Papurau Newydd Cymru
Chwiliwch 15 miliwn o erthyglau papurau newydd Cymru
8 erthygl ar y dudalen hon
EVEN UNTO DEATH. ¡
{Copyright.) EVEN UNTO DEATH. ¡ BY PHILIP L. VIVIAN A '1 "Father, for Blessed Mary's sake, ye won t him! } Wild. savage faces glared in the torchlight down upon the prostrate form which the cruel sea hat cast at their feet-the one survivor of the ship that had gone down among the rocks out yonder. And the wreckers were angry and disappointed; for the treacherous currents had sucked in those who were not entombed in the foundered ship, and this was their only prey-a handsome fellow, too, with dark curly hair and finely-cut features. And his clothes were good; his watch and rinzs the wreckers had taken already; why not strip him and fling him back into the sea ? But the girl, "Dermot's girl." .s they called her,interposed,and the three wreckers paused, irresolute. Infamous though they were, they had all a certain dog-like respect for this fragile young creature of eighteen. She stood before them fearless, her flashing dark eyes fixed on her father's weather-beaten face. "Ye won't kill him!" she repeated. "Ye daren't. Ye've murder enough on your souls. For the sake of the clothes on him ye'11 red»3n yer hands again? Shaun," to the youngest of the men, "help me te carry him up to the cabin." Shaun glanced at his chief, but at an imperative gesture from the girl he stooped to raise the young man's shoulders. Then the third man came forward and relieved Conna, and together they carried the senseless man up the rocky little path to the cabin of Dermot 0'Hara,the wrecker, the old man follow- ing sulkily, and scolding his daughter as he went. But she paid no heed; she stepped up the path with her white teeth set like a vice, while the wild wind blew the rich chestnut curls about her. She was as lovely a. specimen of girlhood as painter could wish to paint; tall, slim, alert, with perfectly-moulded limbs, a wild, free grace in every movement, and a soul that lived in purgatory crying mutely in her .great black-fringed grey eyes. She had the wrecked man laid in the truckle-bed in her own chamber; it was rough-and-tumble enough, but better than the outer room, in which father and daughter lived, and the old man slept. Sometimes he would go out fisiiitig-fol lowing his ostensible calling; but there was plenty to do in his ghastly work on that dangerous coast, in this wild, secluded spot, far from prying eyes. As for Shaun, he simply did as Conna bade him do, and when, with his assistance, she had got the .patient in bed, she dismissed him curtly. She knew what to do, and hated the sight of the villain who robbed, aye, and murdered, helpless men. This man's case was easier than some; he had ttruck out boldly from thA foundered ship, but, caught by a huge wave, he was literally hurled on to the strip of rocky beach, and the blow stunned him. The gentlest of sisters of charity could not tare gone about her task of reviving the insensible man more tenderly than this wild girl of the Atlantic coast; and presently she was rewarded. The young man's lips moved then he slowly opened a pair of large dark brown eyes, and looked up languidly to the beautiful face above him. "Blessed Mary be praised!" she said softly. "Ye "Won't thry to spake yet, sir. Drink this She raised his head a little on her arm, and he drank, obediently, the diluted brandy she gave him. He was still duzy from the effects of the blow, and lay in a dreamy, semi-conscious state, watching Conna's picturesque figure, as it moved noiselessly about; he probably thought he was dreaming. He took the broth she presently brought him as obedi- ently as he had taken the brandy, but he looked at her very earnestly, and with a sort of wondering admiration, and tried feebly to touch her hand. She understood, and put her hand in his, and he smiled, and closed his fingers over hers. He was not dreaming, then ? This was really a creature of flesh and blood. When he had sunk into a tranquil sleep, Conna sought her father, and told him she was going to watch by the patient's bedside. "An' ye can go to bed," she said. "There'll be no more devil's work for ye to-night." "Howld yer tongue, girl! An' d'ye think," said 'the old man, "we'll let yon spalpeen go free to bethray us ?" "He'll not know what ye are she said boldly; an' ye'll not do harm to him, whatever happens." She turned back into the inner room, and her father grumbled himself to sleep. The girl's thoughts were full of trouble, as she ■at by the couch of the sleeping man. She had saved his life, but was it only for a time ? Her father had already sounded the note of impending danger. What was to prevent the rescued man, if allowed to go free, giving information about the wreckers ? He would certainly know it was a false light that lured the ship in which he was to destruction. The wreckers, if resolved to destroy the evidence against them, would take good care to provide against their victim's escape, and would take care that Conna did not contrive it. They knew she cared nothing for her own life; she had more than once threatened to take it with her own hand; she only endured the horrors of the life she was leading because she was sometimes able to save life. In the early morning the stranger awoke. He was Still weak, but perfectly clear in his mind, and eager to know what had happened, how he came to be where he was, gazing, as he spoke,"with grateful eyes into Conna's beautiful face, with an admira- tion, too, which, being somewhat veiled, she was too wimple-minded to notice. She told him that the ship in which he was had gone down with all hands, save hims?lf. "You were dashed on the beach, sir," she said, turning her face aside, "and some of the men about robbed you." He had covered his face, deeply overcome by hearing of the loss of all on board the vessel; he dropped his hand now, and stretched it towards her. "Robbed me ?" he repeated, huskily. "Aye, the wreckers who lured the Rowena on to the rocks- but not you !