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

RATE REDUCED. I BRECON DISTRICT COUNCIL'S ECONOMY. MEMBER'S HINT TO COUNTY COUNCIL. At the annual meeting of the Brecon Rural District Council, on Thursday, Mr Owen Price was unanimously re-elected chairman, and, in- responding, referred to the fact that the rate was 2ld" less than that made in the corresponding period last year. For over eighteen months, he said, they had lost the presence of their clerk (Mr M. F. Thomas), which was a, little awkward, be- cause he was so well up in the work of the Council and Board of Guardians. They were glad, how- ever, that Mr Hill was with them, and he must say that he had worked very hard during that time. He had had double, duties to perform, but he had done them to the satisfaction of the mem- ber of the Board and the Council. (Hear, hear.) Mr Jenkin Williams was unanimously re-elected vice-chairman. On the Te-election of the Sanitary Committee (of which Mr A. A. Mitchell is chairman), the chairman said this committee had done excellent work, the result of which was seen by the im- proved sanitary matters in the district. Less Roadmen. j Mr John Jones asked if any roadmen had been I dispensed with by the surveyors? Mr Williams (surveyor) said notices were be- I ing given to 12 men that day to terminate on the following Saturday in his district. Four men had left, and he was retaining 16. Mr Joseph (surveyor) said he had retained 8 and I dispensed with 12. The Rate—Highway Estimates Less. I The clerk submitted the proposed call for the I half-year ending September. There was a net de- I crease in estimated expenditure of R764, which was mainly due to the surveyor's estimates. There I was also X40 decrease under the heading of "im- provements." The "call" worked out at 3ld in .the £ on the estimated expenditure. By having a "rest" of 3d in the £1, the same as last year, and deducting balances in hand (estimated) at £ 1231, the call amounted to 3d in the £ as com- pared with 5ld for the corresponding period last year-& reduction of 2Jd. (Hear, hear.) The chairman moved the adoption of the esti- mate and "call," and expressed satisfaction at the reduction in the rate. During the present year the number of roadmen would be reduced to nearly half to what they were before, and he only hoped the roads would be retained in fairly good order. They could not expect them to 'be kept up so well, but in the present emergency it was a wise plan for the council to reduce the amount of labour. As they would observe from the details of the estimate, there had not been an increase in anything except the tradesmen's bills. The council during the past year had worked very har- moniously, and he only hoped this would con- tinue. A Hint for the County Council. I Rev. T. Griffiths, in seconding, said great praise was due to the Finance Committee for the in- tigent interest they had taken in the reduction of-the rates. If it had not been for that, they would not have been able to have arrived at such a reduction of £764. The committee could not have carried out this reduction without the co- operation of the two surveyors. They met the committee very handsomely, and the rates were reduced accordingly. There was only one draw- back. He wished the chairman would use his powerful influence with the County Council to get that august body to reduce the rates in the same manner as this council had done. (Laughter and bear, hear.) They lived in times when economy was, and ought to be, practised not only in this but other councils, and he was proud this council had set an example for other councils in the neighbourhood to follow. Mr J. J. Ricketts Let us go back a little to the old times when men were not kept on the road except in the autumn. The County Council could do without men on the road in the summer time. The Chairman Motor-cars would have to stop. Mr Ricketts Well, let them stop. (Laughter.) Mr John Jonas said he had been asked by the Parish Council of Llanfihangel-Nantbran to call attention to the bad state of the footbridge lead- ing to a farm in the parish.—The surveyor was in- structed to bring up an estimate for its repair to the next meeting.

Among Rhayader's time-expired men of the 1st Herefordshire Regiment, who have returned, are Mr Reggie Lewis (Lion Hotel) and Mr Archie Price. Both warriors took part in the operations -at Suvla Bay, and were invalided in Egypt.

B Commands THE LARGEST SALE in B I Great Britain and Ireland. B I • ■ Has proved itself to be equal M to others at double the price. 0| It has secui-ecl THE HIGHEST AWARDS IN EUROPE. One Montl-B Free Trial. JMBT^ It is GUARANTEED lor 10 years. and to tkim as clean, tnrn easier, 1. JEWStm simpler tj manage than many "f t:? higher-priced machines, and superior m JWJhS.Wag^flJH fl every respect to the lower-priced 'me".   ???'?=— Sales over 120,000 in 4 Yca, /? ??" II 15 15 II MzN to f't..p?ci'.y'  < 3 !t!K3 p?? S! M 27 ?- S 5 !0 ? II 50?-.S!0 5 11 BaH R. J. FUUWOMM BLA? I JMSMH31-35- 3evendanSt„Lcn'Jj'. Local Agents J. E. Nott & Co., Brecon. ,.I

