The Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Times

CHURCHMEN IN COUNCIL. By far the most important and interesting focal event during the week has been the meeting of the St. Asaph Diocesan Confer- ence at Newtown. This is the first occasion that the Conference has met at Newtown, and it is gratifying to know that the Leeds of Wales" has been recognised as an im- portant centre whereat to hold the annual meetings. The attendance of the clergy was hardly up to its usual standard of excellence, slid the falling off may be satisfactorily accounted for when it is remembered that Newtown is situnted at an extreme end of the diocese, and clergy from other extrem- ities were unable to make the journey. Notwithstanding, the Conference meetings were successful, and, to use the BISHOP OF ftr. ASAPH'S own words, the evening meeting was the best of the kind he had attended. The visiting clergymen were heartily wel- comed by Churchmen and Nonconformists Alike, and on Wednesday and Thursday the family circle of many of the latter was Opened, to the visitors. Taking all things into consideration, we do not think the Conference will regret having determined upon Newtown as the place of meeting for the year 1893. The object of the Confer. ence is to gather the clergy and lay delegates together m order to diricuss the spiritual welfare and the social work of the church in the Di-wese. By the interchange of ideas 11.9" suggestions are made, new plans un- folded, which by being put into operation will strengthen and advance the spiritual influence of the Church, while the effect upon the contfnunity is beneficial. A con- ference, whether in connection with the Church or Nonconformity is looked forward to with a considerable amount of pleasure by ministers. It brings together familiar faces, renews old acquaintanceships, and in every sense of the word is profitable both spiritually and socially. Pastors are ..trengttlened and encouraged to return to their labours with renewed hope and fresh purposes. Among the most noticeable features of -the Conference was the distinct forward ULOVOment which showed itself, almost without exception, in each speech and paper. This was especially distinct throughout the >-whoIe proceedings of the general meeting. Tho subject under consideration was the social work of the Church. The papers read and the speeches made were in good taste, and some of the Dissenters present •expressed their satisfaction at the spirit in t.wtwsh the discussion was carried on. Mr .1. MAKSHALE DUGDALE, of Llanfyllin, delivered an excellent address—eminent for --its pnwticability and also for the tinge of Democratic feeling which he at times BETRAYED in speech. The Hon. Mrs. BULK- un OWEN, who takes a great interest in in the Mothers' Union, contributed a deeply spiritual paper, and the impress- ive and kindly tone which pervaded Jier address throughout, her seasonable advice not only to the masses but to the ,etnates, rendered her the favourite of the 1 evening. The Kev Principal OWEN delivered manly and earnest speech, in which he AFFIRMED that the Church had not done her 0, TA yeal s gone by; if she had she would ,not be in the position she was to-day. COMPARED with the innumerable virtues and ,-absence of evils ascribed to the Church by Archdeacon THOMAS, there is a slight meoagruity manifest. The meetings on 3?EIDAy were more of a business character. 2K the morning a discussion took place on tile maintenance of National Schools, during WHICH several extravagant statements were ?3W«DET and. which we will deal with on a J future occasion. Reference was made to the .PARISH Councils' Bill, which the Standing Joint Committee described as distinctly a T MEASURE in the direction of Disestablishment JAND Disendowuient." The only prominent note of discord was afcrufclc by the President of the conference, the Kight Reverend Father in God the Bieoor OF ST. ASAPH. It is only necessary ia go back to the recent division in the %<rtm on the Home Rule Bill to see if his mind is tainted with party politics. His ^conduct from the day of his preferment rssxitii now leaves not the slightest doubt as .to his political predilections. Yet, forsooth, he has the unparalled effrontery to calmly tonlisel his clergy not to take sides in party politics! And this comes from one who at r She aarae talks about the Government harass- iitg managers of National schools by causing ribem to make their rooms healthy, in accordance with the requirements of Acts of ,-P a rliament, and refers to the promoters of WeUh Intermediate Education as a narrow aaul intolerant lot of persons. If the width FEUS LORDSHIP'S christian charity is some- times somewhat obscured, his Tory prej udices are exceedingly plain. While speaking apon the Disestablishment and Disendow- zneut Bill which will be brought in by the Government next year, he referred to the agitation, which he alleged, as being raised bv the opponents of the Church, and said that experience had taught them that their opponents were M not too scrupulous as to ilie use of weapons or the choice of means." Does his LORDSHIP think that we who live in Montgomeryshire have short memories ? Use of weapons Choice of means "Have Mr Humphreys-Owen's letters been replied to, and his charges rebutted ? Have the Suspensory Petition exposures lot taught a salutory leluiion ? It is a matter of lively hope that his LORDSHIP will take to ffceftrt the excellent advice of Mr MAKSHALL DUM>ALK, and remember hat personal example far outweighs the most brilliant .orations; and that hia beat service to the Church, of which he is a distinguished «M«nJber, will be to put into practice that sterling advice which he evidently thinks tfJt» kIfwymeo Hf the diocese of St. Asaph 011

MONTGOMERY COUNTY COUNCIL. The quarterly meeting of the Montgomery County Council was held at the Police Station, Newtown, on Friday. Mr Humphreys-Ow^n presided, and there were also present Ald. J. Jenkins (vice-chairman), the Earl of Powis, Captains Edward Pryce-Jones and D. H. Alyt, on, Messrs W. Forrester Addie, W. Scott- Owen, 11. O. Perrott, Nathaniel W-tkin, Thomas Watkin, Dr Morris, Dr Edwards (Cemmes), Wm. Cooke, Riohard Rees, W. Theodore, John Jones, Wm. Jehu, John Shuker, Edward Davies (Dolcaradog), Richard Morgan, David Hamer, Martin Woosnaui, Richard Lloyd, Edward Bowen, Edwd. Jones, Edwd Lewis, J. E. Poundley, Hugh Lewis. David Evans, Joseph Richards, Jno. Edwards, Edwd. Roberts, with Messrs G. D. Harrison (clerk), G. A Hutchins (sur- veyor), and R. W. Hutjbts (chief-constable). CANAL TRAFFIC. The Clerk read a long circular from the Board of Trade, in which it was stated that the Board of Tritde would open an enquiry in London on October 10th, and hear objections against the schedules of maximum chargts, rates and tolls, and classifications of merchandise traffic by canal companies. The Chairman said the Council did not now contri- bute towards the Mansion House Committee Funds, and practically that meant that the Council left the other objectors to fitht its battles. At the same time it would be desirable, especially as they had one difficulty with reference to the carrying of road mtsinl with the Shropshire Canal Company to watch the proceedings. He suggested that the