The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

CONTENTS OF INNER PAGES. PAGE 2. Machynlleth Board ofGuardians, Rural District Council and School Board; Aberdovey, Caersws, Newtown, Oswestry, Ellesmere, Llanymynech, Llanyblodwel, Selattyn, Penrhos, and Llandysilio news. PAGE 3. The War.; Departure of Volunteers; Proposed Volunteer Corps for Aberystwyth County Meeting at Shrewsbury of the Yeomanry; Chirbury and Churchstoke news; Markets; Hunting Appoint- ments The Tanat Side Harriers. PAGE b. Football Notes, Matches, &c.; Gallant Act of Bravery by a Berriew Boy; Serious Assault on a Servant near Welsh pool Forden Board of Guardians; North and South Wales Bank; Cor- respondence Llaugurig news. PAGF; 7. A New Story "The Crowning of Esther," by Morice Gerard The Cambrian Railways Arbitra- tion Poor Rates in the Parish of Towyn; The Death Roll; Reviews Local Patent.

THE COMING SESSION, The session of Parliament to be opened next week will be very different from any session within the experience of the present generation. For as many years as most of us can personally remember, the attention of Parliament has been taken up mainly with the consideration of home politics of a more or less exciting' character. There have been great reforms accomplished, revolutionary disintegrations defeated, and every session almost a financial develop- ment of some importance. This year the financial proposals will be more important than usual, for the Chancellor of the Exchequer has to provide undefined mil- lions for the prosecution of the war. But we may expect legislation and domestic reforms to occupy a secondary position, for Parliament will be absorbed by the busi- ness of this war, the greatest since the bitter struggle in the Crimea, and the first war in which England has employed an army of a hundred and fifty thousand men, sent thousands of miles across the sea, and with never a soldier among them who is not a son of the Empire. Serious and sad as are the aspects of this great war, it is happily being conducted by a Government of a strength such as, likewise, has not been known in the present generation. The Government may have severe trials before it, but we veiture to think that it will be strong enough to bear the attack of an Opposition not always dis- interested, and the criticism from certain of its own supporters, which may be candid, I I out is neither friendly nor patriotic. It is understood that the first attack on the Government will take the form of an amendment on the Address, amounting to a vote of censure. Such a vote must, of course, be resisted to the utmost, in the interest of the Empire more than of the Government. To censure the Government in the way proposed would be to play into the hands of England's enemies. For the like reason, namely, the good of the com- monwealth, Ministers could not, we assume, consent to an inquiry into military adminis- tration while the war is proceeding. Yet an inquiry at the proper time, namely, when the war is over, is what Ministers would probably welcome as affording op- portunity for their vindication from accu- sations which have been directed against their conduct of the war. An investigation would indisputably prove that where any- thing has gone wrong it has been the fault of the system, not of the administra- tion of the system by the Government. For the present we have to do the best that is possible with the existing i-ntebinery to bring the war to an end as speedily as pos- sible. A direction from which danger may least be apprehended is the movement started by certain politicians to set up a conciliation committee. It is one of the grim ironies of the situation that we are to be asked to offer conciliation to an enemy who is still within the QUEEN'S dominions, which he has invaded and ravaged to the utmost of his ability. Except some of the Irish members, and the two or three British members who are notorious sympathisers with the Boers, and have in consequence been invited by their constituents to resign their seats, we can conceive of no members of Parliament supporting this quaintly in- appropriate and unpatriotic proposal for conciliation. On the whole it cannot be assumed that there will be any united or serious attempt to make party capital out of the national trouble. It would be unjust to the Opposition front bench to assume that it will depart from the honourable traditions of the House, and make serious attempts to hamper Ministers in the con- duct of the war. If such attempts are made they will probably result in the undoing of their promoters, for, even if the official leaders commanded a party attack on the Government, it is as certain as anything can be in politics that a substantial section of Liberals would refuse to attack now, just as they refused to condemn the Government last October. Criticism may be looked for and duly answered, for we may "be sure that the responsible Ministers are eager to reply to any attacks on their respective departments. But such a, thing as an appeal to the country in the midst of the war is earnestly to be deprecated. It is as un- necessary as it is unpatriotic, for in the ordinary course of events there will be a general election next year, when the war is over, und when the people will be able, in the light of all the circumstances, to decide whether Her Majesty's Ministers have faithfully and correctly discharged the arduous and difficult duties entrusted to them.