—not you Holy Mary forbid But she would not touch his outstretched hand. She rose quickly and went to the door, peeping through a chink into the kitchen. Had her father heard the stranger's words ? The old man was suspiciously near. Re- turning to the bed, and bending down as if to arrange the pillow,Conna said, under breath, "Don't spake about wreckers, for your life, sir; there's a many hereabouts." The man looked at her stea catcbing her hand in his. She met the look without flinching. "How was it they didn't kill me ?" he said slowly. "Was it you who saved me ? "Sure, yes," she said, quietly, trying to draw her hand away, but he drew it to his lips, kissing it reverently. "God reward you!" he whispered brokenly. "Tell me your name? "I'm Conna O'Hara, sir." And I am Derek Lyndon." "Conna!" called old Dermot, from the outer1 room. "Yes, father," she answered, then hastily to Lyndon, bending close to him: "For Blessed Mary's love,kape close wid me father—he's wanav them She vanished into the room, leaving Derek Lyndon face to face with a very ugly possibility. He was in a wrecker's cabin, then, in a place of which the, majority of the men probably followed the same infamous calling, and there was only this brave young girl between him and death. He had not even his pistol—the scoundrels had, of course, taken that -but, raising himself, he could see that his clothes had been left (Conna's doing, most likely), and among them his belt. The wreckers, then, had over- looked the most valuable of his possessions! By-and-bye old Dermot came in, and asked his v,guest how he was. Lyndon replied that be was mucn oetter, and would get up presently. "I shall be able to relieve you" your gentle daughter of mv presence to-dav." covfiffj^j^iyatching O'Hara's sinisreniom JL Hm I IP paid tim 10 wrecker, IN that's u it may .be.airf "They don't mean me to leave this place alive," said Lyndon to himself, when he was alone again. "But, by Heaven, I'll make a fight for my life." He raised himself, and listened. There was no one in the cabin. He sprang up and dressed him- self; excitement made him feel stronger than he really was. Was there no possibility of escape ? But CoRna !-thtV might visit his flight upon her He paused,and in that moment the door opened anff Conna herself appeared. "Misther Lyndon! she exclaimed, starting back in surprise, then sprang to his side, catching his arm. "Ye can't escape! she said hurriedly, it's all open, they will see you, an' they're on the watch. Ye must pretend to be wake an' ill; sit down here in the settle." "But, Conna, what good will that do P "It'll give me toime! she said, her dark eyes wild with terror, but never losing her presence of mind. "If they think you're helpless they may lave ye for a little. Quick! father's comin' back! There was only just time to obey her. Lyndon threw himself back in the settle, and when O'Hara came in, Conna was scolding the Englishman for getting up before he was strong enough. "An' ye've nearly fainted,ye have," she said, offering bim water, and he sipped it slowly, keeping up the appearance of weakness with admirable art. But an hour later O'Hara called his daughter out- side the cabin. "Look ye, Conna," he said, resolutely, "that spalpeen don't leave here alive. He'll go an' report that the Rowena was lured by a false light, an' anyhow, there'll be an inquoiry." "Father!" the girl said, with white lips, "Ye'll not murdhur a sick man! he can't do any harm- yet." "He'll be strong in a few days, an' thryin' to escape; an' if I spare him, Conna, the bhoys wouldn't—we know them; an' Shaun, he's jilous, bekase ye'll niver shpake to him, an' ye'll fuss about this handsome Sassenach!" Jealous! Conna, then; had to contend against that most cruel of passions! She knew it was useless to plead for anything more than a respite "Ye'll spare Misther Lyndon for a few days," she said, "till he's well." "An' you'll be up to thricks, eh ?" "I would if I could," she returned boldly, "but you know there's niver a chance! "If he eslicapes," said the old villain grimly,"I'd have no power to save your life, Conna!" "I'd give it for his! the girl muttered, as she turned back into the cottage. "I'll De glad to die when he's gone; they'll be koind that fling me over the cliffs. But they shan't murdher him I'll save him I'll save him yet." All the next day, all the next night, the girl's brains were working. She was hardly ever alone with Lyndon-O'Hara took care of that. She knew the cabin was watched by two men—Shaun being one of them; but a schema was working in her head. It was a bold one, but her father must be got rid of or silenced; the last could, perhaps, be accomplished. Dermot O'Hara was a patron of the shebeen, and not infrequently came home intoxi- cated, but, like most Irishmen, he could take a lot without being helpless. To-night he must be made helpless. By the evening Conna had her plans laid. At tea she remarked that she had seen "Pat Flaherty roarin' dhrunk wid the new stuff they had up at Sullivan's "—the shebeen. O'Hara pricked up his ears, and by and bye went out to sample "the crathur." Then Conna and the Englishman were alone. "It's blowin' up for a black night," she said, aloud at the door, and her keen eyes discovered Shaun lounging a little way off. She knew the other watcher was on the land side