Welsh Gazette and West Wales Advertiser

LLEDROD. C 5*FARFOD CYSTADLEUOI-.—Cynhaliwyd Cyfarfod J-ystadleuol yn y lie uchod nos Wener dan lywydd- rjQ Mr E. Evans, Tynewydd Villa, yr hwn a ei waith yn dra chanmoladwy. T Tilrn^aid oeddynt, cerddoriaeth, Mr Jones, C.M., ft5 amrywiaetb, Mr Ellis, Penllwynbedw, Ta a'r ysgrifenydd ydoedd Miss M. Jones, Gwobrwywyd y buddugwyr can- :—Canu gan rai dan 12 oed, John D. Morgan, jftnestlas- Adrodd pau rai dan 12 oed, Thomas J. jv Lluestwen. Unawd i rai dan 12 oed, Mary £ £ a..les> Brynsejr. Adrodd. Jane Davies, Rhydyr- i 11,. a John Morgan Jones, Lluestwen. Unawd dan 16 oed, T. Williams, Blaenwaun Isaac Jones, Rhywfallen, a John Evans, i Onbant. I nawd Soprano, Annie Owens, Waun- cJl Adrodd, Elizabeth Jones, Ffactory. Ateb i r^^na" ra* ^an oec^' -M- J- Davies, Tynporth; I) ao an 13 oed, H. Jones, Ffactory. Unawd Tenor, J flffiths, Henbant. Am y Llythyr goreu, Mary a » 8» Tan'rhafod. Dadl, M. J. Jones, Rhiwgwraidd, tuT'. J- Richards, Tyn'rhelyg. Deuawd.Mary J. Araofu Tynporth, a M E. Davies, Penbont. rhanwyd y wobr rhwng E. Morgans, Berth- Da a M.'E. Davies. Penbont, Canu difyfr, Adm7iPav^es> Tvnporth, ail M. Morris, Bankwynt. Una^V' E- Jones. Ffaclory, a M. Jones, Tan'rhafod. Tri» baritone, John R. Davies, Tyngraig. Davies, Tynporth, a'i barti. Penillion i ^e^r°d, goreu W. Griffiths (gynt o Lledrod), "^obr ™ai *leo1 ydoe(i<1 y cyfarfod dyfarnwyd y J;. FL Jones, Blaenwyre. Byr draethar Oleuni, Tyn °n.es- Ffactory. Pedwarawd, J- R- Davieti, a>i barti- Terfynwvd v cyfarfod ar ol k ti'wv aaef dadganiad oV gen flewr" R'ari Thomas Jones', Ft'osffin, ant' ac ytuadawodd pavvb yn foddhaol. u quickly and neatly done at the eJsh Gazette" Printeries Bridge Street I

-f Cardiganshire Assizes. COUNTY AGAIN FREE FROM CRIME. The winter assizes for the county of Cardigan were opened at Lampeter on Saturday last. The Honourable Mr Justice Bruce arrived in the town that evening and was received at the station by Dr Garrod Thomas (high sheriff) and Mr John Evans, solicitor, Aberystwyth (under-sheritf), and conveyed to the Judge's lodgings. On Sunday the Judge attended divine worship at St Peter's Church, the Rev T Meredith Williams, chaplain, officiating. The business of the Assize was commenced at the Town Hall on Monday morning. There were no criminal cases for trial, but a number of civil cases were down for hearing. The High Sheriff, at the opening, said he had the pleasure and honour of asking his Lordship's acceptance of a pair of white gloves, as an emblem of the cleanness of the county from crime, and these were gracefully accepted. THE GRAND JURY. The Grand Jury was sworn as follows :-Colonel Davies-Evans, Highmead (lord lieutenant), foreman; Messrs William James, Bronhyfryd; David Howell, Nantcellan-fawr James James, Ffynonhowell G. W. Parry, Llidiardau C. H. Lloyd Fitzwilliams, Newcastle-Emlyn H. Tobit Evans, Neuaddfawr; William Timothy, New Quay; T. H. R. Hughes, Neuaddfawr G. B. Bowen, Stradmore D. Griffith Davies, Cardigan; Thomas Davies, Yerdrefach; Nicholas Bray, Goginan; Thos. James, Aelybryn, Capel Bangor; B. Ellis Morgan, Aberystwyth; John Lloyd Hughes, Alltlwyd; William Jones, Fronheulog; David Davies, Felindve; and the Rev J. M. Griffiths, Aberayron. ADDRESS TO THE GRAND JURY. The Judge, in,, his charge to the Grand Jury, said he held very few words to address to them. It was a matter of sincere congratulation in this loyal county that so far as he knew at present there was not a single case to be put before them, not one single crime had been committed in the county which would warrant the case being sent to the Assizes. That was a matter of sincere con- gratulation to everyone having the welfare of the county:at heart. Being a grand inquest, they would now have to retire in order that anything pertain- ing to the county might be brought before them. y 11 He hoped nothing would be brought to the dis- credit of the character of the county. On returning, the foreman of the Grand Jury (Colonel Davies-Evans) said they bad passed they following resolution:—"We, the grand jurors of Cardigan, at this first Assize of his Majesty King Edward VII., desire to express our great sorrow at the close of the reign of her late Majesty our beloved Queen, and our sympathy with the Royal Family in the bereavement that has fallen upon them. It is also our privilege and our duty to express our loyalty to the throne on the accession of his Majesty King Fdward VII." » The Judge said it was highly satisfactory to get such an expression of loyal sentiments, especially as their loyal sentiments were accompanied by no serious crime in the county. He would take care that their presentment should be forwarded to the proper quarter, and hoped the purity of the county, of which the gloves presented him by the High Sheriff were an emblem, would long continue. COMMON JURY. The following were sworn on the Common Jury: —Messrs Geo. Maclaren, Llandissilio; Richard Edwards, Aberystwyth J. T. Megicks, Lampeter Jenkin Evans and Ed. Lewis, Llandissilio; Wm. Roger, Llwyngwyddyn, Gwnnws Ucha Thomas Hopkins, Aberystwyth; Ed. Hughes, Caergog, Vaenor Isaf; Thos. Jones, Llidiardau Fawr, Gwnnws Isaf; Thos. James, Lampeter; John Davies, Penlan Uchaf, Llanfihangel Ystrad; Timothy Davies, Bettws Bledrws; and John Griffith, Llanfihangel Ystrad. REVOCATION OF WILL. John Williams and David Williams, executors of the late Mrs. Griffiths, of Joppa, Llanrhystyd, brought an action to revoke a will made at the instance of the deceased's second husband. Mr. B, Francis Williams. K.C., and Mr. J. Davies Williams (instructed by Arthur J. Hughes, Solicitor, Aberystwyth), appeared for the plantiffs, who are nephews of deceased. Defendant did not appear personally or by counsel. Mr. B. F. Williams said the plantiffs sought to establish, to the satisfaction of the Court, the will of an old lady, who was their aunt. Probate had been granted on a prior will. The person in whose favour the former will had been made did not appear. The old lady who made the will in favour of which he appeared was a Mrs. Griffiths, who lived at a place called Joppa. Not Joppa in the Holy Land (laughter), but Joppa, near Llan- rhystyd, in Cardiganshire. She ha 1 been married years ago to a Mr. David Jones, and he died somewhere about 1870. They had kept a general shop at this place, and she had made, and she had got when she was a widow, two sums, one of £200 and another of Z150. When Mrs. Jones married Mr. John Griffiths in 1872, the little property she had got and the two sums of E200 and £ 150 were settled upon herself. She was to have the interest of the money paid to her by the trustees under the settlement during her lifetime for her separate use, and was to have a power of appointment as to bow the money was to be disposed of after her death. After the marriage with Mr. John Griffiths, he came debirous of getting hold of the money, but the wife thought she had better make a will. She intimated her desire, but the defendant appeared to have put every obstacle he could in the way. But Mrs. Griffiths took the opportunity when he was not there of giving instructions to a Mr. David Rowlands, a farmer and neighbour, to set down in writing what she desired to be the dispositions under her will. That was done, and the paper containing the instructions was given to a niece, Margt. Williams, who was in the house with her, and on affectionate terms she was told by Mrs. Griffiths to take the instructions to a NonconformistMinister Rev Evan Evans, a friend of her's, and to whom she had spoken before about the will. He prepared the will, and it was brought back and read over to the testatrix, and she said that that was bow she wanted to dispose of her property, and the will was duly executed in 1896 on the 5th May. By that will she appeared to have disposed of her property in a very fair way. She left P.200 of the R550 to be divided among her own near relations, ane she left P-160 to her husband, which was a very fair distribution of her property. That was in 