The Chester Courant and Advertiser for North Wales

SINGULAR ARCHAEOLOGICAL DISCOVERY ♦ In the course of past summer Mr. R. O. ones, of Ruthin, has carried out a search on the Ruthin side of the Hiraethog Mountains for archreological remains, and has succeeded in finding nine stone circles hitherto unknown. Some of the circles are perfect and some imper- fect, the latter having probably been deprived of their stone for building purposes. The out- side of each circle is composed of large stones, and in those circles that have not been tampered with the outer stones are twelve in number. The diameter of the circles ranges from 18ft. to 8ft. Mr. R. O. Jones has been in communication with Professor John Rhys (author of "Celtic Britain,") who holds that the remains are far more ancient than the Ogam inscribed stone found in the same region, and now at Pool Park, Ruthin. On Saturday Mr. J.Romilly Allen, F.S.A., of the Cambrian Archaeological Association, addressed a letter to Mr. Jones stating that the notes taken by the latter on this subject are of great interest, and that he thought it would be very desirable to have a plan of the place made, ^nd excavations entered upon to determine the nature of one part of the find. Mr. Romilly len also states that the circles of standing ^ones described by Mr. Jones are probably agan. They are sepulchral, and often have a ,lst in the centre containing an urn or calcined ones. It is understood that the permission of Ul^ground landlord will be sought for a com- investigation of this important discovery. v

rBy MENTOR.1 prom what one reads the Wallasey Urban uncil appear to have got into a strange fuddle in their accounts, through the neglect— ot to use a harsher word—of their late clerk, 0 has made himself scarce, at all events for e Prfcsent. The audit of the Council's accounts 3 been proceeding for some time, and the late rk failed to appear, though summoned to The auditor has handed to the present acting clerk a list of surcharges and dis- tances in the accounts of the late clerk ^Uounting to £1,926 5s. lid., and a further sum fo cos^8 recovered a°d not accounted These sums, it is alleged, were mis- Ppropriate(| by the late clerk (Danger by me), for whose apprehension a warrant has een issued. Th Qe accounts of the Council seem to have een conducted ina very free and easy fashion," o quote the words of aTocal contemporary, for n °nly have these defalcations taken place, p. auditor surcharges the chairman of the Qlnan(;Q Committee and the chairman of the oUncil respectively to the tune of X42, made 0j °' seven sums of £ 6 each, pergonal expenses ^elSeVGn meml:)ers who thought to treat them- th ratepaj'ers' expense, to a jaunt on 6 trial trip 0f the steamer John Herron at ^aburgh. the trial trip of the steamer had to do the Wallasey Urban Council does not ge^ear" Their attendance at Edinburgh, it of MS' Was nofc authorised by any resolution 10 Council when the trial trip took place, no particulars have been furnished to Uo ^l*tor as to how the money was expended- the ratepayers are amused to learn ^essrs. Dunne and Joyce are surcharged effo 6 Matter, seeing that mainly by their rt8 the frauds on the Council were dis- covered. I notice that Mr. H. W. Cook, deputy Town Clerk of Oldham, has been appointed clerk of the Wallasey District Council at a salary of JE700 a year. An animated discussion ensued at the Wrexham Town Council following on the reception of a report by Mr. T. M. Lock wood, of Chester, respecting the purchasing of the site of the Willow Brewery, for baths, Ac- Alderman Samuel said the report looked as if it had been prepared with a view to get the Local Government Board to sanction the purchase of the site; but on being sharply taken to task, the worthy alderman made the amende honorable, and said it never was his intention to impugn the honour of Mr. Lockwood. At the same meeting a letter was read from Mr. J. Oswell Bury, secretary to the Wrexham Market Hall Company, Limited, stating that the offer of the Corporation to give £ 50,000 for the property and undertaking of that company had been accepted, subject to certain conditions named. It was resolved that the question should be discussed in committee at a special meeting of the Council. At the Local Government Board inquiry respecting an application by the Colwyn Bay and Colwyn Urban District Council to be allowed to borrow a sum of upwards of £10,000 for sewerage works, promenade works, and water supply, considerable opposition was ex- pressed by the inhabitants of Old Colwyn, on the ground that the scheme would involve the existence of manholes in the beautiful esplanade, and would contaminate the sea. Much argument was entered into pro and con during the sitting, respecting the merits of which the inspector will, of course, have to report. At the last meeting of the Crewe Council for the municipal year, the Town Clerk read a letter from the Light Railways Commissioners stating that they proposed to make an order in terms of a draft which was forwarded, authorising light railways in Crewe. It was resolved that the Council insist upon having inserted in the order a clause binding the pro- moters to construct the whole of the railways in the borough, and that the promoters give a bond of 9200 per mile to guarantee the con- struction of the lines. A long discussion took place upon the subject of getting a provisional order to empower the Council to set up an electric installation to supply the borough with electric light, and it was eventually resolved to apply to the Board of Trade for a provisional order under the Electric Lighting Acts.

