The Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Times

THE CHURCH AND REFORM. IF the report just issued by the Standing Committee of the bt. Asaph Diocesan Con- ference is to be regarded in a serious light, there is but the minimum amount of praise to be bestowed upon the united intellects of the group of men who drew it up. It is a remarkable manifesto in many ways, and if the Committeemen had made the acquiring of ignorance and bigotry the study of a life- time, they could not have graduated with lligher honours. The Committee jubilantly refer to the Suspensory Bill as being practi- cally defunct, but remark that it is well to remember that although the Parish Coun- ,etls Bill might be thought excellent, so far as its provisions affected the Church, it was distinctly a measure in the direction of dis- establishment and disendowment, as it cut away at least one link which for centuries had bound the State and the Church to- other. The tenour of these remarks un- mistakeably show how tenaciously she ,elijugs to the oppressive power which she un- fairly possesses. No matter whether the principle of her power is right, or as to the righteous manner in which it came into her grasp, she intends to fight for priest autho- rity with one hand, while with the other she greedily reaches out for more. This bitter opposition to the Parish Councils Bill only serves to illustrate how much the Church dreads the slightest lay interference with her supposed rights. The only means by which the Bill can sever the link between Church and State is that it provides for parish councils to deal in a certain degree with charities, to fix any place for holding the vestry meeting, and has the option of electing any man chairman. There is no pereon but a blind partisan who would deny that in each instance the proposed alterations are sadly needed. Charities left for the benefit of the poor of the parish have been in .innumerable cases dispensed by the 40hurch parson in such a way as amounted to a bribe to attend Church, while rate- payers have been powerless to interfere. With regard to the place and time of parish meeting, this innovation is one of the ctcong points of the Bill. The labourer has just ground of complaint at the hour at which the usual vestry meeting takes place. Unlike the parson and squire, he is dependent for bread on his daily toil, and consequently cannot afford to lose a half-day's wage to attend the parish meeting. He knows nothing whatever about the system upon which parochial affairs are carried on, and the great men of the village vigilantly exer- ,ei" care to keep him in darkness by fixing the hour of meeting at a time when it is im- possible for the toiler to attend. At present the clergyman by right takes the chair— whether it is or is not agreeable to his parishioners. If the latter desire him to preside he should do so, but at least they parishioners. If the latter desire him to preside he should do so, but at least they should have the opportunity of passing the compliment. It is unquestioned that in many vestry meetings there are men who are eminently more fitted to perform the func- tions of a chairman than their consecrated brother, who should not be troubled with carnal transactions. In the past, if the in- liabitants of a village agreed that it was de- sirable to effect an improvement, the parson had to be first consulted, and because the Bill reduces the importance of these estim-' iible gentlemen to the level of ordinary human beings, "it cuts away at least one link which for centuries has bound the State and the Church together." Continuing, the report deals with the question of voluntary schools and sectarian education. The latter is not considered suffi- cient at present, and mention is made of the BISHOP OF SALISBURY'S precious Bill for greater freedom of religious instruction in Board Schools, 'the Committee mourn that there is a tendency to depose religious teaching in Board Schools, and affirm that plain Christian teaching" should be se- cured as a portion of the instruction given. Later on the report deeply laments the de- mand of the Education Department for lMhool managers to put their buildings in sanitary order and conform with the Act. IThis they regard as a real crisis in the his- tory of voluntary schools. A few weeks ago 'We dealt with the question of sectarian teaching in State. aided voluntary schools, but there is in the report a veiled attack capon Mr ACLAND, the President of Educa- -tion. The reports of H.M Inspectors upon the various voluntary schools have revealed .A shocking -state of affairs. Many school .1mitdings are badly built, out of repair, de- void of lavatory and cloak-room accommo- dation, defective in regard to ventilation and 'Warming, while overcrowding is not infre- ^aeat. These prevalent cond tions are not conducive either to the health or education children, and Mr ACLAND, in persisting that such ill-conditioned buildings shall be improved, deserves the warmest thanks of -the whole community. Instead, he has ex- cited the fierce and unbending animosity of the Church clergy. These latter have con- spired against public opinion. They recog- nise full well that the populace cry out for a voice in the administration of the affairs of voluntary schools, and with the advent 43f the people to power a last farewell has to be said to sectarian instruction and church government. Why Mr ACLAND should be made the object of the concentrated hate of the elerical party is inexplicable. Church .orators scarcely ever forget to mention that they have been the pioneers of education, and ardently desire its spread. ,i _1.1 r. il If that were true they woum DO at mu ffight hand of Mr ACLAND, supporting his rolieyand seeing that education is imparted m accordance with the spirit of the Act. Instead of which the school managers, and the Church, through the Bishops in the House of Lords, give him their cordial dis- approval. If the clerical party were true friends to education they would rejoice in the fact that the country" has a minister at the Itead of the Education Department, who Jute done more to secure its triumph than any minister who has preceded him. In viewing these recommendations of the Committee, the only conceivable reason why tbtfy should be proposed by the full force of do Church is because the Parish Councils Bill, if passed, will just touch the incum- ) bent's power, while it is seen that if th6 unfair advantage which the Church has in instilling into the minds of tae young her own doctrines and practices, there is no hope for future adherents to her cause. A two fold endeavour is abroad, to protect voluntary schools, however insanitary they may be, and introduce, by fair means or foul, complete sectarian and doctrinal in. struction into Board Schools. It has been admitted by a supporter of this policy that the question of religious instruction and the ques- tion of school accommodation are the same thing seen from different sides. In addition to this there is the semblance of a desire tc keep the people in a state of ignorance, to allow the laws to remain unfair, and a manifest desire to acquire earthly power and such influence as will allow the Govern- ment of the country to be dictated by the Church. If she could attain to that position aud triumph by the innate merits of her own fdith, securing the popularity aud love of the nation, not a word could be said in disparagement, but while such practices are put forth, no words of censure are too strong. In spite of the bluster of Bishops and Lords concerning sectarian education, Mr ACLAND will maintain his policy, and in defiance of the report of the St. Asaph Committee, the Government will proceed to pass into law the Parish Councils Bill.

