The Welsh Coast Pioneer and Review for North Cambria

Memories of Past Days. Notes. OLD WELSH LIBRARIES. The Library of the late Robert Jones, of Rotticrhithc, (Continued.) Phillips (T.), Cyfammod Eglwys, half calf, Caerfyrddin 1815 Jones (J. [Tegid]), Bedd Gwr Dwo, half calf, Llanymddyfri 1850 Aled (I. G.), Palcstina, half calf, Caer- dydd 1851 Aled (I. G.), Pryddestau Arobryn, half calf, Stalybridge 1852 Jones (H.), Saint y Dyddiau Diweddaf, half calf, Caernarfon 1852 Charles (T.), Hyfforddwr, half calf, Bala 1862 Thomas a Kempis, Ddilyniad Iesu Grist, gan II. 0., calf old style, Amwythig. n. d. Hafod Guide, plates, Hereford, 1799- Stratford-upon-Avon Guide, plate, Stratford, in 1 vol. n. d. Tomas (I.), Ymroddiad, calf gilt,Amwyth- ig 1765 Davies (J.), Flores Poetarum Britannicor- um (Llyfr Barddoniaeth), cloth, only 12 copies printed, Rotherhithc 1864 Edited and privately printed by Rev. Robert Jones for presents. Witts (I.), Catecismau, uncut 1741 Rees (H.), Cofiant M. l'arry, half calf, Dinbych 1856 Williams (0. P.), Hen Feirdd, half calf, Caernarfon, 1856-Bloclau'r Dyffryn, ib. 1862 (2) Williams (W.), Adgyfodiad, Llanrwst, 1851-Griffith (D.),Cyfryngdod Emman- uel, ib. 1833 Hu Gardn, gan Idrison, half calf extra. 1822 Le Brigant (M.), Detachemens de la Langue primitive, Paris, 1787-Autres Detachemens, ib. 1787, half calf in I vol. Barnes (W.), Notes on Ancient Britain and the Britons, 1858—.Motley (J.), Tales of the Cymry (in verse), Llanelly, 1848 —Sketches of Wales and the. Welsh, by Amy, Bristol, 1847 (3) Silvii (L.), Floras Anglicus, half mor- occo, Amst 1652 (To be COli t iIllW¡,)

| DESCENDANTS OF OWAIN BROGYNTYN. Margaret (heiress) = Piers Salisbury, of Bachym- byd, and Lleweni. ( An heiress=Peter Morris, Esq., of Hafod yMaidd Lloyd of Dolghesyn (which now belongs to Rev. — Hughes of Gwerclas. Humphrey (1681) Hughes 12th in descent from | Owain (his heiress)=Lloyd of Plyinog (see Burke). Descendants of Cadwgan. Nanneys (the heiress)=Wm. Van of Corsygedol. of Nannau. Lloyd of Cwrnbychan, Merioneth. The Rev. John Lloyd, of Caerwys, historian and genealogist, was a descendant of above. (See Angharad Lloyd and Pennant.) Owain Brogyntyn was a bastard son of Madog ab Meredydd ab Blcddyn by a daughter of Y Maer du," of Rug in Edcirnion. His father left him the lordship of Edeirnion, and a large property at Dimnael near Maerdy, Merioneth. Owain dwelt at "Brogyntyn," near Oswestry (now known as Porkington.) A descendant of the family, Lord Harlech, now owns the estate. The ruins of Brogyntyn are still to be seen. (" Cymru.") The Vaughans of Corsygedol are descended from Walter Fitz Otho, Castellau of Windsor (see Duke of Leinster's pedigree.) The Yales, Jones-Parry's of Llwyn Onn and Madryn, &c.. &c., are also from this stock. (Ibid.) (Walter Fitz Otho-Gladys dau. to Rhiwallon.)

