Glamorgan Free Press

RHONDDA DISTRICT COUNCIL. How to Avoid Paying Rates. On Friday evening last a meeting of this Council was held, Mr T. Griffiths, J.P., M.E.. presiding, when there were also present Messrs. Rhys Griffiths (vice-chairman), Morris Morris, J. Thomas, L. P. Griffiths, Alderman W. Morgan, J.P., Morgan Llewellyn, Williiiii iones, W. D. Wight, Alderman Mathias, J.P., and Dr W. E. Thomas; together with the Clerk (Alderman W. H. Morgan), the surveyor (Mr W. J. Jones), and the medical officer of health (Dr Herbert Jones). FLOODING AT TONYPANDY. A report was submitted by the Roads and Bridges Committee as to the best means of pre- venting the flooding at Thomas street, Tony- pandy, which frequently occurs during the stormy weather The report was adopted PRIVATE STREET WORKS. A draft copy of the lease of the Bailey estate with regard to private street works was sub- mitted. On the motion of the Chairman, the terms were approved of with some slight alterations. THEATRICAL LICENCE. Mr Haggar, Ferndale, made an application for a theatrical licence for a proposed theatre at rc Ton, Pentre. The Clerk 'was instructed to request him to submit a block plan of the pro- posed building first. A PHOTOGRAPH "SHANTY." Mr J. H. Jones, photographer, Duffryn street, Ferndale, wrote stating that he was ignorant .f the fact that he had broken one of the Coun- cil's bye-laws through not having submitted a plan of his building. Mr Jones now appeared before the Council, and submitted a photograph of his place of business. Mr Jones having retired, Mr Wight said it was a workshops, and plans should have been submitted to the Council Mr Morris Morris remarked that there was no difference between this building and a sta- tionary engine house, as far as the submitting of plans was concerned. The Chairman: This building is put up to avoid paying rates, and an engine house is not the same as a place of business. The engine is placed for the erection of some buildings, from which revenue can be obtained. He was of opinion that there were now too many of these things about the district. Dr W. E. Thomas moved that Mr Jones be asked to submit plans. This was seconded by the Chairman, and car- ried. Alderman Matthias stated that the attention of the officers should be called to such cases as these. This man had now been here for six months and was not reported. The medical officer stated that this building now appeared much more permanent in Fern- dale than at the Rheola Field, Porth. It was put up altogether in a different way. INSPECTORSHIPS. Mr Superintendent Coles, Pontypridd, allied for the inspectorship appointments formerly held by his predecessor. Mr Rhys Griffiths moved that the appoint- ments be given to the superintendent of police. The medical officer said that the work of in- specting lodging houses should not be given to the police, but should be left in the hands of the sanitary inspector. The Clerk pointed out that this appointment would not prevent the sanitary inspectors from visiting these houses. The Medical Officer: The registry of lodging houses should be at the Council's Offices, and not at the police station. The Chairman: It can be kept at these offices and at the police station. The Medical Officer contended that the Coun- cil should have control over these houses and not the police. The appointment was then agreed to. SANITARY INSPECTORS' EXPENSES. A question was raided from the minutes by Alderman W. Morgan with regard to the ex- penses of the sanitary inspectors. The Chairman stated that if the inspectors walked the whole way, they would have better opportunity of inspecting the roads, etc. The Medical Officer stated that they got their train fare one way alone. For instance, if the inspector was required at Dinas or Havod, he would go down by train and walk back. THE CHAIRMAN AND SOBRIETY. The Chairman thought it would be beneficial to the ratepa-ers and the Council if the work- men of the Council would not spend their time in public-houses when they should be doing their duty. There was a man at present who lias been dismissed for this reason, and had been re- engaged to the work of roadman. He (the speaker) referred to his own district especially. The Surveyor: We dismissed a man twelve months ago for that reason. The Chairman Yes, and you have re-engaged him. The Surveyor: We only appointed has as a temporary man. The Chairman: I have seen him go into public-houses when he should have been at work. He is not the only one. I have no grudge against the man, but it is common talk in the neighbourhood. We have some very different men, and some the other way about. I move that the medical officer and the road inspectors be authorised to dismiss these men who waste their time in public-houses. Mr Rhys Griffiths: I don't think we need such a resolution. That is the dut- of our officers. The Chairman: We don't want H^totaUci'S, J you know, but we Want men to do their duty I honestly and fairly. BILLS. The meounts passed by the Finance Com- mittee for payment amounted to 42,626 17s lid, SURVEYOR'S REPORT. The Surveyor submitted estimates and costs for the diversion of the main sewer at Treorky, of sewer for Concrete Houses, Dinas, and sewer for Saron street, Williamstown. PLAIMS. Plans for an hotel at Ferndale for Mr A. Richards, and of houses at Heolfaeh, were re- jected. THE NURSE'S SALARY. The nurse of Ystrad Hospital applied for an increase of salary. She stated that she had now been in charge of the hospital for nine years. The Medical Officer stated that she also acted as caretaker, and when there was no one at the hospital she received £1 per week, 27s per week when there was one patient at the hospital, and 33s per week when there were two or more pa- tients there. The Chairman thought that she and her hus- band were well paid. Dr Thomas said they were at present doing day and night duty. He was of opinion they had too much work when the hospital was full. They had lately been up from nine days to a fortnight without sleep. Mr Wight asked if the medical officer could not suggest a means whereby more assistance could t", obtained. The Medical Officer stated that there was no accommodation for another nurse. After further discussion the application was allowed to lie on the table. TEMPORARY BUILDINGS. Mr Rhys Griffiths asked whether the owners of temporary buildings, such as photographic studios, etc., had to pay rates and taxes. In some cases where a landlord paid about E10 for a house, one of these travelling men would come and erect a "shanty" up against the pine end of this house without having to pay any rates and taxes. The Chairman stated that as a district they derived no benefit from these private individuals. Could no way be suggested whereby rates and taxes could be got out of these people? Mr John Thomas said that sometimes there were two or three vans in a field without having to pay rates. Mr Morgan Llewellyn asked whether the land- lords could not be induced to refuse to give these people the loan of the lands. Mr John Thomas: But they make money by it. At last it was decided that the officer's report upon all of these buildings that ccine to the place. HOSPITAL COMMITTEE. On the motion of the Chairman, it was de- cided to appoint a permanent hospital committee at the next meeting.

