The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

CONTENTS OF INNER PAGES. PAGE 2. Aberystwyth Board of Guardians anJ Petty Sessions Aberdovev, Machynlleth, Llangnrig, Newtown, Oswestry, Llantvllin, Cofit Canol and Llanyblodwel news; Welsh Broach of Promise Suit. PAGE J. The War Meeting of Parliament; Welshpool Victoria Nursing Institute; Kerry arc! Llanymy- nech news; Welshpjol Horticultural Show Dis- banded. PAGE 6. Football Notes, Matches, Ac. Hunting Appoint- ments Oswestry Conservative Club; Cardigan- shire Conservative Association; The Tanat Side Harriers; Colonel Baden-Powell, of Edenoope Mainstone Caersws Board of Guardians joca. Patent University College of North Wales, Bangor. PAGE 7. V A New Btory: "The Crowning of Esther by Moriee Gerard Correspondence V\ rex ham uo- se Sales; The Badminton Tournament; I oor Ra.es in the Parish of Towyn Markets.

STAGGERING HUMANITY For every pro-Boer preacher throughout the land, for every ill-styled Free Church Council so satiated with political prejudice as to heed not the voice of their brethren in South Africa, who must know the cir- cumstances better than those at home, for the Silas Hockings and the Page Hopps, for every discontented Irishman, for the seething section of the Irish Parliamentary party, for the Welsh pro-Boor members, from the reckless Lloyd-George to our astute county member, for every editor whose imagination has run riot, for every man and every woman considering them- selves entitled to the appellation of Chris- tian, even for the shadier units of human nature who only in the catalogue, in the words of our great master of literature, go for men- for all these we provide a subject ect for a sermon, for a political address, for a a fireside chat, or a loading article. The text is to be found in the deaths column of the Standard published last Tuesday, and it as follows :— AteLACULAN.-()ti Christmas Day, shot in the Market Square, Harrisuiith, Orange Free State, South Africa,.for refusing to fight against his own countrymen, John MoLachlan, junior, age 30, eldest son of John McLacidau, of Wandsworth, and grandson of the lute John MoLachlan, of Lambeth." At the outset of this war President LT R KRTTGER is reported to have said that he intended to stagger humanity." This man, who prides himself on his religious virtuousness, who lavs to his soul the flattering unction that, he is one of the elect, who reads his Bible and pretends to hold direct communion with Ll the great Almighty, is thus fulfilling his promise to stagger humanity. On Christ- mas day, when the religious world joined together in singing the song of the angels —" Peace on earth and goodwill to men "— in the Market Square at Jrlarrismith John McLACHLAN, patriot, was foully murdered for refusing to shoot his countrymen. A more cold blooded act, a fouler murder, a more monstrous violation of all that passes for civilisation was never known. It may have had its parallel in modern times, but never in the annals of a nation claiming to be civilised. For similar outrages we must go to savagest of the savages, to the lowest grade of human animals on God's earth. It is easy to say that this bloody deed was not the deed of KRUOER, that his was not the finger which pulled the trigger and sent the Mauser bullet through the brain of our countryman, but ihe cannot escape a moral responsibility for the acts of his subordinates. This is not an isolated instance of a murder, it differs from the others only in being more premeditated, more cold blooded, but it ranks with those other murders, the white flag murders, the murders of our women and their babes who died as the result of Boer brutality in the railway trucks on their way out of the ¡ Transvaal—it ranks with all these in form- ing the figures on the escutcheons of the South African Republic and the Orange Free State. It is not necessary for us to remind our readers of how at the commencement of this campaign old men on the confines of the grave, and women on the verge of confinement, were huddled together in open trucks, treated worse than cattle, with the rain and hail beating down upon them, of how Boer soldiers, drunken and filthy, gloated over the sufferings of these poor creatures, laughed at their misery, spat in their faces, flashed the flame from Mauser i-ifies over their heads, flogged them with with the cruel sjambok, and murdered the men on the slightest pretext, of how they heeded not the sufferings and furnished no covering to protect from the beating rain the poor women who gave birth in those open trucks and lived but long enough to see the newly born babe gasp its last, then to die themselves in the greatest agonies which women can know—there is little need for us to remind our readers of these acti of a pro- fessedly Christian people acting at the dictation of a man who claims to rank with the saints. But we put these incidents in line with those of the white flag, of the murder of the soldier who resented the insult to las captured orlicer, of the violation of the red cross, the murder of good sisters and nurses who went out to tend the sick and wounded, of the treachery of the hostile forces, and lastly with the murder of JOHN MOLACHAX, and ask whether any person in his sane senses can still defend a nation of men guilty of such acts. We ask further how they can reconcile even with the lowest conception of; Christianity their rlofence of the Boers as compatible with the teachings of Christ and His Church. If incidents such as these fail to overcome political bias or affect their conception^ of Christianity, let them take that conception home and nurse it. For it is sickly indeed. We blush, too, that, as churning to repre- sent either the views of the people of this country or any phase of religious teaching, there should be found ant> .jom sides with these savages nnd affect Trig to believe that the progress of civinsauon or of Christianity will not be advanced as the result of this war. We are glad to thin*, however, that thev stand alone m a 111t 18 world of affectation of their own creation, and that this is not: the spirit v» .nc.i per- meates the great majority of the people and, thank heaven, of our army. We are proud that upon this country should lall the dnty of ending the rule of such tyrants, and hopeful when Ave think that at the eiose of this war, even though the rivers may run with blood in the attainment of that end, a different rule shall prevail in that land where the blood of our heroes shall have purchased the precious heritage of human freedom. We have the keenest sympathy with John McLachlan, senr., of Wands- Ii: (" t C' ? "0 sure he is proud when he recalls to mind how that sou died. And we are proud, how that sou died. And we are proud, justly proud, that there should be men amongst our nation whose training of their sons is such that they would rather forfeit, life than ignobly keep it. -+-

NOTES BY THB: WAY. The Directors of the Welshpool and Llanfair Raitway are about to issue letters of allotment and to convene the first meeting of shareholders, The response to the call has been very satisfactory, nearly all the shares having been taken up. Mr John Evans, Incorporated Accountant, W elshpool, has, we learn, been appointed secretary to the Company. If evidence of the good work accomplished by the Welshpool Nursing Institute were needed, it is to be found in the report of the annual meeting of the subscribers published on another page. If we bad before us only the fact that Nurse Crabbe, in the course of her work during the year, paid 2,8o9 visits to patients, this of itself would justify the maintenance of such an institution. Those 2,889 visits represent a vast amount of work among the poorer classes, over a very considerable area, and the work is appreciated to a very great degree by the many who benefit by services which they would otherwise be unable to command. The Institute is particularly fortunate in having a nurse who throws her whole heart in the work, and wo trust the public will see that this institution shall not lack financial support. Lust year the receipts wore £ 10 short of meeting the expenditure, but we trllft that the present year will show a marked