Extracts from

The Wenlock Advertiser

1881

relating to Broseley and District

2007

1^st  January 1881

BROSELEY.

A DIFFICULT CASE.- It will be remembered that at a previous court two little boys were charged with stealing coal from Mr R Jones’s pit bank at the Willey Collieries. The option was then given to the parents of paying the costs, that the boys might not be convicted. This, in the case of William Tench, the parents refused to do so, and the boy was now brought up on warrant. The Mayor strongly condemned the inhuman conduct of the parents whom he believed to be more blamed than the boy, and ordered him to receive six stripes with a birch rod, and to be imprisoned at the Wenlock Police Station for two days.

Correspondence

GRADIENT ON THE PROPOSED
BROSELEY RAILWAY

TO THE EDITOR OF THE WENLOCK AND LUDLOW EXPRESS.

Sirs, - I do not know why Mr Wilson should invent a fictitious quotation from my letter of the 7^th Inst which perverts a consistent statement onto nonsense, and then hold it up to ridicule, hiding from view the real point at issue. I did not state that a continuous gradient of one in forty from the level of the proposed bridge to the side of the station, as marked on the plan, would give a rise of only 254 feet.

My words were these; “It is obvious that a continuous gradient of one in forty must be wholly accurate and insufficient, for that would imply a difference of level of only 254 feet between the average height of the surface of the Severn at the proposed railway bridge, and the proposed site of the Broseley station.

Perhaps, Mr. Wilson will like to explain why, in proposing to give a quotation from my letter, he has entirely altered my figures, and my meaning, by omitting from the middle of a sentence the above words printed in italics. Anyone who will carefully read my letters will see that all my data agree very closely with the relative figures given by Mr Wilson, my height of 165 feet corresponding with Mr Wilson’s figures of 168.92 feet. The slight discrepancy, which is not material, arose from my having estimated from the small scale plan the gradient of one in forty as applying to a distance of “as nearly as possible 6,600 feet,” instead of actually to 6,758 feet. With this trifling exception, our data agree.

I do not dispute the fact that Mr Wilson’s gradients correspond with his assumed altitudes, for the latter have evidently been derived from the former, but I submit that his altitudes are not applicable to the ground he traverses.

It would be as possible to project the line on a dead level as to make it subordinate to an exact gradient, if the actual contour of the ground is to be ignored. The error would only differ in degree, and not in kind, from that into which Mr Wilson has fallen.

Let us take the average height of the Severn at the railway bridge as our stating point.

The level of the rails on the bridge is stated on Mr Wilson’s plan to be 89 feet above this point, to which has to be added a rise of 168.92 feet, giving, according to Mr Wilson’s figures, a total of 257.92 feet (corresponding with my estimate of 254 feet) for the height of the station above the Severn. I may state for Mr Wilson’s information that I have been accustomed to the use of the aneroid in various quarters of  the world, and he will find the results of many of my surveys given at length in the “Quarterly Journal of the Geological Society of London,” and in other “unscientific” publications.

We will, however, set aside all doubtful aneroid measurements, and compare Mr Wilson’s figures with the result of another actual survey, the accuracy of which anyone can test.

Church Street, Broseley, adjacent to The Orchard in which it is proposed to place the station, is about the lowest part of the town.

The road by the lamp-post near the Pritchard Memorial is, as nearly as possible 374 feet above the average height of the Severn (the actual levelling at a time of exceptionally high water, gave 369.37 as the exact difference of level), and Church Street, adjacent to Dr. Thursfield’s orchard, in which it is proposed to place the Station, is a little lower, perhaps about 360 feet above the Severn, the deep narrow depression at the bottom of the orchard being about 304 feet above the Severn. If Mr Wilson’s data are correct, the Station would be about 100 feet in vertical height below Church Street, a position in relation to the site so utterly absurd that I am surprised it should have been contemplated by an experienced engineer. It is a mere coincidence that for nearly the entire length of the line gradient happens to fall out exactly as one in 40 ? or has Mr Wilson subordinated both his gradients and natural features of the ground to a foregone conclusion of “One in Forty,” which “brings him up short,” deep underground, about 100 feet below the lowest point in Broseley. It is said that the Parliamentary plans of a neighbouring line exhibited the gradients on an earlier inclination than those on which it could be carried out.

You can “prospect” a line to any point below Broseley, but Mr Wilson’s gradient would not cover two thirds of the ascent from the level of the bridge to the level of the lowest street in the town, which would necessitate a continuous gradient of one in 25¾.

As the proposed Broseley Railway plans were accordingly lodged in  the Private Bill Office the day before the Committee, at whose expense that were prepared, were allowed to see them, it seems really a doubt of question whether the solicitors and engineers were employed by the Committee or the Committee employed by the professional gentlemen. Not withstanding Mr Wilson’s threat of legal proceedings I must hold that the question of gradients is a proper subject for the fullest public discussion and hope that when Mr Wilson submits his case to a jury, he will be careful to avoid a repetition of the scandalous offence of misquoting my words to the perversion of my meaning. Trusting that this letter will afford some further “amusement” to Mr Wilson.- I remain, Sir, yours faithfully,  

GEORGE MAW

Benthall Hall, near Broseley,

Dec. 27^th, 1880

BROSELEY

FIRE.- Early on Christmas morning, a fire broke out in the house of Mr Ryails, in New Road, in consequence of which serious damage was done. Happily, the fire was discovered in time to save the premises. The origin of the fire was an infection in the chimney.

INQUEST.- On Monday evening an inquest was held at the Talbot(Dog) Inn, (Mr Meredith’s) touching the death of James Chadwick, an old man who died on Sunday. From the evidence it appeared that Chadwick had some beef for his dinner and during the meal was taken with symptoms of choking went immediately into the brewhouse, where he fell down and died immediately. Dr Tailer was sent for and found the deceased had been suffocated by a piece of beef two and a half inches long. The jury returned a verdict that deceased had been accidentally suffocated. The inquiry was conducted by E Glover Bartlam, Esq, Borough Coroner.

PARISH CHURCH.- On Christmas Day the parish church was seasonally and appropriately decorated according to custom, and the services were of a special character. The Rector conducted the services, and there were large congregations; Mr. T. Watkis presided at the organ.

15^th January 1881

BROSELEY.

BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS —Tuesday. Before J  A Anstice, F Roden, G Maw and R E Anstice, Esqrs.

A BRUTAL ASSAULT.—A middle-aged man named William Binnall employed by Mr Meire, of the Inett Farm, charged four persons named George Ward (17), Joseph Ward (13), Henry Small (23), George Small (25), and Frederick Mapp (25) with assaulting him at Broseley, on Christmas Day. It appeared from Binnall’s statement that on the day in question a goose was stolen from his master’s. Witness went with the policeman to several places. As he was returning through Jackfield he met the defendants, who most brutally assaulted him, one of them throwing a stick which went through his cheek into his mouth (sensation). The prisoners when they saw him called out ”Here comes old Binnall, a bag of muck.” They then interfered with him, pushed him, and began to stone him. He took up a stone and threatened to throw it at them, but did not do so. Subsequently one of them said ”Let him alone now, he has had enough; he won’t come to Jackfield after a goose again.” The wound on his face (which was plastered up) was the result of their violence and there was still a hole through it. He had since been attended by Dr Thursfield. P.C. Beckett gave evidence as to the apprehension of prisoners one warrant, with P.C. Smith and P.C. Brew.—The two Smalls admitted being there, but said complaint was assaulted by a lot of boys, and that he did not know who they were.—After retiring to consult the Chairman said the Bench thought that in the case of Joseph Ward there was a doubt and the case against him would be dismissed, George Ward, Henry Small, and George Small would be sentenced to 21 day’s hard labour Frederick Mapp, they considered, was not as bad as the others and he would be only sentenced to 14 days’ hard labour; in addition to which the men convicted would have to pay 7s 6d costs each, or be further imprisoned for 7 days.

Correspondence

MR MAW ON THE GRADIENTS OF THE PROPOSED RAILWAY TO BROSELEY.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE WENLOCK AND LUDLOW EXPRESS.

Sir,—it seems to me Mr Maw wishes to air his pseudo scientific knowledge or has some ulterior reason in making these fictitious allegations against my levels and section, which I maintain are perfectly correct, and by his own statement in his letter of January 1st, I think I shall be able to prove. He there says— “We will, however, set aside all doubtful aneroid measurements, and compare Mr Wilson’s figures with the result of another actual survey, the accuracy of which anyone can test, &c. The road by the lamp-post near the Pritchard Memorial is as nearly as possible 374 above the average height of the Severn (the actual levelling at the time of exceptionally high water gave 369-37 as the exact difference of level),” Now my assistant in taking a trial section, which agrees entirely with the actual section, ran his up to a field at the top of Foundry Lane, and found the difference of level between there and the surface of the Severn, which he was told was as high as it was ever known to rise, was 361.51 ft., and, if I remember right, the level of the ground in the Bridgnorth Road at Foundry lane, is lower than at the Pritchard Memorial, quite 8ft., I should say, which would correspond with Mr Maw’s figures and prove the accuracy of my levels.

It is impossible to argue the matter with Mr Maw having the results of his knowledge in the aneroid in all parts of the world, and of which, if this is a specimen, must be of unprecedented value to the Geological Society; but unless he has some actual section taken over the centre-line of the proposed railway by a competent man, it is useless talking of Church Street, adjacent Dr Thursfield’s orchard, bring about 360ft above the Severn, giving a range of perhaps 15ft, it being 345ft, or any other of his hypothetical heights.

I am obliged to Mr Maw for his explanation of his estimate of 254ft, for how he arrived at it I was at a loss to understand.

Mr Maw’s published allegations in respect of the levels and gradients are so preposterous that to any professional man they carry their absurdity on the face of them. Except that they are put forth to mislead people not so acquainted with the subject, as Mr Maw’s scientific knowledge leads him to suppose that he is they would be quite unworthy of notice. In making them without having previously caused the levels to be tested by a competent person, Mr Maw’s conduct is certainly reprehensible. I must now leave the matter to the judgment of your readers to decide as to the propriety of Mr Maw’s most untrue and fictitious statements in regard to my levels and gradients which I must say are perfectly groundless and beg most emphatically to contradict.

I am, sir your very truly,

EDWARD WILSON, M.I.C.E.

9,Victoria Chambers, Westminster

13th January 1881

22^nd January 1881

BROSELEY

LOCAL BOARD MEETING

The fortnightly meeting of this Board was held on Wednesday last at the Town Hall. There were present- Dr. T. G. Thursfield (chairman), Messrs. H. P. Dunnill, R. Rushton, Peter Jones, J. C. W. Lister, Mr. Owen Harries, clerk; Mr G. Ledger, surveyor; Mr G. Stevenson, inspector of nuisances.

The minutes of the last meeting were read end confirmed.

THE PROPOSED CEMETERY.

The Clerk having written to Mr. Joseph Exley in respect of the proposed cemetery near the Red Church, his house being within the statute distance of the proposed cemetery, a reply was read from Mr. Exley decidedly objecting to the scheme altogether, as the existing graveyard was too near.

This settling the question of the cemetery on the site proposed,

Mr. Dunnill said he supposed they would have to go to the next field.

Mr. Lister suggested that the best site would be on the New Road, where there would be a good road from Broseley and Jackfield.

The Chairman said Mr. Potts objected to this.

Mr. Lister thought if they were to be stopped by objections they would never get the cemetery.

Mr. Rushton thought if they could not get the road, the best plan would be to have the piece near the church.

The Chairman said as they could not get the road it would be better.

In answer to the Chairman, Mr. Rushton said the ground was tested, and the sub-soil was found to be gravel.

In the coarse of a conversation the Chairman said, in answer to Mr. Dunnill, that they need not abandon the question of a road to Jackfield, but they could not borrow money for the road except it were connected with the cemetery, and the cost of the road would make a very heavy rate.

At the suggestion of the Chairman, he was desired to see Mr. Potts as to whether General Jenkins would consent to let them have the land near the church.

THE WATER SUPPLY.

The Clerk read a communication from Messrs. Potts in which they stated they had received the plans, &c., from Mr. Massey, and that the approval and sanction for the ground would be forwarded in a day or two.

A letter was also read from Mr. Massey, the engineer, who stated that he had, he believed, finished all the drawings, but that it was desirable that be should compare them on the ground. But the weather had hitherto been too foggy to enable him to take a sight, and too cold to allow him to record it. He was looking out for a favourable day, and hoped the Board would not be inconvenienced by this unavoidable delay.

The matter dropped without discussion.

MISCELLANEOUS.

Mrs. Legge attended, and asked to be excused the rate on some property belonging to her, pleading that her tenants were unable to pay her fully, and that she had five grandchildren to keep. The Board, on consideration thought they could not excuse an owner of property, but from a knowledge of the circumstances of such a deserving case, the members of the Board subscribed the sum required, and paid the rate.

In reference to the dangerous culvert bridge near the Cross Keys, the Surveyor again reported that the Benthall surveyor had not yet agreed to do the portion of the work on his side, being anxious to consult some of the more influential of the parishioners. He was desired to press Mr. J. Burton as to the necessity of the matter, of which the Broseley share is a very small matter.

It was reported that the persons interested in the work done by the Board at Mrs. Corfield’s premises had all paid, with the exception of Mrs. Corfield herself and that she had not answered the letter sent to her by the Clerk.

The tender of Mr. Hiram Lloyd for the making of a culvert at the Pitts yard, at £4 8s. 8d was accepted.

Some work at Padman’s Alley was also ordered to be done.

In connection with the nuisance complained of by Mrs. Bradshaw, it was reported that as the house was not occupied, the Board had no power to do anything in respect of the closet complained of.

A contract of £20 for the removal of ashes from the public ashpits, &c., was accepted.

A bill sent in by Mr. John Walton, far gauging the Mine Spout and other work, was referred to Mr. G. Maw for approval.

The list of rate defaulters was gone into, and orders made.

There was no other business of public interest.

22^nd January 1881

JACKFIELD.

Yesterday afternoon week the children belonging to the Church Sunday School had a treat given to them by the Rector. They assembled about four o’clock in the school rooms, and were regaled with tea, cake, and buns. The teachers and members of the Church choir, &c., then sat down to a social tea, after which various games were started for the children, and kept up with great spirit until seven o’clock, several part-songs being given by the choir. The young people were then admitted into an adjoining room, where a noble Christmas tree met their view, brilliantly lighted, and tastefully decorated with upwards of three hundred toys, workboxes, inkstands, dolls, drawing-slates, kites, whips, tops, marbles, &c., which were judiciously distributed, and gave unmistakable pleasure; in fact, this was the climax of enjoyment. The success of the treat was in a great measure due to the willing and untiring efforts of the Sunday School teachers, Mrs. Hughes, the adult members of the choir, and Messrs. William and Adam Jones, who kindly selected and conveyed the tree. At the close of the entertainment hearty cheers were given for the Rector, Superintendent and teachers of the Sunday School, and Mrs, Hughes. The National Anthem was then sung, and an orange given to each child on having for home. Mr. T. R. Burroughs, the Superintendent, was, unfortunately, not well enough to be present.

GRADIENTS ON THE PROPOSED
BROSELEY RAILWAY.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE WENLOCK AND LUDLOW EXPRESS

Sirs,- It is difficult to gather from Mr Wilson’s letter of the 13^th inst what he is anxious to prove or disprove by the figures he gives as the results of his workings, for they again closely agree with my corresponding figures, the result of an independent survey. I give the height of the Lamp-post by the Pritchard Memorial as 369.37 feet. Mr Wilson’s assistant ascertained the height of the field at the top of the Foundry Lane to be 361.51 feet, both levellings being taken at exceptionally high water in the Severn. Mr Wilson goes on the say that the level of the Bridgnorth Road at the top of the Foundry Lane is quite 8 feet below the Pritchard Memorial. The two independent levellings agree, therefore within 14-100 of a foot or say about and inch and a half. If we add 4 feet to each figure to bring the, into relation with the average height of the Severn the lamp-post by the Pritchard Memorial will be 373.37 feet, and the height of the field at the top of the Foundry Lane would be 364.51 feet above the average height of the Severn. Now taking Mr Wilson’s own figures, as expressed in gradients, the proposed site of Broseley station above the average height of the Severn is but 267.92 feet, so that the field at the top of the Foundry lane, and the lamp-post by the Pritchard Memorial, both low points in the town, would respectively be 106.59 and 115.45 feet above the site of the proposed station in Dr Thrrsfield orchard as marked on Mr Wilson’s plan. Now as Mr Wilson has taken a contour of the surface, will he be kind enough to state, for the information of the public, how deep underground his gradient of one in forty would bury the station in Dr Thursfield orchard? bearing in mind that it would be 115½ feet below the level of the road adjacent to the lamp-post by the Pritchard Memorial. It is useless “beating about the bush,” or throwing dust in people’s eyes in a simple question of fact.

It is not the fact that, after reducing the ascent to Broseley by his enormously high bridge over the Severn, Mr Wilson’’s gradients of one in forty only brings him up to about 170 feet out of the remaining 260 or 270 feet  to the lowest point in Broseley.

Has Mr Wilson not a word to say about his misquotation from my letter which altered my figures to the extern of 79 feet? – I am, Sir, yours faithfully,

GEORGE MAW.

Benthall Hall, near Broseley,

Jan. 15^th, 1880.

THE TOWING PATH.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE WENLOCK AND LUDLOW EXPRESS,

Sir,— As a property owner and one of those who is annoyed by the depredations caused by the inflowing of the water during times of severe floods. I must ask the favour of a corner in your Journal, unite especially to tender you my warm thanks for the excellent article which appeared in the Express last week on the state of this portion of the banks of the Severn. If the article in question turns out to be the means of something being done, I, along with others, will feel ourselves deeply indebted both to yourself and to your valuable journal. I have spent in repairing my property damaged by the influence of the Severn, during the last ten years, a very large sum. Much might have been avoided if proper attention had been paid by the commissioners to the defective state of the river wall. It is high time that pressure was brought to bear upon the responsible parties, whosoever they might be. This state of things has existed for many years, and, if not attended to, will seriously endanger property, not only along the banks, but even a distance beyond them.—I am, Sir, yours very truly,

A PROPERTY OWNER

Coalport, Jan. 18 1881.

19th January 1881

TO THE EDITOR OF THE WENLOCK AND LUDLOW EXPRESS,

Sir, Broseley, at all times behind its neighbouring town, has at last woke up and thinks it is time that something was done to relieve the distress now existing, owing to the stoppage of all out-door work caused by the severe weather, and a committee, I believe, is now formed to collect subscriptions to meet urgent wants. At times, like the present, I know our tradesmen are always ready to help forward any good cause; but with heavy rates, &c, this tax weighs upon some very heavily, considering that with the exception of two or three families (to whom all honour given) the whole of the upper ten send to London and other large town for the whole of their requirements, and yet the struggling shopkeeper is one to the first to whom they appeal for help is made, and if he does not come out handsomely a many are ready to utter anathemas against him for his seeming interference as to the wants of his fellow-creatures. I know, from many years’ experience that all article of wear and consumption can be procured in our own town at process which will stand the test of any large town purchase. I think, in all fairness, every one should, as far as possible, do all the good they can for their own town.- Yours truly.

ONE WHO BUYS AT HOME.

Broseley,

26^th Jan, 1881

BROSELEY

BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS.- Tuesday. Before W. Layton Lowndes (chairman), J. A. Anstice; E. Roden, T G Thursfield, and G Maw Esqrs.

Mr W Davies, of the Seven Stars beerhouse applied to the Bench to know if he might allow a game called “The Railway Trip” to he played in his house at Broseley, or if he could get a licence to do so. The Chairman told the applicant that if it were an old licensed house the game might be played without providing it were not for gambling purposes. Being a beerhouse, a licence would be necessary, but the Bench had no power, even if they were inclined to do so, to grant a licence, except at the general annual licensing meeting. —Mr Davies intimated that

CHARGE OF HOUSEBREAKING.—. John Anderson, who was stated to be between 15 and 16 years of age was charged with having on the 28th of September broken into the dwelling house of Charles Evans, slip maker of Broseley Wood, and stolen a pair of skates, value 2s.—Sarah Evans, wife of the prosecutor, stated that the skates produced belonged to her husband. On the 28th September they were on the pantry shelf in her house. The pantry shelf is close to a window. Witness heard something move in the pantry, and went to see what it was. She saw prisoner with his hand through the window with the skates in is hand. Spoke to him and asked him what he was doing, and he laughed and went away, He dropped the skates, one of which remained on the pantry shelf, and the other was outside the window. Witness went round the building but did not see anything more of him.- Cross-examined by prisoner: You had the skates in your hand. You dropped them when I spoke to you. — Mrs Evens was subsequently recalled and said the window was a leaded one, and that prisoner had forced a perforated zinc pane in it, pushing it away from the wall to which it was fastened.- P.C. Brew deposed to apprehending prisoner on warrant. Prisoner said, when charged, “I was there, but I never took them away from the place.” He also intimated that Mrs Evans had caught him in the act, and said “Don’t take them, they are Charley’s.”- Prisoner said he could get a pair of skates of the kind for 8d. at Wellington. When charged, prisoner said he hoped the Bench would put a bit of money for him to pay; he did not want to go back to Shrewsbury. He had been there a week already.- He was committed to take his trial at the Assizes.

This was all the business.

RELIEF FOR THE DISTRESSED POOR.

On Monday evening last a meeting was held in the Town Hall to take into consideration the best means for relieving the distressed poor in the town, it being estimated that there are 300 persons in need of relief. The chair was occupied by the Rev G Fleming Lamb, Rector, and among those present were Mr E Glover Bartlam, Mr E W Shorting, Mr F H Potts, Mr H M Bathurst, Dr Hart, Mr Wiggins, Mr R Rushton, Mr J Mason, Mr H P Dunnill, Mr G Baker, Mr F H Martin, Mr R Instone, Mr T Howell, Mr W Close, &c.

Committees were formed, the town being mapped into districts for the purpose of obtaining subscriptions, and to seek out and relieve cases of distress. Letters were reed from Mr Alderman Nicholas and Mr E B Potts, regretting their inability to be present.

The following amounts were subscribed the room, and it was decided to write to Lord Forester, Mr A H Brown, M.P., Mr C T W Forester, M.P., and other gentlemen asking them to aid the object:- Mr Alderman Nicholas, £5; Mr E B Potts, £5; Mr H Maw £5, the rev G Fleming Lamb £1 1s; Mr F H Potts, £1 1s; Dr Hart £1 1s; Mr Dunnill, £1 1s; Mr Bartlam £1 1s; Mr R Rushton, £1 1s; Mr R Instone £1 1s; Mr Bathurst, 10s 6d; Mr Martin, 10s 6d; Mr Stevens, 10s 6d; Mr Howells, 10s; Mr Martin 5s; Mr Wiggins, 5s; Mr Baker, 5s; and the following subscriptions have been received since- Dr Thursfield £2 2s; Mr W Burnet, £1 1s; Rev W H Wayne 10s; Mr Southorn, 10s; Mr W Southorn, jun. 10s; Mr Tedman 7s 6d; Miss Stabliss, 5s; Mr Stephen Hill, sen 5s; Mr Watts, 5s; Mr Lister, 5s; Mr J B Nevett, 4s; Mr H Broadhurst, 2s 6d; Mrs Bailey, 2s 6d; Mr J Instone, 2s 9d; Mr G Green, 2s; in addition to which it was stated that there was a balance of £18 remaining from the last relief fund.

It was decided to distribute, as the most convenient form of relief, bread and bacon, and the first distribution took place on Wednesday.

We may mention that a number of persons have during the continuance of the frost, distributed privately large quantities of soup, &c, to their poorer neighbours, a large number of whom are frozen out.

A committee was formed, and the town divided into six districts, and assigned as follows: District No 1, Mr Shorting and Dr Hart; 2, Mr Baker and Mr Martin; 3, Mr R Instone and Mr Wiggins; 4, Mr R Rushton and Mr Howells; 5, Mr F H Potts and Mr Mason; 6, Rev G Lamb.

On Tuesday morning a house to house visit was made in each district by the committee named with a view to finding out the number of persons known out of work by the present sever weather, regard being had in each case to the number in family, and to the general circumstances affecting each.

On Tuesday evening the committee again met in the Town Hall, and every case upon the books was investigated and adjudicated upon. The cases were divided into two classes, A and B, those in class A receiving 4lb loaf and 1lb bacon for 2d, and those in class B receiving a 2lb loaf and ½lb bacon for 1d. The following list shows the particulars for each district.

            Number of cases Class     Class

                        Relieved              A.       B.

District No. 1 …               26         17         9

District No. 2 …   50         31       19

District No. 3 …   38         20       18

District No. 4 …   22           9      13

District No. 5 …   15           6        8

District No. 6 …   36         17       19        

Totals ………….   186       100       86

It will thus be seen that in 186 cases immediate relief has been given in the manner above stated, the first distributions having taken place in the Town hall, Broseley, on Wednesday morning last. About 50 other cases have already come to the notice of the Committee, and a meeting was held on Thursday evening to take those into consideration. The second distribution took place on Friday morning to the increased members, and it is contemplated to continue the distribution two or three times a week if the severe weather continues and the fund will permit it. Taking the total number of cases as 240, it is calculated that each distribution will cost a little over £9, towards which the receipts will pay about one sixth, thus reducing the cost of each distribution to a little under £8. The subscriptions at present in hand amount to £33 1s 6d exclusive of and old balance in the Saving’s Bank amounting to £18 9s. 4d. Further subscriptions will be gladly received by Mr Baker, honorary secretary.

5^th February 1881

BROSELEY.

LOCAL BOARD— The fortnightly meeting of this Board was held on Wednesday evening at the Town Hall. Mr. H. P. Dunnill was voted to the chair, and there were also present Messrs Lister, Rushton, R. Burton, and P. Jones; Mr. Owen Harries, clerk.—The Water Supply: The Clerk reported that he had received the plans and specifications in connection with the proposed water works front Mr. Massey, the engineer, and that he had also received the altered plans for the reservoirs from Messrs. Potts on behalf of Lord Forester. In the unavoidable absence of the Chairman and other members it was decided to adjourn the matter.—The Cemetery: Question : The Chairman (Dr. Thursfield) had been deputed to see Messrs. Potts in respect to some ground near the parish church, and the consideration of this matter was also adjourned.—Hockley : It was decided to accept the tender of the Gas Company for a lamp at Hockley, as recommended the general purposes committee, at £1 14s., but as the winter is so far advanced it was  not considered desirable to light it till next season.—Nuisance: A nuisance complained of by Mr John Jones in Chapel Street, was referred to the Inspector of Nuisances.

JACKFIELD.

Gas Explosion.- On Wednesday night an explosion of gas took place in the house of Mr. William Jones, the Calcutts, Jackfield, caused by the fracture of the pipes from the severe frost. One of Mr. Jones’s sons who entered the room with a lighted candle was burnt, and the family was much alarmed, thought fortunately the damage was slight.

12^th February 1881

BROSELEY.

PROVIDENT Society.—The annual balance sheet of the above society has just been issued. The president is the Right Hon. Lord Forester; trustees. The Hon end Rev Canon Forester, John Pritchard Esq., the Rev George F Lamb, William Nicholas, Esq.; treasurer, William Nicholas, Esq.; committee for 1881, the four trustees above-named, Mr George Baker, Mr Alfred Harvey, Mr Edwin Glaze, Mr Thomas Maddox, Mr Henry Williams, Mr James Maiden, Mr Michael Evans ; stewards, Mr William Williams, jun., and Mr John Rothing ; auditors, Mr H M Bathurst, Mr Isaac Watts, and Mr George Davis; surgeons, Mr Bartlam, Dr Thursfield, and Dr Hart; clerk, Mr George Langford. The following is the report of the committee and statement of accounts:— “The Committee in this their 30th annual report have again to congratulate the members on the prosperity and usefulness of the society, and, although there has been a considerable amount paid in sick relief and funerals during the past year, the receipts have exceeded the payments by the sum of £45 6s 5d, making the balance in favour of the society, £1.421 63 4d, as shewn below. It is now upwards of 30 years since the late George Pritchard, Esq, and the Hon. and Rev O W W Forester (now Canon Forester) suggested that a well-established benefit society would be a great advantage to the working and industrious classes in Broseley and its immediate neighbourhood, and, accordingly, in the year 1850 this society was commenced, and has continued to flourish to the present time. Its management and progress has been regularly made public in the annual reports and audited statements of the receipts and expenditure. Since the commencement of the Society there has been paid to the members £1,143 16s 11d in sick pay, £100 in funerals of members, £485 17s 9d in bonuses; making a total of £1,799 14s 8d. The committee are much pleased with these results, and that the Society has been productive of so much good, and been so well appreciated by those whose assistance and benefit the promoters had in view. In compliance with rule 39, the quinquennial examination of the Society’s affairs by the actuary, Mr Neisson, will take place in the current year, for which purpose a complete statement of its accounts and proceedings for the past five years, will be prepared and laid before him, and his opinion will be asked as to the disposal of any surplus which may have arisen since the date of the last examination, after making ample provision for all future claims of the society. The number of members now on the books is 100. Abstract of the treasurer’s account for the year ending the 31st December 1880 :—Receipts: Balance in favour of the Society, 81st December, 1879, £1.375 19s 11d : contributions for sickness, £85 19s 5d ; ditto forfeits. £1 19s 11d ; ditto surgeons, 8s; London and North Western Railway Co., interest, £24 9s; Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Co., ditto, £14 9s 8d; Great Western Railway Co, ditto, £2 18s 9d; Bridgnorth Savings’ Bank, ditto, £8 0s 10d; Managers of Quatt School, ditto. £1 6s 3d.; ditto on account of principal, £15,-1,547 15s 1d— Payments: Sick pay. £78 4s 11d  surgeons, £17 13s 4d; printing annual repasts, 10s 6d; funeral of John Beddow, £5 ditto John Beard, £5; ditto William Lloyd, £5; savings bank, the principal money received from Quatt School £15; balance carried down, £1,421 6s 4d- £1547 15s 1d.—Balance in favour of the society 31st December 1880. £1,421 6s 4d; ditto, 1873, £1,315 19s 11d; excess of income over expenditure, £45 6s 5d.- The above  mentioned balance of £1,421 5s 4d is invested as follows:- £131 16s 0d, Bridgnorth Savings Bank; £7 19s, trustees of Quatt School; £400, Lancashire and Yorkshire bond; £700 London and North Western Railway bond., 4 per cent debenture st0ck.”

BROSELEY.

BROSELEY BOYS’ SCHOOL.—The following entry been made upon the certificate of the headmaster, by W B Yarde Esq, Her Majesty’s Inspector of Schools:- “Mr Close has been in charge of this school about three months. He found it in a very inefficient condition, and has not had time as yet to effect much improvement.”

THE RELIEF FUND.—The last distribution of relief in connection with this fund took place yesterday (Friday). There has been seven distributions, and the following is an account of the provisions given to the poor:— Bacon 11621bs; 4lb loaves of bread, 776 ; 2lb loaves, 756. The committee have worked assiduously and carefully in the work of relief and great praise is due also to Mr. George Baker, the Honorary Secretary, for his indefatigable exertions in the cause.

THE WEATHER AND THE FLOOD

The weather of the past week has been of the most varied character, though there has not been a return of the severe frost. On Sunday we had a clear bright day with frost and a beautiful frosty moonlight night but early on Monday morning snow began to fall heavily with a severe gale, the wind appearing to blow from all quarters; the snowstorms lasted till mid-day the ordinary depth being five or six inches, thought in many places it had drifted to as many feet, and there was much delay of traffic, considerable difficulty being experienced in keeping the railway liens open. A rapid thaw followed, an heavy rain falling during the evening and night the snow had disappeared. Tuesday was rainy and stormy, and the Severn was rapidly rising.  Wednesday was a fine and bright warm morning, but towards the evening heavy rain again set in and continued through the night, and more or less during Thursday, while yesterday (Friday) snow again fell slightly. On Wednesday afternoon and evening the Severn began to rise in an extraordinarily rapid manner, and on Thursday morning had covered the road on the Wharfage and continued to rise until Friday morning, being the highest flood since 1869. As showing the character of the season we may mention that since 1869 the Wharfage has not been covered till this season, and this is the fifth time since last October that it has occurred. Of course all the lowlying lands in the valley towards Shrewsbury are under water, thousands of acres are submerged. At the Meadow several of the cottagers have suffered much by these continual floodings. The house of Mrs. Edwards, a widow, residing there was invaded, and so rapidly did the flood come up that the poor woman had to wade over knee-deep through the water about four o’ clock on Thursday morning to get the assistance of her neighbours to remove her pig. The house of Thomas Millington living near was also inundated to the depth of several feet, the water at the time of our visit rising at the rate of four inches an hour. These people complain very much of the losses to which they are subjected by these frequent floods, a loss which can ill be afforded. The garden of H. Boycott, Esq., The Firs, and those near were deeply submerged as were also the ornamental grounds of A. Maw, Esq., Severn House, and the lower grounds of E. Burton, Esq., Eastfield. Below this the house of Mr Robinson was inundated, and the large malthouse belonging to Messrs. Owen and the range of stabling near. At the Coalbrookdale company’s timber yard there was also a large influx of water, and precautions had to be taken for the security of the valuable timber on the ground. The house of W Bennett (the wall of on outhouse of which bears a plate recording the height of the flood of 1795) was flooded, as were several houses in Nailor’s Row, whose inmates were compelled to make use of the back doors which open into the street. At Severn Warehouse the water was in to some depth, and what little business could be accomplished was done over a series of plank bridges. At the Swan Hotel the cellars were flooded, and also several of those along the Wharfage. Mr Wollstein, of the White Heart, was flooded in, as was Mr Welsh, and the communications with Mark Keay’s, the Wheat Sheaf, was carried out by means of  a boat, men being at work in raising the floors to prevent flooding. On the opposite side of the bridge, several cottages were flooded, the inmates having to take up their quarters in the upstairs rooms, while below the high banks prevent such flooding, though at Jackfield, the ordinary connection with many of the houses near the stream were cut off. The news from the higher reaches of the river show that the floods have been very heavy, and the water is expected to be higher. At Shrewsbury, on Wednesday, the river is stated to have risen 10 feet in twenty four hours, and the streets in the lower parts had to be traversed by means of boats. At the times of writing, the water which had been at a stand-still for about 12 hours, was slowly falling.

19^th February 1881

IN A CORNER.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE WENLOCK AND LUDLOW EXPRESS

Sir.—I have looked in vain through the last three numbers of your journal for any reply from Mr Wilson to my letter of January the 15th respecting the gradients of the proposed Broseley Railway. I therein asked him two simple questions which he avoids replying to. The first was whether he would publish the results of his own levellings through Dr. Thursfield’s orchard and thereby let us know how deep underground his gradient of one in forty would place the proposed station. My second question was to ask him to give some explanation of his having published a misquotation from my former letter with the effect of altering my figures to the extent of 89ft. in vertical height. I can understand his not being willing to give the information asked for in my first question, but as to the misquotation I should have thought that after having written so much he would gladly have been able to state that it was an accident and not made intentionally.

I have not yet received any notice of Mr Wilson’s threatened action against me for malicious slander.-I am, sir, yours faithfully,

GEORGE MAW. Benthall Hall, near Broseley,

Feb. 12th, 1881.

BROSELEY

LOCAL BOARD MEETING

The monthly meeting of the above Board was held on Wednesday night at the Town Hall. There were present- Dr Thursfield (chairman), Messrs. H P Dunnill, H M Bathurst, and R Rushton; Mr G Baker from the Clerk’s office; and Mr G Stevenson Inspector of Nuisances.

THE WATER WORKS

The Chairman said the first business was the question of the waterworks. The Clerk had written to him stating that the plans had been sent in and had been forwarded by him to the Local Government Board for their sanction, and that the Board could not do anything in the matter till they came back. They had, however, the basis of terms for the land returned with alteration from Messrs. Potts, but he was afraid several of the conditions were of such a character as they could not agree with. He proceeded to point out these matters from the draft, and it was ordered to lie on the table.

THE PROPOSED CEMETERY

A conversation took place on the subject of the Cemetery, the Chairman remarking that the two sites already mentioned were out of the question, as Mr Exley objected to the Red Church site, being within the distance of 200 yards, and General Jenkinson objected to the site adjoining the parish church on account of its being within the same distance of Broseley Hall.

Mr Rushton considered the expense of making the cemetery and road would be more than they could bear.

Mr Dunnill said it was important to take the present opportunity of making the road otherwise it was unlikely that it would be done during this generation. He has heard it said, do what you will, Jackfield people would not come to Broseley to buy. That was surely a question of facility and advantage. Make the approach easy, and the market an average as to advantage, and the ordinary inducements for purchases would apply. But that was a limited view of the matter. How many people worked in Jackfield who lived in Broseley? He found in the firm of which he was a member between 30 and 40 of their employees resided in Broseley, all bread-winners, and representing a population of over 100. Taking all the other works, he should say that over 500 were living in Broseley whose daily bread was either won by or for them in Jackfield. This would increase, and when Messrs Maw’s large new works were in full swing there would probably be 1000 persons living in Broseley whose bread-winners worked in Jackfield. Add to these the tradespeople in Broseley, among whom the earnings were spent, and property owners whose houses are occupied, and you get half the present population who are immediately and vitally interested in the continued and increasing prosperity of Jackfield. In the nature of things Jackfield would be the manufacturing spot where money was earned, not by living upon each other but by making articles for use elsewhere; bringing money back into the neighbourhood for the payment of wages, mainly spent in Broseley. Keep the toilsome hill difficult of access, and your parish roads miry, and you drive away people from the natural living suburb. Suppose an intelligent landed proprietor at Buildwas, with an outlook beyond the length of his own shadow, building a model village with roads and drainage, made under the best engineering skill available, and that he induces the railway company to run convenient working men’s trains at low contract rates of say 6d per week, what a stampede there would be from Broseley and Jackfield, and then tradesmen and property owners would have ample leisure to count the number of tenantless houses and indulge in vain regrets that they had by want of foresight let the people go. It was likely that there would soon be a railway station at Jackfield, a direct road without toll, would be a great advantage to Broseley, and if the gradients were not too steep, it might be feasible to have on it at little cost, a light passenger tramway. If this could be done and the cars ran workmens hours, at a very low contract rate, there could be no question of the enormous convenience and benefit to all.

The Chairman said they ought to encourage people to come and live in Broseley, out of the smoke and dirt of the manufacturing part of the place. As a sanitary board it was their duty to try and induce them to live in the healthier part of the place. The expense would amount to 1½d  rate for the cemetery and one of the same amount  for the road, and the payment would be spread over a period of 30 years, and then if they got a station at Jackfield as Mr Dunnill encouraged them to think they would they have a toll free carriage road to the railway, which would be a great boon.

Mr Dunnill said he believed it was pretty nearly settled that the Great Western railway Company would build a station at Jackfield, and he thought it would be a very great mistake of they did not make the road. He might point out that his firm paid one-eight of the rates, and the expense would fall to a great extent upon them; but he considered the making of the road a matter of necessity.

Ultimately, it was suggested by Mr Rushton that the matter had better be deferred for a larger meeting of the Board, and it was arranged that notice should be given to the members that at the next meeting Mr Dunnill would propose, and Mr Bathurst, second, a proposition to form a cemetery at the point marked “F” on the plan prepared, and that a road to Jackfield should be formed in connection with it.

THE BRIDGE AT THE CROSS KEYS.

The tender of Mr Hiram Lloyd to place a fence wall at the culvert at the Cross Keys, between Broseley and Benthall parishes, at £8 16s 7d, was accepted.

THE CENSUS ACT

The circular of the Census Commissioners requesting the assistance of the Board in the taking of the census in April was read by the Chairman, and the Surveyor was instructed to have the street names placed in position at once.

THE ROAD AT THE DUNGE

The Chairman reported that the fence walls were coming down near the Dunge, in consequence of the level workings for coal, the cost of repair being estimated at £50, with a probability of further cost. The proper course was to call upon the owner to make good his fences.

It was unanimously resolved that the Clerk be instructed to write to Mr Thursfield, Lord Forester’s agent, asking him to repair the fences at once, in accordance with the statute.

THE SLIP NEAR JACKFIELD CHURCH

The Chairman mentioned the question of the slip near St Mary’s Memorial Church, Jackfield, and stated that Mr Maw had estimated the cost of a new road at £200, of which Messrs Maw offered to contribute £50, General Jenkins £50, and he had no doubt the Board would do the same, and perhaps the inhabitants of Jackfield might get together and subscribe the remainder.

Some conversation ensued, and Mr Dunnill suggested that as a railway engineer was about to visit Jackfield in the matter of the station, he might consult with a couple of members of the Board on the matter before anything was done.

In reference to the matter, the Chairman said that 50 yards of the wall belonging to General Jenkins had been overthrown by the late flood, probably in consequence of the current being diverted by operations on the other side of the river.

TOW PATH AGAIN

The question of the state of the towing  path came before the Board, and it was stated that the Towing Path Commissioner had no funds to repair the road and that the tolls did not bring in sufficient to do so and that an offer had been…

5^th March 1881

Public Notices

THE BROSELEY GAS AND

COKE COMPANY, LIMITED.

THE DIRECTORS of the above COMPANY HEREBY GIVE Notice,that the PRICE OF AS supplied to the Consumers (Contract accounts excepted)

HAS BEEN REDUCED

to 5s. 5d. per thousand feet as from the let day of January last, and that the following discounts will allowed for payment of the accounts when presented, or within one month of the end of each quarter.

To Consumers of under 20,000 feet per annum               6 per cent,

“         “               20,000 and under

60,000 feet per annum                          10 „

To Consumers of 60,000 feet and upwards

per annum                                          16 „

By Order,

JOHN POUNTNEY,

Secretary.

Church Street, Broseley.

2nd March, 1881.

