Welsh Gazette and West Wales Advertiser

BORTH. PRAYER MEETINGS.—United prayer meetings were held alternately each evening at the two Methodist Chapels during last week. OBITUARY.—We regret to record the death of Mr Clarke, son-in-law of Mr and Mrs Jones, Cambrian- terrace, at his residence at Huddersfield on Thursday last. Deceased leaves a wife, with whom much sym- pathy is felt. WANTON DAMAGE.-Great iudignation is felt in this neighbourhood at the destruction of the lamp at the south end of tbeivillage. A reward of five shillings will be given to anyone giving information that will lead to the discovery of the person or persons who com- mitted such wanton mischief. O

TREGARON. MORE PHOTOGRAPHS, and excellent ones too have been secured by Mr T W Jones, the station master. One shows the destructive nature of the late snow storm which swept Tregaron the broken telegraph wires and leaning poles telling their own tale in a snow covered railway tract. Others give us representations of the ruins on Eiddwen Lake, distant some tenmiles from Tre- garon. This is a noted place for fishing. The ruined buildings on the island were erected by Mr Treadwell, some twenty years or more ago, who then left everything and the neighbourhood. These are picturesque views and will well repay securing for any collection of Cardiganshire photographs. LISTT OF PRESENTS.—he following was the list of presents received by Mr and Mrs W. J. Jones (nee Miss Elsie Edwards, :Nantstalwen), Cefngaer, on the occasion of their recent marriage at St Caron's Church, a report of which has already appeared in our columns. Mrs Edwards, Nantstalwen, household linen Messrs Tom and James Edwards, Nantstalwen, te% service Miss Edwards, do, necklet aud muff; Misses S. and M. Edwards, do, chamber ware; Mr Jones, Cilpill, cheque; Mrs E. Jones, Berwyn Villa, Bible Mrs Dr Lloyd, Llys Einion, dinner service Miss Lloyd, do, silver salt cellars; Mrs James. Peithyll, silver coffee pot and jug; Mr D. Rowlands, Monmouth, silver sugar basin, cream jug, and teapot; Mr Jones, Berwyn Villa, cheque; Mrs Jones. Berwyn Villa, pair of pillow slips Mr Evan Hughes, Bont, case of carvers Miss Jones, Garth, Llanilar, damask table cloth Miss May Morgan, Porch, writing desk Miss Nellie Lloyd, Llys Einion, hem-stitched pillow slips Mr and Mrs Jones, Post Office, Tregaron, tea spoons and sugar tongs Mr and Mrs Evans, Albion, Tregaron, caseof cutlery Miss Jones, Lion, Tregaron, brass fire irons; Miss Jones, Emporium, do, table cover; Mrs Phil Rees, Tregaron, tea cosy; Miss Jones, Wernfelen, Bont; timepiece; Miss Beynon, Sunny Hill Hotel, pair of pillow slips; Mrs Arch, Dol Teify, Bont, table lamp Mr J. R. Jones, Cefngaer, cheque; Miss Jones, Cefngaer, cruet stand; Miss Jones, Sunny Hill lotel, jam dish Miss Morgans, Parcrhydderch, damask table cloth; Mr and Mrs Jones, Terrace-road, Bont, table cloth; Miss Lloyd, Penybont, table lamp Mrs Jenkins, Pencreigiau, Bont, pair of sheets Miss Mary Davies, Cilpill, tray cloth and pillow slips Mrs Davies, Tynewjrdd, Llangeitho, covers; Mrs Lloyd, Persondy, do, damask table cloth Mrs Jones, Pantsych, do, hand-painted jug; Miss Jones, Pentre, Tregaron, table cloth Miss Morgan, Bush, do, silver cruet stand Mrs Morgan, North End, do, money Mrs Davies, Cefnresgairfach, water bottle; Mrs Jones, liar House, money; Miss Agnes Rowlands, Llys Einion, silver jam spoons; Miss Mary Hughes, do, pair of fancy plates; Mrs Edwards, Moelprysgau, set of tea cups; Tom Edwards, Maesllyn, money Mr Lewis, Nantrhwch, money; Mrs Lewis, do, silver salt cellars. PARISH COUNCIL.-The monthly meeting of the Council was held on Friday evening last. The members present were Messrs H W Jones (chair- man), Eynon Williams (vice-chairman), ReesJones, E J Evans, E H Bebb, E Isaac Davies, and E C Evans.—A petition signed by the five inhabitants of Castell Flemish was read, stating that a barbed wire had been placed by Mr Wm Richards, Es- germaen, on the path leading from Blaenpennal to Swyddffynon thereby rendering it impassible for pedestrians. The path committee which con- sists of Messrs H W Jones, Thos Evans, and E J Evans, were asked to visit the place, and to re- port on this subject and also on the path which Richards obstructed a month ago when he was asked to take down the fence which he had placed on the Castell Flemish path, but it appears he has not yet complied with the Council's request.

