The Brecon Radnor Express Carmarthen and Swansea Valley Gazette and Brynmawr District Advertiser

MOTOR TRADE AND THE WAR. I MECHANICS TO BE RELEASED. I LOCAL MEN IN CONFERENCE. I An important meeting of the Mid-Wales mem- •ers of the Motor Trades' Association was held at the Hotel Metropole, Llandrindod Wells, on Thursday, when there was a good attendance from a wide area. Prior to the meeting, the members were entertained to luncheon by Mr Tom Norton, J.P., Llandrindod Wells. Mr L. W. Francis (Pontardawe) presided over the meeting, and he was supported by Mr E. W. Garnon (divisional secretary). The chairman said they had met there first and foremost to see what could be done to organise the labour which could be spared from their garages for work on munitions. (Hear, hear.) The Minister of Munitions had invited them to place At his disposal for this work as many men, es- pecially mechanics, as they could possibly spare. It was realised that motor mechanics, who were in the work every day and all the day, were as suitable men for turning out munitions as could possibly be found. The movement had originated at a. meet-in, of the association, held recently at Birmingham, when Mr Graham Spicer, of the Minister of Munitions Department, urged the im- portance of this work, and appealed to them as earnestly as any man could. He hoped that they would decide that day as far as was possible, to spare at least a third of the men who were now working for them, and he hoped that the move- ment would be taken up equally heartily by large and small garages, and that there would be no "one holding back to try to gain advantage by the patriotism of their fellow-traders. (Applause.) If they found it possible to spare one-third of their men, their distinguished countryman would be very grateful for their effort. Successful meet- ings had already been held at Cardiff and Swan- sea, and this meeting had particularly in view the traders in Mid-Wales. He hoped that Mid-Wales would follow the splendid example set by the -earlier meetings. The National Registration Act would now soon be in operation, and he was in- clined to think that if the association did all it -could to provide the assistance which was ex- pected from it, in response to the appeal which Jiad been made voluntarily, the men who would remain would not be compulsorily taken from them. (Applause.) Bearing that in mind, be lioped every trader would spare every man he possibly could. Replying to questions, the chairman said the wages of the men would be at least equivalent to those they were now receiving. If employed from 2iorne, an allowance of 17/6 per week would be made, and travelling expenses allowed. They hati to state the number of mechanics employed before the war broke out. the number in their em- ploy at June 30th last, and the name and address of mechanics who would volunteer for munition work. The men most needed were mechanics, es- pecially men who could do lathe work. Mr Norton (Llandrindod Wells) referred to the Birmingham meeting and thA enthusiastic way the movement was taken up there. Mr Graham Spioer particularly asked for their best men. Ex- perienced men, who could do lathe work, were what was wanted. No doubt many of them had made great sacrifices already, but all would agree that further sacrifices had to be made. (Hear. tiear.) The suggestion was that they should send approximately a third of their men to assist in this work. and he hoped that every motor trader in Mid-Wales would fall in with the proposal if they possibly could. (Applause.) He had received a letter from Messrs. Jones and Son (Machynlleth), saying they were sending one of their best men, and would also send a lathe to any part of the country where it would be most useful. (Ap- plause.) He understood that men who volunteer- ed would be paid 2/6 per day in excess of the wages they were now paid, plus railway fares both ways. He agreed with the chairman that, if they responded well to this reasonable request, no com- pulsion would be put upon them. (Applause.) Mr Hutchings (Swansea) said that all the men he had, who were of service to the State, had al- ready joined the forces. His men went at the 4gtart. Mr Roberts (Llandovery) said he was prepared to let the only mechanic he had go if he wished to. (Applause.) Mr Nott (Brecon) said he had sent four out of five, of his motor hands, and was prepared to do more if he possibly could. He hoped they would all do their utmost to meet the need which had arisen, but he was of opinion that South Wales fiad done almost as much as was possible. (Ap- plause.) Mr Roberts (Swansea) moved a resolution pledging the meeting to respond to the request to the utmost of its power, and this was seconded by Mr Roberts (Llandovery), and carried unani- mously. Mr Norton (Llandrindod Wells) suggested that motor-car proprietors should put up notices in their garages asking motor-car owners to re- frain, so far as possible, from sending in cars for repairs. Overhaulings and re-adjustments should be postponed till things were more settled. (Hear. hear.)r Mr Thomas (Llandovery) seconded, and this was agreed to. Mr Nott (Brecon) suggested that some steps should be taken to bring to the notice of the pro- per authorities the names and addresses of men who had left their employ, and who were now serving as privates in the Army. If these men were more needed in the making of munitions, that fact should be brought to their notice. Two of his men had joined the Naval Flying Corps, and three others were serving as private soldiers. Only one was doing the work of a mechanic. Mr Norton thought the Government was now .dealing with this matter, and some thousands of men had been brought back. Mr Roberts (Llandovery) thought it would be a help if they could provide the names and address- ees of men who were likely to be useful, and, in this form, Mr Nott's suggestion was adopted. The chairman tendered the thanks of the meet- ing to Mr Norton for his hospitality, and this was agreed to amidst hearty cheers. Mr Norton said it had been a great pleasure to him to entertain the members of the association,and he hoped many ,Similar gatherings would be held at Llandrindod I Wells. (Applause.)

HOE CUBED — WILL CURE YOU. Robfc. Eades, of Weybridge, writa: "I bought a box yesterday, and after I had taken the owond two I felt better than I had done for over four years. The pain in my back was entirely gone. Mrs King, Runwell Road, Wickford, states :— "Duty compels me to tell all who suffer that your pills oured me after years of pain. HOLD- BO YD'S GRAVEL PILLS, a positive cure for Orarel, Pains in the Back, Dropsy, Blight's Dis- ease of the Kidneys, Gout, Sciatica. l/li, all chemists. Post free, 12 stomps.—HOLDROYD'S MEDICAL HALL, Cieckheaton.