BROSELEY

It will be seen on reference in our advertising columns that the directors of the Broseley Gas and Coke Company have reduced the price of gas. The price of gas here by the reduction, and taking the average of the three rates of discount, is now cheaper than it has ever been in this district- 4s 10½d per 1,000. We are sure the inhabitants of this town will be grateful for this concession, especially during such a depression in trade which now, and for a long time, has existed in this town.

LOCAL BOARD MEETING.

A meeting of the urban sanitary authority was held at the Town Hall on Wednesday evening last, when there were present—Dr. T G Thursfield (chairman), Messrs. H Dunnill, J C W Lister, R Burton, P Jones, and H M Bathurst; Mr Owen Harries, clerk; Mr G Ledger, surveyor ; and Mr G Stevenson, inspector of nuisances.

On the minutes being read some questions were asked in respect of the site for the proposed cemetery by Mr Lister, but the matter was taken further on.

In respect to the bases of terms for the land for the proposed waterworks, Mr Burton asked what were the bases of terms, as he had not been present, which brought the retort from the Chairman that those who did attend could not spend their time night after night in going over the same ground-Mr Burton ought to have been present.

In answer to a question the Survey or reported that the names of the streets had not yet been fixed, but they were being proceeded with.

In reply to a letter or the Clerk a note was read from Lord Forester’s agent, Mr T H Thursfield, promising to examine the dangerous state of the fences near the Dunge Farm.

Mr Stevenson reported that be had written to Mr Potts in respect of the broken wall on the Quarry Road and he had noticed that they had been repaired.

THE PROPOSED WATERWORKS.

The Chairman read extracts from a letter received from the Local Government Board in respect of the proposed waterworks, asking for copies of the newspaper notices, and as the Board noticed that a portion of the works would be without the parish, a declaration that notices had been served on all owners and occupiers, and requesting to know if any objection had been received by the Board.

The Clerk said he had replied to the letter, sending copies of the notices served and the newspaper notices, and also a declaration of the serving of the notices, and acquainting the Local Government Board that no objections had been made. The Local Government Board had enclosed lithographed plans of waterworks for the information of the Board.

The members of the Board examined the plans, and thought they might perhaps have been useful if they had been sent before.

THE CEMETERY QUESTION

Mr Dunnill asked what was the result of the trial of the ground at the “F” site for the cemetery.

Mr Bathurst said there the trial hole disclosed there was six feet of bastard clay mixed with pennystone, below which was sand, which was full of water.

Mr Lister: That is not desirable.

The Chairman read the regulations, which were to the effect that the Board had power to drain or place sufficient amount of soil on the ground to make a dry depth of 8ft.

Some conversation took place on the subject of drawing the ground, and a further long conversation on the subject of the road, it being almost a sine qua non that a good road to Jackfield should be made in connection with the proposed cemetery.

The plan of the proposed road was produced and the question of the most desirable sites which cannot be obtained were discussed ad neauseam. Ultimately the Board decided, after a close consultation the plans, to select a piece of ground near the bottom of Cockshut Lane, and if this piece should be desirable to continue the road leading to the Birch Meadow Chapel to the site and thence by making a road of the footpath leading by the Red Church to Jackfield.

THE ELECTION.

Messrs Burton, Bathurst, and Thursfield are the members retiring by rotation in April.

It was unanimously resolved that Mr Owen Harries should be appointed returning officer, and that in case of opposition a special meeting should be called to arrange the details.

THE ADULTERATION ACT.

Mr Lister asked if they had power to direct the Inspector to procure and have analysed samples of milk. There was finite an epidemic of diarrhoea in the town and in most cases it appeared to he attributed to milk.

It was unanimously resolved that if the Inspector had any complaint in the matter he should obtain samples and send them for analysis to Mr Blount, of Shrewsbury.

THE SLIP AT JACKFIELD

A deputation from Jackfield, composed of Messrs. E Oakes, Lloyd, W Beard, Joseph Oswell, J H Humphries, and Hiram Hill, attended to complain (by resolution of a public meeting) of the road beyond St Mary’s Church, Jackfield, to the Salthouse and Werps.

Mr Oakes, as spokesman, said they had been deputed by the inhabitants of Jackfield to come to the Board in respect of their grievances as to the roads at Jackfield Mr Oakes proceeded to describe the inconvenience and loss the inhabitants had been subjected to by the state of the roads, particularly on the slip near the church, and so on up Messrs Maw’s new road and on the towing path, and which was getting worse and worse. Private endeavours had been made by the shooting of rubble and refuse on be road to make it passable, but it continued to give way,  and people had no passable road to their houses. He himself did get a load of goods by the Great Western Company lately but they positively declined to come any more. He had had some material carted to repair the wall at Square near his own property to preserve it.

The members of the deputation all corroborated Mr Oakes’s statements. And each had a similar tale to tell of loss and inconvenience.

A long desultory conversation took place on the matter, the Board admitting their liability, but not knowing how to commence and looking at the heavy expense at such a time of depression. In Jackfield there was a very small amount of parish road, but unfortunately what there was was very expensive. He thought, however, that they ought to expend at least the amount of the rate raised in Jackfield on the roads. This matter of the slip was rather a difficult one, and until the summer same it would be impossible to deal with it as suggested by the deputation by a retaining wall or piles. He would therefore suggest that the surveyor be instructed to place upon the road such a quantity of metal as might be necessary to make the road passable for the present, and that at the proper time the question of the slip could be gone into.

Some suggestions were made that the inhabitants might meet the Board as to the expense, and Mr Burton thought General Jackson should be communicated with, as it was really all his land that was slipping.

Ultimately it was decided that the road should be repaired in the manner suggested by the Chairman, and that Messrs Dunnill and Jones should superintend the work, and have the road put in as good order as was possible under the circumstances.

The deputation thanked the Board and retired.

The list of rate defaulters was gone through and the meeting terminated.

JACKFIELD.

PUBLIC MEETING.—On Monday last a public meeting was held in the schoolroom, Jackfield, to take into consideration the state of the roads at Jackfield Mr E Oakes occupied the chair, and there were about 40 present. Mr W Hill proposed, and Mr J R Humphries seconded, and it was carried unanimously that if the Broseley Local Board did not pay due attention to the Jackfield roads that the ratepayers should refuse to pay the rates. A deputation was appointed by the same meeting, whose names will be found in our report of the Broseley Local Board meting.

COAL STEALING BY BOYS.-  Joseph Jones and William Griffiths, both boys of about 12 years of age, were charged with stealing coal from the works of Messrs. Maw and Co., at Jackfield.—Edmund Morgan appeared to prove the case but it was not gone into. The mothers of the boys agreeing to pay the costs 6s 6d each. They said the lads were sent to pick cinders.—The Mayor told them the Bench did not think the boys so much to blame as their parents.

5^th March 1881

IRONBRIDGE

FOUND IN A RAILWAY TRUCK.—At the Mayor’s Court, Shrewsbury, on Thursday, a young man named Thomas Turner was charged with being in a Great Western Railway truck at the Station for a unlawful purpose. That morning the prisoner was found asleep in the truck, and when asked what he was doing there, he replied that he got in at Ironbridge. He was remanded.

BROSELEY.

THE PROPOSED RAILWAY.

Mr “Rip van to Winkle” presents his compliments to the writer and congratulates him on the very good article in the Wenlock Express of the 5th March

Mr van Winckle hardly thinks the shareholders of an independent line would have to approach either of the great companies named for the purpose stated, because the cost of such a line would not be greater than would be fully met by the returns of the local traffic and would certainly not be nearly so much as that which has been named (but unofficially, it must be said) for the line lately proposed. However, there is no doubt that the local gentlemen would prefer that one of the great companies should make the line rather than that they should find the money themselves, if their interests should be proposed to be adequately served; and the only reason which Mr van Winkle can imagine for their preference for an independent line is that the line lately proposed as a branch of the London and North-Western Railway did not seem likely to afford them reasonable facilities, and he submits that it is not re-assuring to read in the article above referred to that “if the inhabitants of Broseley cannot provide for themselves such accommodation as they require they must, like the inhabitants of other places, be content with such accommodation as the companies already in the district are willing to provide for them;” and he begs to suggest that both Jackfield and Broseley should be accommodated by any future line to be proposed always supposing that the needs of these places remain the same as they were before he went to sleep. If the new order of things has since arisen, enabling a great railway company to cross a big river at the invitation of gentlemen on the other side, whereby the first step would be taken towards the centre of the district of a rival company, why, it may be so, for aught Mr van Winkle knows; but he does not think the local traffic across the river would be much bent fitted thereby. Nevertheless he would be quite content with an assurance that, when the line is again proposed, Jackfield, as well as Broseley, will be accommodated. If the promoters cannot give that—if, in short, the viaduct would be too high—then Mr van Winkle still thinks an independent line would be preferable. He does, not, however presume that he knows better than the inhabitants of the locality what sort of line would best meet their means and resources and if they are not inclined to make a line themselves it would ill become Mr van Winkle, he feels to offer any further remarks upon the subject. There is only one word more that Mr van Winkle desires to say, and it is that the Broseley Committee had decided not to proceed with the lately proposed line, before he uttered a word or wrote a line upon the question at all.

JACKFIELD.

FUNERAL OF MRS. CULLIS.- On Monday last the remains of the relict of Mr. John Cullis, of the Black Swan Inn, Jackfield, were interred in the graveyard at Broseley Parish Church. From the respect in which Mrs. Cullis and her late husband were held, the funeral was a very large one. The following are the particulars of the mournful cortege:-

The Rev E Eloyd Edwards            Mr R Burton

Mr E Exley                    Mr George Jones

Mr Hiram Hill                 Mr T Beavan

Mr B Hughes      .           Mr R Langford

Mr Joseph Meredith        Mr. Wm. Burroughs

Mr Duncan                    Mr Joseph Oswell

Mr A Jones                    Mr A J Jones.

BEARERS

Mr F Davis                     Mr Samuel Meredith

Mr M Wilde                    Mr William Wilde

Mr James Burnet                        Mr W Bates

Mr R Humphries             Mr T Hopley

MI Peter Jones               Mr William Jones

Mr T Beard                    Mr John Doughty

MOURNERS.

Masters John, Henry, and William Cullis,

Mr Instone.        Mr Meredith

Mr A Ball           Mr Harrison

FRIENDS—Numbering about 50.

19^th March 1881

“TOMMY ROGERS” FOUND AT LAST.-Thomas Rogers, labourer, of Ironbridge, was charged, in custody, with night poaching with arms on May 23, 1879. The manner of prisoner’s capture would remind one of medieval times. From “information received” our excellent sergeant, Mr. Joseph Turner, and Police-constables Davies, Brew, and Beckett, proceeded to the house of James Hill (Braething). Two of the constables were left outside and the Sergeant and P.C. Brew entered the house. Their search was for some time ineffectual, but noticing that a portion of a landing showed no corresponding space in the rooms adjoining they removed the picture hanging before it, and found a well concealed sliding panel, which was fastened inside. The Sergeant told “Tommy” it was no use, and he must come out. So the prisoner, unbolted the panel and came out and gave himself up, in a nude state, the officers having come upon him so suddenly that he had to jump out of bed and hide himself as he was.—R. Botfield, keeper for Lord Forester, deposed to finding prisoner on the Folley Farm with Caleb Walker, who was convicted at the time. He and a keeper named Norry saw them by a hedge. Saw them “call” a hare, and saw Rogers shoot at it. The keepers showed themselves and both men ran away. Witness followed prisoner, who turned round several times and threatened to shoot him; ultimately in presenting the gun (which was loaded) at him, prisoner stumbled and fell, and witness closed with him and took the gun from him. As he knew him well he let him go.—P.C. Brew proved the apprehension of the prisoner under the circumstances mentioned above, and P.S. Turner proved a previous conviction for the same offence at Shifnal on Sept 1st, 1876. —Prisoner said he should not have been in this country if there had been any work.—He was sentenced to four calendar months hard labour, and ordered to fined sureties for two years, himself in £20 and two sureties in £10 each, or be further imprisoned for 12 months.

26^th March 1881

TO BE LET.

THE WOOD HOUSE, situated at Broseley Wood, containing four good Rooms on first floor, with four good Bed-rooms. Capital Garden and out buildings &c. Rent moderate —Apply, Mr. Davies, Maltster, Broseley.

A CAPITAL HOUSE  pleasantly situated, at King Street Broseley, with two large Warehouses, Stabling and Coach House, with capital Garden well stocked with choice Fruit Traces.—Apply on the premises, Mr Davies, Maltster, Broseley.

MUCH WENLOCK.

PETTY SESSIONS. —TUESDAY.

Before the Mayor (T. H. Thursfield),-Ex-Mayor (T. Instone), J. A. Anstice, R. E. Anstice Esqrs., and Captain Wayne.

LICENSING BUSINESS —The license of the Black Swan Inn, Jackfield, was temporally transferred from Mary Cullis (deceased) to her daughter, Eliza Cullis. The Mayor stated that although it was an unusual case, the Bench had granted the transfer with great hesitation.— The licence of the New Inn, Madeley, was temporarily transferred from Mary Jones to Mr Ibbotson.

DOG CASES.—P.C. Brew charged Emma Glaze, of Broseley, with keeping a dog without a licence. She was fined 5s and 2s costs.- Thomas Astley, of Broseley, was also fined in the same amount and costs on a similar vital charge brought by the same officer.

BROSELEY.

LOCAL BOARD ELECTION.-We desire to call attention to the candidature of Mr E. Roden for a seat at the Local Board. We feel sure he will command a hearty and energetic support. He has been, and will be if again elected, a very useful and painstaking member. He has almost grown great in the service of his native town. We hope the ratepayers will honour these services by returning him head of the poll.

BRITISH AND FOREIGN BIBLE SOCIETY.

A meeting of the above Society was held on Thursday last in the National School, Broseley. The chair was occupied by the Rev. G. F. Lamb, Rector of Broseley, and amongst those present were the Rev. W. Evans, Congregational Minister, G. Maw, Esq., — Maw, Esq., W. Nicholas, Esq., J.P., H. P. Dunnill, Esq. The attendance was not large. The Rev. W. Dickens Lewis, M.A., attended as a deputation from the Parent Society.

BROSELEY AND JACKFIELD.

VALUABLE

FREEHOLD AND LEASEHOLD

PROPERTIES,

USEFUL BARGE AND BOAT.

TO BE SOLD BY AUCTION, BY

MR. THOS. RUSHTON.

At the LION on THURSDAY, the 21st day of APRIL., 1881, at SIX o’clock in the Afternoon in the following or such other Lots as may be determined upon at the time of sale, and subject to conditions of Sale, comprising the common Form Conditions, of the Shropshire Law Society.

AT JACKFIELD.

Lot 1.—All that desirable DWELLING-HOUSE and GROCER’S SHOP, (formerly in two Dwelling houses), with the Appurtonances thereto belonging stitaue at the Lloyd Head, Jackfield, and now in the occupation of Mr. J.R. Humphries.

These premises are held under Lease granted by the late Sir George Onesiphorus Paul, Baronet, for 99 years from the 25^th day of March 1798, if three persons therein named should so long live, under the annual rent of 10s., and which lease contains a covenant for perpetual renewal on death of each life, on the payment of One Guinea. The Dwelling-house and shop are well situated for business purposes.

Lot 2.- All those Four well-built FREEHOLD DWELLING HOUSES, situate at the Tuckies, Jackfield, with the Garden Ground and Premises thereto belonging, and now in the occupation of Joseph Andrews, John Bagnall, Enoch Davies, and Maria Colley.

AT BROSELEY.

Lot 3.-  Those TWO commodious and well built FREEHOLD DWELLING-HOUSES, together with Frontal SHOP, called the “Burnt Houses,” situate at the corner of Cape Street and Queen Street, together with the Coach-house, Brewhouse, Yard, and Appurtenances thereto belonging, and now in the respective occupations of the representatives of the late Mr Hiram Hill, Mr. George Bradley, and Mr. James Clarke, Senior.

Lot 4.—All that convenient end pleasantly situated DWELLING-HOUSE with the appurtenances thereto belonging adjoining the last Lot, and now in the occupation of Mr. John Adlington.

Lot 5.—All them SIX valuable FREEHOLD DWELLING-HOUSES, with the Outbuildings and Premises thereto belonging, situate at the Corner of Queen Street and King Street, and now in the occupation of William Boden, Richard Morris, Junior, Thomas Lloyd, Eliza Anthony, Sarah Glover, and one void.

Let 6.- All those FOUR convenient and newly-erected DWELLING HOUSES with the Yard, Outbuildings, and Appurtenances thereto belonging, situate in Queen Street, adjoining the last Lot, and now in the occupation of Emanuel Bagnall, Richard Harrison, William Love, and the other void.

Lot 7 — All that well-built BARGE, ”WILLIAM,” 65 Tons Carriage, together with all Tackle and Fittings belonging to her. Also a very useful BOAT, carrying 16 Tons. Both of which are now lying at the Lloyd Head, Jackfield.

The respective Tenants of the premises will shew the same, and any further particulars may be obtained of the Auctioneer, or from Messrs. Potts and Potts, Solicitors, Broseley.

BROSELEY LOCAL BOARD.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE WENLOCK AND LUDLOW EXPRESS

Sir,—I am not sure whether you will oblige me by granting a small corner in your valuable paper, as very likely you may consider any remarks as to the fitness or otherwise of the various candidates who are now seeking a seat at the Local Board perhaps out of the ordinary rule of newspaper correspondent. No one can deny that the candidates are highly eligible for a seat at the Board. I always was and always will be in favour of recognising long and faithful services. Mr. Roden has served the public for many years in various capacities, and with energy and ability. Now I think such services are highly deserving of some recognition at the hands of the ratepayers, who will shortly be called upon to record their votes. To reject Mr. Roden will be to lose the services of a watchful and devoted public man. As an economist, the ratepayers will find in him a friend, while not discarding any reasonable outlay which is found necessary in the carrying out of public improvements. There is the scheme for a Cemetery before the Board, and the ratepayers will do well to exercise care and discretion in their choice of members, who will be called upon to sanction a scheme such as this, which will cost a very large sum. Mr. Roden’s long and practical experience in matters of finance, make him a most suitable candidate apart from the claims he has established upon the ratepayers for long services in the interest of the town and trade of Broseley. I, for one, will work most energetically in his favour, because I am convinced that he will be no party to any scheme that will involve a vast expenditure without that due consideration and careful supervision of details that will warrant a large outlay of public money. I will record my vote and hearty support to Mr. Roden for the following reasons :

Because he is prepared to devote the whole of his time to the services of the ratepayers.

Because he has had a large and varied experience of public matters extending over many years; is a shrewd and sound economist,

Because he has served the town of Broseley well and ably, both in the Board and in the Council Chamber.

Because it would be a fitting recognition of valuable services to return him again to a seat at the Board.

Because he is a townsman, and has the time and ability to watch over the interests of the ratepayers.

Because he is in favour of any improvements with a due and strict regard to sound economy.

Because he will be a determined opponent to any scheme of extravagance, especially in these times of increased rates and bad trade.

I am, sir, yours truly,

A BROSELEY TRADESMAN,

High Street, Broseley.

THE BROSELEY LOCAL BOARD.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE WENLOCK AND LUDLOW EXPRESS.

SIR,—I trust the ratepayers of Broseley will weigh well the vote they are about to give to the various candidates now before the ratepayers seeking their support. A very important and most intricate question is before the Board, viz., a Public Cemetery. Now, I believe this Cemetery to be an urgent necessity, and it will require a most careful discussion before its cost is finally sanctioned by the Board. In this discussion we require men of long practical experience in matters of finance. In such men as Mr, Bathurst and Mr. Roden we have two good and safe candidates, and I will be much disappointed if the chosen candidates do not include these two names.- Yours Truly,

A RATEPAYER.

Jackfield.

BROSELEY.

THE ATTEMPT TO MURDER A HUSBAND.- The woman Rosini Wasmuss, who is in custody at Liverpool on a charge of attempting to murder her husband, Franz Wasmuss, by shooting him on the 17th instant, under circumstances already reported, has been again brought up, and further remanded for seven days. The wounded man, who is in the Northern Hospital, was not able to appear. It was stated that he would recover, though not out of danger. It will be remembered that the act was committed through jealousy of a Broseley girl named Martha Rowe.

The parish meeting for electing churchwardens, guardians and overseers for the parish of Broseley for the ensuing year was held at the Town Hall on Friday evening last, the 25th inst. The meeting was called for half-past eight o’clock. Mr H. M. Bathurst, the minister’s warden for the past year, has again accepted the office, and Mr. Richard Rushton was again nominated as the people’s warden. The guardians appointed are Messrs. James Burnet, Robert Burton, William Burnet, John Doughty and Richard Rushton. The list of overseers comprises the following:-  Messrs Thomas Howells, William Jones, Stephen Hill; Frank Dairs, John Garbett, and James Smith. The meeting was adjourned to Thursday, the 14th of April at the Town Hall, at eight o’clock.

9^th April 1881

TO LET, AT BROSELEY, a SHOP, well-situated near the Town Hall, with good Dwelling House attached. Fixtures to be taken to. Early possession.- Apply to THOS. LAWRENCE, High Street, Broseley. Salop.

A PUBLIC NOTICE.

PUBLIC APOLOGY.

I ANN POTTS, now living with Mr Richard  Lloyd, of Salthouse, Jackfield, do hereby apologise and declare that the accusations I have made use of respecting the personal character of Mr. and Mrs J. R. Humuphries, of the Tuckies, Jackfield, to be a fabrication of flasehoods, and also I regret having intimidated their domestic servant by further untruths; and I new publicly apologise for the same, Mr Humphries promising to withdraw the intended prosecution.

(Signed) ANN PUTT’S Mark X

Witness of Mark           JOSEPH OSWELL

            W. MORGAN.

BROSELEY

THE LOCAL BOARD ELECTION.

The announcement of the result of the Broseley Local Board election was made known at middle day on Wednesday, the returning officer, Mr Owen Harries (clerk to the Board) having attended at the Town Hall at 11 o’clock to examine and superintend the counting of the voting papers, which had been collected on the previous day. About 1,100 papers were distributed, of which 672 were returned properly signed, 70 were not signed, and 120 were spoiled or not properly filled up, making a total of 862. The three retiring members are re-elected, the following being the official figure :-

Mr. R. Burton ...       ... 475

Mr. H. M. Bathurst   ... 471

Dr. T. G. Thursfield  ... 461

Mr. E. Roden            … 424

It will be seen that the result is a very close one, Mr Roden being only beaten by Dr. Thursfield by 37 votes.

LOCAL BOARD MEETING.

The ordinary meeting of the Broseley Local Board was held on Wednesday evening last at the Town Hall. There were present—Dr. T G Thursfield (chairman). Messrs. H P Dunnill J C W Lister, R Rushton, Peter Jones, and W Burnett; Mr Owen Harries, clerk; Mr Ledger, surveyor; and Mr Stevenson, inspector of nuisances.

THE PROPOSED CEMETERY.

Dr. Thursfield said Mr Bathurst, who was to have been present to give them some information as to the proposed site near the Baptist Chapel was not at home.

Mr Lister remarked that they could only get half an acre or at most three-quarters there.

A long and most desultory conversation took place on the matter, and the “battle of the sites” was gone over and over again on the same lines as repeatedly reported before, viz., the question of the formation of the cemetery in connection with a good road to Jackfield and that of the cemetery per se, Mr Burnett thinking that in the present state of trade they should not go to any expense but what was absolutely necessary. Mr Rushton suggested the drawing of the site at Garbett’s field, which would cost £12 per acre, while Mr Burnett agreed that drains at that depth (8ft.) would not last very long. Mr Dunnill urged the necessity of a good road to Jackfield in connection with the cemetery, as so many workers at Jackfield resided in Broseley, and taxed Mr Burnet with having been one of those who had gone over the ground and agreed to the site marked F on the plan, which he now professed to know nothing about. Mr Burnet said the conditions had changed.—Mr Dunnill: You have changed.—Mr Burnet: The conditions have changed, and I have changed with them.—At length a suggestion of the Chairman’s that trial holes should be made in is field near Oakley’s catch gate was adopted, and the surveyor was directed to see the work done and report to the next meeting.

BALL’S LANE

In answer to the Chairman it was stated that mining operations were still going on near Ball’s Lane and that another slip had occurred, but Mr Jones said the parties were filling up the crowning in.

THE PROPOSED WATER SUPPLY.

Mr Lister asked if the proposed water scheme had totally collapsed.

The Chairman replied that he was not aware of it; the scheme was before the Government.

Mr Lister then asked for a return of the costs incurred over the matter, which the Clerk was directed to supply, Mr Burnet saying that this was a good idea and he should like to know.

In the course of conversation which ensued it appeared that the cause of the hitch in the proceedings was a clause required in the agreement by Lord Forester to supply his tenants with water free if they required it, while the Board were willing to put hydrants on the line of their pipes to the Mine Spout for the convenience of the tenants at present using the water.

In answer to questions it was stated that the Board had been going under the Land Consolidation Act, that they had compulsory powers, but wished to avoid the expense of bringing them into operation.

The clauses in the agreement as proposed by the Board and as proposed by Lord Forester’s agent were read by the Clerk.

After a conversation the matter was dropped, the Chairman remarking that the scheme had not collapsed.

FINANCIAL

The Clerk reported a balance of £59 19s in the treasurer’s hand; the collection of the rate was now completed, £473 2s. 9d out of an estimate of £447 17s 1d having been collected. This was considered very much to the credit of the collector.

A new rate being necessary, it was proposed that as the same amount would be required that a rate of 1s 3d in the £ should be made. A conversation ensued as to whether it would not be better to make two small rates instead of one large one, and ultimately on the proposal of Mr Lister (who first suggested the rates of 8d and 7d respectively), seconded by Mr Burnett, it was carried nem con. That the Clerk should give the necessary notices for a rate of 10d in the £ for the present. 

Mr Dunnill thought the people would grumble more having two small rates than one full one, and the Chairman agreed with him.

MEDIAL OFFICER

On the motion of Mr Lister the Clerk was directed to give notice that the Local Government Board of their desire to re-appoint Dr. Thursfield as medical officer.

MEDIAL OFFICER’S REPORT

The following annual report of the medical office was produced:-

The death rate in your district during the past year on a population estimated to the middle of 1880 was at the rate of 16.4 per 1000, due correction being made for that proportion of the population and mortality in the Madeley Union Workhouse, which properly belongs to this district.

Compared with the mean death-rate of the last four years, this shows a decrease of 5.6 per 1,000.

The following table shows certain details of mortality during 1880, compared with the same details for the whole of England and Wales for the same period:-

                                           B          E

Deaths per 1000 of population  16.4  20.7

Death from zymotic disease

 per 1,000 of population             3.0  3.24

Deaths under one year old

 per 1,000 births                    111.8  15.3

Percentage of deaths at age of

60 and upwards to total deaths             32.5  24.7

Percentage of deaths at age of

70 and upwards to total deaths 20.0  np

(B= Broseley U.S.A. E= England and Wales np = Not published)

With reference to the standard of comparison given, viz., the mortality statistics of England and Wales, I would beg to point out that these must not be taken as an absolute standard and are so fallacious in that they express mean of the extreme rates of many healthy and unhealthy districts, and with reference to the mortality statistics of your own district’s I would also beg to point out that such statistics are useless applied to large sections of population or spread over a number of years often in the highest degree fallacious. With reference to statistics of zymotic disease from only a particular portion of preventable disease and, except in severe epidemics, make a much less constant mark on the annual death rate than infantile mortality a matter, which although intimately connected with the habits of the people is much influenced by local surroundings and conditions. Moreover outbreaks of disease of the class which mat be practically considered as spreading exclusively by contact with infected person, or things such as scarlatina, measles, &c., and which as a rule attack an individual once in a lifetime, are chiefly influenced in their tendency to spread by direct having been free from such visitations for some years, and consequently containing large number of susceptible individuals and may owe their fatality to sanitary defects, peculiarities of family constitution, as often seen in scarlatina and whooping cough to a coincidence of the disease with sever weather.

It is my decided experience that out breaks of these infectious diseases which spread through personal contact are readily becoming more difficult to isolate, and require more precise care to prevent their spread. Moreover they appear to attack adults in a larger proportion of instances. Both these circumstances admit of explanation from the fact that, as outbreaks of such diseases have of late years been much more generally comprised to the house or family in which they first appeared, and epidemics have been less common, a larger and daily increasing proportion of population are growing up in a condition susceptible of taking such diseases as Scarlatina &c., than formerly, because not protected by previous attacks.

Owing to the variable proportionate mortality of infectious disease death returns are at best but unreliable indications of the amount of such disease, and this point will be referred to more fully in noticing the various outbreaks which have occurred.

With the above reservation the following table gives general information of the nature and date of the fatal cases of dangerous infectious disease which occurred in your district during the year 1880:-

Quarters          

Disease                           1^st 2^nd 3^rd 4^th total      

Small Pox            0   0    0   0    0

Measles                           0   0    0   0    0         

Scarlatina            0   1    0   0    1

Diphtheria           1   0    0   0    1

Whooping cough   0   0    0   0    0

Enteric fever        0   1    0   1    2

Total                    1   2    0   1    4

The various outbreaks of infectious disease of which the above represents the fatal results were generally traceable to direct importation or, inferentially, to the revival under favourable conditions seasonal, local, and personal, of old germs from previous visitations of disease time back, in some cases years.

These outbreaks were the subject of various special reports by me to your Board in the course of the last year, I will again briefly refer to the most remarkable of them (avoiding for obvious reasons in a report which become generally circulated, as far as possible personal allusions). In all these outbreaks the necessary precautions for isolation, &c., were inculcated and, as far as practicable, obtained, and generally with successful results, special care being taken to obviate the danger of disease dissemination by such general cases as arise form schools, milk supply, water sup[ply, contamination, &c., and that all efforts were rightly directed, as the class of disease, of which scarlatina may be taken as a type, and which spread chiefly by personal contact, require a different procedure to control their spread, to that class of disease represented by typhoid fever, the spread of which is largely dependant on local conditions. All outbreaks being considered of equal significance whether mild or fatal, and it should always be borne in mind that fatal case as a rule afford less chance of dissemination than no-fatal cases, and my experience leads me to believe that (especially in scarltina and diphtheria) one of the most frequent and insidious forms of infection is from cases where a long convalescence follows the disease, or from cases so slight as to be unrecognised at the time of their occurrence and not recovering medical attendance. It is the latter class of cases which render school such frequent and unsuspected foci for the dissemination of infectious disease.

In connection with this subject I cannot refrain from reiterating an opinion I have repeatedly expressed that nothing can be more reprehensible and opposed to the efficient isolation of infectious disease than the regulation of the Education Department, by which unless a school is closed altogether attendance of children kept away from school on account of infectious disease in their family or person are not allowed to be counted for the purposes of the Government grant in aid for the period during which they are kept away.

I especially endeavour to point out the necessity for and to obtain the efficient cleansing by lime washing, or re-papering, as the case may be, of the room or rooms which may have been occupied by any person suffering from infectious disease, and printed plain directions as to the disinfection and other precautionary measures are left in each case.

I take the opportunity of expressing my appreciation of the valuable co-operation afforded by your Inspector on investigating and controlling the various outbreaks referred to below.

Scaraltina.- One death occurred from this disease in the second quarter of the year in the neighbourhood of Broseley Wood. The origin of the outbreak was uncertain, but it was possibly imported. All precautions were taken, and the disease did not spread.

In August an outbreak occurred in the same vicinity, probably from the revival of the old germs of disease from the previous outbreak. Here, too, all precautions were taken with the result of limiting the dissemination of the disease.

In September and outbreak occurred and two houses were affected. The disease in this instance was probably imported from a neighbouring town.

In November an outbreak occurred in Quarry Road the origin of which was somewhat obscure, but was probably dependant on the revival, under favourable conditions, of old germs of the disease from previous outbreaks in the locality

In all the above outbreaks, all practicable precautions were taken with favourable results, and the disease in question has at no time during the past year assumed and epidemic form in your district. No other epidemic occurred, but one isolated case of diphtheria proved fatal in the person of a child of tender years during the first quarter of the year, and two isolated outbreaks of typhoid fever took place, in one which there was reason to believe that the infection was derived form the incautious use of Severn water, thought a supply of pure was in this instance within easy reach.

During the course of the year I have systematically at certain periods and at intervals as occasion required inspected your district in order to keep myself informed by personal observation and inquiry as to the conditions injurious to health existing therein or in conjunction with your Inspector to advise in doubtful cases, or with a view to support legal proceedings in cases where it has secured probable that such would be necessary and where requisite on other grounds I have also given suitable advice and directions.

With reference to the principles adopted by me in advising as to the proper mode of abating ordinary sanitary defects, and especially in cases requiring structural alterations and additions. I would refer your Board to previous reports of mine in which these important considerations were full gone into.

From the report of your Inspector it appears that during the year 1880 notices have been given to abate conditions injurious to health, of these 19 related to structural works and 62 to conditions liable to recurrence such as accumulations &c. Your Inspector reports that up to the present time 77 of the above notices have been complied with. It became necessary in no case to take legal proceedings to obtain the necessary statement.

With reference to the various works of sewerage and water-supply which in my opinion are required in your district, I would beg to refer you to my previous reports annual and special. I have no doubt that the plans for works of water supply for your district now in hand will, when completed, be a great sanitary improvement and benefit.

Action taken during the year in reference to the Public health (Interments) Ac, 1879.

In connection with this matter I would refer to my special report on the burial ground attached to Broseley Parish Churchyard, and I am glad that action is being taken to provide additional burial ground for the district.

I have the honour to be, gentlemen,

       Your obedient servant,

W. N. THURSFIELD, M.D., S.Sc., C. Camb.

                   Medical Officer of Health

The Chairman said the decrease of the death rate showed the sanitary authority had done some good.

Mr Burnet. And shows that the water supply is not so bad after all.

Mr Stevenson pointed out that it had been taken into consideration that the birth-rate of Broseley was very low, and as the highest proportion of deaths was among infants, the figures were not quite as good as they looked.

MILK ANALYSIS

The Inspector reported that in accordance with instructions he had forwarded three samples of milk taken as it was being retailed and sent them for analysis to the Medical Officer, whose report he now produced. The report stated that two samples of the milk were of very high-class quality, and the other above the average of town-sold milk.

This was considered highly satisfactory.

NUISANCE INSPECTORS ANNUAL REPORT

The Inspector reported as follows in respect of nuisances abated during the year 1880:-

Premises limewashed      …         …   18

Cesspools emptied          …         …   31

Accumulations of manure &c removed      8

New w.c’s constructed and old ones

removed …         …         …         …     3

New drains constructed   …         …     4

Drains repaired              …         …     3

Overcrowding abated       …         …     1

General Nuisances abated            …         …     4

Total                             …         …    77

MISCELLANEOUS

On the suggestion of Mr Lister, the Surveyor was directed to have the footpath near the chemist shop above the Lion Hotel, repaired. The Surveyor was also directed to see Mr Meredith, of the Dog Inn, in reference to placing a trough at the pump there.

A report of a nuisance at Hockley reported to the magistrates by the police and sent on by them to the Board was referred to the Inspector and the General Purposes Committee.

A cheque for the Surveyor’s expenses was ordered.

THE CHAIRMAN AND THE BOARD

This being the last monthly meeting of the old Board the Chairman briefly thanked the members for the courtesy and kindness shown to him during his period of office and chairman. And more especially for the fact that they had re-elected him while he was lying on a bed of sickness, and he was very thankful to say that he believed they would all meet again round that table.

BROSELEY.

AMATEUR DRAMATIC CLASS.—This is the title of a class now commencing in this town and the first performance, “Bombastes Furioso,” will be given in Easter week, forming the concluding part of a grand concert to complete the season. Mr W. Close will fill the position of secretary and Mr Geo. Davis, juur., that of hon. treasurer. With these two names we have a guarantee of success, and we heartily wish the class a prosperous career.

BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS. —TUESDAY.

Before T. H. ThursfieId (Mayor), E. Roden, G. Maw, and A. Maw, Esqrs.

OVERSEERS.- The following persons were appointed overseers for the several parishes for the ensuing year:— Barrow: Messrs. William Mear and William Cluton. — Benthall: Messrs. Gorge Maw and William Allen. — Broseley: Messrs. Thomas Howells and William Jones.—Ditton Priors: Messrs Edward Thomas and Thomas Lewis. —Linley: Charles Broom and Jabez Rushton.

OFFENCES UNDER THE FACTORY ACTS.—Messrs T. Hopley and H. Duncan, brick and tile manufactures of Jackfield, were charged by Mr J. Jones, Inspector of Factories for the Wolverhampton District, with employing Elizabeth Webberley, under 16 years of age, contrary to the 38th section of the Factory and Workshop Act, 1881.—Mr Duncan appeared, and said that they were not aware that they were breaking the law, his desire had always been to honour and obey the laws of his country, and he was now arranged before a court of justice without a single caution having been given to them on the matter. He produced the abstract issued under the authority of one of the principal Secretaries of State, which provided under section 38 that no child or young person could be employed in the manufacture of bricks or tiles, but there was a reference (a) there, and if the Bench would refer below they would find that young persons and women could be employed for six days each week during the hours affixed in the factory. The Bench, on examining the abstract, thought Mr Duncan was right, and Mr Duncan said that when the Inspector called he could not point out any portion of the Act under which they were wrong. A long conversation took place, the Bench and the Inspector being evidently unable to understand one another’s arguments. Ultimately it was decided to hear Mr Jones’s case, He stated that on the 1st of March he visited the brick and tile works of Messrs. Hopley and Duncan at Jackfield, and found Elizabeth Webberley at work there. He produced a certificate proving that she would only be 16 years of age in December next Mr Hopley was in the works and witness asked him how long she had been at work. He said six weeks on an average of two days a week. Witness said “Don’t you know you are breaking the law by employing this girl under 16? ” He said he had only recently taken to the business. Witness told him that the clerk or manager, who had been there for a long time, knew all about it. He said, “Will you show him the clause in the Act referring to it.” Witness said “I don’t think I can lay my finger upon it at the moment,” but immediately found it and marked it in pencil for

him.—Mr Duncan said the Inspector could not find it.—Mr Jones proceeded that he at once found the clause and marked it in ink or pencil on the board produced. The clause had been in existence many years, and he did not know how they could plead ignorance of it.— In answer to the Bench, the Inspector said the first clause (section 38) was the one which applied to the case the second clause mentioned (sec. 10) had no reference to it at all. Section 10 was a general clause; section 38 was a special restriction. No girl could be employed for any time at all under the Act.—The Mayor read the abstract from section 38 and that of section 10 and said they could not see from the latter why the girl could not be employed. —The Inspector said the abstract had been drawn up by Mr Lucock who was an authority on the matter, and section 10 had no relation at all to section 38, or to brickworks. He could not argue the point as he did not understand the Bench, but he had had several convictions of the same kind.—Mr Roden: I think you hardly understand it.—The Mayor said if Mr Jones was right in the law, as he had no doubt be was, the abstract was calculated to mislead any one, in which Mr A Maw concurred.— The Inspector produced the Act and pointed out the section (38) under which the prosecution was brought.—The Mayor remarked that it might be in the Act but it was not on the abstract, the reference (a) showed that girls could be employed.—The Bench and the Inspector evidently did not understand each other up to this point, when Mr Jones, getting the drift of the argument of the Bench, pointed out that reference (a) in section 38 had nothing at all to do with the reference (a) wider section 10, both referring to schedules of the Act under the respective sections, and on pointing this out to the Magistrate’s clerk he at once told the Bench that he understood the Inspector, and reading section 38 and referring to the schedule (a) the matter was perfectly clear, the (a) on the abstract being under a different heading altogether.— The Mayor said this way of reference was very much calculated to mislead, and any ordinary person would probably read it in the way in which Mr Duncan had done.—The Clerk remarked that if the schedules had been marked by numbers instead of figures such a mistake would not have occurred.— Mr Duncan thought Mr Jones ought to give them a warning.—The Inspector said there were two other cases, that of Mary Ann Potts, 14 years of age, and Eliza Poole, who would be 13 next month, and was technically a child. He also stated that he was compelled to bring these cases, not as had been suggested by Mr Duncan out of malice, but because in Jackfield he found the manufacturers more careless than in nay part of his district, which extended over a hundred miles and comprised over 25,000 establishments, so that the Bench would see that if he had to stop to explain the law at every place he would never do

?????

, but the duty of the persons employing labour to make themselves acquaint with the provisions of the Acts. He had to summon the predecessor of the firm before the Magistrates. The children had been employed for six weeks on and average of two days a week, and they were not registered, which was another offence under the Act on which he had no proceeded.- Mr Duncan during the course of the hearing made several remarks which were not complementary to the Inspector, and added that it was no source of profit their had considered in employing the labour of girls, the only object they had in doing do being to alleviate the prevailing distress which surrounded them, caused by the sever inclement weather they had experienced from Christmas up to the present time.- The inspector said he had a duty to do and he hoped the Bench did not imagine he had any feeling against the gentlemen who appeared, and whom he had never seen before.- The Bench at once unanimously said they had not the slightest idea of the kind.- The facts as regarding the named girls were admitted.- The Mayor in giving judgment said they believed that Mr Duncan had been misled, and in consideration of that they would mitigate the fine of £3 in each case of £1 7s. Mr Duncan said the amount of the fine was a question of nothing, what he though more of was indignity of a conviction before the bench of magistrates. Mr A Maw said the defendants might have been convicted for not registering the girls.- During the hearing Mr Duncan protested that the firm were manufacturers of ornamental tiles, which were not defined in the Act, and the Inspector now stated for the information of the defendants and others that ornamental tiles were defined to be encaustic tiles.

16^th April 1881

IRONBRIDGE

POLICE COURT, Saturday.—Before G Maw. Esq, Edward Dowty was charged by P.C. Beckett with stealing, in company with others, coal from a pit belonging to the Messrs. Exley, at Broseley, on February 18. The prisoner and two others were summoned for the offence at the time, but as they did not appear warrants were granted for their apprehension. Prisoner was remanded to the petty sessions on Tuesday next.

23^rd April 1881

BROSELEY.

