions by the church towards the clearing of the chapel debt. It afforded him (Mr Peters) great satisfaction to be the means, however humble, of encouraging their efforts on behalf of this praiseworthy object, and to understand that the conditions of his promise had been satisfied. Mr Robert Williams produced the £100 on behalf of the church, and Mr Peters delivered over in return to the church CIOO the total 2200 reducing the debt to 2400. Mr Isaac Hopwood proposed the thanks of the church and congregation to Mr Peters, and Mr J. Griffiths seconded it, the congregation signifying its concurrence by standing up in a body. Sermons were preached during the day at 10 p.m., 3 p.m., and 6 p.m., by Revs Hugh Roberts, Wrexham; John Price Davies, M.A., Chester and David Williams, Liverpool. BRYMBO AND BROUGHTON. HOME MISSIONS.—On Sunday, three special ser. mons were preached at the Parish Church by Rev. E. Jones, Rector of Caerwys, to large congregations in aid of the Additional Curates Aid Society. ENTERTAINMENT. On Wednesday evening, Mr Alfred Darby, exhibited a series of views by means of a powerful magic lantern to the scholars attending these schools, numbering over 500. ECTURE.-ON Thursday evening, Dr. Purvis, London, gave an interesting and instructive lecture on Current Political Topics," under the auspices of the Denbigbshire Liberal Association. Mr E. Ault presided. LECTURE ON LIBERALISM.—On Wednesday evening, Dr. Purvis, M.A., L.L.D., of London, barrister-at. law, delivered an instructive lecture in the Brake Wesleyan Chapel, Moss, on Liberalism," under the Mispiees of the Denbighshire Liberal Association. There was a large audience. The chair was occupied by Mr C. E. Darby. CONCERT.—On Monday evening, Professor Aubrey Powell, U.S.A. and Mr Alexander, "Cymru Du a a native of the West Indies, with a number of local amateurs, gave a concert in the Tabernacle in aid of the building fund of the circuit minister's house at Coedpoetli, belongin- to the Welsh Wesleyans.- Mr Thos. Tones, Coedpoetb, presided, and there was a fairly large attendance. The Glanrafon Glee Party, the Coedpoeth Glee Party, Mr. Simon J2?es' Nant, Mr M. Roberts, and Mr Henry Roberts, took part in the concert, I which was very enjoyable. I CHIRK. HALTON IRON CHURCH.-This church appears to be now in a flourishing condition, and there is a very successful Sunday School connected with it. PRNRITIVE METHODIST CHAPEL, &ACK PARK.- Mr Massey, of Burslem, Staffordshire, has been con- ducting revival services at this place during the past month, and a considerable number have joined the church. COEDPOETH AND MINER A. ¡ "LAND REFolW.On Mondayeveniog, at Salem RF0EM"7?n Monday evening, at Salem 'Chape}, Dr. ParrM, of London, delivered a lecture on I the above subject, under the &uspices of Denbighshire Liberal Aswclation. I CONCERT.—On Monday evening a concert was neM at Bethel Chapel by the Primiti? Methodists. The prmctpa! voaUstø were MeasM R. Cunnah, Buckley; James Jones, Bwk?h gwyn T. Jones, H. Jones! FemetGIee Party, ^frs Roberts, Minera, and James Jones, Pl%Btwyi leh,gwyn. The proceeds will be devoted towards the funds of the Primitive Chapel fund, PESTRE BAts CHAPM.-The Rev. H. Hughes, ] Hang"Ilen, de:h'erd, on Monday evening, at this j chapd, a lecture on Providence &nd the Gospel." > The attendance was exceedingly coud, and the pro- ceeds wili be devoted towarns the liquidation of the I chapel debt. CEFN AND RQOSYMEDRE. ATTEMPTED SUICIDE. — A man named Edward Thomas, a prominent member of the local corps of the Salvation Army, has attempted to commit suicide I in the canal. He had attached a rope to his neck, I but was fortunately rescued at a critical moment.. I CORWEN. TKE PARLIAMENTARY DEBATING SOCIETy.-This Society held its meeting on Friday evening. TheI; Speaker (Mr J. O. took the chair at eight o'clock. The Cler!c (Mr J. Jorez), read in account of the transactions. The Queen's speech was read. It was moved by Mr R. E. Hughes, and seconded by Mr L. Morris, that a bumble address be presented. The I Leader of the Opposition severely criticised the speech, and owing to the passage in reference to the admission of the member for Northampton, moved an amendment. The debate was continued by Mr E. Foulkes (L.), Mr J. Hughes (C.), Mr Bryax. (L.), Mr Garner (C.) The house adjourned at 9.45. BAZAAR.—The English Congreeationalists have been working vigorously for several months in pre-II pa.dn a grand bazaar in order to wipe off the debt of some f;M resting on their place of worship? The bazaar wa? opened on Tuesday at two p.m., in the British Schoolroom, by Major Barnes. The room I was very tastefully arranged, and the stalls were pre- sided over by Mrs Appleton. Mrs James, Mrs C. Roberts, Mrs Edmunds, Mrs Parrv, Mrs Goodfellow, Mrs Diggory, Miss Appleton, Miss Wilson, Miss Parry, Miss Manlev, Mrs G. Roberts, the Revs. J. J. Cooper, E. Schnadhorst, Messrs Roberts, Parry, Diggory, James also were busy. Mr Minshall re- I peated some verses of poetry, which were very I well received. We understand that some good busi- ness was effected.

