The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

ABERYSTWYTH. HARBOUR COMMITTEE.— Councillor C M Williams (mayor) presided over the ordinary meeting of the Harbour Committee on Monday evening. There were also present Alderman T Doughton, Conn- cillors R Doughton and E H James, with Dr Thomas (medical officer of health), Mr Rees Jones (surveyor), and Mr H L Evans (borough account- ant).—There was no business beyond the passing of a few bills.—Alderman Doughton said it would be a great advantage if two more lamps were placed on the Rofawr, one at each end of the ware- house.—The Committee agreed to recommend this to the Public Lights Committee.—The Surveyor reported that the road from the stores to the boat- house had been completed and the other was pro- ceeding. PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEES.— Tho Mayor also prûiûed onr this meeting when the same members were present, together with Councillor Hopkins.—The labour sbe-ets for the past two weeks were passed as were several quarterly bills. — Dr Thomas presented his report for the quarter ending December. There had been 37 births registered—23 males and 14 females, giving an annual birth rate of 18'7 upon a popula- tion of 7,971. There had been 40 deaths, one of which was a visitor, this left 59 for the towns- people and on a population of 7,971 gave a death rate of 19 6. There had been only one case of infectious disease, viz.: a case of scarlet fever. The patient made a good recovery and the disease was prevented from spreading. The town had not been so free from infectious diseases since the autumn of 1898. Influenza in an epidemic form had broken out and two deaths occurred.—Tho layor Then on the whole you consider the report satisfac- tory.—Dr Thomas Yes.—The Mayor In referring to his question tte Corporacion will have to s8riou"lf comâder tlw provision of an isolation hospit.>tl. Two or three months ago the matter came before the Public Works Committee, and I understood then that it was the intention of the committee to visit various sites with a view of being in a position to consider the erection of a hospital.—- Alderman Doughton Yes, it was decided.—The Mayor: This question has been discussed off and on since 1893. j I believe the necessity of it-especially haying regard to the importance of the town as a watering place-is w the minds of a large number bevoming very urgent. I think we must be ail convinced that if in any summer season p. large number of in- feccious diseases were to break out in the absence of an isolation hospital it would be a serious matter fur the town. He had no doubt that when such a place was crected it would raise the town very much in the estimation of the visitors. The Coun- cil would have to consider the matter, and he hoped that when the medical officer pre- sents his nest annual report it would contain a statement to the effect that th8 h08pital was being proceeded with.—The Medical Officer said there were two or three cases in the town last season. In largo centres tho people went as a matter of course to isolation hospitals, and in fact they preferred doin so.—The Mayor sageRted that, they should include in their report a recom- mendation to the Council to proceed with the work, aml then the Public Works Committee cou1d be requested to select a site.—Councillor Hopkins | leclared that the committee had met and visited certain places more than once.—The Mayor No report has been presented.—Councillor Hopkins: It is not our fault. We visited the sites, and a report ahoakl Love been presented.—The Medical Officer said that it was decided to call a. meeting of ( the whole Council to visit the sites. This had not i been done.—The Committee agreed to recommend t the Council to adopt the principle and request the I Public Works Committee to report upon a site at once.—Mr James Evans, inspector of nuisances, reported that a large number of iiersons had failed to comply with notieefJ served upon them in respect to defective water fittings, troughs, etc., and the Inspector was directed to take proceedings without further delay. SCHOOL BOARD. — On Tuesday evening the 1J1()!¡; hly meeting oÏ the members of this Board was held itl t he Schoolroom. There were present Mr Peter Jones (chairman), Rev Prebendary Williams, Rev T Levi, Mr v'v'm Thomas, Mr T B Hall, Mrs Griffiths, and the Yen Archdeacon Protheroe, with Mr R J Roberts, clerk.— Upon the consideration of bills, etc., the Chairman drew attention to the gas bill, dated from April 1st to Oct 1st, daring which period the Board was charged for the consumption of 35,000 feet of gas.— Mr Wm Themas said that if the meter was correcr. there must have been an escape of gas.—The Chair- man Well, we had better get the bill for the cor- responding quarter of last ycar.-This was agreed to.—The Attendance Officer (Mr Voyd) presented his rcport of percentage or attendance for the three weeks ending De" 31st: Board Schools—Boys, 88'3 percent; infants, 70 per cent; girls, 86 per cent. National School: Boys 77, infants 71, girls 75.— The Chairman said that there had been consider- able illness during the past month.—Tho Rev Prebendary Williams asked that the Attendance Officer should in future bring in at the end of each month the actual number of scholars on the books in each department.—The Chairman then pro- ceeded to deal with the annual financial statement. The auunal grant from the Education Department was £604 17s, as compared with £S59 17s for last year; but included in this was the annual grant from the Science and Art Department, which brought the difference down to £34. Fee grant was £279 2s 6d, last year it was £262 2s 6d; receipts from rating authorities £725, last year £800; Agricultural Rating Act, Jb8 12s total recepts £1,617 15s lid, as compared with £1,646 last year. Expenditure was-Officers of the Board £86, last year £106; stationery £102 6s 8d, last year £128 17s 3d; maintenance and salaries £8ó5 5s, last year £834 18s lOd; books, etc., £88 12s 9d (included in this item are two years' accounts), last year £9 13s 7d; light and fuel, etc., £67 4s, last year £124 7s 9d. Repayment of loans and interest was a little over £346, and the total expenditure was placed at £1,501 18s lOd, compared with £1,479 last year. They started with an adverse balance of JE11 4s 9d, and at the end of the year they had £104 12s 4d in hand. The total increase in the grant was over £50. PETTY SESSIONS.