The Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Times

CAERSWS RURAL COUNCIL. Mr Joseph Davies presided over the monthly meeting of this Authority at the Workhouse on Wednesday after the Guardians had completed their business. PROPOSAL TO SEPARATE OFFICES OF SURVEYOR AND INSPECTOR. Mr Thomas Jones, according to notice of the motion, proposed that the minutes of the Council of the 17th and 23rd 'May, 1905, dividing the dis- trict into two divisions and combining offices of Surveyor and Inspector for each division and fix- ing of salaries be rescinded, and he had also given notice to move a further resolution on the matter. Mr Jones referred to the amalgamation of the orticea fi va years ago, and said that this was only an experiment, and the seriousness of the question of the Caorsws water supply and the insanitary conditions of many of their dwellings made it necessary that they should change the system under which they were operating at the present time. After the amalgamation of the offices five years ago they had lost a sum of .£60 a year, as the Local Government Board had not sanctioned the appointments of the Inspector, and therefore did not refund to them half of the salaries. The Local Government Board had all along emphasized the importance of appointing one man to discharge the duties of Sanitary Inspector. If they did this it would mean that they would pay say X140 to the Jnspector and X140 to the Surveyor for the district that would total X280, but they would get back .£70, reducing the amount to .£210, which would be .£10 to the good as the total salary was now X220, It was di ult for one man to occupy both positions, as thefjurveyor had to secure the help of the tenants ana landlords to assist in haulage, etc., and in the capacity of Inspector he would have to send in notices threat- ening those very same gentlemen. It was placing the officer in a very embarassing position. One man could not possibly have his mind concen- trated upon totally different duties at the same time, consequently one of them must suffer. Is might be said that one man could not cover the whole district. In answer to that he would say that it was done by nne man who could not cycle. The late Mr Edmunds, father of Mr Vaughan Edmunds did the main roads as well, and did them as well as they were done to-day. The offices were now carried on under great difficulties and he was sure the dwellings of their villages and the pollutions that were allowed to go into the water supply of the villages would be much improved if they put more authority in the hands the Surveyor. The Local Government Board, who was the ultimate authority in public health administration, refused to sanction the present arrangements, and the sooner the better they realised the futility of carrying on under the present condition. If they appointed one man to the office of Inspector he would be more powerful, and have more authority behind him. At the present time the office was merely a farce. Mr J. P. Francis suggested that the matter, being an important one, should be referred to a committee. Mr T. Jones You have had the matter under consideration since the issue of the agenda. Mr Price Pugh, after some waiting, said that be was on the Board when it was altered some four or five years since. The Chairman: Are you going to second Mr Jones ? AS PRACTICAL FARMERS. Mr Pagh Yes, I am seconding the motion. He always felt that the change was not for the benefit of the Council. He was convinced that it was not beneficial for the ratepayers, nor for the thorough discharge of the different offices, combined as they were at present. When a man's mind was set on two things it could never set so well as if set on one. and he believed it was not as it should be, that one man should be Surveyor and Inspector. It had been said that the surveyor had a good deal more mileage to cover now, bnt he would be able to see. whether the work had been done by going over the roads. They, as practical farmers, could not follow their men every day, but when they passed over the ground and saw what they had done, they were able to judge whether the men had done a day's work or not. Their surveyors could not follow the men every day; he did not know that they saw the surveyor in his parish any oftener now than under the old system, but he could see on his rounds whether the work had been attended to. He thought it would be better for them as ratepayers and officers and the whole district at large to do away with the present system, and adopt again the old one. Mr Edmunds did the whole of the roads under the old system. He thought it would be a decided improvement to change in the way suggested. They should have a sum of money to divide between the officers or the ratepayers as they thought fit. The Chairman said that Mr Davies was paid £ 80 as sanitary inspector, and Mr Edmuuds paid .£160 as surveyor. That made £ 24:0. Mr David Lloyd asked if the Clerk could tell them how high a salary they could give the inspector and get the half allowed by the Ex- chequer ? The Clerk referred to the legal books arranged on the table, and said that in an urban area the Act said that no less a salary than .£20 should be paid to a sanitary inspector. There was no refer- ence to rural areas as to the amount th3y could pay. The Chairman: They sanctioned Mr Davies' appointment at .