NOTES AT THE CORWEN ASSOCIATION. The last week was remarkable in the annals of this neighbourhood for a very severe gale with which the vale of Edeyrnion was visited on Tuesday night, and for the quarterly association of the Calvimsic Methodists. Notwithstanding the severity of the weather the different conferences and meetings of the association were well attended. The resolutions passed at the conference have been already published, but we desire to refer to one of them, viz. :-that on Disestablishment. It is well-known that several of the ministers and delegates were averse to passing any resolution on the subject. Of cours-, one and all are in favor of such a measure, but many of the old ministers were rather of opinion that they were going beyond their own province as a religious organisation in passing any resolution. But the tide was too powerful for these well-meaning men. And if a religious body believes that the establishment is an injury to religion why not protest against it. Pro- bably some clergymen will brand these young ministers as political dissenters, but what of that. It is a fact that many church pulpits have echoed lately to terrible voices against disestablishment. If it is right for the clergyman to proclaim his belief on the Lord's Day, certainly it is not wrong for Noncon- formists to utter their belief in meetings of this kind. The Calvinistic Methodists are very conservative in their manner of conducting their public services. The same preachers are put to the front year after year with but very slight variations, and it is diffi- cult for young men even of undeniable ahilities to have an opportunity of showing the good gifts pos- sessed by them. The friends at Corwen acted very wisely in introducing a few names to the programme. The Rev. W. Williams, now of Birmingham, formerly of Corwen, preached a most excellent sermon on the question of the hour, The Gospel preached to the poor." This was undoubtedly one of the best and most appropriate discourses delivered during the whole series of meetings. The Rev. O. Edwards, B.A., of Carnarvon, pr-ached a very earnest and effective sermon, showing a deep insight into truth, and the preacher was able to make it tell powerfully on the hearts and consciences of the hearera. The Rev. J. Cyuddylan Jones, of Cardiff, paid his first v:sit to this part of the country, and preached two sermons. That his sermons were able goes without saying, for whatever he is he is a genius, and the stamp of originality is on all his productions. He is a very eloquent sueaker, but in his mode of speech he has cut a way for himself. One would think that he does not imitate any other speaker, and it is well that no one can possibly imitate him. He has a monotonous intonation which is a serious drawback to his obtaining a true effect. Still he is very interest- ing. He is a great reader, and can make good use of his reading. His illustrations are chiefly drawn from historical and scientific sources. His themes are very fully illustrated, and his illustrations are full of point and life. With regard to the man himself he has fought his way to the high position he now occupies in the face of the greatest disadvantages.—Our space will not permit our referring to the other preachers at present. A.B. DENBIGH. THE CHRISTMAS SHOW.—We are reluctantly com- pelled to hold over our report of the Christmas show until next week. THE INFIRMAR.Y BALL.—The annual bail i.n aid of the funds of the Denbighshire Infirmary came off in the Town Hall, on Thursday evening, with great success. There were about 220 ladies and gentlemen present. SERIOUS CHARGE AGAINST A FARMER.—On Thurs- day, David Vaughan, farmer, near Bodfari, was brought up charged with dangerously a-saulting a man named Jones, who now lies in the Infirmary, suffering from very serious injuries, and unable to appear. Defendant was allowed out on substan- tial bail for a week. Two other men remain in custody. UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE LOCAL EXAMINATION. —The annual examination of pupils in schools has been taking place during the week at Denbigh and other centres in England and Wales. The examina- tion at Denbigh has been conducted in the Assembly Rooms, the presiding examiner being Mr A. E. Stein thai, M.A.. Fellow of Trinity College, Cam- bridge. There were 23 candidates (15 boys and 8 girls) at this centre. THE PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY.—The first concert in connection with this society was given in 1the Drill- hall on the 13th inst. The following works were per- formed with orchestral accompaniments :—" Woman of Samaria" and "The Holy City." The vocalists were: Miss Kate Fusselle, L.A.M., Miss Minnie Jones, (certificate R.A.M., 1883), Miss Gertrude Bradwyu, R.A.M., Mr T. Bartley, Mr J. Ll. Wil- liams, Mr D. Harrison (Birmingham Town Hall Concerts). Leader, Mr C. F. Stephenson; piano, Mr Meyrick Roberts; harmonium, Major Casson; conductor, Mr Felix C. Watkins. There was a large and appreciative audience, the performances being given with great success.

THE YALE OF CLWYD WINTER SHOW. The annual exhibition of roots, poultry, dairy pro- duce, and industrial exhibits was held at the Drill Hall, Denbigh, on Tuesday and Wednesday. It had as patron Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, Bart., M.P. lady patroness, Mrs Cornwallis West; president, Major C. S. Mainwaring; and treasurer, Major Casson. The judges for roots and vegetables were Lieut.-Col. Hughes, Ystrad; Major Birch, Maes Elwy Mr Roberts, Saltney. For cheese and butter, Mr E. P. Jones, Rhyl, and Mr Davies. Caerwys. For poultry, Mr J. F. Jesse, Bathafarn. For indus- trial exhibits, Mrs Lloyd-Williams, Bodgwilym; Mrs Mostyn, Segrwyd; Mrs Hughes, Ystrad; Miss Williams Wynn, Cefn Mrs Gold Edwards, Gwyn- fryn; Mrs West, Ruthin Castle; Major C. S. Main- waring Mr J. R. Heaton; Mrs Birch, Maes Eiwv Mrs Mainwaring, Galltfaenan; Miss Mainwaring, Galltfaenan; Mra Mesham; Miss Williams, Vale- street Mrs Howard, Llanrhaiadr Hall; Mr Vaughan, St. Asaph; Mr T. Royles, Ruthin. Mr W. A. Nott, Vale-street, was the secretary. Upwards of B24 was offered in 84 prizes, for 36 different products. The competitors numbered 105. PRIZE LIST. DAIRY PRODUCE. For the best two cheese, not less than 30lbs each—1, Mr Howalson, Plas Newydd, L'aasannan; 2 an J 3, John Roberts, Star Shop, Denbigh; hon., Mr Longtou, Cruler, Nantglyu. Basket of six pounds of butter—1, Mrs Pritchard, Galltfaenan Farm, Henllan 2, Mr Houghton, Broadleys, D nbigh 3, Mrs Miller, Vale-street; hon Mrs Davies, Pontfaen, Rhudtilan. Tub or pot of butter, not less than 20lbs -1, Mr H"Ught;)n, Broadleys 2, Mr El'is P. Jones, Plasilanynys, Ruthin 3, Mrs Davies, Pontfaen, Rhuddlan hon., Mr E Price, Coediog. POULTRY. Two fat feese (feathered)-I, Mrs Jones, Xar.tgwilync. Bodfari 2, Mr Wright, Tynycelyn, Bodfarl; 3, Mr Jones, Pen-y-porcheU, Henllan; hon. Mr Levi Roberts, Tyny- pwllt, Denbigh. Two tuikeys (in feathers)-I, Mr Humphreys, Goblin Farm. Denbigh 2. Mr J. V. Williamson, Derwen Hall, Ruthin 3, Mrs Hill, Nant Lewis Alyn, Llandyrnog; hon., Mr