Formation of a Co-operat- ive Society. a; FIRST LIST OF SHAREHOLDERS. A meeting of farmers, representative of the various districts in the Tregaron Union, was held at the Town Hall, Tregaron, on Tuesday afternoon, to hear an address on Co-operation by Mr D D Williams, U.C.W., and Mr T S Mason, chief agent to the Marquis of Ripon. This was the outcome of a recent meeting held at Tregaron, when an able address on The farm animals of Great Bri- tain was delivered by Mr D D Williams, who then urged upon the farmers the advantages of co-opera- tion. At Tuesday's meeting on the proposition of Mr Wm Jones, Ochor, Mr R S Rowlands, Garth, was voted to the chair. There was a representative attendance. After a few introductory remarks by the Chairman, Mr D D Williams addressed the meet- ing, and said that in order to raise agriculture from the low position which it now held, and to make the voice of agriculturists felt in the country and in Parliament, the only remedy was to adopt the principles of co-operation. There was an old saying that in unity there was strength, and if the farmers would unite and co-operate they could im- prove the present state of agriculture in this country. Railway Companys had their represen- tative in Parliament, but there was not one re- presentative of the agricultural interest simply because there was no unity amongst the farmers. Mr Williams spoke of the restrictions placed by the Government upon farmers, as com- pared with their privileges. If the farmer sold milk containing less than 3 per cent of butter fat, or butter containing more than a certain per centage of water, he was liable to be prosecuted. This showed the need for co-operation and representation of agri- cultural interests in Parliament, so that the diffic- ulties under which farmers laboured could be ex- plained and remedied by men who understood them. In Ireland ten or fifteen years ago there were no creameries, but at the present time there were 185, together with 55 auxiliaries. After the war between Denmark and Austria in 1864 the former country was reduced to an almost barren I state, and agriculture was at a low ebb. But the farmers wisely adopted the system of co-operation, with the result that at the present time it was one of the richest countries in the world, this being due to the unity of the farmers, their progress in wealth being almost entirely represented by their progress in agriculture. The Danes imported to Lancashire and Yorkshire alone a million hundred- weights of butter annually. Finland, Russia, and Siberia had all adopted the same system, and were now obtaining a monolopy of the English market. Mr Harries, secretary of the Agricultural Organ- isation Society, in his report, stated that when he came to such countries as Finland, Scandinavia, and Siberia, words failedjhim, but through co-opera- tion even these bad got a firm hold on the British market. Britain, with this foreign competition, was thus seriously handicapped, and if they did not adopt co-operation, in another twenty or thirty years agriculture would be in a still more deplor- able state. Five out of six parts of our tood supply at present was brought from foreign countries, while the remainding one-sixth only was grown in England and Wales. If this country found itself at war with continental powers it would result in a national calamity, and probably a dissolution of the Empire. The great object of co-operation was to do away with the middle-man, and bring his pro- fits into the farmers' pockets. Nowadays, they would notice staying at their best hotels travell- ers in manures and feeding stuffs, who went from place to place advertising their goods. These were the men who at least made fifty per cent profit. By doing away with these men, this money would find its way into the farmers' pockets instead. If the farmers co-operated they could secure all their goods direct from the manufacturers at wholesale prices. Another important advantage of co-operation was the improvement which could be effected in the stock of the farm. This would enable Welsh farmers to do away with small dealers and compete more favourably in the markets with breeders on better soil. A fur- ther advantage was that farmers could, by im- proving their pigs, consign them direct in large numbers to the Glamorganshire dealers, and make the best use of the privileges afforded by railway companies. Mr Williams also dealt with the in- tention of the promoters of co-operation to send out experts in agriculture to advise farmers as to the best methods of dealing with their holdings, and as to the purchase of manures and feeding of animals. Some of their best horses came from Montgomery and Carmarthenshire, simply because the farmers purchased some of the, best stallions that could be obtained in the 'country for breeding purposes. This society should also do the same as the Lampeter and Talsarn bull clubs in purchasing two or three good bulls, and to get each member to promise to keep the bulls. Mr Williams said that the Welsh farmers bad great room for improv- ment in the rearing of pigs. It seemed as if they were quite satisfied with their mongrel breed, but if they only knew that it took much longer to breed such animals than pure bred pigi they would soon alter their opinions. It would be a boon if the Society could purchase one or two pure bred boars and a few storers. He hoped that before long a bacon factory would be established in con- nection witn the Society, so that the farmer might obtain a better price for the ham and bacon than by selling the pig alive at a low figure. He be- lieved that the butter factories could be made to pay better than what they did at the present time. Mr Williams also said that farmers might go fur- ther, and establish credit banks, where a poor honest labourer could get the loan of a few pounds to improve his small stock, and would be an im- portant step toward retaining men on the land. By co-operation, it would also be possible to in- sure farm animals at a very reduced scale. In conclusion. Mr Williams hoped a Society would be establishel at once. Mr T S Mason, chief agent to the Marquis of Ripon, also delivered an address at the invitation of Mr Williams. He said he was at present repre- senting the Agricultural Organisation Society, and was making enquiries into the system of work- ing butter factories. He found that in every case where societies were managed by private indi- viduals, the thing was a failure, but wherever it was ran by the farmers the thing was a success, as at Lampeter and