£80. I do not know whether they were prepared to do it to-day. Mr David Lloyd: This is an important change, and they should get all the information they could as to the matters concerned. Possibly their officers would be asking for an increase apart from this thing, and they must prepate to meet these emergencies. The Chairman said that he was in the minority when the change was made, bat the seconder of the motion now, voted for the amalgamation then (laughter). Mr Pugh: I was in favour then of retaining Mr Davies. Mr Whitticase suggested that the matter should be deferred for a month. A SERIOUS POSITION AT CAERSWS. Mr Thomas Jones said that the seriousness of the Caersws water supply and the pollution of the wells, and so on, were urgent matters. There bad nothing been done in the way of sanitation or hygiene of any kind, and it was incumbent upon them as councillors to move in the matter. Mr Whitticase: It will not be very long delayed by postponing it for a month. I Mr Jones: This is the critical time with the water supply. Mr Whitticase moved that the matter be deferred for three months. Mr Richard Evans said that he was in favour of the rejection of the motion or the postpone- ment of the matter. Mr Jones advanced several reasons for the change. One reason was that they should by getting a grant for the sanitary inspector, raise the salaries to .£280. Mr Jones That is only a suggestion. Mr Evans said that he believed if they got a grant it would come practically from the pocket of the same ratepayers. The grants were given by the County Council. The Clerk, on being asked, said that the grant came out of the county fund, and debited to the exchequer contribution. Therefore they got it from the National Exchequer. After the County Council Act the amount was paid through the County Council. He believed the amount came from the licenses of the county. Mr Evans, continuing, said that another argu- ment for the change was that if the work of the Surveyor could be done effectually by Mr Edmunds, the late surveyor, surely it could be done now. Everyone of them could say that it was not done effectually. That was one of the reasons why they wanted the change. Mr Edmunds was under a disability, and an active man could not superintend the whole district adequately, and they could not expect one man to do the work effectually. Under present arrange- ments, even, their Surveyors were not able to visit places often enough, and surely if they covered the whole district they would not be able to do so. He seconded the amendment to post- pone the question for three months. On a vote being asked it was found that Mr Price Pugh, who seconded the motion, voted for the amend- ment. The Clerk: Didn't you second the motion, Mr Pugh ? Mr Pugh: Yes. The Clerk: If you withdraw your seconding the motion falls through. Mr PughVI do not withdraw my seconding, but I agree to it being postponed for three months. Mr Pugh then dropped his hand, and the voting counted as follows: For the amendment 13. for for the motion three. The Chairman declared the -amendment carried. A QUESTION OF BYE-LAWS. Mr Thomas Jones then further moved that bye- laws be adopted for the district for scavenging r and cleaning, and t're prevention of nuisances. | There was no doubt, he said, that they needed to strengthen the hands of their Inspectors, and, unless they supported them, there was no possi- 1 bility of their insisting on the cleansing of any < premises. He moved that they adopt bye-laws. Mr Lloyd seconded. Mr Richard Evans objected to the motion, as they could not make bye-laws that could apply to all the district. Bye-laws required in Caersws and other villages would press unduly hard on the rural districts. Mr Price Pugh also opposed the motion. He said that they on the top of the hills had plenty of air, and didn't require such stringent bye-laws as in the more populous places. He was always careful to keep the powers of the inspectors limited. It was decided to form a set of bye-laws by 13 votes to two. A committee, consisting of the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, Messrs T. Jones, David Lloyd, Richard Evans, Thomas Whitticase, and J. T. Francis, was then appointed to consider the matter, and the Clerk was instructed to write the Local Government Board asking their sanc- tion to the adoption of the bye-laws and a copy of draft bye-laws. FINANCES. The Clerk reported that the balance in the treasurer's hands was .£513 Is 8d and that the total of the arrears from the various parishes was .£299. Bills and accounts were presented and the report was adopted. EXTRAORDINARY TRAFFIC— WHAT IS IT ? The Clerk reported that he had had some correspondence in regard to the extraordinary traffic on the Glynbrochan Road, Llangurig, Mr Hickman had written agreeing to pay X3 without prejudice. The Council's claim of .£11 was really 25 per. cent. of what the timber hauled over the roid was worth. It was also stated in the corres- pondence that the hauling bad been done by a timber waggon with five inch wheels and three horses, and that the loads were no heavier than 37 cwt. each. Mr David Lloyd What constitutes extraordin- ary traffic ? The Clerk said it was hard to say. It depended on the district to a great extent. It was stated that Messrs P. Thomas Parry and Co., the buyers of the timber, would fight the case, as they had a son who was a barrister and they could fight it for nothing (loud laughter). The matter was adjourned until the next meeting.

