Pontypool Free Press and Herald of the Hills

REPRESENTATION OF NORTH MONMOUTHSHIRE. MR HUME WILLIAMS'S CANDIDATURE. BLAENAVON. A public meeting was held at the Town Hfttl J t>n Wednesday evening, the 24th ult., which was addressed by the Conservative candidate, Mr Hume Williams. Mr R. W. Kennard presided, and was supported by the candidate, Mr Hallowes, Mr W. G. Dowden, Mr E. Jones, (Sna:chwood), Mr I. Butler (Panteg), Mr I. Gardner (Abergavenny), Major Pennymore, Mr W. Lewis, &e. Several ladies also graced the platform, including Mrs R. W. Kennard, Mrs Hume Williams, Mrs Pennymore. Mrs Lieww. Miss Fulberton, and Miss F. Richards. The room was well filled, and as there was a greaf number of Radicals present the meeting promised to be somewhat lively. The Chairman on rising was received with app^use, and said he would not detain them len £ as Mr Hume Williams would better inform ent than he could of the political questions of the ■ iay. He hopod they woold give him a fair heaii g, andat the end Mr Williams would be pleas- d to answer any questions that might be put o him. The Chairman then introduced the cam date to them, and called upon him to give his a idress. Mr Williams, who was favourably received, said .r it gave hint' great pleasure and satisfaction to Vmeet them c to face, because when he started his candidature he was informed that he might get fairly well iu the agricultural districts but vouid have a warm time of it when he got amo-g the hills. (Laughter.) He had at last reached the hills, and although many might not agre" with his remarks, he hoped they would remain good friends iff the end. (Hear, hear.) He proposed to deal with four topics of nterest, viz., the Home Rule Ques- tion, the Suspensory Bill, Local Veto Bill, and, above all, the labour question, which, in his opii .on, went to the root of all politics. They all probably knew that the present Government owti. its present majority entirely to the Irish Tot*, as putting die Nationalists on one side, there were really; 18 majority against the Home Huh- Ðitl ia tfie House of Commons. In 1885 they were told by the Radical authorities that Ireiiirid could not be governed without Home Ruj.. and they said the same in 1886. The Unionist party said it could be so governed, and the result of their six years' rule fully bore out that plea. In 1886 Ireland was in a very bad stat>: when the Unionists went into power. As rarian crimes numbered in 1881 4,439, and in 1891 they were reduced to 3,772. In 1882 the number of people who would not pay their ren. was 5.201, and in 1891 they numbered only 799. Deposits in the savings banks in Ireland, which was a great criterion of the prosperity of the people, were in 1886, £ 2.700,300, and in 1891 the) had increased to X3,713,000, and these facts could not be denied. The number of emigrants had also decreased about 16 per cent. during the government of Lord Salisbury. lie. would now call their attention to one or two clauses in the Home Rule Bill. First of all they, as English, Scotch, and Welshmen, were to give them a Parliament of their own, and also to pay them £ 500,000 a year, which certainly was not fair. Out of the five millions of inhabitants in Ireland, two millions lived in the North, and the greater number of those two millions were Protestants and Nonconformists. There was no doubt about their views on Home Rule. There were 990 ministers of Nonconformist churches in Ireland, and they sent in a petition to the English statesmen against Home Rule and out of that number 864 signed the petition, 8 declared themselves Home Rulers, and the remainder declared themselves in favour of the petition, but did not care to take any active part m the matter. (t was framed in very strong language, and very much to the point, and he would read them a few extracts from it. £ Mr Williams then read from the petition.] Con- tinuing, he said The Protestants i* Ireland firmly believed, as the Unionists did, that Home Rule meant separation from England. The Irish plainly said so. Mr Parnell stated that wherever they might be they WI. aId never rest satisfied until they had destroyed the last link that bound England to Ireland." (A. good bit of shouting took place at this point, and some 2iroar endued, bat order was soon restored, and r Williams continued.) This did not look like a union of hearts that Mr Gladstone had so often quoted. The views of Mr Spurgeon he was sure they would all respect, whether they agreed with him or not. Mr Spurgeon strongly condemned the Home Rule Bill, and said it was a wrong on the Ulster brethren, who should not be cast off and deserted. Ulster said she would not have it, and what would they do if a Parlia- ment was established in Dublin—compel her ? "W«a^th<uce a man who would dare give such an order as to foree Ulster at the Dayonet's point to accept Home Knle, simply because she was loyal to and conntry t This mad scheme would mean trade going from Ireland, and Irishmen would consequently have to come over to England and enter the already overstocked market here. and so further tend to reduce their wages. (Laughter.) With regard to the Local Veto Bill, he never read a more extraordinary production. It was a Bill to enable two-thirds of a district to close any public-housfe within their radius, and so Iruukenress, which oi course they all deplored. The effect would be that probably one parish could close a dozen public-houses, and perhaps the next parish would not get their majority, and their public-houses would then remain open. (A Voice Will Dot the people have the power in their own hands V) Mr Williams said he would willingly answer any question at the close, and begged of them not to interrupt him. The Government proposed to do away with public- houses without giving any compensation to the owners, which seemed very unfair. If they took a shop they paid for the goodwill, and in a public-house the same thing happened, so if a man paid £1,000 for the goodwill, at the end of three years the Government proposed to turn him out, and he would lose his money. At least they should pay him the price he paid for it. (Hear, hear.) He would now pass from that to the Welsh Suspensory Bill. (Applause.) There was evidently some little misapprehension with regard to that matter. Many people thought that the Church derived a good deal of its funds from the State, which was entirely erroneous, as everything which the Church re- ceived, whether from tithes orotherwise, had been bequeathed to her, and they had no more right to take her endowments than to meddle with pri- vate property. The Nonconformists had very substantial endowments, and the Roman Catholics too, so if they took the Church's pro- perty, why not take the Nonconformists