The Glamorgan Gazette

ANOTHER "BREEZY" MEETING. CAUSTIC CHARGES AND BITING RETORTS. DR. DAVIES AND MR. J. H. THOMAS. The usual fortnightly meeting of this body was held on Tuesday afternoon. Present-Mr J. H. Thomas (in the chair), Dr Davies, Dr Thomas, Messrs J. Boyd Harvey, David Davies, Evan Williams, T. B. Boucher, Rhys Rhys, T. Jones, David Beynon, and W. Griffiths. Mr J. H. Thomas was voted to the chair in the absence of the chair- man. RECREATION GBOUND. Mr David Davies had given notice of motion with regard to the questions of axe creation ground and a. police court. Speaking to the first, he said the central part of the district was well provided for, bat there were other parts that were totally un- provided for; and he suggested that the best plan would be to refer the matter to a committee to :eport at the next meeting. In the upper district aere was not a yard of ground available for recrea- te purposes. The young people now utilised a -pace in Coegnant-rnad, but the site had been taken tu for building purposes, and once the buildings WHre put up there would be no open spaces left for tf public. The Council should take steps to select iu open space there before the other fields were urned iuto building sites. There WdS nothing but lie roads now where they could indulge in sports- 4 e believed Mr Barrow had given a field to be used r such a purpose at Llwydartb, whilst North's Navigation Company had granted the use of their xeellent field for the central part of the town and ney should now do something for the upper part. Mr Harvey thought it was most desirable that the -ople of the upper district should have a recreation i ground, but he was sorry to hear Mr Davies say i^t the probabilities were that the whole of the "ound in the district would be built over. He (Mr Ha.rvey) was not of that opinion. :\fr Davies Not all; most of it. Mr Harvey went on to suggest that the Council -fiould approach some of the landlords and ask if y would grant a fiell at a nominal rent in the t.roe way as Mr Barrow and North's. They should ¡ • r. take the matter up in the form of claiming their :hts as a Council. I Sir Davies In Coegnant-road one side belongs to r .lonel Turbervill and the other side to Miss Talbot. tbink we should approach them first. Mr T. Jones agreed that it was a most desirable ing to have a recreation ground. He thought, wever, they should meet the wants of the place in entirety and, in order to give the greatest nefit, to have the open spaces so situated that J Ue children could get to them conveniently from t ir homes. If the spot suggested by Mr Davies .r the North Ward was selected, he did not see •w the people from the Caerau and Nantyfyllon ould take advantage of it. He thought there -n juld be open spaces all Over Maesteg. Mr Davies' suggestion was agreed to. POLICE COTJET. \fr Davies then drew attention to the necessity of Slaving a Police-court at Maesteg. Mr Davies re- tailed the fact that the old Local Board made an Ipplication for the appointment of a stipendiary, Hid the Clerk of the County Council sent a letter some time ago asking what their opinion was on the matter. He believed the matter was now being considered in the Garw Valley, and if they could have a Stipendiary to act for the whole district—in- cluding the three Valleys and Bridgend-the cost would only amount to one farthing in the £ on the rotal valuation. They had now three resident Magistrates at Maesteg and he urged that it would he a great convenience to have the police-court held 'here instead of the police officers and witnesses having to go to Bridgend every Saturday. The size and population of the place demanded it. If they could not have a Clerk appointed at Maesteg, the Bridgend Clerk could attend no doubt. He suggested that a Committee be appointed to approach the Bridgend Bench, and than the Quarter Sessions. Mr Evan Williams spoke in favour of the proposal, and also advocated the holding of a County Court at Maesteg. For the last twenty years, he said, they had been agitating for a police-court, and the time had arrived when they should make such 'in impression on the Bridgend Magistrates, and Quarter Sessions that the boon should be delayed no longer. Mr T. Jones pointed out that the Bridgend 0 Magistrates had already consented to hold a court at Maesteg, but it was found that only the most trivial cases could be tried there. Colonel Franklen then undertook to petition the County Council for a Stipendiary, and there the matter seemed to have dropped. The only method they could adopt was to apply to the Quarter Sessions for the establishment of a Divisional Petty Sessions. Then, with the support they would be likely to get from the sur- rounding district, that would very probably be granted. Mr Harvey asked what it would cost the rate- payers. The Clerk explained that when the question of ap- pointing a stipendiary was mooted, the old Local Board were asked by the Clerk to the County Council, if they would bear their quota of the cost. From that date to this, they heard nothing more of the matter. Mr Harvey What will the cost mean r The Clerk About a penny in the JE, I think. Mr Davies And a farthing in the £ for the com- J bined districts. Mr Harvey, speaking in support of the proposal, said the magistrates at Bridgend were complaining of the amount of work they had to do. They had only three magistrates "t Maesteg, and each one val" connected with collieries. Now most of the Police-court cases from Maesteg were connected with collieries—breach of regulations, &c.—and it would be hardly fair for the accused to be tried by men who were directly interested in collieries, and who, of course, would be bent on putting down such things as breaches of regulations. They had three able men no doubt, but until they had a better as- wrtment, it would be undesirable to bring men up before the present justices. 1he first attribute of English law was justice. I The Chairman But the suggestion is that a stipendiary should be appointed for the who'e dis- trict. The magistrates, of course, would sit with him. I hope we shall be able to have the co-operation of the other district. Eventually the clerk was instructed to resume correspondence wilth Col. Franklen, with a view of ascertaining the position of things. KKBBING AND CHANNELING. The clerk having been instructed at the last meeting to investigate what was done by the late Board, in regard to excusing certain parties in re- spect to kerbing and chamneling, now stated that the old Board thought if they could get the parties to pay, it would not be advisable for the Board to do the kerbing and channeling, and a resolution was passed that in all cases in future, £ he paving, kerbing and channeling, should be done at the cost of, and by the parties building. That was in August, 1893, and since then the Board had had nothing to do with kerbing and channeling. The Chairman advocated hard ash footpaths ia- stead of stone pavements. The present method in- volved not only a heavy expense, but it appeared to be a source of nuisance to those workmen who slept in the day-time, and worked by night. In ad- dition to the hardship of calling upon these work- men to pay it would become a heavy item of expense to the Board hereafter. Therefore let them have ash footpaths, and not call upon poor people to pay onch a heavy sum. Mr Harvey said if a man could afford to build a house, he could also afford to put a pavement. Dr Davies remarked that the old Board was in- fluenced, to a large extent, by the custom in vogue in'the adjoining valleys. Eventually on the motion of Mr Harvey, seconded by Mr Williams (who expressed a hope that a uni- form rule would be adopted by the Council), con- sideration of the matter was postponed till the next jueeting. With reference to the bill sent in by Mr S. H. Stockwood in -respect to his eosts as advocate for the promoters of the order dividing the district into wards, it will be remembered that Mr Scale has been asked to write the Clerk to the County Council as to the Board's liability. Mr Scale now read the reply received from Mr Franklen, who stated that he had laid his (Mr Scalo's) letter before the Local Govern- ment Committee, who sat last Thursday, when they decided that the matter did not concern them, and they declined to give any opinion. He (Mr Frank- len) therefore thought the District Council must be left to be advised by their own legal adviser. Mr Harvey What can we do ? The Clerk suggested that the matter be referred to the District Councils' Association. The Council I paid a guinea a year subscription, for which they got the benefit of Counsel's opinion. Mr T. Jones: That will only be on the legal bearings of the question. Mr Harvey And the moral justice of the question (hear, hear, and cries of "No, no"). Mr T. Jones It is a matter of pro bono publico, and the public are willing to pay for it. Proceed- ing, Mr Jones said they had a conversation on this matter at the last meeting, and it passed his under- standing to see gentlemen opposing a matter of this sort. The matter had affected the whole of the ratepayers in such a way that he could not under- stand the opposition to the payment of Mr Stock- wood's bill. He was sure the public of Maesteg were perfectly prepared to pay it without any demur, and the opposition was only from a compara- tively small number who were opposed nearly to everything that was of the pt o bono publico kind in Maesteg. It was doing an injustice to the town, because they knew very well that the town had received a benefit by the division of the district into wards. He did not see how they could refuse to pay it on grounds of justice. In other places the Local Boards had taken the matter up instead of ¡ leaving it to outside ratepayers In those cases the costs were defrayed from the rates, because it was the local authorities that raised the question. Why were they at Maesteg not in a position to put the cost upon the rates ? The old Boird neglected to do its work, opposed the movement tooth and nail; and now some of them tried to npset it. If it was not legal the promoters were perfectly prepared to pay it. but he contended that it was legal for the Council to pass a resolution that the money should be paid. The private individuals who took the matter up did not do it for