The North Wales Chronicle and Advertiser for the Principality

WHEN some diabolical tragedy has been com- mitted, those living in the immediate neighbour- hood are frequently assailed with the remarks of a number of old fogies that No mail's life is safe when cmt of his own house." Man, we know, in his walks abroad, is liable to all kinds of dangers, seen and unseen, and in most cases is prepared to take his chance. Of late years, however, a new danger has presented itseif, against which it is the duty of 11,11 respectable male members of society to guard very carefslly, as absence of caution may lead to consequences which will shatter a reputation hitherto unblemished. There is a schoolboy's saying, that sticks and stones will break bones, but calling "—that is unkind reiiiarks- will not hurt." This is true in many cases whilst the scholar is in the servitude of his teacher, but when lie once gets out into the world and faces life in all its sternness, he is made acquainted with the fact that there are such tilings as actions for libel, imprisonment for slander, and retribution for wilful misrepresenta- tion. The danger to which we wish particilarly to refer is that of the opportunity given to worth- less women, and designing juveniles of the same sex, to trump up cases of criminal and indecent assaults; and we are forced to touch on this unpleasant topic by the introduction on Monday into a local Police Court, of a case which the magistrates, very properly, thought fit to dismiss. A highly respectable young man had occasion to be in the neighbourhood of Conway early one day during the close of last month, when lie was met by a policeman, who said he had been instructed to apprehend him on a charge, which he named. Djspite his statement that he was elsewhere at the time at which the alleged offence was said to have taken place, the young man was compelled to go to tho police station, where he was locked up. A woman, and a child who had just entered upon her teens, tliencamo forward, and asserted most positively that it was be and lie only who had committed the offence. With such a charge confronting him, what could the defen- dant do? Little or nothing but telegraph to those whom he knew,to come forward and satisfy the police that he would be forthcoming when called upon to make his appearance before the magistrates. At a late hour that night he was released; but in horrible suspense he was allowed to pass Christmastide. The case, as we have said, came on for hearing on Monday, and was dismissed, th" Chairman, tho Rev. WIL- LIAM YKN'ABLES WILLIAMS, remarking that the Delicti were unanimously of opinion that this was "a wicked and maliciously trumped-up case against tha young man, who left the court without a stain upon his character." Not very long ago a Surrey magistrate, the fatbor of a large family, found himself in a similar position to MC ARTHUR JOKES, with this difference that his aeeuser absconded whilst the police were en- gaged in weaving the story of her past life, which conclusively showed that in preferring such a charge she had no other aim than ex- torting money, and in default of paltry pelf, branding her unhappy victim with iguoming. We can call to mind two other instances in which, one a clergyman, and the other a hamster, were mortified by being called upon to appear before magistrates on similar clifcrges, the offences being alleged to have taken place whilst travelling in third class compartments of railway carriages. In both of these cases the charges were refuted and the women sent to gaol for lengthened terms. The police, in the case of Mr ARTHUR JONES, appear to have been altogether too precipitate in their action, know- ing as they did the character of the person by whom the charge was brought. The police, not only in North Wales, but throughout the coun-bry, very frequently do not exercise the discretion that could be desired. They forcibly illustrate the following Oh, Pa, there is an awful fight around the corner." "Yes," Paid Pz, indifferently. "And one man has eliewel the other's ear off." "Yes." And the other man has shot off his pistol and killed a baby." "Poor baby," yawned Pa. "AINT yon going round there ? Presently," said he. In a short time everything became quiet, and Pa rushed frantically around the corner and arrested an oll woman-for selling matches. Pa was a policeman It is now for the police at Conway to eonsiller whether or not a charge of perjury should be brought, or whether the ease can be allowed to drop as one of mistaken identity.

WIlES lecturing before the Monai Society of Natural Science and Literature in Bangor last week, Dr, H. D, RmlERTs referred to the Cam- bridge University local lectures and classes scheme, giving some account of their origin, purpose and method, and enlarging upon the incalculable boon which they had proved, especially to the Northumbrian miners, a large number of whom are alive to the importance of higher education. To many, the system which Mr ROBERTS explained, was no new thing, hut these were undoubtedly those present who heard for the first time the extraordinary results particularised. The movement origi- nated nearly twelve years ago in consequence of a number of memorials having been presented to the University of Cambridge, pointing out the difficulties which were experienced in obtaining higher education in provincial towns. The experiment of holding courses of lectures was tried and proved satisfactory, and from cheap courses on political economy and history, lectnwrs proceeded to science and other useful branches. Examinations were held at the con- clusion of each term, and to those who suc- ceeded in gaining the necessary number of marks, certificates were granted. With a view of still further stimulating students to take up other studies, the VICE-CHANCELLOR of the University granted a eertificate to those who could produce six term certificate". This cer- tificate, whilst being valtiable in one seune, was valueleaa &11 attaching in aeywty the student to the University under whose guidance he had worked his way. What Dr. ROPERTS, who is the ASSISTANT-SKCRKTAHY to the Syndicate, pro. posed in his very interesting report of visits to centres between Kaster, 1882, and Easter, 1883, —or if he did not propose it he at anyrate allowed the state of feeling existing on the mat- ter—was that this certificate should berecognise(I by the University. Whether this suggestion will be acted upon yet remains to be seen, but if the older Universities do not see their way to do so, the North Wales College and others, which it is proposed to establish in various parts of the country, may well consider the matter. In the scheme for the Charter for the College, which we are anxiously looking forward to in Bangor, ample provision is made for those who are desirous of attending lec- tures, even though they be not matriculated students and the broadness of the second clause, which specially deals with this point, will, we think, be a cause for general admiration when it becomes better known. Local financial difficulties have proved the stumbling block to the still greater progress of the Cambridge University local lectures and classes scheme, but by a fortuitous circumstance those in and around Bangor are ensured against losing such vast privileges on this score. Those who take a gloomy viow of the prospect of a failure in the number of students at the College need not despair if they pause for a moment to consider the vast power it is likely to prove to those who wish to increase their knowledge by attending lectures and classes without being compelled to proceed to degrees.

