Rhyl Journal

LOCAL OBSERVATIONS. A disgraceful act was perpetrated in Rhyl on Saturday night. Under the cover of darkness seme persons plastered the ap- proaches to eeveral of the places of worship, and also some private residences, with posters advertising a play which was to be oroduced at the Grand Pavilion on Monday. The police have endeavoured to discover I who were responsible for this shameful business, and it is believed that they have been able to trace the parties. It was expected that summonses would have been issued for the Court held on Tuesday but it is stated that they failed to get the necessary formalities complied with in time. It is to be hoped that when the culprits are brought before the magistrates there will be no hesitation on the part of those on the Bench in inflicting the heaviest penalty possible. There can be no excuse for an act of this sort, and those in authority owe it to the people of Rhyl to do their duty in this matter, and to make an example of the offenders. It has taken the local and county authori- ties a very long time to awaken to the necessity of taking steps with regard to the Foryd Bridge, but now that they have started they do not appear to know where to stop. Not only is the Denbighshire County Council, at its meeting in October, to be asked to help in getting public control of the bridge, but that all-powerful functionary the Lord High Admiral of England is to be asked to interpose in order that the naviga- tion of the river be not interfered with. The advice of Mr Robert Jones, at the Council meting on Monday, urging caution in those matters, should not be lost sight of. It is very doubtful whether the electric light and refuse destructor works will be completed by the beginning of next I tn Z3 season, as was hoped by many of the Councillors. There appears to have been unwarrantable delay, and the fault lays chiefly at the door of local officialdom. Valuable time and favourable weather has been lost because the plans of the buildings are not ready. If it takes as Jong to com- plete the works as it has taken to get the fish market altered to a fire station, we cannot expect the destructor and electric light works to be completed for some years yet The Council should take the matter into their serious consideration without delay, and if there is any difficulty in getting things put right let them not hesitate to take stringent 'measures. The destructor is a necessity, and should be erected at once. It must also be remembered that prices of building material are still going uP.

THE ROYAL ALEXANDRA HOSPITAL. OPENINC OF THE WARD BLOCK. SUCCESSFUL BAZAAR. AN APPEAL TO THE ENGLISH COUNTIES FOR HELP. It is eighteen years since the Princess of Wales wrote to the late Duke of Westminster complying with his request that the Children's Hospital and Convalescent Home at Rhyl might bear Her Royal Highness's name, and in that time the institution has had more difficulties, to contend with than usually falls to the lot of like undertakings. Lack of financial sup- port has not been altogether the greatest difficulty in fact the great obstacle to be surmounted was that of securing a suitable site for a new building, the erection of which was made imperative by the lack of adequate accommodation in the old one. This week, however, witnessed the completion of the first stage of a noble work; the finishing of a portion of an undertaking that was dear to the heart of the late Duke of Westminster, president of the institution, and which stands to-day as evidence of the generosity of many who, like the deceased nobleman, have at heart the needs and welfare of suffering children. I The Luncheon. The formal opening of the completed wing of the hospital took place on Wednesday. The building was decorated with flags and banners, and the surroundings looked bright and pleasing. A public luncheon in the Recreation Room formed the first part of the proceedings. Lord Mostyn presided, and sitting by him were the Countess of Dun- donald (who was accompanied by Lord Cochrane and Lady Grizel Cochrane), and Mrs Ffoulkes, widow of the founder of the hospital, and Mrs Townshend Main waring. There was a large attendance, among those present being the following :-iNIrs Naylor Leyland, Mr and Mrs Davies Cooke, Colonel &- Mrs Mesham, Miss Vizard, Major tt Mrs Webber, Mr Herbert Lewis, M.P., Mr and Miss Ralli, Col. Evans Lloyd, Mrs Williams Wynn, Capt. Buddicom, Mr P. P. Pennant, Mrs Assheton Smith (Vaynol) Mr Giffard, Lady Tate and Party (Downing) Mr and Mrs R. M. Hugh-Jones and Miss Whitley, Dr. and Mrs Girdlestone, Mr and Mrs Wood (Castleton) Mrs Tidswell, Dr. Lawrence, Mr and Mrs Bromley, Mr and Miss Wild, Mrs Howell Evans, Mr Greenhalgh, The Vicar of Rhyl and Mrs Lloyd, Mr S. Perks, Rev and Mrs Jenkin Griffith, Mrs Joshua Davies, Mr Llewellyn Jones, Mr Talbot, Mr Arnold, Mr and Mrs Steer, Mrs Aston (W rexham) Mr Cooper, (Holywell) Hon. Mrs Trelawny, Mr Robt. Oldfield, Mr TAverner, Mr and Mrs Peake, Miss Wadlow, Mr F. J. Gamlin, Mr Thomas Parry (Mold) Mr and Mrs Rawlins, Dr Easterby, Mrs and Miss Easterby, &c. An excellent [repast was spread on pretty flurally decorated tables. The luncheon was organised by Mr and Mrs R. M. Hugh-Jones, assisted by Miss Hugh-Jones, and Miss Wil- liams of the Alexandra Hotel, and the proceeds were added to those of the Refreshment Sfall. There were about 120 guests, every available seat being taken, and many more tickets could have been sold had space permitted. The fol- lowing contributions to the sumptuous menu were received. Game from Sir Henry Robert- son, Mr Ralli, Mr Edmund Peel (Brynypys), Sir Gilbert Greenall, Rev B. Jones-Bateman, Colonel Mesham. A lamb from Messrs Owens, butchers; poultry from Mr Walter Clarke, Water Street bread cobs from Mr Griffiths, Water Street biscuits from the Star Supply Stores cheese from Mr Welsby meat pies and sweets from Mrs Girdlestone, Mrs Perks, Mrs Thomas, Mrs Storey, Mrs Williams Wynn, Mrs Chambres, Mr Joseph Wood, Mr Thomas (confectioner) wine and spirits from Colonel Mesham, Mr Chambres, Mr J. H. Ellis, Mr Smith (Old Town Hall) mineral waters from Ellis & Son (Ruthin), and Mr Davies, chemist (Rhyl); flowers for the table from Mr John King and Miss Watts crockery and glass was lent by Mr Beech and Mrs Wedgwood; cutlery by the Claremont Hydro and Mr Sheffield. Lord Mostyn, after giving the toast of the Queen, which was received with cheers, gave the toast -of the Prince and Princess of Wales and the rest of the Royal Family (applause). They knew the great interest which the Princess of Wales took in the Royal Alexandra