The Cardigan Bay Visitor

ABERYSTWYTH. BOARD OF GUARDIANS, IoDAY, JCLY 3RD. Present Mr W. A. Miller, vice-chairman, pre- siding the Rev T. A. Penry, Messrs G. Fosett Roberts, B. E. Morgan, J. J. James, and T. E. Salmon, Aberystwyth Edward Jones, Ceuln- maesmiwr; Thomas Jenkins. Cyfoethybreum; J. B. Morgan, Cynnullmawr Richard James. Henllys Thomas Powell, Llanfihangel Upper E. J. Evans, Llangwyryfon John Jon"s, Llan, rhystyd Richard Thomas, Tirymynach David Lloyd, Vaenor Loer; Richard Jenkins, Llan- cynfelin James Jones, Llanbadarn Lower; and Hugh Hughes, clerk. Stati-i' <>>■. —Out-re lief administered duringthe past fortnight: Aberystwyth district, per Mr Thomas Vaughan. f48 S-; 3d "to 159 paupers, an increase of 7s 7d in relief and of 2 paupers. Llanfihang 1 district, per Mr J, J. Hughes, Od to 1S5 paupers, an increase of £1 l-t in relief and a decrease of 6 paupers and liar district, per Mr J. Morgan, t42 is Od to 134 paup-rs, a decrease of 3 paupers and of JE1 16s in relief. Number iti the House, 33 last year, corresponding period 44. Number of vagrants relieved during the pa t fortuight, 22 Jat year, 21. TheTreamreship. —The Chairman read a letter from Mr J. R. Rets, the treasurer, nominating Mr H. F. Roberts instead of Mr Broadie Griffith, who has left Aberystwyth for another branch, to sign on behalf of the Treasurer.—The Guardians constnttd to the arrangement BoanUn-! Oat— Satisfactory reports were read from the lady visitors in respect of children boarded out. Tin- ofL'itto.—The Clerk reported on the case of Latto who last week was brought before tie magistrates on a charge of having deserted his wife and children. The Clerk added that THE man gave & reason satisfactory to the magistrates for LEAVING his wife. He was a most respectable man and won the entire sympathy of the magistrates, He had now taken the chddren with him and a girl who was in service AT Aberystwyth had given notice and in- tended going to live with her father who had a comfortable home. The Guardians expressed their satisfaction at the report. Plastering.—The tender of Messrs E. Edwards and Son of for plastf ring at the House was ac- cepted. The other tender was £9 5-. Can a Person i¡¡8i,t on Outdoor Relief Mr B. E. Morgan read a paragraph from the Local Govern- ment Board Chronicle in which it was asked if the guardians having offered the house, were responsible if the person refused and harm came to him in consequence. The answer was that the refusal of a person to enter the workhouse did not relieve the Guardians from their RESPODS bi'ity. The proper course was to direct the relieving officer to watch the case.—Mr James Jones asktd if that wa3 good law ?—The Clerk thought it rather quibbling. If a woman said she would cummt suicide and the relieving officer stood by, the Guar- dians would not be responsible. He did not thiuk it good law at all.—Mr Salmon asked if THE woman refused to enter the House and starved ?—The Clerk That would be suicide. Supposing you food to a woman and she refuses to eat that sort of food, the Guardians would not be responsible for the consequences.—Mr Salmon A person of tht sort would be a sort of imbecile.—The Clerk If you offer the House to a person you offer food and lodging and if that persou does not choose to take them, then the Guardians cannot surely be res- ponsible if the person starves. It is the same with relief in kind. A relieving officer oUr a person an order on a grocer for relief in kind and surely the Guardians would not be held responsible if that person refused to go to the grocer wIth the order. The Board rose about half-past twelve. TOWN COUNCIL, TUESDAY, JULY 4TH.— Present Councillor D. C. Roberts, mayor, pre- siding; Alderman Captain Doughton Councillors C. M. Williams, R. J. Jones, E. P. Wynne, Issac Hopkms, T. E. Salmon, G. Croydon Marks, and J. P. Thomas Messrs A. J. Hughes, TOIFN clerk and Rees Jones, bdrough surveyor. THE OYSTER. The TOWN CLERK said he forgot his name, but the man who last year was charged with selling oysters on the Terrace and Parade bad called on him on the previous day and was present to ask the Council to reconsider their decision with reference to not ALLOWING him to vend oysters upon the Parade or the beach. He told the nuui that be thought the Council would. not eatertaiu the application. The MAYOR suggested that the application should be referred to the Public Works Committee. Mr MARKS asked if the matter had nut been already decided ? The MAYOR — QUITE so. What was the decision laS., year The Towx CLKKK replied that the decision was ot tc allow Mr J. P. THOMAS asked if it would not be a con- venience to the public to have oysters and things hawked ab mt the Parade but MRC. M WILLIAMS said if people wanted oysters they could be g t iu t ie shops. Captiin DORT;HT"V believed that the best way to study the MTF rests of the ratepayers would be no- to GRANT th- app'ication and moved to that effect, arm ir was u lai.IMOU-DY agreed to rpfus" tlu- application, Ir C M. WILLIAMS observing that tne refusal WIS male in the inerests cf the pubi.c. CARADOG ROAD. Professor Edwards wrote asking that the name should be placed on Caralog ruad, but Mr C. M. WILLIAMS p.) nted cut that it was a private road and that it was not the practice of the Council to name private streets. It was not part of the COUIl- cil s duty to do so. There w-re other private streets without names and that was the reason why the names had not been put up. The MAYOR suggested that the Town Cl, rk should write to Proressor Edwards to THAT effect and the suggestion was adopted. FOOTPATHS. The Secretary of the Footpaths. Association wrote as follow s in respect of a meeting held by the Committee a year agn-.—"July 4th, 1S99. Dear sir. — We beg to draw the atteD'ion of your Council to the unsatisfactory state of som", paths within the borough and to call your special atten- tion to the path leading to Brynymor and Cwm Woods which WE consider most dangerous and call- IDg for immediate attention. The Pendinas pel1sh improvements have not been completed. Seats were arranged for to be placed on convenient sp its, but hitherto this much-needed impiovement has not carried out. In view of the season which is now running, it would be conferring a boon on the walking public to have these seats placed with- out further DELAY. We 1IIhK> yror ETTEETIOBRTIR a footpath outside the borough, viz., the one lead-1 ing from Brynllwyd to Clarach. This path has been blocked by the Aberystwyth Improvement Society who have erected high wires across a por- tion of it. The Society has communicated with Mr Croydon Marks to call his attention to the same, but as yet no reply has been received to our com- munication. We ask the Council to take steps to have the path re-opened again to the public." Mr J. P. THOMAS proposed and Mr HOPKINS seconded that the matter should be referred to the Public Works Committee. Mr C. M. WILLIAMS believed a resolution was passed by the Couocil about a year ago with refer- ence to seats and stiles on Pendinas and he was under the impression that the whole work had been completed. It was unanimously agreed that the Surveyor on hearing from ttoe owners should PLACE the seats on the path. The date of that meeeting was the 22nd ot August of last year. The STRVEYOR said the stnles were put in order, at the time. Mr MARKS—As this letter will be reported, of course I must make a reservation on the point of law. When the ground was purchased from the present owner, we were protected with regard to that particular path—or alleged path. Mr C. M. WILLIAMS—At least your Company was ? Mr MARKS —Yes. Mr C. M. WILLIAMS—No matter what protec- tion yon have it does not affect the right of the public. I have been over the path scores of times. Mr MARKS repeated that his Company was pro- tected and admitted that it did not affect public rights. Mr C. M. "WILLIAMS added that he did not blame the Improvement Company. At the same time. the Council must do all they possibly could to pro- tect public rights." Captain DOCGHTOX said perhaps Mr Marks would attend the meeting of the Committee when the matter was considered. The letter was then referred to the Works Com- mittee. POSTAL SERVICE. The Town Clerk read the following letter from Mr Denniss, manager of the Cambrian Railways Company June ,21th, Dear Sir,—Referring to your letter of April 22nd, I have pleasure in in forming you that arrangements have now been made with the Post Office authorities f;1' the morning mail to arrive at Aberystwyth at 6 40 instead of 6 55 a.m. as at present and for the even- ing mail to leave your town at 6-25 p.m. instead of II-0, commencing on July 1st. But for the dltfi, culties in the train service between London and Weishpocl there would have been an earlier arrival of the morning mail and we purpose con- tinuing the negociations in the hepe that further improven;°nt may very shortly take place and you may be sure that this point will be followed up energetically. Captain DOCGFFTOX said it was an easy matter to place figures on the time table. The great thing was to run the trains punctually. The 6 40 would probably mean eizht o'clock. Mr C. M. WILLIAMS suggested that the Town Clerk should acknowledge the receipt and urge upen Mr Denniss to ARRANGE that the mail as far as possible should arrive a-t the time stated. It was easy to have TJ-40 on the time tables and to find the mail arriving half-past seven or a quarter to eight. There had been complaints ia SUMMER by vi.situ.