Wrexham and Denbighshire Advertiser and Cheshire Shropshire and North Wales Register

OUR LADIES' COLUMN. BY ONE OF THEMSELVES. I » ———— OW TO DO GOOD.-A VILLAGE NI IJ.SK.—A TRUE J^OHLKMAX.—GOOD XUKSINO ANII ITS VALUE.—A TOUCHING MKMKNTO.—Tin-: OLU HOSPITAL OF ST. CROSS.—AX AMI:SIN<; IJlhH GosslP.—FLOKAt. GIKTS.-AKUM LLI.IKS.— GKKEN CARNATIONS.— GISEKX FI.OWKI.-S.— MLGXONETTIS.— AN ISDKiSAKf Fl.OKIST.—A RECIPE FOR OSION SALAD, It is not always that the best way of doing good seems to present itself to the mimls of those who are willing-and ready to help others, if rimy only knew how; but just now I alll gi-eill-y interested in hearing the unvarnished staU-meuL of all agent in th« matter, ns to the SUCCESS ut a generous and philanthropic1 sdicme toast's* the inhabitants of sr.r.z outlying villages not far from Winchester, to live through (lie terrible epidemic of influenza, w'lich attacked them ifercely, aud which ha.l it not been for (he prompt measure J ta ken, might. have destroyed numbers of valuable lives. Country doctors in every district had mure than they could do during the prevalence of the plague, and often indeed I h »y sue .-limbed them- selves to its attacks. II. was so in the district of which I write—Michehliver, in Hampshire, and its little outlying villa-res. Jlere at, tit rat ton, in a grand old mansion, fives nnood and enlightened nobleman-Thws. Geo. Baring, Eurl of North- brook. Would we had more landowners like him! When his people around him—his tenantry and poor neighbours—fell sick of the scourge he at once sent to London for a trained and skilful nurse to come to the rescue, and lie put her up in his own mansion most comfortably, providing every appliance for her use and comfort. Sister Mary, as she is called, is a capable, sensible, kind hearted Irish woman, who loves to relieve Suffering, and with her knowledge of disease and a carte-blancht' from his Lordship to order whatever was necessary for the poor sick folk, one can imagine what a ministering angel she would be. The relief to the over- worked doctor was incredible, for she knew exactly the oases where his skilled and profes- sional knowledge was necessary, and used her own discretion where he could be spared. How much better was the nursing and care of this devoted woman for the stricken villagers than the perfunctory services of a whole army of young doctors who might have been called in to help in the emergency. I have at this moment the advantage of Sister Mary's kind help in my own house, and I well know the difference between the strong capable hand s and decided notions as to the treat IIlCllt of an invalid, and the irritating indecision and want of power which some women otTer as help in a sick room. There is plenty of time for gossip in a con- valescent's chamber, and I have improved the occasion lately by listening to Sister Maryjs ex- periences during her heneficentexpedition. Never before, I suppose, had many of these country yokels extended their ablutions beyond their hands and their faces, and when the well-trained nurse appeared at the bedside with a basin of warm water, soap, and towels, and commenced to wash the feet of one good old church goer, above 70 years of age, he almost gasped with surprise, but after the operation was over he exclaimed with true Biblical satisfaction and uplifted eyes, "Lord, not only my feet, but also my head and my hands." The good nobleman frequently visited his poor neighbours himself, and occasionally accompanied Sister Mary in her rounds. She found an old superannuated shep- herd living in a poor comfort less hut, already con- denlned to come down by his Lordship, with no one at all to look after him, for he has neither kith nor kin, and is upwards of SO years old, absolutely crouched up by the bit of fire, dying of inanition and congestion of the lungs, but she at once took him in hand, and brought him round, and his first intelligible words when he recovered his senses were" Oh, ma'am how good you are-likely now you'll take them little Iambs and bring them to—why they're all a dying of cold, and his Lordship won't like it," but un- fortunately Sister Mary did not include the lambs in her mission of mercy, though she was very sorry for them. She tells me that there were tubs full of delicious mutton broth, and beef tea freshly made daily for the unrestricted use of the invalids, who only required an order from Sister Mary, to obtain as much as they wanted at the big House. Above 1300 patients were treated by the indefatigable nurse and the doctor during the epidemic, and so the people were saved. Sister Mary left her princely host, and grateful patients with regret at. the end of a month, after seeing them all on t he fair way tore, newed health, and on the morning of her depar- ture she was surprised to be presented by the House Steward with a little box in the name of all the tenantry and villagers—it contained a beautiful golden cross of a size suitable to wear rounil her neck, with her name and the name of theparisit of "Stratton" inscribed on it, of which the villagers begged her acceptance as a mementoof her kind- ness and care. The form of this lovely cross is that of the cross of the old Hospital of St. Cross near Winchester, founded in 1130 by Henry de Blois, Bishop of Winchester, for the benefit of 13 poor old men and about 100 others. To this day the charter is kept up, for any wayfarer or traveller passing by the gate of the old place and craving refreshment will receive a small loaf and a mug of good ale to help him on his journey. Sister Mary loves to talk of the good Earl, of his generous and substantial acknowledgment of her work in his villages, and his kindness to all around him, and as an Irishwoman she wishes nothing better for her distressed country than a few such resident landowners on Irish son as Geo. Baring, Earl of Nortlibrook. It is infinitely amusing to hear her talk in her Irish way and we cannot regret the access of temporary illness, illness which made her services as welcome in our own household, as they were amongst the peasants of Hampshire. Temporarily shut out from the many pleasures and diversions of London during the bad weather, which is pronounced dangerous to convalescents from influenza, my friends who some to tell me to take care of myself and to report the latest gossip, frequently accompany their news and advice with a pleasing offering and a vivid description of the last new fancy in the fashions and contents of the shops. Not only do I get flowers of the most lovely kind, but also some of the most curious. Amongst, the first I am to-day rejoicing in the presence of J six magnificent arum lilies or Richardias, as they are called horticulturally; mixed with ferns and their own beautiful green heart-shaped leaves, standing nobly in a tall opal vase, which almost transform my London room into a conservatory, with a bunch