The North Wales Times

BIRTHS. BOYLE-February 13th, at the residence of Mrs. Williams, Caerwys, the wife of Mr. Georgi Boyle, of a daughter-ifrst-born. Mrs. Boyle is a daughter of Mr. W. Hughes, maltster, Denbigh. HUGHics-February 9th, at Spring Bank, Greenfield, Holywell, the wife of Mr. Robert Hughes, of a daughter. JONES—February 5th, at 25, Shepard Street, Crewe, the wife of Mr. W. J. Jones, of a son. JONEs-February 8th, the wife of Mr. J. Watkin Jones, Brynlau Goleu, Bala, of a son. MATTISON-February 14th, at Gladstone House, 9, Abbey Street, Rhyl, the wife of Mr. Robert Mattison, Rhydygaled, Mold, of a daughter. OWEN-February 13th, the wife of Mr. Roger Owen, Ty Draw, Mold, of a son. ROBERTs-February 14th, the wife of Mr. Robert Roberts, Fron Terrace, Bala, of twins-boys. MARRIAGES. HUGHES-THOMPSON-February 9th, at Cilcaln Parish Church, by the Rev. J. Felix, vicar, Mr. William Henry Hughes, New Street, Mold, to Jane, second daughter of Mr. George Thompson, Garth, Cilcaln. JOlq]ZS- ELLIS -February 10th, at the Independent chapel, Bala. by the Rev. H. Gwion Jones, Bethel, assisted by the Rev. T. T. Phillips, B.D., Bala, Mr. Thomas Jones, Cwmonen, Bala, to Miss Elizabeth A. Eliis, Coedybedol, Bala. WILLIAMS—DA VIES—February 16th, at the Registrar's Office, Holywell, Mr. Joseph Charles Williams, Rhewl Fawr Farm, Llanasa, to Miss Mary Davies, 22, Abbey Street, Rhyl. DEATHS. Ev ANs-February 13th. at Milford Street, Mold. Catherine, wife of Mr. Thomas Evans, aged 60 years. GRIFFITH-February 7th, Mr. David, Griffith, Bryn Clochydd, Gwytherin, aged 81 years. HAYWARD-February 11th, at Garden Place, Mold, Florence, Infant daughter of Mr. John Hayward, aged 14 months. JONEs-February 11th, at Pentre Iaa, Gwespyr, Mr. William Jones, aged 76 years. JONES—February 13th, Mr. Kyffin Jones, Talgrwn Mawr, near Abergele. JONES—February 10th, Mr. Morris Jones, Glantegld, Danuwchllyn, aged 77 years. LEwIs-February 10th, Margaret, the beloved wife of Mr. David Lewis, Ty'nyceryg, Llldiardau, Bala, aged 81 years. PARRY-February 12th. Mrs. Jane Prrry, the wife of Mr. Thomas Parry, Blaenddol, Llanuwchllyn, aged 24 years. RICHARDS—February 16th, Mr. Edward Richards, Abram's Lane, Denbigh, aged about 70 years. The funeral will take place on Monday next, at Whit- church. ROBERTS—February 10th, at Liverpool, only child of Mr. Robert Thomas Roberts (son of Mr. Evan Roberts, Tryfan Isa, Llansannan), aged 6 months. ROBERTS—February 15th, at Geinas House, Bodfary, Mr. John Roberts, aged 77 years. No cards. WILLIAMS—February 11th, Griffith Morris, the beloved child of Mr. R. Williams, Colomendy Lodge, Corwen, aged 6 months.

WELSH MARKETS. DKSBIGH, February 15th.—The market was largely attended by farmers, as It was also the monthly fair. Quotations: Wheat, from 9s Od to 9s 3d; barley, 9s Od to 9s 3d; oats, 5s 6d per hobbet. Fresh butter, from Is 3d per 1%; small tubs, Is 2d; and large ditto, 10id per lb. Eggs, 14 for a Is. Fowls, from 3s to 4s 9d per couple Potatoes, from 5s Od to 6s Od per hobbet. Oatmeal, 2d per lb. LLANGEFNI, February 9th.-Oats, from 13s. 6d. to r: 14s. 6d. per quarter; potatoes, 2a. 3d. to 2s. 6d. per cwt.; fresh butter, Is 3d per lb; wool, 7d to nd per lb; fowls, 3s 6d to 3s 9d per couple; ducks, 3s 6d to 4s Od per couple. Eggs, 14 to 15 for a Is. Young pigs, 12s to 16s each; fat pigs, 311 per lb. RUTHIN, February 13th.-Prices were as follow:— Wheat, from 9s Od to 9s 6d per hobbet; barley, 8s Od to 10s Od; oats, 5s Od to 6s Od. Fresh butter, from Is 3d to Is 4d per lb; salt butter, Od to Os Od per lb fowls, 3s to 4s Od per couple. Ducks. 4s Od to 5s 6d. Eggs, from 12 to 13 for a Is. Bacon pigs, 3d per lb; porkers, 3id stores, 3Jd and sows, 21d per lb.

