The Chester Courant and Advertiser for North Wales

Hocal Ontrnmtnt ottings [BY MENTOR.] At some district councils the question of t0^ railway fares as between the large 8 and their suburbs is being very pro- ently discussed; and the question arises whether the subject is not ripe for examination In Chester and its neighbourhood. As a rule the local railway companies are liberal in the fatter of season, market and short excursion tickets, but apart from those who avail them- selves of these there is a class of people who would be travellers to a very much larger extent-especially in the summer and autumn -if they were able to do so at a cheaper rate; and, seeing the many miles people are taken for small sums on the continental railways, I do see why something of the kind should not possible here. Under the will of a Holywell tradesman, who died some twenty-five years since, a board school of that town, as well as four other J8 ricts in the neighbourhood, become possessed 01 £ 10 a year in perpetuity. The money, it appears, is to be applied to giving an annual treat to the children attending the elementary chools, and according to a query put to the er the bequest comes within the jurisdiction Of the Charity Commissioners. At the Rhyl Urban Council the clerk reported the receipt of a letter from the Local Govern- ment Board intimating their willingness to 8anction a loan of £1,400 (or more if required) for the construction of a sea wall and promenade nsion to the Foryd, if made according to J*?gestions by the chief engineering inspector r the Local Government Board. A very good Report waB also made as to the receipts at the arine lake, and it was resolved to provide a mortuary for the town. Then, again, at the recent meeting of the Holywell Rural Council, the subject of the efficient drainage of Bagillt Was discussed, and the services of a competent engineer were ordered to be retained to report on the feasibility of a scheme. The question of the erection of a pier on the new promenade at Colwyn is making fair pro- gress, and there is a probability of the same being erected by another season. Also the sub- jects of lighting the promenade and enclosing a Portion of the foreshore in front of the Colwyn Bay Hotel are receiving attention. Then at the 1 _L "Isu meeting of the Urban District Council Mr. T. Parry announced his intention of presenting another drinking fountain to the town, to be placed on the promenade east of the subway. He said he was proud to see so many visitors in Colwyn Bay and Colwyn too. Colwyn Bay was more patronised than ever, and the visitors evidently appreciated the new promenade. To which I should like to add a reminder that money judiciously spent, and in no niggardly spirit, in the district, is sure to bring in a good return in course of time. Scenes' seem to be the order of the day, more or less-and it seems rather more than "less-at the meetings of local governing bodies gently. Thus at the Altrincham Urban ■district Council an acrimonious discussion took place over the site for a drinking fountain in Stamford Park, when one member ^Used another of having spoken of a third as traitor,' which was, as usual, strongly denied, the chairman had to appeal to the Council to conduct their proceedings in a gentlemanly manner. "^&ain, at the Radcliffe District Council, on lCUSsing the minutes of the Finance Com- th as to an item of £9 odd in the name of a .airman, for deputation expenses to London, thegDificant question was put as to whether The deputation travelled first or third class. ^airman, who is also a member of the Whi B°ard of Guardians, at the meetings of clngs ,ody he is a strong advocate for third- conjg^eUing, on the present occasion, in the o' a quiet wrangle, admitted that he travelled first-class, the excuse being that he followed the example of the other members of the deputation. The chairman, who evidently got ruffled, said he was sorry to see the questioning member' come there to make a fool of himself and the Council, because he con- sidered his conduct nothing short of that;' and so on. The incident was certainly instructive as showing how much even the chairman of a finance committee is sometimes inclined to sacrifice to principle. The Hyde Town Council meeting the other day was notable for a good deal of unseemly conduct of several of its members, one of whom accused another of telling a deliberate lie'; and it is an abominable lie!" and matters proceeded so far that it seemed at one time as though they would end up in a fight-and between magistrates too! The Mayor appealed to the excited opponents with what appeared to be something of grim irony 'to behave in a manner worthy of the high position they occupied.' But all to no purpose, for the wrangle went on even after the Council had adjourned for five minutes to allow the excitement to cool down, one member taunting another with constantly jumping up and down and chirping like a canary'! t, Some time ago a report of a meeting of the Holywell Parish Council appeared in a Liver- pool contemporary respecting the indulgence of some of its members in smoking, and the sub- ject was also commented on jocularly in a leading article in the same paper. I refrained from any eomment myself at the time, because the report seemed to be exaggerated. At their recent meeting both the report and the article were adverted to in anything but complimentary terms by some members, and denounced as exaggerations, the Chairman adding that the greater portion were untruths. But now comes the funniest part of the story. The Chairman complained that he was made to say what he never uttered, and challenged the whole Council to con- firm or deny that he called the Rural Council 'cut-throats!' But he was promptly checked by two members, one of whom said if the chair- man didn't use those words, he was misled entirely; while the other characterised the report as a fair one,' and the leading article as very right and proper.' Now, of course, it is not my province to defend either one or the other, but I know from long experience that members of public bodies, in the heat of dis- cussion, sometimes use terms they never intended, and which in their cooler moments they utterly repudiate. It might have been so here. Technical education seems to be proving itself rather costly in Sussex. At a meeting of the Ore Parish Council, Lieutenant-Colonel Dennett, who presided, observed that last quarter the County Council spent 91,800 on technical education, and he thought that was quite enough. At a meeting of the Finance Committee he asked the number of pupils instructed for this sum, and ascertained that there were seven! These pupils were being instructed in agriculture, but he thought if they gave a good practical farmer C50, he would be pleased to educate one of these young gentlemen, and give him some work to do. It is to be hoped that much so-called technical education is not being carried on at this rate but it would no doubt be instructive to the rate- payers if more detailed accounts were published in other counties.

