The County Echo

COMPANY MEETINGS. Fishguard Harbour Improvement Company. The annual general meeting of the share- holders of the Fishguard Harbour Improve- ment Company—which controlls Lower Town Harbour-was held in the Fishguard Town Hall on Thursday afternoon, when Mr John Rees, of Swansea, the Great Western Rail- way Company's Divisional Superintendent, presided in his capacity of Chairman of the Board of Directors, being supported by Mr T H Evans, of Bodmor, the secretary to the Company. The balance-sheet, which proved to be of a satisfactory character, there being a balance of f90 13s 3d in hand, was adopted. Lord Barrymore and Mr W Rees Carver, the retiring directors, were re-elected. Mr W H Fraser was re-elected as one of the auditors for the ensuing year. Mr John Rees was re-appointed as Chair- man of the Board of Directors, and on the proposition of Mr J C Bowen (Penrhiw), was cordially tnanked for past services.

—< +■ Fishguard Market House Company. Roofing Scheme Abandoned. Slaughter-House Repairs Completed Butchers to Bear the Cost. Attitude of Urban Council Criticised The annual statutory meeting of the Com- pany of Proprietors of the Market Place, Fishguard, was held in the Town Hall on Saturday afternoon, there being present the Rev. J T Griffiths, Vicar of Brawdy Dr. W O'Donnell, Medical Officer of Health and Messrs W George James, J.P., of Llysyronen (treasurer) W G James, J.P., of Panty- philip; Walter L Williams, C.C., T G Bennett, J.P., W Evans (of Tower Hill), and W D Lewis, together with the Clerk (Mr A J Hodges), and the architect (Mr J J Harries). On the motion of Mr Griffiths, seconded by Mr Evans, it was agreed to appoint Mr James (Llysyronen) as chairman of the meeting. THE FUTURE.. The Chairman said they were met that day under very favourable circumstances in many respects. (Hear, hear). They had, during the past year, made considerable alterations to the premises, and the revenue available for those alterations, although it had not yet come into the accounts, would do so during the coming year. He thought that the share- holders might feel quite satisfied that the revenue and interest on their shares next year would be fairly good. That, of course, de- pended upon what they intended carrying out that day, but he believed that there was a feeling that future improvements ought not to affect the revenue, and some hints had been given that, if any great improvements were to be effected, they should be done by means of a loan, the shareholders being paid every year a certain proportion on their share capi- tal. The reason for that was that the share- holders had, for years, been receiving no interest, simply because they had been carry- ing out both improvements and repairs out of revenue. AX ELABORATE SCHEME The next item on the agenda was the con- sideration of plans, specifications and esti- luates for the erection of a new roof over the central market. Plans, elevations, and sections of the scheme were produced by the architect and handed round for inspection. The estimate, as set forth upon the agenda, was as follows :—Taking down existing roof, re-building and pointing walls, providing and erecting roof, and painting same, r540 drainage and floor, £ 130; new doors, &c., £ 28 plastering and distempering, £32 IOS; httings, £ 66 fitting market with gas, £ 14 making a total of £ 180 10s. To this had to be added £ 7 10s for the preparation of the plans, whilst the architect' fees at five per cent. would amount to a further sum of £+0 Ios 6d, bringing the aggregate up to CS58 los 6d. OPTIMISTS AND PESSIMISTS. The Chairman pointed out that the Com- Panv's borrowing powers were limited by Act of Parliament to £500. Mr Griffiths Then we can't entertain this. The Chairman That is for you. to con- sider. Is there any estimate as to what would be the return upon the outlay ? Mr Evans said that, looking into the future he did not think that they would be risking very much. Assuming that the execution of the work cost a thousand pounds, the interest upon the sum would not, at the outside, amount to more than £ 40 a year, and he did not think that they had much reason to fear that their revenue would not increase to that extent once the place had been put in a pro- per state. Personally, he had no hesitation in'.facing the future. Mr Jackson said the Company could not charge more than at present. Mr Evans said complaints had been made by the stall-holders, and he thought that they would rather be outside than in. Mr Jackson said it was only throwing money away. If the market were roofed in it would be necessary to get a person to look after the place, and to light it, merely for children and young persons to walk to and fro in it. Mr Evans said he felt confident in the future of Fishguard. They could not get out of the fact that, day by day, Fishguard was becom- ing a centre, and to meet that advance they ought to move with the times. Unless they did so, they were bound to suffer as a con- cern. Mr Jackson reiterated that it was merely thro.wing good money away for other people. Mr Evans Well, you don't want strangers to do it. A QUESTION OF REVENUE. The Chairman said that, in order to have done with the feelings of the past, and so that they might be united in the future, it should be treated as an open question as to whether it were proper or not. Could any- one, he asked, point anything in the way of tangible revenue to assist them ? Mr Evans said that, had he known that it would be required, he would have taken the trouble to have gone into that matter. He expressed a desire to know what the gross approximate revenue had been during the last year. The Clerk replied that the Town Hall had brought in £ 19 2S od, including a sum of CS from the Petty Sessions, which would be in- creased to £ 20 in the coming year. Various rents from the shops and stalls had realised £ 51 10s gd, whilst tolls from the market house and slaughter-house had amounted to £ 120 us II td, the total receipts for the year being £ 191 4s 8 £ d. The Chairman said £50 was the amount at present derived from the part which it was proposed to cover. Mr James (Pantyphilip) remarked that this would have to be increased to a hundred if the scheme were to pay. The architect, in reply to a question, said the-existing stalls would have to be taken down if the market were roofed. The Clerk said the shops in the central fc market realised £ 18 3s od per annum, other small rentals bringing the total up to £ 19. Mr Williams said that they had thus rough- ly a sum equivalent to the interest on £ 500, which would be lost if the change were effected. The clerk said the tolls averaged about^o a year. The Chairman said the shareholders ought to know where was the additional revenue to pay for that outlay of a thousand pounds. There were improvements which ought to be carried out. The market had been neglected, as had also the collection of tolls in many respects, simply because the shareholders had not been unanimous. He did not care what was the decision, but he did beg of them to make an end of it that day one way or the other, at any rate for some period. ABSENTEES' ABORTIVE APPLICATION. Mr Evans pointed out that one gentleman who had taken some interest in the proposal was, unfortunately, unable to be present that day, and that there were many besides him who were similarly placed. He thought, he said, that, having gone to the expense of pre- paring plans, it was only fair and reasonable to suggest that, before they decided anything definitely, they should adjourn the general meeting. The Chairman said the annual general meeting had been called, and special notice had been given of the matter, which had been adjourned several times before, whilst the es- timates had been printed on the agenda. Mr Williams pointed out that there was no letter asking for an adjournment. I _n- Mr Evans said there were circumstances < which prevented those gentlemen from being present that day. The Chairman said they could easily have given somebody else proxies to vote on their behalf, as was the customary thing to do. He was very