Rhyl Record and Advertiser

St. Asaph- -J* gives us pleasure to hear that Messrs. A Jones, of Rhuddlan, and Harold a' ofi of i>ias Coch, St. Asaph, have been Strict Ato th€ Midland Audit District by the iJistrict Auditor. Tones is a member of wLs°'«d the University of T Mr* Easterby is also a member of the Lniversity of London and of the Middle T€TP 5 T £ CSe gentlemen were educated under Dr. Easterby. Tlheir success makes an- other valuable addition to the many others prev- iously obtained; by the pupils of that old and famous institution.

RHYL. THE COUNTY DENTAL ASSOCIATION Limited, has removed to Heald House, 32, ater Street, Rhyl. Consultation and advice free. Hours of attendance, a.m. to 8pm daily (Saturdays excepted). Mr. F. Sarson, ST. ASAPH AND RHYL COUNTY COURT. -All stimmonser. against persons residing out of the district for the next court, to be held at Rhyl on Friday, the 13th day of May, 1904, must be entered not hter than Saturday next, April 23rd, and those against persons residing in the district not later than Tuesday next, April 26th. Offices- Paradise Street, Rhyl. Hours—10 till 4, Saturdays 10 till 1. J BEQUEST TO THE ROYAL ALEXANDRA HOSPITAL.—By the will of Mrll E. J. Hickman, Leahurst, Handsworth, Birmingham, the testator made the following bequests: — £ 2,000 to the Bir- mingham Children's Hospital, £1,700 to the General Hospital, 1700 to the Royal Alexandra Children's Hospital at Rhyl, and £ 500 e!ich to the Middlemore EmiirrHtiori Honipt3 and the Birmingham Y.M.C A. RHYL CYCLE CLUB.—The members of the. Rhyl Cycling Club held their first run of the season last Saturday when notwithstanding the fact that the weather was somewhat unpro- gitious a fair number of wheelmen turned up, and under the captaincy of Ir. T. Pierce Lewis had a very enjoyable run to Pont-yr-allt-goch. A social was heid in the exening at the Gros- venor Hotel and the refreshments supplied were characteristic of the excellency which marks all the preparations of Mr. and Mrs. James. Mr. C. D. Copley presided at the outset, and as he was obliged to leave before the conclusion of the proceedings his place was taken by Mr. J. J'verce Lewis. Some appreciative remarks were made concerning Mr. Thomas Jones, Cambrian House, one of the oldest members of the cl ub. who is shortly leaving Rhyl, to start business in Cheshire. The conviviality of the evening was contributed to by Mr. A. W. James, Miss Louie Williams, Messrs. J. F. Foulkes,F. Sarson and Thomas Jones. Mr. L. J. Foster officiated as accompanist. PONY AND GALLOWAY RACKS.—A general as accompanist. PONY AND GALLOWAY RACKS.—A general meeting in connection with these races was held on Tuesday at the Dudley Hotel. Mr. J. H. Smith presided over a good attendance. The Secretary (Mr. Anthony Williams) produced the balance sheet of last year's races which were a flnancial success. Mr. Lewis Morgan, Pentre- celyn Hall, Ruthin,was re-elected President, with the following vice-presidents Messrs. W. O. Gordon, Rhyl J. B. Linnell, Prestatyn; M. E. Rayner, St. Asaph. Mr. T. C. Howatson, St. Asaph, was unanimously elected chairman, and several other influential gentlemen were a( added to the Committee. Mr. J. H. Smith on retiring from the chair was thanked for his past services. The races will be held on Tuesday Aueust 2nd. RIlYL MAY-DAY DEMONSTRATION—Mr. ). A. W. James presided over a meeting of the May-Day Committee on Monday evening. A communication was received lroin the London and North-Western Railway Company stating that the posters announcing the demonstration had been displayed at the various stations, and cheap railway facilities were being granted from different towns as in previous years. It was resolved that instead of the usual crown of flowers that the May Queen should be crowned with a gilt metal crown containing about 100 paste diamonds. As the present Chairman of the Council had previously performed the cere- mony of crowning the May Queen, it was re- solved to ask Captain Gribbin to perform the ceremony this year. The offer of Mr. P. J. Ashfield to present the May Queen with a bouquet was accepted with thanks. SUCCESSFUL PROPERTY SALE.—On Tuesday afternoon Mr. F. Geary offered for sale at the Alexandra Hotel the freehold residential property known as Melrose, The Grove, Rhyl. Among those present were Messrs. J. Frimston, D. Griffiths, Pryce Davies, J. H. Davies, D. Trehearn, Gordon, Chadwick, Hy. Jones, Griff. Lewis, R. Small, E. Smalley, W. Elwy Will- iams, T. Campling, W. Silvester, Dd. Davies, J. Foulkes, Richard Jones, 8:c. The Auction- eer suitably described the property, the accom- modation of which consists of Entrance Hall, with vestibule, two entertaining rooms, kitchen, back kitchen, larder, &c., on the ground floor; three bedrooms, dressing room, bath room, lava- torv, and W.C. on first floor; with lawn and flower garden in front, and lawn and flower garden in the rear. Bidding started at £ 400, and was briskiv carried to E700, and then by bids of £ 5 to L780, when Mr. J. Frimston be- came the purchaser. TMMANUEL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. —A social evening was held on Thursday even. ing, given by the ladies of the churcfi. The company was larger than usual, as the occasion was the concluding, one of the winter season. A most enjoyable evening was spent, real sociability being a marked feature of these gatherings. A pleasing and encouraging ad- dress was given by the Chairman by way of introduction to the programme, which consisted of selections on the Gramophone (kindly lent by Mr. H. W. Roberts); song, A Life's Les- son,' Miss Lillie Evans; violin solo, 'Canta- bile et Bolero,' Miss Bibby song, Miss Louie Williams; recitation, 'Caudle's T,ecture (bv special request) whistling solo, Alice, where art thou,' Master John Hughes (the boy siffleur). The hat-trimming and other competitions affor- ded great merriment, and were won by Mr. A. Lawrence and Mrs. Vincent. The collection was on behalf of the Church funds, and real. ised L9 Os. 6d. FUTURE OF THE RHYL LIBERAL CLUB. -On Thursday evening a meeting was held at the Liberal Club Rooins, High Street, for the purpose of considering the future of th Club in view of the fact that the tenancy of the pre- sent rooms expired on the first of May, and the premises taken by the Conservative party. I r. S. Perks presided over a good attendance. The Chairman announced that in response to the circulars which had been issued several gentle- men had promised to become annual subscrib- ers. Mr. R. Llewelyn Jones reported upon an offer which he had received from r- Hughes Watkin of the rooms over 56, High Street. Mr. Watkin offered to adapt the rooms to meet the requirements of the Club, and to pu in an installation of elcetric light. After consider- able discussion, it was resolved to appoint a committee to appeal for further financial sup^ port, and in the event of such promises being forthcoming as would justify the continuing or the Club the committee were authorised to negotiate for the taking of the premises offered by Mr. Watkin.