LOCAL BOARD MEETING.

A meeting of the above Board was held in the Town Hall on Wednesday evening. There were present Dr. Thursfield, Messrs. G. Maw, H. P. Dunnill, H. M. Bathurst, J. C. W. Lister, R. Rushton, and Peter Jones ; Mr Owen Harries, clerk; Mr G. Ledger, surveyor; Mr G. Stevenson, inspector of nuisances. This being the first meeting since the election, the Clerk, as returning officer, took the chair, and certified to the re-election of Messrs. Burton, Bathurst and Thursfield, the two latter signing the usual declaration.

The Clerk having read the minutes, Mr Lister remarked that the charge made for an analysis of three samples of milk was more than allowed by the law, and it was explained that a fresh bill had been sent of 10s. 6d. for each sample, another moiety being paid by the borough authorities.

ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN.

Mr. R. Rushton proposed that Dr. Thursfield should be re-elected chairman, which was seconded by Mr Maw, who said they ought to be much obliged to Mr Thursfield for the manner in which he had fulfilled the duties of the position, and they could not do better than let well alone.

The motion was unanimously carried.

Dr. Thursfield, on taking the chair, said he was much obliged to the members of the Board. He felt it to be a mark of great confidence and great kindness. He found sometimes that it interfered with his profession, but until some of the great questions that were before the Board were settled, for ever he hoped to give them his services.

THE COST OF THE ELECTION.

The Clerk produced the bill for the expenses of the election, amounting to £19 8s 8d, being slightly less than that of last year.

Some conversation took place as to the number of papers uncollected, which was satisfactorily explained, and it was also decided to instruct the collectors in future not to fill up the voting papers if asked.

THE PROPOSED CEMETERY.

As the ground suggested near Oakley’s catchgate had not been tested by the Surveyor in consequence of its having been planted, he was directed to offer the tenants reasonable compensation for disturbing the ground, and if it was accepted, to test the ground before the next meeting.

THE EXPENDITURE ON THE WATER SCHEME.

As desired at the last meeting, on the suggestion of Mr. Lister, the Clerk said the total amount expended on the water scheme, gauging, surveys, &c., was about £55, but there was a contract to pay Mr. Massey, the engineer now engaged, £200 for the plans, specifications, and the overseeing of the work, of which he calculated about £100 was due.

Mr. Maw said he had had the correspondence with Mr. Massey, and wished him to make separate charges for the plans and specifications and for the superintendence of the work. He declined to do this, but said he would make a reasonable deduction in case the scheme fell through.

THE NEW RATE.

At the last meeting Mr. Lister had proposed and it was carried nem. con. that the rate about to be laid should be divided into two parts, a 10d and a 5d. one. The Surveyor now made an application for an increase of salary, as this arrangement would double the work of making and collecting the rate.

A long conversation ensued, Mr. Dunnill, Mr. R. Rushton, Mr. Maw, and the Chairman being of opinion that there would be more trouble in collecting two small rates than one large one. Mr. Lister was desired to withdraw his resolution. He said he would rather do so than have the collector’s salary raised. After a long discussion, in which it was shown that the feeling of the Board was in favour of raising the salary if the extra work were imposed, Mr. Lister agreed to withdraw his motion with the conditions that it should be stated on the minutes that his reason was that it would involve increased expense. The Clerk was directed to post the usual notices for a 1s. 3d. rate.

ATTENDANCES OF MEMBERS.

The Clerk read the list of attendances made by the members during the past year: —Dr. Thursfield (chairman) 14; Mr. Rushton, 15;. Mr. Dunnill, 15; Mr. Jones, 15; Mr. Lister, 13; Mr. Bathurst, 10; Mr. Maw, 9; Mr. Burton, 8; Mr. W. Burnet, 6.

There was no other business, of public interest.

BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.

Before T. H. Thursfield (Mayor), A. Maw, Esqrs., and Captain Wayne.

Coal Stealing.—A girl named Eliza Jane Cook was charged by P.C. Derbyshire with stealing 43lbs. of coal from a pit bank, the property of W O Foster, Esq , valued at 2d, on April 6. The case was fully proved by the officer, who saw the girl with the coal on the bank. The defendant said she picked it from the mount.—Mr C W Pearce asked the Bench to be as lenient as they could in the case, as the girl had acknowledged to stealing the coal and begged for forgiveness. They wished to put a stop to the loss occasioned by thefts of coal, but he hoped they would not plea any excessive sentence.— It appeared that the child has no mother, and lives with her aunt.—In consideration of Mr Pearce’s recommendation, the Bench inflicted a fine of 1s and 8s 10d costs only.— The Mayor remarked that there was a good deal of coal stealing going on, and they must put a stop to it, and it was only in consideration of Mr Pearce’s recommendation that so small a fine was inflicted.

BROSELEY WATER SUPPLY.
INQUIRY AS TO THE WATER WORKS.

On Thursday last week an inquiry was held in the Town Hall, Broseley, in respect of an application made by the Local Board for a loan of £6,000 for thirty years for the purpose of making a water supply for the town. The inquiry was conducted by C. J. Smith, Esq., C E, one of the Inspectors of the Local Government Board. The scheme of the Board, it will be remembered, was to take the water from the Mine Spout and areas adjacent. The scheme, has, however, met with some opposition, and Mr. Jesse Herbert, of Birmingham (a member of the Oxford Circuit) instructed by Mr. Leake, of Shifnal, appeared for the opponents of the Mine Spout scheme. Among the large number of ratepayers present we noticed—Mr. T. H. Thursfield (Mayor of Wenlock), Mr. G. Thursfield (chairman of the Board), Dr. W. N. Thursfield (medical officer of health), Messrs. G. Maw, H. P. Dunnill, J. C. W. Lister, W. Burnet, H. M. Bathurst, R. Rushton, P. Jones (members of the Board) ; Rev. G. F. Lamb (chairman of the ratepayers committee), Messrs. J. Wilde, F. Davies, W. Jones, T. Hopley, R. Instone, S. Instone, J. Wiggins, J. Shaw, S. Davies, S. Hill, W. Hill, J. Meredith, T. Shaw, A. Maw, J. Dixon, J. Garbett, J. Instone, J. Doughty, Owen Harries (Dawley, clerk to the Board), James Leake (Shifnal), Whitfield (Shifnal, architect), &c., &c.

Mr, Herbert contended that the scheme had not been properly advertised. He also intended to show that the present scheme was insufficient, inadequate, and very expensive. A telegram was also read from the engineer of the scheme, stating that he was unable to attend in consequence of an important engagement. The Inspector expressed great disapprobation at such a proceeding on the part of any engineer connected with a scheme borrow money from the Local Government Board. They could not imagine the Local Government Board would sanction the lending of money without knowing anything about the scheme; and he wondered what engagement could be more important than meeting for such a purpose. The Commissioner then examined Mr George Maw, who said: I am a member of the Load Board. I was deputed to instruct Mr Massey, and I am thoroughly acquainted with the district. The scheme has been prepared under the inspection of the Local Board, and the site is on land belonging to Lord Forester. There are two springs we are going to acquire and two adjacent areas. The main spring is as the mine spout; it is below the town and has to be lifted, and is 202 feet below the proposed service reservoir. The impounding reservoir is below. The actual spring was gauged during twenty-eight weeks consequently in 1878, including from March 27^th to September 22nd inclusive. The yield of that period was 87,937 gallons in 24 hours. The second spring is called Foot-road spring. It is all collected into the impounding reservoir. That is also in the pariah of Benthall. Roughly speaking it is about 70 feet above the impounding reservoir. The latter named was only gauged on three occasions, and the yield was about 8,000 gallons. Another 5,000 gallons. The average was 4,820. In August, 1879, it was gauged 14,000 gallons.

The Inspector: It is affected by the rainfall.

Mr Maw: Yes, but at a time when the mine spout was going above the average. Those are the only two springs, and represent 350 acres. The available rainfall I cannot state.

The Inspector: The rainfall is put down for 25 to 30 inches.

Mr Maw: There is no large proportion of arable land.

The Inspector: And, therefore, a large proportion will drain off.

Mr Maw: Supposing you can impound half the rainfall, it would be considerably more than is required.

The Inspector: It is no use you having a bottle unless you have got something to put in it (Loud applause.)

The Inspector then said: I cannot allow for if you show your approbation in one you will wish to show your disapprobation in the other way.

Mr Maw (continuing): The whole of one part of the plan is pasture, and two-thirds is also pasture.

The Inspector: The sub-water shed divides the two areas.

Mr Maw: Yes. Allow me to read form the report?

The Inspector: Is it your report?

Mr Maw: Oh, no.

The Inspector: You are going to father it?

Mr Maw: Oh, yes.

The Inspector: You have taken the actual rainfall. What is it ?

Mr Maw: About 40 inches. It is slightly above the average rainfall in other parts of the kingdom. The actual average rainfall represents 40 during the six summer months.

The Inspector: The population of Broseley?

Mr Herbert: 4,458.

Mr. G. Maw: I dispute these figures? I will read the report: Broseley, 3,469, and Jackfield, 1,270. Together, 4,789. There is a falling off of 281. We have ten gallons per head from springs alone per day. The question of the supply of Jackfield is not settled, but we may not have to draw from other springs. If Jackfield is excluded from this source of supply and supplied by Holy-well, below Catchgate, of 560 gallons in 24 hours, the spring in Oakley’s garden 5,760, and from the overflow of the Down Well, 2,956 gallons, we have a total of 14,760 gallons. The rights to extract the water are with the Local Government Board. It will be by gravitation. The height will be 150 feet above Jackfield. Of course this is only the result of one gauging, which may probably be in excess of the average, because it was a time of rain. The Benthall two sources of supply into Jackfield would ho 13 gallons per day per head.

The Clerk to the Local Board said: We propose to acquire this right from Lord Forester. His lordship’s solicitors have, however, put in a clause that Lord Forester’s tenants should have a supply for all or any purpose that might arise. The Chairman was deputed to confer with Lord Forester’s and they refuse to give way. This is not in accordance with the preliminary agreement.

The Inspector here said they were stopped at the threshold, and the Local Board would first of all have to get an agreement for the acquisition of the water, and then he would go into the merits or demerits of the matter.

Mr. Thursfield (agent to Lord Forester), who was present, said on the part of his lordship he would undertake, if it were the wish of the ratepayers, not to stand in the way.

The Inspector then adjourned the enquiry for half-an-hour in order to see whether some agreement would be made between the Board and Lord Forester’s solicitors. After the absence of about three-quarters of an hour the hall was again filled, and the Inspector again presided.

Mr. G. Maw said that the solicitors to Lord Forester refused to alter the clause at which objection was raised.

The Inspector then said that the Local Board could not, therefore, go on with their scheme.

Mr. Herbert brought forward a petition signed by nearly 600 ratepayers, which he presented to the Inspector.

The Clerk to the Local Board said there was a common opinion in Broseley that should they succeed in opposing and throwing out the Local Board scheme no other scheme would be considered.

The Inspector said he would thoroughly disabuse their mind of that fallacy, for a proper supply of water would have to be obtained.

The alternative scheme of a supply from springs at the Hay Cop, at an estimate cost of £2,000 only, was brought forward by Mr Whitfield, surveyor, &c., of Shifnal.

The Inspector suggested the ratepayers committee should meet the Board and devise the best scheme, as the Board may have overlooked some point.

The Chairman of the Board said the Board only wished to get a good supply at a reasonable cost, and if anyone could show a better scheme than their own they would adopt it.

The enquiry was then adjourned for a month.

Benthall Hall

Near Broseley

Mr G Maw presents his compliments to the Editor of “The Borough of Wenlock Express,” and requests the favour of the publication of the enclosed correspondence with the Chairman of the Broseley ratepayers Committee on the proposed new waterworks:-

Benthall Hall,

    Near Broseley.

April 25,188l,

DEAR MR LAMB—As I feel it of importance that the merits of every scheme for the supply of water to Broseley should be fully considered and investigated, and as that named at the meeting on Thursday last seems likely to fall through from the disinclination of the committee representing a section of the ratepayers to incur further expense, I write to say that I shall be happy at my personal cost to have such further observations made, in the ascertaining of levels and in the gauging of the springs, that may be necessary to enable the promoters of the scheme and the Broseley Local Board to ascertain its merits and practicability. I shall then be most happy to bring the matter before the Local Board who will, I am sure, give it the same impartial consideration they have given to every other scheme that has been brought before them. The sources of supply spoken of on Thursday have not been passed over by the Board; gaugings were taken some time ago and the conclusion the subcommittee arrived at was that, whilst they were insufficient for the Broseley districts, they could be used by gravitation for the supply of Jackfield at a moderate outlay. There were also what appeared to the sub-committee a fatal objection to supplying Broseley from this source, viz , that there is no available site in Broseley for the service reservoir that would command half the houses in the town, and it ought to be so placed as, in case of fire, to command the tops of the highest houses. I need scarcely draw your attention to the fact that Broseley is on all sides surrounded by ground lower than a greater part of the town and this makes it a place especially difficult to supply with water. In the parish of Benthall is the only high ground within a practicable distance commanding Broseley, and the committee therefore came the conclusion that Benthall (wherever the water comes from) must of necessity be the site of the service reservoirs. At the Mine Spout in Benthall, there is more than double the quantity of spring water than at the Hay Cop and neighbouring springs, in addition to the produce of a surface gathering area of 350 acres, all of which the Board purposes to concentrate at the pumping station below the Mine Spout. The question therefore presented itself to the water-supply committee thus:

lst.—That the Hay Cop sources bring insufficient for the whole district, but sufficient for Jackfield, by the inexpensive method of gravitation, they had better be reserved for Jackfield.

2nd.—That as the service reservoir for Broseley must be placed in Benthall, it was out of the question to pump up for double the distance from the Hay Cop springs, when at the “Mine Spout” there was more than double the quantity of water close at hand.

The statement made at the meeting that the pumping attitude from the Hay Cop and adjacent springs would only be about 70 feet, was evidently an error. You must, of course, pump from the lowest point of the intended sources of supply, and I believe that one of these (the spring by the road side below the toll-gate) is fully 210 feet below the highest point in Broseley, so that the pumping height will be actually greater than that in Benthall, and I do not see in what other respect the Hay Cop scheme can be more economical than that adopted by the Board. The service pipes and hydrants in Broseley would both the same for either scheme, and these we estimate will cost more than the total estimated cost of the Hay Chop scheme. If it can be shown that the Hay Cop scheme impracticable and more economical than that approved of by the Board I, for one, shall, as ratepayer and member of the Board, give it my hearty support; but there are so many points to be thought of which present themselves after years of careful consideration which do not readily occur offhand to the promoters of is new scheme. I think the new committee ought to bear in mind that the Local Board is not altogether independent in its action in the matter. On the one hand the Board has been elected by the ratepayers with a distinct pledge to carry out a scheme of water-supply, and on this other hand neither the Board or the ratepayers are independent of the Local Government Board who time after time have pressed the Board to carry out an efficient scheme of water-supply. Personally, I have no interest whatever in the matter except as a ratepayer, and the only consequence to me will be an increase of my rates without a corresponding quid pre quo. Broseley is, however, not heavily rated and on some sections of property e.g., agricultural land, the Broseley Local Board rate falls wit a lighter band than the rate it replaced. As I write to you, as the chairman of the committee of the ratepayers, who have petitioned the Local Government against the water-supply scheme of the Broseley Local Board, I propose publishing my letter in the next number of the Borough of Wenlock Express.

Believe me very sincerely, yours,

                               GEORGE MAW.

The Rev. G. F. Lamb,

Broseley Rectory.

Bournhem House,

Stroud, Gloucestershire,

April 26th. 1681.

Dear Mr Maw,—I beg to acknowledge the receipt, of your letter, which I have forwarded to Broseley for the consideration of the committee (of the ratepayers who petitioned against the proposed water supply scheme of the Broseley Local Board). As Chairman of that committee I shall be happy upon my return to Broseley next week, to confer personally with you is this important matter, with the view, I hope, of some water supply scheme being devised that shall fulfil the conditions of the Local Government Board, and at the same time meet the existing requirements of the parishioners of Broseley at a considerably lower cost than the scheme proposed by the Broseley Local Board. I certainly think it most desirable that the five springs of water in Broseley — to which reference was made at the public meeting in the Town Hall last Thursday - should  be accurately gauged and as soon as possible; but surely the expenses therein incurred might fairly be defrayed by the Broseley Local Board in their endeavour to promote the alternative water supply scheme, and thereby the wishes of a large section of the Broseley ratepayers, even on the supposition of this latter scheme being found impracticable rather than by any voluntary means, such as is your kind and liberal offer.—Believe me, yours very truly,

GEO. FLEMING LAMB,

George Maw, Esq.

P.S. You are at liberty to make what use you please of this, my reply.          

April 28, 1881.

DEAR MR LAMB—I have to thank you for your letter of the 26th inst. As 1 mentioned in my former letter the question of supplying Broseley with water from the sources named by your committee was brought before the Board some time back and the Board had gaugings made of all but one of the springs in question and came to the conclusion that the sources were insufficient it for the supply of the town of Broseley, though sufficient for Jackfield. The recent action of the Ratepayers’ Association has taken the Local Board by surprise. I believe several of the petitioners are members of the Board, and it was competent for them or any one of the ratepayers to bring the matter before the Local Board; but as the course pursued has been altogether independent of the Board and avowedly in opposition to it, I scarcely feel with you that the Local Board could be fairly called upon to defray the expenses incidental to the repetition the investigations they had earned out on behalf of their constituents—the ratepayers some time back. The Local Board is at present unacquainted with the existence of any scheme of water supply that has not been already considered by them, and, as the petitioners, though represented by counsel, seemed unable to give even an outline of the features of their scheme, it seems to me that in that the Local Board are not in a position to take it into consideration till the nature of the new scheme is explained to them.

Believe me,      

Very truly yours,

GEORGE MAW.

The Rev. G. F. Lamb.

THE NEW WATER SUPPLY SCHEME FOR

BROSELEY

TO THE EDITOR OF THE WENLOCK AND LUDLOW EXPRESS

Sir, As the promoters of the new scheme of eater supply for Broseley, who were represented by an imposing array of professional gentlemen at the official enquiry last Thursday, were unable or unwilling to give much information respecting the features of their scheme, I send you for publication the results of levellings and gaugings of the Hay Cop sources of supply, to enable the ratepayers of Broseley to compare the new scheme with that adopted by the Local Board. The new scheme supposes that four of five springs in the neighbourhood of the Hay Cop, viz. the Down Well, the Coneyburry Well, Two Wells in Oakley’s Garden, and the Holywell, by the road side below the Turnpike Gate, will be brought together for the supply of Broseley. It was stated at the official enquiry that the pumping altitude from these sources would be about 70 feet.

From levellings made by Mr Doody, I find the actual altitude of the ground near Mrs Potts’s house which is nearly the highest point in the town above the several proposed sources of supply, is as follows:-

                                           Feet

Above the Holywell        ..          192.91

  “ the Coneybury Well  ..          179.56

  “ Oakley’s Wells          ..          171.76

 “  the Down Well          ..            97.16

The water from these sources would of course have to be brought to the lowest point, and, allowing something below for the depth of the impounding reservoir, and another 50 feet fall for the filter-beds, fall pipes and height of houses, the pumping altitude could not possibly be less than 260 or 270 feet, which is somewhat grater than that required by the Mine Spout scheme.

I have, today, had the whole sources of supply gauged with the following results:-

The Hay Cop Sources of Supply

Holywell                                   1530 gals in 24 hours

Two wells in Oakley’s garden    6480        “

Conebury well                          2880        “

The Down well                          1851        “

Total                                         12741

The Benthall Sources of Supply

The Mine Spout, excluding

  Surface water                          26200 gals in 24 hours

The Foot Road           ..                  883

                                                27083

In addition to the surface gathering of 350 acres

All these results are of course, after the recent dry weather, considerably under the average, but as they were taken on the same day they are proportionate, and they are also roughly proportionate to the former guagings, except that the smaller sources of supply indicate a greater proportionate falling off in dry weather than the “Mine Spout ” source.

The gaugings made to day in Oakley’s garden must not be compared with the former gauging given in the Water Supply Committee’s report as it has been ascertained that the two adjacent wells are supplied from separate sources only, one of which was gauged a the former occasion.  I believe that the Broseley Local Board adopted the Benthall scheme, not exactly as a matter choice but as the only sufficient supply available excepting only that at Wyke and their reservoir has been so planed that it can be further fed by the Wyke supply in ease of necessity. I believe that the ratepayers of Broseley after carefully reviewing the figures will come to the conclusion that their Local Board who are under the orders of the Local Government Board to provide a water supply could only have followed the course they have pursued in maturing the plan which has now had several years of careful consideration. The professional advisors of the Broseley Ratepayers Committee no doubt acted with discretion in saying so little about their own scheme or that of the Local Board. Their passive position in appearing to know so little about either scheme reminded me of the candidate for Orders who when asked who King Solomon was said he did not know. And when ex-postulated with for his unaccountable ignorance explained that he was afraid the examiners were going to lead him through the genealogy of the Kings of Judah and Israel.

                        I remain sir,

                                    Yours faithfully

                                    GEORGE MAW

BROSELEY

PROPERTY SALE.-    On Thursday week a sale of freehold property took place at the Lion Hotel Broseley, by Mr Rushton. Several of the lots were disposed of under the hammer, the purchasers being Mr Roden, Mr W Hill and Mr N Hill. The solicitors were Messrs. Potts and Potts. It will be seen from the advertisement that Mr Rushton is about to start a Smithfield auction at Madeley.

7^th May 1881

BROSELEY.

THE LATE LORD BEACONSFELD, K.G.- The Conservatives of this town are respectfully requested to attend a meeting to be held on Tuesday evening next at half-past seven o’clock in the rooms of the Ironbridge and Coalbrookdale Working tens’ Conservative Association, Assembly Rooms, to pass a resolution of sympathy to the family of the departed and devoted chief of the Conservative           the Earl of Beaconsfield, K.G.

BOARD MEETINGS—THE WATER QUESTION.

A meeting of the Local Board was held in the Town Hell on Wednesday evening last, when there were present—Dr. T G Thursfield (chairman). Messrs J C W Lister, G Maw. H P Dunnill, R. Burton, H M Bathurst, P Jones, and R Rushton. Mr W. Burnet; Mr Owen Harries, clerk ; Mr Ledger, surveyor; Mr O Stevenson, inspector of nuisances.

The minutes of the last meeting having been reed and confirmed,

The Chairman reported that with regard to the

THE PROPOSED CEMETERY.

proposed trial holes near Oakley’s catchgate, the tenant’s had refused to allow the Surveyor to go on to the ground for the purpose.

THE WATER QUESTION.

The Chairman reported that he had written to the committee of the ratepayers who opposed the water scheme telling them that the Board would be happy to see them. Daring the interval Mr Maw had had more gaugings of the Board’s proposed source of supply taken, and the result was comprised in the following :-

ABSTRACTION AND ADDITION OF WATER BY SCHEME OF LOCAL BOARD.

The surface supply from at least half the gathering ground of 350 acres will be diverted from Benthall Edge to Mine Spout Valley will add to the supply, 175 acres at 15 inches per annum will add to Mine Spout Valley 162,690 gallons a day. 25 gallons per head of population of Broseley (3.088) will take but 77,200 gallons, leaving 85,490 gallons per day in excess of present supply; 25 gallons per head of the population of Broseley and Jackfield (4.458) will take 111,450 gallons a day, leaving from additional gathering ground 51,240 gallons per day in excess of present supply. If we can impound from a rainfall of 33½ inches per annum on an area, 50 acres per head per day would be provided fro 13,011 people (exclusive the old springs.)

SOURCES OF SUPPLY FROM GATHERING GROUND

The Local Board propose concentrating at their pumping-station the surface flow from 350 acres (see map prepared by Mr Massey). The average rainfall for the years 1878, 1879, and 1880 in Benthall was a trifle over 33½ inches per annum. Taking as a basis Mr Hawksley’s estimate given in vol. 31 in the minutes Institute of Civil Engineers, in which he estimates the mean loss by absorption and evaporation as 14 inches from average rainfall and increasing this to 16 inches on account of the rainfall in Benthall being somewhat over the average and deducting another 2½ inches for loss and overflow during excessive rainfall, we may estimate on saving 15 inches out of our rainfall of 33½ inches. Each inch of rainfall will produce 22.622 gallons per acre per annum, or a total of 118,765,500 gallons per annum from 15 inches of rain on 350 acres, or 325,380 gallons per day, equivalent to 105½ gallons per head per day for the population of Broseley (3,088), or a trifle under 73 gallons per head per day to the entire district of Broseley and Jackfield with a population of 4,458. If we can impound 15 inches of rainfall from our 350 acres, we could supply 25 gallons per head to a population of 13,011, without including the Mine Spout and Foot Road Springs.

SOURCES OF SUPPLY FROM SPRINGS

The Mine Spout, Benthall, adjacent to, and immediately above the impounding reservoir of a million gallons. Fortnightly gaugings from March 27th to September 22nd, 1877, indicated an average daily supply of 37,937 gallons and the average rainfall during the 28 weeks was 37.64 inches per annum. As the averaged rainfall for the years 1878, 1879, and 1880 has been ascertained to be 33.51 inches the above estimated supply, supposing it to be proportionate to the rainfall, must be reduced to 33,772 gallons.—The Foot Road Spring, Benthall, 270 yards from, and about 70 feet above the impounding reservoir has not been regularly gauged, but from four separate gaugings at considerable intervals the average flow was ascertained to be 6,900 gallons per day. As the spring is very variable and dependent on the rainfall, the above result may be a little excess of the average, which however cannot be less than 4,000 gallons a day. The two springs may therefore be depended upon for a supply of 37,772 gallons a day, or nearly 12½ gallons per gallons per head per day to Broseley with a population of 3,088, or 8½ gallons per head per day to the entire district of Broseley and Jackfield with a population of 4,458.

With regard to the quality of the water, Mr Maw produced a table of the comparative purity of the water used by six of the London Companies (The Thames Water) Grand Junction Company, the West Middlesex Company, the Southwark and Vauxhall, Lambeth Company, New River Company, and East Loudon Company), as follows (parts in one million:-

Average of the above    T            L         I       O      D

6 London Companies   311.9   67.3     7.6  40.0 31.95

Mine Spout Water        284.2  78.88  50.7    6.1 12.0

Mine spout after boiling                                       9.5

T= Total solid, L= Lime, I Iron & aluminium, O= Organic matter, D=Degrees of hardness

The Chairmen remarked that this showed the Mine Spout water was much superior in quality to the London supplies, the only solid content in which it exceeded being lime.

The Committee of the ratepayers were now introduced and consisted of Mr Wiggins, Mr R Instone, Mr S Instone, Mr Hiram Lloyd, Mr J Wilde, Mr J R Humphries, Mr S Hill, Mr T Rushton, E B Potts, Esq., solicitor to Lord Forester, satiated on behalf of his lordship.

The Chairman addressing the committee said they had heard the scheme of the Board described by Mr Maw at the recent enquiry and the Board would be glad to hear what were their objections to the plan.

Mr Wiggins: The Board’s scheme has collapsed, and it is for the Board to make another.

The Chairman: It has not collapsed, and may be still placed before the Inspector.

Mr Wiggins: Our opinion is that it is not the best scheme.   

The Chairman: We want to hear your objections.

Mr Wiggins read a resolution passed at the public meeting of the ratepayers, and the Chairman remarked that they objected to the expense, uncertainty of the supply, and the quality of the water. The question of expense was a certainty, as to the uncertainty of the supply and the quality of the water he read Mr Maw’s report. Mr Wiggins said they did not want the water from there.

The Chairman read the analysis, and Mr R Instone said he had seen a growing stick taken out of the tank at the Mine Spout corroded with iron. After asking several questions the Chairman said the iron value would corrode the wood, but the committee could not believe the stick had been in long enough, as it was budding.

The Chairman then read the analysis of Mr Volleker as follows:

Grains per Gallon.

Mint Spout.—Oxidisable organic matter, •42; oxide of iron and alumina. •35, sulphate of lime, 13.02; carbonate of lime, •14; nitrate of magnesia, •07; carbonate of magnesia, 2.54; chloride of sodium, 2.29; soluble silica. •77.

Total solid constituents found at 130^ºC, 19.6 grains.

Actual (saline) ammonia, •005; organic (albumenoid) ammonia, •004; hardness according, to Clarke’s scale: before boiling, 11 degrees; after boiling, 9½ degrees. Found by direct determinations: Oxidisable organic matter, •42; oxide of iron and alumina, •35; lime, 5.44; sulphuric said, 7.66; nitric acid, •05; chlorine, 1•39: soluble silica, •77 ; (alkalies and carbonic said) not determined.

Mr Burnett said Mr Volleker was not to be depended upon, and gave an instance within his own knowledge. He (Mr Burnett) said there was a deposit, as could easily be seen, and asked Mr Hill, who said he had known the Mine Spout for sixty years. The water used to run down a rail, and it was corroded, since then they had loosed a lot of Mine water into it.

In reply to the Chairman, Mr Hill said the Croxton (Crawstone??) had been worked up be the old workhouse, 40 Years ago, but he did not think the water from this had been turned in for the last ten years.

Mr Burton remarked that this analysis had been taken since Mr Hill said in the old days it was often very nearly dry,

Some general conversation ensued, several speaking at the same time when Mr Hill said in the old days people had got their facilities about the water as well as they had now, and his mother would go elsewhere for water if she had to stop six hours for it (!).

Some further conversation ensued, and Severn water was mentioned, but the Chairman said that was condemned by the medical officer.

Mr Humphries and Mr T Rushton approved of the Severn Water.

The Chairman read an extract from a report of the medical officer, in which, after careful investigation he could only attribute ten cases of typhoid fever to the use of Severn water.

Several of the committee thought the addition of “surface water” put a different complexion on the report, and Mr Humphries said if the water was taken to Jackfield the people would not use it.

In the course of further conversation, Mr Dunnill remarked that it would be a good job if they could get rid of the water scheme altogether.

After being pressed by the Chairman as to the committee’s scheme, Mr Wiggins said the Hay Cop source should be tested but on the surface, but to see what water there was on the fault.

Mr Burnet asked the clerk to read several extracts from the minutes as to the original estimates, and thought the Board had been misled by Mr Maw and Mr Massey.

Mr Maw said the estimate Mr Burnet referred to was made on a different basis.

Mr Burnet said the gentlemen of the committee had attended with a view to suggesting where a good supply could be obtained. The gauging taken of the Hay Cop source were taken in a very imperfect manner, and they proposed that the shaft should be sunk to test the extent of the supply. The committee were informed there was a good quality of water and they would not want for quantity.

The Chairman asked what depth they proposed to go, and it was stated that the water was 4 feet below the sandstone.

Mr Burnet said Mr Instone’s field was also full of water which came from the grey sandstone and Mr Hill said in the last two pits they had sunk there the water came up almost to the brim.  Mineral water had, however, been turned in below.

Mr Burnett added the wish that the source should be tested with the same care as had been expended on the Mine Spout.

The Chairman wished to know where the committee proposed to collect the water, and he could get no reply. It would take money to pump the water to a sufficient height to a service reservoir then in the Mine Spout.

Some conversation ensued, and the Chairman remarked that they were there not for the purpose of discussion; but to do the best for the town. They must in this case pump the water up to a height and it would cost more to send it up to Benthall high ground.-

Several of the Committee: No, no.

Mr Maw asked where then were they going to pump it to.

Mr Burnet referred to Bridgnorth, where he thought there were no reservoirs. It was however found that the supply from the Severn was pumped to the top of High Rock and subsequently it was stated that the potable supply in the same town was drawn only from street hydrants and that the people were forbidden using it for any but potable purposes.

Mr Burnet said that was all the supply they wanted.

Mr Maw said if they could get a pumping scheme without filter beds, &c., he should support the scheme heartily.

Mr R Instone said they could not afford the water supply. They wanted the cemetery first.

Mr Maw: The Local Government Board is pressing us on the matter.

Mr Lister: Are we to have the water thrust down our throats whether we want it or not?

Mr Maw: I am afraid so.

Mr Burnet said there was another thing. The Mine spout gaugings was reported as 44,000 gallons per day, before the Inspector it had come down to 37,000 gallons, and now it was come down to 27,000 gallons.

Mr Maw: I have gauged it up to 118,000 gallons.

The chairman said the gaugings was 14,000 gallons at the Hay Cop and 37,000 at the Mine Spout on the same day.

Mr Burnett again referred to the gaugings and said that with such a falling off in a wet time the Mine Spout would fail in a dry season.

Mr Maw said his statements were correct, and Mr Burnet knew it. The gaugings were taken, at different times.

After some further conversation.

Mr Dunnill asked Mr Burnet if he could help them to a scheme.

Some conversation then took place as to whether Mr Burnet had or had not suggested the Hay Cop scheme, and Mr Maw said he remembered that he had done so.

Mr Burnet said he had proposed that Mr Mansergh should be applied to to survey the ground, as he found that at Leintwardine he had supplied a water system at a very small cost, but neither this nor a letter which he had written to the Board, declining to act on the sub-committee on the ground that such and important subject should not be entrusted to a section of the Board had not been entered in the minute book, which he thought was a great neglect on the part of those in charge of the minute.

The Clerk pointed out that Mr Burnet’s letter was referred to in the sub-committee’s report and read it.

The Chairman read the section of the Act referring to the power vested in the Local Government Board to order a good supply of water at a reasonable cost, and said the inspector had told him that he should make a complaint of the inefficiency of the water supply.

Mr R Instone asked if this was necessary from the state of health of Broseley.

The Chairman said he had now two cases of scarlet fever on hand.

Mr Maw pointed out that the complaints made by the medical officer were entirely on his own responsibility.

A member of the committee said scarlet fever was prevalent in Wellington and there was a good supply of water there.

The Chairman said he did not know anything about Wellington, but outbreaks of such disease were very difficult to check. There were eight letters from the Local Government Board on the table urging them to proceed with the water supply.

To bring the matter to and issue, Mr Maw suggested that as the general opinion seemed to be that the water was not required, the Clerk should be entrusted to write to the Local Government Board informing them that a large number of the principal ratepayers were of the opinion that the water was not required, and asking their advice.

Mr Lister thought it would be a good job if the Local Board could be exterminated from Broseley. (Hear, hear, and laughter)

Mr Maw thought that the opinions of such a large body of ratepayers should be listened to with the utmost respect. (Hear, hear) They must not imagine that the Board was opposing them- for if the Local Government Board would relieve them of the matter they should all be very glad.

The chairman suggested that the Local Government Board should be asked to sanction a small supply for potable purposes.

Some further conversation ensued, and Mr Potts said he did not attend as a member of the committee but as advisor to Lord Forester, but the Down Well had been suggested he might say that he knew it very well; part of the water came from General Jenkins’s land, but he knew that neither Lord Forester nor General Jenkins would do anything to interfere with a benefit to the town (hear, hear).

Mr Burnet said the town must be very much obliged to Lord Forester and General Jenkins.

In the course of further conversation the Chairman said the Medical Officer had reported in 1876 that a supply of water was one of the most urgent needs of the district, adding that Jackfield was the worst portion of the district.

Several of the committee complained that the Board’s scheme did not include Jackfield, the worst portion.

Eventually, the Chairman’s suggestion was altered to the effect that the Local Government should be petitioned by the Board that a large number of the ratepayers considered the present supply of water sufficient for the wants of the district and asking the Board to sanction the withdrawal of the Board’s scheme; and failing the total withdrawal of the proposed supply, asking the Board’s sanction to a more limited supply for potable purposes only.

This proposition was agreed to by the Board, and satisfied the committee, it being understood that the committee should see the petition before it was sent, and might if they thought proper send a petition of their own.

The committee having withdrawn, the ordinary routine business if the Board was gone through, but there was nothing of public interest.

7^th May 1881

THE CENSUS—MADELEY UNION.

The returns of the census of the several parishes of the Madeley Union have just been completed and is appended hereto. The totals show that the population has decreased during the decade by 3,052, the total on the 4th of April being 27,313, while in 1871 it was 30,865. It is remarkable that towards this one parish, Dawley contributes no less than 2,054, which is to be accounted for by the stoppage of works and pits in consequence of the stagnation of trade, and the consequent removal of the working class to parts where work is more plentiful, and in a great many cases emigration has been the result; the number of uninhabited houses is 812, not a very gratifying prospect for property owners. In Madeley the decrease is 263, mainly from the same causes as apply to Dawley. Much Wenlock shows decrease of 210 and Little Wenlock a decrease of 228, anent which it is well to note that the railway from Wellington to Craven Arms was being built at the time of the ‘71 census and that consequently there was an influx of persons connected with the railway work. Broseley shows a decrease of 181 and 99 uninhabited houses, due to the depression of the local trades. The agricultural parishes of Stirchley and Willey show the large proportionate decrease of 75 and 32 respectively. The only parishes which have increased in population are—Benthall from 446 to 450, Linley from 76 to 83, and Posenhall from 21 to 27. The number of inhabited houses in the Union is 5,726 (of which 1,956 are in the parish of Madeley), uninhabited, 678, building, 10 (all in the parish of Madeley). These figures show perhaps better than anything else could do the extent of the depression in trade in the district. The following is the tall return, as issued by H. Boycott, Esq., Superintendent Registrar.

14^th May 1881

THE BROSELEY WATER SCHEME.

THERE is one point which seems to be overlooked by friends and opponents to the Broseley water question, viz., that having formed a Local Board they are compelled to adopt a scheme of water supply, as to which is the most suitable we will not say. Our sympathies in such matters are entirely with the ratepayers for the following reason: If a large portion of those ratepayers can prove they have already a good supply of pure water sufficient for all purposes, they will be compelled to bear a portion of the cost of a general scheme for the whole town. This was well expressed by an energetic member of the Board (Mr. Lister) at the meeting last week, viz., “are we are to have the water thrust down our throats, whether we want it or not ?” The answer is “yes,” and the ratepayers themselves are the only parties to blame. The law gives them the preference in such matters they have the option of saying yes or no to the question. When the meeting was called for the purpose of forming this Board, due notice as required by law was given; the meeting took place and the proposal was carried. It was competent for such meeting to decline the proposal. The fact of the whole matter is those who sanctioned the adoption of the Board did so in utter ignorance of the responsibilities and nature of such authority. The grievance they now complain of so much is entirely of their own creating, had they given the matter the slightest consideration by consulting the Act of Parliament bearing on the subject they would have found that a Local Board is compelled to provide a water supply. Local Boards in most towns of large populations are undoubtedly a necessity. This remark does not in any sense apply to this district owing to the camel-backed nature of the whole area—very nearly all the powers of a Local Board may be carried out by a Corporation and at considerably less expense. The Wenlock Town Council knew that when these Local Boards were formed they shifted a great deal of labour and responsibility from their own shoulders and placed them on those of the Local Board. They are now laughing up their sleeve at the odium and expense they have avoided. In many towns the whole improvements of the borough, water schemes, gas, &c., are carried out by Town Councils, the borough is divided into wards, and one uniform rate is levied, covering the expenses of water, paving, lighting, sewering, &c.; one set of officials is appointed at a great saving in salaries, whereas through our Town Council evading these duties, we have no less than four Local Boards in the district, Broseley, Madeley, Much Wenlock, and Dawley. We contend that the whole burden of these Boards, with the exception of Dawley, would have been avoided if the Town Council had exercised its powers as a Corporation. It is too late now. The ratepayers have consented to these Local Boards, and they must pay the piper. Before the Madeley Local Board was formed we repeatedly warned the ratepayers of the heavy expense and responsibility such institutions would entail upon then. At that time we also warned the ratepayers that the Town Council had powers conferred upon them to carry out the duties of a Local Board, Nineteen out of every twenty of these ratepayers are now anxious, along with their brethren in Broseley, to be rid of such Boards, and would walk twenty miles to attend a meeting to vote for disestablishing and disendowing these Boards, especially Broseley. They have had the chance of preventing their adoption, and the fault is all their own. If we calculate the money spent by the Broseley and Madeley Local Boards, and place opposite that amount the value of improvements to our roads and thoroughfares, we would at once see that our roads are in no better state than they were previous to the adoption of these Boards. We realise the need of a supply of pure water, but deny in toto that such a desideratum can only be carried out by a Local Board. Town Council-can do the work and avoid the necessity of several Local Boards and the little army of paid officials. But as we have said before, if the Broseley ratepayers think they can escape the consequences of their own act and the net they have prepared for themselves, they are mistaken. It could only be effected by special sanction of Parliament. In not one single instance has this been granted to any applicants, and will certainly be refused in this case. The lesson to be learned from these proceedings by the ratepayers of Broseley and Madeley is the nonsense of being led by the nose by a few whose sole aim and object is to remove a heavy burden from their own shoulders and place it upon, them least able to bear it.

BROSELEY.