Liberalise in East Clanjorgaq. THE MARCH FORWARD. Mr Charles Morgan, Liberal agent for East Glamorgan, addressed a well-attended meeting of Liberals at Gilfach-Bargoed, and arrange- ments were made for the formation of a Liberal Association. The ever-popular hon. member, Mr Alfred Thomas, M.P., accompanied by the Liberal agent, will shortly visit the locality and address the electorate.

—' Yon can say what you like, but I know well T. Harris'! groceries none eau Th§ OfBtrftl Stores* Tfcf ilzwk CM

GLYNCORRWG DISTRICT COUNCIL' Adoption of the Infectious Diseases Act. WANTED—A CEMETERY. THE PROPOSED JOINT HOSPITAL. SCARCITY OF WATER. The ordinary meeting of tnis Council was held at the Town Hall, Cymmcr, on Thursday, under the presidency of Captain J. G. Morris, J.P., There were also present Councillors J. Davies (vice-chairman), W. Matthias, J. Richards, Daniel Evans, D. Williams, J. Morgan, and D. Richards; with the clerk (Mr Cuthberton), the deputy-clerk (Mr Williams), the surveyor (Mr J. Howells), and the medical officer (Dr Hem- ming). A WISE PROGRESSIVE STEP. In accordance with a notice of motion given. Councillor Matthias proposed "That the provi- sions of the Infectious Disease (Prevention) Act 1890, be adopted in the Urban district of Glyn- corrwg as and from the c- day of September, 1897. Councillor D. Davics seconded, and it was unanimously carried. A NEW CEMETERY. The Chairman moved that application be made for Parish Council powers to enable the Council to provide a cemetery for the district. It was unanimously agreed to. ISOLATION HOSPITAL. A communication was read from the Clerk to the Maesteg Urban District Council, in regard to the proposed joint hospital for the Maesteg and Glyncorrwg Councils. The letter was to the effect that the Maesteg Council would consent to join the Glyncorrwg Council in appointing a joint committee, upon the condition that the representation on such committee should be based on and in proportion to the rateable valnee of the respective districts. The Chairman (Captain Morris) thought they should not consent to that. He suggested that the Clerk write to Mr Scale (the Clerk of the Maesteg Council) informing him that the Glyn- corrwg Council would not agree to such a pro- cedure, and further, that plans be submitted to the County Council for the erection of an isola- tion hospital for the Glyncorrwg district. This was accepted by the Council. MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT. The medical officer (Dr Hemming) reported that the houses situated at Nos. 29 and 30, Villiers road, Abergwynfi, owned by Mr Daniel Gronow. Rhondda Vahev, were unfit for human habitation owing to defective drains under the houses. During the last month sixteen cases of infectious diseases had been notified. There had been a scarcity of water at Cymmer during the month. The birth-rate during the month was 52.36 per 1,000, while the death-rate was 13.09. ABERGWYNFI WATER SUPPLY. The surveyor (Mr J. Howells) in his report stated that the estimated cost of laying the pip- ing for the supply of water at Abergwynfi would be about £ 95. The clerk also reported that Mr Randall (Lord Dunraven's agent) has consented to grant the Council, free of charge, all the material required to do up the poruon of the road near Gelli Mill crossing, and the work is now being "oceeded with. THE WATER SUPPLY AT CYMMER. Owing to the recent drought, temporary pipes had been laid to convey the water over the rivei near the old rock. DANGEROUS TELEGRAPH POSTS ON THE GLYNCORRWG ROAD. The Surveyor having called the attention of the Telegraph Company to the above, arrange- ments had been made for the repairing of the posts. PROPOSED NEW BRANCH OF THE R. & S. B. RAILWAY COMPANY. This branch will cross an old parish road lead- ing to Gyfvlchai, and the chairman gave in- structions to write to Mr Ludlow on the matter.

GLYNCORRWG SCHOOL BOARD. Dr. Francis Thomas Resigns. The monthly meeting of this board was held at the Town Hall, Cymmer, on Thursday, under the presidency of Captain J. G. Morris, J.P.; and there were present Messrs W. Lewis, J. Roberts, and T. Munro; together with the clerk (Mr H. Cuthberton), PUPIL TEACHERS' CENTRE. The Clerk read a letter from Mr J. Davies, stating that he would be pleased to take the class for the instruction of pupil teachers at a salary of P,100 per annum. Captain Morris (the chairman) suggested that the matter should now be left in abeyance until the visit of H.M. Inspector of Schools, at which time they could discuss the matter with that gentleman. NEW MEMBER WANTED. The Clerk read a communication from Dr Francis Thomas, a member of the Board, late of Glyncorrwg, in which he tendered his resig- nation as member of the Board, he having re- moved from the district to Aberaman. On the motion of Mr Lewis, seconded by Mr MmiTO, Dr Thomas's resignation was accepted. It was decided that a special meeting of the Board be called, to take place a few minutes before the next ordinary meeting.

