Papurau Newydd Cymru
Chwiliwch 15 miliwn o erthyglau papurau newydd Cymru
9 erthygl ar y dudalen hon
BALA.
BALA. BOARD OF GUARDIANS—SATURDAY. Present: Mr. Evan Jones (chairman), Mi"" Parry (vice), Mrs. Price, Mrs. Morris, Messrs Daniel Roberts, Robert Jones, Wm. Richards, Robert Hughes. J. J. Edwards, L. J. Davies, E. M. Roberts, J. LI. Jones, R. Davies, and E. M. Roberto, Roberts, J. Ll. Jones, R. Davies, and E. M. Roberto, with J. R. Jones (clerk), and T. R.Dakin (assistant clerk). STATISTICS. The balance in the Treasurer's hands was reported to be Z148 15s Od., and in the Relieving Officer's hands P,10 14s lid. During the last three weeks £46 6s Od had been administered in the relief of 136 out door paupers as against Z55 0, 6d to 165 last year. The Treasurer had during that time received £73 from Llandderfel Parish, and i22 18s 6d from Dolgelley Union. THE HOUSE. The Master reported that there were 19 inmates in the Workhouse last week, this being a decrease of five on the corresdonding week last year, one case of admission and three of discharge were reported, one including the lad Thomas J. Evans, removed to Tyddynucha. The Master's application for the two clays leave of absence was granted. Messrs J. Ll. Jones and R. Davies reported that they had Visited the House that day and found everything clean and in order. There were no complaints. A letter was read from the Local Government Board rescinding the order made some time ago, for a loan of E400 towards the erection of vagrant wards, as the Guardians had found themselves able to discharge the expense out of current revenue. A letter was read from St Saviours Union enclosing copy of a resolution passed at a conference of delegates from the various Poor Law Boards of the metropolis, with regard to the advisability of providing separate and special accommodation in suitable districts for selected tuberculosis cases Mr. R. Thomas observed that a good deal of atten- tion was paid to this subject at present, and he proposed that the consideration thereof be deferred until more information is secured. The Guardians passed a resolution to that effect. A circular letter was read from the Local Government Board calling attention to an amend- ment of the law effected by the Army (Annual) Act 1899. URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL The ordinary meeting was held on Saturday last when they were present Mr. R. W. Roberts (chair- man), Mr. J. W. Roberts (vice-chairman), Messrs D. Jones (Birmingham House), D. W. Jones. H. Evans, H. LI. Davies. D. Jones (joiner), R. LI. Jones, M.J. Jones, W. T. Jones, T. R. Dakin (deputy clerk). FINANCE. The report of the Finance Committee showed a balance at the beginning of the month of £ 229 4s SrI. Deducting from this the cheques .passed for payment that evening viz. R145 9s Id, reduced the balance to £85 18s 4d. KAILW AY FACILITIES. A letter was read from the Great Western Railway Company stating that they much regretted that time would not permit the 9.30 a.m. passenger train ex-Paddington stopping at Bala junction. At the same time it was fpointed out that the 9.50 a.m. train from Paddington gave a good service all through the year. The "Conncil discussed the matter, contending that the non-stoppage of the train referred to pre- cluded visitors from dropping here. This meant a considerable loss to the town, and it was resolved that the Chairman and Mr. R. LI. Jones, with the Clerk, communicate again with the Company. WATERING CART. NO DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT CASH. A letter was read from Messrs. Glover and Co., IVarwick, stating in reply to the Council's applica- tion that they could not allow any discount in their account as their quotation was quite nett." PLANS. The plans of the new Girls' School was again under consideration. The Council approved of the plans, with the exception that they should again consider what should be done with regard to the overflow from the cesspool to the public sewer. RELAYING OF WATER PIPES. The Finance Committee having considered as much of this matter as pertained to their province, and the report of the Surveyor with the estimated expense, recommended that if the Council decided upon doing the work en bloc" that a rate be levied to meet the expense. They also threw out the suggestion that a part only of the work should be done this year so as to avoid levying a rate or contracting a loan. Resolved upon the motion of Mr. D. Jones (Bir- mingham House), seconded by Mr. H. Evans, that a part of the work be done as soon as possible, the part to be done to be determined by the Water Committee and the Surveyor. Mr. H. Evans proposed, and Mr. D. Jones (Joiner), seconded, that the work be carried out by the Sur- veyor. Mr. H. LI. Jones proposed an amendment and Mr. D. Jones (B. House) seconded, that tenders be invited for doing the work under the directions of the Committee. A long discussion then followed, in the course of which some of the members appeared to think it an insult to the Sur- veyor to invite tenders. Others strongly re- pudiated the idea, asserting that in cherishing notions of this kind they were lowering the dignity of the Council. Mr. W. T. Jones said the matter had been before the Water Committee several times. They felt that the Surveyor had enough work cut out for him already, and that he could not do the work without engaging a larger number of men. When the motion and amendment were at last put to the meeting it was found that four voted for the amendment and four for the original motion. The Chairman's casting vote decided in favour of the amendment. Mr. H. Evans argued that there was only one motion before the meeting, and that the original motion of his was irregular owing to the fact that its seconder was absent when the division took place. The Chairman, however, ruled the proceedings in order. FIRE BRIGADE AND LIFE-SAVING CORPS. The Committee appointed to consider the organ- isation of a fire brigade and life-saving corps submitted the following recommendations :(I) That the Council organise a volunteer life-saving corps and tire brigade in Bala. (2) That a class be organised to be under the discipline of Dr. Williams. (3) That the Council advertise for volunteers, the names to be sent to the Clerk. (4) That an application be made to the County Council for leave to store the appliances at the Town Hall. It was resolved upon the motion of Mr. J. W. Roberts, seconded by Mr. M. J. Jones, that the report be adopted. It was decided also upon the motion of Mr. R. Ll. Jones, seconded by Mr. M. J. Jones, that the Committee carry out the recommendations. LIBRARY COMMITTEE. The report of the Committee was to the effect that two tenders had been received for the supply of books: one from Messrrs. Davies & Evans, Bala, at 2d in the £ discount off published prices, those books marked 'nett' by the publishers, and the other tender was from Mr. Llewelyn Edwards, Bala, whose terms was 2d in the £ discount on all books. The Committee had accepted the latter's terms. The Committee further decided that an application be made to the annual subscribers to renew their aunbscriptions. The other resolutions of the Committee were: (3) To apply to R. J. Ll. Price, Esq., Rhiwlas, to ask him to furnish the Library with a copy of the book recently published by him. (4) That four additional shelves be procured for the Library. It was resolved that the report of the committee be adopted. Mr W. T. Jones objected to asking any person to present them with a book. He did not like the idea. APPLICATION FOR HOLIDAYS. An application was made by Edward Morris and John Jones, two of the Council's employees, for the usual holidays. The Council granted 3 days holidays. Subsequently the Surveyor applied for leave of absence. A week's leave was granted. ADJOURNMENT, It was resolved at its rising to adjourn this meeting to Friday evening next to consider a notice of motion by Mr. W. T. Jones, "that the resolution passed in favour of getting an additional number of gaslights in different parts of the town be rescinded, and that the Council reconsider the matter of lighting those parts, and every other part of the town, more effectively and cheaply." .Other business will also be transacted.
DOLGELLEY.
