The Carmarthen Journal and South Wales Weekly Advertiser

LEGISLATION FOR FISHERMEN. Although the fish supply of this country M a matter of the highest inportance, very 6* Rrac^cal assistance had been given to is in ustry until the present Government legislated upon it. Our local authorities, however, o not seem to have a very lively appreeia on o the interests of a large section « bo*"3- have beea so apathetic as to "Imost eg' taking any steps what- them in the fishery inw^ »Pon they are of hood of hundreds of their co„stituents as one of the sources ot the food sunnlv t this country. The present Government have done have done their share of the work, and it now only remains for our local fishermen to insist on their representatives extending to theit in- dustry that share of their serious attention and care which it undoubtedly deserves. Early in March next our fishermen, in common with the rest of the electorate, will have an opportunity of pushing forward their cause, elicit from their present representatives what they have done in the past, and they them- selves will be to blame if they do not return to power those persons only who have shown active sympathy with them, and who will pledge themselves in future to exercise a diligent and adequate supervision over the same. The trawler has been for years the peat and spoiler of the genuine fisherman. The evidence of scientific authorities proves that trawling on inshore waters has been the cause of the wholesale destruction of im- mature and young fish. The present Unionist Government, not considering the fisherman's interest beneath its notice, passed the Herring Fishery Act which was again supplemented by an amending Act the following year. Where these laws have been set in force justice has been done to the fisherman's in- terests. It may, perhaps, be worth while quoting the testimony on this point of a northern member, Dr. Clark, M.P., who, being a strong Gladstonian, cannot be suspected of any partiality for the present Administration. Addressing his constituents at Thurso the honourable gentleman said that the fishermen often received more generous support from the real Tories than from some of their so- called Liberals." This is but the bare truth as applied to any other section of the working- class population of this country, notably those employed in factories and mines. Proceed- ing, Dr. Clark said, in regard to trawling, they (the fishermen) had got a measure which would effectually prevent trawlers from destroying local fishermen's nets on fishing grounds within the three-mile limit." Dr. Clark, although a pronounced Radical, is as honest in his praise of Unionist legislation on behalf of our fishermen, as is Mr Plimsoll in regard to Conservative legislation for the better protection of the lives and properties of our mariners. Despite all the praiseworthy efforts of the present Government to improve the lot of those who earn their bread by the sweat of their brow we have representatives, on our local authorities, too indifferent to the interests of our industrial classes, or too bigotted to encourage and put in force legislation of vast importance to a large and increasing portion of our population. This is not as it should be, and the electorate should no longer tolerate this state of things. For the information of some that possibly may not know, we may add that the penalty for boats trawling within three miles of our shores is now JEIOO, or, in default, imprisonment for a term not exceeding sixty days. It is for our local authorities to be roused from their slumbers, provide adequate arrangements for the careful superintendence of the fisheries to make this Act as valuable a measure as any one passed by a Government distinguished by the number and scope of its measures directly bearing upon the material improvement of the conditions under which our industrial classes work out their daily existence.

CARMARTHEN FIRE BRIGADE. Through the dangerous instrumentality of recent fires that wrought considerable damage in the town and through the kind liberality .of Mr Thomas Thomas, of Well- field, who entertained the members at a banquet last Wednesday evening, as reported in another column, the Carmarthen Fire Brigade has of late come into more than ordinary prominence. The utility of such all institution is not only self-evident but cannot be gainsaid. Such being the case comment is set afloat and the question naturally resolves itself into an inquiry into the col- lective and individual capabilities of theÏorca as well as the adequateness of their apparatus. The men, latterly under the able captaincy of Brigadier Chief Constable Smith, have given ample evidence of their ability, cool- ness, self-possession, gallantry, and a marked devotion to duty under very trying circum- stances, and, with the apparatus they now have as well as the miserable bell that now apprises them of the outbreak of fire, they have proved themselves exceptionally prompt in mustering and directing their full strength against the ravages of the flames. Like other forces in small provincial towns the Carmarthen brigade is a voluntary institution, drawn more or less from the artisan class with a sprinkling of tradesmen. Save the kindness of an occasional friend and the niggardly aid of the Town Council now and then the Carmarthen Fire Brigade is lament- ably neglected with a result that their appliances are of the rudest and most elemen- tary character. There is no distinction in tone between the bell that is used as a Fire Bell and the bells of the National or Board schools. It has done indifferent service since the inception of the Brigade, and is so weak that the prompt summoning of the men is due more to the efforts of individual policemen and civilians, who are despatched hither and thither to acquaint and arouse the members of a conflagration than to the tolling of this bell. Messrs. Chandler and Mason have signified their readiness to supply the town with a perfect bell for the small sum of five pounds. If the Town Council cannot move in the matter, and ex- pend this sum on so necessary and primary an article we would advise the Brigade to start a subscription list forthwith. That their appeal will meet with the ready response of the burgesses of Carmarthen we have not the slightest doubt. Councillor D. E. Williams threw out a very happy suggestion at the banquet on Wednesday evening, which is worthy of more than a passing consideration. He counselled the starting of a benevolent fund for the aid and support of men and their families that may be temporarily or perman- ently disabled or injured in carrying out the arduous and dangerous work they have so nobly volunteered to undertake whenever the necessity arises. This fund, Mr Williams suggested, could be formed from subscriptions collected in the town and neighbourhood. That some such pr vision would be advisable, must be admitted, but the difficulty to be contended with is the reusing up of an apparently lethargic community to a lively appreciation of the services of so useful a force in their midst. Without this a sufficient fund cannot be forth- coming. Another mode of making such very desirable provision would be to insure each member in a well established and reliable Accident Assurance Company, the premium to be paid out of the fund proposed to be started in connection with the same. We commend the present very unsatisfactory state of the appliance, and the suggested mode of aisistin0, the members in cases of accidents to the kind and serious consideration of the public as well a. their duly^ elected repre- sentatives with the firm belief that something ought to be done.

