The Aberystwith Observer

THE WATER QUESTION. TO THE EDITOR OF THE ABERYSTWYTH OBSERVER. The old adage of t( O many cooks spoil the broth," or the other of "in the multitude of councillors there is wisdom," applies to our watery wants. We have hereabouts, as follows, four or five springs and brooks on Tanycastell; two or three on Bryneibyn; three or four on Cwmedwig—enough to deluge Ab. erystwyth and suburbs, as Trefechan, &c. I will not trouble you with, much as I have pointed out the best way of inducing fine clear spring water cose at home. And if the foregoing is not enough, there is Aberllolwyn and Abermaid rocky rivers. I beg to enquire why the mine proprietors are so quiet, when they have been the sole cause of spoiling the Ystwyth, Rheidol, Melindwr, and other streams ? In fact, the mines have been to blame for it all, and ought to bear the entire expense of pipes and every- thing else. Also, what are the Puritans, alias Tee- totallers, about in this water bubble and trouble ? Having lived in this locale 50 years off and on, I can assert that the waters of Tanycastell, Bryneithy*, and Cwmedwig are not only suited for drinking, but are equally good for washing and every other pur- pose I know of; and, being all rapid streams, must be far superior to any lake waters now thought cf and near-" look at home." Yours, &c. W. E. B.

EDWARD ROBINSON, WATCHMAKER, GOLDSMITH, & JEWELLER, Market Square, Shrewsbury, & London. ONE of THE LARGEST and most GENUINE STOCKS in the provinces, combined with the MOST REASONABLE CHARGES. gyjf Second-hand Plate. TO LET, A CONVENIENT HOUSE, with immediate possession, No. 10, New-street. Enquire on the premises. In Chancery. In the Matter of the Companies Act, 1862, AND In the Matter of the Mid- Wales Hotel Company, Limited. "VTOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN. That the Peti- .1, tiun, referred to in a certain advertisement which appeared in this paper of Saturday last. will be withdrawn by the undersigned Brooke Robinson on behalf of himself and W illiam George Robinson, the petitioners. And notice is hereby further given, that the said Brooke Robinson and William George Robinson respectively are no longer members of the above-named Company. BROOKE KOBINSON, Of 61, Carey Street, Lincoln's Inn, Middlesex, Solicitor. London, February 6th, 1866. APPEAL. PARISH CHURCH OF LLANBADARN-FAWR, Near Aberystwyth, Cardiganshire. Diocese of St. David's. TIIIS venerable Fabric, long the pride of the JL neighbourhood, and admired by all intelligent strangers for its peculiar architectural beauty, is now in the most urgent need of repair. In another column will be found some account of its history and present condition. Drawings for its complete restoration have been prepared by an Architect of the highest eminence, Mr. J. P. Seddon, to whom the whole work will be committed. It is estimated that several thousands will be re- quired for the entire restoration but Mr. Seddon reports the Nave to be in the more urgent need of repair and it is therefore intended to set about this portion of the undertaking as soon as a sufficient sum is in hand. The following are the names of the Committee en- gaged in carrying out this work :— THE HIGHT RBV. THE LORD BISHOP OF ST. DAVID'S. THE VERY REV. THE DEAN OF ST. DAVID'S. THE VEXEKABLB THE AUC HDEACON" OF CARDIGAN. THE REV. H. 0 PHILLIPS, MA., R.D., Incumbent of A hvniit.nntth. COL. PRYSE, iVj.P., Lord-Lieutenant of Cardiganshire. COL. POWELL, Sant-K">. Silt PRYSE PRYSE, BART., GoQcrildan. G. E. J. POWELL, ESQ., Sant-Eos. THE YESERABLF. THE ARCHDEACOX OF YORK. THE REV. L. GILBEHTSOX, B.D., Fellow ofjetut College, Oxford. THE REV. JORS PUGH, Vicar of the Parish. J. (j, W. BOXSAI.L, ESQ., J.P., FronJ'raith. JOHN EVANS, ESQ., Lovesgrove. THOMAS JOXES, ESQ., J P., Mount Pleasant, Aberystwyth THE CRL'RCHVVARDEX'S FOR THE TIME BEING. Subscriptions will be thankfully received for "LLANBADARN-FAWR RESTORATION FIHD," either at the National Provincial Bank, or at the North and South Wales Bank, Aberystwyth or by any Member of the Committee. "y^ALENTINESl VALENTINES!! VALENTINES! The «il\jtention of the Public generally is called to a very Large assortment, just received from London. Such Elegant emblems of love and affec- tion certainly could Not possibly be obtained but at this Establishment. T hprices being low they are within the reach of all. In design they are pronounced to be charming. Now is the time for those wishing to give proof of their En dIe s s af- fection, to examine the extensive and rich STOCK NOW ON SALE AT D. JENKINS'S 8, PIER-STREET, ABERYSTWYTH. LIEBIG'S COMPANY'S EXTRACT OF MEAT. Only gpnuine when Baron Liebig's (Inventor.s) signature is on the Jar. Retail, 2s. 2 oz, (equivalent to one pt nny) half a pint of best beef tea. Sold by Chemists & Grocers. FORTNIGHTLY STEAMERS, LONDON TO J' NEW YORK.—WILLIAM PEXX, CELLA. ATALAXTA, BELLOXA, INDIANA leave Victoria Docks alternate Satur- days. Passengers of all classes takpn at the lowest rates. Apply for partirulars to SMITH, SUX'DILS, and Co., 17, GRACE- CHURCH STREET, LOX DON. DR. HAMILTON'S "NEURO TONIC" is, without doubt. the sovereign remedy for Xervousnpss and Debility. Pi ice lis. and 33s. per case. Sent all over the world. J. HAMILTON, M.D., 404, Oxford-street. YOUR FUTURE FORETOLD—Madame DE JL VERE will reveal by CLAIRVOYANCE, Second Sight, and Perception, the thoughts aod imentions of those in any part 01' the world. Give age and sex. Four questions answered for nine stamps and stamped envelope.—52, Meeting House-lane, Brighton, Sussex. TO CONSUMPTIVES. DR. H. JAMES, the retired physician, continues to send by post, free of charge, to all who desire it, the copy of the prescription by which his daughter was restored to perfect health from confirmed consumvtion> aJter having been given up by her physician, and despaired of by her father. Sent free to all on receipt of one stamp.—Address, 0. P. BROWN, Secretary, No. 2, King-street, Covent Garden, London. TREGARON MONTHLY MARKET. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, That a License has been granted for holding Monthly Markets for the Sale of Cattle, Sheep, Pigs, &c., at Tregaron, and the same will be held regularly on the TUESDAY next preceding the first Wednesday in every month. BY ORDER. MOCHO HOUSE, 12, PIER STREET, ABERYSTWYTH, Established 1836. JOHN MORGAN, LAPIDARY JEWELLER, PEBBLES CUT & POLISHED. All kinds of Jewellery made and repaired on the shortest notice- ggp" The utmost value given for old Gold and Silver. ABERYSTWYTH & DEVIL'S BRIDGE ROYAL MAIL, VIA TY'NLLIDIART, GOGINAN, & PONTERWYD R STARLING, of the Queen's Hotel Livery and • Posting Yard, respectfully begs to inform the public that henceforward he will run a COVERED CARRIAGE between ABERY8TWYTH and DEVIL's BRIDGE daily, for the conveyance of Passengers, Parcels, &c., leaving the Post Office, Aberystwyth, at 11 a m., and arriving at Devil's Bridge at I 30, returning at 2 45 p.m. FARES:— Single Journey. s. d. From Aberystwyth to Ty'nllidiart I 0 „ » to Goginan -16 „ „ to Ponterwyd 2 0 „ „ to Devil's Bridge 3 0 Double Journey. s. d. From Aberystwyth to Ty'nllidiart and back 1 6 „ „ to Goginan „ 2 9 „ „ to Ponterwyd „ 30 „ „ to Devil's Bridge „ 4 6 N.B. All orders for Horses, Carriages, Posting, Itc., punctually attended to. PETTY SESSIONS, ABERYSTWYTH. Tuesday, February 4th, 1868. Before Richard Roberts, Esq., mayor. NUISANCE. Mrs Mary Hughes, of the White Swan Tavern, St. James's Square, was summoned for having a cer- tain number of pIgs upon her premises. Dismissed with a caution, on payment of costs. ♦- COUNTY COURT, ABERYSTWYTH. Wednesday, 5th February, 1868. BEFORE ARTHOR JAMES JOHNES, ESQ., JODGE. His honour took his seat on the bench before I o'clock, the earlier portion of the day having been occupied in hearing undisputed cases before the rellisl rar. There were no cases of any public interest heard at thi-i court. MARINE EXAMINATIONS —Evan Davies. son of Capt. Lewis Davies, Trefechan, has past his exami- nation at Glasgow as Only mate. Also David Jen- kins, son of Capt. David Jerkins, Borth, has passed his examination at Hull, as master in the foreign service. Both were late pupils of Air. Lewis Hode- riok, of this town.

