The Aberystwith Observer

THE COUNCIL AND THE RESERVOIR. The Town Council have at length determined to proceed with the new reservoir works in good earnest, and decided, on Tuesday, that the four walls should be pulled down and re- constructed on a different plan, the thickness to be greater, with more batter. Of course, on Tuesday, there was a free expression of opinion; and it may be sure that Mr. John James did not fail to avail himself of the privilege of free discussion, in which he de- lights so much. Like Mr. James, we never cared for the almost perpendicular walls of the reservoir, which looked too much like the sides of a box, but it has to be borne in mind that the plans were ap- proved of by the Local Government Board Inspector, and also by the Chief Engineer of the Department, both of whom may be sup- posed to know something of walls and reser- voirs. It is due to Mr. James to say that he, AS well as Mr. Green, objected to the plans and the walls. It is out of respect to a senti- ment which has possessed the public mind, rather than from actual necessity, that the Council decided to have the walls of greater width. It is true that Mr. Robinson advocated the six-foot theory, and it was for that reason ¡ that the Council adopted that width for three of the new walls, the fourth, for cer- tain reasons, to be six inches narrower. The decision was arrived at only after a good deal of manoeuvring. Mr Peter Jones having proposed that the east wall be five feet six inches, and the others five feet, at the base, Mr. John James proposed that they should I all be six feet, and as each received an equal number of votes, the Mayor succeeded in getting a couple of other propositions, one I being moved by Mr. Richard James, and seconded by Mr. Wynne, but not carried, whilst another, which was ultimately agreed to unanimously, was moved by Alderman Roberts, and seconded by Alderman Wil- liams, that the north, south and west walls should be six feet, and the east five feet six. In order to effect an agreement between the different proposers, a suggestion, thrown out by the Town Clerk, that Mr. Robinson be asked if he would agree with the slight alter- ation from his recommendations, was adopted, and it was also agreed, at the sug- gestion of the Corporation Solicitor, that one or two other matters should be mentioned to Mr. Robinson. This was done, as Mr. Issac Morgan and Mr. E. J. Jones explained, in order that the responsibility may not rest entirely upon the Council. Throughout the discussion, which was important and intri- cate,the Mayor, by his thorough acquaintance with facts and figures, did much in assisting the Council to arrive at a fair conclusion.

Fifteen pounds a year is certainly far from an exorbitant salary to pay a matron of a workhouse, and no Board of Guardians could be accused of spending the money of the rate- payers extravagantly if they complied with such a modest request as that made by Mrs Thomas, on Monday last, to advance her salary by five pounds a year: The matron of the Aberystwyth workhouse is acknowledged to be an industrious and painstaking official, and deserved all that was said of her by the Rev John Pugh and Mr Isaac Morgan. No doubt at the next meeting of the board the advance asked for will be granted, especially when such a reasonable request is moved by Mr Isaac Morgan, who is always a jealous guardian of the ratepayers' pockets. To-day is noted in the calender as being St Swithin's day, and is looked forward to by the superstitious with hope and fear. From chil- dren we are somehow or other led to believe thatjust what the weather is on the fifteenth of July so it will continue to be for the ensuing forty days. Probably, the origin of thissuper- stition is not known to the ordinary reader, and whether St Swithin ever appeared on the earth is not often enquired into; but history says that he wasthesevei teenth bishop of Winchesterand tutor to good King Alfred, therefore it may be inferred that he was a man of much intelligence The association of his name with a continuous season of rainy or fine weather is said to have arose in this wise He was a saint who wrought many miracles, but the most celebrated was a rain of forty days' continuance, by which he testified his displeasure at an attempt of the monks to bury liim in the chancel of the minster, instead of the open churchyard, as he had di- rected. Thus has the tradition been handed rected. Thus has the tradition been handed down from generation to generation. We are told that a similar belief prevails in France, but there it is connected with the fete days of St Medaid (June 8th), and St Gervais and S Prolais (June 15), while in Holland it is con- nected with St Godelieve. The poet as well as the historian has memorialised St Swithin's day, and one rhymester has it: St Swithin's day if.thou dost rain, For forty days it will remain St Swithin's day, if then be fair, For forty days 'twill rain n&e mair. At the last meeting of the Board of Guar- dians, Mr John Morgan, Gwarallt, gave notice that he would move a resolution memoralising the Government in favour of retaining the University College of Wales at Aberystwyth. This is an all important and absorbent subject for the town, and one which we think should have been discussed more freely ere this Carnarvon and Bangor have been on the move for months past, and have even gone so far as to send memorials to the Aberystwyth Board of Guardians asking their co-operation to secure its removal to one of these towns. From the apathy displayed by our townspeople it would appear that it is perfectly immaterial to them if the College was removed to-morrow, appa- rently unmindful of the financial and social benefits which such an institution must confer upon any town. Strange indeed does it appear that country guardians should show greater interest in the welfare of the town than those in authority among us. But it is only. fair to Mr Alderman John Jones (mayor) and Mr Isaac Morgan to say that both these gentlemen have been throughout opposed to the lethargic spirit displayed by the Town Council in this matter. Mr John Morgan, Gwarallt, is to be congratulated that in moving in this important matter he was assured of the unanimous sup- port of hij brother guardians, and we also hope it may be the means of stirring the members of the Town Council to prove that they have the welfare of the town at heart. We are pleased to find the name of Mr John Evans (son ot Mr John Evans, Laurel-place), among the successful candidates who passed the final examination of the Incorporated Law Society held on the 23rd and 24th June. The Montreal Weekly Witness—an excel- lent paper-says that Mr Davitt's communistic scheme would not be popular in America among Irish Americans, who, having property in America themselves, are not at all inchned to communism. The first intimation that the British Fleet had commenced firing on the Alexandrian forts reached this town at half-past seven on Tuesday morning, the news having been wired to Mr C. M. Williams by the CeE tral News. During Tuesday and thu following days Mr Williams received a number of telegrams which were printed and promptly distributed through the town. In this matter Mr Wil- liams is do ng at his own cost what the Read- ing Room Committee might well undertake. In almost all other towns the Reading Rooms are supplied with telegrams, which prove a <rroat attraction to subscribers. During the week the news has been posted up at the Observer Office, where it has been read by large crowds.