SOCIETY AND PERSONAL. The Right Rev the Lord Bishop of St Davids, was 70 years of age on Saturday. The intelligence published some time ago that the Hon. Arthur Walsh, il.P. for Radnorshire, would not seek re-election, was officially conveyed to a public meeting held at Knighton on Monday afternoon. The hon. member expressed his regret, but private circumstances would not permit him to seek the suffrages of the Radnorshire electors. After the announcement the meeting discussed the matter at length, and in all probability Captain Russell Bailey, son of Sir Joseph Bailey, and Mr E. P. Millbank, of Bedale, Yorkshire (a legatee under the Duke of Cleveland's will) will be invited to give their views at a Conserva- tive meeting to be held shortly. Lady Victoria Lambton gave a most successful fancy dreas ball at Brownslade on Tuesday even- ing. All the arrangements were perfect, but we missed Mr Hulley's familiar face and spirited playing. There were a great many striking and original dresses. Lady Victoria appeared as Queen Matilda." She wore a yellow dregs very prettily decorated with precious stones, a gold belt, and a short cloak of red velvet trimmed with white fur. She carried a sceptre, and the dress suited her admirably. Miss Lambton looked very well as a h J apaoese Lady," and the dress was extremely well carried out. Mrs Mirehouse went as Mother Hubbard." The Hon. Misses Edwardea wore peasant costumes. Miss Samson looked very nice as "Ice" in a white dress, and wearing a veil covered with sparkling beads and flakes of snow. Her hair was "poudre" Miss A.badam went as Mary Seaton" in a white court dress of the time of Mary Queen of Scots, with a high collar. Miss Gladys Booker appeared as a Spanish peasant, and her sister as a Lady of the Court of Louis XVI.' Mrs Saurin's absence, through illness, was much regretted. A mnnffftf; thft franflaman tha ni Aof. O 0~w 'L.I.V .u. striking costume was Col. Lambton's, who was dressed as a French cook, and caused much amuse- ment by occasionally handing round confectionery between the dance. Mr Cuthbert Lambton, in a Japanese costume, with a very long moustache, was a striking figure. Mr Mirehouse wore a beef eater" dress, which suited him very well. Mr Edwin Saunders-Davies and Mr Delme Davies- Evans were dressed as Egyptian saises," and there were several other dresses of the same sort. The Hon. Hugh Campbell wore a kilt. The danc- ing was kept up till a late hour.

CARMARTHEN. BANQUET TO THE FIRE BRIGADE.—Last Wed- nesday evening through the kind liberality of Mr Thomas Thomas, J.P., Welltield, the members of the Carmarthen Fire Brigade and the Borough Police Force were entertained at a sumptuous banquet, served in host and hostess Williams' best style at the Ivy Bush Royal Hotel. The Company, numbering about 35, sat down at 8 o'clock and ample justice was done to the splendid spread presented to them. The cloths being re- moved Mr Thomas, who occupied the chair, sup- ported by Councillor D. E. Williams, Messrs Videon Harding, J. Pughe Davies, and W. J. Needle, proposed the loyal toasts in felicitous terms all of which were happily and right loyally accepted. The toast of the Chief Magistrate of the town having been given from the chair and heartily responded to, Mr Thomas next proposed the toast of the evening, viz the Carmarthen Fire Brigade and Police Force. He passed a high eulogium upon the general smartness and ability of both forces, enumerated many of the valiant deeds which they have shewn themselves capable of in the past and wished them all as devoted a wholeness to duty in the future as had characterised their past. The Fire Brigade being a voluntary body he was sorry they were not thought of and appreciated more by the general public. But he hoped that in future they would meet with that recognition which their gallant services entitled them to at the hands of their fellow townsmen. He coupled the name of Brigadier Chief-Constable Smith with the toast which was very enthusiastically drunk. Mr Smith suitably responded and then proposed the health of their entertainers-Mr and Mrs Thomas. He was acquainted with Mr Thomas' family for many years at Swansea where his brothers to-day held high and responsible posi- tions, his brother, John Thomas, being Town Clerk of that prosperous and progressive