The North Wales Times

MEETING OF DENBIGHSHIRE MINERS. A NUMEROUSLY attended meeting of Den- bighshire miners was held on Friday night at the Public Hall, Rhosllanerchrugog, Rua- bon, to protest against the practice at some collieries of compelling the miners to pay a weekly sum to doctors appointed by the proprietor of the collieries. The meeting was of opinion that the men should be al- lowed to choose their own doctors and pay him themselves, and not allow the money to be deducted from their wages, and a re- solution was passed to this eflect. Refer- ence was also made to other grievances, and it was decided that a deputation should in- terview the employers with a view to an amicable settlement.

BOARD OF GUARDIANS. The ordinary meeting was held on Saturday last, when there were present, Mr. Evan Jones (chairman), Mr. Wm. Morris (vice-chairman), Messrs. T. Jones, Morris Peters, Robert Jones, Evan Evans, W. T. Rowlands, Daniel Roberts, Thomas Lloyd, John Thomas, Thomas Davies, Mrs Parry, J. R. Jones (clerk), T. R. Dakin (assistant clerk). The balance in the treasurer's hands was reported to be £ 72 7s. 6d., and in the relieving officer's hands, 95 16s. 6d. During the fortnight £ 39 12s. Od. had been ex pended in relieving 179 out-door paupers, as against f,40 16s. Od. to 185 paupers last year. THE HOUSE. The Master reported that there were 38 paupers in the Workhouse last week, as com- pared with 25 last year. The Workhouse accommodates only 40 inmates, and the number last week was the heaviest on record here, there being only accommodation for two more paupers. Several of the inmates were reported to be bedridden, and needed continual attend- ance. Mrs. Parry gave notice that at the next meeting she would move that in view of the increased number of inmates, the desirability of appointing an assistant matron for a period of three months be considered. Mrs. Parry and Mr. Thomas Davies reported that they had visited the house that day, and found the house** clean. They also noticed that coffee was given the inmates on Saturday, instead of butter-milk and bread and cheese to dinner. The Master, in reply to queries, said that the diet on that day had been altered in consequence of the fact that they could not obtain a supply of butter-milk. The question of expense of sub- stituting meat-scouse for butter-milk and bread and cheese was somewhat similar in both cases and the inmates, the Master thought, would be pleased with the change. This being the case, it was resolved, upon the. motion of Mr. Robert Jones, seconded by Mr. Thomas Jones, that instead of broad and cheese, with butter-milk on Saturdays, meat- I scouse should henceforth bo substituted. William Richards, an innate, javing applied for a pair of spectacles, it was resolved that a pair be purchased, and let him. I Mrs. Hugh Jones, who is now daily engaged nursing the sick, applied for an additional remuneration for attending a midwifery case. Some discussion took place as to the extent jf her duties, but it was ultimately resolved that an additional sum of 2s. 6d. be paid to her for her services as above. DISTRICT NURSE. A letter was read from the Penllyn District Nurse Association, stating that at a meeting of the Executive Committee, it was resolved that as the nurse had a great deal of work in this large district, the Committee confirm the reso- lution passed in April last, that the nurse being District Nurse, is only to attend patients in the Workhouse by order of the doctor.

Henry Rudferd, carpenter, of Pirbright, was killed by an express train as he was crossing the railway at Brookwood Station, on Satur- day. The remains of the late Earl of Kinnoull were interred on Saturday in the family vault at Dapplin Castle, Perthshire. A memorial service took place concurrently at St. Paul's, Knightsbridge, the Rev. H. Montagu ViUierB officiating.

It has been figured out that a man who shaves regularly until he is eighty years of age has cut off about thirty-five feet of iaxt from his face.

