The Llanelly Mercury and South Wales Advertiser

LLANELLY HARBOUR COMMISSIONERS. APPOINTMENT OF COLLECTOR. I The monthly meeting of the Llanelly Harbour Commissioners was held on Monday at the Town Hall, Mr. John Griffiths presiding, there being also present—Messrs. Tom Hughes, E. Trubshaw, J. Maybery, W. Howell, J. Thomas, D. Thomas, Joseph Williams, J. Hansard, C. F. Thompson, R. Guest, W. W. Broiie, J. S. Tregoning junior, Ellis Evans, and David James, together with the clerk (Mr. H. W. Spowart), and the harbour engineer (Mr. Oolin P. Fowler). THB POST OF OOLLHCTOH. I Mr. W. H. Johns was appointed collector to the I 901ttvnissioners in succession to the late Mr. Jennings at a salary of P-100 per annum. A sum of £10 was also grunted him for xtra services in connection with the Harbour Act of last year. -1 THE DUKE OF BEAUFORT. I It was decided that a sum of £ 50 be paid to the I agent in consideration of his withdrawing Ms opposition to the Harbour Act of last year. HABBOUE ENGINEER'S REPORT. I The dredger has worked 95 hours 30 minutes, and lias raised 4.460 tons of material during the Month. An additional carpenter has been engaged Owing to the necessity for new buoys. On March 14th, the Eleanor s.s., could not see the pilot tug anywhere in attendance, consequently she came to Llanelly without a pilot. There were no pilots in attendance on hobbling duties when she arrived at Llanelly. consequently she went aground, On March 20, 1897, the Teesdale,' s.s., with pilot R. Richards on board, was unable to leave his pilot, as the tug was not in the bay the Teesdale s.s. Was conseanentlv delaved 12 hours in the nav.  1 submit a letter from Messrs. John Waddell and Sons with reference to the "Albertina" s.s., being Uaable to obtain a Pilot. I have enquired into the circumstances and find that on the particular day in question the Hero steam Tug put Pilots on Vessels in Caldy Roads on the morning tide, and then after towing certain Vessels to sea, returned to Burry Port at 8.10 p."n. The Captain of the Albertina stated that he came to the Bar about l hours after high water. The Hero proceeded to the Bay and the Pilot was put on Board the Abertina" at 5.50, or 10 miuutes after high Water. This is undoubtedly a clear failure in the Performance of the duties by the Tugs and for which they are paid. On the 8th inst., the I Advent" ,.s., came to Llanelly, light, drawing 11 feet, the height "ofl tide being 17ft. 6in. The pilot persuaded the captain to take a tug. 1 do not consider this to have been Necessary as the vessel had a clear margin of six feet six inches under her keel. The captain com- Plained to me, personally, and said he was a stranger, j\nd was astonished at the facility of approach to the harbour and any necessity for a tug. I have Previously complained of some of the pilots requisitioning tugs when absolutely unecessary. I see vessels often going out without on considerably jess margin and can understand a vessel like the "Geneva" with only one foot of a margin and about 2,000 tons of cargo, requiring a tug, but iiot this vessel referred to above. I recommend that the pilotage in this case be reduced to one half. Mr. John Treharne boarded the Tivyside s.s., in the Great Western Dock on 5th April, the vessel having come in from sea and docked, he then got the captain to sign the pilotage note, as having boarded the vessel in Limit No, 1, and had 11.ever been on the vessel at all within the naviga- tion from sea to dock. I submitted the conditions of contract for the construction of the dock fo legal Certification on the 15th March, Those require Printing and binding with the specification which has been submitted to the printer. WAGES ACCOUNT. The wages account for five weeks is as follows n .S s. d. "ock 7 12 a itarbour 39 4 0 f "oyage 23 9 10 :j.:E:.E::iH::H.E:: Î! :i ledger 3? 19 11 X123 11 5 The complaints against the pilots were referred to the Pilots' Committee.

