The North Wales Times

BOARD OF GUARDIANS. The fortnightly meeting was held on Satur- day last, when there were present:—Mr. Evan Jones (Chairman), Miss Parry (Vice), Mrs. Price, Messrs. F. T. Bircham (L. G. Inspector), J. Ll. Jones, E. M. Roberts, Robert Davies, L. J. Davies, J. J. Edwards, Robert Jones, Wm. Richards, and T. R. Dakin (Assistant Clerk). The balance in the Treasurer's hands was re- ported to be jE528 16s. 6d., and in the Relieving Officer's hands 99 6s. ld. During the fortnight 158 out-door paupers hid been relieved with 934 Is. 6d. as against 934 13s. 6d. to 158 paupers last year. THE HOUSE. Messrs. W. Richards and R. Jones reported that they had visited the House, and were satis- fied that the inmates were properly cared for. They called the attention of the Building Com- mittee to the water which percolated the walls in several places. The Master reported that there were 26 in- mates in the Workhouse last week, and that 23 vagrants had been relieved dudng the fort night. John Davies, Llawrybettws, applied for an allowance of tobacco weekly. This was granted. Mr. R. Davies remarked that he had heard complaints that some of the inmates who had been presented with tobacco, had sold it. It was observed that tobacco had been pre- sented to those who did not indulge in tne weed, and that it was this class who had sold it in exchange for something else. The Chairman said they could not well pro- hibit people from sending such gifts. The matron's application for three days leave of absence was granted. VARIOUS. A letter was read from J. Hughes, Glan- 'rafon, stating thai; she had heard that some anonymous letters had been read at the last meeting concerning her, and demanding to see them. The Clerk's reply that her letter was the only one read, and that the Guardians had said no- thing at the Board to injure her, was approved. A letter was read applying for the tenancy of the house, the writer stating that he had been informed that it would shortly become vacant. The Guardians decided to leave the whole matter to the Relieving Officer and Mr. Wm. Richards, as before. It was decided to leave on the table a letter from Hunslet Union, anent the apprenticing of Workhouse children, and providing and main- taining a small home for their accommoda- tion until able to earn their own livelihood. The Assistant Clerk reported that four ex- emptions had been granted under the Vaccina- tion Act, 1898, up to the 31st of December last year. It was decided, on the 'motion of [Mr. L. J. Davies, seconded by Miss Parry, to adopt the resolution passed at the meeting of the 'Rural District Council in favour of disarmament. THE FLOOD AND ITS RESULT IN TOWN. The Chairman called attention to the incon- venience and loss occasioned by the flood to the tenants of Plasey, and urged that provision should be made to succour the sufferers. Mr. Bircham advised the Guardians to con- fide the matter to the Relieving Officer. He was surprised to hear that some of them would prefer starving or drowning to coming into the House. The Guardians adopted the Inspector's sug- gestion, and left the matter to the discretion of the Relieving Officer. ADDRESS BY MR. BIRCHAM, L.G. INSPECTOR. Mr. Bircham said the greatest compliment he could give was that he had very little to tell them. It was a year ago since he was here be- fore. Bala Union was a difficult Union to ad- minister economically, because their purse was a very small one, but he did not imply by this that the Union was neglected. He sometimes received from other Unions complaints of the manner in which they were :treated, but he never received any complaint from here. The pauperism is 3 per cent. of the population, but, of course, two or three families added to the list made a considerable difference. It was not so easy to decrease it in a small Union as a large one. Last year, he had had great ex- perience of what misery was. He had been five months among the Unions where the great strike exited in South Wales, where thousands were thrown out of work. This Union should be congratulated that it was not likely to suffer as they had been obliged to do there last year. The amount of rates collected, and the whole taxation of the country, up to Lady Day last year, was just published. From that it ap- peared that in Bala Union there was levied under poor rates something like 95,700. The rates come to 94,500, and this with the repay- ments from County Council, &c., made a to;tal »f £ 5,700. This was all levied under the head Poor Rates; this was not a proper term, be- cause out of that E5,700, only £2,000 went to ¡ Poor Relief in any shape or form, and this in- ;luded also the expenses such as maintenance )f lunatics in asylums, salaries, building and repairs, everything connected Mith the relief >f the poor. £ 3,000, over which they had no j control whatever they were credited with spending it away on the poor. This sum was made up as follows-.