Llandilo. One great objec- tion farmers had to butter factories was the fact that the skimmed milk could not be utilised for making cheese and rearing calves. He, however, thought that with the proper use of linseed and other feeding stuff, the cream removed could be properly and efficiently substituted. One great difficulty in the management of these factories was the insufficient supply of milk in the winter time. This, he thought; could be overcome by the farm- ers regulating the time of calving. The speaker referred to the Skelldale butter factory in York- shire, startei by himself, in a district where dairy- ing was almost unknown and where farmers who at one time kept only a few cows had now more than trebled the number, and by running the factory as their own concern-having taken it over after it had been shown to work success- fully—had, between the prices received for the milk and the dividends, realised on an average Is 4d per lb. for their butter. In Wales farmers seemed perfectly satisfied if they could average Is per lb. If farmers desired to cope with foreign competition they must get high class machinery, which would enable them to turn out farm produce at a cheaper rate. Moreover, he thought that by getting qualified men to manage these factories, a substantial profit might be made by the manufacture of cheese. When first started, the Skelldale Factory manufactured cheese which r on an average realised 8d per lb. Now the prices for such realized on an average lOd per lb. Mr Mason said the Society he represented would be glad at all times to give any information it could, and he hoped the farmers of this district would turn the advice given them that day into good and profitable account (applause.) Mr Herberts said the Co-Operative Society at Lledrod, which had been registered under tbe Agri- cultural Organisation Society, had done good work and was now in a flourishing condition. The advice given them by that Society had been invaluable and much light had been thrown on the question of co-operation. Mr D. D. Williams suggested that each member should take a few 6s shares, Is 6d of which to be paid at that meeting, and that twelve persons should act as a committee to represent the districts of Tre- garon, Bont, Llanio, Llanddewi, Llangeitho, and the other districts, and this suggestion was adopted, the committee appointed were Messrs R S Thomas, JenKin Lloyd, Charles Powell, Wm Jones Ochor ^°°es Waunfawr; D D Evans, Llanio-isaf Hugh W l iiams, Derigaron Thomas Davies, Pantybeudy Hall; Dr E Lloyd M Morgan, Blaengors; S Jones, Maesglas; and J Williams, Pontargamddwr. It was agreed that the Society be called The Tregaron Agricultural Society, Ltd. and that it be registered in the Agricultural Organisation Society. A hearty vote of thanks to the Chairman and speakers concluded the meeting. The following is a list of those who have already taken shares in the Society-R S Rowlands, Garth, b; u J Williams, Abercoed, 6; Thomas Davies, Pantybeudy Hall, 6; C W Le Brun Powell, Glan- brenig, 5; Dr Lloyd, Tregaren, 5; Hugh Williams, Derigaron, 4; John Thomas, Cilrug, 4; D D Evans, T A"10' 5," Williams, Pontargamddwr, 4; Jenkin Lloyd, Pant, 3; William Jones, Ocbr, 3; J Morgan, Glangors, 3; John Jones, Pencefn, 3; A n ^0ne8» ^aesglas, 3; John Rowlands, Tyn- dolau, 3; Morgan Jones, Penbont, 3; Morgan Morgans, Workhouse, 3; J Edwards. Nantstalwen, 2. Shares, five shillings each. Twelve members were elected on the committee of management. Messrs R S Rowlands was appointed treasurer, and Mr D D Williams secretary. BOARD OF GUARDIANS. The fortnightly meeting of the Guardians of the Tregaran Union was hold at the Town Hall or. Tuesday last, the chairman, Mr D J Williams, pre- siding. There were also present Messrs Rees Evans (vice-chairman), John Jones, Caron Lower Evan Lloyd, Blaenpennal Evan Evans, Lledrod Lower; David Davies, Gorwydd; 'John Owen, Llanbadarn- Odwyn; Peter Davies, Llangeitho; R S Rowlands and D D Evans, Llanio United; William Owen, Lledrod Upper; David Williams. Bettws Leiki; H Herberts, Nantcwnlle; with J Lloyd (clerk), M Morgan (master), and Rees Rowlands (relieving officer). ACKNOWLEDGMENT. The Clerk said that he had received a reply from Mr Richard Jones, Cefngaer, the member for Ysbytty Ystwyth, acknowledging the receipt of the resolution passed at the last meeting of the Board, sympathising with him in his indisposition. Mr Jones, in his letter, said he hoped to be amongst them again soon. This announcement was received by all the mem- bers with unmixed satisfaction. STATISTICS. Amount of out relief administered during the past fortnight, per Mr Rees Rowlands, relieving officer, was £40 14s to 130 paupers corresponding period last year, £3S 12s 6d to 137 paupers. Num- ber of inmates in the house, 27, corresponding period last year. 33 number of vagrants relieved during the past fortnight, 27. DISTRICT COUNCIL. Mr Hugh Herberts presided ever a meeting of this council on Tuesday last. There were also in attendance Dr E Lloyd (medical officer), Messrs S Tregonning and Morgan Jones (surveyors). The committees of the Northern and Southern districts of the High way Committee presented their reports, which showed that they had examined the quarterly accounts and found them correct.—Mr D J Williams urged upon the Surveyor to engage a person to work on the Tregaron road. He thought they should pay better attention to the- roads in Tregaron. as they paid as much rates there as any- where.—The Surveyor promised to put a person to work on the road as soon as possible.—Mr Evan Evans, Tynewydd, called the attention of the two surveyors to the need for farmers to prune their hedges before the busy season came in.—The Sur- veyors said that numerous notices had been posted, but only a few had been complied with.—Mr John Jones, Crown and Anchor, called the Council's at- tention to the road leading from Maesalwad, which was in a bad state of repair. It was only a fort- night ago that he, in the company of other persons, travelled over the road. when the wheel went into a ditch, breaking the two shafts.—Mr Rees Evans pointed out that pipes had been ordered to be laid down at that place.-The Survevor said that it would be useless putting pipes there to drain the road, but he would see that the road received his attention.—It was resolved to erect a footbridge at Tynllechwedd.—Mr Evan Evans said that there would be hardly any cost. The carpenter would do the work at a low rate, and he hoped the Council would contribute a little. The carting would be done by the local farmers. 4.

