The North Wales Express

Beddgelert light Railway At a special meeting of the Portmadoc Ur- ban Council, held on Monday, the application of the promoters of the Portmadoc, Bedd- gelert, and Rhyd-ddu Light Railway for the loan of £ 1750 was one? more heard. There were present Messrs R. M. Greaves (chair- man), D. Morris, R. Isaac, R. Newell, David Williams, R. Price Lewis, G. Roberts, John Hughes. Ebenezer Robert-, William Wil- liams, Henry Roberts, J. Davies, Captain Morgan Jones. William Prichard, Dr Jones Morris, John Jones (clerk), J. D. Lewis (sur- veyor), and H. Hughes (assistant clerk). the Chairman, looking over the plans of the proposed railway, said that they were new plans altogether. The railway followed the Croesor Railway. Plans No. 1 were abandoned. The railway went to the bottom of Nantmor and joined at a cer- tain spot-above Pant-y-dwfr-oer Cottage, between Hafodllyn Cottage and the River,— instead of following the Croesor Railway '.rack. The plans and book of reference were there. Mr J. Davies asked for a copy of the last resolution. The Clerk said that it was in the minute book. The Chairman said that the estimate was £ 24,.720,—about £ 1000 more than the first estimate. That meant 4 per cent increase. Mr D. Morris: It includes the purchase money. Otherwise it would have been less. The Chairman: The sum asked as a loan is the same as last time. Any member was welcome to see the plans and estimate. The line would join ihe Croesor Railway on the other side of Ynysfor. The Chairman then described the course of the line from the har- bour, passing at the back of Ynysfor, to Pant- y-dwfr-oer. Dr Jones Morris A little beTow Wernlas. The Chairman The result was an increase of £1000. Perhaps he was wrong. Perhaps the purchase money was not included. Mr J. Davies said that the cost of con- structing the scheme had been reduced. The Chairman wanted to know what the amount of the purchase money was. The dra.ft order fixed the capital at £ 40,000. The Chairman then read formally the application for the loan of £ 1750. The application was signed by Messrs Richard Davies, A. Brom- wich, and J. R. Prichard, promoters. Dr Jones Morris asked whether those mem- bers of the Council, who were also promoters of the railway, could vote or not on the ap- plication ? The Chairman I shall allow the votes, but the members must take the risk. Mr D. Morris The Council can promote the railway themselves if they like. The Chairman I do not know the legal aspect of the question. I allow the votes. Mr J. Davies supported the chairman's ruling. Captain Jones What have we to consider to-day,—the new scheme or the old one ? The Chairman: I call it an amended scheme, as the points to be reached are the same. The route is altered. Captain Jones Will the County Council give a loan, seeing the railway goes now t6 Merionethshire ? The Chairman thought a new application wouldihave to be made. Mr D. Morris: That is a, matter for the county, not for us. Captain Jones The County Council pro- mised £.3ûOO under the other scheme. The Chairman This Council will take into consideration any money voted for the scheme. Mr Ebenezer Roberts: If we agree to lend, what is the security? The Chairman took it that the security would be the first charge on the receipts of the company, after paying for working the line. Mr Henry Roberts: Would not the Gov- ernment have the priority ? Mr J. Davies: No. The Government would be like any other public body advanc- ing money. Dr Jones Morris proposed that the depu- tation should be admitted. Mr R. Newell seconded. The motion having been passed, Messrs Wvatt (chairman of the Company), W. George, and C. E. Breese (solicitors of the Company), Richard Davies, and Thomas Roberts (engineers of the Company) en- tered. Mr Richard Davies introduced the depu- tation. and said that the Council had heard already all about the scheme. Perhaps the best course to be adopted would be for ques- tions to be asked, and for the deputation to answer the same. The Chairman asked where was their exact position as to security? Mr W. George It is in the nature mortgage. The Chairman Will it be like the security given to public bodies, private parties, and the Government 6ari passu ? Mr George Yes. The Chairman: Shall we have a prior claim? Mr George: No, pari passu. The Chairman: Is the capital to be £ 40,000? Mr Breese: We have borrowing powers up to E20, 000. Mr R. Davies said that half the capital was to cover the loans they were asking from the local authorities. If they got that amount they would exhaust their power. The Chairman Questioned the deputation regarding the £ 20,000. The promoters ex- pected £ 8250 from local authorities, but they could not as yet sav how much the Treasury would orive them, i-v; Mr W. George said that they expected to Y. get a' froie grant from the Treasury.. The Chairman asked if the' £ 20,000 was apart of the £ 40,000. Mr George: The capital is not to be over £ 40,000. The Chairman Is that all you can rais3 ? Mr George: Yes. The Chairman: Not £ 20,000 added to £ 40,000? Mr George: The E20,000 