BORWIOIVrS Tho best "Pnlwi. DER

l tiOPYRlGHT. J A DAUGHTER OF THE TROPICS. BY FLORENCE MARRY AT, Author of 11 Love's Conflict," Vtronique," etc. CHAPTER XXI. THE UNEXPECTED VISITOR. IULST this little episode was occurring between Esme Fielding and his mother at Applecourt, Colonel Escott and Mrs. Arlington had much need of mutual comfort in London. The marriage-a quiet affair, at which no one but the principal actors concerned were present-was over. Mark Kerrison had seen such long faces pulled each time the subject was alluded to, and Lily Power shrank so palpably from publicity, that between his dread of ridicule, and her iircad of criticism, they had walked into church one morning by themselves, and emerged thence as man and wife. For the same reason Mr. Kerrison had not been able to persuade Miss Power to re-enter the house, of which she was 80 soon to be the mistress, so that the inmates had not seen her since the day of the dinner- party and a letter, which the bridegroom posted to E-cotl the day of the wedding, as they were starting for the Highlands, was the first, intimation the household received that their master \vi? married. It was written in Mark s usual affectionate style, yet the Colonel dId not feel much the happier for its reception. Dear old chum," he said, you must join us fts soon a3 ever you can, for I shall not begin to 'enjoy myself iin!il you arrive. I)On t be afra-.d that we shall bore you by an exhibition of con- jugal bliss. Lily is tne most sensible wotnan I ever met, and agrees with me that such things are best kept for privacy. The land-agent at Glencara writes me word tne birds are very plentiful this season, and there is room for six guns on the little preserve. If you come- which, of course, you will-I shall ask Chant- rell to join us, and then you will be always sure of a companion. Or would you prefer to bring young Fielding ? D, jlbt as you please, old man only come as soon after the twentieth as you can." But Escott would not go. He did not doubt the sincerity of Kerrison'a invitation, but he had no heart to accept it. "Mark must give me a little more time to become reconciled to the idea of his being a married mal)," he said in confidence to Mrs. Arlington, as they sat at dinner together. It is stupid of me, I suppose, but I cannot realise it. He has always been the embodiment of freedom to me. It seems so impossible to pic- ture him tied to a woman5* apron-string—per- haps to the comh uf a sickly woman, for she looks anything bin htalrhy 10 me-and obliged to give up his bachelor dinners, and come home early and play propriety. I feel as if he would not be the sr. me Mark I have known. And (if I am not misraken, Mrs. Arlington) you think much as 1 do." For Lola Arlington had been unusually grave and quiet since the reception of the news, although her heart was thusang to find some means of revenge. You are quite right, Colonel," she answered, with a sigii. I ui course, it is not my part to criticise any action ot Mr. Kerrison's, but- I speak to you in the strictest confidence—I cannot help thinking t-nis marriage ill-advised. I have thought so from the beginning. I don't know that, uiitter any circumstances, Ir. Ker- rison would be happy as a married man, but he should at ltasv have united himself to someone in the same position of life." "Miss Power is a lady," rejoined Escott quickly; "at least I have always understood so." Oh, I daresav she says so, Colonel, but I don't know what, means M, Kerrison has taken to ascertain the truth. She has never produced any of her relations. He is not even aware if the name she goes by is her own." I think Mark must have made sure of that! said her uneasily. "But it cer- tainly seems vtr\ strange that we have heard nothing of her family. 8he is bound to have kinsmen somewhere. And this exceedingly private marriage—too 1 am sorry Kerrison agreed to it. It may make ill-natured people fancy there is something wrong." "They're sure to siy 1-at," replied Mrs. Arlington, with a dubious laugh; and I am airaid poor M r. Kerrison wi I find he has laid up trouble for himself. However, it is done now, and o one can help him. But I Suppose you will join them after a time, Colonel Escott? It will do you good to have a little change, and there is no saying how soon your friend May require the comfort of your pre- sence." I have no intention of doing so," said the Colonel, with a tender glance beaming from his blue eyes. "London whilst you are here-is quite good enough for me, and leaves me no desire for change. If Mark had proposed to ask you to Glencara to be my companion, instead of Chantrell, it might have formed an inducement for me to alter my plans. As it is, there is none." It will be seen by these words that the pledge of friendship entered into by Colonel Escott and Mrs. Arlington on a certain Sunday evening, lOrne time before, had been more than re- deemed. Indeed, in the infatuated woman's desire to pique Mark Kerrison, by an affecta- tion of interest in his friend, she had said and listened to a great deal more on the part of the latter than she had at first intended, an; did not see the way open for her to draw back. And what are your plans ? she answered, imiling. "If I thought there was any chance of yom being in the same place, I should run down for a few weeks to the. siiaiktc, bat I suppose there is ,jnot? said the Colonel, wii.tfnlly. Mv dear Colonel, what are you thinking of ? What, would become of the house and the servants if I were away ? Oil no, there is no hope of my having a holiday this year. Here I remain until our people return." Then I shall do the same," replied Escott — "that is, I sha'i stay in London. I have seen a cosy set of chambers near the Marble Arch, which will just suit me. and it will take me some time to Ji;, them up to my fancy. I am it regular old bachelor, Mrs. Arlington, as you must have found out by this time—fussy and tidgely to a degree—and I shall want every- thing about me to bi very nice. Will yon give me the benefit of your taste in furnishing It will be so very kind of you, and 1 shall value my twice as much if they have met with your "Of course I will give you all the assistance in my power, Colonel," said lola. bashfully. Alt hough I fihaii be dreadfully sorry to see you go away, and the house will seem empty to me after your departure." "My dear girl," ciied Escott, getting hold of one of her hands, "how I wish I could persuade you to come and keep house for me What a happy httle home we might make for hu^SeTVu8 to6eljher Iam not rich, it is true; there—*rave en°ugh for comfort and But you to io*~Pi?se is of no use tryinst0 <-emPfc He dr