Breconshire's L.E.A. I I J Congratulations to Chairman. I WAR WORK FOR TEACHERS. Present at the quarterly meeting of the Bre- conshire Education Committee, held at the County Hall, Brecon, on Friday, were :—Bishop BeVan (chairman), Mr W. J. Tong (vice-chair- man), Councillors Hon. R. C. Devereux, Rev. D. A. Griffith, David Powell, J. E. Williams, 'I Rev. H. J. Evans, W. M. Taylor, W. Evans, James Powell, Rev. W. Llewelyn, Joseph Price, Morgan Morgan, J. T. Boucher, Prof. Joseph Jones, Idris Davies, Rev. D. Saunders Jones, Rev. H. J. Church Jones, Levi Jones, J. Parry, J. E. Moore-Gwyn, Hugh M. Lloyd, A. Beck- i with, T. Price, J. L. Davies, John Watkins, Owen Price, David Price and Tom Morgan, and the following co-opted members—Mrs Devereux, Mrs M. F. Thomas, Mrs Morris, Miss Rogers, Rev. Dltyd Davies, Rev. Hilary Lewis, Mr Pirie Gordon, Dr. Rhys Davies and Mr A. J. C'orbett, with the secretary (Mr Lennard) and other offi- cials. Congratulations to Chairman. I Mr J. E. Moore-Gwyn said they had met un- der exceptional circumstances that day. Their chairman had been given a high honour which they all felt he most worthily deserved, namely, promotion to a Suffragan Bishopric of St. David's. (Applause.) He was very glad to see that there was a chance of the Suffragan Bishop being designated Lord Bishop of Brecon. (Hear, hear.) He felt sure he was voicing the feelings of all present when he expressed their warmest and heartiest congratulations to the chairman. (Hear, hear.) They all hoped that he would long be spared to fill the high office to which he had been called, and that they would not lose the advantage of his wisdom on their local gatherings for many years to come. He moved a resolution conveying their heartiest congratu- lations to the chairman. (Applause.) Rev. D. A. Griffith I have much pleasure in seconding the vote of congratulation to our most worthy chairman, and I endorse everything Mr Moore-Gwyn has said. (Applause.) The resolution having been unanimously car- ried amidst applause, The chairman said he was extremely grateful for their expression of kindly feeling. In tak- ing up a new work and in facing new responsi- ilities, he deeply appreciated the good feeling of those with whom, in various ways, he had been associated during the last years, and amongst the many bodies of which he had had the privilege and honour of being associated, he appreciated none more than the good-will of this Education Committee. They had had, what he would venture to call, very happy times togeth- er, and his own desire was to be allowed to con- tinue to take part, so far as circumstances al- lowed, in the deliberations of this body. IAp- plause.) Before coming to the minutes, he de- sired to thank the committee for having, in his absence, unanimously elected him to the chair. He was afraid he was a defaulter to a good many meetings last winter through circumstances fami- liar to them. Whilst at Aden, especially on a Friday and at the end of the quarter, lie used to think of them all in their happy surroundings, and he was very glad indeed to be able to return to his duties in his several capacities. He thanked them very much. The secretary also returned thanks to the members of the committee for their presenta- tion to him on the occasion of his marriage. Teachers and War Work. I A communication was read from the Board of Education, enclosing a copy of a question asked in the House of Commons with reference to the employment of teachers on war work during the holidays, and the reply of the President of the Board. The chairman said lie did not know whether there were any ways in which teachers could help. There was the National Register, and, probably, there was work in that direction. It was evident the authorities welcomed the idea that teachers, during the holidays, should take some part in national work. Prof. Jones said in some parts of the county teachers had already been asked to assist in the work of the National Register. The Chairman I hope teachers will be able to give their services. I Teaching in Welsh. The Welsh Language Society wrote respect- ing the use of the Welsh language in religious and moral instruction lessons. The secretary said in districts where Welsh was the language of the people, it was always used. As a matter of fact, the Board not only encouraged it, but. where teachers were able to speak Welsh, the Board insisted upon it. Prof. Joseph Jones said the idea of the circu- lar was good, and, if they could find some way to get head-teachers to adopt it, it would be an edu- cational gain. He moved that the circular should be sent to managers in the districts where a considerable amount of Wrelsli was spoken. This was agreed to. Thrift, &c. Several communications were read from the Board of Education respecting the employment of children, the teaching of thrift, the greater economy in the consumption of meat. &c. The chairman, perusing one of the pamphlets enclosed, said it revealed most delightful possi- bilities—two course dinners, and so forth—(laugh- ter)—so the wider these recipes were distributed the better for the children. Mr Joseph Price, referring to suggested "lec- tures" to the children respecting the greater economy in the consumption of meat, said they might as well leave it to the Farmers' Union. (Laughter.) Supplementary Teachers. In moving the report of the Brecon district committee, Mr David Powell called attention to the fact that the Board of Education refused to recognise the appointment of a supplementary tea- cher for the infants' department in Mount-street school in the place of a supplementary teacher, who had resigned. At a time, said Mr Powell, when teachers were scarce, and money equally scarce, it would have been thought that the Board would have accepted the appointment. Of course, the regulations of the Board precluded the appointment of supplementary teachers in urban area.s, and he did not think it would be of any use to pursue the matter. The report stated that the committee would consider the appointment of another teacher as soon as possible. Employment of Children. I Writh regard to the employment of children in agriculture, a special sub-committee drew up a. report on the matter. This report, signed by Mr A. Beckwith (chairman of the committee), stated that the bye-laws should be relaxed only in very exceptional cases, to enable children to replace agricultural labourers and others engaged in agri- culture. The conditions, which the Board of Education state should be satisfied before a local education authority excuses children from atten- dance. at school, are as follows :—1. The employ- ment of children of school age should be regarded as an exceptional measure permitted to meet a special emergency, and should only be allowed where the autlieritv are satisfied that no other labour is available, and in no case should child- ren be excused attendance at school if older child- I ren who are under no legal oligation to attend school are available. 2. In considering the avail- able supply of labour, the authority should satisfy themselves that all reasonable efforts have been made to secure adult labour, e.g., by application at the Labour Exchanges and especially by the offer of adequate remuneration. 3. Every case should be considered on its merits, and there should be no general relaxation of bve-laws. 4. The employment should be of a light character and suitable to the capacity of the child. 5. Per- mission. if given at all, should be given for a definitely limited period only. The committee have instructed the secretary to send a copy of the circular letter from the Board of Education to each district committee with in- structions that the conditions mentioned therein shall be satisfied in every case as well as the fol- lowing conditions, viz. -i. That the child is not under twelve years of age and not otherwise Ie-I gally exempt from attendance at school. 2. That the child is to be employed in agriculture and that his services are required in consequence of failure to secure labour as a result of the war. 3. That the work in whi.h the child is to be em-l ployed will not involve an infringement of section I 3 of the Employment of Children Act, 1903, which J provides that "a child under 14 shall not be employed to lift, carry or move anything so heavy as to be likely to cause injury to the child." 4. Any farmer wishing to employ a child under this concession must make application to the dis- trict committee in the case of each child, who must be named, and full particulars must be given of the number of employees who have enlisted together with a statement of the steps taken to secure adult labour. 5. Full particulars of each case in which agricultural employment is to be deemed a reasonable excuse for non-attendance at school must be sent to the secretary of the Edu- cation Committee by the clerk to the district com- mittee without delay. 6. A boy absent from school under this concession must not leave one employer for another without the prior sanction of the district committee. 7. The Education Com- mittee reserves the right to withdraw any permis- sion which they consider to have been improperly granted. Some discussion ensued with regard to applica- tions for exemption which had already been granted, especially by the Crickhowell district committee. In reply to questions Mr Beckwith said in nearly all the cases the children were en- titled to exemptions under the bye-laws. They were prepared to justify the exemptions and would do so when called upon. The secretary said written applications had not been received from the employers. Mr Beckwith That was because we have not had the regulation. The clerk of the district com- mittee when he received the forms would be able to furnish Mr Leonard with satisfactory replies. Mr David Powell said he was in full sympathy with the Crickhowell committee, and contended that such exemptions ought equally to apply in commercial cases. When cases came before his district committee he would have an elastic con- science. The Chairman These regulations have become 'operative because there was no time to wait for their adoption by this committee. They are opera- tive at the present moment and the question is whether this committee will receive and sanction what has been done? Mr Beckwith moved and Mr David Powell se- conded that the regulations be confirmed and this was agreed to. Mr Corbett Then the district committees can- not give exemption unless it is confirmed by this committee. Examiner's Report. I Referring to the examiner's report in respect to the county minor scholarships for intending teachers (which has already appeared in these col- umns), Mr Hugh Lloyd commented upon the poor percentage of marks obtained by several of the scholars, and asked whether it rested with the headmasters to select candidates. The chairman said it must be left to the dis- cretion of head teachers. It was probable that some candidates were sent merely for "a trial trip"—(laughter)—without the prospect of dis- tinguishing themselves. Professor Joseph Jones said he had a good deal of sympathy with what Mr Lloyd had said, and had been wondering whether the head teachers of county schools would have the opportunity of see- ing the report. The secretary said a copy of the report would be sent them. Building Economy. I The chairman, commenting on the report of the Buildings Committee, said they were doing as lit- tle as they possibly could at the present moment in the direction of building. Mr Hugh Lloyd, commenting on the appoint- ment of an attendance officer for Penderyn, said lie thought a woman could do the work. They were preaching economy and here was a case in point where they might practise it. The Chairman Do you know Ystradfellte, Mr Lloyd. (Laughter.) Mr Joseph Price A woman would never find her way to that school. (Loud laughter.) Teachers and their Salaries. The Staffing and Salaries Committee in their re- port referred to a communication from the County Teachers' Association relative to the application of the Certificated Assistant Teachers for a revision of their scale, stating that at a meeting of the class teachers held on Saturday, 6th June, it was unanimously agreed that the time had come when their case might reasonably be re-opened and ask- ing the committee to further consider their applica- tion. Having regard to the circumstances the committee regretted the present request and Mr Corbett undertook to convey this expression of the committee's opinion to the teachers. Coun- cillor W. M. Taylor signified his intention, to give notice of motion to consider the matter at the next meeting. The special sub-committee appointed by the Staffing and Salaries Sub-Committees to consider the terms of appointment of temporary teachers recommended the following scale of payments Supplementary, females, 15s.; uncertificated, 30/- males, 25/- females; certificated, £ 2 males, 35/- females; heads, X2 males, X2 females. No pay- ments shall be made for holidays and no travelling expenses shall be allowed,. I Agriculture Instruction. I Mr Owen Price, moving the report of the agri- cultural education sub-committee (a report of which has appeared in our columns) said a good deal had been done in the county in the way of experiments, and he hoped this would have good effect and that the county would be benefited by the adoption of these methods. They had receiv- ed a very good grant from the Board of Education so that the expense would not be a very serious cne to the county. (Hear, hear.)