town. Both he and his comrades felt proud of the kindness manifested towards them that evening and he felt certain he echoed the feelings of all present when he thanked Mr and Mrs Thomas from the bottom of his heart for so encouragin,, a reception. He was also glad to see other gentle- men present to mark their sympathy with and appreciation of the services they faithfully sought to render the town. Mr D. E. Williams threw out a suggestion that the Fire Brigade, being a volunteer one, efforts should be made to start a benevolent fund in connection with the same to meet all cases of temporary and permanent disability or death in the execution of their dangerous duties. The Brigade next presented a handsome Clock to Brother Charles Horatio Carpenter on the occasion of his wedding, the Chairman making the presentation in a suitable and humorous speech. Mr Carpenter suitably responded. Messrs Videon Harding, W. Finch, and H. Baskerville, enlivened the proceedings with songs, and Mr C. Finch & MrT.O. Edwards gave good recitations. The evening's proceedings were brought to a close at 10.30 by singing ^uld Lang Syne,' Mr Harding accompanying on the piano. CARMARTHEN SouP KITCHEN. -Mr D PMorgan, hon. sec., begs respectfully to acknowledge the following subscriptions :-Mr J H Barker, Pl is; Mr H. Howells, 10s 6d DrH Lawrence, Waun- gron, El L')rd Bishop of St. David's, zC5 Mr Lewis Morris, 10s. -A meeting of the subscribers and others interested in this charity was held at the Guildhall on Tuesday evening, Mr Thomas Thomas, official receiver, presiding. The report of the hon. sec., Mr D. P. Morgan, showed that the distribution of bread and soup commenced on Friday, December 12th, 1890, and ended on March 27th, 1891. During that period about 9,827 loaves of bread and 10,603 quarts of soup were sold to the poor, who, at an expendi- ture of ld, obtained a quart of soup and a loaf of bread. Last year some C60 was received in subscriptions, and zE40 from David Morris's Charity. The trustees proposed to give less than half the latter amount this year, as other institu- tions were to be assisted. Therefore it was hoped the charitably disposed would render timely help. It was decided to commence the distribution next Friday. -A cordial vote of thanks was ordered to be conveyed to the Carmarthen Cycling Club and to Mr Studt for their pecuniary aid, and the secretary consented to be re-appointed for another year. ACCIDENT.—Master Dixon Hearder, son of Dr Hoarder, medical superintendent of the Joint Counties Asylum at Carmarthen, met with an accident in Guildhall-square on Wednesday evening. In attempting to spring on to the back of a rather frisky two-yeas-old pony, he lost his balance, and, one of his feet being in the stirrup, was dragged along a newly metalled road, kicked by the animal on the left temple, and otherwise considerably bruised by the rough surface. For- tunately friends speedily rescued him, and he was promptly attended to by Drs E. R. Williams and Parry. ST. PETKRS'S CHRISTMAS TREE.-This annual tree and entertainments were held yesterday (Thursday), a report of which will appear next week. LLANGELER. FUNERAL. -Last Monday morning the mortal remains of the Rev Llewelyn Davies, vicar of Nantddu, Cwmtaf, were conveyed from Penwern to their last resting place in Llangeler church- yard. The deceased being a native of Llangeler where many of his relations live, the funeral was the largest seen in the parish. Being in indifferent health for some months past the rev. gentleman had t > relinquish his pastoral duties and had come home to his sister Mrs Thomas at Penwern where every attention was paid him. He gradually grew worse, was confined to his bed, and on the last day of the old year he peacefully passed away at the age of 63 years. The Revs John Williams vicar of the parish and E. P. Jones, curate of Llandyssul, officiated at the burial. Amongst those present we noticed the Penwern, Dancapel, and Cwmeudw families, the Revs. W. G. Jenkins, vicar of Llandyssul, and D. Jones, Rector of Bangor Teify Messrs Evans and Thomas, solicitors, Llandyssul; J. Pughe Davies, Carmarthen D. Jones, Court Mill J. Evans, Penffynon Michael Evans, Tynewydd D. Evans, Penlan W. Jones. Velindre B. Jonjs, Llandyssul and all the leading residents of the parish and surroundings districts.

