The Rhyl Advertiser

ENGLAND AND THE SOUDAN- TIIK recent evenis in the Soudan Lave exer- cised over the British public an influence which :s represented by a etrange divergency and a wide diilerence of opinion with regard to the action which Her MAJESTY'3 Govern- ment ought to take at the present critical period. In the Liberal party itself, and probably even in the Cabinet itself, there is no rinnrniriity of opinion. It is the csauixc uf I.ibor-ih^m tlat its r.iofesior:; I should vary in their sentiments, and hold different views on the self-same subject. Liberalism means progress, and as the speed of the different competitors in a race is a variable quantity, so it is with the pioneers of progress-some would move on rapidly, others less rapidly, while again a few would prefer a tardy movement. It follows then that we ought not to wonder at the want of an agreement, or at the absence of a concensus of opinion on the future of the all-absorbing, topic of the war in Egypt. There are Liberals who maintain [that GORDON should be avenged and the MARDI punished, that the Soudan should be conquered, and that the old boundaries of Egypt should be re- covered and maintained by force of British arms and with British money. Others again assert that the first duty of the Gov- ernment is to adopt measures for the safe withdrawal of the English troops now in the Soudan. Then there are again Liberals. and Liberal members of Parliament, of which Mr LABOUCHEBE, the senior member for Northamption, may be taken as a type, who aver that as we had never any business to send an armed force into Egypt, so we ought to get out of that ill-stnrred country as soon as we can, that we should souttle out of that country with bag and baggage as speedily as possible, and leave Egypt and its bondholders to their fate. Lastly, there are a few Liberals, but only a few, who would go in for taking possession of Egypt. This, we believe, to be the real opinion and the undisclosed policy of the whole ot the Tory party, i.e., if they have a policy at all. The Jingoes of London, too, would revel in this idea, and they would invoke the spirit of the late Earl of BEACONSFIELD and swear that there was nothing like a splendid foreign policy. Amidst this chaos of conflicting opinions it is difficult to steer a middle course, and to indicate a path which may lead to safety and attain it with honour. The effort is not an ignoble one, nor will the attempt, even if it prove futile, be altogether useless. It may then be made. There are politicians who years ago saw thit if the rising made by the MAHDI should be attended with some degree of success, he would gradually advance northwards, and would at last threaten Cairo itself. Now success, to some extent, has been achieved by the MAHDI he has got posesession of ( Khartoum, and unless he be repulsed in that district there is not the shadow of a doubt but that he will sweep down the valley of the Nile with his horde of half-savages. That march would be made under the lead of the PROPHET'S flag. There is but one God, and MAHOMET is his Prophet would be the battle cry, and it would be loudly proclaimed that the Cross was retreating before the crescent. From the banks of the Nile to the banks of the Ganges would the boast be re- echoed, and the swarthy inhabitants of India would learn that their swarthy fellow-wor- shippers in Affrica were triumphing over the giaour. That cry might be fatal to our Indian Empire, for we have there millions of Mahommedan subjects. It is the duty, then, of the statesmen to provide against such a contingeucy, and to take those steps which are necessary to remove it into the regions of the impossible. The first step, then, in this direction would be to stem the advancing movement of the MAHDI. To the Soudan and its wild inhabitants, he is welcome. England has no claim in it, nor has she any wish for it. A position, however, somewhere must be maintained. To tho savage a boundary must be assigned whither he may come, but no further. When that position has been established, and that boundary assigned, then may our brave soldiers be withdrawn, but not a day earlier. A large amount of misapprehension seems to exist also with regard to the mission of General GORDON. His mission was one of peace. Ho was to effect the release of the imprisoned garrisons by diplomatic measures, and then to withdraw. This he was unable to effect, and then he commenced making war on the MAHDI, who in his turn kept him shut up in Khartoum. As it was in response to the Tory demand and to the Tory outcry that GORDON was sent, so it was in response to their reiterated cry that Lord WOLSELEY was also sent with a military force to effect the release of GORDON. Votes of censure on the policy and action of the Government have been brought over and over again. They have failed in the object directly aimed at, viz., the overthrow of the Government, but they have succeeded in forcirg its hands. In all probability, too, before we are another week older we shall again have Parliament occupied in discussing the terms of another vote of censure, and with a like result. In a speech delivered at Liverpool on Wednesday evening last, Mr H. RICHARD, the honourable member for Merthyr Tydfil, after giving an exposition of the action taken by Lord BEACONSFIELD'S Government in the matter of Egypt, and of its being the real origin and the direct cause of our being compelled to meddle with the affairs of that country, said "I say that is what tho Tories are doing. I contend that all these complications in Egypt have sprung originally from their policy. During the whole of these conflicts m the Soudan they have dono everything in their power to push the Government forward, and when the Government yield to them they stand by and reproach them; but we are the true friends of the Government, and we will do what we can in genuine loyalty to Mr. GLADSTONE. We will help the man whom we honour and love, and tho Government of which he is the head, and will try to keep them from going in a false path which will lead to further disaster and dishonour. We want them to pursue a path of peace, and that is the path of safety." These words afford an index to the fate of the new vote of censure. When a man like Mr. RICEABD, who has always been an Apostle of Peace, declares his loyalty to the Government in such unfaltering terms as the above, the hopes of a Liberal defection grow weak, and without a considerable Liberal defection there can be no majority against tho Government. The Egyptian legacy of the late Tory Government, liko that of Southern Africa, has been not not only an unprofitable one, but a source of trouble, of anxiety, and of expense, and at present no one can foresee the end of that tiouble or a limit to that ex- pense. U e may however place inplicit con- fidence in the wisdom and statesmanlike qualities of the great men who are Her Gracious MAJESTY'S advisers.