Children's Hospital (applause). It was in 1882 that Her Royal Highness was graciously pleased to associate her name with it. From that time for the next ten years the hospital increased by leaps and bounds. It was decided by the ('ommittee in 1894, after a great deal of consideration, to build a new hospital, as the old building was not large enough for the requireinentfi. In July of that year the Prince and Princess of Wales visited the Principality, and were received with great enthusiasm in all parts of Wales. (Hear, hear.) 1 Their Royal Highnesses also visited Rhyl and laid the foundation stone on the old site, but after considerable difficulties the Committee decided to erect the hospital on a new and beautiful site which they [secured. He was sure that the Princess of Wales took the deepest interest in that hospital, and he wished that she could be present that day to see the wonderful work that had been carried out since the found- ation stone was laid. He was sure that she continued to take a deep interest in the hospital (applause). Mr Herbert Lewis, M.P., said there was one toasc which should be honoured before the com- pany separated. They were grateful to their noble Chairman for having come to that func- tion. His lordship was associated with many works of charity and usefulness. Next week he was to preside at one of the National Eis- j teddfod meetings. But he could not have a more congenial occupation than taking part in that work of mercy, which was to go on, they hoped, for a long time in that beautiful build- ing (applause). Perhaps his lordship would forgive him for saying that, much as they appreciated his presence in the chair, they regretted that the donor whose munificence had done so much for the institution was no longer with them, but he was one of those whose good deeds followed them (applause). Lord Mostyn had referred to the foundation stone of the building. He (Mr Herbert Lewis) believed that the true foundation stone after all consisted of that sentiment of charity and kindness and compassion whose results they saw around them that day (applause). How many little lives it had prolonged and brightened, and how many would it, they trusted, prolong and brighten (applause). What pleasant memories there would be in iiiany-t person's mind of a portion of an early life spent by the seaside, enjoying the refreshing breezes of Rhyl. They all hoped for the prosperity of the institution. He pro- posed the toast of the Chairman, Lord Mostyn (applause). Lord Mostyn thanked them for the honour they had conferred upon him. He hoped that the bazaar to be opened by the Countess of Dundonald would be a great success (hear, hear.) He thought that they in Flint- shire were proud that they had collected so much money towards the hospital by means of the Hospital League (applause). He might say that, although the hospital was situated in Flintshire and at Rhyl, which was one of the chief towns in the county, the bulk of the children who were received in the hospital did not come from Wales, but from the English counties. As one of the Committee he appealed to the English friends to give the hospital the support it deserved. If the English, would support the hospital as much as they in Welsh I YYrales did, it would be one of the most suc- cessful ever built in any county (applause). The Religious Function. Following precedence set at the opening of the two previous buildings dedicated to the use of the home, a form of service was gone through in the various sick wards. This was conducted by the Rev Thomas Lloyd, Al. A., Vicar of Rhyl, and consisted of a short lection (St. Mark x. 13-16 inclusive) and appropriate prayers. Then came the dedication in the following terms, I dedicate this ward, to be known as the ward, in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, Amen." A number of the com- pany accompanied the Vicar through the wards, some of which were occupied by patients. The Bazaar was held in the north and south wards on the ground floor. The idea of the bazaar was first suggested by the late Duke of Westminster, but it was his grace's intention to hold it in London. However, some months ago at the suggestion of Mrs Muspratt, a committee was formed of the following to carry out a bazaar in connection with the opening :— Mrs Howell Evans, Gresford; Mrs Henry Ffoulkes, Mrs Girdlestone, Miss Hugh Jones, Mrs Eyton Lloyd, Mrs Muspratt, Mrs Perks, Mrs Moreton Prichard, Mrs De Ranee, Mrs Thomas (Clarence House) Mrs Williams (Richmond House); Miss Vizard, Mr P. H. Chambres, Dr, Girdlestone, Mr R. M. Hugh Jones, Dr. Eyton Lloyd, Mr J. L. Muspratt, Mr S. Perks, Mr J. Wild. The bazaar was ably super- intended by Mrs Muspratt, Bronhaul. She was fortunate in having the able assistance of Mr R. M. Hugh-Jones, who displayed remark- able and praiseworthy energy in carrying out multifarious and onerous secretarial duties. Mr H. Percival Williams, Mr D. Trehearn, Mr Godfrey Parry, Mr Edward Jones, and Mr Roger Jones assisted in the distribu- tion, &c., of the tickets. The successful completion of an undertaking such as was witnessed this week in connection with the hospital was no light matter, and those who were responsible deserve not only the thanks of the committee and subscribers of the hospital, but are to be complimented on the results. The stallholders were as follows :— I-Lady Grizel Cochrane, Miss Howell Evans, Miss M. Howell Evans, Miss F. Howell Evans. 2-The Hon. Gwynedd Mostyn, Miss Muspratt, Miss Robson, Miss Maitland, Miss Llewellyn Jones, Miss D. Talbott, Miss F. Royle, Miss Gladys Lloyd, Miss J. Lloyd. 3-Miss Perks, Miss Eyton Lloyd, Miss Ethel Perks, Miss M. Griffith Jones, Miss Steer, Miss N. V. Taylor. 4—Miss Buckingham, Miss Lloyd Williams, Miss Wild, Miss W. Wild, Mrs. Jones Parry. 5—Miss Williams, Miss N. Muspratt, the Misses Thomas, Miss Rawlins, Miss D. Royle, Miss A. Taylor. 