The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

ABERYSTWYTH. COUNTY COURT, FRIDAY, AUGUST 9TH.—Before his Honour Judge David Lewis. Administration,— Mr F. R. Roberts applied for an Administration.-M,r F. R. Roberts applied for an order in the matter of Eleanor Jones, deceased, Fair- rhos, in the terms of the Registrar's order.—Mr Hugh Hughes, for the plaintiff, supported the order, and it was granted.-The value of the estate was £ 219. In the matter of Elizabeth Jones v. Morgan, Mr Hugh Hughes applied for extension of time, and it was granted to the October Court. Davies v. Lloyd.—Isaac Davies, mariner, Vulcan- street. summoned John LI. Lloyd, grocer, St. James's- square, for 15s for a ton of coal supplied.-The defence I was that the coal was supplied to Madam Lloyd whom the Judge said he had heard of before.—Judgement was given for defendant. Williams v- Jones.—John Williams, mason, Tanquarel, Bronant, sued David Jones, farmer, Bronfynwent, for 16 damages alleged to have been sustained by sheep trespass, and defendant counter- claimed 1-7 7s 6d— £ 4 7s 6d amount of unsatisfied judgement, and £ 3 damages alleged to have been sustained by trespass by plaintiff.—Mr T. J. Samuel, Bethesda, appeared for plaintiff, and Mr R. G. Smith for defendant.—Mr Samuel stated that in 1892 a claim was mide on defendant for sheep trespass and about £ 5 was paid. In 1893 an action was brought for sheep trespass, and that action was deferred. The present claim was for trespass from April 1S93 up to the present time.—Plaintiff said he rented land from his brother at ;CIO., and kept two cows. Defendant's sheep trespassed on his land from April up to the present time. Each time he Faw the sheep trespassing he made a note of it in a book produced. The names "Dafydd" and "Mary" were the names of defendant'a wife and servant man whom he had seen taking the sheep away after they had trespassed. He charged 3d a head.-Cross- examined There was an action brought against him by defendant in 1S94 for cutting down his (defendant's) fence, and judgement was given for defendant. Some of that judgment had not been satisfied. He did not think j64 had not been paid. He did not counter- claim then for sheep trespass in 1893 as Mr Hughes, his solicitor, said he could not counter-claim, but must bring an action.—In reply to the Judge, Mr Smith stated there had been no appreciable trespass by defendants sheep. He admitted there was trepass in April, but as soon as the sheep were seen they were taken off and the damage did not exeeed 5s.—In further reply to the Judge, who said he could not re-open old affair?, M Samuel said there had been trespass by 171 sheep up to July.—In continued cross-examination, plaintift ad- mitted that he had sent in no claim to defendant but his lawyer sent in a claim about May or June. Though they were neighbours, they did not live on good terms. He had been hound over in respect of defendant, but he would not willingly admit that he had forfeited his recognizances. David Jones had not put up a lot of fencing, but he (plaintiff) had. His fence was not in- tended to keep defendant's sheep out but to keep his (plaintiff's) cattle in. Defendant had put up new fencing, but it was in the middle of his own land.—The Judge asked why defendant should put up a fence in the middle of his own land, and plaintiff said I can't say indeed."—At this point, the Judge allowed time for investigation of books; observing that one of the books appeared to be a sort of ledger.—On resumption of the case, Mr Smith cross-examined and showed that the entries had been made by others than plaintiff, and that the books had been lying about the house.-The Judge said the irregular way in which the book was kept was evidence of authenticity than other- wise. Farmers did not keep books with the regularity of ordinary business men.-Plaintifra daughter, a girl of sixteen, who could not give her evidence in English, said on going to school she saw defendant's sheep which were trespassing being driven off.—In reply to Mr Smith, witness said it was in the winter, but she did not know of which year. She ultimately said it was the winter before last, and she thought the last winter as well.—In reply to the Judge, witness said it was in amser eira. "-On being asked by Mr Smith how many sheep she saw, said she did not know how many sheep or whose sheep they were, but on going into the house from school she mentioned the fact that sheep were trespassing.—Catherine Jones, wife of Thomas Jone3, Brynamlwg, said she saw sheep trespassing many times.—Cross-examined She was some relation of John Williams's. She had seen them in the spring of this year. It was no business of hers to tell defendant.—By the Judge: The fence was not good enough to keep the sheep out.—Thomas Morgans, mason and farmer, Talfryn, said he saw sheep tres- passing in January, and told the man who was looking after the sheep of the fact and he went in that direc- tion.—William Owen, Garregwen, on being sworn to speak the truth, remarked "That is wanted."—The Judge having chalacterized him as the comic man of the case, witness said he saw one sheep trespassing with a pitch-mark like a pair of spectacles.—Benjamin Morgan, who was described by Mr Samuel as The son of Brynucha Farm," a young man who could not give his evidence in English, also gave evidence as to seeing sheep trespassing. He also said he was friendly to defendant.—Mr Samuel having intimated that the witness, on account of his friendliness to defendant, was a hostile witness and that he had given a different number of times of trespass to him (Mr Samuel) that morning than he ap- peared willing to give in evidence, the Judge said he would believe none of it and struck the lot out.