Wrexham and Denbighshire Advertiser and Cheshire Shropshire and North Wales Register

THE CELTIC CHARACTER. I ADDRESS BY MR JUSTICE VAUGHAN I WILLIAMS. On Saturday night, at the Royal Institution, Mr Justice Vaughan Williams addressed a meeting of the Liverpool Welsh National Society on "The Celtic Character." The judge said the question he proposed to offer for their consideration was why the Celts, with all their brilliancy and genius, never succeeded in producing a successful political State, while their much dulier Teutonic cousins, separately and in combination m cases where the Teutonic element lind preponderated, had such signal political success. In attempting to compare Celt and Teuton one was met with the initial difficulty of determining who were Celts and who were Teutons. Was there a Celtic race ? Was there a Teutonic race ? Was there any broad racial distinction between Celts and Teutons, er were they merely different nations belonging to the same stock ? It seemed to him there were clearly to be discerned, among the peoples we knew as Celtic, broad, characteristic features, both moral and physical, which justified-nay, more, com- pelled one to recognise a racial distinction between the Celts and the Teutons. He discussed some of the characteristics of these two types, with the view of ascertaining why one set of the characteristics should have produced one political result, and the other set a different result. The characteristics of the Celts seemed to be quick-wittedness, depth of religious feeling, love of the fine arts, passion and energy, sympathy (including politeness), a tendency to oppose the public law as distinguished from the private law of the tribe or family, a lack of love of personal liberty. The Celts could not be said to be orderly and practical. They were rather addicted to theorv. and were dreamers on the past. The charac- teristics of the Teutons were love of liberty and respMt for the rights of men, respect of the law when made by themselves—(laughter)—a love of justice, at all cycnts towards those ot their own race, a love of labour, coupled with a love of taking relaxation after I 1 laDour in a sensuous, animal fashion, certainly not esthetic; a tendency to obey the public law, an absence of high artistic capacity, a laborious logical faculty. The Teutons were emphatically industrious, plodding, orderly, practical, and never sacrificed the present or the future to sentiment or dreams on the past. Such seemed to him to be the characteristics of the two races, and he proposed to say a few words in respect of the particular characteristic to the absence and presence of which he attributed the great difference in the political position of the two races-the love of individual liberty. It was very generally assumed that love of individual liberty was to a large extent, based upon a form of government adopted by the race in its earlier history. No doubt this to a large extent was true, but he did not think that liberty resulted so much from the form of institutions as from the spirit in which the govern- ment was administered. So far ItS he had been able to make out, in form and theory, Teuton institutions in general, and Anglo-Saxon institutions in parti- cular, did not favour personal liberty much more than the Celtic institutions but he endeavoured to show by the examination of the history of the two races that the circumstances of the Teutons had been more lavouraule to the development of a love of liberty. He went on to say that the question he had put might be answered by denying the pre- misses. Sonu- people might deny the brilliant genii:* of the- Celtic race. Some might deny their political failure. Again, some might assert that the Teutons had greater brilliancy and more genius. Some. again, might deny the political success of the Teutons, whether separately or in combination. He offered, therefore, a few observations in support of his premisses. As to the brilliancy and genius of the Celts, he said writers of all nations seemed to assume this as an axiom and there was no doubt :hat for many centuries the Celtic civilisation of these islands was far in advance of anything to be found in the whole Gothic brood. Celtic civilisation, the outcome of inherent Celtic genius, was eminent long before the Teutons made any considerable advance in civilisation. Evidence as to this he gave in considerable detail. Taking up his next point, he asked whether anyone could doubt that the Celts as political bodies had been a failure. Could anyone point at any time in history to a successful Celtic nation ? Then as to the Teutons. Was it true that in brilliancy of genius they were inferior to the Celts ? He did not mean to say that the Teutons had not produced as many and as eminent examples of successful work. They had indeed produced more, but their successful work was the result of plodding labour rather than of brilliant genius. Everything came slowly and with labour to the Teuton, even his civilisation. But he was speaking of that sort of genius which no labour could supply, such as the manly genius which made leaders of men, or the artistic geuius which was born in the true artist. He claimed for the Celts that in that sense they far sur- passed the Teutons. Then had the Teuton race pro- duced successful political States ? If it was allow- able to refer to the political successes of thelEnglish- spc-uking nations as proof of the political capacity of the Teutonic races—and he could not conceive why one should not do so—England and the United States were a sufficient proof of the political capacity of the Teutons. The German Empire at the present moment was also surely a great example of a Teutonic political success. He claimed for the Teutonic race that they had never lost the one secret of ultimate political success—the love of liberty and respect for the rights of men. German liberty, with its neces- sary consequence, Geiman civilisation, had come slowly, laboriously, as all German work did, but it came at last. Attractive France, more than half Celtic, had now and again dazzled Europe with a temporary political pre-eminence but it was the streak of Teuton blood and Teuton character which had so often saved France, and it was Celtic blood and Celtic characteristics which so often had gone so near to shipwreck her fortunes. Having tried to justify the premisses on which his question was based, he would ask again why were the brilliant Celts a failure as nations, and why were the Teutons a political success ? He suggested that the Celts failed chiefly from lack of love of individual liberty in thought and in act. The Celt by nature was a hero-worshipper or the slave of an idea. His genius was always limned by loyalty to his chosen chief or a master idea. Both were essentially local. At home freedom of thought and action, freedom of criticism, and freedom of progress were treason to the chief or the master idea. Probably no one would deny this in respect of the tribal or clan period. No one would deny that it was the tribal system and the want of unity of the Irish as a whole which destroyed the ecclesiastical civilisation of Ireland, and which pre- vented the Welsn from attaining that unity necessary to resist the power of their Anglo-Saxon neighbours. But did not one instinctively recognise the same characteristics in the Celts of modern times ? Did not one feel that a Parnell would have been an impossibility outside the more Celtic portions of Great Britain Did not one feel that it was the large Celtic element in Prance which made the French people in the days of the French Revolution rush headlong in an indistinguishable mass in pursuit of impossible equality, which made the Napoleonic dictator possible, and which made the French Re- publicans of the present moment yearn for a hero to worship ? Was it not the Celtic element which made the brilliant Irishmen of the present day decide every question which arose not according to the intrinsic merits on the one side or the other, bet according to the consideration of how far the answer afforded sup- port to the Home Rule idea ? Was it not the tendency of the Celts in a flock to take up an idea to the exclusion of individual judgment that made Celtic communities the happy hunting ground of political and social faddists'! (Laughter.) This local tyranny seemed to him the negation of that in- dividual freedom of thought and action which was essential in the citizens of a great nation. If he were asked whence came this tendency to local worships, to local imitations of individual freedom so prejudicial to national development, he would aii'Cest that the Celtic character took its origin in trioal systems, under which individual freedom and the idea of individual freedom was stunted by loyalty te the chief. The tribal Celt, whether Welshman, Irishman, or Highlander, had no sense of national unity, but made a hero of his local chieftain, and bad no thought outside loyalty to his chief and his clan or tribe and the chief himself had no ambition beyond the success of the clan or tribe. The tendency of Celtic laws and Celtic customs had always been to curtail individual eminence lest it should trench upon the pre-eminence of the popular chief or hamper the development of a local master idea. Did not everyone feel that it was outside rather than within Celtic com- munities that the illustrious Celts of modern times had sprung into eminence ? If the Celts all stayed at home, and occupied themselves only with matters of local interest, he was afraid they would be a dull race despite Celtic genius. But it was, nevertheless, their Celtic characteristics, born of Celtic blood in their Celtic homes, to which greater freedom and a wider field gave the opportunity of healthy develop- ment which had so long been wanting. He hoped that nothing he had said about the Celts and Teutons would be thought depreciatory of Celtic nationalism. (Hear, hear.) He deemed nationalism essential to Celtic development he only deprecated a stunted nationalism—what had been termed parochial nationalism. (Applause.) Celtic genius could not thrive when confined by narrow territorial limits. It nc-edecl access to larger fields of exercise, to wider openings of opportunity. It could not thrive in a sphere where individual libertv of thought and action was controlled by local littleness. Let the Celts once recognise that Celtic genius was missionary, that they mnst not devote to local ambitions the talents meant for mankind, that they must not substitute dreams of the past for hopes of the future, and he had no fear of the political future of the Celtic race, or that the Celtic nations within these islands would not assume the position in the political partnership of this Empire to which they were so justly entitled. (Applause.) Never before in any historical times had the Celtic race had s-ch an opportunity as it now had as constituents of the British Empire. Indeed, never before had the citizens of any country the grand franchise enjoyed by our democracy of the present day; and he believed that that grand position had been to an enormous extent attained by the working of the leaven of Celtic genius, Celtic satheticism, Celtic love of first principles, and last, but not least, Celtic altruism, upon the more practical, more in- dn strious. more selfish, and more material mass of the Anglo-Saxons. (Applause.)