improve- ment in this respect. Those who oannot contribute in money may be able to provide old linen, of which a great quantity is always required. A matter which is certain to afford much food for discussion is the suggestion that nn additional nurse should be engaged with a view to extending the work. This would mean an additional outlay of from £ 50;to zP,70 per year, and unless we are much mistaken, the question will be considered almost entirely from the point of view of finance. For our part we should not like to see such a step resolved upon until at least the greater part of this money is assured, for the reason that we believe the work of the Institute would be hampered if the committee were face to face with the financial difficulties. It is true that the fUllfls will be aug- mented by £ 50—perhaps more—from the Horti- cultural Society, but this can only occur once, and it would be unwise to act on the strength of this contribution. A way might be opened out by the Forden Guardians increasing their subscriptions when they become acquainted with the exteat of the work amongst the poor, but this would of itself be insufficient to warrant such a step boing taken. It has been suggested that collections should be takep at the Churches and Chapels, and again we must point out that- while there would be no lack ofsym- pathy, there would be difficulties in the way of this being carried out, for it is no secret that owing to the number of churches and chapels in the town, the collections on one day in the year could ill bo spared. *1 Welshpool has seen its last horticultural show, under the present conditions. As the Com- mittee could not hold the show on the particular date on which they desirei to bold it, and ^s they believed that to hold it on another day would mean to court disaster and to fritter away the balance in hand, they have agreed that the show shall be dis- continued. They have made this decision irrevo- cable by appropriation of the funds. The Com- i-nittee, anxious to know the feeling of the 260 subscribers on the matter, sent a circular to each but received only five replies with different sug- gestions as to what should be done with the balance. According to the decision of. the meeting on Tuesday afternoon JE50 will go to the Nursing Institute, 150 to tbp Dispensary, and £ 10 to a benevolent institution connected with the gar- deners. The Finance Committee are empowered to realise the assets but the meeting issued no direction as to how the remaining balance of C20 or JE30 is to be appropriated. As there seems to be a desire on the part of the Committee to wipe the slate perfectly clean, the balance will probably be devoted to the charities. Whatever may be the feeling among the subscribers as to the decision there is no doubt that the discontinuance of the show will be looked upon as a very great loss by the townspeople. It was the event of the year. V Despite all the controversy and the adverse criticism of Sir Wm Butler and the constructions put upon his silonoe, we have never believed that Sir Wm Butler was disloyal. What passed between him and the home authorities is not known, but we believe that whatever he knew concerning the state of things in South Africa, he told to the Govern- ment. We have it on the authority of a par- liamentary statement that Sir William was recalled because of a difference of views with Sir Alfred Milner as to the policy to be pursued in South African affairs. For our leaders to hold opposing views was to make a deadlock possible, and it was to remove this possibility that he returned. It was not for Sir William to open his mouth in reply to every cuckoo critic, it was not, consistent with the traditions of the army that ho should do so. At the most Sir William has been in- discreet, but that he has been disloyal we can never believe. It is the next thing to an impossibility that a General in the British Arwy can bo a traitor. An American paper with the somewhat peculiar title of The Twice-a-weeJc Detroit Free Press, has a lengthy article entitled The British Military Sys- tem is Bad." It states that Amazing ignorance is the principal possession of the Intelligence De- partment." This mode of expression reminds us of the enterprising reporter who wrote that a certain prisoner was the owner of an immense amount of baldness, which covered his head," and of an old lady who, having died in a arret, was found to be possessed of an accumulated store of poverty." There seems then to be hope for the man who owns nothing to be wealthy, if only he owns enough of it. This week we give the third article dealing with the question of the poor rate at Towyn. There is not much that calls for additional comment from U3. We hope our contributor has not got it into his head that the case of Towyn is an isolated in- stance of an apparent injustice; there are hundreds of similar instances, some more, some less aggra- vated, in England and Wales, and should Towyn protest against the present system of grouping parishes of Poor Law purposes with any degree of success, the hundreds of other piaces similarly sitna'ed would be so spurred on to action that the Local Government Board would have to sit day in consideration of fti, tiier applications and to engage a special staff of clerks to deal with th» correspondence. ioll- i" ,()I I r all fours with that oi Towyn was mado to the Local Government Board some years ago. but it was firmly refused. We suggest that, if tnere is a sufficiently strong feeling iu Towyn on this matter, application should be made to the Local Govern- ment Board for an inquiry to be held into the special circumstances of the case, and this little bit of business will produce more solid results, one way or the other, than six months of argument or newspaper debate. Our correspondent is very unwise to attempt to pose as an authority on the valuation or assessable value of Machynlleth, Towyn, or anywhere else. One would gather from his remarks that the Assessment Committee arM engaged in a conspiracy to take money out of Towyn pockets aud put it in the pockets of Macbyulleth. If the people of Towyn are not .satisfied with the services of the gentlemen whom thev themselves have chosen to represent them they must blame themselves alone for the time being and return different men at the next, election. Further, the fact that the Assess- ment Committee have not accepted the valuations of the overseers is evidence of nothing, but if an injustice has been done in this way to a large number of people they have a thoroug-hly legal way out of the difficulty. When our correspondent states the system adopted by the Board is to base its figures on the rent" he only justifies the action of the Board. What other basis would he prefer? What does he, or anyone else, consider a true basis, if not the rent? We must believe that every builder or house owner builds or owns houses from either philanthropic motives, or from business motives. If from business motives then the rent represents the annual value of the house, and on that value the assessment ia based. The size of houses is no guide as to their value; if it were there are hundreds of public-houses in the kingdom which would have been assessed at one- third or one-sixth the rent, and there are large farm houses which would pay more in rates than the small but heavily rented shops of London. The effect of which wourd be that tho owners of such shops could demand another C200 or zE300 per year as reiit, wiiile the owners of large farm houses would have to pay peopla to live in them. We are pleased rather than otherwise to learn that Sir Watkin lVilliaTns. Wynn treats his tenants hand- somely in the matter of rent. If it proves anything it proves that our oid nobility are not all boors, and we also think that a landowner's generosity towards the agricultural interest ought not to be made a pretext for other people or authorities en- deavouring to cripple this important industry. It is idle and absurd to discuss such matters as these without first obtaining a sound preliminary know- lege of the principles of rating. To state that if the assessable value of a parish is high the poor rate will be high in consequence" is