The Gallant 24th. I TRADITIONS MAINTAINED. I DISTINCTIONS IN THE WAR. I Before the present war more Victoria Crosses were held by the 24th Regiment, South Wales Borderers, than any other infantry regiment in the British Army. Of those gallant men there is only one surviving, namely, Private John Williams, who, notwithstanding his advanced age, has returned to his old regiment, and is at present stationed at the Depot, Brecon. It was at Rorke's Drift, on that memorable 22nd of January, 1879, that Private Williams displayed his soldierly qualities, and, with other men, res- cued wounded comrades from the hospital, which was on fire, during the attack of the Zulus, who largely outnumbered the British. The gallant 24th has added to its laurels dur- ing the present war. Besides distinctions gain- ed by the offijcers of the 24th, the following non- commissioned officers and men have received the Distinguished Conduct Medal :— Sergt. G. S. Duffy, who won the award at the battle of the Aisne, 21st and 26th September, for gallantry in capturing single-handed a German officer and two men (who were sniping). Lce-Cpl. R. H. Coxhead (now lance-sergeant), Pte. A. Hullah, and Driver A. W. Foster. Dur- ing the attack on 21st October, at Llangemarck, they brought up supports and ammunition under heavy fire. All three showed great bravery. Pte. H. C. Gunter.—For gallant conduct in leaving his trench and bringing up reinforce- ments and ammunition under heavy fire, twice. Pte. R. Black.—On 31st October and 2nd November, for gallantry in assisting to collect men and bringing them to the trenches under heavy fire, and gallantry in extricating men who were buried by shell. Pte. M. Pugh.On the 31st October he went alone into a house where a number of the enemy were firing at his company and cleared them out, only three Germans escaping. Sergt. W. Wilcox.—On the 25th January, at Givenchy, for conspicuous gallantry. After his machine gun was overturned and himself buried by shell fire he succeeded in remounting his gun unaided, until the parapet was again demolish- ed. All his section were killed or wounded. Cpl. E. J. Williams.On the 25th January be handled his platoon with great coolness after his officer and sergeant had been wounded, and, by skilful direction of fire, kept the enemy away from the line. Others who have received the D.C.M. are Sgt. S. D. Dean and Pte. T. Millward (at the Dardanelles); Lee.-Cpl. C. J. Foley (at Tsing- tau); Cpl. W. Francis (at Givenchy); Pte. A. Green, Pte. G. C. Snow, Cpl. J. J. Ward and Pte. J. West (at Tsingtau); Sgt. T. Whitehouse (at Givenchy); Cpl. J. Edwards, Lee.-Cpl. R. Lewis. Sgt. G. P. O'Toole, and Pte. W. Adams (at Festubert).