—County Rate, £ 1,290; Rural District Councils, F-367; School Boards, E660. There also appeared an item of £43 in respect of Parish Council expenses, and he hoped they got jE43 of good out of them. The above sums, together with those expended on Assessment Committee, Parochial Payments, &c., made up the aforementioned amount. In a word, this Union spent on Poor Relief a rate of Is. 9Jd. in the E, and on other purposes con- 2 nected with relief 2s. 3d. in the E. The whole rates (excluding the Bala Urban District) in this Union came to 4s. 2d. in the fl-that in- cluded all expenses. In the whole of England and Wales the average pauperism was 2'3 per cent., and the cost per head 13s. 3d. The average pauperism here was 3 per cent., and the cost per head 4s. Id. The pauperism was high in a small Union, because it is divided among a small population, and because a small Union was obliged to keep a staff the same as a large Union. As regards the Workhouse here, the comfort and care which the inmates received was creditable to the officers con- cerned, and to them, who, no doubt, took a great interest in the institution. The vagrant wards were still in an incomplete state. He hoped they would be put in use at an early date. There was no legislation passed in Par- liament with reference to the work of Guard- ians last year, with the exception of the Vac- cination Act. He presumed that arrangements had already been made with the vaccinators. He had in some Unions urged them to do so before the end of the year, as failing this the Local Government Board made the necessary arrangements themselves. He only hoped that it would prove a success. The Chairman said they were all indebted to Mr. Bircham for his remarks. They had al- ways strived to do all they could for the poor.

PENLLYN DISTRICT NURSING ASSOCIATION. ANNUAL MEETING. On Saturday last, the annual meeting of the above Association was held at the County Hall. Sir H. B. Robertson presided. He was supported on the platform by Lady Robertson, Mrs. Price, Mrs. Burton, Mrs. J. R. Jones, Mrs. Dean, Miss Jones, Miss Parry, and amongst those present we noticed Miss Wil- liams, Miss Lloyd, Miss Stevenson, Miss Ellis, Misses Owen, Mrs. Hugh Williams, Mrs. Dr. Williams, Mrs. J. T. Jones, Mrs. D. Evans, Mrs. Williams, Nurse Jones, Dr. Hughes, Dr. Williams, Messrs. Evan Jones, L. J. Davies, W. Morris, J. C. Evans, R. Ll. Jones, J. Parry, J. W. Roberts, J. Williams, Dr. White Jones, R. Jones, R. Evans, J. T. Jones, J. Ll. Owen, Revs. T. T. Phillips, L. D. Jenkins, loan T. Davies, and J. E. Jones. The Chairman, after a few appropriate re- marks, called upon Mrs. Burton, the Hon. Secretary, to read the Executive Committee's and Hon. Secretary's Report. REPORT OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE FOR 1898. The Executive Committee has the pleasure of presenting its report for 1898, the third year of District Nursing in Penllyn. During the last twelve months, 122 cases have been entered on the books, and nurse has paid 2,494 nursing visits. Of these 122 cases, 33 were in receipt of parish relief, and all were nursed free of charge, except two cases. Among the important cases these have been very serious :—Consump- tion, pneumonia, pleurisy, hemorrhage, bron- chitis, meningitis, abcesses, cancer, heart dis. ease, rheumatism, dyspepsia, gastritis, ioteritis, peritonitis, severe cramps, and convulsions. Miss Franks, the Inspector of Nursing, visited Bala on November 16th, and reported very favourably on the work done in this district. During October* nurse gave simple lectures in Welsh on nursing to women at Llanuwch llyn. They were so much appreciated that it is proposed to do the same in other parts of the district in 1899. When Nurse Jones took her well-earned holiday in the summer, Nurse Latham, from Manchester, was engaged to carry on the work, which she did successfully. Nurse Jones' skill and devotion are shown more each year, and her work is very popular and well appreciated. The Committee is much gratified to find that the collections made in churches and chapels throughout the districts on Sunday, September 13th, exceeded those of previous years, and they offer hearty thanks to those who responded to their appeal to carry on the work. Gifts of old linen and clean rags are particu larly acceptable. Subscriptions for the current year are now due. MRS. BURTON'S REPORT. Before reading the report for 1898, prepared by the Working Committee, I must ask you to. listen to a short account of what has been done during the year. I will not keep you long for interesting and successful as the work done is, it is now so wellknown, and I believe appreci. ated, that it requires little explanation and comment. There has been 122 cases regisctered during 1898. During the previous year there were 129. Nurse has paid 2,494 nursing jvisits. Many of the cases this last year have been long and tedious, requiring a great deal of attention and careful nursing. To one patient alone nurse paid 439 visits between April and December, to another 129 visits in 49 days. There have been more surgical cases this year and very serious ones. Of these 122 cases all have been nursed quite free of charge, except 2. Thirty three were in receipt of parish relief. As is usual, nurse was most busy during the first quarter of the year. In January, she paid 316 visits, in February 302, in