their own personal benefit, but for the purpose of emancipating the place from the thraldom in which it was held. If the old Board itself had taken on the campaign the ratepayers would have had to pay, but because the ratepayers carried the thing on themselves some gentlemen now objected to payment. It was mons- trous-a monstrous injustice. The Chairman explained that the Council was in a position to dispose of the matter at once by coming to a resolution that the sum be paid. If any mem- ber made a motion, and it were passed, it became in order at once for the clerk to draw a cheque. Mr Harvey: Those who sign the cheque will pay. The Chairman: That will be decided by the auditor. Mr Boucher agreed that the ratepayers should pay the bill, but in order that there should be no doubt as to its legality he moved that the Clerk write the District Councils' Association. Mr Beynon seconded. Dr Davies said the wards were obtained and the expenses incurred, not at the request of the public, but at the request of a small party. He thought the ratepayers at large were not told of the object of the petition. He was never asked to sign a petition. He moved a good deal among the people i of Maesteg, and he could say that those who took round the petition went to certain houses, and the thing appeared to be done in a clandestine manner. The Local Board was never consulted. Me was not aware that thtt old Board would have had any objection to have the question discussed and examined if they were requested, as they were the only public body in the place. He never knew any- ing about it until within a few days of the County Council meeting at Neath, and to say that it was a public question brought forward by the ratepayers at large was erroneous, and only those who were in favour of it said it. As he said at the County Council meeting, the question was quite immature, and if the place was divided into wards it would be re-adjusted again at some future period. He proposed that the bill be not paid by the ratepayers, but by those who promoted the scheme. Mr Griffiths: Did the ratepayers engage Mr Stockwood to represent them as ratepayers. Mr Harvey: No. Mr Griffiths said the ratepayers did not hold a a public meeting and authorise the engagement of Mr Stockwood. Mr Scale was present at the inquiry, and any ratepayer could ask Mr Scale as their representative any legal question, and to explain to them all that was necessary. The Chairman Mr Scale represented the Local Board. Mr Griffiths: And the ratepayers through the Board. The Chairman Mr Scale represented the twelve gentlemen who sat at this table as a Board. Mr Griffiths: And they represented the rate- payers. The Chairman: Not upon this specific point, because it was never submitted to them at the election. It was a question arising between the ratepayers and the Board. The equity and justice of the subject is entirely admitted by the act of the County Council in granting the wards. Therefore there is no need to discuss what is fair. We take for granted that the County Council knew what was just and equitable to the ratepayers. Dr. Davies: That's not correct. The Chairman Order please. The question before us now is-is this bill to be paid by the Council? We may submit it to the District on the point, and the statements that were made at the inquiry were very misleading. Mr T. Jones: In what way ? The Chairman We can gain nothing by this discussion. Mr T. Jones We can speak to the amendment 50 times. The Chairman We have no amendment before us. Dr. Davies has moved a direct negative. The motion that the Clerk write the District Council Association, was then carried, Dr. Davies, Mr Harvey, and Mr Griffiths voting against it, MR LEWIS JONES' HOUSE. With regard to the water nuisance complained of by Mr Lewis Jones in Ewenny-road, the High- way Committee recommended that a trapped gully be placed at the gable end of Mr -Jones' premises. On the motion of Mr Harvey, seconded by Mr D. Davies, the recommendation was adopted. A WARM DISCUSSION. The report of the Highway Committee- presented by Mr T. Jones, chairman—recom- mended that, having regard to the facts laid before the committee,it was desirable to terminate the existing contract for the repair of the road, and that the surveyor should have the men under his own immediate control. Dr Davies said this was a very important question. The public streets of Maesteg had never been kept in such a good order as they had been since the contract had been given to Mr John Rees. Before that time they knew what con- dition the streets were in. They were paying very much more for keeping them than they did now. The contract was about iJlSO. Mr Rees kept two men regularly -sometimes three men— and got about 23a a week for the work he did himself. He did the work admirably. The whole place had not been kept in anything like the good order it had during the past few years. As for the surveyor, he had a great deal more than he could do now, and ho was at liberty to super- intend the work now. He moved a direct negative -that the contract be left a* it was. Mr D. Davies said since Mr Rees had taken the contract the farmers had told him (Mr Davies) that the roads had never bad better attention or been kept so well. Mr T. Jones remarked that the surveyor was in a better position than any one else to give an opinion on this matter, and if he could bring about better results at less cost—as he thought he could-it was for him to try and do so. The Surveyor gave an estimate for certain work to the old Board with the result that the cost had lowered to an appreciable extent. Mr Griffiths asked if there was any complaint as to the way in which Mr Rees had done the work. The Chairman said he drew the attention of the Council, to this matter by what appeared to him to be the unsatisfactory manner in which the contract was worked. Mr Harvey got up to speak, but The Chairman said he was not in order, as no motion had been proposed. Mr Harvey What has Mr Jones been speaking to, then ? o Dr Davies (to the Chairman): You should call your own men to order too. The Chairman explained that Dr Davies had moved an amendment, but there was no proposition yet. Mr Boucher then moved that the recommendation of the committee be adopted, and that the Clerk take steps to give notice to Mr Rees to terminate the contract. Mr T. Jones seconded. Mr Harvey said Mr Rees had had the contract for many years and it was not a customary nor a recognised thing for a public body to discharge an old servant without giving him some good reason, because Mr Rees had a kinJ of vested interest in the place. For that reason-that they had no adequate reason, and that he had not neglected his duty—he thought they should support Mr Rees, and treat him with justice. He supported the amendment. Mr T. Jones: But I pointed out that the Sur- veyor could employ the two men in other directions, and he says he can do it. Mr Harvey: But you should also listen to what Dr Davies and Mr David Davies, who employed the Surveyor, say. Mr Jones: It is simply a point with me of saving money and greater sufficiency. Mr Boucher pointed out that the Surveyor had bad no part in this matter. They asked him for his opinion and he gave it, and that was all. He had no hand in it. Dr Davies got up to speak, when The Chairman said I don't think you are in order. Dr Davies Is nobody allowed to speak but you ? The Chairman I say that no one Dr Davies: Are you going to occupy the whole time of the Council yourself f The Chairman (warmly) I decidedly object to your remarks, sir. Dr Davies And I don't think a chairman should behave in this way. The Chairman We know perfectly well that at One time you could shut up the mouth of every member, and with a silent sign you could put silence into the mouths of everybody, but you can't do it now. Dr Davies: Nothing of the sort. Dr Davies made another remark (which was inaudible to the reporters, as he had his back to them) which made The Chairman say Don't enter into personalities. If pou wish to enter into personalities I am your superior. Do you wish- Dr Davies I say that The Chairman Do you wish to enter into personalities ? Dr Davies I do not. Mr Harvey (to the Chairman) You are not con- ducting the business as a chairman should. The Chairman (turning to Mr Harvey): I am the Chairman, don't dictate to me. (To Dr Davies): What have you to say, Dr Davies ? Dr Davies That I am entitled to reply. The Chairman: I don't mean that. I didn't understand what you said to me with regard to my occupying too much of the time of the Board. Dr Davies: Yes. The Chairman I only take the time necessary to I explain matters; no more. Dr Davies: I say you do. The Chairman I wish to obviate all chances of making a martyr of you. Dr. Davies You won't make a martyr of me. The Chairman Now you can address the meeting. Dr. Davies I am greatly surprised that this motion has come on almost immediately after this new Council is formed, against a man who appears to me to have done his duty more efficiently than any of the other officers connected with the Board. Wo are quite accustomed to the common phrases about the interest of the ratepayers. I should say that I have been sitting on this Board for 25 years, and it is the interests of the ratepayers at large that 1 have at heart; and it is these motive that actuate me in this matter. To bring on a motion here to remove the best man we have, almost im- mediately after the Council is formed, is nothing but petty jealousy and low motive. Dr. Thomas asked how many applications there were for the appointment. The Clerk Two, I believe—Mr Rees and Mr Richards. Dr. Thomas There's a big question opened up there. Upon a show of hands four (Dr. Davies, Mr Harvey, Mr D. Davies, and Mr Griffiths) voted for the amendment, and six against. The Chairman abstained. LIGHTING. Mr D. Davies drew attention to the necessity of additional lamps in the upper hamlet, and said there had been a serious accident there owing to the darkness at the bottom of North-street. Dr. Davies ipoved that lamps be placed in the Caerau-road—oil lamps if the gas contractor would not do it. Mr Harvey supported, and said that the pillars would come in handy again for the Gas Company. Mr Beynon and Mr Williams also supported the proposal, which was carried unanimously.