CATTLE MARKETS, AND FAIRS. BIRKENHEAD.—Agricultural Produce.-Feb. 14th. -Hay, old, 22 10s to £ 3 per ton; old clover, £3 to JS3 10s; wheat straw, 21 10s; ditto, oat, 21 10s; and manure, 2s to 4s per ton. LONDON.—Agricultural Prouce.-Feb.14th. -Good supplies, and very dull trade at the following prices —Good to prime hay, from 60s to 78s Od; inferior to fair hay, 408 to 55s; good to prime clover, 70s to 90s; Inferior tp fair ditto. 50s to 58; mixture and sainfoin, 50s to 80s: straw. 24s to ::Js per load. LIVERPOOL. Wholesale Vegetable Feb 15th.- PotatoesGiants, 28 2<1 to 2s 4d maiu crore, 2s 8d to 38 2d bruce, 28 4d to 2s 9 i per cwt. Turnips, 6d to lOd per dczen buri.-t)-s; ditto swedes, Is 4d to Is 6d tier cwt: carrots 2s 93 to 3s 6d per cwt. On- ions, E-i^lish, 6a 3d to 7s; d'tto. foreign, 48 6d to 5s 6d per ew t. LIVERPOOL -St. John's Mark-et.-February Loth Beef, 5d to 9d per lb; mutton, 6d to 9d veal. 7d to 9d; fresh pork, 6d to 8d per lb fresh butter, Is 2d to Is 4d per pound; ditto, salt. Is Od to Is 2d per Th: eggs, per 120, 8s lOd. DENBIGH, February 14th.-The supply of all classes of stock was very meagre on Tuesday. There were not any store cattle offered. Milch xows sold pretty well, at from 212 to £18 each. Biff made from old to 6d. per lb. Wethers, from 21s. to 25s. each; Welsh sheep and lambs, 26s.; and yearling sheep, from 15s. to 21s. each. SILFOBD, February 14th.-There was an Increase of 95 beasts at market, and a decrease of 155 sheep, com- pared with last week's supply. The stock at market numbered :-beasts, 2,596,; sheep, 7,184; calves, 142; and pigs, 88. The tendency of prices was against buyers, compared with last market. Quotations were as:follow :-Beef, from 5d to 6id; sheep, Sid to 81d; and calves, 4id to 8d per lb. Pigs, 7s 6d to 8s per 20 lbs. WREXHAM, February 13th. There was a larger supply of stock at the cattle market on Monday than last week, and the clearance was a good one, at satis. factory prices. Beef realised from 5d. to 6id. per lb.; mutton, 7d. to 8d.; and veal, 7id. to 8d. Dairy cows made up to 221 each, and rearing calves up to 52s. each. The demand for sheep was steady, while pigs sold very well. BIRMINGHAM, February 16th.—Fair supplies, and fair trade. Beef, from 4^4 to 6ld; for best Hereford- shire mutton, 6c1 to Sid; and veal, od tc 7|d per lb. Bacon pigs, from 7s 9d to 81j per 20 Ibs; porkets, 9s to lOa; and sows, 5s 9d to 6s per 20 lbs. LONDON, February 16th.-A moderate number of beasts on offer, consisting chiefly of fat bulls and rough cattle, for which trade ruled quite, but steady. Sheep in fair sap Fly, and trade was steady at late rates: 71st to 8st Down wethers quoted at 5s 6d to 5s 8d; 9st, 5s 4d: lOst half-breds, 5s to 5s 2d; list Hampshlres, 4s 10a to 5s; 12st Lincoltm, 4s 8d to 4s lOd per 8 lbs, sinking the offal. DUBLIN, February 16th.—Prime heifer and ox beef, from 54i1 to' 56s: secondary, 46s to 52s per cwt, Prime wether mutton, from 6id to 7d; ewe, 5d to 6d veal, 71<1 Hd to 8vjd; inferior, 4d to 6%d per lb. Lambs, 30s to 35s. each.

