The Carmarthen Journal and South Wales Weekly Advertiser

AMMANFORD SATURDAY, Dec. 24th.-Before Mr. A. E. DuBuisson, Glynhir (in the chair), and Alderman W. N. Jones. EJECTMENT. Mr. T. M. Evans, solicitor, Ammanford. applied for an ejectment order agairt Edward Bates, Ceidrvm-road, Glanamman, a monthly tenant of a house, the property of Dr. T. Morgan, Llandovery. —The notices were in order, and Mr. Evans deposed that Dr. Morgan had appointed him as his agent in respect of house property at Glanamman, and that defendant had admitted to him that he was a monthly tenant. The Bench granted an order. THE DRINK. For charges of being drunk and disorderly the following were dealt with as under:— John Cameron, Woodlield-terrace, Ammanford, fined 5s. and costs. David James Phillips, Quay-street, Ammanford, did not appear, and a warrant was issued. Isaac Watkins, Tycroes, fined 5s and costs. David Llewellyn, Bryn-road, Brynamman, did not appear, and a warrant was issued. Johmn Littler, Hopkinstown, fined 5s. and costs. INDECENT LANGUAGE. George Oxeham, Pontlash, for using obscene language was fined 10s. and costs, whilst Samuel Roberts, Llwynyrhaf-fach, Bettws, charged with a like offence, had also to pay 10s. and costs.—Inspector Davies proved both cases. OBSTRUCTING THE HIGHWAY. P.C. Thomas charged Rees Thomas, Penybont Farm, Glanamman, with obstructing the highway by fighting.—He was fined 2s. 6d. and costs. Arthur Day, rontamman House, Ammanford, charged with a similar offence, did not appear and a warrant was issued. ILL TREATING A HORSE. Wm. Pattisc.n, Stepney-road, Garnant, was charged by Inspector W. Roberts, of the N.S.P.C.A., with ill-treating a horse. Defendant pleaded "Guilty" to the offence. P.C. Edwards deposed that at 6.30 p.m. on the 10th inst. he saw the defendant leading a dark bay pony in High-street, Ammanford. Noticing the animal very lame on the near fore leg, he drew defendant's attention to the fact. He replied, "Yes, I am very sorry. I have been taken in by some gypsies three months ago over the deal." The pony had since been destroyed. Defendant appealed for leniency. He said it was the first time that he had been in a court of law. He was an old man and the loss of his pony had deprived him of the means of his livelihood. P.S. Morgan said defendant was a well-behaved man and very poor. The Chairman—We shall let you off on payment of costs-7s. 6d. PERSISTENT CRUELTY. Mary Richards, Caebryn-terracc, baron, applied for a separation order against her husband, jl. J-i. Richards, on the ground of his persistent cruelty towards her. defendant pleaded "Guilty" to having struck her, but it was under great provocation, ii they would like to hear his argument he was ready to proceed with it, but he did not wish to say anpthaig if he could help it. The Clerk asked the parties if they could not (0:11.) to terms. Defendant said he was willing to take her baok, but the wife said she had given him a chance it'iiny times before. The Clerk-But you have never brought him to Court. D.C.C. Evans—Yes, in March last, but they se*t.eu before appearing. Complainant said they were married ten years ago, and had five children living of the marriage, all of whom were under the age of 16. She left hini en November 26th because he abused her. ile struck her several times with his closed fist in I -:C, face. She had done nothing whatever to him. lhe night previous they had a quarrel because she Jitd run up a bill for 27s. for necessaries of the house excijsive of meat and butter during the fortnight iasttud of 19s., as defendant ordered. When he saw ihat he went raving mad. He had also assaulted her in August lact, and had struck her on seve-al ether occasions. She was now living with her in Carmarthen, but had been a week in the cijien ;.t Llandilo. Defendant had given nothing towards her support during the last four weeks, though he carried £4 a fortnight. Cross-examined.—Defendant—Of course, I have caught many things that were wrong in account books, and I have had reasons to look after accounts, have I or have I not Witness—What things? What about a certain draper at Ammanford?— That is nothing; it is finished now. The Clerk-But you are charged with persistent cruelty. efendant—Persistent! I only gave her two slaps in the face. in the face. Further cross-examined, complanant said she did I not have a farthing to handle herself. During the time of her confinement she had not a penny she could spend as she desired. Defendant—Didn't you have JE50 in the house at the time.—Would I dare iook at them? (laughter). DefendaJlt- When one finds things wrong in ac- counts. it,is only fair for a man to have a share in the administration of the affairs of the house. Do I drink?—No, it is worse than drink. Do I work -very day?—Yes. but what's the good of that to me? P.C. va Thomas said he knew both complainant and defendant. She made complaints to him two or three years ago but not lately about defendant striking her. She was an industrious woman, and defendant, was a steady man, working regularly. The Bench made an order for £1 a week towards the mainrenance of wife and children. PROSECUTIONS BY THE CARMARTHEN- SHIRE FISHERY BOARD. Superintendent H. 0. Long Price, of the Towy Fishery Board, charged George Oxenham, Pontlash, with having an unclean salmon in his possession, the same not being taken for artificial propagation or for scientific purpose.—Defendant pleaded "Guilty." P.C. Roberts deposed that at- 11 p.m. on the 24th of last month, he was on duty at Llandebie in 24th of last month, he was on duty at Llandebie in company with P.C. Williams (14). He saw the defendant coming along the path near the bridge. .When he came on the bridge witness noticed that he carried a parcel under his coat on the left side. He spoke to him and asked him what he had in the parcel, and also told him that he suspected him of having in his possession a salmon. He replied, "What do you think I am? Do you think I am a thief?" Witness again asked him to explain what he had in the parcel, but he refused and went on. Witness followed him closely, and he then threw the parcel along to the hedge. Witness opened it and found the salmon (produced) inside quite fresh and wet, and weighing about 71bs. Cross-examined.