Rhyl Journal

It never rains but that it pours is a saying not altogether devoid of truth when applied to Rhyl from a newspaper point of view. This week at any rate the commenta- tor has to content himself very largely with the crumbs that have fallen from the tables of hospitable bodies outside the urban boundary and like those ot which the Syro-Pbocnician woman of old spake, they have been readily picked up. However short may have been his allowance recently, the devouring critic may whet his teeth in confident anticipation of a good square meal next week. The allusion is of course to the bone-picking after the periodical meeting of the Rhyl Urban Council, which takes place next Monday. Affairs in the Rhuddlan civic chamber— to make use of a phrase worthy of a parish which was famous centuries before the notoriety it achieved before the Civil War by reason of the establishment there of a House of Parliament by the diplomatic King Edward I-seem to have again been righted after the little rupture of the 20th ult. Verily every cloud must possess a eilver lining, though there are ratepayers in Rhyl not likely to willingly believe that such is the case. Goodness only knows what reasonable grounds there were for Mr W Morris' rather irregular resignation of the chairmanship of the Rhuddlan Council. But now that be has been restored to the place of honour, which none of his col- leagues apparently covet, after (shall we say ?) a pretty liberal dose of soft soap, it is to be hoped that, unlike the oft-quoted course of true love, the machinery of which he is j ust now the head,will for ever more run smoothly. But how some people in exalted positions have to be humoured once they take what is commonly called the huff The good advice tendered by one member of that august body is certainly worth pondering, namely, the remarks of Mr Thompson, to the effect that far more good would result from a little enthusiasm over the subject of gardening and poultry keep- ing than from any amount of feeling arising out of disputes as to the dates of harvest festivals, the resignation of members, and other topics that are liable to disturb their equanimity. Judging by recent events, a series of lectures oir familiar sayings. and I heir meanings, of which the green-eyed monster" is a sample, would also afford I considerable enlightenment. Then members I of Parish Councils and other yublic bodies, if jocularly inclined, might indulge at any time in pet phrases without run- ning the risk of injuring the most sensitive of his fellow creatures. The Council chamber, whether municipal or parochial, is not the place for religious differ- ences or squabbles of any sort, though they cannot, unfortunately, always be avoided. The chief concern of those sent there should be the interest of the public, and we trust that the proposed lectures on gardening and poultry keeping, if arranged, will not be wasted upon the people of Rhudd- lan. There is more in the suggestion than is, perhaps, at first apparent to many. Not only to the parishioners of Rhuddlan would we commend these subjects for earnest con- sideration, but to all parishes. What branch of industry can be made more profitable with so little an outlay of capital, and what occupation at the same time affords so good an opportunity for the study of all that is beautiful in nature ? To quote the philosopher Bacon, gardening is the purest of human pleasures and the greatest refreshment to the spirit of man. Yet with such facilities for husbandry as are within the reach of nearly everybody, it is a reproach to the district that no institution exists for the encouragment of gardening in any way. tn n For the Flintshire portion at least of the St Asaph Union, of which Khyl is a contribu- ting parish, Rhuddlan would form a capital centre. We would at anyrate like to see established for this end of ;he beautiful Vale of Clwyd a floricultural and horticultural exhibition. Now is the time to set about the matter if it is to take effect next year. Flower shows, like bazaars—though we often hear people speak against what they term the iniquity of the latter-serve a most useful purpose. It has been well said on more than one occasion that of all the powers existing to encourage education there is nothing like an exhibition, which not only encourages home industries, but also develops Z5 the varied accomplishments of which people are capable. Very truly can this be said of exhibitions of garden produce, which elsewhere have done a great deal for the elevation of the people, especially in rural districts. Why, then, should not the ex- periment be given a fair trial here ? As for poultry keeping, many will tell us it is an unremunerative hobby. Testimony to this effect is, however, by no means unanimous, as is proved by the fact that in different parts of the country, thanks to the lively interest manifested in this department of agricultural pursuits by the National Poultry Organisation Society, poultry breed- ing and egg collection have been carried on by some communities at a substantial profit. Here, again, we have to reproach ourselves, not locally but as a nation, that foreigners hllvP bad the market practically to them- selves hence the importation to this country every year of millions of eggs and poultry, which might very well have been raised on British -oil. If it pays the foreigner to supply English markets it ought to be worth the Englishman's time to compete against him, for we cannot believe that the condi- tions prevailing on the Continent are more favourable to these pursuits than what we find here. The lessons which various gentlemen sought to teach the parents of children on the occasion of the opening of the new Board School at Prestatyn, though not yet bearing much fruit, have at least not been forgotten by all who had the oppor- tunity of listening to the words of wisdom, of which there was a generous outpouring. At the School Board meeting last Friday, reference was made to the interesting event of three weeks ago, and not unnaturally the subject of irregular attendance, which is such a deplorable blot on the elementary schools throughout the county, was also mentioned. The recital by the Chairman of an inter- view he had last week with the master of a regularly attended and highly efficient school ought, when perused by others, to stir them to envy. Now-a-days the qffer of rewards seems about the only effective inducement to parents to see that their boys and girls attend school punctually and regularly and give that attention to their studies which it ought to be the duty of parents to command. We are very much afraid that the much-talked-of inefficiency of our educa- tional system is largely the outcome of the neglect of parental respons bility. Bat We trust that the passing of the present bill will mean a new era for the parents and guardians of children as much as for the scholars themselves.

DEATH OF THE REV. R. TEMPLE. To many of our readers the Rev Rt. Temple was well known by repute. Born in Montgomeryshire in 182S, ordained in 1853, and becoming curate in Cheshire, he came acquainted with the late Mr Gladstone. He was in 18.37 appointed assistant inspector of schools, and in 1870 was placed in charge of the Montgomery division, which he re- signed in 1892. He was given a living in Surrey by Mr Gladstone in 189:3, which owing to illness he resigned in 1897. In politics deceased was a Liberal, and he frequently was a contributor of witty and pungent letters to local papers. He was a great walker, and was never married. On Friday his remains were buried at Llandysilio.

