The Aberystwyth Times Cardiganshire Chronicle and Merionethshire News

THE DOLGELLEY VESTRY. SIR, One good turn deserves another." This is a maxim one would have expected a correspondent of so high pretensions, as to call himself" Gonestrwydd," to be able thoroughly to appreciate. Inasmuch as all the pro- ceedings of the vestry have been conducted Y'ngwyneb haul ac yn llygad goleuui," and all references to the same made in open daylight by everybody else, it is most won- derful that Honesty itself could stoop to the meanness of lurking behind an assumed character, and hurl his missiles, however harmless, hidden behind a cover. He must be ashamed either of himself or the cause he thus so much dishonours in pleading. I hesitated for a time whether it was not more honour- able in me to treat the strictures of "Gonestrwydd with the 'silent contempt' they deserved but thinking again this might be misconstrued by some for silent necessity, and as I had not happened to mention as a sine qua non that I was not prepared to combat a phantom through the medium of your columns, but first to be satisfied of having a foeman worthy of my steel,' a second thought led me to the determination to write a few words more to acquaint him and all concerned that I would not condescend to ap- proach the subject through the press but on the ground of perfect equality. Since it is evident from the beginning we differ respect- ing our notions of "honesty" (however strange the asser- tion may seem when referred to the essence of the virtue), it is not wonderful we don't agree either as regards the conduct of the ex-officio chairman of the vestry. Continu- ing to smart nnder the supposed grievance," I come forward again to reiterate my unshaken conviction of the illiberal conduct of the chairman, and to maintain that instead of "coming forward to apologise for such unwar- rantable remarks" as my last letter contained, the apology- is due from the chairman for what I consider quite un- gentlemanly c'mduct. This I prove from a point of view not mentioned before, nor is it alluded to in the report of the meeting. Most of the speakers, if not all, who rose to address the vestry did so without asking the permission of the chair I, on the contrary, with deliberate intention, had the modesty of prefacing my remarks with the chair- man's leave, which was granted with a most courteous bow from him, and a gracious smile from the superintendent on the bench above. But I soon had to learn the meaning of this farce -it was only given because it was thought I had a right to it-for when it transpired in the course of my remarks that this could be questioned, the gracious permission was instantly suspended. With a candid wish to be fair, however, I think the natural impulses of the reverend rector are towards the pole of liberality it is only when he comes to reflect on what the majesty of the law' imposes or allows that his magnetic needle is set a whirling. In the first vestry meeting, when the proposer of the motion did notexpect he would put it up, reflecting as it did upon himself, yet he obeyed his better impulse in it did upon himself, yet be obeyed his better impulse in the second, after bethinking himself of the power vested in him "by law," which has such an annihilating power as referred to by your other honourable correspondent of last week, he doggedly persisted in refusing to put up a motion which was otherwise passed by the great majority. (Facts are stubborn things even against the omnipotence of the law.) Again-and here "Gonestrwydd" and I agree—when he says "that the rector should not have the power of nominating both churchwardens," nor does Mr Lewis urge the plea of essential justice in his favour, it is the blind veneration to law derived from custom which causes him to err from equity, and in my case law' brought him to an unhappy dilemma but rather than use that horn by which as absolate monarch he could allow any speaker to proceed, the same as he could forego the duty of a chairman to put up a motion duly proposed and seconded, he preferred the other to put down a speaker who seemed to him by law' incapacitated to proceed. Sorry we are here at Dolgelley that our Rector has not leamt the great art of "winking" which his brother at Fes- tiniog, Mr Killen, is such an adept in. Nothing surprised me more at the termination of the vestry than to find a unanimous vote of thanks given to the chairman. Apart from all personal feeling it seems to me "Gonestrwydd" ought t) grant eitlierthe chairman ortbe law deserved a vote of censure, especially when the great motion of the meet- ing was carried as you put it in your editorial remarks 'in the teeth of the rector's opposition.' It was quite natural that such a vote of thanks was subsequently and immediately qualified by a vote of dismissal from the duties of guardian of the poor of the parish of Dolgelley. This was only tantamount to a vote to annul the law favour- ing an ex-officio chairman of a parish vestry. I am sorry to find your correspondent Gonestrwydd making such a non-chivalrous attack upon the ladies in his letter. "Every old woman in the parish could claim and in fairness insist upon having such right conceded to her." Now I can explain why he hides himself. No gen- tleman would wish to come forward openly to attack the fair sex, or the weaker vessel; and still it is more cowardly to disparage them under cover. No doubt he is an old bachelor, and means soma time again to ingratiate himself into their favour, unless he be a thorough misogamist and misogynist, as his words would warrant a conclusion. Why, in a parish with which I am acquainted and under the jurisdiction of the rector of Dolgelley as rural dean—though we must not here speak too lou(I-a woman," certainly on the way to be old," and an aunt of mine, is a leader and almost an oracle in vestry matters. What if "Gonestrwydd" were pre- sent, and. witnessing this woman rising to address the meeting ? I can fancy seeing him stopping up his ears, as Ulysses filled the ears of his comrades with wax to pre- vent them hearing the charms of the Syrens, or immedi- ately referring the chairman to Prideaux or Archbold, that parishioner or pason could never mean a "woman." But in her case civility has traveled so far westward as to reach that meridian line where this place and Festiniog lie, and where the clergy can at least wink at the law and definitions, in order to get words of wisdom on the economical administration of parish affairs even from the mouth of a "woman," whereas miserable we, our lots have fallen in a desolate region where "men" cannot have the benefit of a wink in the parish vestry. Still, we must be thankful for small mercies. We value the announcement from such a high authority, "that the days have arrived when parochial and vested rights are carefully watched over." It was not a vague prophecy which led us to fear the contrary, but experience of the past taught us to concern for the future, and if misappro- priations are now impossible in the future, this is attri- butable, not to the passive silence which Gonestrwydd inculcates, but, after all, to the "noisy" outcry which he so much deprecated. I am very kindly and courteously advised bv your cor- respondent to look to the charge of my own flock," and not interfere with church matters, as churchmen don't with ours. I can assure him I have no disposition at all to be obnoxious it is still the law which is the source of so much dignity and annoyance to churchmen that forces me and others to do. If he can separate parish affairs from church matters, and the question of the money accumulating from the Green from churchwardens, then we shall be