FREE LIBRARY ACT. — ♦— THE QUESTION DISCUSSED BY THE COMMITTEE OF THE INSTITUTE, A meeting of the Mechanics' Institute Committee as held all Friday evening last, Mr. J. G. Daw Presiding, when the question of establishing a free library in the town was discussed. Rev. Eivet Lewis proposed that steps be taken with a. "tew of adopting the Free Library Act in Llanelly. lIe said that a good deal had already been done to- ards establishing a free library in the town since he a-me here. Some progress had been made through Revisit of Mr, Ballinger, of Cardiff, some time ago, gave a very interesting lecture on the subject. t was a lecture which caused a large ?ouut of discussion at the time. Free libraries had been very successful in other parts of the ountry, and he did not see why there should be any deviation from rule at Llanelly. Some few weeks ago they instructed their secretary to pay a visit to the ■Swansea and Cardiff free libraries and to bring back all the facts and figures concerning those places. The Secretary had fulfilled his task and they would agree j "litit him that the report was an excellent one. The rteable value at Llanelly might not be sufficient to 1ve all that we wanted. However, if all the Id. rate e'3uld be devoted to the working of a free library they ould do very well, A good suggestion was that the Present members might continue their subscriptions of s- a year so as to guarantee a large collection of books Or the library, the paying members to have the sole 14se of the books for the first 12 months. There was a 8imilar charge made at Swansea in circumstances of 1S kind. First of all, no doubt, they would have to elI t °?cuitn meering oi me sunscnoers TO oDtam heIr consent in the matter. The handing over of the j titufcion would be a, great gift to the town at large. ()III be indeed a. deed of charity. It would mean a ing of a handsome present to the town. A free lib6 "ary was calculated to a great degree to induce the generosity of the wealthy. Moreover, a free library he a great boon to the to?n, advancing educa- ttien 11 and promoting habits of thought among an sec- ,0,8 of the inhabitants. llr- R. Peregrine seconded the motion. he Chairman You suggest a meeting of the sub- bribers Mr. Lewis ? :Rev. E. Lewis Yes, that will be the first thing. tb 41r. R. Stuart supported the motion, but considered tjh» p greatest difficulty would be that of inducing the ? ??gh Council to sanction a penny rate. ?Ir. W. David recognised the same difficulty. i l\i.f. R. Guest was not disposed to think that if the iosrftUti°n were converted into a free library, there 'u be any more readers. rl he Chairman was of a like opinion. 4r. Fred Thomas opposed the motion. 1\7 ».nally the meeting was adjourned on the motion of Air. John Marker.

THE TRADE OF THE PORT. Ð co ?'? March, 60 vessels paid dues at LIaneUy as e0m are(* with 59 in February. The imports were 5383 Ions as compared with 8,675 in February, and the "?Ports (exclusive of tillplates) were 12,880 tons ? 4-lainrt 10,056 in February. At Burry Port 12 Vess?s paid dues as against 11 iu February.

THE TOWN ACCOUNTS LOCA.L OR AN OUTSIDE ACCOUNT- ANT? I ANIMATED DISCUSSION AT THE BOROUGH COUNCIL. At a meeting of the Llanelly Borough Council, held on Monday, Mr. D. W. Rees presiding, an ani- mated discussion ensued on certain recommenda- tions of the Finance Committee dealing with the engagement of an accountant to prepare the accounts of the Council for the government audit. The recommendations of the Finance Committee were as follows:— The finance committee of the Llanelly Borough Council met on Tuesday of last week at the Town Hall. Mr. J. Griffiths presided, there being also present: Messrs. T. Hughes,E. Trubshaw J. Maybery and J. Thomas. It was decided that the clerk attend upon Mr. R. G. Cawker, in Swansea and produce to him the ledger and the minute book, and ask for an estimate of the cost ot entering up the books or account of the Council and reporb to the Finance Committee on Thursday." "A meeting of the Finance Committee was again held on Thursday. The Clerk reported that he had seen Mr. Cawker at Swansea, and ascertained that he was auditor to the Swansea corporation and that his staff thoroughly understood the work necessary to be done in connection with the Council accounts. Mr. Cawker said that his fee would not exceed in any case S50. A letter was read from Mr. W. David applying for the work. Mr. W. Howell proposed, and Mr. Ellis Evans seconded that Mr. W. David be entrusted with the preparation of the accounts of the Council for audit, subject to the fee being satisfactorily arranged. Mr. E. Trubshaw pro- posed as an amendment that having heard Mr. Cawker's fee would not exceed X50 and in view of the special nature of the work that Mr. Cawker be instructed to proceed therewith. The amendment was put to the meeting and carried by the chairman's casting vote. Mr. T. Hughes proposed and Mr. J. Thomas seconded that they should advertise locally. This was put to the meeting, declared carried, and referred to the Council." At the Council on Monday it was moved and seconded that the recommendations be adopted. Mr. Trubshaw rose to move an amendment, and detailed the policy followed by the Finance Com- mittee in asking the clerk to get Mr. Cawker's terms. It was now recommended that the committee should stultify themselves by adopting other lines. He felt the position most keenly, and he moved as an amendment that Mr. Cawker be instructed to do the work at a cost not exceeding £50. Any resolution short of this would be derogatory to the Finance Committee who had formulated a definite policy after serious consideration. Mr. Cawker was thoroughly conversant with the work, as he undertook the audit of the accounts of the Swansea ') Corporation. The local circumstances were very exceptional, and without going into details dealing with the exceptional circumstances and difficulties, he contented himself with moving as an amend- ment that Mr. Cawker be appointed. He did not wish to drive business out of Llanelly. It was ndfc part of his business to drive anything out of Llanelly. This had not been his policy hitherto, nor would it be in the future. But when they were confronted with an extraordinary position like the present, it was their duty to meet the difficulty in the best possible way. He did not wish to make any reflection on any local man, and the exceptional circumstances constituted the only reason why he moved the amendment. Mr. Maybery seconded the amendment and endorsed the observations made by Mr. Trubshaw. Mr. W. Howell supported the confirmation of the minutes of the committee. It did not appear to him that anything had been done at the first meeting of the committee of an irrevocable char- acter, as the clerk had only discussed the matter with Mr. Cawker. At the second meeting, the matter was further discussed and an application was received from Mr. David. He then proposed that Mr. David be entrusted with the work, feeling confident that he was fully competent to do it. He was of the same opinion to-day. A great deal had been said as to Mr. David not being a chartered accountant but he ventured to state that there were many members of the Society of chartered accountants who had passed no examination. He ventured to state that there were many men in Llanelly competent to do the work of chartered accountants, but who were not members of the society because it meant that they were to confine themselves exclusively to that work. He was informed that there was nothing very special about the accounts. No special ingenuity was required for their preparation. Mr. Ellis Evans followed in the same strain. He believed there were men in Llanelly quite com- petent of doing the work, and he failed to see any reason why it should go elsewhere. Mr. Trubshaw said he had no desire to drive trade out of Llanelly, but he was bcmnd to say that the amendment look- ed very much like it. Mr. Thompson understood that the Finance Committee had been empowered to make arrange- ments with Mr. Cawker, The Clerk said that was not decided. Mr. Tregoning supported the amendment of Mr. Trubshaw. Mr. Guest contended that the Finance Committee had been empowered to get the work done. Mr. Trubshaw replied that at the last meeting of Finance Committee it was decided to refer the whole question back to the Council for considera- tion. Mr. Guest: That doesn't appear in the minutes of the committee. Mr. Tom Hughes explained that upon maturer consideration, he was disposed to think the work could be done locally. Mr. Joseph Williams said he would be second to none in supporting Mr, David when he considered him the best man, but on the present occasion he was constrained to support the appointment of Mr. Cawker. After a farther discussion a vote was taken, when it was decided to appoint Mr. Cawker by a large majority. The voting was as follows :— For Mr. Trubshaw's amendment. Against. The Chairman Mr. Tom Hughes Mr. Trubsbaw W. Howell Maybery J. Thomas Joseph Williams" D. Thomas Hansard „ R. Guest Thompson E. Evans Brodie Tregoning D. James J. Griffiths