RHUDDLAN. British and Foreign Bible Society. A meeting of the Rhudd Ian auxiliary of this Society was held on Monday evening at the Boys' School, and there was a large attendance, presided over by the Rev B Evans. The meeting com- menced with the singing of a hymn. The Vicar then read a portion of the Scripture, and Sergeant Jones engaged in prayer. After a few appropriate remarks by the Chairman, the hon secretary (\lr Elias Roberts) read the report for the year, which showed satisfactory results. Mr R Morris (Hendref) proposed that the accounts be passed, and in doing so referred to the labours of the collectors, especially complimenting Miss Roberts, Abbey House, and Miss Williams, Penyffordd, upon the result ot their endeavours, which showed in their district an increase of over £ 3. He remarked that whatever Miss Roberts undertook to do, she invariably did it in a thorough manner, and he hoped all would endeavour to be possessed of the same earnestness. This was seconded by the Vicar, and passed. The deputation from the parent Society was the Rev Joseph Evans (C.M.), Denbigh, who delivered an interesting and instruc- tive address. The Rev David Jones also took part in the meeting. The collectors for the year were—Mrs Williams, Parliament Street Miss Griffiths, Old Post Office Miss Barnet, Parlia- ment Street; Miss Roberts, High Street; Miss Roberts, Abbey House Miss Williams, Pen-y- ilbrdd Alias Hughes, Penybont, and Mrs Jones, Coetia Postol. c. M. Literary Meeting. The programme of the above is now out of the' press, and copies can be obtained from Mr Wm Parry. High Street, the secretary. There are thirty-four subjects for competition, ten of them being musical pieces, and all the subjects are "open to the world."

ST. ASAPH. Vaccination Extraordinary. Mr Howatson, veterinary surgeon, has been instructed by the Master of the Flint and Denbigh Foxhounds (Major R Williams \V}nn) tj have all the hounds and puppies inoculated against dis- temper. The uewspaper recording the fact says that "the result is watched with interest."

GOSSIP. The Hebiew Congregation has removed its synagogue tc. fresh quarters, these being rooms on I the new Palfce and Arcade property. Persons w10 imagine that the "Welsh Colleges" are open only to students from the Principality may be 1 that at Aberystwyth there are this term 291 from Wales and 149 from England and other countiieSt The.townpeople of Rhyl are invited to attend f u u 17le<:t'irig °f the Improvement Association, to be held a1, the Town Hall on Wednesday even- in^'rJ*° ear what has been done in the past, and tooffer suggestions for the future. Letters can now be posted to-London, Liverpool, ilanchester, Ireland, &c., up to half-an-hour after midnight. These letters will be handed to the delfve^ are ac^resaec* to by the first morning Those wll0 go out into the deep sea are apparently more successful in catching fish than those landsmen who fix stake nets on the shore. One night recently outside Pwllheli, one boat brought in 26,000, a second 20,000, and a third 18,5uO. Thlee other boats brought up the total of 11.0,000 wrings 11- The new ij icensing Bill, which will shortly come into force, a, 3cta the public as well as the publican. We mean jhat it makes special provisions as affectin both. Some, of them are quite drastic. e understand that on Monday evening a meeting t.) expound the bill is to be held in the Boys Brigade.HalI. Under tIle presidency of he Rev Penri Evans, the Liand 11 dno Literary Society has carried in the affirmative by 26 votes to 7, that it is an advantage to marry young." Presumably nine- tenths of the members are young ladies, or else a decision of that kind would not be arrived at. Yet, after all, there is no accounting for what ex- travagant Motions even men are apt to display at Llandudno. r J yesterday afternoon the gas in the town was cut off for the purpose of connecting new plant at the gas works. As gas was not again available until live o clock some inconveniuce was caused, having regard to the fact that for lighting purposes candles had to be obtained, and as all shops were closed, these were not readily obtained. Our gas engine was not worked for five hours, and the works had to be temporarily closed atj half-past four. But this inconvijnience was unavoidable. A Llandudno contemporary states that Mr Fred Sarsol] "has emerged from retirement, and has re-commenced his auctioneer and valuing business nd Mr Sarson's reappearance on the scene is much welcomed." Mr Sarson's health broke down under the strain of over-work, and he had to pay the penalty for many months for having over-taxed his energies. A great portion of that time he spent in his native town of Rhyl, though various other climes were tried in the search for renewed health, and which we "vrust he has now obtained. The Eisteddfod arrangements are being satis- factorily proceeded with, and there appears to be considerable enthusiasm pervading the Executive Committee., The Committee is a really represen- tative one, though some may regard it as a little too Welshjr; there being only six Englishmen in a body of fifty members. After all, the real work will be performed by the sub-committees, and doubtless n.any of nationalities other than the Welsh will be4chosen on those bodies. The mischief maker is early at work. A mis- leading paragraph was sent to some of the daily papers, complaining that the position of some of the members of the Executive were low down on the poll. In the case of the members mentioned the explanation is simple enough. Many in the room were confident that the gentlemen named were certain of election, and the votes were given to those about whom a doubt existed. Of course, there were others lower on the list than they cared to be, simply because the voters did not set upon them the high value they place upon them- selves, Sunday last wasea pleasant'ideal autumn day, and it was pleasing to meet on the promenades, on the shore, and on the banks with a goodly number of pale-faced people down from inland centres for the week-end. We are glad to find that some sensible people are taking advantage of the cheap fares which bring them down in the winter as well as in the summer and we could wish that their number had been larger. The fact is, the regular inhabitants calmly accept the notion that visitors do not come here in autumn, winter, or spring, and it is only reason- able that other people should accept their de- cision. It is a wonder that lodging-house and hotel-keepers do not advertise apartments at low rates, and by a determined effort do some- thing to break through the present custom. If there were any climatic reasons for the total de- sertion of the district we would say nothing, but the weather during the past fortnight has been as mild as during the summer, and this is the rule. Of course there are periods of cold, disagreeable weather here as elsewhere, but the whole district is many degrees warmer than Shropshire or Warwickshire, and there are not five minutes' snow here for every day in the Midlands.

