Wrexham and Denbighshire Advertiser and Cheshire Shropshire and North Wales Register

TUESDAY'.—Before E. M. Jones, Esq., and W. Prichard. Esq. ALLEGED THEFT OF A CLOCK. Ellen Owens was in custody charged with stealing a clock valued 9d, the property of Patrick rseary.— She was remanded until Monday.

WEDXEi'I>AY.-Beforc S. T. Baugh, Esq., and J. Oswell Bury, Esq. A SAD CASE. Annie Griffiths, of Moss, a young woman whose mind seemed affected, was in custody charged with having been found wandering about with a number of young men on the previous night and early in the monllng.-The prisoner was committed to prison for fourteen days with hard labor, the magistrates hoping that she would be mentally examined.

COUNTY MAGISTRATES' COURT. MONDAY, MASCH 21ST. Before Dr. E. Davies, in the chair, W. Overton, Esq., and C. W. Townshend, Esq. A RATE CASE. Messrs Clark and Rea, Limited, were summoned by the Overseers of Gwersyllt for non-payment of poor-rate. Mr Hampden Poyser said he was only instructed on Saturday afternoon, the summons only being served on Friday. He found the case was bristling with law, and would have to instruct Mr Honoratus Lloyd to appear for his client. He therefore asked for an adjournment. Mr James Price, the assistant overseer, opposed the application which, however, the magistrates con- sidered a reasonable one and granted. TIn: SOLICITOR AND THE BENCH. Edward Bellis, blacksmith, of Fentrebais, Minera, suinmoned David Edwards, rockman, of the same place, for having assaulted him on March 12th, in the Melbourne Arms, Pentrebais. David Edwards also summoned Edward Bellis and Robert Thomas, the landlord, for assaulting him on the same occasion. Mr Ashton Bradley appeared for Bellis and Mr Wynn I Evans for Edwards.—The evidence of Bellis showed that on the evening of the day named he was in the Melbourne Arms and found Edwards there. Edwards invited him to have a drink, but Bellis, explaining that he had a boil on his neck, declined. Edwards then called him a foul name. Mr Bradley What did he call you Bellis Ho called me a d- Tory, and other hard names. (Laughter.) Continuing, complainant said Edwards struck his hat ofr. and ended by knocking him down with his fists. The story told by Edwards was that Bellis came in and said" We have given you a licking," and then flourished his fist-i close to defendant, who pushed him away. In doing so, he fell down. Bellis also kicked him, and the landlord who came in turned him out with considerable roughness. Mrs Thomas, wife of the defendant Thomas, gave evidenes in corroboration of Bellis's account, but Ed. Jones, Thomas Davies, and John Kelly, who gave evidence for David Edwards, said that he and Bellis were as bad as one another. Mr Wynn Evans in hi* address to the magistrates, suggested that all cases might be dismissed. The Chairman said the case of assault against Edwards had been proved, and he would be fined 2s 6d and costa (£1 85 6d altogether.) The other cases would be dismissed. Mr Wynn Evans (aside): I did not expect a Tory bench would decide otherwise; it is a good Tory decision. Mr C. W. Townshend: VOtat did you say? Mr Wynn Evans It was not intended for you. Mr T. Buchannan Taylor (the representative of the owner of the public house): He said -4 It was a Tory decision." Mr Townshend: It is an insult to the Bench. Mr Wynn Evans: It was not intended to teach the Bench. I Mr Townshend: I should like you to withdraw it. Dr. Davies: lam quite sure of this, that if the opinion of those in court was taken on this case they would entirely coincide in the view taken by the magistrates. Mr Wynn Evans I cannot agree with the decision, and cannot accept it with the respect I should wish. DRUNKENNESS, &C. Thomas Griffiths, Cerney, was summoned by P.C. Phcenix for having been drunk and disorderly at* Cerney on February 20th. Fined lis 6d including coats.—Thomas Davies, Marford, was summoned by P.C. Roberts for having been drunk whilst in charge of a horse and vehicle at Rossett Station on March 5th. Fined 10s and costs.—William Hughes, Marford, was in custody charged on a warrant with having been drunk on August 13th. Fined 5s and costs. CRUELTY TO A DOG. William Hughes, of Rossett Green, was summoned by Inspector Hampshire, of the R.S.P.C.A.. for cruelty to a dog.—James Williams said on February 28th he saw Hughes with a big dog, which presently got fighting with another large dog. He was trying to separate them, when a small terrier began to snap and oark at the first two. Defendant kicked the terrier away, but it was so badly injured that it had to be drowned.—The magistrates were of opinion that there was no intentional cruelty on the part cf Hughes, and ordered him to pay the costs. SHOCKING AL.LEGATIONS. John Griffiths, an old man, was summoned by a sharp-looking girl of fourteen, his niece, named Elizabeth Ann Eddowes, of 27, Cleveland-street, Birkenhead. for having assaulted her on November 1st.—Mr Ashton Bradley defended.—The complainant said she had lived with her aunt (the defendant's wife) at Ridley Wood for two years, who fed and clothed her. but gave her no money. The defendant was suffering from influenza, and had a bed in the parlor. On the day nnmed she and her uncle were alone. She was making up the fire, when lie seized her. threw her on the bed, and indecently assaulted her.—Cross- examined The summons was not taken out until some time after. It was true that her uncle and aunt had had a quarrel, but this had nothing to do with taking out the summons.—There was no corroborative evidence, and Mr Bradley commented upon this fact, and upon the deltiv in taking out the summons.—The magistrates called Martha Jane White, of Birken- head, the girl's sister, but she could give no further information, and the case was dismissed.

0 ST. ASAPH HIGHWAY BOARD. A meeting of the board was held at the Workhouse, St. Asaph r on Saturday, Sir William Grenvillc William* Bart., presiding over an unusually large ttttendauce of members—The Surveyor (Mr D. Lloyd) made an application on behalf of the roadmen for an increase of wages. At present they were receiving 15s a week. He also conplained that he could not get men to work at such low wages, because they could get better elsewhere. Several members, including the vice-chairman of the board of guardiana, spoke rather strongly against the application, on the ground that farmers would also have to increase their laborers' wages.—An amendment by Mr Jones that the increase of Is be granted was lost, whereupon that gentleman remarked that he would make some of the members "sit up" when the annual vestry meeting came. (Laughter.)—The Clerk (Mr Grimsley) reported that the overseers of Rhuddlan and St Asaph were in arrears with their rates to the amount of S92. being JE50 and £ 42 respectively.—On the motion of Mr RoberN. seconded by Mr E. Morgan it was decided to give heUl 14 days' notice in which to pay the same, or else proceedings would be taken.—The Chairman said the balance in the treasurer's hands wa-ts zEI80 126 Id, but the bills now signed were to be paid out of tha.t amount. The expenditure on the roads up to the end of last February was iE916 7s 5d. The surveyor's estate for the whole year was £ 932 15s, and they had exceeded that amount by 1141. The surveyor explained that the reason of the extra money being spent was owing to the extremely wet weather. through which more material than usual had to be laid down on the road. The prices of materials had also gone up from Is 2d to Is 6d and Is 9d.

THROAT IEIEITATION AND COUGH.—Soreness and dry- ness, tickling and irritation. inducing cough and affecting the voice. For these symptoms use Epps's Glycerine Jujubes. In contact with the glands at the moment they are excited by the act of sucking, the Glycerine in these agreeable confections becomes actively healing. Sold only in boxes 7jd, tins Is lid, iabelled JAJIKS EppsLIL- Co., Homoeopathic Chemists, London." Dr. Moore, in his work on "ij,osc and Throat Diseases," sav.-i:Tlie Glycerine Jujubes prepared by James Ep'ps and Co. are of undoubted service as a curative or palliative agent; while Dr. Gordon Holmes, Senior Physician to the Muni- cipal Throat and Ear Infirintry, writes: After an extended trial, I have found your Glycerine Jujubes of considerable benefit in ?most all forms of throat 195C