of the cabin. She shut the door, and went swiftly to Lyndon't side. "Misther Lyndon," she said, quick and low, "there's a chance for ye to-night. Father's gone to the shebeen; he' II come in dhrunk; I'll make him more dhrunk-till he goes to slape; tlien'll yell] put on some cf his clothes that I've got, an' we'll put him in your bed, in case Shaun comes in-an' he'll think it's you. You'll go out, stoopin' an' slouchin', bekase you're tall an' straight, sham- min' dhrunk, an' in the dark they'll think its father, an' I'll go a little way as if I'd stop you goin' back to the shebeen, and in case they'll tall to you, an' ye can't spake wid father's voice an' the Irish, I could answer. Then I'll shew you the road to escape, an' ye can get safe away. An' see here, sir, here's a matther of two shillins it'i all I've got, sir-honest money." But Lyndon caught her hands in his. "Child!" he said, hoarsely; "what is to becomf of you ? They'd kill you- "No, no-ah, sir! ye'll do't! Say yes-quick Shaun may be looking' in "I'll say yes, if you come with me, Conna-n01 otherwise." He flung his arm round her, and drew her to him. "What'll I do to come wid you she said, clasp. ing her hands against his breast in passionatf entreaty. "You'd be safer alone, and if they killec me-why that's no matther; its a dhreadful life, mine is! Ah! ye'll go, sir, for the love of Mary.' "You've saved my life once, Conna," Lyndor said, still holding her close; "and now you are lay- ing down your own life for my sake. Do you thinl I can accept such a sacrifice? Come with me; you'll be safe; you'll trust me, Conna." "Aye, sir, III thrust you—but its no use m< comin'. Take the money, sir—if ye will—hist! t step—'tis Shaun! Misther Lyndon," she said it agony, "say ye'll go—promise "I promise! he said, with a sudden thought, and released her; but he let her force the money into his hand. When Shaun looked in, Conna was busy oveJ some household work, and Lyndon was lounging or the settee, apparently half asleep. By-and-by O'Hara came in, far from sober, anc Lyndon, appearing to be very weary; retired intc the inner room. But every sense was keenly on the alert. Gradually the old man's chatter ceased, and a heavy snoring succeeded. Then, after a pause, the door opened, and Conna appeared, with a bundle of clothes in her hand. "Here's the change," she said, "put them ovet what ye have on. Father's sound." In a few minutes the fisherman's garb was assumed; and together Lyndon and Conna carried the slumbering wrecker into the inner room, laid him in the bed, and covered him right over. "Shaun's not near the door," Conna whispered, "an 'Pat's at the back." It was now about ten o'clock, and very dark and mindy. Lyndon, acting his part, flung open the door and staggered out, with a stooping gait, Conna following, with her heart in her throat. "Hillo!" called Shaun, "at it agin', Dermot!" "None o' yer meddlin', Shaun," returned the girl readily. "Aye, but I'll kape close watch," said Shaun, "lest the spalpeen thry to eschape." Another minute and the ngures of the old man and the girl were lost in the darkness. "This way, sir," Conna said—"quick! an' we'll be in the woods." Dark though it was she guided her companion unerringly. Even in the blackness of the wood she seemed to know the way, and scarcely a word was spoken until they reached the outskirts, a nd the open country lay before them. Then Conna stopped, choking down the sob in her throat, and speaking bravely: "That is the road, sir," she said, pointing ahead; "kape it straight, an' ye'll come to Ballybeg. It's about five miles. Go to Father Doolan, the priest, an' he'll befrind ye. Grooa-Dy, sir; uiwsve Asonp 1 kape you, sir." I "Blessed Mary and all saints desert me if 1 desert you," said Lyndon. "I never meant to do it, Conna." He threw his arms round her, holding faer I fast. "You'll come with me, or I go right back and give myself up to those men. Brave, faithful, noble girl! I don't need what you gave me, dear; I have money in this belt. I took your generous offering for a keepsake—a talisman." "Let me go!" Conna gasped." "Ah! sir, ye break me heart, thriflin' wid time. Go, sir, go "I'd break my heart to leave you, Conna," the man said deep and low; and he bent his head and laid his lips to hers. For a minute she clung to him ¡ in a delirium of happiness; then she tried to free herself. "Ye wouldn't mane me wrong, air," she sobbed. "I'll die aisy now, since ye love me "You'll live for me, Conna. Wrong you ? No! No! you'll be my wife, darling "Your wife! You're mad to say it! You a gintleman, an' I a poor girl, an' me father a wrecker." I "Hush, Conna, hush! I love you, and you love me; that's answer enough. I am rich, dear. I'll put you to a convent school; in a year or two no one will dream that my Irish bride was born a peasant. Come! we "niv I,- fr)Unwd." Once more he pressed his lips on hers, and this time Conna yielded utterly, and let him lead her out with him on to the road that was to take them to safety and happiness. No one to-day dreams that Derek Lyndon's oeautiful wife was peasant born. When and how aer husband met her is not exactly known; but he us said that she saved his life—would have laid lown her own for him. It is easy for those who mow her to believe that of her, easy to understand Mr husband's almost ideal worship of her. But no )ne can know, as he does, the priceless worth of Ibis woman who loved him "even unto death." WISE AND OTHERWISE. A "growing "business.—Farming. How she knew.