March 210. In these months occurred many cases of bronchitis, pneumonia, and pleurisy. Among them were little babies, who made astonishing recoveries. Nine cases over 80 years old, most of these entirely re- covered. Nurse has visited the Workhouse about 24 times during the year. During Octo- ber, nurse gave some lectures in Welsh on the elements of nursing at Llanu Nchllyn. I wish everyone clearly to understand that she did this entirely out of kindness, and for the bene- fit of the people. Her voluntary work she is no way bound to do, as to give up her over- time to it. But I feel sure, from the way that they were received, that she must feel how much good she was really doing. Over 200 women assembled in the schoolroom listening atten- tively, almost breathlessly, drinking in every word, many of them having walked three and four miles from the hills through the pouring rain and darkness. I know how well they at- tended, for I was present at one, and, unfortu- nately, not being able to understand Welsh, I had the opportunity of observing the audience. But though I could learn a great deal from watching how she did her nursing, changed sheets and blankets, made poultice, and so on, I muse also tell you, these lectures have not cost our funds a single penny. All expenses were most generously defrayed by the good people at Llanuwchllyn themselves. So though we put it in our report, we cannot take any credit for it. The whole credit is due to nurse's unselfish goodness and the public spirit at Llanuwchllyn. But the success there has encouraged us to arrange for lectures in other parts of the dis- trict wherever they show a wish for them. We have already approached the Bala and Llanycil School Board for the use of this schoolroom, and they have consented if we pay Is. 6d. a night. I think we must afford this sum. Though we no longer receive any grant from Queen Victoria Jubilee Institute, they con- tinue to inspect our work. Miss Franks visited Bala on the 16th of November, and Ion the re- sult of her inspection we received the following report:—'Nurse's work.—The one case seen was in good nursing order.' 2. Nurse's equip- ment.—'Uniform, bag and cupboard neat.' 3. Manner in which nursing books are kept.— A ell kept.' 4. General remarks.—'A good account of the nursing work at Bala has been received, Nurse's work seems much appreci- ated.' Arthur L. B. Beile, Master of St. i Katharines. Financially, 1 was rather anxious last year !—n» moire grant from the Jubilee Institute, the loss of several kind friends, and the remarks of others that we were getting on so well we wanted less help. I think that is the worst of all, because it is no encouragement to do one's best. Fortunately, there are only a few such. As a matter of fact, our receipts are rather less for 1898 than the previous year, the flo from the Jubilee Institutemakes a serious difference. But that we knew must cease after two years, and we are very grateful for the assistance we had in beginning. What I think is really very satisfactory and encouraging is that the sum collected on Nurse Sunday this last year exceeds that of previous years by about X-3. It shows that the general interest and sympathy with the nursing of the sick poor increases rather than diminishes, that all are doing what they can afford to help in the good work, without expecting it to be known and noticed. I can only offer them in the name of the Nursing Committee our hearty thanks for their unostentatious charity. Balance at commencement of year in hand £ 92 18s. Id.; receipts from all sources, 9116 2s. 3d.; expenditure, JE124 18s. 9d. There was thus a balance in Treasurer's hands now of £ 101 14s. 7d. Our expenditure last year was more than in 1897. This was caused by the larger sum spent in railway travelling, and by our employing a temporary nurse while Nurse Jones took her holiday in July. Nurse Lathim, who came from Manchester to take her place, seems to have been very suc- cessful, though she could not speak Welsh, and gave satisfaction to doctor and patients. For her part, she said she was much pleased with her five weeks in Bala. and that everyone had been very kind and helpful to her. The Work- ing Committee has met 12 times during the past year, regularly once a month. Its members attend very well. We have done our best to carry on the work and I hope have given satisfaction. But we are not infallible, and if anyone wishes to ask any question or suggest anything, we hope he or she will do so to-day. Though there are seven or eight other Dis- trict Nursing Association in Merionethshire— at Barmouth, Dolgelley, Festiniog, and else- where, I find that Bala and Penllyn is held up among them as ac example of success, of popu- larity, of unity of feeling and purpose in pro- moting the public good. Long may it be so. And so long as we have you,r confidence that we are doing our best, we hope that you will support us in the work, and above all, so long as we have the privilege of Nurse Jones as our nurse, I do not fear, any falling off in our prestige among District Nursing Association. At the Poor Law Conference at Bangor, I find that Mr. Bircham spoke in