Welsh Gazette and West Wales Advertiser

The Cardiganshire Militia. RIOT AT MILFORD HAVEN. A serious affray took place on Saturday night at Milford Haven between the local police and a number of men belonging to the Cardiganshire Artillery Militia, now stationed for the annual training at South Hook. The disturbance com- menced at half-past nine at the Hearts of Oak Inn. Hakin. It transpires that a row took place inside amongst some of the Militia, who numbered about 60 in all, and the landlord (Mr. Thomas Hitch- ings) sought the services of Police-constables Lewis (29) and Llewellyn (43) to eject the principal in- truders. On entering the house the police asked the men to leave quietly. The men, however forthwith turned on the two constables, and; attacked them with their belts, striking out right and left, and in the scuffle Constable Lewis received a nasty kick in the face and had his lip cut through, while Llewellyn was kicked in the abdomen and otherwise maltreated. Further police aid was summoned, and Sergeant Brinn, with two more constables Nicholas and Warlow were soon on the spot, but in the meantime the Milita had increased considerably in number, hot h inside and outside the premises. Those outside presented a hostile attitude, and, no doubt, en- couraged by their increasing strength, made another attack on the police in the street. P.C., Nicholas receiving a serious kick in the groin, had his watch broken and his uniform torn. On reach- ing Spike's-lane stones and bricks were thrown at the police and civilians, several men being struck, including Police-sergeant Brinn, but, fortunately, all marvellously escaped serious injury. For a whole hour the Militia held posession of the thoroughfare and business and traffic in the neigh- bourhood was greatly affected, if not altogether suspended. Howerer, when it became known that the small, nevertheless, plucky local police force was likely to be augmented,for a message had been despatched to the forts close by for a special mili- tary guard, the gallant defenders beat a hasty retreat, leaving behind them only a few belts and tattered capes as remnants of the affray. But Police-sergeant Brinn and his men were not to be outdone, for at the early hour of five o'clock on Sunday morning they visited South Hook Fort, and at the sergeant's request, Adjutant-captain Lushing- ton called a parade of the four companies in camp belonging to the Cardiganshire Artillery Militia. Three men were identified by the police as ring- leaders of Satufday night's affray, viz., Joseph Cooper, Ferndale Evan Griffiths, Ystrad Rhondda; and Thomas Williams, Ferndale, and, after a war- rant for their arrest had been procured, they were taken in a closed conveyance to Milford Haven Police-station. They were brought before the magistrates on Monday at a special court. At a special Sessions held at Milford Haven Police Court on Monday Joseph Cooper, Ystrad Rhondda; Evan Griffiths, Ferndale; and Thomas Williams, Ferndale, all colliers, belonging to the Cardiganshire Artillery Militia, now in training at South Hook Fort, Milford Haven, were brought up charged with riotous conduct and assaulting the police in the execution of their duty on Saturday night last under circumstances already reported. Prisoners, who evidently felt their position, made no defence, and the Bench, taking a lenient view of the case, passed sentence as follows :-Joseph Cooper, 14 days' with hard labour; Evan Griffiths, 14 days for Assaulting Police-constable Lewis and 14 days for assaulting Police-constable Llewellyn, both terms to run con- currently; and Thomas Williams, 7 days' hard labour. Prisoners were removed to Carmarthen Gaol. Colonel Jones, in command of the Militia, has placed Milford out of bounds." This order was read out at church parade at South Hook Fort on Sunday morning by Adjutant-Captain Lushington, In consequence of the order none of the men will be allowed to come into town except on duty or special leave. The captain intimated, however, that if the men behaved themselves well the order might be somewhat modified in the course of the four weeks' training that yet remain to be gone through. The seriousness of Saturday night's row has not by any means been exaggerated, as for over an hour the soldiers were quite out of hand. There were a hundred or two of them present, many of them in a half-drunken condition, and at one time the affair assumed the proportions of a riot, large stones and other missiles flying in all directions. Fortunately, the damage done was not vety serious, and the several policemen engaged in the scuffle got off remarkably well, being little the worse for the rough handling they received. Up till Monday there were 600 men of the Car- digan Militia at South Hook Fort and 100 re- cruits of the Pembrokeshire at Hubberston. These have been in the forts a fortnight. During the day the Pembrokeshire contingent was augmented by another 300 men, and 450 of the Carmarthen- shire Artillery Militia also arrived and took up their quarters at Fort Popton. The Cardigan contingent are by general consent looked upon as the roughest, most of them being colliers from Glamorgan who have enlisted in the Militia of their native county.

