Extracts from

The Wellington Journal

and

Shrewsbury News

1900

relating to Broseley and District

Broseley Local History Society

2004

20^th January 1900

SAD INCIDENT AT JACKFIELD.
FERRYMAN DROWNED.

A particularly sad incident occurred at Jackfield, a village on the banks of the Severn near Iron-Bridge on Monday. Mr. John Harrison, who has had charge of the ferry-boat plying between the Tuckies and the china works at Coalport for many years, was in the act of lighting his lamp on the boat when he fell into the river and was drowned. The body was washed away by the swollen waters, and has not yet been recovered.

CONCERT AT WILLEY,

A concert promoted by the Right Hon. Lord Forester (popular mayor of the borough of Wenlock) took place yesterday evening week at Willey Park, and the proceeds £61 will be devoted to the war fund. The magnificent hall was tastefully decorated with evergreens, and scores of little Union Jacks. The elite of the neighbourhood was present. It is a very long time since artistes of such conspicuous ability were heard anywhere in this neighbourhood; it was a great pleasure to listen to the concert, and undoubtedly every one of the audience left the hall highly delighted with what they had heard. The noble lord officiated as chairman, and having announced there would be some slight alteration in the programme, Mr. Vernon Powys opened the proceedings with a smart piano-forte solo, “Mazurka.” This gentleman also proved a very efficient accompanist. Miss Lorna Fielden sweetly sang the song, “Chanson de Barbeline,” which was followed with a selection from the string band, composed of the Hon. Mary Forester, Miss Vandaleur, Misses Barber-Starkey, and Mr. Parker-Jervis. It was an excellent performance. Mr. J. P. Knight then gave a capital rendering of “Queen of the Earth.” He was loudly applauded. One of the gems of the evening was the “Serenade” sung by Mrs. Alison Johnson, with violin obligate by Mr. Theo Watkis. This lady is the possessor of a strong soprano voice, which she uses with discretion and effect. She gave a brilliant display of vocalisation, and an encore was demanded. After a capital violin solo “Cavatina” by Miss Vandaleur, “There is a land” was rendered with artistic earnestness by Miss Sutherland, who was vociferously encored. The duet “I will give thee the keys of Heaven” was admirably given by Miss and Mr. Parker Jervis, who were encored. The comic song “It’s a great big shame” by Mr. P. Cotton, an excellent coster singer, “brought down the house,” and his encore song “Lucky Jim” concluded the first part of the concert. The second portion consisted of the following: - Piano solo, “Ballade in A flat,” Mrs. F. Southwell; song, “The Fairies’ Lullaby” (encored), Mrs. Alison-Johnson; selection by the band; song. “Coming back,” Miss Sutherland; reading, “The Soldier’s Wife,” Lord Forester; comic song, “I believe I could laugh all day” (encored), Mr. Dun-Waters; song, “Love song,” Miss Lorna Fielden song, “The Absent-Minded Beggar,” Mr. J. P. Knight. The large company joined in the chorus of this popular song, during which period the tambourine was being handed round, and a goodly sum collected. The singing of “God save the Queen” concluded a first-class concert. The company were subsequently entertained to tea by his lordship. The tambourine collection amounted to £14 10s. 9d. The total proceeds of the concert realised £84, including the collection taken at the supper on Monday evening. All the expenses incurred with the big effort are defrayed by Lord Forester—an example which others would do well to follow.

20^th January 1900

IRON-BRIDGE VOLUNTEERS OFF TO THE WAR.

The four selected Iron-Bridge Volunteers, Messrs. W. Edwards (Iron-Bridge), Hudson (Lightmoor), Fletcher (Broseley), and Boden (Madeley), were on the occasion of their leaving the town for active service in the Transvaal entertained to a grand dinner on Monday evening at the Three Tuns Hotel, Iron-Bridge. The catering of Mr. and Mrs. George Williams (host and hostess) was everything that was desired. The dinner was given by several gentlemen of the town, and the arrangements were excellently carried out by Messrs. E. S. White (hon. sec.), W. T. Chattaway, C. Beddard, J. Walton, and T. Pointon, who formed a committee. Mr. E. M. Webster presided, and he was supported by Captain A. B. Garnett, Mr. J. W. White, Sergeant-Instructor Kelly, and other sergeants of the company. The room was tastefully decorated with Union Jacks and suitable mottoes. There was a large company present, and when the cloth was removed, removed, the Chairman, in proposing the health of “The Queen,” remarked that she was the most queenly woman and womanly queen in Europe. (Applause.) She always sympathised with them in their sorrow and rejoiced with them in their joy, and he hoped she would be spared for many years to come. The company here sang the National Anthem. The Chairman then submitted the other loyal toasts. In proposing “The Army, Navy, and Volunteers,” he said they knew what the army was at present doing in Africa, and it was the best army in the world. (Applause.) With reference to the navy it was a good handle to the army. As to the volunteers, unfortunately, they had not been appreciated by the War Office or military authorities as they should have been, and those who were engaged with the volunteers knew what difficulty they experienced in getting along, but the Government would have to do more for them in the future. (Applause.) He believed that sooner or later they would all have to be volunteers, that was if this country was to fulfil its destiny, that it should be the peacemaker and the peacekeeper of the world. He considered they all should be ready to use the rifle when called upon. (Applause.) He coupled with the toast the name of Captain Garnett, who was received with loud cheers on rising to respond. He expressed himself pleased at being present on such an occasion. He considered the army had fought well, and he was sure that eventually their army would be at Blomfontein and Pretoria. (Cheers.) He was pleased to say that Major Anstice had offered to equip all the volunteers from the D Company who went to the war. (Cheers.) He wanted to go himself, but other people had chosen other ways. The Iron-Bridge Company were sending four competent members to the front, and what he knew of them he was sure Shropshire and England would not be ashamed of them, and that they would uphold the traditions of the “Men of Iron.” (Cheers.) He would ask them to remember that their honour was the company’s honour and also that of the battalion. He hoped God would grant them good health and safe return. (Applause) —The Chairman said they now arrived to the toast of the evening, the health of their friends and comrades who volunteered to go to the front, Messrs. Edwards, Hudson, Boden, and Fletcher, members of the Iron-Bridge Corps. (Applause.) He was glad they had got a send-off for them. He would say God bless their men, and give them a safe return! There might be a V.C. among them, and then they would feel proud of the Iron-Bridge Company. (Applause.) He concluded by making reference to the ambulance men who had already gone to the front. The toast was drunk in a bumper, and Mr. J. W. White sang the “Soldiers of the Queen,” the chorus being taken up with much gusto.— Lance-Corporal Edwards thanked those present for the kind manner in which they turned out to them that evening. He would say for himself that it was the proudest day of his life. (Cheers.) He should always endeavour to do his duty as an Englishman, and he was sure he would be backed up by his comrades who were going with him. (Applause.)— Lance-Corporal Stodd, in a humorous speech, regretted that he was beneath the standard which prevented him from fighting for his country. (Applause.)—Mr. Robinson recited “The Absent-Minded Beggar,” after which Captain Garnett referred to Corporal Gauton and Lance-Corporal Alcock who volunteered for active service, but owing to circumstances were allowed to remain at home a little longer.— Mr. J. W. White informed the meeting that it was probable Lance-Corporal Stodd would be accepted as an ambulance man for the front. (Cheers.) He concluded by expressing the hope that the heroes that evening would return safe. (Applause.)— Votes of thanks to the committee for providing the pleasant evening, and to the chairman and the host and hostess concluded the toast list. During the evening a collection was made for the four volunteers, which realised £4. Between the toasts songs were given by Messrs. H. Bartlam, H. Felton, H. Pellowe, and Hudson, Messrs. J. W. White and Robinson were the accompanists.

The Iron-Bridge Volunteers had a grand send-off to the front on Tuesday. The band met at the Market Place and played “Rule Britannia,” after which the five volunteers with Captain Garrett marched behind the band to the station to the strains of “Soldiers of the Queen,” followed by crowds of people, many of whom were visibly affected. As the train steamed out of the station, the band played “Auld Lang Sync,” and several friends of the men went as far as Shrewsbury with them.

2nd February 1902

A SHROPSHIRE TRAGEDY.

MURDER AND SUICIDE AT BROSELEY.

On Monday evening Mr. F. H. Potts (borough coroner) held an inquiry at Mr. J. Hinsley’s, Dean Corner Farm, Willey, concerning the deaths of Harriett Meyrick Edwards (single women) and her child, Charlsey Margaret Edwards, aged four years.

Mr. Edmund Hodgkinson was foreman of the jury, and Superintendent Walters represented the police.

George Edwards said he lived at Broseley, and was employed by Mrs. Dixon as general servant. The deceased woman was his sister, and was 22 years old last birthday. She lodged with Mrs. Lloyd, Foundry Row, Broseley. His sister used to work at the Benthall Potteries. Deceased was single, and had never been married. Her child was four years old last birthday, and was illegitimate. The letters produced were in his sister’s handwriting, and also the endorsement on the bundle of letters produced. The last time he saw his sister alive was on Tuesday at her lodgings, when she appeared rather low, but made no complaint to him. He had never heard her threaten to take her life or the child’s. He did not know why she was depressed. He knew she kept company with Henry Adams of Broseley, who was the reputed father of her child. He knew he paid for its maintenance. He had not seen Adams lately.

Ann Lloyd, widow, Foundry Lane, Broseley, stated that deceased had lived with her since September 1st last. On Wednesday evening, January 24th, she came downstairs with the little girl ready dressed. The mother did not speak, but the little girl said, “You’ve not got a nice little dress like me.” They immediately went out. Deceased had not been to her work that day and appeared to be low-spirited. Witness never saw deceased laugh. She used to complain of Harry Adams being bad, and it was on Monday night that he whistled her out, and told her he was going to the dancing class at The Cape. She believed he kept up his payments regularly— 2s. a week. Witness found a letter (produced) on a box by deceased’s bed-side, and another under her pillow. The following was the letter on the box by the bedside:— “Dear father and aunt,— When you get this I shall be dead, I am tired of life, and have been. I am sorry to cause you so much bother, but see to me being buried respectfully. I don’t want Aunt Hannah nor Rogers to follow me. I should like to be buried at Barrow, but wherever Harry (her young man) is buried put me with him and little Cissy. We shall take her, too— she will have no one to look after her when we have gone. Me and Harry have resolved to die together. Nothing to live for here. I can’t write any more. Tell poor old dad not to worry. I must close, and good-bye from Harriett.” Witness found another letter under the pillow, addressed to her, in which deceased wrote as to the disposal of her things, adding that she could never live without Harry. Harry and the child would go together, and that it would be all for the best. The woman was very fond of the child. Witness never heard her threaten to take her life. She had not so much as hinted at it. She never seemed happy. The glass produced belonged to deceased, who bought it filled with marmalade.

Francis Henry Martin, managing clerk for Messrs. Potts & Potts, solicitors, Broseley, said it was about quarter-past three o’clock on Saturday when he was walking along the coach-road in the direction of Willey. He turned into the path and saw the body of the deceased woman and a bundle by her side, at the foot of a fir tree. He noticed the woman and the child were dead, and a bottle was by the side of the mother. He saw nothing to indicate that a struggle had taken place, and there was no disarrangement of the clothes. Witness left the bodies and gave information to the police.

Eliza Annie Leadbetter, The Green, Broseley, deposed that she was a widow, and knew the deceased well. She saw the mother and the child on the previous Tuesday, and in the course of conversation deceased asked her to go with her to the Marsh Pool. Witness asked why she wanted to go there, and she replied that she wished to know the depth of the water. Witness told her that it was too wet, and they did not go. She said the water seemed to have a fascination for her. She again said, “Will you come?” and witness again refused. That took place in the dinner hour at the works. Deceased afterwards turned round, and in an excited state said she would go some day by herself and see how deep it was. They both returned to work. On Tuesday the deceased asked if she had been at the dance on Monday at The Cape. Witness replied. “Yes.” She asked if Harry Adams was there, and she replied that he was. She asked if he was with the Ball’s girls, meaning Holland Ball’s daughters. Witness replied he was not with any one particular, and that appeared to have greatly relieved her. She said she had been told Adams had been walking about with one of them. Deceased was very fond of her child, but she appeared to have something on her mind.

George Egglestone, chemist, Broseley, said Harriett Edwards came to his shop a week ago, in the evening, and asked for some laudanum. He asked why she wanted it, and her reply was that she could not sleep. Witness told her he could not supply it unless she brought a doctor’s prescription, and he did not supply it. She said they told her it was poison. Witness told the woman he could make her up a mixture which would put her to sleep, and she told him to make one. She said she did not know why she could not sleep He gave her a mixture, for which she paid a shilling. Deceased did not ask for any carbolic.

Superintendent Walters produced a bundle of letters, which, he stated, he had perused, but they did not implicate anyone. In reply to a juryman, witness said they could not find where the carbolic acid was obtained.

Dr. Boon, Broseley, said, he saw the deceased on Sunday morning, and examined the bodies. The woman had marks on her face and neck, and the tongue and lips were blistered, as well as the roof of the mouth, evidently caused by carbolic acid. He could not say exactly how long she had been dead. Her hands were clenched, and she must have experienced a great deal of pain. Poisoning in that way was a very painful death. The child was badly burnt over its face and neck—more so than the mother. Her left hand was also badly burnt. The hands were tightly clenched. He made a post-mortem examination of the body of the child, and found the body fairly well nourished. The organs were healthy, but there was a fair amount of gas in the stomach. The child had evidently swallowed some carbolic acid. The cause of death in each case was carbolic acid poisoning.

In summing up the Coroner remarked that the girl no doubt was very much in love with the man Adams, and perhaps it was not returned in the way she would have liked, and that caused her mind, to a certain extent, to become unhinged. She showed it for some time. Adams had evidently paid regularly towards the child’s keep. The coroner then referred to the letters, and said he had issued a subpoena for Adams’s appearance at the inquest, but he had gone away, and the police were not able to serve him. Now they had heard the evidence he did not think it was very important for the man to attend, but at the same time he should have put in an appearance at the inquiry, and acted like a man.

The Foreman— No doubt he is the root of all the evil.

The verdict of the jury was that the child was wilfully murdered by her mother, who afterwards committed suicide whilst temporarily insane.

2nd February 1902

MUCH WENLOCK,

PETTY SESSIONS.— TUESDAY.

