The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

4-HENLLAN. The annual cvmanfa pwnc at. Aberbank School was successful as usual. Though a large number of the young men who took a promin- ent part in this cvmanfa are serving their country it went off weJ. The Church Sunday Schools of Llangunilo, Llanfair, Bangor, Hen- llan, and Llandvfriog took part. The catechists were the Revs. E. 0: Jones, M.A., Llaogunllo; W. J. Evans, B.A., Llanfair; and E. J. Davies, B.A., Bangor Teify. The organist was Master Emrys Davies, School House, Aberbank. In the afternoon the schools partook of tea which was followed by entertainments.

The Two Ditches. j r (By the Roadman.) It was a cold, stormy, dark night. Walk. I ing along a portion of my section of road 1 came to a rather dangerous turning and I was attracted by sounds in the ditch, It. was evi- dent that. some vehicle had come to grief and that the occupants were endeavouring to right the overturned conveyance. It was not the Iii-st accident, by any means which had happened at that particular spot. A pocket flash ianip re- vealed the sign boldly painted on the vehicle, and it read-" Cardiganshire Agriculturai Executive Committee." » The occupants had not been indulging :n a joy-ride. Were such the case their close acquaintanceship with the ditch would have been excusable, but they were engaged on business—sbern business—,11 response to b. loud call of millions of hungry stomachs in tile land. They had sent out well-paid scouts to scour the country and arrange for fodder for the clamouring masses. Alas, when these re- turned, there was still a considerable shortage. These scouts, who had leisurely surveyed LJ. land, were not consulted regarding the filling- up of the blank square. What method did they adopt to make up the deficiency, Allah only knows; but the cart found its way into the ditch. :Sceniillg danger, meetings were called, and Squires Spuds and Farmers Hayseed gathered together as they did in the days of old Row- lands of Llangeitlio (but the gospel preached was different). However, after kicking their I-ecis for hours outside the fatal chamber, and their numbers called, it was poor consolation they had. Evidence had to be as brief as 'doctor' bills (length and not weight) and no mtercv was promised. The naxt scene was laid at the several homes of the victims. Postmen were busy one morn- ing collecting signatures for registered letters bearing on the outside cover the magic words, ""Cardiganshire Agricult,tiral Executive Com- mittee." Feverish hands tore open the envel- ope to find inside a form with questions the c~ —12a answering of which might certainly ,clify the candidate for the D.Sc. or perhaps on the score of patience one might suggest the 'D.D. After all the labour (arduous no doubt) of the 14/6 a day officials, lo and behold, pre- 'C)c ly the same kind of information was wanted wgain, with the exception—strange enough That it mattered little who supplied the inform- atV-n, for no provision was made for the vic- "t.ir"s to append either their names or their -1-1-"sses. Not even a number! Tnis omission, be it intentional or uninten- tional. was rather convenient for the sen of w as th" ,:j whose mathematics was not up to =fcc:'a for his identity could not be discovered. A qu stion which knocked spots out of many -was "altitude of the highest point on the farm." One, however, it is stated, made a b, 1 bid for honours by stating that the "V c-r vane on the roof of the barn was the li't '• • ;t point on his farm!

London City & Midland Bank. SUCCESSFUL YEAR. Sir Edward H. Holden, Bart., presided at the annual general meeting of the shareholders of the London City and Midland Bank held on Tuesday. Referring to some leading items in their balance sheet, he said that bankers were severely criticised because it was alleged that they did not afford the same assistance to our industries as the Germans do to theirs, and consequently their traders had greater advantages than our f iders. It was the duty of bankers seriously consider this position as affecting the future, If assistance were required for the establishment of new industries, or greater assistance after the war for industries already established, it 'Ought, in his opinion-, to be seriously considered. H 't the question arises by what means should s be done ? German banks worked with large id-up capitals and large reserve funds. If Ùe extension of our industries were to be carried out with the assistance of bankers in the same way as in Germany, it would be necessary to increase the capitals of the banks, as it could not be done by Lsing depositors' money which was repayable on demand. He then referred to the purchase of the shares of the Belfast Bank, raising the capital of the London City and Midland Bank to E5,188,840 and increasing the reserve fund from £ 4.000.000 to £ 4.342,826. Prices had risen to such heights that large profits were being made and were being accumulated in the banks until the war Tvas at an end when they would be required to re-stock concerns, to purchase new machinery, and to i)-iild new factories. Our foreign trade situation had also changed, lie total imports into this country since the beginning of the war were larger than the exports by 1.300 milli-n • sterling, and he indicated -he effect of this development on our exchanges with seve-.il •countries. He would caution friends in this country that just as prices had risen in conse- quence of the depreciation in exchange, the greatly-increased charges for freight, insurance, and commission, an increased amount of mon'v and credit, the increased cost of production, «nd the lack of competition of between belHw- •ent countries and neutrals, so the moment neg.>- tiations for peace assumed definite shape we ought to see an improvement in the exchanges '-(wIth the possible exception of America), a re- duction in insurance charges, a gradual reduc- tion in freight charges due to the increase in shipping and the transfer of ships from naval and military work to the carriage of com- modities, a decrease in the amount of credit and money in circulation, and a decrease in the cost of production. The tendency would Currency Notes and Gold Danger. Ono important point was currency notes. When credit was re-established between the •consumer and the shopkeeper, the shopkeeper and the merchant, the merchant and the manu- facturer, and the manufacturer and the seller of raw material, currency notes would gradu- ally find their way into the banks and, as the reserves of the banks would thereby be largely increased, they would be placed to the credit of the banks, in the Bank of England and tJ the debit of the Government. If they went into the reserve of the Bank of England the effect would be to cheapen money to such pn extent as to place our gold in jeopardy. Finally, Sir Edward commented on other item, in the balance sheet, emphasizing that the cash in hand included C7,000,000 in gold coin and that the total cash balance had been purposely kept rather lower this year than last year. He moved the adoption of the report, which was unanimously carried. A full pamphlet of the speech may be obtained from the branch.