NOTES BY THE WAY. Once again is an attempt being made to form a Volunteer corps for Aberystwyth, and at a meeting of a very enthusiastic character, ou Tuesday even- ing, definite action was taken. There were no two opinions as to having a Volunteer corps, for all were unanimously agreed as to its value. But the question of going in for artillery or infantry opened up a discussion. Judging from the tone of the speakers there appeared to be au inipresyon that if they asked for infantry they would be compelled to be attached to Montgomeryshire, a possibility highly resented by those in the room. As was pointed out by other speakers, there is every chance of Cardiganshire getting a Battalion of her Own, and the suggestion was at once warmly taken Up. The present position is this A- committee has been appointed to manage details, and the Lord-Lieutenant of the county (Col Davies-Evans) Will be asked to take the matter up. In view of the Town Council preventing the War Office putting new and more modern guns on the Castle grounds the proposal to form an artillery corps seems un- i; I" n 'M.-rrr'nl The annual meeting of the Aberystwyth Branch of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was held on Saturday. During the summer months an inspector is sent down, and last year he appears to have done some good work. The question, however, may be asked, are horses cruellv treated in the summer months only ? True, the traffic in these months is heavy and horses are worked very hard. But notwithstanding this fact there is just as much need of a careful examination of the horses employed by the carriers in the winter as in the summer. What effect will the war have on the forthcoming season along the coast ? The question is a very natural one to the people of that portion of the Principality which lies near the sea. At present thousands of families have sons and relatives out in Africa, and the death or injury of those who are dear will sadden many a home and blight the pleasures of a summer holiday. One might go further and ask, will the people care for holidays under such circumstances, will they care to leave their homes even for a trip to the delightful spots of Wales? To counteract this it should be the duty of the Town Councils and those in authority to show more energy in advertising their resorts at this period of the year. Now and through the charming spring months is the time to advertise the Welsh coast towns as health resorts. A poor season will be nothing less than a calamity to many householders, and the members of the Aberystwyth Town Council should not let another day elapse without making a special effort to bring the town before the notice of the people of England. A correspondent writes:—Gas consumers are increasing at Machynlleth. Since Mr Lane's ap- pointment to the Gas Works the charges have been appreciably redneed. They are still much too high. Is it a fact that there has been a great escape of gas from several of the street lamps for weeks past ? It is fair to state that the gas manager has no con- trol over the matter, because the street lamps are in the care of the Town Surveyor. If there is an escape of gas, as no doubt is the case, who has to pay for it ? Some of the street lights are sometimes allowed to burn all night, unless the police take pity upon the ratepayers and put them out. How is this ? Possibly the members of the Council are laid up with influenza and cannot pay the atten- tion they ought to these irregularities. By the death of the Rev J E Hill the church- people of Welshpool have lost a gentleman to whom they were devotedly attached. It was not alone the scholarly character of his sermons, nor his mere position as Vicar of Welshpool, but the unostenta- tious manner in which he carried out the duties of Vicar of Welshpool during 22 years, his unobtru- siveness, his patient work amongst the people of his town, the sick, the poor, and the needy, that endeared him to everybody. He did a great deal of work with very little show, and the work that he did lives after him. A goodly section of the people of Welshpool would like to know what has become of the stone for the breaking of which they had paid at the rate of 28 per ton. The resolution of the Highways Committee which appeared in the minutes at the last Council meeting expressed surprise that the stone so broken had been disposed of." An ex- pression of surprise will neither break another 60 or 80 tons nor put it on the roads where the Sur- veyor finds it is urgently needed. The affairs of the Berriew School are proceeding much more quietly than of yore. The trustees have of late had two meetings. The most important matter has been the refusal of the Charity Com- missioners to recognise the title of Mr R Williams, Newtown, and Mr Edward Davies, Felindre, to act as managers of the school. Their only claim was that they were trustees for Nonconformist property, but the Charity Commissioners have declined to recognise the mere trusteeship of property as con- stituting the ownership of a freehold. We quite expected that the Commissioners would so act, and thus close the way to what might lead to a system of abuses. Trustees could be multiplied with little difficulty were it expedient that they should be so for any particular purpose. # # W* Information reaches us to the effect that the dogs which wander through the streets of Oswestry by day and, in particular, those which wander by night, are an unmitigated nuisance. A corres- pondent thinks that licences in Oswestry should yield a handsome revenue, that is, of course, if all the dog owners take out a licence. At Ellesmere Rural Council on Tuesday the Rev H Moody brought foiward a timely proposition. It was that the Council should in future provide the Elementary Schools with the necessary dis- infectants in cases of infectious disease. It appears from the opinion of Ithe clerk that the Council is not empowered to sanction an expendi- ture for such a purpose, and no action could, there- fore, be taken in the matter. We believe, how- ever, that some Town Councils supply disinfectants gratis where they are likely to be of use in prevent- ing the spread of contagious diseases. The free use of disinfectants in schools should have a most beneficial result and would, apart from the question of health, benefit the school managers to whom a high attendance is a matter of no small considera- tion. Perhaps school managers will take the hint and provide the schools with a stock of disinfectants. The news of the abandonment of Spion Kop has caused much consternation in this country. It was believed that the possession of this hill, which is about 4,500 feet high would mean the division of the hostile forces. Sir Charles Warren captured it and now comes the news that he has abandoned it by night. Either be found the position not worth retaining or he could only retain it at great loss of life. For our part we believe the latter theory will be found to be the correct one. The enemy must have had the accurate range of the bill and that being the case they must have been able to inflict severe puuishment by heavy shell fire from the guns mounted on the neighbouring hills. This incident will probably have the effect of tem- porarily deferring the relief of Ladysmith. But it cannot be for long. ♦