J. Davies, Caerwya. Two ducks (feathered)—1, Mrs Wi'liams, Penyffurdd, Denbigh; 2, Mr Humphreys. Goblin Farm; 3, Miss Roberts, Plas Harri, Llanefydd. Two fowls (trussed)-I.)Ir Humphreys, Goblin Farm 2, Mr W. Smith. Plas Ashpool; 3, Mr Levi Roberts, Tyny- pwll. ROOTS AND VEGETABLES. Mangolds (six roots)-I and 2, Mr E. Gratton, Aber Kinsey, Rhuddlan; 3, Mr John Roberts, Geina-z House, Bodfari. Six swedes—1, Mrs Charlton Jones. Plas Coch. St. Asaph 2, Mr McMurray, Twysog; 3, Mrs Story, Ccppy Farm. Six white or yellow turnips-1, Mr J. B. Pritchard, Galltfaenan Farm, Henllan; 2. no names; 3, Mr Prit- chard. Three ox cabbages—1, Mrs Story, Coppy, and also one for red cabbages. Beetroot—1 and 3 Mr Levi Roberts, Tynypwll; 2, Mrs Story, Coppy. Pa.rsnips-I, Mri Story; 2. Mr J. B. Pritchard, Gallfae- nan Farm 3, Mr Parry, the Lodge, Wrexham. Carrots- 2, Mr Williams, Brookhouse Nurseries; 2. Sir J. B. Pritchard; 3, Mr Levi Roberts; Extra, Mr Parry, Lodge. Round potatoes—1 and 3, Mr Levi Roberts 2. Mr J. B Pritchard. Kidney potatoes—1. Mr Jones, Penyporchell; 2, Mr J. B. Pritchard: 3. Mrs Story. I Any variety potatoes-1, Mrs Story; 2, Mr Robert Foulkes, Gyrn Castle, Llanasa; 3, Mr Lorgton, Cader, Nantglyn. Rope of onions-1, Mr J. B. Pritchard; 2 and 1, Mrs Srory. Red eelery-I and 3, Mr J. B. Pritchard; 2, Mrs Story. White celery-No merit. Collection of agricultural produce—1, Mrs Story, Coppy 2, Mr Levi Roberts. Collection Chrysanthemum blooms-I. Mr J. B. Prit- ehard. INDUSTRIAL EXHIBITS. Honey, not less than 6 lbs.—Mr John Roberts, Geinas 2. l\li¡s Roberts, Plas Harri, Uanefydd; 3, Mr Levi* Roberts, Tynypwll. Art needlework-I, Miss Bireb, Maesbury, St. Agaph 2, Miss Minnie Jones, Britannia Buildings, Denbigh; 3,' Miss Roberts, BodfarL I woolwork—1, Miss, Jones. Cetrigydruidion; 2, Miss Lilly Nott. Henllan-plaee, Denbigh; 3, Mrs Hughes, Pemssa r Waen, Trefnant. Woollen stockings, knitted by girls under 14-1. Miss E. A. Williams, Garden Villa, Denbfah; 2, Miss J. Williams, High-street, Denbigh; 2, Miss Lizzie Hughes, Cerrigy- drahUon 84 knitted by adults-l, Miss Mary Thomas. Cemgydruidion; Mrs Jones. Penyn" orcbeHissa 3, Mrs Emma Barnett, Ruthin-road, Denbigh. I Workingman's shirt—1, Mrs Maddocks, 16, Borthyn- stre-;t, Ruthin 2, Mrs E. Parry, Tyddyn Terrace, Cerrigy- dr lidion. I Workingraen's boots, value 15s—1, Mr John Williams. Portland Place, Denbigh 2 and 3, Mr Isaac Morris, Swine Market. Women's strong b >cte, value lOs-I, Mr John Willitms, Portland Place 2. Mr John Morris, Swine Market 3, Mr David Hughes, High-street. Pair of cart horse shoes and nails-I. Mr Lewis Jones, Ruthin; 2. Mr (10S) Jackson, Foundry; 3, Mr (109) Hughes Foundry. Mab;e lantern—1, Mr James Green, High-street. Den- bigh 2 and 3, Mr John Gittins, Henllan-street, Denbigh. Piece of cloth, woven in the district—1, Mr Wiiliaing. Henl'an-street, Denbigh 2, Mr S. Anwyl, Lawnt, Den- bigh 3. 11.- Lewis Koberts Bontnewydd, Denbigh. Walking stick, m,.tde in the district—1, Mr Parry, Lodge, Denbigh 2, Mr Roberts. Geinas House, Bodfari; 3, Mrs St-irv, Copy. Hedging gauntlets—1, Mr John Robe ts, Pontuchal, Ruthin 2, Mr Thomas, Caerwya 3, Mr W. Jones, Hen- llan-street, Denbigh. Bill book-I, Mr John Jones, Pandy. L:.dies' chemise-I. Miss Mary Ann Jones, the Castle, Denbigh 2, Miss Jones, Henllan 3, Miss Mary Ann Uoyd, Gwaynynog bach, Denbigh. MISS FAZAKERLEY'S PRIZES. For the cleanest cottages in Denbigh—1, Mr Evan Roberts, Henllan-street, Denbigh, L3 t'le second and third was divided as follows, each obtaining At, they biing considered equal—Mr JJseph Roberts, senior, Hen- Han-street; and Mr Joseph Roberts, junior, Henllan- street. In addition to those sent for competition there were a large number of articles sent merely for exhibition, and amongst others we noticed .specimens of needle- work of the 17th century, contributed by Mr W. D. W. Griffith, Garn; also Indian embroidery on muslin, modern embroidery, a sideboard cloth de- signed, worked, and exhibited by Miss Mainwaring; a beautiful silk embroidered Turkey cock, exhibited by the Rev. W. H. Williams, Bodelwyddan Rectory; II Mrs Gold Edwards also sent some splendid specimens of modern needlework, Mrs West, Ruthin, sent beautiful needlework, embroidery, &c. The needle- work executed by Miss Birch and Miss Minnie Jones, Britannia Buildings, were greatly admired; some de- lightful specimens of string work executed by Miss Angel were exhibited, a curious piece of work was exhibited by David Lloyd, sawyer, Denbigh, several fans made from one piece of wood. for which Miss Mainwaring gave an extra prize of 5s. Thomas Ro- berts, Chapel-street, Denbigh, exhibited a small pair of patent leather shoes of excellent finish and work- manshio. for which the judges gave an extra honorary prize. Mr E. T. Jones had a number of useful agri- cultural implements on exhibition. Beautiful mantle pieces made for the Denbigh Eisteddvod wer3 sent for sale, and exhibited by Mr T. J. Williams, High- street. A large quantity of flowers were sent by Messrs. Williams and Son, seedsmen, adorning the platform and adding a richness to the place they oc- cupied. Masters had done his best to enliven the ball, placing flags, flowers, &s., with great taste. Miss F. Webb, R.A.M., added much to the success of the show by kindly presiding at the piano, playing with her usual skill and taste. Sergt. Malt offered great assistance, he had a curious turnip on show, found by Mr Roberts, Geinas, it was in the shape of a hand, the five fingers were perfect, and it was quite a curiobity. GRESFORD. ENTERTAINMENT.—On Friday an entertainment con- sisting of vocal and instrumental music and reading was given in the Boys' School at 8 p.m. The room was very full, and the audience loudly demonstrative. The following ladies and gentlemen took part in the proceedings—The Rev. E. B. Smith and Miss L. Smith, Miss M. E. Trevor Parkins, Mrs and the Misses Chilton, Mr F. S. Manisty, and Mr Weaver. GWERSYLLT. A CHRISTMAS TREE and sale of work is announced to be held in the school-room of the Gwersyllt Con- gregational Chapel on New Year's Day. The tree will bo opened by Mrs Richard F. Farrer, and the proceeds will be in aid of the building debt. Fuller particulars will be found in an advertisement. PRESENTATION.—The annual supper in connection with F Company. 1st D.R.V., took place on Friday evening at the King William Inn, Summerliill, when a presentation was made to Sergt. W. M'Hutcheon, on his resigning the duties of secretary to the corps, consequent upon his removal to Liverpool. The gift took the form of a handsome gold watch and chain, which was presented by Capt. Clayton on behalf of the subscribers. HOLT AND FARNDON. THE VicAn OF FARNDON.—The Rev. L. S. Owen, vicar of this parish, has recently been compelled through ill health to refrain from all his parish duties during the winter months, and resort to a warmer climate. A clergyman from Norfolk mean- while acts in his place. THE RECENT STORM.