Lord George Hamilton received at the India Office, on Wednesday, a large deputation from the Lanca- shire cotton trade and the cotton printers and dyers of the W est of Scotland, who urged the early abolition of the Indian cotton import duties, and that meantime they should be deprived of tneir protective character, from which the British cotton industry was suffering. Lord George Hamilton, in reply. accepted the promise of his predecessor as to the avoidance of the protective element, and said be would do his best to accelerate the reply of the Indian Government to the memorial forwarded in Julv from the Lancashire cotton trade. He hoped the result wnnld con?duce to their prosperity. 1.'hre. HI nothmg more refreshing u..? Cup ui Phillin- gTW -Tt'ea' Tea taken in excess m?y, Hke other thmgs. '.????.? 1' bQt in moderation it is not cjnlv 1eSS,bUtp0Sitive,J'?^ for ??, acting r^lTJti-muilant and tonic to the nervous system. ?on?'? -'?? ?'?? buy it from W. Phillips 4 Co" ?rt?d., ? Wrex b am. Ltd., Teamen, 

FATAL ACCIDENT AT PLASPOWER COLLIERY. On luedsay afternoon Mr Wynn Evans, coroner for East Denbighshire held an inquest on the body of Enoch Rogers, collier, who was killed at the Pias- power Colliery on Saturday last, from a fall of roof. Mr Thomas Roberts was the foreman of the jury. Mr Matthews, assistant inspector was present.— Robert Rogers said that he lived at Salem House, Coedpoeth. The deceased was his son. He was a collier working at the Plaspower Colliery, and was thirty-one years of age. He identified the body as that of Enoch Rogers.—Thomas H. Simon said that he lived at Pentre Broughton, and was a collier, Witness was working at the colliery on Saturday last at the time the accident took place. It was about twelve noon. He was standing about eight or nine feet from the deceased. Witness was holding a I light for him to work out a prop. They had finished I work lor that day, excepting that it was their custom at the week end to so prepare that everything might settle down, and that they might get any loose material which might fall to make up the pack. The deceased was beating at the the prop with his puncher. He struck at it three or four times, and suddenly the roof gave way without any warning. The deceased was covered except a little of his back. Witness made an attempt to remove the dirt which was on the deceased, but failed, and called for assist- ance. Assistance came and they got deceased out in ten or fifteen minutes. When he was got out, witness did not think he was alive. Witness thought that he heard him groan after the fall By Mr Mathews: The fireman's name was William Smith. He did not hear the fireman give instructions for a prop to be set. Ii he gave instructions he would give them in the morning to the deceased. Edwin Williams, assistant fireman, came by while they were at work that morning. He believed that he spoke to the deceased, but he did not know what he said. What fell on the deceased was a large lump of coal, about half a yard in thick- ness. The deceased was an experienced man he believed. If the prop had been set up there deceased would have had a better chance to get away. There is a chain which could be used to draw out the props. He had been working about five months at tne colliery, but the deceased had been there about ten years.-Willian Smith said that he was fireman at the colliery. He was day fireman, and he saw the spot where the accident happened at 5.10 a.m. on the same day. He spoke to the deceased about it at six o'clock. He told the deceased that he had marked two props for him to set before he capped it, and that he was to be sure to set them. The deceased replied, "All right." Edwin Williams, shot lighter, heard this conversation. He marked the place where the props were to be set with chalk on the roof. The deceased had had several years' experience.—Edwin Williams said that he was assistant fireman at the colliery. He saw the spot at about 10.30 on Saturday morning. He told the deceased that he was in- structed to set two props by the fireman. He had marked the spot. Witness saw the marks. The deceased replied that he would do so.—The jury returned a verdict of accidental death.

THE EDUCATION QUESTION. Sir W. Harcourt has written a letter on the ques- tion of voluntary education, in reply to a resolution submitted to him by the Civil Rights Joint Com- mittee of the Congregationalists and Baptists of Yorkshire. In his letter Sir William expresses his satisfaction that action is being taken to resist the threatened attack on the educational system of the country. Various members of the Government have, he says, loudly disclaimed any intention to disturb the settlement of 1870, and they must watch carefully how far this declaration was adhered to. The thing to be most regretted was the spirit in which the advocates of voluntary schools approached the ques- tion. That they should seek to advance their cause not by improving the education of voluntary schools, but by depressing the standard in Board schools, was a painful exhibition of that narrow jealousy which was prepared to sacrifice the cause of education to sectarian interests. It was true that the cost of education had grown beyond the expectation in 1870. It would be strange and deplorable indeed if in a quarter of a century the educational standard had not been raised and the conception of what was re- quired had not been enlarged. But even now the standard of our education was far below that of the United States and many Continental nations. This attempt to pnt back the clock was one of the worst symptoms of the present reaction, but it was a little too barefaced to a icceed. The Birmingham Post of Tuesday contained a weighty and evidently authoritative statement upon the attitude of what may be called the Birmingham school of educationalists. After criticising the pre- tensions of the Clerical and Roman party, the Post goes on to discuss the attitude of the Prime Minister and the Duke of Devonshire. That there are two currents of influence at work in the Government is obvious." Lord Salisbury has indicated his desire to go a long way in the denominational direction. The Duke of Devonshire appears, however, to be indis- posed to do more than afford a moderate measure of relief to Voluntary schools, whilst he offers no encouragement to those who would check the develop- ment of Board Schools. The article continues :—"Mr Chamberlain, the third most important factor in the decision, has already made his course perfectly clear. He still holds, in principle, the views he held when he was the animating spirit of the National Education League, but, guided by the experience of later years, and looking to the cost of such a change, and to the general set of public opinion, he is not now prepared forcibly to substitute a general School Board system for the existing dual arrangement -and therefore, it may be assumed, he would agree with the Duke of Devonshire in making some additional State grants, though only, it may be also assumed, to a limited and carefully guarded extent. And this, we believe, will be the ultimate decision of the Government as a whole—the denominational schools are to be so helped as to prevent them from being destroyed or seriously impaired but at the same time nothing will be done to hinder the natural development of the repre- sentative system wherever additional schools are re- quired." A