TOWN COMMISSIONERS, ABERYSTWYTH. Tuesday, February 4th, 1868. A monthly general meeting of the town commis- sioners was held at the Town-hall on Tuesday last. The commissioners present were—Messrs. Richard Roberts, mayor, in the chair, Charles Hackney, John Williams, Dr. C. Rice Williams, Thomas Hugh Jones, Benjamin Hughes, John Jones (Great Dark- gate-street), Richard Morris, John Watkins, Philip Williams, J. J. Atwood, and Hugh Hughes. Mr Vaughan, town surveyor, and Mr Rice, rate collector, were in attendance. Mr George Jones, C.E., was present. The usual bills were examined and passed. Mr William Rice said that the town was .£1 5s. 5d. in debt to the bank. Mr David Lloyd announced that the new rate of Is. in the £ had been prepared for the approval of the meeting. In reply to the chairman William Rice said that the amount of arrears now outstanding amounted to between 30/. and 40/. Mr Hugh Hughes thought that very fair. The collector was directed to bring a list of the defaulters to the next meeting, so that the commis- sioners might fix upon the names of those who should be sued. PUBLIC PUMP. The turncock was ordered to erect a pump at the corner of the wall of Mr John Matthews's house, in Trefechan. Mr Vaughan was instructed to make a new drain in St. James's Square. THE RESERVOIR. Mr Hackney requested to know why it was that after the town had spent 200/. on building a house for [he turncock, at the reservoir, that person refused to live in it. What was the use of that house at all if it was not to be inhabited ? and why was so much of the town's money laid upon it to no purpose ? Mr Atwood There are many persons who would be glad to rent such a house and garden There is a gentleman at present in the room who will give 151. a year for it. It is not right that so much money should have been laid out to no purpose. That house was erected so that the turncock might reside where he ought to—close to the reservoir. But as he did not chouse to do so, and as a tenant could be obtained fur it, he (Mr Atwood) thought, at least, that the turncock's salary ought to be re- duced by 1.51. No answer being given to Mr Hackney's question, the subject was allowed to drop. NEW TERRACE. Mr Vaughan enquired whether the commissioners desired to have the road north of the Queen's Hotel put in order as a promenade for the approaching summer. If they instructed him to proceed with the work he would undertake to make it as good as the present Terrace by the summer months. In reply to the chairman Mr Vaughan said that the work could be done at an extra cost of about 301. Mr Philip Williams moved that Mr Vaughan be instructed to put that road in order, so that it might be ready by the summer for walking and riding on. Mr Thomas H. Jones seconded. The motion was carried unanimously. SEA WALL. Mr D. J. Jones applied for the yearly payment of his bill on the contract for keeping the sea wall in a state of repair. Mr Hugh Hughes observed that the commissioners were then in debt to the bank, and there being no actual outlay by David Jones, this was a case in which he could very well afford to give them credit. D. J. Jones could give them credit if others would do the like for him. Mr Thomas H. Jones But we will have the new rate in presently. Mr B. Hughes proposed that the bill be passed. The chairman objected he said it was like giving a cheque on the bank when there were no funds to meet it. At the suggestion of Mr R. Morris the matter was allowed to stand over till the March meeting. THE WATER QUESTION. Dr Williams rose to address the meeting on the subject of the water supply. He said it was then so late in the day that it would be useless to bring the matter on for discussion. Of course, he was entirely in the hands of the meeting, and he was prepared to go on with the matter if they pleased, but he feared if he did so that it would meet with a fate similar to that of his last attempt. He should take upon him- self to suggest the propriety of convening a special meeting for the discussion of the question. This is a matter of the most vital importance to the town and it would be seen from the report of Mr Arnold Taylor that the water supply was held by him, as Government Inspector, to be wholly inadequate to the requirements of the town. (Dr. Williams here read an extract from Mr Taylor's report on the sanitary condition of Aberystwyth.) Mr Atwood: You may adjourn this meeting for the purpose of discussing the matter. Dr. Williams I am satisfied to be afforded an opportunity of having the matter fully discussed in any way. Mr Atwood: The advantage of a special meeting is that every one comes to it charged with informa- tion and arguments on the subject to be discussed. Dr Williams I court the fullest investigation of my scheme. I may state that I have had a further communication from Col. Powell on the subject, which I should like to make public. I should be sorry to proceed with the matter, too, in the absence of Mr Pell, who is to-day obliged to be from home. Mr Atwood There is a little trouble attendant upon calling a special meeting; but certainly a spe- cial meeting would be the most satisfactory course to adopt. Mr Hugh Hughes suggested adjourning the dis- cussion of the matter to that day fortnight. Dr. Williams asserted that this was a matter which admitted of no delay. He quoted Mr Arnold's report to prove his assertion. It w^s about to be arranged to adjourn the con- sideration of the question for a week, when Mr Hackney rose, and said that it had been moved at the last meeting that the question be adjourned till the dry season, so as to see what the state of the proposed supply would then be, and what amount of water was to be had in the summer months from this place. He knew there would be an objection to Dr. Williams's scheme by the town generally, for the water there was most objectionable. Dr. Williams objected to Mr Hackney being allowed to go on thus irregularly. The usual amount of confusion of tongues here ensued. Mr Atwood You can't prevent us from calling a special meeting, if we choose to do so. Mr Hackney again rose to oppose. The chairman (to Mr Hackney) Suppose you keep your arguments till the subject is brought on at the next meeting. Mr Hackney: But there have been so many special meetings called. There is plenty of water to be had from the flats. Mr B. Hughes rose to second Dr. Williams' motion that the meeting be adjourned. He thought the best plan to adopt would be be to ask all the engineers in the town to bring the plans of their schemes to the next meeting. Dr. Williams was entitled to a vote of thanks from the town, and so was Mr Pell, for the trouble they had taken in this water question. I have been against Mr Pell's plan. and I may be opposed to Dr. Williams's. But if 12 schemes were brought forward so much the better for the town. The chairman suggested that day fortnight. Dr. Williams: It would be better to say this day week. We want the water for the present summer, and the water could be supplied by that time if the scheme I propose were adopted. It is for the good of the town. Mr Atwood asked whether they were not pledged to Mr Taylor to procure this water supply by the next summer. When the town told him, on the oc- casion of his inspection, that the sole reason they could give him for not having a proper supply of water was that they had not funds sufficient to do so, he replied, "Gentlemen, I will place you in the possession of means for procuring the necessary funds." He has done so; and now it is within the reach of any one to call his attention to the fact that with this power in our bands we have failed to carry out his suggestions. (Mr Atwood here read portions of Mr Taylor's report.) Dr Williams And if you do not adopt Mr Tay- lor's suggestions withont delay the Government will take the work in band, and probably put the town to IO,OOOl expense. Mr Atwood: They will spend 20,00QZ. on the work. Mr Hugh Hughes And by giving one month's notice they can do so. Mr P. Williams thought it would be better to call a special meeting, because nothing else but the one subject could be there discussed. Mr Atwood You can adjourn this meeting for a special purpose, on the same understanding. After some further conversation it was ultimately arranged that the clerk send a notice to ail the com- missioners of an adjournment of that meeting to the following Tuesday, at 6 o'clock in the evening, for the discussion of Dr. Williams's scheme for supply- ing the town with water. The meetiug then adjourned for a week.

