Cheshire Observer

THE Observkr Almanack. We have plclure in mnouncing that our ALMANACK for 19'H is presented with this week's "CHESHIRE OBSERVER." The ALMANACK contain." particulars of postal arrangement; list of fairs, city and county magistrates, and ether useful local and general information. CHBSTER i STEAM LAUNDRY, VICTORIA ROAD (CLOSE BY THE NORTHGATE STATION). All the arrangements are on the most approved modern system for Washing, Ironing, Drying, Packing, &c., and the management most efficient. W. H. LIPSHAS1, Secretary & General Marager. {Chester Steam- Laundry Co., Ltd ) Inspection is specially invited on any day excepting Mondays and Saturdays. TELEPHONE 63, Evans & CO. (Chester), LTD., WINE & MERCHANTS, THE EASTGATE, CHESTER. WINKs & 8 P I P., I T OF FINEST QUALITY. FINDLATER'S NOURISHING STOUT. HEINEKEN'S LAGER BEER. BASS' PALE ALE. I'KICK LIST OX APPLICATION.

MISH AP AT M ALP AS. TARPORLFY LADY CYCLIST INJURED. COLLISION WITH A MILK-FLOAT. I SPECIAL TELEGRAM.] Miss Emma Da vies, daughter of a Tarporley builder, met wish a serious accident morning while cycling home from a bll held all la.,t evening. Prac-ee-ling down Ebnal Bank, Malpas—s. dangerous hill—she lost control of her machine and collided with a milk-float. She was pitched on to the hard frozen road with terriffic force. Her head was severely cut, and at noon she had r regained consciousness, ohe was i-eiriovod to Whitchurch Cottage Hospital, and tie. in precarious condition.

A NESTOX MAN'S ACCIDENT, ■ NARROW ESCAPE. A?cm th"?? o'clock n Thursday d T- M:\ Davi a Scotc who f?dc's w?ih his brother, Mr. Robert Soot-t, of Little N'-stoii, fai-ree-, was de- livering a lead of hay at N,w Brighter., vrb*a. he met with a very aerioas eco'dent.■ He was lifting oris.of tin-? trusses on the- lop of the load hy tr.eunf of the band, vrbon it bioke, and ho was f'wipi- t.T.tf;d on to the sets in the el root. He vvap cf coairs- ♦>adly injured, and on his removal to tlv- Wallasey Cottage Hospital wher> he now lias, it v.'?s« found «eoc?sary tc place six sth'-Aes in. hi.- h^ad His aneti!c,-u o,terdant expressed wrprise- thai r.r. was ewf killed. He is progressing as favo:?'> as can 4,0 expected.

HELSBY BUILDING PLAX8. I A StOBY Of RMU&i.?.. j At vi meeting of the Runcorn Run! or, Tuesday th: resolution was received (."tlc- Kebby Barochi^} Committee with reference to thi. letter of tfce Council referring to the houift. recent!j erected by Mr. Tayloi- at I lit- top of Robin' K-xxl- lane. he committee thought tho Council's letter of rebuke quite uncalled for, and nli'.e-.s the Council would support the committeb in properly carrymg out sucn plans they would &.?rou-iIj con- sider the advisability of rescinding the bye-laws a't?etht.r. laughter. )-Mr. Cot!r (ohairmari of the committee/ moved the a,d?? t'or of the •ninute* -Mr. Linaker contended tl at the HeL-by Committee v.ore entirely responsible for Le r )í- ¿io which they were in. The doIiaquc.T??-.wi?ch Frod?ham w.?rc supposed b h?vc COK?r??u ccn- ♦ainc I nothing so silly a. I hi:; resoUifior. from Hol.sby. (Hear, hear.) The Parochia! Com rn it tee •hould carry ont the bye-laws to the. best or their ebiiity. and it was the duty of a district conr.ciUor who. had any objection to plans, to slate such the Building Committee and the Council. He proposed thai the minuios be con- firmed wiiu the exception of Che one referring to 4his unfortunate building operation, vvhieh should tJ8 expunged.—Mr. Wright f.ecordei-— Elev-n vof-ed f )r the amendment., Mr Collier voting array's f- i!

APPALLING DISASTER. THEATRE BURNED DO :,i: HUNDREDS OF JAVgg LOST. CSroago was ca Tir^MJUy U:> see: one c the. n'ccst awful calamities of nvcd->rr. the Iroquois theatre, full of peopH, being dosljroyed by fire, and hundreds of live* being •oat. The cry of "Firo" in the pvjke.i theatre oa.u)<J a panic among tier a,fp"'T tier of people, end an awful struggle for -We- followed Tho wrrdor, and baloc-ni«s found piled up with 4ha dead and dying, and firamen d,:d other teaouers give ghastly detads of th'_> appearanoe of the blazing passages strewn with corpses. The •norguos were soon filled with the doj/i, and -other fcuiidings in the city had 10 be iised in which to clace the bod e" of those who a few ir-.inutus- be- fore had been enjoying a p perterniaoce. Tho scenes at t e theatre arid around; tre morgues -of the most Heart'enduig desoriptic: hun- dreds of pouple olamouring to find oat fate of their reiat y. V'. ten the. panio in the bi;rr.ir:g theatre was at its height two gas expkded. "rom the repo rl;" cf the city officials and th-el J. fsub air«rt(iv •- i hered a! the mortuaries it; is cnlv icxi painfully evident thi»t tho disaster has fxyan equalled in horror for very many years. Fuller ao I M ,s cf the appalling tire at the Iroquois Thr: at Chicago add many gainful det'.vils, of tfte esparate struggle for life in the •kurnin j build Tiie niii-nb-t- (of j. certainly mot le,61 thau^'OC and may considerably exceed that figure, j

WELCHM: iÙ THE NEW YEAR. -1 NESTOK u NIQU R ((-/VTHEEiiNi.. I In accorda- wi-vi the old custom of over f-i<- j^ars etandn,: a Jxrgc nuinl»"r cf persons, ccm- of of the various plac«« of worship, in a i tio-n to a largo and r-.isojllanecus gather;ng c: ge leral public, assemMed at the •fcown Cross. live numÕtw epontanec-u^ly gatherod to :r vvas probai)ly a thousand per- sons ot both s. The public light had ec tiagurahod l, the gleams, of lancems only lighted up t1 cto.-esqu-V.cono as Colore! Lloyd tho memLer c' the Urban C-")uneil has long and most iail- uly hoon the spokesman on these occasions, m. ,t- w. Lhe st^ps of the public foun- tain and b. reviewed tho events of the past year, wh». ri-id brought- great sorrow into ec ■naiiv hom; •• He trusted, however, that. the would t.y u. ij ■: ther trotrWee aside and to enter upon the bi, New YSKT with brave and hcn-p- tful hearts. I h^ron "J<vsu> reig- toa's watcii*,v<. tn Ciis occasion, was li,, sung Ccio i. ayd giving out cf ef1.d. Ve-iSC.  ) The usuai a -h-raght Kimoos were, IicM a & the various place wcv-ship in Ne?<;&;i on Now YcA/p Eve. That ?,? vl.o pamh church was conducted Ly th? Rev. Canon Tumor and the Rv. E. W. Bowel!, and wis of naatic .Jarly impressive d^:ription. The. hymn". <!n God our help In ages, in Vast" and "Days nr. 1 moments quickly flying" were sung. As the soku-.iv hour cf midnight dr&w near the- big t>:ll hiyh u; 1': the church tower slowly count/ed out the lactTts of 1903 ndthø cor.gregatioi. Im.t \*hi!e, r- Vicir suggested fitting wbjocts for the siJ«!i; n":ysre that were b^ing o5f-?d. A imony p. a )•>••od in 1904, and Canon Turner oon- eludod the ■ -o by wishing (h^ congreguticit a <#rght -and hc-ppv New Year. -At the Pre«bvteriaii Cilurch, i)riina.tpd th{. wate11-night ser- vioo3 her? jefi.rs in advance of ti:o other desnominatio the Rev. J. Towert conducted a similar «c;v'V-. while at the Woeleyan Churci>, Mr. Thomas Peer- .;f Aa'ifield, Nefito-i,, and of Kar.ds- worth College, (d so Iveld a sei-vic > suit-xl ttJ, the- occasion.

RAILWAY COLLISION AT OHESTEK. A BRAKESMAN KILLED. The long immunity from serious railway acci- dents which Chester has enjoyed was unfortu- ntely broken on Thursday, when a collision, at- tended by the loss of one life. occuried near tho Hoole bridge. The passenger train leaving Bir- kenhead at 7.5 a.m. and dU2 at Chester at 7.50 was slowly running off the Birkenhead line into the Creat Western bay, and when crossing No. 4 junction !-an into an engine and brake-van which wcr:, standing foul of the incoming line. The impact. notwithstanding that the passenger tram had slowed down. was very violent and tho tv o engines and front carriage of tho passenger train left the rails. The nun killed was Thomas Cowap, a, sir.gio man living at 19 Brook-lane Cottages. Chester. He was a brakesman a; ting as guard to the ballast train, and it is believed that he was staua.ng on the step ot n.s engine ana was tnrown off and klled instantaneously. Ho was not run over, but his neck apparently was broken by the terrible forco with which he was hurled to ths ground. The driver of the passenger train, a niaii named Tomlinson and who residop. in Wes- ley-road Higher Tranmere recognised that. a collision was inevitable, and he jumped from his engine, v -th the result, that he was severely shaken and bruised. H: was removed to the In- firmary and is now going on well. The chnv'-r and ifreman of the ballast engine were slightly injured, as also were the driver of the passenger train, ;.nd a permanent way ganger named Tweedale, who wa." in the ballast van. The fireman of the passenger train remained on the engine, and miraculously c-scaped injury The passengers were naturally much alarmed by the collision, and were severely ohaken. A gentleman who was in tuR first-class carriage says he was jerked about the carriage, and other passengers tell a similar story Happily, none of them seem to ha.ve sustained injuries of any gravity. Mrs. Luke Roberts, of Mollington, had a leg hurt, and was sent home. in a cab. Miss Jones, of Rose Farm, Mollington, was shaken rather badly, and Mrs. Da vies, of Ellesmere Port, v/as also slightly shaken, but was able to proceed to Wrexham. The two engines were preatly damaged. The buffers of the ballast engine and the planking behind were smashed, and the buffers of the passenger train were very much twisted. The permanent way was considerably damaged, and traffic waS seriously disorganised. London and I North Western and Great Western braak-down gangi were quickly on the spot, and by 11-30 the line was cleared. Meanwhile, the Birkenhead and Holyhead trains had been worked on a single loop, and the goods traffic was stopped. The news of the accident spread with remarkable rapidity, and at first it was feared that the conse- quences were very serious. In response to telephone calls by Mr. Marrs. Drs Butt. Archer,, Lees, Taylor and Henry Dooie were quickly on the scene, but luckily there was very little need for their services. Their arrival had been preceded-by that of Mr. Entwistle. district superintendent of the London and North Western Railway, his assistant, Mr, Bailey, Mi-. Paxton, Great Western superin- tendent, Mr. Marrs, stationDiaster, and Mr. Latabert, assistant stationmaster. Under theii guidance the chaos was speedily reduced to order The inquest on Cowap was opened by the city coroner (Mr. Brassev) yesterday (Friday) afternoon.