AN AMUSING LETTER. The secretary of the Ala-road Literary Society. Pwllheli, having written to Mr Allen Upward asking for a copy of one of his novels, Mr Upward replied as follows D.1.r Sir,—I am in receipt of a letter in which you ask ne to send you a copy of one of my books (which a name) for the library of Ala-road Literary Socie Pwllheli. I have heard of Pwllheli, but I have ne\ r heard of the Ala-road Literary Society. Before complying with your request, there- fore, I should be glad of a little more information. I should like to know how many members (if any), beside yourself, there are in the society, and whether it is run on denominational lines. Its name sounds as if it were held in a chapel, and I want to know which chapel. It is well known that I am a Baptist, and therefore I could not possibly send my works to a Congregational society, far less to a Wesleyan one. You state that you have to fall back on the sympathy and kindness of others, owing to lack of funds. But lack of funds is not peculiar to the Ala-road Literary Society. Authors, even, have been known to experience it. This fact, in itself, therefore, does uot convince me that I ought to send you my book. You inform me that several other authors, whose names you mention, have sent you copies of their works. But the list you give is not entirely satisfactory. Authors like Lord Rosebery and Lord Roberts are not fair samples of their class. These litterateurs appear to be noblemen, and probably have other sources of income than the sale of their writings. Neither do such names as Sir Lewis Morris and Mr Le Gallienne carry real weight. They are poets, and everyone knows that poetry is a drug on the market. Had you asked me for a copy of my poetical works, I would have sent it with pleasure, and accom- panied it by my portrait and autograph. It is true that you add a request for my other books, but in such language as makes it painfully clear that you hare never heard of the others. This has naturally offended me. You should be more careful when writing to authors, proverbially a sensitive and quick- tempered race. Had you been prudent enough to refrain from particularising and simply offered to take all my -.vork-s, I should have sent a miscellaneous collection that would have astonished you. As it is, you have asked for my worst book-a book quite unworthy of the attention of a literary society, and which it would be insulting Mr A. J. Bal'four and Mr A. W. Pinero to place on your shelves alongside of the works they have forwarded to you. The fact is that you have fallen into a common error. You think that authors like giving away their books, that they regard it as a compliment to be asked for them. Some authors may, but they are not always the authors whose books are best worth having. It would distress me to think that my writings would never penetrate to Ala-road, Pwllheli. I can only mention, with modest defference, that Messrs W. H. Smith and Son are kind enough to supply the public with the work you have expressed a wish for at the price of 3s 6d in cloth covers, or 2s in boards (with picture). Surelv 2s is a sum which may one day be within the reach of your literary society! The firm I allude to probably have a stall at the Pwllheli Rail- way Station-if there is a railway at Pwllheli. But to say any more might seem like asking you to buy my work. Accept my sincere admiration for your zeal and enterprise in the pursuit of literature, and believe me, obediently yours, ALLEN UPWARD. «-

TUE REGISTRAR-GENERAL'S RETURNS—The death rate of the United Kingdom always goes up during the winter. The fogs, cold, and rain that are now in season-even the brisk frosts that are so agree- able to robust neople-tell with fatal effect on the health of those of feebler constitution and lower vitality. The way to be safe in an English winter is to fortify the system against attacks, and to meet promptly any little ailments which may set in. Even should bronchitis or other seasonable ills make their appearance, prompt measures may relieve them, as in the case of a gentleman whose letter we reprint. It runs as follows I beg to state that last January, during the heavy frost and severe old weather, I got an attack of bronchitis, followed by general weakness and lassitude. I felt no inclina- tion for any meals, and as my age is sixty I really felt that I was approaching the end. 1 tnea a. DOX of Dr. Williams' Pink Pills for Pale People, and most decidedly at the end of a week I found an im- provement in my health, and, in a fortnight, my appetite returned. I returned to my business in a month, and to-day am as strong as ever I was.-J. Conway, Orchard-street, Londonderry." To people of ordinary health Dr. Williams' Pink Pills for Pale People are the best possible tonic, and they cure paralysis, locomotor ataxy, influenza, rheumatism, sciatica, neuralgia, nervons headache, scrofula, chronic erysipelas, and sallow complexion. Sold by chemists also by Dr. Williams' Medicine Company, 46 Holborn Viaduct, London, at 2s 9d a box six boxes 13s 9d., post free. A specific for the female sex, and in men they cure all c,—.ion worry, over- work, or excesses. I EDISBURY'S ASTHMA CURE. By sheer force of merit it has created a won del :d demand. Try it. Free F. EDISBURY, 3, High-street, Wrexham. 224U

MR. BIRCHAM ON THE BOARDING-OUT SYSTEM. At Friday's fortnightly meeting of the Bangor and Beaumaris Guardians, Mr Hugh Thomas presiding, the system of boarding-out orphan children again came up for discussion.—Mr Bircham, Local Govern- ment Board inspector, said he understood from the newspaper reports that the Guardians wished to extend that system in a somewhat wholesale manner; but he wished to point out to them that they had no power to board out children unless they were orphans or deserted, or unless they were neglected by their parents either through cruelty or inability to main- tain them, and the Guardians took proceedings before a magistrate to obtain entire control of those children. With regard to the control of illegitimate children, it might be to the benefit of such children to be placed in homes, but the Guardians must bear in mind that the money paid by them for the support oi such children was money compulsonly levied out of the pockets of the whole community, and it was not as if they were managing a charitable fund. They had to take the money of hard-working people, many of whom had hard work to keep their own families, and could get no assistance from the Guar- dians. Not only that, but they had to pay rates as well towards the maintenance of the children of women for whom they had not the slightest sympathy or regard so the. Guardians must look at the matter from that point of view also. They must also bear in mind that unless these women were inmates of the house they could always withdraw their children unless the Guardians obtained an order from the magistrates for their retention. Proceeding, Mr Bircham referred to the question of a better classifica- tion of children in workhouses. He had seen at St. Asaph and Holyhead quite pattern workhouse com- munities in that respect though they boarded out also. The secret of these little communities was that the unions appointed a competent person to look after the children, who took a hearty interest in the work. And under such circumstances it was not at all im- possi ble to make the life of children in workhouses much better than it is the fashion to talk about. There was a great deal said about the workhouse taint, but he heard very little said about the taint of the gutter, and of miserable homes outside the work- house with all their evil influences, and he could assure the Guardians that the unions he had spoken of had very bright little homes for the few children they maintained so he should not altogether run away with the idea that a workhouse was an im- possible place for children to live in.

