The Merthyr Express

Merthyr Electric Traction and lighting Company. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 'i The thirteenth ordinary general meeting of tliu Merthyr Electric Iraction and Liyhung Cunipany, Limited, was held on Thursday, the 14th April, at Electrical Federation OMces, Kingsway, W.C., Mr. G. J Somerville, chair- man of the Company, presiding. The Secretary (Mr S. J Clements) having read the notice convening the meeting and the report of the auditors, the Chairman said It is not necessary that I should repeat in detail the particulars contained in the report, but before moving the adoption of the report and accounts I should like to make a few re- marks as to the general position of the Com- pany In view of the unsettled state of tho ooal trade in South Wales during the past year, which has naturally seriously affected the general local businesses, the accounts be- fore you should be considered satisfactory The profit, after deducting administration expenses, is the highest in the history of the company and shows 2300 12s. 2d increase on 1908 figures. The balance at the credit of profit and loss ac- count, after paying debenture and other in- terest and transferring £1,500 to renewals' ac- count, is L4,498 13s lOd. The preference divi- dend absorbs 91,500, and the directors recom- mend that £1,000 be placed to depreciation and reserve; that a dividend of 5 per cent. on the ordinary shares be paid, and that £ 498 13s. lOd. be carried forward. The sum to be put aside to renewals and to depreciation and re- serve accounts is £ 2,500 or £ 250 more than in 1908. On the balance sheet you will find the amount of £ 2,241 6s. 8d. in respect of dis- counts on debenture stock. The directors re- commend that this item should be written off, out of depreciation and reserve. The depreci- ation and reserve account has been accumu- lated out of several years' profits, now that wo have a reasonable sum to the credit of the account, the directors consider that, as there is no tangible asset represented by discounts on debenture stock, tho amount should be written out of the accounts. The electric supply under- taking has shown fair progress. The equiva- lent number of lamps connected during the year is greater than in any preceding year, and the revenue obtained from these extra lamps has more than counter-balanced the reduction in consumers' accounts, owing to the extended adoption of the economical metallic filament lamps. The increase in lamps connected has been 26 per cent., while the receipts have only increased by 6.5 per cent. Consumers with the old carbon lamps found their lighting accounts were less than when they used gas, and now their bills Are further reduced by about 50 per cent. through the use of the new lamps. The economy of the new lamps, however, is bringing, and will bring in a large increase in the number of consumers, and we have every reason to believe that the lamps will ulti- mately be of material benefit to the electric industry You will see by the report that the directors have been successful in obtaining the public lighting of the whole of Dowlais. As mains will be laid in many streets where at present a sup- ply of electricity is not given, there is scope for considerable increase in private supply- One of the conditions of the public lighting contract was that the Company j'ould De al- lowed to utilize overhead wires in many of the streets. The Council, as representing the ratepayers, gave the necessary consent, but considerable opposition was manifested in the district to the use of overhead wires, and there is every indication that the opposition was ini- tiated and worked up by parties whose financial interests would benefit, by the company being prevented from giving the advantages of elec- tric supply in the district. The Board of Trade held a local inquiry into the matter, and their consent to the Company's proposals is ex- pected shortly. The reason the Company is adopting overhead wires in certain streets is that the amount of business to be obtained in many parts is so small that an adequate re- turn could not be obtained on the largely in- creased capital expenditure necessary to place all the mains underground. The Company al- so obtained a certain amount of public lighting in the Brecon-road and Swansea-road districts, and the public has expressed its approval of the vastly improved illumination. These wires are also overhead. Early in the year a large battery was in- stalled, which has enabled the generating station to be run more economically, and what is also important has enabled the directors to postpone for at least two years the installa- ,a, tion of additional generating and boiler plant. We anticipate that more plant will be needed at the end of 1911 or the beginning of 1912. The new battery is being paid for in instalments spread over 10 years. The instalments cover principal, interest and maintenance. and at the end of the ten years the makers guarantee that the capacity of the battery shall be as good as when new The instalments are being charged against revenue, and appear under the heading of "Purchase and Maintenance of Battery." Turning to the traction undertaking we find that receipts have shown a decrease, which decrease would undoubtedly have been appre- ciably greater had it not been for the opening of the Cyfarthfa Castle and Park to the public. The opening took place in July last, and conse- quently the benefit to our