sorry, personally, that they had been unable to attend, and would have chan- ged the date had it been possible to do so, but it had not. Mr Evans expressed agreement with the chairman's reference to proxies, but contend- ed that it would be more satisfactory if those gentlemen were present, and argued that they would be in no way prejudiced by adjourning for a fortnight or a month, as they might think best. The Chairman said they had had meetings in the past and gone into the question, and that day's agenda had been sent out to the shareholders asking them to reach a decision that day. Mr Jackson expressed himself as being op- posed to an adjournment. Mr Evans asked if the plan had been con- sidered by any of the members. The Chairman replied that it had been considered by the committee. Asked if that body had made any report thereupon, he said that it simply handed the matter over to that meeting for consideration, without making any comment upon it. Mr Evans characterised it as rather absurd to go to such expense without the committee placing a report before the shareholders. The Chairman said the committee quite approved of the plans as far as it could see, they were correct. Mr Evans respectfully submitted that an adjournment would be the more satisfactory way of bringing that matter to an end, in which objective he was in accord with the chairman. Mr Williams said the matter had been pre- viously threshed out three or four years ago, and had now been under consideration for some six months. He pointed out that pre- vious meetings had not been adjourned be- cause of the absence of members. Mr Lewis said that it might not be con- venient for some of those present that day to attend an adjourned meeting. Dr. O'Donnell asked if it would not be better to adjourn the matter, so that it would not be brought up again. If the proposal were rejected that day there was nothing to prevent it being revived in another three years, if they did not previously hear the other side. Mr Bennett They ought to be here today. Mr Evans They can't. Mr Bennett I don't follow that. Mr Evans If you are summoned you must attend. He contended that proxies were very un- satisfactory, and declared that he did not think that Mr Bennett, himself, would be satisfied to vote by proxy. Mr Bennett moved and Mr Jackson second- ed a motion that the matter be settled that day. Mr Evans moved and Dr. O'Donnell seconded an amendment that the discussion be adjourned for a month. Upon a division being taken only the pro- poser and seconder supported the amendment, and the original motion was accordingly carried. The number of proxies held by those pres- ent having been individually declared, Mr Evans asserted that, whatever might be their number, an adjournment was only fair to those who were absent through no fault of their own. Mr Williams said he did not know that he had ever been considered when he had been absent. Mr Evans characterised the matter as one of vital importance. Mr Williams reiterated that it had been threshed out before. THE SCHEME REJECTED. The Chairman enquired whether or not the meeting was agreeable to carry out the scheme of roofing. Mr Jackson moved and Mr Griffiths second- ed, that it be not proceeded with. Mr Williams said that, provided it were shown to him that it would yeild a return of five per cent, he would be happy to support it, but he could not see at all where any in- creased revenue was to come from. Mr Bennett said he thought that that was the position of most of them. Mr Williams added that he would be satis- fied with five per cent, although some gentle- men who were prominently interested would not support the project unless there were a likelihood of seven or eight per cent being forthcoming. Mr Griffiths remarked that it was for those who advocated that change to show that it would result in increased revenue. Person- ally, he could not see ft. Mr Evans argued that, before the matter was put aside, a committee ought to have been appointed to consider what were the prospects of getting an increased revenue. Neither those in favour of, nor those against the proposition, had any to give in the way of information, and the wiser plan would be to get a sub-committee to report. Mr James (Pantyphilip) Can't you, your- self, give us, some inkling ? Mr Evans: Personally, I base my inclina- tion to favour it as I have such faith in the future. Mr Jackson It doesn't matter as long as we get the money. Mr Williams said there was nothing to prevent outsiders from forming a company for the purpose of iloating a similar scheme. The Chairman said there was an Urban Council: would not it be prepared, he asked, to buy the shareholders out. Mr Evans characterised the suggestion as being not a bad idea." He was proceeding to refer to complaints made during the last month by stall-holders, when the Chairman said he did not think that he could go into that question unless he could quote a concrete case of complaint. Mr Evans asked if there had not been a letter sent. The Clerk said he had received a petition. Mr Evans: Then we are dealing with that now. The Chairman: Certainly. Proceeding, he said the petition was simply a document favourable to the movement of the promoters of that scheme. All those com- plaints had cropped up only at the present moment. He had been chairman and honor- ary treasurer for ten or twelve years, and, during the whole of that period up to about a month, or six weeks ago, there had not been a single complaint. Was not it, he asked, very strange that those complaints and those grievances should occur just at the present moment, more than in the past ? Mr Evans, speaking as a new shareholder said he had never heard an insinuation that the complaint at the last meeting had been got up for the purpose. The Chairman No-one said that. Please don't put it in that form. I said we have had no complaint in regard to the condition of the Market House for the last thirteen years, until the last few months. Mr Evans: I don't know whether you in- tended it, but you made it out to be so. I know nothing of it. He added that if that proposal were rejected nothing would be done to remedy the condition of the floor. The Chairman said that very possibly the committee, who were the managers, would go into the question. Mr Bennett said it was not necessary to spend a thousand pounds in order to remedy a few pools of water. Mr Griffiths said it came within the scheme. Mr Lewis said that the petitioners had known that the shareholders were considering the matter, and had taken advantage of the opportunity, for which he did not blame them. The shareholders must, however, look after their dividends. Mr Williams said the premises were very extensive, and required a large amount of repairs. They could not spend all in one year, and during the last few years the ex- penses had been astounding. Since the Chairman had taken office the market had done very well, aifd they could not do better than continue as at present. The motion rejecting the proposal was carried, the chairman describing the voting as having been fairly unanimous. A MODIFIED SCHEME. There also appeared on the agenda a modi- fied scheme providing for extending the pres- ent roofs in the centre market, repairing the lloor, placing the drains in order, and provid- ing a new door at the corn market, at an estimated total cost of £ 45. The Chairman suggested that, at its next meeting, the committee should reconsider what was really necessary to be done, and that the matter be adjourned in the mean- while. Mr Williams moved, Mr Lewis seconded, and Mr Bennett supported a resolution, which was unanimously adopted, embodying this suggestion and endowing the committee with power to act without limitation as to the extent of the cost. FINANCIAL STATEMENT. The Clerk submitted the annual statement of account, which had been audited by Messrs Williams and Bennett, and from which it ap- peared that the year had commenced with a credit balance of £ 111 8s ol-d, which had been reduced during the twelve months to £ 38 18s 8d. Mr Griffiths remarked that they had had a large