Papurau Newydd Cymru
Chwiliwch 15 miliwn o erthyglau papurau newydd Cymru
11 erthygl ar y dudalen hon
Aberystwyth Town Council.
Aberystwyth Town Council. A special meeting of the Town Council acting also as the Urban District Council of the Borough was held on Tuesday morning at the Council Chamber, Town Hall. The Mayor (Alderman C. M. Williams) occupied the chair, and there were also present Mr D. C. Roberts (ex-mayor), Alder- men W. H. Palmer, T. Doughton and Peter Jones, Messrs R. J. Jones, T. E. Salmon, J. P. Thomas, G. Croydon Marks, R. Peake, Evan H. James, J. Jenkins, 1. Hopkins, and E. P. Wynne, with A. Hughes (town clerk), C. Massey (assistant cler- H. L. Evans (borough accountant), and Rees Jo 3 (borough surveyor). EXCLUSION OF THE PRESS. After the minutes of the previous meeting 3 been read, Mr I. Hopkins said he objected to e resolution with regard to the exclusion of repc 's from committee meetings. That resolution, he 1- tended, was illegal, because the previous resolu In was still in force, not yet having been rescind d. He had called the attention of the Town Clerk to the matter, and he had also sent him a letter.! The Clerk explained that what was in the minutes was only a record. Mr Hopkins replied that it was against the law to pass such a resolution, and he proposed that it be struck out. The Clerk said that the effect of the resolution Was one thing, and the fact of the resolution having been passed and duly recorded in the minutes another thing. Mr Hopkins But you did put the resolution into effect by not sending the reporters notice. The Clerk: You must rescind the resolution. I cannot do it. Mr Hopkins: Well, the mover of the resolution ought to do it. When anyone wanted anything in the Council, it was always said "you must rescind the previous resolution," and why not do it in this Case. The Mayor: I am afraid the minutes must be Signed as they have been read. Mr Hopkins But you will sign unlawful minutes. The Mayor said they must be signed as a correct record of what took place. He could not say what Was the effect of the previous resolution. Mr Hopkins: It is down in the minutes. The Mayor I can't look that up now. The minutes were then adopted as a correct record of the business of the previous meeting. Mr Salmon again raised the question, and asked Whether the resolution in regard to the explusion of reporters from committees was in order. The Mayor: As far as I can say now it was in Order. But I have not a copy of the original resolution passed three or four years ago before me. Alderman Palmer I gave notice to put it on the agenda, and I supposed it was in order. The Mayor: As far as I am concerned it is in Order. Mr Salmon Is it necessary according to the Standing Orders to rescind a previous resolution when you pass a resolution similar to that adopted at the last meeting ? The Mayor: If you pass a resolution that re- porters be excluded, it is practically rescinding a previous resolution, and if there is a technical omission I have no doubt that if the matter is brought on again, those who voted for the resolu- tion at the last meeting will do so again. Mr Salmon Is it the usual custom ? Mr Hopkins: It is not in order, as you will see by the Standing Orders, which you ought to know .as Mayor of this Council. The Mayor: I know the standing orders, and try to act by them fairly. Mr. Hopkins: No, you carry them out to please yourself. (Cries of Order, order.) LEASE OF LAND. A communication was read from Mr Morris Jones, High-street, withdrawing his application for a lease of a piece of land in Rheidol-terrace, and asking the Council to cancel the terms given him onjgthe 3rd April last. A DISAPPOINTED APPLICANT. Mr. J. G. Rowe, Hendre Villa, Penglaise-road, wrote stating he felt disappointed at the decision the Council bad come to with regard to the lease of his house in North-parade, and was rather certain that if they had more knowledge of the facts regarding the conditions given him, which conditions he had tried to carry out, but had failed without demolishing the old building, be- sides a part of the walls at the back, his applica- tion would have been granted. Mr. Rowe also asserted that the interior of the house had been de- molished, although a member of the Council bad stated to the contrary. He also asked that a visit should be paid to the building, and understood that the Council bad a graduated scale, upon which, in case they did not see their way clear to give him site scale, he hoped they would give him some reasonable reduction. Alderman Palmer said he thought they con- sidered the whole matter at the previous meeting, and decided.that after giving a decision and the value they could not alter it. If the applicant did repairs other than what were required by the Council, he did them at his own responsibility. Mr Salmon thought it was a question which should be referred back to the Finance Committee. He saw there was a motion on the agenda to adopt a graduated scale, and on that ground he thought it should be referred back. Mr R. J. Jones seconded Mr Salmon's pro- position, that the matter be referred back, and this was carried. ASSOCIATION OF MUNICIPAL CORPORATIONS. The Clerk announced that the annual meetings of this Association were to be held in Dublin dur- Whit week, when the delegates would be entertain- ed by the Corporation of Dublin. He had received a communication from the secretary of the Lord Mayor of Dublin asking whether the Council in- tended sending representatives. The Mayor had informed him (the Town Clerk) that he intended attending the meeting, and this would be the first occasion upon which this Corporation would be re- presented at a meeting of this important body. The Mayor also suggested that the Town Clerk should attend the meeting, Mr Hughes having pro- mised, if he could arrange, to go as well. Mr R. J. Jones What about the expenses ? The Mayor: The Town Clerk and myself will have to defray those ourselves. The Clerk: It is one of those small privileges connected with the office. (Laughter.) The Mayor and Town Clerk were then appointed to attend the conference. REPAIRS IN UNION STREET. A letter was read from Mr Hugh Oliver applying for an extension of time to carry out the repairs necessary at his house in Union-street from November, 1900, to May 1901. The contract bad been let for the building, and the work tfould be proceeded with as soon as possible. Alderman Peter Jones pointed out that they had granted an extension of time in the case of the adjoining house, which would necessitate it in this case also. The Clerk announced that a petition bad been received from several residents in that street asking the Council to defer the granting of such applica- tion until the autumn rather than allow the work to be proceeded with during the season. which would mean a great loss to them as lodging house keepers. The application was deferred, and the Clerk was directed to intimate to Mr Oliver that the work was not to be proceeded with until he heard further from the Council. TIPPING ON THE BEACH. A lengthy communication was read from Mr W R. Hall, Victoria-terrace, complaining that not- withstanding the Council's resolution, lir. John Jenkins bad continued tipping quarry dehris until a few days ago on to the beach at the end of the promenade. He was now tipping at another part which did not belong to him, but he (tle, writer) feared that as soon as the Council meeting was over Mr. Jenkins would continue to cart on to the beach again. Considerable discussion followed, the Clerk stating he had communicated with Mr Jenkins .since the previous meeting of the Council. Mr Salmon asked why had the Council's "esolu- tion not