ENTERTAINING THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES. DINNER AT WREXHAM REFORM CLUB. The three Liberal County Councillors for Wrex- ham—Messrs. J. Pric^iard, J. E. Powell, and T. Ing- ham—were entertained at dinner at the Reform Club on Friday night. The arrangements were very efficiently carried out by the steward and his wife (Mr and Mrs Duffy.) Mr W. C. Bayley presided, and was supported by the guests and Mr Simon Jones, C.C. The vice-cliair was occupied by Mr Thomas Jones, T.C., who was supported by Messrs. J. Hopley Pierce and W. R. Evans. Amongst others present were Messrs. B. Owen, T.C., A. Nuttall, T.C., E. Richards, A. Ll. Hughes, W. Wynn Evans, C. Tudor Hughes, G. Heyward, F. Allniand, W. J. Willett, Burgess, F. McRae, Noah Price, A. Fletcher, E. Hughes, W. Davies, G. H. Humphreys, J. T. Morgan, J. Evison. T. Davies, T. Powell, Queensbridge, etc. The Queen having been given from the chair, Mr W.R. EVANS proposed "the successful candidates." (cheers.) They had undoubtedly gained a very great and marked victory in the late County Council election. (Hear, hear.) Two of them had fought several times, and so far as lie knew had never once been beaten. (Hear, hear.) Mr Powell had always carried the West Ward, and Mr Prichard had always been a successful candidate in the South Ward. (Hear, hear.) As for the other candidate, he had a still greater honor, because he had never been compelled to fight. The name of Mr Ingham was enough to frighten away ail opposition, and every time lie had been allowed to go in unopposed. (Hear, hear.) He hoped the three gentlemen would have long life and energy to serve that borough and county and the country generally for many years to come. (Hear, hear.) He was sure the County Council could ill- spare any one of them. (Hear, hear.) They had represented their constituents faithfully and they could not help thinking, considering the maimer in which Mr Prichard and Mr Powell had worked for the county, and the unselfish way in which they had done their work during the past three years, that it was an act of very ill-grace on the part of certain parties in the town to oppose their return in the way they did. (Hear, hear.) And they congratulated themselves as a party that this opposition was ineffectual, and al- though a fight was fought such as had never, he believed, been fought before in Wrexham—he believed the Tory party and 14 the trade used all the machinery at their disposal to try and oust these two gentlemen—they were glad to say that both the Mayor and Mr Murless had to go back, as they were told in that room after the election, sadder and wiser men. (Applause.) A great deal of arrant nonsense had been talked about the introduction of politics into the election. They knew very well that it suited certain gentleman to pose as independents, and they knew that these very same gentlemen would at the same time use all their influence and power to serve their own party. (Hear. hear.) They knew that, until they fought politically in the municipal elections, they had no chance for twenty years of getting a Liberal Mayor. They knew every office was tilled up by the nominees of the party in power, and' however much they might say against contesting municipal and County Council elections politically, the Liberal party knew that unless they did so they as a party had no chance whatever of getting fair play. (Hear, hear.) He believed it was not possible to carrv on such a fight without it becoming political. It had become so in Loudon and in other parts of the country, and they knew with what result. (Hear, hear.) And he believed the party in Denbigh would not have suffered defeat, if they had fought the battle, as they should have done, on political grounds. (Hear, hear.) It was said that the work of the county had nothing political about it, and that municipal and county work was merely administrative, and that there was no reason why imperial politics should come in. But they wanted some means of finding out who were their friends, and he thought that the men who were liberal in large matters were likely to be liberal in small matters as well. (Hear, hear.) If they could point out to him a man who would vote right on Home Rule and on Welsh Disestablishment he would point out a man who would vote right on all matters which came before the Council. He thought how- ever much nonsense they might talk about fighting politically, that the only means by which they could get the best men to represent them was to mark out those men who had fought for them in imperial politics, and had shown clearly and unmistakably upon which side they stood. (Hear, hear.) He had very great pleasure in proposing the health and success of the three successful candidates during the last County Council contest in Wrexham. (Applause.) The toast having been duly honored, Mr J. PRICHAUD thanked them very heartily for the very kind way in which they had received the names of his colleagues and himself. He felt himself, as he was sure Mr Powell and Mr Ingham felt, very thankful to them for having thought of them after the memorable contest they had fought and won. (Hear, hear.) It was a happy sight to see so many friends around that tab.e. It seemed to him a presage of victory in the future. (Applause.) They had a very stiff fight in the West and South Wards, and he owed a very deep debt of gratitude to his friends who canvassed and worked so well. He was sure that no candidate ever had better backers and workers than he had on that day. (Hear, hear.) Their friends, the enemy, made a great deal of noise and a big show, but they, on the other hand, went about their work in a quiet business-like way, and they knew the result. (Applause.) He thought that their friends, the enemy, were behaving none too well to their candidates. It seemed a melancholy process to run down their candi- dates after putting them up. (Hear, hear, and laughter.) At the first County Council election, he met Mr John Lewis, who was picked as the strongest possible man, and when he was beaten, the Tories had the bad manners to run him down and say that he was not a strong candidate. With regard to the Mayor, the party picked him as the strongest champion, and when a little David perhaps knocked him down they began to say that he was not a strong candidate. (Laughter.) He thought that came with very bad taste. (Hear, hear.) He thought that dinner was a, very happy thought On the part of some- one, perhaps the chairman. (Hear, hear.) It served, he thought, to unite the party. He rejoiced that they had got a very fine building to meet in. It was rather different to Hank-street, and he hoped that the great object they had in view, the advancement of the Liberal cause in the borough and neighbourhood, would be materially assisted by that building, and the organisation connected with it. (Hear, hear.) He hoped that they would in the future be very careful as to the organisation of the party, and that they would be ready to fight at a moment's notice. The general election would soon take place, and he should like to see the party thoroughly organised as soon as possible. (Hear, hear.) It was not necessary that he should enter into the duties of the County- Council. They knew that its future duties would certainly not be less, but were likely to increase very rapidly. Technical education was an extremely importall t 8tlect. which he hoped would be taken in in hand. (Hear, hear.) He felt a personal interest in allotments, and he was very glad to see that the Government had touched upon the question of small holdings. He thought these, and other questions were of the greatest importance to the well-being of the people of the country. (Hear, hear.) His per- sonal thanks were due to Mr B. Owen, their old chair- man. and he could not in justice sit down without re- ferring to the noble service rendered to himself by his friend, Mr Noah Price. (Hear, hear.) He again thanked them for the veiy kind way in which they had received his name. (Applause.) Mr J. E. POWELL said he had always maintained Wrexham was Liberal, and lie maintained it still. Mr Prichard and himself undoubtedly were faced by a compact hodv of Tories and The Trade." They did all they could; tried their very best with the two strongest men they could find, and they were fairly beaten. (Hear, hear.) He agreed with what Mr Prichard had said with reference to organisation. He felt about the North Ward that it was a ques- tion as to whether their organisation was not getting rusty, because it was doing no work. Then I in the East Ward, no work was being done—(A Voice: A candidate ready")—because they felt doubtful whether the fight would result in their being success- ful. In view of the near approach of the general election, their duty was clearly to be as ready in the East and North Wards, as in the West and South, (Hear, hear.) If they were ready, and in the same position in the East and North, as in the other two Wards, he had very little fear as to what the result would be at the general election. (Hear, he-) The County Council had worked as a party during the last three years, and owing to the way in which they had thrown themselves into the work, he thought the results were very satisfactory. (Hear, hear.) Let them compare the Council with that of Flintshire, or Cliesliire-lic did not wish to say anything deroga- tory to Flintshire. He was glad to see-that the Manches- ter Guardian, the other day, pointed to the County of I Denbigh as a model connty. and he learnt that in manv instances other counties intended acting as they had done, in taking over the main roads into their own hands, instead of farming them as they had done in the past. The result would be that they would get better roads at a lower cost. The Denbigh- shire County Council made the roads itself. and every penny spent went upon the roads, and that was the way in which a saving had been effected. With regard to education, suppose they had allowed that election to pass, and these so-called independents to be elected, into whose hands would education have passed for perhaps the next twenty years ? Into the hands of the Tory party. (Hear, hear.) One of the so-called independent candidates—at any rate, he was given to understand that he stood as an independent-got up at the last meeting of the Council. and the first speech he made was a party speech, and that was how they all acted. (Hear, hear.) With regard to the question of allotments, he hoped it would be taken in hand in that county. Tliev had a strong com- mittee. and he hoped they would deal with the ques- tion during the next three years so that the working people in that division, and in the Western division, might be able to get small pieces of land to cultivate for themselves. (Hear, hear.) This would un- doubtedly prove of immense advantage to the laborers in the country. Anyone who had read the Contemporary Heciew for the last two months, and noting the condition of the small farmer in France, and contrasting it with the condition of the similar class in Great Britain, would have been struck with the difference. They were not to be compared. And this was simply because they were in France placed in such a position as to be able to get small holdings. He hoped their Allotment Committee would be able to bring this about in Denbighshire. (Hear, hear.) He could not conclude without saying a word about the trade." They were the gentlemen Who fought and faced them, and they carried on the fight with the Tory organisation, but for themselves. The two men who fought the wards—the Mayor and Mr Murless—were trade champions. He had nothing to say against them personally, but as representatives of "the trade," then he said "the trade" must remember that they were the servants and not the masters of the public. (Hear, hear.) The Council had recently appointed its members of the Standing Joint Police Committee, and what he desired to see was that the Standing Joint Police Committee should in the future, as far its lay in its power, see that the present licensing laws were enforced in the county of Denbigh as the game laws had been enforced in the past. (Hear, hear.) They might congratulate them- selves upon their position, and their prospects as far as the general election went were very satisfactory. He had very little doubt that when they had their candidate ready, with the spirit that was now infused into the party, and perhaps the lesson their friends had had at Denbigh—they had always been told that Denbigh was all right, but the recent election had proved that this was not so-they would be able, with a good pull, a long pull, and a pull altogether, to land their candidate in and Mr Keiiyon out. (Ap- plause.) Mr T. INGHAM thanked them very heartily for inviting him to that dinner. It did him good to look aroun d and see so many good Liberals, and he hoped that dinner would be a precedent which would be well followed. (Hear, hear.) He could hardly consider himself a successful candidate. He had been allowed to have a walk-over, and it was rather nicer than a fight, but he was quite ready, and he had no doubt he would have given a good account of himself. (Hear, hear.) He was very happy to be a member of the Council, and he trusted that lie would be a faithful member. (Hear, hear.) His colleagues, Mr Powell and Mr Prichard, had really said all there was to say, and he could only again thank them for their kindness. Mr J. HOPLEY PIERCE proposed The Officers of the South and West Ward Committees." He agreed with Mr Ingham in hoping that that would not be the last time they would meet together in that way. He had long thought that it they could meet together, as they had done that evening, it would do them good both socially and politically. (Hear, hear.) They would get to know one another better, and would thus tight better when the time came. (Hear, hear.) The officers of the South and West Wards were men who had been tried by the party and had never been found wanting. (Hear, hear.) In the West Ward the chairman was Mr Simon Jones, cf whom nothing need be said. As they all knew, lie was always to the front, was always ready to fill any post, and no trouble was too great for him. (Hear, hear.) The vice-chairman, Mr Duncan Matheson, was also well-known. Although lie (Ir Pierce) was not a successful candidate, his thanks were due to the officers of the West Ward for the gallant fight they made on his behalf. Going to the South Ward, they had their friend Mr Benjamin Owen as chair- man, and they all knew what an indefatigable worker he was. (Hear, hear.) He took special pleasure and pride when he thought of the secretary of the South Ward, Mr Noah Price. (Hear, hear.) Mr Price was one of the whips of the Parliamentary Debating Society ,and they claimed that the work he was taught there had made him the good secretaiy he was. He (Mr Pierce) was one of a few who had thought for some time that they should try and make a change in the government of the town, and that was the chief reason why lie contested the West Ward. But if they meant to win they must be prepared. (Hear, hear.) They must be prepared with candidates, and he hoped that the lessons they had had would be taken to heart, and that before the summer was over they would have four candidates ready to put into the field, as soon as the time came. (Hear, hear.) He thought it was now clear that they would have a better chance of winning if all the Wards were fought. (Hear, hear.) He coupled with the toast the names of Mr Simon Jones, Mr Matheson, Mr B. Owen, and Mr Noah Price. (Applause.) Mr SIMON JONES, in response, said he had a parti- cular interest in the West Ward, for it had been his hunting ground for he should think from twelve to fifteen years, and as chairman of the ward he must acknowledge his indebtedness to the late chairman, Mr Powell, for the condition in which he left the organisation of the ward. (Hear, hear.) Mr Powell had made it his special object to perfect the organi- sation of the West Ward, and to cultivate a good Liberal feeling there, and he (Mr Jones) was very pleased that Mr Powell had been .rewarded for many years' labor by being triumphantly returned to the County Council. (Hear, hear.) They had learnt something by their experiences in the West Ward, and they now found that there was a healthy breeze blowing in the right direction, filling their sails and floating them to victory. They had had reverses, and had learnt to take them without any breakings of heart; they had been ready for every fight, and had been able to relish their victory with a gusto. (Hear, hear.) The contest in the West Ward was keenly fought, but it was fought in good temper. (Hear, hear.) He was very sorry to say, however, that there had been one breach, and a rather sad breach of this good feeling. A lady thought fit to go to a shop and withhold her custom from a certain tradesman. He was sure she would be sorry for what she had done. He thought, when she reflected over the story of her prototype, Ariadne," she would find that both the ancient, as well as the modern, had been subjects of many disappointments. Probably that single breach, with a little reflection, would be put all right. (Hear, hear.) After the great fight of 11380 a number of ladies withdrew their custom from his shop, but it was only for a few months. They came back again, and the good feeling was restored, and he would recommend a similar course to Ariadne." (Hear, hear.) In the West Ward they had a Scotsman as vice-chairman, and he was a champion worker, and in Mr Queens- bridge they had a very steady worker. (Hear, hear.) He thought they, as far as the West Ward was con- cerned, were ready for all contingents, but they must keep their machinery in order and not be too con- fident. (Hear, hear.) Mr MATHESON said he was glad to be present. Organisation had been mentioned by everybody, and he might say, as an old hand, that he was not satisfied with the organisation of the party as it existed. He thought they could make it better, and he was pre- pared with a scheme for adoption in the West Ward, which he hoped the other three wards would also consider. Enthusiasm was all very well, but he wanted a little more than that. He wanted everybody to be prepared well beforehand. He wanted every canvasser to know his work and his district a month or so before the election. (Hear, hear.) He thanked them for coupling his name with the toast. If the rank and file of the party worked heartily when the time came. that was the beat thanks he could receive. (Hear, hear.) Mr B. OWEN said that Mr Powell had hinted that perhaps the North Ward was getting a bit rusty. Well, he fought it ten years ago and won it. Then, after an interval of nine years, he fought it again, and won again. (Hear, hear.) He hoped the machinery in the North Ward was as bright at present as that in the South. (Hear, hear.) After referring to the fight in the South Ward. Mr Owen said he believed they had a large majority in Wrexham. They must not look to Denbigh ard Ruthin. Let them do their part well, and then they would be victorious. (Applause.) Mr NOAH PRICE said the fight was a big one in the South Ward. The Tories and the trade felt con- fident of success in the South Ward, and he believed that up to five or six o'clock they really had a majority; but from that time, when the working men of Pcnybryn, Meifod-place, and Wellington-road came to poll, they polled three votes to one. (Applause.) With regard to organisation, the organi- sation of the South Ward was not perfect. There were many ways of improving it. In the first place, the South Ward was without a secretary. He was not secretary of the ward. He was vice-chairman, but knowing the position Mr Prichard was placed in. and knowing that Mr Soames was likely to come out, he felt it his duty to undertake the duties of secretary for the time being. (Hear, hear.) He trusted no time would be lost in securing a secretary for the South Ward. It was a large ward, larger than the North and West together, and he would suggest that Mr Selwyn Prichard be asked to undertake the duties. (Hear, hear.) Mr F. ALLMAND proposed the last toast, The Wrexham Liberal Association." Like every other body, it had had its ups and downs. It reached, he thought, its high water mark six years ago, in that memorable election when they swept the board. (Hear, hear.) Then the Association gradually went back and back until about a fortnight ago, when the tide seemed to have taken a turn. (Hear, hear.) The Association was well officered. (Hear, hear.) Mr Bayley, the chairman, had yet to win his spurs in a big fight, but he had done well in small fights, and he thought they might look forward with confidence to his work at the next general election. (Hear, hear.) Mr Rice Jones was a very painstaking secretary. He had done a lot of hard work in a very quiet and unostentatious manner. (Hear, hear.) The treasurers, Mr Simon Jones and Mr Ll. Hughes, were well- known. (Hear, hear.) It would thus be seen that they were well officered, and all they wanted was a candidate. (Hear, hear.) The CHAIRMAN thanked Mr Allmand for his kind words. They had the right cause at heart; they believed in its justice, and the town believed also. (Hear, hear.) Mr Rice Jones, he was sorry to say, was not well; but he would convey to him the com- plimentary references, which he thought were thoroughly deserved. (Hear, hear.) He thought their thanks were due to their new steward. He had started well, and there was every prospect of his going on well. Mr LL. HUGHES also replied.