6-Miss Perks. Refreshment Stall Williams YVynn, Miss Fosbery, Miss Vera Hughes, Miss Hugh Jones, Miss Enid Bibby, Miss Watts, Miss Williams (Alexandra Hotel). Fruit and Flowers—Miss YYrhitley. Parcel Stall-Miss Joyner and the Nurses. The Countess of Dundonald, on ascending the platform to formally declare the bazaar open, was accompanied by the Bishop of St. Asaph, Colonel W. Cornwallis West, and Colonel Mesham. Colonel Mesham took the chair, and said that he had been asked to make a few intro- ductory remarks concerning the hospital. That day marked an epoch in the history of the institution. They knew that the hospital had a very small beginning twenty-eight years ago, and they hoped very shortly to see it much larger than it was at present (hear, hear). It was first started in a small cottage near the sea, not far from that spot, by the late Archdeacon Ffoulkes, who little thought that it would grow to be such A Large, Useful, and Important Institution to the greater part of the United Kingdom. It grew so fast during the first 15 years of its existence that in 1894 the building was mani- festly unfit to be a hospital. It had been decided by the medical officers and the com- mittee to build on the old site, which was hallowed by many old associations. Plans were prepared, but so many difficulties presented themselves, that they finally decided to adopt the beautiful site on which the build- ings had now been erected (hear, hear). He thought that the committee and the subscribers were fortunate in securing such a place. He did not suppose that there was a finer site on the coast for a children's hospital than that one (hear, hear). Rhyl was one of the most healthy towns in the United Kingdom, and he was sure that the children who came to that hospital would for many generations to come y 11 bless those who provided them with the means of restoring them to health. He was sure that many would derive much benefit from staying at such a place (applause). But the work carried out had not been done without a great deal of money. He knew that many people said that they had spent too much money. He asked that those who were present would I listen for one moment to the reasons for the expenditure of so much, and he thought that it would be proved that the committee J were j ustilied iu what they had doue, He had to 1 lament the absence of one who was amongst the foremost philanthropists of his time; a man whose name stood out among those of his generation. It was the name of a man who was one of the greatest benefactors of his day. He alluded to the presi lent of that institution from its foundation until the time of his death the late Duke of Westminster. To him they owed what they were able to do that day, and who enabled them to do what they intended to carry out (hear, hsar). The splendid munificence of the late Duke was known to them all. No one felt his death more than did those connected with the hos- pital. He (the speaker) thought that they would agree with him that there was not a more touching sight in the world than to see children suffering. They would agree with him that when hospitals were built in large towns everything of the very latest was introduced into them. and it would not be right to bring children from their homes to a hospital at the seaside unless there was provided for their accommodation the very best that could be procured. It would have been a mistake to put up a poor building, and they would have been blamed in future generations for their want of foresight. It would not have been right to put up a building that would require adding to from time to time (hear, hear). They had not restricted their architects, but they had obtained the best advice possible, and had engaged men who understood the requirements of modern sanitation. The architects, Messrs Waterhouse and Son, London, had been requested to build a place that would answer future requirements. The Committee hoped to go on until they had completed the whole of the buildings. He was aware that people had been most generous in their dona- tions and subscriptions, but the Committee wanted the English people of the Midlands to realise the responsibilities which devolved upon them. (Hear, hear.) The great majority of the people who came to that hospital were from the big towns of England, but the residents of those towns did not adequately support the institution. He had to remind those who resided in England that according to the last report the following were the patients who came there from English towns :—Birmingham, 286 Chester, 203 Shrewsbury, 147 Man- chester, 113 London, 87 Burton on Trent, 111 Liverpool, 95; Stoke-on-Trent, 80; Wolverhampton, 72 Hereford, 28 Stafford, 44 Burslem, 20 Coventry, 45 Derby, 22 Wigan 13; Leeds, 11. (Hear, hear.) The local photographs in the programme and in the" Journal were taken by Mr Ernest Jones, Queen Street. The Institution was by no means a local one. He thought that the greatest possible credit was due to Miss Vizard, and the ladies who were associated with her, that during the years which the change of quarters had taken there had been neither a decrease in the number of patients nor in the amount of subscriptions (applause). They had an annual average of 700 patients passing through the hospital, and there had been no decrease in the money which came in (applause), The block which had been completed was known as the Hospital Block," the'next to it in course of erection, and which it was hoped to complete by January, was the Administrative Block," while further on would be the" Convalescent Block." The reason they had spent so much money in connection with the building erected was that they were advised—and rightly so he thought—that it would be better to place the heating apparatus and the electric lighting plant in the basement of the Convalescent Block. That had been carried out, and if they Ihad not done so they would have had to put up a temporary building, and later o n transfer the plant to its proper place, an ex- pense which was unnecessary, and which had been avoided (applause). Then again people said that they had spent a lot of money on ornamentation. Would anyone have them erect an ugly building on such a beautiful site? They had spent money in putting up a building that was a credit to the architects, a credit to the institution, a credit to Rhyl, and An Example of what a Hospital should be (applause). That hospital was the only children's hospital on the sea coast of North Wales. There were children's homes, but no hospitals. That institution would be an adjunct to the hospital of the large towns of England. In fact, he might call it their local institution. That being so, he thought the large towns were bound to support it. He felt that they owed a debt of gratitude to Mrs Muspratt and the ladies who had helped her, and he hoped that they would be repaid by the bazaar being a great success financially (applause). He hoped that the result would be that they would wipe off much of the deficit of zC6000, a sum which was required to complete the second block. They had been favoured in the past with munificence, and he was in hope that some people would now help the hospital who had not previously dene so (hear, hear). He thought that he should say a few:words as to the