well content to leave the internal affairs of the Church of England to her own members. And land- lords and farmers that belong to dissenting chapels would be glad to forfeit every privilege "law" now imposes upon them in church matters, were they ex- empted, too, from paying the tithes towards the support of the ministry of the church. Still, when this reign of justice devoutly to be wished shall have come to pass, it will be discretionary on my part to give a word of warn- ing" in the cause of truth and religion. I am not one of those who think ignorance is bliss" or the mother of devotion," nor consequently that it is folly to be wise," rather I think "the torch of truth, the more 'tis shook it shines." Petimus damusque vicissim," and I have good reason to think in my last word of warning" I have hit upon the true explanation of this tenacious clinging to a sup- posed custom, in opposition to plain law, inasmuch as it is far pleasanter to get the benefit of an undisturbed cus- tom than submit even a magnate to the risk of being rejected, as the late Board of Guardians election is a for- cible example. Talking of churchmen interfering in chapel affairs, when their chief men come amongst us, as "Gonestrwydd" no doubt well knows being so often one of us, we don't let them ask permission to speak; they are pressingly invited forward to address our meetings. It is not more than two years ago that the surviving editor of the" Dywysogaeth" was present on a Sunday evening with us in our seiat" at Dolgelley—our most private meeting. He was asked to say a word, and he gave us some of his thoughts on men and manners." How does this contrast with the con- duct of the rector of Dolgelley towards the editor of Y Dydd in not asking him to say a word when he faithfully attended the two last vestry meetings ? Here the rector reigned supreme, and the ground was not consecrated, and this editor also, like him of the Dywysogaeth" with us is a gentleman, "Qui mores hominum multorum vidit et urbes." What churchman does not exult at the thought of this young and vigorous champion of State-churchism in Wales, Y Dywgsogaeth." Victoria should bestow her title of defender of the faith," upon this young scion of the church family. I hope I don't offend against the good taste of Gonestrwydd" and his friends in thus naming such a pattern of "moderation and christian feeling and sympathy" as the Dywysoyaeth" in the same columns as the anathematized Dydd. If the Dydd "lends further illustration and force to the question put by Mr Beresford Hope on the Burial Bill," equally strong does the language of the Dywysogaeth illustrate the arrogance dwelt upon so much at large by Mr Osbome Morgan in introducing the Bill. When there was no prospect of this righteous defence for a dissenter, I used to console myself that if ever I came to the circumstances, no clergyman, as was described by Mr Morgan, could refuse me Christian burial, since it was my fortune to be baptized by a successor of the Apostle in the parish church. I am afraid the evidence of a son of the church had quite disappeared, else I would have had the benefit of a wink, if not of a doubt, in the parish vestry. "Gonestrwydd" kindly invites me for once to the church. I hope the day is not far when I can come on a friendly civil equality with the ministers of the English Church. Why should there be such a gap between the dissenting ministers of the town of Dolgelley and else- where and the rectors and curates of the Established Church? Where is the true cause? We are on the eve of being admitted "by law" into the graveyards, and when the false position in which the" law" places the ministers of the Establishment over their brethren will be destroyed, who knows but that we can interchange pulpits with each other, and then we shall meet amicably on Bible Society platforms, instead of being, as now, utter strangers; and then when we come into contact with each other, it will not be to ignite the fire of con- tention between us, but to kindle a fire of enthusiasm to unite our whole strength against the ignorance, the irre- ligion, and the vice which is more than a match even for our best husbanded efforts. It is time I should conclude, else there is another very long and very tedious" letter, and this will necessitate an I equally long annswer from Gonestrwydd" (but, mind, in proprid persona), as in his last answer he seems to be pledged to be equally long, though this obliged him to cause me to wear my blushing honours thick upon me," and to tax your type-I wonder they held out—so often a certain, unmeaning combination of letters occurred, which enabled him like a wounded snake to drag its slow length along," to perfect equality. When we find abstract Honesty" wedded to concrete flesh and blood, as I fondly hope to see in a future num- ber, then I can refer to "Ni l'un ni l'autre, Esq., M.A., Gonestrwydd," or Rev. Erastus Anglicanus, D.D., Gonestrwydd," not usque ad nauseam, as in my poor case, but with the happy effect of stamping "Gonestrwydd" indelibly deep on the minds of the readers. And why should he lurk behind a parapet to combat "false sup- positions" and "absurd logic?" He is an honourable man, so were Brutus and Cassius, not only in their own estimation, but in that of Antony, and still they murdered Caesar. "Gonestrwydd" is an honourable man, but this mean mask-wearing is somewhat sus; i ious. However much the feelings of the inhabitants of Dolgelley have been outraged in the matter of the Green trustees, Gonestrwydd" need not be afraid they will cause the very stones of the town to rise and mutiny against him for so gallantly interfering in the affair. In this age of pretence, hollowness and subter- fuges would they hail with joy the appearance for once of incarnate Honesty," and take his infallible counsel not to proceed" t) the useful and exhilarating proc ss of going down to posterity as plaintiffs in a leading case." On this condition, plain and easy, "Honestas intersit, et est dignus vindice nodus," else permit me courteously to bid him adieu, and hereby promise to allow an undis- turbed possession of the ground to all entering hereon with masked or blackened faces. Tours, &c., Dolgelley, 11th April, 1870. DAVID EYAS.

THE UNIVERSITY BOAT RACE. Cambridge, after a long series of defeats, has at length (savs the Field) turned the tables on her sister University, and for the first time since the year 1860 the Light Blue has pas-ed the flagboat at Mortlake the winner of a well- contested race. We should think that not less than two hundred thousand human beings line the banks of the river from Putney to Mortlake on Wednesday. Among them were a larger proportion than usual of the upper and middle classss, and the number of ladies, the maj oritvo f whom wore the colours of their respective favourites, was greater than we ever remember to have seen on a previous occasion. Of the race itself, it is enough to say that Cambridge, contrary to general anticipation, led from the very com- mencement, and rowed a winning race all the way and, although the Oxonians once or twice drew up to them, the superior strength, coupled with the more even and lengthy rowing of the Light Blue crew, carried them to the fore, notwithstanding the plucky efforts of Mr Darbishire and his men. That the best crew wen is indisputable, and there is no doubt that the rowing of Cambridge more nearly than heretofore approximated that of the Oxford crews of three or four years ago. The following are the crews and weights :— CAMBRIDGE. st lb 1. E. S. L. Randolph, Third Trinity 10 llt 2. J. H. Ridley, Jesus 11 9! 3. J. W. Dtle, St. John's 12 2t 4. E. A. Spencer, S cond Trinity. 