—Defendant: Was I wet? I did not notice. Did you search me?—I did not. Defendant's story was that he was coming from the College Inn at about quarter to ten, when he met four or five young men, who asked him if he would buy a fish. And he did so. The Clerk—You should not have done so. You certainly know what an unclean salmon is. Supt. Price—If anybody knows, defendant does. The Bench fined him 17s. 6d. (inclusive). ANOTHER CHARGE. Supt. H. 0. Long Price also charged John Thomas, Pentregwenlais. and John Morris, Panty- blodeu, Llandebie, with being in company with men who unlawfully used lights and spears for the pur- pose of killing salmon in the River Cennen. Mr. J. R. Williams appeared on behalf of both defendants, and pleaded "Not guilty." Water-bailiff Walter Walters said he remembered Sunday morning, November 27th. He was on duty .that night on the River Cennen. About 1.30 a.m. he was on duty with three other bailiffs at College, Derwydd Road. He there saw a light below the bridge. itness and the others then went un the river and concealed themselves. While there he saw two men with lights walking up through the river, and one man in the middle with a gaff. and four men walking: the river bank opposite. When the men on the bank came up within ten yards to where thev were concealed they (the bailiffs) went to them. The men aranged in a row in a fighting attitude with their sticks up, shouting, "Stand back." Witness, however, collared Morris, who said, "Alright Walters, I am here." Then witness saw the other man, John Thomas, jumping into the river, and he left Morris and pursued. When they were about reaching the bank on the other side of the river, and witness was about catching hold of him, he gave witness a backward blow with a stick till his hat went away with the water. Witness then gave him a smack with the staff, and followed him further for about 50 yards on the bank. De- fendant looked back, and seeing witness close to him, said, "I am giving in, I am giving in." Wit- ness caught hold of him by the collar and took him back. When crossing the river back, he told witness "We have no fish." On reaching the other bank, witness saw isailift lies and Morris tackling each other, Morris wanting to fight the best bailiff. Wit- ness then went down to where they saw the men at first, and found a sack containing five saimon (pro- duced), which were quite fresh, and also a cap. Cross-examined—He did not suggest that these de- fendants were the two men that came up the river with lights; they were outside. on the river-bank. There might be more than four men on the bank, but he was certain of four. Morris did not tell him that he had nothing whatever to do with that gang, and that lie and Thomas had only come up to see what the light was. Both were under the influence of drink. Mr. Williams—What became of the other two men on the bank. They ran away, didn't they?—Yes. You were four bailiffs against the four men?—I caught hold of Morris. You were doing all the work?—I caught these two whatever. Re-examined Witness knew that defendant, John Morris, was convicted at Llandilo for a similar offence this year. Also, he had heard that he had been previously convicted of being drunk and dis- orderly, being drunk and assaulting the police, being drunk and refusing to quit, etc. Water-bailiff Wm. Deans corroborated the last witness, and said he made after the three men in the river, but they crossed to the other side and he lost them in the darkness. Cross-examined—He did not see a stick in Morris's hand. There might be more than seven men there altogether. The Chairman (to Mr. Williams)—Do you admit that the men were there? Mr. Williams-We admit that they were on the field, but that they were not members of that fishing gang, but were attracted by the light and went to see what was there. Bailiff John Thomas also gave corroborative evi- dence. Defendant John Morris said he went with Thomas about two miles and a half from the College to a house where he wanted to call. Witness waited outside. They had with them a bottle of whisky to drink from. They finished the bottle in returning on the Cennen Bridge. Then they saw a light in the field above the bridge, and went to see what was there. They saw from 15 to 20 men poaching after salmon, but did not have the chance to know who they were as the bailiffs immediately came on, and all the men disappeared. Bailiff Walters tackled him first, but he told him that he had been else- where, and asked him to search him. They had no connection whatever with the men, but he did not deny being convicted of an offence last October. John Thomas, the other defendant, gave a similar story, and said Morris accompanied him on the undertaking that he brought a bottie of whisky to tiff from on the way. In cross-examination, witness refused to tell the name of the house where he said he had business that night. His solicitor urged him to give the house, but he refused. However, the Clerk, amidst laughter, drew from him the admission that it was the house of a widow and that he himself was a widower. In imposing a penalty, the Chairman said: We have come to the conclusion that there must be a convic- tion, and each of the defendants will be fined JB1 and costs. As regards the one, he must consider himself lucky that the previous conviction was not proved against him, because it would halve meant a very much severer penalty. As* it was we have de- cided to put him in the same category as the other.