LIFE-BOAT CONTRIBUTIONS.—The life-boat con- tribution pillqjf box on the Marine Terrace, on being opened la3t Week, was found to contain 21. Is. 9d. a sovereign being among the contributions. Sir T. D. Lloyd, the respected member for the county, has also this week kindly forwarded a guinea towards the funds. The working expenses of the branch society here, from various additions made to its efficiency, having considerably increased of late, it is earnestly hoped that the appeals which are necessarily made to the humane and charitable amongst our fellow townsmen for pecuniary aid will not be thrown aside, as,—though happily this winter no ease of urgent necessity for the services efthe boat presented itself, —the remains of wrecks and valuable goods strewing our shores, clearly shews what sad havoc the late gales have made on our coast and no one knows -what a day again may bring forth, consequently we ought surely to be at all times prepared.

TOWN COUNCIL, ABERYSTWYTH. Wednesday, 5th February, 1868. A quarterly meeting of the town council was held in the Town-hall on Wednesday last. The members of that body present were—Richard Roberts, Esq., mayor, in the chair, alderman Thomas Jones, coun- cillors John Matthews, Richard Morris, John Wat- kins, Philip Williams, Thomas O. Morgan, and Mr Hugh Hughes, treasurer. Mr Matthews called the attention of the meeting to the proposal of Mr John Jones for an extension of his lease. They all knew the circumstances under which this application had been made. They wanted to widen the street there, and by so doing improve the appearance and convenience of the street, and the value of the holder's property. He was prepared to produce the plans of alterations. It was decided to leave the matter in the hands of the valuation committee. Mr Matthews also referred to the application of Lewis Jenkins for a renewal of his lease of premises on Lewis Terrace. This question was also referred to the valuation committee. The town clerk read a written proposal from the Building Society for that plot of land north of New- foundland-street, for the erection of houses by the said society, and for which they proposed to pay 20[, a year. Mr Atwood remarked that this was the last piece of ground they had for building purposes in the town, and had they not better pause before they parted with it ? The town might require it to erect a public building on. Besides, they had been offered a higher sum that that now offered by the society, and if it is to be let it must be let to the highest bidder. Mr Matthews said that the corporation property had been disposed of in the town for half the price fixed upon it by the valuation committee. Mr 1'. Williams That was only in the case of a school or chapel. It never was done in the case of a private individual. Mr Matthews only said that such had been the case. He did not say it was a precedent which ought to be followed. Mr Philip Williams: We ought to have specifica- tions and drawings before we granted our consent. Mr Parry: Would not Mr George Jones give us a drawing of one house, which would be a model for the lot. Mr James (who attended for the society,) said their specifications were prepared. The subject was adjourned, to enable the society to reconsider their offer, Mr George Jones to draw a plan of elevation in the meantime. Mr James said they would not offer any more rent if the plan proposed to be made involved a more ex- pensive class of building. THE CORPORATION SEAL. Mr Parry said that at the last meeting Mr Bal- combe had expressed himself to the effect that the town clerk had no right to affix the corporation seal to deeds executed by the corporation, unless such deed also bore the name of the mayor. He was astonished also to find that Mr Balcombe was sup- ported by a gentleman whose long experience in such matters ought to have taught him better things. He referred to Mr Atwood. (Laughter.) To set the question at rest he had communicated with the town clerk of Birmingham, a borough in which far more important deeds were executed than in Aberystwyth. Mr Balcombe and Mr Atwood had said that in no other-borough in the kingdom besides Aberystwyth was such a practice pursued. They would now see how far that assertion was to be relied upon. He had written to the town clerk of Birmingham the following letter:— Dear Sir,—Will you be so kind as to reply to the following question When your town council execute a deed is it your practice to affix the common seal only, or does the mayor or other presiding officer also write bis name near the common seal, as a party executing the deed ? I am, &c., JOHX PARRY. And the following was the reply he had received :— Borough of Birmingham, Town Clerk's Office, January 14th, 1868. Dear Sir,—Deeds are executed by the corporation of this borough by affixing the common seal, to which I add my signature simply. I am, dear Sir, yours faithfully, John Parry, Esq., THOMAS STANDBUIDGE. Town Clerk of Aberystwyth. Mr Atwood said that Mr Parry had not put the question fairly to the town clerk of Birmingham and after some squabbling and uninteresting dis- cussion, the matter was permitted to drop.

4 ODDFELLOWSHIP. A Lodge of Past Grands of the Independent Order of Oddfellows, M. U., Aberystwyth district, was opened on the 24th ult., at the house of P. P. G. M. John Jones, Oddfellows' Arms, in this town. Thirty seven members were enrolled, and the lodge promi- ses to be a numerous and prosperous one. It was unanimously decided to designate it "The Loyal Doc- tor Price Lodge," as a compliment to the P.P.G.M. of the Order. This lodge is established for the pur- pose of rendering additional assistance in illness, and for discussing matters of interest to the well-being of the district and order. After the whole of the busi- ness had been transacted, and the lodge closed, the members and friends partook of a supper provided by the host, being 70 in number. The chair was taken by Prov. G.M. John Hughes. The chairman, in responding to the toast of "Prosperity to the Past Grand Lodge," said that he, being the oldest Oddfellow in the district, and the first one elected in this town, had felt the necessity of such a step being taken in that direction and since its establishment many of the Past Grands had testified their approval of it by becoming members. And he trusted that success would crown their efforts.

THE FATAL ACCIDENT ON THE CAM- BRIAN RAILWAY. THE IJFQPEST.—On Monday last the inquest was opened at the Board Room of the Caersws Work- house by Dr Slyman, the district coroner. After two of the witnesses had been examined, the jury went to view the scene of the disaster, after which the enquiry was formally adjourned to the Public Rooms, Newtown, on Thursday, when it was expected the Government Inspector would .be in attendance.