c RE t t a SUN fShsgjifrjjf Insurance Office. Sum Insured in 1897— OA. \LK £ 425,000,000. Fcr particulars, apply to the following Agents— Fcr particulars, apply to the following Agents- Bala-Mr. R. L. Jones, Mount Pleasant. Bangor—Mr. -lames Smith. Mr. Richard Hall. Barmouth—Mr. R. F. Anderson. Beaumaris-Mr. Frederick Geary. Carnai-von-Mr. William Hugh Owen. Conway—Mr. C- Droyer, Deganwy, Llandudno. Denbigh—Mr. J. H. Jones, Dolgelley—Mr. T. P. Jones Parry. Holyhead—Mr. Owen Hughes. Holywell-Mr. Robert Thomas. Llandudno—Mr. Edgar W. Riches. Uanfyllin-Nlr. Wiliiam A. Pughe. Llanidloes—Mr. Bennett Rowlands. Llangefni-Mr. William Thomas. Llangollen-Messrs. Minshull & Parry Jones, Llanrwst-Mr. E. Jones Owen. Mold-Messrs. Kelly, Keen & Co. Portmadog—Mr. J. Tobias, Solicitor. Rhos-on-Sea—Mr, P. J. Kent. I St. Asaph-Dlr. Llewelyn Lloyd. Welshpool-blr. D. Wall. Wrexham—Mr. Trevor G. Boscawen.

"4 WALES IN PARLIAMENT. No time was allowed to elapse by our Welsh members, before calling attention to the fact that the Quean's speech did not contain a promise of any special legislation for Wales. The subject was taken up, in one of his best speeches, by Mr. Herbert Lewis, the popular member for the Flint boroughs. Mr. Lewis, at the outset of his speech, alluded to Mr Balfour's argument in opposing a similar amendment when it was proposed last year. Mr. Balfour then said that the amendment was based on the fallacy that Wales received no benefit from legislation passed for Great Britain. Mr. Lewis, pointed out that this was a complete mis-conception of their argument and posi- tion. They in Wales did not say that Wales did not participate in the legislation passed for the whole of Great Britain. But they did say that much of that legislation, which might be acceptable to England, was neither asked for, nor needed in Wales, and that Wales was ripe for legislation which England would not accept. Wales asked to be exempted from legislation which it de- tested, and demanded a share of the legis- lation she had so repeatedly asked for. Mr. Lewis could not possibly put the mat- ter in a clearer manner. There are many Acts of Parliament which may be of some benefit to our Saxon neighbours, but which cannot in any way be of any service to Wales. On the other hand, we in Wales are ready for many things-some of them agreed upon by both political parties- which England cannot be induced to accept. A stronger plea for separate treatment could not possibly be made. Mr. Lewis went on to show that Wales had been treated separately both by Liberal and Conservative Governments in the past, because Wales had proved that she was ready for legislation. He mentioned the Welsh Sunday Closing Act passed by a Liberal Government, and the Intermediate Education Act, passed by a Conservative Government. And as Mr. Lewis pertinently pointed out, Sunday Closing was only a small part of the temperance question, and 'the Intermediate Education Act, only touched the fringe of a great question. Whether he meant it or not, Mr. Lewis made an excellent point in favour of end- ing or mending the House of Lords. He stated that the present Government's answer to all such demands as those he then made was, if you cannot get what you want, wait until another Government comes into power. It is not our business to promote temperance reform, land reform, or religious eqality.' This (Mr. Lewis said) was not a sufficient reply. If Conservative Govern- ments had not the will to carry out these reforms, Liberal Governments under the present constitution had not the power. It might be true, as Lord James of Hereford had said, that the House of Lords would not dare to stand in the way of a reform upon which the democracy of England had set their hearts. But the House of Lords did not care a rap about the democracy of Wales. Therefore, what hope was there for Wales even from a Liberal Government, if the House of Lords vetoed their Bills ? Mr. Lewis then went on to enumerate the questions upon which Wales demanded separate treatment. First of all he placed disestablishment. Then followed the ques- tion of elementary education, which was closely" aliied to the first. Temperance re- form was also in a riper state in Wales than in most other parts of the kingdom. •In Wales,' Mr. Lewis said, 'they had a country which knew her own mind on the subject, a country that offered herself as an experimenting ground for temperance re- form. If England was afraid to try it, let Wales have a chance.' He regretted that the Government, in the face of the report of the Royal Commission, had not thought fit to include a bill to amend the Sunday Closing Act, on the lines of the recommen- dations of that Commission, because this certainly was not a party question. The grievance of the Principality in the matter of private bill legislation was not forgotten. The Government have intima- ted that a bill