utter rubbish. The exact opposite is the truth. If zClOOis required of a parish rated at X2,000, it will take a rate of one shilling in the zC. But if the parish increases in value to C4,000, the rate drops to sixpence. Therefore as assessable value increases the rate (poor or otherwise) necessary to produce a certain amount falls accordingly. # The proposal to call in a competent valuer is sound enough, but the proposal to attain the end in view by Looking on Pennal with Towyn is un- sound. If Towyn hopes to obtain a divorce from Machynlleth, let it not spoil its case by flirting with Pennal. To take on a parasite parish is an admission that the principle of the stronger and richer parishes helping the poorer ones is sound, aud thus the whole fabric of evidence which has been built up to show that it is unfair and wrong in principle that one parish should be liable to con- tribute to the support of the paupers of other parishes, is demolished by the very people who built up that fabric. Let us say that we should like to see Towyn in a happy position financially and every other way. We should like to see the rates low, patronage unlimited, town extended, people happy and contented, but we predict that any application to the Local Government Board on the lines suggested by our correspondent will meet with complete and total failure.

YEOMANUY AND VOLUNTEER NOTES. The service section of tho 5th S.W.B. will leave Brecon next Saturday. They are now putting- in five drills each day, including gymnastic exercises. The men ara well looked after and get bacon for breakfast, roast and boiled beef for dinner, and and potted lunch tongue and corned beef with Worcester sauce for tea. Now the men are going off to Africa it is to be hoped that the good people of Montgomeryshire will see that those who well dependent on them are not overlooked. MajDr Forbes has been appointed second in com- mand of the Welsh Battalion, which will cause his direct connection with the men stationed at New- town to cease. By a new regulation, Captain Fearnie and Lieut Cox have been ordered to return to their Militia Battalion, which is mobilising, so that the Newtown Company is now practically without officers. Capt Luxmore has failed to pass the medical examination and will not, therefore, accompany the men. The Welshpool contingent, B Co, of the Yeo- manry will probably leave us next Thursday. The only reason why their departure has been so long postponed is entirely owing to the difficulty of transport. The authorities were perfectly aware that oar Company was fully equipped and as effi- cient as any of the newly-formed squadrons, and they would gladly have sent them earlier to the front had the transports been available. We shall be sorry to lose them. The town has made them welcome, and they have appreciated the welcome. The hospitality has not been abused, and it is this which must be regarded as responsible for the very kindly inter3st the town has takan in the Yeomanry. But the otherwise happy week has been marred by a blow of unutterable sadness. When the news came that Capt Armstrong had been ordered to join Lord Roberts's staff, every man in the troop felt that he had lost something. This became known on Wednesday afternoon, and all the yeomen with whom we spoke had nothing to talk abor.fc but their loss. They were devotedly attached to Capt, Armstrong, they loved him as they would a best brother, his very presence assured and electrified them, thoy could conceive no one else as their leader, he was their hero, and they well nigh worshipped him. lie was a soldier and a man. lie was kindness itself and every man in the troop considered that there was something which he owed to Capt Armstrong, a something to bo wiped off the siate, a debt only to be repaid by lasting gratitude and fidelity. And those townspeople who had the good fortune to knojf him thought equally well of him. Here's to you, Armstrong. ■Jfc When the men recovered from the first effects of the sadness, they decided that the send-off should be worthy of the man. They heard he would return by the half-past nine train that night, and there was a crov-d "f yeomen waiting to give him welcome. But he failed to arrive until the early morning mail, when most were soundly sleeping hnd ma-HY heavily snoring. He left again by the afternoon trnin for London, and had he been Lord Roberts himself the send-off could not have been heartier. The men were brought up early from drill and assembled outside the Royal Oak. A large crowd of townspeople were gathered there and along the road to the station, and the band < f tho 4th S.W.B. took up a position at the head of the procession. They struck up with Au Revoir," I and every mar, from his heart wished that it only Au Revoir and not Good-bye. Following the band came a large com- pany of troopers under Sergt.-Major Tupper, and then ii carriage drawn by the rest of the troopers. Every man sought to have a pull at the shafts, ,iud those who could not do this pushed beliii,d or held on somewhere near the wheel. In the carriage were Sir Watkin, Capt Armstrong, Capt Dugdale, and another officer, and cheer after chet'r followed them to the station. The scene at the station was one which will be long remembered. It was one of indescribable enthusiasm. The men took their friend from the carriage, lifted his burly form shoulder high and carried him to thp. compartment. Cheers followed cheers, hands were shaken and above the dir. of good -vislies could bo heard the last words which he addressed to the men As I am not oou.irg with yon, I hope you will look after Wyiiu." Th.), there was more handshaking and as the train left the station the men gave volleys of cheers, the band played Auld Laung Syne" and "The giri 1 left behind me" and leaning from the compartment, until the train receded from view could be been the gallant captain waving his farewells. Then te men were marched hack to the Cross, encountering a herd of bmlocks on the way, one of which seemed to have a particular affection for the big drum. At the Cross the men were distnissed. It is interesting to note that Captain Armstrong did all in his power to ensure the early departure of the men, and that it was he who informed them of their probable speedy despatch for the front. The excebent training of the men hai put them in splendid trim. They have been drilled on foot and on horse, trained -In jumping, in field move- ments, in shooting, and in other way=<, even to bayonet exercises. They have attained a high standard of fitness nnd as their training will be continued on board ship and at the Cape there is little doubt that they willllgain be heard of. The good wishes of all the townspeople go with them, and we only hope that when the war is ever there may be a re-union, which will call to mind the festivities of Thursday week. We are not surprised to hear that the Reserve Section of the 5th Volunteer Battalion South Wales Borderers has been abandoned in consequence of ..lr\o .r. "¿'-=- kiio ISLnugeDL regulations. The line measure- ments of the chest require one inch more than those of the V olunteers, and this one inch has made all the difference, as, but for this cause alone, we can state on the best authority, the Reserve Section could have easily been found. It is sincerely hoped that the War Office Authorities may yet deem fit to relax this stringent regulation. We note that ar Company of over 100 men of the London Irish were this week reduced for this cause to one section. In the next place, owing to the Battalion being a small oae in point of nnmberi and barely of tnree years' standing it has been found difficult to fulfil the conditions of efficiency for the last two years and this has also knocked out many anxious to join. Again, the higher standard of height required for the line, the age requirements, and the necessity of being a marksman under the new conditions which stipulated that a man tnnst have been a first-class shot last year have also told on a certain number. Finally, 9 officers and about 130 non-commissioned officers and men volunteered for South Africa, and but for these various regula- tions they would have supplied more than a full Company.

