The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

Points of View.-XVIII. By J.M.H. The week just ended bristled with meetings, On Wednesday he Finance Committee of the County Council, the Finance Committee of the Education Committee, and the County Health Committee were held. On Thursday Quarter Sessions and the Joint Standing Committee met. Amid these were funerals and weddings, the agony of nations, and the sound of the whir of the wings of the angel of death. When I reached Llandovery on Sunday morn- ing the first. news to be heard was that Private Cyril Jenkins, third son of the Rev. Joseph Jenkins, minister of the Tabernacle, late of New Quay, had died at the base hospital at Etaples, France, from gunshot wound in the chest received in the great action which began on March 21st. He was twenty years of age and joined the Royal West Surrey Regiment in May, 1916. His brother, Rheinallt, who was clerk at the N.P. Bank, Aberayron, is now in the Tank Corps, Cyril was an exceptional boy. His father mourns for him with all the fervid grief of David for Absalon. He said "Cyril since he joined the army had found his way to the mystery and wonder of the redemp- tive power of the Cross. He knew quite as much as I do after all the years of pondering and preaching." I told him that Carlyle had re- marked that "it was well that Sterling had died young so that he could be remembered as a youth for ever." This seemed to rouse Mr. Jenkins from a stupor of dejection in which his friends may imagine him to be. Logic and argument and fact do not help men and women much in the under world of sorrow. A High Church priest told me some time ago that the compilers of the Book of Common Prayer were ill-advised to include in the Burial Service the fifteenth chapter of I Corinthians, a dialectical disquisition on the resurrection addressed to sophists. There is truth in what he said. People paralysed by the ache of suffering are in no mood to be helped by argument. A flash lit imagining is more to the purpose—"I am glad that Sterling died young, for he will* now always be to me a young man;" or, say, a verse from the Apocalypse,—"A Duw a sych ymaith bob deigr oddiwrth eu llygaid hwy." This rending of heart strings in a minister's home reminds one of the action of the London Welsh ministers advertised with leliborateness in last Saturday's papers. It will be remembered that last week was a week of unusual apprehension and despondency. It was thought not unlikely that the enemy would any day pound forward to Calais. The Man Power Bill had just been intro- duced and it included a clause which enlisted the clergy for non-combatant work. Mark the reservation. In that hour of peril and because of that clause in the Bill an emergency meeting of the Welsh ministers of London was held. It is not difficult to envisage them. They passed two resolutions to the following effect-that the Bill should have a conscience clause, and that no minister be called on to take the military oath. To complete the urgency of these operations a deputation was appointed to urge the claims en the attention of the Prime Minister, and Mr. Towyn Jones, M.P., accompanied the deputa- tion to Downing-street. During the same week the Executive of the Free Church Council and a Wesleyan Committee of Privileges and some of the bishops were discussing the measures that should be taken to carrying on the work of the churches when the ministers had gone. On Monday, April 15th, Sir George Cave announced that the Government had come to the conclusion that they would not press this element and that there would be a schedule in the Bill to exempt ministers of religion." The London Welsh ministers should claim the credit for exempting ministers from service and for safeguarding conscience, whatever that may mean. One is tempted to ask with Pilate "What is conscience?" It is quite a startling claim— a conscience clause for the purpose of exempt- ing London Welsh ministers from doing non- combatant work when the enemy is at our gates!—for we know there are ministers who rather live or die with the boys. A self-revealing letter read at the Court of Quarter Sessions on Thursday from a gentle- man residing near Blaenpennal, which pur- ported to represent the opinion of an organisa- tion called the Welsh Farmers' Union, or some such name. The letter called for a larger representation of farmers on the magisterial bench. I have before me a printed return of the names of magistrates, dated 1909. There has been no later return. In the list for the Petty Sessional Division of Penarth (Tregaron) there are thir- teen names and every one of them are land- owners and farmers. I presume that Mr. D. J. Williams. Mr. D. D. Evans, and Mr. R. S. Rowland, etc., etc., have a right to be called farmers as well as landowners. I think that in all the petty sessional divi- sions of the county the land is well represented. The instance which the correspondent cites to show that the interest of farmers is not adequately protected on the Bench cuts both ways. A farmer was summoned before Aber- ayron Bench for not reporting a case of scab on tack sheep on his land. Superintendent Phillips, who is a temperate prosecutor at all times, gave evidence that it was a bad case. There could have been no reason for failing to observe that. certain of the sheep were affected. The defendant did not appear to offer any explanation. The Bench imposed a fine of S5. The danger from an outbreak of scab and the evidence given seem to indicate that the ■ fine was imposed in the interest cf the farming community. The reference to sheep dip indicates to what an excess of ingenuity men may be carried who are out to seek for a grievance. It is the farmers' millennium and the poverty of the causes for complaint which the letter dis- closes is a proof of it. What if joy-riders do career, why should farmers act the part of the dog in the manger," for whoever uses petrol and howso- ever it is used, the farmer must be first served.