MACHYNLLETH. A TRYING EXPEIUNCE.-An experience of an un- pleasant nature befel a young man, named Mr Edward Marpole Thomas, living at Iorwerth-torrace, Machynlleth, on Saturday night last. He is a carpen- ter by trade, and on the previous Wednesday set out to walk to Rhayader in search of work. From what can be gathered lie returned on Saturday, reaching the village of Forge, about two miles from Mach- ynlleth, between ten and eleven o'clock. He was there suddenly struck ill, and collapsed on the road- side, falling into a ditch containing water. No one seems to have heard his moans, and he remained all night in a helpless state where he had fallen. He was found about nine o'clock on Sunday morning in a pitiable condition by Mr Thomas Rowlands, Forge, who had him immediately conveyed to a neighbouring house. Restoratives were applied, and Dr Matthews was sent for, who found the young man suffering from paralysis. Later in the day he was removed home, where he still remains seriously ill. ILLNBSS.—Mr Bollan, head wood ranger on the Londonderry estate, is lying seriously ill at his residence, Doll-street. Dr A. O. Davies is in attend- ance. Mr Hugh Jones, nephew of Mr Edward Morgan, solicitor, is also indisposed at his uncle's residence, Maengwyn Uclia. We are glad to learn that Mrs Thomas, the lady member of the Hoard of Guardians, and Mr John Jones, Esger Hall, are recovering from their recent illnesses. 9 LITERARY SOCIETY.—The Literary Society con- nected with the Welsh Wesleyan Chapel held a meeting on Monday evening, the Rev J. D. Jones, pastor, presiding. Two able and interesting papers were read, one by Mr W. O. Jones on Ymddygiad yn moddion gras," and the other by Miss Margaret A. Lewis on Gwasanaeth merched ieuanc yn Eglwys Dduw." The meeting proved an enjoy- able one. DEATH.—There passed away on Wednesday in last week, at Penrallt-street, Mary, widow of David Humphreys, carrier. Her husband had predeceased her by less than a month, lie, it will be remembered. having died at Aberystwyth Infirmary. She was 49 years of age, and had been ailing for nearly two years. The funeral took place at the cemetery on Saturday, the Rev Josiah Jones oiffciating. Four sons and two daughters are left to mourn their loss. THE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL re-opened after the Christmas vacation on Monday. ENTERTAINMENT.—A good, rollicking entertainment is promised by the Machynlleth Merry Coons at the Town Hall this (Thursday)jevening. The Coons are an amateur troupe of distinctly superior ability, and as the proceeds are to be devoted to such a deserving institution as the Cottage Hospital it is hoped there will be a full house. SHOOTING COMPETITION.—There were seven com- petitors at the range on Saturday last, the scores being as follows: —Colour-sergeant Jones 70, Ser- geant-instructor Wilson 69, Corporal Hughes 69, Corporal Leek 58, Private Pearce 46, Sergeant Piddock 32, and Private Burry 20. The silver spoon was awarded to the first named. FOOTBALL.—The local football team visited Towyn on Saturday, and engaged the Towynites in a friendly game. The result was a victory for the homesters by three goals to one. Next Saturday Machynlleth willi journey to Bala to play the Bala Press team in the fourth round of the Welsh junior cup competition. PLENTY OF GLORY, BUT POOR PAY.—Efforts are being made to raise another section of volunteers belonging to the South Wales Borderers for service in South Africa. The number of candidates forthcoming is very small, the chief impediment being the rate of pay, which is the magnificent (sic) sum of one shill- ing per day. By enrolling themselves as Yeomanry, the men point out, they would be paid at the rate of five shillings per day, and this inequality on the part of the War Office is warmly criticised. DOVEY FISHERY ASSOCtATION.-Much surprise has been caused in Machynlleth and district bv a notice which has been served by Sir Watkin Bart., on Mr Lascelles, secretary of the Dovey Fishery Association, to terminate on March 25th next, the agreement which has existed for several years as to the fishing of the river Dovey. The fishing hashitherto been leased to the Association at a rental of L20 per annum, which sum Sir Watkin returned to the associa- tion as a subscription. The matter is one which affects Machynlleth closely, as the sport draws a large number of visitors to the town. The Urban District Council considered it at a special meeting held on Friday last, when it was decided that the Clerk write to the Dovey Association asking what steps were to be taken, and whether the Council could be of assist- ance in any way. A meeting of the Dovey Associa- tion is to be held in the course of a few days. NURSING LECTURES.—Mr Richard Rees, J.P., Paris House, has done a public service in inducing the Montgomeryshire Technical Instruction Committee to arrange a course of lectures on nursing to be delivered at Machynlleth. The lecturess will be Miss Draper, Aberystwyth College, and the course will last for a fortnight, consisting of three lectures each week. The first lecture will be given on January 28th. OLD POLICE STATION.—Acting upon instructions received from the Montgomery County Council, Mr ?