YEOMANRY AND VOLUNTEER NOTES. The most electrifying name in the whole list of the Yeomanry Volunteers is that of Armstrong. At the supper on Thursday evening, when the Yeomanry were the guests of the inhabitants of Welshpool, the mere mention of the name of Armstrong brought cheers, applause, Ile's a jolly good fellow," or Your very good health," and other kind things, in the same category. Armstrong electrifies the men on parade and off parade, in the practice field and out of it. A similar electrifying effect produced by the same name comes back to memory. Two youths having been convicted of a petty theft, the presiding magistrate sympathetically broke to them the news that each would receive twelve strokes with the birch. This was bad enough, but when the magistrate added—"and the punishment will be inflicted by Sergeant Armstrong, there was a scene over which the curtain will be drawn. Not only, therefore, is there much in a name, but sometimes much that electrifies. It may or may not be known that the forcible character of genial Captain Armstrong in the training field, led one, a lady, to think of him and speak of him Its "compressed Lyddite." What greater compliment This love and respect by the men is extended to all the officers and shows, if it indeed were needed, the spirit of unanimity which prevails through- out the troop. At Thursday's memorable gathering every officer was cheered to the echo and those after proceedings when Captain Armstrong was carried shoulder high to the Royal Oak, and the other officers were seized bodily, willy-nilly, lifted shoulder high and carried round the Cross Pump at a time when the indicator of the clock was pointing in the direction of midnight was as interesting and even more demonstrative than the events of the gathering at the Town Hall. It is not definitely known when the men will leave Welshpool, but on Thursday evening Sir Watkin received a telegram asking how soon the men could be ready. Sir Watkin announced the receipt of this wire to the men at the supper, and for something like five minutes no progress could be made with the business of the evening. It was the best piece of news the men had had since they came to Welshpool, and to a man the troop is anxiously awaiting receipt of the order which will hasten their departure. For the benefit of the kindly disposed we may here state that about JE500 or zC600 would be a most welcome addition to the equipment fund. That amount is still required. There was great demand on Thursday evening for a speech from Sergeant Allen, M.P., bnt it failed to come and that gentleman's presence was not in the least conspicuous. He takes his promotion from a seat in the House of Commons to the position of a Sergeant in the Yeomanry with very little assumption, and as the men filed into the room Sergeant Allen sidled into a quiet corner amongst other Kharki fellows where he probably thought he would pass unobserved. The splendid send-off given to Mr Hugh Arthur and Mr Fred Harris from Machynlleth, last Saturday, to go off to the front, perhaps later on has had a very stimulating influence over many towards the Volunteers. No less than a dozen have signed on. These last recruits, no doubt, are of the right calibre, and it is hoped that others will follow their lead. The Volunteer reading room is a great boon to Machynlleth. The fellows thoroughly enjoy themselves every evening with the papers and games. The impromptu entertain- ments they have are exactly what is needed for the long, wet winter evenings in a place otherwise devoid of any resort for amusement. The Volun- teers are doing what the Mayor has as yet failed to do for the young men of the town. The Council some time ago passed a resolution to leave the matter of the town reading room in the hands of the Mayor to call a town meeting or take some other step. As usual nothing was done in the matter, and the whole thing was dropped. Colonel Pryce-Jones, M.P., the Commanding Officer, desires, on behalf of the Battalion, to thank the following ladies for their kind presents of mufflers. Balaclava helmets and worsted caps:— Mrs Pryce-Jones, Mrs Walker, Mrs A W Pryce- Jones, Mrs and Miss Humphreys, (Garthmyl Hall), Misses Jones, (Cefn Bryntalch), Miss Lewie Lewis, Mrs Hugh Lewis, Mrs Buckley Williams, Mrs Purchas, Mrs Gibson, Mrs Evan Humphreys, Mrs Swift, Mrs Willans, Mrs Wynne, (Peniarth), Mrs Evan Jones, Mrs and Misses Elwell, and Miss Parry, (Welshpool). Lady Pryce-Jones has also presented each man with a silver match box inscribed "South Africa, 1900," and Lady Joicey and Mrs Palmer sent cigarettes. The employees of Pryce Jones, Ltd., have presented those of their number (seven) who are going to the front with a silver flask. The Directors of Pryce Jones, Ltd., promise to keep the places open for those in their employ who have gone to the front, and have agreed to make adequate allowance to their families or anyone dependent upon them during their absence. One very useful present which each man has received is one of Aitchison's patent collapsible field-glasses, the price of which is three guineas. This will be of immense value to the men in South Africa. It has inscribed on it "5th V.B. S.W.B., South Africa, 1900," and a space left for the name of the recipient. The members of the 5th Volunteer Battalion, S.W.B., who had volunteered and are going to the front have been insured with the Prudential Assur- ance Company. On Monday Dr Palmer, assisted by Dr Wilson, examined the