The North Wales Times

THE THE .1 NATIONAL SOCIETY FOR THE I PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO CHILDREN. MEETING AT THE TOWN HALL. A meeting of the members and supporters of the Denbigh Branch of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children was held at the Town Hall on Thursday afternoon, far the purpose of hearing an address by the Rev. Benjamin Waugh, London, director and secretary of the Society, on the work of the Society. Colonel Heaton presided, and amongst those present were Mr. E. O. V. Lloyd, Rhag- gatt; Mr. T. Gold Edwards and Miss Gold Ed. wards; Mr. T. J. Williams and Mrs. Williams; the Rector (Rev. D. Davies); the Rev. E. J. Davies (senior curate); Miss Hughes, of Ystrad; Mr. John Davies, solicitor; Mrs. J. P. Lewis Miss Griffith, Plas Pigott; Miss Foulkes, St. Asaph; Mrs. Dr. Griffith Williams Roberts, &c. The President, in his opening address, said he was extremely gratified to see, on such a short notice, such a large and representative assem- bly. The work of the Society was one with which those present were as cognisant as him- self, and possibly more so, and he did not think that they could do otherwise than support, to the best of their ability, this excellent Society (applause). It was not only the brute who ac. tively inflicted cruelty on his child that they wished to restrain, but also those whom, by neg- lect, weakened the mental faculties and bodily energy of their children, thereby destroying the future value of their children (applause). Before coming into the meeting, he asked Mr. Waugh to give him a few tips as to what to and as to the style of chairman he wished nim to be. Mr. Waugh said there were two styles of chairmen—the long winded and the short winded. It was the iatter style of chair- man that he wished to be—(laughter)—and he would therefore at once call Mr. Waugh to ad the meeting (applause). Jjr- Waugh, at the beginning of a lengthy i pealing with the work of the Society a its different aspects, and dwelling upon its p eseut eminetly satisfactory position, thanked Colonel Heaton and Mr. Foulkes-Roberts for affording him an opportunity of speaking upon tr is subject, and he also thanked the Commit- tee of this Branch for the very great courtesy shown to him personally, and the great loyalty shown towards the Society. Mr. Waugh pro- ceeded to say that he was glad to take the blame for the misunderstanding which had arisen out of his letter of two years ago. It could not have arisen, had he not written so briefly. He took for granted that the principle of the Society was understood. That principle would have made clear what he said, but he apologised for not having been fuller and more explicit. He took the blame to himself. A sympathetic reference was made by the speaker to the sudden death of Lord Herchell, whom, the speaker said, had rendered great service to the Society, and assisted it in clear- ing its national name from calumnies aimed against it many years ngo. In concluding an excellent address, Mr. Waugh said he was very glad that the Society had, in Mr. Foulkes-Ro- berts, such an energetic and capable secretary (applause). The Rector proposed the following resolu- tion :That having heard of the work of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children throughout the land, this meeting heartily commends the Society to the support of the humane and patriotic inhabitants of this district. It was a Society that appealed not to any political or sectarian class ot people, but appealed with irresistible force to every human being who had a head and heart for sympathy and compassion.' Mr. Lloyd seconded, and referred to the case of cruelty heard at the Ruthin Assizes this week, which indicated to him that in sp,te of the work done by the Society, there was a great amount of cruelty going on in the coun- try. The President, before putting the resolution, to the meeting, said he was much struck in looking over the list of subscribers to the Society to see that so many of the collectors go into the great trouble of collecting pence (ap- lause), and lie sincerely hoped that they would still go on and persevere with the work in this respect. The motion was then carried. On the motion of Mr. John Davies, seconded by Mr. T. J. Williams, a hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Col. Heaton for presiding.