been enforced. There was a talk about the town that a member of the Corporation could get more facilities than any other ratepayer. Mr Hopkins thought it was very ungentleroanly on Mr Jenkins' part to defy the Council in this way. The Mayor said there would have to be a specific xesclution before the Surveyor could take any .special action. Alderman Peter Jones said it seemed to him that practically the resolution had been carried into -effect, and the only question was that a few days' grace had been taken. Mr Jenkins bad been de- barred for about a month's time from taking the debris along the road owing to the Council carry- ing out certain work thereon, and if there had been .an extension beyond the prescribed time, they should take that into consideration. I Mr G. Croydon Marks: Is this not the position- not guilty, don't do it again ? (laughter).. The discussion then ended at this point, but later on. when another matter was being considered, Mr Salmon asked what was the decision in regard to the matter. What was the Council's legal position in the matter. Could they stop it, or had Mr Jenkins given his word that he would not do it again. The Mayor said Mr Jenkins had not been asked. He passed on to the next matter because no one had moved a resolution, and it was quite open for anyone between now and the next meeting to give notice of motion. Mr Salmon proposed that the Council give in- structions to the Surveyor to stop the carting of debris on to the beach from this date to the 1st October unless he said that he did not intend to tip any more, The Mayor said to be strictly legal, it would be necessary that such a resolution should be placed on the agenda. The surveyor could not take action unless he obtained specific instructions, and he was sorry to rule against Mr Salmon. Mr Hopkins considered that their officials should carry out their duty without coming to the Council on every small matter. The Surveyor knew his duty and ought to carry it out, and not come there and speak before them in favour of friends and against enemies and so on. The Mayor again reminded Mr Hopkins that this was a case in which the surveyor must have specific instructions. He certainly thought there ought to be a distinct resolution with regard to a matter of this importance, as.it might involve legal proceedings. Mr Hopkins: It shows we dont give power to our officials to do what is right. The discussion on this matter then ended. PROMENADE EXTENSION. The following letter was read from the registrar of the College May 5th. Dear Sir,—I beg to inform you that I submitted to the College Council at the meeting held yesterday, your letter contain- ing the resolution passed by the Town Council in reference to the proposed promenade extension, and as this resolution conveyed the assurance that nothing would be done in connection with the proposed promenade which would be detrimental to the College, the Council were satisfied with this assurance and passed neiti con the following:— That this Council accepts the resolution of the Town Council conveying the assurance that nothing will be done in connection with the proposed extension of the promenade detrimental to the College." FOOTPATHS PRESERVATION. A letter from the local branch of the Footpaths Preservation Society, signed by the local secret- aries (Messrs J. B. Jenkins and D. Thomas), was read drawing the attention of the Council to the following matters:-I, The footpath leading along the river Ystwyth to Tanycastell is in a bad con- dition, and they considered should be immediately attended to. 2, Two public paths bad recently been closed, one on Constitution Hill, which they had called the Council's attention to, and the other over the Alltwen, near Tanybwlch. They hoped the Council would protect the interest of the public and see that both were restored to the use of resi- dents and visitors. The promised seats on Pen- dinas had not yet been placed there. They under- stood there was no difficulty in the way, as the landlord was quite willing to have them placed there. They also suggested that the Council should appoint a committee to look after the interest of the public in the matter of footpaths within the district. They also wished to urge upon the Council to give their immediate attention to the above matters, as the season was close at hand. The communication was referred to the Public Works Committee. COUNCILLOR HOPKINS AND THE PRESS. The Clerk stated he bad received a letter from Mr 1. Hopkins drawing his attention to the fact that the resolution proposed by Alderman Palmer at the previous meeting to exclude reporters from all committee meetings, was quite out of order, as the previous resolution had not been rescinded, and asking him to send notice to the reporters of the dates of the committee meetings. Mr Hughes ex- plained that it was not in his province to sit in judgment upon the resolutions of the Council, and until that resolution was taken off the books he must act on it. He might on the same day have had a letter from Alderman Palmer giving him other instructions. Mr Hopkins: I propose that you look which of the two is in order, and let the Council know. The Clerk I shall be pleased to do that. PROPOSED OUTFALL SEWER. The Clerk reported he had on the previous day received a letter from the Board of Trade in refer- ence to the construction of the outfall sewer works below high water mark in the Aberystwyth Har- bour. The Board asked for an undertaking that in the event of the works being sanctioned the sewer- age should be discharged at ebb tide only, and not less than two hours before low water. The Clerk said he had sent the letter to the Surveyor, who in his reply said, there could be no objection-to the 1st clause, i.e., sewerage shall be discharged at ebb tide only. As to the latter clause, he considered it impracticable to have the sewer sealed up for eight hours out of the twelve hours' tide, inasmuch as the available storage is insufficient, and that the Tanycae and Trefechan branches were not provided with any storage. Therefore, he did not recom- mend the Council to give the undertaking, and he hoped the Board of Trade would sanction the sew- age to be discharged at all times when the tide was receding. Alderman T. Doughton said the main object was to have the force of the current after high tide. Mr R. J. Jones proposed that a communication containing the' comments of the Surveyor be for- warded to the Board of Trade, with a request that the matter be dealt with as soon as possible, as the season was fast approaching. This was seconded, and agreed to unanimously. VICTORIA TERRACE. Another letter was read from Mr. W. R. Hall complaining of the state of Victoria-terrace. The high tides, he said, were over at the end of March, but up to now-the middle of May- the road had not been properly made up, nor had the seats been put back. He also complained of the muddy state of the road, and said that he bad had to scrape up the mud himself, to prevent it being carried into the house. Macadan had recently been put down on the road, but had not been rolled, and had been left to be kicked about. Mr R. J. Jones I take it the surveyor will do his duty at Victoria-terrace the same as in other parts of the Terrace, Mr. Salmon I hope the surveyor is not going to give all his time to Victoria-terrace There are other streets in the town requiring attention as well. The Mayor: I take it the surveyor will give the same attention to Victoria-terrace as other parts. F APPLICATION. An application by Councillor J. P. Thomas for leave to place a bay window to a house belonging to him in Powell-street was referred to