men on behalf of the Society and 23 policies were granted. Mr E Gregg, Newtown, superintendent, and Mr Evans, Welsh- pool, assistant superintendent, represented the Company, and Mr Gregg presented each man with a cigar on leaving the examining room. The Prudential officials have generously agreed that the amount of their commission on these policies shall go to the Battalion Fund. The policies will be placed with Col Piyce-Jones, M.P., Commanding Officer, in trust for the benefit of the families of the holders in case of death. A very favourable aspect of the policies is that they are drawn up in such a way as to enable the holders if they return home safely to carry on the insurance, and this seems to be appreciated by the men. It is worthy of note that over two months ago there were at the front nearly 10,000 Prudential policy holders, and over 100 claims have been paid since the war began. There was a great gathering on Monday evening when Abermule gave a great public send-off to Mr John Miller of the Court. Mr Miller was so well known as a football player,sportsman, churchworker and genial character that a demonstration on a large scale was inevitable when it was known that he had volunteered for service with the Yeomanry. The Chairman of the Llandyssil Parish Council, on behalf of a large number of admirers, presented Mr Miller with a purse containing 20gs, and wished him God speed and a safe return. Mr Miller's response was of the practical order. Abermule will have a vacant place until Mr Miller's return. I

ABERYSTWYTH. Messrs M H Davis. & Sons, Aberystwith, are now exhibiting at their London export office, 11, Qneen Victoria street, a bullet proof steel plate. It has been tested by Lee-Metford rifles, fired at the plate at a distance of only ten yards. It is perfectly bullet proof. The above firm can supply the steel in small pieces to be carried in pockets or made in plates which will be a perfect pro- tection for our troops in South Africa when charging the enemy in their trenches, or when out sniping at their forces, [Advt. TO-DAY'S TEAM.—The following players will re- present the Town in their match with the College to-day. Goal, W LI Davies; backs, C Parry andG Evans; half-backs, W Jones, J H Edwards, and D M Evans; forwards, Sparrow, Whelan, Marshall, Barson, and 0 James. MESSRS WHEATLEY AND SONS.— During the alterations which are to be carried out at Messrs Wheatley's Music Warehouse in Terrace road, the business of the firm will be carried on as usual at the old Assembly Rooms. Great reductions in the price of goods is announced. OBITUAKY.—The funeral took place on Wednes- day afternoon of the late Mr James Meredith, Enfield House, Brynymor Terrrce. Mr Meredith died on Sunday at the age of 58. The funeral was largely attended, and the members of the Foresters wore regalia, the deceased having been a member of the lodge for 33 years. LAUNDRY WORK.— Miss Pollie Morgan, daughter of Mr Richard Morgan, Great Darkgate street, has been successful in gaining a first class laundry diploma, with honours for practical work, at the N.T.S.C., Buckingham Palace-road, London. Last summer Miss Morgan gained a first class cookery diploma at the same institution and is a licentiate of the U.F.C.A. London. ACCIDENT.—A serious accident befell Mr S Green of Northgate street, and late of St. George's Hotel, Portland street, on Thursday, resulting in the fracture of some of his ribs. While proceeding to • go to bed on the night mentioned, without a light, he tripped over a bicycle that was in the passage and fell heavily on his left side on the stairs. He is progressing favourably. PRESENTATION.—At lloly Trinity Church on Sun- day evening after choir practice the Rev Prebendary Williams presented to Mr R R Sheraton a hand- some!}' bound revised edition of the Bible on the occasion of his leaving the town. Mr Sheraton had been a faithful member of the choir for 13 years. He is leaving the neighbourhood to take up his duties at Three Cocks Junction in Breconshire, where he has been promoted in the services of the Cambrian Railways Company. PETTY SESSIONS.—These Sessions were held on Wednesday before Messrs C M Williams, (Mayor), Thomas Griffiths and John Morgan.—Two hours' extension was granted Mrs Jones, Talbot Hotel, for Thursday night, the occasion being a railway men's dinner.—A summons against David Phillips, Terrace road, for neglecting to keep the trough and down pipes of his house in good condition, was adjourned for a week.-John Jenkins, Little Dark- gate street, and Henry Longley, Pier street, were fined Is. each and costs for similar offences.—For disobeying an order in bastardy, and refusing to pay S2 10s. arrears, William Jones, Union street, slate mason, was committed for one month's hard labour, the complainant being Elizabeth Jones, 15, Skinner street, labourer's wife. POLITICAL CLUBS.—At Friday evening's meeting of the members of the Conservative Club a paper was read by Mr Ilindley, South road, on Conscription." Mr R D Jones was voted to the chair. Mr Hindley, was opposed to conscription, being satisfied that the United Kingdom could rely upon her volunteer iorces, out tnese ought to be better equipped ana trained. The following members took part in the subsequent discussion :—Messrs J D Williams, D M Lewis, W LI Davies, E J Evans, Llew Jones, J Evans, J A Jones, and R D Evans. The usual votes of uhanks were passed at the close of the meeting.—The subject debated by the members of the Junior Radical Club on Friday evening; was- Should military training be compulsory ?" Mr Griffith Ellis, Great Darkgate street, presided. Mr J A Phillips opened in the affirmative, and was followed by Mr T B Hall, who took the opposite view. A lengthy debate ensued, in which the following members joined :—Messrs A LI Williams, James Rees, T G Jones, J Roberts, Ronald Gibson, S Hopkins, P B Loveday, Henry Hughes, T Stephens, and others. 11 A BETTING ACTION.