12 4 5. W. H. Lowe, Christ's 12 "| 6. E. Phelps, Sidney 12 If 7. J. Strachan, Trimtv Hall 11 13 J. H. D. Goliie. St. John's (st) 12 0 H. E. Gorden, First Trinity (cox.). 7 12 OXFORD. st lb 1. R. W. Mirehouse, University 11 0 2. A. G. P. Lewis, University 11 2i 3. T. S. Baker, Queen's 12 9 4. J. E lwards-Moss, Balliol. 13 C 5. F. E. H Payne, St. John's 12 10 6. S. H. Woodhouse, University 11 4 7. W. D. Benson, BaJliol 11 13 S. D. Dctrbisliire, BaUiol (st.) 11 11 F. H. Hall, Corpus (cox) 7 7 The Sportsman thus describes the race :—Oxford got afloat first at five o'clock exactly, and paddled down to the dummy off the Star and Garter, where they sat patien t ly awaiting the coming of their opponents, who did not lea ve their boathouse until ten minutes later. A loud cheer, taken up and continued along the banks greeted their appearance, and without much loss of time the eights took up their positions ahead of the two scullers' boats moored off, Oxford, who had won the toss, occupying the outs id e berth, owing to the slackness of the tide. All being in readiness, Mr Searle, the starter, asked the question, Are you ready?" three times, and receiving no reply, dispatched them to a capital start at 5 18, Cambridg e, if anything, getting the advantage. The first few stroke s in both boats were somewhat wild and rapid, but the cr ews soon settled down, Oxford rowing a trifle quicker t han their opponents, though the difference was not much, and off Simmons's we timed them at Oxford 39, Cambridge 38. ,-e The light blues soon began to show with a perceptible ad- vantage, which at the top of Finch's field they had in- creased to a third of a length, and speculation aboard the press boat, which at the start had been even, Oxford for choice, was now in favour of Cambridge, on whom odds of 3 to 2 were laid. By degrees Oxford began to lose groun d, and though the difference between the eights at Crav en Cottage could not be more than half a length, Oxford d id not appear to such advantage as in previous years. Fro m this point, however, they began to hold their own, and as the Cambridge coxswain, who had been steering too close in-shore, began to come out to make the crossing Oxford seemed to be lessening the gap a little. Off Rose Cottage, a third of a length only separated them, and in the shoot Oxford took a far better course. Notwithstanding this, Goldie continued to keep his men hard at it, and a ratt ling spurt off the Soap Works Point, sustained to Hammer- smith Bridge, enabled them to go through the centre arch quite half a length in advance. Up Chiswick their cox- swain took them wide again, and off the Oil Mills their boat lay nearly athwart the river. Just before reaching the Water Works, Darbishire called on his crew, and a splendid spurt placed them on nearly level terms with their opponents, not more than a quarter of a length divi- ding the eights. The partisans of the dark blues were now wild with excitement, and 6 to 4 was offered on them. Still the Cantabs kept just in front, and every succeeding spurt of Oxford was answered in the most determined manner by Cambridge. Off Chiswick Church Oxford were rowing 40 strokes a minute and Cambridge 38, the going of the light blues, both as regards strength and form, being noticeably superior. Besides this there were now at least two passengers in the Oxford boat, Lewis doing hardly any work, and Benson rowing very short and with- out life or dash. Off the Duke's bathing-place Darbi- shire, as though sensible of weakness of some of his men, rowed most gallantly, lashing the water stroke after stroke, and literally tearing himself to pieces," but it was of no avail, and he was beaten after one of the grandest 'races ever seen on the Thames to within a third of a mile of Barnes Railway Bridge. Off the Bull's Head the Cam- bridge coxswain for the first time took bis crew out as if to go ahead of the Oxonians and give them the benefit of a back-wash, and the boats shot Barnes Bridge in 18min. 8sec. after the start, Cambridge being a quarter of a length clear. From this point they gradually widened the gap, and, nothwithstanding the most determined struggles of the Oxonians to within a few hundred yards of the finish, passed the Ship the winners by a length and three- quarters. Time, 22min. 6sec. The following is a record of the matches since their commencement Year. Winner. Time. Won by 1829. Oxford 14m. 30s Easily. 1836 Cambridge. 36m. 0s Imin. 1839. Cambridge. 31m. 0s 1m. 45sec. 1840. Cambridge. 29m. 30s 2-3rds of a length. 184 1 Cambridge. 32m. 30s 1m. 45sec. 184 2 Oxford 30m. 45s 13sec. 184 5 Cambridge. 23m. 30s. 30sec. 184 6 Cambridge. 21m. 5s. a 2 lengths. 1849. Cambridge. 22m. 0s Easily. 1849. Oxford —— Foul. 1852 Oxford 21m. 36s 27s. 1854 Oxford. 25m. 29s 11 strokes. 185 6 Cambridge, 25m. 50s t a length. 185 7 Oxforl 22m. 35s.b. 35sec 185 8 Cambridge. 21m. 23s 22sec. 1859. Oxford 24m. 40s Cam. sank. 1800 Cambridge. 26m. 5s 1 length. 186 1 Oxford. 23m. 30s. 4Ssec. 1862. Oxford 24m. 41s 30sec. 186 3 Oxford 23m. 6s 43sec. 186 4 Oxford. 21m. 4013. 26sec. 186 5 Oxford. 21m. 2413. 4 lengths. 1866. Oxford 25m. 35s. 15sec, 1867. Oxford 22m. 40s length. 1868. Oxford. 20m. 56s 6 lengths. 186 9 Oxford Om. 5s. 3 lengths. 187 0 Cambridge, 22m. 6s If lenghts. a First university race rowed in outriggers. bFirst race in which either university rowed in present style of eights without keel, also the first time either rowed with round oars. Both used the same kind of oars and boats.

THE IRON, TIN PLATE, AND COAL TRADES OF SOUTH WALES. During the past week there has scarcely anything fresh transpired in connection with the iron trade. The same activity is evinced at the works, the principal establish- ments being well employed on rail contracts, and en- couraging reports are circulated as to the future. The- men are now in receipt of the advance of 10 per cent. At the quarterly meeting of the tin-plate manufacturers it was decided to further reduce the make, and to advance the price of plates Js. per box, which decision, if strictly adhered to, will no doubt tend very materially to strength- en the state of the trade. In the steam-coal trade a large business continues to be done with the European and other foreign markets.

FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE. Paris, April 12 th. Yesterday numerous seditious placards were posted in various quarters of Paris. Men in blouses were stationed before them who declared that they should not be torn down, nevertheless they were all removed by the police, and thirty individuals who attempted to oppose the officials were arrested. The Ministerial crisis continues, but efforts are being made to retain Count Daru in the Ministry. It is hoped that some solution will be arrived at to-day. Madrid, April 11th. Further details of the attack upon Gracia have been re- ceived. Troops attacked the town by call, and the insurgents then left the town to gain the mountains, but found the neighbourhood occupied by troops, and not wishing to fight in the open country they returned to Gracia. In the first attack the insurgents had a slight loss. Upon their return to Gracia they endeavoured to occupy the houses, and thus continue the contest, but they found them all shut against them. Many of the in- surgents were killed and wounded by the troops. Liverpool, April 12th. The Liverpool, Brazilian, and River Plate mail steamer Tycho Brahe, from the Brazils, arrived this evening. The intelligence of the death of Lopez, which was signalled to Holyhead this evening, is fully confirmed. General Camera marched from Conception and defeatd L-pez at Aquibma. Lopez refused to surren 1: and f fighting. The remnant of hie arjrf were made prisoners.

