The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

ABERYSTWYTH BOARD OF GUARDIANS, Monday, November 8th.—Present: Mr Edwm Morris, vice-chairman, presiding; Mis. ) Morgan, Penllwyn; the Revs T A. Penry, Aberystwyth; John Dav-e?. Talybont; Mrs James, Mrs Davies, Messrs W. Thomas, B. E. Morgan, Hugh Hughes, Aberystwyth; D. Jones. Troedrhiwfronfrech; J. Richards, Tie- feirig; T. Oliver Jones, Thomas Joues, Llanfihangel Upper; LI. J. Lew 's, Lewis Richards., Cwmrheidol; E. J. Evans, Cnwcybarcud; John Jones Vaenor Lower; JoKh Davlea, J fanfi- h angel Lower. Wm Jones, Cyioethy- brenin; W. 1. Lewis, Borth; Thomas James, Cynnullmawr; John James, Llanbadarn Upper; William Mason, Llancynfelln; John Davies, Llan- fihangel Lower; Isaac Jones, Llan- ilar; Hugh Hughes, clerk; E. Llew- ellin, assistant clerk; W. Jones, mas- ter Dr Bonsall, medical officer; and the relieving officers. The Medical Di'spute.—The following letter from the Local Government Board, dated October 29th, was read:—"Sir,—I am directed by the Local Government Board to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 13th inst. requesting their sanction to the proposal of the Guardians of the Aberystwyth union to pay Mr G. R. E. Bonsall, medical officer of the Workhouse, the sum of 10s. 6d. in respect of the assistance obtained by him in the case of E. Cansell and to transmit the accompanying copy of a letter which the Board have received from Mr Bonsall. The Board request to be furnished with the observations of the Guardians on the subject and to be informed whether the Guardians would wish to re-consider the proposal in their letter of the 13th inst." The following letter is a copy of Dr. Bonsall's letter, dated October 16th:— "Sir,—At a meeting of the Aberystwyth Board of Guardians held on the 11th inst, it was proposed to allow me 10s. 6d. as payment of a fee of one guinea-, the charge sent to me by a local practitioner for his services in administering chloro- form to a patient in her confinement at the Workhouse. No local medical prae- tioner will give his services in administer- ing an anaesthetic in a similar case for a less fee than one guinea, and I respect- fully submit that I am not under the obli- gation to incur the risk of a possible disaster of the loss of life of a poor per- son by administering the paresthetic without the assistance of a medical man in instrumental and other complicated cases. The fee of one guinea has always been granted by this Board and sanc- tioned by your Department in similar cases. May I, therefore, request your Department to advise the Aberystwyth Board of Guardians as to the payment of the fee of one guinea for the administra- tion of anaesthetics and by doing so re- lieve me and the public of much anxiety in dealing with poor patients under my care and treatment ? I may mention that the contract fee allowed me for con- finement cases at the Workhouse is only 15s. which includes instrumental and com- plicated cases. Therefore, when a case arises requiring the assistance of another medical man, it is in my opinion un- reasonable on the part of this Board to expect me to pay any extra fees out of what I receive."—Mr J. Richards pro- posed that the Clerk should reply refer- ring the Local Government Board to their own orders. Dr Bonsall always re- ferred the Guardians to the orders of the Local Government Board. Why should not the Guardians take the same course ? They could also reply that they had made inquiries as to the practice in other unions where none of that friction occurred. The Clerk could inform the Local Government Board what was done in other unions from which satisfactory replies were received. He thought the Guardians should adhere to the proposal. —Mr Wm. Thomas did not think the Guardians should go further than reply to the Board's letter.—Mr J. Richards said Mr Thomas might turn the leaf a.s he liked. What he wanted was to inform the Local Government Board of their views and reasons for the proposal. They could not undo what they had already done. Life was too short to do things and continually undo them.—The Chair- man: Shall we refer the letter to the House Committee for consideration ? —Mr Richards Let us have a.n end to it now. Let the Local Government Board fight the principles which they themselves have laid down.—The Rev T. A. Penry: But they do not mention anaesthetics.—Mr J. Richards: Let them fight it out and explain their own attitude on their own orders. This game has been going on for ever so long and it is time it should be brought to an end.—Mr W. Thomas said he agreed with Mr Richards to reply to the Local Gov- ernment Board and point out what they had previously advir.ed the Guardians to dJ. The Board had written that the Guardians were not obliged to pay the extra fee and that the Medical Officer was responsible. The Guardians had also gone to the trouble of inquiring what was done Ai other unions and that in- formation could be forwarded to the Board. He seconded the proposition to state the reasons for the proposal to pay a fee of 10s. 6d.—The Rev T. A. Penry said he must aek what a poor person could do when it was necessary to under- go an operation. The Medical Officer was under no obligation to engage assistance and admin.ster anaesthetics, but it would be a terrible thing for any- one to undergo an operation of that kjnd without someone to administer anaesthetic. He did not know whether any of the Guardians had ever been under chloroform or any other form of anaesthetic A few weeks ago he under- went an operation.—Mr W.-lliam Thomas: You look quite well after it.—Mr J. Richards: And none tha worse. The Rev T. A. Penry added that since then he appreciated more than ever the skill which was necessary in administering anything of that nature on which life depended. If they could get it done for 10s 6d all the better; but if not he did not think a fee of JB1 Is. is too much in cases where life was in danger and where the "utmost skill was required, one of the most important and responsible duti a medncal man could possibly undertake. He did not want to interfere with the resolution, but wished to say how much Tie appreciated the value of an anaes- thetic and the skill required in its ad- ministration.—Mr William Thomas said Tie agreed with Mr Penry and that was why he desired to leave the matter open. He did not want to commit himself one way or the other, but thought it was 'their duty to themselves as guardians to inform the Board that they had neither "been ignorant nor negligent. They had communicated with several other unions to inquire what they paid and acted on those replies which were considered satis- factory. He thought the Board should be informed of those replies. If the Board were in favour of a higher fee, he would certainly not oppose it.—Mr Morgan said the material point in the dispute was that they did not expect the poor people in the Workhouse to undergo operations without having an anaesthetic. It would be a cruel thing to do so and he did not believe the Guardians wished it. He wais given to understand that no local man would administer anaesthetics for a fee less than £1 Is.. It seemed to him a simple matter. The Guardians must either pass that anaesthetics should not be administered, which he did not believe they would do, or they must pay what medical men insisted on having.