ST. THEODORE'S, KENFIG HILL. On Wednesday of last week the choir of the above Church sat down to a sumptuous supper, which was provided and ably managed by Mr and Mrs Williams, the Post-office, assisted by Mrs Bowon, Mrs Rosser, and Mrs Powell. A few of the young ladies of the choir waited at the tables. Sixty-five of the choir were able to attend. Many friends and well-wishers of the choir also joined in the feash which enlarged the number of guests up to about 110. The tables were presided over by the following gentlemen: — Mr Jenkins (ironmonger), Mr Theodore Thomas (Crown Inn), Mr W. Rees (clerk to the Tythegston Higher Parish Council), Mr W. Thomas (Crown), and the Rev W. Gethia Williams (Cefucribbwr), The Rev J. Bangor Davies played the part of superintendent, so that the younger portion of the choir should be attended to as well as the grown-up. After clearing the tables the usual toasts were proposed. The Rev Bangor Davies pro- posed the Health of the Queen and Royal Family," which was responded to by the singing of God save the Queen." Mr Williams, Post-office, proposed the Health of the Bishop and Clergy," in appropriate terms, and the Rev J. Bangor Davies responded and gave an interesting account of this Church at Kenfig Hill in the last ten years. A little over ten years ago there was neither a Church nor Churchmen at Kenfig Hill, but now they had a grand Church and a grand congregation, and over two hundred Sunday scholars. Then Mr Bangor Davies proposed a vote of thanks to the ladies for getting up the supper, and Mr Jenkins, the iron- monger, seconded it with great fluency, which was' heartily cheered. After this was over, a few hours were spent in singing and dancing. Miss Thomas, of The Hall, most ably presided at the piano, and was assisted by Mrs Dr Hinds and Miss Edie Edwards. Amongst the visitors were:—The Misses Morgans, Wy Pillars Mr and Mrs Young, Cefn Mr G. Rees, Farmers Arms; Mr G. Thomas, Tyfri; Mr T. Say, Cefn; Mrs Cobbly, Mrs Arthur Williams, and others from Cefncribbwr; Mr McEwen, Mr Murey, Mr Purhell, Mr and Mrs Lewis, Mr and Mrs Roberts, Mrs Evan Morgan, the Misses Davies, Bryneglwys, and party and many others. The weather was cold, but the good repast and the good fire in the spacious and well-built schoolroom of Bryndu, which was lately re-built and enlarged by Miss Talbot, made all the guests forget the inclemency of the weather, and they thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

