The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

NEVEK was there a political party so curiously liable to break up as that which sits on the Opposition Benches of Parlia- ment. It broke up in 1886, and remained out of office for six long years. By heroic work Mr. GLADSTONE contrived, in 1892, to' shelter all the shattered and antagonistic remnants of his followers under his umbrella (to quote Lord ROSEEERY'S own phrase), and managed to remain in power for three years, mainly leaning upon the Irish vote for his support. But those three years disclosed many rifts within the lute, and discord was the rule rather than harmony. The jarring atoms were once again dissolved at the general election last year, and the marvellous Unionist majority of one hundred and fifty came into existence, H in fair and forecast order." There was naturally a period of gloom and depression for the Liberal party for some time after that thundering decision of the country. Various admissions and explanations were made Liberal writers and spp;1 V V -s » # I (luring tile autumn-, "but gveii til U^jiOsition the divisions and aiiimosities and jealousies of Lord ROSEI;ERY'S followers stood out con- spicuously. Then there came a lull, and when it was announced, at the end of last year, that the Government bad decided to introduce an educitional measure,. sounds of extreme jubilation arose in the ranks of the divided Liberal hosts. Sir WILLIAM HARCOUBT and Mr. ASQUITH mounted the platform and declared the time would soon arrive when they had one subject at least upon which the party could be rallied, and that was upon the question of education. Here at least the Government majority could be shaken, and the traditions and policy of Nonconformists could and would be maintained. There was no hint then of any defection within the ranks of the Opposition, and for some time 'Liberals! were buoyed up with the expectation of a good party attack upon a simple measure of assistance to Voluntary Schools. But they had reckoned without their host. Sir JOHN G<"»EST, so useful to the Radical Press sometimes as a supposed discontented Minister," suddenly became the best abused membei of the Conservative party. His Education Bill first surprised and then completely staggered the Opposition. They found themselves face to face with a large and comprehensive measure of educational reform, full of statesmanlike foresight and wise provisions, and calculated to attract and unite the largest party in its favour ever known in any Parliament. When the day arrived for the second reading and the Irish members voted for the Bill, the climax had been reached, and a fresh crisis in the fortunes of the Liberal party suddenly presented itself. Their Irish allies had deserted them in the field of battle, that was the plain and obvious spectacle which stared them in the face, and the question arose as to the future relations of the two sections of the Opposition, and the policy which had originally brought them together. As it was the Nonconformist Home Rulers who had driven Mr. PARNELI, out of the leadership of the Home Rule movement, so it now appears that it is the fixed intention ot the same section of the Liberal party to drive Home Rule itself out of the Liberal pro- gramme. The Nonconformist leaders seem to vie with one another in the severity of their comments upon the conduct of the Irish partv in voting tor the Government upon the Education question. One thing is in- dubitable—the Dissenters are extremely angrv, and they seem inclined to repudiate Home Rule as suddenly and emphatically as just ten years ago they embraced it. But angry men are seldom logical, and the ebullitions of Nonconformity just at present seem to indicate that the politics of Dissent, like its religion, are more a matter of the heart than of the head. For instance, the Rev HUCH PRICE HUGHES, who for years has been very confidently assuring the world that Christianity favoured Home Rule, now declares that the Irish have them- selves violated the principle of Home Rule in voting npon an Education Bill affecting Great Britain only. Yet, Mr HUGHES and his friends were not in the least shocked by a similar violation of the principle in question when the Irish party voted for the Disestablishment of the Welsh Church, and, in fact, carried that measure by their votes in the House of Commons. So far from condemning this interference of Irish men with British affairs, the Noncon- formists assented without a syllable of dis- satisfaction to the second Home Rule Bill, which left the Irish party permanently at Westminster for the express purpose of interfei ing in British legislation. In his letter to the press, Mr. HUGHES recanted all his former views. It is now demon- strated." he said, that our religious kins- men in Ireland were right when they asserted that the so-called Home Rule party in Ire- land was not primarily a Home Rule party but a Rome Rule party, and that when it came to the point they would sacrifice Home Rule, political gratitute, and every other consideration, to the wishes of their priests." He concluded by declaring that Home Rule was as dead as Queen Anne. Dr.- GUINNESS ROGERS, another great cham- pion of Nonconformist opinion, declared that Home Rule had been postponed sins die, and that he" was not prepared hence- forth to sacrifice or imperil the interests of Lib'Tali r.i ii; thi« r-n.