The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

lonyr and serious illness. He resumed his official duties at Nottingham last week. The Lord Mayor of London's Indian Famine Relief Fund on Thursday night amounted te £416,000, indnding £1,000 from York sud .£508 from Staffordshire.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY COUNCIL. The annual meeting of the Montgomery County Council was helollt Newtown on Tuesday. There present Capt, D. H. Mytton (vice-chairman) Presiding, the Earl of Powis, Messrs R. E. Jones, -Richard Lloyd, W. S. Owen, Thomas Watkin, Richard Bees, Daniel Howell, O. Griffith Owen, VV. *Wies, Arthur Vaughan, David Richards, Thomas ^ryce, W. Forrester Addie, J. Marshall Dugdale, David Edwards, Richard .Jones, Edward Davies (Dolcaradog), Hugh liewis, William Ashton, George Dempster, G. W. Griffiths, John Jehu, W. Thompson Williams, David Rogers, Edward Green, Evan Chapman, David Hamer, Wm. Theodore, C. R. J°nes, John Roberts (Pennant), Edward Jones, J. Godfrey Bowen, Edward Bowen, David Jones, C. J. Newill, Wm. Jonps, J. Jones, with Mr G. D. Harrison (clerk), Mr Hutching (county surveyor), and Mr R. Hughes (chief constable).—An apology for a èsence was read from the chairman, Mr A. C. j Sumphreys-0wen,M.P.—The minutes of the meeting the Council held on 8th February were approved. ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN AND VICE-CHAIRMAN. The Yioe-Chairman proposed that Mr A. C. Sutnphreys-Owen be re-elected Chairman of the Council. Mr Humphrevs-Owen had always, he •aid, given them satisfaction in the way he had COnducted the business of the Council and he was lorry that his absence in London prevented him from. being- present to hear how unanimous they "ere in his re-election.— Mr Richard Jones said in the ordinary course of things it would ce desirable that the Chairman should be changed. It required 80tne amount of practice to discharge the duties •fficientlv. Bnt it. seemed to him that the man had !lot appeared nor the occasion arisen when the deliberations of the Council should be placed in ether hands. He seconded the motion.—Mr John •Joneg had pleasure in doins what he did last year- Proposing that Captain Mytton be elected Vice- Chairman for the ensuing year. No words of his ere needed to commend Capt Mytton to the Council. Thev all knew him and the work he had *°0e in his office He had great pleasure in pro- Posing that he take the vice-chair and that he pre- side at this ni^et.intr.—Mr T. Watkin had pleasure 1,1 seconding the motion. This County Council was fortunate in securing the services of men like Mr A. C. Humphreys-Owen and Captain Mytton, men et ability and position to help in carrying on the ~?^iness of the Council. They had known Captain Mytton M member of the Council for eight years, and as Vioe-Chairman for the last year, and the better they knew him the better they liked him. 118 did not mean that they agreed with him on all Occasions—he did not think that Capt Mytten that they should—but they were at one- in ^specfing him as a capable and useful member of Council.—The resolution was put by the Clerk rl carried unanimously. Tbe Vice-Chairman thanked the Couucil for selecting him and assured them that he would endeavour to do his dnty in the office. THE LATE CAPTAIN HAYHURST-FRANCE. The Vice-Chairman said he was sorry that his Srst duty was a very painful one—to propose the Allowing resolution :—" The Council desires to ex- Press its deep regret at the sudden aud untimely ^eatb of Councillor George H. Hay hurst Hayhur3t- "rance, and begs to tender to his widow its sym- thy in the loss she has sustained, and at the same tltne expresses the hope that she may derive some isolation from knowing that the Council highly appreciated- the services rendered by her late ^sband." He said the gentlemen who sat on the ain Roads Committee saw him sitting there in Perfect health on Saturday, and on Tuesday the countv was aroused by hearing that Captain I "ayhurst-France had been drowned. They did all of them, agree with him at all times, but ^hey could say that he was a valuable member of he Council—(hear, hear)-—ready to detect any lot in their procedure. He had always the courage his opinions and everybody would say he was a ^arless and valuable Councillor.—Mr Richard Qyd in seconding the resolution said it seemed yesterday that they saw the gentleman, who as now gone, in buoyancy and health and activity, "earning with pride and joy and pleasantness. He indorsed all that Captain Mytton had said regard- ing hitn, he was honest and straightforward. They *ld not always agree with him bijt if they were all the same way of thinking, they would fall into reat and terrible mistakes. They felt deeply for ,18 widow and family in their terrible and sudden •ereavement.—The Clerk then read the following etter from the Chairman of the Council: House ef Commons, March Hth, 1897.—My dear sir,-—My here makes it impossible for me to attend the Council meeting to-morrow. I especially regret this inasmuch as it prevents me from expressing, u l woald gladly have dons from my seat on the Council, the regret which I feel at the terribly catastrophe which has deprived us of the Presence of our colleague, Captain Hayhurst-France. desire to associate myself with whatever tribute Sympathy with his family, and regret for his loss, ay be rendered by the Council.—Yours faithfully, C. HUMPHREYS-OWEN.—The Clerk of the Peace." The resolution was unanimously passed. THE ELECTION, OF PARISH AND DISTRICT COUNCILLORS. The Clerk stated that this matter was considered JF the Local Government Committee the previous --y, Captain Mytt n in the chair. The committee mmeDded that the day recommended by the l Government Board, the 18th March, be the jy of the elections, except in the case of the 0c?ynlleth Rural District Council, which had JPplied to th3m to appoint Saturday, April 3rd, as day of the election there, the hours for the poll from 2 to 8 p.m.—Mr John Jones proposed t in the case of the Llanfihaugel Parish Councd, whom he had received an application, the fixed should be Wednesday, the 17th March. he Vice-Chairman said that the only difficulty J that the notice would be too short, and that ^6 County Council had delegated their powers to committee under the Local Government Act, 894.-1IIr John Jones pointed out that the notice 5s not on the agenda of the business of the com- mittee. If it had been he would have been present. ord Powis said it would be alright if notice of ^6 election could be given that way, although it ^uld be too late next day.—The Clerk, at the re- Jjfist of the ^ice-Chairman, read the resolutions >^the Council delegating their powers under the r^al Government Act to the committee.—After further discussion it was agreed to remit the 'l&tter to a meeting of the committee to be held J^ring tha luncheon hour.—The recommendation gating to the election at Machynlleth was ap- /PProved.—After luncheon, the committee reported r?&t they had appointed the 17th March for the option utLlanfihaneel, Llanwnog, and Llanrhaiadr. Mr Breeze was re-appointed Inspector of Weights Measures. WILD BIRDS PROTECTION. ■A- communication from the Humanitarian Leagne *8 read asking the Council to take measures to the protection of wild birds all the year *»Ond.