9 WELSH DISESTABLISHMENT. I HOWDY MEETING IN MANCHESTER. I On Monday evening a largely attended public meet- ing was held in Manchester as a set-off to a similar meeting recently held, at which a strong attack was made on the Church of Wales. There was consider- able opposition, and the proceedings were lively. Mr P. P. Pennant, of St. Asaph, presided. Mr W. Tudor Howell, a son of Archdeacon Howell, moved a re- solution condemning statements contained in a resolution passed at the opposition meeting describing the Welsh Church as the Church of England in Wales, and its property as national property. Mr. W. E. Helm seconded the resolution; but as it was being put to the vote the excitement grew to fever- heat, and the audience at the back of the hall became a jumbled mass consequent on vigorous attempts to eject the noisiest of the opposition. One individual was very roughly used as he was bundled out, and a lady was carried away unconscious. Several persons pushed their way to the platform with the evident in- tention of moving an amendment, but after much gesticulation and excited talk they were induced to desist. Mr H. Byron Reed, M.P., on rising to move a resolution condemning the policy of the Libera- tionists, said he was convinced that the meeting was systematically interrupted by an organised band of rowdies, who exercised brute force. Replying to an ejaculation that the Welsh Radical party repudiated the leadership and co-operation of the Liberationist Society. Mr Byron Reed said the two bodies had held meetings conjointly, and subscribed funds for a joint purpose. The Rev. D. Richards seconded, and the resolution was carried.