SCHOOL BOARD. THE monthly meeting of the Board was held on Tuesday. Mr. Thomas Roberts, vice chairman, presided, in the absence of the chairman, Mr. .J. Harrison Jones, who was ill. The other members present were, Rev. H. Humphreys, Hev. Benjamin Williams, Messrs Edward Mills, and Wm. Keepfer, with the clerk, Mr. R. H. Roberts. THE USE OF COAL IN THE SCHOOLS. The Clerk presented a number of bills for payment, including those for coal supplied to the schools for heating purposes. Mr. Th jrnas Roberts I find that the bill for coal supplied to Love Lane school amounts to £ 2 14s. 2d. It seems to me to be a very heavy item indeed. Mr. Humphreys For what time ? Mr. Thomas Roberts From October 14th to December 16th. That is practically two months and I think the amount of coal con- sumed is out of all proportion to the time. I don't think we ought; to supply the caretaker of Love Lane school with coal. It is to be Used for heating the schools. Mr. Keepfer; He is allowed coal for hIS own use. Mr. Thomas Roberts Certainly not. Mr. Keepfer But I think that is the case. The Clerk No he his not entitled to coal, sir. Mr. Thomas Roberts: There is no earthly sense in paying £2 14s. 2d. for coal for two months. As representatives of the ratepayers, We are not supposed to supply the Love Lane caretaker with coal, and I certainly protest against it. The Clerk Do you instruct me to write in the matter ? Mr. Thomas Roberts Something should be done, because there is no sense in it. It is not a part or parcel of our agreement with the caretaker to supply him with coal. Mr. Humphreys Does the caretaker use the coal for his own purpose ? Are we certain of that ? The Chairman It seems to me that he does. Mr. Mills But does he use it ? That is the question ? Mr. Thomas Roberts I do not say that he does, but to me it looks very much like it. Mr. Humphreys said that economical grates had been fixed up at Henllan, and that the quantity of coal used there was net very large. In reply to a question, the clerk said that the quantity consumed at Henllan was only about two and half hundredweights per school per week, which the board considered very reason- able. Mr. Thomas Roberts Yes, when we consider that they hn,ve three fires there. Mr. Williams How many fires are there in Love Lane ? Mr. Thomas Roberts: Only one fire to heat the apparatus. There are nolfires kept in the schools. Can you Mr. Clerk, after the busi- ness of the Board, refer to the terms of Mr. Hichard Roberts' engagement, and to his agree- ment ? Mr. Keepfer is evidently under an im- pression that we are to supply the caretaker with coal for his own use. The Clerk Oh, no sir we are not to do that. Mr. Thomas Roberts I do not say that he does use it himself. I only say that it looks very much like it in the face of this bill. No resolution was proposed, and the subject then dropped. APOLOGY. A letter of apology for non-attendance was read from the llev. H. 0. Hughes, Henllan, in which he also thanked the Board for their kind expression of sympathy with him during his recent illness SCHOOL ATTENDANCE. ANOTHER COMPLAINT. Mr. Pierce, headmaster of the National Schools, wrote, calling the attention of the Board to the very irregular attendance of the scholars at the schools since last November, but especially so since the beginning of the year. The attendance for the last six weeks had barely reached 74 per cent. The irregular at- tendance could not be caused by illness, as the children were present in the morning and ab- sent in the afternoon, and vice versa. He sup- plied the Attendance Officer with lists week after week, but this did not cause any improv- ment. Mr. Keepfer said that at the last meeting, they had almost come to the conclusion that Unsatisfactory attendance at the schools was the result of the prevalence of illness In the town. If illness stopped the children from going to the other schools, it must also stop them from attending the National Schools. Mr. Humphreys thought that an average at- tendance of 74 per cent was on the whole satis- factory. The Clerk having given the average attend- ance at the other schools, Mr. Thomas Roberts said he should ask the (lerk a question. As the examination of the schools was so close at hand, lie should like to know upon whose authority the schools of the town under the board were closed on the pre- vious Thursday afternoon, and why? The Clerk s iid he could not answer the ques- tion. A message came to him stating that the Schools would be empty on that afternoon because of a funeral, and asking would he sanc- tion the closing of the schools. He wrote back stating that he could not sanction such a, thing, a.nd that whatever was done by the teachers, would be done on their own responsibility. Mr. Thomas Roberts Then I wish to enter tny most solemn and emphatic protest against such a thing. I do not think it is right, and Miss Parry Williams and Miss Davies ought to be brought to book for it. The Clerk Were the Boys' school closed? Mr. Keepfer Of course Mr. Thomas Roberts Yes, because my little hoy came borne that afternoon. The Clerk said the teachers fcould not get the children to school, and if it had been open, they would have to mark them as absent Mr. Thomas Roberts said he was at the fune- tal, which passed the Town Hall at twelve min- utes to two. The children could be in school 8.t two. The teachers' excuse was a lame one, ^nd they should be written to by the clerk, ^uch a thing ought not to occur again. Mr. Keepfer: The children are bossing the teachers. Mr. Thomas Roberts: Yes, and it seems to e, that the teachers are bossing also. I pro Pose that the clerk should draw their attention to such irregular proceedings. Mr. Mills said the occasion was rather an Exceptional one. Mr. Keepfer said that when a tea party, or chapel fcr p occurred, the same thing would ta.ke place without the consent of the chairman the Board. Of course the teachers were not be blamed very much, because they could llfjt get the children to school. Mr. Humphreys said he could understand cH ohil4ren absented themselves to attend a tJaPel trip, but they ought not to be allowed so so on the occasion of a public funeral. 4 thought it would be wise for the teachers $ei^rarn them beforehand not to absont them- on such occasions. coif was ultimately decided to ask the clerk to IUtnunlcate with the teachers to this effect. THE SCHOOL CHILDREN AND PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENTS. Peoili' ^iIls called a^ention to the fact that i*dtitZ fche schools from time to time to the children to attend performances given by them, and bring coppers with them. He thought it should not be allowed. Mr. Keepfer asked whether this took place during school hours. Mr. Mills said it was so, and that such a thing occurred about two or three months ago. He could not say whether it had taken place later or not. Children came home, and their parents had to provide them with pence to attend the performance One man had been complaining to him that he could not afford to give his children coppers, and this kind of thing drew their attention from their lessons. The Clerk said the entertainment was not held during school hours. The subject of the performance met with the approval of the headmaster who satisfied him (the clerk), that it would be beneficial to the children. The subject then dropped. The was no other business of interest.