ST. ASAPH. ORDINATIONS. At a general ordination held by the Bishop of St. Asaph in his Cathedral Church on Sunday, the following gentlemen were or- dained:— DEACONS. William Samuel Probert, B.A., Keble Col- lege, Oxford, and St. Michael's College, Aberdare William Aeron Davies, literate Hugh Scott Chigwel], B.A., London Univer- sity Morgan Evans Alban, B.A., St. David's College, Lampeter; John Edward Williams, B.A. (St. David's College, Lampeter), and Thomas William Griffiths, B.A. (St. David's College, Lampeter), by letters dimissory from the Bishop of Bangor. PRIESTS. David Felix, St. David's College, Lam- peter; Thomas Evans Timothy, B.A., St. David's College, Lampeter; Thomas Dale Jones, L.D., St. David's College, Lampeter; William Bea'van, Queen's College, Birming ham John Davies (Bangor School of Di- vinity), Thomas Jones, B.A. (St. David's College, Lampeter), and Henry Richard Hughes, B.A. (Hatfield Hall, Durham Uni- versity), by letters dimissory from the Bishop of Bangor. His lordship afterwards licensed the Rev. William Samuel Probert to the curacy of Hope; the Rev. William Aeron Davies to the curacy of Bistre; the Rev. Hugh Scott Chigweli to the curacy of Wrexham and the Rev. Morgan Evans Alban to the curacy of Brymbo. The Gospel was read by Mr. Morgan Evans'Alban. The sermon was'preached by the Bishop of Bangor, from St. Matthew, 5th chap., 13 verse. THE DEAN OF ST. ASAPH. The venerable Shadrach Pryce, Arch- deacon of Carmarthen, and vicar of Golden Grove, has been offered and has accepted the deanery of St. Asapb, vacant by the ap- pointment of Dean Watkin Williams to the bishopric of Bangor. The archdeacon was for some time Her Majesty's Inspector of Schools for South Wales, and has for many years been an intimate friend of the present Bishop of St. Asaph.

THE EISTEDDVOD. The annual eisteddvod of the Independents was held on Thursday, March 2nd, at the National Schools. The first meeting com- menced at 1.45 p.m., under the conductorship of the Rev. Morgan Davies. The following were the awards For recitinc, I The old arm chair '-6 com- t, peted. Best, Master Irving Tomkinson, Ches- ter Street; and an additional prize to Master Henry Williams, Manchester. Stanza on The Tongue'—6 competitors, John Bright and Caradog being declared equal. The former did not answer to his name, while the latter turned out to be a Mr. E. Clwydfryn Davies. Idyll, in-the North Wales dialect, out of 4, the Rev. W. Glyn Williams, University, Ban- gor (formerly of Tanybryn, Cefn), was declared the winner. Tenor solo competition, Hen wlad fy ngenedigaeth,' Mr. J. Peris Jones, Llanberis. Challenge solo by those under 18 years of age; best, Miss Laura Evans, Henllan. Essay, David and Jonathan;' winner. Mas- ter Humphrey Parry Williams, Chester Street, St. Asaph. Mr. J. Herbert Lewis, M.P., at this point of the proceedings, arrived, and delivered an ad- dress, and promised to be present at the evening meeting. Bass solo competition, Y Fellten,' Mr. R. Meirion Jones, Birkenhead. For the best translation into English, 9 com- peted, lowest in merit being worthy of the prize; best, Mr. D. J. Williams, Bethesda. The Henllan party, under the conductorship of Mr. Thomas JoDeq, was declared to be well worthy of the prize for rendering 'Blodeuyn olaf.' The evening meeting was conducted bv Huwco Penmaen. Select is on the harp by Miss Minnie Hughes, ALufgele, being given first. Col. Howard, J.P., C.C., delivered a stiring address. The conductor recitiiiQ stanzas com- plimentary of the president. Duett competition, 'The harp and vial,' Messrs. Meirion Jones, Birkenhea and J. Peris Jones, Llanberis, were declared worthy of the prize. Adjudication on the Ode, all 4 complimented, 'Merch Anian,' the winner was declared to be- Miss Davies, Rhiw, Llansannan. Challenge solo for ladies, the prize being a richly decorated tea service of 40 pieces, given by Mr. S. D. Thomas, china shop, 9 competed. Best, Miss Williams, Bethel, Carnarvon. Recitation competition, any piece of the com- petitors choice, winner, Master Henry Wil. liams, Manchester. Address by Mr. Herbert Lewis, M.P. Male Voice Competition, the following choirs contested— Gwynfaen Male Voice Choir (Old .Colwyn). Bro Meircliion Male Voice Choir, (Henllan); Gele Male Voice Choir (Abergele). Winner, Abergele choir, conducted by Mr. William Jones. Recitation competition,' Disgyniad ar Sinai,' winner, Mr. Thomas Roberts, Mostyn Isa, Llansannan. Soprano solo competition, 'The heavenly rest,' Miss Minnie Williams, Rpsslyn, Dyserth. Challenge solo for gentlemen, prize silver cup, Mr. Peris Jones, Llanberis. Selections on the harp by Mies Minnie Hughes, Abergele.