DISTRICT AND PARISH COUNCILS. MALPAS PARISH. The ordinary monthly meeting was held on Tuesday. Present-Mr. G. S. Morgan (chair- man), Messrs. Ankers, Callcott, Battarbee, and the clerk.—Mr. Callcott stated as one of the members who waited upon the rector with reference to the proposed opening up of the Arbour field for a promenade, the difficulties which would be encountered were so great that the scheme had been abandoned.—Mr. Ankers asked who the deputation were who waited upon the rector. He certainly under- stood that all the members of the Council were to attend on a certain day at a certain time. He, at some inconvenience to himself, attended on the day named, and waited about for a considerable time, and sub- sequently he found that a different day had been privately arranged for by some members of the Council of which the rest were ignorant. He characterised the proceed- ing as highly unbusinesslike, and one which if repeated would tend to bring the Council into disrepute.—The Chairman: Do you wish to have a proper meeting of the Council to meet the rector ?—Mr. Ankers: No, I do not want to open up the question again, but I do think that the Council should be treated with respect, and the business conducted in a proper manner.— The Chairman concurred in this view. He him- self had heard nothing of the meeting until just at the moment it was being held, when he could not attend. He also referred to the loose way in which the reports were presented, and suggested that they be in writing. The Clerk reported that the Fire Brigade had inspected the helmets, and considered that the sample of French extraction would do very well if the distinctive marks were removed and replaced with cross axes. It was resolved that the question of helmets be deferred until the Fire Engine Committee could see their way to the purchase of more modern helmets.—Mr. John Fleet applied for a new gate to the Moss Land, and it was resolved to call the committee's attention to the matter. It was also resolved that tenants of the Council's houses must either fully occupy them or vacate. A further bill of £ 2 2s. was presented for services at Barton fire. The Clerk said they had spent all the fire brigade money in paying their responsi- bilities in respect of this fire. It was ordered that the bill be paid. LITTLE SUTTON PARISH. The ordinary monthly meeting of this Council was held in the National Schools on Tuesday evening.-A letter was read from the Wirral Waterworks, regretting their inability to supply the village with an ample supply of water, owing to a breakdown in their machinery, but at the same time assuring the Council that they would endeavour to give a better supply in the future.—Mr. Cross proposed that the clerk address a letter to the Local Government Board, drawing their attention to the fact that the supply of water in the village was totally inadequate for the requirements of the inhabi- tants, and also stating that they had written to the Waterworks, but still the supply was no better. He was of the opinion that if the company guaranteed a supply of water they should carry out their contract.— Mr. R. Jones seconded, and the resolution was carried.—Mr. Cross proposed that two valuers be appointed to estimate the damage done by straying cattle on other people's land, and he proposed the names of Mr. Kendal and Mr. Spruce, as he was of the opinion that both gentlemen were fully qualified and experienced in the work.—Mr. Bethel was of the opinion that the decision of the Council was not binding, as it was out of their jurisdiction altogether. The motion was withdrawn.- A communication was read from Mr. J. Lane, chairman of the Council, resigning his position as chairman and member of the Council, and thanking them for their kind consideration shewn towards him during the period he had held the office-Mr. Wright was of the opinion that the Council should send a 'letter to him asking him to reconsider his decision.—Mr. Jones proposed that they accept the resignation. Ultimately it was resolved that a letter be written. HOPE PARISH. THE CHARITIES. A meeting of this Council was held at Abermorddu Board School on Tuesday, Mr. E. C. Probert presiding. A letter was read from the London and North-Western Railway referring to a request by the Parish Council to put stiles upon an alleged footpath near Hope Station. The company said that they had already informed the Flintshire County Council that they did not admit any puplic right of user at that point, and therefore declined to erect stiles to facilitate trespass. It was agreed that the Footpath Committee should thoroughly investigate the matter and prove the right, and afterwards write strongly to the railway company on the subject. Footpaths at Uchymynydd Ucha were referred to by Messrs. John and Isaac Williams, and it was agreed the District Council should be asked to take them over. The clerk (Mr. Fred Jones) as assistant over- seer gave a report ef the work of the overseers and the accounts for the year ending March 25th.-Mr. John Williams pointed out that personal feeling should not be imported into business matters.—The footbridge at Cefny- bedd, over the railway line from Llay Hall Colliery, was referred to as being in a dangerous condition, and on the proposition of Mr. John Williams, seconded by Mr. J. Bellis, the clerk was requested to write to Mr. Clark, the owner, to put it in repair.—Mr. Bellis again drew attention to the distribution of white bread at Hope Church, and the Chairman pointed out that it was a matter for the charity trustees, and had nothing to do with the Parish Council, and no resolution could be passed on the subject.-Mr. Wm. Lewis referred to two deserving cases at Llanfynydd, and did not think this charity should be regarded as a pension.—Mr. Bellis said he wanted it distributed fairly and justly. —The Chairman As one of the trustees, that is your work, sir. (Laughter.) Mr. Bellis (continuing) I don't see why poor people should have to come to church for it, or why the same people should have it continually.— The Chairman: You have equal power with the other two trustees, and therefore it is your duty to see to any incongruities. You now have the rope loose to do as you like. (Laughter.)—Mr. Bellis, as a trustee, was asked to give some information as to the newly-found charity, but declared his inability. He was willing, however, to call a meeting of the trustees.—The Chairman volunteered the information that the money had been received, and he had seen an extract of the will. The rector had been informed that the interest on the money would shortly be paid over to the churchwardens. The sum of C200 had been left to be invested by the donor's executors for repairs to deceased's vault, the residue to be distributed among the poor of Hope. This had been done, the executors having invested the money in stocks in good Government security. —Mr. Bellis: Is it parochial or ecclesiastical ?- The Chairman: As a trustee, sir, you can inquire for yourself. (Laughter.)—Mr. Alf. Williams referred to a disused well at the Cym- mau, on property belonging to Mr. H. H. Hughes. It was decided to ask Mr. Hughes to re-open it. The Burial Board were authorised to go into the question of repairs to the parish hearse and harness, which were in a dreadful condition. A letter was read from the Tryddyn Parish Council with reference to a bridge crossing a brook which divides the two parishes. Messrs. John and Edward Williams were appointed a deputation to meet the Tryddyn committee. WREXHAM RURAL. SHOULD CYCLES BE TAXED? On Thursday at the monthly meeting of the Wrexham Rural District Council (Captain Griffith-Boscawen presiding) a resolution was received from the Ashbourne District Council suggesting that as highways, the maintenance of which was now cast upon district councils, were used to a considerable extent by cyclists, it was but equitable that they should help to bear the expense of the repair of rural high- ways, and that the Local Government Board be requested to promote legislation with a view to a tax being imposed on all cycles.—Mr. T. Allen moved, and Mr. C. W. Parsonage seconded, that the Council adopt the Ashbourne resolution, Mr. Parsonage remarking that it was not the abuse but the use of the road they had to consider.—Mr. B. Davies (Rhos) moved as an amendment that the Council take no action in the matter. (Hear, hear.) Cycling afforded a vast amount of pleasure to an enormous number of people, and he thought they ought not to put anything in the way of their enjoy- ment of the exercise if they liked it. He was convinced that all the cyclists that passed through the country did not injure the roads in the slightest degree, and it would be great cruelty to assist in taxing them.—Mr. G. Heyward (Rhosddu) seconded the amendment, Mr. J. Edwards remarking that he thought all cycles should be numbered, if not taxed.—Mr. E. Stanley Clark (Llay Hall) said the mover of the amendment had lost sight of the principle of taxation altogether, and seemed to think it was a pleasure to be taxed for other people's pleasure. It was true the bicycle did not damage the road, but those who used the roads should pay for them, and those who used the roads for the purposes of pleasure should, in common fairness, contribute some- thing towards their maintenance. (Hear, hear.)—Mr. Thomas Davies (Rhostyllen) con- sidered that the use of the cycle was a great advantage to the community at large. If we had enjoyed great prosperity during the last sixty years, it was entirely due to the inven- tion of easy methods of locomotion, and he therefore thought they should support the bicycle-the greatest invention of all in this connection. (Applause.) The Rev. P. W. Sparling (Erbistoyr) supported the resolution. Those who generally rode bicycles formed a portion of the community who could well afford to pay a small tax upon them, and moreover, cyclists appeared to be under the impression that the whole road belonged to them, and whenever they got the change they also used the footpaths to a very great extent. They could well afford a tax of 2s. 6d., or even 5s.— Mr. G. Findlay (Plas Power) pointed out that a large number of the work people used the bicycle to go to and from their employment.—The Chairman said it was an important question, and no doubt there was a good deal to be said on both sides. If bicycles were almost entirely used by people going to their work, he should not be at all in favour of taxing them, but during the last few years, people who were un- doubtedly very wealthy and had carriages and horses of their own, had taken to the bicycle instead-it was, in fact, a sort of craze, and as to the 'rules of the road,' his experience was that, for the most part, they were entirely disregarded by cyclists. He did not think a small tax would be any hardship. On a division the resolution in favour of taxing cycles was lost by 14 votes toll. TARVIN DISTRICT. A meeting was held on Saturday at the Crypt Chambers, Chester, Mr. R. Salmon presiding in the absence of the regular chairman.—The Surveyor (Mr. Piggott) said he had authorised two pumps to be placed at Kelsall.—The Clerk intimated the receipt of two tenders for the supply of a pump at Farndon. One was from Mr. Ellis Hughes, of Farndon, and the other from Mr. Thomas Vicars. The sum quoted by both was X9. Mr. Hughes's tender was accepted.—From the minutes of the Tiverton Water Committee it appeared that it is pro- posed to supply Tiverton and Tilston with water from the main at Beeston.—In confirming the minutes of the Tattenhall Sewerage Committee the Council passed a vote of thanks to Mr. Barbour for his offer of land practically for nothing.—A resolution was passed to apply to the Local Government Board for sanction to make a special charge on the Tattenhall district of JE15, as payment to the inspector (Mr. Hughes).-The Broxton Parish Council sent a request for the repair of Broomhill Bank road. Mr. Siddorn explained that this road did not need great repair, but only required two drains laying on each side and rounding. It was a public road, and was much used. The Council decided to have these repairs carried out, and the whole work will be done at a comparatively small sum.