WELSHPOOL. IF you want the best cakes and pastry, call at Wat- son's, 5, Hall street, where you will fiud all kinds of Swiss, continental, and fancv pastries. Wedding, birthday, and christening cakes, elaborately orna- mented, to order. [Advt. IF YOLT WANT a good reliable Bicycle at the cheap- est rate go to Thomas J. Evans, ironmonger, and ask for quotations. Old machines taken as part pay- ment. Ladies'and Gent's Bicycles for hire. [Advt. FOR a choice selection of fancy goods, tors, games, &c. (suitable for Xmas presents), also for all Kinds of tobacco, cigars, cigarettes, pipes, pouches, &c., call and inspect the stock at the Bazaar, Hall street. iAdvt. A USKFI'I. ARTICLE.—Humphrey Jones and Son are selling first-class Mincing Machines from 6s. -9, Hall street. [Advt. THE Welshpool Lodge of Freemasons last evening voted two guineas to the War Fund. It will be paid into the Borough Fund. SPECIAL SERVICES.— During the week special evangelistic services have been held at the Primi- tive Methodist Chapel, the meetings being con- ducted by the Pastor (the Rev A Smith) assisted by several of the laymen. ELECTION- or OFFICERS.—The United Lodge on Tuesday elected the following officers for the ensuing year:—Chief Templar, Mr J L Evans: Y.T., Miss Laev Watkin P.C.T., Mr A W Jones; Sec, Mr Alfred Jones; Chap, Mrs Challinor; Treas, Mr Thomas Hughe"; Financial Sec, Miss Sec, Mr Alfred Jones; Chap, Mrs Challinor; Treas, Mr Thomas Hughe"; Financial See, Miss Maggie Davies; Marshall, Mr Ravensc oft; Deputy, Miss Kate Macdonaid Guard, Mr Parker Thomas Sentinal, Mr Percy Davies; Assistant Sec, Mp-ster George Owen. DEATH.—Yesterday the funeral took place of Mrs Jane Humphreys, Berriew street, who died a few days ago at the ripo age of 72. The service at the house was conducted by the Rev D Morgan, pastor of the Welsh Independent Church, whilst the Rev D Jenkins officiated at the graveside. Amongst the mourners were the widower, Mr Thomas Humphreys, and his son, Mr William Humphreys (tailor). A large number of choice wreaths wera laid on the coffin, which was sup- plied by Mr J Prvce Jones. I.O.G.T.- At the Home of Welcome Lodge on Wednesday evening the election of officers for the ensuing quarter resulted as follows: C.T., Mr E Jones; V.T., Miss Theodore; Sec., Miss May Joseph; F.S., Miss A S Jones; Treas., Miss F Jones; Chap., Miss Jennie Jones: Mar., Mr Bert Jones; A.S., Miss Atkinson; Guard, Mr J Wood; Organist, Miss Gertie Gittins; P.C.T., Mr R Joseph S.J.T., Miss A Jones L.D., Mrs E Jones. The installation was performed by Mr F H Gregg, assisted by Mr Bishop, as Installing Marshall. Short addresses were afterwards given by the new I offi.eerE>. LANTERN LECTURE AT THE CHCKCII HOUSE.— A lantern lecture on South Africa was given in the Church House on Thursday evening by the Rev D G Davis (Vicar). The h cture was illustrated by means of the acetylene gas with yiews of South Africa, the lantern being manipulated by the Rev Merlin Davies and Mr Faulkner (Berriew street) There was a very fair attendance and the audience were treated to admirable descriptions of Cape Colony, Grigualand West, Orange Free State, the Transvaal, and Natal. Special reference was made by the lecturer to the geographical features of these districts, their products and in- dustries, amongst which, of course, diamond nuLing occupies the premier position. Towards the close pictures from life were thrown upon the screen of Cecil Rhodes, Sir Red vers Stiller, Sir George White, President Krnger, and other notabilities of the present campaign. Finally, vivid depictions of battle scenes, which created much enthusiasm, were shown. Last night, the lecture was repeated at the Belan, when there was again a large and attentive assembly. PROMOTION FOR MR A E IIARPFII.-We are pleased to announce that the son of the late past- master, Mr A E Harper, who for so many years has been a conspicuous figure in our post le:iv,-s to-day to take up a responsible position on the postal staff of St Aune's-ou-the-Sea, Lancxsaire. Mr Harper isit staunch Churchman and has always displayed a keen interest aud taken an active part in every social movement connected with St Mary s. He identified himself especially ll,e Class, to which, for n Imicrtt-ir neriod, ho acted as .'J"J secretary, and. wishing to show their appreciation of the able manner in which he discharged his duties, the members made a. presentation to Mr Harper on tiie occasion of his marriage. W aon a member of tho Montgomeryshire Yeomaniy, 1:1 which '"ovps he put in manv years of service, ue was known as a rider, a swordsman, and as one of t he best ali-roniui men in the troop. PLEASANT EVENING.—The annual social gather- jug in connection with St. Winifred s Church P-SH heid in llw Town Hall on Thursday even- g, when through the repeated generosity of Mr >> Y and ex-mayor of i, mi gomery, an attendance of about 40 partook (If, genial Fat her Havdn termed a a ratt:ing tea." was the caterer, alli Miss Du; ami Mrs O'-borit presided at the tables. Afterwa, u.s music and dancing were entered into with great spirit, the accompanist being Miss Reed who mani- pulated the piano in her usual style. Additional zest was added to the evening's enjoyment by the presence of Sergeant Major Tupper one of the popu- lar members of the] mpenal Yeomanry, who on enteiing the ro'un, was accorded a regular ovati.m. Arraved in his kharki uniform, he delighted t!