NANTGLYN. SCHOOL BOARD. THE ordinary meeting of the board was held on Monday evening. Mr. Ebenezer Evans pre- sided over the first portion of the evening, in the absence of the chairman (the Rev. D. D. Richards), who subsequently entered the room, and took the chair. The other members present were Messrs. John Roberts, Isaac Jones, the Rev. Lewis Williams, and the clerk (Rev. T. E. Williams). THE CONTROVERSY ABOUT THE SCHOOL PREMISES. THE BOARD VICTORIOUS. The Clerk produced a form of transfer of the School buildings from the present trustee to the board, which had been sent down by the Education Department. In this form the Department agreed to the transfer on the terms proposed by the board, which, up to the present, had been refused by the Rector. These terms were:—'A lease of 10 years on the School buildings. All money expended upon the premises to be refunded in case the trustee desired re-possession of the School, and that the board should have centrol of the pre- mises during all week days up to six o'clock, and for three evenings a week absolute. The clerk explained that in this form the Education Department bad left a blank, to fill in the evenings ot the week upon which the board desired to have absolute control of the School, and also had expressed their desire to have two new managers added to the Rector, he being at present the sole trustee. He (the clerk) sag gested that the evenings upon which the board take control of the School should be Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and those days were agreed to. The Chairman (Mr. Richards) said he ob- served that the Rector had not yet signed the form of transfer. The Clerk: No, he has had no opportunity of doing so yet; but when it is signed by the board, as one party, I shall send it immediately to the Rector, so that he can affix his signature. The transfer then will be complete. Are the board willing now that I should sign this form on your behalf? Mr. John Roberts By all means. It contains everything that we asked for. Mr. E. Evans: I should like to know what the Rector says in his letter to the Department, as a result of our deliberation at the last meet. Ing. The Clerk I had better read to you first a letter which I have received from the Depart- ment, which is as follows:— 'EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, WHITEHALL, February 182/i, 1899. SIR, Adverting to your letter dated the 6th instant, I am directed to state that my Lords informed the Rev. Owen Jones that the managers of the above School have consented to execute a transfer to the board for a period of 10 years certain. My Lords hope that no time will be lost in completing the transfer according- ly. (Signed,) W. M. TOCKEK.' The Clerk, proceeding, said that after the last meeting of the board he had sent the following letter to the Rector:— PENIEL, DENBIGH, January 31 st, 1899. REV. SIR, At the meeting of the board, last evening, your answer to my last proposal as to terms of tranfer was read. Several members felt that your answer being so short and independent was nothing less than an insult to the board. You knew, or at least it was quite possible for you to know, that the board had been corresponding with the Education Department- and where else should they appeal to in the present case 2 Surely the education of the parish of Nantglyn ought to get more sympathy from you than what was revealed in your manner of answering the board, when they were anxious to bring the present difficulty to an end, so that they can go forward, either to prepare the present building to make it efficient, or to erect new bnildings. All the actions of the board are carried on with the educational benefits of the district in view, and we hope that you will show in future more sym- pathy with this most important question in your parish. I am directed to write this letter to you as a protest against your last short and indifferent answer. (Signed.) T. E. WILLIAMS.' Mr. John Roberts: Did you receive any reply to that letter ? The Clerk: No. Mr. E. Evans said he felt much pleased that this unfortunate controversy had, at last, been settled, although that result had not been brought about without much labour and anxiety on the part of the board. The clerk had taken infinite pains in the matter; and not only him, but all other members of the board. And it could not be less than a matter for general congratulation when the Rector had, at last, been brought to accept the terms proposed to him, and his predecessor, since this difficulty had arisen. These terms were most reasonable, and should have, been accepted by the Rector in the first instance (hear, hear). The controversy had created the greatest interest possible in educational circles throughout the country, and had been dealt with in several of the lead- ing newspapers of the country, many of which urged the board to withstand this latest exam. ple of Clerical and Episcopal tyranny. Almost the only exception was the Llan, a small, in. significant, an uninffiuential sheet published by the Church party. Now, their victory was e,oinplete., This was not the first effort made to convert the School of Nantglyn into a Church institution. Many years ago, the school was started as a National School, free from any sectarian control. It was built almost entirely at the cost of the farmers of the neighbour- hood, who carted materials towards it free of charge. The Rector at that time was the Rev. E, Wood Edwards, brother to the present Bishop of St. Asiph; and he determined to convert the School into a Church institution, where the Catechism would be taught; but the worthy Rector reckoned without the host of staunch Liberals who resided at Nantgljn. After the conversion of the School, the number of children attending it dwindled down to seven, and