The Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Times

MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS. WELSHPOOL. The Mayor of Welshpool (Mr T. J. Evans) declared, on the stroke of nine o'clock last Tuesday night, the result of a historical municipal election, which has no parallel since the ancient and extensive borough was divided into wards twenty years ago. CASTLE WAKD. Edwin Stockton (Anti-Henfaesite). 153 David Rowlands (Progressive) ]00-53 LLANERCHYDOL WARD. F. E. Marston (Anti-Heafaestte). 152 E. Morgan Jones (Progressive) 122-30 GUILSTIELD WARD. W. A. Rogers (Anti-Henfaesite) 179 A. J. Giles (Progressive) 138-41 The borough re-elected three retiring councillors, And the majority of the electors in these three wards have just those representatives that they deserve to have. Territorial influence and wealth was exercised on behalf of the Anti-Henfaesite candidate: by eager supporters. The Progressives were handi- capped by lack of conveyances, whereas their opponents whisked in voters by means of no fewer than six mtor-cars-includi-ag that of Mr Forrester Addie, Lord Powis' estate agent- together with a plentiful supply of horse convey- ances. A low four-wheeler from the Powis Castle stables was much in evidence, and Council- lor Richard Jenkins, master of the stables, took the reins in his own hands to bring voters to and from the Town Hall. One of the pathetic figures thus brought out into biting November weather was Mr Thomas Williams, a veteran waiter from Mount-street, now a confirmed invalid. With Councillor Jenkins as coachmaa and Mr Herbert Richards seated as a footman on the dickey," the old gentleman received as much attention as though he owned the four wheeler, Mr John Pugh, the retired schoolmaster of Pool Quay, was allowed to enter the Council unop- posed for the Buttiogton ward with an open mind. But in the other three wards a clear issue was placed before the electors-to buy or not to buy 25 acres of land in the Henfaes for immediate refuse disposal and to have land (at a reasonable price) ready in case the Local Government Board compels the Corporation to cease polluting the Severn with sewage. Incidentally the industrial development cf Welshpool was bound up with this scheme. On the other hand the anti- Henfaesites stood for a policy of paying rent to a tenant of the Earl of Powis for permission to tip the town refuse in such a manner as to improve Lord Powis' property. 0 0 A Welshpool workingman was taking a very active part on the election day about the Town Hall advocating the claims of the Progressive candidates. One of the Retrograde Party ap- proached him with the friendly warning," You're doing yourself a lot of harm Can't I work for whom I like ? was his reply. A short time afterwards another of the Retrograde Party approached him and told him he was working against the interest of Powis Castle. "I didn't know I was," replied the free and independent workingman. Oh yes, you are!" came the assurance. "Oh!" came the comment, Now I'm beginning to see through some things < < < Another elector was told by another of the Retro- grade Party-" By going on with the Henfaes scheme you are trying to prevent the develop- ment of Powis Castle estate." Polling for the Castle and Llanerchydol wards took place in the Judge's Retiring Room and the Council Chamber respectively, whilst the Guile- field voters went into the Corn Exchange. Not since 1903 has there been another municipal election in Welshpool with three contests at the same time. One has to go back another ten years to 1893 before getting another euch record, and only in one other ye-ir has there been such extensive electioneering. That was in 1891, the first con tee ts after the borough was divided into four wards. But a comparison of the following election figures will show that last Tuesday's struggle inspired a much greater amount of energy than any of the previous triple contests. Except in the minds of a tew discontented Liberals, politics were banned. And the magnitude of the poll was largely due to the fact that active Tories worked harder against their politic il brethren than they had done at the last General Election against the Liberal candidate for the Montgomery Boroughs. 1891. Castle. Guilsfield. E, Langfcrd Jones. 109 J. H. Anderson 152 Lt.-Col. Huddleston 69 Pryce Barrett 112 Buttington. C. Galloway ]54 C. T. Pugh 90 1893 Castle. Llanerchydol. R. P. Jones (Park) 102 Robert Jones 137 E. Davies 80 T. S. Pryce 114 Buttington. Aaron Watkin 136 J. Cowan 60 1903. Castle (two seats). Llanerchydol. G-. Macqueen 196 E. Wyke 135 G. Vigeon 169 W. B. Watson 110 E. C. Bishop. 39 Guilsfield. D. Jones 190 G. H. Holt x 50 m A comparison of these figures shows that a record total poll was made last Tuesday, though the population of the borough has decreased con- siderably within the last twenty years. From the historical point of view, perhaps, the most noteworthy fact was the discovery of a hundred voters in the Castle Ward, who, despite all territorial influence, stood free and independent," anxious for municipal progress. The following statistical comparison indicates the activity with which the voters in this ward were driven or motored to the poll: 1904. 1910. E. Stockton 102 E. Stockton 153 Hugh Williams 85 D. Rowlands 100 Mr Giles surprised even many of his own sup- porters by the vigorous attack he made upon the stronghold of Mr W. A. Rogers, an old resident, tradesman, and property owner in the Guilsfield Ward. It is interesting to note that he polled 20 more than Mr J. Pryce Jones, who contested this ward unsuccessfully in 1895. During this last election, it is no exaggeration to say, that the most interesting figure in the Llanerchydol Ward contest was Councillor J. Pryce Jones. While bo was Mayor five or six years ago, he advocated the Henfaes scheme with might and main, and, when it was resurrected during the Mayoralty of Dr Thomas, he again remained on the Progressive side. But during this election Something Happened. Mr Pryce Jones attended a preliminary meeting of the Henfaes Campaign Committee, and even tendered advice for carrying on the Progressive fight. But lo and behold his name appeared as assentor to the nomination of the anti-Henfats candidate in the Castle Ward. And he convassed vigorously for Dr Marston against Mr Morgan Jones, the Progressive candidate for the Llanerchydol Ward. As a proprietor of cottages and collector of rents Mr Pryce Jones was in close touch with this ward. And he may claim credit (or discredit) for having influenced a dozen or twenty votes, which would i-ave made a difference in the representation of the ward. The chief joke of the election-day centred around Mr Pryce Jones' right-about-turn. Early in the morning a townsman, passing the Coffee House establishment in Broad-street, was arrested by a startling sight. To the railings in front of the house was tied a board containing election advice printed in blue and red colours—"Wake up. Welsh pool Vote for the Progressive candi- dates—Giles, Morgan Jones, Rowlands Has Pryce Jones turned again ? exclaimed the bystander. A few minutes later Dr Marston went down from the Town Hall as far as the establishment of his influential supporter tù see if these things were