MR. BASKE3 FOR FLINT. I THE CAMPAIGN OPENED. At: important and largely-attended <m.&ctmg of dekigates appointed to represent the Unionist voters of the borough cf Flint, and the various oontributory boroughs, was held ab tho Nafionai School*, Mold, on Thursday afternoon. The meeting had been convened by circular, issued by Mr. H. A. Tilby, organising secretary, and wa-i tor the purpose of oor.firming the selection of M". J. El do n Bankes. as the Unionist candidate k' Flint Boroughs." I.,)r,d pros'ded ar enti-?usia.-?t?c gyfchf i i ng, and among others pre3en were Mr. P. P Pennant, Mr. T. Bate, Major Phil.ps, Mr. Philip Roberts, Dr. Mould (Flint), Messrs. J. B. Marston, T. 31. Keene, T. W. Hughes (Flint), W. P. Jones, J. T. Swift, James Thomas, job Edwards, J. Cartwright, T. Beresford, etc. Lord Mostyn said he found from the agenda that the first duty -he was expected to perform wu." to introduce Mr. Bankes to tho delegates. Ho considered that would be quitt) unnecessary, ae; to many of them Mr. Bankes was well known from his boyhood. (Cheers.) He oonsidiered they had b-en very fortunate in gett:ng such a strong and dist.nguished candidate M Mr. Bankes— (cheors)—and he hoped that with the assistance of these present and others, Mr. Bankes would be rB. t!ari M, at the head of the poll. At tho meeting of the Constitutional Association for the selection cf a. candidate, several gentlemen were, proposed, hut when they came to Sir. Bankes's name all the. other ?pn.dcmen withdic" their na.m? in favour of Mr. BankM. His lordship then called upon Mr. Bankes to address the meeting on the burning questions of the day. Mr. Bankes, who was most oord ally received, apoke at some length upon the fiscal question and the Education Act. which he considered as the burning questions of the day. With regard to the. fiscal question, ho stated that ha was prepared to loyally support the policy of Mr. Balfour as g-v-uu in the Sheffield speech. Mr. Bankes aiso spo.e on t I>e Education Act. He ad v oca tod a.r; amendment of the Act which would remove tlle ex- isting difficulty for the Nonconformists in single schcc-i diBtricts. If he were returned' as tlv.ir mem- bor he would give his best attention to every mat- te/ that would benefit th; electors. He had beeh accustomed to hard work, and if elected as their representative he wotlll do all that in him lay to merit their confidence. Mr. Bankes was fre- quently applauded during his speech, and at ic-j cOLd iusiop, ,„Mr. W. P Jones (Mold: proposed, Dr. Mou'd (^iirit.; seconded, Mr. P. P. Pennant supported, and it was unanimously and enthusiastically re- "That- this meeting, representing Unionists of the Flint Boroughs, considers YLr. T Bankes a fit and proper person to bcconu- their Parliamentary candidate for the Boroughs, and radges itself to u~? all legitimate means to secure his return at the next election." A cordial veto of thanks to Lord Mo-tyn for pre.<i,i;g brought the meecmg to a close.

BAZAAR AT CONNAIFS QUAY. A two- d ays' bazaar was opened at St Mark '? A two-days' hazaar Wit" opc-ned at St. Mark'" ?at-onh?. ?choo? on Wednesday, the object boin? to raise funds towards paying off the debt re- maining on the new Wopte Presbyterian Churc-h, amounting to L 1,800. The cost of the chapel in the first instance was £ 3,300. £ 1,500 of which has I been raised already. The room was artistically (ieccratod, the stalls being arranged1 down one side of t .e school, the draperies on the stalls producing a most, pleasing effect. The following were the committee responsible for the arrangement- The Rev. Edward Griffiths (pastor), Mr. J. T. Hum- pluvyn (chairman), Mr. John Forbcr, &mr. (treasurer), Messrs, Hugh Hughes and W. Vickers thot,. secretaries;, Messrs. VV. Jones, B. Hughes, T. Mathias, A. Forber, S. Vickers, J. Hutton, G. F. Roberts, H. Jones, W. Mathias, A. Parry, W. Shaw. W. Coppack. T. C. Jones, W. Parry, E. Edwards, A. E. Humphreys, W. Forber, W. Vic- kers, E. Davies, W. E. Jones, etc. Th" opening ceremony was performed by Mrs. J. R. Freme, of Wpr,ô Hall, Mr. E. S. T.iyior presiding. Among those present were the Revs. E. Griffiths {pastor^. J H. Davies (E.vloe), Messrs. D. Edwards, J. Princ-f, J. T. Humphreys. Mr. and Mrs. E. Biane Mrs. and Miss Morris, Captain Conway, Mr. T. Mathiae, Mr. R. C. Roberts, Mr. H. Hughes (iion. bejietary), etc.—-Mr. E. S Taylor, in his opening remarks, said there wor" differences of opinion in religious matters, and he yielded to no one in hi. love and loyalty to the Church to which he be- longed; but there was nothing incompatible in coming to assist on an occasion such ae that. There were times when we required toleration, and he ventured to think if they were brought together more, and exchanged ideas, they would find that they were not so far apart as tlify might, think. (Applause.) fie found that the friends had erected a beautiful edifice at. a cost of £ 3.300. This must have cost them a great personal sacrifioe, but the church was one of which t'nev and the town might fef>! justly proud. He was pleased to know that a large amount had. bv their enerttv and devotion been paid off but a debt. of £ 1 800 still remained, a.?d it was to liquidate that debt that the bazaar was lioing held that. da.y. From wnat he saw be- fore him there was the means and opportunity of paying off a good portion of the debt. They all regrert<-d the absence of Mr. Frcme. and lie ex- pressed the hope that he might. soon J* restored to health, so that. ho would be able to assist Mrs. Pveme on occasions of that kind. -The Rev F. Griffiths proposed, and Mr. J. T. Humphreys seconded, a hearty vote of thanks to Mrs Frenic- for her kindness.—There were various side shows including "The Old Curiosity Shop." under the managüment of Messrs. Joseph Forber and John K Humphreys. During the uveiling the Weprc x lt-rrct troupe delighted large audiences with their humorous sketch, entitled "Kill or Cure," the fol lowing taking part:—Mr. A. E. Humphreys Mis Annie Parry, Mr. J. Forber, Mr. W. Coopack Mr. T. Vickers. Mr. T. M. Roberts and Mr. T Mathia-A The following- were the stalls and stall- holders :—"The Cedars." Mesdam&s T. Mathias G. Roberts Cooper, J. T. Prince, Misses May Roberts, M. Wilkinson, P. Vickers and L. Vickers; "The Firs. Misses Annie Parry. Shaw M. P. Vickers P. Coppack and L. Coppack: "The Ho:!ies Mesdames K L. Jones, W. Dodd Wil- liams, A. Coppack. Misses I). Vick-r-3, Hu m- phry, J. Vickers, M. Vickers. West and M Brown. Tho refreshment stall was presided over by Mesdamos S. Vickers W. Jonce, J. Hutton Coppack Davies, W. Lloyd. Wymw, Misses A. Lloyd. F. Hughes, P. Jones.—The opening cere- mony on Thursday was performed by Miss Morris, of Liverpool, under the presidency of Mr. C. S. Furdo-n M.B., Connah's Quay.

TATTENHALL. RUMMAGE SALE. -On Wednesday a rummage sale w,t,; held in the Barbour Institute, with the object of raising funds to purchase an outfit for a i gymnasium that is to be opened in connection with the Institute. A considerable quantity of mis- cellaneous articles were gathered together, and soon found a ready sale. The members of the com- mittee, under Mr. T..Vi. Dutton (chairman), Mr. Artban (secretary), and Mr. R. Willis (treasurer). worked energetically, and a fairly good sum was realised,

RIFLE CLUBS' CONTEST. I I UPTON v. HOLT. I The return match between the Upton and Holt Rifle Clubs took place at the Upton .Reading- room on Saturday evening. It w.ll be remem- bered that on the occasion of the first match a few weeks ago the Holt team were victorious by three points, but it was generally felt that, owing to the fact- that the Upton range was considerably longer than that at Holt, the home team would stand a good chance of getting even with their opponents. In the first stage of the competition, th* Upton team secured a lead of 10 points, but in the second stage, the Holt team gradually re- duced their lead until victory was to be. decided by the final shots of the last man of each team, Mr. James Tilston for Holt and the veteran marksman, Mr. James Prince, for Upton. gradually got ahead of his veteran antagonist, and as a result Holt were declared winners by five points. At the conclusion of the contest, Mr. Thomas Lea, district councillor for Holt, proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the Upton team for their hospitality, they having entertained the Holt team and the visiters at tea. Mr. Joseph Youde seconded the vote and called for three cheers for the Upton team. These were heartily given and cordially reciprocated by the Upton team. The following were the scores, the first- figures repre- senting scores when standing, and the second kneeling: —Holt: J. C. Beliis, 30, 29; Charles Beliis, junr., 19, 32; Owen Beliis, 31, 32 James Tilston, 28, 32; John Green, 27, 32; W. Lloyd Chaloner, 27. 30; W. Chaloner, 25, 29; John Parker, 21, 32; Henry Jones, 32, 29; Henry Huxley, 28, 29; George Sadler, 30, 33; tor.,1 627. Upton James Hignett. 32, 27; James C. Thorn- ton, 31, 31; Charles Dean, 28, 30; John William- son, 29, 30; Raymond Prince, 27, 30; James Stacey 32, 29; James Hughes, 20. 30; J. H. Williams, 27, 30; Alio McLean, 24, 30; Cawley Worral, 31, 28; James Prince., 29, 27; total 622; iraicrit)- for Holt 5. UPTON HEATH COMPETITION. A thootln-- contest, confined to the members of the Upton Heath Rifle Club, took place on Tues- day evening in the presence of a large number of the supporters of the club and the members. Mr. James Prince kindly acted as handicapper, and the, priz-es were presented by Mrs. J. M. Fl'o--t, ot Upton Lawn. The conditions were 10 shots standing. The arrangements made by Mr. J. C. Thornton, the energetic secretary, and the com- mittee wero admirable. The following is a. re- sult of the competition:—1st prize, Charles Blake, total'51; 2nd, J. J. Moore, 50; 3rd, Ray- mond Prince, 47; H. W lliams, 46: James Hig- nett, 45; George Coppack, 45; James C. Thorn n, Arrhur Hinde, 44; James illianvson, 46 Charles Dean, 42; James Hughes, 42; Geo. Sediey 41; J. H. Williams, 4C; Thomas Ithell, 39; James Jones. 39; A. McLean, 38; James Stncey, 38; T. Garner, 33; Philip Rutter, 36; Hector Hughes, 34; Abrahain Woodward, 34; F. Clark, 23. On Saturday a competition' took place at the range for boys under 16 years of age, whioh was equally interest ng. The, prizes oon- sisting cf pocket knives, were kindly given by Mr. Richard Ithell, of Upton Old Hall, who also provided the competitors with froo ammunitcn. the following were the winners:—1st prize."Chas. McLean; 2nd, A. W. McLean.

