Flintshire Observer Mining Journal and General Advertiser for the Counties of Flint Denbigh

FLINTSHIRE QUARTER SESSIONS. WEDNESDAY. Th? Epiphany Quarter Sessions for the County of Flint wore cn;maenced at the County Hall, Mold, on Wednesday forenoon. The magistrates present were —John Scott I;ankes, Esq., (chairman), C. B. T. Roper, Esq., Major Wills, Ll. F Lloyd, Esq., F. Phillips, Esq., and Capt. Roper. CHIEF CONSTABLE'S REPORT. The following report was read by the Chief Consta- ble — Chief Constable's office, i. Holywell, 6th Jan., 1864. M.y Lords and Gentleman,—I have" the honor to lay before —' you the several returns for the past quarter. Pay to all ranks ■ is, t552 48 lid; contingencies, KISO 2s 4d making a total of J6702 7s 3d. The amount to be handet' over to the treasurer to the credit of the police rate is, E57 6s 2d; to superannuation fund, £ 19 2s 2d and the order for convey ance of prisoners to gaol amounts to £10 18s. Seventeen indictable offences were reported to the police 12 persons were apprehended, 2 dis- charged, and 12 committed for trial. In the last quarter ending Sep. 30th, 7 cases were only reported, 4 persons were appre- hended, I discharged, and 3 committed. There would appear by comparing this with the Sept. quarter, a considerable in- crease in the number of offences, but in referring to a similar period of 1862, December quarter gives 16 cases as reported, 14 apprehensions, 3 discharges, and 11 committals, showing an increase of one offence, as compared with the corresponding period of 1S62. In cases disposed of summarily 175 were appre- hended and summoned, 25 were discharged, 1 dismissed on ray- ment of costs, and 150 were convicted. During the previous quarter 362 were summoned and apprehended, 73 discharged, and 289 were convicted. In a corresponding quarter of 1862, 2i8 were summoned and apprehended, 86 were discharged, and 4 193 Were convicted there being a decrease in this over the previous quarter of 197 cases, and as compared with the same period of 1862 (December quarter,) 103 cases. It is with much regret that I report three cases ofwitful burning, which have occurred recently in the Holywell division, namely, two rick- • yards, and a large tract of mountain covert, belonging to Mr. [ Shipley Conway. The force is full, one man only ocing wanted | to make up the reserve. I am s"rrv to reportthe officer station- 1 ed at Bangor disabled by illness from doing police duty. His beat is and has been worked by adjoining1 constables and nothing has been reported of any moment for some time in that clivi- t sion, with the exception of a few cases of drunkenness. I beg to state that I haveprorcoted the inspector stationed at llanmer V, from tbs rank ot inspector to tnat of superintendent. He is an ""h. Energetic good officer, and fairly deserves this trilling nominal mark of approval. At the station houses and lockups at Khyl, tho hutinir mnpliir.prr is and the roof not water- proof at Holywell the roof is bad and chimneys smoky Hawarden the cells are damp from bad state of roof at Han. mer 5 more chimney tops are wanted, and some painting and papering is icquired. I have the honor to remain, My Lords an.1 Gentlemen, Your obedient servant, PETER HUOWSE, r Chief Constable of Flintshire." THE COMMITTEES. The names of the members of tho Police, County Rate, Lunatic Asylum, and -Gaol committees were read over by the clerk (A. T. Roberts, Esq) Mr. Falkner Lloyd asked how it was that the name of the Rev. Mr. Roberts had been taken off the list of this committee. That gentleman had been asked to attend there and it was found that his name was not upon the committee His name had beeu upon the committee, and he had acted in it. After some discussion it was agreed that the name of the Rev. Mr. Roberts and Mr. Philips should be added to the list of the members of the gaol committee. The committee as now constituted consists of Mr. Philips, Mr. Lloyd, Major Wills, Mr. Bankes, Captain Massey, and the Rev. Mr. Roberts. The additions to the standing list are Mr. Philips and the Rev. Mr. Roberts. VISITING JUSTICES' REPORT. Mr. Falkner Lloyd read the Visiting Justices' report- Mr. Falkner Lloyd read the Visiting Justices' report- which was very satisfactory. The accounts were examined and passed. The governor was instructed to issue the notices for the contracts to supply the gaol for the next six months. GAOLER'S REPORT. This report was also read. COUNTY SURVEYOR'S REPORT. The report, which was a lengthy one, had reference to Pont Robin, St. Asaph, and Rhydlan bridges, and Hanmer, Overton and Rhyl Lockups. THE COUNTY REFORMATORIES. It was announced that the reformatory at Kingswood was so full as to prevent the admission of any more boys. A reformatory in Glamorganshire was open to receive bovs, and the Justices' plerk was instructed to write to the authorities at Glamorganshire, that the magistrates were aware of that institution being available. In reply to one or two questions it was stated that the terms of admission to the Glamorgan- shire reformatory were the same as those to Kings- wood. RETENTION OF COUNTY LAW BOOKS BY THE EXECUTOR OF THE LATE CHAIRMAN OF QUARTER SESSIONS. ..q Certain law books belonging to the late Chairman of J 8 P1-' quarter sessions (Mr. Richards) bad been retained by his executor, Mr. Morgan, on the ground that they were the property of the deceased gentleman. Mr. Roberts (the present clerk) had been instructed to write for them, and a letter was now read from Mr. Morgan, declining to give them up upon the grounds already stated-namely, that they were private pro- perty.—The magistrates were of opinion that the books were county property, and ought to be given up. They were resolved to enforce their claim. THE COUNTY AND POLICE RATES. It was agreed that the county rate for the ensuing quarter should be £ 800; and that the police rate for the same period should be S400. PROPOSED AMALGAMATION OF THE FLINT BOROUGH POLICE WITH THE COUNTY CONSTABULARY. A deputation consisting of the Mayor of Flint, (J. JL Huntley, Esq., and the Town Clerk, (P. Ellis 'Eyton, Esq ,) waited upon the magistrates in refer- ence to a proposal emanating from the Borough of Flint, to consolidate the borough and county con- stabulary. The deputation were now ready to enter into arrangements respecting it. It was arranged that a meeting of the police committee should be summoned, for the deputation to lay the matter before them, and the committee could then draw up a report upon the scheme, for the next meeting of the magistrates, which it was agreed should take place on the 125th inst. THURSDAY. Trial of Prisoners. STEALING TIMBER AND SHIP-BUILDING TOOLS AT FLINT. William Evans, (35) labourer, surrendered to his bail, and was charged with stealing three pieces of timber, used as the ribs for small pleasure boats, a smoothing plane, a beat plane, and a brace, the pi-iiperty of Messrs.. M'Cullum, Furguson, and Bird, ship-builders, of Flint, t on the 18th day of November.