of sweet scented lilies of the valley, and my own majestic and never failing asperdestras in the background. These beautilul arum or trumpet lilies travelled safely to me from Preston, in Lancashire, and were welcomed hy a cry of joy when we opened their little packing-case this morning. Moreover, they came from a kind friend and reader of "Penelope," whom I never saw, but with whom I have long corresponded, and who never fails to respond to any deserving cry for help amongst my East End waifs and strays when I mention them occasionally. Fear- ing, I suppose, that my numerous lovely floral gifts may become embarrassing, one enterprising friend presented me to-day with a green carna- tion, saying at the same time this is the newest thing in 'button-holes.' Make haste and get well and come out again." And how the swells delight in these ugly flowers-no fashionable man now appears without, one. The great aesthete Oscar Wilde himself was seen to wear one on the first night of his new play, Lady Windermere's Fan," but then I remarked he also ventured to appear nonchalantly smoki g a cigarette, as he addressed his appreciative audience. If he would do that, and so far outrage public opinion, and propriety of behaviour, he would do anything; so his endorsement of a fashion which was already the rage in Paris, is no recommendation to me. Neither, indeed, does the appearance of the flower commend itself to me. It has no beauty of its own, but seems to me like an ill-used and utterly destroyed speci- men of the lovely creamy-white carnations which are so beautiful in our gardens in the summer. This poor unattractive hybrid has lost all its charm, for it is simply a spoiled white carnation, sprinkled all over with a sort of hideous tint of verdigris, which, when seen in contrast with the bluish green of the natural carnation foliage, is very inharmonious and ugly. Of course, from its very novelty, this flower is costly two or three shillings are charged for one ghastly blossom and a little bud, and I devoutly hope, that its reign will be but short. Moreover, I believe they are all grown in France, and I do not think English growers would condescend to such vagaries. As I look at this green and sickly flower I almost expect to discover that its petals are painted in the same way as the wings and feathers of a poor little sparrow I once bought in the street as a goldfinch, but whost first bath was fatal to his false plumage. The only pleasant green flower that I can call to mind fit to wear as a decoration is the mignonette, and then it combines delicacy and beauty of form with a delicious scent. The wild mignonette which grows on the South and East coast I have often gathered, and it is altogether green, without the little sprinkling of yellow or brown which we observe in our garden plants. Whilst writing about this green carnation a good reliable florist looked in with a bunch of daffodils, and I questioned him about this new daffodils, "Oh," said he, "I have nothing to do with such artificial things, they are uyed In Paris Madam, I know it," and with an indig- nant look he set down his beautiful natural daffodils and retired. For people who like onions, (which really are the basis of all piquant sauces,) and are not ashamed to say so, here is a recipe for a most delightful digestible and fragrantly tasty salad. It comes from a friend of mine, a bon vivant, who for the sake of my readers, in whom he is always much interested, and perhaps a little bit for myself, is always sweetly ready to give me his choicest and best recipes. It will be noticed that this recipe closelyapproximates to apotatosalad, directions for the concoction of which I got from the stiine source a year or two ago, and gave to my readtys as "food fit for the gods." But this is not- the .same. In a potato salad very little onion is used, oand that raw and finely minced; whilst in onioll saad the onion is partly cooked, and forms the priucii-ingredient. Take some Spanish onions and boil in the usual manner until they are h. little more than half cooked. Put them aside fcT some hours to drain, and pet quite cold. Then dd nearly an equal quantity of sliced ripe tomatoes, and a little sliced cold potato. Dress with oil, vinegar and pepper to taste. Be sure to use the good old- fashioned brown vinegar, and religiously eschew the flavourless white variety, which as often as not consists largely of acetic acid. My gourmet friend confesses to me "I have often envied the working man who is privileged to make a hearty meal from a hunch of bread and a raw onion without fear of consequences. He crunches away ignorant of, or utterly ignoring the effect of, his food on the olfactory nerves of family and friends." Now, in the recipe I have just given there is something at which one can crunch to one's heart's content. My readers know that Spanish onions are much milder in flavour than home-grown, and the semi-cookimr seems to do away with the worst effects of eating raw onions, namely, making one's self a nuisance to one's neighbour. Some of my readers may think that my tastes are low and vulgar. Really. I sometimes think they must be so, I like so many common things. I should not, however, recommend anyone to indulge in this toothsome food before going say to a ball or evening crush, for, as in more impor- tant matters, discretion must be observed. lhave another original recipe which may please some of my readers. It is for a favouritl OrienLal dish, and is particularly liked by children, to whom it may be safely given. It is known as Dbiill, and is made thus Frv an Ollinll minced small in butter, add a d(s;ei-t spoonful of curry powder. Wash a break- fast cupful of Egyptian lentils, and put them in a saucepan of white stock which covers the lentils about an inch. Simmer them gently, adding slock as it reduces. When the lentils are quite soft stir in the fried onion with them, mix well, simmer for a few minutes, and serve with boiled rice. London, Thursday. PENELOPE. TO CORRESPONDENTS. I T.M., Birmingham.—It is not essential to pay a call after an At home," but it is polite to do so, and perhaps an excuse for calling. If you do call. leave, as you suggest, one of your own cards and two of your husband's. Calls are always expected after dining at a house or attetidiijg any more important function than a mere" At. home." ENQUIRER.—I have succeeded in procuring one of Dolby's Meat Extractors, like the one I pur- chased 20 years ago and could never replace, at Bennett's, Lime-st., Liverpool, and now we can always have a supply of the exquisite beef tea which this little machine makes. It can he had of various sizes, and I find is manufactured by Griffiths and Browett, Bradford-st., Birming- ham, and 21, Moorgate-st., London. I am glad to have made this discovery for my own sake, as well as that of my readers, for my own little machine is well-nigh worn out.