traffics has only been from that date. The erection of large second- ary schools at the park is contemplated, and the company will eventually benefit materially by the conveyance of the scholars. The Merthyr Corporation have recently taken energetic ac- tion against us for overcrowding the cars. The Compatay find (as all other tramway authori- ties do) that it is impossible to prevent over- crowding at certain times. With a view to overcoming the difficulty, the Company, with the approval of the Corporation, applied to the Board of Trade for consent to the running of double-deck cars on the Dowlais route. This consent was given, and the Company has now three double-deckers in operation on the route, and a further number of single deck cars will be converted in time for the Whitsun traffic. The conversion of the cars doubles their seat- ing capacity, and we have every reason to be- lieve increased receipts will follow The new Cefn Bridge, which has been mentioned so often in the directors' reports, is at last being constructed by the local authorities, and ar- rangements have been made to lay our rails across the bridge. To enable this extension to be carried out, and in view of the constant de- mand made on our capita) account, more par- ticularly by the electricity supply section, and of the faot that we have alreiady spent more than the amount of our subscribed capital and debentures, it will shortly be necessary to make provision for further capital, and your direc- tors will give this matter their careful consid- eration. Merthyr depends entirely upon the steel and coal industries, and as there is now a more settled condition in these trades, we may anticipate continued improvement in the results of the Company's undertakings The Chairman concluded by moving the fol- lowing resolution :That the report of the directors and the statement of accounts for the year ended the 31st December. 1909, now before the meeting be and the same are hereby received and adopted, and that the recommen- dations contained in the report as to dividends and otherwise be adopted and carried out." Mr C. G. Tegetmeier seconded the resolu- tion and it was carried unanimously. Mr. C. G. Tegetmeier moved, "That. Mr. G. J. Somerville, the director retiring by rota- tion, be hereby re-appointed a director of the company." This having been seconded by Mr. F. C. Cocking, the same was carried unanim- ously Mr. W F. Cox moved, and Mr. H. A. Stagg seconded, "That Messrs. Walter J. Kershaw and Co., the retiring auditors, be and they are hereby re-eleeted auditors of the Company for the year ending 31st December, 1910. at a fee I of thirty guineas," and this was carried. This terminated the business.

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MERTHYR TOWN COUNCIL, i DISCUSSION RE SUNDAY CONC;™ EXPENSES OF WITNESSES IN LONDON SHOULD FIRST-CLASS FARES BE ALLOWED ? The monthly meeting of the Merthyr Town Council was held on Monday night. In the absence of the Mayor, the Deputy-Mayor (Councillor Isaac Edwards) presided. There were also present:—Aldermen Ivor Abraham, T. J. Evans, Rowland Evans, A. Wilson, J. M' Berry, Councillors R. P. Rees, W. Lewis (Pen- ydarren), H. M. Lloyd, J. W. Lewis, F. Pedler. Dd. John, J. Davies (Cyfarthfa), F. S. Simons. Dan Thomas, D. Phillips, D..J. Lewis, L. M. Joaer-, Thos. Williams, Dd. Jones, W. Jones, and C. Griffiths with the officials. Councillor F. S. Simons called attention to I). minute in the report of the Education Committee, dealing with a letter received from the Merthyr and District Trades Committee of Carpenters and Joiners, relative to an alleged non-obser- vance of union rules at certain schools, and on which the Architect had been asked to report. He asked why the Clerk of Works had not reported the matter.—The Chairman said the question should be raised at a meeting of the Education Committee. Councillor Simons said a Committee of the House of Lords and Commons were considering the proposed Bill for water legislation for the whole kingdom, and intended embodying a principle which the Corporation contended for last year, when the Cardiff Bill was before Parliament, that of intermediate authorities behvj; allowed to tap the mains on certain conditions. The Cardiff Corporation, he said, wcre frightened that the Bill would pass, and were sending up a deputation against the proposed scheme. He moved that the Borough Engineer and Chairman of the Waterworks Committee be empowered to go to London and give evidence in favour of the Bill. He did not think the ratepayers would raise an objection. —Alderman R. Evans seconded the proposition, which was carried. Councillor D. J. Lewis objected to the Mayor, as Chairman of the Watch Committee, having the power to appoint the prosecuting solicitor for Quarter Sessions. He respected the Mayor, but he did not believe in a one-man Council.— The Chairman said the Watch Committee had full power. The Mayor was appointed on the Court of Governors of the National Library of Wales Councillor L. M. Jones complained that tV Troedyrhiw brakes did not run to timetable, and the Surveyor made a note. SALARY OF THE CLERK OF THE PEACE I A letter was read from the Under-Secretary of State,stating that it appeared to him tha* the salary of £2f) per annum proposed to be paid to the Clerk of the Peace could hardly be regarded as adequate remuneration for the services required in such a large and important town as Merthyr, and he would therefore be glad if the Council would re-consider the matter. -Alderm;1;1 J. M. Berry moved that the salary he £.50 a. year.