so. But it was a practical joke. Some wag bad attached the Progressive placard to the railings without permission. Shortly afterwards Mr Pryce Jones appeared at the door, got & knife, and out the string. And the boards and placards disappeared: r Polling went on slowly during the day. At 5 p m. only 125 out of 311 electors in the Castle Ward had voted; 111 out of 359 in Llanershydol Ward; and 146 out of 425 in the Guilsfield Ward. After six o'clock business became brisker. By seven o'clock some people's temperatures were rising at the foot of the Town Hall staircase, as they implored voters t") Remember the Doctor! Vote for Stockton But, when a working man retaliated with a war-cry of "Remember the Hnfaes there was soma scowling. And one man at least even lost his temper. The workmen of the Standard Quarry marched down in a crowd from their work to the Llanerchydol polling station, accompanied by Mr William Baker, one of the Quarry directors, and Mr John Davies, foreman. A ♦ W W At a public house in the town one of the whole- sale orders given was for 14 pints and three whiskeys." Workmen on the Powis Castle estate were allowed a half-holiday oc the strength of the election. Like a judicious official. the Town Clerk of Welsb pool (Mr C. Pryce Yearsley) never takes sides during a municipal election. But the same compliment cannot be paid to everyone of the public officials in Powysland. Heard near the Town Hall, where a humble countrywoman was descending from a splendidly- equipped motor-car. Welsh pool Conservative-Churchman Yes. That's very nice. But—will the motor-car fetch her to-morrow ? An outer district man was going up street, car- rying a gigantic bottle: What's thee got there? inquired a waggish acquaintance. Vinegar for the Missus," came the ready reply to the doubting inquirer. After the declaration of the poll there was srme cheering aud shouting for a few seconds outside the Town Hall. But no town enthusiasm. One of the anti-Progressives dashed through the crowd, exclaiming, Where's your Henfaes now? Where's your Henfaes now?" He got his reply from a working man—" You bought it to-day When Mr W. A. Rogers made his appearance from the Town Hall som-i admirers with more enthusiasm than discretion, wanted to chair the old man shou'der high. But a guard of honour escorted the veteran down as far as Mr Galloway's vaults, the headquarters of the anti-Henfaesite leaders. The other ouncillors fouud their way down to the Royal Oak Hotel, where an expect- ant crowd a vttited on the Square for speeches. The poll had been declared at ore minute to nine. But it was half-past nine before a triumphant little party appeared at the first floor window, where the most conspicuous figure was not any of the successful candidates but Councillor Richard Jenkins. Dr Marston, however, spoke first, and said Ladies and Gentlemen, (hear, hear), it is very good of you indeed to return me as the repre- sentative of Llanerchydol ward (hear, hear and cheers). I don't think, I hardly deserved it (A Voice: Yes, you did !—Cries of No, no! ") But as an old inhabitant of the town I have lived amongst you for over 20 years, and I shall continue to tike an interest in you A Woman in the crowd: Marston for ever! Dr Marston And the only reason I am against the Henfaes scheme is not the buying of the property, but the going in for this enormous sewage scheme, which you don't want. I am sorry my co-representative of the Guilsfield waid is tired out and gone home (laughter). But Mr Stockton here, whom you have kindly put in for the Castle ward, will thank you. I can assure you in the name of Mr Rogers and Mr Stockton and myself that we will still continue to try to do good work for Welshpool as we have endeavoured in the past (hear, hear, cheers and dissent.—A Voice: In the pub!) Mr Edwin Stockton then leaned out of the window, and with some difficulty said: Thank you for the kindness you have shown me. And we are going to do our best for the town and ratepayers. And —I think you have done a good thing in returning us, and save the rates ot the towt, (uproar). Mr William Baker (in the crowd): Go)d old Ed win! Then Councillor Rd. Jenkins leaned forward, bare-headed, and waved his hat to try and quell the tumult of cheering, and whistling, and laugh- ing. At last he managed to say I thank you one and all for the great victory (cheer?). You, the working men and working women A Voice: Put your hat on Mr Jenkins: Of Welshpool have to-day shown the Press that you will not be dictated to by Mr William Baker Hear, hear Mr Jenkins: By the Press, however able Mr Baker: Hear, hear, old Boy Mr Jenkins: However able their writers are. You are men and women of common-sense. Com- mon-sense has prevailed. I thank you on behalf of Mr Rogers, the Grand Old Financer of Welsh- pool, who has stood by you, and fought your battles in the Council Chamber against the Ex- pensive Party, the Extravagant Party, the Party who wants to lead Mr William Baker Good old Boy Mr Jenkins: Tu lend you into a rate of 4=! or 5s in the £ I thank you on behalt of Mr W. A. Rogers, who is absent and I wish one and all Good Night," and "Good Health To-morrow to all of you (cheers and laughter). Mr William Baker: That's done very nicelv V Mr William Riddell (also ia the crowd) Very good! Five minutes later Councillor William Rogers was to be seen going down Broad-street, and ac- companied by his nephew (Mr 3. C. Rogers) wended his way along Salop-road homewards. A few minutes later a jovial Anti-Henfaesite party quitted the Royal Oak Hotel and wended its way towards Mr GallowMy's vaults. Thus ended the Welshpool Municipal Election of 1910. < < What Councillor Richard Jenkins described as "a great victory" resolves itself into this: 360 votes for the Henfaes, 484 against. In a land flowing with free beer and whiskey, the un- scrupulous lies of canvassers in the country dis- trict kept the reactionary party in a majority of 4 to 3. The Progressives have no cause to feel disheartened by this defeat. If hell is worse than this I should not like to go there." It was a Welshpool minister who said this on the election night. The attention had been attracted by the orgies of drinking that went on in one licensed house to celebrate the great victory." And the saddest sight was the fact that women, as well as men, drank there. Little wonder that even the landlord's wife was moved to protest. Townsman I hear they've got funeral cards out over killing the Henfaes." Townswoman Well, I am surprised. I should have thought they spent all the money in drow:i- ing it. ° Heard at the railway station the morning after the poll: Welehpool Working-man (with bitter irony) Yes; I'm going dowu to South Wales! When Welshpool "wakes up." let me know, and I'll come back The workingman isn't worth bother- ing about after the way he sold himself yesterday. They don't want work and higher wages in Welsh- pool! Progressive Never mind. The most important thing after all to you and to me is not whether the townspeople buy the Henfaes or go on a few more years paying rent for Powysland. But did we. and did all the anti-Henfaesiteg, fight the election without any selfish motive, without any axe to grind ? Our own consciences, and their own consciences, alone can tell.