BANGOR. MESSES J. H. BILLINGTON AND Co. On Friday evening, Messrs J. H. Billington and Co., of Chester, gave a dinner at the Royal Oak Hotel, Bangor, to celebrate the opening of their coal wharves on the Wrexham and Ellesmere Railway. Over a hundred of the principal farmers and tradesmen of the district sat down to an excellent dinner, which was provided by Mr and Mrs Parry.-The Chairman (Mr Lewis, the Bank, Malpas), gave the loyal toasts, and after- wards the clergy and ministers of all denominations. —The liar. J. L1. James, Bangor, responded.-The Chairman next proposed The Army, Navy, ani Auxiliarv Forces," and Mr Harry Barrett, of Over- ton, responded.—Mr J. H. Billington proposed The Cambrian Railway Company." He was sure the in- habitants of the district were greatly indebted to the Company for opening the Wrexham and Ellesmere Railway. The officials he had always found very obliging.—Mr Gregory, of Bangor, supported Mr Billington in his remarks.—The Chairman proposed The town and trade of Bangor." He hoped the position of Bangor would improve. At one time it was one of the mos; important villages in the district. —Mr Ambrose Sutton responded, and afterwards proposed Messrs J. H. Billington and Co." On behalf of those present he thanked the firms for their generosity in inviting them there that night. The people of Bangor had not forgotten the kindness of Messrs Billington last winter, when they sent a truck or two of coal for the poor of Ba.ngor. (Applause.) And he was sure their kindness in any future occa- sion would not be found wanting. (Hear, hear.) He wished the firm every success. (Applause.)-The toaso was received with musical honours.—The Chairman, in responding, said it was all very well to be a coal merchant, but if the trade was not on an extensive scale, little good would be done. To com- mence in the coal business, a large capital was required, and the firm of Messrs Billington were in a position to buy in the best markets. He did not much care for the idea of opening new depots in the Wrexham and Ellesmere line, as he was of opinion that it was too close of the Welsh colliery districts to do much good, but Mr Billington, the manager director thought otherwise. He was of opinion that the good qualities of the Staffordshire coal required only to be known to secure a ready sale.—Mr J. H. Billington also responded. He said that he and his brother directors gave all a hearty welcome. No doubt some of them wondered why the firm had opened a depot at Bangor. They had had depots on the London and North Western for a considerable time, and one at Malpas for twelve years, and by coming to Bangor they hoped to retain their trade, and if possible to increase it. Already a very fair share had fallen to their lot, as well as to other representatives of the trade, some of whom he was, very pleased to see present. xneir average annual sale ior some time had been 30,COO tons. Last year it reached 40,000, and this year he hoped it would reach 50,000 tons. There profit was only a farthing a hundredweight. but they bought such large quantities, that con- sidering the small profit they were able to pay their shareholders a dividend of seven per cent. Their company was worked on the co-operative system, many of their customers being shareholders. This made them take more interest in the firm; and had had the effect of just doubling their trade. (Applaus.) Mr Jackson, the secretary, also responded. He said that since he had been connected with Messrs Billington and Co., he had had to do with the opening of fourteen new depots, but :none had been opened so auspiciously as those on the Wrexham and Ellesmere Railway. He came down last Tuesday with the intention of clearing the accounts at Marchwiel, Bangor, and Overton in one day, but instead of that it took him three days. (Applause.) He had the pleasure, too, of taking a fair balance back with him, which was a new experience in the opening of new depots. They met there that evening to celebrate their coming to Bangor, but he was quite sure they would never meet to celebrate their going away. (Laughter.)—Mr J. A. Mossford, Overton, proposed Success to Agri- culture," and Mr Richard Fearnall, of Alford, and Mr Mort, of Bangor, responded.—The following toasts were also given :— Bangor Parish Council," The Chairman," and The Host and Hostess. The proceedings were made more enjoyable with songs given by Messrs. F. Harris. James Davies, David Davies, and McBurnie, of Wrexham; R. Lloyd, Marchwiel T. Blake, of Bangor Walter Hughes, of Eyton H. Barsett, of Overton Ford, of Knolton.

OVERTON. I I LOCALNOTES. 1 Mr lighe, of Asbgrove, came of age on Saturday. Great indignation is expressed with regard to the way in which the drainage was done some months ago. A public meeting will shortly be held in order that the whole business may be considered. A rummage sale in aid of Foreign Missions was held on Monday. t Mr Hughes, a well-known Overton cattle dealer, was thrown from a trap on Saturday, but happily his injuries were slight. I Many Overton people are sorry that Mr Howe, the Duddleston school-master, is leaving the district, as his songs were much appreciated at the various concerts. There is a keen competition in the coal-trade, up- wards of six firms being represented in the district. An old and respected inhabitant of Worthenbury passed away on Saturday, in the person of Mr Wm. Hate. For some time he was the postmaster, and also acted as agent to the late Sir Richard Puleston.

METEOROLOGICAL TABLE. FOR WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 11th, 1895. FROM THE BROUGHTON AND PLAS POWER COAL 1 COMPANY, LIMITED. BAROMETER READINGS, Taken at 9 a.m., from an Aneroid by Negretti and Zambra. THERMOMETER (IN DEGREES.) I Mnumnm 45 ? 34 I 28 M j 26 30 26 Maximum 51  43 1 38 44 48 44 43 Wet Bulb 50 38 ? I H 43 43 33 Dry Bulb 51 39 34 36 1 444 3 1 444 3 1 4333 All maximum temperatures. are shade temperatures Raiiif all in I 30 1 .1r. 1 1 inches in } .30 I .16 I .42 I .06 I .04 I 1.17 Total rainfall for week 1.15 inches.

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR GIFTs.-All who wish to present a friend with a really acceptable gift can. not do ioetter than select a bottle of choice Perfume. It brings the summer back to them. L. ROWLAND and Co. have a large and varied stock of the finest Perfumes, sprays, sachets. cut-glass smelling and ootMe-• 'ni iih-class toilet soaps, &c., &-c.-High- su-ec-t. Wi-.m, and Ruabon. Oldest established :1 Wrexham. 794c

CYCLING. _n_ The Chester District Council, who have taken the initiative in advocating the imposition of a bicycle tax, have received a number of favourable replies from similar authorities. At the meeting on Satur- day, the Chairman said they had lost nothing by the delay. Within the last fortnight the Chancellor of the Exchequer had made a statement which certainly encouraged them to continue their agitation. It was decided to approach the County Council at an early date with the recommendation that the proceeds of the tax be devoted to the relief of local county taxation.

CRICKET. ( The Hampshire County Cricket Club have expended S-2 032 during the present year, as compared with £1,260 in 1894. Still, the balance is on the right side, the subscriptions being E904, as against E541 the previous year, and the gate money S-843, as against .E307. The prospects of Hampshire cricket are con- sidered most encouraging. Albert Ward, the well-known Lancashire cricketer, has left Leyland in order to commence business as an athletic outfitter in Bolton. Ward is very popular, and we have no doubt he will succeed in his new venture. It is very probable he will assist the Bolton club when not engaged in county matches. We might add that during the eight years he played for Leyland he averaged over forty runs per inningg. Not a bad man to have in club cricket. ENGLAND v. AUSTRALIA.—The dates for the matches to be played during the visit of the Australians next season against representative English teams have now been decided upon. They are eailier in the season than usual, and instead of the Manchester match taking place last, as has recently been the rule, it will be sandwiched between those at Lords' and the Oval. The dates are :—June 25, &c., at Lords'; July 16, tire., at Manchester; and August 10, &c., at the Oval. DEPARTURE OF CRICKETERS FOR SOUTH AFRICA.—On Saturday morning Lord Hawke, Sir T. C. O'Brien, and Mr H. T. Hewett left Waterloo by the Union special for Southampton, there embarking on the Moor for Cape Town, where they are expected to arrive in time for the first fixture on Boxing Day. MR. A. G. STEEL ON CRICKET. On Thursday week, Mr A. G. Steel, perhaps one of the finest amateur cricketers of his day, and who was for years a member of the Lancashire County Eleven, delivered an address on Cricket to the members of the Liverpool University College Athletic Club. The lecture-theatre was filled with students and friends, who gave a most enthusiastic reception to the famous cricketer. Mr Steel commenced by saying that in these days when so many men wrecked themselves on the rock effeminate aastheticism—(applause)—it was doubly important for all honest and healthy-minded Englishmen to stand up and do what they could for our great English games. (Applause.) Tracing the early history of cricket he said that stool ball and cat and dog were probably the ancestors of the game. It was not until the beginning of the eighteenth century that cricket really began to be a national game. He referred in an interesting manner to the changes which had taken place in the laws of the game, and said that what had fostered the game within com- paratively recent times was the patrolling round the country of an All England eleven. There was a dark chapter in the history of cricket, and that was that in the early part it was saturated with betting. Betting was a vicious taint in connection with any sport. They had it unfortunately to a certain extent in football they certainly had it in boat racing and professional athletics, but they were happy to think that in the present day at any rate they were free from it in cricket. (Applause.) An important incident in the history of the game was in 1878, when the Australians made their first invasion of England. We then learned much from them in bowling. Spofforth was the finest bowler he had ever played against. (Applause.) His style was entirely different to anything we had seen, and the way in which he changed his pace from lightning-like balls to slows- and very cunning slows they were—was a revelation to us. The fastest bowler he ever saw was Crossland, but then he was an undoubted thrower. (Laughter.) Lancashire cricket eight or ten years ago was under a ban, inasmuch as the county played three bowlers who had doubtful deliveries, but he was happy to say that now Lancashire was entirely free from that. He heard a short t:me ago that that really fine fast bowler, Mold, had a doubtful delivery, but having watched him from different parts of the ground he unhesitatingly stated that he believed he was as fair a bowler as one could wish to have in any team. (Applause.) In conclusion he said that aspiring batsmen should watch good batsmen at the wickets, and remember that the great points were to keep the right foot absolutely rigid, and to play with a straight bat with the left elbow well forward. (Applause.) He might even repeat the advice given him when a boy at Marlborough School, Say your prayers every morning, and keep your left elbow forward. A vote of thanks was passed to Mr Steel, on the motion of Professor Strong, seconded by Mr Roscoe. The chair was occupied by Mr W. U. Thornton, president of the College Athletic Club.