"TIRRAL WEDD-INGS. I SEALEY—THOMAS. I The marriage, of Miss Ilaiiiml-, Tiionaz,, eldest daughter of Mr. Hugh Thomas, of Belmont Cot- tage, with Mr. Harold Sealey. eldest son of Mr. William Sealey, of Upper Ipsley, Redditch, was solemnised at the Neston Presbyterian Church on Monaay afternoon. The wedding was very prettv, and a considerable number of the relatives and friends of the contracting parties ga-thered in the handsome building to witness it. Tho bride, who was given away by her father, wore a diess of white silk, the skirt being of tucked siik and Valenciennes lace and pleted crepe de chine. She wore a bridal veil and a wreath of orange blos- som, and carried a bouquet of white chrysanthe- mums and maidenhair fern, the gift of the bride- groom. The bridesmaids were four in number, viz., Miss Ethel Sealey (sister of the bridegroom), and the Misses Polli-j, Lizzie and Martha Thomas (sisters of the bride). They were dressed aiike in white spotted muslin with black veivet bcleros and iargre black pictuib hats with ostrich feathers. The bride's mother woû a dress of black satin trimmed with bLtc-k net and green sequins, and bonnet. to match. The wedding was choral, open- mg with the hymn "How wo!oome was the call." ihe coremony was performed by t.112 Rev. J. Towert. Mr. Alfred Field a: ted as best man. and at the close Miss Minnie Platt, who presided at t.1¡> organ, rendered a spirited Wedding March. The happy pair left Neston later- in the afternoon en route for Redditch. the friends who assembled to see them off besprinkling them freely with the ted-tale confetti. The bride's travelling dress was of blue tweed, with green hat trimmed with whit- birds. The wedding piesents, which were of a very hanefsome description were as folio -.vi: Brides mother, wedding breakfast house linen. etc. bride s father, cheque; JVliss Polhe Thomas, brilliant ornament, afternoon teacloth, etc. Miss Lizzio Thonus, French tea. service, teapot and stand, cosy, etc.; Miss Martha Thomas, over- mantel, ornaments and bedroom pictures; father of the bridegroom, handsome sideboard; Miss SSaley, knives aud forks; Miss Amv Sealey. fancy table; Mrs. Russell Vine House, knives and sil- vov forks; Mrs Rimmcr. dessert spoons; Miss Bryant, silver jam spoon and butter knife; Miss Eagles, silver sugar tongs; Miss Roberts, silver teaspoons; Mr. and Alr- Kidman, Springfield, fiilver dinner forks; Penrice. pincushion; Miss Wiliox, Springfii«id silver pickle fork; MN" 0. G. Smith, fancy tree pot; Mr. and Mrs. S. Barnes. hearthrug; Miss Hampson,'silver cruet; Miss S. Broster, London pair of Panama pin- oushions Mr. and Mrs Hampson, London, hand- worked Indian tablecloth; Mrs. Evans tea cosy; Mr. W. Barnes, hand-painted trinket set; Mrs. Per?, AshSeld, doylys; Miss Annie Peers cushion; Miss Da-sy Peers, antimacassars and curtain ties; Messrs. Whitehead, cushion; Miss Elsie Whitehead, cushion and nightcaso; Mrs Tranter, counterpane; Miss Edie Tranter, pic- t'll; Mr. P. Tranter, brackets; Mrs. Crowder, curtain tie,, and t:dy; the Misses Bowen, cf Tenby (oousinst. handsome homespun bedspread; Sir. Reid, coloured tablet lotii; the Misses Platt. photo frames; Mrs. Jones breakfast cruet; Sir. G-sorge Roberts, junr., damask tablecloth; Mrs. Heaton shaving mirror; Miss S. Heaton, crca.m jug and sugar basin Miss Maiy Heaton. tea eiddy Mrs. Stafford, vase; Miss Stafford, picture; Miss C. Leighton. fancy ornament; Miss Swan wick. pcp. per box Mr. and Mrs. Newton. hand crocheted d'oyjys; the Misses Newton, toilet mats; Miss Emily Newton, brackets; Mrs. Jolley. handsome hand-woi kc-d mantel border; Miss Heath, Miss Cottrell, Miss Marks Miss Radcliffe and Miss xlandley. toilet mats; the Misses Cowan, copper I kottle; Mis. Duncan, vases; Mr. Jack Murray. I candlesticks; Miss M. Jones (cousin), photo I i frames; Mias C Halewood, decanters; Miss 'Tiny' Barnes, hand-painted view and vases; Mr. G. Cirr, workbox; Sirs. Eadbinder, frilled pillow slips; Mp. Boardmnn couch cover; Sir. Holland Hoyiake, silver table spoons; Sirs. Jones, pin- cushions, salt cellars etc The firm of A lcocks. of Redditch. fishing rod makers, with whom Mr. Sealey-, senr., Lid the bridegroom are connected, presented the latter with a beautiful marble clock. AUSTIN—DAVIES. A wcoding that, rc-ated a considerable amount- of interest in the drowsy old village of Pudding- tou took place on Monday afternoon. The bride was Miss Sarah Ann Davies daughter of Mr. John Davies, Woodland Cottage, Puddington, and the bridegroom Mr. Joseph Austin of Brynsteddford, Conway. The bride's dress was of cream cash- mere, trimmed with blue silk. and white felt hat to match. There were four bridesmaids, viz Miss Maiy Elizabeth Dav; 's and Miss Margaret Ellen Davies (sisters of the bride), who were attired in dresses of blue cashmere trimmed with white silk, and the little nieces of the bride, Misses Lillie and May Davies who were dressed in cream frocks, trimmed w;th blue silk. The bridal party were conveyed in several bioughams to Burron Parish Church, wh2re the marriage was solemnised. The V car (the Rev. Patrick F. A. Slorrell) officiated and the bride was given away by her father. iNI-c Charles Austin, brother of the hrid yroom, acted as best man. The, list of presents was as follows: -.M,othetr and father of bride, cheque; parents of bridegroom, counter- pane; Sirs. Congrevcv of Segrwyd, Deribv silver spoons, knives and forks; Mr. and Mrs. William Davies, brass toast stool; Mr. and MrS. John Davies, set of jugs; Robert and Nellie Davies cheque; Mary Davies tea servi e; the; Misses May and Tessic and Master Jack Davies orna- ments; Miss Mary Congreve, picture and poui- tfy; Mr. Alfred Ausm rug; Mr. Charles Austin lamp; Mrs. Shaw inkstand; Lillie and Robert ornaments; Mrs Staniey. two pictures; Mrs. Wil- cexoii and family tea cosy and mats and two sets of giass dishes; -Mis" Wilooxon ch?que; servants, dinner service; Mrs. Sumuel Griffith and Robert Griffith, counterpane- and tablecloth Miss Haw- thorn?. set of tcwrls; Mn Roberts sugar basin and ere im jug; Robert and Samuel Konerts, sil-I ver toast rack; Miss Hu<rhes, ornamental t.avie- cloth Mi's. Bedson sideboard cloth Mrs. Jones coloured tablecloth; Miss Join-on pincushion and handkerchief caiu Miss Nellie and Maggie imar- ley rug; Miss Roberts brpa.d board and butter dish; Mrs. Leigh sets o china. ornaments; Miss A Jones, jug :md bracket plates; Mr. Hawkins sets of jugs; Mr. John Tomlinson, ejigstand and cruet: Miss Tomlinson chcese dish; Mrii. Hughes china plate; Miss Lloyd cheque; Sirs. Williams cheese dish. MELLOR—FFOULXES. I On Saturday there was quit,, an unwonted bustle ¡ in the picturesque villis1^ of Burton, the occasion being the marriage of Mi.;s Christine Meilor daughter of Mr. John Meilor. of Ivy Cottage, with Mr. Robert John Ffoulkos of Birkenhead. Thø ceremony was perfoTm^d at the charming old t)roh chmch bv the Vicar (the Rev. Patrick F. A Mnrr?!!). and t? bride w?s g iv?n away bv her father Mr. F. Ftoulkes. brother of th; bride- groom. acting as best man. She was very cha'm- ncrly attirin a dr^ss of dark blue, trimmed with la-e, and beavor i-at to match, and her sisters Miss Annie Mellor nd Alias Jeanpie Mellor. who attended her as bridesmaids were also very be- comingly attired- <\fter the ceremony an at home was hold at Ivy Co'taT" at which about fifty guests were present The npwly-married pair have left for Bangor, in which neighbourhood they are making their home.