Clerk be in- structed to write to the Board of Trade to send a copy cf their schedule to him, and also appoint a com- mittee to consider the list when it arrived, the com- mittee to have power to act. He moved accordingly. Mr J. Shuker seconded, and the motion was car- riea, the committee to consist of Messrs Addie, Scott- Owen, R. Morgan, Shuker, Mytton, and W. Jehu. THREATENED CLOSURE OF WELSHPOOL MAJRKET. A coiniruuicatiou was read from the Board of Agriculture in reference to Welshpool Market. They objtc.ed to the abandonment of washing the stalls, which was an essential part of the process of disin- fection, and they intimated that unless the market was put into a position as would permit of its-being washed properly, the Board would have to consider the advisability of closing the market. The Clerk taid he had sent a copy of that letter to the Town Clerk of Welshpool, and he understood that a committee of that council had had the matter under consideration, and some of the stalls had been attended to. The Chairman paid what has passed was this. In womp Stance with the request of the Board.of Agricul- ture the County Council had issued a set of regula- tions, which were based upon rules which were sup- plied to them by the Board of Agriculture. They contained a clause which empowered them to dispose of some of the conditions in which a. market should ba held, and m the case of Welshpool market, they decided to dispeute with the order which required that stalls should be washed. The Board of Agricul. ture objected to that, and said that the washing pro- cess was an essential part of cleansing, and. in answer the Welshpool Town Council state that they were going to wash some of the swine stalls. Apparently the Board of Agriculture did not think that was suf- ficient, and intimate that they will have to consider the advisability of closing the market altogether. It was not so much a matter for the County Council to de-il with as Welshpool Town Council, and he thought their plan would be to send a copy of the letter to the Town Council, and wait their further communi- cation. On the motion of Mr R. Lloyd this suggestion was agreed to. ANTHRAX. A circular letter was read by the Clerk- from the Board of Agriculture referring to the serious out break of auttuax in various parts of the country, and on the motion of Messrs R. Lloyd and J. Shuker, the letter was referred to the Contagious Diseases Com- mittee. WELSH INTEKMKDIATE EDUCATION. The Secretey of the Cha. ity Commissioners wrote enolosiug a scheme for the establishment of a Central Welsh Board, aud asking the Couucil, if the tcheme were approved, to appoint one representative to the Central Board; and to make any objections they might wish, before October 21st. The Chairman said everyone in the Council was awaru that their object was to provide a Central body in Wales, which would have the organization of Welsh Intermediate Education. The. funds would be provided from contributions from the county governing bodies, from the Treasury and from two charities, and would be administered by a large body which would be elected-the majority of members- from the County Councils, and the other members would be elected by masters antl visitors to the schools. The work of the Board would be to provide certain scholarships party out of the merit fund, to aid in training teachers, and to examine aud inspect schools so as to enable them to comply with the Treasury regulations, and receive the Government grant, equal to a halfpenny rate. They would also organise pension schemes for teachors, and aid ni purchasing materials. The body would consist of 60 members, and they could elect an executive commit- tee to make the iiecei-sary arrangements for inspec- tions and examinations of schools,, and? would dismiss officers subject to the approval of the Board. To this body they wrote and asked the Council to elect one representative, providing the scheme was ap- proved. He moved that they write to the Commis- sioners expressing their willingness to appoint a re- presentative on the Council. Mr John Jenkins seconded, and the motion was carried. NKWTOWN BOUNDARY QUESTION. The Clerk reported there was no report from the committee of inquiry upon the Newtown and Llan- 11 wchaiarn Boundary Question. Mr David Hamer said the committee appointed had thought fit to place their resignation in the hands of the Council. At the last meeting of the Council the matter was adjourned, and for the same reason he asked the Council to adjourn the subject again for another three months. For a committee to carry weight he should like the Chairman to-be appointed, but under the present circumstances he- thought it would be verv difficult indeed for him to accept the position to which he would be appointed. In the course of another three montha the bill for the establishment of Parish Councils would be passad, at least, he hoped it would, when it would be the duty of the Council to appoint a committee to put that Act into operation. Its work would be very much like the work of the present committee, and he should like for the whole question of boundaries to be gone into and have a larger committee, and for the Chairman to be on that committee, for there would not be the difficulty in sitting upon a large committee as upon a sm-Lll one. Mr Bowen seoonded. Mr Lloyd: Do the committee resign P The Chairman: Yes, and ask that the question may be adjourned until the appointment of a new committee. Agreed to. ARBITRATION. The Main Roadq Committee reported the receipt of a letter from Mr W. A. Pughe, town clerk of Llanfy- llin, in which he stated that the Town Council had decided to refer the question of the amount payable by the County Council for the year 1892-3 to the arbitr ition of the Local Government Board. He was also directed to inform the County Council that theic offer iu respect of the current year was declined. Mr Woosnam asked what \US the procedure in the case where arbitration was decided (81. The Chairman They have declined our offer, and will take whatever steps they are advised to in order to get the money. Is not that so? The Clerk Yes, vir. A SATISFACTORY REPORT. The County Surveyor, amongotlierthings, reported. that the preparation of the material for metalling the main roads is proceeding satisfactorily, and that the rate of progress in this work has been greater than in either of the three previous seasons. Up to the middle of last month about 11,784 tonsof stone have been brought to the roadsidef, of which 8,450 tons are already broken, and 3,334 tons are in process of preparation at the present time. Thp estimated quantity now required to be delivered is 3,016 tons, making up a total estimate of 14,800 tons as at present required for the five new districts." LAKE VTRNWY ROADS. The 'Surveyor further reported that he had in- spected the grids and cross drains placed under the main roads reconstructed by the Liverpool Corpora- tion, from the Old Weigh Bridge site, near Pont- lleohar, to Pontoedig. He found the loadway near the Weigh Bridge hollow in the centre. and showing traces of a large quantity of water having lowed over it in wet weather. If four croas drains were placed between Nantllechar and the dam, he recom- mended