The Glamorgan Gazette

girths, Iprriaps, and gtfttjrs. itgy Notices of Births, Marriages, and Deaths (not ex- ceeding Twenty Words) are charged One Shilling and Sixpence for every additional Ten IVot-ds or less. MARRIAGES. JOHN-W ARREN.-On March 5th, at St. John's Church, Canton, by license, by the Rev. R. C. Barton, John W. John, King's Hall, St. Brides Major, to Annie, eldest daughter of S. Warren, Cowbridge.

BRIDGEND QUOIT CLUB. There was a large attendance at the adjourned meeting of the newly formed Quoit Club which was held at the Bear Hotel on Monday evening. The principal business was the election of officers, and this resulted as follows: — President, Mr D. McLellan; Vice-president, Mr P. J. Thomas; captain, Mr Henry Abbott; Committee—Messrs Lotimer, A. Patterson, H. Leach, J. G. Barber, J. Cox, C. E. Perry and J. Grant; Treasurer, Mr T. Williams; Secretary, Mr J. Gibbs. It was stated that arrangements were being made for the obtaining -of a club ground. The quoit club which has thus been "resurrected" after a lapse of five years, seems to be established on a sound basis, and it is hoped that during the coming summer, with a good ground and plenty of practice, some interesting imatches will be seen.

TONDU CHAMBER OF TRADE. —; *— The monthly meeting of the Chamber was held on Wednesday evening, at the Reading Room. Mr D. P. Thomas, presided, and there were also present.—Messrs D. Thomas, W. Moles, W. Waters, J. RicharJs, J. D. Morgan, D. Williams (treasurer) -and T. Morgan (secretary.) THE POLICB STATION The Secretary read the oorespondence in this matter, from which it appeared that the Standing Joint ommittJe of the County Council were awaiting the sanction of the Home Office to carry out the buildings. THE LATE LORD ABERDARB. On the motion of Mr J. D. Morgan, seconded by Mr D. Williams, a vote of condolence with Lady Aberdare and the family in their recenb bereave- ment, was unanimously passed, and the Secretary 'was instructed to forward the resolution to Lady Aberdare. THE REMOVAL OF SERGEANT JONES. The Chamber had under discussion the removal of Sergeant Evan Jones from Tondu to Skewen. It was stated that Sergeant Jones had won the respect and esteem of the inhabitants, and the district generally had benefitted by his fifteen months' stay. The Secretary was instructed to write to the Chief Constable expreEEing the regret of the to*n at the removal of Sergeant Jones from their midst, and testifying to his capabalities as a conscientious and painstaking officer. THE RAILWAY STATION. The Secretary read correspondence which had passed between himself and Mr Lambert the General Manager of the Grent Western Railway, with reference "o the changing of the name of the station e Chamber desired either the sub. etit, Tond u for Aberkenfag or "Aber- kenfig being placed on the Board at the station, it being stated that great inconvenience waS caused to the present traders by the name of the station being" Tondu". Mr Lambert replied to that the matter should receive bis consideration.

COWBRIDGE TOWN COUNCIL. THE CHURCH STREET PROPERTY A meeting of this Council was held on Thursday, the 7th inst., when there were present :-Thl Mayer (Councillor D. Thomas), Aldermen Tilley, Jeukius. John, and Thomas, Councillors J. Williams, J. Hopkin, W. L.Jenkins, J. W. Hall, W. G. J iimes, T. J. Parson;, W. Yorwerth, T. Rees, L. Jenkins J. Llewellyn, with the Town Clerk, the Borough Treasurer, and the Borough Surveyor. THE TOWN HALL IMPROVEMENTS. Tenders for the carrying out of this important work were opened as follows:—Thomas b.vans. Cardiff, £ 798 Cox and Bardo, Cardift, £ 758; Alfred G. James, Cowbridge, JE737 17s (if girders not used, IS 5s to be deducted); Hatheriey and Carr, Bristol, E865 and J. Shepton, Peuarth, Z751 15s. On the proposition of the Mayor, second ^<1 by Aldennan John, it was resolved that the tender of Mr Alfred James be accepted. EXPLOSIVES LICENSES. It was decided to grant Mr J. H. Bird ami Mr John Llewellyn licenses authorising them to keep any quantity, not exceeding 50 pounds, of gun- powder at their respective business premises, ;,ud further, that Mr W. D. Alexander, the Buiaugh Surveyor, be appointed officer under Section 69 of the Explosives' Act, 1875. PETITIONING THE TAFF VALE RAILWAY. The Mayor introduced a motion, of which he had given notice, and proposed That having regard to the poor accommodation provided for third class passengers travelling between Aberthaw and Ponty- pridd, this Council petition the Taff Vale Railway Company to provide more comfortable carriages in place of the open and draughty ones now in use." Alderman John seconded the proposition, which was carried nem. con. AN "EVICTION" NECESSARY. Owing to the carrying out of the improvements to the Town Hall, which will be commenced forth- with, the Mayor stated that he intended askiug the Chairman of the County Magistrates (Col. Hobart Tyler), for the use of the County Police-station for the holding of all meetings in connection with the Council during the progress of the alterations u> the Town Hall. The suggestion was unanimously agreed to. THE CHURCH STREET COTTAGES. In the recommendations of the Committees, which came up for confirmation, appeared the following The Town Clerk reported that in the interview he had had with Mr T. Mansel Frinklen, the Clerk to the Glamorgan County Council, that gentlemau had informed him that the County Council was pre- pared to convey to the Corporation, by way of part exchange for the Church-street cottages, the old South Gate Toll-house and garden, in the Borough of Cowbridge, and had suggested that the same should be valued for that purpose, and that the amount of such valuation should be taken as part of the £ 250 fixed as the purchase-money for the Church-street cottages. The County Council had left the carrying out of the matter in the hands of County Councillor Blandy Jenkins and County Councillor R. T. Bassett, and that he (the Town Clerk), had seen the latter gentleman on the subject. He further pointed ont that if it was intended to act on this suggestion, it would be necessary to communicate with the Local Government Board, with a view to their varying the terms of their ap- proval of the sale of the Church-street cottars, as such approval had been granted conditionally on the full purchase-money, JE250, being invested in Government annuities. Alderman John proposed that the Committee recommend that the offer and suggestions of the County Council in the matter be accepted and adopted and that the Town Clerk be instructed to communicate with the Local Government Board accordingly. Councillor James seconded. An amendment was moved by Councillor W. L Jenkins and seconded by Alderman Jenkins that the offer and suggestions of the County Council be not entertained by the Council of the Borough. On the amendment being put, three voted for and six against it, and it was declared lost. Aldermen Tilley then proposed as a further amendment that the Town Council be recom- mended to accept the offer of the County Council, but that the purchase money be handed over to the local subscription committee. Alderman Thomas seconded.—Five voted for the amendment and six against, and it was declared lost. The original proposition was then put and carried.