MEDICAL INSPECTOR OF SEAMEN. DR JAMES has been appointed to the above office for the port and district of Aberystwyth, under the following letter of authority from the Board of Trade. At the Council Chamber, Whitehall. Present, His Grace the Duke of Richmond, K.G.—Whereas it is provided by the Merchant Shipping Act, 1867, that Medical Inspectors of Seamen may be appoint- ed by the Board of Trade at Ports in the United Kingdom where there are no local Marine Boards: Now, therefore, in exprcise of the powers vested in them by the aforementioned Act, the Board of Trade are pleased to appoint you, Thomas James, Esq., M.R.C.S.E., of Aberystwyth, as Medical Inspector of Seamen for the port and district of Aberystwyth. It is distinctly understood that this appointment continues only during the pleasure of the Board of Trade, and that it will cease upon an intimation by letter to that effect, signed by one of the Secretaries or Assistant Secretaries to the Board. Signed, by order of the Board of Trade, this 1st day day of February, 1868, THOMAS GRAY. One of the Assistant Secretaries of the said Board.

SELECTION OF SITE OF NEW COUNTY GAOL. The following members of the committee of ma- gistrates appointed at the last Quarter Sessions met at the Town Hall, in this town, at 1 p.m. on Satur- day, the 1st instant, pursuant to appointment, to inspect the sites proposed by the town council. The committee consisted of G. W. Parry, Esq.,choir- man, J. G. W. Bonsall, Esq.,T. Elliott, Esq., J. B. Harford, Esq., and Lieut. Col Lewes. The committee were met by the mayor, town councillors T. O. Morgan and John Matthews, and Messrs Atwood, Hughes, and Pell. Col. Lewes stated that the committee attended there with the object of hearing what proposal the authorities of Aberystwyth had to make, and to in- speet any site they might be in a position to offer. The mayor stated that at a recent meeting of the town council the following 6ites were suggested :— 1. A site near the reservoir, the property of the Rev. James Hugh es. 2. A site between the Workhouse and the New Barracks, the property of Sir Pryge Pryse, Bart. 3. A site named Plascrug ruin, the property of Col. Powell. 4. A site between the railway station and the river Rheidol, the property of the corporation. 5, A site near Morfa Mill, the property of A. Richards, Esq. J 6. The castle grounds. After some discussion the sites numbers 1, 4, 5, and 6, were voted, for various reasons, ineligible. The committee, accompanied by the other gentle- men above-named, then proceeded to inspect the sites numbers 2 and 3, and the feeling of the meet- ing manifestly was that either of these sites was de- sirable and it was arranged that the town council should ascertain the terms upon which the same could be obtained, and inform the committee there- of on or before the 29th inst. Col. Lewes, in reply to a question put to him, stated that the area of ground required would not exceed two acres.

ABERYSTWYTH LITERARY INSTITUTE AND WORKING MEN'S READING ROOM. The first annual general meeting was held in the reading-room of the institute on Tuesday, the 4th inst., the Rev. E. Owen Phillips, president, in the chair. Amongst those present we noticed the Rev. John Jones, Messrs. William Williams, F.R.C.S., J. A. Cross, Thomas Hugh Jones, Thomas Griffiths, J. P. Jones, G. H. Thomas, Matthew H. Davis, George Jones, Captain Delahoyde, and Dr. C. Rice Williams. The president having taken the chair, called upon Mr G. B. O'HaIloran, the honorary secretary of the institute, to read the following