this compelled the managers to re- vert to the old system of carrying on the school. At that time, two dozen children walked to Denbigh every day, rather than attend the Nantglyn School. Therefore, the present victory is not the first one gained by the supporters of free and unsectarian educa- tion in Nantglyn; and he was glad to find that the Nonconformists of the neighbourhood were still adhering to their former principles (hear, hear). Mr. John Roberts: Undoubtedly, Mr. Wil- liams, our late Rector fought this matter out according to the light that was in him (laugh- ter). He failed in his object. Now, I should like us to let bye gone be bye gones, and deter- mine to carry on the school in the best interests of education (hear, hear). Mr. Isaac Jones seconded the motion in favour of signing the lease: and the clerk, accordingly, did so. THE VACANT SEAT. The board then proceeded to fill the vacancy on the board caused by the disqualification of the Rev. D. Evans, the late Rector, owing to his not having atten- ded the board meetings for a period of six months. The Clerk said he felt there were already a sufficient number of ministers and clergy on the board, and that it would, perhaps, be quite as well to appoint a farmer to the vacant seat. Mr. John Roberts said he felt inclined, notwith- standing what had taken place, to favour the election of the Rev, Owen Jones, the present Rector. Let the board act graciously in the matter, and not do any- thing in a vindictive spirit. Now, after gaining such a magnificent victory, they could afford to treat their opponents in a liberal manner. If the Rev. Mr. Jones were placed on the board as the representative of the Church of England, perhaps he would. in future, co- operate heartily with the board. Personally, he thought that the country at large wouldflook upon the appointment with approval. Let them deal with this question in the spirit of the New Testament. The Clerk We have done that ever since this con- troversy arose. It was not of our seekn3. The Chairman Certainly not. We have treated the Rector fairly throughout the controversy. The Clerk I don't think any thanks are due to the Rector for granting us a ten years lease. Obviously, he has done it against his will. Mr. John Roberts We all know that this difficulty was created by the action of the former Rector; but I am quite willing to admit this, that he was compelled to take the action he did. Possibly, he did not take It of his own free will, If we knew hls personal feelings In the matter. The Clerk: Why didn't he let us kaow what his personal feelings were then ? Mr. John Roberts Perhaps he dare not have done it. We can partly guess that there were somebody behind him in the action he took, and that he could not help it. The Clerk We invited Mr. Jones to the board once; but he refused, and he might do so again. The Chairman said the question they had to con- sider was, the effect Mr. Jones' election would have on those throughout the country who had followed the discussions of the difficulty which had just been re moved. Mr. John Roberts It would shew them that we wish to act in a liberal spirit; and that, certainly, should commend itself to all. The Chairman If that will be the effect of it, I am quite willing to acquiese. Mr. E Evans agreed with the view taken by Mr. John Roberts, and that it would be better to forget and to forgive. The Chairman But it is most difficult to do so. The Clerk If we elect him, I am afraid that con- traversial matters "ill again crop up. Mr. John Roberts I hope not. We ought to have a thorough understanding now, and secure the co- operation of all parties. Mr. Isaac Jones was of opinion that a farmer should be elected. The board had already experienced enough trouble with the late Rector and the present Rector, at first, refused all approaches on behalf of the board to settle the question. If that had not been so, he would have supported his nomination. Mr. John Roberts: But we do not know all the details of this question, nor do we realise the position In which the present Rector was placed as regards this matter. The Clerk If we have suffered from the influences of the St. Asaph Policy in the past, we wili most like- ly do so in some form in the future. Mr. John Roberts We shall not be troubled with this question agun for ten years at least. Ultimately, it was decided to adjourn the filling of the vacancy for a month.

MOLD. '¿- HOCKEY. The local team are making headway. On Saturday last, they.entertained the Hoole men on the recreation ground. A pleasant game was the result of the engagement, the home. sters winning by seven goals to one. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. A committee meeting of the above was held on Friday evening last, under the presidency of Major Webber. The balance sheet for the show in 1898 was read, shewing a deficiency of abont jEll, and passed. It was decided that the show for 1899 be held on Thursday, the 27th of July, 1899, on the grounds adjoining the resi- dence of Dr. Edward Williams, Plasyndre and a vote of thanks was passed to that gentleman for his generosity in placing such a splendid enclosure at the disposal of the society. As the society is in debt, it was decided to discontinue the show of dogs and poultry. Mention was made that arrangements might be come to with regard to the latter, to hold a show to be managed by a separate committee, and on a different date to the Horticultural show. But, in consequence of the amount owing by the society, the meeting did not feel encouraged to, continue the dog and poultry this year. Major Webber was appointed chairman of the com- mittee; Messrs. Webber and Wright, joint hon. treasurers and Mr. Lewis E. Lloyd, hon. sec. The schedule of prizes was revised, and a committee appointed.