DISTRICT AND PARISH COUNCILS. ELLESMERE PORT PARISH. The monthly meeting was held under the presidency of Mr. Stockton on Wednesday evening.—Mr. Shepherd drew attention to the need for a lamp in Lower Mersey-street. This gentleman, along with Mr. Pixton, was re- quested to visit the district, and report to next meeting. Attention was also drawn to the disgraceful state of Station-road on Sunday morning, owing to the loose paper deposited there. The Council agreed to report the matter to the District Council. The Sanitary Committee had inspected the whole parish during the month-each gentleman taking a section-and their reports were considered. On the whole the parish is in a fairly satis- factory sanitary condition.—The Clerk reported that the nuisance inspector would call and go through the reports, and, where necessary, have alterations made and nuisances abated.— Mr. Parker, the contractor, was present. He wanted information as to his action where the proper entrance to the ashpit was closed by the erection of sheds in the yards, and also when he found, as he often did, the ashpits full of old cans, brick ends, &c.-The Council informed him that he was not to empty those ashpits, but report the matter to the chairman of the Sanitary Committee. TARPORLEY DISTRICT. The District Council meeting was held on Thursday, there being present Dr. McCulloch (chairman), Messrs. Bate, Booth, Clarke, Cluett, Greenway, Hassall, Pickering, Symms, Wrench, and the Rev. Mr. Hughes, and Mr. T. Cawley (clerk), and Mr. J. Knight (surveyor). A com- munication was received from the secretary of the Cyclists' Touring Club, complaining of the damage done to the pneumatic tyres of cycles by thorns which had been left upon the high- way by the parties responsible for the up-keep and trimming of the adjoining hedges, and asking the Council to see that the objectionable hedge clippings were swept up at the end of each day's work, or before the wind distributed them all over the road, and pointing out that the offenders were liable to a penalty of 40s. over and above the damage which had been occasioned thereby. —The Rev. Mr. Hughes stated that he had observed that every highway authority in Lin- colnshire except one had taken notice of the 1 letter, and had instructed their surveyor to give the matter his attention; and he had noticed '1 that several London papers had commented very strongly on the action of those who had ignored the question. He did think it would entail little trouble and no great hardship on farmers; in fact, he knew of one farmer in Vtkinton who always cleared up the cuttings.—The Clerk said there was no doubt that a great number of punctures were occasioned by thorns, and the cycle was in general use, and the matter affected almost everybody.—Mr. Symms said the thorns would have to be swept up, and he considered that cyclists should pay a shilling tax, which would be something towards the cost of the roads.— Mr. Bate did not think the brushing up would make much difference to the farmer, and if the Council wished to express an opinion as to the taxation of cycles for registration pur- poses, &c., they could do so, but the question was as to complying with the communica- tion. Mr. Booth suggested that the Press make known the desire of the club, and the surveyor do what he could to prevent the thorns from being left on the roads. Mr. Symms thought it would be sufficient if it were made known that offenders would be liable to damages.—The Rev. Mr. Hughes pointed out that it was only the high- ways that were referred to; it did not mean I Frog-lane. (Laughter.)—Mr. Bate said dogs very often got thorns in their paws, and he believed if the farmers were asked they would kindly see that the cutting were properly brushed up.—After some further discussion it was resolved, on the motion of the Chairman, seconded by Mr. Booth, that the Clerk write to the Secretary of the Cyclists' Touring Club stating that the Council sympathised with the object of the communication, and the Surveyor was instructed to see that the Highway Acts with respect to the same were carried out. The Local Government Board, adverting to correspondence which had passed between them and the Council, enquired whether they were correct in supposing that the Council desired to have the powers of the vestry of the parish of Utkinton, under sections 3 and 4 of the Poor Rate Assessment and Collection Act, leby, transferred to them. The Clerk considered that inasmuch as the Council had not the power in relation to the other townships, he did not think it desirable, on the ground of uniformity, to take over the power which related to the compounding of poor rates.—The Rev. Mr. Hughes enquired if the power in respect to all the townships had been applied for, and the Clerk replied that the other townships had objected at vestry meetings. No meeting had been held at Utkinton.—Mr. Symms said he did not know the feeling of the people in Utkinton, but he thought they would wish to retain the power, and, on the motion of Mr. Pickering, seconded by the Chairman, it was rosolved to withdraw the application for the power.—The Rev. Mr. Hughes drew attention to the foot- path across the Long Hollands, and asked that it be repaired, and the Surveyor was instructep to see Mr. Marshall Brooks, and solicit his held as to it. HOPE PARISH. A meeting of this Council was held in Aber- morddu Board School on Tuesday evening, Mr. E. 0. Probert presiding. Mr. Bellis complained of the insolence of the sexton, who bad charged the Board with altering the scale of burial fees. He would like it to go forth to the public that they had not done so, neither had they the I power. These fees were fixed at a Vestry meet- ing in 1891. The following letter was received from Mr. H. G. Roberts, dated October 1st, 1897:—" Dear Mr. Probert, I give you notice that I resign my office as one of the Parish Council of the Parish of Hope (Lower Ward), and I send you notice as you are chairman. Although I so resign, I hope you and the other members of the Council will believe that my interest in all that appertains to the welfare of the parish will not in any way cease. I have to thank you and each of the members, and also the clerk, for the kindness and patience which have at all times been extended to me. Yours truly, H. G. Roberts."—Mr. Bellis thought it would be a wise plan if they were to ask Mr. Roberts to reconsider his decision. He was a useful man and always tried to serve the interests of the parish.—Mr. William Lewis seconded, and it was carried.—The Clerk said he had received the rent of the Castle from Mr. Eccleston, of the Derby Arms, and had also re- ceived notice from Lord Derby's agent for the rent of same. The question of the Clerk's salary was deferred until the next meeting.