BANGOR UNIVERSITY COLLEGE V. CARNARVON IRox- OPOLIS.-At Carnarvon. The home team won by two goals to one. OSWESTRY RECREATION SOCIETY V. LLANGOLLEN.— Played at Llangollen on Thursday week, and ended in a win for the home team by two goals to one. ELLESMERE UNITED V. OSWESTRY BLACK WATCH.— Played at Ellesmere on Saturday, in a perfect gale and fall of snow. Oswestry won by five goals to three. TOWYN COUNTY SCHOOL V. PORTMADOC COUNTY SCHOOL.-A match between these teams was played at Portmadoc. Towyn played only six of their first e!even, and ten in all, but won easily by six goals to none. LONDON WELSH V. WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS.— Cold and showery weather accompanied the visit to Tufnell Park of the League team, but there was a good attendance. Miller, Henderson, Tonks, Griffith, and Wood scored for the Wanderers, who gave a very pretty exhibition of the passing game, and Pryce White scored for the London Welsh. Pinal :-Wolver- hampton Wanderers, five goals London Welsh. one goal. CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY v. NORFOLK COUNTY.—At Norwich. Fifteen minutes from the start Lowe scored for the Cantabs, and the same player added another before the interval. Changing ends, Alexander notched a third point. The County after- wards played up better, and Lawrence did good work. Hunt beat him just before the finish, and the game ended :—Cambridge, three goals Norfolk, one goal. OXFORD UNIVERSITY V. OLD WESTMINSTERS.—At Oxford. Westminsters played one short for the first half-hour, during which Conipton scored two goals for Oxford. Sandilands then sent the ball through for the Westminsters, followed by Barwell. After half- time, Sandilands added two more goals, and Vassall scored for Oxford. FinalOld Westminsters, four goals; Oxford, three. WREXHAM ST. OSWALD'S V. OSWESTRY ST. THOMAS'S. -Played at Wrexham on Saturday, and ended in a win for St. Oswald's by five goals to three. The fol- lowing team represented St. Oswald's :-Goal, T. Dawson; backs, W.Billington and A. E. Billington (captain) half-backs, H. Jones, F. Platt, and E. Jones; right wing, W. Powell and W. Cooper left wing, D. Parry and F. Williams centre, J. Mit- chell referee, Mr W. Williams. SHREWSBURY V. WEST BROMWHH ALBIOV RESERVE. —At Shrewsbury, in the Birmingham League. In about six minutes from the start Heath scored for Shrewsbury, and a few minutes later Hutchinson equalised. The play then became fast, and Benbow put the Salopians ahead by notching another goal. At the interval the score was two goals to one in favour of Salop. On resuming, the Albion forwards became dangerous, but Shrewsbury retaliated, and Tracey scored. Fiual i-Shrewsbury, five goals; West Brom- wich Albion, two. CHIRK V. IRONBRIDGE.—At Ironbridge, before a miserable gate. The Welshmen brought a full team, but the home team played several reserves. Iron- bridge pressed from the start, and scored in ten minutes, and before the interval Edwards added another. Chirk were overplayed in the second half, but the game was not played out owing to a round of fisticuffs between two opposing players. The result up to the fracas was :-Ironbridge, two goals Chirk, nil. CORINTHIANS V. SUNDERLAND.—At Queen's Club, West Kensington, in dull, cold weather, before 2,000 spectators. The Corinthians were strongly repre- sented, and with the wind in their favour had much the better of the first half. G. O. Smith scored at the end of ten minutes, and Guy in half-an-hour, the amateurs crossing over leading by two goals to nil. On changing ends, Sunderland pressed severely, and after narrowly escaping scoring, Campbell put the ball through in splendid style. Afterwards the game was very even and exciting, each goal being threatened in turn, and each goalkeeper having to save. G. O. Smith, however, scored a third point for the Corinthians, who won. -Final-Coriiithians, three goals; Sunderland, one goal.