SOCIETY. THE MONTGOMERYSHIRE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. We do not think the promoters of the Montgomery- shire Agricultural Society should be at all discouraged by what some of them considered the small attendance at the meeting on Monday. We have seen smaller meetings re- sulting in very successful movements, and there is a great deal of truth in the emark that" nothing succeeds like success." Many people hang back from a scheme which is immature, who join it as soon as the difficulty, and trouble, and expense of starting it are fairly overcome. Indeed it is almost always the case that only a few earnest men are willing to engage in the work of establishing a public society which afterwards will probably receive a large and wide-spread support. The attendance on Mon- day, however, strikes us as very satisfactory, however much we may regret the absence of many farmers, trades- men, and, especially, landowners, who are just the men that should give the useful aid of their presence to a move- ment like this. There was a large number of farmers from various parts of the district, and no doubt more of the tradesmen of the town "would have attended, had it not been a busy day for them. As we have said, the gentlemen most prominent by their absence were the landowners, but we may be sure that they will join the society as soon as it is afloat. We recollect well how many of the same class held back when the Oswestry Society was established, although in that instance one of lie most influential amongst them, Mr ORMSBY GORE, was the chief promoter. The fact may be explained per- Imps by the inertia which characterizes the class, and Bome compensation can be found in the warm and con- stant support often accorded by the same persons when Once they have joined & fresh movement. We are glad that the nrime of the society was changed at the meeting on Monday. It will liardly be possible, perhaps, to make it a county society, in the sense of having only one society for the -county, because of the extent of Montgomeryshire, and the small means of many of the farmers, which may prevent them from traveling long distances to be present at the meetings and exhibitions but there is no -reason why it should not cover a very considerable district, and the name as origin- ally suggested would have tended to limit its .operations. It is wisely proposed to make the show movable, and there is no reason why it should not Tse held at Welshpool, New town, and Llanidloes, and perhaps at Machynlleth. There is a double advantage in movable shows, for they not only extend the area of the society and ensure support for it in various localities, but -a spirit of wholesome competition is produced between tone town and another, and thus the interest in the institution is increased and sustained. The arrangements ff the promoters appear to have been carefully prepared. The wisdom of asking Lord Powis to be the first president everybody will admit, and his lordship's name will go far to ensure success. The choice of the other officials is also a happy one. The committee is influential and representative, and the honorary secre- taries, on whom so much depends, may be relied upon to bring a large amount of energy and ability to the dis- charge of their duties. Altogether the new society promises to start under favourable auspices, and we hope to have the pleasure of chronicling for it a long and prosperous hictory.—Oswestry Advertizes.

— THE SITES BILL. Mr OSBOU?VE MORGAN'S Bill for facilitating the acquisi- tion of sites for schools and places of worship was read a second time on Wednesday without a division, though not without strong opposition, which promises to manifest itself in a more active form in committee. Indeed the HOME SECRETARY withheld his assent from the compulsory powers provided 'by the Bill, with regard to places of worship but reading the measure a second time on con- dition that these .powers shall be expunged, is very like passing the Irish Land Bill without the compensation clauses. Mr BmJcE, we trust, will be better advised than to offer this stone when asked for bread it would hardly injure the Government more to oppose it altogether. The objections to compulsion on the part of the conservatives are easily understood, and nobody is surprised to hear the ancient cry about the" rights of property" from the Opposition Benches; but the scruples of the HOME SECRETARY are difficult to comprehend. The so-called rights of property," as Mr MORGAN clearly showed, will not bear investigation. The idea that a landowner has, or ought to have, absolute control over his land has been so very rudely destroyed by the steam engine, that it requires all the obtuseness of life-long prejudices any longer to raise the immemorial cry. Nobody should need to be told now-a-days that land, being limited in quantity, and differing- from every other kind of property, is subject to different rules, and that ownership in it must be specially limited by the interference of the State fur the good of the community. This is a doctrine which land- lords themselves will do well to ponder, as they wish to protect their property from the extravagant demands of extreme politicians AND Mr MORGAN'S advice, in the passage where he asked the House to remember that the history of England's prosperity was a history of timely concessions, may be studied with considerable benefit by zealous but indiscreet advocates of the "rights of pro- perty." No doubt there is a danger lest, in the revulsion from what perhaps have been the too exclusive privileges of the landlords, their rights should be disregarded, but they will best assist moderate men to guard against the danger by adopting the policy of timely concessions and carefully guarding against the folly of resisting temperate reforms. When the moderate demands of Mr MORGAN'S Bill are plainly stated, everybody must be struck with the reasonable character of the proposals. There is first the fact, indisputable to any one connected with the Principality, that occasionally a bigoted landowner, who perhaps holds all the land in the parish, refuses to sell a site for a school or a place of woiship, thus inflicting a serious injury upon one section of the community. All that Mr MORGAN'S Bill asks the Legislature to do is, to compel the landowner to sell, under conditions which will amply protect him and carefully guard against any abuse of the powers provided by the Act. In the first place a large number of persons residing in the locality must signify their desire to acquire possession of the land then an enquiry must take place as to the necessity of its acquisition and lastly, to leave nothing undone to secure the owner against vexatious interference, Mr MORGAN proposes that no order under the Bill shall be made absolute until it is confirmed by Parliament. The argument that there are very few landowners who refuse to grant sites for places of worship or schools is no argument at all against the measure, but rather the reverse. If the great majority recognize the propriety of the claim which is made upon them, there is all the more reason why Parlia- ment should give it the sanction of an Act. At any rate, only the bigoted landowners will suffer, and the landlords, as a class, if they are ready to permit freedom of worship without parliamentary interference, need not resent it, because when it comes it will not affect them. In short, the "rights of property," as an argument directed against Mr MORGAN'S Bill, only means the right of a landowner to prevent any denomination to which he objects from enjoying the privilege of public worship upon his estate. Of such a right, we fancy, the House of Commons will .hardly be very careful.- Oswestry Advertizer.

THE COAL AND JRON TRADE OF NORTH STAFFORDSHIRE. The quarterly meeting of the North Staffordshire Coal and Ironmasters' Association was held on Thursday at the Railway Hotel, Stoke-on-Trent. Mr Wragge was in the chair. The meeting decided to make no alteration in -prices. Finished iron was reported to be in steady demand, orders coming into the district in sufficient numbers to keep the works fairly employed. The report as to pig-iron showed the make of the district to be pretty fully sold for future delivery, and the prospect of the current quarter's production being taken for consumption. Sales of iron- stone, which was offered at former rates, were stated to be of an average character. The committee appointed at a previous meeting to deal with the question of rates of carriage affecting the trade of the district made a report, and a long and animated discussion took place on the sub- ject. Further instructions were given to the committee, with a request that they would continue their inquiries and investigations, and to enter into communication with the Chamber of Commerce on the subject if they thought it desirable.