THE BAPTIST OLD ASSOCIATION The autumnal meetings of the Montgomery and Radnor Baptist Association were held at Mont- gomery on Wednesday and Thursday, October 26th and 27th. At the first meeting Rev. W. G. Mansfield, Velindre, was the preacher. The weather was favourable, and a fair number of ministers and delegates assembled in the Baptist Chapel for the morning conference on Thursday. The President (Rev. G. P. Edwards, of Gladestry,) was welcomed to the chair, and congratulated on his recent marriage. He was supported by Rev. W. Williams, Knighton, secretary; Mr J. Kinsey, Presteign, treasurer; Rev. T. E. Williams, New- town and H. Rollason, Montgomery. There were also present: Revs. L. Coombs, Mochdre; B. T. Davies, Llanidloes; W. A. Davies, New Wells; E. H. Dight, Maesyrhelem; C. H. Doughty, Welshpool; H. C Edward?, Newbridge-on-Wye; W. E. Harries, Bwlchysarnau; J. LI. Hopkins, Stavlittle; 1I. J. Jenkins, Gravel; James Jones, B.Sc, Llandrindod; Watkin Jones, Presteign; W. G. Mansfield, Velindre John Pugh, Nantgwyn; J. Lloyd Thomas, Newchapel Owen Thomas, Dolau; and J. G. Williams, Llanfair. The dele- gates included Messrs J. Rees, J. Marpole, and T. Williams, Montgomery; Samuel Ellis, Llanfair; S. Williams, Welshpool; C. E. Pryce, W. Wil- liams, and D. Lloyd, Llanidloes John Andrew, D. Lewis, and Mrs J. H. Humphreys, Newtown; Miss Davies, and Mr T. Evans, Newbridge; Messrs E Wilson and T. Humphreys, Caersws; Edward Jones, Kerry; George Davies, Rhayader; Miss Griffiths. Veliudre; Mr R. Evans, and Miss Evans, Rhydfelin. The ex-President's address, whteh evoked so much comment last June, was considered and I adopted as the circular letter to the churches. Rev. J. D Hamer, Kerry, was re-elected temper- ance secretary tor Montgomeryshire, and Mr Samuel Ellis re-elected treasurer. Rev J. P. Griffiths, B. A., Painscastle, the tem- perance secretary for Radnorshire, was not pre- sent, but he sent a report, which stated that Rev. James Jones, B.Sc., had conducted temperance meetings at Newbridge, Rock. and Howey; Rev. Owen Thomas, at Llandrindod, Cefnpole, Bwlohy- sarnao, and Rhayader; Rev. A. Leitch, at Even- jobb, Bieddfa, and Presteign sixty-one total ab- stinence pledges were taken Rev. B. W. Roberts had visited Nautgwyn and Dolau, but his report had not come to hand. Mr Griffiths, who has been secretary for two years, sent in his resignation. A vote of thanks for services rendered was accorded him, and Rev. E. H. Dight elected to fill the vacancy. Mr George Davies, temperance treasurer for Radnorshire, gave a satisfact )ry report, and was re-elected. The temperance com- mittees for both counties were re-elected. A letter was read from Rev. Hugh Jones, Llan- elly, the temperance secretary of the Welsh Bap- tist Union, offering on behalf of himself and the Chairman (Rev. J, R. Evans, Llwynhendy), to attend two conferences in the county with the object of advancing temperance work. A resolution was passed urging the Education Authority to adopt the Government's temperance syllabus for use in the elementary schools of both counties. Rttv. T. E. Williams asked the conference to approve Mr David Davies, M. P., scheme for cem- memorating the late King by means of sanatori- ums for the cure of consumption. This was sup- ported by Revs. W. G. Mansfield and James Jones, B Sc. The thanks of the visitors to the church and pastor at Montgomery was voiced by Rev. W. Williams, seconded by Rev. T. E. Williams, and the President closed the session with prayer. Next, an eager adjournment was made to the schoolroom, where luncheon was served by the ladies of the church. The 'Baptist Visitor' committees, and the Home Missions committees met in the interval, and the visitors who had no committees to serve climbed the Castle hill, explored the churchyard, or visited other places of historic interest in the county town. The next meeting began at three o'clock. Rev. John Pugh conducted the devotional part, and the preachers were Revs. E. H. Digbt and W. E. Harris. A pleasant hour was spent with tea and talk, and the day closed with an eloquent sermon from Rev. T. E. Williams.

Income-Tax. Our readers who are now receiving the ever unwelcome blue notices of charge to income tax for the current year, 1910-11, should give the same their immediate attention, and if after careful examination, they come to the conclusion that their assessment is excessive, they must lose no time in giving notice of their desire to appeal. The notice should be given within ten day, as in many districts Commissioners will not admit appeals unless notice is Kiven within that time. It is the more important to appeal now, as if the present opportunity is allowed to pass, it will be no use grumbling when the time comes for pay- ment of tho tax charged. There is no longer a right of appeal at the end of the year if the average profits should prove to be less than the amonnt of the assessment. It is necessary to furnish accounts in support of the appeal, and these accounts must be prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Inland Reveaua Authorities. If only a correct cash account is kept there should be no difficulty in getting the assessment fixed at a fair amount. Many people whose incomes are derived from rents, interest, dividends, annuities, etc., whether paid .t free of income-tax or not, are now entitled to make a claim for the repayment of tax over- paid for the three years to April 5th last, as also in respect of life assurance premiums and bank interest.