Much satisfaction will be felt in Rhyl at I the announcement in another column that the Militia are not this year coming to camp near our town. Tho action taken by the majority of the residents last year has had the desired effect. The regiment will assemble for its annual training at Mold, which, besides being the county town, is in many respects far more suitable a place for that purpose than Ehyl, and the inhabitants of that town, if we understand their feelings rightly, will be equally gratified with the decision of the authorities, though for reasons; entirely different to our^'iv^c. It would be well if some means were adopted I to make [this fact as widely known as possible. Lodging-house keepers themselves can do much to assist us in doing this. »

Nothing has as yet been done by way of experiment for the improvement of our Promenade; at least we are unable to discover any evidence that anything has been done. At the January monthly meeting of the Commissioners a question was asked on the subject, and it was then strongly urged that the resolution passed by the Board some months previously should be acted upon. We have never known the Promenade to be in a worse condition than it is at the present time—the accumu- lation of sand along the whole length of it, as also on the East Parade road, is enormous. In the opinion of experienced men it will necessitate the employment of a numerous staff of workmen for many weeks before it can be put in anything like proper order. If anything is intended to be done this year, by way of trying to improve the Promenade, surely it is high time that the work should be commenced. Everybody is pleased with the improvement made in all our public streets—even to back roads; but why neglect the promenade, of all places ? ♦

The labour market has greatly improved of late in our town. There ara at present but a comparative few men who are not causally, if not constantly, employed, in addition to several public buildings, some of which will be completed before the season commences, there are a number of dwelling houses in cousre of erection in different parts of the town, and it is anticipated that others will be shortly commenced. This is very gratifying. We have passed through a severe crisis, the full extent of which perhaps only a very few had realized. The reaction which seem to have set in will, we hope, be a lasting one. »

Hardly a summer passes by without complaints being heard of some grievances from which the town suffers; and aa a rule the complaints come when it is too late to take effective measures to remedy the evils. Such was the case last yoar in; reference to the militia encampment. Not unfrequently the train service to and from Rhyl is a source of dissatisfaction. The Commissioners took action in regard to this matter last year with beneficial results, but still it was felt that there was room for improvement. If a similar action be taken again this year, in good time probably Rhyl, might secure all it desires. ♦

The people of St. Asaph are moving in the matter of procuring a fire engine for the city. Recent experiences have aroused them to a sense of the urgent necessity for such a valu- able means of protecting life and property. A subscription list,bandsomely headed by the DEAN, has been opened for that purpose. At the last meeting of the Board of Guardians an application was rceived for a contribution towards the fire engine fund. No doubt the safety of the" house" and its inmates, is a matter for consideration; but we doubt whether the Local Government Board would sanction the devoting of any portion of the ratepayers' money in that way. However, the Board's decision on the matter has been deferred. »

Our readers will be pleased to learn that the health of Mr. W. M. CLARKE, of Hendregyda. one of the respected vice-chairmen of the St. Asaph Board of Guardians; is gradually improving. Mr CLARKE has been indisposed for some time. ♦

We are sorry that we are compelled to again complain of the conduct of some of the young men who visit the Y.M.C.A. Reading Room. The question is often asked —Why is the reading room so poorly patronized ? Speaking from experience, we feel certain that the uproarious noise so often heard there must be one reason for it. Loud whistling, singing and talking, especially such as is carried on in the upper room, is much better suited for the open air than for a public reading room. And the custodian, who is very attentive to his duties, appears to be powerless to quell the dis- turbance. We do not exaggerate the case. Smoking too is indulged in on the premises, which is very obnoxious to many. Again we aflirm that wa are sorry we have to repeat these complaints, and we do so simply with a desire, if possible, to put an end to the evil. That it does exist, all who frequent the rooms can testify.