— Mr J. Richards did not believe that what Mr Morgan had said was relevant. He could not see that Mr Morgan had said anything bearing on the question.—Mr Morgan: But I id not understand what you were speaking about.—Replying to questions, the Chairman said the Guardians made in- quiries in twenty other unions similar to Aberystwyth and Mr Richards added that all the replies stated that theire was no trouble about extra medical pay- ments. It was all very well for Dr Bon- sall to refer the Guardians to the Local Government Board in some cases. Why not do so always?—Dr Bonsall rose to speak when Mr J. Richards reminded the Chairman of a resolution previously passed that all communications from the Medical Officer must be made in writing. •—Mr Morgan He is only going to ask a question.— Dr Bonsall: I want to ask if this fee has been paid before. I behove fee of £1 Is. has been paid and all I ask for is what you have done before.—Mr J. Richards: I remind you of your dutv Mr Chairman.—The Rev T. Penry 'sug- ppsted that the Local Government Board should be asked to gve their advice- but the (barman said the Guardians had already been advised by the .Board. Mr J Richards: Everything is stated in their orders.—Tile Clerk; "llat the Board say i is that they will sanction any reasonable amount. They do not fix any sum.—Mr J. Richards: I agree that the Local Gov- ernment Board will sanction any amount beyond their instructions, but will not sanction anything below.—The Rev T. A. Penry Supposing we ask for their advice in this case?—Mr J. Richards: We have their advice in the orders.—The Rev T. A. Penry: But we can get to know what is their idea of a reasonable amount.—Mr J. Richards: Their idea of a reasonable amount would be anything.—The Rev T. A. Penry: Oh, no.—Mr E. J. Evans said all the Local Government Board asked in their letter was whether the Guardians wished to re-consider the proposal. He supported the proposition.—Mr William Thomas sand he was entirely neutral and would like to have more definite instruc- tions from the Local Government Boaod. They had written that the Medical Officer was responsible; but in his letter to them Dr, Bonsall practically saiid that he was not responsible. The Guardians ought to know their position exactly seeing that the Local Government Board had in- formed them that theMedical Officer was solely responsible.—The Chairman: He is responsible under the contract.—Mr Mor- gan read a section from an authority on poor law that the Local Government Board were prepared In any case where an anaesthetic had been required to con- sider an application from the Guardians for sanction to the nayment of a (reason- able sum for assistance. The question was what the Board considered a reason- able sum.—Mr W. Thomas: We had that reply before.—The Rev T A Penry said the Local Government Board stipulated the amount of extra fees to be paid in other cases and there was no reason why they should not do ■ so for administering anaes- thetics.—Dr Bonsall: They mention a reasonable amount. No one will say that a, fee of JB1 Is is unreasonable. There- fore, the Board would sanction that amount.—Mr J. Richards: From Dr Bon- sallrs view a. fee of JB1 Is may be quite reasonable.—Dr Bonsall: Not only in my view, but also in the view of the medical profession and of every other reasonable man.—The proposition was then carried. —The Rev T. A. Penry asked what would be done in the event of Dr Bonsall fail- ing to get assistance for a fee of 10s 6d ?— The Chairman: Dr Bonsall is responsible for the safety 'of the inmates under his contract.—Dr Bonsall again rose to speak and was received with cries of "Order;" but he was able to say that his respon- sibility did not refer to the administra- t:on of anaesthetics and he wished to give the Guardians clearly to understand that he declined to administer anaesthetics.— Mr E. J. Evans: Is Dr Bonsall the ruler of the meeting or you. Mr Chairman? Will you kindly rule the meeting? We have passed a resolution on this subject. —Dr Bonsall: I say that my responsib- ility does not refer to anaesthetics.—The Chairman: Will you put your answer in writing?—-Dr Bonsall: No, and I will not administer anaesthetics.—Mr EJ J Evans: Then kindly resign.—Mr J. Richards: Here is Dr Bonsall in his fighting attitude again.—Dr Bonsall: I am only explain- ing the matter.—Mr J. Richards: If Dr Bonsall is, not going to be responsible, let him as a man .—Mr E. J. Evans: Resign.—Mr J. Richards: Not only as a medical man, but as a man, resign. I hoped there was more humanity in Dr. Bonsall than that. If he does not hold himself responsible, I hope he will re- sign.—Dr Bonsall: I will not resign.—Mr J. Richards: I do not suppose you will. It is money that makes the mare go. Should we not inform the Local Govern- ment Board that Dr Bonsall has said he will not be responsible for the inmates under his care ?—The Chairman: Perhaps the Clerk will take a note of it.—Mr J. Richards: Why should the Clerk take the responsibility on himself? Let us pass it. I maintain. that it is right to bring that statement to the notice of the Local Government Board.—The Clerk said he understood Dr Bonsall otherwise. What he understood was that Dr. Bonsall would not be responsible for ad- ministering anaestheticsi.—Mr J. Rich- j airds: I hope you are right.—Dr. Bonsall: Thera is no question that Mr Richards i understood me perfectly well.—Mr J. i Richards: I. beg your pardon. That is an insult to me and I call for an apology. Dr Bonsall: You will remember that you are the individual who said I spent too much money on a pauper whose life was not worth it.—Mr J. Richards: I do not know what you spend on anybody. That it3 immaterial to me.—The Chair- man You understand now what Dr Bon- sall has said?—Mr J. Richards I under- stood him to say that he would not be re- sponsible.—The Chairman: That is, for administering anaesthetics. — Mr J. Richards: 1 doubt it.—The discussion then ended. Literature.—-A vote of thanks was passed to Js Potts, Crynfryn Build- ings, for a parcel of literature, and Miss Gilbertson for supplying a newspaper daily. Money in Hand.—On the proposition of the Rev T. A..Penry, it was decided to communicate with an assistant over- seer who was stated to have £10 2s 2d in hand at the end of September and had only paid 5s 9d into tne bank during Sep- tember. Attention was caJled to another collector with money in hand. Half-yearly Expenditure. — The Clerk submitted the estimate of expenditure and contribution orders required for the half year ending next Lady Day. The expenditure was estimated at £5,131. in- cluding: £380 for in-malntenancei, £2,000 out-relief, lunatics, J3440 salaries, JE.550 liabilities, and £700 working bal- ance. After deducting grants and vari- ous receipts, the common charges amounted to £2,961, with £4,217 for county rates, making a total of £7,178. There were balances in favour of various parishes amounting to £861, leaving £6,317 to be raised from calls compared with £6,230:n the corresponding half year, a net increase of £87, of which JE57 applied to Aberystwyth parish. The total cads on Aberystwyth parish amounted to £3,271, including £1,408 for common charges and £1,863 for county rates, but having a balance in hand of £389, the calls required amounted to £ 2,882.