EDUCATIONAL PROBLEM AT WELSHPOOL. The Closing of a Private School. "Some Little Objections to Attending the Elementary Schools I A curicus educational problem is now occupying the attention of the Welshpool Cuunty School Governors, and their decision will have more than local interest and importance. Recently » private school in the town was closed owing to the proprietors having emigrated to New Zealand. There is also in existence a well-known Grammar School, of which Mr T. Hiles is headmaster. Moreover, there are four primary day-schools in the town, two for infants, one for boys, and one for girls. And then there is the County School for boys and girJs. At the County School Governors' meeting last Wednesday the Chairman (Mr W. Forrester Addie) said that Miss Bingham, M.A., the headmistress, had written him a length report, which contained a good many points in connection with the pro- posal to establish a preparatory class in connection with the school. "I think it is a very important matter," com- mented the Chairman. One of the private schools in the town has been closed, and the result has been that a considerable number of girls have not been able to continue at this school. I think they have, perhaps, some little objections to attendirg the elementary school?. And therefore Miss Bingham suggests that they should be taken into the County School. It is a thing which SHOULD BE GIVEN GRAVE CON- SIDERATION. It is one we cannot go fully this afternoon. I rather suggest that a sub-committee be appointed." Mr John Pugh (an ex-primary school head- master): That will only apply to children from private schools? If we admit children from the elementary schools we shall get into terrible trouble. I remember some years ago, when I was ahairman of the local Teachers' Association, I spoke to you and Mr Evans (the then Headmaster of the County School), about that very thing. We had children leaving school in Standards 2 and 3, which caused a good deal of trouble. Mrs Humphreys-Owen: I don't think the scheme would allow us to admit children from the ele- mentary schools, unless they had passed Standard 4, because they could not be admitted under 10 without the permission of the Governors, and the Governors would certainly not give it tor children attending elementary schools. The parents would have to PAY .£5 5s A YEAR, just as they pay for children. Mr Joseph H. Davies We should have to pro- vide a class-room for them. Mr John Pugh And teachers! Mr Joseph Davies: The Board of Education is coming down on us now with regard to our premises on account of the scarcity of room. The Chairman: Would it not be better to ac- cept tbe suggestion of a Committee than thrash it out here, because I am afraid we should get into other subjects ? The matter was then referred to a Committee, consisting of Mrs Humphreys-Owen, the Vicar of Welshpool (Rev D. Grimaldi Davis), Mr J. H. Davies, and Mr John Pugh (presiding). In a letter, apologising for his inability to attend, the Vicar had expressed the opmion that the idea of a preparatory class for the school was a good one, and would help forward the progress of the school.

BETSY JONES Visits the Newtown Fictaredrome. A New Alice in Wonderland. Me and our Ned bas been doin the Pitcherdrome lately very big Mister Editur. and Ned is that took along with my account that he ses it must go in the paper. Insted of nabbing all tbe spair oof for ale fair dooza for Ned he's took me three times to see Mr Codman's show, and its champion too, and Mr Codman has behaived very tidy and ) ginerous by givin prizes to John Owens and the likes of him for singing. Well, the first nite as Ned and me went we was right bang up agin tJiat cubbeid place where they reels the pitchers off some spinning jenny. Ned ses as he didna like the looks ou that masheen, for ses he—spose it was to bust, ware should us two be then ? Well there was folks sitting tight agin us on the other side, and I was that afraid I could feel the swet Some young gent was sittin on the other side tho, and jest for way of interdukshon I put a bull's eye tBiJee on the back of his band. He did lepp too just like a flee and thought as I, a marrid wooman was tryin to pal on with him. So I axed him strate if he thought there wasnt some deal of danger from that ther ellecktric contraption. He see there wasna none so I was fine and glad, but all on a suddin it started to gargel and perr like a hunderd cats when you skrat their backs. Ned druv his nales into my knee quite unconshus like but it did hert mos cruel. I told him th.re wasna no fear from the masheen but he was tremblin like a lef. Muster Codman come on the eean then, and the masheen didna trubble us no more. There t was a pitcher shuved up as made Ted laff fit to kill himself. In a bit he turns to me and ses Betsy girl, Ive busred me coller. And shure enuf one end was agin his eerbole. I wouldna hav cared tuppence but Meg Davips-the old sklem—was sitiin jest behiud and her could see and I knowed her would talk all abour the plaice. She'd better mend the ragged sherts and things that hangs on her own lines. Well them pitchers Mr Editur was grand, and me old ribs isn't rite yet from laffin. The first was about some kid that got clumped for not behaivin at a party, but lor he got his revenje. He went and dropped a lot of sticcy stuff on all the ladys and gents, and the way they jumpt about Hnd rubbtd there backs agenone and other, and when the chap that was sweat on a gel thought she bad a flee on her made us laff so much as I forgot all about our Ned's coller. I waS awfull glad when the gass come on agen for both me and Ned was that soar with laffin. Ned cmld see as I was reel annoyd about his collar so he ses lrok here missus you shall have one of them new hats that is sellin down street and sw'elp me if I dunna pay for it. I did go there aft-er a.nd squ.-ize in among the crowd which —it bein a Tuesday—was stinkin of farm yards and bad baccy. Ther I was sangwidged in atween two chaps as was smokin black jick out of deity pip's like chimblies, and I was gettin a heap down my gizzard. Mister Newell ought to have just had one whif of it and then he'd have talked tor hole ours at the next Counsel meetin. Well, aft6r Mr Codman blowed the gas out agin and me and Ned wasn't haff done laffin here c-me another pitcher as staddid us up pritty sharp like. It was a different sort of tear as come in mv eye this jurney. It was the tail of some pore man that was making up songs and musick tor the band, he thought his wife wasna faithful to him though her was as good as gold after lie had kiokd her out in disgrase he fouRd he was mistook ajd got to know that she had gone and gut him famous by gettin his things acted and sung at the theater. Of course he knowd his uiistak then and we seed pitchers of him huntin after his wife that was starrin and tratipin, and it was a splendid site tj see them meetin to be happy ever afterwards. One man that was in the congregation bawld out, I knowd he'd find her." His missus would give him a fine wiggin for that. Next nit", t >o me and Ned went agen and had a tremendous fine time. Ned was laffin at that bycicle chap knockin down houses and shops and stals in the market. But them sailer chaps as was ciuel to the little boy just made our blood boile. Ned ses he'd a liked 5 minits anunst them with the kitchin mundel. Our Ned ses as I've wrote enuf so just dry up the' I dessay as I could about fill all your paper with what we saw at Mr Codman's show. Its really a ferst class affair and its a eye opener for old and joung folks. It rnnki?s you laff and cry eveiy other and it was re-1 comic but vu!ger, leest w>iy6 not what I saw; and a deal of it was as good as any sernian that I've beerd.— Yours truly, BETSY JONES.