ST. ASAPH BOARD OF GUARDIANS. THURSDAY.—Present P. P. Pennant, Esq. (in the chair), E. Morgan, Esq. (vice-chairman), Messrs S. Perks, T. Winston, B. Littler Rhyl; W. Bell, Rhuddlan; J. Vaughan, Dd. Edwards, William Ellis, Abergele; J. D. Jonea, Bodoryn R. Roberts, Llan- ddulBs J. Knowles, Denbigh J. Roberts, Eoxball T. Parry, Yaenol; W. Williams, Prestatyn Joseph Lloyd, St. Asaph John Roberts, Geinas. THE HOUSE The Master's books shewed the number of inmates at the last Board day to be 149 discharged since, 8 admitted, 9 remaining in the house this day, 150; corresponding period last year, 137 increase, 13. Vagrants relieved during the past fortnight, 63; cor- responding period last year, 44 showing an increase of 19. A letter was road from Mise Hughes, The Palace, regarding two orphans, Bged 9 and 7 respectively, who now live with their grand- father, Joseph Pierce, and are in receipt of 2s. outrelief weekly. An offer was made to take the children to an industrial school at Torquay, which is under the charge of Lady Erskino. The management of that establish- ment undertake to provide all necessaries, instructjthe children, and obtain employment for them when old enough to go to service. The Guardians were asked to provide three out'its and travelling expenses for each child. It was resolved to allow £3 18s. Od for the outfits, and travelling expenses, on the motion of Mr Jos. Lloyd. THE LATE MRS. SAMPSON JOKES, A letter from Mr Parry Jones was read, Baying that his client was prepared to pay the j631 Os. 5J. claimed by the Board for the maintenance of Mis Sampson Jones, on con- dition that all the goods belonging to Mrs Jones should bo handed over forthwith on payment of the claim.—Accepted. FIRE ENGINE FOR ST. ASAPH. Mr Charles Mansbridge, captain of the Cathedral Fire Brigade, wrote asking the Board to contribute towards providing a fire engine, so as to extend the operations of the brigade in the city and neighbourhood, and he gave a list of gentlemen who had pro. mised subscriptions. Mr Joseph Lloyd was of opinion that the Board as such had no power to do anything in the matter, but if the gentry of the neigh- bourhood sutscribed and purchased a ma- chine, then ho thought the vestry had power to keep it in order. The Chairman observed that if a fire broke out in the house an engine would be very useful. Mr Lloyd thought they must pay for its use. Mr Parry (Veenol)-Dynamite is now more dangerous than fire. A fire engine would not stop that (laughter). It was resolved to write to Mr Mansbridge, asking for further particulars as to what rules would govern the operations of the brigade. WHAT BECOMES OF THE CHILDREN ? A communication was received from the Local Government Board stating that 213 odd, the portion of that Board of the vaccina- tion fees, had been paid into the bank. It was reported that during the half year ended 30th of June last, there were 189 births in the district of St. Asaph-182 were successfully vaccinated, and 7 not accounted for; Den. bigh, 130 births, 1 not accounted for; Aber. gele, 73 births, all accounted for. PROPOSED CHANGES IN THE COOKING AR- RANGEMENTS. This meeting was made special to consider the above question. The Chairman said that the most business- like way of proceeding would be to appoint a oompetent committee to consider the matter, and report thereon. Mr Joseph Lloyd said he had had some communication with the Master on the sub- ject, and found that about 173 tons of coal were used annually, and that 80 tons could be saved. That meant a saving of £ 48 a year. He acquiesced in the view of the Chairman to appoint a committee, and named Mr Yorke, Dyffryn Aled, and Mr J. Kendall as very experienced men, and who would be very useful on the committee. The Chairman proposed that such commit. tee be appointed. This being seconded by Mr D. Edwards, and carried, the following were appointed committee :—The Chairman, Vice- chairmen, Messrs Yorke, Kendall, Bell, John Roberts (Geinas), and Joseph Lloyd.