The Public should be on their guard against doctored' cocoas, of which there are many in the market. CADBURY'S Cocoa, being absolutely pure, stands all tests, the Medical profession and Press proclaiming its superiority as a delicious beverage and nutritious food. It should always be borne in mind that Cocoa must be pure and unadulterated-I like CADBURY'S—to impart the utmost benefit. The Medical Annual says: A perfectly pure Cocoa, of the highest quality. The name CADBURY on any packet is a guarantee of purity.' 4 IMPORTANT ASSESSMENT CASE.—Mr. Justice Lawrance and Mr. Justice Ridley, sitting as a Divisional Court, gave judgment on Wednesday in a test ease between the Assessment Com- mittee of the Stockport Union and the London and North-Western Railway Company. The company's station at Stockport has recently been enlarged, and a question thereupon arose as to whether certain lines should be rated on one scale as running lines or on another as station lines. The committee's assessment was appealed against at Quarter Sessions, and the court ordered that it should be reduced by X900. The decision of the justices was now appealed against, but was confirmed by the Divisional Court. CLARKE'S B 41 PILLS are warranted to cure, in either sex, all acquired or constitutional Dis- charges from the Urinary Organs, Gravel and Pains in the back. Free from Mercury. Estab- lished upwards of 30 years; In boxes 4s. 6d. each, of all Chemists and Patent Medicine Vendors throughout the World, or sent for sixty stamps by the makers. The Lincoln and: Midland Counties Drug Company, Lincoln.