way Mr Hugh- Jones had carried out the secretarial work. That gentleman had compiled a very good programme, which contained particulars of the hospital, and which had been admirably printed. He complimented the Rhyl printers (Messrs Pearce and Jones) on the highly creditable manner in which they had carried out their work. The Committee regretted the absence of Mr R. W. Wynn, the secretary of the hospital, who was in South Africa serving his country. They hoped he would soon safely return (applause). He also wished to mention the name of Lord Dundonald, who was so gallantly upholding the prestige of his house and showing what a Dundonald could do in South Africa (applause). Lady Florentia Hughes and Mr Hughes of Kinmel very much regretted that they were unable to be present, being away in Scotland. They were very pleased that Lady Dundonald was present that day to open the bazaar (applause). Lady Dundonald said she had pleasure in declaring the buildings and the bazaar open. She could only hope that the hospital wonld be a greater success in the future than even in the past. It had been under most able management for many years (applause). The Bishop of St. Asaph then proposed a The Bishop of St. Asaph then proposed a vote of thanks to Lady Dundonald for being present that day. At the same time he could not but, express regret that death had removed from their midst the late Duke of Westminster, without whose generosity it would not have been possible to have erected that hospital. They were grateful to Lady Dundonald for coming there that day, and they were proud that she bore the name of one whose name was received by every Englishman all over the world with the same applause that it was received in that country (applause). Speaking about the hospital, he reminded the friends from England that six out of every seven 11 patients who entered that hospital came from outside Wales, and therefore The Institution had a Special Claim for Support from the English counties, and especially from Birmingham, Staffordshire, and Warwickshire. There was one thing which lie hoped the Press would help in that was the publication of the fact that there was one man in the Midlands who could do almost anything there, and he was to be asked to preside at a meeting to be held in Birmingham at which the claims of that hospital would be advocatod. He referred to Mr Joseph Chamberlain—(applause)—and he hoped that Lady Dundonald would help the Committee in getting that gentleman to pre- side at the meeting. (Hear, hear.) The citv of Birmingham did not contribute its fair share to that hospital, and as the springs of Wales had dried up the Committee were bound to ask their English friends to realise their responsi- bilities and to help them in this matter (ap- plause). Colonel W. Cornwallis West seconded the vote of thanks, and said he was pleased to see that while Lord Dundonald was so gallantly fighting his country's battles in South Africa his wife was at home attending to social duties ill the way she did that day (applause). Lord Dundonald was a man of whom they were proud, and he had merited the enthusiasm with which his name had been received. They were aware that the noble lord had not been in Itny battle but that he had succeeded in winning victory applause). It was not long ago that he (the speaker)was in a meeting at which the war was being discussed, when a man jumped up and asked where was Dundonald, and where was French (applause). Those were the names of two of the finest cavalry officers the world had ever seen. Every man, woman, and child would congratulate them on their services, and they were proud of the name of Dundonald, and proud of the husband of the lady who had honoured that bazaar with her presence. He was pleased to find that her ladyship took as deep an interest in that institution as did her parents (applause). After the vote of thanks had been put to the meeting and carried, Colonel Mesham said he desired to give the following information concerning the naming of the wards :—'In the old hospital, there was a large ward added in 1877 in memory of the only child of the founder, Archdeacon Ffoulkes;! and the first ward to receive a name in the new will be called the Gertrude Ffoulkes Ward. There was also in the old hospital a small ward which bore the name of an old and much respected doctor in this town who rendered very valuable service as "a labour of love in the early years of the institution. His memory will be perpetuated in the new hospital by the Price Roberts Ward. His widow, in acknow- ledging the letter from the committee, has generously offered to free a bed in this ward for n one year. In naming a ward after Miss Cunningham Graham, the committee have given effect to a resolution, passed at the annual meeting in 1888, on the motion of the late Duke of Westminster. The Hesketh Ward and the Duke's Ward will commemorate two of our greatest benefactors (hear, hear). The Bazaar. After the Countess of Dundonald had declared the bazaar open, a busy scene ensued. The stalls were prettily ornamented with canopies of scarlet and white, and decorated with a multifarious collection of articles, the names of which were legion. Commencing at the top of the room, where the opening ceremony took place, we found one of the most fascinating stalls, the special feature being wicker work. Straw and rushes were woven into bewitching shapes dainty baskets for table decoration had sprays of smilax charmingly arranged round cunningly twisted handles ferns, with delicate fronds, filled delightful drawing-room stands luncheon baskets, work baskets, waste paper baskets, tidies, serviceable marketing baskets, vied with each other in claiming the attention of buyers. Needless to add that a brisk trade was pursued at this stall. Passing on, we found in the next booth that the articles were so varied that it was difficult to select any special items, although perhaps some charming cushion covers deserve notice, and also some beautifully-worked fancy tea cloths. Here also were displayed for sile views of the hospital, which were doubtless purchased by many as mementos of a charming afternoon. On the opposite side was a stall rich with quaint pottery in most fantastic shapes and designs, beaten metal work, carved oak, embroidered photo frames. Delightful table centres and other alluring wares were here displayed, and a very pretty effect was obtained by arranging at the back of the stall a bed-spread, with point lace ornamentation, lined with palest sea- green, through which a most delicate light penetrated. Crossing the