PAUPERISM IN CARDIGANSHIRE. Mr Bircbam, the Local Government Board Inspector of Unions for South Wales, has pre- sented his return showing the number of paupers in receipt of relief on the 25th March, I lRSI, and the 25th March, 1882, together with the expenditure for the years ended Lady-day, 1881 and 1882 To those who are interested in noting the cost of pauperisai in the several unions such a document will be carefully studied, and the result will be a sure indication I' of the prosperity or otherwise of the inhabi- tants in the unions embodied in the report. ¡ On the whole, Cardiganshire has reason to be i well satisfied with the economy shown by Boards ofGuardiansin the administration of the moneys collected for the relief of the poor, be- cause we find that three of tlie unions stand among the first six of those who have the lowest percentage of pauperism on a given day — the 25th March—Aberystwyth and Tregaron lowest percentage of pauperism on a given day -the 25th March—Aberystwyth and Tregaron being bracketed in the second four, and Aber- aeron coming third, while Cardigan brings up the rear, having the highest percentage of any union coming under the surveillance of Mr Bireham, and Lampeter occupies a middle position. Comparing the actual number of paupers in the five Cardiganshire unions on the 25th March, 1881, with the number on the 25th March last, we find the following result :— A beraeron, 353—380—increase, 27; Aber- ystwyth, 8-34-758-decrease, 76 j Cardigan, l'181"-1 >194—increase, 13; Lampeter, 343— 342—decrease, 1; Tregaron, 353-297—de- crease, Q6: Taking the unions as a whole this is also satisfactory, the Guardians of the Aber- ystwyth and Tregaron unions being particularly worthy of congratulation. There is one fact that was mentioned by Mr H. C Fryer the chairman of the Aberystwyth Board, on Mon- day, which we think should be pointed out in „ reference to Iregaron Union—there is not a case of relief gran ted owing to destitution caused by the temporary sickness or want of work of male heads of families and single men, nor is i there one single woman in receipt of out-door I relief. Tregaron stands by itself in this mat- ter, and it must strike any one forcibly as being rather peculiar. Coming to the question of cost, Tregaron again takes the lead with a rate of I lid. Aberystwyth next, with Is Old. Lampeter, ls. 41-d. Aberaeroii, Is. 5-Jd.; and Cardigan, 2s. 2fd. From these facts and figures it may be fairly inferred that the unions in Cardiganshire, it we except Cardigan perhaps, are as well man- aged as any in South. Wales, and may bear favourable comparison with any of our English unions. We think the Aberyst- wyth union has every reason to be content with the administration of the poor law by its representatives. There are many reasons why we should not have been surprised had the pauperism being much greater; one of which, and perhaps the principal, is the great depres- sion which has existed in the mining interests of this neighbourhood for so long a time past. There are few districts even in Cardiganshire which are subjected to greater changes and fluctuations than this union, simply because a very large proportion in the agricultural dis- tricts are miners, and consequently as a class are more liable to feel any depression in trade which may from time to time arise. We be- lieve the present Board of Guardians to be a body of men actuated by the right motives, and while no undeserving case of poverty is al- lowed to go unassisted, by judicious and care- ful enquiry they are enabled to sift out those who would impose upon the charity intended for the helpless and destitute. The house committee, of which Mr Morris Davies, Mr Alderman Jones, Mr Isaac Morgan, the Rev John Pugh, Mr John James, and Mr John Jenkins, are most active members, carefully consider all new cases laid before them, and thus they are enabled to g'ive"the board a vast amount of information. The board is also very deeply indebted to its chairman, Mr H. C. Fryer, for the very excellent and judicious ad- vice which his great and varied knowledge en- ables him to tender on all questions of difficulty which may arise.