-s owing to the late delivery of letters and the Council should urge upon the Railway Company to keep time. The Council had a man taking THE time of the arrival of trains at Aberystwyth during the day and it would 3e an excellent thing that he should take the time I )f the arrival of the mail as well. The Council should also urge upon the postal authorities that if in increased number of postmen were required now was the time to put them on and to make proper arrangements. No doubt, Aberystwyth was amentably behind in regard to its postal arrange- ments. Mr SALMON said that in other places letters were sorted on the journey and it would affect a great improvement if that were done at Aberystwyth. He had been talking to one or two of the sorters and they said it could be done during the journey. At the present time, sorting in the office after ar- meant a delay of over three quarters of an hour. Mr R. J. JONES said that suggestion had been made hy the Couacii more than once, but the postal authorities found some difficulty in carrying out the suggestion. He thought it rather premature t) make adverse remarks concerning Air Deuniss's letter. The Council should give him an oppor tuuity of showing whether the trains would be punctual or not. MRC. M. WILLLDlS-But past experience make us rather shy. The MAYOR said there could be no harm in draw- ing attention to the fa t. The Council had kept the times of arrival of trains and certainly tne record v.as no credit to any railway company. There would be no harm in writing the letter as suggested. MrC Al. WILLIAMS hoped there would be an improvement. He knew that Mr Denniss andthe officials were nllking a great effort to try tj im- prove the service. Mr R. J. JONES thought the Company should be encouraged and not adversely criticised before hand. Mr C. M. WILLIAM.- said the letter would only express a hope that time would be kept and past experienc- did not justify that hope. Mr J. P. THOMAS said it seemed to him that the Council were discussing two separate things—one the late arrival of trains and the other t ie delivery of letters. He thought the Council might write to the postal authorities and ask for more deliverers. With regard to the late airiv-al.<jf trains, ibere Jtas no much traffic that it was impossible to bring the trains in earlier. At the same time, it was most desirable that punctuality should be kept because there were great complaints by visitors. They suff red in coming and 'they suffered in going aod the suffering they had experienced in coming and the suffering they anticipated in going spoiled the pleasure of their visit to Aberystwyth. Captain DOUGHTON thought in fairness to the post officials at Aberystwyth that they could not do more than at present. The tact was the train did not arrive in tme and the remedy was the punctual arrival of trains. If the trains arrived punctually, the letters would he delivered in ample time before the departure of the morning trains. It was then agreed to write both to the railway company and to the postal authorities. APPLICATIONS. Letters from Mrs Rea asking for site terms for 10, Portland-street, on the ground that the house would have to be demolished and rebuilt, and fiom Mr T. Griffith, 65, Park-walk, Chelsea, for the lease or sale of a part of Budding's Farm, Llan- hadarn, were referred to the Finance Committee. ARE THE COUNCIL'S ARRANGEMENTS CARRIED OUT ? Mr J. P. THOMAS thought the present was the t me for the Council to consider whether the boats at Aberystwyth were overcrowded. It had been drawn to his att ntion several times during last week that boats were overcrowded and in the face of the disaster that had recently taken place at Pw.llheli the Council ought to look after the iner- ests of the ratepayers and visitors who come to Aberystwyth. He did not know what steps were taken, but means ought to be taken to inspect the boats. He did not know if there was an inspector. The MAYOR—On, yes. Mr THOMAS-Will youkiudly make itknownthat this inspector should see to it ? Mr R J. JONES—He has his duty to perform. Mr J. 1". TWnIAS- To call his attention to the overcrowding of these boats. Captain DOCGHTON rose to answer Mr Thomas, hut the Mayor called on Mr Wynne who was the the chairman of the Committee having the matter in hand. Mr WYNNE replied that he had nothing to ex ■pkin, <but berwoalrt cH-the attention of the-in< specter to the fact. He (Mr Wynne) iradjjo com' plaints of oversrowding and the iaspeetor hac re ceived strict instructions. Capta n DOUGHTON added that every precaution had been taken with regard to boating at Aberyst- wyth. It was impossible for anybody to do more than the Council had done. boats were in- spected. An inspec or was every year appointed by the Council. He was a stranger and in no way connected with the town. He inspected every boat large and small in the harbour and on the beach. He took note of everything demanding attention and made recommendations. A copy of the re- quirements was given to the Harbourmaster who is a C irporatioc official saw that everything recom- mended was carried out. When the recommenda- tions were carried out he gave the boatman a certi- ficate which he took to the Chief Constable or Sergeant and with ut which he could not get a 1 cence. Every boat was marked on the outside with the number of passengers each toat was tp carry and the Council had now an inspector in uni- form to'see that the number was not exceeded and to see that the regult tions were observed. Tiiere tore the Town Council could not do more than it had done to ensure the safety of people going upon the sea. In addition to tnat, the number carried by boats had been considerably reduced. For instance, boats that used to carry eleven had been r. ducfd to five and seven to three. Mr J. P. THOWAS said he was-exceedingly obliged to Captain Doughton for the explanation, an lit seemed to him that what he said was perfectly.tru^ But his point was this. Was it always with the knowledge of the Inspector or "ithoub his know- edge that the boats were overcrowded ? Tiity cer- tainty were cveroowded. ÛcasionaUy in times when there were excursions in the town. H. was not going to blame the Iuspeotor whom he took to he ex-Sergeant Morgan. He could not be on the beach all the time because he had ether work to do; but that was his (Mr Thomas's) complaint that dur- ing the times when the Iuspector was not 00 the beach those things took place which might end in disaster and be detrimental to AberystAyth during the summer. The MAYOR was sure they all felt the import- ance of the matter mentioned by Mr Thonus and whatever steps the Council could take to prevent .such disaster as that at Pwllheli he was sure it was tfreir duty to take. But, aa ONpfoth bõjígM6)Ç had said, the Council had taken every step. Of course, if Mr Thomas informed the Inspector of the cases he referred to, he might take proceedings was very desirable that the Council should at the commencement of the season, now their atten- tion had been specially called to the matter, should seriously draw the attention of the Inspector and boatmen to the complaint and require them to be careful in the future. Mr J. P. THOMAS thought that would be suffi- cient. The MAYOR did not think it would be sufficient as to the past for the statements made by Mr Thomas ought to be enquired into if there had been that continual overcrowding. Mr J. P. THOMAS—I don't say continual. It was last week. Captain DOUGHTON—Perhaps Mr' Tnomas can point out a case. Mr J. P. THOMAS—Not now. I only called at- tention to the fact that there was overcrowding in order that it should be attended te. The MAYOR was sure the Chairman of the General Purposes Committee would convene a meeting to consider the statement and in tne mean- time a letter could be written to the Inspector. Mr WYNNE thought it well if complaints were