Stop Press. LIEUT. B. TAYLOR LLOYD News was received on Thursday that Lieut. B. Taylor Lloyd, of Aberystwyth, has been slightly wounded in the right foot. His friends will be pleased to know that the injury is not regarded as serious. He is now in hospital in France.

WAR DAY BY DAY. TUESDAY. Bailleul and the Messines Ridge have fallen into enemy's hands after severe fighting. On the French front the enemy made several attacks at Priest's Wood which were repulsed. Prisoners were taken in direction of Regneville and Badonvillers. WEDNESDAY. Intense hostile bombardments were opened by the enemy on the Lys front, and from the Forest of Nieppe to Wytschaete were followed by infantry attacks. All attacks were repulsed and considerable losses inflicted on i-lie nemy. THURSDAY. The number of ships sunk during the week was 11 (1,600 tons or over), and 4 (under 1,600 was 11 (1,600 tons or over), and 4 (under 1,600

tons). DOLCELLEY. The local Volunteers attended divine service at Judah Baptist Church on Sunday, the Pastor (the Rev. Henry Rees) officiating.

[Selected from the writings of the late Sir John Gibson]. .wI TWO GEE AT WRONGS- September 15th, 1899. All the world is crying out against the out- rage done by the French Court Martial in con- demning Dreyfus, who is almost universally be- lieved to be innocent. The sentence of ten years imprisonment passed on Saturday is said to be an outrage on humanity. We are horri- fied. The civilised world feels the degradation of this manifest prostitution of justice. In a speech delivered by President Kruger he says that the English residents refuse political rights on the terms which political rights are given to the native Transvaalers, namely, liability to military service* The English refuse to be placed on the same terms as the burghers of the Republic. The President says that the English do not want political rights, they only want the country. This is what many of us feel. Mr. Chamber- lain is playing the game of the adventurers, and the horrible tragedy of war is threatened, but are we horrified? No, we are too many of us willing to steal back again a country that is rich in gold that we gave away when it was poor. Why should the Transvaal be Dreyfused? That is the question. The declaration in favour of peace and equity is becoming more general, and the Transvaal horror is not yet an accomplished fact, but it threatens, and Mr. Chamberlain increases his terms in order that they may be rejected. It is no use blaming the court martial, or the army, or the Jesuits. It is the common people, after all who are really to blame. They have handed themselves over to- the army in France, in America, and in England, and they must pay the price for what idiots call "glory."

DREYFUS Dreyfus has been sentenced to ten years' im- prisonment. Nobody in the world thinks he is guilty. The French Army stands condemned. The sentence was passed to prevent a revolu- tion. The army would not have accepted an acquittal. The army is the master of France. France herself is dethroned and humbled far belcw the position she occupied when German forces invaded her and beleaguered her and maimed her. The honour of officers has been murdered and should be heard of no more. They are forgers, liars, conspirators, and utter cowards. Dreyfus! I should not be surprised to see him or his nominee Emperor of France. The Coast. J.G.

PETTY PRAISE. I suppose there is hardly a weekly paper published in the country that does not in the course of a week contain several phrases such as Credit is due to," Great praise was won by," and other wearisome forms which are un- worthy of the paper and which belittle the ser- vices rendered by the persons referred to. I have known cases where reports have been sent to offices by the actual individuals who are sup- posed to have been praised. How far off the real thing we are when we are not satisfied without some cheap catch-phrase in the public press. Canada is on the point of wiping out all titles and honours. In this country we might well begin by keeping out of print faint praise which is always harmful. What a ridiculous idea that the local school mistress or the village Hampden cannot do their part in the social life of their town or village without some scribe writing to the local press and informing the world at large that their efforts deserve the applause of the multitude. The thing is cheap; nobody likes it, and the sooner work is done for work's sake the better for the public life of the nation. It reminds me of the corres- pondent who on one occasion wrote a solemn letter to the effect that unless the coffin was described in detail, and also the inscription on the brass plate, the relative of the deceased would be much pained. The effect on the "dear departed" was note stated. How scon are we going to get away from this pettiness and tackle the work that calls us?