committee. PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE. This Committee reported that plans submitted by Mr. William Rowlands of proposed additions to his stables in Portland-street had been deferred. The committee recommended that the Medical Officer of Health be authorised to purchase two Jordan sunshine recorders for testing purposes. The report was adopted. FIRE BRIGADE CAPTAINCY. The Fire Brigade Committee recommended that an advertisement be inserted in the local papers inviting applications for the office of captain of the brigade, the same to be returnable on Monday, the 28th inst., and this was agreed to. ELECTRIC LIGHTING. The Public Lights Committee recommended the payment of a bill for E129 8s 3d to the Aberystwyth and Chiswick Electricity Supply Company for the quarter ending March, 1900, and this was approved of. GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE. This Committee reported that a letter had been received from Mr Denniss respecting the advertising of the town for the ensuing season, and the Committee were glad to find that the Cambrian Railways Company propose to increase the number of views of Aberystwyth and .locality in their carriages and those of other lines. The committee also reported that a letter was read from Mr Jack Edwards, soliciting an increase to the weekly pay of the town band, and the committee recommended an increase of P.2, or LIZ a week instead of F,10, to commence on the 14th July and continue to the end of season. As to the band programme, the committee reported that the matter was considered, but deferred, in order that che Chairman might be able to obtain further particulars. The committee had also instructed the Borough Surveyor to attend the meetings of the National Fire Brigade Union at Cardiff on the 10th inst., and that the sum of L4 4s be voted to defray his expenses. Mr J. P. Thomas remarked in connection with the latter matter, that he did not think it was required, now that their captain was going to retire. It was simply a waste of money to send him there. The Mayor It is over now, Mr Thomas. Mr Hopkins: Suppose I propose that the members who voted for this should be asked, to pay. (Laughter.) Mr J. P. Thomas: I second that. The Mayor: It is quite open for you to do so. The report was then adopted. PROPOSED NEW BYELAWS. The General Purposes Committee reported that the Town Clerk had been instructed to take the necessary steps for submitting to the Local Govern- ment Board the amended bye-laws for their ap- proval. Mr I. Hopkins desired to know whether those bye-laws were not to be submitted to the Council before being sent to the Local :Government Board. He knew nothing about them, nor who had made them. The Clerk, however, assured Mr Hopkins that they would come before the Council before being sent to the Board. ADVERTISING. A letter was read from Mr Denniss stating they were advertizing somewhat extensively in -1 Man- chester Faces and Places," and this month's issue would contain some interesting matter about Aber- ystwyth, and thought it would be an advantage if a paragraph were added, a copy of which was appended, to the Council's advertisement with reference to through carriages. Mr Denniss had also seen Mr Reynolds, of the Birmingham Adver- tising Agency, and he approved of the arrange- ments made by him for advertizing the town. The General Purposes Committee reported having also at their meeting on the 5th May last carefully considered the advertisement of the town for the coming season, and the matter was further discussed and considered, subject to a formal con- tract being entered into providing especially for the space given for the advertisement and the position in which it. shall appear in the several newspapers, the Committee recommend that the advertising be entrusted to the said Agency which J is prepared to insert the advertisements of last I year in the seven newspapers at a cost butjlittle in excess of that which was incurred by the Council last year, notwithstanding an increased number of insertions, and in an additional number of news- papers. Inasmuch as the Cambrian Railways Company have for some years undertaken the bulk of the advertising arrangements and have kindly undertaken to telegraph the weather reports, your Committee recommend that the Company be further instructed before the above recommendation is acted upon, and that they be asked to continue the weather report to the various newspapers. Then followed a list of the newspapers. The Committee were shown a specimen souvenir and guide of a fashionable watering place and recommended the Council to accept the offer of the said Agency to publish an official guide containing twelve views of the town, etc., to be first approved, and twelve pages of letterpress to be also approved, and to be called A Souvenir of Aberystwyth," at a cost of L10 per annum for the next three years, the pub- lishers delivering to the Council 1,000 copies yearly gratis, for distribution, the remainder of the ex- pense of this publication to be defrayed by those who advertize therein. Your Committee further recommend that the approval of the views from photographs and printed matter for insertion in the Souvenir be entrusted to the Mayor, Councillor Wynne, and the Town Clerk. As to the official guide, Mr R. J. Jones proposed as an amendment that the number be increased to 1,500 atla cost of £15. Mr Wynne seconded, and the amendment was adopted. FINANCE COMMITTEE'S REPORT. Alderman Palmer proposed the adoption of this committee's report which recommended the pay- ment of bills amounting to £ 494 3s 5d. It also recommended that in cases of renewal of leases applied for after the 5th December last, where the terms and conditions imposed by the Council include demolition of existing buildings, either wholly or in part, it is desirable that a basis should be arrived at, and after consideration the committee recommended that in addition to existing abatement of 15 per cent from rateable value, the following abatements from rateable value should be made Where total demolition of buildings is involved abatement not exceeding 15 per cent; where partial demolition only of building is required an abatement varying from 5 per cent tc not exceeding 10 per cent, according to the extent of demolition. Upon this, Mr Salmon said he wished to move an amendment. He thought more careful consdera- tion should be given as regards the limit of abate- ment allowed on rateable value applications for renewal of leases. He thought 15 per cent was most unreasonable after the discussion carried on in the Finance Committee. And he was under the impression then that what they would have was a graduated scale, and take every application on its merits. He thought it would be most unfair to such applicants as those from Poplar-row, Skinner- street, Cambrian-street, and other streets that they should be treated the same as Terrace-road, the Terrace, Portland-street or North-parade. His amendment was that they should have a limit, but should treat each application on its merits. Mr Hopkins seconded, and said if they went on as proposed, they would have monuments like that in Terrace-road in every part of the town. Alderman Peter Jones said he would like to see the 15 per cent which it was proposed to fix in case of total demolition increased to 25 per cent, and that would obviate stipulating the other portion of the committee's recommendation. He hardly thought that 15 per cent would give them sufficient elasticity. If Mr Salmon would propose, where total demolition of buildings was involved, a maximum of 25 per cent, be would support him. Mr R. J. Jones: Do you consider 25 per cent would be sufficient in all cases 1 Alderman Peter Jones 15 per cent in some in- stances would be rather small, but I think a max- imum of 25 per cent would meet all cases. It would help them a lot to have a limit, or they would have constant wrangling in each case. The Mayor remarked that that was what the committee felt strongly. Mr J. P. Thomas thought 25 per cent would be very fair indeed, but how would it work in the event that it was decided to rescind the existing abatement of 15 per cent. The Mayor said that they would be quite open to receive that at any time. Mr Salmon then withdrew his motion in favour of Alderman Peter Jones' suggestion, which was eventually accepted. The applications of Mrs Capt Doughton, Bath- street; Mrs Edwards, 12, Cambrian-street;- Messrs Hosking and Miller, 3, Brewer-street; and Miss Hughes. 