—The Vice-Chairman thought the rules ap- P'Cible to Middlesex (referred to in the letter of League) were hardly applicable to this county. Edward Green thought that in defiance of 81)1 Humanitarian League they should pass a re- Ittl tItlon to have sparrows exterminated. — The "ter was then allowed to drop. THE VILLAGE HALL IN LLANHIIAIADR. Q application from the Llanrhaiadr Parish for the sanction of the Council to a loan of for erecting a new Village Hall in Llan- was granted. ^CULTURAL CONFERENCE AND RAILWAY RATES, w^he report of the Agricultural Conference at Q^shpool, promoted by the Cambrian Railways Q0Cipany, was read.—Mr Owen proposed that the Jr^Dcil recommend the Cambrian Railways Com- to make a further reduction in the rates as the wintering of sheep from Carnarvon tk5 Coast.—Mr Daniel Howell seconded, and motion was carried. APPOINTMENT OF COMMITTEES. jj.he members of the Executive Committee (Animals) Act were re-appointed, Mr es Davies, Montgomery, being added.—The Riding Committee on the Allotments Act was Tfo re-appointed with the substitution of Mr R. E. w^ea for the late Colonel Harrison; the same y^Qibers forming the Standing Committee under Jv^Stnall Holdings Act 1892.—The Standing Joint ^*&mittee was re-appointed.—-The Technical In- ^T^ction Committee was re-appointed with the J £ 5lti°n of Mr D. Howell, the Vice-chairman o^arking that few attended the meetings of this j^Qiittee, although it was of great importance to attention to technical education.—The Visitors • lunatic Asylum, were re-appointed.— The lading Committee under the Local Government (V 1894 and 1896 was appointed, and also the tor Qnty Rate Basis Committee.—The Conservators 'l1d the River Severn, the Rivers Dovey, Mawddach toj Glaelyn, and the River Wye were again *^0lnted.— Mr John Jones was again appointed Q^^sentative of the County on the Court of of the University of North Wales. THE SHROPSHIRE UNION CANAL COMPANY. order was given to seal the agreement with Shropshire Union Canal Company as to the 1,1 of canal bridge approaches. r»,, MAIN ROADS COMMITTEE. *Clr!?ort of the Main Roads Committee con- l'e the cost of maintaining the roads. The ^ittee recommended that it be referred to a ijjL ^ttmittee. consisting of Aldermen J. Marshall ale and Griffith W. Griffiths, and Councillors W. Forrester Ad die, David Edwards, David Hamer, R. E. Jones, Richard Lloyd, Owen Griffith Owen, W. Scott Owen, and Thomas Watkin, with the Chairman of the Main Roads Committee ex-officio, to consider what, if any, economies or reductions can be effected in the maintenance of the main roads within the county, having a due regard to their efficiency and to report to the next meeting of the Main Roads Committee.—Mr Richard Lloyd moved that the recommendation should be adopted and that the name of Captain Mytton be added to the sub-committee. The proposal was to go into the whole question of the cost of the main roads, and Captain Mytton's experience would be most useful.—Mr Marshall Dugdale seconded the motion. The sum asked for now for the maintenance of the main roads was gigantic compared with what it was when the Council took them over, and the Council must take the matter in hand. Captain Mytton's experience would be of the greatest ser- i vice.—The motion was agreed to.—The recom- mendation of the committee to sanction an expenditure not exceeding JE120 for putting Creig- nant Bridge in thorough repair was agreed to. THE NEW BRIDGE, HOVEY. The committee reported that as a difference of opinion existed between the Council and Machyn- lleth District Council with regard to the power of the County Council to contribute towards the cost of purchase of land required for the construction of the road which is to be dedicated as a highway, the Clerk was instructed to take the opinion of counsel upon the point.—The Clerk stated that he had taken Counsel's opinion as directed, and it agreed with the view that he had taken before, but his attention had been drawn to an Act of Parliament of 1891, and it was suggested that under that Act the County Council could enter into an agreement with the Rural District Council for carrying out the improvements in making the road. Mr W. Forrester Addie proposed that the matter be referred back to the committee that or-finally dealt with it, and to report to the next. ounty Council meeting.— Dr Edwards seconded the motion.—The Vice-Chairman said it was necessary to proceed cautiously in this matter, because in this matter the Standing Orders were liable to be broken unless they went step by step.—The motion was agreed to. FINANCK COMMITTEE. Communications from Anglesea and Leicester County Councils as to Local Taxation and Grants for Boards and Voluntary Schools were submitted but no action was taken in them. EXEMPTION FROM DOG LICENCES. The Llanbrynmair Parish Council called the attention of the County Council to the unfairness to small farmers of the Excise not granting exemp- tions from dog licences as in previous years.—Mr Marshall Dugdale asked what class of dogs exemp- tion was asked for. His experience was that exemption was given to all sorts of dogs from retrievers to terriers.—It was finally agreed to can the attention of the Board of Inland Revenue to the refusal of dog exemptions to farmers who had been in the habit of receiving them in previous years. SANITARY. Mr. Richard Jones moved, according to notice, that the attention of the Council be called to the communication received from the Newtown and Llanidloes Rural District Council with respect to the cesspits at Caersws. Mr. Jones said that the pits had not be cleaned since last summer. He proposed that the matter should be referred to a committee, who would be able to get legal opinion because, he believed, there was a question of law involved.—The motion was agreed to, and the following were appointed the committee — The Chairman, the Vice-Chairman, the Chairman of the Main Road Committee (Mr John Jones) and Mr David Hamer. BKTTW8 SCHOOLROOM. On the report of the Committee of Enquiry on ttfe transfer of the site of Bettws Schoolroom from Tregynon to Bettws, an order was made for the transfer. THE SUPPLY OF TROUT. On the report of the Conservators, communica- tions were ordered to be sent to all the County Councils of England and Wales. OLD AGE PENSIONS. Mr Edward Davies, Dolcaradog, had given notice of the following motion That from and after May next, the roadmen employed by the Connty Council .be allowed to leave off work oo Saturdays at twelve o'clock at noon. And, if adopted, that the men be approached with a view of formulating a scheme for old age pensions to them, founded on the whole or part of the wage value of the Saturday half day. —Mr Davies agreed to its being referred to the Main Roads Committee. THE COUNTY CHAKITIUS. A motion, given notice of by Mr Richard Lloyd: That it is expedient the Council should take steps for the holding of a pnblio inquiry into the Connty Charities, was similarly referred to the Finauce Committee, and the Council adjourned.