great praise of the nursing movement in Merionethshire. A good name, a fair reputation is considered the most valuable possession, and so it is. But like all other valuable possessions, it requires keeping up. You must all help to keep Merionethshire the example to Wales, and Penllyn the model to Merioneth. • Well, I will not detain you no longer. all this is very dull hearing. But it is not dull to think how much pain and suffering has been re- lieved, how many weary days lightened and cheered by Nurse Jones' skill and kindness. And how much good she has done by educa- tion in the value of cleanliness and ventilation. To keep this up and going, we ask for your continued support again this year. Mr. Evan Jones, J.P., Bodrennig, in moving the adoption of the report and the financial statement, said the work done by the nurse during the year had been of an exceptionally progressive character. The statement just read led them to hope that the institution would not be short-lived, but will continue progressing both in the nature and quality ot the work. He was glad to hear that it was proposed, if the finances allowed it, to have a. second nurse. He was pleased also to learn that the doctors were doing all they could to instil into the minds of heir patients the im- portance of proper nursing. Mr. L. J. Davies, J.P., Llanuwchllyn, in seconding, said the lectures delivered by Nurse — — — Jones at Llanuwchllyn had been most highly appreciated. It was but fair to give credit, for j the initiating of these lectures to Mrs. Jones, Plasdeon, she was the moving spirit, and the success that attended these lectures was due to | her exertions. He hoped the lectures would be repeated. He did not think it redounded to the credit of the churches and chapels, that, the collections only amounted to 93-5. He had seen one little chapel at Llanuwchllyn collect 940 on a special occasion towards another ob- ject. If they prayed less and contributed more it would be much better (laughter). He did not think they, as Nonconformists were fulfilling their duties in these matters. They talked of triumphs of war and of peace, but he did not think there were heroes 01 heroines to be compared to nurses when they discharged their duties faithfully and conscientiously. The resolution was passed unanimously. APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. The Rev. L. D. Jenkins, rector, in proposing the re-appointment of the following as Execu- tive Committee:—President, Sir H. B. Robert- son Vice presidents, Mrs. Price and Miss Jones, Frondderw; Mrs. Dean, Mrs. Parry, Miss Parry, Mrs. Burton (Hon. Sec.), and Mr. J. T. Jones (Hon. Treasurer), said the names of the Committee were such as were very re- presentative of the people of the district, and were persons in whom they had the utmost con- fidence. They could not entrust the work in safer hands than to those who had done so successfully in the past. Mr. J. C. Evans, M.A., County School, in seconding the proposition, said institutions of this kind were the noblest fruits and brightest flowers of Christianity. They helped to em- phasise andi to perpetuate the characteristic of Christ's life, and however varied their doctrines might be, he felt certain they would always be one in doing all they could to heal the sick and help the weak. This motion was unanimously carried. It was further resolved that Mrs. Jones, Maesyrhedydd, and Mrs. Williams, The Col- lege, be added to the Committee. CONTRIBUTIONS BY CHURCHES AND CHAPELS. The Chairman proposed a vote of thanks to the churches and cnapels for their contribu- tions. Personally, he would like to see the private subscriptions still more increased, as this would show that the country was becoming more in favour of the movement. In seconding, Mr. J. Parry, J. P., Glantegid, said it was gratifying to observe an increase in the collections of the places of worship. This appeared to him to signify that the institution was taking roots. He was glad to note also that the Committee had a substantial balance in hand—there was nothing more encouraging than a good' reserve fund. The meeting passed an unanimous vote of thanks to the several places of worship. Votes of thanks to the medical men, the nurse, Mrs. Burton, and the ahairman, ter- minated a most successful meeting.

The wit of eminent lawyers in our modem courts is essentially fee-bill. Repartee has probably lost as many men their jobs as it has made others their reputations. Train up the servant girl in the way she should go, and the first thing you know is that, she's gone. How did you like that little dog I gave your wife ?' < I never saw one that I liked better. It died the next day.' 'Do you have any rule to regulate shaking hands ?' Well, I never shake hands with any man oftener than he shakes hands with me.' She: 'The play was affecting. I was moved to tears.' He 'Very. I should have liked to see the woman ahead of me removed two tiers.' Editor You live in a boarding-house, don't you ?' Paragraphic: 'I do.' Editor C How is it we never get any tough- spring chicken jokes from you?' Paragraphic: 'They can't afford chickens where I board. I write hash jokes.'