will be made up of £ 5000 from the County Council, R1750 from this Council, and £ 1500 from the Glas- lyn Council, and the balance from the Trea- sure. We cannot say whether the Treasury will give the money in the form of a free, grant, or partly as a free grant and partly as a loan. The amount would be made up in the same way. The Chairman You expect to get loans to £ 20,000 and then vou borrow the rest? You cannot exceed L40,000 as value of stock, &c. ? Mr George That is. my view. Dr Jones Morris: Do you expect the £20,000 to be given partly as free grants and partly as loans ? Mr George That is what we expect Dr Jones Morris showed! that the Treasury might give one-fourth as free grant and the rest as loan. Captain Jones: Do you intend asking the Merionethshire County Council for a loan ? Mr George No. The Chairman Will you ask the Deudraetli Council ? Mr Breese: No. The Chairman: Does the estimate include the purchase of Croesor Railway ? Mr George read the list. There were C5000 for roll,ing stock, £ 8000 for Croesor Railway, L2000 interest on capital pending the construction of the railway, preliminary expenses, legal and engineer, £ 1280; and then came other items, bringing up the total estimate tp £ 40,000. Mr R. Davies said there was a little over JB2000 for contingencies. The Chairman What would happen to the Company if the expenses exoeed the L40,000 ? Mr George: H e et our estimates before hand, in order that we may know where we are before starting. Mr Wyatt said that it was mostly a ques- I tion of principle than anything else for the present. Would the Council support the principle en certain conditions and allow the line to be made ? The Chairman: We have power to give on certain conditions, or not to give. Mr W. George The Treasury must have an existing railway company who is prepared to construct, work, and maintain the railway, before a grant will be allowed. Mr Breese: If we do not get the £ 20,000, we do not exhaust our borrowing power. We cannot say what we may get from the Trea- sury. Suppose we get the amounts men- tioned from the local councils, we shal! still have over tll,000 of our borrowing powers unexhausted. The Chairman: Is the total sum under those powers included in the E40,000? Mr Breese: We cannot say that £ 40,000 will cover all. We have power to raise £ 40,000. If we cannot get a frea grant we must borrow to that extent. The Chairman: We want to know how much of other people's money will you have ? We ought to know this. Mr It. Davies If we get JE8250 from local authorities and JE5000 free grant from the Treasury, that would leave us with jE6500 to be procured from private sources. We can- not go beyond the L20,000 loan. We shall ask the Commissioners to put our capital at L40,000, and include the borrowing powers of the Company in that sum. The Chairman: But will not the L20,000 and the C40,000 make £ 60,000? Mr R. Davies: That is no the intention of the promoters. Mr Wyatt: The extent of the company's capital is £ 40,000. That amount will be put in the draft, with power to raise E20,000 in the way of loans. The Chairman: And so the total will be £ 60,000. Mr Breese On the face of it, it is £ 60,000. Dr Jones Morris If you get the grant you will not go outside ? Mr R. Davies: Quite so. The Chairman But what are your borrow- ing powers. Mr R. Davies So far as the local authori- ties are concerned, £ 20,000 is the amount. If we tied our hands to £ 40,000 we would find ourselves in an awkward position. The Chairman That is the very point, and we want to know what we would get from the Company if we advanced the loan. Mr H. Roberts: Priv; ^te parties are on the same level as public bodies. The more the Company get the better for us. Mr R. Davies I think the Council is quite clear that the security will be a first charge, pari passu with other parties. The Chairman: Why change the name Portmadoc, Beddgelert, and Snowdon Rail way? Mr R. Davies Another railway company changed the name of its station from Rhyd- ddu to Snowdon, and the receipts wore doubled. The Chairman: Do you intend to go up Snowdon ? Mr W. George: Not at present. Mr R. Newell: What powers, if any, have we as to rates for carriage? Mr Berese Yov are entitled to a repre- sentation on the Board of Directors. The Chairman That is the only lever we have. Suppose the amount you ask as a loan is too little, will you ask for more? Mr R. Davies said that if they could not get from the Treasury what was wanted they might come before the Council to ask for more. But they had no intention of doing &0, Mr George read a letter from Mr Denniss, the maiiager of the Cambiran Railway Com- pall". which has already appeared. It stated that that Company were prepared to con- struct, work, and maintain the propcsed rail- way for GO per cent. of the receipts. Mr Wyatt said that he had seen Mr Den- niss, who had exrf-assed1 himself satisfied with everything so far, and he also said that the engineer of the Cambrian Railway would examine the nlan,s and the whole scheme shortly. The question of rebates was men- tioned to Mr Denniss, and