„avies Willi?ms offered for sale at the Lion Hotel on Wednesday in last week, the old police station buildings. Bidding was not brisk, the highest offer being £270, at which figure the property was with- drawn. The property was subsequently sold by private treaty to Mr Edmund Gillart for £ 305. DISTRICT COUNCIL.—A special meeting of the Urban District Council was held on Friday last, when the question of the town sewerage was further discussed, and instruction? given the Surveyor therein. Mr Richard Owen and the Clerk were appointed to inter- view Lady Londonderry's agents astoobtaining terms for extracting water from Cwmrwden stream to aug- ment the town supply. DONATION.—Mr J. Rowlands announced at the I English Presbyterian Sunday School on Sunday last that he had received from Switzerland a donation of £3 towards the building fund of the new schoolroom. The kind donor is Mademoiselle Gslle, who formerly resided at Machynlleth. MAENGWYN LITERARY SOCIETY.—The Rev R. R. Williams, M.A., Towyn, addressed the members of Maengwyn Literary Society on Tuesday evening, on the life and influence of Henry Drumnnnd. There was a good attendance, and the address was an intellectual treat. The Rev W. S. Jones, M.A., presided. DEATH OF MR ALFRED HARRIS.—We regret having to record the death of Mr Alfred Harris, of Glasfryn, which took place on Monday evening week last. The deceased, who was in his 44th year, had been all his life engaged in railway work, and after starting with the Midland Railway entered the service of the Cam- brian Railways Company, in whose employ he has been for the last 27 years. For nearly eleven years lie occupied the important post of stationmaster at this place, but owing- to a nervous break-down retired from active work some three years ago. Since that time he has suffered much. The deceased married a daughter of Mr Wm Cooke, of Newtown, and she, with four daughters and two sons, survive. One of the sons is at present serving his country at the front, and the other returned home from active service some twelve months ago, having gone out with the Mont- gomeryshire Volunteers. The fun»ral took place on Thursday and was largely attended. The Rev Canon Travor and the Rev D T Hughes officiated at the houso and graveside. The old staff of the station acted as bearers, and Mr Pryce, stationmaster, of Welshpool, was also present. The service in the. church was fully choral, Mr HoweS presiding at the organ and playing the Dead March. Beautiful wreaths were placed on the coffin and the grave by the following: —From the Family Traffic Department, Machyn- lleth Mr and Mrs Coggan, Peterborough; Mr W and Mr F W Cooke, Newtown: Mr A S Cooke; "Little Dick," tile only grand child; Mrs John Morris and children; Mrs Morgan, Station House; Mr and Mrs Gribble, Plas Gardens and Mr and Mrs Sadleir, Glyndwr Hotel. Mr R Rees was the undertaker, and the coffin was made by Mr J Williams. Mrs Harris Glyndwr Hotel. Mr R Rees was the undertaker, and the coffin was made by Mr J Williams. Mrs Harris and family desire to thank all who have so readily showed their sympathy with them on this very sad occasion. O- -A

ABERAYRON. The Welsh Gazette.-The circulation of the Gazette has gone up considerably in this dis- trict. It is sold at Aberayron at Mr Jno. Jones, Bookseller, Alban-square. It may be obtained also at Llanon, Pennant, Aberartb, Llanarth, Cross IIlo, Llanrhystyd, Felinfach, Talsarn, New Quay, Llwyn- dafydd, and numerous other places. BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—The fortnightly meet- ing of the Aberayron Board of Guardians was held on Wednesday, the 8th instant, when there were present-Mr J M Jones, Cilcennin (chairman) Mr A Lloyd Rees, Llanarth (vice-chairman); Mrs Jones and Mrs Griffiths, Aberayron Messrs John Davies, Llansilio; Samuel Evans, Llanllvvchaiarn; W Thomas, New Quay J C Jones, Llanarth; J M Howell, Henfynyw; T Jonathan, Ciliau United; J W Davies, Cyciplwyf; John Davies, Llanbadarn, Trefeglwys D Jones and John Jones, Llanfihangel- Ystrad D M Rowlands and Stephen Davies, Lbn- santffraid; together with Messrs W Evans and A L Thomas (relieving officers); Griff Evans (master) and B C Jones (clerk). Christvias Dinn--r.-The Master reported that the Christmas dinner had been given by the Guardians to the inmates. Vote of Condolence.—Mr J C Jones proposed, and Mr J W Davies seconded, a vote of condolence with Mr Lloyd Rees on the death of his only child, and this was carried. Medical Officers! Reports.—The Medical Officers' reports re lunatics and foster-children were presented. The Case ef Rogers.-A letter was read from Major Price Lewis expressing the hope that the Guardians would re-consider the case of the old soldier Rogers, who lives near Rhiwlas. After a discussion, the former decision of the Guardians was adhered to—that Rogers be offered admittance to tbe House and the use of an ambulance. The Medical O#icer.