revenue, but were left with a very small balance. The proper way to do repairs was out of capital, and not out of revenue, as was at present the case, because under the latter system the shareholders every year lost their dividends. He supposed that the £45 which might be spent by the committee under the resolution just passed would also be taken out of revenue. The Chairman replied that it would unless there were some resolution to the contrary. He pointed out that the Company possessed no reserve fund. People said that they were making a lot of money, and were a very rich Company. They kept on paying a- fair rev- enue, but a certain amount ought to be placed to a reserve as a provision against loss, &c., and to meet outgoings. The Chairman remarked that nearly Cioo had been spent, out of revenue for improve- ments during the past year, but that it would not occur again. He further pointed out that a five per cent. dividend had been paid last year. Mr Lewis expressed the opinion that they might come to an end of their expenditure before long. URBAN COUNCIL'S LACK OF SYMPATHY CRITICISED The Chairman said that those connected with the undertaking were not considering the inter- ests of the town entirely, but in combination their own interests. The town itself, as far as its public authorities were concerned, had not shown that nice feeling towards the undertak- ing that they should have done. The Council had fought the Company upon the question of whether it had a right to collect tolls or not in the town. The Company had shown them the Act, and proved beyond question that it was entitled to take toll from every person who sold anything within the market area. That having been explained, the committee of the Urban Council had been convinced that the Company had proved its rights, vet it had not reported in any paper nor said one word that it had found out that Company was correct. That was a public company inside the Council's area carry- ing on a business, and if the Council harmed the Company it was harming itself, because it harmed the Company's ratepaying abilities. It was rather unfair that the Company should be burdened with opposition when it ought to be fupported. Therefore, he thought that it was full time that the shareholders should endeavour to do their best to carry the work on. He did not want to lose sight of the interests of the town, but they must take care of their own in- terests as well. The accounts were formally adopted, and it was decided, on the motion of Mr Lewis, sec- onded by Mr Jackson, to declare a dividend of 2s 6d per share. Mr Griffiths suggested that, thenceforth, any profits remaining after the payment of a five per cent dividend should be devoted to the creation of a reserve fund. PROSPECTS FOR THE FUTURE. Mr Evans moved, Mr Bennett seconded, and it was unanimously agreed to re-appoint Mr James (Llysyronen) as hon. treasurer for the en- ■ suing year. Mr James said he was pleased, under the pre- sent circumstances, to fall in with the proposi- tion and accept office, although, at the same time, there were some things connected with the affair which were not always pleasant, but he hoped that, for the future, matters would be carried on on more busrness lines, and that every one would take an interest in the Com- pany's affairs. It was a good business under- taking, and was improving with the town, but he thought that it was cautious, correct and right that they shoule not go before the town. They should wait until the town had developed to such an extent as to demand an outlay upon the building. Recently, whilst in the Shire Hall( he had been consulted by the Standing Joint Committee of the County Council which had agreed that the shareholders of that Com- pany could not be expected to take less rent for the use of the Hall as a sessions court than they at present charged. At the same time, how- ever, the Committee had pointed out that, in the near future, th ere would be a sessions house built at andthesessionsmoved to Goodwick Nevertheless, the Chairman pointed out, this would be a matter for the local justices to de- cide, and it must be borne in mind that Good- wick was only one side of the area, whereas Fishguard occupied a central position. If, however, the Hall were retained, the share- holders would have to build a retiring-room. Mr Evaus Hear, hear I think it is abso- lutely essential. The Chairman said he was very glad that Mr Evans did think so, adding that, if they con- sidered those things which were essential, he thought that that little business could be made a great success, and when any gentleman could show a way to increase their revenue the share- holders would be very foolish if they did not adopt it. MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS. On the motion of Mr Jackson, seconded by Mr James (Pantyphillip), the auditors (Messrs T G Bennett and W R Williams) were re-elec- ted. The Chairman in presenting an account of £ 5 ns iod in respect of income tax, said that every improvement which the Company execu- ted was treated by the authorities as an addi- tion to its capital, and consequently increased the amount of the assessment. Mr Jackson pointed out that the authorities did not allow for all that the Company lost through failure to collect toll's—a, loss aggre- gating between £ 20 and £ 30 a year1. The Chairman endorsed Mr Jackson's re- marks, and it was decided, on the motion of Mr James (Pantyphilip), seconded by Mr Griffiths, that the committee be requested to take steps to put the matter in form. THE SLAUGHTER-HOUSE. I The Chairman said they had had a complaint with regard to the Slaughter-house from the Urban Council, and there had been a minimum amount of requirements demanded by the Medical Officer of Health, which they had carried out. The Medical Officer was present, aqd he did not refer to him personally, but he desired to know if it were the shareholders' wish that he should get from him a certificate that these requirements had been fulfilled. Mr Evans It would be on record then. Mr Williams: Particularly after the last de- bate in the Council Chamber. Mr James (Pantyphilip) Is it in a satisfac- tory state now ? Dr. O'Donnell I don't know whether the floor has been finished or not. The Clerk Yes it has, and been paid fcr- 2s lid it cost-(Iau-hter)-for cement and time. The Chairman (to Dr. O'Donnell) Can we expect a report of that kind from you ? The Dr. Yes. I On the suggestion of Mr Evans, it was deci- ded that a formal request be made to the Coun- cil for a certificate to the effect that its require- ments had been complied with. PAYING THE PIPER. The Chairman announced that the commit- tee recommended that the tolls levied in the slaughter-house be increased from is 6d to 2s in respect to beasts, and from 2d to, 3d in respect of sheep and pigs. After the improvements which the Company had been obliged to carry out, together with the introduction of the town supply of water, the Committee had felt that the shareholders would not be justified in that thing without having some extra revenue to put against it, and he thought that the feeling was that, if the butchers refused to pay it, the slaughter-house should be closed. Mr Jackson Yes, that was it. Mr Evans suggested thaf, before taking that extreme step, some means ought to be adopted of coming to some amicable settlement. The Chairman replied that that would be done the Company was only stating its pow- ers. The Doctor had once threatened to close the building and -the committee could have allowed that to take effect had it so chosen. He added that they were losing Y12 a year as a result of the substitution of a water supply from the well, and at present the butchers were contributing nothing towards that expense. The proposal was agreed to, and it was di- rected that the revised tolls should come into operation on February 1st. It was decided that the committee should re- consider the terms upon which the collector was at present employed. The proceedings terminated with a cordial vote of thanks to the Chairman, which was passed upon the initiative of Mr Jackson.