DOLGELLEY. TENNIS TOURNAMENT. -The Dolgelley Tennis ■Club on Wednesday played the Barmouth Tennis Club on the Tennis Ground, when the home team proved victorious. PERSONAL.—Mr. A. P. Morgan, who was for some time assistant master at the Boys' School, has been appointed assistant master to a large school under the Llanddeiniolen School Board, Carnarvon- shire. HE FREE LIBRARY.—It was prophesied that the committee appointed to consider the state of the Free Library had given it up as a bad job. However we are pleased to say it is not so, and the committee has been convened for to-night (Thurs- day). THE BANK HOLIDAY.— The weather being exceptionally fine on the Bank Holiday, a large number visited various places of interest in the neighbourhood. A good number of the young people visited Barmouth. Cor wen, Pwllheli &c. and other places. FAIR.—A sheep and cattle fair was held here on Tuesday, when a large number attended, and good prices were realized. THE BOYS' SCHOOJ STAFF.—The School Board have advertised for an assistant master for the bovs's school, the candidates to state salary re- quired. The Board had before advertised for an assistant master at a salary of zP,60 a year, but had failed to be satisfied. It is rumoured that the students leaving Bangor College the last tenn had pledged together not to apply for the place, as the salary was considered too small. THE WELSH MATRICULATION. Miss Mary Ellis, Bro Arran and Miss Annie Jones, Bala, (grand-daughter of Mrs. Edwards, Plasyndref, Dol- o- o-elley) have passed successfully passed the matriculation examination of the Welsh University. Both are pupils at Dr. Williams School, and in our last issue we were announcing their success in Dr. Williams' School Scholarship of Z25 a year which they have decided to hold at Aberystwyth. THE SCHOOL BOARD,—The ordinary meeting of the School Board was convened for Thursday when Mr. William Hughes (chairman), Mrs. Richard Williams, and E. W. Evans (members), Mr. H. Jones Griffith (clerk), and Mr. David Williams (assistant clerk) attended. Four members being required to form a quorum, no meeting was held, and it is likely that a special meeting will be convened during this week. MR MEYRICK JONES, J.P., RETiRixoi—-Mr. M. Jones, J.P., after being In business for a very long- period has decided to retire and has sold his ex- tension premises to Messrs Solomon Andrews and Sons, who intend carrying on the factories as well as the fhop, and have also purchased Mr. John Griffiths, Commerce House's bursaries, who, it is said, will act as manager, for Messrs. Andrews, & Son. Mr. Meyrick Jones' retirement will be a great loss to the town, but it is to be hoped that he will have many years to enjoy the well-deserved rest be has secured to himself t'hrougn his retire- ment from business. It is also hoped that Messrs. Andrews' connection with this town and trade will prove a great boon to the neighbourhood and that tee woollen trade will flourish as in days of yore. A HANDSOME GIFT.—A gentleman who wishes his naina to be kept a secret has sent the handsome gift of F,100 through the hands of Mr. William Williams, Greenwich House, towards defraying the debt that remnins on Bethel Chapel. A great effort is about to be made to clear the debt which amounts to P.360, and Mr. J. Edwards, Coedcymcr, had offered to add 10 per cent. to whatever the congregation can collect in various ways. CRICKET. On Monday the Dolgelley Cricket Club journeyed to Llanvchain to play the team of that place. The Dolgelley team suffered defeat, the Llanvchain team scoring 63, and the Dolgelley team 56. The score was as follows :— DOLGELLEY. David Jones, b Bec-ket 1 F. W. White, c W. H. Owen b Williams 18 J. R. S. Furlong, c Owen b Williams .18 J. "Williams, b Williams 0 E. A. Williams, lbw, b Beckett I J. Humphreys, b Williams 0 G. W. Kinman. b Williams 0 W. E. J. Clarke, not out 4 R. Lewis, b Beckett 7 A. E. Hughes, c Williams b Beckett 0 J, A. Jones, run out .2 Extras.5 Total.56 LLANYCHAIN. Capt. Chalk, c & b White I .1 D. P. Williams, c Jones b Lewis 4 H. E. Griffith, c Jones, b Lewis .2 Watkin Williams, lbw, b White 1 J. L. Beckett, c Furlong b White .1 D. D. Jones, b White 4 Rev. T. Hughes, lbw, b Lewis 1 P. Tomkys, b White 1 W. H. Owen, c E. A. Williams b Lewis.8 W. G. Rigby, c Furlong b White .21 A. G. Jones, not out.11 Extras 8 Total 63 URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL. The ordinary meeting of the Council was held on Tuesday evening when there were present: Mr. J. Meyrick Jones, J.P. (chairman), Messrs. R. Richards, John Jones, E. W. Evans, Ellis Williams, E. Wynne Williams, John E. Jones, John Edwards, Thomas Parry, Edward Williams, and Dr. John Jones (members), Mr. William Jones (surveyor), Mr. Richard Barnett (assistant clerk), and Mr. E. R. Jones (rate collector). IN COMMITTEE. Before the hour of the meeting the Council met in committee to consider the offer made by Mr. E. W. Evans, on behalf of the council to purchas e the plot of land in Smithfield-street. Later Mr. Minshall, solicitor, Oswestry, attended on behalf of the Rev. Ellis Edwards, M.A., Bala, and the coun- cil decided to buy the plot for the sum of Z227 10s inclusive of costs, and a deposit of Z20 was given and the agreement was signed. THE MAESMAWR FOOTPATH. Several members said they understood that one of the owners raised objection to the improvements about to be made to the footpath at Maesmawr, a letter had been received from Dr. Meyrick Meredith Williams, one of the owners objecting to anything being done without the owner's sanction. It was resolved on the proposal of Mr. John Edwards that the surveyor should inform Dr, Williams what was proposed to be done to the path. REPORT OF THE SURVEYOR. The Surveyor reported that the automatic tank had been placed in Lombard-street, and the drain re-constructed, and that both now werked satisfac- torily. The Afon Fach had been cleaned accord- ing to the instructions of the council. The im- drovements to the drain at Crossby Buildings had not been made, although the notice had been served on the owners. The drainage of the first row of the new houses at Arran-road had been con- nected with the sewer, and there was a fall of two feet, but the drains were not sufficiently flushed. The drains of Mr. W. Evans's houses had been connected satisfactorily with the sewer. The wall on the side of the river Arran had been cemented to prevent the flooding of that portion of the town. THE FLOODING OF THE TOWN. In regard to the work done on the wall of the river Arran, some of the members said there was a sum of money at the Bank which had been collected for that purpose. Mr. E. W. Evans said he had been out collecting the money, and that the money collected was for preventing the flooding of the town by the river Arran. After some discussion it was decided that the Chairman, Messrs. Thomas Parry, Edward Williams and Richard Richards, be appointed to see the trustees for the purpose of procuring the money for this object. CROSLEY BUILDINGS. Mr. Thomas Parry proposed that inasmuch as the nuisance complained of in Crosley Buildings had not been remedied, that the owners be summoned forthwith. Mr. E. W. Evans seconded, and it was unanimously agreed to. Mr. Thomas Parry said that they had received a report on the matter four or five months ago, and that it was still left undone. Dr. John Jones said the persons living in the house were risking their lives to live there. Mr. Edward Leighton said they should insist on the work being carried out satisfactorily. THE SMITHFIELD LANE DRAINAGES. Mr. Thomas Parry proposed that a letter be sent to Mr. William Evans requesting him to get the z, drains connected satisfactorily with the sewer immediately, which was agreed to. THE NEW HOUSES AT ARRAN BRIDGE. On the proposition of Mr. E. W. Evans it was decided to write to Mr. J. Chidlaw Roberts draw- ing his attention to the surveyor's report that the drains of the new houses were not flushed satis- factorily. ALTERATIONS AT SKINNERS ARMS. MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING. The Surveyor presented the plans of the pro- posed alterations at Skinners Arms. The Council had asked the Company (Sa\t & Co.) to state what would be the terms for the Council to buy two and four feet towards widening the street in that place. The architect of the Company now presented two plans, one showing a widening of two feet in the street and the other four feet, and the Company asked £45 for the first, and £82 for the second, which the Surveyor said was about £10 a yard, and the Council spent about three-quarters of an hour squabbling over the question. Mr. E. W. Evans said he understood that the plans were satisfactory to the surveyor, and in that case lie proposed that the plans be passed, but that they would not entertain the offer as to purchasing the land for widening the street. Mr. John Edwards said that there was a resolu tion passed that the