BOW STREET. On Thursday of last week the funeral of Idiss Ann Jones, Penrhiw, a former school- -teacher, took place. The remains were brought from Carmarthen to their last resting place at Penygarn Cemetery and the Revs. R. J. Row and R. H. Jones, Llandre, officiated. 'the Jnourners were Mr. Evan R. Jones, Dalston, ^London, and Mr. Griffith Jones, Coventry, brothers; Mr. and Mrs. B. Jones, Salem, Mr. -and Mrs. J. E. Jones, Doleu, and Miss Nellie Jones, Penrhiw, sisters; Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Rees, Pontycymmea-, and Mr. Evan Rees, Pen- rhiw, uncles; Mrs. John Rees, Arfon, aunt; and Mrs. Meyler and the Rev. R. J. RtJeS, cousins.

LLANGRANOG. On Thursday night the body of Benjamin Davies, Brynysgawen, Llangranog, was found hanging from a tree) in a wood close by Lletty- Irbew, where deceased's sister-in-law lived. He -Was about seventy-one years of age and had been depressed for some time. He was un- married, and a carpenter by trade, living with bis sister. He went from home earlier than usual on the morning and made towards Illettyrliew, where he stayed about half-an- hour. That was the last time he was seen alive. His sister noticing that he was later than usual in returning, went to search for him, and later a search party, when Mr. Rees Jones, Pwllheli, found him hanging from a tree. T' body was cut down, and P.C. Lloyd, Bryn- hoffnant, was sent for. Dr. Jenkins, Henllan, held an inquest, the foreman of the jury being -Mr. James Thomas, Eisteddfa, and a verdict -Of suicide by hanging was returned. i