North Wales Telephone Area.s Tbe organisation of public opinioniin reference to the claim of the users of the telephone in North Wales to rearrangment of the areas is steadily pro_ ceedin< It has been suggested by the committee appointed at the Chestej Conference that North Wales should be divided into two areas, the sub- scribers in each of which should be free to commun- icate with each other and with subscribers in the Chester area. This proposal was submitted to the North Wales county councils and also to all the town councils and urban district councils. all of which au- thorities have, with very few exceptions, passed resolutions strongly in favour of the Committee's proposition. A meeting was held last week at the Queen Hotel, Chester, at which Mr. Saxon Gregson Ellis, of Ruthin, presided, and at which the hon. secretary, Mr. W. R. Evans, Clerk of the Peace for Denbigh- shire, reported as to the support whichjthe movement has received from the county and local authorities within the district concerned. It was decided to ask Mr Herbert Lewis, M. p., who took the chair at the first meeting, and all the Welsh and other members of Parliament whose sonstituents are affected to urge the Postmaster General to receive a deputat- ion. In the event of tbe Postmaster General ass- enting the councils supporting the memorial will be requested to send representatives to constitute the deputation, which other prominent men in North Wales will be asked to join. The Hon. George Kenyon has already promised to give what assistance he can, and the representatives from Northwich present at the meeting stated that Sir Johd Brunner would do all he could to lurtber the object of the memorialists, and that one of the directois of Messrs. Brunner Mond, and Co. would join the de- putation.

-job Rhuddlan Cricket Club. The annual general meeting of this Club was held last week, and the election of officers for the coming season was made. The honorary treasurer, Mr. J. O. Hughes, presented the bal- ance sheet, and the report showed the Club to be in a satisfactory position. This is most encouraging, since but for the continuance of the Rhuddlan Club cricket would be a dead let. ter around Rhyl and district. Mrs. Rowley Conwy has again consented to become patroness of the Club, whilst Mr. Conwy Bell remains president. Messrs. Bevington and North are respectively captain and vice-captain as they were last year. Mr. Hughes was unanimouslv re-elected treasurer. The post of honorary secretary is always rather a difficult one to fill, as most members seem to think that the secre- tary is likely to get more kicks than thanks for his trouble. However, Mr. Bevington has con. sented to act for the coming year, and he will be glad to receive the names of any gentlemen who wish to join the Club. A full list of fix- tures has been arranged, the first match being on April 30th, and so on everv Saturday until September 10th. Practice will begin on Mon- day, the 18th, and exery evening the nets will be up for the convenience of members. LIST OF FIXTURES. April 30th, Mold Awav. May 7th, Colwyn Bay Home. 14th, Bangor Home. 21st, Fli n t Home. 28th, Ruthin Grammar School. Awav. June 4th, Llanychain & District. Home. 11th, Colwyn Bay Awav. 18th, Bangor Awav. 25th, Mostvn Park Home. July 2nd, Llandudno Away. 9th, Shotton Home. 16th, Ruthin Grammar School.. Home. 23rd, Llandudno Home. 30th, Llanychain & District Away. August 13th, Mold Home. 20th, Flint Away. 27th, Mostyn Park Away. September 3rd, Conway Home. 10th, Conway Away. M — A carter named Wells, of Attleborough, near Nuneaton, while leading a horse fell, and a cart of bricks passed over him, killing him instantly. George William Hughes, a carman, was sentenced to five years' penal servitude at the Middlesex Sessions for shopbreaking at Acton-lane, Willesden. A young man named Hall, living at Lingfield- street, Islington, on Saturday night threw himself from the top floor window, a distance of 50ft. or 60ft. Death was instantaneous.

-)0(- Prestatyn. SURPRISE PRACTICE.—A surprise practice of the Fire Brigade was held en Saturday evening. The members assembled in re- sponse to the ringing of the alarm bell, and within seven minutes the steamer was got ready and the horses attached, and the brigade was on its way to Llys. It was not until their arrival at the supposed scene of conflagration that the members of the biigade were informed that the alarm was a false one. SCHOOL BO\RD.—At a special meeting of the Prestatyn School Board the Clerk sub- imitted an estimate of the amount required to carry on the work of the Board until :September ist, and it was decided to issue a precept on or before July I St. It was resolved that a gardening class be formed lor the elder scholars, and an instructor be engaged and the necessary tools provided. -ofo--

)o( Correspondence. RECTIFICATION OF DEATH CERTIFICATE To the Editor of the RECORD AND ADVERTISER. Sir,—In order to clear her reputation, my client, Mrs. Emily Ellen Riches, the lawful wife of Mr. Arthur William Riches, of Grange Road, Rhyl, instructs me to ask you to insert this letter in your next issue, so that publicity may be given to the fact that the Register of Deaths Entry No. 301 has been rectified in the following par- ticulars In col. 2 for name and surname Sarah Eliza- beth Riches' read Sarah Elizabeth Wright, otherwise Riches.' In col. 5 for 'Wife of Ar- thur William Riches, a Photographer plaster) read 'Daughter of Richard Wright, a Farm Bailiff,' and in col. 7 omit Widower of deceased.' Upon the attention of the Registrar-General being called to the improper registration, he took steps whereby Mr. Riches had to remove the stigma on my client by filing a Statutory Declaration by himself and another detailing the true facts, and the entry has since been rectified as above. I am further instructed to contradict the rumour falsely circulated that divorce proceed- ings have ever been taken against my client.— Your obedient servant, J. ROBERTS TONES. Rhyl, 20th April, 1904.