MARRIAGE OF MR. W. G. SCHRODER AND MISS ROBERTS. 4 At St. Mary's, Broughton, on Thursday, the marriage was solemnised of Mr. Walter G. Schroder, headmaster of the Chester Art School, son of the late Mr. Frederick Hills Schroder, of Brighton, and Miss Cissie Roberts, daughter of Mr. John Roberts, J.F., of VVHII dou.-se, Chester. The Rev. Stephen Gladstone, rector of Hawarden, and the Rev. G. F. Hodges officiated. The ceremony took place at 2.30 p.m., and the church was packed long before then, on account of the popularity of the bride throughout the district, Miss Roberts having- figured prominently as a Church worker and district visitor for some years. The bride, who was given away by her father, was attired in a costume of dove-grey cloth, trimmed with white moire, lace, pearl, and sequin passementerie. She also wore a large white moire hat, trimmed with white tips, chiffon, and flowers, and carried a lovely shower bouquet, the gift of the bridegroom. The bridesmaids, Miss Emily F. Roberts (sister of the bride) and Miss Lottie Schroder (sister of the bridegroom) wore costumes of cornflower blue cloth, trimmed with white accordion pleated chiffon and passementerie. They also carried shower bouquets, and wore gold brooches set with pearls and diamonds, the gifts of the bridegroom. Mr. Augustus Spencer, of the Art School, Leicester, acted as best man. Miss Youd, of Saltney, presided at the harmonium. Above the gate leading from the highway to the home of the bride, a triumphal arch had been erected by the employes on the farm, bearing the words Long life and happiness,' prettily decorated with evergreens and flags. In the afternoon a reception was held at Well House by Mr. and Mrs. Roberts, and later in the afternoon Mr. and Mrs. Schroder left for London en route for the South Coast where the honeymoon will be spent. The brides travelling dress consisted of a green cloth coat and skirt with white vest, and white hat trimmed with scarlet geraniums and chiffon. The presents included:—Bridegroom to bride, gold watch and chain; bride to bridegroom, dressing case; Mr. Roberts (father of the bride), cheque; Mrs Roberts (mother of the bride), household linen, drawing room chair, chest of drawers, and china tea service; Mr. and Mrs. Chambers, silver fish carvers; Mr. and Mrs. George J. Roberts, fish knives and forks; Mr. R. G. Roberts, travelling trunk; Mrs. Schroder, oak cabinet; Miss Schrdder, case of plate and cutlery Miss Lotta Schroder, silver mounted cut glass biscuit barrel; Mr. W. F. Roberts, set of dish covers; Miss E. F. Roberts, silver cake basket and satin cushion; Mr. E. A. Roberts, canary with cage Mr. T. C. Roberts, silver sugar sifter; Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Roberts, set of brass tray Gorstella children, afternoon tea service; Mr. and Mrs. Hubert Schroder, timepiece Mrs. Richard Jones, silver serviette rings; Miss Ethel Jones, worked tablecloth; Miss Hilda Jones, worked afternoon ,serviettes Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Greenhouse, silver drawing-room lamp; Mrs. and Miss Morris, cut-glas3 salad bowl, celery jar and cucumber dish; Miss M. Morris, set of matted d'oyleys; Mrs. Reuben and Miss Edith M. Roberts, silver and glass sardine dish; Mrs. and Misses Lee, ginger jar; the Rev. and Mrs. J. Pryce-Davies, silver teapot; Mrs. Morris, one dozen serviettes; Miss Sallie Jones, set of netted d'oyleys and handkerchief satchet; Mr. and Mrs. Piercy, copper kettle; Mr. and Mrs. Peters, silver cheese stand; Miss Dicken, silver salt cellars; Dr. and Mrs. W. Roberts, silver and china bread stand; Mr. and Mrs. A. Huke, silver cheese, butter and biscuit dish Mr. and Mrs. Thos. Wright, silver cake basket; Miss Harriet Chambers, damask tablecloth; Mr. W. O. Roberts, white counterpane Mr. Lewis Williams, pair of brass candlesticks; Mr. and Mrs. R. A. Jones, set of oak trays the Rev. G. F. Hodges, book,' Of the imitation of Christ'; Mr. T. M. Roberts, silver button hook; Mrs. and Mr. Frank Bolland, drawing room chair; Mrs. Price, fish slice and fork; Miss Cissy Jones, glass dishes; Mr. and Mrs. H. Sweten- ham, cut glass scent bottle, with silver stopper Right Hon. W. E. Gladstone, set of silver tea- spoons; Mrs. W. E. Gladstone, 'The Psalter, with a concordance'; Mrs. Horn, china toilet set; Mr. Lockwood, set of Doulton jugs; Mr. and Mrs. Podmore, silver entree dish; Mr. and Mrs. George Parker, silver pepper box and mustard pot Sunday School Scholars at Saltney Ferry, glass jar, with silver lid and spoon, Charlotte jugs and cheese stand; English employes at Well House, clock; Irish employes at Well House, Limoges china fruit dish; Mrs. Liver- sedge, pair of vases; the Rev. Stephen E. Gladstone, devotional book; the Misses Williamson, sideboard cloth and d'oyleys; the Rev. T. P. and Mrs. Dimond Hogg, sugar basin Mr. and Mrs. Beckett, silver bread stand; Mr. and Mrs. Parry, china toilet set; Mr. Augustus Spencer, silver cream jug; Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Brassey Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Cunnah; Mrs. and Miss Hay, dressing jacket; Mrs. Thomas, silver cruet; Mr. and Mrs. A. Wright, glass dishes.

SHOCKING CHILD NEGLECT AT BUCKLEY. At Buckley Petty Sessions, on Monday, before Messrs. J. Watkinson, F. L. Hancock, and W. Catherall, a Nant Mawr collier, named Joseph Rowlands, and his wife, Margaret, were charged with cruelty to their children, John, Joseph, Isaac, and Annie, of the respective ages of fourteen, nine, and seven years, and nineteen months respectively.—Mr. G. H. Bradley, who prosecuted on behalf of the N.S.P.C.C., stated that the case was a bad one. At the request of the Society's inspector, Dr. Fraser saw the children, found them covered with lice and in a filthy condition, and came to the conclusion that the sooaer they were removed from the custody of the parents the better. One of the elder children earned 12s. a week, and another 9s., while the father earned 27s. to 35s. a week at the Llay Hall Colliery.— Dr. David Fraser, Buckley, said he visited the house on July 29th. The eldest boy was clean and healthy, but covered with lice, and he had evidently made an attempt to keep himself clean, but it would be impossible for him to do so in the condition of the house. The next boy was the worst of the lot, while the youngest child was healthy, but infested like the others. The infant was fairly well clothed, but the next two had no shirt, one of them having a filthy rag round his neck, his clothes being in rags. The eldest boy was fairly well clothed. Upstairs the children's bed was simply composed of dirty straw, while the sheet and counterpane on the other bed were almost black. Altogether the conditions under which the children were brought up were prejudicial to their health, and likely to induce fevers, &c.-Inspector Rowland, N.S.P.C.C., visited the house on July 29th, in company with Sergeant Langdon, and found the three children, John, Isaac, and Annie, there. They were in a deplorable state, being dirty and covered with vermin. Upstairs there was a wooden framed bed in which the woman and two of the little children slept, while on the other side of the room was a heap of filthy straw, on which the others slept. All the food in the house before one of the sons came in with a 3d. loaf, was a thin crust of bread. The woman stated that her husband was earning 27s. to 35s. a week, and two of her sons, one of whom was one of the children mentioned, earned 12s. and 9s. a week. She also stated that her husband seldom came home sober, and was always abusing her and the children. She said that a few days before she had had to run for her life.— Sergt. Langdon, who accompanied the previous witness gave corroborative evidence.—In her defence the woman reiterated the statements she had made to the inspector. She said her husband abused her, and did not give her enough to keep the house properly.—After consideration, the magistrates said that the case was one of serious neglect. They fined each defendant 20s. and costs (9s. 3d. each), or a month, the two youngest children to be main- tained by their parents for two months in the workhouse.