-nt;* for the sr-Ae of a cau.' i.i vim* if* own Kitpporlrv0 .si:;nv -.0 ]ittl laii'i." iiut the smartest slap in the face from Dr. PARKRK. There is no getting away from the i-ei! iu his letter lo 1 he Times of Moiriav In asse;)iing to the undenominational religions teaching of the Nonconformists have been setting np a state religion of their own. Their quarrel, the?'efore, is not against the establishment and endowment of religion, but only against the establishment and endowment of the Church of England. There is no rational standpoint between absolutely secular religious teaching on the one hand and denominational teaching on the other. In accepting the compromise" Nonconformity simply gave its principles away. All this is true enough, but it is cruel of the Pastor of the City Temple to show up his friends and colleagues at the moment when they are smarting under the success of re-action and the defection of their Home Rule allies. Such then is the end of the" Union of Hearts." The men who cherish the memory of CROMWELL have, at last, been compelled to part with allies who would not vote for a statue to the Protector under the late Government, and who persisted in voting for the Education Bill of the present Adminis- tration. It was, as we have pointed out any time these last ten years, merely a question of votes. As long as the Irish members voted for the Liberal party, Home Rule principles were right, and true, and patriotic. But directly Irish members did what Unionists always predicted they would do, viz., postpone all other interests to thrir relirrious opinions, then they are denounced by their old allies. This is, indeed, a case where Nemesis has over- taken the Nonconformist Liberals. They left their Irish brethren in Mr GLADSTONE'S bills utterly to the mercy of the Irish Roman Catholic hierarchy. In neither of the two Home Rule Bills was there the slightest attempt to safeguard the rights of the minority in the matter of education. Now, when the Irish members ignore the views of their logical conclusion, we hear lamentations and recriminations without end. Unionists are not likely to take heed to any death-bed repentances on the part of the Nonconformist Radicals in this matter. Already overtures are being made to the Liberal Unionist followers 01 Mr. CHAMBERLAIN to let byegones be byegones, and to go back to the ranks of Liberalism. I But it is now too late. Home Rule may be dead as Queen Anne," but the old divison of parties can never now be restored, — *• of parties can never now be restored, — *•

NOTES BY THE WAY. Oil Wednesday, the village of Caerhowel, near Montgomery, was en fete on the occasion of the coming-of-age of Mr Hugh Harrison, son of the popular commandant of the 4th Batt South Wales Borderers, Colonel R. J. Harrison. At noon nearly seven hundred tenants and friends assembled on the lawn and Mr Harrison was presented with an illuminated address and three hundred ounces of silver plate in the form of a massive silver bowl and tray, all of the value of one hundred guineas from the tenants of the Caerhowel estates, and also of a handsone pair of silver candlesticks and a couple of silver-mounted walking sticks, silver handles, from the tenants of the Glyn estate. Mr Harrison suitably responded and referred to the goodwill which existed between the family and the tenants. An invitation luncheon followed, at which Colonel Harrison presided. The remainder of the day was spent in sports, and tea was given to the children of the neighbourhood and the old people. A full report of the proceedings will be found on Page 3. On Thursday, Colonel Harrison, assisted by his agent and the Mayor of Montgomery (Mr E. R. James) distributed over half a ton of beef to house. holders in the district. The ox was specially fed for the auspicious event, and when alive stood over 15 hands high, its dead weight being 1,271 lbs. The rejoicings were continued last evening, when Col. and Mrs Harrison gave an At Home in the Town Hall, Montgomery, a report of which will be found in another column. His Worship the Mayor of Welshpool is deter- mined to mark the occasion of the forthcoming; visit of His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales's visit to Welshpool when on his way to AberystwyLh on the 25th prox., and with this end in view he has convened a public meeting for this evening, which will take place at the Town Hall, to consider the advisability of forming a choir to sing at the railway station during the change of engines. If the idea is carried into effect, we would suggest that the choir sing at least one of the compositions of our talented musician, Mr T. Maldwyn Price, R.A.M. Although the occasion may not be a very suitable one, we see no great objection to the choir rendering that magnificent piece of composition, Abide with me." In the House of Commons on Wednesday, Major E. Pryce-Hones presented a petition from Mnnt. gomery and Merionethshire in favour of bringing tithe rent charge within the scope of the Agricul- tural Rating Bill. The parish meeting was held at Llangadfan on Friday week, by order of the Committee of the County Council, for the purpose of electing the members of the Parish Council in place of the nine Liberal members returned on 9th March, through certain irregularities on the part of the chairman, Rev. Henry Jones. Mr T. Jones was elected to the chair. Eighteen nominations were handed in, and a poll was demanded, which will take place on June 6th. We hope the electors will take into consideration the arrogance of the late chairman, and mark their sense of disapproval of such conduct by returning to the Council the gentlemen who have been so unfairly treated by him. V* On Wednesday afternoon the annual meeting in connection with the Machynlleth Agricultural Show took place in the Vane Hall, Machynlleth. Mr G. W. Griffiths presided, and there was a good attendance of the farmers of the district, the tradesmen of the town however not putting in an appearance. It was decided to hold a show this year, and the hon treasurer (Mr John Rowlands), announced that there was in hand with the savings of former years a sum amounting to L82, although on last year's working there was a deficit of £5 odd, this being accounted for by a decrease to a like amount in the gate money. The meeting adjourned after re-electing the officers, and at the next meeting the question of introducing sheep dog trials will be discussed. # Mr S. Smith, in the House of Commons on Tues- day, called the attention of the Minister of Agricul- ture to the large number of cases in Wales in which sheep had been worried and killed by dogs, and received an assurance from Mr Long that every- thing possible would be done to remedy the evil. The London and North-Western Railway Bill and the Cambrian Railways Bill were also mentioned in Parliament the same day. Mr Lloyd George inquired whether he could not move that the clauses of the former Bill which relate to the Chester and Holyhead section and which had been abandoned be retained, but the Speaker informed him that he could not do so. The Cambrian Bill, which had passed the House of Lords, was read the second time. Warned bv the shocking accident uhich in; r>s>eiM-o in • lie town last Auuu.st, the Abfary&: wvth Town Couucil have Laken erly