DENBIGHSHIRE & FLINTSHIRE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. THE LOCAL COMMITTEE AND THE BALANCE OF THE DENBIGH SHOW. On Tuesday, at the Bull Hotel, iColonel Mesbam presided over a largely attended meeting of the Denbigh local committee of the last Agricultural Show of the Denbigh- shire and Flintshire Society, to consider the request made by the society that the local committee should pay over to the society, the balance of the last show held at Den- bigh, amounting to about £ 47, and which now stands in the bank, by resolution of the last meeting of the local committee, in the names of the then president (Col. Mesham), and the vice-president (Mr. P. E. Story), to remain there as a neuclas towards the next show at Denbigh. Colonel Mesham, in opening the proceed- ings, fully explained the positionlof affairs and in conclusion expressed the opinion that in the face of the fact that though it was not expressly stated in the rules that local committees were to hand over their balan- ces yet, although the society has been in existence 50 years, Denbigh was the first place to set up a claim to the balance made; consequently, they would be setting up a precedent which would, if followed, be dan- gerous to the well-being of the society and he strongly heped and urged that the meet- ing would resolve that the balance should be handed over to the society. Mr. P. E. Story took exception to the whole proceedings, and urged that the local committee having settled up the local affairs of the show, and deposited the balance in the bank in the names of the trustees, was now defunct; several of the members were dead, and could not revoke what had been done. After much argument, however, this point was over-ruled; and the meeting discussed at length the general question. Mr. R. Williams Wynn urged the paying over of the balance, and pointed out that if every place kept the balance made, it would weaken and destroy the parent society, in- stead of there being that unity which ought to prevail to make the society a strong and successful one. Mr. Pennant took the same view, and urged the handing over of the balance. He andi several other speakers, however, ex- pressed the opinion that as the society took the balances, the society should to some ex- tent, at any rate, be prepared to meet the deficiences. Mr. Wynne Edwards said it would be a bad thing for the society if such a rule was made as that of the society paying deficits. Certain places where the show went were notoriously extravagant, and lif they found that the society was responsible for deficits, it would not curtail but increase their ex travagance. He objected to the handing over of the local balance. Mr. Story criticised the secretarial and financial departments of the society, and alluded to the extravagance in expenditure, quoting that for printing and advertising for the last show and the laying out of the show grounds. These remarks called up Mr. Frank Bellis, the secretary, and between him and Mr. Story there was some contention, Mr. Story saying that at Denbigh they tried to control the secretary, but he controlled and over- ruled them, and Mr. Bellis retorting that he had never heard of Mr. Story until the Den- bigh show, but he had heard a good deal of him since, and his utterances were all of the same complaining spirit. He ^defended the expenditure named and said that the first sum included allloffice stationery, postages, &c., and said that the laying out of the field in every way for 1,000 entries was only £ 32 as against X26 at Denbigh Iwith only 600 entries. Mr. Pennant moved a resolution that the trustees, Colonel Mesham and Mr. Story, be recommended to hand over the balance now in the bank from the Denbigh Show, or such por- tion of it as might be necessary in conformity with the amended rules of the Society. It be. ing suggested that possibly the committee who had been delegated to amend the Rules of the Society in reference to the balances being han- ded over, might suggest the retention by local committees of a portion of their balance?. Mr. Roberts, Lleweni, seconded this. Messrs. W. Barker, W. H. Evans, T. W. ] Bowdage, Boaz Jones, and others, took part in the debate. Mr. Byford said Ruthin were ready to hand over their balance of f,50 from last year's show if Denbigh would hand over theirs. Mr. Wynne Edwards moved, as an amend- ment, that the meeting be adjourned until after the meeting of the committee to be called for amendment of rules, and the meeting of the Society, which was to confirm such rules; and that then the members of Denbigh Local Com- mittee be called to consider the question of this balance. Mr. W. H. Evans seconded that amendment; and after further discussion, the question went to the vote. Objection was, however, taken to the votes of some members of the Society from Mold, who j had come over to the meeting to vote for the handing over of the balance, but who were not members of the Denbigh Local Committee, and their votes were ruled out of order. On voting, it was found that Mr. Wynne Edwards'amendment was carried by a majority of three. The meeting was afterwards adjourned.

