The North Wales Chronicle and Advertiser for the Principality

An Easy Date to Remember, JANUARY 1st.. BROWN'S of Chester > = = — ———————————— (Onc of the most Up-to-date Stores ill the Kitlgdom). 76th ANNUAL STOCKTAKING SALE WILL COMMENCE ON Saturday, January 1st, 1916. Our Stocktaking Sales have always been regarded as genuine opportunities for economic buying-the fact is widely recognised and dppreciated that we offcr at "reduced prices the standard goods stocked by us all the year round. The conditions existing at present are exceptional and exceedingly difficult- scarcity of goods and high prices prevail," and the longer the war lasts the more acute will these become. We would call particular attention to the offers in our Household Linen and Drapery Departments, which afford a splendid opportunity of replenishing Table and Bed Linen, Towels and every other Household req uisite at prices much below those prevailing to-day— owing to the great scarcity ot Flax .s- .JW,M all these goods are daily advancing in price. WRITE FOR SALE BOOKLET-POST FREE. i BROWN'S of Eastgate Row, I

LIST OF CASUALTIES. The following names of officers and men are I included in the official casualty lists published this I week:— FRANCE. I KILLED. 9th BAIT. R. W. FUSILIERS. Evario, 31376 J. 10th BATT. R. W. FUSILIERS. Evans, 15C89 Cpl. R. M.; Stain ton, 15549 L.-Cpl. W. WOUNDED. 1st BATT. R. W. FUSILIERS. Farnsworth, 4053 J. 2nd RATT. R. W. FUSILIERS. Baron, 8108 L.-Cpl. W.; Alexander, 6703 W. Jones. 4943 Ce.-Sergt.-Maj. F.; Wilkinson, 31220 W.; Williams, 11113 '1. O. 9th BATT. R. W. FUSILIERS. Gray, 31C87 W. A.; Seefus, 24403 J. F. j ICth HAlT. R. W. FUSILIERS. Fry, 14966 E.; Lewis, 15396 D.; Rogers, 15179 r. 16th BATT. R. W. FUSILIERS. Jwk*, 18758 W. DIED OF WOUNDS. 9th BATT. R. W. FUSILIERS. Prry, 5655 J.

MEDITERRANEAN FORCE. I WOUNDED. btii BATT. It W. FUSILIERS. (TERRITORIAL FOBCK). Evans. 2442 T.; Jones, 1729 M. 7th BATT. R. AV. FUSILIERS. (Terkitoiual FORCE.) Evans, 25i9 D. G.; Morri-, 2 £ _< R. V. Whit- ungiron, 4;)¡W. DIED OF WOUN3. 8th BATT. R. W. FL'SILIERS. Davis, 24453 C. J. DIED. 5th BArr. R. W. FUSILIERS. (Tehbiiokial FoBCi. Whitley, 2418 J. bti) BATT. R. W. FCS1LIERS. ITebhiiobial FORCE.) RobertlS, 2028 II.

OBITUARY. f MRS DAVID J OSES, OLD COI-IVYN. I We regret to announce the death of Mrs David Jones wife of Mr David Jones, one of the managing directors of the Eluer Deuipstei Co., Liverpool, of 21, Esplanade, Waterloo, Liverpool, which occurred on ,lie i-II-Et-, her summer residence, Wyimstay,. Old ( olwyn. Deceased was the daughter of Captau) thorny Roberts, of Trinity-road, Bootle. and Bodlondeb, Old Colwyn Mrs Jones had been in declining health for a considerable time and bore a long illness with patience and fortitude. She came to Old Colwyn from her Liverpool residence lust summer, and in the interval had been for the rrost part confined to her room. Mrs Jones possessed all the social qualities that go to make u universal favourite, and her death is keenly felt bv her relatives as also by the numberless friends and acquaintances to whom she had endeired herself. She came of a family of wide and influential connections, and the many ex- pressions of condolence and messages of sympathy whidl marked her decease afforded some evidence of the regard in which she was personally held. Tite interment took place on Friday afternoon in St. Ague: Cemetery, Conway, whither the remains were conveyed by road from Old Colwyn, where the first portion of the funeral service had been conducted bv the Rev. W illiam Henry, of Waterloo, Liverpool. The funeral cortege was largely and representatively attended. The Vicar of Conway (Rev. J. W. Roberts) and the Rev. William Henry officiated at the graveside. The ciiitif uiooruars wece: Mr David Jones (husband), Miss Mary and Master Tom Jones (children), the Misses Nellie, Grace, and Florence Roberts (sisters), Mr Owen and Mr John Jones (brothers-in-law), Mr David Hughes and Dr. Hugh Jones (cousins). Amongst the general public were: Mr John Craig and Mr William Dempster (directors of the Elder Dempster Company) Mr Charles Farrer, Liverpool: Mr William Warriner, Liverpool; and Mr I)ui-id Jones, Coilxvay. The following amongst others sent wreaths:— Tho husband and children of the deceased; the listers of the deceased, the Misses Nellie, Grace and Florence Roberts; Mr and Mrs Hughes, Prestatyn; Nurse Ida Mead; the maids .of Water- loo, Wynnstay and Bodlondeb; the directors of the Elder Dempster Company the London-Liver- pool and Cardiff staffs of the Elder Drmpster Company; Mr and Mrs John Craig: Mr and Mrs William Dempster; Mr and Mrs Shanock; Mr alld Mrs Farrer; Mr and Mrs Ernest Cooke; Mr and Mrs John Esplen, Waterloo; Mr and Mrs Lloyd Williams, Liverpool; Mr Hogan, Cardiff; Mr and Mrs Pieton Hughes-Jones, London; Mrs Webster and daughter; the Misses Hulme, Old Coh yn Mrs Stephenson and family, Old Col- wyn; Mr and Mrs George Rollo, Waterloo Mr Malcolm and Miss Rollo, of Blundelleands Li ver- pool; Captain and Mrs Thompson, Li verpool Mr and Mrs McNeill.. Messrs Allen and Sons, Station-road, Cohvyn Bay, and Mr Joseph Williams, Conway, carried cut the funeral arrai)geraente,