FORDEN RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL WEDNESDAY. The council met at the Workhouse when there were present Mr J. Davies, chairman, Mr John Edwards, vice-chairman, Messrs W. Pritchard, T. Gregory, E. R. Owen, E. Hughes, R. Jones, E. Ben- bow, Rev J. Sawer, with Mr C. S. Pryce, clerk, Mr W. P. Hole, surveyor, and Mr W. H. Pritchard, sanitary inspector. SANITATION. The Sanitary Inspector reported that since last board meeting he had visited 91 premises in the parishes of Bausley, Berriew, Castle Caereinion, Churchstoke, Llandyssil, and Middletown, and found 64 in a sanitary condition, 25 verbal notices were given to abate nuisances complained of. He had only one case to lay before the Council. As far as he knew the district was free from any infectious disease. THE SALARY OF THR SANITARY INSPECTOR. A letter from the Local Government Board was read, drawing attention to the fact that the period had expired for which the Local Government Board had sanctioned the appointment of Mr. W. P. Pritchard as Inspector of Nuisances, and inquir- ing what further arrangement had been made by the Council for the discharge of the duties. The Board at the time directed attention tx the remarks contained in their letter of 13th January, 1896, with reference to the salary assigned to the office of Inspector of Nuisances, and requested the Council to reconsider the amount with a view to increasing it. The letter referred to sanctioned the appointment of the Inspector, "although with some hesitation," on account of the smallness of the remuneration.—The Chairman said there had been no communication received from the Board since they agreed to allow £5 as travelling expenses. He thought it might b's left over for a month for the reply. DARK LANE, CHURCH8TOKE. A discussion took place regarding "encing of this road, and in the result the Surveyor was directed to carrry out a previous resolution of the Council and have the dangerous part fenced, a suggestion to build a wall being rejected. HURDLEY ROAD, CHURCHSTOKE. The Surveyor reported on behalf of the com- mittee appointed at a previous meeting that they recommended the Council not to lake over the Gant and Hurdley Road.—The recommendation was approved. ESTIMATES. The estimates for the ensuing year were as follows :—Highways £1006, salaries £250, estab- ment charges &. £50, compensation allowance £20, contingencies £100 — £1426; less credits County Council salaries grant £48, Montgomery Corporation surveyor's salary £4, grant under Agricultural Rates Act (approximately) £380- £432; leaving JE994 to be raised. THE WELSHPOOL-LLANFAIR LIGHT RAILWAY. APPROVAL OF THE SCHEME. A deputation, consisting of Messrs W. A. Rogers, Richard Jones, John Morris, and William Morris, waited on the Council on behalf of the promoters of the Welshpool-Llanfair Light Railway.—Mr W. A. Rogers said their object was to ask for ..heir assistance, and to ask them to join the Welehpool Town Council in the making of a line from Welsh- pool to Llanfair. A line from any other point to Llanfair would affect not only Welshpool but the whole of Montgomeryshire. Anything that affected the market at Welshpool would affect the farming interest in the surrounding district. Welfehpoul was a suitable centre for which to make a railway, and some day it would be cairied further up the valley. At Welsh pool they had three railway systems—the Cambrian, the North Western, and the Great Western. As far as they had gone into the scheme they were inclined to believe that the narrow-guage would be the only one that would pay. The broad-guage would be more expensive to construct and to work. They thought it would be folly to sink a lot of money without having any prospect of a return for the outlay. There was another scheme for a line by Meifod, fourteen miles long, and on the broad-guage, which would cost nearly double to open up practically the same district without starting from an important centre, such as Welshpool, with a population of about The last fact would make a material differ- ence in the returns. This District Council was interested in the scheme, because the line would pass I fortwomiles through Castle Caareinion Parish, lathe I district. The Castle Caereinion people were unani- mous in favour of the scheme. They had a meeting last week, and had passed a resolution which would be sent to the County Council in favour of it. The County Council had a special meeting on the 6th of April to consider the whole of these schemes. I If the Council came to any decision to join with the promoters of the railway it would be of great assistance to them if they sent a copy of their re- solution to the County Council.-—The Clerk said that under the Act they could only pass a resolution after a month's notice given in the usual way. Mr Ward, of Messrs Moorsom aud Ward, engineers of the line, then explained the scheme. The line started from the Cambrian Railway Station at the Smithfield market, proceeded past the Vicarage and across Church Street, through Raven Square, along the fields above the Welshpool Reservoir, passed near the village of Castle Caereinion to Llanfair. They had considered the requirements of the traffic of the district and the comparative cost of the ordinary and the narrow gauge, and they considered that the narrow gauge would be sufficient and within the means of the district. Another recommendation of the narrow gauge was that few officials would be required on the line, as the officials on the train would work it.—Mr E. R. Owen expressed the opinion that the proposed railway would be a saving to the ratepayers of the district.—Mr John Morris, another member of the deputation, concurred in the remarks made by Mr W. A. Rogers. The trade between Welshpool and the district that would be served by the railway was very large, and to divert the traffic into another county would be a serious matter. What he disliked most about the Meifod scheme was that it actually took the traffic to another county. Their proposed railway was of the ordinary broad gauge. At Welshpool they believed that the railway they were promoting would not stop at Llanfair, and it was only a narrow gauge railway that would go furoher. They could not work in the mountains with the broad gange. The coal and lime traffic j was very great, an ■ it would be a serious thing for Welshpool if it were diverted.—Mr W. A. Rogers stated, in reply to a member of the Council, that they wanted both moral support and financial help. — Mr W. Pritchard remarked that it was a Welshpool deputation, and asked if Llanfair people supported it.—Mr Richard Jones said Llanfair was divided on the question.— The Cleric said the legal difficulty would prevent the Council from passing a resolution at their next meeting as the Act provided that a month's pre- vious notice should be given. That would prevent a resolution being passed before the 6th of next month wheu the Montgomery County Council met. —The Chairman remarked that there was an opposition scheme.—Mr W. A. Rogers said they did not admit that it was an opposition scheme. They considered that Welshpool was a better outlet for the whole of the district. If the Welshpool market was weakened the first to feel it would be the far- mers and the town afterwards. In reply to a question put by the Chairman, he said the line would run through a portion of Llanfyllin and would effect Caersws.—The Clerk pointed out that the number of Councils concerned would affect the proportions this Council should advau'oe.— Mr Richard Jones supported the remarks of the other members of the deputation. The Light Railway Act had been passed for the benefit of agriculture. If the Meifod Valley route were adopted the far- mers lost the centre a Welshpool, and the conveni- ence of having three railway companies and the Canal as well. It was an important thing for the town and the district that the market should be kept up. If the traffic were diverted the market at Welshpool would suffer, and the effect of that would be felt by farmers. It was important that they should maintain their connection with the Midland counties. Since he remembered the markets for the produce of the district had been in the Shropshire coalfield and the Midlands. If the Arddleen route were adopted, a new market would have to be found in the n01 th-in the district ronnd Wrexham and in Cheshire. The principal buyers came from there, and the district would not be served by the line to Arddleen: The proposed route was for the advantage not only of Welshpool, but of the county (hear, hear).—Mr W. A. Rogers said he thought it could not be stated too strongly that if this line by Meifod were made this Council would be asked to contribute to a scheme for cutting tho ground from their own feet.—Mr Richard Jones said he believed the Corporation would assist I materially in making the line. He asked the I Council iu. the meantime to pass a resolution saying 1 that they were favourably disposed towards the application.—The deputation then retired. THE RESOLUTION. The Rev. J. Sawer thought it would be a pity if they did not give some kind of answer because it would atrenghten their hands in going to the County Council. If their resolution were delayed they would lose their moral support.—The Chair- man said they were tied by the rules, it was not their fault that they could not pass a resolution. The County Council met a day before their next meeting.—The Rev J. Sawer proposed a resolution which was thrown into the following form :—That this District Council, having received the deputation I from the promoters of the Welshpool-Blanfair Light I Railway and having heard such deputation, are of opinion that the said light railway would be of great advantage to the district and will take steps to bring the matter before the Council in the formal way required by the Act with the view of con- sidering the matter.—Mr Sawer at the same time doubted whether it gave quite enough support.— The Clerk was afraid that it was as far as they could commit themselves at this stage.Mr E. R. Owen did not think it was strong enough.—The I resolution was unanimously adopted.—Mr W. A. Rogers, representing the deputation again entered, and the Chairman read the resolution and informed him that it would be communicated to the County Council.—The Council then adjourned.