Before Col. Wayne (chairman), Messrs. T. H. Thursfield, J. Bodenham, T. Cook, and W. G. Norris.

A WARNING.— Henry Reynolds, Broseley, was charged with keeping open his refreshment house after time.— Police-constable Roberts stated that on the 6th of January about 11.30 p.m. in company with Sergeant Bowen he saw several men and two women in Reynolds’s house at the back of High Street, Broseley, being supplied with chipped potatoes. It was a licensed refreshment house and should be closed at 11 o’clock.- Defendant pleaded ignorance, contending that he did not know he was to close at 11 o’clock.— The case was dismissed on payment of costs.

17^th February 1900

BROSELEY SANITARY AUTHORITY,

The usual monthly meeting was held on Wednesday; present:— Aldermen G. H. Maw and J. A. Exley, Councillors P. Jones, W. Mear, E. G. Exley, and R. A. Instone, Messrs. G. C. Cooper (town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor and inspector), and J. Dixon (rate collector). In the absence of Councillor Prestage, Alderman Maw was elected chairman of the meeting.

RESIGNATION OF CHAIRMAN.— A letter was read from Councillor Prestage asking the committee to relieve him of his position as chairman owing to his being unable to find time to perform the duties of the post.— At the unanimous request of the committee the town clerk was requested to write Mr. Prestage and ask him to re-consider his decision.

FINANCIAL.— The Collector reported that he had paid in £44 9s. since the last meeting on account of the second instalment of the rate, and he was instructed to take proceedings against defaulters.— The Town Clerk reported a balance in hand of £112 7s. 2d., out of which cheques were drawn for £62 5s., including one for the surveyor for £30.

NEW RATE.— The Town Clerk produced his estimate for the year commencing 1st April as follows:— Salaries £95, less re-payment by County Council of moiety of inspectors’ and medical officer’s salaries £15; district roads, £150; street works and improvements. £55; sewage and scavenging, £35; water supply, £25; lighting, £200; establishment, £25; Burial Board, £25; repayment of principal and interest on loans, £345; miscellaneous, £25. He also stated there would probably be a debit balance at 31st March of £29, leaving £994 to be raised by rate. A rate at 2s. 4d. would produce about £980.— On the proposition of Alderman Maw, seconded by Alderman Exley, the estimate was approved, and a rate at 2s. 4d. in the pound was ordered to be levied, an increase of 7d. as compared with last year.

17^th February 1900

JACKFIELD.

ACCIDENT.— On Monday a serious accident occurred to a man named Samuel Evans, employed at Messrs. Maw’s siding signal box. Whilst he was engaged in shunting operations, he fell down one of the coal shoots alongside the works, inflicting serous injuries to his spine, and causing slight concussion of the brain. First aid was skilfully rendered by several local members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, and Dr. Webb immediately wired for, who, after examining the unfortunate man, ordered his immediate removal to the Salop Infirmary.

17^th February 1900

BROSELEY

JAMES DAVIES buys Old Oak and Mahogany Furniture, in any condition, for cash or exchange. Best prices given for Old Silver and Curios —King Street, Broseley.

LECTURE. — Under the auspices of the County Council, Mr. W. F Burgh gave the last of a series of addresses on “Poultry-Keeping.” on Wednesday evening.

P.W.E. ADULT BIBLE CLASS. — On Wednesday the usual meeting was held in the Broseley Congregational Chapel, when the Rev. R. Wilson gave a capital address on “Forgiveness.”

SERVICE OF SONG— On Wednesday the members of the Wesleyan Band of Hope gave a service of song, illustrated with lantern views, in a highly creditable manner. Mr. J. E. Hartshorne presided, and Mr. J. J Young gave the connective readings. There was a fair attendance.

P.S.A.— On Sunday the usual meeting of this class was held in the Wesleyan Chapel, under the presidency of Mr. J. E. Hartshorne. An address was given by Mr. Gilpin of Iron-Bridge on “The Courtship and Marriage of Isaac.” Mr. A. Taylor rendered a solo, “The Model Church,” whilst a reading, entitled “The Story of a Crime,” by Mrs. Taylor was much enjoyed. There was a good attendance. Mr J. A Hartshorne presided at the harmonium

ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH— On Sunday special services of intercession for the soldiers and sailors of her Majesty’s forces now in South Africa were held in the Parish Church. The Rector (the Rev. G. F Lamb, M.A.) preached, and the lessons were read by Mr. H. E Clarke. Mr. Theo. Watkis presided at the organ. There were good congregations.

THE SCHOOLS.— The report of her Majesty’s Inspector of Schools, in respect of the boys’, girls’ and infants’ departments, shows that these schools maintain their high standard of efficiency, each department having gained the highest grant in the schedules, and the schools are exempt from the annual inspection. The inspector states that the order of the schools is good and the general condition satisfactory, the children being well taught.— The report of the Broseley Wood School is equally satisfactory, the highest grants having been awarded; and the inspector considers that, the children of this school are in good order, and the teaching careful and intelligent.

FANCIERS’ SOCIETY’S MEETING.— The annual meeting of the Broseley and District Fanciers’ Society was held at the Town Hall on Wednesday, when Mr. F. H. Potts presided. The statement of accounts presented by the Secretary (Mr. T. Jones) showed the receipts to be £99 9s., and after defraying expenses there remains a balance of £17 14s. 10d. The statement of accounts was passed and ordered to be printed.— Mr. Exley proposed, and Mr. Smith seconded, that Mr. A. Burnett be thanked for the use of the Memorial Ground. This was carried.- Mr. C. S. Smith remarked that the secretary had carried out his work in a most successful manner; in fact he had done what they thought was impossible for one man to do. Therefore he proposed they vote him three guineas for his excellent services.— Mr. Onions seconded the proposition, which was carried unanimously.- The following officers were then elected:— President, Mr. F. H. Potts; vice-presidents, Drs. Boon, Dyson, Fox-Edwards, Messrs. G. H. Maw, E. G. Exley. and A. G. Lascelles; joint secretaries, Messrs. T, Jones and T. Francis; hon. treasurer, Mr. G. Potts; hon. auctioneers. Messers. J. D. Benbow and Son; committee, Messrs. S. Hill, G. Eggleston, J. Ledger, J. H. Matthews, E. Davies, S. A. Powell, H. Onions, P. Scott, C. Smith, R. A. Instone, J. Ibbetson, E. Oakes, R. D. Haughton, E. G. Exley, C. A. Potts, and J. Davies. Votes of thanks were accorded to the past officers and chairman.

IRON-BRIDGE.

ACCIDENT.— A young married man named Richd. Garbett was on Wednesday engaged shunting at the railway station, when he was kicked by the horse, and his left arm was broken

THE WEATHER.- Fearful weather has been experienced in this district this week. All outdoor work is suspended, and some of the roads are quite impassable. The Severn is expected to be flooded, which is dreaded by some of the inhabitants.

PETTY SESSIONS.— TUESDAY.

Before Lord Forester (Mayor), Col. J. A. Anstice, Alderman A. B. Dyas, and Mr. G. H. Maw. Capt. Williams-Freeman was also on the Bench.

A GROCER FINED.— Jonas A. Burnett, grocer, Broseley, was charged with delivering bread without being provided with scales and weights. Sergt. Roberts stated that he saw defendant’s boy delivering bread at Linley without weighing it. He had seen the defendant, who pleaded ignorance.- Fined 5s. and costs.

3^rd March 1900

DROWNED IN THE SEVERN AT
JACKFIELD.

Mr. R. F. Haslewood (coroner) held an inquest at the Hop Pole Inn, Bridgnorth, on Monday afternoon, touching the death of John Harrison (72), a bargeman, and for over 20 years ferryman at Jackfield, whose dead body was recovered from the Severn at Bridgnorth on Saturday.- Evidence of identification having been given, Jane Ellen Blocksidge school teacher, said she saw the deceased on the last January endeavouring to affix the lamps to the mast of the boat, when he staggered backwards and fell into the river.- Henry Wild said he was taking the boat across the Severn at the time; he saw Harrison fall into the middle of the current. The water was high, and the stream took him away at once. Witness ran down the shore, and saw deceased’s hands disappear. It was impossible to rescue him, there was no boat near, and a man could not swim to him.- William Henry Rogers said he saw a body in the river at Bridgnorth on Saturday. He pulled his clothes off and jumped in, swam 150 yards, and brought the body to the side. He had since found that it was the body of John Harrison.--Verdict “Accidentally drowned.” -The body was much decomposed, having been in the water 41 days.

3^rd March 1900

THE WILLEY BEAGLES.

The weather and the war have been most unfavourably against the movements of the most improving young pack. It has been idle for many, many days, yet some of the choicer spirits of the field have had a few turns over the snow fields; hare and hounds lightly speeding over the snow and the drifts while the eager field found themselves up to their necks in snow, causing much merriment to their friends, who in turn paid the same penalty for their adventure. On the last day out in the snow they, after a clinking run, killed a good hare close to Barrow. On Tuesday the fixture was The Marsh, near Much Wenlock, where they had some fairish fun, but the weather was so outrageous that to defy it was impossible, and the retreat had speedily to he sounded.

On Thursday the meet was at Kitson’s, The Lodge, Broseley. The morning was not very inviting, still the faithful few were there to the moment, happily in clear weather. At the last moment Captain the Hon. G. Forester was called away to his military duties. Mr. Lascelles was engaged, so the master sent the hounds under the command of Fred Kitson, jun., who was most ably assisted by Mr. Tom Griffiths (Iron-Bridge), a born sportsman, and Mr. G. Potts (Broseley), who is as keen on sport as a hawk, and knows every inch of country on the Forester estate. We at once put in at there cover just on this side the Lodge, and soon heard here and there a whimper. They passed all along close up to Broseley Church, into the valley below, and for the Deer Leap, where they got on scent and raced past Mr. Reynolds’s, up the hill and round again for the Lodge. A slight check here, but hounds feathered nicely and soon recovered the scent and literally flew up the hill for Mr. Bishop’s (Barrow), made a turn to the right, and got on to Posenhall Farm. Here, hares being so numerous, the pack divided into three sections, Kitson and Messrs. Griffiths and Potts having a most difficult task to get them together again. Perseverance was eventually rewarded, and once more we were in hot pursuit, tearing away for Arlescott and far out of our sight indeed we had to pursue our chase, guided by the music of the excited pack. Coming round Mr. Wilkinson’s farmstead she made for the Marsh, doubled into Mr. Bishop’s pasture land, and there we lost her. Kitson put on again, and six got up in our midst, in a short time crossing and recrossing the road, so that the wisest were bewildered and perplexed. So after nearly four hours continuous walking and running a very good authority advised us to draw the hounds off a course that none opposed, for all had had enough.

On Saturday the trysting place was the residence of the master, Barrow, and all were pleased to see that he was able to have a day with his favourites and his friends. After giving a little law to absent friends a start was made in the field at top of road, drawing down hill for Shirlett. A very little time elapsed ere Kitson viewed, and tally-ho’ad a good one, who flew straight away, turning sharp to the left, and crossed Mr. Bishop’s pastures straight for Shirlett Wood, which she safely reached with pack in full cry close at her heels. Later on puss jumped up and re-traced her steps, going like mad up hill again for top of Barrow, wheeling to the left round for Posenhall. Passing the celebrated Rabbit Warren she kept to the left, crossing the road into a most beautiful stretch of country viewed from Bowen’s Gorse, looking over for Spoonhill and district. The hare, dead beat, passed Mr. G. Potts so near that he might easily have killed it. She struggled on, however, and richly deserved the trick she played us, for somewhere and somehow down the hillside she threw us out. Try whatever way we could, beating hedgerow, tuft, and gorse, we could not pick her up again, so reluctantly turned heads to try on our way home the Barrow fields again. The quick eye of Mr. Tom Griffiths discovered one in the feg, Tally Ho was the cry, and flying the fence the horsemen quickly got to the hounds, who were led by the hare into Shirlett Wood again and out up to Wenlock Road, returning into the Dingle where, do what we would, not a sign could we discover, so considering the lateness of the hour and the distance we had travelled, the master thought it best for all that he should draw the hounds, which he did, at the spot whence we had started in the morning. Amongst the field were Mr. E. B. and the Misses Potts, Mr. Tom Griffiths, Mr. G. Potts, Mr. Reynolds, Mr. and Mrs. John Maw (Severn House), &c. OLD SPORT.

17^th March 1900

Letters to the Editor

COALPORT FERRY.

To THE EDITOR. Sir,— Is it not a great pity that the people living on each side of the river do not take steps to supplant the dangerous and inconvenient ferries with wire-rope suspension foot-bridges? The sites are eminently suitable for such, and these bridges have the great advantages of being very cheap, and at the same time pleasing to the eye. Very many have been erected in this country and abroad— a good example being the one over the River Taff at Abercynon. This bridge is 160ft. span and 5ft. wide, and would cost about £310, exclusive of erection and approaches. If it is a question of acquisition of ferry rights, the case of Stapenhill Ferry, Burton-on-Trent, may be cited. There the greatly increased traffic, after the erection of a bridge to supplant the ferry, soon paid for the ferry rights and the whole is now free and open to anyone.

Wellington. FRANK NOAKE.

24^th March 1900

LOCAL GOVERNMENT INQUIRY
AT IRON-BRIDGE.

The Town Council of the borough of Wenlock having applied to the Local Government Board for the sanction of borrowing £23,000 for the purpose of a water supply for the Broseley and Madeley divisions of the said borough (including a construction of certain works in the parish of Sutton Maddock, in the rural district of Shifnal), Mr. H. Percy Boulnois, M.inst.C.E., inspector, held an inquiry at the Iron-Bridge Police Court on Thursday, when there were present.- Mr. Godfrey Cooper (town clerk), Mr. Geo. Stevenson (surveyor), Mr. T. S. Stooke (engineer), Mr. R. S. Clease (deputy clerk of the Shropshire County Council), Mr. Brevitt (town clerk, Wolverhampton), Mr. Woodward (water engineer, Wolverhampton), Mr. H. Nicholls (representing Mr. W. O. Foster, Apley Park), Mr, H. R. Phillips (clerk to the Rural District Council, Shifnal), Lord Forester (mayor), Colonel J. A. Anstice, Major R. E. Anstice, Alderman A. B. Dyas, Mr. W. O. Foster, Alderman J. A. Exley, Councillors F. G. Beddoes, D. L. Prestage, W. Y. Owen, R. F. Ayre, Messrs. Wyley (Bridgnorth), H. Boycott, E. C. Wadlow (Shifnal), G. H. Stevenson (Shifnal), H. C. Simpson (Horsehay), J. C. T. Raspass (Madeley), A. G. Lascelles (Broseley), E. F. Groves, A. Grant, A. Dixon, E. S. White, J. B. Dickin, C. R. Bartlam, W. Stodd, G. Gray, C. Smith, F. H. Potts, Dr. Gepp (medical officer, Shrewsbury), Mr. Hugh Griffiths (deputy surveyor, Madeley), and Mr. E. B. Potts (Broseley).