Radnorshire School Attendance. -1 "WET WEATHER AND SHEARING." BOY LABOUR ON FARMS. Dr. Harding occupied the chair at the meeting of the Radnorshire School Attendance and Medi- cal Service sub-committee. The percentage of average attendance during the last three months was returned as follows :—New Radnor and Painscastle district April, 85; May, 83; and June, 87; against 88, 87.2, and 88.6 last year. Llandrindod Wells and Rhayader district April, 82.3; May, 83; June, 82.2; against, 87.6, 86.6, and 84.3 in 1914. Knighton and Presteign dis- trict April, 87.2; May, 87.3; June, 89.3; against 91.7, 89.7, and 87.4 last year. Some interesting items were contained in the officers' reports. Am- ong the causes stated for the low attendance in one of the districts were, "wet weather and shearing." Notwithstanding the fact that one person had been summoned on four occasions for not sending his grandchild to school regularly, the child did not now attend. In another case the father said he would rather pay the fine than send his lad to school, while one boy who per- sisted in playing truant was reported as being "not under proper control." Each of the three officers stated that there were some children, who had been allowed to leave the school under age to help in farm work, not re- ceiving the sum which the committee decided that they should receive from their employers, viz., 4/- per week, plus food, etc. In some cases par- ents expressed their satisfaction with the sum (though under this amount) paid, and some em- ployers had stated that the boys were paid quite as much as they were worth. One officer report- ed that parents said that, if they pressed for higher wages, the boys would be pressed for more work, and they considered it better to take what they termed "fair wages" and have a better place. Employers had pointed out that the in- creased cost of living fell on them, as they pro- cided board and lodging. The ohairman said that the employment of boys at harvest time was an important matter, and one in which the chairman of the Education Committee (Aid. C. C. Rogers) was deeply in- terested. He had asked him to do what he could in regard to this question, and he drafted a ser- ies of suggestions for dealing with it. Inasmuch as the teachers were holding a meeting at the time, 'he asked them to consider the position, and, in the end, they agreed that it was much better to approach the question in this way, and to ar- range for the boys to go out ot help the farmers. Since then replies had been received from the Board to a letter which he had caused to be writ- ten, suggesting that the local education authori- ties should arrange for the annual holidays to co- incide with the period of harvest, and pointing out that such authorities should take the respon- sibility of closing the schools, &c. There seem- ed to be a great demand for boy-labour at the present time. Ald. Rogers thought the replies were excellent, because the Board had put the question in a nut- shell. It seemed to him that it might be advan- tageous to have a part of the holidays during the hay harvest and a part during cereal time. There was only one difficulty to contend with in doing this-the teachers would prefer having the holi- days altogether—but then they had to consider whether they should put the convenience of the teachers before that of the country, and he did not hesitate in saying that the teachers would make the sacrifice. Dr. Harding did not think they could expect the boys to come back after the schools had broken up until the whole period of holidays had been completed. He thought they had better make up their minds to take all risks with the Board of Education, and advise school managers to close the school for the present time and to state that that committee would tell them when to open the schools again. If it were the wish of that committee that they should be closed imme- diately, he thought the urgency committee might meet and give effect to their decision that day. The committee agreed, and it was understood that, with the consent of the urgency committee, a letter was to be sent to all school managers advising them to close the schools immediately, in view of the shortage of labour and the conse- quent difficulty experienced in getting in the har- vest, and so as to permit of the greatest amount of assistance being received from the scholars. Replying to Mr D. Davies, Dr. Harding said the question of wages did not apply to these scholars the same as it did to those whom the committee had allowed to leave school under age. Mr Rogers agreed. Answering Rev. Kewley as to the number of attendance which had to be made to obtain grants, Dr. Harding said ,that the committee would take all responsibility as to that. With respect to the boys reported by the offi- cers as not receiving 4/- per week, plus food, &c., the chairman suggested that they instruct their officers to inform the employers that the amount was unsatisfactory, and to report further. Mr B. P. Lewis remarked that there was a dif- ferent value in boys, and the doctor replied that there was also a difference in the food which were given them to eat, but, unfortunately, the two things generally went together-poor pay and poor food. Mr C. Vaughan considered that 4/- per week, with food, was rather high, and he suggested that the minimum be 3/ The chairman saId the point had already been decided by the com- mittee and sanctioned by the urgency committee. Mr T. Davies said an employer would not like to pay 4/- a week to a boy who was not worth it, and Mrs Venables Llewelyn observed that the man need not employ him. A letter from the correspondent to the Nant- mel school managers (Rev. Wolfe) called atten- tion to a bad case of irregular attendance, and said this was not fair to the teachers. As far as they were aware, there was no shortage of lab- our in the district. The case, however, had been dealt with in one of the officer's reports, and it was decided that, if the parent wished the boy to leave school, he should send in a formal application. Finance. I Mr Jas. Hamer presided over the finance sub- committee, who considered that it was inadvis- ale to go into the question of increasing the price of coal supplied under contract, and as applied for by some of the contractors, because such con- tracts were entered into after the commencement of the war. A letter from the Central Welsh Board asked to be furnished with information a.s to the amount of grants paid last year by the Board of Education in respect of Llandrindod Wells and Presteign County Schools. The clerk said this was a formal letter which they received each year.' The information was required so that the Board could arrive at their