-A letter was read from the Local Government Board to Dr Williams, the medical officer for the Llansantffraid district, respecting the cases of Sarah Evans and Ann Davies, which had been reported to tne Board by the Guardians some time previously. The letter was as follows:—"Local Government Board, 4th January, 1902. Sir-I am directed by the Local Government Board to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 7th ult with reference to your proceedings as medical officer of the Llan- santffraid district of the Aberayron Union in the case of Sarah Evans and Ann Davies. In reply, the Board direct me to point out that, loooking to previous complaints, it is most necessary that every care should be taken by you as to the manner in which you examine pauper patients, and as to placing the name of every such patient in a proper manner in your Medical Relief Book, and further that it is your duty to revisit such cases when necessary without waiting for an order instructing you to do so. The Board at the same time direct me to state that they trust you will endeavour to work harmoniously with the Guardians in all matters connected with your duty as their medical officer. The newspaper extracts which accompanied your letter are returned herewith.—I am, Your obedient servant, W. E. Knellys, Asst. Sec." A long discussion of the letter took place, Mr J M Howell stating that the Local Government Board upheld the action of the Guardians in respect of every point which the Guardians had considered a grievance. He complained that Dr Williams rarely attended their meetings, and then generally because lie had been specially requested to do so. It was rather strange that the Board had not sent down a copy ot Dr Williams' reply for their perusal, as was done in the Cilcennin case. They had on their part acted openly and fairly before their Medical Officer and the Board—and they expected the Board to treat them with the same measure of confidence. He therefore moved that an application be made for a copy of Dr Williams' communication to the Local Government Board. Mr J Jones seconded, adding that he thought the presence of the Medical Officer at their meetings to be most necessary and essential. Mr T Davies and Mr J C Jones supported, and the motion was carried unanimously. SUCCESS.—Miss Elizabeth Anne Davies, a pupil teacher at the Aberayron National School, success- fully passed the recent Collective Examination of Pupil Teachers. She has passed "well," and has no subject marked against her. PRAYER MEETINGS.—Prayer meetings were held in the different places of worship on each day of the week, excepting Saturday. Since the unfortu- nate and unseemly estrangement between the powers that rule the constitutional affairs of the Peniel and Tabernacle congregations that first took place on the occasion of the last thanksgiving services, it has evidently been decided to carry on the great cause of Christianity by each little group of so-called and most often self-styled Christians worshiping on its own narrow doorstep, and sett- ing forth its own weak prayer from its own place. Let us hope that the prayers will receive a better reply than the mean manner and method of carry- ing prayer Meetings on at Aberayron deserve. ANOTHER FEARED TRAGEDY OF THE SEA.— Much anxiety is felt as to the fate of S.S. Franklyn," which is now overdue several weeks. She left Penarth for Malta on 11th December, and has not been heard of or seen since. It is greatly, feared that she went down the very first night in the boisterous weather which then prevailed. The eldest on of Captain and Mrs Thomas, Vulcan- place, Mr John O. Thomas, was second officer on the ship. The greatest sympathy is felt with them in their anxiety and trouble. Thus are we once more and continually brought to realize what a long and terrible tragedy is the story of the sea. The sea the cruel merciless and all-powerful sea has a deal to answer for,.in the way of broken hearts and miserable lives. OBITUARY.—A gloom has been cast over all the townspeople by the death, owing to smallpox, of Mr John Lloyd Lewis, Chemist. He had been home over the festive season, and it is believed that he was subject to the dread malady at that time, but it developed rapidly soon after he re- turned to London. He died in the Small Pox Hospital on Friday afternoon, and was buried on Monday afternoon, Mr Compton Davies having charge of the arrangements for burial. His sudden and unexpected decease due to this awful scourge puts an end to a most promising life of usefulness. His ability in medicinal matters and his exceptional skill in bone-setting—which he inherited from his father—were well-known all over the district. Persons with broken or sprained limbs resorting to him from great distance. He had for the Jast five years studied medicine at the London Hospital, with a view to qualifying as a doctor, and he would in all probability have completed his course in six months or so more. The Trinity Church bells were tolled on Monday afternoon, the time the funeral was taking place in London, An impressive funeral service was held by the vicar, the Rev J. M. Griffiths at the time, when there was a crowded congregation of townspeople to do honour to the deceased. Mr Lloyd Lewis was held in great respect. He was one of the large and well-known family of Tyddyndu, Mydroilyn. He served his apprenticeship as a chemist in Swansea, and after- wards bought the business of the late Mr J. P. Jones, in Bridge-street, Aberayron. Some years ago his name figured largely in the advertising columns of the press as the proprietor and sole manufacturer of a remedy for rheumatism and kindred complaints. He was a faithful member of the Trinity Church in this town. Much sympathy is felt for the widow and two children, who are left to mourn his sudden loss.