BREAKFAST. -Erps*s COCOA.—GRATEFUL AND COMFORT- I-G.-Tlie very agreeable character of this preparation has rendered it a general favourite. The Civil Service Gazette remarks:—"The singular success which MrEpps attained by his homoeopathic preparation of cocoa has never been surpassed by any experimentalist. By a thorough know- ledge of the natural laws which govern the operations of digestion and nutrition, and by a careful Application of the fine properties of well-selected cocoa, Mr Epps has provided our breakfast tables with a delicately flavoured beverage which may save us many heavy doctors' bills.' Made simply with boiling water or milk. Sold by the Trade only in i lb., h lb,, and lIb. tin-lined packets, labelled—JAMES Epps & Co., Homoeopathic Chemists, London. HÜJ.LOWAY'S PILLS are the medicine most in repute for .curing the multifarious maladies which attack humanity, when w.et and cold weather gives place to more genial temperatures. In short, these Pills afford relief, if they fail of being an absolute remedy in all the disturbances of circulation, digestion, and nervous energy, which at times oppress a vast portion of the population. Under the wholesome, purifying, and strengthening powere exerted by these excellent Pills the tongue becomes clean, the appetite improves, digestion is quickened, and assimila- tion rendered perfect. Hollo way's medicine possesses the highly estimable property of cleansing the whole mass of blond. wh ell, in its renovated condition carries purity, st'vPLrthj 11 id vigour to every iissue of the body,

WELSHPOOL. THE PROPOSED AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. "On Monday afternoon a public meeting was held in the Town Hall, for the purpose of arranging the establishment of an agricultural show at Welshpool. The attendance was not so numerous as had been anticipated, considering that the meeting was held upon the fair day, and that the foundation of a society to -encourage the improvement of stock and agricultural implements cannot fail to be pro- ductive of advantage to the agricultutists of the district, the tradespeople of the town, and the public generally of the vicinity. The Mayor (Thomas Bowen, Esq.) presided. Among those present were the Rev. R. J. Harrison, Caerhowell, Captain Mytton, Mr E. T. D. Harrison (ex mayor of Welshpool), Captain Sturkey, Meifod, Mr John Mickleburgh, Mr W. Withy, the Golfa, Mr Ellis Jones, Mr D. P. Owen, Mr Thomas Morris, Mr Bangh, Llany- mynech, Mr Evan Owen, Mr John Morris, Weston, Mr S. Miller., Abermule, Mr Turner, NewtoWn, Mr Asterley, Llanymynech, Mr W. Lloyd, Berriew, Mr B. Lay, Welshpool, Mr Davies, Berriew, Mr W. Beattie, Welsh- pool, Mr Thomas Halford, Newtown, Mr James Davies, Jamesford, Mr John Fortune, Coedydinas, Mr W. Fortune, Mr Meredith, Heldre, Mr Woof, Gaer, Mr Mr Price, Henfron, Mr W. Price, Chirbury, Mr Haynes, Ri'vington, Mr Roberts, Burgedin, Mr Thomas, junr., Walton, Mr W. Davies, Varchoel, Mr Steel (manager of the Shropshire Union Canal Company), Welshpool, Mr W. Collender (Cambrian Railways), Welshpool, Mr E. H. Morris, Llwynrhedith, Mr J. Jones, Varchoel, Mr Allen, Lvmore, Mr Baxter, Welshpool, Mr John Whitehall, Welshpool, Mr John Rogers, Wern, Mr W. T. Pa-ker, Welshpool, Mr Kempster, Llandrinio, Mr Richards, Mathrafal, Mr Shuker, Chirbury, Mr Conde, Berr.ew, Mr Kydd, Garth, &c. The MAYOR, at the expiration of some time after the hour announced for the meeting, said he was afraid they would have no further attendance, and he thought they had better commence the proceedings. He had been re- quested to preside at the meeting, which had been con- vened to ascertain what the feelings of the farmers generally were upon the subject of the establishment of an agricultural society. It appeared to him to be a very desirable thing to establish a society of this kind, and likely to be a very great advantage to the county. Some years ago such a society was in existence, and for a con- siderable period it was regarded as quite a success and he had no doubt that it proved a very great advantage, for the agriculturists met together and consulted upon the various improvements that were going on in agricultural implements and stock. They had the advantage of living in a county where the soil was a very superior one, capable of growing as fine corn and feeding as fine cattle as any part of England, and he did not see why a society of this kind should not prosper here. He should be very happy to hear opinions expressed by any gentlemen present. There were some resolutions which had been drawn ul, and the Rev. Mr Harrison, would, perhaps, be kind enough to move the first resolution. The Rev. R. J. HARRISON said, as the resolution had only just been put into his hand, he felt some diffidence in proposing it upon this occasion, for he had certainly not given the subject that attention which it ought to have had to enable him to speak upon it. He thought that societies of this kind most assuredly did good in every possible way and if one could be formed here, he and others no doubt would be exceedingly glad of it. He did not know what the resolution was that he had to propose, so little did he know of it. (Laughter and applause.) The resolution, he now saw, endorsed all that he had said, viz.—" That in the opinion of this meeting it is extremely desirable that an agricultural society be established in this district that it be called the Welshpool Agricultural Society and that the limits of the society be the county of Montgomery and that portion of the county of Salop comprised within the Forden Union." Before he pro- posed that resolution to the meeting he should like to ask a question. There was a society in Montgomeryshire some thirty years ago that society went on for a good many years; and it was dissolved, he believed, about twenty years ago. He did not ask what were the circum- stances under which that society was dissolved, bu the asked whether there was not money in hand ? The MAYOR was sorry to say that there was no money in hand belonging to that society. He well recollected being present at a large meeting of the society, at the Royal Oak, at which Lord Powis presided, and a very agreeable and pleasant meeting it was. The Rev. R. J. HARRISON—There is a library, is there not ? The MAYOR replied that Mr D. P. Owen had informed him that on the dissolution of the society the books pre- sented by Lord Powis were returned to his lordship. The Rev. R. J. HARRISON—But are there not books be- longing to the society ? Mr D. P. OWEN—The society died in debt. The Rev. R. J. HARIUsON-That might be; but if there were books left, we might have a society which would fall in for those books. If the new society were called the Welshpool Society, it might claim the books belonging to the other society. Mr D. P. OWEN-Some eighteen years ago the books granted by the late Lord Powis were brought to my father's office, and they were returned to Powis Castle. The Rev. R. J. HARRISON—But were there not some Journals of the Royal Agricultural Society1 Mr D. P. OWEN-Tliat I cannot say. The Rev. R. J. HARRISON—I do not wish to bind myself to anything of the kind suggested in the resolution, unless I know what is intended to be done. It would be a pity to form a society which could not take advantage and step into the shoes of the old society. The MAYOR-Certainly, if there is anything to be ob- tained from it. The Rev. R. J. HARRISON'S impression was, that there was a library. He did not wish to throw the apple of discord, but he could not 'propose that part of the resolu- tion that the society be called the Welshpool Agricultural Society. Mr ELLIS JONES explained that the promoters of the society wished to take in the whole county of Mont- gomery and those portions of Salop within a radius