Mr Sam Thomson, a Conservative working- ing who took a prominent part locally in the bye-election in 1908, has been beaten by Sir J H Roberts in West Denbighshire by a majority of 3,025 votes. The rapidity with which news is 'today dis- seminated by the Press is a never-failing source of wonder to The Man in the Street." As recently as two years ago the North Pem- brokeshire Farmers' Club appointed Mr R Chambers, of Glynymel, Fishguard, as its president, and, incredible, as it may appear, the fact was actually chronicled last week in a South County journal.

Fancy Dress Ball. Successful Fishguard Function. One of the most successful social functions ever held in the locality took place in the Temperance Hall on Wednesday night last week, assuming the form of a fancy dress ball. The event owed its origin to Mrs A J Hodges and a number of other ladies, and its success to a committee of organisation con- sisting of Mrs Hodges, Mrs Jenkins, Mr and Miss Monk, and Messrs W Bateman, J S Thomas, B.A., and R E Williams the last- named of whom efficiently discharged the duties of honorary secretary. The spacious hall in its new guise, .fresh from the hands of the renovators, presented an extremely attractive spectacle, the general effect being greatly enhanced by pendant flags, streamers of bunting, and other gay decorative devices. Mr Owen Gledhill, B.Sc. tactfully dis- charged the duties of Master of Ceremonies, whilst an admirably-diversified programme of dance music was provided by Mr A J Hodges, who was assisted by Mrs Eccles, A.L.C.M., Miss Lowry, B.A., and Mrs T Perkins, Hendrewen Close upon a hundred devotees of the Ter- psichorean art put in an' appearance, and when dancing was in full swing the spectacle presented by the gaily-dressed throng was one I of sparkling animation and striking pictur- esqueness. Ccjnsiderable taste and ingenuity had been exercised in the choice and design of dressess, and Mrs W O'Donnel experienced great difficulty in making her adjudication upon their relative merits. The march past was an interesting and attractive feature of the proceedings, and shortly after its termination the awards were announced by Dr O'Donnel, the prize winners being Mrs A J Hodges, and Mr George Bennett respectively. The former was pic- turesquely attired as the Mexican Lady in The Merry Widow,' whilst the latter was an ideal Mephistophiles.' Both the winning costumes were supplied by Messrs H and M Rayne, of the Theatrical Stores, Waterloo- road, London. The formal presentation of the awards having taken place, Mrs O'Donnel was cordi- ally thanked, on the motion of Mr George Benneit, seconded by Mr R E Williams, for her services, the doctor briefly responding on on his wife's behalf. The costumes in general were of such ex- cellence that comparisons would be invidious. Suffice it to say that amongst others who at- tracted attention were Miss Jenkins,'Zingari,' Miss Roberts, Mrs Siddons'; Miss Daisy Reynolds, Gipsy' Mrs Stephens, Halleys Comet'; Miss Lily Williams, Bo-peep'; Miss Mork,' Dawn Mr Leo Sharp,' Mata- dor Mr R E Williams, Judge Mr H Gordon,' M le Marquis from 4 Les cloches de Corneille' Mr N Peregrine, 'Toreador' Mr G Bateman, Courtier of George V Miss Doris Richards,' Robin Hood'; Miss Jenkins, Watteau Shepherdess Mr F W Byrne, Mon ami, Pierrot'; Mrs 0 Gledhill,' Night'; Mr J W Jackson,'Coastguard'; Miss Rees, Rou- ge-et-noir' Miss Williams, Country Maiden Mrs Morgan, Eastern Princess Mr Morgan, Jack Tar Miss Burnnand, Pierette Miss Devonald (Letterston), Dame Wales Miss Lowry, Baby and Miss Edith Williams, Forget-me-not.' The foregoing list i. necessarily incomplete, and we shall be pleased to publish a supple- mentary one next week, should the requisite particulars be forthcoming. During the course of the evening a recherche supper was served upon the spacious new stage, the arrange- ments being in the hands of an assidu- ous band of ladies consisting of Mrs Hodges, Mrs Burnnand Mrs Monk, Mrs W Evans, (Tower Hill) Mrs J Richards, Miss Wilcox, and the Misses Monk and Jenkins. The proceedings, which were throughout of an exceedingly enjoyable character, were protracted until the advent of the early hours of the morning, and at the close Mr E W Rees proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the organisers, to the ladies who had been responsible for the catering, and to Mr Gled- hill, which was enthusiastically accorded. Mr Hodges proposed a similar compliment to Mr R E Williams, and this, having been carried with acclamation, was suitably ack- nowledged by the hon. sec. The financial proceeds, which realised a considerable amount, will be devoted towards defraying the cost of public improvements.