PETTY SESSIONS. Monday.—Before Messrs. P. B. Davies-Cooke (chairman) and T. D. Cooke. NEW MAGISTRATE. The Lord-Lieutenant of tie county, Mr. H. R. Hughes, was present, when his son, Mr. H. 23. L. Hughes,, qualified as a Justice of the Peace for the county, and afterwards took his seat on the bench to adjudicate in the proceedings. LICENSING. Temporary authority tc sell at the Leeswood Arms was granted to Mrs. Powell, as was also a similar application made by Frank Hughes for the Black Lion Inn, Buckley. PUBLIC HOUSE ALTERATIONS. Mr. Thomas Roberts, builder, attended be- fore the bench and produced plans showing al- terations to be made at the Swan Inn, Gwern- y-mynydd, which were approved. SATURDAY NIGHT SQUABBLE. P.C. Nelson summoned Edwin Hewitt, collier, Buckley, for a breach of the peace on the 18th of February. The officer deposed to seeing the defendant at 9.30 p.m. fighting with a man named John Bennett in King Street. ,P.C. Gabriel proved cautioning the defendant previously. For the defence, William Duckworth, of Buckley, said it was caused through Bennett following and threatening defendant. The case was dismissed, and costs remitted. DOMESTIC INFELICITY. A respectable looking yonng married woman named Martha Alice Williams, of Park View, Chester, who was represented by Mr. H. Good- man Roberts, summoned her husband, Llew- elyn Williams, a baker employed in Mold, for cruelty, and also applied for a separation order. Mr. G. H. Simon appeared for the defendant. The complainant swore her husband had per- sistently assaulted her, and in consequence of his treatment she was obliged to leave him. The defendant admitted the charge. The bench granted a separation, and ordered the defendant to pay his wife 8s. 6d. a week, and also for the complainant to have the cus- tody of the one child of the marriage.

FOOTBALL. The representatives of the Buckley Town F.C. paid the local team a visit on Saturday last in a Wirral League Fixture. The event was looked forward to with exceptional amount of interest, and the enclosure was surraunded by about 500 persons, a great number of whom were Buckleyites. The teams were under the charge of referee Darry, Flint. North; the home skipper, winning the toss, chose to play down the slight incline, and operations were commenced at 3.45. Mold were first to advance, the play being made by the left wing, the pair however were attentively accommodated, and an incursion was quickly made to the Mold goal without result. Again the homesters were busy, Rogers in centre tricking his huge op- ponent, and passing to D. M. Jones, who trans- ferred to his partner. A nice run followed, but Welch centred wretchedly, and a good oppor- tunity was lost. From the goal kick, the visit- ing forwards made headway on the left, Brown doing nice work, Thomas was busily in attend- ance, but relief came from Eaton intervening, and with a punt play was transferred to the other end. Even play followed, both goals being attacked, although the homesters, who were exerting themselves, were having the bulk of the play. Just before half-time arrived, an unfortunate accident took place in a collision whereby Carrol, one of the visiting forwards, broke his fore arm. Dr. Ed. Williams, who was on the ground, was quickly in attendance, and attended to the player, and did everything that could be done for his patient. The acci- dent appeared to somewhat damp the ardour of both teams, and half-time was called with a clean sheet. The second half opened briskly, the homesters immediately threatening danger, so much so that the visiting backs could not keep them at bay. By a series of throws in the homesters got well in the Buckley quarters, and Welch had a pop at goal, which was cleared away, and the Town went down the field, North and Eaton showing them the rightabout. Some interest- ing, though unproductive, play was next wit- nessed on the Mold left, Davies and J. R. Jones fairly outmanosurringj Siheir opponents much to the delight of a section of the specta- tors. Getting well into goa1, S^ies shot with terrific force, the baU sty.i, the upright. Play became very excitin", try as they would the homesters could ■. ak through. At last, from pretty play by the left wing, J. R. Jones, from a capital screw shot, scored, amidst an outburst of cheers, This stimulated the Moldavians, and Rogers forced his way through, and when almost under the crossbar I he kicked over. He was soon again stacking, and passing to the right, the ball hovered in the gaol, so much so that one of the backs ap- plied his hand to the ball, and the referee gave a penalty. This was obligingly taken by the home captain, and promptly planted in the net, Kelly, the visiting custodian, floundering head- long on the ground. The bulk of the play was afterwards made by the homesters, the visitors playing like a beaten team, but there was no additional score, and the homesters won a good game by two goals to none. It was a very good game, though not as fast as the one with the Vies on the previous Satur day. Still, the visitors are a very evenly balanced lot; and with the ground in rather a murkier condition, this told against the home sters, who are on the 'light' side of weight. The Mold forwards combined very well, in fact the left wing too much so, the fine work which they displayed no doubt is very pretty and entertaining, but they would do well to know that it might be more agreeably entertaining if it were indulged in after a few goals have been piled on, it is not the work that leads up to goals, and these are what is wanted. This also means idlenes3 on the part of the other players who go on to the field to play, and not be as mere spectators. What opportunities were given to the right were well taken and handled. The centre showed improvement, whilst the half-backs and backs were as safe, and untiring as ever. The visitors played a good game, but they were well beaten, and they and their supporters appeared to take their downfall with good grace. The Mold team was as follows:—Goal, T. Jones; backs, Eaton and North (captain); half- backs, R. Thomas, J. O. Jones, and E. Simon; forwards, P. Davies and J. R. Jones (left wing), Rogers (centre), D. M. Jones and Welch (right wing). Throughout, the game was devoid of any roughness, Mr. Darry promptly putting on the sounder on any tendency in this direction.