RECENTLY there has been a crop of instances in which Life Assurance has been abused, and the publication of the details of one fraud would seem only to form the basis of similar tricks on the part of those who, disregarding the lines of truth, let nothing short of murder come between them and the attainment of their own designs. A labourer named COMMINS, forty-eight years of age, committed suicide by hanging on Saturday, and at the iuquest two days later, it was elicited that the woman with whom he lodged, MARY CORLESS, had insured his life in several offices. An anonymous letter, directed to the CORONER, unearthed this fact, and he considered it his duty to direct the attention of the jury to the inquiry whether anyone had caused the man's death? Though the twelve good men, and true came to the conclusion that COMMINS deprived himself of the vital spark by strangulation, whilst in a state of unsound mind, they very properly registered it as their opinion that there were some suspicious cir- cumstances associated with the tragedy, and upon being told that the woman CORLESS held policies on the lives of other persons in the same town, informed the CORONER that they thought the Assurance Companies were to blame. It is a moot question with some whether policies are valid and effectual in cases of -suicide. Reference, however, to theconditions of assurance of a highly respectable company- the North British and Mercantile—shows us that a policy granted to a person on his own life shall become null and void if he die by his own hands within two years after the date of the policy. This forfeiture, however, does not extend to policies which have been bono fide assigned to third parties for onerous causes, and of which assignment notice shall have been given to the Corporation not less than one month previous to death. Nor does it extend to assurances effected by one person on the life of another. Clearly according to this clause—if the clauses of the companies in which Mrs CORLESS is insured are the same -she is entitled to payment; but it may fairly be asked can her intention be honest in ensuring the lives of those who are little more than strangers to her ? Certainly in the interest of the public generally, and of Assurance Companies in particular, the law should be made to assert itself upon those who seek to obtain money by means which are directly opposed to morality and the ordinary usages of society.

THERE was a ruerry party at the White Hart Inn, New Brighton, Minera, on Christmas Eve, though each visitor paid for that which he con- sumed. The hostelry was gaily decorated and illuminated, and in a conspicuous position the comely landlady had placed what SHAKESPEARE calls in his Titus and Adronieus," the buhiful mistletoe." Those unacquainted with the Scandinavian story ia which BALDER, the Apollo of tho North, was slain by an arrow made of mistletoe, may be inclined to believe that the immortal Bard spoke some- what harshly of the bough which is found in so many homes at Christmas, but bulrful itcertainly proved to one of the company at the White Hart Inn on the 24tn December last. At the County Petty Sessions at Wrexham, on Monday, Mrs M. DAVIES, the landlady in question, figured in court as complainant, tho defendant being ROEICET MORRIS, a miner. The charge was that of a common assault. MORRIS, it was alleged, took rather more than Mrs DAVIES thought was good for him, and fearing, it may be assumed, that he might spoil his dinner on the following day, she refused to give him any more. It was for this that he committed a breach of the law. The amusing part of the story follows. MORRIS, through his solicitor, Mr OWEN G. JONES, had an ingenious defence. He asserted that the complainant wished to kiss him under the mistletoe, the priee of a kiss being the cost of a quart of beer for the good of the company, in accordance with a custom of the country." Thill was a joke which the defendant said he could not see the cream of, for he seems to have had a conscientious objection because the host was a "married woman." Alas, poor fellow, he got the worst of it, for the magis- trates lie'ievei Mrs DAVIES' tale, and directed that the uugallant miner should pay £ 1 for his enactment at the White Hart Inn, New Brighton, Minera, on Christmas Eve, 1883.

THE sanitary condition of bakehouses is made the subject of a circular issued by the Local Government Board, which local inspectors and traders would do well to note. The principal provision of the Factory and Work- shops Acts, 1883, relating to this matter provide:—(1) no water-closet, earth-closet, privy, or ash pit shall be within or communicate directly with the bakehouse; (2) any cistern for supplying water to the bakehouse shall be separate and distinct from any cistern for supplying water to a water-closet; and (3) no drain or pipe for carrying off fiecal or sewage matter shall have an opening within the bake. house. Any person who lets or suffers to be occupied, or who occupies, any room or place as a bakehouse in contravention of this enactment will be liable on summary codviction to a fine not exceeding 40s, and to a further fine not exceeding 5s for every day during which any room Dr place is so occupied after a eanviction. The Local Government Board express a hope that the requirements of the law in this respect will be systematically and efficiently enforced.

IT was not till the autumn of last year that a I movement was set on foot to construct an additional line of railway in North Wales, and when the quostion was discussed in Anglesey and Carnarvon, it was doubtful whether the machinery of Parliament would allow a Bill being framed and presented in compliance with the standing orders of the House of Commons. It is gratifying now to find that, despite the difficulty at first experienced in preparing plans, the promoters of the Anglesey and Carnarvon Direct Railway, liavo succeeded in ensuring a place among the private Bills of the forthcom- ing Session. The length of the line to be 7 niiles 2 furlongs 8 chains, £ 44,074; pier, 4 furlongs,4 chains in length, Ell,209; grand total, £ 55,283. Mr Thomas Lloyd is the engineer.