NEWS IN BRIEF. The parents of Private D. Ames, 1-oth Bat- talion Itoyal Welsh Fusiliers, who reside at Holywell, have been notified of his death in the Floriana Hospital at Malta. The housing scheme of the Wrexham Town Council ha-s received another setback by a re- fusal of the Local Government Board to sanc- tion the neocssary loan. The death is announced of Mr Daniel Edwards, of Morriston, near (Swansea, one of the pioneers of the Welsh tinplate trade. He was 80 years of age. MI-6 Mary Burke, an inmate of the Festiniojf Union Workhouse, celebrated her 102nd birthday on Christmas Day. She i6 now confined to her bed, but her faculties are unimpaired. Sir John Simon, the Home Secretary, has in- vited Mr Ernest Craig M.P., to act as assessor for Wales under Lord Derby's scheme, and he has accepted the office, which is honorary. Sir Sam Hughes, Canadian Minister of Militia is having a census taken of the women available as stenographers, clerks, and accountants to fill the places in the Militia Department occupied by men qualified for military service. The first Y.M.C.A. building's to bo estab- lished in Montgomeryshire were opened last week at Newtown, tHe administrative centre of the 7th Royal Welsh Fusiliers and the Welsh Horse. Mr Ellis W. Wilkin, the supervising recruiting officer for Denbigh Jure, has resigned, and Capt. J. Ba-gnafl Bury, 4t.h Battalion R.W.F., has been appointed in hi, place, with headquarters at Wrexham. Mr T. A. Acton, solicitor, Wrexham, has been appointed military representative under Lord Derby's scheme for the are-a of the Wren ham rural district, and Mr H. Croom-Johnson, Wrexham, has been appointed to act in a similar capacity for the borougn of Wrexham. Miss Edith Emily Hutson, postmistress of Blackball Colliery, near West Hartlepool, and Privut.o L. B. Crabtree, of the Welsh Cyclist Battalion, while returning from a dance early on Tuesday morning were knocked down and killed by a light engine on the Blackball Colliery railway line. His Majesty the King has sanctioned the ap- pointment of Mr T. C. A. Hodeon, a Cambrian Railway official, to the grade of Honorary Serving Brother to the Order of the Hospital of St. Jonn of Jerusalem in England, in recogni- tion of long and valuable services to the ambu- lance department. The chairman of the looal governors (Alderman R. E. Jones) presided at the au- nual distribution of prizes at the Llanberie County School, on Thursday. Mrs Evans Owen distributed the prizes, a.nd an ad(rc wao delivered bv Mr Lvan R. Da vies (becrc- tary of education for the county). The death has occurred at Kew Green, of Mr Arthur Hughes, the well-known artist, who was the last personal link with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. His father, Mr Edward Hughes, was an Oswestry man, who settled early and married in London, where Mr Arthur Hughes, his third and youngest son, was born 83 years ago.

SOLDIERS' LETTERS. The Editor will welcome the receipt of letters from soldiers at the front, which will be published in our columns after having been duly passed by the Censor,

This Christmas festival associated with [ "Peace on earth, good-will towards men," has some its round once more, but like last year we are still in the midst of the horrors of warfare, and our brave sailers and soldiers are fighting with the Allied nations in a righteous cause against a relentless fee. Christmastide therefore has been this year a time of thoughtful meditation and of inter- cession. This spirit deeply imbued the ser- vices in the Churches, and the se'emnity of the occasion was impressed upon the congre- gations by earnest addresses, aaid the reli- gious observances brought the minds of the people to a better realisation of the critical time through which our country is parsing.

BANGOR CATHEDRAL. I IMPRESSIVE ADDRESS BY THE DEAN. At Bangor Cathedral the preacher at the 'morning service on Christmas Day was Arch- deacon Morgan. The music, appropriately festal, included the chorus "For unto us,' 'from the "Me.ss.iah. At the evening ser- v ice tho choir sang several carols. "BE STRONG, FEAR NOT." I The Dean of Bangor, preaching on Sunday morning, took as his text Isaiah 3d 3. "Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm, the feecce knees. Say to them that. are of a fearful heart, Be strong, iear not. He said that, like the Psalms, the book of the prophet Isaiah seemed as if it had been written on purp ose for their guidance and encourage- ment at this time of war and distress. 'llIe message of the text came to King Hezekiali at one of his moments of weakness. Sen- nacherib, King of Assyria, had invaded the land, and the iving of Judah had been struck with terror. His only thought was how to make peace—even peace at any price. His .mes £ ?.i|gte to the King of Assyria was "That which thou p-uttest en me 1 will bear." The demands of the invader were enormous. How did the- King of Israel meet, them? He took ;a]l the money from the ten.ple, and also tore off the gold from its doors and pillars. It was a strange act on the part of a man who on the whole was a good king. It did not fruce'ced. Nemesis ever dogs the footsteps of sacrilege. Senaiaeherib took the gold, but all th-o same came up against Jerusalem ana be- sieged it. Stirred up by the Divine Me.-sage, Hezekiah Meat up again to the temple, not, this time, to rob it of its gold, but to pray to thV. Lord his God. And in Hie. own way :GHfl answered his prayer. Sennacherib and his mighty host returned to their owai coun- try with shame of face. The message of the prophet came to them with peculiar force at the present national crisis. They needed the firm grip of the strong hand which would not let go the task they had undertaken until it was accom- plished; they needed the stiffened unbsnd- iaig knees wnieh would not give way either in selfish ease or in compromise: they needed the brave heart which feared no hard clil ty, no disccnifort, no self-denial. The Ministers of the King had recently made an appeal to the nation to strengthen their military forces. Every eligible ma.n had been personally in- vited to attest; and they were HlIxiouglV waiting to know the resit,11. The safety of their homes, their country, and their reli- giou was in the balance. If voluntary ser- vice failed compu'sive was the only alterna- tive. And let, tliem not forget, another aspect of the question- Wau adequate military strength all that was required? Would they be satisfied even if the required number of men were forthcoming-, and if their factories poured out as much munitions as they were asked to do? As Christian men and women, they knew it—whether they laid J it, to heart or net—the co-operation of spiri- tual forces must be Fought. They must look higher than the arm of neeh and the steel weapon: it is ever true, "Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, sail it the Lord of ihoists.neaice it wa3 (hat their epirit-Lial rulere were now calling upon them to rally these powerful spirit ual forces. The Christian Church had been asked to kneel down in prayer at ii-40 throne of Grace, and on Sunday next millions throughout the length and breadth of the lajitl would be interceding for their King and country and for their Ailies; for those in command on land or sea; for their sailors and soldier*, for the sick and wounded, and for tno fcpeedy restoration of a. ju;t a.nd lasting peace. The Bishop, in his pastoral letter, had reminded them that it was iwi enough that the cause for which they were lighting w'as righteous; they themselves must also be righteous. The history of Israel furnished a striking example of a righ-t sous cause being for a time defeated by the un- righteousness of man. Smali and unfortified a-a the city of Ai was Israel couid not conquer it. Why? There was sin in the camp. Aehan had stolen treasures dedicated- to God, and not until that sin had been purged away did the armies of Israel-march to victory. Wag it possible that the success of our Forces to-day was delayed, by some national and personal The effect of sin, wherever f-oiiiiti, was to weaken hanci* ami knees, and to make hearts faint. A guilty conreienee ever makcs man a coward. It waj well, there- fore, that they were invited to spend Friday as a day of penitence. Let there be strict self- examijiation, a thorough overhauling of con- science. Then, with cleansed and ptirili 2(1 hearts, they would come to the presence of God on Sun- day to plead for protection, sucores and victory, for the sake of the merits of the death of the Cross.