A COWBRIDGE BOY IN MATABELELAND. Mr W. T. Gwyn, the Hon. Secretary of the Young Men's Institute, Cowbridge, has received the following letter headed Tati, Matabeleland, S.A., February 8th, 1895. Dear Mr Gwyn,—Have just come across the prospectus of the Young Men's Institute. A o the soa of my father, the late Dr Edwards, Cowbridge, I am of course a lover of anything that marks of progress. Kindly accept the small contribution with best wishes from a Cowbridge old bov in Matabeleland.—Yours very truly, TELFORD EDWAEDS. Enclosed with the letter was a draft, for throe guineas. The love of home and country is evid- ently strong in the heart of this Cowbridge boy in far off Matabeleland. May his be every success in life, coupled with health, wealth and happiness.

THE PRUDENTIAL ASSURANCE COMPANY. In our advertisment columns will be found the report and statement of this flourishing :Company. As showing the remarkable amount of business done, we would draw our readers attention to the fact that during the last twelve months alone the increase has been nearly two and three quarter millions of pounds. In the list of loans on muncipal and other rates, we find that there is a balance due to the Company of £ 3,437 6s 8.1, from the Bridgend Local Board-now the District. Council- The assets of the Company have now reached the sum of twenty-one millions of pounds, and this alone should be proof that the Company is a perfectly sound, reliable and energetic one. The district superintendency of Bridgend is in the capable hands of Mr George Harris.