—He:" I'm growing a moustache." She: "So someone told me." "I make my living from the soil," said the farmer. "And so do I," said the washlady. She: "Writing for the press is thankless work. Ij it not II" He: "No; everything I write is returned with thanks." He: "Where ignorance is bliss 'tis folly to be wise." She (enviously); "My, my, how supremely blissful you ought to be." "They tell me, Professor, that you have mastered all the modern tongues." Professor: "All but two my wife's and her mother's! Mr. Gruffly: "It is very disagreeable to me to tell people unpleasant truths." Mr. Candid: "I expect it is unpleasant for you to tell truths of any sort. The letter B is like some men We very often see, Because, although it is in debt, It hadn't ought to be. She: "I hope it isn't my twenty thousand that you're after, George?" Mr. Grasper: "Believe me —no, darling. I'd marry you if you had only nineteen thousand." Ellen: "Habits are hard things to break." Maud: "Yes, indeed, there's Minnie Sereleaf, who formed ) the habit of being twenty-two some years ago and has never broken it yet." Awkward.—Husband: "Awfully sorry I'm so late, dear. Been detained on business with Charlie Newcome all the evening." Wife: "Yes, darling' Mr. Newcome has been waiting here for you since nine." A day of enjoyment.—Mr. Gabber: "Where's Mrs. Gabber?" Servant: "Somebody told her an important secret this morning, and she has been out all day goiog from house to house visiting her all day going from house to house visiting her friends." Wife: "An phwy do yez be takin' thim pills when yez are well again?" Husband: "Faith, would ye be afther liavin' me let a shilling's worth of pills go to waste ? It's a thriftless family Oi married into, sure." Now seated on the beach or bluff, When day to night her reign doth render, The fisherman tells stories touch, The ardent lovers stories tender. r Judge: "Well, sir, what have you got to say for yourself ? You're a fine-lookiDg subject." Prisoner: "Fact is, judge, I was on the dock wait- ing for the steamer and Judge: "Yes, and took several schooners; 5dol. and costs. Next." Knew what it was.—"Absalom, my son, what was that note the messenger just brought you ? inquired old man Clamwhooper. "Nothing in par- ticular, father, only a billet-doux from a friend." "Indeed, how much did he say there was deux ?" The man who stood the drink: "Why did you take to the stage ? Candid ex-histrion: Because I was egged on by ambition." The man who stood the drink: "And why did you quit the stage?" Candid ex-histrion: "Because I was egged off by the audience." Assistant (to employer):" What shall I mark that new lot of black silk at?" Employer: "Mark the selling price 8s. 6d. a yard." Assistant: "But it only cost 3s. a yard!" Employer: "I don't care what it cost. I am selling off regard- less of cost." "Oh, give me the wings of a dove," she sang, At church, as before me she sat, On looking around at the others I found She wanted it to wear on her hat. She: "Henry is such a simpleton. He's like the ostrich that hides his head in the sand and then thinks that nobody can see him." He: "Oh, but that isn't a bit like Henry." She: "Why, you know how indiscreet he is." He: "Yes; but he hasn't got the sand." Jasper: "See how that little boy is looking at the green apples on that tree. He has designs on them. Will that man driving by in the gig stop him?" Jumpuppe: "No; for the man who is driving by in that gig has designs on the boy. He is the village doctor." Hobbs and Dobbs were discussing men who stammer. "The hardest job I ever had," said Hobbs, "was to understand a deaf and dumb man who stammered." "How can a deaf and dumb man stammer ? asked Dohbs. "Easily enough," re- plied Hobbs; "he had rheumatism in his fingers." Little Hans had a picture-book given him on his birthday. Suddenly he came running to his mother, and said: "Mamma, do animals know what they are called?" "No." Hans uttered a sigh of relief, and remarked: "It would have been so unpleasant for the donkey, wouldn't it ? When the girls are ugly babies then their mammas quite insist That they against our wishes shall be kissed, kissed, kissed. But when the girls are sweet sixteen their mammas say they sha'n't, And though we'd like to kiss them then, we can't, can't, can't. A vagrant, on being brought before the beak, wept so bitterly as to evoke the sympathy of the worthy magistrate, who kindly inquired: "Have you been out of work for a long time?" "Ever since my poor mother died." "How old were you at the time?" "Eighteen months, your worship." Unreasoning doubt.—"Your father is worth a million ?" said he to his jealous sweetheart. "Yes, he is," she replied. "And you are his only child?" he impressively said. "I am," she re- sponded. "And yet you doubt that I am true to you ?" be cried in tones of blended satire and sorrow." Principal: I have to send you on a very im- portant errand, one demanding the greatest secrecy. Say, Mr. Meier, can I rely upon you ? Are you able to keep a secrst?" Clerk: "Oh certainly. (Whispering in principal's ear). 1 have been secretly engaged to your daughter for the last couple of years." Mormon elder (to shoe-dealer): "I want to get a pair of shoes for my wife." Shoe-dealer: "Yes, sir. What number, please ? Mormon elder: "Seventeen." Shoe-dealer: "Seventeen! Great Brigham, sir, we haven't shoes that large." Mor- mon elder (sternly): "I'm not speaking of the number of the shoe, sir, but of the number of the wife." A broad hint. Jeems," said the laird one day to his gardener, "there was something I was going to ask you, but, man, for the life of me, I canna mind what it was." Mabbe," said Jeems, who had received no pay for three weeks, "mebbe," said he, "it was to speir at me fat wey I was keeping body and soul :theaither on the wages I wjsna gettin' I
Pontypridd Local Board.