A JEALOUS WIFE SHOOTING HER HUSBAND.—At the Liverpool Assizes, on Tuesday, before Justice Mathew, Rosina Wasmus (50), was indicted for having, at Liverpool, on the 17th March, feloniously wounded her husband, Heinrich Franz Wasmus, with intent to murder him. Mr. M’Connell was counsel for the prosecution, and Mr. Byrne defended the prisoner. The prosecutor, who is a hair dresser, was married to the prisoner in 1863. Their wedded life did not turn out to be a happy one. Frequent differences took place between them, and on one occasion he was bound over for three months to keep the peace towards her. In the year 1880 they separated, and he agreed to pay her 15s. a week, which he continued to remit to her with regularity. On the evening of the 17th March last he visited his shop in Great Nelson-street, and saw the prisoner standing outside He went through into a back apartment, and in the meantime she entered the shop to make enquiries after her husband. Presently he came out, and saw her lift her hand and present something at him. This was followed by a flash, and he immediately felt that he was wounded in the breast. An assistant in the shop seized her by the arm, and pushed her down. As she fell there was another discharge from the same weapon, and a bullet was afterwards found in the door. The result of the first shot was so serious as to injure the husband, who was removed at once to the Northern Hospital, where it was found that the bullet had penetrated within half au inch of the heart. On the woman being arrested, there was found in her possession a six chambered revolver, two of the chambers of which had recently been discharged.— The prosecutor, in cross-examination by Mr. Byrne, admitted that he had a month’s imprisonment for assaulting his wife. He never had loose women in the house where his wife lived. He represented to a young woman named Martha Roe, formerly of Broseley, who lived at Birkenhead, that he was a single man, and “in the heat of the moment,” said to her that the prisoner was not his wife. He did not say that the prisoner was a “cast off mistress ” of his. What he said was that she was his housekeeper. He told Miss Roe that he would marry her. He told the police that the prisoner had been a bad woman before he married her.- After other evidence. Mr Byrne read the prisoner’s statement, which, amongst other things, charged the prosecutor with wanting to get rid of her at any price. He intended to marry a Miss Pattie Roe, of Birkenhead. After reciting further cruelties perpetrated upon her, by her husband, the prisoner concluded by saying, “I will not and cannot bear more. As I cannot get redress, I intend to be my own avenger. Liverpool is a dirty, drunken town full of savages.”- The jury found the prisoner guilty of wounding, with intent to do grievous bodily harm, and strongly recommended her to mercy on account of the provocation she had received.- She was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, with hard labour.

CRICKET CLUB- The present season of the club was inaugurated on Saturday last, when there was a good muster of members. Sides were chosen by Messrs. F Smith and Thomas Smith, and after a very pleasant game the team of the former proved the victors. The officers of the club are the same as last year, with the addition of Mt Peter Scott’s name as deputy captain, and that of Mr W Close on the committee. The latter gentleman is the recently elected master of Broseley School, and comes from Lancashire with good credentials as a good all-round cricketer. We see him heading the score with 41 fro Malinslee against a club from Wolverhampton. With such a valuable addition there seems good prospects of a successful season. 

NATIONAL SCHOOLS.- The result of the drawing examination which took place on the 7^th March last, has just been received, and considering the short time Mr Close has had charge of the school. The results are most satisfactory and cheering, especially as drawing has not been taught for several years. The following is the result:- 31 have satisfied the examiner that they have been taught drawing; sic have obtained the mark of “good”; two have obtained the mark of “excellent”. Good entitles the boy to a certificate, and excellent to a certificate and a prize, which is a drawing board and T square. The following are the names of the successful boys- Excellent: John Edward Davies, Henry Hayward.- Good A. N. Dixon, W. H. Dodd, W. H. Edwards, E. W. Jones, W. A. Jordon and Richard Tonkiss.

14^th May 1881

JACKFIELD

RE-OPENING OF THE “RED CHURCH”

Jackfield Church on the hill, which has for the last twenty years or more has been in such a state of dilapidation from mining operations as to be unfit for the conduct of divine worship was re-opened on Sunday afternoon last, when service was performed for the first time since restoration by the Rev. E. Lloyd Edwards, rector of the parish. The “Red Church” or “The Old Church on the Hill,” as it is variously called to distinguish to from the Church of St Mary, in Jackfield (erected as a memorial to the late Mr J. Pritchard. Esq.) was erected in, we believe, 1759 as a family memorial by Mr Francis Turner Blythe, and was dedicated to St. Mary, and the single bell was the gift if his sister. The church is built of red brick with stone facings and from its prominent position on the hill is a landmark for some distance. It was built to accommodate 300 persons, and nearly a third of the sittings were free. In the grave yard a large number of the old inhabitants have been buried and there have been occasional funerals since. The church before its restoration presented a most unsightly appearance, the windows had been poked out, the walls with large fissures in them and leaning and bulging to all points of the compass, while the interior presented a most desolate appearance, the rural tablets and ornamentations, roof, &c., having all fallen away, the solid oak pulpit, reading desk, and pews alone standing uninjured, though disfigured by filth and rubbish, as the building has been for many years the favourite resting place of a whole colony of birds, after whose tiny homes the youth of neighbourhood had by no means stinted their mischievous qualities. Some time since at a meeting held on the spot presided over by the Rev. G Edmonds, R.D., Rector of Little Wenlock, Mr. C. W. Pearce, agent for W O Foster, Esq., by whom a greater portion of the mining has been done, offered on behalf of Mr. Foster to restore the church in such a manner that service might be held therein, or to build on an adjacent site a mortuary chapel. It was stated that a sum of £40 year was left by the founder for the maintenance of the church, but this appears to have passed into other hands. The Church has been restored as effectively as could have been done at reasonable expense. The restoration comprises new lead light windows; the old plastered ceiling has been removed and replaced by a new deal ceiling, stained and varnished. Part of the walls have been underbuilt and repaired, the damaged stone, dressings to the windows have been repaired, and the internal walls repaired and coloured. The roof of the tower has been re-tilled and provided with a new lead gutter. The internal oak fittings have been re-adjusted and cleaned and varnished, and the whole has been carried out in a good and workmanlike manner by Messrs. Nevett Brothers, Ironbridge, under the instruction of Mr C. W. Pearce, who has taken a deep personal interest in the matter.

At the hour (three o’clock) for the commencement of the re-opening service, the church was crowded to excess, while a very much larger number of persons remained outside, unable to obtain admission. The service was the ordinary evening service and was performed entirely by the Rector. It commenced with the Old Hundredth Psalm which was heartily joined in by the congregation, as were the subsequent hymns 166, 179, and 240 (Ancient and Modern). The choir of the Memorial Church were present, and performed the anthem “In Jury is God known” in a most effective manner. Miss Lascelles, the organist of the Memorial Church, ably presided at the fine harmonium, kindly lent by Mr Lascelles. The Rector took for his text Acts viii., 35, “Then Phillip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.” The sermon was of a general character, but referred to the lapse of time which had taken place since the building had been before used for public worship. The offertory realised £1 18s. 3d., of which 10s. was in gold, 15s. in silver and 13s. 3d in coppers. The rector’s warden, Mr Councillor Burroughs, was unable to be present from illness.

We understand that the Rector, the Rev. E. Lloyd Edwards, has volunteered to conduct an afternoon service in the church on the secondary Sunday in each month during the summer and autumn months.

It is very gratifying that the service did not interfere with the attendance at the Memorial Church in the evening.

21^st May 1881

JACKFIELD.

A NEW STATION.—We are informed that in accordance with an implied promise, made in consequence of the recent agitation for a railway to Broseley, the Great Western Railway Company are about to erect a station near the present crossings. The plans, we are told are already completed and the work will shortly be commenced. The station will be a very great convenience to the district.

SCHOOL SERMONS.—On Sunday last the anniversary sermons in aid of the Jackfield National Schools took place. The morning service was taken by the Rev. G. Fleming Lamb, M.A., Rector of Broseley, and in the evening service by the Rev. H. S. Wood, vicar of Coalbrookdale. The congregations were very good at both services, and the collections realised £11 6s 2d. The musical services, conducted by Miss Lascelles, organist, were of a special character and were admirably carried out. The Rector of Jackfield, the Rev. E. Lloyd Edwards performed the services at Broseley on Sunday.

21^st May 1881

BROSELEY

THE BILL OF SALE ACT, 1878.—The Lord Chancellor solicited information from County Court Judges and Registrars as to the operation and effect of the Bills of Sale Act, 1878, and supposing they thought the law required amendment, suggestions to that end. Various replies were sent in to his Lordship, amongst them one from Mr E B Potts, Broseley, Registrar of the Madeley County Court, in which he says: “In my official experience as Registrar and high Bailiff, the operation of the Bills of Sale Act is acting most deleterious to the trading interest in this neighbourhood. Credit is given by tradesmen, plaint is entered, and in due course execution is applied for and issued against the debtor. In the meantime a friendly creditor is induced to take a bill of sale, and on the County Court Bailiff levying upon the goods, the bill of sale, registered but a day or so before, is handed in, and the levy is abandoned; probably other executions are awaiting to be levied against the goods of the same debtor. The bill of sale being registered, the plaintiff (generally being small tradesmen) as a rule prefer to abandon the debt rather than lose a day in the hearing of an interpeader summons, and the risk of having to pay the cost of the hearing. To avoid the injurious effects of bills of sale as before set out, I would suggest fur the Lord Chancellor’s consideration whether it would be desirable to enact that all bills of sale given after the date of any process having been issued against the grantor should be void and voidable in law.”

LOCAL BOARD MEETING.

A meeting of the Local Board was held on Wednesday evening at the Town Hall. There were present —Dr. T G Thursfield (chairman), Messrs. H P Dunnill, W Burnet, R  Burton, H M Bathurst, and J C W Lister; Mr Owen Harries, clerk; Mr G Ledger, surveyor; Mr G Stevenson, inspector of nuisances

The Minutes were read and confirmed and on the proposition of Mr Lister, seconded by Mr Burnet, Dr. W N Thursfield was re-appointed medical officer, at a salary of £7 per annum (one-half of which is paid by the Board) for five years.

THE NEW RATE

The seal of the Board was affixed to the new rate of 1s 3d is the £.

THE WATER QUESTION.

The Chairman said the petition of the Board to the Load Government Board in connection with the water question had been sent to the ratepayers committee, who had approved of it with some slight alterations. Mr Thursfield said the chairman of the Board, the Rev G F Lamb, had written to thank the Board for the courtesy shown to the committee by the Board and their consideration of the opinions of a majority of the ratepayers.

The position- which set forth the fact, that Broseley was fairly well supplied with water at present, that the death-rate was extremely low, the heavy expense of a water supply with a decreasing population, decreasing trade, and a large number of void houses, and the probability that if it was supplied to Jackfield (the part most complained about by the medical officer) the people would not use it but prefer the Severn water—was then gone through some slight alterations made in the draft, and was agreed to.

RESIGNATION OF MR GEORGE MAW.

The Chairman said that since the last meeting Mr Maw had sent in his resignation as a member of the Board. He could only express his deep regret, which he believed was shared by every member of the Board, that Mr Maw should have felt it his duty to take this step. They would all agree that no one had shown so much skill or worked harder than Mr Maw had of the matter of the water supply, as could be borne out by Mr Burton, with whom he was associated in the affair. He (the chairman) had seen Mr Maw and had asked him to allow him to nominate him again, but he had declined, and his decision was final. He believed Mr Dunnill would move a resolution on the subject, and he thought the Board would pass it unanimously.

Mr Lister asked if Mr Maw could not be induced to come forward again, but the Chairman reiterated that his decision was final.

Mr Dunnill then moved that the best thanks of the Board be given to Mr Maw for his services on the Board, more particularly in regard to the water question, and that the members expressed their great regret at his retirement from the Board. The speaker said he did not know any men living to whom the Broseley people were more indebted than they were to Messrs. Maw, who had introduced a new industry into the district, but for which it would have been very bad for Broseley. They must all feel a regret that Mr Maw had felt it to be his duty to resign.

Mr Burton testified to the care, accuracy, and skill with which Mr Maw had conducted the enquiries in respect to the water question nothing could excel it.

Mr Lister seconded the motion and remarked that it was not only the water question, but on every other that Mr Maw had shown his skill

The motion was carried unanimously.

ELECTION OF A NEW MEMBER.

The Chairman said the next business was the election of a member in the place of Mr Maw. The election rested with the Board and must be done within six weeks. He did not wish to bring himself forward in the matter, but it struck him on looking round that the most suitable person would be the chairman of the ratepayers’ committee, who from his position had the confidence of a large proportion of the ratepayers and was himself a large ratepayer. He would propose the Rev G Fleming Lamb to fill the vacancy.

Mr Burton seconded the resolution.

Mr Lister asked if Mr Lamb would accept the office

Mr Burnet, while believing everything the chairman had said about Mr Lamb, did not think they had any choice in the matter, Mr Roden having received the support of a large number of ratepayers at the last election, and he thought they had no opinion that to elect him.

It was pointed out that Mr Roden was not resident in the parish, and the Clerk said the question of the filling up of the casual vacancy lay with the Board, and it was also pointed out that Mr Burnet himself was elected under the same circumstances.

The motion was carried unanimously.

NUISANCES.

The Inspector of Nuisances reported a house occupied by a person named Bates at the Lloyd Head, Jackfield, as unfit for human habitation, in consequence of structural defects and dilapidation.

A nuisance from an ash heap at Legge’s Hill reported by Mr Rushton was on the propositions of Mr Dunnill, seconded by Mr Burton, referred to the General Purposes Committee.

THE CEMETERY.

Mr Dunnill said that he had received a communication from the Great Western Company with respect to the proposed new station at Jackfield. Mr Tromp, of Shrewsbury, and Mr Adney, of Worcester, had been down to Jackfield, and fixed upon two sites and plans had been proposed, but the Company were not willing to build the station until the proposed road from Broseley were decided upon. He considered that the road could be very easily made from the Lord Hill thought he Stocking, to the Fishhouse Road, from whence there would only be required the length of Jackfield. It was the best gradient they could have and would be a road free from toll. There was another point, suppose such a road were made, and a free bridge could be got, the London and North Western Company might be induced to bring their station up the river to say the Bedlam furnaces, and supply them with the railway connection which they required. The estimated outlay for the proposed road would be 1½d and for the cemetery 1¼d and he begged to point out that the whole outlay would be spent in labour in the neighbourhood and would come back to the tradesman, besides which it would be a permanent improvement.

Mr Burnet said he advantages were very questionably, and the rates were getting so high as to be unbearable.

The Chairman said they could borrow the money at 3¾ per cent. And the repayment would extend over 30 years.

Mr Burnet remarked that the Jackfield people had already two stations.

The Chairman, in answer to some remark, said the question of a free bridge had been broached in one of the local papers, and the Town Council might be induced to take the matter up.

Mr Lister: Don’t you wish you may get it.

Mr Burton thought the borough ought to do something for they had two toll bridges in two miles.

The Chairman thought the matter would be a burning question. The neighbourhood had submitted for over a hundred years in the matter, and it appeared the time to throw it off. A new bridge would cost 1¼d in the £ on the borough rate.

In answer to Mr Lister, the Chairman said the bridge was estimated to cost £8,000.

Mr Burnet thought they should pause before spending the ratepayers money in making a road to an imaginary station.

The Chairman said the question was about the cemetery, which they must have, as the graveyard was nearly full,

Mr Burnet said Mr Dunnill had mentioned the station, and he had kept that in view.

In the course of a general conversation Mr Rushton and others said the road had been considered necessary, and Mr Burton said if he remembered right, Mr Burnet had expressed himself as strongly as anybody in its favour.

Mr Burnet said that was under different circumstances. They had then the prospect of the London and North-Western Railway.

Mr Burton thought the railways often took people away from the small towns.

The Chairman said the road would induce the Jackfield people to come to Broseley instead of going elsewhere,

Mr Burnet did not think so, and said he should have no objection to propose that the gas lamps which had been placed on the road should be removed.

Mr Dunnill said he would not mind seconding that and several members thought that they might be made more useful elsewhere.

Mr Rushton: How things change in a little time. Mr Burton: It is very amusing.

The chairman recalled the meeting to the question of the cemetery, and the ”battle of the sites ” was again gone through at some length, Mr Rushton, the chairman, and other members of the Board pressing a site near the Old Red Church as the most central and convenient site, while Mr Burnet recommended the proposed site near Oakley’s catchgate.

The Chairman in the course of some conversation said the cemetery and road at the place he suggested would not cost more than £200 more than any other site in Broseley.

Mr Lister said the ratepayers would soon get up another petition.

As to the catchgate, Mr Rushton said if it was the best ground in the district he should object to it.

Ultimately Mr Lister and Mr Burnet consented to see Mr Morris, the occupant of the catchgate site, to endeavour to obtain his consent to trial holes being sunk on the ground.

Mr Dunnill said as the question of the road had been mentioned, he personally did not wish it. If thy people of Broseley did not want the road he did not care twopence about it. His views were not to trouble the ratepayers in the matter, but he thought the thing would recommend itself.

Mr Burnet objected to a clay burial ground, and Mr Rushton enquired if he was particular as to whether it was white clay or red !

THE BOARD MEETINGS.

On the proposal of Mr Lister, seconded by Mr Dunnill, it was decided that the Board should only meet once a month until further notice.

THE REOPENING OF THE RED CHURCH

AT JACKFIELD.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE WENLOCK AND LUDLOW EXPRESS.

Sir.—Your correspondent who last week styled himself “one of the congregation” would be better employed in attending to matters he understands (if there are any). Singing is evidently not one of them and, as his letter is a mean cowardly attack upon the fair sex, contempt is the only thing he deserves. For his special edification, the reason why the lady left her seat to join in the anthem was to be nearer the other members of the choir, and as a member of the same I know a very many will join with me in saying that too much praise cannot be bestowed on the lady and her sister for the very great deal of time and services they have rendered us in making our choir so efficient in every way as it now is.—Yours faithfully.

WILLIAM WILDE.

28^th May 1881

TO BE LET.

THE WOOD HOUSE, situated at Broseley Wood, containing four good Rooms on first foor, with four good Bedrooms. Capital, Garden and out-buildings. Rent moderate —Apply, Mr. Davis Maltster, Broseley.

A Capital HOUSE, pleasantly situated, at King street, Broseley, with two large Warehouses, Stabling and Coach House, with capital Garden well stocked with choice Fruit Trees.—Apply or the premises, Mr Davies, Maltster, Broseley.

BROSELEY

The Rev R. H COBBOLD.- The Rev. R. H. Cobbold, M A., formerly Rector of this parish and now Rector of Ross, has been appointed to Deanery of Ross (Herefordshire.)

PRESENTATION.- Friday last Miss S. I. Street, who has given up the mistress of the Girls School on account of her approaching marriage, was presented by the children with a handsome cruet. The presentation was made by the Rector, the Rev. G. F. Lamb in feeling and appropriate terms.

PUPIL TEACHERS’ SCRIPTURAL EXAMINATION. The result of the examination of the pupil teachers at the National Schools, made in March, has just been received, and is eminently satisfactory :—Girls : 1st class, Lucy Wase and Edith Pountney ; 2nd class, F. A. Evans.—Infants: 1st class, Annie Garbett and S. Davies ; 2nd class, Agnes Scott.

CONCERT AND DRAMATIC ENTERTAINMENT AT THE NATIONAL SCHOOLS.

On Wednesday evening last a grand amateur concert was given in the above schools, at which the Broseley Amateur Dramatic Society appeared in ”Bonabastes Furioso,” this being their first public appearance. The first portion of the programme was a selection of songs, glees, &c., the performers being Mrs Close (soprano), Messrs. H. and E. Wase (tenor), Messrs. Nicklin. Scott and. Evans (bass), and Miss Lessels (pianoforte). Mrs Close sang ”Esmeralda,” with great taste, her voice being very sweet and clear, and the highest notes reached without apparent effort and with great effect, In answer to a well merited encore she gave the favourite old Irish song, “Thady O’Flynn.” She also received a very hearty encore for her rendering of the difficult morceau “Sing, sweet bird,” but to which she did not respond as she had to take part in the glee following. Miss Lease’s solos, the very difficult Pathetic Sonata of Beethoven and Schulhoft’s “Carnaval de Vonise,” were rendered in a truly artistic style, and the young lady herself and the neighbourhood at large may be greatly congratulated at her public debut. We may add that Miss Lessels played the accompaniments in the most skilful manner, and was an evident appreciation of the requirement s of several singers. The Messrs Wase sang their songs with good effect and evidently to the great gratification of the audience. The glees were also very well rendered. The following is the full programme:-

Glee— “Breathe soft ye winds,” Glee Party.

Song— “True blue,” Mr H Wase.

Duet— “Syren and Friar,” Mrs Close and Mr Nicklin (encore).

Song— “Far on the deep blue sea,” Mr E Wase. Pianoforte Solo — “Pathetic sonata” (Beethoven) Miss Lessels.

Song— “Esmeralda,” Mrs Close (encore)  “Thady O’Flynn.”

Song— “Friars of Orders Grey,” Mr H. Wase (encore).

Song— “The Anchor’s weighed,” Mr E. Wase (encore).

Song— “Sing, sweet bird,” Mrs Close (encore).

Glee— “Hymn of the fisherman’s children,” Glee Party.

Pianoforte Solo— “Carnaval de Venise” (Schulhoff) Miss Leasel.

The second portion of the programme consisted of the performance of “Bombastes Furioso,” which was put on the stage in a very creditable style. The play is pretty well known, though perhaps new to the district. In the first scene, a council chamber in the Royal Palace of Utopia, King Artaxominous is discovered enveloped in affairs of state with the Prime Minister, the said affairs consisting of Broseley clays and a bowl of punch, after which we have the triumphal entry of the army under Bombastes Furioso, with trophies, &c., and we must say that with the limited means at hand this scene made a most powerful impression. This is followed by the decoration and knighthood of Bombastes, whose departure is followed by a conference between the Prime Minister and the King, the latter of whom resolves to make Bombastes’ affianced “Distaffina ” his second Queen, this being followed by scene 2, in which the Monarch appears in a sequestered glade in Vallombrosa with a musician and gives a plaintive love song. From this we change to the cottage ornee of Distaffina where Arteaominous offers her (half) a crown and the prospect of royalty appears to make Bombastes’s chance somewhat obscure, when the hero himself appears, and the result is the hiding and discovery of the King, and tenor, remorse, jealousy, and madness ad lib and the resolve of Bombastes to destroy himself in his madness. Scene 4, a street in the Seven Dials reveals the Prime Minister who also falls in love with the heroine. The last scene in the depths of the Black Forest where Bombastes makes preparations for his departure from this world, but on consideration he decides not to do so, but hangs up his boots with the challenges-

“Whoever dare these boots displace, Mast meet Bombastes face to face.”

The King appears and displaces the boots with his sword, and in the combat which ensues is slain. Fubos, the Prime Minister, again comes on the scene, and in a fight with him Bombastes falls dead by the side of the King Distaffina here makes her appearance in grief at the loss of both her lovers; but suddenly the King and Bombastes come to life again, all goes well, and the farce winds up with a break down by the whole company. The whole performance went off admirably, and without the slightest hitch, and the performers received a hearty recall at the close. The costumes were capital; the cast given on the programme was perhaps scarcely correct, and we give here the names:-Artaxominous (King of Utopia), Mr. Green; Fubos (Prime Minister), Mr. Nicklin; Bombastes Furioso (Commander of Forces), Mr. Dodd; Distaffina (Affianced to Bombastes), E. R. Instone; Attendants, G. Davies and Scott; Army, Band, &c., Members of the Society.

Too much credit cannot be given to Mr. and Mrs. Close for their exertions in this and other matters, and they have gained a deservedly good name during their short sojourn in Broseley. There was a crowded audience.

BROSELEY

It is not generally known, but it is a fact that Mr F. G Beddoes, ironmonger, High Street, Ironbridge will supply any family with any one of his celebrated Sewing Machines on terms of weekly payment, thus placing within the reach of all good Sewing Machines on easy terms.- [ADVT.]

BROSELEY AMATEUR DRAMATIC SOCIETY. - It will be seen on reference to our advertising columns that the above society announce another grand concert and dramatic entertainment for June 9th. The extraordinary efforts of the promoters and committee to successfully cater for the general public, deserves most hearty support. We shall be glad to see a very full house on this occasion. Those who patronise this concert will be rewarded by enjoying a rich and rare treat seldom offered.

Through the kindness of Wm. Nicholas, Esq., the Broseley Reading Room and Library have been presented with a clock from the manufactory of Sir John Bennett, of Cheapside, London, which will be a very useful acquisition to the Institution.

BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS, —TUESDAY.

Before T. H. Thursfield (Mayor), W. Layton Lowndes, E. Roden, and G. Maw Esqrs

ILL-TREATING A GOOSE AND GANDER.—Two boys named George Shingler and William Hune were charged by P.C. Brew with cruelly treating a gander and goose, the property of Mr Wheeler, of Posenhall, on May 16. There were four boys in the business, but only the two eldest were summoned. It appeared the lads caught the goose and gander, tore out their large feathers, beat them, and tried to pickle the gander with salt! The lads were discharged with a caution on the parents paying 5s 3d costs for each.

CHARGE OF STEALING WATCHES AND MONEY.- Francis Smith Barnett, clerk and printer, was charged with larceny as a clerk at Broseley, on the 25th of March, 1879, by stealing 16 watches and a sum of £3 l3s 0d. Prisoner was brought up in custody on remand, having been handed over to P.S. Davies by the Dudley police on the 18th inst. Mr Rushton stated that on the 24th of March he had a sale at Mrs Southorn’s of Broseley, at which prisoner acted as clerk. On the same day he had a sale of watches at Much Wenlock. Witness did not know what number of watches there were but prisoner would have in custody watches and money to the value of £37 12s 8d, besides the profits. On the following day prisoner decamped, taking with him the sale books, watches, and cash. Witness produced a letter which his son received from prisoner. After be had met him in Birmingham [the letter was dated at Wolverhampton with the post mark  August 25, and promised restitution to Mr Rushton, but desiring him to keep their recontre a secret, as he had debts and if his creditors found him out he would not be able to pay his father.] On the 24th of March witness had a sale at Mrs Southorn’s. On the following morning prisoner called at witness’s son’s, a butcher, at Broseley, who had bought a number of things at the sale and obtained £3 13s. 0d from him, for which witness produced the receipt. Prisoner had taken 4s 4d off the bill without any authority. Witness had never received this money. Prisoner ran away with the sale books and he had to go round and see what people had bought The amount charged to him for the watches was £37 12s 8d, which he paid to his employer, a Mr Smith, of Birmingham. Prisoner had no authority to sell the watches without witness’s authority or in his presence. Never gave him any authority to sell the watches. Witness was unable to say what were the number of watches and what amount of cash were in prisoner’s possession on the 24th of March, but on taking stock, he found the amount above stated missing.—Mr Henry Rushton, butcher, Broseley, deposed that on the 25th of March, 1879, witness called upon him with the bill produced. Witness paid him £3 18s 0d, and he signed the receipt in witness’s presence.—P.S. Davies stated that on the let of April, 1879, he received a warrant for the arrest of the prisoner. Made enquiries and found prisoner had absconded from information he received from the Liverpool police he communicated with the police authorities at Dudley and on the 18th of the present month he was apprehended there, an witness received him into custody there on the following day. Witness read the warrant over to him and asked him if he understood it. He said “Yes, its quite right.” Witness took him to Wenlock and brought him before W P Brookes Esq, who remanded him till that day.—When charged in the usual way and asked if he had anything to say, he replied “merely that I am guilty.”— He was then, fully committed for trial at the Borough Quarter Session.

HOUSEBREAKING.— An old man named Benjamin Rowley was charged with breaking into the house of Noah Lewis, at Jackfield, on May 23 and stealing a silver watch —Mrs Francis Lewis, wife of Noah Lewis said the watch produced was her husband’s On the 23rd of May it was hanging by the fire-place in the kitchen. Witness was not well and went upstairs to lay down. While doing so she heard a noise downstairs I looked through the window and saw prisoner, who had broken a pane of glass, get through the window into the house. Witness went downstairs and saw prisoner in the act of putting the watch into his pocket. She caught hold of the chain and said, “This what you come to see us for, Benny, to rob us.” Witness caught hold of the chain and took the watch from him. Prisoner only said “Let me do,” “let me do.” Witness knew prisoner before, he comes from Wolverhampton, but the believed he was born at the catchgate at Broseley —P.C. Beckett stated that about 12 o’clock on the 23rd of May be received information from a little girl that a tramp had attempted to steal a watch from Lewis’s. Before witness got to the house he heard prisoner had gone towards Bridgnorth and followed him. Witneess overtook him by the catchgate between the Forester’s Arms and Jackfield. Told him he should take him back to Lewis’s on suspicion of stealing a watch. He said “I haven’t got one. I haven’t stole one.” He said his name was William Davies, and that he came from Wolverhampton. Witness said “Isn’t your name Benjamin Rowley?” He said “Yes, it is; how do you know my name?” Witness took him to Lewis’s and found that a pane of glass had been broken and the blind knocked down. Charged him with housebreaking and stealing a silver watch of the value of £3. He said be hoped witness would not take him, and said he gave the watch back. Witness received the watch from Mrs Lewis. Prisoner was remanded the same day by Messrs. Maw till today.- Prisoner said was very sorry for what he had done. He did break in that was certain. Prisoner was committed for trial.

A ROW IN BARBER’S ROW, BROSELEY.- Isaac Garbett, Sarah Garbett, Eliza Wild, John Wild and Susannah Wild were charged by P.C. Brew with using obscene language to Barbers’s Row, Broseley, early on the morning of Sunday, May 15.- Mr T. W. Cullis, baker and confectioner, and Mr Isaac Watts, draper, were called to prove the disgraceful disturbance which they witnessed from their bedroom windows in the early hours of the morning in question. For the defence, Mary Heighway was called and stated that Susannah Wild was not there, being at her house at the time.- The charge against Susannah Wild was dismissed; Isaac Garbett and John Wild were each ordered to pay 22s including costs, or 14 days; Eliza Wild and Sarah Garbett were ordered to pay 17s each, or 7 days.

JACKFIELD.

PRESENTATION- On Thursday week (Ascension Day) the teachers and scholars of the National Schools presented Mrs B Hughes, the mistress, with a silver mounted biscuit barrel, and a framed portrait of the late Earl Beaconsfield, accompanied by the following address :—

“Dear Mrs Hughes,—We all join in wishing you very many happy returns of the day. May God’s blessing rest upon you, and that you may be spared to spend many more birthdays with us is the earnest and sincere wish of both your teachers and scholars. We present this little gift, hoping you will willingly accept it, as a token of our love and respect for you.—From your affectionate teachers and scholars. May 26th, 1881.”

4^th June 1881

BROSELEY.

LOCAL BOARD MEETING.

The ordinary meeting of the Board was held on Wednesday evening at the Town Hall. There were present Dr. T. G. Thurs. field (chairman), Messrs. M. P. Dunhill, J. C. W. Lister, W. Burnet, R. Rushton and Peter Jones ; Mr Owen Harries, clerk ; Mr George Ledger, surveyor; Mr G. Stevenson, inspector of nuisances.

The minutes were read and confirmed.

THE VACANCY ON THE BOARD.

A letter was read from the Rev. G. Fleming Lamb, M.A., who was elected at the last meeting to the seat on the Board vacant by the resignation of Mr George Maw, declining to become a member of the Board. Some conversation ensued, and eventually Mr Richard Instone was proposed by Mr Lister, seconded by Mr W. Burnet, and carried unanimously.

MISCELLANEOUS

A letter was received from Mr G. Maw desiring the Clerk to convey to the members of the Board his acknowledgments of their kindness in passing the resolution forwarded to him from the last meeting. It had been a great pleasure to him to assist in the deliberations of the Board, and, though he believed no single feature of the proposed water scheme emanated from him he believed it to be the best, and indeed the only practicable scheme for the supply of Broseley and Jackfield.

On the proposition of Mr Rushton, seconded by Mr Dunnill, the letter was unanimously ordered to be entered on the minutes.

In reply to the Chairman, the Clerk said there had been no communication from the Local Government Board in answer to the petition sent up to them on the water question.

Mr Lister hoped they never should have an answer.

Tenders were presented from Mr Smitheman and Mr Lloyd for the erection of an ashpit near the Mission Room at Broseley Wood. Some conversation took place on the matter, and ultimately the tenders were back for a correction of the specifications.

THE PROPOSED CEMETERY.

Mr Lister said that in pursuance of the resolution passed at the last meeting he and Mr Burnet went to see Mr Morris, the tenant of the ground near the Catchgate which it was proposed to try, and they had no difficulty at all with Mr Morris who readily granted his assent to the trial holes being put in. Mr Morris said the Surveyor had not come to him at all, but he sent Beavan, the roadman, and he considered it an indignity to send a man for such a purpose. Perhaps Mr Ledger could give some explanation of the matter. They promised Mr Morris compensation for injury but as the ground was only sown with vetches it would not he much. They had three holes sunk on this ground and three in Mr Instone’s field, and it proved to be very suitable soil for such a purpose.

The Chairman and Mr Rushton said they had seen the ground and were quite satisfied with it.

Mr Ledger said he had himself seen Mr Morris at his own house, and he had afterwards sent Beavan, as he could not get a decided answer at first.

Mr Lister and Mr Burnet said Mr Morris denied this, but said Mr Ledger had gone to him some long time ago about an allotment.

After some further conversation about the matter the Chairman said there was evidently a misunderstanding between Mr Morris and the Surveyor, and the Board accepted Mr Ledger’s explanation.

In answer to Mr. Rushton, Mr. Lister said he believed they could get the ground.

The Chairman said they must ascertain this first, and the Clerk was directed to write to Mr. Potts, the solicitor to the owner, asking if the ground could be had, and at what price.

Some conversation took place as to the probable cost, which was estimate, to be £1,000, including chapel, fence, &c., and this would make a rate of l½d. in the £ for a loan extending over 30 years.

Mr. Burnet suggested that it would much lighten the rate if the loan were obtained to extend over 50 years.

In the course of the conversation a rather curious corruption of a name came to light. Mr. Lister stated that the ground was called ”Bewdley piece,” when the Chairman bent the proper name was the “Burial place,” the ground having been originally intended for the enlargement of the churchyard

This was all the business.

A NUISANCE

TO THE EDITOR OF THE WENLOCK AND LUDLOW EXPRESS

Sir.- Will you kindly allow me a little space in your valuable journal to call the attention of the police authorities or the Local Board to the great nuisance which ahs now become intolerable (more especially as such nuisance is most prevalent on the Lord’s Day). On the high road from Jackfield to Broseley there is a certain brick works; at this spot a band of most incorrigible roughs congregate and persist in annoying the people who avail themselves of this route to the Parish Church; a Band of wild Zulu’s could not be guilty of more despicable conduct, and I trust some means will be at once taken to put a stop to this evil, which is getting worse every Sabbath.

                   I am, faithfully yours,

                               A RATEPAYER

Jackfield.

11^th June 1881

BANK HOLIDAY.

The Bank Holiday was very generally observed in this district, the shops being closed at Ironbridge, Madeley, Coalbrookdale and Broseley, holiday not being kept at Much Wenlock as it falls on the market day. There was very general exodus of the inhabitants to various points of attractions, such as the Odd Fellows fete at Shrewsbury, the opening of the new park at Wolverhampton, the ever-popular Wrekin, indeed so great was the traffic by road, rail, and river, that but few indeed were left to lament their unhappy lot in being obliged to remain in our deserted neighbourhood. Our capricious friend, the clerk of the weather, was not in a good temper and there, were some very sharp storms during the day and a low temperature, which was much felt after the heat of the previous few days.

BROSELEY

BANK HOLIDAY.— The holiday was universally observed here, and many of the tradesmen and others availed themselves of the opportunity of getting away from the town.

We have to record the decease on Thursday of Mr Joseph Langford, who has for a quarter of a century held the post of sexton at the parish church, and was well known to the inhabitants. Mr Langford was 64 years of age.

18^th June 1881

MUCH WENLOCK

CHARGE OF PERMITTING DRUNKENNESS.—P C. Brew charged Mr Thomas Harvey, landlord of the Cape Inn, Broseley, with permitting drunkenness in his house on May 14th.—Mr Carrane (Wellington) appeared for the defendant—Mrs Elizabeth Ann Powis, wife of Mr Powis, of the Crown Inn, Broseley, said that on the night in question about nine or half-past George Simmonds came to the Crown. He was much the worse for beer and she refused to supply to him.—John Simmonds said that on the night of the 14th of May his brother went to him at the Crown Inn, and he went away with him as he was drunk, his brother went to the Cape Inn, but witness did not go. Witness afterwards went to the Cape to look after him. His brother was supplied with some ale. Did not know how much he was supplied with; it was supplied to his brother, but the company drank it. He was drunk when he went to the Crown to witness, and he was very drunk when he was at the Cape—mad drunk.—Cross-examined: Would swear be was supplied with rum and some women drank it. Saw him drink ale out of the glass. Witness went in three times between 9 and 11. Saw his brother with two glasses at the same time, but he was too drunk to drink it. Witness could not swear he saw his brother supplied with more than one glass —P.C. Brew was about to give evidence as to what he saw of the defendant after the house was closed, but Mr Carrane objected. There was no question, he said, that the man was drunk, but what took place after was nothing to do with this case.—Mr Carrane then addressed the Bench for the defence, remarking that Mr Harvey had kept an hotel at Presteign for fifteen years and a half, without having an information laid against him. The man came into the house and was drunk, and Mr Harvey gave orders that he was not to be supplied with drink. Contrary to these orders, however the servant girl 16 years of age, did draw him one glass, without the defendant’s knowledge. The man went away, and returned again about 20 minutes to eleven, but would not be allowed to have anything He believed he subsequently made a bother at his mother’s, and that was how the case came before the Bench. He admitted that defendant was responsible for the act of the servant, but he thought it was one of those cases in which the payment of the costs, without a conviction, would he an ample punishment for this slight neglect.  He called the servant girl, Rosanna Finnan, who said that her master told her not to supply Simmonds with any beer on the night in question, he said Simmonds had had enough. Some one called for a glass of beer in the room and she supplied it and put it on the table. Did not see Simmonds drink anything, but saw him with a glass of beer there. Simmonds called for a glass of rum for some one. He was quiet and did not quarrel with any one.—Cross-examined: only supplied one glass of rum. Four or five glasses were not supplied.—The Bench told the defendant he was responsible for the act of his servant, but under the circumstances they would not make a conviction; defendant would have to pay 22s 6s costs.

DRUNKENNESS.- George Simmonds was charged by P.C. Brew with being drunk and disorderly at Broseley, on May 14. Fined 5s and 10s costs or 7 days..

Before T Instone, Esq., and Captain Wayne.

STEALING UNDERWOOD.- Annie Hill (alias “Guinea Sheep”) and William Pinner, were charged by P.C. Brew with stealing two bundles of faggots from the Benthall Edge, the property of Lord Forester, on the 12th May.- Sentenced to 21 days’ hard labour each.

CHARGE OF THEFT.—George Watson, of Jackfield, for whom Mr Carrane appeared, was charged with stealing 1s 9d the property of Mr Richard Matthews, the Hand and Tankard, Broseley. Mr Carrane said prisoner had only given himself up that morning on finding there was a warrant against him, he being away from home on the previous day, and therefore there had bean no time to get witnesses and prepare the defence. He therefore asked for an adjournment to bail in the next petty sessions and that prisoner be admitted to bail in the meantime. After some demur the bench consented to this, and accepted the bail of prisoner’s brother and Edwin Glaze.

BROSELEY.

NATIONAL SCHOOL.—Since the well-chosen appointment of Mr and Mrs Close to this school it has been our pleasure to record several occasions which has brought honour and merit to the school, and this week we have much pleasure in giving a list of more rewards, all of which are highly complimentary to Mr and Mrs Close. The following pupil teachers have received prizes from the Diocesan Board of Examiners for proficiency in scripture :—For First Class: Lucy Wase, Annie Garbett, Sarah Davies, Edith Pountney, and Marie Shaw, handsomely bound Commentary of the Four Gospels. —For Second Prize: Agnes Scott and William A. Garbett, certificates. The Rector made the presentations with a few words of encouragement.

JACKFIELD

On Sunday afternoon the second service since the restoration of the Old Red Church was held in the building. There was an overflowing congregation, nearly 200 persons being unable to gain admittance. The service was conducted by the Rev. E Lloyd Edwards, rector, and the choir of ST Mary’s Church were present to lead the musical portion of the service under the conduct of Miss Lasseles, organist.

2^nd July 1881

IRON BRIDGE

BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS: —TUESDAY. Before J. A. Anstice (chairman), R. Anstice, E. Roden. A. Maw, Esqrs., and Captain Wayne.