precautions to have an tho boats plying tor hire .horoii'lily examined by a practical shipbuilder, and for this purpose the Couucil appointed Mr Hugh Jones of Port ma doc to mulce the inspection. The inspection will be repeated in the spring of each year, and no J'censes will be issued to the owners of boa-s until their craft has been certified to be sound. On Tuesday at the Aberystwyth Town Council a deputation appointed by Aberystwyth Steamship Company waited upon the Council with a view to obtaining an alteration in the present method of collecting the harbour dues, which, under the exist- ing arrangements was done by the company's ser- vant, the company being held responsible for bad debts. The Town Clerk informed the deputation that unless a new Act of Parliament was obtained this could rot be done, as the course pursued wa3 one laid down by law. The second application was to ask for a reduction in the rent of the warehouse, which the company consiuered too high. It was suggested that the matter should be referred to the Harbour Committee, but to this course Captain Doughton objected, as all the Members of the com- mittee, with the exception of one, were interested in the company. He was supported in this view by Councillor Hopkins and Councillor R. J. Jones, who maintained that it would be the fairer course to refer the question to an impartial body for con- sideration. The conduct of the rest of the Coun- cil on this occasion was rather inconsistent. They forced upon the hands of a committee—three of whom spoke against the proposal—work which they were unwilling to undertake, and upon which one at any rate declared he would not sit. How- ever impartial the aCLion of the committee may be, they are placed in an awkward and unfair position. The committee are asked to report to the Council upon the application made by the company; and they, at any rate the majority of them, will it in judgment upoti their own applica- tion. Is it to be expected that the men who were wishful of seeing the interests of the company maintained, will now turn their backs upon them- selves and support the interest of their landlords ? The whole thing is grotesque atid absurd. The Reception Committee atAberystwyth makes an appeal for funds towards defraying the expenses of the royal visit. We feel that upon such an occa- sion there will be every desire upon the part of Welshmen of all sections to take their share in bearing a portion of the expense. That the visit is a national one is generally recognised and appreci- ated, and therefore the committee have every right to look to Welshmen in all parts of the Principality for the pecuniary assistance of vyhich they stand in need. i i.i The insanitary condition of our country tillages is ät all times a matter of the keenest anxiety to the local authorities, and as the years pass by we see fresh proof of their activity in their efforts to im. prove the condition of the villagers. At the Rural Council of the Aberystwyth Union held on Monday, reference was made m the severs that existed in parishes around and Mr Miller laid strong emphasis upon the existence of an open drain in the village of Llanbadarn. This drain runs through the village, and during dry weather generally contains pools of stagnant water and rooten vegetation. It is the duty of the Council to See that the work is properly attended to, and unless this can' be done with the present staff other means should be found for carrying out the necessary improvements. English sentiment would have been better satis- fied if an Englishman had been given the post of Her Majesty's agent in Pretoria, in succession to Sir Jacobus De Wet. However, Advocate Clocte s understood to be a persona grata in the Rand, and if those whose interests are primarily concerned are satisfied, it may be assumed that the right man has been chosen. Mr Kruger has made the remark, it seems, that the fact of Mr Clocte being a Burgher, is no more an objection to his being the British agent at Pretoria than the fact that Mr Montague White is an Englishman isaa objection to his being Consul-General for the Transvaal in England. Mr Montague White is not, however, 8o ve^.y English as his name implies. He is partly Boer in IIblood and wholly Boer in sympathy. T m 1 1 .Li onnrenmen were simple-minded enough to place any faith in the apparently earnest solicitude for the welfare of the Church exhibited by Non- conformists they would be frequently overwhelmed by the overtures made to them.. It is a remarkable feature of Nonconformist activity that they invariably become most anxious as to the work in connection with the Church when they foresee a rupture-or what to their mind might lead to one —between the clergy and laity. Their expression of sympathy and good-will are overwhelming. They are quite wilFng to take off the hands of the Churchpeople the embarrasmeavs that might arise, and when thus far they have gained their ends they are equally energetic in turning matters to their own advantage. An incident occurred at a vestry meeting held at Machynlleth on Thursday, which to a great extent illustrates our meaning. The first vestry meeting was held some two or three weeks ago, but was adjourned to await the attendance of the Rector of the Parish (the Rev Canon Trevor), who it was expected would be pre- sent. Some of the Nonconformists of Machynlleth attended the second meeting stating that they were under the impression that it was called to deal with matters directly relating to the addi- tional powers for which the Uiban Council have applied, but the Churchmen scouted the idea of their having any right to interfere with the election of Churchwardens. The excuse for the presence of Nonconformists is a frail one; and probably we should bave been persuaded that there was a cer- tain amount of truth in the statement if some of the leading ratepayers of the town and members of the Council had been present. But the absence of those gentlemen, whose names are more often associated with the business of the town than are those of the Nonconformist gentlemen present that day, confirms us in the opinion We have expressed, that they were there solely for the purpose of adding fuel to the flame of discontent. We do not say that those interested in the welfare of the Church are not correct in the stand they have taken, because