as well ? What was sauce for the goose was sauce for the gander—that was only a logical con- clusion. If they took property away, where would they stop? what was to prevent their taking the endowments of hospitals and other charitable institutions ? They had no right to take away property that did not belong to them. (hear,hear,and interruption).Now with reference to the labour questions, which he (the speaker) considered the most important of all, these -would no doubt be the great questions in a few years that would divide them, and he would tell them why. In a factory employing lOOt men the employer would only have say 2 or 3 votes, and the workmen would have the rest. The power that had been invested in the working classes was enormous, and they would have to be careful thay did not abuse that power and go too far. In every article that was produced two thing^were required, viz, capital and labour, and if these two were at war with each other they eoald not live. The only possible result wcrol«3 be that* trade would be driven from the country. Strikes were most disastrous to both parties, 86 peeple with money would not invest it in a place where strikes were taking place and confidence was shaken. Let them not mis- understand him. Both sides should have equal justice, and be believed, apart from politics, that instead of fighting-each other, eapital and labour should combine. Lord Salisbury's Government appointed a commission to enquire into the question, but how coald any bill be brought in to 4Seal with the matter while that eternal Home Rule Bill was continually before them ? Surely there were plenty of English questions to be solved. They should toy to get boards of concilia- tion and arbitration, to settle the labour disputes between them. There were two bills waiting to be dealt with which had. been brought in by Conservatives, one of which was the outdoor Provident Relief Rill, avd the object was to enable Guardians of the Poor to give outdoor relief to those who were disabled by sickness for a time. This measure, he considered, was much more imporant to them than the Irish Home Rule Bill. It was a crying jshame that a man who had lived a good and homest life should be compelled, when poverty or sickness overtook him, to go into the workhouse, (Hear, hear.) The other bill he referred to wag The old age pensions bill." The agricultural labourer, who only earned about 12s. a week, could not possibly save, and when old age came upoir him he had nothing but the workhouse before him, and it was a shame to them as Englishmen that it should be so. Mr (;ham berlain-(hi,,vo)-bad written a great deal about the scheme, which would be of great benefit to the labouring classes. The Gladstonians could not get rid of the Irish Bill, so if they put a Government in power that could rule Ireland wisely and well without Home Rule there would be a chance of some j useful legislation for the rest of the country. i ► He hoped, if they did not all agree with him, < • t they were still good friends, and that. it < would not be the last tone he would have the i pleasure of seeing them and perhaps being 1 looted. (Laoghtep awfrfcpplause.) The Chairman afeked if anyone wished to put my questions. A member of the audience then asked Mr Williams the date of Mr Spurgeon's letter from which be read an extract. r J Mr Williams: About months before he. died, I believe. The questioner said that Mr Spurgeon wrote another letter subsequently, in which he stated that Home Rule, he believed, would bring suc- cess and prosperity to Ireland. Mr Williams was therefore only giving, one view, and, if lul was in the wrong, should apologise. Mr Williams: I should be glad to have the date of that letter. The questioner said he "éould not g1Te the exact date—(laughter)—but Mr W illiains should prove his statement that the letter he read was written six months before his death. Mr Williams I simply eu.t1. extract trom a newspaper. I have not tbe ppór but çqll get it, and will send the dato niy int-nu here. Another question -jras askea Mr Williams about the petition signed-»by Nonconformist ministers in Ireland—why he did not refer to the Unitarians, who had got up a petition in favour of the Home Rule Bill. Mr Williams said he knew nothing of the Uni- tanans but the 864 ministers who signed the petition consisted of Presbyterians, Episcopa- liaae, Methodists, Baptists, and the Society of Friends in Ireland. (A Voice: Who excited the men of Ulster against Home Rule bnvt-he Con- servatives, Lord Randolph Churchiil and others ?) A question was asked about the Veto Bill. and whether the majority should not rule tiv; minority. Mr Williams said it would act tyrannically in some instances and it was not fair to prevent a poor man getting his glass of beer. when the rich man was allowed to do what he liked at his club. Mr G. Bartlett I wish to ask Mr Williams why lie only quoted Mr Spurgeon, and why he did not refer to other eminent men, such as the Rev Hugh Price Hughes, Dr Clifford, and, I think, Dr McClellan, who were strong advocates of Home Rale for Ireland? How can he say "Nonconformist ministers," when there is no church in Ireland by law established ? Mr Williams Perhaps" Nonconformists of Ireland" was scarcely the conect term to use, but what I meant was, the Protestanis there of the different sects I have already mentioned With regard to the gentlemen mentioned by my Iriend, I, of course, named Mr Spurgeon, as he took the same view of this question as we do. One or two more questions were asked and ANSWERED Major Pennymore then proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the chairman for presiding. Mr G. Bartlett, from the body of the hall, said he rose with much pleasure to second that vote of thanks. Mr Kennard had given them every chance to ask as many questions'^ they liked, and had allowed every fairplay. He did not wish the Conservatives to accuse them of disturbing their meeting, and they had done their beet to preserve order during the proceed- ¥he Chairman thanked them very muph for the vote of thanks. It was a great thinz that they could meet and agree to differ and be good friends when the meeting was over. Hp Was sure they would say they had heard a "very able speech from Mr Williams, and he hoped they would all carefully digest it. His father (Mr H. J. Kennard) had written saying how sorry he was he could not attend the meetings views were still the same, and they knew those were. (Laughter.) Well, his own (te speaker's) were the same. He hoped Mt Wil- liams would always have a fair hearing in Blaeo-, avon, and concluded by heartily thanking them again for the vote of thanks. (Applause.) The meeting then terminated with the singing of the National Anthem.