ANNUAL REPORT. Twelve months ago, in several meetings held at the Town-hall, over which our present chairman presided, it was decided that the great want of a public reading-room and library in Aberystwyth, one of the most important and attractive towns in Wales, was an evil which, for the sake of its own character and recognized position, the town was bound to remedy. Accordingly it was arranged that a president and committee be formed towards the establishment of the present institution. The matter was taken up with a considerable amount of warmth by the majority of the professional and commercial gentlemen connected with the town, and by a few county gentlemen (whose numbers we hope will increase as we progress), and the result, we are proud to say, has been that of an indisputable success. The present rooms, which occupy one of the most prominent and central situations in the town, was obtained at a rent of 201. a year, and they have been fitted up, you will perceive, with every necessary convenience, and decorated by our most munificent patron, Mr George Powell, of Nanteos, with a large number of framed beautiful engravings of great value. The state of our finances will be shown by the balance-sheet in another column, which was pre- pared by the hon. secretary, and audited by two members of the committee, whose names are sub- scribed. By the balance-sheet it will be seen that when the outstanding subscriptions due to the insti- tute for the past year are paid up, and the outstand- ing liabilities of the institute for the past year are paid off, the result will be that a balance of lOt. 18s. lOci. will remain to the credit of the institute. This, too, in the face of the large expenditure of some 301. for furniture, gas fittings, printing, glazing, &c., which will never be called for again. So that if we proceed for the next year only as we have gone on in the past, we shall by this time next year be in possession of a surplus of over 40/. But it is to be hoped that the members of the institute will exert themselves strenuously to secure fresh subscribers for the coming years. Now as to the library. We are happy to inform you that the library at present consists of 918 vols., every one of which has been presented. It is only an act of justice to the donors to furnish you with a list of their names. Rev. E Owen Phillips has presented 2 vols. Government of New South Wales 1" Mr James „ „ 1" ¥' nt T~\ » 1 Rev. Octavius Daviea „ „ 2 „ Mr CoUeman „ 3" Mr Humphries „ 5" Hon Sec.. „ 5 Mr Thomas ,'J „ 5 Mr Cross „ „ 8" Mr Eynon „ „ 9" Mr Rowe „ „ 26" Mr Hackney „ „ 24" Mr J.P.Jones „ „ 24" Car. Mining Club,per Mr H.E. Taylor 67 „ Mr G. E. J. Powell has presented 735" Total 918 These books, being almost new and expensive editions, represent in money, at the very lowest figure, 2501. J We cannot quit the subject of the library without inform.ng you with satisfaction of the good fortune we have met with in being able to secure the services of Sergeant Vernon, who proves himself a. most valuable and efficient librarian. These are the material facts as to the working of the institute for its first year, and it remains to us to hope that it gives you as much pleasure to examine as it does us to display them. For the committee, E. OWEJT PniLLirs, G. B. O HALLOKAN, President. Hon. Sec. When the report and audited balance-sheet had been read to the meeting, Mr Thomas Hugh Jones proposed that the same, having now been unanimously approved of and adopted, be printed. Mr George Jones seconded. Carried unanimously. The chairman, rising, said he believed this to be a proper stage of the proceedings when mention should be made of the patrons and supporters of this new and bravely-promising institute. He begged leave in the name of the institute generally, of which he occupied the proud position of president, to return thanks for the support they had received from their many patrons. But there was one name amongst those patrons—that of a gentleman-whose munificence both in money and presents was so over- whelming, that it would be an act of base ingratitude to pass it over without special mention he must be permitted, in returning thanks to the patrons of the institute, to single out the name of Mr George Powell more especially. (Cheers.) He should say no more at present, further than to remind them that the splendid library they now possessed was a grand gift, and that their present success was owing to such gentlemen as Mr Powell, and the other patrons of the institute. (Hear, hear.) Mr Cross proposed a vote of thanks from the institute to their patrons, especially to Mr George Powell, whose kindness and services had been almost invaluable. Mr J: P. Jones seconded, and The motion was carried with acclamation. Mr Cross proposed that a catalogue of the books in the library be printed. The expense of printing would be repaid by charging 2d. for each copy and the publication would in the summer prove most advantageous, showing the visitors the excellent works contained in the library. Mr George J ones seconded. At the instance of Mr J. P. Jones, sopported by Dr. Williams, it was agreed that the Manchester Guardian be discontinued, and that the Welshman be taken in its stead. Mr J. P. Jones proposed that an addition be made to the present salary of the librarian. Mr M. H. Davis seconded. Carried unanimously. The hon. secretary suggested that the books, fur- niture, and other property of the institute, be insured for the sum of 300l. If the premises they at present occupied were destroyed by flood or fire they would lose all their property. Mr M. H. Davis seconded. Carried unanimously. Dr. WillIams in very flattering terms, moved a vote of thanks to Mr "O'Halloran, the hon. secretary of the institute. The Rev. John Jones, in equally laudatory terms, seconded the motion. Carried unanimously. The Rev. E. Owen Phillips (president) said he could not allow this subject to drop without adding his testimony to that of the gentlemen who had al- ready spoken. [For obvious reasons we are loathe to reproduce the remarks of the president and expres- sions of the meeting, which, we can only say, were very complimentary and highly gratifying to the hon. secretary.] Mr O'Halloran, the honorary secretary, briefly thanked the meeting for their vote of thanks. He only hoped that when, by foree of circumstances or otherwise, he might be bound to sever himself from the town, he should leave some good work behind him, in the creation of which his memory would be kindly associated by those with whom he had once associated. Mr Cross said that as there was no further busi- ness before the meeting of an official character, and as all hitherto had gone off in so satisfactory a man- ner, he begged to propose a vote of thanks to their present chairman—the general president of the in- stitute. The weight of bis influence had been of the greatest assistance to the committee, and he believed that but for the countenance of Mr Phillips the pre- sent institute would never have been established. (Hear, hear.) Dr. W. Williams seconded. The chairman, in returning thanks, said that he felt much obliged to the gentlemen who had pro- posed this vote of thanks to him, and seconded it, and to the meeting generally for the manner in which they had received it. It was gratifying in this the first year of the institute's existence, to find that even its funds were in a flourishing condition. It must be doubly gratifying to those friends who, from the commencement, had proved themselves true and tried friends of the movement. (Hear.) They must remember that this institute had been set up and, as it now turned out, firmly established, in spite of the croakers who from the commencement not only withheld their support, but prophesied ultimate failure. The statement made here to-day by the secretary, and the audited accounts produced, show you happily what false prophets these croakers have proved. (Cheers ) Was it because other institu- tions, got up on false principles, have failed, that this institution, established in a generous and liberal spirit, must fail ? (Hear, hear.) No narrow-minded policy guided us. We appealed to the general public for the general good, and the effect of that appeal has proved a general success. (Cheers.) We have had a hard battle to fight. We have had not only the difficulty of starting a fresh institute to con- tend against, but the more serious difficulty of start- ing that fresh institute whilst the failure of former institutes of a similar sort stared us in the face. (lIear.) Despite of all we have succeeded and we should have succeeded still more markedly if we had received all that support which we had a rig-ht to expect from those who have great monetary innuence in the town, liad that assistance been offered us we should have found ourselves in even a still more flourishing and prospereus condition than we do at j present. (Hear.) Property ecjoys so many privi- leges that it is not only ungenerous but also unjust in its possessors to forget that it has its duties also. (Cheers.) It is the duty of the wealthy to look to the wants of the poor—to their mental as well as their bodily wants. (Hear.) Some certainly have responded to the appeal we have made, but there are many more who ought to have responded, but who have done simply nothing at all. But we have this consolation, that notwithstanding the unmerited and discreditable neglect of such parties, we have been enabled to carry the institute successfully through its severest struggle of an opening year. (Hear.) And if we prove equally true to ourselves in the future as we have proved in the past, we shall find that we ourselves are our best patrons. (Hear.) I heartily endorse every word that has been uttered in praise of our secretary, whose energy has been generous and untiring, and to whose exertions the success of the undertaking is in no slight degree to be attributed. (Hear.) I shall myself in this com- ing year seek for fresh subscribers where we have a right to expect to find them. With these few re- marks, and again thanking the meeting for the man- ner in which the mention of my name has been treated, I must conclude. The chairman resumed his seat amidst applause. The committee of last year was re-dectod with the exception of two members, who had since their election quitted the town. In the room of these Mr Thomas Griffiths and Mr G. H. Thomas were elected committee-men. Sorgeant Vernon, the librarian, was then called into the room, and addressed by The chairman, who said that from the account the hon. secretary had given of the very satisfactory manner in which the duties of librarian had been performed, be desired to express the approbation of the committee of his (the librarian's) conduct. Their approval would be more substantially evinced by increasing the salary of the librarian, which they did to the fullest extent to which the present state uf their finances entitled them to go. Sergeant Vernon expressed his thanks to the meeting, and said that any ability he might possess should be devoted as much as possible to the inter- ests of the institute. The meeting shortly afterwards broke up.

SOME ACCOUNT OF THE HISTORY AND PRESENT CONDITION OF LLANBADAliN- FAWR. ITS ANCIENT HISTORY. A few words respecting the date, extent, and his- tory of the ancient see of Llanbadarn-fawr, (latinised into Mauritania,) may well accompany the ''Appeal" (inserted in the advertising columns of this paper) for the restoration of its once Cathedral Church. The earliest notice of it in history is the arrival of S. Paturnus in A.D. 524,—Padarn ap Petrwn ap Emyr Llydaw, cefnderw i Gadvan,—" Bonedd y Saint," Myf. Arch. vol ii. p. 50.) He is said to have come over from Armorica, together with S. Cadvan, at the head of 847 Monks.—"Lives of Cambro British Saints.* pp. 189.) According to "Achau y Saint," he became a Member of the College of Illtyd. He afterwards established a College of 120 Members at Llanbadarn-fawr. Being Abbot of the new Insti- tution, he appointed over it also a Steward, a Pro- vost, and a Dean. At the same place he founded an episcopal see, and was himself the first Bishop. This office he held for 21 years, after which Be returned to Armorica, and became Bishop of Vannes. He is said to have built Monasteries and Churches through- out the region of Ceredigion. The southern boundary of the Diocese of Llan- badarn is supposed (vide Rees's British Saints, p. 21G) to be indicated in the present day by Churches bearing the name of the Saint. The line would thus start on the coast below Llanddewi-Aberarth, and crossing the Teifi at LIanddewi-Breh, would go up to Builth in Breconshire. On the southern side of this boundary we find numerous Churches dedicated to S. David and facing them OIl the northern side another series bearing the name of S. Paturnus or some of his companions. Churches dedicated to S. Padarn in the centre and north of Radnorshire carry the boundary of his Diocese round the whole of that county, with the exception of the Deanery ofElvael, which is on the southern side. Numerous dedications to companions of S. Paturnus through Montgomery- shire, and the :suuth of Merionethshire, create a slight probability that the southern portion of both these counties may have been subject to S. Paturnus's jurisdiction. The great Church of Cardiganshire, Llanbadarn- fawr, forming its central point, the limits of the see probably fluctuated with those of the principality of Ceredigion, whilst there is reason to believe that the district of Ceredigion extended at one time north of the Dyfi, so as to take in a part of Gwynedd, pro- perly so called. (" Vestiges of the Gael in Gwyn- edd,"t p. 44.) How long Llanbadarn continued to be a Bishoprick cannot be ascertained. The last notice of it under that character in the Welsh Chro- nicles is in the year 720, when it is recorded, (Brut y Tywysogion, Myf. Arch., vol. ii. p. 472,) that many of the Churches of Llandaf, Mynyw, Llanbadarn, meaning the three Dioceses of South Wales, were ravaged by tho Saxone. The Church of Llanbadarn- fawr, after the cessation of the episcopate, retained something of a cocnobitic or collegiate character, to, at least the beginning, or more probably the middle, of the thirteenth century, in spite of an attempt at the commencement of the twelfth century to appro- priate its revenues to the Abbey of Gloucester. We find Geofrey de Henelawe, Bishop of St. David's from 1203 to 1214, instituting a Rector of Llanbadarn without respect to the rights of the Cannons, an un- exampled act," says Giraldus Cambrensis, on the part of a Bishop of St. David's." (Hist. and Ant. of S. David's, p. 275.t) Llanbadarn was finally appro- priated in 13H0 to Vale Royal, (vide Lib. Stat. Eccl. Menev.) Published by the Welsh MSS. Society. t By the Rev. W. Basil Jones. By the llev. W. Basil Jones, and Edward Augustus Freeman.