At an examination of Parsee giria in domestic cookery which has taken place in Bombay the competitors for prizes numbered over one hundred. To every ten of them a mistress was appointed to superintend. The prizes were awarded by a committee oCParsoo ladies. The preparation of food for infants and invalids was included in the examination, but the principal dishes were those in every day demand in middle-class life. such has kabobs, potato wafers, yellow rice, curries, omelets, pudding, and vegetables. About 600 ladies assembled to watch the operations. After the prizes had been awarded, the girl competitors sat down at a table in the hall and did ample juatiee to the dishes they had prepared. The candidates all attend the throe selloo r ro e f athree d. The candidates all attend the throe schools of tho Parsee Girls' School Association and belong to middle-class patertti,

PRIZE DAY AT THE BRITISH SCHOOLS. A SPLENDID RECORD. The annual entertainment and distribution of medals and certificates in connection with the Wrex- ham British Schools took place in the Public Hall on Monday evening, when the large building was densely packed by an audience which highly appreciated the pleasant entertainment which was provided for their delectation. Mr John Francis, Nythfa, presided, and he was accompanied on the platform by Mr Simon Jones, Chairman of the Committee of Management; and Mr J. Hopley Pierce. The children were ranged on seats in ranks, and as the girls were in white, the appearance was in every way pretty. Over all was the motto A British School W elcome," and in front of the platform were the words The pen is mightier than the sword." The first items in the programme were as usual given by the infants, who, thanks to the training of their mistress, Miss Kennan, and her assistants, proved as charming as ever. They first sang about "The travelling monkey," ai-id with great gusto described his woes and pleasures. Next came a prologue, in which two little fellows and two little maidens took turns, the burden being recited by the remainder of the young people with great clearness. A company of the little ones then went through a scarf drill to musical accompaniment. The last thing they did was to recite The Kitten," an amusing poem written from the kitten's point of view, and criticising a baby very vigorously and with much wholesome indignation* It was given by the whole of the infants, two little ones being seated on low chairs, one bearing a pussy-cat, who seemed quite astonished at the part she had to take and the other, a large doll, which the audience at once understood was the much criticised baby. The recitation was very funny, and was greatly enjoyed. Then came the anthem, "0 magnify the Lord." which was sung by the choir under the baton of Mr Charles Doud, the excellent headmaster. This was as fine a specimen of school singing that we have heard of late, and was heartily applauded. The CHAIRMAN (who had a severe cold), in opening his address, said he had to begin by giving the audience a piece of bad news, and perhaps the best way to give it was to read the letter which had been placed in his hands. Mr Francis then read a letter from Mr A. C. Humplireys-Owen, chairman of the Montgomeryshire County Council, who was to have presented the certificates, in which he (through Mrs ETumplireys-Owen) regretted that, in consequence of an attack of erysipelas in the face, he was prevented attending the meeting. The Chairman, continuing, said he had, however, a bit of good news for the audience, and that was he was not going to keep them long—(laughter)—but no thanks to him, for the fact was, as they no doubt perceived, his voice was not in condition, and he feared that if he drove it too hard it would bolt. (Laughter.) He was extremely- glad to have the privilege to take the chair on that occasion when there was so splendid a report of the operation of the British Schools. He had to announce to them with great satisfaction that the excellent merit grant had been earned by the school in all three departments-the Boys', the Girls', and the Infants'. (Cheers.) They had, therefore, three feathers worthy to be worn in the Prince of Wales' Arms, and which would form a very appropriate ornament for the British School in the Principality. (Hear, hear.) He found also that in drawing the Science and Art Department in London had conferred the excel- lent merit grant. (Hear, hear.) He was informed also that in the examination of the North Wales Scholarships Association the school had done very well indeed. He was still further told that in the girls' department, in the section of domestic economy, there had been con- siderable progress. Four girls went in the examina- tion in Stage II., and all passed; and in Stage I. fifteen were entered, and they all passed. (Hear, hear.) He thought this was a very encouraging fact for the unmarried youths of Wrexham. (Laughter.) They would see there was a chance of getting girls as wives who knew something how to keep a house in order, and make the best of what they earned. He would advise them to have their eye upon the British Schools in future. (Laughter and applause.) This was a very good record for the schools. They were no doubt aware tL t certain trees showed their growth by rings, some of which were thin and some fat, and he was told the reason for this was due to the influence of the seasons. When the British School came to terminate its existence-and might that be many years hence—he thought when they came to examine its growth they would find that the year 1891 showed a very splendid growth and a very fat ring. (Hear, hear.) Although that was a scholars' night. and he did not intend to detain them long, there were one or two words which lie should like to address to the parents who were present. It was not very often they were got together, and now they had them it would not do to miss the opportunity. They knew perfectly well that in these days education was in the air. Higher education, intermediate education, and elementary education was in the air in connection with the County Council and Parliament, and he feared that when a subject was so prominent in the minds of the people it involved a considerable amount of danger. The danger in this case was that parents were very apt to consider that the school would do everything for the children, and to the extent they considered this, there lay the danger. He wanted them to remember that the school-master could never adequately take upon himself the responsibility that belonged to parents. That was a fact he hoped they would never lose sight of. The basis of the state was the home, the school came next, and as the home is do will the state be; not as the school-master makes the boys and girls, but as the fathers and mothers made them. There was a great French writer who put the truth so well, that he could not do better than quote his words. He said, It is as important to give a child a prejudice in favor of right, as to present him with its rule." (Hear, hear.) The prejudice in favor of right was to be given in the home by the father and by the mother, and the school-master could not do that except in a very small degree indeed. (Hear, hear.) The school-master often has not the time, and lacked the opportunity, of determining between the temperaments and tendencies of the children. That must be done at home, where also the moral training must be largely given. (Hear. hear.) They saw, therefore, what good parents could do. If they had had but little education themselves, they could magnify education by honoring the schools and respecting the teachers, and that went a great way towards improv- ing the work done by the school-master. He asked all parents, and elder brothers and sisters, as far as in ihl'ep,i"rla)-, to encourage the children. He should like to see their active attendance officer, who was pre- sent, take the boys and girls, and by showing what pleasure was to be derived from learning, encourage those who failed to attend regularly. He should like the parents and all at home to do the same. Much could be done by sending children regularly and punctually to school, and he was pleased to find that one of the infants had been in school every time it was open. (Applause.) He hoped that the example of that little one would encourage the elder scholars, and that the school by their assistance would win additional honors in the future. (Cheers.) The programme was then continued and a party of girls (under Miss Griffiths, the successful head- mistress) sang a song. entitled" Chinese lanterns," which was accompanied by some pretty movements with the lanterns named. Miss Roberts, one of the teachers, the possessor of a very pleasant voice and style, sang" Sunshine and rain," and as all encore gave The better land, Miss Barber accompanied. The choir having ven their Musical Drill with much precision, Master E. L. Francis recited What a boy can do," in excellent style. It was very amusing and the audience much enjoyed it. The choir sang The United Kingdom," in which were given Rule Britannia," March of the men of Harlech," The meeting of the waters," and The blue bells of Scot- land." With each verse a boy and girl dressed in costume and bearing a national flag came in and were cordially received. Mr SUIOX JOXES, chairman of the committee of managers, was then called upon to read the annual report, but before doing so, referred to the absence of the Rev. E. Jerman, the secretary of the school, a post he had occupied with great credit to himself and advantage to the school for a number of years. They were glad to learn that in his absence in a sunny clime, his health had been greatly benefitted. (Applause.) Mr Jones then read the "report for the past year, which was as follows :— BOYS' DEPARTMENT. I The number on books October 31st, 1891, was 350, being an increase of sixteen on that of 1890. The average attendance for the year was 301, being an increase of six. The following boys have attended 430 times and over out of a possible 440 :-Percy Rogers, Chapel-street, 440; George Keating, 440; Samuel Williams, 440 Wallace S. Hughes, Erddig-road, 440; Edward Ellis, 440; John S. Thomas, 440; Edward Pierce,440; Benjamin P. Copleston, Hill-street, 439 Harry Edwards, Johu-street, 439 Harry Jackson, Madeira Hill, 439; John Keating, Trafalgar-road, 438; Frank Copleston, Hill-street, 438; Arthur Jones, Abbot-street, 438; Hugh G. Jones, Vicarage Hill, 437; David W. Hughes, Colliery House, 437; William Cafferky, Abbot-street, 437; Fred. Stant, Fairfield-street. 