—The damage done in this district has been considerable, but fortunately unat- tended with loss of life. Stacks of straw were blown down, large boughs of trees severed from the parent stock, several damson and other trees uprooted, houses unroofed and the blates scattered in all directions, and in one instance the roof of a straw- thatched house in Dee Lane fell in at one o'clock in the morning, while the inhabitants were in bed, and it was with considerable difficulty some of them were extricated from the debris, but all escaped unhurt. The furniture, however, had to be removed to another dwelling waiting the completion of the house which is about to be rebuilt. HOLT ACADEMY.—BREAK-UP MEETING.—It is cus- tomary at this institution to hold two public meet- ings, at which the work done during the sessions ending at Mid-summer and Christmas is reviewed by the principal and teachers, and addresses delivered by the pupils and others. The break-up meeting for the Christmas holidays was held after supper on Monday evening, when Mr J. Oliver Jones, the prin- cipal, addressed the pupils, and in the course of his remarks make touching reference to the death of a former pupil, Master Charles Edwards, who was drowned on the homeward voyage from Australia. Referring to the work of the session, he could say their labor had not been in vain they had tangible proofs of their having worked hard and succeeded. William Parker, who was now in Edinburgh, had passed in every subject he tried, and distinguished himself in logic and higher mathematics, together with Mr R. L. Hughes and Mr E. Smallwood. Another young man, Mr David Howell, had two days before succeeded in entering into the bank. And as to Mr Christmas Evans, the teacher, he had laboured hard with the classes. In the matriculation examin- ation which he passed, one half as a rule were plucked, but he got through, and was now preparing for his first B.A. He had been pleased with the conduct and industry of the whole school. They had not run on with two or three scholars, at the expense of neglecting any boy in the school. He had as much confidence in the ability of Mr Christmas Evans as he had in himself. They had done their duty to every pupil, and he was pleased to be able to say they had all done well with their lessons. He was sorry to part with some of them, but the majority would return. Messrs J. Parker, Rossett, R. M. Williams, Festiniog, E. Edwards, Wrexham, R. G. Jones, Allen Carrington, Henry Rees, and Thomas Jones spoke in the highest terms of the care taken of them and the kindness shown by Mrs Oliver Jones and Mrs Yoxall. After Messrs D. W. Evans. Chester, Christmas Evans, and R. Leigh Roose had spoken, Mrs Yoxall and Mrs Jones thanked the young men for their kind expressions in reference to them both. HOPE AND CAERGWRLE. LIBERALISM IN FLINTSHIRE.—Since the political campaign in the county cf Lord Richard Grosvernor and Mr John Roberts, both parties have become con- siderably more active and are organising themselves. We are glad to hear that an influential meeting was held at Caergwrle on Friday, when after Mr H. L. Rawlins being voted to the chair it was unanimously decided to form a Liberal Club for the Hope and Caergwrle district. It was also unanimously decided to ask Mr S. A. Sharman, Caergwrle, to be president, Mr J. H. Rawlins vice-president, and Mr Bowman, Hope Hall, treasurer. We hope to hear of this being an active club in the future. LEESWOOD AND PONTBLYDDYN. CONCERT.—The annual concert for the benefit of the Pontblyddyn Cricket Club was held in the National Schoolroom, Leeswood, ou Friday evening. Mr W. B. Marston, Bromfield Hall, occupied the chair. There was a large audience, that appeared 'to highly appreciate the various items on the programme, but the attendance was not quite equal to that of previous years, this no doubt being attributable to the in- clement weather of the afternoon. Miss Jennie Owen, it is needless to say, was the star of the evening, and was in excellent voice, and pave her solos with the happiest success, especially Ehren on the Rhine," which was sung with fine expression and feeling. An encore was demanded by the audience at each appearance, and Miss Owen responded by singing in the order named, Auntie," Tit for tat," "Two's Company and Three's not." The other artistes-the Misses Jones, Mr R. Cunnab, Mr E. H. Thomas, Mr Boardman, Miss Lea, Messrs Williams, T. S. Adams, Prydderch, Galston, Griffiths, and Hughes, acquitted themselves of their several parts with much ability, and well merited the applause which each received, but especial mention should be made of Mr E. H. Thomas, who was accompanied by Mrs Douglas, of Mold (whose pupil he is), and who possesses a voice of great power and promise. The accompanists were Miss Lea, Mr Boardman, Miss Jones, and Mrs Douglae, each of whom executed their respective parts in a very efficient manner. Before closing the Rev. C. Williams proposed a vote of thanks to the Chairman, who, in a short speech in reply, said he failed to see that what he had done was worthy of recognition, but their thanks were due to the kind friends who had given their services and contributed to the enjoyable entertainment that evening, and he requested all present to show their appreciation of their efforts by giving them a good hearty cheer, a request which was at once complied with. He also thanked the audience for the support they had given by their presence to the noble game of cricket, a game which he was sure would do nobody any harm, but on the contrary it had much to recom- mend it, for it developed the muscular powers and encouraged a fine manly feeling in those who indulged in it, and brought different classes together, and so promoted a mutual sympathy which was very much to be desired. The singing of the National Anthem brought the proceedings to a close. LLANYPWLL. I PRESENTATIOS.-After a preaching service last week, a handsome family Bible, bound in Morocco, with marginal references, maps, and family register, was presented to Mr Thomas Pierce, foreman at the Foundry, on the occasion of his marriage to Miss Alice Jones, Bryn Cottage, as a token of regard and appreciation of his service as a teacher in the Sabbath School. After some remarks by the Revs. R. Leigh Roose and W. Brereton, Mr Edward Edwards, superintendent of the School, in suitable terms made the presentation. Mr Thomas Pierce in responding cordially thanked all who contributed, and especially Miss Jones. Tyn-y-twll, who took the matter in hand and successfully carried it out. LLANGOLLEN. THE ALLEGED BCRGLARY IN A CANAL BOAT.-On Monday Jacob Jones, a well-known character from Poatcysyllte, of no settled occupation, was brought up in custody charged with having on the night of the 4th December entered a canal boat, and stolen 26. from the person of Richard Haromondf*, a loatman. As the evidence adduced was deemed insufficient, the I prisoner was discharged. MB MCNDELLA AND THE NEW EDUCATIONAL CODE.