"SWINE, PAUPERS, AND THE DEAD." AN almost incredible story of squalor, immo- rality, misery, and overcrowding, has just come to light at Elham, where is located Folkestone Union. Thither professional tramps, worthless fellows, penn:less workmen, women, and children have to proceed, if desirous of resting beneath a roof- The casual ward there is a small, badly ventilated stable, and these unfortunate creatures are com- pelled to make their beds with a horse, a pigsty being on one side and a dead-house on the other! The sanitation consists of an open drain running at the feet of these helpless people. The most re- markable and astounding fact in connection with this hovel is that the Local Government Board have actually certified it as fit to accommodate 26 human beings Mr H. H. FOWLER was told that the casuals slept on raised platforms spe- cially prepared." In truth, the bed consists of two pieces of rough board nailed together by four lengths of quartering, which raises them three inches from the stone floor of the stable Only a dozen of these beds (?) are provided, and the remaining inhabitants have to lay on the cold stones. Even the coaimon decencies of life are disallowed, and in this kennel men, women, and children are forced to lie together like swine. For the privilege of sleeping in this den the casual has to remain two days, and he passes his time in a cell breaking stones. In order to ensure the com- plete fulfilment of this task the broken stones have to be separately passed through a sort of wire netting. The horrors of Russian cruelty can hardly beat this degradation inflictea in Christian England. In prison the worst vagabond is kept clean; he is housed in a sanitary and decent ward, and he works under infinitely better conditions than the poverty-stricken wretches who fall into the clutches of Folkestone Guardians. Thousands of rich men's animals are better cared for, and yet the House has a chaplain who teaches men that human life is of more value than a sparrow.

THE CLERICAL CANVASS. ON the occasion of the last visit of the Bissop OF ST. ASAPH to Welshpool he endeavoured to delude his auditors into believing that the large majority of Welshmen were against Disestablishment and Dis- endowment. This prelatic wisdom he founded on the number of signatures to the petitions against the Suspensory Bill. The overwhelming Disestablish- ment majorities of the last three general elections were to count for nothing. The voters simply gave their support for Radical principles. When it was suggested that the petitions did not bear the hall mark of genuineness upon them, the rage and indig- nation of the clerical party knew no bounds. During the week the Select Committee on petitions have hid those against the Welsh Suspensory Bill under consideration. Mr LLOYD-GEORGE laid bare some of the falsities used in obtaining signatures. He made a statement, which he enforced by documentary proof, showing in regard to several petitions the names of persons that had been obtained by fraudu- lent misrepresentations. The hon. gentleman also produced declarations proving that forgeries had aluo been committed. It would not be uninteresting to know how mmy signatures were those of boys and girls. At any rate the disjlosures were of suoh a questionable nature that the Committee was amply justified in deciding to ask the Commons for leave to make a special inquiry and report, and to ask for powers to take evidence. The further development of affairs and the unravelling of various mysteries connected with the clerical canvass will be awaited with keen interest.

PAUPERISM IN MONTGOMERYSHIRE. THE report of Mr F. H. BIRCHAM, Local Govern. ment Board Inspector, in regard to the four unions of the county is an interesting document. From it we gather that Newtown and Llanidloes Union has the largest population, 21,722, but Llanfyllia has the highest, rateable value, JB136.712. Machynlleth is the smallest union, having a population of 10 819, with rateable value of £ 54,016. Forden comes out at the top of the list with the exceptionally low cost of 2a 4!d per head of population, having expended JE1,957 in reliaf. Llanfyllin showlJ an expenditure of X3,896, or 4i 2!d per head, Newtown and Llan. idles, £ 5,737, or 5a Sid per head, while Machynileth brings up the rear with a total expenditure of £ 2,999, or 58 6id per head. Ferden has the least number of paupers, 330, with Machynlleth, 425, Llanfyllin, 647, and Newtown, 909.

A RETROGRADE MOVEMENT. ) A FEW weeks ago the Newtown and Llanidloes Board of Guardians voted the sum of t5 towards the funds of the Newtown District Nursing Asso- ciation to help to maintain a nurse. This admir- able society is founded for the sole purpose of assisting the poor in affliction, and before its inau- | guration it was felt that for want of a little skilled knowledge and judicious care and treat- ment many lives were sacrificed. Mrs EDWARD POWELL, in making the application, stated in her letter that the resident NURSE had visited in three months over 500 homes in Newtown and district —a fact which should be ample assurance to the Guardians that the Association was worthy of their support. An endeavour is now being made to get the resolution of the Board rescinded. The rural members feel jealous, and think that the Board should not contribute towards, an object which the population of the whole of the Union cannot participate in. Mr SAMUEL MEDDINS urged the objection for Llanidloes. Of course it is admitted that the Association will not benefit Llanidloes, but objectors should also remember that the Board's contribution of Y.5 does not of itself maintain a fully qualified nurse and ad- minister a few necessities to the poor for twelve months. If the ladies of Llanidloes would band themselves together and form a similar Associa- tion, no doubt it would secure the support of the Board of Guardians. Its object would be to aid the sick-poor, and as the mission of the Guardians is partly the same, they woul i only be fulfilling their duty by subscribing. We trust that the Board, having once made a donation of £ 5, will not be so weak as to reverse their decision-on this ground, that because the NURSE can only attend to one portion of the Union, therefore no part of its pain and suffering should be alleviated, beyond the relief usually given to sick people.