1896. Mrs Griffiths, being a smart, active shrewd woman of business, continued to be so until the year 1898. In November, 1898, she was seized with a very severe illness, and from that time she became quite altered in mind and body. She became decrepid in body and to some extent lost the use of speech; her conversation became incoherent; she talked nonense, and talked of people who were dead as if they were living. She was not capable of transacting any business, and certainly was not in a fit condition to make a will. On the 13th March, 1899, the husband, David Griffiths, went to a solicitor at Aberystwyth, and out of his own head gave intructions to the solicitor to prepare a will. Thus, they would not be surprised if he told them that the instructions were to make it out entirely in his own favour, and the will was brought back and the old lady, or some- body, put a mark to it. That will, which they asked to revoke, was owing, to a delay, proved by the defendant without question. They also asked that the will of 1896, which was, undoubtedly the will of the old lady made in accordance with her wishes, duly executed at a time when she was in the full possession of her faculties, should be established. The defendant did not appear, neither was he represented by counsel, to oppose the revocation of the will, and no doubt they would not be surprised, after what he had told them of the circumstances. Margt. Williams, niece of the deceased testatrix, corroborated the opening statement of counsel as to the will of 1896. She had heard Mr Griffiths say many times that be was not willing that she should make her will. In 1898, she did not know her (witness) at all times, and was very childish. In 1899 her aunt was not in a fit condition to transact business or make a will. She talked of people who were dead as if they were living, and asked who was digging the grave in the graveyard close by, when no such operation was being carried on. The Judge Does this woman take an interest in the will? Mr B. F. Williams Yes, to the extent of £ 40. David Rowlands, farmer, proved having taken instructions from Mrs Griffiths,, upon which the will of 1896 was drawn up. She told him that her husband was averse to her making a will. Rev Evan Evans, Methodist minister, Pennant, was the next, witness, and said he lived about two miles from Joppa. He drew up the will of 1896 upon instructions written down by David Rowlands. Mr B. F. Williams (handing the will): Is that I your writing ?-Witness: Yes, save and except the names of the witnesses,—Mr Williams: I gather from the save and except" that this is not the first will you have prepared ? (laughter).—Witness: No. and I have prepared many since. John Richard Rowlands, Cefntrawsant, Llan- rhystyd, farmer, one of the signatories to the will of 1896, said he read the will over to Mrs Griffiths, and she appeared to understand it. He had lived with her, and for about. six months before she died she did not recognise him. Morgan Lewis, Llanrhystyd, another of the wit- nesses to the 1896 will, and Thomas Davies, Kennington, London, also gave evidence. The latter said he saw the testatrix in March, 1899. She was not then at all times in a lit condition to transact business, and did not seem to have sufficient strength of mind to direct her attention to any one matter long. The Judge, in summing up, said the point which the jury would have to decide was whether the testatrix was of a sound disposing mind in March, 1899. The Jury, without leaving the box, said they were unanimously of opinion that the will of 1896 was duly executed, and that testatrix was not of sound mind in March, 1899. The Judge then pronounced for the will of 1896, and revoked the probate granted to the will of 1899, the judgment being accompanied with costs. THE OATH OF ALLEGIANCE. A large number of'magistrates in the county took the oath of allegiance to His Majesty King Edward the VII. PROMISSORY NOTE TRANSACTION Thomas Jones, Cwrtnewydd, Llanwenog, was the plaintiff, and James Parry-Owen the defendant in a case in which a claim was made for P.112, alleged to be due on a promissory note. Mr B. F. Williams, K.C., and Mr J. Lloyd Morgan, M.P., (instructed by Mr Evans-George, solicitor, Newcastle Emlyn), ap- peared for plaintiff, and Mr J. D. Williams, (in- structed by Mr J. H. Evans), for defendant. Mr B. F. Williams, in his opening statement, said the amount which was sought to be recovered, Z112 8s 3d, was due on a promissory note dated 7th December, 1897. It was the joint note of detend- ant and three other persons.—Evan Evans, Thomas Griffiths, and Mary Thomas. The note was given for £440, and under the following circumstances. A person named David Davies, who was a general shop keeper, hada place called Caerwedrws, andjhe had been getting into difficulties. Evan Evans, Thomas Griffiths, Mary Thomas, and James Parry- Owen were creditors of his, and they were also mreties for him at the National Provincial Bank. 3n the 3rd December, 1897, the bank manager .vrote a letter to each of the sureties saying that ;he bank could not longer hold its band, and that ,he amounts due upon the diffierent notes for vhich they were responsible must be paid up. They had not got the money with which to pay up the notes, and they had a meeting, and it was sug- gested that the plaintiff might lend the money. After ascertaining that the exact amount of their liability at the bank was zE442 3s 8d. they saw the plaintiff on the 7th December, who agreed to lend £ 440 to pay off the bank, David Davies promising to find the remaining P,2 odd. There was to be inter- est at the rate of 7-1 per cent, and Mr Jones' cheque was given to one of the parties of the notes (Mr Evans), and the notes were given up. That was the transaction as far as the plaintiff was concerned- he got his promissory note, he advanced his money, and what he now expected was payment. These parties were liable to the bank on the various notes they had signed, and it was arranged as between themselves that they should be liable for the "0 in the same proportion that they had been before liable on the various promissory notes for which they were sureties. There was a discussion as to what was to be done with the affairs of David Davies to whose estate they were creditors, and it was agreed that instead of having bankruptcy there should be a voluntary settlement carried out by Mr Davies the debtor. It was arranged that Mr Jones, the plaintiff, who was an auctioneer, should sell off the effects of Mr Davies, and divide the whole between his creditors, to reduce the liability of C440 which they had then incurred. The sum realised by the sale was E291 12s 3d, for which amount Mr Davies gave Mr Jones (the plaintiff) a receipt. He was to hold that and do with it as Mr George, solicitor, who was acting in the matter, should direct. He was requested to hand over £ 145, and to keep the remainder himself, because it was ascertained that that would be a dividend of 6s 8d in the L, which each of the creditors up to that time was entitled to receive. Then some more estate was realised, and it turned out that the estate would pay another dividend, thus bringing it up to 9s 8d in the L. A cheque was then sent by Mr Evans George to the plaintiff for £97 13s 2d, which represented the further dividend to which those creditors of the estate of David Davies were entitled. What the defendant now pleaded was that the note was made upon the terms and conditions that the plaintiff, who was an auctioneer, should sell the goods and effects of David Davies by public auction, and recoup himself out of the proceeds thereof the sum paid by him to David Davies. He would prove that no such condition had ever been made. It would be very unlikely that the plaintiff would make such a condition, and he would hardly have paid his money in hard cash, and take the chance of payment out of what the estate would realise. He would have been a lunatic if he had. If he had he would have kept the whole of the proceeds of the