the interest they laow take in the affairs of their parish is exactly what the majority of leading dignitaries of the Church of England have long asked for, as it indicates a healthy tone amongst the laymen. It is desirable, and it would be more seemly, if the little differences that appear to exist between Canon Trevor and the laity were brought to an end, as their continuance simply serves to leave gaps for the interference of their opponents. Three Welsh members, Mr Herbert Lewis, Mr Lloyd George, and Mr Jones-Griffith, have given notice of about 150 amendments to the Education Bill. Evidence of more flagrant obstruction on the part of the Welsh members it would be difficult to find. The fact that the Bill has passed the second reading by an unprecedented majority, is sufficient proof of its value. The programme for the Shrewsbury Church Congress is fast.nearing completion. It promises to be-alike in regard to subjects and speakers-of rather more than ordinary interest. The entries for Mr Frank Lloyd's great quarterly June Prize Horse Sales at Wrexham close on Wednesday next, the sale being held the week previous to Ascot races. A good trade is expected. The sale is limited to 1,000 horses. For particulars see our advertising columns. A'lhon^b, from previous experJen e of the .,no- jec", it v.ould be pl'emc,tu"e L() ,y ':¡-" L,.] Îjr;t railway irom O'wosiry .0 Llangynog is a for- gone conclusion, still .ve think the project is now within measurable distance of bei.ig carried into etic-ce. The public meeting held at the invitation of the Mayor of Oswesi ry on Monday was well attended, and a motion in favour of the construction of a railway between the two places was unanimously passed. An influential committee have been appointed to look in> o the merits of the routes suggested, and after thi" question has bc^n decided practical steps for carrying the motion into effect will be taken. The question is exciting considerable interest in the district. -+-

WELSHPOOL. (Continned from page o.) D. JONES < Sox's Indian and Ceylon Yea, ai 2s. per Ih. is absolutely pure, theieTo-e best.— Noted Home Cured Han and Bacon ulores, High street. [Advt.] THE FAIR.—The supply of stock in the Smith- field on Monday was rattier limited, and trade was quiet. Beef realised 5d to 61 per lb; mutton, 7d to 8d per lb Calves and small pigs sold very well. Very little demand for stores owing no doubt, to the continued dry weather. TEMPERANCE.—A meeting was held in the Templar Hall on Sunday evening, when Mr Robert Owen presided. Rev Jonathan Evans delivered an address, and Miss Lizzie Lewis rendered a solo. Mr Alfred Jones was the accompanist, and there was a large attendance. FIRE AT TRI^HECIG.—On Tuesday afternoon two stacks of oat and wheat straw belonging to Mi- Richards, Trehelig, were discovered to be 011 fire. PrompL assistance was rendered by Mr Jones, of Trehelig, and but for this the flames would most probably have spread to the house and outbuildings. The stacks were totally destroyed, but fortunately no further damage was done, The property was insured". From inquiries made by the police it is believed the fire was caused by some children, who were seen playing with matches in the yard previous to the discovery of the outbreak. CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH.—Special services were held in the above place of worship on Sunday, when Rev. Jonathan Evans, Buckley, (a former pastor) preached two able seimons to large couge- gations. On Wednesday evening a tea was held in the School-room, New-Street, when there was a numerous attendance of members and friends. Afterwards a public meeting was held in the chapel under the presidency of Rev. Jonathan Evans, of Buckley, and there was again a large attendance. THr. BOWLING GREEN.—A match for a pair of bowls will commence on June 2nd, terminating on August 30th. Twenty-eight entries have already been made, the list of which closes on May 30th. BURGLARY.—At the County Police Court yester- day, before Mr. S. Powell, Owen Jones, Lower Park, Berriew, was charged with breaking into the house of Mr. Edwards, farmer. Cefndreboeth. Berriew, on Wednesday morning, and stealing therefrom the sum of 14s., the property of one of Mr. Edwards' workmen.—Committed for trial at the Assizes. COUNTY COURT, Wednesday.—Before His Honour Judge D. Lewis.-Attbe openingof the Court, Mr M. Woosnam, addressing His Honour, said:—We are pleased to welcome your Honour back again, and trust that your health has been thoroughly re-established.—The Registrar (Mr. Harrison) con- curred in the sentiments expressed by Mr. Woos- nam.—His Honour thanked Mr. Woosnam and Mr. Harrison for their kind expressions.—There were 52 new plaints and 10 judgment summonses set down for hearing, but only one ordinary case and three judgment summonses came on. MONTGOMERYSHIRE YEOMANRY CAVALRY.—On Thursday afteinoon the Cavalry, to the number of 250, assembled at Welshpool for their annual ten days' training, under the command of the following officers :-Lieut.Col. Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, Captains R. W. H. W. Williams Wynn, C. T. Dug- dale, F. R. Williams Wynn, J. C. Munro, and G. L. Holdsworth; Lieutenants J. A. N. Booker, E. M. Lucas, A. P. Lane, H. E. E. Peel, E. J. Williams- Vaughan, G. Fitz-Hugh, and G. Pritchard Rayner, and Surgeon Captain John Gill. Yesterday morn- ing the men paraded in Broad Street at 9 o'clock, after which they proceeded to the field where they went through the Squadron drills. On Thursday evening and also last evening, the band played excellent selections of music under the conductor- ship of Mr J. Whittingham, outside the Royal Oak Hotel. PRESENTATION.