CITY AND COUNTRY CHIT-CHAT. The residence of the late Mr Warner, Bryn Menai, has not yet found a tenant. Lord Penrhyn, after spending a short time at his town residence, returned to Penrhyn Castle last week. It is probable that Mr Whitley, M.P. for Liverpool, will be one of the speakers at a dinner which it is proposed shortly to give in connection with the Carnarvonshire and Anglesey Conservative Club. It will probably not be before March that the business of the BMgOL-County Conrt will be conducted in tho Masonic Hall. Workmen are now at present busily engaged in fitting up the Registrar's offices. In a certain city in North Wales—that's a good beginning, now isn't it ?-tie New POl't Office has been looking into the affairs of the Old Post Office. The result is that the Old Post Office authorities hat-e got the best of it, and obscured the light of the New Post Office. Householders of Bangor would do well to aid the assistant overseer, Mr H. T. Roberts, all they can by paying their arrears of rates. The Board of Guardians are determined that if all outstanding sums are not paid by their next meeting, to institute proceedings in the Police Court. Bangor is growing in size and importance every (lay. I am given to understand that from eighteen to twenty houses will shortly be erected on the Garth-road, between the schools in that parlu of the city and Frcswylfa. Building operatims in the neighbourhood of Glanadda aro now very extensive. The Link is the title of a new shilling magazine announced to make its appearance this month. Among the contributors to the first and succeeding numbers are Mr Justin M'Carthv, M.P., Mr C. Lloyd Morgan, Mr Herbert "Jermiugham, M.P., and Mr F. Ernest Power, whoso original poems have frequently appeared in the Xorlh U oh* Chronicle. According to an almanack issued by a con- temporary, it would seem that Ascension Thursday will this year take p)aceonaWed- nesday. Dat's queerious," as "Friday" .e,;d in ;h. pantomime produced by Miss Morton at the Penrhyn Hall last week. There's ccrtainly a mistake somewhere, and I am reminded of the anecdote in which a minister once announced there will be no chapel in this church next Sunday, in conse- quence of the walls being about to be white- washed with yellow ochre." Captain E. H. Veruey, R.N., of Rhianfa, is ono of the Provisional Committee of the Palace Club, Palace Chambers, 9, Bridge-street, West- minster, London, which is now in course of for- mation. The club is one where luncheons, re- freshments, etc., can be obtained at reasonable prices in well appointed rooms, and in select society. The annual subscription for town members is two guineas, and for country mem- bers one guinea. There is an entrance fee of one guinea, but the first 150 are exempt from paying this fee. Glanadda has so increased in size and im- portance, and is likely to do so to a still greater extent, that it has been decided to erect a church there as soon as funds can he collected. The inconvenience to which the inhabitants of that portion of Bangor are now subjected are great, as in inclement weather they are often prevented from attending the Cathedral or St. James' Church. The Bishop has headed the subscription list with 1200. It is intended to build a portion of a church, a part of a nave to accomodate 200 people, and to enlarge it gradually according to the growth of the popu- lation. The Bev. John Morgan, vicar of Bangor, has been appointed secretary to the committee. It is now no secret that Mr Charles Davies, the admired tenor of the Bangor Cathedral, has tendered his resignation to the Dean and Chapter, who have accepted it. The decision of Mr Davies will, I am sure, be generally regretted, as it will be difficult to supply his place with a man equally experienced in cathedral work-especially as a soloist. Should MrBavies think of leaving Bangor, which I am not aware he has as yet decided to do, I trust he will give the citizens a similar treat to that which lie provided in January of last year, when among the artistes who made their appearance at the Penrhyn Hall was Miss Mary Davies. That concert, it not the best in point of talent ever given in Bangor, was certainly the most liberally patronised by the aristocracy in the neighbour- hood, EYES AND EARS.