—In rrply to Councillor H. M. Lloyd, the Town Clerk said that at Cardiff the salary was £150, and Swansea £79. —Alderman A. Wilson moved that a reply be sent stating that, the Clerk of the Peace was a whole-time officer of the Corporation, that recently his salary was revised, and it was understood that it was to be inclusive. When the Town Clerk took up the duties of the Clerk of the Peace, he argued, the other work would either suffer, or the other members of the staff would do it. He therefore thought £25 quite adequate. About a month ago the Council appointed a clerk who had a knowledge of won; in connection with Quarter Sessions, and b? j did some of the work in the court on the vious Wednesday. He had yet to learn iivi i the Corporation were to be dictated to by ths: i Assistant Home Secretary.—Councillor F. I Simons said he supported the resolution fixing the salary at £26. but he took it that that would be for the first year only. The Council were in a difficulty. If they refused to fix as the salary such a fee as the Home Secretary thought proper he had power to say that the Clerk of the Peace should not be paid by salary, but that he should take all the fees pertaining to the office, which would amount to, perhaps, £150 or £200 a year, and the Council would be powerless in the matter.—Alderman T. J. Evans seconded Alderman Wilson's proposal.—Councillor Dan Thomas said that something had been said about what the Home Secretary would do, but he did not think a Liberal Government would dictate to the borough that returned Mr. Keir Hardie (laughter).—On the motion of Councillor Dd. John, the matter was referred to the County Powers Committee, the Town Clerk to report on the salaries paid in other count] boroughs. IMPROVEMENTS DESIRED AT PENTREBACH. Councillor D. J. Lewis referred to the letter from Messrs. Hill's Plymouth Co., Ltd., stating that inasmuch as their leases expire in four y«&ra' time, it appeared to them unreasonable to expect them to go to the considerable expense entailed in repairing roads at Pentrebach, and that if the work had to be carried out they would be obliged to increase the jents of all the houses I in the district where such repairs were executed. The Committee had given instructions for the Surveyor to get the work carried out.—Mr. Lewis moved that the report be referred back. All properties in the borough, he said, were not treated alike. Because the Council had tried to better the surroundings of the people the company had given notice to their tenants that their rents would be raised 2s. a time. Fourteen years ago the Plymouth properties were rented at 9s. per house to-day the rents were 19s. per house. Mr. Bailey, a former manager, introduced a scheme of water supply for the houses, and the rents were advanced from that time on. He estimated that since that time the tenants had paid £40 each above the total which a 9s. rent would produce. Some of the tenants had no back doors, water closets or water, and up to recently they had very little light.—The Chairman said that was not the time or place to attack third parties Mr. Lewis could attack the Committee.—Councillor Dan Thomas said that if the paragraph were referred back the company would do nothing, as their leases would expire.—Councillor L. M. Jones trusted that the work of improvement would not be delayed.—The report was adopted.—In reply to Councillor D. J. Lewis, the Chairman said the Committee were doing all they could, and as quickly as possible, to improve the lighting at Abercanaid. PROPOSED FIRE BRIGADE. A sub-committee of the Watch Committee presented the following report:—Fire Brigade. —The Committee discussed the Chief Constable's report, and also inspected the premises proposed to be utilised for the Fire Brigade at the Merthyr police station. The Committee instructed the Assistant Borough Surveyor to prepare a plan and estimate of the necessary alterations to the Albert-street cottages, to provide living accom- modation for some of the members of the Fire Brigade, and also a temporary weights and measures' room, wash-houses, etc. The Com- mittee inspected some designs of fire escapes and specifications procured by the Chief Con- stable, and instructed the Town Clerk to write to some of the leading manufacturers requesting them to submit a complete specification and estimate for a suitable fire engine for the borough in accordance with the details suggested by the Chief Constable, and approved by the Com- mittee. The Town Clerk was directed to communicate with Corporations to whom some of these engines had been supplied, enquiring whether same gave satisfaction.—Councillor Simons questioned whether the Watch Com- mittee had statutory powers to deal with such questions without the approval or assent of the Corporation. If so, he would move at the next meeting that such powers be taken out of their hands. He did not think the Committee had tuch powers in these matters.—Councillor J. W. Lewis seconded.—Councillor Simons I want to know something about it, that's all; we all should know.—Alderman Wilson said he was a member of the Watch Committee but in case of a large expenditure such as this the whole of the Council should be consulted. He thought the Public Works Committee should deal with such questions.