OPENING OF NEW ORGAN AT MOCHDRE PARISH CHURCH. Thursday was a red-letter day in the history of the parish of Mochdre, the occasion being the opening of the, new organ, built by Messrs J. Johnson and Son, organ builders, Newtown. Three services were held during the day. At eleven o'clock the dedication service took place, at which the Venerable Archdeacon Thomas officiated, and also preached a very able sermon to a good con- gregation. At this service Mr J. Johnson presided at the organ, and delighted the audience by his skilful manipulation of the instrument. At three o clock, the time announced for the afternoon service, a terrible thunderstorm occurred which naturally interfered with the attendance at this, the most important service of the day, still a very appreciative audience assembled to hear the organ recital by Mr A. J. Bibb, F.R.C.O, organist and choirmaster of Newtown Parish Church. The following is the programme .— Allegro Maestoso from Sonata V Rheinberger Elegy in G Lemare Andantino in D Morris Concert Toccata .Holloway Melody in D Driffield Adagio in E flat Stainer Cantilene Holloway Offertoire in F. Minor Vearce Its skilful execution was much enjoyed. During the service Miss B. Tilsley gave a very effective rendering of the solo, Nearer my God to Thee.' Mr James Hamer also rendered in good style The Old Minstrel.' The Rev G. Williams, M.A Rector of Pool Quay, delivered an inspiring and encouraging address, in which he pointed out the important place music takes in the divine services. An augmented choir sang the anthem '0 Clap your hands together.' This was a very creditable performance considering the choir sang without the aid of a conductor, which they bad previously been accustomed to. During the interval tea was provided in the schoolroom, pre- sided over by the ladies of the congregation. Mr Archie Inglis, who has recently returned from South Africa, kindly exhibited his collection of curios, in one of the rooms at the' Vicarage. A small charge was made for admission, the pro- ceeds of which will be devoted to the Organ Fund. The evening meeting was timed for 6-30, but owing to the unsettled weather it was 7 o'clock betore the service commenced. The Church was comfortably filled when the choir and clergy took their places. After the singing of a hymn the evening service proceeded, Mr E. W. Savage reading the lessons. Simper's anthem, 'King of Kings' was sung by the choir, the solo being taken by Mr Morley Hughes, of Newtown, who, as usual, gave a good account of himself. The hymn,' Hark the organ loudly pealing,' was also rendered. The Rev. Canon Williams, Newtown, preached an able sermon, taking as his text the 1st verse of the 95th Psalm, "0 come, let us sing unto the Lord." During his discourse the Canon congratu- lated the Church upon their achieving such a noble work. He said England possessed some of the leading organ builders of the world, and he was glad to think they had a firm in tbeir own town capable of building such a magnificent in- strument. Apart from the important place it would take in their worship, it was an ornament to the Church and a credit to the builders. We heartily join with the Canon and the mem- bers ot the Church in offering our congratulations to Messrs Johnson and Son upon the beautiful organ built by them. Owing to the absence of an organ chamber, the instrument had to be divided. The Great and Pedal Organ are on the north side, and the Swell Organ is built on a bracket on the south side. The tubes to the Swell are 60 feet long. The case is of pitch pine, with silvered front pipes. The specification is as follows :— GREAT ORGAN CC TO G. 1. Open Diapason 8ft. Metal. 56 Pipes 2. Dulciana 8ft. 56 „ 3. Principal 4ft. 11 56 „ 4. Flute 4ft. Wood 56 5. Fifteenth 2ft. Metal. 56 SWELL ORGAN CC TO G. 1. Violin Diapason.. 8ft. Open throughout Wood and Metal 56 Pipes 2. Gedacht 8ft. Wood 56 „ 3. Gemshorn 4ft. Metal 56 4. Oboe 8ft. „ 44 „ PEDAL ORGAN CCC TO F. 1. Bourdon 16ft. Wood 30 Pipes COUPLERS AND ACCESSORIES. 1. Swell to Great. 2. Swell sub. Octave. 3. Swell to Pedal. 4. Great to Pedal. 5. Tremulant to Swell. Balanced Swell Pedal. Two Doublo Acting Confbination Pistons to Great and Pedal. Two Combination Pistons to Swell. The Organ is Tubular Pneumatic throughout, the Action being on 6-inch wind and the Soundboards on 3-inch wind.