CHARGE OF STEALING MONEY.-George Watson, ironworker, Jackfield charged, on an adjournment from the last court, with stealing a sum of 1s 9d, the property of Mr Richard Matthews, of the Hand and Tankard Broseley.—John Matthews stated that he was the son of Richard Matthews, the prosecutor. Witness assisted him in the business. On the 5^th of June (Sunday), Watson was there in the kitchen, about half past seven or eight a clock in the evening. The room was full of customers. Had change for several customers, is my hand, which witness gave to the owners, with the exception of change out of a two-shilling piece: the change was 1s 9d. Received the two-shilling piece from a named Mullard of Madeley. While witness was getting change Mallard went into another room, and being confused witness put the change on the table in front of George Watson, expecting the owner to take it up. Watson was sitting by Mullard when witness received the two-shilling piece. Watson picked it up: witness saw him. Witness did not say anything at the time, but took particular notice who picked up the change. The money was a shilling, sixpence and threepence in copper. Witness had to go to feed the pigs and was sent for, and in consequence of being sent for he went back again. When witness got back Watson was not there nor his two brothers, who were with him. Sent a man after them but he could not find them. — Cross-examined: Witness’s father told him to tell Watson that he was at liberty.—(Mr Kenyon explained that Mr Matthews had sent for defendant about a grate.) Mullard sat next to Watson on the left. Knew his brothers Benjamin and John Benjamin was in a position to see what was going on. Brought Mullard’s change with several others. He took his ale with him, but witness did not see him go. Noticed particularly that Watson picked up the change. Witness left to go and fed pigs and was not there when Mallard claimed his change. Was not away more than a quarter of an hour. Did not see Watson again till the next morning. Watson had two pints of ale, of which he served one. Watson gave him 6d for it. —George Wood, wheelwright and carpenter, Broseley, said he was at the Hand and Tankard on Sunday evening the 5th of June, in the kitchen. Saw George Watson there. Saw a man go out with a cup, but did know him; had since been told it was Mallard. Another party came and asked him to go into another room. Saw John Matthews come in with change. He put it on the table. It was threepence, sixpence, and a shilling separate; they were not one on top of the other. Saw George Watson pick it up. Did not see anything else.- Cross-examined: The change was not put opposite witness. Have had no trouble with Matthews over this matter. Had not pressed Matthews or threatened him with anything. John Garbett sat next to witness. Had no change himself. Did not notice Watson called out, and did not notice him till he went away for good. Young Matthews was very busy. Was there when young Matthews was sent for. Mr Matthews came and asked about it, and witness told John Garbett he saw Watson pick up the change.—John Bullock, labourer, Broseley, said he was at the Hand and Tankard on the 5th of June, in the kitchen. Saw Mullard there, saw George Watson there. Did not know Mullard till he heard after. Saw John Matthews bring 1s 9d and place it upon the table. It was intended for Mallard. He put it in front of George Watson. Mallard was not there then saw Watson pick up the change. Did not see what he did with it.—Cross-examined: this was between seven and eight. It was a “three horse seat,” and George Wood sat between him and John Watson and George Watson sat next to Wood. Mullard sat in the window. Don’t remember George Watson being called out. Did to notice young Matthews call witness out. It was not his business.- Mr Kenyon: was the other your business. Do you look after changes.- Witness: no. Mr Kenyon: Then it is not your business.- Witness: After Watson had gone Mr Matthews came in and asked if anyone had picked up the wrong change. – William Beedles labour, Posenhall, said, that on the night in question he was at the Hand and Tankard about 7 o’clock. Knew some of the people there. George Watson, he was in the kitchen, Saw the young man who was called Mullard: did not know him. Saw young Matthews there. Saw him bring change into the room. He put it down on the table. Did not notice particular, but there was some copper and silver. George Watson “pocketed” it up. Saw Watson go out directly after Mullard had taken his cup into the parlour. Heard enquiries made afterwards.- Cross-examined: Mullard took up the change young Matthews put down. It was more than change for 6d.- Mr Richard Matthews, the prosecutor, said he was the landlord of the Hand and Tankard. Remember the evening in question. Saw George Watson there. He came up the passage to measure the fire-place. John Watson came in first for a pint of ale, which George Watson paid for. Witness sent for George Watson out of the kitchen about measuring the grate, and he went into the parlour and measured the width of the grate and returned into the kitchen. A young man who was with Mullard gave the two-shilling piece. Witness received the two shilling-piece from his son, and gave 1s 9d out, sixpence, 1s and three pennyworth of coppers.  In consequence of an enquiry he went into the kitchen and asked if anyone had picked up the wrong change. Witness gave the young man, who was with Mullard, 1s 9d. and sent for his son to make enquiries about the change, and he said George Watson had it. Watson came on the following morning and said he did not have it. He came without being sent for. Witness’s son told defendant he did have the change. Witness took out a warrant against him on June 5^th, sight days afterwards.- Cross-examined. Sent for him out of the kitchen about the grate. A few minutes after he had done his business he left.- The chairman said if it might help Mr Kenyon the Bench felt that the case must go for trial before a jury. Mr Kenyon might feel inclined to reserve the defence. Mr Kenyon said, if that was the feeling of the Bench he would reserve the defence.- The defendant was then committed for trial at the Borough Sessions, the same bail being accepted.

WENLOCK

QUARTER SESSIONS.

THURSDAY.

Before CHICHELE PLOWDEN ESQ., Recorder.

There were five cases for trial before the Recorder at the Guildhall, Much Wenlock. Mr R. A. Benson and Captain Wayne were on the Bench. The following were sworn on the Grand Jury:— Messrs. Issac Dunbar, Coalbrookdale (foreman), Joseph Williams Court-lane, Madeley; Edwin Bates. Madeley Hill, Madeley; Francis Davies, brick manufacturer, Broseley; John Moses, Coalbrookdale; Charles Smith Cox, Wharfage, Ironbridge; Thomas Beard. Jackfield; Abraham Britton, innkeeper, Broseley; William John Legge, brick manufacturer, Madeley; Thomas Morris, Bridge Inn Coalport; Joseph Barnett, Hospital. Street, Much Wenlock; Joshua Gill, Barrow-street, Much Wenlock, John Instone, innkeeper, Broseley.

The Recorder briefly addressed the jury, adding that he could not congratulate them upon the state of the calendar.

STEALING MONEY AND WATCHES.

Francis Smith Barnett, printer, was charged with stealing, at the parish of Broseley, on the 25th day of March, 1879, certain moneys and sixteen watches, the property of Thomas Rushton.—Mr Lyde Benson, instructed by Mr Thorneycroft (Messrs. Phillips, Osborn; and Thorneycroft) prosecuted, that the prisoner pleaded guilty,—He was sentenced to nine calendar months’ imprisonment with hard labour.

STEALING COAL.

Edward Doughty (26), Waterman, was charged with stealing, at the parish of Broseley, on the 18th day of February, 1881, 60lbs weight of coal, the property of Joseph Arrowsmith Exley and another.—Mr Jeudwine (instructed by Mr Thorneycroft) prosecuted.—The prisoner pleaded guilty to the charge, and as he had been in prison three months, the Recorder sentenced him to six weeks hard labour.

STEALING A WATCH.

Benjamin Rowley (62), boatman, was charged with breaking and entering the dwelling house of Noah Lewis, on the 23rd of May last, and stealing therefrom a watch.—Mr Loxdale prosecuted.—Prisoner pleaded guilty, and was sentenced to four calendar months hard labour. He was a native of Jackfield, but had been living for the past 40 years in Wolverhampton. In reply to the charge he said he had good heart and good stomach, and was willing to do a good day’s work for Government now. He also stated that he had been out of employment for seven months, in consequence of the pit at which he worked being closed.

A TRIAL OVER A SMALL MATTER.

George Watson (44) moulder, Broseley, was charged with stealing one silver shilling, one silver sixpence and threepence in coppers, on the 6th of June, the property of Richard Matthews, at the Tankard Inn, Broseley.—Mr Spearman (instructed by Mr F H Potts, of Broseley), prosecuted ; and Mr Lyde Benson (instructed by Mr James Kenyon, of Wellington), defended.—Mr R. A. Benson deputy-recorder, presided in the place of Mr Chichele Plowden, who was unable through a slight indisposition, to stop during the whole of the proceedings.—It seems that the prisoner was in the Tankard Inn on Sunday, June 5th, with the prosecutor and several others. The prosecutor brought in some change for a man named Powell, and he placed it on the table, and afterwards this was missed. Prisoner was suspected of taking it. Several witnesses stated that they saw Watson pick it up and put it in his pocket.— After hearing the evidence-, Powell not being called, the Deputy-Recorder asked. Where is the larceny? Where is Mr Mullard? Where is the constable? Where is Powell?— Police-constable Brew said the magistrate’s clerk had thought it was unnecessary for the man to be brought up.—The Deputy-Recorder: It might be the man’s Companions who picked up the money. In fact, the man who is not present, loses the ls 9d. Suppose he doss not wish to prosecute?—Mr Spearman. It is really on all-fours with the Post Office case, in which the postmaster was the prosecutor for it was placed in the name of the proper person, but the name was picked up by the wrong person.—The Deputy-Recorder: It is held, by statute that a letter is the property of the postmaster. — Mr Spearman: It was a post office order.—The Deputy-Coroner: You have the money belonging to no one. The prosecution is withdrawn.  Who lost the money?- Mr Spearman: It was Matthews. I will put the man Matthews in the box —The Deputy-Recorder: No; I won’t allow that, now your case is ended. If the wrong party takes it up I don’t think that man would get the money.—Mr Spearman: The man wanted his florin.—The Deputy-Recorder: It would be rather careless for you and me to put down a sovereign, and not wait for the change. It is rather a County Court case, and for Mullard, or whoever his name is to bring the action. It is for him and him only to bring the case.—Mr Spearman: It appears to be all fours with the post office case.—The Deputy-Recorder: How do you know? I don’t see any legal evidence of a florin being stolen.—Mr Spearman: There is direct evidence. I did not receive the warrant.—The Deputy-Recorder: When the son came back with the change, he could not say who had given him the florin.—Mr Spearman: He could not say who had, but he could say who had not—The Deputy-Recorder: He could not say who had given it him [reading the evidence].—Mr Spearman: It is not necessary to say so.—Deputy-Recorder: Oh, yes. Unless you can say he has suffered loss.—Mr Spearman: It is a question entirely for the jury as to whether there was any larceny —Deputy-Recorder: From a person unknown I should most decidedly, if convicted, reserve the case. There might be a sort of partnership. —Mr Spearman: It is a matter for interference.— Deputy-Recorder: Interference for what?—Mr Spearman: That the money—1s 9d—was taken. —The Deputy-Recorder: In order to establish the larceny there must be a loss.—Mr Spearman: Yes.—The Deputy-Recorder: You have not proved the loss. Suppose a man were to go into a room and say he had brought some money for Jones. Robinson took it up, but Jones did not take up the case. Never in my life have I witnessed a case brought into court in such a manner—not bringing the man to whom the money was said to belong.—Mr Spearman: The money was paid by Matthews to the man who lost it.—Mr Benson: That is not a fair statement—The first witness was then put in the box, when be said that he knew to whom the money belonged when the man claimed it—The Deputy-Recorder (to Matthews): Where is the mysterious man with so many names?—John Matthews: I cannot say where he is now. —Mr Spearman: He is known, and would have been here if it had not been for the advice of the magistrate’s clerk, who advises the borough. Deputy-Recorder (to the jury) Counsel have a right to address you for the defence, and also for the prosecution You have heard my observations on the case.—The Foreman: We think the prosecutor ought to be here.—The Deputy-Recorder: If you think so you will not be justified in bringing a verdict of guilty without the presence of the prosecutor,—The Foreman: We think so.—The Deputy-Recorder (to prisoner) . You are discharged.

This concluded the Sessions.

9^th July 1881

THE BROSELEY COFFEE HOUSE.

GOOD clean and comfortable lodgings are indispensable in these days—when so many working men find it a stern necessity to migrate from one district to another in search of employment. Of late we have noticed a great many complaints in the newspapers as to the way in which many lodging houses are conducted, it is, therefore, with very great pleasure we notice that in the town of Broseley, in connexion with the Broseley Coffee House, every possible comfort is provided in the way of good, clean, and comfortable lodgings for working-men, combined with good reading room, and an excellent and well selected supply of newspapers and instructive books; recreation may also be indulged in by way of a capital bagatelle board and other games. Here the working-man will find that pleasure he has so long sought for in vain. The institution is well managed, and although only open a very short period has secured a first-class reputation for comfort and as providing a home for working-men when the anxieties and dejected feelings of working-men, who are obliged to temporarily leave their homes, are much relieved. The payment of a sum of sixpence commands admission to both reading and bagatelle rooms for one mouth. An institution like this ought to merit the support of working men at home, and those who are frequently called upon to pass through the district in search of work.

BROSELEY.

NATIONAL SCHOOLS.—The following report of the examination of these schools in January last by W. B. Yarde, Esq., has just been received: Boys School “As Mr Close has been but a short time in charge of this school be cannot be held responsible for the results of the examination. I know he found the boys very backward and the general state of the school unsatisfactory. So far as I can judge of his work it promises well. The discipline has improved, though it is far from good, too much talking goes on in the upper classes, especially during changes of lesson. Very careful teaching will be required to raise the school from the very unsatisfactory condition into which it has fallen; the elementary work is weak, the knowledge of grammar and geography is extremely meagre and unintelligent; indeed, I doubt if any instruction had been given in these subjects by the late master. I have to call the attention of the managers and through them of the School Attendance Committee to the very irregular attendance in Broseley the school provides accommodation for 158 boys; I find only 120 qualified for examination, and many of these are but barely qualified. I have no doubt that, there are many children in the parish who attend no school.” — Girls’ School “The discipline and organisation continue good and the general results are very creditable to Miss Street. The upper arithmetic and the geography of the third standard are the weakest points. Needlework is very fair. In this department, too, the children attend very badly out of 130 girls on the book only 65 are qualified for examination.”— Infants’ School. “The first class consisting of 31 children passed well, the other classes are backward. Miss Street must see to this. The discipline is good.”

This report has been delayed since February last through a question being raised between Mr Close and the local authority as to the “evidence of age” in Childs School Book. The local authority demanded payment of 6d per book and Mr Close (the master of the school) finding that the new code distinctly stated that the local authority, if they insisted upon the production of a registrars’ certificate should pay the whole costs, took the matter up in the interests of the parents of his scholars, and the receipt of the report proves Mr Close to be right, as the matter has been left to the  education department. We think the Broseley people need have no fear for the interest of their scholars under the able guidance of Mr Close, and we trust after this proof of his earnestness and ability, that the people of the parish will back him up by sending their children to school with regularity, as it is quite evident their tuition is in able hands. We compliment Mr Close on the result of the correspondence which has transpired in the matter.

BROSELEY PROVIDENT SOCIETY.—At a General Meeting of the members of the Broseley Provident society, held in the Town Hall on Monday, the 4th instant, the London Actuary’s Report for the last five years with read and explained to the members, and it was then agreed to divide 25 per cent. of the amount paid in by each member during that period. On Wednesday evening last this division was made, when the actual cash returned to each member ranged from £1 15s to £1 18s 9d. The Society continues to be very flourishing and prosperous. The number of members is 100, and the balance in favour of the Institution on 81st December, 1880, was £1,121 6s 4d.

LOCAL BOARD MEETING.

The monthly meeting of this Board was held on Monday last, when there were present: Dr    T Thursfield (chairmen), Messrs H P Dunnill, R Instone, J O W Lister, H M Bathurst, R Rushton, P Jones, and W Burner; Mr Owen Harries, clerk; Mr G Stevenson, inspector of nuisances; Mr G Ledger, surveyor.

The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed.

NEW MEMBER 

Mr R Instone, who was elected at the last meeting to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Mr George Maw, made the usual declaration, and thanked the members for the confidence they had shown in him in selecting him to fill the office, and it would be his best endeavour to do has duty to the ratepayers (hear, hear.)

ASH PIT AT LEGGE’S HILL

Three amended tenders for the construction of a public ash pit at Legge’s Hill were sent in, and the contract was given to Mr H Lloyd, subject to his conforming to a portion of the specifications not mentioned in his tender.

THE PROPOSED CEMETERY

In reference to the proposed cemetery letters had boots received from Messrs Potts and Potts, solicitors to General Jenkins, stating that General Jenkins was away from home and that upon his return he would be consulted as to the matter. It was stated in reply to the clerk’s letter that Messrs Potts thought there would be an objection from a neighbouring tenant which however, might be overcome. The matter was dropped.

THE PROPOSED WATER WORKS

A letter was received from the Local Government Board in reference to the petition of the inhabitants and the Board in respect to the strong feeling that there was no necessity for the erection of a public works. The Board had considered the matter and thought it desirable that the adjourned local inquiry into the matter should be made and had commutated with their Inspector, Mr Smith, in reference to it.

The clerk stated that on the receipt of this letter he had seen Mr Potts in reference to the proposed amendment of the agreement for land, but as Lord Forester was away from home and not expected before the middle of July, he could not give any answer. On this he (Mr Harries) wrote to Mr Smith, the Inspector that they had no other scheme to propose, to which Mr Smith has replied that it would be useless to hold another inquiry until he heard further from them.

A letter was read from Mr Massey, the engineer, asking the Board to pay him £100 on account of his services in respect to the proposed water supply. After some conversation, the clerk was given instructions to write to Mr Massey respecting the account.

THE JACKFIELD SLIP.

In respect to this matter the engineer of the Great Western Railway Company had been written to by the chairman with the endeavour to come to some general plan in the endeavour to stop the slide but the letter had not been answered.

Mr Dunnill said the road was now good, but it may give again. He suggested that as this would be the best time of the year to do the work, that the chairman should write to the engineer again.

It was agreed that the chairman should write again to the engineer, pointing out particularly the desirability of the work being done during the summer.

FINANCIAL.

The collector reported that £87 of the new rate had been collected, and it was stated that there was now £78 in hand.

SCARLET FEVER

The Inspector of Nuisances produced his book from which it appeared there were no less than 20 houses in which this disease exists, with an average of 3 or 4 cases each. It was also pointed out that in several eases persons in whose houses the diseases existed were dealers in articles calculated to spread the infection. The chairman said the epidemic was of a malignant character, several children having died within twelve hours of the attack, and he also stated that the smallpox was spreading from London it having already reached Wolverhampton.

After a conversation in which several instances of the most reckless exposure were mentioned, it was agreed that a caution should be posted up reminding persons suffering from infectious disease exposing themselves or those in charge of such persona, that they were liable to a penalty of £5.

THE PUBLIC LIGHTING.

During the meeting the bill of the Gas Company for lighting the public lamps during the last season were sent in, amounting to £148 2s 2d, but on account of their being sent in so late they were ordered to stand over.

16^th July 1881

MESSRS. MAW AND COMPANY’S EMPLOYEES’ ANNUAL EXCURSION.

On Monday last Messrs. Maw and Company, Benthall Encaustic Tile Works, Broseley, treated their employees to their annual “outing.” The places selected for this year’s excursion being Llandudno and Rhyl. Arrangements were made with the Great Western Railway Company to convey the excursionists, numbering about 600, by special train from Ironbridge station. The train started immediately after 5 a.m., proceeding via Shrewsbury and Chester, and after a very pleasant journey arrived at Rhyl a little before 9 o’clock. There the excursionists stayed about two hours, giving an opportunity of viewing the winter gardens, pier, and other places of interest, as also of bathing and breakfasting, after which the journey was resumed, and Llandudno was reached about 11.30 a.m. Leaving the station the excursionists disposed to spend the day in viewing the many objects of interest with which this delightful watering place abounds. George Maw Esq., Mrs. Maw, G. Hornby Maw Esq., and Master D. Maw were present to receive the party, and a most substantial dinner was provided at the St George’s Hotel for the office staff of the firm. The return journey commenced at 7 o’clock, and Ironbridge was reached shortly after 11 p.m. The weather during the day was delightfully bright and fine and the excursionists had a most enjoyable and pleasant trip.

CRICKET.

CRICKET FIXTURES.

July 16.- Broseley v. Hadley, at Broseley.

BROSELEY v. CAUGHLEY.— This match was played at Broseley on Saturday last. The result proved that the Caughley men had much over-rated their abilities, Score:—

BROSELEY       

T Smith, b A Davies   …             ….              16

H Bunnager, run out                 ….              51

S Davies, c and b Jarratt           ....              10

P Scott, c and b Davies             ...                2

T Lister, c Humphries, b Davies …                 3

G Hurdley, c Griffiths, b Maiden …              11

F  Smith, c Benbow. b Griffiths   …               8

W Humphries, c Jarratt, b Davies                11

E Lister,c Evans, b Whittingham     0

W Pugh, not out -      ….            ….                0

T Weale, b Griffiths   …             ….                5

Byes                                         . ..              16

Total.                         ....           ….            133

CAUGHLEY

A Davies, c Humphries, b P Scott....              3

R Jarratt, run out                        ..                0

R Griffiths, b P Stott                  ….                0

W Maiden, b T Smith …                0

W Benbow, c E Lister, b P Scott …                 0

J Whittingham, not out              ….                6

J Humphries, b P Scott             ….                2

A Brown, o f Smith, b P Scot      …                 0

W Bradeley, c H Bunnager b P Scott..            0

S Evans, c Pugh, b T Smith        …                2

J Cox, b P Scott        …             …                 2

Byes         …             …             …                 3

Total         …             …             …               17

WILLEY WANDERERS v SHREWSBURY SCHOOLS.—

The following match was played at Shrewsbury on July 7th, between the Willey Wanderers and the Shrewsbury Schools. Score:—

WILLEY WANDERERS.

W H Latham, b F C Homfray                      15

WRoberts, c Barchard b Homfray               22

W             H Griffiths, b T E Pickering        16

T Smith, b Pickering                                  7

T S Eyt on, b Pickering.ss.                           1

A Waters, b Pickering                                 0

H Bunnagar, c Barchard, b Homfray..          7

P              Scott, b Pickering                       6

Rev. \V Wingfield, not out                           2

H              Wayne, b Pickering                     3

T Dixon, c Grosoenor, b Homfray ....            5

Extras                                                         3

Total                                                         87

SHREWSBURY SCHOOLS

  1^st Innings                                  2^nd Innings

B Thomas, cLatham b Roberts 13 c Eyton bRoberts 11 E G Scovell, b Latham              2  b and c Roberts     0

E W Burbnry, b Latham ..           2 b Latham                5

G E Cranage, b Latham              0 cEyton b Roberts    0

C H Marriot b Latham                0 cWingfieldbLatham 4

F C Homfraye b Latham...          0 cGriffiths bRoberts 6

A B Evans, o Griffiths, b            b Roberts 

Roberts                      1

T E Pickering, b Latham             6 b T Smith             17

W W Meredith, b Latham           0    not out              18

H T Barchard, b Latham.s         3 not out   ....              0

H J Grosvenor, not out              0 b Roberts                7

  Extras      ....                            1   Extras                   3

                                               28                             71

Match between Messrs. Maw and Co.’s employees (Benthall Works).—This match was played on Tuesday, the 12th inst, on the ground of the Broseley Cricket Club, the clerks winning by an innings and 57 runs. Scores

OFFICES.

P Scott, b Harrington ..              …             43

G Hurdley. c E Lister, b Wilde . …               6

A Scott, c Griffiths, b Bunnager                 32

H Kelseye run out                     …               0

G Hornby Maw, b Humphries    …               8

F Bagley, 1 b wicket, b Wilson  …               7

E Nicklin, c and b Humphries   …               0

H Lloyd, not out                        …             20

B Lloyd, b Griffiths                   …               6

A Shinn, run out                       …               7

E Broadhurst, b Humphries       …               0

Extras                                       …              9

Total         ...             ..              ...           138

WORNKPEOPLE.

1^st Innings.               2^nd Innings.

HBunnager, h A Scott          0   cHurdley, b PScott     5

G Wilde, b P Scott                 1   absent                     0

J Lister, c Hurdley b P Scott 5   absent                      0    

\V Humphries, run out        1   run out                      0

W Pugh, b A Scott                2   b A Scott                   4

E Lister, b A Scott                0   c and b A Scott          3

G Wilson, run out                 1   b P Scott                  3

R Griffiths, stumped P Scott 0   not out                      6

J Harrington, b P Scott         3   b P Scott.                  8

W Bradley, c P Scott b

      A Scott                            0 b P Scott                    3

H  Roberts. not out                3 b GH Maw                  6

                Extras                 20  extras                       5

                Total                   36  total...                     43

Umpires : Messrs. S. Adams and W. Shinn.

JACKFIELD.

CLUB ANNIVERSARY.—This usually quiet place was all astir on Monday last, the occasion being the annual procession and feast day of No. 108 Lodge Modern Masons, the lodge being held at the Half Moon Inn (Mr Hiram Hill’s.) This flourishing society which has only been in existence 11 years, is as regards the number of members and the amount of capital invested, in a highly satisfactory condition, and too much praise cannot be given to Brother and Secretary John Humphries and Brother John Lewis for their indefatigable exertions in promoting the prosperity of the Lodge, The members to the number of nearly seventy assembled at their Lodge Room at 10 o’clock, and headed by the celebrated Broseley brass band marched in procession, wearing their regalia, past The Tuckies (the residence of John Doughty, Esq.) up the Dingle, through Broseley, and via Lord Hill Lane, down the fields to the Old Red Church on the Hill, which on this occasion looked at its best, the Union Jack flying from its steeple. After an eloquent sermon, preached by the Rev. E. L. Edwards, M.A., Rector of Jackfield, specially suitable for the occasion, a collection was made on behalf of the Widows and Orphans of the Society, and a handsome response was made to the same. The members again formed into procession at the bottom of the Church Hill, and headed by the rector, churchwardens and sidesmen, marched down the new road through Jackfield to the lodge room, where a most bountiful supply of all the delicacies of the season awaited them, to which it need not be said ample justice was done by everyone. The chair was occupied by the Rector, and the vice-chair by Mr Councillor John. Burroughs, and amongst the company present we noticed Mr J. R. Humphries, Mr W Croudace, Mr Stephen Hill, junr., Mr C Greenhalgh, and Mr T R Burroughs, all of whom are honorary members, in addition to Mr Thomas Instone, Mr Thomas Peake (Hanley) Mr S Hill, senr., Deputy-Grand Master Brother Eaton and Brother Wilcocks, District Secretary of Birmingham Lodge, Mr John Beard, &c.

After the usual loyal and patriotic toasts had been drunk, the vice-chairman gave the “Bishop and Clergy of all Denominations,” coupling with the same the name of the Rev. E. L. Edwards, who returned thanks in a very feeling manner. The chairman having an important meeting to attend was reluctantly obliged to leave the chair early, to which Mr T. R. Borroughs was unanimously voted, and the customary toasts, &c., of the lodge having been drunk and duly honoured, the chairman in a highly eulogistic speech proposed the health of Brother and Councillor J. C. W. Lister (who unfortunately was unable to be present at dinner, although he joined in procession and attended service at church) This gentlemen being so popular with all classes his name met with a very flattering reception. Appended is a hat of some of the songs:—

“She wore a Wreath of Roses.” Brother B Betton.

“The dear little Girl,” Brother John Humphires.

“Ill stand by my Friend,” Brother Bates.

“The Pirate of the Isles,” Deputy-Grand Master. Birmingham Lodge, Mr Eaton.

“When the red moon is up.” District Secretary, Birmingham Lodge, Brother Wilcocks.

“My old grey mare and I.” H Ball.

“Boy in blue,” Brother Betton.

“Why did she leave,” Brother John Humphries’

“Better late than never” H Gabell,

“Poor old Tom,” Brother W Taylor.

“The life of Man.” C Mallard.

“What I saw to the fire as I sat in the chair,” Bro. W Taylor.

During the day the band played some fine selections of music and after a most enjoyable day the proceedings were brought to a close at ten o’clock.

The utmost harmony prevailed throughout.

SUNDAY SCHOOL TREAT.- On Wednesday afternoon the Rev. E. Lloyd Edwards, the churchwardens (Mr Councillor Burroughs and Mr J. Humphries), the sidesmen (Messrs T. R. Burroughs and Mr. C. Greenhalgh) and a few kind friends gave a treat to the scholars attending the Church Sunday Schools to the number of about 90, the treat being confined to those children who had made a certain number of attendances. The children assembled at the school and marched in precession, with flags, banners, &c., to the Ironbridge Station to meet the 4.4 p.m., train, by which they were conveyed to Buildwas, tea with the usual concomitants dear to the juvenile mind being provided in the grounds of the Bridge Inn (Mr and Mrs. Parry’s). After tea a number of sports were arranged for the youngsters who appeared to thoroughly enjoy the “day in the country” so kindly given them. The Rev. Lloyd Edwards, Mr. Councillor Burroughs and Mrs. Burroughs, Mrs. Gray, Mr and Mrs. J. R. Humphries, Mrs. Wiggins, Mum Alexander, Mr and Mrs C. Greenhalgh, and the teachers effectively exerted themselves for the pleasure of the children, who returned by the last train. Mr T. R. Burroughs was unavoidably prevented from attending.

LINLEY.

BLOCK ON THE RAILWAY.— On Tuesday evening a coal truck by some means left the rails as a luggage train was passing through and blocked the line, the up and down trains due at Ironbridge respectively 7.34 and 8.17 being delayed till nearly midnight.

23^rd July 1881

BROSELEY

WESLEYAN SUNDAY SCHOOL ANNIVERSARY.- On Sunday last two sermons were preached in the Welseyan Chapel by Mr J E Lewis, of Birmingham, in behalf of the Sunday School. There were good congregations at each service, and the results were satisfactory.

30^th July 1881

BROSELEY LOCAL BOARD.

NOTICE is HEREBY GIVEN. that MR FRANCIS R SOUTHORN, the Auditor appointed by the Local Government Board, will attend at the Board Room, in the Town Hall Broseley for the purpose of auditing the accounts of the above Board on Tuesday, the 16th day of August next, at 2 o’clock in the afternoon, and notice is given that a copy of the Accounts duly made up and balanced, together with all rate books, account book, deeds, contracts, accounts vouchers, and receipts mentioned or referred to in such  accounts will be deposited in the office of Mr J C W Lister, Broseley, and open for inspection by all parties interested for seven clear days before the audit.

Dated the 27th day of July, 1881,

OWEN HARRIES,

   Dawley, Shropshire,

Clerk to the Broseley Local Board.

MUCH WENLOCK

BOROUGH POLICE COURT,—Tuesday

Before W. P. Brookes (chairmen), T. Instone, R. T. Davies, Esqrs., and Captain Wayne.

INDECENT BATHING —A boy named John James was charged by P.C. Davies with bathing in the Severn at Jackfield, without being decently clothed. The officer stated that complaints had been made to several of the magistrates, and produced several letters. He stated that on the 11th inst he saw defendant bathing with another boy on the Jackfield side of the river; the other boy had drawers, but defendant was quite naked. It was in front of some cottages. The case was dismissed on payment of 7s 6d costs.

Joseph Jones, another boy, was charged by the same officer with a similar offence at the Lloyds, on the same day. The case was dismissed on payment of 7s 6d costs. The Chairman told the boys to tell their companions that they must use drawers.

BROSELEY.

STATE OF TRADE. —General complaints are made of the depressed state of the staple industries of this hitherto prosperous centre of the brick and tile trades. Things here are gloomy in the extreme, with not the slightest bit of blue, sky to warrant hopes of speedy improvement.

ODDFELLOWS ANNIVERSARY

On Monday last the anniversary of the “Rose of Sharon” Lodge, No. 146, of the independent order of Oddfellows, M. U., was held. The members assembled early in the morning, and formed in procession with the usual regalia of the Order, flags, banners, &c., and, headed by the Broseley Brass and Reed Band, paraded the town to the parish church, where a most effective sermon was preached by the Rector, the Rev G Fleming Lamb, M.A.., on the parable of the Good Samaritan, and which was most attentively listened to. The procession then continued its perambulation of the town and returned to the club house, the Lion Hotel, where a varied and substantial dinner was placed upon the table and admirably served by Mr and Mrs J Instone. The chair was occupied by Mr L E Wollstein of Iron-bridge, District Secretary and Delegate of the Wellington District, and the vice-chair by Mr Benjamin Lloyd, Secretary of the lodge.     

The following is a statement of the affairs of the Society:—

SICK AND FUNERAL Fund -Receipts: Cash in treasurer’s hands, January 1st, 1880. £18, 11s 8½d; contributions from own members. £115 5d 2d; contributions from members of other lodges, £14 7s 11d: sick pay refunded from other lodges, £1 9s 10d. fines, £2 5s 6d; entrance fees, 12s 6d; cash withdrawn from bank. £30 0s 0d total, £182 12s 7½d.— Expenditure: Sick pay to own members, £132 2s 5d; sick pay to members of other lodges, £4 8s 0d; contributions repaid to other lodges, £5 8s 0d; payment to district funeral fund, £12 0s 0d; balance in treasurer’s hand, £28 14s 24d; total, £182 12s  7½d

MANAGEMENT FUND.—Cash in treasurer’s hand’s, January, 1st, 1880. £3 10s 11d; contributions, £28 16s 8d; doctors’ levies, £4 17s 0d; sundries, 4s 0d; total, £37 8s 7d. Salaries of secretary, treasurer, and delegates, £6 8s 0d ; salaries of surgeons, £22 0s 0d; levies to district, £3 14s 9d; printing, postage, &c., £1 11s 6¼d; district bill for goods, 4s 11½d; sundries. £1 3s 6½d; doctor’s allowance refunded to own member, 12s 0d; balance in treasurer’s bands £1 7s 9½d; total, £37 8s 7d.—Total value of the Lodge: Cash in bank, £515 3s 2; cash in treasurer’s hands. £30 ls 11½d; interest, £13 1s 6d; total, £558 0s 8d. Number of members on books, 126.

JUVENILE BRANCH—Receipts: Cash in treasurer’s hands, £1 10s 11d ; contributions, £11 4s 0d; entrance fees, 2s 0d; total, £12 16s 11d.—Expenditure. Sick pay to members, £4 7s 8d; incidental expenses, £3 8s 9d; cash in treasurer’s hands, £5 0s 6d; total. £12 16s 11d.-- Total Worth of this Branch : Cash in bank, £32 3s 3d; cash in treasurer’s hands, £5 Os 6d; interest, 15s 0d; total, £37 18s 9d. Number of members. 18.

The Chairman gave the usual loyal toasts in genial and appropriate terms and they were duly honoured by the company.

The Chairman next gave the “Army, Navy, and Volunteers,” in doing which he referred to the past deeds of our Army and Navy, and though our Volunteers were a purely defensive force, if the necessity should arise they would emulate the deeds of our ancestors and our army and navy (cheers). He strongly eulogised our local corps, which, he said, was second to none in the county.

Song: “Tom Bowling” – Mr B Lloyd.

The Vice Chairman next gave “The Bishop and Clergy of the Diocese of all denominations” and in doing so said they were sorry that the Rector was unable to be present, but they were glad to welcome his curate, Mr Prior (cheers).

The Red. A K Prior in response thanked the company for the kind way in which they had received him. He could wish that the church were a more influential establishment, especially in this town. He felt that the object of the Church and the Order of Oddfellows seemed to be identical. Old as their society was the church was older and he did not know till after he entered the room, from the chairman, how identical the objects of the society and the older one from which they copied. Their objects were to help one another, to relive the sick, to assist the widow, the orphan, and the distressed, and to bury the dead, and those were the objects of the church. He felt quite a stranger among them, but he hoped he should not be long so, and that he should also know their wives and families. In his visits to the houses and cottages in the town he had been warmly welcomed, and for whom he knew, and he would conclude by thanking them for the very kind hospitality they had exercised towards him that afternoon.

Song: “The Bonnie English Rose,”—Mr G Watson.

The Vice-Chairman next gave “The Manchester Unity and the Board of Directors,” coupling with the toast the name of Mr Wollstein (loud cheers).

Mr Wollstein said he was very proud and pleased to respond for a society whose pron Song: “The Bonnie English Rose,”—Mr G Watson.

The Vice-Chairman next gave “The Manchester Unity and the Board of Directors,” coupling with the toast the name of Mr Wollstein (loud cheers).

Mr Wollstein said he was very proud and pleased to respond for a society whose proud boast it had been for some years past that it was the largest, richest, and finest friendly society of the day, and he was proud to say that the Manchester Unity had not gone back from any of these positions. He thought that on responding to the toast his proper course would be to give a few figures in connection with the Order to show the magnitudes of its operations and the large amount of good it does. On January 1st, 1880, the number of members was 533,520; there had since been admitted, 45,116, of whom 75 per rent.  were under 25 years of age; during the same time they had lost by death 6803, and from other causes 19,348, so that on the 1^st January 1881, the number of members was 543.485, being a net gain on the twelve months of 9,965 members. (loud cheers.) The financial returns he must give them for the year 1879, as those for 1880 were not yet completed. The receipts were—-amount of contributions in that year to the sick and funeral fund, independent of other funds which were not accounted for to the Party officials, was £548.992 2s 0d; interest or invested capital £176,002 6s 5d; entrance fees, £13,573 7s 4d making a total of £738,567 15s 2d. The payments were—for sick benefits £416,574 19s 5d ; funeral ditto, £114,474 3s 11d; making a total of payment of £531,045 3s 4d. The increase of funds in 1879 was therefore £207,521 15s 5d. At the end of that year the total amount of the sick and funeral funds was £4,731,808 10s 4d; the widows and orphan’s funds and these of the past grand lodges and juvenile branches amounted to £198.281 18s 6d, so that at the lst January, 1880, the funds of the Order amounted to nearly five millions (cheers), and if that progress had been kept up since, as he believed it had, their funds would amount to over five millions (cheers). This speaker then proceeded to glance at the rise and progress of the society; without going so far as to say that the society existed in the camp of Julius Caesar, as some of their older members were fond of declaring, they had record that the society to which they belonged began its existence at a public house in Manchester in 1812. and at first there was no doubt consisted of a sort of “free and easy,” the members of which aided one another in case of distress or affliction, and though in the first instance this relief desisted in a sort of going round with the hat, the advantages of such a society were soon seen by the of the more thoughtful and the club became established on the basis of the payment of a subscription which entitled any member in case of distress or affliction to apply as a right for relief, instead of begging it as a favour, and from this the society made rapid growth in spite of the opposition it entailed. Mr Wollstein proceeded to point out that as a secret society they could not be enrolled and have their funds protected as the village clubs, &c., could—then were outside the pale of the law, and thus the society had been imposed upon and robbed by persons who had forced their way into responsible offices for those very purposes, till at length it was taken into consideration the desirability of dissolving the society; but there were those who saw the amount of good which its principles contained and by the exertions of honest and capable men the difficulty was tided over and the society put on its way to its present success. The speaker went on to show how the society at length obtained by the Friendly Societies Acts the protection of the legislature, and after further describing the progress of the society to the present time, and its extension all over the world, concluded with the lines, as an exemplification of the objects of the society.

Oh what a world of beauty

A loving heart might plan,

If man but did his duty

And helped his fellow-man.

The speaker was loudly applauded in the course of his lengthy address.

Song: “The Anchor’s Weighed,”—Mr Cox.

The “Rose of Sharon Lodge” was proposed by the Chairman, and suitably responded to by Mr B Lloyd the secretary.

Song: “The Soldier’s Tear ”—Mr Ball.

Other toasts of a complimentary character were duly given and responded to, that of the chairman being very heartily received, songs &c, were given and a very pleasant evening passed.

6^th August 1881

BANK HOLIDAY.

In this district the holiday was more generally observed than usual. In Madeley, Ironbridge, and Broseley, the shops were closed; but the holiday was not observed in Much Wenlock, in consequence of it falling on market day. During the day there was a pretty general exodus of the inhabitants on pleasure bent, and the railways was very largely patronised, many taking advantage of the trip to Liverpool, advertised by the Great Western Co., and that to Manchester by the London and North Western Co., while many availed themselves of the opportunity of visiting places of lesser distances. This was somewhat counterbalanced by an influx from Wolverhampton, Birmingham, The Hodgebower Pleasure Gardens, Mr T B Wilson, were well patronised during the holiday. On Saturday the employes of Messrs. J. Bates and Sons, the Scarborough Works. Temple-street, Wolverhampton, to the number of 70, had their annual outing….

BROSELEY.

SUNDAY SCHOOL TREAT. —Yesterday (Friday) week the scholars attending the Birch Meadow Baptist Chapel Sunday School had their annual treat. Tea, cake, &c., was provided in the school-room, the necessaries being provided by Mr Cullis, confectioner. After tea, the youngsters adjourned to the Birch Meadow (kindly lent for the purpose by Mr H M Bathurst) where a variety of sports were organised for their enjoyment by the superintendent, Mr A Evans, and the teachers.

LOCAL BOARD MEETING.

The monthly meeting of this Board was held on Wednesday evening at the Town Hall. In the absence, through indisposition, of Dr Thursfield, Mr H P Dunnill was voted to the chair; there was also present:—Mr R Instone, Mr J C W Lister, Mr Peter Jones, and Mr W Burnet; Mr Owen Harries, clerk; Dr W N Thursfield, medical officer of health, Mr G Ledger, surveyor; Mr G Stevenson, inspector of nuisances.

The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed.

With respect to the tenders for the erection of an ashpit at Legge’s Hill, it was reported that Mr Lloyd had done the work at the price the Board agreed to pay on fuller specification—£4 11s 7d..

THE PROPOSED CEMETERY

The Clerk read a letter he had received from Messrs. Potts and Potts, as solicitors to General Jenkins, the owner of the ground suggested, inquiring under what authority, statutory or otherwise, the Board was proceeding, and whether an order had been received from the proper authority for the closing of the pariah churchyard. Mr Harries said he had replied to Mr Potts that the Board were proceeding under the Interments Act of 1879, which provided all the authority they required. He had not received any answer to his better.

THE PROPOSED WATERWORKS.

The Clerk read letters from Messrs. Potts and Potts in relation to the acquisition of the land from the proposed waterworks at Benthall, in which Messrs. Potts stated that Lord Forester could not agree to the application for the land unless the clause in the agreement as to the supply of water to the Benthall tenants were agreed to, and for which the amended clause suggested by the Clerk did not apply, his lordship (it was remarked) having also to pay largely towards the cost of the construction.

A letter was also read from the Chairman of the Board, in which he expressed his feeling that the Board could not possibly consent to the disputed clause.

After some conversation of no moment, the matter was deferred for the consideration of a fuller meeting of the Board, the Clerk being desired to inform the Government Inspector, Mr Smith, that the matter was not yet ripe for his adjourned investigation.

The next business was the consideration of an application made by Mr Massey, of Newport, who had drawn the plans, &c., for the proposed waterworks at the Mine Spout for a payment of £100 on account. The application was made at the last meeting and was deferred, that the Clerk might write to Mr Massey, enquiring how much he considered was due to him for the work he had done, as there was a possibility that the scheme might not be carried out. Mr Massey now replied that he considered he had accomplished three-fourths of the work he had undertaken to do for £200, and that £150 was due to him, and requested a payment of £100 on account.

This matter was also left over, after some consideration.

THE SCARLET FEVER EPIDEMIC

Dr. Thursfield gave a few suggestions with regard to the late epidemic of scarlatina, which was now abating, but strongly recommended that the schools should not be opened until the 1st of September. He pointed out the schools were the most effective means of spreading the disease, and if attended to in time, should always prevent its becoming epidemic. He stated that the schoolmasters in the town took every possible case, but it was impossible for them to prevent children, suffering from a modified and almost imperceptible, but equally infectious form of the disease, from attending, and the necessity for a whipping up of the children to meet the inspector, under the abominable and disgraceful, he believed he had called it iniquitous, system of the Education Acts, for the grants. Dr. Thursfield proceeded to point out the ways in which the disease was propagated and hoped the managers of the schools would see the necessity of closing the schools tilt the danger of a treats outbreak was over.

MISCELLANEOUS.

The Clerk read a letter from the Local Government Board, consenting to the re-appointment of Dr W N Thursfield as medical officer for five years, at a salary of £7 per year.

The books of the Inspector of Nuisances, and the Survivor were examined, but contained nothing of public interest, and the meeting terminated.