—WEDNESDAY. Before Messrs C M Williams (ex-mayor), T Griffiths, E P Wynne, and R J Jones. CHIMNEY ABLAZE.—George Wilkinson, North parade, chapel trustee, was charged by Rees Jones, borough surveyor, with allowing the chimney of the V.'eslevan Ch&pel to go on fire on oanuary 7th. —Mr Wilkinson said that the chimney was swept on Jan 6th.—The trustees were fined is 6d. DRUNK AND DISORDERLY.—Evan Daniel, boat- man, Plascurig, was charged with having been drunk and disorderly on Jan 6th.-P.C. John Jeukin3 said that about 11 p.m. on Saturday even- ing he was on duty by the town clock. The defendant was there drunk and vory disorderly, causing a large crowd of people to assemble. His conduct was disorderly and he acted like a madman. He hit three young men and was anxious to fiyht anybody. When witness threatened 1,0 lock him up the defendant was taken home by his brother.— Defendant said that he was not drunk but he had no witnesses to call and finished by pleading guilty.—The Bench decided to take the following charge of assault before deciding the ca3e.-John Edward Murphy, Custom House street, boots, charged van Daniel, IJ0a,tman, with having R8-1 saulted hIm at Aberystwyth on Jan 6th.—Murphy said that he was standing by the town clock 011 the Saturday evening when Daniel struck him twice. Defendant's brother came forward to take him away ano whilst doing so defendant threatened to take his b life.—Defendant said that he did not strike complainant.—Harry Bluck, office boy, said that he saw the defendant striking him on the back of the ear.—The Mayor (to defendant): Have you anything you wish to say ?-—Defendant: No, sir.— Fined £1 and costs for having been drunk and disorderly or one month's imprisonment, and for the assault 10s and coats, in default 14 days' hard labour. AFFILIATION ORDER. — Mr T J Samuel op- peared and informed the Bench that W Jones, Union street, who promised to pay the monny due on an affiliation order, and entered into recogni- sances to appear at the Police Court following the meeting of the sessions had not done so and was not present that day. The warrant was allowed to remain in force and the case was further ad- journed 10 Saturday at noon. PRIVATE STREETS ACT. — There was a further adjournment of the hearing of objections to the Private Streets Act being put into operation in Trevor road. Mr W P Owen who appeared for Mr W J Watkin, Captain Jenkins, and Mr Night- ingale asked the Bench to grant a further ad- journment owing [,0 tho bct rh:1t Mr Bassett, liis only witness, was down with influenza. Mr Hughes had said that he would leave the matter in the hands of the Bench and he therefore asked for an adjournment for a week. There were too other circumstances which he thought made it right that he should apply. Yesterday for the first time he came across two deeds which put a different complexion on the matter. There were covenants in both deeds between the buyers of the property on Trevor road to make, lay out and form the present roads. The person mentioned in the deed had received notice to be present, but he was not there; and having legard to this he was about to take action as to his clients' 1 position in the matter.—Mr A J Hughes said that he had come down at great inconvenience to attend that meeting, and he left the matter in the hands of the Bench. He hoped that the matter would be preceeded with as there was a lot of work to be done and no delay could be admitted so far as he was concerned. With reference to proceedings outside the question they had only to treat with the ownfr, and whatever remedy the ownsr may I have with another person must be taken to another Court. — Mr Owen I saw your clerk last night and told him and he could have wired you. Un- fortunately 1 have nothing to do with influenza and this letter from Mr Bassett was only received last night, when I was prepared to go on with tho case.—Mr Hughes I am quite prepared with the prosecution and leave the matter in your hands.— The Mayor said the Bench had decided to adjourn the case for a week,' but it should be understood that the must be decided then.—Mr Owen: Unless Mr Hughes and myself have influenza (laughter).—Mr Hughes: Influenza has been an old friend of society for a long time.

WELSHPOOL. CHURCH SUNDAY SCHOOLS PRIZE DISTRIBUTION. DISTRIBUTION. On Sunday afternoon in the Town Hall, the Vicar (Rev D "f Davis) presided over the annual distri- bution of prizes to the scholars attending the Gun- grog, Berriew street and Christ Church Schcola. The large hall was packed with an assombly of scholars, and those interested in their success, indeed the gathering assumed such proportions that the supply of seats ran short, many having to stand. The Vicar was supported on the platform by Mrs Mrs Hawksworth, and her sister Mrs Peppy, Bird- pore, India, with the Rev E M Fitzgerald, Vicar of Prees, Shropshire. The meeting opened with the. singing of O come all ve faithful," after whioh The Socretary (Mr W Smith) read his report on the year's work, at the outset stating that the schools continued to flourish, the number of scholars exceeding those of 1899 or any previous year. In Christ Church school the average attendance for 1899 was 134, against 130 in 1898; in the Gungrog school 82, against 78; in the Boys' school 70, against 72; in the Girls' school 83, against 94; in the Belan school 54, against 54; in the Men's Bible Class 88, against 84; and in the Women's Class 16, against 15. These figures, he thought, were satis- factory and showed a slight increase over 1898, when the total attendance was 525 compared with 527 for 1899. In conclusion, he thanked the clergy, superintendents, teachers, and scholars, for the ready help they had always'given him as Secretary of the schools. The Rev E M Fitzgerald then delivered the annual address, confining his remarks mainly to the children, who followed him with the greatest interest. He took as his text a verse from the third chapter