CUNARD CHATTER." When to See the Boats. For the benefit of such of the public as are desirous of witnessing the arrival of Cunard liners, but are at present being misled by grossly inaccurate programmes in which neither the day nor the hour is correctly stated, we publish below the approximate times at which the vessels are officially ex- pected, weather and other circumstances per- mitting. The figures, which are authorative, and therefore quite reliable, are as follow :— Boat. Date. Hour. Umbria Feb 10 1 a.m. Mauretania "If 5 P-m- Campania „ 23 3 a.m. Umbria Mar. 3 1 a.m. When Captain Pritchard bade farewell to his former charge, the Mauretania, he was presented by the stewards with a gold watch, a walking-stick, and an illuminated address. The latter was designed and executed by a steward. The Mauretania, having been fitted with two new propellars, which are expected to greatly accellerate her speed, sailed from Liverpool on Saturday, Capt. Turner, who has hitherto commanded the Lusitania, being on the bridge. The Booth liner Hilary is expected on Wed- nesday, the 23rd instant. The steam suction dredger No. 5, belong- ing to the Mersey Docks and Harbour Board is engaged in deepening the channel within the precints of the harbour. This fact has given rise to a revival of the statement that preparations are afoot for enabling the Cunard liners to berth alongside the Ocean Quay. We have previously had occasion to expose editorially the fallacy of this assertion, yet on Monday the South Wales Daily News "-which is noted for the eccentricity of its announcements concerning Fishguard —gravely declared it to be a fact A similar statement appeared in the "Daily Mail on Tuesday, and there is every proba- bility that, as was the case on a previous occa- sion, the grotesque fiction will go the com- plete round of the Press. The Campania called at Fishguard in the early hours of this (Wednesday) morning, and landed 120 passengers and 1,250 sacks of mails. Shortly afterwards the Booth liner Ambrose" also utilised the port for de- barkation purposes. The marriage arranged between Mr Robert Vernon Harcourt, M.P., and Miss Margorie Cunard, which was recently announced in these columns, will not take place.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We wish it to be clearly understood that we do not in any way hold ourselves responsible for the opinions expressed in correspond- ence appearing under the above heading. ED.

The Kecent Lecture: An Explanation [ To the Editor of the County Echo." Sir,—Kindly grant me sufficient space in your columns to remove a misconception which appears to be somewhat prevalent. Whilst it is true that the initial steps towards obtaining a hall and lantern for Mr Beynon's recent lecture were taken by myself, circum- stances (for which Mr Beynon was in no wise responsible) necessitated the severance of my connection with the function. Hence, it is in no way my fault that no balance-sheet has yet been forthcoming, and I shall be greatly obliged if inquisitive individuals will apply elsewhere for information which I am quite unable to supply.—Yours, &c., I S. H. RICHARDS SCALES

MILLINERY BUSINESS FOR DIS- POSAL, first-class connection, central situation, suitable for young lady.—Particu- lars may be had of A. J. HODGES, A.A.I., Town Hall, Fishguard.