LLANDOVERY FRIDAY, before Mr. D. Jones Lewis, the Mayor Mr. J. C'. Pryse-Rice, and Mr. B. Evans IX PURSUIT OF GAME. Jeremiah Harvey, a farmer, residing at Aber- ogwood, was charged with trespassing in pursuit of game in a wood in the Henllys Farm Estate. Mr. D. T. M. Jones, Llandovery, prosecuted, and Mr. Rees Edmunds Llanelly, defended. David Jones, a farm bailiff at Henllys said that on the 19th December Robert Southgate a youth was "trashing" on Waunfach Field, and witness was gathering the croppings. There was a wood close to the field which had a hedge right round it A dog was with them laying within ti few yards. Suddenly the dog began to bark and the boy said, "Let the dog go there's a poacher in the wood." Looking up witness saw defendant. He had a gun and a sheep bitch with him. The bitch was walking in front of defendant and "nosing" the hedge. Defendant did not say anything but went away when witness saw bailiff, but went over the hedge into his own field. Cross-examined—Defendant had a right to be in the field adjoining the wood. Defendant came up with the hedge. There was an occupation road leading to several fields in the vicinity. From the field witness could see into the wood. I Mr. Edmunds said it was a physical impossibility for witness to see into the wood from the spot where he stood. If necessary he would later invite the Bench to visit the spot. There was bad blood between the parties. By the Bench—Witness denied this and said that he used to ask defendant how he was when he saw him on the road. Cross-examined—Had heard that there was bad blood between ATr 0 John Morgan and defendant. He was not at Henllys two years ago, and did did not know that there had been another case between the parties. Pressed witness said he had heard of another case. He denied that he told Southgate to say that there was a man in the wood. It was the boy said. 'Let the dog go because there's someone in the wood." The boy and wit- ness said the same storv to Mr Jones, the solicitor for the prosecution, because they both saw the same thing. Re-examined—Had heard of some case two years ago but did not know what it was. Robert Southgate, the other person referred to, who is in the employ of Mrs. Morgan, Henllys- fawr. corroborated. When the last witness shouted "Therc's a poacher," Defendant, who was only twenty yards away could have heard it. Cross-examined—There was a hedge at this place but it was not a very big hedge. It was not merely a fencing. It was not a show of a hedge. It was not a barbed wire fence from the ground but there was barbed wire on the too. Had told his mother about the case and she told him to tell the truth. He denied eVer having told his mother that David Jones had told him that he must say the same as him. Had been told to keep an eye on defendant Jeremiah Harvey the defendant, said that he was out with a dog and a gun on his own field on the 19th November, and he had a perfect right to De there, but he emphatically denied having entered the wood. There was no hedge at all at the spot where the boy said he erc*sed but only a tumble- down wire fencing for about 15 or 20 yards and not a single twig at the boundary, for this reason he did not turn sheep or cattle out there. It would have been impossible for the witnesses to have seen him from the point they stated. The witness Jones never shouted to him. There had been bad blood between him and the Henllys tenants, and so far as they were concerned he (witness) was a marked man. Their feelings to- wards him could not be worse. He had reason to think that they had threatened to get him again after the previous case. In the last case he had received permission from the tenant to go over the land, and he was on that occasion given an opportunity to apologize but refused. It was only after the lapse of three months that the tenant denied having granted him permission. Daniel Jones had told him that Mr Morgan tried to get him from the farm he now occupied. He had not been an inch from his own land that day Cross-examined The present complainant brought him on two years ago. He had been con- victed at Llansawel for shooting game. He ad- mitted two other previous convictions for like offences. Mr Edmunds submitted that it had not been proved that there was game in this place. David Jones was recalled, and said it was a very good place for pheasants. The Chairman said the decision of the Bench was this-They found the defendant was in the wood in search of game He would be fined 30s. and costs. Advocate's fee was also allowed.