VALE OF CLWYD NOTES. The New Year has had some influence on public business. The Ruthin Town Council met on Thursday week instead of Friday, and had difficulty in securing a quorum. The Rhyl Commissioners, which met on New Year's Day, also had no business of public interest before them. The preliminary meeting in view of the coming All England Ploughing Match at Rhyl, was large and enthusiastic enough to show that business is intended, and there is no doubt enough impetus will be given to the meet to make it a success. The prizes, we hear, will be valuable. The last meeting of the Vale of Clwyd Chamber of Agriculture was an important one, as it had before it the Agricultural Holdings Act, which was fairly discussed. It appears the lanil agents in the locality have taken up a position against it according to what was said at the meeting, and if that is the fact it is greatly to be deplored. The Executive Committee have taken a eourse which will be universally approved by the agriculturists in Denbighshire, in asking the Privy Council to place the county in tho schedule of places enjoying immunity from the order forbidiug the public or private sale or fairs for the disposal of stock cattle. The county is free from disease, and although it exists in Cheshire atil Shropshire, with proper precautions, which the Executive have pro- mised to seo carried out, there is no reason why it should be reintroduced again. Wo shall wait with interest for the decision of the Privy Council in the matter. In the death of M ijor Wilkinson, Plas Llan- fair, the district has lost one of its most gene- rous and unostentatious benefactors. It is recorded of him that ho always kept a list of deserving people needing relief, and thoy visited hiraregnlarly every week for help, which never failed. During the severe winter, which visited the district some two years ago, his solicitude for tho birils was as great as that towards his fellow species, and he expended more than five pounds in bread to be given to tlie feathered tribo. His interment took place on Tuesdav week, at Llaufair Church, and the mourners in the respective carriages were Mrs Wilkinson and six children, the Bishop of Truro, who officiated in the funeral ceremony, Mr and Mrs Weddingtin, Sir Henry Dsseoient, and Mr Prime. Tho two last earriagescon- tained the servants, and in addition fiere were a large number of family carriages sent dllt of respect. The uaferiakor was Mr J, JOfitJS, St. Peters Square. Without much stretch of modesty we may flatter ourselves that the St. Asaph bench has seen our remarks on the subject of poaching, and that they touched a sympathetic chord. It is well known that poachers are the dregs of the population, and it is an sbsurd sentiment which says the game is as much theirs as anyone else's. If these people who feel so much affec- tion and solicitudo for the poacher really believo game is common property, they ought, at least, to be made aware that the poacher is the last man with any right to it. He is too lazy to work, not ingenious enough to live on his wits, and so fond of the chase that he takes the game wholesale in nets, always giving them the very smallest chance possible of getting awav. Ho is not a cynic brooding over political wrongs, but a man who rejoices iu the lightness of the punishment awarded to poachers, and the extraordinary profit he is permitted to make by his avocation. In character he is always either a brute or a coward, generally the former, for the wholesale and merciless slaughter he carries ou in the preserves, and if lie cm go out six night and return safely home laden with spoil he is quite content to he caught on the seventh, and pay his forty shillings and costs. Last Monday, however, a poacher was fined £ 5 and costs at St. Asaph, and as this was too much to pay, in default of a month, he magnanimously wont up for that period, and, of course, simply as a matter of £ s d, because by so doing he will be provisioned for a month and save X5 and costs, and this is no doubt, a common sense way of reviewing his position. As an evidence of his past successes lie showed the magistrates E14. It is obvious that imprisonment is the only remedy for poaching, as it stands very much on tho same footing as the bad meat trade—the risks are few and the profits sufficient to cover them with ease.

LLANDUDNO & NEIGHBOURHOOD OCCASIONAL NOTES. Alderman Edward Jones is quite a pillar amongst the Wesleyans at Comvay. He has just subscribed forty guineas towards structural im- provements at the English Wssleyan Chapel in that town. The popularity of Conway Marsh as a camping ground for Rifle Volunteers is on the increase and this summer will be more than ever gay with our citizen soldiers." At the meeting of the Conwsy Town Council on Wednesday, arrangements were come to with five regiments to occupy the Marsh at Whitsuntide, and during the months of June, July, and August. Miss Maggie ItfortoWs Comedy-Anglaiso Com- pfiny" were never more popular at Llandudno than during their engagement which terminated on Wednesday evening. The announcement made by Miss Morton that she had arranged to pay another visit at the end of February was loudly applauded. The charming little actress, with her pretty pet dogs, has evidently fascinated many folks in Llan- dudno. The case cf Fisher r. The Market Hall Company comes on again at the Llanducino County Court next Thursday. One of the jurymen—Mr Burditt -I,as died since the last court. It is whispered that the defendants will press for the case to com- mence tie novo. After numerous dehtys from various and possibly unavoidable causes, the new pavilion on the Llan. dudno Pier is at last within a measurable distance of completion. This week a spacious public read- ing room was ooened. The apartment is comfort- ably warmed, and commands a splendid view of the bay. Next season the pavilion will be a "big thing" to the visitors as an additional attraction. Now and then there's some amusement as well as vivacity at the Llanrwst petty sessions. Last Monday the case against Captain Hamer was noteworthy in two or three ways. The captain is said to have been brought up to the English bar," and has also held commissions in the army, Ac. But, according to the statement of Superintendent Hammond, these achievements do not prevent the captain from enjoying fresh herrings and beer with all the servants of a small public-house at 11.10 p.m. on New Year's Eve. He was summoned for being on licensed piemisea after hours. But the case was dismissed. Presentations at Boards of Guardians are not very frequent-except presentations of out-relief or "offers of the house." There was a notable ex- ception at the Llanrwst Board on Tuesday, when the vice-chairman was presented with a large silver inkstand by his fellow-guardians and the officers, as a wedding present. Mr O. hgoed Jones is a most attentive member, and richly deserved some expression of appreciation. It was not a bad suggestion of the Chairman at the Conway Petty Sessions on Monday (the Rev. Venables Williams) that when persons calling themselves travellers vieit licensed houses ou a Sunday, the landlord or landlady, as the case may be, should keep a book in which the visitors write their names and addresses. Three young men were tined for obtaining drink on a Sunday by falsely representing themselves to be travellers. They denied having represented that they were travellers, and said they got beer" the same as on any other night." By adopting the suggestion referred to above, the landlord could effectually clear himself from any imputation in the matter. The recent decision of the Vitle of Conway Agri- cultural Society to hold its next annual show at Llandudno is not at all popular with the people of Llanrwst, at which town the show has hitherto ;n. variably been held. We think the society has acted wisely in its decision. Why should the event be held at Llanrwst every year? It is said that it always rains at Liaiirwst;" avid certainly of late years an uncommonly wet day has accompanied the annual show, so thit the exhibition of umbrellas has been more extensive than desirable. Tho Den. bighshire and Flintshire Society goes to five dif- ferent towns in turn, and Rhyl's turn is always productive of a financial baul-C403 gate-iiiotiey last year. We hope it will be the same at Llan. dudno this year, as the exchequer of the Vale of Conway Society may be replenished.