437: Thomas \V. Jones, Pentrefelin, 437; Robert O. Evans, Vicarage Hill, 437 Montague Moore. Hersham-road, 436 Joseph R. Evans. Ruabon-road, 436: Robert Thomas, Brook-street, 436 Joseph Ulacktin, Barracks, 434 Alfred Thomas, Brook-street, 434; Edward Junes. lanibpit- street, 434 Arthur Thomas. Mount-street, 434 George Lindsay. Bridewell, 433: John Oswald Jones. Lambpit- street, 433; Frederick Jones, Khosnessney, 433 Fred. W. Davies, Iiorne-street, 433; Edward W illiams. Brook- street, 433 William H. Jones, Abbot-street, 432 Thomas Clutton, Ruabon-road, 431: Ernest Thomas, Meifod-place, 430; and John U. Jones, Cemetery, 430. As a result of the Government examination. held in November and December last, Her Majesty's Inspector awarded the school the highest grant. Etrcr-ru.—In Euclid, Stage II., sixteen were examined and fifteen passed. The first three gained full marks, and the first six w ere specially mentioned by Her Inspector. Stanley Horton, John O. Jones. David Davies, J. R Owen, Percy Rogers, Hugh G. Jones, William Barron, William Roycroft, George Parry, Ewart Cross, William Griffiths, Thomas Lewis, Samuel Blacktin, George Keating, and Harry Williams. In Euclid, Stage I., 34 were examined, nnd 32 passed. The first two gained full marks, and the first twelve were specially mentioned :-Henry Richardson, Hy. Edwards, William E. Williams, Andrew O. Jones, John Ll. Evans, Richard T. Groom, William lioliver, Frank Coleman, Arthur Vernon, Alfred Davies, Robert Jones, David W. Hughes, Edward Williams, Charles Samuels, Charles Maylott, Frederick Phillips, Benjamin P. Copleston. Harold Earnshaw, Frank Lee, Robert Peate, William ltoberts, George Bessell. Wm. Idwal Koberts, William U. Mucklestone, Samuel Williams, Thomas P. Jones, Colenso Fletcher, Harry Woodville, Charles Price, William Jones, Ernest Heywood, and Henry Samuels. The specially mentioned boys obtained 83 per cent. of marks. In Algebra, Stage III., fourteen were examined, and twelve passed. The first boy gained full marks, aud the first four were specially mentioned:—Hugh G. Jones, 6 e(L Keating, Percy Rogers, John O. Jones, Stanley Hoiton, Ewart Cross, David Davies, Samuel Blacktin, Harry Williams, George Parry, Wm. E. Williams, and William Griffiths. In Stage II. 35 boys were examined, and 32 passed. The first five gained full marks, and the first seven were specially mentioned:—Henry Richardson, Alfred Davies, Arthur Vernon, Frank Coleman, John LI. Evans, Robert Peate, Samuel Williams, John Large, Charles Maylott, William Boliver, Cliarlea Samuel, Ernest Heywood. Hy. Samuel, William Jeffery.Colenzo Fletchw, Charles Price, William Roberts, Ttiouias Lewis, Benjamin P. Cople- ston, Harold Eamsbaw, Robert Jones. Wm. H. Muckle- stone, William Royeroft, John W. Edwards. Thomas P. Jones, Harry Wooihcille, David W. Hughes, John Minshall, Hugh Davies, Frank Lee, George Bessell, and William Barron. In Stage 1.61 boys were examined, and 51 passed. The first eleven gained full marks, and the first twenty-five were especially mentioned :YilUam J. Roberts, Henry Edwarda. Frederick Phillips. Andrew O. Jones, Ernest Wynne, Robert Evans, Henry Jones, Bertram EarnsU^w, Abraham Mvers, Frederick Jones, lUcliard Elias, George Richardson," Edward Williams, Montague Moore, Harold Powell, Harold Horton, liichard T. Groom, Frederick Mason, Owen M. Jones; James Edwards, Arthur Hall, Henry F. Jones, Walter Dipple, William E. Davies, Albert Franklin, William Johnson, Robert Pieken, Alfred H. Jones, Bertie Morrison, Charles Howell, Charles Bessell, Robert Barber, William Hughes, William Edwards, Arthur Rogers, Percy Bandies, William Cailerky, John Williams, Charles Evans, Edward Francis, Oswald Davies, William Griffiths, John H. Wheeler. David Williams, William H. Jones, Ernest Andrews, JrJm J. Wheeler, Jriiu Keating, Percy Kowland, Nathaniel Thomas, Albert E. Roberts, and Reginald Potter. The "specially mentioned" boys obtained SO per cc-t. of marks. DBAWING.— Iii this subject also the excellent grant was awarded by the Science and Art Department. The fol- lowing second grade successes were also gained :—Free- hand: l'rvcc Evans (first-class), Joseph ilson(iirst-class), Mary Selina Jojics and Robert J. Johnson. Geometry Pryce Evans (excellent), Joseph Wilson (excellent)r and John Owen. Four boys were presented for Sixth Standard certificates, all of whom passed, namely, Stanley Horton, John 0. Jones, Percv Rogers, Hugh G. Jones. NoitTH W ALKS SCHOLAzisHip ASSOCBTIOX. At the annual examination seven boys sat. Of these, Fred Davies was placed first, and Horace Blew second, out of seventy candidates. Neither of them obtained the highest scholar- ship, however, as the third boy was younger. Two boys, John O. Jones and John M. Hughes, obtained honors, and Stanley Horton, Henry H. Hughes, and James Y. Edgar I were tirst, second, and third, respectively, on the pass list. GIRLS' DEPARTMENT. The number on books on October 31st, 1891, was 236, being an increase of 23 on that of 1890. The average attendance for the year was 184, being an increase of 18. The following girls have attended 420 times and over, out of a possible 443:—Annie Jackson, Madeira House, 443: Susy J. Davies, Roxburgh Place, 443; Lucy Ilanmer, I'cny- brvii. 443; Bessie Hughes. Brook-street, 443 Florence Holland, Crescent-road, 443; Martha Thomas, Lambpit- street, 443; ltlioda Jones, Brook-street, 439; Jessie G. Jones, Church-street, 439; Alice Jones, College-street, 438; Mabel Rogers, Cunlilfe-street, 438; Jane Roberts, Brook- street, 437; Annie ltoberts, Brewery Place, 437; Mary Jones, Heap Terrace, 436; Primrose Pierce, Shrewsbury- road, 435 Ada Evans, Vicarage Hill, 434; Alice Hanmer, Pcnybryn, 432; Bessie Griffiths, Crescent-road, 431; Louisa Jones, l'eutrefelin, 431; Jessie Cameron, Chester-street, 423; Lizzie Peters, ileifod Place, 428; Emily Stanford, Regent-street, 427 Edith Evans, Garden-road, 427 G. Copleston, Hill-street, 426 Florence Field, Stanley-road, 426; Florence Belmont, Sniithfield-road, 426; Emily Hughes, Loriie-Street, 425; Mildred Franklin, Bury-street, 425; Jane Evans, Vicarage Hill, 425; Eveline Smallwood, Charles-street, 425; Edith Hockenhull, Hope-street, 424; Mary E. Jones, Cemetery House, 423; Ellen M. Gorman, Nelson-street, 421; Emma Jackon, Madeira House, 421. DOMESTIC ECONOMY.—In Stage II. tour girls were examined, all of whom passed—Sissie Hughes, Marion Jones, Maggie Fletcher, Emma Ellis. In iitage 1. tittecn girl,; were examined, and all passed—A. M. Moore, Annie Jackson, Edith Rogers, Annie G. illiams, Mary F. Morgan, Florence Perkins, Emily Davies, Mary K. Griffiths, Alice Hanmer, .Leah Willeock, Maggie heefe, Florence Hedley, Maggie Jones, Sarah A. Seddon, and Sarah E. Roberts. (lhe names are given in order of merit.) INFANT DEPARTMENT.—The number on books on Oct. 31st, 1891, was 293, and the average attendance 163. The following children made over 400 attendances out of a possible 441 .-—John W. Tudor, Market-street, 441; Jessie Roberts, College-street, 433; Florence Thomas, Lambpit- street, 432; John Hobert Williams, Regent-street, 4il Sophia Hughes, Erddig-road, 427; David Hamer, Fairfield street, 427; Ellen Smallwood, Charles-street, 427; Maude Willeock, Penybryn, 426; Walter Bosker, Princcss-street, 425; Grace Griffiths, Beast Market, 422; Joseph Smith, Lambpit-strcet, 422; Wm. Dutton, Victoria-street, 421; Sydney Field, Stanley-street, 420; May Savage, Mount- street, 418; Beatrice Griffiths, Beast Market, 415; Henry Fill, Offa Terrace, 414; Jane Clutton, Ruabon-road, 411 Lucy Picken, Offa Terrace, 410 Harrv Jones, Pentrefelin, 408; Wm. J. Williams, 408; Albert Beech, Mount-street, 407; Thomas Dodd, Offa Terrace, 407; Wm. Finder, 406 Jane Hughes, Abbot-street, 405; Maria Thomas, Mount- street, 405; Rose Beech, Mount-street. 405; Alfred Garret, Earle-street, 404; Rose Davies, Brook-street, 404; Emily Dutton, Victoria-street, 403 and Edith illiams, Mount- street, 400. ,IIF-DAI.ISTs.-To the two boys who gained the highest aggregate number of marks in Euclid and Algebra, Stages 11. and III., silver medals were presented, they were John O. Jones and Henry Richardson. The two girls who headed the list in domestic economy in Stages 1. and II. also earned silver medals, they were Sissie Hughes and Angelina M. Moore (deceased.) Mr JONES referred to the question of attendance of the scholars. He pointed out that under the Assisted Education Act, the grant for attendance was calcu- lated upon the average attendance, and consequently, the absence of any of the pupils was a pecuniary loss to the school. He asked the parents to see that the scholars came regularly to school. A party of boys gave a musical sketch, The Smith," in costume, after which another party gave a clever display of their skill A--ith Indian clubs. Miss Roberts and Mr Fagan sang an amusing duet, Love and pride," which was encored. A party of girls sang a tuneful song, accompanied by shield drill, which proved pretty. Then followed the distribution of certificates by Mrs Simon Jones. During it there was a touching in- cident. A silver medal for domestic economy had been won by a pupil who had since died. Mr Simon Jones in tasteful terms referred to the event, and a pupil wearing a black sash, was invested with the medal by Mrs Jones. The incident was truly pathetic, and the audience expressed its sympathy by sup- pressing its applause. At the close of the presentation, the Chairman pro- posed a vote of thanks to Mrs Jones, who he said was well known to be at the disposal of all good causes. Councillor THOMAS JONES seconded, and the vote having been passed, Mr Simon Jones responded. Mr J. HOPLEY PIERCE proposed a vote of thanks to the Chairman, which having been seconded by Mr SDIOX JONES, was carried. The CHAIRMAN in reply, heartily congratulated Mr Dodd, Miss Griffiths, and Miss Kennan, and the teachers upon the excellent programme they had provided. After a party of boys had sung an amusing medley, Multum in Parvo," the meeting closed with the National Anthem."