—The Assistant Clerk pointed out that the in- crease of £87 was wholly accounted for by the increase in the higher education rate. In corresponding half year the rate was three farthings in the pound, but it was now a penny and made a difference of £105. If it were not for the, higher edu- cation rate, there would be a small de- crease in the calls. For the correspond- ing half year in 1908, the county rates amounted to £3,727 and the common charges £2,034; 1909, county rates, £4,112 and common charges £2,118; and for this half year the county rates were £4,217 and common charges £ 2,100.—Mr J. Richards thought it would be cheaper to revert to the old School Board system.— Mr W. T. Lewis: Or have now county councillors.—The estimate having been adopted, Mr W. Thomas gave notice of motion that he would call attention at the next meeting to the inequality of the representation of Aberystwyth parish ha-Vilng regard to the proportion of con- tributions which amounted to half the contributions from other parishes. He knew that other parishes suffered from inequalities.—Mr E. J. Evans: No speech is allowed .n giving not'ce of motion. We have had quite enough of him already. (Laughter). TOWN COUNCIL (adjourned meeting), Friday evening,, November 5th.— Present: Councillor J T. Davies, mayor; Aldermen Peter Jones, E. P. Wynne, 'Robert Doughton. and Isaac Hopkins; Councillors C. M. Williams, T. J. Samuel, R. J. Jones, Daniel Thomas, John Evans, G. R E. Bonsall, D. C. Roberts G. F. Roberts. H. H. Davie* and Thomas Doughton; and Mr. A. J. Hughes, town clerk. SHAKESPEARE MEMORIAL. Reported receipt of a -com mun i;ea tinn from the Secretary of the Shakespeare Memorial National Theatre asking the Council to arrange for a public meeting to be held in the town.—It was resolved to take no action in the matter. THE SKATING RINK. The petition of the owners and occupiers of houses on the wa?t side of Queen's-road was ag-iin considered by the Council when >t was decided that the matter was one in which the Council should not be called upon to interfere, the remedy, if any, bemg the hands of the petitioners. ISOLATION HOSPITAL. The 1olio wing letter was read from Mr. aughan Davies and referred by the Coun- cil to the Public Works Committee for suraidoratvm and rerort:— 17. Hyde Park Gardens, W., November 4th. 11909. • Dear sir. I am obliged for vour letter confirming what was stated in 'the papers md have to inform you that the scheme 1,11 meet with strenuous opposition. The erection of the proposed hospital would not only be a grave source of danger to the public in general, but would be a serious interference with my private rights. Apart from other questions, I do not see how it would be possible to build a properly isolated hospital with proper sanitary provisions without encroaching on my land. You are no doubt aware that the land right up to the Pier forms part of the Tan-y-bwlch Estate. When the cottage and blacksmith's shop were erected, it may be that proper precautions were not taken to protect the interests of the Estate and that as a matter of strict law the cottage and blacksmith's shop and the ground on which thev stand have become the property of the Council. I am advised, however, that there is no ground for suggesting that the Council have acquired anything beyond the sites of the existing buildings and it would certain'ly be strange if this were so. The buldings were allowed to be put up for the convenience of the Harbour Trustees, when getting stone from my quarry, and one can hardly imagine that it would be contended that any right has been ganied over the adjoining land which was never occupied or enclosed. Under the circum- stances, I am naturally much concerned at your letter confirming the statement to which I called attention and with a view to avoiding any difficulty I would suggest that the Council should let me know exactily what they propose to do.. and supply me with a copy of the plans of the intended buildings. I would only add that I regard the matter as one of very serious importance on both public and private grounds, and should not hesitate, if it became necessary, to assert the rights which I am advised I undoubtedly possess —-Yours faithfully, M VAUGHAN DAVIES. A. J. Hughes, Town Clerk Abcrystwyth. WELSH NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. Receipt of notice of1 meeting of the Council of the Society to be held at Shrews- bury on the 23rd November was reported when the Council having regard to the opinions repeatedly expressed by promin- ent supporters of the Society in favour of the removal cd the Society's show from Aber_ ystwyth resolved that while the Council would be glad to hear that the Society had decided to hold the show for 1910 at Aberystwyth they would not for this year press their claims. ABERYSTWYTH JOINT STATION. The Borough Surveyor having produced the plan showing the proposed diversion of the right of way over the Great Western Company's land near the Smithfield the Council adopted the plan as amended. TOWN COUNCIL, Tuesday, November 9th.—Present: Councillor J. T. Davies, mayor; Aldermen Peter Jonas, E. P. W ynne, Robert Doughton. and Isaac Hopkins; Councillors C. M. Williams, ex-mayor T. J. Samuel Daniel Thomas, G. Fosaett Roberts, Rufus Williams, John Evans, R. J. Jones. D. C. Robert Captain Doughton, Harry Davies, and Dr. Bonsall; Messrs. A. J. Hughes, town clerk; Meyric Hughes, deputy clerk lRees Jones, borough surveyor; Charla3 Massey, borough accountant; James Evans, sanitary inspector; and Captain Lloyd, harbour master. ELECTION OF MAYOR. Alderman Peter Jones, rising to pro- pose the election ot mayor, said he had pleasure in proposing for the office of mayor a gentleman who had previously occupied the position. During that period Alderman Wynne showed great tact and ability and, with his past experience and the manner in which he then discharged his duties the Council could look forward to a very happy year. He thought that Alder- man Wynne wars extremely lucky to follow the present ex-Mayor. He congratulated the ex-Mayor on the able and disinterested manner in which he had filled the import- ant office of mayor. His year of office had passed without a hitch and business had been carried on in a.n expeditious way. He anticipated that the ex-Mayer' suc- cessor would be able to follow the example in that respect. He did not know what they might anticipate for the coming year in the way of important projects but no doubt the question of an improved water supply would have to be consclered by the Council. Thirty years ago when he (Alderman Jones) occupied the honourable position now occupied by Alderman Wynne, the water works were commenced. The period for which the Council then bor- rowed the money to carry out the work had nearly expired, so that the excellent supply of water to the town, which was a most valuable asset at the present time, would be paid for during the present year. Nevertheless, the Council would have to incur further outlay in connection with water -supply. He was also hopeful that during the Mayor's term of office that the building of the National Library of Wales at Aberystwyth would be started. It was a valuable institution in respect of wheh the town had taken upon itself con- siderable financial responsibility, though a wise one; and he hoped that during the Mayor's period of office the beginning of the work of building would be carried into effect. He hardly thought it iecessary, III proposing the election of Alderman Wynne as mayor, to make any further comment, so he proposed Edward Price Wynne as mayor for the year. (Cheers.) Dr. Bonsall sa.id he had much pleasure in seconding the proposal made by Alder- man Jones. He had known Alderman Wynne for many years and had no hesita- tion in saying his appointment to the civic chair would be received with satis- faction by all fellow-townsmen. He was a man of integrity and was straight- forward in all his dealings. (Hear, hear.) In many respects the Council would be fortunate in ha.ving Alderman Wynne for vts president. He was capable of check- ing the superfluous verbosity of members of the Council who were disposed to indulge in jot. (Laughter.) He had pleas.