—?Last evening a presentation was made to Miss S. A. Morgan, Mouat street, on the eccasion of her approaching marriage and departure from Welshpool. The presentation took the form of two volumes bound in morocco, Keble's Christian Year and Hymns with tunes, A.M." containing the inscription Presented to Miss S. A. Morgan on the occasion of her marriage by the teachers of Christ Church Sunday School as a token of sincere regard and with their sincere wishes for her future happiness." Mrs Shuker, superintendent of Christ Church Sunday School, had invited the teachers to Clive Place, and after tea had been partaken of on the lawn the presenta- tion was made in felicitous terms by Rev. Grimaldi Davis (vicar), and his Worship the Mayor (as the superintendent of the Welshpool Sunday Schools), added his testimony to the good work Miss Morgan had done. GIRLS' FRIENDLY SOCIETY. POOL RURAL DEANERY BRANCH. The annual festival of this Branch was held on Thursday, when most of the associates and mem- bers met at Welshpool, and went in a barge on the Canal to Berriew, where a special service was held at St Beuno's, a sermon being preached by Rev P. A. Emson, Vicar of All Saint's, Shrewsbury. By the kind permission of Major Corbett-Winder, tea was partaken of on the lovely terrace at Vaynor Park, which was much enjoyed. After tea the following branch report was read, and Mrs Lorbett- Winder presented the prizes. The number of mem- bers in England and Wales in 1895 was 147,770. In this branch the numbers wereBerriew, 10 members, 11 candidates; Castle Caereinion, 13 members, 14 candidates; Guilsfield, 10 members; Llandysilio, 12 members, 5 candidates; Llandyssil, 11 members, 10 candidates; tool Quay, 3 mem- bers Penrhos, 4; Welahpool, 40 members, 27 can. didates. Twenty-four new members, and 25 can- didates were admitted in the branch; five mem- bers were commended from other branches; 19 were commended away, four had married, three withdrew from the society, and two had died, the total number in the branch last year being 115 members an7 candidates. The offertory that day was for the Sick Fund of the Society, and amounted to £3 4s. During the year four members received help in sickness, one was sent to the Home of Rest at Criccieth, and one to the Alexan- dra at Rhyl. A considerable number in the branch joined the Reading Union last autumn, and, at least, 12 wrote papers either on Scripture, Church His- tory or General Literature. The list of marks will be published in a special leaflet next month. There is great improvement in the number of bonus that are asked for, there being 12 this year, and only one last year. We would again remind the mem- bers that a bonus of 6d is given on every 10s saved up to 910 the time to apply is before the festi- val. Cards of merit signed by the Bishop for seven years' good membership have been sent to four Welshpool members who are away :-Nellie Paddock, Mary Jane Rogers, Catherine Edwards, and Nellie Proece. Twelve members have sent in aprons to compete for the sewing prize, but only five darned stockings have been received. It is honed that many more will send m work next year. Of'course all cannot win prizes, but all will find their work improve if they make an effort and practise doing their best. First prize for apron (2s 6d) Martha Lloyd, Llandyssil; second (2s 6d), Lena Jones, Guilsfield; third (given by Mrs Roper), Eva Jones, Guilsfield. Prize for stocking darning, Mary G. Gwynne, Welshpool. Bonus on savings Joyce Owen, Lizzie Edwards, and Ethel Evans, Berriew Annie Jones and Agnes Jones, Castle Caereinion Edith Jones and Fanny Breeze, Guilsfield Catherine Davies, Lizzie Evans, and Annie Blockley, and Mary Jane Jones, Welshpool. About 130 were present including 96 members, among others being Mrs and Miss Corbett-Winder, Mrs R. E. Jones, Rev W. L. and Mrs Martin, Rev R. J. and Mrs Robinson (Penrhos), Mrs Parry Morgan, Revs J. T. Lewis, A. Lewis, J. Roberts, Mrs Grimaldi Davb, Mrs Roper, Mrs Shuker, Miss Carrie, Miss Oakley, Miss Amy Jones (Branch secretary). ANNUAL DINNER OF THE WELSHPOOL FOOTBALL CLUB. The termination of the football season was mark- ed by the members of the Welshpool Football Club on Tuesday evening, when they sat down to dinner at the Eagles. There was a goodly company present and a pleasant time was spent by one and all.- The chair was occupied by the esteemed and popu- lar chairman of the club, Mr. T. F. Hiles, and he was supported by Messrs. f1*#' Dan Jones, S. Quilliam, Hugh Blackith, H. Smith, W. B. Fairgreaveti, R. Payne, A. E. Bond, A. Turner, T. J. Bratton, E. Evans, W. Davies, T. Thomas, T. Austin, E. Parry, Benbow, T. Jones, R. Heath, K. Ev;>»j«, T. Fiirr, C. Jf;rman, J. Jones, A. Gn'ce, VY Evans, and 11. Price.—Mr. E. Evans (the captain of the first eleven) filled the vice-chair. After par- taking of an excellent spread, provided by Host and Hostess Biattcn in their usual good style, the Chairman submitted the loyal and patriotic toasts, which were received with enthusiasm.—In propos- ing the health of the" First eleven, the Chair- man observed that their play during the past season had pleased the committee of the club very much in fact there had been no better play wit- nessed on the part of the club in former years (applause). They hoped thnt next season the team would continue to play in this manner, and that the position of the Welshpool Football Club would reach a higher level in future years than that of the past (hear, hear). The chief object cf that evening's convivial gathering was to mark the com- mittee's appreciation of the players' efforts they had all through played a gentlemanly yet vigorous game (applause). There had been no wrangling and they had always accepted the referee's decisions, and their play compared most favourably in every respect with other clubs in the district, and the committee desired him to convey to them their thanks and satisfaction with this fact (hear, hear). It was Loped that this would be conspicu- ous in the future and that the club would receive better support from the town and neighbourhood, together with some practical interest. During the past year they experienced better gates than in previous years, nevertheless, they thought the club was deserving of better support (hear, hear). No club could exist without the help of the outside public, and the committee considered that no club deserved that support more than their own (hear, hear, and applause). As to the players the committee never had any trouble with them they always came up to scratch, and in this matter they desired to thank the employers of labour, including their friend on his right—Mr Fair- greaves—(applause)—for permitting the men to get away to attend the matches (hear, hear.) With the toast he had great pleasure in coupling the name of the captain, Mr R. Evans—(cheers)—who, in response, remarked that he was sorry the club did not win the Junior League Cup, which was due more to bad luck than anything else. He hoped that next season they would be a more superior team, with the brothers Mytton and others (hear, hear.) The club would then be good enough to compete in the cup matches. There was now a probability of their getting into the Shropshire League next year, and if that should be correct he believed the public of Welshpool would go to wit- ness good* games (hear, hear.) He again thanked them.