RHYL. VALUABLE HORSES. Mr. Thomas Smith, of Ty nrhyl and Pentre Stud Farm, disposed of two valuable horses at exceptionally good prizes. One of the animals realised £ 170 and the other 95 guineas. A great deal has been done by Mr. Smith in recent years to improve the standard of light horses in the country, by the introduction of stud horses of high quality and purity of breed to the district. Proof of this has over and over again been given in the high encomiums passed by judges in district horse shows on the vast im- provements in the young stock exhibited since the institution of Pentre Stud Farm. THE PEACE CRUSADE. A fairly numerously attended meeting was held at the Board Room, Town Hall, on Tues- day night, under the presidency of Mr. J. H. Ellis, J.P., Chairman of the Urban District Council, to discuss the proposal of the Czar of Russia to reduce the armament cf the nations of the world. On the motion of the Vicar (the Rev. Dan Edwards), seconded by the Rev. H. Lefroy Yorke, English Wesleyan Minister, a resolution in favour of the projected peace conference, and of sending up a petition sup- porting the proposal was unanimously passed. On the motion of Mr. Mostyn Williams, se- conded by the Rev. E. E. Ingham (C.), and supported by the Rev. Shankland (B.), and Mr. Reynolds, a representative committee was ap- pointed to canvass signatures to the petition. ST. DAVID'S DAY. The anniversary of the patron saint ot Wales was observed in Rhyl with all due honour. In the evening, a banquet was held at the Alexan- dra Hotel, when a superb spread was prepared by Miss Williams, the genial hostess. Mr. R, Bromley, county coroner, presided; and was supported by Mr. Ellis Jones Griffith, M.P., Mr. Llewelyn Jones, B.A., and other gentle- men, while the vice-chair was occupied by the Rev. Canon Jones, of Mostyn. The company numbered nearly 60 persons, and was the larg- est for many years to sit at the national ban- quet. A lengthy toast list, interspersed with songs by Messrs. Gilbert, Rogers, W. Harberd, Joseph Lloyd (solicitor), Joseph Jones (junior), and others, was disposed of. Congratulatory telegrams interchanged with Welshmen gather. ed together at London, Bangor, and other places, were read, and a most enjoyable evening spent. A banquet was also given at the Royal Hotel, and attended by a numerous company, presided over by Mr. J. H. Ellis, J.P., chairman of the Urban District Council.