13^th August 1881

IRONBRIDGE PETTY SESSIONS

TUESDAY

POACING PROVENTION ACT.- Levi Evans was charged by P.C. Brew with begin in possession of game on July 24^th.- The officer stated that on the morning in question, about a quarter past five he saw defendant in King Street, Broseley. Witness suspected him coming from an unlawful search for game, and stopped and searched him. Found on him a hare and four small snares. Witness produced the snares and said he had obtained a magistrate’s order for the sale of the hare. He was fined 5s and 11s costs, or 7 days.

BROSELEY.

We are pleased to notice that Mr Joseph Nicklin, for many years a resident of this town, and who so successfully exhibited at the flower shows held here some years back has, at the Moseley and King’s Heath Horticultural Societies’ Show, Birmingham, held on the first of this month, succeeded in gaining two second prizes for grapes, the first which was grown by him being very fine.

20^th August 1881

KING STREET, BROSELEY.

TO BE LET, the Prince of Wales Inn. Good convenient House and Premises; rent moderate; Immediate possession.- Apply, R. Smitheman, King Street, Broseley.

BROSELEY.

WELCOME News.—Dr. W N Thursfield, the Medical Officer of Health in this district, has announced that the few cases of fever which prevailed here have so far abated that the schools may be re-opened on Monday, August 29th.

28^th August 1881

COALFORD WESLEYAN SUNDAYSCHOOL.

The treat annually given to the scholars of the Coalford Wesleyan Chapel Sunday School took place on Monday last. The children assembled at the chapel to the number of over 200, and tinder the direction of Mr W Edge, the superintendent, headed by the Benthall Brass Band, under the leadership of Mr Hudson, as far as the Half Moon, where hymns were sung, as also at Messrs. Craven, Dunnill, and Co’s Works, Messrs. Peter and W Jones, Mr John Burton’s, Mr Francis Davis’s, and elsewhere. On the return to the Chapel, a plentiful and varied repast was partaken of by the children with evident relish after the long walk. After tea had been fully discussed, the company adjourned to a field, kindly lent by Mr Exley, where all kinds of amusements suitable for the children were indulged in, the proceedings being much enlivened by Mr Exley and his sons presenting the scholars with a large quantity of fruit.  We cannot close our notice of this treat without mentioning the services of Mr Edward Harrison, who conducted the singing, Mr James Burns, who collected the funds for the band, and those who came to carry the large flags and banners, foremost among which was a large banner bearing the inscription, “Coalford Wesleyan Sunday School.” Favoured with fine weather the affair was a great success.

BROSELEY.

BOROUGH PETTY    SESSIONS. Tuesday. Before T H Thursfield (Mayor) W Layton Lowndes, T Instone, .J A Anstice, E Roden, George Maw, and W G Norris Esqrs., and Capt. Wayne.

PUBLICANS CERTIFICATES. —This being the general annual licensing meeting the first business was the renewal of the certificates of the publicans and beerhouse-keepers’ certificates within the borough. The number ref publicans is 77; and of beerhouse keepers 41; sweet licenses, 10, two of which are for consumption on the premises; and one billiard licence (British Workman, Broseley). There was no serious complaint during the year, and the whole of the certificates were renewed, with one or two exceptions, the issue of the certificates in these cases being defaced.

CHARGE OF STEALING HAY —A boy of about 10, named Benjamin Fletcher, was charged with stealing a small quantity of hay from a rick in the Birch Meadow, Broseley, on August 3.—Mr George Jay, baker, of Barber’s Row, Broseley, proved seeing the boy pull about three or four pounds of hay from the rick in the field —Defendant’s father said the boy was not out on the day, as he had given him good thrashing, and would not let him go out. He elected to have the case settled by the Bench, and said the case was brought out of spite through his discontinuing to deal with Jay.—The boy pleaded not guilty.—Mr Bathurst pleaded for leniency for the boy, but said be had been subject to so much loss from the Birch Meadow.- In answer to the Bench, he said he had asked the witness Jay to look to the field.—Ordered to pay 1s and 10s costs.—The Mayor added that the Bench had taken Mr Bathurst’s recommendation into consideration and had inflicted so small a fine in consequence.

BROSELEY-

SERMONS.-On Sunday last special sermons were preached in the Primitive Methodist Chapel, Broseley, in aid of the funds towards defraying the circuit debt. The Rev R Robinson, of Derby, preached in the afternoon, and the Rev G Burridge, of Madeley, in the evening. The results were satisfactory.

PIT ACCIDENT.—On Tuesday morning last a young man named James Hall (Benbow) met with a severe accident at a gin pit worked by his father, near the Stocking. The unfortunate young man was injured by a fall of roof, which injured his back most severely. He was taken home and attended by E Glover Bartlam, Esq, but the injuries to his back are of so serious a nature that he has in a precarious state.

3^rd September 1881

DEATH OF MR. AARON LLOYD.-Our obituary of this week records the death of Mr Arron Lloyd, barge captain, which took place on Sunday night. The deceased was nearly the last of the old school of bargemen, big raw-boned sturdy men, whose limbs were lengthened and their muscles strengthened in youth by the heavy work of loading and working their craft, combined with fresh air in plenty and good living abundant. Mr Lloyd had travelled the river of upwards of 50 years, and was well known between Shrewsbury and Gloucester where the nature of his work took him.      

10^th September 1881

BROSELEY, BENTHALL, BARROW,

WILLEY AND LINLEY. COTTAGE

GARDEN AND ALLOTMENT,

SOCIETY.

THE TWENTIETH ANNUAL

EXHIBITION

OF

FRUITS, FLOWERS, AND VEGETABLES

WILL BE HELD

WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY.
 SEPTEMBER

14TH and 15TH, 1881.

IN THE

TOWN HALL, BROSELEY.

COMMITTEE FOR 1881: President-Mr. Potts —Mr. Pritchard, Mr. Lowndes, Mr. G. Maw, Captain Wayne, Rev G. F. Lamb, Rev. W. H Wayne, Mr. T. H. Thursfield. Mr. Bathurst, Mr W. Allen, Mr Lister, Mr. Stevens. Mr. Moore—Secretary and Treasurer—Mr. Wiggins.

ADMISSION: On the First Day, from Two till Six o’clock, One Shilling; from Six till Nine, sixpence. On the Second Day, from Two till Five o’clock., sixpence, from Five till Nine, Threepence. Children under Twelve will be admitted on the Second Day, from Twelve till Two o’clock, at One Penny.

A BAND WILL ATTEND.

Contributions of Bouquets, Evergreens, and Cut Flowers, for Decorating the Hall, -Ornamental Plants in Pots, and other Horticultural Produce, are invited.

GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY.

AN EXCURSION WILL RUN AS UNDER-ON SATURDAY September 17^th, to Llangollen; Ruabon, Corwen, Bala, Barmouth, Dolgelly, Wrexham, Chester, Birkenhead, Liverpool, Stockport, and Manchester. Leaving Worcester at 2; Droitwich, 2-15; Kidderminster, 2-40 ; Stourport, 2-45 ; Bewdley, 2-55 ; Bridgnorth, 3-35; Coalport 3-50; and Ironbridge 4 p.m. To return September 19th or 22nd.

For Fares see Special Bills.

J. GRIERSON,

General Manager.

PLEURO PNEUMONIA AT JACKFIELD.

We very much regret to record that this disease has broken out at Jackfield. On Tuesday last Messrs. William and Peter Jones, brick and tile manufacturers, reported a case of sickness in a young heifer, which was examined the same afternoon by Mr. J. Rose, Inspector for the Borough, who declared a case of pleuro pneumonia. A meeting of the Executive Committee was held on Wednesday afternoon at the Town Clerk’s office, Much Wenlock, Mr. Alderman R. T. Davies in the chair, and the order was made for the slaughter of the animal, which was carried out the same evening in the presence of P.C. Brew, and the carcase buried. The heifer was valued by Mr. James Barnet at 10s.

MUCH WENLOCK

BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS.- Tuesday

ADJOURNED LICENSING MEETING.- The publicans whose applications for the renewals of their certificates had been adjourned were called up, and the Mayor said the magistrates had considered the cases which had been adjourned, because there had been convictions against them, They had decided to renew them. He hoped it would make them more cautious in the future. The publicans whose cases had been adjourned were- Mr Thomas Harley, Cape Inn, Broseley, M J Robinson, the Three Horse Shoes Madeley; Mr John Holding Crown Inn, Ironbridge; Mr D Jones, Talbot Inn, Ironbridge; and Mr Millington, Fox Inn.

17^th September 1881

Apartments to Let

Two ready furnished rooms, pleasantly situated near the Tuckies, Jackfield. Enquire of Mr G Doughty, Jackfield

Situations Vacant

WANTED PARLOUR MAID; to be also good Needlewoman, and a HOUSE MAID, to wait on Schoolroom, and be accustomed to Children.- The Hon. Mrs Wayne, Tickwood Hall. Much Wenlock.

JOHN STEVENS, DECEASED.

ALL PERSONS indebted to the Estate of JOHN STEVENS late of Broseley, in the county of Salop, Chemist and Druggist, Deceased, are requested forthwith to pay the amounts due from them to us, the undersigned. And all Persons having any claims or demands upon or against the Estate of the Deceased, are requested without delay to send us particulars thereof.

Dated the Fifteenth day of September, One Thousand Eight Hundred and Eighty-one.

POTTS and POTTS,

Solicitors, Broseley, Solicitors to the Administratrix of deceased.

HIGH STREET, BROSELEY

15th September, 1881.

THE Representatives of the late Mr JOHN STEVENS beg to inform the Nobilty, Clergy, Gentry, and inhabitants of Broseley and its surrounding Neighbourhood, that they have, this day, disposed of the Goodwill, Stock-in-Trade, Book Debts, which have become due since the 25th day of June last, and the whole of the Formulae and Receipts belonging to, and used in connection with, the business of a Chemist and Druggist, as carried on by the late Mr John Stevens,

To MR CHARLES WALKER BOTWOOD, and sincerely expresses a hope that the same liberal support, so generously given to the late Mr Stevens for 17 years and upwards (and for which the representatives hereby return their most sincere and best thanks) will be accorded to his Success.

CHARLES WALKER BOTWOOD M.P.S.

Pharmaceutical chemist by examination, Operative, Analytical, and Dispensing Chemist and Dentist, in succeeding to the business recently carried on by the late Mr Stevens, has the honour to say that no effect will be spared by him to merit a continuance of that confidence which chagrined fore his Predecessor so large a share of the support and patronage of the Public.

He respectfully begs to say that it will be his constant and earnest aim always to procure the best and purest Drugs and Chemicals, feeling sure that the confidence of the Profession and of the Public can only be secured and maintained by a scrupulous regard to the purity of Medicinal Compounds.

JACKFIELD.

THE WAKE.—The annual wake took place on Sunday and Monday last. There was little to show of time honoured festival except a general cessation of work, with the exception of the spirited effort of Mr. F. Davies, of the Station Inn, who, as last year, got up a series of rustic sports on Monday which attracted a large number of people; climbing the greasy pole, racing for men boys and girls, &c., all found amusements, and the whole concluded with an excellent display of fireworks The sports admirably conducted by Messrs. J. Wedge, G. Schwer, and W., M., and J. Davies.

BARROW

CONSECRATION OF BURIAL GROUNDS.-

Owing to a pressure of lengthy and important advertisements at the last moment, we are compelled to hold over a full report of the proceedings for our next; and other important matter is crowded out.

BROSELEY FLOWER SHOW.

The annual exhibition of the Broseley, Benthall, Barrow, Willey, and Linley Cottage Garden and Allotment Society took place on Wednesday and Thursday last, the exhibition as usual being held in the Town Hall. The more ornamental portions of the show were displayed in the large room, which presented a very tasteful appearance, being draped with flags and ornamented with evergreens, &c., independent of the things shown. Foremost among the exhibitors we must notice the very handsome display from the gardens of Lord Forester’s estate at Willey. The lower end of the room was filled with contributions from his Lordship’s gardens amongst which we noticed a couple of very fine brown Turkey fig trees, lamaria gibba, san chevias nabiles, maranta jebmia, coleus, marantas, &c., and a couple bunches of splendid bunches of Alicant grapes, three of Muscatel Alexandras, and one bunch of “Miss Spencer,’’ three fine dishes of peaches, several plates of fine plums, some splendid apricots, dessert pears, cherries, currants, filberts and cob nuts, apples, a couple of large sound cucumbers, and a plate of nice mushrooms, his Lordship’s display was quite the feature of the show. J. P. G. Smith, Esq., of Sweyney Cliff, Coalport, showed a good collection of ferns, calladiums, dracoenas, coleus, crotons, some rare lilliums, alecasias, &c. George Maw, Esq., showed a large variety of ferns, which were much admired, and we also noticed a fine dish of tomatoes. W. Layton Lowndes, Esq., exhibited a variety of table fruit, some asters and capital vegetables. Mr John Wiggins exhibited a table with a collection of produce of his garden, foremost amongst which was a large basket of cut flowers, moss, fruit, &c., which was much admired, a handsome bouquet of cut roses, a variety of apples and other fruit, kidney beans, ferns, coleus, fuchsias,          &c., and two designs sent by Master Wiggin for the competition for the best Christmas card. Among Mr. Wiggins’s collection we must not omit to mention an artificial fuchsia, the leaves and flowers of which were made of feathers of birds (lent by Mr. Chubb, of Ironbridge). W. Nicholas, Esq., Broseley, exhibited a large number of coleus and other foliage plants. E. B. Potts, Esq., as usual, had contributed largely, his collection including a quantity of rare ferns and flowering and foliage plants. J. H. Maw, Esq., also exhibited a quantity of fruit, &c., Mr. W. J. Wiggins, of Coalbrookdale, showed a nice collection of marigolds and asters. Mr. Geo. Fisher, of Willey, had some fine specimens of honey admirably displayed in glass, and also some fine specimens of clarified honey. Mr. Edwin Wall, of Much Wenlock, exhibited some fine dahlia blossoms and gladioli spikes. Mr. W. Davies, grocer, of Broseley, showed some fine fruit. Messrs. R. Jones, and Son, Coton Hill Nurseries, Shrewsbury, had a very nice display, including palms, crotens, dracaenas, aralias, araucaria excelsior, adiantums, anabili, Canadian pampas plumes, a large collection of Dutch bulbs, French asters, dwarf ten week stocks, natural and artificial funeral wreaths (a speciality of the firm) &c. The show for competition was a very good one as may be imagined in a favourable season in a place in which gardening had been so much encouraged amongst the working population as in Broseley. The potatoes, especially those shown for the prize offered for a collection of 12 varieties, were especially good, and indeed it would be idle to particularise the various garden products where all were more than usually good of their kind, and in many cases it must have considerably puzzled the judges to chose between the excellent articles exhibited. During the show an excellent string band, comprising Messrs. R. Bradburn, 1st violin, G. Gough, 2nd violin, G. Beardshaw, cornet, J. Nicklin, piccolo, W. Baldwyn, doable bass, and W. H. Morgan, harmonium and conductor, discoursed appropriate music from an highly ornamented platform. The judges were for vegetables: Mr. W. Morris, gardener to John Pritchard Esq., Stanmore; Mr. J. Andrews, gardener to Mr. Pritchard, of Astley Abbotts; Mr. S. Knowles, gardener to J. P. G. Smith, Esq., of Sweyney Cliffe; for fruits and flowers, Mr. Joseph Stevens, gardener to Lord Forester, and Mr. W. Moor, gardener to G. Maw, Esq. For the garden prizes, E. B. Potts, Esq., and the Rev. G. Fleming Lamb, Rector, were the judges, assisted by Mr. Stephens. We cannot give too much praise to the following committee, and especially to the hon. sec., Mr. Wiggins, whose exertions, and those of his family are deserving of the highest praise.

The attendance on both days was remark ably good; among those present on the first afternoon we noticed—The Right Hon. Lord Forester, C. T. W. Forester, Esq., M.P., — Locker, Esq., E. Glover Bartlam, Esq., J. H. Maw, Esq. and Mrs. Maw, H. M. Bathurst, Esq. and Mrs. Bathurst, W. Nicholas, Esq and Miss Nicholas, Mrs. Davies, the Misses Thorne, — Berry, Esq. and Mrs. Berry, of Beckbury, E. W. Shorting; Esq. and Mrs. Shorting, Miss Shorting, of Ross, the Rev. W. H. Wayne and Mrs. Wayne, of Willey. Captain Wayne and the Hon. Mrs. Wayne, of Tickwood Hall, W. Layton Lowndes Esq. and party, the Rev. G. Fleming Lamb, M.A., and Master Lamb, G. Maw, Esq. Mrs Maw and party, Mrs. Potts, and party, E. B. Potts, Esq., Mrs. Potts and family, the Misses Potts, the Misses Exley, the Rev. A. H. Prior, Dr. Thursfield and party, F. H. Potts, Esq. and Mrs. Potts, Mr. and Mrs. Wiggins, Mr. Councillor Lister, Mr. Botwood, Miss Stables, Mrs. J. Burton, and Mrs Humphries.

24^th September 1881

T. RUSHTON,

ESTATE AGENT, AUCTIONEER, AND

VALUER, PORTER AND ALE

MERCHANT, COAL MERCHANT,

BROSELEY, SALOP.

A RAILWAY FOR BROSELEY RAILWAY

A year ago a movement was commenced in the town of Broseley having for its object the promotion of a railway in order to provide ?? MORE needed

CONSECRATION OF ADDITIONAL

BURIAL GROUND AT BARROW

On Thursday last week, the Bishop of Hereford consecrated an additional burial ground at Barrow, in the borough of Wenlock. For many years it has been found a difficulty to find space in the present churchyard to inter the deceased parishioners, and representations were at last made to the Right Hon. Lord Forester, who having personally, and through Mr. T. H. Thursfield, J.P., investigated the matter, and found that things were in the state reported, at once, in the most generous manner gave, wholly free, a piece of land one rood in extent to be used for the purposes of a burial ground. The church is one of the most ancient in the county of Salop, if not in the kingdom. Some doubt exists as to the date of its building.

Writing of the church, Eyton, in his “Antiquities of Shropshire,” has the following:—” *  *  * Something should be said distinctively of Barrow Church, a building which proves its own antiquity. The structure belongs to a period to which written testimony seldom extends, and I have no such evidence of its existence till the institution of one rector in 1277, and the deprivation of another and last rector in 1324. In the year 1291 the Church of Barewe, belonging to the Prior of Wenlock, was valued at £4 6s. 8d. per annum. In 1331 Bishop Charlton names it as one of the chapels dependent on the Church of Holy Trinity. But in 1341 the pariah of  “Barewe” was taxed to the ninth as a distinct chapelry. The church taxation of £4 6s. 8d. being made the basis of the temporal assessment. The latter was, however, reduced to £1 14s., for several causes viz., because the corn was deficient from an unfavourable season, because there was no sheep in the parish, because several tenants were too poor to till their lands, and because the glebe-land and altarages went too increase the church taxation, and could not be estimated in the present assessment. A valuation of 1369 gives, among the spiritualities of the Prior of Wenlock, £4 receivable annually from the chapel of Barrow. Another statement shows that the tithes of Barrow were devoted to the sustenance of the monks. The valor of 1534-5 makes no other mention of this church and parish than that the Prior had a portion of 40s., derivable from the vill.” Eyton goes on to speak of the early incumbents of Barrow, including John de Wicumbe (1277), James de Tyceford (1284), and Sir Harno Corn (1321).

On Thursday morning Bishop Atlay was met at the residence of Mr. T. H. Thursfield by the following clergy:— The Rev. W. H. Wayne, rector of Barrow and Shineton; the Rev. G. Edmonds, R.D., rector of Little Wenlock; the Rev. F. R. Ellis, vicar of Much Wenlock ; and the Rev. G. F. Lamb, rector of Broseley with Linley. Shortly after eleven o’clock the order of service authorised to be used at the consecration of a burial ground in the Diocese of Hereford took place. The prayers were read by the Rev. W. H. Wayne. The first lesson, Genisis xxiii, was read by the Rev. F. R. Ellis; the second lesson, 1 Thes. iv, 13, was read by the Rev. G. Edmonds, R.D.; the proper Psalms were the 39th and 40th. The hymns were taken from Hymns Ancient and Modern, and were 136 and 89 (old edition). The Bishop preached a moat appropriate and impressive sermon from Genesis xxiii, 23— “And the field and the cave that is therein were made sure unto Abraham for a possession of a burying place by the sons of Heth.” After the pronunciation of the Benediction, the Bishop, clergy, and congregation formed in procession and marched to the new burial-ground, at the entrance to which a petition was presented to the Bishop, requesting him to consecrate the ground. Headed by the Bishop, the ground set apart for the burial of such as had been baptised according to the rites of the Church of England was marched round, Psalms xlix. and cxv. being repeated. Hymn 87 was then sung. Mr. H. C. Beddoe then read the deed of conveyance of the land, which appoints the Rev. W. H. Wayne, C. T. W. Forester, M.P., T. H. Thursfield, and their successors, trustees of the property. The Bishop having engaged in prayer, he again pronounced the Benediction, when the congregation separated. The musical portion of the service was most efficiently rendered. Mrs. W. H. Wayne presided at the harmonium, and Mrs. T. H. Thursfield and Mrs. Pitts rendered valuable assistance to the choir.

The ground, which we have previously stated, is about a rood in extent, adjoins the old churchyard, only being divided from it by the drive which leads to the principal entrance of the church. The ground is divided into two parts, the largest portion being devoted to the interment of those who die in the faith of the Established Church. The other portion is devoted to the interment of those of other creeds. The ground, cost of conveyance, and all other expenses were defrayed by Lord Forester.

Among those present we noticed Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Thursfield and party; Mr. E. B. and Mrs. Potts and party; Mrs. F. H. Potts and party; the Hon. Mrs. Wayne and party; Mrs. Allen and party; Mrs. Owen, The Marsh, and party; Mrs. Ellis, Much Wenlock ; Mrs. Pitts, Much Wenlock, &c.,

The bishop, clergy, and a number of friends were entertained at lunch at Willey.

JACKFIELD.

DEDICATION SERVICES.— The annual dedication services were held on Sunday last in St. Mary’s Church. The morning sermon was preached by the Rev. W. H. Wayne, M.A., rector of Willey, the morning prayers being read by the Rev.—Poole, of Bristol, and the lesson by C. T. W. Forester, Esq., M.P. That in the evening by the Rev. A. H. Prior, curate of Broseley. The attendance in the morning was very good; at the evening service there was an overflowing congregation. The collections, in aid of the church expenses, amounted to £12 5s. The evening service was full choral, and was ably and skilfully conducted by Miss Lessells, the Organist.

BROSELEY.

A RAILWAY TO BROSELEY.—We are glad to hear that a railway to the town is now in contemplation from an independent source. Full particulars will shortly be announced at a meeting to be held in the town. We trust the tradesmen will now put their shoulder to the wheel and do all in their power to assist and promote the enterprise.

CRICKET MATCH.— A cricket match between a Local Eleven and 22 of the district took place on Saturday last, on the ground of the Broseley Club. The Right Hon. Lord Forester and other distinguished noblemen were present during the day, and took a lively interest in the match, which included among the players C. T. W. Forester, Esq., M.P. The score reached us too late for publication.

1^st October 1881

SPECIAL POLICE COURT.—TUESDAY

Before A. Maw (chairman). and T. 0. Thursfield, Esqrs.

JURY LISTS—The jury lists for the several parishes comprised within the Borough were revised and passed.

STURDY “BEGGARS” WELL PUNISHED.—Francis Wright and Robert Nugent, two sturdy fellows, who pretend to mend umbrellas, &c, were brought up in custody of P.C. George Steadman (8) charged with begging on the previous night at Jackfield. From the evidence of Sarah Scoltock, Salthouse, Jackfield, it appeared that on the previous evening the prisoners came to her house after she had gone to bed. Witness sent her little boy to the window to ask who they were. They first asked if the master was in, and then for the mistress, and said they wanted to speak to her. She told the boy to ask what they wanted, and ultimately Wright said they wanted to ask her to give them some coppers to help them to get to bed. She gave the boy a penny, which he threw through the window. Wright then said he could not find it, and asked for some matches, which he threw him, and which he struck, and said he could not find it; he asked for more matches, and she said she had not any more, and after a time prisoner said “good night,” and went away. Witness was very much frightened.—Walter Bryant said on leaving his work at nine o’clock on the night in question he went to the Half-Moon, when the last witness came in and told how frightened she had been by the visit of the prisoners. Knowing that there was only his wife and her sister in his own house he at once went home and found that prisoners had there and very much frightened them, and that they had locked the door in the prisoner’s faces. He returned, and heard prisoners talking at another cottage. He then met the policeman and told him. The policeman met them coming from another cottage. He handcuffed them, but found Wright could slip one of the hand, and he took them into the light at the Half Moon, while he sent for another pair of handcuffs from his lodgings. While there Wright drew the sodering iron produced from his pocket, and said it was a good job for the policeman that there was no else about, or he would split his ---- head with it; he attempted to strike Steadman with it, and it took three men to hold him down in the chair. The policeman took them to his lodgings and adjusted the handcuffs, and witness went with him. While there Wright said it was a good job there were more than one at the back of the policeman, or it would take a -- sight better man than him to take him up.— P.C. Steadman deposed to receiving information of the matter and to meeting Bryant, whose evidence be corroborated.—In answer to the Bench, he said that both men (Nugent being drunk) used very bad language on the way to the station, and Wright struck him and knocked his helmet off.—Wright said the officer struck him on the side of the head, and he knocked off the helmet in patting up his arm to avoid the blow.- The officer said he did not strike prisoner. — Sergeant Turner said the prisoners came into town on Sunday morning, and had got drink at several public houses by saying that he had ordered it, whereas he had never seen them.—P.C. Davies said they had called the police station and said they were travellers. He told them if they were bone fide travellers they could demand refreshments, but he gave them no order.—Wright was sentenced to fourteen days hard labour and Wright to seven days hard labour.

8^th October 1881

BROSELEY

BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.

Before T H Thursfield (Mayor). Ralph A Benson, and E Roden. Esqrs, and Captain Wayne.

A FAMILY DISPUTE — P.C. Brew charged Jeremiah Brown with being disorderly at the New Inn, Benthall on September 19th. From the evidence it appeared that the daughter of Mrs Roberts had gone away with defendant, and that her mother refused defendant’s demand for her clothes until she was satisfied they  were married, said that defendant refused to show her that it was so, and consequently she refused to give up the clothes till she knew if they were married. Mr Benson called up Mrs Roberts’s daughter, who said she was married to defendant in Manchester. The Bench thought defendant and his wife should have satisfied Mrs Roberts as to the marriage, and told defendant he had no right to do as he had done, but under the circumstances they would dismiss the case.

DISORDERLY  — Bridget Pope was charged by P.C. Brew with being drunk and disorderly at Hockley, Broseley, on September 17th. Fined 1s and l0s costs, or seven days.

LOCAL BOARD.

The ordinary monthly meeting was held on Wednesday evening. Mr. Lister was voted to the chair, the other members present being Messrs. R. Rushton, P. Jones, and W. Burnett; Mr. Owen Harries, clerk; Mr. G. Stevenson, inspector of nuisances; Mr. G. Ledger, surveyor.

The minutes of the last ordinary meeting were read and of the special meeting held since were read and confirmed.

THE SLIP AT JACKFIELD.

A letter was real from Mr. G. Maw thanking the Board for their offer in respect of the stoppage of the slip and accepting the terms, at the same time stating that they (Messrs. Maw) did not intend using the whole of the money estimated at once, but to assess the various contributors in accordance with the amount offered, and that in case of the slip not being cured at once to call upon them for a full amount.

In the course of the conversation which ensued it was stated that the estimated cost of stopping the slip was £370, of which the Great Western Company had offered £100 as their share. After some conversation it was ordered that an agreement should be drawn up by the Clerk containing Messrs. Maw’s undertaking to refund the money if the slip moved within three years of the completion of the work.

Mr. Peter Jones said he did not believe Messrs. Maw would succeed in stopping the slip by the means proposed.

THE PROPOSED WATER WORKS.

A letter was read by the Clerk from the Local Government Board’s Inspector, Mr. Smith, asking to be advised of what steps the Board weres taking in respect of the supply of water previous to his fixing the adjourned enquiry. The Clerk was instructed to reply that the Board was testing a fresh source.

Further on, Mr. Burnet reported that the trial hole on the fault was proceeding and that up to that time the indications were very favourable.

A letter was received from Mr. Massey declining to accept £100 as full payment for his services, but offering to take £160, or £100 on account.

After a discussion, which it is not desirable to report, it was proposed by Mr. Rushton, seconded by Mr. Peter Jones, and carried unanimously that Mr. Massey be offered £125 in satisfaction of his claim, the amount, if accepted, to be paid at the next meeting.

FOUNDRY LANE.

Some discussion ensued on the application of Mr. W. Jones that the Board should take over the road.

The road, it was stated, had not been put in the condition required by the Act, and the matter dropped.

THE PROPOSED CEMETERY.

The Surveyor produced a plan of the ground required for the proposed Cemetery, a tracing of which the Clerk was directed to forward to Messrs. Potts and Potts. as solicitors to the owner.

There were no other business of importance.

JACKFIELD.

VISIT OF AN OLD INHABITANT FROM NEW ZEALAND.—On Tuesday last the inhabitants of the valley were surprised by the firing of cannons, &c., during the day and found on enquiry that the occasion was the safe arrival in London of Mr. James Jones of Hopefield Station, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand, brother to Messrs William and Peter Jones, brick and tile manufacturers, of Jackfield, whose work people and friends had heard of Mr Jones’s arrival and were anxious to show their sympathy with the joy of his relatives and friends. Mr Jones arrived in Jackfield on Wednesday, and his presence caused a renewal of the demonstration. Mr Jones has left this country over 21 years and is paying a visit to his brothers and relatives, intending to return in due time to the country of his adoption. It may not be out of place in noticing this event to make some mention of Wm. and Peter Jones, which we have gathered from friends who know the circumstances, and which probably act as an incentive to some of the younger generation and show them that honest perseverance and industry has its due reward where properly applied. Some 22 years ago Messrs James and William Jones were acting as foremen for Mr Lewis, who then worked the “Little Brick Work,” as it was called; some months later McAndrew Dodd, who had the “Big Brick Work” adjoining; died, and Mr Lewis took to the work. On hearing this the brothers went to the landlord and asked him to let them have the work, to which he consented, but Mr Lewis on finding this out discharged them at once, and kept on the work. Mr James Jones was so disgusted that he determined, in his own words, “never to ask another man for a day’s work in England,” and he kept his word, and severing his connection with the Church here and Sunday School, of which he had been a scholar from a child and teacher afterwards. He sailed for New Zealand, where the sunshine of prosperity has fallen upon him, and he is now the owner of an extensive sheeprun, on which the fall of lambs is usually about ten thousand.

The two other brothers fund work in the neighbourhood for some years, until Mr Lewis was obliged to make a composition, when he offered them the “Little Brick Work,” which they took, and in time, by the help of friends, and particularly by the confidence reposed in them by the managers of Messrs Pritchards and Nicholas’s bank they were enabled to take the “Big Brick-kiln,” both of which works they have now carried on with the greatest success for some years. This success has not been accomplished without labour and skill; but it must have been a proud eminent for Mr James Jones’s brothers, when they were able to fetch in their own conveyances their emigrant brother, whom they took to Shifnal in a borrowed cart, and show him as their own the two works from which they bad been peremptorilly discharged. “May brotherly love continue” is a text of one of our great friendly societies, and in this case it has flourished at both ends of the earth, and paternal affection has withstood the progress of time and the wearing influences of distance, and proud indeed must be the mother of four-score to see her children gathered from the ends of the earth ere she follows the unerring course of nature.

“LANDSLIP IN SHROPSHIRE.—A large landslip has occurred on the River Severn, at Broseley. One of the hills which border the river at this point has recently given way, falling towards the river, and carrying with it the Severn Valley Railway, which runs through the hill. Within a short period the railway has been lowered by a slip to the extent of five yards, thereby necessitating continual attention and expense on the part of the Great Western Railway Company in keeping up the level. The slip has now assumed a serious aspect, and at one point, near Jackfield, the river has been so narrowed by the fall of earth as to be scarcely navigable. The fall continues daily, and is placing in jeopardy the buildings upon the hill. It is believed that the cause of the slip is a stratum of blue clay at the foot of the hill and near the bed of the river, which the perpetual current of the river washed away, thus bringing down the hill. The slip is 100 yards in breadth, and upon the land affected there is a church, as well as other large buildings.”—The above appeared in the Bimingham papers last week, and has somewhat astonished the natives living in innocent security amid such great peril within the ecclesiastical parish of Jackfield. It is true there is a slip of a footpath towards the river at this point, which has several times been mentioned in our reports of the Broseley Local Board, and at the last meeting of that body an agreement was made with Messrs. Maw, who own a road which is expected to be affected, for them to attempt the work of stopping the slip, the Board agreeing to go as far as a not very considerable sum. Persons who have friends in Jackfield need be under no immediate apprehension for the safety of their friends, such landslips being very common occurrence, caused by some divergence in the river’s current.

LINLEY.

SLIP ON THE RAILWAY.—The railway men on this length of the district are engaged on slip here affecting the Severn Valley Railway.

A RAILWAY TO BROSELEY.

TO THE EDITOR OF WENLOCK AND LUDLOW EXPRESS

Sir,—For some years you have in your columns advocated so strongly a railway to Broseley that I hope you will excuse my taking up a short space with some remarks on the subject. It is well known from your columns a fortnight ago, and also from the presence among us of gentlemen evidently “prospecting ” that something is “in the air.” What that is, or what may result we cannot tell, but only hope that in some way or other some company, either the Great Western, the London and North-western, or the Midland Company will bring us railway accommodation. The question undoubtedly that requires an answer is—By what plan can Broseley be served best, most conveniently and most inexpensively? A branch from Ironbridge would bring the Great Western; but would this be much advantage? Would it not rather for ever shut out any other Company and give them a monopoly? Would this suit Broseley, especially now the barge traffic is so restricted? A continuation of the London and North-western line from the Coalport line, with a bridge over the river as proposed and Surveyed last year, would be very direct, no doubt, but has anyone seriously entertained this since they have seen the sections and levels over the line? Is there traffic to justify such an outlay, even if the levels serve? The outlay and the gradient I fear will stand in the way of this plan. A plan was once suggested and levels taken for a branch from the Wenlock line at Farley Dingle by Wyke and Arlscot, but who would be benefited by this but the Wenlock Railway. It was once said when the Wenlock Company obtained their bill for a line from Stirchley Station on the London and North Western Railway to Lightmoor, to join the Wenlock line, and that the North Western could use this line and the running powers over the Severn Valley from Buildwas to Ironbridge which the Wenlock Company possess, and thus the North-Western would get to Ironbridge and up to Broseley, but I don’t think this complication is feasible, even if the Lightmoor to Stirchley branch was made. There is a probability of a railway being again projected from Wolverhampton to Bridgnorth, with the intention of going through to Craven Arms another year. This is not at all a new proposal, and may this time be more successful—it is in good hands and I hope they will be able to carry it out. I think they will not easily be beaten. If they should succeed, could not a branch be made to Broseley at less cost than in any other way, and would it not give us direct communication with Wolverhampton and Birmingham and South Wales round by Wellington.

Will some of your readers give their views on the question for a railway to Broseley.

                   Yours truly,

ANEROID.

(This was probably G. Maw Ed.)

BENTHALL.

The harvest thanksgiving services in this little Parish Church, held last Sunday, were unusually bright and hearty. There was a fair congregation in the morning, and the one in the afternoon was very large. Appropriate sermons were preached by Dr. Day, the Vicar, from Psalm 66, verse 12, and Ruth, chapter 2, verse 8. The decorations were most effective. The collections amounted to £1 8s. 10½ .

BROSELEY.

TEA MEETING AND ENTERTAINMENT.—On Monday last a tea meeting was held in the Wesleyan Chapel, which proved a decided success, a full room partaking of the first-class tea provided. After the room had been cleared a miscellaneous entertainment was given, at which the Rev. J. A. Aldington, one of the newly-appointed ministers to the circuit, presided, and gave an interesting address. A very pleasing programme was performed to a crowded audience in a most satisfactory manner, the Broseley Handbell Ringers and Mr. Aquila Evans’s glee class affording special enjoyment. The usual votes of thanks terminated the proceedings. Everything passed off well, and in a pecuniary sense we understand the meeting will prove as successful as it was in other respects.

Boys’ School.—The following is the Diocesan Inspector’s (Rev. T. L. Wheeler) report of this school:—Boys’ School : “The condition of religious knowledge has improved since last year, and is now very fair on the whole. The lowest division seems to require more attention, especially in the teaching of the Commandments. The two upper divisions passed very well on their Scripture subjects, but not so well in Catechism and Prayer Book”

CRICKET CLUB.—The closing game of the season, was played at Broseley on Saturday last, after which the members with a few friends arrived at the house of Mr. Richard Bailey, the Napoleon Inn, where a very sumptuous dinner was placed on the table. It is needless to say that the exhilarating game had put a keen edge on the appetites of the players, and this was soon proved by the hasty disappearance of the good things provided. The cloth being removed, Mr. Martin, the respected secretary, was called to the chair. He alluded to the rather unsuccessful result of the year’s marks, and hoped that next year would be better, financially the club stood well. The highest batting average is obtained by Mr. P. Scott, the veteran player, Mr. T. Smith, coming next, Mr. W. Close, Mr. F. Smith, Mr. Tom Lister following. The usual toasts, including the health of Dr. Taller, the captain, were given and the evening was spent in a very pleasant manner.

JACKFIELD,

ST. MARY’S CHURCH.- A harvest thanksgiving service was held here on Thursday evening, and it being the first of the kind ever attempted in Jackfield much interest was naturally felt in the occasion. The decorations deserve something more than passing notice. The font had a floating cross, and was tastefully covered in passion flowers and other flowers, and was the work of Mrs J R. Humphries, assisted by Mrs A H Wiggins. The altar rails and choir stalls were most exquisitely adorned with all kinds of fruits, &c.; these were done by Miss Doughty, Miss P Doughty, Miss M. Doughty, and Miss E Pryce, of Newtown, assisted by Master T Doughty; much time and skill must have been occupied in doing the above, which reflected the highest credit on those concerned. The window sills and gas lights were done by the Misses Harper and Mr. J R Humphries, the pulpit and lectern by Mrs T R Burroughs, Mr and Mrs C Greenhalgh, and Mr Humphries, and the very handsome screen by Mr J. R Humphries, assisted by Mr and Mrs C Greenhalgh and Mrs T R Burroughs. E B Potts, Esq, of Broseley, kindly lent some choice plants in pots, and contributions of flowers, fruit, and vegetables were kindly sent by W L Lowndes, Esq. Mr Doughty (Tuckies House), Mr J Humphries (Broseley), Mrs Palmer (Salthouse) Mr Bevan (Jackfield), Mr Walmsley (Wellington), Mr W Jones (Calcutts House), and many others. The service was full choral, being intoned by the Rev E Lloyd Edwards, Mr Sidney Deane, R.A.M. (Wolverhampton), presiding at the organ. The sermon wee preached by the Rev R Maltby, MA, Rector of Dawley Parva. The lessons were read by the Rev G Fleming Lamb, M.A., Rector of Broseley, and the Rev R Oakden, Sutton Maddock. The collections amounted to £2 8s 5¼d

22^nd October 1881

ROUGH LANE, NEAR BROSELEY

ON MONDAY NEXT, OCTOBER 24th, 1881.

MR. RUSHTON

Is favoured with instructions from Mr. HAMLET STEVENS, who is leaving the Neighbourhood, to

SELL BY AUCTION,

On the above date,

THE FOLLOWING USEFUL HOUSEHOLD

FURNITURE.

COMPRISING 2 sets of bedsteads, good feather bed, bolsters, and pillows; palliasse, washstand, toilet were, toilet glass, child’s chair and picture. FRONT KITCHEN—Good painted deal table, mahogany arm chair, set of tea trays, snuffers, trays and waiters; fender and fireirons; stand, with brass top; case of stuffed birds, lot of china and glass, 3 oil paintings, paraffin lamp, pair of candlesticks, brass ladle, tea caddy, lot of plates and dishes, lot of ornaments. BACK KITCHEN- Round table and cover centre table, 3 ash chairs, rocking-chair, fender and fireirons, pair of candlesticks, 2 trays, hearth rugs. BREWHOUSE—Wood bench, pig bench, 2 small ditto, wheelbarrow, 12-round ladder, variety of pots and saucepans, 3 rat traps, 4 hedge hooks, large quantity of garden tools, bird cage, lantern, quantity of flower-pots, glass and frame, iron furnace, 3 wash tubs, water tub, and other effects.

Sale to commence at TWO o’clock prompt.

GREAT GALE; SERIOUS LOSS OF LIFE AND DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY.

On Thursday night and Friday last week a most destructive hurricane blew over the whole of this country carrying death and destruction in its track. From all parts of the country reports have come to hand of loss of life and damage to property. House property in many midland towns suffered to an incalculable extent during the late gale. Nearly 1,000 large timber trees have been uprooted in Warwickshire alone, while vehicles were blown over and the occupants thrown out. Many persons were killed by the fall of trees or their branches, and in some parts of the country the swollen rivers carried away, not only agricultural produce, but in several cases human beings. In Berwick there are grave fears for the safety of some 200 fishermen who were out on Friday. At Eyemouth, again, it is stated that at least 70 or 80 fishermen have been drowned Very many shipping casualties, as might have been expected, are reported, and in these are involved a considerable loss of life; while on the other hand, the rocket apparatus and the lifeboats have been nobly serviceable in rescuing a large number from certain death. The steamer Cyprian, of Liverpool has been lost with 20 of the crew.