11, Northgate-street, for renewals, and which had been granted on the existing basis, were then referred back to the Finance Committee for consideration under the new scale. LEASE OF LAND. The Finance Committee recommended that the application of Mr Isaac Rees for a lease of a piece of ground in South-road, for the erection of a work- shop, be granted for 75 years. Alderman Peter Jones said the Council should bear in mind the application of Mr Evan Edwards for this land, as a lessee under the Corporation. The Council had promised to give him the first offer, as be intended putting up such an erection as to be in character with the adjoining houses that he had built. He suggested that the matter should be referred back, so that Mr Edwards could be communicated with. The suggestion was unanimously accepted. TENDERS FOR PRINTING. This matter had again been considered by the Finance Committee, who now recommended that the lowest tenders be accepted. Alderman Palmer (the chairman) said that out of the four contracts three were awarded to one printer and the other to the Welsh Gazette. Mr D. C. Roberts said Alderman Palmer was in error, and handed him the statement showing the figures. Alderman Palmer, having examined it, said the figures had been altered since the committee meet- ing. The Accountant explained that the Committee decided to accept the lowest tender in each case, and on going through the figures again that was the result. Mr Salmon then proposed that the tenders be re- ferred back to the Finance Committee for the pur- pose of having the names of the persons j sending in the lowest tenders printed on the agenda E He was in the dark, and did not know who was the | lowest. j Mr D. C. Roberts said the Borough Accountant j had worked it out. The Mayor said he had taken exception to what the Finance Committee did, and voted against it, Unfortunately, the Council sent out no conditions when applying for tenders, and in the case of other work it was clearly specified that the Council were open to accept any or all the items. At the committee he also objected on the ground of the exceptionally heavy prices charged for the same goods without tender. Alderman Peter Jones interposed, and said what was referred to the committee was to examine the tenders, and not have an inquiry into the reports for the last few years. The Mayor replied that he was not going back to any length of time, but he wished to show that they had not been treated as they ought to be. Mr Peake objected to the Mayor dissecting the tenders. The Mayor, proceeding, said he took another ground at the Finance Committee, and having regard to the prices now charged for the same goods he took exception to the tenders of the firm in question altogether. Last year they paid £3 15s for less than 2,000 ballot papers. They invited tenders, and the same firm offered to print 2,000 ballot papers for 31s 6d, Even that price was not low, for he found that another firm of printers quoted 22s 6d. Mr Peake: That is what I mean; you are dis- secting. Mr Croydon Marks: On a point of order, will ,you read the conditions. The Mayor: Unfortunately, there were no conditions. Mr D. C. Roberts I would have no objection to to take them on the basis you suggest if it was stated in the contract, but I think on this occasion we are compelled to accept the lowest in each case. The Mayor further stated that there were further | items. They were charged I2s. 6d. for certain J notices without tender, whereas now the same | thing was offered to them for 6s. In another case | they had been charged 10s., but the tender price was ons. 6d., and in yet another case 10s 6d., whereas the tender was only 3s. Taking an aggregate, the bill before came to Zll 3s 6d., whereas the tender price was Z5 2s 6d. In another item they were charged £9 16s for 3,355 circulars, but they bad a tender now for 7,000 circulars at iP,3 8s. He hardly thought it was the way to treat the Council, and it was a question whether they deemed it justifiable to give their contracts to this firm or not. Mr D. C. Rrberts said he did not think it was quite fair to take up one case in tke way the Mayor bad done. The Mayor replied that he had 30 more he could enumerate. After deliberating on the matter at some further considerable length, Mr G. Croydon Marks proposed | that the question of tendering for printing be referred back, and that new tenders be invited, and that the persons tendering be informed that the tenders would be accepted in items. This was seconded, and carried by eight votes to six, the committee's recommendation being, therefore, rejected. THE NEW TOWN HALL. The amended plans of the new Town Hall were submitted by the architect (Mr. T. E. Morgan), these embodying the suggestions with regard to the improved Council Chamber and the new art rooms
---------PONTRHYDFENDIGAID.
PONTRHYDFENDIGAID. APPOINTMENT.—Mr Morgan, Bryneithinog, has been appointed assistant overseer for the parish of Caron Upper, in place of the late Mr. Wm. Williams. MEMORIAL SERMOXS.- Two prominent gentle- men have recently died in this locality in the per- sons of Mr William Williams, Berthgoed, and Mr John Rees, Bont. On Sunday evening in last week, the Rev J. Bowen preached memorial sermons at the Calvinistic Methodist Chapel, when there was a large congregation. The death of both gentlemen leaves a great gap to be filled, they having spent useful and honourable lives. Both were deacons of the Calvinistic Methodist Chapel, William Williams being also assistant overseer of the parish. MARWOLAETH BRODOR.—Ar ol hir gystudd a graddol waelu bu farw y brawd William James yn ei gartref yn Ottawa, Waukesha Co,, Wiscousin bore dydd Gwener, Ebrill 6, 1900. Ganwyd Mr James yn Pontrhydfendigaid, Sir Aberteifi, America, yn 1826. Ymfudodd i America yn 1848, ac ymsefvdlodd yn Ottawa i ddiweddu ei oes. Yr oedd yn adnabyddus i lawer o bobl, a chwith fydd genym ar ei ol. Yr oedd yn ddymunol, cymeradwy a charedig fel cymydog yn anwyl gan ei deulu; yn Gristion selog, ac yn barchus gan bawb. Dydd Llun, y 9fed, ymgasglodd tyrfa luosog iawn yn ngbyd i dalu y gymwynas olaf iddo, llawer o wahanol fanau, yn Gymry ac yn Saeson, llawer o honynt o bellder ffordd, sef o Milwaukee, Waukesha ac o bob rhan o ardal Gymreig Waukesha. Gosodwyd y gweddillion i orwedd yn mynwent Jerusalem yn ymyl ei anwyl briod, yr hon a'i rhagflaenodd ddeuddeg mlynedd yn ol i'r mis hwn. Yn oedd Mr James Jyn un o un ar ddeg o blant, ac o'r teulu lluosog hwn nid oes ond un, sef Mrs John Roderick, o arclal Jerusalem wedi ei gadael i alaru ar ei ol. Ganwyd iddo ef a'i briod chwech o blant, un o'r rhai a fu farw yn blentyn. Un arall, Jane, sef Alrs D. H. Moses, a fu farw rai blynyddau yn ol, a'r pedwar a adawyd mewn galar ar ei ol ydynt William C. James, Wales; David E. James, Ottawa; Mrs Mary A. Hooson, Milwaukee; a Mrs Kathryne Jones, Dous- man.— O'r Drych.
LAMPETER.