PRESTATYN. Billiard Handicap. A billiard handicap is being arranged in connec- tion,with the Constitutional Club, and entries for the same close at the end of this week. Messrs W Galliers and W A Broad are acting as secretary and treasurer respectively for the competition, which promises to afford an interesting series of encounters. Ping-Pong Tournament. At the National Schools last Thursday a fairly large company assembled to participate in a ping- pong tournament, for the arrangement of which Mr T B Griffith was mainly responsible. The object in view was the raising of funds to defray the expenses of cleaning and reaovating the old school- room. The afternoon events resulted as follows:— Ladies' singles—1 Mrs T B Griffith, 2 Miss Briggs gentlemen's singles—1 Mr Griffith Jones, Mostyn, 2 Mr TilsJn Jones. Similar competitions took place in the evening, Mrs Griffiths and Miss Briggs again being first and second respectively in the ladies' singles, and Mr Grosvenor, Rhyl, and Mr Griffith Jones respectively first and second in the*gentlemen's singles, Altogether the proceed- ings passed off in a deservingly successful manner. Horeb Wesleyan Chapel. The anniversary of the above place of worship was celebrated on Sunday and Monday by the holding of special services. The ministers taking part were the Revs E Humphreys (Rhyl) and T Iselfryn Hughes (Birkenhead) and Mr William Roberts (Maentvvrog). Collections were taken at the different services in aid of the trust fund. Insufficient Capital. The Official Receiver has issued his statement in the case of John Owen Clark, Prestatyn, saddler, ion whose petition a receiving order was made on the 21st of October. The debtor assigns "insufficient capital as the cause of failure, and the Official Receiver observes :— The bankrupt commenced business as a harness maker and saddler at Prestatyn in January, 1895, with only jE8 capital. Prior to that he had been a piece-master employed by a firm of harness makers in Birmingham, and was in receipt of wages averaging from 35s. to £2 per week. The bankrupt was married in 1898, and hi& wife now claims all the furniture at Brynymor upon the ground that it was bought entirely out ot her own savings as a domestic seivant. This claim will have to be investigated. The bankrupt has scheduled 32 unsecured creditors, and of these 9 have claims amounting to £10 and upwards. £ 93 has been scheduled in respect of money lent by two creditors, one of whom is a professional money lender. There are 32 unsecured creditors for £ 330, and £3 9s due for rent and rates. On the assets side the stock-in-trade is valued at £ 100, having cost £ 190, and there are fixtures worth X5, Fifty- one book debts are estimated to produce 939 10s; and thus the deficiency is shewn to be £171.

The Curfew Bell. The horn and the discord no longer is heard In village, hamlet, and lane Before His siltar we can worship in peace, In churches and dear loved fane. Methinks in the distance I heir the bell, The curfew of days long gone by, Calling the weary to the shelter of home, To rest when danger is nigh. The vesper bell in the evening so calm, I know the music so well The echo is heard in valley and plain, In green tields, hamlet, and dell. The vesper for prayer, the curfew for rest, How welcome the call ought to be, Uniting in prayer, then siveet repose, When darkness covers land and the lea. Kinmel Street, Rhyl- M. JONES.