The eight representatives of the Government and the Oppo-ition who are charged with the duty of cons-idering the Constitutional questions at issue between the two Houses of Tarliament have met again and held long sittings.

LLANIDLOES. Election Novice Heads the Foil. November 1st, election day, was ushered in by a typical winter storm. A cold wind swept the streets, and hail, rain, and sleet fell at intervals, the Bun's ray a which pierced the clouds occasion- ally, serving only to intensify, after departure, the depressing state resultant upon prolonged contact with the mixed elements. Braced up for the occasion, eight of the nine candidates boldly took their places at eight a.m. in front of the Public Rooms, where the election was held, and right bravely withstood cold and wet throughout a long day. Dr. Davies was unable to put in an appearance, having a very busy day out of town. The electrifying excitement of being a candidate for municipal honours is undoubtedly a wonderful stimulant, ai wind, hail, rain, and sleet failed to efface from the countenances of the candidates the wonderful smile which is only apparent in full glory on one day in the year. Early voters were few and far between. Up to five o'clock but 200 or so had polled. From then onward, however, business was brisk, and crowds of voters besieged the booth. Mr John Davies, Harvey House, was polling clerk for east ward, and Mr Ernest Nuttall acted in a like capacity for west ward, whilst Mr Arthur Davies, town clerk, watched over all. The spirits of some of the voters being damped by the state of the weather the aid of other spirits was invoked with some success. At closing time a heavy thunderstorm broke over the town, which dispersed for a time the crowds in the streets. About nine o'clock they returned and collected in front of the Public Rooms, and voiced their opinions of the probable result. Meanwhile the count, over which the Mayor (Mr Edward Hamer, J.P.) presided, was proceeding steadily, and the candidates, now with serious looks, now smiling in accordance as their fortunes were being told by varying the ballot boxes, eagerly watched the pro- ceedings. In the opening stages the name of Dr. Davies was called by the teller with much fre- quency. Evans and Meredith went strong to- gether, then Morris and Jerman came to the fore. Evans was evidently in general favour and steadily went ahead, maintaining the lead to the end. The figures called out wera as follows: Evans 271 Morris 255 Jerman 248 Meredith 242 E. V. Davies 231 Dr. Davies 212 George 193 Owon 189 Morgan 108 The first six named were elected. The plumpers received were Morris 34, E. V. Davies 19, Meredith 13, Morgan 9, Owen 5, Dr. Davies 5, Jerman 5, George 4, Evans 2. I Mr Evans was naturally in a state of excite- ment when he rose to propose the usual vote of thanks, which was seconded by Mr Morgan. The Mayor then moved to the window and read out the result. Cheers punctuated each announce- ment of success, but none the less considerable surprise was expressed at the result-a topsey- turvey one in view of the general opinion A group of friends awaited Mi Evans and chaired him home. In the course of a few remarks he returned thanks for his election, after which be was vociferously cheered by the huge crowd which accompanied him on bia triumphal march.

MACHYNLLETH SESSIONS. Schoolmaster Charged. A Sporting Calendar. Th e Court-room was well filled at the Machyn- lleth Sessions on Wednesday, when Mr T. W. Bonsall (presiding), Major W. E. Bonsall, Mr Rd. Gillart, Dr W. R. Williams, Messrs T. R. Morgan, Edward Hughes, Thomas Parsons, D. W. Stable, Col Norton, Dr D. Edwards, and Dr A. O. Davies took their seats on the Bench. Mr Ed. Gillart applied for the transfer of the license of the Lion Hotel from Mr Norris to Miss Edith Goldstone. There was no objection on the part of the police, and it was granted. PHEASANT OR PIGEON? Sydney Graig, gamekeeper, Bont, Llanbrynmair, charged Rowland Davies, Hendre Farm, Llan- brynmair, with trespassing in pursuit of game on October 5th. Mr E. Gillart appeared for the prosacution. Sydney Graig said he was an underkeeper in the employ of Mr Stable (who did not adjudicate in this case). He was on the Hendre Farm on October 5th, when he saw defendant running after pheasant, at which he had shot. He pursued it to a hedge, and he put the dog through. When charged, defendant said he came out to shoot pigeons, and witness said, That was no a pigeon." Defendant said he thought it was, and that it was not his gun. Defendant stated that he went to fetch the horses, and he had been asked to take the gun with him to frighten pigeons. Craig did not search, because there was nothing to search for, He did not see a pheasant.—Fined 10s and costs. 9s. The same defendant was also charged with using a gun without a licence, and was fined 53 and costs, 5s. SIR WATKIN'S CONSENT. Owen Burton, mason, Buinant, Commins Coch, Richard Pngh, labourer, Red Lion. Commins Coch, and Richard Owens, labourer, Commins Cocb, were charged by William Watkin, Berthlas, Llanbryn- mair with trespassing in pursuit of conies on October 21. Mr E. Gillart, who appeared for the prosecution, said he was instructed to apply for a withdrawal ef the charges. This was being done wi, h the consent of Sir Watkin Williams-Wynn. -Mr Meredith Jones, who appeared on behalf of the defendant, said they were prepared to pay the costs. Colonel Norton It is a very unusual proceed- ing. He thought the cases ought to be proceeded with. Mr R. Gillart said the Bench had allowed other cases to be withdrawn, and he the application ought to be allowed. The majority of the Bench agreed, and the summonses were withdrawn. FISH-SPEARER FINED. Evan Llewelyn Evans, Typeliaj Llanbrynmair, was charged by P.C. Humphreys with unlawfully using a spear to catch salmon in the river Twymyn. Defendant pleaded Not Guilty." He admitted that he was using a spear, to catch fish, but not salmon. Mr R. D. Richards, Barmouth, appeared for the prosecution. P.C. Humphreys stated that on Saturday nhht. October loth, he was going to Trefaldwyn village, about 11-55. Before entering the village there is a bridge across the river, and underneath be saw defendant with a bicycle lamp, and a pole with a three-pronged spoar attached. He was flashing the light on the water, and he gaw him spear a fish. It turned out to be a sea trout of aoout 21b weight. Defendant moved up the river after he landed the fish and across to the other side of the river. He shouted to some boy, JC There it is for you." Witness asked him what he was doing there, and he put out the lamp and started down the road. He shouted to him that he bad better Come back. He left the fish on the river bank, and handed the spear to witness. i Mr R. D. Richards said that several complaints had been received that night poaching had been going on, but it was very difficult to detect the offenders. If this man was fined it would be a warning to others.