sale, instead of handing over half to Mr Evans George. The Court then adjourned for luncheon, and on resuming, the opening statement of counsel was borne out by the plaintiff; Josiah Richard Jones, plaintiff's son; David Davies, Castle Green, Aberayron; Stephen Evans, living at Brockley, Kent, retired woollen merchant and justice of the peace for the county; and Thomas Griffiths. At this stage, Mr Davies Williams said he had just been conferring with his client, and he felt himself, and he agreed with him, that after the z, evidence of Mr Stephen Evans they could not per- severe in the line of defence that he embarked upon, viz., to set up the agreement they said was made on the 7th Dec. And in any case, if he understood his Lordship correctly, he would rule that the agreement, even if established, would be such an agreement that he would be bound to hold as a void agreement. That being the case, he was bound to say he did not see there was any defence to the action. The Judge I think it is a wise discretion. Judgment was then entered for the plaintiff for £ 112, the amount claimed, and interest from the time the writ was issued, together with costs. The Court then adjourned till 10 o'clock on Tuesday morning. r. THE HIGH SHERIFF'S LUNCHEON. The members of the Grand and Common Juries at the invitation of the High Sheriff, sat down to luncheon at the Lion Royal Hotel. The chair was occupied by Dr Garrod Thomas himself. A re- cherche repast was provided by the Host and Hostess, after which, in an eulogistic speech, pro- posed the toast of The King and Queen and the Royal Family." The toast was honoured with enthusiasm-Colonel Davies Evans, Lord Lieu- tenant of the county, proposed the toast of The High Sheriff." He said they were very much in- debted to Dr Garrod Thomas for the way he came forward at a time of difficulty, and accepted the office of High Sheriff. It was an ancient office, and a highly honourable office, and, he was afraid, an office which country gentlemen as a rule were not very anxious to adorn. He thought they should congratulate themselves upon the faot that there was such a bond of union amongst all Cardigan- shire men (bear, hear). They never forgot their native county (applause). Though they may reside far away outside the bounds of their county, they were ready to come back in this way and fill oner- ous and very costly offices for the sake of the honour and the dignity of their natire county (applause). It was really a very striking trait in the character of Cardiganshire men. He did not think they would find it in any other county in the United Kingdom. Dr Garrod Thomas was no stranger to them. Though, unfortunately, he and his family had lived outside the bounds of the county for many years, they were all very glad, he was sure to welcome him amongst them, and wished him long life and prosperity (applause).— The toast, having been heartily received, the High Sheriff, in acknowledging, said the Lord Lieutenant had alluded to the fact that he came forward at a time when there happened to be a vacancy in the sheveralty of the county. He looked upon that as a matter of doing his duty in more senses than one. In the first place the vacancy had occurred through the fact that some of their county men had gone out to fight for Queen and country on the dangerous veldts of South Africa. And it ill-fitted with the proper harmony of things if anyone re- fused to come forward to fill the vacancy as best he could. If he had filled it to their satisfac. tion that was a sufficient satisfaction to him (hear, hear). He, at any rate, would leok backward upon his year of office with considerable pleasure. It bad been the means of reviving old friendship,, and reviving old acquaintanceship, and bad also been the means of making a considerable number of new friends in the old county of Cardigan (applause). All of them could not fight. He was afraid that he would be a big target but a very bad marks- man (laughter). There were gentlemen in the room who had close acquaintances and very dear friends fighting for them in South Africa. Car- diganshire people had been doing valiant deeds in that distant place. In conclusion, Dr Thomas said he had had the honour of having occupied a posi- tion which no one else probably had. He had been high sheriff of the county during the portion of two centuries, and he had also had the honour of being HighJ Sheriff under two Sovereigns (cheers.) SECOND DAY'S PROCEEDINGS. < 1 BEDDOES V. MORGAN. The Court resumed its sitting on Tuesday morn- ing at ten o'clock, when Dr Beddoes, formerly of Aberystwyth, appeared as plaintiff, and the Rev John'Pughe Morgan. Beguildy Vicarage, Knighton, as defendant, in the claim for damages for alleged breaches of covenant of the lease of a house in North-parade, Aberystwyth. Mr Lleufer Thomas (instructed by Messrs Gordon, Dalbiac and Co., London), appeared for plaintiff, and Mr B. F. Williams and Mr J. D. Williams (instructed by Mr A. J. Hughes, Aberystwyth), for defendant. Mr Lleufer Thomas said the plaintiff was a doctor of medicine of Cambridge University and a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons. He had been Jiving for the last ten years at Aberystwyth, and for eight or nine years had been a churchwarden of Holy Trinity Church, and held other positions in the town. The defendant was the Rev John Pughe Morgan, who was the immediate lessor of a house, No 33, North-parade, of which plaintiff was tenant. The plaintiff alleged by his statement of claim a breach of covenant on the part of his immediate ) lessor, contained in a lease of the premises, the covenants so alleged to have been broken being the usual covenant for quiet enjoyment, and ¡more particularly a covenant providing for the making and construction of drains by the lessee. And he claimed in respect of these breaches damages for transfers. The house in question, also No 31, North-parade, had their backs to other houses, which had a frontage to Cambrian-street. The reversion"in Fee and the freehold of these premises belonged to the Corporation of Aberystwyth. That authority granted a lease in 1808 of those and other premises—it being at the time only a plot of land- to Poole and Lewis, or their predecessors in title. The lease was for ninety-nine years from the 4th October, 1808, and would, therefore, expire on the 4th October, 1907. Plaintiff was now the assignee of the lease of 1808, being reversioner expectant of the determinatien of a sub-lease granted by Poole and Lewis on the 12th June, 1827, to John Morgan, grandfather of the defendant. The lease of 1827, iated from 12th May, 1827, for a period of eighty < pears, and would expire on the 12th May, 1907. rhe original lease, granted in 1808, would expire on ( ;he 4th October, 1907, so that the plaintiff, as the tssignee of the original lease, would have a rever- ( sion expectant from the period between the 12th May and 4th October, 1907. In addition to that, plaintiff acquired in 1894 the original lease of 1808 by assign- ment from Mr Lewis Pugh Pugh. In 1896, plaintiff took the house as yearly tenant. Certain disputes then arose between plaintiff and defendant, which resulted in notice being given the former to quit. Plaintiff, considering he had a claim on account of the negotiations he had entered into, but which had not been completed, for the purchase of defendants interest in the house, held on. An action for ejectment was then brought in the County Court, and by a consent order it was settled on terms that a lease should be granted by the defendant to the plaintiff for the term of six years. The registrar of the County Court was directed to draft the lease, but the plaintiff took objection to the introduction of cer- tain clauses as not beinsr included or annroved of in the order. An appeal was made to the Divisional Court, but was compromised on terms that a lease for six years should be granted as settled by counsel on that occasion. Mr Thomas then put in the lease, which was dated 10th Feb., 1900, and