The Inspector said before they proceeded with the inquiry he would be glad to know if there was any opposition to the scheme.

Mr. Brevitt said that on behalf of the Wolverhampton Corporation, who were the owners of the Cosford Waterworks, which were within three miles of the proposed well, he appeared there that day in order to have an opportunity of hearing the evidence, and being permitted, if necessary, to cross-examine the witnesses, and to make observations on any statements they might make. He did not attend altogether as an opponent of the scheme, but simply to watch the interests of the Corporation of Wolverhampton.

Mr. Cooper said he did not know whether Mr. Brevitt was there to bless them or to curse them—(laughter)—but he did not quite understand what locus standi Wolverhampton had there at all, and still less to such an extent as to cross-examine the witnesses.

Eventually the Inspector said he would hear anything Mr. Brevitt had to say if it were relative to the point at issue.

Mr. Phillips said the works at Harrington were situated within the district he represented. He did oppose the scheme.

Mr. R. S. Clease said he was present simply to watch the proceedings on behalf of the Shropshire County Council.

Mr. Nicholls said he appeared to watch the matter on behalf of Mr. Foster (Apley), and later on might have some observations to make.

Mr. Cooper then opened the case for the Wenlock Corporation. He said the populations of Madeley and Broseley were 12,100. He appeared on behalf, of the Corporation of Wenlock to apply for a loan of £23,000. The borough of Wenlock was rather peculiarly constituted. It was divided into four sanitary divisions. Each of these divisions levied its own district rate, but was not able to enter into contracts or borrow money without the sanction of the whole Council. With regard to the state of the water supply in Broseley and Madeley, he would briefly relate what had already occurred, so as to emphasise the necessity of the present application. In 1893 Dr. Thursfield reported that an improved water supply was most urgently needed. Following on that report the Madeley Sanitary Committee took an engineer’s advice, and the result was that certain projects were considered, but as the Local Government Board considered them inadequate, other steps had to be taken. Eventually, an engineer was again called in to make a general report regarding the water supply of Madeley and Broseley, and Mr. Stooke (Shrewsbury) suggested three different sources of supply, and a pumping scheme was adopted. The well was situated at Harrington; in the parish of Sutton Maddock, outside the Wenlock district, and already the preliminary tests of its suitability and capacity had been made. A bore-hole had been taken to a depth of 432 feet, and the water had been found to be both abundant and good, more than sufficient for Madeley and Broseley combined. Terms had been come to with the various people affected, and no difficulty would be experienced in respect to that. As the mains from the well would go through a portion of the rural district of Shifnal, an agreement had been come to by which they would be supplied with water at 4d. per thousand gallons. They were of opinion that the scheme was in every way an admirable one, and for that reason they wished to borrow the amount stated so as to be able to carry it to its completion.

The Inspector—As regards these parishes in Shifnal rural district, they have to provide their own reservoir and mains, and you would supply the water in bulk to them?

Mr. Cooper—Yes.

Mr. H. R. Phillips (Shifnal Rural District Council) said his Council had instructed him to support the application, as they thought they had secured an equitable agreement for supplying the parishes referred to.

The Inspector- Are any of the places affected by this scheme within the area of supply of any other corporation or company?

Mr. Cooper—No.

Mr. Phillips—I should like to add that Cosford takes three million gallons daily out of our district into Staffordshire; yet Mr. Brevitt comes here and opposes our scheme. Apparently Wolverhampton wants all the water.

Alderman A. B. Dyas (chairman of the Madeley Sanitary Committee) said there was great necessity for a good water supply in that locality.

Mr. D. L. Prestage (chairman of the Broseley Sanitary Committee) said the water supply at Broseley was exceedingly bad, and they were anxious to join Madeley in getting a better one.

Mr. Foster (Apley) said he was not opposed to the scheme, subject to certain conditions being observed, but he himself was anxious to afford facilities for carrying it out. He, however, would like to say that such a plan as supplying districts or authorities other than those specified was never for a moment contemplated, and the agreements practically prevented that from occurring.

Mr. Brevitt said he could find nothing in the agreement to that effect.

The Inspector— Well, they would have to go to the Local Government Board before they could do that, and then you could oppose it. It is clear nothing of that kind is contemplated now.

Major Anstice gave technical evidence, and Dr. Gepp spoke of the necessity of an improved supply.

The Inspector— Are you of opinion that this scheme would be sufficient for the purposes of the district for which it is intended?

Dr. Gepp— Yes; I think it would give an ample supply of good water suitable for all purposes. The Inspector— Do you think it is such a water as would have an action on lead?

Dr. Gepp— I do not think it would.

Mr. Stooke, C. E., Shrewsbury, next gave engineering details of the scheme. He said they proposed to raise for Madeley 20,834 gallons per hour, and for Broseley 14,286 gallons per hour. He had put the yield of the well at 400 gallons per minute. No doubt there would be a supply far beyond the places named. He did not think the scheme would in the least interfere with Cosford. Allowance had been made for probable increase of population or demand.

Mr. Brevitt contended that it was likely the well at Harrington would affect the Cosford well, and when the Wenlock Corporation had their application granted they could under the provision of Section 51 Public Health Act contract with any other person for the supply of water without having the consent of the Local Government Board.

The Inspector said he did not think so.

Mr. Brevitt said on behalf of the Wolverhampton Corporation he should make a formal protest.

The Wenlock Town Clerk did not agree with Mr. Brevitt’s reading of the section, again he contended he had no right to come there at all.

They concluded the inquiry.

31^st March 1900

IRON-BRIDGE

PETTY SESSIONS.— TUESDAY

Before Colonel J. A. Anstice (chairman), Colonel Wayne, Alderman A. B. Dyas, and Councillor W. Y. Owen.

CASE FROM JACKFIELD.- William Jones, brick and tile manufacturer, Jackfield, was charged with a breach of the Factories and Workshops Act.— Mr. Ashworth (inspector) stated that at a quarter to eight at night he visited defendant’s works and found Thomas Rogers, a youth 13 years of age, at work. Mr. Jones was in his office at the time, but told witness that he was not aware the lad was at work, and that the boys were employed by the men, and he did not consider himself to be responsible. There were two other boys at work, and he hoped this would be a warning to the defendant.— Defendant pleaded guilty, but added that the men were on piece work, and that they employed the lads and paid them.— Jones was fined £1 and costs.

GAME TRESPASS.— Thomas Boden and Joseph Morris, labourers, Broseley, were charged with trespassing on Luke Reynolds’s land in the parish of Barrow, in pursuit of conies.— Richard Kitson, lead-gamekeeper to Lord Forester, stated that he was on duty near the Wyke Farm in company with Sergeant Roberts and Robert Thomas (Colonel Wayne’s keeper) when he saw the defendants coming along a footpath in the direction of Barrow. They had a lurcher dog and were walking slowly, and hunting the fences all the way. The dog started a rabbit and Morris left the footpath and encouraged the dog. He subsequently told the defendants he should summon them. Witness did not press the case, but wanted to suppress Sunday trespass.— Defendants were each fined 12s. 3d., including costs.- William Bright, labourer Benthall, Edward Thomas Elks, grocer’s porter, and Albert Roberts, insurance agent, Iron-Bridge, were also charged with trespassing in search of conies on Mr. Walkinshaw’s land, Benthall. Mr. F. R. Spender defended. — Thomas Aston, waggoner, Benthall said be worked for Robert Walkinshaw, farmer, Benthall. He was in the farm building, when he saw the three defendants several yards off the path with a dog. Elkes carried a gun and the others were knocking the bushes. Bright asked him where Mr. Walkingshaw was and he told him.— Robert Walkinshaw said about five o’clock he saw the three men coming towards him with a dog and one had a gun. Bright came up to him and said he had brought a friend to have a shoot at some rabbits if he would consent. Witness asked him how he could be so impudent when only a short time ago he saw him planting wires for rabbits on his land without permission. He accordingly ordered them off. He gave information to Robert Thomas, who reported the matter to Col. Wayne, who has the shooting rights there.— Robert Thomas (gamekeeper to Col. Wayne) gave evidence as to what Bright told him two days after.— Col. Wayne add he did not wish to press the case, but desired to stop this trespass.— Albert Roberts went in the box and said he was an insurance agent, and when on his rounds he met Elks, who wanted to go to a pigeon shooting match at Broseley. He took him to the place, but found it was over, and then Elkes went with him for a walk. Witness called at Bright’s house, and on seeing the gun said he would see Mr. Walkinshaw and ask for permission to shoot some rabbits. They saw Mrs. Walkinshaw, who said she had no power to give then permission, and directed them to her husband. They never saw a rabbit the gun was never loaded and the dog was not six months old.- Elkes corroborated.— Mr. Spender contended there was no case, and asked the Bench to dismiss the charge they subsequently did.

31^st March 1900

BROSELEY.

WESLEYAN P.S.A.— Mr. W. Edge (Mill House) gave an excellent address, and Miss Denstone sang “The Good Shepherd” with taste and feeling.

ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH.- On Sunday afternoon a Confirmation Service was held in this church by the Bishop of Hereford. Eighty-seven candidates were presented from the following parishes:- Benthall and Broseley 20, Coalbrookdale 29, Jackfield 11, Willey 15. The church was crowded. In the evening the Bishop preached an excellent sermon on “The blessedness of giving.” The service, which was fully choral, was conducted by the rector (Rev. O. F. Lamb, M.A.). Mr. H. E. Clarke read the lessons. The choir acquitted themselves well, Mr. Theo. Watkis presided it the organ. There was a very large congregation, and the offertory, which amounted to £15 8s. 4d., will be devoted to the Indian Famine Fund.

VESTRY MEETING.— On Thursday a meeting of ratepayers was held for the purpose of electing churchwardens and nominating overseers for the ensuing year. Rev. G. F. Lamb, M.A., was chairman. Mr. E. Davis was re-elected rector’s warden and Mr. A. Wiggins was elected people’s warden, with Messrs. W. Francis and R. A. Instone sidesmen. A vote of thanks was accorded to the retiring warden, Mr. E. R. Instone. Mr. Edward Oakes complained of the number of youths who congregated at the church gates at the close of the evening service, thereby causing an obstruction. The following were nominated overseers, out of which number the magistrates will select two to serve the office:— Messrs. G. Eggleston. J. H. Matthews, A. Scott, A. J. Jonas, H. W. Bray, and W. Meredith.

JACKFIELD.

FUNERAL— On Thursday the remains of the late Frederick Harrison, son of Mr. Edward Harrison, were interred in the Broseley Cemetery, a large number of people witnessing the interment. Deceased, who was only 20 years of age, was well known and highly respected in the district, he being a member of the Jackfield Brass Band, and also of the Football and Cricket Clubs, the members of which attended as a mark of respect.

FORESTER’S FUNERAL.— The funeral of the late Mr. Joseph Bissell, aged 48, took place on Monday at the Broseley cemetery. Deceased was a member of the “Rose of the Green” Court of the Order of Foresters at Broseley, and number of members attired in the regalia of the Order attended the funeral. Mr. George Maiden read the Order’s oration at the graveside.

PRESENTATION.— Mr. J. W. Shingler, who has resigned his post as organist at St. Mary’s church, was last week presented by the choir and friends with a silver lever watch with suitable inscription. The Rev. Marsden Edwards (rector) made the presentation, and Mr. Shingler responded. The members of the old choir prevented Mr. Shingler with a silver matchbox. On the motion of Mr. G. Stephens, supported by Mr. G. S. Williams the rector was thanked for making the presentation.

5^th May 1900

BROSELEY.

P.W.E. BIBLE CLASS.- The last meeting for this season in connection with this class was held in the Congregational Chapel on Wednesday evening, when Mr. Maurice Jones, M.A., of Iron-Bridge, delivered an admirable address.

WESLEYAN P.S.A.— The usual meeting was held in the Wesleyan Chapel on Sunday. Mr. J. E. Hartshorne presided. The Rev. W. Crouch (superintendent of the circuit) gave an address on “Ambition.” Mr. J. A. Hartshorne gave a reading entitled “Blossom and the President.” Mr. J. Arthur Hartshorne presided at the harmonium. There was a large attendance.

SANITARY COMMITTEE.- WEDNESDAY

Present:— Captain D. L. Prestage (chairman), Aldermen J. A. Exley, G. H. Maw, Councillors P. Jones, R. A. Instone, W. E. Southorn, E. G. Exley, with Messrs. A. Owen (deputy clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H Griffiths (deputy surveyor), J. Dixon (collector), and Dr. Gepp (medical officer).

THE RATE.— The Collector reported that the rate was coming in very well.— A cheque was drawn in favour of the surveyor for £30, which the Clerk said .would leave £60 in hand.

CROSS KEYS WALL.— Tenders were received for re-building this wall, and Mr. G. Parker’s (Broseley) which was the lowest, £11, was accepted.

BAD PAVEMENTS. — The Chairman thought it would be a very good thing if they could do something to the pavements in the town, which he considered were at present a disgrace.— Nothing was done in the matter.

WATER SUPPLY. - The Clerk reported that Mr. Stooke, engineer, had been to the Local Government board, who had expressed a general approval of the water scheme for Madeley, Iron-Bridge, and Broseley, so they might receive sanction for borrowing the money at any time. The Joint Water Committee were given power to act on receipt of the sanction.

HEALTH OF THE DISTRICT. — Dr. Gepp reported that up to the present Broseley had escaped the measles, and he believed it was getting better at Jackfield, where there had been one death. It had been very prevalent at Iron-Bridge and district, where 14, deaths had occurred. Regarding other complaints Broseley had been exceptionally free.— Mr. E. G. Exley: That must be owing to the drainage. (Laughter).- The Chairman: The health of the district is evidently satisfactory.