BEN EVANS & CO., LIMITED. MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS. A PROSPEROUS CONCERN. The annual meeting of the shareholders in Messrs. Beu Evans & Co., Ltd., Swansea, was held on Monday morning. Sir Joseph Renals presided, and was supported Mr. Jackson, Mr. James Parker, Mr. Alfred R. Gery, Mr. John White, (managing director), Mr. W. H. Ainsley (secretary). There was a fair general attendance. The report and statement of accounts showed that a dividend of 7 per cent. was to be declared on the year's working. The Chairman proposed the adoption of the report and referred to the splendid success of the concern.—Mr. Jackson seconded the adoption of the report. He did it with pleasure, and should like if possible, to accentu- ate the remarks by the chairman about Mr. John White, and express his own acknowledgement and appreciation of his service. They were convinced that the success of the 12 months' working had been mainly due to the important services rendered by Mr. White and his staff, during a time when circumstances had been somewhat adverse to the development of the busi- ness. (Hear, hear.) The resolution was carried uu- animously. The Chairman proposed the re-election of Ur. Gwiiym Evans as a director. He did that with mingled feelings, as Mr. G ilym Evans was so very unwell. He had telegraphed that owing to a relapse he could not be with them that day. However, he was an admirable director and one of their largest customers, and it would cheer him to see he was. unanimously re-elected. Mr. Meredith seconded and the resolution was carried with acclama- tion. On the motion of Mr. Mayhew, seconded by Mr. W. James, Messrs. Percy Mason and Co. were re- elected auditors, and the ordinary meetisg terminated.