the Council to aocept it as satisfactory. The roadway was certainly not in first rate order, and he could not consider its condition now, or on the 23rd January, 1893. as baing at all satisfactory. On the date of his inspection the waves of the lake had washed away a portion of the slope of the road embankment near the dam, within three feet of the road, and the Corporation ought. am stated in his report of the 12th November, 1891, to make a per- manent provision against this erosion of the slopes of the roadway, both here and also on either side of the Water Tower. With reference to the bridges Pont- cynon, Pontoedig, and the others on the district highways, which have been reconstructed on new sites by the Corporation, he should be glad if the County Council would consider whether the oontr weald beooeie responsible far their »aint»nanoe until they should have been inspected, certified, and adopted by the County Council in the- ordinary manner. The Clerk was ordered to forward a copy of the County Surveyor's report to the Town Clerk of Liverpool, asking his Corporation to carry e«t the County Surveyor's report to the Town Clerk of Liverpool, asking his Corporation to carry ..t the works recommended. THE PRINCIPLE OF LAW. The Clerk said in respect to the till presented by Mr James Baker, of Welshpool, who was under con- tract to supply stone, and whose bill has been refawed t) be passed as the Surveyor refused to certify that the atone supplied was up to the proper standard, t:lat he had examined the contract, and he found i did not provide for the supply of any distinct quality of stone, neither did. the Surveyor's order provide that the stone should be of any particular quality. The Surveyor, however, informed him that on, June 12th, owinll to the delivery of inferior stone, that he wrote to Mr Baker telling him that his supply of stone must be of hard rock, and from that date he (the clerk) should eay that the Council could indist upon Mr Baker supplying good material. Alderman Jenkins said if they required material for a certain object, that material should be suitable for the object. He believed that was a universal principle of law. If the stone were too poor for the roads it was not proper material, aud they might un<ier the principle of law reject it. Ultimately the question was left to the Clerk and County Surveyor. CLERICAL ASSISTANCE FOR COUNTY SURVEYOR. The Mains Road Committee recommended that the Committee appointed by the Council to report upon this question be re-appointed, and direoted to report upon the most effectual and economical means of providing office room and clerical assistance for the County Surveyor. Mr R. Lloyd said that a great deal of additional work had been placed on the shoulders of the Sur- veyor, and to do that he could not attend to his other duties-the min roads. Would it not be ad- visable to allow him at the rate of X50 per year for the time being to provide any clerical assistance he might require. The responsibility would then be on his own shoulders. He moved it be allowed. Captain Pryce-Jones seconded. Captain Mytton rose to a point of order. Could a motion of that class be made before it had been be- fore the Finance Committee P (hear, hear). The Chairman Yes, it does not incur a liability of more than £ 50. Mr Theodore: I do not think the Council has arranged to pay X50. They decided to allow the surveyor clerioal assistance at the rate of £ 1 per week, but there was no decision for the provision of that assistance throughout the year. Mr Woosnam pointed out that the matter was thoroughly thrashed out in committee, when it was distinctly understood and distinctly stated that, although they would allow iJl per week for clerical assistance, the clerk was to be provided by the Council. If the amendment were carried it would be practically advancing the salary of the county surveyor by .£50 per year. Whilst he had every con- fidence in the surveyor that he would provide sin efficient clerk, he thought the Council should have some supervision over the appointment, and for that reason he opposed the amendment. Mr David Hamer said that the Council should have an office where any member of the Council could go and inspect the booka-an arrangement which would be far preferable to having them located at the county surveyor's residence. The amendment was then put and lost. IMPORTANT QUESTION OF PUBLIC RIGHTS. The Main ltoidg Committee reported in respect to Naotycerig-cbchdy Quarry that they recommended the question to be referred to the next meeting of the Council. Mr Rees said the majority of the Committee was of opinion that the County Council bad a right to take stone to the roads in the parish of Machynlletb, but were in doubt as to the right of takinz metal to any other parish. They wrote to the Clerk, and his opinion was that the Highway Act, empowering the surveyor to take stoue for repairing roads was limited to the parish in which the quar.y was situated, but under section 54 the surveyor was empowered to ob- tain ii. justices'license to take stone for the repair. ing of roads in an adjoining parish. The Chairman said there was a strong belief in tie neighbourhood that the quarry was one that could he drawn upon without limit, whether for the parish in which the quarry was situated, or for adjoining parishes without payment. So far as the informa- tion was laid before the committee there was noth- ing to support that claim beyond popular belief, and under these circumstances they would not give up a public right, although he did not believe that Sir Watkin Wynn would insist upon a right he was not justifying in maintaining. The matter was referred to the Council, but from what Mr. Rees bad stated it appeared they were now in the same portion as before. It was not a satisfactory one', and it wouict, be well if they could get information which woulu enable them to decide satisfactorily, whether the 'Council was entitled to take the atone from the quarry or not. The burden of showing that was upou thv person who made the statement. He suggested that the matter be referred to the Main Roads Committee, and unless they had some defiuite evidence brought before them which would justify the Council in de. ciding otherwise, they must take the law as stateo by the Clark, that the stone could be taken for the purposes of the parish, but not for adjoining parishes. C-tptain Pryoe-Jones seconded. Mr Jenkins said the question bristled with legal difficulties. Dr. Edwards Would it not b better to take some steps to get some additional information ? Other- wise we tihail be in the same position aa before. Mr Rees How does the Surveyor get on with get-- ting the stone from the quarry. now. The Surveyor said the quarry was being used. Mr Lester Smith allowed them to get stone irom tbe qUILr". subject to any rights which might be pub- lished. The Chairman said this was one of those unfortu- nate oases in which it was scarcely able to avoid having a legal decision on the matter.. There was n feelin* in the district Uttt Sir Watkin was making claim he had no right to, whether it was right or wrong they could not say. The Council: ought to back up ita representatives, but the simple plai. would be to decide a friendly