—Mr. I. Williams appeared for the prosecution, and Mr. Swetcnham for the defence. Committed to prison for two months, FELONY AT OVERTON. Catherine Francis surrendered to her bail, and was charged with stealing a tin can, a looking-glass, three silver spoons, and a silver watch chain, the property of Mr. James Jones, of Overton, who was the executor of the late Mrs Elizabeth Roberts, with whom the prisoner had lived as maid-servant. Sentenced to four months' imprisonment with hard labour. FELONY AT IIOLYWELL. John Williams (44), miner was charged with steal- inga sack containing some wearing apparel and groceries the property of John Roberts, on the 24th December, Mr. Ignatius Williams prosecuted, and Mr. Swetenham defended. The Jury returned a verdict of Not Guilty, and the prisoner was discharged, the learned Chairman advising him to adopt this motto for the future, "Be careful." THEFT AT MOT.D. Thorn as Emmanuel, alias Emmanual (22), shoemaker, pleaded guilty to stealing a black silk scarf and a pair of worsted cuffs, the property of Mr. Dykins, of Mold, on the 8th November. A previous conviction having been proved against him, he was sentenced to 18 month's imprisonment. STEALING COPPER AT HOLYWEJL. Joseph Amos, (44) labourer was charged with steal- ing six pounds weight of copper, value 5s., the pro- perty of William Keates and others (prisoner's masters), of Holywell, on] the 6th November. The prisoner had been employed as a washer at the copper works of Messrs Newton, Keates, and Co, Holywell, and about the date mentioned he sold 6ttis of copper for lOd. to a man named George O'Neil who afterwards sold it to Mr. Jukes, marine store dealer, of the same place. The copper had been in the shape of a pan, but was beaten up when sold by the prisioner. The jury found the prisoner guilty, and he was sentenced to six months' imprisonment with hard labour. STEALING MONEY AT TRYDDYN. Edward Morria, collier was charged with feloniously stealing two sovereigns, one purse and one key, the property of James Pendlebury, at Trvddyn, on the 9th day of November, 1863. Mr. Ralph prosecuted; the prisoner was undefended. The jury after a short deliberation found the prisoner guilty.—Sentence 9 months' imprisonment hard labour. STEALING HARNESS. Michael Davies was charged with feloniously steal- ing one back band, the propeity of the Coed Talon Colliery Company, his masters, at Tryddyn, on the 4th of March, 1863. Mr. Ralph prosecuted, and Mr. Williams, defended the prisoner. Not Guilty. STEALING A LEG OF MUTTON. Hugh Ellis was charged with stealing a leg of mutton the property of John Cunnah, at Buckley. Mr. Swettenham prosecuted, and Mr. Williams defended the prisoner. Not Guilty. MALICIOUSLY WOUNDING AT MOLD. Edward Williams and Thomas Williams, the one described in the calendar as a labourer and the other as a collier, were charged with having on the 9th Dec., 1863, at the parish of Mold. unlawfully and maliciously with a stick and by other means wounded one Robert Jones, with intent to do him bodily harm. Mr. Sweten- ham prosecuted the prisoners were undefended. The prisoners having each addressed the jury, stating that they were challenged by prosecutor first to fight, the jury brought a, verdict of guilty, and they were each sentenced to eighteen months' imprisonment, with hard labour. ♦

HOLY WELL. THE CHRISTMAS TREE. To a journalist it is ever an agreeable task and a labour of love" to chronicle the successful accom- plishment of a praiseworthy object. It is now our pleasing duty to announce that our Christmas Tree was a great success, and exceeded the most sanguine ex- pectations of all parties. That it would be a failure we never thought, knowing as we do the zeal and energy upon other occasions evinced by the church-going people of the town,—but that so large a sum as fifty pounds would be realized we never calculated upon. A few weeks ago only the idea of getting up a Christmas Tree was first thought of, with a v,ew of obtaining funds for the purchase of a Harmonium for the Sunday Schools and Wednesday evening lectures, and on Tuesday and Wednesday, the 5th and 6th insts., the object was most successfully achieved. The folio wing ladies and gentlemen contributed to the tree:—Mrs. Astle, Penymaes; Mrs. Bate, Kolster- ton Miss Birch, Mold; Mrs E. J. Davies, Saithaelwyd Cottage Miss Davies, High-street; the Miss Davys, Meadow Cottage; Mrs. Denker: Miss Donnell. StaWbridge; the Miss Dykins, Greenfield; Mis?' Charlotte Dykins, Greenhill; Mrs. Moses D. Edwards; Miss Alice Edwards, and Miss M. E. Edwards, White Horse Hotel; Mr. Field Mrs. Gamer Mis., M. A. Gurnev Miss Harrison, Castle Ilill; Mrs. J'lhn Hughes, IJigh-street Misses C. and S. Hughes; Miss E. IluteEfield, Greenhill; the Miss Inglebvs; Miss Grace Jackson; Mrs. Hugh Jones; Mrs. Johnson Jones, Pistyll; Miss Jones, Penypylle Miss Ame lia Jones; Miss Jones, 16, Panton pLce; Miss Helen Jones, Chapel street; Miss Ellen Jones, High street; the Misses Jones, Whitford street; Mr. E. Jones High street; Miss J. Jones. Greenfield; Miss Jones, 2, Panton place Miss Jones, Penyball; Mrs. Leigh, the Miss Leighs the Miss Lloyds, London house Miss S. LI iyd. Vicarage the Miss Mathers, Glyn Abbot; Mrs. Morrison, Birkenhead Mr. William Newby; Miss M. A. Parry, Mold; Mr. John Powell, Well street; Miss Smalley, Mrs. R. Smedley, Mrs T. Smedley, the Miss Smedleys, Miss Stevens, Paper works Mrs. M. Vickers, Mr. E. J. Vickery, Miss Whitehousc, Mrs. Betty Williams, Peni-rnaes; Mrs. James Williams, Well street; the Misses Williams, Well street; the Misses Williams, Chapel street; Miss Winter, Mrs. J. H. Wolstenholme, Miss Wynne. The articles sent in numbered 800, and were, as might well be imagined, of a miscellaneous description, and with which there was no difficulty in dressing out the tree, although it stood fifteen feet high, and which was kindly given by Mrs. Jones, Penypylle. The tree was placed in St. Wenefred's Chapel, and the ancient edifice was