—The Town Clerk said the Watch Committee could only deal with matters relating to the police, and the report was referred to the General Purposes Committee. —In reply to questions, the Chief Constable said that four cottage police stations in the borough were not on the telephone, and, on the motion of Councillor D. J. Lewis, it was agreed that the Watch Committee be asked to consider the advisability of connecting all stations with the 'phone. POLICE REST DAY. With regard to one day's rest in seven for! police, the Watch Committee had adjourned j the consideration of the question pending the result of the Bill now before Parliament, but they were disposed to approve of the principle. The Town Clerk had been directed to com- inunicate with the local members of Parliament, | requesting them to support any proposal that may be made in the Bill, providing for the extra cost to be involved being defrayed from Imperial sources of revenue,Alderman Wilson j -UC-- I moved that the principle be approved. Cardiff, Newport and Swansea, he said, had agreed to Kive their police a day's rest. Constables were much entitled to one day's rest as he (Mr. Wilson) was. If the question were shelved perhaps they would hear no more about it.— The Chairman ruled Mr. Wilson out of order. SUNDAY CONCERTS AT THE PARK. The Parks Committee recommended that the application of the Cyfarthfa and Merthyr Municipal Band for permission to give sacred concerts at the Castle on Sunday nights in May be granted.—Councillor W. Lewis (Penydarren) said he had every respect for Sunday concerts, bat the Sabbath was not our day.—Councillor Thomas It is a day of rest, made specially for us.—Councillor Lewis said our country had baen made what it was to-day because of the Bible and the recognition of the Sabbath. On the continent the Lord's Day was broken, and he trusted the Council would not follow suit by granting this request. He mo.ved that the application be refused.—Alderman R. Evans seconded. It was, he ventured to think, a money-making affair. Sunday was fast becom- ing a week-day everywhere.—Councillor Dan Thomas Sacred concerts are held in chapels. —Alderman Evans: They are dying out; they see the folly of it.—Councillor John Davies (Cyfarthfa) supported the amendment.—Coun- cillor F. S. Simons Which would our friends like to see, our young people jostling about the streets after the services, as they do now, or in the Castle grounds, behaving themselves decently and listening to sacred music.—The Chairman The band will be inside the Castle. —Councillor Simons: But it can be heard outside. Last Sunday night I heard rehearsals going on in chapels in preparation for concerts, and I cannot see much difference between rehearsals for concerts and oratorios, and going to the Castle to hear a band.—Alderman Berry also thought such concerts would keep young people from strolling about the streets.—Alder- man T. J. Evans dissented from the view that it was wrong to listen to good music on the Sabbath. There was nothing wrong in making a legitimate use of the Sabbath. He therefore dissented from the views of the mover and seconder of the amendment.—Councillora J. W. Lewis: Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath. Nothing was more elevating than to listen to beautiful work on the Sabbath nights, lrtce the band would dis- course. He thought the Committee were to be congratulated for having the courage to make the recommendation.—Alderman R. Evans It will be like a Continental Sunday. —Councillor D. Jones It will not interfere with any service on Sundays.—Upon a division the "port was adopted, the band to play on Sundays May, after 8 p.m. AN OFFICE BOY. The Finance Committee reported having < ithorised the Borough Controller to appoint n office boy for his department, at a weekly salary of 7s. 6d.—Alderman A. Wilson moved that the appointment be advertised, and Alderman T, J. Evans seconded.—The Borough Controller said the clerk had been appointed. Lately applications were received for a junior clerkship in another department, and he selected the boy for the present post who was next on the list of those candidates. He did not know the lad, and had no interest in the matter.— Alderman W ilson he objected to the principle, and pressed his motion, which was carried by 11 votes to 8.—Councillor W. Lewis gave notice to move that in future all appoint- ments be made by the Council. AN AFFORESTATION SCHEME. The Chairman moved that a committee be appointed to consider the advisability of pro- moting a scheme of afforestation within the borough. He said there were many barren spots which could be utilised with advantage, ir-id which would give employment to many men. He had taken six months to get facts and figures together, which he would present to the committee.—The resolution was carried, ad a committee of two members from each •vard was appointed. A JOURNEY TO LONDON. The Chairman said the next business was to appoint representatives to attend the arbitration in London, re the coniractors claims with regard to the high-level aqueduct, the sum involved being £ 8,140.—The names of Councillor F. S. Simons and Councillor Dd. John were mentioned, as well as the Chairman of the Committee, Councillor J. W. Lewis.—Councillor F. S. Simons said it had been suggested that councillors and aldermen liked these trips to London for the good they got out of them. He had for years taken an active part in the work of the Corproation, and he had had to go to London on Corporation business more times than any other member present. Some time a committee of the Corporation revised the "0?