wfych con- tained the covenants in respect of which the alleged breaches took place. His client maintained that in particular there was one easement that appertained to No 33, North-parade, and must have been in- cluded by virtue of section 6, sub-section 2, of the Conveyance Act, 1871, in the conveyance or in the assignment of 10th Feb., 1900. They maintained that there was now and had existed for many years before the occupation by the plaintiff arigbt enjoyed as appertaining to the said premises of draining through a certain drain which passed from the said premises to a sewer vested in the Corporation of Aberystwyth, which passed along the line of Cambrian-street. When the house was built in the first instance the drainage of 33, North-parade was carried out not under the house towards the front, but towards the back and along a certain passage —over which there was still a right of way—into Cambrian-street. By the lease of 10th Feb., 1900, plaintiff covenanted to permit the lessor, his agents, and contractors, and his and their workmen, to enter upon the premises and execute and doall repairs necessary to be done for the purpose of fulfilling the covenants and conditions in the existing lease from the Corporation, and also for the purpose of executing the following works: The back walls and boundary wall at the back to be picked and pointed in cement, new windows put in the front house, and the drains to be made to comply with the bye-laws of the Corporation, such works to be completed by the 12th, May, 1900. The lessor on the other hand convenated with the lessee to do at his own expense before the date named in a sub- stantial and workmanlike manner with sound and proper materials, and to the satisfaction of the Cor- poration of Aberystwyth pick and point in cement the back walls of the said house and also the boundary wall, and place new windows in the front in compliance with the bye-laws for the time being in force within the borough of Aberystwyth, and also would make good all damage which might be done. That was the convenant in respect of which damages were claimed. The Judge: And you say that that covenant has not been performed. Mr B. F. Williams: They say it has been per- formed too much. .I Mr Lleufer Thomas said plaintiff claimed the right to an easement of the drain that led out and drained into Cambrian-street. The Judge: But lessor covenanted to construct the drain so as to make it in compliance with the bye-laws of the Corporation. Mr Thomas: That particular drain has been taken up and demolished and a new drain made in its stead. The Judge But supposing the Corporation/ com- pelled him to do so. He would have to do it then. Mr ffhomas: That particular bye-law only applies to new buildings. Mr Thomas also stated that the byelaw stated that no drain should be taken under a house except where such would be impracticable otherwise. In this case another mode was practicable and had been in existence since the erection of these buildings in the first instance. The plaintiff in this action had acquired the property for a term of six years, with any easement to a road to Cambrian-street and for existing drain. Having acquired that right be could not be compelled to allow a drain to be made under his house. In regard to the drain under Cambrian-street there was no difficulty in doing any alteration that was necessary to improve it so as to comply with the bye-laws. Then the other part of their case was that there bad been a breach on the part of the defendant of this covenant of his lease of 1827, and then they claimed for- feiture. Mr B. F. Williams said there bad been no notice of this under the Conveyance Act. The Judge ruled that plaintiff could not maintain his claim for forfeiture. Dr Beddoes was then called and corroborated generally counsel's opening statement. He said he gave defendant's workmen on April 6, 1900, per- mission to enter his premises to carry out the works provided for in the renewal. The contractor had been to the house previous to the 6th April to measure the windows, but he said nothing about the drains. On the 6th April he saw a specifica- tion showing how the drains were to be con- structed. He examined the specifications and the plans, but said nothing. There was a natural fall in the ground from North-pade to Cambrian- street. He did not know up to April 6th of any instance of a house drain to the back having been diverted so as to lead to the front. The workmen sawed through the boards in bis front room, took them up and then made a trench, throwing the earth up on each side against the skirting and and the paper. He had to leave the house while the work was proceeding, and his servant also declined to remain in the house. He went out on the 18th April, and had not gone back yet. His practice at Aberystwyth bad been practically destroyed. When he saw the workmen continuing with the work the day after the writ in this action had been served he remonstrated with them, Sub- sequent to the execution of the writ he was so exasperated by the defendant's workmen that he went and told the Chief Constable that be would have to take means to defend himself. In conse- quence of something he said to the Chief Constable proceedings were taken. and lie was bound over to keep the peace at the Aberystwyth Police Court. Plaintiff also stated that no provision was made for the ventilation of the drain under the house, and it did not comply with the bye-law in sound as there was no concrete under it. In cross- examination by Mr B. F. Williams plaintiff said the County Court action was for ejectment and rent owing. He would not pay rent because defendant had forfeited the lease, and he refused to go out because defendant had broken his covenant. He admitted that he had accepted the ground rent up to May, 1898, and it bad been tendered to him afterwards, though he counterclaimed for it in'the County Court action. He bad refused to execute the lease agreed to by Counsel in the Di visional Court until he had seen it. Having become the asiguee of the lease of.1827, he did not trv to get the Corporation to grant a new lease to hinii He protested against Mr Morgan having it, however, because the lease executed by counsel was a most stringent one, and he was bound under the terms to keep the house in repair. He was quite willing for defendant's workmen to come into his house. The only thing he objected to was a man coming in one day who gave no name to the servant. He knew the works had to be completed by the 12th May, 1900, but he had no idea in his mind that if he could prevent Mr Morgan completing the work by that date it would stop his lease. He saw the specification on the 6th April, but did not object then. His reason was that he bad to be very care- tul, there having been a previous attempt to attack him. On the 6th April the contractors' workmen came and dug up inthe front and back of the house. —Mr Williams My learned friend said you remon- strated with them. Did you remonstrate with a gun and dagger ? No.—Did you threaten to stab 1:19 them ? No. I only had a Norwegian knife which I use for sharpening pencils and cutting paper. And that. was the only thing I had to defend myself with.—Did you tell John Williams you would stab him ? o.Was a summons taken out against you ? Yes.—And were you bound over to keep the peace? Yes, for what I said to the Chief Con- stable.—The Judge: You renionstrated ? Yes, I said unless they stopped in three hours I should go there armed.—Mr Williams: With a dagger? No, with a carbine and btyonet:-Had you got them ? Yes.—And cartridges ? Yes.—Did you on the 17th April get two men from Hoskins and Ali!let, I Yes.—To remove the furniture ? No, to remove the men.—What are Hoskins & ATiller ? Enamel slate makers and dealers.—Why did you want enamel slate dealers to remove the men ? Because they were the only men I could get.—But these men were rot made of enamelled slate?