most tastefully decorated for the interesting occasion, in a manner which evidently to. spoke that other hands than those of the lords of the creation had been at work, for taste and elegance were everywhere deseernable,-thatks to the fair and gentle hands of the ladies, who not only in getting up the tree, but also in decorating the chapel, were most busily engaged. To attempt to describe and to enumerate the mis- cellaneous fruit of the stately spruce would be impossible on our part, suffice it to say that its branches were laden with every description of fancy work, and also with most useful and suitable articles. The tree was first exhibited in the morning and also in the evening of Tuesday, and on the evening of Wednesday. On the first day it was visited, inspected, and, we are happy to say, deprived of its decorations to a very large extent, and a brisk and thriving trade was throughout the day carried on. In the evening, when lit up, the effect of the tree was particularly striking, and the scene was really a picturesque one.- The busy bum of commerce (!) was every where to be heard, and as a proof of the very superior abilities of the vendors in the sale of their goods, we may men- tion that every article was disposed of by Wednesday evening. Raffles for many of the articles were made, and little ducks of frocks, as the ladies termed them, and other similar interesting articles, occasionaliy fell to the lot of forlorn bachelors, whose bewilderment as to what they should do with them was commensurate with the hearty laugh with which their success was generally greeted. During the two days' exhibition Mr. Field, the organist, kindly presided at the piano, and greatly con- tributed to the enlivenment of the proceedings. Throughout the two exhibition days the Vicar was most actively engaged, and apparently appeared to be highly delighted with the successful undertaking of his congregation, and, we may safely add, that a closer tic between pastor and people no where exists than may happily be witnessed between the respected Vicar of Holywell and his parishioners. At the close of the proceedings Mr. Cole proposal a vote of thanks to he Vicar, who while thankfully acknowledging the compliment, remarked that his services were not worthy of any marked notice, but that especial thanks were due to the ladies, which at another time he would propose. The proceedings were then brought to a close by singing the National Anthem in which all the company present joined. -■

HOLYWELL. MEETING OF RATEPAYERS. ON Monday week last a meeting of ratepayers adverse to the removal of the market from its present position was held at the White Horse Ilotel. The following is a copy of the placard calling the meeting, which was attended with one or two exceptions by the gentle- men whose signatures were attached to the notice, and also by several others,—" WE, the undersigned, Rate- payers of the Township of Holywell, do hereby invite the attendance of our fellow Ratepayers who may feel opposed to the removal of the Market from its ancient and central site, and who also object to the Local Board borrowing so large a sum as S4000 on the security of the rates of the Township, to attend a Meeting of Rate- payers entertaining similar opinions, to be held at the Royal and White Horse Hotel, Holywell, on Monday, the 4th day of January, 1864, at 12 o'clock, for the purpose of petitioning the Local Boatd not to carry out their present views and to take such other steps as may be deemed expedient. Edward Jones, William Parry, William Owens, James Davies, John Jones, John S. Smalley, William Williams, Rich. Ellis, Jos. Wm. Lloyd, John Thomas. Thomas Gregory, Thomas Price, Rich. Lloyd, Francis Edwards, Thomas Owens, Joseph Peters, James Bowen, Tho. Bell, Edw Jukes, Joseph Garner, Thomas Jones. Mr. Samuel William- son, Mr. Thomas Smedley, and Mr. James Hall, representing the opposition party were also present, together with a few others. Mr. J. V. Harrison was voted to the chair, who read the notice convening the meeting, and also the memorial which had been prepared for the purpose of petitioning the Local Board against the removal of the market, and also to oppose the motion made for power to borrow 14000 for market purposes. The following is a copy of the memorial: "To THE HOLYWELL LOCAL BOAltD.- Gentl omen,- We, the undersigned, a majority of the Owners and Ratepayers of property, in the township of Holywell, in the county of Flint, being aware that it is the intention of your Board to remove the market place of the town of Holywell from its present ancient and accustomed place, and where the market has been held for time immemorial; and also that it is the intention of your Board to borrow the very large sum of £ 4000 for the purpose of erecting a market place or market hall, upon the security of the rates of the township, whereby the Ratepayers will bo burdened by an in- crease of the rates, which they already feel sufficiently oppressive and heavy,—do hereby respectfully and earnestly submit to you the impropriety of carrying out such resolution, which wo feel assured will not tend to improve the business and convenience of the town, but will inflict upon the inhabitants of the township at large a very serious injury, by imposing upon them (many of whom are not resident in Holy- well) an increase of taxation, and the probability of plunging them into an almost endless and expensive litigation with the principal Owners of property of the town, who have already made known to your Board their determination to resist, by all legal means in their power the removal of the market from its present site. We also respectfully submit to your consider- ation whether, under any circumstances, the steps you are purposing to take may not be considered premature, inasmuch as the approbation of the Marquess of Westminster to the proceeding has not been secured, and a lease of his tolls obtained and you may be assured his Lordship will do no act whereby unfair- ness and illegality can be in any way fostered or encouraged." Letters were read from Sir Pyers Mostyn and Capt. Pennant agreeable to the objects of the meeting, and expressive of their regret at not being able to attend. A discussion here Snsued as to the incorrectness of the motives alleged to the opposition party, in which Mr. Williamson, Mr. James Hall, and others, took part, who denied the contemplated expenditure of X4000 in the erection of a market. Mr. Williamson