ABERYSTWYTH. PERSONAL.—Reg. Sergt.-major J J Dawkins, M.C., D.C.M., has been gazetted lieutenant. He is the son-in-law of Mrs Corfield, 43, North- parade, and was recently awarded the Military Cross, being the fourtth decoration for con- spicuous bravery. BARRISTER'S SON MISSING. Mr. Griffith Jones, barrister-at-law, of Swan- sea ^formerly of Aberystwyth), has been irw formed that his son, Capt Melville Griffith Jones, has been missing since March 21. A letter from the officer commanding says, "He was with his company in the front line when the enemy's attack commenced. His orders were to hold the line to the last and these orders were nobly carried out. No doubt many who are missing have been taken prisoners and Capt. Jones may be among them." He adds that Capt. Jones was one of his best officers and was beloved by all. He is thirty-seven years of age and was educated at University College School, London. Captain Jones's brother was killed at the front last year. NARROW ESCAPE.-Caii)t. R. D. Williams, who is in_ France, escaped serious injury a few days ago. His tent and clot-hing caught fire, but he escaped in time though severely burnt in the hands and head. WEDDING.—A military wedding took place on Sunday morning at St. Michael's Church, between Miss A. E. Hollier, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hollier, Commerce House, and Corporal A. G. Edwards, son of the late ex- Police Superintendent Edwards, Whitchurch, Salop. The bride, who was given away bp her father, Mr. W. H. Hollier, is well known in the town, and has since war broke out been actively engaged in Red Crotw work, being regularly on duty when the troops were billeted in the town, and by her merits was appointed to be first quartermaster of tile local Red Cross Hos- pItal, which position she ably filled for twelve months, when she resigned owing to ill-health. In appreciation of her services a number of the members of the V.A.D. were present at th wedding and also the wounded soldiers from the hospital, this being appropriate as the bridegroom has been thrice wounded—at Ypres, Vimy, and Paschendaele. He joined the St) Canadian Mounted Rifles in 1914, and also served through the South African campaign. After the ceremony the wounded soldier* formed a guard of honour and with their sticks and crutches made an archway under which the bridal party passed. The best man was Mr. Bradney Evans. Whitchurch. Salop. Later in the day the happy couple left to spend a few days in the Vale of Aeron. The bridesmaids were Miss Warburton and Miss May Hollier. and the wedding party included Mr. and Mrs. W H Hollier, Mrs. and Master Dudlvke, Mr. and Mrs Bradney Evans, and Miss and Master Evans, Whitchurch, Salop; Mrs Buttery, Shrewsbury; and Mr. Evans, The Schools, Bronant SURGICAL REQUISITES.—The Surgical Requisites Association acknowledges the follow- tog:—Talybont Working Party, 7s. Borth. 3s.: Mrs. Marston. Borth, 2s.; friend, 2s.; and box Is. lid. CARDIGAN BATTERY'S FINE WORK.—A letter, dated March 14th, has been received by Miss! Thom^sf, NorVaiparade, froni her brother (Dr. Abraham Thomas), who is with the Cardigan Battery in Palestine. In the letter Dr. Thomas says, "We have had a verv stiff week fighting in the hills. You will hav read of our doings in the papers. The advance was to strengthen our positions and our'divi- sion had the stiffest task, as we had to take Tel el Assur, the highest mountain, 3,300 feet nigh, which gave the old Turks a very command- ing position. Our brigade did its part exceed- ing well, and especially our battery. The latter earned splendid praise all through, and especi- ally after the mountain was taken Ly taking the guns down the mountain side through wbii no path had been made by the engineers. ? have walked the way four times and I cam)' possibly understand how they did it. Bv doing so they helped the infantry immensely. Tl- boys are delighted with their work." D". Thomas adds that there were not casualti- among Aber. boys, but a lad from Llan<y vf was wounded in the arm. The officers and n- of the Battery liberally subscribed to a present for R.S.M. Fear. but it was lost in transit. OPERETTA.—On Wednesday, Aprit 24th, Tancae Juvenile Choir will give a performance at the Coliseum of Zurika, the Gypsy Maid." in aid of sailors and soldiers funds. Doors will be opened at 6-30 and performances commences at seven, the time having been altered since the previous announcement. previous announcement. SALE OF FURNITURE.—Mr. J. Gibson announces a sale of furniture at the Rink on Monday, April 29th. PERSONAL.—The Mayor (Captain Thomas Doughton) is now able to resume his civic duties, having returned from a stay at LlaDl- drindiod as the resuit of which his health has greatly improved. ARRIVAL.—On Thursday morning three members of the crew of the H.M.S. Caesar' arrived home. They have not. been home since the outbreak of war. HOME.—Gorpl. Llew. Rowlands, son of Mrs. Rowlands, butcher, North-parade, is home on sick leave, having contracted malaria while serving in German East Africa. CONFIRMATION.-The Bishop "f i t. David's held a confirmation service on Tuesday rroining at Holy Trinity Church. There were t fty-seven candidates presented from St. Michael's, Holy Trinity and Borth. At the Welsh service in the afternoon held at St. Mary's, sixteen candidates from that Church, Llangorwen, Llanfihangel- geneu'r-Glyn, Llanbadarn, and Talybont. Two patienfts were confirmed by his Lordship at the Infirmary. WOUNDED.—Mr. W. Bitchell, Fridge-street Post Office, has received information that his brother, Gunner E. R. Bitchell, R V.A., has been wounded but recovering satisfactorily. MORE ALLOTMENTS.—Applications axe in- vited by the Allotments Association for 200 square yard plots near the National Library. The applications are to be in by Saturday. The Association also offews for sale a quantity of seed potatoes. SESSIONS.