FOOTBALL NOTES. Chester, St. John's,disappointed the Rhyl club in its club fixture advertised to be played at the New- town ground last Saturday. It appears they were unable to muster more than eight men, and their secretary in explanation wrote stating that with such a team they would not think of meeting such a club as Rhyl, particularly bearing in mind a defeat to the tune of 8 goals and two disputed to nil, which befell them on their last year's visit The disappointment, however, was very annoying, as the match had been well advertised, and many attended in the expectation of seeing a good match, but were disappointed. The public will before long have so little confidence in advertised football matches that they will not care to attend unless they see posted up that the so and so team have arrived! There is a decided improvement in the Rhyl club with regard to keeping its fixtures, and the captain and secretary and one or two other members are to be commended for their unflagging efforts to keep up the good name of the club in this direction. Were all the playing members act- tuated by the same spirit it would tend to material- ly benefit the club both in efficiency and monetarily. The Rhyl Gardens club played a friendly match with a team from the Bangor club, on the Gardens ground on Saturday, and were defeated by 2 goals to none. Williams (captain) played well for the home team. To-day the Rhyl first team play a friendly match with the celebrated Welsh Druids at Ruabon, which, will be excellent praotice for them, prepara- tory to the keen struggle that will take place for the cup with Llanrwst next Saturday. The Rhyl second team also have a fixture from home to-day, with the Bangor second team. Both teams will have good games, and doubtless will be tho means of giving their opponents good gates IN TOUCH.

THE HUNT BALL AT ST. ASAPH. As we announced briefly last week the Hunt Ball was held at the ball room of the Plough hotel. Mrs Anderson was highly complimented by mem- bers of the hunt for the very satisfactory way in which the refreshment and general arrangements were carried out. The ball was undoubtedly the best that has been held. Mr Charles Stephenson, as we stated last week, supplied the music. A con. temporary has it that Mr Stephenson provided a Juvenile E and." That may be, but our repor- ter asserts that to his vision, the performers ap- peared rather too ancient to be distinguished as Juveniles." Be that as it may, if the baud was a juvenile one,Jits playing was extraordinary, and if it only stick together till it attains mature age, we may expect it to be the perfection of a string band. The attendance included the following — Mordon Party.—Mrs Lewis Morgan, Miss O'Cal. Iaghan, Miss L. B. Morgan, Miss Morgan, Mr G. O'Gallaghan, Mr R. Miller, Mr H. Burd, Mr A. L Cripps, Mr L. Morgan, Mr Twiston Morgan. Istrad Party.-Lieut-Col. and Mrs Hughes, the Misses Hughes, Mrs and Miss Griffith Boscawen, Trevalyn Hall Miss Wood and Miss Maud Wood, Culmington Manor, Salop Mr A. P. Lane, Mr W. Standisb, Mr Edwards, Mr Dobinson. Maes Elwy Party.-Major and Mrs Birch, Miss Birch, Miss Nett L. Birch, Mis Davies-Cooke, Miss Davies-Cooke, Mr Jesse, and Mr G. Blezard. Cefn Party.—Mrs Williams-Wynn, Miss Wil- liams-Wynn, Miss Leche, Miss Ethelston, Miss Herby, Capt. Lovett, Mr Bibby, Mr Ethelston, Mr R. Williams- Wynn, Mr and Mrs H. Williams- Wynn. Wigfair Party.—Capt. and Mrs Howard, Miss Popham, Mr Wyndham Quin, Mr Cooper, and Mr Lyster. Plas Coch Party. Mrs Charlton Jones, Mr Charlton Jones, Miss Charlton Jones, Miss Raffles, Miss C. Raffles, Captain Osborne, Captain Gyes, Mr J. Bickerton. Nantllys Party.-Captain and Mrs Pennant, Misses Pennant (2), Misses Bankes (2), Miss Pear- son, Mr G. D. Mostyn. Bodrhyddan Party.—Captain and Mrs Conwy, Miss Wynn, Mr Buddicom, Col. Emerson Bruce. Galltfaenen Party.—Major Mainwaring, Mr R. K Mainwaring, Miss Mainwaring, Mrs Musters. Miss Musters, Mr., Mrs and Miss Tayleur, Mr H. Duff, Mr C. M. Owen. Talardy Party.—Miss Hutton, Miss Violet Hut- ton, Miss Maude Hutton, Hon. R. Mostyn, Sir Fitzory and Lady Maclean. Bodgwilym Party.—Mrs Lloyd Williams, Misses Lloyd Williams (2), Mr H. Lloyd Williams, Mr J. R. Lloyd Williams, Mr R. F. Godfrey, Mr J. H. iiibby. Major and Mrs Lynch Fletcher, Miss Eleanor Heaton, Mr Arthur Heaton, Mr and Mrs J. P. Lewis, Miss Griffith, Miss Foulkes, Mr J. H. Ber- thon, Miss G. Berthon, Mr and Miss Wynn, Major and Mrs Norman, Mrs and Miss Evans, Tros y pare Mr and Mrs R. F. Sisson, Llewelyn and Mrs Lloyd, Ty'n Rhyl Miss Andrew, Mr W. Rawson Shaw, Capt. and Mrs Morgan, Miss Hore, Arthur Monek, Mr Tumour, Mr Potts, Mr J. M. Cane, Mr G. W. Robins, Mr Davies-Cooke, Miss E. Davies-Cooke, Mr Swann, Capt. Everard, Mr A. L. Mauley, J. Davies, Lieut. Guise, Miss Tumour, Mr R. F. Godfrey. Kinmel Party.—Mr H. R. Hughes (Lord Lieu. tenant of Flintshire), and Lady Florentia Hughes, the Misses HugheS (3), Mr and Mrs St. John Charlton, Mr Middleton Biddulph, the Misses Middleton Biddulph (2), Hon. Miss Clive, Hon. vol. Savage Mostyn, Mr Gwynne, Mr Dudley Ryder, Mr Massey, &0. ♦