Aberystwyth Town Council. MR. HOPKINS' ALTERATION. A LONG MEETING. The ordinary meeting of the Aberystwyth Town Council took place on Tuesday, those present being Councillor D. C. Roberts (Mayor), Councillor John Jenkins (Ex-Mayor), Aldermen Peter Jones, T. Doughton and W. H. Palmer, and Councillors It Peake, E. P. Wynne, C. M. Williams, R. Doughton, J. P. Thomas and G. Croydon Marks, with the Town Clerk (Mr. A. J. Hughes), and the Borough Sur- veyor (Mr. Rees Jones). WELSH INDUSTRIES. The Mayor said he had received a letter from Mrs. Harford, Falcondale, Lampeter, saying it was proposed to hold an exhibition of Welsh industries at Aberystwyth in August and asking if the Coun- cil could give her any assistance in making arrange- ments. He wrote back to say the Council would be delighted to do anything they could to help. He suggested that the Council authorise the General Purposes Committee to give Mrs. Harford and her Committee all the help they could. He thought the College authorities would probably allow the exhibition to be held there, and he did not know that the financial question arose in the matter at all. Councillor J. R. Jones: There is nothing in the letter which refers to any responsibility. The Mayor: No; I was going to ask you to refer it to the Committee. Councillor R. J. Jones moved to that effect. Alderman Palmer seconded and it was agreed to. EXPIRATION OF OFFICE. The Town Clerk read a letter from the College authorities stating that the term of office of the Council'srepresentative on the Court of Governors of the U.C. W. expired on September 10th, 1899, and ask- ing the Council to elect a representative for a further term of five years from that date. The Town Clerk added that lie intended to put it on the agenda for the next meeting. THANKS. The Clerk to the Managers of the County Inter- mediate School wrote thanking the Council for their permission that the Sanitary Inspector should inspect the certified lodging-houes for pupils of the school. ARCHITECTURAL MATTERS A letter was read from Miss Gilbertson in refer- ence to terms of the renewal of her lease of a house in Prospect street. The terms stated that the whole of the house must be demolished, but having regard to the good state of the walls she did not think it necessary to pull down the whole house. She would do everything requisite to put it into repair. The letter was referred to the Finance Com- mittee, as was also one from Messrs Allsopp with regard to an extension of time for the alterations at St George's Hotel. A PROFITABLE TRADE. Messrs Berni Bros. wrote to the Town Clerk as follows: We beg .respectfully to apply to the Town Council for the lease for say five years of the ex- clusive right of selling ice cream from one truck on the beach in front of the Terrace during the summer months, and we are prepared to pay £10 a year as rent (laughter). Alderman Peter Jones said this was a question- able source of revenue. Councillor G. Croydon Marks: Any germs 1 (laughter). Alderman Peter Jones moved that it be referred to the General Purposes Committee. He thought they had made up their mind not to recognise anything of that kind. The room on the Terrace was limited enough now. Councillor R. Doughton seconded and it was agreed, the Mayor observing that it was not likely they would entertain it. MR. HOPKIXS' LEASE. Mr. Hugh Hughes on behalf of Councillor Isaac Hopkins wrote as follows I have been consulted by Mr. Isaac Hopkins with reference to the dispute unfortunately existing between himself and the Town Council and the claim he has made for com- pensation for damage sustained. He is most desirious of avoiding further conflict, and without prejudice to his legal rights, and with a view to determing all disputes he has instructed me to state that if the committee are prepared to grant him a renewal of the lease of his two houses in South Road forthwith on the terms quoted in 1895, and to grant him a building lease of the sites in South Road agreed to be leased to the late Mr. Belham on the same terms and conditions in the event of that lease not being taken up he is pre- pared to withdraw all claims against the Town Council. In applying for a lease of the sites in South Road I would remind the Town Council that they would only be acting in accordance with their usual practice in granting the lease to him as occupier. The Mayor: What is yourpleasure in this matter, gentlemen? Councillor R. J, Jones Can we settle the ques- tion in the council to-day, sir ? Alderman Palmer suggested that it be referred to the Finance Committee. Councillor R. J. Jones: I see Mr. Hopki,ns has withdrawn all his claims. It is made a very simple business now. Councillor Peake As you are aware all this matter was discussed at the last Finance Com- mittee on the very same terms and adjourned. I can hardly see the use of bringing it forward again at the council meeting like this. The Mayor: It is a matter for you, gentlemen. Alderman Palmer I was not at the last Finance Committee, but I think they required a letter of' that sort from Mr. Hopkins. Councillor Williams said that was not so; they had a letter from Mr. Hopkins. Alderman Palmer proposed that it be referred to the Finance Committee. The Mayor: Will anyone second it 1 There was silence for a minute or two, and then Councillor J. R. Jones rose, although not to second the resolution. He said they knew perfectly well what transpired at the committee, but he thought it was understood that if Mr. Hopkins was prepared to withdraw all his claims the leases would be granted to him. It seemed by the letter which had been read that he was waiving all his claims, and it was a question for the council as to granting the lease or not. He thought they were in a position to do something in regard to the matter. As they were aware it had been before the council for five or six years. One of the houses was empty, and Mr. Hopkins was losing money every day. He thought they should take this view of it, and treat Mr. Hopkins as generously as they could. He pro- posed that the lease be granted him. The Mayor: That would have to go on the agenda. Councillor R. J. Jones To be confirmed next council meeting. I should propose it to-day. The Mayor: It will