AberystwyUi iiisrat Council LLANBADARN WATER SUPPLY. THE CONi I-; ilENCE. Aberystwyth Rural Council met on Monday, Air. Dauiel Jenkins presiding. The Cierk (Mr. Hugh Hugnes) suggested that a committee should be depated to meet Aberyst- wyth town Council relative to their claims of J.)1 15s. 2d. tor water supplied 110111 the Cor- poration mams to Llanbudarn and was-, asked cu arrange liie matter. The Secretary of the British Farmers Red Cross society Miuiikcd the Council for the eilorts made on behalf of the funds which now amounted to about. £ 760,000. Over 1,200 sales had been neld. He .mpr iswl on '.he Council Llie 'I urgent need of supporting the Society's good work. Mr. J. Buue Morgui said the Society was deserving of every .upport on acoou it of its excellent work.—As a sale had been held re- cently in Aberystwyth district, it was decided to va ;e no steps at present. I The surveyors' reports were read and consid- eied. Mr. David Davies, surveyor, said it was most diflielllt3, to procure stone Immediately he scented a quarry the County Council came in and snapped it up. (Laughter).—The Chair- man thought the Council's surveyors were rather slack as compared with the County Surveyor.— Mr. David James, Penrhyncoch, maintained that stone should be put on the roads day by I day, as timber motors cut them up terribly.— 1he surveyors were instructed to move at once to secure stone for the roads; several quarries being mentioned. In reference to the complaint of Miss Jones, Tancwarrel, Devil's Bridge, respecting the flooding of her house owing to the re-instruc- tion of the bridge by the Council, Mr. T. Jones said he and Mr. Oliver Jones visited the spot and could not admit the Council's responsibility. There was a large heap of stone between the stream and the house which might conduce to dampness. The channels were properly laid, but the water at the back of the house was too I dead to clear itself. The owner was asked if she would sell the stone, which would tend to benefit her and the Council, but a gruff re- fusal was given. (Laughter).—The Chairman asked if the diversion of the water was due to the erection of the bridge?—Mr. D. Davies, sur- veyor, replied in the negative. Formerly the water was allowed to cross the road. Now it was carried by proper pipes much lower than the road surface. The owner declined to allow ¡ him to examine the source of complaint at the back of the house. She told him to go to a Certain hot climate. (Laughter). The owner was at fault for the dampness of the house. He was satisfied that it was the water from the back that caused the flooding and not that from the direction of the bridge. People were most queer to deal with and he was afraid to pass. (Laughter).—In reply to Mr. T. Jones, the Surveyor said the pipes at the front were quite capable of taking all the storm water if the stones were removed. The stones were on public land.—The Clerk was directed to write the owner disclaiming liability and requesting her to take prompt steps to remove the stone, add- ing that the Council were prepared to pay a fair price for them. The salary and allowances of Mr. James Hughes, executive officer for the Food Com- mittee, were fixed at the maximum sum allowed for rural districts. The Inspector (Mr. James Hughes) reported that Cnwch Coch water supply had been made efficient. Attention was needed to Penybont, Borth, water supply. The owner of the cottage at Cefnllwyd, which had been reported as unfit for -habitation, had agreed to do the necessary repairs. Nothing had been done to remedy the complaint of lack of water at Loveden Cot- tages.—Dr. James notified a case of scarletina at Goitre, Taliesin, and a case of measles at Tre'rddol, both of which were dealt with. Orders had been given to improve many cot- ai tges.—The Inspector explained the defect at Penybont and was given authority to proceed.— The Clerk was directed to serve notice on the owners of Loveden Cottages. The Chairman reported on the housing confer- ence at Lampeter and regretted that by some misunderstanding Mr. David James failed to attend. Mr. Lleufer Thomas and others addressed the meeting on a co-operative scheme; but briefly put, the delegates felt that such a scheme, by its nature was more applicable to urban than rural areas. The speakers seemed to be obsessed with the idea of forming model villages in each district with post office, read- ing rooms, and such conveniences, while those who dwelt in rural districts knew that what was wanted was a number of scattered cottages, not more than two together with sufficient land attached for a cow or two. Mr. J. H. Davies put that view strongly.—Mr. David James: Sensible man. (Laughter).—The Chairman added that there would be abundant opportunities lat r of discussing every aspect of the matter, and he anticipated some warm discussion. One thing, however, he was pleased to be able to report and that Aberystwyth Rural District Council and their efficient Clerk came in for a good deal of favourable notice for the perfect- tion of the scheme they put forward. Some of the councils had done nothing. They simply reported that no houses were needed when everyone knew that the districts were suffering from a great dearth of healthy houses. It was made absolutely clear that the councils who refused to formulate schemes would not share in the Government grant which was expected to amount to the difference in cost of building when it was undertaken and the price obtaining before the war. It was also recommended that the various medical officers should consult to- gether with a view of finding some common basis or standard of fitness in workmen's houses. At present each officer had his own idea, with the result that the standard varied consider- ably.—On the proposition of Mr. E. J. Evans, a vote of thanks was accorded the Chairman for his instructive report.—Mr. David James said the idea of the officials for model villages was quite beside the mark in a county like Cardi- gan. What the workmen must have was decent houses and sufficient land to make them com- paratively independent. The status of workmen must be much improved after the war. That wa.s quite clear. Mr. Isaac, surveyor for the northern district, applied for a further war bonus and, in reply to the Chairman, said he now received 28s. weekly.—Mr. J. Bunce Morgan proposed an addition of 7s. weekly, bringing the figure to 35s. and said the figure now paid was unreason- able.—Mr. Isaac was a man in the prime of life and could easily earn much more money in other directions. He had given full satisfaction in the manner in which he served the Council. Ploughmen now received 30s., plus Is. 6d. per acre bonus, and were still agitating for more, while the Surveyor had to be much from home and was subject to out-of-pocket expenses.—Mr. E. J. Evans seconded the vote of 35s., which was supported by Mr. John Roberts and carried, unanimously.—The question of increase tn Messrs. David Dnvies and Morgan Edwards was to be placed on the agenda for' the next meet- ing, any increase to be made retrospective. A petition from the roadmen, signed by twenty-six out oT a total of thirty-three, was read asking for an increase of wages on account of advancing prices. The pre-war wage was 19s. In July a war bonus of 5s. was granted, and tliev now asked for 30s.-After discussion it was decided, on the proposition of Mr. R. L. Thomas, seconded by Mr. David James, to offer 27s.-Mr. David Davies, surveyor, and Mr. Morgan Edwards said they experienced consider- able difficulty in retaining their men and getting new workmen, as they easily obtained 30s. and over elsewhere. In timber they were paid high wages.—Mr. David Jones said on the face of it the wages paid at the mines were higher: but if time was lost through bad weather, etc., they were not paid, while the roadmen had no deductions to face. That was a considerations which should not be lost sight 01. The deputation from Trefeirig Parish Council was received relative to the construction of a road which would be a great boon to the vil- lage. After inspecting plans, etc., and discus- sion, the Chairman and Mr. R. L. Thomas were deputed to see Messrs. Edwards, the objecting party, relative to a friendly settlement. The Clerk' was also instructed to write Messrs. Edwards pointing, out the Council's powers if friendly negociations were not successful. The Council remitted about B6. special rate at Taliesin, due from persons unable to pay.

PERSONAL. Sir Ellis Griffith, K.C., has consented to be chairman of the St. David's Day celebration in London. It is honed that Mr. Lloyd George will be able to attend, and the committee is also inviting General Smuts as one of the prin- cipal speakers.