a-ise in the County Court. For the sake of the district as well as their own it should be cleared up. Mr Scott 0-veu suggested that the dispute should be referred to friendly arbitration to save expense. Mr John Jones: Should we not before we go to law have some feits put before us by the repreterita- tives of the upper district, which would afford some clear ground for their suggestion ? Mr Wbosnatn said- it would be eisier to defend an action than to bring one. The prevailing opinion was that the landowner had no right, to demand pay for taking stone. He suggested that the Council should let him bring an action, an,& they would defend it. Captain Pfyoe-Jones: We are not in a. position to go into the details of the case to-day, and it should be referred to the Main Roads Committee, when th-i Clerk will lay further information before them. If it is considered necessary to go into further details I have no doubt m Mr WoosnamIs it. in order for a member to muke a t-eooud speech ? The Chairman r I should have called you to order before. Captain Pryce-Jones t Mr Woosnam is perfectly oorrect. but be should have allowed me to make this explanation. it The Chairman: Do you olaiui under the Highway Act? Councillor Rees: Yes. Dr Edwards said the question was not contested abonttaking atone to other parishes, but only applied to Machynlleth. The motion "A" then put and carried. WELSH LAND COMMISSION, The Committee appointed to consider this subject recommended that it confiue its duties to see that the whole of the county was tully represented before the Commission with regard to landlords, tenants, labourers, and occupiers generally. Mr Shaker regretted the action the Committee had thought fit to take. The farmers outside who would be specially interested would not be represented, but, would be left out in the cold He unrterstoo-1 there were two association* actively at work preparing for the Commis-ion-the Welsh (liberal Association and the Land Defence League. The forme" would put forward questions and grievances, but not very ex- tensive. and the other would naturally defend their own nrooertv. anti neither would benefit very much. Mr R E. Jones asked what was the meaning of ihe [ teoommendatiou of the Committee. The Chairman: Iu the absenoe of the Chairman of the oommittee, Dr. Roger Edwards, I cannot tell you. I have received a telegram from him stating that be had been unoxp otidly called sway from home, and wbuU) not be abie to attend the Conceil. Mr Jenkins thought different rnen should be sent to represent oertain interests, prejudices, and grievances, other than delegates. Mr John Jones said he understood there were several geotlwaeu pr pawl to com;, forward brt re the Commi-sion wb" thd silting took ptace in the county, both agents »ni tenant farmers. He thoug ht it would be weil if their friend Mr Shaker presented himself before the Commission (iaaghtoi). He was sure his evidence would be of greater value than if he l repreMnted a body like this (renewed laughter). The committee thought it would be most difficult for Mr Shnker or any other gentleman to represent the views of the County Council. They differed on the question of land reforoi, which would be brought, prominently before the Commission. It would be difficult to fix upon witnesses to represent the *ie#a of the Council. It would be more effectual if they allowed evideaoe to Qom« forward from individuals i allowed evideaoe to 4J089 forward from individuals who might feel agrieved. He was against the appoint meat of the committee from the beginning for that very reason, but he had no doubt that when the com- mission -at in the county, there would be a lot of valuable evidence forthcoming. Mr Addie thought if evidence were given on behalf of the County Council everybody should be repre- aented. Mr T. Watkins said iu discussing the matter in committee, it was found to be quite impossible to chose people to represent landlord, tenant, and labourer. Captain Mytton: I move that the committee be dissolved (lood iausfhter). Another mtmber seconded, and the motion was carried. STEAM ROLLER. The Finance Committee reported that they had I been in negotiations with Messrs Aveling and Porter with refeience to the manufacture of a steam roller, the cost of which woald be .£612 10s, and the com- mittee recommend that the Council obtain the roller at that cost. FINANCIAL. The Finance Committee recommended that precepts be issued for the second half-year in accordance with the estimates approved by the Council on the 17th March last. 'Che same Committee recommended that twelve montha' notice begiven to Messrs John James, Roger Edwards, and Thomas Phillips, that the Couucil intended to pay up on the 26th September, 1394, the principal sum of Y.2,500 advanced by them on account of Asylum Buildings. The state of the Liquidation Fund would then be as follows :—Balance in baud 31st day March, 18113-, .£145 3a 4d instalment for the current year, XJ,481 six m ,nrhs' instalment to 806h September, 1895; total, £ 2.36613s 41.-Adopted. WEIGH.TS AND MEASURES. Mr A.. Breeze, inspector of weights and measures, reported that during the quarter ended June 30th, be had inspected 2SJ shops. III public houses, and fifteen mills. He had examined and found coi-rtcs 3.,793 weights, 647 scales, 13U machines, 2,243 I measures. Tuirteon persons were proceeded against aud convicted for having in their possession illegal weights tmd weighing instruments. He had sold the ola county cart for tne sum of X4, and paid the same to the ciiinty treasurer. Amounts received in fiues imposed, .01 17s; stamping scales and weights, -02 12s 6id J67 9d 6id. 3 THE CAMBRIAN RAILWAYS. Mr John Jenkins moved "That a reduction of the mixed trains occasion much local inconvenience." He said that during the coming winter the passenger trains and the passengers themselves would be fewer, and it was very necessary to the people living in a district accommodated by the Cambrian Railways tbat Lhey should be able to reach their homes by mixed trains of goods and passenger carriages. In large and populous districts mixed trams were not so much required, but they were almost indispensable in aspareely populated district, such as that through which the Cambrian Railway Company ran. He thought it would be well to join with other Boards and Urger rail way companies in negotiating with the Uoard of Trade to get them to agree to the Cambrian Railways Company supplying the district by allowing them to run mixed trains. Mr J. Snuker seconded, and the motion was put and carried unauimou-ly. THE PARISH COUNCILS BILL. There was upon the agenda the consideration of a commutiicanon frem tne County Councils Associa- tiod with proposad amendments to the Parish Coun- cils Bill," and tha Council nad commenced to discuss the variuus po.nts raised, when Mr Woos uam..sug gestod that the matter should be referred to a committee, who should report to a special meeting of tue Council. Captain Pryce-Jones seconded, and it was agreed to. The committee was composed as follows:-The Coairman and Vice-chairman, Messrs Mytton, R. Morgan, G. bukt ii. Lewis, David Hamer, W. Theodore, John Jones, Ricnard Rees, and Martin Woosnitm. This concluded the business of the Council, which then rose.