[ADVERTISEMENT.] Tho English Presbyterians hold their annual tea meeting and concert next Friday, the 27th instant. Tea 'it Brighton road lecture-room at 4 o'clock, and the concert will be held at the Town Hall, at eight o'clock. We should say, from the arraj of talent engaged for this concert, that it will prove a most successful and entertaining one. We are informed that Miss Gayney Griffith, U.C.W., will sing From mighty K ings Handel. "Heaven and Earth Pinsuti. "Softly ighs I Weber. Miss Fanny Richards (pupil of Dr. Rogers, Bangor), will sing It was a dream Cowen. Gwraig y Morwr Dr. Parry. "Swinging" Watton. Mr J. T. Jones, Tenor (of the Liverpool Concerts), will sing Loves Request Reichardt. The Blue Alsatian Mountains S. Adams. Mr E. Edwards, Tenor (of the Hope Hall Con- certs), Liverpocl, will sing In this old ebair Balse. I am waitidg Birch. Mr O. J. Rowlands, Baritone (of the Liverpool Concerts), will sing I never can forget Mellon. Trusty as steel Pinsuti. The Cambrian Prize Quartette, the winners of the first prize (male voices) at the Liverpool Eis- teddfod, and who were so highly complimented by Sir George A. McFarren in his adjudication at that time, will sing Jeiiny Jones Arranged by Skeaf. The Tar's Song" Hatton. By Celia's Arbour Horsley. Other duetts and trios will also be rendered. .SK Annie Brown, ft. A.M., wiil accompany on the pianoforte.

FRANCE AND BURMAH. XJ The Calcutta correspondent of the Times Btattfc News received from Rangoon further confirms tM rumour as to the alleged treaty between France q4 Burmah. It is stated that the treaty cedes to Erau<$k the Shan States east of the Salwen, and also tip Mogoung ruby mines, while 500 French soldiers are to be allowed to act as a guard to the miners. The Burmese Government is to be permitted to import arm. and ammunition through Tonquin. A Burmese Am- bassador is to reside permanently in Paris, and a French Resident at Mandalay. It is further alleged that the French promise the Burmese protection against British encroachments. Although most of these details require confirmation, they are evidently believed at Rangoon, and are causing much excite- ment there.

DUTY ON HERRINGS. On Monday a deputation from the principal herring fishery ports in Scotland waited on the Scotch Fishery Board in Edinburgh with reference to the increased duty on herrings exported into Russia and the pro- posed increase of the duty on herrings exported into Germany. Mr. M'Combie, of Peterhead, a member of the deputation, said that it was proposed in Russia and Germany to increase the duty on Scotch herrings by 50 per cent. in Russia that would amount to about 35 per cent. upon the estimated value of the article and in Germany to 25 per cent. on the esti- mated value. The reasons given for the increased duty were that it would encourage the fisheries in those countries, but it would certainly have a very injurious effect on the fisheries of this country. Sir Thomas J. Boyd, chairman of the board, said that their attention had all rsady been called to the matter, and although the board understood that the duty had already been put on the herrings in Russia they had had no official intimation of the fact. They intended, however, to approach the Home Secretary in regard to the subject.

PETITION OF AN IRISH EX-CONVICT. On Monday, Earl Spencer, the Lord Lieutenant, replied to a second petition on behalf of the ex-oon- vict, Brian Kilmartin, who was released after serving two years in Chatham Prison, having been sent- enced to penal servitude for life for shooting a bailiff in Arran Island. His release was brought about by the dying confession of a man that he was innocent, and he seeks compensation from the Crown. In the present petition Kilmartin sought to prove his perfect innocence of participation in the crime. Mr. Gladstone having stated that compensation was never granted except undoubted innocence was proved, Kilmartin says if he was made aware on the day of his return that a stigma would thus be placed upon his character he would not have accepted his release. He would, he says, rather be the victim of an early grave in Chatham prison than carry tho stigma of a would-be assassin upon him. lie again assures his Excellency that he had no com- plicity or participation in the crime. To this the Lord Lieutenant replies that he sees no reason to grant a further inquiry into his case, or to alter the decision already arrived at.