NUISANCES.— Several nuisances were reported by the Inspector, which were ordered to be abated.

12^th May 1900

WENLOCK TOWN COUNCIL.

The quarterly meeting was held at the Guildhall on Wednesday; present:— Lord Forester (mayor), Colonel J. A. Anstice. Major R. E. Anstice. Aldermen A. B. Dyas, J. Bodenham, G. Lloyd, Councillors Lane, Maddox, Beddoes, Ayre, Bryan, Preece, Cartwright, Davies, Allen, Edwards, Evans, Ainsworth, Prestage, Barnett, Exley, Cooke, and Messrs. Godfrey Cooper (town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), F. H. Potts (borough treasurer), and A. H. Thorn (magistrates’ clerk).

BOROUGH RATE.— The Mayor said the total amount of bills due was £246 2s. 7d., and £90 8s. 2d. was required to be raised by a rate.— Alderman Dyas moved that a borough rate of 1/2 d. in the pound be levied. — Mr. Bodenham seconded. — Carried.

THE MAIN ROADS COMMITTEE recommended that £5 a year be allowed the assistant surveyor for travelling expenses, and that they had made application to the County Council to mend the Station Road at Madeley.— On the motion of Mr. Allen, it was resolved to allow the assistant surveyor £5 for travelling expenses.- Mr. Cooke remarked that the Main Roads Committee had not worked very satisfactorily the last 12 months, and he moved that these roads be handed over to each of the wards, and that they he empowered to draw cheques up to 90 per cent. of that which was allowed them for the repair of the main roads.— Mr. Beddoes seconded the motion.— A letter was read from Mr. Thursfield, chairman of the Main Roads Committee in favour of the present system. He considered the grant must be kept separate— Mr. Ayre said it was pointed out at the Main Roads Committee that Mr. Cooke’s proposition would not upset the present arrangements.— Mr. Prestage said the idea of bringing forward this proposal was that each Sanitary Committee should have some voice in the management of their own roads. The members of the Main Roads Committee attended the meeting, and could say nothing. Whatever the surveyor said was carried out.— Mr. Dyas: That is quite true.- Colonel Anstice spoke at length in favour of keeping to the present system. He moved as an amendment, that the question be referred back to the committee who should give a further report. — Major Anstice seconded - Mr. Allen could not see the proposed alteration would upset the present financial position, but the Clerk told him it would.— Mr. Maddox said the chairman of the Main Roads Committee told him that he never remembered the system work so badly. He supported the original resolution.— Mr. Cooke remarked that he did not propose to do away with the Main Roads Committee, but that each ward should have the looking after their own roads, and if the surveyor did not do his duty give him notice.— The Mayor spoke in favour of the amendment, and other members supported the resolution, which was carried by a large majority; only the proposer and seconder voting for the amendment.

THE JACKFIELD FERRY— A petition was read from the inhabitants of Jackfield, Coalport, Madeley, and Iron-Bridge, asking the Council to erect a permanent bridge across the Severn, or to afford some safer means of crossing the river.—Colonel Anstice said on behalf of the owners of the Coalport ferry, they (the Madeley Wood Company) were prepared to enter into any negotiations with a committee appointed by the Council, with the view of selling the land on reasonable terms.— Mr. Cooke thought the matter was a local question, and not a borough matter,— Mr. Maddox moved that a committee be appointed to consider the matter. What with ferries and bridges he thought no one were more heavily taxed than the people living in that part of the district. He thought something should be done by this Council in building a bridge. Perhaps, he added, the County Council would help them.— Mr. Lane, in seconding the motion, was pleased to hear Colonel Anstice’s remark.— The Clerk observed that the County Council was the only authority that had power to build a bridge across the Severn.— The motion was carried, and Messrs, Ayre, Lane, Dyas, Maddox, Exley, Prestage, and Maw were elected on the committee.— On the motion of Alderman Dyas, a vote of thanks was accorded Colonel Anstice for his kind offer.

SMALL DWELLINGS ACT. — Colonel Anstice moved that they adopted the provisions given them under this Act.— Mr. Maddox seconded. He had read some of the sections, and he believed it would be a good thing for the working people. It would give them a chance of avoiding the everlasting payment of rent.— Mr. Cooke saw no danger in adopting the Act.— The resolution was carried.

MISCELLANEOUS.— Mr. Symonds, the inspector of weights and measures, presented his annual report showing that there had only been one conviction during the year.- Mr. Dyas considered it was a satisfactory report, and proposed that it be adopted, and that a vote of thanks be given the inspector.- Colonel Anstice seconded the motion, which was carried.— Sergeant Hopwood was appointed inspector under the Explosives Act.— A letter was read from Colonel Anstice asking the employers of labour to give their volunteers every facility to attend the camp.— The Mayor stated that they had collected in the district £60 towards the Indian Famine Fund, and there was more yet to come in.

12^th May 1900

JACKFIELD

SUDDEN DEATH.- On Tuesday Mr. F. H. Potts (borough coroner) held an inquiry as to the death of William Edward Wylde, the son of Edward Wylde, miner, Jackfield.- Deceased was eight month old, and was alive at four o’clock on Sunday morning, but when the mother awoke at eight she was astonished to fin the child dead. “Death from natural Causes” was the verdict of the jury.

12^th May 1900

SHROPSHIRE AND THE WAR
A JACKFIELD MAN KILLED.

It is reported that Trooper Jackson Doughty (Jackfield) was killed in the battle of Brandfort on Saturday last, Writing from De Aar on April 10th to Mr. E. Miller of the Elephant and Castle Hotel, Shrewsbury, Trooper Doughty said:—“We have had a rough time of it—three whole days and not a dry thread on us, no tents to sleep in. We have two rugs and one waterproof sheet, and lay ourselves down on the veldt. What a contrast to a feather bed! We have not had a smoke for a fortnight, and I have forgotten the taste of beer, not had any for six weeks; public houses are all closed to soldiers. We have been up country about 300 miles after the rebels, but we could not get near them. Over 300 came into camp and gave up their arms and ammunition. It was rather rough on us, but we had plenty of food. We are off to Bloemfontein tomorrow. I expect it will be a bit harder there, but I want to have a smack at the Boers—they are a bad lot.”

The deceased trooper, who was about 23 years of age, and by profession an engineer, proceeded to South Africa in January, accompanied by Mr. Wilson of the Tontine Hotel, Iron-Bridge, and on landing at the Cape enlisted into Kitchener’s Horse, which has been prominently engaged in all the operations in the Free State.

19^th May 1900

Letters to the Editor

COALPORT FERRY.

To THE EDITOR. Sir,— Will you kindly allow me to make a suggestion through the medium of your valuable paper for the consideration of the committee recently appointed by the Wenlock Local Board to deal with this matter. Assuming that satisfactory arrangements can be made with the owners of the land to admit of a permanent bridge being erected, I would respectfully suggest a strong representation being made to the County Council, at the instigation of the said committee, through their Local Board, with a view to obtain the necessary authority for constructing a permanent road-bridge for conveyances as well as for pedestrians, and afterwards an appeal might be made to the leading local firms, and the ratepayers generally, for aid to support the undertaking, which I feel sure would be speedily forthcoming to secure free inter-communication, but in the event of opposition arising from any source it might be considered desirable to raise the money by means of a loan, extended over a given period, and redeemed by toll recovered, as circumstances permitted. As a rate-payer, and one of those who first assisted in bringing the matter prominently before the general public, allow me to thank you most cordially for the interest you have shown, and the valuable assistance rendered by your journal, in helping forward the movement that has been set on foot in the interests of everyone connected with the immediate locality. PRO BONO PUBLICO

26^th May 1900

RELIEF OF MAFEKING

JACKFIELD.- The people of this district were also loyal, and the effigy of Kruger was taken round the village. The Brass Band was in attendance, and lively time prevailed.

BROSELEY.- News having reached Broseley early on Sunday morning that Mafeking was really and truly relieved, the inhabitants were aroused by the blowing of bulls at the various works, and the firing of cannon. The inhabitants soon set to work, and flags were seen floating in the breeze on every hand, and great enthusiasm prevailed. During the afternoon a decorated waggon, drawn by three horses, paraded the town, also men in uniform on horseback. The children attending the Broseley National Schools, under the leadership of Mr. H. E. Clarke (headmaster), also paraded the streets, singing “Soldiers of the Queen,” “Rule Britannia,” &c., and the church bells sent forth merry peals during the evening. The Union Jack was hoisted upon the church tower, and on Sunday evening the National Anthem was sung in the parish church.

BROSELEY

PUBLIC REJOICINGS to commemorate the Queen’s birthday and the relief of Mafeking were enthusiastically observed at Broseley on Thursday, when the town was quite in a festive mood. The streets were gaily bedecked with flags and festoons, and in the afternoon the various establishments were closed as well as the schools. At six o’ clock in the morning two large guns were fired by Messrs. H. Onions and T. Instone, and at seven o’clock the church bell rang merry peals. In the afternoon a procession was formed in the fair field, and in the following order paraded the town:- Horsemen (Mr. Burnet and Mr. R. A. Instone), first brake (boys), boys in costume, horsemen, Oddfellows, cyclists, lady rider (Miss Instone), second brake (children), horseman, red, white, and blue (Mr. Powell’s brake). Foresters, horseman, Jackfield Band, Baden-Powell (Mr R. A. Instone’s man), Volunteers, third brake (children), horseman, Red Cross nurses, horseman, Modern masons, Lady Sarah Wilson (Miss Matthews), Broseley Cricket Club, horseman, fourth brake (children) ambulance, horseman, turnout (Mr. Onions), maxim gun (Mr. Wood), Cronje (G. Gallimore), horseman, fifth brake (children), Fire Brigade, horseman, Mr and Mrs. Kruger, horseman, cannon, Volunteers. The Jackfield Band afterwards played for dancing on the sports ground, which was participated in by large number of people. The Ambulance Brigade was on the field of battle in the command of Superintendent J. W. White (Iron-Bridge). Later on in the evening a torchlight procession was witnessed by thousands of people. Several of the Volunteer Company and the band took part in the parade. The effigies of Kruger and Conje were burnt in the green, after which dancing became the order. The proceedings were successfully carried out by the committee:- Messrs. G. Potts, H. Rushton, H. Onions, C. Smith, A. Burnett, E. Davies, A. Powell, and A. Wiggins.

26^th May 1900

IRON-BRIDGE

A RUNAWAY.— One of the Great Western Railway drays was coming down Benthall Bank this week, when the horse the shafts took fright at something and descended the hill in a furious manner, and on reaching the corner broke away from the dray and fell over the fencing on to the railway line. Fortunately at the time there were no trains about. The horse escaped with a few scratches it was nothing short of a miracle that the animal escaped death. The driver also miraculously escaped, and no damage was done to the dray.

16^th June 1900

BROSELEY.

Why do the nobility and gentry in this district all ride JAMES DAVIES’S Bicycles? Because they are the best they can get. Ask for catalogue and copy of testimonials.

STORM.— A heavy thunderstorm, with vivid flashes of lightning and terrific peals of thunder, passed over this district on Monday morning, causing considerable dismay and alarm to not a few, besides doing damage to the roof of a house in Quarry Road, occupied by a widow named Cox.

30^th June 1900

IRON-BRIDGE.

VOLUNTEER INSPECTION.— Colonel A. J. Anstice (1st Vol. Batt. K.S.L.I.) inspected the Volunteer Company on Thursday night at Mr. Briscoe’s field. There were 86 on parade, including Adjutant - and Captain McMahon, Captain A. B. Garrett, Sergeant-instructor Kelly.— The Adjutant put the men through the various manoeuvres, after which the Colonel expressed himself satisfied with what he had seen. He was exceedingly pleased with the clean and smart turn-out. The Colonel reminded the men that they must be in the camp for 14 days. The Company were subsequently marched to the Armoury, where (by the kindness of the captain) the men partook of light refreshments.

PROPERTY SALE.— Messrs. Barber and Son, auctioneers, Wellington, conducted a property sale at the Tontine Hotel on Tuesday. There was a large company present. The old-licensed inn, near Coalport Bridge, known as the “Bridge Inn,” was purchased by Messrs. Southam (Shrewsbury) for £1,100. The fully-licensed inn, the “Kings Head,” Broseley, was purchased by Mr. Keay (Wellington) for £520. Messrs. Potts and Potts were the vender’s solicitors. Messrs. Barber also offered for sale two dwelling-houses known as the Bath Tavern, Iron-Bridge, and they were purchased by Mr. T. Perks (Iron-Bridge) for £170. Mr. H. R. Phillips was solicitor for the vendors. Messrs. Benbow and Son, auctioneers, Madeley, offered for sale a freehold house with garden, &c., formerly the residence of the late Mrs. Hedley, Madeley. The property was knocked down to Mr. W. F. Bryan (Madeley) for £320.

7^th July 1900

BROSELEY.

CHOIR EXCURSION. Yesterday week the members of All Saints’ Church Choir had their annual excursion, the place selected being Barmouth. Unfortunately the enjoyment of the day was somewhat marred by the unpropitious weather. The party returned home safely.

DISTRICT COUNCIL.— WEDNESDAY.

Present:— Alderman J. A. Exley (chairman), Councillors R. A. Instone, E. G. Exley, P. Jones, and Messrs. Godfrey Cooper (town cleric), G. Stevenson and Hugh Griffiths (surveyors), J. Dixon (collector), and Dr. Gepp (medical officer).

FINANCE.— The Collector reported that there was £125 yet to be collected on the first instalment of the rate.— The Clerk reported there was a balance of £145 14s. 2d. in hand.— Cheques amounting to nearly £100 were drawn to pay the officers’ salaries, &c.

A TRAMWAY.— An application was made by Mr. W. Jones (brick and tile manufacturer) to put a tramway across the public road at Jackfield.— Capt. Prestage, in a letter, said he had visited the place and saw no objection to it.— The application was granted.

HEALTH OF THE DISTRICT.— Dr. Gepp reported that there were no cases of measles which had ceased after a serious outbreak. There had been seven deaths in Broseley and four at Jackfield, entirely among the infants. He said there was a case of diphtheria at Jackfield, in a small house which was isolated.