ABERSYCHAN. 1' Mr W. E. lume Williams addressed a meeting at tke Board Schools, Abersychan, on Thursday eveningweek. The room was about three parts filled, and although the audience included repre- sentatives of both political parties, the meeting was throughout of a harmonious character. Mr E. Jones, J.P., Snatchwood House, presided, and supporting him on the platform were Mr Hume Williams, Messrs L. Llewelyn, J.P„ W. H. Davies, and Iltyd Gardner (Abergavenny). The Chairman briefly introduced Mr Hume Williams to the audience, and the candidate, who was received with applause, proceeded to deal with Home Rule, the Welsh Suspensory Bill, Local Veto, and the labour questions. He said they were told that Ireland blocked the the way,* but did Ireland block the way when Lord Salisbury's Government was in power? j (Applause). He ventured to think not, and more than that he believed that the accession of I the Conservacivc frarty to power agauu would mean the restoration cf tranquility j and prosperity to heland. The majority of the education and the industry, not to j mention the wealth, of Ireland, was opposed to Home Rule. (Hear, hear.) Of the whole of the Nonconformist ministers in Ireland, 990 in number, 864 had signed a petition against Home Rule. He could not understand why the Non- conformists of England and Wales ignored such a petition, and supported a measure which was so thoroughly condemned by their brothers in Ireland. (Applause.) As to the Welsh Sus- pensory Bill, he could not for one moment understand how any honest Nonconformist could support such a measure. He ventured to warn them that they were treading on dangerous ground. If the Church was to be despoiled of her property, would Nonconformists be safe? (Hear, hear.) If they adopted such a system of spoliation, where was it to end? Temperance reformers nowadays were very energetic, and although he sympathised with them in their motive, yet he could not agree that their legis- lative proposals were likely to reform ex eSSl ve drinkers, or improve the present condition of licensed houses. (Hear, hear.) Local Veto he regarded as one of the most eccentric measures ever introduced into Parliament, and he could not help but suspecting that this and the Welsh Suspensory Bill were merely catch-vote Eaea" sures. The labour questions he regarded as of paramount importance. To his mind, the British House of Commois might be far better employed in giving their serious attention to the question of capital and labour, than in taking up the time of the members morning, noon, and night, with the eternal Irish question. (Applause.) He strongly deprecated the action of paid agitators m trying to inflame labour against capital. (Hear, hear.) It was necessary for the country that we should have good trade, and the only way to render that possible was by a proper combination of labour and capital, rather than the setting of one against the other. (Applause). On the motion of Mr Llewellyn, seconded by Mr W. H Davie*, a hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the Chairman for presiding.

GRIFFITHSTOWN. A meeting in support of the candidature of Mr Hume Williams, the selected candidate in the Conservative and Unionist interest for the next election in North Monmouthshire, was held at the Drill Hall, Griffithstown, on Friday even- ing last. The chair was occupied by Mr I. Butler, J.P., who was supported by Messrs A. A. Williams, J.P.. F. W. Rafarel, J.P., Iltyd Gardener, &c., and &c. There was a moderate attendance. The Chairman, in opening the meeting, regretted that it had not been more extensively advertised, through an oversight, which no doubt accounted for the smallness of the gathering. The Conservative and Unionist candidate was to address them that evening, and he (the chair- man) felt sure they could not do better than support him if they wished to assist the party of peace and prosperity, as well as peace and honour. (Applause.) Mr Hume Williams, who on rising was cordially received, said this was the fourth meet- ing he had addressed in the district, and in every case, although he knew there were many of his political opponents in the audience, he had been accorded a thoroughly fair and patient hearing. (Hear, hear.) In delivering a political address, one was bound, however much he disliked it, to refer to Home Rule. It was upon the question of Home Rule that the present Government was returned to power, and although they might be, and no doubt were, heartily sick and tired of the agitation, they could not pass the question over in silence, especially when so much missappre- hension existed in the minds of the British public. They were told that Ireland could not be governed without Home Rule. Well, at all events, Lord Salisbury's Government thought differently, and what was more, under- took to govern Ireland without Home Rule. (Applause.) From 1886 to 1892 was no doubt a Period of revelation to those men who pre- dicted that Home Rule was bound to come, if the country was to prosper. Home Rule had notcome—(applause)—and no man could deny that when Lord Salisbury le ft office the state of Ireland in all respects was infinitely superior to at when he went into office. (Applause.) Now, with the accession of Air Gladstone to I )mce there were not wanting signs of a weak md vapid. Government, and the consequent ruthless methods of agitating b) T unscrupulous I nen. (Hear, hear.) Anyone speaking in that Mit of the country would be expected to touch ipon the Welsh Suspensory Bill. j3e failed to tee the justifiability of such a measure. The t Midowraents of the Church weee: her own, as 1 much her own as the Nonconformists' endow- ments belonged to them. They had no more] right to rob the Church than to rob Noncon- < formity or .anything else. (Applause.) He quite hoped and believed that there were many honest < Nonconformists who would strive with them in ] opposing the introduction of -such a system of spoliation. (Hear, bear.) The Local Veto Bill be regarded as an extraordinary example of what I some legislators could do. A more impracticable measure he had never come in contact with. (Hear, hear.) The id"a of one parish being freed trom iicensed hocses, and another a hundred yardb away in the full possession of its biisy drinking saloons, was preposterous. 1 He was quite as much opposed to I excessive drinkins as any temperance re- former, but he did not believe they could make a man sober by ACt of Parliament, and he never would consent to interfere with the liberty I' of the subject. (Applause.) The question of capital and labour was the question of the age, and he thought the House of Commons mIght be far better employed in trying to solve the labour problems, than) n disciissii.g the Home Rule- scheme. (Hear, hear.) So long as paid agitators went stumping about the country trying to set. the men against their employers, so long woald the question be unsettled. It was high time that some measure was adopted for the preservation of our trade. Strikes, trade dis- putes, and similar agitations were gradually driving capitiU to foreign ports. It was useless to talk about labour without capital, or vice versa. It was necessary to have both, and it was also necessary tuat "both should work together in harmony, ii the trade of the country was to be preserved and increased. (Applause.) He thought that boards of arbitration should be ap- pointed for considering and deciding disputes as between labour and capital. The presentmethod of settling them was certainly unsatisfactory, and until the p .opie were taught that the best way to settle dispui.es was by conciliatory means, or drastic measures, it would be likely to remain unsatisfactory. (Applause.) A vote of thanks having been accorded to the chairman, the meeting was brought to acloBe.