in reply to some observations res- pecting the tolls, remarked that he could assure the meeting that the Marquess of Westminster was quite willing to grant a lease of the tolls of the market. The memorial (Mr. W.) stated was in some instances incorrect, and the latter paragraph with reference JJto the Marquess and the tolls he strongly opposed. Several gentlemen at this stage of the proceedings addressed the meeting, and by some it was advanced that the Marquess would not grant the tolls for the purpose of building a market to which the majority of the Rate- payers were opposed. The Rev. Canon Jones stated that while he had studiously avoided taking part in the proceedings they were then discussing he must say he was opposed to the borrowing of so large a sum as £ 4000. After a few further remarks the vicar, so as to meet the views of the opposite party, moved that the words "to ob- tain powers be inserted before the words to borrow the sum of £ 4000" &c., and it was also agreed that the paragraph respecting the tolls be omitted. The Meeting then terminated. +

HOLYWELL BOARD OF GUARDIANS, Friday, Jan. 8th, 1864. Guardians present:—The Right Hon. Lord Mostyn, (chairman,) Holywell—Mr. Owens and illr, Chestcrs; old -Mr. Ca'herall; Northop-Mr. Webster and Mr. Peers; G wat nyscor—Mr. John Jones; Nannerch — Rev. D. Williams Newmarket—Mr. Edward Ellis; Canwys-Mr, J. S. Williams. The following cheques were issued to the Relieving Officers — Mr. William Hughes £ 175 Mr. John Roberts 160 Mr. J. F. Hooson 130 A letter trom the Poor Law Board was read, emana- ting from the auditor's last report, enquiring whether the sum of £1 2s. 3d., surcharged in Mr. Hughes' (the master) accounts had been paid to the Union Treasurer. The clerk, in answer to Lord Mostyn, said that the sum had not been so paid, as Mr. Hughes was going to appeal against the said surcharge. The masterenquired to what parish one Mary Lloyd, who had been received into the house destitute, was to be charged. Mr. Thomas Owens stated that the pauper referred to had some days ago paid a visit to the house, ar.d examined the various apartments, and who curiously enough, demanded entrance in a short time afterwards alleging that she was destitute, and was confined of a child in a few hours. As she had become destitute at Holywell the case was allowed to stand on the books of that parish. On Wednesday week the workhouse children to the number of 60 were kindly invited by the Rev. Canon Jones to view the Christmas tree, and were afterwards treated to cakes by their much respected chaplain. .Master's Book.-N umber of inmates in the house last board day, 167 admitted since, 14; discharged, i 7; births, 2; deaths, 1; present number, 175. Vagrants admitted sin< e last board day, 26. The business transacted at this board was of no particular interest.

Holywell Petty Sessions Tuesday, January 5th, 1864. These sessions were hold before the Rev. Dr. Briscoe, Rev. E. Evans, R. Sankey, Esq., and G. P. Roskell, Esq. The chief business of the meeting was the hearing of assault cases, of which we subjoin the fol'owing. David Henry Jones v. Edward Edwards, both of Holywell.—Assault.—The defendant was fined 10s. with costs, which were paid. Richard Gratton v. Robert Davies.—This was an assault case in which lr Williams, solicitor, Flint, appeared for the defence. Richard Gratton (the complainant) having been sworn, stated that he was book-keeper for Messrs. Walker, Parker, & Co., at their works at Bagillt, that on the 18th of December last he was called by a little boy to quell a disturbance, (he being one of the parish constables), went out to the yard and there saw his brother Edward Gratton lying on the floor, and Robert Davies was holding him down; told him to loose his brother, when he cursed me, saying You old d- I'll do the same with you." Witness there- upon went to the house for his staff, and on his return was collared by Davies. He afterwards tried to pre- vent witness' entering his own house. In cross-examination by Mr. Williams nothing fresh was elicited. Mary Evans a witness for the plaintiff said she was going to the shop a fortnight to the previous Friday when, by the works, she heard a noise; went on a little distance when she saw a man coming towards her, he was holding Edward Gratton by the neckerchief. Stood there and saw them pass towards Mr. Richard Gratton's house went towards Mr. Richard Gratton's who threatened to send for the police. In cross-examination witness said that she did not see Davies do anything to Richard Gratton. Mr. Richard Gratton's servant said that she heard Edward Gratton call on her master who went out, the witness following; Davies was then holding Edward Gratton on the ground by the neckerchief, Mr. Rich. Gratton came in for his staff, and when he went out again he was collared by the defendant Robert Davies, who would not ailow him to get to his own house. Mr. Wil.iams here made a powei ful appeal on be- half of his client, contending that no assault whatever had been committed. There was no one more sorry than he was at being obliged to bring before a public court family affairs, however, the present case was such that he was iu justice to.his client bound to do so. Mr. Williams here made several remarks as to the general conduct of the plaintiff's brother, the cause of which had given rise to the present action. He stated that on the day in question the defendant ac- companied by his sister (Mrs. Edward Gratton) pro- ceeded towards the plaintiff's house, for the purpose of extricating certain rearing apparel locked up by Edw. Gratton at the shop, and which belonged to their children, he Edward Gratton having stated that the key of the shop was in the possession of his brother Richard, and it was for the purpose of bringing the parties face to face that the defendant took hold of Edw. Gratton by his collar. After some further re- marks bad been made by Mr. Williams, he called Mrs. Gratton who confirmed his statement, whereupon the magistrates stated their desire to hear the case of Edw. Gratton v. Robert Davies previous to giving their decision, which case was there and then proceeded with, the evidence being nearly the same as in the previous one. In cross-examination by Mr. Williams plaintiff admitted that Davies had applied to him for a boy's coat, and he was going for the same when he was assaulted. Again did Mr. Williams contend that no assault had been committed, and urging that should their worships think that the case was proved against his client, that a mere nominal fine only should be inflicted. After a little consultation the magistrates brought in a conviction, and fined the defendant for the first offence on Richard Gratton £ 2, with ZI 3s 2d costs and for the second offence on Edw. Gratton a fine of 5s. with 17s. 8d. costs, or in defaulf to be im- prisoned for six weeks. Mr. Williams here applied for, and obtained an order to protect the future earnings and property of Mrs. Jane Gratten, under sec. 21 of the Act to amend the law relating to Divorce and Matrimonial Causes. The application was founded upon grounds of desertion, refusal to maintain, See. Samuel Balls, supervisor, v. John Needham, Whit- ford.