Surveyor present a written report with each plan, and he wished to know why he did not do so. The Surveyor said that three or four plans of the place had been presented to the Council, and he had visited the place with the Medical Officer, and had presented a report, and he had nothing further to add. Mr. Edward Williams proceeded to catechise the Surveyor for some length of time whilst the members protested that lie was out of order as to some points in connection with the plans, and the Surveyor stated tnat the plans were not satis- factory inasmuch as the plans presented showed the space which was offered the Council which if it was not accepted would make those plans worth- less. Another thing, no written instructions had been presented with the plans, statino- how the yard was to be made, which in time past had been a source of nuisance. Dr. John Jones maintained that they could not pass the plans that night as they were incomplete. Mr. E. W. Evans held that it was not fair to delay them. They had delayed from one meeting to another by getting the company to prepare plans showing such and such a thing, and he pro- posed that they should approve the plans, but that they would not accept the offer as to the land for widening street. He proposed on the understand- ing that they were according to the bye-laws. Mr. Edward Williams again proceeded to cate- chise the Surveyor on certain points, when several members protested. Mr. J. Edwards (rising) said he protested that what Mr. Williams was doing was out of order. Dr. John Jones called upon the Chairman to rule that Mr Williams was out of order. The Chairman commenced to say to Mr. Williams that he ruled him out of order when Mr. Williams said that he had a perfect right to ask the Sur- veyor any question. The Chairman said that it was evident that they could not pass the plans that evening. There was no haste to build these old public houses. Mr. E. W. Evans said he was as much a temper- ance man as anyone, but he objected to the remark made by the chairman as to public houses. He hoped that none of them were going to make unworthy use of their position as members of a public body to state their views as to temperance, and to use their position to prevent alterations at public houses. The Chairman said that what he said was that there was no need to bury the plans. Mr. E. W. Evans No you said that there was no haste to build old public houses. The Chairman: No haste without getting them satisfactorily. Mr. John Edwards proposed that the plans be not approved. After further discussion the Chairman asked if they all agreed that the plans be not approved of, when Mr. Edward Williams again got up and commenced speaking. Dr. John Jones then got up and said that the Council had standing orders, and that it was the duty of the Chairman to see that they were kept. The Chairman ought to sec that Mr. Edward Williams kept them, he was continually breaking them. Mr. John Edwards said there was only one proposition before the meeting, and asked the Chairman to put it to the vote. The Chairman said they were losing time, and that they were all tired and wishing to go home Mr. Edward Williams said he sympathised with the Chairman, and that he knew lie had been very busy these last days, but he believed they had a duty to perform, and which they ought to do. The Chairman then said there was only one proposition, and asked if all were agreed. Mr. Edward Williams said that was not so. Mr. Evans had made a proposal which he seconded. The Chairman asked Mr. Evans if he withdrew, and told him he could quiet the storm if he liked. Mr. Evans said it was a storm, and it would not do them any harm to have five minutes of silence, and was proceeding to explain what he had proposed, when the Chairman asked him sharply if he had an amendment to propose. Mr. Evans then sat down and said he was not going to compete talking with the Chairman or anyone else. After further general discussion, two or three at a time, the Chairman was about to put Mr. Edwards's motion to the meeting, when Mr. Edward Williams again objected, and said that Mr. Evans had made another proposition, which was followed by another uproar. Several members held that Mr. Evans had withdrawn his proposition. Mr. Evans then said that he bad several times endeavoured to explain, but had failed to get an opportunity. He had proposed that the plans be approved, as he understood they were in accordance with the Bye-laws, and he proposed that the plans be approved of, and that they would be sanctioned when the amended plan showing the land which was offered to the Council added to the house, and that they would be willing to call a special meeting to sanction them in order to facilitate the work, as the delay was the fault of the Council. Mr. Edward Williams said he seconded, and it was agreed to unanimously. Mr, John Edwards said this discussion proved that a written report by the Surveyor was necessar and asked that it-should be done in future. NUISANCES. Mr, Edward Williams drew attention to nuisances whichtexisted at Marion Road, and by Pandy Mills, and the Surveyor was instructed to see to them. A NEW BUILDING. Mr. Edward Williams asked if a plan had been presented of a new building at Pendref. The Surveyor said that there was not, and the inhabitants had believed Mr. Williams when he had said a short time ago that a plan of buildings was not needed. LOMBARD STREET. Mr. Edward Williams proposed that a pavement be made in Lion Street, and Mr. Thomas Parry seconded. Mr. John Edwards proposed that the matter be deferred until the question of loan had been settled, which was agreed to. THE WATER SUPPLY. Mr. Thomas Parry, according to a notice of motion, called attention to the state of the water supply, and said that the houses at the top of the town were not regularly supplied, especially in the morning. Mr. J. E. Jones: I would not pay then. Mr. Thomas Parry said that since the last meet- ing he had made enquiries at Mount Pleasant, and found that itlley had the same fcomplaint. The supply of water was not sufficient, and the question he had to ask was what were they to do. Had they anything to do as a Council. Mr. R. Richards said it was their duty to protect the town in this matter as in other matters. Mr. E. Wynne Williams said he believed this was rather a private business. Mr. Edwards Williams proposed that a letter be sent to the directors calling their attention to the complaints. Mr. R. Richards seconded, and said if it was not remedied they would consider the advisability of acquiring a loan towards getting a water supply. It was unanimously agreed that a letter be sent to the directors drawing their attention to the complaints. THE SURCHARGE. The Assistant Clerk reported that the auditor had found the accounts correct, but that the auditor had surcharged the Council to the sum of L18-the surcharge being made against five persons. A sur-charge of £7 10s. was made against Messrs, J. Meyrick Jones, E. W. Evan., and R, Richard, and a sub-charge of £10 10s. against Messrs. John Edwards, Thomas Parry,"and Richard Mills. Both amounts were now paid as salary to to the treasurer on account of the overdrart at the bank. The auditor stated that the Council could not pay interest on overdraft, and as this was really interest on overdraft he had to surcharge against the members of the Council. Mr. Thomas Parry said he had seen the auditor and had explained to him that the overdraft had taken place owing to the law suit and certain improvements. He proposed that the Clerk should write to the Local Government Board asking it not to allow the surcharge, Dr. John Jones seconded, and it was agreed to. THE LOAN QUESTION. Mr. E. W. Evans proposed that the Council should take steps towards procuring a loan for making permanent improvements. Dr. John Jones seconded, and it was unanimously agreed to. Dr. John Jones proposed that a Committee be appointed to take into consideration the financial position of the Council, and the Chairman, Messrs. E. W. Evans, Thomas Parry, John Edwards, and Ellis Williams were appointed. STREET LIGHTING. A letter from the Gas Co. was read, offering to light the town on the same terms as before Mr. R. Richards (jocularly) I suppose it is too late to get the Electric Light this year, Mr. Parry ? Will it be ready by next year ? .Mr. Thomas Parry: Yes. Mr. E. W. Evans said he believed the Council ought to take into consideration the advisability of getting a scheme to light the town with electricity. If they did not do it, they would be sure to be the losers in the future. Dr. John Jones proposed that the terms be accepted. Mr. E, W, Evans proposed that the terms be accepted provided the Gas Company would make some arrangement to prove that the agreement was kept. They had nothing whatever at present to test the Gas, and he held that they ought to get it. Mr. J. Edwards asked if the Council had not decided to