—The Mayoif (Capt. Doughton) who has returned in improved health from Llandrindod, Alderman C. M. Williams, and Captain D. James attended at Petty Sessions on Wednesday, but there was no case for hearing. ONE OF THE 55th.—Lieut. B. Taylor Lloyd is one of the members of the gallant 55th Divi- sion recently mentioned for its thrilling action against the enemy. A congratulatory telegram to Lieut. Lloyd and the Division has been sent by his friends. ALSACE-LORRAINE.—On Wednesday even- ing Captain Boillot, formerlv French professor at Bristol University, an officer in the French Army who holds the Croix de Guerre, gave an address at the Town Hall on Alsace-Lorraine. Sir James Hills-Johnes, V.C., Qolaucothi, was chairman over a well-attended meeting and, introducing Captain Boilott, described his dis- tinguished career. The Lecturer's English was excellent and the lecture was interesting and illuminated with humour. Captain Boillot was given a very cordial reception. He. stated that Germany wanted Alsace-Lorraine as a jumping- off place to dominate and terrorise France, and where the will to power was present pretence was never absent. Alsace-Lorraine were French before Germany was a political entity and, though to-day the people spoke a German- ised patois-the French not having coerced the people into using French-the soul of the people was French. At the conclusion of the lecture Mr. John Evans, deputy town clerk, proposed, Alderman Peter Jones seconded, and Major Pugh Evans, Lovesgrove, supported a vote of thanks to Captain Boillot, Major Pugh Evans stating that he had recently returned to Wales after ten months in Roumania where he had learnt to admire French officers and their military efficiency and the French nation for its patriotism. Replying to a vote of thanks proposed by the Mayor (Captain Doughton), seconded by Professor Barbier, General Sir James Hills-Johnes referred Ito "milsguided pacifists at Aberystwyth and in the College," saying that if their desire for peace was granted it would be on the terms of Germany's world dominence. STARVING PRISONERS.—As the result of a doncert given by Baker-street Welsh Congre- gational Church the sum of S5 has been realised for the Starving Prisoners of War Fund. FISH CATCH.—Fish, chiefly cod, landed from a trawler at a northern port yesterday realised the record sum of £ 9,400. The previous record for one catch was £ 8,580—an example to Aberystwyth. NEW DAIRY.—By an advertisement Mrs. Stephens announces that she has opened Har- court Dairy, Terrace-road. The dairy has been closed for two years, but Mrs. Stephenson has had extensive renovations carried out and it is just the place for dairy produce or a cup of tea. PRESENTATION.—On Friday evening the members of tip Afcgfrystwyth Amateur Drama- tic Society were entertained to a social even- ing at the Hydro. previous to closing the season's work. Opportunity was taken to pay tribute, to Mr. and Mrs. G. Stephen Evans. who worked so well for the Society. The Chairman (Mr. D. W. Teviotdale) in presenting Mr. and Mrs. Evans with a silver tea service from the members of the Society, made reference to the success which had attended their efforts, and congratulated them warmly. Mr. Evans, in acknowledging the gift, said he deeply appre- ciated the kindness shown. It was difficult to find words to express his feelings at receiving such an unlooked-for present. He would always remember the enjoyable evenings spent in pre- paration for the "Yeomen of the Guard." HOSPITAL.—The following have been re- ceived :—Rhubarb, Mrs. Stephens, Tanllan, Tal- iesin; flowers, Mrs. Saycell, Goginan; leeks, Mrs Hughes, Branwen; flowers, rhubarb, greens, Lady Pryse; rhubarb, Sir Marteine Lloyd; four dozen eggs, Mr. "Roberts, tobacconist, Terrace- road. SALE. Avondale," Marine-terrace, the private hotel and boarding house, and St. George's Hotel were offered for sale at the Lion Hotel on Wednesday by Messrs. Cooke Bros. and Roberts, but were withdrawn. CINEMA.—The "Incorruptible Crown" is the feature to-day, played by Chrissie White and Stewart Rome, and Charlie Chaplin will re- appear in the "Adventurer." Monday next a drama entitled "Hearts in Exile" will be filmed. THE INFIRMARY.-R, c will of Mrs. Lewis, of Llanayron, Abei > vyth Infirmary and Cardiganshire Hospital Has received E200. The gross value of Mrs. Lewis's estate was £ 19,748, of which £ 14,883 was net personalty. Deceased is succeeded in the Llanaeron Estate by Captain Lewis of Abermaide. IN HOSPITAL.—Pioneer G. W. Parry, eldest son of Mr. G. W. Parry, Llidiarde, has been gassed in France. OCTOGENARIAN'S DEATH.—The death occurred on Friday of Mr. Thomas Tudor, Glanrafon-terrace, aged eighty-two years. Deceased, who was a native of Newtown, had resided at Aberystwyth for the past twenty years. The Rev N. James and Captain Morris, Church Army, officiated at the funeral on Tues- dav. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.-At the annual church meeting held on April 4th it was unani- mously decided to present the Pastor (the Rev Richard Hughes, M.A.), with the sum of E25 war bonus. DEACONS.—The following were elected deacons at Salem C.M. Church on Thursday:- Messrs Jenkin James, M.A., Hugh Hughes, Reliance House; and David Jones, Rathbone. GASSED.—Lieut. T. Powell Richards, son of Mrs. Richards, Edgehill, Brynymor, has been gassed in France. He was rendered blind for four days ,but is now recovering in a Man- chester hospital. PRESENTATION.—On Friday evening, at Lawn Mower Works, Ipswich, Mr. David Griffiths, of South-road, was presented by the aircraft employees with a timepiece on the occasion of his marriage with Miss Owen, Vic- toria-street. Oswestry. Mr. Griffiths thanked all who had taken part and said it would 1 always be a pleasant reminder of the happy time he and his fellow workmen had spent at Ipswich.