POLICE COURT. Monday.—Before Messrs. S. Perks (in the chair) and John Foulkes. NEGLECTED GIPSY CHILDREN. Kenza Taylor, gipsy, basket maker, and his wife, Jane Taylor, of no fixed abode, but re- cently of Rhyl, were brought up in custody charged with neglecting their four children in December last. Mr. R. Bromley appeared to prosecute on be- half of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. The case against the husband was taken first, defendant pleading guilty. Inspector John Thomas, N.S.P.C.C., said that on December 17th he visited the Marsh, and found the defendant and the children near a tent. The children were standing on an ash- heap, and were soaking wet from the rain which had been falling. Their faces and beads were dirty and covered with sores, some of which appeared to have been caused by burns and others by neglect. They were in a pitiable condition, and a girl 20 months old had a severe cold, her chest being quite raw through coughing. He rspoke to the father about the children, and reminded him that he had been warned as far back as 1894. Defendant replied that he could not do anything about the alleged neglect of the children, as his wife on being spoken to about doing wrong always ran away to her mother. In fact, the mother was then away with one of the children. Defendant also said that he did not knowjwhat the sores on the children were. Witness examined the tent and found that it contained plenty of clean straw for the children to sleep on, and there waR a sufficiency of clothing. He again visited lhe place on December 20th, but found that the party had left. They, however, returned on December 28th, and on visiting them he found the same condition of things existing. Defen- dant then said that his wife had left him and had gone to live wiih his mother in Birkenhead. On December 29th he visited No 29, Gas Street, and found Mrs. Taylor and the children there. He examined the children and found that they were dirty, and that there were sores and marks of fleas on their bodies. He also found vermin about them. On asking Mrs: Taylor for an explanation, she said that she had left her husband on account of his iU-treatment, and that in the previous night she had taken the children to him, but he had left them at the corner of Gas Street the next morning. She also said that she was destitute. Subsequently witness saw the defendant, and endeavoured to persuade him to go to Gas Street to the child- ren, but he declined. He accompanied the officer to the tent on the Marsh, where defen- dant said that the children had slept the pre vious night, but had nothing but cold potatoes to eat from early the previous day. After consulting with the Relieving Officer witness got the wife and children removed to the Work- house, but the defendant called the next day and took them away to Birkenhead, where he was arrested by the police on Saturday. Defendant denied that the clothing of the children was wet, and said that he had always taken care of his children. Mr. William Parry, School Attendance Officer, and A..S. MacWalter gave corroborative evi- dence. Dr. Hughes Jones, Elwy Street, gave evidence as to the condition of four of the dsfendant's children. They were fairly well nourished, but dirty from want of soap and water. There were marks of vermin about the body, and some of the children had sores which were contagions and had been primarily caused by neglect. The sores could easily have been got rid of by pro- per treatment, and had existed for some time. The clothing of the children was sufficient. The defendant said that the sores were due to the overheating of the blood. He had at- tended to his children as best as he could, and it was well known that he was no stranger t. the town, having lived in his tent close by for about five years, during the time he had worked at various places in Rhyl. It could not be said that he was cruel in any shape or form. The Chairman said the bench were satisfied that defendant had been guilty of neglecting his children. Parents had responsibilities, and it was inhuman not to look after children in a proper manner. Considering that he had been previously warned by the Society respecting his children, the bench did not consider that they could do less than send him to prison for one month with hard labour. Jane Taylor was then charged with a like offence, and she pleaded guilty. Mr. Bromley said the Society did not wish to unduly press the case against the mother, and seeing that she had a child at her breast he had no desire to insist that she should be sent to prison. He considered that justice would be done were the bench to bind the defendant over to come up for judgment if called upon. Formal evidence was then given by Inspector Thomas as to the neglect, and the bench bound the defendant over in the sum of E10 to come up for judgment if called upon within six months. The Chairman warned her as to her future conduct, and hoped that she would now take care of her children. Mr. Bromley asked the bench to remit the court fees in the cases, seeing that the Society were doing the best that was possible in the in- terests of children. He was instructed to ask for the few shilling already paid to be returned, as the Soctety was under very heavy expenses in conducting prosecutions. The Chairman said that he did not think that they could deal with such an application that day, as it would be the county generally which would sufter if the fees were remitted. He suggested that the proper course to adopt would be for the Society to apply to the Standing Joint Police Committee, who could, if it was thought advisable, ask the justices to remit fees in such cases. Mr. Bromley and Inspector Thomas stated