PROTECTION AND LARGE ESTATES. In the Reichstag on Saturday, Prince Bismarck, after declaring his aversion to large estates and ex- pressing himself greatly in favour of the partition and dismemberment of great landed properties, said "The landowners who live on their estates are not the worst, but rather those who live in a city, be it Paris, Rome, or Berlin, and only demand money from their stewards without representing their tenants in Parliament or elsewhere concerning themselves about their welfare. Therein lies the misery of great estates; but proprietors who live in the country are, under the circumstances, a great blessing, and very useful. If England, by re- taining her present corn legislation, allows her land- lords to be gradually ruined, I do not believe that will be advantageous to the future of England or the prosperity of the rural population. Those land- owners will then live in town on their rents, summer and winter, without knowing anything of country live, or at most will leave the city only for a fashion- able hunting-party. I regard it as one of the most essential advantages of German life that a great part of our wealthy classes live in the country the entire year round, and carry on agriculture directly and for themselves."

POLITICS IN THE PULPIT. At a meeting of the Kettering Liberal Association, addressed by Mr. H. Richard, M.P., a resolution was passed deploring the unhappy fate of General Gordon, and expressing an earnest hope that the Government will not prolong hostilities in the Soudan for purposes of revenge, or conquest, or military prestige, nor undertake any re- sponsibility for the government of that country, but make arrangements for withdrawing their troops at the earliest possible opportunity, leaving the people to manage their own affairs. The ministers of the Baptist, the Congregational, and Wesleyan chapels were then asked to put the re- solution to their congregations from the pulpit. The Baptist minister seems to have at once assented. The Congregationalist minister at first hesitated, but on being told later that the Baptist and Wesleyan were going to put it, he agreed. The Wesleyan minister distinctly refused, saying that his business in the pulpit was to preach the Gospel. Had it been otherwise, there would have been a scene, for members of his congregation had agreed to submit a counter resolution. The motion was carried at the Baptist Chapel with only one or two dissentients but at the Congregational, the greater part of the congregation declined to vote, while a goodly number held up their hands against it.

RITUALISM IN THE CHURCH. In consequence of a complaint made by a Mr. Hakes, respecting the ritual practised by the Rev. J. Bell Cox, incumbent of St. Margaret's, Princes-road, Liver- pool, the secretary of the Bishop wrote to Mr. Cox, calling attention to the altered circumstances with regard tothe rules of law laid down in such cases at the present date, as compared with those of four years ago, which circumstances rendered action on the part of the Bishop now necessary. Mr. Cox, in reply to the Bishop, points out that if it be right now to make concessions, it was right to do so five years ago, when his lordship punished him by refusing to license his curates, a prohibition which has been in force ever sinco. If Mr. Cox is worthy of prosecution now, he was so then. But four years ago the Bishop said in Convocation that he declined distinctly to sanction any prosecution, and Mr. Cox shews that the Bishop of a diocese haa the power of veto without assigning any reason. Mr. Cox also takes occasion to remind the Bishop that the report of the Royal Commission has tended to discredit the Ecclesiastical Courts by shewing that it was never intended that cases of doctrine and ritual should be tried in them. St. Margaret's, it is pointed out, has no aggrieved parishioners, and Mr. Hakes, the complainant, has nothing to do with the church, but comes as an outsider to disturb a united congrega- tion. The Bishop is also reminded that voluntary offerings have defrayed all the expenses of the services and the clergy of the church, which has no endow- ment. After the Bishop's kindness, it if, Mr. Cox concludes, all the more difficult for him to decline to accede to his lordship's request.

ROMANTIC STORY. Some further development of the litigation in connection with the will of the late Mrs. Catherine Bousfield, widow of Colonel Bousfield, is, it seems, likely to be witnessed. In the action recently heard before Mr. Justice Butt the lady's will was attacked on the ground that it was not duly executed and that she was not of sound mind at the time of making it. The jury, however, decided to the contrary, upholding the validity of the will. One of the provisions of the will was a legacy of £ 10,000 to Alexander John Barratt," and in the course of the hearing Mr. Russell, Q.C., M.P., sought to shew that no relative of the deceased of that name existed, but that the person intended was John Reginald Barratt. This was duly reported in the newspapers, one of which found its way to Russia, and into the hands of a Mr. Alexander John Barratt, practising the profession of mining engineer in a remote district of that country. The result was that, this gentleman communicated with Mr. F. Broad- bridge, solicitor, of Liverpool, claiming to be the legatee intended by the testator, and stating that his relationship to her was nearer than that of Mr. J. R. Barratt, he being a first cousin of Mrs. Bousfield. It is stated that the life of the new claimant has been a somewhat romantic one, he having some years ago had a disagreement with the members of his family in consequence of a affaire de crtur, and having been practically disowned. Ho left this country and dropped out of sight of "most of his relations, but his whereabouts and occupation were known to a Liverpool friend, by whom the news- paper report of the Bousfield will case, recently tried, w?.s forwarded to him. Mr. John Reginald Barratt, the other claimant to the legacy, is a Liverpool solici- tor.