BRIDGEND URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL. -♦ THE VACANCY ON THE COUNCIL. The ordinary meeting of the Bridgend Urban District Council was held on Tuesday evening, Mr W. Buckley presiding. There were also present:—Messrs W. McGaul, W. M. Richards, G. Bevan, J. Gregory, Oliver Sheppard, and D. H. Lloyd, with the clerk (Mr T. J. Hughes), and the surveyor (Mr Morgan Williams.) THE LATE eoTINCITJ^R COWEI;. The following resolution was unanimously adopted by the CouncilThat this Council records its deep sorrow at the sad and sudden death of Mr T. W. Owen, one of its respected members, and that it expresses its sincere sympathy with Mrs Owen and family in their sorrowful bereavement." The Clerk was directed to send a copy of the resolution to the widow. THE VACANCY ON THE COUNCIL. The Clerk said that in view of the sudden and lamentable calamity which had occurred in connection with the Council, he had thought it wise to look up the law wit.h regard to the filling of casual vacancies. He had obtained for the guidance of the Council a memorandum from the Local Government Board dealing with the question. Thry would remember that under the Public Health Act, 1875, the old Local Board had had power in a case Ilf this kind to have added a member to their number from without their body without an election, but under the Act which constituted the present Council no such power appeared to be given, but casual vacancies had to be filled by an election in the ordinary way. If the vacancy had occurred within six months of the next ordinary election there would have been no necessity for an election, but under the existing circumstances an election was com- pulsory within a month after due notice of the vacancy had been given by two members of the Council. On the other hand, if no such notice was given, the vacancy need not be filled until the next ordinary election They must either leave the seat vacant—although he did not think the Act contemplated such a thing in spirit-or they must give formal notice of the vacancy. The Chairman thought it would be more satis- factory to the town if they proceeded to fill the vacancy at once. Mr Lloyd suggested that the chairman should call a public meeting, and if the ratepayors thought fit, the gentleman who was next on the poll at the last election (Mr W. Francis) might take the seat. This would save the expense of an election. The Chairman That is a question for the electors entirely. Mr 8heppard said they were bound to have a con- test if more than one candidate stood if howevr only one was nominated, the Returning Officer would declare him duly elected. Mr Bevan thought it would be a very good thing if a contested election could be avoided. The Chairman said they might suggest the de- sirability of such a course being adopted to the public meeting. Mr Lloyd said it might appear that they were pro- ceeding with undue haste. Could not the matter be left over for a fortnight ? Mr McGaul: What would be gained thereby ? Mr Lloyd: Nothing. Mr Sheppard said that an the funeral had actually taken place, he thought they should proceed to fill the vacancy as soon as possible. It was eventually decided that the chairman should call a towns meeting for Wednesday or Thursday next, whichever day would be the most suitable. THE WEIGHER'S WAYS. The Finance Committee recommended that as the public weigher (Mr W. Davies) handled a large amount of public money in the course of a year, they considered that they were properly justified in re- commending that his wages be increased to Li per week.-The recommendation was adopted. THE NEW RATE. The Surveyor produced his estimate for the en- suing year, which showed that a rate of Is 6d in the pound would be requisite. CAEDRE-STREET. An undertaking on the part of house owners to carry out the necessary private improvements in Caedre-street was accepted. RANDALL-STREET. It was decided to serve notice on Randall-street builders informing them that the plans of the houses proposed to be built there had not been passed, and requesting them to desist from proceeding any further with the buildings until proper plans were deposited. DRAIN. The Surveyor stated that he had seen the Rev. W. John in respect to the drain laid in Mr Randall's field, from Merthyrmawr-road to South-street, but he (Mr John) had no recollection in the matter. The late Surveyor however told him that he gave per- mission for the drain being laid upon condition of its being removed if called upon. The Clerk The statement of the late Surveyor puts us out of court with reference to any claim. THE TOWN HALL. The Clerk reported that he had been supplied by Mr Thomas Stockwood with a copy of the three deeds which constituted the trust of the Town Hall. The original deed bore date August 1844, and was made between a number of prominent noblemen and gentlemen, all of whom had now passed away. It recited first of all the conception of the Town Hall. r and then recited that it was to be built by public subscription and uced for the public- Then it related as to a part of the basement being set apart for police rooms and for the magistrates-the then Earl of Dunraven, Lord Adare and the Right Hon. C. R. M. Talbot M.P., to be trustees. Then it dealt with the conveyance of land to the trustees, powers vested in the committee as to reparing the hall and what the hall was to be used for. There was a proviso that no meeting for party politics or other controversial maters be held. inere was a lease bearing almost the same rate. They had first of all a declaration of taunt. <MI the premises, a con- veyance of the tdte to the tru'" es. who had leased a portion of the basement t vine county for 999 years -the yard, file d and the ffi. es now held by Mr Lloyd Edwards, and <.rh ..c-jommodation up- stairs for the use of the m!i:i.t'ates. The remainder of the Hail vested in tii- irustees. Now they came to the A of 1894, ich contained certain powers vested in Parinli .neils which were also conferrable upo. an Urban Oouncil is respect to public build ii-r-. &c. The eiause stated 1 To pro- vide or secure buildings tor public purposes and for meetings, and for any rpose connected wnn parish business or with ue powers — 'Iv.tios of the Parish Council- orjwteh ratings.' Mr Hughes stated that he was not iu u potion lv uuvise the Council whether they w ;re empowered under the Act of 1894 to ttcquire tti, rvn Hall. The Chairman said he w not aware that there were any elected member* n the trust, but there were, he now saw. 1 he Clerk They are self !pcted. Mr Lloyd thought if the whole matter were laid be. fore the gentlemen who aer/%1 is trustees now, they would no doubt deal with 1 h- matter in its right light, and wouid mert the vuiK'il- The Council desired the hall for the public good, and for the public utility, and he did not see that the trustees could have any reason for withholding it. If the whole scheme were laid before the trustees, he did not doubt the.' would give it up. The Clerk: They only have power to alter the trust. Mr Lloyd: They can make the Council trustees. The Chairman: That's the doubtful point. Mr McGaul thought the Council could get a portion of the waste land and offices for them- selves. The Clerk suggested that he should obtain the opinion of the Urban District Council's Association on the point. Mr Lloyd moved that the clerk do so, and it was agreed to. MEDICAL OFFICERSHIP. The Chairman gave notice that he would move the reappointment of Dr Randall as Medical Officer for the ensuing year, at the next meeting. SRWER8. A communication was read from a Municipal As- sociation requesting the Council to sign a memorial (as well as secure the favourable support of their Parliamentary representative), in support of a bill which is now before the House of Commons, to amend the Public Health Acts more especially in reference to the distinction between private and public sewers, the law at present being very unsatisfactory as regarded the respective liabilities of local authorises and property owners. STAGE LICENSE. Mr T. Stockwood applied for a stage play license for the Town Hall, which was granted. A DANGEROUS CORNER. Mr Charles S. Morris forwarded a petition, signed by several influential townsmen, which called attention to the very acute angle which the road made at the bottom of Mr Thorne's garden in Park-street, wbich was very dangerous. Mr Thorne had agreed to allow a portion of his garden to be taken for the purpose of improving the corner. On the proposition of Mr McGaul, seconded by Mr Lloyd, the matter was referred to the Works Committee. TENDERS. The following tenders were accepted:—Gratings, Mr Stanley, Tondu (6s 41d) cesspool cleaniug, Mr Walter Richards, Nolton-streetl(IGa 6d each); shoeing, Mr Henry Phillips; oats and bran, Mr Henry Goulden hay and straw, Mr Peter David, Coychurch. The tenders for plumbing and tools were referred to the Works Committee with power to decide and those for stationery to the Finance Committee.