COURT DUNRAVEN, No. 3031. ——— This old-established branch issues its 36th annual statement of accounts for the year ending 31st December last, from which it appears that the reserve fund at that date amounted to £ 395 158 6d. During the past year the funds have been some- what heavily taxed on account of sickness, having paid to their members the sum of X 117 18s, and the death allowances were t9. In face of this heavy expenditure the management are satisfied with their financial position, and would urge non-members of friendly societies to consider the great benefits they may secure in associating themselves with this, as with any other well-establi8bed society, and by timely thrift making provision for such a a time as whou, perhaps, most aeeded. The offieara are:- C.R., Jas. Hodder; S.O.R., Alf Howells, S.W., Wm. Loosemore; J.W., Howell Jenkins; S.B., John David J.B., Richard Giles surgeon, W. E. Thomas; treasurer, Ll, Wallington; secretary, W. L. Wallington, Nolton-street.

ENEZER, ABERKENFIG. Thirterly meeting in connection with the Sundchool of the above place of worship was held unday evening last, when there was a very) attendance, which speaks volumes for the dent meetings that are provided by the schobf the school. Great praise is due to Mess. phillips, and John Rees, the organisers of thieting, for the capital programme that bad Iprepared. In the unavoidable absence of thstor, the Rev E. Davies, Mr D. Leyshon, undenager of Park Slip Colliery, occupied the ohaid he proved to be an excellent chairman. The wing programme was gone through in excel style: Singing, Sycbu'r Dagrau," congtion; prayer, Mr W. Jones; singing, "Allcongregation recitation, "Idle Ben," i W. Thomas; recitation, Two crossing swee," Miss Thomas; singing, J. Rees and partsinging, "Bryniau Canaan," Mr E. Powrecitation, "Tori nythod Adar, Mr T. Pow singing, "Llantrithyd," J. Rees and part'ecitation. Mr W. J. Jones; singing, h A welschwi ef," Mr W. Richards; recitation, "inlyrdod Stephan," Mr Cobley; address, Tlmday School teacher," Mr W. Thomas sing D. Daniel and party recitation, Yr Ysgfcbbobhol." Mr E. Hopkin singing Nes i dr Nhad," Mr D. Phillips; recitation, Pu od," Mr W. Lewis song, Mr J. Rees recbn, Y baban dwrnod oed," Mr Cobley sing "Eden a Chalfaria," Sunday School Parsong, "Beibl mawr fy mam," Mrs Maud R04 song, Mr J. H. Lewis (Llew Aber). The recons of Mr Cobley were rendered with capeflect, and great credit is due to all the othreciters, whilst the singing was above thorage, Mr Richards being very effective in hist, also Mrs Rosser. and Mr Lewis (Llew Abwho fairly captivated the large audience. Thanday School, under the genial and ener. gebperintendency of Mr W. J. Jones, is in a floting condition, the other officers being Mr D. illips, secretary, and Mr W. Richards, trs-er. After singing "Diadem," one of the beeeting8 ever held in the place was brought to jse. Melus moes eto."