—Mr Blackith submitted the health of the subscribers, and said he did not consider the sub- scription to the club from non-paying members was sufficient It would not pay for the number of footballs broken last season. If this was not done they would have to pass a rule to the effect that no player be allowed to have nails in his boots (laughter.) They ought to have three times the number of subscribers they bad at present. He considered that every tradesman in the town should subscribe—(hear, hear)—for they could not deny that each and all of them benefitted by the final and semi-final matches byir'.g pmjsd here, and for that reason he was of opinion that each tradesman should subscribe his 5s, 10s, or sovereign, as the case may be (hear, hear).—Mr Payne, in respond- ing, said that there would be no difficulty in getting increased subscriptions next year (applause).—The Chairman rose and said he had a most pleasing duty to perform, and that was to present Mr Smith' with a gold medal as a mark of their appreciation of his efforts during the past five or six years (cheers). Mr Smith had all along been a most steady and loyal supporter of the club, and there was no knowing what would have become of the club had it not been for his support, he having worked hard and done his best in everyway (hear, hear and applause). He stuck to the club in its dark days, and remained by it after it had turned the corner, and for its successful turning they must attribute the credit to Mr Smith (hear, hear). He therefore had great pleasure in pres- enting the medal to Mr Smith, not because of its intrinsic value, but because it marked their deep sense of gratitude for his generous and enthusiastic support in the past (applause). They only hoped to always have the benefit of his sympathy and support, while he had the power (hear, hear).—The health of the recipient having been drunk with musical honours, Mr Smith, in reply, incidentally mentioned that before he took up the treasurership, four years ago, the club always seemed to get into debt, but during his first year in office they had a balance of JM odd, the next year 7d, after that Is 9Jd, and his last year 19s. And he thought that if he could manage to carry on the dutiea of the office for four years without running into debt, he could not. see why they could not do the same in the future (hear, hear). He might remark that if he had not been so fond of the game he would not have worked as he had. He again thanked them for their hand- some present (applause).—A letter having been read from Mr Heathcote regretting his absence through serious business," Mr Pugh gave The Welshpool Football Club," and in the course of an excellent speech, remarked that he had been very pleased with the nice and gentlemanly play of the Welshpool team during the past season, and he fully endorsed all that bad fallen from the lips of the Chairman respecting the first eleven (hear, hear) So long as a team carried out the instructions of its captain and obeyed the ruling of the referee so long would that team succeed (hear, hear). He did not follow the team last season so much as he had wished, more important engagements calling him elsewhere, but he could assure them that next year he would follow them with the greatest interes' and if they could only succeed in getting into the Welsh or Shropshire Leagues he would often take the opportunity of witnessing their play (hear, hear). The success of a club, as he before mentioned, depended in a great measure upon the ability of the captain, and the fulfilment of his orders by the team. They should be implicitly obeyed and should never be questioned (hear, hear). He was glad to observe one or two alterations made in the team last year. He should also point out that a team's success depended very much upon the conduct of its members during the interval that elapsed between the matches. It was no use a man trying to last for an hour and a half at hard football playing unless he was a steady man, and his advice to the team next year was to keep as temporately as they could and in good training; an hour and a half at football then would not hurt any man (applause). The club bad been lucky in having such good officers, and with their assistance next year the club would surely prosper, and he only hoped that at the close of the next season there would be some sort of a cup or some medals for them to gaze upon while indulging in the feast of reason and flow of soul (hear, hear, and applause). The success of local football was, in a great pleasure, due to an old and well known enthusiast in the person of Mr T. J. Bratton- (cheers)—who had been the means of introducing high-class football into the town, and also a great many golden sovereigns (loud applause). He agreed with some of the previous speakers that it was the duty of every tradesman in the town to subscribe liberally to the club. In conclusion he might say that he would be very pleased to become a member of the club (applause). With the toast he coupled the names of the chairman and vice-chairman.— The Chairman suitably replied.—The toast of the ladies," proposed by Mr Pugh came as a great surprise to Messrs Blackith and Quilliam, whose names were coupled with the toast. Both these gentlemen, to the amusement of those present, ably acknowledged the compliment, the first-named in a masterly speech, whilst this being Mr Quilliam's maiden effort, his attempt was a good one.—Other toasts followed, including the Chairman," pro- posed by Mr Bond; the Press," given by the Chairman and "the Host and Hostess," submitted by Mr Blackith, all of which were duly acknow- ledged. A most enjoyable evening was spent by all. The toast list was interspersed by an interest- ing musical programme, songs being contributed by the following:—Messrs. Farr (2), Jarman, Heath, Blackith (2), T. Thomas, D. Jones, W. Davies, Price, Payne, J. Jones, J. Pugh, and Grice.—Mr Bratton and Mr Quilliam kindly shared the accompaniments.