—A fine of 20s and 8s costs was imposed. A RIVERSIDE SEARCH. The charge which was brought against Ellis Roberts, Caecanau, Aberllefenni, by Morria Evans, water bailiff, was that he on October 22nd had in his possossion a snatch and spear under such circumstances as to show that he intended to catch salmon by means thereof. The prose- cution was dogain represented by Mr R. D. Richards. Morris Evans said he was a water-bailiff in the employ of the Dovey Club. He was on duty on the 22nd October with another water-bailifif (Lloyd Roberts), and he saw defendant walking across the bank of the Dulas river. He was searching in the roots by the side of the river. They were about 30 yards away. They afterwards searched him, and found two instruments, a snatch and a two-pronged spear. Lloyd Roberts said he was present with the last witness on the data, and corroborated all his evidence. Defendant said he was coming down the meadow land, which he ownpd, along the side of the river. He was about to make a fence along the river, and he was examining the bank. The reason he had those articles was because he bad found them in the meadow a few days before, attached t) sticks. He took them off the two poles, which were at his honse, and put the snatch and spear in his pocket. In answer to the Bench, he said be was on his own land, and he thought the proper thing was to take possession of them. Since then he had com- menced the fence. Re-called by the Bench, Morris Evans said that when he took possession of the spear defendant I asked for it back, because he had borrowed it from another man. He did not tell witness any- thing about finding it. The Chairman paid they had considered the case, and thought defendant had undoubtedly broken the law, but they would deal leniently with him, and he would be fined 103, including costs, with a month to pay. Mr R. Gillart applied on behalf of Joseph Lewis Holt for a licence to use the Town Hall, Machyn- Ileth, for the performance of stage plays, and it was granted subject to the usual conditions. A CLOSING-TIME QUESTION. Jonathan Morris, labourer, Commins Coch, was charged by P.C. Evans, Cemmes, with being on licensed premises during prohibited hours. D.C.C. Williams, who prosecuted, said it was for defendant to prove that he was either a lodger, a servant, or a bona-fide traveller. The Constable, in his evidence, said he was on duty at Commins Coch on October 15th. At 10- 20 he saw defendant come out of the Had Lion. He said to him. "Whatdo you mean by coming out of that house at this time ? He met him by the porch. D.C.C. Williams said the constable need not actually find him on the premises. Defendant said he had been at the Red Lion. As coming out he met P.C. Evans, who said, It is after ten o'clock." "THE CLOCK WAS FAST." The Bench reserved their decision until they had heard similar charges against John Roberts, schoolmaster, Darowen, and Evan Davies, school- master, Commins Coch. Mr Meredith Roberts appeared for the two defendants. In the first case, P.C. Evans said that on the night of October 15th be saw the two doors of the Red Lion Hotel wide open. He went towards the door, and met John Roberts coming out. He told him it was after tan o'clock. Witness went into the house, and it was twenty minutes past ten by the clock in the inn. The licensee to d him that the clock was fast. Cross-examined by Mr Meredith Roberts: He went there on his bicycle, and nobody could see him dismount unless they were in the middle of the road. When he went into the house there was one gla88 of beer on the table David Thomas, porter at the railway station, Cemmes, stated that he had started from Cemmes to Commins Coch, when he met P.C. Evans. He asked for his bicycle, and witness told him that it was outside the station. He went back to Cemmes with the constable. It was about five minutes past ten. David Williams said he was the licensee of the Red Lion. On October 15th he saw P.C. Evans at night, and they compared watches, and the Con- stable's was five minutes fast. Defendant said that on the day in question be walked to Commins Coch and reached there about 8-30. He went into the Inn about 9 0. and stayed there until five minutes to tim. When P.C Evans saw him he was talking to Mr Davies in I the porch outside the door. They had compared watches in the house, and the clock was twelve minutes fast. WHY HE WENT TO THE INN. Cross-examined by D.C.C. Williams He want to the public house to arrange about the treat which Mrs Edward Davies was giving to the school children. His watch was eight minutes fast. The constable did not charge him person- ally. He did not ask Mr Davies to keep quiet and not tell the constable anything. He walked with the constable for about 60 to 70 yards and he did not accuse him. Evan Davies said that on the same day he was at the Red Lion Inn. He left the public house about three or 4 minutes to ten. He had a con- versation with Mr Roberts about the school children's treat in the porch. He saw P.C. Evans come on his bicycle and dismount. He said to somebody It is rather late." When the con- stable entered the room it was twenty minutes past ten. Cross-examined by D.C.C. Williams: It was necessary for him to go to the Red Lion. He always looked at the clock when he went in, and always looked at it when he went out. He did Dot know whether the door was closed