NTH COVERED WITH SNOW- Head-constable has issued a notice intima- tinat he will enforce a fine upon householders fot clearing away the snow from their house in W. T. Jones, landlord of the Crown Inn. N, distributed, on Wednesday, 100 gallons of thghly well-made soup to the poor children of thIVn, A large number of children presented thslves with vessels of various kinds, and gride for the kindness shown was depicted upon ma hunger-pinched young face.

rIlE LONDON AND PRO- VINCIAL BANK, LTD. An ordinary general meeting of the shareholders f this bank was held on Monday at the Canon- treet Hotel, E.C,, Mr T. W. Boord, M.P., (residing. The Secretary (Mr T. J. Grigson) having read the lotice convening the meeting. The Chairman said: Gentlemen, it now becomes ny duty to'move that the report be received and adopted but before doing so perhaps you will allow ne to make a few observations on the business of ,he bank. I think I need hardly tell you that irade is bad no doubt you all know that, and jossibly you also know that bad trade is bad for jankers. There are plenty of evidences of badness )f trade and its effect upon bankers. In the first >)lace, there is the rate of discount. The Bank of England rate for the last six months has stood at ? per cent.—a point below which the Bank of England never goes—but the Bank of ^England rate QO longer affects the money market as it used to do it no longer controls it, and practically the value of surplus funds in the hands of bankers is nil, chat is to say, it is per cent., or even less, which is never satisfactory from a banking point of view. In all the balance-sheets of banks and in our own yon will see there is a surplus of unemployed capital. Our own surplus of cash in hand stands at con- siderably over a million of money; a million, I think, would be a fair amount for us to hold, and I think we could very profitably place J3150,000 more than we have been able to place. Then, if you want a third evidence of the badness of things you have only to look at the price of Consols, which have nearly reached 105—an unprecedented price, especially when you consider that the interest paid by Consols is now less than it used to be, and in a few years will be automatically further reduced. These things, gentlemen, affect Londou banks very strongly London banks go in for large transactions at very close rates, and therefore, no doubt, they are worse of fthan we are. Idonotmeantoaay that we refuse large transactions when we can see any advantage in them, but I wish to point out that our business is that of country bankers, and that we supply the financial needs of the agricultural community, and of traders and private persons all over the country. Therefore, the causes which operate to the disadvantage of Loudon bankers do not affect us in like degree, and hence it is that we are able to present to you a balance-sheet to-day of which we are not ashamed, and which I think will give you every satisfaction. (Applause.) I will now make a few observations on the details of the balance-sheet. In the first place, beginning on the debit side, you have the capital, which remains the same as it has been for the last three years. That capital is held by 3,206 shareholders. The reserve fund will be increased by the present proposed addition to £600,000, which is invested in Consols taken at 90, and is worth, of course, a very great deal more now than the figures they stand at in our books. Then you have the current, deposit, and other balances £ 7,106,293, which are £ 323,000 more than they were at this time last year. We have no less than 39,800 customers. Under the heading of "profit and loss" the net profit is practically the same as it was twelva months ago; there is a variation of only a few hundreds. Now at this point there is an alteration ia the form of the accounts submitted to you. For the pase thirty years it has been the practice of this bank to show under the heading of profit and loss in the balance-sheet the gross profit, and on the other side to take as an asset the amount of the expenses. It has always seemed to me to he a clumsy way of making up a balance sheet. However, although it used to be and still is the practice with some other banks to adopt that plan, we have thought ,it well to alter it in order to simplify the accounts. Therefore, you no longer see the current expenses taken as an asset on the credit side of the balance- sheet; and per contra, instead of the gross profit, you see the net profit given. Now, against this large sum of seven millions and upwards of current, deposit, and other accounts, you find on the other side a statement of the cash and investments, all of the gilt-edged types—first-class in every respect- amounting to £3,386,000, or not very far from half. As I said just now, I think ihtt the cash might be reduced if we had the means of putting it out in safe and legitimate banking advances, but at present, unfortunately, that is not the case. I hope that when trade improves we may be able possibly to put out a larger sum to advantage. In the matter of trade, people talk and write about the improvement which has already begun, but so far I must confess myself uuable to discern the com- mencement of any improvement yet. (Hear, hear.) At the same time, hope springs eternal in the human breast," and we all anticipate some amelioration in this respect. The premises, on the credit side of the balance-sheet, amount to £ 113,649. That is £12,500 more than it was twelve months ago, but in looking at that figure, you must remember that we have. I think, 101 branches and thirty-four agencies, and this increase which I speak of, E12 500, has arisen entirely from the purchase and building of freehold and lopg leaseholds with small ground rents. I may mention that since 1871 no less then. 988,000 has been written off the premises account; we are still steadily reducing it, and no doubt in time to come, unless the business should largely extend, and necessitate the establish- ment of new branches, it will be gradually reduced. But, anyway, I think if you take into consideration the number of branches and the valuable property that we have in the shape of freehold and long leaseholds at ground rents, yon will not regard the amount as unreasonable. It is our practice, and has been so for many years, to charge all enlargements and all repairs to premises to revenue account, and also sundry items for furnishing, and so on. (Hear, hear.) Passing to the profit and loss account, the current expenses are j32,000 more than they were twelve months ago, and the interest paid is £2,700 less. The interest paid to some extent varies with the value of money. I said just now that the Bank rate does not very largely affect our business, but it affects it in some places. Well, gentlemen, then you see, and I think it is cause for congratulation, that we propose to distribute the same dividend that we have done now for some time- (Applause.) In fact, there is one feature about this bank which I think gives us great cause for satisfaction and congratulation. Our dividends have always been progressive. We have never done as many banks have been obliged to do, namely, go back on our dividends—(hear, hear)—and I hope that if the shareholders support us in the cautious policy which now prevails at the board they will never go back. (Applause.) In speaking of the investments, you see the total of our investments is stated at £ 2,196,953. Of course those investments are worth a vsry great deal more at the present prices of those first-class securities than they stand at in our books. 