U.C.W. Lectures. FREEDOM OF OPINION. On Thursday evening Professor Watson (Ta,' his second lecture on Freeúom," dealing with the phase "Freedom of Opinion." In addition to the meanings which might be given to the word "Freedom," given in the first lecture, was the meaning attached to making a man freeman of a guiid. When a youth had during apprenticeship learnt his trade under direction and control and had acquired skill and efficiency in doing his work be was said to be free of the guild and became a master. He had to satisfy conditions and prepare some special and elaborate piec of work which was called his masterpiece. Having thus shown his quality he was free of the- guild. The ppint was this: that freedom, on the whole, was rather the outcome of efforts in which there had been struggle than a starting point of doing something. In the previous lecture he spoke of freedom as being the absence of control. I That, however, was not a satisfactory definition, because there were many cases in which one could only get freedom by being under control. If he was seriously ill it would be better, in- s stead of vapouring about freedom, to put him- self under the control of a doctor. Both free- dom and restraint, then,, were necessary in the ebb and flow of humaIi life. He also insisted I that freedom had some sort cf relation to happiness and quoted Aristotle's definition of freedom as being the exercise of a man's active powers .along the lines of excellence, affording full scope for their development. 'Fult scope for their development was the atmosphere of freedom and the exercise along the lines of ex- cellence was happiness. To put it in the shortest fojm, it might be said that the development of personality was the highest freedom because the highest personality included self-knowledge, self-mastery, and self control. So if they wanted to judge the whole history of progress they should get the standard that progress was growing consciousness in the person and in the race of spiritual freedom; in other words, higher, richer, fuller personality. Freedom was always related to the idea of discipline, either in the individual or in the nation. Exrternal obedience was always the price to be paid for internal liberty. Obedience should be thorough and complete in the cliitd until its growing reason enabled 1- to judge for itself. So in the last analysis freedom was the growth of self control which led to the liberation of energy able to be controlled by all laws, whether moral or natural. Then he came to freedom to think and to express one's own opinion. That was first found expressly stated by Socrates. He taught by means of discussion which arrived at no definite result, but showed men with whom he discussed that received opintoft was not always as satisfactory as it seemed to be and that it was difficult" to get at the truth. He brought all popular beliefs to the test of reason. Authority and majorities might both be wrong; judge therefore by reason. Socrates claimed absolute freedom of opinion, and of course got into trouble. In 403 he was brought up for trial, if you please, by democracy. He told his judges" If you propose to acquit me on condition that I gave up my search for truth, I should say I I thank you, 0 Athenians, but I will obey God rather than you;' but I will never cease from my occupation of philosophy or to urge the public value of free discussion." He persistently tested opinions and tried to show that people were ignorant of what they supposed t-hev reallv knew. He saw the great dfnger there waft 'n! people being rfitisfied with views they found current and adapting them as their own. As Bacon said, people were so apt to get absorbed m their own ignorances that they could not see anything outside them. It was as if people retired into little caves of their own where they hugged their idiosyncracies and prejudices and then issued forth to give them as their opinions. The Socratic principle was to sift all prejudices and get rid of them at any price. Anything peculiar to an in- dividual was likely to be outside the human current. Let them get on to the high road of human thought; get out of those caves of their own and into the full sunlight of thought and reason. The first thing was negative—to get rid of all they prided themselves in as being peculiar to themselves. Socrates tried to un- settle people's stupid, shallow, unthought-out opinions. The condemnation of Socrates by democracy ought to make people cautious of the virtues of democracy, uncontrolled by reason, for democracy could be more tyrannical than aristocracy or oligarchy, because of the mass behind it. To the free criticism of Socrates Greece owed many of its great thinkers. There was a struggle and discipline of mind which showed itself physically and mentally. It was the outcome of the exercise I of a man's active powers along the lines of ex- cellence. At that point, proceeded Professor Watson, he desired to say a word which seemed to be far from his subject. In the matter of education it was thought by some people that freedom would be obtained if they threw over the classics. Classical education recognised the enormous power of freedom of thought and I freedom of discussion; and so, with enthusiasts, it had always been united to philosophical en- quiry and political freedom. In the greatest internal contest England ever had for freedom between the monarchy and parliamentarians the parliamentary leaders were all classically trained. What did Cromwell say about free- dom of thought? In writing to one of his colonels he advised, in choosing men to serve the State, that no notice should be taken of their opinions if the men were willing to serve the State. The spirit of reform was the spirit of the ancient classical philosophers, the spirit of Socrates come back to life again. Chris- tianity in the Middle Ages was always up and down'on that question, not knowing whether to make for absolutism or freedom. It was a great and long task to show how the world of thought became uniforml during the Middle A-es D in church and state and in the social system. Politically those forces obtained enor- mous and ingrained power so that they survived until the French Revolution; but if they traced the men who opposed that uniformity that control of thought, that worship of authority laying down the law of what was true and un- true they would find that they were clasically- trained men. Professor Watson concluded by reviewing the attitude to freedom of thought of Luther, Calvin, Erasmus, and Servetus, of Sir Thomas More in his" Utopia," and of the Pilgrim Fathers who left England for America for the sake of freedom of thought while Cromwell remained at home to withstand the enemies of freedom; The review seemed to show that the Reformers and Parliament- arians had themselves limited views of free- dom of thought, in others, for Luther opposed Erasmus, Calvin, condemned Servetus, and Cromwell turned Jeremy Taylor out of his rectory to learn in South Wales that sweet are the uses of adversity.

DOLGELLEY. The members of Britlidir and Bryncoedifor Women's Institute* began their second year's work on Friday week. Mrs. Pughe, Helygog, presided. After ensiling the members Mr R. Y'aughan. Garthruaelan, gave an interesting address en goat-keeping, which was much appre- ciated. A cordial vote of thanks to Mr. Vaughan for cocniig to address the meeting was proposed by Mm. Norman Davies, and seconded by Mrs. Jones-Griffith. Miss Buckley Williams of ihe King Edward Memorial, also spoke. Mra Wihiams, Dolgwartheg, and MIs" Williams, Penyfron, won prizes for the best pair of knitted socks.