I Balance-Sheet Signatures. I YSTALYFERA AGENT'S SUMMONS. Alderman Sir vJohn Bell, at the London Guild Hall, on Wednesday, gave his decision in the case of the Cambrian Mercantile Syndicate, Ltd., of Moorgate street, and Swansea, who were sum- moned, together with the secretary, Mr John Alexander Russell, under the .Companies Consoli- dation Act, by their colliery agent, Mr Edmund James Smith, of Ystalyfera, for issuing to him a copy of the balance sheet for 1914 that did not bear the signature of the directors and secretary, contrary to law. Mr R. Fortune appeared for the complainant, and Mr A. Lawton represented the company. Sir John said the summons against the com- pany was taken out, under the first part of sub- section 113 of the Act, for issuing a copy of the balance-sheet which had not been signed by the secretary. He found that there was a duly- signed balance-sheet in existence, but, by an over- sight, a copy of the signatures of the directors was not applied to the copy of the balance-sbeet issued to the prosecutor. He also found that Mr Russell (secretary) was not aware of the omis- sion. The sub-section did not require that the copy should bear the signatures, and he there. fore dismissed the summons. Mr Lawton asked for costs. Sir John I cannot do that. I think there was some reason for this summons, and I also think that Mr Russell was quite justified in refusing to show the balance-sheet to a third party, but I cannot see whv it could not have been shown to Mr Smith. Mr Lawton said the Syndicate would now sup- ply Mr Smith with the copies he required, on the payment of the usual charges.

THE GREAT SKIN CURE. B UDDEN'S S.R. SKIN OINTMENT will cure — Itching after one application, destroys every form of Eozema; heals old Wounds and Sores acts like a charm on Bad Legs; is infallible for Piles; Prevents Cuts from Festering will cure Ringworm in a few days; removes the most obsti- nate Eruptions and Scurvy. Boxes 7ld and 1/lj. —Agents for Brecon, Mr Stanton and Mr Morris, High Street, Chemists; Builth Wells, W. Price & Co., T. A. Coltman; Llandovery, J. Nicholas, Chemist; Hay, J. L. Davies and Son; Talgarth, J. Parry, Chemist; Crickhowell, Mr Kirkland, Chem- ist; Brynmawr, Mr A. M. Jones, Chemist; Knigh- ton, Mr Perkins, Chemist; Pontardulais, Mr Jones, Chemist. b987