-ire in seconding the proposition and hoped Alder- man and Mrs. Wynne would have a verv pleasant year. (Cheers.) .The proposition having been agreed to wiith cheers, the ex-Mayor and Mayor elect left the Council Chamber when the Mayor was invested with the robe and gold chain of office. On taking the chair which the ex-Mayor had vacated the Mayor was received with cheers. He thanked the Council cordially for the high compliment they had again paid It was with some reluctance that he accepted the office, but as it appeared to be the unanimous, wish of the members he felt it to be his duty to accede to their wishes. He would not trouble the Council with a long speech as time was precious, but he should like to refer to one or two matters which had been touched upon by Alderman Jones Several matters were brought before the Council last year and held in abevance. He hoped that during his term of office the Council would be able to complete some, if not all, of those projects. The extension of the water supply was already partially iu hand. The reservoir at the lake had been enlarged and he supposed that in the near future, seeing that as Alderman Jones had said. the original loan had been paid ofi, the town would have to run further into debt in laying a second line of pipes up to Plynlimon in order to provide an efficient supply of water for the next generation. Another matter of import- ance was the advertising of the town. (Hear, hear.) In the past the Council had been doing that work in driblets; but if the Welsh Coast scheme came into operation and all the towns co-operated they would be able to launch out into a more extensive scheme in attempting t:) make known the charms of Aberystwyth and other health resorts on the Coast and so atti-act more visitors in the early fieason and to extend the season in the autumn. Another matter requiring atten tion was the earlier engagement riAi band and entertainments. Hitherto the Coun- cil had allowed the matter to drift and drift unt 1 all the bast artistes were engaged by other watering-places. It was essential that that matter should be taken in hand at the earliest possible moment. Llandudno and Rhyl had already engaged their entertainers. By going into the mariiet in April and May, as had /utnerto boen the ense at Aberystwyth, nothing but the refuse of other places was left for Aberystwyth to choose from. (Hear, hear.) The Council know how it was served last year. They had made an arrangement by which the town was to receive £80. but at the last moment the offer was withdrawn and the town was in danger of having no sort of entertainment of the knid. A suggest on had been mnde to consolidate the several loans of the town which it was anticipated would result in a reduction of rates. He iMppd that the Town Clerk would be able to bring 1e- foie the Council at an early date further information with reference to 1he> s'igp-es- ( tion he had made and that a ji-seial cora- 1 rnittee would be appointed to carrv tlIP suggestion into effect without the'usaal delay. Another to 1.(' 1 should like to refer conc-rned the taking I anl publication of the weather report^ "f .iop1, "< The Council spent a small sum every year in that way. He had casually for the past fortnight looked over the published weather reports and compared the redings- at Aberystwyth with these of Brighton and Bournemouth which were the leading winter resorts on the South Coast and were thought to get the best of everything in the way of winter climate. He found that the average maximum of Aberystwyth was fifty degrees while at (Brighton the average maximum was fifty-two, and Bournemouth fifty-two. In respect of the average minimum temperature, how- ever, Aberystwyth had a considerable advantage for whereas the average mini- mum at Aberystwyth was forty-two, the average minimum at Brighton was thirty- nine, and at Bournemouth, 39.4 Aber- ystwyth therefore had a much more equable early winter climate than that of the favourite winter resorts of the South Coast, and that fact should be made known. With regard to sunshine record, Aberystwyth's record for some reason or other, was always the lowest on the list. Perhaps the sunshine recorder was not placed where it could record the full amount of sunshine. The total duration of sunshine for October at Aberystwyth was 78 hours only as compared with 87 for Brighton, 105 for Bournemouth, and 119 for Weymouth. With regard to rainfall, the total rainfall °for Aberystwyth for October was 3.ï6 inches, as compared with 8 inches for Brighton and Bournemouth, and 6.38 for Weymouth. In that respect Aberystwyth stood pre-eminently the lowest of any watering place making -records and of in- land places as well. He again thanked the Council for electing him mayor and hoped, with the support of all the mem- bers, that when his second term of office expired they would be able to look back to a peaceable, harmonious and successful year. (Cheers.) Mr. Robert Doughton proposed a vote of thanks to the ex-Mayor for his valuable service to the town during the past year. Mr. Da.vies had done his work to the entire satisfaction of all. (Hear. hear.) At the same t:me he congratulated the ex-Mayor on the pleasant year he had had. (Hear, hear. and laughter). Some people were more lucky than others (More laughter.) Sometimes in orossing the Atlantic people encountered great storms and were some- timer, in peril of their lives. During his mayoralty, Mr. Davies had had smooth water all the way and no untoward inci- dent. It was not often the town had so young a mayor. The ex-Mayor could not boast of the experience of his predecessor, nor of the knowledge of his successor, but, nevertheless, he had done remarkably well. (Cheers.) Mr. Harry Davies seconded the proposi- tion and said he did not think the pleasant year oi' office was a matter more of good luck than management. He thought there was a good deal of good management on the part of the ex-Mayor and begged to offer him the congratulations of the rate- payers on being able to command decorum in the Council during his year of office. It must be a matter of satisfaction to km at the end of his term of office. (Hear, hear.) The proposition having