I REV. D. J. ROBERTS ACCEPTS IMPORTANT BRISTOL PASTORATE. I HIS BUILTH ASSOCIATION. Rev. D. J. Roberts, pastor of Abersychan Congregational Church and son. of Mr John Roberts, Maesygraig, Builth Wells, has accepted the important pa-storate of Castle Green Congre- gational Church, Easton, Bristol. His ministry at Abersychan has had a wide influence and his impending departure is naturally a source of general regret. Mr Roberts, who has been so active in many phases of religious and social life, begins his ministry at Bristol early in June. Mr Roberts commenced his ministry in Aber- sychan in June, 1908, having been previously at Dowlais. He is naturally a most energetic and busy man, which the present state of the Church proves, and he also interested himself largely with the different movements connected with the Welsh Churches, where his splendid organising abilities have been much in demand. He is a past president of the C.E. Union of Wales, and has been its hon. general secretary for over five years. The Eastern Valleys (Monmouthshire) Free Church Council has also benefited by his valuable help. He was, for some years the general secretary, and is now one of the vice-pre- sidents of the Eastern Division of South Wales and Monmouth Federation of Free Churches, be- sides filling numerous other honorary positions, including the secretaryship of the Young People's Department of the whole county. At the County Union annual assembly in Newport last week, a unanimous and enthusiastic vote of thanks and appreciation was passed, and profound regret ex- pressed at the impending departure of 'Mr Roberts to Bristol. The Abersychan Church, during Mr Roberts's eight years' ministry, has not only increased in membership, but has made itself felt in the district in social service and beneficent ministrations. A new mission was erected half- a-mile from the church, and opened in February. 1914. at the cost of about £1,000, and now only £ 300 remains to be raised. There is a school of over 150 scholars at the mission already, and the work and school in the home Church have not suffered, but are as vigorous as ever. A journal, circulating in Abersychan district, says :—"The Easter Convention is drawing near enough now for us to urge all those delegates ap- pointed to make every effort to secure fine gather- ings and spiritual success. One note, however, will unfortunately have to be struck at this Con- vention. It is a note of regret, deep, sincere and full of feeling. The Welsh National Secretary, the Rev. D. J. Roberts, is leaving Wales for Bris- tol soon after Easter. He has accepted a call to a church in Bristol, and his removal means a great gain to that city, and an equally great loss to Wales. He is a man of indomitable energy and mental grasp, a genuine good friend, a splendid expositor and preacher, and. so far as C.E. is concerned, a fine worker for the cause. We are faced with the necessity, as well as the difficulty, of finding a successor—one who will think 'a.nd work for the national cause of Endeavour. We hope and pray that the right man may be found. What we really need is a Field Secretary for Wales who will be able to 'expound our principles and our work in the Welsh tongue. There is a wide scope for operations on these lines. Mr Roberts did as much as his busy life permitted in this way. He will be greatly missed, and his departure is sure to be deeply deplored. At the same time, we will wish him every possible suc- cess in his new sphere."

What is Life? I "Life is not to live," says a great Latin writer, "but to be well." What a difference! It isn't life when you drag on from day to day, feeling "fit for nothing," "played out," and "broken down" in health; when you can't eat, can't sleep, can't work, and all because your stomach and liver are out of order, and your food is not being digested, and therefore is not nourishing you pro- perly. No That isn't life I It's just a wretched existence I But, of course, you want to be well! Then try what Mother Seigel's Syrup can do for you It has brought tens of thousands of people out of ill- health and misery. It has banished their indi- gestion, toned up their stomachs and stimulated their livers and bowels to healthful working order. As a stomach and liver tonic, its equal would be hard to find.

I Beulah Competitive Concert. I INTERESTING CONTESTS. A competitive concert was held at the Congre- gational Chapel, Beulah, on the 12th inst. The proceeds were to augment a fund to purchase an organ for the chapel. There was a good at- j tendance and a substantial sum obtained for the object in view. The secretarial duties were ably carried out by Mr T. R. Thomas and Mr Jones acted in the capacity of treasurer. The chair was | taken by the Rev. D. A. Griffith (pastor). Adju- dicators were :-Music, Messrs. W. H. 0. Tho- mas, Talwrnmaenog, and D. I. Davies, Llangam- march; literature, Messrs. E. J. Davies and W. Price, Bealah; prize-bags, Mrs Davies and Mrs Jones. Beulah; accompanist, Mrs E. J. Davies, The School. Prize-winners :—Recitation, under 8:1, Blod- wen Powell; 2. Leslie Jones. Recitation, under 16, Miss J. Thomas. Recitation, open, divided between Miss J. Jones and Mrs J. Thomas. Open solo. Miss S. Williams, Llanwrtyd. Solo for children 1, Miss May Davies; 2, Miss Ceinwen Jones; consolation prize, Miss Maggie Powell. Duet Messrs. J. Jones and J. Jones, Llangam- march. Quartette Mr D. E. Griffiths and friends. Party of 12 mixed voices, 2 parties entered namely, Beulah Sparks, conductor Mr D. E. Griffiths, and Llanafan Music Lovers. After a good competi- tion the adjudicators awarded the prize to Llan- afan, conducted by Mr W. Davies. Prize bags, divided between Miss Ceinwen Jones and Miss Maggie Thomas. Impromptu speech, subject, "Patriotism," winner, Mr T. R. Thomas.