—No, but I wanted them to pre- vent the men breaking into the house. Mr W. A. Miller, of the firm of Hoskings & Miller, chairman of the Aberystwyth Board of Guardians and churchwarden of Llanbadarn Church, was called for plaintiff. He said the drain which ran into Cambrian-street could have been made efficient to provide for the drainage of 33. North-parade. Speaking generally, North-parade was higher than Cambrian-street, and thus the fall to the latter place would be more natural and easy. The drain under the house was ventilated by a shaft, which however, had an angle in it. The inspection open- ing and air inlet bad been removed.—Cross- examined, witness said it was not part of his business to supply men to remove men who were disagreeable, but the men in his employ who went to Dr Beddoes' house went without his knowledge, Mr S. H. Pemberton, consulting sanitary engineer, carrying on business at London and Aberystwyth, said he had recently inspected the premises of 33, North-parade. He had made an estimate of the Jost lof taking up the drain under two living rooms, and it amounted to £ 45 18s. He had in- cluded in his report about £ 3 for papering and painting skirtings.—Cross-examined by Mr B. F. Williams, witness said he had had a little office in Gloucester-road, London, three years ago, and be held a certificate as a consulting engineer,—Mr Williams Did anyone ever consult you ?—Witness: Yes, hundreds.—Did you come to Aberystwyth and buy the goodwill of a business there ?— Yes.—Did you find it did not pay you? Yes. -Did you turn it into a Turkish bath and cigarette shop? (Laughter.) No.—But you are keeping a billiard room Yes, but I have not come hereto be cross-questioned. I understood I was to come here to defend my estimate. 1 have come to defend my estimate and answer any question you like and give any measurements.—Mr Williams I will take your measurement first. (Laughter.) You repre- sent yourself as a consulting sanitary engineer? Yes.—Who keeps a billiard table?—Yes what has that got to do with it ?-And sells cigarettes and keeps a Turkish bath ? When were you last consulted as sanitary engineer ? Last Saturday.— By whom ? Dr Beddoes.—Before that ? I don't remember.— So long ago that you can't remember ? No, but listen to me, I have been laid up and have not been looking for work ?—Have you ever seen I these drains ? No, how can I when they are under J ground. I This concluded the case for the plaintiff, Mr B. F.Williams submitted that on the plaintiff's own evidence there was no case. The plaintiff, according to his own admission, saw the specification on April 6th, and knew what was going to be done. The first intimation they received from plaintiff was on April 11th, and he made no objection then. It was conclusive of legal license on plaintiff's part. The Judge I can't construe his letters as having given license. Mr Williams Is there any evidence that the drain was not constructed according t3 the Corporation bye-laws ? The Judge: That is rather a difficult question. I am not sure I quite understand what the bye- laws mean. Your case is that the bye-laws were complied with. Mr Williams: Yes, and consequently there was license to carry out the work according to the specification. Mr A. J. Hughes, clerk to the Aberystwyth Town Council, and defendant's solicitor, was then called for the defence. He detailed the practice of the Corporation with regard to the renewal of leases. The defendant's application came before the Finance Committee on the 14th Feb., 1899, and was confirafed by the Council on the 21st Feb. Mr Morgan subsequently wrote accepting the terms. The universal stipulation in granting leases was that the work was to be completed before the actual lease was granted. There was a great difficulty in getting the lease executed by Dr Beddoes, and the result was that the alterations were delayed. The Corporation, as lessors, entered into a covenant with all lessees when renewing leases that the buildings should be considered new buildings in order to have control over them and to be able to put them in a sanitary condition.— Cross-examined by Mr Lleufer Thomas, witness said he was under the impression fhat plaintiff had applied for a renewal of the lease. At the time, however, when Mr Morgan's application was d considered by the Finance Committee and accepted by the Council there was nothing from the plaintiff before the Council. Mr Rees Jones, surveyor to the Aberystwyth Corporation, said he had examined the work done by the defendant at 33, North-parade, and found it in accordance with the bye-laws. There was a proper fall from the drain to the. sewer in North- parade. The bedding of the drain under the house was perfect, being made according to the bye-laws. —In cross-examination, witness said the Corpora- tion had no objection to one drain as long as 33, North-parade, and the cottages in Cambrian-street belonged to the same owner. A renewal of the lease would not be granted, however, unless a separate drain was made. Mr B. F. Williams then asked whether it was necessary to call further witnesses. The Judge said he thought he was in possession of the facts of the case, but Mr Williams could conduct his case in his own way. Mr Williams: I have witnesses, but I dont think it necessary to call any further evidence as to the question of license. The Judge: I am not with you on the question of license. Mr Thomas: I think the case is that my client protested too much. The Judge: Threatening with a carbine and sword does not look like giving license (laughter). The Judge then stated he would hear.the addresses of counsel, the followingiday at Carmarthen, but all the witnesses could be discharged. The case was then adjourned until two o'clock on Wednesday at Carmarthen.

TREGARON. SALE.—As will be seen by our advertising columns Messrs Williams and Evans, auctioneers, will offer for sale at the Talbot Hotel on Tuesday, March 12tii, the freeholi property known as Castell-y-wein. LITERARY SOCIETY.—On Wednesday evening in last week a meeting of the above Society was held under the presidency of Mr W. J. Waterhouse. An able and interesting paper was read by Mr H. R Roberts, excise officer, on 4* Conscriptionand there followed afterwards an interesting and in- structive discussion, when the following took part: Messrs Thomas Evans and T. H. Davies, County School, and Miss Jones. On a vote ten voted for conscription, and eighteen against. SUCCESS.—In the Matriculation list of the University of London we notice the name of Miss Gwen M. Jones, of the Tregaron County School. We understand that she is the first girl candidate to pass from the school, two of the boys having preceeded her last June. If all who matriculate proceed to degrees, Tregaron will be well re- presented bye-and-bye; for there will be five Welsh matriculants to add for the twelve month's work. Such good results cannot but encourage the staff to persevere in unflagging effort for the children in their charge. EISTEDDFOD.—A successful eisteddfod was held on Friday evening last at the Wesleyan Chapel, Mr W. J. Waterhouse, B.A., County School, presiding. The awards in the various competitions were as follows :Chief choral competition, "Ffarwel i ti Gymru fad," for a party of not less- than thirty in number, prize awarded to Llangeitho party, con- ducted by Mr J. Evans, Cefnbanal, who were the only competitors; party of not less than twelve in number, Seren anwyl" four parties, winners, Mr D. J. Jones and friends, Tregaron; quartette, "Bedd y dyn tlawd," Mr David Davies, Wenallt, Llangeitbo, and party: duett, Y ddau lowr," Mr Davies, Wenallt, Llangeitho, and friend; soprano solo, "'Rwyf yn cofio'r lloer," Mary Blodwen Evans, Chapel-street; bass solo, 44 Breuddwyd y morwr bach," Mr R. Jones, County School; tenor solo, 44 Wyt ti'n cofio'r Iloer yn codi," four competing, Mr D. J. Jones, Aeron House; solo for girls under sixteen years of age, ,4'Rwy'n gweddio drosoch chwi," Mary Blodwen Evans, Chapel-street; solo for boys under sixteen years of age, 14 Yn y man," six competing, Mr T. Davies, Blaencaron; essay, 44 Gwelliantan y bedwaredd ganrif ar bymtheg," Mr David Jones, Glandulas, Llangybi; four verses, 44 Cymdeithas Lenyddol Tregaron," Mr Evan Thomas, Pwll, Llangybi; impromptu speech, "Gallu cyfoeth," Mr David Jones, Glanyrafon, Blaencaron; -ecitation, for those under sixteen, "Y ty ar y I iywod," Mr David Jones, Glanyrafon, Blaencaron; I recitation, for children under sixteen, 44 Dalen wen I y fiwyddyn newydd," eight competing, Beta Davies, u Doldre. The adjudicators were:—Singing: Mr M. De Lloyd, Aberystwyth; miscellaneous items, Rev R. Emrys Jones, Lampeter. Mr Thomas Jones, Post-office, proved himself an amiable conductor, !j and Miss Jones acted as accompanist. The duties of treasurer and secretary were ably discharged by Mr David Davies, C.M., and Mr D. j. Thomas, Cam- brian House, respectively. The spacious chapel I was crowded to its utmost. < BOARD OF GU ARDIANS.