been agreed to., the ex-Mayor thanked the Council for the vote to him 011 retiring from the civic chair ?u native town. He did not take all the credit for the pleasant year just ended, for much of it was due to the members themselves and to the officials. He had tried to maintain the dignity which the position demanded. Though not many projects had been carried through during the year he was pleased to be able to say there had been no lawsuits. (Hear, hear.) He did not know what would be the fate of Irs successor in that respect but he hoped he would be able to follow his example in that respect and steer clear of them. He scarcely felt entitled to the flottci.ng remarks made by Alderman Jones, but he had done his utmost to serve the town. He did not claim to be clever, but he thought that a little bit of common sense went a long way. (Hear, hear.) Hf thanked the officials for the assistance they had given h:m. He had not, he believed, taken up much of the time of the Town Clerk and the Surveyor but he had Fe haps, a little more to do with the Borough Accountant, and possible some of that, time was occupied more by gossip than anything else. (Laughter.) With 'regara to the Xational Library, he was sure the Council and the ratepayers would be glad to hear that half of the £5,000 promised had been provided for in a separate acoofiftt bearing interest for the Corporation and would be pa;d over when the building was commenced. The extension of the water supply was one of the biggest questions before the town at the present time. It was a matter that should have his heartiest support so that it might be effected as eariy as possible. If the Counoil resolved to lay another line of pipes all the way to the lake on Plynlimon it would mean a big undertaking. There was another thing he had been 111 favour of. since 1900 when it was his pleasure to isecond the election of Alderman Wynne as mayor for the first time. That was the extension of the bor- ough. (Hear, hear.) He was thoroughly in favour of the extension of the borough, but it was a large ^question which required a great deal of patience to consider in all ite details. There was no doubt that the ratepayers had lost and were losing annually a large sum of money, both directly and indirectly, bv not going on with that project. He therefore hoped that the Counoil. without further delay would take that matter in hand, and ir they did so he could assure them c.f his hearty support. (Hear, hear.) With regard to summer entertainments, he was very full of them, for he was very fond of all kinds of out- door recreations and entertainments. In the circumstances of last year, he thought the Council had done remarkably well in securing entertainments such as wore secured. It was true they had no eaterta.nments on the Castle Grounds- but when they put all things together he was of opinion that the majority of the ratepayers felt that last summer's enter- tainments were the best the town had had for many years, while saving hundreds of pounds. He hoped the town would be able to enter into a similar arrangement in the coming season and the sooner the Council made the attempt to complete the arrangements the better. If the town only knew what some of the members of the Council knew c.f the summer arrange- ments, he was sure the town would be only rni° repeat what was done last year J lie Council it was true, was blamed right and left for the arrangements, but pubic bodies were open to criticism, and if the members could not stand criticism thev had better stay at home. (Hear, hear and laughter.) A month ago he placed on the agenda a proposition in favour of providing means for embarking and disembarking passengers to and from steamships making trips in the bay. Nothing had yet been done n that direction but he was sure the ouneil agreed with him that it was not a matter that should be indefinitelv oeterrea. Steamship trips were an acquisi- tion to the attractions of Aberystwvth, and it proper means of embarkation were provided not only would the G.W.R. steam ships come into the Bay from the south" but steamships would also oome from the Liverpool side as well, and in that way be the means of adding to the pleasure of a visit to Aberystwyth and of increasing the number of visitors. (Cheers.) b The Mayor announced that he had appointed the ex-Mayor a.s his deputy. r|„ m COMMUNICATIONS. Ihe Town Clerk said he had received an acknowtedgment the Cfounoil's letter respecting the widening of the road into Pla Crug which would be laid before Mr. V\ atkms on his return home The G.W.R. wrote saying they were pleased to hear of the Council's \lec;sion respecting the right of way and suggesting that the terms should be embodied in a short agreement. Mr. R. J Jones asked if anvbodv had seen the plans of the alterations contem- plated nt the Station He was told that in making alteration the companies did not intend touching the frontage of the Station. If that were so. it would be a calamity, for the frontage was now a dis- figurement to the town. If the Council could get the G.W.R. to do something to improve the frontage, he Council should do it. The Mayor thought the frontage was a matter for the Cambrian and not the vT. YY .JlV. Alderman Jones said ho would second Mr. Jones if he proposed thnt the Com- panv should be asked to give the Council a of the plan of-structural alterat-onc This was agreed to, the Mayor remark- ing that membrs of the Council had a talk With Mr Denniss at Barmouth re- woeting the matter who said it was a lucst.on of ways and means. RTCHARDFS V. THE CORPORATION. The Town Clerk said he had had a com- ] nunkation from Messrs Smith, Davies.and Evairw respecting R.chardes v. the Cor- joration which he would ask the Council ;o consider in committee. t APPOINTMENT OF COMMITTEES. All the members of the Council were put on the Finance, Public Works, Gen- eral Purposes, and Markets Committee. Last year's Council members were put on the Library Committee, the ex-Mayor being substituted for Mr Wilkinson. A ballot was taken for the selection of rate- payer members of the Committee which resulted in the substitution of Mr Bal- linger and the Rev R. J. Rees for Mr G. Eyre Evans and Mr N. H Thomas County Schools. The voting was as fol- lows for the eight ratepayer members: The Rev 1. A. renry, 16 Mr Ballinger and Dr J ones Powell (vicar), 15; Mr Robert Ellis and Mr David Samuel 14; "Captain David James, 13; Professor An- wyl, 12; the Rev R. J. Rees, 11 (elected); Mr N. H. Thomas, 9; and Mr Geo Eyre fJvans, 8. The Public Lights Committee were re- elected, substituting the ex-Mayor for Alderman Wynne, Mr Harry Davies for Mr Gibson, and Dr Bonsall for TVIr Wil- kinson. The Footpaths Committee were also re- elected, substituting Cantam Doughton for Mr Wilkinson. Alderman Hopkins, Councillors C. M. Williams, and G. F. Roberts were re- elected Downies Trustees for the year and Mr Daniel Thomas was elected the fourth trustee in the place of Mr Wil- kinson. TOWN CRIER. Mr John Lloyd was re-apoointed town crier the Mayor saying he was glad to see Mr Lloyd returned to duty with im- proved health. SHELTERS. Mr Daniel Thomas prooosed that the Surveyor should be instructed to prepare design of shelters. He remarked that he brought forward