THE WELSH CUP. THIRD ROUXD. I BAXGOR V. WESTMINSTER ROVERS.—At Bangor, on Saturday. Bangor had rather the best of the exchanges, the Rovers conceding several corners to save, but half-time arrived without any scoring. On resuming Bangor scored in eight minutes. The play then became rather fast, the Rovers equalising after half an hour. Result-A drawn game, one goal each. ABERDARE v. HEREFoRD.-At Aberdare, on Satur- day. Hereford, playing with a strong wind, scored thrice in the first half. Half-time score—Hereford three goals, Aberdare none. After the change of ends the home side played up with vigour, and Newton, A. Jones, and D. Rees between them gained a point for Aberdare. Continuing to bombard the visitors' goal, Newton scored for his side, and Hereford by fine passing put up another point. Result-Hereford, four goals; Aberdare, two. OSWESTRY UXITED Y. ABERYSTWYTH.—A great deal of interest was taken in the meeting of these teams on Saturday, and excitement ran high at Oswestry, w h ere the contest took pi. where the contest took place. The Welshmen had somewhat easily beaten the border team at Aber- ystwyth a few weeks ago, and their supporters, who arrived in large numbers, were fully confident that the eleven representing them would make a gallant fighc for victory. The visitors journeyed as far a3 Welshppol the previous night, where they put up. The home team were represented by the advertised team, with the exception of Faulks, whose place was filled by Dan Roberts. Previously to the match a band, under the conductorship of Mr Alfred Bayley, promenaded the streets, and on their wav to the ground attracted a large number of followers. Bitterly cold weather prevailed, and a thin layer of snow covered the ground, which made it very heavy going. Oswestry winning the name of the coin chose to play with the wind at their backs. After a couple of fouls had been awarded each team, the Salopians took up the running. and F. Benbow get- ting away at a rattling pace sent the ball to Parry, who, in return, centred beautifully, and Benbow being well up netted the ball brilliantly, Roose not having the least chance. Hardly had the cheers died away when Morris Jones obtained possession, and easily overcoming his half-back, scored the second goal for Oswestry. Encouraged by this suc- cess, the home forwards played grandly together. The visitors now transferred the scene of operations, and by neat and clever combination seriously threatened the home citadel. Rea and A. Owen were next prominent, and sailed along rapidly until hampered by Dan Roberts, who sent the ball along the home goal mouth, when it was put through, but the point was disallowed, owing to an infringement of the rules. A little later the visitors, after some smart exchanges between Rea, Morris, and Garner, were awarded a well-deserved goal. After Grainger had repulsed an attack by Morris and Garner, Parry and Flimmer secured, and from a good centre by Parry Benbow again netted the ball. After a little even play an exciting scrimmage took place in the home goal, and a good cheer went up when the ball was steered towards the centre of the ground. Nothing noteworthy happened up to the interval, when the game stood at three goals to one in favour of the United. Resuming, the home forwards took up the running, and the venue of operations was for a time confined to the visitors' goal. As time wore on it was evident the visitors were good stayers, and having the assistance of the wind played a good game, some of their attacks being noticeable for correct and neat passing. The visitors, working the ball well together, placed a second goal to their credit, xne centre xicic was toiiowea oy some ex- citing exchanges, both sides claiming an equal share. At this stage the game was delayed for a few minutes owing to a slight injury to M. Jones. For a time the home team seemed to lag in their eff- and the visitors making the most of their chance-, were constantly in the home goal, and eventually made the game even. Just when the spectators were looking forward to a drawn game, the popular Rea made a brilliant run, and eluding Dan Robe. U and Lews, sent the ball well into goal, v;n-. :v w was netted, and the game made four to t t%q,iA: favour, three minutes off time. Nothing further re- sulting, Aberystwyth left the ground wirners of a capitally fougbt battle and one which they fully deserved for the uphill way in which they played, by four goals to three. The following composed the teams :-Oswestry Goal, Davies backs, Grainger and Lewis half-backs, Dan Roberts, H. Sabine, and M. Parry right wing, R. Parry and C. Plimmer left wing, M. Jones and Watkins centre, Fred Benbow. Aberystwyth Goal, Roose backs, Yv. R. Jones and W. Davies; half-backs, H. Smith, D. Morgan, and Miles right wing, W. Michal and Garner left wing, Rea and A. Owen centre, Morris. Linesmen, Messrs. A. England, Oswestry, and Edwards, Aberystwyth. Referee, Mr Cotton, Rhos- tyllen. DRUIDS v. WELLINGTON ST. GEORGE'S 1 These teams met in the Welsh Cup- on Wynnstay Park, on Saturday. Both clubs were fully represented, and although the weather proved most unfavourable, a high wind prevailing, which occasionally developed into a. hurricane of snow and sleet, there was a large gate. The home team won the toss, and elected to play with the wind in their favour, and at oace pressed. George Owen sent well in, but Evans, the visitors' custodian, saved splendidly. Taylor and Jones effected a run on the visitors' left wing, but C. Thomas sent them back, and George Owen sent a long shot which knocked the cross-bar. The visitors' again broke away, bat their turn of attacking was very brief, and the Welshmen again kept up a furious onslaught on the Dragons' goal. T. Davies sent in a swift shot, which Morris saved at the expense of a corner. The leather was now kept hovering round the visitors' goal, but thev were particularly keen in their defence, and from a break away by their forwards Taylor easily beat Postle, and sent a long shot which Thomas failed to reach. This roused the Welshmen, and a furious attack on the visitors' goal was kept up, shot after shot being sent in, but luck was all against them. After a couple of fruitless corners, T. Davies banged in, but Morris averted danger. William Butler finally sent in a low shot, which Evans tried to kick out, but failed. Thus the score was equalised amidst great outbursts of cheering. The home team were still pressing when half-time was called, with the score one goal each. On re-starting against the wind the home team played with extraordinary dash, whilst the combination of the forwards was better than during the initial half, and they soon made their presence felt. Vanghan and Butler effected a run on the home right. The former centred, but T. Davies missed the mark by inches only. Pinkstone and Rigby were dangerous, but Evans was much too good for them, but their efforts was nipped. G. Roberts and T. Davies on the home left were very tricky, and Buder in the centre, his brother, and Vaughan were in grim earnest. Vaughan simply romped round Turley, but Morris came to his partner's assistance at critical periods, and saved wonderfully. Tne visitors had a turn of pressing. The home backs when pressed were rather weak, although C. Thomas saved well on many occasions. Jones, the visitors' centre, sent in, and Rigby banged the leather into Thomas's hands. The visitors' for- wards, however, made no mistake, and Jones screwed the ball into the net when Thomas was out of his position, thus putting the visitors in the lead. The home players played like Trojans, and in a blinding snowstorm they were seon to great advantage, and a continuous attack on the visitors goal was kept up, Evans, the visitors goalkeeper, saving time after time in meritorious stvle. The home forwards were not to be deuied, and finally Vaughan put the leather through a ruck of opponents, a feat which was welcomed with deafening cheers. Each side strove hard to get ahead, but failed, and when the whistle blew the score stood-Druids, two goals St. George's, two. Teams :-Druids E. Thomas, goal C. Thomas and G. Postle, backs D. Evans, W. Evans, and George Owen, half-backs J. Vaughan, William Bath, Windsor Butler, T. Davies, and George Roberts, forwards. Wellington St. George Evans, goal; Morris and Turley, backs; E. Jones, Roden, and Pickering, half-back3 Pickstom, Rigby, T. Jones, E. Jones, and Taylor, forwards. Referee, Mr F. T. Evans, Wrexham.

THE WELSH LEAGUE. I Goals. P. W. L. D. For Agst. Pts. Chirk 8 2 2 4 14 16 8 Wrexham 4 3 0 1 15 5 7 Rhos 4. 2. 0.. 1 8. 3"' 7 Brymbo 6 3 2 1 13 10. 7 Druids .oo. 6. 2. 3. I 17 11. 5 Westminster Rovers 7 1 4. 2 14 21 4 Rhostyllen Victoria.. 3 0 3 0 3. 18. 0