PONTYPOOL. On Saturday evening Mr Hume Williams ad- dressed a meeting in support oi his candidature at. the Hall, Pontypool, and met with a good reception. There; was a very good attendance, includiuga considerable representation ot the other side." Mr A. A. Williams, J.P., wuo presided, was supported by the candidate, Coi. Hair, Dr Wood, Mr E. Jones, J.P., Mr I. Butler, J.P., Mr L. Llewelyn, J.P., Mr W. H. Davits, Mr T. Watkins, Mr I. Gard- ner, Abergavenny, tic. The Cnairmau, in commencing the proceedings, Said lie did not think that upon that occasion they wouid expect anything like a lengthy address from him. He had hoped that a larger number would have been present. His first duty was to thank them for being present to hear an address, from a gentleman whom he would shortly intro- duce to them, on the subject of his candidature for North Monmoiithshire. (Applause.) There were so many interesting subjects before the country at the present time tuat it was rather difficult to select the topics for treatment, but he had no doubt they would be able, from what they would hear that evening, to gather the sense of the situation before tnem. He thought it was hardly neaessary for him to say more in introducing the gentleman who had been selected as the (Conservative Candidate for North Mon- mouthshire, Mr Hume Williams. (Applause.) Some of them had heard him before, and had been very much pleased with his addresses. At tho conclusion of the address any who might de- sire it would have the opportunity of putting questions on the subjects spoken of. (Cheers.) Mr Hume Williams, who was received with applause, said that that was the sixth or seventh noting he had addressed in that constituency within practically the last week, and he was glad to say that every meeting he had held had been entirely an open meeting. He had been lIaryglad to see in each of the meetings not only a considerable number of those who agreed with him in their political opinions but a considerable number of those who did not-; and whatever th&outcome of the contest might be upon which he had, as some people thought, unnecessarily eng^gyd—(cheets^Pr-he was sure they would, at the end of his candidature, lead him to believe that he bad never, bee* before (because he had spoken at many meetings in difEeient parts of England) fairer audiences than he had met in North Monmouthshire. (Applause.) Whatever their political opinions might be, be was sure they were^ill united in this—they had an hottest desire to understand the questions which affected the country at the present time, and he thought, in order to thoroughly understand them, it was WftU fiooidttines to go and hear their political opponents as well as their political friends, (Cheers.) Proceeding with his address, the speaker j dealt with the questions of labour, the Welsh 4 Suspensory Bill, the Xocal "Vet*> Bi'T, and tisfc j Home lfule Bill (the addfew? being reported in j another column). The speaker was subjected to a little interuption occasionally, but on the whole ljaq| a^ery good hearing, and at the close Was warmly applauded. | The Chairman having invited questions, a gen- tletuah apparently under the influence ef some- thing stronger than a non-intoxicating beverage went to the platform, and in an incoherent man- ner intimated his desire to put a question to the speaker "aboijt the Board of Guardians." What it was he desired to ask relative to the Board of Guardians did not transpire, as he was persuaded to leave the platform without further airing his eloquence. Mr 8, Fisher next said I should like to ask the speaker this question, Why the Conservative party respects the wished of the Nonconformists of Ireland and disrespects the wishes of theNon- conformists of Wales with regard to disestablish- ment ? (Cheers.)—Mr Williams said he was not as yet the spokesman of the Conservative party or a member of the House of Commons. The distinction, at the same time* was a broad one, because the Nonconformists of Ireland desired to. Preserve their lives and property and inte- gntyof the empire, whilst the Nonconformists of that part of the world had a desire which some Dught agree to and some might not, but which was certainly not an Imperial one in any sense. Mr G. Churchill asked the speaker if he could name any particular foreign country that had benefited by the Hull strike, and in what way.— Mr Williams said he could not specify any parti- cular foreign country, but during the time the strike was on and the port was closed, the trade went abroad. He might say that he had not long ago a conversation with a gentleman respecting the dockers' strike in London three years ago, and he was told that even now the trade in Lon- don was affected by that strike. He asked his friend where he thought the trade had gone, and he was told to Hamburg, that he was doubtful as to whether it would ever come back, and that the whole of it certainly would not. Mr Churchill asked the speaker what remedy he would suggest for bringing about a better feeling between capital and labour.—Mr Wil- liams said he would advocate Boards of Arbitra- tion with the sanction of the State, which Boards should be able, if called upon to decide any question between the embloyers and em- ployed, to do so in 24 hours, their decisions to be absolutely binding equally upon both parties. (Cheers.) Mr Churchill said he thought he should be answered in that way, and had written down another question arising from that answer—WaiT not Mr Williams aware that the present Govern- ment had stated they would do something in the direction indicated. (Cheers.)—Mr Williams said he had never seen any such statement, and was not aware of its existence. If he had a choice, he would rather see the Act of Parlia- ment than the statement referred to. (Cheers.) Mr Churchill: Would you vote for an Eight Hours' Bill if you were returned? (Cries of Ne, no.") Mr Churchill: Mr Williams will answer the question.—Mr Williams said that as to a general Eight Hours' Bill, he did not think it would be just.—Mr Churchill For miners?— Mr Williams If such a Bill were brought for- ward, I would not vote against it, but 1 do not feel myself called upon to form an opinion until the miners themselves have made up their own minds. (Cheers.) I don't desire to give that in any sense as a dodgy answer. I hope you don't take it so. It is my honest belief. The miners of Northumberland and Durham are strongly opposed to it. ("And Glsftnorganshire.") Of the English miners, only a part are in favour of it. As soon as they have made up their own minds and are fairly unanimous on the subject, I would do what they desired me to do. (Cheers.) Mr. W. H. Hughes I have a question or two to ask, which I hope you will allow me to put to the caildidate. You will allow me to say how pleased I am to see him here to-night and to say whatever the issue of the fight may be, whether your side or our side wins, that the fight will be conducted in the same spirit as Mr Williams has manifested here to night. (Cheers.) I wish to ask Mr Williams if he is not aware that Mr Mundella has brought in a bill for the establish- ment of Boards of Arbitration ?—I am not. If it has it has received no consideration from the House of Commons up to the present time. Mr. Hughes I beg you pardon. It has been read a first time.—Mr, Williams lam not aware of it, but I'll take it from you. Mr Hughes Would you support such a Bill if brought forward by Mr Mundella?—Certainly; I would support it if brought forward by any- body. (Cheers.) Please 80Jft presume that if I was returned I should go to the House of Commons iJtfied hand and foot to any particular party. I$feould vote for the things I honestly iesired to lee passed. (Applause.) Mr B uglles: Would the candidate support a jompulsory measure or one that would be merely permissive ?—I have not thought it over, but my own idea would be that to be effective at aU it must, be compulsory. I don't see how you zould benefit by a Board of Arbitration unless you enforced its awards. Mr Hughes As to the import of iron and steel, referred to by you in your address, do you think it is because of the labour disputes in this country entirley. or do you think that it is be- cause of the absence of royalties in foreign countries and their presence here ?