as goods coming over the greater lines would have very little mileage along the proposed light railway, the matter would have to be considered. In case of disputes reqarding land, &c., they would be referred to arbitration. Dr Jones Morris You think 7C8000 for the Croesor Railwa" fair and reasonable ? Mr Wyatt: Yes, as we took certain per centage on the amount,and satisfied ourselves that the amount was reasonable. The Chairman It will save making an- other line. Mr R. Davies: It adds to the expense of the scheme. The Chairman: It adds £ 9000. Mr Isaac But we have more mileage for that amount. The Chairman It will pay you, I think. Mr R. Davies You put it the wrong way, I think. The Chairman: But I was looking at the estimate. Mr R. Davies: The Treasury will not ad- vance the money until chey are satisfied that the capital is secured. You will apply for power to advance the money. Mr J. Davies i We are to insert in the cr- tier the amount required. Mr R. Davies: The Council must make the application. A discussion followed as to the represen- tation on the Board of directors, and Mr George read the section of the Act dealing with tKe matter. The deputation was proceeding to with- draw, when the chairman said that the meet- ing was public. Mr George then said that they would avail themselves of their privilege as citizens, and stav in the meeting. Mr J. Davies moved that the application the granted, provided the Treasury made a substantial free grant, that the sum of £ 1500 was lent by the Glaslyn Rural Coun cil, and £ 5000 by the County Council, that the loan be the first charge, pari passu, with any loans made by other public bodies and the Treasury, and that the Council had a re- presentation on the Board of Directors. Mr E. Roberts: When will the money be paid back ? The Chairman: They will never be paid back. Only interest will be paid on the amount. Mr R. Newell seconded the proposal made bv Mr J. Davies. The following voted for the resolution Messrs J. Davies, W. Prichard, D. Williams, R Newell, G. Roberts, R. Isaac, D. Morri-, John Hughes, Dr Jones Morris, Henry Ro berts, and R. Price Lewis. The following did not vote:—The Chair- man, Messrs WjiUiam Williams, Ebenezer Roberts, and Captain Morgan Jones.

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CARNARVON UNDA Y SERVlC¡':S. SUNDAY SERVICES. I CHURCH OF ENGLAND. Vicar,—Rev J VV Wynne Jones, M A. Christ Church 8, Holy Communion 11, Matins 6-30, Even Song St. David's 10-30, Matins G, Even Song St. Mary's liev E H Griffiths, B.A, b-:0, Holy Communion l;>, Matins 6, Even Song Llanbeblig Rev E O Jones, B. A (curate) 10, Matins 6, Even Song BAPTIST. Caersalem Kev 0. Davies, D.D, 0ALVINT STIC METHODIST. Castle Square. Rev D Hughes, M.A. Moriah Rev Evan Joie;. Eii,edi 10, Rev J Evans, Llaufaircaereinion ° 6, Rev Hugh Hughes, Ebenezer. Shiloli 10, Lev Dr CynddyLm Jones; 2, Revs J Evans, LUnfair, and Joseph Jenkins, New Quay; 6, Revs J Evans and Dr Jones. Beulah Rev H D Rowland. COJfGKEGATIOJTAIiIST. Salem Rev D Stanley Jones. Peiidref Rev J Owen, Konkey. WESLEYAN. Castle stieet (English) Rev H J Quilter. Ebenezer Rev W H Evans (uwylit y Mynydd). ROMAN CATHOLIC St. Pet jr and Paul Kev. Father Jones. On Sunday a church parade of the Artil- lery and Rifle Volunteers took place at Christ Church. Complaints are heard that stones are being thrown by boys at rowing boats, and one gen- tleman is said to have been struck in the eye. Steps should be taken to put a stop to such a mischievous and dangerous practice. TRAP ACCIDENT.—On Saturday a market car from the neighbourhood of Nantlle narrowly escaped being precipitated into the new dock. The horse took fright, and having released itself from the car by violent kicking it ran away in the direction of the R.N.R. battery, but it was fortunately stopped before doing further mischief. Much damage was done to the vehicle, but the driver escaped unhurt. .RESCUED FROM DROWNING. On Sunday a young child of Maria Taylor, had a narrow escape from drowning. It ttp- peared that the child fell into the dock, but fortunately Mr Davies, hairdresser, of Pool street, happened to be close at hand, and he speedily rescued the child, who was in an exhausted condition. .¡.INCIPAL PRYS.—On Sunday, Prin- cipal Prys, of Trevecca College, who has greatly improved in health as the result of a visit to Egypt, preached to crowded con- gregation d, mornling and. evening, at the Moriah C.M. Chapel, both discourses being characterised by deep thought and learning. SUDDEN DEATH. — On Thursday morning, t.-o death took place suddenly of Mrs Anne Jones, wife of Mr J. Jones, 11, Crown street. The previous day the de- ceased was engaged at the Prince of Wales Hotel, where her husband, is employed, and returned home in the evening in her usual health, but At an eariv hour on the follow- ing day she was seized with sudden illness and expired. The funeral took place on Monday at Llanbeblig Churchyard. N.S.P.C.C.