in the Book of Revelations, I have set before thee an open door," words which he thought singularly applicable to the present time, the first Sunday in the New Year. He afterwards dealt exhaustively with his subject, interspersing it with apt illustrations, under five heads: The open door of Christ, the open door of the Church, the open door of prayer, the open door of oppor- tunity, and the open door of Heaven. The Vicar explained that the prizes in the Men's Bible Class would not be given that afternoon, but next Sunday, at three o'clock, in the Church House, when the Rev H Hawkins, Vicar of Guilsfield, would preside. Continuing, he said he was sure they were all deeply indebted to their indefutiguable secretary, Mr Smith. At this stage Mrs Hawksworth handed the prizes to the scholars of the Gun grog and Christ Church Schools, and Mrs Peppy to the scholars of the Berriew Street Schools. Tho list of successful scholars was as follows :— GTTNGROO SCHOOL. Miss Pollie Ellis' class-Nellie Ellis, Katie Hamer. Miss Rowlands' class Frank Meredith, Willie Ingram, George Oliver. Mies Annie Adams' class — Lucy Horley, Annie Evans. Miss Roderick Sayce, George Hamer. Mr Sidney Rider's class—Richard Price. Harold Da vies. Miss Wall's c'ass—Eddie Ingram, Albert Davies. Miss Wor- eley's class—Agnes Ingram, Jano Rowlands, Beabia Pritchard. Miss Davies' clasG-Thomas Meredith, John Taylor, George Price. Miss G Rud^e's class- Katie Pugh. Margaret Owen, Pattie Griffiths. Miss Owen's class—Winnie Davies, Maggie Meredith, Edith Oliver. Miss Rudge's class—George Davies, Thomas Edwards. CHRIST C'lUliCU SCHOOL. Nellie Wood, Mary Prv00, Nellie Gardiner, Lizzie Sis-sv Williams, Flossy Higgins, Charlotte Meredith., Minnie Buckingham, Alice Morris, Elsie Williams. Armio Gardiner, Edith Trow, Bertha Baker.. Gladys Harris, Emily Higgins, Maggie Gardiner. Eva Mary Jones, Annie Meredith, Harriet Preece, Florrie Prvce, Mary Davids, Annie Evans, Bertie Trow, Harry Sapple, Willie Baker,' Willie Hammonds, Jobie Wilcox, Oliver Wilcox, Albert Morris, George Preece, Edward Williams, Arohie James, Ernest Sapple. Fred Beckingham, Richard Evans, Edward Lewis, Arthur Roberts. Attended regularly for two years: John Meredith, John Edward Davie3, Ernest Daviss, John Sydney Lewis, Ernest Trow, Ethel Davies, Francis Smith, Elsie Davies, Lucy Williams. Attended for three y^ars Percie Evans. For four years: William Smith, Frederick Smith, Wilfred Smith, Maggie Smith, Alice Evans. Attended for six years Bertie Jones, Lizzie Williams. Attended for eight years: Annie Williams. BERRIEW STREET GIRLS' SCHOOL. Miss II Barker's class—Alice Pugh and Emma Pugh. Class 10—Edith Bristhouse and Florrie Post-on. Miss Thomas' class-Agnes Bowen, Dora. Bosven, Lizzio Humphreys and Shade Jones. Miss A Barker's class—Rose Hodge and Victoria Price. Miss Maggie Jones' class— Emily Ellen Higgins and Francis II Higgins. Miss Barker's class—May Humphreys and Gertrude Williams. Miss Clara Jones' class—Phoebe Brighouse, Rose Bowen and Edith Humphreys. Mis? Owen's class—Louio Humphreys, Annie Pugh, Ada Hodge, Ethel Jones and Alice Evans. Miss Amy Jones'„ class—Florence Brighouse and Susie Pryco. BERRIEW STREET BOYS' SCHOOL. Mr F Lambert's lass-Bortie Pryce (one year), Percy Jestico, Harry Parry. Mr J clas8- Charles Humphreys (one year), Victor Jestico, George Blair, George Gooding. Mr G Bowen's class—Ernest Brighouse (2 years), John Pryce (6 years). Class 6—Thomas Trow (4 years), James Ellis, David Trow (4 years). Mr F Anderson's class—Walter Brighouse (4 years), Thomas Waters (3 years). Mr E J Francis' class— John Smith (5 years), Fr«d Bluck (3 years). Mr F P Hughes' class—Edward Morris, John Owen (3 years), Fred Evans, John Morris. Mr J Maddox's class—Edwin Gwalchmay (1 year), Edward Humphreys (6 years). Miss M A Jones, superintendent of the Berriew street Girls' School, in her report stated that the average attendance during 1899 was 83. Thirteen girls from the school had left the town during the year. Two 11 uw attended the Gungrog Sunday School. The number on the register was now 119. Full attendances had been made by the following girls:—For eight years, Stisie Pryce; for seven years, Rose Bowen, Louie Humphreys, Agnes Bowen, nnd Lizzie Humphreys; for six years, Alice Evans and Dora Bowen for four years, Florence Brighouse and Phoebe Brighouse for two years. Ada Hodge, kJice Pagh, Edith Brighouse, and Annie Pugh; for one year, Ethel Jones, Slade Jones, Roso Hodge, Edith Humphreys and May Hum- phreys. The Vicar said he thought the reports, which had been read, very satisfactory. They showed that good, honest work had been done by the teachers dnring the past year and he was exceed- icgly indebted to them for their serTices. They were also grateful to the secretary, to the ladies who had so gracefully distributed the awards, to Mr Fitzgerald for so excellent an address, and to Mr T M Pryce for presiding at the harmonium. The meeting concluded with the singing of While Shenherd's waich" and with prayer by the Vicar.

BERRIEW. PETTY SESSIONS. Before Capt Johnes and Mr W J Corbett-Wiuder. EDUCATION. — Thomas Goodwin, Cefn Vaynor, and Robert Williams, Bridge End, were summoned by Robert Tomley, Montgomery, for not sending their children regularly to school. Fined 5s eaoh. Attendance orders were made against Ed Joues, Middle House, and Joseph Brooks and the eases agaiust W Bennett, Llandinain By take, and Robert Pryce, Flasllv/yn, were dismissed. MAINTENANCE ORDER. — Thomas Evans and J Evans, Manafon, were summoned by J Wilson, relieving officer, Caarsws, for a, maintenance order. —An order was made fur 23 eacl1 per week towards their parents' support. NON-PAYMENT OF RATES.—Thomas Evans, Ty- mawr, Manafon, was summoned by Joseph Watkin, overseer, Manafon, for non-payment of rates.— Order made for payment of the amount due in 14 days. DRUNKENNESS. — William Wilkinson, labourer' Welshpool, was charged by P.C. Davies, Berriew, with being drunk and disorderly on the highway leading to Welshpool on Saturday, December 30th. ( —Fined 7s including costs. -0- Mr Albert Maurice, of 122, Harley street, London, has been appointed Honorory Dental Sur^ein to the BeTcrrave Hospital for Children.