-.r. HUNTING APPOINTMENTS. FHE HON. GEOFFREY HILL'S OTTER HOUNDS will meet Cnesday, July 18th .Font Llanio, at 10 o'clock.

Mourning Cards, in various patterns, printed,J in iVelsh and English, at:the Observer Office, 1, North I 'arade, Aberystwyth, |

LOCAL AND DISTRICT NEWS. FoRESTRT.—The anniversRry of ti e Aberystwyth district of Foresters, comprising Aberaeron, Lam- peter and Aberystwyth, is announced to be held on Tuesday, August 8th, at Aberaeron. PBESJ3YTEI?.IA:NT CHTJECH.—The Rev Dr Edwards, principal of Baht college, will preach ot-morrow at the English Presbyterian Church, Newfoundland-st. ORDINATIONS BY THE BISHOP OF ST DAITID'S—AT the parish church of Abergwili on Sunday the Bishop of St David's ordained as deacons Mr Rice Jones, of St Bees College, Cumberland, on appointment as assistant curate at Trefilnn, Cardiganshire; and Mr Daniel Williams, B.A., of St David's College, Lam- peter, on appointment as assistant curate at Llan- guicke, Glamorganshire. The Lord-Lieutenant for Glamorganshire, Mr C. R. M. Talbot, has signified his intention of adding the name of MrB. T. Williams, Q.C., county court judge, to the commission of the peace for Glamorganshire, SWIMMING.—At the Welsh Woollen Mills Athletic Sports, held at Newtown, on Saturday, one of the events was a 200 yards swimming (handicap; race. First prize, silver watch, value X2 5s. Mr H. H. j Davies, Aberystwyth, was one of the competitors, starting scratch, and we are informed that "the Cardigan champion won easily." AN ABERYSTWYTH MAN IN AMERICA.—From the Cincinnati Commercial of June 23rd, we learn that Mr J. Edwards, son of Mr Edward Edwards. Great Darlrgate-street, took part in the annual entertain- ment m aid of the Ohio hospital: He sang two songs, "The Vagabond," and All hands ahoy," and the report says his voice was heard and appreciated beyond the walls cf the house." DR WILLIAMS'S SCHOOL, DOLGELLEY.—The fol- lowing pupils have passed the examination of the science and art department in animal physiology held .Y in May last: —Anna Maria, Rowlands, Bangor, Ellen Pierce, Conway, Mair Iwan, Bala, ind Alice Edward, Aberystwyth, Annie Tanner, Myfanwy Roberts, and Jane Crieves, of Dolgelley. The latter is entitled to a prize. Hannah Morgan, Bala, and Susie Roberts, Tyfos, have phssed in "geometry. Eunice Tritton, Anna Roberts, Aberystwyth, and Lily Roberts, Tyfos, have passed in model drawing. PROFESSOR E. H. PALMER.—Between Akabath the ancient Elath (the port from which Solomon's fleets sailed for Ophir), and the Sinaitio peninsula, there is a small region of country which is at present un- explored. Professor E. H. Palmer, the author of the "Desert fo the Exodus," has undertaken, for the Committee of the Palestine Exploration Fund, to pay a visit to this district, with the endeavour to complete the map of the scene of the Wanderings of Israel. Among the places which he proposes to examine may be mentioned the site of Kadesh Barnea, originally discovered by the Rev J. Rowlands, and more re- cently visited by Mr Clay Trumbull, of Philadelphia. Should time allow, Professor Palmer proposes also to revisit the very interesting city of El Barid, north of Petra, which he discovered in 1870, during his journey with N'r C. F. Tyrwhitt Drake. Professor Palmer left London on Friday morning of last week. THE PUBLIC BATHS.—Last week the number which visited these baths was greater than in any previous week during the season, more than 300 per- sons availing themselves of the convenience of these public and pirvate baths. The present week presents a, a still increased patronage, 000 persons having gone in. I DRAMATIC COMPANY.—Mr T. R. Nugent and his drama company are nightly drawing large audiences at the Bijotx Theatre, Portland-street, and it is cer- tainly one of the best companies that has visited this town for a long time past. The acting on the whole is good, all the performers evidently being well- trained and worthy of the profession which they have adopted. On Monday evening they performed ''Sen- tenced to death Wednesday, "Peep o' Day and Thursday, "Nobody's child." We can speak more particularly of the last-named performance, and cer- tainly some of the scenes were portrayed in a most life-like and real manner. Mr Har^y Simmes is an excellent comedian, and he is also a useful man in other parts. We can heartily recommend a visit to the Bijou during the stay of this company. ENTERTAINMENT.—An entertainment was given at Newfoundland-street chapel on Friday evening week, Mr Edward Ellis in the chair, and there was a good attendance. The following was the programme1 -Singing, Up with thy hands to Jesus;" recitation, (competition) for children under ten years of age, Dare," Aijtonia Davias, 1 Emily Davies, 2 part song, Ardwyx school; recitation, Mr Ffoulkes Jones, Arnwyn school recitation (competition) for girls under 15, 11 The Steamlet," Mary Roberta, 1; S. E. Benbow, 2; pianoforte solo, Master A. H. James; song, Mr Roes, North and South Wales Bank; recita. tion (competition) for boys under 15, The con- science," vVilfy Ellis, 1 W. Davies, 2 part song, Ardwyn school; dialogues, Masters Finch and J. Edwards; song, Miss Lizzie Roberts; reading at first sight, David Jenkins, 1; song, Mr E. Jones Williams, London land Provincial Bank; r&citation, Mr J. Miller, Ardwyn school; presentation of prizes for learning out of the book of Proverbs, Johnny Eliis, 1, (k7 chapters); Martha Benbow, 2, (23 chapters); Emily Lloyd, 3; D. Jones, 4. The Rev R. Jones, Llanidloes, then made an interesting address on the importance of committing portions of scripture to memory. Singing at first sight, David Jones, 1; song, Miss "Katie Jones; part song, Ardwyn school. The adjudicators were the Rev.LL Edwards, M.A.; c Mr E. Jones Williams, London and Provincial Bank; and Mr T. W. Pow. II, grocer. The proceedings terminated with the usual votes of thanks. ACCIDENTS ON THE CAMBRIAN RAILWAYS.