THE WELSH LAND COMMISSION. SITTINGS AT BALA. On Tuesday the Commissioners appointed to inquire into the conditions of laud tenure in Wale, opet.ed an inquiry at Bala. Lord Carrington pre. sided, and the<e was a large attendance of the public Tfte Chairman said that he deprecaUd unfair l ftttftpks upon individuals, and ail witnesses would be i pr",teted. I Col. Lynes, owner of the Garth Melts cÜate, in I Denbighshire and Merionethshire, said that for the laat five years he had been spending tue greater part of his income ia improving his property. He came into possession of the eitate five years ago, the buildings being then in a very bad state. Replying to Mr Richard Jones, witness said he appeared in a purely individual capacity. In answer to whether he was elected because he was able to present the bet case for the landlords he said that he had not the least idea. Replying to Mr Vincent witness said politics, language, or religion never influenced the belectiou of his tenants. The Rev Loan T. Davies, Congregational minister, also, gave evidence on (1) landlordism and common land and (2) landlordism, Dissent, and politics. In lespecfeto the first matter, Mr Davies read a long list of cases bearing on his point. In 1838 Mr John Davies, of Brynglaa, built a house on Rhos Uoha Common, Llanuwchllyn, and enclosed an acre of ground surrounding it. He paid no rent for a long period, and subsequently Sir W. W. Wynn's agent ordered him to pay 2s od per year. A few. additions were made, and he had to pay 30s per year. Iii sup- port of his argnment witness related several other cases similar to the above. Witness then read a list of Nonconformist tenants of Sir W. W. Wynn, who having voted for the Liberal candidate wore victed from their farms. He cited tne ca^e of Mrs Mary Jones, Gveirgloddnien, who was evicted, at the age of 76 years. the was evie.e,t because aer son, the Rev Principal Michael D. Jones, took such an active part in politics as a Liberal. He quoted several other c-ises, and gave one in which i'hom»;i Rowlands, of Hafodyrhaidd, voted for the Liberal candidate. The roof of his house fell in and the agent refused to repa.ir it. He was therefore obliged to live in a stable, where he and his tamily remained for eight and a half years. He received notice to quit, and removed to Tjnywdrn, wherw he died. The widow obtained permission to build a house, and paid her rent regularly until July last, wiien fhe found it impossible toserapo the rent together. Witness was very pleased to understand that uie widow's c^se was under the consideration of the landlord's present agents, and could not brieve that the late Sir Watkin was aware of wi a- was going on on his estate, for it was inconceivable t.) him that any OLe stiould have so cruelly persecuted an old Liberal v ana should have continued lus revenge on his help- leas widow and fatherless utiiidrtn (applause). Pro- ceeding, witness quoted eight oih^rcase», and said that Nonconformist applicants for tarrnn, who pjsBessed nxyerieuca and capital, were rejected in favour of Church applicants who had neither. In reply to bir Jehu Lae*ei yu, Air Davies said that it- was very hard tmf these poor mell should have their hoarses taken trom tilm without compen- eation. Witness said t'iat tie could not jorove that Nonconformists were LUCUO-I out to make room for Churchmen. In answer ta a quist.oti put by Mr deebohm, witnets sa.d Lie presumed the common iMoud belonged LO the Governmeut. He could not say whetner the lurd of the manor was the owner r not. Answering Mr Brynmor Jones, vmness said that he believed Sir Wa..kin did not take auy personal i-iterost in the oLe-io!,o; of i.is a.gent. Witu regard to common land it would have been otily fair if the <audL.rd« list told th « people WjQ bailr. tie,.ion that they would have to pay rcti!. Th KnUord stood by while they were buitaing improving the land, &c., and tneu oarne forvai7 i a:.d detnandtsU lent. He supposed the evictions for reiig ous or political reasons pointed to iusecu ity tenure. Witaees said that the condition of th fartne. s in bis district I wax the reverse of p. operOllg and worse than it was formerly I In reply to Lord Kanyon, witness Ea;d he could not give no other instances of the persons evicted for religious reasons on Sir Watkin's estate. In the case of Thomas Rowlands, he b-iievei that he never saw thoi late Sir YVatkin, aud would have b en better treated if he had complained personally. Sir Watkin had given land for building chapels of had sold it for a nominal price. John Rowlands aud another of the evicted tenants were in Court. The first ",ittles in the afternooD was Mr Thomas Jones, (..C of LItLnuwchllyi, who -aid that tenants compUine 1 of high rents. Owing to want of fixity of tMuure, poasant prop ietors had died out, while farmers and their families ha.1 to wore excessively ha d. tin said that farmers' children bad to b3gin w nk at ulne or ten years of ag-, before and after school hours. No direct or indirect pressure, riiigioady or politically, was u-)w pat on tenants. tie cited a oaae where the estate age at had acespted money for allowing a certain peraoa to become tjfiant. In answer to Mr Vineent, witn^-s said that this took j»i*ce on Sir Watkin's estate The ageno who had aoucpted the money was Mr Jkihn Williams, and the nauie of the applicant was Mr Eras Jones of iihy.ljfcint. 