FORDEN BOARD OF GUARDIANS. WEDNESDAY. I The Forden Board of Guardians met after the PNceedings of the District Council were concluded, Colonel Twyford presiding, Mr C. S. Pryce (clerk), and Mr J. E. Tomley (deputy clerk). SUPERANNUATION OF OFFICIALS. A circular was read from the Secretary of a Conference of Poor Law Guardians held at Leeds on 18th February, which passed a resolution in favoui of the amendment of the Poor Law Officers Superannuation Act, 1896.—After some talk, in the course of which the Clerk was invited to give his opinion of the Act. He said that for a time it would be a burden on the ratepayers but that it would ultimately, be a profit to them and would act in relief of the rates.—The Chairman remarked that there were inequalities doubtless, but that must happen under any scheme.—The Board resolved to reply that they approved of the Act. STATISTICS. It was reported that in the first week the number in the House was 97 against 99 vagrants relieved, 57 against 94. In the second week the number in the House was 99 agaiust 109, and the number of vagrants relieved 76 against 102. The number relieved per Mr R. Tomley, Montgomery, was 88, the sum being £12 19s 8d; per Mr R. Fortune, Welshpool, 95-£14 19s 8d; per Mr J. Oliver, Worthen, 85--£14 4s. A WEALTHY INMATE. It was reported that on Tuesday week a man named Edward Jones applied for admission to the House, but as he had uo order he decided to go into the Tramp Ward. He was afterwards admitted to the Workhouse as the doctor reported that he was suffering from heart disease and it would not be safe to send him to Welshpool for an order. lie had JE1 4s 7d in his pocket and said ho had nearly JE500 iu Lloyd's Bank in Welshpool. He wished to remain in the House and was williug to pay for his maintenance.—The Board decided to allow him to remain on payment of 5s weekly. -+-

CHIRBURY-MINSTERLEY LIGHT RAILWAY. A spe-ial meeting of the Chirbury District Council was held on Wednesday at Forden Work- house to consider a resolution of which notice had been given in favour of promoting a Light Railway from Chirbury to Minsterley. There were present the Rev L. J. Lee (chairman), Mr E. H. Morris (vice-chairman), Messrs J. Whitaker, T. Hotchki"s, Enoch Pryce, R. Davies, W. Oldfield, R. Gwilliam, with Mi C. S. Pryce (clerk), Mr W. P. Hole (sur- veyor), and MrJ. Williams (inspector).—The Chair- man explained that the meeting was called in consequence of a requisition from Mr Whitaker who gave notice on 20th January that he would bring up the question of the promotion of a Light Railway from Chirbury to Minsterley. As they were well aware it required a two-thirds majority to carry any resolution to assist in the construction of a Light Railway.—Mr Wbitaker began iby comment- ing on the universality of agricultural depression, which had been under the consideration of the Government of this country. In order to grant some relief to agriculturists they had passed the Agricultural Rates Act for paying one-half the rates out of the Imperial fnnds. Another measure for the relief of agricultural depression was the intro- duction of the Light Railways Act, to bring out- lying parts of the country into touch with the large towns and large centres of population He believed that the country whicjji.had been most successful in contending with the general depres- sion was Holland, where the means of communica- tion were greater than perhaps in any other country in the world. They had not only very good water communication, but also an excellent system of railways to bring their products to the ports, and to put them in communication with the English market, which was the best in the world. In the Chirbury district they were about to take advantage of the offer of the Government as other distr.'c's were doing, and in furtherance of that object he proposed the resolutions standing in his name, That the Council make aoplication for an order authorising a light railway from Miusterley to Chirbury, under the Light Kailtrays Act." He also begged to propose, That if the order under the Light Railways Act were granted that the Council was prepared to make an advance of one quarter, but not exceeding one quarter of tin capi- tal." They all knew how a railway opened up a country and benefitted a district, making more work throughout the neighbourhood, creating employment and traffic, that no one dreamt of before the railway was made. The landowners were thoroughly in favour of the scheme, and a good deal of the land -vould be given.—Mr E. H. Morris, in seconding the resolutions, said it was a most important question, requiring the serious consideration of the Council. It affected the pockets of the ratepayers in whose interests tbey were there. The question for thetn was whether it was in the interests of the ratepayers that the scheme should be proceeded with. He had no doubt the ratepayers would benefit largely by it. The valley of the Rea was in every way suitable for the Light Railway,and from Minsterley to Chirbury t here was hardly a ratepayer who would not benefit by its construction. It was almost unique in respect of situation and probably there was not another rural district in ths county that could be opened up by a railway with greater advantage to the whole of the district. It would be a benefit not only to agricul- ture, but to the labouring classes who would have more employment, to the village traders, who would benefit by the impetus given to trade, and to indus- J tries languishing at present on account of the defects in means of communication. They knew that there were pits of clay along the line on which brick works might be erected. In addition there were pirites and lead oie, and although these indus- tries were not paying at the present time, no one would venture to prophesy that the day would not come when they would survive and be in as flourishing a state as ever. It was important that they should be unanimous on the subject when they approached the Railway Commissioners, who under certain conditions could recommend the Govern- ment to give financial help. in order to secure that help it was necessary that they should be unanimous. As far as he had been able to ascer- tain the landowners to a man were favourable to the scheme. He had every reason to believe that if they passed a unanimous vote they would iu all probability, to speak within bounds, have the land free of cost. He did not wish to trouble them with statistics, but be might