-John Jones, farmer, having given evidence of trespass, closed the plaintiffs case,—Mr Smith, for the defence, called the plaintiff by leave for cross-examination, when plaintiff denied that his cattle trespassed on defendant's land in November. He had no sheep at the time his sheep were said to have trespassed in April of this year.—David Jones, the defendant, said the plaintiff's cattle trespassed on his land in Novem- ber. Saw them himself. Sheep were also trespassing and plaintiff was after them." An attempt had been made to get a joint fence and the landlord was willing to pay a share. Plaintiff, however, refused to join.— The Judge observed that both sides seemed to fight shy of the fence question. The common law liability was that a man must put up a fence through which his animals could not get on to his neighbour's land. Defendant replied that he had put up a fence, but the plaintiff had pulled it down. The damage by the sheep was calculated at 3d a head. The damage by cattle was more than 6d as they trespassed in swedes- half-a-crown each. -The Judge said there were thirty- two days by cattle and twenty-six days by sheep.—Mr Smith having proved the balance due for judgment unsatisfied, the Judge said he would give judgment for the defendant for the amount claimed on that account.—In cross- examination by Mr Samuel, defendant said he had made notes of the trespass, but the book was at home. A copy was in court.—Daniel Jones, father of David Jones, said that sheep came to Brynfynwent in October of last year. They were away on the moun- tains afterward for some time. He had gone to fetch sheep back from Tanquarrel and found that they were not his son's sheep, but somebody else's.—Cross- examined His sheep were marked by the figure of spectacles. The sheep which were said to be his belonged to Hafod. Saw the cattle in the swedes once.—Margaret Davies, Pengraig, was called to prove that she saw Tanquarrel cattle being driven off defen- dant's land, but Mr Samuel got her willingly to admit that she was a tenant of defendant's.—Daniel Jones was recalled and said he knew it was plaintiff's sheep he saw in April as they were upon his land, but Mr Samuel said it was sheep belonging to plaintiff's son. The Judge gave a verdict for f I on each side. Griffith v. WiUiams.—John Griffith, retired merchant, Bow Street, sued Hugh Williams, Gwastad, Borth, for dEl 6a for lime.—Mr Hugh Hughes appeared for plain- tiff defendant was not legally represented.—Mr Wm Jones, Brynowen, on leaving the place, let the farm by fields. Defendant took one field on condition that-the landlord supplied for it four tons of lime. The order for lime was given to plaintiff. Instead of four tons, however, Oe ton twelve hundredweight more was delivered. Defendant then told plaintiff he would take the lot and if the landlord would not pay for the whole he (defendant) would. The landlord would only pay for the four tons.-David Jones, Aberceiro, the Brynowen agent, said defendant wanted him to pay for the whole but be declined.—Defendant denied that he had spoken to the agent in respect of the matter.—Judgment was given for the amount claimed. Ba)ak,rtil)tcy.-Alr Hugh Hughes applied for the dis- charge of Thomas Hughes, bankrupt under the 1869 Act.—The matter having been carried on under the 1869 Act, no report was made by the Official Receiver, and no creditor opposing, the Judge granted immediate discharge. b' RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL, MONDAY, AUGUST 12TH.—Present Mr James Jones, Tyllwyd, chair- man, presiding Mr J. M. Williams, Ynysybwl, vice-chairman Messrs John Jones, Caelanymaes- mawr T. R. Morgan and Lewis Richards, Cwm- rheidol; Hugh James, Cyfoethybrenin J. B. Morg m, Cynnullmawr John Morris, HenlJys W. A. Miller, Issayndre William Mason, Llaucynfelin Thomas Powell, Llanfihangel Upper David Davies, Llanfihangel Lower E. J. Evans. Llangwyryfon Daniel Morris, Llanilar; FvanLewis.Llanrhystya Haminiog; Charles Davies, Llanychaiarn Thomas James, and Richard Davies, Trefeirig; Mr Hugh Hughe?, clerk; Mr J. Rowlands, sanitary inspector. .Finaitce.-The Finance Committee, which met in the morning, submitted bills in respect of roadmen's wages and other claims, and recommended their payment.— The recommendation was adopted. Enc;-oacli,me)qt. -With regard to the encroachment on the road by the river near Moriah, the Surveyor (Mr Morgan Davies) submitted an estimate of the probatle cost of the repair of the damaged road, amounting to i ;ES.-A letter was read from Mr Powell, Nanteos, agreeing to contribute f.4 towards the work.—The offer was accepted.—On the proposition of Mr Thomas James, the Surveyor was directed to carry out the necessary work.—A communication was read from the Parish Council of Llangwryfon, calling attention to an encroachment by the river to some waste land near Troedyfoel Farm in that parish.—On the proposition of Mr E. J. Evans, seconded by Mr Charles Davies, the Surveyor (Mr Morgan Davies), was directed to demand possession of the land from the Parish I Council. Petition.-The petition to be presented to the County Council urging them to transfer the maintenance 01 tne roads in the Aberystwyth District to the Rural Dis- trict Council was submitted.—On the proposition of Mr Miller, the seal of the Council was affixed to the petition, and the Clerk w as directed to forward it to the County Council forthwith. Proponed New Road.- With regard to the new road which it is proposed to construct through the parish of Caelanymaesmawr, the Rev J. Davies, chairman of the Parish Council attended, and said he was present at the joint committee of members of the Rural Dis- trict Council and Parish Council of Caelanymaesmawr, which met at Talybont. They considered the question of the new road, and they decided to have it con- structed. He had been asked to attend that meeting to explain matters, if necessary.