KILLED IN FRANCE. Mr. Frank Phillips, Terrace-road, has re- ceived a letter dated April 4th from his son ¡ (Pte. Gordon Phillips) serving in France with the Cheshire Regiment in which he states that Pte. Edward Evans was killed in action. Pte. Phillips adds that a wooden cross has been placed over the. grave. Though not with Evans t when he was killed he had been with him the previous night. Deceased was the youngest son of Mr. Robert Evans, Nantcaerio Lodge, and was nineteen years of age. and before joining the- colours was on the staff of the National Library of Wales. His two brothers, Lieut. W. A. Evans, MX., and Sergt. Robert Evans, D.C.M., are serving in France. i j WEATHER OBSERVATIONS ) For the week ending April 18th. 1918. I. Min. Max. Rain. S'hne. April 12th,- 54.0 44.0 — 4.5 13th.- 52.0 44.0 1.7 Hth.— 50.0 37.0 — 0.3 15tli.- 46.0 35.0 6.0 I, 16t h.- 47.0 41.0 — 4.5 17th.— 49.0 42.0 18th.- 54.0 44.0 — 0:7

LLANCWYRYFON We Tegnt to anounce the death of Mr. James Edwards. Tvnant. He passed peacefully away "n Sunday evening. The funeral takes place on Fridav next at Llangwyrvfcm Parish Church. Official intimation has been received by Mrs. Edwards, Pencommins, that her son Driver Rich- ard (Dick) Edwards, has been wounded. This I is the second son to have been wounded.

Methodist Cymanfa I Gerddorol. LARGE ATTENDANCES. The annual gymanfa gerddorol of the Calvin- istic Methodists of Aberystwyth and district was held on Tuesday and Wednesday at Taber- nacle Chapel. There were crowded attendances at each meeting. The conductor this year was Mr. J. Chas. McLean, F.R.C.O., and the organist, Mrs. Ivor Evans. On Tuesday even- ing, in the absence of Professor Levi, Professor Morris, of the Theological College, presided, and read a letter from Professor Levi regretting his inability of being present. On Tuesday the rendering of Mr. J. T. Rees's "Duw Sydd Noddfa" was excellently gone through and thoroughly enjoyed by the congregation, the soloists being Madame Ceinwen James and Mr. Jack Edwards, Great Darkgate-street. Madame James also rendered "How Lovely are Thy Dwellings." An address was delivered by the Chairman. Mr. John Benjamin presided on Wednesday afternoon, and Mr. Jack Edwards in the even- ing. The singing of the hymns were excellent and the part song, "Bydd Melus Gofio y Cyfammod," and the chorus, "All We Like Sheep," from Handel's "Messiah" were beauti- fully rendered. The secretary of the meetings was Mr. Thomas Williams, Minafon, Elm Tree- avenue; and the treasurer, Mr. W. R. Jones, Great Darkgate-street.