-TuESDAY. Present:—Mr Evan Evans, Lledrod Lower (chair- man), presiding; Messrs D. J. Williams and Rees Evans, Caron Lower; Richard Jones, Caron Upper; Evan Lloyd, Blaenpenual; H. Herberts, Nantcwn- lle; David Davies. Gorwydd; Lewis Oliver, Ys- bvtty; John Owen, Llanbadarn; Peter Davies, Llangeitho; Thomas Davies, Gwynfil; John Jones, Gwnnws Upper; with J. Lloyd (clerk), M. Morgan (master), Rees Rowlands (relieving officer), Dr Lloyd and Dr Morgan (medical officers). STATISTICS. Amount, of out-door relief administerd during tlse past f ortiii-lit per Mr Rees Rowlands was £ 40 12s Wl^Paupers. Number of inmates in the House, 34- Number of vagrants relieved during the past fortnight, 11. RE ELIZABETH PUGH. The Clerk read the following letter which he h.d received from the Vicarage, BlaenpellDal: I am in receipt of your letter of the 22nd inst. enclosing a copy of a letter from the Clerk of the Tregaron Board of Guardians replying to my communication of the 12th ulto touching the case of a married coupled, Elizabeth and John Pugh, in which it is stated that the family of John PLi-h had received a certain sum of money, and that full particulars as to the amount received and how the money had been used would be required when further applica- tiun xor reiiei would be made. This sum of money I presume refers to the few pounds which Elizabeth Pugh was left in charge of during her attendance upon a sick person in this parish, since deceased, a portion of which she had to use for the require- ments of the sick person during his illness; and whatever was over and above, I presume, she used in the way that seemed best to her. Now, on Tuesday last, she was summoned to appear before the Board of Guardians at Tregaron to give an account of this money, and as a result of their deliberations she was dismissed with a request to appear again in a fortnight's time. But what is this married couple to do in the meantime? It is known to us here that they have subsisted for some weeks past on the charity of the neighbours, and that they are in extreme want. Now, is it reason- able and just that payment of poor rate should be demanded when this very money, paid by the rate- payers and intended for the deserving poor, is denied them ? I think the matter resolves itself into this: should either of the two be Lund dead in the house, and it could be proved that death resulted through want of the absolute necessaries of life, who, 1 beg to ask in all solemnity, is to be held responsible? This case is one which requires immediate attention, and I sincerely trust that something will be done without further delav to relieve the burden of their poverty. 4 To mortal man great loads allotted be, But of all packs, no pack like poverty.' v, AT n, "J.c::LY-A-CT. After some deliberation it was proposed bv Mr John Jones, and seconded by Mr H. Herbcrts, and it was agreed that the interference of the Rev Z M. Davies without any necessity in the above matter was unfair, as he did not, give all the facts of the case, and thereby reflecting on the manner in which the Guardians administered relief. DR MORGAN'S SALARY. This matter was again brought under discussion and it was agreed that the matter be referred to a committee, consisting of Messrs D. J. Williams, D. Davies, R. Jones, E. Evans, Rees Evans, and Hugh Herberts. It was further agreed that the committee should meet Friday week The Clerk called the attention of the Board to a charge made against him at the last meeting by Mr Wm. Jones, that he mislead the Board by stating that a woman was not eligible for the post of Registiar of Marriages at the previous meeting. He had submitted the question to the Registrar General (in order, if possible, to convince Mr Wm. Jones that it was even possible that he may be wrong) and received the following reply Registrar-General Office, 18th Feb., 1901, "lam directed by the Registrar General to acknowledge the receipt of your letter ot the 16th inst., and in reply to inform that a woman is not eligible for the appointment of Registrar or Deputy Registrar of Marriages."—W. A. Humphreys, chief clerk. PETTY SESSIONS. The monthly Sessions were held on Tuesday, before Messrs D. J. Williams (in the Chair), William Jones, David Davies, Thomas Davies, Dr. Lloyd, and Dr. Morgan. DRUXK AND DISORDERLY. John Richards, Tanyfynwent, carrier, was charged by Superintendent Phillips with having been drunk and disorderly on the highway on the 13th December last. The defendant admitted the offence, and said he was sorry it had occurred. A fine of 2s. 6d. was imposed. APPOINTMENT. Sergeant Davies was appointed inspector under the Explosives Acts for the lower district, and P. C. John Jones, for the upper district. SCHOOL ATTENDANCE. Mary James, Esgeireithin, was charged by Thomas Evans, school attendance officer, Blaenpennal, with neglecting to cause two of her children to attend school. In reply to the Bench, the Officer said that the children were 8 and 10 years of age respectively, and had not been in school once. The parents were in poor circumstances, and a short time ago the children were supplied with clothes by the Guardians in order that they might attend school, but they have not done so. After some deliberation, the Bench decided if the children were not sent to school in future that they would be sent to an industrial school. Jane Pugh, Bwlchmynydd, Nantcwnlle, was charged by school attendance officer, with neglecting to send her child to attend school. A fine of 2s. 6d. and cost was imposed. A DISORDERLY TOPER. Herbert Jones, Fron Villa, labourer, was charged by Superintendent Phillips with having been drunk and disorderly on the 7th February last, at Tregaron. Defendant did not appear, it being stated that he now resided in London. Sergeant Davies said on the nieht of the 7th inst, he saw the defendant on the Square staggering drunk, and creating a disturbance. Witness requested him to go home, and defendant went towards the bridge, cursing and swearing. When he (witness) went towards the bridge, he again saw him very disorderly. About ten minutes later he saw the defendant knocking doors, after people had gone bed. He again requested him to go home, or else lie would lock him up, and at the same time told him that he would leave him a summons. A fine of 5s. and cost was imposed. The same defendant was also charged by William Edwards, Pant, Llan- ddewi-brefi, with assault, but the Bench were informed that the case had been compromised. ACKNOWLEDMENT. The Clerk said he had received the follawing reply u I to the resolution of sympathy passed at the previous SessionsHome Office, Whitehall, 23rd Feb.—Sir,— I am commanded by the King to convey to vou hereby His Majesty's thank for the loyal and dutiful resolution of the Cardiganshire Justices (Tregaron Division), expressing theirsympathy with His Majesty and the Royal Family on the occasion of the lamented death of her late Majesty Queen Victoria. I am, Sir, your obedient servant, C. T. Richie." At letter was also read from Mr. C. T. Williams, Broncaradog, acknowledging the expression of condolence passed by the magistrates with the family of the late Mr. Williams.