say that the railway would cost something |ike £ 30,000. That was an approximate estimate, putting £ 2,000 for the land, that would be £32,000, of which sum the Council would be asked to fiud £8,000. They would have no difficulty in borrowing at 3 per cent., and the interest would amount to £280, which would be less than a 3d rate on the district. He asked them as men of business whether the ratepayers would not benefit to the extent of 3d in the They had 1 30,000 acres of land in the district, and he sub- mitted to their consideration whether the increased value of the land would not be from Is to 2s 6d per acre. They might make a more moderate estimate of 6d per acre, and he asked whether afarmer would take a farm rented at 08 6d an a.cre with a railway, or one rented at 20s without a railway. The rail- way would mean a direct increase in the value of the land of nearly £ 700 and they wanted only £ 280 to pay the interest. He reckoned that 3d in the pouud would not only pay the interest on the money, but also repay the principal, which he found they would have to do within 60 years. That rate would pay the iuterest and rjpay the capital. In asking them to pass a unanimous vote, he was asking them to do the best thing they could do for the ratepayers whom they represented.—In reply to the Chairman, who a°ked them if there had been a survey, Mr Morris further said that instead of hold- ing public meetings they had endeavoured to get some work done. No slight Was intended to anyone by the course the promoters had taken. The land- owners had been written to, and up to within about twof miles iof Minsterley, which was served by the existing railway, they were not only favourable, but were prepared to assist by evepy means in their power. The landowners guaranteed 50 guineas for a survey, and they had employed Mr Johnson, of Wrexham, tb make the survey,r Mr Johnson had worked on the North Western and Great Western Railways, and had constructed several lines. He had been over the ground, and was of opinion that without reckoning the cost of the land the line would be constructed at a cost of £2,8 a mile.— Mr Oldfield said Mr Johnson was a good sorveyoi4, but bad he gone below the surface and did he know how deep he had to go before he reached a sound bottom Whitaker said they had kept off the peat.—Mr Oldfield wanted to 'know whether a railway company would work the line—The reply was that that was a matter for later consideration. The Chairman spoke in favour of the scheme, and suggested that they should not make the shares too high, and that they should interest as many as possible in the line.—The resolutions were carried unanimously. A MONTGOMERY DEPUTATION. Mr E. R. James and Mr Graham a jpeared as a deputation from the Montgomery Town Council. Mr E. R. Jajnes said his Council was anxious that the proposed line be extended to Montgomery, and they wished to make a joint application with the Chirbury Council to the Light Railway Com- missioners. They would bear their share of the expenses. He need not say that it would make their case stronger; they had a lot of traffic at Mont- gomery and it would be an advantage to extend the line to that town.—The Chairman said there could be no possible objection to Montgomery Town Council beginning a railway where they stopped.—Mr Morris said he suggested that the line should be carried to Montgomery Station and then to Montgomery, but he found that, for several reasons which they could not explain, for the pre- sent they should remaiu at Chirbury. But he did not see that that was the stopping point without knowing more on the subject.—The Chairman said all they could say was that they saw no objection to the proposed Montgomery line joining theirs.— Mr Morris said all they could say was that they would not oppose the extension.-—The deputation withdrew and the business concluded.

-+-- FUNERAL OF THE DEAN OF ST. DAVID'S. The funeral of the late Dean Phillips, which took place at Aberystwyth Cemetery on Tuesday after- noon, was made the occasion of a warm outburst of sympathy on tho part of the inhabitants of the town and neighbourhood, to whom the deceased had endeared himself by a life devoted to the good and well-beiug of the people. For 25 years Dean Phillips worked amongst his people at Aboryst- w) tho During that time he bad to meet the oppo- sition of those against him, but he fought uprightly and scrupulously he defended the Church from attacks with an unswerving fidelity, and by his earnestness of purpose and devotion to his work won the hearts of the populace. When he left the town after his long service amongst them, he was made to feel iu various ways the kindly feeling xthat existed for himself and his family. The reception given to 'his sorrowing relatives was sadly impressive of the intensity of tba.t feeling, and all creeds and sects vie with each other in doing honour to the dead. The station and the line of route was crowded with spectators. A de- tachment of the Royal Cardiganshire Artillery lined up on the platform, under the command of Major Tauuton. The band of the regiment was also present, and played the Dead March as the coffin was borne from the railway carriage to the bearse. The clergy were there in large numbers, amongst them being the Lord Bishop designate and the Ven. Archdeacons Pryce and Protheroe. The Mayor and Corporation attended officially. There was also a large attendance of Justices of the Peace, and Mr C. M. Williams attended as chairman of the County Couucil. The procession was led off by the children of the National Sohool, under the care of Mr Jones and Miss Knight. Then followed in order:—The police, under Supt. Phillips, the detachment of soldiers, the massed choirs of St. Michael's, St. Mary's, Holy Trinity, and Llan. badarn Fawr, the Mayor and Corporation, Magistrates, the general ublic, unrobed clergy, surpliced clergy, the hearse, the mourn- ing coaches containing Mrs Phillips, the Rev. Charles and Mr T. O. Phillips, Miss Phillips, the Misses Amy and Alice Phillips, Canon Lewis, Dr Williams, and Rev J. Phillips (minor canon.) Favourite old Welsh hymns were sung on the way and the band played the Dead March." The funeral rites were performed by the Lord Bishop and the two Archdeacons. The wreaths on the coffin were very numerous and beautifully ar. ranged, the sentiment contained on many of the cards pointing to a close union between the Dean and those who were immediately associated with him in his work.