LLANELLY BOROUGH COUNCIL. I THE PROPOSED FEVER HOSPITAL. I THE QUEEN'S DIAMOND JUBILEE. The adjourned monthly meeting of the Borough Council was held at the Town Hall on Monday, Mr. D. W. Rees presiding, there being also present: Messrs. J. Griffiths, E. Trubshaw, J. Maybery. J. Thomas, Tom Hughes, W. Howell, Ellis Evans, D. Thomas, J. S. Tregoning (jnnr.), J. Hansard, C. F. Thompson. R. Guest, and Joseph Williams, together with the clerk (Mr. H. W. Spowart), and the surveyor (Mr. G. Watkeys). A VOTE OF CONDOLENCE. I The Chairman said that he had to propose a vote of condolence with the widow and family of the late Mr. H. J. Howell. The deceased gentleman had been for years chairman of the Council and held at the time of his death the position of chairman of the Llanelly School Board. It was very calamitous to lose so many of their public men. The deceased gentleman's loss would be keenly felt. Mr. J Griffiths seconded and remarked that ( nobody would miss the deceased gentleman more than he would. The vote was passed in silence. A DEPUTATION FROM THE HOSPITAL. ] The Chairman said there was a deputation from the Hospital Committee outside who wished to appear before the Council. The deputation con- sisted of Messrs. R. Maclaran, Samuel Bevan, F. R. Randell, W. Pugh, Major Bythway and the secretary (Mr. F. L. Rees). Mr. Maclaran said that they had come there as a deputation to ask the Urban District Council to give their support to the Hospital Special Com- mittee, who intended raising a fund for the benefit of the hosoital in order to commemorate the fiO years' reign of their Queen. He would read out a resolution passed by their committee to the effect that a deputation wait upon the Urban District Council for the object of obtaining their support to raising subscriptions for the erection of a children's ward in the hospital. He asked them to select two of their members to sit on the special committee as the representatives of the Council. There would be two members from the County Council, School Board, and the Board of Guardians. There were in the hospital a number of children, and he did not think it proper that the children should be in the sarne room as the adults. The Chairman said that jubilee schemes were on foot in all parts of the country and he did not see why they should not support a scheme at Llan- elly. Mr. Maclaran remarked that the Council should pass a resolution of support. Mr. Guest thought they should get the voice of the ratepayers in this matter. He suggested that they should call a town's meeting. He would not like to vote for any special resolution until a meet- ing of that kind had been held. Mr. S. Bevan said that the special object in their appearance that day was in reference to the children's ward. Mr. J. Griffiths endorsed the remarks of Mr. Guest. Mr. Maclaran said that they required a ward for 12 or 14 children. The Chairman Altogether the sum necessary is about £ 2,000. Mr. Maclaran replied in the affirmative. Mr. F. Randell said he was disposed to take Mr. Guest's view on the matter. The Chamber of Com- merce were of opinoin that a public meeting should be first convened. The Chairman remarked that the Council would give the question their careful consideration. The deputation then withdrew. Mr. Trubshaw proposed that a public meeting be called to discuss the matter. He would like to see the hospital placed in a favourable financial position. Mr. J. Griffiths seconded. It was decided to hold the meeting on Wednes- day of next week at 8 p.m. THE BIGYN AS A SITE FOR THE FEVER HOSPITAL. I After the Clerk had read the minutes of the Sanitary Committee, Mr. Thompson objected to the fever hospital being placed on the Bigyn. The Bigyn was not a favourable place, as it was so thickly populated, and it has an increasing district. Not only that, but shortly the new Intermediate college would be opened and scholars would be passing that way to school. He thought that the sands would be the best spot for the hospital. Mr. Tregoning said'that the matter had not yet been settled, but that the surveyor had reported that the Bigyn was the best place for it. Mr. Thompson: I suggest that you place it on top of Old Road (laughter). Mr. Tregoning I don't mind at all if it was next door to me (laughter). Mr. Trubshaw suggested that the wording should be "thatthe Bigyn site and others be considered. The suggestion was agreed to. LLWYNHENDY WATER SUPPLY. I A letter was read from Mr. D. C. Edwards asking if the Borough Council could give any reply to the Rural District Council as to supplying Llwynhendy with water from the town reservoir. The Chairman remarked that the question had not been further considered. It was decided to convene a special meeting to consider the question. WAUNLANYEAFON. I A letter wasiread from Mr. T. J. Williams, asking whether the Council had decided anything in respect of the improvement of the approaches to the Park by an arrangement with the above estate. It was decided that the question be considered at a special meeting. THE EMBANKMENT. I A letter was read from Mr. J. S. Tregoning, junior, enclosing the resolution passed at the public meeting held at Bethania Chapel, in connection with the raising of the embankment. The Chairman said that the opinion of counsel had arrived, but it should be considered, he thought, in private. It was resolved that the question be discussed at the special meeting [ MISCELLANEOUS. The use of the Market Hall was granted for a concert in aid of the distressed 4inplaters. A letter was read from Mr. Mortimer Green, thanking the Council for the use of the Town Hall for the meeting of the court of governors of Aberystwyth College. Messrs. Joseph Williams, J. Hansard, and Tom Hughes were appointed to act on the Jennings' Memorial Committee. Dr. Sydney J. Roderick was reappointed medical officer. It was decided that the Town Hall caretaker be provided with uniform. TENDERS. Tenders were received and decided as follows:— Team work Capt. Henry Rees. I Kerbstones and water tables Mr. B. Phillips. Ironmongery: Divided between Mr. J. S. Griffiths and Mr. Henry Wilkins. Earthenware pipes Mr. John Thomas. Timber: Messrs. Brown, Thomas, and John. Coal: The Glynea Colliery Company. Castings The Glanmor Foundry Company. Printing: Mr. W. P. Tobias Williams and Mr. W Davies.

THE LAWN TENNIS CLUB. I The annual meeting of the above club has been held and ofifcers appointed. Messrs. H. W. Spowart and Marshall Spowart have been elected secretaries, and Mr. J. Gwynne-Thomas, treasurer.

HOMOCEA. WHAT COMFORT IT BRINGS! and how it causes pain to disappear can only be realized by those who use it. la all Aches and Pains, Colds, Chaps, and Chilblains "IT TOUCHES THE SPOT" and soothes the aching part.