MONTGOMERY STANDING JOINT COMAIITTEF. A meeting of the Standing Joint Committee took place at the Town Hall, Welshpool, on Friday. Capt. D. H. Mytton presided, and theie were also present: Messrs George Morgan, Roger Edwards, W. Theodore, N. W. Fairies-Humphreys, D. Rogers, J. Marshall Dngdale, Richard Lloyd, J. Edwards, Richard Jones, and W. H. Gardiner; with Messrs R. Powell (clerk), R. W. Hughes (chief constable), and G. A. Hutchins (surveyor). CHIEF CONSTABLE'S REPORT. The CHIEF CONSTABLE reported as follows :—" I have the honour to lay before yoa the annexed return of offences for the quarter ending 30th June last. The number of indictable offences reported, as shown in the return A, was 26. The number discovered was 22; the number of persons proceeded against for the same, 21. Of these five were committed for trial, four discharged, and 12 tried summarily. The number of persons proceeded against for non- indictable offences, as shown in. return B, was 295. Of these 242 were convicted, and 53 discharged. Returns C shows the value of property stolen and recovered, viz., X13 2s 9d stolen, and X10 12s lOd recovered. During the quarter 6,656 tramps had been noted at the workhouses and lodging houses by the police, this being an increase of 1,083 as compared with the corresponding quarter last year. The increase is principally at Welshpool, Fordeo, New. town, and Llanidloes. The contract for the supply of clothing to the force (3 years), has expired, ana new arrangements will have to be made. The Hon. C. G. Legge, H.M. Inspector of Constabulary, inspected the force on the 5th and 6th of July. The force is complete, and its conduct has been satisfactory.— Report adopted. SUB-COMMITTBES. The reports of sub-committees on the sanitary condition of the police stations were taken as read. Mr G. MORGAN asked whether all the sub-com- mittees had met. The SURVEYOR: I think they have all met. Mr MORGAN You havo not called a meeting at Newtown, because the police station is in proper sauitary conditioi ? The SURVEYOR: The committees are not called together without the Chairman's authority. The CHAIRMAN Nothing wanted it at Newtown. Mr MORGAN said there was a number of sub- committees appointed about six months ago to submit reports, and he wondered what was the prac. tice of the committee. As he had not heard a single word for six months, he was wondering whether similar thiugs had occurred with others. Who was understood to be the convener of the committees whiMi appointed? Mr DUGDALE: The person chosen by the first meeting. The CHAIRMAN said there had been some little misunderstanding in calling the sub-committees together in the past. As he could not draw up some- thing in a hurry he asked them to leave it to the Chairman to frame a rule for confirmation of the next meeting of the Standing Joint Committee (hear, hear). POLICEMEN AND FIRES. The CHAIRMAN presented a circular from the Privy Council with respect to policemen attending tires, where it any policeman were injured, be should be entitled to compensation. Mr R. E. JONES asked if the circular had any bearing on the county. The CHIEF-CONSTABLE It does not bear on this county. Dr EDWARDS asked whether if a fire occurred and the policeman was assisting, was it in the execution of his duty to assist ? The CHIEF-CONSTABLE YeB. Mr GEORGE MORGAN underatood that the circular applied to the boiougns in which the police were firemen in that borough. At Newtown they had a tire brigade, and in the event of a fire occurring, would the county police assist? The CHIBF-CONSTABLE We always do. The circular has nothing to do with this county. It is where the police form the fire brigade, doing no other duty. If a man is injured by a falling bouse or wall the Bill provides that he shall have compensation. Mr R. K. JONES asked if a policeman was injured in the execution of his duty at a fire, in order to bring the constable under the Act, would the police authority have to mltke a general order ? The CHIEF-CONSTABLE No. Mr R. E. JONES T.-en how can he be acting under authority ? The CHIEF CONSTABLE: When the police go to a Are they are supposed to act. Mr DUGDALK asked if that method had been approved by the Quarter Sessions in the past or the Joint Committee now. The CHIEF-CONSTABLE Yes. A policeman is bound to protect property, and if he is injured at a fire, it is just the same as if he were hurt in attempt- ing to stop a runaway horse. Mr DUGDALE: And if a constable is injured at a fire he would get compensation? The CHIEF CONSTABLE Yes, because he would be on d'lty in protecting property. Mr LLOYD asked if the committee did not give instmctions, aud the constable rendered assistance at a fire and got killed, could the wife and family get compensation. The CHIEF-CONSTABLE Ob, yea. Me GBOKGE MORGAN suggested that each trember of the committee be furnished with a copy of the Police Act, and that the matter be deferred until the next meeting. It was ultimately resolved that the committee having had under consideration the Police Act, together with the Home Secretary's circular, authorise the police force in cue of Arm to act as firemen and assist in extinguishing fire. FIXING THE ASSIZE COURT. I The CHAIRMAN read a letter from the Privy Coun- FIXING THE ASSIZE COURT. j The CHAIRMAN read a