—That ques- tion has been inquired into under a Bill brought in by the Conservatives. The reason for these manufactures being cheaper is because labour is cheaper in France, and in Belgium also the workmen work for longer hours. Mr Hughes The difference in the royalties is 6d in those countries and 5s 6d here. On the question of immigration, what measure would you propose or support with regard to this matter ? Would you support a measure of re- striction ?—I would, certainly. I would oppose pauper immigration in this country, at any rate, in the present state of trade. (Cheers.) Mr Hughes: Would you include in your designation pauper," ladies and gentlemen ? I suppose I must call them who *come into this country from abroad, and live upon our backs. VIZ., German Princes and Princesses? (Cheers and laughter.)—Mr Williams: A pauper is a pauper. I can't discuss a question of that sort with you. I'm extremely obliged to you for the courtesy with which you have put the question. All I have to say is, if the members of the Royal Family wish to ally themselves with Germans or anybody else, it is our duty to help them. (Loud applause.) Mr Hughes Can the candidate name a single Conservative who, prior to the year in which free education was passed, publicly advocated such a measure ? (Cheers.)—'I'm not exactly a walking encyclopaedia. (Laughter.) I can't carry all these things in my head but as it was passed by the Conservative Government then in power, I think you may take it that the Conser- vatives advocated it. (Cheers.) Mr Hughes put several other questions, which were replied to. The Chairman then said the questioner had been allowed considerable latitude, and would only have one other opportunity. Mr Hughus I am sorry to say I have a great many more questions. (Laughter.) The Chairman As chairman, I must consider the majority. (Cheers.) Mr Hume Williams Let it be a regular poser, Mr Hughes. (Laughter.) Mr Hughes You will allow me perhaps to say that I think it will be a difficult matter to put a poser to you. Would you support a measure for imposing a graduated income-tax ?—Mr Wil- liams Most certainly. It is one of the things I had down to speak upon this evening. I am very glad yeu put that poser to me. (Laughter.) It seems unfair to me that a man with JE500 a year should be taxed say 6d, the same as a man who is in receipt of £äO,OOO a year. It seems to me that all surplus incomes should be more heavily taxed. I would allow a man a certain proper income, but directly he got into what I would call a luxurious income it should be taxed, and taxed pretty heavily, so as to relieve some of the taxes of the poor. (Loud cheers.) Mr Beld: If the public-house exists for the benefit of the working man, why not give the working man power to say whether it shall exist or not ? (Cheers.) Mr Williams was under- stood to say that that was just what the Bill did not propose to do. Mr J. Curzon asked if the candidate would vote in favour of the Sunday Closing Bill. (Cheers.) — Mr Williams said that be did not thiak he would, but added that, with refer- ence to that and all other measures, a great deal would depend upon the terms of the Bill. It waa scarcely fair to ask a candidate a question of that kind until be had first seen the proposals on the subject. Mr Reid Are you in favour of parochial and district councils?—If I saw any strong desire for it, I would support it. Several questions having been put by Mr H. KeUf as to the part taken by Conservatives in legalising trade combinations, Mr D. Reid asked the candidate if he was in favour of testing the power with the people of a district for granting or refusing licenses for the sale of intoxicating drink.—Mr Williams said it would, depend entirely npon what the majority was in favour of the Bill. Mr Curzon Are you in favour of the measure of one man one vote If you join it with a measure for the re-distribution of seats, I have no objection te it otherwise, no. The Chairman I think I must call attention I to the fact that the gentleman who put that question was prompted by another who has already had his say. (Cheers.)/ I Mr G. C|hu^chill asked thff candidate if he believed"in;,tes £ ipeg a public meeting by putting a resolution at the end.—Mr Williams replied in the negative, He did not think that an employe sitting in the hall, with his employer on the I platform, should be asked to pledge himself to any views whatever. (Cheers.) Mr W. H. Hughes You'll allow a resolution, I suppose ? (Cries of No, no.") I move a vote of confidence in Mr Price. (Cheers.) Mr G. Morgan, in proposing a vote of thanks to the Chairman, said that, whether presiding over a social, political, or religious gathering the chairman always did so in the kindest and most straightforward manner possible. (Cheers.) Mr G. Churchill said they always got kindness from the chairman, no matter what position he occupied and he seconded the proposition with the greatest of pleasure. (Cheers.) Mr. W. H. Hughes, in supporting the proposi- tion, said he endorsed all that had been said as to the chairman's kindness and courtesy. (Hear, hear.) He might say further that he had had much greater fair play at that meeting than at the Church Defenee meeting in the Town School | a short time ago. The Rev J. Wilson put the resolution to the meeting, and it was carried unanimously. The Chairman having acknowledged the com- pliment, cheers were called on behalf of Mr T. P. Price, counter cheers for Mr Hume Williams terminating the proceedings.

THE ALLEGED ROBBERY AT RISCA. At Newport County Petty Sessions on Satur- day (before Messrs E. Lewis, C. W. Earle Marsh, and E. H. Watts, jun.) a domestic servant named Ann MARU Cotterell, aged 21, was charged on remand with stealing £ 16 from a bedroom at the house of her employer. Mr Thomas Yendell, printer and chemist, Risca, on Whit Monday evening. May 22. Mr W. Lyndon Moore appeared for the defence.—Mrs Yendell, wife of Thomas Yendell, stated that she went out of the house, accompanied by Miss Walker, Mr Yendell's aunt, about 6.20 p.m. on Whit Mon- day, and they were overtaken five minutes later by Mr Yendell. The prisoner was left in the house alone, and Mrs Yendell told her before leaving that if she went out she was to be care- ful to shut up the house and be back soon. When the mistress returned at eight o'clock she found the house shut up and the girl was out. Witness went in by the front door and soon afterwards prisoner unlocked the back door and entered the house. She (prisoner) asked leave to go out for about half an hour and was allowed. She1 did not return, however, till a quarter-past ten. In the meantime Mrs Yendell found that a small drawer of a chest of drawers in her bed- room had been forced open, and the money was missed from an unlocked cash-box inside. Miss Walker found that a drawer in her room had also. been opened and .£11 in gold gone. The police were then communicated with. Neither of the rooms had been ransacked.—Superinten- dent Bosanquet stated that at 9.30 on Monday evening he received information at Risca Police- station, and proceeded to the house. He found all the fastenings of the windows secured, and no appearance of any entry having been made from outside. About 10.30. when prisoner had returned to the house, witness asked her if during the time she had been left in charge of the house any one else had been in it. She said "No." She was given into custody by Mr Yendell, and witness searched the kitchen. On the top of the dresser he found JE15 in gold and 12s. in silver wrapped up in paper, and on the prisoner was found 9s. 8d. in a purse. When charged she said she was innocet.-Polic-con= stable Powell said as he was taking the prisoner to Usk Gaol on Tuesday on remand she remarked to him in the train It was a great responsibility to be left there alone. I put the money there for safety."—The Bench held that a case had been made out, and committed the prisoner for trial at the quarter sessions. Bail was allowed.