corridor we found immediately upon entering the other ward a most tempting stall laden with Aller Vale and other :potter;, beaten copper work, large copper bowls, a beautifully worked and designed copper coal vase, dainty cake stands, hand-painted d'oyleys and other charming devices for beguiling buyers. On the other side was another richly laden stall. Here were delightful photo screens in flowered silks, embroidered screens for photos, novelties in the form of sedan chairs also for exhibiting photos, poker worked tables, miniature grandfather clocks, pipe racks and other charming novelties, Near the entrance the juvenile visitors were delighted with a great variety of dolls, a completely equipped doll's bedstead and other fascinating toys, whilst close at hand was the ever-delight- ful and mysterious bran pie. Perhaps the most tempting of all tempting stalls, however, was the flower and fruit stall, round which ivy was trailed with charming effect, and upon which was a splendid assort- ment of ferns, plants, and cut flowers, whilst the air was heavy with the odour of pines and peaches. These were daintily arranged below fine bunches of rich purple grapes, and surrounded by blossoms of every hue. Even the air seemed cooler amid the fresh greenery of the plants. Then there were also the most charming of all charming Persian kittens and some splendid fowls on sale. No report of the bazaar would be complete without a mention of the refresh- ment stalls which had the proud position of a separate room. Here there was a most be- wildering display of sweetmeats in every shape and form, cakes so charmingly iced and decorated that they seemed too good to be spoilt by cutting. So much for the goods for sale. But what can be said anent the buyers—that bewildering assemblage of Beauty, Rank and Fashion, who crowded the wards, corridors and balconies, divided between their desire to see and be seen, to spend money for the good of the cause, and to get charming items of decoration for their homes. The day was a perfect one refreshing breezes tempered the brilliant sun- shine, and brought visitors from the whole length and breadth of the Vale of Clwyd, and up and down the coast line. Friends who had not met for years were suddenly brought face to face, delighted meetings took place between old acquaintances, fresh associations, were created, life and animation was the order of the day. From the balcony facing north a charm- ing view of the sea was obtained, blue and hazy in the sunshine fishing smacks in full sail were almost close to the shore, and the smoke from the funnels of passing steamers was outlined upon the horizon, whilst little groups of holiday makers in gala attire were making bright spots amid the green of the sandhills. Turning again to the ward, a veritable kaleidescopo of colours was to be seen, bevies of pretty girls in pure white, pale blue, every shade of pink, heliotrope and delicate greens silhouetted against the, darker costumes of the matron and conventionalattiro of thejgentlemen. The Countess of Dundonald was wearing an elegant gown of appliqued black lace over pale blue silk, the bodice of which was stylishly trimmed with honiton lace, and the corsage thickly studded with brilliants. AVith this becoming gown she wore sfrings of pearls and pale blue chiffon toaue with iet ornanmnfcs Lady Mostyn's charming toilette was panne, with trimmings in panicr form, of guipure lace, the same lace ornamenting the bodice. Lady Grizel Cochrane was attired in white, with Valenciennes insertion, white hat with ostrich tips and diamond ornaments. The Hon. Law- rence Broderick was present, with Mrs Broderick—who was charmingly costumed in black and had with her a pretty child in white silk and dainty hat of pink. The Hon. Frances Hughes of Kinmel was wearing a black silk chiffon, accordion pleated; the Misses Howell Evans had pretty white silk frocks with lace insertion over pale blue silk, and tucked trans- parent sleeves. Another charming costume worn by a visitor was of purple cloth with white tucked vest, the trimming fof the dress being silk open-work and hatB of stitched purple velvet. Mrs Edwards, of The Palace, was dressed in black silk grenadine, with stylish sequin toque. A very pretty effect was obtained by a lady who wore turquoise ornaments on a green-sprigged muslin gown. Some exocedingly handsome point lace was worn with a handsome black silk flowered dress. A charming frock was made of soft fawn cloth, with appliqued cloth ornamentation, and prettily shaped yoke of turquoise blue, under laoe. Very stylish was a costume of deepest purple, with silk chiffon 1 accordion-pleated bodice, worn with a toque of Neapolitan violets. Another delightful creation was one of black satin, prettily tucked, having trimmings of sea-green. A stylish lady was wearing black figured silk net over white satin. In fact, the pretty costumes might be enum- crated ad libitum, so varied \tere they in colour, so rich in texture, and so beautifully designed. Lord Mostyn in his after-luncheon speech re- marked that Rhyl was one of the principal if not the principal town in North Wales, and it is an undisputable fact that the principal in- habitants of the district for many miles around visited the beautiful watering place on the occasion of the bazaar at the New Alexandra Hospital. The bazaar was continued yesterday after- noon and evening, and was again well patronised, the sales being very brisk, es- pecially last night, when the stalls were cleared of a large quantity of articles. The total receipts of the bazaar have not yet been ascertained, but on the first day nearly £ 800 in donations and receipt from the stalls and luncheon was counted. Yesterday there was received about JE160. Mr n. M. Hugh- Jones, who represented the Committee of the Hospital throughout the whole of the proceed- ings, received the names of several new sub- scribers. The Entertainments were held in the Recreation Room, on Wednes- day and Thursday. The audiences were large, and capital programmes were provided under the direction of Miss Hugh-Jones, Maesgwyn. On the first day M. Henri Verbrugghen was the star, and gave several excellent violin selections. The following ladies and gentlemen also assisted at the performances :—Mr T Reginald Jones, Miss Norah Oakshott, Mr Harold Stock, Miss Nellie Pierce, Miss Muspratt, Mr Frank Lloyd, Mr It. M. Hugh Jones, Mrs Jones Parry, Miss Royle, and the Lay Clerksof St. Asaph Cathedral. Mrs H. J. W. YYratling was^the accompanist. Herr de Mersy's Promenade Band also played selections in the grounds of the hospital.