COMIC PAPEIl CUTTINGS. I [From "PUNCH."] I ? -? PASSING IT ON.Itupert gust oacK from senooi, where he has been tremendously fagged) Look here, AlIgy, if you behave yourself decently, and don't smash anything, you shall finish the jam-when I've quite done A TRAGEDY ON THE GREAT No ItTifERN. Scene, A third-class carriage time, three hours before the next station dramatis pcrsonce, Jones and Kobinsou. "It's the last '-and it'.i a Taudstickor. It'll only strike on the box "Strike it on the box, then ;— but for Heaven's sake, be careful Yes but, like a fool, I've just pitched the box out of the window "THE MEETING OF THE WATERS."—The engincer8 of London and Birmingham have been requested, says the Daily Teleyraph, to "lay their head* together," so as to see if an amicable arrangement cannot be effected. This is an instance where to have water on the brain is absolutely necessary. Odd to think that in this water difficulty are con- tained all the elements of a burning question so much so indeed, that the engineers who may be clever enough to solve the problem without getting themselves into hot water, may confidently be ex- pected to follow up their achievement by proceeding to set the Thames on fire." QUEER QUERIES.—Currency Reform.—I see that the Chancellor of the Exchequer intends to call in light sovereigns. The sovereigns I have all seem to be tolerably heavy, so would there be any objection to my lightening them by taking some of the gold off, and keeping it ? This would form a nice little metallic reserve for me, a thing which Mr. Goschen seems to approve of. Would not an appropriate motto, to be inscribed on the new One Pound Note, be-" Quid, pro quo ?"— Sly-metallist. IFroni "FU-N."] A political coincidlIce with a difference -Lord Salisbury is very fond of his nephew, but Mr. Glad- stone prefers his Nice. "It's all very well," said Gasper, to talk about a. stitch in time saving nine. I know jolly well that having a stitch in tny side made me lose the 930." A REGULAR HASH.— Chef Balfour to Pitti-ick See what a savoury stew I have made for you," and the Emerald Inlander, who is far from being as verdant as the land of his birth, shakes his head an 1 replies, Stew, is it ? Bedad, son', that mess looks to me more like a hash OUR GRANDMOTHERS KNEW THE TIlICKo-Dr. Switcherley With you, Fluuiply Major, I am deeply shocked. What excuse can you hope to advance, or how can you attempt to palliate the atrocious crime of purloining the produce of my hen- roost 3" Plumpton Major (sobbing) P-p-p-please, sir, it was all Suckingtan Minor's fault! He—he egged me on TFROM JUDY. I All aldermen hope some day to fiud a Lord Mayor's nest. OH, TERI'SICHORH'-Sile Are you fond of lie:" Awflly," She: Why don't you learn 1" ENCOURAGING.—The advertisement of my matinee id in the paper this morning. You'll come, Mary?" "1 can't come on Tuesday, dear. I'm one of Cissy's bridesmaids." Do you mean to say you'll throw me over for Cisay ?" Oti second thoughts, I don't think I will, for I may never have a chauce of seeing your play again."