OGMORE AND GARW URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL. 4. THE "DIVORCE" OF THE GARW. The ordinary meeting of the Ogmore and Garw Urban District Council was held at the Fox and Hounds, Brynmenin, on Monday. At the com- mencement there were present Messrs D. John, T. Lewis, Israel Harrison, W. Llewellyn, C.C., J. Owen, D. S. Rees, Jenkin Williams, and Dr Parry. The Clerk (Mr S. H. Stockwood), was unable to be present owing to illness, and Mr D T Williams was present as Deputy Clerk. INFORMATION WANTED Mr D. John was voted to the chair pro. tem., and before the commencement of the business Mr Israel Harrison wanted to know on whose authority the ordinary meeting of the Board had been postponed from the previous Monday to that day. The Deputy Clerk thought the agenda con- vening the present meeting clearly explained the reasons for the postponement. He added that the Clerk had been informed that owing to the County Council and School Board elections being held on the 4th inst., it was improbable that there would be sufficient members present to form a, quorum. After consulting with the Chairman, the Clerk had decided to send out a notice post- poning the meeting, this action being taken solely with a view to studying the convenience of members of the Council. Mr J. Blandy Jenkins arrived at this juncture and took the chair. He informed the members that he held himself responsible for the action taken, and added it was for the members to pasB a vote of censure upon him if they liked. It was resolved that the Chairman's explanation be accepted by the Council. OARW SEWERAGE SCHEME. The Chairman reported that Mr Chatterton had visited Bridgend to meet the Garw Ward Work's Committee with reference to the Sewerage Scheme, and had visited the Ogmore and Garw Valleys and inspected the plans of the proposed works. The Chairman added that he had thought it advisable that as Mr Chatterton was on the spot, he should also inspect and report upon the Ogmore scheme, and that he had asked Mr Chatterton to do this on his own responsibility. His action in the matter was of course subject to the confirmation of the Council, and if they did not consider he was justified in the course he took in asking Mr Chatterton to report on the Ogmore fcheme, he would pay that gentleman s costs himself. It was unanimously resolved that the action of the chairman be confirmed. The Chairman stated that Mr Chatterton would report to the Council in due course. THE GARW 44 DIVORCE." Mr Israel Harrison had on the agenda paper the following motion:—"That the Council considers the desirability of constituting each ward of the Council's district, a separate Urban district." The Chairman, in view of the early presentation of Mr Chatterton's report, which would centain valuable information and data which would be useful for the due consideration of this question, suggested that Mr Harrison should defer his motion until Mr Chatterton's report was received. Mr Harrison, wiith the consent of the Council, accordingly deferred his motion. The following motion was standing in the name of Mr D. Matthews:—That application be made to the Glamorgan Comfy Council to divide the Garw Ward of the Council's district into three wards." This question was also deferred for a similar reason to the last one. FIRE EXTINGUISHING APPARATUS. The Surveyor (Mr Dawkin Williams) reported on this question as follows:—"I have given my attention to the selection of different sites for storing the fire extinguishing apparatus required for the several wards, and as such articles require constant supervision, and should be under the direct control of some responsible person, I recommend that the Council should take up some land adjoining the Police Station at Pontycymmer whi< i» would be central for Blaengarw and Pontycyniim-r, and also that they take land at the Police Station, Tynewydd, Ogmore Valley, both sites being easily accessible from the main road. The keys of th. stores could be kept at each Police Station, and as the store requires 1: lengthy owing f- ■' necessity of drying the bote during all weaut^i >fter being used, I Ao^UIurther recommend 'b il the consent of the County Council can be obtain- the whole length of the fence walls at the Polioe Station should be utilised as a part of such building «ed the police put in charge of the same, and of the apparatus." The Clerk was directed to write to the County Council accordingly. There was no other business of public interest.

The people of Porthcawl ought to be well versed in science after this-or, at any rgt- i that branch of it known as analytical cheroi* y On the occasion of the water enquiry the ter part of Friday was taken up by analytio.nl "Kj>erts, who submitted such elaborate analyses ths*. t orthcawlites began to grow fatigued.