—At a sitting of the Aber- ystwyth County Court, last year, Judge William Evans decided a case in which Benjamin Wemyss of the Fountain Inn, sued Donald Stuart for the recovery of z633, moneys received on horse racing account by the defendant for plaintiff. His Honour having decided the action in Wemyss's favour, defendant appealed and the case recently came on in the Divisional Court before Justices Grantham ani Channel. The defendant set up that it was a gaming transaction and that the plaintiff could not succeed. The County Court Judge held that the defendant had a sum of f,33 in hand, which he would have to pay over to plaintiff had he been satisfied as to his status and position. The Divi- sional Court upheld Judge Evans's decision. Mr Trevor Lloyd, instructed by Mr A J Hughes, ap- peared for the respondent, B Wemyss. SOCIAL EVENINGS. In connection with the Band of Hope a tea and entertainment were given in the English Wesleyau Church Schoolroom on Wednesday last. The following ladies presided at the tables :-Miss Morcom, Miss Metcalfe, Misses Northey, Misses Collins, Miss Owen (North-parade), Miss E Williams, and Miss Edith Wilkinson. In the evening, the Rev A Burgess presided over an entertainment. On Wednesday evening His Worship the Mayor (Council C M Williams) pre- sided over a soiree held in the New Market Hall, in connection with the Ystwvth Lodge of Good Templars. Tho following ladies presided at the tables :-MIS Hugh Hughes, Miss James, Miss L M Jones, Miss Cowley, Miss Morgan, Miss P Richards, assisted by Messrs 0 Jones, G A Jones, W Jenkins, J Rees, David Davies, J W Jones. An excellent programme of songs etc. was gone through. A social evening was held ou Wednesday last in the Englist Baptist Schoolroom in connection with the Young People's Christian Endeavour Society. The Rev T E Williams, B.A., presided. The fol- lowing was the programme Pianoforte solo, Mr De Lloyd song, Mr Bea Morgan violin solo, Miss Minnie Jones; song, Mr D T Davies; reading, Mr Ridge; song. Miss Daisy James; song, Miss Dalli- son. At the close, Mr J S Davies proposed a vote of thanks to all who had taken part and to those who presided over the tables. The accompanists were Miss May Jones and Miss Richards, Heart of Oak. The meeting terminated with the singing of the National Anthem. RAILWAY MENS' DINNER. This annual affair came off at the Talbot Hotel on Thursday evening. The chair was taken by Mr Vaughan Davies, M.P., who was supported by Mr A J Hughes (town clerk), and Mr Thomas (station- master). Amongst those present were Inspector Bacford, Mr Ellis (warehouseman), Mr R J Jenkins (chief goods clerk), Mr J Rees and Mr E J Evans (M & M offices), Mr Vanner (canvasser, Midland Railway, Bangor), Mr Roberts (booking clerk), Mr Rees, Mr Campbell, and Mr Edward Jones (drivers), Mr R D Jones (M & M works), Mr M Williams and Mr Alfred Hughes (goods clerks), Mr Griffiths (M & M Railway), Mr Tinkler ahd Mr C Jones (parcel clerks), Mr J Davies (driver, M & M Rail- way), Mr D C Owen (of Messrs Owen Bros), Mr Hindley (of Messrs Allsopp Ltd). In giving the toast of The Queen and the Rest of the Royal Family," the Chairman said that Her Majesty had lived to see the consolidation of the British Empire —consolidated by the blood of every class of men that claimed the right to live under the Union Jack (hear, hear). Their blood had been spilt on the wild hills of the Transvaal for a common cause and that was the united freedom of every man (cheers). He had also to ask them to drink the health of The Prince and Princess of Wales." The Prince of Wales had marked his high appreciation of the Welsh people by becoming Chancellor of the Welsh University-—(hear, hear)—and had joined with the Welshmen in carrying out what they all believed to be essential for the good of the country and that was education (hear, hear).—Song, "What did she know about railways ?" Mr Wall.-In giving the toast of The Army, xNavy, and Auxiliary Forces," the Chairman said he humbly submitted that no words in the English language could convey his admiration, and be felt quite sure their admira- tion, too, of the way the British soldiers had behaved during the last three months in the Transvaal (hear, hear). His devotion to duty, his courage in every circumstance, had been simply marvellous and wonderful to they who lived in the same country and to the world at large. In fact he felt that they must all feel proud to belong to the country that could produce such men. The way they bad followed their officers to almost certain death without any fear, and the way the officers had led the men were things that could not be out-classed in the past annals of the British Army (hear, hear). They could only hope, those of them who had to stop at home, that the war would come to an end with honour to their country and everlasting hononr to the army whose members had sacrificed their lives in a reckless manner (cheers). As far as the Generals were concerned some people had thought it right to thiow little stones at them. He could not conceive any- body so utterly contemptible as the man who stops at home and criticised the actions of those who were sacrificing their lives at the front. As far as the Navy was concerned they were told by other nations that they were going to create a navy. Let them create a navy, so far as he was concerned they would continue creating a navy. England had got the men and she had got the money. Those were two great things in defence of the country. Anybody who had seen a British man-o'- war and a foreign man-o'-war would have no need to feel anxious as to the result of any action between those two ships (hear, hear). The other part (,f the toast was that of the Auxiliary Forces. Their citizen soldiers had up to recent years been looked upon as members of a force maintained for amusement, at any rate they never thought that they would be called upon to see active service. They had seen during the last month how splendidly the Auxiliary Forces had answered to the call of the country, and it re- dounded to the credit of the citizen forces of I he country (hear, hear). He was glad to see tbat., his feeling was coming into the county of Cardigan (hear, hear). He was glad to think that tin in Aberystwyth and other towns in the count, d taken the matter up, and when the next di, er came off that they would have some one out of the town to respond for the auxiliary forces (hear, liear).-Song, "Shoulder to Shoulder," Mr Williams. -In giving The town and trade of Aberystwyth," Mr J Rees laid stress upon the value of having good railway connection, and in this respect he felt that Aberystwyth had much to be thankful for. They were also very much indebted to the members of the Town Council, and he might say that few towns possessed a Council which was so devoted to the work and interests of the town in which they resided. He coupled with the toast the name of Mr A J Hughes, town clerk.