.%aturbag's jootball. Chester scored their second win for the season on Saturday, but as on the ficst occasion the fixture was but a friendly one. Oswestry were their opponents, and the match was played at Tomkinson-street, Chester trying a new man named Robinson, who formerly played for Rutherford College, Newcastle, at centre-half. The visitors kicked off, and made a smart attack, which was repulsed after some exciting work in the Chester goal mouth. Chester then had a look in, but did not do anything of note, and Coventry was called upon to save, a hot shot from Watkin immediately afterwards going just over the bar. End to end play followed for fifteen minutes, the home forwards, who have been in excellent form for some weeks, earning cheers on several occasions for neat combination and good shooting. It was not until twenty minutes had passed that Blakeman and Speakman executed a pretty bit of work on the left, the result of which being that Speakman sent in an accurate oblique shot, which glanced off the custodian's shoulder into the net. Three minutes afterwards Spencer scored with a shot that went in in a hurry. Then the visitors woke up, and for a little time made things lively. Robinson, the new man, broke up a nice bit of combination, but the Oswestry men came again, and Pierce, the flyer, sent in a magnificent shot, which Coventry saved in grand style. The Cestrians with difficulty got away, Gordon and Spencer racing up the right, and passing the ball over to the other wing, Speakman obtained possession and shot, the sphere and the goalkeeper being uncere- moniously bundled through by a few of the homesters. This was the third, and the fourth followed from a free kick. Nothing daunted, the Oswestrians played up with renewed vigour, and attacked fiercely. Coventry ran out a few yards to save a dropping shot, but he failed to hold it, and the ball bounced off him sideways into the goal mouth. It was not through yet, though, and Coventry jumped across and back like a cat, punching the ball out, and accomplishing a splendid feat of custodianship. He saved three hot shots immediately afterwards, and then by a mistake on the part of the Chester backs the visitors were let in, and the ball was sent out of Coventry's reach by Watkin. Once more rousing themselves, the Cestrians bustled round smartly, and five minutes from half- time they obtained a free kick, which Carter placed well. Blakeman got hold of the ball and shot Chester's fifth and last goal, the ball going like a flash just under the bar. Goodrich scored an off side goal for Oswestry, and the whistle sounded for the interval, at which point the homesters were leading by five goals to one. The second half, in regard to the play, was a repetition of the first, Chester having rather the better of the exchanges, although they were unlucky in their attempts to score. Wilson, who had been hurt, went in goal for a while, Coventry having a turn as centre forward, and Spencer going back. It was rather amusing while it lasted, Pierce bad a shy, and Wilson saved, but the forwards coming again, Wilson was beaten by a fast low shot from Watkin, who thus scored goal number two for Oswestry. A few minutes later the Chester men resumed their ordinary position, and at once signalised the event by making a grand combined movement goalwards. Price had to concede a'.corner, from which nothing resulted, while the same player kept his charge in capital fashion for the rest of the game. Give and take play followed, and although both forward lives now and then became dangerous, no further scoring took place -owing to good defence on each- side-and the game ended Chester five goals, Oswestry two. The Chester Wednesday team encountered the Garrison on Wednesday at Tomkinson- street. The game during the first twenty minutes was evenly contested, the Garrison having hard lines in not scoring. The Wednes- day thereupon assumed the aggressive, and at half-time the result was 5-0 in favour of Wednesday, who ultimately won by nine to one.

VOLUNTEER SMOKING CONCERT^ On Wednesday evening the Chester Rifle Volunteers embarked on a new departure in the annals of the corps, in the form of a smoking concert, held in the large Drill Hall. Wednes- day night's concert was the first of a series which it is proposed to carry on during the winter months, and if the initial event may be taken as a criterion, the weekly socials cannot but be popular. The attendance exceeded the greatest expectation, as there were no fewer than 600 or 700 persons present, irrespective of the attendance of ladies, who were accommo- dated on the balcony. The hall had been tastefully decorated with flags and banners, and presented quite a cheerful appearance. A large number of officers were in attendance, including the following: 2nd V.B.C.R.: Colonel J. Ashton, Surgeon-Col. Hamilton, Majors Woolley, Smith, Dutton, and Gamon, Captains R. D. Turton, Ashton, Evans and Bromley, Surgeon-Captain King, Captain and Quarter- Master Edwards, Captain Bretherton and Lieut. J. Royle. Cheshire Depot: Captain Howard, Lieuts. Mayall and J. Howard, Sergeant-Majors Dutton and Graham, Quarter-Master Sergeant Hewitt. 1st C. and C.V.A.: Col. H. T. Brown, Captains Forestier, Walker and Wood, Colonel J. Sheriff Roberts, Lieuts. Smith, Lloyd and Jayne and Surgeon-Lieut. Wright. Col. Ashton having briefly welcomed the men, the following most enjoyable programme was gone through :— Song, The Old Brigade,' Sergt. J. Williams; song, My Sweetheart when a boy,' Mr. W. Davies musical sketch, Lieut. F. Lloyd (1st C. and C.V.A.); euphonium solo, Bandmaster Outhwaite; song, 'The King's Champion,' Mr. Phil Davies; song, The Guard Ship,' Sergt. Instructor McGarvie; comic reading, The Limburger Cheese, Mr. W. H. Hallmark; clog dance, the Taylor Brothers song, Alice, where art thou,' Sergt. Kendal; song, See me dance the Polka," Mr. E. D. Shepherd; song, 'Only a Sergeant,' Sergt. J. Williams; song, Mr. W. Davies; American soft shoe dance, the Taylor Brothers; song, Four Jolly Smiths,' Mr. Phil Davies; humorous sketch, Lieut. F. Lloyd (1st C. and C.V.A.); song, Brandy and Soda,' Capt. R. D. Turton; God Save the Queen.' Mr. R. Thomas played the accompani- ments. The committee who were responsible for the undertaking, and who are deserving of great praise for the able manner in which they discharged their duties, were as follow Captain F. O. Evans, Lieut. J. Royle, Quarter- Master-Sergeant Jones, Sergeants A. J. Red, J. C. H. Hankinson, Williams and Day.