The steam collier John Grafton, of Shields, with coal, struck on a sunken rock off Noir- moat Point on Friday while making for Jersey Harbour. She was afterwards run aground off St. Aubin's Fort. In Japan, small children of the poor, who have the gift of straying and no nurses to look after them, are safeguarded by the simple precaution of hanging labels round their necks which tell their names and adresses.

RUTHIN. MAGIC LANTERN ENTERTAINMENT. On Tuesday night, at the Salvation Army Barracks, Staff Captain Myers, gave a magic lantern entertainment to a large company. The views and lecture illustrated rescue work done by the Salvation Army in different parts of the world. TEMPERANCE. The second of the series of temperance meetings held in the town took place on Friday evening, at the Independent chapel, Rev. D. Jones, pastor presiding. The Rev. David Oliver, Holywell, delivered an eloquent address on the evil of indulging in intoxicating drink. There was a very good audience present. Tonight (Friday), the third meeting will be held in the Wesleyan chapel, when the Rev. Hugh Hughes, late of London, and Mr. Evans, Caerwys, will be the speakers. FIRE BRIGADE. The annual meeting of the Fire Brigade was held at the fire station on Wednesday, Captain Rouw presiding. All the officers and members of the brigade were present. The whole of the accounts were gone carefully through, and passed subject to the usual audit. It was decided to accept the estimate of Messrs Shand, Mason and Co., for the conversion of the present Manual' into one of the latest types, and to forward the engine away at once. The annual report will be issued next week. THE INDIAN FAMINE FUND. A public meeting, convened by the Mayor, was held on Monday night in the Town Hall, when Mr. E. O. V. Lloyd (High Sheriff of Denbighshire) presided. The chairman moved a resolution of sym- pathy with the sufferers by famine and pesti- lence in India, which was seconded by the Rev. J. F. Reece (Rector of Llanfwrog). The Rev. D. Jones (Congregationalist) proposed that the churches and chapels be requested to make collections for the relief fund, and this was seconded by the Rev. T. W. Reese (English Presbyterian), a rider in favour of a house-to- house collection being adopted at the sugges- tion of Mr. J. W. Lumley. BoThlmotions were carried. Mr. T. Rouw announced that he had received subscriptions from Mrs. Naylor Ley- land of £10, the High Sheriff JE5, Mr. S. J. Weyman 95, Mr. G. Blezard £ 5, Mr. J. S. Scales £ 2 2s., General Cary £ 1 Is., and Dr. J. M. Hughes, 10s. 6d. Other subscriptions were received in the room, raising the total to close upon E40. We understand that the following sub- scriptions have been received in aid of the Indian Famine Fund in addition to those announced at the public meeting on Monday night:—Mr. Thomas Jenkins, Tynycelyn 95; Rev. W. P. Whittington £ 3 3s. Od.; Mr. J. W. Lumley Yl Is. Od.; Miss Brooks jEl; the Mas- ters Reece Is. each. THE FATAL TRAP ACCIDENT. THE INQUEST. On Saturday last, at the County Hall, Dr. J. R. Hughes, coroner for West Denbigh- shire held an inquest on the body of Lewis Evans, aged 62, blacksmith, of Graigfechan, who as reported in our last issue, sustained severe injuries on the previous Thursday. Mr, T. P. Roberts, acted as foreman of the jury. Powell Evans, Mwrog Street, identified the body lying at the White Bear Inn, as that of his father, but he knew nothing of the acci- dent. Price Morris, Borough Surveyor, said he was in Well Street, on Thursday, and witnessed the accident. Deceased was leading a pony down the street. He had some Iron in the cart which rattled, and caused the pony to become restive. Deceased in trying to hold the pony, broke the bearing rein, and the pony then made a rush, with the result that the cart came in contact with another conveyance. Deceased fell down. Witness went to him, and he asked him (wit ness) to fetch someone to him. Witness ran for Dr. Hughes. Deceased was then removed to the White Bear, and attended by Dr. Hughes. Dr. J. Medwyn Hughes said he was summoned to deceased at half past three on Thursday afternoon. He examined him, and found three ribs on the left side fractured. Deceased was a weak man, and was suffering from shock, from which he never recovered, dying the fol- lowing day. The jury returned a verdict of accidental death. The foreman moved a vote of thanks to the Coroner for the very impartial and lucid man- ner in which he had conducted the inquiry. Mr. William Thomas, draper, seconded, and it was carried. On the motion of Mr. J. E. Morris, a jury- man, a vote of sympathy with deceased's fa- mily was also carried.