LOCAL & DISTRICT NEWS. BANOOK CATHEDRAL.—Saturday, January 12111, 5 p.m.: Service, Stanford in B flat; anthem, The Lord is my light" (Hiles). First Sunday after Epiphany, 8 a.m. Litany and Holy Communion. 11.30 a.m.: Hymn 77; service, Dykes in F; anthem, "Whon Jesus our Lord (Mendelssohn) preacher, the Right Rev. the Lord Bishop. 4 p.m. Hvmn 261; service, Calkin in B flat; anthem, "Sweet is Thy mercy, Lord" (Barnbv); preacher, The Canon in Residence (Archdeacon Evans). AORRCTRR.TCRAL HOWI'10S (ENOLAND) ACT, 1883.- Mr William Roberts. Llwydfaen. near Conway, has been appointed by Mr Horatio Lloyd, County Court Judge, to act as bailiff for the purpose of levying distress under the 52nd Sect, of the above Act, which provide-- as follows:—No person shall act as a "bailiff to levy any distress on any holdingto which this Act applies, unless he shall be authorised to act as a bailiff by a certificate in writing under the hand of the Judge of a County Court." CAMBRIAN RAILWAYS.— Approximate return of traffic receipts for the week ending 6th January, 1844. Miles open, 1801, Paen,,e, parcels, &0,. £ 1224; merchandise, minentls, and live stok, £ 1214; tot?l for the week, 92438. Actual traffic receipts fcr the corresponding week last year:- opet,, 180'1. &-i., R1236; merchandise, minerals, and livestock, C1340 total for the W2k, £2576. Aggregate from commence- ment of half-year to this date, £2021 aggregate last year, 1:1978. Decrease Passengers, parcels. Ac., 1£12; merchan<1i,e. minerals, &c., R126 total decrease for the week, £138; decrease from com- mencement of half-year to this date,£143, BANOOK URR\ SCIIOOT. BOARD.—At a meeting of the members of the School Board for the Borough of Bangor, held on Thursday, there weiepresent: Messrs Meshach Roberts, T. C. Lewis, Griffith Roberta, 1 >nn iM Cameron, Rev..T. Morgan, D. G. Davies and Robert Owen. It was proposed by Mr D. G. DAVIES, and seconded by Mr CHmno, that Mr Meshach Roberts be the Chairman.—This was carried item, con.— The Rev. ,T. MORGAN proposed, and Mr OWKN seconded, that Mr D, G. Davies should be the Vice-chairman.—An amendment was pro- posed by Mr T. C, LEWIS, and seconded by Mr G. ROBERTS, that Mr Cameron be the Vice-chairmar, The amendment was carried, four voting for it The proposition wat not put up.—The Rev..T. MORGAN proposed, and Mr GRIFITII RORF.RT8Rennded, 'RIFITIT R?BrRTLi seoon d e(l, that the Borough Board amalgamate with the Rural School Board.—Thin was carried nnani. mouslv.—Mr THOMAS, secretary at the Rural Board, and Mr PRIC, the chairman, attended and explained the positions of the two Boards under the Corporation. Mr Thomas was appointed clerk until the amalgamation of the two Boards. Mr T. J. Williams, of Garth (from the office of Hughes and Pritchard, solicitors), attended to talu the ruinates until tho appointment of a clerk. LAST Wednesday week, the Right rIon, IArly Pcnrhyn and Miss Pennant, visited t',ie 1 eopie » Cafe, Bethosda, and were conducted turou^lioiu the whole building by Mr Davies, the manager, Sub sequently they drank Lt ciii) of tea each, and announ- ced their delight in witnessing such a commodious institution with every facility to render it attractive and comfortable. LAND TAX COMMISSIONERS.—The London Gazette contains a notice issued by the Commissioners of Inland Revenue convening a meeting of the Land Tax Commissioners for the county of Jenbigh, to be held at the Justices' Room. at Llanrwst, on the 24th ult., at 12.30 p.m., for the purpose of choosing fit and proper persons to be commissioners to supply vacancies amongst the commissioners for the general purposes of the income tax for the division of Uwchdulas. TilE NORTlI WALES COLLIERS.—On Monday even- ing a meeting of delegates representing several of the North Wales collieries was held at Wrexham, to discuss the wages question. After a long discus sion, it was resolved,as some of the largest coliieries in North Wales were unrepresented, to postpone the further consideration of thequestion for a few weeks und to appoint a deputation to visit the men engaged at those collieries not represented at the meeting, with the view of ascertaining their views on the matter, and to enable arrangements to be made, if possible for obtaining an interview with the employers to discuss with them the question of au early advance in wages. CARNARVON SCHOOL BOARD.—At Monday's monthly meeting there were present Messrs W. P. Williams (chairman), J. Menzies, R. Newton, J. Edmunds, and the Rev. J. Hughes. The average attendance at the boys' school was returned at 216, a decrease of two on the previous month. The question of re- arrangement of the teaching staff and salary was deferred until after the examination. Mr Menzies reminded the attendance officer that complaints had been addressed to the chief constable about ragged children begging about the towii.-The CHAIRMAN said that Mr Menzies, as a county magistrate, ought to direct the attention of the chief constable to the lads past school age who were doing mischief about town. There were plenty of police. men in Carnarvon, but what on earth they were doing noonecoutd say-The Attendance Officer said that there were about sixty street arabs who were not upon the school registers. There was no reason to complain of the general attendance at the schools—Mr EDMUNDS suggested that the chief constable should be asked to hive the board every assistance in getting t!.e street arabs into the schools after the coming examination.