—Mr J. M. Williams said he was a member of the Committee which met at Talybont to consider this matter and, in fact, he voted in favour of constructing the road as planned by the Surveyor, although he had not visited the place. He was subsequently persuaded, however, to visit the line of the new road, which he did, and he had come to the conclusion that if the old road through the valley up to the mine was repaired it would be more suitab'e to the neighbourhood.—Tne Rev J. Davie3 pointed out that only three farms would benefit by making the road, whereas if the new road was constructed all the parish would be 'benefited.-The Sur. veyor estimated the cost of making the new roa.d at £ 14 10s. for a length of 450 yards.—Mr J. M. Williams did not think it could be made for that amount as the ground was peaty and would require a large quantity of metalling.—Mr Mason agreed.—Mr John Jones also said that the road through the valley, if put in proper state,would bemorecouveuient forthe parish than the proposed new road.—Mr J. B. Morgan pointed out that the Parish Council favoured the new road as being more convenient for the use of the parish and thought the Council should resolve to construet the new road. To repair the old road would be much more expensive than constructing the new road, there- fore he proposed that the new road be constructed ae- cording to the plan submitted, and that the portion of the road to Parcbach be properly repaired. —Mr Mason seconded the proposition.—Mr J. M. Evans remarked that the Council would form a different opinion of the proposed new road if they visited the spot through which it was proposed to run it.—The proposition was agreed to. Llangwyryfon Bridge.—The Surveyor submitted his estimate of £ 23 for the erection of a stone bridge over a stream in this parish, as requested at a previous Council.—Mr J. B. Morgan asked if a Committee was not appointed to consider this matter, and the Chair- man replied that he did not know.—Mr J. B. Morgan (reflectively) I believe a Committee was appointed.—Mr E. J. Evans stated that he was one of a Committee of three delegated to consider this question, but he was the only one who turned up on the appointed day. There was no doubt a bridge should be erected on accouut of the heavy traffic on the road, which ran through the stream. After a flood the road was much damaged and in winter it was impassable owing to the stream being frozen, which was very dangerous.—Mr Evan Lewis, on being asked his opinion relative to the subject, re- marked that a worse state of things existed in his parish.—The Chairman invited a proposition, remark- ing that unless a proposal was made the matter would fall through and could not be again raised for six months.—After a pause Mr E. J. Evans moved that a I bridge be erected, whereupon the Chairman said it was too late and the matter would have to stand in abey- ance for six months.—Mr Evans observed the Chair- man's ruling was unfair, and the subject was then dropped. Llyniardde.—The Surveyor also submitted an estim- ate for the erection of a bridge at the above place, amounting to f24, but as no one took notice of the matter it was allowed to drop. Motion.-In accordance with a notice previously given, Mr David Davies moved that a former resolu- tion that the workmen should work until six o'clock on Saturday be rescinded and that the workmen be allowed to cease work at four o'clock.— Mr Thomas Powell seconded the proposition, which, after some I discussion, was carried. Inspector's Rep-rt.-The Inspector submitted his monthly report, and instructions were given thereon. In regard to the proposed drainage of Pwllhobi, he suggested the appointment of a Committee to visit the place and report. He stated that he had found that the cesspools, which at first it was proposed to make would be flooded in winter, therefore he suggested that a Committee be appointed to consider this ques- tion.—Mr J. M.Williams proposed that the sugges- tion be adopted, and it was agreed to.—Messrs W. A. Miller, Simon, and David Lloyd were appointed to constitute the Committee for the purpose. Slaughter Houses.—The names of persons applying for licenses for slaughter-houses were submitted by the Surveyor, and the Council fixed the sum of 5s for each license. PETTY SESSIONS, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4TH.— Present|:—John Morgan, J. J. Griffiths, C. M. Williams, and Thomas Hugh Jones, Esqrs. Adiournedo-The case against Benjamin Davies, Brewer-street, who was charged by his wife with assault was further adjourned for a week.—The cases against Edw. E, Jenkins, Talybont, for deserting the Militia, and against Wm. Foley, 158 High-street, Aston, Bir- mingham, with neglecting to maintain his wife, were also adjourned for a wc'ek. Drunk and Disorderly.-Robert Williams, St. James's-square, barber, was charged by P.C. Edwards with having been drunk and disorderly at Aberystwyth on the 6th August.—Fined 5s. and costs. Assaulting the Police.—David Griffiths, South-road, foundryman, was charged by P.C. Edwards with having assaulted him while in the execution of his duty on the 6tb August.—Defendant said that he accidentally struck complainant instead of the last defendant.—The Bench took this view of the case, and inflicted a fine of 5s. including costs. COUNTY POLICE COURT, TUESDAY, AUGUST 13TH. -Before Dr Gilbeitson and David Thomas, Esqrs. Larceny. -Llewelyn Owens, Corris, Merionethshire, labourer, was charged by David Edwards, Black Lion Hotel, Talybont, postboy, with having stolen three- and-a-half ounces of tobacco of the value of Is., on August 12th.-Accused, who said he was eighteen years of age, admitted the charge.-The' Bench fined the accused £ 1 including costs, and allowed him four- teen days to pay.