AMONG THE ZULUS. I SANATORIUM OF "OUR LADY OF GRACES." ESTCOUNT, NATAL, SOUTH AFRICA, March 17th, 1897. I spent nearly all the month of February in the district of Klip river, near Laings-Nec and Majuba Hill, two places famous in the annals of South African warfare. It was in this locality that the Boers, who are among the first marksmen in the world, scattered the English forces to the wind at the battle of Laings-Nec, and it was on the highest pinnacle of Majuba Hill that Sir George Colley was shot through the head and fell dead, as in his capacity of commander of the English forces he was urging his men to follow him; here too it was that the Boers with consummate strategy and unerring aim, showered their bullets upon the ascen- ding army, causing the unfortunate men to roll down to the bise of the hill, forming a dead pile. A few days before 1 was in Peitersmaritzburg, the chief city of Natal, and stood long and mournfully at the great marble monument which commemo- rates the last dreadful conflict between the Kaffirs and the English troops. The sides of the monument give the ghastly ac- count of the numbers of men and officers killed in several engagements the names of many are engraved and tinong them many of my own fellow-countrymen, To-day I am writing in the district of Weenen. (Weenen is a Dutch word, and means weeping or sorrowing). In the village of Weenen there is a most imposing monument frected by the Boers, in bitter remembrance of the most sanguinary and savage massacre recorded in the annals of the Zulu warfare. The history is this in a few words.—The Dutch when conquered by the English in the Cape Colony, made what was called the great Trek or departure in vast numbers into Natal, which then, in 1838, belonged to the Zulus. They wanted new territory, and they determined to apply for it to the Zulu King Dingaan, a monster of cruelty. The party set down in Weenen, while seventy horsemen, Boers, and thirty servants, proceeded as a deputation to the Royal Kraal of the king, who surrounded by his enormous body-guard of warriors received them with unbounded ceremony. The leaders of the deputation were Peiter Retief and Gert Maritz (in whose honour Peitermaritzburg is named) and signed the deed—when, lo! as the unfortunate men, one hundred in total number, were about to depart, the king gave orders to his soldiers, Kill the wizards! and in less than an hour the spears of the Zulus were dripping with the blood of the whole deputation. The Zulu king followed up this horrid slaughter by sending several thousand of his picked soldiers at once to the spot now called Weenen, where six hundred Boers were waiting their absent comrades. It was in the dead of night when all were asleep.. The slaughter was complete, only two escaped and in a few hours six hundred mangled bodies lay clotted gore. No marvel that that spot is called Weenen. May I now remark that the history of Africa since the arrival of the Dutch in 160C is in one way or another written in blood. Each page is daubed with human gore. I myself resided in the western district of the Cape Colony, from 1863 to 1875, and during that time. made a political social, and religious histol-y of the tribes of South Africa a special study. I had recourse to all the annals and chronicles that were available and I noted that every spot that was famous derived its fame from carnage. The Hot- tentots and Bushmen and Bantis or Kaffirs were the original possessors. The Dutch and Hottentots and Bushmen fought battle after battle, till the natives were nearly wiped out. Then in 1806 came the English, who fought the Boers the Dutch were conquered but treked, that is departed, this brought them in con- tact with the Zulus; then England followed under some pretense or other and so you have battles without number; one of the rivers is named Blood River from the crimson stream that mingled with ibis waters. Indeed the purple stream of blood of Hottentots. Bushmen. Boers, and English soldiers has saturated many spots of this fair land, blood all shed in the sacred name of conquest. I write these lines in no political bias, but as a traveller who notes events as he passes along. Yours faithfully, JAMES O'HAIRE.

PROPOSED FREE LIBRARY FOR LLANELLY. REFERENCES IN THE WESTERN MAIL. In many respects Llanelly is eminently progress- ive, and, taken as a whole, contains, probably, more intelligence than any town of its size in the United Kingdom. Moreover, as a rule it has the good sense to combine and move together, so that most things it takes in hand are brought to a successful issue. Over the question of a public library, however, Llanelly seems to have fallen from grace-at least, a considerable number of its prominent inhabitants have. These are content with the present means of self-culture and mental recreation which the town possesses, and consider a library a waste of money, if not something worse. Happily, they seem to be in a minority, so that the town is not likely to suffer from their want of public spirit and liberal mindedness. The Rev. Elfed Lewis, a man who knows the value of a public libraryas few men in Llanelly do, throws himself heart and soul into the movement in favour of the proposed free library, and is supported by a number of influential towns-people. He is right in speaking of the success of the libraries at Cardiff and Swansea. Those towns would sooner sell their coats or even the shirts off their backs rather than be deprived of an institution which gives them so much real pleasure and profit at such a comparative little outlay. If Llanelly wishes to enter into the com- pany of these towns it must provide itself with a free library, otherwise let it abide in the obscurity of villagedom.