>, ] company with two songs rendered iu his bluff ami hearty fashion, and al«o proved himself no meae ventriloquist. Mr Gillespie, Excise Officer, also contributed a rousing ballad. Towards the close, numbers of the general public, put in an appears tice and were heartily welcomed. The adherents of the Catholic Faith desire to place on record their gratitude to Mr Fairies-Humphreys, who, to again quote Father Haydn, is the best friend we have." THE ELEVENTH HTSSARS.—On TNESDAV evening, fit th" wei-kly nJPNing of the United L./dge (No. 41), Mr W I1 Hughes (Church-street'). wI;o fer some time had li.iej the post of .secretary, was presented with t hauusorneiy bound Bible and a pip" on he occasion of his leaving the town TO "ieie the 11: h 11 ussars, stationed at Canterbnrv. Tee ]>>>>se"raTh>r. who alluded in glowing terms to the capable manner in which Mr Hugiies had co;ducted the secretarial work of the Loage during his term of office. Ee concluded by wishing the yo,_Jg aspirant to military honours every success in what was, beyond all doubt, an honorable profession. Messrs A W Jones, Macdonald, and Alfred Jones also spoke, and afterwards Mr Hughes appropriately responded. PRIVATE JACK OWENS R FRRRR CAMP.—Private Jack Owens. Royal Wel«b Fusiliers, son of Mrs Owens, Mount Street, Welshpool, who is one of the five Poolonians at. the front, writing from Frere Camp, says: — e have had only one fight sitict, we came out here; we drove the Beers back from where they were staying, and we slept where they were camping. The Boers are a dirty filthy lot and it will not be long before we have the Union Jack flying at Pretoria. I have seen some Boer prisoners; they are a dirty lit of devils. The war will be some time before it. is over, and God know* I nug.Mt come back a cripple. I leave it in God's bands to deal as he thinks fit. Do not be down- hearted or iow-spirited. Remember, that I must fight for our Queen and country, and when the charge is sounded I shall try to do my best for the old homestead." The letter winds up with the words Down with Kruger." CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH ANNUAL MEETING.— The annna! meeting of the Congregational Church took place on Thursday. The proceedings com- menced about. 6 30 with tea served in the School- room under the supervision of Mrs R D Thomas. Afterwards the Pastor (Rev D B Evans) took the chair at. a meeting in the chapel when Mr R Powell, secretary, reed the annual statement of accounts which was accepted. Mr John Jones was appointed treasurer in place of Mr A W Jones, resigned. Mr H Thomson having delivered fin ad- dress on C) u ch Finance," the proceedings terminated with the customary votes of thanks. OBITUARY. On Monday evening, Mr John Humphreys, who had attained the advanced age of 76, died at his residence in Tan yard terrace. The deceased had been in railing health for some t.in:e but the immediate cause of his demise, which was somewhat unexpected, was a seizure. For 35 years of his life Mr Humphreys worked on the Coedydir.as Home Farm, first under the late Mr Fortune and latterly under Mr George Maequeen. He was vary well known to local agriculturists by whom he was esteemed as a practical man well versed in farming lore. Two sons and five daughters survive him. The funeral took place in the New Church at a quarter past two on Thursday afternoon, and was attended bv a large number of friends and sympathisers. The Rev D Jenkins, curate, officiated in the church and at the grave side. The principal mourners were Mr William Humphreys, Berriew street, and Mr John Humphreys, sons; Mr G M Parry, Church Bank, son-in-law; and Mr George Griffiths, nephew. The coffin, which was supplied by Mr Aaron Watkin, was covered with a profusion of beautiful wreaths sent from all quarters. BAPTIST CHAPFL.-The annual distribution of prizes to the scholars attending the Baptist Sun- day School took p!ace on Thursday evening in t,he Baptist Chapel. Mr B James presided, and gave an appropriate address. The programme was a very interesting one, and included solos by Mrs Challinor and Mr D Joseph, choruses hy the Scholars, conducted by Mr Howgon chorus by Mrs Roberts' Glass, an address to the scholars by Mr R Lewis, address to the teachers by Mr E Jones, superintendent; and an address to parents by the liev T Rowson, pastor. The prizes were then pre- sented by Mr Rowson to the following scholars:— Ethel Lewis, Irene Lewis, Evelyn Lewis, Minnie Faulkner, May Joseph, Hilda Faulkner, Jennie Joseph, Lilla Lewis, Doris Challinor, Georgina Faulkner, Gwennie James, Bessie Parry, Walter Hart. Emros Jr.mes, Dora Joseph, FIO»sie Bagnall, Nellie Joseph, Pryce Williams, Walter Williams, E'lward Davies, Lily Harris, Cissy Hughes, Nellie Hughes, Fiorrie Hughes, Amy Joseph, Ivy Pugh, Willie Hughes, Flossie Jones, Charlie Challinor, Bertie Hughes, Alee Pugh, Nellie Roberts, Willie Roberts, Madgie Roberts, Ethel Davies Harold Humphreys, Willie Humphreys, Wilfred Jones, Ernie Hughes, and Freddie Challinor. In addition to the ahoyp prizes, medals were presented to the first 14 scholars named for regular attendance, Minnie, Hilda, and Geoigina Faulkner receiving handsome silver medals, having attended every Sunday during the pau three years. A hearty vote of thanks to Mr James brought the proceedings to a cioss.