(continued from previous column). ous and happy new year of office. No doubt there were problems to be solved before friendly societies; but he believed the M.U., with its numerous lodges and the good spirit that per- vaded them would face those problems with calmness and with a determination to do their best to uplift the nation and relieve suffering humanity. (Applause). Bro. Isaac Jones, Abergrynolwyn, having sung an englyn to the P.P.G.M., the delegates re- sumed their deliberations.

) Aberystwyth District Agriculturai Committee. ARTFUL DODGERS. DIRTY FARMHOUSES. AbarystWj th Distnc. Ag^cuituiai Committer met- on Monday, pit&ent, Jlr. J. Bunco Mor- gan, presiding, Mr Hughes Davies, istrao teiloi j. G. Stephens, it. L. Thomas, Damei Jenkins, E. J. Evans, R. Lewis, D. J. Morgan, and E. Lt. Davies, ciorit., The Committee considered several appeals against ploughing orders and made recom- inendatioins to the County Executive.—Mr. D. J. Morgan xplained the arrangements and prices charge for the service of men and horses for ploughing. Those ploughing eight acres or more are io a par of horses, the ploughman to obtain he local rate of wages less 16s. for food when living in. For breaking up grass land for small holders the charge would be AA the ra-e of 20s. to 30s. pei acre, according i-y the nature cf the soil; har-j rowing 3s. 6d., 4s. and 4s. 6d. per acre: drill- ing 2s.; and rolling, Is. with one korse and Is. 6d. two horses.—Mr. D. J. Morgan ex- plained the steps fak*>,a in Tregaron Union for getting farmers with teams iio assist their poorer neighbours. A list of both classes was compiled and arrangements made for each farmer to assist as much as possible his imme- diate neighbours. Where moral suasion failed steps woui.d be taken- to bring compulsory powers into operation; but so far the scheme had worked very well.—Mr. Daniel Jenkins said many things were possible in Tregaron.! Union which would be most difficult in Aber- ystwyt-h Un:on, where the Tribunal had comhe/i cut labour much more thoroughly than at I Tregaron. At a recent farm sale near* A bar- ay ron he saw as many a-s a thousand potential soldiers Slaving a day out. That was not the case in Aberystwyth Union, where labour was very scarce. Mr. R. L. Thomas suggested holding! a series of pub ic meetings in the villages to explain the arrangements to help people who needed help and to convince those who were reluctant to do their share that, pressure would be ameos t^ey compiled.—16 was uecided J noiu iiie^tm^o a- i^ianiiar, Llancyn: iul.ii, ial,L)onc, and xiiiydypennau, and me ciuiK. vsuo uiibct^a -o couiuiunicate with the [ various Chairmen ot Parish Councils. The oiia-ruiaji said some holders oi land on tile uoge.citlan Es.tat.e who were relinquishing their holdings on the iiis- March were taking j no stieps to carry out the ploughing orders. It tne land was in the possession ot Gogerddan. Estate the work would be done; but when the tenancy of the present tenants expired it would be too latp-The attention of the Cultivation Officers was called to the matter.—Mr. D. J. Morgan said it transpired at a recent meeting that some farmers ploughed up land that was quit." useless from the food production point of view while they let good land remain under grass. They complied with the letter of the orders, but violated its spirit, which was to produce the utmost quantity of food for man and beast. The Cultivation Officers should watch those gentry very carefuliy and compel: them to put seed into the ground. It was doubtful if they now intended to seed the soil. -Mr. Daniel Jenkins said such people deserved no mercy. Powers should be given the Culti- vation Officers to Bring such people to justice. Sons of other parents were bleeding on the various battle fronts in order to make secure: the lives and homes cf these dodgers. Wherevei a clear case was made out nIo mercy should be shown.—The Chairman said the fault lay with the Committee, who should have specified what land should be ploughed. The Committee, however, did not anticipate that sort of dodg- ing.-—Mr. E. J. Evans said several men and girls had left farm houses owing to the dirty condition of the houses. He thought the atten- tion of the Inspector of Nuisances should be drawn to some of these dens.—The Chairman said the sanitary condition of some farms was undoubtedly very bad. A man who left one of them owing to the dirt said he could only eat an egg or a potato. (Laughter.) Messrs. R. Lewis, Llanilar, and R.. L. Thomas were nominated for membership on the Advisory Live Stock Committee.