LIFEBOAT SATURDAY. On Saturday, August 10th, a "Lifeboat Saturday" was held here in aid of the funds of the local branch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, and the movement turned out; to be a success, financially and otherwise. At half-past one o'clock, before an immense concourse of people, the lifeboat was launched into the estuary where, subsequently, the crew exercised for an hour. Eventually the boat was moored in the estuary in front of the quay and aquatic sports were held. During the sports collections were made by ladies and others on behalf of the Institution. The proceeds taken by Studt's switchback railway between 5-30 and 7-30 in the evening, were generously handed over in aid of the deserving cause by the manager. Shortly after three o'clock the first race came off, and the proceedings terminated at about quarter-past five. There was a large number of entries in each race, and the competition was keen in each event. The boats sailed well under a stiff breeze which blew across the estuary in a southerly: direction, and a large amount of interest was manifested in the pace of the various boats. The duck hunt caused much amusement. Mr Hugh Davies, who rowed a small punt, made an excellent duck. Mr Wm. Garnett was the only person who took to the water in this event. Garnett reclined in the bow of a large boat and was rowed after the punt, which at times got into dangerous proximity to the large boat, and it looked as if the duck would be caught. Davies, however, proved himself to be an old bird." As soon as the large boat got within arm's length of the punt, Davies would quickly mancevour aside and get away while the other boat was turning round to renew the attack. Garnett eventually made Davies's position so warm that the latter had to withdraw from the punt and take to the water. Garnett thereupon took possession of the punt and made progress to the floating oars with his hands which he used in the punt as paddles. He subsequently suc- ceeded in reaching the oars and he immediately rowed down the estuary after the duck. When he got abreast the duck dived underneath the punt much to the chagrin of the pur- suer and to the delight of the spectators, who appeared to be thoroughly enjoying the hunt. After several unsuccessful attempts, Garnett succeeded in taking hold of Davies, who was hanging on to the side of the boat and to establish a firm hold, got into the water.—After a short struggle, during which the punt got filled with water, Garnett bagged his prize and took it ashore, after a hunt lasting for about ten minutes. Mr Rees Jones was starter, and Mr John Lloyd, GJany- werydd-terrace, secretary of the movement. The following are the results DOUBLE SCULLING RACE—Five entries.-I Eva," manned by Messrs John Davies, W. Garnett, and David Jones (cox); 2, Annie," J. Davies, Robert Jones, and John Morris (cox). SINGLE SCULLING RACE—Three entries.—1, Nellie 2, Love (R. Jones). PUNT RACE—Fourteen entries.—1, Chotah (D. Jones and R. Jones) 2, Euclid (H. Lloyd and J. Davies). FOUR-OARED WATERMEN'S RACE—Two entries.—1, Moris- tella (J. Davies, Evan Evans, D. Jones and F. Morris, cox) 2, Ethel (Robert Jones, Robert Jones, Edward Jones, Dd. Jones, and John Jones, cox). DUCK HUNT-One entry.—1, Wm. Garnett. SWIMMIG RACE (for boys under sixteen years of age)—Five entries .-I, Rowland Lloyd 2, Edward Price. The total amonnt collected by the young ladies and others is ex- pected to be over £75. Great pruse i? due to the Chairman of the Local Lifeboat Committee (Mr Alsopp), Major Best, and the Hon. Sec. for the pains they took in bringing the movement to' such a successful issue.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD ENQUIRY. On Wednesday morning Mr John Bird Clerke, M.Inst.C.E., Local Government Board inspector, attended at the Masonic Hall to enquire into an appli. cation by Barmouth District Council for power to borow;C300 for worksofstreetimprovement and £ 5.000 for the purposes of their water undertaking. The District Council was represented by Mr W. George, their clerk, Mr Thomas Roberts, C.E., Portmadoc, their consulting engineer, and Mr T. Blackburn, their surveyor, Among those present were Mr E. Morgan, Machynlleth, district auditor, Alderman Lewis Lewis, J.P., the Rev E. Hughes, Mr W. J. Morris, J.P., Dr H. J. Lloyd, J.P., Mr John Evans ( ll, Porkington), Councillors John Parry, H. Wynne Williams, John Richards (Porkington),Capt Hugh Morris, G. E. Owen, John Adams, Messrs John Evans (Glanymor), John Jones (Brynteg), M. J. Morris (Glaoglasfor), Owen Owens, Robert Jones (Bank), David Davies (Beach. road). Meredith Evans, Pennant James, solicitor ;*the Rev Tobias Roberts, E. M. Evans, architect, Robert Griffith, Park-road, and others. Mr W. George stated that he made apolication for E300 for streets improvement at Aberamffra. In reply to the Inspector, Mr George stated that E180 had already been spent on the work. Mr Blackburn produced the plan, and stated that the work was very necessary as the road was narrow and there were sharp corners. In reply to the Inspector, Mr George stated that there might be some assistance by way of money by the County Council, and if that was paid it would be placed to the credit of the work. On its being pointed out that the Local Board had first applied for JE200, Mr George said that JE300 was necessary, and that the Council had resolved to obtain +hat sum. The Inspector having asked if anyone had anything to say and there being no response, remarked that he supposed he might take it that