1 was very much surprised the other day to read in one of the leading financial newspapers an article the object of which was to press upon bank directors that they ought to value their :investments in every balance-sheet at the market price of the day. It was with great astonishment that I read such a doctrine emanating presumably from a person who has experience in the City of London. I do not think there is much force in his argument with regard to any business, but certainly there is no force in it with regard to banks. Supposing, for example, we had set down in this balance-sheet the value of the investments calculated at the price of to-day. No shareholder would have been able to ascertain what business the bank bad done showing a profit, without making a calculation and deducting the increased value of the investments. Whilst next half-year possibly there might be a drop, or, at any rate. in some future half-year, and then, of course, all our calculations would have been upset, and if we had the rashness to distribute any part of that increased value we should in the future have to make it good, (Hear, hear.) Gentlemen, I think the course the bank adopts in taking Consols, for example, at 90 is a safe one. It is not likely they will fall below 90. It is true that as a trubtee I still hold some Consols which I bought at between 86 and 87. I forget the exact price, but the purchase of those took place just after the failure of Overend, Gurney, and Co. I do not think they are ever likely to touch that point, and I think that in taking them at 90 you nave adopted a very safe course. Tnere are two or three points in the report to which I should like briefly to refer. You will notice that the directors propose to inerea9e the capital of the bank. This is not because they want money for the purposes of the business, as you can see by the balance-sheet. But since the last augmentation of capital the current, deposit, and other balances have risen by no less than £ 700,COO, and the directors feel that, in order to maifltain a due proportion in the balance- sheet, the time has now arrived when the capital should be increased. Hitherto we have moved by stages of 10,000 shares. We think that we ought now to issue 20,000 new shares, representing jB20,000, half of which will be paid up as usual, and the other half will remaiu uncalled. These shares will be issued to shareholders, pro rata, who are on the register at the time of the allotment, on such terms and conditions as the directors may decide upon. They have not considered the question at present, and I am therefore not in a position to tell you what those terms and conditions will be. but it is probable that the issue will he deferred till late in the current half-year, and that. the piyiiK-nts may be rather more extended than nsivil, for the reason which I have just mentioned, namely, that we are not in want of money for the purposes of our business The next paragraph_ in the report announces the death of M r 1'. C. Sandars. Mr Bandars was a distinguished man in every sense of the word. He began life with a very distinguished University career, he held a professorship of law, and he was a well-known writer. He was, amongst pother things, the editor of the "Institutes of Justinian," and he was also a writer in the Press. and besides all this was an excellent man of business. I think I ought to say, on tahalf of my colleagues, that they announce his death with much regret, for in him they feel that they have lost not only a true friend, but also a trusted and valued colleague (hen r, Thf vacancy has been filled by the appointment of Sir Herbert Maxwell, who is a duly qualified shareholder, and of whom, being present, I need only say that he is a man of distinc- tion, both in political, literary, and antiquarian circles, and I feel sure that he will do his part in sustaining the reputation of the hank (applause). I think that I have touched on all the points that it is necessary to say anything about on the present occasion) aud therefore I shall conclude by moving, i That the reports of the directors and auditors for the half-year ending 31st Dec., 1884, be received and adopted, and printed for the use of the share- holders (applause). Mr Richard Michell seconded the resolution, which was carried unanimously. The Chairman next moved, That a dividend for the half-year be declared at the rate of 17 per cent, per annum, free of income tax." Sir Alexander Moncrieff, K.C.B., F.R.S., seconded this, and it was agreed to. On the motion of the Chairman, seconded by Sir Joseph Savory, Bart., M.P., Sir Alexander Moncrieff was re-elected a director of the bank. The Chairman also proposed the re-election to the board of Sir Herbert Maxwell, Bart., M.P., who retired, in the place of his predecessor. Sir Edwin H. Galsworthy, in seconding the proposition, said it must not be supposed that Sir Herbert Maxwell, concerning whom he entirely coincided with the observations of the chairman, was merely an ornamental director. He was an ornamental director, but the board took care to exact from him before he came on the board a promise that he would give all the time that was necessary to looking after the interests of the bank (applause), The re-appointment of Mr Brinsley Nixon, the other retiring director, was agreed to on the pro- position of the Chairman, seconded by Mr C. S. Read. Mr Nixon, in thanking the shareholders for his re-election, mentioned that this was the sixty-first time he had the honour of attending the halt-yearly meeting of the bank (applause). Mr Hanson moved the re-election of Mr Ernest Coopor, one of the auditors. He said that from the very happy position in which the proprietors found themselves, they were indebted to the wise adminis- tration of their excellent directors, and also to the great ability of the general manager and his compe- tent staff, but they also relied very much upon the integrity, fidelity, and competency of the auditors. He thought that by common consent it would be admitted that those gentlemen had fulfilled to the utmost the very exacting requirements of the clientele of this bank (hear, hear). The motion was seconded by Mr Fletcher and carried. On the proposition of Mr Hanson, seconded by Mr Chapman, Mr E. Figgess, the othor auditor, was re-elected. Mr Chester Foulsham proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the directors for the able manner in which they had looked after the affairs of the bank. He would, however, have been glad if they had been rather more explicit with reference to the proposed issue of new shares (laughter). Mr Fletcher seconded the vote, and said he could not help noticing the large amount that had been placed to reserve in the last few years, and in view of that there did not seem to him any necessity for issuing the new shares at a very heavy premium. He would add that very great credit was due to ths board for the very excellent balance-sheet presented, (applause). 1 he vote having been heartily accorded, The Chairman in reply, thanked the proprietors for their confidence. He quite appreciated the curiosity which had been displayed with regard to the issue of new capital, and was exceedingly sorry he could give no furbher information on the subject, as the directors had not determined on what terms they would make the issue. It would he obvious that any customer who desired a portion of the new capital would only have to purchase some shares, and by thus becoming a shareholder he would be entitled to receive his due proportion. He hud .now to propose-" That the thanks of this meeting be presented to the general manager and other officers t,f the bank for the zeal and ability with which they have discharged their respective duties." He was pleased this resolution fell to his lot, for from personal observation he was able to tell those present that the success of the bank was very largely due to the general manager and to the efficient staff under him (applause). He had often heard that bankers were omniscient with regard to the affairs and circumstances of the customers, but until he had the opportunity of noticing how thoroughly acquainted Mr Cross appeared to be with every detail coanected with the bank he could hardly have believed the extent to which that was true His attention was close and unremitting almost every day in the year, and the directors had reason to thank him for the mass of information which he was always ready and willing to give them on every matter which concerned the business of the bank. Under Mr Cross was a large staff of assis- tants in the shape of branch managers, clerks, &c Of them he could speak in many cases from personal observation, and the books and records of the bank showed that their business on the whole was con- ducted with great zeal and diligence, and with a successful result (applause). Mr Fletcher seconded the resolution, and it was carried with acclamation. The General Manager, in reply, thanked the pro- prietors for this renewed expression of their approval. If the progress and success of the bank was a cause of satisfaction to the shareholders, it must be so even iu a greater degree te the staff whose daily life was spent in the business and affairs of the bank (bear, hear). Encouraged by past Successes, and by the balance-sheet they had attained to, they would strive in future to keep up the traditions of the bank, and it would not be owing to any fault of theirs if the institution did not continue, as it had done in the past, to go forward and never to staud still or go back (applause). On the motion of Mr Louis Schlesinger, a cordial vote of thanks was accorded ,0 the chairman for presiding, and Mr Boord having briefly replied, the proceedings terminated.