OSWESTRY. RURAL PARISH COUNCIL. An ordinary meeting of the Council was held in the House of Industry, Morda, on Monday night, there being present Messrs A (chairman), W Evans (vice-chairman), A Whitfield, T Robinson, R J Roberts, E D Nicholson, J W Edwards, J W Davies, and W Jones, with Mr Davies, jun. (clerk). Mr Robinson, pursuant to notice, moved that a slab be placed across a brook at the Fron, Tre- fouen. He said a number of children went from the Fron to Trefonen to school and at presuiit crossed the brook on stones placed in the bed, and if this slab was put across it would be of great con- venience. He had got an estimate amounting to 12s.—It was agreed that the work should be carried out.—A communication was received from the Local Government Board calling attention to the Parish Councillors Tenure of Office Act. Previously the term of office of a Councillor was a year which terminated on April 15th, but in future the council- lors will be elected for a period of three years, and the councillors at present in office will continue in office until April 15, 1901, and the elections will take place every third year. The ChHirnlèa, how- ever, is to be elected ,inniially.-The Chairman fiaid it would be a good thing not to have the elections coming so often.—A statement was made by the Chairman that the pariah councillors had collected about XSO towards the reservists' fund.-—Mr W Evans said he had collected over E21 now.—There was no other business of interest. INCORPORATION—MONDAY. Present: Mr John Richards (vice-chairman), presiding; the Rev T M Bulkeley-Owen, Messrs A C Nicholson, David Vaughan, R Wainwright, J H N Walford, R Howell Davies. T Whitfield, E Goff, T Ward Green, W E Frith, Joseph Vaughan, W Humphreys, A C Peate, J Cartwright, W Evans, J Sauds, W Roberts, W M Richards; with Mr J C Bull, ccrk; Mr C II Bull, assistant clerk; Mrs Price and. Mr Reynolds, relieving officers; Mr G Fulcher, master. MISCELLANEOUS. Mr Nicholson submitted the report of the Finance Committee recommending payments amounting to £ 67 13s 2d, and the report was adopted. REMEMBERING THE PAUPERS. Pursuant to notice given, Mr Howell Davies moved that Is extra relief for one week be granted to each family receiving relief, subject to the ap- proval of the. Local Government Board. He said it would be an act of kindness to grant this. Similar applisctions had been made by other Boards and sanctioned hy. the Local Government Board.-Mr J Vaughan seconded.—The Clerk stated, in reply to Mr Ward Green, that the proposal would cost be- tween £ 10 and £ 11.—On a division, the motion was rejected. APPOINTMENT OF RELIEVING OFFICER. The five candidates selected by the Board ap- peared before the Incorporation. When a certain candidate appeared, Mr Howell Davies asked if he could speak Welsh and re'ceived a negative reply. It was stated that neither of the present relieving officers could speak Welsh.— Mr Perks said the Welsh never applied for relief (laughter).-The following appeared Messrs A Hughes, Llanfarda P C Hines, porter at the Workhouse Seth Powell, Oswestry R H Richards, Victoria road, Oswestry; and Oliver, Churchstoke.—Mr Walford proposed and Mr Ward Green seconded, the application of Mr H David Vaughan proposed, Mr Perks '■seconded, and Mr ilowell Davies supported, the application of Mr Seth Powell.—On a vote, 7 voted for Powell and 9 for Hines, who was therefore appointed. He thanked the Board and said he would do his utmost to giv-e satisfaction. TWO POSTS VACANT. Mr and Mr Hines sent in their resignations of the posts of porter and laundress which were accepted.—It was agreed to advertise in the COUNTY TIMES and two other papers for successors at salaries of X25 and R18 per annum respectively. THE HOUSE. The Master acknowledged the following gifts :— Oranges and sweets from Mrs Thomas, Ardmillan, for the inmates of the hospital; illustrated papers from Miss Lloyd (Aston Hall), Messrs C G Bayley and Pugh. He reported that Mr and Mrs Wynne Corrie desired to treat the whole of the inmates to a tea and a musical entertainment on Thursday; Mr Greenwood Leach desired to give a. concert on a date to be fixed the Kentucky Minstrels a concert and Mr F G Davies, schoolmaster, Morda, a concert for the benefit of the inmates.—Per- mission was granted, and in the latter case the master was allowed to admit the public and make a small charge for admission. THE MAGISTRATES AND THE BOARD. The Master reported on the case of James Caird, a lunatic, who was sent to the House, but was re- fused admittance on the ground that there was no accommodation for such cases. The Master stated that whilst in town on business on the evening of December 27 the man was) brought to the House with an order from the Medical Officer to Mrs Price who did not give an order because she thought it was not a fit case. On the next dav Supt Lewis brought the man back, with a magistrates' order. He saw the assistant porter and asked to be shown the receiving room. The assistant porter went to the master who returned with him. Supt Lewis banded him the notice and he told him he could not accept the man, owing to the Board's instruc- tions regarding such cases. He said, The man is a lunatic," and Supt Lewis replied, No, no more a lunatic than I am." Those were his words. He refused to admit the man and put his back against the door, but Snpt Lewis pushed past him and the man followed him out. They jumped into the cab and drove away leaving the man behind, and that was the last he heard of him. He thought that if the man had attempted to commit suicide as it was alleged that he had, he could be removed as quickly to the Asylum as to the House. He sent a com- munication to the Superintendent telling him that the man had followed his cab immediately, and the letter was returned unopened. That letter might have contained a request to the police to send up a man because the man had attempted murder.—Mrs Price, relieving officer, stated that Supt Lewis stopped her on the street and asked her why she was not at home to attend to her duties, and she replied that such a question was below her Qignity to answer, and she wrote to him the next dav on the matter.—The Chairman read the letter.—The Chairman said it was to be regretted that the chair- man was not present to deal with tho matter, and he thought it one that they could not pass over. The Supt of police no doubt was acting legally under the instructions of the Magistrates in bringing tho man to the House, but when he tried to raid the House and leave behind a man whom the master had refused he believed he exceeded his duty. When the Board gave the officers instructions they must support them in carrying them out, and he thought Supt. Lewis should be reported. It was moat nn- gentlemanly and he had exceeded his duty. He proposed that the clerk should write to the chief constable informing him of the behaviour of Supt Lewis.—ATr W Roberts asked if they could not get Snpt Lewis to attend, and the chairman replied ti,o.t the Board had no powe.Air Roberts said the reason he asked the question was because he had heard different tales.- The Chairman said Superintendent Lewis would state his case to his authorities.—Mr E Goff seconded the Chairman's proposition.—The Chairman said the resolution to refuse these cases was the action of a former Board. It was moved by Major Lovett, who was a magistrate, and knew the House well, and it waq seconded by the Rev E W 0 Bridgeman, who had been on the Board for upwards of forty years, and these gentlemen knew the accommodation at the House better than the borough magistrates who did not have a thorough knowledge of it. The Board was fully prepared to take the responsi- bility in those cases. He felt thut when they acted like that it was the duty of the Board to pro- test. The proposition was carried. RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL. Mr J Richards presided over a meeting of this Council, which was convened to confirm the busi- ness of the previous meeting, when there was no quorum.—The Sanitary Inspector (Mr G C Smith) sent in a satisfactory report on his aunual itispee- tion of the canal boats.