—A Carnarvonshire and An- glesey branch of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children has been established. The headquarters will be at Carnarvon, and it is understood that Inspec- tor Rowlands, now of Denbigh, will take up his residence here. The honorary secretary is Councillor R. O. Roberts, solicitor. As yet a president of the branch has not been appointed, but it. is hoped that Mr J. E. Greaves (the lord lieutenant), who takes A deep interest in matters of the kind., can be prevailed upon to undertake the presidency. NARROW ESCAPE FROM DROWN- ING.—Among those who were precipitated into the water by the collapse of a bridge at the launch of the "Albion" from a ship-I building yard were the Rev and Mrs Rees Jones, formerly of this town. Mr Jones, who is an excellent swimmer, succeeded in keeping his wife afloat for a time, when they became separated in the midst of drowning persons who made desperate efforts to save themselves from a watery grave. Mrs Jones when rescued was unconscious, but her husband, who was subsequently brought i to shore, did not appear to be much the worse for his immersion. ACCIDENTS TO CYCLISTS.—The other evening four cyclists, two of whom were scorchers, went for a "spin" into the coun- try. Each tried to out-pace the other, with the result that J.C." went into a ditch, and was thrown off his machine. Soon after "E.D." collided with another of the four, both being, knocked off their wheels. No sooner was the scene of the latter mishap left behind than "J.C." and "E.D." both of whom are old and daring riders, came into violent collision. The former fell, and bumped his knees against some stones, which he felt a bit hard. The other wheelmen, hearing a ciy, gathered round their comrade and helped him, limping as he Was, to mount his machine. With some difficulty he rode to town, "J.R.71 leading the way, and vowed that he would never again scorch. INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL.—A meeting of the governors of this school was held on Tuesday, ujider the presidency of Mr J. Is- sard Davies, M.A. (chairman). There were also present Rev J. E. Hughes, M.A., Messrs W. J. Williams, T. J. Lloyd, J. Men- zies, J. R. Pritchard, J. E. Williams, J. Da- vids (Gwyfieddon), and R. Norman Davies and Messts J. IWrof Otren,- M.A. (lféad ihaslet), J. H. Thomas (clerk), arid Rowland Lloyd Jones (architect).—Upon the reading of the minutes of the last meeting, Mr J. R. Pritchard asked how would the opening of the Petnygroes School affect the Carnarvon School. The Clerk replied that the latter school would lose a few of the scholars.—It was reported that the following vacancies on the body had been filled: Mrs Greaves and Mr W. G. Thomas as the representatives of the School Boards within the district; and Mr Thomas Jones, Waenfawr, as the repre- sentative of the Gwyrfai Rural District Council.-It was announced that Captain Stewart and Mr W. H. Wright had been no- minated to fill a vacancy to represent the managers of the, public elementary schools (other than Boards'). The voting papers had been sent out and the counting would take place on the following day.—On the motion of Mr W. J. Williams seconded by Mr J. Menzies, Mrs Jones (Minafon), and the Rev O. Davies, D.D., were re-appointed as co-optative members. The latter wrote stating that absence from home had inter- fered with his presence at the meetings of the body in the past, but if again elected he would endeavour to attend more regularly. The Building Committee reported that the Architect certified that the work of erecting the new school was pro- gressing satisfactorily, and that thp charac- ter of the work done was very good. The committee recommended the appointment of a clerk of works at a salary of two guineas a week, subject to his devoting his -,vhole time to the duties of the post, and suggested that the appointment be made on the re- commendation of the Architect. In the course of the discussion which followed sev- eral members took exception to the latter part of the committee's recommendation, and suggested that the post of clerk of works be advertised in the ordinary way. Eventually it was resolved, that advertise- toeftta be inserted in the newspapers, and that a meeting of the governors be held on Monday to consider the applications.-M-r R. Norman Davies asked whether arrange- ments had been- completed with regard to the laying of the memorial stones of the new school. The Chairman replied that a com- mittee had been appointed to take this mat- ter into consideartion.—Mr Davies suggested that means be adopted whereby additional subscriptions towards the new buildings could be secured, and added that he had been staggered by a. comparison between promises made and the fulfilments. The Chairman said that Mr Davies' suggestion would be brought before the committee. OBITUARY.