WATER QUESTION.— The Clerk reported that subject to the consent of the Apley Estate Trustees and the Council, the committee would supply Shifnal town and parish with the Harrington water at 4½. per 1,000 gallons, and an annual payment for 50 years for interest on extra capital outlay; the minimum supply to be 15,000 gallons a day and the maximum 100,000. Dawley Council, he said, had applied for water, but the matter was not yet settled.

PETTY SESSIONS.— TUESDAY.

Before Messrs. W. O. Norris (chairman), A. B. Dyas, and Colonel Wayne.

NO LIGHT.- Cecil Ledger was charged with riding a bicycle at Broseley without a light.— Police constable Davies proved the case, and defendant was fined 1s. and costs.

14^th July 1900

JACKFIELD

BACK FROM THE WAR.- Private Hill returned on the evening of July 6^th, when he was met by several friends, and the Jackfield Brass Band played patriotic airs.

14^th July 1900

IRON-BRIDGE.

SINGULAR ACCIDENT.— A labourer named Jos. Whale was on Tuesday assisting in, repairing a large chimney stack belonging to the Gas Company, when he accidentally fell down the chimney inside. His head was badly cut, and he was severely shaken. Whale was taken home, and attended by Dr. Whitfield.

23^rd July 1900

IRON-BRIDGE.

PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.

Before Colonel Anstice (chairman), Messrs. W. G. Norris, W. Y. Owen, and A. B. Dyas.

WARNING TO WORKPEOPLE.— Henry Meredith and Edwin Scoltock, in the employ of Messrs. Maw and Co., encaustic tile works, Jackfield, were charged with a breach of the Factory Act by not wearing an overall and head-gear while employed in the process of dipping. Mr. F. R. Spender defended.— Mr. Jas. Edw. Ashworth (inspector) stated that the rules were drawn up by the Home Secretary for the proper working and carrying on of this industry. It was difficult to enforce it on the men.— Mr. Spender asked for a proof of the rules.— The Inspector said he had the Home Secretary’s order at home.— After it was decided to adjourn the case to the next court, Mr. Spender ultimately said he had had a conference with the inspector, who was willing to withdraw the case on payment of costs.— Mr. Ashworth said the men had previously been warned, and the company were desirous of carrying out the rules, but the men took no notice.— The case was allowed to be withdrawn, the defendants having to pay the costs

28^th July 1900

SHROPSHIRE AND THE WAR
A JACKFIELD SOLDIER’S LETTER.

The following is a copy of a letter received from Private W. Ball to his late fellow workmen at Messrs. Maw and Co.’s, Ltd, Benthall Works, Jackfield, who had sent, him a box containing whisky, tobacco, &c., and the following note outside—“If the person to whom this box is addressed is dead or cannot be found, kindly return to Mr. Alfred Malpas, c/o Messrs. Maw and Co., Ltd., Benthall Work, Jackfield, Shropshire.” Roodwell, June 15th. “I hope you are all going on well and a lot better than I am at present, but there are better days in store. I expect you have seen in the papers what we have gone through. I have been to Pretoria, it is about such another place as Iron-Bridge, and forts all round, but we got in after three hours’ shelling. I have been through Johannesburg. I shall be able to tell you a bit about South Africa when I get back. I think I have travelled through it enough— I have been through the very rich mines at Florida. I am sorry to tell you that the Boers have captured a train with five weeks’ mail, and have burnt a lot of letters and torn them. We found a lot without any envelopes, also some papers. We never saw a parcel at all. The piece of paper that I sent you I picked up in one of the Boer laagers after we captured it. They even burnt our winter clothing that was sent out to us— blankets and socks. I have seen a bit of fighting, having gone through ten general engagements and 21 others. We have made a record—fighting 21 days out of 27, and marched 327 miles on half rations. Lord Roberts gives us a very good name.”

4^th August 1900

BROSELEY.

A SERIOUS ACCIDENT occurred on July 27 to a young man named Albert Rushton of Cape Street. It appears that he was white-washing the stables at the residence of the Hon. George Forester, Barrow, when the steps he was standing upon suddenly slipped, causing him to fall backwards with great violence to the floor, the result being a fracture of the right elbow, besides a severe shaking to the system generally.

SUNDAY SCHOOL TREATS.— On Tuesday the scholars attending the Broseley Congregational Sunday School had their annual treat in the school-room, afterwards adjourning to a field kindly lent by Mr. J. D. Smith, where they indulged in a variety of games. The superintendent and teachers did their utmost to promote the youngsters’ enjoyment, in which they appeared to be entirely successful.— On Monday the scholars attending the Broseley Wesleyan Sunday School had their annual treat in a field at The Lea, Benthall, kindly lent by Mr. J. E. Hartshorne. After a plentiful supply of tea cake, &c., numerous games were heartily entered into by the children, whose enjoyment was greatly promoted by the attention of the teachers and other friends.

4^th August 1900

WENLOCK TOWN COUNCIL.

The quarterly meeting was held on Wednesday, when there were present:—Aldermen J. Bodenham (chairman), R. E. Anstice, A. B. Dyas, G. Lloyd, Councillors F. G. Beddoes, C. E. Ainsworth, T. Barnett, C. Edwards, J. Davies, Hart, W. Y. Owen, R. F. Ayre, W. F. Bryan, B. Preece, B. Maddox, A. G. Cartwright, T. Cooke, and W. Allen, with Messrs. A. Owen (deputy clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), and F. H. Potts (borough treasurer).

INDIAN FAMINE FUND.— Lord Forester (mayor) sent a letter regretting his inability to attend the meeting. He added that in addition to the £100 odd he had sent to the Lord Mayor’s Indian famine fund he had since received from the vicar of Coalbrookdale £20 16s., and £11 8s. 9d. from the Rev. W. J. Johnson (Little Wenlock), the result of house to house collection.

RATE.— On the motion of Mr. Dyas, seconded by Mr. Lloyd, it was decided to levy a low rate of 10d. in the pound.

RESIGNATION.— A letter was read from Mr. Hugh Griffiths resigning his post as assistant-surveyor and inspector, and informing the Council that he had been appointed in the surveyor’s office at Crewe, and asked to be released at the end of the week.— Mr. Griffiths’s resignation was accepted.— Mr. Cooke thought the time had come when the offices should be divided. He proposed that a committee be appointed to consider the matter.— Mr. Cartwright seconded.— The Chairman thought it would be best to call a special meeting, and to submit a report at the November meeting.— Mr. Maddox suggested that the Main Roads Committee should consider the matter.— This was agreed to, and Mr. Cooke’s motion was carried.

WATER SUPPLY.— Major Anstice reported that sanction had been received from the Local Government - Board in respect to the Madeley and Broseley Water Supply.

THE COALPORT FERRY.— At the last meeting a petition was read from the inhabitants of Jackfield, Coalport, Madeley, and Iron-Bridge asking the Council to erect a permanent bridge across the Severn, or to afford some safer means of crossing the river. A committee was appointed to consider the matter, and this was their report: —“Your committee beg to report that they have held three meetings since the meeting of the Council at which they were appointed. They have also been in communication with the Madeley Wood Co., who offered to sell the existing ferry boat, with the landing stages and approaches, for £1,000. Your committee, however, do not consider that the site of the present ferry at Coalport would be a suitable position for the erection of a bridge, and they therefore proposed to treat with the Madeley Wood Co. for the acquisition of a site somewhere opposite the Lloyds School. The Madeley Wood Co. are not, however, willing at the present time to negotiate for the sale of such a site unless the ferry is purchased as well, pointing out (very reasonably) that they cannot of course consent to do anything which would in any way injure the existing ferry boat. Under these circumstances, looking at the legal difficulties in the way of erecting a toll-bridge and the expense of purchasing the ferry and acquiring sites on each side of the river, to which must be added the cost of erecting the bridge itself. With regard to the erection of a free bridge, your committee consider it would be impossible to raise the amount which would be required for the purpose. Your committee suggest that the County Council should be approached on the subject, with the view of sharing the expense.” Mr. Dyas, in moving the adoption of the report, remarked that the committee found it a very difficult question. The expenses were very great, and taking into consideration the expenses some of the wards had been put to in providing water for the district they were of opinion that they could not recommend the Council to undertake this work at present. The first cost in buying up the ferry would be £1,000, and the foundation would cost them a lot of money. Altogether he estimated the cost of putting a footbridge across the Severn would be about £3,000.— Mr. Maddox seconded the motion. He said the question of erecting a footbridge was not so easily settled as a great many people were inclined to think. If they could get the County Council to give them £1,000, and the borough contribute £1,000, he though they would be able to raise another £1,000 by public subscription. He suggested that the clerk should lay before them full details of the cost and show them how the district was taxed. He knew two or three members of one family who paid 13s. each year for crossing the river. He added that the County Council made several grants, and he thought money given towards a bridge would be wisely spent. He observed that it had been said that the borough was not unanimous in supporting the scheme, especially those who lived in the Wenlock and Barrow wards. He thought they had cause for their consideration and sympathy. Mr. Ayre considered there would be a great difficulty in getting the County Council to take the matter up for the simple reason they were private and not public roads on each side of the river. He however thought they should strongly approach the County Council asking them to free one of the bridges or to put one across the Severn.

18^th August 1900

JACKFIELD.

FLOWER, SERVICE.— This was held Sunday afternoon, when the Rector presented the ware which were afterwards sent to the Salop Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital. The offertory was also given to that institution

RE-OPENING SERVICES.— This Wesleyan Chapel has recently been renovated, and on Sunday it was opened, when special sermons were preached by Rev. H. J. Brookfield (Madeley Wood) and Mr. J. Norry. The congregations were remarkably large and collections were taken to defray expenses. Mr. Arthur Skitt ably presided at the organ

ST. MARY’S CHURCH.- A beautiful stained glass window has been dedicated to the memory of the late Mr. and Mrs. Doughty of the Tuckies. The objects comprise “Christ blessing little Children,” “The Good Shepherd,” and “Come unto me all ye weary and heavy laden,” with the following inscription:— “To this glory of God. This window was erected to the memory of John and Ann Elizabeth Doughty of the Tuckies, by their children, A. D., 1900”. The window is a fine specimen of the art, and has greatly added to the beauty of the interior the church.

18^th August 1900

PETTY SESSIONS,—TUESDAY.

Before Messrs. B. W. Shorting (chairman), A. B. Dyas, and W. G. Norris.

OBSCENE LANGUAGE.- Isaac Garbett and Henry Mason were charged with making use of obscene language at King Street, Broseley.—Police-constable Davies proved the case, and defendants were each fined l0s. and costs.- Henry and Eliza Tench, man and wife, were each fined 5s. and costs for quarrelling in their own house and using had language.—Police-constable Davies proved the case.

COAL STEALING.—Thomas Weobley, clay miner, Jackfield, was charged with stealing 110lb. weight of coal, of the value of 9d., the property of Thomas Doughty, brick and tile merchant.- Sergeant Bowen stated that he was on duty near Mr. Doughty's brick yard, when he saw the defendant come out of the yard carrying a bag on his back to his cottage. Witness stopped him, and examined the bag and found it contained coal. He told defendant he should charge him with stealing it, when defendant replied, “Mr. Bowen, please forgive me.” He told defendant he could not do it, and took possession of the coal.—Defendant pleaded guilty, and asked for leniency as he had seven children.—The Bench expressed their sorrow at seeing defendant charged with such an offence, and fined him £1 4s., including costs, or 14 days’ imprisonment.

25^th August 1900

BROSELEY.

Ladies and Gentlemen who wish to cycle in comfort in this hilly district should consult James Davies; he will impart secret, and guarantee results. Observe address, King St., Broseley.

SPECIAL SERVICES.— On Sunday two sermons were preached in the Wesleyan Chapel by the Rev. T. Champness (of the “Joyful News” Home, Rochdale). The choir sustained their usual reputation, and Mr. J. A. Hartshorne presided at the harmonium. Collections were taken in aid of the organ and renovation scheme.

SERIOUS ACCIDENT.— On the 17th inst., Peter Corfield, a groom in the employ of Messrs. Collins and Boon, surgeons, was returning from Rowton Farm on horseback, when from some unexplained cause the horse bolted, and continued its mad career until reaching the Deanery, Broseley, when it fell down exhausted, throwing its rider to the ground. The result was that Corfield sustained dislocation of the shoulder, several severe cuts and bruises, and slight concussion of the brain, and he now lies in a somewhat precarious condition.

OUTING.— On Saturday the juvenile members of Court “Rose of the Green,” A.O.F., held at the Lion Hotel, had their annual outing, the place selected this year being the picturesque village of Cound. The party, who numbered about 90 in all, were conveyed by brake to their destination. A capital tea was provided at the inn, the catering of the host and hostess giving every satisfaction. The following gentlemen composed the committee, and were responsible for the arrangements, which were carried out in a highly satisfactory manner:— Messrs. G. Boden (chairman), P. Scott (treasurer), J. Watkins (secretary), J. Garbett, T. Shaw, T. Jones, and G. Harrington.

1^st September 1900

MUCH WENLOCK.

LICENSING SESSIONS.— TUESDAY.

Before Colonel H. Wayne. Messrs. W. G. Norris, J. Bodenham, and W. Y. Owen.

SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT. — Superintendent Walters reported that during the year three license holders had been prosecuted by the police or offences against the Licensing Acts, viz., selling intoxicating liquor to drunken persons. Of this number two were convicted and fined, and one case was withdrawn. Of the persons convicted one had died, and the license had been transferred to a new tenant; the other had been served with a notice of objection to the renewal of his license in connection with such conviction. Sixteen licenses have been transferred during the year. The prosecutions for drunkenness, &c. number 54— 53 males and 1 female, convicted 52. The previous year such prosecutions were 76— 73 males and 3 females, convicted 73 males and 2 females. During the previous five years the yearly average of such prosecutions has been 100.- Mr. Norris considered it a very satisfactory report.— Mr. Spender, who represented Mr. Smith of the Duke of Wellington Inn, Jackfield, remarked he did not think the superintendent was serious regarding his client.— Superintendent Walters said he was instructed to object to this license.- Inspector Hamlet stated that in Jackfield there were eight full-licensed houses and one beerhouse. The population was 1,642.— The magistrates told Mr. Smith that he must be careful as to the way he conducted his house, and it would be on the understanding that such care would be exercised that the license would be renewed.— All the other licenses were also renewed.