Tne Editor of the Medical Annual speaks in the highest terms of COCOA as a beverage and a food for invalids, on account of its absolute purity, high quality, and great solu- oility, and counsels the medical profession to remember, in recommending Cocoa, that the name on anypacket is guarantee of purity. A FAIB, BEAUTIFUL SKIU.—Sulpholme Soap gives the natural tint and peach-like bloom of a perfect Complexion; makes the Skin smooth sn^^e, healthy, comfortable. 6d Tablets. Every- where. ¡; & ■

AT THE SHEPHERDS A.M.C. AT WREXHAM. By the courtesy of the Editor, the undersigned (whobyfavoorof their brethren were appointed representatives of the Abergavenny and Blaen- avon districts respectively of the Loyal Order of Ancient Shepherds at the AM.C.—otherwise the Annual Movable Conference) are enabled to present some particulars relative to the late j annualu parliament" at Wrexham. At the out- set it may be stated that the various assemblages were highly successful, and that the accounts presented of the progress of the Order during the past year were for the most part eminently Satisfactory. The meetings in connection witn the A.M.C. commenced on Saturday evening, the ¡ 29th May, with a reception at the Wynnstay I Arms HoteL, by the Mayor and Corporation of Wrexham. The chief officers of the society were present, and appropriate addresses were delivered as to the important work in which the various friendly societies are engaged. On Sunday afternoon the delegates and members of local lodges assembled for Divine service at Wrexham Church, where a powerful and practical sermon was preached by the vicar, the Rev Canon Fletcher. Business proper commenced on Whit-Monday uioruiug at the St. James's Hall, under the pre- sidency of Bro. J. Allan, C.S. On the roll being callod by the general secretary (Bro. D.Kennedy) I it was found that 57 districts were represented by 107 delegates, 37 districts being unrepre- sented. Bro. J. Abbot, Leeds, having been ap- pointed minute secretary, the Chief Shepherd delivered his address, from which we make the following extract:— The past year of 1892 has been a year of severe trade depression and labour troubles in many centres of industry, which have retarded many districts from showing such advances as I am cer- tain, would, in other circumstances, have been shown. We are also still suffering from the last visit of that dread epidemic, influenza, which has left impaired the health of many of our members, and, consequently, been a heavy strain on the funds of our lodges and districts. Notwithstanding that and circumstances of a similar bearing, we have come out of the ordeal very satisfactorily, our financial gain amounting to over £ 20,000. I am iri the happy position to be able to say that 32 new lodes have been opened since our last annual meeting at Leeds, and I have much pleasure in Publicly thanking the various districts in which the increase has been effected for the energy and enterprise they have shown. We have during the year added 3,789 members to the roll. The third valuation has been in your hands for some time, and, I hope, has had your careful perusal. It con- tains much valuable advice to those districts whose financial position is not such as we might perhaps yish, and l trust mueh of that advice will be care- fully considered. I wish with all my heart to see every lodge and district on a sound financial basis, and where this is not already the case, the members might make some small sacrifice, or consider seriously whether a judicious reduction of benefits or increase of contributions would or would not be to their ultimate advantage. Thanks to the energy and perseverance of our general secretary, Bro. Kennedy, we are, for the first time, in a position of having a report from every lodge and district over the entire Unity, 80 that are able to form an idea of the exact position of affairs throughout the whole Order, which bears tnatwehave a prospective deficiency of £ 573,108. ■"lis is a matter which our members, with a small, personal sacrifice, might soon wipe out, and place themselves in the very forefront of the Friendly oociety movement as a perfectly sound financial in- stitution. The ritual, as revised by the board of management, according to the instructions of the last A.1i .C., has been in the hands of districts for the last six months, and, I hope, has met with your approval. A proper time will be set apart for the discussion of the same at this meeting. At the last A.M.C. it was decided that voluntary subscriptions should be solicited from every lodge in the Order for the maintenance of the second lifeboat you so handsomely agreed to present to the National Life- boat Institution, and which was so successfully launched at Greenock. I am sorry so many of the districts did not subscribe to this most deserving object, but when we consider the very depressed state of trade throughout our land, this is not to be wondered at. I trust the Good Shepherd (which is the name of the lifeboat) may have a long and useful career, and that when occasion demands it may be the means of succouring many of our fellow men who may be beset with danger. From the report of the Generall Secretary, which was of an extensive character, we extract the following:— The year 1892 was one of interest, of progress of attainment, and of hopefulness for the future prosperity of our noble Order. Even grim death has been more merciful upon us last year, as we have fewer deaths by L26 than in 1891, which is a saving of nearly £2,000 compared with that year. Our sickness experience shows a slight decrease on that of 1891, which is satisfactory from our advan- cing in tige and from increased numbers; it is very favourably compared with the abnormally high increase of the previous twoyears, mainly caused by the influenza epidemic, xhatwe are now able to pay nearly £90,6(}() a year in sick and funeral claijne alone, compared with £$5,000 ten years ago, is the raont solid proof of our progress and our power for irood amongst tke wane-earning classes of Britain and Ivtlaxid. and "in no part of the country that influence for been mor* felt tbæl in Waies during hose unfortunate colliery dis- astera, tl^at have from time to time devastated its mountains arid valleys. Coming first to deal with the numerical condition of the Order as at the 31st December, 1892, we find there were two new dis- tricts and 35 new lodges opened during the year, compared with 39 lodges in 1891 and in 1890. One district (Kirkburton), comprising one lodge, was suspended for refusing to become registered as a branch of the Order, five lodges were closed, 14 lodges were amalgamated with other lodges, leaving a net increase of one district and 16 lodges, which brings up the number of lodges in the Ashton Unity to 945 at 31st December last. WIS- bech Unity has opened two new lodges, raising their number to what it was two years