—Mr Menzie: And no doubt he will be only too glad to do it —On the motion of Mr Menzies, the atten- dance officer was instructed to prepare a report giving the number of ragged and destitute children who did not attend the school, and the occupation of their parents. CHURCH GUOIR AND SUNDAT SCHOOL TREAT AT CAPEl, GAHMos.-On Friday, January 5th, the annual tea- party to the Sunday School children and dinner to the members of the church choir, was given by the vicar of the parish, the Rev. D. Morgan. About fifty children sat down to tea at four o'clock and enjoyed themselves most. heartily. After clearing the tables several scugs and glees were rendered, and the children amused themselves in playing innocent games up to seven o'clock. At seven the members of the choir and several others who had been invited were seated at the tables, which were most profusely covered with every variety of good things. Grace having been said by the vicar. the company did ample justice to the provisions laid before them. About eighty persons altogether pariook of this repast. After dinner the company adjourned to the drawing room, and entertained each other with songs, glees, recitations, and a variety of games. The house was literally crowded and all seemed to enjoy themselves to their hearts content. Before departing, the vicar addressed the company at great length, and exhorted them to do all the good they could for their fellow creatures while on earth, and expressed a hope that they should have the opportunity of meeting each other again in the same place next year, and not even that, but that the company of next year be largely augmented. It was proposed and carried to open a subscription list in connection with the Sunday School, for the purpose of acquir- ing funds towards defraying the expenses of giving the Sunday School children a trip to the sea-side next summer. Rev. D. Morgan was appointed treasurer, and Mr J. Thomas, Board School, secretary. TREAT AT COLOMENDY HALL, MOLD.— Thursday, the 3rd instant was a busy and merry day at Colomendy. At five o'clock the children attending Mrs Cooke's Sunday School, and the junior mem- bers of Gwernaffield Church Choir sat down to tea in the spacious kitchen, and afterwards repaired to the servant's hall to amuse themselves. At 6.30 the tenants, employees, and the senior members of Gwernaffield Church Choir assembled, and were together with the children closely arranged in the large dining room to witness the performance of a grand Christmas play 11 Beauty and the Beast by a distinguished company from Colomendy and Glan'mfon:- Dramatis Personal. Beast, (Azor Prince of Silverland), Mr H. Cross; Limri Merchant, Miss Cross; Beauty, Miss G. Cooke Anna, Miss M. A. Cross; solo, Miss R. Cross; Silverstar, Miss Cooke; Attendant Fairies, the Misses Trubshaw; music performed by Miss Philips. The acting was remarkably good, and the sweetly varied music by Miss Philips proved a great attraction. At the close of the play a richly decorated Christmas tree was stripped for the benefit of Mrs Cooke's Sunday Scholars, and all the children were then sent home. The adults number- ing between 50 and 60 retired to the kitchen where a substantial repast awaited them. Having done justice to this they returned to the dining room for dancing. At intervals several glees were very creditably sung by the Gwernaflield Choir. At 10 30 a plentiful supply of excellent punch was handed olind, and the company having drunk the health of Colonel and :\f rs Cooke, and the Misses Cooke, alllwith musical honours, the singing of the National Antliem terminated a most enjoyable evening. NORTH WEST OF CANADA AND THE CANADIAN PACIFIC RAILWAY.—Lecture at Uethesda.—On Monday even- ing, Mr J, E. Crackuell delivered an interesting lecture in the Cafe Assembly Room on this subject. Rev. W. Thomas, Vicar of St. Aniis, occupied the chair, and in introducing the lecturer remarked upon the deep interest he felt in any movement for giving information to the people concerning Mani- toba, and the North West of Canada, at the present time many desired the truth concerni g the countv laid before them Mid were prepared to listen to theJ"cntlenan who came with this object.—Mr CRACKN-EJ.L, after some general remarks on the vast extent of territory in the Dominion, gave a descrip- tion of Montreal, and a journey thence to Winnipeg, showing that by the arrangements the Canadian Pacilic Railway were now making there would be a much shorter and cheaper route open next spring. New steamers had been built by the company for crossing the lakes, until the line should be completed the whole distance. Winnipeg was described its a wonderfvd city, its rapid growth astonishes all who had the opportunity of observing it-its present condition with a population of over 25,003 people, in contrast with the time when known a3 Fort Garry, twelve years since, and in- habited by some 300 souls was vividly described. The lecturer proceeded to take the audience in thought along the line of railway visiting various f>tr11ls (In<1:givingt.he personal testimony of settlers,iu addition t ) those given in the lecture at Llandudno reported last week. Amongst others Mr D, Matheson, who settled near Brandon some two years since. The lecturer gave a glowing descrip- tion of the scenery round'Brandon. Mr Matheson reports: Has 203 acres ready; 125 in crop Speak- ing of alkali, says it is not destructive of crops, as some suppose. By ploughing deep, using manure, has secured good crop of wheat off land which it was thought the alkali would render useless. Mr W. Robinson came out from Barrow-in-Furness in April, 1832 has 170 acres crop 83 more ready for next year. Much pleased with his crop of oats, which was then being thrashed, and