'I Robert Morris, Tynycae, Llanuwchllyn, said that he occupied two small farms, which Sir Watkin hald under will in trust for charitable purposes. When witness first took the farm tfcere were no suitable buildings upon it. The house was also very bad. He had applied several times for new buildings. The officer served him with a notice that the house was not fit for habitation. He took the notice to Sir Watkin's agent, and he eventually allowed him a snon considered to be half the expense of building a hcmee. Instead of repairing buildings landlords were only too glad to consolidate farms. Edward Edwards, agricultural labourer, Bala, gave evidence as to the condition of the labourers in the parish of Llaudysil and Llanfair. The wages gave evidence as to the condition of the labourers in the parish of Llaudysil and Llanfair. The wages were about 118 per week, with an extra 9* during the harvest. Single men received R20 to A-26, and worked 13 and-14 hours per day Witness complained of high rents and scarcity of cottages. By Prolessor Rhys: The reason labourers went into the towns was because the cottages went into rum, and the landlords would not repiir thena. Mr Owen Slaney Wynne made a statement. He said that the- land referred to was not a qjaasi common in the nsnal sense. Witness was agent for the late Sir Watkin, when 16 years ago he made an offer to fence the land to keep the cattle on it, no rent to be claimed for three years, when the question of rents would be considered. As to Mr Rowlands' house it was in a wretched state, and was not worth rebuildiiig. They bad built new houses; only to find tenants which wouitl not move into them. To Mr Richard Jones: Witness admitted that the dealing with Mr Rowlands' farm might be called con- solidation. Mr Brynmor Jones asked if he ever served any notice to quit.—Witness said that he had. Mr Jones: What about these evictions?—There was none in my time. Mr Jones But yousay there were notices to quit- But by an eviction I mean turning a man out neck and crop. Mr Jones: I do not quite understand the opera- tion of this waste land. What is the extent of it About 200 acres. Mr Jones: Do you not know that the enclosures can only be effected in regard to the wastes of the manor by leaving sufficient pasturage by agreement under seal, or by Act of Parliament?—Yes, but I do not know that it was a waste. Mr Jones: If it was in the manor of Penllyn- What right had Sir Watkin to enclose it? (loud applause).-Sir Watkin bought it. Mr Jones: I suggest these points to you, Mr Wynne, and perhaps you will think them over and clear the matter up for us. It looks to me as though it was waste land.—Witness No, it is not. Mr Jones Well, if you can shew me any documen- tary evidence to prove your statements I shall be glad. Witness: I do not think I can produce such evidence. Mrs Rowlands was called, and corroborated the Rev Ivan Davies s statement respecting the treat- ment of her late husband. Mr John Williams, of Gwernhefin, denied that the tenants had been turned out on ncconnt of religion or politics, and corroborated Mr Wynne respecting John Rowlands. The commission adjourned until Wednesday. At the resumption on Wednesday, Mr John Williams, formerly sub-agent of tne Wynnstay estate, was recalled and examined. He admitted re- ceiving the ^lo0 from Evan. Jones to let him go into Rhyddybwl farm, and gave-as his reason for doing so that witness's father owed him money, and his son was liable for his debts. During his term of agency. which lasted for 21 years, only 22 farms changed hands. Mr Slaney Wynne, late chief agent of the WynB- stay estate, stated that Sir Watkin bad purchased all Crown rights in the parish of Llanuwchllyn. John Thomas, farmer, living at Gloddia, parish Llanycie, said that he was a tenant of Sir Watkin, but had been ejected because he voted for the Liberal candidate. He received notice to quit two months after the election in 1859. He sold his stock and bought a farm, but was forced to give it up on account of a heavy mortgage which was upon it. He again became a tenant of Sir Watkin, at P;as Mabon, The landlord rebuilt the farmhouse, and witness had to do the haulage, for which he received £ 13. He stated this was not sufficient, as he carted enough timber to fill a dock (loud laughter.) Witness sub- mitted a table of figures, shoeing the increase ill the price of labour. They were nearly all Nonconform- ists, aad therefore had to support two religions. Ti e consolidation of farms was a grievance, and in the parish of Llanycici 28 small farms had thus been swallowed up, and 120 cottages had fallen into ruin against 13 erected new. Col. Hughes, of Yetrad, chief agent to Sir Watkin, said that fivc3 he had taken over the agency he had gone over 52 rarms, and his valuation in 48 years hE d been accepted by the tenants. In each case he valued according to the average of years. Thomas Davies, Beawllyd, Bala, said that the practice of consolidative holdings prevailed largely, the object being to save expanse ia rebuilding homt- steads, and the result was that the land of the home- steads was not properly ealuvafced. The tenants h. d often to borrow mouey to pay the rent. The Rhiwlas t-nants one year sent a petition to the landlord aek- ing for an abatement. Those who signed the petition received X5 abatement, while those who did not sipn it received .£10. abatement. His landlord, often in addition to rent. exacted labour from him in hanlii g coal, manure, etc. Many tenants had emigrated to English colonies, and were doing much better than in staving in this couutrv. John Jones, late of Tyncelyn, L'anfair, said he had to fence his land to protect it from rabbits, and as traps were set in the wood he had lost three dogs. This resulted in an enormous increase in rats. The Ground Game Act was of little use to them, as the farmers could only kill on their own land, whilst the rabbits were reared in the surrounding woods. Pheasants .caused much loss. in corn and potatoes. J. R. Pricf. owner of the Rhiwlas estate, said that he had over -17,000 acres on his Merionethshire estate* which was let at an average rental of 9s 4d per acre. He had made several rabbit warrens, which were effectually wired. SITTING AT DOLGELLY. On Thursday the Welsh Land Commission sat at Dolgellcy, Lord Carrington presided. The f-tat witness was Mr Owen Slaney Wynne, who eaid, that he had been agent for Sir Watkin for 17 yeaps, and on his retirement the tenants presented him with a portrait of himself as a token of cordial relations existing between tnem. Witness