CORWEN. BOARD OF GUARDIANS. Friday, January 20th, present, Dr. D. R. .Jones (chairman), Miss Hughes, Messrs. John Lloyd, R. R. Roberts and Godfrey JJarry, Corwen Isaac Hughes and Robert Wynne, Gwyddelwern; W. E. Williams and Thomas Owen, Llangar; Owen Evans and Rev. Ivan T. Davies, Llandrillo; Messrs. F. E. Rooper, Llansantffraid G. C.; William Ellis and John Williams, Llangollen Rural; Joseph Nansen and Mrs. Roberts, Llan- gollen Urban, Messrs. D. W. Roberts and Richard Hughes, Llantyssilo; E. O. V. Lloyd Rhagatt; John Parry Pontfadog; Thomas Hughes (clerk), Dr. Horatio E. Walker, E. Derbyshire and E. Foulkes (relieving officers) R. Williams (master). STATISTICS. Outrelief administered during the past fort,iight-Corwen district, per Mr. E. Derbyshire, £56 3s. Od. to 209 paupers cor- responding fortnight last year E57 Os. 6d. to 241 paupers. Llangollen district, per Mr. E. Foulkes, X.54 5s. 6d. to 229 paupers cor- responding fortnight last year £59 9s. Od. to 249 paupers. Number of inmates in the house 51; corresponding week last year 53. Number of vagrants relieved during the past fortnight 35 against 39 for the corre- sponding fortnight of last year. VACCINATION. A letter was read from the Local Govern- ment Board with reference to the fees pro- posed to be paid by the Guardians to their Public Vaccinators. As regards the mileage fees proposed under article 3 (1) (b) of the vaccination order 1898 the Board did not consider that the fee for successful vaccina- tions should depend on the actual number of miles travelled by the Public Vaccinator in order to secure the vaccination of each particular child, but they recognise that cir- cumstances, may retader it desirable that a higher fee should be paid in respect of suc- cessful vaccinations performed at specified places situated at a distance from the Pub- lic Vaccinator's residence, and they are pre- pared to consider proposals of this nature. For instance the Board would be willing to approve a fee of 5s. for all successful vac- cinations of children performed within two miles of the Public Vaccinator's residence; I 7s. 6d. over 2 and under 4 miles, and so on or a fee of 5s. in parish A. 7s. 6d. (or as may be agreed) in parish B. and so on. The fee under article 3 (1) (a) of the order not to exceed one third of the fee under article 3 (1) (b). Resolved upon the motion of Mr. W. E. Williams, seconded by Dr. Jones that the matter be again referred to the vaccination committee. EMPLOYMENT OF WORKHOUSE CHILDREN. A letter and the following resolution passed by the Guardians of Hunslet Union (Leeds), with reference to Ithe employment of workhouse children were read—' that having regard to the altered condition of the times since the general consolidated order of the 24th July 1847 was issued, to the inability of the majority of large employers to take indoor apprentices, to the risk of lads going out to work without having a home to go, and generally to the increasing difficulties of Guardians in large centres of industry in finding situations for friendless lads chargeable to them, this Board is of opinion that the time has arrived when Boards of Guardians should be empowered to bind lads as out-door apprentices, and to provide and maintain a small home for their accommodation until able to earn their own livelihood.' It was ordered that the resolution be laid on the table. TREAT TO THE INMATES. The master reported that on Friday even- ing the 13th inst, Dr. Horatio E. Walker, Mrs. Walker, Miss Walker, Mrs. Pugh, and Miss Pugh, The Bank, Mrs Williams, The Vicarage; Mrs. Williams, Glandwr Mrs. W. Jones (chemist), and Mrs Williams, Ty Isa, had provided a grand treat for the inmates at the Assembly Room. At 5 o'clock the inmates sat down to an excellent tea with a variety of cakes to which they did ample justice. In the evening a miscell aneous entertainment was held in which several ladies and gentlemen took part, and which was thoroughly enjoyed by the oldest as well as the youngest of the inmates. The climax of the evening however was a grand Christmas tree set up in the middle of the room, and full of presents such as tobacco and pipes for the men, tea and sugar for the women, and oranges, sweets, and toy books for the children. The Chairman (Dr. Jones), said he had great pleasure in proposing to Dr. Walker, and the others who had helped him the warmest thanks of the Board for their kindness and generosity. He happened to turn in to the room that evening, and found that everything was got up very attractively in fact it could not be better. The motion was seconded by the Rev. Ivan T. Davies, and carried unanimously. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: A letter was read from Miss Jones, Tyny- celyn, Bryneglwys thanking the Guardians for their kind expression of sympathy on the occasion of the death of her brother Mr. Maurice Jones. CENTRAL POOR LAW CONFERENCE. The Clerk was directed to order half a dozen copies of the report of the Central Poor Law Conference.