LOCAL COMMISSIONS.—The London Gazette of Wednesday night contained the following Militia Infantry 3rd Battalion Cheshire Regiment, George Vernon Hornby to be second lieutenant, dated 27th instant. Volunteer Rifles: 2nd Earl of Chester Volunteer Battalion Cheshire Regiment, surgeon-lieutenant T. Selby resigns his commission, dated 27th inst. 4th Lincolnshire Regiment, Lieut. A. C. Wellesley, from 4th Cheshire Regiment, to be lieutenant. 2ND (EARL OF CHESTER'S) V.B. CHESHIRE REGIMENT.—Headquarters, Chester, 28th Oct., 1897. Regimental orders by Colonel J. Ashton, commanding. 1. The battalion will parade in review order in the Drill Hall, at 10.10 a.m. on Sunday, the 7th November, for divine service at St. Mary's-without-the-Walle. All members and honorary members are requested to attend. Band to attend. This parade will count towards efficiency for the year ending 31st October, 1898. 2. It is requested that all officers and N.C. officers provide themselves with a copy of the Musketry Regulations, also Manual and Firing Exercise for the Lee Metford Rifle. By order (signed), R. D. TURTON, captain, adjutant 2nd V.B. Ches. Regt.

TECHNICAL INSTRUCTION AT NESTON, « The annual meeting and prize distribution took place at Neston Town Hall on Monday evening. Mr. J. Pemberton, chairman of the Technical Committee, occupied the chair, and among others present were Mrs. Sawers (hon. secretary), Messrs. R. Bushell, J. S. Harmood- Banuer, Colonel Lloyd, Doctors Yeoman, Speechly, and Riddock, Miss Roberts (assistant hon. secretary), Mrs. R. Bushell, Mrs. Grenfell, Mr. and Mrs. W. Aaron, Miss Lyon, Mrs. Barrett, Mrs. Speechly, Miss L. Roberts, the Revs. H. R. Sherwen and J. Towert, J. G. Thomson, Mrs. Pemberton, Mrs. and the Misses Busby, Mr. and Mrs. R. L. Price, Mrs. D. C. Pugh, Mr. and Mrs. Gill, Mr. and Miss Maddock, J. Basnett, Miss Grundy (Haddon Hall, the Misses Gamon, Miss Lowe, Miss Carter, the Misses Peers, Mr. Lancaster, Mrs. J. C. Lloyd, Mr. Ward (organising secretary C.C. Technical Classes), W. Chambres, J. Evans, Percy Maddocks, M. Anyon, M. Gray, A. Price, J. Ward, K. Sawers, &c. Mrs. SAWERS read the annual report which stated that the total number of names on the register was 145, against 155 last year. Of this number there were 84 female students and 61 male students. At the examination held by the Lancashire and Cheshire Union of Institutes 14 candidates presented themselves in four subjects-cookery, laundry work, dress- making, and book-keeping. The 16 members of the ambulance class, who went in for examination, all passed. The usual grant of X10 was made to the committee by the local District Council to assist in the carrying on of these classes supplemented by a similar amount from the County Council. In addition the committee received a grant of £ 46 paid directly to them by the County Council. These sums, together with the fees of the pupils, the I? price of the dishes sold at the cookery class, amounted in all to X77 10s. 5., against which there was an expenditure ot X72 8s. 10d., leaving a balance in hand of £ 5 Is. 7Jd. Two prizes are given by the committee in each class. In moving the adoption of the report, Mr. PEMBERTON remarked that a large percentage of candidates had acquired certificates, but it was rather disappointing that more candidates had not presented themselves for examination. The committee were very anxious to meet the wishes of the community in the matter of selecting the various subjects for each session, but they could not expect them to continue the subjects which had not been adequately sup- ported. In commenting upon the financial portion of the report, he pointed out that the bulk of the expenditure was for teachers' fees and rents. In arranging the programme for the ensuing session, the committee had made a new departure. Laundry and book-keeping would give place to vocal music and amoulance for women, Dr. Yeoman having kindly consented to conduct two of the latter classes instead of one. (Applause.) The other subjects would be as before, viz., dress cutting, cooking, drawing, and wood carving. The idea of evening continuation classes had been con- sidered by the committee, and they had decided that as far as they (the committee) were concerned it was better left alone. He was glad to hear from Canon Turner, however, that the school managers intended to once more try the experiment of evening continuation classes during the ensuing winter. (Applause.) Colonel LLOYD seconded the motion, which was carried. Mr. WARD then sketched the history of the technical education movement in England, and described how the Chester County Council apportioned the sum granted to it by the government among the various places applying for it. On the motion of Mr. BANNER, Mr. Ward was thanked for his address, and Mrs. Grenfell then handed the prizes and certificates to the successful competitors, the latter being warmly applauded as they came forward. Mr. R. BUSHELL proposed a vote of thanks to Mrs. Grenfell, and a similar compliment to the chairman concluded the proceedings.