BALA. TEMPERANCE. A temperance meeting was held at the Plasey chapel on Saturday last, when Miss Peters presided. Songs and addresses were contributed. THE THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE. On Saturday last, at the invitation of the Principal, the Rev. J. J. Jones, B.A., Rhydy- bont, Cardiganshire, addressed the students on Dr. Phillips, Neuaddlwyd." PENLLYN DISTRICT COUNCIL. The ordinary meeting was held on Saturday last. There were present Mr. Thomas Jones (vice chairman), Messrs Evan Jones, Morris Peters, John Thomas, Thomas Lloyd, Thomas Davies, W. T. Rowlands, Robert Jones, W. Morris, J. R. Jones (clerk) T. R. Dakin (assistant clerk). The balance in the treasurer's hands was reported to be 9284 4s. lOd. Cheques were drawn for £ 41 14s. Od. CEMETERY FOR LLANUWCHLLYN. A letter was read from the Local Govern- ment Board, stating that they would proceed to issue an order declaring the expenses incurred by or on behalt of the District Coun- cil, in this matter, to be special expenses chargeable to that Parish. LIGHT RAILWAYS. A letter was read from the Uwchaled Light Railway Committee, enclosing the following resolution passed by them:—' That a line of railway from Corwen to Bettwsycoed is great- ly needed, and that steps be taken to prepare a scheme. The probable cost of preliminary proceedings is estimated at £ 200 which will be defrayed by all the district councils, through which the line will pass.' Mr. Evan Jones said, that the line as pro- posed would pass through 38 Parishes, but would only pass through about a mile of one Par- ish in Bala Union-Llandderfel. If the coun- cil adopted the resolution, that would bind them to pay an indefinite sum. Mr. W. T. Rowlands, however thought the council would not be committing themselves by adopting the first part of the resolution Subsequently Mr. Evan Jones proposed, and Mr. W. T. Rowlands seconded :-That this council approves of the resolution, and that they bind themselves to contribute a sum not exceeding ;C5., Mr. W. Morris proposed an amendment, and Mr. J. Thomas seconded:-That this council contri- butes £ 3 3s. Od.' The division was even, so that the chairman had to give his casting vote, which he did for the motion. It was further resolved that Messrs W. Richards, Evan Jones, W. T. Rowlands, and Robert Jones be appointed a standing com- mittee in this matter. GINGEFAIL ROAD. Several persons, who were interested in this road appeared to submit their reasons for applying to the council to take over this road to repair. Mr. Robert Lewis, one of the ap- pellants, said he used to pay for the repair of e the road, but could not say whether ths rate then was voluntary or obligatory. Messrt J. Thomas and Mr. Evan Jones remarked tha in their opinion the road was a public road. Mr. Robert Jone3 said he was not sure whether it was so, but there were at least signs of a road there. Mr. Thomas Davies said he had heard his father state that when at Trawsnant for over 20 years, he had used the road in going to and from Bala. Mr. Morris said the question at issue was, whether this road had been repaired at the expense of the township. There were plenty of public roads, which could not be closed. The question arose, whether a rate had been levied for the purpose and if so, was it voluntary or obligatory. After some further discussion, it was resolved that Messrs Thomas Davies, Evan Jones, W. Morris, and W. T. Rowlands, be appointed a committee to inspect the road, and report thereon. PENYBYLCHAU ROAD. It was resolved upon the motion of Mr. Thomas Jones, seconded by Mr. Morris that Messrs Morris Peters, Evan Evans, and Thomas Davies inspect this road, and report thereon. ROAD NEAR BRYNCALED. A letter was read from Miss Jones, Bryn- caled, Llanuwchllyn, ealling attention to the condition of road parsing her house. The clerk said he thought the above road, among others, would be considered by the Parish Council on Monday next. It was then resolved that the matter be deferred to the next meeting. ERWENT BRIDGE. It was resolved upon the motion of Mr. W. Morris, seconded by Mr. W. T. Rowlands, that the County Council be asked to erect a bridge near Buarthmeini for wheel traffic, instead of the present wooden one belonging to the County, which is in very bad repair, and that with a view, to avoid danger to the public in time of flood, this Council will make the approaches to the bridge if the County Council will erect a bridge as above mentioned. MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT. The medical officer reported that th number of births and deaths during the past year were:—Births 98 rate per 1,000 21*81. Rate per 1,000 in 1895, 23 59. Deaths 65, rate per 1,000 14*46. Rate per 1,000 in 1895, 12-68. As compared with 1895, there was a decrease of 8 in the number of births, and an increase of 8 in the number of deaths. During the latter part of the year, scarlet fever prevailed over the whole district. It was a mild form, and no deaths were recorded due thereto, and with careful attention, and closing of schools, it gradually died away. There were two cases of diphtheria at Llan- uwchllyn, one of which proved fatal. The exact cause was not satisfactorily made out, but it was prevented from spreading by at- tending to the usual precautions. There have been new houses erected in every parish, be longing to the district, and repairs have been executed where several complaints had been made in previous years, and he trusted in time the whole of the houses, which have been reported on different occasions will be repaired so as to be fit for human habitation. In the parishes- of Llanuwehllyn and Llandderfel, important steps have been taken to improve the drains. On the whole the water supply is satisfactory. A new pump has been erected at Pandy Llanuwchllyn, which is a boon to the inhabitants in that part of the village: and the water has been tested, and found fit for human consumption. The supply at Glanyrafon, Cwmtirmynach, and Sarnau has also been found to be ample, and the quality good. Since his last report, many dwelling houses had been accommoda- ted with privies; and no doubt in a short time, every house would have privy accommodation. THE HIGHWAYS. The surveyor reported that the wall near Cwm Cottage on the Bethel Road had been completed, and he thought it a great acquisi- tion. RHYDYDEFAID ROAD FROM NANTYCEUNANT. This road, especially certain parts of it, is in a bad state. A large quantity of stones had been laid along it but before it is put in a proper condition, a much greater quantity of stones must be laid down. Although the road is wide, the road space travelled over is very narrow. The sides being much higher than the centre. Arrangements have been made with D. Davies, Talybont, to cut away part of the sides, so that the water could find a passage from the road. HIRNANT ROAD. Owing to the heavy loads of timber that are being carted along thir: road, considerable damage has been done thereto. The repairs, however, are now almost complete, the hands having being doubled last month to put down the stones in time. BLAENLLIW ROAD. As the weather has been very unfavor- able these last weeks, the foot bridge near Buarthmeini has not yet been made, but the same will be made as soon as possible. SANITATION. The inspector reported a number of houses that had no privy accommodation and he was instructed to send formal notices to the re- sponsible parties to provide same. He had received complaints, that no gate was provided to prevent cattle from getting to the well recently made at Glanyrafon. The Council directed the Inspector to have a gate made to protect the well. DAY OF MEETING. Mr. J. Thomas gave notice that at the next meeting he would move that the time of holding the meetings be changed.