The Duke of Norfolk has declined the invita- tion to be Lord Mayor of Sheffield another year. SAD DEATH OF A CLERGYMAN.—A distressing accident occurred at the Lodore Falls, Keswick, on Saturday. The Rev. Gabriel Stokes, curate of Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, was stay- ing with his brother-in-law, Canon Lewis, of St. Ann's, Nottingham, at Thoanthwaite Vicarage. The party visited the falls in the afternoon, Mr. Stokes being in the rear. The foremost members of the party reached the hotel adjoining the falls, but Mr. Stokes did not arrive, and his body was subsequently found in one of the deep pools, with a terrible gash in the head. He had evidently fallen from the roeks above.

HOLT. DEMOLISHING THE ANCIENT TOWN HALL.—The most conspicuous building for centuries in the ancient borough of Holt has been the Town Hall. Until within four or five years ago it was always used by the burgesses for the holding of their meetings, at which, until the municipal corporation was dissolved, the Mayor and other officers were annually elected and the Revising Barrister held his court. Owing to certain disagreements having arisen between them and the Charity Commissioners, the hall was allowed to dilapidate into its present dangerous state. However, it has latterly been agreed to have the building pulled down, and the ground laid out and adorned with trees. The contract has been let to Mr. John Barnes, of Holt.

HA WARDEN. HAWARDEN COUNTY SCHOOL.—The results of the recent examinations held under the Science and Art Department, South Kensington, are now to hand. Considering the boys have been under instruction for only one session (since September last), the results are exceptionally good, for out of 15 boys sitting for freehand and model drawing there are but two failures in each subject. This speaks well for the art master (Mr. J. Hanmer Hutchings, of Chester). The following is a list of the successful candi- dates — Freehand, elementary stage-first class, F. J. Dean, E. Coppack, E. Jones, C. W. Watmough; second class, H. Jones, W. S. Lindop, A. Astbury, H. Conway, A. Prince, C. H. P. Haswell, C. A. Coppack, J. F. Hughes, B. S. Dean. Model, elementary stage-first class, F. J. Dean, E. Jones second class, E. Coppack, C. A. Coppack, A. Astbury, C. H. P. Haswell, W. S. Lindop, H. Conway, H. Jones, A. Prince, B. S. Dean, C. W. Watmough. Freehand, advanced stage-second class, W. E. Blane.

TATTENHALL. SUNDAY SCHOOL TREAT.—On Wednesday afternoon the annual treat of the Church of England Sunday School took place in the Rectory grounds. A goodly number of scholars, with their mothers, sat down to a capital tea, provided by the rector (the Rev. C. L. Arnold). The following teachers were present, and attended to the wants of the children in an efficient manner:—Mr. and Mrs. Arthan, Mr. T. R. Cooke (superintendent), the Misses Woollams, Cope, G. Cooke, G. Jones, Elsie Jones, Martha Spencer, and Gerty Aldersey. After tea various games and races were in- dulged in by the scholars, who appeared to thoroughly enjoy themselves. This treat was given instead of the annual trip to the seaside. At the close of the evening presents were given to each scholar, the gifts of Mr. and Mrs. Arnold. Four scholars were presented with the rector's special prize for 1896, they not having missed one attendance during the year; Martha Lloyd for the third time, Thomas Henry Woollams for the second time, and Mabel and George Rowlands for the first time.