-3PJ2I3H AND FOREIGN BIBLE SOCIETY. t WELSH AD ENGLISH MEETINCS AT RHYL. I The annuajl meeting of the Rhyl Welsh auxiliary of the above Society was held in the Town Hall on Tuesday night, under the presidency of Mr Hugh Edwai'ds (Huwco Penmaen), who, it may be worth while recording, occupied a chair which at one time belonged to the late Thomas Charles of Bala, one of the founders of the Bible Society, and now is in th<! possession of Mr 1) P Morris. After prayer had been offered by the Rev Robert Hughes, Nlr,A Rowlands, hon secretary, presented the annual rejport, demonstrating the progress made by the branch in the way of subscriptions, &c. The adoption of this was unanimously agreed to on the motion of the Rev R Richards, seconded by the Rev pavid Lewis, Mr Rowlands also being thanked for past services. The Chairman, in the course of a brief address, dealt in poetic terms with the associations wcich the presence of Thomas Charles' chair revived. On the motion of the Rev. \V H Evans a resolution wac passsd acknowledging the good wol-k done by the Society both at home and abroad. In support of this the Rev. D Charles Edwards (a great grandson of Thomas Charles) spolie> and as the Society's deputation, he allude(i specially to its work in Italy, dealing with the subject in a very interesting way. The singing was led by a choir under the conductorship of Mr James Dowe;ll, jun. At the close a vote of thanks was accorded the collectors and all who had helped in connection with the meeting, on the motion of Mr John Jones (Kinmel Street), seconded by Mr Joseph Williams. I The English meeting of the local branch was held at the1 same place on Wednesday evening, Mr R M Hiigh- Jones, J.P., presiding "ver a thin attendance. A portion of Scripture having been read and player offered by:tlie Rev E E Ingham, The Chairman, in the course of an introductory address, said the object of the Bible Society was clear and definite, namely, to give every nation the Bible in its own language. It was left. to each body of Christians to provide teachers and inter- preters for the different countries ;,1) which they laboured, but the provision of the Bible, which was indispensable to all, was a task that the Bible Society had to perform. If for no other reason than this, it emphasised the common bond of unity between Christians, and therefore the Society justly claimed th¡;ir support. It was a good thing to remember that however much they might differ on points of doctrine, they all based their faith upon what Mr Gladstone called the impregnable rock of Holy Scripfure. The Bible Society had translated the Bible into 361 different languages, and it supplied t'ie bulk of the Scriptures used by mis- sionaries in foreign fields. In fact it was becoming more and more conspicuous as "the indispensable storehouse and arsenal from which all missionaries must draw their munitions of war." Its expendi- ture amounted to nearly a quarter of a million a year, and this fact led the speaker to ask Are we doing our share by way of contributions towards that vast silm ? What had been done in Rhyl on behalf of the Society they would learn presently from the annual report. At any rate he did not think they could say too much of the work done by the collectors, for collecting was a rather thank- less task. They were greatly indebted to those who had undertaken this work, and he was glad to hear that the result of their efforts during the past year was favourable by comparison with previous results (applause). Mr A Rowlands, hon secretary for Rhyl, then presented a report, similar to that read at the Welsh meeting on the previous evening. It showed that the Vear began with a balance in hand of £ 3 3s 2d. "The amounts of collections at the last annual meetings were English, f2 10s 9d Welsh, Jbl Os 5d. The subscriptions, which amounted to f40 Os 2d, thus showing an increase of nearly £41 on the previous year, were accounted for as follows: District No 1, Mrs Hughes (River Street), Miss Price (Mill Bank), and Mrs Davies (Albert Street), collectors, £ 4 !7.s 5d, a little less than in the previous year district No 2, Miss E Jones (Elm House) and Miss Williams (Peterborough House), collectors, EIO 12s, as compared with £ 4 18s the previous year; district No 3, Mrs Peake, collector, f7 7s. an increase of 14s district No 4, Miss Williams (56 West Parade), collector, £4 18s, a decrease of 9s Gd district No 5, Mr Ernest Jones (30 John Street), collector, JE2 2s district No 6, Miss Price (High Street) and Miss Dowell (Wellington Road), collectors, 94 3s 9d, or 18s less than the year before district No 7, Mrs T D Jones and Mrs J T Jones, collectors, f6, the same as before. The previous year's total was :E37 118 2d. With bank interest the total receipts came to 946 15s 9d. Of that amount i35 had been handed over to the parent Society, and after making other payments for printing, &c, there remained a balance in hand of E5 13s fid. For a town like Rhyl he thought f35 represented a very small contribution to so deserving a cause, and it certainly was not much to their credit to allow the local branch of the R.S.P.C A,, which, it was true, embraced Abergele and Pensarn, to raise in one year £ 20 more than they had done for the Bible Society, be the other institution ever so deserving. Concluding, he expressed thanks to all the collec- tors, especially those two ladies who volunteered at almost the eleventh hour to collect in district No 2, and who had done splendidly (applause) The Rev W J Davies, who said he had been requested to express regret at the absence of the Vicar of Rhyl, proposed the adoption of the report, together with a resolution of thanks to the officers and committee of the local auxiliary, especially the collectors whose diligent work was so greatly appreciated. This was carried with acclamation after having been seconded by the Rev. I) G Lewis, who made the confession that it was the first time he had appeared in public in support of the British and Foreign Bible Society, giving as his reason that the Baptist denomina- tion, to which he belonged, had to maintain a Bible Society of its own, because the British and Foreign Bible Society was not at one time doing its duty as they wanted it to (laughter). That evening, however, he could heartily approve of the work of the Society in whose cause they were gathered, and he commended it to the support of all. The Rev J C Stuart proposed that this meet- ing expresses its unbounded satisfaction and gratitude to God for the great and glorious work done by the British and Foreign Bible Society at home and abroad, and pledges itself to renewed prayers and exertions for the continuation and increase of its marvellous prosperity throughout the world." It was a strongly worded resolution, he remarked, but he could heartily approve of it. The fundamental principles on which the Society was based were (1) We have faith in the Bible and can trust it to the people, and (2) we have faith in the people and can trust them with it (hear, hear). They were not afraid of the Bible going anywhere and everywhere. They believed it would speak its own message and tell its own glorious tale of the salvation of perishing men. Therefore, they had no hesitation in sending it forth without note or comment. The Rev D Charles Edwards supported the reso- lution, and at the outset of an address dealing with the work of the Society on the Continent, com- pared the amount forwarded by Rhyl to the parent Society during the past year with what had been done by other auxiliaries in the same period, men- tion being made of Llanrwst ( £ 50), Bala (over £100), and Dolgelley (£70 to £80). He had no doubt that with a little more enthusiasm even better results than these could be obtained in Rhjl. The annual circulation of Bibles turned out by the Society was increasing year by year, in fact the output two years ago was considerably over 5,000,000, which represented twelve copies per minute for every hour, night and day, of that par- ticular year. This alone would give some idea of the great need for increased support if the noble work of the Society was to be continued, and its sphere extended. The usual votes of thanks, and a collection on behalf of the Society, brought the meeting to a close.

LIST OF VISITORS. At 18 River Street (Mrs Hughes)-Mrs Cooke, Mrs Flint, B'ham.

Welsh National Eisteddfod, 1904. TO THE EDITOR OF THE RHYL JOURNAL. SIR,-Kindly allow me through the medium of your paper to protest against the very unwise and entirely un- called for remarks made in the "Liverpool Echo" of Monday last by a correspondent of that paper. He states "that apparently there had been an organised voting for candidates of tke Calvinistic Methodist body at the meeting of guarantors on the '29th ult." As a mem- ber of the C.M. body and one of the guarantors who vetal for the executive, I emphatically deny the assert;on that there was any understanding amongst the (J.M. at that. meeting, or before, as to candidates; and if the correspon- dent had taken the trouble to look through the list of guarantors, and also the members elected on the execu tive, he would have seen that the number of Churchmen and Methodists among the guarantors are very equal, the Church having a slight majority on the executive they have been elected just as equally, viz, 13 Churchmen and 12 Calvinistic Methodists. But in a matter of this sort it is not a question of party, but that the best men for the work should be elected, and I believe that the best men from amongst the guarantors have been elected, No matter how many votes each member received, they have dl equal rights. So that I fail to see where this corres- J pondent managed to tind anything to grumble at. He ) jvidently has neither love for, nor interest in,the Eistedd- < od, or he would not by his uncalled for sneers try to create discord amongst us at this early stage. Trusting hat this will be the last attempt, and believing we may ook forward to a very successful Eisteddfod, allow me to lign myself A WELLWISHER,