—About ten o'clock on Monday night, the 7.40 goods train from Machynlleth to Oswestry met with an accident when near Abermule, which caused considerable destruction to the permanent way, and in the death of several head of cattle, and a narrow escape for the driver, Levi Clough, fireman, and guard. It is believed that the canse of the:accident was owing to the breakage of the facing points, which is said to have happened by the passing over of a heavily laden excursion tram from Birmingham to Aberystwyth which was returning to the former place. The scene is described as one of great confusion, the carriages being pitched in all directions and into all shapes. The number of cattle killed was some twelve or four- teen. The work of clearing the line was proceeded with all despatch, but it necessarily caused a good deal of delay in the traffic, one of the consequences being' that the mail did tOt reach this town until an unusually lateliour on Tuesday morning. THE BLUE RIBBON ARMY.—An immense and en' thusiastic gathering took place in connection with this movement at the National Schoolroom, on Tuesday evening. A more uninviting eve- ning foi- people to leave their homes could hardly be imagined, and yet there must have been few short of 600 or 700 preseat, the large room being crammed. Councillor E. J. Jones was the chairman, and he was supported by the Rev W. Wilson, vicar of Narberth and local tenens here in the absence of the Rev Chancellor Phillips the Rev T. Levi, moderator of the Calvinistic Methodists Assembly; Alderman P. Williams, Mr Lloyd, of Newport, (a visitor), Mr W. Jones, North-parade, and others. The meeting was a thoroughly representa- tive one, and great interest was evinced in the pro- ceedings._ Several hymns were sung, which had a most enlivening effect. Mr Lloyd, of Newport, was .the first speaker, and he gave a detailed account of the work in Newport, where they have now some 10,000 persons belonging to the army, and he also incidentally mentioned that in Cowbridge more than half the population had donned the blue.—The Rev W. Wilson then made an eloquent address, in which he said that he felt it a Irivilege to be invited to address a meeting in that pla e upon a subject which he had so much at heart as that of temperaace, and then spoke of the progress ma., e by the Order in Haverfordwest, Car- marthen, lenby, and other places. The cause iu it- self was essentially strong, 90 that whatever draw- backs there may be for a time it must eventually largely and ixniversJly prosper. Difficulty connected with teetotaasai had now ceased, so that a person did not now reel singular, neither did it require ft great amount of self-denial. He had tried it for the last 12 years, so tnat he was quite justified in saying that experience warranted him in assuring th^m that if they tried it they would like it better year by year. The Blue Ribbon movement had bound up with it the gospel movement, and those who worked to promote this movement did not believe that total abstinence was the one thing needful; but they believed that the < gospel of Christ was the power of God to everyone that believed; they desired to promote the gospel itself through doing what they could to remove this < terrible hmirance-drmk He believed there was a great deal of truth in what Lord Shaftesbury—who was no speciahst-said a few years ago, if it were not for the efforts of temperance societies thy vice and 1 misery of this country would have reached such a pitch that this country would not haveibeen fit for any i respectable person to live in. And it was to the evil ] of CirunkenneoS that he in a great measure traced t the present state of Ireland, and there never was a s man who came so near curing the evils of tnat coun. try as that humble priest Father Matthew. They spent in Ireland 13" millions(of money in drink, which exceeded by 22 millions the whole amounts of the 5 rents for land.inithat country. The speakerlaffcerwards dealt with some of the objections raised against the movement, and concluded by earnestly asking all to prayerfully consider their duty to God and man in 1 the matter. The proceedings terminated with the usual votes of thanks. ] AUCTIONEERING.—1^ addition to the auctioneers and valuers referred, to in our last issue, it will be seen by an advertisement in another column that Mi- Frederick Stephens, Penrhyncoch, has taken out a licence. RECEIPT FORMS, in books of 50 each, price Is, may be purchased at the Observer Office, 1, North Parade. Very useful. MUSICAL FESTIVAL.—The United choir, under the leadership of Mr John Jones, will perform the ora- torios "Messiah" and "Sampson," in a pavilion to be erected on the old castle grounds, some time dar. ing the middle of next month. THE PIER.—Mr W. H. Palmer, the lessee of the pier, is displaying a great deal of energy in its man- agemelJ t iHs season, and the result is increased po- pularity and patronage. In ;addition to the town band performing there every evening, Mr Palmer en- gaged a lady and gentleman vocalist, and they have proved successful acquisitions. The gentleman's songs have a comio vein running through them, but are devoid of that vulgarity which was the conspicu- ous feature of the comic bluster we were in the habit of hearing last season. The pier is now probably the 1 chief attractian and it is the "k'rect thing" to do the Terrace in the morning, and the pier and the Terrace in the evening. Providing legitimate attrac- tions for our visitors is a matter of great importance and we are pleased to find that Mr Palmer is meeting with so large a measure of success. DEATH OF MR D. H. Ev ANs.Many of our read- ers will learn with regret of the death of Mr D, H- Evans, which took place at his residence in North- parade, early