While some men were carting turf from the Dirha bogs, near Listowel, they discovered the body of a man in a remarkable state of preservation. Near the body was a rude dish carved out of a block of pine or bog oak. Tho police have prevented a prize fight arranged to take place at Toton, near Nottingham. Several arrests were made, but the parties were subsequently liberated A recent discussion in the London Court ofCommon Council has brought to light the curious circumstance that the City possesses a valuable estate at the West- end, which Was let in the last century to various per- sons under leases into which by a mere oversight the words for ever had been permitted to be in. serted in connection with a right of renewal. Thus practicalfreeholds have been created, on the sole con- dition that the application for renewal is made in duo time. Someof these properties yieldingto the City a ground rent of only kS or 29 are fetching £ 800 or JNOO per annum. The present Home Secretary is said to be one of the fortunate leaseholders. "I nave never made a failure of anything J. ever undertook, said the seedy individual, ;*s heanswertd to he call of "have a drink?" "Your appearance belies your statement," said the other. How is it that you are in such a ragged state, if you never made a failure of anything you undertook? "Because," sadly smiled the other, wiping his lips, because everything I've attempted was a failure before I took hold of it."

VOLUNTEER CONCERT. On Monday evening a concert was held at the Town Hall, Rhyl, in aid of the band fund of the local Volunteer Corps. Colonel Cooke, the commanding officer of the Battalion, presided, and ihcre were present Capt. E. D. Wynne Jones, Major Norman (adjutant), and Lieutenant Wright; S. Roose, Esq., and Mrs Perks, T. Murray Browne, Esq., J.P., Misses Wright, Voryd Hall, &c. The following is a copy of the printed programme:—War march, band; song, "For- ward," Lance-corporal R. D. Roberts: duet, While old times," Private H. T. Roberts and Lance-corporal Williams baritone solo, from II Trovatore," Lance-corporal Williams; song, The Death of Nelson," Private H. T. Roberts j valse, Pansy Blossom," band; Distribution of prizes by Lieutenant Colonel Cooke; trio cornets, Bugler Sandoe, Color-sergeant Gamlin, and Bugler Gregory; song, "Love's Evensong," Miss AEhby; duet, Army and Navy," Private H. T. Roberts and Color-sergeant Gamlin song, (humorous) "Railway Porter," Sergeant Wallis cornet solo, from -'The Moorish Dame," Bugler Sandoe; song, "Up with the Standard of England," Lance-corporal R. D. Roberts selection, Rataplan," band finale, God save the Queen," band. Miss Ashby. was very well received, and will undoubtedly become a popular favourite in Rhyl. All the other performers were members of the oorps, and it is highly creditable to the" C "company that it possesses such fine material for a really good musioal entertainment. Lance Corporal Roberts sang fairly well, but he appeared to suffer from a slight cold. Neverthe- less his songs were very well rendered and received. Lance-oorporal Williams and Private H. T. Roberts acquitted themselves very well indeed, and the former as an instrumental soloist deserved the hearty encore for his baritone solo. "The Death of Nelson" by the latter brought down the house. The trio cornets by Color-sergeant Gamlin and Buglers Sandoo and Gregory, was an excellent performance, and the comet solo by Mr Sandoe was very creditable. A special featuro in the evening programme perhaps was tho duct, Army and Navy," by Messrs Gamlin and Roberts (Mr Gamlin having doffed the scarlet, and donned the blue of the Royal Navy.) They were loudly cheered and an encore was demanded. Notwithstanding that fact the duet did not seem to get the appreciation it merited. Sergeant Wallis was immense as Railway Porter," and when his incognita was penetrated by those of his comrades not in possession of a programme the applause was loud and prolonged. This was the first time for the band to appear in a concert. Their performance was a surprise to everybody, and the difference between their playing on Monday evening and their march music on Sunday was most marked. Their pro- gress must be gratifying to Mr Wrigley, who, by the way, gives his valuable services as instructor gratuitously. Now that the con- cert is over, perhaps we may expect little better quicksteps from them. One word to the band privately, do not open the valves of your instruments to release the accumulated fluid whilst leaving the stage, it looks bad. It will be observed that the second part of the programme was devoted to the distribution of prizes. Before proceeding to do so Colonel Cooke briefly addressed the audience. He said the Captain had kindly asked him to come over to distribute the prizes, and he was very glad to be able to do so. He did not wish to perform that duty in silence, and he would crave their indul- gence for a few minutes. These were momentous times—they heard of wars and rumours of wars everywhere; whether they converged cn the railways, or read in the newspapers, everything was war. No doubt their hearts were in the Soudan with General Wilson (loud applause), who with his gallant band of heroes marched over the sandy desert, and fought two battles. The eyes of all the world were on him then. He was nearly shaking hands with Gordon (applause). Everybody thought that that great and christian hero was safe, when by one fell swoop he was slain through treachery. He (the speaker) would not siy whose fault it was-history would hereafter relate that. Having referred to the courageous conduct of General Earle, who died-as every soldier wished to die, doing his duty-when so near victory, and other officers in the Soudan, he remarked that it would be long before England would forget the debt duo to them, and trusted it would not be long before they could come to receive that honour they so greatly merited. It behoved them as volunteers (he continued) to be ready for action. It was no use offering their services unless^therej was a chancelof them being accepted. When the time came he would offer his services with the full conviction that all those whom he commanded would follow his example and assist to maintain the honour and integrity of this great country. His duty that evening was to distributb prizes for good shooting and good attendance at drill. He, as a commanding officer, of course, would never be satisfied-but as an old linesman he was surprised that volunteers shewed such a degree of proficiency. The men must give up the best portion of their leisure hours to practise and drill, and they deserved the support of all sections. He was satisfied that a more respectable and intelligent body of men did not exist than those he had the honour to command (cheers) Colonel Cooke then distributed the prizes, Sergeant Wallis being the first prizeman for shooting, and as he stood up to receive it, the band played See the conquering hero comes The list of the successful competitors has already appeared in these columns, and there is no necessity for republishing it. Before giving out the drill prizes the Colonel sa;d he was sorry that the amounts were not equal to those for shooting, for drill was as important as shooting. He always found that those companies who shewed the best attendance were the most successful, and if the officers made good attendances, he found the men did so too.—Private Powell took first prize for attendance, and Private Wright the medal for the best aggregate score, and both were received with musical honours as they went forward. At the close Colonel Cooko moved a vote of thanks to the townspeople of Rhyl for their kindness in contributing towards the prizes, and to Miss Ashby for her kind service that evening, and to Professor Wrigley, who had for months past given his services in the instruction of the band gratuitously (loud cheers ) The motion having received the unanimous assent of the audience, Captain Wynne Jones pro- posed a vote of thanks to the Colonel whioh was carried with three cheers. Colonel Oooke replied, and the band played God save the Queen."