made to the Committee. There was a case recently of a lady and gentleman going out in a boat and being nearly swamped on the rocks, but it was afterwards proved that it was a private boat and not a hired boat. Captain DOUGHTON said there was one explana- tion to be made on that point. Boatmen were not allowed to lend their boats to private people with- out a certificated person in charge. Mr C. M. WILLIAMS, referring to a remark about the police, taid tne whole matter of licensing was in the hands of the Iuspector and Corporation officials and the police had nothing to do with it. PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE. In the absence of Alderman Peter Jones, Captain Doughton brought up the report of the Works Committee, which recommended that no water supply connection with private houses at Llan- badara be allowed except those included in the scheme which was sanctioned by the Council and approved by the Local Government Board the Surveyor was instructed to cut off any private supply. Mr D. J. Lewis waited on the Committee respecting tne drainage of his house in Great Dark- gate-street and the Surveyor was instructed to report on the matter. The SURVEYOR said the recommendation as to cutting off water supply had been attended to. The only connection made in that way was cut off and was now supplied from the town main at the scale applicable outside the borough. Mr J. P. THOMAS said a supply of water had been leased to Llanbadarn by the Aberystwyth Council for twenty-one years and probably the application was in accordance with the lease or Mr Hughes would not have made it. He should like to have the matter referred back for further discus- sion. Captain DOUGHTON siid the private supply of water was outside the scheme approved by the Local Government Board and sanctioned by the Council. The MAYOR added that if the Llanbadarn people desired any further concession, in regard to water supply, it Vas open to them to make a further appli- cation to the Coun-cil.. Mr J. P. THOMAS siid there were at Llanbadarn jardeners with large glass houses and men who kept posting stables and horses and carriages and it was not far to people who used but little water to have to pay for those who used a great deal. The people of Llanbadarn would have to pay for ) water by meter. In reply to Mr Hopkins, the Tows CLERK said there were certain terms in the scheme for a cer- ] tain grant and the Committee could not consider any further proposal. The report was then agreed to. HARBOUR COMMITTEE. Captain Doughton brought up the fo'lowing re- port of the Harbour Committee:—Your Com- mittee on the report of the Harbour Master and of the Town Clerk being satisfied that a breach of the byelaws under the Explosives Acts, 1S75, was com- mitted by the master of thea.s. Marmion,' be- longing to Nobel's Explosives Co., Limited, in refer- ence to the circumstances attending the landing of certain explosives in the Aberystwyth Har hour on the 26th May last, recommend that the Company be written to by the Town Clerk, calling their attention to this Dreach and requiring them to explain why the byelaws were disregarded, and in the absence of a satisfactory explanation and under- taking by the Company that the offence should not be repeated, the Council to decide what steps should be taken to prevent a rccurrrence of the acts complained of. An application was received from the Western Sea Fishery Board asking permission to place notices at diflrent places under the Har- bour Authority prohibiting the catching of shell- fish uuder regulation size. Your Committee recom- mend that the application be granted." In to a question, the TOWN CLERK said he had had no reply from the Explosives Company, he not having sent oti the letter before the report, was adopted. Tne report was adopted. FINANCE COMMITTEE. Mr C. M. Williams brought up the leport of the Finance Comm'ttee which recommended the pay- ment cf bills and of harbour annuities on IS-i 4d, amounting to income tax. A letter was read from the General Manager of the M. & M. Railway Company (the report continued) making application for a lease of premises adjoining their railway, now used by Messrs James and Co. as bottling stores. Your Committee recommend the granting of a lease for a term of fourteen v< ars from the 12th May last, terminable at the eixi of the seventh year by six months' notice on either side, at a. yearly rent of £20 for the first two years of the term and an annual rent of f25 for the remainder-of the term, with permission to the Com- pany to make the alterations and additions to the buildings shown on the plan submitted, to be approved of by the Borough Surveyor, the Company undertaking, at the expiration of the term, to restore, if required, the premises to their original condition to the satisfaction of the Borough Sur- veyor. Your Committee have for some time past had under consideration the question of reducing charges to lessees in respect of Corporation leases and agreements for leases and the Town Clerk has been seen upon the matter with the result that he has stat d that he is prepared to perform the whole of the professional work involved in the preparation and completion of agreements for leases, and of the leases and counter- parts, for an inclusive fee of two guineas, provided the Council return to the practice which was in force whilst a solicitor was appointed by the Ccr. poration and follow the course which your Com- mittee believe is that which is adapted by all other municipal corporations and owners of large estates situate locally or elsewhere, viz., of requiring such documenti to be prepared by the lessors' solicit Jr. Inasmuch as lessees would secure a very substantial reduction by this arrangement which your Com- mittee have been enabled to make with the Town Clerk, your Committee recommend that in future the Town Clerk, as lessors' solicitor, shall prepare all agreements for leases and leases and counter- parts for an inclusive, fee of two guineas, which fee your Committee consider a very reasonable one having regard to the work and responsibility involv. d. Lessees will, of course, as hitherto, be required to the out-of-pocket expenses for stamp duty, &c., in addition to the fee of two guineas and that all previous resolutions relative to preparation aDd charges for preparation of leases he rescinded. Tne following report of the Special Commjttee apro nted to draw up a list of the duties of the Town Cierk and the revision of his salary was presented and unanimously agreed to by your Committee and your Committee recommend that the report be adopted by the Town Council :— ( I) That tneTown Clerk shall attend all meetings oi4àe Cnunoil, "keep minutes of the proceedings, and record therein the names of those present; read over the minute- of theiast meeting aud sub- mit th.- same to the mayor or chairman, as the case nny be. for signature, and read all corres- pondence received by him since the previous meet- tug. (2) He shal prepare and deliver, or cause to he Ii. IIVc red, all >uunni nses of the meetings of the Couuci a >d shall include in all such summonses a -t&.t"ment of all i.usin..•-s to be trans cted there It so far as the same be known also to include there- in or annex there to, a copy of every report of com- mittees iutendid to b- laid before the C >uncil. (3) He shall peruse an-t conduct all correspondence of the Council according to their directions and preserve the same, as well as all letters, orders, or minute books, pipers, and documents belonging to the Conned, and keep copies of all letters sent hy him. (4) He shall c mmumc ite to th se, eral 1 officers aod persons employed by the Cou oil all oider." and d rections of th- Council, and report t, the Council any neglect or f dlure therein which comes to his knowledge. (5) He shall common cat; to ad applicants for b aws and renewal of leases immediately after the Council meeting, the terms upon which the Council have agreed to grant such leases or renewal of leises. (6) He shall give a'l necessary notices of and attend all elections of councillors, auditors, &c., and a h-ise the presiding and returning officers at such elec tions. (7) He shay givp all necessary nct cesof the annual revision of the Ifef. oi hutgesses and to make outtJlyother list tfi"at m iy be required-by*^iw. (8) tfê- shall prepare all notices to he given by the Council and see" that" the same are duly served or delivered (savfe such as are require&teHbe-Twfepared or served by any other offi(Jer;.9) He shall cause to be published all necessary notices and advertise ments relating to the business of the Council, aud shall prepare and transmit all reports or