CORRESPONDENCE. RUSSIAN FAMINE FUND. SIR,-In response to the appeal which has been made by the Society of Friends on behalf of the famine stricken peasants in Russia, and to which I recently referred in your columns, I acknowledge the receipt of the following sums which have been for- warded through me:—Mr J. Rogers. 5s Mr R. Stobo, 10s; Mr John Bury. 10s 6d: Mrs W ilson, XI; A Friend, JE3; Dr. Burlingham. 10s 6d; Miss Bur- lingham, 4s 6d E. S. L., XI Is Mr J. Underwood, 5s; Mr J. C. Gee, 10s 6d Mr W. B. Phillips, 5s; Mr Evans, Marchwiel, £ 2 Miss Heyward, 15s. The fund is still open, and I shall be glad to for- ward any further contributions that may be sent to me. The total sum collected is now about £ 30.000.— 1 am, ARE.. ALFRED DAIUJY. Wren's Nest, Wrexham, March 23rd, 1892. VILLAGE LIBRARIES. Sin,—In connection with the present agitation for promoting the welfare of our rural population, we think it may interest your readers to know that with a view to helping forward this movement, we are willing to supply a set of the volumes published in the" National Library at half the published price, on the condition that the library is vested in respon- sible persons who will take proper care of it, that the place shall be one in which no bookseller already resides, and that any volumes required beyond those mentioned shall be purchased through the book- sellers. It is absolutely necessary for us to make the latter stipulation so as to avoid interfering with trade through the ordinary channels. Already in Ireland and Wales this proposal has been accepted by the numerous villages, and we think that when the offer becomes known in England and Scotland, many village communities may be glad to avail themselves of it. There are upwards of 200 volumes in our National Library, and on the conditions mentioned these can be obtained to form the nucleus of a library at a cost of 27s. The National Library has received the cordial ap- proval of her Majesty and of the leading statesmen of the day. and several million volumes have aheady been circulated at home and abroad. India and Japan, especially, are using large quan. tities of the" National Library." and it may interest your readers to know that orders for nearly 20,000 copies have within the past few days reached ns from two booksellers alone in these countries. By the adoption of such cheap, popular, and standard works in our village communities the dul- ness of village life (to which frequent reference has been made) might be sensibly lightened, and fresh elevating influences introduced.—We are, Ac., CASSELI. IT COMPANY, LTD. La Belle Sauvage, Ludgate Hill, E.G., London.

COLLIERS AND POLITICS. SII:,—Please allow these few remarks on 14 Charter- master's letter in your last issue. It strikes one as very funny to hear, in the first place, of this gentle- man's title, chartermaster." It gives me the idea that he is not a true workman. I am afraid he has come to this position through being connected with his superiors. This system of working has. in our district, been made away with, and every workman is now on the same footing; and the sooner the better this is the case in all districts, so that every workman shall have the benefit of his labor for himself rather than anyone else should reap the benefit. Secondly, it strikes me as still funnier to see that he is a Tory workman. It is high time for every workman to be a sound Liberal, and to embrace the Liberal piO- gramme. This gentleman vould be sorry to find himself under the Tory yoke as i n the last century. It is only through our great Liberal members that we have been brought up to the position we are in at present as a working class. At our last meeting in the Rhos, we were struck by the idea that every Tory member on the "Denbigh County Council was against supporting the reform ia the royalties question, while all the Liberal members voted for the motion. Therefore, it is quite useless for Chartermaster to accuse our agent because he accepted the invitation to contest the Stansty division, and for which he had the approval of the majority of the district meeting. I feel sure that we need labor representatives on the County Councils, so that all will be able to know about our grievances. I can assure the writer that our agent would stand up for our rights, both as Tories and Liberals. Let us cast away the foolish ideas and rally together as workmen, so as to have men from our ranks to fill the seats where our interests are dealt with. Ctuirter- master" asked why omr agent did not stand as a. candidate for Penycae division instead of Ms Simon Jones-a foreigner." I venture to assert that we are proud of Mr Simon Jones to represent us. He is not a foreigner. He is well acquainted with a great portion of this. district, and we will stand to him as long as lie will work like lie has during his last term. We have in the persons of Messrs Jones and Hooson two really good representatives, and I p.m only sorry to sav that our agent had been defeated at Stan sty. He would, no doubt, have worked liand-iu-harul with the two other members to do his utmost for the colliers cd North Wales as a member on the County Council. I hope in future that party feelings will be put aside, and all work together m harmony—the only one way in which we will be able to get our rights.—I am, Ac.. THOMAS HUGHES, Checkweigher, HafoO. SIR,—Please allow me to state that I have not written a line with ieference to our agent and his political views. Soxiie people are more ready to try and injure others than to do them good. A man these days is accused for other pcoptc's mtiona. Would it not be advisable for the accusers to pay more attention to the following phrase Mind your own business ? At a recent district meeting a com- plaint was made about the agent opposing Sir Robert. At that meeting I said that some of the men at the colliery which I represent also complained in the same manner but I wish this to be fully understood, that such complaint did not hail from any of the officials, but from certain Liberals that are working men in the colliery. This I should wish to be fully noticed. I write the above to clear myself from fprtn.in accusations that are made against me.—I am, dire. ,u-- ISAAC LL. THOMAS, Gwersyllt.

SIK,—I was not aware before I had seen the cor- respondence in the columns of your last issue that we, the miners of North Wales, who boast so much of our freedom, when we engaged our agent had pur- chased him out and out, body, soul, and spirit, hence- forth and for ever, and that he shall not have or hold any opinions of his own politically, and if he has any lie must not tell anyone for fear it should get to the ears of Tory Colliers" and Chartermasters," fossils of the dark ages. If I was in their place I would get a non-political agent. If they cannot find one, I will undertake to get one for them. I have seen one in a field by Chirk scaring crows. I will beg it for them if they like, but I am glad to know that the great majority of miners are of a different way of thinking to either "Tory Colliers" or "Charter- masters." They hold their own opinions, and are not afraid of expressing them, and one of them is that our agent should be allowed to express his opinion as freely as any other miner in North Wales or any- where else. I am sure it is a great consolation to our agent to know that it is not to the Tory miners that lie has to look for his wages, but to the over- whelming majority of Liberal miners. Again, it is the opinion of a vast number that he should go further still. If through some misfortune, which God for- bid, we should lose our present representative in the House of Commons lie should contest the seat in the labor interest. Why not our agent, as well as Messrs Pickard, Burt, Mabon, and others. ;)o you think that we are going to allow a few Tories to stop us in our forward movement? Not likely If they cannot follow us they must catch hold behind, and we will do all we can to draw them after us.—I am, &c., GKOKGE ROWLEY.