—In reply to the toast, Mr A J Hughes said that the town and trade of Aberystwyth was in a very comfortable position, indeed, in fact, he scarcely remembered the time when the trade looked and felt so prosperous as it was at present. The rateable value had gone up 50 per cent during the last ten vears, and the borrowing powers of the town were in a better position than any other town in the country (hear, hear). Important improvements were going to be carried out, and the town was going ahead.—Song, Mr J Rees.—The Chairman then gave the roast ot the Local Railway Companies." He could go back to the time when the coajh was the only con- veyance, and six horses were required to go up Penglais Hill, whilst eight or even nine were re- quired to take the coach over Radnor Forest, even then they would be caught in a snow drift and the coach left behind for as long as three weeks at a time. He had sat out three coachmen from Glou- cPt.ter to Aberystwyth, and then had to be lifted off the seat cold and petrified. He need hardly say how much those like him ap- preciated the modern wa • of travelling. Before he proceeded with the toast he wanted to say a word with reference to the good work done by Mr Denniss in getting a better postal service to the town. He could assure them that Mr Denniss gave him every support, and he worked very hard to accomplish the improvement in the service. That morning he had received a document from the House of Commons which was of interest to all of them. They remembered that last session Mr Ritchie brought in a Bill with reference to automatic couplings. Pressure was brought to bear upon Mr Balfour by the railway directors of the country, and Mr Ritchie did not bring the Bill in. He found that in 1898 542 men were killed on the railways and 12,979 injured. Goods guards and brakesmen lost 43 men and 711 injured, per- manent way men lost 122 killed and 204 were injured of shunters 47 were killed and 616 iniured. In 1895 there were 7,092 shunters, and of this number 26 were killed. In 1898 shunters had in- creased and numbered 9,244, and out of this number 47 were killed. This he regarded as a very large proportion as compared with the increase. The report of the Commission appointed stated that it appeared the railway companies had been on the look out to discover automatic couplings suitable to the railway systems of this country, but apparently without success. The first exhibition of automatic couplings took place at Darlington in 1882 and since that year the aver- age number of deaths on the railway was 30 per annum. In 1893 Congress in America passed an act that automatic couplings were to be attached annum. In 1893 Congress in America passed an act that automatic couplings were to be attached to all cars. In 1898 no less than 70 per cent. of the railways of America had adopted the automatic couplings. If America could do this in five yearp surely England could do so in 18 years (hear, hear). The Chairman then dealt at some length with the organisation of railway servants and urged that the men should organise their forces; if they did not do this they could not expect to do any real good work as opposed to the great strength of the railway directors. The power of the directors in the House of Com- mons was very strong and the railway men of the coantry were in need of greater unity. He found that out of 534,141 railway servants only 101,514 were memLers of Trades Union. Last year this number was reduced to 67,614. In Scotland there were none at all and in Ireland there were only 328. If the railway servants of the United Kingdom did not think it worth their while to look after themselves and join together they could not have a strong case to come before the country. He coupled with the toast the names of Mr Thomas, stationmaster, and Mr J Rees, M. and M. Railway.—Song, True till death," Mr John Davies, encored, and gave the The Village Black- smith"; song, Mr T Wilson.—Mr Thomas and Mr Rees then responded to the toast of the railways.- I' Song, Mr Armitape mouth organ solo, Mr Harries. —The health of the Host and Hostess was given by Mr A J Hughes, and responded to by Mr I, Jones.—Song, Mr C Jones.—Mr Ellis then pro- posed a vote of thanks to the Chairman for presid- ing over them that evening. He felt that a great honour had been conferred upon them by Mr Davies presiding over that meeting (hear, hear).— Song, The Queen's Navy," Mr Williams.—The Chairman responded.—Song, Mr Campbell.-Air J Rees proposed the health of Mr A J Hughes, which was cordially received.

SERIOUS CHARGE AGAINST A WOMAN AT ABERYSTWYTH. BEGGING ALMS BY MEANS OF A WAR FUND PETITION. At the Aberystwyth Police Station yesterday morning, Frances C Parker, widow, of Birkenhead, and of respectable appearance, was charged with begging for alms in the town by means of a petition. The magistrates present were Messrs C M Williams (Mayor), D C Roberts (ex-Mayor), and T Griffiths. —The first witness was Richard Edward Morgan, corn merchant, at Darkgate-street, who said that he recognised the prisoner as a woman who called at his shop on Thursday week. She said she was collecting for the widows and orphans and he gave her a shilling. He put his initials in the book.—J Edwards, Great Darkgate-street, stationer, said the prisoner called at his shop last week and said that she was collecting for the war fund and produced a book. He gave her one shilling and signed the book. He was not certain that he entered the money on the book. The book was handed to witness, but nothing was shown on it.- John Morris, draper, Princes-street, said that the prisoner called at his shop last week. She handed him a book and said that she was collecting for the war fund. He gave her 2s 6d and a'so signed the book. The book showed the amount paid.- Peter B Loveday, plumber, Queen Street, stated that prisoner came to their house that day week and told the same story. He gave her one shilling and entered it on the book handed to him by the prisoner.—Capt R Jones, Vaenor Street, said on Monday last the prisoner came to his house and asked for something to the war fund. She pro- duced a book similar to the one now shown. He asked her for her name, and she replied Miss Wil- liams.—Prisoner: No, I said I was collecting for Miss William s.-Witness I asked her where she came from when she mumbled something and went, away.