—The district supervisor, Mr. Balls, appeared to prefer a charge against the above-named John Needham for having illegally sold one half-pint of ale, he having no licence to do so. Mr. B. said that the defendant's licence had transpired since the 10th October last, and no fresh licence had been subsequently granted. Mr. Patten, exise-officer, stated that on the 27th November he visited the house of John Needham, and there pur- chased one half-pint of ale, for which he paid 1-id. It was from Mrs. Needham that he got the ale. Mr. Balls having intimated to the bench that the least fine that could be imposed was f,6, whereupon the magis- trates inflicted the same. Thomas Dowall v. Edward Bamford, gamekeeper.— This was an assault case.—Fined Is. 8¡; 13s. 6d. costs. Surveyors of Mertyn Uwchglan v. William Pierce. —This was a charge for having illegally encrouched upon a certain road leading from Golch to Gorsedd, belonging to the township of Mertyn Uwcbglan. —Fined 40s. and costs, or one month's imprisonment. George Foulkes v. Thomas Lee and William Jones. —This was an assault case, in which the complainant was a young man from Liverpool, who had come on a visit to see a friend on the 26th Deeember last. While accompanying his lady love home up the Holloway road, he was attacked by William Jones and Thomas Lee, pulled on the ground, and kicked in the most brutal manner about the head and body. The young woman corroborated his evidence, and laid a complaint th|t she also had been pulled on tlie ground and kicked abfflut by the ruffians. Several witnesses (friends to th» defendants) were called, but the bench determined to put a stop to the carryings on of a gang of country fellows, who come to town, get drunk, and while going home commit all manner of depredations along the road, he (the reverend chairman,) stated he knew the parties who composed the gang, and he hoped the pre- sent case would be a lesson to them. As for this case it was a most dn adful one, and the parties ought to be ashamed of themselves to go and commit an assault on a strange young man, but more especially on the young woman They were bound to protect young women, and they would do so too. In this case William Jones would be sent to Flint gaol for two months, and Lee to one month's imprisonment, which sentence the chairman hoped would be a sufficient Warning to them and to others in future.

— 0 FLINT PARISH CHURCH. OPENING OF THE NEW ORGAN. Ox Thursday, the 7th inst., the above interesting ceremony was duly celebrated. The want of an organ had long been experienced, and the subject having been taken up by the worthy Rector, the Rev. Thos. Williams, was of itself sufficient tjatansure success,—a pleasing evidence of which was obse rvable on the opening day. I In the morning Divine Service took place at 11.30. The prayers were read by the Rector, the lessons and communion by the Rev. Robt. Eyton, Northop, and the Rev. E. Smart, Henllan, and a most admirable sermon preached by the Very Rev. the Dean of St. Asaph. The services were full choral, and the organ was therelore brought out to the greatest advan- tage,—Mr. Gunton, Chester Cathedral, presided and most admirably performed his part. The parish choir was assisted on the occasion by the members of the Hint Choral Society,' numbering over fifty, under the able direction of Mr. Ciizncr, of Chester Cathedral. The musical services were most creditably gone through, and we may safely say could not have been excelled in any ChurCh in the Diocese. Morning Service over, the Rev. Rector and Mrs. Williams, with their wonted liberality, invited a num- ber "of their friends to partake of a most sumptuous luncheon, provided by them in the National School- room. The choir was also entertained, and including the visitors, fully 200 partook of the Rector's generosity. The chair was taken by Mr. Williams and the vice- chair by Mr. Smqjt, Henllan The health of the Bishop and Clergy was proposed, and with it was connected the Dean of St. Asaph, and many tlianks to him for his very excellent sermon. Mr. Huntley next proposed the Rector of Flint and Mrs. Williams, ami in so doing paid the wo? thy couple the highest of compliments, and the applause with which their names were received, loudly told that no compli- ment that could be offered was greater than they deserved. The health of the Chief Magistrate—Mr. Huntley, the Town Clerk-Mr. P. Ellis Eyton, Mr. Gunton, Mr. Cuzner, &c., were also proposed and duly acknowledged. We should here remark that the new organ was built by Mr. Bryceson Brothers, London, and contains the following stops :—dulciana, diapason, bass, diapason treble, open diapason, principal, twelfth, fifteenth, cor- nopean, bourdon, and an octave and a half of pedal pipes, all enclosed in a general swell. Aft. Gunton ex- pressed his unqualified admiration of the instrument. The Church in the morning was crowded, and amongst those present we noticed :—Sir S. R. Glynne, Bart., The Misses Eyton, Cornist, The Mayor of Flint and Mrs. Huntley, Dr. Muspratt, A. Castle, Esq. and Mrs. Castle, London, Mrs. Bate and family, together with leading families of the surrounding neighbourhood. In the evening Divine Service was held in Welsh, when the Rev. E. Smart delivered an appropriate and impressive sermon. Greenfield.-The employed at the extensive xttftUs of Messrs. Newton, Keates, & Co., were enter- tained by Mr. Keates to a dinner, on the 2nd and 9th insts. respectively, provided at Greenhill and the Royal Rotel, Greenfield. Upwards of a 160 partook of the sumptuous cheer, and most agreeable evenings were spent. Mr. Thos. Hughes, the manager, presided, and Dr. Davies occupied the vice-chair. The health of the firm and that too of Mr. Keates were given and heartily responded to. Miraculous escape from Drowning in the Dee.