letter from the Privy Conn-1 cil, in which it is stated that the Winter and Summer Assizes would in future be held at Newtown. Mr. DUGDALE said on behalf of the magistrates in Mr. DUGDALE said on behalf of the magistrates in FIXING THE ASSIZE COURT. j The CHAIRMAN read a letter from the Privy Conn-1 cil, in which it is stated that the Winter and Summer Assizes would in future be held at Newtown. Mr. DUGDALE said on behalf of the magistrates in his part of the country, he could say they always tried to support the High Sheriff by coming to .meet the Judge of Aseize. Tbe present arrangement cf holding the Winter Court at Welshpool, and the Summer Assizes at Newtown had worked well. It they had been unable to attend at Newtown they had made an arrangement whereby they attended the next, court at Welshpool. In the summer time the train services enabled them to get to Newtown by half-past ten, but in the winter the trains did not enable them to get to Welshpool in time, let alone Newtown, and they had driven to the former place. It the Assizes were held altogether at Newtown they would have to go the night before, and that would be a great inconvenience, not only to the magistrates, bu also to the jurors. He c.,uld see no reason « hy there should be a change. They had a good court tnd judges' logdings at Welshpool, and he failed to unierstaud the reason for departing from the old way of things, aud he was sure that the new arrangement would cause them serious trouble and inconvenience. Mr. LLOYD would like to correct Mr Dugdale in hitllltatement that it was impossible to get to New- town in the wiuter by half-past ten. Throughout the year there was a train which got to Newtown before ten, so the magistrates and jurors would be in time. Ur. EDWARDS said it wa-t not altogether the in- COli veluenc" of getting to Newtown so much as re- turning home. He strongly thought the proposed alterations were unfair to the county, and he further was of opinion that it ought not to have been mad without tiret consulting the County Council. He was certain it would cause a great inconvenience to then end of the county. The Courts should be held alter- nately, as had been thy ruie, until some good reason was forthcoming to show that it would be advan- tageous to affeoi a change (hear, bear). He thought tile Committee should pass a resolution disapproving of the change. The CHAIRMAN said he thought it advisable to make some recommendation to the Privy Council, and he had drafted a resolution which he proposed. The resolution was to the effect that the proposed alterations would cause much inconvenience to the larger portion of the county, and pointed out that at Welshpool a Court had been erected, while at New- town no special court had been put up. Mr R. E. JONES said if the words" larger portion" were adhered to it would probably excite contro- versial matter. He was quite of opinion that the present arrangement should hold good. Mr. LLOYD, referring to the pare of the resolution given above, said he bad great objections to the reso- lution. He quite agreed as to the continuance of the system of alternate courts ai at present, but he could net agree to the disparagement of one town to the elevation of another. It was qpite true We;sh- pool had a Court-house, but it was a great pity for the county that one was ever provided. It cost the county X82 per year, while they used the Court at Newtown free. He 3ertaiuly was of opinion that that part of the resolution should be struck out. Mr. GARDNER intimated that he would sooner pay a fine than go to Newtown always. The CHAIRMAN said be had no objection, if it were the wish of the Council, to leave out the words which Mr. Lloyd had taken exception to. Mr. LLOYD said that the resolution stated that the practice of holding a Court at Newtvwn was a modern arrangement. He asked if tnat were true. The CHAIRMAN (sharply): Yes, it is. Dr. EDWARDS drew the attention of the Committee to the fact that his part of the county was not so woll served with train" as the lower part of the county. He thought that was an important argu- ment for not disturbing the present arrangement. Mr J. EDWARDS: And it should be mentioned of the great expense to which jurors will be put to in getting to Newtown. In reply to a question, Mr POWBLL said the court h.d alternately been held at Newtown for about fifty years. Mr LLOYD Is that a modern arrangement? The CHAIRMAN It is hardly modern It was then decided on the motion of the CHAIR- MAN, seconded by Mr DUGDALE, "That the (Jlerk communicate with the Cl< rk of the Privy Ceuncil, poiotingout that the assizes had been held at Welxh- pool from time immemorial where commodious oouris had been erected for the purpose. That for a large portion of the county Welshpool was more convenient, and for thete and other important reasons the Standing Joint Committee were unani- mously of opinion that the present arrangement of holding the Winter or Spring Assizes at Welshpool and tUt; Summer Assizes at Newtown should be con* tinned." VZBT HARD LINES. It will be remembered that a letter from Inspector Lake, of Llanidloes, applying for an inoreaaeof salary of .