PRESTATYN NOTES. (CONTRIBUTED;. I I regret to report that a most serious epidemic has broken out in our town. The disease has for some time being working its way slowly and insidiously, but it was thought by those having knowledge and experience of the intricacies of the complaint that it might wear itself out and dis- appear altogether. We were therefore nursed into a state of false:security. I am sorry to say last week the disease assumed a most malignant form, is still spreading, and the end no one can foresee. The doctors confess they are puzzled to account for it, and all the orthodox remedies known to the pro- fession have been administered to the sufferers with no satisfactory result. It spares neither age nor sex, the old and the young it attacks indis- criminately, poverty is no safeguard, riches give no immunity, for rich and poor under these sad circumstances are on an equality. It is not the measles that has made its appearance, this we could endure with patience neither is it typhoid, this we would submit to with resignation nor is it that dread scourge smallpox that has selected us for its victims, even this we would bear with stoical fortitude no, something more terrible far than all these has chosen to make us the sport of a cruel fate. I was hoping that the angel of retribu- tion would have mercy on us and pass us by, but 'twas not to be, and for our sins we must bear the punishment due. There is nothing now left for us to do except to repent and pray that the infliction may soon be lifted from us. I am sure to have the sympathy of all sane and intel- ligent people when I mention that we are in the throes of that diabolical invention to waste precious time, PING-PONG. Ping-pong is in the air we breathe, and haunts us in our dreams. Ping- pong, like our evil genius, follows us wherever we go, tempting us from the narrow safe way into the broad and dangerous one. 0, ye victims, beware be warned in time, pause, I implore you, before it is too late, before you let the craze saturate and engross all your thoughts to the neglect of better and nobler objects. The tendency of a craze like this, same as all bad habits, is to grow until a certain culminating point is reached. The ping- pong tournament held here last week may be the precursor of a few more, and then possibly will come reaction. In the meantime ping-pong holds the field to the exclusion of more intellectual topics, and its death and burial will come as a happy relief to all not,infected, and a blessing in disguise to the unfortunate victims. Week-end trips do not seem to be much encouraged by the London and North Western Railway Company along this coast. From Friday afternoon or Saturday to Monday morning at the sea-side even in winter comes as an agreeable break in the routine of money grubbing to those who can afford it, and if special terms were offered people of limited incomes would gladly avail themselves of the opportunity. The Great Western Railway Company have issued a time-table in pamphlet form intimating their reduced fares on week-days, early closing afternoons, and week-ends, and if the same facilities were offered by our rail- way company, it would prove a great boon to many. The local public bodies might do worse than take this matter up in the interests of the seaside resorts on the North Wales coast. The upper Towyn district, although contiguous to Prestatyn, is really in the parish of Meliden, and therefore under the benign sway of the Meliden Parish Council. The meetings of this body are never reported in the newspapers, and I have been informed are conducted in the W elsh language. These arrangements are happy ones indeed. Useless criticism is avoided, patronising instruction by outsiders is never extended, and would, perhaps, as is usually the case, be despised if it were differences and angry discussions, should there be any, never see the light of day. This excellent mode of procedure redounds to the advan- tage of the Council and the parishioners. If other Councils of higher status were to take an example from this humble and unpretentious body of hard- working representatives in this respect, the public would lose very little, and the reputation of many members for sanity and intelligence would be greatly increased We could well be spared the harrowing details connected with such newspaper headings as Rowdy Scenes in a Town Council," "Fracas in the Urban District Council- Exciting Scene," &c, &c. The members of the Meliden Parish Council have never committed themselves in this unseemly way. Judging by the content that reigns around in the Towyn, the absence of all grumbling and complaints on the part of the dwellers therein, I come to the conclusion that everybody is satis- fied with the present order of things. There is an avoidance of all vexatious and irritating re- strictions, and regulations of a revolutionary character are ignored on the part of the Parish Council. Affairs, therefore, in general, work I smoothly, and when this is the case the height of good government has been reached. The only official whom the householders come in contact with is the rate collector. They are always pleased to see him and pay up without grumbling. Does not the Council look well after the roads ? Does it not look keenly after the sanitary arrangements, smelling out the slightest defects ? Are not the rates low ? Truly, the Towynites have much to be thankful for. There is a movement at present hanging fire to join the district to the urban one of Prestatyn. Let me conclude withjthe words of the "immortal bard," Better bear the ills we have than fly to others we know not of."

ABERGELE. Dinner. The first annual dinner in connection with the Abergele and District Homing Society, of which Mr W Roscoe is secretary, was held at the Glynne Hotel, Pensarn, under the presidency of Mr Arundale, of Colwyn Bay, on Tuesday evening. An evening of conviviality followed the repast. Our Member. Mr John Herbert Roberts is described by the Pall Mall Gazette as a typical and enthusiastic young Welshman, whose father was M.P. before him, and left the Sunday Closing Act as a legacy for Wales. Mr Roberts is a Radical in spite of his wealth, and he has the advantage over many politicians of having travelled much. He has been on every continent but Africa. The Robertsea have been notable folks in Denbighshire for half a century, and the vigorous John Herbert has no difficulty in retaining his hold on his constituency. He was sent back in 1900 unopposed, but though he had once Colonel Cornwallis-West against him, he has never known a majority which was not in four figures, and his familiarity with the life of the county is his great local qualification for the seat. He is a magistrate and a county councillor, and treasurer of a college.

DEATHS. November 4th, at Prengwyn, Dyserth, Jane Owens, aged 70 years. Hi-C.IIES.-On the 2nd,inst., at Terfyn, Whitford, Holywell, Mr Henry Hughes, aged 80 years. JO-IES.- On the 1st inst., at Wrexham, Mary, widow of the Rev. Isaac Jones.—Interred at Llangollen Cemetery on the 4th inst. J ONES.-Oo the 28th ult., at Penryn, Cornwall, aged 47 years, Roger Hughes Jones, M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., formerly of Prince's-road, Liverpool, son of the late Mr E T Jones, J.P., Denbigh.

[IN MKMORIAM]. In sad, but loving, memory of Gwen Jones, for nearly 27 years my dearly loved and loving friend and companion, who died at the Royal Alexandra Hospital, November 8th, 1901. A wound too deep for time to heal." Until the day break And the shadows flee away."