—ON Tuesday last Henry Ashwin, Esq., of Plas Llanerchymor, and Richard Ashwin, Esq., of Aldington Manor, Worcestershire, with a c. ew of three men were out duck-shootitig in the screw steam yacht— Artful." At 11.15 a.m., when some two and a half miles from shore;" the Yacht struck on the Bagillt bank, and in- stantly capsized: There .being a very strong flood-tide running up at the time it was almost a miracle that no lives were lost. The Yacht's boat which was lashed by h short painter to her stern would have immediately filled had not the painter been cut iu a moment, so as to liberate the boat from the rtfWi of water as will as to keep it clear from being stove in by the surging Yacht. The above two gentlemen with two of the crew clung to the boat, and eventually succeeded in getting in. The engineer, who was in the engine room at the time of the catastrophe, was unfortunately left clinging to the wreck and managed to get on the upper side. A few minutes, however, sufficed to entirely bury the vessel in the waves, and as there was« only one our in the boat, which was moreover half full of water, it was impossible to make any head again*t the terrific violonce of the tide to rescue the unfortun- ate man from his perilous position, and only for the timely aid rendered by the steam yacht Erin," (belonging to J. C. Buxton, Esq., of Daresby Hall. Warrington,) he would undoubtedly have perished, as she lowered a boat just in time to save him from a watery grave, as the tide swept him from the vessel, The other boat with its four occupants were also picked up by the "Erin," and treated with every kindness, and landed in safety. The crew of the "Erin were liberally rewarded by Mr. Ashwin for their kind services. The cause of the accident is attributed to the yacht having grounded on the bank^in such a posi- tion that the whole of the star-board beam was at once exposed to the full force of the tide, aad she was con- consequently unable to resist so sudden a strain.—

Births. 31 st ult., at Bank Place, Holywell, the wife of Mr. Nankivell, of a son. 11th inst., the wife of Mr. Owen Williams, Holy- well, of a son. 12th inst., the wife of Mr. E. Hughes, Swan Inn, Holywell, of a daughter. Deaths. 2nd inst., atEgremont, Cheshire. Mr. Gronwy Owen Price, late of Holywell, aged 33 years. Gth inst., Mr. Joseph Roberts, Boot-maker, Holy- well, aged 83 years. Mr. Roberts was one of the two last surviving members in the town of the first Holywell Volunteers under the command of the late venerated David Pennant, Esq. of Downing about 60 years ago, there is now only one remaining out, of 250. 11th inst., at Gronant, Rhyl, John Dawson, Esq., in his 80th year. 11th inst., Catherine, the beloved wife of Mr. Geo. Jones, Mount Zion, Holywell, aged 29 years. 27th ult., at Llanddulas, Mr. Thomas Griffiths, the last surviving son of the late Mr. Moses Griffiths, Whitford. 11th inst., Ellen Mary, the infant child of Mr. John Williams, Jessamine Cottage, Greenfield, Holywell.

HOLYWELL LOCAL BOARD. THIS Board held its general monthly meeting on Monday last, the following members of the Board being present,—Mr. Williamson, (chairman), Mr. 1. Owens, Mr. Thomas Smedley, Mr. James Hall, Mr. Edward Lloyd, Mr. Powell, Dr. Davies, Mr. M. D. Edwards, and Mr. Joseph Garner. The clerk read the minutes of the last general and subseqnent meetings of the Board, which were after- wards confirmed. The inspector's common lodging houses' and slaugter- houses' reports were next read, by which it seemed that there was nothing to complain of," whereupon the chairman confirmed them. The inspector then laid before the Board a complaint of nuisance at the Red Lion Court, signed by the Inhabitants thereof, in answer to which he said that directly he heard of the nuisance he pro- ceeded to the spot, and put a stop to tho wheeling of the manure, which it was alleged had given rise to the nuisance. It was then about 10 o'clock in the morning. The chairman stated that the nuisance was certainly very abominable, and a direct violation of the byelaws. The inspector should summon the offenders, whoever they may be. Mr. Thomas Owens thought it would be too prema- ture to do so, as he thought that the parties, if served by a proper notice from the Board, would no doubt ajjate the nuisance. The chairman remarked that undoubtedly there was a good deal of truth in what Mr. Owens had said, hut if they did not put the law into force, then what was the use of it. Another complaint of manure running from the King's Arms' yard to the road, and which it wa, said caused a very offensive smell to the frequenters of the English Congregational Church, was read from Mr. William Davies, Bryntirion. A third complaint was read requesting that railings should be placed around certain houses in the new road,—leading to Bryn Zion,—and which were deemed dangerous to human life. The inspector was ordered to take the steps he may have power to use for the purpose of abating the nuisances complained of. THE MARKET QUESTION. The clerk stated that he had received the plans of the proposed new market hall from Mr. Hughes, and which were laid before the board for inspection; the estimated amount required for constructing the all was £2900 which sum was considered far too high, and the plans were consequently "thrown out of court." Mr. Lloyd thereupon moved that advertisements calling for plans of a new market hall be pubiishel. The chairman seconded the motion, whereup;.m Mr. T. Smedley suggested that Messrs. Crockferd, Scrivener, Morris, and Lloyd Williams, (being the gentlemen competing for the Well plans,) together with Mr. Hughes and the Architects of the ituthia and Chester new markets be written to, requesting them to furnish the board with plans of a new market hall, for which a premium of t20 would be given for the best plan-to merge in the commision ;-and thnt they be requested to furnish the plans within a month's time,—and further that Mr. Hughes be informed upon what grounds his plan was thrown out." Mr. Lloyd then withdrew his motion and the. above suggestion was carried. A committee to give the necessary information to the Architects was then formed to comprise the fol- lowing members—The chairman, Mr. Edward Lloyd. Mr. M. 1). Edwards, Mr. Smedley and Mr. Garner. A Highway Rate of 6d. in the pound, and a general District Rate of 9d. in the pound were authorized. Application was made to construct some new build- ings in the New Road by Mr. William Jones, builder, Castle View, but in consequence of some informality in the application the matter was deferred until next Monday, to which date the board was adjourned. ♦