£5, on the ground that he anticipated that he I w; uid be appointed Inspector of lodging houses, at a salary of w £ 5, but the appointment was held by anotLer individual, was deferred from last meeting. Mr THEODORE asked if Inspector Lake received -65 less Silaiy than when be was at Welshpool. The CHIEF CONSTABLE Yes. He gets .R95, and has been in the force 17 years. Dr. EDWARDS thought the committee could not entertain the letter as an application for an increase of salary. He did not think it was the duty of the Joint Committee to make up for a disappointment in not obtaining an appointment as iuspector of lodging houses. Mr LLOYD It is an application for increase of salary. The CHAIRMAN He gets inspector's pay, and I quite agree that it is out of our province to deal with it. Mr DUGDALE It is a case of very hard lines. The CHAIRMAN If we acoeded to his request what is there to prevent his acceptance of the post in a near future. The Committee ultimately decided to direct the Clerk to write informing the Inspector that the com- mittee was unable to ncuede to his request. DROPPED. Dr. EDWARDS had given notice of the following motion: "To rescind so muen of the resolution of 29th August, 181/2, as provides fur the allowance to Superintendent Crowden of £ 20 p r annum for rent of h >use and office; and to substitute in lieu thereof a reduced amount." He said he brought the matter forward in the first instance because he did not think that the increase of pay to Superintendent Crowden was placed on the agenda in that form. He was paid £ 20 per year for ten of house and office. If they put the rent of the office at £ 5, that left < £ 15 as an advance in salary; but he did not know what to do about moving his resolution. THE CHAIRMAN: It would be an invidious thing to pass this resolution after the Superintendent has been appointed for some time, and I think it would be advisable to continue the present arrangements as long as he is superintendent. The subject theu dropped. DRUNKENNESS AND PROFANE LANGUAGE. Councillor Ruts (Machynlleth) had given notice cf the following motions:— That in view ot the facilities offered to persons already under the influence of drink to obtain further supplies, special instructions be issued to the Police throughout the county to take the necessary steps to enforce the law against all persons guilty of supply- ing intoxicating liquors to tho-e inebriated." "That the police authority be specially instructed to take proceedings againdt all persons guilty of uring profane language." The CHAIRMAN said be had received a letter from Councillor Rees in which he stated that owing to the date of the meeting being also the day fixed for hold- ing Machynlleth annuii ithow, he regretted he could, not attend. Mr GBOBGE MORGAN raid Mr Rees had written to him asking him to support the resolutious which would bo moved by Mr Martin Woosnam. Mr Rees bad apparently forgotten the fact that Mr Woosnam was not a member of the Standing Joint Committee, and he (tbe speaker) moved the firat resolution on Mr Rees's behaif. In doing so, he should like to remind the committee of the celebrated saying of Paley, enunciating a principle which they all heaitily desired to see carried cut—"that a vigi- lant magistracy, and an undeviating impartiality in carrying the laws into execution, contribute more to the restraint and suppression of crime than any excessive severity of punishment." That principle was so thoroughly accepted by all that he felt sure that tne motion woUIa. be carried unanimously. There was an opinion abroad with respect to the liquor traffic tnat the laws were carried out with a certain amount of feebleness, and in reference to drnnk. enness, while there were a iarge number of convictions obtained session after session, they seldom found a conviction for permitting drunkenness. It would be well to know from periodical reports of the Chief Constable how many times the police bad been sent for by publicans. He thought the committee would agree that the resolution was in the interests of the publicans, and waa to protect them from rowdyism and from having their licences endorsed. He believed the larger portion of the publicans were anxious to carry out the law aid keep them free from rowdyism, knowing that they are breaking the luw by permitting such occnrence. The Chief Constable could give special instructioni. to the police with regard to this trade and the permitting of drunken- euuess on licensed premises. Mr THEODORE secoude i. He felt that there was a great deal of drunkenness abroad. On looking' the Chief Constable's report ne found 82 persons had been convicted of drunkenness, and ro one fined for: permitting drunkenness. Thf. CuisF CONSTABLE Yes, there are two cases of supplying drink. | Mr THEODORE remarked that the remaining 80 got drunk somewhere, and he thought the law in the past ^had been carried out with a great deal of laxity with f reference to supply people with drink. He thought they wanted a sober public, and the police should endeavour as far as possible to prevent people from making beasts of themselves. 