The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

"COUNTY TIMES" SHILLING W A ft FUND. We have pleasure in announcing that we have decided to open a Shilling Fund for the wives and families of the men serving their country in South Africa. Subscrip- tions of one shilling and upwards will be acknowledged in these columns, and the money sent to this office will be paid over to the Lord-Lieutenant's Fund. Those who prefer may give a weekly or monthly contribution so long as the war lasts. We invite our numerous readers in every part of the country to contribute to the fund. LIST OF SUBSCRIBERS. II. Amount previously acknowledged 82t The Misses Howell, Rhiewport (weekly) 3 E R Gillespie (weekly) 1

-+- INDEPENDENT UlDE OF ODD- FELLOWS. HALF-YEARLY MEETING AT ABERYSTWYTH The half-yearly Committee of the delegates appointed to represent the several lodges of the Abervstwvt1 district wai3 held at the Town Hall on Thursday morning. There were present-John Rees, grand master; J C Ivory, deputy grand master; r; P Vyn ne, district treasurer Dct DavieR, Prov CS; .1"(11\ Richards and D Philip Joties, audi- tors; P.G.'s Will Jones, St David's; D W Richards, Rheidul; Enoch Edwards, Temple of Love; Dd Jones, Earl of Lisburue; Thomas Owen, Druid; P.P.G.M. W D Jones, Cambrian P.G.'s Klias Jenkins, St John's; Dd Ellis, St Padarn's; P G. and P.S. Rhys Lewis, Llynlleoedd; P.P.G.M. Ed Jones, Dovev; P.G. and P.O. R H Jones, Gogerddan and P.G. Rd James, Iologoch Lodge. Bro E Li, Bell, Dovey Lodge, was appointed inside guardian P.G. Rhys Lewis and P.P.G.M. Ed Jones, right and left hand supporters of the Grand Master; and P.G.'s Ed Jenkins and W W Richards, right and left hand supporters of the Deputy Grand Master.— The Grand Master, delivering his address, said Looking back over the half-year that had passed, they had found that death had caused sad havoc in their midst, thirteen brothers and seven female members having uied, and this could not but affect their finances. In face of this strain upon their fil!:wee8, l18 hoped that aillnem\¡,r" would do their duty, exercise pi iseverance, and nlak,, O<H.critiee, and double their exertions ITI connection with all the lodges, especially in endeavouring to induce young members to join tlwir honourable and müst beneficial Order (applause). One matter to be considered was the resolution passed by the Board of Directors calling attention to the large number of brethren who had been called out to join the Reserve Forces in South Africa, and recommending each lodge and district to take steps to keep those brethren ill compliance from their benevolent 01' management funds. He (tile Grand Master) sympathised entirely with the spirit and broad principle contained in that resolution. He was glad to see that that brotherly love had such a brg-e place iu the minds of the Board, alld he hoped that the district would not be wanting in the same spirit (hear, hear).—Brother Davies, C.S said at the last meeting it was decided not to contribute to the testimonial being raised to Brother Tom Hughes, the Grand Master of the Unity. As he was almost the only Welshman who had sustained such a high position, he (Mr Davies) took the liberty of writing to the secretaries of the different lodges for voluntary contributions towards the testimonial, and altogether he received £2 2s (hear, hear, and applause). A pound was the sum it was proposed at the last meeting to contribute. He had received a letter thanking the Aberystwyth district for their handsome contribu- tion.—A somewhat warm debate took place as to whether it was advisable to send a delegate to the A.M.C.—On a division, the proposition to send a delegate was carried by nine votes to three.—In regard to the resolution of the Board of Directors re- specting the reservists who were'called out and were members of lodges, Brother William Jones proposed that each lodge should look after the members, if any, called out from that lodge.—Brother W D Jones seconded the proposition, suggestng that if the management fund of any lodge was insufficient the neces-ary amount should be made up by a collection —Brother Edward Jones supported the propositi and it was carried unanimously.—The election of officers then took place. D.G.M. Charles J Ivory was appointed to the office of grand master, P.G. and P.S. Edward Evans, Temple of Love Lodge, was appointed deputy grand master and P.G. Thomas Griffiths district auditor. Bros E P Wynne and George Thursby were appointed relieving officer and examiner re- spectively. The twelve arbitrators were re- appointed with the exception of Bro Edwd Evans, in whose place Mr Enoch Edwards was appointed. The auditors' report was read, from which it ap- peared that the number ot" members entitled to benefit was 1,871, and the number owing less than twelve months' contribution 1,870. Bro Dd Davies, C.S., was appointed a. delegate to the annual meeting of the A.M.C.—The delegates afterwards attended a dinner provided at the Talbot Hotel by ¡'1 I' and Mrs J ones, and over w hieh Councillor it Peake presided. An excellent dinner was pro- vided.—In giving the toast of the "Queen and the rest of the Royal Family," the Chairman said that all their sympathies at the present moment turned to the aged Queen and the rest of the Royal family. If it were not for the Queen and her Royal family England would not be the country it was at the present time. They were all Radicals and Cun. servatives, but when it came to the point they were all united (cheers). — The toast was loyally drunk and the company sang God save the Queen."—Mr Wynne said he had received a telegram from Councillor T E Salmon who was detained in Cardiff. A letter was received from Councillor R J Jones who had been called away, also Mr Tom Griffiths, district trustee, was away in the country, Bro Hugh Hughes, trustee of the Padarn Lodge, was unable to be present as was also Bro John Morgan, J.P., timber merchant.