LLANON. GBAND CONCERT.—The annual New Year's con- cert was held at the National Schoolroom on New Year's Eve. and like all its predecessors turned out a great success. The chair was taken by Dr Davies, Aberayron, and the programme was opened with a "-——— pianoforte duet by the Misses Rosa Lewis and Rosetta. Jones, both of the Carmarthen High School. Songs were given by Miss L, M. Jones, Aberystwyth; Miss- Thomas, Gwastod; Miss James, Star of Wales; Miss Jenkins, Strata; Miss Evans, Commercial; Messrs David Davies, D. S. Davies, J. D. Thomas, E. Davies, and D. L. Jenkins. The Ladies' Choir and the Male Voice Party also added several pleasing items to the programme. Miss L. M. Jones deserves special mention. The rendering of Clementine was also very gocd. The part of accompanist was taken by Miss Jones, Roseland. The concert finished bv the singing of God Save the King by Miss L. M. Jones. The duties of stage and business managers were taken respect- ively by Mr D. Davies, Bridge-street, and Captain Jenkins, Monvylfa. Thanks are due to all the- above for their hearty assistance.

LLANDYSSUL. CONCERT.—The twenty-eighth Calan-Hen concert was held at the Porth Assembly Rooms on Monday evening last. As in former years the concert was vrell-attended, and proved a great, success. The laughable farce entitled April Fools" was performed in an admirable manner. A better programme could not have been arranged, and all those who took part in it did their b"t- The programme was as follows :—Pianoforte duett, Misses Muriel and Delia Williams, L.L.C.M.; song, The Bugler," Mr Robert Lewis song, Deigryn ar Fedd Mam," Miss Mary Close; song, "Gipsy Maiden," Madame Rose Pritchard; song, 11 The Soldier's Grave," Rev F Long-Price; song, There's a Land," Miss Ellen Dummer duett," I wander in dreams," Madame Rose Pritchard and Rev John Jones chorus, Wyr Philistia," Male Voice Party 7 comique song. Mr D. J. Morris; trio, This Magic Wove Scarfe," Madame Rose Pritchard, Rev F. Long-Price, and Mr Robert Lewis ;flute solo, Mr W. G Edwards comique song, Mr D. J. Morris part- song, The Psalm of Life," Male Voice Party song The Wolf" Mr Robert Lewis song, 0, Divine Redeemer," Miss Ellen Drummer song. The Car- nival," Rev F. Long-Price; song. Fy Hen Gymraeg," Madame Rose Pritchard song, "Japanese Love Song," Miss Mary Close; duett, Miss Ellen Dummer and Mr Robert Lewis; comique song, Mr D. J. Morris quartette, The Sea hath, its Pearls Madame Rose Pritchard, Miss Ellen Dummer, Rev F. Long-Price, and Mr Robert Lewis. 0 THE NURSING ASSOCIATION.—A movement it now on foot in this place to engage ithe services of a qualified cottage nurse for the district. A pre- liminary committee has been formed, and on Tuesday week a meeting was Jbeld at the Porth Hotel, under the presidency of the Hon Mrs Stewart, Alltyrodyn. There were also present Mrs Lloyd, Gilfachwen Mrs Jones, Gellifabaren Mrs Williams, the Tonn Mrs Davies, Post Office; Mrs Evans. Glanteify; Mrs Rees, Bank; Mrs Mitchell, Fair View; Mrs Smith, Porth Hotel; the Rev Mr Jenkins. vicar; Deputy Chief Constable' Williams, and Mr T Evans, Board School. Mrs Stewart, the organiser of this good movement, ex- a plained in lucid terms the object of the meeting, and said that it was to engage the services of a qualified resident nurse for the district. Having fully explained the object of the meeting, the hon. lady made an earnest appeal for subscriptions to- wards maintaining a nurse. A subscription list was opened, and the sum of about £15 was col- lected' made up as follows :—The Hon Mrs Stewart, iZ5 10f Mrs Lloyd. 93; Mrs Jones, Mrs Williams, Mrs Davies, Mrs Evans, Mrs Smith, and Mrs Rees, one guinea each Mrs Mitchell, 10s 6d; and Mr T Evans, 5s. Arrangements were made to canvass the district, and a sum of about £50 has we understand, been collected. D.C.C. Williams, in proposing a vote of thanks to the Hon Mrs Stewart, said that they all valued the services of Mrs Stewart immensely, and especially for the pains she bad taken in this humanitarian and much-to-be-desired object. He was surprised to find that the place had been so long without a nurse, but now be hoped, from the spirit shown by the inhabitants, that a nurse would at once be engaged. He felt sure that the movement would reflect the greatest credit upon the con- vener. The Vicar concurred, and having seconded the resolution, the vote was carried unanimously.