BRYNAMMAN NOTES (By "Park-Lane.") A Brynamman man, who is the happy owner of a large famiiy, plays Father Christmas in rather a novel manner. He carefully fills his wife's stockings on Christmas Eve with the presents he has bought for the children, and leaves their distribution to her It is cheaper, he says, and gives better all-round satisfaction! —•>— M e may confidently assert that Christmas brought joy to at least eight people in this locality. These were the happy young men and women who were willingly tied together in the holy bonds of wedlock last week. On Saturday, at Moriah Chapel, in the presence of the fathers of the respective' parties, and a large number of interested onlookers, Mr. David John Griffiths, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Griffiths. Gellvgynon Farm, Llanddeusant, and Miss Agnes Morgan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Morgan, Tinmen's-row, Brynamman, were joined togerher in the holy bonds of matrimony. The Rev. L. Rhystyd Davies officiated, and at the close of the interesting ceremony the happy pair were driven in a close-cab to Swansea, where the honeymoon is to ba spent. • Last Monday week, at the Pontardawe Registry, a quiet wedding took place between Mr. David John Evans, St. David's-row, Gwauncaegurwen, and Miss May Jones, Neuadd-terrace, Brynamman. *4* Last Wednesday week, before the Registrar at Pontardawe, Mr. Rees Howells, Llandilo-road, and Miss Lizzie Hannah Jones, Park-street, Brynamman, were quietly made man and wife. -.I. Again, at the Llandilo Registry, a quiet wedding took place between Mr. William Owen, son of Mr. and Mrs. Rees Owen, Mountain-road, and Miss Mary Davies, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Alexander Davies, Mountain-road, Brynamman. The JOUKXAL wishes all the parties the utmost happiness and prosperity. -♦>- The Brynamman Literary and Debating Society, which meets at our Public Hall, has at last been firmly established, and a successful meeting took place last Tuesday week. An interesting debate was opened by Messrs. Jonathan Jones and J. W. Rees, and all present took part. —fr- It is expected that an animated controversy will take place at next Tuesday's meeting, over the question—"Should Capital Punishment be abolished?" Mr. Emlyn Evans will take the affirma- tive, while Mr. D. J. Davies will dispute. A successful eisteddfod (from the competitive point of view) was held at our Hall last Saturday. Dr. W. Corkev, Brvnamman, presided; Professor David Evans, Mus. Bac., Cardiff, and Mr. Owen Williams, F.T.S.C., Newport were the adjudicators in music; Mr. J. J. Williams. Trebanos, adjudicated on the recitations: whilst the literary adjudicator and conductor of the day was Mr. William Jones ("Gwilym Brynamman"). The following awards were made:— Chief Choral £ 10)—Garw Music Lovers, conducted by Mr. T. B. Williams, Brynamman. Juvenile Choir ( £ 5.)—The Choir conducted by Miss Gwen Williams (daughter of Mr. John Clun Wil- liams, Brynamman. Duett (£1 10s.)—"Gwilym Taf" and friend, Maes- teg. Soprano Solo-Madaiiie Bessie Morris, Amman- ford. Contralto Solo-Madame May Jones-Roberts, Am- manford. Tenor Solo-Mr. Daniel Jones, Pontardawe. Bass Solo-Mr. Wm. Michael, Garnant. Solo for Boys under 16—Is wyn Morgan, Morris- ton. Solo for Girls under 16-1, Miss Rachel H. Roberts, Glanamman; 2, Miss Cissie Thomas, Bryn- amman. Tune for Hymn No. 536 (in "Caniedvdd)—Mr. William George, Ystalyfera. Penillion Singing—Mr. Gomer Williams, Bryn- amman. Prvddest—"Aden Gwawl" (name unknown). Englyn—"Macwv" (name unknown). Essay—Mr. Evan Parry, Bethesda, Carnarvon, and Mr. David John Davies, Goleufryn, Brynamman. In years to come, last Christmas will undoubtedly be termed the Black Christmas. The terrible mine disaster, the pitiful railway collisions, and the several black murders which have just taken place, have horrified all. The writer of the Laugharne Notes was in his element last week again. My friend must take care not to fall into the clutches of our League of Young Liberals, for their recent defeat in the Gower con- test has turned them into very fearful people! —•>— A convention was held on Monday and Tuesday at our Hall by the 4ocal members of the Forward Movement. Large audiences attended, and some eloquent addresses and exhortations were delivered at every meeting. Arrangements had also been made to provide the visitors with food at the ante- rooms, and everything passed off in the most satisfactory manner.

Tmm Always B 'ELEY' on a cartridge's the jp