kerrison and fher°aPvoldoi'er.hand again as he conclude1d' professing to arr»»ne in his eyea by Leave onT her bosom- Colonel could hav« simp e would have read hoi hoSL u* would be. hopeless such an attempt My dear Colonel, I feel a suggestion; but you must Unotf^ impossible. Whatever wSld" P*" » left Mr. Kerrison's service tT g^/jf house for you? You forget that f am 2 unprotected woman, with nothing b t character to earn a living by." u my Forgive me. It was a stupid thing for me to say, but I hope you did not misunderstand my meaning. The highest lady in the land could not receive more honour than I should pay to you but my tiny menage would necessarily afford no scope for the exercise of your domestic talents." "If it is so tiny I daresay I shall be able to manage them both," said Mrs. Arlington, gaily; "and having ordered Mr. Kerrisons •inner here, run over to give an eye to the cleaning of your furniture there." Is that a promise ? exclaimed the Colonel eagerly. "-May I really hope that you will sometimes brighten my rooms with your pre- tence, and cheer up a lonely old bachelor with ?rour charming talk ? For I shall be really onely, Mrs. Arlington, when I leave you." And do you suppose I shall not feel the Sjkflic i" &he auswered. dropping her eyes. He seized her hand again, pressed it, and released it with a eigh. Then-as if he dared not trust himself longer in her presence-he turned from her suddenly and left the room. Lola Arlington looked after him with a smile of derision upon her countenance. In consequence of this conversation the next day's post conveyed a letter of hearty congratu- lation to the newly-married pair in the High- lands, but a decided refusal to visit Glencara. And for the next fortnight Colonel Escott and Mrs. Arlington might have been met in diverse places, with their heads close together in earn- est consultation over the various merits of inky- blue or terra-cotta; over silks and stuffs, or wall- papers. Every article of furniture for the new cham- bers was chosen according to the taste of Lola Arlington, or made up under her direction; and bystanders who only watched the game would have been puzzled to know with what object (Mr. Kerrison being out of her reach) this woman toiled to keep herself on good terms with Colonel Escott. But she never did any- thing without a purpose. She saw, in this honest, simple gentleman, a tool ready made to her hands for the future, and that it was to her advantage to keep him in the dark with regard to her real feelings. What pain he might suffer in consequence never troubled her mind for a moment, She thought only of her- self and her own benefit. She saw that he was kind-hearted and susceptible, and greatly admired her, and trusted, by playing onhis feel- ings, to secure a friend for the hour of need. Things were in this position one day towards the end of August when she returned home hot, tired, and dusty, to be informed that a lady was in the drawing-room, waiting to see her. Mrs. Arlington's first impulse was to deny her- self to the visitor. She had been standing about all day choosing carpets and curtains, and fatigued herself too much even to do justice to the luncheon which the Colonel had gallantly provided for her afterwards. Besides, she knew of no lady whom it would be to her interest to receive. She was not a woman to make friends with her own sex-as a rule she detested them and the few female guests Mark Kerrison invited to his house were not in the habit of calling on Mrs. Arlington after- wards. Yet the footman informed her that the visitor had asked fur her distinctly by name, and been waiting for more than half an hour to see her. She therefore concluded it was her duty to inquire at least what she wanted. As she entered the drawing-room a tall, thin, dark woman, fashionably attired, rose from the sofa and bowed to her. "Mrs. Arlington, I presume?" "That is my name, madam. Perhaps you are not aware that Mr. Kerrison is absent from home and will not return for another month." "It is you I called to see, and not Mr. Kerrison," replied the visitor; for although I know him very well by name, I am not per- sonally acquainted with him. I am Mrs. Field- ing, the mother of Mr. Esm6 Fielding, whom you may have teen here." "Have I really the pleasure of speaking to Mrs. Fielding ? cried Lola, her interest in the stranger immediately aroused. "How sorry I am, madam, to think that you should have been kept waiting. But it is unavoidable. I have been out all day choosing furniture for Colonel Escott; and he is away too, I regret to say he is about to leave us on account of Mr. Kerrison's marriage, of which doubtless you have heard. I am afraid it will be a terrible break up for us all. And of course you want to see the Colonel ? No, Mrs. Arlington, (as I said before) I have come up to London from Applescourt this morning expressly to see you. I have a strong motive, as you may imagine-one known only to myself. And I should not venture to place so much confidence in a stranger if my son Esin6 had not mentioned your kindness to him in glowing terms to me." Mr. Esme Fielding is too good," mur- mured Mrs. Arlington. I have often seen him here but I cannot recall any occasion on which I have been enabled so show him more than ordinary civility. But will you not remove your walking-things, and allow me to offer you some refreshment ? Travelling on such a day must have greatly fatigued you. I should advise a little rest and a cup of tea before you honour me with-the confidence you have alluded to." This was just what Mrs. Fielding desired. She was not prepared to make, a full disclosure of her reason for visiting London at once. She wanted to beat about the bush and feel her way a little before she opened fire. And Mrs. Arlington was just of the same mind. Whatever Esme's mother had come to find out, she would have to show her hand more openly before she obtained any satisfactory informa- tion. They were well matched to sit down and play a game of speculation together. CHAPTER XXII. SIIE WAS A LILY TOO. AT last, when they were rested and refreshed, and had mutually paid various compliments, and practised a little light skirmishing, after the manner of women who intend to work out each other's secrets, Mrs. Arlington led Mrs. Fielding into Colonel Escott's sanctum, and seated her in a luxurious arm-chair near the open window. "Here, my dear madam," she said, suavely, we shall be secure from interruption, and as comfortable, I think, as this unpleasantly warm weather will permit us to be. This was poor Colonel Escott's sitting-room. I little thought when I superintended its arrange- ment, on his return