Llanwrtyd's Council. I Election of Chairman. }?ETHOD QUESTIONED. l 40, I Llanwrtyd Wells Urban Council was held on the 17th inst. There were present Messrs. N. Evans (retiring chairman), E. Price, T. C. Dav- ies. J. A. Davies, J. A. Carey, D. I. Williams, T. R. Hope Davies, E. Saunders Morgan, S. Griffiths (clerk) and R. Williams (surveyor). Mr D. I. Williams proposed a vote of thanks to Mr Evans for his conduct in the chair during his year of office. They had had a most amicable year. Mr Price, in seconding, said Mr Evans had act- ed very fairly and had been very regular in his attendance. The clerk. on behalf of the officials, spoke of the able way in which Mr Evans had discharged his duties. Mr D. I. Williams proposed the election of Mr Hope Davies to the chair, and this was seconded by Mr Carey. Mr Price said he did not believe in the coun- cil's system of choosing the chairman. Mr Cor- bett Davies was the oldest person on the council, and had attended very regularly and took great interest in the work. He therefore proposed that Mr C. Davies take the chair. There being no seconder to the amendment, Mr Hope Davies took his seat as chairman. On the proposition of Mr Morgan, seconded by Mr Evans, Mr Corbett Davies was voted to the vice-chair. The clerk, commenting on the method adopted by the council from the beginning of electing each member of the council to the chair, said sentimentally it worked out very well. He thought that once they got a good chairman in he should remain in office for at least three years. Mr Williams agreed with the remarks of the clerk, and thought the matter should be decided t,here and then. Mr S. Morgan said every member should occupy the chair in his turn, and any alterations would be against the interests of the council. A lively discussion ensued, and it was even- tually proposed by Mr Price, and seconded by Mr Carey, that the present method of electing the chairman should be abolished two years hence.. As an amendment, Mr Morgan proposed that matters stand as before, and this was seconded by Mr Evans. On being put to the vote, the amendment was lost. Messrs. R. D. Jones (Brynonen) and Edgar Pritchard were appointed overseers. The committees stand as for last year. The question arising as to the abandonment of com- mittee meetings, a debate followed. It was ex- plained that there had recently been really noth- ingfor committees to sit for. Mr Saunders Morgan was strougly of opinion the cominitteesa should sit if there were only one item.