LAMPETER. PERSONAL.—Mrs Harford, Falcondale, is spend- ing the winter in Italy for the benefit of her health, where it is hoped a more favourable climate will affect complete restoration. COUNTY COUNCIL.—Mr J. C. Harford, Falcon- dale, has been nominated as a candidate for the forthcoming election for the County Council. No other candidates have been nominated and Mr Harford the retiring member, has had a walk over. SUCCESS.—In the Matriculation Examination list of the London University appears the name of Mr J. Wrfght Davies, B.A. in the first division. Mr Wright Davies is the eldest son of Mr William Davies, College-street, and is at present science master at the S.D.C. School. THE JUDGE.—His Lordship, Justice Br ice, accompanied by the High Sheriff, Dr A. Garrod Thomas, the Under Shei-iff. Mr John Evans/solicitor, Aberystwyth, and the chaplain, the Rev. T. i,1. Williams, Llanartb, attended the English service at the Parish Church on Sunday morning last. The Mayor, Aldermen, Councillors and Officials of the Borough, were in attendance, an.l a posse of polie-e, under the supervision of Supt. Phillips, Aberyst- wytlh, formed an escort. The Rev. T. M. Williams preached an appropriate sermon. There was a very large congregation. BOARD OF GUARDBANS. The fortnightly meeting of the Lampeter Board of Guardians was held on Friday, Feb. 22, at the Board Roopi, Union Workhouse, when there were present Mr. David Davies, Velindre (chairman), presiding; Rev. R. C. Jones (vice-chairman); Messrs John Davies, Lampeter; David Price, Lampeter Rural; Lewis Davies, Llanchwys; Rev. T. C. Edmunds, Trefilan; J. G. Marsden, Silian David Davies, Cellau; D. H. James, and John Thomas, Llanllwni; John Davies, and Griffith Jones, Llanybyther William Jones, Llangybi; B. J. Evans, Llanfairclydogau; Samuel Davies, Bettws Bledrws; James Jones, Llanwenog; David Evans, and William Edwards, Pencarreg; Thomas Davies and Thomas Evans, Llanfihangel, Rhosycorn; Evan Davies, Llanwenog; David Lloyd (clerk), E. D. Rees (assistant clerk), and Dr. Thomas (medical officerY. --r STATISTICS. The amount of out-relief administered during the past fortnight was as follows:—Per Mr. David Evans, P-40 5s. to 129 paupers; per Mr. D. Parry, £33 15s. to 127 paupers. The Matron reported that the number in the House the last day of the past fortnight was 21; corresponding period last year, 19 the number of vagrants relieved, 19 corresponding period last year, 24. NEW DIETARY TABLES. The Clerk reported having received a number of letters regarding the new Dietary Table Order issued by the Local Government Board, and one authority suggested that a meeting of delegates of all Unions should be held in London to consider the advisability of the Order being made sptional. all to secure an amendent thereof. The objections raised to the Order wete the large increase in the rates, the ingredients table in the new Order excessive, necessary increase of stuff, dissatisfaction amongst the inmates caused by the variation in the allowances, and on the ground that the present | tables are good, sufficient, and adequate. The Chairman said they sympathised with thllr matters contained in the communication, bufc could not afford to send anyone to the conference, The Clerk stated that Mr. Jones, the late master, had drawn up a new dietary table. Mr. BirclMte had examined it, and suggested several alterations, which had since been approved of by the committee- Hev. r. c. Edmunds said the Local Government board would not now concede to any request to revise the tables. The Clerk said it would, no doubt, effect larse- Lnions, but whether it would effect them was questionable. CHURCHYARD EXTENSION. The Clerk stated it was proposed to extend the churchyard at Lampeter. When the churchyard was extended before Dr. Llewelyn, the then incumbent, granted a piece of land, and the cost of building the wall was defrayed from a fund devoted to that purposes. There was a sum of JS100 in that fund at present. The Vicar had been applied to, and was willing to give more land for an extension. The Church Council had written to London to obtain the consent of the Local Go«frment Board to carry out the work, and that authority had replied, that if the Parish Councils of the Lampeter Urban and Lampeter Rural districts would consent they were prepared to consider the matter. The Chairman said he considered it premature to consider the question until the two parishes had given their decision upon it. The Clerk said he would again write to the otbcials of the two parishes intimating the desire of the Local Goverment Board. THE MATRON AND HER OFFICE. The Rev. T. C. Edmunds said a report bad gone through the length and breadth of the Union that some of the guardians had made a distiuct promise to the present matron that she was to remain on at the workhouse if she got married. He did not know how far the report was true, but if the woman was to remain on it was useless for them to advertise in the papers as they bad done. It was all very well for the guardians to show tender sympathy with the widow in her affliction, but he thought their first duty was to see that the Union had a. proper master and matron. No doubt, amongst those who would send in their applications, they would have some of the very best that could be found in the Union. The matron, continued Mr. Edmunds, had issued a Welsh circular, in which she asked the guardians to postpone the appoint- ment beyond March 25th. That showed there was something in the wind. Mr. Lewis Davies said that the matron had sent out a Welsh circular, but there was nothing in it to which objection could be taken. Rev. T. C. Edmunds:—We are the representatives of the Union, and outsiders expect us to do our duty, and our plain duty is to do the best we can for the workhouse. Mr. John Davies said the matron, in her circular did not ask the Board to commit itself in any way. The Rev. T. C. Edmunds said from what he could gather from the circular it seemed as if t here was someone prompting the matron. He had nothing against Mrs. Jones. Mr. Lewis Davies said Mrs. Jones had done the same as Mrs Lewis did before. Rev T. C. Edmunds I dont know anything about that, but complaints have come from some of the ratepayers. Mr Lewis Davles: Mrs Lewis asked us to give her three months, and why can't Mrs Jones have a husband as well as anybody else ? Rev T. C. Edmunds: But the Workhouse is not the place to get a husband. Further discussion ensued, and the Rev T. C. Edmunds said his complaint was that some of the guardians had given a promise. If not, they should sav so. The Chairman I have not seen her. Mr John Thomas I have never seen her. I don't believe I would know her if I saw her. Mr Lewis Davies then read the circular sent to the members by the matron. The Chairman Where are we drifting ? Rev T. C. Edmunds: We are decidedly drifting from my question. The Chairman You asked if any guardian bad ade a promise, and they all say no. The whole thing is now at an end. In reply to further questions, the Chairman said they had decided to make the appointment at the next meeting, and they should not go and meet trouble. RESIGNATION OF THE CLERK. The Board then went into committee to consider the conduct of Mr David Lloyd as clerk. After deliberating in private for a considerable time, the press representatives were informed that Mr Lloyd had resigned his position, and the Chairman bad given notice to move the appointment of a successor at the next meeting. LLANYBYTHER RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL. A meeting of this Council was held on Friday afternoon last at the Board Room, Union Work- house, Lampeter, Mr D. H. James presiding. The Medical Officer read his annual report in which he stated that the number of deaths seemed to have been on the increase since 1895. The number of cases notified during the year was—diphtheria 17, membraneous croup 1; erysipelus 1; scarlet fever 4; making in all 23, of these 18 occuring in the dis- trict comprising the parishes of Llanybyther, Llan- llwni and Rhosycorn. The