TREGARON. Mr. W. T. Morgan, A.T.S.C., conducted a rehearsal at Bwlchgwynt on Sunday evening. The singing was good and was praised by the Conductor. Bwlchgwynt singing school this year is under the guidance of Mr. T. A. Jones, London House. Messrs. D. L. Jones, F.A.I., and Sons ccr ducted the mart on Tuesday. There was a good supply of store cattle and cows in milk fetched high prices. Six fat cattle and twenty-one sheep were graded and allocated. The funeral of Mrs. Sarah Evans, Station- road, took place on Saturday. Deceased was seventy-six years of age and death took place on Tuesday of last week. The funeral was largely attended. Interment was made at Bwlchgwynt Cemetery, the Rev. M. Evans officiating. Second-lieutenant W. Evans, Tyndomen, is reported slightly gassed, but has made complete recovery.—Private Oswald Lloyd, Llys Einon, is making good progress at Blackburn Hospital. Mr. Arthur Hughes, R.N., youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Hughes, Glangro, Doldre, was home on leave this week. He joined the navy many months ago and has been on sea since January. Hughes has two brothers in tho army—Sergeant Richard Hughes at Salonica, and Private John Hughes, in the South African Contingent. Mr. J. M. Evans, 10, Chapel-street, received a telegram on Thursday that his brother (Gunner Idris Evans) was lying dangerously ill (gassed) in France, and letters were received on Friday from the Matron and Chaplain con- firming the message. A telegram from the Matron was again received on Tuesday that Gunner Evans showed slight improvement; but was not out of danger. Much sympathy is felt with his sisters and brothers in their anxiety and suspense. The Bishop of St. David's attended at St. Caron's Church on Monday afternoon to confirm candidates from Gwnnws, Bont, and Gartheli churches. A large congregation attended. The Bishop delivered an inspiring address and com- plimented the Church Choir (led by Mr. P. W. Rees, C.M.), on its singing. St. Caron's Vestry was held on Wednesday evening. The Rev. D. Jones, B.A. (vicar) pre- sided. The retiring wardens presented a favour- able balance sheet. Mr. J. C. Jones, Cartrei, was elected vicar's warden, and Mr R. Jenkins, people's warden. Miss Williams, Stanley House, and Miss Williams, Rhydyronen, were elected sidesmen. The thanks of the meeting were given to Messrs Hugh Jones, Pencefn, and J. C. Jones, churchwardens, and all church ifficials. PARISH COUNCIL. I The annual meeting of the Council was held on Friday; present Messrs. Rees Jones, Thomas Jones, D. Thomas, E. Caron Evans, E. J. Davies, and Miss Jenkins, clerk. Mr. Thomas Jones, High-street, Doldre, was appointed chairman, and Mr. D. Thomas, vice- I chairman. Committees were elected as follows: —Public Lamps Committee: Messrs. Rees Jones, S. Rowlands, and H. P. Evans. Public Paths Committee: Messrs. E. Caron Evans, E. J. Davies, and Thomas Jones. The Paths Committee were asked to visit the road leading past New Lamb to Bryncaron and report. Mr. E. C. Evans proposed that the Council should meet every two months and not, monthly, and Mr E .J. Davies seconded the proposi- tion.—Mr. D. Thomas, seconded by Mr. Rees Jones proposed that the Council should con- tinue to meet monthly, and that was agreed to. —The Scats Committee was asked to make I arrangements for seatsi to be (placed out.- Public Seats Committee Messrs D. Thomas, D. Rowlands, and J. Jones. Messrs. M. Morgan. Neuadd, and J. Jones Penbontpren, were appointed overseers. Mr. E. C. Evans gave a detailed report for the Committee appointed to inspect Doldre footbridge path. It was suggested that a strong wall be built near the open end of the bridge, with a gate attached. The expense in- curred would reach about E5 and Pl had been promised by the District Council.—It was re- solved to ask the Committee to carry out the work and to approach the District Council for further contribution. Mr. T. E. Jones gave a report of the Com- mittee which visited Derlwyn path. DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL COMMITTEE. The Committee met on Tuesday; present Mr. D. L. Jones (chairman), Messrs D. J. Williams, Thomas Morgan, J. W. Davies, J. Jones, assist- ant cultivation officer; and E. C. Evans, secre- tary. The report of the Cultivation Officer was dis- cussed, and it was decided to serve notices on thirteen farms and a final notice on five farms. It was decided to ask the Machinery Officer to visit Penlan, Lledrod, and to see that the order is complied with. Mr. R. S. Rowland wrote that he had decided i to plough the four acres asked for.

TRECARON RURAL COUNCIL. The Rural Council met on Tuesday, Mr. R. D. Arch presiding. Mr. Timothy Evans gave the report of the Markets Committee. The only decision the Committee had reached was that the field should be again divided; one part not to be used at present owing to the shortage of markets.—The following were elected Markets Committee:—Messrs. R. D. Arch, D. D. Evans, T. Evans, J. Lodwick, David Davies, E. Evans, and W. R. Morgan. j The Surveyor reported that the roller had not arrived on Grogwynion road, but was expected. The Government were responsible for expenses. Mr. John Owen brought forward his notice of motion respecting the salaries of roadmen and officials. He urged an increase.—The Chairman asked the Surveyor how many times an increase had been made?—The Surveyor re- plied that increases had been twice made and the wages now stqod at 24s. Aberystwyth Dis- trict Council and the County Council paid 30s. —Mr. Evan Evans supported the proposition. The increase, lie said, was in every way deserved, and the Surveyor should be urging every workman to fulfil his duties. It was unanimously decided to grant an increase to 30s per week, the payment to be made from April 1st.

PENPARKE. The Committee of the Horticultural Society is already at work. Two sprayers as controlled bv the Government have been ordered by the officers and the necessary quantities of blue- stone and soda so that villagers and farmers ¡ in the district covered by the society will be able to have the use of the sprayers at an early date. Information respecting sprayers can be had from the Hon. Treasurer of the Committee (Mr. J. Edwards). Mr. David Morgan 4nd his son, John Roderick Morgan, late of Pendinas View, were home last week after an absence of seven years. Mr. Morgan and his son are now in the Canadian Army and are on their way to France. Private Idris Thomas, youngest son of Mrs. Thomas, Gwernllwyn, has been wounded. He is progressing favourably.