buy a photometer. Mr. Evans said they had, but it fell throug, as they had no place to put it, and he now proposed that the terms be accepted on the condition that they should have some means of testing the gas. This was agreed to unanimously, and the question of preparing a scheme to light the town with electricity was referred to the Committee appointed to take the Financial position into consideration. Mr. Edward Williams asked if the Lighting Com- mittee should have power to move any of the k lamps. Mr. Thomas Parry proposed that they should not have that power. They had moved too many. Five or six lamps could be seen from the same spot in some places, while it was very dark in other places. Mr. R. Richards Yes, quite true. Mr. E. W. Evans, having seconded, it was agreed to. TOWN CHIER. Mr. Thomas Parry said that the Town Crier's suit had gone shabby, and that it would be well for the Chairman before he left the business to supply him with a suit. The Chairman said he would have much pleasure in doing so, THE CLERK'S BiLL OF COST. Dr. John Jones said that it was resolved at the last meeting that the Clerk's bill of cost be pre- sented to the Board, and asked if it had been presented. The Clerk said that the bill had not been com- pleted. THE TREASURER'S SALARY. The amount of Treasurer's salary was down for consideration, but as the Council had been sur- charged for the amount paid last year, it was de- cided to submit the matter to the committee ap- pointed to consider the loan question. THE KEFUSE. Mr. Thomas Parry said that there were com- plaints that the refuse was carted to the Green and it was decided to write to the Clerk of the Trustees of the Green, informing them of the com- plaint. THE SHEEP FAIR. Mr. Edward Williams said there were complaints that the Council charged too much (ls a score) for the sheep put in the pens on fair days and wished the charge to be changed. On the advice of some of the members 'Mr. Wil- liams gave notice of motion to consider the matter at the next meeting.
TOWYN.
TOWYN. ANOTHER RUNAWAY.- On Monday morning, whilst a horse in a trap was standing by the shop of Mr. E. Hamer, butcher, Station-road, the driver by some means lost control of the reins and the horse dashed at a tremendous pace through High- street, College Green, and to Corbett-square. It came to a standstill by the Corbett Arms Hotel and within an ace had run amuck against a ladder on which two men were working. These mishaps have been frequent of late and require some attention. SCHOLASTIC.— At the recent Entrance Scholarship examination held at the County School, the name of Miriam Rowlands appears as successful and she is the only one from Towyn. She is a bright and and intelligent girl of eleven summers and is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F. Rowlands, Gwalia- road, and was pupil at the National School. DROWNING FATALITY.—On Thursday evening a gentleman visitor named Watson Smith, hailing' from Manchester and staying at the residence of Mr. Young, Brynteg, was drowned whilst bathing in the sea close by the culvert pipes which convey the drainage and overflow waters from Penllyn Marsh out to the sea. He was alone, and some men noticing his not returning to the sand tumps close by the big volunteer camp where his clothes were, raised the alarm and found that the deceased had fallen on his face, and was dead in comparatively very shallow water. An ambu- lance was at once obtained and the body was conveyed to the mortuary attached to Mr. F. Carter's livery stables and was identified as that of Mr. Watson Smith, of Whalley Range, Manchester, a junior cashier in the Union Bank. An inquest was held on Saturday morning at the Police Station by Mr. R. 0. Jones, deputy coroner for Merionethshire. The foreman of the jury being Mr. J. Maethlon James and a formal verdict of accidentally drowned was returned. The deceased was 34 years of age and was shortly to be married, his fiance being at Towyn. He had been bicycling and rode for hours on the day of his fatal bathe which he insisted on having soon after return to his apartments. His remains were interred on Monday morning at the Cemetery, which he had passed on the day of his death in the full vigour of manhood. The sad case cast a gloom over the town, as bathing fatalities are rare and few and far between at Towyn. The safety of the fine beach extending for six miles from the Dyssynni to the Dovey is well known. It contains no quicksands nor crags, but consists of hard, firm sands. The loveliest beach for bathing in all creation, at least, so the Towynians and visitors assert and one cannot nor have a wish to contradict them. The funeral of deceased was a private one. The Rev. Titus Lewis, vicar, officiated in church and at the Cemetery. Mr. D. O. Jones, Frondeg, being the undertaker. The hearse was supplied by Mr. Jones, late postmaster, and the mourning coaches by Mr. Carter. OUR VISITORS.—The different places of worship were crowded on Sunday last, and the influx of visitors this week has reached its climax, and it is next to impossible to obtain lodgings and apart- ments. In addition to the good class of visitors who patronise and popularise Towyn by their presence during the summer season, now between the hay and corn season are daily arriving, as is the case yearly, the farmers and rustics of Montgomery- shire, Shropshire, Edeyrnion, and other parts of Merionethshire, who make Towyn their short summer resort. The natives designate these visitors as Dowcars," a word of doubtful origin, but which the good folk of Towyn made short work of by saying that the verb "dowcio" meant bobbing up and down in the water, hence bathers must be "Dowcars," as they came there to dowcio "-a most satisfactory and conclusive piece of reasoning. THE Towyx Nr OLUNTFEits,-The "F. Co." 5th Batt. South Wales Borderers mustered well and attended the Inspection at Newtown on Tuesday, and gave excellent account of themselves in drill and discipline. They returned the same day and were well received, and had a hearty "welcome home." CYCLING.—In addition to the Cycle Corps of the big Rrigade Camp now under a week's training on Penllyn Marsh, the streets and suburbs are literally crammed with wheelers. Lady cyclists are par- ticularly numerous, but cautious riding is not what it should be. A cyclist the other day dashed down an incline near the town and passed a dray within a foot and a half of the left wheel of the dray and the wall. There was ample room to passed on the right side of the cart, but it is presumed that keep to the left" is the rule in overtaking as well as in passing other vehicles. THE WEATHER has hitherto been very favour- able, but Saturday last thunder and lightning filled the air. On Saturday the wind culminated to the force of a hurricane. The dust was blinding. Two tents in camp, one a canteen, were blown down, but on Sunday rain fell and the wind ceased, the air was cooled, and the roads and streets did not require the use of the water cart. Monday. Bank Holiday, the weather was all sunshine till the evening, when heavy showers again fell. The rain may not have done much harm, but it was hoped the clerk of the weather would keep his hands off the water taps on Bank Holiday and be con- siderate again for the corn harvest. The town was very busy and full on Monday. OBITUARY.—News reached Towyn late on Tues- day night of the death, at Guy's Hospital, London, of Mr. Idwal Pugh, son of the late well-known Dr. Pugh, of Aberdovey, and of Mrs. Pugh, Cotterel House, High-street, Towyn. Deep sympathy is felt for Mrs. Pugh: in the loss of her only son, a promising and able young man. NEPTUNE HALL.—After being unoccupied for over 20 years, the square-roofed residence called Neptune Hall-but properly Hafod-y-don—has at last been occupied—at any rate, it has been given free of charge, at their disposal, and on their ap- plication, to the officers of the Shropshire Light- Infantry, who, with the 1st Herefordshire and the 1, 2, & 3 Royal Welsh Fusiliers, are encamping on the field opposite and also on the extensive Penllyn Marsh beyond, The mansion, with its commodious appurtenances, has been thoroughly repaired and renovated at short notice. The painting and decorating work has been entrusted to Mr. Wm. Rowlands, the plumbing and sanitary arrangements to Mr. J. Davies, registered plumber, and the general repairs, &c. to Messrs. Jones, Hughes and Edwards, all Towyn firms. Hafod-y-don is pro- minent in its position on the finest beach in Wales, which extends from the mouth of the Dysynni to that of the Dovey, 6 miles of hard, firm sands, safe for bathing at any spot. The proprietress of the mansion is Mrs. Jackson Jones, of St. Alban's-road, Highgate, London, who, in her usual anxiety to benefit Towyn, readily gave the use of the house and premises as mentioned. Mrs. Jones' deceased husband was brother to the late Mr. Jones, of Bryndedwydd, Towyn,
ABERDOVEY.