Gratitude is a last touch of beauty added last f all to the countenance, giving a classic be<,uty. ill angelic loveliness, to the character. Merchant: "And what are y"u going to do now that you have left e,)Ile);e ?" Graduate: I have not decided. Is there any opening with you ?" Merchant "1\0; unless I took you in as senior partner and general manager, and I suppose that would hardly satisfy you." A woman in Yorkshire recently told a clergyman that her husband having been di^atisfied with the Baptists and Congregationalists had left both, and was now, she thought, a Yarmouth Bloater." What she really meant, was that he had becomo a Ply- mouth Brother." Photographer Raise the chin a little, please." Victim Am I all right otherwise ?" Yes." "J ust want the chin a little Iiiglierl" Yes. That's all." Anything to accommodate you." (Takes out his false teeth, closes his m nth, and his chin comes up to his nose). The following quaint epitaph on husband and wife —the husband having died first—is to be seen in one of the Parisian cemeteries: — "I am anxiously expecting you—A.D. 1827." "Here I am-A.D. 1867." So the good woman was 40 years in making up her mind to follow her husband. He: And do you mean to tell me that you engaged yourself to me for mere caprice, intending all the while to throw me over V She: "Net exactly: but I'm writing a novel, and I've got to have an aged lover in it. I needed a model, and so I —ah—shall I send you a copy of the book ?" How did you like the reading ?" asked a gentle- man of an old lady, who had attended an entertain- ment given by a noted elocutionist. 011, ever so much I thought. that piece about Cte-ar crossing the ltubicorn was splendid, and so was that one about the 'One lioss Shay.' I always did like Shakspere. Father: "Johnny, there's a button off your coat. Go upstairs and sew it on." Little Johnny (in sur- prise) Mother will sew it on." Father "I know she will, but I want you to learn to sew on buttons yourself." Johnny (amazed): "Why?" Father (solemnly) Some day, Johnny, when you grow up, you won't have any mother—nothing but a wife." Omnibus driver (to quiet stranger in suburban road) Hi, mister, jest hotd tttat'ere horse's head for a minute while I get down, will yer ?" Stranger (nervously) Wh-wh-which one?" Why, the off 'un, to be sure good man, I am totally unacquainted with horses, and it is quite impossible fo: 111 to tell which of your animals is an orphan." M-i.-trr: Well, Susan, did you post my lelt.-r, as I told you?" Faithful Servant Yes, j' hut I ha i it weighed first, and as it was doabie w.-iglit I put on anvtber stamp." Master: Good girl but I you did not put it on so as to obliterate the addiess Faithful Servant Oh, no, indeed, sir I jus' stuck it on the top of the other stamp so as to save room." A married man, who had been dining out, not wisely but too well, staggered home among the small hours, and, getting into bed as quietly as possible, at ouce put up his umbrella. "What tomfoolery are you after now ?" inquired his indignant wife. Only preparing for the storm, deai est," The soft answer li (I turned away wrath, as the wife could only turn on the other side and hugh. Joiiiiiiv," asked lluole John, smilingly, "do you enjoy going to ¡s..llOn!" Y' V 9< Johnnv, trr;} TI l'atlocr go than iiOb. T liit's the right spirit, Johnny," said John, eucOuiagaigly. Aud what did you do at school t(,-(Iav "I put a draw- ing-pin under Bill Marks, and I gave him a lickin* afterwards for tellin' the teacher. That's what I di< s-ud little Johnny, proudly, wilh a gleam of en thusiitsm in his eyes. hcu the 1 ite Rev. Dr. Lawrie was examining a tew of Ills parishioners, he asked John Anderson, a St Jul farmer, to repeat the Tenth Commandment. Join, stumbled on as far as tlioa shalt not covet thy neighbour's ln.-uso," and then stopped. "Come e C u e oil, said the Doctor, shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife. Na, 11a," said John, "nane o' that, Doctor. line clleuch to (lac \i' oor TiHnie at liaine to want o::y man's v.te." A young physician had among his first patients an uncommonly unclean infant brought in the arms of a m Iher. whose face showed the same abh< rrenec of soap. Looking ilown upon the child a moment, he spl:nlH1" re:narkc(1. It seams to be -illiyL!iill.9 from hydropathic hydrophobia." Ueh, doether dear, is it as bad as that ?" cried the mother. a big sickness for such a mite. Whatever shall I do for the crathnr ?" 11 Wa,li its face, madam the diseas# I will go off with the dirt." "Wash its face—wash ita face, iil();I(lc exclaime(I the matron, losing bar temper. What next, I'd like to know?" "WMII your own, iiiadam-wmli your owu."

AGRICULTURE. Mr Murphy, an Ennis farmer, applied to tli# l:i.nd jury for compensation for poisoned cattle, He cook a farm on Deer Island, Lord Leconfield's estate, from which a tenant had been evicted. His cattl. began to die, and experiments by veterinary surgeons showed that they were poisoned. The grand jury granted the claim. AGRICULTURAL SEED TRADE, LONDON, Wednesday. —Messrs. John Shaw and Sons, seed merchants, of Great Maze Pond, London, S.E., report a greatly improved feeling in the trade, considerable quantities of cloverseeds having changed hands at full prices. American red especially exhibit a substantial advance. Other varieties are steady. More doing in tares. Canaryseed is now cheaper in London than Liverpool, which is most unusual. Peas in improved request. Mustard and rapeseed firm. Linseed dull. Haricots unchanged.

HORSE BREEDING IN NORTH WALES. I Once again the annual show at Islington, held by the Royal Commission on Horse Breeding, has brought us face to face with the problem of finding such sires as shall repay the farmer for his outlay, risk, and inconvenience. Fortunately for Wales, Mr Pratt has solved this problem. His wonderful thoroughbred stallion, "Eglamore," who last year was successful in obtaining the Queen's Premium, has again this year outstripped his competitors, and carried off the premier honors. Pride of the Vale," a magnificent specimen of the shire stallion coming from the same stud, took high honois in London last week, and now we are informed that Mr Pratt, in a very public and spirited way, has decided to add a high-class hackney stallion to his already incomparable stud. Let us wish him the success he so well deserves.