Mistake in Will. I LORD MERTHYR'S ESTATE. I A mistake in certain settlement documents un- der the estate of the late Lord Merthyr came be- fore Mr Justice Joyce, in the Chancery Division, on Friday. Plaintiff was the Right Hon. Herbert Clarke Lewis, Baron Merthyr, of Senghenydd, described as of Hean Castle, Pembrokeshire, who asked for a declaration that certain settlements of June 11th, 1896, ought to be reformed or rectified in certain clauses. Defendants- were the Hon. Trevor Gwyn Elliott Lewis, Colonol William Forrest, St. Fag- ans, and the Hon. William Brereton Couchman Lewis, and the Hon. Anne Elizabeth Mary Llew- ellyn Lewis, both infants, of Hean Castle. The question governed land, minerals and mine royal- ties at Vaynor (Brecon), Raglan, Llanrathosen, Carmarthen, Ystradgyfodwg, Penderyn, Llan- gattock-justa-Usk, Llantwit Fardre, Llanehetty, and Patricia (Brecon). Defendants did not dis- pute the point for decision. Mr Hughes, K.C., who appeared with Mr Wood for the plaintiff, explained that the late Lord Merthyr was better known as Sir William Lewis. He was created baronet in 1895, and thought it desirable that he should make certain provision for putting his eldest son in a position to support the honour of the baronetcy. r Lord Merthyr Gives Evidence. In 1896, accordingly, certain settlements were effected. There were seven schedules to this set- tlement. The arrangements were all made by Sir Wm. Lewis, with the assistance of a solicitor, Mr David Rees Lewis. They asked for a declara- tion in favour of the plaintiff, and Mr Trevor Lewis agreed. He was the person first interested in deciding it. He had a life interest opposed to that of the plaintiff, and if the settlement stood he would take something, whereas if it were altered he would not take. As the settlement Was first drafted, it was con- templated that certain properties should be set- tled on the eldest son, but the late Lord Merthyr decided to make certain alterations, to take out certain lands to settle on the younger son, and also to bring in land not mentioned in the draft. By this certain clauses were altered, but others were not altered to correspond, and the mistake was only recently discovered at Somerset House. The present Lord Merthyr and the Hon. Trevor Lewis were prepared to say that the intention of their father was that all the property, with thè- exception of two farms settled on the Hon. Trevor Lewis, should be settled on the eldest son. Lord Merthyr gave evidence and said that at the time of settlement he was told the whole pro- perty was worth about Cloo,ooo. The Hon. Trevor Lewis and William Lewis Harris having given evidence, his Lordship remarked that the matter was clear, and it was evident a mistake had been made. He made the declaration asked for.

I Summer Tiredness. I Who has not felt languor and depression dur- ing the summer months? How irksome duties about the house, in the factory, or workshop be- come when that is your condition. Just con- sider, in such cases, whether your organs of digestion (the stomach, liver and bowels) are not at fault. Remember,they are sometimes very much affected by changes in the weather, and, in the hot days, are apt, to get lazy and sluggish. Then it is that impurities from ibadly digested food en- ter the blood and produce the tiredness you com- plain of. To be free from such prostrations of mind and body, take Mother Seigel's Syrup. It speedily regulates the stomach, invigorates the liver, and stimulates the bowels to natural ac- tivity. Your food is then properly digested— your blood kept rich and pure by the nourish- ment it receives. With health renewed and energy restored, lassitude, even on the most op- pressive days, becomes for you a. thing of the past.

The Labour Exchanges. I IMPROVED FACILITIES AT BRECON. I Improved Labour Exchange facilities are now afforded by Mr W. J. Knight, Viaduct House, Struet, Brecon, the local agent for Laour Ex- changes and Unemployment Insurance. A regis- ter will be kept at the local agency of all kinds of work-people seeking employment, each appli- cant being specially registered according to his or her occupation. It is hoped that employers of labour will inform the local agent by telephone (which will be shortly installed), postcard, letter, or personal call, of all vacancies which they de- sire to fill. In the selection of applicants for vacancies, re- gard is paid only to their industrial efficiency. Should there be no suitable applicants on the local agent's register, the vacancy will at once be communicated to the Labour Exchange to which the agency is attached, and, if necessary, circulated to every Labour Exchange in the Unit- ed Kingdom. The experience already gained from the work- ing of the Labour Exchange system goes far to show that the new facilities now offered in this district will, if full advantage is taken of them, prove of the greatest service both to employers and workpeople.

Eppynt Sheperds. I WORTHIES OF THE MOUNTAINS. I A FAMOUS "POUND." I A correspondent writes :—Mr Wm. Jones, Ffynnon Ta By van, commonly called Will Fyn- non, is a descendant of the ready witted and talented "Twm-shon-Catti," and resembles him very much, from what I can gather. He is a most intelligent man, and anyone can see by him that he is above the average of men. His father was a wonderful old type, and died over half-a-century ago, his son, William, taking up the position. He is a shepherd and is employed by Mr J. T. Evans, of Abernant, Llanwrtyd Wells, who is a J.P. for the county of Brecon and one of the leading gentlemen of the neigh- bourhood. Mr Evans is a nephew of the late and well respected Mr Thomas, of Llandilo, Carmarthenshire, who died many years ago, much to the sorrow of the inhabitants. Next comes Mr Wm. Probert, another shep- herd, best known as "Billy Boy," who lives at Tavern-y-Mynydd. This hotel is an old place on the side of the highway, leading from Llan- dovery to a place called Cafan Twm Bach. Cen- turies ago, this was the way they used to travel the black cattle from Pembrokeshire, Cardigan- shire, Carmarthenshire and other counties, be- fore railways were in vogue. Mr Probert is a nephew of the late Mr Evan Williams, of Nant- y-brain, Abergwessin, who was best known as "Evan Coadsort." The said Probert is a very comical man, well-known through the district as such. He is a shepherd employed by Mr Jones, Llwyn Fynwent, a well-known gentleman throughout the neighbourhood. Next comes Rhys Price, of Esger commonly called "Rhys Blaencwm." He hailed from Blaen- cwm, Abergwessin about 26 years ago, and "fixed his tent on Eppynt mountains; he is a shepherd for Mr Thomas Davies. of Glancamddwr, a gentleman who is very much thought of and re- spected in the district for his good deeds. Then there is John Edwards, shep- herd of no small type living at a place called Cnwch. He is employed by Messrs. Wliliams, Brothers, Ty Newydd, who are of high standing in the neighbourhood and are very gen- erous men. I may say this shepherd is a very fast and fleet runner. Years ago be could do the 100 yards in even time. Such men are "few and far between" these days. Then we have John Jones, Cwmcar, who hail- ed from Cwm Twy, and is the son of Mr David Jones, of Traws Nant. He is a very powerful man standing over six feet high and of proportionate build, and is employed by the following gentle- men, viz.,Messrs. Rhys Jones, Glangwessin, Wm. Williams, Penrhiwgoch farm and Messrs. Jones Brothers, Dolgaer farm, Llangammarch. All these gentlemen are typical farmers and take great pride in their stock. Thomas Evans, commonly called "Spurgeon bach," another shepherd, lives at an hotel, called Drover's Arms on the side of the road leading from Llangammarch to Brecon, a place where strayed sheep and cattle are pounded and shown twice a year. People come from all parts of tfte country to claim their stock and after the busi- ness is over, they adjourn to the hotel to celebrate the day.