— The Chairman then gave the toast of the Man- chester Unity of Oddfellows." 113 was told that the past year had been one of the most successful to the benefit societies in the whole of the kingdom (hear, hear). He found that at the present time the balance ir. hand of the Oddfellows amounted to £10,000,000 (cheers). In addition to that there was an increase of 10,000 members (hear, hear). But it was not the money that they regarded as the chief thing, but the unity, the good feeling of man to man, the pledge to help, to succour, and help for- ward the brothers in need of existence. He coupled wich the toast the name of Mr E P Wynne, treasurer.—Mr Wynne briefly acknowledged the toast.— Song, Mr James, Penrhyncoch; song, Tommy Atkins," Mr Cooke (excise officer).—The Chairman then gave the toast of Aberystwyt h and District Lodges." During the preceding year the lodges had increased their- fund" by £ 100 and the membership by 50 (hear, hear). For a small com- munity like Aberystwyth that was as great an advancement as that which was made in larger centres. He was very pleased to be amongst them that day. He had been a member of the Odd- fellows Society some years ago, and he could assure them that no man in the country appreciated and had more sympathy with the friendly society move- ment (hear, hear). He coupled with the toast the names of Mr Ivory, G.M., Mr E Evans, P.G.M., and Mr David levies, C.S.—Songs, Mr James, Talybont, and Mr D Philip Jones, Machynlleth.—In reply to the toast, Mr Ivory, G.M., thanked thorn for appointing him Grand Master for the year. He was afraid they had a lot of disagreeable work to perform duriug the next year, and they would have to buckle to. This would include the revision of the scale. It was a well known fact that there was scarcely a friendly society in the country which was in a solvent con- dition. The majority had been shown to be insol- vent. They thought that the actuaries had overload- ed the tables. But they must remember that in addition to the fact that interest had gone down very much, they must remember that the members were getting old, and therefore a larger percentage were liable to come on the funds of the lodges. The funds were increasing, and the number of members was also increasing, but notwithstanding this the actuaries declared that they were insolvent. Therefore it would be the duty of the delegates to persuade the lodges to revise the scale.—Brother Evans, vice-chairman, also responded and expressed the belief that the district lodges ought to unite in subscribing to keep up the payments of the men who were members of the lodges, and who were called away to the front.-W David Davies, C.S., thanked the delegates for having appointed him their representative to the A.M.C. As Brother Evans had said, the position of the sick and funeral funds of the district was rather backward, but the expense of attending the A.M.C. did not come oat of this fund but out of the management fund, and most of the lodges were in a good position as regards this district. He felt they ought to be supported better by the trades- men both of town and country for it was well known that the Friendly Societies relieved the poor rate to a large extent. As to the state of the lodges in the district it was true that the younger lodges were far better off than the older lodges, but this was not the fault of those who had the older lodges under their control at the present time so much as it was due to the careless- ness and the profligate way in which their fore- fathers dealt with the funds of the lodges (hear, hear). No district in Wales would compare financi- ally with theirs (applause). He desired to point out that other lodges better off than their's were able to obtain grants of £ 25, zC30, and £ 50 towards the funds, and whilst they paid X4 per year towards the relief fund they got nothing in return. He therefore urged upon the delegates the real need of having a representative at the A.M.C. who could be heard and their application for relief properly treated (hear, hear). Wales had been greatly honoured by the appointment of Mr Tom Hnghes, of Llanelly, as Grand Master. He had only to mention that Mr Hughes reached that position after three years on the Board of Directors and they ought to be proud of it (applause). In that district there were twelve lodges having 1,900 members—(hear, hear)—but in the vjpw of the actuaries they were insolvent. He did not believe in the Board of Directors retaining all the spare cash in their hands for investment and felt that if the local lodges were allowed to invest tb" money they would be able to do so with much advantage. As to old age pensions he was afraid that the present war had thrown it back further than ever. He entirely agreed with Mr Evans that the district as a whole ought to support those lodges who were called upon to contribute towards the support of the Reservists called to the front (hear, hear).- Bro E P Wynne, J.P., gave the health of Bro John Rees, P.G.M. He thought that the occasion should not be allowed te pass by without doing something in support of the Reservists and he suggested that they should make a collection in aid of the Widows and Orphans Daily Telegraph Fund (hear, bear).- A collection was made by the Chairman and 33s was subscribed to which Mr Wynne added his 10s expenses allowed for the day.—Song, That is what an Englishman is made of" the Chairman.— Bro Rees having responded Mr Enoch Edwards gave a recitation.—The toast of the Host and Hostess" was given by the Chairman and res- ponded to by Mr Jones. The Chairman then gave the toast of the Press" which was acknowledged by Mr J D Spenoer (our representative).—Bro Ivory gave the toast of the "Chairman" which was cordially received'and the proceedings closed with the singing of the National Anthem.