I THE DISTRESS AT KIDWELLY. I Though a great many men have now obtained other employment elsewhere, there are still about 100 families in great need at Kidwelly. The mayor's fund has once more become totally exhausted, but owing to the fund of the Western Mail who made another grant of E15 on Saturday, there is sufficient money in hand now for one more distribution next week. A distribution was held on Saturday evening at the Town Hall, when some 112 tickets were given out by the mayor, Mr. E. V. Davies, and the hon. secretary, Mr. J. Morgan. Those two gentlemen were most careful in giving only to those who were in absolute need, and who had failed to find employment. There is not the slightest sound of re-start at the works, nor is there any news of the proposed sale. The mayor and the hon. secretary wish gratefully to acknow- ledge the receipt also of 21 18s. from Mr. Charles Bertram, of Plasmarl, Swansea, the proceeds of a raffle he got up, and £ 1 from Miss Gwendoline Macphail, of Carmarthen.

RAILWAY PLATFORM. I —————— UP. DOWN. Dep. Dep. 4'26 a.m. 7'57 a.m. 7*53 8-47 „ 10-34 10-24 „ 12'50 noon 12-25 noon 1-0 p.m. 2'4 p.m. 2'7 4 7 3-31 4-25 5-25 -5-36 „ 7-16 5.48 „ 7.34 „ 8-36 98'45 „ 9-20 „ 12-0 mid. Saturdays only. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays only. Thursdays and Saturdays, only. SUNDAYS. 13-29 noon 4-26 mail 5'48 p.m. 1*49 a.m 8*36 p.m. 8*28 p.m. BRANCH. UP ARRIVAL TIME Dep. 5'20 a.m. 9*5 a.m 8.15 10-18 10'S 11-5 3-15 p.m. 2-30 p.m. *5.30 „ 6'55 6-5 9-45 *11-0 -Saturdays only SUNDAY64 6'15 a,m. 5'45 p.m

MOREWOOD'S DOCTOR. I THE PRELIMINARY BALLOT. On Saturday last the operatives engaged at the South Wales Works, Llanelly, registered their votes in the first ballot in relation to the appoint- ment of a medical officer in succession to the late Dr. J. A. Jones, who held the post so many years. There were eight candidates in the field. The booth was opened for some hours, the arrangements carried out by the committee being of a very satis- factory nature. The greatest interest was taken in the proceedings, and no fewer than 933 operatives recorded their votes, each operative voting for one man out of the eight, a condition having been previously imposed that the two highest on the poll were to submit themselves to a second ballot. It is exceedingly creditable that of the 933 votes re- corded, there was really only one spoilt paper. The declaration of the poll was made early in the even- ing as follows Dr. J. L. Davies (Llanelly) 411 J. Edgar Davies (Llanelly) 323 i S. G. Morris (Nantgaredig) 84 „ E. Evans (Llanelly) 53 „ D. J. Williams (Lianellv) 28 „ S. J. Roderick (Llanelly) 19 G. P. James (Llanelly) 14 „ J. H. Jones (Festiniog) l A further ballot will be taken to-day (Thursday) on Dr. J. L. Davies and Dr. Edgar Davies. Mr. William Roberts was presiding officer and the scrutineers were Messrs. Evan Roberts and W. P. Rees. The committee were Messrs. David Thomas, John Thomas, David Harries, Alec Wilson, and J. R. Thomas. At the invitation of the men Mr. Herbert D. Rees, and Mr. D. O. Williams were present to superintend the arrangements.

THE DISTRICT COUNCIL THE LLWYNHENDY WATER SCHEME. I The fortnightly meeting of the Llanelly Rural District Council was held at the Union workhouse on Thursday last, Mr. T. Seymour presiding, there being also present: Messrs. W. Y. Nevill, P. T. Daniel, D. L. Rees, J. L. Thomas, J. Llewellyn, O. Bonville. D. Davies, and Rev. H. Evans, together with the clerk (Mr.D. C.Edwards), the deputy-clerk (Mr. J. H. Blake), the inspectors (Messrs. D. Rees, and D. P. Thomas), and the medical officer (Dr. E. Evans). LLWYNHENDY WATER SCHEME. I The Clerk reported that he had received no I reply from the Urban District Council in reference I to that scheme. CARETAKER OF THE TAPS AND PUMPS AT BURRY I PORT. A tender was submitted by Mr. Samuel Rees, Burry Port, for the repairing of the taps and pumps of that district. The amount quoted was z69 17s. 6d. The Clerk said that the amount of last year's tender was JE5. He had written to Mr. Rees to ascertain if he could reduce the amount. The reply was that he could not see his way clear to do so. Mr. D. Davies was of opinion that it was too much. The Clerk said that the number of taps had increased in that district At present, there were 16 taps, 22 valves and 4 pumps, as compared with 13 taps last year. Mr. D. L. Rees proposed that the tender be ac- cepted, as Mr. Rees had now a much longer way to walk than last year to get to the taps. Mr. P. T. Daniel seconded and it was carried.