-]e of expenses, making them a guinea. a day and third-class railway fare. It had always been a loss to him to go to London, because, in his absence, he losi. professional work, and was out of pocket when he came home. Certain members thought he was doing too well out of it, and the reduction in expenses was made. He did not want to go again, and he would not go. Let those who had talked about the expenses go to London themselves, and take their share and the burden of the work.—The Chairman The one witness who can help us in this case is Councillor Simons.—Alderman Wilson moved that Councillor Hankey be asked to represent the Council.—Councillor J. W. Lewis said this claim arose after Mr. Hankey ceased to be chairman of the committee.— Alderman J. M. Berry expressed surprise at the attitude adopted by Councillor Simons. He asked the electors to send him to the Council, and he ought to be prepared to do the work that was in his power to do at reasonable remuneration. He understood that the only objection Mr. Simons had was that the Council did not pay first-clasa train fare.—Councillor Simons: When I go to London on my own business I travel first-class, and I do not see why I should travel third-class for the Council. —Alderman Berry: At election times can- didates would go up in a caravan. I appeal to Mr. Simons to go to London and take part in this case.—Councillor Simons I have made my position so clear that I feel I shall do wrong if I withdraw from it. I have told members of this Council that there is no earthly reason why we should be treated differently to the members of our neighbouring councils—Cardiff, Swansea and Newport. They get not only sustenance allowance, but a guinea to a guinea- and-a-half and two guineas a day. I ask 'for reasonable travelling expenses, first-class fare, and I don't see why we should not get it. I have never promised voters I will give them my money, but I will give them my time. I won't put my hand into my pocket.—The Chairman: If we are to have efficient represen- tation at this inquriy Mr. Simons should be there. He knows all about it.—Councillor Simons: I have accepted one journey to-night, to give evidence before a Parliamentary Com- mittee—that is a matter I have taken to heart; it deals with water supply. But I have said all along that I will not undertake this matter, and I won't. You can get over your difficulty by having the inquiry down here.—Alderman R. Evans: It would cost a lot of money.— Councillor Simons You should have thought of that when you passed the resolution reducing the railway allowance.—Alderman T. J. Evans It is a strange attitude for a member to take up. because he cannot get first-class fare.—Councillor Simons I would rather resign my seat than give away the position I have taken up. My friend will understand that.—Councillor Dd. John said he agreed with Mr Simons, and also declined to go to London.—Councillor Simons Ask Alder- man D. W. Jones to go.—The Town Clerk: He will not go on the new terms (laughter).— Several names were then suggested, including Councillor Marsh and Councillor J. W. Lewis. —The Chairman again urged Mr. Simons to re-consider his decision, as he knew all about the facts of the case,-Councillor D. J. Lewis moved that Alderman Wilson and Councillor J. W. Lewis be sent.—Councillor Simons seconded.—Alderman Wilson moved the name of Councillor W. Lewis, Treharris.—Councillor W. Lewis said he was sure Mr. Simons would make an exception in this case, and he appealed to that gentleman to re-oonsider the matter.— Councillor Simons: If Councillor Lewis is the originator of the suggestion that we should be called upon to travel in a different way from members of our sister boroughs, and he will try to put it right, I will go (hear, hear). I do not want it to be a personal matter. I want it for every member of the Corporation. I am prepared to go on the new terms, but on the understanding that the grievance shall be put right.—This the Council agreed to, and Coun- cillors Simons, D. John and J. W. Lewis were appointed.

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MERTHYR POLICE COURT. FRIDAY.—Before Sir T. Merchant Williams (stipendiary), Mr. J. Plews, Mr. J. M. Berry, Mr. D. C. Evans, and Mr. A. Howfield. AFFILIATION. Maggie Davies, Bedlinog, summoned John Davies, of the same place, to show cause, etc.—An order was made for 3s. 6d. a week and costs.-Richard Pointing, of Ferndale, who did not appear, was summoned to show cause, etc., by Sarah E. Williams.— The usual order was made. WOMEN AT VARIANCE.-Mary Davies and Ethel Davies, of Aberlan, were summoned for assaulting Gertie Thomas, and there was a cross summons.—The Stipendiary bound the parties over to keep the peaoe. It is ridiculous," said the Stipendiary, "to bring a case like this before the court." DISMISSED.—George Bumford, of Aberfan. was summoned for assaulting Charlotte NiohoU&-Mr. F. P. Charles was for the de- fence.—Complainant did not appear, and the case was dismissed. Later, Mr G. E. Thomas appeared for the complainant, and said his client could not get to the court earlier.—The Stipendiary said that a fresh summons might be issued. Thomas Jen- kins was summoned for using bad language to Mary Caughlin, in IAtnb-lane.-The expres- sions used were comparatively mild, and the Stipendiary told the parties to go home. MABY BBEAN AGAIN. Mary Brean, an old offender, was summoned for assaulting Elizabeth Sullivan, on the 11th April, at Gellifaelog.Defendant's head was bandaged with a "loud" red handkerchief, and she said she had been murdered.