I Belgian Relief Committee. I The Hon. treasurer begs to acknowledge the re- I ceipt of the following sums—with many thanks Mrs J. J. Watkins, Greenhill, Crick- howell (monthly contribution) 1 0 0 Mrs Ruther, Llanbedr, 2nd contri- bution 0 10 0 BOX COLLECTIONS- Usk Paper Mills 0 10 6 Mrs Williams, Llangenny 0 7 9J Postmistress, Llanbedr 0 2 0 Miss Hooper, Llanbedr 0 9 71 (For June) EARMARKED FOR BRECON HOSTEL- Home and Colonial Staff (3rd contribu- tion 0 7 6 MARKET BOX COLLECTIONS- May 7th, 3/7 0 3 7 June 4th, 1/9; 11th, 10d.; 18th, 1/7; 25th, 2/5; July 2nd, 2/4 0 8 11 Contributions from Belgian Refugees 1 19 6 Brynmawr Collections 15 0 0 Central London Committee 1 10 0 Total to date C921 3 2 b771

I "Brecon and Merthyr." I PASSENGER TRAINS DELAYED. An accident occurred at Fochriw on Friday. A goods train was nearing the station when the coupling between the guard's van and a passenger coach broke, and the former was thrown across the six-foot way. Before the train was brought to a standstill the coach (which contained no pas- sengers) also left the metals, and tore up the per- manent way as it was pulled along. The line between Deri and Fochriw being a single one, the Newport to Brecon train, which was full of passengers, could not proceed. With- in an hour the 4 o'clock train steamed into the Fochriw Station bound for Newport. This train also was held up. Eventually, the officials decided to change trains, so the passengers from the up train walk ed to the station to take their places in the down train, and the down train passengers walked to a spot below the smash to join the up train. The colliers and others helped to transfer the luggage from one train to the other. A break-down gang was soon on the scene, and, by 6 o'clock, the van and coach had been removed from the permanent way. Fortunately, the passenger coach did not be- come detached during its off-rail run, or it would have crashed down the bank.

Bowls at the Spa. THE BUFTON CUP. The first of four matches for the cup, given by Mr J. 0. Bufton, C.C., between the Rock Park Club and the Recreation Ground Club, was played on the Recreation Ground Green, Llan- drindod Wells, last Wednesday evening. A good number of people watched play till rain came on near the end. The Rock Park Club, who won the cup last year, again made a good start, win- ning on their opponents' green by 23 shots. Scores Rock Park. T. L. James, C. H. Williams, T. E. James, W. Gittoes (skip) 25 0. E. Hughes, J. H. Jones, Wm. Hughes, J. James (skip) 12 G. W. Gibson, M. Davies, S. L. Edwards, C. C. Hughes (skip) 23 D. Evans, D. Jones, Supt. R. Jones, A. Mills (skip) 22 Total. 82 Recreation Ground. H. E. Morris, W. Skrvme, G. Gould, F. Mills (skip) 14 Ex-Sergt. Evans, F. Phillips, R. Price, J. Sherbourne (skip) 15 A. Moulton, T. J. Vaughan, E. Griffiths, W. J. Jones (skip) 16 J. Bound, J. Phillips, S. Thomas, W. Thomas (skip) 14 Total. 59

Rev. W. E. T. Morgan (vicar of Llanigon), whose appointment as rural dean of Hay has al- ready been announced, was the eldest son of the late Rev. Morgan Rice Morgan, D.D., for 38 years vicar of Llansamlet, and his mother was a sister of the late Mr Thomas (of Lan), known as the champion of open spaces in Swansea. The new rural dean was educated at Llandovery Col- lege. and. afterwards, became a scholar of Lam- peter College, where he took his B.A. degree in 1870.

b.   T ? ?t /?  —— -?? ??S?  Just right 'l. '?- .ø f r S m D t .t\ '#ø for Summer Dayso  .I." ? ??? ? summer weather, when you want, ?!? t, "s. h f C..3 h. 1. h X\ '?. ?' ? ? ?? way of food, somethinly light V'\ V'V \? ? and cooling, yet with sufficient no urishri?ent in '?' ? take blancmange made with milk and Brown & \Ofifl 'Kv'x pf Poison's Corn Flour fTMOCRZ? '< '?'.? It is easy to make, and "sets" beautifully if j ",I, "@ fill h d. h y°u follow the directions in the j?rS? I. '?'? recipe with every packet. ..<  '? ? /f J O t.?   Corn F lour blancmange is the ???T?J B??t \W\\ W> Corn Flour blancmange is the ideal complement to stewed <aL ?nrns''?B?) ??? ??N '/•VA ? summer fruits you may serve it ?SSE?B??S? ?BL?' *'? ? w? a different fruit every day,   ??jS—  't ? and, like bread, you will never grow tired of it. mt  hB?   t  wr??j ??? 0 tJ??t??? iLNtBt.jR ■m' *—j Brown & Poison     Corn Flour. C<??<?? -o<??, /?<7? ? '-<. '?'? ? Brown &• Poison | Nq ADVANCE IN pRICt fr* Wr*e for z7 No ADVANCE IN PRIC& "x -<? 116 Pki. 64 16 3d. to day. ??. ??. '1Øv. ?.?m-?? \\? "N VM, rh,