returns (parliamentary or otherwise) as to any question or matter connected with or relating to the admini stration of any Act or Acts of Farliament affrcring the Council as a municipal corpora'ion, urban dis trlct Council and burial board. (10) He shall gi "e notice and attend all public and other meetings withm the borough convened by the Mayor, in his official capacity, in pursuance of a r quisitmn or otherwise. He shall also attend any loc il inquiry held by the Local Government Board or by any ent department; He ah ail at- tend all meetings of the Einance Committee and Public Works Committee, and also to attend other committees when requested to do so by the Chair- man of such committee. (12) H shall advise the Council and committees on all matters coming officially before them and shall perform all duties from time to time cast upon him by statute. (13) He sha 1 prepare all deeds, bonds, covenants, and agreements entered into by, with, or on behalf of the Council, and shall conduct all prosecutions at petty or special sessions. (14) He shall perform all legal work required by the Council and no charge for the eame shall be made, except conveyancing bu-iness, parliamentary work, or obtaining provisional crders, prosecu- tions at assizes or quarter or general sessions. (15) He shall perform all duties whatsoever apper- taining to tne office of town clerk, clerk to the Urban District Council and Burial Board, and shall observe and execute all orders and directions of the Council applicable to such offices. Your Com- mittee having revised and defiued the duties of the Town Clerk, su bject to the approval of the Council, have very carefully considered the question of the re-adjustment of his salary. Mr A. J. Hughes has held the office for nearly nineteen years, and although his duties have enormously increased for many years past, his salary has remained at the original a nount. Enquiries having been made as to the salaries paid to town clerks in numerous other boroughs, your Committee find that the salary paid to Mr Hughes is greatly below the average paid by those boroughs. In arriving at a decision your committee having regard tn the fact that many duti.s connected with the Burial Board hitherto performed by Mr Hughes as clerk to that Board have been transferred to the Borough Ac- countant's department, and that the separate salary of £20 per annum payable to Mr Hughes has ceased to be paid s nce September last, and they would also refer the Council to the duties of the Town Clerk as defined in the report of the Committee, and it will bt seen that considerable work hitherto done by the Town Clerk for which he has been paid in addition to his salary wdl (subject to the exceptions in Clause 14) in future be done by him as town clerk and will be included in his duties, and the extra payments made in the past will not in future have to be mad Your Com-ruttee unanimously recommend that having re- gard to the considerable changes and additions made in the duties which the Town Clerk will in future have tc perform, his salary be fixed at £180 per annum as and from the 1st of January, 1S99 Mr C. M. WILLIAMS moved and Mr R. J. JOES seconded the adoption of the report. Referring to leases and agreements, Mr Williams added that it was desirable that the charges should be as low as possible and having regard to the payments made 12s 6d and 3s for a lease only apart from the agreement, he thought Mr Hughes i had met the Committee exceedingly favourably and had quoted a very low figure indeed for that important work. That having been done, the Com- mittee unanimously recommended that the Council should .revert to the system in vogue when a corporation solicitor was in office and direct that all Corporation leases should be prepared by Mr Hughes which was the practice without 1 exception in other corporations and on large J estates and it was only reasonable that it should be adopted at Aberystwyth. He thought the Council might congratulate the lessees of the ] town in securing that special charge. All parties s holding land under the Corporation would only have to pay that greatly reduced free. [ Mr J. P. THOMAS said he was inclined to think t that ratepayers should be allowed to go where they t liked for their solicitors to look after their deeds, I r [t would be rather a safety and he did not Kke to force the hands of the ratepayers. The MAYOR—It is leaseholders and not rate- payers. Mr J. P. THOMAS—Who constitute ratepayers. The MAYOR—Not ot necessity. Mr J. P. THOMAS—The majority of them. The MAYOR—I am glad to think that, of course. Mr J. P. THOMAS added that there was safety in looking after the deeds by another solicitor to see that they were as they should be, as two heais were better than one in that matter as in every- thing else. He did not quite like to bind the lessee to go to one solicitor He would employ Mr Hughes in his own case, but he did not think it fair to bind the whole community in that way. Mr MARKS said in the case of legal work the gentleman who performed the largest number of transfers was the one most likely to do it properly. It would be very unfortunate to give it to someone to try his prentice nand upon. Therefore he sup- ported the recommendation. Air ISAAC HOPKINS said if any one wanted another solicitor to look over his deed, he could engige one to go down to the Town Clerk's office and see that the deed was all right before he got it. The recommendation having been adopted, Mr C. M. WILLIAMS moved the adoption of the para- graphs defining the duties of the Town Clerk and fixing his future salary at £180 instead of £100. In doing so, Mr Williams explained that many of the things now included in the Town Clerk's future duties had been paid for previously in addition to the salary, such as the preparation of bonds and contracts ani prosecutions and so on. The Com- mittee also obtained returns from fifty-three boroughs and the average was exactly what it was now proposed to pay the Town Clerk at Aberyst- wyth. He thought that must be satisfactory to the Town Chrk aud to the Corporation. In arriv- ing at that figure the Committee also considered the duties hitherto performed by Mr Hughes as (dtrk to the Burial Board, .vhich authority had been dissolved since last September. Fairly speak- ing, Mr Hughes was entitled to compensation, having held that office so long. He. however. made no claim for compensation and readily acquiesced in payment ^easing when the work ceased. There might be a small inorease in the salary, hut it was more of a re-adjustment, as hitherto Mr Hughes was paid partly by salary aod partly by payments for additional work. It must now be more satisfactory to find the duties defined and no future extra payments except such as were defined. Having regard to the duties, he thought the Committee recommended a reasonable salary. Though in one respect the Town Clerk would not benefit much, in other respect he would benefit by not having to make bills for additional work. He moved the adoption of the report. Mr R. J. JONES seconded the proposition. Mr ISAAC HOPKINS thought the Committee was appointed to increase the Town Clerk's salary and from what he gathered from Mr Williams's remarks there had been no increase at all. Mr C. M. WILLIAMS said he did not say that at all. Not a very great increase. There was a slight increase. Mr ISAAC HOPKINS said if the Committee were appointed to look into the increase of salary they ought to make something respectable- (laughter)—gentlemanly like—(renewed laughter) —and not a few pounds. Could they not propose round figures, siy £2oo? For his part he liked to pay every man honourably for bis work and if he could get a s. c inder, he would propose f200 or Mr MARKS said h" should have pleasure in seconding that. If they wanted a professional mall to do his work properly they must make him feel that his time was not robbed from more important and remunerative work. Having regard to the duties which had been set down the salary proposed at the end gave the whole thing away. It was not much more than would be paid to a skilled clerk and he thought the silary should undoubtedly be 200 guineas per annum Captan DOUGHTON said aftet Mr Williams's ex- planation, he was going to get up and propose the same thing, but Mr Hopkins had been too sharp for him. (Laughter.) The diff-rence bet" en the pievinus salary and the proposal was about JE15 merely. The MAYOR asked Mr Hopkins what his proposi- tion was and Mr Hopkins adopted Mr Marks's two hundred guineas. Me C. M. WILLIAMS said the Committee bad considered the matter fully and were equally anxious to pay honourably as the proposer and seconder of