— ——-— 5TH VOLUNTEER BATTALION THE SOUTH WALES BORDERERS. REGIMENTAL ORDERS By LIEUTENANT-COLONEL E. PRYCE-JONES, M.P., Commanding. Headquarters, Newtown, 13th January, 1900. STRUCK OFF.—The undermentioned are struck off the strength of the Battalion B Co, 682 Pte W Jones and 683 Pte T Williams; C Co, 131 Pte Edwards, 113 Pte Evans, aud 150 Pte Hughes E Co, 550 Pte J Jones, 495 Pte Roberts, and 552 Pte Trow. ENROLMENTS.—The undermentioned having been enrolled at the stations named are taken on the strength of the Battalion, posted to Companies, and allotted Regimental numbers as stated against their names:—"A" Co (Newtown), 690 Charles P Challiner and 691 lorwerth Davies "C" Co (Welshpool), 695 ;Georg-e Purcell, 696 Alfred E Baines, 697 Richard H Parry, 698 Edward G Row- lands, and 699 John Henry Beadles. SOUTH AFRICA INSURANCE. The Commanding Officer guarantees to insure for ClOO the life of every married man of the Battalion going out, and of every single man whose relatives are dependent upon him at home, during the continuance of the war, conditionally that the same be secured in trust or to purchase an annuity for those entitled to it in case of death. FIELD PRACTICE ASSOCIATION.-The following are prize winners in Match" A" (seven volleys and seven rapid independent) :-Best Section in each Company: No 1 Section, "A" Co, Sergt Breese, 68 points No 2 Section, B Co, C-Sergt J M Jones, 62; No 2 Section, "C" Co, Sergt Gwynne, 60; No 4 jSection, "E" Co, C-Sergt Astley, 62 and No 3 Section," F Co, Sergt Hughes, 32 points. Best Company, A" or Capt W E Pryce-Jones's Company, 260 points. No 1 Section, Sergt Breese; No 7 Section, Sergt Locke; No 3 Section, C-Sergt Whalley and No 2 Section, Sergt Breese. The Battalion wins the Brigade prize with 845 points. DIVINE SERVICE. A" and "B" Cos will parade for Divine service to-morrow at the Armoury (weather permitting) at 10 30 a.m. Band and buglers to attend. SOUTH AFRICA.—The rifle ranges will be open from 1 p.m. to-morrow for those men who are desirous of proceeding to South Africa and are not first-class shots. As the Section must be made up at once this opportunity should not, be lost. CERTIFICATE. — At an examination held in Novem- ber last, Major and Hon Lieut-Col G A Hutchins, V.D., was awarded a certificate for" Military Engineering," dated Devonport, 10th January, 1900. By Order, C WALKER, Captain, Adjutant 5th V.B. South Wales Borderers.

WATTLESBORO'. INVITATION DANCE.—This popular event took place in the Schoolroom, on January 4th, under the patronage of Lady Leighton. A select company assembled and dancing was very actively carried on until 4 a.m. The band supplied by Mr F Brant, Shrewsbury, gave very satisfaction. The room was very tastefully decorated by the members of an energetic committee composed of the follow- ing gentlemen Dr A Bradshaw, Messrs E Bowdler, J Bowdler, C Davenport, T B Davenport, C Powell, G Quin, M Wilde and W H Thomas. Much assist- ance was rendered to the committee by Mrs A Bradshaw, Mrs W H Thomas and Miss Rogers. The dance was generally considered to be one of the most successful and enjoyable yet organised by the committee.

CHIRBUJJY. PRESENTATION TO MR BREEDEN.—On Monday evening Mr William Breeden was the recipient of a nice present in the form of a walking stick aud a small purse of gold from the Foresters of the local court. For the last 20 years Mr Breeden has been the secretary of Court lion Herbert (1650) A.O.F., and on his resignation becoming known it was resolved to show some token of regard in appre- ciation of the able services he had rendered to the Club. A committee, with Bro E W Tudor as hon secretary, was formed and a subscription list opened, with the result that a substantial walking-stick, inscribed "To W Breeden, from Chirbury A.O.F., and a small purse of gold, was presented to him by Bro D Watkin, P.C.R. Several members of the club were prevented from being present by sickness, and Mr Breeden himself was in very indifferent health.—Bro D Watkin made the presentation in a few well-chosen re- marks, and Mr Breeden very suitably returned thanks.—Among those present were Bros W J Worley, new sec.; E W Tudor, acting sec.; T Oliver, J H Whittingham, W It Shaw, W Whit ting- ham, D Watkin, &c.-At the regular monthly court meeting several members spokg in high terc.s of Mr Breeden's valuable services to the club.

LLANFAIR. THE WAR.—The keen interest tl.at the people of Llanfair take in the war will be doubled now that four of the Lianfair Volunteers have been selected for service in South Africa. The men are C-Serg» Astley (who will take the rank of Sergt), Cpl D Jones (to be Pte), and Ptes T II Watkin and R White. CHILDREN'S TREAT.—Through the kindness of Mr and Mrs Davies of Tipton and Tynyfawnog, the scholars of the National School were each treated to a mince pie, orange and New Year's card. The school walls are also improved by mottoes, &c., sent by Mr Davies. Hearty cheers were given for Mr and Miss Davies, whose kindness was fully appreciated.