Replies. | WHO WAS GWRGAXT ?-As 1. A. J.S reply to this query in your issue for the 9th instant was rather scant, if not unfair, perhaps you will not object to insert the following paragraph in your next, which I copy from Mr R. Williams, Newtown's Montgomeryshire Worthies." (Second edition, p. 165) :— "William Jones (Gwrgant) was born at Brwynog, in the parish of Llanfihangel, Mont., about January, 1803, and was the son of Robert Jones, a mason, and Margaret, his wife. His mother was a woman of high charac- ter and good abilities, to whom Gwrgant was indebted for his early education. In after life he and his brother, John Evans Jones, a suc- cessful builder at Preston, placed a handsome window in Llanfihangel Church to the memory of their mother. Having attended the village school at Llanfihangel for some time, and. after- wards that at Meifod, he found a situation in the office of Mr Evans, solicitor, Llanfair, and afterwards in that of Mr Thomas's at Llan- fyllin. Here he was articled, and in due course admitted a solicitor. From Llanfyllin he re- moved to St. Asaph, where he practised for some years, and. thence to London, where for many years he carried on extensive business. Mr Jones at an early age mastered the intrica- cies of the Welsh metres, and often wrote to the Welsh magazines of the day under the nom de plume of "Gwilym Brwynog." He was a zeal- ous and patriotic Welshman, and an excellent critic of Welsh poetry, but wrote comparatively little himself. He was one of the adjudicators at the Rhuddlan Eisteddfod. He published a work entitled "Gwreiddiau yr Iaith Gymraeg" ("The Roots of the Welsh Language"). Gwr- gant married a lady who owned some property at Greenwich, where he resided at the time of his death. He died in 1886." It may interest some of your readers to know that the Rev. Francis Jones, of Abergele, is distantly related to Gwrgant- a nephew of his on his mother's side. ONE WHO KNEW HIM. WELSH DOCTORS.—I would advise all interested in this subject to consult the exhaustive series of articles published some years ago by my friend Dr. P. Rhys Griffiths, on Early Welsh Medicine 11 in the now unhappily defunct Cymry Fu (Cardiff: Daniel Owen & Co.) Cardiff. ARTHUR MEE. WEATHER PROPHET OF HOLYHEAD.— During the early part of this century Welsh almanacs of great popularity were issued by one Robert Roberts, of Holy- head, and subsequently by his son. R. Roberts wrote also on astronomy and other subjects. A large number of the almanacs are housed at Cardiff Free Library, and appear in its wonderful catalogue of Welsh Books (is.), which should be in the hands of every. individual interested in the past of the Principality. I marvel much that this admirable work is not more widely known. Perhaps some other correspond- ent can give some particulars of the Roberts's family of Holyhead. They seem to have been remarkable people. Cardiff. ARTHUR MEE.

Queries. THE DR. PIERCE MONUMENT AT DEN- BIGH.—Please permit me to ask a question in your Past Days column concerning the Dr. Pierce Monument at Denbigh. I would like to know the circumstances of its erection, as I was informed recently that it was erected at the cost of the worthy doctor himself. Surely that could hardly be. A CLWIYDIAN. ISOLATED LLYSFAEN.—Now that there is so much interest evinced in the govern- ment of the parish of Llysfaen, it would be of considerable importance and useful- ness to know how the parish, though completely cut off from the main portion of Carnarvonshire, and wholly bounded by Denbighshire parishes, still should be considered as a part of the former county. There are one or two similar cases of isolated parishes being attached to distant counties, and I would ask how such anomalies can be explained ? B.A. ROEWEN.—Can any reader help me with a good and reasonable definition of Roewen. Might it be Yr Ywen ? CYMRO.

Correspondence. [We do not necessarily identify ourselves with the opinions of our correspondents. SIR,-I think the statement of Mr R. Booth, hon. secretary Patriotic Fund, at the Colwyn Bay St. David's Day dinner, that the telegram received by him was the first that had ever come to Colwyn Bay from the Queen," was somewhat rash and quite that of a young man in a hurry," as I have one I received from the Queen, and also one from the Prince of Wales. Enquire within. WM. VANABLES WILLIAMS. Llandrillo Vicarage, March 13th, 1000.

Prestatyn Light Railway. MR EDITOR,—Allow me a place to explain my position as regards the petition drawn by Mr J. Pierce-Lewis, Rhyl. I should like to say that I am surprised at the mis- constructionut on my remarks at the public meeting held at the British School on the 2nd inst., and do not for a moment doubt but what it was duly explained. Thanking you for trespassing on your space.—Yours truly, J. E. JONES.

Rhos Trillo and Rhos-on-Sea Controversy. SIR,I would be obliged for a little space in your paper, which I do not wish to occupy unnecessary or to no purpose. Being a householder and property owner, and contributing a share towards rates and taxes, I desire to express my regret that the inconvenience recorded has not been avoided, as it seems hard to saddle a whole district with the conse- quent action of a few. I am not dependent on visitors, but my sympathy is none the less sincere with those that do, and certainly no one would withhold their sympathy from the lady in question, which instance is not by any means to the credit of the place. My vote was sought and given at the election to one who, I think, took a some- what narrow view of this matter. I do not desire to believe that he is in any way responsible that Rhos Trillo," which was petitioned for and decided to be placed on the finger-post (and which would have put an end to the matter) has never been done. I believe this rests more with the High- way Committee, and if they are not proceeding with it, I feel entitled to ask, through your columns, if the chairman of the Highway Committee will kindly state why ? But if they are proceeding with it, I don't want to make any unnecessary reference about this delay, providing some- thing is done at once to recognise the claims of petitioners and to avoid a similar occurrence. VOTER. P.S.—Petitioners have sufficient intelli- gence to vote, and they should be credited with sufficient intelligence to present a petition.