Reminiscences of Former Openings. The new hospital, opened with such eclat on Wednesday last, is the third building in which opening ceremonies in connection with the Chil- dren's Home at Rhyl have taken place. On another Wednesday, the 1st day of May, 1872, the first of such functions took place, in a cottage on the East Parade, the site of which is now occupied by Dr Girdlestone's House. At the opening this week we failed to find more than half-a-dozen persons who were present at the first, 28 years ago. The movement owed its inception, so it was then fully understood, to the Ven. Archdeacon Ffoulkes, Rector of Llandysil, who secured for it the patron- age of Sir Stephen Glynne, the Marquis of West- minster, the Bishops of St. Asaph, Bangor, Worcester, and Chester, Lord Richard Grosvenor, our County Member, and Sir John Hanmer, the Member for the Boroughs, &c. The "opening" on that first occasion consisted of a brief religious service, conducted by Archdeacon Ffoulkes, who was also treasurer jointly with Mr R, H. Dean, a gentleman who, we believe, resided in London. The Archdeacon delivered a short address, in which he combated a silly prejudice which had arisen among some ignorant people against the founding of such an institution in the town. Among those present were Mr and MrsMainwaring, Galltfaenan, Mr and Mrs Chambres, Llysmeirchion, Mrs Williams Wynn, Cefn, Misses Ffoulkes, Eriviatt, Mrs Hesketh, Mrs Henry Ffoulkes, Rev. Hugh Morgan, Vicar of Rhyl, and Mrs Morgan, Rev. T. E. Jones, Curate, Miss Lloyd, Tyn'rhyl, and Miss Preston. The second opening took place on the 22nd of April, 1874, two years after the first. This was at a building hitherto known as The Old Baths. The proceedings on this occasion again were of a distinctly religious character. A service was held at St Thomas's at 3 o'clock. Canon Morgan read I prayers, and his curates, the Rev J Bowcott, now vicar of Warnham, and the Rev W LI Nicholas, now Rector of Flint, the lessons. Dr Campbell, Bishop of Bangor, preached a sermon from Ephesians, v. 1, 2. The offertory amounted to 125. After the service, the Bishop, Dean Bonnor of St Asaph, Archdeacon Ffoulkes, Canon Morgan, and about a dozen other clergy, preceded by the choir, went in procession up Bath-street to the new Home, followed by some hundreds of people. In the building a special form of service was gone through, and Miss Vizard was solemnly placed in charge of the home by the Bishop.

A Royal Divorce," TO THE EDITOR OF THE RHYL. JOURNAL SIR,—YVill you permit me through the medium of your valuab'e paper, on behalf of Messrs Carter and Warhurst, the proprietors of the Victoria Pier and Pavilions, to express their strong disapproval cf, and indignation at, the unwarrantable and disgraceful act of some person or persons in placing the posters relating to the above theatrical company on certain places of worship and other private buildings in the town. They desire to disclaim in the most emphatic manner possible all know- ledge or approval of such contemptible conduct, and to assure the public that so far as their knowledge goes none of their employees or anyone acting on their behalf have had any hand in it. Messrs Carter and Warhurst deeply regret that such a thing should have occurred in connection with anything appearing in the Grand Pavilion, and sincerely hope that the guilty parties may be brought to justice.—Yours obediently, F. GEAHY, Local Representative of Messrs Carter and Warhurst

ST. ASAPIL The Bishop of St Asaph has received a telegram from his eldest son, Mr Alfred Harold Edwards, of Magdalen College, Oxford. Mr Edwards went to South Afiica as a member of the Duke of Cambrid- ge's special corps in the Imperial Yeomanry, and was captured at the battle of Lindley. He was taken to Poortgedacht with the rest, of the corps in May, and nothing more heard of him. The tele- gram was from Capetown, saying he was alive and well, much to the relief of his parents. Lieutenant Hymer Lane, nephew of the Bishop of Bangor, and connected with many North Wales families, has also been heard of.