MOLD. DISTRICT MEETING. A meeting of the Denbigh District of the English Congregational Union was held here on Wednesday, the 11th inst. There was a numerous attendance of delegates and others. In the after- noon a conference was held, over which-in the unavoidable absence of the Rev. W. C. Evans, Cefn Mawr-Mr John Garside, presided. LETTER OF TRANSFER. A letter of transfer of the Rev T. H. Williams- who recently removed from Welshpool to Buckley —was read and he was very heartily and cordially received into the Union. EVANGELISTIC SERVICES. The question of evangelistic services in connection with the churches in the district was carefully considered. The secretary read a report of the special committee appointed at a previous meeting to deal with the matter and after a free discussion the report-with but slight alterations-was adopted; the churches to make arrangements for such meetings to suit their own convenience. MUSICAL FESTIVAL. The question of an annual musical festival for tha district next came under consideration. Very favourable reports were received from all the churches as to the desirability of forming such an asseciation for the improvement of congregational singing. The Rev. D. B. Evans gav9 a report showing the great success that had attended the first musical festival in connection with the Flintshire District held at Rhyl, in October last, and of which he is the Hon. Secretary. It was then unanimously agreed to form such an association in connection ,,<th that distxict union, and a committee was appointed to make the necessary arrangements. APPOINTMENT OF DISTRICT DELEGATES. The district delegates to the annnal meeting of the North Wales Union to be held at Rhyl on March 24th and 25th were then appointed. After an amount of routine business had been transacted the members and the delegates adjourned to the schoolroom to partake of an excellent TEA which had been provided for them. The tables were presided over by Mrs Paul Fowler and Miss Hackney. In the evening a PUBLIC SERVICE was held in the Westminister Road chapel, when the Rev. H. J. Haffer, secretary of the district, delivered a powerful discourse to a large audience. I

The Prince of Wales, who is honorary colonel of the 3rd Glamorgan Rifle Volunteers, has addressed to Lieutenant Colonel Dillwyn, M.P., the com- manding officer, a request that all the officers of the regiment should be presented to him at a Royal levee to be held in London ou the lith of March, where a banquet will be given.