A GRESFOltD WEDDING, ♦ An interesting ceremony took placo at the historic church ot Grestord on Thursday, when the marriage of Mtss Ida Gaskell Holland, eldest daughter of Nh". W. G. iioliiiiid, and Mr. Robert 1, raric Le hJailly. only son of Captain H. L. Le DUlllY, of 87, St. James'.s-road, London, was solemnised. The ceremony was conducted by the HH. E. A. Fishbourne (vicar of the parish). The church bells rang at intervals merry peals during the day. Beautiful arches of evergreens had been erected near the bride's home, and at the church gate* an awning was erected from the church gateway to the western doorway. A crimson carpet was laid. While the wedding party were assembling the organist, Mr. E. J. Cnnnah. F. H. C. O.. gave a recital, consisting of the follow- ing music: "March Nuptiale" (Guilrnaut), "Sons Leo Bois" (Durand). Introduction Act III." (Wagner), "Norturne in E flat" (Chopin), Bridal Cnorus (Wagner). In addition to the usual Christmas decorations, the church was prettily adorned with palms, lilies and white lilac. A long time previous to the service a large con- gregation had assembled. The bride, who was given away by her father, was attired in white satin, trimmed with white chiffon, embroidered with i; tiver and pearls, and carried a bouquet com- posed of choice white lilies and pink begoma". Her bridesmaids were her three sisters, the Misses Phillis, Dorothy and Molly Holland, together with Mis- Grace Le Bailly (sister of the bridegroom), who were daintily gowned in white tafetta silk made in early Victorian style.Tiiey wore Tri-cone white felt hats, and carried bouquets of scarlet geraniums, which, together with pearl rings, were the gifts of the bridegroom. The duties of groomsman were performed by Mr. Thomson Clark. At the conclusion of the ceremony the hymn "The voice that breathed o'er Eden" was suing. While the marriage register was being signed the organist played Mendelssohn's •"Wedding March." Afterwards Mr. and Sirs. W. G. Holland, the parents of the bride, held at Clan Alyn a reception, which, owing to a recent family bereavement, was confined to immediate relatives and a few friends. Later in the day Mr. and Mrs. R. F. Le Bailly left for London and Paris, en route for Smyrna, where will be the new home of the happy pair. The bride's going-away dress was of dark blue tweed, with white facings and ermine toque and furs. LIST OF PRESENTS. Bride's father and mother, cheque, peai-I and gold cuain bridegroom 10 bndc, opal ri jig; brici-j to bridegroom, pearl studs; .1.d I S. Holland, pendant; iYir. and -Mrs. Carlisle, cheque, Dresden china tea service; Miss Catnerine Carlisle, minia- ture: Airs. W. D. ttees, Chesterfield sofa; Mr. W. 1. Kees, ring; sisters and brothers of the bride silver brushes and mirror; Mrs. Saml. Holland, Chippendale escretoire; Mr. C. M. Holland, cheque; Mr. Charles Holland, jun., silver lamp; the ivlisses iioiiand and Mrs. Shevenarcl, fitted travelling bag; iiournabat friends, clock; Mr. Holbrook Gaskell, silver dessert knives and forks; Miss Lily Gaskell. silver teaspoons and jam spoons; ?ir. and Mrs. L?id?y, pewter vase; Miss Lindsay, vase; Mi?s Dora iiirsch, fan; Miss iviussou; blotter Air. ana Airs. Cramer, irmt dish; Mrs. T. Jones-Parry, silver vase; Miss Jane Miaith, silver bon-bon dishes; Sliss Chrisarithe PericJis, silver pickle fork; Airs. Barling, purse: Mrs. Edwardes, willow pattern plate; Misses Maggie and Amelia Edwardes, silver sugar sifter and tongs; Air. and Airs. Williams (Pontwgent, barometer and tablecloth; Mrs. and Miss Lily Mabior, brass writing set; Miss Mabler, books; Mr. and Mrs. Percy James. .smelling salts: Sir. R. James, pearl brooch Mr. and Sirs. Lucas, silver photo frames: Airs. Boyd, embroidered box; Mr. Clinton Jones, picture; Mr. and Mrs. Binning, entree dish; Mr. William Rees, silver sugar basin and spoons; Captain and Mrs. Wilson, silver spirit bottle: the Misses Eskrigge, bookstand: Mr. Walter Holland, cheque and silver tea service; Captain L. H. Le Bailly, arm chair: Mrs. Le Bailly, tea and coffee service; Mrs. Norton, diamond pendant; Miss Margery Norton, set of books; Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Holland, writing table and watch; Sir. and Mrs. Schwann, silver and enamel buttons: Mr. Biggs and cousins at Roadside, plated tea kettle and stand; Mr. and Mrs. Cumberbatch, silver tea service: Sir. and Mrs. Gordon, Turkey rug: Mr. G. Gordon, silver scent bottle Mr. S. J. Gordon, whisky decanter; Miss Gladys Gordon, finger bowls: Mr. Godfrey Holland, books; Miss Kitty- IIolland, silver cake basket; Miss M. Le Bailly, silver salts: Mr. and Mrs. Walter Greg, book- stand Sliss May7 Gaskell, tea service; Mr. Thomson Clark, spirit bottles: Sliss Downie, antique ring and gold watch: servants at Glan Alyn, silver-mounted cup: servants at Caerdeon, silver rosebowl; Sir. Carson, fish knives and forks: Miss Egerton. old print: Mrs. Orred, Dresden china box: Mr. and Sirs. Purser, jun.. honey jar; Sir. and Sirs. Yorke. photographs of Erddig Sirs. Howell Evans, opera glasses: Mrs. Boileau and cóisr,er. cheque: Mrs. James Srrfith, silver bonbon dishes: Sir Robert and Lady Cunliffe, bridge case; Mr. F. G. Barker, silver bonbon dishes: Miss flutton, tea cloth: Mrs. Finlay. silver bat, purse; Mrs. Attentop, scent bottle: Sirs. Keith-Douglas, smellinsr salts: Sirs. J. C. Boyd. feather faii Mrs. and Sliss Price, pair of vases: Sir. and Mrs. Allington Huehes. silver clock: Mrs. R. Builey, opal and silver buckle: Sirs. Marshall Bulle.v, tea- e'oth Miss C. M. Manisty. silver photo frame; Mrs. Griffii-h-Boscawen table centre: Sirs. Summers, coffee cos- Mr and lr". Ashworth. silver vase*: Caofa in Warden, cheque: Dr. tncl \-frs. Rir>hi1rrl "'iJ1i'lms. silver teaspoons; 1\1, ind Mrs. Charlton Whittall. rues: Mr. Jlichard WViUtall, ruij: Chancellor and Mrs. Trevor Parkins. silver jam spoons: STiss flnsrhes 'Llanbedri, knitted sbo'drler co^e: Alr. ane, Mrs. ^nndbneh: Mr and Sirs .T Moire, silver r'ns box: Mr. Quirk, silver cak« basket: Mr. Barton, silvor coke stand: Dr. and in- laid tray: NTr. Jokn Cameron, silver vases: Dr. and Mrs. Mules, book: Miss and Sliss Grace Ateherley, silver f'h()to frame: Mr. J. STiller Nurtn. travelling* olrv»k ■ ATr and Mrs. J. Mabler. salts Mr. flne'To T-T. bracelet: Mrs. "-Vric/lit. silver nlinto frame Miss Vriht. picture; Mr. V. TV Wri-'Vif ..i1.p,. triilr.f brw: the Misses Gaskell. enamel <»b»;n • Dr. a^d Mrs. Cr[1irrmill. "r". 'I^s'-oll's twrVs. Miss B^vdell. photo frame; visr>: Mrs. Snuds. vellum "dlvim the Rev. and Mrs. Jamns, book: T.-vvnsbond. rilver thp Pey. and Sirs. Fishbourne oib'ER TS.«O Miss Rrvdon. vases Sir. ?d M? Svt? ?n.??r ??- thf. Misses Jones, centre vase: Miss Ruth Craiernile, ("raywT Mr. and Mrs r?c-'i. r?e knife; Mr. Char e;¡ Lloyd. silver photo frame.

HESWALL CHURCH SCHOOLS. DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES. The annual prize distribution in connection with the Heswall Church Day Schools was made last week in. the schcol buildings. The Rector (the Rev. T. H. Slay) presided, and a thronged attend- ance included Mr. T. Brocklebank Sirs, and the Misses May. Mr. and Mrs. SIc-adows Frost, Sir. Ledley Brown, Mr. William LecLsom, the Rev. C. Tansley, Mrs. Jones, the headmaster of the school (Mr. J. W. Shaw), the headmistress (frs. Y oang). etc.—The Chairman, in opening the proceed.ngs, spoke in high terms of the excellent attendance mack ty ill" children generally, notwithstanding the fact that many of them had to traverse the | Heswall hills and dales on their way to school. He (the rector) had much pleasure in bearing per- sonal testimony to the excellent work done by the teachers, and whl h was year by year bearing fruit. Although the schools had now come under t,.e County Council, the managers were careful to appoint. only teachers of good character, and such as were competent to impart religious in- struction, but it was little use the teachers giving religious instruction unless they were supported by home influence, and he urged the parents present to see that their ch ldien went regulariy to a placc,, of worship. In conclusion, he thanked the prize donors, and expressed the hope that the Cournil who now had the schools in hand would continue the rewards for merit previously given by private I nd Iv 'dua; 's-Mr. Meadows Frost fol- lowed, and Mr. Ledley Brown, in the course of his permitks, wished the children "A Merry- Christmas. The following programme was after- wards cleverly rendered by the children and was received witit n:uch applause:-SODg, "IIQir the tapping," the selLor children; recitation. "Beth Gelert," Gertrude Cooper; recitation, "Clown and Vicar, Rene Eliis; song "Little Bird," the in- fants; recitation, "Kittens Lesson," Edith Ellis; recitation, "Our Baby," Pattie Carr; recitation, Cherries, IIlorrie Davies; song, Merry L.ttie G,psies' the infants; recitation. "The Months, L ttlo Bess, tweive infants; recitation. "Littlo Bess," Gertrude Newton; song. "Beautiful SJoonlightthe senior children; recitation, "Perplexed Wife," Hilda Caldow; recitation, "Lord Chin's Daghter." V Moore and B. Boulton; song, "Autumn Woods, the senior children; recitation "Ask Mamma." Bessie Kitchen; recitation "Flattery," Leonie Male.—The Chairman afterwards distributed the prizes, with an encouraging word to e-. ch recipient, and the boy prize-winners each acknowledged his prize. with a smart military salute. The National Anthem brought the proceedings to a close. The prize list was as follows:-Re-ad iig: William Pennington, Bessie Kitchen, Nason Brownlie, Hilda Cardow, Fred Smallwood and Gertrude Cooper. Writing: Nason Brownlie and Vina Moore. Drawing: William Pcnn ngton. Good conduct ticket: Nason Brownlie, Gertrude Cooper and Doris Davies. Sew ng Slilicent- Clague. Rene Edis, Willie Newsome Isabel Caldow, Evelyn Swift. Alice Kitdwn. Martha Peacock. Bertha Lancelotte, Ed.tlr Ellis. Twenty children re- ceived medals for never being a bsent or late during the preceding year while sixteen children received medals for two years' regular attendance (never absent and never late). Seven children re- ceived medals for three years' regular attendance (never absent and never late) and Naeon Browjilie. Haroid Tarbuek, Rene Ellis, Charles Goodall, Gertrude Woodward, George Woodward, Nellie Kitchen, and Doris Davies received prizes for having fulfilled the trying condlt.on of being never absent or late during the long period of four years The prize-givers were as lllg prize, the Rector; writing and draw.ng Mr. T. Brockle- bank D.L.; priz'es for good conduct tickets and regular attendance, the trustees; the sewing prizes, by ladies who take an intei^st in the schools. Scripture certificates were awarded as follow :—Infants first year: Edward Clarke, Jas. Roberts, W. Kitchen, Annie Tarbuek, Hannah Rathbone Doris Forsnaw, Annie Ycuds, lYlaT- garet O'Ne'll. Mabel Kitchen; second year in succession. Ernest Newbrook F.ed Davies. Mary Grice. Group III. First year, Emmanuel Davies, Hugh Davies George Carpenter, Martha Pear cock, Alice Kitchen Ann J. Price; third year in succession Lizzie Owens Annie Clarke, Nelly Davies; fourth year, Alfred Venables. Group II First year, Cecil Kr.owles Slary Lloyd, Eveline Swift Mabel Caldow; second year, James Lamb James Evanson Wilfred Lancelotte; third year in succession, George Grice, Edward Slale, Cyril Ellis; fourth year in succession Leo Slale; fifth year, Lilian Beattie. Annie Brostcr; sixth year. Doris Davies. Group I. First year, Charles Goodall Bertha Boulton; second year, W. Light- foot, George Woodward; third year, George Cooper N. Peacock; fourth year, W. Broster, Rene Ellis, H. Caldow; fifth year Harry Totty. Bessie Kitchen. D. Swift sixth year, R. H. Pennington.