ABERDOVEY. METEOROLOGY.—Week ending August 5th, 1899, Bright sunshine, 73 8 hours; cloudless days, 3; partly clouded, 4 highest maximum, 76, 2nd Aug.; lowest maximum, 62, 4th Aug. highest minimum, 72, 2nd August lowest minimum, 58, 4th August. TEMPERANCE.—The weekly temperance meeting was held last Sunday evening at the Assembly Rooms Addresses were delivered by the Rev. S. George of Llandrindod, and Miss Mags, of London. These meetings which are so regularly held, are undoubt- edly of great benefit in keeping pub!ic opinion in our town alive to the evils of intemperance. SUSDAY SERVICES.—Last Sunday the Wesleyans commenced with the August series of services, which have now beeome an annual institution. The ser- vices were conducted by the Rev. D. Pugh. of Fes- tiniog. When will they have enough courage and faith to do the right thing, namely, to build an English Wesleyan Chapel in the town ? At the Pres- byterian English Chapel services were conducted, and excellent sermons preached to a numerous con- gation by the Rev. Stephen George, of Llandrindod. Two English services a Sunday are also held at St. Peter's Church for the month of August. PARISH CHURCH.—On Sunday last, at St. Peter's Church, special sermons were delivered by The Venerable Archdeacon Hamilton (formerly mission- ary at Lagos, West Africa) on behalf of the C.M.S. The Church was crowded at both the morning and evening services. In the afternoon at 3. the vener- able gentleman delivered a special address to the young. Collections were made at the close of the services for the C.M.S. The Revs. J. Rowlands, M.A. vicar, and S. Evans, B.A., curate, read the lessons. YISITORs,-Aberdoyev is as full now as it can com- fortably be. In the evenings there is a sprinkling of red to be seen parading the streets representing the vojunteers who encamp in their thousands on Penllyn March, near Towyn. During the day the sands are dotted with mothers and nurses and children enjoy- ing themselves in many and divers ways. One great advantage Aberdovey possesses in this respect is, that children can have their little games with spade and trowel at all states of the tide. The sand is firm to the water's edge always. EDUCATIONAL. -The adage that "nothing succeeds like success has been most strikingly verified in the case of the Board School during the past week. Out of the 54 candidates sitting for Intermediate School Scholarships at Towyn last July 15th, Aberdovey Board School sent in 5, and these 5 occupy respec- tively the first five positions on the list, winning all the full scholarship, four in number and one liali'- scholarship. This redounds to the credit of Mr. Ffestin Williams, the conscientious and hardworking head master, and indicates the real Higher Grade work done in the school. With his kind permission we were allowed to visit the school and inspect the Honours Board set up there, and that all the inhabi- tants of Aberdovey may know whatis printed thereon WI) supply the following information In the year 1894 the Towyn Intermediate School was opened, and since then we find that entrance scholarships have been won by the Aberdovey Board scholars at the following rate :—In 1894. one full scholarship, two halves, first position on list; in 1895, two full scholar- ships, four halves,two first positions on list; in 1896, three full scholarships, two halves, two first positions on list; in 1897, four full scholarships, two halves, four first positions on list; in 1898, two full scholar- ships, one half, second and third positions in 1895, four full scholarships, one half, five first positions. The names of the winners this year in order of merit are: 1, Archibald Williams, 2 Bromley R. W. Jukes, 2 Louisa A. Jones, 4 Anne Evans, 5 Owen David Williams. The total sum earned in scholarship since 1894 amounts to £ 115. i
ATHLETIC SPORTS AT BARMOUTH.