LLANERFYL. PLYGAIN. A Plygain was held at the parish church on Monday evening the 8th, when the rector read the service after the service the con- gregation were entertained by carol singing by parties from Llanerfyl, Llangadfan, aud the Cwm- llwynog party. All sung in their best style which was much appreciated.

1 LLANFYLLIN. MYLLIN LITERARY SOCIETY.—A mock Board of Guardians election was held at the last meeting" The returning officer was Mr D J Pryce. There were two candidates for one vacancy. After being nominated, the candidates Messrs C E Palser and E M Watkins gave addresses, which were followed by others from supporters. The result of the poll- ing was Palser, 12; Watkins, 7. A capital meet- ing was held. INTERMEDIATE EDUCATION.—A meeting of the local Governors of the Llanfyllin County School District was held in the Town Hall yesterday evening when the following were present: Mr j Marshall Dugdale (chairman), the Rev T Jones (Rector), the Rev J C Jones, Messrs E Watkins, J G Williams, and Wm Jones with Mr Ellis Roberts, clerk.—Tenders were received for fitting up the laboratory, and it was decided, on the motion of Mr W Jones, seconded by Mr J P Williams, to accept the tender of the North of England School Furnising Company, as recommended by the architect.—The Ladies' Committee reported having visited the boarding houses and found them satisfactory, with one exception, which had since been satisfactorily arranged.—Referring to the opening ceremony of the New Schools, which are likely to be ready about April, it was unanimously decided, on the motion of Mr J Marshall Dugdale (chairman), seconded by Mr E Watkins, tha Lord lelJdd be asked to open the new buildings. BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—THURSDAY. Present: Mr Will Roberts (chairman), Captain D H Mytton, Messrs John Jones, Geo Kempster, D Evans, John Rees, R H Jones, J Lloyd Jones, Wm Jones, J Payne Owen, Thos Roberts, E Davies, J Edwards, David Jones (Guilsfield), Dd Jones (Llan- wddyn), John Ashford, Evan Jones, Ellis Williams, Griffith Jones, and Edward Edwards, with Mr W A Pughe (clerk). MASTER'S REPORT. The Master being unable to attend, owing to ill- ness, his report was read by the Clerk as follows The inmates are very thankful to the Guardians for their Christmas dinner.—Air George Swain sent some rum for the old people, and Mr F W Martin, White Lion, kindly lent, them his gramophone. Mr and Mrs J Mirshall Dugdale have kindlv provided a football for the boys. Their usual entertainment for the inmates was post- poned owing to the prevalence of influenza. Miss Hayhurst kindly sent tobacco, oranges and apples for the men; tea, sugar, oranges and apples for the women and Santa Claus stockings, oranges and apples for the children. Mr J Lomax kindly sent tobacco and pipes for the men, scarfs for the women, dolls, a variety of toys, sweets and so forth for the children. And a. gentleman who did not wish to have his name mentioned had kindly sent 5s. to pay for tobacco for the old people."—On the motion of Mr William Jones seconded by Mr G Kempster the Guardians aeoorded a hearty vote of thanks to the ladies and gentlemen mentioned for their kindness. The number of inmates for the past week was 66, as compared with 71 for the corresponding week of last year. VOTE OF SYMPATHY. On the motion of Mr George Kempster, seconded by Mr William Jones, a vote of sympathy with the widow and family of the late Mr John Davies, relieving officer, was passed, the general feeling of the members being that the Board had lost a most worthy and faithful officer by the death of Mr Davies. THE NEW APPOINTMENT. Referring to the new appointment of relieving officer, Mr John Jones said he did not think they should start the new officer at the same salary as the old one. He did not consider it fair to do so. A yonng officer should start at a reduced salary, and he proposed that the salary be £ 60 instead of £70. This was seconded by Mr David Jones, Guilsfield, and carried.—Mr John Jones said they should not make these offices heirship appointments. They should advertise.—On the motion of Mr J Lloyd Jones, seconded by Mr D Jones, LlanwddJ n, it was decided to advertise for a relieving officer at a salary of E60, the appointment to be made at the next meeting of the Board.—On the motion of Mr J Lloyd Jones, seconded by Mr R H Jones, it was decided to re-appoint Mr J W Davies, son of the late Mr John Davies, who has been acting as deputy officer during his father's illness, to carry on the work for another month. THE MASTER. The Medical Officer of Health (Dr F F Jones) wrote certifying that the Master was suffering from influenza and bronchitis and had been unable to perform his duties for the last twelve days. ENOCH BAILEY. The boy, Enoch Bailey, an inmate at the Work- house, was some weeks ago brought before the magistrates charged with stealing a watch, the property of the porter at the Workhouse. After full particulars of the case had been furnished to the authorities at Stoke Farm, and they wrote agreeing to take the boy in, the justices decided to commit him to the Stoke Reformatory. A letter was now received from the Home Office stating that the Secretary of State decided to inform the justioeig that he had no other alternative but to order the discharge of the boy as he was not under legal detention, it being illegal to send a boy under twelve years of age to a Reformatory School on a first conviction.—The Secretary at Stoke Farm wrote stating that they thought the boy was likely to benefit by the discipline at Stoke and they were sorry to have to turn him adrift.—The Guardians decided to ask them to keep him for a short time until arrangements were made to transfer him if possible to an Industrial School. RURAL DISTRICT I OUNCIL.—THURSDAY. Mr John Jones, Varchoel, presiding. A letter was read from the Local Government Board sanctioning the re-appomtment of Dr F Felix Jones as medical officer of healtli.-Lianfair Parish Cout cil wrote drawing attention to certain footpaths and foot-bridges. The District Council were willing to consider footpaths which were for the use of the general public, but where the foot- path is only used by a few local people, they thought it the duty of the Parish Council to attend to it.—Another letter was read from Llanfair Parish Council, referring to the road men, was allowed to lie on the table, the Surveyors (Messrs Hole and Storer) stating that they had received no complaiuts at all from the men.— Mr J P Griffiths reported that he hrd inspected the canal boats. There were 23 of them, and they all conformed to the regulations. He found there were seven children belonging to them who did not attend school. He was powerless to act, as they were not. in his district. WELSHPOOL AND LLANFAIR RAILWAY. In pursuance of notice given at the last Board, Mr J Llovd Jones moved that the resolutio n of 18th March, 1897, be varied to the extent following That the sum of £1,600 be advanced to the Weishpool and Llanfair Light Railway Company on terms set forth in the agreement in writing to be entered into by the said Company and the Conncil." This was seconded by Mr David Evans and agreed to. SURVEYOR'S REPORT. Mr Store!, the surveyor, reported having in- spected the draiu in front of the chapel and cottages at Bwlchycibau. He could not recommend the Council to pipe more than 74 feet of this drain as there is a certain amount of rock opposite the chapel, and should the pipes be laid without sufficient covering they would all be broken by heavy weights. It was agreed to pipe the 74 feet as suggested. Mr Wm Roberts's offer to give the team labour was accepted.—The Surveyor reported that the culvert near Abernant had been corn pleted. He also reported that the large stone placed on the VVaenfach road in Llansantffr.iid Deytheur by Mr Jones, Trewvlan, had been broken. That the Horse Bridge at Peutre Ucha, Pennant, had been completed at a cost of 115 12s. That Mr Benbow, the tenant of Brynmawr, objects to the widening of the road, between Trefnauny and Brynmawr, en the upper side as it will interfere with the gateway which leads into his field. This question was deferred.— The expenditure for the last month was: — Manual labour, C60 lis 8d team labour, £ 1 16s materials, £61 7s 10d total £ 123 15s 6d. The Meifod Parish Council wrote drawing attention to a footbridge in Gwae'.od field which required a hand rail. The Surveyor said this had been attend- ed to. He also drew attention to the footbridge over the brook on the path leading from Coedcow- ryd to Forge Farm, to the main road. The Surveyor was instructed to make enquiries as to this.