MACHYNLLETH. Machynlleth Guardians met on Wednesday, Mr. Meyrick Roberts presiding. With regard to reconstruction of the poor law system it was agreed to join the Poor Law Unions Associa- tion for a year. Major David Davies wrote stating that the report pf the Sub-Committee on reconstruction after ijie war would be pub- lished shortly and a copy sent to the Guard- ians. It was reported that there was a balance of 2509 county rate due to Merioneth County Council and £534. to Montgomery County Council. A miscellaneous meeting was held by the B.W.T.A. on Wednesday. Mrs. Davies, Royal House, presided. Misses J. Lois Jones, Esther James, Ceridwen Jones, Myra Lewis, Esther Richards, Llywefa Humphreys, Jennie Oliver, Muriel Lewis, and Nellie Hughes gave the pro- gramme. The accompanist was Miss J. Ellis Morgan. A whist drive was held at the Red Cross Hospital on Thursday. The organisers were Sister Graham and Nurse Hammond. Sergeant Bradley acted as M.C. The prize-winners were Sister Griffiths, Nurse Laura Jones, and Privates Flint and Turner. Miss Olive Banks and Lance-corporal H. Levaillant won the con- solation prices. During the evening songs were sung by Miss Olive Banks, Mr. Edgar Williams, and Private Gabriel and Private Murphy re- cited. During the past two months the Calvinistic Methodists have been endeavouring to "clear off a debt on the chapel building; and, largely owing to the whole-hearted efforts of the Sec- retary (Mr .H. Meredith Roberts), and the Treasurer (Mr. John Parry), that object has ben achieved. On Tuesday evening the Rev. D. Cunllo Davies, pastor, presided over a large congregation to celebrate the occasion. Addresses were given by the Pastor, Mr. H. Davies, chemist; Mr. E. B. Morgan,' and Mr. T. Powell, deacons; Mr. R. Roberts, and Mr. Hugh Davies contributed verses, and Miss Elsie M. Lewis, Messrs. T. Powell and Foulkes Roberts sang. Lance-corporal T. Morgan (late of the G.P.O.), Corporal L. P. Lewis, Private Cecil Gribble, only son of Mr. and Mrs. Gribble, Plas Gardens, are home on leave. The Wesleyan Church has sustained a great loss in the departure of Mrs. EvanS and Miss Evans, Bristol House, who are taking up their abode at Beaumaris. Mrs. Evans is one of the oldest members. On Sunday evening Mr. W. Lewis, Mr. Hugh Pugh, and- Mr. Rhys Lewis, deacons, spoke on behalf of the church, deeply regretting their departure. Machynlleth Rural Council met on Wednes- day. present Mr. Edward Hushes presiding. The able-bodied employees of the Council asked for an increase in wages as the County Coun- cil's roadmen received 25s. weekly and they only 23s. It was decided to grant an increase of 2s. weekly.—With regard to the pig yard of Mr. Evan Jones, Cemmaes, which has been re- ported several times to be in an unfit state, it was decided, on a division, to take proceed- ings.—It was decided to write to Jonathan Williams, Llanbrynmair, seventy, who was alleged to have dropped stones into a well whence the village got its water supply.—The Council thought that no houses were needed in the district after the war.—The Clerk reported that he had sent a list of reading rooms and institutes in the Council's district, at the re- quest of the Secretary of the Committee on Rural I life in North Wales. Mr. Edward Hughes presided at a meeting of the Machynlleth Rural Food Committee on Wednesday. Mr. Tomlins wrote accepting the post of grading officer. On the proposition of the Chairman, seconded by Mr. Francis, it was decided to write to the Commissioners respecting special allowances of sugar for preachers and for men engaged in threshing. The Director of the Flour Department wrote with regard to registering farmers who produce their flour, etc. It was stated that Mr. Tom- lins would attend at Machynlleth eveiv Wed- nesday and all farmers could submit samples of grain to him.

LLANDYSSUL. The Manager of the N.P. Bank as trea- surer of the Soldiers and Sailors Reception Committee, has received £ 27 17s. 4s. from the Easter Eisteddfodau Committee.

1 Burn's Anniversary. CELESTA HON AT AEE:;Y3 > *mK. There was a great ouster of the claiis at .-M-StioJ; f Hv1<3 5 Tea Rooms on the ~r**ation of Burn's anniversary, on Wednes- day OE last wec;k. >SeVL>ral wounded soldiers we present from tie Hospital, including a himself'feit Th°Ugh nhe P*°d ControIler made -n-nself felt, an excellent swpper was prepared Jv the Host and Hostess. Most of the time was occupied by a whist drive, for ™ prizes wer, gl«n by Mr. D. Williams, Cambria Shoe Stores; Mr J. P. Owen, Messrs. D R Jones and Son, Mr. R. BickerstsS, Mr. Ashley Jones, Mr. D. W. Teviotdale, Mr'. J W T Laird, Glasgow; Miss McPherson, 4 friend, Mr r „1Iofa-V' Mrs Ernest CorfieM, and Prof J. W Marshall, M.A., U.C.W. Several friends contributed sums of money to swell the pro- ce^s, which will be handed to B.8 M k rf the whist drive a eoncert was given when Drumr Wagner, of ttft Red Cross Hospital, contributed the first itm., It was a song which created1 roars of laughte* and Drummer Wagner, better known «fl f ,to0^ the oPP^tunity of thanMig kindness, as he was leaving Alw- gtwyth next day "For iSe's a Jollv Good i^Jfow was struck up a*d three "rousinv: were given. An interesting item was I hcotch reading from Bums by Mr. J", McFhe-rson. A fine exhibition of a Scotch rAw6 T? na^V? costume was given by Miss Hilda Teviotdale. Miss Minnie Teviotdale, who was dressed in khaki, delighted the aucWe with songs. Both *ere encored. Mr 'U.1. I caused laughter bv hm cemrc songs. Miss CatEerine Jones £ a* encored for a song and responded by ginirg Angus McDonald." Mrs Halls- worth gave several recitations and to wind up Mr. Teviotdale appeared with the latest Scotch comic songs. During the interval the prizes tor the whist drive were presented bv Mrs. W!n?; Ladies, Mrs. Purton, Miss K. M. Jones, Mrs. Thomas, Miss M Hutchings, and Miss M. Stitt; Miss L. Shone being r awarded the ladies' mystery prize. Gents Miss Berk, Mrs Thomas, Mrs. M. F. Kollason (ladies playing as gents), and Mr. J. Owen, and several wounded soldiers. On the proposition of Mr. Stitt, seconded by f UgIle,S' a vote of thanks was accorded Mr._ a#d Mrs. Teviotdale who had so ably carried out the arrangements. Mr. htitt also proposed a vote of thanks to Mr G Stephen Evans, the accompanist. The evening's entertainment was brought to a close by the Smg f .K AU1<3 Jjang S^ne" and" the National Anthem. The celebration was an entire success and much praise is due to Messrs. Stitt. Tveiotdale, and McPherson, with others who had arranged so pleasant an evening.