CASTLE CAEREINION. A Parish Council meeting was held on Wednes- day. Present Messrs J Hollowav (chairman), T W Davies, E E Jones, E Evans and T Owen, with II J Gittins, clerk. It was agreed that a Public Parish Meetiug should be called on Friday the 16th inst., to consider the best means to be taken in support of the Montgomeryshire South African War Fund. A letter was read from Mr J Evans in con- nection with the styles on Hydan Fawr. It was decided that a Deputation from the Council meet the Agent on the farm oil a date suitable to Mr Evans, also that Mr E E Jones, together with the Clerk should endeavour to obtain all available in- formation of the footpaths in that neighbourhood The County Rate Basis was found to correspond with Valuation List for the parish. PRESENTATION TO MR AND MRS TOLE. Yesterday evening week the inhabitants of the village of Castle Caereinion met in the new Schoo'- room to present Mr and Mrs H A Tole, who are shortly leaving for Welshpool, with a token of their esteem and regard. The chair was occupied by Mr John Hollowav, J.P., and there were also present amongst others the Rector (Rev Walter Erans), Mrs and Miss Evans, Miss Willis (Sylfaen), Mr and Mrs David Gitrins (Sylfaen), Mr, Mrs, Miss, and Master Jones (Penllsvyn), lrs Davies (Cefuey- Air and Mrs Hiirgins (Ivy Cottage), Mr and ln; Joseph Thomas, Mr and Irs Benbow, lrb and Mr T H Adams, Mr and Mrs Embertou (Gelli), the Misses tloiloway (Hnngwyn), Miss M Richards (Cyfronydd), Mr and Mrs Orion, Mr aId Mrs Richard Price (Dryball), Mr and Mrs Bebb (Gaer), Mrs Jones (Post Office), MrB and Miss Gittins (Golfa), Mr and Mrs Jones (Dolarddyn), Mr Ernest and Mr Arthur Willis (Sylfa"n), and Mr Sibley j (Llanfair).—The Rector, in handing to Mr Tule a purse of gold, collected amongst the paiishiouers, said he came there that evening with very unx-d feelings. On the one hand lie, with allthos«ii. the room, felt soriow at the loss they were about to sustain iu the departure of Mr and Mrs Toie. On the i other hand, they were g:ad that. they had receive such weli-inorite promotion. Speaking personally he had never had the slightest difference with Mr 1 ole, who had always carried out the wishes of the School Managers in the most loyal manner. One of Her Majestv's Inspectors of Schools had assured him (the hector) nor. long ago that Castle Caereinion School Wi-s the very best school in the whole of his district, which covered a considerable area includ- ing Newtown Board School (applause). He thought such high commendation from an Inspector spoke volumes for Mr Tole's ability as a schoolmaster (hear, hear). He wished Mr and Mrs T<>le ma' long years of uninterrupted happiness in their new j sphere (cheers). — The Chairman then read the address, which was beautifully printed aud framed. it was as follows :—" We, the undersigned, on behalf of the parishioners of Castle Caereinion, are desirous of expressing env great regret, that you are about to sever your con- nection wjth this parish. During the tine you have res hied iu this district, the manner in which the school has been conducted, and the interest tak811 in the welfare of Lb children committed u> your care, call for our warmest, gratitude and thanks. We are also deeply indebted to you for the errdial manner in which you have always bf-er. r, (1 v to assist in matters outside your school \,+, ,1"k. We earnest ly hope you may long be spared to enjoy the promotion so well deserved, and that happin health, and prosperity may attend you in your aew sphere of work.—JOHN HOLLWAY, J.P., Chairman. E Hon Sec., DAVID GIT TINS, Hon. Trc->is." — Mr Tole, in said he did not know whet In-r to feel jolly miserable or miserably jo: (iaughier). He thanked them most cordially fur the hearty way in which they had responded to the subscriptions for the purse which he arid 1r" Tole were that evening the proud possess .rs cf. Thoy bad spent 6 pleasant years ill Castle Cae- reinion and he could assure them that they wouh be well content if the ti-ne they spent in Welsh- pool proved as happy. After all they were no- going very far awav it. was only four ruihs to Pool (hear. bear).— Two of the girl scholars, Nellie Gittins and Amy Thomas, on behalf of their felbov purdli- h)'tided to Mrs Tole a v- rv nice laino • and a similar compliment was conveyed t" :h T.], iu the shape of au Ink Stand, cue presentation being made by Thomas L Jones and Richard Gittins—i.a Toie having suitably responded, a miscellaneous Toie having suitably responded, a miscellaneous programme was proceeded with, the roligs being accompanied on the piano by Miss Evans. (The Rectory). Those taking part, were Miss Jones, Mr Sibley, the Misses G and 0 Ho' way, Miss, Evans, the Chairman, Mr Richard Eva, md Mr James Prvce, (both of Welshpool). A special word of praise is due to the latter gentleman for his capital rendering of those first class songs For .<i liuies sake," au.1 "The bneeny MHM." Mr Prvce j »as a spVadid v.v-<> a- <, if. neT^.v.-r, a g »od j amateur actor; indeed, many a professional corned- i.m Would, if it came to use teM., have to admit his superiority. We can only hope that it will not- be iong before he has a wider fie-ei in which to his talents.—A vi-rv- evening terminated with ibe singing of the National Anthem.