have to come from the Finance Committee. Councillor J. R. Jones: I understand similar things have taken place in the council and been confirmed at the next meeting. The Mayor Not in a similar case to this. Councillor R. J. Jones: In another case where it was thought necessary to grant a certain con- cession. I don't think this is a concession; it is only a just claim. The Mayor: It must come from the finance Committee. Councillor R. J. Jones: It has been before the council for a long time as you :know. It has been placed on the agenda, and the only reason you have not granted his lease is because of the claims he has made against the council. Councillor Peake: Mr. Jones knows perfectly well that the very same terms given in this letter of Mr. Hughes' were submitted to the finance com- mittee. Councillor R. J. Jones I say emphatically no. Councillor Peake: I say emphatically yes. The Mayor: We must have no discussion on the matter now. Councillor Peake: You have allowed Mr. Jones to explain, sir. The Mayor: He desired to take a certain course, and it was necessary for me to hear what he had tc say. I practically told him he was not able to take that course. 4Councillor Peake: Mr. Jones is wrong in his statements. Councillor Wynne at this stage of the proceeding's seconded Alderman Palmer's proposition. Seven voted in favour and Councillors Williams and Peake against the latter saying that he voted thus simply because it had been discussed before. Councillor Williams added that he voted against it because Councillor Hopkins held a legal threat before the Council. It was consequently referred to the Finance Committee. Councillor Williams rose to speak, but the Mayor said he could not allow any dis- cussion. RAILWAY FACILITIES. The Town Clerk informed the Council that in accordance with their instructions he had written to the Great Western Railway officials with reference to more facilities being granted between London and Aberystwyth, and they had replied that their arrangements were complete for the season, and they could not make any addition to the ex- cursion which left Paddington each Wednesday dur- ingthe summer. There were however cheap week-end bookings, the third class return being 24/6. He wrote to them again, and pointed out what visitors Aberystwyth had from the L. & N. W., but had received no further communication. Councillor Williams: We are getting more this year from the Great Western than we have ever had before. The Town Clerk: There is a very prominent notice given in their time-table of Aberystwyth and other places on the coast. Councillor Williams said that if they kept the question open and communicated with the Great Western in good time, he believed that next year they would secure the advantages desired. A SMALL MATTER. Inspector Morgan, hearing that a cap was to be ordered for him, wrote asking the Council for a patrol jacket and trousers to match.—This was referred to the General Purposes Committee. CARTING OF DEBRIS. A letter was read from Mr. Hall calling attentien to the carting of debris at the back of Victoria Terrace and ask that the Surveyor should receive definite instructions that the carting should be stopped. It had previously been decided that it should cease on May 1st. The road at the back was so unfit for traffic that the pig wash fjom the Hostel was carried along the front of Victoria Terrace. The Borough Surveyor said he saw the parties who were using the roadand called their attention to the time stipulated by [the Council. He had no definite answer, but he found the debris was still being taken there. Councillor R. Doughton: I suppose the debris does no .harm at all. It is the state of the road they are complaining about. The Mayor You have heard the letter read, and have been informed that your instructions as a Council are not being carried out; what is your pleasure in the matter ? Councillor Peake: The surveyor has his instruc tions, Mr. Mayor. Alderman Peter Jones thought it should be left, because there was a question of ownership involved. Councillor R. J. Jones seconded and it was agreed to. It was afterwards discussed in com- mittee A BANDSTAND WANTED. The Town Clerk read a letter from Mr. Jack Edwards, conductor of the Aberystwyth Town Band, asking the Council to consider the question of erecting a properly constructed Band Stand. It would not be in the way, the music would be more effective, and more pleasure would be afford- ed the public. A box could be put on the outside to receive the voluntary contributions of visitors and others. The cost he estimated at P,40 or P-45, minus the contributions received from visitors, which he believed would be numerous, This was referred to the General Purposes Com- mittee and two other small applications with re- gard to buildings were referred to the Puhiic Works Committee. HARBOUR MATTERS. Councillor R, Doughton, moved the adoption of the harbour Committee minutes of May 8 and 9, including the following: Sea Wall Your Committee met on Rofawr to consider the advisa- bility of extending the new wall, and recommend that the same be extended 36 feet towards the Harbour so as to overlap the second breach which was made in the timber work in February last. The estimated cost of the proposed extension is £ 125. Alderman T. Doughton seconded and this was agreed to. PUBLIC WORKS. Alderman Peter Jones presented the report of this Committee, the most important business was that the Committee approved of a plan and section submitted by the Surveyor for the drainage of Cae Charels, and gave instructions to advertise for tenders for the necessary excavations and pipes. He moved that the report be adopted, and this was agreed to. GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE. Councillor E. P. Wynne moved the adoption of the General Purposes Committee which dealt with advertising the town, also recommending that two delegates be sent to attend the Congress of Public Health at Blackpool. Councillor Wynne explained that in case no Councillors wished to go, it was understood that the Medical Officer and Surveyor attend. THE FINANCE COMMITTEE. Councillor Williams moved that the Finance Committee minutes be adopted as far as regards the visits to corporation