The Colwyn Octopus and Llysfaen. SIR,-As a ratepayer I appeal to the rate- payers of Llysfaen generally, whether it is not time for us to consider our position respecting the governing authorities of the parish. From the signs of our times, our parish councillors seem to be particularly awake, from what we understand having counselled in committee, and in view of some reasons-may be, better known to themselves—recommend, and in due course applied for, extension of powers and formation of an Urban District Coun- cil. In reading the report of the inquiry, last week, we draw the natural conclusion that the reasons submitted for the con- sideration of the committee of inquiry were those assumed by our Parish Council, whereby the parish in general should benefit by the proposed change. Taking a comprehensive view of the evidence submitted by the chairman, the pro- Colwynites, and other non-ratepayers, all seems to come under two heads. First,—As to the control of the water mains. Whatever the opinion is respec- ting the 9in. main laid down—we are not to assume, I suppose, this is to be taken t up again and replaced by the 4m pipe ?— of which such bitter complaints are made, is it not a singular coincidence that the very gentleman who complains most-or at all events, who rides the grumbling horse—was our then representative on the Cowlyd Board, viz., Mr Robert Evans ? But whatever the opinion is regarding this expenditure, how does it interest us at Llysfaen, be it gin or 4in pipe ? I certainly can't see, only that we have to pay for it. And why saddle us at Llysfaen with such wanton costs ? Is it not the long and short about it that it is only the grumbling portion of the parish at Colwyn that solely benefits by the same ? The other point submitted was, as to the control of the pigstyes. Are we to be saddled with the expense of keeping a staff of officers and the whole parapher- nalia, simply to look after our pigstyes ? Gossip has it that the exalted position of chairman, and the complete satellites of officers are, if not actually, at all events, practically appointed, and with regard to which we may safely assume No Llys- faenites need apply." May be, J.P.'s are more required at Colwyn to cope with the wave of discontent whic'i seems to sweep over the place at the present time. In considering the position of our affairs respecting the Colwynites v. Llys- faen, at whose expense are all the urban luxuries extended to this portion of the district (Colwyn) ? Is it not a fact that £ 3,100 is already spent for the sole benefit of that portion only. As to the expenditure on sewers and water-mains—the sewers are exten- ded to their doors, water pipes to the houses-for domestic purposes and sani- tary connections. These ashpits are regularly emptied, the streets are lighted, watered, and kept clean. Compare this with our position at Llysfaen While, of course, we are saddled as to rates to identically the same amount, and benefit- ing not in the least by the high rates we pay. Rumour has it that another authority —the School Board—claims also another £ 100 from us for the education of the children from that portion who are attend- ing the school at Colwyn; also the Colwyn Bay Council again ask for another £ 120 for the use of the waterpipes conveying water to the position in question of the district. I doubt if we shall not be brought to disaster by-and-by, if we are not on the j alert. One of the Parish Councillors gives it me as his opinion that while soon we shall be called upon to pay C, oo to £600 5 ;tz annually, to defray the expenses in main- tenance of the portion of Colwyn. We actually receive in rates only about £ 150 towards the same. The remainder of the £ 350 to £ 45° we as workmen living in Llysfaen have to contribute in extending these full luxuries to the benefit of others solely. I appeal to you all-as ratepayers inter- ested in the welfare of our parish-whether it is not time for us to muster our forces, j and strike once for all at the root of this evil and humbug. Cymry, safwn dros ein hiawnderau, yr wyf yn gymaint Rhyddfrydwr a neb yn y plwyf ond yr wyf yn protestio yn erbyn trahawsder cywilyddus dynion sydd yn sugno ein gwaed fel gweithwyr yn y dull t yma. RATEPAYER.

• St. Asaph. Presentation to Colonel Howard. On Friday, at the National Schools, St. Asaph, Col. H. R. LI. Howard, the commander of the Welsh Battalion of the Imperial Yeomanry, was presented by Dr. Easterby, on behalf of a large number of subscribers, with a carbine and a handsomely illuminated address, which ran as follows :— To Henry Richard Lloyd Hcnvard, of Wygfair, of the gth Imperial Yeomanry Battalion, bound for South Africa. Dear Sir,—We, the citizens and parishioners of the ancient parish of St. Asaph, venture to present to you this carbine and address as a small token of our appreciation of the patriotic action that you have taken in your voluntary and spontaneous offer to take a prominent part in defence of Her Majesty's honour and dominions. In our consideration of this action, we cannot forget that in your past military career you have shown that spirit of the pristine valour for which the British nation is justly and honourably famed and from that knowledge we can form a certain and infallible augury for the success of your future command. Still further, whilst we can confidently congratulate our fellow-countrymen in having the honour of being commanded by you, we can also assure them that in their commander they have a true and loyal Soldier of the Queen." But despite these pleasing auguries, and despite these expres- sions of unfaltering confidence we cannot but ex- press the fervent hope that your ancient house may remain "Semper Integra atquc semper indivsa1 and that you will uphold the honour and the glory of the British flag in its every warp and woof, and that you will return victorious, and safe and sound, to your own loved vale and to our ancient city. God Save the Queen.' We are, on behalf of the citizens and parish- ioners of St. Asaph, W. EASTERBY, Chairman of the Parish Council. H. A. CLEAVER, Hon. Treasurer. ROBT. JONES, Hon. Secretary.