At West Bromwich a stack of chimneys were blown down and three men were killed; a pupil at St. John’s College, Leatherhead, was fatally injured by the fall of a shed; a boy was killed at Newmarket by the falling of a tree; at Wisbeach a man was drowned in endeavouring to recover his hat, which had been blown off; and several persons have been taken to hospitals, with more or less injury. Later reports continue the list of deaths and casualties, as well as the destruction to property, urban and rural. Many persons were killed by the fall of trees or their branches, and in some parts of the country the swollen rivers carried away, not only agricultural produce but in several cases human beings. Further news has reached us with regard to shipping disasters during the recent gale. The Ganges front Middlesbrough to Calcutta, stranded en the Goodwin Sands, and four men were drowned a schooner is ashore at Dunbar, a total wreck, and it is supposed her clew are all lost; the Ada Maria, wheat laden, stranded at Avonmouth, and one man was drowned; a pilot coble at South Shields capsized and three men were lot; a small schooner off Puffin’s Island, with all hands. From the following accounts however, it will be seen that the gale has been general.

BROSELEY AND JACKFIELD.

In Broseley the damage done by the storm was confined to but few buildings, these suffering from displaced chimneys and pots, and tiles stripped off, the most serious that we have heard of being the carrying away of a large cowl from the malthouse of Mr W Burnet. Of course the old dilapidated cottages, of which there are so many in the town, suffered from the displacement of the tiles by the wind. In the surrounding district a large number of trees had been uprooted and large branches torn from others At Jackfield much damage was done among the brick-works and cottagers and a number of trees were down. The most serious disaster was the fall of a large chimney stack at the works of Messrs. Exley and Son; the stack fell upon a portion of the building on Friday, fortunately just after the men had left for their midday meal. The roofs of three drying sheds were also blown away, and other minor damage is reported.

BARROW-

HARVEST THANKSGIVING. —A service took place here on Wednesday, the 12th instant. The church was beautifully decorated by Mrs Wayne, Mrs Allen, Mrs Wingfield, Mrs Thursfield, Mrs Potts, and Miss Owen. Lord Forester kindly sent a great number of foliage plants; which added much to the appearance, and together with ferns and flowers tended to make the whole look extremely well. The Rev. H Wayne preached an excellent sermon, which was attentively listened to by a large congregation filling the church to overflowing. Prayers were read by the Rector, and the lessons by Cecil Forester, Esq., M.P. Lord Forester and a large party were present, G. Meredith, Esq., and Mrs Meredith, Captain Wayne and the Honourable Mrs. Wayne. Tatton Dixon, Esq., F. Potts, Esq., Major Carr, T H Thursfield, Esq., and Mrs. Thus-field, Rev. H. Wayne and party, and a large number of parishioners.

From here

JACKFIELD.

JACKFIELD NATIONAL SCHOOL. — The following is a copy of the Diocesan Inspector’s report of this school, inspected on the 10th instant:—”The condition of the religions knowledge has improved since last year, and is now good. The 1st standard passed exceedingly well, except in the repetition of the commandments. The other divisions very fairly.”

BROSELEY.

The Bishop of Chester has presented the vicarage of Christ Church, Chester, to the Rev. Alban Kagg, formerly curate of Broseley.

D. COMPANY 1st. S.R.V.—On Saturday afternoon this company had their last ”march-out” of the season. Starting from the armoury at Ironbridge the company marched to Broseley via the New Road to a field kindly lent by H. M. Bathurst, Esq., where a number of evolutions, principally skirmishing, were gone through, blank ammunition being supplied to the men. The company was in command of Capt. J. A. Anstice, and Lieutenant R. E. Anstice, and Capt. H. Anstice (55th Foot) was also on the ground. The company was headed by its fine band under the leadership of Mr. George Beardshaw, and at the close of the drill they adjourned to the Town Hall to partake of refreshments kindly provided by T. G. Thursfield Esq, battalion surgeon, afterwards making back to the armoury where they were dismissed.

29^th October 1881

NORDLEY.

FORESTERS’ DISTRICT MEETING.—On Monday afternoon the quarterly meeting of the delegates of the Ironbridge and Broseley took place at the Swan Inn, Nordley (Mr. J. Hall’s. The chair was occupied by Mr. Edwin Bates. D.C.R.. and the vice-chair by Mr. W. Edwards, Sub-Chief Ranger; there were also present—Mr. E. Darrell as delegate from Court ”Royal George,” Iron-bridge, 2476; Mr. G. Maiden, Court ”Pride of the Green,” Broseley; Mr. J. Hall, Nordley; Mr. W. Harper, Court ”Iron Duke,” Jackfield; A. Evans, D.S., Broseley. Mr. W. R. Hartshorne, Broseley, was elected district secretary, the duties of which office had been performed by Mr. F. Johnson since the decease of E. Nicklin. The accounts were duly examined and passed, the district being in a most flourishing condition. The next district meeting will take place at the Duke of Wellington Inn, Jackfield (Mr. W. Hill’s.)

BROSELEY.

ATTEMPTED SUICIDE.—On Monday last week, ,a man named Ebenezer Berks, waggoner to Mr. James Burnet, The Folly, was found by his son in an outhouse with his throat cut and much exhausted from loss of blood. Mr. Heron, assistant to Dr. Thursfield was called in, and found the old man’s knowledge of anatomy was limited, and the wound, though deep, not of a serious one. He is progressing favourably towards recovery, and will probably ere long have an interview with the borough magistrates.

ENTERTAINMENT AT THE NEW

MISSION ROOM.

On Monday evening last the first of a series of entertainments in connection with the Working Men’s Club established at the New Mission Room at Broseley Wood took place. It will be remembered that the building was raised by subscription to meet the want of accommodation for church goers at such a distance from the parish church. The ground was given by Lord Forester, and at a bazaar arranged to assist in the provision of the building. Lord and Lady Forester, Mr. C. T. W. Forester, M.P., and Mrs. Forester, the Countess of Bradford, and the Ladies Florence and Mabel Bridgeman gave valuable assistance, as duly reported by us at the time. As intimated above a working man’s club has been formed in connection with the room, the opening of which practically took place on Monday, when the junior Member for the Borough, Mr. C. T. W. Forester, kindly consented to occupy the chair, and to do his share towards entertaining the crowded company who attended. We may, perhaps, here mention that the President of the club is the Rector of Broseley (the Rev. G Fleming Lamb, M.A.) the secretary Mr. Mason, and the treasurer Mr. Howells, the following gentlemen forming the committee:—The Rev. G Fleming Lamb, G. Baker, J. C. W. Lister, H. Bonager, C. Evans, J. Edwards, Foster, Shaw, Mason, Shorting, Bathurst, Watts, A. Evans, Davis, J. Fennel, N. Hill, Tomkiss, Howells. A large portion of the committee are persons selected from the class of persons who are calculated to use the rooms, and various games may be indulged in as well as the usual papers being to be had, a small lending library also open to the members, H. P. Dunhill, Esq., acts as hon. sec., and as a matter of course there is no political bias in the matter, as some of our Broseley friends appear to have thought. Among those present on Monday evening we noticed, in addition to the Chairman, T. H. Thursfield, Esq., Mayor of Wenlock ; E. B, Potts, Esq., the Rev. G. Fleming Lamb, Rector of Broseley ; the Rev. A. H. Prior, curate of Broseley; E. W. Shorting, Esq., H. P. Dunhill, Esq., H. M. Bathurst, Esq., &c. In opening the proceedings the Chairman expressed the gratification he experienced in being asked to take the chair on the occasion, and hoped the twin object of the institution would be successful—the provision of a place for public worship and for recreation. He might , mention that the Broseley Wood Working Men’s Institute, owed its occupancy of the room to the kindness of Lord and Lady Forester, and the speaker also referred to the exertions of Lady Forester and Mrs. Forester on the occasion of the bazaar referred to above. He continued to say that Mr. Bryce Smith, of Whalley Print Works and Manchester, had kindly given 81 vols. to the library, Mr. H. P. Dunnill 82 vols., and Lady Bressey sent a copy of her book, ” Sunshine and Storm in the East.” It is hoped further additions will be made, and that the library will become a valuable feature of the institution. A librarian has been appointed, and the books numbered and prepared, so that members can now take them to their own homes for reading. The institute is for working men, but there is no reason why ladies should not join. For a 5s. yearly subscription they can have the use of the library, and attend, at half cost, the lectures and entertainments which will be given from time to time daring the winter months. The working men of Broseley are earnestly requested to support their own club, to subscribe regularly, and to induce their fellow workmen to join. In conclusion, he hoped that all present would be satisfied with the programme, and that the results would be satisfactory (loud applause). The following programme was then gone through in an admirable manner, the performers being vigorously applauded, and in several cases encored. The Chairman’s humorous readings were warmly received, as was also that of Mr. Close, while the Misses Lessels and Mr. Evans were equally favoured by the audience :—

Overture—” De la Caraneni ” (Gretroy), Band. Sung—” Men the Life Boat ” (H. Russell), Mr A Evans.

Reading—” Betsy and I are out,” Mr C T W Forester.

Duet—” Song on May Morning ” (Miss Lassels), Misses Lessels.

Reading —” Catching a Weazel ”(a hurnourous reading in the Lancashire dialect), Mr W Close.

Song—”Every Bullet has its Billet” (Bishop), Mr W Francis.

Sole (pianoforte)—” Cameval de Venice” (Schntloff) Miss Lessels.

Reading- “My Balloon Ascent,” Mr Forester.

Song—” Say will thou that I came again ” (Miss Lassells), Miss Lessels.

Pedowe—Band.

At the close Mr. Dunnill proposed, and Mr. Shorting seconded, ”That the cordial thanks of the members of the Institute be given to Lord and Lady Forester for the interest they had taken and their kindness in securing to the working men the use of this room, and to Mr, Cecil Forester for taking the chair on this occasion.” Mr. Dunnill mentioned that 103 members had joined the institute, and hoped to see it with 300. The Rev. G. F. Lamb proposed, the Rev. A. H. Prior seconded, and it was carried with acclamation, a vote of thanks to the performers on the occasion. It is only right to mention that the building was built by and from the designs of Mr. P. Smitheman, builder, Broseley, to whose execution of the work every credit must be given.

5 November 1881

BROSELEY.

LOCAL BOARD MEETING.

The ordinary meeting of the above Board was held on Wednesday evening at the Town Hall. There were present—Dr. T. G. Thursfield (chairman), Messrs. H. P. Dunnill, R. Burton, Richard Instone, J. C. W. Lister, H. M. Bathurst, Peter Jones, and R. Rushton ; Mr. Owen Harries, clerk ; Mr. G. Ledger, surveyor ; Mr. G. Stevenson, inspector of nuisances.

The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed.

THE PUBLIC LIGHTING.

On the production by the Clerk of the memorandum of agreement between the Broseley Gas Company and the Board, some discussion ensued.

Mr. Dunnill said that before this contract was ratified he should wish to place before the Board the position in which the ratepayers stood. The gas company charged £1 17s. 9d. per lamp for gas and lighting. Allowing 6s. for lighting and 6d. for repairs, it left £1 11s. 3d. for gas only. The consumption per hour with a proper burner and a good supply would be 5ft., or 5000ft. for 1000 hours—the number of hours specified in the contract. It was all but certain that the actual use was not more than 4ft. per hour. This would make the charge per lamp in 5,000ft. 6s. 3d. per 1,000, or in 4,000 7s. 9¾d. to the ratepayers. How does this agree with the charge to private consumers? The printed list of the gas company showed that the smallest consumer is supplied, deducting discount, at a net cost of 5s. 2d. per 1,000, and consumers of 60,000 at 4s. 7½d. An official quotation, which he produced, gave 4s. 8d. per 1,000 to consumers of over 200,000, and this, subsequently, had been reduced to 4s., as was shown by an invoice and receipt which he produced. The gas company certainly had an unique way of doing business. If you consume 60,000 the charge is 4s. 7¼d. ; but should you go up to 149,000 their charge is 4s. 9d. He noted this merely in passing. The ratepayers through the Local Board are the largest consumers of the gas company. With 70 lamps, at 5,000, it would give a consumption of 850,000, so that there could be no reason why they should be charged more than consumers of 201,000—viz., 4s. per 1,000. This would make the cost of the gas per lamp—with a consumption of 5,000—equal to 20s., and the overcharge 11s. 8d. per lamp. But the actual consumption was not over 4,000, and the charge should be 16s. per lamp instead of 81s. 8d., or an overcharge to the ratepayers of 15s. 8d. per lamp, amounting on 70 lamps to £58 7s. 5d.

Some further discussion ensued, in which most of the, members of the Board took part, and it was resolved on the motion of Mr. Rushton, seconded by Mr. Burton, that the Chairman and Mr. Dunnill be deputed to interview the directors of the Gas Company, and lay before them these facts with a view to a reduction in the charges.

Mr. Dunnill pointed out that the public lighting formed one-fourth of the expenditure of       Board.

THE WATER QUESTION.

Mr. W. Burnet and Mr. Richard Instone in a report on the trial for water at the Hay Cop, which stated that the pit had now been sunk 27 yards, and though water had not been met with in any considerable quantity, there was nothing to show that water would not be found, and that the opinion of practical miners was that the water of the fault would be tapped at a greater depth. The amount expended up to the present bad been £28 9s, 3½d,

Some conversation took place, in which the whole matter so frequently reported was gone through,

The Chairman remarked that the question before them was whether they would go to any further expense in testing the ”fault.” He did not know how they were to make use of the water if they found it, unless it was pumped up to the higher ground on the Benthall side, but it had been the opinion of a number of ratepayers, expressed when the Board’s scheme was published, that the water would be found here, and as they had defeated the scheme before the Government Inspector it was due to the ratepayers in question to try their scheme. It would be the ratepayers who would have to pay the cost, and the question was would the Board go to further expense to try the ”fault ?”

Ultimately, on the suggestion of the Chairman, Mr. Lister proposed, Mr. Bathurst seconded, and it was decided, that the committee be empowered to sink a further 10 yards.     

MR. MASSEY’S CLAIM.

In respect to Mr. Massey’s claim in respect of the engineering work for the Mine Spout water scheme, a letter was read from Mr. Massey accepting the Board’s offer of £125 for the work already done, with the promise that he should carry out the rest of his contract if the Mine Spout scheme were proceeded with.

FINANCIAL.

The Clerk reported the available amount to the credit of the Board (with the amount of the rate to be collected) at £285, and deducting Mr. Massey’s account, £160. There was £47 owing to the Gas Company, and the Surveyor would require a cheque for £20.

THE PROPOSED CEMETERY.

In reference to the proposed cemetery, a letter was read from Messrs. Potts stating that General Jenkins would be willing to sell the acre of ground required for £175, the Board paving the expenses of the transfer. After a conversation, in which the Clerk produced the forms of the Public Loan Commissioners for the borrowing of the money, the clerk was directed to write to General Jerkin’s solicitors, stating the willingness of the Board to accept the terms.

THE SLIP AT JACKFIELD.

The Clerk read the agreement drawn up between the Board, the Great Western Railway Company, Messrs. Maw and Company, and Messrs. Craven, Dunnill, and Company, in respect to the slip on the towing path at Jackfield. The following is the proposition to be paid by each:— Broseley Local Board, £70 ; Great Western Railway Company, £100 ; Messrs. Maw and Company, £100 ; Messrs. Craven, Dunnill, and Company, £20; and General Jenkins, £35.

A letter was read from Messrs. Maw, who have undertaken to stop the slip, and to refund the money if this plan is not successful at the end of three years, asking that a clause should be inserted that if the work should only be partially successful that the amount to be refunded should be in proportion to the extent of the failure, and this was unanimously agreed to.

The remainder of the business was of a routine character.

POLICE COURT.—TUESDAY.

Before T H Thursfield (Mayor), and A Maw Esq.

ALLEGED NEGLECT OF WORK.—David Roper, who described himself as a builder, of Broseley charged G Preece, bricklayer, with neglect of work by leaving his employment without notice. Complainant alleged that defendant had been in his regular employment since June. He told him when he came for his tools on the Sunday morning that he would summon him if he left without notice. Defendant said he did not care for the summons. Defendant said he was not in regular work, and that complainant had frequently told him he might leave if he could better himself and he had worked for other persons.—Complainant said defendant had never been stopped at his work except by the weather, and that he had been with him on the previous Saturday to try and get bricklayers.—The Bench considered the case proved and ordered defendant to pay 5s damage and 7s costs, or 7 days.

12^th November 1881

BROSELEY GAS COMPANY.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE LUDLOW AND WENLOCK EXPRESS

Sta.—Popularity may, to some, be an enviable thing: and to pose as the ratepayers champion is all very well when there is a grievance to be redressed, or an injustice to be removed: but such an outrageous statement as that made by Mr. Dunnill at the last Local Board Meeting, held at Broseley, ought not to be allowed to pass unchallenged. The directors of the Broseley Gas Company, according to that gentlemen state, are annually over-charging the ratepayers the sum of £15 7s. 5d.- a serious charge if sub satiated, but an equally audacious one if refuted. Taking a special arrangement between the GAS COMPANY and himself as a basis for his calculation, Mr. Dunnill proceeds, with  his own satisfaction, that the patient and long-suffering ratepayers are being subjected to an over-charge of 15s 3d. on each public lamp. But do the facts of the case warrant such as assertion? Upon enquiry, from a reliable source, it is proved that the actual charge per 1,000 cubit feet of gas for the public lamps is 5s. 5d., and not 7s 9¾d. as was erroneously stated. The contract for supplying the public lamps, which has been in force some years, and has never before been questioned, stipulates that the Company shall supply a certain quantity of gas per hour, including the lighting, cleaning, painting, and all the necessary renewals and repairs of the lamps at £1 17s. 9d. per lamp. And how do these figures compare with those charged by neighbouring local companies? In some instances they are considerably under the amount, and not in one case, so far as has been ascertained, are they appreciably in excess. Why, then, we naturally ask, has so unfounded a charge been made!  Are the Local Board anxious to get the Company under their own control ? And, if so, would the ratepayers be the gainers? The long-promised water supply, and the much wanted railway accommodation appear to exist only in the imaginative brains of certain individual members of the Board, and benefit that would accrue to the town if the Local Board obtain possession of the Gas Works is considered problematical in the extreme. It is whispered that, after much contention and strife, the Local Board have, at last, decided upon a site for the long talked of cemetery; and, if the ratepayers are to be periodically startled with such glaringly inaccurate statements as those that emanated from Mr Dunnill last week, it will not be a matter for public regret should the first interment that takes place be that of the Local Board itself, which has promised so much, but, alas! performed so little.

I remain, your obedient servant,

                               “BLAZE AWAY.”

WENLOCK TOWS COUNCIL AND AND MAYOR’S DINNER.

The annual meeting of the Town Council was held on Wednesday last at the Guildhall. After the business of the finance committee had been performed, the members assembled at the Raven Hotel, where a procession was formed headed by the ancient mace-bearer and the four attendant pal-bearers, to the Guildhall, where the retiring Mayor, T. H. Thursfield Esq., took the chair ; there were also present—Alderman E. W. Smith, W. Layton Lowndes, J. A. Anstice, R. S. Davies, and T. Instone, Councillors R. E. Anstice, E. Burton, J. Burroughs, A. Jones, R. Cooper, W. Y. Owen, A. B. Dyas, E. Roden, T. Haynes, H. M. Bathurst, J. C. W. Lister, J. Bodenham, T. P. Everall, and J. Instone, J. C. Cooper, clerk ; G. Burd, magistrates’ clerk ; Mr. R. Hartland, borough treasurer.

ELECTION OF MAYOR.

The Mayor said the first business was the election of Mayor. Would any gentleman present propose someone to fill the office for the ensuing year.

Alderman J. A. Anstice said he had great pleasure in proposing Mr. Councillor Maw to fill the office for the ensuing year. He was sure that if he were elected he would perform the duties of the office ably and efficiency. He had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Maw on the magistrates bench frequently, and from his experience knew that any public duty he undertook would be preformed impartially and satisfactorily.

Mr. Alderman Instone begged to second the motion which was unanimously carried and the new Mayor was formally conducted into the robes and chair of office cud signed the usual declaration.

The Mayor said that in taking his seat as Mayor of that ancient borough, he bogged to return them his sincere thanks for the honour they had done him in electing him. He trusted they would not compare him with other and abler occupants of the chair. He had not had much experience of municipal business, but his only endeavour would be to perform the duties of the office to the best of his ability

Councillor R.E. Anstice had great pleasure in proposing a vote of thanks to the retiring Mayor. No gentleman could have performed the duties more ably and conscientiously.

Councillor Roden seconded the motion which was unanimously carried.

The Ex-Mayor said he was much obliged to them for the vote of thanks so kindly passed. It had been a great pleasure to find that those duties had been performed, to their satisfaction. He had received every assistance from the Bench and the officials of the Borough. He was afraid it had been rather an expensive time for the borough and an arduous time for the officials. He was not in the habit of working for nothing, but it was a great pleasure to him to do what he had to do for the Corporation of Wenlock for nothing (laughter).

The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed in the usual manner, and the town crier and mace-bearer, Mr. T. Yates, was re-elected to his office

COMMITTEES

The usual committees were re-elected.

COUNCIL MEETINGS.

On the proposition of Councillor Anstice, seconded by Alderman Smith, the quarterly meetings of the Council were fixed for the first Monday in February, May, and August, and the lit of November.

PRESIDING ALDERMEN.

On the proposition of Alderman Lowndes, seconded by Councillor Owen, the following were appointed presiding Aldermen :— Much Wenlock, Mr. T. Instone; Broseley, W. Nicholas; Madeley, Mr. E. W. Smith

BOROUGH RATE.

The Ex-Mayor said it was estimated they would require £271 for the next quarter, including compensation under the Contagious Diseases (Animals) Act. There was a balance of £188 18s 10d. A 1d rate would realise £805, making a total available balance of £488, which would leave a balance of £177 for the purposes of the borough, and they would probably have a small balance in February.

The motion for a 1d rate was seconded by Mr. Everall and carried unanimously.

THE BOROUGH ANALYST.

Mr. Blount (Shrewsbury) reported that no samples had been sent to him for analysis during the quarter,

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES.

Mr. Whittaker reported the number of weights and measures stamped during the 28 day% spent by him iu the borough (including the packing of the official weights) as weights, 1,603 ; measures, 184 ; examined but not re-stamped—weights, 2,648 ; measures, 1,070; the amount received for men and materials was returned by the (Mr Whittaker) at £14 16s. 8d.

THE QUARTER SESSIONS

The finance committee recommended the payment of the quarter’s bills, with the exception of an account of 6s. for the repair of a chair in the Guildhall, which had been ordered by a gentleman not connected with the Conned.

STONE THROWING

Councillor Jones proposed that bills should be published with regard to stone throwing.

Alderman Lowndes thought it was the duty of the Local Boards, and after a conversation.

Councillor Anstice said the matter should be brought before the Madeley Local Board of their meeting on Monday, and the matter dropped.

BOROUGH BRIDGES

The Bridge Committee reported that the bridge over the Walton Brook, which was accepted with others as a borough bridge at a Council Meeting held in February, 1880, had given way and become dangerous.

The Council having appointed Mr Groves as surveyor for the purpose of rebuilding the same, plans and specifications were prepared by him, and approved of by the committee, and tenders were received from seven builders, that of Mr. Bowen, of Netchwood, being accepted. A contract was prepared by the Town Clerk and signed by Mr. Bowen, and the work was now in progress. It had been decided at a previous meeting that notices should be placed on the borough bridges stating that they were only to be used for the ordinary traffic of the borough; but the committee thought it an unnecessary expense to place them on all the bridges.

The report was adopted, and the question of placing notices (which were stated to cost £1 each) was left to the committee.

CONTAGIOUS DISEASES (ANIMALS) ACT.

The Ex-Mayor read the report of the executive committee, which stated that during the year the committee had held 22 meetings. There had unfortunately been a serious outbreak of pleuro-pneumonia at Oakwook Farm, in the parish of Ditton Priors, in the occupation of Mr. Aston. There had also been a case of pleuropneumonia at Jackfield, on the premises of Mr. Adam Jones, and a case of swine fever at Shirlett, on the premises of Mr. Joseph Myatt. There had been eight cattle slaughtered, seven of which belong to Mr. Aston and one to Mr. A. Jones ; one pig had also been slaughtered, the property of Mr. Myatt. The parishes of Ditton Priors and Cleobury North were still infected districts. The value of the cattle slaughtered was £102 15s. 0d. ; £76 10s. 0d had been paid as compensation to owners, the expenses had been £48 6s. 6d., and the total cost to the Borough up to the present time had been £119 16s. 1d. The Ex-Mayor added that he was sorry to have such a bad report to present, but he believed the disease was now going away. He also stated that no compensation was paid for the cattle in respect to which Mr. Aston had been summoned and fined.

In answer to Alderman Lowndes, the Ex-Mayor said that a boast hail been slaughtered at Oakwood on November 1st.

This concluded the business of the Council, and the procession returned to the Raven Hotel. 

THE MAYOR’S DINNER.

Shortly after the return of the Council, a splendid dinner was placed upon the table by Host Everall, under the direction of Miss Everall, the room being neatly decorated and adorned with mottoes, such as ”Prosperity to the Corporation,” ”Success to the House of Forester,” ”Health and Happiness to the Borough and County Members,” &c. The chair was occupied by the newly-elected Mayor, and the vice-chair by the Town Clerk. The Mayor was supported by A. H. Brown, Esq., M.P., C. T. W. Forester, Esq., M.P., the Rev. F. R. Ellis, M.A., Vicar of Wenlock; A. Chichele Plowden, Esq., Recorder of Wenlock; J. P. G. Smith, Esq, Sweyney Cliff ; and T. H. Thursfield Esq., Ex-Mayor ; and those present besides were Alderman W. Layton Lowndes, T. Instone, E. W. Smith, J. A. Anstice, and R. T. Davies ; Councillors R. E. Anstice, E. Burton, J. Burroughs, E. Roden, E. Instone, J. Bodenham, H. M. Bathurst, W. Y. Owen, R. Cooper, and P. Everall; Mr. F. H. Potts, Broseley ; Mr. tr. H. Baker; and Mr. Hartland, borough treasurer.

On the removal of the cloth, the Mayor briefly gave the usual loyal toasts, which were duly honoured.

The Mayor next gave ”The Bishop and Clergy of the Diocese, and the Ministers of other Denominations,” expressing their appreciation of the disinterested and ardour labours of the ministers of the Church of England and other denominations.

The Rev. F. R. Ellis, whose name was coupled with the toast, briefly responded, expressing the pleasure he felt at attending these gatherings. Nothing could be better than the bringing together of the clergy, and as often as possible.

Alderman Lowndes, in proposing the Army, Navy, and Reserve Forces, humour• ousty referred to the battle of the big guns and armour-plate. He then spoke of the two reverses sustained by the British army in Afghanistan and in Africa, the first of which had been wiped out by the brilliant march of General Roberts from Candahar to Cabul, and the other doubtless would have been reversed but for the action of the Government. In speaking of the Volunteers, Alderman Lowndes referred in most complimentary terms to the recent appointment of Mr. J. A. Anstice as Colonel of the First Battalion S.R.V. He coupled with the toast the names of Colonel Brown and Lieutenant-Colonel Anstice.

Colonel Brown briefly responded, as did Lieutenant-Colonel Anstice, who remarked that the Volunteer force was peculiarly constituted, as they could only be called out in case of invasion. He was sure the Volunteer force would not be found wanting if called upon, and had every confidence that the rank and file would follow good officers wherever they might be led. In conclusion he thanked Mr. Lowndes for having spoken of him personally, and said he would endeavour to fulfil to the best of his ability the duties of the office to which he had been elected (cheers).

Mr. J. P. G. Smith proposed ”The Lord Lieutenant and County Magistrates,” coupling with the toast the name of Mr. Lowndes, who occupied the high position of chairman of the quarter sessions. He had no doubt that those persons who came under their notice received the justice they deserved (laughter).

Mr. Lowndes, in response, referred to the mutual advantage of their large borough being connected for several purposes with the county.

Mr. Plowden, in a humorous speech, proposed ”The Borough Members,” referring to the advantage they had in the divided state of their representation in their having representatives to put before them both sides of the question. (The toast was drunk with loud cheers.)

Mr. Brown, M.P., after a few preliminary remarks, referred to what would be the first duty of Parliament. when it would meet in January, expressing the contempt and disgust he felt in looking heat on the walks through the lobbies daring the last session caused by obstructive pieties if 14 or 15 Irish members, though he thought their Conservative friends were unduly backward in helping them, and especially the members of the Fourth Party, including Lord Randolph Churchill. He hoped the party would not be split up into small sections, and that it would result in obstruction when Parliament met. A great deal had been said about local taxation, and it was thought that a good deal of what was called local burdens should be shifted to the imperial funds, hat I he would remind then that if We were so, not only the expense but the power connected with the administration of local affairs would be removed, and they would be governed by a beaurean in London, and they would lose that power of directing their own affairs which he admired as in the case of that Council, and he hoped they would not press for the change. Referring to Ireland, he said the question was of a very difficult and complex character. From the year 1800 they had been constantly perplexed with Irish grievances and Irish affairs. They had recently had brought forward a tremendous remedy, which could only be founded on one state of things, and that was that the freedom of contract which we enjoy in England has broken down, and under no other circumstances would such a remedy been justifiable, and he hoped it would be a measure of peace to Ireland. Coercion could not redress the grievances of the Irish, and the remedy was a proof to the Irish that the hand of justice in London means to do them fair play. Already we saw the advantages of it in the use which was being made of the Land Court, and before which the Land League influence disappeared. He hoped the measure would receive a full and fair trial, and it was encouraging that the province of Ulster bad taken so kindly to the Land Act. He thanked them for the manner in which they had drunk his health, and though there were many there who did not agree with him he felt a pleasure in expressing his opinions before them and would give every attention to any suggestion that might be made (applause).

Mr. Forester, M.P., begged to thank the company for the kind manner in which they had accepted the toast of his colleague and himself, and to Mr Plowden for the kind manner in which he had proposed the toast He could assure them that it was great pleasure to take wine with Mr. Brown at the table, though he was no less disposed to disagree with him on political matters when the cloth was removed. He was also obliged to Mr. Brown in that he was enabled to guide his remarks by what his colleague said and have a text from what was said by him. He then referred to some advice that had been given him at the agricultural dinner to the effect that be should have a couple of years under Mr. Thursfield to learn the art of farming and another two years under Mr. Brown; there was a consolation in that as it would prevent his having to seek their suffrages at the end of this term of the present Parliament, if it were not necessary for him to do so before (laughter). He then referred to the remarks of Mr. Brown as to the loss of time by the divisions caused in the last session by the Irish members and which occasioned the suspension of 40 members in one night. Referring to Mr. Brown on Lord Randolph Churchill he believed be had some sympathy with the Fourth Party himself, but they had heard from his remarks the gratification of Mr Brown giving them a leader in Lord Randolph Churchill. He had always thought that Sir Stafford Northcote was the leader in the House of Commons and Lord Salisbury in the House of Lords. In making the charge against the Conservatives of obstruction, Mr. Brown must have forgotten that it did not commence in the present session, but in the previous Parliament where no greater obstructions than Mr. Chamberlain and Sir Charles Dilke, now members of the present Administration. The speaker then referred to the measures taken to prevent obstruction in the last session, particularly with regard to the proposal to take the estimates after a certain times without debate, and hoped what was proposed to be done would not be depriving them of freedom of debate. He proceeded to refer to the previous speaker’s remarks on the Laud League, which he thought would have been better appreciated if they had been made at the last Mayor’s dinner, and proceeded to remark on the Sir W. Vernon Harcourt’s dull amusement of flogging a dead horse, by laying the blame of the African matter on the Conservatives. He said that the position was precisely the same before as after the disaster at Majuba Hill, then why on earth were Sir George Colley and his command allowed to be massacred at Majuba Hill. Sir W. Harcourt quoted Scripture to the effect that righteousness exalteth a nation, but he should also have quoted the remainder of this text to give effect to the intention of Mr. Bradlaugh to take his Net at the next sitting of Parliament. He then referred to Mr. Brown’s long array of figures at the Agricultural dinner and expressed the opinion that anything could be proved by figures, and he believed be could bring figures in a week’s time to demolish his theories. For while the value of our imports exceeds that of oar exports we must be living on capital. It was no use “pop-shooting” the question as if it were not worth debating, for as Mr. Samuel Morly says, we must have some retaliation, and it is better to have a loaf at 2d. with the money to buy it than the same loaf at 1d. without the means to purchase it. The speaker concluded by again thanking the company lot the manner in which they had drunk the toast (cheers).

Mr. Brown next proposed the toast of the evening, the health of the Mayor, in doing which he referred to Mr. Maw’s public services to his own indebtedness to him on coming into the borough. (The toast ws drunk with three-times-three.)

The Mayor briefly relied, expressing his thanks and his endeavour to the best of his ability.

Mr. Forester proposed the health of the Ex-Mayor, to which Mr. Thursfield responded.

Mr. Forester also proposed the old Wenlock toast, ”Prosperation to the Corporation.”

Mr. Roden proposed the health of Lord Forester, referring to his long public services, and to his good qualities as a landlord, and said he had the figures in his pocket which would prove the fallacy of those quoted by Mr Brown at the agricultural dinner.

Mr Forester briefly replied on behalf of his uncle.

Alderman Smith proposed ”The Recorder and the Borough Magistrates.”

Mr. Plowden replied in a graceful and telling speech.

The Ex-Mayer proposed in eulogistic terms the health of the Town Council and other officers of the Corporation.

The Town Clerk and Mr. Hartland responded.

Mr. F. H. Potts also appropriately responded on behalf of the Clerk of the Peace

(Mr. E. B. Potts). The toast of ”The Press” concluded the formal proceedings, but a very pleasant after meeting was held.

BROSELEY.

BIRCH MEADOW SUNDAY SCHOOL.—The annual treat to the scholars attending the above-named school took place on Monday last. The children having been plentifully regaled with tea, cake, &c., the friends, numbering some 200, sat down to partake of the ”cheering cup.” In the evening a public meeting was held, presided over by the aged and venerable Pastor, the Rev. T Jones. The Rev. S Evans (Congregational Minister) also addressed the meeting. The following programme was given in highly creditable manner:—

Song—”The Festal Day,” Children.

Song—”Three small pieces.” Mr A Shinn’s Class. Recitation—”God will answer prayer,” M Davies, Song—”Sad autumn’s winds,” Mr A Shinn.

Recitation—”Forgiving Jenny,” B Wilkes.

Recitation —” Patty Green,” C Oakley.

Song—” Music everywhere,” Mr A Shinn’s Class. Recitation—” ‘The bereaved sister,” Mr E Griffiths.

Song—”Jesus loved the children Choir.

Song—”The child Jesus,” Children.

Recitation —”Poor little boy,” A Roper.

Song—”Round,” Mr Shinn’s Class.

Recitation—”Master and Slave,” E Eyre and H Hurdley.

Song“Rock me to sleep,” Children.

Recitetion—”Philoimpher’s scales,” S Hurdley.

Dialogae— Gratitude,” Three Boys and Two Girls.

Song-”Saviour, Shamed Saviour,” Choir.

Mr John Griffiths led the choir with his usual ability, and Mr James Roden presided at to, harmonium in an efficient manner.

THE WAKE--Sunday and Monday last, was the anniversary of the wake. Except a cessation of work on the part of many, there was indication of the ancient glories of the wake.

JACKFIELD.

On Sunday and Monday last some excitement was occasioned here by the report that a foreman tile-maker named William Hollis, in the employment of Messrs. Duncan and Hopley, had disappeared, taking with him the money with which he should have paid the persons under him, it being the “reckoning” and his having received the money from the office. The workpeople were paid by Messrs. Duncan and Hopley on Monday morning, but no tidings of the runaway have yet come to hand.

19^th November 1881

BROSELEY.

TUTE’S MINSTRELS.—This troupe of Christy Minstrels gave their excellent entertainment to a large audience in the Town Hall,

GRAND CONCERT.—A grand miscellaneous concert will be given in the National Schoolroom on Monday evening, the 28th inst., under the presidency of C. T. W. Forester Esq.. M.P.

26^th November 1881

SITUATIONS VACANT

ENCAUSTIC TILE LAYERS

WANTED about two or three first class workmen; none but steady and experienced men need apply.—J. C. EDWARDS, Penybont Works, Ruabon.

HIGH STREET, BROSELEY,

15th September, 1881.

THE Representatives of the late Mr. JOHN STEVENS beg to inform the Nobility, Clergy, Gentry, and Inhabitants of Broseley and its surrounding Neighbourhood, that they have, this day, disposed of the Goodwill, Stock-in-trade, and Boo Debts, (which have become due since the 25th day of June last) and the whole of the Formulae and Recipes belonging to, and used in connection with, the Business of a Chemist and Druggist, as carried on by the late Mr. John Stevens,

To MR. CHARLES WALKER BOTWOOD, and sincerely express a hope that the same liberal support, so generously given to the late Mr Stevens for 17 years and upwards (and for which the Representatives hereby return their most sincere and best thanks) will be accorded to his Successor.

CHARLES WALKER BOTWOOD M.P.S.

PHARMACEUTICAL CHEMIST BY EXAMINATION, Operative, Analytical, and Dispensing Chemist, and Dentist, in succeeding to the business, recently carried on by the late Mr. Stevens, has the honour to say that no effort will be spared by him to merit a continuance of that confidence which gained for his Predecessor so large a share of the support and patronage of the Public.

He respectfully begs to say that it will be his constant and earnest aim always to procure the best and purest Drugs and Chemicals feeling sure that the confidence of the Profession and of the Public can only be secured and maintained by a scrupulous regard to the purity of Medicinal Compounds.

Special personal attention will be given to the Dispensing of Physicians’ and other Prescriptions and Family Recipes, and only the latest and most approved methods of modern Pharmacies adopted to ensure perfect safety, accuracy, Red despatch.

Specialities will be made in many high class Proprietary Articles, compounded from the valuable Recipes of eminent Pharmacists. A liberal assortment of Surgical and Invalid appliances for the sick-room will be kept in stock. together with the leading and beet kinds of Foods for Infants and Invalids, Patent Medicines, Perfumery, Toilet and Nursery Requisites, together with all the usual Accessories of a select and first-class Pharmacy.

DENTISTRY, in all its branches, will shortly be added.

Any Article not in stock will be procured on the shortest notice, and with the utmost despatch,

In addition to haring passed the 3 Examinations  of the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain which constitutes a duly qualified Pharmaceutical Chemist, Charles W Botwood has the honour of holding a Certificate from the Examiners of the Apothecaries’ London, as a duly qualified Dispenser ; of being the Silver Medallist of the Westminster College of Chemistry and Pharmacy, for Organic and Analytical Chemistry, and the Silver Medallist of the same College for Chemistry, Botany, and Materia Medica.

BROSELEY.

MEASURING A WOMAN FOR A COFFIN.—Last week, a destitute old woman, an inhabitant of Broseley, died, and two able bodied dames started for Dawley to the parish coffin-maker to order her coffin. On their arrival at the latter place they discovered that they had gone without the measure; but on seeing a fine robust woman the two Broseley females expressed their opinion that a coffin which would contain the body of their new-found friend would be just the thing for the poor old woman at Broseley and accordingly the live women was measured, and the two Brosleyites went on their way rejoicing to the nearest pubic-house, where they freely indulged until they were inebriated. How they managed to get home again we have not been informed, neither have we heard if the coffin is a misfit.

INVITATION SUPPER—On Thursday evening, lest week, Mr Tedman, of the Pheasant Hotel, gave a first-class supper to his customers and friends, to which upwards of 40 sat down, under the presidency of Mr Marlow; Mr Watson occupying the vice-chair. The usual loyal and patriotic toasts were duly given and received and the health of the Host and Hostess were received with magical honours, Mr Tedman suitably returning thanks. Songs were sung by Mews Watson, A J Pountney, H Wood, R Cox, E Sherwood, Roper. Pinner, Marlow, &c., and a very pleasant evening was spent.

CONSERVATIVE MEETING.—We hope there will be a good attendance of Conservative friends from this district at the forthcoming meeting of Mr. Forester and his constituents in the Broseley Town Hall, on Monday, the 5th of December next, when the Right Hon. Lord Forester will preside, support. d by C. T. W. Forester, Esq., M.P., Colonel Fred Burnaby, R. A. Benson, Esq., &c., &c.

DEATH OT THE WALSALL BOROUGH ACCOUNTANT —Mr J L Murcott, borough accountant for Walsall, died at his residence, Littleton-street, on Thursday last week. Mr Murcott was taken ill about three weeks ago with a mild form of fever; this afterwards developed into gastric fever, to which he succumbed late on Thursday. He was appointed to the office of borough accountant in June, 1879, and since that time, we understand, he has performed his duties to the satisfaction of the Town Council. Mr Murcott was a widower, and has left three children to mourn his loss.

SUPPER—On Monday evening last Mr. J. D. Smith, of the King’s Head Inn., gave a supper to his friends and customers, to which about 50 sat down. A most substantial repast was provided, to which ample justice was done, and which reflected great credit upon the worthy host and hostess. After the cloth was withdrawn, Mr J Powell was voted to the chair, and Mr E Bates to the vice-chair, Mr Powell proposed the Queen and Royal Family, which was heartily responded to. Mr Bates gave the Town and Trade of Broseley, after which several songs were given by Messrs, Garbett, Bates, Tonkiss, Gough, &c., and a most convivial evening was spent.

LECTURE ON ” LIGHT” -Mr. Charles W. Botwood, M.P.S., of this town, will deliver a lecture on -” Light,” in the Broseley Wood Working Men’s institute, on Thursday, December 1st. The lecture will be illustrated by experiments, diagrams, and dissolving views. Mr. Botwood has delivered similar scientific lectures when residing in London. George Maw Esq , F.G.S., will preside on the occasion. The lecture being free, it is hoped the publics will recognise this fact by a large attendance.

3^rd December 1881

IRONBRIDGE.