EDEYRNION RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL. Friday, January 20th, present, Messrs. R. R. Roberts (chairman); Edward Davies, Bettws G.G.; Dr. Jones, R. E. Jones, John Lloyd, Godfrey Parry and Miss Hughes, Corwen Messrs. Isaac Hughes and Robert Wynne, Gwyddelwern W. E. Williams and Thomas Owen, Llangar; Owen Evans and Rev. Ivan T. Davies, Llandrillo, Dr. White (Medical Officer of Health), Messrs. E. Edwards (surveyor), and J. Evans (acting clerk). LLANSANTFFRAID G. D., WATER- WORKS. A letter was read from the Parish Coun- cil of Llansantffraid, G.D; calling the attention of the District Council to the great need of supplementing the supply of water at Llansantffraid on account of the new houses that are being added to the place. It was only an exceptional thing that they had a plentiful supply of water in the summer time, and when an additional 10 or 12 new houses with baths and water closets would be built before this time next year, it had become necessary to request the District Council to give their immediate and serious consideration toltheir case. In reply to the Rev. Ivan T. Davies Mr. W. E. Parry superintendent of the waterworks said that the only farmer using the water in his farm yard was his father, and he paid 15?. a year extra for it whether he paid enough or not for the water so used he was not pre- pared to say. Mr. W. E. Williams, thought it very unsatisfactory to leave it between the son and the father to decide upon the price to be paid for the water, and thought they should go by a better system than that. He proposed that a committee be appointed to inspect the reservoir and over- haul previous arrangements so that a satis- factory basis may be arrived at. The motion was seconded by Mr. Isaac Hughes and carried. The following committee were appointed to meet on Tuesday next, and report fully to the next meeting:—Messrs R. R. Roberts (chairman), W. E. Williams, Dr. Jones, Rev. Ivan T: Davies, E. P. Jones and E. Edwards (surveyor). REMOVAL OF HOUSE REFUSE AT CORWEN. Mr. E. Davies, Trewyn, gave notice that he would discontinue the removal of the house refuse from Corwen, after the 31st day of March next. The Clerk was directed to advertise in the local papers for tenders for doing the work in future. THE PROPOSED BRIDGE OVER THE DEE. It was reported that a provisional agree- ment had been entered into between the Council and Messrs. J. and C. Davies, con- tractors, of Glynceiriog, with respect to the masonry work of the bridge. The Clerk had also written to the Local Government Board for information on one complicated point, and until the Board's reply would come to hand, it was considered impracticable to pro- ceed further in the matter for a while. CORWEN FIRE BRIGADE. A letter was read from the Corwen Parish Council applying on behalf of the recently formed voluntary Fire Brigade for an additional length of 500 feet of hose-pipe, as the existing length would be totally inade- quate in case of a fire happening a little way out of the main street. Upon the motion of Dr. Jones seconded by Mr. R. E. Jones, the matter was referred to the Hydrants Committee. STATION MASTER'S HOUSE AT LLANDRILLO. The Inspector reported that he had care- fully inspected the new house built by the Great Western Railway Company at Llan- drillo, for their station master. The house —a good substantial building was made in accordanc with Bye-laws in force in the district with the exception that the front windows were too small-the kitchen and parlour windows, by 9 square inches, and the bedroom windows above, by 14 square feet. All the rooms are well ventilated. Rain water was found coming in very badly through the front wall, making parts of the front rooms very damp and uncomfortable, and something should be done at once to remedy this defect. A new well had been made on the premises, which gives an ample supply of wholesome water. A drain cesspool had also been made and were well trapped and properly ventilated. Resolved that the attention of the Com- pany be called to the dampness in the house, and that they be asked what they are going to do to remedy the same before the plans are passed. ALMSHOUSES AT CORWEN. The Clerk was directed to give the trustees of the Almshouses at Corwen, notice re- questing them either to repair, and make these houses fit for habitation or have them vacated within the next two months. MELINYWIG WATER SUPPLY. The Inspector reported having made an inspection of the existing two public wells at Melinywig, and it was his opinion that as they are below the level of the river, and the road, it would only be a waste'of money to try and remedy them. He suggested that a well be made on a higher ground on the spot chosen by the inhabitants, and he estimated the cost of the same to be from £6 to £7. The spot suggested being on the boundary between Edeyrnion and Ruthin Rural Districts, the surveyor was instructed to write to the surveyor of Ruthin with the view of having the Ruthin Rural District Council tolpay a share of the expense. NEW BUILDINGS. Plans of new houses proposed to be erected by Mr. D. R. Jones, at Llansantffraid, G.D., were approved of, signed and sealed.