—In reply to a communication by Mr E. S. Roberts, Llantysilio School, Llangollen, addressed to Mr Mundella, in which Mr Roberts expressed his ad- miration of the principle upon which the new Code is based, the great improvement in national education which it has already achieved, and the general character of the instruction which it so rightly enforces, the following letter has been received Privy Council Office. December 17tb, 1S83. DE,\R SIR,-Accept my thanks for your letter of the 15th inat your tribute to the working of the Code is courageous and honorable to you, and is in accord w.th the written opinions I am receiving from good teachers on all h inds. With good wishes for ycur tuccess in your good work, I remain faithfully yours, Mr F. S. Roberts. A. J. Ml'NDELLA. NORTHOP. ORDINATION SERVICES.—On the 12th inst., an in- teresting series of meetings, at Northop, in con- nection eo with the settlement of the Rev. D. B. Hughes, of Bala College, as pastor at Connah's Quay and Northop, was brought to a close. The services began on Monday, when sermons were preached in the Calvinistic Methodist Chapel by the Revs. J. Hughes (Pontypool) and W. T. Hughes, Ebbw Vale. On Tuesday afternoon, the ordination service was held, whon the Congregational Chapel was crowded, The Rev. T. Roberts (Mold) presided, and, after the intro- ductory service had been taken by the Rev. W. Oliver, M.A., an ad lress on church principles was given by the Rev. Principal Lewis, B.A., (Bala). The Rev. Owen Thomas, M.A., asked the usual questions, to which Mr Hughes satisfactorily replied. The Rev. H. Ward Price-(Chester) offered the ordination prayer. and the charge to the pastor was given by the Rev D. Burfurd Hooke (Rhyl). After tea a conference of the Flintshire English Congregational Union was held, the Rev. D. B. Hooke ?resi d in,?.i,f. Alletson, in the the Rev. D. B. Hooke presiding. Subsequently a public meeting was held, Mr G. H. Alletson, in the chair. On We-lnes-day special sermons were preached bv the Rev. T. Hughes (Pontypool) and J. Hughes (Tredegar), and last night the sermon to the church was preached by the Rev. H. E. Lewis, of Buckley. Considering the inclement weather the meetings were well attended throughout, and Mr Hughes enters on his duties with every promise of success. RUTHIN. I SBALL AT NANTCLWYD HALL, NEAR RCTHIN.—There was a brilliant assembly at Nantclwyd Hall on Tues- day night, when the electric light was brought into requisition for the first time in the Vale of Clwyd. The ballroom was lighted by seventy of Swann's incandescent burners from a dynamo-electrical machine, driven by an ordinary farm engine. There wer, abaut 200 guests. TEMPERANCE.—The annual meeting of the local branch of the Church of England Temperance Society took place on the evening of the 13th inst., at the Assembly Room, the Mayor (Mr W. Osbert Edwards) presiding. There was a crowded attendance. After an interesting address from the deputation (Mr J. E. Fearnley, Manchester), the secretary (Mr Bryan) read a report showing that the Society had 170 mem- bers, and that there was a small balance in hand. GRAMMAR SCHOOL CONCERT.—On Monday evening the break-up concert was given in the schoolroom, which was very tastefully decorated for the occasion. The conductor was Mr Felix C. Watkins, St. Asaph, who discharged his duties with happy success. Those who took part in the proceedings included Messrs J. W. Davies, Arthur Jones. Amos Jones, T. E. Owen, J. R. Roberts, Felix C. Watkins, and W. McKinlay Davies, the entertainment being thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated by the audience. Among those present were Mr and Mrs Williams, L'andyrnog Dr. Jenkins and family, Mr and Mrs David Jones and family, Mr Wood Gibson, Miss Gabriel Roberts, Mrs and Miss Freeborn, Mr Walmsley, Mr and Mrs R, H. Williams, Mr Councillor Jones and Mr Councillor Morris, &c., &c. Before the National Anthem was sung Mr Whittington briefly returned thanks to tho-e who had again patronised the school, to Mr Wat-kin,, Miss Edwards, who presided at the piano, and to those kind ladies who had helped to decorate the loom. POLICE COURT, MONDAY. — Before Mr J. Goodrich, the Rev. the Warden of Ruthin, Mr J. F. Jesse, Mr R. Bl.-zard, Dr. Jenkins, Capt. Cole, and Mr G. H. Denton. Druifkenness'.—William Frances was fined 5s and costs; Evan Davies, 105 and costs; Daniel Roberts, 51 and costs, 8s; William Jones, Ruthin, 10" and 5? and costs, William Edwaids, GySylIiog. 51 and costs; and costs. ?SMM?tK? a tF<t<cr 2!(tt  Assaulting a Water Bailiff. —Stephen Jones, jun., Sydney Jones (his mother), and Maria Jones (his aunt) were charged by Edward Roberts, water bailiff, with assaulting him on the 19th November last.—Mr O. Elwards prosecuted, and Mr Edward Roberts defended Stephen Jones.Stephen Jones was fined lOa and costs, and the other defendants 5s and costs each. Poacking.-A Serious CAa;-ge.-Evan Hughes. farmer, Pencoed Issa, Pant Glas, was brought up in custody charged with poaching and assaulting John Davies, gamekeeper to Mr Tom Naylor Leyland. Nantclwyd Hall.—Mr Edward Roberts prosecuted, and Mr Osbert Edwards defended.—Hughes was com- mitted for trial to the Quarter Sessions, bail being accepted, himself in £50 and two others in S25 each. I ST. ASAPH. I SPEECH DAY AT THr; GRAMMAR SCIIOOL.-Tlie annual speech day tojk place on Thursday, the proceedings passing off very successfully. I COUNTY COURT.-At this Court on Friday there were about 60 new plaints and three judgment sum- monses, but none of the cases possessed much public interest. THE DEBATING SOCIETY.-On Tuesday evening, the Rev. W. Morton, M.A., read an instructive and amusing paper, on Proverbs and Phrases," before the Society. HIGHWAY BOARD.—Mr G. Dixon preaMstl at the meeting on Saturday.—Mr Louis'bill for N tntyfaenol and Prestatyn road, of SL2 1811 6J. occasioned con- siderable discussion. It was generally agreed to be very moderate, and Mr L. Roberts moved that it be paid, which Mr Healy seconded but Mr Sisson moved, and Mr J. Lloyd seconded, that it be made out in two parts, the one to take in all done before the 7th July (Z 2i 8d), and the other to take in the remainder of the bill, the former being against the waywardens and the latter against the Board, and that they both be paid. Nine voted for the amend- ment and five for the motion.—Mr Grimsley's bill for the same matters, amounting to L7 15s was passed.

I THE HEALTH OF SIR WATKIN. Another consultation having been held with Sir Prescott Hewitt, Sir W. Jenner, and Mr Bennett, we are glad to learn that Sir Watkin W. Wynn is progressing satisfactorily, though slowly, the case being still a very serious one. ———— A ————

I FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE. Our readers will be glad to learn that there have been no fresh outbreaks in this district since the 1st December inst., and that the cattle reported to the chief constable up to that date have all recovered.

I LIVERPOOL CORN MARKET LIVERPOOL, Friday. Moderate attendance; market for wheat closes with a very limited demand at late rates. Flour quiet; oats slow oatmeal a fraction lower. Indian corn (mixed American) 5s 5d to 5s 6d round 5s 7d to 5", lid peas 7s to 7s Id beans (Egyptian) 6" 6d to 6s 7d. I LONDON CORN MARKET. LONDON. Friday. Opening quiet; holiday market, very little doing in wheat or other grain, prices about same.