ATHLETIC SPORTS AT BARMOUTH. Barmouth is to the fore in everything. Its annual Athletic Festival—of which the fifth was held on Monday—has come to be recognized as an event'' of no mean importance among all de- votees of sport in the district. Being heartily supported by the leading gentry of the neighbour- hood, the festival has hitherto been attended with unqualified success, and that it will—provided nothing unforeseen happens—be a permanent annual institution goes without saying, Monday being Bank Holiday, Barmouth presented quite a holiday appearance. Hundreds of pleasure seekers poured into the pretty little rock-bound town as someone has christened it, from dewy morn to mid-day, and proceeded to enjoy themselves in the many and various ways peculiar to sea-side resorts. Most of them, of course, came by train, but a good number found their way in capacious brakes and bicycles. The weather—a great factor in the carrying out of the day's programme "•—was all that could be desirod. Ominous clouds scudded across the horizon in the morning, but as noon approached the sun began to gain the ascendancy, and it became so broiling hot in the afternoon that one cast wistful eyes towards the many shady nooks that overlooked the field where the sports were held, whilst the sound of the waves close bv. though monotonous, made one long for a dip. The sports had been announced to commence at half- past one o'clock, and the church clock had scarcely struck one when the strains of the Regimental Band of D Company 1st V. B. R.W.F. told people that it was time to be moving towards the ground. There was a good number of spectators; though, considering it was bank holiday, the crowd might have been larger. The grand stand could have held a good many more. The President of the Society is Lord Ilenry Vane Tempest, and the vice- presidents—all of whom were present during the afternoon are Major T. W. Best, Col. Mainwaring and Major T. A. Wynne Edwards. The lion. sec.— Mr. J. Jones, Brynteg-deserves a word of praise for the energetic manner in which he carried out his heavy duties. The other officials, who gave general satisfaction, were :—Judges Messrs. E. Wilkin. C. E. J. Owen, Col. W. Gorden Patchett, J. M. Smalley, Dr. H. J. Lloyd for Horse Trotting, The President, Vice-Presidents, and Dr. Alfred O. Davies. Starters Messrs. Godfrey C. Isaacs, C. E. Munro Edwards, Major C. A. Corder, R. Jones. Umpires Messrs. C. B. Townsend, Dr. O. Trafford Owen, A. E. Bull. Lap Scorers Messrs. Thomas Piggott, T. A. Bull, H. Parsons. Time-keepers, Messrs. R. Williams, L. Nanney Williams, J. A. Rowlands. Clerks of the Course: Messrs. Edmund Buckley, Douglas Thornycroft, W. W. Morris, J. M. Edwards, D. Oswald Davies, R. W. Jones, H. E. Williams, J. Williams. Handicappers: Messrs. H. P. Ellis, Liverpool, Official Licensed Handi- capper, N.C.U., G. W. Kinman. Hon. Treasurer: Mr. D. E. Davies. Appended are the results Two MILE BICYCLE RACE HANDICAP (OPEN).— First prize, case of fish carvers and eaters in oak case, value £2 2s.; second prize, pair of tweed cycle nickers to measure, given by Mr. H. E. Williams, draper, Barmouth, value El I. There were 14 entries, First beat: 1, G. Ll. Williams, Barmouth; 2, Ted Parry, Carnarvon; 3. G. D. Williams. Towyn. Second heat: 1, R. G. Williams3 Penmaenmawr; 2, A. M. Phillips, Liscard; 3, O. Griffith, Barmouth. Third heat: 1, J. Nixon, Llandrindod; 2, J. H. Rees, Llan- drindod; 3, W. J. Penny, Festiniog. The third heat witnessed an exciting finish. between Rees and Nixon, the latter only winning by a yard. In the final heat some splendid riding was seen. A. M Phillips fell. out of the race early owing to an accident. R. G. Williams kept well in front for some time, but in the fifth lap J. Nixon got ahead, and the roce rested with him and G. H. Williams. In the last lap, J. H. Rees, giving a spurt, forged ahead, and sailed in the winner, R. G. Williams, being a close second. Nixon after having held the lead for some time, slackened speed, considerably in the end, and was third. Time, 6tminutes. ONE MILE FLAT HANDICAP (OPEN).—First prize, case of fish carvers and caters in case, value £2 2s. secone prize, salad bowl and servers, value £ 1 Is ten entries. This was run in one heat. After a good race Tom. Griffiths, Llanrwst, easily won first prize, John Jones, Barmouth, gaining the second. Tom Griffiths, Llanrwst; J. A. Lewis, Newtown; T. Parry, Carnarvon; W. Flanagan, Barmourli; and J. M. Adams, Barmouth, also ran. ONE MILE NOVICE RACE (Scratch).— First prize case'fish eaters value Zl Is Od., second prize inkstand value 10s 6d', nine entries. In the first heat G. D. Williams (Towyn), was easily first, T. J. Williams (Ruthin), coming in second. The other two were E. M. Evans and R. Lloyd Williams, Barmouth. In the second heat only two ran viz. Owen Griffiths (Barmouth), and Harry P. Smith (Liverpool), who of course, ran in the final heat. In the final heat Owen Griffiths kept well ahead, and though passed by G. D. Williams he soon regained his position and won a splendid race. H. P. Smith came in second. Time 3- minutes. ONE MILE BICYCLE RACE, (Open, Scratch).- First prize, challenge cup 31 ounces solid silver, cup to be won twice in succession or three times in all. Second prize, silver medal with gold centre. The second and third heats were run by two only, viz., A. E. Adams (Ruabon), and Ted Parry (Car- narvon), A. M. Phillips (Liscard), and J. Nixon (Llandrindod). In the final heat R. G. Williams (Penmaenmawr), came in a good first, W. J. C. Jones (Llanidloes), being second, and W. J. Penny (Festiniog), third. 100 YARDS FLAT RACE HANDICAP (OPEN).— First prize, marble timepiece, value £2 2s.: second prize, 4 bottle cruets, given by Messrs. J. Minshall and Co; five competed. D. Livingstone Jones (Llanwrst) came in first, J. A. Lewis, Towyn, being second. Other entrants, J. W. Drury, London: David Lewis, Towyn and Owen Owen, Dolgelley. 880 YARDS FLAT RACE HANDICAP (OPEN.). First prize, value Ll Is.; second prize, 10s. 6d. First, W. F. Drury, London, 2t minutes; second, T. Barry, Carnarvon. T. Griffiths, Llanrwst, J. E. Roberts, Corwen, and Parker, Barmouth also ran. OBSTACLE RACE.First prize, case of carvers and steel, silver mounted, value ZI Is.; second prize, plush album, value 10s. 6d.; both given by Lever Bros., of Sunlight Soap fame. First, J. A. Lewis, Towyn; second, J. Jones, Barmouth. ONE MILE BICYCLE (LOCAL) EXTRA RACE.- First prize, case of silver mounted carvers and steel, value iEl Is.; second prize, plush album, value 10s. 6d.; both given by Lever Bros. First, John Richards, Barmouth second, Samuel Davies, Barmouth, HIGH JUMP.—First prize, brown leather Glad- stone bag, valae El Is.; second prize, dressing case, value 10s. 6d. First, Robert Davies, Barmouth second, R. Gibson, Aberystwyth.
PENPARCE.
PENPARCE. YISIToRs.-An unusually large number of visitors were accommodated at this village—or shall we say, suburb, during the week. Almost every available apartment was let, and our visitors enjoyed them- selves thoroughly. For those who did not wish to be too near the sea and find its air at times too strong, Penparce is an admirable place and the houses recently erected can be compared favourably with any in the town. To make the place more attractive the roads and paths should be improved without delay, and a few seats should be fixed at convenient spots. Why not have a village council with, say, Mr Bonner, as mayor ?
Bursting of a Cloud in Cardiganshire.