property and the payment of bills. Agreed RENEWALS OF LEASES. mendation of the Finance Committee of the grant- Councillor Williams moved the approval of recom- ing of a lease to Mr. H. E. Wheatley, Terrace-road, on the condition of new roof, new chimney stacks, new windows front and back, and the drains made in compliance with the bye-laws. The original grant was made in 1821, there being 22 years unexpired. Rent P,50, with 15 per cent. off E42 10s. -This was agreed. Another recommendation, moved by Councillor Williams, was with reference to the granting of a lease to Mr. William Rowlands, 16, Penmaesglas road. The original grant was October, 1813; the rental £9 with 15 per cent. off £7 13s. The lease to commence 12th November, 1898, and the con- ditions that the chimney stack should be cemented. Councillor Hopkins asked what the Chairman of the Finance Committee or the Surveyor were doing to alter the conditions by just putting a bit of plaster 011 a chimney. He saw by the agenda of February, 1894, that conditions were given to Mr. William Rowlands and Captain Thomas for two houses adjacent, to complete them at the same time and with the same materials exactly. Captain Thomas was obliged to comply with the instructions of the Council, and to put new slates on the roof and a new chimney of pressed bricks. Mr. William Rowlands only turned the slates upside down- (lai-ighter)-an(I just repaired a little bit of the chimney, and said: Oh, I'll make the Council do what I say, and not what they meant to do." Now those slates and the chimney cost Captain Thomas E30 more than it cost Mr. William Rowlands. How could they make one next door neighbour do certain repairs and let the other go free without the repairs ? He could not make that out at all. What was the cause that the Council altered their minds now ? The slates were five years older now, but they were good now they were not good five years ago. And the chimney was good now; but it was the same chimney as five years ago ? He did not know what was the reason. They knew that the Chairman of the Finance Committee, when he (the speaker) mentioned this at the Finance Com- mittee the last time, said he was off his head. (Laughter.) Councillor Williams: Your conduct was, I said. Councillor Hopkins It seems to me tha I am not very far off my head, and I think the Chairman was further off his head than me at that Committee (laughter). I only want what is right and just to every ratepayer. 1 am not going to take the pro- perty of the town and the money of the town to pay for helping me to come to the Council in Nov- ember. I will pay it out of my own pocket, but it seems to me now that the Chairman is doing this Councillor Williams: I object to this, Mr. Mayor; this has nothing to do with the matter, and I ap- peal to you for protection—that you should not allow Mr. Hopkins to make these statements. The Mayor: I will give you all the protection I can, Mr. Williams. Councillor Williams: I must ask you to ask Mr. Hopkins to withdraw the statement that I am doing something which is unfair to the town to advance my own interests. The Mayor: I hope Mr. Hopkins will confine his remarks to the matter before us—the report of the Finance Committee. WhateveAhis references are to the Chairman of that Comimltee, I hope they will not be personal. I do not think he should make any personal reference to any member. Councillor Hopkins: The only thing I made reference to is that Mr. Williams is so particular. The Mayor said Mr. Williams had a perfect right to exercise his judgment on the Committee in any way he thought proper; but they could not allow any personal remarks; the recommendation they were discussing was the recommendation of the whole Committ: e. Alderman Palmer: With reference to this, the matter came before the Council, and there was a recommendation of the Surveyor to grant the re- newal of the lease, because the work had been carried out to the satisfaction of the surveyor. We did not think it right to take the Surveyor's report before receiving the report of the Committee, and therefore it was sent back to the Committee. The case has now been considered by the Committee, who endorse the surveyor's suggestion. Therefore everything is in order and everything has been carried out in the way the Council ordered it to be carried out. One way or the other the whole thing is a matter of form, carried out as it ought to be. Councillor R. J. Jones said he thought it was necessary for the surveyor to give more explanation of the change in his report, because the stipulations three or four years ago were very different to what they were to-day. He thought every member of the Council ought to know the reason for this. The Borough Surveyor said that of course it was true that the conditions mentioned by Mr. Hopkins were embodied in the first recommendation to the Council with regard to the lease. Most of the con- ditions were carried out. With reference to the slates and the chimney stack he refused to give his certificate, as they were not carried out in accordance with the terms. The matter came before the Committee when he thought Mr. Hughes, the Town Clerk, was present, and some questions were put to him (the surveyor) with reference to some conditions that were not carried out. He was asked if he considered the chimney stack sub- stantial—if it could in any way be further improved. He answered that it was quite substantial, and the roofing and slating were quite substantial, but were not exactly in accordance with the terms. It was quite true what Mr I-Iopkis said, that the two houses were probably built the same time, but their was no criterion. Men had been born the same day and one died young of consumption the other surviving to old age (Laughter). Councillor R. J. Jones: You consider the con- dition of the house is good at this time except the chimney. The Surveyor: Yes. Alderman T. Doughton said that the question appeared to him to hinge on one thing. When they sent the conditions out to any ratepayer, were they going to allow each applicant for a lease to do just as he liked? Were they going to issue conditions and then at the end of four or five years alter them ? Councillor J. P. Thomas said he