FARMING AND THE CORN TRADE. The Mark Lane Express of Monday says:— The year is generally seasonable, the promise of the growing wheat is excellent, and spring sowings look like being more extensive than usual. Farmers' dis- satisfaction is mainly directed to prices which, during the month just closing, have pursued a very dis- couraging course. The large supply of American flour, which at 288 per sack fairly undersells English country flour at the same price, has had much to do with this depression. For the cheap and rapid dissemination of imported flour at the inland and local, as well as the port markets, the farmer has to thank the arrangement between the leading shipping and railway companies, which intensifies the results of foreign competition and places the farmer at unfair odds of freight and transit charges in a struggle where. with respect to the absolute quality of his wheat, he is already well nigh, if not fully, matched.

IIUABON DISTRICT PLOUGHING SOCIETY. A ploughing match, in connection with this Society, was held on Monday, in a field lent for the occasion by Mr Humphrey Morris, of Cadwgan Farm. Fourteen teams competed, eight in the local and six in the open classes, and the work done was of the most admirable kind. The judges were:—For the turnouts, Mr Job Lea, Gwersyllt, and Mr Godfrey Parry, Llansantffraid, near Corwen ploughing, Mr Duckworth, of the Moor Farm, Hawarden, and Mr T. Edwards, of Gyfelia, Llangollen. Of the turnouts, t le following were the winners GENTLEMEN'S CLASSo-l, H. D. Dennis, ploughman Edward Pentington; 2, Edward Evans, BronwyJfa, plough- man, John Evans; 3, W. C. Hughes, Fennant, ploughman, Evan Evans. TENANTS' CLASS.-I, Jesse Roberts, Higher Berse ploughman, Hobert Davies; 2, Matthew Phillips, of Hafodybwch, ploughman, John Davies; 3, Joseph Thomas, Hafodybwch, ploughman, Aline Thomas; 4, Humphrey Morris, CadwKan, ploughman, John Jackson. PLOUGHING. OPEN CLASS.-l. Thomas Hughes, Pen- rhos, Brymbo; 2. Thomas W. Dunn, Rhos; 3, Aaron Evans, Felen Kant. LOCAL CLASSo-l, Robert Davies, Higher Berse; 2, Edward Koberts, Pantglas, Ituabon; 3, Aline Thomas, Hafodvbwch; 4, John Evans, Bronwylfa; 5, Evan Evans Fennant; 6, Edward Penlington, New Hall; 7, John Jackson, Cadwgan Farm. The judging took a long time, and it was almost dark before the results were known; the result gave general satisfaction, and votes of thanks were unani- mously accorded the judges.

AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION IN NORTH WALES. pi For some years past the University College 01 Bangor has been engaged in organising a complete system of education in the six northern counties of Wales, and has been fortunate in securing the co- operation of land-owners and farmers, as well as the County Council, in the work. The Board of Agricul- ture has taken great interest in the work thus started by the college, and in its last annual report referred to it as an example which other parts of the county should follow. The College itself has raised for this purpose an annual subscription of about X800, and the Board of Agriculture has supplemented the voluntary contributions by a grant of 1200, which was raised in 1890 to zE400, and in 1891 to S-500. Last autumn Mr Brooke-Hunt, inspector of the Board of Agriculture, visited the College and its various agriculture centres in North Wales, and conducted an inquiry into the work carried on by the Agricultural Department of the College, and in reply to an appli- cation from the College for an increased grant the following reply has been received:— AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION. I FABLIAMENTAIIY GRANT. FINANCIAL, YEAH, 1890-91. I Application dated 27th June, 1891, made by W. Cadwaladr Davies, on behalf of the University College of Korth Wales, Bangor, 23rd February, 1892. SIR,—I am directed by the Board of Agriculture to inform you that they have under consideration this appli- cation, and the report of their inspector thereon, and that they have been pleased to award to the above institution a grant of 1750, in consideration of the agricultural in- struction organised at, and from the above College an a provisional centre, and carried on during the nnancial year ending 31st March, 1892. A draft for this amount is enclosed, made payable, as requested in the above application to P. P. Pennant, Esq., treasurer of the Agricultural Department of the College. The form of acknowledgment enclosed herewith is to be returned to this office. With respect to the keeping of the Agricultural Educa- tion" fund account, the Board understand that it is in- tended in future to show in that account the exact amount received from County Councils, while on the other side of the account will be shown under the heading of County Council A., County Council B., & if thought desirable, the manner in which such grants were expended.—I am, sir, vour obedient servant, T. H. ELLIOT, Secretary. To W. Cadwaladr Davies, Esq,, Secretary, University College of North W ales, Bangor.