MYSTERIOUS DEATH OF A CHILD AT FRODSHAM. « PAINFUL REVELATIONS. On Wednesday evening the district coroner (Mr. J. C. Bate) held an inquest in the Court Room, Frodsham, respecting the death of William Henry Davies, aged 17 months, son of Mary Davies, of the Brow, Frodsham Bridge. The mother, a single woman, said the child had been ill since birth, vomiting everything half an hour after taking it. She took it to Dr. Selby when three months old, and he ordered her to give it barley and lime water mixed with the milk. She did so, but with no better result. She fed it generally on milk and Neaves' food, and anything they were having, such as bacon, etc. She took it altogether three times to the doctor. She went to work during the day time, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., when the child was nine months old, but not before, and then her mother and sister looked after it in her absence. The child slept with her and her other sister. The child ultimately died ou Tuesday morning, the 26th instant. The Coroner: How many people live in your house? Witness My father and mother and six others (but after a long pause) eleven of us.—The Coroner: What sort of a bed did you and the baby sleep on ?— Witness: A chaff bed on the floor.- Asked how much wage was earned by the family during the week, witness stated that her father got from 18s. to JE1, she got 8s,, her brother Joe gave her mother 10s. par week, and she had 3s. per week from the child's father. She believed the child was attended well, and washed regu- larly every day.—S. A. Davies, grandmother of the child, corroborated her daughter's evidence to some extent, and stated that the child was generally fed on milk, two or three pints of which they got every day, condensed milk, Neaves' food sometimes, and anything they were having. The child slept along with three others, including its mother, on a chaff bed, on the floor. She had a child herself about the same age as deceased, and it was doing very well. Her daughter's baby had been well fed, and had all the attention she could give it.- Wm. Davies, grandfather of the child, stated in cross-examination that he had moderately regular work, and that his daughter and wife looked well after the child as far as he could tell. The child had never gone without food, as when he had no money he had borrowed it to pur- chase milk, Ac.—Wm. McAteer, inspector of N.S.P.C.C., stated that from information received from the police of the district, he, along with them, visited the house, and found no one in the first room except the deceased child. It was lying on the sofa, and under- neath it was a sack or bag filled with a kind ef chaff. After a few minutes Eliza Davies came in, and said her grandmother was in bed, not ill, and the child's mother was at work. The child was partly dressed in a few dirty rags, and those were completely saturated. On having it undressed it was in such a filthy condition that he and the officers were oblig-ed to leave the house. Subsequently he examined it, and found it in an emaciated condition, its bones almost protruding through the skin, and its legs and arms devoid of flesh, practically nothing but skin and bone. It was 17 months old, and weighed exactly 101b. whereas the weight of an average child of that age should be 231b. some odd ounces. There was practically no bedding whatever with the exception of a piece of tick in the bedroom. There was chaff all about the room, the floor being filthy in the extreme. He ordered the child to be taken to the doctor at once. There was no food in the house.—Dr. J. T. Selby stated that he saw the child first about three months after birth, when it was suffering from an internal disorder, and his brother attended it later on for pleurisy and inflammation. On the 22nd October the child was brought to his surgery, and on examination he was surprised to find it in such an emaciated condition. It was fearfully thin, and he told the mother, or whoever brought it, to wrap it in something warm. He went to see it next day, and found it in a similar condition. He thought from the surroundings in the house that the child bad not been properly looked after. He had that day made a post-mortem examination of the body, and on opening the chest he found the muscles of the chest very pale and thin and wasted. There were still traces of the pleurisy that the child bad about seven months ago suffered from. The left lung was slightly congested at the base, and the surroundings of the heart were in a state of peculiar formation. The cause of death was acute inflammation of the heart. The pleurisy would not have the effect of reducing the child, and the disease of the heart was of recent stand- ing, the inflammation being the result of cold. The stomach had food in it. He should be of the opinion that the child had been neglected. The jury, after a short retirement, brought in the following verdict:—"That the child died from natural causes, viz., peritonitis, but the jury are of opinion that there has been srross neglect, and wish the Coroner to censure the mother and grandmother of the child." They were accordingly censured.

TARPORLEY. CONCERT.—The fifteenth of a series of popular entertainments annually given by the National School children was held on Wednesday. The hall was crowded by an enthusiastic audience, who appreciated the excellent manner in which the children rendered their respective parts. The part songs and choruses were very effective, and the whole performance reflected great credit on Mr. Garner and his staff, and also the children. During the interval the Rector (the Rev. Mr. Hughes) referred to the school build- ings, which were now the best in Tarporley. Since he came to the parish the average attendance was not more than 115, now it was 215. A vote of thanks was tendered by the audience to Mr. Garner and staff.

FRODSHAM. MISS CLOUGH'S ANNUAL CONCERT.—This event took place in the Town Hall on Thursday evening before a numerous and enthusiastic audience. The concert was opened by a mando- line trio, Tregantle March,' by Miss Milne and pupils. Miss Lilly Johnson, the soprano, ex- celled herself in her songs, In the Bellfry Tower' and 'Golden Love,' the latter especially being extremely well rendered. Mr. Phil Davies' fine bass voice was heard to great advantage in The Brave Old Oak and the Devout Lover' Mr. Egerton Snelson (tenor) acquitted himself finely in his songs, Queen of the Earth' and The Irish Emigrant,' the former being enthusiastically encored, for which he sang 'My Pretty Jane.' A very pleasing feature of the programme was the selection given by the Cereza Quartette, under the conductorship of Miss Milne, the performers being dressed in gipsy costume. Messrs. Snelson and Davies gave a fine rendering of the duet Love and War,' for which they were deservedly recalled. Mr. Loui Parry, of Chester, was the humorist of the evening, singing in his own inimitable style A Silver Wedding,' and receiving of course for this and his other songs the inevitable encores. Mr. B. Musgrove accompanied in his usual masterly style.