—The Mayor: Any question to ask witness ? —Prisoner I said to witness for Miss Williauis.- Witness I did not understand you to say that.— P.C. Jones said about 11 15 a.m. on Thursday, from information received, he arrested the prisoner on Trefechan bridge, brought her to the Police Station, and chaiged her with going about with a begging petition. He cautioned her in the usual manner. She replied, I am collecting for the war fund," and produced this book from her pocket and said that she intended to send the money already col- lected up to London. Prisoner also said that as others were collecting, viz., Mrs Capt Lushingtou, she thought she could do the same, and further said tliftt she had written the heading on this book and the name of Mr Jones with 5s 6d opposite to it, and that she had received the same on the way to the railway station, but did not know who he was. The total amount collected as shown in the book was L3 Os 7d. That morning, in the presence of the prisoner, he opened her box and took out the monev which she. said she had collected. lie found £ 2 13s 6d in the box. Prisoner then said that if there was a deficiency she would make up the difference, and at the same time said Mrs Rice, opposite whose name was 6s, but it should be sixpence, having been placed in the wrong column.—The Chief Con- stable Are there any blanks opposite subscribers ? Yes.—Any money found on her ? Yes; lid.— Mr Edwards (clerk) Do you ask any question ?- Prisoner: 1 said 1 was going to send it up to the War Office.-Tiie Clerk Would you like to give evidence on oath ?—Prisoner Yes, I can tell them what I was going to do.—Prisoner was sworn and said that she did it with an honourable intention. It was not fraud at all. There was a lady at the station, and she was talking to her about the war, and she replied that she was collecting for the war fund. Prisoner said L wonder if I can do any- thing the lady replied It is very good of you. The Mayor: You said something about Miss Williams Y Yes, she was a young lady with whom 1 was accquainted, but the letter was returned.— The Chief Constable In what town did she live r I believe in Liverpool.—The Ex-Mayor How do you know that Miss Williams had anything to GO with the war fund ? She had a relative in the Militia.-The Clerk Have you any private means ? No, I was looking for a situation, and I thought to get money for the war fund.-The Clerk Can you give any reference as to your charac- ter? Yes, I can give Dr Feriell of Isle of Mau.—The Chief Constable When did you see him last ? Three years ago. I have a brother a sailor?—The Mayor What line? Prisoner: But you would not write to him it would damage The Ex-Mayor: But it cannot do any damage when a person is collecting honestly for a war fund.- Prisoner: My brother is in the Harrison Line and my mother who resides at Colwyn Bay. 1 will refund all the money.—The Mayor: It is stran-e that you should come to a strange place and collect. —Prisoner: But I did not think that 1 was a stranger. I lived at the Fox Vaults three years ago.—The Bench sentenced prisoner to 14 davs' hard labour, and ordered the money to be refunded to the subscribers. ♦

WELSHPOOL CORN, MONDAY.—Prices:—Wheat 12s 6d to 13s Od per 2401bs; barley, 15s Od to 63 Od per 280 lbs; oats, 12s 0dtol2s 6d per 2L Ios.

CORRIS. A FALL.-On Monday, Mr David Owen, Factory, fell a distance of twelve feet, injuring his head and arm. He is progressing favourably. FUNERAL.—On Monday the funeral took place of Miss Mary Rowlands, who died at Paddington, Lon- don. The coffin was brought by train to Dolgelley, thence by hearse. The Rev 0 E Williams, Pennal, officiated at the graveside. COMPETITIVE MEETING.—A very successful com- petitive meeting was held at the Board School on Monday evening, under the auspiOJS of the Corrip Temperance Association.

MONTGOMERY. THE LATE MRS STATHAM.—We regret to record the death of Mrs Jane Statham, wife of Mr Thos Statham, Arthnr street, which occurred on Thurs- day morning after a protracted illness. The deceased lady, who was in her 51st year, was the daughter of the late Mr David Evans of W' therton Hali, Chirbury. Her first husband was the late Mr John Burjner of Edderton. Forden, and Their son is Mr R H Bunner, ironmonger, Montgomery. Mr Statham and two sons, Messrs Rowland and Charles Statham also survive, and the greatest sympathy is felt with the bereaved family in their anaietion by the large circle of friends to whom Mrs Stratham's kinri and gentle disposition had made her endeared. The funeral takes place at Forden on Monday. AVAK FUND. A meeting of the subscribers to the Montgomery Borough War Fund, was held in the Town Hali on Thursday evening. The Mavor, Councillor E R James, presided, and there were also present Aldermen Fairles-Hnmphreys and Wm Jones, Councillors T H George, C P Davies, and A Vaughan, the Rector (Rev E W Brown). Rev C P Thomas, Messrs C S Pryce (town clerk), J M Jones, T Jones (Rhydyware), F R Kelly, J Berwick, R Turnbull, F Langford, A Eaton, J Eaton, A Beedle, M Davies, Dr Kirk, L Griffiths, T H Evans, J Weaver, J Powell, T Bnnner, etc. Letters were read from Col Pryce-Jones, M.P., the Rev J G Oats, and Mr J M Lloyd. A discussion took place as to the disposal of the amount collected, which the Town Clerk reported to be £1,)9, of which E127 had been paid to the Treasurer. It was decided to vote P,8 to Colonel Pryce-Jones'i Fund for the insurance and equipment of the the oth Volunteer Battalion South Wales Borderers who are going on active service. A Committee was appointed to consider the disposition of the fund amongst the various channels, aud to report to another meeting of the subscribers. The follow- ing is the committee The Mayor (Mr E R James), the ex-Mayor (Mr Fairies-Humphreys), the Rector (Rev E W Brown), the Rev J G Oats, Wesleyau Minister, Rev C P Thomas, Baptist Minister, Col Pryce-Jones. M.P., Messrs T H George. A Vaughan, C P Davies, F Langford, J Powell, J Berwick, and Thos Evans. TOWN COUNCIL.—THURSDAY. Present The Mayor (Mr E R James), Aldermen Fairies-Humphreys and W Jones, Councillors T H George, A Graham, C Davies, and A Vaughan, with the town clerk (Mr C S Pryce), and the assistant clerk (Mr J E Tomley). THE FORTHCOMING LECTURRS. A letter was received trom the C.C. of North Wales, Bangor, asking the Council to arrange for the first lecture of the series on Agriculture for Wednes- day, Feb. 14th, and the remaining three lectures to be given on the following Wednesdays.