—On Thursday, after a long and painful illness, the death took place of Mr Robert Henry Hughes, Tandinas, Llan- ddeiniolen. Mr Hughes was at one time very prominent in local musical circles. He was a member of the Carnarvon String Band, and an excellent choralist, and was always ready to give a helping hand to all charitable objects. The deceased, who was for many years employed at Messrs Owen and Son's Foundry, leaves a widow and one son. The remains were interred at Llanddeiniolen Church, the Rev D. O. Davies officiating. The service throughout was fully choral. A number of friends from Carnarvon attended the funeral, which was of a public character. BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—The fort- nightly meeting of the Board was held on Saturday, Mr T. W. Williams (chairman) pre- siding.—The Finiance Committee reported that a sum of tl490 was outstanding from the various parishes, Llanbeblig being re- sponsible for £ 541 and Llanddeiniolen for 1:469. The committee recommended that the overseers be pressed for payment, in order to enable the Board to meet precepts of il: 9D and t97 from the Carnarvon and Anglesey County Councils respectively.—The Rev o. Williams (chairman of the committee) pointed out that the Board was only just right at the bank, and they could not go any further without money.—Mr C. A. Jones complained of the conduct of the overseers, which he described as mere child's play, and Mr J. H. Bodvel Roberts moved that the overseers be called upon to pay the arrears within a fort- night. The motion was seconded and agreed to.—A committee appointed to con- sider how to apportion a sum of j680 which the guardians had previously resolved to subscribe from the rates for district nursing purposes, submitted a scheme whereby the money was to be equally divided among fotur districts, the same to be regarded as a sub- scription towards an association already es- tablished or about to be established, but, should there be no such association, that no contribution be made. It was further re- commended that the nurse in each district be subject to the direction of the medical officer and the relieving officer, and that the local guardians be ex-officio members of each local association.—Mr R. Bevan Ellis asked why the committee recommended that the smaller district of the Union should be apportioned a sum equal to the largest districts. Mr J. W. Roberts (Anglesey) pointed out that though the district where he resided was small the population was so scattered as to entail considerable labour in going frcm one place to another.—Mr T. Jones (Waenfawr) asked whether it was understood that the nurse established at Carnarvon was to be at the service of the inhabitants of Waenfawr? —The Clerk: Yes.—After remarks by Mr J. H. Bodvel Roberts and Mr W. J. Williams, it was resolved, on the motion of Mr C. A. Jones, that the report of the committee be adopted.—As an experiment until the end of the year, it was agreed, on the motion of Mr J. W. Roberts (Anglesey), to hold the meetings of the Board monthly instead of fortnightly.—On the motion of Mr G. Wil- liams, seconded by Dr Jones Roberts,, the Chairman was re-appointed to represent the Board oil the Penygrb^s Lofcal Governiiig Body of the Intermediate School. ■. BOROUGH MAGISTRATES' COURT.— On Monday, before the Mayor (Dr Parry), Dr Griffiths, Messrs Edward Hughes, J. R. Pritchard, and J. P. Gregory. REFUSING TO QUIT.—Edward Wil- liams, Hill street, was charged with being drunk on licensed premises, and refusing to quit. D.C.C. Harris prosecuted.—Evidence was given by constables 19 and 21 to the effect that on the 19th inst., they were called to the Harp Inn to turn defendant out. He was drunk at the time.—The defence was that there was a, dispute between him and the landlady of the house as to some change.— Defendant was fined 2s 6d and costs. DRUNKENNESS.—Robert Jones, Tan- ymaes, Portdinorwic, was ordered to pay the costs for drunkenness.—David Lewis, Bap- tist street, was fined 2s 6d and costs for being drunk and disorderly.—John O'Roon was fined 58 and costs for the same offence. COUNTY POLICE COURT.—On Saturday, before Captain WynnQ Griffith (chairman), Messrs JJ. Roberts, J. Davies, J. Menzies, D. P. Williams, J. Issard Davies, and Henry Parry. STRAYING.—Martha Williams, Cae- gwydryn, Deiniolen was charged with allow- ing her three cows to stray on the high road. She was fined Is and costs for each cow. NO LIGHT.:—John Roberts, Cefn, Bethel, was fined Is and costs for cycling at night through Portdinorwic without any light. ASSAULT CASE.-Griffith Owen, of the Goat, Llanberis, and his next-door neighbour, Thomas Parry, appeared in court with their heads covered with sticking plaster. The former summoned Parry for assaulting him. Mr Carter appeared for complainant, and Mr Allanson for de-fendant.-In opening the case Mr Carter said that on Saturday, the r 18th iAst. y his cent. waA going home from f Llanberte a.bont nhSff o'clock. On the way,- ■he in^t defendant talking to some other men. Comolainant passed on, and after he had gone some distance, defendant overtook him, and alluding to a case heard! before the magis- trates that morning, said that nothing would have been heard of it only for him (the com- plainant). Without saying anything further he struck him in the head with a staff. Com- plainant received such injuries that he had to stay in bed until late on the afternoon of the following day, when he went to the doc- tor. Complainant admitted that he had had some drink that day.