after him. He never looked back (laughter). It was not his business to show the constable that the clock at the public house was fast. ACQUITTAL AND APPLAUSE. Owen Burton said he was the brother-in-law of the licensee of the Red Lion, and he lived there. He remembered October 15th and he thought the defendant left the house before ten o'clock. The clock was always ten minutes fast and he told the constable so The house was closed at ten. John Lewis, Commins Coch, said that he was at the Red Lion Inn. He saw Mr Roberts. Witness asked for a glass of beer, but the licensee refused him because it was ten o'clock. Mr Roberts had left then. Witness was the last to leave, and he passed Mr Roberts in the porch. It was about nine o'clock when he went there. By the Bench He was not in the Inn all the the time between nine and ten. He did not see anyone comparing watches. The Bench retired to consider their verdict, and on returning the Chairman said they thought the cases against Jonathan Morris and John Roberts had been well threshed out, and both would be dismissed. The police then withdrew the charge against Evan Davies. The decision was received with applause at the back of the court. ========

"TOWN'S LAND." Interesting Valuation at Welshpool. County School Play-Ground. Mr Forrester Addie's Triple Role. Though it was not a question of fiiling up a multitude of Form 4," Mr W. Forrester Addie admitted last Wednesday afternoon that he was in rather an awkward position" on a question of land valuation. For he represented three parties: The Earl of Powis, whose estate agent he is. The Welsh pool County School Governors, cf whom he is chairman. And the Welsh Department of the Board of Education, inasmuch as the Governors appointed him to be an independent valuer of the land which they are buying from Lord Powis. In December, 1896, Mr Addie and two other Governors leased from Lord Powis a piece of land near the Welshpool railway station to be used by the County Schools pupils as a play-ground. It was (like the town recreation ground) for a term of 21 years-from March 25th, 1896. And the yearly rent was fixed at .410. According to the indenture this land covered 12,350 square yards, ABOUT 2i ACRES. There was a provision in the lease that the Governors should have the option of buying this land for -6300. Up to next March the education- ist will have paid X150 in rent to the Earl of Powis for this ground, and recently they decided to ask permission from the Welsh Department of the Board of Education to buy the land, which will thus have cost have cost the ratepayers and taxpayers A TOTAL OF X450. In January, 1897, it may be added, another indenture was made between the Earl of Powis- with Major-General Herbert and Lord Windsor- the two trustees of the Powis Castle estate—and the County Governing Body to buy outright for £150 an acre of land to be used for building the school on, &c., and thesb premises are vested in a Government servant, who is described as the Official Trustee of Charity Lands." Last Wednesday's meeting of the Welshpool County School Governors was attended by Mr Forrester Addie, as chairman, and the following members Mis Humphreys-Owen, Mrs Forrester Addie, Messrs Charles Shuker, Joseph H. Davies, John Pugh, and T. Ward Green, who represents the Shropshire Education Authority. The CIrk (Mr C. P. Winnall) read to them correspondence from the Welsh Department of the Board of Education on the question of buying the play- ground. The Welsh Department approved of the purchase for .£300 subject to the receipt of (1) "The usual certificate as to the sufficiency of the title of the vendor. (2) "Professional evidence that the price is reasonable." What do you think," asked Mr Addie, as chairman of the Governors. Do you wish to go on with the purchase ? Mrs Humphreys-Owen (to Mr Addie): I should think they would accept your evidence as a pro- fessional man, Mr Addie. I think that simplifies the matter. Mr Addie: Yes. But it places me in rather an awkward position. I mean to say-- Mrs Humphreys-Owen You are for bcth sides ? I see no difficulty at all. Mr Addie: I should have very little hesitation in saying that the proper valub is not in the least exceeded. As a matter of fact IT IS UNDER-VALUED. Mrs Humphreys-Owen (laughing): No. It's no good saying that to them. Mr Addie: You have a right to purchase—the amount is stipulated in the lease. Mr T. Ward Green: The only point is what may be satisfactory to them [the Welsh Depart- ment of the Board of Education.j Mrs Humphreys-Owen We made our bargain, you know, when we took the lease of the land. Mr Addie (to Me C. P. Winnall): Would it be satisfactory if I wrote ? Mr Winnall: Yes, I should think so in your porition of Chairman of the Governors. The Governors then agreed that Mr Addie should supply to the Welsh Department of the Board of Education "professional evidence that the price is reasonable." The Governors gave no instructions with regard to the usual certificate as to the sufficiency of ttie title of the vendor, which will be supplied no doubt in the usual legal manner from the Clerk's office. It is interesting, however, t) recall tht the Powis Castle authorities purchased th,3 Count-y School grounds from the reprosentative3 of the late Sir Antony Jodrell, Bart., who derived the property from Sir Charles Lloyd, Bart., of Mwly- garth, by marriagq. This property comprised the some-time mansion of Dolanog, and extended from the neighbourhood of the Shropshire Union Canal towards Severn Cottage-property which is now cut by the Cambrian Railway. One field, tenanted by Mr Gifford Cant, and used in the summer as a tennis ground, still retains the ancient title of this strdtch of land. It is MAES-Y-DRE," The Land-of-the-Town. a Cymric name which Carries the title back earlier than the Norman invasion to the days when this ground probably formed part of The Town's Land." It is an interesting contrast to note that the Machynlleth County School Governors in 1896 bought tho freehold of If acres from Messrs Edward Marpole and J. M. Breeze for £ 10, the yearly amount paid in rent by tbe Welshpool Governors for the annual use of the play-ground.