HA WARDEN. Mr. and Mrs. Gladstone were visited on Thursday by Dr. Dobie, of Chester, who was met by them on arriving at Hawarden Station —by the 2.30 train from Chester-whence they drove together to Hawarden Castle. Mr. and Mrs. Gladstone afterwards attended the even- ing service held at four o'clock in Hawarden Church. CONCERT.—On Tuesday evening a concert was held in aid of the (uads of the Hawarden Young Men's Society, in the Hawarden Gymnasium. The Rev. S. E. Gladstone occupied the chair. The programme was ably rendered as follows :— Pianoforte solo, Miss Wilcock; song, Angus McDonald,' Miss Ferguson; song, 'The Old Soldier' (Bevan), Mr. W. A. Hopton; recita- tion, Bishop and Caterpillar,' Mrs. Banister song, 'By Normandy's Blue Hills' (Frotere), Mr. A. Lyon song (comic), I'm fully too old for- them now,' Mr. Loui Parry; violin solo, 'Mazurka' (Carl Bohm), Mr. A. Lyon; song (humorous), (The Cautious Lover,' Mr. C. Hurlbutt; song, 'The Flight of Ages,' Miss Ferguson recitation, A Careful Woman.' Mrs. Banister; song, Mr. W. A. Hopton; song, Oh Promise Me' (Horven), Miss Walter-Thomas; song (comic), After all we've done for him,' Mr. Loui Parry. Mr. R. W. Pringle was the accompanist.

4 BACKFORD. ST. OSWALD'S PARISH CHURCH.—Instead of resuming the Sunday afternoon service at the beginning of October, as has been usual at this church, it has been decided, at the request of a considerable number of the parishioners, to continue the half-past six evening service for the present. If it should be found after trial that it is impracticable to continue the service at this hour, due notice of the change to the afternoon will be given. THE TRAIN SERVICE TO MOLLINGTON STATION. —As the remarks on the unsatisfactory state of the train service between Chester General Station and Mollington, which appeared in the Courant of the 20th ult., have met with general approval, and have been endorsed and extended by Constant Reader' in last week's issue, the various parish councils and meetings in the district might do worse things in the public interest than take up the matter of the train service, and endeavour by their represen- tations to improve it. Besides the great inconvenience with regard to a late train from Chester, pointed out by Constant Reader,' two other anomalies exist. Business men, school children, &c., desirous to making use of the batch of trains leaving Chester in all directions about nine o'clock in the morning, or of attending schools in the city, also opening about nine, have to leave Mollington about 7 45. Again, there is no morning train from Chester arranged for stopping at Mollington from 10.18 to 1.35 or so, according to the season of the year. It is almost needless to say that public convenience is not met as well as it might be in the above cases.

A CONNAH'S QUAY. PRESENTATION TO DR. PURDON.—On Friday evening, in St. Mark's Schools, Dr. C. S. Purdon was presented with an illuminated address and Beaufort cart by the friendly societies and other well-wishers, on the occasion of his marriage with Miss Ethel E. Lush, which took place on September 22nd last. Dr. Purdon has during the past twelve years had a very close connection with the friendly societies, having occupied the position of medical officer for that period. When it was known he was to be married, a committee representative of the Rechabites, Oddfellows, and Shepherds Societies was formed, and the result of their labours was seen on Monday. Mr. John Forber, chairman of the committee, presided, and there were present Mr. C. Davison, J.P., Mrs. and Miss Bate (Kelsterton House), the Rev. T. Williams, Mr. and Mrar W. H. Lloyd, Mr. and Mrs. T. J. Reney, Mrs. W. Baird, Mr. E. Blane, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Baird, Mr. Reney (The Cottage), Mr. Wm. Reney, Mr. A. J. Reney, Capt. S. Hughes, Capt. R. Williams, Mr. Thomas Rowlands, and Mr. P. Hughes, secretary and treasurer to the Presentation Committee.—The Chairman said Dr. Purdon had established a record for faithful service to the friendly societies, and they were glad of the opportunity of shewing their high appreciation of the conscientious manner he had discharged his duties.—Mr. C. Davison suitably made the presentation.—Dr. Purdon, in replying, said it was a matter of very great pride and gratifica- tion to him to know he had won their confidence and approval, and that they had appreciated his efforts.—The Rev. T. Williams offered to Dr. and Mrs. Purdon his sincere wishes for a long and happy wedded life. Mr. T. J. Reney proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Davison for making the presentation. Mr. Thomas Baird seconded, and it was carried. Thanks were then given to the vicar for the loan of the schools, and to the chairman for presiding. The address, which was in album form, and was beautifully illuminated, was as follows:- To Charles Sanderson Purdon, Esq., M.B. We, the members of the friendly societies of Connah's Quay, viz. :-The Independent Order of Rechabites (Salford Unity), the Independent Order of Oddfellows (Manchester Unity), the Ancient Order of Shepherds (Ashton Unity), and other well-wishers, beg to congratulate you upon the occasion of your marriage with Miss Ethel E. Lush, September 22nd, 1897. We feel that we cannot allow such an auspicious occasion to pass without tendering to you some expression of our esteem and regard, and therefore ask your accept- ance of this address and Beaufort cart as a token of the same. Your valuable service to us as our medical officer for the past twelve years, and the faithful and conscientious way you have discharged your duties have endeared you to us all. We hope the cordial relations existing between us may long continue, and that yourself and Mrs. Purdon may be spared for many years to live and labour among us, and that your future may be one of happiness. John Forber, chairman; Thomas Rowlands^ treasurer; P. Hughes, hon. secretary. Committee representative of the societies :—William Reney, Thomas Baird, Walter Baird, William Edwards, Thomas Wood, James Bithell, Thomas J. Reney, Edward Blane, John Ellis, Joseph H. Wright, Robert Williams, Alexander Bibby, Thomas Lloyd.

I WHY VAN HOUTE COCOA IS The best for Children Because it is the richest in that digestible Albumen which nourishes the body, and in the Phosphates which build up the bones and tissues. The best for Mothers Because it repairs waste, nourishes the frame, and is rich in the refreshing & stimu- lating properties natural to the finest Cocoa. The best for Family use Because it has the highest nutritive value, and being more soluble and digestible, you can get out of it more strength and nourish- ment than out of any other. 7 he Lancet says It yields a maximum proportion of the valuable food constituents easy of "assimilation and digestion."