advocated the enclosing of shee-p. runs where practicable, as it prevented dispute. He said that no consideration of politics or religion interfered with management of estates. There were not many commons, but there were rights of pastuirage, whieh were always taken into account when the rent was settled. Rents were soinetimea fix-ed, by valuation, but generally by pri- vate arrangement. Holdings were not let to the highest bidders. Farms were sometimes consoli- dated for convenience, but some holdings hd been divided, and sheepwalks given to lowland farms, f Landlords did aM the improvements, and the tenants did all the carrying; but if they left the farm L-oon afterwards they were compensated. Compensation was given for damage doue by game. Daring 16 years of his agency on Sir W. Wynne's estate, com- prising 140,000 acres, j6113,460 was spent in building and repairing. Witness had no authority to give the income during that time. On being examined, witness said that if the tenants had not their money ready on the audit day the land. invariably waited. The tenants did not sell their lords stock at a loss to prepare for the audit day. Tenants did not take advantage of sires introduced by the landlords to improve the breed of stock, although the fees were moderate. Witness replying to a ques- tion, said that he could not give any specific in- ■ stance where compensation had been given for damage done by game. Witness considered it would be an advantage to have Acts of Parliament traiv- slated into Welsh. Charles Alfred Jones, solicitor, Carnarvon, owner of 500 acres at Trawsfynydd, said there wera oon. Isiderable sheep rnns over his two farms, and the tenants were privileged to use of them. All improve- ments were done by him, and the rents had not been raised for the last 50 vears. William Pngh, Pantglas, Trawffynydd, gave evi. denoe relating to the estate of Mr Vanghan, of Nannau. He said they were chiefly pasture and sheep farms. He had been tenant of the farm for 20 vears. and paid .£90 for it. When Mr Vaughan came into possession it was re-valued, and the rent was raised J>40 without proper notice being given. Witness subsequently applied for a reduction of rent which was refused, and he received a notice to quit. While tenant he dtd foores of improvements in draining, and also paid .-£50 for a wall to be built, but never received a penny of compensation. David Evans, Caer Einion, Dolgeliey, said when he was a tenant he went to considerable expense, in 1 carting for rebuilding his farm-house, on an agree- ment that if he was to be turned out, he would be compensated. He received notice to quit in 1881 on the farm being up for sale. On their being a new! agent, he was not able to get any compensation be- cause he had not got the agreement in writing. Cadwalladr Roberta, Ynyø Cyfylog and Tyddyn Back, complained that some years ago land was taken from his farm for the purposes of the Cambrian Railway, and no reduction was made in his amt. That meant a low of about Xi per acre to him Bill rent had also on several occasions been raised Other witnesses also gave evidence with respect to the game deeftroying their grain and crops. Griffith Price, jnn., Gors-y-Garnedd, also gave evidence tonohing on the parish of Llanfaohreth, in which the chief landowner WM Mr Vaoghan of Hanriita. He also stated that Churchmen had a better dtaaoe of obtaining farms than Nonconfor- mWI. 1D sower to queitioog he said tbat titt (majority of tenants were Nonconformists. He di £ not know of any Nonoonfc rmist lanyoweners. He suggested that the present notice of Bix months 'should be extended to twelve. Dr Jones, of Caerffynon, Doigelley, contradicted Dr Jones, of Caerffynon, Doigelley, contradicted the last witness on several points. The Court arose at half-PIL;ot five, and met at Barmouth on Friday.

BOARDS OF GUARDIANS. FORUEN. WtDNESDAY.—Preaent: Mr W. Pryce, vice-chair* man, presiding, the Rev L. J. Lee, tx-officio, Rev J. Sawer, Leighton, Messrs E. R. Owen, Berriew, W. E. Jones, Chirbury, John Davi-s, Llandyssil, Francie Langford, Montgomery, J. Pryce Jones, Welshpool, KJward Hughes, Rhos, and John Powell, Worthen* with Mr C. b. Pryce, clerk. fcTATISTICS, The Matter reported that the number of inmates is the bouse was first week 103, against 94 the corres- ponding week last year; second week 101, against 91. Tramps relieved during the past fortnight, 149. The following amounts were expended in out-relief- Montgomery, per Mr R. Tomley, tl2 13 to æ per- sons Welshpool, per Mr J. Fortune, XIO 2s lOd to 71 recipients i and Worthen, per Mr J. Oliver, iP 138 8d to 67 wople. THE SCHOOL The Rev Mr Vize (chaplain) atte uded the Board, ijL respect to an application from the Board asking if the managers of Forden school could find accommodatioB tor the Union children. The rev. gentleman stated that he was sorry there was a great difficulty in the ,way of failing in with the guardians" request. At present there was accommodation for 108 scholars, ,and there was an average attendauce of 98, and therefore, if the guardians sent more than 17 obil- dren it was clear that the managers would have to build. The parishioners at the present state of affairs did not feel inclined to put their bands in their pockets. Besides, if the Union chil. dren came to the school there would be mace teaching pewer required, as at present there was only the schoolmaster, his wife, and a pupil teacher and the second was said t, be suffering in health owing to hard work. The Chairman said under the circumstances it woiid be best for the Board to take steps to get ft new governess to teach the children.