Pr: s >atyn Urban District Council. ANNUAL MEETING. The annual meeting of the Prestatyn Urban District Council was held on Monday evening, when there were present Messrs. W. H. Coward, J.P., John Pritchard, Peter Ellis, Thomas Jones, John Cunnah, Thomas Hughes, T. B. Griffith, T. Parry Williams, and the Clerk (Mr. John Hughes), and the Surveyor (Mr. W. Thomas). A telegram, was received from ir. J. B. Lin- nell, the retiring Chairman, stating that he had missed his train at Clanconway, and regretted not being able to attend the meeting. ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN. The first business was the election of Chair- man for the ensuing year. Mr. T. Parry Williams proposed that Mr. Thomas Jones be elected to the chair. Mr. Jones was well-known to the members of the Council and to the town, so it was not necess- ary for him to enlarge on his qualifications for the chairmanship. He was a man of consider- able experience, and a large employer of labour in the town. Mi. Peter Ellis, in seconding, remarked that lr. Jones took a great deal of interest in the affairs of the town, and devoted much time to the work of the Council. Mr. lonn Pritchard moved an amendment. He said that he proposed a gentleman who had had a great deal of experience in those things they required in Prestatyn as a rising watering- place, and if elected would give the benefit ad" that experience to the Council as its Chairman. He was a gentleman who had made his mark as a business man in large English towns, and it was that class of men they wanted at the head of affairs in Prestatyn. He begged to propose that Ir. John Cunnah be the Chairman for the coming year. Mlr. W. H. Coward said that he had been taken by surprise. He had thought of propos- ing Mr. John Pritchard as Chairman. That gentleman was quite entitled to the chairman ship. He was one of the oldest members of the Council. He was also constant in his attendance at the monthly meetings and com- mittees. But seeing that Ir. Pritchard had proposed another gentleman he had been put out of court, and in those circumstances he had great pleasure in seconding the nomination of Mr. John Cunnah. A division was taken, when two voted for Mr Cunnah and five for Mr. Thomas Jones. Mr Jones was, therefore, declared elected. In. taking the chai, Mr. Thomas Jones said that if Mr. Coward had been surprised that-even, ing he had been doubly surprised. In taking the office he thanked them most heartily for placing him in that position. He would en- deavour to do his duty in the fulfilment of the chairmanship. He also hoped to receive th co-operation of the Council in the best of spirits and good fellowship in carrying out the work to be done for the town, and that, they would work as harmoniously as they had done during the term of office of the late Chairman. He did not think he could point to a defective part in Mr. Linnell's ruling, and it was a pleasure to sit under his guidance. Before sitting down he would move a hearty vote of thanks to jI. Linnell for his excellent services during his chairmanship. He regretted that Mr. Linnell was not present, and no doubt nobody was more sorry than Mr. Linnell himself. Mr. W. II. Coward seconded, and referred to Mr. Linnell's urbanity of manner and unchang- ing courtesy. He was most regular in his attendance, and he (Mr. Coward) had great pleasure in seconding the vote of thanks to the late Chairman. Mr. John Pritchard, in supporting, said that during the two years Mr. Linnell had been in the chair the work had gone on most harmon- iously, and the late Chairman did his work very well. The meeting was proceeding to the annoint- ment of committees, when Mr. Peter Ellis moved that all the members of the Council be members of all the commit- tees. Ir. T. Parry Williams seconded, and this was carried. THE QUESTION OF VICE-CHAIRMAN. Mr. John Pritchard raised the question of appointing a Vice-Chairman. Every other Council in this part of the country had a Vice- Chairman, but for the last four years they had been without one in Prestatyn. He thought the work would be better done if they had a Yice- Chairman. The Chairman said that there was a minute on the books that no Vice-Chairman be appoin- ted, and before that was rescinded they could not make any appointment. THE CAB STAND RENTS. At a meeting of the General Purposes Com- mittee a letter was read from Mr. Entwistle stating that a charge of £1 Is. per cab would be made on the Station cab stand. The Clerk was instructed to write asking that the charge be reduced to 10s. 6d., and a reply was read stating that for the present at any rate tne charge would be so reduced. PLANS OF NEW BUILDINGS. Plans of two new houses on Meliden Road for Ir. Ellis Roberts were approved of subject to the palisade wall being put. back to a line with Mr. Burrows' building line. DEFECTIVE MANHOLE COVERS. The Road and Improvement Committee re- ported that the manhole covers placed in Meli- den Road and High Street by Messrs. Hughes and W illiams were not satisfactory, and that the contractors had been written to to replace them. It was also recommended that the claim from Mr. William* Dowell should be sent to the contractors. Mr. Peter Ellis asked if any reply had been received from the contractors. The Clerk said the Surveyor would explain. Mr. Coward said this was a very serious question. He had been spoken to about it by several people, and everybody were complain- ing. Unless things were very soon put right they would be landed in an action for com- pensation. Had there been a reply from the contractors ? There must be no delay in the matter. The Surveyor said that the manager from the foundry had been inspecting the manhole cov- ers, and the defective ones would be replaced. The Contractors would undertake the claim of jr Th Dowell. Th Chairman said the Council were not res. ponslble, as they had not yet taken the worn, over troin. +},_ „J J Ai r Ine contractors. ponsibl'e°to&the"public the^6depressio^ r/€W€' the, Surve-yor said, would be levelled upl manholes THE FINANCES. ^ie rmr*6 e following collections water rat ^"eral district rate, £ 116 ^S' rJ 9C ah f' ^16 8s. 2d. other sour- ces, £ 4 -• > n//f/ini^rr'ed on l°an account, wl68; a total of £ 404 12s 5d. Total receipts for the year, £2,698 19s. 5d. Replying to a question the Clerk said there were about £100 outstanding on the wate rate. The Chairman remarked that the Waterworks were a benefit to the town, and the ratepayers would be grateful to the Council for taking over the undertaking.