—The Clerk stated that the steam roller bad arrived Lhat day (hear, hear ).— The Sanitary Inspector being confined to his bed with illness, and not being likely to resume duties for a month, Mr R H Richards, Victoria road, was appointed to carry OIl the duties pro. tem. TOWN COUNCIL.—MONDAY. Present: The Mayor (Councillor R H Mason), Aldermen G Owen, T Whitfield, W 11 Spaull, C G Bayley Councillors W T Jones, G Perks, J P Sheather, R Daniel, E Bremner Smith, S Lloyd, C E Williams, T Poole, W Martin, W H Plimmer, R Howell Davies, E B Thompson, J Maclardy, and Dr Lewis, with Mr J Parry-Jones, town clerk Mr Jackson, deputy clerk; Mr W Thomas, finance clerk; and Mr G W Lacey, borough surveyor. CORRESPONDENCE. The Town Clerk stated that he had received a letter from the Bridgnorth Council thanking the Council for the courtesy extended to the deputation which visited Oswestry recently, and in a private letter the Ex-Mayor (Dr Lewis) was thanked for his hospitality.—Mr Ferrington, secretary to the Library Committee, wrote stating that his com- mittee had directed him to call attention to the imperfect ventilation and lighting of the reading room.—The Town Clerk stated that he had seen Mr Diamond, who said that the lighting had been improved, but there were other matters which needed attention. He suggested that the letter should be referred to the Watch Committee for consideration.—Agreed to.—The County Clerk wrote stating, with reference to the county rate assessment, that the committee had carefully con- sidered the matter, and could not see their way to make any altern.tian.-The Town Clerk explained that the committee appointed by the Town Council was courteously received at Shrewsbury. They ascertained that the basis for the county rate assessment was taken from the basis of Imperial taxation, which differed considerably from the basis of the Town Council.—Mr R Daniel said the committee could not inform them in detail how the difference arose, and suggested that the Town Council should obtain a copy of Schedule A of the income tax and ve"ify the county assessment. If during the year a discrepancy was discovered the county would alter it. In future the assessment would be made each year instead of three or four years as before. He proposed that the Council should obtain a copy of the schedule and that the Incorporation Assessment Committee be asked to obtain a copy with a view to correcting the whole Union if there was need.—Mr Powell seconded.—Mr Bremner Smith said his experience and the experience of others was that the surveyor of taxes fixed the amount himself. It was a serious matter to make the imperial taxation basis the basis for their assessment and it seemed to him that that course did away with the necessity of overseers and Assessment Committees. He did not agree with the principle that the surveyor of taxes, who knew probably less than any of them there, should fix the value.—Mr Whitfield also sup- ported, and said if they could relieve a man from paying aClOO a year more than he ought they should do so. The propositions were carri;d.-The Town Clerk reported his visit to the Board of Agriculture and said that tho Swine Fever Order had been revoked and the market was now open. GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE. Mr Whitfield submitted the report of this com- mittee which recommended that the survovor be allowed to take an additional pupil during the remainder of the present pupil's term; that Mi- Edward Hughes, a former pupil of the surveyor, be appointed as his assistant for two months at a salary of.El per week that plans for five houses in Gobowen road for Mr Ellis Hughes, and for office in Bailey street for Mr Leather be approved that proceedings be taken against Mr J Morgan Jones for allowing two houses in Welsh Walls to be inhabited without first obtaining a certificate from the surveyor, and that he be informed that lie must take down the wall erected at the rear to allow the prescribed air space.—The first three recommendations were approved. As to Air- Morgan Jones' houses Mr Whitfield moved the recommendation of the committee and asked the Town Clerk to read a letter from Mr Morgan Jones. —The Town Clerk said he had written to Mr Morgan Jones appealing to him to comply with the by-laws, failing which proceedings would be taken. He received a letter that morning from Mr J Morgan Jones in which he stated that he had asked the surveyor for a certificate for his houses in the Welsh Walls, but owing to the wall being so high, in the surveyor's opinion, not in his own, it was not according to the by-laws. The Council required 150 feet of air area and he had 310, which was behind the house which was temporarily occupied, so the height of the wall was only a matter of opinion. As regarded the shop and warehouse, he sa w that he had built according to the plan except for the partition wall. He sug- gested that the Council should appoint a committee consisting of Dr Lewis, Messrs Smith, Spanli, C E Williams and R Daniels (laughter) to inspect.—Mr Whitfield said in this case there was a double offenc)- allowing two houses to be occupied in what Mr Morgan Jones termed temporarily, and building the wall directly in opposition to what th" original plan showed. On the original pla.n 15 feet space was shown, but instead of that space being allowed at the back of the premips a wall had been built 7 feet 6 inches from the rear of one house and 6 feet 8 inches from that of the other, curtailing more than one half of the space shewn on the original plan. The Council might appoint a com- mittee, but the fact remained that the houses had been allowed to become tenanted, without the Sur- veyor's certificate being granted. He moved the adoption of the recommendation that proceedings be taken.Mr R Daniel seconded.—Mr Howell Davies said he was in an awkward position because he lived near the houses and Mr Morgan Jones was a relative and it might be said that he was advocating his claims, but what he was going to do was the intention of preventing the Council taking a step for which they would be sorry afterwards. This was a question about two out of four houses, which of the two they were not told. He hoped the Council would appoint a com- mittee, and ho was sure that Mr Morgan Jones would do what the Council required of him. He was sure no builder in the town would defy the Council in their desire to carry out the by-laws. There was a difference of opinion about the by-laws, and he would like the Council to be sure before they proceeded. He could not under- stand why this man should be proceeded against whilst others were allowed to go free. Some seemed to have a taste for blood and wanted moro (laughter). The Town Clerk stated the other day that proceedings were taken against Mr Morgan Jones some years ago. It was not for occupying a hause without having had the surveyor's certificate, but it was for building a 4J inch wall instead of a 9 inch. He was summoned and he paid the fine. Why had the Surveyor refused the certificate ? He wanted to find out. He hoped the Council would not take the step, for he did not want to have the chairman of the committee put into the undignified position of having to withdraw the summons and say it was a mistake, and that it would not be done again (laughter). He proposed a committee be appointed to inspect.—MrThompson seconded.—Mr Lloyd spoke in favour of the pro- position.—Mr Bremner Smith said there was only one thing before the Council, and that was that a person had permitted two houses to be occupied without a certificate. If the surveyor was wrong the Committee wonld know; and by their vote they declared he was not wrong. His memories went back about 18 years, and Mr Morgan Jones was then summoned for a very same offence, so that he knew exactly what it was to occupy a house with- out a certificate or licence from the Surveyor. Mr Howell Davies said Mr Jones was not summoned for allowing a house to be occupied without a certificate as Mr Smith had'said. It was for another thing and the Council lost the case and had to pay the costs.