High Price for Bulls. I BRECON AND RADNOR SUCCESSES I AT HEREFORD SHOW. I Some big prices were realised on the occasion of the April show and sale of Hereford pedigree bulls at Hereford, where Brecon and Radnor breeders and buyers were again conspicuous. The highest figure was 205 guineas for "Leen General." of the famous Leen herd, bought for export. Among the successes were Over two-year-old btills.-Ist, Mr D. T. Jef- rt-ys, Trecastle, "Lynch Model." Two-year-old bulls.—2nd, Col. T. Wood, Gwernyfed, Three Cocks, "Gwernyfed Justice." Y earlings.-r, Mr H. A. Christy, Llangoed Castle, "Llangoed Lemon"; he.. Lord Rbondda. "Traitor" and lie, 'Mr R. Keene, Llanvihangel Court, Abergavenny, "Russian." Other sales included Mr W. Jones's (Llanigon) "Landmark," 55 guineas, to Mr Spencer, Aberga- venny; Mr P. G. Beavan's (Llanigon) "Protec- tor," 60 gs., to Mr T. Jones, Great Weston, Montgomery; Mr J. Jones's "Lancer," 43 gs.; Lord Rhondda's "Lothario." "Traitor" and "Geordie," 42 gs., 70 gs. and 25 gs., respective- ly: Mr J. P. Prosser's (Trevithel, Three Cocks), "Hard Lines," "Harold," "Hilarity" and "Hor- atius," 41 gs., 42 gs., 43 gs. and 45 gs., respec- tively; "Harold," sold to Mr Richards, Erwood, and "Horatius." to Mr Price, Talgarth; Mr L. Williams's (Monmouth), "Sweet Duke," 39 gs. Mr J. H. Edwards's (Presteign), "Emperor," 40 gs.. to Mr Davies. Porthamal; Mr D. J. Thomas's (Talachddu, Brecon) "Constable," 39 gs.; Mr Wm. Price's (Three Cocks) "Landlord," 30 gs.; Mr R. Keene's (Llanvihangel) "Russian," 60 gs.; Mr W. Jones's (Llanigon) "Oyster's Master- piece," 95 gs.; Col. Wood's "Gwernvfed Koran," 33 gs. Among chief buyers :—Mr Morgan (Cardiff), Orion," 41 gs.; Mr Jeffreys (Trecastle), "Leen Gloaming," 59 gs.; Mr I. Thomas (Garth), "Pri- mus, 70 gs.; 'Mr Williams (Rhayader), 50 gs. for Major Stewart Rolbinson's "Vanguard" Mr Hughes (Caesws, Mont.), 55 gs. for Mr W. Jen- kins's '(Westhide Court and South Wales) "Sub- marine"; 'Messrs. James (Milford Haven), "Blue Cross," 41 gs.; Mr Davies (Llowes, Hay). 40 gs. for Earl Coventry's "Vengeance"; Mr Smith (Greenway, Brecon), 58 gs. for Mr K. W. Mil- nes's "Hungerford"; Mr G. C. Roonev (Cardiff), 45 gs. for Mr G. Butters' ifNewton Merit"; Mr J. Jones (Crickhowell), 52 gs. for Mr W. Grif- fith's "Aldersend Ivanoff" Mr G. P. Jones (Taly- bont), 60 guineas for "Bound's Forecast"; Mr R. McTurk (Brecon), 37 gs. for "Red Tape"; Mr E. Jones (Raglan), 33 gs. for "Magneto"; Mr Braithwaite (Cardiff), 32 gs. for "Woodhouse Fortune"; Mr E. Jones (Bolgoed, Brecon), 39 gs. for "Jea.lousy": Mr Powell (Cusop, Hay), 37 gs. for "Constable"; Mr Jones (Llanigon), 41 gs. for Mr de F. Penefather's. M.P., "Dashing Ringer"; Mr Crumley (Raglan), 42 gs. for "Wharton Star"; Mr Jones (Brecon), 65 gs. for Mr W. Griffith's "Aldersend Lone Star"; and Mr Beavan (Llanigon), 33 gs. for "Gwernyfed Koran."

A curious mixture of the picturesque and the utilitarian is to be found on the Monmouthsbire and the Brecon and Abergavenny Canals, which, including branches, cover over fifty miles. Some of the peeps, along the banks, would charm any artist, whilst at other points dirt and ugliness prevail. All this is apparent from the illustrations to an article on the canals by Mr F. C. Warren, and published in the "Great Western Railway Magazine." The canals date back to the closing years of the eighteenth century.

Llandovery Corporation are endeavouring to do without an inspector, under the Shops Act, during war time.