WELSH VOLUNTARY SCHOOLS 4- NATIONAL SOCIETY'S GRANT. The County Councils of Merionethshire and Montgomeryshire having refused to -make ecn- tribucions from the looal rates towards the maintenance of the denominational schools, ar:d no other funds being available for current expenses, teachers salaries have fa1.on into arrear, involving individual c ises of hardship. The National Society a fortnight ago issued an appeal to English Churchmen for contributions to tide over the temporary d.fficulty until t: e council re- served sufficient in talments of tho Government grants to meet the urgent roqu rements of the situation. On Tue-day it was stated at. Bangor that Canon Fairchild, acting for the Voluntary Schools Association, had received from the National Society £3000 to meet the mo-st pressing Church needs in the above counties.

IMPORTANT RAILWAY APPOINT-I MENT. A FORSIER CHESTER OFFICIAL. I Sir. Joseph Morris, who has been appointed I i superintendent of the l ne of the Great Western I Railway on the retirement of Mr. T. I. Allen, and took over the duties yesterday (Friday), was born at Whittington Shropshire, in 1845. He entered the service of the Great Western Railway Com- pany as a clork at Oswestry in 1861. and after doing duty at several st.ations was romovecl to the superintendent's office Chester, in 1864. After passing through the various depaitments of the office, ho was in 1870 appointed chief clerk to the then superintendent Sir. James Kelley. In the year 1879 he became assistant to Sir. Kelley, and on the retirement of the latter gentleman in 1896 succeeded him as superintendent of the Northern Division of the Great Western system. In 1891 Mr. Morris was appointed a S-Eiskllt to Mr. Bur- linson, the superintendent of the line at Padding- ton, and in this capacity he has acted for the last twelve years. During this period he has been associated with all the developments and improve- ments that have taken pin. c in the train service and traffic arrangements of the company. While located at Chester Mr. Morris took great interest in the Volunteer movement, being- attached to the 2nd Volunteer Battal'on of the Cheshire Regi- ment "(Earl of Chester's Rifles) He became cap- tain in 1833, was appo;nted honorary major in 1893, and retired in 1894 retaining his rank, having served about 18 years.

WILLASTON MAJORITY REJOICINGS UNIQUE GATHERING. A very enjoyable gathering was held at the Village Institute, Willaston. on Monday evening, ■to- celebrate the coming cf age of Miss Pollie Ilalc, eldest daughter of Mr. John Hale, of Mill View Cottage, a well-known local farmer and pro- prietor of the famous Wiliaston Mill, one of the most conspicuous landmarks Cheshire. The guests, who numbered abcut seventy, were, of course, ail personal friends of the llale family, and the festivities partook of the cnaracter ot -a family party. Among tne specially invited gucSt3 were the V,ear (the Rev. Walsham. Postance) and Mrs. Postanoe, the Misses Postance, Miss Daw- son, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. \\r.ght and the Misses Wright (Liverpool), Air. and Airs. E. Bate (Liver- peol), the Misses Okili (Liverpool), Mr. Kendal (Liverpool), Miss M. Davies (Rock Ferry) Mr. J. Prentice, Sir. Wlliam Burkey and Sliss Burkey (cousins), Sir. P. Sw.tt, M.s Bireii, Mr. T. Smith, Miss Crisp, lYlr. W. Taylor, Sliss Be-t-heli, Mr. and Mrs. Slason (Willaston), Mr. W. Ellison (Raby), Miss F. Ash-fcon, Mr. A. Wnght, Miss Ashton, lir. W. Pugh, M. E. Ashton, Mr. Ernest Johnson, Miss Annie Pugh, Mr. John Pugh, Sliss A. Penketh, Mr. W. Poilard, M ss Pollard (DenhailJ, Mr. A. Pugh, Miss Emtly Jones, Mr. R. Cross, Mr. John Tickle (Dunstan), Miss Lilian Tickle, Miss Florence Tckle, M,ss :Minnie Tickie, Ir. John Sherlock, Mr. Ti.omas Sherlock, Miss Lucy Sherlock, Miss Lydia Sherlock, Mr. W. and Miss Millingtoii, Mr. E. Reynolds, Mr. W. Feather- stone, Mr. and Mrs. Bristor, Mr. Philip Turner, Mr. Walter Norman, Mr. Horatio Ellison, Mr. SI. Argyle-, Mr. Simon Neild, Sir. R. Taylor, Mr. G. Rad lev (co-usin), Mr. and Mrs. J. Hale, Mr. C. Hale, Miss Fanny Hale, Sliss Margaret Hilda Hale, lVIr. C. Snutn. (cousin). Jackson's (Heswall) String Band was in attendance, and Mr. Hale and his daughter opened tho ball, the guests wrth great zest, quickly folic wing the nspiring example thus set them. During an interval the Slisses Tickle (Dunstan) rendered a capable piano-forte duet, and The Rev. Walsham Postance, addressing the guests, referred to the esteem and respect with which Sir. and Mrs. Ha.e had inspired the country- side. He had known them intimately since he came to rilastc-n many years ago, and could speak with confidence as to their worth and also of the many amiable qualities of the charming yrcung- lady m whose honour they were assembled that evening. (Applause. Ne WM not blmd— he continued facetiously—nor was his li "Flz"g affected—(laughter)—and while noticing the circ? of youthful admirers that hovered about her he could not help reflecting that instead of cutting a birthday cake, as she was tfiat evening, she would m all probability shortly have to partition a wedding cake. (Laughter and applause.) Inecn- clusion, he wished her on behalf of himself and fellow guests all future happiness and' every blessing. (Cheers.) Slr. Hale, in appropriately acknowledging on behalf of his w.fe and daughter and himself the kind words that had fallen from the Vicar, ex- pressed the- pleasure it gave him to meet. so many of his friends, with whom he had been so long ] and so p?santly assq;¡acd, and dosed bv wih- ?g them all "A happy and prosperous New ? ear. (Applause.) ?''??'? afterwards sp.ng verv artist'caUy of "Tal' Flight of Ages," and Mr. Wright foliowed with Bonnie Mary of Argylo." Dancin" g was)' resumed and spiritedly kept up until two a.m., the gucst-i having moanwnile been ver"v hospit? ably entertained by Mr. and Mrs. Hale. The presents were as follow:—Family, cheque; Slother, set of furs; Mr. George R ad ley (cousin), £ 5 cheque; Sir. John Radley (cousin), ditto; Air. S. Burkey (uncle), kid gloves; Sir. P. W. Burkey (eousin), pearl necklace; Miss A. Burkey (cousin), box of handkerchiefs; Sir. and Mrs. Wright (Liverpool), silver-backed hand mirror; Mr. and Mrs. Bate, timepiece and ornaments; Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Lee, white ebony-backed brush and comb in case; Miss Jones (Nag's Head), writing case; Mr. and the Misses Tickle (Dunstan), silvr glove streteher, shoe horn, and button hcok Mr ana Mrs. Leeoh, leather hand bag; Mr. and Alr- -old brooc h A li, ^alley gold brooch; Sir. and Mrs. John. Harry Pugh, birthday oake; Miss Dulson, silver thim- ble Miss Bessie Woods, box of handkerchiefs Messrs. J. and T. Sherlock. silver-baekecl brush: tho Slisses Lucy and Lydia Sherlock. silver and cut-glass smelling bottle; Miss Lucy Mealor (Lit- tie Aestori), case of scent; Mr. and Sirs. Alin'ii' ton, silver and cut-glass scent bottle; Sliss Gert- ■rudeOkiit, "vyh.ro elxmybllckeà hand mirror; Mr. J. Gibson, silver-mounted purse; Mr. J. Smith, bras- inkstand; Sir. Ernest Reynolds, jewel ease Sir and Mrs. Bristor (The Slill), case of hanclkeV- chiefs; Mr. Arthur Wright, photo frame; Sliss HiJda Crisp, handkerchief case; Mr. Walter Elli- son, handkerchiefs and ctse; Mr. IVr. R. Argyle, box of scent and scent- sprny; the Slisses L. and p. Ashton, white ebony-backed hand mirror Mis=i Ethel Birch (Neston), phot, kid gloves, and, box cf chocolates; Mr. P. Swift (Neston), silver and giass hair pin case Air. J, Hancock (Npston) kid g!on9; Sir. II. Ellison, writing case.; Mr W. Norman, lady's companon; Slessrs. W. Poilard and R. Cross. scent bottle and case; Sliss S. Pollard (Burton), pearl necklace; Slessr* J. and A. Pugh, handercHef case; Miss F. OkiIl and Mr. Handal, Morecef) bound album; M'ss E. Ashton, silk handkerchief case; Messrs. G. am3; L. Taylor case of scent: Sir. Ernest Johnson, fancy handkerchiefs; the Misses A. Penketh and E, Jones, nightdress case: Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Slason sdk handkerchief case and pincushion; M:s -IT. Bet-hell, photo frame; A. and Sir. 11: n-1 'I II. rug-o, Morocco bound photo- i.lbtirr, Sliss Davies, handkerchief case; Mr. W. Fearer-done faii of ostrich feathers, Sir. J. II. Pugh, birthday

MOAT FARM'S NEW OWNIFT? .Tl)e Sloat F_arm at Covering, the scene of the recent tnvedy t, h f- s(:ono of t l it) tr7i,e( l y. will remain practically the same as when was m possession. As arranged by the executors there was no public s,,ile of the effects, and the new owner of the farm. Mr. Hubert Cowlcv, of Blunsdon, near Swindon, has concluded a private treaty, whereby he takes over the whole of Dougal's stock, furniture, clothing, and other effects, including a small steam motor-car. Miss belongings were removed by her relatives Since be]onill!1:f! were rpD!m'f'd by twr l'P.1ati W' Binee purchasing the Moat Farm, Mr. Cowley has been deluged with letters—hundreds being applications for situations on the farm, and many being offers to rent or buy the propertv. HAWARDEN RURAL COUNCIL. A meeting of the Hawarden Rural Council was held last week at Broughton Workhouse, Mr. W Fryer presiding. The following motion on the agenda paper stood in the name of Sir. Ford "That in view of the Clerk's (Mr. H. G. Roberts) repeated proofs that the value of his services to the Council are more than he recei ves in salary the Council now agree to make his salary £ 300 Sir Ford said that when the Clerk saw the motion he had asked liiin to withdraw it, M.S the Council had been so spontaneous in their appreciation of his services. He therefore withdrew his motion (Applause). The Board of Trade wrote with reference to the proposed outfall sewer at Queen's Ferry, enclosing a letter of the Dee Conservancy Board, impoam? the foUowin? conrhtwnR before approving of the plans :-ilt care be taken to prevent solids from getting into the river. and that the effluent l>e punned so as not to sohdifv the and and cause sho?s to be formed."—Mr Barret i (Sanitary Inspector) did not, think the Coumoil would be committal r themselves the conditions. The filter bed, tanks, and I and through which the sewage would pass would muke that impossible.—Sir. Wright moved and Mr. H. G. i Roberts seconded that be agreed tQ.- Tbe motion was carried,

DTSTRICT INTELLIGENCE. I TARVIN. MUSICAL SUCCESS.—At a recent examination held at Wrexham by the London Incorporated Society of Musicians, MisR M agg-ie Shallcross, of Duddon, Tarvin. gained a first-class certificate Miss Shallcross is a pupil of Mr. J. J. Barker, Tarvin. SAD DEATH.—We regret to announce the death of Mr. James Faulkner. Barrow-lane, Tarvin. which took place at Warrington, on Sunday, at the ago of 30 years. The deceased was at business two days before Christmas. He anticipated visiting his relatives to spend the holidays, and had taken tickets for the purpose He was, however, seized with acute pleurisy and pneumonia supervening, he rapidly sank. Much sympathy with the family in their sad bereavement is felt.