LAMPETER. SUNDAY SCHOOL.—The Unitarians of the dis- trict held their annual festival at Capel y Groes, Llanwrien, on Monday last. There was a large gathering, and the different schools went through their work in a praiseworthy manner. ST. PETER'S CHURCH.—it is intended to hold a sale of work here on the 26th an 27th June next with the object of procuring a new lectern and other things for the parish church, repairing St. Mary's Church, Maestir, and to make a grant to the S. P. G. Society in celebration of its bi-centenary. CARNIVAL.—The Lampeter Cycling Club have decided to hold their second annual carnival in connection with the club on Wednesday next, when prizes will be awarded as follows:—(1) For best decorated bicycle; (2) best fancy costume (ladies); (3) ditto, (gents); (4) best comic costume; (5) best group. The following will be the judges:— Mrs. Bebb, S.D.C.; Mrs. R. Williams, S.D.C.; Mrs. T. M. Evans, Tanybryn Villa; Mr. D. Tivy Jones (mayor) Dr. E. C. Davies, Millfield; and Mr. J. E. Lloyd, solicitor. HIGHER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL MINUTE.— Since the appearance of the new minute published by the Board of Education, Mr Thomas Lloyd, clerk to the School Board, has had a long corres- pondence with Mr Vaughan Davies, M.P. for Cardiganshire, the substance of which was em- bodied in the resolution passed by that board which appears below.—Mr Lloyd, in reply, received a letter from Mr Vaughan Davies stating that be had sent his letters to Sir John Gorst, from whose secretary he had received the following letter which was enclosed :—" Board of Education, May 10th, 1900. Dear Sir, I am desired by Sir John Gorst to say that he will give the most careful consideration to the points raised in the letters that you have shown him from the Lampeter School Board concerning the Higher Elementary Minute, but that as that minute is now in force he thinks it hardly likely that it will be modified at present, in the directions suggested by your corres- pondent, P. T. MORANT.From this letter and the recent debate it appears very clear that no modifications will be made either in the Code or the minute. As far as Cardiganshire and the whole of South Wales (except Glamorganshire) are concerned, the minute will be a dead letter. SCHOOL BOARD. The monthly meeting of the Board was held on the 10th instant. Present-Rev. E. Evans (vice- chairman) presiding; Messrs. J. Ernest Lloyd, John Jones, and Thomas Lloyd (clerk). BYE-LAWS. It was resolved that the question of altering the existing bye-laws be adjourned until after the Elementary Education Bill, 1900, has been disposed of, and that the question of making an additional bye-law in view of the provisions of the Elementary Education Act (School Attendance), 1893, Amend- ment Act, 1899, be adjourned to the next meeting. The clerk was directed to ask the Board of Educa- tion whether the adoption of the model additional bye-law (No. 2) will necessitate the same formality as were required to enact the original bye-laws. I ADDITIONAL PROBATIONER. It was decided to appoint an additional proba- tioner for St. Peter's School at an adjourned meeting on the 17th instant. CURRICULUM OF THE RURAL SCHOOL. meeting on the 17th instant. CURRICULUM OF THE RURAL SCHOOL. The circular letter of the Board of Education on this subject was considered. The letter called attention to the importance of making the education I in agricultural districts more consonant with the en- vironment of the scholars than is now usually the case, and it was recommended that teachers should lose no opportunity of giving their scholars an in- telligent knowledge of the surroundings of ordinary rural life and of showing them how to observe the processes of nature for themselves, and it was sug- gested that the teachers should as occasion offers take the children out of doors for school walks at the various seasons of the year and give simple lessons on the spot about animals in the fields and farmyards, about ploughing and sowing, about fruit trees and forest trees, about birds, in- sects and flowers and other objects of interest. The lessons thus learnt out of doors could be afterwards carried forward in the schoolroom by reading, composition, pictures, and drawing. It was resolved that the recommendations con- tained therein be adopted, and that each of the head teachers submit to the next meeting of the Board a programme of school walks and objects of instruction. SALE OF INTOXICATING LIQUOR TO CHILDREN. Resolved that a petition in favour of a Bill pro- hibiting the sale of intoxicating liquor to children below the age of 14 years be sent to the House of Commons.-Tlie Clerk was directed to send the resolution to Mr Vaugban Davies, M.P. HIGHER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL MINUTE. The Clerk having read the correspondence which had taken place between him and Mr Vaughan Davies, M.P., on the subject, the following resolu- tion was pnssed :—That in the opinion of this Board it is desirable that an additional Regulation should be made providing that in districts where there is no Higher Elementary School" and where the population is insufficient to warrant the estab- lishment of a separate Higher Elementary School the upper section of ordinary elementary schools may be recognised. The Clerk was directed to embody the resolution in a memorial addressed to the Education Department and to send the same to Sir John Gorst the vice-president of the Council. SCHOOL ATTENDANCE. The Clerk's return showed the following per- centages of attendance for the past month. Boys' 81, girls' 80, infants 89, mixed school, 77: total 83. TREASURER'S ACCOUNT. The Treasurer's book showed receipts since last month of P,88 17s 4d from the Treasury, and a balance of R-251 8s 7d in band.
TALYBONT.
TALYBONT. OBITUARY.—We regret to record the death which took place on Wednesday in last week of Mrs James, wife of the Rev. D. Lloyd James, D.D., rector of Pont Robert, Montgomeryshire. She was a native of this place. Mrs. James appeared to be in the' enjoyment of her usual health until Tuesday week, but while at tea on that day she was seized with paralysis and died the following morning without recovering consciousness. Mrs James, who was sixty years of age, is survived by her husband and three sons, viz., the Rev D. H. James, B.A., curate of Merthyr Vale, W. Walter James, of Jesus College Oxford, and Mr. Bertie James of Pont-Robert, and a daughter who is the wife of the Rev. J. D. Timothy, B.A., Llangwm, Haverfordwest, formerly curate of Borth. The remains were in- terred in Pont Robert churchyard on Saturday last, when the service was conducted by the Revs. S. Reed, R.D., Rector of Llangyniew; and J. R. Robert, M.A., Llantihangel, Montgomeryshire. Amongst the large number in the funeral were Mr. Joseph Davies, solicitor, Aberystwyth, and the Rev. William Jones, Mcifod; Mr. C. Karington, J Llanerfyl; Mr. D. C. Jones, Llangadfan; and Mr; D. Evans, Dolauog. At the grave-side the hymn "0 fryniau Caersalem was sung to the tune of Crugybar.
BORTH.
BORTH. PERSONAL.—Major Taunton, J.P., of Brynellt n, has been commissioned to an important post in Malta, whither he will proceed in the summer. REMOVAL.—Much to the regret of his numerovs friends Dr Jones has left for Llanfihangel, when he will reside permanently as soon as his new house is completed. He will, however, be in regular attendance at Borth, and will have his headquarters at Capt. Jones' late of Manchester House.
GLASPWLL.
GLASPWLL. LITERARY AND COMPETITIVE MEETING.—On Friday evening last an interesting literary and competitive meeting was given at the Congre- gational Chapel, Glaspwll. Dr. E. D. Rees (ap Gwyddon), Machynlleth, presided over a large audience, and did his work in a creditable manner. The programme was as follows :—Address, by the Chairman; recitation. Hymn 522 from the Caniedydd," 1, Maylona Rowlands; 2, Mary L. Griffiths; dialogue, Oswald Samuel and Maglona Rowlands; solo, "Glyncollen," prize divided between Maglona and Samuel Rowlands; best description of an object, viz., a specimen of the Atlantic cable, in the possession of Mr Jones, Glanmeddin, winner, John D. James, Cefncoch; spelling competition, J. D. James and O. Rowlands, equal concertina solo, Mr Geo. Marshall, Caersaer; unpunctuated reading, best, Mr Hugh Owen, Cwmrhayadr; duett, Messrs R. Walters and G. Jones-, dialogue, Masters O. and S. and Miss Maglona Rowlands; singing competition Brynaman," John D. James; recitation, "Pasta fawr Llangollen," Mr Hugh Owen; challenge solo competition, best Mr Evan Morgan, Taliesini; reading portion of the Scriptures, best Miss Annie Morris, Tynyfedw. During the evening, the Chairman read an amusing poem describing the victories of the British in the present war, and predicting that the British flag would be flying over Pretoria within a short time. The gathering concluded with a song, •' Bwthyn bach melyn fy nhad, sung by Mr Evan Morgan. The adjudi- cators were the chairman and the Rev Wnion Evans on the recitations, and Mr E. Morgan Jones, Machynlleth, on the music.
ABERDOVEY.