ABERGELE. SPECIAL POLICE COURT. SERIOUS CHARGE AGAINST A TRAMP. On Saturday, before Messrs. W. T. Mason, J. Copping and William Ellis, John Morgan, of no fixed place of abode, describing him- self as a collier, was charged in custody with having indecently assaulted and illtreated á. young girl between 14 and 15 years of age, on the previous night. The complainant was Margaret Williams, daughter of Marga- ret Williams, widow of the late Robert Wil- liams, a carrier. Mr. Crabbe, solicitor, appeared to prose- cute. The complainant, who gave her age as 14 in May last, said that she was employed as a servant with Mr. Henry Jones, farmer, Tan'rallt Bach, Abergele. On Friday night she had to come to Abergele for bread. As she was returning home, about eight o'clock —the night was very dark-at Glanaber, about a quarter of a mile from Abergele, she observed a man, whom she identified as the prisoner, following her. At that time she was resting, and bad placed the loaves of bread on the wall. Prisoner said 'Good night' to her, and she answered him. Pri- soner also asked her for a kiss, and she re- plied You shan't,' and walked on. Prisoner followed, and tried to get hold of her. She dropped the bread on the ground, and pushed him away, and he fell into the mud. Leaving the bread where she had dropped it, she ran towards Glanaber Lodge, with the intention of going into the house, but the gate was fas- tened. There prisoner! overtook her; and after some struggling, threw her on her back on the gravel, at the entrance to Glanaber. She screamed and shouted out, and prisoner endeavoured to put his hand Ðn her mouth. Having described the nature of the assault she went en to say that William Sturgess] postman, came up to them, and prisoner then ran away. Sturgess ran after the man, but returned to her shortly, and she told him what had taken place. Prisoner, who she was sure had had some drink, was a total stranger to her, but she was certain he was the man that insulted her, because the light of a lamp not far from them shone on his face. She had identified him that morning from among four or five other men, at the police station. After further evidence had been called, prisoner was committed for trial. NARROW ESCAPE OF TICKETLESS TRAVELLERS. On Wednesday, before Messrs. W. T. Ma son, and J. Copping, Evan Thomas Evans, navvy of 10, College Street, Wrexham, and William Roberts, 10, Dean Street, Bangor, were brought up in custody charged with travelling from Colwyn Bay to Llanddulas, on Tuesday night, without previously paid their fare, and with intent to defraud the Railway Company. Mr. Taylor, station master, Llanddulas, prosecuted on behalf of the Railway Com- pany. Both prisoners pleaded guilty, and were sentenced to 14 days' imprisonment, in de- fault of paying Xl fine, and 6s. 6d. costs.