TRKWEli'X. DEATH.—The death oi Mrs Minnie Pritchard, of 29, St Juliau's Friars, Shrewsbury, took place on Monday, at the early age of 29 years, after a very brief illness. Mrs Pritchard was the elde3t daugh- ter of Mr and Mrs Preece, Cottage, ana was only married about: wlHind-a-half years ago. The funeral took place at the General Cemetery. Shrewsbury, on Wednesday, aud was 1an!(.1) at. tended". Beautiful wreaths were sent bv the fol- lowing :— "With deep sympathy, from father, mother, brother s, and sisters," With deep sym- pathy from Mr and Mrs Pri-chard and family," With lovo from Uncle Jack, Aunt Kittv, and children," "Sincere sympathy from Air aud Mrs jut]. From Mr and Mrs Pye, with much sympathy," With de.-p-sr. sympathy, from the Shrewsbury butchers," "From AF and J 1h.ndielcl, with deep sympathy, Iu affectionate memory and deepest sympathy fr,.m P & N Morris (Farm)," From Mr and Pliillip-i with deepest sympathy." With deep symparLy from Mr and Alrs Price," "With deep sympathy from Mr and Mrs Bright," With deepest sympathy from Mr and Mrs M T Davies and family," From Ilr, Mrs and Miss Brown with de-ep i, Much sympathy is felt both herein Mrs Pritchard's native place and in Shrewsbury with Mr Pritchard and hi little daughter Fiorrie, in their sad bereavement. Those present were Mr H Prichard (husband), Mr A Preece (father), Mr Preece (mother), Messrs R, H. E, J, and D Preece (brothels), Misses A and L Preece (sisters), Mr Pritchard (father-in-law), Mrs Pritchard (mother-in-iaw), Misses Margrate and Martha Pritchard (sisters-in-law), Mr Walter Pritchard (brother-in-law), Mr J Morris and Mr J Humphreys (uncles), Mrs Morris and Mrs Hum- phreys (aunts), Mr LI Preece (Coedway), and Miss Whitely (cousins) and Mr Murray, and Mr Jones, of Butcher Row was the undertaker, and carried everything out in a very satisfactory manner. The coffin was of polished oak with brass furniture and bore the inscription, "Minnie Pritchard, died January 29, 1900, aged 29 years."

BYRWYDD. THE members of the Sunday School were treated on Thursday of last week to a splendid tea by Mrs Humphreys-Owen. The large number tuat- sat to tea is evidence that the Sunday School is in a very flourishing condition, and speaks well for the future of the Church. After the tea came a lively enter- tainment, which was thoroughly enjoyed. The programme which was long and varied consisted of choruses, songs, duets, and recitations. A vote of thanki to Mrs Humphreys-Owen was given at the close.

LLANIDLOES. RENT AUDIT.—The r-Tit audit of the Green estate was held at the Royal Oak on W--dnenday, wilen the rents were received \)\- Mr \V George. An excellent cliuuea was provided by :\1r" Hanier, the hostess. DISTRICT NUKSK ASSOCIATION.—The hir-d annual meetiug of the Llan.dloes.District A> eiation was held at the Public ilooms, on Thursday afternoon. The Ex-Mayor of Llanidloes, (Mr J Kiasey Jones,) occupied the chair. The Hun Secretary rend the annual report, which showed that during the past I year Nurse Roberts had paid 1146 visits and nursed 40 patients, while Nurse Gladwin bod made 1240 visits and nursed 30 patients. The subscriptions I showed an increase upon the previous year of £7. The report acknowledged a donation from the China Street Eisteddfod Committee, ari(i n parcel of goods from Mrs R Hanwr, National E mporium.— :Jlr Edmunds, commenting on the baian t.e sheet, said that the Association had L173 to commence another year. There ha a been an increase in the subscriptions but the fees had decreased. The Institution had also lost ths grant of £ 10 from the Queen's Institute.—The report was adopted, and votes of thanks were accorded the (lfficiais:-1r was also decided, on the suggestion of Mrs Edmunds, to approach the Town Council with a view of making a collection in aid of the Association on Mayor's Sunday iu the church aud chapels of the town. WORKING MEN'S INSTITUTE AND BR Y. A N N U A L M K F. T I N G The annual meeting of the > .nstituiioa was held on Wednesday evening. lr J H Williams, N and S. Wales Ban!: (pn s-dent) occupied the chair, and there wa-- a large and eutaubi&stio at.tendance of members.—The Chairman, in the oourse of an interesting address, said that during the past year they were pleased to be able to report an increase of £ 4 in the honorary and £7 i; the ordinarv inet-, (cheersb The tolls, less 19s, paid the rent of the premises, mnki au increase of £ 15, and besides reducing the previous overdraft by L10 they had expended a considerable sum in painting (loud cheers). In the coming vear the committee hoped to wipe the present debit balance off, and expend a small sum ia purchasing new books. Evervthit.g pointed to an equally successful year. The membership now exceeded 200, about 50 ahead of last year. They had been twitted t-everal times that- the Institute was a quasi-gents club, lie did not se <verv working man coald not be a real genr.lemic. (hear, heÐf). Anyone coming there wauid find it was SU. He had not seen anything going on that was ull- gentlemanly (applause). During the year they had been particularly fortunate, nearly 400 volumes having been added to the jibrary, chiefly by s. gentleman who is well known, but who only wished to be known as "a native." a working man (cheers). It Irs Lloyd-Yer..ey bad sent a large number of books, unci otie r con- tributors, whose kindness was eojeh appr.jed, were Misses Marsh, Mr Cot: antise'. the Yicar, Mr Hort-on (Messrs Smith's book*-tab), .Mr IJcbton, i and Mr D Rees. lie hoped the neor: -w v.- do all they possibly could for the Institute, aat. ex- horted all emp;overs of laboni to ;niiuce their servants to join. The snb.seriptiou was striae, and it was an institution that was better supported than any other, in fact it was trie great 4i Public- House of the town (laughter and cheers). They [ bad it on the authority of Mr Turner, the head- master of the County Schools, that the boys who attended the Institute were the best, essay "v.riters (applause).