NORTH WALES MINERS' FEDERATION. Siiz,-It is evident tome thatour friend "Maelorian" knows little or nothing about the business transacted by the delegates at the district meetings, but, reading between the lines, I think he would like to know, and to take part in the same. Very likely he considers himself qualified to be a representative, and that the men ought to send him. The sooner the better I say, and lie will learn to his sorrow that he cannot have all his own way there. He will und that he will have to meet other delegates who may differ in opinion to him, and probably they will upset the whole of the castles that he has been building in the air. He says that there is not much business done in the district, that the men are misled, and money thrown away f6r naught. What about our position as a Federation in North Wales at present compared with what it was a few years ago, when there were only six or seven collieries represented, while at present we have 25 collieries in the union as well as an agent ? Is that money thrown away? It may be from Maelorian s" point of view. I believe he is one of a certain class that we meet with occasionally who, every time they are compelled to pay threepence to a levy, expect to get 20 per cent. advance in their wages, and you never hear the last of it. Then he charges the Ruabon delegates with sitting as dumb as milestones. Well, he cannot say that we are of no use. Mile- stones, in my opinion, are very useful. We read them, and they tell us how far we have come, and how far we have to go on our way, and that is something, and I for my part would prefer to be a milestone than a linger-post pointing the wrong way, as is evidently our friend "Maelorian's" intention. But, sir, what I want to point out is the ignorance our friend labors under. We in Ruabon district are continually charged with having too much to say in the business, and in regard to the Wrexhamites falling out with one another, it is utterly untrue, and evidently inserted with the intention of misleading and disuniting us as a Federa- tion. As to the two collieries that worked during the week's play, we are no more responsible for them than Maelorian," or perhaps not so much if he would only be man enough to insert his name.—I am, I JL-c., GKOKGE ROWLEY, Checkweigher, Black Park Colliery, Chirk. SIR,-In your issue of last Saturday Maelorian comes out in alarming tones concerning the Ruabon representatives to the district meeting. How long is it since he ceased to be an active member of the body ? I suppose his sore point is that he has ceased to be a recipient of the money spent by the district, and possibly he was a candidate and failed in his endeavour to be an agent. But, poor fellow, he has lost all, and now he is in the same position as before, and he wants all the colliers in Ruabon district to re-elect the delegates to see whether he can't have another chance. But I hope that the colliers of Ruabon district will be careful in their selection and keep Maelorian out, or else he will have meetings every day, because he likes to hear himself bray.—I am, &-c., MAELORYDD. SIR R. CUNLIFFE AND THE COUNTY COUNCIL. Sin,—When the late President Lincoln was in the State Legislature of Illinois, there was a certain member there representing Wabash County, who was continually raising objections and creating difficulties based oil purely imaginary grounds. He once attacked Lincoln, who entertained him in reply with the following obserya.tions Mr Speaker, the attack of the member from "Wabash upon the unconstitu- tionality of this measure, reminds me of an old friend of mine. He is a peculiar looking old fellow, with shaggy overhanging eyebrows, and a pair of spectacles under them—[being a description of the member froiii Wa b isli. j from Wabash.]—One morning, just as the old man got up, he imagined he saw a squirrel on a tree near his house. So he took down his rifle and fired at the squirrel, but the squirrel paid no at- tention to the shot. He loaded and fired again, until at the thirteenth shot, he set down his gun impatiently, and said to his boy who was looking on, 'Boy! There's something wrong about this rifle.' 'Rifle's all right, I know t'is,' responded the boy, but where's your squirrel ?' Don't you see him humped up about half way up the treeinquired the old man peering over his spectacles and getting mystified.' No I don't,' responded the boy, and then turning and looking into his father's face he ex- claimed. I see your squirrel. You've been jlriibj at a louse upon your ou-ii eyo,l)i-oic It is said Mr Editor, that one does not load a rifle to shoot a fly" — and I do not think any public or private good will result from a newspaper wrangle between myself and Sir Robert Cunliffe about a grievance which, as everyone who has read the local papers must be aware, exists exclusively in that gentleman's own imagina,tion (o)- on hii e!le-bi-oit-). The only serious notice therefore that I propose to take of his long letter is to refer him to two of my speeches (in which I have dealt with the points he has raised). An accurate report of one, delivered at Burton, is contained in the Wrexham Advertiser of February 27th, last. A report of the other, delivered at Rossett, is contained in the Chester Chronicle of March 5th last. For the rest, I re-echo Sir Robert's sentiments, and leave the matter "with great confidence" to the judgment of the public."—I am, &-c., Broad Oak, March 23rd, 1892. SAMUEL Moss. I WREXHAM NATIONAL SCHOOLS. I SIR,-The year 1892 marking a new departure in elementary education, the annual meeting with its musical and prize giving accompaniments of schools, which are as noble in design and extent as they are comparatively thinly attended, is unusually interest- ing. As a practical educator, I have read the account of the meeting, and beg to offer a few remarks thereon. Having understood from the local Press last year, that fees were to be abolished altogether in these schools, it is with regret, I notice, that for all older scholars, fees averaging 2d (Id, 2nd, and 3rd) are charged. Of the three contributory boroughs of Wrexham, Ruthin, and Denbigh, onr own has hitherto held the unenviable distinction of charging the highest fees in its National schools, those of the last two being only about 5s. They, like about ninety per cent. of the elementary schools of Denbighshire," take the fee grant of 10s a head, actually gain thereby, and at the same time sweep away the odious-sliding scale of knowledge, peculiarly British and insular, it never having existed in Greater Britain," in the few colonies that have retained fees. With as much reverence for consistency and divine tsotiu charges for pews in the parish church of 3s, 5s, and Ss, would be levied instead of all being free and open. The Mayor seems to have forgotten, from the way in which he spoke of School Boards, that Wrexham has had one for nearly twenty years, daring which it must have cost us more than £ 2.000. By tke last re- port, the various items in connection had swelled to to meet which iE200, or a rate of Id and 1-10th was laid on a rateable value of about 4*14,000. But the Mayor, while ignoring this, after alhwiiag to. hi h rates under peculiar circumstances outside the borough, went on to say that zE2,000 asnsaally might I have to be raised. The following figures show how tbaae feairs. are exaggerated. The recent census shows that there are in the borough 2,352 houses, and 12,552 inhabitants. Sufficient places, in fairly and even SQliendidlv built schools, already exist. The actual school population (4th) is 2,500, and the actual average attendance just before the census was 1,400, or one in nine.. Let us suppose that under- freedom of fee-xlet alone other attractions, 2,000 attended regularly, their education would not exceed £ 4,000. As increased numbers and good teachers seoure in numerous schools, Church and Board, 20s a head of Parliamentary grant, and as there would be tfce fee grant of 1& also,, £ 3,000 would thus be provided leaving only £ 1,060 to be supplied, and not £ 2,000.. A rate of 6d in the pound would more than maet this. Let warkmgmert especially note this, as after September raext, in ev.!èlY borough in the kingdom, the ratepayers, will be entitled to have a free school, which will thus b& restored to Wrexham after many years* that school being unsectariasv a.nd under a School Board. Let them remember also, that it means, the abilitv for 4s a ysrar, or Id per weet for all bis children. to receive to the highest standard a. good education. If thai is held out by Mr bournes as & burden on thf town grnjvous to be borne* one Eatarally asks boloa many parents spend fc»x timea as much on Ur famous beverage m the of which he hR. so 2&rge a share. — There is another point in connection with schools that we are interested in, as their aaain supporters and as taxpayers, via., their balanccssheet The parliamentary return last year is as follows 11,131 places, 608 average attendance, X359 f<ses, &c., subscriptions £ £ S?V endowments S20, parliamentarv grant ;M59. A? the '?m?agers." who a?m la?elv our zealous "v.?&nd his curates" h? t&kenthe ?done ??it '??? least 130(X- What has been ^doCnJe witAh l it I The school fees, :eing 2d, or 68 8d  retained for the older ?ra. brmg? for 430 QI50 a. year. As there i? strong probabiHty th?t th? tu??t a.ttend?pce, stJ:cip not only th? fee I grant of 10^, but the parliamentary, has increased there will be £100 to the good the tirsr. year but note an appeal was made for increased subscriptions. It would be only fair under these circumstances to give the Press of the borough at leilst the same items of receipt and expenditure that are published annually in the report of its School Board in the Blue Book. I observe that Sir R. Cunliffe in his address, told some unpleasant truths, bearing on the system on which, as belonging to the National Society, these schools are worked. He pointed out the irregularity of attendance of the older and fee paying scholars but he seems to have overlooked the money question in connection. When he appealed to parents to bend their children to the religiuiu lesson, he Hceius to have forgotten that dogmas and doctrines are tai!«ht' in which a large proportion of them cannot believe Let him ask what the church has gained during the last twenty years by the privilege it has enjoyed, largely at the public cost, of teaching it* peuuiiaJ doctrines, in the only school in a Welsh vilJagû or parish, where the buik are Nonconformists. If the parents avail themselves of the "Conscience Clau-e and keep their children away for the first hour, the attendance is made artificially irregular, and if they do attend, experience shows that though 627 out ( -)f tiIle 1,431 elementary schools in Wales, are thus con* ducted, Welshmen are more sturdy Nonconformists than ever,—I aiii, &-c-, March 18th, 1892. A PRACTICAL EIII (.AT<PI> I BEWARE WHAT YE HE \R < 13EWARE WIIAT YE HE, Alt! Siit,-Your correspondent of last week, rtferrhw to a C hurch History" lecture (which to-dav are legion ), was wise, in detecting the aim and purport of these several lectures, to bolster uu II historic church!" not recognising, its lie wisely .? it, tilt? the Church of to-day is not built up on 'i crumbling sands of time. nether of that which i'? been, but of that which is, viz., the Spirit of 1;?e Living God!" which same has no "dead" hut only a living one, even as it is the same sirrir ,,f life which builds up to-day ad did in the history, and is not referable to ext:rn.d prdvII- sions, but only "internal," ,iz. The K:¡¡gd()JII of Heaven is within you So that, wherever YOll have a need for "externals. there you way he hir.- the internal" is awanting; for the internal life is begotten from no outward or historic sunrce. but o!lly is it received in the heart and in the life, from til giver of His life, which never dies. ilistorv and" forms and ceremonies," die. hat "tin- life f Christ." which has no part, neither share with "these things, lives and abides the same for ever • which same life is the Church of Christ." even as it is the body," sent into the worSc.of "the Ilolv Ghost," and has no "outward edifice," save only "the temple of this body," which is separate from all outward and historic symbolism." eitHer" voire of man," seeing it is the voice of God. which is "spirit and life, and has no external observation ve it effect, for no "material" of this present is •• life-. neither any "church," neither any form or cere- mony," neither any bread and wine," neither any t.ol)-ierv.ttion" whatsoever of this present dispensa- tion; but only" the spirit of the Living God," which comes from no man, and neither any church, seeing is is "begotten of God," unto whomsoever lie MJJJ and He" is the judge of all men, unto life and unto death. Therein alone have we the Church of Gorl," which is separ"te from all past history, even as it is "the present," which is not obtained from "the past," but is one with it, insomuch as it is "one with Christ." But, if other than this, then is it no "Church of Christ, but only "history," which hits no judgment if it abode "in error," as that "the past" is the means of producing "the present," for God alone is "the means, which these that proclaim an historic past of "outward deeds alld symbolism, and priestly assumption," testify that they ignore, in all their deeds and works (which to-day are legion.") For if "Christ" is all-sufficient U.Ilto all purposes, then is there no need for .1 Chw:ch history, but only for the "present dispensation of life," which coincth from above, and knows no man after the flesh." Beware what ye hear! for there are "grievous wolves'" entered in. which wouId usurp this "power of God," which is "spirit and life," and would substitute the participation of "materialism" in religion, begotten of devils, which know the outer manifestation in •• the letter" of this life, but their hearts are alienated from the true source," which is separate from men, even as it cometh from above for God is one. and ve only are one in Him," and know man "after the flesh," which is ignorance and vani ty, begotten Of the presumption and arrogance of the past, wherein is all manner of lies and deceit, begotten of •'jimerstitinn -1 and harlotry," which in tiiiies past God winked at, hut now commandeth all men, everywhere. to repent." Repent ye, for the Kmgdom of Heaven is at hand !-i am. tfce., A CIIUI>TIAN. NUTS TO CRACK. SIIS,—The miners' stop week has come, but not altogether gone, for it is of necessity prolonged, through falls in the mines and disorganisation of trade. Query How long will it be before millers are fully employed ? A great experiment has been tried, and we learn the miners' leaders are satisfied. Query Are their dupes satisfied ? The average wage per week of a miner, hewers and fillers, will be about twenty-tive shillings. Query: Is not a week's stop practically equivalent to a voluntary reduction of 2* per cent., and :L fortnight equal to 5 per cent., this assuming regular work for ensuing twelve months at current wages The stocks of coal in North Wales do not exist, the few wagons kept as a reserve during stop v.eek have not been inquired for. Query: Has the stop week cleared stocks in North Wales ? The principal customers for North Wales coal at the shipping ports have got their supplies from South W ales. Query: Won't they continue to do o. seeing that a sliding scale arrangement is in force there, and regular supplies may be depended on, and there will be no eccentricities of North Wales ruiners to contend with. With the shipping trade crippled, and the local trade cllrlailel by warm weather. Query: Will not iI be necessary to reduce output. To get a million and a half tons of coal, and pav the same rate of wages for it as paid at presant. will not require so many men as to get two millions. Query: Which will be the best. to employ al! hands at a reduced wage and tiiiie, or fewer hands at pre- sjnt wage and full time, and have 25 per cent, of the miners idle. On March 1st last. the Yorkshire owners and the Yorkshire Miners Association met to discuss matters arising out of underselling in Yorkshire (no complaint. of this kind has been made in any other district, and note, that it is the Yorkshire miners who meet, not the Federated Miners.) The underselling was alleged to be due to over supply; the proposal to restrict the get in Yorkshire was met by the chairman (Mr Chambers, of Newton Chambers and Co.) by the suggestion that the policy of restriction should be general, or the markets for Yorkshire coal would be supplied from elsewhere. The principal men of the Yorkshire Miners Asso- ciation are also prominent leaders of the general Federation. Query Was not the stop week eiitireiv brought about to suit the Yorkshire miners and owners to enable that district to rid itself of stocks, and did thu men at Newton Chambers Collieries agree to work eleven hours per day for some time before the 12th March, so as to get eyerybody supplied with fuel ? Clever Yorkshiremen. Does North Wales coal compete with Yorkds'ro at any place, if not. Query Why did the North Wales miners suffer themselves to be made tools and fool of It is certain the stop week originated and was for the benefit of Yorkshire miners and owners. Query Who gulled the Federation ? W isdom is a plant of slow growth we are told. Query: Has it taken root in the minds and hearts of the chief Priests and Elders of the North Wales miners, will they profit by recent experiences Assuming all my queries to be capable of a negative solution, what is the direct and present cost ot this wonderful experiment to North Lost wages to the miners and others, unproductive expenditure and cost to mineowners not less than £ 15.500 per week. Miners of North Wales You are induced to play for a week; it is called a holiday-a plausible and deceptive name for a strike. Had you been called oil to strike, it would have awakened in your minds re- collections of loses and misery of times past. Let them be times past, hut be no substitute for these other methods equally harmful, and against our best interests. A thousand, thousand times better that you should yield to circumstances we cannot control than all should be strangled by such an abortion and deception as this last move. Do we get more of the commodities of life by declining the only means to procure them Do we live by. starvmg ? Are we one hair's breadth nearer the objects alleged to be in view—viz., the mainten- ance of a price for coal higher than the trade of the country will afford ? Not a bit of it.—I am. Aw. A H.uHI -Ni-r I