LLANVMEN The Rev. J. H. Davies, present vicar of Aberg-orlech. Nantgaredig, has accepted the benefice of Llanwnen. He is considered:& force- ful preacher and an earnest parish priest.

Forthcoming Events. Operet.ta. Coliseum, April 24th. Dickens Recital, St. Michael's Parish Hall, May 22nd. -=-

URBAN COUNCIL. THE NEW CHAIRMAN. Machynlleth Urban Council met on Monday; present Messrs R. Gillart, presiding; J. M. Breese, J. Blayney, J. Lumley, Peter Vaughan, Richard Rees, Evan Humphreys, T. H. Evans, and T. Parsons; with the Clerk (Mr: Edmund Gillart), Assistant Clerk (Mr. T. Bond). The Clerk reported that he had forwarded to Lord Rhondda, Mr. J. R. Hughes, Carnarvon, and both members of Parliament copies of the Miedical Officer's report concerning the dis- astrous effect of the town's milk supply if Mr. A. Jones, Tafarn, Penegoes, were made tc plough extra land and thereby have to reduce his milking cows. Colonel Pryce Jones said he would do his best; the County Member had not replied; neither had Mr. Hughes. The Food Ministry wrote that the matter was being con- sidered. He had received an answer to a letter sent before the above gentlemen were written to from J. L. John (War Agricultural Com- mittee), to the effect that the full quota must be ploughed. Lord Herbert Vane Tempest wrote asking to resign his seat on Council on account of not being able to attend.—It was decided to ask his lordship to reconsider his decision. The County Surveyor wrote that he had re- ceived a letter from the War Office re damage to roads.—It was decided to leave it to the Sur- veyor for report. The matter of railway rates between Liver- pool and Machynlleth was deferred for the Clerk to receive letters from Mr. Finchett for the Cambrian Railways. The Collector's report showed that there were 210 6s. lOd. arrears in rates, and the Finance Committee reported a credit balance at the bank of 2271 5s. 7d. Mr. J. J. Humphreys was re- appointed surveyor. The Vigilance Committee wrote that they adhered to Mr. H. Gribble as their representa- tive on the Food Committee.—This was con- firmed. The Oddfellows wrote that they adhered to Mr. D. Philip Jones to represent them.—This the Council disagreed with and eventually Mr. J. Ellis, Iorwerth-terrace, was appointed labour representative. The appoint- ment was not from a society point of view (for Ellis is secretary of the local Druids), but was the Council's nomination of a labour man. The usual votes of thanks were accorded. aitnual MATING. The annual meeting of the Council was held On Tuesday evening when Lord Herbert Vane Tempest presided pro tem until the election of the new chairman. There were also present Messrs Hugh Jones, Richard Rees, J. M. Breese, Richard Gillart, Peter Vaughan, John Lumley, T. H. Evans, T. Parsons, and J. Blayney, with the Clerk and officials. Lord Herbert Vane Tempest said he wished to refer to the letter he had sent and which was read at the meeting the previous evening, resigning his seat. His Lordship said that he had now received a courteous letter from the Clerk asking him to reconsider his decision and had resolved to continue as a member. (Cheers). Mr. Richard Rees proposed that Mr. R. Gillart, the vice-chairman for the past year, be elected chairman. He (Mr. Rees) first be- came a member of public bodies with Mr. Gillart's late father, from whom he had received good training. He was glad to see the two sons (Mr. Richard and Mr. Edmund Gillart, the clerk) following the good example of their father.—Mr. T. Parsons seconded and the motion was carried. Mr. Gillart then took his seat amidst the cheers of his colleagues and said he could not find words to express his thanks for the honour done him. He would I fulfil the duties to the best of his ability. Mr. J. M. Breese was elected vice-chairman. In thanking the members Mr. Breese said that was the third time for him to hold the position of vice-chairman. The appointment of the Finance Committee was considered, and it was resolved that the whole Council act as the Finance Committee. A discussion arose on how many would be a quorum, and Mr. Peter Vaughan proposed that three be a quorum.—It was decided that four be the number, as the previous year. The whole Council was appointed as Main Roads Committee, Streets Sanitary and Water- works Committee, and Town Hall, Fairs, and Markets Committee, in each case the quorum to be four. The following were appointed members of the Owain Glyndwr Institute Management Com- mittee, the retiring members being Messrs. T. R. Morgan, H. H. Meyler, J. Thomas, W. O. Jones, E. Trevor Jones, and Dr. A. O. Davies:— Dr. A. 0. Davies, Messrs W. O. Jones, T. R. Morgan, E. Trevor Jones, the Rev. E. H. Hughes, and Mr. Jenkins, N. and P. Bank. Mr. Hugh Jones, the chairman of the Coun- cil, thanked the Council for the vote of thanks accorded him at the previous evening's meet- ing. The list of attendances for the year was read by the Clerk and the newly-appointed Clubm an (Mr. R. Gillart) had attended twenty-two out of ttoventy-three Councitt meetings, the new vice-chairman (Mr J. M. Breese) had attended twenty-eight, and the former chairman (Mr. Hugh Jones) had attended eighteen.