Abergele Urban District Council ANNUAL MEETING. The annual meeting of the Abergele and Pen- sarn Urban District Council .as held at the Council Offices, Abergele, on Monday evening. There were present Messrs. J. Pierce, J.P. (Chairman), Pearce Davies (Vice-Chairmani, G. Perkins, Isaac Morris, Ed. Williams, J. C. Knight, Isaac Roberts, Thomas Evans, J. Edu wards, and Dr. Wolsten'holme, with the Clerk (Mr. E. A. Crabbe): the Surveyor (Mr. M. R. Jones), and the Medical Officer of Health (Dr. Lloyd Roberts). ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN AND YICE- CHAIRMAN. Mr. J. Pierce was unanimously re-elected Chairman, and Mr. Pearce Davies Vice-Chair- man for the ensuing year. SEQUEL TO AN ELECTION INCIDENT. During the election of members to serve on the sub-committees, Mr. Ed. Williams declin d to act, giving as a reason for his refusal that the Chairman had stated with respect to a recent visit of inspection by the committee to Mrs. Newton's premises that he had neglected his duty by not going there for the sake of getting a vote at the election. He had been on the Council for six years, and he claimed that dur- ing that time he had always done his duty, and would be the last man to i-ieglect it for the sake of obtaining a vote. He was sorry that the Chairman should have thought fit to say such a thing. The Chairman said it would have been better if Mr. Williams had made his complaint before he was re-elected Chairman. Mr. Williams You have done your duty as Chairman right enough. The Chairman said that Mr. Williams referred to the visit which the committee had paid to the premises of Mrs. Newton with respect to a smoke nuisance. The day after the visit that lady's son-in-law called at his shop, and carried en in a most extraordinarv manner. He should not like to repeat all that he said. He (the Chairman) explained that he had only visited; the place to see whether there existed a nuisance or not, and in order that he might do his duty between ratepayer and ratepayer. He there- upon taunted him that Mr. Williams would not come, and all he (the Chairman) said was that r. NA-illia-nis was with them at the bridge, and that he promised to follow them as soon as he could. That was all that took place. He denied most positively that he told him that [r. Williams had neglected his dutv for the sake of a vote. Mr. Kd. Williams He came to me next day and said so. Dr. W olstenhoime It was evidentlv a per- verted story. The Chairman If you heard the language he made use of, you would have said a great many things to him. Dr. Wolstenholme It was one of those rous- ing kick-ups, and he goes and tells a perverted story. The Chairman I might say a good many things, but I don't want to, and will go on with the business. ECONOMISING. The Surveyor said it had been suggested that a plain pattern of iron railing should be fixed from the boundary wall of the bridge to the dwarf wall by the river. He estimated the cost at £ 8. On the proposition of Mr. Isaac Morris, se- conded by Mr. Pearce Davies, it was decided that the work be not proceeded with for the present. A SMOKE NUISANCE. With regard to the smoke nuisance on the premises of Mrs. Newton, that lady had wriHen a letter in which she undertook not to light a coal fire, but to heat the salt shed by means of a coke fire, and that not more than two or three times in the year, and after nine o'clock at night. She felt sur€ that none of the neigh- bours could complain of any inconvenience if this were done. The fire had been lighted oc- casionally for the last thirty-five years, and she had never heard of any complaints until now. Mr. T. Evans proposed that the course sug- gested by Mrs. Newton be tried for one year, and it was agreed to. THE SEWERAGE TANKS. The Sub-Committee recommended that the water that had accumulated on the top of the sewerage tanks should be drained into the tanks. A RIGHT OF WAY BLOCKED. The Surveyor said that the sub-committee had had under consideration a letter from Mr. Parrv Jones complaining that his right of way to his garden through the Gele river had been blocked through the impounding of the water by the weir which the Council had constructed. The com- mittee had asked him to prepare alternative estimates for a roadway 7ft. 6in. wide, and a footpath 4ft. wide to run parallel with the pre- sent wall. The 7ft. 6in. roadway he estimated would cost L24, and the footpath L21 10s. Mr. T. Evans said that before they incurred any expenditure they ought first of all to be satisfied that lr. Parry Jones had a right of way. Mr. H. E. Pritchard proposed, that they en- tertain no expenditure until they got in the estimates for the year. Mr. G. Perkins seconded. He felt sure that Mr. Parry Jones would not press them in this matter when he saw the position they were in. In the meantime they ought to ascertain wheth- er Mr. Parry Jones had a right of way. SUCCESS OF THE SURVEYOR. The Surveyor reported that he had success- fully passed the examination of the Sanitary Institute, and had since been elected an Asso- ciate member of the Institute. He was heartily congratulated by the Chair- man and Mr. Isaac Williams on his success. LICEXSIXG OF HACKXEY CARRIAGES. The Surveyor said that as he had been ap- pointed inspector of hackney carriages he asked the Council to name a day for the granting of licenses. It was important that all the licenses should be granted on the same day, as it would tend to promote a better control, and permit of a more systematic inspection. It was decided to fix Friday next for the granting, of licenses. OVERHANGING SIGNBOARDS. The Surveyor raised the question of projecting signboards which tradesmen were in the habit of affixing to their verandahs advertising sign- boards which overhang the roadway. One had been erected by lr. John Jones, saddler, which projected 3ft. 6in. Mr. Isaac Morris said that it was only a very small matter, and he moved that they proceed to the next business. The Chairman said that if they did not deal with this matter they would be establishing a precedent, and the consequence would be that these projecting signboards would become general. He should certainly place a similar signboard on his verandah if the thing were allowed. Mr. T. Evans proposed that they should leave the matter open until the next meeting, and that meantime a list should be prepared by the Surveyor of all projecting signboards. lr, Pearce Davies seconded. The Surveyor said he believed that Mr. John Jones was quite willing to take down the sign- board if it was the wish of the Council. He brought this matter before the Council because it formed a precedent. Mr. T. Evans said that the Surveyor was quite right in bringing these matters forward. 0 1 After some further discussion, Mr. T. Evans' proposition was carried. AN EXHAUSTIVE COLLECTION. Mr. E. H. Millward, collector of rates, repor. ted having paid to the bank since the last meet- ing j3220 3s. 4d. in respect of rates collected, making a total for the year of £1,474 15s. Id. There were only seven defaulters, and the total rates in arrears did not amount to more than L25. Me was in hopes that every penny of the district rate would be paid (hear, hear). The Clerk said he was sure that the Council would consider this a most satisfactory collec- tion (applause). A DEPUTATION TO LONDON. The Chairman and Vice-Chairman were ap- pointed to represent the Council on the deputa- tion from North Wales that is to wait upon Lord Stanley, the Postmastr-General, with re- ference to the extension of telephone areas in N-orth Wales.