I LITTLE SUTTON. PRESENTATION TO THE POSTMASTER. On Christmas morning a handsome pesent wan made to Mr. Walker, the postmaster of Little Sutton. It consisted of a case of fish knives and forks, and was presented on behalf of the- entire postal staff by Mr. F. Cash, the senior postman. In a few well-chosen words, he asked Mr. and Sirs. Walker to accept the gift from his colleagues and himself as a token of the good feeling whieh existed among them all. The case bore the in- scription: "Presented to Sir. and Sirs. F. Walker by the staff of the Little Sutton Post Office. Christmas, 1903. Mr. Walker gratefully acknow- ledgedme gift and thanked the staff, not only for their generosity, but for the kindly fec-ii ig and cordiality which prompted it.

WILLASTON (WTRRAL). WATCH-NIGHT SERVICES.-The usual watch-night services were held in the Willaston Primitive Methodist, Chapel on Thursday evening, and were conducted by Messrs. J. H. Pugh and John Pineombe. QUOIT BALL The annual ball in connection with the Willastoli Quoit Club was held in the Village Institute on Thursday evening The olub, which was established about 27 years a.go has as its president Mr. Walter Glynn of the Lv( l ilttc, an(. 1 a-- 'tse l i'c f p. Lydia tc. and as its chief patrons Slessrs. T. Claike (Leah:ast, Hell), Clover (Rose Lea) and Haddon iodd (WlJ.ii'.ston Grange). The room was decora- ted for the occasion with bunt,ing-, ctc.. and pre- sented a gay appearance. Ado's (Birkenhead) String Band was in attendance. The committee who made the arrangements and acted as stewards were Messrs Samuel Davies (hon. secretary) G. II Argyle (hOll. treasurer), John Hare (chairman* W. Davies, Joseph Davies. Wm. Millingtoii. F. Bristor, W. Couthup senr. and W. Courhup junr.

PARKGATK. I PROMOTION FOR MR. T. J. GLEAVE. The many friends of Mr. T. J. Gleave, of Tho Grange, Parkgate, will be pleased to hear that he has climbed yet another rung- in the ladder though then- satisfaction will be tinged witl] regret that the step so honourably gained will carry him far afield from the old watering place where he was born and with which he has been closely associated. Mr. Gleave has been twenty years with Price's Patent Candle Company, and aftc-r mf them over oi-Tllt years in the Ln ci pool district.. he has been offered and has accepted art appointment to represent them in Ireland. His new business will take him prac. l ica ly over the whole of Ireland. His firm are, in fact, shewm? their appreciation of his past F,(,,rvIC(,, 111, til??ir in his ability to do 1 aI' tfhi- ngs in the future. He will com- at)U bigger the future. He wi)i com- mence his new duties immediately, but -vnl not finally remove from Parkgate until some time in the coming summer. Sir, Gleave has been closely connected with mJst of the local institutions and servos the Parkgate and Leighton Ward as a member of the Neston and Parkgate Urban District Council, whose mpetinfr4 he has attended withregularity. He will probably resign his i position in the spring. He has acted as chairman of the Finance Committee and the Council's representative on the Education Committee of the Parkgate Infants' School. He was returned after a spirited contest for the ward he now represents with a record poll. As an athlete he won over 50 prizes all over the country for rmlning and hnrdln racing He has been a cricketer for man"y years, and was one of the founders of tho present Neston Cricket, Club, in which he served as hon. secre- I tary for three years and as a member of the com- mittee since its formation. He has always been foremost in promoting the various athletic meet- ings which have been he?d at Parksrate, and he was one of the best known members of the West Cheshire Harriers, of which he was a vice-nresi- dent, and for two years captain. He is also a vice-president of the Liverpool and District f-os, Country Harriers. Mr. Gleave founded the Park- gate Young Tll's Club in conjunction with Dr. Speechley. and was also local hon. swrewurv of the London City Mission.

UTKINTON. ENTERTAINSlEIs T.—An enjoyable entertain- ment was given in the Schoolroom on Tuesday evening, 'there was a good company present. The following was the programme —School song, by the children of the school song, Rov. C. E. Burkitt; song, Miss Robinson recitation, Alaster Robin Hughes bong, Mrs. Burkitt curuot tolo, Air. J. Hinda sung, Aiiws Fit ton song, Mr. Healing; song. Sirs. Burititt; curnot solo, Mr. J. Hmde; song, Sliss Robinson; song, R«v. C. E. Burkitt; recitation, Master Kutnu Hughes; song, Slias Fitton; song, Sir. Healing. A laughable sketch was givon by the Misses FIt LOu doUJ Mr. SicCtair. Sirs, ldughes made an excellent accom- panist. The procecus will be devoted to the funds ot the recreation room.

KiNGSLEi. I A 'ixvAu hiL) Y.—On Tuesday Sir. J. C. bate held an mquc-nt at xvn:Boic-y on the budy ot Jane Aiarsden Aic\Viianneii, aged 51, iiousekeeper at Castle Hill. Air. H. i\. x^inaker appeared lor the relatives. --VViiuan. Aioii^a, War- rington, said deceased was his wile' s tisier. She was subject to heart trouble, but tie did not know that sue had any trOLibic.-Aiiiiie Ackerley, a domestic servant at Castle Hiii, said t.,at. on the morning of uank Holiday she searched for deceased, and found her iying in a puna in the garden. She was quite still, and apparently dead. On Christmas Day deceased was very depressed, and remarked to witness I feel as it tins is to be lILY last Christmas." She afterwards asked her it she ever felt that she would like to die. Wit- ness replied negatively. Deceased then said "Well, I do." She had never threatened to take her life.-Richard Lightfoot, gardener at Castle Hill, deposed to finding tne body in the water, it was pulled out Ly P.C. Eliwood.—The jury decided that deceased was found drowned in a pond at Castle Hill, and that there was no evidence to shew how she got into the water. -«•

KELSALL SALE OF WORK.-In tho National Schools on Wednesday afternoon a sale of work was held in aid of the funds for a new organ for Sc. Phdip's Church. The opening ceremony was performed by Mrs. James Tomkinscn, of Wellington Hall. Dr. Moreton spoke of the Toniktnson fam.ly, and the great interest they had aiways taken in the welfare of the village and its inhabitants, particu- larly mentioning the beautiful east win dew which was placed in the church in memory of the late Colonel Temkinson., The stalls, three in number, presented an attract ve appearance*. Just before tiio sale commenced the Vicar proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the Rev. B. Atknson and all the young ladies for the goodwill and energy thev ad displayed in getting up the bazaar. By clos- mg tIme the stalls were all cleared. Three enjov- able concerts were given, and contributed much to the enjoyment of the evening. The first was in, the hands of the M.sses OkeU, of Barrow, the remaining part of the programme being furnished by Miss Jessie Moore, Messrs. W. Sloore, J. Bunce, ard S-dney Sprang. The accompanist was Mr. Joe Barker, who acqu.tied himself most satisfactorily. Both efforts were largely patronised. Miss Jess o Moore and Messrs. Bunce and Sprang, wno convulsed the audience with laughter bv their humorous pieces, were frequently ncorod: Up- wards of C40 is expected to be realised.

'I I lk"P t) I. Lt., I. ALhlibliU THEFT OF WHISKY.-At the Over Police Court on Thursday, before Dr. Okell, >Jamuel Cork, of iarporiey, was committed to the sessions on a charge of stealing a buttle ot whisky valued 3s. od., tue property ot toward ii. Young-, wine aud spirit merchant, isantwich.—The prosecu- tors carter ovei took Cork and gave hiin a ride Prisoner said he wanted to get to iNantwieh. although he walked in the ciireccion of Wmstord V\ nile ASiiiingiou was delivering an order, it was alleged that Cork helped himseif to a bottle of wluaity and decamped. This was missed almost immediately. Liun" was arrested later III the after- noon with the whisky m lna possession. .)U..iiiwiM meeting of the hewerage Committee was held at the Fire -Eiugiuc tilouse on Monday morning to decide as tL" the erection of ventilating columns instead of venti- lating Mhatts along tne route ot the sewer now being laid. were present—Sir. Thomas" riodgetts Gordon, chairman, Messrs. Broster dunning-, Spendiovc, Pickering, and the Rev W U, xvi. xiugnes, and the clerk vMr. T. Cawley) — On the proposition oi Air. Cordon, seconded bv the Rev. Air. ilughes, it was unanimously resolved that the clerk write to Sir. Baldwin Latham, the engineer, asking nun whether the vetitilatiii-, columns which he proposed to have placed on the new sewer migtlt not be dispensed with, or, if not all, whether two or three might not suiffce, especially if some of the manhole covers were not made close fitting where there were no houses, and wnether, in the event of his being strongly of opinion that ventilating columns ot some kind were absolutely necessary, he would consider it advisable that they should have lamp column ex, tractors after the manner of J. E. Webb' patent sewer gas extractors. iixvr. „iliL,ai;li DESIONSTRATION.—The demonstration to inaugurate and test the new fire engine was held on Slonday afternoon. The testing of the engine took place outside the Swan Hotel at 1.30, after which an adjournment was made to Sir. Gouiding's field, where competitions took place. The following" brigades wore repre- sented :—Nantwich Volunteer. Nantwich Urban District Council, Whitchureh Urfcan District Council. Whitchurch Volunteers, Chester Hoole Northwic-h and Winsfml. Sledals were presented bv Messrs. Merry weather and SIr. H. L. Wilson tor one, four, and six men drills. The results were as foUcw: -One man manual engine: I, Nantwich Urban District Council Brigade; 2 Sergeant Catherali Hoole; 3, Sergeant Evans Chester. Four men drill: 1, Nantwich Urban District Council Brigade: 2. Chester: 3, Whit- church; 4. Hooie. Six men drill: 1. Nantwich L rb.in District Council Brigade; 2. Hoole; 3. Nantwich VoUmteer; 4, Whitchurch; 5, Chester Mr. W. H. Smith, chief officer Birkenhead Fir^ iirigade. was the judge. The Tarporley and- Clotton i. Band played selections durincr the aiternoon. loa was afterwards provided for the firemen m, the Done Recreation Room, whero the medals were presented to the successful competi- tors by Mrs. Ilughes. A torchlight procession- wa s held in the evening, headted by and Clotton Prize Rand. at which all the brigades wcro represented. The collection taken en route in aid of the Chester Infirmary amouiit-ect to 24 14". 7d. A ball followed in the Town Hail at nine o'clock when there were about 200 present. Air. Barlow s Northwich Band supplied tho music awf Mr. Robert Clav acted as M.C.