1 The CHAIRMAN opposed the resolution on the J ground that it woald appear that the police were lax | I m tne discharge of their duties. With regard to special instructions, if they drew up instructions probably they would leave out some part of the law which the police at present saw was properly filled. d. As far as his experience went, the police did try to get convictions against the publicans for serving intoxicated men with drink, but the committee must recollect how exceedingly difficult it was to obtaiK evidence sufficient to secure a conviction. If that could not be done it was better to let the matter drop. He thought there was more drunkennees in the market towns than there ought to be. He had lately spent some time in London, and during his -4tay he never saw a drunken person emong five millions of people, but when he came to his own market town he-saw plenty ot cases. He thought the temperance people were pushing the matter too far by going in for conviction*. Dr. EDWARDS was sorry to differ from the Chair- man, but he thought it would be well just to tell the police to be a little sharper over the business. He agreed with the Chairman as to the drunkenness st the market towns, and he oflen wondered there were not more accidents to people d, ivir,g home. On a lair day a constab.e could obtain any amount of c ,n vict ons he was quite sure. They could see many drunken people issue from public houses The CHIEF CONSTABLE was stating that reports often reached him. but unless there v.-a8 evidence suf ticient to get a conviction they did not prosecute, when Dr. EDWARDS rose to a point of order. They were aiways glad of the Chief Constable's advice, but he objected to him taking part in the debate. Mr. G. MORGAN In matters of fact it is all right, b-at you have tri6sed the point of th resolution. ° Mr LLOYD thought by, passing the resolution in its present form they would be rather complaining of the way in which the police attended to their duties. It was very easy to see a number of people about drunk but it was very difficult to prove who had permitted the drunkenness.. Mr. DUGDALE: I agree with the resolution. In our villages and smaller towns there are people who are continually drunk, not only for a day, but from week a end to week's end. You can see them rolling I down the streets and then -go into public-houses. I am sure that the resolution would do a great deal of good. MR. MORGAN hoped that the resolution would be passed[unanimously, aud he did not think if the u nODstable sent out instructions it could make much difference. If they desired to see the law car- ried out he did not see what the magistrates had to do with it. The police had too much taken into account the magistrates. It was their duty to enforce the law, and it was the migiiitrates' duty to determine where mercy should come in. The judges must be wearied of stating that the misery, crime, and lunacy of the country was to be traced to the dr nk tramc, and to his mind that was one point the police should watch. A letter from the Chief Constable to his men wonld meet the requirements of the case. Mr. R. E. JONES suggested that the instructions to the police should be to trive special attention to cases in which occupiers of licensed premises should be snspected of supplying intoxicating liquors to per- sons in a state of drunkenness, Mr. MORGAN said the object- of the resolution was to enforce the law when broken, and they all ad- mitted it was broken constantlv. The former part of the resolution was struck out. and it was decided that the Chief Constable should give special instructions to the force. Mr MORGAN then meved the second resolution. He I believed it would be of service throughout the whole of the county. Under the Town Police Clauses Act any person who was guilty of u.-i-g obscene language could be arrested without warrant, and conveyed be- cilu a There was such an amount of filthy, obscene and vile langua?e to be heard in the streets that. even children were becoming familiar ^ikb it. He thought some steps should certainly be li the public.tron» continually hearin? such language. Of course a man could swear in his own house as much as he th--)ught proper, but the motion referred to those people who were in the habit of using it in the public streets. Similar reso. lutions had been passed in North Wales. Mr J.EDWA.RDS Tben it applies to all magistrates, constables, and the public (loud laughter). The CHAIRMAN = Yes, and councillors. Mr. LLOYD And it ought to have included judges and members ef Parliament (laughter). The CHAIRMAN said notice would have to be given as it would be rather hard to break off when a man I bad been used to swearing for years. j?" ^OE<S4N quite agreed that'notice should be called to the matter by posters in the streets. They did not wi-h to act in a tyrannical manner. The motion was then carried.