relating to Scottish private bill legislation shall be introduced, but nothing was said about Wales. Yet in 1897, there were 23 private bills from Wales, and only 9 from Scotland. Surely the Welsh claim is stronger than the Scottish one, and why precedence should be given to the Scottish claim is inexplicable. Why not deal with both ? Naturally, Mr. Lewis did not forget the matter of the museum grants for Wales, but in addition to this, he instanced other pressing matters such as the pier and har- bour accommodation of the Principality, the question of re-afforestation, and the right of Wales to be represented on the Royal Standard, and on the coinage. Mr. Alfred Thomos who seconded, was perfectly right in saying that Wales suffered because of its good character. Because Welshmen were so tranquil, it had been taken for granted that they had no real grievances. Sir Mathew White Ridley was put up to reply on the part of the Govern- ment. On the whole he was friendly, but he was friendly because he was weak. He admitted that there were urgent matters of reform which Wales had a right to demand. He paid a tribute to the system of Welsh education, which he said, was ahead of even Scotland, and certainly of England. But Sir Matthew pointedly added, if they desired the Church question and the land question in 'Wales to be dealt, with, they must get another party to do it.' Of course, we must. The present Government will not legislate for anyone except their friends. Their friends are the landowners, the parsons, and the brewers, and all legisla- tion from this Government will be for the benefit of either one or the other of those classes. Amongst the others who spoke in this in- teresting debate were, Mr. Herbert Roberts, Mr. Tudor Howell-who as asual, was as unpatriotic as he could well venture to be —Mr. M'Kenna, Mr. Lloyd-George, Mr. Jasper Moore, and Sir Henry Campbell Bannerman, the newly elected leader of the Opposition. We must compliment Sir Henry on the very able speech he delivered, and on the true ring of Liberalism (that pervaded it. He seems to be waking up to his new duties, and discharging them with an ability which no one ever doubted, and with an energy which certainly many did not expect. The division was a surprise to both sides. The Government's majority was only fifty! One hundred and forty-four votes were re- corded in favour of Mr. Herbert Lewis' amendment, and only one hundred and ninety-four against. Surely Wales is gain- ing ground even in this most Conservative of Parliaments. We can with heart and soul congratulate our Welsh Liberal mem- bers on the undoubted influence they posses in the House of Commons, and we look with no hesitating eye, on the near fulfilment of the wishes of the country in some of the matters referred to at any rate.

WHERE EAST MEETS WEST. THE new condition of things in the far east, raises many important problems for this country. These developments are chiefly due to the break up of China and to the war between the United States and Spain. The result in both cases concerns British interests not a little, and this coun- try must shortly decide upon the part it will play in this altered state of affairs. Lord Charles Beresford, who expects to be back in Parliament early next month, ad- vocates an alliance between the United States, Germany, Great Britain, and Japan, to guarantee the integrity of China. He does not believe in spheres of influence,' and regards this policy as the only one that is likely to save the Chinese Empire from disruption, and to keep it open to the trade of all countries upon terms of equality. There is nothing new in this policy, which from the first when Russia secured Man- churia, was seen to be desirable for the prevention of further trouble. The only point about it is, is it possible There is little question that Japan would willingly enter into such an alliance with this coun- try, but the adherence of Germany and the United States is very doubtful. Imper- ialism in America is likely to be satisfied for a time with its acquisitions in the West Indies, and its troubles in the Philip- pines. It is true American interests in the Chinese trade are likely to become as great as our own, but in any case it may be con- fidently accepted that the United States will stop short of any formal alliance which might involve that country in vast Euro- pean complications. If Russia-content with things as they are would combine in a joint guarantee of the integrity of China, there would be an end to all serious danger in the far east. This, at least, might be proposed and considered, and why should the Czar refuse this step, if he hopes to secure any practical gcod for the world from tha forthcoming Peace Conference. As regards the war between Spain and America, one of the most important results for this country is its hastening of the completion of the