BUTTINGTON. CONCKRT.—A very successful concert in aid of the County War Fund was given in Buttington school on Thursday evening. The room was filled to its utmost capacity, despite the drizzling rain and the influenza epidemic. The programme was excellent and well sustained. There were two re- grettable changes owing to illness. Miss Morris was prevented in this way from singing, and Mr Craven from giving 'cello solos. All the artistes were well received and encored. Among those present were Mr and Mrs T Morgan-Owen, Misses Morgan-Owen, Mr M and Master Gurth Morgan- Owen, Mrs and the Misses Roberts, Pool Quay Vicarage; Misses Jones, Gungrog; Miss Oakley, Miss Watts, Miss Edwards, Miss Powell, Miss Wil- liams, Miss Davies, Mr and Mrs Price and Miss Lizzie Price, Bryntirion Rev Merlin Davies, and the Vicar. Mr T Morgan-Owen discharged the duties of chairman and conductor in a manner that left nothing to be desired. He alluded to the present war, and declared amid loud cheering that as we had put down slavery among the blacks of America so would we put down slavery among the whites of Africa." The Vicar thanked those who had taken part in the proceedings, with. out forgetting those who would have done 80 were they able. Mr Morgan-Owen deserved well of them for presiding and for defraying all the expenses incidental to that concert and that of the following evening at Tre wern, so that all the money realised by the sale of tickets should be given to the "County War Fund" and the "Imperial Yeomanry Fund." Miss Oakley was not forgotten for kindly lending her piano Rose Evans, Annie Williams, and Fanny Kinsey for selling tickets Messrs Pugh (Church Cottage), Sankey, Davies (Crossing), and Davies (Dragon), for preparing the school and carting the piano; Messrs Roberts (The Hope), and Roberts (Canal Cottage), for their services in the room. The following was the pro- gramme :-Piano solo, Miss Roberts duet, Who is Sylvia?" the Rev Merlin Davies and Mi M Morgan-Owen reading, the Rev D Stephens song, Rosemarie," Mr T M Price harp solo, March of the Men of Harlech," Miss Morgan-Owen; song, "11u!c Britannia," the Rev Merlin Davies; song, "The scent of the new hay," Miss Roberts song, Ellen Bawn," Mr Morgan-Owen harp solo. Miss Morgan-Owen; song, "Maid of Arcade," Mr T M Price; song, You's yo' daddy's darlin' Miss Roberts; song, "Variety," Sir M Morgan-Owen; I reading, the Rev D Stephens; song, "Tommy Atkins," the Rev Merlin Davies. Accompanists, Mrs Roberts, Miss Murgaa-Owen, and Mr T M Price.