of fifteen miles from Welshpool. Mr THOMAS MORRIS remarked that they could not ex- pect Llanfyllin and other neighbouring places to come in if they called the society the Welshpool Society. The Rev. R. J. HARRISON inquired who were the repre- sentatives of the old society, and if they would hand over to the new society whatever belonged to the old society ? Mr WITHY replied that the balance had been handed over to the Patriotic Fund. Mr HALFORD stated that certain gentlemen had the balance in hand for twelve or fifteen years, and they did not know what to do with it until they had the opportu- nity to present it to the Patriotic Fund. the Rev. R. J. HARRISON then, upon the understand- ing that there was "nothing in the till," moved the first resolution, the title being altered from that of the Welsh- pool Agricultural Society, as it appeared in the original draft, to that of the Montgomeryshire Agricultural Society. Society. Mr JOHN ROGERS seconded the resolution, and, on its being submitted to the meeting, it was unanimously adopted. Mr S. MILLER proposed the second resolution, "That the landowners and gentry be requested to patronize and support the society." He could fully endorse what the Rev. Mr Harrison had said, that an agricultural society was very desirable for the county. He saw a few land- owners present, but very few indeed, and it was note- worthy that there were only few who did join in these meetings. (Hear, hear.) He hoped that the landowners would generally attend in the future. It was, in his opinion, desirable that the society should be a moving society—moving in succession to the whole of the towns in Montgomeryshire. Some people, perhaps, would not like it to go to Machynlleth; but a subscription should be raised, as was done with respect to the Royal Agricultural Society of Jbngland, and if people did not raise a subscrip- tion the towns they represented should not have the shows which would be confined to the larger towns of the county: In his part of the county they really could not afford to lonse anything they could meet with, likely to improve agriculture, from any part of the county. People at Welshpool and the neighbourhood had more ch ances of getting about and seeing stock than those in the outskirts of the county. It would be much better for all of them if the landowners would come more among them. (Ap- plause.) Mr WITHY had much pleasure in seconding the resolu- tion proposed by Mr Miller The landowners had come forward to support the Llanfyllin Society, and that society had shown that agriculture was promoted by them more than it was twenty or thirty years ago, when there was a society established at Welshpool. Circumstances and events had changed the times in every way. Railway communication and machinery had so improved that he did not fear that if they once established an agricultural society for the county it would progress. It was not the intention of the promoters to confine the society to Welsh- pool they merely wished to establish it there and if the inhabitants of other towns and districts wished to join they would not be unwilling to see Newtown, Machyn- lleth, or Llanfyllin join them upon the principle that union is strength." (Applause.) They would never be able to support the society if it were established for one district only but if they took the county altogether, he was positive that they would form a good and substantial society. (Applause.) The resolution was adopted, nem con. Mr EVAN OWEN said, in the establishment of a society in the district it would be necessary to raise a fund, to have a treasurer, and to appoint gentlemen to miiiale the accounts. He therefore proposed, That subscriptions be entered into that Messrs Beck and Co be reon^ttvl act as treasurers and that Mr W. Withy, The Golfa, and Mr D. P. Owen be appointed joint honorary secretaries (Applause.) Mr DAVIES (Berriew) seconded the proposition, and it was adopted. Mr E. T. D. HARRISON said, the next resolution had been placed in his hands, and he had very great pleasure in pioposing it to the meeting, for it was one that would highly commend itself to everyone present. He need not tell them that it would be greatly to the advantage of such a society as they were establishing to have at the head of it the largest landed proprietor in the county, one who had in a prominent degree identified himself with agricultural pursuits. He therefore proposed, That the Earl of Powis be requested to act as president for this year." (Loud applause.) Mr W. T. PARKER seconded this motion, and it was carried. Mr BAXTER moved, That the following gentlemen be requested to act as a committee, with power to add to their number that they be requested to canvass their respective parishes for subscriptions and support and that they meet on Monday, April 25th, 1870, to report progress Ibe Corporation of Welshpool, Air Fortune, Coedydinas, Mr Samuel Powell, Mr John Hickman Mr W. Rowland, Mr Thomas Jones, Clive-place, Mr Baxter Mr John Whitehall, Mr D. Williams, Leiirhton, Mr Roberts, The Hope, Mr Vaughan, The Moors,"Mr James Powell, Buttington, Mr Bickerton, Mr Edwards, Trewern Hall, Mr Edward Green, Bank, Mr John Green, Maesydd, Atr John Rogers, Wern, Major Heyward, Capt. Mytftm, Mr Bebb, Varchoel, Mr Jones, Varchoel, Rev. B-. J. Harrison, Forden, Mr E. H. Morris, Llwynfhedith, Mr John Jones, Nantcribba, Mr Richard Morris, Gaer, Mr Langford, Chirbury Hall, M'r Pryse, Mr Shuker, Heightley, Mr Farmer, Winsbury, Mr Richard Williams, Mellington, Mr John Mickleburgh, Mr Ward, Crankwell, Mr Jones, Stalloe, Mr Hilton, Sutton, Mr Stephen Williams, Mr John Humphreys, Rectory, Mr Williams, Trwstlewelyn, Air Geo. Waidson, Berriew, Mr Evan Owen, Halfway House, Mr Miller, The Court, Mr Martin, Kerry, Mr Edwd. Morris, Gwernygoe, Mr Halford, Glanhafren, Mr Kinsey, Glanmehely." Mr ELLIS JONES seconded the proposition, which was also unanimously adopted. On the proposition of Mr SHUKER, seconded by Mr BEATTIE, the thanks of the meeting were accorded by acclamation to the Mayor, for his kindness in calling the meeting and pnsiding over it. The MAYOR, in acknowledgment, regretted that there had not been a larger attendance; still, the project looked promising, and he cordially hoped that they might succeed in carrying out their wishes. (Applause.) The meeting then separated. PETTY SESSIONS, TUESDAY.—Before T. Bowen, Esq. (mayor) E. T. D. Harrison, Esq., T. B. Barrett, Esq., and W. T. Parker, Esq. Charge of Waiting Water.-Henry Pryce, Edward Baines, ani John Adams were charged by Mr Clavton, surveyor, with wil- fully wasting water belonging to the Corporation, on the 29th of April.—Mr Clayton stated that a tap was placed in the yard where the defendants resided for their convenience. On the 29th inst. he found the tap turned on and the water running waste.— The offence was admitted, Mr Adams stating that he did not know how it came to be left on.-The Bench dismissed the case. Sheep Infected with Scab.—William Jones, Evan Herbert, and Isaac D ivies, farm servants, in the emoloy of Mr Whitehead, of Manchester, were charged with driving sheep that were infected with scab, on the 2nd of April.—P.O. Ellis stated that the sheep, ninety-five in number, were brought from Bellandon, a farm be- longing to the defendant, to Welshpool station. Witness went and inspected the sheep at the station, and found them to be in- fected with the scab.—Mr Whi-kin, veterinary surgeon, stated that he examined the sheep whilst at the station, and found that they were infected the disease W"S certainly not at its worst state. The sheep had been treated for scab, and were in a fair way of recovery.—Mr Whitehead, of Manchester, owner of the sheep, stated that the offence was committed through ignorance. When the sheep reached Manchester he had them all examined, and they were condemned. He felt sorry that any offence had been committed.