OCCASIONAL POLICE COURT. I TOWK HALL, SATUEDAY, before Major Bythway. I DRUNK AND DISORDERLY. William Davies, Silverstream," Llanelly, was charged with being drunk on the 9th inst., at Stepney-street. P.C. W. Bowen deposed that he saw a crowd near the Cambrian on the night in question and there he asked the defendant to go away in conse- quence of the language he was using, Defendant went as far as Cowell-street and repeated his conduct, and had to be locked up. The Bench fined the defendant 5s. and costs 6s. 4d. Towx HALL, MONDAY, before Messrs. Samuel Bevan and Tom Hugbes. DRUNK AND DISORDERLY. Florence Elizabeth Plarcy, Narberth, was charged with being drunk and disorderly on the 10th inst. at Bridge-street. P.C. Robbings deposed that on Saturday night he was on duty in Bridge-street. He saw large crowds going over the bridge, and he went there to see what was the matter: He found the defendant cursing and swearing. She was asked to go away, but she refused. Defendant said that she was very sorry it had happened, and that if they would forgive her she would go out of town at once. The Bench discharged the prisoner on conditions that she went out of town before 1 p.m. HE COULD NOT GET BOOTS TO FIT HIM. I Arthur Laskley, of no fixed abode, was charged with begging at Pembrey-road, on Sunday last. P.S. J. Evans, sworn, said that on Sunday morning last about 9'30 he received a complaint that prisoner and another were down West End begging. He went down to Pembrey-road and caught them begging. He charged him with the offence. Prisoner said Why don't you take my mate as well, he is a little further down the road doing the same thing. Capt. Scott said there were frequent complaints of begging from Pembrey-road. The Bench: Where have you been working lately? Prisoner In Wrexham last. Mr. Brodie How long ago ? Prisoner: About three weeks ago. The defendant said that he could not get work because he could not obtain boots to fit him (laughter). The Bench said that such an able-bodied man as he should not be about the streets. They would commit him for 14 days. As the defendant was leaving the dock he said you call me able, I should not think so." I A PENNY WAS FOUND ON HIM. Thomas Roberts, of no fixed abode, was charged with begging on Sunday morning at Pembrey- road. P.C. Roblin deposed that he went down to Pembrey-road and saw the defendant there begging on Sunday morning. He went forward and asked defendant why he was begging. Prisoner replied I had no breakfast yesterday morning." Defendant admitted the offence. There was a Id. found on him. Defendant said that lie was working for a farmer in Macclesfield, and because he had a complaint on his body he was discharged. The Bench sent him down for 7 days. I LARCENY AND BEGGING. J. Williams, of no fixed address, was charged I with stealing a blanket, waistcoat, a pair of braces, and scarf from the Myrtle Hill Colliery, Mynydd- sylen, on the 7th inst., and also with begging on the same day at Five Roads. P.S. J. Williams, sworn, said that the defendant entered a shed belonging to the colliery and took the articles named. P.S. J. Evans deposed that he received informa- tion of the prisoner begging at Five Roads from J. Richards. The latter told witness that the prisoner was the man that was begging at his house, and he also mentioned several other houses where prisoner was begging. Prisoner said that he was at Carmarthen on the day in question, and when he heard what Richards had said, he replied that Richards was uttering a deliberate lie. The Bench dismissed the prisoner.

CARMARTHENSHIRE QUAR- I TER SESSIONS. The Easter Court of Quarter Sessions for Car- marthenshire was held at the Guild Hall, Car- marthen, on Friday, Sir James Hills-Johne., G. C.B.. V.C., Dolaucothi, presiding in the unavoid- able absence of Viscount Emlyn. Mr. W. N. Jones, Tirydail, qualified as magistrate by virtue of his office as chairman of the county council. Thomas Littlewood, a tramp hailing from Halifax, was sentenced to three months hard labour for feloniously breaking into the house of James Jones, Rhydyfarchenfach, Pencarreg, on the 3rd. inst. Mr. H. G. Phillips, solicitor, Llandilo, prosecuted.

SERIOUS OUTLOOK IN THE TINPLATE TRADE. QUARTERLY MEETING OF MANUFAC- TURERS. The quarterly meeting of the Midland iron trade on Thursday was tolerably well attended, but in respect of business contrasted unfavourably with the January meeting, when a boom seemed appar- ent. Competition is increasing in all departments* and prices are giving way. Galvanised sheets were quoted at V,9 10s at the works. Doubles, in spite of dearer spelter and black sheets, quiet at £ 6 5s. Steel was weaker than four months ago by about 5s. a ton, and unmarked bars were down to £5 15s.t as compared with £6 5s. the nominal association minimum. Tin-plates were 6d. a box lower than in January. The outlook of the tin-plate trade is regarded as uncertain, as it is not yet known whether the new American tariff will allow the rebate of 90 per cent. off the exported tinned goods, which was adopted to compete with the Russia. oil producers. The Staffordshire makers recorded a healthy lot of .inquiries for both coke and char- coal qualities, and the orders to4be given out seemed to be for continuous consumption ior the next tw* or three months. Many of th-, e were on account of local requirements in the ;.tcached trades, and a few London merchants wor repared to purchase for Colonial and Russian deliveries. The Welsh makers and agents appeared to be so favour- ably situated, and the character of the inquiriell made by them had apparently a depressing infla- ence on selling figures.