that in other courts the fees were usually re- mitted when the defendants were sent to prison. The Magistrates' Clerk said he was alwayff ready to assist the Society in every way possi- ble, but he failed to sea how the fees could be remitted. Mr. Bromley said that it was done elsewhere, and added that the fact that the fees were re- mitted would not affect the Magistrates' Clerks in the county, as they were paid a salary. The fees did not go into the pockets of the Magis- trates' Clerks. The Magistrates' Clerk asked Mr. Bromley and the Inspector if they remitted the fees re- ceivable by them in such cases (laughter). Mr. Bromley replied that he was paid by the Society and not by the county. The Magistrates' Clerk promised to look into the matter, and see what could be done. CLOTHING HIMSELF ON THE CHEAP. George Smith, aged 18 years, described as a shoemaker, was brought up in custody charged with stealing a suit of clothes at Hendre, Rliuddlan, on the previous day. John Warrell, farm labourer, Hendre, said that he had lost a suit of clothes, valued at 15s. wh:ch were stolen from Hendre the previous day. The prisoner came to the farm on Satur- day night with another lad, between 10 and 11 o'clock. He slept in the lads' bedroom where the clothes were kept. Witness got up and left the room before the defendant got up. He returned to the room just before nine o'clock, and found that the suit had gone. He then gave information to the police. By the bench The clothes were kept on a peg in the room. Defendant slept in my bed that night. The defendant pleaded guilty, and elected to be dealt with summarily. He stated that both his parents were dead, aid that, at the age of 8 years, he was sent from Norwich to an In- dustrial School at Manchester because he would not go to school. He had been in the school for about 10 years, and learned the trade of a shoemaker. He afterwards came to Rhyl. The Chairman said that the defendant had started on a downward course at an early age, and he regretted to see him placed in such a position. He had to be taught that theft was severely punished, and the bench felt that they could not do less than send him to jail for 21 days with hard labour. DISHONEST LADS. On Tuesday, before Dr. A. Eyton Lloyd and other magistrates, Ellen Schofield, of Graig Cottage, Dyserth, was charged by Detective Joseph Weaver, of the London and North- Western Railway Company, with defrauding the Company by travelling between Manchester and Rhyl on the 24th of January without pre- viously having paid her fare. Mr. Fenna prosecuted. The magistrates imposed a fine of El and costs. Harry Hughes, aged 15, Kinmel Street, Rhyl, and James Fitzpatrick, aged 16, Greenfielil Place, Rhyl, were charged with stealing a num- ber of arrows and keys from an archery cabin cn the sands at Rhyl. The bench dealt with the defendants under the First Offenders Act, and bound them over to come up for judgment when called upon. Robert David Williams, a boy 11 years of age, was charged with stealing a cash-box con- taining two shillings, the property of Miss Rosa Slatter, confectioner, Bedford Street, Rhyl. The defendant was ordered to receive six strokes of the birch.

CAERWYS. -J" THE FAIR. The monthly fair held on Tuesday, and was well attended. There was a good supplyof stock; prices were much the same as last fair. ST. DAVID'S DAY EISTEDDVOD. The above annual Eisteddvod, which is pro- moted by the Calvinistic Methodists church of the district of Caerwys, was held on Thursday, the 2nd, at the Town Hall. A full report will appear in our next issue. CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOUR SOCIETY. The weekly meeting of the above society was held on Friday evening, of last week, at the Wesleyan chapel, there being a good atten- dance. Owing to the indisposition of Mrs. Matthews, the chair was taken by Mrs. Parry, Liverpool House. After Miss Williams, Chapel Street, opened the meeting, the president called upon the Rev. E. G. Turner (W). to read h:s paper upon,' The influence of Christianity upon a man, the family, and society.' This was followed with addresses by the Revs. W. Benjamin and Edwin Jones, and Mr. W. H. Parry. A very hearty vote of thanks was accorded Mr. Turner for his able paper. The meeting closed with prayer. A LECTURE UPON MR. VAVASOR POWELL. A very interesting and instructive lecture was delivered at the Baptist chapel, on Wed- nesday night, upon Mr. Vavasor Powell, the martyred missionary of Wales the 16th century. The Rev. E. J. Davit Rhyl, was the lecturer, and we are pleased t note that the rev. gentleman handled his iect in a masterly manner, and kept his .ut.nce spell bound to the end.. The Rev. E. Jones, pastor, presided. The Rev. J. G. Williams, Brynsien- cyn, spoke a few words at the close. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded Mr. Davies for his ecture, and to the pastor for presiding.

decorated with leeks and other Welsh emblems, the dresses and the decorations being under the efficient superintendence of Mrs. Nevin, the Matron. Dr. Cox, the medical superintendent, hav- ing given a short history of St. David, the fol lowing programme was gone through :— Pennillion singing, 'Hob y Deri Dando,' the choir. Song and chorus, 'Come back to thy home,' Attendant E, Cross, and choir. Song and chorus, 'Ton y Melinydd;' Attend- ant W. Lloyd Hughes, and choir. Duet, 'Stop ar Mixio Saesneg,' Attendants David Davies and Walter Langford. Song and chorus, Ar hyd y nos,' Attendant Nellie Williams, and choir. Song, 'Hiraeth,' Attendant Kate Williams. Pennillion singing, I Lili Lon. The choir. Judging by their appreciation, the singing of the soloists and the choir was thoroughly appreciated by the patients and the visitors.