ABERDOVEY. OLD ABERDOVEY.—Mr G. Williams does well to have on sale the admirable reproductions of engraviags of old Aberdovey, which are now on his counters. Visitors and natives can now see what the town looked like in 1834, before the church was built, or the railroad came along. One view shows the old road along the shore from Machynlleth, traces of which are stil visible over some parts of the well-worn rocks. In another little peep we get the Bath House,' now the abode of the flourishing Institute, which would confer a lasting boon upon the place if it could see its way to acquire and frame a series of these reprints and hang them in its room. CRICKET.—The ground by the station is now in good order, and its turf in playing condition. Two games were being played on it last Saturday afternoon; the sound of the leather on the willow being pleasant to the ear. FLORICULTURE.—The rocks round Craig-y-don, the residence of Mrs Howell, are just now bright with some thousands of blooms of various coloured wall flowers, which have sown themselves, and increased year after year to such a pleasing degree as to leave few ledges unoccupied by their welcome and sweet-perfumed blooms. The purple alyssum too, in the grounds, is now also in magnificent bloom. THE INSTITUTE.—The Secretary has received the welcome news that Philip Sidney will place his services at the Committee's call for another lecture in aid of the library, during the coming season. The subject will be Old Welsh Punishments." SHIPPING.—The arrivals during the week are as follows: Schooner Ellen Beatrice" and Pluvier" in ballast, S.S. Telephone" with general cargo from Liverpool and S.S. Emerald' with cement from London. The Ketch "Jessamine" sailed on Friday with a cargo of slates for Gloucester, and the schooner Catherine" arrived on Tuesday evening. THE COMMON.—Messrs. Solomon Andrews and Son, who a few months ago bought from Mr. J. Hughes Jones, certain rights in the common, have put up notice boards prohibiting the removal of sand and gravel therefrom without permission, and also prohibiting any cattle to be allowed to stray on the land in question. Mr. Andrews visited here last week, and left the Deeds and Plans of his purchase, at the Medical Hall for the perusal of per- sons interested. In the words of the chairman of the Common committee, the public have enjoyed the undisputed privilege from time immemorial by day and by night" of using the land as Common, and L there is consequently a feeling against being now deprived of such a privilege.
TOWYN.
TOWYN. FAIR.—The annual May Fair was held on Monday last. There was a good show of cattle and horses. Buyers of cattle were scarce and prices low. Several horses changed hands at high prices. C.M. CHAPEL.—On Monday evening the Rev. Jenkins, New Quay, preached a powerful sermon at the Methodist chapel to a large congregation. The reverend gentleman has been invited by the members of the chapel to become their pastor. NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN AGRICULTURE.—AS the result of the examination held at the Yorkshire College, Leeds, under the joint auspices of the Royal Agricultural Society of England, and the Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland, Mr. John Roberts, Perfeddnant, a student of the University College of Wales, Aberystwyth (passed in order of merit) both divisions of the examina- tion, and has been awarded the national diploma in the science and practice of agriculture. Mr. Roberts is to be warmly congratulated upon his success, considering that, out of a large number of candidates only very few satisfied the examiners. Mr. Roberts has added to this success by passing another examination, that of the Professional Associateship of the Surveyors' Institution in Land Agency. CRICKET CLUB.—A meeting in connection with this Club was held on Monday evening last under the presidency of Mr T. W. Stealey. It was agreed that the following members should represent Towyn against the Machynlleth team on Saturday next:— Messrs Chidlaw Roberts, T. W. Stealey, J. F. Edwards, Capt. Preston, R. I. P. Daniel, Lewis Pugh, William Jones, E. C. Owen, J. D. Latimer, R. Owen and R. J. White. It was decided that an extra gratuity be given to the groundsman, Mr Tom Hughes, tor having kept the ground in excellent condition during the last season. Mr J. Owen gave notice of motion that at the next meeting he would move a resolution to the effect that in future a nominal charge be made on all persons who view the matches.
BARMOUTH.
BARMOUTH. THE WEATHER.—During the past few days the temperature has fallen greatly, and the weather equalled that of February. There are a good many visitors staying at the principal hotels, and before the end of thij month several large contingents are expected. IMPORTANT SALE OF FUR-NITURE.As will be seen in our advertising columns, Messrs Daniel, Son, and Meredith, auctioneers, will conduct this day at the Arches an important sale of new and very antique Household Furniture, including rare pieces of old oak goods, new and second-hand pianos, organ, harmoniums, bicycles, and various other valuable articles. ACCIDENT. On Wednesday evening in last week, as Mr Wm. Owen, Talydon Restaurant, was cleaning the outside of his parlour window, the step-iauaer on wmcn ne stooct gave way. This caused him to be precipitated half way through the window, with the result that he sustained several cuts from the broken glass. The accident, however, did not prove as serious as was at first expected. Mr Owen is now progressing favourably. PERSONAL.—The Rev Ellis Jones Williams, missionary, is, after some months at home on furlough in consequence of ill health, returning this week to the sphere of his old mission field in South Africa, where he has represented the Wesleyan denomination for nearly twenty years, and like many other Welsh missionaries has been very successful in his work. On the 26th inst., he expects to sail with a part of his family from Southampton in the S.S. Gascow" for East London, where she is due to arrive on the last day of June from there he will have to:travel inland for several days till he reaches Bethlehem, Orange Free State, where he and the family are to be stationed tor tne present. xlis eldest son is receiving his education at Kingswood School, Bath. Mr. Williams has left at Barmouth an aged widowed mother and a sister. On Sunday morning at the Wesleyan chapel he delivered a farewell address, and although brief, it was very effective, and attentively listened to. TRACTION ENGINE IN DIFFICULTIES. About mid-day on Thursday last, while a traction engine and two lorries, the latter being loaded with goods from the s.s. Telephone, was proceeding to Dyffryn, it met with a series of mishaps near Hendremynach. The main road at this point is rather narrow, and as the new sewerage works are being carried out along there at present, vehicular traffic is consider- ably inconvenienced. It therefore required some skilful manoeuvering on the part of the driver to clear the obstruction, but in this he failed, a wheel of one of the lorries slipping into the channel. It took some time to extricate the wheel, and when another start was made the same fate befel the engine. Owing to its enormous weight, a consider- able time elapsed before it could be placed on the road again, when it resumed its journey. No damage was sustained by either engine or lorries, and luckily there was no great inconvenience caused by the suspension of traffic. URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL. The monthly meeting of the Council was held on Tuesday. The members present wei e Messrs John Richards, Captain E. Richards. Richard Roberts, lorn Abraham, Edward Williams, D. E. Davies. H. Wynne Williams, with Owen Jones (deputy rierk) J. Adams (surveyor), Dr. J. A. Hughes (medical I officer), and Mr. Owen (rate collector). On the proposition of Mr. Tom Abraham, and seconded by Mr. J. Richards. Captain E. Richards wa. voted to the chair. I Arising from the minutes, Mr. Abraham enquired it any answer had