the amendment. The Committee con, sidered £180 very fair salary, having regard to the work and to the returns from other towns. In some of those towns the Town Clerk had to p'r- form all other legal work-p<irlra.mentary ano other work. In addition, the Committee were care- ful to arrive at a figure which would be acceptable to the Council and to the town. The ratepayers were very keen in 1" gIrd to increase of salaries. They scanned everything and went very carefully into things and the Council ought to have regard to that. If further duties were added to the Tow Clerk, no doubt the Committee would be glad to consider a further increase. Having had a coa- ver-ation with Mr Hughes, he must say that as chairman of the Committe he must adhere tj the report. The TOWN CLERK asked to be allowed to say on" w< rd. He felt the delicucy of the position. On the one hand he felt exceedingly grateful to the gentlemen who supported the amendment, but if he mighi; b. allowed to have the matttr entrusted to him he would very much prefer, unless it was the unanimous opinion of the Council to the con- trary, to ac-ept the recommendatiou of the Finance Committee who, he knew, had paid careful atten- tion to the matter and had c rtainly devoted much time and great pains in arriving at what thsy con- sidered a propr figure. They were better able to jilrJgo tlun those who had not gone into the matter. He cheerfully and accepted the recom- mendation aod respectfully asked the gen th men not to pres- the amendment. Mr MARKS said he should not like to go to a division over the mat er but he felt as a profes- sional man that, they should not underpay another professional man so that when he had to perform his duties he chafed under the remuneration paid for those duties. Mr Hughes had been in office nineteen years and he (Mr Marks) would not think of giving a clerk after three years' faithful service Mr C. M WILLIAMS said the real increase would The MAYOR said the Committee went verv care- fully into that matter and everyone of them were anxious and very ready to"acknowledge Mr Hughes's and the way he performed his du ies since he "had been t clerk. As mayor that yea" as well as on a former occasion he had every reason to acknowledge Mr Kughes's great kindness and great assistance. (Hear, hear.) Taking that vipw of it, the Council might be sure the Committee were very anxious to acknowledge Mr Hughes's services in the way of salary to the greatest extent. The Committee felt that £180 was a reasonable salary at the present time and he trusted that the Council would accept the recommendation of the Committee. Of course it would be possible to re- consider the matter in future; but at PI esent he thought it better to have a unanimous vote rather than a division in a matter of that kind. Mr R. J. JONES concurred and said he believed the present proposal would meet with the approval of the ratepayers wheu a larger increase might be disapproved. Mr Hughes had devoted a great deal of his time to receptions and to their organisation and in that rf spect, to say nothing of other respects, was a model town clerk. He was always compet- ent and n a ly to carry out his duties. As a mem- ber of the Committee who made the recommenda- tion his mou h was shut, but he felt that they were not giving Mr Hughes any great increase. As, however, Mr Hughes was prepared to accept the present proposal in a generous manner, per- haps in the future the Council might consider an application for a further advance. Captain DOUGHTON said he felt strongly that a great deal of the work for which Mr Hughes formrrly received extra was now included in his duties, and he did not believe £180 covered what he got before. If Mr Hughes had been silent, it would have been better. (Laughter.) But the vote would not be unanimous, for he (Captain Doughton) would vote in favour of a larger increase. Mr ISAAC HOPKINS said he could not withdraw his amendment, and it could not be withdrawn without his consent. Mr MARKS, on being asked by the Mayor if he withdrew from seconding the amendment, said he did not wish the matter to go to a division. Captain DOUGHTON then said he would second Mr Isaac Hopkins's amendment that the saliry should be 200 guineas instead of £180. Mr SALMON said that seeing the majority of the Council were not quite satisfied with the recom- mendation of the Committee, would it oot be well to refer the matter back again to the Committee to make a further increase which would meet with the unanimous approval of the Council If it went to a vote, he should think that 200 guineas was really a small salary for a town clerk, taking into consideration the duties and the way Mr Hughes had discharged them for the past nineteen pears. The work had increased three or four times siuce Mr Hughes was appointed. The MAYOR then said he would put Mr Hopkins's amendment. The TOWN CLERK again appealed to Mr Isaac Hopkins and Captain Doughton to withdraw the imendment, observing that he was very thankful but it wou'd be very distasteful to have an j,m°ndment. Mr Hopkins and Captain Doughton Etill declin- ing, the MAYOR put the amendment when the pro- poser and seconder alone voted for it and the report recommending £180 was adopted. THE FIRE BRIGADE. Mr T. E Salmon brought up the report of the Fire Brigade Committee at which there were pre- ient-Messrs D. C. Roberts, David Roberts, R, J. lones, and himself, other members being conspicu- >us by their absence. The Committee recommended ;hat the Chief Constable should be asked to accept he captaincy and undertake the formation of a lew brigade. The Committee also recommended the payment of a sum of £1 4s for the services of møn at, the Mill-street fire. In moving the adop- tion of the report, Mr SALMON said the Committee were of opinion tkat no better man for the captaincy could be found than Chief Constable Howell Evaus. They all knew his qualifications and ability, The proposition having been seconded, was agreed to unanimously. Mr C. M. WILLIAMS said that three or four members of the former brigade rendered very good service indeed. There was no payment proposed to be made to them and he believed that they felt a liltle grievance in consequence. It would, he thought, be a gracious thing on the part of the Committee to recommend a small payment on the basis of that paid to the other men. Mr SALMON replied that if Mr Williams noticed the report in the papers he would see the reason why payment was not recommended to other men. Not only did the firemen assist, but some fifty or sixty others rendered service and it would be in- vidious to pick out anybody for payment when all did so well. Mr Rees Jones was asked if he could submit names for the purpose of payment, but he said it would be impossible to do justice by naming a few and not others and that was the reason why payment was not recommended to two or three others. In that Committee meeting the Com- mittee accorded their thanks to all those who liai rendered assistance. Mr C. M. ILLIAMS added that having regard that a vote of thanks was accorded to the three men, he was prepared to move that they should be paid. Mr REES JONES, on being ask .d by Mr Williams, said t at three names had been mentioned by some and four by others of the old Brigade, and some names had been mentioned to him of men he did not see engaged at the fire. He noticed some of the old Brigade hard at work as well as others. Mr R. J. JONES said a large number of the general public rendered assistance but ther were the names of three men specially mentioned because of their connection with the former Brigade. The Committee was pleased to Had that there was that feeling amongst those men who rendered assistance and moved a cordial vote of thanks to them. Captain DOUGHTO-I remember seeing those men right enough. As Mr Salmon said we ought to see by the report in the papers, we cannot rely upon the report in the papers. Take the Cambrian News itself where was the report that was passed by this Council of that vote of censure on the proprietor ? The MAYOR—Order, order. Captiin DOUGHTON That was not reported. The MAYOK—Captain Doughton, we are discus- sing the question of the Fire Brigade Committee's report and we cannot go into that now. Captain DOUGRTCIN-I only wish to explain that we cannot rely upon the reports in the local papers. The MAYOR-But you cannot go into that now. Captain DoUGIITON-lt may not suit you The MAYOR—W e are discussing another matter entirely and we cannot go into any foreign matter. Captain DOUGIITON -Perhaps Mr Mayor does not like it; but I am right. The MAYOR—But we cannot go into it now AS it is entirely out of order Mr C. M. W ILLIAMS