on "Wednesday morning. The deceased [ had not enjoyed good health for some months past; but it was not anticipated by any of his friends that his end was so near. He was a native of Bryncrug, Merionethshire, but made Aberystwyth the home of his adoption from his youth. He was first appren- ticed to the late Mr Joseph Roberts, draper; but this business being unsuited to his tastes, he after- wards entered the office of Mr William Thomas, soli. citor, and from there he went to Messrs Hugh Hughes and Sons. He held the appointment of registrar of births and deaths for upwards of twenty years, and upon the death of the late Mr Matthews, he was also appointed registrar of marriages. In addition to this he carried on the business of a coal merchant. MESSRS. SUTTON AND SONS' SEED WAREHOUSE. -The Morning Post, apropos of the Royal Show at Reading, gives an account of a visit to Messrs Sut- ton's seed premises :—Messrs Sutton's premises now cover an area of nearly eight acres, and on this are well arranged the numerous store-rooms and offices. On entering these from the market-place one finds himself in a long corridor, the walls of which are covered with Minton tiles, while on the left are rows of very graceful foliage plants. Beyond, and on each side, are the various offices, many of which, and cer. tainly those occupied by members of the firm, are in telephonic communication with every department. The ledger-room—in which the visitor will be shown that so numerous are the Browns and Smiths on the books of the firm that for each of these names a se- parato ledger is kept-is the largest ledger-room out- side a Government Office. This is but a specimen of what the offices of this large business are like. Everything is done here with a marvellous regularity On the occasion of our visit, but a few weeks ago, we saw several orders carried right through, and if any of our readers can during the show week see this they will have a treat. Nearly 2,000 letters arrived by the morning's post, and these were quickly opened and sorted, and each despatched to its proper part of the house. Those containing orders were first of all sorted in the counting-house, and the person ordering identified, and his order re-made out for the account. The order then went thrsush first the flower seed, then the vegetable, and finally the agricultural de- partment, and in each whatever was required was at once put up, when it went to the packer, who packed it, despatched the documents to the invoice-room, re- ceived a way-bill, which was with the parcel de- spatched by the railway vans in waiting. Everything worked as smoothly as a clock, and is an .admirable illustration of how beautifully, with proper arrange- ments and loyal allies in tke various departments, such a great business can be carried on. THE OWEN MEMORIAL.—A meeting of the com- mittee to promote a public memorial of the late Sir Hugh 07\ en, was held on Monday evening in one of the committee rooms of the House of Commons, Mr Puleston, M.P., presiding. Several Welsh members were present; also Mr Lewis Morris, Mr S. Evans, and other gentlemen- From the report of the trea- surer and of the Secretary, Mr H. Thomas, of the Loeal Government Board, it appeared that nearly X1000 had already been subscribed in response to privately issued circulars. It was re- solved to take steps for the formation of local committees to make public appeals for the object in view. Mr John Taylor was present as re. presenting] la leading temperance organisation, and the British and Foreign School Society, which the late Sir Hugh Owon did much to originate was also represented. It was decided to give such bodies, independent of the Welsh people, an opportunity of contributing. Tt is proposed that the memorial should take the form of a scholarship and a monu- ment probably in Carnarvon, which adjoins Sir Hugh Owen's native place. The monument is expected to cost between Y.1,400 and £ 1,500. Mr Rathbone, M.P., and Mr Samuel Morley, M.P., have each contributed .£50 to the scholarships, and « £ 10 to the monument fund. Other subscribers also distinguish in what proportions they desire their contributions to be divided. MISSIONARY MEETING.—A meeting was held at the Tabernacle Calvinistic Methodist Chapel on Wednesday evening, when the large edifice was liter- ally crowded. The Rev Tho mas Levi, pastor, pre- sided, and the proceedings war a commenced with the usual devotional exercises. The chairman then briefly addressed the congregation, and introduced a young man named William Williams, now a student at Guinness's college, near Sheffield, preparing for missionary work. He gave an interesting account of the work which was being done by the excellent institution in which he is carrying on his studies, and he also sang a solo. Then followed Isaac of Persia, in whem the principal interest of the meeting centred This extraordinary personage is also a student with Mr Guinness, aad his search and difficulties in seek- ing the truths of the Bible form a most interesting his- tory. When he was only twelve years of age,his father, who had learned sufficient of the truths of religion to know its value, died, and the last injunction he gave his son Isaac was that he should also seek some place where he could be instructed. With his father's blessing for his only portion the lad set out, and travelled on foot through Enrope-Italy, Turkey Russia, Germany, Austria, and France, until at last he arrived in Englard, and eventually ;ound a resting place at the above-named college, where he is pre- paring to again go out, it is hoped under happier nua. pices, to teach the truth to others. At the close of the address Isaac and Mr W. Williams sang a duet, and the proceedings terminated by singing the dox. ology. A collection was made, amounting to about eight guineas.