remembered having reason to call attention to this matter before, especially with regard to Mr. Rowlands' house. He failed to understand why the conditions were so much altered from what they were at first. He feared that it must be some weakness on the part of the Council itself or on some members, that tlioy did not adhere strictly to the original condi- tions, He was rather surprised to find the Sur- veyor comparing the human frame to a house; they were not very similar. Proceeding, Councillor Thomas said he took it that at the time these con- ditions were made they were really necessary, and he did not see why Mr. Rowlands should refuse to carry them out. He proposed that they be referred back to the Finance Committee and investigated thoroughly, because if they did differently to Mr. Rowlands to what they did to his neighbour certain dissatisfaction would be felt. Councillor R. Doughton seconded, and said that he had heard from many quarters that chimney stacks had been pulled down and rebuilt by order of the Council when there was no occasion for it at all. These last years they had had hundreds of chimney stacks and hundreds of new roofs—most likely there were hundreds to come again—he hoped they were for the benefit of the town. There were three houses mentioned in the agenda as wanting new roofs, and he dared say some of these were in as good a condition as the one they were discussing. He did not want anything but what was fair, and he thought if they were fair they should ask Captain James to send in his bill. and tell him that they would refund the extra £30 he had ex- pended. But in that case they would have bills from many other people in the town who had been put to unnecessary expense. He did not want to do anything unfair to Mr. Rowlands—he was on very friendly terms with him—(laughter)—but he would notyote for him having these preferential terms. If they did this they would exasperate hundreds to favour one man. Councillor Williams replying, went fully into the details. In 1894. when the Committee visited the spot, the chimney was in a bad state of repair, and required pulling down, and this was ordered to be done. At the time the Council were not in the habit of sending out the terms on which they renewed the lease, and Mr. Rowlands stated that he never received the terms, and did not know what was to be done. He, however, called in a mason, and told him to do whatever was necessary to the house. He did not understand that he was to put new slates on the roof, The mason did the work, and if any member would go and inspect it they would see that it was well done. He (the speaker) did not profess to be an expert in these matters, but he had asked two or three practical masons to look. and they had told him that the quality of the slates on the roof was far superior to those used on Capt. James' house. As a matter of fact, also, Capt. James only put new blue slates on the front, and not on the back. The chimney which was in a bad state was rebuilt by Mr. Row- lands and well pointed. They had heard a good deal about not being fair and just and a good deal about being honest and so on. He hoped they all were. In this case, the chimney was in a far better condition than chimneys they had recently renewed, and was it fair or honest that through some error or mistake of the Councils, the tenant should be put to the expense of fulfilling some entirely unnecessary conditions. Councillor Will- iams quoted cases where unnecessary con- ditions where placed in the leese, and being found to be unnecessary were cancelled, and con- cluded by saying that there ought to be no feeling whatever so far as the members of the Council were concerned (Hear, hear.) He hoped that they saw -that what was carried out was right and just, but at the same time if they made an error, they ought to amend it. Alderman T. Doughton suggested that re- roofing did not mean putting the same slates o n again. Councillor Williams: Any one visiting the house of Mr. Rowlands will see that he did more work than has been required of him. In answer to a question by Alderman Doughton he said it was only for the last eighteen months or so that it bad been customary for the conditions to be sent in writing to each party. Councillor Marks asked for the definition of the term re-roofing from the Surveyor. Did it not mean new slating. The Surveyor: What I mean generally by a new roof or re-roofing, is that the whole roof—timber, slates. &c.—shall be put up new. Councillor Hopkins: Re-roofing, of course. The Mayor Older, order. Councillor Hopkins said conditions were given to him in writing five years ago. The Mayor said it had only been an established custom for about eighteen months. Alderman T. Doughton Whose duty is it ? There is some laxity somewhere. The Mayor Order, order. The debate is closed. For the amendment four voted, and for the pro- position eight. The proposition was accordingly carried. "NO TASTE." Councillor Williams moved that a lease be granted to Mrs. E. James, 49, North Parade. The original grant was made in October. 1808. The rental was £19, with 15 per cent. off £163s. The conditions included a new roof, new windows front and back, bay windows in front to match the adjoining houses; new chimney stock of best red pressed bricks the railings in front lowered and fixed uniform with the adjoining railings; new kitchen at the back; the drains made in com- pliance with the bye-laws; See. With respect to the bay windows, Councillor R. J. Jones thought it should be left to the people themselves. One side of North Parade was now very monotonous, there being no taste whatever shown. (Councillor J. P. Thomas: Oh, oh.") The Mayor: I certainly feel very strongly that we shoutd have no compulsory restrictions. Alderman Palmer moved that the sentence in discuss be eliminated. Councillor Peake seconded, and the Chairman of the Finance Committee, accepting the amendment, it was agreed to. SITES. Leases were granted of sites to Miss Elizabeth Evans, 6, Thespian-street, and Mr. Thomas Davies, Nos. 2 and 4, Terrace-road. THE RECREATION GROUND. Councillor Williams proposed for adoption the recommendation of the council that, as no letter had been received from the football and