STORM.—On Saturday and Sunday a heavy gale broke over this district accompanied with continual heavy squalls of rain. In many cases tiles and slates were blown off, large branches were torn from trees, and other damage done. The Severn rose rapidly, and has continued in a flooded state since.

CHARGE OF THEFT.-At the Police Station, on Thursday, James Gwynne was charged before T. G. Thursfield, Esq., with stealing a quantity of bottled stout, the property of Mr. Councillor Lister, at Broseley. P.C. Brew, who had charge of the case, asked for a remand till Tuesday next, which was granted.

BROSELEY.

LECTURE ON ” LIGHT ”.—On Thursday evening last Mr C Walker Botwood, M.P.S., &c., of Broseley, gave a lecture at the Mission Room in behalf of the Workman’s Club connected therewith. Mr G Maw, F.G.S., &c., occupied the chair, and there was a good attendance. The subject of the lecture was “Light,” which was treated in a scientific manner, and yet so ably illustrated and explained as to make it intelligible to the least capable of the audience, and the lecturer was frequently and loudly applauded. His remarks were illustrated with capital diagrams, exhibited by means of oxy-hydrogen light, by Mr Lawrence. At the close a vote of thanks to the lecturer was proposed by E W Shorting, Esq., seconded by the Rev. S Evans, and carried with acclamation, and Mr. Botwood appropriately responded. A vote of thanks to the chairman was proposed by Mr Alderman Nicholas, and seconded by H P Dunnill, Esq. In response Mr Maw referred to the great pains that must have been taken by the lecturer, and the clear and lucid manner in which the subject had been treated. We regret the late period of the week at which the lecture was held, and a crowd of matter, prevents our giving a synopsis of a most excellent lecture.

ACCIDENT AT THE GAS WORKS.- On Friday night last week, the holder at the Gas Works, then in use, suddenly gave way, the pillar supports, &c., being broken. The amount of gas in the holder was sufficient to meet the requirements for the evening, and efforts were at once made to put the large holder under repair into an effective state for the public convenience, and in this the officials of the company were tolerably successful. Immediate means will of course be taken to make good the damage.

10^th December 1881

BROSELEY.

George Maw, Esq., F.G.S., has kindly presented to the Working Men’s Institute a series of finely-executed map’s, botanical. geological and geometric charts and diagrams, all mounted and glazed. The whole sixteen were hung up in the room on Wednesday evening, covering all the available space. The members present were greatly pleased with the valuable and thoughtful gift.

ACCIDENT. —On Wednesday evening a little boy named Taylor was run over by a horse and cart belonging to Mr Cullis, baker, and driven by one of his employees. The poor lad bad his arm broken and was badly cut about the head.

On Monday evening last, as a vehicle carrying two lady visitors to Willey Park from the Ironbridge Station was passing near the ”Catch-gate ” one of the horses suddenly fell dead.  The vehicle was from the Tontine Hotel, Ironbridge, and the horse the property of Mr Henry Williams, grocer and poulterer, Ironbridge. The ladies who were walked to the Lion Hotel where were quickly provided with a fresh conveyance by Mr J Instone, and accomplished the remainder of their journey without accident.

The mildness of the weather here is shown by the fact that numbers of spring flowers are in bloom in the gardens, and in the woods around violets and primroses are quite abundant.

JACKFIELD.

MELBOURNE EXHIBITION--Within the past few days the silver Medal awarded to Messrs. Craven, Dunnill, and Co. has arrived. The award was for the first order of merit in tiles, and, in addition to the medal, two diplomas have been given to the firm for the excellence of their productions.

CHURCH MISSIONARY MEETING.—The annual Church Missionary Meeting was held on Tuesday evening last in the Parish Schoolroom. The Rev. E. Lloyd Edwards occupied the chair. The Rev. D. T. F. Macleod, Rector of Hope (Salop), and formerly Rector of Chippawa, Cananda delighted the audience with a very interesting account of his work in that part of the world. The collections, which were on behalf of these Missions, were satisfactory. A hearty vote of thanks to the speaker was proposed by Mr. J. R. Humphries, seconded by Mr. William Burroughs, and unanimously accorded, bringing this interesting meeting to a close.

BROSELEY.

LOCAL BOARD MEETING.—STORMY PROCEEDINGS.

The ordinary meeting of the Broseley Local Board was held on Wednesday evening last at the Town Hall. There were present-Mr. T. G. Thursfield (chairman), Messrs. W. Burnet, H. P. Dunnill, J, C. W. Lister, R. Rushton, H. M. Bathurst, R. Instone, and Peter Jones ; Mr. Owen Harries, clerk ; Mr. Ledger, Surveyor ; G. Stevenson, inspector of nuisances.

The minutes of the last meeting having been read, and confirmed, the Chairman said the first question arising out of them was

THE GAS QUESTION.

The following report was read by the Clerk:—

REPORT OF DEPUTATION APPOINTED BY THE LOCAL BOARD TO MEET THE OAS DIRECTORS.

Your deputation met the directors of the Broseley Gas Company on Monday evening, the 7th of Nov. 1881.

We placed before them our view of the question, which was this:—

The present charge per lamp to the ratepayers for gas lighting and repairs is £1 178 9d for each lamp per 1,000 hours.

The cost of lighting per lamp being under 6s 6d.

The repairs of each lamp, including glazing &c., under 2s, or a total of 8s 6d (we may add here that if the board had the lighting and repairs of the lamps in their own hands we believe the cost would be less than this 8s 6d,) leaving the balance of £1 9s 3d for gas consumed in each lamp for 1,000 hours, or taking the whole consumption per lamp during these hours, at the average —and this is a an average—of four feet per hour per lamp, be 4,000 feet, leaves the gas charged against the Local Board at the price of 7s 3d ¾d per thousand feet.

Now, the charge to consumers of over 200,000 feet per annum is at the rate of 4s per 1,000 feet.

The Local Board have it, the service of the ratepayers over 300,000 feet per annum, so that calculated on this scale the Gas Company are charging the ratepayers 13s 3d per lamp, or a total of £50 7s 0d per annum on the whole lighting, more than they would do if the Board were private consumers.

Ike charge to “separate small consumers” under which head the Gas Company contend the public lamps come, regarding as they do each lump a separate service, is be 5s 2d per 1,000 feet for cash or 5s 5d per 1,000 feet with credit ; so even in this latter case, calculating as above, they are overcharging the Board 7s 7d per lamp, or a total amount per annum against the ratepayers of £28 16a 4d.

The repairs may possibly cost more than we have put them at but the Board, and through them the public, will be surprised to hear that the Directors refused to give us any particulars as to the cost of repairs &c.. per lamp, at the same time stating (though they refused to produce any figures to substantiate their statement, or to allow, if they could present it, the Board withdrawing from its contract) that they had lost about 1s 7d in each lamp per annum.

We are sorry to add that during the full hour we were before the Directors, we failed to move them to make the least concession to the ratepayers—one of the gas Directors exultingly exclaiming that they had a monopoly

THOS GREVLLE THURSFIELD.

H. P. DUNNILL.

After the report had been read, Mr. Burnet said the figures given were quite enormous. The contract was that not less than four feet per hour should be supplied, but really they delivered more than six feet. The Gas Company did not wish to be misrepresented before the public as they had been, and he might say that they had no such price as is per thousand.

The Chairman said they wore not going to re-open the question again.

Mr. Burnet and Mr. Lister said the figures in the report were a very gross misstatement. They were charging 1s 6d per lamp less than their lowest neighbours, and they were losing 1s 7d by every lamp, and Mr. Burnet added that if the Gas Company chose to give a special rate to same particular consumer, it was a very great breach of confidence, and not done by business men.

The Chairman said they had a calculation on the highest rate charged and there was an overcharge of £28.

Mr. Jones suggested that meters should be used.

Mr. Burnet said the public lights were not as those of large consumers. They were a conglomeration of small consumers, and they had no cheek. If there was an escape in a private consumer’s house it was at once reported, or if it was before it entered his meter they soon found it out; but with the public lights it was different.

Mr. R. Instone said the figures were incorrect.

Mr. Burnet said it appeared the deputation wanted to examine the Gas Company’s books.

The Chairman here intimated that the discussion must cease.

Mr. Lister: You are not going to stop the discussion—you are not the Board. Do you think we are like children to come here and be told we are not to speak. I am surprised at you.

Some sharp conversation ensued in which Mr. Dunnill said it would be better for Mr. Burnet not to impugn the motives of any gentleman on the Board. What he did was in interest of the ratepayers.

Mr. Burnet said what they meant to have was fair play for the Gas Company on the Board,

The Chairman several times wished the question to be closed, as the Board was bound by the present contract and it was no use going into the past, but the discussion continued, Mr. Burnet pointing out that at Bridgnorth the charge was £2 6s 0d per lamp ; Wenlock over £2 ; Shifnal, £2 6s 0d ; and St. George’s (where the inspectors cleaned the lamps) £2 0s 3d.

Mr. Lister said no one but Mr. Dunnill had complained that he had ever heard of.

Mr. Jones spoke of the gas going out frequently and to the lamps not being lighted.

Mr. Burnet said, in answer to the chairman as to why if they lost by it the Gas Company would waive the contract, that the contract had been partially completed, but there was no mention of that in the report of the deputation.

Mr Instone: The question is are we charging The than our neighbours ?

The Chanman : We say you are charging the Board considerably more than you are private consumers.

Mr. Burnet said they were reckoning on private contracts.

Mr. Dunnill said from the printed statement of the Company in his hand it was clear the highest price charged was 5s 5d per thousand, and the lowest on the list was 4s 7d ¼d. The Board was charged 7s 7d ¾d.

They contended that the ratepayers do not get more than four feet an hour. They do not wish for more, and four feet leaves a large margin for lighting and repairs. The contract binds the Gas Company to four feet per hour, and he contended that the Gas Company could not prove that they supplied that much. He had a letter from the Mayor of Wakefield, where the gas was supplied at 2s 6d per thousand. The consumption per lamp was reckoned at 3 feet per hour, and a much better light at that than they had at Broseley, and therefore he would challenge the directors to prove that they supplied four feet. if they could do so. He thought it was useless going back. They were bound by their contract for the remainder of the season. At Chesterfield cost was 3s 3d per thousand ft and a Wakefield as he had said they are better lighted with three feet per hour than at Broseley.

Mr. Lister: Why don’t you go to our neighbour ?

There was no use in going back to the past, but with regard to the future they might do something. The Town Clerk of Chesterfield had written to him that in consequence of the sordid spirit and highhanded policy of the Gas Company, the Corporation, being supported by the ratepayers, had thrown them up, and lighted the streets with the electric light on the Brush system, and the narrower places with oil, which was more effectual, and cost £100 for the season less than the gas. He would propose that a committee of three members should be appointed to make enquiries, with the view of an efficient and economic lighting of the streets of the town.

Mr. Lister said the Gas Company had a grip upon the ratepayers, being formed for their benefit, and as regarded profit the Company was at a loss of 1s. 7d. by every lamp.

Mr. Burnet said it was absurd of Mr. Dunnill to compare such a town as Wakefield, where they would use more gas in one street than all Broseley altogether. Let him take Wenlock and Ironbridge, and other places, and he was sure the lighting of Broseley would compare very favourably with the lighting of many of the places around. All comparisons should be made in fairness, and to compare Wakefield with Broseley was like comparing a pigmy with a giant.

Mr. Dunnill said at the rate of 5s. 6d. per thousand, £1 1s. 8d. is charged to the ratepayers for lighting, and that leaves the very good margin of 16s. for lighting and repairing the lamps ; and he would go further, and say that at the rate charged to consumers of over 60,000 feet, according to their printed statement, and the charge to the Local Board was undue, unfair, and extravagant. But unfortunately they had an undue preponderance of gas directors and shareholders on the Board. The committee had acted with all fairness and they believed they ought to have a more efficient lighting at a less  cost.

Mr. Burnet said the cost of the gas was not correctly stated, being £1 2s. 6d

Mr. Dunhill retorted that it appeared Mr. Barnet’s and his arithmetic differed. Had they not better have a schoolboy in to solve the sum? He said they were charged £1 17s. 9d. per lamp, and that the cost of lighting at the rate he mentioned was 21s. 8d, and the difference between that and £1 17s. 9d. is 16s. 1s that right Mr. Burnet—was that right?

Mr. Burnet admitted this was so.

Then he said that the margin was an extravagant and exorbitant charge for lighting and cleaning the lamps. He was talking facts, and it appeared that after all his arithmetic and Mr. Burnet’s agreed.

The Chairman (to the ”gas” members) : You are not giving more than three feet an hour.

Mr. Burnet said they were only bound for four feet, but the fact is we give more than six feet; it was when the private lights were put out and the shops shut that the gas was consumed. They were obliged to keep up a pressure that would supply sufficient gas.

The Chairman: They used to take off the pressure when this time came.

At this point we can scarcely be expected to report what took place, as nearly every member of the Board was speaking at the same time in an excited manner, and,

The Chairman expressed the hope that they should not require the gas again.

Mr. Burnet said it was quite evident that it was not for the benefit of the ratepayers, but that the blow was aimed against the Gas Company.

Mr. Rushton referred to the non-lighting of a lamp near the Primitive Methodist Chapel.

Mr. Jones said some lamps were often unlighted in Jackfield.

After some further excited conversation, Mr. Dunnill said his proposition was that a committee should be formed to make enquiries as to the best means of providing the town with efficient lighting at a less cost. The gas supply during the present year was not more than three feet per hour. They could not go into details ; perhaps the result of the committees enquiries would be better for the Gas Company. He reiterated his resolution that a committee of three members should be formed to endeavour to see if the town could not be more efficiently and economically lighted.

Mr. Jones seconded the resolution.

Mr. Burnet wished to propose a resolution as to the gas question.

The Chairman ruled that he might negative the amendment, as it was an open one (he being a director of the Gas Company), and he proposed as an amendment that the committee be not formed.

Mr. Lister seconded.

After a stormy interval, the amendment was put, when Messrs. Burnet, Bathurst, Lister, and Instone voted for it.

Mr. Dunnill wished to point out that the gentleman who had voted for the amendment were three gas directors and one shareholder. It appeared that the Local Board was to be made a committee of the Gas Company. He called it a very ungraceful thing for these gentlemen to vote on the question morally, and more than that, he would ask the legal opinion of the clerk as to whether they could do so. It showed that they were afraid of au enquiry, and he appealed to the law as to whether they could stultify the Board by preventing an enquiry.

The Clerk referred to the Act, during which time the Board Room appeared anything but a seat of a deliberative body, the excited members talking all at once. Mr. Harries at length said that persons could not vote on any question in which a company to which they belonged was interested, but that in the case of water, or such companies this disqualification may be dispensed with by the Local Government Board.

The Chairman: The Local Government Board have not granted this dispensation to you gentlemen, and I am afraid the voting is all wrong (laughter).

Mr Burnet, on consulting the Act, could not show otherwise. He continued that it was improper to impute motives as Mr Dunnill had done to gentlemen whose endeavour it was to supply Broseley with good gas at the cheap rate.

Mr. Dunnill, after some conversation, said the only object of the opposing members was to ”burke ” this enquiry. He had said it was ungraceful in them to oppose it, and he had proved that it was illegal for them to vote upon it. He begged to propose his original resolution. This was carried, of course,

Mr. Burnet said all enquiries had been made in other neighbouring towns the Gas Company who were quite at capable of making enquiries as he was, with the result he had stated.

Mr. Dunnill’s only object appeared to be to put them by the ears (laughter).

Mr Lister: What is ”burking ?” I must confess to the want of knowledge of the English language. It was not he thought a proper Local Board expression (laughter).

The Chairman said it was so and was proceeding to explain the origin of the term, but his voice was lost in the turmoil of angry discussion. Mr. Burnet thought the gas directors, who were practical men, were quite as able to make enquiries as Mr Dunnill.

Mr. Jones thought the Board had better dissolve (laughter).

It was then proposed by Mr. Dunnill and seconded by Mr. Jones that Messrs. R. Burton, R. Rushton, and the chairman should be appointed the committee.

The Clerk said the disability only referred to voting, and Mr. Burnet proposed himself, Mr. Lister, or Mr. Instone as the members of the committee (loud laughter). They knew the business and would be quite as impartial and not so vindictive as Mr. Dunnill, (and added that the) resolution had been carried under false colours (laughter).

At this point Mr. Burnet took up the point made by Mr. Dunnill—that the resolution was an open one, and going over the ground again it was agreed to submit the resolution to the whole meeting, and accordingly the amendment was put, when Mesers. Burnet, Bathurst, Lister, and Rushton again voted for it. On the resolution being put, the Chairman, Mr. Dunnill, Mr. Rushton, and Mr. Jones voted for it, and the Chairman said he gave his casting vote for Mr. Dunnill’s resolution.

Mr. Lister (indignantly): I think time ought to be no casting vote (roars of laughter).

At this point Mr. Burnet pointed out that Mr. Rushton had no right to vote according to the Clerk, being a shareholder of the Company (laughter).

The Clerk said he might be on the committee.

In the course of the squabble which followed, Mr. Dunnill told Mr. Burnet he was talking random stuff, and was hardly ac-countable for what he said.

Mr. Burnet: I am quite as accountable, and quite as reliable as you.

In the few minutes that followed, Mr. Rushton, who is the postmaster left the room for a few minutes to see to his business.

during his absence

The amendment as it had then been arranged was then put—that Mr. R. Burton, the Chairman, and Mr. Rushton form the committee.

For this the Chairman, Mr. Dunnill, and Mr. Jones voted.

The resolution was then put—that Messrs. Lister, Burnet. and Instone form the committee—and Messrs. Lister, Instone, Burnet, and Bathurst voted  for it, and it was accordingly declared carried, but ere the Chairman could make the announcement, Mr. Rushton was heard returning at as reasonable a rate as a middle-aged gentleman could be expected to make up a steep flight of stairs, and his entrance evoked another outburst of laughter.

Mr. Dunnill rose to leave, and said if the Local Board was to be handed over to the Gas Company, it would be a question whether it would be worth while for himself and other gentlemen to attend, and if, as appeared to be the circumstances, the ratepayers were to be handed over to the tender mercies of the gas directors, they were in a very bad case indeed. He wished them all a very good evening.

To add to the irony of the affair, the next business was to sign and affix the official seal to the gas contract agreed to at the commencement of the lighting season.

THE SLIP AT JACKFIELD.

The Chairman said that effort had been made to stop the slip at Jackfield, and a certain amount of money had been spent, but that Messrs. Maw intended to let it stand for two months, to see if there should be any further slide.

Several members were of opinion that the slip would carry away the cylinders put in bodily.

At this point the Chairman left, remarking that he had tasted nothing since his breakfast, and he had wished to prevent any discussion on the gas question, in order that the water report might be properly considered.

Mr. Burnet was they voted to the chair.

THE WATER QUESTION.

The Clerk read the following report:—

Gentlemen,- In compliance with the resolution of the Board of the 2nd ult., we have continued the trial sinking. in Mr Burnet’s field at the Hay Cop, and we have pleasure in announcing that, as indicated in our previous report, we have succeeded the reaching the lower springs

At a depth of about 90 feet, after discharging a shot we find we have opened the impermeable clay and liberated the water contained in the porous rooks beneath, which subsequently rose to a height of 15 feet in the shaft., which appears to be its natural level

We have also opened a shaft in the same fault sunk some years since in a field occupied by Mr R Instone. It is 80 feet deep, and the water rises to a height  of 49 feat. This we think proves to demonstration that a plentiful supply of water is to be found in the Main Fault.

Having so far satisfied ourselves of the supply to be obtained from this source, we do not recommend the Board to continue the trial in Mr Burnet’s field. In our opinion the best course to pursue would to sink another larger shaft below the Down Well in the basin of the fault, near the junction of Mr Instone’s field and the field occupied by Mr Cleeton, where we have not the least doubt the largest supply will be found. At this point, if necessary, the overflow from the Down Well could be collected and stored, and both supplies pumped up to a sufficient height to supply all parts of the town.

We have had the Hay Cop and other waters tested for mineral impurities with the following results:-

DOWN WELL.- Iron, traces found; copper, absent; lead, none; line, none in quantity, only traces; hardness, very hard; sulphates, found probably existing as in sulphate of lime; chlorides, none.

MINE SPOUT.—Iron, found in considerable quantities; copper absent; lead, absent; lime, freely shown to test ; hardness, very hard ; sulphates, proved; chlorides, none.

WATER MARKED “R. Instone.”—Iron, only minute traces; copper, absent lead, absent; lime, present in larger quantities; sulphates, traces; hardness, minute in comparison to others; chlorides, traces probably from water passing through Magnesium stone.

HAY COP SHAFT.—Iron, minute traces; copper, absent; lead, absent; lime, minute traces; hardness, very low in comparison to two first; sulphates, traces, due to lime; chlorides, traces from above cause.

We are, gentlemen, yours faithfully,

WILLIAM BURNET,

RICHARD INSTONE,

PETER JONES.

It was decided to make the next meeting a special one to consider the question, and a cheque for £50 was ordered to be drawn for the expenses,

HIGHWAYS.

The Surveyor’s books were examined and passed, and a cheque for £20 granted for the current month’s expenses.

RATE DEFAULTERS.

The list of defaulters was produced, and the necessary order for proceedings to be taken given to the Surveyor.

17^th December 1881

IRONBRIDGE.

CAPITAL -Business Premises, in an excellent situation. HOUSE and SHOP, for many years in the occupation of the late Mr. SHINGLER and his representatives; also a good Malthouse on the Wharfage, capable of malting from 40 to 50 Bushels of Barley.—FOR particulars apply to Mr. RODEN, Benthall

BROSELEY.

TO BE LET that compact little HOUSE the Globe Inn in the same family 50 years; ingoing at valuation--Apply on the premises.

IRON-BRIDGE

CHARGE OF FELONY.- James Gwynne, basket maker, Broseley, was brought up on remand and charged with stealing four bottles of bitter ale, the property of mr J. C. Waterloo Lister, at Broseley, on November 18^th.- Henry Ashwood, servant to Mr Lister deposed that about half-past seven he saw prisoner in Mr Lister’s beer warehouse. He had three bottles of beer in one hand, and one in his pocket, and a piece of candle, which he had blown out. The bottles, which were now produced by P.C> Brew, were the same. When witness saw him he walked back into the saddle room and prisoner followed him with the bottle in his hand. He put hem and the candle on some bags, and the one from his pocket by the wall. Witness had a candle burning. He could see witness. He asked witness to lend him his candle, as he had lost his bodkin in the coach-house adjoining where he had been working. Witness lent him the candle and saw him look round, but he did not find the bodkin. Witness took the key, and went to close the door towards the street, and meantime defendant got away. His work the day before would not cause him to have any business in the warehouse.—Mr Powney, manager to Mr Lister, stated that he heard the last witness state when be found the prisoner. The prisoner had no business there. The value of the beer would be 3s. He saw nothing of the prisoner that night. He had been working there that day, and his business of the day before would not take him there.—P.C. Brew stated that on the 18th November, at ten o’clock at night, he received information of this case, and on the 22nd November he received a warrant for his apprehension. On the let December he found him in custody at Oakengates. When charged, the prisoner said ”I know as much about it as you do.” He has since been remanded.—The prisoner pleaded not guilty, and made a statement that he did not take any bottles of beer, and merely went there to look for a tool, and that the witness Ashwood never said anything to him.—The Bench sentenced the prisoner to 14 days’ hard labour.

Before the Mayor and Mr. Roden.

STEALING TROUSERS.—Sarah Sumnall was charged by P.C. Brew with stealing two pairs of trousers, the property of Mr Dickin, draper, Broseley, on December 6th. Abraham Beaman, lamplighter, said he lived at Broseley. On Tuesday, the 6th inst., about five o’clock in the evening, was standing by Mr Dickin’s shop, in Broseley. Saw prisoner pick up a pair of trousers from the shop doorway. She walked away, and witness went inside and told the manager what he had seen, and that if be did not follow her it would perhaps be laid on one who had never done it. Went with Mr Lewis in pursuit, and overtook her by the Market Hall. She said she had not got any, but could see them under her shawl. Lewis took them away from her, and told her be would make her remember it, She followed him, and asked him to forgive her. When they got back to the shop Lewis said there was another pair missing. Prisoner came down the street, and Lewis took the other pair from her, which she had under her shawl. —William Lewis, assistant to Mr Dickin, corroborated the last witness, and identified the trousers produced by P.C. Brew. The trousers were worth 5s 9d — P.C. Brew deposed to receiving information of the robbery, and to apprehending prisoner, on a warrant, on December 11th. Had her remanded on the fallowing morning. On apprehending her, she said she was quite innocent, and knew nothing about it.—Prisoner, on being charged, said she was quite innocent.—She was committed for trial at The Borough Quarter Sessions.

WILLEY-

SCHOOL  TREAT- —On Monday last the children attending the Barrow School were, by the kindness of Lady Forester, invited to Willey Hall, and partook of an excellent tea, with abundance of plum cake, buns, bread and butter, &e., and they enjoyed themselves to their heart’s content with the good things provided for them. It was a pretty scene, the children assembled in the servants’ hall around the well spread tables, waited upon by a number of teachers and friends. A dissolving view entertainment was afterwards given in the dining room by Mr. Lawrence, at which the children, with many of the parents and friends, were present. Lord and Lady Forester, the Rev. W. H Wayne, Mrs. Wayne, and other guests honoured the performance with their presence, which afforded considerable enjoyment and amusement.  Hearty cheers were given for Lord and Lady Forester on their entrance and departure from the room. The National Anthem was sung, and suitable refreshments were provided for the children on their departure.

24^th December 1881

THE CHRISTMAS SHOW.

In accordance with our usual custom we give below a brief notice of the Christmas exhibits made by the various tradesmen in the district on Thursday last, having unfortunately again to add that the depression of trade gives many of our readers but little opportunity of judging other than by sight of the quality of the goods shown.

BROSELEY.

Mr H Rushton exhibited one large heifer fed by Mr. Dicken, of Baschurch (14 score per quarter); a fine sucker fed by Mr Mansell, of Harrington ; a heifer fed by Mr Inions, of Shrewsbury ; a fine calf fed by Mr Thursfield, of Barrow ; two large wethers fed by Mr Wheeler, of Erdington ; two wethers fed by Mr Mapp, of Old Park ; five wethers fed by Lord Forester ; two porkets fed by Mr Thursfield; two bacons fed by Mr Thomas of Broseley ; one bacon fed by Mrs Corfield, of Broseley. The meat was nicely decorated.

Mrs Cartwright showed a large beast from Shrewsbury auction; a large calf fed by Mr Joseph Langford; fine sheep bred by Mr Owen, of the Marsh; and three porks fed by Mr Thursfield, of Barrow.

Mr A Burnett exhibited a fine heifer from the Shrewsbury auction; two large sheep; and two large porkers, fed in Broseley.

Mr S Davies showed a good beast, with several fine sheep, and some fine pigs.

Of the grocers, Mr I Powell had a very nice display of fine fruit and other goods suitable for the season, and were nicely decorated.

Messrs. Burnet and Son had some fine Christmas goods, and a large display of almanacs.

Good displays were also made by Mr H Instone (in fine fruit and Gilbey’s wines), Mr Humphries, Mr 8 Instone, Mr Mason, Mr Bunnager, &c.

Mr Plimley had a nice show of lamps and fancy articles.

Mr Wright also had a nice show of fancy articles.

Mr Callas had a large show of confectionary goods,

In the drapery business, seasonable displays were made by Mr I Watts, Mr Ledger, Mr Dicken &c.

Mr E Nevett and Mr J B Nevett had a good display of Christmas and New Year’s cards, and other fancy stationery goods.

Other dealers had also decorated their establishments, but we are unable to particularise them.

At Jackfield Mr. J. R. Humphries had a good display of grocery goods, &c.

At Coalport, Mr Smith and Mr Harper exhibited some capital meat.

BROSELEY.

CHRISTMAS CLOSING.- It is announced that the tradesmen of Broseley will close their shops on Monday and Tuesday next for the Christmas holidays.

”LONDON-PAST AND PRESENT.”— A lecture was delivered in the Town Hall yesterday (Friday) week by Francis Palin, Esq., in aid of the London City Mission. The lecture was illustrated by upwards of seventy dissolving views, by the brilliant lime light. The chair was taken by the Rev. G. F. Lamb, and there was a large attendance. A collection was made at the close.

AMATEUR THEATRICAL PERFORMANCE .A full report of this performance is unavoidably held over for our next issue.

UNIVERSITY HONOURS.—Mr W W Watts, B.A., of Broseley, St. Chad’s College, Denstone, Staffordshire, and Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, has obtained first-class honours in geology, in the Natural Science Tripos, at Cambridge, this month.

MADELEY UNION WORKHOUSE.

CHRISTMAS TREAT.

The joyous time of Christmas is looked forward to with pleasure not only by those who have all the comforts of ordinary life, but even by those unfortunate persons who inhabit our Union Workhouses. This may plainly be seen in the faces of the inmates at this time of the year, which are lit up with smiles in anticipation of delights which are in store for them. The occupants of the Madeley Union Workhouse are no exception to the rule, both men and women were reminded of the great festival which Christmas is to commemorate. The preparations which were made this year by Mr. and Mrs. Burdon (the master and matron) surpassed anything of the kind ever attempted in this Union, a proof that both had entered into the work of decorating the house with a full determination that so far as they could by assiduous labour, care, and feeling for the inmates, they would leave no stone unturned to merit success, and they accomplished their object, for this year’s celebration of Christmas festivities at the Madeley Workhouse surpassed all previous efforts ; indeed, we have it on good authority that Mr. and Mrs. Burdon have be been at work almost night and day in the effort to achieve success and give to the inmates such an opportunity to enjoy this year’s Christmas that would for a long time remain a Red Letter Day in their minds.

THE DECORATIONS.

The dining hall of the institution was very prettily and not too elaborately decorated with evergreens, &c., which bad been kindly supplied from Load Forester’s Willey estate. Over the stained glass window fronting the main entrance (the dining room also serving as the chapel) was a very handsome scroll bearing the inscription ” Unto you is born this day a Saviour which is Christ the lord,” which was tastefully surrounded by evergreens, as were also the reading desks on the raised platform. The principals of the roof were prettily festooned with evergreens, flowers, and berries, with which also the gas pendants were decorated. On the walls, also enclosed in frames of evereens, were mottoes, such as ” The Compliments of the Season,” ”God bless the givers of the Feast.,” ”Behold, I bring you glad tidings of great joy,” &c.

The taste and judgment displayed in the choice and adjustment of the decorations are highly creditable to Mr. and Mrs. Burdon, and must have cost them much time and labour.

THE DINNER.

The dinner took place on Monday last in the large and spacious dining hall. One very remarkable feature which could not fail to be noticed was the exceedingly clean and tidy appearance of the inmates, who numbered over 100, as they entered smiling, to take up their position at the tables. The whole of the arrangements for serving the dinner were complete in every particular. Mr. and Mrs. Burdon were ably assisted during dinner by E. Roden, Esq., J.P., said Mr. W. Y. Owen (Guardians), Mr. W. Lloyd, and Mr. Morris, Mr Samuel Fenton, of Madeley, always ready and willing to help any good object, rendered valuable service in cutting up the vast pile of the roast beef of Old England. After the repast was over, and address was delivered by the Rev. G. Wintour, who called for three cheers for the Guardians, for others who had contributed, and to the Master and Matron, who had so carefully and successfully catered for them,. Which were heartily responded to.

Mr W Y Owen also addressed a few words to the inmates, hoping they were having a Merry Christmas, and that they would enjoy a Happy New Year (cheers).

Mr. Roden said their meeting that day was a proof that the Guardians had not forgotten them, and to whom they owed a debt of gratitude, for it would be impossible to conceive what would be the amount of starvation which would exist were it not for such noble institutions as were now provided by the laws of the laud. It was a place of refuge for those who could not provide for themselves ; and it behoved them to show their appreciation of what was done for them by a careful attention to the rules of the institution, for they must bear in mind that in institutions of that kind it was necessary that a certain amount of discipline must be maintained, and though their Master might be obliged to speak harshly to them sometimes, they must pay respect to that authority, or the business of the House could not be carried on. They had also medical attention, and a fine hospital in case of illness, and also spiritual consolation, as was shown by the presence of their chaplain there that morning. He would remind them that this was done at the expense of the ratepayers, many of whom were in little better position than themselves, but who endeavoured to maintain their position as well they could. As regarded the Guardians they had several interests to respect, the first of which was the wants of the poor in the House and out of it, and the interests of the ratepayers, which must be regarded. He had been a Guardian for many years himself, and must say that he had never seen anything in the House or the treatment of the poor to complain about (loud cheers).

By the kindness of Mr. G. Maw (Benthall Hall) tobacco was distributed to the men and tea to the women; while Mr. Procter presented personally oranges, sweets, toys, &c., for the children and adults Mr. Alderman Smith also presented oranges and nuts and altogether the inmates had a very enjoyable time.

BROSELEY.

Christmas PARTY.- On Friday, last week,  a Christmas party was held in connection with the Broseley Church Sunday School. Among those present were the Rev. A. H. Prior, W. Nicholas, Esq., J.P., the Misses Nicholas, E. B Potts Esq., and family. Mr. F. H. Potts and family, E. W. Shorting Esq.. the Misses Thorn, Mr. and Mrs, Baker &c., &c. The chief attraction was a magnificent Christmas tree which was beautifully decorated by the Misses Nicholas, the Misses Thorn, the Rev. A. H. Prior and Mr. H. Thorn. The tree was covered with suitable presents for the boys and girls, and when lit up was indeed a beautiful sight. The parents of the scholars were admitted to inspect the tree and the school room at five o’clock. At 5.30 the scholars assembled, when a number of songs and recitations were given by the children, buns, sweets, &c., were distributed to all. The prizes were given away by Mrs. Lamb, the Misses Nicholas, the Misses Thorn, and others.

CHRISTMAS AT BROSELEY.—The Christmas decorations at Broseley Church this year were very tastefully arranged and reflected much credit upon the willing and loving hands engaged In the work. There was good congregations at both services ; the morning sermon was preached by the Rev A H Prior, the Rector being absent conducting divine service at Linley, but he was able to return in time for the celebration of Holy Communion, The evening sermon was preached by the Rector, the Rev G F Lamb. The morning offertory being devoted to the poor of the pariah

NATIONAL SCHOOLS.—On Friday last week the annual distribution of prizes by Mr and Mrs John Pritchard took place at the above schools. This visit of Mr and Mrs Pritchard is looked forward to with great anxiety, and great preparations are made to make the respected lady and gentleman enjoy themselves As usual, the schools were prettily decorated, and reflect great credit on the teachers. Drawings in crayon and water colours, the work of the boys, were hung round the room, and received great praise from all present. The proceedings began in the Infant School, where Prayer-books were presented to the more advanced children, and a bun was given to each child. The principal event takes place in the Girls School. Here the boys’ in the upper classes were arranged, and in conjunction with the girls, they rendered several songs in a very creditable manner. On the tables the prizes were arranged and were distributed by Mr Pritchard. In the Girls’ School the needlework was the subject which the prizes were for, the two best receiving a very handsome work-box. In the Boys’ school the prizes were earned by examination in geography, grammar, arithmetic, dictation, spelling, drawing, and marks for good conduct and punctuality. The total number of marks attainable was 300, and the list below will show how keen the contest for the first prize had been. Mr Pritchard, having presented the prizes, said be was very pleased to meet them all once again and he hoped they had profited by the instruction given them. He had read the report which her Majesty’s inspector made upon the school last year. It was not a good one, but he (Mr Pritchard) begged the children, the boys especially, to work hard and do their duty while at school, and then a better report was sure to be earned He (the speaker) was glad to see such a nice display of drawings and urged the boys to cultivate the taste for drawing, as they would find it to be of great use to them, There were several works around them at which great skill in drawing was required, and be (Mr Pritchard) hoped that they would make themselves proficient, so that hereafter they might earn their living by skilful work instead of manly labour. Be wished them all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year: The Rector said it afforded him great pleasure to meet their friends, Mr and Mrs Pritchard, and he was sure all present would agree that they deserved a hearty vote of thanks for their great kind in giving such valuable prizes every year. He (Mr Lamb) hoped the boys—and the girls too—would remember the good advice Mr Pritchard had given them, and profit by it. He would now ask for three cheers for Mr and Mrs Pritchard. These were given with gusto; and Mr Pritchard, having thanked them, asked for three cheers for the Rector and Mrs Lamb, which were heartily given. Among those resent were the Rev. G F Lamb, Mrs Lamb, sen , Master E F Lamb, Miss Lamb, the Rev. A H Prior, W Nicholas, Esq., J.P., and the Misses Nicholas, E W Shorting. Esq., and Mrs Shorting, the Misses Potts, the Misses Thorn, Miss Colley, the Misses Thursfield, Mrs Baker and family, &c., &c. We give below a list of the prizes:- Girls’ School: Elizabeth Broadhurst and Mary E Griffiths, workboxes; Mary Garbett, “The tow sisters;” Carrie Burnett, “A needle and thread;” Jessie Burnet, “The Minstrel’s daughter;” Emma Oakley, “Labours of love;” Margaret A Birch, “Madge and her friends;” Beatrice Wilkes, “Marion’s two hours;” Louisa Lloyd, “Little Flotsam;” Alice Wilkes, “Taken up;” Alice Evans, “ The King’s Highway;” Carrie Ryalls “Vain ambition;” Sarah Oakley, “An Earl’s Daughter;” Gertrude Hartshorne, “Nonna;” Sarah A Bennett, “A father’s legacy.” Boys’ School: William Edwards (294 marks), “The Three Homes;” Thomas Roberts (293), “Schoolboy life and incident;” George Moore (292), “The story of two lives;” Henry Forster (291), “Adventures of working men;” Arthur N Dixon (290), “Philip Walton;” John Davies (290), “Up North; or, lost and found in Russia;” W T Hudson (289), “Afloat and ashore;” J W Pountney (282), “The Castaway’s Home;” S Ryalls (273), Max Wild, the Merchant’s Son;” Herbert Wilkes (269), “Lame Felix;” C E Harley (262), “Stories in a Fisherman’s Cottage;” W N Dixon *235), “Guiding Lights;” W G Hartshorne (220), “Willoughby School;” G W  Lloyd (216) “A candle lighted by the Lord;” E W Jones (212), “ At Home and Abroad;” J S Adams(209), “Oe hour week;” William Lees (177_, “Our Tom;” Thomas Ball (176), “Three wet Sundays.” Pupil Teachers’ Prizes: Annie Garbett. ” Wordsworth’s Poetical Works;” Sarah Davies, ”Wheeler’s Analysis of Old Testament;” Agnes A Scott, ditto; F A Evans, ”Colonso’s Arithmetic;” Lucy A Wase, ”Ross’s History;” Edith Pountney, ”Cornwall’s Geography;” K Shaw, ” Phillip’s Select Atlas.”

AMATEUR THEATRICAL PERFORMANCE.- Thursday evening last a performance was given in the Town Hall by the Broseley Amateur Dramatic Society. There was a good audience. The first piece was ”a Sparkling Legacy, or the Corsican Vendetta,” the title of which explains itself. The following wits the cast and the piece passed off most satisfactorily, and was loudly applauded:—Ursino (innkeeper), Mr E R Instone; Jacopon (his nephew), Mr W G Green ; Leoni and Rinaldini (Corsicans, and rivals for Ursino’s daughter), Mr J M Dodd, and Mr J Nicklin; Brigadier of Gendarmes, Mr P Scott ; Carbinneers, &c. The second part of the programme) was the screaming farce of “Cherry Bounce,” with the following cast::- Jeremiah Oldrents, Mr E R instone; Gregory (his servant), Mr W Close; Gammon and Spinage (farmers), Mr J H Smith, Mr G Davies, jun; Homespun (Gregory’s father), Mr W G Green; Doctor’s boy, Mr W R Shaw. This was also admirably performed, Mr Close’s ” Gregory ” being exceedingly good. We are unable to detail the performance, and can only say that it was very successful and reflected the greatest credit on the performers and the management. Songs were sung at the internal and at the close. The following comprised the orchestra:—First violin, Mr Crewe: second. Mr Bradburn; Bass, Mr Griffiths Clarionet, Mr H Wase; Picclo, Mr G Davis; Piano, Mr J Ellis.

THE CHRISTMAS SHOW.- We accidentally omitted in our notice of the Christmas show Mr. T. Instone, butcher, High-street, who had three very handsome beasts, and a large quantity of other well-fed seasonable meat. Our reporter called twice but was unable to find anyone in charge, and on a busy occasion forgot to notice the display. We also omitted one or two of the grocers, whose shops (it being the weekly holiday) wore closed prior to our representative’s visit.

OLD BAPTIST CHAPEL. —On Sunday last, two sermons were preached in the above Place by Mr. T. Baugh, of Wellington, subject: morning, “Christmas Carol,” evening.

CONCEALMENT OF BIRTH.

A girl named Mary Rowe is in custody of the police at her home at Shirlett, charged with concealing the birth of her female child while at the house of her master, S. Instone, grocer. It appears that the girl’s condition was known, and on her being taken ill on Wednesday evening Dr. Tailer was sent for, and he recommended that a woman should be sent for to sit up with her, which was done. On the following morning she was sent home, and on Mrs. Instone, who had her suspicions, searching the room she found the body of the child in a box. An inquest was held on Friday evening, when, after hearing the evidence of Dr. T. G. Thursfield, who had made a post-mortem examination, the jury returned a verdict that the child was found dead, and that it had had no separate existence. The girl will be brought before the magistrates as soon as she can be safely removed on the charge of concealment.

BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY

Before A Maw (Mayor). E Roden, W Layton Lowndes, G Maw, Esqrs., and Captain Wayne.

DRUNK  IN CHARGE —William Gentle was charged by P.C. Steadman with being drunk while in charge of a horse and van, between Ironbridge and Broseley, on Nov 8th. The policeman’s attention was called to defendant by his van being upset across the road. Defendant who did not appear, was fined 20s and 10s costs or 14 days.