FARTHIING DAMAGES AND INJUNCTION. Verdict in Lianstinan Case, (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4.) John Price, carman, 63 years of age, was the first witness examined on Tuesday. He had been in service when a boy with the Rev Mr Barham, of Trecwn, having been a groom in the stables, and having every day to take the letter bag from Trecwn to Llanstinan Lodge. He went both ways, but usually by Frourhydd Fach. He never used the lower road except to fetch letters. Once when on the road by Llanstinan Lodge witness met Mr Bowen, and knowing he was on a private road apologised, and Mr Bowen said Any time to you.' He never found the gate at Fronrhydd Fach locked. Margaret Davies, wife of David Davies aged 48 years, said she went to Lecterst-on and Trecwn. She used to fetch tbe children from N antgwyn, and she had never been stopped on the road. She used to go with her mother to the services at Fronrhydd by the road past Llanstinan Lodge. Cross-examined: She did not know if the farmers bringing mares to her husband's entire horse brought them through the Lodge-gate. David Bonvonni, master of Barham School for about 4 years, said that during that time he had used the gate through Llanstinan Lodge once, but was stopped by a woman who said it was a private road, and he turned back and went out by Bengal. Mr Thomas: Do you live on Mr Barham's properly ?—Certainly not. You are very glad you don't live on the present Mr Barham's property. You and he are not friends ?—We are the best of friends. Did he prosecute your son for poaching ?— He did not. Did the gamekeeperJ-Tbe gamekeeper did, but what has that to do with it. I appeal to his lordship that the question is irrelevant. His Lordship It is quite relevant. Witness: The gamekeeper did prosecute him. Mr Thomas and of course unjustly ?- Yes unjustly. Did he succeed in convicting him — He did. Still unjustly. Did that make you particu- lariy frierdly with Mr Barham ?—We are not bad friends. Fortunately or unfortunately you have been able to give evidence against Mr Barham in another case? -.NLo, sir, I don't think I have. Was there not something about some sheep in this court two or three years ago ?—There might have been. Did you give evidence against him on be- half of a Mr Hughes ?—If you were not so con- fused in asking your questions I might be able to answer them. Come, sir, answer the questions, and don't be so anxious in trying to convince us that you are clever. (Laughter). Hive you ever had the misfortune to give evidence against him ?—No misfortune whatever. Well good fortune then ?—You can put it as you like, but I have done justice fn the matter.- Have you given evidence in any other case against him or his tenants?—I may have done so. Refer me to the special case. No, I won't; it will do for me that you don't remember.—I have given evidence, but not against Mr Barham personally. You and your son have been rather fortunate as you would call it in giving evidence against Mr Barham. Was your son summoned by a tenant of Mr Barham as well ?—He was. What was that for?—My son was not sum- moned. That is a mistake. It was myself that was summoned. For what ?—Alleged trespass, not proven. (Laughter. Was it dismissed ?--It was. And you are quite on friendly terms with Mr Barham ?- Yes. I am sure you are. (Laughter). Witness further said, in answer to questions, that in one place there were the remains of a road.—"A man with discretion might find ouo out." (Laughter). Did you find it out ?-No. So you had not sufficient discretion to find out whether there was a road or not?--Per- haps not. Was there a road from the bridge up to the gate ?—1 should say there was no road. Have you ever seen the ordnance survey map of the place ?—Yes. And the surveyors had sufficient discretion to see a road?—They might have seen it. But they were men of discretion- (laughter) —and they did not try to be too clever. Other evidence followed. Mr Saukey contended that those who had used the road past Llanstinan had done so by tho goodwill and leave of the landlord, and not adversely and against his will. They were not dealing with the road as a public right of way but as a right of way for the ten- ants of the estates. Was it likely that the landlord was going to prevent his tenants using the road in visiting each other as they had been used to doing ? People using the road in going to services at Fronrhydd went in company with the lodge-keeper, and was it likely tha,t she would stop them ? Mr Abel Thomas contended that as the road had been used openly for the last 40 years by tenants they might presume that they had a grant of right to use it as a public road. He contended that the landlords had on several occasions tried so prevent the ten- nants using this road but had failed. It was quite obvious from the evidence that the land- lord would have stopped them using the road if he could. His Lordship said the way in which the law said juries might presume a grant was by proof of uninterrupted use for a period of 20 years before action is brought. What was the excise of an uninterrupted use? First of all, the use must be exercised notoriously, openly you must not sneak along by night or'when nobody was looking-that would not be any evidence of notorious user. Next it must be exercised adversely-that was to say, not by indulgence, not by leave or license, not trad- ing on good nature, but in the bold and un- compromising assertion of the right, Next, the user must be to the knowledge, express or implied, of the owner of the laud traversed or of his servants, and finally, it must be ex- ercised continuously. There must be no obvious period during which the exercise of it was dropped except that the people did not want to use it, but if it had been abandoned or dropped continuously, steadily for a period of a year, and that year acquiesced in, that was an interruption and one could not say that he had uninterrupted use. The plaintifls had goc to make out their case They were asserting this right and the affir- mative proof was upon them. If the jury found a verdict for the plaintiffs it should as- sess the damages, but in his opinion damage was infinitesimal, the real point being the assertion of the right claimed. After two and a half hour's consultation, the jury found a verdict for the plaintiff with a farthing damages, Judgement was entered accordingly, grant- ing the right of way, and an injunction pre- venting the defendant from obstructing it. The defendant will also have to pay the costs, which are expected to be about £1,000 o CORRECTION. Mr Percy H Webb, solicitor, London, in- structed counsel for defendant, and not Messrs Eaton Evans and Williams, as incorrectly stated on page 4.

A meeting of stewards and patrons of Pem- broke Races was held at the Lion Hotel, Pembroke, on Saturday afternoon, and it was decided to hold the annual meeting on April 7th. Five events were arranged. Mr W W Peacock was appointed hon. secretary in place of Mr George R Young, who resigned. The Celtic Association has decided to post- pone its next congress for a year. It had been hoped to hold one in Brussels during the Exhibition but it would have been necessary to pre-engage accommodation at a quite pro- hibitive cost six months beforeliand, and even then to have run the risk of spoiling the festival and straining the good offices of the Union Celtique." By this change of plans the road is left open for the visit of the con- gress to Brittany, which is the natural next stage in its orbit, as first contemplated.

| Last few Days of Sale. fThe Remnants and Oddments Accumulated during our January Sale will be sold for the next 14 Days, with other Striking Bargains. Don't fail to give us a, call. It is the best opportunity you have ever had of securing REALLY FIRST-CLASS DRAPERY GOODS At almost less than Cost Price. Llewellyn George, GommePce ponge, We$È-$č" Fighpfd.