COL. WEST, M.P., AND WEST I DENBIGHSHIRE. On Tuesday afternoon a caucus- mediug of Con- servatives was held at the Castle, Ruthin, the sent of Col. Cornwallis West, M.P., for the liinpo-: ft inducing Col. West to become the Unionist candidate in opposition to Mr Herbert Roberts in Denbighshire. It is said that Col. West consented to do so. and his already fixed upon un went ui 3. prominent Lcjieral of Rutllln- There were no Liberals present at the meeting.

ELOPEMENT AT (sWERNYMYNYDD- I There 1.1î1.S been a good deal of gossip during thfc week corning the disappearance of a m-uaied mutt h..< 1 d;r I Vp'I' having live c hil d ren, with a married woman haviliU seven ca-eight an event which occurred on Tuesday in last vaeek, and notwithstanding immv and extended inquurm nothing has bo;eeii heard of either ever sjace. I is, said that the two had been suspected, and on the TucjAav-as the storv got a good, deal of telhag- the: lan, who ia 4Sye?trs of .?e, w?nt to th? mall. wi* the result that he went home, made ?'?"? ?tMtCe of app&re!. ?at upwards of E20 itt 'u- p'f?' a:" then the pair decamped nobodv kuo??"'?"" f? ?ved not far fwm America" while sh? 1?'? "?" jj from Jamsuca "—two vtell-ltnowit th !I,,(I j; hoods near Gwe»»jrmynydd wid. until a month I. J ) 're J11 i| wt a breath of suspicion re??ad on either. w ho aii; !i humble life, b? both respectably connected. It "d they werc'Iovern in their vouth. aud t?.'? husband of tb^ one has been ill fui a lo)t? t:"?'- -?", now receives. earish relief.,

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