from India, last May, that he would give it up so soon." It is a charming little apartment," replied Mrs. Fielding, looking around her, and fur- nished with exquisite taste. But why do you sigh, Mrs. Arlington, when you speak of Colonel Escott ? Is it not his own choice to leave Mr. Kerrison's house ?" "Yes, madam, it is certainly, for nothing would induce him to remain. But he feels it acutely for all that. You see, Mr. Kerrison and lie always intended the remain single, and live together to the end of their lives. And so they would have done had this—this—lady not unfortunately come in the way His marriage was a sudden arrangement, then, on the part of Mr. Kerrison?" "Very sudden I don't think he had known her for more than a couple of months And who is she, Mrs. Arlington ? I cannot tell you, madam, for I do not know!" "But to what branch of the Power family does she belong? It's an Irish name. You must have seen some of her relations ? "No I we never saw any of them." Not at the wedding ? The wedding took place privately. Even Colonel Escott and I heard nothing of it until it was over "Dear me! That is very extraordinary!" said Mrs. Fielding. "And with a man of Mr. Kerrison's fame and popularity too What is the young lady like ? Is she very beautiful ?" You might call her so," replied Mrs. Arling- ton, carelessly. "She is tall and thin, with a pale complexion, colourless hair, and washed- out eyes. She impresses me with the idea of consumption but tastes differ. I suppose Mr. Kerrison considers her perfection. I have heard him say she is the personification of her name Lily." Mis. Fielding's eyes had twinkled brightly at Mrs. Arlington's description of the bride, but she only remarked, demurely Lily is not a common name It is a striking one. Perhaps Miss Power —Mrs. Kerrison, I should say-adopted it for the purposes of the stage." "Was she on the stage, Mrs. Arlington!" How shocking "She was indeed! She appeared in London first in Mr. Kerrison's play, 'Miss Credo.' That is how they met. A great misfortune, I am afraid but it is no use regretting it. And all this time we are neglecting the object of your visit, Mrs. Fielding. I am quite anxious to learn in what way I can be of assist- ance to you." Mrs. Fielding's eyes were still twinkling with the light of success, but she pretended to be struggling with her difficulty. Well, my dear Mrs. Arlington, I feel more diffident as I approach the subject, and less cer. tain that I shall not be worrying you to no purpose; but it was a word or two dropped by iisine that brought me here. At the same time, as the opinions of mothers and sons do not always agree, may I first claim your kind promise to keep my visit and its design a secret ? Oh, certainly oried Lola Arlington, who would have promised anything to get at the truth. "Th fact is. that some time aco I had a girl at Applescourt who turned out very badly. I had engaged her as a companion for myself, having no daughter, whilst my son was abroad. But on his return to England, this girl laid herself out deliberately to entrap the poor boy, and did so far succeed as to cover herself with disgrace, and necessitate my sending her away without warning or character. So far my story is a common one. Such unpleasantnesses hap- pen, I fancy, in most families." "They certainly do happen sometimes," acquiesced Mrs. Arlington, cautiously. "Naturally I was very anxious that, once separated, these young people should not meet again. My son Esmd is my only child, Mrs. Arlington. He comes of a high family on both sides, and he is the sole heir to all my pro- r sides, and he is the sole heir to all my pro- perty. You may judge, then, how much I desire that, when lie marries, it shall be according to my wishes, and someone of whom I can entirely approve. And yet I cannot help feeling that be still hankers after this wretched creature, Lily Prescott." She was a Lily too exclaimed Mrs. Ar- lington, involuntarily. Yes that is perhaps why the name of the bride struck me as unpleasantly familiar and, strange to siy, Mrs. Arlington, your des- cription of Mrs. Kerrison tallies wonderfully with that of Miss Prescott. You noticed, per- haps, my surprise when you mentioned her appearance. I have a bad habit of betraying my feelings. Though, of course, it can only be a chance re-semblance. We meet many people as we pass through this world—perfect strang- ers to each other-who might be taken for relations. But I have Lily Prescott's photo- graph with me," fumbling in her pocket as she spoke. It was taken when I believed she was a girl to be trusted, and I found it in one of my drawers yesterday, and brought it up to see if you could recognize it CHAPTER XXIII. "I MAY CLA Dr MY REWARD." IN making her last observation Mrs. Fielding played a wrong card, and was made to acknow- ledge the error without delay. Mrs. Arlington drew herself up stiffly, and inquired How can I p; ssiblv recognise a. person I have never seen, Mrs. Fielding? The name of Prescott is quite unfamiliar to me. I do not remember to have heard it before. Did anyone tell you that I had ? Mrs. Fielding Raw she had put her on her guard. She could have bitten out her tongue the next minute for doing it, but it was too late to rectify the error. So she stammered, lamelv Well, to tell you the truth, dear Mrs. Arlington, Esme did (in speaking of his Lon- don friends to me) so nearly reveal that he had met Lily Prescott again, that I have been puzzl- ing my brains ever since to think where it could have happened, and determined to come up and ;sk your advice. You see it might have been anywhere, and knowing Mr. Kerrison received so many young ladies irom the theatres and such-like places, I thought it might have been here. And-now let me make a f; iend of you, dear madam, and tell you everything—I would give hundreds to prevent Esme meeting this girl again. She is thoroughly bad and unprincipled, and-you will forgive a mother's anxiety for her only son—she is not a fit associ- ate for any young man. And I thought perhaps —if it were here he had met her—I should be doing a kindness also to you (who have been so kind to my dear boy) by putting you on your guard against her." But Mrs. Fielding had done more—she had put Mrs. Arlington on guard against herself. The fair Lola had taken in the situation at a glance. If her rival should prove to be the dis- graced LIly Prescott under an assumed name, she held the game in her own hands, to be played as suited her convenience. And she meant to have no partner in it. It was to be a game of solitaire. All she needed for her purpose was to see the photograph. I cannot thank you sufficiently for your