of which he gave a sample. Seamed very happy in his work. Mr T. Grover, Regina, came from Toronto, has only been settled in country twelve months last June. Has broken 40 acres with single yoke of oxen, and 60 with horses. He thinks mixed farming—the raising grain and keeping stoclc-very desirable. With reference to crop, he did not commence breaking till August, 1882, sown in May, 1883, with- out being ploughed again, simply used a spring- toothed harrow; 30 acres in crop, taking off crop on September 28th. Recommends those to come out who are able and willing to work. Leuton Purdv, Rock Creek, Regina, from Ontario, came out at s'tme time its Mr Grover; he farms in same district. Has five horses, one yoke of oxen, two cows, sixteen sheep, 30 acres of oats. Is in favour of all suitable persons coming as settlor". Specimens of produce were carefully arranged on the platform, both grain, root crops, and mineral, which attracted consider- able attention, and were inspected at the close. The progress of the Canadian Paciflo Railway was shown on a Inrute map. The track is laid 80me 960 miles from Winnipeg, reaching the Rocky Moun- tains. It has also branches from Winnipeg to Stonewall, Velkirk, Manitoba City, and St. Vincent. At the close of the lecture a cordial vote of thanks was proposed bv the Vicar and carried with accla- mation. Pamphlets both in Welsh and English were freely distributed at the doora on leaving. WE are requested to contradict the rumour that Mr L. p, Pugii, M.P., has accepted an Indian jlJde3hip, There iR absolutely no truth in th» statement. MESSRS WILLIAMS AND CO., cf the Old Bank, Bangor, have, we understand, established a branch office at Lianfairfechan. Tho o/Iico is open from eleven till two o'clock every Tuesday. WE are requested to state that the report recently circulated through tho Press, that Mr Llewelyn Mostyn, of Brynbella, intends to come forward as a candidate in the Conservative interest (for Flintshire) at the noxt election is entirely without foundation. Mr Mostyn has ng, intention of contesting either the county or the borough scat, CHRISTMAS AT NEW QUAY.—Christmas was el- comed in the usual unostentatious manner. The evergreens which adorned tho windows of the houses showed that a right joyous welcome was accorded bv the inmates to Old Father Christ- mas," and "doubtless there were further evidezicel, inside, in the shape of festivities, and tho Llan- llwchhaiarn parish church had been decorated with great taste. The services were well attended. On New Year's Day an interesting meeting was held in connoction with the Methodist Sunday school. The programme was varied with a good selection of songs, recitations, &c. ENTERTAINMENT Ak THE INFIRMARY.—Last week an entertainment of an amusing character was given to the patients of the Carnarvonshire and Anglesey Infirmary and their friends, by a company of young men of this town, viz.:—Messrs 0, A, Elias (violin), R. A. Foulkes (triangle), T. Griffith (picolo), H, Hughes and W. C. Roberts (1st and 2nd flutes), C. Humphreys (bells), W. Jones (bones), William Jones, barber (banjo), W. Williams (tam- bourine), who about two months ago form-id them- selves into an Amateur Christy Minstrel Troupe. The entertainment consisted of comic and senti- mental songs and choruses, stum;) speeches Ac. Clog dancing was introduced by Mr O. A. Klias, and much eucored; and Mr W. Jones appeared in a comic drama, which met with much favour. The whole concluded with a laughable farce, entitled, The tragedian and his fourpenny bit," by Messrs W. Jones, O. A. Elias, and the company. WREXHAM PETTY SESSIONS.—On Monday, Thomas Matthews, labourer, Rosset, was fined 40s. and costs for poaching on the estate of Mr Topliam, oi Darlan Hall.—Peter Edwards,collier, charge I with cutting holly from trees in Gwersyllt Park.belonging to Colonel Wheatley, was ordered to pay 10.Da.vid Griffiths, butcher, Ponkey, was lined 20s for cruelty to a number of sheep.—Thomas Manuel, aged 14, son of a labourer at the Ffrwd, was fined lis 61 for brutally kicking a donkey belonging to a butcher, at Caergwrle.—Robert Morris, a miner, was charged with assaulting Mrs Margaret Davies, landlady of the White Hart Inn, New Brighton, Mineva, on Christmas Eve, because she refused to serve him with drink when he hid already had more than sufficient. Mr Owen G. Jo les, f)1' tho defence, stated that the complainant wished to kiss his client under the mistletoe, the price of the kiss being the cost of a quart of beer, for the good of the company, in accordance with a custom of the country," and because his client d0c!illEd to be kissed by a married woman, and pushed her away from him, she brought the present charge against him. The Bench, however, believed the com- plainant's tale, and ordered the miner to pay £1 Os 6d, NEW YEAR'S DAY AT LT.AVGIA: The children attending the Voelgron Schools, mustering about 250, were invited on the 1st inst, by the generous Nanlioron family, to a soiree, the chief attraction of which was a Christmas tree, exhibited at the schoolroom. To give anything like an adequate description of the exhibition is out of the question, loaded as it was with all manner of useful and ornamental articles, toys, sweets, &0, The singing of the children, in going rouiK. and round this bur- dened tree, was delightful, while the ladies busied themselves in the distribution of its store among them. There were present: Mr F. W. Lloyd Edwards, Nanhoron; Mrs Lloyd Edwards and party; Miss Lloyd Edwards, the Misses French, Mrs Gore Booth, the Revs, James Rowland, D. R. Morgan, T. Davies, and a good many respectable farmers and others who had been invited. The entertainment was really a great success, and all were satisfied. The school children, big and small, were loaded with presents. The entertainment terminated with a geneial distribution of buns and oranges. The Rev. J. Rowland having proposed a vote of thanks to the esteemed family of Nanhoron, it was carried amid most enthusiastic cheering and amidst musical honours.