—Mr Allanson then gave his client's version of the case. He said that on the night in question, defendant was standing on the road between Llanberis and the Goat, talking to some men, when com- plainant passed. Defendant noticed that he was in drink, and thought it best not to fol- low him at once. Believing that he had gone far enough, defendant started for home, and after he had gone a little distance, he saw complainant sitting on the roadside. The latter asked defendant for a match, and with- out any provocation whatever, he got up and dealt the defendant a severe blow, which caused him to fall." He also bit-two or three of defendant's fingers. Complainant was very drunk at the time.—The bench bound both over to keep the peace, and ordered complainant to pay the costs.

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North Wales Baptist College. ANNUAL MEETING AT BANGOR. The annual meetings in connection with the North Wales Bantist College were com- menced at Bangor on Tuesday, when meet- ings of the Home Mission and Executive Scholarship Committees were held. In the evening at Penrallt Chapel, an English ser- mon wa spreached by the Rev R. Richards (Bristol). On Wednesday morning a meeting of the general committee was held, followed bv the annual business meeting at the Penuel Chapel, Alderman D. Davies (Merthyr* Tre- siding. REPORT OF THE EXECUTIVE COM- MITTEE. Principal Silas Morris submitted the fol- ing report: —The last entrance examina- tion was held in June, 1897, when the follow- ing four candidates were successful: —Morris Owen, Bury; E. M. Thomas, Swansea; JIle3 Griffith, Neath; T. E. Walters, Pen- tr After passing the usual term of pro- bation they were admitted to the ordinary courses of study at the University College, and the two latter as students in our theo- log cal classes. The students who left during the session were Messrs Henry Jones, who settled at Maesyberllan, near Brecon; D. Jones at Lampeter; R. R. Jones at Rhandir- mwyn and Bwlchyrhiw; H. H. Williams at Cefnbychan and Ruabon and G. Bebb, who now leaves for a further period of study at Rawdon. Messrs D. Jones and D. H. Rees passed the A.T.S. examination held in June, 1897, in the first division, bringing the total number of our students who have passed this important theological examination up to nine. Several of the present students have just sat for the same examination, and are expected to pass with credit. Mr D. W. Lewis passed the Welsh matriculation exa- mination last year and has just sat for the intermediate. M1 W. R. Wat-kin, who passed the intermediate in part will now com- plete it, as well as take a part of the last year ordinary. Messrs D. Hopkins ard G. M. Thomas are preparing for the London inter- mediate in July. Messrs Morris Owen and E. M. Thomas have sat for the Weifi-h matri- culation. These facts, whilst not showing advanced preparation among our cand.dates before admission, yet clearly surest an ad- mirable spirit of devotion to work which would have yielded still better results with more favourable early opportunities. The special course of lectures was given this year bv the Rev H. C. Williams, Corwen, who, lik, his predecessors in this lectures ip, ch,rse a subject which had long received his close attention, viz., "The Johanmne con- ception of Christ." This series will be com- plied during the next session, and will torm, when complete, a very valuable contribution, especially to the Welsh literature of the sub- iec* A somewhat novel experiment in tne history of Welsh theological colleges was made this session in the endeavour of our tutors, in conjunction with those of Bala- Ba igor College, and in accordance with the resolution of our half-yearly meeting in 1895 to carry out the principle of combined or intercollegiate teaching. The subjects Qf the A.T.S. or B.D. examinations can thug b*- dealt with far more thoroughly than be- fore, owing to the greater distribution o fore, owing to the greater distribution of labour which becomes possible without Meet- ing any distinctive views or even our finan- cial position in the least. Although the ex- periment was not made under the best con- ditions, as fat as the tutors of either in- stitutions were concerned, yet we think the result distinctly encouraging and believe --iat even when the staff of this college haa been duly reinforced it will still be found a great advantage, if not a necessity, with a view to meeting more fullv the needs of advanced students. No one who knows aught of the ever-increasing degree of the spWisation which finds place in all tho modem theo- logical dicipline will hesitate on this Will not this kind of federation of the col- leges that are within reach of each other, though of different denominations, tend to i true solution of the so-called college amal- gamation question? This leads us tc> re with a feeling of devout satisfaction to the settlement of the Baptist College question, vhich results from the recent decisive vote f the churches