MONTGOMERY. INTERESTING TO THE DISTRICT. One of the ladies who took part in a splendid effort for the Patriotic Fund at Knebworth House, Hertford- shire, the residence of Lord Strathcona was Miss Williams, who formerly lived at Stalloe, in this neighbourhood. While tableaux were being given on the stage Miss Williams sang lays illustrated by the tableaux. THE WAR.—The subject," Is the war justifiable P was debated at the meeting of the Mutual Improve- ment Society on Friday evening. Mr J Rowlands read a cleverly-compiled and able essay, in which he traced Cape Colony and the other South African provinces from the earliest days of their colonization. Mr Rowlands declared the war justifiable, and in the debate which ensued the Rev J G Oats, Messrs J McGavin, R Barker, R H Morris, J E Tomley, G H Bunner, P W Carter, and J Holloway also took the affirmative view, but Messrs J Davies, D Pryce, W Evans, and 11 W Carter expressed the negative opinion. Mr Rowlands capably replied to his critics, and cordial votes of thanks were passed to him for his paper, and to the Rev J G Oats, who made a capital chairman of the meeting. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.The annual meeting of this society was held on Saturday at the Town Hall. Mr N W Fairies-Humphreys presided over an attendance rendered somewhat sparse by the prevalent influenza and the inclement weather. The report of the society's auditor, Mr J E Tomley, upon the accounts for the year 1899 was read, showing the books and affairs to have been very capably managed. Votes of thanks were passed to the retiring president, the chairmen of committees, and all who "had assisted in the show. This year's show was fixed forJThursdav, August 30th. Mr C E Howell, Rhiewport, was elected president; the vice-presidents, treasurer (Mr J M Jones), and secretary (Mr C H Bright), were re-elected, and the following appointed local secretaries f Mr Ed Jones, Rhiewport, Berrievv Mr Wroughton, Llan- dyssil Mr R Morris, Chirbury; Mr J P Williams, Penybryn, Churchstoke; Mr W Rogers, Penylan, Forden.

BETT\VS. A TEA and entertainment in connection with the Sunday School, were held in the New School on Monday. The attendance at both was good consid- ering the unpropitious weather. The tea was provided by Miss Morris, Top Shop, and Mrs Jones, Cwmdockin, presided. The entertainment consisted of songs, recitations, solos, &c., rendered by members of the Sunday School, assisted by choir members. At the close a collection was made in aid of the prizes, and the National Anthem was sung, Mr William Jones leading.

WORTHEN. FORESTER'S FUNERAL.—On Friday a number of members of Court Kynaston assembled at Hampton, the late residence of Mr G Butler, an old member of the Court, to show their last token of respect to him. The address at the house was read by D.C.R. Bro E P Speake. The service at the church was performed by the Rev H J Jerrom, after which D.S. Bro T J Jones read the address at the grave.