BOARDS OF GUARDIANS CARMARTHEN A meeting of the Carmarthen Board of Gu- ians was held at the Board Room on Saturday. Rev. A. Fuller Mills (chairman of the Board) pre- sided. There were also present: Messrs D. H. Davies,; Mr W. Williams, Abergwili; T. Davies, Abernant! B. Phillips, Conwil; D. Farr Davies, and W. Harries, Llanarthnev; J. W. Lewis, Llan- ddarrog; J. Bowen, Llangunnock; James Thomas, Llanddowror; Evan Williams, Llanfihangel-Aber- cowin; David Thomas, Llangain; John Lewis, Llangendeirne: Llewelyn Morgan, Llanginning; Daniel Davies, Llanllawddog; T. Davies, Llan- pumpsaint; John Francis, Lanstephan: Richard Lewis, Llanwinio; T. Davies, Merthyr; D. Davies, Newchurch; D. John, St. Clears; John Jones, St. Ishmael; J. S. Williams, Trelech; T. Williams; J. Patagonia Lewis; T. Thomas, St. Peter. REPORTS. The Master in his fortnightly report stated "Divine service was conducted at the House on Sunday, the 11th, by the Rev. W. D. Rowlands, Water-street C.M. Church, and on Sunday, the 18th inst., by Mr Gwilym Morris for Penuel Baptist Church. The number of inmates in the house on the last day of the week was 91 against 98 for the corresponding period last, year; the number of casual paupers relieved during the fort- night was 116 against 129 for the same period last year. I have the pleasure to report having re- ceived the following gifts: Mrs Delme Davies- Evans, Penyan, toys for the chidren; Mr A. J. Hodges, Carlyhurst, toys for the children; the Girl Guides, per Miss Williams, Napier House, cake for the children; Miss Jennings, formerly of Gellideg, and Mrs Morris, Coomb, Christmas cards: Miss Ketley, Tanners Arms, periodicals; a friend, periodicals: Mre Lawren, "Reporter" Office, mottoes for decoration; Mr Williams, "Welshman" Office, mottoes for decoration; Prin- cipal Evans, Greenhill, evergreens; Mr Spurred, King-street, cards and mottoes. Other gifts will be acknowledged next Board meeting. The House Committee met "is morning and made the follow- ing recommendations with regard to the nursery: "To provide three new cots, inlaid linoleum for two rooms and the passage, two tables, and two chairs. The Master to get an estimate from three tradesmen to be submitted to the next meeting of the Board." OUTDOOR RELIEF. The reports of the relieving officers for the fort- night ended on the previous Board Day showed the amount expended on outdoor relief to be as fol- lows 1st week: 957 paupers, a decrease of 22, as com- pared with tho corresponding week last year; ex- penditure, JE156 lis 5d, an increase of JE16 8s 7d. 2nd week: 923 paupers, a decrease of 43; ex- penditure, £129 7s 6d, a decrease of J61 5s. The Treasurer's Report showed the balance on the previous .Board Dac to have been £3,205 15s. 9d. A LUCID EXPLANATION. The following letter was received from a collier whose three children were in the workhouse:—"I have .received from you for the maintenance of my three dear and affectionate children in Carmarthen Union. I am very sorry I could not fulfil and pay the bill of 10s., what was due. The reason was I have been bad and only worked 2 days, and if it will please your honour I will pay the bill as soon as possible, for believe me really I have been put into such a bad industrial and social state un- til I do hardly know what to do when I do think and compare the past and present of mv life. 1 goes into such pschological state that.I don't know what to do for when I was struggling hard to keep a home for me and my lieele children they did interfere with me prematurely so by trying to re- form matters thing's is .gone morally impossible and beyond any reform for it do vexed me terribly to think that my little children is in the Union when they should be with me, and I am not of any industrial and social and familiar connection, and I am absolutely out of any protection at all. the only thing I got presently is life, and that is no good to me nor to any body else, and so please pardon me this time, and be patiently for I do in- tend to do one more effort to establish a home for me and my children." The matter was referred to the Maintenance Committee. Mr Benj. Phillips said that the amount given in relief would be greatly decreased by the Old Age Pensions now. Would the relieving officers be willing to take less salary? The Chairman—Wait and see. The Master read a report from the Rev A. Fuller Mills, who stated that he had visited the house on the 13th inst., and found everything satisfactory. An applicaion was received from the porter who wanted Sunday leave. He said that before he came there he had been accustomed to attend a nlace of worship on Sunday. The Chairman said that surely in a Christion countrv a man was entitled to part of the Sun- day off at any rate. Here was a man who used to attend n place of worship and Sunday School now deprived of the means since he entered the service c-f the Board. It was decided to refer the matter to the House Committee. THE ABERGWILI TROUBLE. A letter was read from three overseers at Aljer- gwili, who stated that the assistant-overseer had refused to hand them over the books and they therefore could not be responsible for the rates. The Clerk (Mr J. Saer)-They are responsible in any case. It is for them to settie their differences. Mr D. H. Davies said that he knew that manv people had refused to pay their rates because the overseers had not called. Mr Benj. Phillips said that the Parish Council and the overseers were at loggerheads. Mr J. P. Lewis said that he was told that pres- sure was being put on the people not to pay the rates. He believed that it was the law that the overseers must pay up in any case. Mr W. Williams asked who was putting on the pressure. Mr J. P. Lewis said that he was not going to mention names, but he knew it fora fact. Mr Bowen—That is a matter for them to settle amongst themselves. The Chairman suggested that the Clerk should write to give them notice. The Clerl-I have given them three notices.