COMPETITIVE MEETING AT MOLD. The annual competitive meeting held in connection with the Baptist Chapel and congregation took place at the Town Hall, Mold, on Monday evening. The chair was taken by Mr Alderman David Williams, of Pontypool, and of the Tinplate Works, Mold, and there was a very good attendance, the hall being filled. The Chairman, who was very well received, briefly opened the proceedings, calling upon those present to join in the singing of a congregational hymn. The first business was the recitation of the Spring," but only one young lady appeared, Miss Anna Davies, Bank-place, who did her part so as to elicit loud applause, and receive the prize. Three competed in reading at first sight, the pieces chosen was one from" Rhys Lewis" (Welsh), and Brutus' address from Shakespear's Julius Caesar." Each were deemed equal, and were Masters Owen, Cilcen; W. Eaton, Mold; and Williams, Cunliffe-street, Mold. Two Male Voice Choirs had entered to contest the rendering of By Celia's Arbour," the Acrefair Glee Party and Mynydd Issa. Male Voice Choir. The first party rendered the piece so that the adjudicators had no difficulty in awarding them the prize, the result being received with loua cheers. For the bass solo, Y Cymro Dewr," the prize was awarded for an excellent rendering to Edward Edwards, Cefn Mawr, the other competitor hailing from Mynydd Issa, and not having the same conception of the piece as the winner. For the reading or recitation of The foot's complaint," the prize was given to Maggie Davies, Bank Place, who did her work well, and was the only competitor. For the rendering of the soprano solo, Rwy'n cofio'r adeg ddedwydd," the only competitor was Miss E. G. Burton, Berlin House, who brought down the house, and was awarded the prize. For the tenor solo, Gwlad fy mebyd," there were three "I T 1- ,L competitors, the prize being awaraea to Jonn -malon, Cefn Mawr. Then there was the recitation of the "Danchwa." (Explosion), the prize being awarded to Morgan Davies, Bank Place. Two parties competed in the rendering of a catch song, that of Trevor and Mold, the prize being easily taken by the latter. There was no appearance for the juvenile choir com- petition in rendering Storm the fort of sin," and for the best rendering of the contralto solo, 0 rest in the Lord," the prize was divided between Misses Lewis, Mynydd Issa, and S. E. Price, Mold. Then only one quartett appeared for the rendering of Y Deigryn," that of Mr Hrghes and party, Mold. This was capitally rendered, and received with great applause. Throughout the evening Mr W. Evans (Alaw Mabon) acted as conductor, and on behalf of the committee proposed a vote of thanks to the Chairman, which was seconded by Mr A. Adams, and carried with acclamation. Votes of thanks were also passed to the Rev. J. C. Rees, Coedpoeth, and Mr J. Owen Jones, Penycae, Ruabon, the musical adjudi- cators to Messrs R. Williams, Ffynonfa, and L. Everett, jun., Wrexham-street, adjudicators on the reading and recitations. The Chairman having acknowledged the compliment, the audience sang "Hen Wlad fy Nhadau," Miss Burton taking the solo, and then Gwilym Gwenffrwd, in a few but appro riate words, moved that the meeting pass a vote of con- QoIeuCC with the Baptist community on the death of the late Mr Spurgeon, fliiCi h6 kdft4 tllg 9110wing englyn on the occasion:— Am Spurgeon wiw-lon wylir,-ow, angel Ein rhengoedd ni welir; Ei les clau, ei lais clir, A'i glodydd hyd byth gludir. The vote was agreed to amid impressive silence. 0 It was announced that the Chairman had kmdly given I £2 2? Mr Henry Roberts £ 1 Is, and Dr. Edwards 10s6d. in aid of the funds-those of the Baptist Chapel.

WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT '"—Messrs. Elliman, of Slough, give this title to a unique little publication brought ot for the purpose of advertising Elliman s Embrocation, but made generally attractive by its really exceptionally good illustrations. Mr John Sturgess has drawn a number of striking pictures of hunting coaching, polo, &c., and Mr Stur-ess, jun., has supplied episodes of athletics, &c., the whole covering a. wide range of sport. The illustrations (19 of them) in a larger size are to be obtained sepitrately from the former. They have the ad- vantage that in this form their present commercial associations disappear, and they stand out as really capital pictures upon their own merits. WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT ?" would be sent free for Twopence in stamps, and the 19 Sportino, Prints for P.O. 28 6d. Sent abroad for P.O. Sons and Co., Slough. 2673

ARMY, MILITIA, AND VOLUNTEERS. General Hall has seenred for the North-western District, under his command, ground where field firing is absolutely safe, large enough for the useful tactical training of 3,000 men of all arms, with a good and healthy camping ground and easily accessible, a.t Chipping, near Preston. It will be ready by the end of May, and after that date regular infantry and cavalry will be stationed there for about three months, and possibly a battery of artillery for part of the time. On Saturday evening the members of the D company of the 2nd Volunteer Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers had supper together at the new Drill Hall, Brynford-atreet. The ofifcers present were Colonel Davies Cooke (commanding the battalion), Captain Lloyd Price, and Lieutenants Trevor Jones and Isaac Taylor. At the conclusion of the repast the prizes, gained at the recent annual prize-firing were dis- tributed to the men, the principal prize-winners being Private Roger Roberts, Color-Sergt. Arthur J-ones, Bandmaster Charles Jones, Corpl. John Roberts, and Bugler Edward Jackson. Tke Army Estimates for the coming year show an increase of nearly S86,000 above the amount asked for last year. Nearly a quarter of this is accounted for by increased expenditure on the Volunteer forces. This arises partly from an increase of the force in a tj d .i, numbers and eSiciency. But it is largely swollen by concessions made by the War Office as regards camp allowances.

I THE DEPOT, R.W.F. On Tuesday a Board of officers assembled at the barracks when Captain Mostyn Owen and Captain Lloyd, 3rd Battalion, were examined for majorities and Lieut. Guise, 3rd Battalion, for a captaincy. The result is not yet known, the General commanding the district having to be communicated with. The Wrexham Barracks has long been the pride of the town, and no pains are spared by the authorities to make it attractive. A large number of chestnut trees have been planted round the square, which will in time prove a great adornment to what even at present, is by no means dreary nor unattractive. An addition is also being made to the Sergeants' Mess, wliah will prove very useful.