Pontypridd Local Board. The ordinary meeting of this Board was held on Friday last when there were present Messrs D. I.eyshon (chairman), H. Bramwell, J. Snape, T. Taylor, T. O. Brown, James Roberts, it. T. Richards, P. Gowan, H. M. Rowland, and L. G. Lenox, together with the clerk (Mr H. LI Grover), the medical officer (Dr Howard Davies) and Mr Rees, surveyor. I SEWERAGE CONNECTIONS.—Mr Snape asked whether any notice had been taken of the way in which some of the ratepayers connected their drains with the main sewer. He had noticed that some people employed anyone to do the job, whether they were competent to do the work or not, and it would be much better for the Board to do the connections themselves than allow these people to do them. They could then charge the ratepayers with the expense, and the work could be done quite as cheaply. — Several of the members believed that they had no power to compel the ratepayers to have the work done by the Board. All they could say was that the work sbou!d be done to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.—Mr Gowan thonght that the Inspectors were good enough to see that the work was carried out in a proper manner.-It was resolved that all rate- payers shculd give 48 hours notice to the Surveyor of any connections they contemplated making. BAD GAS.—Mr Lenox asked why the Gas was worse now thaR it was when the old gas company had the whole control. It was on Sunday night last he noticed the worse gas he had ever seen, and they ought to see the cause of it. It was a waste of money for light.—The Chairman You are one of the committee that look after the gas. (Laughter.) Mr Brown: It's no use for us to go for any information to the committee. (Renewed laughter.) THE NEW GAS WORKS.—The Clerk read a letter from Mr Newbiggin with regard to the new gas works, of which he is the architect, and suggestmg that a clerk of works should be appointed without delay to look after the erection of the tank, and concluding by saying that he would send down his assistant to get out a plan at once.—Mr Roberts asked what had been done with regard the hand- ing over of the land.—The Clerk: We shall have the contract very shortly.-The Chairman There will be no danger in taking the land.—Mr Richards: You must decide that with me.-On the motion of the Chairman, seconded by Mr Roberts it was resolved that Mr Newbiggin should be asked to come and see the land and that the Clerk be instructed to communicate with Mr Richards with regard to the purchase of the land. TAFF STREET IMPROVEMENTS.—Mr F. Gibson, architect, waited upon the Board with regard to the plans for the improvement of the Butcher's Arm's Hotel and he thought it would be wise on his part to see the Board with regards to the fringe oi land between the Hotel and the river, so that some arrangement should be made with a view of having the road widened at the spot. It was intended by so doing to extend the line of frontage of the Butchers Arms as far as the present pave- ment and have it in a line with the bridge. The Board's assistance would however be required to have the road widened because Mr John Evan's shop wold have to be put back in order to widen the road.—Mr Leyshon: That is a very good suggestion.—Mr Roberts Would you carry on the improvement if we deal with Mr John Evans.—Mr Gibson Oh yes, we don't wish to throw the building back unless the frontage line can be obtained as far as the bridge and to the bank.—Mr Roberts: You are asking for a very big thing.—Mr Gibson: We shall do the work pro- vided you make terms with Mr Evaus to have his building thrown back.—Mr Snape It would be a great improvement if it could be done.—Mr Gowan: It is well worth considering.—Mr Roberts: You are asking us to go into a heavy outlay.—Mr Gibson: I would rather ask you to enter into negotations with Mr John Evans.—Mr Lenox: His room is already limited.—Mr Roberts thought the best spirit had prompted Mr Gibson.—Mr Gibson asked the Board to consider the question by the next meeting, and it was eventually resolved that the Public Works Com- mittee should meet Mr Gibson on the spot next Monday. GIRDERS FOR THE SLAUGHTERHOUSE.—A letter was read from the contractors for the supply of girders for the new slaughterhouse, stating that the firm could not supply English iron and steel for the price quoted. If English steel and iron was required then the firm would wish to be paid £ 30 more for the lot already sent. After some dicussion Mr Lenox moved that the stuff sent should be accepted, but that in future the Board not accept iron or steel of foreign make. This was seconded and agreed upon. OBSTRUCTING FOOTPATHS.—A letter was read I from the Pontypridd Chamber of Trade calling attention to the inconvience caused by the obstruction of footpaths. For some time past there had been a considerable interference with traffic in the various parts of the town owing to obstructions, and the Chamber asked the Board to take steps to stop obstructions.-It wos also com- plained th-et a number of brakes obstructed the roads in various parts of the towm.—The Surveyor said he had applied for summonses against Messrs Griffiths and Julian for obstruction, but these were not heard on the previous Wednesday, it being licencing day at court.