MONTGOMERYSHIRE INFIRMARY NEW BUILDING FUND. TOTAL AMOUNT REQUIRED ics,ooo. AMOUNT PROMISED TO JUNE 11: JB5.532- AMOUNT YET TO BE RAISED .£468. Mr and Mrs Cassine, Eboraium, New Barnett 1 1 0 Mrs Edmunds, Severnside 1 1 0 Miss Lewis, do. 1 1 0 MissBrogden, Hazelwood, West Malvern 0 10 0

MR. DAVID DAVIES' OTTER HOUNDS WILL MEET ON WedneRday, June 15th St. Harmons, 10.30.m. [Wednesday, June 15fch St. Harmons, 10-30 a.m. t Saturday, June 18th Glandyfl, 8 a.m.

WELSHPOOL. GRAND DISPLAY of new goods on show at. BOWEN'S, the well-known cash drapers, Berriew- street. FOR FARM and Garden Seeds, Pea Guards, Pea Trainers, Wire Netting, Barbed Wire, etc., try WM. THOMAS, Ironmonger and Seed Merchant, Broad-street, Welshpool.—Advt. THE DAIRY.-Our Princess Separator has been awarded over 100 medals. The most reliable; easiest to work; British made.—Call and inspect at HUMPHREY JONES & SON, Hall- street. [Advt. MONDAY'S MARKET PRICES.—Butter (wholesale) 9d per lb, retail lOd to Is hen eggs, 15 for Is; chickens, 4s to 6s per couple; hens, 3s 6d per couple ducklings, 4s 6d to 5s 6d per couple. BOWLING.—An Oswestry team of 12 visited the Victoria Bowling Green on Thursday, but after a very pleasant game the home players proved victors by 256 to 191. I ANGLICAN.—The Rev Douglas Morgan, B.A., I senior curate of Welshpool, has accepted the offer of a curacy in connection with Oswestry Parish Church. He will proceed to his new sphere in three or four months time. CORRECTION.—By inadvertence the address of the defendant in the recent case of Rower stealing from St. Mary's Churchyard was wrongly pub- i llished, The defendant—Mrs Emily Evans-lives at the Brewery-yard, and we gladly take the opportunity of correcting a regrettable mistake, and stating that Mrs Emily Evans, the Bear-yard, had nothing whatever to do with the case. A VICAR AS NON-RATEPAYER.—The Vicar of Criggion's name was mentioned at the Welshpool County Sessions last Monday, when Thomas Gregory, the assistant-overseer of the parish, appeared to summon the Rev. R. A. Brock for non-payment of last year's rates. The Justices' Clerk (Mr C. P. Winnall) suggested that the t summons be withdrawn, and tha"; application for payment of the rates be made to the Official Receiver in Bankruptcy. Accordingly the case was pot proceeded with. ODDFELLOWSHIP.—There was a good attendance of members at the Loyal Prince of Powis Lodge of Oddfellows, M.U., on Saturday, the 4th inst. Mr Charles Williams, N.G, presided. On the pro- position of Mr T. C. Pryce, P. P.G.M., seconded by Mr W. H. Davies, P.G., the following resolution was unanimously carried :—" That this Lodge heartily congratulates Bro. E. Morgan Jones, P.P.G.M., on his elevation to the high and responsible office of Grand Master of the Order of Druids, and that a record of the distinguished position attained by one of the members of this Lodge be made in the minute book, and that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to Bro. E. Morgan Jones." TRAMP CHARGED WITH HousEER]EAKING-" I only want to give sufficient evidence for a remand of eight days to enable the police to make inquiries as to his character," said Sergt. Hughes at the Police Court last Tuesday, when a tramp, who gave his name as John Jones, Gilfach Goch, Glamorganshire, and his occupation as a seaman, was brought up in custody on an indictable charge. The accusation was that of breaking into the house of Mr William Wynne, Salop-road, the previons afternoon. The Mayor (Mr T. J. Evans) and Mr Maurice Jehu sat on the Bench. Of At 7-15 p.m. last night, your Worships," said P.C. Thomas Jones, I, in company with P.C. Williams, arrested the prisoner. We found him in a hay- loft, covered with hay, in an outbuilding belonging to Mr Green, The Moors. I told him the nature of the charge, and brought him to Welshpool, and locked him up." The accused had nothing to say in Court, and the remand was granted. In the Court-room there sat Mrs and Miss Johnson, next- door neighbours to Mr and Mrs Wynne, and the Sergeant said he had a witness, who would identify the man, who was seen at the back of the premises where he was alleged to have broken into. The Sergeant also showed the magistrates a basket, containing a loaf of bread, partly dbmolished, to- gether with a quantity of grocery. Personal.—The Earl of Powis arrived from London at Welshpool on Saturday evening. He will stay at the Castle for about ten days. Another Charles Howell Memorial.—The end nearest the town of the roadside waste by the canal in Berriew-street. is now adorned with a rectangular drinking trough, wrought of Aberdeenshire polished red granite. It is massive—weighing about three tons-but also pleasing to the eye, and bears the following inscription:—" In memory of Charles Edward Howell. This drinking trough is erected by his brother and sisters, 1910. Have pity on the animals." Something New.—Alter the parish church service last night, members nf the Church of England Men's Society held an open-air mission meeting in Brook-street, opposite Powell's-row. The Rev D. Grimaldi Davis, D.D. ,vicar of the parish, acted as leader, and Messrs Pryce (Oldford-terrace) and Crabtree (the Grammar School) gave ad- dresses. There was a crowd of between 100 and 150 standing on the road, whilst a num- ber of the Powell's-row housewives stood looking and listening intently from their doorsteps. Personal.—Wednesday, June 29th, is the date fixed for the marriage of Miss Edith Maud Harrison, second daughter of Mr and Mrs G. D .Harrison, Fronllwyd, and the Rev Herbert E. Cooke, vicar of Stoneleigh, Warwickshire. The ceremony will take place in .St. Mary's Parish Church, and extensive arrangements are being made for a two days' local celebration of the event. A Historic Precedent.—Speaking at the Welshpool Town Hall on November llth, 1894 (with regard to a question of inter- mediate education), Councillor Forrester Addie said a, public meeting should be called, so that an expression of opinion could be obtained from the public. A cor- respondent writes that the public of Welsh- pool hold this same view with regard to the Henfaes question. Why does not the Council consult the town ? The Assize Problem.—The newspaper- reading public in Welshpool have been fol- lowing with keen interest the protests made in various parts of the country against the proposed grouping of the assize system, which would deprive Welsh pool of its ancient status as an assize town. Probably the case against alteration has been best summed up in a sentence by Councillor Richard Jenkins and by Mr Justice Jelf. The former said that the many are to suffer for the advantage of the few, whilst the Judge at Ruthin last Friday said he thought the change would be a penny wise and a pound foolish. Field Club.—About thirty Field Club members had another invigorating and in- structive outing last Saturday afternoon. By brake and bicycle they assembled at Garbett's Hall, and walked up to the Welsh Harp, the interesting interior of which was inspected. Thence along the road and across the moor the party made for Monks- fields, where Mrs Meredith provided tea at the farmhouse. Afterwards the President (Dr Lloyd Elliott) called upon Mrs Joseph H. Davies to read a paper on this historic place. The contribution was described as one of the very best papers with which the club has yet been favoured. In proposing a hearty vote of thanks to Mrs Davies, Mr R. E. Owen, M.A., drew an interesting comparison between this upland chapelry to Strata Marcella (Pool Quay) Abbey and a similar Cardiganshire chapelry near the abbey of Strata Florida. Service of Sacred Song. Men who have risen in the world by the aid of others and not by their own work, may have plenty of hat-touching and ceremonious respect. But the real regard of his fellowmen is given to the man who has the nerve to throw his hat into the ring of life and fight out the battle of life in a manly .and honourable way." Thus in the Church House yester- day afternoon spoke Mr John Pugh, who, though a veteran figure at the service of sacred song, is never stale. He delivered a bright and practical address on Where's there's a will there's a way." The Rev Douglas Morgan (senior curate) presided, and Mr Sinclair Jones, according to cus- tcvn, proved an acceptable singer of. two solos. The musical programme included one new item, which also had an interest- ing hearing—a part song by a children's choir, which had for its conductor Mr J. Hughes (Police Station). Despite the tempting warm weather and out-of-door at- tractions, there was a good audience.