ST. JAMES' CHURCH. I A few days before Christmas day an address to communicants was delivered in St. Jaiiieo" Church, by Canon Ragg, at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. On Christmas Day the services at St. James' commenced with the Holy Communion at 7 a.m. and at 8 a.m. (choral). At 11 a.m. the sermon I was preached by the Rev. E. Lumley. The anthem, "There were Shepherds, was rendered ?ery creditably by the choir. At 6.30 p.m.. carols were sung. The collections all day were for the Innrm?ry amI the Nursing Institute. The total amounted to £ 4 12s 6d. The Church Avas decorated by Miss Packc, Miss Lily Jones, Misa Hughes (Bodnant), Mies A. C. Griffiths, Mrs J. D. Toiies, Misses Hugh Hughes, Messrs Wynne and Snelling. Flowers and evergreens were received from Lord Penrhyn, Sir Tnoma? Marshal. C.B., Mrs E. J. Uoyd, Mrs Davies (The Cottage). Mrs Jones (Pendyffryn), Mu Glynn WiUiu,m? and Miss A. E. Gr;?ittifs.

I THE CATHEDRAL (WELSH). I The Cathedral I Welsh) services commenced with Matins and Holy Communion at 9.30. The ser- vice was taken by the Vicar. At theevcliiilg ,ser- 6 p.m., the barmen was preached by the Rev. E. Lumley, blt the usual carols were not sung oWing to the a.b?cnce of m?ny of the mem- bers of the. choir. On S.mday evening a <?a?. c0mpœcd by Mr R. Daron Jones, was sung. The Vic?r, in the course of his remarks, expressed h? misgiv ings, xs to whcdier the young people of the present generation rp?H.cd th? rt'Hgiouf; Significance of Christmas, and urged parents not to allow the Festival of Nativity to œcome a nr,2. for ii-,tltilger?(-.e in thcatieo and picturedromesi and concerts.

t ST. MARY'S CHURCH. I On Christmas morning (here were celebrations of fluly ('Oil] III till ioii. Nliel,l) lkng'il-lj, a,l)(I at til-e FeIVICe the choir san.g Handel's chorus, "For unto us." The ioiit Eigilsi, a-tid Welsh choirs rendered Ui? music st t?? evening Welsli clio;i-s tije i)ii?si(t the e%t--iiing

I LLVSFAEN. Llysfaen is among the places where the old Welsh custom of holding a service at an early hour on Christmas morning is still kept up. In Welsh, such a serv ice is called" PJygam" lill North Wales), and" Pylgain" (iu South Wales). The most usual form in old Welsh is the latter (writes a correspondent), and it is considered to be from the Latin "puHicantu?," that ib, a cock's crow, and, therefore? the time of day when the cock crows. I?tysfacn Parish Church this year again was full of devout worshippers at s ix o'cio< k on Christmas morning. It is supposed that tho "Plygain" was general all over Wales at one time, but that it gradually becariie disorderly, and attended only by young people. Thofe days are now gone, and the "Plygair," when it is kept, as at Llysfaen, is attended by the most de- vout in the parish, and is throughout a solemn and inspiring service. The feature of the "Ply- gain" of course is carol-singing; and there is a special appropriativenc-ss in devoting the earliest hours of the morning to singing carols, as the first carol over the meadows of Bethlehem was I so sung, and as all the associations of the Great I Birth are associations of the morning. Fifteen carols were sung in the "Plygain" at Llysfaen this year. Kind friends from outside came to help, but most of the work was of course borne by the choir of the Church and by the Church oni dren's choir, under the conductorship of Mr Gwilym S'foidkes and he Rector. It is no small matter to iiid a. choir of children, numbering over fifty, to sing so beautifully as these children did on this occasion. The Rector gave a short ad- dress; and Mr Hughes, of Henllys, presided at the organ. The church was beautifully decorated by the ladies of the congregation. A collection was made in this early service towards the S.P.G. In the English Communion service, at 11 o'clock, two English carols were sung by a party from the choir. About forty communicated, and a good it collection was made towards the Belgian Relief I fund*