PETTY SESSIONS, LLANILAR. Friday, 7 th February, 1868. Before G. W. Parry, Esq., and James Davies, Esq. ASSAULT. Margaret Wood, of Nnntyberws, Yspytty Ystwytb, a miner's wife, was summoned by Margaret Howells, a widow, of the same place, for assault, committed on the 30th January last. Margaret Howells, sworn: Witness lives next door to the White Lion;" On the 1st January last witness was assisting her father to the house, when she met the defendant, who threw stones at her, and otherwise interrupted her. Was struck on the head with a large stone thrown by the defendant. Never said anything to the defendant, nor the defendant to her. William Rowlands, sworn: corroborated the evi- dence of the complainant, his daughter. William Selby was called to speak to former similar offences. The parties lived on bad terms. The defendant was ordered to be bound over to keep the peace for 12 months in the sum of lOl. ALLEGED ABUSE. William Rowlands v. Elizabeth Wood. The compiainaut was a very old man, and the defendant a very young child. Mr Parry asked whether this was a case to come before the magistrates, an old man against a young child. The complainant said that he had been attacked by a number of children, of which the defendant was the biggest, (under 4 feet high.) William Selby, sworn The witness was called to prove the charge, but he could prove nothing. The complainant said he bad frequently warned the parents of the defendant to keep his children in order. The father of the defendant, who was present, de- nied this statement. Fined Is and costs. The bench cautioned the father of the defendant to pay more attention to the conduct of his children. The father of the defendant said he would not pay the fine; and the chairman told bim in that case bis young child would have to be sent to prison. Several affiliation cases were disposed of. A large number of summonses for non-payment of rates were also heard and disposed of. The usual order were made in these cases. TRESPASS IN PDRSOIT OP GAMB. Earl of Lisburne v. David Jones §■ Edward Lewis. One of the defendants is a miner, and the other a farmer. P. C. Samuel Davies proved service of summons. John Humphreys, sworn, examined by Mr F. R. Roberts, of Aberystwyth, solicitor for the complain- ant Witness is and has been game keeper to Lord Lisburne for the last two years. Saw the deferi- dants on the 18th of November last shooting on his lordship's property, a farm in the occupation of the late Mrs Raw. Each had a double barrelled gun, and Jone9 i) td a setter dog, and Lewis a greyhound. Saw David Jones shoot a grouse. This was between 2 and 4 o'clock in the afternoon. Both had game in their possession. Lord Lisburne has the right of shooting ovf r that land. The chairman said the case was clearly proved, and this was a ca"e in which the extreme penalty of the law should be inflicted, the bench had there- fore decided that the defendants he fined 21. each and costs, or in default 3 weeks each imprisonment in Cardigan gaol with hard labour. Earl of Linburne v. William Bonner. Thomas Hopkins, sworn, proved seeing the de- fendant and others settiug nets on the property of the Earl of Lisburne. Nets produced. Bonner was one of the men. He had a ferret in his pocket, I and said the nets were his. Fined 21. and costs, or in default to be imprisoned for three weeks with hard laboui in the House of Correction.

t ELERCH PENNY READINGS. On Tuesday evening last was held the second of these meetings at the school-room of the above place, Owing to the success which had attended the first meeting, a very large audience had assembled on the second, while the entertainment itself was ex- cellent,, aiid proved really a treat to all who were concerned in it. The singing of the T:\lybont glee pcrty was, as might be expected, good, the altos of which deserve particular mention. The Elerch glee class also attended. Solos were sung by Messrs. W. M. Jones, T. Allen, and Master P. Edwards; and duetts by Mr. W. M. Jones and Miss M. Richards, and by Messrs. J. Pritchard and T. Roberts. The singing throughout proved a great success both as regards solo and class singing. As regards recitation and reading, Mr Thomas Allen, (Alltud o Glyn Sebon,) was decidedly the favourite, the "lion of the evening." He gave some readings in good style; and his own poetical compositions, which he recited, were adjudged by some poetical critics who were present to be sensible, moral, and poetical. He deserves great encouragement, as he undoubtedly possesses no ordinary talents as regards Welsh literature. Other young men gave some readings in a variety of styles, it being the first time for many to read in public, and were consequently nervous, and did themselves injustice; but as practice makes perfect," so these will no doubt make progress. The chairman of the evening, Rev. J. Edwards, complimented those who had taken part in the proceedings, and expressed him- self highly pleased with them. The programme of this evening was a long one.-W. M. JONES.

♦ LAMPETER POPULAR ENTERTAINMENTS. The sixth of a series of these entertainments took place at the National School-room on Friday se'n- night, when the chair was ably filled by the Rev. T. Theophilus, who made an appropriate address be- fore he commenced to call over the programme, which was as follows .-solo, pianoforte, Ecoulez Moi," Miss H. Davies, Emlyn House; Glee, Forester," choral society Reading, The Rising Tide," Mr Meredith; Song, "The Spirit of Joy," (loudly encored,) Miss Leith; Reading, "The Woman of Mind," Mr T. Lloyd Song, Should he upraid," Miss Grainger; Reading," Never Despair," Mr T. Jones; Duet, "When Bee and Bird are Singing," Miss Leith and Mr A. G. Lewis, accom- panied on the pianoforte by Miss J. Evans; Read- ing, Amhemlerfynolrwydd Dyn," Mr 8. Davies, sen.; Song, "Thou art gone from my gaze," Mr Meredith; Reading, "Ye Mariners of England," Mr Broad Comic Song, Poor Slighted Wife," (loudly encored,) Poor Married Man," Mr T. Lloyd; Reading, "The Hii,etiots' Battle Hymn," I Mr A. G. Lewis Glee," Lightly Treading," Choral Society Finale, "God Save the Queen," Miss Grainger, accompanied on the pianoforte by Miss A. Evans. MUs A. Evans presided at the piano, and accompanied most of the above singers in their respective partli.- Cummunicattd. ♦ PONTRHYDFENDIGAID PENNY READINGS. On Thursday, the 30th ult., the fourth of a course of penny readings was held at the Britisb School- room. The success which has attended these meet- ings hitherto is a matter for congratulation to the performers who have so readily come forward to form the programme. The chair was occupied by Mr. J. Thomas. In the opening address the chair- man dwelt on the highly edifying and interesting nature of penny readings when conducted in a pro- per spirit. He had before him a tastefully selected programme, containing instructive pieces, in'er- spersed with others which would amuse and relieve the evening from all monotony. The following was the programme :— Song—" Bonnie Dundee" chorus. Mr J. Williams's rhnir Glee-" Codiad yr Haul" Bont Glee party Reading-" Dadl y Ceffyl Benthyg"Lewis Evans and D. Thomas Song—" Paddle your own Canoe "J. Parry, (chorus with accompaniment) Mr J. Williams's choir Reading-" Modryb Nansi" J. Jones, Llwyngog Glee-" Fy Ngwlad" Swyddffynon Choir Reading-" Caethwasaeth" J. Jones Song—" Have you seen her lately" Roberts Reading-" Die Sion Dafydd" D. Morgan Duet-" Dafydd a Rbys yr hen lanciau" E. Wil- liams and D. Davies Reading-" Evan Benwan" L. Evans Glee—" A Canadian Boat Song Bont Glee party Song—" The Cork Leg J. Parry, (with accom.) Reading—"Jaeki yn cyfrwyo y fuwch "J. Williams Song-" Y Milwr Clwyfedig Misses Kate and Susannah Hughes Dialogue-" Y Cybydd a'r Cadolwraig" J. Jones and Miss Thorna" Glee-" Lordlv Gallants" Mr J. Williams's choir Reading—" Died from Starvation" J. Parry Duet—" Morgan a'i Wraig "E. Williams and Miss K. Hughes Reading-U Aronig ar ei thaith .Misses M. Wil- liams and C. Richards Y Wraig yn 'mofyn Morgan o'r Dafarn "Misses Thomas and Jones, and J. Richards SODg-U NadoIig Hen Lane" J. Jenkins, (chorus by Bont Glee party) Can y Dodrefyn" j. Williams Finale-" Yr hen amser gynt" E. Williams (chorus by Bont Glee party) A vote of thanks to the chairman closed a very pieanant evening.- Communicated.