LLANDILO The fortnightly meeting of this Board was held at the Shire Hall on Saturday. Col. Morris pre- sided, and there were also present Mr W. R. Thomas (vice-chairman), R.ev. J. Alban Davies, Mrs M. A. Jones, and Messrs Henry Herbert, D. Davies, R. Matthews, W. Hopkins, W. Williams, Daniel Watkins (Llanfihangel), L. N. Powell, J. Lewis, Jacob Davies, Gomer Harries, J. Morgan, D. Thomas. W. Roberts, Dan Davies, Evan Davies, J. P. Griffiths, ,D. Watkins (Llwydcoed), and Mr. Lewis Bowen: the clerk, Mr R. Shipley Lewis, and deputy-clerk, Mr D. Jones Morris, and the other officials. TREATS. Mr Herbert Peel asked for permission to give his usual New Year's dinner to the inmates. It was decided to accept the generous offer, and a vote of thanks was accorded to the kind donor. RESIGNATION. Miss Gwen Thomas, the assistant matron, and Miss Jane Jones, cook at the Workhouse, both tendered their notices to ieave the service of the Board, to expire January 21st. The Master said that the assistant matron was only appointed a month ago. The Chairman said he was sorry to see them re- sign in that manner. They thought they had now a woman to stay as assistant matron. The former assistant was there some years. Mr Evan Davies wanted to hnow if it was too much to ask what the reason was for the resigna- tions ? Mr Jones also asked the reason servants left their employ. One had been there for years; the other only a month. They sent to ask for a day off a month. Had that anything to do with it? Mr Evan Davies repeated his question. The Master said the reason was that they were not willing to fall in with the views of the Board. They had appointed a little girl to assist, and they resented it and told the matron so. Mr L. N. Powell moved that the resignation be accepted and that the Board take the usual course to fill the vacancies. Mrs Jones said she had forgotten they resented the action of the guardians. The Master said that as soon as they heard of the Board's appointment they sent up to protest to the dav-room and one of them dressed up as a pauper. The Matron told them she could not help it. They had to fall in with the views of the Board. The subject then dropped. TENDERS. T enders were accepted for ensuing quarter as follows:—Milk, M. James, Tregeyb Arms; fresh meat.. Mr Wm Stephens. Llandilo: butter, Is 2d per lb, and cheese, 5, Mr James Davies, Pentrecwn; coal, Ammanford Red Vein, 17s per ton; Mr Rhydderch Davies, firewood 12s 4h per ton, Mr William Davies, Llandilo; grooeries, Mr Thomas Lewis, American Stores, Llandilo. APPLICATION FOR INCREASE OF SALARY. An application by Mr Rees Davies, rate collec- tor for Cwmamman, for an increase of salary, was under consideration, and dealt with. Appli- cant stated that owing to a great increase in the work he would feel greatly obliged if they acceded to his application. He had been collector for 20- years. When he last made an application for a rise the number of assessments were 857. To-day they stood at 1,108, an increase of 251. He had to call at ever yhose, and often two or three changes took place in th'e year. He had to go in all directions to find out as to the present addresses of those who had removed. His distri't extended from Pantyffvnon to Cwmgorse. His salary was y JB56 a year or ,4s. per week, and out of it he had to pay all his travelling expenses. His salary was below what was paid in adjoining districts. He suggested for the future Ii per cent. commission cr 4 3d in the J6. The ratepayers hoped the rates would soon be reduced. The Clerk read a return of salaries paid in ad- joining unions, and Pontardawe paid 4d to 6d, 2 and Llandovery went up to 9d. Mr Gomer Harries said he noticed that neither of the local guardians were present. A Member-hat about the collector? He pro- posed that they postpone the consideration of the matter. The Chairman did not think it would be fair to keep the man in suspense. It was the Board's business to consider the matter. He strongly ob- jected to an adjournment for a fortnight, and pro- posed that they should go into the question. Replying to an observation by Mr Evan Davies, the Clerk said that Pontardawe was an industrial district. Mr L. N. Powell proposed that-they adopt Mr Davies' suggestion of a poundage of 3d in the E. Rev. Alban Davies seconded. Mr Gomer Harries asked how Mr R. Davies was paid compared with others? The Clerk said that he had shown by the returns that he was not paid anything like others Mr Evan Davies remarked that Mr Gomer Har- ries wanted to give him more than he asked for. Replying to Mr Watkins, Llanfiliangel. the Chairman said the Parish Council wanted to post- .,i,onei flio matter until Cwmamman had urban powers. In that case they might have to wait until the last trump was sounded. After further discussion. Mr Mathews proposed tnat he be paid B50 a year. The Chairman said that Bettws was an industrial parish and went up year by year. Mr Mathews said he was perfectly willing that it should be put up higher provided that if the rates went down his salary went down at the same time. He urged that they should have something uniform to go upon. In the result the motion that he should be paid at the rate of 3d. in the £ was carried. PUBLIC VACCINATORS. There was some talk with reference to Dr. Mor- gan and Dr Hughgg, Ammanford, both of whom hold appointments as public vaccinators under the Board. The Chairman isaid that Dr Hughes had been appointed medical officer of health for the county, and he understood that Dr. Morgan had opened a practice at Llandovery. Under the circumstances he suggested that both should be called upon to send in their resignations. It was decided that the Clerk should write to both to that effect.