Nicaragua Canal. Presi- dent McKinley has not only declared that its construction is imperatively necessary, but also asks congress to provide an all- American cable by way of Hawaii to the Philippines. This does not look as if the United States has any idea of giving them up. But if America, with these small pos- sessions, cannot afford to be dependent upon cables controlled by other countries, it is vastly more important that the British Em- pire should be in a similar state of inde- pendence. As things are, our communica- tions with South Africa and the east, could be easily interrupted. We have an all- British route to Halifax and across Canada to Vancouver. From there we want a cable to Hong Kong, New Zealand, and Australia, and then on to Singapore, Columbo, Mau- ritius, and Cape Town. From there it should go to St. Helena, Barbados, and Bermuda, where it would join the cable to Halifax. This would give us a complete circle of the world, and avoid the shallow seas of the Mediterranean, and the West Coast of Africa, where it would be com- paratively easy to fish up the submarine lines and cut them, The Nicaragua Canal is, at the least, a work of six or seven years. There are many complications still in the way, both of a financial and political character, but there is no doubt it will be finished early in the new century. There was originally some rivalry between the United States and Great Britain for the strategic positions on the Atlantic, and the Pacific, which would command any future water-way across the Isthmus. But under the Clayton-Bulwer Treaty of 1850, both countries agreed not to seek or exercise any exclusive control over the canal, such as President McKinley now declares to be essential for America. This must be a matter for arrangement with Lord Salis bury. Under the treaty this country gave up certain predominating advantages, and therefore any modification of the treaty, affecting our strategical position would have to be subject to an arrangement and compensation, or at least more considera tion than seems as yet to be regarded ne- cessary at Washington. The actual con- struction of the canal, beyond the work already done, is estimated to take six years, at a cost of from 25 to 30 millions sterling. The total distance is 170 miles, but of this the San Juan river can be utilised for 64 miles, and Lake Nicaragua will serve for another 56 miles. Unfortunately, the lake is 100 feet above sea level, thus necessita- ting three locks in the sections lying be- tween it and the ocean on either side. A further 20 miles will be provided by dam- ming small streams so as to form basins, thus leaving only about 30 miles to be actually excavated. This is considerably less than in the case of the Suez Canal, but the engineering difficulties across the central American Isthmus are of vastly greater magnitude.

Over two million of people are engaged in the grape culture in France alone. Daughter I love him. He is the light of my life.' Father: Well, that's all right, but I object to having my house lib up by him after mid night.'

President Faure, DEATH OF the bead of the PRESIDENT FAURE. French Republic, died at ten o'clock on Thursday evening, after three hours ill- ness. No particulars are yet to hand. He was 58 years of age, and had been presi- dent since 1895.

SLINGS AND ARROWS. [BY A YEOMAN OF THE GUARD]. The question raised by Mr. T. H. Ro- berts at the last meeting of the Ruthin Board of Guardians, was an important one, and I hope that an improvement will be the result of the discussion. Mr. Roberts alluded to the very great irregularity of the relig- ious services held in the house. It seems to me that both Nonconformists and Church- men are about equally at fault in the matter. Surely, the mere fact of men and women being so unfortunate as to have to seek refuge in a workhouse does not deprive them of their right to have the gospel preached unto them. Indeed, I venture to think that it is more important to preach the gospel to the class that can- not subscribe anything towards its neces- sary expenses, than to dance evangelical at- tendance continually upon the comparatively wealthy. Of course, only one side of the story has yet been told. There may be another side, and the clergymen and minis- ters may have a clear answer. But whether everybody is blameless or not, it is quite evident that the system which does not provide regular ministration to the poor, is at fault, and should at once be remedied. • • • • Denbigh people seem to have been exer- cised during the la-st few days over the question of where profession ends and trade begins? The question is not of vital im- portance, but it seems to have shaken the somewhat shallow foundation of Denbigh society.' I should like to have a public debate on the subject, and I have in my mind's eye, proper speakers to open on both sides. It is a somewhat