WREXHAM Y. BIU-MBO— On Saturday afternoon these teams met at Brymbo in this competition. The weather was wintry in the extreme, snow covering the ground to the depth of several inches. The air was very keen, and consequently the attendance was only a moderate one. The game was commenced in a blinding hail storm. Hughes started for Wrexham uphill, and they were the first to attack, but the ball passed out. The home forwards dashed down the field, and W. Llovd scored the first goal for Brymbo, a minute or so after the commencement. Wrexham pressed, and Robinson struck the cross-bar with a good shot. Pugh did some nice work on the visitors' right, but the home custodian stopped his final shot. The Wrexham half-backs were noticeable for some good defensive work. The home goal next had a narrow escape. Wrexham secured a corner, but it was easily cleared. The visitors were getting away, but Samuels pulled them up cleverly. Ellis did the same shortly afterwards. A foul was given against Elias Jones, and this enabled the visitors to equalise the score, Hughes heading through from the free kick. Shortly afterwards the same plaver put Wrexham ahead. The game continued fairly even up to the interval, when the score stood- Wrexham, two goals Brymbo, one. When the second half was commenced thehailstones had stopped. Wrexham were very dangerous, hut off-side prevented a score. The home players made tracks up -he incline, but Samuels checked them. Ha.rrison raced grandly away, and after being near the home goal for a short time Hughes gave to Trevor Owen. That player was a considerable distance from goal, but he took deliberate aim, and the ball just passed inside thn upright. The game had not been in operat on a minute before Wrexham dashed down agi-.n upon the home goal, and Hughes was credited with getting a fourth goal, through Gough only pai tiaily clearing a shot. The home players got within measureable distance of their opponents' goal, but "hands" sent them away. Pugh was taking a shot, when the whistle sounded for off-side. Pugh was knocked over, and his head kicked, but he con- tinned playing. Ellis and Stokes stopped the home players nicely, and so did Samuels directly after- wards. Harrison put in some fine runs on the left wing. A sharp hailstorm now broke over the field of play, and made it very unpleasant for the players. Brymbo gained a corner, and this was followed by "hands close to the visitors' goal, but Ellis headed away. Trevor Owen. with some nice work, enabled Pugh to dash away, but Mathias, who had gone in boal, ran out and cleared. Wrexham still kept at it, and Pugh beat the Brymbo custodian for the fifth time. The Brymbo men appealed for off-side, but unsuccessfully. W. Lloyd left the field in disgust, but returned. Play became exciting, but directly afterwards the referee blew his whistle, and announced that he could not see to follow the game. This was twelve minutes before time." The score then stood--AVrexhaiii, five goals Brymbo, one goal. The following were the teams :—Brymbo Goal, J. Gongh backs, W. W. Jones and J. S. Mathias half- backs, Elias Jones, W. T. Jones, -and J. Williams; right wing, H. Grainger and W. Lloyd left wing, J. Phoenix and R. Tattnm centre, Hewitt. Wrexham Goal, Ball; backs, E. Samuels and A. E. Ellis; half- backs, J. Rogers, E. Robinson, and F. Stokes right wing, Trevor Owen and D. H. Pugh left wing, A. Williams and W. Harrison centre. J. Hughes. Referee, Mr Evan Price, of Johnstown. C,

WEEXHAM AND DISTRICT SCHOOL FOOTBALL LEAGUE. On Friday a meeting of teachers was held at the Boys' National School for the purpose of forming a Football League for the elementary schools of Wrex- ham and neighbourhood. Representatives were pre- sent from Trevor, Gwersyllt, Rhosddu, Brymbo, Bersham, Rossett, Wrexham British aud National Schools. Mr Job Mason presided, and after dis- cussion it was agreed to for a League, the following schools joining :-Brymbo National, Gwersyllt. Rossett, Rhosddu, Wrexham British, and Wrexham National. The rules of the English Association will be strictly adhered to. These School Leagues have been very successful in London, Birmingham, Sheffield, Luton, Southport, and many other places, where handsome and valuable trophies, consisting of a shield or cup, have been presented for competition between the schools of the League. The committee would be glad if some generous friend of the boys of Wrexham wosld offer a similar trophy to. be held by the winners of the League contests. The matches as a rule will be played on Saturday mornings. The committee hope to arrange a match or matches during the season for the benefit of the teachers' two orphan funds. Mr T. Morgan Owen, Her Majesty's Inspector, was unanimously elected president of the League, and that gentleman has accepted the post with the greatest pleasure. Mr Job Mason is the honorary secretary. WREXHAM BRITISH SCHOOL V. WREXHAM. NATIONAI, SCIIOOL.-This match was played on the ground of the latter on Saturday morning in very boisterous weather. A large number of teachers and scholars from both schools, and also the masters of several neighbouring schools, were present. The British boys won the choice of ends, and elected to play with a very strong wind at their backs. Rogers, the centre forward of the National, kicked off, and by some very neat short passing, brought the ball in front of their opponents' goal, but Hughes,, the British captain, cleared with a long kick. The British, aided by the wind, were very persistent in their attacks, during which Blacktin, Caradoc Evans, and A. Evans were very conspicuous but the two little backs of the defenders were very smart in clearing their goal. At last Blacktin with a good long shot scored for the visitors, the goalkeeper evidently being taken by surprise, as he made no attempt to save his charge. Half-time now arrived, the score standing at one to none in favour of the British boys. After the usual refresher in the shape of oranges, the two teams faced each other again, the wind having subsided a little. The National boys seemed to put fresh vigour into their play, and were now shooting away at the opposite goal, and before long Rogers equalised from a neat pass on the left. From the centre, Hugh Thomas, who played a fine game on the right all through, ran the ball down and forced a corner. This was well taken by Morris Jones, but the British backs cleared. Not to be denied the National lads renewed their attack, and Rogers struck the cross-bar with a good shot. The goalkeeper, Martin, who was defending splendidly, played the ball out, but it was returned, and Hugh Thomas kicked it cleverly through. A perfect hurricane was now raging, and the British b vs are to be congratulated for .hir pluck in facing a gale, nd mauy times tneir forwards, led by I 'rivktin, rr I f 1.1:: field. but were checked either i f.bo half or of the opposing team. Another raid was now made on the British goal, and after good play between Thomas, Morris Jones, Venn, and Alder, Rogers scored again. Soon after- wards the whistle sounded, and a very pleasantly- contested game ended in a victory of three goals to one in favour of the Wrexham National. These teams will meet again next year in the Schools' League which has just been formed. Teams :— British School Goal, Martin backs, W. Hughes (captain) and J. T. Davies; half-backs, William Vernon, W. Crosse, Caradoc Evans forwards, J. Blacktin, A. Evans, C. G. Davies, C. Parry, O. Hedley. National School J. Mackie (captain) backs, R. Hughes and F. Bigneil; half-backs, Ezra Pugh, Morris Jones, and George Balsom forwards, LI. Wilks, J. Adler, Charles Rogers, Charles Venn, and Hugh Thomas. Referee, Mr Collins. Linesmen, Messrs L. Edwards and H. Lawley.

SHROPSHIRE AND DISTRICT LEAGUE. WELLINGTON V. WROCKWARDINE WOOD..—On the ground of the latter club, in a heavy snow fall. At half-time neither side had scored. In the second half play was again even. The home side wert the first to get through. Wellington tnen took up the pressure, and in the result the drew level, the game ending in a draw of one goal each. RUABOX ALBION V. WELSHPOOL.—These teams met on Saturday in the return Shropshire League match at Welshpool. The visitors had their strongest team, and the home club was well represented. During the first half each side scored once, and in the second half, the home team registered a second goal, and won by two goals to one. NEWPORT v. NEWTOWN.—At Newport. The game for a few minutes was fairly even, but after about ten minutes' play King got through the home defence. The ball had no sooner been kicked off from the centre than Hartley got possession, and in less than a minute the score was made level. After a spell of hard luck on both sides, Newport again got through, and before the change of ends they added two goals. In the second half, Newport scored twice, whilst the Welshmen failed to get through, and retired defeated by six goals to one. WHITCHURCH V. MARKET DRAYTON.—At Whit- church. For a few minutes the home forwards, play- ing with the wind, kept the ball in their opponents' territory, and on several occasions came very near scoring. Then the Drayton forwards broke away, and succeeded in getting through. This roused the home forwards, and they were soon swarming in front of the visitors' goa,), with the result that Challoner scored for them. The visitors got another point, and at half-time were leading by two goals to one. The second half was mostly in favour of Drayton, who succeeded in adding two goals. Whit- church failed to get through, and retired defeated by four goals to one. Results up to and including Saturday last:— Goals P. W. L. D. For Agst. Pts. Market Dravton 9. 6.. 2' 1 25 14 13 Wellington !it. G'ge's 5. 4. 1. 0 18. 8 Hereford 5 4 1 0 19 7 8 Newtown 8 4 4 0 17 20 8 VVrockwardinc Wood 5 2 0 3 7 5 7 Newport Town 8 3 4 1 20 17 7 Wellington Town 4 2 1 1 12 10 5 Iroubridge 6 I. 3. 2 10 14. 4 Oswestry United 8 2 6 0 16 21. 4 Whitchurch Town 8 0 6 2 6. 37 2