LLANDILO BOARD OF GUARDIANS. The usual fortnightly meeting was held on Saturday, when there were in attendance. Major Thomas (in the chair), Col. Gwynne Hughes, Messrs James Rees, Joseph Harries, Wm. Jones, John Harries, D. Morgan, Wm. Lewis, D. Lloyd, 'Vm. Rees, Evan Thomas, John Williams, John Jones, Thomas Evans, Henry Herbert, Isaac Edwards, James Thomas and Thos. Thomas. RELIEF EXPENDITURE. South district (Mr Watkins): 12th week, .£46 lis 6d for 344 paupers; 1st week, 4LI2 15s 6d for 341; corresponding periods, twelvemonths ago, £ 46 14s 61 and £ 43 Is 61 for 336 and 314. North district (Mr Davies) 12th week, £ 15 lis for 307 paupers; 1st week, iJ42 0s 6d for 306 correspond- ing periods, Y,47 3s and .£43 6s for 324 and 323. THE HOUSE. The Master (Mr W Simon) reported the number of inmates in the House for the 12th and 1st weeks respectively as 33 and 35 correaponding periods last year, 36 and 35. There was a less number of vagrants in the House compared with the corres- ponding period. The usual Christmas dinner, pro- vided by the Guardians, passed off (the Master said) quietly, all the inmates appearing to enjoy themselves. They wished to return their w-iny thanks to the Board for their kindness, and through them to the following donors who pre- sented them with Christmas presents and New Year's gifts, viz., Misses Gwynne Hughes, Miss Havard, Mrs and the Misses Thomas, Caeglas, Mrs Hopkins and Miss Morgans, Cawdor ArtUs Hotel, Mr W Griffiths, Railway Tavern Stores. Miss Saunders, Courthenry, Rev J Evans, curate (who kindly exhibited his magic lantern) and Miss Davies, his sister-in-law. On New Year's Day, Mr H Peel, J.P., Taliaris Park, gave to the in- mates his second annual dinner (subject to con- sent of the Board) which was much enjoyed, and all the inmates desired to return him their many thanks. The Board directed the Clerk to acknow- ledge the generosity of all the donors. THE TREASURER'S REPORT. This showed the amount of calls due to be .£900 4s 3d. Balance in hand, .£240. STRICTURES ON OVERSEERS. The Chairman called attention to the fact that there were certain overseers that collected poor rates who would, after receiving some X40 or £50, keep the money with them for some time instead of paying it direct into the Bank. It was not right, he 3aid, to retain the money, because the other overseers who did pay in were despite that responsible for those who did not. Those over3eers who would not pay in at once, the Board should take proceedings against. After some discussion, it was resolved, on the motion of Mr Herbert, seconded by Mr John Jones, that the Clerk write to the defaulting overseers on the matter. THE PRICE OF BUTTER. In dealing with the quarterly bills, one or two members took exception to the Master paying Is 3d per Ib for butter, urging it was too high, and that as good bntter could be obtained for Is Id. The Master urged the contrary. The bill was, however, allowed, and Mr Jones then gave notice that he would move at the next meeting that butter and cheese be obtained by tender. SANITARY AUTHORITY. The owner of the house occupied by J. Rees, at Pantsoar, and formerly reported by the Inspector to be in an unfit state for human habitation, wrote to say he would attend to the premises in the spring if the Board would wait until then. There was no dissent. A water rate for Cwmamman at 9d in the £ was signed.

LLANDILO LOCAL BOARD. The ordinary monthly meeting of this Board was held on Tuesday evening when there were present, Major Thomas (in the chair), Messrs William Philipps, T. George Williams, Thomas Hopkins, Thomas Thomas, William Griffiths and E. A. Roberts. DRAINS. The tender of Mr Thomas Lewis for construct- ing a drain from Rhosmaen-street into Crescent- road was accepted at 3s. per yard. In reply to Mr T. George Williams the surveyor said he con- sidered the price reasonable. WATER FOR OTHER THAN DOMESTIC PURPOSES. Mr T. George Williams enquired if the rates due from publicans for water used by them for other than domestic purposes had been paid.— Mr Hopkins said no one had collected it from him. Mr Philipps remarked that the Board must have the collector there before they could have an explatiation.-The Clerk said he would make enquiries.—The Chairman It is possible that the third quarter has not been paid. -Mr T. George Williams rather thought the matter had escaped the collector's memory.—The Clerk i ro- mised to see to the matter. THE TOWN MAP. The Clerk said he had received an application from the Ordnance Survey Office, London, asking for the loan of the town map. He suppo led they wanted it to assist them to take the acre,ge and ascertain the boundaries. The Board con- sented to the Clerk lending the map provided it be returned within a month. THE TOWN LAMPS. Mr Philipps remarked that some of the town lamps were sometimes not put out, whether the contractor could not do so he did not know. — Mr T. George Williams observed that some lamps were not lit at all. The matter then dropped. THE TOWN CLOCK AGAIN. A bill for gas used in the town clock room was laid before the Board.—Mr T. George Williams complained that the gas they paid for should be used for bell-ringing.—The Chairman said the bill was in respect of gas used in the clock room, but Mr Williams pointed out that it was used in other parts of the tower, viz, where the bellringers were.—Mr W. Griffith enquired if the gas was at all necessary there. -The Chairman and Mr Phillips said it was very darrp in the tower. Mr T. George Williams asked who saw to the proper use of the gas there.—The Chairman s id it was his own business and Mr William i's. The use of gas there had not been extravaga t. -Mr T. George Williams rejoined that anything was extravagant which was not due. The gas he said was lit frequently for the bell ring -rs and the noise they often made was a perfect nuisance. He would not say that bell-ringing was not a necessity, but they should not 1 ay for gas which was enjoyed by others.—A member suggested that the Surveyor should look to the matter.—Mr Philipps said it was not the duty of the Surveyor to go to the Church tower.