THE GREAT BANK ROBBERY. The mysterious disappearance of X60,610 worth of banknotes was discovered at Parr's bank a little after noon on Monday. The city police were at once communicated with, and Detective-inspectors Sagar, Davidson, Henry, Cox, and Murphy, under the direc- tion of Superintendent M'William, pro- ceeded to the bank, where they worked till midnight, assisted by all the chief officials of the bank, and a staff of 150 clerks. The utmost reticence was observed until the last moment, when Mr. Disney, the manager of Messrs. Mullens and Bosanquet, solicitors to the Bank Association, decided that it would be to the interests of all concerned, to furnish a list of the missing notes. The most extraordinary feature of the [ affair is that after twelve hours' investiga- tion. and the keenest overhauling of the books, no one is yet in a position to say how or when the notes disappeared. It does not seem possible that it was a burglary—there is no evideuce about the bank of injured doors or rifled safes-and, so far atf. least, no one of the officials of the bank or any employee has come under the slightest suspicion. A notice has been circulated broadcast I specifying the numbers, dates, and values of all the notes, but it is noteworthy that in this official notice they are described as stolen or mislaid.' The notice adds that 'should any o: the notes be presented, it is requested that immediate information be given to Messrs. Mullens and Bosanquet, solicitors, Jl, Queen Victoria Street, E.C., or to Superintendent M'William, of the Detective Department of the City of Lon- don Police, Old Jewry, E C.' Copies of the notice have been sent to all banks and money changers, as well as to the leading police offices.

Jews are not allowed to buy land of Russia. Next to real musical culture is the ability to seem delighted when yoa are bored. Young men try to air their knowledge; old men try to avoid airing their ignorance. Isn't your gas stove expensive ?' It wasn't until the gas company found out we had it.' It is said that truth lies at the bottom of a well. Perhaps that is why the lawyer pumps the witness. Teacher Who built the Suez Canal ?' Small Boy: 'Nobody,sir. Hit wuzn't built. Hit wuz dug.' To snuff a candle out accidentally is a sign of marriage.' 'Yes, and to down a lamp intentionally is a sign of courtship.' So you feel yon cannot marry him ?' 'Yes; I am fully decided.' Why, don't you like him?' 1 Oh, I like him well enough, but I can't get him to propose.' Three crows sat on the limb of a tree, < And they were as dry as crows could be; J Quoth one old crow, I really think, ( We'll surely die with naught to drink.' < Quoth another crow, I don't see why, i When there's a crowbar standing hard by.' <

BALA. _¿- THE FLOOD AND ITS CONCOM- IITANT DISTRESS. LAST week, especially towards the latter part of it, Bala was visited by a flood of unusual severity. Unusual, as over 20 years has elapsed since a flood of similar magnitude was discerned. On Friday evening, the combined effects of wind and rain caused Bala Lake to overflow its shores, with the result that, next morning, Aran Lane and Plasey Street appeared as one sheet of water, 12 inches in depth, and in some places much more. Ooe old woman of over 80, who slept on the ground floor of one of the houses, was in imminent danger of drowning, the clothing on both sides of the bed being already immersed. Measures were at once taken, with break of day, to remove the above, and other decrepit old women, to a place of safety. The ground floors of each house were in the same state, and the family were obliged to beat a retreat to the upper rooms, where they had per- force to remain during the whole of Saturday. As will be seen from the report of the Board of Guardians, the Relieving Officer was instructed to relieve the distressed, it goes without saying that that gentleman took active measures to do so. It was rather a novel sight to witness one volunteer going from one house to another, handing up supplies to the upper windows by means of a pitchfork, and another wading through the water up to his knees to relieve other sufferers. The meadows and fields around Bala were covered with water, and the Dee, as usual at times of floods, overflowed its banks in all direc- tions. On Monday last, a meeting was held at the County Hall, to consider the best means of allevi- ating the distress in Plasey, and it was decided