CORRESPONDENCE. We do not hold ourselves responsible for the opinions and sentiments of our Correspondents.

THE WATER QUESTION. TO THE EDITOR OF THE ABERYSTWYTH OBSERVER. Dear Sir,-Mr Szlumper's flourish at the end of his letter in your last week's publication is rather inconsistent with some of his previously expressed sentiments in regard to propriety in indulgence in personalities. Doubtless he has had a long experience in the practice, as he calls it, of Parliamentary Com- mittees, though the Blue books are silent as regards his labours. Is he quite certain that some of the most successful engineers, aye, and those of the highest reputation in Parliamentary practice, are not members of the Institution of Civil Engineers ? Upon what basis did his own qualifications rest before he himself became connected with that body ? Perhaps he will tell you that this wonderful baptism of his had the retrospective effect of purification of all his early professional shortcomings, and must necessa- rily, therefore, have white-washed all his works. Since he became a member of this institution he has done nothing. He puts me in mind of a German quack doctor who, after honestly pursuing his voca- tion for a time as such, feels a thrilling ambition and sighs after greatness, and impatiently rushes to the fatherland, where the degree he pants for is at once conferred upon him "for a consideration." I need not tell you, Mr Editor, that the Institute of Civil Engineers has no legal status whatever, and that it is simply a club or superior sort of mechanics' insti- tute, where the dilletante meet weekly, in London, to discuss harmless questions very mildly, and deceive themselves into thinking it scientific. To Mr Szlumper personally I shall say, "Salaam, to your condescension, may your shadow never be less." I now proceed, Mr Editor, to notice such parts of Mr Szlumper's letter as affect the question in which we are all so vitally interested. The calcula- tions for delivering and estimates of cost were given for 6-inch, 7-inch, 8-inch, and 9-inch mains respec- tively, and to the commissioners, to whom the choice more properly belonged, was left the selection of the size of the mains. The figures shew that for the present requirements of the town a 6-inch main would be sufficient. Here I am, aghast! On pur- suing Mr Szlumper's remarks, the following fas- cinates me, my very breathing becomes difficult, I am almost in in a state of coma read, Mr Editor, read, aye, and mark, and learn too "Perhaps Mr George Jones does not know that my proposed source of supply is very much higher than that of Doctor Williams's, and that, therefore, a 6-inch main will be fully adequate for a constant supply for 10,000 inha- bitanta I" Put this quotation, dear Mr Editor, in italics. Now, the height of Nanteos reservoir above the Rbeidol bridge, the Trefechan side of Aberystwyth, is 268 feet, the distance being 41 miles, and the fall per mile is 61*5 feet. A 6-inch main will deliver under these conditions 216 gallons per minute. According to Mr Szlumper's own statement the distance of the source of his proposed supply is 13 miles, and the height 800 feet; the fall here is pre- cisely the same per mile as that stated, namely, 61 "5 feet per mile, and of course the delivery is exactly the same amount. What! he who delights in flourishing the M. Inst. C.E." in our faces, to commit himself like this! aye, and in print, too! Was the baptism before mentioned performed in Lethe ? The mains from the Nanteos reservoir can be laid by the side of the turnpike road, no metal will be disturbed, and they will be easy of access at all times for repair—in short, of all lines for such works, such a one as this is to be preferred. The estimate of the excavation and filling, in reference to this part of the proposed scheme is, if anything, too high. Now, the contrary Mr Szlumper proposes to lay his pipes along the side of the railway, (you must catch your fish before you cook him, Mr Szlumper.) Is there no danger to the pipes from the great vibra- tion caused by heavy trains ? Is there no danger from the continual sinking of the embankments ? Can the Ystwyth be bound over to keep the peace ? Is it very convenient at all times to follow and repair damaged pipes, and other necessary works, along a line of railway ? Lastly—for I must stop, so many and so great are the objections to this crude and wild scheme, which crowd upon me-who is to be responsible to the railway company for the damage which their line may sustain from accidents to the main ? One remark more, and so rnuch for Mr Szlumper." How would the town feel if, upon rising some fine morning in the midst of the season, after a heavy flood, it found that its patronymic, the Ystwyth, in her wrath and jealousy for the many slights she bad suffered at her children's hands, had ruthlessly obtained for herself a little of the pure water she also stands so much in need of? I am yours faithfully, GEO. JOXES.