it was an unopposed application, to which Mr George assented, adding that the land for the widening of the road was given free of charge by Mr Ricketts, and it was an implied con. dition that the work was to be gone on with at once. There was also a desire to provide work for the unem- ployed. The Inspector observed that the Local Government Board's circular had been generally misunderstood. It was thought that authorities had power to go on with the work at once, whereas it was intended that the usual course should be gone through, Mr George then opened the application for £ 5,000 for water works. He said that the present works were carried out in 1874 or 1875. Since then the town had grown in every way. The population had grown from 1,512 to 2,500, and the number of visitors from 5,000 or 6,000 to 9,000. The Rector and others thought the estimates of visitors too high, but Mr George said that those were the figures given him. Continuing, he said the ratable value for 1873 was £2,500, and in 1895 £8,786 plus f.370 for new houses, or a total of 99.156. The Bar- mouth Water Act was obtained in 1891. The work commenced in 1893 and continued until October 1894. Six miles of pipes had been laid, the whole of the pipes obtained as well as land and water rights, and £ 19,997 had been spent. By the Act the sum of £5,000 could be further borrowed with the consent of the Local Government Board, and that was the object of the enquiry. The Inspector asked where the difference had been obtained between the amount loaned by the Economic Society and the amount expended, and Mr George replied that a temporary loan had been obtained from the North and South Wales Bank. The Inspector said the estimate being £ 26,000 to complete the works, there would be a deficiency of £ 1,000. Tho Local Government Board were limited to the additional £ 5,000 only and if more was wanted additional powers would have to be obtained. Mr Thomas Roberrs, the engineer, in reply to Mr George thought it essential in the interest of the town that the work should be completed. In reply to the Inspector, Mr Roberts said a part of the foundation of the dam had been got in. The contents of the reservoir would be one million gallons, forty-eight million of which would have to go for compensation water. In the course of makiog arrangements for inspection of the works, the Inspector said the scheme had not been before the Local Government Board as the Local Board had got their power to borrow in another way. He therefore must make careful inspection. Asking why the works were suspended in 1394, Mr George repplied that the works were becoming more expensive than was anticipated and the Council wished to know where they could obtain more money before proceeding further. The place was outlandish also and it was getting late in the year for the work. The Inspector asked if there was any failure-any technical failure ? Mr George replied that the work wa3 undertaken by day work by the Local Board, who could stop it at any moment. In further reply to the Inspector, the Engineer said there would be 400 feet head of water on the town supply. He believed the main pipes would stand that head, but the service would probably go. There was, however, a high point to be served in the town, and it I was desirable to command it. The Inspector said he had no objection to th £ pressure, only everything would have to be fitted for it. Referring to filtration, the Engineer said that alterations had been made in the method whereby a saving had been effected. The Inspector observing that pure water should need no filtration, Mr Blackburn said it was not a question of purity but of colour only.—The Engineer said the amount of com- pensation water was 480,000 gallons per day. Dr Lloyd asked if it was necessary to have a service reservoir in addition to the Ceil wart reservoir, whereas Festiniog had none at all ? Was it necessary also to have the filter beds ? The Engineer said the service reservoir was neces- sary, and the filter beds were necessary to take out discolouration by peate. In reply to the Inspector, the Engineer said the Ceilwart reservoir was 151 feet only above Barmouth and would not command the highest point*. In reply to the Rev E. Hughes, the Engineer said that f249 was wanted to complete the service reservoir. The pipes were now laid up to the lake. Dr Lloyd asked why there were so many pillars in the reservoir ? Tne Inspector said he had not seen the place, but they were for carrying the roof. (Laughter.) Dr Lloyd added that there were twenty-four pillars and they were very strong. Mr Blackburn said, in reply to Mr George, that the completion of the works was absolutely essential for Barmouth. The Rev E. Hughes also emphasized the need, re- marking that:for four years house accommodation for visitors had been provided at the rate of 500 a year. It was not quite as great last year. The progress, in fact, had been phenomenal. Barmouth was mainly de- pendent upon its suecess as a health resort. It was particularly suitable for a winter resort. Not a mo- ment was to be lost in completing the work. In reply to questions, the Engineer said the work could be completed in six months. A letter having been referred to from Mr Alsopp relative to the pre- cariousness of the present supply, Mr George said it was not necessary to go into that matter except to show the necessity for completing the new works as soon as possible. The Inspector said he would go carefully over the water works on Friday, and the enquiry terminated.