delicate question, but luckily the fate of the town does not hang upon it. It was a foolish thing to raise the question at all. People have a perfect right to invite whomsoever they please to their parties, and even if they cannot do so without giving offence to some of the non-invited, that is not a public mat- ter. At the same time, this being the case, there was no need to emphasise the fact that a certain class were not to be invited. m • • » The promoters of the affair which has given cause for all this discussion, and not to a little heart-burning, state that it was a private function, and such undoubtedly it was. That being so, I fail to find any reason why it should be held at the Town Hall, free of charge. If a man cannot entertain in his own house, he generally borrows a house from a friend, or else hires rooms for the occasion. Public buildings are not generally given free of charge for such purposes. From a public point of view, this is the only question worth con- sidering. • • • • Apart from this little storm in a teapot, it is a fact attempts are often made to snub tradesmen and tradespeople. I need only refer to the Bowling Club. How many tradesmen are members of this 1 I know that there are one or two, but why should such a lovely ground as the Denbigh Bowl- ing Green be reserved for the benefit and pleasure of a few, most of whom are strangers? I am aware that there is no rule excluding tradesmen from this august body, but I also know that three black balls only will prevent a proposed member from being elected. I am not a tradesman, and I have no ambition to play bowls, there- fore I hope everybody will understand that this is not a personal matter. But there are respectable tradesmen-quite as res- pectable as any who are members-who would like to have a share in the pleasures of this pretty spot, but are debarred by the black-balling propensities of a few. In other things also the same spirit is manifest, and the tradesmen of the town are insulted and snubbed by a few who, according to any prescriptive right or law of precedence that I know of, are not one whit better, if as good, as those they presume to look down upon.

DENBIGH. ,r" Shorthand.-T. Gwilym Williams, son of Mr. E. R. Williams, weaver, Henllan street, who is one of the youngest pupils at the shorthand class, held at the technical school, has, this week taken Pitman's certificate (elementary) in that art. Rent Audit— Mr. lJrice of the firm of Messrs. Kendal, Price and Francis, London attended at the Crown Hotel, on Wednes- day, to receive the rents from the tenants of Lord Newborough's estate in Llanfair- talhaiarn and Llansannan. The usual din- ner was provided, Mr. and Mrs. Hughes giv- ing great satisfaction with the catering. The North Wales Fanciers Association.- Mr. William James, manager of the North and South Wales Bank, has consented to act as Honorary Secretary for the above society for Denbigh and District, and will be pleased to receive subscriptions to its funds. A meeting of the society will be held at Rhyl, next Tuesday,, at 3 15 p.m. when all interested are cordially invited to attend. Vron Chapel Literary Society.-At the ordinary meeting of this society on Monday night, under the presidency of Mr. Ellis Davies, a debate took place upon the sub- ject Should Welsh be compulsorily taught in Elem9ntary Schools.' Mr. E. Mills opened on the affimative, and Mr. J. J. Evans on the negative. Several members present expressed themselves desirous of taking part in the debate, and it was adjourned on the motion of Mr. Hooson, Colomendy, who will re-open it at the next meeting, on Monday next. Mr. J. Newton Davies.-We feel sure that many of our readers will be glad to learn that our fellow-townsman, Mr. J. Newton Davies (son of Councillor D. H. Davies), who is now at the University College of North Wales, Bangor, is proving himself useful among the young people of St. Paul's Wes- leyan chapel. On Monday evening last, he read a very able and interesting paper on David Hill, Missionary to China.' Very avourable comments on the paper were, I given by Rev. A Lloyd Hughes, presideiJt., Messrs. R. C. Williams (vice president), R. Lake Jones, D. Williams, W. LJo:, d Jones, and H. Davies. On Sunday ever.in; Mr. Davies is to occupy the pulpit in the same chapel. University of London Matriculation Ex 1 amination.-The pass list of the London Matriculation Examination held in January 1 was published on Thursday the 16th instant. In the first division occurs the name of Elizabeth A. G. Edwards, pupil at the Man- chester High School for Girls, and daughter of Mr. S. Edwards, M.A., late headmaster of theDenbigh Grammar and County School:- Also in the second division, the name of Richard Henry Jones, late resident assist ant master at the Denbigh County School. There were over 1,400 candidates and only 563 or about 40 per cent were successful.