I HUNTING APPOINTMENTS. SIR W. W. WYN'S HOUNDS MEET ON Monday, December 21th .Whitting: on Wednesday, December 2tith Brynypys Thursday, December 27th Carden Saturday, December 29th Whitchurch At 10 30. THE SFTROP.3HIRS HOUNDS. Monday, December 24th WaTford Hall Wednesday, December 2&h Atchain Bridge Friday, December 28th. Crudgington Gate At 10.45. THE FLINT AND DENBIGH HOUNDS. Monday, December 24th .Pengwern Friday, December 28ch .Nant Prestatyn At 10.30. THE UNITED PACK. Saturday, December 22 id Ludbary North At 101.30. THE VALE OF CLWYD HARRIERS. Saturday. December 22nd ..Rhyd-y-CMgwyn Wedne day. December 26th Aelwyd Ucha Saturday, December 29th Cotton Hall At 11.

I DUBLIN MAIN COLLIERY, NoRTHOP.-It is com- monly reported that the proprietors have decided to abandon all efforts in pumping, and it is their inten- tion to pull up the engines now pumping. It will be a great blow to the neighbourhood should this be the case. LECTURE AT LLAVFYNYDD.—On Wednesday even- ing a lecture was delivered in the Mission Room, by the Rev. C. H. Bateman, Penymynydd, Hawarden, the subject being The Jewish Worship, with Model of the Tabernacle." The proceeds were in aid of the Church of England Working Men's Society. HANMER PETTY SESSIONS.—At these sessions, on Saturday, John Bartlem, of the Hanmer Arms Inn, was summoned under the Adulteration Act by Supt. Bolton for selling to him on the 7th of November last a pint of whiskey, a pint of rum, and a pint of gin, the same being several degrees below the strength allowed by the Act, the defendant being fined 30. and costs in each case of the rum and gin, and Is and costs in the case of the whiskey. Patrick O'Donnel, convicted at the recent session of the Central Criminal Court of the murder of James Carey on the high seas on the 29th July, was hanged on Monday morning within the walls of Newgate. Binns was the executioner. At the formal inquest upon the body Captain Kirkpatrick, the governor of the prison, in reply to a question from a juror, stated I that the last sentance of the law had been carried out infa perfectly satisfactory manner. DISESTABLISHMENT IN WAl?s.—At the Disestablish- ment Conference, recently held in Wales, it wm; resolved that strenuou efforts should be made to secure for Mr Dillwyn's Disestablishment motion the fullest support throughout the Principality. With this object the Executive Committee of the Liberation Society have now issued a circular describing their intended I plan of operations. It includes the formation of local committees in every part of Wales, and the creation I of two Councils for North and South Wales; the hold- ing of public meetings of Welshmen in Liverpool, Manchester, London, and other places in England, the issue of special publications in both the English and Welsh languages, and the presentation of numer- ous petitions to Parliament. It is further intended to appeal to Welshmen to raise a special fund to meet the increased expenditure which this agitation will occasion. frg-isei

THE HEROINE OF TIE UP- I EXPRESS. I I A RAILWAY ROMANCE. BY EDWARD BRADBURY. "She's forty-nine minutes !ate, S! n The place is Ironby Juncao railway stati. on the speaker is a functionary in fustian, whose j glistening hat, gtoasy jacket, and metallic button i shine as much as the lamp he has in his hand and the nnpunctual party of the feminine persua- sion referred to is the up-express train. He ad- dresses this official information to Mr Austin Denton, who is braving the sweeping Eastwmd: on the dismal platform. The trains are always j late at Ironby Junction. I really believe a serious accident would happen if, by some fortuitous com- bination of circumstances, an engine happened to run to time. What a success the wind was that December; night. Next morning the papers were full of Terrible Effects of Last Night's Gale. The wind had all its own way, which was a bad way. To have listened to its savage yell of defiance in a snug, close-curtained room as one sat before. the warm glow of the fire in convivial converse, or silent reverie, would have been a pleasant sensation but meeting the pitiless ruffian face to face on Ironby Junction station platform was not. so satisfactory an experience. If you do not catch a cold that laughs at aU the drugs in the British Pharmacopoeia, it is not the fault of the draughty station now impeached. Two or three railway companies run into this station, and they have not yet decided as to which of them in particular belongs the honour j of owning it; and so between several proprietors the inclement place is neglected, just like a con- traband baby ot uncertain affiliatiou. Icy waves of wind surge and sough through the station as through a mountain pass. The North- Easter storms the platforms. It exultantly charges them in front, and sneakingly carries them by a sinister flank movement. Snow and1 aleet, hail and rain, are pressed into the tight. I The electric telegraph wires are agitated, and! fret w:th a wild, weird music of paill; signals shine with a spectral red light that the wind. seems to take away with it and scatter in the air in splashes of colour tho lurid lamps of a de- parting goods train shed a blood-like radiance 1 along the cold, black gleam of steel way the engine seems to burn its way through the dark- ness the steam is blown in billows of red across the lowering sky. Button up your ulster as you will, Mr. Austin Denton turn up your collar, if you please; per- form the quarter-deck promenade as energeti- j cally as you like, there is forty-nine minutes to wait, and the wind chuckles derisively at your stout great coat it disdains mufflers and water- proofs it sends arrows of ice through the warmest woollen garments. It stabs one in the back like the vendetta of a craven assassin. It whistles for one's blood at every turn to-night, does this North-Easter that Charles Kingsley loved, and was surely alone in this strange affection. It rewarded the worthy Canon for his championship by killing him, did this cold-, blooded Ishmael of the Elements. Who is left to say a good word in its favour now ? Forty-nine minutes late! There is clearly nothing for it but patience, and patience at Ironby Junction Station is at any time not the easiest of practical virtues. There is the waiting- room, and the refreshment buffet, to take rofuge in. Mr. Austin Denton elects the former. The; waiting-room is a nondescript one, and is really the booking-hall provided with seats, a fire, a table, a copy of the Sacred Scriptures, in a: I very shabby, snuff-coloured coat, issued by the British and Foreign Bible Society, and sold under cost-price tenpence," other literature in the shape of railway announcements and time- tables, and a suggestion of the fine arts in the way of coloured pictures by the great Vandaub of Brighton, Scarborough, Morecambe Bay,! Penzance, and other places, with impossible blue seas, improbable blue skies, and reckless golden sands. First, second, and third classes tub shoulders, for the nonce, on terms of perfect; liberie et egalite. Mr. Austin Denton draws a chair towards the fire and his rug over his knees, and peruses in turn the pages of a Christmas annual by Mr. j Farjeon, and the faces of his fellow-travelters. I Misery, says a trite truism, makes us acquainted with strange bed-fellows. Railway travelling, I likewise, introduces us to many phases of life and character. It is Christmas time, and there are more people than usual travelling. The men, it may be noted, stand round the fire as closely as Ghebers; one of them is a soldier in a line regiment—let us hope he1 will face the fire of the enemy as steadfastly as he does the fire of this stove; the ladies are left in the outer circle to the warmth of their natural affec- tions. With