-The Clerk was ordered to reply to the effeet that the matter would receive attention. STABLE DOORS.—The Clerk explained that the Board had a right to have stable doors closed on the inside, but if plans had been passed by the Board allowing the doors to open outwards then the Board would have to bear the expanses. They would also have to bear the expense if the stables had been erected before the Board was formed.—The Surveyor was instructed to look into I the matter and if he found that plans had been passed allowing the doors to open into the street or otherwise to report thereon. IMPROVEMENTS.—Mr Snape called attention to certain improvements needed in rtbe Trallwn Gardens, and it was decided that the contractor should proceed with the work without delay. THE MAIN ROADs.-It was reported that the County Council refused to sanction the payment of the sum of money due to the Board for repair- ing the main roads unless the work of improving the road was carried out.—The Survevor said that the work was now being proceeded with.—Mr Roberts remarked that it was very unfortunate that this had not been done before the County Council met, for the Board was always at logger heads with the County Council with regard to the roads. BRAKES. Mr L. G. Lenox called the attention to the large number of brakes that were to be seen standing in the streets, and asked how many were allowed to stand.—Mr Taylor said they sometimes extended as far as Mr John Evans's shop.-The Clerk said the Board should call the attention of the Superintendant of police tc the matter saying how many would be allowed in different spots and it was agreed that this should be done. It was also resolved that brakes and cabs should be I examined in the first Tuesday and Thursday in October. THE EGLWYSILAN FOOTPATH.—Mr Roberts called attention to the way in which the footpath leading I from Pontypridd to the Aber Valley had been neglected. It used occasionally to be repaired by the Highway Board, and he believed the Local Board after taking it over should keep it in good order. The access to that neighbourhood was very bad and dangerous, and he believed they would be serving the interests of the town in spending a little money on the path. There were large min- ing operations :being "carried on in the Aber Valley, and people from this neighbourhood worked thereat, and if the Board gave facilities perhaps they would be able to draw a number of people to Pontypridd on a Market day for. this was the shortest route to Pontypridd from the Aber Valley.-It was resolved that some of the members should go over the path with the Sarveyor and report upon the matter at the next meeting. THE COST OF THE SEWERAGE.—The Surveyor in accordance with instructions reported that the additional work done in the sewerage, apart from the contract had cost £ 785 19s 2d, whilst there was work of the value of£509 12s 9d yet to be done making a total of extra vork of £1,295 198 9d. There would also be about JE90 worth of extras in connection with the contract. The amount paid up to the las'; meeting was £ 17,323 17s 21, and there was ab^ut £ 2,302 12s 9d still to be finished making a total of £ 19,625 19s lid. The amsunt of the contract was £ 19,881 7= 9d leaving a balance \\ben the work was completed of £255 7s lOi. There were E5,003 more money borrowed for the easements. TENDTSRS.—The following tender had been received for 103 gratings: Trealaw Foundei-y 6s. with 21 per cent. discount; Mr John Noel, 5/9 each Messrs Kvte and Co., 7s each Messrs Taylor and Gregory 7s each Mr D. E%-ans, Llan- daff, 7 *> each Gtvnderw Foundry, 6/6 par c.vfc Mr Morgan Charles, 7/6 each Messrs W. V. Rees and Co., 7jl-} each. On the motion of Mr Taylor, seconded by Mr Roberts, the tender of Mr Noel was accepted.—The following tenders had also been received for cast-iron ashbin*, six feet by two feet, and six feet deep: Mr Mjrga.i Ciiarles R21 5-3 Od Messrs Evans and Son. £7 each. On the motion of Mr Gowan, seconded by Mr Taylor, the tender of Mr Morgan Caarles was then accepted.
The incorporation Qassuan.
The incorporation Qassuan. A letter from the secretary of the Chamber of Trade was read at the last meeting of the Ponty- pridd Local Board, over which Mr David Leyshon presided, asking for a reply to a letter sent some time ago, the Incorporation Question. The Chairman said that the Chamber of Trade had discussed this question several times, and the Public Works Committee had recently considered the question. He quite agreed with the decision which the committee had come to, that the statistics should be printed and^irculated through the town in order that the inhabitants might know the advantages and disadvantages, if tnerj were any, of incorporating the town. Thus there would be a chance for people to see for them- selves what had better be done, and the thought the Board were pretty well unanimous on the question of helping the matter along. Mr Gowan; The committee discussed the question for fully three hours yesterday. Mr Roberts' The Board cannot help them financially The Chairman; No. The Clerk was therefore instructed to convey the decision of the Board io the Chamber of Trade.
The firaig Well.