—Agreed. TlD COAL STRIKE. The Clerk reported that Mr Downes (Master) had handed to him a letter sent by Mr Williams, coal contractor, to the effect that he could not supply coal at contract prices on account of the strike, and in a later letter Mr Williams said he thought the Master was very much at fault in not getting, a stock in before the strike occurred, and the coal could then have been easily supplied. The present price he had to pay for coal was 14Lj lOd, which was 2s 6d more than contract price, and he asked the Boaru to meet him halfway. The Chairman This appeals to our charity; Mr Hughes: We have got none. This is- not a charitable institution (laughter.) The Chairman We have no reason to let him off. Mr Hughes Not a bit. Mr ORell: It is very hard lines, and we ought t& meet him. The Chairman: There are two sides to the ques- tion. If the coal had gone down in price would he have given us anything.? Mr Hughes Never a farthing. Rev L J. Lee asked if the auditor would pass any item for allowance. The Chairman I agnee that the Master should have laid in a larger itoek. Mr Huglie, We have never deviated from a con- traet, and wry should we for this man. There is a principle involved. It is a begging letter. Mr Owen said the contractor could not get coal. Mr Hughes If he cunnot, we can't help him. Mr Lee Tne oontraetor has made a bad "spec," and he wants us to help him to pay for it.—It was ultimately decided to obtain the coal according to the condition of the contract, i.e., in default of de- livery in due time by the contractor, the Master niaj purchase the coil, and debit the contractor with the additional cost. TENDERS. The remainder of the time was occupied in examin- ing the tenders sent in, and the acceptance of same. MACHYNLLETH,—WEDNESDAY. Present: Messrs Edward Haghes, Abetfrydlsn, (chnirman); John Rees, Towyn, (vice-chairman); Ellis hughes, Cemmes; Richard Owen, Issygarreg; Thomas Evans, Darowen; Edward Morgan. Lianbryu- mair; Wm. Parry, Pennal; John Rowlands, solicitor, au d, Richard Ei;is, Machynlleth and William Jones Aberd jvey; Mr D. Evans, clerk, and D. Morgan an- sistant cledr. 8TATMTIC6. Oat-relief administered during the past fortnight, Machynlleth district, per Mr J<.tm Jones, t23 Sa 1 to 100 paupers. Darowen district per Mr D. Howell, X44 Is 8d to 163 paupers. Prnnal district, per Mr W. Jones, t29 3 10d to 97 paupers. Number in the house, 42, last year, corresponding period, 34. Vag- rants relieved during past fortnight 51, last year 39. ESTIMATES. The clerk presented an estimate of expenditure of .he Union for the current half year.—Mr John Rowlands consider the estimate a satisfactory one. There was a reduction in the expenses and as farmers complained of the rates being high, be trusted the Guardians would lay the fact of reduction before their respective vestries. A previous half years estimate was .£14 Os 6d, but the present was only £ 12 0s0d.—Mr Edward Morgan did aut think nc- rancy could never be reduced.

SHROPSHIRE AND DISTRICT LEAGUE. WHITCHURCH v. NEWTOWN. On Saturday last Newtown journeyed to Whitw church to play their second match in the above com- petition. The weather a as beautifully fine, and there was a large attendance of spectators, in fact the gate was a record one, the visit of last year's champions having been looked forward to with great interest. The visitors won the toss, and elected to play uphill, with the sun in their faces. Captain Ethelstone, president of the W nitohurch Club, set the ball in motion for the homesters, and the leather was quickly transferred from end to end, the Newtown defenoft being somewha-L. taxed owing to the uuevenness of the ground. Nothing, however, resulted lor the first twenty minutes, and then the Whitchurch right winlC drew fiist blood, amidst great excitement, 1 a few minutes from the re-start tbe visitors equalized, and before half-time was Md each side had added another goal, the reams crossing over witn two goals each. The s"coud half was well contested, the de- fence on both sides showing to an vantage, half an hour having elapsed before Newbowu added their third goal. The visitors now began to assert their superiority, several coruers falling to them in quiek succession. A free kick for a foul was awarded to them in front of the bome citadel, and from this they scored number four. The ball was again set in motion, and only a few minutes remained for play, when from a capital ran down thx inft wing, aud an equally good centre, Newtown again boored, and thus wen a hard-fought victory by fire goals to two. The We shmen again seem to be making a bid for the top of the League table, having wen their first two matches with a goal average of fifteen against two. On Saturday raxt they meet Wellington èt. George's an the Cup." when a 4001 g -me oMf be expected. Mr MulLwraith, of Shrewsbury, witL officiate as referee. The other matches in the above competition played: on Saturday last resulted as follows :— Al Shrewsbury: Shrewsbury L,wn 4 Wellington 1 At Newpoit: Hereford 4 Newport. 2 At I ronbridge Ironbridge 4. Oswestry 3. MONTGOMERY —A k-enly contested game was played between Montgomery JUtlicr" and Montgomery Station at Ca-rhoweii, on Saturday on field' kindly lent by Mr H. Jones, of Sottoa. The better combin- ation was shewn by the Statio.. men, but the youngsters, playing determined g me, quite held their own, and a draw of two go--In "a resulted. Harris, Stephen DaVtes, and Jones, ia the Station front rank, played a « and eff ectivejpasrin/; game, and one at least brilliant save b) Tanner in the railway men's goal averted kis sidi" defeat. Walter Jones, for the juniors, was a tower of strength, and Tom Weaver, ably assisted by H. gvwu and C. Jones were the pick of the forwards.

PENSTROWM AKNIVEESABY SWIVICBS.—-On Sunday, eprnist services ia connect e with th" Wesley an Smdif School were held in tue <-haoeL 1-tbesttarnomxr H. A. Party, of N-.v-own, delivered a learned discourse to a Lug, evi greiration. In the evening the sanctuary wtn crowded to its utmost tsxtent, wbm tbe ohair WI'" ably filled by Dr D. 1* 1' e, of Nowtown, who tuads speech, and was assisted JY Mr Pefty. | The children rait*. a«<r di: v-r. and the • attrao ion of1 be proceedings was f artner en aneed by »efficient sing) 1g on t. "f C rsTB %stetn» Party.