NEWCASTLE EMLYN. PRAYER MEETINGS.—Prayer meetings were held during last week at all the Nonconformist Chapels, and were well attended. RATE COLLECTOR.—At the last meeting of the Parish Council, Mr William Davies, of Teify- terrace, was appointed assistant overseer for the Llandyfriog Parish, in place of Mr A H Maurice, who resigned. The salary is about iE22 per annum. ANTHEM SINGI.NG.-On Sunday evening last at Bethel Chapel, the congregation sang an anthem,. Holy, Hoiy," which was admirably rendered and highly appreciated. Chants were also sung during divine service. TESTIMONIAL.—A meeting was held at the Reading Room on Friday evening, when it was unanimously decided to present Mr Murphy,, late excise officer of the town, with a testimonial, as a slight recognition of his services during his six years' stay in this locality, The chairman. Mr E E Mathias, spoke in complimentary terms of Mr Murphy's good qualities. He was, said Mr Mathias, of a kind disposition, and always exer- cised great tact and wisdom in the fulfilment of his duties as an excise officer, and also took a keen interest in everything pertaining to the welfare of the town. Mr A Hughes, N & P Bank, was ap- pointed Secretary, and Mr Wm Jeremy, Sussex House, treasurer. Friends were also named as collectors. Before the meeting terminated, the sum of L5 7s 6d was collected in the room. THE ALLEGED ASSAULT CASE.—At the Police Station on Friday, before Dr J. Powell, Jno Jones, of Cilie, charged with wounding Captain Griffiths in December last, surrendered to his bail. He was again iemanded upon the same sureties for eight days. We are glad to state that Captain Griffiths makes a fair progress towards recovery, but it is not expected be will be able to attend the police court for a fortnight or three weeks. WHO WILL MovE ? —It is a pity that no steps are being taken to provide the young men of the town with some counter attractions to the evil in- fluence of congregating every evening in public houses, and wasting their time in a worse than aim- less purpose, They have no other place to go to and amuse themselves but the pub," Will not our clergy, ministers, deacons, and others make a little effort to save the young men from frequent- ing such places. Other towns have found the means to do this—and successfully to-by provid- ing lectures and debating societies, and organising institutes for young men where they can spend their leisure time with pleasure and profit, to themselves, and to the credit and advantage of the community.

LLANGEITHO. HOME COMING OF SERGEANT EDWARD WILLIAMS. Great preparations had been made to welcome the return of Sergeant Edward Williams, Lletemddu, Llangeitho, who arrived in England from South Africa last week, and came home on Wednesday, arriving at Pont I-laiiio Station by the 7-23 p.m. train, Sergt Williams, who belongs to the South Wales Borderers, had been at the front for about three years, and his letters home which have appeared from time to time in the "Gazette, have been read with great interest by his numerous friends. He is not only popular and highly-esteemed by all who know him, but he is ad- mitted by all to be a soldier of sterling worth. He has taken an active part in some of the most fierce engagements of the war. The chief promoters of the welcome-home demonstration were Mr R S Row- lands (Garth), and Mr T Field Edge. A large crowd awaited the train, and on Mr Williams making his appearance lie received a great ovation. Three tri- umphal arches had been erected—one at Pont Llanio Station, one at Rattal, and another at Lletemddu. The Tregaron Baud had been engaged, and it headed the procession wnich escorted Sergt Williams to his home. The reception accorded the popular soldier all along the route was very enthusiastic.

GOGINAN. MARWOLAETH AR FAES Y GAD.—Bydd yn flin gan lawer glywed am farwolaeth Mr Johnny D Williams, mab hoff Mr a Mrs Williams, Great Percy Street, Llundain, gynt o Goginan. a brawd i Mrs Jonathan, Mornington House. Ymunodd yr ymadawedig a'r Remington Scouts yn mis Mawrth diweddaf, ac wedi ymladd llawer brwydr, ac enill llawer buddugoliaeth i'w wlad, bu farw o'r enteric fever yn Standerton, Deheu Affrica, Ionawr 4ydd, yn 22ain oed. Arferai dreuho el wyIiau yma bob haf, ac enillodd barch ac edmygedd y trigolion fel wachgen o gymeriad pur a dirhodres. Nawdd y nef fo ar y teulu yn eu galar dwys. Ergyd trwm idd ei rieni, Oedd ei golli ef fel hyn; Heb un cyflei weinyddu, Arno yn nghysgodau'r glyn. Heb gyfleusdra i ffarwelio Ac. i ysgwyd llaw ag ef, 11 Pan o faes y gad 'n 'mado. Am heddychol faes y nef. Balm i'w clwy f'ai cael eneinio, n *mewn estron wlad,. Gyda 1- dagrau sydd yn treiglo Ogalonau mam a'thad. A ebael planu Iiii byfi-vd Ar ei gysegredig fedd I arwyddo swyn ei fywyà, A thlysineb byw ei wedd. Sued yr awelon effro, Wrth fynd heibio Salmau hedd: Engyl nefoedd fyddo'n gwylio Yn warcheidiol dros ei fedd. CYFAILL. Planted and Published by the Proprietor, GEORGB REES, at the "WELSH GAZETTE "Printeries Bridge-street, Aberystwyth, in the County of Cardigan, Thurdav. Januarv 16th, 1902.