NESTON. SUDDEN DEATH OF AN INFANT. Mr. J. C. Bate held an inquest at the Brown Horse Inn on Wednesday, touching the death of the infant daughter of William Cookson, of Brook- street, Neston. The deceased, who was only 13 months old, took ill on Sunday, but as she appeared to be better on Monday, the doctor was not called in. As the deceased was being nursed by the grandmother, however, in the afternoon it suddenly became worse and died. Evidence to this effect was given by the mother and the grandmother. The jury returned a verdict of Death from natural causes.' FRIENDS IN NEED.—A correspondent draws special attention to the valuable service ren- dered to the Neston police a few days ago by Messrs. Thomas Swift and Samuel Hancock, two local tradesmen. Constable Duttton was being assaulted in Pyke's Wint, which at present enjoys the reputation of being the roughest quarter of Neston, and things were looking very serious for the representative of law and order, when the gentlemen named voluntarily went to the officer's assistance, and helped him to convey the prisoner to the police station. It is rarely that anyone undertakes such a disagree- able public duty without being called upon, and the moral effect of the gallant tradesmen's action cannot fail to be of a salutary description. A BAD OUTLOOK FOR THE 'JAP.VIICB.Mr. J. H. Deakin, of Leighton House, Neston, has invested in a handsome motor car, for from four to six passengers. It is in the form of a Stanhope phaeton, and has all the very latest improvements. Mr. Deakin has been running it freely upon the roads and through the town, where the novel conveyance has attracted much attention. It is capable of great speed, and can be manipulated with ease, and while running at a hich rata of sneed can be verv promptly brought to a standstill. A deep gloom is, it is stated, beginning to overcast the coachmen of the district, who fear that they and their steeds of bone and muscle will soon be looked upon as relics of an antiquated past. PRESENTATION TO DR. YEOMAN.—Dr. J. B. Yeoman, of Neston, who trained the last St. John Ambulance Class in connection with the Neston Technical Education Classes, has been made the recipient of a testimonial by the members of the class. The presentation took place at the school, and Mr. J. Pemberton, the chairman of the Neston Technical Education Classes, who presided, referred to the excellent teaching of Dr. Yeoman, every member who presented himself (about 16) having success- fully passed the examiner. Mr. Maddock, a member of the committee, also complimented Dr. Yeoman upon the admirable result achieved, and spoke of the value oi ambulance work generally. Mr. Pemberton on behalf of the members, afterwards handed Dr. Yeoman a handsome silver-mounted malacca cane, bearing the inscription- Presented to Dr. J. B. Yeoman, by the Neston Ambulance Class, 1897.' Dr. Yeoman, in acknowledging the gift, said his experiences as a teacher extended over six years, but he had never had more attentive pupils than the members of the Neston Ambulance Class, who had throughout made every effort to benefit by his teaching. Messrs. Miles Anyon and Percy Maddock, members of the class, promoted the testimonial. QUOIT CLUB PRIZE DISTRIBUTION.—The annual prize distribution in connection with the Neston and District Quoit Club took place in the Volunteer Drill Hall, Neston, on Wednesday evening. The Rev. Canon Turner (vicar) presided over the gathering, which numbered about fifty persons, and an excellent supper was served prior to the distribution, the customary loyal toasts being dispensed from the chair.—In referring to the affairs of the club, Canon Turner spoke of the excellent play exhibited by the members, and of the proud position the club had made and main- tained in the quoiting world of Wirral. He was glad to learn that day that in connec- tion with the Lancashire and Cheshire competi- tion one of the Ness Holt members had won a silver medal. (Applause.) He was not a member of their own club, but there was a brotherly feeling between them, and they were pleased at the member's success. (Applause.) —The Rev. H. R. Sherwen afterwards formally proposed the Club,' remarking that it was one of the most permanent institutions in the parish.—Mrs. Turner, amid much applause, afterwards proceeded to distribute the prizes, the successful competitors being as follows :—First prize, John Medcalfe, timepiece, presented by the hon. sec. (Mr. Joseph Conway); 2nd prize, T. Coventry, jun., silver tankard pre- sented by Mr J. G. Churton, Manor House; 3rd prize, Robert Kameen (captain), set of carvers presented by Mrs. Turner; 4th prize, Robert Peers, set of spoons presented by Lever Brothers; 5th prize, Albert Cassell, cup pre- sented by Mr. Charles Jones.—Mr. Conway, in proposing a vote of thanks to Mrs. Turner, spoke of the many kindnesses she had shewn the club, and made a complimentary reference to Mrs. Barrett, who was also present, his remarks being heartily applauded.—The Chairman, in returning thanks for Mrs. Turner and himself, said they would gladly come forward at any time that they could be useful. In proposing a vote of thanks to Mr. Joseph Conway, the hon. sec., he spoke of the great services rendered by him to the club, and of the valuable clock which he had contributed as a prize. The toast was received with musical honours and hearty cheers, several of the latter being thrown in for Mrs. Conway. The following musical pro- gramme was afterwards rendered:—Mr. T. Medcalfe, Tm off to Philadelphia;' Mr. E. Graves, 'To-morrow will be Friday;' R. Barrett, song;' E. Flood, 'A soldier and a man;' Mrs. Graves, Sunshine;' Mr. Sherwen, song; Mr. C. Roberts,' Paddy's Wake;' W. T. Coventry, song Mr. J., Phillips,' Army and Navy;' Mr. W. Adamson, I Dick's courtship;' W. Briscoe, All that glitters is not gold W. Devaney,' I fell in deep love;' A. Small, Love among the roses;' E. Kenny, 'Molly Brannigan;' National Anthem.

MOLD. SCHOOL BOARD.—This monthly meeting was held on Wednesday. Present, the chairman (the Rev. E. Bithel), the Revs. E. M. Roderick and W. Morgan, and Messrs. Prince, Lamb. and Davies. One of the chief points of the meeting was the creating of Buckley into an urban district and its effect upon the School Board area. According to a letter read from the Clerk to the County Council, it appears that the new district will take in about 4,094 acres, the ratable value of which is £17,964, with an estimated population of 3,520 The Board, to ascertain its position, wrote to the Local Government Board, and received a reply that with the order made by the Flintshire County Council for a constitution of a new parish and urban district, their lordships pro- pose to recommend to the Board the provision should be made in the confirming order for the formation of a united school district, con- sisting of the new parish constituted by the order and the remainder of the existing parish of Mold rural and urban, and the Board passed a resolution in favour of the proposal.—The clerk was instructed to draw out a form of tender for the supply of cooks, apparatus, &c., and to ask each one that tenders to go through the form of discount they would allow.— Mr. Prince stated he thought it was high time to take action for the evening continuation schools, and it was resolved the clerk should send out notiees for probable students to send in their names.—The Rev. E. M. Roderick asked the feeling of the Board as to Sunday Schools being kept open now the fever is so prevalent, but no action was taken.

WHITCHURCH. Boy's EXTRAORDINARY CRIMINAL RECORD.— At Whitchurch, on Friday afternoon, William Griffiths, aged ten, pleaded guilty to stealing 10s. belonging to Allen Taylor, lodging-house keeper. With part of the money Griffiths had a trip to Manchester, and returning, purchased a fishing rod. Mr. Cann, police court missionary, Shrewsbury, offered to take charge of the boy, and take him immediately to Dr. Stephenson's Children's Home at Birmingham, to which the magistrates and the boy's father consented. Five previous convictions were recorded—three for theft and two for housebreaking.—At the same court, Harry Bentinck, aged nine, was ordered to receive three strokes with a birch- rod for setting fire to a stack of hay. CHURCH SUNDAY SCHOOL TREAT. — The children attending these schools, to the number of about 500, had their annual treat on Tuesday afternoon. This year, by the kind invitation of Mr. G. P. Thompson, it was held in his beautiful grounds at Dodington. A procession was formed at the schools at 2.15, and headed by the volunteer band, the scholars marched to church, where a short service was held. The children afterwards marched to Mr. Thompson's residence where tea was served on the lawn. Sports were held for prizes kindly provided by Mr. Thompson. FLOWER SHOW AND SPORTS.—The 17th annual Floral and Horticultural Show was held on Wednesday, in Mossfields Park, by permission of Mr. J. Jones. There were some 620 exhibits, which were scarcely up to the average, but the unusual long spell of fine weather will account for this. Whatever was deficient in quantity was made up in quality, the judges—Messrs. T. R. Cuckney, gardener to Mrs. A. P. Heywood- I/onsdale, and Charles Flack, gardener to the Marquis of Cholmondeley—agreeing that in this respect it was most satisfactory. Among the honorary exhibitors were Lord Kenyon, Hon. Mrs. E. Kenyon, Mr. J. Jones, and Mr. W. H. Jones, Station Nurseries, each making a very good and attractive display. Capt. R. W. Ethelston is the president of the show, the lady patronesses being Mrs. Heywood-Lonsdale, Mrs. Sandford, Mrs. Nottingham, the Misses Kent, and Mrs. Churton. There is a large committee, and the whole arrangements, under the immediate superintendence of the energetic and obliging secretary, Mr. Hugh Booth Lee (solicitor), were of the most perfect kind. There was a keen competition for mest of the events in the sports. The officials were:—Judges, Mr. J. Jones, Capt. Ethelston, Mr. J. Walker, and Mr. C. W. Alston (Hanmer); starter, Mr. H. H. Etches; handicappers, Messrs. T. P. Wynn, E. W. Speed, and John Woollam.