LLANIDLOES. SPECIAL SERVICES.—The annual preaching services of the Congregational Church were held,, on Saturday and Sunday last, for which the services of the Rev. Eurog Walters, of Swansea, and the Rev. Peter Price, B.A., of Dowlais, were obtained. The chapel was throngad with large congregations. OLIVER CROMWELL —The Rev. E. Lloyd Jones delivered his popuiar lecture on "Cromwell" before a large audience in the Welsh Wesleyan Chapel, on Wednesday evening last. Mr Jones, who has a great reputation as a lecturer, is a great favourite in Llanidloes, and the townspeople look forward to his visits with keen interest. WESLEYAN CHORAL FESTIVAL.—The United District Wesleyan Choral Festival was held in the Welsh Wesleyan Chapel on Monday last. The members of the choirs were drawn from the churches of Cardiganshire and Montgomery- shire. Mr Hugh Hughes, G T.S.C. Treherbert, conducted, this being his second visit to Llanid- loes to conduct a Wesleyan Festival. An excellent selection of songs had been chosen by the committee, which the large choir rendered with much effect. The anthem A'r lan Iorddoren ddofn," was very finely treated by the choir, this being the best performance. Mr Edward Rees, Machynlleth, presided, and the arduous duties of accompanists were undertaken by Mrs Williams and Miss Florrie Rees who did their work admirably. Tea was provided for the visiting choirs in the spacious schoolroom adjoining the chapel. POLICE COUP.T.-On Monday morning, before Alderman Edward Hamer (the Mayor) and E. Davies, John Morris, of no fixed abode, was charged with being drunk and disorderly on Saturday, the 4th. P.C. Lewis said that in conse- quence of complaints he went to the top ot Great Oak-street where he found defendant drunk and disorderly, and making use of bad language. There was a crowd of people around him. He took him down Great Oak-street. Defendant refused to go away when asked and used bad language. He wanted lodgings, but as he could not get any witness asked him to leave the town. Since he had been in the cell he had been acting very disorderly. Defendant admitted getting drunk when he found that he could not get any lodgings. P.C. Lewis said that he found 16s 5d on the defendant. Fined 7s 6d. COUNTY COU.RT.-On Monday, before his Honour Judge William Evans. At a previous Court Francis G. Jones, Maesmawr, Caersws, as executor of the estate of the late David Davies Cwm, Llangurig, was defendant in a case in which a man named Owen, who lost a thumb" whilst working on the estate, claimed compen- sation and was awarded 10s a week. On Monday Mr Martin Woosnam applied for a review of the case, so that the executor might be recouped out cf the estate. The reason why he did this was that several creditors were suing Mr Jones that day, one of whom sued for the sum of £ 100. If this one creditor was successful there would be none left for the others. Mr A. L. Careless, Llandrindod, appeared for the claimant, Mrs Margaret Evans, who claimed the sum of .£100 as housekeeper, in the household of the late David Davies. He said that Mr Jones was negligent in not insuring Owen.—His Honour said that he would most likely make an order for the executor to recoup himself.—Mr Woosnam said that the assets of the estate were 4263, and the debts as- certainable.2233 2s, so that they only had a sut- plus of JHO apart from the executor's claim for .£100 and the other claims in Court that day.—The application for the review of the compensation award was granted.—Judgment for plaintiffs in a number of small claims against the estate was given, but on the claim of Margaret Evans Mr Woosnam objected to the case proceeding. An affidavit by plaintiff did not state where a certain document was at present, so that defendant could not examine it -On this ground the case was ad- journed.

Benighted Newtown. Sir,—I see that a councillor has just referred' to Welsbpool as a "benighted" town. Let him come to Newtown one of these dark nights, and he will discover that he is in darkest Mont- gomeryshire. Newtown owns its own gas works, and yet not a lamp is lit to show us our way. One night last week a friend and I, while feeling our way home over pavement crossings and cellar trap doors, suffered an experience that does little credit to those who rule us. My friend's foot slipped from off the kerb in the darkness, and for several daysafterwards he was nursing a swollen ankle. What, sir, is the reason why our streets are kept in darkness ? It is a scandalous shame that citizens should be thus endangered just because of some evident cheeseparing policy of our Council. Who commanded them to cease lighting ? Was there any desire expressed by the ratepayers to live in this benighted state? Even if a leading lamp or two were lit one might hobble along safely in the gloom, but not that much is granted us. Where is the Ratepayers' Association? We want the author of "More Light" back on the Council. Some things have suffered from neglect since his absence.-Youn truly, CITIZEN. .Newtown, 10th June.

Newtown Waterworks. Sir;-I have read in your recent issues the interesting discussions on the above subject by the Urban District Council. Before launching on ady scheme of expenditure in this connection, I think the Cpuncil would be well advised to ascertain the real cause of the lack of pressure or supply of water to the town. That there is something wrong is quite evident. One has only to recollect the very inferior pres- sure available during the recent conflagration at the Cambrian Mills, situate as it is on one of the lowest spots in the town. Much is being made of the incrustation of the main pipes. Personally, I think the trouble lies elsewhere. Without the necessary data as to the "con- sumption of water," static head," etc. I cannot, of course, be positive, but I believe the main pipds are much too small for the service, and therefore scraping, while desirable in itself, will not cure the evil complained of. It is further suggested that it will be necessary to build another reservoir—to avoid inconvenience to the town in the event of the present reservoir requiring cleaning out. In this connection I assure the Council such an outlay would be a waste of money. A temporary arrangement could be made at a comparatively small cost. In case of contamination of the water in the reservoir this self-same arrangement would answer the purpose, providing, of course, the stream was free from contamination.—I am, sir, yours, etc., "ENGINEER." Newtown, 10/6,10. 9