—Stipendiary: You look very well for a woman who has been murdered.—Defendant: Oh, it was a shame to see me (laughter). She hit me with a bucket, and I couldn't help me'self.—A fine of 20s. and costs was imposed. DRUNK ON LICENSED PREMISES.—John Con- way, landlord of the Morl%is Castle Inn, Mer- thyr, was summoned for permitting drunk- enness on the night of the 1st April.—Mr. F. P. Charles defended.—P.S. Hunter said he saw a man leaning against the counter, and he discovered that he was drunk. By Mr.. Charles: The man did not wish to be examined by a doctor, but said he would write to the Home Secretary.—Mr. Charles said that men could pull themselves together sometimes when they went into public houses. In this case the man must have done so, and was served. It was admitted that he was intoxicated, as he got excited when the police spoke to him.— The Stipendiary imposed a small fine of 20s. and costs.—Mr. Charles asked the Stipendiary to say that the conviction would not affect the license. He said that if the Bench made no observation, or said that the case was a seri- ous one, notioe of objection was served at the ordinary time, but if the Bench said that the conviction would not affect the license, no notice would be served.—The Stipendiary said this case was not a serious one, and that it would not affect the license. —Mr. Charles mentioned that the landlord was away in Ireland, and Mrs Conway said he was visiting his brother, who was ill.—The Stipendiary said if a licensee did not attend to his house it was a case for complaint.—Mr. Charles said he believed the landlord would return this week. THE BURGLARY AT GWAKLODYGABTH.—James Kelly was charged with breaking and enter- ing the house of Tom Owen, 42, Gwaelody. garth, Merthyr, on the 30th January last, and stealing therefrom a quantity of wearing ap- parel, nousehold goods, and a bottle of cham- pagne, of the total value of 232 19s. 6d., the property of Mr. Owen.—In February another man, named Edwards, of Cefn, was arrested, and sent to prison for five months when the case was fully reported.—The evidence was re- peated by Detective-Sergeant Thomas, who said he found that the house had been broken into while Mrs. Owen was staying with friends at Pantscallog, her husband having gone to Hungary to claim a prize of over £ 4,000, which he had won in a lottery.—Detective Sergt. Thomas said the defendant was son-in-law of Edwards, and he absconded the day that Edwards was arrested. On Friday, the 8th inst., the defendant Kelly gave himself up to the Merthyr police. In answer to the charge, h" said "I have nothing to say. I only bad the boots, shirt and cap."—Defendant was com- mitted for trial at the Borough Quarter Ses- sion& NBASINO THE DAxmm.-John Lewis, Bed- linog, was fined 15s. and costs for being drunk and disorderly at that place, and he was told that the next time he came to court he would be placed upon the black list. A NATTSHTT BOY.—Charles Howells, a boy, was summoned for damaging a caretaker's cabin to the extent of one shilling, at Brith- dir, the property of the Gelligaer District Council.-Mr. Pulliblank (from the office of Mr F. T. James, clerk to the Council) prosecuted. —A fine of 5s. and costs was imposed. TunDAY.-Before Sir T. Marchant Williams (Stipendiary), Mr. J. Plews, Mr. J. M. Berry, and Thos. Jones. CAUTION TO HOUSEWIVES.—Mary Davies, of Trenarris, was summoned for beating mate on Sunday morning in contravention of the bye- laws.—Mrs. Davies said she did not beat the mats, but placed them on the window ledge while she swept the passage.-She was told that mats must not be shaken in the street after 8 a.m., and was fined 5s. "nORCHING.-Edws-rd Bates was fined. 5s. and cost,4 .-À tiding a bicycle furiously in Bargoed- terrace, Treharris. The constable said the defendant nearly knocked over a little child, and almost, came in contact with a cart.. BOUND OVER.—George Burnford, of Aber- fan, was summoned for assaulting Charlotte Nicholls, 1, Cotterell-street, Aberfan, on 26th March.—Mr. W. E. Thomas was for complain- ant. Mr. F. P. Charles for defendant.—Com- plainant, whose husband keeps an oilshop, said the defendant came into the shop and used bad language. He caught hold of her arm, and she shouted for help.—Defendant was bound over to keep the peace.—Mr. Charles said the defendant had apologised as he was under the influence of drink.—Defendant was ordered to pay the eosts. ROW AT DOWLAIS TOP. — Lewis Williams, Dowlais, was fined £ 3 for assaulting Edward Dowlais, was fined £3 for assaulting Edward Stanton, and a cross-summons was dismissed.— —Wm. Young was summoned for assaulting George Pingcot at Dowlais Top. There was a croes-summons.—This case arose out of the same row.—A similar fine was imposed, and the cross summons dismissed. f TRANSFER.—On the application of Mr. W. J. Canton, the licence of the Fanner's Arms Inn, High-etreet, was transferred from William Pro- theroe to Edward H. King; and the licence of the Collier's Arms Inn, Abercanaid, was en- I dorsed in favour of Mrs. Ann Davies, the widow of the late licensee. MOTHER AND DAUGHTER.—Edith Palmer and Ellen Harris, mother and daughter, of Taff- street, Merthyr Vale, were summoned for using ) bad language towards Ellen Lewis, of the same street.—There were cross-summonses.—Mr. \V. R. Edmunds was for the complainant, Mr. F. P Charles for the defence.