Free Reading Rooms. TO THE EDITO] OF THE RHYL JOURNAL. DEAR SIR,-I have had eight kind offers to help to start the above. Five have promised papers, periodicals and books, and three have promised money. Everyone seems to agree as to the need, and I am surprised there is not more willingness to help. I do not think it would be worth while opening rooms unless there is sufficient promised to keep open till the end of April. If there are sufficient promises to do this before next Thurs- lay, a meeting will be called of all subscribers to Tiake arrangements. If not, will those who have promised accept my thanks for their willingness jo help. Thanks for your insertion of my letter.— VTours truly, EDWARD JONES. 8 Beechwood Road, Rhyl, Nov. 6, 1902. P.S.-Cash promised is f2 10s and the total amount required would be about X15.

RHYL DISTRICT. |; For "Home-made Bread' and Confectionery, you can't do better han call at JONES BROS', Liverpoo House, Prestatyn. JONES BROS, Prestatyn, still ead with the Challenge Blend Tea," and are unsurpassed with their Bread and Cakes Ladies' Kid Gloves, Lined Silk, in Browns, Tans, Fawns, Greys and Black. Patent Dome Fasteners, Is 11 Ad per pair, wear guaranteed. Simply perfection. Obtainable only at HUBBARD'S, Commerce House 21 and "25 Wellington Road, Rhyl. HATWOOD'S, 35 Queen Street, Rhyl.—For Fishing Tackle, price and quality cannot be beaten. Flies from 1 dozen. The oldest Fishing Tackle dealers in Wales established over 40 years. Fifty gross of choice Flies choose from at Hatwood's All New Goods for Autumn and Winter Wear. Splen- did display this week at HUBBARD'S, 24 and 25 Wellington Road. Club Cards taken and lid in the Shilling discount given. ARCADE BAZAAR, Wellington Road. Christmas Club can be joined at anytime. Children paying in contributions at any time can have them saved up for Christmas presents. CHRISTMAS CARDS (Photographic). Large Assort- ment; all prices.—Special Line— Stamp Portraits, 9 for Is IS for Is 6d. See Specimens at the Studio. Orders should be given early.—Ernest Jones, Photo- grapher, 27 Queen Street, Rhyl. Mr and Mrs Hulley and family desire to offer their grateful thanks to the many fiiends and the firemen who so ably assisted them with the fire which broke out on their premises last Friday also for the prompt action of Inspector Pearson and his staff. Great credit is due to them all for the able manner in which they guarded the premise.. But for the kind assistance of so many who so readily helped the fire might have terminated very seriously indeed. 398 B.—A communication is in the office for Advertiser who wrote October 23. A Rowdy-Dowdy Russian. At the Town Hall last Friday, before Mr J H Ellis, a Russian sailor answering to the name of Otto Grooming was brought up in custody charged with being drunk and disorderly in Wellington Road on the previous day. Defendant, who belongs to the crew of one of the vessels anchoring in Foryd Harbour, pleaded guilty, and evidence having been given by P.C. Roberts, he was fined 2s 6d and 6s 4d costs. Presbyterian Social. In connection with the English Presbyterian Chapel, a "social took place in the Princes St. Schoolroom on Monday evening, the same being given by Mrs J Verrier Jones, Mrs Garson Allen, Miss Westrop and Miss Pierce. The proceedings were of a most agreeable character, a vocal and instrumental programme being gone through, to which the following were contributors :—Mrs Bevan, Miss Parker Davies, Miss Lily Evans, Miss Blake, and Mr Robert Jones. Mrs Bromley kindly volunteered to give another social shortly. A collection, amounting to £ 3, was taken in aid of the organ fund. St Mary's Social. The second of the socials connected with St Mary's Church was held at the New Era Hotel, West Parade, on Monday evening, when a goodly number were present, who enjoyed greatly the various pames and the musical items rendered by Misses May and Ada Shepherd, Miss Dillon, Messrs R Hanlon, P Byrne, aad Willis. Father Swift presided, and was supported by Father Kenner. The National Anthem closed a most pleasant evening. The next social will be held on Monday night, and will consist of tableaux, sketches, and songs in character. The Royal College of Music Scholarships. We desire to call the attention of our readers to the advantages offered by the Scholarships of the Royal College of Music, South Kensington, London of which His Majesty the King is the Patron and H.R.H. The Prince of Wales, President. Prelimi- nary Examinations for 11 Free Open Scholarships will be held on Jany, 28th, 1903, in various local centres throughout the United Kingdom. The Scholarships will be allotted as followsCom- position 1, Singing 3, (1 Male, 2 Females), Piano- forte 2, Organ 1, Violin 3, Violoncello 1. The Scholarships are open to all classes of His Majesty's subjects within the ages stated in the particulars issued to applicants. They eatitle the holder to free musical education at the College, and are as a rule tenable for three years. In some cases grants towards maintenance are added. Further information and official forms of entry can be obtained from the Registrar, Royal College ot Music, Prince Consort Road, South Kensington, London, S.W. No entry form can be received after 29th December, 1902. Bad Trade, Short Season, and Competition. The Official Receiver has issued his statement of the affairs of Charles Christopher Naylor, Queen St., refreshment-house keeper, on whose petition a receiving order was made on the 23rd ult. The debtor alleges as the cause of failure bad trade, short season, and considerable opposition," and the Official Receiver observes :-The bankrupt com- menced business in March, 1895, as a Temperance Hotel Proprietor and Restaurant Keeper, at No 11 Queen Street, Rhyl. At that time he had only f30 capital, and he purchased a Temperance Hotel business for £ 200. In order to complete the purchase the bankrupt borrowed f200 from his relatives, and this sum is still owing. Prior to 1895, the bankrupt was a joiner at the Crewe Railway Works, and during the past few years he has been employed as a cabinet maker in Rhyl, working about six months in the year at a weekly wage averaging from 27s 6d to 30s. In 1900, the bankrupt entered into a partnership with one A D Melvin, with a view of carrying on Diorama and Variety Entertainments. The venture resulted in a loss and the partnership was dissolved by mutual arrangement. The whole of the bank- rupt's furniture and effects appear to have been sold on the 4th October last to satisfy distress for rent. The balance of the proceeds of sale were paid to the bankrupt's creditors for distribution among his creditors, but bankruptcy intervened. The bankrupt has scheduled 28 unsecured creditors, 7 of whom have claims amounting to £10 and upwards. There is f309 3s scheduled in respect of money borrowed, and of this sum f55 