SHROPSHIRE JUNIOR CUP. WELLINGTON POST OFFCE V. SHIFNAL WANDERERS -At IA-ellincton. The home team had the best of the play throughout, and ran out easy winners by five goals to one. MADELEY v. DAWLEY.—At Madeley. In the first half of the game the visitors succeeded in once breaking through the Madeley defence, and at half- time led by one goal to none. Early in the second half Jeffery scored for iladeley, and the result was again a draw-one goal each. At the conclusion of the hour and a half darkness had set in, and it was impossible to play extra time. OSWESTRY UNITED RESERVE v. BARRACK ROVERS, SIIIMW.IIIURY.-These teams having played a drawn game at Oswestry on the previous Saturday, met again on the same ground on Thursday. The weather was very unpropitious, and a high wind made good football impossible. When ends were changed, the home lads were leading by three goals to none. On resuming, the Rovers were the first to press, but they were soon driven back, and put on the defensive. The homesters had the best of the exchanges, but nothing further was scored by eithsr side, and Oswestry ran out winners by four goals to two. The following were the teams :— Barrack Rovers: Goal, Pearson; backs, Cartwright and Evans; half-backs, Richards, Huff, and Whelan; right wing, W. Jones and Palmer; left wing, J. Jones and Davies; centre, Rogers. Linesman, Colour-Sergeant Woodland. Oswestry United Reserve: Goal, F. Glover; backs, G. Whitfield and J. Brookfield; half-backs, Milner, Jones, and Watkins; right-wing, W. E. Roberts and Matthews; left-wing, Roberts and Goderich centre, H. Aston. Linesman, Mr Rollson. Referee, Mr R. T. Gough, Oswestry. • ELLESMERE V. WHITTINGTON. Played on the Wharf Meadow, Ellesmere, on Saturday, before a fair assemblage of spectators, but in wretched weather. The ground was covered with snow, whilst there was a gale blowing, and snow fell at intervals. The game at tne commencement was fairly even, each goal being visited in turn. Each team played hard, and at the interval the game stood-Rangers, one goal; Whittington, nil. On resuming, the Rangers forced the play, but found a splendid defence opposed to them. A good game ended in a win for Ellesmere by one goal to nil. The game was well contested, the defence on both sides evidently being the strongest part of the team. Mr G. Doody of Oswestry, officiated as referee, and gave the utmost satisfaction. Rangers' team—Goal, H. Dawson backs, T. Barnes and A. Woodville; half-backs, A. Downes, W. H. Jones, and J. Smith; forwards, T. Wellings, H. R. Urion, C. Tabor, A. E. Whitfield, Ellis.

THE LEAGUE. The defeat of Aston Villa, at Preston, furnished the most noteworthy event in the League original programme of six matches on Saturday. It make a serious difference to tneir record, and for the time being lets up Everton, who again won on Saturday into first place on the League list. Thus, while Everton during the last six weeks have been playing with all their old brilliancy, the Villa's football has scarcely maintained the high standard possessed by it in the first two months of the season. Derby County were also successful again. So the competi- tion for the championship is much keener than it promised to be at one period. Saturday's play was naturally affected by the weather. Results Goals. P. W. L. D. For Agst. Pts. Everton 17..10.. 4.. 3.. 39.. 23 22 Derby County 14.. 10. 3. 1.. 42. 19. 21 Aston Yillu. 15.. 9.. 3.. 3. 43.. 26.. 21 Stoke 17. 10.. 7.. 0. 33. 20.. 20 Boltt)ii W:inderer 15.. 8.. 5.. 2. 25. 20.. 18 Blackburn Hovers 13.. 7.. 3.. 3.. 23.. 16.. 17 Sliefflot(I Wednesday 13.. 7. 4.. 2.. 26.. 25. 16 Sunderland 14.. 6.. 4. 4.. 20.. 18.. 16 Preston North End 15. 7. 6.. 2.. 25.. 33 16 Wolverhampton W'and'rs. 14.. 5. 8. 1.. 29.. 30. 11 Sheffield United 14.. 5.. 8.. 1.17..28..11 Notts Forest. 15. 5.. 10. 0. 23.. 30 10 ^ur-v- 13.. 4.. 8.. 1.. 22.. 27.. 9 Burnley 15. 3.. 9. 3.. 17.. 29 9 West Brolllwich Albion 15. 3. 10. L. 17. 31. 8 Small Heath. 13.. 3.. 10.. 0. 20.. 46.. 6

I AN OLD WREXHAM FOOTBALLER. Ben Lewis, like his compatriot "Billy," is an ardent Welshman, and a good specimen of what Wales can turn out in the way of football talent. A native of Wrexham, he commenced his football career there about a dozen years ago. He soon found his way to Chester, and after playing a few good games for the city team he joined the ranks of Bootle, and with them won the Liverpool Senior Cup medal. He was induced to join the Chester team at a time when the club was at the zenith of its prosperty, and he played for them two seasons, and won the Charity Cup medal in the memorable match in which Chester defeated Northwich by five goals to nil. Ben returned to Wrexham after this, but only played for one season. He next joined Middlesborougb, and after plaving a season for them rejoined Wrexham. At the commencement of the present season Ben threw in his lot again with Chester, and has so far rendered them very able and consistent services. Strong, tricky, and reliable, and a very hard worker it is seldom his fault if a match is lost. Ben formerly played inside left for Chester, but he now figures on the outside right, in which position he displays equal facility. Ben has also rendered his native country good service, having been selected for international matches seven or eight times.-Liverpool Express

FIXTURES FOR SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14TH. THE LEAGUE (FIRST DIVISION.) I Derby County v. West Bromwich Albion, at Derby. I Kverton v. Stoke, at Everton. ltiirv v. Preston North End, at Bury. Notts Forest v, Sheffield United, at Nottingham. Aston Villa v. Bolton Wanderers, at Birmingham. Sheffield Wednesday v. Burnley, at Sheffield. Sunderland v. Small Heath, at Sunderland. Wolverhampton Wanderers v. Blackburn Rovers, at Wolverhampton. ENGLISH CUP TIES (FOURTH ROUND). Wrockwardine Wood v. Burton Swifts. Fairfield v. Crewc Alexandra. WELSH LEAGUE. Brymbo v. Drnids, at Brymbo. Chirk v. Rhos, at Chirk. RE-PLAYED WELSH CUP TIE. Westminster Rovers v. Bangor, on Salisbury Park, Wrexham. WELSU JUNIOR CUP TIES (SECOND ROUND.) at Queensferry Reserve v. Carnarvon IroDopoIis Reserve. at Queensferry. Bangor Reserve v. Flint Reserve, at Bangor. St?Mar?? v. Mold Red Star R^rves. at StanSy Park. Buckley Victoria v. Rhosrobin, at Buckley Wrexham Reserve v. Ruabon Albion, at Wrexham. Overt-'in Juniors v. Wrexham Old Boys, at Overton. Chirk Reserve v. Shrewsbury Athletic, st Chirk. Newtown Reserve v. Horsehay Albion, m Newtown Dawley Town v. Caersws, at Dawley. Shrewsbury Town v. Casuals (London), at Shrewsbitry. N.wtown v. Aberystwyth, at Newtown Wrexham National School v. Rossett School, on the Welc-. ie Club Ground. Hiekoffat-lia.m.

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