MACHYNLLETH GUARDIANS. MORE HOSPITAL ACCOMMODATION. The annual meeting of Machynlleth Guard- ians was held on Wednesday, present Messrs. Edward Ilugbes, presiding, pro tem; M. E. Francis, David Evans, J. W. Evans, Richard Jones, Ynyshir; Edward Jones, Towyn; Richard Gillart, Meyrick Roberts, the Rev. G. Rees, Mrs M. Jones, Messrs. Richard Hughes, John Edwards, and Thomas Jenkins, with the Clerk (Mr. W. P. Rowlands), and Assistant Clerk (Mr O. Emlyn Jones). Mr. Meyrick Roberts, Towyn, who was chair- man the previous year, was elected chairman for the ensuing year; and Mr. John Edwards, Cemmaes, vice-chairman. The Boarding-out, Finance, and Assessment Committees were appointed. The Clerk reported that he had received a telegram from the Local Government Board to the effect that the Board would be glad if the Guardians would place any additional rooms at the workhouse (now a hospital), at the disposal of the hospital authorities for wards. The Clerk said he had seen the Matron who stated that there was no additional room at present, but some temporary arrangement could be come to during the summer.—Mr R. Gillart said it was thought that it would be necessary to erect a temporary building, the expense of which would be borne by the Government. The Chairman (Mr. Meyrick Roberts) said he had received a letter requesting him to attend a meeting of the Montgomery Relief Fund Committee at Newtown the previous day. He had been undecided on the matter and had not attended—Mr. R. Gillart said the matter was one that should be followed up, as Machynlleth I and district had subscribed large amounts to I the fund, but not one penny had been received. —It was decided that Mr. R. Gillart and the Clerk attend the next meeting. Messrs. Richard Gillart and Edward Hughes, with the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, were appointed as House Committee to inspect Caer- sws Workhouse.

MACHYNLLETH RURAL COUNCIL At the annual meeting of the Rural Council Mr. John Edwards presided pro tem. Mr. Edward Hughes was re-elected chairman for the year, and Mr. Richard Jones, Ynyshir, vice- chairman. Mr. Richard Williams, inspecrtor and sur- veyor, applied for a bonus to cover increased expenditure and E10 was granted. The Clerk reported that there was a balance in the bank of E231 4s. 2d. At the corres- ponding time last year there was a balance of £363 lis. 4d. The liabilities were 2198 13s. lOd and the net balance was £32 14s. 5d. The Clerk explained that the Council had advanced S50 to the Rural Food Committee.

CROSSWOOD. In the Divorce Court, on Tuesday, Mr. Justice Horridge heard the undefended petition of Herbert Thomas- Hughes, postmaster at Cross- wood, for the dissolution of his marriage be- cause of his wife's' misconduct with Llewellin. Petitioner said there had been trouble with his wife owing to her conduct with a man engaged in tree felling. That man stole some of his (petitioner's) property, and made allega- tions with regard to his relations with Mrs. Hughes. In August petitioner went for a holiday and on returning found Llewellin I wasa. a lodger. Later petitioner ,found a letter written by co-respondent to re- spondent, couched in endearing ternris.—Co- respondent denied that that letter was written by him. Respondent went away despite peti- tioner's efforts. Later on the same day co- respondent went and the two were found living together at Aberystwyth. A decree nisi, with costs, was granted.

4 CAERYNWCH AUXILIARY MILITARY HOSPITAL. Ii QUARTERLY ACCOUNT, V January. February, March, 1918. £ s.: d. Maintenance (Mrs. Richards) 28 0' 0 Donations 12 J* 6 Major Richards 101 17 5 Government Grants:— (Nov., Dec., Jan., Feb.) 434 15' 0 E576 15 U 2 d Overdraft, 31st December, 1917 86 10 n Provisions 177 2 2 Surgical. g j jo Domestic. 75 9 10 Salaries ] 44 9 5 Miscellaneous. 1 1 5 Balance iru hand 183 18 4 2576 15 11 M. RICHARDS, H. PUGHE, Matron. n3039 Treasurer.

Your Income Tax. If your total income is not over £2,500 a year you are not liable to the 5s. rate. Exemption up to E130 with varying scales of allowances afterwards. Now is the time to claim repayment. NOTE! No charge unless benefit obtained.— Write "Tax Expert," Office of this paper Printed by the Proprietors, The "Cambria. News," Aberystwyth, Ltd., and Published by them in Terrace-road, Aberystwyth. in the county of Cardigan; at Ll. Edwards,Stationer, Music Warehouse, Barmonth, in the County ot Merioneth, and at David Lloyd's. Portmadn*. in the County of Carnarvonshire, April 19th. t 1918.