the matter in fulfil- ment of a promise he had made to the ratepayers. Some of them had told him that visitors would have staved in the town longer If there were shelters. Mr C M. Williams said the difficulty was to find suitable sites for shelters and Alderman Jones suggested that the ques- tion of location should be referred to the Works Committee. The suggestion was adopted. AN EXPLANATION. Mr Daniel Thomas said that during the elect.on a rumour was current that he had saxl that 15s a week was a sufficient wage for a working man. He had never said anything of the kind, for he con sidered the current wages quite low enough. When discussing the apDolnt- ment of market superintendent, he* had said that 15s was enough with a house and that a good many would be glad to have the place at 15s and a house. The Committee stipulated that the "officer should be under forty years of ao-e and that the wages should be £ 1 and lis that age had been stipulated he voted for the recommendation. He did not know how the thing; had leaked out of the Cbmnrt- tee meeting. Since the election he had also heard it stated that he had wanted to raise the rent of the workmen's houses. (Laughter.) He certainly was on the Committee appointed to fix the rent of houses in Skinner-street and every member of the Committee was anxious to fix the rent as low as possible, so lono- as there was no deficiency between Cthe receipts and expenditure. The Council then went into committee. DISTRICT EDUCATION. COMMITTEE, Monday, November 8th.—Present: Mr D. Morgan James (presiding), Captain T. Doughton, the Rev T. Mason Jones, Mrs T Z; Jones, Mies Kimoster Messrs Vaughan Davids, M.P., D. C. koberts, Robert 11ili William Evans (Ponter- wyd), Edward Evans, R. J. R. Loxdale A. P. Howell, Evan Richards, C M' Williams, R. J. Roberts, clerk, and the attendance officers. Attendance.—The monthly returns showed a general improvement compared with the corresponding month and eight schools were entitled to half holiday.—It was decided to call the attentAm of the Parish Meetings of Broncastellan and Tirmynach to a footbridge which had been washed away and prevented a num- ber of chilidren attending school.—Refer- ence was made to the fact that children removed from one school to the other at Borth, and on the Chairman's suggestion the matter was- referred to the Local Managers.—The Clerk sad it had boon suggested that a small committee should be appointed to consider cases which the attendance officers were bringing before the magistrates. It would greatly facili- tate matters if that was done.—The Rev Mason Jones agreed with the suggestion having regard to the remarks made by a chairman of one petty sessional division who asked the attendance officer whether the cases had been considered by an at- tendance committee. As there was no attendance committee, the omeer was blamed for not doing so.—Mr D. C. Rob- erts This is the attendance committee. The Rev Mason Jones: But we do not de- vote any time to it, and I think it would be well to adopt the Clerk's suggestion. —Mr C. M. Williams said the attendance in the county was not what it ought to be, and appeals were made by the County Authority for improvement.—The follow- ing were appointed to act as an attend- ance committee for the next 3 months:— The Rev Mason Jones, Messrs D. C Rob- erta, C. M. Williams, Edward Evans Wm Evans, and R. J. R. Loxdale. Goginan School.—Writing with refer- ence to the absence from school of Mr A. J. Perce, uncertificated teacher at Gog- inan Council School, the Director of Edu- cation stated, The Headteacher of the school has been ab- sent since October 9th owing to a serious illness, the school being left in charge of Pierce, assisted by a supple- mentary teacher who takes the infants in the class room. On Saturday, October 16th; Pierce came to my office and asked for permission to be away from school for three days as a sister-in-law of his living HI South Wales had died and was to be buried on the following Tuesday. I told him that unless he could find a substitute I d d not see how he could be soared in the absence of the Head Teacher. He had not thought of a substitute and I knew of nobody available at the time. As he was very persistent, I referred him to Mr D. C. Roberts, chairman of the Edu- cation Committee. I understand that Mr Roberts also declined to give him permis- sion and spoke to him to the same effect as I had. However, Pierce went to South Wales and the first intimation I had of the fact was from a local manager on the following Monday, who felt some concern as to how the school was to be carried on in his absence. On Tuesday I went to the school and found it in charge of a, supple- mentary teacher striving as best she could to keep sixty children of all ages in some kind of order. I at once saw the Head- teacher of Penllwyn School and arranged with him that Miss Adams, an uncerti- ficated teacher at his school, should take charge of Goginan School during Pierce's absence. On the following Friday, October 23rd, I wrote to Pierce asking what explantion he had to give. of his absence without leave; but, though I re- minded him on November 2nd that he had not replied, no reply has yet been re- ceived. 1 hope the "District Committee will understand that my object in laying the circumstances of the case before them is not to do Pierce any harm, but to bring home to him, if possible, that the Committee strongly disapprove of conduct of this kind and that he cannot be al- lowed to defy the Authority with impun- ity."—Mr D. C. Roberts also explained the circumstances and said he strongly advised Pierce not to go. The Commit- tee ought to mark their disanoroval of conduct of that kind. One would think that Pierce would have made some sacri- fice under the circumstances, even if it was a nearer relative than a sister-in-law. Teachers ought to show that the Com- mittee could have confidence in them when they were .placed In charge of schools.—The Chairman honed t was an exceptional case.—Mr Ellis" said some con- sideration was due to the Headteacher who was seriously ill and the Committee should not overlook the fact that Pierce had not replied to the letters from the Director of Education. They had experi- ence of Pierce when he refused to oblige the Committee by taking charge of the school at Borth. If they allowed teachers to play fast and loose, where would the Committee be? If it occurred again, Pierce should be served with a_notice to terminate his engagement.—The Rev Mason Jones proposed that the matter should be deferred and that Pierce should be ordered to reply.—Captain Doughton: What answer can he give EVentually, it was agreed on Miss Kim peters proposi*- to summon Plerco to attend the next Uommittee meeting. Appointment.— It was decided to ad- 7 vertise for a school medical officer for a I portJDl1 cf the district in succession to Dr Jamos, Y Fagwyr, whose resignation was accepted by the County Authority. I Price of Coal.—Tenders having been accepted for the supply of coal to the various schools, Captain Doughton said he had read a note in a local paper that coal was cheap In Oswestry and dear in Aberystwyth. It appeared to him from the tenders that the price of coal had now. been reduced. Llangwyryfon.