I THOMAS DAVIES, mariner, of Parrog, 9 Newport (Pem.), hereby give notice that I will not be responsible for any debt or debts contracted bv my wife, Mary Hannah Davies, after this date. (Signed) TIIOMAS DAVIES. ist Feb., 1910. SPRING CLEANERS will do well to visit Fountain House, Newport, to inspect the splendid stock of Wall-Papers just arrived. All new goods and this season's designing, will be offered at the very lowest prices. Vaccination.—Erom a return of vaccina- tion for the last half year from Newport dis- trict it appears the number of births were 50 successfully vaccinated, 41 dead unvaccin- ated, 5 number of conscientious objections 4- Wedding.—Oa the 25th ult at the Regis- trars' Office, Cardigan, in the presence of the Registrar, the nuptials were celebrated of Mr Daniel Davies, Pengawse, Newport, and Miss Catherine Evans, Pensalltfach, Llanh- angel-Penbedw. Appointmeut.—Sir Mariteine Lloyd, Bart. has been unanimously appointed chairman of the Newcastle Emiyn bench of magistrates in succession to the late Mr A H Jones, of Penrailt. Funeral.—The interment took place in the parish churchyard, on Wednesday of last week, of the remains of the late Master John Brown Thomas, son of Mr William Thomas, of Greystone House, whose untimely demise we chronicled in our last issue. The Rector (Rev. D G Phillips) oilictated in the house, at the churcn, and at the graveside, the spectacle at the committal being one which will linger long in the memories of those who participa- ted in the mournful ceremony. Deep snow covered the ground, adding a weird effect to the large assembly of mourners and sympa- thisers, included amongst whom were the children of the Council School, and the mem- bers of the local branch of the Order of Rechabltes, of which the deceased had been a member. A large number of floral tributes testified to the esteem in which he had been held. At the close of the service "The Christian's farewell" was touchingly sung by the assembled children. A Record.—Mrs Margretta Howells, who is resigning the position of cleaner of the schools, has discharged the duties of that office for the past 22 years, during the whole of which period she has never experienced a single day's illness, nor once been absent. Maritime Matters.—On Saturday, Mr Fred Howells, of Long-street, left for North Shields in order to rejoint the s s. "Azov" (Capt. Thomas), which is a new screw steamer of 15,560 tons burden, built by Smith's Dry Dock Co., of North Shields. She sails from the Albert Edward Dock for Calio, her first officer being Mr Willie Richards, of Hillstone House, Parrog.—Mr Willie Davies, of Dan- dre, left for Cardiff on Monday, in order to rejoin the s s. Savannah (Capt. James), of 8,700 tons' burden.

HAVE YOU FRIENDS OVER IN PEMBROKE DOCK ? Those of our readers who have friends over in Pembroke Dock will read the following item with great interest. It forms one of the, topics amongst our Pembroke Dock neigh- bours. Mrs A Rogers, of 54, High-street, Pembroke Dock, says :—" I had pains across the small of my back, which used to attack me so suddenly that it was only with difficulty that I was able to get up after stopping. At times I was so dizzy that everything seemed to be swimming around me, and I was forced to rent for a while. At nights my sleep was disturbed I felt quite out of sorts. Hearing good accounts of Doan s back- ache kidney pills I obtained a -box, and as this medicine gave me relief I purchased another box, which made a complete cure. I never suffer with backache or giddiness now, but if ever I should do so I would again use Doan's backache kidney pills, for I have great faith in them." (Signed) Alice Rogers. Doan's backache kidney pills are two shil- lings and ninepence per box, or six boxes for thirteen shillings and ninepence. Of all chemists and stores, or post free direct from the Foster McClellan Co., 8, Wells-street, Oxford-street, London, W. Be sure you get the same kind of pills as Mrs Rogers had.

DINAS CROSS. SPRING CLEANERS will do well to visit Fountain House, Newport, to inspect the splendid stock of Wall-Papers just arrived. All new goods and this season's designing, will be offered at the very lowest prices. Alleged Assault.—Some remarkable evi- dence was given at the Fishguard Police Court on Saturday and Tuesday when a charge of assaulting his foster fa'ther and threatening his foster mother, was preferred against Ivor Hail Jones, a well-known resi- dent of Dinas Cross. A fulll report of the judicial proceedings will be found in another column of this issue. Astronomical.—The comet has been seen by quite a ndmber of Dinasites, and has aroused a great deal of interest locally. Election.—Nowhere was the result of the recent Parliamentary contest for the repre- sentation of the county better celebrated than at Penwenol, the residence of Mr W George, which was prettily illuminated, whilst a huge bonfire added to the festive appearanee of the grounds. Illness.—We regret to learn of the some- what serious illness of Mr Bennett, Castle Hill.—The Rev J W Maurice was confined to his bed on Sunday, and, as a consequence, prayer meetings were at Tabor, substituted for the customary services. We are gratified to learn that the rev. gentleman is now about again. Maritime.—The sailing ship Eudora,' under the command of Capt D George, of Angorfa, arrived at Hamburg 011 Monday from the West Coast of Chili. In and Out of Town.—Mr J Phillips, of Yetybontbren, has arrived home.—On Friday Mr J J Harries, of Castle terrace, left for Liverpool, in order to join as second officer the Houston liner 'Honorious."—O11 Tuesday Mr David Harries, of Soar Hill, left for Barry, in order to join the s.s. King Howell.' Concert.—On Friday evening an excellent concert programme was submitted in the Council School to an audience the dimensions of which were extremely satisfactory in view of the rough state of the weather. Capt. T James, J.P., C.C., of Glanteg, presided, and Miss Dtew discharged the duties of accom- panist. The programme, which opened with a well-executed pianoforte solo by Christiana John, embraced the following items :Recita- tions, Gretta Williams, Myrtle Williams, G Jones, Tommy Green, John Mendus, Willie Mendus, Elwyn Jenkins, Auronwv Evans, Tyfv Evans, Harry Calder, George Thomas, Ernest Evans, Campbell Bennett, William Davies, D 0 Llewelyn, John Rees, Carey Johns, James Thomas, W J Thomas, Archie Llewelyn, W S I Thomas, Enid Evans, Edgar Jenkins, James B Jones, Martha A Harris, John J Evans, Morgan George and Mr T G Rees solos, E Rowlands, Sarah A Thomas, Martha A Harris, Miss M A Howell, Miss Francis, Messrs D A John, T G Rees, T D Maurice: duets, Messrs T G Rees and T D Maurice, and Misses M and M Francis; chorus, Last Rose of Summer," children.