—A row occurred over the breaking of a window by the sor. of Mrs. Harris.—The Stipendiary stopped the case, and bound the parties over to keep the peace.—"I suppose they all go to a place of worship on Sundays," said the Stipendiary. 'TTes," replied Mr. Edmunds, "like the village blacksmith." DISMISSED.—Jame6 Baldwin, defended by Mr. F. P. Charles, was summoned by his sister, DISMISSED.—Jame6 Baldwin, defended by Mr. F. P. Charles, was summoned by his sister, Margaret Barrett, of Cwm, Dowlais, for using bad language.—The case was dismissed. I, MAN AND WIFE CASES.—Enoch Lewis, of Yn- ysfach, was summoned for deserting his wife, I Ellen Lewis (24).-Mr. F. P. Charles was for complainant, who said they were married two j years ago. There was one child, and she was expecting another. Her husband had treated her badly. Some time ago he said he was going home to his mother, and he sent a cart to the house and took away everything but a bed.- Stipendiary: And the wife (laughter).—Mr. Charles: Yes, and the baby.—Continuing, the complainant said that the defendant had only paid her 2s. 6d. since.—Defendant said he could not stand the relatives. He alleged that she ran up the shop book.—An order was made for 12s. a week.—Defendant said he was prepared to make another home. Benj. Brodsky was summoned by his wife, Leah Brodsky, a Rus- sian Jew, of Penydarren, for desertion.—The complainant said her husband left her three weeks ago, going to Darren View.—It was said that the Jewish Congregation kept the wife and two children.—An order was made for 8s. a week and costs. GOOD ADVICE.—Blodwen Jones, of Caeracca, Dowlais, summoned Napthali James, of Peny- wern, Dowlais, to show cause, etc.—Mr. W. J. Canton appeared for the complainant, and Mr. F. P. Charles for the defendant.—The com- plainant said her female child was born on the 27th February, and the defendant admitted the paternity.—The Stipendiary Go and put the banns in. But I am afraid Miss Jones is too good for you.-An order was made for payment of 3s. 6d. per week from the date of birth for thirteen years, oost% medical expenses and ad- vocate's tees. T. Howelle. Sand-street, Dow- lais, was summoned by Nellie Carey to show cause, etc.—The paternity in this case was also admitted, and the usual order was made. DEAR COAL.—Phillip Parton was charged with stealing coal, Talue 2d., the property of Messrs. Crawshay Brothers.-P.C. James Be- van said he saw the defendant jump from a collier's train with something under his coat, which he found to be coal.—The offioer said that many complaints were received, and he watched the train. Other men threw down lumps and ran away.—Fined 5s. AN EXPLANATION.—Mr. Casev desires us to state that the offence for whioh he was sum- moned last week occurred in his own home in Brewery-street, Brecon-road; that he was not returning from the coke ovens, nor had he ever been there. His father and mother lived in the house he now occupies for twenty-six years. MERTHYB LANDLORD SUMMONED, CASE DISMISSED. David Griffiths, landlord of the Express Inn, High-street, Merthyr, was summoned for keep- ing open his premises during prohibited hours, at 12 o'clock on the night of the 29th March, also for permitting drunkenness at the same time; John Hughes was summoned for being on the premises, and Felix Williams for being drunk.-Mr. F. P Charles was for the land- lord Mr. W. Edmunds defended Hughes. j P C. — -— said he was passing the inn, and saw a light in the bar, and he heard people talking. He looked through a boarded partition (the premises are undergoing alteration), and in the bar saw the landlord ana two men, with a glass in front of each of them He saw them drink. He called P.C. Groves, and they watched the house for another ten minutes. When he entered the house, the land- lord said the men were his guests. Williams was under the influence of drink. Later on P.S. Hunter accompanied witness to the house. There were sleevers of beer on the counter, and the men were in the kitchen by the fire. 1 Hughes said, "I am a: guest of Mr. Griffiths, and I'll go home now if you like, Sergt."—By Mr. 1 Charles: He was satisfied that Williams had I a right to be on the premises. He was the son-in-law of the landlord, and lived at Ebbw Vale. The men could have gone into another Vale. The men could have gone into another I bar, which would have been out of sight, but they were In the bar overlooking the street.— By Mr. Edmunds: He did not remember Hughes saying that he had had supper there; ] he might have said so. He said he had come' from the theatre with Mr. Griffiths' son-in-law. —Mr. Edmunds: This is your first case in court?—Yes.—Mr. Edmunds: Do you know 4 that a man has a right to be aaruest in a pub- lic-house after closing hours?—The Stipendiary: You can address that to us.The offioer said that Hughes was quite sober.—By the Chief Constable: Hughes endeavoured to conceal < himself.—P.C. Samuel Groves also gave evi- dence.—In reply to Mr. Charles, the witness said that Williams was drunk. When asked t why he did not draw the landlord's attention I to this, the constable remained silent for some momentA-The Stipendiary We are wasting time.—Mr. Charles: It's not my fault, sir. The witness won't answer.—By Mr. Edmunds: He did not see any money pass. Both men said they came from the tneatre, and that Hughes accompanied Williams.