Correspondence. ABERDOVEY CHURCH SOLDIERS' PARCELS. Sir,—Will you spare me a small space for this letter' When the war broke out I and my only two sons offered ourselves; but I was re- fused owing to my age which is now sixty-four years. My two sons were taken, my eldest son having served in the Territorials. He volun- teered to go out to Gallipoli and went through the campaign and was wounded in the Gaza barttle, but is now again in action. My youngest son joined the forces before he was eighteen years of age and when a draft was going to Egypt and one of the men was taken ill he offered to take his place. He was sent out to Egypt and has been through many battles through the desert to Palestine and is now in hospital, having been wounded at Beer- sheba. I have never had a word of complaint from either, but always cheeful letters. When they wanted a guard for a Marconi station I joined the R.D.C. and was stationed there; but was afterward sent to Carnarvon and thence to Liverpool and Scotland. I do not think there is a more patriotic family in Wales than mine. All of us are doing our bit. All my family were baptised and confirmed and my girls and boys were always faithful members of the Church choir and Sunday School. Yet I am left out in the sending of parcels, not having received a parcel from my Church, and you can fancy my feelings by seeing the other men all receiving parcels from their several parishes. I have heard that the Church this year is sending a parcel to all the home and overseas soldiers and sailors; but why do they leave out the oldest soldiers from the village? —I am, etc., Private John Lloyd. THE PEOPLE BILL. Sir,—The Representation of the People Bill creates new constituencies all over the country. Liberal Associations are being reorganised I according to the new areas. While their rules vary on points of detail, the condition of membership is practically the same in all cases. Belief in Liberal principles is the only condi- tion of membership. All men and women, electors and non-electors, hand workers and brain workers, who are in favour of the appli- cation of Liberal principles to the Government of the country, will be heartily welcomed as members of the local Liberal Associations. Local secretaries will be glad to hear from any one willing to join. If any intending mem- bers of an Association are uncertain as to which is their consrtuency under Redistribu- tion, or as to the name and address of the secretary of the new Liberal Association, I, as Chief Liberal Whip, will be very glad to place them in touch with the local secretary, if they will kindly write to me to this address. —Yours, etc., John W. Gulland. Liberal Whips' Office, 21. Abingdon-street, London, S.W.I. January 17th, 1918. THE CENTRAL JOINT V.A.D. COMMITTEE. Sir,—Some months ago I made an appeal in the Press, on behalf of the Central Joint V.A.D. Committee, for women to offer their seivices for the sick and wounded. Once again I have to come to the publSc with an appeal for personal service in carrying on the rk to which we have put our hand. During the last month the number ot V.A.D. members posted to meet. the demands of the naval and military authorities has been very large, and although members are coming from overseas to help us, we are noW in ur- I gent need of nursing members for military and auxiliary hospitals at home and abroad. -The army is recruiting women for its service through the W.A.A.C., and the navy will shortly be doing so through the W.R-N.S.. we appeal for workers in perhaps the highest function of women's service, the nursing back to health of the men broken in this world- struggle. c Recent events have brought before the public questions of which we have never lost sight, such as welfare and reforms in the V.A.D. organization. Amendments to the Army Council Instruction which deals with general service V.A.D. workers, have been submitted to the military authorities. Co-ordination in both hospital and convalescent treatment for all V.A.D.'s is now near realization; a central non-residential club for all V.A.D.'s in uni- form is shortly to be opened; the Red Effici-