Welshpool Council v. The Town.—A spec- ial meeting of the Town Council has been summoned for to-morrow (Tuesday) morn- ing at 10 o'clock in the Council Chamber. The agenda reads:—"To consider reply from the Earl of Powis to the Council's application for a yearly tenancy of the fields in Severn-road to the option of a lease for 21 years from 25th March, 1911. To consider tenders for pipes." It will be remembered that at. the last Council meet- ing an assurance was given that no further steps would be taken to seek a lease of the Severn-road fields, until the estimated cost of piping the Llyndu brook and building a retaining wall had been approved by the Council. At a later date a special meeting of the Sanitary Committee decided (by a majority of six to four) to apply for a yearly tenancy with the option of 21 years' lease. This new proposal has not yet come before the Council, and the Sanitary Com- mittee has exceeded its powers by making such an application to Lord Powis. In view of the emphatic decision of the recent public meeting, protesting against leasing the two fields in dispute, the townspeople await with anxious interest the outcome of to-morrow's Council meeting. It will be noticed in particular that the agenda of this special meeting does not provide for a consideration of the town's meeting reso- lution, and, unless the Council decides otherwise, that communication will not come up for discussion until the ordinary monthly meeting next Friday. And by then the Council may have embarked upon a scheme to expend £200 in works on other people's property, which they propose tak- ing for a twelvemonth—with an option of a 21 years' lease, contrary to the expressed [desire of the townspeople.

MACHYNLLETH. RENT AUDIT.—On Wednesday, frhe Wynnstay Estate Rent Audit was held at the Lion Hotel. CATCHES.—Fine sport has been experience by anglers in the Dovey. Good catches were made on Tuesday. PERSONAL.—Prince Francis of Teckis the guest of Lord Herbert Vane-Tempest at the Pi as. b The Royal visitor arrived on Saturday week. COUNTY COURT,-At the County Court, held on Tuesday before his Honour Judge William Evans, there were no defended cases, and all the business was disposed of -by the Registrar (Mr David Evans.) MUSICAL SUCCEss.-We are pleased to learn that Miss Jennie Lumley, daughter of Mr John Lumley, was among the successful pianoforte players at the Towyn Eisteddfod. The child. who is only eleven years of age, was highly praised by the adjudicator. MALE VOICE CHOIR.A.t the Towyn Chair Eisteddfod held last week, the Male Voice Choir, conducted by Mr J. O. Williams, were highly praised for the excellent way in which they rendered the test piece Cydgan y Bugeiliaid". On their return, the Choir was well received by the townspeople.

CAERSWS. OBITUARY.—»Our correspondent writes: On Wednesday week it became known in the Ancient City that Miss Mary Richards, aged 32 years, daughter of Mr and Mrs Richards, Tynpwll, had passed away at 116, Maida Vale, London, after a very short illness, the feeling of sorrow and sym- pathy for the family of Tynpwll was really in- tense. Deceased had for many years been a most consistent member of the Calvinistic Methodist Church at Caersws. She was possessed ot brilliant natural gifts as a singer and evinced great interest in all good work. As a singer her words were at all times so intelligible to the listener just as if she had taken a book and read them. The environments of the religious home at Tynpwll followed her to the great city of London, where she spent the last years of her life. She was a faithtul member of the Welsh Calvinistic Method- ist Chapel, Shirland Road, Paddington, London. She was also a member of the ladies choir con- ducted by Mrs Griffith (Miss Myfanwy Jones, Bettws), who is organist in Shirland Road Chapel. Miss Richards was greatly loved by all whom she had formed an acquaintance with in London. She I was buried in Llandinam Churchyard on Saturday week. The Vicar of the parish officiated in the I unavoidable absence of the Rev Richard Jones, M.A., Calvinistic Methodist Minister, Caersws and Llandinam. The bearers were Messrs R. Francis, Porth Farm, D. Francis, Tymawr, E. Spaonley and Jas. Evans, junr. The funeral was a public one, and was largely attended. The chief mourners were Mr J. Richards (father), Miss Nellie Richards (sister), Mr David John and Ebtnezer Richards (brothers). Mr and Mrs D. E. Lloyd, Twickenham, (brother-in-law and sister), Mr- and Mrs Roberts, Frydd (uncle and aunt), Mrs Evans, Cwmberllan (aunt), Mr and Mrs Benbow, Llandinam (uncle and aunt), Mr R. Evans, Penrorin (uncle), Mr R. Evans, Tanyfron (uncle), Mr and Mrs Wilson. Broneirion (uncle and aunt), Mr and Mrs Richards, Tynymaen (uncle and aunt), Mr and Mrs David Richards, Cyfronydd (uncle and aunt), Mr William Richards, Llandinam (uncle), Mr Pryce Wilson, Broneirion, Miss Mary Richard!, Tynymaen, Miss Mary Evans, Plasdinam, Miss Mary Evans, Penrorin (first cousins), and a large number of sympathising friends, Wreaths were sent by the following:—Mrs Edward Davies, Plasdinam, Miss Fabris, Maida Vale, London; Shirland Road Chapel; David and Maggie; the families of Cwmberllan. and Tynpwll; Uncle and Aunt Richards, Cyfronydd, Miss Annie and Martha Lloyd, Buxton; Mrs Dakin and family; Mrs Asbton; Mrs A. Humphreys; Miss Lily Grovenor, Caersws. The above speaks highly of the esteem in which our departed friend was held. Messrs R. and S. Morgan, Newtown, were the undertakers.