St. AsaiDh Parish Council. The annual meetiasr of the St. Asapb Parish Council was held on Monday evening. There were present Drs. Daries, Easterby and Lloyd, and Messrs. J. C. Jones, J. P. Jones, Robert Jones, J. Lothian, Charles Mansbridge, Walter Williams, and the Clerk (Mr T. F. Roberts). ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN AND VICE. CHAIRMAN. On the motion of Dr. Easterby, seconded by Dr. Davies, Mr Charles Mansbridge was unanimously re-elected chairman for the ensuing year and Mr J. P. Jones was by a similar vote re-elected vice- chairman. on the motion of Mr Walter Williams, seconded by Dr. Easterby. OVERSEERS. The following were appointed overseers for the ensuing year :—Brynpolyn township, Mr Samuel D. Thomas Gwernighyfryd, Mr William Morris Williams; Talar, Mr J. Morris Jones. ATTENDANCES OF COUNCILLORS. The Clerk submitted a list showing the atten- dances of mpmbers during the past year as follows: -Mr Mansbridge, 15 (highest possible); Mr H. A. Cleaver, 12 Mr Robert Jones, 11 Dr. Davies, S Dr. Easterbv, 7 Mr Lothian, 7 Mr Williams, 6 Mr J. P. Jones, 5; Mr J. C. Jones, 5; Dr. Lloyd, 5; Mr Simon, 4. HYDRANTS. A letter was read from the St. Aaaph (Flint) Rural Dirtrict Council stating that they bad bad the question of supplying hydrants for the parish of St. Asaph under consideration, and that. Mr L. G. Hall, the Rhyl water engineer, whom they had oocsulted in the matter, had sent them an estimate, which they thoughc it well the Parish Council should deal with seeing the parish would have to bear the cost of supplying and fixiag the hydrants. Mr Hall's letter stated that the Rhyl water depart- ment already bad hydrants fixed at two cf the places suggested bv the Parish Council and one near an. other suggested spot. In those three cases only new setts and wall plates would be required, and the cost would be 15s. each. For fixing eight new hydrants the cost complete would be j63 los. each. After some discussion it was resolved, on the motion of the Vice-Chairmau, that the correspon- dence be submitted to the Hydrants Committee for further consideration. THE PROPOSED WAR MEMORIAL. Mr Robert Jones said that in the unavoidable absence of Mr H. A. Cleaver, he had been asked to bring forward a motion re the proposed war memor- ial, of which notice had been given by Mr Cleaver: —That it is desirable to perpetuate at St. Asaph the names of those officers and men from within the radius of the postal district of St. Ai!aph who served in the South African war. To do so it is proposed that a monument be erected on the east side of the Common near the bridgb; that such monument shall consist of a mound about 1.5 feet in diameter at the base and tapering to a height of 12 to 14 feet, a dwarf wall about 2 feet high to surround the basa, and on the top of all a nine pounder rified muzzle-loading field gun with trail to be fixed so as to convey a military appearance; resting on the wall to place two or three small slabs of limestone or m-rble, as means will allow, on which shall be inscribed the names of the officers and men and the regiments in which they served; the mound to be studded with blocks of stone and ferns planted in the soil; the whole to be surrounded with iron rail- ings and a path formed leading from the opening on the bridge to the monument. The Government has promised a suitable gun at a cost of JE2 Is. 6d. Subscriptions to be solicited from the public where. with to piy the cost. That the work be not put in hand until a sufficient sum be subscribed or promised to warrant a commencement. Mr Jones stated in conclusion that Mr Cleaver Wt.8 quite willing to undertake the duties of hon. secretary and treasurer, and would like a small committee to work with him. Dr. Davies said he quite approved of the idea of a memorial for the purptse in question, but it was a matter in which they must not commit themselves straight away. They must have a monument that would not be in any way an eyesore, and they must also calculate the cost before they began on it. The design submitted by Mr Cleaver (copied from a monument he had seen at Canterbury) looked very well on paper. Dr. Kasterby: While endorsing Mr Cleaver's motion we might leave it open for us to alter the dimensions according to circumstances. Dr. Davies: And the character. We had better not commit ourselves to details at all at present. Mr Walter Williams took it they were all agreed as to the desirability of raising a memorial, but be did not think Mr Cleaver's object was to get the Council to bind themselves to the dimensions he had given. Eventually the first and list sentence in Mr Cleaver's proposition were adopted, and it was resolved that a committee of the whole Council take the matter in hand, with Mr Cleaver as hon. secretary and treasurer. THE BUDGET. The Clerk, in laying before the Council a state. ment as to their financial requirements, said that the amount paid by the overseers last year on the general account was £ 20, and on the Common ac- count £ 5. The general account was now overdrawn to the extent of £2 15s. 3d., and on the Common account there was a credit balanoe of 15.. 6i. Dr. Easterby Whit about the lighting account ? The Cierk That is already settled. It rests with the Lighting Committee. He estimated that the Council would again require JE25 on the general account and 15 for the Common. It was agreed to issue precepts on the overseers for those amounts. MISCELLANEOUS. Mr Robt. Jones mentioned that Mr Henry Jones, butcher, was willing to rent the grazing of the Common for another year on the same terms as before. S3. It was resolved to invite tenders for the grazing (for sheep only) from May 1st to the end of Novem- ber, the opening of tenders being left to the Com- mon Committee. Dr. Easterby drew attention to the closing of the bridge over the Elwy at Spring Gardens, and thought it desirable that the owner should be ap- proached with a view to getting him to allow it to be used by the public at large. Mr Robert Jones was entrusted with the task of entering into negotiations with Mr Andrews on the subjeot.