— Mr T. George Williams urged that it was a matter of principle. He did not object to pay for ;"I\S for the clock room (which clock he said was a boon to the town when properly managed), but he only wanted to know whether it was prope:ly lighted.—The Chairman said he was sure Mr Richards (the secretary of the Gas CompaDy), did not send in a bill except for what was con- sumed in the clock tower.—Next a bill from Mr John Bowen for winding, &c., the town cl ck was laid before the Board.—Mr T. G. Williams proposed that the same be not paid until the clock chimed properly. He thought the clock was disgracefully kept. The time was generally incorrect and the order of chiming the quarters and striking the hours was often at variance. He was surprised that no member of the Bond had called attention to the matter.—The Chair- man said Mr Williams was not in order in making any proposition then, and that he should give notice to call attention to the matter at the next meeting.—Mr T. G. Williams observed that it was a matter of public urgency and thought the Clerk should write at once to the person responsi- ble.—Mr Philipps dissented because the bill was only in respect of winding.—Mr T. George Williams said that one day the town clock was some minutes slow and another day a few minutes fast. They ought to have Greenwich time.—Mr E. A. Roberts Call it Church clock. -Mr T. George Williams Church clock if you like then.—The Chairman said the discussion was irregular and repeated that Mr Williams should give notice. The bill must be paid as it had been passed. [It appears the bill had been submitted to the meeting before the dis- cussion, but all the members did not exactly understand what it was for]. -Mr T. George Williams continuing the discussion remarked that each member of the Board if they had men employed under them saw that they were doing their work right, and he did not see why they should not do so in the case of their public servants.—Mr Philipps replied that Mr Williams was himself in fault by not submitting to the Chairman's ruling that he was not in order. Mr Will:am3 then formally gave notice to revert to the subject at the next meeting. The Bill was allowed.

[The foregoing report is unavoidably very much ccndensed-- EDITOH. ]

CARDIGANSHIRE QUARTER SESSIONS. The Epiphany Quarter Sessions for the Countv of Cardigan were opened at the Town Hall, Lampeter, on Thursday (yesterday), before Mr J W Willis Bund, chairman. The other justices present were The Lord Lieutenant of the County Mr Charles Lloyd, Waunifor Major Price Lewes, Tyglyn Aeron Mr T H Brenchley, Glaneirw Mr J E Rogers, A' er meurig Mr B E Morgan. Aberystwyth Mr Griffith Rowlands, London Mr D J Williams. Tregaron Mr J Fowden, Bank Hall Major Basset Lewis, Aberystwyth Mr T H Maddy, Dolaeron Mr C E Longcroft, Llanina Mr D J Davies, Cardigan Captain Jones Parry, Tyllwyd Colonel Howell, Pantgwyn Mr W 0 Brigstocke, Parkygorse Mr Tobit Evans, Llanarth Mr J C Harford, Falcond.-de Captain Stewart, Alltyrodyn and Rev Rhys Jones Lloyd, Troedyraur. GRAND JURY. The following gentlemen were empanelled on the Grand Jury Messrs J M Howell, Aberayron, fore- man R Bickerstaff, Evan Hugh James, Morgan Morris, and D Hopkins, skinner, Aberystwyth Thos. Davies, junior, Pantyfedwen T Hughes, Pantcoy Peter James, Hafodlas Evan Jones, Feathers, Aberayron John Jones, Dolfawr, Gwnnws D Lewis, Alban Square, Aberayron J W Lloyd, Trefynor and Morgan Morgans, Pantycraf. THE CHARGE. The Chairman, in charging the Grand Jury, said there was only one case to come before them-a rather pecular one perhaps. It was a charge against a pro- fessional singer for obtaining money & wearing apparel by false pretences. The Chairman then gave the jury a retrospect of the case, which is reported below. The jury retired, and the Court proceeded with the CIVIL BUSINESS. THE CHAIRMAN TENDERS HIS RESIGNATION. The first business on the agenda was to consider the resignation of the office of chairman tendered by Mr Willis Bund. The Chairman said-I must ask the indulgence of the Court for a few minutes, and then I will state the reason I have placed the first item on the agenda. The Court has always treated me with such kindness, and I regret to have to do so, but I could not see after last sessions that I could do otherwise under the circum- stances than tender my resignation to the Court. I do so for this reason. I have always said, and hold very strongly that whatever order this Court makes, it is the duty of every member of the Court to obev whether he agrees with it or not, and though I do not quite agree with the order-I do not say wrongly —which the Court has made, I think it is my duty to set an example of obedience to it, and although I can- not agree to assist in carrying it out, yet I do so at once by tendering my resignation that someone may be appointed in my place, who will carry out loyally the orders of the ourt. Another reason is this—As you are hll aware the Chairman of the Court is the representative of the Court on various occasions, in- cluding the standing joint committee. The only authority with which he speaks is the authority of the Court, and it is most necessary the chairman should have and give what he says—as the authority of the Court, and the Court should be prepared to sup- port him. That really ought to be the position of every chairman, especially in my case, being a stranger to the county, because, unless I have the authority of the Court anything I may say at the standing joint committee would be utterly worthless. Anything I say is only entitled to weight, because I speak on be- half of the Court, and as the policy commends itself to me, and not to the Court, I feel on that grourd alone I ought to make way for someone else. The third reason is this. If, after the order come to last time, I continue to occupy this posi- tion it would be said that I would only be doing so on account of the distinction which the position gave me, and that I was occupying it for my own glorification far more than for the good of the county. I could not for a moment allow such an insinuation to be made, and therefore, I think it is my duty first of all to tender my resignation. I regret having to do 80 and to put the Court to such inconvenience