Rural District Council A. meeting of this body was held later. Mr. Thomas Davies, Tynycwm, the chairman, presided. PWLLAUCOCHION BRIDGE. The report of the committee re Pwllaucochion Bridge was submitted and adopted. It will be recalled that a portion of the structure was swept away by a recent flood. The committee expressed dissatisfaction with the bridge and recommended the construction of a bridge of a larger span. WHEN SHOULD STONES BE LAID ON THE ROADS? There was a good deal of discussion on this sub- ject and the delay of the contractors in deliver- ing the stones. One of the members suggested that in the event of the stones not being supplied within the specified time that the surveyors should be penalized on their salaries. Col. Morris said he strongly objected to this system of fines on officials. In the United States obho.yi had a system of fining subordinates, but there was a safeguard. Originally the fine was fixed so high that they exceeded the salaries. It was afterwards reduced to ten per cent. on their salaries. If their surveyors were gned on the rate which had been just proposed they would find not only that the whole of their salaries would be absorbed but that they would still be indebted to the Council. Mr Evan Davies said that the suggestion was that the surveyors should fine the contractors if they neglected their duty, and if they (the sur- veyors) englected their duty they should be fined. The Chairman said that the Council should re- serve that power in their own hands. Let them (the surveyors) bring the names of the defaulters there. Mr Evan Davies said there was a clause already in the contracts providing for fining. Mr Gomer Harfies urged that the surveyors should insist on having the roads completed in prover time. They were complaining as to the state of the roads in his district consequent to neirlect on the part of contractors. Mr Evan Davies was of opinion that it was very foolish to delay the relaying of the roads till the frost came on and the days were short. He sug- gested that they should get them relaid in time by starting on the 1st of October. He had con- tracted for the laying of thousands of tons of stones and had been able to complete the work in time. and he failed to see why others could not do so. Why could not the stones be broken in the summer? It would be better for this Council in the end to have stones ready from one year for the next. Mrs Jones concurred. Mr W. Williams said the time was fast ap- proaching when they would have to provide depots for the storage of the stones. WATER COMMITTEE'S REPORT. rii(, joint water committee's deliberations were under notice. Mr Jacob Davies said it was very unfair that in a portion of their district water was 10s per house and in the other portion El 4s. It was, he alleged, due between Mr Herbert and the Am- manford Urban Council, and it was very unfair that Ammanford should be allowed' to tap the main in the Llandebie district. He suggested that the joint committee should meet again and that this Council should get the legal opinion of its Clerk on the subject. Col. Morris said that, the Ammanford people would stick to their rights so far as they were legally entitled, and as to certain agreements entered into with certain landowners as to ease- ments. It was a very difficult question. A member said he was very glad to hear the Colonel speak. He hoped Ammanford would be equally ready to respect the rights of other coun- cils (laughter). Other matters were considered.

I y THOUSANDS Of ItoothVacre \\fcL AMD »■ Ig/wwww t ^^NEURALQl/n^Sg5 ■IHBC——MAHUfACTXHtr I POWDERS Promptly arrests QUINSY AND COLDS -w-

The King has been pleased to award the Edward Medal of the second-class to Mr. John Evans, an engine driver in the employ of the North-Eastern Railway Company, who, seeing a child in the four- foot way in front of the train he was driving, shut off steam and jumped oif the moving engine, mana- ging to reach the child and fall back with her in his arms clear of the rails before the engine reached the spot.

DRINK HAYDN'S GINGER BEEB IT WILL DO YOU GOOD. v- cam =^= • IN THE EMPIBE. UNDER THE FLAB. Whole Counties Given Away. HOMESTEADS OF 160 ACRES EACH GIVEN FREE BY CANADA (BRITAIN'S NEAREST OVERSEAS DOMINION) DURING BIGHT MONTHS EQUAL IN AREA NINE' BRITISH COUNTIES. 20TH CENTURY IS CANADA'S YOUR CHANCE OF A HOME AND A COMPETENCE. Place Yourself and Your Moneg There. WORK FOR ALL FARM LABOURERS AND DOMESTIC SERVANTS. For free maps, pamphlets and full particulars, apply to Mr. A. McOWAN,Canadian Government Emigration Agent, 81 Queen Street, Exeter; or to Mr. J. OBED SMITH, Assistant Superintendent of Canadian Emigration, 11 and 12 Charing Cross, London, S.W.

LLANDOVERY EISTEDDFOD A very successful eisteddfod was held at the Drill Hall on Boxing Day. The president was the Mayor (Mr. J. C. V. Pryse-Rice, Llwynybrain). Conduc- tors, Dr. T. E. Thomas, The Manse, pastor of the Memorial Chanel, and the Rev. H. Ivor James, pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Chapel. Adjudicators- Music, Mr. E. Telorydd Nicholas, Ystalyfera; reci- tations, Mr. Lewis Roderick, D.C., Cilycwm; essays and letters, Dr. T. E. Thomas and the Rev. D. Rhydderch, B.A., Llandovery. Accompanist, Miss M. A. Davies, Portland House. The hon. secretary was Mr. D. R. Williams, New White Lion, Llan- dovery, and the treasurer, Mr. George Morgan, D.C., Ystradwalter. The different items were as follows:— To the choir, not under 20 in number, which will best render "Mai" (John Thomas); three choirs competed, viz., Salem, Llandovery; Tabernacle, Llandovery, and Cwmdwr, Halfway—1, Tabernacle, Llandovery. „ Male Voice Party, not under 12 or over 16 in number, that will beet render "Myfanwy" (Dr.. Joseph Parry). The competing parties were Llan- dovery, Llangadock, and Cynghordy-l, Llandoverv (conductor, .Mr. Isaac Harries). Children's Choir not under 20 in number, nor over 16 years of age. Test piece, "Mis y Blodau" (Kate- Parry)— Rhandirmwyn (conductor, Mr. Lewis). Champion solo, open to any voice-Prize: divided, between Mr. T. P. Jones, Neath, and Mr W. Rees, Cardiff. Soprano solo, "Ynys y Plant"—Winner, Miss- Mary Gwen Price, Pengoylan. Contralto solo, "Adlais v dyddiau"-I, Emilv M. Davies, Gwynfe. Tenor solo, "Hyd fedd hi gar yn gywir"-I, J. Griffiths, Gwynfe. Baritone solo, "Y Gwladgarwr"-I, Mr. William Mathias, Cwmdwr. Solo for girls under 16, "What will vou do with, Jesus? —Divided between Miss Maggie Williams, New-road, and Miss Mary Williams, High-street. Solo for boys under 16, "Beyond"-I, Willie. Morgan, Ystradwalter. Champion recitation, from Eben Fardd—1, David Morgan, Cwmgorse. Recitation—1, Miss Lizzie Williams, Star and Garte. Recitation for thos) under 16, "Y Cardotya"-I.. Miss Jane Thomas ,15, Orchard-street; 2, divided between Miss Mary Williams, High-street, and Miss Gretta Thomas, Tonteg Villa. Best essay on the Sunday School Teacher—1, Mr. Ben Jones, postman, Halfway. Best letter from a Sunday School Teacher—Rees- Lewis. Winner's address did not transpire.