PARK SLIP COLLIERY DISASTER RELIEF FUND. TO THE EDITOR. SIB,—Having read with much interest the report of the annual mooting of the executive committee of the above fund held at Bridgend on the 21st ulb., while agreeing with Mr T. J. Hughes in objecting to the resolution passed at a previous meeting held on the 11th July last, whereby the sum of dES.OOO was proposed to be transferred to the Miners' Provident Fund. subject to the rights of the beneficiaries being properly secured, on the ground that due notice had not been given to the committee that the said question would be discussed at the meeting of the 11th July, 1894, I fail to see that the motion of Mr Hughes to expunge such resolution from the minutes, in the absence of notice, was in order. Ib is all very well to dilate on the distinction between rescission and expunction of minutes— but notice to every individual member, 1 take it, is necessary for rescission or expunction. Where the committee blundered appears to have been in the passing of a resolution ab their meeting of the 11th July, 1894, withoubdue notice on the agenda papor, which justified the opposition of Mr Hughes and the party who voted with Mm, but to place themselves in order, and to substantiate their objection. Surely ib was duo to absent members of the committee to give notice to expunge the minute in question, the same to be considered ab the next meeting of the committee, or one specially to be convened. On the face of your report, the opinion of counsel should have been obtained by order of the committee alone, and here we have another instance of digressing from the strict rules of procedure. One noticeable feature is that no reference in the report i? made to the confirmation of the minutes of the pre- ceding meeting, and the last meeting evidently broke up without coming to any conclusion beyond defeating Mr Hughes' resolution. The best way out of the difficulty would be to summon a special meeting of the committee, inserting on the agenda particulars of a resolution to expunge, or better still, rescind the resolution passed on the 11th July, 1894, and subsequently authorise the secre- tary to take the opinion of counsel as to the exact wording of the resolution to transfer the JE3.000 to tho Miners' Provident Fund. Give notice to each member to discuss the same at a subsequent meeting, letting the majority decide the question, which would be final after confirma- tion.—I am, &c., "ORDEH,"

2ND V.B. THE WELSH REGIMENT. BRIDGEND DETACHMENT ORDERS. Drills for next week will he as under, viz Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, squad aud recruit drills. Parade in the Drill Hall at 8 p.m. in private clothes without rifles. Non-Coromissioned Officers and bugler for duty next week:—Sergeant P. Llewellyn, Corporals W. Fynn and F. Brown, and Bugler D. Pennell. Non-Commissioned Officers and bugler next for duty Sergeant W. Bradshaw, Corporals H. James and A. D. Cole, and Bugler F. J. Barter. Band practice will be held to-night (Friday) at 8.30, at the Bear Hotel. (Signed) D. R. DAVID, Major, Commanding Detachment. 1st February, 1895.

LOCAL NEWS. Q NEWCASTLE PARISH ROOMS. — The Waxworks- Entertainment, which was postponed m account of the weather, will be held on Tuesd. veniug next, the 5th instant, at 8 o'clock. 1339 The team to represent Bridgend against Tondu, at Tondu, to-morrow (SLtu rd a y).- Back, Ivor Thomas threequartera Thomas, Emery, J. Jones, E. Deere; half-backs, Gregory and James; forwards, Davies (captain) Prichard, Hay- man, Morgans, Thomas, Harvey, W. Deere and. Mahoney.

SETTLEMENT AT CW MAVON. A settlement has been arrived at between the Copper Miners' Tin-plate Company, Cwmavon. Works, and their employes, whereby a reduction of 10 per cenb, will be accepted for two months. Those employees receiving 3d and under a day will noti be afiected by the reduction.

LLANTWIT MAJOR. OBITUABY.—We have to record the death of Mrs. Betsy Lewis, who was one of the oldest inhabitants of this town. For the last three years, she has been bedridden, and on Thursday, the 24th, she passed away, at the ripe age of 81. Deceased was born in the year 1813, and was thus slightly over 81. The funeral took place on Saturday, and although the weather was so severe, several old persons were to be- seen amongst those present. On Monday, a child named David John, son of Mr William John, Rhua, was interred at the church- yard. The deceased, only 3t years old, died sud- 2 denly on the 21st. inst., from convulsions. THE WBATHER.-The weather has been very mixed this \veel" severe frosts and thaw seeming to struggle for the mastery. Saturday, however, the suow came, and has covered the ground ever since. At the time of writing (Tuesday), it seemed inclined to thaw, the weather beiug much milder.