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CARDIGANSHIRE ACRlCUl TURAlEXCUTIYE COMMITTEE. A meeting of the Executive Committee was held in Lampeter on Wednesday; present Messrs. Richard Evans, Ben Davies, M. L. Vaughan Davies, M.P., David Evans. John Jones, Penwern; John Jones, Cwmmvnach- J. Bunce Morgan, D. J. Williams, and officrafa. It was reported that there were now about twelve teams of horses in the county and m were being purchased each week. Mr. J, W. Lewis, Perthygoppa, BrynhoSnant, was appointed horse officer. An assistant cultivation officer for each uaion was appointed as follows:—Daniel Lloyd, Bryn- bvchain, Llanfarian, for Aberystwyth Union'; J. Jenkins, Glascoed, Felinfach, Aberaertrn; Samuel G. Davies, Rhosygadair, Aberporth, Cardigan; Evan Jones, Maesteg, Cribyn, Liamy- byther, Lampeter; D. P. Jones, Penalltygwrn, BeuEah, Newcastle Emlyn, Llandyssul; and John Jones, Pwllauduon, Tregaron. Tbese officers will be entrusted with the work of. reporting and checking progress in ploughing. A meeting of the Supplies Sub-Committee was also held, Mr. D. J. Williams, Argoed, presid- ing. Representatives of trade from various parts of the county attended. The question of seed oats was discussed and approved agents were urged to increase their orders for seed. It was stated that there would be no deficiency of seed oats this spring. The question of adver- tising supplies of seed potatoes was deferre&- till definite information is forthcoming as re- ) gards prices. Local seed oats was, in view of bad harvest, very unsafe; but merchant* pointed out that there would be ample supplies- of Scotch and English oats. At a meeting of the Labour Sub-Committee, with Mr. Ben Davies, Perthyronen, presiding, it was decided to apply for 100 soldiers for spring and 200 soldiers for the harvest. Plough- ing was now in full swing and the men were making progress. The question of fixing the wages of civilian and soldier ploughmen was discussed.

MID-WALES HORSE SALES, NEWTOWN. HIGH PRICES. The monthly sale of horses was held at the Repository, Newtown, on Tuesday last when op- wards of 120 horses of all classes were included in the sale. The heavy draught horses met with a complete clearance at exceptional bigi4 prices, far exceeding the reserves. t Amongst those real- ing the highest prices we noted the following r —Mr. J. Hamer, Abermule, 133 gns.; Mr. T. Alderson, Perthybee, Sara, 122 and 112; Mr. E. Phillips, Garreglwyd, Aberhafesp, 120; Mr. Reynolds, New Castle Hall, 117; Mr. Williams, Cyll, Trefeglwys, 115; Mr. T. Tones, Tynewydd, Cefncoch, Welshpool, 114; Mr. Chapman, Mor- fodion, 112; Mr. W. Rogers, Balcheldre, Church- stoke, 105; Mr J. Humphreys, Gate Farm, Llan- dyssul, 102; Mr. J. S. Jones, Cwmdockin, Aber- mule, 93; Mr. W. Gittins, New Mills, 79: Mr. Davies, Cancoed, Llanidloes, 79; Mr. Pugh, Llanbrynmair, 78; Mr. D. Owen, Cemmaes Road, 72; and Mr. Gittins, Glyn, Berriew, 60. The unbroken cart colts and fillies were in great demand. Amongst others sold we noted Mrs. Lewis, Moat, Manafon, 73; Mr. D. Owen, Gwastadcoed, 72: Mr. Francis, Tymwrtra, 70; Mr. E. Evans. Tybrith. 67: Mr. D. Owen, The Bank, Aberhafesp, 65; Mr R. Davies, Cemmaes Road, 58; Mr. Evans, Llanidloes. E7; Mr. R. Morgan, Aberhafesp. El; Mr. Jones, Pwllcoch. 51. Amongst the top prices for Harness Horses I and Cobs were Mr. Lewis, Llananno, Penybont, 59; Mr. T. Evans, Cefnllydan, 55; Mr. Pugh, Upper House, 49; Mr. E. Jones, Aberystwyth, 49; Mr. F. E. Williams, Woodlands, 40; Mr. j E. Owen, Black Hall, Llandyssul, 38; Mr. I Pugh, Newtown, 37; Mr. E. Jones, Clun, 31. The next monthly sale is advertised to take place on Tuesday, February 26th, 1918. n976

(Continued from previou column.) ency Stripe is to be given to specially selected military probationers and Voluntary Aid De- tachment members in all war hospitals, and V .A.D members who have gained the Red Efficiency Stripe will be given responsible duties accordingly. This concession, which we have so long been urging the military authorities to grant, will greatly improve the status of our V.A.D. workers in military hospitals. We have an urgent demand for general ser- vice members, cooks, assistant cooks, kitchen- maids, wardmaids and housemaids. We have now sent 6ome hundreds of these general ser- vice members to France, there are thousands ) working in our hospitals at home, and we have I reports of the excellent work they are doing. We feel sure that the spirit of the women of this country is strong enough to see this great struggle through to its finish, and f-bisr they best can do by offering a yet further share of that splendid unswerving service which has characterized the work of the V.A.D.'s throughout the war. It is a work which does not come into the limelight, but its glory is perhaps the greater by reason of the very fact that it does not obtrude. Without more workers the strain will be almost too great for those who are now giving their services; a large response to this appeal will help to bring us within sight of the end for which we all long. Application for either nursing or general V.A.D. service, should be addressed to the Chairman, V.A.D. Department, Devonshire House, Piccadilly, London, Wl.—Yours, etc., Arthur Stanlev, Chairman. 83, Pall Mall, London, S.W.

<BL_, IroOD HTlNOMvl l PLEASE ENROL mv name in the LEAGUE OF NATIONAL SAFETY. I realise that economy in the use of all Food and the checking of all waste helps my country to complete Victory, and I promise to do all in my power to assist this Campaign for National Safety NAME (Mr., Mrs. or Mis4. ADDRESS COUNTY NO MEMBERSHIP FEES. Anyone over Sixteen years of age may join. Sign and Post this Coupon to "Cambrian News," Aberystwyth. Certificate of Membership together with badge will be sent free in due course.