NORLEY. ENGAGEMENT OF MR. ERNEST LASCELLES.— The marriage arranged between Ernest, son of Colonel W. R. Lascelles, of Norley. and Flora, daughter of the late Mr. John Bulteel, of Pamflete, will take place in January.

ELTON. ENTERTAINMENT. An entertainment was given at the Agricultural Hall, Elton, on Saturday, by the Ethiopian Minstrels, of Liverpool. The hall was well filled, some four hundred tickets having been sold.

THORNTON-LE-MO ORS. TH. LATE MRS. LLOYD.—The funeral of Margaret, wife of Mr. George Lloyd, of Elton, took place at Thornton Church on Tuesday afternoon. There was a large attendance of relatives and friends. The service was read by the rector, the Rev. C. C. Prichard, M.A., and the lesson by the Rev. E. Charley, vicar of Ince. The choir sang the favourite hymn Rock of Ages,' with true feeling and reverence, and the organist (Mr. C. Ward), played the Dead March,' in Saul, as the funeral procession left the church. There were many testimonies of respect to the memory of the deceased, who had spent an active life in Elton, and had proved herself a good friend to many.

SAUGHALL. WORKINGMEN'S CLUB.—The committee of the Workingmen's Club have decided to provide additional means of recreation, with a view of making the clubroom more attractive. Their latest purchase, a 'billiard-bagatelle' table, which arrived this week, will no doubt be well patronised. A gymnasium will probably follow in due time. The club owes much of its success to the indefatigable efforts of the committee in general, and of the secretary, Mr. John Dutton, in particular. FORESTRY.—Captain Feilden, of the Scots Greys, owner of the Mollington estates, has forwarded a donation of JE1 Is. to the funds of the Court Sellars Ancient Order of Foresters. The Court now has upwards of twenty honorary members. Arrangements are being carried out with a view of joining the Chester district, and of again becoming directly connected with the order, from which Court Sellars was suspended some nine years ago by the High Court.

NESTON. DEATH OF MR. JOSEPH CADRT, C.E.—Mr. Joseph Cabry, son of the late Mr. Joseph Cabry, of Ness, a member of the oldest and best-known families in the Neston district, died at Newcastle on Friday. The deceased was well known to a large circle of Neston and received his early education as a boy at the once famous, but long since defunct, Jones's School at Moorside. The deceased gentleman in his youth served his time as an engineer under his uncle, Mr. Cabry, chief engineer of the York and North Midland Company. Afterwards he was appointed engineer for the Midland and n Great Western Railway Company, Ireland. In the course of time he obtained the appoint- ment of engineer and manager of the Blyth and Tyne Railway, and when this line was taken over by the North Eastern Railway Com- pany Mr. Cabry still remained in that capacity until 1883, when he was given the still more important position of engineer at the central division of the main line of the company. Between five and six years ago he retired. He was about 65 years of age, and leaves a widow, but no family, his only daughter predeceasing him some years ago. The Interment- took place at Jesmond Old Cemetery on Tuesday after- noon.

I MALPAS. CONFIRMATION.—On Friday the Lord Bishop of the Diocese held a confirmation service at the parish church. There were 165 candidates, 70 being presented from Malpas, and the remainder from Tilston (of which there were 40), Tattenhall, Burwardsley, Tushingham, Farndon, Cholmondeley, and Harthill. The clergy present included the Rev. and Hon. A. R. Parker, and the Revs. F. E. B. Wale (Malpas), Morris Jones (Tilston), L. E. Owen (Farndon), C. L. Arnold (Tattenhall), J. D. Scott (Cholmondeley), Ll. B. Vawdrey (Tushing- ham), W. Lutener (Harthill), F. R. Wansbrough (Burwardsley), and Canon Royds (Coddington). The clergy, after robing at the rectory, pre- ceded the bishop to the west door, where they were joined by the choir, the Rev. C. S. Arnold carrying the pastoral staff. The church was filled to overflowing. The opening exhortation of the service was read by the rector, while the address before the 'laying on of hands' was delivered by the Rev. Canon Royds, and the address after it by the Bishop. ANNUAL MEETING OF THE BIBLE SOCIETY.— On Monday the annual meeting of the Malpas Auxiliary of the British and Foreign Bible Society was held in the Jubilee Hall, under the presidency of Mr. S. H. Sandbach. There was a fair attendance, and during the evening, the deputation, the Rev. W. Monk Jones, gave an interesting account of the present work of the Bible Society both at home and abroad. Short addresses were also given by the rector (the Rev. the Hon. A. R. Parker), the Rev. F. E. B. Wale, and the Rev. Agmore Morgans, and Mr. T. Huxley. The collection taken amounted to R2 lis. 6d., being an increase upon the amout of last year. The full statement for the year, the Rector explained, was incomplete, owing to the special services not having yet taken place at the parish church, but so far as they went, it was stated that the total amount was more than was realized last year. The committee were re-elected, as well as the president, Mr. Sandbacb, and the vice-presi- dents, Mr. R. Howard, Mr. R. L. Greenshields, and Mr. T. Huxley.—Cordial votes of thanks were tendered to the deputation, to the chair- man, and to the collectors, namely, Mrs. Danily, Miss E. Bevin, Miss M. Huxley, Miss Stevenson, Hampton Miss R. Williams, Miss Cooper, and Miss Huxley, Cuddington.