GILFACH GOCR, A LECTURE was given in the Board School at the above place on Monday evening last, by Pastor T. D. Matthews, Nantymoel, subject, Christmas- Evans." The proceeds were for the benefit of the lately-formed English Baptist Church at this place. Despite the severity of the night there was a good attendance. The chair was ably occupied by Gomer Evans, Esq., colliery manager.

NANTYMOEL. NASTY MOEL MALE VOICE PARTY—Contem- plate giving a testimonial to their capable leader,. Mr John Phillips. The party will also compete at Brynmawr on Mabon's Day. May they win, as- they deserve to do. Miss S. EVANS, the youngest daughter of Mr D. Evans, Beehive, Nantymoel, passed in the first- class in the recent College of Preceptors'examina- tion under the tuition of Mrs Jones, of Summer- field Hall, Maesycwmmer. The young lady and those responsible for her brilliant success are to be heartily congratulated upon the result. Miss Evans received her elementary education at the Girl's School, Nanbymoel, where she showed herself to be a mosb promising scholar. To the unitiated it should be pointed out that this examination is difficult, and covers a wide field of subjects, including mathematics, French and drawing, together with a number of science subjects. As Miss Evans intends entering the Normal Departihenb of the Cardiff University, ib. is to be hoped thab the same measure of success will attend her efforts there.

NEATH. HUTCHISS' QUADBILLE BAND accept engagements for Balls, Parties, &c. Good time, new music. Terms moderate. —Apply G. T. Hutchins, 13 Loudon-road, Neath.

MARGAM. FABMF.ES' CLUB—Mr E. Knox, of Margam, was on Tuesday unanimously elected president of the Cowbridge Farmers' Club for the eusuing year.

PEN COED. THE PENCOED MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT SOCIETY, which hold their meetings every Saturday evening, at the Board School, Pencoed, was presided over on the 26th inst. by the President (Mr A. J. Williams, M.P.). at which meeting Mr Robert Leyshon read an excellent paper on Pencoed, its ancestry and resources." The President also addressed the Society with some veiy useful remarks which brought the meeting to a close. A joinb Commibtee Meeting of the Coychurch Lower, Pencoed and Coychurch Higher Parisb Councils was held at the Board Schoolroom, Pencoed, on Saturday, January 26th, 1895. The busineea of the meeting was to appoint two trustees of the Parochial Charities in place of the Churchwardens. There was presenb at the- meeting-Councillors Thomas Arthur, Llewellin. Jones, and Mr Thomas Rees, representing Coy- church Lower; Councillors H. David, J. Rees, Thomas M. Griffiths, Tom Williams, and Wm. Howell, representing Pencoed Councillors Griffith Edwards, Wm. Griffiths (Blackmill), Thoma& Howell. and E. Edward-, representing Coychurcho Higher. The Rev C. Ll. Llewellyn, Rector of the: Parish, also attended. Councillor Griffith Edwards was voted to the chair. Mr Thomas Griffiths moved that the meeting be adjourned for three weeks. The motion on being pub to the meeting was loat, and the business of the meeting was then proceeded with, resulting in the appoint- ment of Councillors Griffith Edwards, and Wm. Howell as Trustees of the Parochial Charities The meeting terminated with a vote of thanks to tha chairman.

A rlEIt DESTROYED BY FIRE. A Hull corrennondeut telegraphs that a large por- tion of the Maitolioitter, Sheffield, and Lincolnshire Railway Com pan J'H pier at New Holland baa been destroyed by tire. The outbreak was first noticed. early in the morning by Customs officers, and in- telligence of the affair was brought to Hull by one. of the Ferry station-ma«ters, stating thnt large- portions of the pi«r had heen demtroyodi and that they had not boen able to land. All day a steamer had been playing on the fire, but the flames were fanned by a strong south-easterly gale, and could not be extinguished till several thousand pounds worth of damage had been dono. The pier was uearly a inile IOllg, with a passenger station at the end, and the lauding slopes for the ferry station and the outer end of the pier have disappeared. Two of the company's passenger steamerx, the Doneastor and the Griiimby, had narrow escapes, being iloated and got away only juft in time. Great iu«ouveni« ence will be experienced in North Lincoinnhire, All thousands cross the lTumber dltily to and 1 rom Hull, who must now go round by DonoMttor, or else go up and down the riv r at tide time by regular steamers botween Hull and Grimsby. No one gus- taiued personal injury. _4_

A FAMILY SUFFOCATED AT GLASGOW. A woman and her live children wore found dead in bed recenty in a house in Middiebank Street, Glangow, llRving apparently been sullocated bv newr gas. TI-e name of the suffocated family u. Cassell, and the father is a shoo maker. As be. did not turn out to work &8 usual, a follow employe was sent to liis house with his wages. This man, failing to gain admittance, or to get- auy reply to kis repeated kno^kings, informed a constable of the fact, adding thut he was afraid something was wrong. He also stated that there was a strong smell of gas from the keyhole of <1.. door. The policeman thereupon forced an eu'- and found the whole family in bed. T' children were dead, and the fi^fier aud u r Q-Ie conscious, but the latter died befor* tl. M«r an ambulance. Strange to say, a light.- .» t-ti, on the table. Cassell diatl in the ltoyal .iflti.. 'tIo., It was thought he might rally, but his coustituuou WM not sufficiently strong to recover frotu the effects of the gas. Prin, and Published (for the Proprietors) by Jos GIBBS, at the Glamorgan Gazette Office. Quet it, Bridgend, in the Parish of Coiby Lowe. County of Glamorgan. F FEBRUARY let, 1895,