cycling clubs with regard to what they intended doing with a portion of the Llanbadarn Flats, the matter being again deferred. Councillor PeqJre said that notices had been sent to each club asking them to appoint delegates to a meeting, to draw up a scheme for submission to the Town Council. He dared say this would be ready for the nexL meeting. The matter was deferred. MR. HOPKINS AGAIN. Councillor Williams moved the following recom- mendation :—A letter was received from Mr. I. Hopkins in reference to the renewal of the lease of his houses and shipbuilding yard in South-road. The Council having already granted a lease of the land under the sbipbuildingyard to the late Messrs. Belham and Co., the estate being in Chancery, the consideration of Mr. Hopkins' letter was deferred, together with the previous letter sent by him, March 6th, 1899. Having referred to the unfortunate way in which the discussion was conducted at the last Finance Committee meeting, and described the insinuations and charges made bv Mr. Honkins as wholly unfounded, Councillor Williams L said it would be his duty, owing to the attacks made upon him personally by Mr. Hopkins, and the false statements made by that Councillor, to lay the whole facts before the public, however he might be abused. Councillor Williams then read the letter which Mr. Hopkins had sent, saying that )1r. Bearne had told him that the Court of Chancery had refused to let him (Mr. Bearne) have the land, and added that he refused to take any notice of the letter until they had received a communication from Mr. Bearne himself. That gentleman had since written to him saying that he saw from a report of the Finance Committee in the WELSH GAZETTE that Mr. Hopkins had stated that lie (Mr. Bearne) had informed him that the Court of Chancery had refused to let him (Mr. Bearne) have the land. I utterly deny," wrote Mr. Bearne, saying these words. What I did say was this that neither he (Mr. Hopkins) nor I nor anyone else could have the land transferred to them without the consent and sanction of the Court of Chancery and the administrator of the Estate. I also told him that I was now in com- munication at the present time with the solicitor in London engaged with the affairs of Belham & Co., to have the lease transferred to myself. So how could he with truth have written what he is reported to have written I cannot understand. I am still in communication with the solicitor in London re the transfer of land to mvself. If necessary I will attend before the finance com- mittee at their next meeting." Councillor Williams said he thought it his duty to read it to fully confirm the action he took in Committee. The Council could draw their own inference. No injustice had been done to Mr. Hopkins. Mr. R. J. Jones had referred to the fact that the lease had been before the Council four or the vears. Terms were given in 1892, and withdrawn bv Mr. Hopkins himself. Terms were also given in 1895, and owing to the lapse of time had been withdrawn by the Council. No blame attached to the Council in the fact that the house was vacant. The Town Clerk was instructed to serve Mr. Hopkins with notice to quit in 1894. They all supposed that the notice had been served; it had on the next door neigh- bour who left at the proper time, -but Mr. Hopkins sent in a threat of proceedings for damages, and so the Council thought it advisable to ask him to send in a written claim. But he did not do it, he only said he would let them know later on. Having dealt en passant fully with other correspondence, Councillor Williams added that he always felt when Mr. Hopkins got excited, that he was more an object of pity than of anger. He (the speaker) always endeavoured to keep as cool as possible. Councillor Hopkins I daresay (laughter). Councillor Williams, continuing, said he was prepared to disprove the falsehoods that Councillor Hopkins had uttered. With regard to the personal attacks, he could only appeal to them that when such attacks occurred, they should give him their support. He must say. with some amount of sor- row, that he felt grieved at the want of sympathy that he received at the Finance Committee meet- ing—not because the attack was on him personally, but because it betokened a want of respect for the chair. Whoever was in the chair he (the speaker) always endeavoured to support him to the best of his ability, and he expected to receive the same treatment. He must protest against the scandal- ous way in which he was treated at the Finance Committee (Councillor J. P. Thomas: Shame). He had had the sympathy of the public, and every- where he had met with expressions of surprise that the chair was not supported. Statements were made that the Committee knew were unfair he was called he did not know what, when he did not deserve to be called anything. Councillor Wil- liams referred to the action of Councillor Hopkins in reference to the claim for depreciation caused to what he said was his property, and which really belonged to Miss Lewis, and in conclusion said he was not going to run away because of this dastardly attack he was not going to be frightened, and he was ready for the whole matter to be thoroughly investigated. He knew the public would endorse the action the Committee had taken, and he only endeavoured to discharge the duties fairly, honestly and justly. He hoped they were all imbued with that spirit and he defied anyone to prove that he had not acted with perfect fairness. He thanked the Chairman for the latitude he had allowed him. The Mayor disclaimed having allowed any lati- tude, and said Councillor Williams had a perfect right to explain. He (the Mayor) had simply tried to do what was right, and he tried to do that wirh everyone, although it was of course impossible to please all of them (laughter). Councillor Hopkins said Councillor Williams was a gentleman whose word was always true. Councillor Williams: I can prove everything I say. Councillor Hopkins went on to say that he saw Mr. Bearne by the N.P. Bank. They were talking about the lease, and he said I have been refused to get it." Councillor Williams: He denies that. Councillor Hopkins: He said The Court of Chancery won't let me get it." Who was standing close