moved an amendment that the three former in. mbers of the Fire Brigade should be paid. They said it was a prejudice against them and wilfully kept back. Mr R J. JONEs-I am surprised. Mr SALMON said the Committee recognized the work done by the three members of the old Brigade and would re-consider the payment of the men, but excellent services were rendered by the cleanrrs engaged by the railway companies They took tneir torches to the fire and worked hard. He did not wish to say what the members of the o!d Brigade did there. He was among the first to arrive at the fire and he knew what they did but there were others entitled to payment if they were. Mr J. P. THOMAS seconded Mr Williams's amend- ment, bul- the MAYOR aid the amendment was not necessary as the Committee would re-c insider the matter and the discussion ceased, Mr R. J. JONES remarkmg that no doubt the railway men worked very hard on that occasion. LEASES. On the proposition of Mr R. J. JONES, seconded by Mr C. M. WILLIAMS the applications of Mr J G. Rowe of 65, North-parade, and of Mr David Lloyd of 67, North-pa-ade, were referred to the Finance Committee. A COMMUNICATION. Mr SALMON asked what had becom- of a letter sent in by the Gas Company and the MAYOR and Mr C. M. W ILLIAMS said it would be considered by the Finance Committee. SEWER EXTENSION. Mr R. J. JONES moved that a committee of the whole Council be held at the harbour at the ear'iest possible date to consider and report upon what steps should be taken with a view to the extension of the main sewer." Mr Jones added that he had purposely avoided in preparing that proposiiion anything that in any way would create a discussion and he did not wiih to comment upon it. Mr ISAAC HOPKINS seconded the proposition, re marking that in April,. 1892, he was the proposer and the Mayor was the seconder of a lvsolut oo and he should like to know from the To-n Cl-rk or the Surveyor what steps hid been taken to remedy the sewer from 1892 until the present time ? The Council had been sleeping about the beÅd of the sewer and did not do anything. Mr R. J. J O E- You will make them sleep again if you di cu-s it to-day. Mr C M. \A ILLIAMS said that notwithstanding all the delay Mr Hopkins suggested, he was looking exceedingly well although he li-ed close by. aptin DOUGHTON said in December, 1897, that matter was gone into aod three schemes brought forward and the Works Committee decided that ,he Surveyor should bring in a plan and estimate. Perhaps the Surveyor would say if those instruc- tions were carried out. If so, he (Captain Dough- ton) did not see there was any n ed ut discussion at the present time. The SURVEYOR said he knew that the Committee met and went into the matter thoroughly and in- structions were given to do certain work which w. re carried out. The proposition was then agreed to and it wa? decided to meet at the harbour at 2-30 on Saturday afternoon. Mr HOPKINS said if the Council did net take the matter iu hand he would write to the proper quart, r but Mr WILLIAMS reminded Mr Hopkins that he had already done that. ONE PLACE OUT OF MANY. Mr SALMON called att-ntion to the dilapidated footpaths in Cambrian-street. He added that he k-new Cambrian-street was one of the places in- eluded iri the list of streets for which a paving loan was to be obtained, but as the pavement was full of holes, which became pools in wet weather, the Sur- veyor might do temporary repairs. The SURVEYOR admitted that a little improve- ment could be effrcted and Mr C. M. WILLIAMS said that Queen-street also required attention. IN COMMITTEE. The Council then resolved itself into committee when among other matters considered was the question of the boundary between the Corporation property and th* Penglaise Estate at the end of the Terrace. The Town Clerk reported that Mr Hall yf Piynlymon House had taken a lease of the fore- 4iore from the end of Victoria-terrace and Craig- laise point and from the debris down to high water mark, which property Speared to bo wholly outside the boundary of the Corporation property. A member of the Council enquired whether the carting of debris by Councillor John Jenkins had ceased asrecfoiredbyresolutionof theCouncil andthe kSurveyor, on being aske4> repkad that carting was being continued up to the previous day. The Committee then unanimously resolved to instruct the Town Clerk to take all necessary proceedings to prevent a continuance of the carting and the Surveyor was directed to erect a barrier across the private road at the back of the Hostel. The members then went back into open Council when t 'e report of the Committee was unanimously adopted. MR H PKINS'S LEASE The following letter was read from Mr Hugh Hughes, solicitor, on behalf of Mr Isaac Hopkins -11 4th July. Dear sir,—Referring to my letter of the 13tn ultimo, on behalf of Mr Isaac Hopkins of South-road, I am instructed by him to state that as the site agreed to be leased to the late Mr Belham is to be sold by public auction, he is pro- pared to withdraw all claims against the Town Council on condition that the Council grant him forthwith a renewal of the lease of his two houses in South-road on the terms quoted in 1895. My client is influenced in withdrawing his claim by reason only of the public position that he occupies and I have no hesitation whatever in stating that if he is compelled to take proceedings he has a very substantial claim against the Corporation for damages." The letter was referred to the Finance Com- mittee and the Council rose about one o'clock. PETTY SESSIONS, WEDNESDAY, JULY 5TH.— Before D. C. Roberts, mayor, Thomas Griffiths, R. J. Jones, John Lewis, Isaac Hopkins, and C. M. Williams, Esqrs. Withdrawn.—A case against John Jones, carrier, Bridge-street, for an alleged assault on the infant daughter of Elizabeth Davies, widow, 5, Blue Gardens, on the 21st June, was withdrawn. The, Fountain Licensing Case.—J. G. P. Wemyss, Fountain Inn, Trefechan, was charged by Chief Constable Howell Evans wich having sold intoxi- cating liquor at the Fount: in on Sunday, June I I th, and also with having opened his licensed premises for the sale of intoxicating liquor on the same date. Mr Howell Evans, the chief constable, appeared on behalf of the prcsecution and Mr A. J. Hughes for the defence. -The case had been adjourned from the previous Court for the production of witnesses. All w tnesses were ordered out of Cotirt.-P.C. Jomes was the first witness. He said he went through the front door of the premises he was on,^ having had the key from his superior officer. He was there from six until nine. Mentioned all the people he saw except Mr Roberts's ostler and John Lewis's daughter who was back and fore. Lovell was not stopping in the road at all, but was walk- ¡ ing towards the railway bridge. He came out from the court and walked along the street. He was walking continuously from the place where the bottle tell. It was only forty or fifty yards and only about a minute and a half to two minutes elapsed between the breaking of the bottle and accosting Lovell. Did not search Lovell nor did his fellow officer. Had lost the pieces of bottle since the last Court between the court and the Police Station. There were six pieces of a bottle. Did not pick. up the cork did not look for it. Did not say that it smelled of whiskey, but Lovell admitted that the bottle contained whiskey and that he had it on the previous night. Saw the bottle break and picked up the pieces in going back with Lovell. It was broken in pieced on the pebbled yard. Did not speak to the man named Thomas. At twenty minutes he turned towards the back door which witness could not see. Did not know that he went to the back door or that the door was open and made no charge on him or anybody He simply reported facts to the Constable. Had no- thing more to say of Lewis except that he turned towards the back door and remained there about two minutes, when he crossed in the direction of Mr Robert's stables. Did not see him do anything wrong. William Lewis Jones also crossed over from the direction of the back door towards Lewis. The men were disbanded militiamen and the sum- monses were taken out alter they had gone. Had not taken the trouble to see the men about the matter. Did not see the neck of the bottle with a cork in produced because it was not there. Was carrying a big book for the auditor at the last Court and he supposed that was how he lost the pieces of the bottle from his pocket.—By the Mayor It was a similar buttle tc that produced.