The firaig Well. CONTAMINATED WITH FILTH. The deputation that waited upon the Local Board on Friday last, called attention to the recent action of the Board in closing the Graig Well. Councillor Spickett said they did not want to presume to criticize the Board, but a question had arisen with regard to the Graig Well and a reso- lution was passed. It appeared that some time ago the Graig well was found to be polluted and then a public subscription was got up, towards which the Chairman of the Board gave a hand- some donation; for the purpose of getting at the source of the trouble. The well had again been closed and the ratepayers would like to know whether the Board could see their wav clear to go again to thej soarcs and do away with what polluted the well, instead of closing it, for it was generally believed the well was a boon to the people living in that neighbourhood. It was well known that the water at the well was healthy, and if the contaminating influence could be done away with then it might again be made useful. He suggested that the pipes should be made to go to the source if it was possible. The Chairman, Mr David Leyshon said that some time ago there were a number of people laid up with Typhoid fever in that district, it was thought owing to the impurity of the water at this well. It was the duty of the Medical Officer to have the well examined, and the Inspector of Nuisances took samples of the water and had the same analysed. when it was proved that the water was not fit for drinking purposes. Consequently] the well was closed. If any water was impure, it was the duty of the Board to protect the people against it. Mr James Roberts said this was a matter for the ratepayers in the district. The Board could not spend money on a single source otherwise they would be putting another neighbourhood under a disadvantage. The owners of the property should see that their tenants are properly supplied with water. Mr Bramwell remarked that RII the Board could do would be to close the well if the waoer was impure. The Chairman observed that the owners of property should put a main up. The Board could not move in the matter. When the question was brought up before he did his best to have the support of the Board, but it wa.s found that they could not spend money from the rates in improv- ing the well. Dr Howard Davies pointed out that the well was situated in a piece of ground which had been tipped upon by all sorts of rubbish and refuse. When the well was closed before an attempt was made to get at the source by means of castiron pipes. If this was done then the pipes had not been properly sealed then the water would not be contaminated. Besides, he believed the rock was not a solid one. It was cracked—full of cracks— and if there were am closets, or sewers or pip-.s, in the neighbourhood that could go go into the crevices their contents could get into the well, but he did not believe that half the well water was connected, for anyone visiting the place could bear the waste water rushing under the pipe. The last job done there was not properly done. There was, however, no doubt but that the well was the source of Typhoid fever in the Graig and other places, for the analyst's report stated that it was contaminated with poision and sewerage matter. It was a shame that the water should be drunk in ignorance, but he could assure them the well had been the cause of six deaths from typhoid fever. In this case the Board should be firm and carry out their duty to the public. If the water could not be put right, then the owners of the property should have the water put in the houses. The water from Mardy was as far as he was aware quite pure, or at any rate he could trace no illness to it. Councillor Spickett remarked that the deputat- ion did not say that the Board had not done what they ought not to have done and did not say the Board was wrong. Dr Davies added that other wells had been closed and not a word had there been said against it. Mr Roberts stated that the water must be put in the houses before long for every closet would have to be Hashed with water. He believed the owners were very stupid in not having it put in at once. The Chairman said that when he was passing the spot the other day when the well was being closed, a number of women came around him and scolded him very much for what was being done, and he took steps at once and wrote to the Water Works Company asking that a stand pillar should be erected on the spot so that the people might get water. (Hear, hear.) A reply was received stat- ing that they would do so on condition that the Board would pay for the same and this the Board agreed to do. Councillor Spickett: I am sure, sir, that will be very much welcomed. Mr J. W. John called attention to some stench which emanated from a certain spot on the road and the Board promised that the matter would be attended to. Councillor Spickett then, on behalf of the Graig ratepayers, thanked the Board for the way in wh-eb the deputation had been received. On the motion of Mr James Roberts, seconded by Mr Gowan it was resolved that the owners of property in the Graig should should be called upoa to supply their houses with water without delay.
Advertising
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Eglwysilaa Scl-iii Board
Eglwysilaa Scl-iii Board The ordinary monthly meeting of this Board waa held on Monday last at the Coedpanmaen Board School when there were president Messrs D. Morris (in the chair), Rev J. Thomas, Rev S. R. Jones, Messrs John Morgan, Richards, Williams, ;') and Millward, together with Mr Thomas Thomas (clerk), and Mr T. Rowlands (architect). CENTRAL CLASSES.—A letter was read from thw,-tz father of one of the teachers at Ca,erphilly Schools asking the Board to allow his daughter to attend the central classes at Cardiff, which w^uld keep her away from school for two half days in the week. The young lady was in her fourth year, and was preparing for the scholarship examina- tion. The term would commence on September 30th, and the father of the young lady was pre- pared to pay the expense of keeping his daughter P, 11 at the central classes.-The Chairman thought this was a matter to be decided amongst the teachers themselves.—The Rev. S. R. Jones If we grant the request it will be a precedent which we will have to follow. How much does it cost. —Thirty-five shillings for the term.—Mr J. Morgan said that the father was prepared to pay that money.—The Chairman said that the point was whether they were going to establish a prece- clent.-Rev S. R. Jones thought the Board might have similar applications from other teachers.— You know that complaints are made that the rates are too high.