BOROUGH POLICE COURT. FRIDAY.—Before Mr. J. Harrison Jones (in the chair) and Mr. William Mellard. LICENSING PROSECUTION. Robert Williams and William Williams, of Henllan, were summoned by P.C. John Evans, for being on licensed premises during prohi- bited hours. Mr. A. O. Evans appeared on behalf of the defendants, and pleaded not guilty. P.C. Evans said that about 11 30 p.m. on Saturday the 4th inst., he visited the Cross Keys, Henllan, and found the landlady, and a young woman named Mary Harriet Williams, standing by the bar. The landlady had a half gallon jug full of beer in her hand. In the small kitchen he found the defendants with a half pint glass half full of beer on the table. He told them they had no business to be there, when the landlady said they were relations. He saw them leaving the premises at 1 a.m. on the following morning. Cross-examined by Mr. Evans, witness said he was not aware that the sister of the defen- dants was an occasional servant of the licensee, but he could not deny that that was a fact. He saw no money pass in the house. He did not see a man creating a disturbance outside. He saw a person of the name of John Jonas, but he was not creating the disturbance referred to. This being the case for the prosecution, Mr. Evans then addressed the bench for the defence. He said that the case might appear a little sus- picious on the face of it, but he could prove that the men had a perfect right to be on the premises. They were there as guests of the landlady, and it was quite competent for the licensee to have friends in the house, even after 11 o'clock, if they were there for bona fide pur- poses, and ib would be a very great hardship in- deed,'if publicans were nob allowed to entertain friends in their houses like other people. Pro- ceeding, Mr. Evans quoted from Stone's Jus- tice Manual and Pattison on the Licensing Laws in support of his contention, and pointed out that it had not even been suggested by the policeman that he saw any money pass. It was for the defendauts to prove that they were in the house on bona fide purposes, and that they could do conclusively. It was no doubt a proper case for the policeman to bring forward, but in view of the evidence which he would produce, he submitted that it was a case which the bench should dismiss. Briefly the facts were as follows—Mary Harriet Williams was a sister to the defendants, and was in the habit of assisting the landlady of the Cross Keys, almost constantly, and especially so on Satur- day nights. On the night in question, the men were proceeding to leave the house at 11 o'clock, when they were asked by the landlady to wait their sister, and to remain for supper. Wil- liam Williams had only arrived in the house about five minutes to eleven, and called for a glass of beer. Owing to a little disturbance, he had no opportunity to drink it, and it was this glass partly filled with beer that the policeman saw when he came into the house. There was a very close connection between the parties, and under the circumstances, it was but natural that the landlady should nave asked them to remain. Independent witnesses would be called to prove that the landlady had asked the men to remain for supper, and escort their lister home, and as no sale took place, and no money passed, he submitted that the case should lie dismissed. The Maariair.it•>'>' Clerk poirined out for being Oll LC:lbe,j prull¡e ,;uring problbl ted bours Mr. Evans replied that the same law pplied to both. The men were t-tiuitled to friends, and for bona fide purposes. Mrs. Evans, the licensee ot the Cross Key8' was then called and corroborated the made by Mr. Evans. She denied that drinks had been supplied to the men 11 o'clock, and no money whatever had They were there simply at her invitation wait their sister home, and to partake of sUP' per. The evidence of the constable as to the half gallon jug was not true, as she had not 6 jug of that measure in the house. To Mr. Mellaril I received no money at all after 11 o'clock. Mary Harriet Williams said she was in the constant habit of assisting the landlady on Saturday nights, but she received no pay frool the landlady. She was in the employ of her brother who sent her to assis6 at the Cross Keys. The two defendants were also called, and gae evidence to the same effect. Isaac Jones and Robert Parry said they werl in the house up to 11 o'clock on the night 111 question, and heard the landlady asking bbe two defendants to remain for supper, and for their sister. The Court was then cleared, and on the reo admission ot the public, the chairman said the bench had given very careful consideration to the case, and had decided that there had been no breach of the law. The case would there' fore be dismissed. At the same time, they wished to say that the police were justified taking proceedings. As the defendants so near, to remain on the premises even as guests, was nearly tantamount to a breach f the law. Publicans should not encourage their customers to remain on their premises at so late an hour, as that was conducive to repeated proceedings being taken on the part of police, whilst the publicans themselves their licenses in jeopardy. He hoped cases of this kind would not come before thelo again. DISPUTE BETWEEN COUSINS. Edward Moses Jones, Portland Place, ap plied to the court