St. Asaph County Court. FRIDAY.—Before His Honour Judge Sir Horatio Lloyd and Oliver George (Registrar). MALICIOUS DAMAGE BY SNOWDROP GATHERERS. Anne Roberts, Hannah Roberts, and Anme Lloyd, all of Brickfield-terrace, Rhyl, and Robert Jones, of Victoria-road, Rhyl, were sued by Sir William Grenville Williams, Bart., Pengwern Hall, for malicious damage to his grounds and plants. Mr. F. J. Gamlin, who appeared for the plaintiff, said that Sir William had for years past suffered damage and annoyance from the depredations made by a number of women coming from Rhyl to his plantation and private grounds and stealing snow- drops and other plants, such as primroses, &c. They rooted up the snowdrops and other growing plants, broke down fences, and caused him consider- able damage from year to year, and he was now determined to put a stop to it. On the 15th of Feb- ruary last P.C. Taaffe found the four defendants coming from the direction of Pengwern. They had a quantity of snowdrops in their possession, and they admitted having taken them from Sir William's grounds at Pengwern. He had issued a summons I against them in the magistrates' court, but the justices thought that it did not come within the pro- visions of the Malicious Damage to Property Act, although he saw that at Chester only the other day the magistrates there dealt with similar cases The judge I know that prosecutions before the magistrates continually take place there for similar depredations on the Duke of Westminster's grounds Mr. Gamlin said the magistrates in their discretion had dismissed the case on technical grounds, and he, therefore, had to take another course and bring the women before his honour. One of the women snid they had never gone over the fences, but entered the grounds through the gates. Mr Gamlin said that the woman Ann Robeits had been cautioned several times before and had been let off upon promising not to repeat the offence. Annie Lloyd and Katie Jones had also been each cautioned once. They brought this action as a warning and did not ask for vindictive damages, but at the same time wanted to be indemnified for the injury done them. Sir Wm. Grenville Williams gave evidence to the effect that he had suffered considerable damage in consequence of these snowdrops having been taken away. He considered that if each defendant paid 10s. 6d., it would be a reasonable amount for them to pay for the damage done. They had dragged up the snowdrops by the roots. Mathew Gwilliam. gardener, said he had seen the place where the snowdrops had been taken from, 2nd it would take quite three days to restore the grounds. The fencc-s had been broken down in a great many places, but he could not say that it had been done by the defendants. The Judge said that the defendants admitted that they had done wrong. He was quite content to make the damages nominal, under the circumstances that being the first time for the women to be brought before him. But if they did this again he would not promise to be of the same mind. When a trespass was repeated after warning, he was entitled to give more damages than were really incurred. He would enter judgment for one shilling and costs against each defendant. He took that lenient course because it was the first time that they had been brought there. One of the defendants said they would not catch her there again. The Judge It is very wrong. You have no right to go on other people's grounds without permission. do- THE BROKEN PROMISE OF MARRIAGE. SCATHING REMARKS BY THE JUDGE- Hugh Jones, the younger, of Penymynydd, Tre- meirchion, appeared under a judgment summons with respect to a debt of £ 12 on judgment given against him at the Rhyl Court last February in con- nection with a claim for money advanced to him by Maria Owen, of Bryn Coch Cottages, Flint. Mr. F. J. Gamlin (on behalf of Mr. T. W. Hughes, Flint), said this was a case in which plain- tiff had lent the money to the defendant under promise of marriage. After seducing her defendant broke on the engagement. In entering judgment when the action was heard at Rhyl his honour made some very strong remarks on the case. Defendant was examined as to his means, and said that all he earned was nine shillings a week as a farm labourer, out of which he helped to keep his aged parents, who were in receipt of parish relief. He admitted that he farmed in a small way, and that he had sold a heifer and a calf since the Rhyl court, and with the money so obtained he had paid some debts he owed. The furniture in the house was his parents'. A brother of the plaintiff gave evidence to the effect that the defendant had removed the best furni- ture from the house; he had also removed some cattle and sheep. His step-mother had told witness that morning that he had no debts to pay, but had been selling in order to get out of paying the debt. Mr. A. O. Evans, Denbigh for the defendant, asked that an order be made of 3s. or 4s a month which was all the defendant could pay. The Judge This man is a contemptible scoundrel. He has practically robbed this woman of her money. That was my opinion at the time, and it is my opinion still; and he shall pay this money or I will know the reason why. I am not satisfied that he has had the means since I gave judgment, and I will make an instalment order, and for two reasons (1) because I think it suits his means better, and (2) because I mean to enforce the order periodically. I am not going to let him off paying this debt by going to prison for 21 days. I will send him to prison for every ios. he fails to pay. I now make an order for I £5 in a month and ios. a month afterwards. REPAIRS TO A HEARSE AND THE CONSEQUENCES. Mr H. Perrins, of Allington, Wolverhampton, and proprietor of the Parade Mews, Rhvl, was sued by Mr Moses Wil'iams, coach builder, Rhyl, for the recovery of^3 for work done. Mr F. J. Gamlin was for the plaintiff, and Mr J. B. Marston was for the defendant. Mr Gamlin said that the plaintiff was a coach builder, and he had in his possession a certain hearse which belonged to Messrs David Griffiths & Son, Rhyl, to which he was instructed by Messrs Griffiths tc do certain repairs which he agreed to do for the sum of k 3. Whilst the repairs were in progress the defendant was in negotiation with Messrs Griffiths with the view of purchasing the hearse and ultimately he agreed to buy it. Mr Perrins, accompanied by his manager, a man named Dowell, came to plaintiff's works to see the hearse, and some conversation took place as to further repairs to the hearse beyond those ordered by Messrs Griffiths. Defendant, however, said he would be quite content with the repairs ordered by Messrs Griffiths and that he did not require any extra repairs. Defendant and the manager then went away but subsequently the manager returned and told the plaintiff that fr. Perrins had re-considered the matter and decided that the extra repairs should be done. They were consequently duly executed and the present claim was in respect to this. Plaintiff bore out Mr Gamlin's opening statement. William Dowrll said at the time this transaction took place he was manager of Mr Perrins' Rhyl business, and in his capacity as manager had person- ally given instructions to Mr Moses Williams to carry out certain repairs for Mr Perrins, and these were duly paid for by Mr. Perrins. On a certain day towards the fall of last year he accompanied Mr Perrins to Mr Moses Williams's premises to see this hearse Mr Williams stated he had suggested to Mr Griffiths that the hearse would look very much better if it were touched up a bit, but Mr Pemns at that interview did not give any instructions to execute the repairs. Witness and Mr Perrins went away together and in about an hour's time he (witness) happened to be passing and met Mr Williams and had a talk with him