that single drop of ink for a mirror which was used by the Egyptian sorcerer to recall the events of the past, let me show you the little group that Austin Denton sees to-night. There is a little fat man with a little fat woman, like himself, and a little fat dog like them both, and a little fat Christmas hamper, like all three; there is a strange old lady, in old-fashioned flounces, with an astonished face, that wears a continual look of incredulous surprise; and there is a country- man with a grin that spreads all over his face and into the station, and with loamy soil enough on his big boots to constitute him a landed proprietor. There are several members of a theatrical company. You can always detect travelling Thespians. They do not bear the brand of Cain; and Roscius does not ride by rail in sock and buskin; but still you know that close-shaven melancholy man yonder ia a low comedian, and that droll man, with the magnetic eyes, a heavy tragedian. The lady with the worn, haggard face who is enveloped in an ulster, and is the jealous guardian of a small wicker basket you know at once to be the proud Pauline, the frivolous Lady Teazle, the devoted Desdemona, the gentle Juliet, the sweet Ophelia, and the terrible Lady Macbeth of the company; while the sprightly young person with the sealskin jacket and coquettish hat is, you guessed right, the sing- ing chambermaid or the pert page and who can he be, with the spruce cut of clothing, who keeps oscillating between the waiting-room and the re- freshment-bar, but the heroic lover who is always turning up at a critical crisis just in time to save shrieking virtue in white muslin ? There is—God lielp him !—a wasted man in hodden grey, with arrows shooting in black ink all over his clothes. There are two police-officers with him He is being taken from a penal settlement to give evidence at a forthcoming trial. See! a little child toddles up to the criminal and looks at his clothes, with curious wonder. He contemplates the floor, and thinks" maybe, of the time when he, too, was an innocent child with all the splendid chances of life before him, and wishes that he were only a little child now, and had the same possibilities again. Of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these: 'It might have been! But one face in particular strikes Hr. Austin Denton. It is a pale flower-like face. Tenderness and refinement are written in the features; pride and sensitiveness are expressed in the mouth; the clear grey eyes are the shining windows of a transparent soul. The fair owner of that fair face is dressed in mourning, so neatly that M. Worth, even, with Parisian art, costly material, and combination of colour, could not make a more tasteful and winning picture. She is young, and she is alone. That corded trunk, with the bit of bright flannel tied to the handle, is her luggage. Perhaps she is only a governess, earning, maybe, £10 per annum less than the red- nosed cook in the rich man's family to which she is supposed to impart a knowledge of Latin, French, German, Italian, music, and the use of the globes. Facing this divinity with the dulcet eyes and sweet little mouth, is a man whose aggressive moustache, loud attire, affected eye-glass, and de- monstrative jewellery, lend additional vulgarity to a sufficiently vulgar person. He has a low ap- pearance in spite of his pseudo-swell "make-up. His face is a patent of bad character. This thing with the eye-glass surveys the pale retiring young lady. He promenades the room, emitting obnoxious clouds from an offensive cigar, and turns round to meet the sensitive innocent face. He surveys her with such impudent nonchalance, that he might be a Mussulman; connoisseur of Circassian slave girls. Satyr and nymph; dove and hawk; eagle and lamb; gazelle and tiger. She shrinks from the indignity of his gross gaze, and turns for refuge to the pages of a book in her lap. Mr. Austin Denton, watch- ing the proceedings, moves his foot nervously. It itches. Just at this moment a train of lighted car- riages bursts into the station. There is a ringing of bells, a movement on the platform—commotion everywhere. Mr. Austin Denton catches the in- fection, and repairs to the platform to see what the arrival is but, no, it is not his up-express. He is returning to the waiting-room to the heroine in } 'k, when are JO", old hoy ?" is shouted in his emplT hearty thump on the back by way ? of  "What, don't you know me, Austin? You've surely not forgotten Nat p" "Nat!" He was always called Nat. Nat at school; Nat at coUege; Nat at his club. Nat he is still called Nat will appear on his coffin-plate. No one ever heard his other name, be it Planta- genet, Tudor, Stuart, Brown, or Smith. I believe it was Lord Lyttonwho placed it on record that a man never achieves greatness whose friends habitu- ally him Wdlie after he has attained the age °i^VT8- I SUppose the same remark ap- plies to the familiar diminutive "Nat." But no "Forge you. Of course not. 'Can a mother forget her —tut what a beard you have "grown? It  hke a dense door mat," says Austin. \?v i ea; were no barbers in Jaoan Austin m soy to hear that Nat is travelling ia the oposlte. directIOn to himself, for h?has?o! ?nh?oldchumforfouryearsormore ?aS    ?  of n raIlway lIne In ap iheir steps mutually incline to the refreshmant room, and they wish each other very good luck in very bad wlwsky" on? g:1a;ss. oî 'vhich, is liquid. 1eadache, tW()' ft¡ dat'S illness {& ud three ««8 & I" PI t h tun "? ? ? about ?PM. and he ha.ö a ? companion with.. "sJ1a. Scotchman, one Bill; to wttoni he refers In stantiation of his strange experiences in that strange land. "We might have made that bit of line quite straight, mightn't we, Bill? But the Engineer- in-chief was a born humourist and he laid it out all on sharp curves. to show the Japs how to cut and carve about,' he said. Didn't be, Bill?" IBiu always nodded complete assent, interesting himself meanwhile in that subtle alcohol for which Ironby Junction is notorious, if not famous. Why, Austin, dea boy, here ae the very bUM that were on this counter when I left for the P. & O. boat nearly five years ago, and I can swear to the identity of that sausage roll, the one with the end bashed in." "You won't have another whisky, Austin? Tee you win. I had the last with you; it's my turn now. You won't, really ? Well, you are getting effeminate. Why, when we were in Japan two of us would go into a liquor shanty there where Bass's malt wine was arrayed in rows on shelves, and buy a shelf a-piece at a time; and drink it on the premises. Didn't wo. Bill ? We would make for the Boss of the store, and one of us would say, 'that second shelf is mine,' and he would fetch the bottles down, and then the other friend would say to the proprietor, Just fetch me down that lot on the third shelf. Wouldn't he, BilU" Mr. Austin Denton grows somewhat ashamed of his own modest bibulous capacity and consents to ft second sixpenny worth of the Dew of Ben Nevis," in plain English—fusel oil. "I'm glad I've got to the old country in time for Christmas, Austin," remarks Nat, regarding; the sprig of holly that decorates the room. Last Christmas Tremember we spent at a little settlement outside Yokohama. We railway men were located in timber-houses,-two rooms each; one a dining-room, the other a bedroom, both on the same level, for the houses were all single storied. A wooden partition divided the apart- ments; I gave a Yuletide party to a lot of English fellows. We had a real plum-pudding, and such a pantomime afterwards. One of the boys would be the harlequin; and he jumped slick through the deal partition dividing the dining-room from the bedroom, and then rushed through another wall of wood into another fellow's