I HOLYWELL. BOARD OF GUAKDIANS.—The fortnightly meeting was held on Friday, Mr J. Scott Bankes (chairman) presiding, when the Clerk produced estimates for the call for the various Union purposes for the next half- year. The total amount of the call was Y-8,768, against S8,956 for the corresponding half last year. This, with one exception, was the lowest call made during the last twelve years, the average for that time being £ 10,044. The amount required for the year for sanitary purposes was E380, against JE340. in addition to X62 from the Northop special drainage district and S119 from Bagillt. — The Chairman al'uded to the representation on the Board of the parish of Northop. He said that some time ago the Local Government Board sanctioned the increase of the guardians of the parish from two to three, it being distinctly understood that each parish should be represented. Last year two guardians were elected for the Connah's Quay part of the parish, the result being that the large Welsh-speaking district of Caer- fallwch was entirely unrepresented, which was not right. He considered that there should be a guardian present from that district, who would be able to explain the cases from it, and he hoped the matter would be borne in mind at the forthcoming election. —The Rev. T. Z. Davies said a similar difficulty was felt in the Whitford parish, there being no one there to represent the interests of the district of Gorsedd. —The Clerk reported that since the last Board a number of the parishes had paid in part of their arrears, but there was still due on the December call a sum of £ 589.—Further discussions took place on the great increase in the number of vagrants.—The Clerk reported the balance at the bank to be JE438, and cheques were drawn for £ 362. RURAL, SANITABV AUTHORITY.—At Friday's meeting the clerk reported that he had received a letter from Mr 00 H. Mason, a London solicitor, to the London and North-Western Railway Company, stating that he was instructed to point out that the nuisance caused by the sewage from adjoining property dis- charging into the railway ditch at Connah's Quay had become intolerable, and he must therefore call upon the authority to carry out the agreement come to between them and the company in 1884, whereby the authority agreed to perform certain works of drainage unless the work was at once proceeded with, he would have no alternative but to commence proceedings against the authority to enforce them to carry out their agreement.—The Clerk said the mat- ter invovled was a big one, and he thought it would be best for all parties concerned if an interview took place between the authority and the representatives of the company, to see if an alternative and cheaper scheme could not be planned. If the ditch was opened under the railway the water would be taken off, but if the authority had to construct the drain, it would cost hundreds of pounds and benefit only the company. It was decided that a deputation consist- ing of Aid. Reney, the Mayor of Flint (Ald.Muspratt), and the inspector and clerk should see the officials of the company on the matter to try and come to an amicable arrangement.—The Clerk reported the re- sult of further correspondence between himself and Messrs. Kelly and Keene, Mold, in regard to the Mold Water Company's new Bill. It appeared that the company were willing to insert a clause in the Bill providing that unless they supply the districts of Leeswood and Nerquis with water within four years, their powers to do so should lapse. The opinion of the authority was that three years would be a sufficient time (to be extended if afterwards found proper by the authority), and the clerk was directed to write to the company to this effect.