been received from Mr. D. Davies with regard to the abating of nuisances "r. ouuipiai nea or. The fieputv clerk: No, but the surveyor has something to say on it* On the proposition of Mr. H. W. Williams, aDd seconded by Mr. Abraham, it was agreed that the matter be taken in committee. Mr. Abraham again enquired if the erecting of a wall at the back of a house on the Marine Parade was being proceeded with. The deputy clerk said that the chairman had the matter in hand. The General Purposes committee and surveyor's reports were read and adopted. THE LAMP POST. Mr. Abrahamjasked who was to blame for the breaking of the lamp and pillar near Hendre- mynach. pyg&g The surveyor replied that both were broken by vehicles, the property of Mr. J. H. Davies, and he could not see that Mr Davies should be blamed. as the road had been cut, thus making- it very narrow for a vehicle to pass. The matter then dropped. THE COUNCIL'S SHED. Mr. D. E. Davies proposed that the work of erecting a shed for the council be let by contract, as he thought the surveyor had already enough work in hand. The matter was then referred to the General Purposes Committee. STREET OBSTRUCTION. On the proposition of Mr. H. W. Williams it was agreed that the attention of Sergeant Breeze be drawn to obstructions now caused in the streets. MEDICAL OEFICER'S REPORT The Medical Officer reported that the health and the sanitary state of the town during the past month was good. He wished to call the Council's attention to the zinc of the urinal in Cambrian-street, and also to a heap of manure which lay in an enclosed place at Llyndu. The Surveyor said that he had a few notices on hand from the Local Government Board to be distributed among all horse proprietors, and cautioning them to remove all manure within a fortnight. Mr. H. W. Williams proposed that notices be dis- tributed among all horse owners to remove manure within a fortnight. Mr Abraham seconded, and it was carried. ACKNOWLEDGMENT. A letter was read from Major Best acknowledg- ing the receipt of the Council's letter, and approv- ing, of the appointment of Sergt Breeze as inspector of bathing machines &c. A COMPLAINT. A letter was read from Mr Ellis Morris complain- ing that since the water tap at his house bad been connected with the main he received no water at all. He thought that the mischief had been caused by the Council's workmen. On the proposition of Mr J. Richards, and seconded by Mr Abraham, it was agreed that the Surveyor should consult with Mr Morris, and to tell him that if the mischief was caused by the work- men the council would be liable for the expense of re-fitting, but if not Mr Morris himself would have to bear the expense. FINANCE COMMITTEE. The Finance Committee's report was read, and several bills were recommended for payment. APPOINTMENT OF MEDICAL OFFICER Mr D. E. Davies pressed, and Mr Rd. Roberts seconded, and it was unanimously agreed that Dr J. A. Hughes be re-appointed the Council's Medical Officer of Health for the ensuing three years. Dr Hughes then thanked the Council for his appointment. THE MALE VOICE CHOIR. Mr Phillip Jones, on behalf of the Barmouth Male Voice Choir, said that during the last season the choir were treated very badly. They had a programme drawn out by the Council's clerk, and everyone thought they did only what was right, but instead of that, they were taken before the magis- trates for obstruction. On the programme it stated that at the time the choir were due to be on the Marine-parade, the Magnets were supposed to be near Porkington-terrace. The members had now heard that each party were to be 250 yards apart, whether on the Parade or elsewhere, and he wished to have some explanation on the matter. Mr J. Richards said tha.t whatever party was first on the Parade, that party would have the privilege of using the Parade first. Mr Phillip Jones: But very often the choir gets an invitation to sing before York House and the Marine Hotel when the Magnets are on the Parade. Mr J. Richards then proposed that the choir should pitch their stands on Monday and Friday evenings, and that a member of both parties should attend a meeting of the Council. This was agreed to.
DOLGELLEY.
DOLGELLEY. PERSONAL.—Mrs. Dr. Edward Jones and Miss Jones, are spending a short holiday at Aberystwyth, and are staying on the Victoria Marine-parade. DRUNK AND DISORDERLY.—At a Special Sessions held on Monday, Ann Morris, of Towyn (an old offender), was charged by P.S. Owen with having been drunk and disorderly on the previous Saturday evening. Prisoner pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 14 days' hard labour. MAY FAIR.—The annual May Fair was held on Yriday last in line weather, The event is a popular one in the district, and the attendance was ex- ceedingly large. The prices realised for cattle were very satisfactory, and a large number were sold. FORTHCOMING MARRIAGE. — A marriage has been arranged, and will shortly take place, between Charles Herbert Richards, Oxfordshire Light Infantry, youngest son of Mr Richard Meredyth Richards, of Caerynwch, and Zoe, daughter of Captain E. Lyons Green, R.N., of Scarborough. WHAT'S IN A NAME ?—Talbot Hotel is no more What was formerly known by that name will be henceforth known as the Einon Hotel. Mr R. C. Evans having, to borrow a current martial nhrase entered and taken possession, now waves the ensign of his native soil over his new possession. Mr Evans has done some excellent improvements and they should win him much support. PURCHASE OF A FACTORY. Mr Solomon Andrews, trading under the style of Messrs J. Meyrick Jones, Ltd., has just purchased the Aber- neint Factory, the property of the late Miss' Griffith, Crosby Buildings. Mr Andrews, whose enterprise has become proverbial, has effected the most modern improvements in other factories in the town, and if similar improvements are made in the Aberneint Factory, it will prove an acquisition to the upper part of the town. COUNTY COUNCIL ELECTION.—There will be no election for the vacancy in the Southern Ward of the town caused by the election of Mr. William Hughes to the seat of an Alderman, as Mr. J. Meyrick Jones (Mayor) has been declared to have been duly elected member without a contest. Mr. Jones has served the public faithfully as a member and Chairman of the Urban Council, and will undoubtedly make a good member of the County Council. THE Fr OF THE FAIR.— A stranger came to the fair on Friday last, and several times went through the extraordinary performance of allowing y r, his hands, feet, and body to be tied round with a huge rope. After receiving the modest contri- butions of the crowd gathered about him, he would proceed to disentangle the knots and release him- self. This he generally succeeded in d^ing in a few minutes, until he was knotted by Tr Ellis Roberts, Glasdir, who gave the rope some intricate turns. The stranger admitted that it was a very funny tie, and it seemed for a long time that he would not release himself. After a hard struggle, however, for nearly an hour, he succeeded in slip- ping all the knots, and for once, perhaps, thoroughly deserved the remuneration given him by the crowd. CONVERSAZIONE.—The annual conversazione in connection with the English Presbyterian Chapel was held on Wednesday evening, the 9th inst. Mr R. Jones-Griffith, solicitor, presided, and the Rev. T. Palmer James conducted, while there was good attendance. The programme consisted of sketch entitled The trials of the patient womar and the following tableaux, which were staged an effective manner;—" Old King Cole," S'' of the Queen," Dirty Boy," and Rule Bri' The ladies' Sunlight Soap washing competit also a feature of the programme, and after contest, the prize was won by Miss Eliz Parry, Dolgelley. There was also a chall( competition, the adjudicators being Mess- Davies, Criterion, and John Lloyd, solid prize of 10s was (livi(led between Miss M- and Miss Lila Williams. Refreshn served at intervals by the lady memb- ceeds will be devoted in aid of the the church. LARCENY.