kind interest in me. Mrs. Fielding," she answered, sweetly "but I hardly think I shall be able to help you. Is Miss Prescott on the stage ?" I have heard nothing of her since she left my service. She disgraced herself too tercibly for me to wish to hear anything. But she may be for aught I know to the contrary." Perhap3 the photograph will help us," said Mrs. Arlington, lightly. Mrs. Fielding placed it in her hands. Yes, there was no doubt about it. It was the like- Bess of Lily Power m She had been less thin in those youthful days. The face was rounder—the smile more content; but the girl who stood for that picture was the same girl Mark Kerrison had made his wife. And yet Mrs. Arlington gazed at it without the least sign of recognition on her counterance. It is a pretty face," she remarked, pre- sently; "and the young lady must have been very youthful when it was taken." "You do not recognise it, then?" inquired Mrs. Fielding, anxiously. Lola Arlington looked" up at her with open eyes. < Recognise it How could I ? I told you I had never even heard the name before." But people change their names occasion- ally, and I am sure she had every reason to change hers. Does it remind you of any- body yoti have seen ? Mrs. Arlington shook her head determin- atelv. "No one. But if your heart is very much bent on discovering if Mr. Esm^ Fielding is still in communication with this young lady, I might be able to help you in my poor way. I shall be everlastingly grateful to you if von will. But how shall you set about it ?" "Ah, that is my secret, Mrs. Fielding!" cried the other, laughing; and you must not ask me to divulge it. Only leave me the photograph for a few weeks, and you shall have the first intimation of any discovery I-may make." 44 You will not show it to my son, or tell him of my visitingyou said the mother, fearfully. "Mrs. Fielding! am I a woman? Please credit me with a little more finesse and tact than that amounts to. Of course I shall not allude to the subject by so much as the merest hint before Mr. Fielding. But I may tell you one tliijig-lie has already gone eo far as to tell me ihat there is a young lady in London whose a. Jurors he is anxious to discover. But this was months ago he may have found her out before now." "1 am y-ure he has!" cried Mrs. Fielding, clasping hot hands. If you had seen his change of manner the other morning, when I read out to him the announcement of Mr. Ker- rison's marriage, you would have divined at once there was something wrong. Indeed it was that which c-xcited my suspicions. I could not help suspecting—you must promise me never to mention this ag:iin, but I could not help believing—that Miss Lily Power and Lily Prescott were one and the same person; but I should not dare to say so to anyone but yourself." Mrs. A rlington's sense of the ludicrous was eo tickled by this idea that her mirth was positively infectious. "Oh! C)ii dear," she gasped. "What would poor dear Mr. Kerrison say to such a notion? 1 believe he would kill you, or me, or Mr. R.né Fielding The Lily Bride a dis- graced companion. My diar madam, pray— pray never speak of such a doubt again. You must have been utterly and completely led away by your imagination. Mrs. Mark Ker- rison is an elegant, stately young person who has never stooped to service, or Had the least slur cast upon her character. You must put this ridiculous fancy out of your head once and forever." Mrs. Fielding was a lady of much import- ance in her own estimation, and did not at all relish being called "ridiculous" by a house- keeper. But when we have placed ourselves in the wrong, we are apt to tie compelled to swallow humble pie. The misuess of Apple- court had to do so on this occasion, and join in the laugh ag-iiust herself. "I am really ashamed to think I should have made such a ludicrous mistake," she fal- tered, "liut you must ascribe it, entirely to my solicitude nbout my son. I know how obstinate young men are, and that the very opposition they encounter makes their wishes too times more desirable to them. I would give," she continued presently—for she could not divest her mind of the idea that Mrs. Arlington knew more than she chose to ( I would give anyone a hundred pounds who would bring me undeniable proofs that Lily Prescott is dead, or married." "The first will be the safer assurance to receive of the two," replied Lola Ailingto.a. ? Well, Mrs. Fielding, I will keep my eyes open on your behalf, and perhaps some day I may come and claim my reward. Mean- whiIe-" "Meanwhile if you ever come across her under any circumstances, keep my dear Esmé, at all risks, out of her sight." "Ah now, my dear madam, you set me a task beyond my powers, for, believe me, I have no influence over Mr. Fielding. His god- father, who is really fond of him, would be a far better person to apply to." "Ah! no," exclaimed Mrs. Fielding with a shudder; "Colonel Escott is too good and unworldly for my purpose. He would advise my boy to marry the girl, whatever came of it. He holds these old-fashioned ideas of love and honour, which are very estimable, no doubt, but quite unfitted to assist a young man to make hi's way through the world." He is a truly good man," said Mrs. Arling- ton, with one of those sudden convictions which are borne in occasionally on every soul, how- ever low it may have sunk in wickedness. "Oh, cerfcainlv But in a case like this we want tact, and not virtue and it is to your tact, Mrs. Arlington, that I look for assistance in my extremity." I will do my best for you," repeated the younger woman, as she pocketed the photo- graph and lay back in her chair, as though to intimatc the subject was exhausted. But long alter Mrs. Fielding had returned to Applecourt, Lola Arlington sat there, with her full, dark eyes turned up to the evening sky, and tried to think out the mystery. There was no doubt of one thing-Lily Pres- cott, the discharged and disgraced companion of Mrs. Fielding, and Lily Power, the wife of the most popular dramatist of the day, and the mistress of the house she sat in, were one and the same person. So far all was plain and Esm6 Fielding had been the lover of Lily Pres- cott, and was the lover of Lily Kerrison. So much she had gleaned from maman's prophecies and his own admissions and she loved Kerri- son with all her heart and soul, and would give her life to see her rival exposed and cast out upon the world again But how to manage it without bringing down the wrath of the outraged husband on her devoted head? Here was a pretty mystery !—an intricate game of chance But life to Lola Arlington was composed of such intrigues she cared for nothing else. (To be continued.)