Talybont Oddfellows. Half-Yearly Meeting. PROPOSED AMALGAMATION OF LODGES- As briefly reported in our previous issue, Taly- bont District of Oddfellows, Manchester Unity, held its half-yearly meeting at New Inn, Llan- hamlach, headquarters of Peterstone Lodge, on the 14th inst., when Mr Edwin Lewis, Provisional grand Master, occupied the chair. Lodges repre- sented were Talybont, Peterstone, Talgarth and Glasbury. Other district officers present were I Deputy Grand Benjamin James, P.P.G.M., Thos. Morgan (district treasurer), P.P.G.M., and John Pritchard (district secretary). Delegates in attend- ance were :—Glanenig Lodge, Talgarth, P.P.G.M. J. P. Games, P.P.G.M., Fred Morgan and A. G. W. F. Franklin; Peterstone Lodge, P.P.G.M., R. Pritchard and N.G., D. C. Price; Foundation of Friendship Lodge, Glasbury, Bro. J. Stanley, Bro- T. Turner and Bro. W. Turner; and Bychlyd Lodge, Talybont, P.P.G.M., W. Williams, P.P.G.M., Price Thomas, and N.G., H. J. King. The Grand Master, before proceeding with the business, read the ritual for brethren serving their ? country. I The financial statement disclosed a satisfactory balance to the credit of each lodge. The district calls on the deaths of members were :—Talybont, £ 35; Peterstone, £ 30; and Talgarth, XIO. As requested by the directors of Manchester Unity that Brecon Lodge be amalgamated to Taly- bont district, a Talgarth delegate moved that this be carried out, which was seconded by a Glasbury delegate and agreed to. Bro. John Pritchard (cor- responding secretary) was directed to make ar- rangements for a meeting at Talgarth in Septem- ber, when two delegates from each lodge were to attend. P.P.G.M., Price Thomas gave an interesting ac- count of the Cardiff Conference of the South Wales Lodges, numbering 343 districts and representing 3,000 lodges. Pro. John Pritchard submitted a report of the A.M.C., at Manchester, to which he was a dele- gate for that district. He stated that the confer' ence was during Whitsun week, and was attended by 1,000 delegates, representing one-and-a-ha lf million members. The meetings commenced at 9 o'clock each day and lasted until 5 p.m. A large number of members had enlisted and, from one district, 1,200 had joined, very few of them be- ing alive now. Subscriptions of members in the Army were being paid by members of their lodges remaining at home. The expense to Glanenig Lodge, Talgarth, in this respect, would be ap- proximately £ 40 this year. Bro. Pritchard's report, which was a lengthy one, was instructive and appreciated by those pres- ent. Thanks were accorded Bros. Thomas and P?' Pritchard for their reports, and they suitably 8lc- nowledged. Subsequently, officers and delegates were enter- tained to tea by members of Peterstone Lodge, Bro. Davies, host of New Inn, being caterer. The Grand Master moved a vote of thanks to Peterstone Lodge for their hospitality, which was heartily carried. P.P.G.M., R. Pritchard, lodge secretary, In a few well chosen words, responded. The singing of the National Anthem terminated the proceedings.

Local Elections. TEXT OF POSTPONEMENT BILL. The text of the Bill for the postponement of local elections and registration was issued on Thursday. It provides that, where the next statutory elec- tions of county and borough councillors, district councillors, guardians, and parish councilloro, would fall before 1st July next year, the election3 should be postponed for a year. Casual vacancies are to be filled by choice of the council or board when the vacancy occurs. Provision is also made for the existing regis- ters of electors to remain in force until Parlia- ment provides for special registers, and, as from the end of this month, the provisions of the re- gistration of electors Acts are suspended, any steps which have been taken for the preparations of the new registers, being annulled. The Bill is also applicable both to Scotland and Ireland.

Two Llanwrtyd boys have recently received promotion—Mr J. Williams, Esgairmoel (2nd Glamorganshire Yeomanry), to corporal-signaller, and Mr A. Morgan (Dolgoy), to lance-corporal.

I Radnorshire School Attendance—Con- tinued. I charges, which were based on the amount of re- venue received by the authority in respect, of these two schools. Mr Rogers and the C.W.B. Aid. C. C. Rogers said he had been in corres- pondence with Breconshire, and it seemed to him that they had been very badly treated by the C.W.B. Neither of the two counties had a re- presentative on the executive committee, and, if anything were said at the Board meetings that they did not like, the speaker was howled down. He had heard it said that they had no right to criticise the action of the executive, and he was not, allowed to speak on economy. The last time, instead of calling him to a point of order, the chairman made a series of speeches. He con- sidered that they were a most ineffective body. He went on to point out that Radnorshire, with Breconshire and Glamorganshire, were called up- on to pay more to the C.W.B. than were some of the other counties, and he explained that this was due to the grants in aid being paid to the edu- cation authorities in these three counties, where- as, in the others, they were paid direct to the school governors, and were, therefore, not calcu- lated in the authority's income on which they had to pay a certain percentage to the Board. It was his contention that they should apply to the Government to send down an official, so that they. in conjunction with Breconshire, could put their case before him. He contended that pay- ments to the C.W.B. should be made on a uni- form basis, and that Radnorshire should not pay a percentage on grants received, while other counties did not do this. He would propose that their clerk write the Breconshire Authority, stating that he would be willing to ilay the facts, as far as they related to Radnorshire, before a Government official, if they could get hold of one. It was too much to expect them to go all the way up to London to explain matters. This was agreed to.