HOLYHEAD. The services in the Holyhead Churches on Christmas Day were all well attended. There were celebrations of Holy Coni- nnunion at 7, b, 10 and 11 a.m. At S. Ovhù; there was evensong carols and t^ej/nion iaU 6 p.m, and at S. Seiriol's, evensong and organ recital by Mr Brad wen Jones. The organists at S. Cybi and S. El bod's were Misses Gregson and Katie Morgan Joixv. All the churches were deco- rated by willing friends. Under the super- vision of the Rev. W. Ga ,el Jones. B.A., S. Seiriol's decorated by Mr Ho,1 den, head gardener, Soldier's Point; Miss Adeane's two gardeners; M.s Gladys Hughes, Miss A. Ayers, Miss Roberts. Mise Owen and Mrs Oarel Jon<v. S. Cybi's was decorated by Miss Adeane's gardeners from Lla-nfawr, Miss Muriel Tywyn Jones, Mr and Mrs Owen Wil- liams. Materials were also given by the Misses JohnLOn. Bryn Marchog. This was under the direction of the Rev. R. Tywyn Jones. S. Eibod's was decorated by Mrs and Miss Williams, Brynteg, and Mij?s Roberts, Eirlys. This was superintended by the Rev. Evan Thomas, L.D. The aecorators at St. Cvbïs and St. Seiriol's were Mrs Edwin Jones and Mrs B. Thomas, Poath- y-felin, respectively. Materials in abundance were supplied by Lady Sheffield, Miss Adeane and Mrli Pearson, and also Commander Hol- land, through Mrs Dodd. Brynmor. for all the churches. The officiating clergy were the vicar and curates.

CARNARVON. I The services at all the Churches on Christmas Day were well attended, and the music was suit- able to the joyous feast. At, Christ Church there were three celebrations of the Holy Communion, the Jii-F. being at. 7 a.m. The a-ntnem was "And t-ho Glory of tho Lord" from the "Messiah," Miss Hamer being the organist. In the congregation were the Engineers now billeted in the town, a number of wnom have joined the cliou. St. David's services were lie Id as follow:— 8, Holy Communion, 10.30, service; I), ser- vice antf carets. The cantata,, "Coming of Emanuel'" (Dave), was rendered by the choir. Ca.pt. Grithth delivered appropriate ad- dresses at the two latter services. Mr R. Roberts, Pool-street, conducted th^ singing, the organists being Miss Richards, Church- street, and Lance-corporal' E. C. Jones. Llanbeblig.—Services were held at 7, Holy Communion; 10 and 6, carols were sung. The Rev. T. A. Morgan-Jones took the services. Mr E. Griffith, Brae^ii?, conducted the singing, and Mi's Nicholas' 'liow.er Hou,>e, presided at tho organ. St. Mary's.—Services were held as under: 8.30, Holy Communion; 10, Iloiy Cewnmunion (choral); 6, service and carols. The Rev. Walter Jones, took the services. Miis Lena Jones, Market-street, presided at the organ.

GLANOGWEN. I In epite of the war and it, saddening eflec-ts, Christmastide was observed much in the usual ,v,ay here. Many of the men how serving with the colours came home on Christmas leave, and were reinforced by many munition workers from the North ol England and South Wales. On Christmas Day the services at Glanogwen Church were of a bi-ight ijid joyouj. cnarat-ter. There were two celebrations ol the Holy Communion at 8 and 10 o'clock, at Ca.non Davies and Canon Jones ofhcMted. At evensong M. iargo j number of carols were b8ng. and a. short address wa?given by the Vicar. On the Sunday follow- ing We cam!;> were repeated at thf evening ser-j vice to a crowded congregation. The Vicar read the Bishop's pastoral, and announced that the following .)un(1ay would be a day of solemn ill-I tercc-cion a.nd that a special service of preparation would be held on Friday at 6.3C.

LLANDDONA I On Christmas Day Holy Communion was administered at 8 and 10, and at 6 in the evening carols were sur.g after the service by the choir and the eLi.oren's party. Misses Mary Williams, Elizaibc-th Grace Owenw, Lizzie Mary Davies, Minnie Roberts, and Mrs Pritehard Jones, who also hoi pod at the organ. Carols were also suing by the con- gregation. The anthem, "Ac vr oedd vu y w,lM! houno" (loan Rhagfyr, Dolgelley), wa,, rendered by the united choir, and a party in cliarge of Mr Evan Williams, Tre rgof, sang one of their numerous selections. The Rev. B. Thomas delivered some short and useful comments between the numerous items, and the congregation departed amid the strains of the recessional "Dan dy fen- dith.

PORTMADOC. I The services -rle1dot\' Chmtmos Day tut St- John's Church were well attended, amongst the congregation being Major C. E. Brecce. Lieuten- ant John Hammond, Lieutenant G. Ed wards, and Sergeant, E. Vanghan Humphreys. Holy Communion was administered in the earlier part of the morning, which was followed by Welsh services and English ierviees, all fully choral, Miss L. II. Humphreys presiding att. the organ. The Revs. J. E. Williams (vicar).. H. Hughes and J. Williams (curates) oiffciated. Dr. Green reading the lessons at the English services. In the after- noon t-here. vi-as a special service for children, and at the evening service carols were sung, Mr Cartwright being tho -organist. Services were aleo held at Tremadoc Church, the Rev. R. HugbelS officiating, MLsg Lizzie H. Humphreys be- ing the organist.

AMLWCH. I The services at the Parish and Port. Churches on Christmas Day were attended by unusually large congregations. At eight a. m. there was a celebration of Holv Communion, and also at the eleven a.m. English service. At. the Welsh service in the evening several carols were sung. The services at the Parish Church were intoned bv the Rev. W. O. Williams, and the Vicar preached. Simila r senices were held at the Port Church. The Parish Church was decorated by Miss Prichard, The Vicarage; Miss Paynter, Bryntirion, the Misses Paynter, Tyddyndai; and Miss Williamson, Glanllyn. The Port Church was decorated by Ills Williams, Bryn Ma.dyn, The Vicar read the Bishop's pastoral letter on the Sunday following, and announced that servi ces of intercession and hllmilitioil would be held to. day (Friday) and on Saturday and Sunday.

TALSARNAU. I On Christmas Day there was a celebration On C h i- of the Holy Communion in the Parish Church. Llanfihahgel-v-Traethau, at 8!30 a.m., and services and sermon at 10 a.m. and 6 p.in.; at Talsaraau Church at 10, 11 and 6; and at, Llandecwyn at 2. Llanfihangel Church was oeautifu,!lv decorated by Mrs R. Jones- Morris, the Misses Janet and Fiances Jones- Morris, Mis, Grace Owen, Miss Fanny Owen, Miss Gracie West, Miss L'oyd, Miss Grif- fiths and Master Teddie Lloyd; and Talsara- au Church by Mr Bowering, of Glyn Gar- dens. The following carols were sung in Llanfihangel Church :Rwy'u hoff o enw'r Iesu," "Aed y per newyodion," "Pa hyd, pa 'hyd disgwyiiwn Y tir, ncfo.l," "Cydig-an y Doethioii," under the leadership of Mr John Griffiths, of Tanlorhesgan. Mr R. Jonos- Morriii presided at the organ throughout the day. The officiating clergy were the Rev. D. T. Hughes, rector, and the Rev. R. Jones, M.A., curate.