I fHE MASTERSHIP OF THE GLAMORGAN HUNT. PRESENTATION TO MR R. T. BASSETT. DR NATJNTON DAVIES' DENIAL. Probably one of the largest gatherings of hunting men ever seen in Cowbridge was held at the Bear Hotel in that ancient and loyal borough on Tuesday, when the tenant farmers of the Vale assembled to do honour to Mr R. Thurston Bassett, C.C., the Master of the Glamorgan Hunt. Mr Rees Thomas, of Boverton, presided, and amongst the large company present were The Mackintosh of Mackin- tosh, Colonel J. Hobart Tyler, Mr 0. H. Jones (Fonmon), General Watson, Mr Walter Shirley, Mr Tudor Owen (Ash Hall), Mr W. H. Lewis, Mr W. R. Homfray, Mr J. I. D. Nicholl (Merthyrmawr), Dr Naunton W. Davies, Mr T. R. Hamlen- Williams, Mr D. J. Jenkins, Mr W. H. P. Jenkins, Dr Shepherd, the Mayor of Cowbridge (Councillor David Thomas), Mr Thurstan Bassett (Beaupre). Mr W. B. B. Bassett (Beaupre), the Rev H. C. Davies (St Hilary), Mr Moynan, and Messrs H. L. Prichard (Bryntirion), J. Muir (Margam), David Spencer, W. A. James, C. Williams (Bonvilstone), W. Vizard, J. G. Thomas (Cardiff), J. B. WaymAD (Brocastle), Allen (St. Hilary), C.Edmondes, W. V. Hnntley, R. H. Hughes (National Provincial Bank), L. P. Marshall (London and Providcial Bank), Henry Thomas (St. Hilary), W. Emerson, L, G. Williams, J. Board (Sheepleys), William Jones (Splott), John Rees (Corner's Well), J. Williams (Castleton), Alfred Phillips (Cardiff), Morgan Rees, — Hopkins (Llantwit), Enoch Morgan, — Thomas (St.. Lythans), Lewis Jenkins, 1 G. D. Thomas, Joseph E. Spencer, — Miles (Prisk), E. Loughor (Trcguff), J. Davies (Pontypridd), Thomas Sutton, — Lane (Hollybash), Edmund Lewis (St. Mary Hill), Daniel Jenkins (Ruthin), W Jones (Beaupre), S. Gibson, Llewellyn Thomas, W. Thomas (Llandough), John Williams (Merthyr Mawr). and D. Watts, (The Downs). The Secretary (Mr J. W. Hall), who was mainly instrumental in making the gathering a success, read letters from Lord Tredegar and Messrs J. D. Carne (Nash Manor), E. Knox (Margam), and R. Forrest (St. Fagan's), all of whom were unable to attend in con- ,a- ents. sequence of other engagements. Mr J. W. Hall, the Secretary, read the address which was as follows :— To Ralph Thurston Bassett, Esq., M.F.H. I "Sir, — We, the undersigned tenant farmers resident within the district of the Glamorgan Hunt, desire to offer you our hearty congratulations on your attainment to the honourable position of high- sheriff of your native county. A rumour has obtained currency that, in con- sequence of attacks made through a local newspaper, reflecting on the management of the Hunt, you have had in contemplation your retirement from the mastership. "We, therefore, avail ourselves of the earliest opportunity of strongly deprecating these unworthy attacks of anonymous scribblers, and of expressing our sincere and earnest hope that you will on no account resign your position as master, and, further, that you may long continue to fill the post. In doing this we wish to bear testimony to the generous, able, and conscientious manner in which you have always discharged the duties of that position, and especially (for this naturally appeals to us as tenant farmers) to the W,'lY you have, without favour or respect of persons, restrained wanton trespass and damage, thereby showing a commend- able consideration for our interests. For these and other reasons, the Glamorganshire Hounds are heartily welcome to our holdings. 44 You will please accept our assurance that, aa long as you continue w act as master of the hounds, you may rely upon our co-operation and support as heretofore, but, should you unfortunately relinquish the mastership, then our attitude with regard to the Hunt must become a question for future considera- tion. 44 Wishing you, Mrs Bassett, and each member of Jour family, the blessings of long life, health, and appiness, 44 We remain, sir, Your faithful servants, "Rue THOXAS, Chairman. "J. W. HALL, Secretary." The address, which was signed by over 350 tenant farmers, and which is the work of Messrs. Daniel Owen and Co., is beautifully illuminated on vellum. It is floral in style, and on the side borders are iD- scribed most artistically and in alphabetical order the names of the subscribers. In this respect the address is certainly unique. At the top is a good portrait of Mr Bassett on horseback, and at the bottom is another sketch showing the Master with his hounds, with Cox, the huntsman, on one side, and Harry Lush, the whip, on the other. The address is enclosed in a massive Chippendale frame, with oak mounting. The Chairman explained at the outset that the presentation had been confined entirely to tenant farmers, to whom no one had been kinder than Mr Bassett—(cheers)— since be undertook the mastership of the Glamorgan Hounds. Mr Bassett might rest assured that he could go to their homesteads in the future as he had done in the past, and receive the heartiest welcome (cheers). He hoped Mr Bassett would pay no attention to one or two persons who had written letters to the press, but would grant the desires of those who had attached their signatures to the address, and continue to carry the born (cheers). The Chairman then referred to the services Mr Bassett had rendered in bringing to the Vale of Glamorgan thoroughbred horses, and establishing a show at which their colts might com- pete for prizes. Wherever Mr Bassett went with his hounds he never met a farmer with a frown upon his face (cheers). The Chairman then eulogised the staff of the Hunt, and said the pack was as good as could be found in any part of the country. He con- cluded by presenting the address, and hoped that he would live to hear as many whoo-hoops in the future as in the past. Mr Emerson (Sweldon), tor the eastern portion of the county, Mr Edmund Lewis (St Mary Hill), for thenorthen, MrD. J. Jenkins, Mr J. E. Spencer, and Mr John Rees, all tenant farmers, spoke in highly eulogistic terms of the consideration always shown them by Mr Bassett, and one and all expressed the hope that the gallant master of Crosswayfl would carry the horn for many a long day to come. Mr Bassett, on rising to respond, was received enthusiastically. He expressed deep gratitude on behalf of himself, Mrs Bassett, and the little girls at home for the sympathy shown by the tenant farmers at this critical moment. He could assure them that Mrs Bassett and family felt the unjusti- fiable attacks made upon himself as much as he did. That these attacks were unjustifiable seemed to be endorsed by the meeting that day and the address which had been presented to him. (Cheers.) There was only one point in those attacks to which he would refer, and that was the question where the money had gone to. One of the best authorities in England-Mr Murray Browne, since deceased-had been asked how much it cost to keep a pack of hounds, and he replied that for a provincial country the average would be JE1,600 a year for two days a week. He ;Mr Bassett) had received nothing like £ 1 000 and hunted the country three days a week for'seven or eight years. They would see he had not put much in his pocket. (Laughter.) Besides, he had never touched a penny of the subscribers' money- that was dealt with by the secretary and treasurer. The wages came to £500 a year, and the keep of the hounds jE350 to JE400, to say nothing of the hundred and one other items which were necessary to keep up the establishment. He knew some subscribers thought the men were mounted out of their money, but that was a very mistaken notion. He had always found the mounts for the men connected with the hunt, and be ventured to may that they were fairly good ones. (Cheers.) He did not wish to leave the district-he had too many friends there; but if he could not be master in his 'own way he would not b9 master at aU. He thought once of taking the hounds over himself, I but to that there would possibly be an objection cai- the jart of landowners and subscribers, and there was a large army of people in this country who inclined to hunt for nothing. That would mean a bigger field and more damage. He felt inclined to resign when the letters appeared in the press, bat he consulted his friend Lord Tredegar, who was of opinion that he must go on to the end of the seasoa. There was one condition upon which he would continue the mastership, and that was that if another attack of the same kind was made upon hint he should be at liberty to resign at once. He reminded the company that he was only obliged to have 25 couple of hounds in the kennels, aud that the horses, bridles, saddles, and everything else belonged to him. He did not think he could put the matter plainer. He hoped the landowners and subscribers would let him know by Saturday whether they would accept the conditions be had imposf because he had an offer from another count -hich, perhaps, might be snapped up in a very lyg. He again thanked the tenant farmer.. oped he would be able again to ride over their 1. (Cheers.) Dr Naunton Davies expressed a hope that Mr Bassett would act as master for many years to come. He (Dr. Davies) had been greatly misrepresented, his name having been associated with the letters to which reference had been made. He was quite sure Mr Bassett knew as well as he did that he had nothing whatever to do with the attacks made upon him (cheers). He knew nothing aoout them, and if the man who had concocted them, knowing that others had been blamed, did not come forward and own their authorship, be was a cowaid (cheerc). It was particularly hard that tenant farmers, many of whom were good friends of his, should believe him guilty of the malicious reports propagated by one or two persons. As many of them knew, he had | written articles on hunting- under the Mm-dc-plunte of Covertside," and he hoped to contribute more to the literature of hunting (hear, hear). It would be most dishonourable if under that name he wrote in favour of the master, and under another attacked him. If he could be guilty of any isuch act be would be utterly ashamed of himself (cheers). Y:6 did not kuow anywhere a better pack of hotsnds or a better staff of men, and he had had splendid sport since he had hunted with the Glamorganshire. H had always admired Mr Bassett, and he hoped if thv gentleman was present who wrote the anonymou letters, he would have the manliness to get up and confess it to the meeting (cheers). A proposition that Mr Bassett's conations be then and there accepted was withdrawn, and the meeting concluded with a vote of thanks to the I chairman.