KERRY & LLANMEREWIG SUMMER FESTIYAL- The second annual show of flowers, fruit, and vegetables, was held on Saturday. The weather was fine, and the event was large;y patronised, large quantities of people coming from Newtown and Welshpool. The exhibits were placed in a large marquee, supplied by Mr J hn Pilot, of Newtown, in Maesyllan field, a picturesque spot, surrounded by lofty hills, the slopes of which were beautifully wooded. The flowers and fruit show was good, but by far the best feature was the exhibition of vegetables, Many of the prizes in the cottagers' class were keenly contested for, and Messrs J. S. Price, J. Evans, J. Edwards, and W. Trow de-erve considerable praise for their exhibits, and fully deserve-i the distinctions they gained. Noticeable amongst thy prize winners was P.C. Owen, of Kerry, who is evidently not oi ly an expert in catching evil-doers, but has proved his ability and knowledge in gardenia^. Messrs Dickson, florists, Chester, sent a good sho w of flowers, not for competition, and similar lots c"me from Mrs Nares. The Moat, Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones, M,P., Mr W. F! Thomas, Dolgnan, and Mr W. Walton, Dolforgan. An excellent programme of athletic sports, horse races, etc., took place during he afternoon, and the presence of the Newtown Excelsior Band considerably enhanced the proceedings. b the evening dance music was played, and many couples enjoyed the light fantastic." The work of arranging the details of the festival was admirably und.ertaken an.1 success- fully carried out by a large committee, who were greatly assisted by the energetic labours of Mr John Evans, Post office, who performed the secretarial duties. The following gentlemen composed the committee: Messrs. John Milnes (chairman), J. W. Poundley (treasurer), J. Evans (secretary), -Davies (Drefor), J. H. Stephens (Abermule), W. Alderson, E. Astley, E. Bebb, R. Beddoes, H. Chapma J. Jtt. Charlton. T. Corbett, E. Edwards, E. Embrey, J. F. Evans, — F»yer, M. B. George, J. Hugh T. M. Humphreys, J. Jones, R. Jones, C. Jones, T. Jones, T. Jones. D. Jones, J. Jones, J. Mackay, T. McCreatb, S. Miller, jun., R. Morgan, T. Pughe Morgan, F. T. Newell, J Owen, G. E. Pryce, P. Pryce, G. Shute, H. Shute, J. Trow, F. Williams, J. O. Wiliiams, W. H. Williams. and J. Venables. The judges of the fruit and vegetables and races were as follows :-Vegetables, etc-—Mr Rothwell, Leighton, and Mr W. Jones, Garthmy); farm prod- uce-Mr J. Pryce, Highgate, and Mr T. Jones, Stalloe poultry and butter—Mr R. Thomson wild flowerø-Mrs Nares and Mrs Poundley. Amateur athletic sports and races :-Startez of sports—Mr Walter Edwards; starter of b"J"? and pony races— Mr T. E. Humphreys; referee—Mr J. Mackay; judges of sporte-Mr J. H. Stephens and Mr S. Miller, junr.; judges of horse and pony races-Mr A. D. Dawson and Mr T. E. Skidmnre; judge of quoit-1 ing—Mr G. Hawkius; handicarper—Mr W. Baxen. dale secretary-Mr J. Evans treasurer—Mr J. W. Poundley; stewards of athletic sports—Mr W. Alderson, Mr M. B. George, Mr T. Jones, Brynliy. warch; atewards of horse and por y raose-Mr J. H. Stephens, Mr J. Venables, Mr E Edwards; clerks of the scales-gr T. Corbett and Mr J. H. Stephens. COTTAGERS' CLASS. Collection of vegetables (si; kinds)-I, Joseph Edwards, Kerry; 2, J. Da vies. Kerry. Six carrots-I, W. Trow, Pentre; 2, W. Bebb, Kerry. Scarlet runuers-1, Joseph Edwards; 2, Edward Breese, Kerry. K:dney beanfir-1, F. Newell, the Station; 2, Joseph Edwards. Broad beam-1, J. R. Pryce, Kerry 2, W. Trow. Autumn oniorA-1, Ed. Breese 2, J. Da vies. PllrBnips-l, J. S. Price; 2, J, Da vies. TurpLipa-1, J. Davies; 2, W. Trow. Early kidney potatoes-1, Thos. Brown; 2, J Evans, Kerry. 12 pods of peas—1, J. Evanq 2, J. Edwards, Paraley-1, J. S. Price 2, J. Ecans. Ltte kidney potatoes—1, W. Beob; 2. J. Edward- Early ronnd potatoee-l, W. Bennett, Dolfor; 2, R. Evans, Kerry. Late round potatoes-I. W. Trüw; 2, E. Breese. Second early round-I. J. Edwards; 2, Walter Davies, Kerry., Second early kidney potatoes—1, W. Trow; 2, Thomas Brown. White cabbage-1, J. a. Prioe; 2. Edward Breese. CocUower-1, Richard Kvans; 2, J. S. Prioe. f Celery-1, J. Evans 2. Tbos. Brown. Lettuce—1, Thomas Brown. ha.tots-l. Waiter Davies 2. Edward Breece. Savoys—1, J. S. Price 2, J. Davies. Collection of herbs—1, Jos. Edwards 2, D. Hum- phreys. Leeks—1, J. Evans: 2. J. Davies. FtiUIT. Dessert apples-I, W Trow, Thos Brown and W Bennett, Dolfor. Kitchen apples-1, W Bennett; 2, Edward Btbb. Kitchen plums-I, Samuel Br.ese, Kerry. Gooseberries—1, Jos rid wards 2, Thomas Brown. Red currants-I. J Evans. CUT FLOWERS. Asters—1. J Edwards 2 J Davies. Dahlias-I, J Evans 2, J S Price. Rose»—2, Thomns Brown and J Evans. Perennials-I, J Evans. Annuals—1, J E-twards and J Charlton; 2, J Davies. POT PLANTS. Fucbsia-1, J Evans 2, G E Pryce, Kerry. Gpraninm-l, J S Price. Miseellaneoniz-1. J S Pryce: 2, J Evans. Best design of fl jwprs—1, J EvaDs; 2, J S Price. Best display of flowers-I, D Jones, Chutch House; 2, Jos Edwards. CLASS II. For exhibitors whose rateable value of bouie and immediate premise's does not exceed je30 per annmm. Bunch of Six Carrots—1, J. M. Milnes; 2. VV. Dalies. Forest. Bunch of Six Parsnips-1, J. Owen, Kerry; 2, Bebb. Timber Yard. 12 Pods of Searl-t. Rurmprs-I, Rev D. D. Pisrce, Sa. n: 2, Edward Hughes. Kerry. 20 Pods of Broad Beins-1, Thomas Brown, Rose Hill; 2 Evan Bcbb. Bunch Ilf Six Lepks-I. Richard Morgan, Bahail- !on, a'.d Edward Griffiths, Bovawen 2, Rev D. D. Pierce. Sarn. BOIJch of 12 Spring Onions—1, J. Davies, Drefor; 2, J. M. Milnes. Collection of Vegetables—1, Rev D. D. Pierce, Sara; 2, \V. R. Thomas, Abermule. 