TREFEGLWYS. I ODDFELLOWS' ANNIVERSARY.—In our report of I this event in our last issue, the name of Mr N. Bennett, Glanyrafon, was inadvertently omitted from the list of subscribers, that gentleman giving a donation of Xl. Mr A. C. Humphreys.Owen, M.P. also subscribed 10s 6d. TREGYNON. THE ANNUAL ROOK SHOOTING at Gregynog Hall took place on .Friday, the 15th inst., under very pleasant circumstances, the weather being lovely. Birds were plentiful, and a jolly company of sports- men present. Bwlchyffridd wood was shot first, after this luncheon was partaken of on the Greens- ward and a move was made for Gregynon Hall, where a hearty vote of thanks was passed to Mr Scott Owen tor his kind invitation. The keepers did all in their power to make things pleasant for all present and a substantial whip was readily sub- scribed for them. The party broke up about six o'clock everyone being satisfied with the days' sport.

ELLESMERE. MK.MORIAL TO TIIK LATE VICAR A .i meet- ing of sulxwibei's i<> this ni'-mm-ini t<> ;h" iat«- Vicar was heiii in i.e 1\t\I lluii (;:1 TïJu!:j;y. K< r V. l E. l{\-flnr\I:1 iq I he chair. A rnoi hose L'1'p:-t}nt C. Tower, iir Harold Peake, MrJ. Ilivnl, MissT^bor, Missos Vv'ymjs, Jebbs, Mrs M(-Cutc-he.wi:h Mr F. Buckley treasurer, and Rev W. C. Tabor secretary. Rev H. M. Cl:.fToj-(I, &-c. The Chairman stated that the object of the meeting was to receive the com- mittee's report and to hear from them as to what they proposed to do with the balance of the funds after erecting the tombstone to the late Vicar. He called upon Rev W. C. Tabor to read the report, which was as f,)Ilows Your Committee have much pleasure in reporting that in accordance with a resolution pass-id at: a meeting f sympathisers of the late Vicar, to erect a memorial to him, beg to- state that a sum of upwards of £124 has been sub- scribed and collected towards one so hitrnly re- spected and lamented. At the same meetincr it was resolved that the subscriptions should be devoted in the first place to the erection of a cross over the grave, and that the surplus should be spent on a brass tablet in the church, or if suffi- cient aioney was subscribed a Reredos or a stained glass window spoken of as desirable. Tenders have been invited for the erection of the cross, and, in accordance with the wishes of Mr Peake's family, it is to be in the form of an ancient c oss, probably 1,000 years old, a fragment of which was discovered when the church was restored. It is to be carved from Enderby granite to commemorate Mr Peake's birth-place. Your Committee had tenders from a large number of firms for the erection of the cross or tombstone over the late vicar's grave, and after careful enquiry recom- mend the tender of Mr. Basker, of Wrexham, for B. R. C. Tower proposed that the tender be accepted.—Mr F. Bickley seconded and it wa.c carried unanimously—The Chairman then said it was for the meeting to decide what they should do with the balance, which would be about £ 80.—Mr Tower said that he was anxious that a memorial should be put up in the church to the memory of the late vicar. Personally he was in favour of a reredos at the east end of the church, but before making a proposal to that effect he thought it would be best to consult some experienced gentle- man on the matter, and as Mr Hodson Fowler was going to pay him a visit he thought it would be a favourable opportunity to consult him on the matter.—Mr Mylius proposed the following resolu- tion That Mr Hodson Fowler be instructed bv the committee, on behalf of the subscribers, to inspect Ellesmere Church, and report as to a reredos.Mr John Hood, who seconded, said he was in favour of a reredos, because it was what was wanting in the church. Many people wanted a stained glass window, but he could remind them that a reredos was far more interesting. A stained glass window darkened the church, but a reredos would be both useful and ornamental, and would last as long as their dear old church. He thought it was wise to have the advice of such an ex- perienced man as Mr Hodson Fowler, and therefore seconded he proposition.—This was put to the meeting and carried unanimously, aid the meeting closed. THE NEW VICAR.-The new Vicar (Rev Ernest Atherton Wanton) preached his first sermon in St. Mary's Church on Sunday morning last, taking for his texi, the 58th verse of the xv. chapter 1 Cor- inthians Therefore my beloved brethren be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abouuding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." There was a very large attendance and the Vicar preached extempore, and was listened to with marked atten- tion. He said he came to them unasked, he had been called to the charge of their parish and he felt how unworthy he was to take upon himself such a responsible work and he asked for their help and co-operation. He spoke in feeling terms of their old Vicar, and asked them to remember the words he preached from that pulpit. For his part he would do all he could for the cause of Christ and would try to lead them in the right way. The sermon lasted for upwards of thirty minutes, and it was generally admitted afterwards that Lord Brownlow had made a wise choice in selecting the rev. gentleman to this living, as the Vicar has al- ready made a favourable impression. BOARD OF GUARDIANS, Tuesday.