BRIDGEND CHAMBER OF TRADE. At the monthly Committee meeting held on Thursday, the 7th March, there were present Messrs D. H. Lloyd (chairman), Thomas Edwards, jun., J. Brown, J. W. Sankey, D. McLellan, W. J. Lewis, and W. LI. Wallington. KARKRT PURCHASE. A letter was read from Mr T. J. Hughea. tcierk to the Urban District Council, stating tbut their last meeting a deputation had been appointed to wait upon Mr Randall in further reference hereto. PUBLIC WEIGHING-KACHINK. It was reported that some time ago the Local Board had, at the request of the Chamber, authorised that an alteration should be made in the form of ticket in use at the Weighbridge, but that up to the present time this had not been done. On the proposition of Mr J. Brown, seconded by Mr Thomas Edwards, the Secretary was instructed to write to the Clerk of the Urban District Council, calling attention to the matter. FACTORY AND WORKSHOPS' ACT. Mr W. J. Lewis called attention to the Bill about to be presented into Parliament, and it was thought advisable that the Chamber procure half a dozen copies of the Bill for the nse of the members. LAND-TAX. This matter was referred to, and ordered to be placed on the agenda, for consideration at the next meeting. NEW macBSBS. The following were proposed, and duly elected members of the Chamber.—Mr Arthur Phillips, Mr James (manager, Eastman's Ltd.), and Mr William Salter, sen.