BISHOP'S CASTLE. NEW YEAR'S TREAT AT THE WORKHOUSE.—The New Year's treat, which is provided by donations from the Guardians, gentry of the district, and tradespeople of the town, was held on Friday w-ek, and was a grand success. A numerous company attended to assist in the festivities. Prior to the supper, a most pleasing concert was given in the dining room, which was prettily decorated, and in one corner of the room was a nicely-decorated Christmas tree. Amongst the items on the pro- gramme was The Absent-Minded Beggar," given by the Botfield family, which was well rendered. After the disposal of the articles on the tree to the inmates, an adjournment was made to the kitchen, where supper was served. At the close, mince pies, sweets, nuts, and oranges were given to the women and children and tobacco to the men. The whole of the arrangements were admirabiy carried out by Mr and Mrs A G Spire, the master and matron, and Miss Bethell, their assistant. After- wards a dance was held for the visiting friends and helpers. Light refreshments were provided, and a most enjoyable time spent. COUNTY PETTY SESSIONS—FRIDAY WEEK. Before Messrs R Jasper More, M.P., W E Garnett- Botfield, W F Plowden, A E Barratt and A H Sykes. MATRIMONIAL TROUBLES.—Thomas Coles, a shoe- maker, residing at Gunridge, Clunbury, was charged with assaulting his wife, Annie Coles, on Sunday and Monday, November 19th and 20th.— Mr C S Pryce, Montgomery, appeared in support of the summons, and Mr E L Wallis, Hereford, for the defence.-ilir Pryce, having briefly opened the case, called the complainant who said that she had been married to the defendant about 16 years. The greater portion of that, time be had refused to find her and her three children proper food and she had when they lived at Brockton, to frequently apply to her parents and other relatives and friends for food for herself and children. Last Lady-day they re- moved to a cottage of her husband's, near the vil- lage of Clunton, where she frequently had to apply to her neighbours for food. On the Sunday in question, 19th Nov., she and her childreu wen: to church, leaving the defendant in bed. On her return she found the door locked against them, and waited about the roads for 1 and 2 hours, when a neighbour, Mrs Canty, asked them to go in and have.eom.e tea arid they did so. After tea they found that the door was unfastened, went upstairs and asked him for the key of the back door to get some fuel for a fire, and he refused to give it to her and beat her about the head and shoulders with his jacket. She had to leave the room and he followed her to the door. She went to Mrs Canty's and asked to be allowed to stay that night. She kindly provided them with a bed. On the Monday morning Mrs Coles went into the house and found the defendant sitting by an empty fire place. She again asked for the key and he refused. She tried to lift the door off its hinges but failed, and defendant rushed at her, struck her above the eye inflicting a scar. He also banged her head against the wall, causing a lump to form on her ear, her arm also was bruised. She afterwards went to Brockton with her children, and showed the marks to her mother.— Iu cross-examination by Mr Wallis nothing material was elicited. Mr v'vallis asked the complainant if she would not go home with her husband that day, as there was the house for her. — Her reply was that she would not. The house was there but nothing to eat.—Corroborative evi- dence of the assault was given by Mary Coles (daughte"), an intelligent girl of 11 years, and of the bruises by complainant's mother, Mrs C Woos- nam, of tirt)ckton.-The defendant went into the box and gave a denial to his wife's statement, stating that she was the aggressor. He denied not having provided sufficient food.— After a short consultation the Bench considered the charges proved, and fined the defendant 25s, including oosts, or distress to issue. A CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTOR.— Mr T Powell- Davies, Folly Farns, Lydbury North, applied for, and was granted, an exemption under the Vaccina- tion Act. ———— CASTLE CAEREINION. TESTIMONIAL'—It is intended to give a testi- monial to Mr and Mrs Tole, in the shape of a purse of gold, on the occasion of their leaving Castle for Welshpool. The presentation will take place on January 26th, when a tea will be held for the children, old scholars, and subscribers of half-a- crown and upwards. Mr and Mrs Tole have, during their residence at Castle, earned the respect of the people of the neighbourhood and the school has been raised to a high standard.

GLOBE FURNISHING UWUU COMPANY, 12 TO 18, PEMBROKE PLACE, LIVERPOOL. FURNISH FOR CASH, OR ON OUR SPECIAL HIRE-PURCHASE SYSTEM AT CASH PRICES. NOTE.-Our Hire-Purchase System is entirely dif- ferent from any other, and has been highly commended by the whole of the local Press. NO SECURITY REQUIRED. NO EXTRA EXPENSES ON OUR HIRK-PURCHASE SYSTEM. The fair and equitable manner in which our business is carried on, and our reasonable terms and low prices are so well known throughout the North of England and Wales as to render further comment unnecessary. rji E II M S — WE GIVE OUR CUSTOMERS THE PRIVI- LEGE OF ARRANGING THEIR OWN TERMS OF PAYMENT, AS THEY KNOW BEST THE AMOUNT THEY CAN CONVENIENTLY AFFORD TO PAY EACH WEEK OR MONTH. ALL GOODS WE SELL ARE DELIVERED FREE TO ANY PART OF THE UNITED KINGDOM. Private Vans if required, no charge will be made. An inspection of our stock will at once satisfy ntending purchasers that we give better v.due any other house furnishers on the hire-purchase system in the Provinces. FURNISH FOR CASH, OR ON nUit HIRE- PURCHASE SYSTEM AT CASH PRICES. Our New Prospectus, Large Illustrated Catalogue, Press Opinions and Price List sent Post Free on application. f; { A Ut K! furnishing UAAJuHi COMPANY, 12 TO IS, PEMBROKE PLACE, LIVERPOOL. (J. R. GRANT, Proprietor), Business hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m