CRICCIETH. All the servics# in Criccieth on Chridmae Dit)' were held in the Parish Church, which was dcceratcd with koily and evergreens. There were two celehratiocs of Holy Com- munion. The cclebrajit was the Archdeacon, who all-uded to Mr Bennett. Rees, who had failcm in batte Carols were sung at the m?riuKg tutd cv?jung Krvicco. Thf f.?j'T'M'?s ton on Sunday ?<*1? similar in festive cba.r- M;ft.r toih??MiChrL-'t?aMDay. The??ecial to t b t)6.o oii preacher at. the evening service was the Rev. Hugh Williams, Pent.refelln.

I BEAUMARIS. At Beaumaris Christmas morning was ushered in.by a peal on the bells of the Parish Church. Services were held throughout the day, com- mencing with a celebration of the Holy Com- munion at seven a.m. -At the English service the anthem "The Light hath shined" was sung, as well as several carols-in one of which a tenor solo was effectively sung by the Rev. T. Wood- in gs, B.A.

I DOLGELLEY. There were celebrations of Holy Commun- ion at the Parish Church at 8, 9.45 (Welsh), and 11.15 a.m. (English). At the latter ser- vice, ??!ti<-h .w<? fully choral, fhe anthem Tice, "And the glory of the Lord" (Simper). waa Carols were sung at the Welsh service in the evening, and the Rev. J. Lloyd, rector, preached. The church was decorated.

PENRH YNDEUDRAETH. The Rev. J. Hughes, vicar, officiated at the ser- vices held in Holy Trinity Church, on Christmas Day. Several carols were sung at the evening service.

I SERVIAN RELIEF FUND. I Mr Charles Bancroft, of the Royal Hotel, Capel Curig, liae generously contributed, through I Mr H. C. Vincent, the sum of 910 to the S?rvifm Jtelief Fund*

A PEACEFUL HOLIDAY IN I NORTH W AI-ES. Christmastide, the season of childhood and the simple joys of home, wore a. different aspect from that which it presented in the more fortunate da.ys of yore. We could only hope for, but we could not talk of "Peace and goodwill towards mem." The face of the earth has been changed by a devastating war which has gone far to obliterate from our minds the old ideas of fraternity and kindlineas, and has planted in their stead— only temporarily, we hope--enmity, fiereo- ness, and discolu. When so many of our Vith and kin were enduring the direst hardships, spending anxious days exposed to all the in- clemency of the weather, it was difficult, to be merry. Many a home in North Wales is now mourning a brave father or son, while others are full of apprehension as to what the future will bring them. But the domi- nant note was not one of sorrow, but of hope- fulness, knowing that our cause is just and must triumph. There were no signs of de- pression, but the demeanour of the people has been serious. Inspired by the practkaJ example of Royalty, there was a desire that the children should feel some of the gladnetu of the Christmas festivities; and praiseworthy and wholly successful efforts were also made to bring joy to the wounded soldiers in the mili- tary hospitals in the district. Khaki was the predominant colour in the crowds which perambulated the streets on Christmas eve. Especially was this the case at Bangor, Carnarvon and Holyhead, where one had a good idea of the response made by the three towni3 to the call of duty. A cheery spirit of optimism characterised the soldiers, a spirit which was in consonance with the festival and which, helped to chase away, if only temporarily, the spectre of war. The weather on Christmas Day was fortu- nately delightful, the air being alear and bright sunshine prevailed throughout the day. Boxing Day, however, brought wish it one of the severest gales experienced on the North Wales coast for some time, and the wise spent the day indoors by the lireside. The railway traffic during the three days preceding Christmas was exceptionally heavy, but 113 far as can bo gathered there wTas a diminution in the number of letters posted and an increase in the paroel traffic, especi- ally for the troops in France.

BANGOR. I Following upon the raw dull weather which ushered in the holidays, the bright conditions ?I )e. br ],,(, h t coii d i'tlo ls which prevailed on Christmas Day acted as a wclcome tonic and changed depression into op- timism. An unusually large number of local soldiers from the various training centres were given Christmas leave, and a more jovial crowd of "Tommies" it. would be difficult to lind. Khaki wiifli the predominant colour at all the places of amusement. The holidays were very quietly spent and the streets were practically deserted, especially on Boxing Day, when a terrific gale raged throughout- the day, necessitating a curtail- ment of the ferry traffic between Bangor and Anglesey. Unfortunately, the weather had the eiiecfc of completely spoiling what would have been an interesting football match between the unbeaten Welsh (Carnarvon) Royal Garrison Ar- tillery from Bedford and a local team. A smail crowd braved the elements, and saw the "G un- nen," add another win to their long record of successes. The wet and blustering weather had the effect of crowding the places of amusement, the County Theatre, where the English Opera Company are appearing, and the Palace a.nd Pic- tured romo having packed audiences at each per- forma.nce. The withdrawal of cheap ticket facili- ties had the effect of reducing the outgoing holi- day traffic to the minimum. AT THE WOR-KHOCSE. I Christmas Day was very happily spent at the Workhouse. The building, by means of ever- greens, was given quite a. festive appearance. Gifts were received from the following": 1 ne Mayor and Mrs R. J. Williams, Rev. W. Morgan and Mrs Morgan, Dr. Ilelsby, Mr and Mrs Lloyd Edwards, the Brabazon Society, Mr J. O. Wil- liame (Upper Bangor), Mr W. Williams (baker). Mr Thos. Edwards, and Mr O. Hughes, Liwyn- edd. The dinner, the main feature of the day, consisted of roast pork. roaet beef, boiled beef, vegetables, and an ample supply of plum-pudding. Afterwards oranges, apples, tea. sugar, tobacco, sweet-, and nrince pies were distributed among the inmates. A vote of sympathy was passed ii- tii Mr Thomas Ed wards, who. owing to illness, was absent from this gathering for the lirst time for the last 25 years. The motion was proposed by the Rev. W. Morgan (the chairman of the Board of Gtiarct i i i i LNIi: W. 11. litlwartls (sou of Ivlr Thomas Edwards) suitably acknowledged the vote. Tea was much appreciated, amongst the delica- cies being cakes, mincepies and jam pastries. Tho day terminated with a miscellaneous concert, the inmates sustaining the programme.