—The Bench informed the defendants that they had made themselves liable to a fine of £5 for each animal, but in this case a fine of Is. for each animal would be inflicted- making a total fine of 15s. upon each defendant, together with the costs, which amounted to £2 8s.-The money was paid. Breaches of the Peace.—Thomas Matthews and Richard Mor- gan were charged with committing a breach of the peace by fighting, on the Brd of April. The case was proved bv P. C. Ellis, and the defendants were fined 5s., and the costs.-Edward Edwards, labourer, was charged with being drunk and com- mitting a breach of th;, peace by fighting, on the night of the 2nd inst. P.C. Ellis proved finding defendant in a field near the Raven on the night of the 2nd. Defendant was fighting, but witness was unable to ascertain the name of the other person. Defendant said hewas obliged to fight.-A fine of 5s., and costs, was inflicted; in default of payment, seven days' imprisonment, with hard labour. Charge of Stealing Milk from Coxes.—Martha Gardener and Mary Jone", b,)th of Powell's Row, Welshpool, were charged by Mr Humphries, of the Buck Inn, with unlawfully milking cows in his field on Saturday, the 9th inst.-Mr Humphries stated that some cattle wero brought to his field on Saturday by two cattle dealers, awaiting the fair. On previous occasions witness had been troubled by parties going and milking the cows, and several times he had to apply to the police to put a stop to the practice. On Saturday last a police officer was sent to the field' and found the :defendants in the act of milking some of the cows; they had also a quantity of milk in cans whiJh they car- ried. Witness stated that he did not wish to press the charge against the defendants, but had brought it forward as an example to others.-The defendauts were severely repremanded by the Bench and discharged. Drunk and Refusing to Quit.—James O'Brien was charged with being drunk anrl refusing to quit the Three Tuns Inn on the night of the 9th.-The case was proved by Miss Ruscoe, a person living in the house, who stated that the police had to be called in to turn defendant out of the house.-Defendant was fined 5., and costs. Stealing Brushes.—Mary Ingram, a person wearing the Mont- gomery gaol dress, was brought up in custody on the charge of stealing three brushes, the property of Mr William Jones, pro- vision dealer, Welshpool, on the 9th inst.—Mr Jones stated that he had a number of brushes hanging by his door on the 29th ult. He saw defendant take the brushes from off a nail, and walk down the street. He followed prisoner, and afterwards gave her inti) custody.—P.C. Tanner s lid he took prisoner into custody, and ch irged her with stealing the brushes which were found in her possession. Prisoner, whilst in the lock-up, said she had applied at the workhouse for relief, but it had been re- fused.—Prisoner, in answer to the Mayor, preferred to have the case,decided by their worships, and in answer to the charge, sniil she looked at the brushes, but did not intend to steal them. -The Bench took into consid ration the time prisoner had been in gaol, and sentenced her to seven days' imprisonment, with hard labour. A Suspicious Character.—Mary Davies, a young girl, who said she was a native of Llynclys, was charged with being at the fair for an unlawful purpose on the previous day.—P.C. Lewis sa,id he noticed defendant making for the thickest of the crowd several times during the day, and about seven o'clock in the evening locked her up. When searched at the lock-up some bad money was found upon her.-Supt. Strefford said the prisoner had been convicted several times before by the Shropshire magistrates, and was at presert under the supervision of the Eolice.—The Mayor informed defendant that she was liable to e sent to prison for three months, but considering she had been in gaol all night, she would be discharged on promising not to appear in Welshpool again. A Neighbours' Quarrel.—Caroline Griffiths, of Nevill's-passage, was charged with .assaulting Ann Evans, of the same place.- The complainant's story was that defendant came to her (com- plainant.s) house, and tore a shawl from off her neck and struck her twice. Complainant wished to have defendant bound over to keep the peace.—Defendant admitted going into the house, but denied striking complainant, at the same time admitting that she gave her a push; complainant had been very aggra- vating to defendant, and had accused her of robbing a person, which was untrue.-The Benph informed defendant that she had another remedy besides striking complainant, and as an assault had been committed, she would be fined 8s., costs in- cluded. Drunk at the Fair.-Job Rider, a pauper and an inmate of the workhouse, was charged with being drunk the previous day.— P.C. Tanner proved the case, and Superintendent Strefford stated that defendant never was sober when he got leave of ab- sence. The Bench discharged the defendant, and ordered the police to tell the master of the workhouse that defendant was not a fit person to be let out of the house, especially on market and fair days.—James Jones, a farm servant, was charged by P.C. Tanner with being drank and riotous the previous day. Defendant was fined 5s.; in default of payment seven days' im- prisonment-—Richard Jones, butcher, High-street, was charged with being drunk and riotous on the 8th inst. Defendant, who is an old offender, was this time fined X2; in default of payment, one month's imprisonment. Deserting from the Militia.-John Jones was brought up in custody find charged with deserting from the Montgomeryshire Militia during the training in 1869.-Sergeant Keating proved that defendant absented himself, and that he had been reported" at the War Office as a deserter.-Prisoner said the reason he could not attend was owing to his having been committed to Salop gaol for an assault. Prisoner also said he was perfectly willing to go back to the regiment.-The Bench stated that they would report to the War Office that defendant was willing to return to the regiment. Charge of Stealing a Hat.— Richard Orley was charged with stealing a hat, valued at 4s. 6d., the property of a farm servant named Thomas Jones.—Prosecutor stated that he went to the Gullet Inn the previous day, and, after eating some meat, fell asleep in the kitchen when he awoke, R person who was in the house stated that prisoner had taken his (witness's) hat. Hi afterwards gave information to the police. Witness identified the hat produced by P.C. Ellis as the one he lost.-P.C. Ellis stated that he apprehended the prisoner between eight and nine o'clock; prisoner was wearing the hat produced at the time. Prisoner, when apprehended, stated that he had lost his hat in the Gullet, and found the hat produced on the floor.- Prisoner e'ected to be tried by their Worships, and pleaded not guilty, stating that he fell asleep in the Gullet, and whilst asleep bis hat fell off. On waking up he saw a hat on the floor, which he took to be his, and put it on his hea^.—The Bench, after considering the case, said there appeared to be a doubt about the matter; the benefit of the doubt would be given to prisoner, and he was accordingly discharged. The New Magistrates.—This being the first meeting of the justices after the granting of a separate commission of the peace for the borough, it was proposed by the Mayor, and unanimously res >lved, that Air Edward Jones be the clerk to the justices for the borough of Welshpool.—Mr Jones, in a few re- marks, thanked their Worships, saying that he would endeavour to discharge the duties of the office to the best of his abilities. This terminated the business.