To flie Editor of the Flintshire Observer." Siit,-In my former letter, to which you gave a place, I offered some suggestions to the Improvement Commissioners of Holywell, relative to the proposed Market Hall and Well Improvements. With your permission I will now add a few words on drainage and supply of water,—these two objects, though coming last, are by no means least as respects the com- fort and general well being of the inhabitants. I have heard a large sum mentioned as the necessary cost of sewering the town, at first sight this would app -ax to be a great exaggeration, foy Holywell appears to be singularly well situated for obtaining sufficient drainage, for a very moderate outlay. I say sufficient drainage, for in a town of such moderate size, little more is needed (provided proper conveniences in back premises arc constructed,) than ready outfalls for surface water, including that used for domestic purposes. I gather from reports occasionally appear- ing in your pages, that back premises have been and perhaps still are sadly neglected:—this should be amended, but more sewers will not much amend it, without at the same time creating such a nuisance at their out-fall, as would probably cause a great out- cry from parties affected by it. Possibly the Commis- sioners are acquainted with a mode of dealing with this part of the subject which is carried out in the town of Hyde, in Cheshire, and, I believe, in other parts of the manufacturing districts. A pamphlet costing only two pence giving details of the plan followed may be had at the publishers', Ncwhall's Buildings, Manchester;— from which publication much useful information may be obtained, whether the proposed system be adopted, or not. I will content myself with an extract from a written document, signed by 188 occupiers of property, at llyde. ihe back premises of numerous blocks of houses were disgusting to the sight, and nauseous to the smell. Frequent sickness was the result, especially in summer time, when the exhalations became past endurance.. The change effected is beyond anything "we ever expected to witness." In providing a supply of water for a town of small population, many of whom could ill-bear the imposition of a water tax," simple means only should be resorted to. Steam engines and other costly machinery should be avoided. I am told there is an abundant supply of good water running to waste, except in dry weather, from the lands above the town-a quantity amply sufficient, if caught in reservoirs, to supply the whole town. From such reservoirs the water might pa^s through simply constructed filter beds, to hydrants placed in convenient situations in the streets and courts of the Town. As things are at present, there certainly is but little inducement for well to do strangers to come and dwell among us. Nature has done much to make us admire the locality, and man has done much to spoil it. One of the most deterring features of Holywell and its neighbourhood in the eyes of strangers is the untidy appearance of much of the house property,—more-par- ticularly the cottages, which for the most part are of very imperfect construction, aed many of them in wretched condition. It it> unfort^mjitp that many of these skirt the sides of the prhvipal thoroughfare by which visitors approach the Town. The road from the Railway station to Holywell, through Greenfield, was originally but a lane leading to the shore, while now, there are probably ten times as many passengers alone- it, as go to the town by_ any other road, "which as respects first impressions, is untormnate, for along its whole length many oi the eoi-tagos are in wretched pli,ht,-iinsiipp,,)rted,-nnl)ainted, iiLs,,wered,-soiiie of them, I am told, without the commonest means of preserving decency,—whose only outlet is to the pnplic highway, which is thus, almost of necessity, made to serve the purpose of a common sewrer. Not only does this condition of things obtrude on the eye of the visitor on his appioach to the Town, but to the top of the new road whicn is almost in the midst of it,—nay, bevo^d this, for if he is directed to ascend Penyball, from which there is an almost unrivalled panoramic view,— he has to pass through a mass of deserted decaying dwellings, and of squalid cottages,—and, though he may adnure, and justly admire the beautiful scenery, he w iu be deterred from becoming an inhabitant. This state of things is not only deterring to visitors, but it 18 a standing grevianee to that portion of the inhabitants whose position is at all raised above poverty. I know perfectly well that where numbers of working people are congregated together, it is useless to expect every thing in and around their dwellings to be in neat and orderly array,—but when in addition to what may be called the inevitable disorder of a poor population, is added the neglect of their dwellings by those who own them, a sad state of things must ensue,—not only physically, but morally for how can you expect the moial senses to be cultivated and refined, when the physical ones are subject to such degradation. In this land of freedom, people may almost literally do what they will with their own—perhaps in. no country in the world' are the rights of property so jealously guarded as in this,—the law very properly allows of no invasion,—that which a man possesses he may use, (I had almost said and abuse) as he likes. But in proportion as the public law thus jealously guards the rights of the Owners of Property, it does in my opinion, impose upon them the moral responsibility of using it with a due regard to the comfort and con- venience of those who occupy it, or who aro surrounded by it,-the largeness of a rent roll" Cannot bring with it dignity or the consideration of hns if its contri- butions are from property, w is left in the condition which I have describec It may be thought that I have -ligressed from the subject I started with, bv tain the Local Board of Holywell can do b. the way of real beneficial improvement, unl( j are liberally and wisely seconded by the principal ers of property —and on this account they should cor ite and win them over to their views, instead of ge' to logger- heads with them, which they appear likely to do. Your obedient servant, A. B.