ROUND THE HOSPITALS. I CHEERING THE PATIENTS. I At the various hospitals ia the district the dayI was celebrated by the provision of the usud good I cheer, and gifts were distributed to the inmates. BODLONDEB RED CROSS HOSPITAL. I The wounded soldiers at this hospital were sumptuously entertained. The festivities com- menced on December 23rd. when an entertain- ment was given at the George Hotel, by Sir Thomas and Lady Neave and Mr and Mrs Rich. mond Brown, and a conjuror also took part. At the close of the entertainment each soldier re- ceived a gift. On Christmas Eve the Menai Bridge Band, conducted by Mr G. W. Senogles, played selections in the dining hall. The wards were gaily decorated on Christmas Day, when the inmates spent a delightful time. Ladv Magdalen Williams-Bulkeley and Miss Davies, Treborth, arranged for a conjuror to give an entertainment, in the evening. Gifts were dis- tributed to all the staff and patients, Mr J. W. Jones, Menai Bridge, figuring as the genial "Father Christmas." The day's festivities ended with an impromptu dance in which some of the patients joined with no little enthusiasm, consider. ing their infirmities. On Boxing night the patients attended a performance at the Picture- drome, Bangor, and on the following night Miss Cameron and a party from Beaumaris gave a concert, which was much appreciated, in the men's dining hall. MILITARY HOSPITAL I The cheery atmosphere of Christmas pervaded the tiecorated wards of the Military Hospital at Glanadda, where the patients had a gay time during the holidays. The matron (Miss Wil- shaw) entertained the patients to tea on Christ- mas Eve, and this was followed by a'n im- promptu concert, which was keenly appreciated by the men. On Christmas Day the usual fare was suppler mented by seasonable dainties, and in the even- ing a concert, arranged by the Bangor Young Men's Christian Association, was given, with Mr T. F. Dorgie as chairman. Mr Ivor Tho- | mas was the accompanist. Needless to say the audience were not slow in showing their appre- ciation of the various items, which were as fol- lows Pianoforte solo, Mr Ivor Thomas; glee, March of the Hegiment" Ladies Choir: song, Drake's Drum." Mr A. Prytherch; song, There' s a Land, Miss L. Simons: comic song, W earing of the Green" (war version), Mr H. I T. Jones: song, Killarney," AIrs Lowe; song, Bauer ein Gwlad," Mr Thomas Thomas, of the London Welsh; glee, "The Lord is my Shepherd," Ladies' Clioir: song. StoJle Cracker John," Mr A. Prytherch: comic song "Jimmy Law," Mr H. T. Jones; song "Should he Up- braid," Mrs Lowe; song, Good Company." Mr Thomas Thomas; glee, "Alice, where art thou. Ladies' Choir. ^CARNARVONSHIRE AND ANGLESEY I INFIRMARY. No efforts were spared to make Christmas a memorable day to the inmates of the Carnarvon- shire and Anglesey Infirmary. Tho entrance hall was prettily decorated with holly. nergrH-ns, Chinese lanterns, and flowers on Christmas Eve. Tho matron (Mrs Wolfe) and nursing staff assembled there at midnight, and sang carols to the patients, the strains of which reaehedEvery ward in the building. On Christmas morning each patient was greeted with a useful gift. kindly provided by Miss Bickersteth, Craigydon. Later in the day the usual good cheer" came on in the form of roast turkey, plum pudding, fruit, etc. The patients were entertained in the entrance hall, in which the br.ight fire and Jights cast a picturesque glow over the faces of all assembled, and lit up the surroundings, making one fancy almost, that one had been suddenly transported into Fairyland. Musio and song flowed cheerfully all the day through. The members of the medical staff visited the institution from time to time to wish everybody "a happy Christmas." Thanks are due to Miss Williams, Llanwen- •llwyfo Rectory, Amlwch, and Miss Mary Row- land-Jones Bangor, for musical selections; to Nurse Wroth for pianoforte solos; to Miss Enid Rowland-Jones and Nurse Rowlands for songs: and to Mr Allan Rowland-Jones for many gramo- phone selections. Thanks are also due to the following, who so kindly subscribed to the pro- vision of the Christmas good cheer:—Mr J. R. Davies, Ceris; Miss Davies, Treborth; Mr Thorn- ton Jones, Dr E. J. Lloyd, Mrs Trench, Rev J. D. Jones, Mr Bayne, Mrs M. A. Hughes, Misses Hughes, Tanyfynwent; Mr Matthews, Dr. E. O. Price, Mr Ivor Pryce, Mrs Thomas, Dean-street. A toy grocer's shop was sent by the scholars of the County School and was much enjoyed by the little ones in the children's ward. I PENHESGYN OPEN-AIR HOME. I I The patients and staff of the institution were entertained on Christmas afternoon by Mr Clarke, conjuror and ventriloquist. Several friends were invited, and a happy afternoon was spent. After the performance, Miss Davies, Tre- borth, distributed presents among the patients and staff, and the llev. T. C. Williams delivered a brief address, suitable to the occasion. Presents were also given by Lady Hughes-Hunter, Plas Coch Mrs Davies, Treborth; Miss Ruth Verney, Rhianva; Miss Bickersteth, Craig-y-Don: and Miss Taylor, Trefenai. After a vote of thanks had been passed by the children, they sang several carols. The entertainment concluded by the sing- ing of "God Save the King."