by but Mr. Hugh Hughes. I told Mr. Hughes, and he said, Go back and tell him to stand out of your way, then." And he said he would not stand out of my way; he would try to get it himself. But he said, as certainly as I am a living man, the Court of Chancery would not let him get it. So Mr. Williams tried to make me everything besides a gentleman. Councillor Williams No, no. Councillor Hopkins You can see he is a gentle- man who.always tells the truth. Councillor Williams: It is a question between yourself and me. Councillor Hopkins At the last committee he did not have the correspondence with him, and that was why you did not uphold him, because he told a lie that night. Councillor Williams protested. The Mavor: Order, order. You must withdraw that; you must not make a statement of "that kind. Councillor Hopkins: Don't you remember, Mr. Mayor, that Mr. Williams said we ought to give notice, so that he might have the whole of the correspondence with him ? The Mayor: I cannot be catechised by anyone. (Hear, hear.) I must ask you to confine yourself to the matter. Councillor Hopkins; You allowed Mr. Williams to say everything. The Mayor He had a right to. I must ask you to withdraw the word liar." Councillor Marks: Take it back. Say mistake. Councillor Hopkins: Untruth, then, sir. (Laugh- ter.) The Mayor: I ask you to withdraw that. Alderman Peter Jones also said lie trusted that Councillor Hopkins would comply with the Mayor's request. Councillor Marks: Say mistake. Councillor Hopkins I can withdraw it. The Mayor: That will do. Councillor Hopkins But I can carry my own opinion on the matter. He went on to accuse Councillor Williams of raising the assessment of 'his house to £ 2 above the ratable value. This Councillor Williams denied, being sup- ported by Councillor Peake, and the matter finally dropped, the proposition of Councillor Williams being carried. SALE. It was agreed that the remaining portion of Cae Charles be offered by public auction on June 20th, also the property in Portland-road. REFERRED Applications from Mr. Oscar Beddows, Captain David Lloyd, and Mr. T. D. Harris for leases were referred to the Finance Committee. PRECEPT. Alderman Peter Jones proposed that a precept be granted, directed to the churchwardens and overseers of the poor, directing them to raise Z400 in obedience to a precept of the Aberystwyth School Board, made on the 15th day of April, 1899, being the amount required for the purposes of the School Board up to the 29th day of September next, and that the Corporation seal be affixed to the said precept by the Mayor. Alderman Jones said that the financial position of the Council was tairly satisfactory, and they were hopeful that by the 29th of September they would have a consider- able balance in hand to comply with the stipula- tions laid down by, the auditor. (Hear, hear.) THE SEAL. The Mayor was authorised to affix the Corporate Seal to a conveyance of the close or piece of land called Caefron, to the Parish Councils of Issavndre, Uchayndre, and Vaenor Uchaf. TENDERS, The tender of W. Edwards for excavating in connection with the drainage of Cae Charles at 2s 3d per yard, was accepted, and that of Mr. J. Jenkin Jones, of iE42 for the supply of pipes. MORE LETTERS. Letters were read by the Town Clerk, from Mrs. Davies and family, and Mr. J. H. Davies on behalf of Mrs. T. E, Ellis, acknowledging the kind and sympathetic resolutions passed by the Council on the death of Mr. T. E. Ellis, M.P. OTHER MATTERS. It was agreed that the Borough Surveyor be instrucied to forthwith complete the wall at the North end of the Marine Terrace. Councillor Williams moved, that the Surveyor be instructed to proceed forthwith with the prepara- tion of the specifications, plans, sections and estimates for the channelling, levelling, paving, metalling, and flagging of Loveden-road, in accordance with a resolution passed on the 21st December, 1897, and that the work be proceeded with as soon as possible. This was referred to the Public Works Com- mittee.

BARMOUTH. SIGNS OF SUMMER.—'■ The Roval Magnets are expected to arrive in the town this week to take up their engagement for the coming summer season, and will commence their duties next week.—The chara-a-bancs are to be seen running about daily to the various places of interest in the neighbourhood, and are well patronized by the visitors, who seem to appreciate and enjoy Nature at its best -Bar- mouth can boast of possessing a new weather fore- cast, which even at times beats the barometer-viz., the water carts-for the appearance of the same on the streets is a sure indication of rain.—Preaching: In connection with the Wesleyan District meeting, which is being held this week at Dolgelly, the following preached at Barmouth: Sunday, Rev. T. Jones Humphreys (Mold); Monday evening, Rev. Gwy.'fryn Jones (Llangefni); Tuesday evening, Rev. T. O. Jones Trefan (Conway).—The annual preaching meeting in connection with the Calvinis- tic Methodists was held on Tuesday, at Caegwian, when the Rev. Hugh Pugh (Aberffrau) and Rev, Wilson Roberts (Llanbedr) officiated.

ABERDOVEY. VOLUNTEERS.—The "F" Company of the 5th Vol- unteer Battalion the South Wales Borderers marched from Towyn, headed by the band, and paraded the streets last Saturday evening. C OMMEMOBATIOX. —The Commemoration of the Church Missionary Society was celebrated this week at Aberdo\ ej. First meeting was held 011 Sunday at St. Peter's Church at 11 o'clock. Morning Service's Lessons were read bv the Rev. W. M. Roberts M A (Secretary of C. M. S. for North Wales). Special Hymns and Anthems, as issued by the C. M. S. for Centenary Services and Meetings, were sung. The Sermon was preached by t he Rev. J. Rowlands AT A Vicar. The reverend gentleman took for his' 'text Numbers, chap. xxni. verse 25, and based his dis- course on the first 50 years' work of C. M. S. He said that the C. M. S. was founded in 1799, at a meet- ing held in a public room of the Castle and Falcon Hotel, London. There were present 16 clergymen and 9 laymen, and after being in existence for 13 years the present title of the Society was first used. The first president was Admiral Lord Gambrier, and the first secretary was the Rev. Thomas Scott (1799— 1802), but