after they had treated me with such great kindness and considera- tion. But one was obliged to consult his feelings And what was right to the Court; and as a loyal member of it I see no other course open to me than that which I have taken. I am afraid I have on some occasions in the heat of debate or in the excitement of the moment, used some words or expressions to members of the Court that may have caused some pain. If I have done so I may say I only regret it and apologise most heartily for it. I thank those justices who have always so loyally supported me in the past in spite of the mistakes, which I must have made, and I hope you will honour me with your friendship even should I cease to occupy the chair The Clerk then read the letter of resignation as follows:— 15, Old Square, Lincoln's Inn, 21st December, 1891, Gentlemen, — I beg to place in your hands my resignation of the office of chairman to which you were good enough to appoint me two years ago. As thi Court has determined to follow a course of policy that practically outlaws the clergy, and delegates the maintenance of order to self-elected committees, both of which steps I hold to be improper, I am unable, much to my regret, to do anything else. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, Your obedient servant, J. W. WILLIS BUND--the Justices of the Peace for Cardigan- hire in Quarter Sessions. Capt. Jones-Parry said.- I rise to propose that the resignation of Mr Willis Bund be not accepted. I do so in the first place from personal motives, because I for one shall be very sorry that I shall not have the opportunity of welcoming Mr Bund at this Court. But I do so more particularly on public grounds, because I think his resignation would be absolutely a loss and inconvenience to the Court and to the county in general. I will not express my own opinion more fully, because I do not know that I hold a position in the county that would carry much weight, but I have the authority (and I am glad to be able to state it) of many gentlemen who have served on this Bench for many years—and have served with distinction—to say that, though they cannot to-day be present, they most cordially hope we, as a Court, should not accept the resignation of Mr Willis Bund. I hope Mr Willis Bund will feel that he has still the confidence of this Court, and I hope that one and all will give him the loyal and proper support which he deserves. Col. Howell. Sir, I have great pleasure in seconding the proposition, and hope you will be able to see your way to withdraw your resignation and remain to preside over our Court. Mr W 0 Brigstocke said I am sorry I oannot alto- gether agree with the proposition laid by my two friends, but I assure you I am not actuated by any personal still less by any political feeling. I am here not representing any party or clique, but I am here as an independent and old member of the Court, and although I do not move an amendment, I must take this opportunity of protesting against the policy of which, you, sir, have been the exponent. The policy that you have backed up has been that this Court has a separate and independent control over the police, other than that granted to it by the Standing Joint Com- mittee. I will not go into the question as to the strict legal and technical foundation upon which you base such assumption. Possibly you may be right in your construction of section 9, sub-section 3 of the Act. as to the powers conferred by the Act upon the Standing Joint Committee, but I cannot help thinking that it is most unfortunate that as long as that spirit of policy is carried out, we shall not have peace or quietness in the county. You, sir, have taken active steps (I have no doubt, you'have done it conscientiously, and with the very best of in- tentions) to put that authority into effect. You sub- mitted a case ably drawn up which you were goodenough to show me before it was submitted, to the Queen's Bench to pass au opinion, but you know the Queen's Bench at once declined to interfere. At the last Sessions you intr duced a serious resolution, which I think the Court in their wisdom refused to entertain. Now, please, gentlemen, do not think for one moment that I wish in any way to show any kind or sort of sympathy in the breaking of the law. I think it is absolutely the duty of every citizen to uphold and obey the law even if it is a bad one, when tne proper steps would be to have it repealed. Still it is a dangerous doctrine, on any grounds whatever, to refuse the pay- ment of just demands. But, I do not think it requires the intervention of this:Court or anybody else to point out to the police what is their plain duty. I think the duty of the police is as clear as possible, they are bound to afford proper protection, not only from violence to individuals carrying out their lawful business, but also to resist passive opposition to I the carrying out of the law. I am sure you will forgive me, sir, it is not on any personal grounds, but I do protest most emphatically against the Court of Quarter Sessions interfering in anv wav whatever with the control of the police except through the com- mittee. I do not offer any amendment' The Lord Lieutenant said I think it is only some three years ago that at the generally expressed desire of the members of this Bench I proposed your name as Chairman of this Court, and I can only say ] very much regret that circumstances should have arisen that in your opinion will oblige you to tender your resignation to day. Of course, there are occasions when differences of opinion between the Chairman and the majority of the members of the Bench can only tbe solved by his resignation, but we have never differed from you and we have never challenged your ruling upon any point of law, course of procedure, or order. At the last Court, and unofficially, as I take it, and acting in your private capacity as a magistrate, you placed a certain resolution upon the agenda and the majority of the magistrates present were of opinion that the time had not arrived when such resolution should be passed. It was merely a matter of judg- ment and in no way whatever was it a question of con- hdence. I therefore