—At a Special Sessir Friday evening last, before Mr R and Dr John Jones, John Earnest, J. brought up in custody charged with a foot-print wrench from C. J. M. monger, Sheffield, who had a standi Evidence was given by the prosecutor, prisoner was seen examining many a1 s;and, but buying nothing. Evidei y given by Mr Mason, musician, and Sei the former stating that the defendant the wrench while he was assisting hi) instrument away.—Superintendent Jones pressed that a severe punishment should be inflicted, as an example to others, there being too much of this work carried on in the town. The accused pleaded Not Guilty," but the magistrates sentenced him to a month's imprisonment with hard labour with- out the option of a fine. Prisoner had been con- victed previously of a similar offence. t MUDO.^—That is the order of the dav. It i? pen tvinor and •• yn mudo is just now one of the most familiar of phrases. You hear it at every turn, whether you be stepping out from the shop. crossing the street, or going to church. It is a verv significant phrase, and may be fraught with destiny f LV many a Doay. it implies changes for better or for worse in many a circle, there will be a new voice on many a hearth and new hands on many a farm. And lo, what a momentous time it is for our little folks. *'IViiaz," ask they." will the new servant be like:" Will she tell tales and pinch us. or will she let us steal mamma's jam galore like Mary Jane did ? It is spring; yn mudo" is in the air, and life's alive in every thing: for, after all, is not movement the surest sign of life? This year in particular the seasonable phrase has more than its ordinary significance, for there is quite an unusual bustle owing to the large number of removals to new houses. The old order is passing away. New and better house,, are springing up here and there, and the narrow dirt-laden alleys are giving way by degrees to wider and healthier I .z7 streets. '-Inmucto is a pretty phrase. It spells progress and strongly reminds us of some words very similar in form and meaning whispered long ago by that old Italian philosopher when the Pope threatened to flog him tor saying that the world itself moved." Even the snails are moving from their old shells at this time of the vear—and we are not utterly without a ray of hope that our Dis- trict Council will move at last—even though it be at a snail s pace—from its old dry husks of apathy and indifference. It is quite sad to think that many of our working men are worse conditioned than the brute creation. Our working men are unable to move to larger and healthier homes for the simple reason that they cannot get houses. How can these men be expected to build more stately mansions for their souls while they cannot even like the little nautilus move from their old dens where mind and body are crabbed and confined CRONJE AND HIS ARTISTS.—Mr. E. W. Thomas, of Glan'rafon Cottage, has linked the name of our town to that of the immortal Cronje in the minds of thousands of people in these islands and far further afield. A short time ago the Daily Mail offered a prize for the best construction of a photo of the renowned Boer general from the shattered remnants of an exploded shell. The competition was a keen one, and it required much, ingenuity and endless patience to put the weird lines and dark blotches together so as to form anything that would recall the figure which the war has made so familiar to all. We do not know whether the figure showed a likeness to Cronje when he was in the pride of strength among his troops, or as he is now. crestfallen, no doubt, in St. Helena-but one thing we know, and that is that Mr. E W. Thomas did the best and took the first prize, which was a pair of knives. Why knives, one naturally asks, and the mind is at once invaded by an association of ideas. Is Mr. Thcmas supposed to ,ome across the old general and waylay him. Mandarin like, with knife and picture in band ? If the large circulation of the :Mail" be any token of the keen- ness of the competition Mr. Thomas must have an excellent mathematical bump—one that should easily secure him a Senior Wranglership. How many readers must bav" puzzled their brains over this competition and how many thousands of the poor candidates must have tumbled in despair over this pans asinorum. URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL. The ordinary meeting of the above Council was held on Tuesday. Present: Messrs John Edwards (presiding), John Griffith, R. Richards, E. W. Evans, John E. Jones, D. Meredith. R. Davies, R. Barnett (deputy clerk), W. Jones (surveyor), and E. R. Jones (collector). The minutes of the last meeting were read, signed and confirmed. PAINTING OF LAMPS, &C. The Surveyor having raised the point as regards the colour of the paint to be put on the lamps, the urinals, and water cart. Mr R. Richards proposed the same colour as before, and that the work be given by contract. Mr Ellis Williams seconded, and the motion was agreed to. Mr D. Meredith called attention to the new signs that had been recently placed up on the different walls, some of which had already begun to look shabby, and that a coat of paint would alter them very much. This matter was left to the Surveyor to inspect the signs and report by the next meet- ing. G.W.R. WALLS. A letter was read from the Great Western Rail- way Company in answer to the letter sent to them complaining of the walls, which were in an awkward state, and this Company now stated that the matter would receive their prompt attention. WIDENING OF ARRAN ROAD. Mr John Griffith had handed a motion to the Clerk to be placed on the agenda for the meeting. as regards the purchasing of the whole land belong- ing to Mr D Meredith. Mr Meredith had sold a part of the land to the managers of the County School, on condition that the road be widened. It will be remembered that at the last meeting Mr John Griffith proposed an amendment to the effect that the Surveyor prepare a plan of the whole pro- posed improvements to Arrran-road. The Clerk had not inserted the motion on the agenda, as Mr Meredith was willing to dispose voluntarily of the rest of the land Mr Griffith proposed that an agieement be made between the Council and Mr Meredith, that he would dispose of the land. Mr Ellis Williams seconded, and the motion was agreed to. ç FLUSHING OF DRAINS. The Surveyor read a report on the defective drains in the town. The following were the places mentioned, Mount Pleasant-road. UpperSela-street, Cader-road, and Arran-road. A long discussion followed on whether the matter should be dealt with item by item. or whether they be left to a Committee. In the meantime, it was decided to leave the matter to a committee to con- sider and report upon it by the next meeting. This was proposed by Mr E. W. Evans, seconded by Mr John Griffith. SMITHFIELD-STREET. The Surveyor reported that the foundation bad not been completely laid down, and he would like to received instructions how to proceed with the work. It was decided to leave the matter in abey- ance. NEW FACTORIES. The Surveyor called atttention to the fact that Messrs J. Meyrick Jones Limited, had not sent in a duplicate of the plans of the New Factories, plans of which had been recently sanctioned. Mr Griffith. said that he had not received a duplicate from the architect, and that he would see that the duplicate was sent to the Council. MR. JORS THOMAS' HOUSE. The Surveyor began to read a report on Mr John Thomas' house, but as the motion of the Council was that the Streets Committee and the Surveyor were to inspect the place, the matter was not proceeded with, as the Streets Committee had not inspected the place. RATES. The Collector complained that two ratepayers refused to pay the rates. The two were in a position that they could easily afford to pay. On the motion of Mr E. W. Evans, seconded by Mr R. W. Richards, it was decided that proceed- ings be taken against them. The meeting then concluded.
CEFNDDWYSARN.
CEFNDDWYSARN. Christening Cerr On Thursday last, i- congregatior T. E. Ellis Chapel. beautF an ti r