108 is alleged to be owing to a professional Money Lender. There are 28 unsecured creditors for X560, and one secured for X16, creditors for rates A:] I 13s; partly secured for £15. On the assets side there is a sum of £10 19s, making the deficiency X549 10s. A False Alarm and a Real One. Something suggestive of the above happened in Rhyl last Friday, both occurrences attracting con- siderable attention. In the morning the usual signal summoning the lifeboat men to practice was given, and was promptly responded to, the boat being launched in the presence of a large crowd and remaining out at sea for about an hour and a half. The second alarm betokened an outbreak of fire, which occurred at ab jut 8 p.m., and which by the vigorous ringing of the fire bell was respon- sible for the gathering of a large body of anxious spectators in Kinmel Street, whence the alarm originated. It appears that some quilts were being aired before a fire in the kitchen of the Castle Temperance Hotel, of which Mr Hulley is the occupier. No one being in the room at the time, it cannot with certainty be stated how the fire began, but it is supposed that a spark from the fire- place ignited the goods hanging on the horse. Being of a highly inflammable nature,they were soon demo- ished, and before the outbreak was discovered the entire room was fully ablaze. Mr Hulley was the first whose suspicions were aroused, and upon opening the kitchen door, he found that they were unfortunately too well founded. No time was lost in givinp the alarm, and in a remarkably short space of time both the Fire Brigade and Inspector Pearson and his staff were upon the scene. After about half an hour's strenuous exertion the flames were overcome, though not before they had exten- ded to the entrance hall, and badly scorched the stairway. Thanks to the promptitude with which the summons for help was responded to, the fire was confined chiefly to the kitchen, thus avoiding what'might otherwise have been a most destructive outbreak. As it was, damage was done to the amount of about £60, which, we understand, is covered by insurance. "Pedigrees and Blue Stockings." The above was the subject of an interesting and instructive lecture given on Tuesday evening by Mr A Foulkes Roberts, of Denbigh, at a meeting of the Princes Street (Presbyterian) Literary Society. The Rev J. Verrier Jones (pastor) was in the chair. Mr Foulkes Roberts dealt chiefly with the historic Salusbury family, their ancestors and descendants, whose original home so far as Wales is concerned was Lleweni Hall, near Denbigh. The hero of his story was Colonel William Salusbury, governor of Denbigh Castle and its famous defender during the Civil War. In his day this worthy was commonly called "Blue Stockings" by reason of the particular colour of the hose he wore, and it was he who during a siege which lasted a tull five months, resisted the Parliamentary forces under General Mytton, and would not surrender the castle until a special mission was dispatched from the King requesting him to do so. Col Salusbury, it was explained, was a descendant of the celebrated Catherine of Berain, of whom an interesting story was told. Her first husband was a Salusbury, 1nd on her return from his funeral Wynne of Grwydir (Llanrwst) made her an offe-r of marriage. She did not exactly reject him, but told hun that on the way to the interment of her late husban d, Clough of Denbigh had already made a similar offer and had been accepted. She would, howeve be willing to make Wynne her third husband if she survived Clough. This she really did in fact she married and survived her fourth husband, Thelwall of Plas-yn-Ward. Her father was thrice married, and the remark that "he was a descend- ant of Henry VIII provoked a very audible smile, she evidently having inherited one quality at least of his. Catherine of Berain on her death was interred in Llannefydd Churchyard, this taking place exactly 311 years ago. Another famous Blue Stocking"formed the lecturer's heroine, she being so-called because of her connect ion with what was known as a Blue Stocking Club. This was Mrs Thrale, the friend of Samuel Johnson and another descendant of Catherine of Beraine, and naturally a very entertaining subject she formed. At the close Mr Foulkes Roberts was heartily thanked for his paper. Pleasant Saturday Evening. The second of the series of popular Saturday even- ing concerts took place in the Boys' Brigade Hall, Vale Road. on the 1st it.st, and was presided over by Coun- cillor .T W Jones, who ably discharged the duty assigned to him about half-way tlirout>h the programme. The Chairman congratulated Mr A Lewis Jones and (those associated with him on the continued success nf th ,«P 'J' gatherings. The increasing popularity was eloquent testimony of their excellence. While the primary object of these concerts was to relieve somewhat the monotony of the long winter months by providing a pleasant and diverting ectertainment.they also accomplished a desirable object in tne bringing out of talent. Were it not for such opportonities as these, "full many a flower would be allowed to blush unseen and waste its perfume on the desert air." The opportunity of displaying in public the gifts which God had bestowed upon them was a healthy stimulus to the better cultivation of those gifts. Siugers and others who had to appear on that platform knew that their best was expected of them, and accordingly they so perfected themselves in their particular accomplishment, as to tcquit themselves worthily (applause). The encourage- ment which such gatherings gave to young people would also have its influence upon their social and home life. They also inspired setf-cotitidence and self-reliance, quali. ties whiclijwoulil not only be of value to young people in an artistic sense, but which were also essential elements in social and commercial success (applause). The committee (of which Mr A Lewis Jones is secretary) were able to secure an ent'rtailling variety of artistes, whose performances the audience thoroughly appreci- ated. The items were as follows Pianof >rtj duet, Sleighing on the Lake," Misses Lettie Hughes and Eva Jones; song, "The old folks at home," Mr Charles Williams recitation, "Fidelity," Miss Sarah C Jones; song, "Nazareth," Mr Cbas. Kirtland: Chairman's address violin solo (with piano accompaniment by Mr Bibby), Miss May Hughes (encore); song, "Alice, where art thou," Mrs Bellman song, Mr Robert Jones; reading, "The Parrot," Mr R J Hughes (sanitary inspector); song, Miss Eunice Jones; song Baner ein gwlad (Dr Parry), Mr Dan Jones duet, "Very suspicious," Miss Thomas and Mr Robert Jones (encore) pianoforte duet Misses Winnie and Madge Jones; song, "Tatters," Mr Chas. Kirtland. Miss Mabel Hughes again acted as ac- companist. Mr A Lewis Jones, in proposing a vote of thanks to the Chairman