SAIGHALL. THE RECENT FARM FIRE.—The serious fire at Green Farm puts one in mind of the necessity for the formation of a fire brigade for the district. The Local Government Act of 1894 gives power to local authorities to establish brigades. THE STORMS.—The thunderstorms and the accompanying deluges of rain missed this dis- trict almost entirely, and our gardens and fields are literally parched up. The ordinary imple- ments of horticulture are absolutely useless, as nothing less than a steam cultivator would break the hard soil. A great scarcity of water prevails throughout the entire district, many cottagers having to travel long distances for a supply, which is very frequently of extremely doubtful purity. THE CHURCH.—The Rev. G. J. Everest, M.A., of Teynham, Kent, is in charge of the parish for the present month, during the absence of the vicar, who has gone north on a well-earned holiday. The vicar, who takes a warm interest in the local Foresters' court, makes special men- tion in this month's parish magazine of the good work carried on by Court Sellars. At a recently held meeting of the church council it was announced that the debt still remaining on All, Saints' Church was £285, but if all interested j in church work will put their shoulders to the wheel the church will soon be free from debt. 1 SALE OF WORK AND GARDEN PARTY.—The trustees of the Primitive Methodist Chapel having decided to renovate and refurnish the building at a cost of JE80, a sale of work and garden party was held at Mr. John Minshull's, Mollington, on Wednesday afternoon. About 250 persons sat down to tea, the visitors includ- ing the Revs. W. R. Bird, H. Davenport, and T. Kynaston. After tea a concert was held in a tent, and it proved a great success. The Misses and Master Savin, of Birken- head gave selections on the violin and mandoline, with pianoforte accom- paniment, in a highly creditable manner. Mr. John Vernon's male voice party, Miss Hales, and Miss Graham contributed vocal pieces with success, while Miss M. Hughes and A. Martin, Mollington, were as successful as ever—indeed the efforts of all the performers were highly appreciated by the large audience. The financial result was satisfactory, the nett profit being about £25.

~~WREXHAM. COLLIERY FATALITY. — The East Denbigh- shire Coroner (Mr. W. Wynn Evans), on Tuesday afternoon, held an inquiry at the County Hall, Wrexham, respecting the death of Timothy Parsonage, a collier, aged 31. The deceased had been employed at the Brynmally Colliery, and was working down the pit on Thursday morning last. He removed a prop; from the roof that was in his way, and loosened a large stone, which fell upon him, and so badly injured him that he died from a. fractured and dislocated spine shortly afterwards.—John Roberts, a fireman, employed at the colliery, who examined the place shortly before the accident, said he did not think the stone would have fallen if the prop had been left up.—The jury returned a verdict of Accidental death.' THE LATE DR. EDWARD DAVIES.—On Tues- day afternoon, amid many manifestations of regret, the mortal remains of the late Dr. Edward Davies, J.P., who died suddenly on Friday, were laid to rest in Wrexham Cemetery. The mourners were numerous, and included the deceased gentleman's fellow-justices on both county and borough benches, his local pro- fessional brethren, the Mayor (Mr. Philip Yorke), aldermen and councillors of the borough, the Corporation officials, police, and railway servants at the Great Western Railway Station. The wreaths were so numerous that most of them had to be conveyed in a separate carriage. The line of route was crowded on either side, while a number of shops were partially closed during the afternoon. The cortege, which was a lengthy one, first went to the parish church, where the usual service was gone through by the vicar (the Rev. Canon W. H. Fletcher) and the Rev. LI. Wynne Jones. The hymns Now the labourer's task is o'er' and 'Peace, perfect peace' were sung, and as the mourners filed down the aisle and out of the sacred fane, the impressive ceremony was com- cluded by the playing on the organ of the 'Dead March' in Saul. The Vicar officiated at the graveside. The following were the chief mourners:—Dr. J. E. H. Davies and Mr. W. L. Cameron Davies, sons Miss Davies and Miss Gwendoline Davies, daughters: Dr. William Davies (Southport), brother; Mrs. Â. A. Corte, sister; Dr. A. A. Corte (Blackburn), brother-in- law; Mr. W. C. Bull (Oswestry), brother-in- law Miss F E. Corte, niece; and Messrs. T. E. Davies, Jonathan Davies, and LI. E. Davies, nephews.

TARPORLEY. THE JUBILEE FESTIVITIES.—The balance- sheet of the Diamond Jubilee celebration in this town has been published, and shews the receipts to be £81 16s. OJd. (this includes the proceeds of an entertainment given by the Tarporley Dramatic Company which amounted to £2). The expenditure was as follows:— 2d.; sports, £3 15s. 6il.; and the ^i-irious expenses, £ 29 17s. 4Jd., leaving a balance in hand of £ 15 Is. It has been decided to divide this balance among the poor people in the parish who are 60 years of age or over. There has also been a balance-sheet published by the Half-Holiday Association, who it will be remembered greatly assisted the Parish Com- mittee in the Jubilee festivities by taking all the old folk of 60 years and over off their hands and entertained and fed them in a special tent which they provided. Their receipts were as follows Proceeds from concert, £17 18s. lOd.; sale of bread, &c., after tea, JE1 6s. 3; and their expenditure, tea and gifts to old folks and expenses connected therewith, JE14 17s. 7d., leaving a balance to be paid into the concert fund of JE4 7s. 6d.