I I The greatest WINTER SALE I inWARTSKI'S History. I "A Sale at Wartaki. has come to have a meaning of its own-for every body goes to a Sale at Wartski's. In this Winter bale, it has been decided t to make it-in spite of prodigicus advance of Values-the most compre-  t hensive in the trading annals of the house: embracing everything-what-  ? ever its increased cost to-day-for absolute and quick clearanc. To ? take the fullest advanta ge Sale Prices is to practise  true economy for To-morrow, because in every pha:: of prod:ucticn  ? ? materials have risen enormously in cost, and moreover must  ? inevitably rise still higher in the future. Fortunately we bold  an immense stock. Monday, Jany. 3, and Throughout the Month. By Bangor Cathedral.

CRICCIETH. The boisterous and uncongenial weather which prevailed the greater lio-rtion of last week considerably inoderat-ed towards Satur- day morning. Christmas Day wat- quite warm and bright, and the chang-e was thoroughly appreciated a.nd taken advantage of 'by many of the townspeople and their holiday friends in seeking outdoor relaxation. For the afternoon there was a foollbill match be- t we-e-n the local "Carry On's" and a team from Pwllheli. Mr Evan Humphreys wi.3 the rc- feree, and Mr Robert Thomas and Mr Walter Rowley linesnien. Tho homesters won by seven goals to one. The sound of the. whistle onc-a more in Stanley Park brought very vividly to mind the grim and terrible exper- iencerj through which the "Boys of the Old Brigade" have passed sinee last we witnessed them engaged in frierdW combat in the old enclosure. The boys of the old eleven at prc- sent on active service include: Capt a ins H. P. Williams, Hywel Williams; Lieutenants A. McKerrow, Hywel E. Jcneii, Gwalym Lloyd Grporgc. and \V. J. Williams; Sergt. Sam. Owen, Corporal Jack Burnell, and Privates W. Jones, and Johnnie Adacns, and lastly. but yet uppermost in the memory, is the late Private Bennett Rees, whose lightning swift- ness at inside right will, alas, no more be witnessed. Sunday again was line, but early on Monday morning the wand began to rise, and eventually a terrific storm was reigning, and did not abate until the evening was advanced. The mountainous waves fiercely dashing over the esplanade, the boiling surf surrounding the pier and breaking in fury against the Castle rock, attracted much at- tention. A barrel of oil and several planks, presumably parts of a wrecked veo-ef, were washed ashore. Fortunately there was no damage to property in the t-own beyond a few trivial misnaps.

CARNARVON. I The holiday was spent in a quiet fashion. There was a lnrge influx of soldiers home on leave, many of theni from the front. The arrangements for entertaining the Royal Engineers stationed in the town were excellent. The officers organised a dinner for the men at. the Drill Hall, and in the afternoon played, a football match in aid of the local Y.M.C.A., when the <»oidiers beat a town team by 5—0. On Sunday night the Guild Hall was filled with a most appreciative audience, who were delighted with the concert prepared for them. Major Han- iner, commanding the 3rd Line Welsh Division R.E.. pre-ided, the Mayor of Carnarvon (Mr Chae. A. Jones) being also on the platform. Mr Isaac Edwards, chairman of the local Y.M.C.A., con- ducted. After hymn singing, which Mr William Jones, Crugan led, -,oyigs were given by Mi:s Emily Davies. Mioa Priscilla Ellis. Mr Tonn T.Ir>y< and Corporal Waicb., Miss Alice Jones also gave two pianoforte solos. It should be mentioned that. Miss Jones had promised tc give two solos, but the applause was so insistent that in the end the audience was not satisfied with less than fhe The Cymric Quartette sang some choice selections from a cantata. Mr W. R. Davies, Seg'ontium-terrace, acted as accompani st. Major Hanmer, in his ad- dress, spoke cf the appreciation of the troops of the efforts of the townspeople to suitably cnter- tain them, and urged the men present to make it. known to their corai«dos the excellent programme provided Sunday after Sunday. At the Workhouse the inmates were entertained in a sumptuous manner. Mr lilien, of the Royal Hotel, as is hij usual custom, entertained the children and staff of St. Mark's Home to tea on Christinas Day. After- wards presents were distributed among the child- ren from a Christmas tree, and music and dancing took place. The Belgian children staying in town were invited to the gathering.

BEAUMARIS. I There w ;is no marked exuberance shown at Beaumaris in the festivities of Yuletide. but most people did their best to put aside, as far as pos- sible, if only for a short time, the gloomy shadow of the war, and to make the season as cheerful as circumstances would permit. Many homes were br ii; btc-iied by the return oil leave of dear ones, who have been for months in the firing line.

TWO NEW ROYAL WELSH BATTALIONS. 1- SPECIAL UNIT FOR FARMERS' SONS. I Two new battalions of the Royal Welsh Fusil- iers are, it is understood, now officially sanctioned by the War Office. They are the 21st Battalion, under the command of Colonel T. A. Wynne Ed- wards, and the 22nd Battalion, under the com- mand of Colonel Lloyd Evans, of Broom Hall. Both battalions belong- to the 14th Reserve Infan- try Brigade, of whicn Brigadier General Owen Tnomas is the commanding ofiicer. Colonel Lioxd Evans is making a special appeal iu Gwynedd tor farmers' sons and la-riii labour- ers, and it is hoped that this battalion will be mostly made up of men engaged in agricult-ural pursuits. Each of these battalions wall have a platoon or a company specially set apart for eli- gible young men who will traiu with a view to qualifying tor commissions. It is now the rule—and the rule is strictly enforced that commissions are not to be given to men who have had no military experience, or are not serving in the rank s. NEW R.A.M.C. COMPANY. I CLERGY AND AMBULANCE WORK. It has been felt for some time past that work at the front. should be found for the younger clcrgv and ministers "in 'Wales, and the students at the Welsh theological colleger, who, in view of their vocation. had a conscientious objection to joining the fighting ranks. A conference of the North Wake religious leaders was held a little while ago at Chester, on this subject, the meeting being presided over by Brigadier-General Owen Thomas. Representations were made at the conference a, to the desirability of a Royal Army Medical Corps unit being formed and attached to the Weteh Army Division. General" Thomas ap- proached the War Office On the matter, and it is now understood that sanction has been given for the formation of a R.A.M.C. company of-240 men. This will be immediately recruited, and will re- ceive its initial training at Kinmcl Park. It ia further understood that applications for meiliber- ship will only be received from students at the theological colleger, and from clergymen and ministers of military age. A Jarge number of applications for enlistment- in such a. corps have already been received by the military authorities from the younger clergy and ministers of the Principality, and from the theological students in training at the University and theological col- leges. Probably the new company, will, tihere-