—Present Mr Brownlow R. C. Tower (chairman), Rev T. J. Rider (vice-chairman), Rev W. C. E. Kynaston, S. T. W. Barker, Hon G. T. Kenyon, Messrs J. Woodville, T. Jones, C. Cooke, J. Jeffreys, W. E. T. Ward, C. Emberton, S. J. Lewis, J. Darlington, G. Griffithg. —The Master reported the number of inmates relieved during the first week to be 55 against 59 last year second week 55 against 58 tramps relieved 159 against 216.—The Local Government Board inspector reported that he visited the work- house on May 14 and found it in a cleanly condi- tion. He heard no report from any of the inmates. The Visiting Committee reported visiting the house and having found everything satisfactory. They recommended several worn out slabs over drains to be re-placed. A small committee was appointed to consider and report on the several recommendations.—It was agreed to accept the tender of Mr Frank Cartwright for 213 for white- washing. The out-relief expenses in the Ellesmere district during the fortnight were S14 17s Hanmer district £10 9s 7d. RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL. T V It S D A Y. Present: Messrs J. D. Owen (chairman), W. T. Jones (vice-chairman), Rev T. J. Rider, Rev W. C. E. Kynaston, Messrs Brownlow R. C. Tower, W. E. T. Ward, C. Emberton, J. Darlington, J. Woodville, T. Emberton, G. Griffiths, and S. J. Lewis. The Sanitary Inspector (Mr Green), reported that scarlatina had entirelj disappeared from the district. There had been an out-break of measles in Hadnal, and the school had been closed for three weeks. The report was adopted.—The Surveyor reported that he had been carting stones on the roads for the last month. He had still 20 men employed in stone breaking. The clerk had dis- charged 13 men and kept 13 on. One man had charged the Council for half-a-day's work when he was not on the roads, and consequently he had dis- charged him. The amount of wages due was X40 5s. The culvert at Criftens school had been inspected, and it could be put right at a cost of zEl 15s. The culvert at Dudlestun Hall was in a good state of repair. He reported that a wire fence had been erected on broadside in the Baschurch township. The report was adopted, and a committee appointed to see the wire fence complained of. The treasurer reported a balance in hand of z6498 17s 5d. The question of the closing of the road through Petton farm, and the making of a new one, given by Mrs Cunliffe in lien thereof, was next considered, and letters read. The Clerk stated he had gone through the whole history of the closing of the old road. The Pimhill Highway Board had refused to take over the new road, and it was decided to ask the two justices who reported thread was a good one, for their certificate.—Mr Faulkner, Baschurch, wrote re- specting the alleged encroachment he had made on the roadside, stating that the fence he had put up was in the same place as Lne 010 one. A com- mittee was appointed to see the place and report on the encroachment.—Lord Newport, writing about the water supply at Higher Hopton, stated that the owners of the property in the district should be approached, and they do the work jointly with the help of the parish. It was decided to fall in with the suggestion of Lord Newport. and Mr. S. J. Lewis was appointed the represen- tative of the District Council on the committee which was appointed.—A letter from the Baschurch Parish Council respecting the footpath from the Post Office to the school, which was in a bad state, was read, but it was decided not to repair the road. A letter from the Local Government Board was read asking the Council to adopt the infectious Diseases (Notification) Act, 1889.-Mr E. W. T.Ward moved that the Act be adopted.—The motion was, however, lost on the casting vote of the Chairman. —Mr. Griffiths asked that Mr. Martin, Pentrecoed, be allowed to fill up the old pit at the side of the road, which was tenanted from Mr. G. H. Hassfall, Liverpool.- It was decided to allow Mr. Martin to make an application himself. The fate of jewels is just as dependent upon Dame Fashion's fickle fancy as the size and shape of sleeves and skirts, and the form and fashion of one and all of the garments destined for feminine adornment, and just at present her favour has set the emerald on the pinnacle of fame and popularity in place of the ruby which, last season, reached such fabulous prices through her stringent orders for its wearing. It was left for Mr. J. W. Benson to revive the taste for these emeralds, the E porium for these gems being 25, Old Bond Street, London. The result of this latest piece of favourit- ism is an enormous demand for the chosen stone a demand which is already bringing an increase'of value and price-in its train. Moreover the^e lSGyStoa regain'^ « as lotelv baVe adKti0nal ad^ntageaofOIiooking y mg.htlaS by day< differing in this from da l ht 18 °nly 86en ati'8 best in the