"Possessed of Seven Devils." JUDGE EVANS AND A WOMAN PLAINTIFF. BUTTINGTON FARMER'S ASSAULT JUSTIFIED. Ac extraordinary story was told at the Welsh- pool County Court last Thursday, when Jane France, Green Lane, formerly of Brunant, Buttington, claimed .£50 damages for alleged assault by David Hopkins, a farmer living at Brunant. Mr Montague Woosnam, solicitor, Newtown, appeared for plaintiff, and Mr J. E. Tomley, solicitor, Montgomery, defended. Mrs France said that on September 25th last defendant brought some sheep down the lane in front of her house. They were dripping from Cooper's Dip," and she asked him to drive them on. He refused, and she said, "Do you want my bit of grass ? and opened a gate. Defendant caught hold of her, struck her, and knocked her down. When she got up, he again knocked her down. She sustained severe injuries, could not do her household duties, and had to be attended by a doctor. Mr Tomley a&ked plaintiff had she been on good terms with her previous neighbours. She replied that she had, but admitted having been fined R5 for poisoning one neighbour's fowls, assaulting a Mrs Griffiths, and a man named William Evans. Plaintiff's husband gave evidence that he saw defendant beating his wife, and dragging her on the ground. Witness said, "HEY! STOP THAT! I WON'T ALLOW THAT The Judge: I should have thought you 'would have done more than that. Why didn't you go up, and give him a good whipping ? Witness My hand was bad. Mr Tomley: Is your wife of a quarrelsome disposition ? Witness: Not more than other women. The Judge: They are all very lively there ? Witness: Yes (laughter). Replying to Mr Tomley, the husband added that he had never quarrelled with his wife or beaten her. They had been married 22 years. Dr. George A. Skinner, Welshpool, gave evi- dence that on the evening of September 25th he examined plaintiff, and found she suffered from shock. There were abrasions on the face and back of the neck, and she bad two fractured ribs. She complained of pain in the knee, but he found no injury there. He examined her last Monday and found the right knee swollen It inches more than the left. That injury, he thought, would be permanent. Defendant gave evidence that be had been dipping, he sheep with the help of a man named Best. They brought the sheep down to the end of the lane, which led to his fields, in order to mark them before he turned them on the common. Mrs France came down the garden with a besom in her hand, and opened the gate to let the sheep away. He closed the gate; she opened it again, and he had to close it again. Best then said, "I'll mind the gate, you go on marking the sheep." When Best went to the gate Mrs France STRUCK Rur WITH A BESOM, and the force of the blow broke the shaft. She then picked up stones and threw at them. Witness went and caught hold of her hands, as some of the stones nearly hit him. Plaintiff bit his hand, and struggled violently. Witness told his wife to take the sheep away, and was going away when Mrs 'France hit him with a large stone on the back of the head. He produced in Court his cap onrl n. handacre with blood on them. After the blow he turned around and struck Mrs France. It was the only assault he committed, and he knew he did wrong, but could not help it. Cross-examined, witness said he did not know how Mrs France sustained the injuries to her ribs and knee, unle?s it was when she was struggling and got on the ground. Dr. Arthur Crump, Welshpool, deposed that on the evening of September 25th, he found a wound on defendant's hand 'and another on the back of his head. Both were of a serious nature. Best and Mrs Hopkins corroborated, and Mr Tomley was about to call further evidenoe, when the Judge said he had beard sufficient. Defen- dant's assault, he added, was thoroughly justified. Plaintiff had committed an assault of a bad character, and he was quite sure she required to be put under restraint, and it took a good deal to keep her in decent order. After hearing all the evidence the Judge did not think that all she suffered from could in any way be attributed to defendant. She seemed to be possessed of seven devils, threw herself en the ground, and did herself damage in that way. The evidence was pretty clear, and justified defendant in protecting himself. Judgment was entered for defendant.

F BOWLING. NEWTOWN v. ABERYSTWYTH. On Saturday Aberystwyth visited Newtown, and an interesting game resulted in a win for Newtown by 118 points. Although beaten by so large a margin the much improved play of the visiting team was the subject of remark. At the luncheon Mr J. Arthur Jones (vice-president). proposed a vote of tnanks t.o the Aberystwyth team, which was supported by Mr C. W. Norton. Mr Rufus Williams, in responding made an exceedingly humourous speech. and promised to reverse the figures when Newtown visited Aberystwyth. The following- were the scores I J H Phillps Rufus Williams J A Jones 56—50 J Garner 60-50 E C Morgan J Morgan C Playfair 50-42 J 0 wen. 38:t3Z C W Norton J Gaunt. R H Roberts 61—39 Harding 34-5 Geo Latham A Mc Ilquhoun. J E Morris IH-31 M Morgans 31—57 Hy Roberts D Williams J Henderson 64:-32 E Hindley 34- ik" T LI Phillips T J Morrison Ed Morgan 60—40 Bart Jones 37-62 352 234 234 352 CRICKET. R.W.W. V. MACHYNLLETH. Played at Newtown on Saturday. Scores :— MACHYNLLETH. P Vaughan b Owen 7 C L Jones-Evans b Owen 15 R H Jones-Evans b Owen 36 H Jones c Challinor b Owen 45 W Williams b Owen o J Jenkins b Rees 4 J E Roberts b Owen 7 T Williams b OWE:l 2 R E Morgan b Evans 0 C Williams not out 8 H Morgan b Evans 1 Extras 4 129 E.W.W. W Owen c and b Vaughan 8 H Boulton run ut 0 R Evans c Vaughan b Williams 2 E Rees c R Jones-Evans b Vaughan. 11 A Edwards b Vaughan 0 W E Pryce-Jones b H Jones 32 H Edwards b Vaughan o T Evans c R Jones-Evans b Vaughan. 10 C Ctmilinor b H Jones 6 E R Morris not uut I W Whalley not out 0 Extras. 5 (Total for nine wickets) 75

MOCHDRE. Ix the account of the funeral of little Irene Lewis, of Penygraig, in this parish, the parents' names should have appeared as Mr and Mrs Arthur Lewis.