very much regret that this notice should have appeared on the agenda. However we have nothing to do now but to consider that notice as it stands upon the agenda. Unfortunately, we cannot consider that notice without coupling it with what occurred at the last Court here. We are none of us infallible and possibly the majority at the last Court may have been in error. But I must say that for myself personally, as one of that majority, I do not regret the vote J gave on that occasion, and I now find myself in a p isition that I really cannot support the motion put before us v Capt. Jones-Parry without stultifviny the vote on that previous occasion. I have only two options before rat one, to vote against It, and the other to abstain from voting, but I think I will follow the latter course and take no further part in this debate. The Chairman, having invited a continuation of the iebate, and no one complying with the request, pro- ceeded to reply. The Chairman said: Before I pat che question. I think, in answer to the observation of my friend, Mr Brigstocke, I ought to say just one word. I feel sure, and Brigstocke need not have said so, that when we differed in our views nothing personal was meant. But I think it only right, only fair, to the Court that I should state, and state plainly, what my views are so that there cannot be any mistake if it is the pleasure of the Court to ask me to remain here, because I agree with the Lord Lieutenant, and feel that in a case like this we ought not to disagree, if it can possibly be avoided, and it was only because I felt that it was part of my duty to the Court that induced me to put my resignation in its hands. I am quite aware from letters I have received from many justices that nothing personal was intended. But it was a question (If principle, and when on a question of prin- ciple the Chairman differs from the majority of the Court, the Chairman is bound to give the Court an opportunity for considering the position. As a man of honour I do not think I could have done otherwise. If I have put the Court to any trouble on this ground I feel sure they will forgive me; I have one word mora to say, and to say clearly, as to what my views on the subject are. I hold very strongly that there can be no more honourable position for any justice or gentleman to be allowed to occupy than to preside over his brother justices, if they agree to carry out the law without fear, favour or affection, as regards all Her Majesty's subjects. I do feel, and feel very strongly that when there is an incipient lawlessness, I will not use a stronger word, this Court abstains, for whatever reason it thinks right, from taking any part to sup- press it, and sits, as it were, with its arms folded and m does nothing—that policy is a policy that ought not to be followed. To me it is a policy that appears something like cowardice and desertion—a desertion of those persons who are entitled to the protection of the law, and allowing other persons to set themselves up above the law. I wish distinctly to say these are my opinions, and I hope I have the courage of those opinions. Having said this, and if the Court thinks I can be of any use to it by retaining this position, the poor services I can render are at the disposal of the Court. The amendment of Capt. Jones-Parry was then submitted to the meeting and declared carried, Mr Brigstocke being the only justice that voted against it. The Lord Lieutenant abstained from voting. Mr Bund will therefore retain the chairmanship. THE STANDING JOINT COMMITTEE.—APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS. The next business was to appoint twelve justices to act as members of the Standing Joint Committee until the Epiphany Sessions, 1893. The following were the old members :J, W. Willis Bund, Esq., the Lord Lieutenant, Major Price Lewes, Thos. Herbert Maddy, John Edwardes Rogers, Arthur Howell Jones, Esquires, Capt. James Stewart, the Rev J. M. Griffiths, Charles Lloyd, J. W. Szlumper, Tobit Evans, and John Fowden, Enquires. n The Chairman intimated that the Rev J. M. Urimths wished to resign as his time was otherwise fully occupied, and Mr J. C. Harford, Falcondale, was unanimously substituted in his stead. APPOINTMENT OF VISITORS. The next business was to appoint two justices to act as visitors to Her Majesty's Prison at Carmarthen for the eisuill, year. The present visitors (Sir Marteine Owen Mowbray Lloyd, Bart., and Capt. James Stewart) were re-appointed. SCALE OF FEES. The Chairman submitted a report to the Court upon f iire T1>S10n sca*e °f feeP to be taken by the Clerk of the Peace and of the costs to be allowed by the ol ln Prosecutions and appeals. A copy of the report was issued among the justices. The revieed scale was unanimously adopted. PEXAL SERVITUDE. The Court then considered the only communication from the Secretary of State, viz,, a circular referring to penal servitude. The Chairman explained its purport, which was to the effect that in future the term of penal servitude for three years would be reduced. A sentence for that period on a female, if she obtained the maximum marks, would be equivalent to two years imprisonment with hard labour, and on a man equivalent to two years and three months. CRIMINAL BUSINESS. AN IMPUDENT FRAUD.—A WELSH PROFESSIONAL A F U-N BLNGER TROUBLE. otherwi^ v aSaJnst Keturah Evans, was rharcr rl Vk • Pr°fessional singer, who "rom one F1? havin& obtained by false pretences, f rom one Ellenor .T OneS on the 21st of December last, the sum of sixpence, one skirt, one shawl, one hander- r'j in ,a Pal.r of boots, of the value of about ti juA Prisoner was described as being well- educated. She pleaded "'Not guilty." Mr Lewis M. Richards (instructed by Mr W Pie ton Evans, solicitor, Cardigan) prosecuted, and the prisoner was undefended. YT1S0 £ e-r had g?ue t0 Henbant, Cardigan, the home and «.v"rVen Jones' the well-known Welsh tenor, and «here prosecutrix was servant, and had falsely represented in Mr Jones's absence that she was a friend of his, on the face of which statement the goods were handed her. Prisoner was found guilty, and sentenced to one month's imprisonment with hard labour.—The Court then rose.