WELSHPOOL AND THE WELSH LANGUAGE. A. meeting of the Church Literary Union was held on Monday last, the Rev Grimaldi Davis pre- siding, when Mr S. J. Evans read an excellent paper in support of the resolution That the study of Welsh is incumbent upon the inhabitants of Welshpool.The lecturer said :—Last year I read a paper on Monasticism and for the sake of debate took up the side' in which I did not believe. As this is ouly my second paper before this society it is necessary that I should state at the outset that these are not my tactics to-night. On this occasion I take up the side in which I thoroughly believe, and in support of my contention I shail use only those arguments which to my mind are perfectly vali i and therefore must help to deter- mine the case. Now to clearly realise where we stand and to cleii- the issue is much as possible I must in a preliminary way classify the inhabitants of Welshpool according to their attitude towards this question. I take it then that they fall into these divisions :-(I) Welshmen wno have retained a knowledge and the use of Welsh (2) Welshmen who have not retained either the knowledge or the use of the language but who still claim to be Welsh- men; (3) Welshmen who have not retained either the knowledge or the use of the language and who are anxious to be taken for English; (4) English- men who have no knowledge of Welsh perhaps but who still know how to respect Welshmen f5) Englishmen, if there be any, who hate Welshmen and everything Welsh and who think no good can come from Nazareth. This table, I think, fairly covers the ground, and other classes that may suggest themselves to the mind will fall into one or other of the above divisions. Now I must warn you that I do not intend my contention to apply to all of the above classes. Hence I must again revise this list and put out of court any sections to which I do not wish to appeal. The first class men- tioned, i.e., the Welsh-speaking Welshmen, is with me and requires no arguments to convince it of the truth of my assertion. The second class, i.e., the English-speaking Welshmen who are nevertheless proud of their Welsh name, comes within the scope of my appeal, as likewise does the fourth class mentioned, i.e., the Welsh-respecting Englishmen of our town and district. The third and the fifth ciasses, i.e,, our Dic-Shon-Dafyddion and the Welsh-hating Englishmen of our neighbourhood, if there be any, I cannot hope to conviuce, nor do I honestly believe them worthy of attention in our attempt at a solution of this question, for they must be steeped in prejudices which render argu- ment impotent. As I have pointed out then my paper is written for (1) those English-speaking Welshmen who aie not ashamed of the name, and (2) Englishmen who have no anti-Welsh prejudice. Some of my arguments will be applicable more particularly to the first of these two sections, some to both sections, and I shall make one appeal at any rate to the purely English alone. Niv first contention then is this—that the loss of the Welsh language is the loss not merely of a collection of words, of what is contained in a Welsh-English dictionary. It is the loss of a, fund of ideas, and traditions, and associations the accumulated experience of centuries of national and individual life. It is impossible, I think, to make too much of this fact. To those who have not had the time or inclination to work this out and study it for them- selves the death of a. language involves no such loss, and a Welshman who has learnt English can with- out disadvantage, perhaps with profit, let his first language fall into desuetnde and decay. All students of psychology—of the doings and states of the mind—know that this is not so. Let me develope one point by way of proof. We often speak of a man thinking in (say) English or Welsh. This implies that connected thought is impossible without words. Words are not merely the outward garb of ideas; they are rather the embodiment of them; their very incarnation. Destroy this "corpus," this "body" of thought, and our ideas become chaotic and formless. At every fresh advance in thought then either a new word mnst be immediately coined to bring it into definite form and to retain it, or an old word if used for that purpose acquires au once a new colouring. In this way the experience of a nation gets accumulated, and this rich inheritance is handed ou in the nation's language to its sons and daughters. They in turn enrich it with their thoughts, feelings, and experience, and hand on the increased product to those that come after them. This was the case with Welsh until all of a sudden—or gradually if you like--tutiiy of the Welshmen of our town and neighbourhood lost their language. t, ti(i were deprived of this rich inheritance of tbOUIht and feeling and experience. It is as though a rich harvest—the result of hard toil and patient Id be swept away by autumnal floods and there be no fodder left but the tardy produce of winter and a cold soil. Nor is this fond of -this accumu- lated experience—without its p-aliar value to the man who speaks the language in which it is embodied. It has that peculiar form and colour and character which exactly suit his special way of feeling, of thinking, and of acting. Every nation feels and thinks and acts in a way peculiar to itself, and its language faithfully shows the impress of this individuality of the nation and here naturally arises my second argument, viz., the loss of a language is the loss of the most important factor in the making of a nation as such. It would take us too long to inquire to-night into what constitutes a nation. It will answer onr purpose just as well t) confine our attention to the concrete instance before us. The Welsh area nation, and one of the leading characteristics of the Welsh nation is its langnage. I do not know if anyone here doubte the aocuracy of the last assertion. I know a late eminent divine- fine scholar as he was—allowed himself one day to be led away by a strange infatuation and declared that because the EO-called Welsh nation had no definite geographical limits towards England, I say, he declared that the Welsh were no nation at all. I say such an assertion was due to infatuation, for had he carried his point to a logical issue, and no man could better do so, he would have seen that neither are the English a nation for they have no definite delimitation of border towards Wales. If tnen the loss of the Welsh language means the loss not only of our chief national characteristic, but also of the inheritance of that accumulated experience which is the proud possession of every genuine Welshman. I say that Welshmen who find them- selves in that predicament are isolated, have no national life. Our great national movements touch them nOli; they are conscious of no great past they look forward to no mighty future. We know that a national life is a great organic life and that its future grows out of its presect and its past. You ask me what greatness has characterised Wales in the past? I answer a nation may be great in other things besides war and commerce and the power of colonial expansion. It may glory in a past of religion, and poetry, and song. Who among us can dispense with any or all of these great attributes ? These then are the great qualities of my nation's past. From these every true Welsh- man derives a consciousness of strength, and out of this consciousness of strength arises a firm resolu- tion in the heart to go ahead and attain to still higher eminence.. Without this feeling there can be no