LOCAL NEWS. ♦ 't We understand that Connty Councillor William Powell, has taken West House, Park-street, Bridgend, which was formerly occupied by Mr Edwin Price. DRESSMAKING.—A boon to the inhabitants of Bridgend and neighbourhood. W. C. Edwards, Draper (opposite the Town Hall) Bridgend, is • opening a Dressmaking Department, on the 20th. Fit and style at popular prices. Give him a trial. TO-NIOHT !—At the Town Hall this (Friday) evening the well-known preacher and lecturer, the Rev Pedr Williams, of London, will deliver his lecture on Lowell, Poet Preacher, and Prophet." The rev gentlemen is a born orator, possessing all the elocutionary charm and theatrical impressiveness of the greatest among men. THE JEWS AND THE GOSPEL,—On Wednesday evening last, a meeting in connection with the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel amorg the Jews, was held in the Lecture-room, at the Wesleyan Chapel, Bridgend. The J. P. Jones occupied the chair. The Rev J. S. Johns, English Baptist minister, read a portion of scripture and offered prayer. The deputation was the Rev Aaron Sternberg, who gave a most interesting address, and described the introduction of Christianity into Russia in the year 986 A.D., when the Greek Church was introduced and became the Established Church of the country. He said the Jews and the "Stundists were persecuted in Russia, because they refused to conform to the nsnages of the Greek Church, and would not worship the fixtures or images in the churches. The contributions from the local auxiliary during the last year amounted to over J613. A collection was taken at the close of the moeting.

KODAKETTES. [BY SNAP-SHOT.] There was a vacant chair at Tuesday's meeting of the Bridgend Urban District Council. That chair had hitherto been occupied by Councillor T. W. Owen, who has gone to his long rest, regretted and esteemed by all. I didn't like the way the vote of condolence was introduced and passed. The Coun- cillors present had not even the decency to rise. Some of them sprawled half over the table, and the vote was carried as if it had been an every-day occurrence. Thank goodness the town has not shown such an unsympathetic demeanour. The gathering at the funeral on Monday was a fully representative one, and I was glad to see that men of all creeds, political and religious, could assemble together to pay the last tribute of respect to one who was worthy of all respect and esteem. The filling of the vacancy on the Council caused by the lamented death of Mr T. W. Owen seems likely to be productive of some considerable excite- ment. There are those who think that the next man on the poll at the recent election has a bona fide claim to the seat. There are others, however, who think that the seat should be occupied by a genuine working man, such as the late Councillor was. Then again there are others who say that if there is to be an election, it should be an open one, and that anyone who would, should stand, provided he could get nominated. This is, of course, perfectly right, and it remains to be seen whether the town's meeting, to be called next Wednesday evening, will fall in with the suggestion of the Council and agree on one man, or whether there will be a contest. I should think the chances are distinctly in favour of there being a contest, and that a warm one. However, time will tell. I have heard a good many names mentioned in connection with the vacancy, and amongst what I may call the Probables," are Messrs W. Sutcliffe, T. Brown, Richard Jenkins, and Morgan Stradling, whilst the "Possibles" include Messrs E. Preece, senr.. W. Jenkins, Michael Davies, W Francis, C. Sefton, J. Cox, and J. W. Lawrence. There's nothing like variety, and if all these gentlemen stand, the electors will have considerable difficulty in choosing the most suitable man. I am not aware at the present moment of the date of the nominations, and until these are duly and formally handed in, I shall refrain from saying anything about the election. If the ratepayers can be saved the expense of a contested election, it would be a good thing, but I am very much afraid there will have to be a fight, as some of the men enumerated above are stubborn withal, and very difficult to convince. The Great Western Railway Company, acting on the suggestion of the Bridgend Chamber of Trade, have been and gone and done a nice thing. They have planted a coal siding exactly opposite the Cemetery, and the coal dust won't for certain add to the beauty of the spot where our beloved dead are buried. In addition to this the merchants have added tenpence a ton to the haulage, owing to the extra distance and inconvenience of access to the new siding, and the unlucky purchasers will have to make this up. I wonder whether the Chamber of Trade contemplated this when they brought forward their petition to the Great Western Railway Com- pany. It looks very much like giving a benefit with one hand and taking it away with the other. Who is responsible for the filling in of graves at the new cemetery ? It is rather a gruesome ques- tion but a pertinent one all the same. Some poor man was buried on Saturday. On Monday evening his grave had not been filled in. Only about a barrowful of earth had been thrown on the coffin, barely sufficient to cover it. This is a scandalous thing. Even if the man was a pauper, that is no reason why his remains should not be treated with respect. Death is the one great leveller, and surely the mortal remains of any man, be he pauper or be he prince, should be decently interred. Ten minutes would have sufficed to fill up the grave, but this was not done. The feelings of many who attended Mr Owen's funeral on Monday were outraged at this exhibition of gross neglect or carelessness, and it is hoped an enquiry will be made into the matter. I am glad to see that the Cowbridge Town Council is about to petition the Taff Vale Railway Company with reference to the poor accommodation afforded third class passengers on the line between Aberthaw and Pontypridd. My business takes me down that portion of the line very frequently, and the more I go, the more am I convinced that the T.V.R. have no due regard for the comfort of those who bring them in a large revenue. The present third class compartments are little better than cattle trucks. They are always cold and draughty, at night the light is so bad that you have almost to strike a match to look for it, and altogether they are about the most uncomfortable sort of conveyance one could possibly get into. I sincerely hope that the petition may bear fruit, and that we shall be able to go to Cowbridge or Pontypridd over that particular line without being rendered liable to severe chills and other ailments to which the human flesh is heir to—in conjunction with the T.V.R. boxes. So the Bridgend Quoit Club has been "resurrected." So far so good, but I hope the good work won't end with the resurrection. We want the ascension also-the ascension into public favour, and if this follows, then the success of the Club is ensued. We have not too many ways of wiling away a leisure hour in Bridgend, and if the Quoit Club can give us one more opportunity of doing this, then thrice welcome be its resurrection. I have a vivid recollection of playing quoits down at Ogmore last summer. I had never handled the mystic circle before, though I had seen many a quoit match played. I essayed the task of ringing the hub as I believe it is called, but instead of ringing the hub, I rang a spectator, and the language which ensued was enough to turn the air blue, in fact I believe the said air could have been cut with a knife for the spare of ten minutes. I don't know whether I shall honour the new Club with offering the privilege of enrolling me as a menfter. Perhaps some of the members might consider it advisable to offer me a premium for abstaining from doing so However, here's success to the Bridgend Quoit Club! Mr Ralph Thurston Bassett, M.F.H., ought to feel highly honoured. I don't know whether there has yet been in the annals of fox-hunting a case where some 350 tenant farmers banded themselves together to ask a Master of Hounds to hunt over their holdings. If not, the Cowbridge meeting on Tuesday is certainly a record, and one of which Mr Bassett ought to be duly proud. Mr Bassett is an ideal M.F.H., but I am afraid he has been rather thin-skinned. I know it is very disagreeable to see nasty, spiteful, untruthful remarks appearing in the public Press about one, but when a man's conscience is clear, when he is backed up by a host of loyal friends, what need he fearP That these loyal friends were true as steel was proved on Tuesday, and I sincerely hope that Mr Bassett will for many years to oome, carry the horn through the Vale, and give the followers of the Hunt that splendid sport for which the Glamorgan Hunt has always been noted. Liberalism in South Glamorgan seems to be in a queer way. Notwithstanding the concession of Mr Arthur J. Williams, M.P., with regard to his claims in connection with the Vale of Glamorgan Railway—this concession being apparently thrown out as a sop to the Barry Radical Cerberus-the Barry Rads. have meL and expressed their indigna- tion in no unmeasured terms at the attitude of indifference indulged in by the Liberal Hundred, and considered that the time had arrived when the party should take independent action.-The Chairman at the meeting in question came to the conclusion that there wis a large number of traitors in their camp, and they must be discovered and turned out of their ranks.So much for South Glamorgan Liberalism. It was unanimously resolved 44 That the time had come when it was necessary to form a Radical Association to spread the principles of progress and reform, which principles we consider have been neglected in this district." Mr Arthur J. Williams, M.P., may well cry, Save me from my friends." Barry has gone strong for Major Wv i.dhain Quin, and there is likely to be a particularly lively time in that section of the division With the Radical camp divided against itself, and everyone calling one another uncomplimentary names-such as "traitor," etc.—the CunisrVvative and Unionist candidate should have a iook in. They are not fools down Barry way-andi;:rry is stated to be the key of the position-and if tui- is so it will be a tough fight when the Parliatu atary Election comes on.