—Correspondent. THE SELF-ACCUSED INCENDIARY AT C.\1I'1.\R\'OS.- On Monday, at the Borough Magistrates' Court, Carnarvon, before Dr. John Williams (Mayor) and other magistrates, John Owen, a former master of the Carnarvon Workhouse, and recently the holder of a small farm at Dwyran, a part of Anglesey immediately opposite Carnarvon, was brought up on remand upon charges of arson and larceny. The prisoner, against whom there was a warrant out for stealing a bottle containing three half pints of whisky from the Four Alls Inn, Carnarvon, gave himself up to the local police, and, in a statement to Sergeant James, said that on the morning of Sunday, December 23rd, he set fire to a valuable haystack at Cae Bold Farm, the property of Mr John Pugli, Sportsman Hotel, Carnarvon. On Monday, when the case was called, the prisoner asked for a further remand in order that he might consult a solicitor. Replying to the bench. Deputy Chief Constable Davies said that, in addition to the admission of the prisoner, the police were in poss- ession of further evidence.—Tlie Mayor We are willing to grant your request, John Owen but, yoti know,ar3 there two changes against you.—Prisoner: Yes, I don't know whether you will admit me to bail, in order that I can have a better oppor- tunity of preparing my defence. There are two gentlemen present who will beciiii2 sureties for me.—The Mayor: The charges are very serious, and I don't thing the bench would be justified ill admitting you to bail.—The prisoner was then removed in custody. LLANEI.IDAN, NElR RUTBIN. On Wednesday, January 2nd, Mrs Naylor Leyland. Nantclwyd Hall, gave her annual treat to the children attend- ing the Church schools. The children assembled at the National Schools at three p.m., and accom- panied by their master, Mr E. P. Jones, marched down from thence to the Hall, where an excellent tea awaited them. After the tea, Colonel Naylor Leyland gave a very amusing and instructive magic lantern entertainment in the large hall, with which all were delighted. The children were then allowed to choose some of the very pretty and useful presents which were arranged on tables in the largo hall. Three hearty cheers having been given for Colonel Mrs aod Miss Naylor Levland. they dispersed to their homos highly pleased with their treat. Mrs Naylor Leyland, with her usual liberality ancl, thoughtfulness, has distributed a quantity of coal, warm clothing, and tea and sugar, to over seventy of the poor people, to whom they were exceedingly acceptable. They were also all entertained at the Hall with a substantial tea.-In the 42nd annual report of the parish clothing club, we notice that the members, which number fiftv-five, this year received each a bonus of about 3s. The bonus, which is regulated according to attendance, received this'year by the members of the Church Sunday School Shoe and Clothing Clubs, varied from Is 6d to 4s 6d. Each of these clubs receive substantial aid from Mrs Naylor Leyland. WELSH CONOREOATIONAL UNION OF FLINTSHIRE AND DENBIGHSHIRE.—On Monday the quarterly meetings of the above association wfte commenced at St. Asaph, and were continued through? it Tuesday The conference was presided over by the Rev. David Oliver, of Holywell, chairman for the year the Rev, D. Johns, of Ruthin, being secretary. Pastors and delegates were in attendance from Mold, Rhyl, Ilolvwell, St. Asaph, Denbigh, Pentre- volas, Ruthin, LKndegla, Waun, Llanrwst, Rhudd- Ian, Flint, tc.-The Rev T. Nicholson, of Denbigh, halving conducted the devotional exercises, the minutes of the last meeting were read and con- firt-ne(I.-It was agreed to hold the next conference at Nant-y-rhiw, Llanwrst, for the He. Owen Thomas, Holvwell, to be the preacher, and for the Rev. T. Nicholson to read a peper on "Family Devotions."—A resolution was unanimouslv passed expressing the deep senoe of the conference of the loss sustained by the death of the veneraMo Dr. William Rees, and expressive of deep svmpathy with. the bereaved family.—A resolution was passed regretting the evils caused by intemperance, and urging the Government to give the people the power to deal with the same by means of local option."— It was alio agreed—"That in the opinion of tins conference the University College of Wales at Aberystwith shouJci be retained, in the interest of higher education, in Mid-Wales, and as a national1 institution founded and cherished by the Welsh people generally and that the Government grant now awarded to it should be continued in order to ensure its thosough and permanent efficiency." It was further agreed to send a copy of the fore;.Zjljig resolution to the Right Hon. W. E. Glarlstone Sr p the Right Hon. Lord Calingford, and the llii.Vt' Hon, A. J. Mlmilella.. M.p,; to'ether with the M.P. s for Flintshire and Denbighshire ;also to Mr Stuart Rendel, M.P., who has promised to lead the effort for the retention of Aberystwith Co!le«e.— The Rev. S. Evans read an admirable and sun-restive paper on The introductory portions of our pul)li service, which elicited an interesting discus,ion,- Public services were held each evening, Tre Engish C ongregational Union for Flintshire holds its meetings on the 28th inst. at Rhyl.