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Watergate Chapel. PASTOR'S RETURN. WORK IN FRANCE. Watergate Baptist Church, Brecon, held anni- versary services on the 18th inst., the first after the pastor's (Rev. D. 0. Griffiths) return from as- sisting the Y.M.C.A. in France. The rev. gentleman preached morning and afternoon, and, in the evening, he spoke on his experiences to a crowded congregation. Mr Griffiths said that the work of the Y.M.C.A. was so well known by this time that he could not hope to say anything new or startling. All he wished to do was to give his own impressions and to record his own experiences. Even so, there were many things that would have to be left un- said. No reference to military movements was permissible, but he thought that if he proclaimed everything he knew "upon the housetops, it would be of little use to the Germans, and would cer- tainly give them very little comfort. When through the kindness of the Church at Watergate he was able to accept the invitation to work in France, he was told that the minimum period was for three months, and the reason given was this, that those who went out for shorter periods talked too much when they returned. It was conjectured that in three months the desire to talk 1 would be considerably lessened. Mr Griffiths said that his own diary proved the wisdom of this step, for, whereas the first few pages were full of startling things, the remaining pages were ab- solutely blank. He had to depend that night very largely on his memory, but there were some things which stood out so prominently and so vividly that they could never be forgotten. I Y.M.C.A. Activities. I Mr Griffiths then gave a general outline of Y.M.C.A. activities at the front. Wherever there was a great camp there was also a Y.M.C.A. building. It seemed as thOlth the Y.M.C.A. or- ganisation had become an integral part of the British Army. So impressed were the military authorities with the value of the work that they offered every facility for extending its work. Just now we had Y.M.C.A. buildings just a few miles behind the firing line, and soldiers who had been in what is called the Plug Street area declared that one worker carried tea and coffee every morn- ing to the firing line itself. The association sought to minister to the whole life of man. Years ago the Y.M.C.A. was re- garded as very narrow in its outlook. That was true no longer. It was discovered that men went wrong for want of something better to do. They went wrong in trying to find satisfaction for their legitimate social needs, and the Y.M.C.A. aimed at crea'ting that kind of social environ- ment which would irresistibly appeal to men, and which would minister to their fullest social life. The huts were made as attractive as pos- sible. During the cold and damp weather they were heated. The men were given full value in the way of refreshments, and they were served in a genial and Christian spirit. Mr Griffiths re- ferred to a conversation which took place in the hut one d'ay between two soldiers. One was a new comer and knew very little about the Y.M.C.A. He said to his companion, "I say, old man, what religion is this?" "Religion," was the reply, "this ain't no religion, this is Christianity." Muoh of their work was preventive. It was not distinctively Christian. It helped to keep the men out of the canteens. Anything and everything ,that helped the men to live clean, sober lives was used as an instrument for good. There were some things, good in themselves, which had been abused, and it was thought by some that the Y.-iNI.C.A.- should not use them. The Y.M.C.A. however, took the position that all these things should be claimed and put to the highest ser- vice in the interests of the Kingdom of God. They claimed the cinema for example. They had two large separate buildings which were crowded every evening. Ca,re was taken to provide clean and wholesome pictures. Billiard tables were also provided in nearly all the huts, as well as draughts, chess and dominoes. I Letters Home. All day they were providing the men with pa.per and envelopes free of charge, and he was I told by a Canadian officer that this, is the finest piece of work the Y.M.C.A. was doing. The great thing, he said, was to keep the men in touch with tbeir homes. The men who kept in touch with their homes did not give much trouble to the authorities. Letters written on Y.M.C.A. paper since the war began were numbered by the million. This item of stationery alone cost the Y.M.C.A. £1,000 a week. Then they had circulating libraries, and they were utilised to the full. Then hundreds of books were given away to men who were going to I the trenches. They were asked to pass them along to their comrades when they had read them. A splendid bit of service was that rendered to the wives and parents of soldiers in the hospitals. There was a constant stream of these visitors just now, and they were met at the landing stage by the Y.M.C.A. motor-cars and taken care of until they were homeward bound again. Mr Griffiths mentioned several incidents in connection with this splendid department of service. Music. Music had a large place in Y.M.C.A. buildings. The concert parties sent out by Miss Lena Ash- well rendered excellent service. On these occa- sions the officers attended, and the building was always crowded. Usually, however, they had to depend upon their own resources, and the men themselves would provide the music. Songs of love and home were the favourites. "Keep the home fires burning" was in great demand, anct vth Canadians "The long, long trail," with its 'itmg melody, was a great favourite. In addition to concerts there we're lectures and re- fnls by men who had given fine positions at home in order to serve our men at the front. Every concert or entertainment was closed with the family prayers. Hardly a man would leave the building. A familiar hymn was sung, and then either the chaplain or one of the workers would lead the men in prayer and close with the recital of the Lord's Prayer. Speaking of hia Sundays in camp, 'Mr Griffiths said in the morn- ing there was the official parade service at which the chaplain would officiate. In the evening the service was voluntary, but, again, the building was usually crowded. The men seemed eager for a message as they faced the perils of the mor- row, and he thought many of them got the mes- sage they needed. 4 .Changed Views. Mr Griffiths then gave some of Jiis own per- sonal experiences. These were so many and so varied that only a small selection was possible. He related how, with the Rev. A. T. Matthews, late of Kensington, Brecon, be had taken part in baptising a young man on his way to the trench- es. He t> gave an account df a communion service in the Y.M.C.A. kitchen. The preacher said he had come back from France with changed viewa on some matters, but with stronger convictions than ever on the fundamental things. He be- lieved more strongly than ever in the power of the gospel to change men's lives. He believed that the world's hope was in Christ. The war would alter many things. It would be a changed world. He had no doubt about an ultimate vic- tory, but sometimes he had serious doubts as to whether we deserved victory. In the earlier stages of the war, in the presence of unknown danger, they had taken to their knees, but, now that their material forces were increasing, they hoped to overcome force with force. It was a. common complaint-"our people are enthusiastic about knitting socks, but they won't come to the prayer meeting." He believed the best service many of them could do to the men at the front would be to take to their knees again and pray, Lord, give us the victory, and especially make us worthy of victory." Mr W^ ilding conducted the choir and Miss Lena Davies presided at the organ.