ABERAYRON. AN EISTEDDPOD LAUREL.—The local united choir won a prize of B15 15s. for the best rendering of Dattod mae rhwymau" out of five choirs at the Cross Inn Eisteidfod on Friday, August 9th. Mr James Williams, headmaster of the British School, conducted. The choir numbered fifty-one persons. After the prize had been won the choir, at the invita- tion of the condujtor, repaired to the Cross Inn School- room. There the conductor placed the prize at the absolute disposal of the choir. Mr John M. Howell complimented M. Williams on his victory and on his public spirit in placing the prize at the disposal of the choir. He proposed that five guineas be divided among the choir to pay the entrance fees to the Eisteddfod that five guineas be given to the funds of the British School, and that five guineas be presented to Mr Williams as a farewell gift on the part of the choir. Mr Howell said that he wished Mr Williams to understand tint the blessing and good wishes for the happiness of himself and Mrs Williams from the I heart of every member of the choir went with the five guineas. The proposal was carried by acclamation. Mr Williams feelingly acknowledged, and thanked the choir for its generosity and good wishes which he very highly valued.

MACHYNLLETH. BOARD OF GUARDIANS, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 15th.-Present Mr John Rees, Ynys, chairman Mr Ellis Eughes, Cemmes, vice-chairman Messrs Edward Hughes, Llanwrin N. B. Owen, Penegoes John Davies, Darowen John Rowlands and Mrs Lloyd, Machynlleth John Owen and Wm Jones, Towyn John Hughes Jones, Aberdovey David Lewis, Uwchygarreg R. Jones, Caerienionfechan E. Pritchard Issygarreg; Evan Evans, Towyn; David Evans, Pennal; David Evans, clerk, and David Morgan, assistant clerk. Statistics, -Out-relief administered during the past fortnight, Machynlleth district, per Mr John Jones, 919 Igs,6d to 91 paupers Darowen district, per Mr Dl. Howell, f,43 7s 7d to 153 paupers Pennal district, per Mr Wm Jones, 931 3s 8d to 102 paupers. Vag- rants relieved during the past fortnight 57 corres- ponding period last year 63. Number of inmates 33 last year 34. Correspondence.-A letter was read from the Local Government Board in reply to a letter from the Guardians stating that on the assumption that the Medical Officer consented, the Board assented to the proposal of the Guardians to transfer the parish of Caereinionfechan to the Cemmes medical relief dis- trict, and to increase the salary of Mr D. Edwards, medical officer, from JE41 to f43 per annum. The letter concluded by approving of the decision of the Board in increasing the Balary.-Another communica- tion was read stating that the Board assented to the proposal of the Guardians to add the parish of Caer- einionfechan to Mr Daniel Howell (relieving officer's) district.—A further communication was read from the Local Government Board with regard to the visit of Mr Bircham to the Union on July 24th, and recom- mending certain improvements and alterations in the House.—The consideration of the letter was deferred to the next Board meeting.—A communication was read from the Clerk to the Merioneth County Council, stating that an application having been made to the County Council by the parishioners of Towyn and Pennal for an order to carry out certain alterations and provisions in these districts, the County Council had decided to hold a local enquiry into the matter when applications would be taken into consideration, the enquiry to be held at Aberdovey on August 22nd. It was stated that the letter was in touch with the work of the Rural District Council, and no resolution was accordingly passed. Worl-liouses.-The repolution passed by the New- town and Llanidloes Union, saying that the present system of four workhouses in the county was unneces- sary and expensive, and suggesting that the Guardians should petition the Local Government Board for an enquiry into the matter, was again read. At the last meeting the same letter was read, but consideration of the matter was then deferred.—Mr William Jones asked who would be responsible for the expenses in- curred in the event of the Board agreeing to unite with the Newtown and Llanidloes Union in petition- ing the Local Government Board ?-It was stated in reply that the Unions interested would have to bear the expenses incurred.—Mr J. Hughes Jones proposed that the Board should accede to the request of the Newtown and Llanidloes Union in petitioning the Lccal Government Board.—Mr John Rowlands said the question was, did they agree with that petition? He would like to point out to the Board how expensive the cost of maintenance of inmates in other unions was. In the Newtown and Llanidloes Union, it was found on examination that the cost incurred in the maintenance of the inmates was lOs. per head per week. By that they could understand the importance of the matter and he thought it advisable that a similar examination should be made in the Machynlleth Union, in order to give the ratepayers an idea bow the money was spent. If an inquiry was held several matters might crop up, -_u_ which, in the end, might prove important. Again; if the cost of maintenance of each inmate was 10s. per week he considered it of the utmost importance that an inquiry should be held.-The Chairman asked if they could not atted the inquiry without uniting with the Llanidloes and Newtown Union in petition- ing the Local Government Board. In that case they could avoid running into any expense.—Mr John Rowlands replied that if the Board followed that course they would have no voice in th 3 enquiry: in the event of one being held. He seconded Mr J. Hughes Jones's proposition.—After further talk Mr Edward Hughes proposed as an amendment that the matter should be further deferred.—Mr N. B. Owen seconded the amendment.