THE LLANELLY ENTIRE HORSE SHOW. AN INTERESTING EXHIBITION. The 25th annual Llanelly Entire Horse Show was held at Stradey Park on Thursday last. The number of entries was not large, but the horses exhibited were in excellent condition. The attendance was fairly large, amongst those present being Messrs. W. Buckley Roderick, W. J. Buckley, R. H. Sampson, F. N. Powell, D. John, T. Seymour, J. Randell, E. Trubshaw, P. T. Daniell. The duties of judgeS were discharged by Messrs. T. Thomas, the Bear, Cowbridge, and W. T. Jones, Glannewells Builth. These two gentlemen carried out their work in a very straightforward manner, and the results were very satisfactory. The secretary, Mr. S. N. Powell. must be given credit for working up the show so well. The arrangements were comnlete. Praises  I must also be given the treasurer, Mr. Jeremiah Williams, for his assistance. A full list of prizes is given below:— CLASS I.-Carters. For the best entire cart horse First prize, ze5; second prize, 93; third prise mios. 1st, Buccaneer III., the Carmarthenshire Stud Co., 2nd. Young Lord Blackburn, Sir A. Stepney, Llanelly. 3rd. Dashwood, the Carmarthenshire Stud Co. CLASS II.—Hackneys. For the best entire Hackney over 15 hands. 1st prize, X4; 2nd prize, E2; 3rd prize £ 1. 1st. Lord Dacre, the Carmarthenthire Stud Co; 2nd, Confidant, Mr. James Brogden, Iscoed, Ferry side. The 3rd prize was with held. CLASS III.—Cobs. For the best entire cob, not exceeding 15 hands. 1st,. prize £ 3 2nd prize £ 110. 1st. Heart of Welsh Flyer, Mr. J. Jones, horse trainer, Llandilo; 2nd, Stepping Gambler, Mr. Thomas Rees, Llangeitho; The next in order was Silver King, Mr. H. Rees, Greenbroft, Narberth.

COMMON DISEASES. 3.—THE KIDNEYS. Next in order of importance to the liver the kidneys play a most important part in the internal economy of the excretory organs. Their functions are solely purifying or excretory, by getting rid of effete products contained in the blood. Should they from any cause become inefficient the uric acid which should be excreted is retained in the circula- tory system and gives rise to urinic poisoning- ending fatally. There is no doubt that errors in eating and drinking give rise to all kidney troubles. When the X or Rontgen Rays have been turned on to these wonderful organs, the high liver will be able to see what his excesses have led up to, He will either see the small shrunk Kidney caused by excessive indulgence in spiritous liquors, or the large fatty kidney, degenerating as the result of over-eating and highly-flavoured flesh food, without having taken the necessary exercise to counteract fatty formations. These few remarks are mainly due to the fact which has been demonstrated be- yond the shadow of a doubt, that Kola, and Hopalin, from Hops, both ingredients in Dr. Tibbies' Vi- Cocoa, exercise a most beneficial effect on the structural tissues of the kidney, and so on its excretory functions. Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa is not in any sense a medi- cine. It is simply a nourishing beverage, and in in that respect it plays a most important part in the prevention of functional disorders. In these im- portant organs and others, Kola has a wonderful faculty of giving power to the involuntary muscles of the body. By involuntary we understand those muscles uot controlled by will. Those muscles which carry on the work of life without our con- sent, and unless looked at carefully in many in. stances, without our knowledge such as the beat- ing of the heart when asleep, the breathing of the lungs, the action of the kidneys, and the digestive process. Kola acts on these in a nourishing and strengthening sense, conserves the strength of these involuntary muscles, prevents undue waste, and by its beneficial action gives health and vigour to men and women. As people become more intelli- gent, they see that they should try and prevent disease. It seems strange, that when one comes to consider it, that the efforts of medical science are directed to curing, when preventing would seem to be a more rational proceeding. The unique vitalizing and restorative powers of Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa are being recognized to an extent; nitnerto unmown m ttie nistory or any preparation. Merit, and merit alone, is what is claimed for Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa, and the pro- prietors are prepared to send to any reader who mentions the Llanelly Mercury (a postcard will do) a dainty sample tin of Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa free and post paid. Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa is made up in 6d. packets, and 9d. and 4s. 6d. tins. It can be obtained from all chemists, grocers, and stores, or from Dr. Tibbies, Vi-Cocoa. Limited, Suffolk House, Cannon Street, London, E.C. LOCAL AGENTS VI-COCOA;— D. C. PARRY. St pney-street. RANDELL & SONS, Vaug-han-street. W. KNOYLE, Cowell-street. t PHILLIPS & Co., Thomas-street