I GOLF GOSSIP. [By COLONEL FOOZLEE.J Free from debt and with a promising outlook, the Newtown club occupies an enviable position, Excellent management and an increasing member- ship have evolved this satisfactory state Sub- stantial improvements on the Gro links may now be anticipated, and ere long this nine holes course will be that it is possible to make it. Capt. W. E, Pjyce-Jones has been succeeded by an equally enthusiastic devotee in Mr Clement W. Norton, whose practical knowledge is certain to assert itself in an appreciable fashion. The new committee is composed of enthusiasts, ambitious of serving the best interests of the club. Just watch their success. Arrangements have already been made for & more constant and efficient rolling of the whole course, the greens, approaches and tees will have increased attention, extra labour is being em- ployed, and the Ground Committee is authorised to carry out what will be regarded as most desir- able improvements, of which more anon. I am also delighted to hear that the Machyn- lleth club has now but a trifling incubus of debt, which will be wiped off very soon. With a kindly president like Lord Henry Vane Tempest any club might well succeed, and under the inspiring captaincy of my esteemed friend, Dr Davies, a successful season can be confidently conjectured. A new club house is on the tapis and when the project is realised the Machynlleth course will have more than ordinary attractions. Fortunate, too, the ciub has been in the selection of its groundsman, whose greens and tees are par excellence. This must be resultant of well directed labour, aye, that kind of labour in which there is manifestly a pride. I do like to see a skilled workman give of the skill that is in him. Most all other Glubs in the county are deficient in first-class tees and greens. There is no good reason why some ot them should be, having regard to their resources and money spent. I recar tly issued an invitation to Montgomery- shire goiters to look upon this column as belong- ing specially to themselves, and to use it for an interesting and informing interchange of ideas. There are a hundred and one points of interest which a group of golfers, casually foregathered, can discuss. Why not discuss them here tor the benefit of their tellows, either above their own name or a nom de plume ? Send me along a few. c, Brassy writes The other day my brassy shot sent the ball into a horse's hoof-print, which was full of water. I contended that it was casual water, but my opponent held a contrary view. Which was right? I should certainly say that the rule uf casual water applies here as in any other part of the course, not recognised as a bunker A little drop of water in such a hole ought net to count, but when tull it is bound to interfere with the natural lie of the ball. Should not stymies be abolished ? inquires another correspondent who laments that he would have just scraped through several competitions but for this misfortune which seems to dog him on the greens. I think tho game would lose some of its charms if stymies disappeared. The effort to loft over or circumvent the obstructing ball demands an amount of skill, which, when success- ful, is really a delightful feature of golf. More- over since strategy plays an important part in all games, the stymie ought certainly to remain. I have seen nothing finer at golf than the profes- sional negotiation of the stymie, and no good player should suggest its abolition. Anything which would make golf easier than it is—rob it of its intricacies—would, in my opinion, operate against the development of skill. And after all, who does not wish to be skilfull in whatever pastime he indulges ? What is your opinion of oiling the shafts of clubs ? asks T. J." Such a question would be more reliably addressed to club makers or pro- fessionals. 1 have always understood that oiling, though a preservative of the shaft, and a certain surety against breaking, gives eventually an un- desirable suppleness to the stick. This view is endorsed by Lewis, the Newtown "pro." I rub my shafts lightly with the petroleum jelly rag. and which by the way is an excellent preventa- tive of rust on the irons and saves a of labour. I have a ten handicap writes an anonymous Friend of Colonel Foozler," which I consider very fair in relation to pisyers on our course, but if I went to Aberdovey, Bortb, Harlech or any other clasic links, that handicap would not afford me the ghost of a chance in any competition. All the ten handicap men I have seen play in such competitions—I have watched them particularly —could whip me easily. Don't you think that the committees of our county clubs should con- sider this vital point? I do. The letter of my correspondent voices a pretty general grievanoe, but it is a difficult one to redress. However, I won't forget the point. The first entry in the members' Suggestion Book" at Newtown is an infiuentially signed recommendation that no Saturday matches be played upon the links during certain months of the year. I have a good deal of sympathy with that recommendation. Matches of course, always limit the enjoyment of those players who are not engaged in them, and Saturday afternoon during winter months is the only time available for play to many members. On the other hand, an abso- lute veto upon Saturday matches would, perhaps, seriously restrict the club's selection of a team, besides which the convenience of other clubs has to be studied. Certainly there has been too much Saturday match playing in the past, and the com- mittee, I understand, will respect this recom- mendation so far as is practicable.

A Pryce Jones Joke. SLY HIT AT A FORDEN GUARDIAN. Forden Board of Guardians were told by their Clerk (Mr C. S. Pryce) that "young Mr George Harrison" bad called on the Local Government Board with regard to the Asylum question, and they suggested it would be better if the Guardians sent the Home Secretary a resolution definitely agreeing to hand over the Workhouse to the county. The Guardians agreed to send the Local Government Board a copy of the resolution they had already passed on the subject. Then Mr J. Pryce Jones, a leading Welshpool Liberal, remarked: I don't know whether we should utilize—make use of the Borough Member. Whatever our political views are, we want to be united on this matter. Would it be desirable to ask him ? The Chairman (Mr W. Pritchard) The time is inopportune—later on. Mr Pryce Jenes: You don't know when you will be called upon. That's the point. Mr William Humphreys, Welshpool (referring to Mr Pryce Jones' right-about-turn on the Henfaes question) Which side are you on now, Pryce? (loud laughter.) Mr Pryce Jonf-s The same as you. Mr Percival Hurlbutt: Which side are yon on, Mr Humphreys ? Mr Humphreys On Pryce-Jones' side (laughter). Mr Hurlbutt: Then Mr Pryce Jones is right.

Stitch in Time. There is an old saying, A stitch in time nine," and if upon the first symptoms of anything being wrong with our health we were to resort to some simple but proper means of correcting the mischief, nine-tenths of the suffering that invades our homes would be avoided. A dose of Gwilym Evans' Quinine Bitters taken when you feel the least bit out. of sorts is just that stitch in time." You can get Gwilym Evans' Quinine Bitters at any Chemists or Stores in bottles 2s. 9d. and 4s. 6d. each but remember that the only guarantee oi genuineness is the name Gwilym Evans on the label, stamp, and hottle without which none are genuine. Sole Proprietors:—Quinine Bitters Manu- facturing Company, Limited, Llanelly. South Wales. The general results of the municipal contests throughout the country show a strong flow of Liberal opinion.