A LETTER-WRITING IMPOSTOR CAUGHT AT NEATH. At the Neath Borough Police-court on Wednes- day, before the Mayor (Councillor Hopkm Morgan), and Councillor J. B. Davies, Matthew Austine Carline, alias John Smith, 45 years of age, was brought up in custody charged with begging from door to door. It appears that defendant called at various houses in the neighbourhood of the On oil Road Congre- gational Church, and handed in long letters setting forth the miseries of certain sufferers from scarcity of work in the Rhondda Valley. The letters bore the impression of an India-rubber- stamp bearing the name of Carline, and the address, 3, Bwlffa Cottages, Ton, Pentre. Defendant is stated to have last lodged at 22, Shady-road, Ton, Rhondda. Police-constable Jones, who proved the case* 88.id he saw defendant at the door of Mr Horace Kimble. Defendant banded in a letter, and Mre Kimble gave him twopence. Previous to that AIr Perry, who lived in a neighbouring houee, gave him sixpence. When charged, defendant said he was only doing what church and chapel people did. If anything, they did worse, as they sento young children round to beg. Defendant stated in court that he had walked from Ton, Ystrad, the previous day, calling om his way upon Lady Aberdare, who did not give him anything as she said she must be satisfied as to his credentials. He arrived at Neath without a penny in his pocket. His intention was to collect what he needed for his own pressing requirements, and send the overplus to hig distressed friends. The family of eight children was not his own, bat belonged to one of his friends. The Mayor said the defendant was the person be bad stated himself to be. He an impostor, and the public must be protected 'from such as be. He would be sent to gaol for 14 ";ya hard labour.

FATAL COLLIERY ACCIDENT AT NEATH. I w THE INQUEST. At the Glamorgan Hotel on Wednesday afternoon, Mr Howel Cuthbertson (County Coroner) held an inquiry toucning the death of David Richards, collier, Mount Pleasant, Naath, who was killed by having been run over by a journey of trams at the Eaglebush Colliery, Neath, on Tuesday afternoon. Dr. J. W. Thomas said that he was called to see deceased at about one o'clock on Tuesday afternoon. He examined the body. The pelvis was fractured the hip was exposed and the chief blood vessels of the thigh were broken. Deceased could not have lived long after receiving such injuries. H.M. Inspector of Mines (Mr Robson) having written stating that neither he nor either of hie assistants was able to attend. 't'he Coroner decided to adjourn the inquest until Friday (to-day).