—Mr Jackson said he defended in the case and that statement was not correct.—Mr Whitfield said Mr Howell Davies had been throwing a lot of mud at the Surveyor that morning. (Mr Davies protested against the remark). He had also said that he would be put into an undignified position. Never had a block of buildings been put up in Oswestry where the by-laws had been tried to be broken, more than in the present buildings. They could construe the matter as they liked, the origia- al plans nor the by-laws had been complied with.- The proposition was carried. BY-LAWS. By-laws for prevention and suppression of nuisances; as to pleasure and recreation grounds as to markets; as to new streets and bnildingy, slaughter houses, hackney carriages, common lodging houses, cleaning of footways, &c., sanitary convenience, and offensive trades, were adopted. They will be open for inspection for one month during which time objections (if any) may be laid against any of them. MOTIONS. Motions by Mr Howell Davies as to supplying men in charge of Corporation horses with oilskin coats, and for the repair of the crossing leading to Cambrian street were referred to the committee. A WARM DISCUSSION. In accordance with notice, Mr Bremner Smith moved that the fine payable on resignation of office of councillor be reduced to one shilling. At the present time the fine was zC25, which was an antiquated enactment. If in a large place like Liverpool the fine was Is, he could fairly expect that amount as being enough for Oswestry. A member of the council may feel it his duty to resign and gave his reason for so doing, and if that member was doing his duty sin- cerely, it was very hard that the Council should find him JE25 for doing it.—Mr SpanH seconded.—■ Air Whitfield proposed an amendment that the fee should remain the same as before. Since 1873 the Conncil had had two cases of retirement to deal with, and the cheques had been returned. Cer- tainly no inconvenience had been felt In a place where political feeling ran high, if. might be different. A man might say Let us fight it out before the electors." (A Voice That has been done here.") He thought it was nonsense (laughter). He looked at it in this way: If retire- ment meant such a cost there would not be so many elections. If a man did not care to be on the Council be could stay away for six months, and his seat would be declared vacant as had been done by another Board in town.— Mr Sheather said he was at the last meeting whan a motion was brought forward by a member with regard to the filtration of water and he fell under the lash of the Councillor who was now proposing this motion. He (the member) could hardly find words strong enough to express his contempt for the manner in which it was brought and eventually it was ordered tn lie on thn floor '1")'1,1"r it was stigmatized as the most absurd resolution ever brought forward in that room. If this matter was seriously brought forward Mr Watkin Jones' resolution last Friday would have to take a back seat and the present a front one. To his mind the position of the Council would be that when members felt a little peevish in the-morning the Town Clerk would be sitting at the end of the room receiving the shilling and if the member felt a little more peevish than usual he could pay it in coppers. Such a resolution should not be submitted to suah a Council. When a man took office in that room it was with a keen desire to be of some service to the people he represented. To bring forward a proposition of that kind and ask them seriously to vote in the question of allowing a member, who might be suffering from some irrita- tion of temper by crossing some of his pet schemes to pay his shilling he thought was derogative to the Council.—Mr Watkin Jones said he could not give the silent vote without saying a few words. This shilling proposition took the cake (laughter). He was sui prised that Councillor Smith should pro- pose this because be was the champion resigner of the Council. When he was made mayor, because they would not make him chairman of the Markets Committee, he resigned his position. When he was made chairman, lie objected again and resigned, but reconsidered the matter. He might again resign off the Markets Committee, and perhaps be the consulting chairman. Of all the ridiculous thiugs that had ever been proposed that was it. If a man did not want to it on the Council let him stay away for six months as he did with the Board of Guardians and then they could throw him out. He got what he wanted (laughter).—Mr Poole thought it was desirable that this .£25 penalty should be retained. It was a deterrent against violent expression of feeling which would lead to retirement. In case of illness and a member resigned, as Mr Whitfield had said, the cheques had been returned and the same could be done again. Ha wouid vote against the resolution. —Mr C E Wil- liams also said he would vote against it for the reason that if it was carried the town would be put to the expense of a number of by-elections.—Mr Daniel thought it would be unwise to alter the penalty. — Mr Martin supported the amendment, remarking that when a member took office he also took the responsibilities.—Mr S Lloyd said he had been,, waiting for some explanation. Councillor Watkin Jones was ridiculed and worried very much on Friday because he did not give an explanation of bis proposal. He (Mr Lloyd) couid see that that motion was not going to be carriod that day— (laughter)—because Mr Smirh had failed to give some reasons why he had brought it forward, and what advantage there would i-e to the town, or Council, or anybody. He looked at the expense to the town. As it had already been said by Coun- cillor Sheather, if a man was crosr, no would walk out of the room. They had heard of that in the magistrates' meeting. If the retirement fee was only to be a shilling, a member could upset the whole Council and Committees.—irr Plimmer said he had been asking himself the question who was going to be the backslider (laughter). He never thought of Mr Bremner Smith, as he had money. If they reduced the fine they would be having elections every month.—Mr Bremner Smith, in reply, said notwithstanding the remarks made he still adhered to the opinion that a fine of one shilling was ample under the circumstances. He cared not for the views of inexperienced nobodies with no practice of local government. Almost every municipal body had fines at one shilling, so he had not got all of the wisdom and that somebody had outside Oswestry. All he asked them was to follow the example of others, they could not get Far wrong. He repeated that this £25 fine was an antiquated matter, and if the Council's by-laws had beer, brought up to date they would have the fine at Is. Referring to a statement that a mem- ber conld get off tho Council by being absent six months, the speaker said the term was three years, and the ward would be disfranchised. Regard- ing his resignation referred to, he said he did 80 because he felt an indignity had been offered him, and as long as he lived he would maintain his dignity. It was quite true he left the Bench the other day, and he did not think there W9S a single member of the Bench that day who thought he did wrongly. It was not customary for the Bench of magistrates to explain their course of conduct in that place. It was a piece of impertinence on the part of Samuel Lloyd to men. tion it there that day. Having gone that far, he would go a bit further. It had always been his duty at the Council, so far as laid in his power, to respect the opinion of the majority. If he proposed a resolution and was defeated he may fairly claim that ho afterwarde worked heartily with the majority. It was quite clear he was in the minority that morning and he respected the majority; consequently he asked to be permitted to withdraw his motion. Permission was given. —Mr Watkin Jones asked the Town Clerk if a member would not be disqualified by absenting himself for six months, and the Town Clerk re- plied in the negative.—Mr Watkin Jones: How could they do it below (meaning the Incorpora- tion). The Council then rose.