MACHYNLLETH. SUDDEN DEATH.—On Tuesday an inquest was held by Dr D. R. Pughe, at Bronfynnon, Darowen, upon the body of Rees Jones, a child aged two-and-a-half years. From the evidence it appeared that the deceased was sub- ject to fits, and succumbed to a violent attack on Sunday morning. Verdict-" Death from natural causes." BOARD OF GUARDIANS, WEDNESDAY.-Present: Mr Edward Davies, {deputy-chairman Messrs R. Gillart, G. W. Griffiths, John Owen, John Davies, Robert Roberts, Griffith Griffiths, John Jones (Pennal), Evan Jones, and William Bebb Mr David Evans, assistant clerk. THE MASTER'S REPORT. Mr Thomas Thomas, master of the house, reported the number of inmates to be 34, 9 males, 11 females, and 14 children, and that 46 tramps had been admitted during the last fortnight. 0 THE EQUALIZATION OF POOR RATES. Prior to confirming the minutes of the last meeting, Mr EDWARD DAVIES said that the amendment upon his motion for the equalization of poor rates had been carried under a misapprehension, many of the guardians not un- derstanding what was going on otherwise his original motion would have been adopted by a majority. Mr OWEN said that the question had been very fairly and clearly put before the guardians. Mr GILLART thought that the subject ought now to be buried in oblivion, and that having been decided by the majority it should not be re-introduced. Mr EDWARD DAVIES wished simply to make the ex- planation. THE INSPECTORSHIP OF NUISANCES FOR MACHYNLLETH. A letter was read from the Chief Constable, expressing an opinion that the Court of Quarter Sessions would not sanction the appointment of a police officer as inspector of nuisances for Machynlleth, the Court having objected to the late Mr Hodgson occupying such an appointment under the guardians of the Llanfyllin Union. A letter was read from Mr Lumley Edwards, applying for re-elec- tion. Mr GILLART said that the salary had hitherto been paid by public subscriptions, but the balance being rather low, the town guardians wished to refer the appointment to the guardians. Mr G. W. GRIFFITHS said that the inspector was en- gaged at a weekly salary. As there was a very small Board, he would move that the permanent appointment be deferred until the next Board meeting, This was seconded by Mr GILLART and adopted. CORRESPONDENCE. Letters were read from the Poor-law Board sanctioning the payment of £10 to the clerk of the Assessment Com- mittee, and the appointment of the district medical officers. THE SANITARY DESTITUTION OF MACHYNLLETH. Mr LUMLEY EDWARDS attended before the Board and said that the sanitary condition of the town had greatly improved during the past few weeks, since the committee had taken it in hand. In reply to queries put by the guardians, Mr EDWARDS said he had no report to present. Mr GILLART said that it was very desirable that the in- spector should present some written report to the guar- dians, and he was instructed to have one prepared by the next Board. COMPLIMENTARY. Mr EDWARD DAVIES said that this being the last meet- ing of the present Board, he thought that they should not break up without passing a complimentary vote of thanks to their chairman (the Rev. W. G. Davies) for the able manner in which he had discharged his duties during the year. He regretted that Mr Davies was not present in person to receive the compliment which the guardians wished to pay him. During the last year the guardians had not had the honour of seeing Mr Davies so frequently as they would have wished, owing to severe domestic affliction in his family, which was a cause of deep regret for the Board, who sincerely sympathized with their chairman in his affliction. The guardians had always ex- perienced the utmost courtesy at the hands of their chair- man-had always found him ready and willing in the proper discharge of his duties, and always the gentleman. (Hear, hear.) He moved that the cordial thanks of the Board be given to the Rev. W. G. Davies for his conduct in the chair during the past year. (Hear, hear.) Mr GILLART expressed the pleasure he felt in seconding the motion, and fully concurred in all that had fallen from Mr Edward Davies. The motion having been carried unanimously, Mr GILLART proposed a vote of thanks to the two vice- chairmen, the Rev. Thomas Davies and Mr Edward Davies, for their services during the year. He trusted that the same unanimity which had prevailed in past years would continue. Mr G. W. GRIFFITHS seconded the motion. Mr EDWARD DAVIES, in acknowledging the vote of thanks, said he considered that the services of their clerk, Mr David Howell, should not be permitted to pass unrecognized. Mr Howell had told him that it was not usual to pass a vote of thanks to the clerks of the Union, but he (Mr Davies) thought that it should be so, when the clerk deserved such a compliment. He moved that the Board expresses its sense of the ability and faithfulness with which its clerk, Mr Howell, the assistant-clerks, and the officers of the Union, have discharged their duties during the past year, thus acknowledging that the guardians were aware that their officers had discharged their duties to the satisfaction of the Board. (Hear, hear.) The motion was seconded by Mr GILLART, and carried. THE VACCINATION LISTS. Dr Lloyd, Dr Griffiths, and Dr D. R. Pughe attended before the Board with reference to the vaccination lists, which were laid before the Board by the district registrars. Falling in with a suggestion urged by Dr GRIFFITHS, it was resolved that a special day should be appointed for the vaccination of defaulters throughout the Union, such day to be fixed by the medical officers, and notices to be served upon such defaulters, and this failing, immediate steps for prosecution to be taken. MISCELLANEA. Amount of out-door relief for the past fortnight :—Mr Edward Bell, Pennal district, 265 9s. 1 d. Mr Lewis Williams, Machynlleth, 957 4s. 2d. Mr Daniel Howell, Darowen, R51 6s. 2d.; total amount, 2173 19s. 5d.

REVIEW OF THE BRITISH CORN TRADE. (From the Mark Lane Express.) Although the cold influence of March was still felt at the opening of the week, this gave place under a change of wind to brilliant sunshine, and a much higher tempera- ture. The nights, however, have been mostly cold, and vegetation, for the want of warm rain, still looks very backward. It has, however, been all that could be desired for the completion of sowing the Lent corn, and a large breadth has now been got in, together with much potato planting, so that the seasonable showers already promise complete alteration in the face of the country. No prac- tical man seems to apprehend any harm from the lateness complained of, either to the corn or fruit, but in France the dry weather has affected the price of oats. Still one dav's heavy rain would set all matters straight, and as we have not yet got half through April, who can doubt that this will come ? The change already experienced has taken off the upward bearing of the wheat trade, and most mar- kets have reported more dulness, or some even a decline of Is. But there is nothing to j ustify any sweeping reduction of the low rates now ruling. Shipments on their way are light compared with our necessities, the granaries have had a steady draught upon their stores, and although the open- ing of the Baltic may produce some fears, prices there are too near our own, and stocks not so over abundant as to force liberal shipments. If the London arrivals from the country have for some time been small, we again note a large increase in the general weekly deliveries, viz., 18,452 qrs., at 3s. lid. below last year's rates. This peculiarity has obtained the notice of the French, who very naturally infer that we have under estimated last year's crop but with stocks and the barns thinning in the country, and, stores in London and other parts diminishing also, the onus which has weighed down the trade must be gradually frittering away, and bring a chance of recovered vitality. Although Marseilles is in calm, Paris and many other country markets have been dearer for wheat; and it is the same in Belgium, while Holland has kept steady, as well as most of Germany and Hungary. New York, however, again shows weakness, but even at the present reduction in wheat there is not a profitable margin between prices, and we must wait till the end of the present month to ascertain the extent of the supplies which we are likely to receive from this quarter. The sales of English wheat noted last week were 61,330 qrs. at 42s. 5J., against 42,878 qrs at 46s. 4d. in 1869.

WELSH-SPEAKING BISHOPS. [We are requested to insert the following letter which has ap- peared in the Oswestry Advertizer.] SIR,- Your paragraph in last week's journal upon Welsh-speaking bishops" has found its way to all the metropolitan and most of the provincial papers, which will naturally give our Saxon neighbours an impression that we Ancient Britons were complaining without a cause. Now all who know anything of our language, know that Welshmen only can give it that force of expression which is its chief characteristic, and which brings with it con- viction to the heart. No doubt many of your readers have heard English Welsh-speaking" dignitaries of our church, and have been far more amused than edified by their parrot-taught eloquence. What would our English neighbours have said ere this, had their sees been filled with French English-speaking bishops for the last 1.50 years. Further comment would be unnecessary. Yours truly, Bodllwyd, April 11th, 1870. JOHN LLOYD.

A man named Patrick Kirwin, care-taker to Mr Clark, Holy Cross, Cashel, was murdered last Monday night. The Hon. Geo. Greville was selected on Tuesday, by a county meeting, as candidate for the county of Longford.