TREAT TO WORKMEN. The employdi at the Cambrian Enamel Slate and Maible works, Llanbadarn-road, until recently carried on by Messrs James Williams and Co., en- joyed a very pleasant tffaton Wednesday, at she expense of the new proprietor, Mr T. London. It consisted in the first place of an excursion to Towyn, and the day turning out most favourable, this in itself proved very pleasant, but on their arrival there, and having visited the plaoes of interest in the neighbourhood, the company adjourned to a large room connected with the Corbet Arms, where a bountiful supply of roast bee', Sec., See., awaited them, as well as copious potations of Temparance liquors. In the absence of his father, Mr Sidney London, whose popularity with the workmen is daily beectoing more marked, presided, and he expressed the pleasure he felt in being able to participate in the festivities, at the same time apologising for the absence of his father, assuring them that nothing would have given him more pleasure than being in their midst could he have conveniently done so. He hoped they would all enjoy the spread, and arged those who were non- absiainers from intoxicants not to make too free a use ot that beverage, he himself being a teetotaller. He assured them that their welfare was a matter of interest to him, that it would be his father's and his study to assist them, and if any of them were in trouble if they would bring their troubles to their employers they might be sure of sympathy and assistance (loud cheers.) Mr E. Ellis, auctioneer, who had acted as agent in the transfer of the business to Mr London, said his observations led him to believe that employer and employed would go on well together, Mr London being a thorough man of business. The town of Aberystwyth would also be benefited by such an acquisition, and while they all regretted his absence that day, he was well represented by his son, Mr Sidney London. lIe wished father and son long life and happiness* and success to the undertaking (cheers). Mr Evan Jones, one of the workmen, could not refrain from expressing his delight at the sumptu- ous provision made for them, and expressed the hope that his fellow workmen would not forget the kindness. He hoped to see the day when Mr Sidney j London would be a menib.r of the Town Council of Aberystwyth (cheers). Another woikman remarked that they had a*, worthy representative of the the Town Council at the table in the person of Mr Edward Hamer, are- further added that he bolieved there was the nucleus of a good Councillor m Mr Sidney London. Mr Hamer expre.ised the pleasure be felt in meet- ing them, and trusted that the mea would be faith- ful 10 their now employers and that they would get on well together. He also proposed the health of: Mr James Williams, their late employer. Mr James Williams replied. The company thpn separated, and mat together about 4.30, when a capital tea was provided for them, the proeeedin^s being gracod by ths presenee of two ladies, friends of Mr Sydney London. Complimentary speeches were again delivered,, and the company afterwards returned home by the nine p.m. train, hrving spent a most pleai-ant day. The whole of the provisions were supplied by Mr Edwards, Terrace-road Aberystwyth.