in favour of two col-eges at Hangor and Cardiff. The reduction of these colleges to two seems about to be accom- plished in excellent spirit on the part of all t oncerned. If this particular mode of set- tlement yields satisfaction to us, we must not Lrget that it will cost many a pang of regret to others who may hold different views as to the means of realisation, though not of the end itself. This magnanimity, therefore, in y elding to the majority demands Pll the it ore recognition. One point we wish re- nembered bv all our churches and support- eri, viz., that this reduction of the number of institutions to be supported ought not to IT oon a relaxation of liberality on their side, b it rather an increase of contributions. In tnis way alone ein we bring about a concen- tration of forces upon the training to be im- p rted at the future "school of the prophets." On churches have done a truly remarkable w irk, wheu, properly understood in founding ai d supporting their colleges so nobly in the past. They have now shown that they are prepared to strive for higher efficiency, and t. readjust their methods to the demands of tj e, times. Yet if they continue to multi- p] preachers at the same rate as before with- 01 making adequate provision for their tr lining, the enevitable result will be to make tte number of untrained ministers larger in tie next generation than in this or: even in W the last. That is a possible outcome of the afcialgamatioSt tiiovemeftt vhioh ought to be fa ><etL The number of students hitherto training has not been too high, and ought not, therefore, fcs be reduced. This can be shown by references to the fact that, almost without exception, all the students of the three colleges were needed by vacant church- es. as well as a certain number of men with- out college training. If, therefore, the sime number of men are to be trained in the two os formerly in the three, the funds not only for their better education but also for their more adequate maintenance should be forthcoming. If it could be brought home t. the friends of the conges that a few hun- dred pounds more per annum would suffiice to relieve egch student of the difficulties which confront him at the earlier part of his course there can be little doubt that the response would be immediate and entbusias- tl°* FINANCIAL. The Treasurer (Mr Beck) presented his statement for the year ending December 31st, 1897, showing that the payments amounted to £1197 Is 43, and the receipts to t.,480 5s 6d, there being a balance due to the bankers and the treasurer of R216 15s 10d. MISSION FUND. Mr Simon Jones (Wrexham), treasurer, of the College Home Mission Fund, pre- sented a report from which it appeared that a balance of t:3 17s Id was due to the trea- surer. SCHOLARSHIP FUND. The accounts of the Scholarship Fund showed a balance of uninvested capital in the bank of RI 17 7s 8d. On the motion of the Rev Moses Roberts, Festiniog. seconded by the Rev D. H. Rees, Colwvn Dav, the reports were adopted. THANKS. The Rev S. R. Young moved, and the Rev Peter Williams- (Pedr Hir) sondeà,and was carried that the treasurers and the audi tors be thanked for their services, and be

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The National Eisteddfod GIFT OF A SWORD BY PROFESSOR HERKOMER. v; Owing to the earlydate "of "tftis year's Na- tional Eisteddfod-cf Wales, Professor ftubert Herkoirier, R.A., who is known in Welsh bardic circles as Gcmer," is unable to get the "Sword of Ceremony," which he is pre- senting to the Gorsedd of the Bards, ready in time for formal presentation at Festiniog, as he had intended. The following is the cffi- cial description of the sword:-From the end of the scabbard to the top of the pom- mel it measures 6ft. 2in. On the top of the handle is a natural six-sided crystal, within which have been drilled the three lines of • Ccelbren beirdd," cr bars of light used by the Gorsedd of the Bards to represent the word "God." Professor Herkomer takes the crystal as a symbol of mystery, and the word "God" is therefore represented within this mystery. This crystal is held bv a dragon (made cf gold) clinging to the handle. The hand-guards consist of bands of bright steel, wrought into bold lines. The scab- bard is of wood, bound by enamelled copper bands, containing the following Welsh bardic mottoes, which have been supplied bv the Archdruid Hwfa Mon:—"Y Gwir vn Erbyn y Byd," "Duw a Phob Daioni," "Calon wrth Galon," "A Laddo a Leddir," r'Ie;;u na'd Gamwaith." There are also stones let into the scabbard. It is eminently a sword cf ceremony, not of war. The sword is in- tended to be carried upright, and only held horizontally for the interesting ceremonies of opening and closing the Gorsedd meetings, And the chairing of the bard, and the crown- ing of the poet, when all the members of the Gorsedd touch the Scabbard, and the Arch- druid calls cut, "A Oes Heddwch ?" (Is there peace ?). The entire work, including the forging of the blade, has been carried out by Professor Herkomer and his assistants, itt their workshops at Bushey, Herts.