— By the Chief Constable Did not see anyone p ck up the pieces of the bottle. Before he and his fellow constable moved after the transaction be- tween them Mrs Wemyss wentbick out of sIght and Lovell went up the court. Saw Lewis Jones bring out the bottle and handed it to Lovell who ■ ook out the cork and handed it to Lewis. P. C. Thomas Rowlands was called and corroborated the evidence of P.C. Jones (which was read out to him) in every particular.—In cross-examination, witness said that John Lewis went towards the back door, remained there two or three minutes, and then crossed over to the stables. Went to Lovell immediately after the bottle fell. Did not know Wells, a militiaman. There were several militiamen lodg- ing at the Fountain. Told defendant that Jones brought out one bottle and at nine Mrs Wemyss br :ught out another bottle to Lovell, which fell and smashed as he was putting it into his pocket. P.C. Jones pointed out the wee spot on the ground Was cooped up from six to nine in the warehouse at that particularly troublesome time of the year. He did not hear the Chief Constable say that he would do a'l he conld to assist publicans of the town on whom militiamen were billeted. Did not know that Mrs WTemyss was looking about for a policeman that morning because she was annoyed by militiamen asking for drink. Did not see John Lewis do anything wrong, and neither defendant nor his wife were present when John Lewis Jones, a lodger, gave drink to LovelL-By the Chief Con- stable Publicans were not ordered to billet militia- men on Saturday night, the bngade having been dis- banded on Saturday at noon Mrs Wemyss did not complain of annoyanc Lovell said in Mrs Wemyss's presence he had the bottle of whisky since the pre- vious night. Mrs Wemyss said she had not seen the man that morning and Lovell then said the bottle he had was what he had the previous night.—By Mr Hughes There was no opportunity for conversation between Lovell and Mrs Wemyss betweea the detection and the conversation.—By the Mayor: Lovell said he had not seen Mrs Wemyss that morning but witness saw him speak ti Mrs Wemyss thai morning.—This being the case for the polic Mr Hughes called John Lewis who has a daughter living in Fountain-court. About a quarter to eight went to the back of the Fountain and thence to Mr Roberta's stable. Went strâght to the stable from his daughter's house without stopping anywhere aud remained there about a quarter of an hour. Did not see a living soul excepting Owen. He went to the stable for a brush.—John David Lewis, son of last witness, and living at Trefechan, said he wa on the doorstep of his own house and could see as far as Pickering's shop. About ten minutes to a quarter pist eight and looking town wards saw Lovell near the new Tre- fechan Chapel, walking towards the railway bridge. He stopped in the middle of the street opposite fountain court. He was in witness's sight the whole time. He stopped two or three minutes standing a10ne; saw no policeman. After stopping went on as far as Mary Parry's house, the Beehive, where he met the officers. Lovell was in his sight the whole time and did not go into Fountain-court at all. The policemen could not see witness at that time. They took Lovell into the court and he followed.—By Mr Hopkins The police came from the direction of the railway bridge.—Mr R. J. Jones But that is a very different way com- ing from the warehouse.—Mr Hughes said the officers get out another way than by Foun- tain-cmrt into Trefechan.—Mr Hopkina In that ca e they would have to go through Mr Roberts's two yards.—The Chief Constable said he would recall the officers to s ow how they <?oton',—- Witness, continuing his evidence, said he did not the officers come out of the warehouse.—By the Chid Constable He saw tbem coming down from the direction of Penparke. Did not know that Lovell came out of a lodging-house. It was about eight. If the constables said it was about nine they would be wrong. Had not b en talking to Wemyss about the case, but was always at the Fountain. Was there on the previous night playing dominoes. —The Chief Constable: For what? For beer?— Mr Hughes What a shame, trying to get a man in like that. It is prejudice.—The Chief Con- stable I have no feeling.—Mr Hughes Don't tell me you have no feeling.—In reply to Mr Hughes, witness said he had not been talking to WTemyss about the case.—John Lovell, umbrella repairer, Carmarthen, who had been subpojuaed from Llan- idloes, said he slept at Mrs Parry's premises on the Bridge End side of the bridge on Saturday night. —The Mayor said he wanted to know where witness slept.—Witness On the right.—Mr C. M. Williams: What premises are there? Is there a house ?—Witness No. She keeps cattle and all there.—The Mayor: Stables? — Witness: Yes.— Mr Hopkins Cowshed ?—Witness No people living in the lowest room.—In further reply to Mr Hughes, witness said he had no money and he asked Mrs Parry if he might doss there and she said Yes, and welcome." He had lost a basket of tools the previous night and between eight and nine walked towards John Lewis's house and went back and knocked at the front door of the Fountain. He asked Mrs Wemyss if he had left the basket of tools there. Did not stay there a minute- not a second. Did not ask for nor get a drink. Had not a farthing. Went from the Fountain to Dawson's house and afterwards came back and stood on the road opposite the Fountain door on the right-hand side. The two officers came there and copped him, one at each shoulder, and asked him to go back to the Fountain. They asked him if he had had anything and he said he had nothing to get anything with. They hunted his pock ts. That gentleman, P.C. Jones, did. Mrs Wemyss came and the officers asked her if she had given any intox'cating drink.—The Mayor, fearing it might be forgotten, asked from what direction did the police c me and witness said they came from the direction of the railway bridge.—P.C. Jones (continued witness) asked Mrs Wemyss if she had sold any liquor and Mrs Wemyss said "No." He then asked to see Mr Wemyss, wno was in bed, and both Mr and Mrs Wemyss denied supplying any drink. He had not been at the back door nor in the court that morning. It was not true that he had drink that morning from John Lewis and afterward got a bottle from Mrs Wemys-, but did not get the drink as the bottle broke. He had not a single farthing. He did not say that he had a bottle of whisky the night before from the Foun- tain.—In cross examination, the Chief Constable asked witness if he had a house at Carmarthen when witness said his father and mother had a house in Water-street and he was born and bred there. On being asked what number of Water- street, witness said it was on the Conwyl-road when the Chief Constable said that was out: of Car- marthen, adding, "You know that you and I know each other very well." — Mr Hughes protested and said he would not have it but the Chief Constable retorted that Mr Hughes would have to have it and a great del more when he asked further questions.—The Mayor said that, taking the view Mr Hughes took of the remark, it was not a right remark to make, whereupon the Chief Constable said he meant no harm, which admission Mr Hughes accepted as a solatium.—In further cross- examination by the Chief Constable, witness admitted that he had been convicted twice for drunkenness in Cardiganshire and that there had been a bother about scissors, but it was not stealing. He had also been convicted at Lampeter for having assaulted the police. Could not say whether he had been fined for drunkenness and disorderly conduct; You knows." (Laughter )— The Chief Constable Verv well; we will agree. He went to John Lewis's, the old gentleman's, for a hat. Had not one and Lewis gave him one Had no drink there. Did not see John Lewis Jones, the militiaman. Remained on the road five or ten minutes to see if anybody could tell him about his basket. Ultimately found it at Dawson's. Got it and put the basket behind the hedge about 200 yards on Penparke road beyond the railway bridge.—The Chief Constable pointed out to the Bench that John Lewis said Lovell never went out of his sight, whereas Lovell said he Went beyond the bridge.—Witness, continuing, said he told the truth this time at any rate. (Laughter ) After he left the back of the Fountain, after the police had taken him there, he went for hia basket aud went on the road. He remained on the road near the Fountain five or ten minutes to see a friend of his-Johnny Price. He had a great many friends in the militia.—By Mr C. M. Williams It was a mistake for him to say at first that the basket had been taken to tne house near Mary Parry's.—Mr Hughes You were frightened a great deal by all these indictments, Now, to he quite candid, you had a drop too much the night before ?—Yes.