WHAT HE DESERVED.— George Price, a young man, living at Broseley, was charged with assaulting and ill-treating Edith Sargeant, a girl, 11 years old, who lived with her grandmother at Willey Furnaces.— Prisoner was sentenced to a month’s imprisonment.

9^h September 1900

BROSELEY

SANITARY AUTHORITY - WEDNESDAY

Present:- Councillors W. E. Southorn (chairman) E. G. Exley, W. Mear, P. Jones, and Messrs. Godfrey, C. Cooper (town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), and J, Dixon (collector).

A WARNING.- Mr. Dixon said he had collected £486 19s 11d., and that there were still £12 9s. 1d. to collect. He said there were some ratepayers who had not paid their rates, and he was instructed to summon them.- The Town Clerk reported there was a balance in hand of £190 2s. 4d.- A cheque for £25 was drawn in favour of the surveyor.

HEAVY MORTALITY.- The Town Clerk read a letter he had received form the Local Government Board to the effect that they had observed from the returns made to the Registrar-General for the quarter ending June 30^th that exceptional mortality (27 deaths) from measles occurred during the quarter in the Madeley and Broseley sub-district. They therefore requested the Town Council to instruct their medical officer of health to report on the subject. The Board desired that the report should contain information as to the circumstances in which the diseases became prevalent in the borough, and as to the subsequent “behaviour” of the epidemic. It should also contain an account of the measures adopted in the borough to prevent the spread of measles.- The Clerk said the Mayor was away, and that he was instructed by the deputy-mayor to ask the medical officer to prepare the report required.

MISCELLANEOUS.- Mr. Charles Smith’s tender for relaying the crossing near the Town Hall was accepted.- The Surveyor reported several nuisances, which were ordered to be abated.- Mr. Exley said several influential ratepayers complained to him about the manner in which the roadmen did their work. He said they were not so particular, and did not stir themselves as they used to. The Surveyor thought there was an improvement. Mr. Exley: I am of the same opinion as the public. It had been remarked to him that Mr. Stevenson employed a number of men when no one else would. The Surveyor said his choice of men was limited. The Collector said he had heard complaints about the state of the streets. Mr. Exley said the men were practically their own masters; they came to work when they liked and left off when they liked. The Surveyor was asked to inform the men that complaints had been made about them.

15^th September 1900

JACKFIELD

THE WAKES were celebrated this week in the usual manner. Dinners were given at the Black Swan and Half Moon on Monday, and at night a supper was provided at the Duke of Wellington, and dances at the Summerhouse.

15^th September 1900

Letters to the Editor

BROSELEY STREETS AND ROADS.

To THE EDITOR. Sir,— Kindly allow me space to corroborate the remarks made by Mr. E. G. Exley at the last meeting of the Broseley District Council, relative to the roadmen. I do not know what wages the men receive, but probably they earn all they get. The roads and streets are certainly worse now than they have been for some time. Let the men have a living wage and let the surveyor see that they do their duty, but I fancy he finds this difficult considering he has appointments under four District Councils. The majority of the nuisances reported are undertaken by the public themselves; no wonder, then, that epidemics are constantly occurring, when the inspector of nuisances is so fully employed. The public are certainly very forbearing, but Broseley may not inappropriately be called “Sleepy Hollow.” Let each District Council appoint and pay its own officers, then, and not till then, shall we have our streets and roads kept in proper order, and everything done to promote the health of the inhabitants generally. The water, I suppose, is coming some day.

PRO BONO PUBLICO.

29^th September 1900

MADELEY.

BOARD OF GUARDIANS, Yesterday; present:— Col. J. A. Anstice (chairman), Mrs. Bonney, Messrs, Fletcher, Weaver Clayton, Edwards, Maddox, Weston, Roden, Rhodes, Boycott, Owen, Bryan, Norris. Rev. Marsden Edwards, and Messrs. A. H. Thorn (clerk) and G. Watson (master).— Messrs. C. Edwards and H. Wayne were elected visitors for the next fortnight.- Mr. Webster’s tender for supplying yeast was accepted, and Mr. Norgrove’s for eggs and butter. —The Chairman said there was only one tender for erecting additions to the Infirmary, viz., £67 12s. from Messrs. W. Lloyd and Sons, Iron-Bridge. The tender was accepted.— Mrs. Bonney asked when they were going to discuss the Local Government, Board’s circular regarding the better classification of the inmates.— The Chairman thought they should not hurry the matter, and Mr. Roden suggested that they should do nothing in it until the election was over. (Laughter.)— On the motion of Mr. Clayton it was decided to defer the matter for two months.

6^th October 1900

BROSELEY.

HARVEST THANKSGIVING SERVICES were held at the Congregational Chapel on Sunday, when sermons were preached morning and evening by the Rev. W. Prothero (pastor). In the evening, harvest hymns were sung, and the anthem “O Lord, how manifold are Thy Works” was admirably rendered by the choir, under the direction of Mr. A. Evans. Mr. George Tonkiss presided at the organ. There was a fair attendance at each service, and collections were taken on behalf of the chapel funds.

THE HARVEST FESTIVAL was celebrated at the Parish Church on the 28th ult. The service was fully choral, and the Rev. G. F. Lamb, M.A. (rector), read the prayers. The Rev. A. V. Terry (vicar of Benthall) took the first lesson, and the Rev. J. Marsden Edwards (rector of Jackfield) the second lesson. The Rev. George Hale (London) was the special preacher. Processional and recessional hymns were sung. The choir acquitted themselves well in the anthem, “0 come let us sing unto the Lord,” which was repeated on Sunday evening, when there was a crowded congregation. Mr. Theo. Watkis presided at the organ. The church was prettily decorated by Miss May Potts (The Bank), the Misses Lister (2), the Misses Davis (3), High Street, Mrs. Fleming Lamb, and Miss Lamb. There was a large congregation, and the offertory, which amounted to £6, will be devoted to Broseley Nursing Mission.

SANITARY COMMITTEE.- The usual meeting was held on Wednesday; present:— Councillor D. L. Prestage (chairman), P. Jones, W. Mear, and R. A. Instone, Messrs. G. Stevenson (surveyor and inspector), J. Dixon (rate collector), and A. Owen (from the town clerk’s office).— The Collector reported that since the last meeting he had received £12 17s. 10d., the balance of the first instalment of the rate.— The Clerk reported a credit balance of £178 0s. 2d., and cheques were drawn for £87 12s. for salaries, interest on loans, &c.— The Surveyor reported an expenditure since the last meeting of £22 0s. 11d., and a cheque was drawn in his favour for £25.— The question of the footpath by Mr. Instone’s shop, adjourned from last meeting, was again brought forward. A long discussion took place, and it was eventually decided that the surveyor should submit an estimate of the cost of improving the whole of the footpaths adjoining the main roads (including this portion of footpath) and to approach the County Council, through the Borough Main Roads Committee, asking them to defray the cost of the work.— A letter was read from the Rev. W. A. Terry, curate in charge of Benthall, complaining of the offensive condition of Benthall Brook, and Councillors Jones and Southern were appointed as a sub-committee to confer with the Barrow Sanitary Committee (part of the brook being in the Barrow Division) as to the best way of dealing with the matter. A further letter was read from the Rev. W. A. Terry complaining of the bad condition of the road past Ladywood, and also as to the want of lamps upon it. After discussion the clerk was instructed to write and inform him that the road in question was the property of the proprietors of the iron bridge, who took tolls upon the same, and that therefore the committee could not interfere, but that a representation on the subject should be made to the proprietors.

6^th October 1900

A LINLEY TRAGEDY.
SUPPOSED SUICIDE.

The wife of Edward Rawlings, a labourer, who resided at Wren’s Nest, near Linley Station, Shropshire, has been very strange in her manner of late, and on Wednesday afternoon, when the 4-10 passenger train left the station for Coalport, the engine driver saw deceased standing by the side of the line, and as the engine drew near she stepped in front of the train and was knocked down, and died in five minutes. The train stopped, and the body of deceased was taken to a cottage close by to await an inquest.

20^th October 1900

JACKFIELD,

SERIOUS ACCIDENT.— On Thursday afternoon a serious accident occurred to a man named William Goodall, who by some means or other got caught by the flywheel of an engine which is used at Messrs. Maw’s clay pit at the Tuckies, and thereby had his skull fractured. The unfortunate man was removed to his home, where he lies in a precarious condition.

20^th October 1900

MUCH WENLOCK.

THE QUARTER SESSIONS were held yesterday at the Guildhall, but there were no prisoners for trial.

ELECTION OF COUNCILLORS.— The usual election of councillors will take place en November 1st. The members who retire this year, but are eligible for re-election, are:— Barrow Ward, Mr. John Davies; Broseley Ward, Messrs. Edward Goldthorp Exley and Richard Alfred Instone; Madeley Ward, Messrs. William Yate Owen, Reginald Fewson Ayre, and Arthur George Cartwright; Wenlock Ward, Messrs. Charles Edwards and Francis Josiah Hart.

20^th October 1900

IRON-BRIDGE.

A WELCOME HOME.— It is a long time since so many people were seen in the streets of Iron-Bridge as on Monday, when all the town and district turned out to give Corporal W. P. Wilson (son of Mr. T. B. Wilson, Tontine Hotel) a hearty good welcome home from the seat of war. Mr. W. P. Wilson is a corporal in the Wellington Troop of the Shropshire Yeomanry, and soon after the outbreak of the war in South Africa he went to the Cape with the late Mr. Jackson Doughty (Jackfield), and joined Kitchener’s Horse. Unfortunately he was seized with enteric fever, consequently he did no more fighting and returned to England after lying in hospital some weeks. On Monday morning his parents received a telegram that he would arrive at Iron-Bridge that evening. The report rapidly spread throughout the town, and bunting was profusely displayed. He was met at Coalbrookdale Station by crowds of people, amid great cheering. Reaching the Jubilee lamp the horses were taken out of the carriage, and willing hands took possession of the vehicle, and pulled him up in front of his home, the Tontine Hotel, the Volunteer band playing “See the conquering hero comes,” “Soldiers of the Queen,” &c. Corporal Wilson thanked the crowd for the great and unexpected welcome, adding that he had only done his duty in fighting for the Queen and his country. (Cheers.) Mr. T. B. Wilson also spoke and showed his appreciation of his son’s return by gratuitously entertaining the public for some hours.

20^th October 1900

IRON-BRIDGE VOLUNTEERS OFF TO THE WAR.

The four selected Iron-Bridge Volunteers, Messrs. W. Edwards (Iron-Bridge), Hudson (Lightmoor), Fletcher (Broseley), and Boden (Madeley), were on the occasion of their leaving the town for active service in the Transvaal entertained to a grand dinner on Monday evening at the Three Tuns Hotel, Iron-Bridge. The catering of Mr. and Mrs. George Williams (host and hostess) was everything that was desired. The dinner was given by several gentlemen of the town, and the arrangements were excellently carried out by Messrs. E. S. White (hon. sec.), W. T. Chattaway, C. Beddard, J. Walton, and T. Pointon, who formed a committee. Mr. E. M. Webster presided, and he was supported by Captain A. B. Garnett, Mr. J. W. White, Sergeant-Instructor Kelly, and other sergeants of the company. The room was tastefully decorated with Union jacks and suitable mottoes. There was a large company present, and when the cloth was removed, the Chairman, in proposing the health of “The Queen,” remarked that she was the most queenly woman and womanly queen in Europe. (Applause.) She always sympathised with them in their sorrow and rejoiced with them in their joy, and he hoped she would be spared for many years to come. The company here sang the National Anthem. The Chairman then submitted the other loyal toasts. In proposing “The Army, Navy, and Volunteers,” he said they knew what the army was at present doing in Africa, and it was the best army in the world. (Applause.) With reference to the navy it was a good handle to the army. As to the volunteers, unfortunately, they had not been appreciated by the War Office or military authorities as they should have been, and those who were engaged with the volunteers knew what difficulty they experienced in getting along, but the Government would have to do more for them in the future. (Applause.) He believed that sooner or later they would all have to be volunteers, that was if this country was to fulfil its destiny, that it should be the peacemaker and the peacekeeper of the world. He considered they all should be ready to use the rifle when called upon. (Applause.) He coupled with the toast the name of Captain Garnett, who was received with loud cheers on rising to respond. He expressed himself pleased at being present on such an occasion. He considered the army had fought well, and he was sure that eventually their army would be at Blomfontein and Pretoria. (Cheers.) He was pleased to say that Major Anstice had offered to equip all the volunteers from the D Company who went to the war. (Cheers.) He wanted to go himself, but other people had chosen other ways. The Iron-Bridge Company were sending four competent members to the front, and what he knew of them he was sure Shropshire and England would not be ashamed of them, and that they would uphold the traditions of the “Men of Iron.” (Cheers.) He would ask them to remember that their honour was the company’s honour and also that of the battalion. He hoped God would grant them good health and game return. (Applause.) —The Chairman said they now arrived to the toast of the evening, the health of their friends and comrades who volunteered to go to the front, Messrs. Edwards, Hudson, Boden, and Fletcher, members of the Iron-Bridge Corps. (Applause.) He was glad they had got a send-off for them. He would say God bless their men, and give them a safe return! There might be a V. C. among them, and then they would feel proud of the Iron-Bridge Company. (Applause.) He concluded by making reference to the ambulance men who had already gone to the front. The toast was drunk in a bumper, and Mr. J. W. White sang the “ Soldiers of the Queen,” the chorus being taken up with much gusto.— Lance-Corporal Edwards thanked those present for the kind manner in which they turned out to them that evening. He would say for himself that it was the proudest day of his life. (Cheers.) He should always endeavour to do his duty as an Englishman, and he was sure he would be backed up by his comrades who were going with him. (Applause.)— Lance-Corporal Stodd, in a humorous speech, regretted that he was beneath the standard which prevented him from fighting for his country. (Applause.)— Mr. Robinson recited “The Absent-Minded Beggar,” after which Captain Garnett referred to Corporal Gauton and Lance-Corporal Alcock who volunteered for active service, but owing to circumstances were allowed to remain at home a little longer.— Mr. J. W. White informed the meeting that it was probable Lance-Corporal Stodd would be accepted as an ambulance man for the front. (Cheers.) He concluded by expressing the hope that the heroes that evening would return safe. (Applause.)—Votes of thanks to the committee for providing the pleasant evening, and to the chairman and the host and hostess concluded the toast list. During the evening a collection was made for the four volunteers, which realised £4. Between the toasts songs were given by Messrs. H. Bartlam, H. Felton, H. Pellowe, and Hudson, Messrs. J. W. White and Robinson were the accompanists.