LLANERCHYMEDD WORKHOUSB (To the Editor.; Sir.—In an account of a meeting of the Ban- gor and Beaumaris Guardians, last week, which appeared in the North Wales Chronicle, ia recorded a statement, under the heading Work- house Amalgamation," which is. misleading to the public, and which I shall feel obliged if you will allow me to correct. The matter under discussion related to the Anglesev Union, and according to remarks made by Mr C!,a(iwi(-k and Mr W. R. Jones. Beaumaris, the public can only; come to the conclusion that there are onlv four inmates in the workhouse, and that there are six officials to look after them. The facts are as follows and were so at the time the above remarks wers made. There are 17 inmates in tho workhouse, ail being either feeble-minded or helpless, and three children under three years, who were brought in without their mother. There are two officers (master and matron) and a general servant to look after them. I thiilk that the above correct statement proves that there is arnplo work for the three officials. I may also add that there have been as many as 40 inmates in the house, including the sick', and only the same number of officials, but amongst the 40 there were a few able to do some woi-k.- Y ours. etc., CONSTANT READKR.

POSTMEN AND CHRISTMAS BOXES. (To the Editor). Sir, Will YOll allow me a. small space in thfg week's Chronicle to call the attention of its readers to this matter? I am sorry to hear that the Bangor postmen are going round soliciting Christmas boxes again this year. There have been 50 many calls upon one to contribute towards so many deserving causes that I had hoped the Bangor postmen would have seen the propriety of dropping this objectionable old custom. Why should postmen more than any other class of public servants solicit these gifts'' Are the assist- ants who sell the stamps and postal orders, etc., not servants of the public quite as much as the postmen? Yet, they do not solicit any Christmas boxes. I can imagine the reader saying that the indoor postal staff are not called upon to brave the elements, and tramp the streets at all times of the day and night, and in all weathers. Wet!. wdiac about the police, special police, and local Volunteers, are they not servants of the public, serving quite as faithfully as the postmen? Yet, who ever heard of them organising a canvass for Christmas boxes for themselves? If any member of the public wishes to continue giving his servant, the postman, or post- woman a Christmas gift, let him give it in the same way as he gives it. to the maid or man- servant in his employ. What master or mistress is there who would tolerate their servants ap- proaching them in couples, book in hand, to solicit these gifts? Why should Government offi- cials in uniform be tolerated to call upon us at our places of business and in our houses ta solicit our gifts?—Yours, etc., A BANGOR TRADESMAN.

WELSH FUSILIERS IN HOSPITAL AT MALTA. (To the Editor.) Sir,—I should be much obliged if you would kindly make it known, through the medium ot your paper, that if any friends of the membere of the l-6th Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers (Territorials) wish to send any article in the way, of comforts to the 104 members of the battalion who are now lying in the several hospitals at Malta, and if they care to forward such addressed to me here, I shall be very pleased to undertake the distribution of tl)eiri.-Yours, etc., WILLIAM MORRIS ROBERTS. Sec.-Lieut., R.G.A., R.A. Mess, Malta, December 16th, 1915.

TRAFFIC IN BANGOR STREETS. (To the Editor). Sir,—I have noticed, when in High-street, Baa gor, especially on market, day and 011 Saturdaj evenings, when the traffic is at its height, th< stupidity of persons walking along the street* f They hear drivers of carts, lurries, cabs, etc., shouting, and the bells of cyclists, and the horn< of motor care, but they make no effort to get ouj of the way, consequently the drivers of vehicie4 have to slacken their speed or to stop for sueb persons to get out of their way. Could not the police do something, to assist the drivers ol vehicles by regulating the pedestrian traffic as we [ see it done 111 large towns?— Y ours, etc., OBSERVER.

I BAMK CLERKS PAY- I MOVING APPEAL BY A WIFE. f The following moving appeal appeared iq yesterday's Times in a letter to the Editor:-— Sir, I am the wife of a clerk in a banking institution, and I shall be very much obliged if you will allow me to bring my ease before your readers. My husband's salary is .£275 a year; We have three children, and in ordi- nary times we have been able to make both ends meet and keep up the insurance policy. This year, with the increase in price of all the household articles of food, etc., we can- not, keep up the insurance premium on my husband's life, and we are hard pushed to pay our weekly bills. I know it is the same with other friends of ours. Now, my hus-4 band will not write to you, so I said I should; feeling sure that if the directors read this they will see that their clerks are not treated harshly and will do something to help them. If the husbands won't move, we wives m speak out. It isn't a caive of doing without luxurie.,i-t,hat we have done for N,ears-L)uti it's a case of hardship for the children and worry for the parents, which cau easily be( Lessened with a littje help; and I think it is only justice we are asking for in these hard times. My husband is over military age, and is worked harder than ever while so In a-ii in his office are away on active service, and it is only fair it should be remembered on behalf of those left to do the work.—Yours faith- I fully, I fully, A CLERK S WIFE. London, Dee. 29th-

? December a Month for Bargains I' S AT THE ? I j GOLDEN GOAT, CARNARVON. | S PLEASE CALL TO SEE OUR si 13ARGAIIV D I S P L A y.1 PIERCE & WILLIAMS. X V I

fore, quickly fill up. Further information on tiid matter may be obtained from Brigadier GemeraJ Owen Thomas, Kinmel Park, Abergele, or from Mr F. Llewelyn Jones, cf Mold. It should be pointed out that recruiting for the Royal Army Medical Coi,pi,aiid, indeed, for any oth-er branch of the Army, except infantry— is closed, and that this is a special concession h:f the Woar Office for the Welsh theological studenta and young ministers. Its effect will probably bo, to close up for the duration of the war the de. nominational colleges. St. David's Collfge, Lanru peter, and the Welsh Calvinistic Methodist CQl- lege at Aberystwyth, arc already closed. ■ a