Sir Charles Hall, Recorder of London and member for the Holborn division of Finsbury, died on Tuesday.

Educational. ART CLASSES. ———— 63 I MISS HOLMES, Certificated Art Mistress, South Kensington; r,, xhibitor at Manchester, Liverpool, Southport, &c. Member of the Qivynecld Ladies' Art Society, Conway it Instructress to the Technical Classes, Coiwyn Bay. RECEIVES PUPILS for instruction in Drawing, Shading, Painting in Oils and Water Colour from Models, Casts and Natural Objects; Sketching from Nature, Modelling and Design. Class Days: Wednesdays and Saturdays. Special arrangements made for private lessons and for visitors. Studio, Bank Chambers, Abergele Rd., Colwyn Bay. VIOLIN LESSONS. Mr. W. CLAXTON, Solo Violinist and Teacher, AND Miss CLAXTON, from the Conservatoire, Brussels, VISITS COLWYN BAY EVERY TUESDAY and FRIDAY. Visits Lianrwst, Trefriw and Bangor. FOB TERMS APPLY TO CLAXTON'S MUSIC DEPOT, LLANDUDNO. 49 Mr. J. W. P. ARROWSMITH, A.Mus., L.C.M., A.T.S.C. (PENCERDD MANCUNIUM), Professor of Music. ORGANIST OF ALL SAINTS' CHURCH, DEGANWY. Gives Lessons in Singing, Harmony, Plano,Organ,&c. Successful Preparation for all Music Examinations. For terms, apply VALE VIEW TERRACE, LLANDUDNO JUNCTION; or Mr. A. J. FLEET, Music Warehouse, COLWYN BAY. 870 CONWAY COLLEGE, NORTH WALES. Headmaster: T. C. E. DANIELS, M.A., Assisted by experienced University Tutors. Boys prepared for the University Local Examinations, College of Preceptors, &c. BOYS ARE ADMITTED FROM SEVEN YEARS OF AGE. Classes are small, and each Boy receives much individual attention. SPECIAL ATTENTION IS PAID TO THE PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE BOYS. 773 VIOLIN. PIANOFORTE. VOICE PRODUCTION. Mr. W. DAVIES, Professor of Music, Prepares pupils in any of the above subjects for Profession, or (if necessary) for Degrees or Diplomas, at all the Musical Colleges and Universities. FIRST-CLASS TUITION. LESSONS IN HARMONY ALSO GIVEN. COLWYN BAY, on SATURDAYS, at Mr. Fleet's Music Warehouse. Terms Moderate; and to be obtained personally, or by letter, at Mr. Fleet's; or at Hafod, Deganwy. Send for W. Davies' latest and most popular Song, The Angel's Answer," in keys to suit all voices, post free 1/6*. 726 Miss MALDWYN PRICE, I.S.M., R.A.M (CERT.), gives Lessons in Voice Production, Solo Singing, Piano, & Theory, every Thursday, at Mr. Fleet's Music Warehouse, Abergele Road, Colwyn Bay; and daily at Trewen Woodlands, Conway. 705 VIOLIN LESSONS. MISS ISABEL HEWITT GIVES LESSONS IN COLWYN BAY AND NEIGHBOURHOOD. Bodafon, Bangor. 637 PENMAENiMAWE(GWYNFA)! Girls' Boarding & Day School. PREPARATORY CLASS FOR BOYS. HALF TERM, FEBRUARY 26TH. PRINCIPAL MRS. H. II. MELLOR. 1026 PREPARATORY SCHOOL For GIRLS and BOYS, from age of 4. CHILDREN RECEIVED for the HOLIDAYS Careful Grounding. Gloucester House, Hawarden Rd., Colwyn Bay A. J. FLEET, MUSIC WAREHOUSE, COLWYN BAY. Pianos, Organs, Harmoniums For Sale or on Hire. First-class Tuning and Repairing. Tuner to the Pier Pavilion and Biviere's Hall, Llandudno. VIOLINS. STBIITOB of finest quality. Good IRON-FRAMED PIANOS from £16 new. II EARLY POTATOES.—The farmers in the co. Dublin, who depend greatly upon the early potato market, are. very hard at work, taking every opportunity of getting in this important crop. The land on the sea-coast of North Dublin is admirably adapted for raising pota- toes for the early Dublin market. They always manage to have the ground all ready to start planting the first chance that can be got.