HELSBY. ACCIDENT TO A Y OUTH.-On Wednesday a youth named Frederick Ellams, residing at Frodsham Bridge, an employe of the Telegraph Manufacturing Company, while playing foot- ball during the dinner hour, on some land adjoining the company's works, fell and severely sprained one of his legs. He was rendered first aid by members of the ambulance corps con- nected with the works, and afterwards taken home. His leg on being examined by a doctor was found to be broken. EVENING CLASSEs.-The evening classes pro- motedbythe Literary and Scientific Society, and being held in commercial arithmetic, geometry and drawing, conducted by Mr. R. W. Hill, electricity and magnetism by Mr. J. Henley, shorthand by Mr. H. Knight, and ambulance by Dr. Briant, are now in full swing, and, by the increased attendance at each class, are evidently much more appreciated than they were last year. In addition to the above a dressmaking class was commenced on Monday, conducted by Miss Harrison, which made a successful debut. WATER SUPPLY.-The Helsby and District Water Company's reservoir, in course of con- struction on the south side of the hill, is at present being cemented SLTln i. "a o -J VA^/OVKOU W UO complete and ready for use about Christmas. The small temporary pipes connecting the pump with the main have been replaced by the per- manent ones of a larger size, and the company are about to place four hydrants at different points along the County Council's road, which will be used in case of fire, and for the purpose of watering the road. A sample of the water is being submitted monthly to the county analyst (Mr. Carter Bell) for analysis, whose report of the last sample sent shews the water to be not only free from impurities but of an excellent quality.

CONVINCING PROOF OF THE EFFICACY OF HOMOCEA, Which touches the Spot and Soothes the Aching part. HOMOCEA IN SCALDS AND BURNS. Mr. H. Massey. Manufacturing- Confectioner, 56, London-road, Liverpool, December 16. 1S95, says that in dozens of cases among his employes of severe scalds and Burns HOMOCEA has bad a most marvellous effect. In a few hours all traces almost gone. HOMOCEA CURES RINGWORM. Mr. S. E. Jovee, of 17, Nelson-street. Commercial-road, London, says HOMOCEA cured him of Ring-worm he con- tracted through being shaved at a barber's. The cure was thorough and speedy. HOMOCEA CUBES SORE THROAT. Therese Polonaski, 38, Warwick-road, Earl's Court, S W., "Bythe advice of a friend I tried HGMOCEA for a Sore ihroat. I rubbed my neck with it last night, and to-day all pain has disappeared HOMOCEA CURES BURNS, CUTS, BRUISES, &c. L. Johnson, Esq 54. St. Mary's Grove, Richmond. Surrey, says :—" In all cases of Burns, Cuts, Bruises, Earache, Rheumatism, &c., I have found HOMOCEA to give immediate relief. Should there be any doubtful person, if they will write me, I will phew them plenty cif evidence of the valuable properties of HOMOCEA and Homocea Embrocation (forme, ly i.x-iino). Homocea is sold by all dealers at Is. lid and 2s. 9d. per box. N.B.—HOMOCEA EMBROCATION is the strong form of Homocea, and is absolutely the best thing of .1 9 its kind in the world. Put up in collapsible tubes. Price 7id. and Is. ld. per tube. Sold by CHEERS & HOPLEY, Chemists, Ncrthgnte-st', Chester; GEO. DENSON & Co., The Stores, Northgate Eow, Chester. 4

LIFEBOAT RESCUES.—From the November number of the Quarterly Life-boatvournal to band, it appears that the Royal National Life- boat Institution has now 296 life-boats under its charge, and during the past year it granted rewards for saving 461 lives from shipwrecks oiL our coasts.

BUCKLEY. VOLUNTEER CHURCH PARADE.—On Sunday morning the members of the 1st Flint Royal Engineer Volunteers paraded at headquarters, Mill-lane, for divine service at St. Matthew's Church. This was the last uniform parade of the drill season. Owing to the death of H.S.H. the Duchess of Teck the band did not play, but fell in the ranks. The Rev. W. H. Bowers, vicar of Gillingham, Kent, preached a splendid sermon, ihe Rev. Harry Drew, vicar, intoned the service, and the Rev. W. Parry de Winton Kitcat, curate, intoned the litany. The preacher, in his sermon, made a touching allu- sion to the Duchess of Teck, and at the close of the service the congregation all stood up while the organist (Mrs. Hughes) played the Dead March' in Saul. The officers present on parade were Major Gibson (in command) and Lieutenants R. Cecil Davies and R. M. Gibson. AN ANCIENT CUSTOM,—On Tuesday evening the annnal Court Leet and Court Baron in view of Frank Pledge of the manor of Ewloe was held at the Hope and Anchor Inn, before Mr. W. H. Churton (Chester), steward of the manor. Mr. Churton called the roll of the jury, wko were sworn in as follows:—Messrs. J. M. Gibson, Thomas Jones (Clayton House), John Dunn, Peter Reynolds, Charles Gerrard (fore- man), the Rev. H. Drew, John Williams, John Taylor, Henry Hayes, Jonathan Catherall, Edward Jones, Isaac Powell, Thomas Taylor, John Hughes, Samuel Dunn, Thomas Williams, and Joseph Catherall (Little Brook Farm). Burleymen were elected as follows .—Messrs. Charles Gerrard and Samuel Dunn (Ewloe Wood); John Dunn and Peter Reynolds (Ewloe Town); and Thomas Taylor (for Aston and Lower Ewloe). Several persons appeared before the jury with various presentments, which are in the jurisdiction of that body. At the dinner which followed Mr. Churton was chairman, and Mr. A. B. Roberts (under agent) occcupied the vice-chair. The toasts included 'The Lord of the Manor' (Mr. P. B. Davies-Cooke, Gwysaney, Mold).' The Steward of the Manor,' I The Vice Chairman,' The Foreman of the Jury,' and The Bailiff of the Manor' (Mr. Charles Robins).