—In fact, you were drunk the night before ?—Yes, sir. (Laughter).—The Mayor Order surely there is no fun in that to be laughed i about.—Mr Hughes was proceeding to ask witness what he did on the llth June when the Chief Con- stable contended that Mr Hughes could only reo examine on questions which had been put in cross- examination, whereupon Mr Hughes objected to in. terruption and said if it was continued he should object to the Chief Constable appearing as advocate in such cases as he was not entitled to do 80. If he was not treated in the way professional gentle- men were treated in cases, he should object to Mr Evans appearing.—The Chief Constable said he was prosecutor, but Mr Hughes said that did not entitle him to act as advocate. Continuing his questions to witness who had been indistinct as to where he went after he got his basket, witness explained that he found his basket at Dawson's, took it up the Penparke-road, came back, stood on the street near the Fountain five or ten minutes, was then taken to the back door by the police, and then returned for his basket, ultimately leaving Aberystwyth about ten o'clock and going "on tne road."—Mr Hughes: Are you absolutely certain that you never went into that court before the police took you there ?—I am sure ur I would not kiss the Book.—Although you have been convicted of being drunk, you claim to b6 be- lieved when you are on your oath ?—Yes, sure.— In furthur evidence, witness said his last conviction for drunkenness was in 1891 which Mr Hughes said was a long time back.—Mrs Wemyss was the next witness for the defence. She said she knew John Lewis well. On the Sunday he did not go to the Fountain nor did she supply him with drink. There were six lodgers on Sunday, four of whom were billeted. Thomas, a militiaman, came to the back door and asked for drink, but was refused, and becoming abusive she went to look for a policeman, but could find none. There were four men standing at the corner who accompanied Thomas. About half-past eight or nine saw Lovell at the front door. He asked for a basket of tools. She answered him and shut the door immediately.— Was it true that you were carrying a glass bottle and hanled it to Lovell, and that when trying to put it in his pocket it fell and broke.—Witness It is not true. It is false.—Did you go into the court either for that man or anybody else ?—No, I did not. I was in my own yard.—Did you give a bottle to anybody—either to Lovell or anybody else ?—No, I did not give a bottle to Lovell at all.— Were you with him or any man when a bottle fell down and smashed ?—No, I never saw a bottle fall down and smash.—Continuing her evidence, Airs Wemyss said that about eight to a quarter past before Lovell was there she saw the remains of a bottle on the court and asked a little girl of eleven, the granddaughter of John Lewis, who was playing with it to pick it up. After the policeman went there she collected the remains which made up a perfect bottle with the exception of the bottom. About nine, P.C. Jones asked Mr W emys how he accounted for Lovell having whisky, remarking that he must have had it there as there was a piece of the broken bottle. Mr Wemyss turned round and asked Lovell when he saw him last, and Lovell replied, last night. The officer then asked Lovell if he had anything there that day and said no, and Mr Wemyss turned round and asked her if she had supplied anything and she replied that she had not. P.C. Jones said, Well, Mrs Wemyss must know all about it or how do you account for this bottle ?" She asked where was the bottle and who broke it, and the officer replied that it was not for him to Bay. From start to finish neither officer told her they had ever seen her in the court with Lovell and that they had seen the bottle break. The officer said Lovell must have had the whisky in the Fountain, because there was a bit of the broken glass.—By Mr C. M. Williams There was no mark on the bottle produced.—By the Chief Constable None of the lodgers were present as witnesses nor was William Lewis Jones.—The Chief Constable Was Lovell supplied with any drink that morning ?—Mr Hughes: The Chief Constable is trying to commit this witness. Hav- ing regard to the way this case has been conducted, I shall advise Mrs Wemyss not to answer any question which might incriminate her.—The Chief Constable: My question is this. Did that man take any drinkables out of the house that morning ? —The Mayor (to witness) Now, wait a minute. (To Mr Hughes): Do you object?—Mr Hughes: Yes, I object.—The Chief Constable On what grounds do you object?—The Mayor: I do not think you can go into that.—Mr Hughes She claims the privilege and that is sufficient ground. I do not know what the answer would be, but as her solicitor I advise her not to answer aud she takes my advice.—The Chief Constable (to witness): Did you say anything about a man annoying you ?—Witness I had no time as they accused m of the other thing,—In reply to further questions, witness said that Lovell left the house about a quarter to eleven on Saturday night before P.S. Phillips came there. She supplied a lot of bsttles of whisky that night. Lovell was one of the gang and there were about four women who were camping outside and they had bottles of whisky and beer. She did not hear Lovell admit that he had a bottle of whisky .it a'l. She bolievetl Lovell was sober that morn- ing, but he was a very excitable man and she could not well telL-John George Patrick Wemyss corro- borated his wife's evidence.—Toe Mayor said he should like to ask the policemen how they got out and P.C. Jones, recalled, said they went nut by the front door. Lovell was then two or three yards above the door. They took Lovell to the back iloor of the Fountain and after coming back looked the door of the warehouse, he did not notice John David Lewis on his door- step.—With reference to the key being in the possession of the police, Mr Hughes said he had subpoenaed John Brenig Edwards and he was not present. If there was no objection he would ask Mr Wemyss a question on that point—Mr Wemyss said that Mr Edwards swore on his oath that the policemen were not there and if they were there they were there unlawfully. —The Mayor asked if it was fair that that should be stated there? Did Mr Hughes contend that the police were not in there?—Mr Hughes replied that it was no part of his evidence. —Mr R. J. Jones took it to be quite possible for the police to be there without the knowledge of Mr Edwards.—The Chief Constable said that after those remarks he insisted upon P.S. Phillips being called to say how he got that key.—Mr Hughes Well, don't put it in that way.—P.C. Jones (to Mr Hughes) In fairness to me, I hope he will be called.—Mr Hughes withdrawing his objection m fairness to P.C. Jones, P.S. Phillips was called who said he received the key on Saturday night, the 10th June, and subse- quently gave instructions to two constables to whom he handed the key. —The Chief Constable I do not know if you want to know where the Sergeant got the key ?—Mr Hughes Yes, if he makes-a statement like that.—Mr Wemyss said he had witnesses to prove what Mr Edwards told him. —P.S. Phillips added that he sent a constable to a certain quarter for the key. He received the key from him and knew it would open the door of tne warehouse. Tne men also received instruc- tions.—Mr R. J. Jones said there must have been duplicate keys or Mr Edwards must have been aware of it.—P.S. Phillips then wrote the name of the person from whom the key was obtained and Mr Hughes said he was satisfied with the informa- tion so supplied.—Mr Hughes then addressed the Bench, conteniing that it was not healthy that the Chief Constable should act as prosecutor and ad- vocate, for it induced an interest in a prosecution which should only be properly displayed by an advocate. The police were only human beings, and when they identified themselves with the prosecution in that way there was a danger of exaggeration. Commenting upon the evidence, he pointed out that the man who saw the thing from his doorstep as well as Lovell were disinterested persons, and contended that if the police had not lost their pieces of bottle it would have made up a complete bottle with the remains produced which Mrs Wemyss said was on the ground before Lovell came there. There was a man staying in the house at the time like Lovell whom the police might have mistaken for Lovell when looking through a dirty wicdow 30 or 40 yards off.—The Bench deliberated in private, and on the readmission of the public the Mayor said- The Bench have carefully considered the case that has been put before them and the majority have decided to dismiss it.