NEW YEAR RE-UNION. Pembrokeshire Mea in London. On Saturday the members of the Pembroke County Club attended in large numbers their annual New Year re-union held at Head- quarters, the Council-chamber of the Holborn Restaurant. The Chairman of the evening was Mr A Clifton Kelway, F.R.Hist.S., Editor of Goodwill." As is usual at these county meetings, there floated over the Chair- mall's throne the club's large banner em- blazoned with the motto Loyal to Pem- broke," w^hile on the high table stood county bannerettes—splendid examples of artistic embroidery and emblematical of several county towns. The concert itself was under the direction of Mr P S Mason, a genial and typical Pembrokian, who has for years rendered yeoraan service to the club in musical matters,and whose smiling enthusiasm. has always indicated that there would be an excellent programme. Considered as as assembly of the Anglo- Flemish race" this re-union easily beat the record of its predecessors for bonhomie and joviality. The only regret of the Company was that the popular Chairman of Committee (Mr G A James-Pollen) was unavoidably pre- vented from being present. Among the assembly were representatives of every part of the Premier County, including Messrs W H Allen, Haverfordwest Griffith Evans, Pen- ffordd J H Griffiths, Lawrenny H G Griffiths, Saundersfoot T Williams, New- port J G W Barker, Eglwyswrw 0 Flutter Griffiths, Pembroke W H Savage, Tenby Ronald Francis, Tom Mathias, Neyland Tom Morns, J H Anderson, Harry Thomas, J M Robertson, W G Mathews, Inland Revenue W H Sanders, T W Ornnston, P 0 Bonniwell, Ben Thomas, Admiraltv. The conversation of friends revealed the fact that some few had just returned from a Christmas visit to the fair grey hills of their native shirs and the hurrahs in response to Mr Kelway s speech proved the truth of the judgment of a recent traveller, who in his published des- cription of his tour through Pembrokeshire, wrote that it was the Unique County "— A land unto itself, which of the other counties excels them all." The members of the County Club celebrating the New Year in London at their club house last Saturday showed themselves the sturdy sons of a sturdy race, accompanied, too, by daughters of the mountains and fair women of the valleys. The north county members could be heard enthusing familiarly over the Mont Angelorm of their beloved Carningli, and mingling therewith many a native reference From Cilgenan's ruined stronghold From Boncath's fair domain From where Newport's old-tims Castle Frowns o'er the Westward main From the peaks where the tall Cwmcerwyn 8 On Preselly's range looks down From the black hills of Llanfvrnach, And from Narberth's ancient town. From the fair cliffs where Tenby lifts Her beauty 'bove the waves From Manorbier's famed Castle, And from Lydstep's wondrous Caves; From old Pembroke's crumbling bulwarks From Stackpole's mere and lea From Angle's sandy burrows And from Milford's inland sea. Greybeards loquated with loyal feeling of Peninglas, Treffgarn Owen and Castlemartm as they espied friends passing along the salon's foyer, friends who were Sons of the Storm from St Gowan's Head or natives of the Cleddau Valley.. Ah, this Pembrokeshire Company showed the lusty freshmen and buxom lasses from the land of Dyfed. Possibly, some ladies might have been descendants of the heroines of Goodwick Bay, who paraded to that French Invasion on Pencaer. But of all it could be said that they were pilgrims joining happy memories of the Homeland—the sweet land of their fathers, so far away. All had met once again at the threshold of 1910 to com- memorate the passing of another milestone down the Corridor of Time to honour and celebrate Pembrokeshire, hand to hand and heart to heart in the inspiration of their own National Hymn. The ever-courteous librarian, Mr A Macken, and Assistant Secretary Mr Evan J Evans, did much for the comfort and arrangement of those attending. It must be mentioned of the artists that their performances were of unusually good merit and evoked much appreciation. A Pem- brokeshire lady, Miss Mildred Macken, B.A., by her exquisite soprano singing, established her- self in the hearts of the audience, which greatly enjoyed the charm with which she rendered her songs. Miss Ella Allen (mezzo-soprano) and Miss Tina Martin are gifted vocalists who were also heard to advantage and drew admiring applause. A very popular later feature was "The Human Marionettes" performance bv Master Willie T 0 Bonnell, whose humorous ditties gave considerable pleasure. Taking advantage of the interval, Mr Fred Sanders (The Admiralty), vice-chairman of committee, announced that he had the pleasant duty of proposing a vote of thanks to Mr Kel- way for presiding. Musical honours having been accorded, Mr Kelway, in reply, urged members to be loyal to their club, and ex- pressed the delight which it gave him to be present, mentioning that it was twelve vears ago since he presided at a similar function. Unity among the county men, he declared, would ensure their club continuing an import- ant factor in the Welsh life of London.

BIRTHS. On January 20th, to Mr and Mrs W. R. Howell, 35 Finsbury Terrace, Swansea, a daughter. DEATHS. January 26th, at Vagwrlas, Fishguard, Mr E. B. Lewis, aged 25 years. January 29th, at Llanfartin, Fishguard, Mrs Peggy John, wife of Mr Dan John, at an 6 advanced age.

COAL.—Due to arrive, a cargo of the Best HOUSE COAL (North Wales). Early orders respectfully solicited. -Fra.-icis, Supply Stores, Fishguard.

Neither side in a general election has much reason to boast about its veracity, and the less said about the subject the better for all. Elections, as someone said, are not fought in the Palace of Truth. I Wales has twice previously returned two Conservatives to Parliament—in the elections 1 of 1880 and 1892.