12 Pods of Peas—1 and 2. John Owen, Kerry. Early Kidney Potatoes—1, W. Davies 2, Rev D. D. Pierce. Early liound Potatoes—1, D. Jones, Church House, 2, John Owen. S»fond Early Kidney Potatoes-1. John Owen 2, D. Jones. Second E-irly Round Potatoes-1, Mrs Brown, Ty Et.!wys; 2. T. Brown, Rose Hill. Late Round Potatoe-3-1. Edward Hughes; 2, T. Brown. White Ca.bbage-1. E. Hughes 2, J. Owen. Red Cabbage—1, Mrs Brown. Late Kidney Potatoes—1, Mrs Brown 2, Tbomatf Brown. Red Cabbage—1, Mrs Brown. Cauliflower-I, Edward Hughes. Ceery-1. John Brown, Kerry 2, Edwd. Hughes. Shallots-I, John Bowen; 2, John Owen. Savovs-1, John Owen 2, E. Hughes. TurnipR-I, J. Mackay, Saw Mill; 2, Rev D. D. Pierce. FRUIT. Gooseberries—1, W. K. l'homas, Abermule. Dessert Apples-I and 2, J. O. Williams, Cilthrew. Cocking- Apples—1, E. Bebb 2, John Jones, Grove Place. Dessert Pears-1, J. Davies, Drefor; 2, JoLn Jones. Cooking Pears-1, J. O. Williams; 2, J. Jones. Dessert Plums-1, E- Embrey, Abermule 2, Thogw. Brown and J. D;¡.v;¡>" CUT FLOWERS. Asters (three varietks)—1, Evan Bebb; 2, E. Embrey. Dahlias (three varieties)—1, D. Jones; 2, Evan Bebb. Rises (three varieties)-l, E. Embrey; 2, Evan Bebb. Stock=> (tbrl'c varieties)—1, John Owen; 2, J. D, Davies, Drefor. Best arrangement of Wild Flowers-1, Edith Davies, Dref.ir; 2, Fmily Brown; 3, Fanny Hughes. Sarah Carlton s d sr.l&y was alsohiehly commended. Ami'ir.l* four kinds)—1, Master Chapman, Dolfor; 2, J. M. Milnes. FARM PRODUCE. 24 heads of white wi-eit-1, S Miller, The Court; 2, Mr Lewis, Cwimnule. 2-i heads of ted wheat—1, T Jones, Gilfach; 2, J Venables, Penygelli. 2,1. heads of barley—1, H Watkin, Cefn Called J g, T Humphreys, Cloddia. 24 heads of oats-I, R Morsran, Bahaillon; 2. S Miller, The Court; Mr E Griffiths, Bovawen, was commended. 12 carrots-I, R Morsan. 6 urnips-I, J Venables, Penygelli; Mr D- Jones, Dolfor, was commended. 6 turnip swedea-1. W Alderson, Llamneheli; 2; T Humphreys. Mr T Jones. Gilfacb, was highly com- mended, and Messrs Jones aud J Davies were com- mended. 6 mangold wurtzel (red)-r-1, T Jones; 2, W Alderson. 6 mangold wurtzel (yellow)-I, S Miller; 2, W Anderson. Messrs T Humphreys and R Morgan were highly commended. Black oats-I, R Beavan, Weston; 2. T. Macreith, POULTRY. Best dressed fowls-I, T Humphreys: 2, Edward Griffiths. Best dressed ducks-1, H Wat kins; 2, T Jonest Gilfach. Best 31ba of fresh butter-1, T; Jones, BrynlJ. warch 2, D Jones, Dolfor 3, T Macreath, Treioen 4, T Humphreys. BEES AND HONEY. English bees in an observatory hive-1, Fred Evans, Kerry. Honey in comb-1, J Charlton, Dolforgan; 2, Q. Chute. Exhibition of honey in any other form-I, Fred Evans. Exhibition of run or extracted honey—1, Fred Evans. ATHLETIC SPORTS AND RACES. Half-mile flit race (handicap). Open-First prize,, X2 2s second, 10s. Second prise given by Dr Pur" chase, Newtmvn.—1, J W Griffith, 2, W H Hamer, Newtown F.C. One mile bicycle ra-e (handicap). Open. First prize, £ 2 2s second, £ 1 Is. Second prize given by Mr C W No-ton, Newtown.—1, Owen Edwards, Chirk 2, Tom Norton, Newtown; 3, G L Tilsley, Welshpool. 120 yards flat race (handieap). Open. First prize. 10" second, 2s 6d. First prize given by Messrs J and E O'.von. ewtown.-1. Clement Pilot, New- town 2, Sidney Bowen. Kerry. One mile flat race ("ra cb) Local. First prize, £ 1 5s second. 15 Fr st prize gived by Mr Janner, Kerry; second prize given by Mr Herbert Jones, Newtown.—1, Wm Cress, Abermule 2, John Miller, Ab-rinule. Half-mile Flat Race (Handicap. Local.) First 'iriz^, 10* seco id, 2s Gd. F rst prize given by Mr J. Palmer. N^wtowu.—1, Syoney Bowen, Kerry: 2, John Miller, Abermule. 220 yards Flat liace for boy-i under 14'. (Handicap. IVcal—two mile radius ) First prize, 2s 6J second. Is 6d Both prises piven by Mr Milnes.—1, J. 'barlton, Dolforwan 2. Edward Morris, Kerry. 240 yards Obstgele Rac; (Scratch. Local.) First irize, 10-; second. 2 6d. First prize given by Mr W. P. Phillips, Newtown.—1, John Miller, Aber- mule 2, Wi)mm Cro-s, Abermu e. Tilting riitch (Open.) F.rst prize, t2 2e; second, £ 1.—1. sergeant Jones, Tycoch 2, Sergeant W. C. II. Jones. Galloway Race, 11 miles. Noi exceeding 15 bands, 10stone. Sweepstakes. Weight allowance 7 lbs per inch. 10 miles radius.-1, Mr C. Miller; 2, Mr Jones, Nfwtown. Trotting Matih (Open.) Prizes about .£6. No winner of p race Dan be entered.—1, Mr Martin WOOS VARI 2, MrJ. Jones, Tycoch. Mr J. Bennett's horse came-in second, but was disqualified for break- Ill into a gallop. Pony race, one mile. Not exceeding 13-2 9 stone, weight allowance 7 lbs per inch. 10 miles radius. FirRt prize, XI is; sec nd 10s 6d. First prize, given "y Messrs Palmpr and silver, Newtown.—1, Mr T. Jones, Cwm,; 2, Mr C. Miller, Abermule.

WESLEYAN CHAPEL, NEWTOWN". TSI HARVEST FESTIVAL { SERVICES Will be held ou SUNDAY, SEPT. 10th. nft

A DANGER REMOVED. DURING the week the stone sets in the Cross Newtown, have been taken up by the Local Board. The removal of this danger to vehicular traffic will secure the approval of the majority of rate- payers, while, doubt'ess, there remain a few per- sons who will question the wisdom of the act. That the Cross was a dangerous place seems to be generally agreed, but it was argued that by careful driving there was no fear of accidents oc- curring. This objection is hardly sound, because of the large number of strangers who visit New- town weekly, and who, until they drive up to the spot, are in many cases in complete ignorance of the existence of the danger. It is a common oc- currence to see horses narrowly escape from falling on the slippery stones, and the removal of the sets will be welcomed by almost every driver, and if the dumb could speak, by every horse.