ago—101 lodges. From the returns sent in, which repre- sent every district in both Unities, there were 12.337 new members admitted to the Ashton Unity as against 13,345 in 1891, and 13:339 in 1890; 943 were admitted to Wisbech Unity, as against 839 in 1891, and 988 in 1890, or a total of 13,280 new members admitted to both Unities last year, as compared with 14,184 admitted in 1891; 292 of our Unity died, and 125 of the Wisbech Unity—in all 1,107, being 126 less deaths than in 1891, and 65 less than in 1890 8037 members were struck ofE the roll of the Ashton Unity, which is an alarming number looked at from any standpoint, being 1,464 more lapses than in 1891 347 were struck off the Wisbech Unity, as against 584 in 1891, a total of 8.384 lapsed members, leaving a net increase of 3.789 members, and bringing up the membership of both Unities under the federation to 105,585 ordi- nary members and 3,828 honorary members, or a total of 109,413 members. (Applause.) What a grand ring of power and influence do these latter figures convey, were it not for the melancholy spec- tacle of having let 8,384 members fall away from our beneficent care in one year. That this.qnestion is assuming such magnitude as to be alarming is beyond cavil. While many districts are earnestly endeavouring to make history for us, others by their indifference and apathy are as surely unmak- ing it. Summarising these particulars, it will be seen that at the end of last year our Order con- sisted of 97 districts, having 945 lodges and 91,867 members. Wisbech Unity, 6 districts and 101 lodges, with 13,718 members, or, jointly, 103 districts, 1,046 lodges, and 105,585 members. The total funds of both Unities are £ 392,123 14s 5d. (Applause.) This, as compared with the funds shewn at the last annual meeting, viz,, £365,503 8s 2d, gives us the handsome sum to add to our funds of upwards of £26,000. This is most encouraging, as it is the most important part of our work, and affords room for congratulation on the practical steps taken to improve the financial condition of the Order. From another point it also shews great advance- ment. and goes to prove that working men are be- coming alive to the earning power of invested capi- tal. and the prominent part it plays in the solvency or insolvency of branches. A glance at the figures now submitted, compared with those of former years, reveal the important fact that a much larger portion of our capital is now being invested in property and land and on Government securities, which is a step in the right direction, and let us hope will he still further developed. The question of disposing profitaoly of a portion of the funds lying in the hands of treasurers, has still to be grappled with, as at present, m both unities combined, there is over £ 22,000 m hand, which at the lowest calculation is losing* £ 500 a year m tne form of interest, and in some cases is a temptation to the members who retain it. The income of the lodges amounted to Is 7d. Of this amount .£61,8 13S gd was expended on sick relief; ;£17,)111s for funerals £20,542 18s 4d for distress; £10,889 lls 2d for medical aid; £276 4s 2d for widows and orphans; £19.306 ll's for management, leaving a ga.in of £26,002 2s 3d. (Applause.) The above results are arrived at as followsIncome to Ashton Unity, 1129.426 lis lOd; expenditure, £lU4:,lOH 68 7d; showing a gain of £25,317 5s 3d. Wisbech Unity, income. £16,672198 9 expenditure, £15 !J88 2s. 9d., leaving a gain of £684 17s., or, as already stated, a total gam of £26,002 2s. 3d. It will be observed with pleasure, that while our in come last year was almost £ 8,500 more than in 1891, our expenditure was only £ 1900 more than m 1891, which contrasts favourably with former years, and at the same time we have paid in direct benefits upwards of £100,000 last year, exclusive of manage- ment expenses. Both reports were adopted and ordered to be printed, as was that of the auditors, presented by Bro. W. Rees, of Cardiff; after which an adjournment was decided upon, to enable the delegates to take part in a grand demonstration and'fete at Acton Park, the residence of Sir Robert Cunliffe. Little business of local interest was transacted on Tuesday, the chief matters being the ap- pointment ot Bro. J. F. Crawford, of Swansea, as C.S. for the ensuing year, and of Bro. G. Alexander, Dundee, as D.C.S. The latter proved a very close contest, the favourite only having a majority of one over his rival. Vacancies en the Board of Management having been filled up, the editor of the Magazine (Bro. J. B. Archbald Ashton) was re-elected. Five districts-applied ¿. for the honour of having the A.M.C. of 1894 j hehl-in their midst:—Wisbech, Hull, Swansea,! Pontypridd, and Cardiff, and after close voting J betoraen Hull and Swansea the former was selected. A special train, conveying the delegates, left Wrexham station at fovir o'clock on Tuesday afternoon for Rossett, and after a short time I' spent in the village the paity walked to Gresford. Here dancing took place on the green attached to the Griffin Inn, the Wrexham Borough Band supplying the music. Light refreshments were also provided. The excursion was thoroughly enjoyed by those participating in it, the lovely views of the Vale of Gresford being much admired. The return train left Gresford at 9.45 p.m. Wednesday's sitting was mainly occupied with the report, presented by the General Secretarv, as to decaying districts. Referring to the position of these districts generally, he said i they h fewerlbosses, more workers, and less leaders pro- gress would be much greater. (Hear, fceat.) He trusted that the result of their deliberations would be that never again in their history would they have to report a lapse of 8,DOO members- ia. one year. (Applause.) The recommendation of the Board of Management was that greater power be given to the officers and the Board to strictly supervise decaying districts and lodges, and insist on them improving their condition, or being summarily dealt with by fine suspension. —Bros. Lewis|(Ebbw Yale) and Davies (Tre- degar) gave explanations as to the dc-aiy in the former district, both putting it down to bad trade and the competition of other orders.— Bro. Watson (Glasgow) moved that the j report as to decaying districts be accepted, and that it be the duty of the Board to deal with I each district on its merits. — Bro. Oromar seconded. Brothers Moss (Ashton) and Woeley (Stalybridge) moved that no further power be given.—The motion, however, was carried by j 66 votes to 15. The Conference proceeded to the consideration of districts who had failed to adopt graduated scales, and further grace until September next was decided to be given.—A pleasing feature of- he day's proceedings was the presentation of illuminated addresses to the Chief Shepherd by deputations representing the Grand United Order of Oddfellows and the Ancient Order of Foresters.