and all who had taken part, and which was enthusiastically accorded, stated that the committee had two schemes on hand in regard to these concerts. The programme (Ircw attention to the first competitive meeting, which would take place on the loth inst, and should this prove a success other competitive meetings would be held from time to time. The other scheme was occasional lantern lectures of a highly in- teresting and popular character, the arranging of which the committee have in hand. Foryd Bridge. We are informed that the firm responsible for the London and North Western Railway Company's new viaduct (Messrs Heenan and Froude, Ltd.) have secured the contract for strengthening Foryd Bridge. This work has been long delayed, but we are glad it is now really in hand. Rhyl Church Cuild v. Old Colwyn Reserves. The above match was played at Old Colwyn on the 1st inst. Rhyl p.ayed up the hill in the first half with the wind in their favour. After the kic k- off the Guild pressed very hard and scored a few minutes after the ball was set rolling, while Old Colwyn equalised just before the interval. On re- suming the Guild played very hard, and penetrated the goal three times and Old Colwyn scoring twice, the Guild were victors by one goal. Final :— Rhyl Church Guild 4, Old Colwyn Reserves 3. The following rendered service for the Guild: Goal, T J Williams backs, R W Williams and W Evans halves, F Bell, R Jones, and W Stubbs; and W Roberts, W Wilson, W M Jones, T Venables, and B Collis, forwards. Clwyd Street C M. Literary Society and the Education Bill. At a meeting on Monday night of the above Society, of which the Rev S T Jones is piesident, a debate took place upon the subject Does the Education Bill at present before Parliament meet the needs of the country ?" Mr Daniel Evans opened with a paper in favour of the bill. His arguments were to the effect that the Government by the introduction of this bill had made an honest effort to raise the education of the country to a higher state of efficiency. There was no doubt about the need for educational reform. This country was behind most countries on the Continent and the United States of America in its educational system, as was proved by the fact that whereas a few years ago we were the leading commercial nation, it was to be feared that at present we had taken a back seat in that respect. More than that, our difficulties as a commercial nation would probably be increased as time went on. We still had the capital as a country, and the energy and wish to lead in commercial matters, but it was our educational system that was at fault and that had caused us to fall behind rival countries. No sooner, however, had the Government recognised this and drafted a bill to solve the problem, than a terrible outcry against it was raised by the Nonconformists, who were clamouring that rate an'l tax-aided edu- cation should be accompanied by what they termed popular representation on the controlling bodies to whom the education of the country was in future to be entrusted. He maintained that the bill was a decided advance and improvement upon anything of its kind that the country had yet had. It recognised that education should be made com- pulsory all over the country, and in his opinion tended to raise its etiiciency. As to the outcry against the denominational schools having two- thirds of the management, he believed that no fair- mindei educationalist-Churchman or Noncon- formist—could deny that the Government had grappled with a very knotty question manfully and fairly. We had to recognise the fact that the Church party had at enormous cost provided schools in upwards of 8,000 parishes where no other schools were provided; and to take them over from the clergy and their friends who had estab- lished them without allowing them a substantial voice in their future management Iwould be de- cidedly unfair. Seeing that the Government pro- posed to place the secular portion of the education of the country entirely in the hands of local authorities, he could not see what hardship was imposed upon anyone in giving those who built the schools the ruling power so far as religious instruc- tion was concerned. It was desirable also that the Scriptures should be taught in elementary schools, otherwise there would be millions of children brought up without any religious educa- tion whatever. Mr Balfour, the Premier, who had introduced the bill, was generally recognised as a Presbyterian, and surely that was a guarantee to them as Calvinistic Methodists that he would not do them any injustice. Mr Pennant Williams, who took up the negative side of the question, then read a paper in which he sought to drive home the different arguments employed by those who have been obstructing the progress of the bill both in and out of Parliament. Other members having spoken for and against, the question when put to the vote was negatived by a slight majority, many present not voting either way. Cirls' Friendly Society. In connection with the local branch of this institution, of which Mrs Greenstreet is secretary, a gathering of a social character took place at the Church House on Tuesday evening, the room being decorated for the occasion by the Misses N Davies, N Evans, and Norman. The proceedings began with a tea; a musical programme followed, and amongst others taking part were Rev. T Jenkins and the Misses Bond, Parker Davies (recitation), Lizzie Evans, and Furber. Various games and other amusements were indulged in, all these items coutributing towards a very enjoyable evening. The Vicar and several of the associates were present. Hallowe'en at the Queen's Palace. The numerous interesting rites and ceremonies connected with All Hallows Eve are fast falling into desuetude. At one time, amongst Celts at any rate, it was one of the three great festivals of the year, marking not only the end of the summer and the beginning of winter, but the end of the year, for the Celtic year begins on November 1. In token of this fires blazed from the heights, and at the beginning of the year youths and maidens sought by means of various divinations to peep into futurity. Whether it was by accident or design that a Cinderella dance was arranged to take place at the Queen's Palace on Hallowe'en we cannot positively state, but this is what happened, and a very successful event it proved to be. Certainly there is no other building in the town or for mles around so well adapted for anything of the kind, and it is satisfactory to know that the p ,rts put forward by the proprietors of the I alace to assist the funds of the Royal Alexandra Hospital were very well supported. The ball asted from 11 p.m. until one o'clock the following Saturday) morning.—The Palace this week is well tvorth a visit by reason of the excellent variety company now appearing. The artistes include