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Llandovsry's Tribunal. WISHED TO RETIRE. At the last meeting of Llandovery Borough Tribunal, Major Stewart, D.S.O., presiding, a master plasterer applied for absolute exemption for an employee, aged 32, single. Applicant had several large contracts on hand. Mr Richard Thomas, a member of the Tribunal, said that, in consequence of the recent storms, a large number of roofs in the town and neighbourhood were damaged, and it was essential they should be at- tended to. It was stated that three of applicant's employees had already joined the colours, and the present one was the only one remaining. Exemp- tion till 14th July was granted. Absolute exemption was applied for by the war- den for a clerk in Holy Orders and a classical master at the college. 'It was stated that he was engaged in an occupation certified for exemption, and, the military representative assenting, abso- lute exemption was granted. A meeting of the Llandovery Rural Tribunal was held recently. The clerk (Mr D. T. M. Jones) reported that since the last meeting he had receiv- ed 'a letter from Mr Pryse Bees sta ting that he wished to retire from the committee. His resig- nation was accepted. The clerk appealed for the exemption of a clerk in his employ, a married man with five children, who is County Court clerk, sub-bailiff, and clerk for work in connection with the Board of Guard- ians 'and Rural District Council. He was the only one who devoted his whole time to these duties, and was indispensable. Captain Cremlyn, the military representative, assented to the applica- tion, which was granted on the ground of public utility.

Radnorshire Farmer. ALLEGED NEGLECT OF STOCK. R.S.P.C.A. PROSECUTION. j At Penybont Petty Sessions on Tuesday, before Mr J. Hamer (in the chair), Mr J. 0. Watkins, Mr J. Watkins, and Mr J. W. Owens, Arthur Watkins, Bwlchyfedwin, Cefnllys, farm- er, was summoned for cruelty to animals by ne- glecting to give the same sufficient food and at- tention ibetween February 9th and March 7th. The prosecution was instituted by Walter Thomas Laird. Newtown, Montgomery, an inspector of the R.S.P.C.A. Defendant pleaded "not guilty," and applied for an adjournment, stating that he had not had time to get legal advice, and that his witnesses were not able to come that day. His wife could not come because one of the children had broken its leg. He also intended to have samples of the hay there that day, but they had not arrived. Supt. Jones said that defendant was served on March 31st, and the inspector said that he told defendant on the 7th 'Ma.rch that he would be proceeded against. The bench decided that the case must go on, as the defendant had ample time. In the subse- quent proceedings, defendant examined the wit- nesses from written notes, but, none the less, he complained that he had not had time to get the case up. The magistrates' clerk remarked de- fendant seemed to have got the case up very thoroughly, but defendant replied that he had done it very badly. He was not educated enough. P.s. Morgan stated that he visited Bwlchyfed- win farm on March 6th. Defendant was not at home. In the building he saw a grey colt, about nine months old. It was in very poor condition, and the back bone was nearly protruding through the skin. In the cow house he found a calf down. lying in a heap of dung. It was suffering from ring-worm, and had been treated with some hot acid (probably acetic acid), which was much too strong. It had burned the skin. There was a bottle there labelled acetic acid. The calf was unable to rise through weakness and starva- tion. It was terribly poor. He then went to the Berries, about half-a-mile away, of which de- fendant was also the tenant. He there visited the building, and saw an aged bay mare. She was very poor and verminous. He also saw five calves and two cows in another part of the build- ing. They were in a poor state. In a field near the building he saw three horses. There was one in a fair condition, but the other two were thin. He also saw another colt at Bwlchyfedwin. This was a bay colt, and thin, but not so poor as the other. He saw food before some of these animals, but it was chaff. He saw no food at the Berries. The ground was deeply covered with snow. No grass was showing. The follow- ing day he accompanied the Inspector of the R.S.P.C.A. to Bwlchyfedwin and the Berries. The calf was dead, and lying in the same place as he had previously seen it. The calf had been dead some hours. There was some chopped straw stuff in front of the colt at Bwlchyfedwin. He saw no oats. He saw no hay at Bwlchyfed- wl n, 'but he saw fine boltings of threshed straw. At the Berries there was a quantity of hay and straw in the building, and also a small stack of hay and rushes mixed on a field. The hay in front of the mare was very bad, and the hay generally lacked nourishment, and, in his judg- ment, it was unfi,t to keep the animals alive un- less other food was given. There were animals locked in at the Berries and could not get to the stack. They got the key from Bwlchyfedwin be- fore going to the Berries. Later in the day he was present with the inspector when they met defendant and had a conversation with him. He heard the inspector tell defendant he should re- port him. and he replied, "I should think not." He said it would pay him better to buy proper food for the animals than to pay a fine. Walter Thomas La ird. N ewtown, inspector of R.S.P.C.A., corroborated, his statements as to the condition of the animals and the poverty of the food being equally emphatic with those of the last witness. One of the animals, he said, was too weak to stand alone and was supporting itself by standing up against the manger. This was an old pony mare and ought to have been killed. Witness added that in the conversation with the defendant, lie told him that his wife said she was not allowed to feed the animals with the oats which were in one of the bedrooms. ØDefendant said, "I am getting out of this hole on the 2.5th March, and the cattle cannot have the seeds I want to take with rue." Defendant subjected witness to a long cross- examinationV in course of which he admitted that if the acetfc acid had been diluted with water, it was a remedy for ringworm. The weather was bitterly cold, but these animals were all suffering from starvation. Death was not due to exposure to cold, but it had been one of the roughest winters on record. He did not go into the back- kitchen. and so could not sav what fodder was in there. When he saw the animals later in the month they had tremendously improved. The Defence. Defendant, in his defence, gave full details of how his time was spent during the period in re- spect of which the neglect of the animals was al- leged, his main object being to show that, ow- ing to the many inconveniences caused by re- moval from one farm to another, he had to cope with many exceptional storms which were then being experienced. His nephew from the Foice and his wife were looking after the stock at Bwlchyfedwin and the Berries on the days he was absent at Gellygarn. Some of his neighbours had been very good (this ironically) and had sent the inspectors to his farm to see how things were going on. His neighbours had told him before that if he did not feed his animals better that they would send the inspector there. The weather was very bad at this time, and the snow was up to the top of the hedges and over the gates. He had taken the fodder, or most of it. to Gellygarn, and his intention was to use up all the fodder that was left at Bwlchyfedwin, and then take the stock which was left on to Gelly- garn. He could not move1 the stock, as he in- tended,because of the snow and cold. He would ad- mit that the calves and colt were a bit bare, because they had been eating together, and the one had beaten the other. The colt was bare when he bought it. Colts sometimes got very much down from colds, but they came all right again. This one had had a cold, and he had been as good to him as ever he could be. He tried to cure the calf of the ring-worm, and it died not from want of food, but from the very cold weather. The buildings at the farms he had had were very bad, and he had often complained about them. It was enough to starve the devil there. (Laughter.) He had tried to look after the stock to the best of his ability, and he had taken over X40 worth of winter keep over to Gellygarn. The Chairman The point is that, even if you had plenty of fodder there, you did not give it to the stock. Defendant I did give it to them, and I can call witnesses to prove that I bought plenty of winter keep and fodder. I should have taken the animals over to Gellygarn, where I had plenty of fodder, but ;Could not do so because of the bad weather. The chairman said they thought this was I rather a bad case. but thev were willing to take into consideration the very severe weather they had had, and, except for that, a very much heavier penalty would have been imposed than what he was going to announce. Defendant was now moving on to a very good estate, where lie would have no ground for complaint about build- ings Defendant I hope I shall have better neigh- bours. The chairman said it was quite clear that de- fendant had fodder at the farms of some quality, but it was not properly given to the animals. The bench were not quite unanimous, but they had de- cided to fine defendant X2, and they hoped that in future he would look after his stock properly. Defendant applied for time to pay, and was given 7 days, with. the alternative of a month's imprisonment. Defendant observed that the month would be as good for him as the 7 days, as he could not get the money in that time as he had R45 to pav for rent. He went on to make some offensive re- marks, but was promptly told to desist, and he said he was referring not to the bench but to his neighbours. Supt. Jones said none of defendant's neighbours had reported the matter to the police, and it was not right for them to be blamed.