NEW BUILDINGS. TO THE EDITOR OF THE ABERYSTWYTH OBSERVES, am happy to find that you "do not hold yourself lespoiihible for the opinions and sentiments of your correspondents." Some one, who calls him- self" A Commissioner," has made certain remarks in your last impression in respect to the houses I am now building. I am certain that anyone who knows what sort of a place that was upon which my houses now stand, will readily admit that the person who calls himself" A Commissioner" must be very igno- rant of the state of things, and ought to have enquired into mutters before he made the childish remarks contained in his letter. I ask any commissioner who knows anything of building, and is possessed of im- partial judgment, which everyone ought to have, is the house I have already built, and will the two houses I have in course of erection, be a "disgrace" to the'• Brighton of Wales"? Would it have been better to have left the unsightly piece of land as it was i I believe that every commissioner except this beauty will say that I have effected a very great im- provement in this part of the town, which was for- merly a nuisance. I have lived four summers in my new house, and during that time no one made any enquiry about "back premises," of which he says I am deficient. I have had a highly respectable medical gentleman and his family lodging with me, and also a family of rank, and the house has been recommended by one of our own medical gentlemen. So the remarks made by the learned "Commis- siouer" must have originated in pure animosity, with the view of throwing a dark shade on the pro- perty I have striven so hard to get together. I don't know how anyone could convert that land into better use, except this clever "Commissioner," who must be a great coward, or he would have given us his real name. But I tancy he must be aware that his name is too well known already, and that the public would soon say, Get thee hence, Satan, we know thee of old." He also asserts that I admitted at the com- missioners' meeting that I had no light nor air in some of the rooms. Here again is a plain proof that the man s object is to injure me. I never mentioned any rooms, but the staircase leading to the kitchen, which is rather dark, owing to the back door being shut up by building the new bouses that was the reason why I made the application for a small area. The application was refused on the ground that the footpath was too narrow. Such treatment brought to my mind the tale about the gentleman who was sitting before the fire in deep study, and finding that the fire was too hot rang the bell with great force, when up came the servant and thJ gentleman said, Send immediately for the mason to shift back the y grate, the fire is too hot." Sir,"said the servant, very coolly, perhaps you will allow me to shift the chair a little further from the fire." There is some Jack of a Commissioner," who has no interest whatever in the welfare of the town, crying out, "Down with the porticoes and bay windows No areas ought to be allowed! The footpaths are too narrow!" It is time that all who wish to beautify the town should come out as one man, and give the alarum—ring the bell in earnest. Instead of taking down the grates shift back the chairs a little. And I say, Don't prevent porticoes, bay windows, &c., &c., to be erected, but grant a little more footpath, and all will well." Strangers like bay windows, so that they may see all they can while here. Hoping that this Commissioner" for the future will mind his own business with cheerfulness, and think kindly of other people while they mind theirs, I remain yeurs, &c., THOMAS COLLINS.

4 LODGING-HOUSE BUILDING IN ABER- YSTWYTH. TO THE EDITOR OP THE ABERfSTWYTH OBSERVER. Sir,— By your kind permission, I shall make a few remarks In reply to a letter in your last edition signed A Commissioner." In the first place, I find that "A Commissioner" is not very particular in taking his dimensions. My opinion is that his tape, (or whatever it was,) is of the India rubber quality, which be can draw out to suit his purpose when be measures bis neighbours' back yards, otherwise he could not have made the back yards of the five bouses opposite the Queen's Hotel to be ouly 21t. lOin. wide. A Commissioner" is quite welcome to try his hand once more. In the next place he complains that there is a "certain speculative builders who, actuated by a shortsighted spirit of greed, and that their build- ings are a disgrace to the age that we live in." May I ask *'A Commissioner" to wait till the 12th of May then he shall pronounce his judgment as regard the greed he is talking about. I think that building bouses will be a great boon to Aberysiwytb then. Perhaps we shall be able to get a house for 201. instead 0130L., which would be nearer the mark. It is the landlords that are greedy, who make us to pay 201. instead of 141, or 151., for a bouse. But I suspect "A Commissioner" has two or three houses to let, therefore we must not wonder at him. One word more, Mr Commissioner,—The summer visitors to this town do not want to perambulate the back yards of their lodgings; all that they are in want of is, a good cook, a clean housemaid, and the con- veniences that are requisite for a human habitation, which "A Commissioner" will find in tue five houses opposite the Queen's Hotel. I hope that these few lines will satisfy A Commissioner" till the time specified. I am, Sir, yours truly, Feb Qth. C. JAMES.

WRECK IN THE BAY. The terrible disasters which have throughout the winter left their marks upon our coasts send us daily messages from the deep of the extent of damage they have worked. During the last four days four puncheons of rum have been washed ashore at Aberdovey, 146 casks of spirits of turpen- tine have been recovered here, 44 casks at Borth, and 34 at Aberdovey—each cask containing 30 gallons. This vast amount of property has been conveyed to the custom house in this town.wherethe question of salvage will be settled. It is reported that five puncheons of rum were washed ashore at Aberdovey, and 10 at Barmouth. ODDFELLOWS' ENTERTAINMENT.—The society of Oddfellows gave a literary and musical entertain- ment in the Assembly Rooms, on Tuesday evening. The programme was varied and attractive, and the proceeding8 went off satisfactorily.

THE MARKETS. ABERYSTWYTH, Monday, February 3rd, 1868. Wheat 9s. Od. to 9s. 6d. per bushel, Barley 5s. od. to 5s. 3d., Oats 2s. 6d. to 3s 3d. per bushel, Potatoes 3s. Od. to 3s. 2d. per bushel, Butter (fresh) Is. ld., (salt) lid. per lb., Eggs 20 for Is., Cheese (Welsh) 3d. per lb., Beef 6d. per lb., Mutton 6d. to Od. per lb., Veal 6d. to od. per lb., Pork 5|d. per lb., Turbot Is., per lb., Fowls 2s. 4d. to 2s. 6d., per couple, Geese Os. od. to Os. Od. per couple, Ducks 4s. Od. a couple, Partridges 2s. 6d. a brace, Phea- sants 5s 6d. a brace, Hares 2s. 6d. each, Rabbits Is. each, Oysters (natives) Is. Od. to 3s. 6d. a score, Grapes Is., a pound, Apples 2s. per 100, Herrings | 6s. per 100, Wool Is. Od. per lb. OSWESTRY. Wheat, 10s. Oil. to lis 6d., Barley, grinding, 5s. 3d. to 5s. Od., Oats, 45 6d. to 4s. ;«1., per measure, Buiter, 's. 2il. to Is. 3d. a lb., Fowls 3s. 6(1. to 3s. 9d. a couple, Eggs 10 to 12 for Is., DucM, 4s Od to 4s Od a couple, Potatoes, 10 lb. for Od. WELSHPOOL.—per 801b., Us Od to Used, Barley, per 40 qts., (Is OJ to ('s 3d, Oats per bag, 18s 0,1 to 23s Od. Eggs 11 for ts, Butter Is 2d to Is 3d per lb, Fowls 3s Od to 4s Od a coup'e, Ducks, 4s Od to 58 Od., Potatoes 4s. Od. to 5s. Od. per bushel- "VVKEXHAM.—White Wheat lis. 3s. to lis. 6d" Red Wheat lis. Od. to lis. 2f\ Oats 4s. Od. to 4s. 6d., Malting Bailey 6s Od to 6s. 3d., Grinding barley 5s. 6s. to (5s. Od., Potatoes 3s. Od. to 3s 9d. a measure, Butter Is. 2d. to Is 3d. a lb., Fowls 3s. 3d. to 4s. Od. per couple, Ducks 4s. to 4s (3d. per couple, Esgs 9 for Is.

THE GOGEHDUAN FOXHOUNDS WILL MEET ON Tuesday, 11th February. Crosswood Friday, 14th February. Glaorheidol EACH DAY AT 10 O'CLOCK.

fHarnage. On the 4th inst., at Penllwyn Chapel, by the Rev. Richard Lumley, of Birkenhead, Mr John Watkins Lumley, Timber Merchant, Liverpool, (eldest son of the late Mr John Lutnley, Builder, ot this town,) to Mary, second daughter of the late Mr James Rowlands, of Troedrhiwlwba, near this town. iDeatbg, On the 3rd inst., after a protracted illness, aged 3i years, Mr Henry Griffiths, Tansumnai, near this town. On the 4th inst., aged 97 years, Jane Morgans, widow, of Sheldon Court, Tanycae. Deceased was the eldest inhahhant of this town, and one of the vf ry few of an advanced age remaining who have been bred and horn here. On the 6th inst., aged 52 years, the Rev. David Evans, Calvinistic Minister, Eliw, near this town