number of deaths at all ages was 73. The ages at death were as follows, under one year, 5; one and under five, 6 five and under fifteen, 1; fifteen and under twenty-five, 2 twenty-five and under 65, 17; sixty-five and over, 32. The causes of death were, diphtheria and erysipelas 1; bronchitis 5 heart decease 7; epi- demic infleunza 1; enteric 3; phthisis 9; pneumonia 2; accident 1; cancer 7 premature birth. All other causes; 34. No dwelling houses had been condemned in the district during the year. The Llancrwys school bad to be closed for several weekS" as scarlet fever and diphtheria were prevalent in the district. The Llanybyther school was also closed on account of an extensive epidemic of measles in the parish. The most important matters. occupying:the attention of the District Council in re- lating to sanitary affairs bad been the drainage and water supply of Llanybyther and the water supply of Ram and Treherbert. The main difficulty in carrying these matters appeared to be the bad spirit in which many of the inhabitants view any measures necessary for the District Council to take in order to improve the sanitary condition of the district. It seemed to him that many of them were as hard hearted as Pharaoh of old, and must suffer years of pestilence before they realised the morbid state in which they lived. They would believe the impossible, but were very reluctant in believing a rational statement that a mass of filth, accumulated for years in close proximity to human habitations, was bound, sooner or later, to end in disastrous results to the inhabitants. He was glad, however, to be able to say that the District Council had at last decided to provide Llanybyther with proper drainage and a supply of pure water. The upper part of the village was to be supplied from Glantrenfawr, where pipes had already been placed to facilitate matters later on in the year, when the scheme would be completed. The lower part of the village would receive water from Ffynonvelvet, where a reservoir would be constructed and pipetf placed so as to carry it to the centre of the village. With regard to the drainage, he understood that an open paved drain would be made along the Black Lion field, Cae Velvet, and the back of the houses below, down the river. The two water supplies could then be utilized to flush this drain at least periodically if not continuously. The expense incurred in carrying out these measures would be much less than was at present anticipated by the villagers. The water supply for the Ram and Treherbert villages had also received the con- sideration of the District Council, and in all probability would be obtained from Talfedw, a farm in the near vicinity, where the quantity was gauged some time ago as thirty gallons per hour. He should also state that the District Council secured the services of an engineer from Swansea to assist them in deciding as to the" best way of obtaining an adequate supply of water for the villages mentioned. He should also like to draw their attention to a more efficient notification of infections diseases. He thought it would be well to adopt some plan of informing parents that when no medical man Jvas in attendance, as was often the case in mild cases, that they were under a penalty when they neglected to notify such cases to the medical officer ,pf Health. Those that had already seen erysipelas, measles, scarlet fever, and diptbtheria were able to suspect their presence when they occurred inajfamily. They often found the fevers began in a mild form, and when the necessary precautions were taken they were nippecL in the bud, and further spreading checked. It would also be well to have printed forms sent to the proper authorities when it was desirable to close schools. RECRIMINATIONS. Mr John Davies charged the Medical Officer with having said that he reported the slaughter house at Llanybyther, when he had not done so. The Medical Officer denied the charge, but Mr Davies had started the question about Evan Thomas, Porth. Mr Davies Don't you use my name in future. The Chairman: All public men have to bear a little. Mr Davies But I am not going to suffer. THE BOAHD SCHOOL. The Medical Officer mentioned that the Board School at was still closed owing to the outbreak ot diphtheria, but the disease had now abated. The Council suggested that the Medical Officer, undfr the circumstances, should again give in- t structions for the opening of the school, and he said that he nuw thought that might safely be done.

Mr David Lloyd, solicitor, clerk to th< Lampeter Union, has resigned that OffiCE after a service of 47 years. Mr Humphreys-Owen, M.P., was on Fri- day placed on the Select Committee on "Standing Orders of the House of Commons. The report of the directors of the Cum- brian Railways Co. shows an increase in the receipts for the half-year ended Dec. 31st, 1900, of X5,608, and an increase in the expenditure of < £ 7,985. It will be seen from the report of the Medical Officer, which we print elsewhere, that Aberayron has enjoyed a remarkable immunity from infectious and all other diseases during the past year. This is remarkable considering how little the local authority has contributed to attain such a satisfactory result. The Executive of the Association of Poor Law Unions has reported adversely on the new dietary order, and recommended that the Local Government Board should be asked to allow such Boards as so desire to postpone the carrying out of the order until the results of the new dietary are ascertained those Boards which are prepared gto put t in force. Aberystwyth County School and its stall j*e to be heartily congratulated upon the brilliant success of its old students two or holll have passed the London University Matriculation examinations in the First vision, and one in the Second Division, handicapped and badgered as it is, Abeiyst- Wyth County School is doing excellent work, nd is worthy of every support. At the Cardiganshire County Council on Thursday, Alderman Peter Jones said that ^6 felt strongly that no claim should be 131ade by an urban district as against the County Council because advantages resulting tD t, from having the streets flagged were so distinct and direct to the towns that it would be hardly reasonable to call upon the rate- payers from mountainous districts to con- "e tribute towards such expenditure. Winter Assizes for Montgomery, Merioneth, and Cardigan have again shown ,0:se counties to be remarkably free from crime of a serious nature. In Montgomery a j ^ai'digan, where Mr Justice Mathew ^nd jV[r jus £ jce Bruce were the judges resPectively, both were presented with the customary pair of white gloves. Three civil 6 however, were tried at the Cardigan- e Assizes, and the business was continued *0r two days, and then had to be adjourned Carmarthen for completion. At the "Merionethshire Assizes, held before Mr U^tice Mathew, four young men charged With poaching on land near Corwen, in the OCcUpation of Mr C. H. Wynn, were ^tenced to six weeks' imprisonment each. Owen Williams, a tradesman of Festiniog, j o.was charged with committing perjury J1 the Festiniog Police Court, was found not sUllty and discharged. Whenever Edward 1. wanted subsidies the I' People demanded privileges in return and -w, we are told, was laid the basis of the **glish Constitution. The good folks on -T banks of the Dovey are evidently taking 2 leaf out of the book of the old Barons, and determined to profit by their example; a°r they are resolved to offer a vigorous I^d united opposition to the proposal of the | Jf^brian Railways Co. to deprive them of keir privileges by putting a fixed instead of C) | ~Swing bridge across the Dovey unless the j 0rnpany is prepared to meet them by liberal | Concessions in the way of public conveniences, f ^ovement is now on foot to get a new I \°n between Glandovey Junction and f the efforts to tap the railway [ y Gogarth, between the J unction and Aber- evidently failed. The proposed J li.ew stoppage would prove a great convenience I. to the inhabitants of Pennal and Derwenlas.