—P.S. Hunter said he visited the house at a quarter to one. Williams was drunk. Hughes said he met Mr. Williams that night, and went to the theatre with him. He went a back to the Express Inn with him at 11.15, and had supper with the son-in-law, who invited him in. Witness had a lime-juice, but did not pay for it. He denied that he hid in the pas- sage; as the police entered he was coming from the kitchen to the bar If he had wished he could have gone through the backdoor without being seen. In his opinion Williams wa. hcberj It was Williams who invited him to the he use. When they arrived at the house, which was the33 closed, Williams knocked at the door, and ask-t ed Mrs. Griffiths if he could invite him in td have supper. She said she had no objection, and he went in.—By the Chief Constable: Witot ness wa.s a oominission agent, and a bookmaker. —By Mr. Charles: He had not seen Williami since Christmas. He was friendly with him when he used to live in Merthyr.—Mary Ann Williams, Garfield-terrace. Ebbw Vale, wif of Felix William- said they came to Merthyr to her father's house to spend the Easter holidays. Her husband left the house just after seven o'clock, and returned at a quarter past eleven. He then knocked at the door, and aiked whetin er he could bring in a friend, and witness said, "certainly," thinking there was no harm. They all had supper together, and afterwards went to the bar to see the alterations that were being made. She denied that her husband was drunk.—Felix Williams, Ebbw Vale, corrobor< ated the evidence of his wife and Hughes. Hunter said that he thought he had had enough. He denied being drunk.—David GriI. fiths, the landlord, said he had kept this house for eighteen years, and was a licensee before that date. The house was being extensively al- tered, and he was using the old smoke-room as a bar. It was easy for anyone to see through the hoardings what was going on in the bar; there were no blinds on the window. There was no beer in the bar on this night. He was clearing the place for the workmen to start work at 6 o'clock next morning, when his son- in-law came from the theatre, and he agreed that Hughes came to supper witb him. Hughes asked how he wis getting on with the altera- tions, and he took him in to show him, and it was then the officers saw them through the hoardings. He told the police the facts of the case when they came into the house. The Stipendiary said the Bench had come to the conclusion that Hughes was entitled to be there, and that the case against Williams had not been proved. "The whole thing is. there- fore, dismissed," Sir Marchant added. SERVANTS can easily be obtained by the use of a small Want Ad. in these columns. State your requirements, and you wiU be aure to got suited at once.

NEW ROUTE TO CANADA. The officials of the Canadian rvorthern Steamships, Ltd., RoyaJ Line, are making tha neoessary and final arrangements for the sail- ing of the first steamer, the "Royal Edwaid," which leaves Bristol for Quebec and Montreal on May 12th. The various departments of tho Line are working with great enthusiasm, and the outlook appeaas to be one of the very- brightest charaoter, Booklets describing and illustrating the accommodation of the steamers have now been published and circulated. From these some idea may be obtained of the mag-, nifioent accommodation provided by the Royal Liners, which are the most luxurious and fast- est running from this country to Canada. Tra- vellers to the Dominion are enable on tha "Royal Edward'' and "Royal George" to rent what are aptly termed ocean flats during his passage across the Atlantic, and, on the other hand, the accommoda-tion for third cia&t pas- sengers is quite unrivalled, and cocte no more than that of other steamers

DEPRESSING WEATHER Its ill effects upon Persons in Weak Healtll, with sound Advice upon what to do. A large number of people are complaimng daily of extreme lassitude, want of enersrv, and a disinclination for active work or exer- cise. The reason for this is not far to seek, for we have been experiencing a succession of oppressive days during which the atmosphere has been loaded with moisture, in addition to which general health tends to be lowered just now. There is one particular kind of persoui or perhaps one might more rightly say, patient, to whom heavy and depressing days are very harmful; namely, the unfortunate individual who is the victim of an exhausted nervous system. Of course, depressing weather alone is not going to bring about a nervous breakdown, but in those in whom the beginnings of such a breakdown have been led up to by a period of ill-health, per- sistent worry and anxiety, or sudden mental shock, oppressive or relaxing conditions of climate may undoubtedly prove to be the last straw in the burden which ultimately over- comes the natural powers of nervous strength; Now illness from this cause may be post- poned by taking the sound advice of those who are regular users of Dr. Tibbies' Vi- Cocoa. By neglecting such good advice, sufferers have only themselves to blame, more especially seeing that this life-saviag food is actually within the reach of all for the small sum of sixpence. Dr. Tibbies' V i-Coeoa places a means in the hands of everyone to build up and main- tain a sound constitution, which enables its possessor to travel his life's journey without the aches and pain which are in many cases preventable. Do not ask your grocer for cocoa. Ask fa:

<$$fCocoa —it makes all the difference. Every grocer sells Vi-Cocoa in 6d. packets and 9d. and 18! 6d, tma.