Bursting of a Cloud in Cardiganshire. A COUNTY BRIDGE DESTROYED. Owing to the destruction of the county bridge at the village of Llanilar through the sudden flooding of the Adal (n Monday, the Surveyor, Mr. Roderick Lloyd, hastily summoned the local members of the County Council to confer with him on the spot on Tuesday morning. The members present were- Messrs Benjamin Jones, Brynda, Evan Richards, Penuwch Robert Ellis and Edward Evans, Aber- ystwyth. Instructions were given to have all vehicular traffic guarded off from the standing remains of the bridge as what remained was con- sidered insecure and dangerous. It is understood that a temporary bridge will be erected forthwith in order to lessen the inconvenience to the in- habitants and visitors as much as possible. The flooding of the river was due to the bursting of a cloud. ANOTHER REPORT. About 2 p.m. on Monday last a terrific thunder- storm broke over Llanilar such as is not re- membered during the last fifty years. The brook Adal which 24 hours previously was scarcely perceptible, so small was its flow of water, assumed gigantic proportions, bearing down huge trees, &c., in its rapid course. The effect of the flood was most noticeable at the mouth of the stream. The timber which was carried down formed a dam under the railway bridge at the confluence of the Adal and Ystwyth and the fast gathering water spread over acres of land reaching within a 100 yards of the railway station. The weight and force of such a large volume of water proved too much for the small bridge and it was swept clean away, only a portion of the upper or east wall re- maining. Having made this outlet the water soon subsided. Fortunately the 2.30 p.m. train from Aberystwyth had passed before the flood began to accumulate, but the train arriving at Aberystwyth about five had to remain at Llanilar. Mr. Lloyd, the stationmaster had promptly advised the officials at Aberystwyth of the accident and a train (with a break down gang) had been immediately sent off to meet the other. A temporary footbridge was thrown across the gap and the passengers and luggage were transhipped" or transferred with very little delay and inconvenience. The goods traffic was held over until Tuesday when early that morning the damage was temporarily made srood and traffic proceeded as usual. About a quarter of an hour later, when the flood was at its height, the dam below the bridge at the village was swept clean away, and the rush of water quickly undermined the foundation of the bridge. First the retaining wall. which was built about 25 years ago. gave way and the blocks of masonry from this wall formed a kind of dam and helped to force the water against and under the foundation. The crowd who had assembled at the approaches were warned to keep back, and no sooner had the people withdrawn to a place of safety than the bridge was seen to totter and began to crumble away until half of the bridge had been swallowed by the greedy torrent. Below we publish a graphic description from the mouths of eye witnesses which will be read with interest. Mr. John Morgan, who lives in the house nearest the bridge said between three and four o'clock on Monday afternoon he was attracted by a rumbling- noise resembling that of distant thunder, and upon going to the rear of his house to know the cause, saw the greatest flood he has ever witnessed in the river Adal during the last thirty years. The noise was caused by stones being carried down by the flood and hurled against the side of the bridge. He noticed a great upheaval of the water as of a gigantic spring at. the point where the large stones had been placed a few years ago for purposes of pinning the foundation of the bridge, and no doubt those stones now did more harm than good. Just before the collapse the roar and vibration was terrible. Had it not been for the retaining wall at the bottom of the garden of Glaanadl, matters might have assumed a most serious aspect, and he questioned if his house, or portions of it, would have escaped. Mr. W. Davies, Llettymoel, said, In common with others I went to see the flood and watch the bridge. It was inevitable the bridge should collapse after the dam below the bridge had been washed away, there was nothing then to prevent the undermining of the bridge and as soon as that took place the catastrophe was a foregone con- clusion. At the request of Mrs. Morris, I went to see how the retaining wall at the bottom of her garden was faring, and although the force of water there was far greater than at the bridge, the wall stood firm, thanks to the dam at the lower end of the wall. But for this wall the gardens and the adjacent stable and outhouses would most probably have received serious injury." Mrs. Morris, Glanadal, said she went after the tropical-like torrents had abated, to view the flood and bridge. The din was deafening and the vibration frightful. It was evident the dam or weir below the bridge had given way and the bridge itself was in imminent danger. Presently the retaining wall above the bridge fell in and dammed the water whose force and weight consequently against the bridge was irresistible. Mr. J. Morgan and Mr. W. Davies warned the people to keep off the approaches as the bridge was tottering and about to fall, and very soon their words proved true, fortunately, however, the collapse was gradual and the debris was swept away as it fell. She remembers such another flood between fiftv and sixty years ago when "Efail Dafydd y Gof" (D. Evans' smithy), which was situate where the retaining wall which first gave way on Monday stood, was washed away and when the first subsidence in the bridge took place, the second subsidence occurred about six years ago. After the former flood a thorough examination of the bridge was made and the dam below the bridge was the result of that inspection. This dam or weir consisted of five wide steps or terraces, the lowest of which was level with the bed of the river at that point. The weir has only once been repaired properly since. Both bridge and weir have been less looked after since the advent of the County Council regime ten years ago. Mr. W. Davies. grocer, whose house is nearly opposite that of Mr. J. Morgan, said, "I was at Aberystwyth when I heard the news and you can imagine my feeling when I tell you that my stable, &c., are situate on the bank of the river close to the bridge. The accident was the inevitable result of the dam being swept away. It was exactly what Mr. J. J. Morris predicted when the foundation of the bridge was pinned up a few years back and the dam not properly repaired at the same time. He was ridiculed for his warning then, but he has the best of the laugh now." Mr. J. J, Morris corroborated the statement made by Mr. Davies and said when he heard the news at Aberystwyth, he had the grim satisfaction that his prediction had been fulfilled. -_u_
CORWEN CHAIR EISTEDDFOD.
CORWEN CHAIR EIS- TEDDFOD. The Annual Chair Eisteddfod was held at Corwen on Monday, August 7th. Fine weather prevailed, and hundreds of persons poured into the town from all parts of the country. Great success has attended recent Eistedfodic meetings at Corwen, but this year, judging from the number of entries and the enormous number of people, all former successes were totally eclipsed. At 9 o'clock in the morning on the town square, a Gorsedd was held accord- ing to the custom of the Bards of Britain. At the termination of the usual ceremonies, the chief bard announced the Eisteddfod of 1900. The morning meeting commenced at 9-30. The President was O. M. Edwards, Esq., M.P. for Merioneth, who, during the course of the evening, gave an excellent Welsh address. The conductor for the day was Llifon, who, according to his wont, kept the audience in lively spirit-s throughout the day. The chief feature of the morning meeting was the Chief Choral Competition, nine choirs having entered for the £ 40. The pieces to be sung were (1) Halle- lujah Chorus" (Handel), and (2) Dyffryn Clwyd' (J. H. Roberts). The following are the names of choirs with the number in each, and names of con ductors:—Rhiwbrydir Choir, Blaenau Festiniog (90): Bridgewater Hall Choir, Manchester, (60), Mr. E. Edwards; Shrewsbury United Choir (72), Mr. Phillips Pendref Choir, Bangor (68), Mr. J. Williams Cefn Mawr Choral Society (118), Mr. G. W. Hughes; Rhos United Choir (110), Mr. Ellis; Bala and District Choir (120), Mr. G. Roberts; Oswestry United Choir (64), Mr. J. Roberts and Brynbowydd United Choir (78), Blaenau Ffestiniog. Mr. Tom Price, the musical adjudicator, in delivering the adjudication, said the competition had beon a splendid one. After enumerating the bad and good points of each choir, he said that the five best were numbers 3, 5, 7, 8, and 9, and of the five the best was the last. Other awards were as follows:—The best composed Contralto solo, 1st prize Pl ls., Prof. J. O. Jones, Wrexham. Trans- lation from Welsh to English, 1st prize 15s., Mr. R. Rablev Williams, Bettwsycoed. Stanza on The Beggar," 1st prize 5s., Gwilym Ceiriog, Llangollen. Quartette competition, singing a piece on first sight, 1st prize Pl Is., Mr. Wright and party, Cefn Mawr. Pencil Drawings., 1st prize 10s. 6d_, Mr. Tim. Evans, Llanbedr, 2nd 5s., Mr. Hugh Roberts, Blaenau Ffestiniog. The cywydd," Evening," 1st prize, Zl ls., Llwydiarth Mon, Llanfaircaereinion. Solo for children under 14, Dim ond Dcilen," 1st Gems of Welsh Melody, Miss Laura Anne Jones, Blaenau Festiniog. Carving in oak, Ivy leaves and berries," 1st prize 15s., Mr. J. D. Johnson, Man- chester, who also took 2nd prize. 7s. 6d. Mono- logue, The Agony of the Gross," 1st prize £ 1 10s. Mr. R. Thomas (Athran), Blaenau Festiniog. Scholarship to the value of £ 1Q, Miss Myfanwy Williams. Glyndyfrdwy. Tenor solo, "Gwalia Wen (John Penry), 1st 'prize iEl ls., Gutyn Arfon. Bass solo, 1str prize £ 1 Is., Mr. Arthur Davies, Cetn Mawr. J lie afternoon meeting was com- menced at 2 o'clock, with Dr. I A. Emrvs Jones, Manchester, as President. The awards were as folloNl-s:-Recital i,)ii, "Madawe ab Owain Gwynedd," Mr. Griitith Davies, Walton Liverpool. In the male voice cli. ir competition' four choirs had entered for the £ 15 15s. prize, and the silver plated cup for the conductor. The lalsarnan Male Voice Choir took the prize. Contralto solo. 0 rest in the Lord" (Elijah). First prize, £ 1 10s., Miss Parry, Porthmadoc Essay competition, "The development of Science and Art in the Nineteenth Century." First. £5. Rev. W W Lloyd. Bethesda. In' the juvenile choir competition, five choirs had entered The prize. £ 6 6s.. was divided between the Juvenile Choir, Dlaena u Festiniog and the Bala Juvenile Choir. The successful Bard for the chair and £6 was Rev. J. Jenkins (Gwili), South Wales. The ceremony of chairing the bard was gone through. Many bards gave addresses, and Miss Mav John sand the chairing song, and Miss Eessie Jones gave selections on the harp. In the Ladies' Choral Competition, the Cefnmawr Ladies Choir took the prize, four choirs having entered. In the evening a grand concert- was given, the following artistes taking part-, Miss May John, Miss Bessie Jones, Miss Bessie Evans, Mr. David Hughes, and Mr! Thomas Thomas. The committee are to be congratulated on their choice of such attractive subjects, and undoubtedly it proved an immense success, financially and otherwise.