—Mr D. C. Roberts pre- sented the report of a sub-coinuiittee ap- pointed to vis-t Llangwyryfon and con- sider the five schemes prepared by the Architect for improved drainage and water supply a.t the school. He gave a detailed description of the scheme recom- mended for adoption, which included vater by gravitation, the total cost being estimated at £12û. It was a great pity, he added, that the school, which was newly bu/lt, had not been put in a thoroughly satisfactory condition at first. In the Medical Officer's report the school was stated to be unsatisfactory. To put all the schools in a periect state would mean considerable expenditure; but he thought it would come to that and the schools would, have to be provided with proper water supplies and other sanitary arrangements. if the scheme was car- ned out, -Llangwyryfon School would be put in a sanitary condition and would compare lavourably with any other school. One-iourth of the cost would be paid by the county and the district would pro- vide the remaining £90, covered by a loan. A penny rate on the contributing area produced £ 20, so that the annual charge would not be one-fifth of a penny in the pound and even the largest rate- payer would not have to pay more than Is or Is 6d, the pr.ce of a concert ticket. He did not think any ratepayer would grudge the expenditure consider.toa the advantages to the children and the school. He proposed that tile scheme recom- mended by the sub-committee should be carried out.—Mr Vaughan Davies sec- onded the proposition and said he in- spected the school with the budder be- fore it was opened. He anticipated then that there must be great difficulty in re- gard to the drainage and water supply. in his op-nioa there was no possibility or providing a proper water supply and drainage arrangement except by carry- mg out the scheme. Mr Loxdale had kindly sent copies of the different schemes to him and he had no hesitation in saying that the proposed scheme was by tar the be:& and eventually the cheapest. it was absolutely necessary to have proper sa'nitary arrangements for trie health and intellectual advancement of the children.—Replying to the Chair- man, Mr Hoherts. said that, whether the present arrangements could be. made sat- isfactory or not, the sub-committee felt it was an excellent* opportunity to carry out a scheme which would be perfectly satisfactory.—Thti Chairman considered that the present arrangements compared favourably with any rural school in north Cardiganshire.—Mr Vaughan Davies: Then it is a bad thing for Cardi- ganshire.—The Chairman thought the Medical Officer referred in his report to the unsatisrao-tory disposal of the sewage and not to the sanitary arrangements. If it was intended carrying out similar im- provements in other schools, all very well; but they should know where they were going to. Whatever reason there was for carrying out the scheme, the same reason applied to other schools. It was not neceasary to spend so much in providing a water supply, seeing that the inspector of Nuisances pointed out spots the yard where plenty of water could be obtained by sinking a pump at a cost! of £5. The man who built the school was one of the managers and was of opin- ion that the drainage arrangement was perfect.—Mr D. C. Roberts said the Architect's assistant, who had visited the! place on many occasions and heard what Mr Jamos said, assured the aub-commit- tee that there must be a blockage in the down pipes. The scheme covered a I great deal more than the water supply.— Mr Ellis said the school had only been open for six years and the builder was of opinion that there was gqod provision for drainage and water. If the downpipes were blocked, why not clear the block- age? Where were H.M. inspectors in approving the buildings if provision was not made ? The water supply had been d.scussed for years, and he suggested that the schemei should bet ^carried out apart- from the drainage which was a new matter.—The Chairman said the con- tributing area was already heavily bur- dened. The new school cast £1,400. The purchase of Brynherbert School 'cost £215 and the repairs were estimated at £300. Repairs were aUso required jyt Cofadail and each farthing counted. The policy adopted by the County Autho- rity had resulted in huge expenditure.— Mr D. Ü. Roberts: Not heavier than it was before.—Mr Vaughan Davies said he had engaged a professional water diviner and spent hundreds of pounds in sinking holes, but had not yet had water. (Laugh- ter.)—The Chairman said the Sanitary Inspector had been successful as a water dlViner.—Mr Robert Ellis: We will get a witch next. (Daughter.)f—Mr Loxdajh asked what was the use of oaylng an architect if they did not listen to him? The Architect had said there was no certainty of sufficient water by means of pumps, and that the water collected from the roofs would be dirty even for wash- ing purposes. He differed from what the builder said. The closets and out- houses were. to a great extent parallel with the main classroom and that was one of his objections to the present ar- rangements but when windows were open in the summer and buckets over-flowed into the soil effluvia was blown into the school and it was most disgusting and undesirable. The water in the brook was not clean or suitable. He could not see any objection to the proposed scheme. The Chairman said it was a serious charge to &ay that the present arrano-e- ments interfered with the health of Hie children. It meant that inspectors had not done their work and that the school would have to be closed.—Mr Loxdale said no one could say where the smell went to. He made no charge against anybody.—Mr C. M. Williams said" the recommendation could not arroly to all the schools in the county because, un- fortunately, there were comparatively few schools where the scheme could be carried out so cheaply by gravitation. If similar arrangements were carried out through the county It would mean an ex- pendture of £ 15,000 on a fair average; but every case must be considered on Its own merits. It was a great advantage to have the water within 300 yards of the school, and the expense was far below what he anticipated. When tenders were received, the cost might be lower than the estimate.—The Chairman: Or more. —Mr Williams said that generally the estimates were near the mark. The weekly cost of cleaning the sewage would be obviated. The majority of districts had benefited by having one authority to deal with education. In some dis- tricts the School Board rate was 2s 6d; but under one authority the rate for the whole county was tenpence in the pound. In larger places like Aberystwyth, how- ever, the rate had never exceeded 5d. in the pound, and now the ratepayers of Aberystwyth paid something like £1,200 a year beyond its own requirements to help smaller district; but he did not think Aberystwyth complained.