INFIRMARY BALL.—The Risrht Worshipful the Mayor of Chester begs to acknowledge with thanks the receipt of the following donations to the Infirmary Ball Fund Sirs. David Hewitt, jEl Is. the Slavoress (Sirs. R. Lomb), 9113. Mrs. Bourne, 103.

HAWARDEN VOLUNTEERS. PRIZE DISTRIBUTION. The annual supper and distribution of prizes of the Hawarden (B) Company of the 2nd V.B. Royal Welch Fusiliers took place on Thursday- evening at the Glynn" Arms Hotel. Captain Swetenham. commanding ths company., presided. and there WHO also present Colonel J. Sheriff Roberts (commanding the 2nd V.B.R.W.F.), Mr. H. B. Toller, Captain Cai-ke, Captain Huilbutt, B.-S.-Sl. Kelly (Sandycroft), Sergt.-Major Ciaridge, etc. The usual loyal toasts were- honoured. The Chairman, addressing the company on the year's work, first of ail thankied thosi ladies and gentlemen who had subscribed so handsomely to the prize and supper fund. and more especialiy for the- libelal and spontaneous way- they had helped to meot the debt on the band fund. After they had got in the quarters subscriptions they would be very little in debt, if the balance was not entirely wiped off. (App.ause.) Speaking of the honours gamed by the company during the year, the Chairman referred to tne Welsh Twenty Shoot. That, he was sorry to say, did not go as well in their part of the countly as m previous years, a fact chiefly due to the witiit, of interest shewn by F Company. There was only one mall in that company who competed against Hawarden, and he was sorry to say that he secured one of the jewels. Hawarden secured the first and second prizes. Colour-Sergt. Bailey took the silv-er jewel with 180 points, and Sergt-Major Claiidge the bronze medal. At the Flintshire County Rifle Association meeting Hawaiden did not do as well as usual with recruits. In 1900 they took the first t-hiee prizes, and during the last. year they secured the third badge through Cyclist Davies. The company was 101 strong, acainst 108 twelvemonths alTo.' On some occasions Hawarden had been the best shoot u g company in th?? battalion, last year they wow third. That was not a great deal to go by, but out of eight re.ruits s?x had become n:'t- c)&M shots. He urged the men to do their utmost to get more recruits in. The ba.nd had now be come the battalion band, and he wanted the com- pany to be a strong one independent of the band. Last year, chiefly on account of the new regula- tions for shooting, there were not quite as many marksmen, but they had more second-class shots. As to the camp the company took 90 men., which he thought was very creditable. It was by far the largest company in o.inp, and it won the prize for the best guard. Turning to the band, he said the men had attended their practices very- well indeed, and he understood they had gained great honours and praise by their playing. If they kept up their practices there was no earthly reason whv they would not eeoi 11egood as I i any bund in that pa.rt. of the country. He did not wish the record of the lat- war in South Africa to i be passed over in Hawarden without some lasting testimonial and recognition of the sacrifice madc. by the men who went out. He had tbougbt, of putting up a tablet in the .armoury, with the names of all the men who went out lie had spoken to the Colonel a.bout tho matter, and had received his consent to carry it out. In conclusion, Captain Swetenham mentioned that when he took over the company it was £21.5 in debt. Now the debit "balance was £ 10. Colonel Sheriff Roberts then distributed the prizes. Having done so he proposed the toost of "His Majesty's Forces" coupling with 'it the Hawarden Company and the Sandycroft Batterv of the 1st C. and C.R.G A. Speaking of the newly-formed Sandycroft Battery he said h" wel- comed them because of the kindness of Mr. Sydney- Taylor. He had been one of the best and staunchest supporters of the Ha warden Company. Turning to the Hawarden Cornpany, lie congratu- lated Captain Swetenham on his restoration to health. He was one of the- best officers the Hawarden Company had, and one of the best oncers -ny compmy could have—(applause;—and ho commanded one of the finest compani% in the battalion. At the p?ent time it was the strongest company and he congratulated them on their splendid behaviour during the past year. They had an easy camp and speaking generally, lie considered it was one of the most- instructive camps they had ever had. He considered it was a good deal bettor than the frightful "slogging" they get on Salisbury- Plain which he considered was more or less waste of time. The ordinary brigade camps taught them more Last year the camp was eminently successful. In conclusion,, he thanked them for the splendid way they had sup- ported him. Colour-Sergt. Bailey- and B.-S.-M. Koily re- sponded. Ihe health ot the colonel was aicerwarcis cor- dially drunk. Th? foUowin? is th? pr?zo !;&t:—Wc!?h Twenty Shoot: Colr.-Seret Bailey silver medal; Spr?t- Major Claride bronzp medal Flintshire Count v Riflo Association. Corpl W.' Davies 2nd b?.d?'?; Sergt Catherali, 3rd badge; Cyclist. Diviei, 3rd badge (recruits). Best N.C.O. 1. Colr.-Ser-,t, i Bailey ciip-di Ils 34, class firing 89 company- shoot 90. total 123.5; 2 Sergt. Catherali—drills 34. class-firing- 90 company shoot 81. total 119.5. Cup for best, old member: Private F. Bellis. Cup for best recruit, and prize for bugler who attends most company drills and battalion practices: Bugler A. W. Ellis. Drill attendance Hawarden district: 1 Private H. Beliis; 2, Private C Wil- liams; 3. Private A. Catherali; 4 Lance Corpl J. Fennah; 5 Corpl W. p-rvien, Sandycroft and Buckley district: 1, Lance-Corpl. A. G. "Williams; 2, Lance-Corpl. R. Jones, 3, Private J. Davies; 4, Private C. Davison. Shot ton district: 1. Pri- vate T. J. Slassey; 2 Private W. Jones; 3, Pri- vate A. Cooper. Recruits' drills: 1. Private H. Ellis; 2. Private II. Davies; 3, Cyclist W. Davies; 4. Private J. Parry. Band prizes Corpl. Davies, Corpl. E. Wright, La.nce-Corp!. Evans, Privates F. Beliis G. W. Beliis W. Jones, A. Citherall, H. Bell's. Hart well. Thompson, W. H. Jones, T. Ellis, E. Jones. E Griffiths and A. Croft. Shooting—Recruits: 1 Cyclist W. Davie, 2. Bugler Ellis; 3. Private J. Parry; 4, Private H. Davies. Marksmen who made 80 points and over m class-firing: 1. Coir.-Sergt.. Bailey; 2, Sergt. Catherali; 3, Lance-Sergi. H. Jones, Marksmen who make 70 points and over in class-firing: 1, Sergt.-Slajor Ciaridge; 2. Sergt. Bailey; 3, Pri- vato F. BeiUs. Second- lass shots: 1, Corpl. W. Davies; 2, Corpl. E Catherali; 3, Lanco-Corpl. R. Jones; 4, Captain Swetenham; 5. Lanoe- Corpl. J. Fennah; 6 Private Evan Ellis; 7, Lance- Corpl. G. Evans; 8 Private W. Dailingtoi 9. Private E. Beliis; 10, Private W. Jones. Conso- lation competition: 1. Sergt. F. Pike; 2. Private J. Hartwell; 3, Private 11 E lis. Range prizes— 200 yards: Sergt. Bailey, 500; Coir.-Sergt. Bailey, üOO; Sergt.-Major Ciaridge. Section prizes: 1, Sergt. J. Cathorall (No. 2 section); 2, Sergt. SI. Johnson (No. 3 section). Maxim gun team for drill: 1, Sergt. N. Johnson; 2, Co pi. W. Davies. Maxim gun team for scores 1, Lanco-Corpl. A. G. Williams; 2, Private T. J- Massey.

CITY POLICE COURT. — WEDNESDAY.—Before Mr. John Thompson (in the chair), and Slessrs. B. C. Roberts and i'. Skipwith. AN LNNATURAL MOTHER. Slary \Ianne,- ii, of Liverpool, wLL, charged with begging in Brook-street on Tuesday, and further with wilfully exposing her child, aged five years, in a mariner likely to cause it unnecessary suffer- ing.—P.C. hone said that at IO.SU OIl the previous night, when it was freezing hard, lie met prisoner bogging from door to door. She had in her cus- tody a child aged about five years, who was not ciothcd as it ought to have been, and, besides having In boots on its feet, was hatless. It was walking, and crying and saying it was cold and tired.—Sergeant 1. T. Jones said that about 10 o'clock on Alondav night he saw prisoner in Fore- gate-street with the child on her arm. She had one of the latter's shoes and stockings in her hand, and the child was crying bitterly. —Prisoner, wh o said she was looking for lodgings, was sent to prison for one week for begging and one month with liard labour on the second charge, the sen- tences to run concurrently. In the meantime tho child would be kept in the Workhouse. CHARGE OF ASSAULT.—Robert Lloyd. 1,0. Belgrave-place, was summoned by Charles Dean, 4. jielgrave-place, for assault on Saturday. Tho evidence shewed that the men are coachmen and had been in tho same employment. About i W') o'clock on Saturday afternoon complainant and a friend named William Aspey were talking near the entrance to Queen's Park. when Lloyd, wh) complainant said was helplessly drunk, came up. After some argument they proceeded, followed by defendant, to Belgrave-place, where the latter came up and wanted to fight. This the com- plainant refused to do, stating that he wished to have no connection with defendant, who replied with abuse. He then attempted to strike co n- plainant, but hit the friend instead.—Defendant contradicted these statements, and said if com- plainant had gone into his house there would have been no bother.—The case was dismissed on pavment of costs. AN IRISHSIAN'S COLD BATH.—Patrick Mahoncv, an Irish labourer, of no settled and who appeared in the dock clothed in blankets only, was charged with being dl unk on the cairl side on Tuesday morning. Asked whether lie was guilty or not guilty, prisoner replied that Ie had fallen into the canal.—P.C. Pruett said he had found the prisoner helplessly drunk c.n the canal side at Boughton on the previous morning. He had been in the canal, but fad been brought out by two men.—The Chief Constable (Mr. J. H. Laybourno) said prisoner had got out once, but he might not get out again. His clothes were then drying, and that accounted for his appearing clad only in blankets.—Prisoner, who seemed hig-illy amused at his position, said he intended starting work that morning at the Sewerage Works.—He was discharged. THURSDAY.—Before Mr. F. Skipwith. ALLEGED IMPUDENT THEFTS.- Patrick Connab. lesiding at Steven-street, pleaded guilty to stealing a shilling and an oil-can, the property of Mary Slassey, 54. Sealand-road, and an oil-can belonging to Emily Pickford, on the 8th ult. The Chief Constable stated that prisoner called at ihe. house of Mrs. Slassey and asked if she wanted any oil. She ordered some, for which she paid him a shilling in advance f-nd gave him a can It transpired that prisoner had no oil to sell, and he then absconded. As complainant had not ap- neared a remand would be necessary.—Detecti ■•> Hughes statei that prisoner was at one time an oil-vendor, and that the complainants were in 'he habit of purchasing oil from him.—Prisoner was remanded.