THE NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD. There is every prospect now of the National Eisteddfod of Wales, which will be held in Liver- pool next week, being a distinct, if not a record success. An elaborate programme has been ar- ranged, the entries in the various competitions are very numerous, and the subjects have been well chosen. The Lord Mayor of Liverpool will pre- side over the first gathering in connection with the Cymmrodorion Section of the Eisteddfod, on Monday evening. Contrary to the custom which has hitherto been, almost invariably observed, the chief choral competition will be held on the first day of the eisteddfod. It remains to be seen whether the experiment will be justified. On Wednesday, which will be the second day. the adjudication will be given on the crown poem, illiams Pantycelyn," and the second choral competition will take place. Then, on Thursday the ceremony of chairing the bard will take place, the subject of tho chair ode being The Shepherd." On Friday the tit-bits will be the competitions for male voice parties and brass bands. What has been an exceptionally attractive feature of the eisteddfod this year is the splendid series of high- class concerts arranged.

DYSERTH. RED LION HOTEL.—The Red Lion Hotel, which is situated opposite the renowned Waterfalls, is now carried on under entirely new management, and special attention is given to the accommoda- tion of tourists and visitors. Headquarters of Cyclists' Touring Club, and every convenience. Wines and spirits of the finest quality. Tariff on application, and special terms for week-end parties. -\V. Jones, Proprietor. THE Local Government Board has remitted the surcharge made by the Auditor on certain Pariah Councillors in the matters of erecting the Water- fall Bridge. The cost will now be borne by the general body of ratepayers.

DEATH OF CANON OWEN JONES. It is with deep regret that we announce the death of the venerable Vicar of Bodelwyddan, which- took place yesterday, after a brief illness, dating from a paralytic seizure on Friday last. Canon Owen Jones was practically a native of Rhyl, his father being the well-known yoeman of Maesawilym. The deceased was one of the oldest living clergy in the diocese, having baen ordained deacon in 1851. He was Vicar of Pentre Voelas from 1857 to 1892, when, to the great satisfaction of all classes, he was appointed to succeed the present Bishop of Bangor as Vicar of Bodelwyddan. He was at the same time made Sacristan in the Cathedral Church, subsequently exchanging that stall for the Precentor's. The deceased possessed refined musical tastes, and his talent was utilise very extensively in the services of the Church a Wales. 4

RHYL DISTRICT. ROOSE AND Co's SPECIALITIES.—These are all per- sonally chosen with due regard to quality, and if you have not tried these we confidently invite you to do so. Always fresh, exquisite flavours, and at keenest market F-rices.- S.P.Q.R. Stores, Queen Street. THE Annual Event of Special Interest. For the; first 15 days of September only, Genuine Clearance Sale of Drapery goods in all departments. Immense Reductions will be made to effect a clean swpep we shall make it worth your while to visit this sale. Please note the only address-HuBBARD'S, Commerce House, 24 & 25 Welling- ton Road, Rhyl. For Rome-made Bread" and Confectionery, you j can't do better than call at JONES BROS', Liverpool House,Prestatyn. STILL LEADIXG.-Lloyd's Vienna Bread haf met with an extensive sale on its merits. It is baked in the latest and improved ovens. Send your orders for Vienna Bread and for all kinds of high-class Confectionery t z) R. Lloyd Bodfor Street. FOR Finest Creamery Butter at Is. per lb. go to the S.P.Q.R. Stores, Queen Street. JONES BROS, Prestatyn, still lead with their Challenge Blend Tea and are unsurpassed with their Bread and Cakes. NOTICE TO SJIOKERS.—Geo. Brookes' establishment, Club Building, Market Street, is the cheapc st and best house in town for tobaccos. Post orders attended to with promptness. Death. We regret to learn of the deat h of Mrs Pendleton, who passed peacefully away on Saturday. She was a faithful member of the English Wesleyan Church at Rhyl for over 20 years. On Sunday evening Rev H Lefroy Yorke, Pistol, mauB suitaoie reierence to her taithiulness. We are further requested to state tha t all claims against Mrs Pendleton's personal estiite must be sent before October 1st to Mr J.oseph Mudd, 18 Bodfor Street, Executor to the Will. Elwy Hall School. Three candidates from 5Elwy Hall School were sent in for the Oxford Junior Examination, and all passed. Miss E Angharad Jones (Mostyn Vicarage) and Miss M Ross in the First Division, and Miss W Maitland (Dudley Vicarage) in Division II. Deserving Charities. Mrs Pickersgill, Hon. Sec., has forwarded to the Kev. W Carlile, the sum of f2 103. collected, by the Town Clerk's permission, on the Sands by Dorothy, Leslie, and Willie Pichersgill, for the Church Army "Labour Homes" and "Indian Famine Fund." The Minstrel Troupe. General satisfaction appears to be felt that the Council have decided to give Mr E H. Williams the privilege of providing the minstrel troupe for next year. He has placed very good entertain- ments before visitors this year., and intends to keep the troupe going until October 12th. Last night at the Town Hall the troupe took their benefit, and were well patronised. During the evening Mr Joe Huda, on behalf of the troupe, presented Mr E H Williams ivith a handsome eight-day regulator clock, supplied by Mr J E Corney, High Street. Oxford Local Examinations. Miss Gray Maitland. pupil at ArcviZIe College, was amongst the successful cand idates