THE PROGRAMME of the National Eis teddfod is to be ready on the lltfa of Jplv, but if possible it will be pub] ishedo.Wlw-. w

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requested to continue in office for the com- ing year. el GENERAL COMMITTEE. Mr Williams, Cefn Mawr, moved that the General Committee be re-elected and tho name of Dr John Rowlands, Llanelly, be added to the list. This was seconded by Mr Williams, of Gaerwen, and was carried. SERIES OF RESOLUTIONS. Dr Owen Davies moved, and the Rev D. Davies, Llandudno, seconded, the following resolutions —That a new trust deed rela- ting to the properties of the Haverfordwest College be prepared, and that 26 new trus- tees be appointed, such trustees to represent Cardiff and Bangor Colleges; that the two said colleges be requested to appoint such trustees at their annual meetings; that the committee of management of the Haverford- west Baptist College be requested to take the necessary steps for assigning the properties of the Haverfordwest College to the new trustees appointed by the Bangor and Car- diff Colleges, that the committee request the trustees to assign the whole of such properties to the new trustees; that the Bangor and Cardiff Col- leges be requested to take the necessary steps for indemnifying the new trustees ap- pointed; that Mr Pueh, solicitor, of Pont ypridd, be appointed to prepare the neces- sary deeds and documents for the assignment of the property of the Haverfordwest Col- lege that the tollowing be appointed trus- tees For Cardiff College, Mr W. Edwards, Newport: Rev T. E. Williams, Newtown; Alderman D. Davies, Merthyr Dr Gomer Lewis, Swansea Dr Morris, Aberystwyth; Mr W. Morris, Treorkey; Mr Alfred Tho- mas, M.P., and Mr Henry Morgan, London. For Bangor College, Revs O. Davies, D.D., Carnarvon; H. Cemyw Williams, Corwen; Dr Evans, Festiniog; Messrs J. Roberts, Llandudno; Richard Roberts, Carnar- von; R. Williams, Garn Dolbenmaen; Dr Rowland Williams, Holyhead; and Mr O. Owen, Liverpool. It was also proposed that the Rev Dr Edwards, Cardiff, be requested to see the existing trustees of Haverford- west College for the purpose of obtaining consent to the assignment of the property to the new turstees, and to ascertain the 1 oca- the new turstees, and to ascertain the loca- ion of certain documents relating to the said properties. It was suggested that the name of Prin- cipal Silas Morris be substituted for that of Mr John Roberts, of Llandudno, in the list of trustees representing Bangor College, but it was eventually agreed to confirm the re- port as it stood. A further resolution which had been modified at a committe meeting during the morning was then sub mitted and carried. It was to the effect that the names of the students of Haver- fordwest College be incorporated in the re- ports of both Colleges, and not divided be tween them as originally suggested. SERMONS. As a result of a scrutiny of votes previous- ly taken, the Rev E. T. Jones, Llwynypia and the Rev Principal Roberts, Aberys twyth, were appointed to preach the Welsh and the English sermon respectively at the next annual meeting. TUTORIAL STAFF. Mr Simon Jones, Wrexham, moved that in view of the altered circumstances in con- nection with the Welsh Colleges of the de- nomination a position on the tutorial staff of the North Wales College be offered to Principal T. Witton Davies, subject to ar- rangements to be made by the executive committee. Mr Jones explained that it was desirable, in view of certain circumstances, that an attempt should be made to secure for Wales the services of one of her best edu- cated sons, and one who had attained high proficiency in the study of Eastern lan- guages. Principal S. Morris seconded the proposal which was carried unanimously. The customary votes of thanks brought the meeting to a close. RE-UNION. In the course of the afternoon there was a re-union of students, when the Rev G. Williams, Amlwch, read a pa per on "The Minister's Pastoral Work."