that it was not till 24 years after that the actual work of the Society began, under the second secretary, Rev, Josiah Pratt. The first candidate for missionary work was Mr. Henry Martin, who sub- sequently went to India, not as a missionary, but as a chaplain. In 1804 two Germans became mission- aries, and that it was not till 1809 that two English- men, William Hall, joiner, and John King, shoenfaker, became missionaries. How these missionaries ar- rived at the first mission field in the Suru country in. West Africa, is a matter of history. The reverend gentleman graphically described and dwelt largely on the trials, privation, and hardships of the first mission- aries sent out to Sierra Leone, India, China, Japan, and New Zealand. He brought his discourse to a close by appealing to all earnest Christians to help the Society to extend its noble work in every possible way. In the afternoon, at 3 o'clock, there was a special children's service, when the Rev. W. M. Roberts gave an address. In the evening, at 6 o'clock, the Rev. D. Jones, rector of Aberercli, preached in Welsh to a, crowded church. The great feature of all the ser- vices was the splendid singing of the choir, and credit is due to the choirmaster and Mr. Evan Davies for the trouble they took to bring the choir to such a high standard. Misses Williams and Janetta Jones, Messrs E. Davies and W. Cookson took the leading parts in the quartetts.and solos, Monday—Holy Communion was celebrated at 8 o'clock in The morning, and a short address by the Vicar. In the afternoon all the children and adults belonging to the Church were entertained to tea at the National School, about 250 in all sat down. The following ladies presided at the tables:—Mrs. Rowlands (Vicarage), Mrs Roberts (Morwylfa), Mrs. Bonner, Mrs Jenkins, Mrs. Hughes, Mrs. Roberts, Mrs Jones (-N.S.), Mrs. Ed. Jones, Mrs. W. Morris, Mrs. E. Davies, Mrs. Hopkins, Mrs. Bill, Mrs. Williams, and the Misses Rawson. And amongst the visitors there were noticed the Revs. J. Rowlands, W. M. Roberts, S. Evans (curate), and R. Davies (Towyn), Mr. J. M. Howell, Captain Edwards, Messrs. Ed. Jones, W. J. Eves, Evan Davies, John Evans, Ernest Hichards; C. Ellis, E. L. Rowlands, R. Ff. Williams, Z. Jones, and others. The tables were tastefully decorated with garden and wild flowers, and the walls were drapedVith flags, and decorated with coloured pictures, illustrating the Mission Fields of different parts of the world. These pictures as well as curiosities, idols, &c., that were exhibited were lent for the occasion from the Society's Museum in London. Great credit is due to the following gentle- men for decorating and preparing the room, &c., for the occasion Captain Edwards, Messrs. J. Hendries, Evan Davies, Rees Davies, John Davies, Edward Jones, and Henry Green. Mrs. Eves was responsible for the waiting, and she was ably helped in her arduous work by the follow- ing ladies:—Misses Maggie Thomas, Jenkins, Row- lands, O'Neill, Morwenna Williams, and Mrs, Clayton. After tea all the children were presented with com- memoration medals, and whilst the tables were cleared, an impromptu sacred concert was held, when hymns, songs, and solos were sung, and everybody heartily joined in the singing. Everything was carried out in a most satisfactory manner. There was an abundance of all good things, and, the day will long be remembered by all present. In the evening at seven o'clock, in the National School, a missionary meeting was held, and an able address was given by the Rev. W. M. Roberts. The Vicar presided over a large gathering. Mr. Roberts gave a very interesting lecture on the practical work that is now being, and has been, done by the C.M.S. ministers in different parts of the world, and the lecture was more interest- ing on account of the picture on the wall. These pictures, lie reminded his hearers, had a history. He described how the work was carried on, and that the society were at the present time ready, as soon as opportunity is given, to send missionaries to Khartoum and Fashoda, and already they have established stations in the most outlandish places such as amongst Eskimo in Cumberland Sound, and another on Mackenzie River within the Arctic Circle, and a station was established years before gold was discovered in Klondyke district, and that the work was carried on in more than sixty languages. In China, in connection with the nine C.M.S. Medical Mission Centres, last year there were treated in hospital nearly 4,000 in-patients and 117,000 visits were paid by out-patients through this medical work. Invitations are continually received to open up fresh districts. The reverend gentleman concluded his address by making an earnest appeal to all present to help the society. Mr. Edward Jones proposed "A vote of congratulation to the centenary of the C.M.S." It was seconded by the Rev. S. Evans (curate). Mr. Z. Jones proposed "That it was the duty of every Christian to support the C.M.S." Seconded by Mr. Hendries. The Vicar having spoken, the meeting terminated.

ARTHOG. DEATH.—We regret to announce the death of Mrs. Lewis, the beloved wife of Mr. Thomas Lewis, 7, The Terrace, Arthog, which took place on Monday after- noon, May 15th, in her 39th year. Mrs. Lewis was only ill for a week, during which time she suffered greatly, having been taken by pleurisy and pneumonia, which in time brought on congestion of the brain, and she passed away peacdiolly in sleep abont 1.30 on Monday afternoon. She had wished good-bye to her devoted husband on the Thursday night previous, and had since been unconscious, Much sympathy is felt with Mr. Lewis and the three children which are left to grieve the death of a faithful and loving wife and mother. She will be burled to-day (Thursday) at Llwyngwril graveyard.

BORTH. OBITUARY.—We regret to record the death of Llewelyn Thring Roberts, second son of the fete Rev. R. r. Roberts, of Garibaldi House, which to place on Sunday morning last. The deceased, who was in his twenty-second year, was well known, and had a large circle of friends and acquaintances, by whom he will be much missed. Much sympathy is expressed with his widowed mother and brethren in their bereave- ment. The funeral takes place to-day at Botti).