The Iron-Bridge Volunteers had a grand send-off to the front on Tuesday. The band met at the Market Place and played “Rule Britannia,” after which the five volunteers with Captain Garrett marched behind the band to the station to the strains of “Soldiers of the Queen,” followed by crowd of people, many of whom were visibly affected. As the train steamed out of the station, the band played “Auld Lang Syne,” and several friends of the men went as far as Shrewsbury with them.

27^th October 1900

MUCH WENLOCK TOWN COUNCIL

A special meeting of the Council was held on Monday at the Guildhall, when there were present.- Lord Forester (mayor), Aldermen J. A. Anstice, R. E. Anstice, A. R. Dyas, T .H. Thursfield, J. Bodenham, and Councillors Hart, Maddox, Evans, Ayre, Owen, Exley, Instone, Jones, Davies, Mear, Cartwright, Bryan, Legge, Beddoes, Allan and Mr A. Owen,(Deputy clerk).

THE QUESTION OF THE BOROUGH SURVEYOR AND INSPECTOR OF NUISANCES.- Alderman Thursfield read the following report of the Main Roads Committee on the above:- “The question of the appointment of an assistant surveyor and inspector of nuisances having been referred to this committee to consider and report upon to the Council at a special meeting to be held on some date anterior to the 9^th November, the committee held a meeting on Thursday, September 20^th, to consider the question, at which meeting 12 out of the 22 members of the committee were present. After considerable discussion it was unanimously resolved to make the following recommendations to the Council:- 1. To divide the borough into two portions; 2. An officer to be appointed to each portion to fulfil the duties of inspector of nuisances and surveyor for each portion. Mr Stevenson at present holds the officer of inspector on nuisances and highway surveyor to the whole of the borough, his salary as inspector of nuisances being £100 per annum, and his salary of surveyor being also £100. The assistant has £80 per annum. The County Council repay half the salary of inspector on nuisances, so that the cost to the borough is £230 a year. Mr. Stevenson’s appointment as inspector of nuisances can be terminated with the consent of the Local Government Board, and his appointment as surveyor can be terminated at the pleasure of the Council. The committee recommended that portion No. 1 should consist of Madeley and Broseley Wards (comprising the parishes of Madeley and Broseley), containing 8½ miles of main roads and 26 miles of district roads. Portion No. 2 to consist of Wenlock and Barrow Wards (comprising the parishes of Much Wenlock, Barrow, Benthall, Linley, Little Wenlock and Willey), containing 17½ miles of main roads and 50½ miles of district roads. The population of the first portion is 12,210, and that of the second portion 3,493. The committee also recommended that the salary of inspector of nuisances and surveyor for portion No.1 be £200 per annum, and the salary for the similar appointment for portion No. 2 to be £150 per annum, divided thus:- No. 1, inspector of nuisances £100, surveyor £100; No. 2, inspector of nuisances £75, surveyor £75. The cost to the borough would then be £262 10s., as the County Council would repay £87 10s. on the two appointments as inspector if they are approved by the Local Government Board. The committee recommended that Mr. Stevenson be retained as borough surveyor and inspector of nuisances for portion No. 1, an the appointment of an officer for portion No. 2 be filled up after advertisement, it being understood that whoever is appointed be nominally assistant to the borough surveyor and inspector, but that he have full control over his own portion and be answerable to the Council and respective Sanitary Committees. The surveyors and inspectors will be required to devote their whole time to the work of the Council and the respective Sanitary Committees but that Mr. Stevenson be allowed (at the pleasure of the Council) to retain his appointment upon the Iron-Bridge Trust. – THOMAS H. THURSFIELD, Chairman.”- A letter was read form Mr. Prestage making some suggestions with regard to the report.- Mr. Thursfield said the salaries were calculated on the rateable value. If the report was adopted Barrow would have to pay £16 5s. more than at present to the salaries, and Wenlock £27 5s. whilst Madeley would pay £6 11s. less, and Broseley £4 9s. less.- Major Anstice remarked that that was not the intention of the main Roads Committee.- Mr Bodenham: I certainly did not understand it as such, and I shall not support the report.- Mr Thursfield moved that the report be adopted. In seconding the motion, Colonel Anstice observed that the whole question was an exceedingly difficult and complicated one, and he was of the opinion that the safest and wisest course was for them to adopt the report, which the committee had carefully considered. He contended that Mr. Prestage had ample opportunity for bringing forward his suggestions at the committee meeting.- Mr. Bodenham did not like to upset the committee’s work, but he did not understand that extra cost would fall on Barrow and Wenlock Wards, which was a serious matter. He moved as an amendment that the question be reconsidered by the Main Roads Committee.- Mr. Davies concurred with the last speaker’s remarks, and seconded the amendment, which was lost.- Mr Stevenson said he would accept the office as altered.

THE MAYORALITY.- Mr Dayas moved the Mr. Ayre be elected mayor of the Borough at the next meeting.- Colonel Anstice seconded the motion, which was unanimously carried.- Mr. Ayre thanked the Council for the honour conferred upon him.

10th November 1900

BROSELEY.

PETTY SESSIONS.— TUESDAY

Before Lord Forester (mayor), Col. H. Wayne, and Mr. E. W. Shorting.

TOO MUCH ADULTERATION.— Eleanor Pumford, landlady of the Severn Trow, Jackfield, was charged with selling whisky 48½ degrees below proof.— Mr. R. P. Haslewood defended.— Sergeant Tait (Ludlow) stated that he visited the public-house kept by defendant; and paid 1s. 9d. for a pint of whisky. He divided it, and sent a portion of it to the public analyst.— Mr. Haslewood, in pleading guilty, observed that his client ran out of spirits and was supplied with the whisky in question by a local merchant. Defendant had kept the house over 30 years, and never, had a single complaint. She had the name of selling the best of spirits. This was a pure mistake, and she never intended to defraud the public.- The defendant bore out her solicitor’s statement.— She was fined £1 and £1 11s. costs, in distress, or 21 days.

17^th November 1900

JACKFIELD.

ACCIDENT. Early yesterday morning the North Crossing Gate was smashed by a ballast train. It is stated that the man in charge of the crossing failed to open the gate in time for the train to pass.

17^th November 1900

COALPORT

PROMOTION OP THE STATIONMASTER.— Mr. A. Williams, stationmaster, has been promoted to Stirchley, and yesterday week he was entertained to supper by his friends at Coalport at the Brewery Inn. After the repast, Mr. Weyman was voted to the chair, and harmony prevailed. The toast of “Our Guest” was submitted, and acknowledged by Mr. Williams. The singing of the National Anthem, brought a pleasant evening to a close.

17^th November 1900

THE FORESTER CHARITY.

Speaking at the Mayoral dinner at Wenlock yesterday week, Mr. T. H. Thursfield gave some interesting particulars concerning the Forester Charity. He said:— It has been asked “When will the foundation stone of the Forester Cottage Hospital be laid?” I can only say I see no reason why this should not be done in a very short time, but everything depends upon the Court. We are now in exactly the same position with the new plans and tenders that we were in May, 1889, but I may add that I think now we shall not again have to revise our plans. I have personally great pleasure in giving you a short resume of the trust and what has been done, because it has always been a source of gratification to me that I was consulted by Lady Forester about this matter for a long period before her death. It was in May, 1888, that I first heard of the scheme, in a letter from Lady Forester, which I have now. She said “I intend erecting something substantial as a memorial to General Forester, and I think of a cottage hospital at Wenlock. I suppose a nice site is obtainable? What are your views generally on the subject? Who would you suggest as trustees?” From that time to her death I was more or less working at the scheme for her, and it developed as we went on. The first meeting of the trustees was held at Lady Forester’s residence in London in February, 1893, and we then consulted with her generally upon the whole scheme, and went through the notes she had made, and learnt her wishes on the various points. The trustees were Lord Forester, the Hon. W. M. Jervis, General the Hon. Wm. Fielding, Mr. James G. Noel, C.B., and myself. Mary Anne Lady Forester died in March, 1893. The first payment from her executors to the trustees was made in September, 1894. The income has been invested from time to time. There have been very considerable expenses which have been met out of income; still, the sum now considerably exceeds £400,000. The next-of-kin claimed some portion of this sum, and the matter thus pasted into the Court of Chancery, and it was not until July, 1897, that the trustees obtained the final decision that the next-of-kin had not any interest in the fund. In the meantime the trustees had not been idle. They knew that in any case they would have a large sum to deal with. They had visited Llandudno several times, and selected a site of 15 acres, which was purchased in 1894, and has proved a very advantageous purchase. In January 1898, the trustees first found themselves in a position to instruct the architect definitely as to preparing working plans for a convalescent home for 50 beds at Llandudno. In May, 1898, the trustees purchased at Wenlock an excellent site of about 6½ acres from Mr. Gaskell. They have fenced it and planted trees and shrubs and formed the drive, and the Sanitary Authority have undertaken to meet the requirements of the Court as regards water supply and drainage. The architect was at once instructed to prepare working plans for a cottage hospital to contain 12 beds (the number named by Lady Forester) with cots for children. The preparation of the two sets of plans and drawings, with several applications and attendances at the Court, necessarily took up considerable time. The plans were finally laid before the Court and tenders were obtained in May, 1899, but they were in excess of what the Court considered the trustees should expend (considering the number of beds provided), and they were not approved, and in August, 1899, we were instructed by the Court to obtain other plans, which has been done under the direction of the Court. The new plans and tenders for Wenlock are now before the Court, and the trustees hope very shortly to commence building at Wenlock. The plans for the convalescent home at Llandudno are also in a very forward state, and the trustees hope that building will soon commence. The present plans do not follow out such an expensive style of architecture as was suggested by Lady Forester, but they are pleasing in the elevations and extremely well arranged in detail for the requirements. Broseley is not in the same forward position, as the trustees have only just obtained leave to purchase a site. They have agreed to purchase about 4½ acres, and hope to obtain leave to proceed with the building of a cottage hospital there in a short time. The Sanitary Authority have undertaken to meet the requirements of the Court as regards water supply and drainage. In addition to the beds for patients at Wenlock and Broseley the trustees propose to provide a certain amount of accommodation for nurses, for Lady Forester wished to provide some nurses for the surrounding district, and the trustees hope that the Court will allow them to carry out this intention of Lady Forester. At present, however, the object of the trustees is to provide the three institutions at Llandudno, Wenlock, and Broseley, and to endow them. The sole desire of the trustees throughout has been to push forward with the work, and everyone may rest assured that they will use their best endeavour to complete the whole scheme in accordance with Lady Forester’s intentions and with as little delay as possible. They recognise that delay has taken place, but it has been unavoidable. Of the five trustees originally appointed by Lady Forester only two (Lord Forester and myself) remained at the commencement of this year: we therefore in April approached Lord Wenlock and Colonel the Hon. F. C. Bridgeman, who have kindly consented to join us. We feel that we have a record bequest to administer, and we do not wish to deal with it on proper lines, but at the same time we do not mean to be extravagant in any sense of the word, but to provide institutions suited to the needs of those for whom they were intended, and, to use Lady Forester’s own words, “to make them worthy of the object,” which was the memory of George Cecil Weld Third Baron Forester, who represented Wenlock from 1828 to 1874 (when he succeeded his brother in the peerage), and was then Father of the House of Commons. We are often asked what we shall do with the surplus, and we have had many applications for a portion of it. The answer the trustees have always given has been, “Wait till we see if there is a surplus.” Four hundred thousand pounds may seem a vast sum, and so it is, but if any of you consider the cost, not only of the building. but of fully and properly equipping and endowing the three institutions, you will see that it will require a large outlay at first and a large sum annually to carry them through properly for all time. We shall have to consider the future value of money, and provide an ample margin for contingencies of every kind.

24^th November 1900

MUCH WENLOCK.

MR. FRANK C. G. HALL of this town has been made a member of the Parisian Inventors’ Academy and awarded the first class diploma and gold medal merited by his invention of an automatic coupling for railway vehicles, &c,

PETTY SESSIONS.— TUESDAY.

Before Councillor R. F. Ayre (mayor), Colonel J. A. Anstice, Alderman J. Bodenham, and Councillor T. Cooke.

DRUNK IN CHARGE.— Richard Turner was summoned for being drunk when in charge of a horse and carriage at Barrow.— Police-constable Davies gave evidence, and Turner was fined 2s. 6d. and costs.

DRUNK ON LICENSED PREMISES.— Christopher Jones, labourer, Broseley, was summoned for being drunk on the licensed premises of the Lord Hill Inn Broseley.— Sergeant Bowen stated that, hearing some loud talking, he visited the house, and found Jones in the kitchen sitting on a seat drunk. Witness called the landlady’s attention to the state defendant was in, and in his presence she said, “He has got nothing to drink here, and I have ordered him out several times.” Defendant then went home staggering and using bad language, and it was with difficulty that his sister get him in the house.— Defendant, who pleaded not guilty, was fined 2s. 6d. and costs.

MORE FIREWORKS.— George Pinner and William Hill, youths, of Broseley, were charged with letting off fireworks in the street.— Police-constable Davies gave evidence, and the lads were discharged on paying the costs, 7s. 6d. each,

BREACH OF CONTRACT,— Thomas Wylde, charter master for Messrs. W. and P. Jones, brick manufacturers, Jackfield, claimed £1 19s. from Henry Jones for breach of contract.— Wylde stated defendant worked for him as banker, and that he left his employment without giving the necessary 14 days’ notice.— Jones was ordered to pay the damages, £1 19s., and the costs.

24^th November 1900

Letters to the Editor

THE LADY FORESTER BEQUEST.