—At the invitation of the Hawardeu District, the delegates visited Hawarden in the afternoon leaving the Central Station by a special train at 3.30. On their arrival they proceeded to the Rectory. It was expected that Mr Gladstone would speak to the visitors. Much regret, however, was felt and expressed when it became known that the Rev Stephen Gladstone bad been taken suddenly ill. It was not until close upon eight o'clock that the Premier consented to appear upon a terrace at the Rectory, accompanied by Mrs Gladstone, who, clasping his hand, and smiling upon the crowd, exclaimed, He is looking exceedingly well, isn't ha ?" Wonderfully well" was the reply, and U od blesshkn!" "I hope you all feel as well, added Mr Gladstone, evidently well pleased witn. thft greeting which wsis given him in the waving of hats and a cheer that was hushed into silence, remembering the sick one within the house. With a hearty "good evening" Mr and Mrs Gladstone then re-entered the house. An excellent meat tea was served at the Glynne Arms, this being provided by the Hawarden district. At Thursday's sitting, a resolution of the Board of Management was considered, which recommended a grant of £25 to the Flower of Wales Lodge, of Merthyr and Aberdare district, which had lost all its funds by the failure of the Liberator Society.—Bro Moss (Ashton) asked whether the investment was a legal one.—The General Secretary replied in the negative.—Bro Lawrence (Merthyr and Aberdare) explained the circumstances under which the investment was made, and said that the district would do its utmost to help the lodge. — The General Secretary said the Board of Management had considered the application, and had come to the conclusion that the interests of the Order would be best served by making the grant. If the in- vestment had been legal much more would have been allowed. After considerable discussion, the recommendation was agreed to. The next business was the consideration of the old age pension and sickness tables, as sub- mitted by Mr Thomas Abbott, actuary.—Tbe General Secretary said the tables of contribu- tions and pensions contained a mine of informa- tion ofj great value. They had first a scale to provide a pension of 5s weekly after the age of 65, and another to give the same benefit, but the Contributions to stop at 50. These were repeated three times over first on tbe basis that no con- tributions would be returned in the event of death in the second place, all contributions would be returned to the relatives in case of death and in the third return all contribfitions with 2J per cent interest in the event of death. These, again, were repeated t-> e'Ome into benefit at 60. If they took the first tapre;tI yrnm^-wan- ,of 1, who desired ~a\peosioii' 65; would :.pa7 for the whole period 2id a wk in addition to the ordinary contribution for sick and funeral benefit. At 20 years of age he weuld pay 3d, at 30 5id, 35 6fd, 40 9!d, 45 Is Hd, and when they commenced paying at 50 Is 9d per week. If the member died previously, the contributions would not be returned. If the contributions were to cease at 50 they would be raised from 4d weekly at the age of 18 to 4fd at 25, and so on in proportion. However they might desire old age pensions, he was afraid that until working men were better paid for their labour they would be practically unable to accomplish the object in view on these lines. (Applause.) If a man required the pension at 65 with return- able contributions without interest in case of prior death, if he commenced paying at 18 the contribution would be 5id per week, at 20 5|d, 25 7d, 30 9d, 35 lid, 40 Is 2d. Under the present conditions of living it was totally impossible for nine-tenths of the working people to do that in addition to present sick and funeral payments. On the same basis to return contributions with interest, which was simply a banking transaction, in case of prior death, the lowest contribution would be 6!d rising to Is 5id per week at the age of 40 In the last scale he saw the basis on which they might ultimately accomplish the object in view without unduly taxing any individual or calling in State intervention or subsidy. They were greatly indebted to Messrs Abbott, the valuers, for this key-note to the other tables. There was a set of payments for sick benefit at 10s a week for six months, 5s for the next six months, and 2s 6d for the remainder of the sickness. If the rules were framed to cease sick pay at 65 years of age, a young man entering at 18 would pay 2s 5d a year less, at 20 2s 9d, 25 3s 7d, 30 4s 2id, 35 5s 3id, 40 6s 3d, 45 8s 7ia, 50 119 3d. Then it would be possible to pay the difference for pensions. He recom- mended that the question should be deferred twelve months, and specially referred to he attention of Lodges and Districts. ^In addition to the present payment, „ £ jd ."rld^rweek, with that revised sick airangement, would pro- vide a 5s pension at 65. This would also prevent funds being milked by chronic cases drawing pensions without having paid the proper contri- bution to provide for them. He admitted that that would not meet the case of old members, but first they could prevent the disease becoming greater, and when the scheme for stopping sick pay at 65 got into full working order it would be found practicable to provide pensions for old members as well as the younger ones.(Applause.) Bro. Painter (Bristol) proposed that the tables be referred back in order that they might be discussed by the districts.—Bro. Cromar (Hawar- den), who seconded; said he thought they had made a step forward in that important matter^ After discussion, the proposition was agreed to. In the evening the delegates were entertained at a banquet at the Wynnstay Arms Hotel. Sir Robert Cunliffe, who presided, was supported by Sir G. Osborne Morgan, M.P., and the leading officers of the Order. i ht: morning sitting on Friday was devoted the consideration of the valuers' report,which, t ic: gh shewing considerable progress, was not gaicied as absolutely satisfactory. It was de- cided to refer the report to the lodges, with a r q ts that every effort be made- to put them- SELVES into a thoroughly sound financial position. Friday was generally regarded as clearing-up day, most of the business transacted being of a purely routine character. Various complimen- tary votes were agreed to, none being passed with more unanimity than that to the Wrexham district, the Pro. Cor. Sec. of which—Bro. J. Taylor—had left nothing undone which would in any way enhance the comfort and p'easure of the delegates. The sum of £25 was voted to the Wrexham district towards the expenses incur- red. The C.S. and D.C.S. were duly installed into office, and the brethren, after singing "Aula lang syne and the National Anthem, dispersed, well pleased with their experience at the A.M.U. W. G FARE, Abergavenny District. J. EVANS, Blaenavon District.