ABERYSTWYTH INFIRMARY. The monthly mreting of the board of management was held at tha inflsmary, in Little Datkgate-street on Wednesday, the 5th day of July, at eleven o'clock in the forenoon. Present —Mr mayor (chairman), Messrs M. Davies and David Jones, the Rational Bank also, Drs Jones and' Harries. The business transacted by the board was :-To appoint house visitors for tho ensuing month, when Mr J. Jones, mayor, Major Lewis, and Mr M. Davies were appointed to enquire it:to the state of the patients, and behaviour of officers ar.d sprvants to examine accounts and pass bills to consider a report of the state of the hospital for the past quarter. During the three months ending June 15 in-door patients and 77 out-door patietJIS have been under treatment. Eight of the in-door patients have been di-missed cured two, after being under treatment for some time were discharged as incur- able. The number of patients has been gradually: increasing, more especially the out door. There are at present five in the institution. Since the last' report several improvements have been made, so as to ensure to the patients every comfort.

TOWYN. The "Observer" is sold at Towyn by Mr T W Stealey, grocer, Porthgwjn. MIGHT HAVE BEEN WORSE.—She got up early,. and began sweeping and cleaning as usual, but,, instead of taking the sweppings out as she ought to have done, she threw them into the fire, the^Vfsult was an explosion, that blew out tho window, shook the house, and frightened all the people in the square. When the smoke and dust cleared away and tranquility restored, it was found that she had thrown a loaded cartridge into the fire, and the result might have been much worse.

LANBADARN. FIRE AT DOLE.—Yesterday evening week, a firfJ broke out in the outbuildings at Dele, the residence of Capt Westby. It is supposed to have originated in the saddle room, and rapidly spread to the other buildings, which were completely destroyed, in ad- dition to about a ton of hay which was in the loft.. Several implements were also consumed, including a chaff cutter. A. large number of persons assembled.. but the fire had assumed, too serious dimensions, so that it became impossible to conquer the flames.

FLATE ADVERTISEMHKT I SALE BY MR E. J. MGRGAN. Friday, July 21st, a 3 o'clock, at Rhiwarthen Ucha- 8 acres of Clover and Eve-grass, and 20 acres of Growing Hay. Also. 10 tons of Wheat Straw and 6 tons of Oat Straw.