ELLESMERE. THE LATH JOHN DAVIES OF BLACKWOOD.—The public were surprised to hear of the death of Mr John Davie8 of Blackwood, Penley, on Monday, at the early age of 48. Mr Davies had for upwards of 30 years attended Ellesmere Smithneld, and was one if not the largest dealer attending Ellesmere fairs, and will be greatly missed. He was to all appearances a strong active man. A few weeks ago he took cold and pneumonia setting in resulted in his death. He leaves a widow and five children. The funeral took place yesterday at Penley, LITERARY SOCIETY.—The weekly meeting was held in the Town Hall on Wednesday, Mr R E Lloyd (president) in the chair. There was a very large audience to hear a debate on The poor law: Should out-door relief be further extended ?" Mr John Hood was to take the affirmative, and the Rev Henry Moody, Vicar of Welshampton, the negative. Mr Hood opened the debate, and spoke strongly in f lvour of out-door relief as a great saving to the ratepayers and better for the poor in every way, and concluded by moving a resolution, That out-door relief be further extended to deserving people." The Rev Henry Moody moved as an amendment, ''That out-door relief being subject to so many difficulties and dangers it is expedient to minimie it as far as possible." He considered it would increase pauperism to increase out-relief. — Mr F Ashley seconded Mr Hood's proposal in an excellent speech, and Miss Jebb, Lee Hall, seconded Mr Moody's amendment in a telling speech. A splendid debate followed, which was kept up with great spirit until 10 p.m., when the Chairman put the motion and amendment. Mr Hood's motion was carried by a large majority, but many people did not vote either way. • Next, week Mr Lea, Kinsale, will open a debate on The best way to keep the labourer on the laud." BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—TUESDAY. Present: Mr Brownlow R C Tower (chairman), presiding, the Rev T J Rider (vice-chairman), the Rev S T Wilson Barker, the Rev W C E Kynaston, and the Rev H Moody, Messrs J D Owen, H D Chapman, J Woodville, John Hood, J Darlington, o J Evans, S J Lewis, and A J P Child with Mr R E Lloyd, clerk. OUT-RELIEF. Out-relief administered during the past fortnight: Ellesmere district, per Mr W H Rutter, £13 4s 4d to 107 recipients in the first week of the fortnight, as compared with £9163 4d to 114 last year second week, £8 16s 6d to 107 recipients, compared with £928 to 114 panpers Ilanmer district, per Mr W Williams, £2 19i1 6d to 31 in both weeks, as against £2 138 to 26 in both weeks. THE HOUSE. The Master (Mr Davies) reported that the num- ber in the House was 62 as against 69 in the first week; and 62 against 70 in the second week. Tramps relieved 112, against 104. On Christmas morning each of the inmates received a Christmas letter card kindly sent by the Christmas Letter Mission by Mrs W Briscoe, Shifnal. He acknow- ledged with thanks from Mrs Brownlow Tower toys and sweets for the children; from Airs Wanton, cake and buns Mr and Mrs Marsden, Blackpool, tobacco, cake, oranges, figs and cards for the nursery children. On Christmas Day the inmates were supplied with a good dinner of roast beef and plum pudding, and on New Year's Day a good tea consisting of plum and seed cake, jam, oranges, apples, and sweets.—A vote of thanks was accorded those who had made gifts.

LLANERFYL. CAROL SERVICE. — The usual Epiphany carol service was held at this church on Monday even- ing. The service was read by the Rector, the Rev C Harington, and carols were sung by parties from Llangadfan, Llanerfyl, and Llanfair. Although the weather was exceedingly wet and stormy there was a very large congregation, the church being crowded.

LL'ANLLU GAN. MR HERBERT'S RENT ACDIT. The half-yearly rent audit was held at the Cefncoch Inn on Satur- day, when Mr Rowlands attended to receive the rents. An excellent dinner was provided by Mr and Mrs Arthur. Afterwards the usual loyal toasts were given and several songs rendered. Seven. CI,rl.CI.11'1f r1"" Tint. rednHion was !1]]OWf'n.

THE LATE MISS POWELL, NEWTOWN. On Monday the mortal remains of Powell, only daughter of Mr and Mrs Powell, Plasybrvn, were conveyed to their last resting-place amid universal signs of sympathy and condolence on the part of the inhabitants, blinds being drawn and other signs of sympathy being manifest during the day. Several of the leading tradesmen closed their estab- lishments as a mark of respect. The funeral was a private one. The procession started from Plasy- bryn soon after two o'clock, and took the following order :—First carriage, Revs R Evan-Jone=, and T Enoch; the hearse; third carriage, Mr Edward Powell and two sors, Mr Sydney and Mr Arthur Powell fourth carriage, Col Pryce-.Jon^s, M P., Mr Matthew Powell, Mr Thomas Powell, and Mr W E Pryce-Jones; Dolerw carriage, Mr Clayton Powell, Mr A W Pryce-Jones, Mr George Wik-m, Master Victor Prvce-Jones, and Dr Purchas Caerhowel oarriage, Mr T R Morris, Mr Archibald Read, Masters Noel, Aleck, and Walter Powell; Plasv- brvn carriage, containing the family wreaths; eighth carriage, two nurses; ninth carriage, bearers; tenth carriage, undertakers. The vehicle which conveyed the coffin was a platform hearse. The coffin was placed on the centre and covered with a white pall, whilst this was covered with trails of flowers, whilst right around the wreaths were placed, in fact the entire vehicle was literally loaded with a beautiful array of flowsrs. The place of inter- ment was Llanllwchaiarn Churchyard, which, by the time the solemn cortege had arrived, was thronged with people. The procession was met at the church gates by the Revs R Evan-Jones and T Enoch, the choir lining the path. The service wag most impressive, the choir singing a special hymn, 1 No 261, "Blessed are the pure in heart." The ¡ officiating clergy were the Revs R Evan-Jones and T Enoch, the former officiating at the grave-side. On arriving at the grave one was again struck with the magnificent array of wreaths and other emblems of love which were placed on the graveside. The grave itself was a brick one lined with moss, whilst the following flowers were prettily arranged on the mosli which had a very pleasing effect amid the sombre surroundiugs: — White camellias, maiden hair ferns, chrysanthemums, hyaein.is, tulips, arum lilies, narcissus, liliums, lily of valley. This work was doni by Mr J J Lawson. of Dickson's Nursery, Newtown. The coffin was supplied by Messrs E Davies and Son, and wAs ma le of oak, heavily moulded, panel, and fitted with raised and moulded