To THE EDITOR. Sir,— As an old resident in the borough of Wenlock, and one who has taken in the past some small part in its public life, I am extremely obliged for your report of Mr. Thursfields speech at the mayor’s dinner, in which he dealt with the Lady Forester bequest. No doubt others beside myself had looked for any information upon the matter as a sort, of forlorn hope, but I am pleased to say it is one no longer. Evidently the trustees have had many difficulties to contend with, and now their duties seem to lead them along pleasanter paths, I trust to ultimate success. Whilst deserving all praise, as far as they have gone, I cannot help feeling that one part of the borough, and that an important one, has been conscientiously ignored by them. Wenlock and Broseley have evidently been well provided for, but I see no provision in any form for either Madeley, Coalport, Iron-Bridge, Coalbrookdale, or Little Wenlock, and yet these places are quite as much in the borough, and, of the two, more important than either Wenlock or Broseley, whether you take the population or the numbers employed in manufactures. In all these places the working class preponderate, and most of them employed in work both hard and dangerous in its character, and very liable to accidents in spite of all precautions taken. Supposing a miner meets with an accident at Madeley. To benefit at all from the Forester bequest he would have to be carted up to Broseley, a matter of miles. His friends would prefer him taken to his own home, however humble or devoid of appliances it might be, rather than such needless suffering should befall him. The question may be asked how are these cases managed now? Well, you may see poor fellows in a tumbrel cart lying or sitting upon straw being taken to their homes to be attended to by the local medical man. But because this has been so in the past there is no reason for its continuance. Picture the difference to the comfort of an injured man and his possible chance of rapid recovery could he be taken quickly and easily to a well regulated and equipped hospital, where every comfort could be supplied without infringing upon his club money that should go to maintain his wife and family; the satisfaction he would feel at knowing that comfort supplied him was not taking the butter off his children’s bread or the Sunday’s joint off the dinner table. The late Lady Forester, in the goodness of her heart and to perpetuate the memory of her husband (General Forester), left this huge sum of money without a doubt to meet cases of this kind, and alleviate the sufferings of those who were least able to help themselves. Believing that her trustees have every desire to carry out her bequest in this spirit, I now appeal to them, asking that they may see their way to make some provision for the portions of the borough that so far seem to have no share in this bequest. I trust they may see their way to erect, upon a suitable site, on as large a scale as funds and the needs of the district require, a hospital, so that cases from Madeley, Iron-Bridge, and Coalbrookdale may be treated locally without having to undergo the painful process of being carted miles. A hospital erected in the vicinity of Madeley Workhouse would be central for all places and healthy in position.

I regret that circumstances debar me from taking that active part in public life as formerly, but, having broached the subject, trust it may be taken up by those having more opportunities and influence than myself.

Madeley. W. J. JEFFREY.

1st December 1900

BROSELEY.

Old Oak and Mahogany Furniture bought for each or taken in part exchange; best prices given for Old Sliver, China, and Curios.— James Davies, Broseley.

FOREIGN MISSIONS.— The annual meeting in connection with the Wesleyan Foreign Missions was held in the Broseley Wesleyan Chapel on Thursday evening. Mr. J. E. Hartshorne (The Lea) presided. Appropriate addresses were delivered by the Chairman, Rev. W. Crouch of Madeley, and other friends. Suitable hymns were rendered by the choir, and Mr. J. A. Hartshorne presided at the harmonium. A collection was taken at the close of the meeting.

LONDON CITY MISSION.— On Wednesday evening a lime-light lantern lecture was given in Broseley Town Hall. In the unavoidable absence of the Rev. J. W. Johnson (Little Wenlock) Mr. Donald Prestage introduced Mr. C. H. Bryn (one of the London City Missioners), who, in the unavoidable absence of Mr. A. T. A. Millership (county secretary of the society) gave an interesting lecture on the work of the society. There was a fair attendance, and a collection was taken on behalf of the society.

FOREIGN MISSIONS. — On Sunday appropriate sermons were preached (morning and evening) Broseley Wesleyan Chapel by the Rev. Robert Dillon of Bridgnorth. Suitable hymns were well rendered by the choir, and Mr. J. A. Hartshorne presided at the harmonium. There was a good congregation at each service, especially in the evening, when the chapel was fairly well filled, and collections were taken in behalf of the Wesleyan Foreign missionary Society.

FUNERAL.— The remains of the late Mrs. Emma Maria Instone, wife of Mr. Thomas Instone, High Street, Broseley, were interred in Broseley Cemetery on Friday week. The funeral service was performed by the Rector (the Rev. G. F. Lamb. M.A.). The deceased, who was 51 years of age, had several paralytic seizures, from which she died on the 20th ult. As a mark of respect most of the tradesmen en route to the cemetery put their shutters up. A large number of beautiful wreaths were sent by relatives and sympathising friends.

1st December 1900

JACKFIELD.

ENTERTAINING A SOLDIER. — At the Black Swan Inn on Saturday Private T. Hill of the 2nd Shropshire Regiment, who has lately returned from the war, was entertained to supper by a few of his workmates. The cloth being removed, Mr. W. Taylor was voted to the chair, and Mr. W. Perkins was vice-chairman. Songs were given by Messrs. W. Perkins, A. Bunnagar, G. Perks, A. Hewitt, W. Taylor, H. Aston, J. Poole. C. Jones, S. Harrington, &c. The toast of the “Imperial Forces” was given, and Private Hill replied in an interesting speech.— A vote of thanks was accorded to the chairman for presiding.

1st December 1900

Letters to the Editor

BROSELEY OLD MARKET.

To THE EDITOR. Sir,— I should like to ask through the medium of your paper, if it is possible to re-start the old market once again on Saturday nights? I think it is unpleasant to know that large numbers of Broseley people are doing nearly all their business in neighbouring towns. I think that if our tradespeople could form themselves into a market committee no one would or could put any obstacle in their way to help to make our old town as enter-prising as in former years.

Nov. 28th, 1900. ANXIOUS ONE.

BROSELEY SCHOOLS.

To THE EDITOR. Sir,— Just recently there has been an appeal by the managed of the Broseley National Schools for subscriptions to enable them to carry on those schools. One of the reasons, I believe, is to avoid having a School Board thrown upon us. As a subscriber of late I shall be greatly pleased to see a School Board established, and I believe many other ratepayers as well, for many reasons too numerous to mention in this letter. We should then be able to have a voice in its management.

A SUBSCRIBER.

8^th December 1900

SUDDEN DEATH MR. EXLEY
OF BROSELEY.

The sudden death of Mr. Joseph Arrowsmith Exley, which took place last night week at his residence, The Rock House, Broseley, created quite a sensation in the neighbourhood. Deceased, a strong healthy-looking man, was a few minutes before his death conversing with a particular friend, when suddenly he was taken ill, and expired before the arrival of a doctor.

Mr. Exley was a member of the old Broseley Local Board and Burial Board, and for many years was alderman of the Wenlock Town Council, and represented the Broseley Ward. He rarely missed a meeting, and more than once he was offered the mayoralty, but declined the honour. He was a brick-and-tile manufacturer, and carried on an extensive business at Jackfield and Aldridge (Stafford). He was widely known and esteemed for his upright character and sterling sincerity. Being of strong business instincts and somewhat brusque carriage, with a decided impatience of idleness, he was often misunderstood, but in reality possessed beneath that apparently uncompromising exterior a warm, kind heart. His quiet, unassuming ways of helping the needy were known only to a few. As a friend he was ever homely and genial, sincere and true; his word could be always trusted, and those who knew him best will cherish an affectionate, remembrance of his constancy. He will be a missed man in various spheres of duty and usefulness, but most of all in a hitherto unbroken and happy family. He leaves a widow, five sons, and three daughters to mourn his loss.

The funeral took place on Tuesday afternoon in the presence of a large number of sorrowing friends at Broseley Cemetery, when the service was very impressively conducted by the Rev. A. Shinn (Nonconformist minister, Northampton, late of Broseley). Deceased was buried in a new brick family vault. The order of procession was as follows: — Councillor R. F. Ayre (mayor of Wenlock), Aldermen A. B. Dyas, J. Bodenham, G. Lloyd, Councillors P. Jones, T. Cooke, F. J. Hart, R. A. Instone, W. Allen, F. G. Beddoes, D. L. Prestage, W. Mean, W. E. Southorn, Mr. A. Owen (deputy clerk). In the first coach were Messrs, Arthur Exley, Fred. Exley, Harry Exley, Harold Exley, Ernest Exley (sons); in the second Messrs. E. J. Exley, C. J. Exley, W. H. Exley (brothers), and J. E. Dyson; in the third Messrs. G. N. Adams, T. B. Adams, H. Burnet, J. Edge; and in the fourth Messrs, T. Gilbert, E. J. Burnet, and W. F. Clark. There were also present:- The Rev. Marsden Edwards, Rev. W. Prothero, Dr. Collins, Messrs, W. Jones, A. Jones, A. Burnett, C. W. Pearce, T. Bailey, T. Doughty, G. L. Gray, R. D. Haughton, G. H. Maw, T. E. Patten, W. Edge, W. Smith, R. Duncan, J. Ledger, J. Dixon, E. Oakes, B. Hughes, T. Griffiths, S. Davies, E. Davies, W. Griffiths, G. Moore, Geo. Ledger, sen., and Geo. Ledger, jun., J. P. G. Smith, A. Grant, A. Evans, P. Weston, E. F. Groves, T. E. Patten, T. R. Burroughs, E. W. Shorting, E. B. Potts, J. Bayley (Wellington College), W. Francis, J. Lloyd, A. Ball, A. G. Lascalles (representing Lord Forester), W. Bates, G. Clarke, J. Garbett, E. Woof, M. Jones, A. Dixon, F. Chubb, C. W. Coldicott, Broadhurst, E. Stephan, J. Jenks, J. H. Jones, J. Downes then followed the workpeople that the graveside the Rev. A. Shinn observed that they had just committed to Mother Earth a good father, and he hoped that the sons would cherish his memory and follow his example. He was a good husband and good husbands should be honoured for their examples. Lovely wreaths were contributed by Mr. and Mrs. T. Barker, Rev. J. and Mrs. Marsden Edwards, Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Ledger (Shrewsbury), teachers of Jackfield School, mother, brothers, and sisters, Mrs. Moore and family, Mr. George Higgins, Mr. and Mrs. A. Grant, widow and family, Edith, Charlie, and little Kathleen. During the obsequies the shops in the town were partially closed, as well as the works. After the service muffled peals were rang from the church bells. Messrs. Ledger and Ledger, Shrewsbury and Broseley, carried out the funeral arrangements in a satisfactory manner.

At St. Mary’s Church, Jackfield, on Sunday, before the commencement of evensong, the organist played the “Dead March” (Saul), the congregation all standing; and the Rector alluded to the lamented death of Mr. J. A. Exley as being a loss to the parish. He always took a kindly interest in the day schools, being one of the managers, and in promoting every good work.

15^th December 1900

BROSELEY.

Old Oak and Mahogany Furniture bought for cash or taken in part exchange; best prices given for Old Silver, China, and Curios.— James Davies, Broseley

LATE ALDERMAN EXLEY.— It is stated that this gentleman did not expire before the arrival of a doctor as reported, Dr. Collins was with him an hour before he died.

THE LATE MR. EXLEY.— On Sunday sermons were preached in Birch Meadow Baptist Chapel by Mr. Smith of Bilston, in the course of which the preacher made touching reference to the death of the late Mr. J. A. Exley, who had been a regular attendant at this place of worship for some years and a liberal supporter of the cause. Appropriate hymns were sung, and Mr. George Taylor, who presided at the harmonium, played the “Dead March in “Saul” at the close of each service.

A BANKRUPT. At the Bankruptcy Court at Madeley, on Wednesday, Mr. R. A. Jervis, Broseley, attended for his first public examination. The summary statement of his affairs showed gross liabilities amounting to £277 12s. 3d., expected to rank £270 2s. 5d., which was claimed by 12 creditors, none of whom were secured. The assets were estimated to produce £50 7s. 6d.; deficiency £227 4s. 9d. Bankrupt was examined by Mr. Frank Cariss, assistant official receiver. Questioned as to a certain sum of £337, which had been expended, and of which no explanation had been given, the debtor said he was unable to account for it, but supposed it had gone in expenses connected with the business.— The examination was adjourned.

SALE OF WORK.— A very successful sale of work took place on Wednesday in the Wesleyan Schoolroom in aid of the organ and renovation fund connected with the chapel. There was a large and varied assortment of useful and fancy articles very tastefully arranged on the various stalls. The sewing meeting stall was under the care of Mrs. Edge, Mrs. Jones, Miss Edge, and Miss Price, and Mrs. J. E. Hartshorne, Misses Jones, Hartshorne and Blackford had charge of the rummage stall, Messrs. Hartshorne and Blackford were responsible for the china stall, and Mr. W. Edge, sen., devoted his attention to the greengrocery stall. The Misses D. Aston, A. Jones, and F. Oakley superintended the bran tub, and the refreshments stall had the capable attention of Mrs. Taylor, Mrs. Jones, and Mrs. E. R. Hartshorne. Vocal and instrumental music was given at intervals; Messrs. F, Glover and T. Denstone contributing a flute duet. Solos were also well rendered by Mr. E. R. Hartshorne, and a quartet by Miss Edge and Messrs. W. Edge, jun., and E. R. Hartshorne. Mr. J. A. Hartshorne accompanied on the harmonium. There was a good attendance.

15^th December 1900

THE WILLEY BEAGLES,

I had a red-letter day on Saturday at that pleasurable meeting the Dunge, near Broseley. The master arrived a trifle late, but bade all a hearty welcome. Leading us quietly on we were soon rewarded by seeing one nimble of foot up and away, making for the brickkiln with the pack close at her heels and the field in hot pursuit. Judiciously left to their devices, they routed puss out on to the meadow land adjoining, at the rear of the Dunge, again crossing the Batches, right away for Mr. Mears, on in the direction of the old pit at Caughley. This run was worth all the toil of getting here to see, and this idea was echoed by all who, were fortunate enough to witness it. A check here for a short time, when a well-known “holloa” was heard, quickly responded to, and again we had a rare view of hounds going for life and for one death back over the old country, wheeling round returning to the Tar Pits Dingle, on to Mr. Walker’s farm, the Innets, where we were most hospitably entertained. The hare here no doubt crossed the garden, as she had previously taken refuge in Mr. Mear’s stackyard. Master and hounds stuck to her bravely, and eventually the master’s private business precluding a prolongation of our splendid sport, we cried very willingly “enough.” In the field, including the master, were the ever-genial welcome friend and true sportsman, Mr. E. B. Potts, the Misses Potts (3), Mr. Tom Griffiths, Mr. T. Francis, the redoubtable “Joe,” and an array of boyish, yet true sports that convinced you that the love of honest sport is deeply engraven on the English heart.

OLD SPORT.