to hold an Entertainment the next day. The follow- ing ladies undertook to sell tickets, and to distri- bute the relief :-Mrs. R. LI. Jones Mrs. Jones, N. & S. W. Bank; Mrs. H. Williams, The College; Mrs. J. W. Roberts and Miss Parry, Tremaran with Mr. Edward Jones, Relieving Officer. On Tuesday, at the Vestry Room of the C.M. Chapel, the entertainment was held, under the presidency of Mr. R. LI. Jones, when the following pro- gramme was gone through Address by the chairman. Solo, Canu yr eos,' by Miss Grace A. Pugh. SODG, 'Bwthvn yr amddifad,' by Miss M. C. Davies. Recitation, by Miss J. E. Davies. Duett, by Miss Jane Hughes and Mr. Evan Lloyd. Solo, by Mrs. Cadwaladr Lloyd. Violin solo, by Mr. David Denman. Re- citation, by Mr. J. T. Hughes..Solo, 'Arm, arm ye brave,' by Mr. R. Thomas. Solo, by Mrs. H. Williams. The second part was occupied by the display of lantern views, the lantern being skilfully manipu- lated by Mr. W. T. Jones. The entertainment was a grand success, and a substantial sum was realized for the charitable object in view. It is but fair to give credit for the forming of the pro- gramme chiefly to Mr. G. Roberts (Gwrtheyrn), assisted by Messrs. R. Ll. Jones, M. T. Jones, and R. Evans.

A PEERAGE ROMANCE. AN ORGAN-GRINDER BECOMES AN EARL. The death occurred on Sunday, at his, town house, 60, Queen's Gate, London, S.W., of Eari'Poulett, at the age of 71; and in the matter of. succession to the earldom an extraordinary state of things comes to a head. The dead* earl, who v, as the sixth, was a well known character in his youth and middle age. Educated at Sandhurst, he serv- ed with the 54th Regiment, the 2nd Queen's Royals, and the 22nd Regiment in India. He was engaged in the expedition from Peshawur to the Borol Valley in 1853, and was present at the storming of the heights, gaining the medal and clasp. He was a well-known hunting man and steeple chaser in his time. He owned The Lamb, the winner of the Grand National in both 1'068 and 11871 and Banazal (by Flying Dutchman), the winner of 27 steeple- chases and hurdle races, and the Grand Baden-Baden Steeplechase in 1869. Deceased was thrice married. He first espoused, at the age of 22, at Portsea, Elizabeth Lavinia Newman, the daughter of a Landport pilot; secondly, at the age of 44, Emma Sophia Johnson and thirdly, at the age of 51, Rose de Melville His first wife had a son, born during the first year of marriage; and his third wife had a son, born in 1883. The eldest son of the Earls Poulett always takes the title of Viscount Hinton. Both the son of the first wife, and the sen of the third are called Viscount Hinton, and there is some prospect of trouble over the succession. The son of the earl's first wife is well known about,, London, where he plays a barrel-organ in the streets. The organ bears a notice which states—' I am Viseount Hinton, eldest son of Earl Poulett. I have adopted this as a. means of earning a living, my father having refused to assist me through no fault of mv own.' The question now arises, will this organ- grinder be allowed to inherit the earldom, with its magnificent domain of Hinton St. George, Cr,ewkerne, Somersetshire (worth some thousands a year), and its patronage of three livings ? Under ordinary circumstances there would be no doubt about the organ grinder's right of inheritance. Indeed, it is doubtful whether there is any legal bar to his succes- sion to. the earldom. But some of the re- ference books—' Who's Who,' for instance- ignore his claims, and give the son of the third wIfe, who is now in his 16th year, as the future earl There is a painful story which leads to this state of things. The dead earl, when a harumscaram youth, is said to have made a bet that he would marry the first woman he met landing on his return to England. ji Whether this be so or not, he certainly mar- ried the Landport pilot's daughter after a very brief acquaintance and when, within a few months of the marriage, she gave birth, to a son—the man who now plays the organ !—the earl repudiated paternity, and the. couple lived apart thereafter. Be allowed' his wife an income, but this died with her. in 1871; and he refused to have anything to do with her son. But, born as he was in. wedlock, the organ-grinder now claims the- earldom and it is not easy to see how his claims are to be upset. Hinton House has been barricaded, and the entrance gates locked in view of possi- bilities.