—The Council approved of these dates and appointed the Mayor to preside over the first lecture, Mr Shaker, Church- stoke, over the second, and Mr Fairies-Humphreys and Mr T H George over the remaining two. CLAIM FROM THE CAMBRIAN. A letter was received from Mr R Brayne, secre- tary to the Cambrian' Railways Company, with reference to the second instalment of the Mont- gomery general district rate for payment of which the Council were now applying. Although the assessment of the station and the wharves for the poor rate was now S160, the Council did not appear to have given effect to the division of this assess- ment for purposes of the general district rate into X90 (in full) for the station, and £70 (at one- fonrth) for the wharves and sidings in accordance with the rating of the valuer for the Assessment Committee. It appeared that owing to a clerical error the first instalment of the rate now in ques- tion was passed for payment on the full poor rate value of L60, the result being an over-payment of il 19s 4d, which they now claimed to deduct from the second instalment now passed for payment at £ 7 5s 6d.—On the motion of the Mayor, the matter was referred to the Town Clerk to look up the legal position of the Council in regard to the claim. TWO CENTURIES OLD. John Parnell, founder of the Empire Anti- quarian Society, Shepherd's Bush Green, London, wrote offering the Corporation for a nominal sum a map of the old London coach road to Montgomery. The map was now in his collection and was dated 1719. It began at the four shire stone in Glou- cestershire and thence went through Worcester and Ludlow to Montgomery.—It was decided to ask Mr Parnell to forward the map on approval. A COMPASSIONATE COUNCILLOR. Conncillor Graham brought before the Council the case of a paper boy in the employ of Messrs "Smith &- Sons. The lad, he said, came every day from Welshpool to Montgomery with a heavy load of papers which it was his duty to distribute amongst his customers. In his opinion and in the opinion of many others the boy was very much overworked, and he wished to know whether the Council could not do something to lighten his labours. He had spoken at Welshpool to Messrs Smith and Sons' representative who seemed very high and mighty" about it. Mr Vaughan said he had seen the boy come up with a very small load, but no doubt in war times there was a much greater demand for the papers. He thought it would be difficult for them as a Council to interfere in the matter. Their best plan if they wished to do anything would be to send particulars of the case to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.—The Mayor thought they should write privately to Messrs Smith and Sons asking them to take some action to put a stop to the boy being overworked.—Mr George understood that two boys had been coming up with the papers during the past week.—In the end Councillor Graham undertook to bring the matter to the notice of Messrs Smith and Sons, London. COUNTY POLICE COURT.—THURSDAY. Before Alderman Fairles-Humphrevs, the Mayor (Mr E R James), and Mr A G Montford. SCHOOL CASES.—At the instance of the School Attendance Officer the following persons, rone of whom appeared in Court, were charged with neglecting to send their children regularly to school Edward Williams, labourer, near Church- stoke, in respect of three children, Richard, Margaret, and George; fined 2s 6d in the case of Richard, which had been adjourned from a former sessions, and the other two charges adjourned for one month. George Matthews, Llandyssil, in re- spect of two chi.dren, Mary Jane (9) and George Henry (5) fined for the first named child 2s 6d, and the other case adjourned. klAI.NTE.NANCF.-William Thomas Jones, Reliev- ing Officer for the Worthen district of the Forden Union, appeared on behalf of the Guardians to ask for an order of 6d per week 'o be made on Samuel Johnson, employed in t I- Minsterley Lead Mines, towards the support of his father chargeable to the common fund to the extent of 2s 6d per week.—The Officer said Jobnson earned from 14s to 16s a week and in addition rented a small holding. He was married and had two children to support.—Order made for the amount asked for.

LLAN FAIR. GOOD TEMPLARY.-(-)ri Friday evening last the a,dult members of the Willard." Memorial Lodge were invitod to a supper which was kindly given by Lady Edward St Alaur at the Board School. After supper, games, &-c., were induiged in and a very pleasant evening was spent. A hearty vote of thanks to her ladyship for her generosity was proposed by Mr N.D. T Watkin, seconded bv Mr Edward Jones, Welshpool. Thanks were alBo given to the ladies who had rendered valuable help. In reply Lady Edward St Maur expressed the pleasure it gave her to be present at such a gathering, and promised the members that it should not be the first and last. ENTERTAINMENT.—A verv excellent entertain- ment was given by Sign;r Bosco and Son, on Thursday evening, at the National School, before ac appreciative audience. The Professor kept the audience in roars of laughter at his marvellously ciever and amusing performance. U NITED KINGDOM ALLIANCE TEMPERANCE ASSO- U NITED KINGDOM ALLIANCE TEMPERANCE ASSO- CIATION.—A meeting in connection with the above was held on Tuesdav evening, when a stirring address was given by MrR Williams (ApPleuydd). The chair was occupied bv the Rev T N Roberts, and there wt-rc also present the Rers E Griffiths and M J Jones, ach of whom delivered eloquent speeches. The Rev M J Jones proposed a hearty vote of thanks t", Mr Williams, which was seconded by Mr N D Watkin and heartily carried. A col- lection was made at the close towards the Llanfair Branch of the British Women's Temperance Society. THK LATE MRS LLOYD HUMPHREYS.—We record with regret the decease of Mrs Humphrevs of Cambrian iJouse, which took place on the 17th inst., after a very short illness. Mrs Humphreys was one of Llanfair's oldest inhabitants and was highly respected and belov,d. Her death will be a great loss to very many other than her relatives. 1 he funerai took plaoe°H Saturday last and was conducted by the Revs T N Roberts and Owen. pmhf.aVe CVere, exf]'iisite wreaths from members of the fami v t J dI1Q friends to whom the sincerest sympaUiy is extended.

SALTER AND ROWLANDS GENERAL PRINTERS, WELSHPOOL.