—Mr J. Hughes Jones, adverting to Mr Hughes's amendment, asked what Mr Hughes meant by deferred."—Mr Hughes (warmly) I am not going to explain to you. It is enough for you to know that I have proposed that the matter should be defernd. —The Chairman was about to put the amendment to the meeting when Mr John Rovvlau ds objected, on the ground that the matter should be further discussed the remark causing Mr Edward Hughes to observe that Mr Rowlands had had his say at any rate. Ultimately the amendment was put to the meeting when nine voted for it. The pro- position was then put to the meeting when four voted for it, and it was therefore declared lost. Union Assessment.—Mr Wm. Jones called attention to the irregular and inconsistent way in which the Union was at present assessed, and moved that at the next Board th" matter should be taken into considera- tion.—The motion was agreed to. Adjourned.—The Board then adjourned for a month. Rural District Council.—A meeting of the Rural District Council was held after the Board, Mr Edward Hughes, chairman, presiding.—The matter of the Scuborynoed water supply was deferred to the next meeting the same couise being adopted with the question of Standing Orders. — The Surveyor (Mr Richard Williams, junr.) presented his report for the current fortnight; and several recom- mendations and suggestions contained therein were adopted.—A communication was read from the Merionethshire County Council relative to an inquiry to be held at Aberdovey to consider any applications for effecting certain alterations and provisionsin the Towyn and Pennal District.—The communication was allowed to lie on the table, no discussion taking place.—The Clerk stated that no communication had as yet been received from the Local Government Board sanctioning the appointmnt of Mr Richard Williams as surveyor and inspector.—On the motion of the Chairman, Mr Williams was again temporarily appointed for a period of three months, and in the event of no letter having been received from the Local Government Board at the expiration of that period, that a letter should be forwarded enquiring the cause of the delay.— Several applications were received from the local parish councils asking the District Council to repair certain footpaths.—A discussion took place as to whether the parish councils or the Rural District Council were responsible for repairing the paths in question. The majority of those present were of opinion that each of the parish Councils should see to the footpaths in their separate parishes.—On the sug- gestion of Mr Ellis Hughes it was decided to put the matter on the agenda for the next meeting.—It was resolved that in future the wage of each workman should be paid by means of cheques to be sent by post. —Attention was called by the Surveyor to the con- dition of the bridge over the Dovey situate by Cemmes. —'It was agreed to leave the matter in the hands of the Parish Council of Cemmes.—This was all the business of importance, and the Council adjourned for a month.

BARMOUTH. STEAMSHIP "TELEPHONE."—Captain Robert Lewis, Oak House, Marine-parade, has bought Captain Owen Griffith's interest in this steamer and will take charge of her on Saturday next. VISITORS.—In the early part of July there were not many visitors in the town, but towards the end of the month the lodging houses became very full and still continues so. It is thought that the town was never so full as it has been from July till now. CORN HARVEST.—The corn harvest has commenced in this neighburhood, and the grain seems to be in very good condition, much better than was anticipated a few weeks since. The recent rain has done much good and with a few weeks of sunny weather the bulk of the crops will be harvested. ENGLISH SERVICE.—On Sunday, August 11th, the pulpit of Christ Church English Presbyterian Church was occupied by the Rev Robert Duff, M.A., Belgrave Presbyterian Chapel, London. At the Wesleyan Chapel the Rev Richard Roberts, London, was the preacher. At both chapels the congregations were immensely large, and the service were highly appreci- ated. SHIP SALVAGE.—The crews of the Barmouth and Abersoch lifeboats have entered a claim for £ 1,000 on the agents of the Norwegian ship Kragero for service rendered on the 3rd August in getting her off St. Patrick's Causeway and safely mooring her in St. Tud- wall's Road. Captain Richard Owen, of Barmouth, was in charge of the helm till she arrived in the roads. CATHOLIC PASTORATE.—Through infirmity and old age Father Donovan has been compelled to resign the pastoral charge of St. Tudwalls's Catholic Chapel in Park Road. The rev gentleman hts gone to Ireland to his friends, and intends residing there during his remaining years. Being of a genial and kind disposition, he was highly repected at Barmouth. He had been in charge of the mission for over eight years. The preacher for last Sunday was the Rev M. Maker, S.I. A MORNING BATH.—Early on Monday last an object was seen floating in the Harbour some little distance from the railway bridge. On it being sighted several boats were immediately manned and made to- wards it thinking it was a bather which was being carried down by the strong current. After a sharp c>'ase it turned out to be a sheep belonging to Mr Robert Thomas, Gorllwynfawr, which had taken to the water to cool itself. Ultimately it was got into one of the boats and safely brought to land. SPECIAL PETTY SESSIONS.—On Friday, August 9th, i special petty sessions was held at the Police Station, before W. J. Morris and Alderman Lewis Lewis, Esqrs., when Robert Evans, Dyffryn, was charged, with having been drunk when in charge of a hackney j carriage. He was fined 2s. 6d. and costs.-Peter Williams, an old offender, for being drunk and incap- able was fined 10s with costs, in default fourteen days. —Richard Lewis, Efailfach, Llanaber, for exposing his person was fined 2s. 6d.