-0- To the Editor of the 11 17intshire Observer SrR,-The question of the site for the Market Hall still agitates the public mind in Holywell. The Local Board has decided upon the matter, and has purchased interests in the King's Arms site to the value of £ 700, therefore it seems evident to me that this vexed question should be finally set at rest. I ask is it right, just, or honourable that the so called lower end party, after having been so frequently defeated, should attempt to keep the question still open, and not accept their defeat like men. If the principle that the minority is to govern the majority, then farewell to local, municipal, and national government. Unfortu- nately such is attempted in Holywell, for private and selfish interests, and not for public good. I will en- deavour to show that the removal of the market will not ir. jure property, will not reduce rents, or interfere with business; if these two important items form a correct criterion to judge from, and if I am able to do so, I think it unfair that these selfish clamorers should thus place themselves in the way of progress. Moreover, the parties who oppose the King's Arms site as being "out of High-street," are the same who so strenuously advocated the Whitford-street and Spring gardens sites, neither of which are in High-street,— hence their consistency.—If the contiguity of the market is such a panacea for all the ills that trade and property is heir to, how is it that the shops and other business premises situated in the very centre of the present market place are so reduced in their rentals, while such is not the case with similar premises at the extreme ends of High- street, and the adjoining streets still further removed from the market place. These latter places ot business still maintain their original values, and arc still successful. In the centre of the market place we have seen the Bell and Antelope Inn closed for years together as tenant after tenant left it, and it is now let at little more than half its former rent. Then we have the noble hotel opposite, and which has been for a long time empty, whose rent is, after deducting what is sublet of the back premises, only about quarter its former value, and with all the boasted advantages of being in the very centre of the market place. While we have an hotel at the extreme of High-street letting at 170 per annum! And again, thee are houses and shops in the heart of the market place whose dingy looks and tumble-down condition are miserable and dangerous to look at and pass near to, find which let at about one-balf their former rental. Surely the down party" will not think to cadjole us by attempting to give us these startling facts as evidence of past or present prosperity of this particular portion of High-street. And bow is it that with all the advantages of the market place that there is not a grocer's shop on the south side of High-street until we come to Mr. D. Williams', near the National Provincial Bank, nor on the same side of Whitford street, until we come to Mrs. Jones & Son, and you have only one draper's establishment from this place in Whitford-street to the Victoria house at the extreme of High-street. On the north side of High-street again we have no draper's shop from Mr. Garner's until we come to London house; and from the top of Well street to opposite the National Provincial Bank you have only a grocer's, a tallow chandler's and a pro- vision shop. I may ask, when shops and premises have been so often empty in this lower portion of High-street, why the drapers aud grocers and others have left them so why have they shuned this central portion of High-street "where the market is held, and pay higher rents for shops further removed? The reason is obvious enough, for every man of business who has a shop front he is proud of. wishes to display his goods to the h 'st advantage, ana not have his win- dows obstructed* by antiquated relics of bye-gone ages, —stalls with their reeking contents, ready to bedaub the first, lady or gentk .ian who may venture to enter his shop. These partie3 then who choose to purchase their groceries and drapery goods feel compelled to patronize those shops, that are frier of access. And again, on neither side of High-street wiil we find a shoemaker's shop un:il .ve comc to near the National Provincial Bank, "no t,b. -wntcVr^nkers re riill further up. It may be asked wVl is it the bulk of the business (L'ne near tho present market site? Weil I will till you.—It is here that Sir John Barleycorn reigns supreme; he has here placed his wares broadcast as sp'dc-'s webs on an autumnal morning. He says this part -of High street is mine, and as I am patronised by rich and poor I claim the privilege of precedence, and the Market must not be removed to the detriment of my interest. AF 'be JJeer Barrel is so potent in its influ- ence in this ■•ild, it too often fcc,1 inclined to ride roughshod ov its neighbour. Trom Whitford-street to the top oi High-street you have on one side eleven drinking establishment*. agvlr.«t ■ ne grcc?r's and one draper's. It is no wonder th -u we should have Sir John Barleycorn so fiercely contesting his pre- sumed rights. If we therefore omi. the drinking establishments, there will not remain where the present Market is held above fourteen or fifteen individuals who are oppose to the King's Arms site, as the petition to the P',1rd show; and most of these are not so dependant on the Maiket as the grocers and drapers. There have two petitions been presented to the Hoard signed by a large majority of the ratepayers in favour of the King's Arms site, and the tiplatures to which affixed are free of the pressure of landlord influence, I therefore ho^e that our Commissioners, who have asserted their iuùep<:ndeDC4J 80 far, will still go on and not be deterred by any threat or influence. .\ntlas those Commissioners, with the exception of one, who advocate the upper site, havenc personal interest, in the way of business or property, in ihe matter, it is therefore evident they only want to benefit and im- prove the town, by placing a building in a spot where it will be both useful and ornamental, and of which future generations may be proud of.—Yours, AN OLD INHABITANT. Jan. 12 th, 1864.

-0- WE would beg to call the attention of our Holywell readers to another communication from the pen of "A. B," as specially deserving of their notice, and we would wish our correspondents generally would treat matters so temperately, and dispassionately. We regret that the effusions of another correspondent—"An DId Inhabitant,"—also in our to-day's paper, should be so widely different in temperament and respectful bearing to that of "A. B.'s." Alas! "An Old Inhabitant" would have the world believe that those who differ with him arc sworn desciples of John Barleycorn,—a pretty compliment to come .from an old inhabitant. An old inhabitant too states that "from the top of Well street to opposite the National Bank you have only a grocer's, a tallow chandler's, and 'a provision shop." Surely he will not ignore the existeure and respectability of a stationer's shop, three ironmongers' shops, three drapers' shops, two confectioners' shops, and other establishments which are, surely, as important as the watchmaker's shop situate, as "An Old lnllabitant" remarks, at the top of the town. "An Old Inhabitant" appGllS to labour under the impression that grocer" shops are the all important business establishments, and where they arc there should be the Market. We fear An Old Inhabitant's views on this head will not be generally entertained. Holywell.-Tlie half-yearly rent audit of the Downing Estates took plai'c on Tuesday week. In consequence of the indisposition of the respected agent, Edward Jones, Esq,, Pendre' House, he was unable to attend at'the Old Antelope Inn as usual, and the rents were received at his office. After the business was over the tenantry adjourned to the Inn. where a substantial dinner was provided. The chair was occu- pied by Mr. John S. Smalley, and after the usual loyal and patriotic toasts had been disposed of, the Chairman remarked that that was the first time Mr. Jones had been absent from the chair for eighty rent audits. _—

rpHE EXECUTORS of the late JOHN PARRY, | _I_ Ironmonger, &c., Chester Street, FLINT, beg to return their sincere thanks for the patronage bestowed return their sincere thanks for the patronage bestowed upon the late John Parry, and to state that in future the business will be carried on by them under the name of PARRY & CO., for their benefit, and they hope by strict attention to merit a continuance of that "kind patronage and support which was so liberally given to their late husband and father. It is requested that all Accounts owing to the late John Parry may be settled as soon as convenieht, and all Accounts against the late John Parry are to be forwarded to the above address. Flint, January 13th, 1864. Printed and Published by the Proprietors, JAMJiS DAVIES and EDWARD JONES DAVIES.