MARKETS. WBEXHAM. CATTLE, Monday.—There was a good all round supply of fat stock at market, calves and pigs being particularly numerous, and there was an excellent trade. Beef made from 6Ad to 7d per lb., mutton up to 9d, and veal 7Ad. Bacon pigs realised from 9s 6d to 10s per score lbs. There was only a slow demand for milch cows, the best not making more than 116 each, and the trade in store beasts was also quiet. THUBBDAT. S. a. a. a. Red wheat (new), per 751bs.o 5 1 to 5 4 Oats (old), per bushel of 45lbs. 3 0 to 3 10 Malting barley, per 70lbs.o.o 4 4 to 4 10 Grinding barley, per 65lbs 3 9 to 4 3 Potatoes (old), per 120lbs.o.0 3 3 to 3 6 Butter, per lb. of 160z 1 4 to 1 6 Beef, per lb.o. 7 to 9 Mutton, per lb 4 5 to 9 Pork, „ 7 to 9 Veal, „ 7 to 9 Fowls, per couple. 3 6 to 5 0 Ducks. Of 4 0 to 5 0 Eggs, 12 to 14 for a shilling. MOLD. WEDNESDAY.—Wheat (new), 115 6d to 12s; barley (seed), 9s 6d to 10s; oats (old), 6s to 6s 6d; potatoes, 8s 6d to 9s per hamper; butter, Is 6d per lb.; eggs, 8 for a shilling. THE MAnCH FAIR on Wednesday was one of the smallest we have seen for years, but, notwithstanding the bitterly cold weather a more hopeful spirit existed than we have known for a long time. Inquiries were brisk, and prices had an upward tendency. Pigs were exceptionally dear. Mr J. E. Davies had a very full and excellent sale at his mart in Grosvenor-street, more business by far being transacted there than in the open fair. DENBIGH. WEDNESDAY-.—The market was held in inclement weather, and the attendance was below the average. Butter dearer at Is 7d and Is 8d per lb.; small tub. Is 5d; large tub, Is 3d and Is 4d. Eggs, 16 and 17 for a shilling. Fowls as per last week's quotations. CHESTER. CHESHIRE BUTTER AND EGGs.-Quotations: Chester: Butter, Is 5d per lb.; eggs, 12 for a shilling. Stockport: Butter, Is 5d per lb.; eggs, 8 and 9 for Is. Altrincham: Butter, Is 5d per lb.; eggs, 10 and 11 for Is. Macclesfield: Butter, Is 4d per lb.; eggs, 10 and 12 for Is. Crewe: Butter, Is 5d per lb.; eggs, 12 for Is. Sandbach Butter, Is 5d per lb.; eggs, 12 for Is. Congleton: Butter, Is 5d per lb.; eggs, 10 and 11 for Is. Northwich: Butter, Is 4d and Is 5d per lb.; eggs, 10 and 12 for Is. Nantwich Butter, Is 5d per lb. eggs, 12 and 13 for Is. Knutsford: Butter, Is 4d and Is 5d per lb.; eggs, 10 to 12 for Is. Runcorn: Butter, Is 4d and Is 5d per lb.; eggs, 10 and 11 for Is. CREWE. CATTLE, Monday.—Large supply of fat and store stock, good attendance of buyers. PricesBeef, 6d to 6,ld; mutton, 8d to 9d; veal, 7d; porket pigs, 10s per score; bacon pigs, 9s 6d per score. Kew milch and calving cows and heifers, n4 to £19; barrens, t9 to .£12; stirks, t6 to £8; pigs, 15s to 45s. SHREWSBURY. CORN, Saturday.—This market was moderately attended. Wheat was unchanged. Fine barley was dull at last week's quotations, but secondary qualities were 2d per bushel lower. QuotationsWhite wheat, 5s 2d to 5s 4d; red wheat, 5s to 5s 2d per 751bs.; barley, 4s 3d to 4s 9d per 701bs.; oats, 16s 6d to 18s 6d; peas, 15s 6d to 16s 6d per 2251bs.; beans, 16s to 17s per 2401bs. oawESTR-r. WEDNESDAY.—White wheat (new), 5s 2d to 5s 6d; red wheat (new), 4s lOd to 5s 2d; oats (new), 15s to 17s; malt- ing barley, 18s to 20s; potatoes, 3s to 3s 6d per measure; butter, Is 4d to Is 6d; beef, 7d to 9d; mutton, 8d to 9d; butter7, d to 9d; pork, 6d to 8d per lb; fowls, 4s to 5s; ducks, 5s to 6s per couple; eggs, 16 for a shilling. CATTLE, Wednesday.—This fair was well attended, and stock all round was looking fairly well. The quotations were as follows :-Bcef made from 6d to 7Jd per lb., mutton, nd to 8Jd, veal, 7d, and pork. 5d to 5id. The sales were as follows:—Messrs. Whitfield and Son sold 106 cattle and calves and 373 sheep and pigs; Messrs. Dawson and Co. held their usual sale: Mr J. C. McKie sold 70 cattle and calves; and Messrs. Bayley and Groves sold a number of cattle and calves and sheep and pigs. MONTHLY HORSE FAIR.—This is usually about the largest fair of its kind in the year. and on Wednesday there was a capital show of horses of all classes on offer. There were some very good carts showing, and these ranged in price from £40 to LW, and very good ones £60. The prices asked for hacks and C"l,S were from £20 to J25, and in some cases JE30. There was a good attendance of dealers, and a fair business was done. MONTHLY BUTTER AND CHEESE F MR.-This fair was held at the Powis Market Hall, on Wednesday, when there was a good pitch of cheese, there being about 450 cheese and about 180 tubs of butter offering. The quotations were as follows:—Butter made from Is Od to Is Id per lb.; cheese-skims realized from 30s to 35s; half-meated, 37s 6d to 40s; and fat, 55s to 60s. Bacon flitches made from 6d to !ibd per lb., and hams 8d to Bid. ELLESMERE. TUESDAY.—Old wheat, 5s 9d to 5s LID; red, 5s 5d to 5s 7d per 751bs.; barley, 4s 8d to 4s lOd; oats, 3s 6d to 3s 9d; eggs, 11 to 12 for Is; butter. Is 2d to Is 3d per 16oz.; fowls, 3s 6d to 4s per couple; ducks, 5s to 6s per couple. WHITCHURCH. FRIDAY.-Wheat, 4s 8d to 5s per 751bso: barley, 4s 5d to 5s per 701bs.; oats, 3s 3d to 4s 3d per 501bs.; eggs, 12 to 13 for Is; butter, Is 3d to Is 7d per 16oz.; fowls, 4s 6d to 55 per couple; ducks, 5s to 6s per couple: potatoes, 3s to 3s 3d per measure; beef, 6d to 8d per lb.; mutton, 71 to 9d; veal, 8d to 9d; pork, 6d to 7d; rabbits, 2s 4d to 2s 6(1 per couple. BIRKENHEAD. TUESDAY.—Hay, £ 3 to £4 per ton; clover, f4 to £ 5; straw, wheat, IE2 10s to £ 3; straw, oat, £ 115s to iC2; turnips, iEl 6s; manure, 3s to 5s per ton. LIVERPOOL. TUESDAY.—Cheese, per 112Ibso: Finest States and Canadian, 56s to 58s. Eggs, per 120—Irish Hell, 6s lOd to 7s 4d.

PoSITIVK COLLK, WAET AXD EUKION CUITE. A SAFE and certain remedy without pain. The new prepara- tion causes the most obstinate corn to shell off in two nights, and gives a free and healthy action to the skin. Price, with brush, lOd per post, Is.—JAMKS FISIIEU EDISBURY, M.P.S., North Wales Pliarm-cy, 3, High-street, Wrexham. 808