TO OUR CORRESPONDENTS. Accounts of Christmas services, and several other items of news that came to hand this week should have been received by us last week. We have no room in our columns for stale news. Pressure on our space has compelled us to also omit several items of local and district news of more recent date, and all letters to the Editor, including a lengthy one from Rev C. H. Davies, the Diocesan Inspector of Schools. All letters will appear next week.

HUNTING APPOINTMENTS. The Dolwilym Beagles will meet on January 13th, at Waunfrwd ? and on SturH^ January 16th at Blitherstone each day at U o'clock' 1 he Neuaddfawr Foxhounds will meet on TuesS' January 12th, at Henfenvw • and on Fr^„V T c y' 15th, M LUnybyM.er day at 10.30 5' *nU"' V JaLLy 'SP.HUStJS"G' £ -Td °° January loth, at Coomb each day 'at 11 S The Tivyside Foxhounds will meet on January lltb, at Salutation Hotel, NnciS' S 11.80 y' J,°U"y 1'th' i day' January °5mhri'l,S ICfaAS?' entrance) and on Thursday, January H l ™ f°f tfynydd Cynrhos each day at 11 r> Air Pryse Rice's Foxhounds will meet on Monday, January 11th, at Ystradtin Tuesday, JANUAR^thTt Halfway House, Brecon-roa^ • rrV, "T "in, at 14th, at Mothvey Village and onvffi' iath, at Cefn, at 10 other days at 10.30 January 1 he Pembrokeshire Foxhounds will' meet on Afnn day, January Hth, at Bonier. • v. V °a -u°n- Neyiand square, Tenby each day at 11. iudor'

BIRTHS. & ^«do"M?AkS Evans, of a son. THmIAS.January 5th, at HaU-Etreet, Carmarthen, the wIfe of 2\fr Thomas, of a daughter. PVIV Tj MARRIAGES. Harries.—~t)0cenihpr oofu ry Carmarthen, by the Kev Tni v n Chapel, &°rf Llangadock"'fby wT*' Thomas, commercial travall^r \r £ lUiam Miss Elizabeth Henrietta & Tydvi1' ta Mt D- Church, by the Rev. I^Pnce^-i'car Llal?'!11? Rev. J. T Evans IT i Vca,r' assisted by the bride), and Rev J. c Ev^if* ? (brother of the OxfordrSUeet, Swansea to'r'tK^ u Williams, 1, Glenview Villas, Llandilo h' Evans' o £ DEATHS, agd flO es, 2tid at Green Hall, (formerJy ot the HaH Moon Inn), David, son of aged Ii N-ears. Ev AX:->J anuary 5th, at Alltyoadno, Llangendeirne, Evans, aged 79 years. Ta ley, Mrf j- hornas Grithths, auctioneer, <fec. (after ]ate,Mr illness), aged 77 years. a very short HUMPHREYS.—January 4th, at J garet, relict of the late Mr Mar-- (formerly of Danlan. Ferrvsir)^ j n^' Humphreys and daughter of the ]ate \TrAberystwyth). ("armarfchen. aged 78 years David Brigstocke, o £ JONKS.— December HfifV, QV« ivr of Mr W. Jones Owen, son Carmarthen) y °* ^he Blue Boar InBj JoNEs.Tanuarv & ?'TS' Accidently kil|ed. Jones, Indenenrl ^Pencader, the Rev. R. P, minister, aged 49 years. Wis, ay!!d 4» years"' Tall^> Mr Lewi. Kr\rm^H,malT 4th>' at the °ld BnIi Eating-house H^11' Ann 74 years. ,r December oWth, at Parkbach, near CwmHit r mey, Mr Daniel Thomas, a.e.i til veaw 1 HOMAS.-■_ January 2nd, at Llwj-ncel m Mr I >avid Thomas, awd tfd year-. uatrfc, WILLIAMS.—January iftd. at Galltvcos* r\ Talley, Mr WilUa.m Williams, a?ed 74 j?kr5 WmJu*