—Mr John Smout, J.P., j,, ,-erv wittv speach, said he was glad TO have the honour of being associated with the Working men's Institute since its formation. It had been failed a gentle- man's reading room. a, was perfect!v- correct, the "devi! tells the truth frequently (laa.riiter)! He wondered what were geteiemo-; (,nt had not taken the trouble to write to ask ^L >a.i laogiit-«>r). Every member of the Institution was ^utmosed to be a gentleman and their conduct would prove that they were (hear, hear). The Institute was now patronised by ladies. He had not tackled them yet, that would come later on, and then thev would double the membership. The more fau;: p-ople found the better they got on The Institute was now in a celebrated oid building, and was of inestimable va'ne to the town which could easily be seen bv the large number of members wbonucked there daily (cheers).—The Secretary (Mr H D Webb) read the statement of accounts which showed the total receipts amounted to £104, leaving a deficit of C6 on the expenditure. -On the motion of Mr J M Paimer the report was adopted, and it was decided to nave the balance sh --et printed and circulated amor.iSt the members. -The election of officers was theL orocseied with. ELECTION OF PRESIDENT Mr John Davies. solicitor, proposed that Mr J Smout be elected president for t t,e ensuing Tear. He had been connected with the Institute since its inception, and had stood by it through periods of depression and prosperity.—Tne Rev E 0 Jones (Vicar of Llanirboes) said be was sorry to come in- to conflict with Mr Davies, but I:e must beg to put another name before the meeting, and he knew he would have Mr Srnout's perfect goodwill in the matter. He believed it. was usual to change presi- dents every year (No, no). Ho.vever, whether it was right or not, he certainly thought they should re-elect the president of last year, and be had much pleasure in proposing the name of Mr Jas H Williams (applause). It was well merited. They had heard a good deal of the of the Insti- tutD during the past year a.d latter Lad of pmceding year. It wou,d be recognised and acknowledged that the increase in membership was entirely due to the activity of the present president who was then only an ordinary member of the Institute (cheers). His efforts were recognised, and they elected a com- paratively young man to the responsible position he now i-,el' He slackened none of fcts efforts. People from Wellington, Salop, LifiUgurig. and far off piaces do not send presents down to the Working Men's Institution, Llanidloes, unless it was brought before their notice. Mr Williams was not the man to talk about his work. He bad volun- teered his time and energy for this Institution and he thought they should insist upon his taking the presidency for another year, so as to give him an opportunity of consolidating wnat be had already done (applause). There was certainly not a more energetic man in Llanidloes. There had been attacks made upon the Institute, nominally levelled at the committee, notwithstanding the fact that the Institute had been doing such good work during the past 12 mouths—(shame)—and ,:&ving regard to what Mr Williams bad done for i,, these attacks should never have been made (hear, bear). Someone bad said the los'itute -a the P,ijlic House of the town. He was told that dav there were six public houses to let (lujg:,t -t). If such was the caw. unJ be believed it was quite irut this Institution had something to do .i- i,, i:. When he came to Llanidloes 5 or 7 years ago only some half- a dozen tradesmen, aud two or three mine t rs used to visit, the old room. Now he f.u!Jo working men, none the less gentlemen for that, making use of a valuab'e Institution (cheers). If they were able to get the working men of the town and up per classes to attend the Institute, as had be'-m tbe case during the past 12 they would be doing well by showing their appreciation and asking Mr Williams to again accept the presidancv (ap- plause). This was seconded by Mr Smout, and carried unanimously. ELECTION OF SECRETARIES A letter was read from Mr F W D .vies resigning his position of hon. sec., which he had held fcfr the last five years, on account of business engagements. -Mr Dulston in proposing the election of Mr H D Webb, spoke highlv of his past efforts, and men- tioned the fliot that his late father was the chief promoter of the Institution 30 years a go.—A hear- ty vote of thanks was accorded Mr F W Davies on the motion of Mr J Davies, L. and Proyintiai Bank. The election of officers resulted as follows:— President, Mr J H Williams, X. « S. Wales Bank (re-elected) vice-presidents, Colonel J Davies- Jenkins, Mr John Smout, J.P., Mr H Duistou, Mr John Davies, L. & P. Bank, Mr J M Palmer, Mr Daniel Higgs (re-ei(-cted), with the addition of Mr J Kinsey Jones and Mr D H Owen. C aiTjittee Mr J C Constantine, Miss Marshall. Mr E R H Turner, M.A., Miss Kinsey, Mr John Davies (High street), the Rev E 0 Jones, Mr L'.ewr-lvn Phillips, Mr Edward Chapman, Alderman Wiibatn Aston, Mr T Hart, Mr R Hamer, Mr D Alderson, Mr Arthur Davies and Mr David Rees. Ho:, treasurer, Mr Gwilym Edmunds, N. & S. Wales Bank. Hon. secretary (pro tern), Mr H D Webb. Assistant secretary, Mr E Walter Rees (L T) Bank), Auditors Messrs J Kinsey J anes and E D Davies (re-elected). NEWTOWN. M, oi, Ei T I A. -Ther(, waG ago d nnend .ice of mothers at the National School last evening on the occasion of the annual tea. A mutt enjoyable time was spent after the tables were e'eareu. FUNEKAL.—The funeral o: Mrs Cub,e, mother-in- law to Mr Bur.ford, grocer, Broad sa.-et, took iliace yesterday at the Cemetery. Mrs Came had been suffering from influenza, which resulted in an attack of bronchitis, from which death tojk place on Wednesday morning. The R'-v ». ;'arry, M.A., officiated a: the house and gr.vesbfe, and some very pretty wreaths and hixtos w ■ eeni by sympathising friends. Plvl'.SENTATION. — On y Mr bb'.eliyn S O iver was presented wbb an e'ebt- e.y Amer- lean timepiece on J1P occasio- < bin !-J;"ement rnHu the saperintendentship of the We?-:e\an Sun- day School. The meeting >K or- -e at the Wes- ]e\:&:1 Band room, and tl:" 1! v .1 b-des made the presentation. Messrs J Williams, G Sew. Arthur Swaen, and F T Jones (hoa is c to 'he it»i vein en t) also bpoke and bore testimony •» fe constien'ious man.ier in which Mr Oliver had fulfilled bis duties. Mr O,:Iver s:itabi 'r res,)ori(ioi aed mg'd ,i the teachers present to sunport the su v-rin'etidents. clock was supplied bv Mv H l).,vies- Newtown.

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