—Rev S. R. Jones: She is in her last year. We might put a limit there. -Yes, that would only apply for the last year to prepare for college.—Mr Morgan asked if it would not be well for the local members to see the master and mistress.—The Chairman did not know whether this was a question for tae master and mistresses and believed it was a matter between the Board and the ratepayers. Every head teacher would tfll them that it was advisable to pay for this education, but he (the chairman) believed that this was only a way to shirk the job of training thft teachers.—Rev S. R. Jones: The Board pay the masters and mistresses not only to teach the scholars but also for training the pupil teachers. -Rev Joshua Thomas thought the competiticn was getting so keen that it was necessary for the Board to pay some attention to the question. They were preparing at other School Boards, and this Board could not expect their pupil teachers to compete with others who had greater advantages. Tiie Chairman said thst it was very seldom they employed teachers from large towns, and, in fact, they never appointed one from large town", therefore the teachers did not compete with others. He believed they met their case by promoting teachers trained under the Board. If they appointed teachers from other places then he would be in favour of granting their own teachers the same facilities as those.-Rev J. Thomas said that central classes were established at Merthyr and Llan wonno.- The Chairman But not at Llantwit for the Llanwonno Board will not allow them to have a representation on I the management committee.—Rev J. Thomas: They have altered that now.—The Chairman: Mr James Roberts told me otherwise the other day -Rev J. Thomas: It was not reasonable to I expect them to pay towards the school unless they I had proper representation. —Rev S. R. Jones: Besides, we have higher rates than Llantwit Vardre. —The Chairman: We are going on very well, indeed, as we are, and our teachers pass now and are equal to any other teachers. The I new code will throw a lot of masters out of the profession.-Rev S. R Jones: This is a question of whether they would pass if they were granted better advantages and higher facilities. We do not employ inferior teachers, and it is a poor com- pliment to our headmasters to say that they can- not train their teachers.—Rev J. Thomas: I do not think they want to shirk their work. They only complain about the time.—Rev S. R. Jones I never end my day's work before I go to bed, and the schoolmasters' days are very short ones.- The Chairman: They have a deal more time than I have.—Mr Morgan moved that the appli- cation be granted. Mr MiUward seconded.—Mr Richards It is not just to the other teachers.— Rev S. R. Jones: You will deprive the head teacher of two half-days work a week I move that the application be refused.—The motion was then put and carried by four to two.-Rev S. R. Jones I am not ashamed to be in the minority on this question. -Rev J. Thomas: It is an honour to be in the majority on such a question. (Laughter.)—Rev S. R. Jones You are gentle- men employing labour and you would never grant in your businesses what you have granted now.—The Chairman agreed and said the taxes were high enough aheady.-The matter then dropped RESIGNATIONS.—The Clerk read a letter from Miss Lizzie Williams enclosing the resignation of that young lady as assistant at Caerphilly owing to ill-health. On the motion cf Mr John Morgan the resignation was accepted. A letter was also read from the head-teacher at Taff's Well asking that M. A: Davies should be retained as an ex-P.T at that school 0"- ing to the fact that a young lady would be leaying there.—It was agreed that Miss Da vies be allowed to remain temporarily at the ordinary salary. The Clerk also read a letter from Miss M. A. Price, a third-year pupil-teacher at Cilfynydd, giving six months notice to terminate her agree- ment, and a letter to the same effect had been received from Miss Gwladys Rees, a monitress at Cilfynydd Infants. Both were accepted. NORTON BRIDGE SCHOOLS.—The Clerk read a letter from Mr Uriah Harris, of the Norton Bridge Schools giving the attendances at the school, and stating that he would apply for a new teacner at the next meeting of the Board. He also read an extract from a letter sent by Mr D. Edwards, H.M. Inspector of schools with re- gard to certain improvements required. This was referred to the architect. ATTENDANCE.—The attendance of children at Abermill and Caerphilly was reported to be very irregular. The attendance had been smaller dur- ing the past month than in any month during the past two years, and the attendance officer said there could be no reason for this irregularity.—It was resolved that a number of parents be prose- cuted. A PRECEPT. -The question of making a precept upon the overseers for the sum of E2000 to cover the half year's expenses was next discussed, and the clerk said that a call made for JMOO had not yet been paid, but ,£1100 had recently been paid into the bank.—The Chairman remarked that they were considerably overdrawn at the bank.- Oo the motion of the Rev S. R. Jones, seconded by Mr J Morgan, it was resolved that this new precept be signed. REPAYMENT OF LOANs.-On the motion of the Chairman, seconded by Mr Williams, it was re- solved that 3 cheque for f,327 19s 5d, to cover a loan and interest due to the Public Works Loan Commissioners should be drawn. TRUANT SCHOOL.—The Clerk read a letter from the clerk of the Joint Truant School asking for a gentleman to be appointed to represent the Board at the Management Committee of this school.- The Chairman remarked that he had been at first appointed, but finding that he could not at- tend had relegated the task to the Rev S. R. Jones. That, genu^man had ample time to at- tend to the matter properly, and he (the chair- man) moved that Mr Jones be reappointed.—Mr J. Morgan seconded, and it was carried.-Rev S. R. Jones having briefly returned thanks the meet- ing terminated.
Another Rhcudda Colliery Re-Started.
Another Rhcudda Colliery Re-Started. Operations were resumed on Monday at the Tynewydd Colliery, Treherbert, about a dozen working places being re-opened. The pit had been at a standstill for over two years. Recently the 2ft 9in seam was struck in the colliery, and this will be developed as soon as a hard heading has been driven from the 4ft vein to it. Employ- ment will be afforded to a comparatively large number of men in a few months hence.
LLWYNYPIA
LLWYNYPIA FOR the cure of Tic, Neuralgia, and Face ache there is nothing so effectual as Davies's Tic Mixture prepared by T. Da vies, Chemist, Porth, and Tony t pand