Women on the Land. MOVEMENT IN RADNORSHIRE. THE PATRIOTIC VIEW. Radnorshire Women's Farm Labour Com- mittee met at Llandrindod Wells on the 17th inst., Mrs C. Coltman Rogers presiding. Those present were Mrs Venables-Llewelyn, The Hon. :Mrs Morgan, Boughrood Castle: Mrs Mortimer Baylis, Glagbury; Mrs Morgan, Rhayader; Mrs Lewis Jones, Heyope Rectory; Mrs Watkins, Nantywellan; Mrs Jenkins, Llwyn- melyn; Mrs Jones, Cefnpenarth; Mrs Thomas, The Shop, Penybont; Mrs Singers-Davies, The Rectcry, Llandrindod; Mrs Oliver, Middleton Street, Llandrindod; Mrs Sims, Llandrindod; Mrs Moseley, Llandrindod; Mrs Pryce, The Court, Aberedw; Mrs Wale, Presteign; Mrs Evans, Court Farm, Evenjobb; Miss Powell, and Miss Every-Halsted, of Downton House, New Radnor; Mrs Thomas, Bryngwyn Rectory, Whit- ney-on-Wye, and Mr David Thomas (Agricultural Organiser). Miss Strachan, of the Board of Trade, attended to explain the scheme of the registration of women workers on the land. Mrs Coltman Rogers referred to the necessity of organising all available labour, to assist in the production of food supplies at this great crisis. Miss 'Strachan dwelt at some length on the sub- ject in its various aspects. One great difficulty was to convince farmers that women could render valuable services on the land. She instanced what successful work was being done in other parts of the country, where a certain degree of prejudice existed in the minds of farmers twelve months ago. The first step was to get the women of the villages and towns that were willing to offer their services as part or whole time workers enrolled, and most likely the demand for their assistance would come later when the scarcity of labour would be felt more acutely. To do this thoroughly a house to house canvass should be carried out. Regarding the matter of wages she said that this would have to be dealt with locally, as conditions varied considerably in different dis- tricts. She thought that 3d. an hour would be a fair .average for casual, and from 12/- to 15/- a week for regular workers. There should be trac- ing centres in the county, where those not ac- customed to farm work could be. trained in cer- tain farming operation. Possibly, some farmers would be found who would be willing to take a few women in to be trained for a short period, before being placed on farms as wage-earners. Above all, the whole matter should be looked up- on from a patriotic stand-point by both employers and Employed. She urged that all those present would take the work of canvassing their respective i districts enthusiastically. She was confident that the results wo did he astonishing, and that the difficulties which appeared almost unsur- mountable at present would be overcome. A very interesting discussion followed, and it was resolved to hold public meetings throughout the county early hi May.