ambition, or rather ambition is a very rare quality of mind where there is no consciousness of strength. I appeal then to those Welshmen who have lost their language to pick it up again, and thus connect themselves with their nation's past and their nation's present, and thus to draw anew from the great store of ideas, and sentiment, and feeling to which I have referred already. Then they will feel the life not only of themselves but also of their nation palpitating in their veins, and their sympathies will be enlarged and their interests widened. Now I come to my third reason :—The possession of both langnages- English and Welsh-by people living in the border counties is (a) a commercial and (b) a social advan- tage. («) A commercial advantage Though we do not hear a great deal of Welsh spoken in the town of Wolshpool itself we have most of us to deal frequently with Welsh-speaking Welshmen. Landlords have Welsh tenants, farmers have Welsh neighbours, tradesmen have Welsh patrons, and professional men have Welsh clients, patients, &e. Though these may make themselves understood in English, there is no doubt but that they oould be much better understood if they could at times express themselves in their own language. We expect the tenant, the farmer, the client, the patient to learn English. Would it not be a great advantage if their English landlords, and advisers, &c., on their part did likewise and tried to learn the Welsh language ? I venture to maintain that it would not be a misdirected effort. (b) A social advantage: It must be a very uncomfortable feel- ing for a Welsh farmer who has hardly any know- ledge of English to have English-speaking neigh- bours. Instead of rapidly making his home, he is ever conscious that he is, so to speak, an exile in a strange land. Such must be the feeling, only to a less degree, if an Englishman happens to have a Welsh neighbour; and if this be the case with neighbours so must it be with advocate and client, doctor and patient, master and pupil, and so on. It adds then to the sum of happiness in a district if its inhabitants by a study of each other's language seek to understand each other better and to make communication easier. My fourth point is this:— The acquirements of proficiency in two languages is a great educative power, especially if those two languages be very dissimilar in their general structure. That is why our humanists continue to I assert the great superiority of Latin over French as a study for the development of the intellect. An English boy who has acquired proficiency in French is well ahead df his monoglot fellow-pupil. Ahead, I say, not merely because he knows French, but because the study of it has whetted his intellect and has given him a readier mind for the solution of the endless new problems which life presents to us. If this be the case after a study of French, much more so is it after a study of Greek, or Latin, or Welsh for here the effort, is greater as is the con- I trast between the two languages. The faculties are brought more iuto play and the result is natur- ally more yalua.1J13. Here let me refer to an antagonistic argument, much petted and fondled and presented on State occasions by its supporters, and that is that the retention of Welsh is an impedi- ment to progress and is altogether a great draw- back to those who have had to learn it. Never could there be a greater mistake. I should like to fully traverse it but the time I had at my disposal for the composition of this paper was too limited to allow of it. Let me, therefore, briefly answer it once for all by a reference to my own experience. I had to learn Welsh and also English. So far has it been from a detriment and a misfortune to me that I firmly believe that I have understood the English language much better than I could have done had 1 never learnt my Welsh. A knowledge of English and Welsh then is a great intellectual advantage. My last argument is meant more particularly for my English friends. Out of respect to the people among whom you have come to live you should. I respectfully protest, learn the language of the country. If you lived in France you wonld, I am sure, learn the French language though you might live on your means and the people around you might be willing to try and make themselves under- stood by you in English. I only claim the same respect for a language which would so well repay study and for a nation famous for its religion, and poetry, and song.—The paper was received with much applause, and a spirited debate followed in which the following took partDi Beddow, Mr M. Powell, Mr D. Rowlands, Mr R. Owen, Mr W. Dick, Mr C. Pryce Yearsley, the Rev D. Stephens, Mr J. Langdon, and Mr James.—The Chairman summed np the arguments aud indicated various historical reasons for the existence of the strong national feeling that exists in Wales.—The motion was carried by a large majority. ♦ ——

THE LATE CAPTAIN HAYHURST- FRANCE. On Saturday the funeral of the late Captain G. H. Hayhurst-France took place from his residence at Ystym Colwyn to the Churchyard at Meifod. At the gate of the churchyard a very large gather- ing of friends and tenants of the deceasod awaited the arrival of the cortege at noon. The mourners were Miss Hayhurst, Miss M HayLurst, Miss A M Hayhurst (sisters), Miss Hawks (üigterin-Iaw), Mr R M Hawks (father-in-law), Miss Violet Sharp, Rear Admiral A L Douglas, the Rev T W Hay- hurst France-Hayhurst (cousin), Colonel France- Hayhurst (cousin), and the Rev Charles Swainson (cousin). Amongst those who sent carriages were the Earl of Powis, Mr Bonnor Maurice, Miss Gill, and Mr Beck, Trelydan. The bearers were the workmen, gardeners, and gamekeepers on the estate, and were:—Messrs T. Rogers, E. Ellis, R. Williams, H. Beech, M. Jones, H. Evans, D. Williams, D. Hughes, D. Jones, and W. Evans. In the church the service was conducted by the Rev. J W Jones (Vicar), Rov J W Thomas, Bwlchycibau, Rev C Swainson, and Rev D Jones, Llanfechain. The hymn, "Days and moments quickly flying," was snng and tho Dead March in Saul" was played by Mr Evan Davies, Organist. Amongst those present wers MrJ Marshall Dugdale Captain Mytton Mr G J Dumville Lees, Woodhill; Mr H, J Edmunds, Edderton Hall; Captain Westby Captain Luxmore; Mr W E Pryce-Jones; Mr J Lomax; Captain E S St Barbe Sladen Mr T Simpson Jones, Gungrog; Mr R 0 Perrott; Mr T K Perrott; Mr R W Hughes, Chief Constable; Mr G D Harrison, Welshpool; Mr C R Jones, Llanfyllin; Dr Felix Jones, Llanfyllin 5 Mr M Powell, Welshpool; Mr Buckley; Mr C. Hickman, Welshpool; Mr Robert Richards, Greenhall; Mr D Richard, Welshpool; Dr Gill, Welshpool; Mr 00 Openshaw, Llaufeehain; Mr Evan Watkins, Llanfyllin Mr Aubrey Jones, Llan- fyllin; Mr George Kempster Mr Jones, Caebardd Mr Gandy, Wolverhampton; and Mr Evan Thomas, Tanyfron, agents; Dr Humphreys, Llanfair; the Rev E. Griffiths, Meifod Mr E Jones, secretary of the Llanfyllin Conservative Club; Messrs F Campbell, D. Jones, Walter Gough, and F A W How, representii;;r the Oswestry Cricket Clnb; Dr Roger Edwards, Llanfyllin; Messrs J M Jones, Mathyrafal; E Lewis, Dvffryn R Hughes, V.S., Oswestry D Davies, Edmunds, W L Uailey, W Rees, and J Roberts, Llanfyllin. Amongst the tenants present were Messrs W Roberts, Ystym- colwvn; Maurice Bebb, sen and jun, Keel T Morris, Lower Maen; J Pryce, Upper Maen Ben. bow, Wernykeel; D Benbow, The Cwm D Jones, Middle Maen John, Thomas, and James Pierce, Tynewydd; Evan Evans, Tyddyn-y-Saes R Humphreys, Farm Issa E Lewis, Penygodor; and J Evans, Bryncynfelin. At the grave the Rev Charles