Pretty Domestic Iqcidentat Treherbert A FORM OF MARRIED HAPPINESS. Jenkin Jenkins and Mary Jenkins, of Treher- bert, were put into the dock at Ystrad Police Court on Monday to answer a charge of being drunk and fighting on the highway at Treherbert on the 2nd inst. P.C. 23 proved the case. Mr T. P. Jenkins (to the female defendant): Who gave you that black eye? Defendant: My husband. Mr T. P. Jenkins: Did you not give him one back. Defendant: I did the last time. (Laughter). The magistrates fined the female defendant, who had previous -"onvictions gainst her, 10s., and bound her to keep the peace for six months. The male defendant was fined 5s, and bound over to keep the peace.

He or she who what good adore*, 8honld DBtmniw Harris, of Central Siorai; His irn.fj.3 pronsiona you'll attaa* ia i* UM> terj atMtpetf and the bosk. (341

I EDMUNDSTOWN, In the Coils of the Red-Tape Demon. After having for years sundered from being in the stifling grip of the demon i^feglect, the little village of Edmundstown is now lO the coils of the demon Red-Tape. It is not necessary for us to repeat the revolting details of the insanitary condition in which the village has been left, for everyone having a knowledge of the district knows full well that the Rhondda District Coun- cil and the Llantrisant Rural Council have been guilty of unpardonable indifference to the needs of the place. To their credit be it said, how- ever, directly the Rhondda Council fully realised the extreme gravity of the situation, they at once set themselves to the work of reform. Unfor- tunately, though, only a small portion of the village is in the urban district, so that the Rhondda Council at once saw that, on economic grounds, they could not go in for a very elab- orate sanitary scheme by themselves, and that it would be better to join hands with the rural authority. The Llantrisant Council from the very first, trer.ted the matter with a coolness and lack of interest which are totally inexpli- cable. and it was not until they had more than once bren reported to the County Council that they roused themselves into some semblance of activity. The result of the proceedings given the Council by the Medical Officer for the County the Medical Officer for the Rhondda, and other sanitarians, was that the inhabitants fondly an- ticipated that they were within reasonable dis- tance of deliverance. Not so, however, al- though a joint scheme has at last been agreed upon. In order to meet the expenses of their position of the work. the Llantrisant Council have applied to the Local Government Board for permission to raise a loan. When the Circum- locution Office will find time to attend to the request would he difficult to prophesy. In the meantime the people of Edmundstown must pos- sess their souls in patience, must murmur not if they have to witness more cases of "Death from Insanitation." At Friday's meeting of the Rhondda District Council—Mr Thomas Griffiths, J.P., presiding— the Clerk (Alderman W. H. Morgan) read the following letter from Dr Williams, Medical Officer to the. County Council; "I am in receipt of yours of yesterday's lat.e re the insanitary condition of Edmundstown. I will do my very best. to urge the Llantrisant Dis- trict Council to undertake the work without any further delay." After this was read the following letter from M. W. Spickett, clerk to the Llantrisant and Llantwit Vardre District Council: "In reply to your letter of the 3rd inst., this work will be proceeded with as soon as we re- ceive the sanction of the Local Government Board to borrow money to defray the cost of the works." The members thought it would be unwise on their part to remain waiting with folded arms until the official reply had been evolved from the official brain at White-hall, and they therefore directed the Clerk to write the Local Govern- ment Board pointing out that the Llantrisant authority laid the hlamo for the delay at the door of the Government office.

IPPDA'S WATER SUPPLY. The Willianlstown Conjplaiqt. ,^0r^an Morgan, secretary to the Ponty- pnad vv ater W orks Company, lias addressed the lollovvmg reply with reference to the complaints as to the unsatisfactory state of the water supply in iUid-Rhondda: "Replying to your letter of the 3rd inst., I beg to inform you that, owing to the drought the company have been obliged to limit tho supply of water for so many hours per day in each district, and as regards Williamstown, it being such a high district, it requires a con- siderable pressure to reach it-hence the reason of sending the water there during the evening. With regard to the quality of the water, I may say that two new filters have been constantly rt work for a considerable time, and a third has just been completed. The Council will at once perceive that the necessity of constantlv dis- turbing the flow of water render it occasionally turbid when first turned, but this turbidity very soon disappears. When the new works are com- pleted aU these difficulties will be removed." The letter was read by the Clerk (Alderman W. H. Morgan) at Friday's meeting of the Rhondda District Council. Dr W. E. Thomas: When did they find the drought? The Clerk: I don't know.