-Evan Lewis, boots at the Barmouth Hotel, was charged with having ridden a bicycle without a bell or whistle, and was fined 2s. 6d. with costs.—John Owens, Marine Garden Terrace, for allowing three of his donkeys to stray on the highways was fined 2s. 6d. for each donkey with costs. A SPRING.—A correspondent suggests that the old spring at Graigfach which supplied Barmouth with water for generations and was reckoned at that time to be one of the purest springs in the town, should be restored. Since the town nas Deen unuer tne uocai Board its course was diverted, but last week it over- flowed and filled several houses in the neighbourhood much to the discomfort of the inhabitants. The re- construction of the old course would not entail great expense and the water would be a great boon not only for washing and watering the streets but fer other purposes. Some of the old inhabitants who drank from the spring about thirty years ago would again like to enjoy its cooling and refreshing qualities for they think as highly of it as King David of old did of the ancient well of Bethlehem, THE ABERAMFFRA ESTATF,This valuable property which has been in possession of the late Mr Edward Woodville Ricketts for so many years, will, in conse- quence of his death and under terms of his will, be offered by public auction on Wednesday next by Mr Horace G. Sadgrove. The estate is divided into ten lots without interfering with the lovely-wooded grounds that go with the house, and the opportunity is there- fore open to large and small in Testors of obtaining a portion of this attractive property. The auctioneer describes the estate as occupying the premier site on the diversified and historic shores of Cardigan Bay." Certain it is that the position of the properties is mag- nificent, and has long been the envy and admiration of both residents and visitors. The sale has been care- fully and extensively advertised in England and Wales under Mr Sadgrove's experienced hands, and very great interest is evinced in the result of next Wednesday's auction. There are also 100 JE5 shares in the Corsy- gedol and Marine Hotels and Freehold Land Co. Limited, Barmouth, to be offered at the same time.

TOW5TN. VOLUNTEERS.—The volunteers took their departure at about two o'clock on Sunday last. Judging by the large number of people who accompanied them to the Station, and by the nature of the partings, they had made a very large number of friends. Many were the wishes expressed for their return next year and profuse were the promises made by them of faith- fulness in the meantime. On Saturday last the volunteers had their usual regimental sports which were very well patronised. Prizes were given for flat, wheelbarrow, sack, obstacle, and three legged races aud for a football contest between the Worcester Division and the Birmingham ))ivision. Some of the inhabitants of Towyn presented the winner of the one mile flat race with a handsome cup. There were also eleven silver medafe for the winning football team. TOWYN AND PKNNAL SCUIOOL BOARD.-A meeting was held on Tuesday, August 13th.-Present Messrs E. Rowland, chairman B. Richards, vice-chairman W. Jones, senior; R. H. Hughes, P. H. Hughes, clerk and John Owen, attendance officer. -Applica. tions were made by the several masters for payments of the grants earned under Article 102. It was decided to pay and divide" them equally between master and pupil.—Mr J. LI. Jones, of Portmadoc was appointed assistant-master at Towyn School at a salary at the rate of jE50 a year.—Mr Roberts, master of Bryncrug School, was complimented on the success of the even- ing classes and was paid the full grant earned.—It was decided to call attention to the defects pointed out by H.M. Inspector in the Aberdovey Evening School. Miss Mary Williams was appointed sewing mistress at Pennal.—Miss Annie Catherine Jones, of Corbett- square, was appointed monitress at Towyn Board School.—Directions were given to the Architect to see that the works at Pennal, Towyn, and Brynsrug are completed forthwith.

CAMBRIAN RAILWAY COMPANY. The half-yearly meeting of the Cambrian Railway Company was held on Thursday at Manchester, Mr J. F. Buckley, chairman of the Company, presiding* The Chairman, in moving the adoption of the report, said the statements of accounts would not be con- sidered at all unsatisfactory when they reflected upon the unfavourable conditions under which they had had to work. The severe weather in the early part of the year had a disastrous effect upon the passenger traffic. The result was that in the first quarter they had a decrease of about 50,000 passengers, and in May the traffic receipts showed a falling-off of no less than £2,233. Fortunately, June produced a splendid result, and they had been able to show an increase of 18,364 in the number of passengers for the half-year. The parcels traffic showed an upward movement, the- receipts showing an increase of -6510. Altogether their coaching receipts showed an increase of £736. The first-class passenger traffic was still drooping. They carried 3,304 fewer than in the corresponding period last year. The more he thought about this question the more he was convinced that railway companies ought to seriously consider the desirability of having only one class. He was, however, in favour of a certain number of compartments being reserved for those who were prepared to make a small ad- ditional payment graduated according to distance. Another advantage would be that the passenger duty." amountiog to a quarter of a million of money, would be saved. Notwithstanding unfavourable conditions and exceptioml difficulties, the loss in goods receipts only amounted to £ 760.—Mr Maclure, M.P., seconded the adoption of the report, and the resolution waa carried.