We do not hold ourselves responsible for the opinion of our correspondents in the following letters.

THE CHARTER FOR THE BOROUGH OF RUTHIN. TO THE EDITOR OF THE NORTH WALES TIMES." SIR, In the report of the proceedings at the last Town Council meeting, and in your Slings and Arrows on the subject, no mention is made that the Town Clerk referred to the Charter as being in very old Latin. Being rather amused at this reference of the Town Clerk, who by the way is an old Gram- mar School Boy-I was prompted to have a joke at his expense and said :— 'We naturally took to the Town Clerk for a translation (these words are entirely oinitted). If the Charter were in modern Latin, I would not mind undertaking the translation mvself.' This puts, as I am sure you will readily ad- mit, a very different complexion on my remark to that conveyed by the report and the Slings and Arrows. Perhaps you may think it worth while in your next issue, to remove, in your own wise way, the erroneous impression created. J. ROBERTS.

THE DENBIGHSHIRE AND FLINTSHIRE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. TO THE EDITOR OF THE NORTH WALES TIMES.' SIR, I have been informed that at a meeting of the above Society, held last Tuesday, at the Bull Hotel, the question of the disposal of the local fund remaining in the North and South Wales Bank since the show held in Denbigh in 1894 was discussed, and a statement made that only a few of the members of the Local Com- mittee had notices sent them of the meeting at which the resolution referring tp the balance was passed. As the local secretary of the Committee in question, I beg to state that a notice was posted to every member of the Executive Committee, of whom an average number attended. Yours faithfully, J. LL." WILLIAMS. 64, Love Lane, Denbigh.