place. Didn't he. Bill ? Talk about Hans Breitmann's party It couldn't hold. a candle to ours out there. The boys showed! their appreciation of my hospitality by smashing aU my bottles and glasses. At last the bedroom ewers were requisitioned to hold the drink, and we had to run a special train down to Yokohama the next morning to buy a teapot before we could have breakfast. Didn't we. Bill?" It is Bill's turn now topay for the round of the "Dew of Ben Nevis." Be insists on his right; and. his invitation is too imperative to admit of re- fusal. Dr. Austin Denton basi just swallowed his third glass of grog when the upepre88 thunders into the station, and the Mends say at* revoir boisterously. There ia a bustle on the platform and. Austin, oatcheluightof the timid waiting-room beauty. But she ialost again in the surge of the encompassing crowd. He secures a flrst-class mupe to himself, and the train forges forward with swift pant into the bleak, black night. He has ninety odd miles before him, so he pulls on his Glengarry cap, ad- justs his rug, and endeavours to read. Vain ex- periment. The type is dancing the Can-Can." "What horrid whisky!" he observes aloutl shifting his position. He closes his eyes. He will have forty winks. But his head swims, and his seat seems now sinking; sinking, sinking to unut- terable depths, then he is moving upward to im- possible heights to fall swiftly from the giddy altitude into the precipitous deep again. And then he falls into a sleep—a deep, strong aleep. What is it that, when thus slumbering, aronpes him to a sense of semi-consciousness, and makes him rub his eyes with a start? There is no sound but the roll of the train. But listen! An alter- cation. It comes from the next compartment. There is a shrill cry—a woman's appeal for help Insensate! It is but the shriek of the engine passing a signal-box, or the scream of the northern blast. Compose yourself, startled- sleeper. But listen The altercation again. Austin Denton lets down the carriage window and looks out. The wind-driven rain pricks his face like a thousand sharp needle points. He i withdr Lwing his head from the buffetings of the storm when lo! the window of the next compart- ment goes down, and he catches sight of a daintily gloved hand endeavouring to clutch at the clumsy cord communication at the top of the carriage. A big jewelled vulgar hand restrains the delicate dibits. A handwith a loud signet ring, and finger nails in half-mourning. Austin has a carriage key in his possession. He unlocks the door of his own compartment, and, closing it behind him, stands upon the treacherous carriage step as the express, with a shriok.a rattle, and a roar, tears down an incline. He has committed himself to a perilous pro- ceeding. A special Providence seems to give him a charmed life. The urgent train is rushing along at a sensational speed1. The demons of the air blusteriugly threaten to sweep him off his narrow foothold. The Glengarry is carried from his head down the line. Now the train plunges into the darkness of a vault-like tunnel. A fierce whirl- wind threatens his destruction. Flakes of fire flutter past him on the shuddering wet wall; strange echoes are flying; unearthly voices seem* to clamour in competition for his life. Heelings to the carriage for his very existence. Presently the train is out into the open again. In a few seconds Austin's carriage key turns the lock of tho compartment to which a suspicion of foiu play has committed him to so desperate an enterprise. Behold! the occupants of the carriage are the sweet, sensitive girl in black and the offensive man with the melo-dramatic moustache! The wretch still retains the hand of the fair traveller. There is a savage scowl of defiance in his eye as Austin springs, like an infuriated mastiff, at the craven throat. They grapple together. The villain is a big, burly, muscular fellow Austin is small oi stature, nervous, and delicate. But ? sense of right endows him with a strength of sinew not his own, and at last he pins his op- ponent, panting and exliausted, in a corner of the coinpart.ucnt. There is a world of gratitude in the bright glance of c g.adness from the tremulous girl whose honour he has champi ned. Suddenly the train slackens at a stopping place. By a gymnastic effort the Man with the Moustache dives through the opposite door to lie platform. Austin follows the rascally mgitive. Again they close with each other in a strangely-matched struggle. Again it is Abe that is conquering Cain; when I¡i Mr. Austin Denton experiences a decisive tap on 'us shoulder, and becomes suddenly aware of the presence of a conscientious, but slightly petulant rail way collector with a lamp, who is waiting to ex- amine his ticket, and with whom he has been violently grappling under the delusion that he was trying conclusions with a donMe-breasted, double- barrelled villain! Yat". whisky hud'made the waiting-room beautu T^ he Heroine of the Up-Express.

AN exchange tells of a young lady who, after a happy marriage of six months, on being asked if she was much troubled with cold feet, simpered hesitatingly, and with simplicity replied, "Y c- .xes; but—they re aot my own." WHY are ladles tlie tlggest thieves in, existence ? cause they steel petticoats, bone their stays; crib their babies, and hook their eyes. WHY are a pair of trousers too big. every way, like two French towns?—Because they are too long and too loose (Toulon and Toulouse). WHY do young ladies of the present day brace themselves in so tight?—Why, to show the young gentlemen how much squeezing they can stand. WHY should a bird with a wing, and another without a wing, always disagree ?—Because there is a difference of a pinion (opinion) between them. WHAT is the di^ fference between a king without the power of speech and the British Isles ?—Be- cause one is a dumb king and the other a kingdom. WHAT word is that of five letters which, if two letters be taken away, only one remains ?—Monev Talce "m": nd "Yi" away, and one remain-4. WHY is the human eye the strictest of all monitors ?—Because it keepsi its pupils constantly under the lash, and gives them a hiding every night. WHY is a rifleman firing wide from his target like a man who blacks his wile's eye?—Because one misses his mark, and the other marks his missus. WHEW is a woman not a woman ?-IV]ion she is a little ckih, or when she is a belle or when she becomes a botinet; or when she is (c-bcd; or wueu she is a deer. Winpare ladies like watches?-Because they are pretty to look at, have sweet faces and delicat3 hands, but somewl, at difficult to regulate after they are set agoing. WlIY are young ladies the greatest prize fighters i- n the world ?—Because they are always: open to enter the ring and make a match with any man twice their size. WitAT is the difference between the Prince of Wales and a football, when a player has had a thl'ow in ?'-One is heir to the throne, the other is thrown to the air. WHY should a coachman be the last person who ought to be allowed to become a member of any Sick Benevolent or Friendly Society?-Becausehe.ts always on the BQ. P?inted at tbe AdIJeTti8er and General Pl'ilF tilig EstablUh- Music Hall), Market Square Wre^W. County of Denbigh and published ™ ani Saturdays at the above 4i}ffices, and aW !M"'m"'t of M? Thomas Offices High W Vxi l0lu t1' in the County of Flint; at the shop Voi f Mrs Erasmus Edwards, C(,rwen, in the County of X h \afc Mr C* G. I,' The Gross, Oswestry, In the County of gilop; an(! at the Est\bhsh- menroPsfr Wm. ^lri Ma.rket PIa^' Chester, m the County of Chester by SELINA B.WLKY, 8, Kins? ,,trpe'L$ Wrextiam aforesai4- GHARLF,* OEORGE BAYT.KY, Tha Cro88,Oswe.aroresaid'; and ORORC. E BRVDIPV, Grove "lexham, aforesaid-Decemb 21?, 188?