« FRODSHAM. THE PRICE OF BREAD.—The master bakers here have raised the price of bread half-penny a 41b. loaf. A FARMER'S SUDDEN DEATH.—On Thursday, at the Travellers' Inn, Five Crosses, near Frodsham, Mr. Bate, the district coroner, held an inquest on the body of William Hoose, farmer, of Newton, who as stated in our inner pages, died suddenly in a field in Townfield- lane, Overton, on Tuesday night. Richard Fletcher, labourer, said deceased apparently appeared in his usual health on the nig-ht in question, and about 7.15 went into another field close to to look after the horses. As he was away a long time for such a short journey, witness went to ascertain the cause, and found him lying dead. A verdict of Death from heart disease' was returned. THE HARVEST.—Farmers here are in the midst of an unusually busy corn harvest, which is, on the whole, above the average. The length of straw has, during the last few weeks, improved beyond all expectations. Turnips, and, in fact, all root crops, now look exceedingly well, having benefited largely by the copious showers of the past fortnight. Apples and pears are, with few exceptions, very scarce, notwithstanding the fine show of bloom in the spring, and of stone fruit there is practically none. One large Frodsham farmer, who has extensive land near Ellesmere Port, has about 350 tons of hay in splendid condition to get in yet, which will, granted even fine weather, take him more than a month. He evidently believes that to get good work his labourers must be housed and fed in a proper manner, and has, therefore, wisely pro- vided accommodation for them on the scene of action. Besides paying them an average wage, he is boarding and lodging them in well-fitted huts, free of expense.

The members of the National Amalgamated Society of Painters and Decorators, who number nearly 8,000, have voted in favour of the eight-hours day. Sir Isaac Holden, baronet, died suddenly on Friday at his residence, near Keighley, in his ninety-first year. The deceased who ended his parliamentary life in 1895, is succeeded to the title by Mr. Angus Holden, Liberal member for Buckrose division. On Saturday two legs and an arm, supposed to belong to the mutilated body of a young woman found yesterday, were discovered in the Forth of Clyde canal, Glasgow. A black stocking and high-heeled boot were on one leg. It is supposed the body has been about a fort- night in the water. It has not yet been identified. It having become known that the Glasgow and West of Scotland lithographers will join in a demand for a 48 hours week, the Glasgow and District Master Lithographers' Association on Thursday issued a manifesto on the subject. The manifesto suggests that. as the men's intention is to attack Glasgow first, the masters should form a federation to resist the demand in a body. DEATH BEFORE CROSS-EXAMINATION. — An extraordinary explanation of a suicide was given in the Birmingham Coroner's Court, on Wednesday afternoon. The deceased, an elderly man, named Boddington, was a painter, and his employer was the defendant in a civil action at the assizes. The former, who had been subpeened as a witness, had a dread that under cross-examination his memory would fail him. On the day the action was expected to come on he hung himself to a beam in the works of which he was manager.—A verdict of Suicide while temporarily insane' was returned. FLINTSHIRE MAN CHARGED WITH MAN- SLAUGHTER. — At Rochester, on Saturday, Llewellyn Davies, mate of the ship Margaret Hobby, was charged with the manslaughter of Robert Bethell, one of the ship's company. The men fought after returning to the vessel from a carousal on shore, and deceased fell, striking his head against an iron bolt which projected from the side of the ship, and he was picked up dead. Davies was discharged, and a remarkable scene then occurred. The prisoner and his relatives, who had travelled up from Flintshire, burst into tears, and his sister, sobbing con- vulsively, threw her arms round his neck and embraced him, while the spectators in court testified their approval of the decision by applause, which was with difficulty suppressed. THE DOOM OF THE SPARROW.—Miss E. A. Ormerod, F.E.S., has just written a little pamphlet about the house sparrow and his con- nection with the agricultural interest. The result of a mass of accumulated evidence as to the foodstuffs most common with the passer domesticus' is an emphatic verdict against the little, but apparently by no means innocent, bird. It is said that 75 per cent. of the food of a sparrow that has reached an age of discretion and discrimination is corn of some kind. More- over, he drives off various insectivorous and therefore more useful birds. In some of the American States legislation has been invoked, and Miss Ormerod urges similar action in this country. The amount of damage caused by the sparrow she estimates at between £1,000,000 and £2,000,000 a year. WIVES AND MONEY-LENDERS.—In a case heard at Whitechapel County Court, on Wed- nesday, application was made by an ex- policeman named Hay den to have a judgment set aside which had been obtained against him by the Phoenix Loan Company on a promissory note for money lent.—Hajden denied that the signature to the note was his. At Judge Bacon's request he signed his name three times in court, and the signatures were of quite a different character from that on the promissory note. He said he knew nothing about the matter, and told an extraordinary tale. It appeared that his wife and another woman went to the loan office to borrow £5. They were told that it would be necessary for their husbands to sign the note. Subsequently they attended with two men. who represented them- selves as the husbands, and forged their respective names. A widow was also induced to sign as surety. It had been discovered that the man who signed for Hayden had since died in London Hospital. After these proceedings began Hayden's wife absconded, and he did not know her whereabouts. The manager of the loan office admitted that the man who signed the note as Hayden was not the present defendant.—Judge Bacon said that the judg- ment must be set aside. The loan office had been the victim of a very pretty conspiracy. DANGERS OF SAFETY MATCHES.—A curious action for personal injuries was heard at the Bromley County Court on Wednesday, when a Miss Claxton, of Beckenham, sued a grocer named Booth, of the same place, for £50 damages for injuries sustained through the ignition of a box of safety' matches, warranted to strike only on the box.' The matches were purchased from defendant's shop in April last, and when plaintiff was in the act of opening a box the matches suddenly ignited, inflicting such injuries that for six weeks she was incapacitated from carrying on her business. The matches, some of which were produced in court, were of Swedish make, of the' Windmill' brand, and were supplied to the defendant by Messrs. Bryant and May, it being explained on that firm's behalf that they did occasionally supply foreign matches in this way, but only to oblige a customer.'—For the defence it was urged that the term safety matches' was merely a trade designation, and implied no legal warranty.—His Honour held, however, that. safety matches' had come to be generally considered as matches striking only on the box, and therefore as being safe in that respect. The way in which these matches had ignited was quite inconsistent with such a description. He gave judgment for £21 10s., with costs on the scale between. £20 and JB50.