FLINT. HIGH TI DE. There was an exceptionally high tide on Satur- day night last; and an exciciag scene was witnes- sed among the inhabitants along the sea shore. The sea flowed into several of these dwellings, and moved the furniture about. Such a high tide has not been known since the year 1880. FLAT IN DISTRESS. During the storm on Saturday, a flat hailing from Flint, and commanded by Captain Stephen Bithell, was blown ashore just opposite Dawpool; and the crew were for some hours in a most peri- lous condition and it was with some difficulty that their lives were saved. WOMEN'S TEMPERANCE UNION. There was a very large attendance of the members of the above union on Monday night last at St. Mary's Mount, where Mrs. Dr. Hum- phrey Williams entertained them in a most agree- able manner. The gathering was enlivened by songs, recitations, and instrumental music, to- gether with one or two encouraging addresses. The meeting terminated with a most hearty vote of thanks to the hostess for her kind and generous hospitality. FLINTSHIRE LIBERAL ASSOCIATION. ANNUAL MEETING The annual meeting of the Association was held at Flint on Wednesday—Dr. Easterby, St. Asaph, presiding. There was a good atten- dance, and letters of apology for absence were read from Mr. E. C. Muspratt (Rhyl), Mr. P. Jones (Halkyn), Mr. E. Bryan (Holywell), Mr. S. Smith, M.P., and Mr. J. Herbert Lewis, M.P. The following officers were re-elected President, Mr. M. A. Ralli, Rhyl treasurer, Mr. T. Parry, Mold secretary, Mr. Harding Roberts, Holywell registration officers, Messrs. Mostyn Williams (Rhyl) and J. Morgan (Mold). Delegates were appointed to attend the forthcoming National Liberal Con- ference at Norwich. The registration offieers submitted the annual report, which showed a satisfactory result. The balance-sheet showed a small balance in hand. ENGLISH PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, CHESTER ROAD. On Wednesday evening, a Social Meeting in connection with the Young People's Society of Christian Endeavour was held, when the members sat down to a nice tea, supplied by the Social Committee, after which a lecture on Shetland and the Shetlanders' was delivered (illustrated with magic lantern views), by the Rev. W. Scott, Congregational minister, Southport. The lecture was a most interesting, instructive, and humorous; and the reverend gentleman spoke for over two hours, keeping his audience spell- bound, while he described the position, climate, and gave a general description of the island, and graphically related the manners, customs, habits af the inhabitants, together with some of their Folk-lore. The Rev. David Edwards (pastor) manipulated the lantern and Mr. O. W. Jones, president of the society, presided. A hearty vote of thanks to the lecturer was proposed; and the lecturer, in responding, thanked the audience for manifesting one of the characte- ristics of the Shetlauders viz., 'patience,' by the attentive hearing which they gave him. TRADE OUT-LOOK, The beginning of this year was very anxiously Looked forward to by the tradespeople, and others. as there were various and persistent rumours that we were going to witness a considerable revJra.1 in rade; so far, however, these hopes have not been realised. The United Alkali Company have recently ieclared a dividend on ordinary shares of 2s. per ihare for the half year ending December 31st last. rhis, together with a dividend of. 1 per cent. which was declared on the previous half year, makes a iividend for the year of one and a half per cent. )n the original value of the shares; but as these an now be bought for about £.3, it may be taken. La equal to a dividend of five per cent. But notwithstanding this slight evidence of improvement, locally the chemical trade seems to, be as bad as ever and there are still a very large Dumber of men out of employment. It is stated, however, that a new plant which has been put up at an enormous cost is just about to be completed and is expected to make a start very shortly. This, we understand, will give employment to a few more men. We are glad to state that at the Red Pits Col- liery the out-look is much better and they are gradually adiing to the number of workmen every week. The railway company have taken on a. conside. rable number of men during the last few weeks, and are vigorously pushing forward with the widening of the line.

For the first class PHOTOGRAPHS, go D. k A. HUGHES, Photographers, Mold. Clubs, Par- ies, Schools, &c., by appointment. Moderate harges, J

cribed by the auctioneer as a palatial resi- dence, surrounded by excellent building sites. Houses would no doubt be erected on the spot in time to come, and the pur- chaser of Bryntirion, whoever he might be, would be able to make a great deal of money fo right of light (laughter). Moreover, there was an excellent posting station on the ground, and S25 a year could be easily made from this source whereas the rent of the house was only £ 30. The bidding was started )by Mr. Clough with an offer of £200. This was increased to £375, at which sum the property was withdrawn. The company then separated.