AWFUL CHRISTMAS CALAMITIES SCOTCH EXPRESS WRECKED. BODIES CHARRED BEYOND RECOGNITION- The Christmastide, already overshadowed by the- shocking colliery disaster in Lancashire, is further- saddened by a ghastly railway tragedy in Westmore- land. On the Midland Railway, the 'Scotch express from London was hastening towards the border on Satur- day morning when, at about 6 o'clock, it crashed into two light engines proceeding in the same direc- tion. The scene of the collision was Arsgill Moor, a desolate spot in the Pennine range, and one of the highest points reached by any of the English main lines. At the moment of the impact the light engines were travelling at about 20 miles an hour. Struck by the express, which had a speed of 60 miles, they were hurled off the track. Both engines of the. express were wrecked and derailed and the front coaches of the train telescoped. One of the coaches was a dining-car, and this burst into flames, which quickly involved the whole train. An awful scene ensued. Despite strenuous rescue, efforts it was impossible to release many of the- passengers from the wreckage, and at least nine oE them were burnt to death. A young married; couple, Mr. and Mrs. James Gray, on their way from Hampshire to Glasgow to spend Christmas with their friends, had to endure the terrible ordeal of seeing their five months' old baby burned before their eyes, the frenzied father being with difficulty prevented from sharing its fate in his efforts to save his child. The whole appalling tragedy was completed with startling sw!ttness. Gas reservoirs and oil and a brisk breeze made the fire marvellousiy fierce and swift in its deadly work. When all was over and the remains of the dead were brought out from the. wreckage, the horror was intensified by the fact that identification could only depend upon scraps of clothing and some slight belongings of the deceased, so completely had the bodies been consumed. But for the fire the collision would nrobablv have been attended with very little loss of life. 'About fifteen persons are reported injured, and of these only one. a fireman, named Wannop, was seriously hurt. Most of the passengers proceeded on their journey by a special relief train. The cause of the accident is unexplained, but it is- suggested that the signal wires may have broken. CHILDREN KILLED AT A CROSSING. SHOCKING AFFAIR AT BOLSOVER. A terrible fatality occurred on Christmas Eve at the important mining township of Balsover, Derby, when three children were killed and one seriously injured while attempting to pass the level crossing on the Great Central Railway. Bolsover is midway between Chesterfield and Mansfield, and through it passes the railway connect- ing DorbyshirS with the Dukeries and Lincoln. In the valley, under the shadow of Bolsover Castle; is the model mining village of Carrvale, built by the Bolsover Colliery Co., and it was at the level crossing at Bolsover that the tragedy occurred. A number of children had left a cinematograph show, and were crossing the Great Central R-ailwav on their way home, when they were run into by a passenger train. Three of the little ones were V,ML an°ther was seriously injured. While the children were streaming across, a passenger train from Chesterfield came rushing un, while on the other line a coal train approached from the Lincoln direction. The children were caught in a trap. Some of them managed to get out of the way of both trains, but the passenger train caught a num- ber of the terrified children, with the fatal results stated. The accident took place before the eves of hun- dreds of cnildreu and adults, and at first it ap- peared as if the death roll was even greater than it turned out to be One little boy's body was Dicked up in such a mangled condition as to be beyond recognition. The body was so crushed and mangled that the clothing afforded no clue to the little viet in's identity. Only his failure to return home will establish who he is.

Two children lost their lives in a fire which occurred at Mard just before midnight on Monday, and no less than eight houses were more or lees involved in the flames. Other lives were at one time in peril, and some exciting scenes were wit- nessed, one of the rescuers being injured in the brave efforts which were made. It was just half-an-hour before midnight that the outhbreak was discovered at 59, Pentre-road, Mardy, the house of a collier named Hutton, and it soon became evident that the conflagration would be a serious one, for the flames burned with such ferocity that they quickly spread to the adjoining houses.