lid, plated fittings, and the shieid bore the £ following inscription :—" Nora, the only daughter I of Edward and Miry Eleanor Powoih of Plasybrvn, Newtown born March 24th, 1881, left vis January 3rd, 1900." A large number of magnificent wreaths, crosses, &e., were sent. The parents upon the grave an anchor of lichen and violets, and a harp of f lilies of the valley with strings of violets, the first one severed, and the two brothers a wreath of lilies of the valley and a cross of violets. Other wreaths sent were from Grandpa and Grandma," Uncle Pryce and Auntie Beatrice," "Cou-ins Victor and Irene." "Uncle Ernest," "Uncle Harry," Auntie Cis; "Uncle Fr.lnk," "(Jon.Jin Elpa!:(.r," "Uncle Archie and Auntie Kate," Auntie Rose," Uncle Matthew and Auntie Ellen," I' Cousin F.thel," Uncle Tom and AIltje Pollie," Uncle George and Auntie Mary," Uncle Bert and Auntie Ida," "Uncle Cleaton and Auntie Nellie," < Uncle Tom and Auntie," Mr and Mrs R Parry," J Miss Arthur and Miss Adderley," the Misses j Jones, Bank House," Mr and the Misses Ritchie," 1 the Misses Hall," Col and Mrs Robinson," "Muriel," May Goff," "Misses ll-m-i* and Edith Harrison," Mr C B Harris and fami! Mr and the Misses Read," Casteil Forwyn f u.riy," Mrs Laird," Mrs Boddow," Capt and Mrs Walker," Dr and Mr-. Palmer and George," Bessie," "The Rev Evan Jones and family, London," Mr and Mrs Cuthbert Keeson and Ivy," Miss E 0 Arthur and Miss A Adderley," Mr, Mrs and Misses Humphreys," Mrs E Morgan," Mrs Alex- ander Davies." "Nyoddfraith family," "Daisy," "Young friends, Newtown Rectory," "r rc¡ Morris and Mrs Martin," Mr and -Mrs Morh-y E Park," Mr and Mrs Smith, Glanhafren," Mrs David Kinsey," Misses II and E Jones and Mrs Lam- ) bert," Mr E and E C Davies," "Mr and Mrs D H j Lewis," "Servants, Dolerw," "Servants, Plasy- 1 bryn," Miss Barry Jupp." The funeral arrange- ments were carried out by Mr D H Lewis, Trade Hall, Newtown.

--+- FORDEN RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL.—WEDNESDAY. Present: Mr J Holloway (chairman), Messrs R Jones (Aston), E R Owen, C T B Bailey, R Jones (Churchstoke), D Davies, J Davies, J Edwards, and Rev J Sawer; with Messrs C S Pryce (clerk), W P Hole (surveyor), and J E Snook (inspector).—The Talbot Road Letters were read from the agent to Major Cerbett-Winder, saying that, as the Talbot road had been used and repaired as a public high- way, he did not feel justified in contributing more than any other ratepayer to the coat of repairing or fencing it.—A committee was appointed to superintend the carrying out of t.he fencing.—The Clerk said that. he had written to the County Sur- veyor asking for the gratuitous use of the steam roller in repairing the road, as both ends were county bridge approaches, and it reHeved the traffic, which would otherwise go along the county road, running parallel to it. The County Sur. veyor's reply stated that the steam roller could be hired bv the Council at the usual rates.—The Clerk was directed to write the County Coun- cil, applying for the free use of the engine upon the grounds enumerated above.—The Llan. fair Light Railway It was agreed to apply to the Public Works Loan Board for an advance of £500, the sum it had been arranged to loan to the Llan- fair Light Railway.- The War Fund The Clerk reported that he had, as directed at the last meet- ing, written to the [clergymen of the parishes in the rural district, with the view of starting collec- tions in support of the War Fund, and had received letters from most of them, saying that such funds had been or were being ra-isod.Alotor Cars: The Council agreed to adopt the resolntion forwarded by the Yeovil District Council, and to suggest to the Local Goveremsnt Board the desirability of the Light Locomotives Order, 1896, being amended, so that the danger to which drivers and occupants of carriages and others were exposed in consequence of motor-car traffic might be minimised. The amendments proposed included the reduction of the maximum speed from 12 miles per hour to 10, or to six when approaching a curve or meeting a horse and the regulation that each locomotive should bear a denoting mark.

FORDEN BOARD OF GUARDIANS. NV F T) N S D A Y. Present, in addition to the members of the Rural District Council, Mr A C Humphreys-Owen, M.P. (who was voted to the chair, in the absence of the chairman and vice-chairman, both absent through influenza), Messrs E Roper, J P Jones and D Jones; with Mr C S Pryce (clerk).—Statistics It was reported that the number in the Workhouse was 80, against 75 last year; vagrants relieved in the fortnight 89, against 77; out-relief, £42 17s to 250 persons, against X40 7s 4d to 243; balance in the treasurer's hands, El,757 lis.—The represent- ation of WólshpLol Mr F Roper said that at the present time there were six members elected for the three portions of Welshpool, three for Pool Middle, two for Pool Lower, arid one for Pool Upper but the County Council had made an order doing away with those divisions. The six members wonld thus have to be appointed by the whole parish, and in case of a contest this would mean considerable expanse, as three polling stations would be required. He proposed that they apply to the County Council to re-divide the parish into the same wards as were now used for municipal purposes, and that the members be apportioned as follows:—Buttington Ward (168 electors) and Castle Ward (250 electors), one guardian each Guilsfield Ward (287 electors) and Llanerchydol Ward (302 electors), two guardians each.—The Chairman said it was desirable, as this was an important matter, that it shouid be treated as a notice of motion.—Mr Roper agreed, and the matter was deferred until the uext meeting.

—♦ THREATENED STRIKE AT THE WYNNSTAY COLLIERY. A dispute has arisen between the masters and the workmen at the Wynn stay Colliery, Ruabon, en the slack percentage, and other questions. The men have already "handed in their notices, which will expire to-day. As a result of this the masters, yesterday, posted the following notice on the pit bank: "Owing to the coal-getters having given notice to terminate all contracts at the Colliery, the Wynnstay Colliery Company, Ltd., are reluctantly compelled to give similar notice to all workmen. Thereforo notice is hereby given that, all contracts of service will terminate on the 20th day of January, 1900." About 800 are employed at the colliery.

You WILL gAVE Both Time and Money by Advertising in the "COUNTY TIMES" for Persona Wanted, Situations Wanted, or Miscel- laneous ArtiV.lpj W<?»:cd r,- r'