—Captain Doughton said there was a great deal of talk about the insanitary condition of schools. Was it possible in this age that people would build schools which required improvements in six yea,rs? Where were the inspectors and sanitary officials? If effluvia was blown into the school, was it sanitary and properly ven- tilated ? The downpipes must also cause dampness and the drainage system was not fit to be called a drainagenjystem. He hoped they were wiser now than un- der the old school boards. He would knock down every blessed school that was insanitary and badly ventilated. The Medi- cal Officer's report showed that many schools in the northern part of the county were unsatisfactory. Was it the time, to object to a paltry sum for the sake of 120 children whose lives were as nreeious as that of anybody If parents did not send children to school the attendance officer?, brought them before the magis- trates, but lftho^o parents had the moans to go further they could upset every plan for sending their children to insanitary schools.—The recommendation was then carried, the Chaiman saying he would have another say when the matter was brought before the County Authority. Feullw\\n.—The recommendation from the Local Managers protesting against the erection of a cesspool on the premises and recommending that pipes should be laid to the river was referred to the IL'1n>=- Architect, Mr Ellis saying that the I pollution of a river could not be allowed. COUNTY COURT. Wednesday, November 10th.—Before his Honour Judge W. Evans. Order.—-Ihe Judge made an order for the payment of os. a month at 13. in the pound on Humphrey Woodcock' Owen, Chalybeate-street, whose total indebted- ness was stated at £45 ISs. 7d. Jones v. Humphreys.—R. J. Jones, Soutli-terrace, sued John Humphreys, Queen's-road. for the recovery of £8 6s. 6d., balance of rent or a house in Northgate- street.—Defendant having said that the landlord had to pay the rates, Mr. Jones replied that the rent of the house was £25, the tenant to pay the rate. He had agreed to take the rent weekly at 9s. 6d. The defendant had been sued for the rates and an order made on him to pay and it was only recently that he heard it suggested that the landlord was to pay the rates.— The Judge made an order for the payment of 5s. a month. Re John Jenkins, Ruel Isaf.—Mr. A J. Hughes appeared on behalf of the Official Receiver (Mr. H. W. Thomas) in respect of a motion to set aside a isale of hay alleged to have been made by the bankrupt to Mrs Ashley, Abercero and for the payment over to the estate of the proceeds. Mr. Hughes said that certain statements were made in the course; of the bankruptcy pro- ceedings and it was upon information which it was believed to be in the posses- sion of the Official Receiver, that the pro- ceedings were instituted. The result of negot at:ons and further enquiries was that the Official Receiver was satisfied that the caM would be best dealt with by having a settlement drawn up by both sides. If there was any suggestion made during the proceedings as to Mrs. Ashley's bona. fides, he was anxious to withdraw the sugges- tion. As far a^ Mrs Ashley was concerned he was assured of her bona fides. Mv. Bosanquet, instructed by Mr. W. P. Owen, that as long as the suggestion re- mained open it was difficult to arrive at a settlement. The suggestion having been withdrawn, the parties had been able to arrive at terms.—His Honour sanctioned the wbich were not stated in Court. PETIT SESSIONS, Wednesday, November vi Before E. P. Wynne, mayor, pre- sunng; J. T. Davies, ex-mavor; Edward Evans, C. M. Williams, John Watkins, Esiqrs., and Captain Doughton. New Magistrates.—-Robert Doughton, George Wilkinson, and Edwin Morris Esqrs., were sworn in as new magistrates tor the borough. No Notice.—Captain Doughton asked why it was that all the magistrates had not received notice of the special sessions? He was one of the licensing justices and it was by accident he heard the previous irglit of the sessions. Mr C. M Williams and Mr. Edward Evans, however, had received notices—The Clerk (Mr Hugh Hughes): alraid it is an oversight on mv part. Captain Doughton: It is a great pity rl- ii" overGIght should occur on occasions ne I hope it will not occur again. AH the magistrates should receive notice of a licensing meeting.—The Mavor: Some times notices have gone astray as mine have gone astray.—Captain Doughton: I am certain that no notice was sent to my .rSeil7 Ther 9lerk That fro.—Captain Doughton: I hope it will not occur again. It causes unpleasantness. The Skating Rink—Mr. Mevric Hughes applied or behar of Mr. J T. Perks man- aging director, irr a renewal of the'mus c and dancing licence for the Skating Rink, the licence AY a. granted for the past year until eleven .> clock at night, but since complaints were made by people living in the neighbourhood that the licence was'not required until that time throughout the week, Mr. Perks was now willing to meet their wishes by having the licence renewed until ten o click on week nights, except until eleven en Wednesday night when it wars half holiday.—The Chief Constable informed the Bench that serious complaints were received by the police, as well as bv the Town Council.—Air. Meyric Hughes objected to that statement unless there was evidence.—The Chief Constable said if necessary evidence would be given. People who kept lodging houses in the vcinity complained that they had lost visitors during the summer and visitors said they would not return next summer A the licence was renewed on the same terms Ihey complained that the band played from morning till night, and the noise of the skating also caused annoyance. Thoe residents claimed they were entitled to consideration and asked for a redress of their grievance. He did net know whether Mr. Hughes was prepared to meet the wishes of those who complained.. —Mr Hughes replied that the band did not play from morning till night. He handed m a statement signed by a number of residents in the locality stating they had no cause for complaint and that the Rink was an improvement to the premises and an attract on to visttoris. There were two sides to every question.—The Clerk read a letter from Mrs. Fear and others complaining of the annoyance caused to them.—Replying to Captain Doughton, Mr Hughes said a piano would not be sufficient as :.ts noise would be drowned bv the skat- ing. He was prepared "to meet the wishes of those who com- plained by having the licence until ten o.clock, except on Wednesday 111ight.-Replying to the Bench. Mr Perks said the band consisted of two cornets and a piano. In other rinks a brass band was employed Instead of an orchestra.—When discussing the position of the band, the ex-Mayor said that Salem Chapel would have cause for complaint if the band was removed to their side. He suggested that tiie Bench should visit the Rink.—Captain Doughton said he was not against skating as an amusement, but thought the music should be reduced as he could hear the nc'.ise in Queen's-road.—The Bench eveniu- ally granted the application for the next twelve months with the hope that the noise would me minimised as much as possible. Mr. Meyric Hughes also applied for a mucici and dancing licence for the Market Hall which was granted. Electric Lighting.—An crder for pay- ment was made against Goldberg Brothers London, who were charged with the non- payment of £6 19s, electricity rate A similar charge against Howard Daniel, auctioneer Towyn, was adjourned, Mr. John Evans, solicitor for the defence saying that Mr. Daniiel was neither owner nor occupier of the premises in Northgate-street for the past two years.