NORTHOP PETTY SESSIONS.-Tlie Northop Pettv Sessional Court was held on Thursday, when Sir. T. Bate preided, the other magistrates beinf  kr -\TPral Mr" ?- Lee ?ancock. and ?'' NN. H. Llovd.-Mr. W;lter Peel, North"?ate Brewery, presented plans of alterations to the -;ivan inn, Golftyn. These were approve.) Benjamin Gitr-cns, Soughton, was fined Is. and cost,; for ko.cpn.g two do?. without a licence. vr.rC. ?\\h? itchcad said defendant had three dos? and one liccncc.For drunkenness. Henrv Swift Connah s Quay, was fined 2s. 6d. and costs, and Thomas James Hughes, Connah's Quay, lis. in- cluding costg.-Robcrt Rowlands, Northop, was fined Is. and costs for keeping a dog without a licence.Slary Owens, of Flint, was fined 2s 6d and costs for drunkenness at Connah's Quay.- Arthur Hughes, Flint, was summoned for being drunk and refusing to quit the Swan Inn, Golftvn. and for assaulting the landlord. John Sutton Complainant said that on the night of December lath defendant came drunk into his house He refused to leave, and tore his (witness') clothing, ihomas Thomas. an ironworker, corroborated Defendant was fined 2s. 6d. and costs in each case (25,i. in all), and was bound over to keep the peace for twelve months in his own surety of -P20 —Jane Hughes, of Connah's Quay, who. besides having her head bandaged, had s everal black marks on her face, summoned her husband. Peter Hughes, for assault Complainant said that on Saturday night her husband, who was not sober, struck her several blows on the face with his fist. She had to inn out of the house for protection. Defendant, had frequently committed similar assaults. The Bench fined defendant ;Cl incitidlnf-r costs, and granted his wife a separation order for 7s. 6d a week.

NESTON. A MATERNAL TEA-PAF,TY—Last week the members of the mothers' sewing meeting, conducted by Mrs. Turner (the Vicarage), were entertained by their president at a capital tea at Miss Birch s rooms. Mrs. Turner herself pre- sided. NESTON YOUTH DIES ABROAD.-The sad i. ntimation has re?hed Neston of the death at P?ranahyb? of Harold Jennin?. voun?r son of Mr. J ho.n? Jennu?s of B)pn?rth. Hinderton- road, Neston. The deceased, who was only 1(> years of age, went out with a relative a little over a year ago and died on Monday last. Only very meagre details are to hand as vet the announce- ment having of course been transmitted to his home hy cablegram. He was well-known in the Neston district. PROMINENT INVALIDS.-Nestonians will be glad to learn that two individuals, who in their lespectivo spheres could ill be spared, are now making rapid strides towards con vale.scence-viz., the Rev. J Towert. who at the Presbyterian Church on Monday was sufficiently recovered from his illness, caused chiefly through overwork, to be able to efficiently tie the knot matrimonal; and Mr. James Platt. the chairman of the District Council Water Committee, who although not yet able to leave the hoiise, is so rapidly progressing towards recovery that that desirable consummation may shortly be expected. WESLEYAN SUNDAY SCHOOL CONCERT. -The annual entertainment in connection with the Neston Sunday. School was held in the schoolroom on Thursday evening. Sir. William Davies, of Copley, i horn ton Hough, presided, and a large miscellaneous programme, consisting of songs, duets, clitiaogues, recitations, &c., was rendered by the I juveuile artIsts in a style that reflected much credit both on themselves and their kind teachers, Miss Wmtehead and Miss Lillie Peers. There were very frequent outburst* of applause, among those who were thus honoured being a gentleman pianist of the mature age or six years At the close Sir. W" Tranter proposed, and Air. Walter Piatt seconded, a coidial vote of thanks to those who had taken part, the motion being very heartily carried.

LATEST MARKETS & FAIRS (See alto pane 3.) LONDON CORN. FRIDA Y.-Wheat and flour St -adv. Bariev, oats ,nnd maiae firm. American qii"tt.lions nf whMat and corn some dearer. Printed and published for and an behalf of th* Oheahne and North Wales N"JtPP.t' Company, limited, • v JAMES ALBERT BTRCIlALL. at, the C7te»Air<j Obiy*- er Office, g. Bridsre-street, ja th, City of Oh^j -i-SiTvii y. January 2.1904.

CHRISTM AST 1 DE. (,See (ilsopage 6.) TREAT TO OLD PEOPLE. The annual treat to the aged poor of the city- was given on Wednesday in the Drill Hall, which was kindly lent for the purpose by the officers of the Volunteer corps. A liberal tea was provided for 500 old people by the effoits of the committee, of whom the Mayor is president, Mr. W. T. Davies chairman, Sir. W. Ferguson and Mr. C C Bowles secretaries, and Air. W. Denson treasurer. The following were the lady collectors: -Mes- dames Avery and Hoeley, and the Misses D. Davidson, Day, Cook. Eastwood (2), Edwards. Griffiths, James, Johnson, Kershaw, Marshall. Meacock, Phillips, Sellers and Storrar. Most of these ladies at the tables were assisted bv a num- ber of ladies and gentlemen. The tea was sup- plied by Mr. J. Williamson, Brooktre.et. The hall was gaily d2cora.te,d with banners and bunting. The Mayor (Sir. R. Lamb), who was accompanied on the piatform by the Mayoress and the Sheriff (Mr. D. L Hewitt) and Mrs. Hewitt, gave a few words of heartv seasonable greetings and good wishes. At intervals during the tea Miss Bowles played selec-tioiti on the pianoforte. After the tables were removed a pleasant entertainment, kindly provided by Mr. W. W. Dodd and party. was given. The following was the. programme Prayer, Mr. Bowles; add:ess, the Chairman (Sir. W. Dpiison) reading. Mr. i. W. Garnett; violin solo. Mr. Baird; part song, the Party; song-. Miss Annie Williams; vocal duet. "Excdsior," Mr. M:H?r and Mr. W. W. Dodd; song, "The ViHage Blacksmith, Mr. T. A. Dodd; part50ng, "Count! C otiiit your Blessings" the Party; violin solo, Mr. Baird; part-song, the Party; song. Miss A. Wil- liams; recitation, Mr. W. Garnett; vocal duet. Mrs. W. W. Dodd and Miss Dodd; song, Mr. Mil- ler; part-jong. "Looking This Way," the Party; I'ddress, Mr. T. S. Bishop. Ail the items were much appreciated the old people joining heartily in the choruses of the part-songs The seasonable and stirring address of Mr. Bishop was listened to with marked attention. A vote of thanks, moved by Sir. Ferguson and seconded by Mr. W. E. Biown, to the lady collectors for their labours, to Lieut.-Colonel T. J. Smith and Major Fountain for the loan of the hall, and to ad who had helped to make the treat a s-uccess brought, a most en- joyahie evening to a close. On leaving the hall each person was presented with a four-pound loaf and four ounces of tea. Two hundred additional poor persons, who were too infirm to attend the entertainment, received the same seasonable gifts at. their own homes, by sending to th3 hall after the meeting was over. Upwards of a ton weight of bread and 1,- wt.. of tea were distributed during the evening, and would brighten many a lowiy and perhaps dreary home for the coming of the New Year. BROUGHTON WORKHOUSrE. Ihe annuel entertainment to the inmates of the Broughton Workhouse was given on Wednesday evening, and proved successful in every way. Tiie proceedings took place in the dining hall, which had been beautifully decorated for the occasion by the master and matron (Mr. and Mrs. George Roberts). An excellent tea was provided for the inmates, many of whom had to be carried to their places, and among those who sat at the table was the veteran Mrs Sarah Turner, who in a few months will become a centenarian. A large and lieavny-laden Cnristmas tree was provided, and the various useful articles it bore. such as shawls. tea. pipes, tobacco, scarves, pinafores, toys and aprons, were distributed to the inmates by Miss Thom (Hawarden) and Mrs. Hodges (Broughton). A concert was afterwards held, and was presided over by Mr. W. Fryer chairman of the Hawarden Boat d of Guardians and Rural Council. In thank- ing the subscribers. Mr. Fryer remarked that the Christmas tree had been laden with a larger num- ber of goods than on former occasions. The first portion of the concert was given by thejollowing iceal a: tists —Miss Vickers Miss Evans, Miss Grc Houlgrave., Miss Kate Peters, Miss Ada Roberts Mr. James Downev, Mr. Shingler, Mr. Sam Hayes Mr. W. Li. Hughes. Mr. Davies Hayes, Mr. Frank Jones and Master W. Roberts. The second part was supplied by the following members of the Ohio minstrel troupe:—Slessrs P. Stubbs (interlocutor), A. Hill, G. Powell, L. H. Sinclair A. Taylor. NN. Thornaq H. Darlington. A. Stevenson W. Spratt, Moore (pianist), F. Owen and H. J. Coleman (first violins), J. Jones (second vioiin). and W. Pennington (cornet). The ar companiments were played by Miss Vickers, Miss Shingler and Mr. T Roberts. The whole arrangements were in the hands of Mr. G. Jones (relieving officer) and Mr. G. Roberts (master).

■ ROS ETT. (See also vane 7.) srDA Y SCHOOL ANNIVERSARY. —On bunday the Congregationalists held their Sunday school anniversary, w-hich is alwavs looke-d for- ward to with considerable interest. Thi& year's proved particularly successful, being well attended throughout the day. The. afternoon service took place at Trevalyn Chapel, presided over by Sir. Pncha.rd (superintendent), who made some excel- lent remarks. Songs and recitations were given by the children, the following taking part:- Lizzlo Part in, Gladys Parry, W. Roberts, Wiilie Jones, Bella Huxley. J. Liversage and Ruth Liversage. Addresses were given bv Mr. J. Fletcher, Mr. E. Wyles, Mr. David Huxley, etc. opocial hymns were sung. The evening service took place at Lavister Chapel, Mr. Prichard again presiding. The following again took part: --Ma.y Kendnck, Laura Hughes, Lizzie Partin, Gwennie Williams. Dora Williams, Sydney Williams, Gladys Parry, Trevor Parry, John Percival. J. S. Parry and Ruth Liversage. Addresses were de- livered by Sir. T. Parry, Mr. S Williams, Sir. S. Liversage, and Mr. J. Liversage. Sonsrs and short, musical pieces were rendered during the evening. Sirs. Watkin (Pulford) pi-esided Wt tho orgall.

I CONNAH'S QUAY. I (See also pane 7.) INSURANCE AGENTS' MEETING.-On Monday evening a public meeting of insurance agents of Connah's Quay, Shotton and .Queen's Ferry was held to take into consideration the advisability or otherwise of joining the insurance Onion. There were a good number present, among whom was a delegate specially sent down from Slanchester, who urged upon all present to join the union, and thereby protect themselves. If they joined the union they would not only be entitled to tho best legal advice, but would aiso receive benefits in case of sickness.—Several present severely condemned the action of some oompanies regarding their mode of getting bu-i- ness.—It was unanimously agreed to join the union