I Brecon Board of Guardians. I ESTIMATE AND "CALh" Present at the Brecon Board of Guardians, on I Thursday, were Mr Owen Price (chairman), Miss Adelaide Williams, Revs. T. Griffiths. A. Garnons Williams and T. C. Richards, and Messrs. E. T. Hyde, John Jones (Llandefalle), Wm. Morgan, J. G. Jones, J. Price, T. Morgan, J. Jones (Glyn), J. Jones (Battle), J. J. Wil- liams. Thomas Williams, T. Morgan, J. P. Williams, Rees Williams, Evan Jones, David Davies, 0. T. Harrys Howells, J. Phillips, Dl. Watkins, Jenkin Williams, A. A. Mitchell, J. Thomas, David Thomas, Edgar Morgan, W. C. Davies, W. Morgan (Glyntawe), John Smith, J. F. Ricketts, John Powell. John Jones (Llanfihangel-Nantbran) ,and W. Watcyn Williams, the deputy-clerk (Mr E. J. Hill), the master (Mr Thomas) and other officials. The chairman (Mr Owen Price), who was un- animously re-elected to the chair for the ensuing year, on the proposition of Mr Mitchell, seconded by the Rev. Garnons Williams, returned thanks and said that this board pulled together as well if not better than many boards in the Principal ity. He was very glad to inform them that the rates would be down to some extent during the coming year, although he did not think the board had been extravagant in the past. It was their duty at the present time, however, to curtail ex- penses and practise economy as much as possible. Although they had been careful in their expen- diture, he did not think it could be said tlia.t the paupers had suffered in any way by it. (Hear, hear.) On the other hand, he believed the amount which had been paid in this direction had increased during the last two or three years. Mr John Jones (Lf"mnhangeI-Nantbran) was unanimously re-elected vice-chairman. From the 1st to the 19th inst. 89 vagrants re- ceived relief at the Workhouse—a decrease of 42 compared with the corresponding period last year. There are 56 inmates in the house. Estimate and Rate. The clerk. in presenting the estimate for the half-year ending September, said there was a total increase in expenditure of £134, accounted for by in-maintenance £30, lunatics R50, salaries £30, and slight increases in rations, superannuation and other items. The estimated expenditure worked out at 4id, which was a farthing higher than last year and mainly due to the increased cost of food they would have to pay in the next half-year. In the county rate there was a net -decrease of X697, equl valent to about lid in the R. The "rest" was the same at 2d— £ 968, and the estimated balances in band X578, w-h Ich left the amount of call at 2/2 in the R-three farthings less than the corresponding period last year. Mr J Smitti What accounts for the J630 in- crease in salary? The Clerk The estimate was put a little bit too low last time. The chairman said that was so. In proposing the adoption of the call. he said three farthings reduction was not large, but it was in the right direction. This was due to the County Rate being reduced and the Education Rate being somewhat less than it was on the previous year. He trusted it might be possible to further curtail the account in the future, ;but, as far as the guardians were concerned, their rates were about normal, and had been so for the past six years or more. There had been very little increase, except in in-main- tenance, and the cost of lunatics had gone up. On the whole, the estimate was very satisfactory. Mr John Jones, in seconding, hoped some means would be found to further reduce the county rate. The estimate and "call" were adopted. A communication from the L.G.B. was read to the effect that the nearest recruiting officer should be notified of single men of military age who re- ceived relief in the casual wards. The Army Council wou!d issue instructions as to the course to be taken when notice was given. The Chairman The master will undertake to do that.