over the hearse. He simply told him that he thought the hearse would look very much better if touched up a little bit different to what it was. He thought in doing so he was study- ing his employer's interests not knowing it would cost so much. He did not tell Mr Williams that he and Mr Perrins had been talking the matter over and re-considered the question. Mr Marston said that their case was they had never bought the hearse and were not going to pay tor something they had not had the benefit of. Dowell had no right to give orders on behalf of Mr Perrins The defendant in his evidence said he had bought a coaching bnsiness in Rhyl for his sons. He took Dowell into his employ and Dowell told him a hearse was to be sold remarkably cheap. He told him that if it was worth the money they would have it. Witness was going to Allbrighton at the time and Dowell was to write him particulars. He did so and led him to understand that the hearse was as good if not better than the one at the Alexandra Hotel, Rhyl. Witness had seen that one but had not seen this one at all. Dowell wrote him strongly and pressed him to wire, as if he did not purchase it in the mormng for ^85 as it was such a good hearse that three or four were after it. Mr Peter Edge, of the Blue Cap Mews was one of them. When he returned to Rhyl he saw Mr Edge before going to see the hearse, and he said he had not offered any price whatever for it. When he went to Mr Williams premises to view the hearse it was being painted. The moment witness saw it he was convinced it was worth nothing like the meney. Mr Williams sug- gested that witness should incur more expenditure on it to titivate it up but he told him you carry out your contract with Mr Griffiths." After telling Dowell he wouid not have the hearse he was surprised to hear that he should afterwards go to Mr Williams and suggested that he wanted it titivating up, why he did it he did not know. Witness had never had the hearse and it had never been on his premises. Cross-examined He did not say in Mr Williams's presence that he refused to have that hearse. The Judge said there was evidence that Dowell had general authority to act for the defendant, but so far as the two principal parties were concerned there was a conversation between them in which the plaintiff suggested to the defendant that certain extra repairs should be done to the hearse, but the defendant said" Y 011 carry out your contract with Mr Griffiths." That was an expressed repudiation by him ot anything beyond what the plaintiff was already instructed to do Dowell had no expressed authority to give shortly afterwards quite a different order. He thought it a pity that Mr Williams did not make inquiries in view of the fact that he should receive a different order from Dowell so shortly after he had received Mr Perrins'. But he could not blame him for that. As there was no expressed authority he should give judgment for the defendant without costs. UNPAID FOR CHRISTMAS PRESENTS. Mr. Thomas Bunn, Wellington Road. was sued by Messrs. Walter Clarke and Son, fruiterers and game dealers, for the recovery of the sum of ^5 s. for goods supplied. Mr F. J. Gamlin, who appeared for the plaintiffs, said the defendant Thomas Bunn assisted his sister Miss Bunn in the business of a mineral water manu- facturer at Rhyl, and who carried on business under the name of F. Bunn and Co. Last Christmas the defendant went to Mr Walter Clarke's shop and ordered from him some geese and pheasants, which he was very kindly going to make a present of to his friends. The geese and pheasants were duly supplied and when in due course Mr Clarke presented his bill for payment, defendant referred him to his sister, and upon applying to the sister she referred them to her solicitor who in turn referred them to some deed of assignment executed in favour of some gentleman in Manchester. That day they applied for judgment against the man to whom they had supplied the goods. Defendant said he had ordered these things for the firm. The Judge: You ordered these things without disclosing any principal. Plaintiff says he did not know anything of your sister when he supplied you. You will have to pay this debt, and settle it with those for whom you are acting. Judgment for plaintiff; payment by instalments of £ 1 a month. NOVEL DEFENCE TO AN ACTION. A CLAIM DEFENDED AS A WARNING TO TRADESMEN. Miss M. Jones, of Plas, Prestatyn, was sued by Messrs Rhydwen Jones and Davies, for the recovery °f £ zl 45. for furniture supplied. Mr A. Rowlands (Mr J. Pierce-Lewis appeared for the plaintiffs, and Mr F. J. Gamlin for the defendant. Mr E Nelson formally proved the debt, and letters were pioduced from the defendant admitting it. Mr F. T. Gamlin said he defended the case because be thought it was necessary that tradesmen should be warned, that it was their own fault if they gave indiscrimate credit in this way. Here was a young woman living in lodgings and with a very small income, allowed to run up the large debt of ^23 4s. for furniture. The Judge It does not lie in your mouth to take up [hat position. Here is a young woman who is apparently perfectly solvent, and asks to be supplied with certain goods. What is the tradesman to do ? Is he to inquire of every person whether he or she is a housekeeper or lodger ? If he does so, he would soon be told by the customer that he would go some- where else. Mr Rowlands said it was generally understood in Rhyl that the defendant was possessed of consider- able means, having, with her sister, been left a con- siderable sum of money by a wealthy relative. Mr F. J. Gamlin said he was prepared to swear that the defendant's income was only £33 per annum. Out of that she had to pay for her apartments, keep herself and clothe herself. Moreover she was in a delicate state of health. His Honour gave judgment for the plaintiff, and also gave judgment against the defendant in an action brought against her by Mr G. E. Gratton, chemist. He said he would decide as to the orders for payment when defendant was examined as to her means under judgment summons. A BICYCLE TRANSACTION. Mr. J. Evans, of the Cross Foxes, Prestatvn, was sued by Miss Elizabeth Williams, cycle factor, Sussex Street, Rhyl, for the recovery of ios. balance due for the hire of a bicycle. Mr F. J. Gamlin was for tbe plaintiff, and Mr Joseph Lloyd for the defendant. Mr. Gamlin said that the plaintiff on the 24th of September had hired a bicycle at 7s. 6d. per week. That bicycle he had sold absolutely without authority. When he (Mr Gamlin) wrote for payment, defendant sent what he perhaps thought was a very clever letter, but which he could only characterise as a most impudent letter. In this letter he said: 11 (1) I never transacted any business with this person or knew she had any. (2) I am willing to return the bicycle to George Williams when he fulfills his arrangements with me. (3) Or I am ready to appear before Judge Lloyd, feeling sure I shall get justice which I have not had from George Williams and his clique." Mr Gamlin explained that Miss Williams carried on business as a cycling agent. Her brother y Geoige Williams carried on the business before her. He got into difficulties and made a deed of assign- ment in favour of Miss Williams, who now carried on the business. Therefore, this bicycle was her pro- perty, and hence the claim against the defendant. Mr Joseph Lloyd, for the defendant, contended that the business of the plaintiff was that of her brother, George Williams, and the fact that she had given credit for the £ 2 los. owing by her brother went to support that contention. But the brother owed more than that by way of commission, &c., and what defendant wanted was a settlement of the whole thing. After hearing evidence on both sides, His Honour reserved judgment.