Mr. PRICE of RHIWLAS'S ,.…
Mr. PRICE of RHIWLAS'S BOOK. f • A few days ago while walking alon0, a busy London Street, I was startled to "see a large placard in a shop window, headed by the announcement A dip in the Welsh Dee: Evidently, thought I, this is some new nostrum for the cure of rheumatism or the gout, or a patent medicine, which banishes some internal evil. But on looking closer I perceived that it was merely the adver- tisement of a book to be bought inside for the modest half-crown. When at last I saw the book, its curious title puzzled me, as it would puzzle any Welshman, Rulace, Ruedok, and the Valley of the Welsh Dee by an F.R.A." What could be the meaning of the words Rulace and Ruedok ? and what is an F.R.A. ? The first query was soon -iiis answered by a perusal of the first pages, for it was simply the attempt of an Englishman, having no knowledge of the Welsh Language to spell Rhiwlas, but I am stilj in darkness as to the meaning of F.R.A. The book is a curious medley of fact and fiction about the house of Rhiwlas, compounded by Ir. R. J. L. Price, the owner of that historic estate. It is a difficult matter to know how to deal with such a book, as it is a mixture of a family history and a penny guide book without the merits of either, for its history is fallacious, and its lack of completeness and general untrustworthiness make it useless as a guide book. As far as the printer and illustrator go, their work is beyond praise, as the book is tastefully printed and the illustrations well executed, in fact everybody with the exception of the author has done his work well. What qualifications Mr. R. J. L. Price has to write a book of this kind we cannot say, certainly he appears to know next to nothing of the house lie owns, and the family to which he belongs. What information he has is culled from two boöks; one of which is Camden's Brittannia (1610) a notably untrustworthy source, and the other is Dineley's Progress," recently published, from which lie makes very copious extracts. The facts drawn from these two sources have been served up to the reader, mixed with a mass of unnecessary and egotistical personal matter. The author's wife is a Hopwood, and this leads him to say that It is remarked of the family of Hopwood that the females, and for the matter of that, the males also have always been remarkable for their good looks, but of this fact the reader is as well able to judge as the writer." Unfortunately, however, he does not provide his reader with a likeness of his wife and son, so that point remains undecided. The author starts off in the penny novelette style of writing by giving the following reason for printing his book:—"I cannot but feel that touching the many and varied queries so constantly now received from the archfeologists, antiquaries, sportsmen, and men of letters and curiosity, who address themselves to me regarding the recent change in the spelling or lettering of the name of this my house, which was wont to be aforetime known as Rhiwlas, the ancient seat of the Price family, of which I am by the grace of God the present possessor, although but an unworthy descendant of my great ancestors, a more discursive and explanatory and categorical reply is their due, &c." It is a pleasure to find that the writer thinks himself unworthy of his ancestors, for it would be difficult to find in the whole range of Welsh history any names so distasteful to the Welshman as those of the founders of his house, Robert ap Rees, the apostate priest, and Ellis Prys, the jackal of the Tudors. The Price family was not without its heroes, but the author does not even mention their names, and probably he is ignorant of their very existence. We hear nothing of Thomas Price, the Welsh poet, said to be one of the three persons who first smoked tobacco in London, or of his cousin, Piers Gruffydd, the bold pirate, to mention no more. The days are long past however, when we could expect Welsh Squires to know anything of the history of Wales, but surely there are not many Welsh Squires, meagre as is their usual stock of knowledge, who could be guilty of writing such nonsense as this "The title Rulace, or Ruedok signifying Blue, or Green Bank (sic) is evidently not so ancient as the original orthography of Rhiwlas, but comes from the Norman French (sic), in which Britannia and similar works were originally composed (sic), in the seventeenth century (Ye Gods!) learning being scarce in those days, and the foreigner probably better educated than the true Briton." What an incomparable comic history of England Mr. Price could write; that is if he could by any means keep up to the standard of the above sentence. There are a great many things in this book to puzzle the unfortunate reader, e.g., the author speaks of his well-plenished library, and favours us with two photographs of the room, but books in spite of his statement appear to be at a discount there, since there is not one to be seen in the room which is chock full of plates, surely it must be a photograph of his china closet. The book includes some interesting notes on that ancient and worthy family, the Lloyds of Rhiwedog, of which Col. Evans-Lloyd is the representative to-day, though he is not, unfortunately, the owner of the old mansion. The Lloyds are un- doubtedly one of the most ancient families in Wales in this respect, being out and away of nobler lineage than the Prices of Rhiwlas. The family of Lloyd produced many famous men, and not least amongst them the Rev. Simon Lloyd of Bala, the friend of Thomas Charles, and the author of several excellent treatises in Welsh. The late Rev. John Foulkes Jones of Machynlleth, was also on the female side a descendant of the same family, and we cannot help thinking how much greater were the services of these men to Wales than those of their fox-hunting ancestors whose names are to-day forgotten. I would advise Mr. Price before he dashes into print again to get some competent scholar to revise his book (there should be plenty of intelligent young men at the BaIa, Grammar School who could give him a. helping hand), and if he thinks of bringing out another edition it would be wise to leave out the foolish and egotistical expressions in it, which do not speak much for the author's taste.