Swainson, of Old Charlton, officiated, and the hymn, Thou art gone to the grave, but we will not deplore thee, though sorrows and darkness encompasr. the tomb," was impressively sang by the choir. The coffin, which was of polished oak, with massive brass fittings, bore the inscription :— George Henry Hay hurst Hayhurst-France, Died March 2nd, 1897, Aged 41 years." The entrance to the vault was beautifully deco- rated with moss, ferns, and flowers, and the sur- roundings were laid out with evergreens, &c., under the superintendence of Mr Beech, head gardener. Beautiful wreaths were sent by "His two loving little sons," Miss Hayburst, Miss Mary Hayhurat, Miss Alice Hayhurst, Miss Helen Hayhurst, Mr and Mrs H H France-Hay burs: Rev Charles and Mrs Swainson, Old Charltou; Mr and Mrs Hawks, Mr and Mrs Shafto Hawks, Miss Hawks, From Bod- I facli," Miss Williams, Gwyndy; Major and Mrs Story, Rev J W and Mrs Thomas, Bwlchycibau Bwlchycibau Church Choir, Mr and Mrs Pryce- Jones, Mr Soley Evans, Oswestry Captain and Mrs Mytton, Garth Captain and Mrs Luxmore, Whitehouse, Meifod the servants of Ystymcolwyn, Miss Gill, Dr and Mrs 1"e1; Jones, R Bird, Rev W and Mrs Richards, Cemines Mr and Mrs Evans, Llanymynech; Mr F S Bamfylde, Captain and Mrs Gaisford, Mr and Mrs L Hughes, Mr J Openshaw, Mr and Mrs Bonnor Maurice, Miss Dorothy Mytton, Mr R Hughes, V. S., Oswestry Dr Peploe Cartwright, Oswestry; the Oswestry Cricket Club, Colonel Hey ward, the Rarl and Countess of Powis, Dr Alfred Davies, Mn and the Misses Sharpe, the Ysi vmcolwyn tenants, MrC E Howell, Mr and the Misses Lovell, Sir Pryce and Lady Pryce-Jones. Mr A W Pryoe-Jones, Mr and Mrs Pryce Davies, 1h Walter C Pryce, Mr W E Pryce-Jones, Mr N E Tidy, Mr and Miss Buckley, Mr and Mrs G D liarrisin, Mrs Curling, Rear Admiral and M rs A L Douglas, Mr and Mrs Forrester Addie, the Rev J Williams, Llanwddyn Miss Davies, the Vyrnwy Hotel; Mr and Mrs Richards, Royal Oak, Welshpool; Mr and Mrs Marshall Dngdale, Llwyn; Mr and Mrs Humphreys, Garthmyl Hall, Mr Lovell, Mr T. K. Perrott, Mr Arthur Williams-Wynn and many others.—Mr Henry France-Hayhurst of Wellington, who was at Ystymcolwyn, was unable to attend the funeral through illness.—Messrs R. and R. Hughes and Co*. Oswestry, made the arrangements for the funeral. The coffin was made by Mr C. F. TaHis, Welshpool, and the Police were in charge of P.S. Meredith. -+.

PARLIAMENTARY. THS USE OF THE CLOSURE. After a number of questions on the situation in Crete had been answerer in the House on Monday, the Voluntary Schools Bill was resumed in Committee. Mr Lloyd-George moved an amend- ment to clause 1, the effect of which was to stipulate that the aid grant should be distributed not as the Education Department think best," but in accordance with a scheme to be formulated by the Department and laid before Parliament." After some debate Mr Balfour moved the closure, which was carried by 212 votes to 79. The amendment was then rejected by 221 votes to 73. Before the sitting was over the closure had to be twice imposed, being carried by large majorities, the amendments being thereafter rejected. UNNECESSARY AMENDMENTS. The House again went into Committee on the Voluntary Schools Bill en Tuesday, and the discussion was renewed of the amendment moYetf by the Mr Lambert, to leave out of clause 1, which deals with the distribution of the aid grant, the words due regard being had to the maintenance of voluntary subscriptions in order to insert the words provided that no school shall "be so helped the .volun- tary subscriptions in support of which fall short of the average of the past three yeara." After some discussion Mr .Balfour moved tihe closure. The motion was carried by 283 votes to 131, and the amendment was then rejected by 285 votes to 130. Sir C. Dilke moved aa as amendment that after the words" voluntary sub- scriptions there should be the following words paid bona fide by private individuals." The amendment was withdrawn. Sir A. Rollit moved to add the words as a reason for granting Buch aid." Afterwards he wished to withdraw the amendment, but leave being refused it was re- jected by 205 votes to 84. The Chairman then ruled a number of amendments eut of order. Mr Lloyd-George subsequently moved the omission of sub-sections 3, 4, and 5, which relate to the con- stitution of associations and the distribution of the grants to schools through their medium. The amendment was rejected by 279 votes to 116. ASSOCIATIONS OF VOLUNTARY SCHOOLS. On Wednesday the question before the House of Commons in Committee on the Voluntary Schools Bill was the assoeiations of Schools on an amendment by Mr E. J. Griffiths (Anglesey). Sir W. Harcourt asked for a definition of the area and constitution of the associations. Mr Balfour, in reply, said lie did not remember any case in his Parliamentary experience in which so much time had been taken over discussion as on the discussion—in his opinion very often frivolous and unnecessary—on the first few lines of the bill. After a lengthy discussion Mr Balfour moved the closure, and the amendment was rejected. On a motion by Mr Channing to limit the area associations to urban and rural sanitary districts Mr Balfour said it had been decided that the Education Department was to be assisted in its work by associations voluntarily formed, and the only question they had now to determine was whether they would lay down an elaborate statutory obligation dealing with the constitution and the area of these associations, or leave them to davelop iOMch, district according to the needs of the district or the clas&of Voluntaiy schools within it. The Government bad unhesita- tingly decided that the fluid method was better than the rigid method; that it was best to leave discretion to the Department, and that the House wonld be ill-advised IT it attempted to tie down in rigid fetters the new bodies which, it was hoped, might be called into existence by the biU. The associations would be voluntary in the fullest sense of the word. There was wo power to compel an unwilling school to join. That showed the entrmoua difference between the associations and the local authorities with whom they had been compared. The amendment was rejected by 9 majority of 199. CRETE. Mr Curzon stated that there had been no Supplementary Note from Greece in reply to the Powers. Candanos had been successfully relieved. THE WATER SUPPEY OF LONDON. On Thursday the vexed question of the London water supply came before the Honse of Commons on the motion for the second reading of the Chelsea Water Purchase Bill, one of a group of measures by which the London County Council are seeking to obtain control of the water supply of the Metropolis.—Mr Chaplin said the Government intended to oppose the second reading and if it were defeated would appoint a Royal Commission to inquire iuto the whole matter.—The second read- ing was rejected and the other Bills on tue subject were withdrawn. GREECE AND THE POWERS. Sir William Haroonrt and other members pressed the Government for information on this subject, but Mr Curzou declined to be drawn on matters that were best not made public. MORE WASTE OF TIMK. On the House going into committee on the Voluntary Schools Bill, Sir WilHam Haroonrt had a passage of arms with the Chairman, who declined to allow half an hour's adjournment, and after some time had been wasted, the committeo got to busi- ness and still discussed the question of the Associa- tions of Schools, pnd several amendments were rejected by substantial majorities. Mr Morgan Owen, A.M.I., has recovered from his