Mr. Howell Idris on Bad Times in the Mineral Water Trade. The condition of the mineral-water trade, in which a very large amount of capital is embarked, is attracting considerable attention, and the view. of such an authority as Mr. T. H W. Idris are, there- fore exceptionally interesting just now. The trade, he said yesterday, is in an exceedingly bad state, very few of the companies engaged in it having been able to pay all their dividends during the past two or three years. Until 1900 the buisness had been an improving one; the taste for temperance beverages was steadily growing. In 1900 the effects of bad trade, consequent on the war, began to be felt; the price of bottles was in- creased, and more had to be paid for coal. The weather, too, for several summers has been most unfavourable. Then, Mr. Idris said, we had the sugar duty, which cut into our profits to the extent of many thousands of pounds. In my own firm W had a profit-sharing scheme, under which several thou- sands have been distributed among our employees* but since 1900 there has been no surplus to divide) and some classes of our shares have had to go without dividend. Yet we have not been hit so hard as many makers because we do not use sugar to the same extent as some—ginger-beer manufactuers, for in stance proposal to put a tax on mineral waters, Mr. idns expressed the opinon that it was a ridicul- ous one. The industry was very nearly ruined al ready; many firms had given up buisness altogether within the last few years, and to put a tax on would certainly diminish still further the manufacture and consumption of temperance beverages, which in it- self was contrary to public policy. "Besides," continued Mr. Idris, it would be al- most impossible to collect such a tax. How are you going to do it. I have heard it suggested that it should be lid. per dozen by means of an eighth of a penny stamp on every bottle. But the bottles vary, in size from loz to a pint, and the price trom 8d. to2s. 6d. per dozen, and the syphons vary, too; so the i^d. would be three or four times as heavy on the cheaper goods as on the more expensive ones. "The only other proposal I knew of is for a tax: on mineral water vans; but such a tax would be no more reasonable on our vans than on any others. So far from expecting futher taxation, the mineral water trade has been hoping to be relieved of at least half of the sugar duty this year, seeing that it was put on as a war tax. Mr. Idris further pointed out that the trade is suffering not only from the duty but also from the effects of the Sugar Convention. Judged by the price of 88 per cent. crude beet- the standard-Brltlsh manufacturers, Mr. Idris de- clared, are paying £ 2 a ton more for their sugai than they would if it had never been entered into. The results of the Convention had been to increase the price of sugar inJEngland and to lessen it enormously on the Continent—something like 2d. a pound ivt trance and 1 jd in Germany. "No" said Mr. Idris emphatically, the mineral water trade cannot stand any more taxation; and uu- less we soon get cheaper sugar and better weather many more firms will go out of it altoget- her ° Regarding the suggestion that the trade should amalgamate, Mr. Idris was very dubious as to the practicability of such a scheme, since there is such great variety in the classes of customers catered for by the different»inufacturers.

man, the Conservatives are prepared to support he was decidedly inter- esting, and as a curiosity was both divert. ing and entertaining. He was the fenny man in the dull, sombre proceedings, and it is a pHy he did not appear on the scene earlier. Although perhaps he would not .have contributed much more to the political education and information of the audience than did the other speakers, he would certainly have succeeded in amusing them, and possibly induce them to forget that they were at a political meeting and to imagine that they were listening to one of those delightful come turns which are so b much appreciated in the Palace entertain- ments. On one thing Mr Naylor can con gratulate himself upon,he attracted far more attention than did the noble Lord who was supposed to be the star of the evening. We -envy the electors of the CarnarvonBoroughs the enjoyment which they derive from an election wherein a candidate so diverting as Mr. Naylor must prominently figure. The Rhyl Urban District Council held their annual meeting on Monday, and elec- ted Mr. A. L. Clews as their chairman. It is a choice which we are sure the rate- payers generally will heartily endorse. Mr. Clews has filled the chair before, and he did so with an ability and a courtesy under somewhat trying circumstances which gain- ed for him the respect and esteem of all his colleagues, including even those who differ- ed from him the most. That year was a year of unfortunate litigation for the Coun cil, and reference was made by Mr. J. H. Ellis to the one question that caused the most contention—the struggle for freedom of speech on the foreshore. It will be re- membered that the attempt of the majority of the Council to restrict free speech on the sands of Rhyl was successfully resisted in Parliament. The Council were granted certain powers under the Paignton clause, but from that time to this they have left the unfortunate thing alone. To those who persisted in this matter it is an unpleasant memory, and the new Chairman will not be pleased at the suggestion that the ques- tion should be revived by the making of bye-laws which will be of no real and prac- tical value. He would, after his previous experience, prefer a year of office free from such a disturbing influence as the question of free speech. We trust he may have just such an experience as that upon which he so felicitously congratulated his predecessor Mr. Thomas Whitley. Last year progress has been made in the right direction. Until a few years ago progress was measured by the amount of money spent on public im- provements. That was all right up to a point. But there comes a time when pro- gress must be measured by a different standard—the standard of economy. When a man in his desire for extension and pro- gress finds he has incurred obligations which he is unable to meet he places a restraint upon himself and endeavours to ease the financial strain upon him This is what the Rhyl Urban District Council have been doing for the last two years, and with emi- nently satisfactory results. The retiring Chairman was congratulated upon a marked reduction iu the burdensome debt which the Council have allowed to accumulate vear by year largely because they had not the courage to levy a sufficlent rate to meet their liabilites. The financial policy adop- ted during the last two or three years has resulted not merely in arresting the growth of that debt, bat has reduced it to almost one-half, and it is proposed to deal with the other half and to pay it off in a manner which will not entail any addition to the present rates. If the Council will only con- tinue to place the same restraint upon themselves as they have done during the last two years and avoid all expenditure that is not absolutely necessary, there is no reason why there should not be an early and substantial reduction in the rate. We would also desire to congratulate the neigh- bouring local authority of Prestatyn upon their choice of chairman. Mr. Thomas Jones is a young gentleman who has shown his faith in Prestatyn by carrying out there extensive building operations. He has proved a faithful and able member of the Council, and we have no doubt but that he will fill the chair with credit with dignity and efficiency. We trust that under his direction the affairs of the Council will be administered in the same satisfactory manner as they have hitherto been, and that his year of office will witness -a marKed development in the growth and progress of Prestatyn. b