for senior examination as above. Herr De Mersy's Bnnefit. r':F0. It as been decided to give Herr de Mersy a benefit in the Town Hall, on Thursday next. considering what the Promenade Band has done during the year, there should be a crowded house. The Grand Pavilion. That celebrated play, "A Royal Divorce was ably staged at the Grand Pavilion on the first three nights of this week. The company was one of the best that have visited Rhyl this season. Last night Oh Miss was produced. It is a lively little play, with plenty to eD tertain. The com- pany will again produce it to-night (Friday) and Saturday. On Monday and Tuesday the Novelty Bohemians will appear, and on Wednesday, Thurs- day, and Friday, a Greek Slave will be staged. Record of Bright Sunshine at Rhyl. The following is the record of bright sunshine at Rhyl during the week ending September 12, 1900. II. M Thursday 9 0 Friday 1 0 Saturday 8 45 Sunday. 8 45 Monday. 5 0 Tuesday 9 45 Wednesday 10 15 Total for period 52 30 Sale of Freehold Pro,perty at Rhyl. On Monday, at the Royal Hotel, Mr Fred Wallis offered for sale by public auction two semi- detached freehold residences, known as Craig Lea and Roualeyn, situate in Bath-street. Messrs Gamlin and Williams, solici tors, Rhyl, acted for the vendors, and Mr H P Williams read the con- ditions of sale. The auctioneer, in his opening remarks, wished to impress upon those present that Rhyl was gradually and steadily coming to the front, not so much as a holiday resort for excursionists and trippers, but as a residential seaside resort. Rhyl wass highly recommended by the medical profession in the Midland Counties, and the fact that, notwithstanding increased attraction had not been provided to induce holiday makers to patronise Rhyl, yet the town was steadily increasing both in size and rateable value, thus proving beyond a doubt that the chief attraction was the salubrity of climate, and as such Rhyl stood second to none on this coabt. The bidding star ted at £1000, but as no further sum than £1550 was offered the property was withdrawn. A quillet of land situate near Bryotirion was also put uj) to auction, and started at X50. After a spiritt3d competition it was eventually knocked down to Mr Williams, builder, Chester, for 166. Our s;erlal. The publication of the first instalment is post- poned owing to pressure on our space this week. The Journal Of fice and Works Will be closed to-morro w (Saturday) throughout the day, being the occasion of the workmen's annual outing.

MARRIAGE. SMITH-BATES.— On Sep t. 12th, at St Thomas's Church, by the Rev T'hos Lloyd, Vicar, John Henry, youngest son of Mr Thomas Smith, late of Mostyn, to Bessie, fourth daughter of the late Mr Matthew Bates, Merthyr Tydvil, and Mrs Bates, Rhyl. DEATHS. POWELL.—7th inst., a/sed 32, at Exfords Green, Shrewsbury, Charlotte A .nne, wife of John Phillip3 Powell. Sept. 5, at 8 Bello Vue Terrace, Sarah Charlotte, widow of the Rev William S. Burd, Vicar of Preston Goba Ids, Shropshire. JONES.—On the 13th inst., at BodelwyddaO Vicarage, the Rev. Ca non Owen Jones, Vicar ot Bodelwyddan, and :Precentor of St. Asaph Cathedral, aged 75. Funeral at Pentre Voelas. on Monday at 2 p.m.

The Promenade Band. TO THE EDITOR OF' THE RHYL JOURNAL. Sm,-N 0 doubt many o f your readers have seen the announcement that a com plimentry concert is to be gleJl to Herr de Mersy on Thu rsday, Sept 20th, in the Tovl" Hall, Rhyl. Now, sir, th is concert, although coming the thick of the Benefit Season, should merit RhT^ earnest and best possible support. F err de Mersy has demonstrated that it is possible t f provide and maintain th roughout the season a band 0 excellent musicians who!have proved themselves in way capable and thoro- aghly reliable men. We heard no complaints froi n our Band Stand relative the band not proving a, financial success neither year nor last, because B err de Mersy has proved that "j courtesy to all and by p rdviding good music (which be heard comfortably without unnecessary crahivg within a crowd) and not forgetting the thorough obaf work of his men to pleai ie the visitors and the publi" Rhyl, the thing can be done in a proper manner. 'j not every sea-side toi ?n, which is able to boast t"1* it is able to support a b) md of this class, and Rhyl 1110 r not allow Herr de Mers y after his past services to of onr local organisatio ns and incidental affairs, 1 any way suffer, if we, a s R^yl people, who to a man c» do great things in help ing this venture along, an h t proving to Herr de Me rsy and his excellent men Rhyl appreciates their efforts and that we are grft for their help, Let ill lyl come forward (it can if it .ig it into its head as few other towns can) and give RhY genial and popular bai ad a bumping house. A LOVER OF McStC.

CWM. ,0 It is very gratify ing to announce that our 5581 of YVork" proved decidedly satisfactory. 3 to 6 o'clock our friends from the distance the stall-holders b usy, and from 6 to 8 our people flocked to the room, and filled it to t close.—Mrs Edwards (the Palace), graciotisly opened the proceedings with a few trite and v'ete chosen words an d the Bishop in reply to a v° ot thanks gave u? some very interesting mio*» tion respecting the old church, showing its £ >rca\ea reputation in the: olden days.—To Mrs Char Lewis, and the Uisses Edwards, and othere holders, for thei r kindly assistance, and to who came to buy, we tender our hearty ^ha^ The amount received from things sold, c. was, C35 7s. 3d. donations, ;C13 IOS. 948 179 expenses, 19s. n ett, £47188. 3d. Mra Nicholsol; I on seeing the state of the church, most genero promised us a if urther donation of x- 50 towar j the work of rootc)ratiou.