PREACHERS FOR TO-MORROW. NOTE.—Information for this list is invited. It ia supplied in every case when it is communicated to us. ABERYSTWYTH.—S.S. Michael's and All Angels' Parish Church, 11 a.m., and 6.30 p.m. St. Mary's (Welsh), 11 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. Holy Trinity Church, near Railway Station, 11 a.m., and 6.30 p.m. Presbyterian Church, Bath street, 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. English Baptist Church, 6 p.m. Shiioh Chapel, 10.30 a.m. and 6 p.m. NEWTOWN.—Llanllwchaiarn, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. All Saints', 11 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. English Cal. vinistic Methodist, Crescent, 10.30a.m. and 6 p.m. Primitive Nleiliodist, Park Street, 10.30 a.m. and 6 1).111. English Congregational, 11 a.m. and 6. p.m., Hev J Hugh Edwards. Wesleyan, 10.30 a.m. and 6 p.m., Rev J Davies. Baptist, 10.30 a.m. and 6 p.m., Rev T E Williams. MONTGOMERY.—St Nicholas, 11 a.m., and 6.30 p.m., Rev E W Brown. Presbyterian, 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wesieyaa 11 a.m., aud 6 p.m., Mr Bright. Baptist, 10.30 a.m. aud 6 p.m., Rev C P Thomas. CHURCHSTOKE.— Wesleyan Church, 10-30 a.m., and 6.0 pm., itev J Tesseyman, BERRIKW.—Presbyterian, 10.30 a.m., 2.30 (Welsh) and 6.30 p.m. Wesleyan, 10.30 a.m., and 6.15 p.m., Mr Edwards. G,o, RT H'NFY L. -Provide ii cc, 10.30 a.m., and 6.30 p.m., Mr R Grindley., WELSHPOOL. Wesleyan, 10.30 a.m., Rev J Goodrich Oats, and 6.30 p.m., Mr R Powell. Pres- byterian, 10.30 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. Congrega- tional Church, 11 a.m., and 6-30 p.m., Rev D B Evans. Baptist, 11 a.m. and 6.30 p.m., Rev T Rowson, pastor. Primitive Methodist, 11 a.m., Mr Williams, Salop Road, and 6.30 p.m., Mr D Jones. Welsh Independent, High Street, 10.30 a.m., and 6.30 p.m., Rev D Morgan. MIDDLKTOWN. — Wesleyan Church, 10-30 a.m., and 6-30 p.m., Mr Pugh. DEEP CUTTING (Pool Quay). Wesleyan, 2.30 p.m. and 6.30 p.m., Rev J Goodrich Oats. LLANYMYNECH. Presbyterian Church, 10.30 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. OSWESTRY.—St Oswald's, 11 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. Holy Trinity, 11 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. The School Chapel, Upper Brook Street, 11 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. English Baptist, Sa'op road, 10.45 a.m. and 6.30 p.m., Rev Malcolm Thomson. Presbyterian, Oswald road, 10.30 a.m. and 6.30 p.m., Rev John Roberts, Wrexham. Seion Chapel, 10.30 a.m., and 6.30 p.m., Rev Richard Edwards, Cemmaes. Welsh Wesleyan Methodist, 10.45 a.m and 6.30p.m. Hermon Chapel, 10.30 a.m., and 6.30 p.m. Christ Church, 10.45 a.m., and 6.30 p.m. St. David's Welsh Church, 11 a.m., and 6 p.m. Moriah Chapel. English Weslevan, 10.45 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. i

• ) PERSONAL. Captain A Wynne Corrie is acting as Assistant Adjutant to the Shropshire contingent of the Imperial Yeomanry at Shrewsbury. The name of Mr Hugh B Mostyn Pryce, eldest son of Mr E S Mostyn Pryce, Ganley, appears 32nd in the list of successful candidates for the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, on Saturday last. Mr Mostyn Pryce gained 7,677 marks. There were over 600 competitors for the examination, out of whom 164 were successful.

--+-- HINTS TO ADVERTISERS. THEY NEVER DIE. That ad. is dead," said the foreman. Throw it in." But it was not dead. It could not die until the last copy of the paper containing it had been destroyed. Even then the advertisement might be kept alive by word of mouth. The advertiser who lets all his contracts expire is wrong if he imagines that his advertisement has long since ceased to pull," says an American exchange. They may, indeed, have failed to bring in business enough to pay the gas bill, but they are far from dead. Fourteen or fifteen years ago, a bright young man opened a bookstore in Harlem. He put a small advertisement in a magazine. To this day, he sometimes hears from the advertisement, al. though he ran it only a few times and has been out of the book trade ever since 1892. A story is told of a medicine man who advertises to cure diseases. One day a woman came to him for treatment, and got £ 10 worth of it. The doctor asked her how she had heard of him, and she said her husband, when taking up an old carpet in Buffalo, had found beneath it an old newspaper in which he saw the doctor's ad. There's no telling how long an advertisement will live.

--+- FORTHCOMING EVENTS. JANUARY. 18 Inspection of Army Remounts at the Raven Repository, Shrewsbury, 18 Annual Meeting of th Montgomery District Independent Order of Oddfellows at Public Hali, N ewtown, 19 A Social Evening at the Schoolroom, Castle Caereinion, 20 A New Tale, The Crowning of Esther" will appear in the COUNTY TIMES, 23, 24 & 25, Frank Lloyd and Sons' Horse Sales at Wrexham, 24 Sale of Leasehold Property at the Lion Royal Hotel, Aberystwyth, by Mr J E James, 24 Sale of Property at the Mart, Token-house Yard, E.C., by Messrs Robins, Gore, & Mercer. FEBRUARY. 7 Llanidloes District Ploughing Matches, 15 Trewern Annual Dance, 22 Montgomery Cricket Club Annual Dance.

BIRTHS, MARRIAGES 8f DEATHS DEATHS. DIOGORY.—On January 7th, at Kingswood, Forden, Margaret, wife of William Diggorv, aged 76. GRAYENOR.—On January 6th, at Dysserth, Welsh- pool, George Buckley Giavenor, youngest son of Richard and Mary Gravenor, aged 25. HARDING.—On January 11th, at Lower Mill, Buttington, George Edward, son of John and Edith Harding, aged 7 months. Printed and published by SAMUEL SALTER and DAVID ROWLANDS, at their Printing Office, 21, Berriew Street, Welshpool, in the County of Montgomery. Also published by J. DENLEY SPENCER, at their Branch Ottice, Chalybeate St., Aberystwvth, in the County of Cardigan.— January 13h 19CO.