LLANDINAM. MRS. DAVID DAVIES, of Plas Dinam, accom- panied her husband (Mr David Davies. M.P.) on a visit to Barry last week, where she was shown the statue erected to the :nemory of the grandfather and namesake of Mr David Davies as it stands overlooking the docks which his foresight, ability, and enterprise assisted to create.

BERRIEW. EXTRAORDINARY ESCAPADE OF A YOUTH.— Described as a mechanic and a native of Berriew, Clement Bevan (18) was the subject of a remark- able story at Oswestry Police Court on Friday, where he WAS charged with obtaining credit by means of false pretences from W. Davies, cab and motor proprietor, Oswestry. According to the evidence Bevan hired a motor from Davies, drove to Dolgelly, Barmouth and Bala, where he dis- appeared after borrowing X3 from t chaffeur, and in his confession to the police accused said he left all the hotels at which he stayed without paying the bills. He was committed to Oswestry Quarter Sessions. THE death occurred on Friday week of Mr Edward Gethin, Cefn Blewog, in his 69th year. The high esteem in which the deceased was held in the neighbourhood was fully manifested by the large assembly of friends at the funeral on Wednesday. The interment took place at the Adfa burial ground. The Rev T. Gibbon Griffiths (Con.), Cefnvaenor, and the Rev J. Davie?, C.M., Berriew, conducted the services at the house and graveside, when several bymur. befitting the occasion were sung, A number of beautiful wreaths were sent by the following :-In affection- ate rememberance ot Uncle, from Florence and Eddie, Llwyncrwtb, Lizzie and Priscilla, all at Brynderwyn, Mr and Mrs Lewis and family, Cefn- perfa, Mr and Mrs Harding, Brooks, all at the Pa*k, W. and J. Jones, Brooks, Mrs Rogers and family, cousins Bessie and William Howells, Mr Brown and family, Stingwern, all at Upper House, all at Middle House, Mrs Pryce and family, Rectory Bytake, Mr and Mrs Hughes, Fachir. The funeral arrangements were in the capable hands of Messrs Lewis, London House, Newtown, while the brass-fitted, poliehed oak coffin was supplied by Mr Gethin, Berriew.

A Farmer's Sadden Death. Sad and sudden was the death, last Tuesday morning, of a much respected Mentgomeryehire farmer, Mr David Richards, Upper House, Arddleen. About ten o'clock he was superintending the shearing of his sheep, one of which struggled as he took it over from a workman. Mr Richards fell down and died almost at once. The deceased had been under medical treatment for a twelve- month, and Dr George A. Skinner, Welsbpool, attributed death to heart failure. The funeral took place on Friday in Pool Quay Churchyard, and much sympathy is expressed with the bereaved family, the widow being left with three small children, the youngest of which is hardly a twelvemonth old.

Towels as Underclothing. Mr William Rets, formerly of the Dovey Valley Hotel, appeared at Machynlleth Police Court on Thursday and was committed to the Quarter Sessions on a charge of having stolen two towels, a piece of soap, two leather window straps and a quantity of beading, the property of the Cambrian Railways Company also a bath towel, the property of Mrs Norris, Lion Hotel, Machynlleth. Evan John Lloyd, a carriage cleaner, deposed to missing the articles which were valued by the stationmaster at 5 P.S. Davies said that when he serched Rees on Wednesday' he found two towels in defendant's coat pocket. Late in the day he found two straps and beading between his outer shirt and vest. Defendant said that it was his intention to return the towels to the station- master. Concerning the other charge Elizabeth Ann Williams, housemaid at the Lion Hotel, said she missed the towel from the bedroom in which defendant slept. P.S. Davies deposed to having found it between Rees's shirt and vest. The accused stated that he had put it there to keep his back warm. The defendant pleaded that he did not intend to steal it and intended returning it to Mrs Norris.

The Rev. J. B. Reed, B.A., curate of March wiel, Wrexham, has been appointed vicar of Broning- fcou, Whitchurch. He is a son of the late Rev. Samuel Reed, rector of Llangyniew, and a brother to Mr Gordon Reed, solicitor. WelshpGol. WELSH WESLEYANS.—The following is the draft of local stations of Welsh Wesleyan ministers and preachers on trial for 1910-11; Llanfyllin, Charles Jones, E. Whittingtcn Jones, Llanfechain Llan- fair, William John Jones, W. Lanford Jones, Meifod; the Rev W. R. Roberts, formerly of Llan- fair, is stationed at Llandudno. LADY POLITICIAN'S DEATH.—Those who at- tended the inauguration of the Montgomeryshire Branch of the Women's Tariff Reform Association at Mellington Hall, will doubtlessly remember the attractive star" speaker, Miss Violet Brooke Hunt, organising secretary from headquarters. She died last Friday at Alverstoke from heart failure following a severe illness. Miss Brooke Hunt, who was 39 years of age, had taken a prom- inent part during the South African war in i organising Soldiers' Institutes.