THE TWENTIETH OF JULY. To the Editor of the Aberystwyth Observer. bir, The above date is the last on which claims for county votes may be claimed. For many years it has come and gene with nothing better than good inteu. tiona with many of our party. All zealous and in*"l- hgent Conservatives should look about tlu-m to stir up indolent bretbren to send in their claims. The organisation of our opponents has a lot to teach us in this branch of electioneering. To discuss who is onr candidate before providing- our register with the required number of votes is neither business-like nor the surest way to win the next contest. Truly yours, THE 14TH.

LIFE ASSURANCE. To the Editor of the Aberystwyth Observer. Sir,—It may not be uninteresting to your readers if I gave an idea of the magnitude of the Prudential Assurance Society's operations. After going through the ordinary branch, I was taken to the Industrial department. Besides issuing policies securing a given sum at death, for a stated sum payable qtiar* terly, half-yearly, or once a year, the Prudential" lays itself out specially to meet the means and aspi- rations of the working classes. If you are a sensible paterfamilias, like myself, you have long ftZo made provision so that your wifo and olive branches would not be left entirely to the cold charity o* tWworld if the bread-winner should be taken away in the prime ? i v ? know how hard it has sometimes been to spare th* two or three sovereigns which go in ore mium once a year and you probably know enough of many of your neighbours to be sure they are be. yond the chance of saving a sovereign at any time Here the industrial department steps in, and helps tho" working man or woman, in spite of individual pro- crastination and want of self help. If you cannot save 3d, 4d, or 6d a week, the agents of the Prudential will do it for you, and call every week for the money. And when they have done this for a year or two the insurer begins unconsciously to have a right to a decent little sum, such as husband, wife, or bairns would not have dreamed of-a,nd certainly not have saved-if they had never been induced to take a policy in the Prudential." A handsome staircase leads me to the principal floor of that part 01 the building used for the indus- trial business. When there I find from the out-look that the offices occupy the whole of one side of a street! And clerks are there not only in dozens but hundreds. There are desks, desks, desks—desks to the right, desks to the left, desks to the front, desks at the back; upstairs and down. There are desks and clerks at them busy entering, collating, checking off.Remembering that there are nearlyfive million per. sons assured in the Prudential, and that the weekly payments are all recorded in the immense books and various coloured papers which one sees all over the place,perhaps the staff ought to surprise no one,and if- there are premiums received there are also a good many payments to make; for a, few will die every week amongst those millions of customers.. £ 640 000 are not paid out in Y,5 or X10 or £ 20 without a good deal of labour in book-keeping. My policy in the Prudential, then, I am sure, is safely and cor- rectly kept. I have long been assured of the safety of the Prudential, and as I see that every care ia being taken to work an extensive organisation as cheaply as is possible consistent with efficiency, I have made up, my mind that it is as safe as the Bank of England. Tha balance sheets and reports which have appeared in the Observer have told how the company has gone ahead, and I leave the agents of the company to impress the truths of these figures upon each one on whom they have a chanoe of operat- ing. You have a superintendent for the Aberystwyth district. MAN ABOUT COUNTRY. Machynlleth, 28th June, 1882.

BIRTHS. GREEN.—July 1st, at Llansadwin Vica.rnge, the wife of the Rev P. W. Green, B.D., vicar of Llansadwrn and Llanwrda, of a son. JONES.—Jnne 27th, at Chalybeate-terrace, the wife of Mr James Jones, of a daughter. JONBS-July 12th, the wife of Mr W. M. Jones, Post Office, Machynlleth of a son. LEWTS—June 20tb, the wife of P.C. Joshua Lewis, New Quay of a daughter. MORRIS.—July 8th, the wife of Mr Lewis M. Morris. Penrhiwnewydd, Salem, of a son. MARRIAGES. ^muErS n]y ^th, at Aberystwyth, Mr Thomas Morrns,foundryman, to Miss Catherine Sophia Mathias, High-street, Aberystwyth. THOMAS JAMES.—July 12th, at Tregaron church, Mr David Thomas. Chapel-street, to Miss basannah James, Pentre, both of Tregaron. DEATHS. REES.-July 10th, aged 36 years, at Nanteos Arms, Tregaron, Miss Mary Roes.

MONUMENTS for Churches, Churchyards, and cemeteries, executed in Stone, Marble, and Granite, may be inspected in the Show Room, at R. DODSON'ij Marble Works, Snow-hill, Shrewsbury.