Rtiondda's New Park. THE GENEROUS GIFT OF THE BAILEY'S ESTATE. DEPUTATION WAITS UPON THE COUNCIL. At a meeting of the Rhondda Urban District Council on Friday, Mr T. J.P., M.E. presiding, a letter was read from the solicitors to Mrs Gordon Canning and Mrs Curre, the owners of the estate of the late Mr Crawshay Bailev stating that they would be prepared to give about 25 acres of land at Ystrad for a Pub- lic Park. The conditions were read. The Chairman was of opinion that the whole Council should first see. the site before agreeing to any terms. Mr W. D. Wight: I don't think we would be dealing fairly with the gift by so doing. Mr J. Thomas moved that the Council meeb on the si, the following Wednesday, and this was unanimously agreed to. A strong deputation from the Chamber of Trade afterwards waited upon the Council. Lieut. R. C. Dyke, the spokesman, said that they represented the Chamber of Trade. As the Council was aware, the last time the depu- tation visited them, they were asked if they had any definite scheme to place before tho Council with reference to the proposed park. The Council were then informed that the Cham- ber of Trade had not prepared a scheme, and the Council told the deputation, as it were, to call again. In the meantime a meeting of the Chamber of Trade was convened, and some < f the members were appointed to wait upon Mr Smith, of the Bailey estate, and ask for two sites He said he would place the matter before the trustees, and one day a deputation went up to the proposed site, which they considered a very suitable one. It was also very central for Treorky. They now made application to the Council to support them. They, as a Chamber, understood the difficult position the Council were placed in. They understood that those who lived in outside districts would not have the benefits, but they asked the Council to do so, on the grounds that the members of the Cham- ber of Trade would support the members of the District Council to get such a boon in other dis- tricts. From a health point of view an open space should be provided in the same way as good drains. It was very unsafe for children to go out now,' but they would be safe in a park. He considered the offer a very good one. He did not see why they should throw away such a gift. The Chairman: Well, we can inform you that this matter has been under the consideration of the Council to-day. The Clerk has received some correspondence from Mr Smith, who acts for the Bailev estate, and the arrangements we have come to is, that the members meet Mr Smith and some of you gentlemen next Wednes- day evening, after the arrival of the five o'clock train, on the site. Mr Dyke thanked the Council on behalf of the deputation.

A Ferndale Auctioneer Reported. DISCUSSION BY THE DISTRICT COUNCIL A matter which aroused considerable discus- sion at Friday's meeting of the Rhondda Dis- trict Council, was the following letter, received by the Clerk from Mr Hagar, of the Castle Theatre, Ferndale: "4, New Street, Ferndale. "Dear Sir,-You may not be aware that a Mr Williams, auctioneer, etc., is at present located in this town. He has one or two professional singers with him, who do musical hall "business." He also holds competitions, for which he givei prizes away. I need not tell you it is doing my business a reat deal of harm, and if, as I am. informed, he has no licence, it appears very un- fair to me, who have to pay for a licence and expensive company of ladies and gentlemen, ue- pendent upon the takings, which ha.ve materially decreased since this Mr Williams came to W1.e town. I am questioning that the person has all Uutloneor's licence; but I am informed I that he only takes out a musical licence periodi- cally, and makes that serve for all the towns he may visit, but I am informed that a musieal licence is—like my theatrical licence— granted iÕ cL Certain specified town, and is not available for travels about with. As this person charges for admissi>?-n; *^e certainly re- quires a licence. Tho shOp-keepere ave advised m« to report him. This person keeps ^'ri^a deal of money out of their pockets with autioneering business, and the feeling of the tradespeople of the district is so strong against him, that they arc meditating getting up a petition to have him removed for injuring the trades of the town. The same firm have a pre- cisely similar concern at Tylorstown, which stop? any money coming from there. There are tbrc- licences of the kind in this small town alreachv so I think the Council would hardly grant r other. I mentioned the matter to the sergæ Ii. of police here, who kindly referred me to you é < Clerk of the Urban District Council." The Clerk was of opinion that they should first caution this auctioneer. Mr W. D. Wight said that it was for the Council to find out whether he had a licence. Tht) Clerk: If he had no licence the polici-. should have reported him. We act for the County Council in these matters. Mr Moms Morris moved that the Clerk be instructed to write to the Superintendent of Police informing him of the matter. Mr J. Thomas having seconded this proposition was agreed to. It was also alleged during the discussion, that Mr Williams, the auctioneer, had erected a building without having submitted plans to the Council. By so doing he had transgressed cne of the Council's bye-laws with regard to the e tion of buildings. The Clerk was instructed to inform him of this, and, if necessary, to take proceedings against him.

Overcrowding at Cwmparc. PROSECUTION BY THE DISTRICT COUNCIL. Thomas Williams, of 118, Greenfield fetr(y;.s Cwmpark, was summoned at the Ystra Court on Monday—before Mr T. P. Jenkins iiiui Mr D. Thomas—under a section of the Pubiio Health Act, for overcrowding his house •>< h an extent as to be injurious to the health of Üw inmates thereof. The prosecution was conducted by Mr NichoT- son, solicitor, Pontpridd. on behalf of the RboJi- dda District Council. Mr .Williams, the District Council Samifry Inspector, stated that on the 10th of JuL. in company with the medical officer, vis.t- fendant's house. They asked defendant — company them upstairs. This he did. were three bedrooms upstairs. The frcn; room measured 12 feet by 12 by 8. This. den-n<ui:, said, was occupied by himself and his Wi!» Jo- aether with four children. The I was 12 feet by 7 by 8, and was occupied -six bovs. The oack room was 8 by 8 b" 8 f was occupied by three girls, ared 18, It. b years. Dr Herber Jones, the medical offic, Oviro'bo- rated this evidence and added that theiv ha.vo been 300 cubic feet of air allot ted tv ow-j* nprson. This space was considered the n.-inim^za* In this house there were 15 persons, while 1 utr4.t should have been but eight. Defendant stated that the family onh r•Ti- bered 12, The magistrates ordered the defendant' to pay the costs of the case. and to remedv the.- d J\; f Ur-ngs during tho ucxt zr.os.ih.