for an order to bind over Ed. ward Jones, of Abram'j Lane, Denbigh, to' keep the peace towards him. On the case being called, the Clerk asked the parties whether they could not settle the matter. E. M. Jones: No, sir, we cannot. The Clerk said that the complaint was, on the 30th of January, Edward Jones did lawfully threaten to assault E. M. Jones, that the latter being afraid that such an sault would be committed, asked that the d0* fendanb be bound over to keep the peace. Defendant, who was rather excited, pointing to complainant, If he will come throngh his life without-- The Chairman That is not the question, have nothing to do with that. Defendant: I only said a few words, an that is all the threat. The Chairman said he did not know whether the parties wished to proceed in the matter, but he should like to know whether they were not disposed to come to some terms. The magistrates were quite prepared to judge the question according to law. At the same tilget he understood that there was some misi*nde'' standing between the parties and it would well if they could come voluntarily to settlement. The Magistrates' Clerk: They came to W office yesterday, and I did my very best to set- tle the case, but without success. Complainant: I should like to give evidellOO I sir. I offered to shake hands with him yestef day, but he refused. Defendant: Yes, I will never shake haJls with you. Complainant then made a statement t0, > effect that on the 30th of January, defendan came to his shop, and knocked the door his fist. He asked whether he should ha* permission to see his (complainant's) brothel. In reply to that he (complainant) said that the only thing he would do in the matter was, ask defendant to go home quietly, or he send for the police. Defendant then said to him, You have scandalised me by putting JIIe in the County Court.' Defendant: That's immaterial. Complainant proceeding, said the defendallt then made use of these words, I shall go to the court, and tell the Judge that you are a regain scamp, a rogue, and a thief.' I asked again whether he was willing to go home, he said, 'I don't care a d-for the police- Witness proceeding said, The only thing, worships, he has against me is, because I Pu him in the County Court. I have done *°y best for him all these years. The Chairman Has he threatened you? Complainant: Yes, he threatened to me to pieces last Monday in Panton Ha"* When he is sober, he is all right, but when In drink I am afraid of him. Even yesterday be put his fist in my mouth and said, 'You halo done what you could for me, do more if YOO ¡ can, and I shall pay you.' r Defendant: Shame, shame.' At this junctare» Mr. Rutter who was in the body of the called defendant to him, and spoke to him. conversation between them was not audible a the reporters' table, but defendant came back saying, 'Yes, it is false.' Defendant to Complainant On Monday night, did I say anything to you but thIS: You deserve the same thing as your brother* Complainant: Yes, you said you would pul: me to pieces, and you then went to your pocke" as if searching for 5 our knife. < Defendant, excitedly It's a lie, and morei x said nothing to you when we were leaving fjf, Parry Jones's office. Complainant Yes, you said to me, have done what you can for me, do more if can, and I shall pay you,' and then you ptlt your fist in my mouth. I Defendant: It is not true, and more, did not say on Monday night only this much, I yø1J deserve having a clout the same as yout brother.' Compiainant: No. Defendant Well it's useless for me to 8os any more questions. Complainant said he had t^?o witnesses, bat he did not intend to call them. Defendant then made a statement to the i°K lowing effect, that the complainant him of calling him a scamp, and a thief, that he did nothing of the kind. On previous day they went to Mr. Parry JoPs office, so that he could use a wise discretion settling the matter besween them. As far 8,9 1 he was concerned, he did all that he could | bring about that settlement. As for hands with complainant, he did not feel to do it, as it would be simply hypocrisy 00 his part. He did not want anything to do Wibb the fLan. He did tell him that he had done W very worst for him. After being at Mr. Parry Jones' office, he went first of all to his and then went home, and actually found to complainant at his mother's house aggravation the old lady. If it had not been for his mouber who ordered complainant out, he would hS". bundled him into the street himself. CoJII plainant and his brother would have to stop aggravating him in this manner. U •• The Chairman to Complainant: Are yO ? afraid of him ? Complainant: I am. Mr. ivlellard to Defendant: Are you afraid of him? Defendant: No, 1 am not. 1 The Chairman: You will have to be boUn f over mutually to keep the peace in the sum 0 £10 for a period of six months, each one to pa.1 costs. Defendant I don't think it would be# for me to mention the cause of this &isPu here, but I sha.ll bring it before another eoXl^t' { It was then pointed out that as defendan was not at.ai'i of the complainant, that » » latt<-r bhiiul.i ti'M, be bound over to keep peace, ami aiter a brief discussion the hen decided to bind the defendant only over, in sum of £ 10, and ordered him to pay to the plainant the sum of 5a. which the latter n deposited in court. 4: