The Pembroke County Guardian and Cardigan Reporter

MATHRY. The Mutual Improvement Society held their fortnightly meeting on Tuesday, the 22nd ult., when a large number were present. Mr. Griffiths, Mabus Fach, was to have read a paper on "The Education Question and its Solution," but he was unable to be present, and his paper was read by Mr. Lewis, Rhos- lancg, and at its conclusion we had a very lively discussion, the chairman (Mr. Birch, calling one speaker to rder fr giving a his- tory of the question and not a solution. When the chairman's turn came he took the bit be- tween his teeth, and we were at once in th3 thick of religious questions, and we had wjiat wa3 practically an impromptu debate oetween Mr. Lewis, Rboslanog. and the chairman on Religious and Secular Education.

BURTON. Williamston Men and Youths Club.—In De- cember a meeting of parishioners was held at the expre3:, wish of Sir O.rl.P. Scourficld, Bart., and Lady Seourrield, for the purpose of form- ing a Mel; and Youths' Club. The place of meet- ing was a building newly erected by Sir Owen and Lady ScouTfield, comprising three rooms and a cloakroom in Houghton village. Sir Owen and Lady Scourfield have agreed to let the building to the Committee at a nominal rent of 1. per annum to he used as a club house for the men and youths of Burton parish. One room is reserved for reading, a second for games such as drafts, dominoes, etc., and the third for billiards. A handsome billiard table has been furnished by the generous donors. Sir Owen and Lady Seourrield ^eeome the prosi- dents of the club, and the following gentlemen are elected vice-presidents:—The Earl Cawdor, Mr. W. F. Roch, M.P.; Mr. J. F. Lort Phillips; Mr. Hugh Allen. Mr. Hugh Thomas, Rev. W. L. Stubbs (rector); Captain Mayor, Mr. W. Hughes (Barnlake), Mr. T. Scale (Benton), and Mr. W. Morris (Llandigige;. Messrs. J. Webb and W. Elkins were elected secretary and trea- surer respectively, and a committee of ten persons was formed. The Rev. \V. Lea. brother of Lady Scourfield ,gave a lucid account of the successful working of a similar institution in h;3 parish, for which he was moat deservedly thanked. Mr. Lea kindly contributed a secre- tarial equipment to the Club, to wit, teceipt, subscription, minute and visitors' books, pens,, inks, etc., together with a few games. Mr. Webb proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Sir Owen and Lady Scoureld for their very kind thought and great generosity to the parish. The Rev. W. L. Stubbs appropriately seconded, and Messrs. M. Lucas and W. Elkins supported. Needless to say, the vote was unanimously and most enthusiastically accorded. The me" ing received a gift from Mr. J. 7tones, of Sardis, of a drum containing five gallons of oil, with much applause.

COODWiCK Exodus.—Tho exodus from Goodwick and dis- trict over Christmastide was very considerable, but by no means reached the record established in previous years, this fact being probably attributable to the growth in the number of inhabited houses and the establishment of local hometies. Tho district presented, too, an ani- home ties. The district presented, too, an ani- absentees being counter-balanced by visitors who cherished a warm corner in their heart for the quandam village. Christmas Traffic.—The passenger traffic in both directions has been exceptionally heavy this Yuletide, testifying unmistakably to the growing popularity of the new route. The parcels traffic has also shown a marked in- crease, breaking all previous records. The cattle consignments were naturally at their zenith earlier in the year, and it is not antici- pated that any noticeable revival therein will occur until either February or March. Neither the cargo or the Cork boat ran on Saturday- night. Saturday Smoker. In consequence of the absence of so many residents upon holidays the customary we&kly gatherings at the Glen- dower Hall did not take place on Boxing Day. but these successful series of functions will be resumed on Saturday next, when it is anticipated that there will be a large assemb- lage, i including, probably, several formal resi- dents who are spending the festive season in the locality. The "special" programme which was to have been submitted on this occasion is unavoidably postponed to a future date, Mr. A. Richardson, upon whom devolves the whole of the organisation, together with the financial responsibility, not having yet been able to complete the arrangements. Hockey. Goodwick journeyed on Saturday to Neyland. where they figured in an important fixture before a large crowd, and had to ac- knowledge defeat by five goals to two. In view of the fact that their opponents placed two county players upon the field, the visitors are to be congratulated upon having put up so plucky a stand against long odds.—On Saturday Goodwick will entertain Dewsland, the venue being the Parrog. St. Peter's Church.—The services on Christ- mas Day at St. Peter's Church began wih a celebration of Holy Communion at o,30 the Rev. J. Jenkins being the celebrant. Morning service began at 11 a.m., followed by Holy • Communion, the celebrant on this occasion being the Rev. E. Lincoln Lewis (vicar), as- sisted by the Rev. J. Jenkins, who preached an appropriate sermon to a large congregation. In the evening the "Story of the Nativity" was given, illustrated by lantern slides, manipulated by the Rev. J. C. Beynon, which were greatly appreciated. The Church, as usual, was most tastefully decorated by the following ladies:— Mr. and Miss Davies, Siriole; Lady Owen, Miss Bowen, Rose Cottage; Miss Godman, Court House; Nurse Bowen, Brooklyn, etc. Flowers for tne altar were supplied by Mr. Lincoln Lewis, and two large crosses made of holly, were sent by Mr. Moneypenny, and a large contribution of evergreens came from Mr. and Mrs. Johns, of Manorowen. Manorowen.—The Services at this Church on Christmas Day were held as follows:—At 11 a.m. there was morning service and Holy Com- munion, when the Rev. J. C. Beynon celebrated and gave an impressive address. At 6.30 p.m. there was an evening service, when the Rev. 3'. Jenkins occupied the pulpit. The Church was beatifuliy decorated by Mr. Nicholas, the Misses Williams (Cnwcsandy), Mr. Brown, etc. Con- tribut'ons of flowers, etc., were kindly supplied this year again by the family of Manorowea. Watch-night Service.—Next Thursday evening being the last evening in the Old Year, a watch-night service will, be held in St. Peter's Church, Goodwick, which will commence 3. 11.33 p.m. Vagrants at the Brick Works.—The new brick- works at Dyffryn have become a favourite haun* of the vagrant class, the heat exuded .from the. kilns proving very welcome during the bitterly cold nights, which are characteristic of this season of the year. So exceptional have been the amount of unwelcome patronage bestowed upon the company that its directors have found it necessary to comPlain to the police, with the result that, on Monday morning, William Granton, of jTeath, and James Griffiths, of Swansea, was charged at the Fishguard Police Station with sleeping cut at the brick works without being in possession of visible means of subsistence. Evidence in support of the allegation was given by Constable Evans, and the justices (Messrs. T. G. Bennett and B. G. Llewellyn) sent prisoners to gaol for seven day? with hard labour.

r DlNAS CROSS. Gideon.—A literary gathering took place at this place of worship on Christmas Day, when the pastor (Rev. W. Glynfab Williams) presided over a crowded and appreciative auditory. An excellent programme, which embraced several parts in character, was submitted, and the audience manifested in no uncertain fashion its appreciation of the good rave provided for its delectation. The following, amongst other persons, pariicfpfteS:—Miss May Harries, Miss- M. J.. Morris. Mr;.?. Rowlands, Miss M. Jones, Miss M. A. Evans, Mr. J. Evans, Miss R. Evans, Mr. John J (;:IS, Miss Annie Rowlands. Miss Eliza -ionos, Mr. Edward Jones, Miss Josepha Mrs. Evans, Miss Mag. Williams, Miss Rebecca Jone3, Mr. John James Evans, and Miss Enid Dyfed.

';r_rl'" -==:==- CE;EJAP PREPAID ADVER- TISSMENT3, Our Prepaid Scale. ONE 1HREE 8IX Insertion. Inssrta.Inssrta. IS K da or ecser. Is. ad. P3. Cd. 3s. 8d. Iii. ù. 23. 7d. 4s. 7d. I IS Is. ed. Ea. 3d. | •Attd on at rate of 3d- rat ssvea words o» First Ir^srtien, And Hf.if-prica subaa- ,:r:.1r:.t con3«oai:ve inaartionB. TiK'ir, charges apply only to the following alssse^ of advertisements if prepaid:—Situa- tions Vacant or Waited, To be Let, Apart- m-<tota Wanted and To Let, Houses 2nd other Prsn>is83 to be Let, Specific Articles for Bale. 'Ar^cls^, Sheep, etc., Logt. and Found, aU Miscellaneous Want*. Unless paid for in advance the credit rate of double the •faovs will be charged -_0 TCiantefc WANTED, now or end of threshing season, a thoroughly reliable second-hand trac- tion engine from 6 to 8 h.p.—Apply with full particular.? and terms, in writing, to "Farmer," c/o "Guardian Office, Haverfordwest. 3jal WAN -iii) at once, experienced general Servant, lit*. Trevor Jones, Pembroke Street, Psmbroka Dock.—Apply to General." "County Guarcian Office, Meyric-k Street. Pembroke Doe: ijal jfor Bale. GUI-t FOR SALE (BARGAIN).—DOUBLE ¡ ') -0T.-r BREECH-LOADER, quite new. warranted sound. 12-bore, central tire, top lever, rebound- ing locks, left-choke barrel, pistol grip stock, ¡ extension rib, approval 38s.—Sports- man, 13, Newcastle Street, Merthyr. 6ja8 AUTOMATIC MACHINES (id. and id.), of every description for sale. Suitable to publicans and others. The only establishment in West Wales.—Apply, Cambrian Automatic Company, 10, Alexandra Arcade, Swansea. 4ja8. FOR 8s. 8d. POST FREE. TRY a Pair of our Gents Real Box Calf -3- Leather Lined Bal Boots, the best in the United Kingdom at the price, direct from H. C. MAY, Boot Factor. Belmont, Surrey. 6jal5. Xost. OST, on Friday last, between Fishguard and Mathry a Trap Seat. Finder re. warded.—Apply, Watkins, butchers, St. David's. 3ja8. 3for Sale or XCo 1et. TO LET in good Locality, two or three -L Furnisher. Rooms; part garden, if de- ired; rent moderate; no attendance.—Apply 397, Office of this Paper. 3ja8 ——a—mm*———mmmm—— farms an& bouses XLo Xet. TO BE LET, Portclew House, containing 4 re- ception rooms, 8 bedrooms, 3 dressing rooms, bath-room (h. & c.) tennis courl furnished or tin- furnished with or without garden.—Apply Miss Morison, Portclew House, Lamphey, S.O. mr20— TO LET, Cottage with large Garden, 12. castle Street. Lower Pennar.—Apply, 34, Waterloo, Pembroke Dock. 3jal5 Shipping notices. SOUTH AFRICA ROYAL M-&.IL ROUTE tO UNION CASTLE LINE.—London nd Southampton. To Cape Colony, Natal, Delag >a Bay, Beira. etc., calling frequently at Madeira, Las Palmas, Teneriffe, Ascension, St. Helena, and Ljbito Bay. Weekly Sailings. Fast pass- ages. Superior Accommodation. Best Route. For Rates c? Passage Money and all further information apply to the Managers: Dr>NALD CURRIE & CO., London, or to Locai \.8eihs>. mytf-fcir Musical instalments. IF YOU WANT A PIANO or OR^AN do not bp persuaded by any interested person to ptrcha?e nntii Ton have ascertained the extra- ordirary vnine we are offering. Yen will save many pounds be most liberally treated, and get the possible terras by purchasing from 11. —DUCK, SON. & Pinker, The Great. Piano Merchants, fnltnay Bridj*?, Bath. Catalogue and book cf advice this paper. Onr tunem visic this district and ail parts of South W ales at regular intervals—send us a post card and shall t1a.U. 19n.p52 WE BRING THE RIGHT PEOPLE TOGETHER When yen Vi3.ût to buy anything, sell anything or exchange any- thing when YCti Yiar. t to find a situation or an employee, or let a house, advertise in the classified columns of this journal. The three or four lines you insert may be scanned by just the people you want to rea.ch-people you would find difficulty in reaching any othar way. I I lines, 3 insertions, 23. County Guardian" £100 FREE INSURANCE (Applicablo only within the United Kingdom). SPECIALLY GUARANTEED BY THE BLjfSGOllI JBS0IUW8E CfififflMTiOH, LIMITED. 10.J, West George Straet. Glasgo%f. A. REGINALD POLE, General Manager. To whom Notice of Claim, under the follow- ing Conditions, must be sent in case of injury Death within seven days after the accident. | pa^ t':18 above Cor- poratlon to the legal represen- tative of any one who is killed by an accident to the passsnger-train. in which the deceased was travelling as a ticket-bearing or fare-paying passenger. season ticket-holder, or trader s ticket-holder, or who shall have been fatally injured thereby (should death Tesult within seven days aiter such accident). Should such accident not prove fatal, but cause within the same period of seven days the loss of two limbs (both arms or both legs, jt one of each, by actual separation above the wrk-.tr or ankle), the person injured shall be entitled to receive £100, or for the loss of one limb under the aforesaid conditions, £50; and .should such person meet with an injury caused by an accident as above defined which shall not prove fatal as aforesaid, but which of itself shall totally prevent him or her from. following his or her occupation, then the above Qoroo'atiou will pay to such person £1 per "'U'i'ifi sH:iL disablement, but in no case for more* than ten weeks for any one accident. P^tOVDE11) that 1—8 oerson so killed or 1m- jured'had up*II hi* cr her person, this ticket with his or her usual signature, written m ink prior to the accident, on the space provided oelow, which, together with the giving of notice within the time as hereinbefore mentioned, is of the essence of this contract. This insurance holds good for the current week of issue only. Rail way servants travelling with & pass or ticket in an ordinary passenger compartment of a passenger train can hold this Coupon In- surance Ticket. No can recover under more than one Coupon-Insurance Ticket guaranteed by the Corporation, in respect of the same accident. Signature —• Coupon expires at midcjUfct on Friday, January 8th, 25C9. _õV,T_ EBusiness HODreases. ) v t IV' XMAS" HAMPERS. &¿"" Acknowledged to be the Best in the Market. No, 4 £ 1 1 0 No. 5 £ 15 0 1 Bottle "Excelsior" Extra Special Scotch. 2 Bottles Martinez Choice Old Port. 1 "Pearl" Extra Special Irish. 2 "Excelsior" Extra Special Scotch. 1 „ Choice Old Per: 1 V,.S.O.P. Liqueur Cognac. 1 Fine Sherry. 1 Heidseck's Champagne. 1 „ V.S.O.P. Liqueur Cognac. 1 Champagne (Sparkling Hook or Moselle). No. 7 51 10 0 No. 8 22 2 0 3 Bottles Choice Old Port. 3 Bottles Martinez Choice Old Port. 1 Fine Sherry. 2 Fine Sherry. 1 Finest *Cognae. 3 "Excelsior" Extra Special Scotch. 1 Finest London Gin. 1 "Pearl" Exra Special Irish. 3 "Excelsior" Extra Special Scotch. I V.S.O.P. Liqueur Cognac. 3 Claret. 2 Champagne (Hy. Goulet). Assortments of equal value will be substituted to suit convenience of customers. Kf\1 ,:hj! t.1 I t MARGRAVE B. ROS LLANELLY COMMERCE HOUSE, Ltd., Are now showing in all Departments LATEST NOVELTIES FOR AUTUMN AND WINTER SEASONS The DRESSMAKINC DEPARTMENT is now under the charge of a highly qualiiied Loudon Fitter who for several years acted as Head Dressmaker to the Army and Navy Stores, and also to Peter Robinson, Ltd. We guarantee Correct Style, Perfect Fit and Finish, and at extremely Moderate Prices. The MILLINERY DEPARTMENT is fully stocked with the choicest specimens of French and English Millinery, Flowers, Feathers, &c. This Department is under new and capable manage- ment and we will be pleased to shew New Styles and to copy and adapt to any individual taste. COSTUMES, MANTLES, COATS, BLOUSES, &c., in great variety. We are making a special feature of FURS. We hold a magnificent stock, and are confident we can give the utmost satis- faction. The DRESS DEPARTMENT is replete with the latest productions in correct Materials, and we also have a very fine range of NEWEST r). TRIMMINGS in all shades to match the new coloarings. GLOVES, HOSIERY, BELTS, NECKWEAR, LACE GOODS, &c., in endless variety. Charming assortment of Childrens Millinery, Costumes, dc. Z;) Everything in Household Linen, Eider Downs, Winter Cut tains, Blankets, Flannels, &c., &c. Post Orders receive prompt and careful attention. o: COMMERCE HOUSE, Ltd., HAVERFORDWEST. I I CENTRAL OFFICES—0LD BRIDGE, Haverfordwest Telegraphic. Address: "Guardian. H'weat." Telephone No. 14, Post Office. Branch Offices: Pembroke Dock, Fishguard, and Solva.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES (PER POST). 3 months ls. 8cL 6 months. 3s. 3d. 12 months 8s. 6d. —

LETTERSTON. Wedding. The wedding took place Saturday (Boxing Day) at St. Lawrence Parish Church of Mr. Thomas Cumber, of Milford, and Miss Elizabeth Lamb, of Stone Hall Cottage, Wolfs- castle. The Rev. John Bowen, Rector, officia- ted. Solfa.—The following candidates hae been lately. exaniine(I by the Rev. P. D. Morse, G. ahd L.T.S.C., and have obtained the under- mentioned certificates :-Elementary, Miss 01- wen, Jones, Mr. Ceredig Jones; Theory of | Honours, Mr. Tom Stephens; Second Grade j Staff Notation, Mr. J. P. Walters. Saron.—Successful literary and competitive meetings were held at Saron Baptist Chapel on Christmas Day, afternoon and evening. The afternoon meeting was very sparsely attended, but the evening meeting pfbved an attraction to a large audience. The respected pastor, Rev. B. Thomas, conducted the proceedings in his usual tactful manner. The adjudicators were: Music, Mr. W. D. Evans, L.T.S.C., Solva; liter- ature, Rev. Ifan Davies, Llangloffan; prize bags, Mrs. Thomas, Cleddau House, and Mrs. Phillips, Hen Eglwys, all of whom performed their respective duties with credit. The accom- panist was Miss Myfanwy Davies, Llangloffan. The secretarial duties were ably carried out by Mr. J. D. Phillips, Hen Eglwys, who deserves praise for the measure of success attained. The piano for the occasion was kindly lent by Mr. T. Richards, tailor. The proceeds were de- voted to the building fund of the new vestry. The Season. The festive season was this year attended by the real old-time weather. Fros set in just on the eve of Christmas day, and the elements have increased in severity ever since. Though the prevalence of a depth of about two inches of snow is in no way un- seasonable at this time of the year, the effects of the sudden change will undoubtedly be acutely felt by man and beast. The unusual mildness of the weather up to within a week of Christmas has been strikingly marked. Nat- ure was almost in its bloom up to very recently. Evidence of this is gathered from the fact that two Letterstonians picked some wild ripe straw- berries about a week ago in the vicinity of Letterston Railway Station. The fruit appeared as though it had only just reached its ripened state. Another instance is the fact that only last Saturday a rose was picked at Sealyham. There are other instances where young trees are to be seen sprouting. These may be signs of hard weather instore, and it seems as though we are just having the foretaste.

LIBERAL THREE HBNBRB5.I MEETING AT HAYERF03E- WEST. Speeches by Lord St. Davids and The County Member. A meeting of the members of the Liberal Three Hundred for Pembrokeshire, which was formally dissolved prior to the Bye-election in July last, was held on Wednesday at Bethesda Schoolroom, Haverfordwest, for the purpose of reviving the Association. The meeting was called for 1.30, and notwithstanding the severe weather there was a fairly large gathering of members. Dr. Griffith was voted to the chair, ana amongst those present were Lord St. David's, Mr. Walter F. Roeh, M.P. for Pembrokeshire, Mr. C. F. Egerton Allen, Mr. E. H. James (Pontygafel), Mr. Isaiah Reynolds (Mayor of Haverfordwest), Mr. George Cole (Milford Haven), Mr. W. T. Davies (Haverfordwest*, Mr. George Thomas (Bicton), Mr. H. W. Evans (Solva), Mr. S. J. Watts Williams (St. David's), Mr. T. G. Lewis (Wistou), Mr. O. D. Jones (Fish- guard), Mr. John George (Hasguard), etc. The Chairman said he could assure them he felt very happy to be there that day. (Hear, hear). Although they were not a large num- ber, the size of the gathering, considering the weather, was eloquent testimony to the vitality of the Liberal cause in the County. (Hear, hear). He was pleased to see amongst them a gentleman who had been with them for many years, and who, as their member, was largely responsible for the flourishing condition in which they were as a political organisation. He referred to Lord St. David's. (Applause). This was the first time they had met him since his elevation to the Peerage. They had known him as Lord St. David's, and although they were proud of the City from which his lordship took his title, it was as Mr. Wynford Philipps he would be fondly remembered by them. They also had their new member there for the first time. (Applause). No one could say but what they made an excellent choice when they selected Mr. Roch as their nember. (Hear, hear). He had done a great deal of harm since he had been a member. (Laughter). No doubt he had been true to his principles, but at the same time they did not like to kill their opponents, and Mr. Roch had killed the Tory Party in Pembrokeshire. (Loud laughter and applause). They had paid off their officials and had deprived them of their bread and cheese. (Laughter). He did not think that they could do better that day than make a collection for the poor men who had been thrown out of work. not through their own fault, but through the fault of Mr. Roch in winning such a vic- tory. (MOTe laughter). The Chairman then paid a high tribute to Mr. John George's work as a contributory cause of their success, and ex- pressed the pleasure of all present at seeing him there amongst them once more. (Ap- plause). OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE RE-ELECTED. The Chairman explained the object of the meeting and said their first duty was to resuscitate the Three Hundred by electing a President. Mr. S. J. Watts Williams proposed Mr. H. Seymour Allen be re-elected President. Lord St. David's seconded, and the Chair- man heartily supported. The motion was carried unanimously. The Chairman said he always thought a change of olficial3 was desirable, and he was quite prepared to support any other gentleman who was nominated for the chairmanship. This must not be taken as an indication that he in any way relaxed his efforts in the Liberal cause. He was more than a Liberal to-day; he was a Radical of the first water—(laughter and ap- plause)— and did not mind who knew it. Mr. W. T. Davies proposed the Doctor's re- election; Mr. George Thomas (Bicton) seconded, and it was carried unanimously. The Chairman 'reiterated his belief that a change was beneficial, but since they had re- elected him he was quite prepared to act and would devote himself more than ever to the interests of the party. (Applause). They had done what they could in this county for their political principles by returning Mr. Roch by a majority of over 2,000. (Applause). Soon af- ter the election he met a gentleman from Bir- mingham who told him that in that city hun- dreds of people awaited the result of the elec- tion in Pembrokeshire and there was as much excitement over it as over any election. They were, the Chairman contended, Liberals of back bone, and they felt they could only succeed if those measures which had been proposed were carried through. Some people blamed the Government for not being able to carry out certain measures, but he was proud of them for what they had done. (Applause). He did not want to abuse any House that day—(laugh- ter)-becalise they had a representative amongst them, but he would say that the sooner the greater part of the members of the House of Lords were turned out the better. (Laughter and applause). Of course, he did not include, in that number their noble friend there, but to have Bills passed by large majorities and then for them to be thrown out by noble'loras was a disgrace to the country. (Applause). They were called "noble" lords, but he did not think many of them were noble. (Laughter). Many of them were interested parties; they were interested in breweries, and it other people voted on matters whiche oncerned them per- sonally, in the way the Lords did, they would very soon be called to book. He hoped Lord St. David's would be heard in the House of Lords very often, and he had already spoken several times. He hoped his lordship would be one of the leading spirits there, the same as in the House of Commons, Mr. Lloyd George, a Welshman and a Pembrokeshire man was the leading spirit. (Laughter and applause). L>r. Griffith went on to say that there was one Bill in particular which they as Welshmen were calling out for, and that was the Disestablish- ment Bill. (Applause). They ought to take it up there that day and make their views known. If there was anything that ought to be free it was religion. He did not think religion should be attached to the State; he thought too highly of it, and ho believed that if the Church were disestablished it would succeed better than it did now. If people only took an interest in their own church they would not only be in favour of Disestablishment but also of Disen- dowment as well. (Applause). On the motion of Mr. H. W. Evans, seconded by Mr. George Cole, the committees were re- elected until the next annual meeting. LAND VALUES. A letter was read from Mr. Allgood, Cardiff, on behalf of the United Committee for Taxa- tion of Land Values, stating that that organisa- tion was desirous of holding a national con- vention of Welsh people in Cardiff, probably during February. The movement was non-poli- tical and the co-operation of this Association was sor.ght. Mr. Walter Roch proposed that a resolution, be passed approving of the object of the Con- ference, asking Mr. George to render all the as- si-stance in his power, and that any member of the Three Hundred who wished to attend the Conference should do so. Mr. O. D. Jones said he would second if cer- tain members were definitely appointed to at- tend. Lord St. David's suggested that those who wished to go should give their names to Mr. George, who would forward them. In the end, however, the following were nominated and consented to attend:—The Clair- man, Mr. Isaiah Reynolds, Mr. 0, D. Jones, Mr. George Thomas. Mr. W. T. Davies, Mr. Bowen (St. Ishmael's), Mr. LI. Rees, C.C., and Mr. Arthur Davies (Goodwick). NOTICE OF MOTION. j Mr. LI. Rees gave notice of motion for the next meeting to extend the basis of representa- tion on the association from three per hun- dred to five per hundred. He thought this would bring in many who were now anxious to take part, and the more they could enlist in active work the better. (Hear, hear). SPPECH BY MR. ROCH. The Chairman said the last time they met they had a candidate; now they had their mem- ber. (Applause). He now called upon Mr. Roch to address the meeting. Mr. Walter Roch, who was loudly applauded, said they were met that afternoon for the first time since the bye-election, and His first duty was the very pleasant one of thanking all the members of the Three Hundred most heartily and sincerely for the encouraging work and splendid services at the recent election. With- out their help and tho holp of a larger bony of workers outside the Three Hundred their success, with all the forces they had against them, would have been quits impossible. They were met almost at the close ef one year and very near the beginning of another. And so he might taka the opportunity of saying 2. few words upop. the chief measures which had been passed into law during the year, and take a look ¡ at their prospects for the coming year. The first and perhaps the greatest measure they had passed was the Old Age Pensions Act. (Ap- A plause). It was not too much to say that it was the greatest measure of social reform that had been passed by any Government, since the repeal of the Corn Laws. In our own county over a thousand men and women would draw an old age pension for the first time— an old age pension, not as a charity or as poor law relief with all the disqualification it brings, but as some return for their service to the State. (Applause). They must also bear in mind that this scheme would also mean a wel- come reduction in the poor rate. The inmates of the workhouse were chiefly old men and women who would gene-rally in future be main- tained at home. It would also mean that over £13,000 would be brought into the County an- nually, not to be spent at Monte Carlo—(laugh- ter)—but at ail the shops throughout the county and in other ways that would benefit the com munity at large. No doubt there were cases of hardship under the Act. Those now in re- ceipt of poor law relief were disqualified, but the Government were under an absolute pledge to remedy that in 19.11 at the latest, and he thought it was quite possible pressure would be brought to bear upon them to remedy it at an earlier date than that. There was another hardship, and that was in the case of men who had provided for themselves through a friendly society or a pension scheme in connection with their employment. If. their income exceeded £31 per year they were shut out. And he could not help thinking that those people who had made some effort for their old age should, when the scheme was revised, be borne in mind and not shut out because of their forethought. (Applause). There seemed to be some doubt among people whether the Government had the money to pay for these pensions. Well, he thought "Sufficient unto the day was the evil thereof." (Laughter). He had no doubt that when the Budget was produced nelt March no one would be able to throw it in their teeth that they had not the money. When they con- sidered that in the last ten years the income tax had gone up by 250 millions—and that in a poor little ruined Free Trade country—(laughter)— the Chancellor of the Exchequer would not have much difficulty in finding a few millions for old age pensions. They had not heard the last. word about these pensions. The scheme was certain to be developed .next year in the direction of infirmity pensions. (Hear, hear). Ho could give them instances which had come under his personal notice. In this county his attention had been called to three cases of working men dying and leaving families behind. They could all realise what an almost impossible struggle confronted that family. Tho idea was that there should be placed with- in the reach of every man by insurance the provision for evil days 01 sickness or death, so that thoso left behind should, at all events, feel that the strong hand of the State was ready to help them. (Applause). But even as it stood, the Act was one of the greatest things they could have done, and it was greatest with all its possibiltes for the future. If the Liber- al Government had only done this it would stand out greatly to their credit, and as some- thing which it was well worth while returning them to accomplish. (Applause). When he passed to land reform he was afraid they could not quite congratulate themselves upon a real land Bill. It was almost idle to talk about a veal land Bill so long as there was a House of Lords. (Laughter). No doubt another per- son who would follow him would justify their action. (Laughter). But he would call their attention to one Act which, passed in 1906, would only come into force in 1909. That was the Agricultural Holdings Act of 1906. It was not a great or heroic measure. But it was not a bad start, and it would be a great help to many of our large farmers. It was something toward fixity of tenure, and if a farmer re- ceived notice for any other reason than bad farming he would be entitled to compensation for disturbance; he was entitled to compensa- tion for forced sale of stock and crops, etc., and for the removal of his effects to another farm. It would be a deal of help to many of those who got notice when a farm was sold. It would enable him to sow what crops he liked and also to get his necessary repairs done. It was a small measure, but one which the large tenant farmers would derive some benefit from. There was another Act which had been passd and that dealt with Small Holdings. He thought it was one which should be worked with great advantage to many people. It was divided under two heads. There was the power given to Parish Councils to provide al- lotments up to five acres, and ono could not help feeling that this Act might be freely used to provide people with land. If the Parish Councils could not acquire land by arrangement they had power to go to the Board of Agricul- ture and obtain it compulsorily. Then the County Councils had the power of taking up small holdings. That was coming into working order at last; he understood the Pembrokeshire County Council was making some progress to- ward it. He might, perhaps, remind the Chair- man of the County Council that if they did not hurry up there was the Board of Agriculture with a big stick behind them. (Laughter and applause). But there was one feature of the Act which had .not attracted much attention. There were many small freeholders in this county, and many of them had borrowed the bulk of the money to purchase their holdings. He saw no reason why, under this Act, if they felt the pressure was more than they could bear, they should not sell the farm to the County Council on the understanding that they should be continued as tenants. That would give them capital to work the farm to better advantage. It would give them just the same security in their little holding as if they were freeholders. He could not help thinking that if these people went to the County Council they would find it of great benefit in helping them work their farm. (Hear, hear). The last sees. ion was, unfortunately to a large extent wasted. They were able to carry one measure that might b3 of some benefit, and that was the Eight Hours Bill. It was not what they should have like to have seen, because it was subject to the mangling process. But it gave six hours more of daylight per week for those who worked underground. He would remind them that Lord St. David's was the first member who ever intro- duced a Miner's Eight Hours Bill into the House. (Applause). When he reflected that that was 20 years ago, and when he thought what a small measure it really was, it didn't make him despair of carrying anything in the future; if they only waited long enough, perhaps they would be able to carry something else. (Laugh- ter). As to the Licensing Bill it was a real measure of reform. Its fate was settled at a private house, at a private meeting of great noblemen—("shame")—and when it came to the House of Lords it was not given even the benefit of a prover discussion. But there was no need for them to lose heart. The last word had not been said upon licensing reform, and it might be that the Budget would be a good step in the direction toward which this Licens- ing Bill was moving, and in almost a similar way. He thought a graduated scale of licens- ing taxation would mean a great reduction in the number of licensed houses. He thought too, they had some prospects of getting a Bill through which would regulate clubs, shorten the hours of opening, and bring about Sunday clos- ing. and they might get that through the Upper House. Some people had said that no great Licensing Reform Bill would be tackled by the Liberal Goernment again. But he did not agree with that at all. The question was bound to be dealt with, and no Government could avoid it. As to the future, the great question was Disestablishment. (Applause), in spite of what some people had said, he could see no reason whatever why this should not occupy almost the most prominent place in the next King's Speech. They had had the Prime Minis- ter's absolute pledge given to a Welsh deputa- tion. He did not think Mr. Asqv.ith was a man to depart from his word. He thought they covld rely upon the Prime Minister, upon the Welsh members, and upon the rank and file- He thought they could say that if there wa? any shirking on this question the whole country would have something to say. For'the present they could trust the Government, but they could also remember Cromwell's famous advice to "keep your powder dry." (Hear, hear, ana applause). But there was a more important struggle before them, and that was the ques- tion of the House of Lords. (Applause). What was its record. It killed an Education Bill in the first year of this Government. It had killed a Licensing Bill, two Scotch Land Bills, a Valuation Bill for England and Wales, and a Plural Voting Bill, giving one man one vote. No measure of reform could ever pass through the House of Lords unscathed. The Old Age Pensions Act ,was allowed to pass because it was part of the Budget, which could only be dealt with as a whole. When they considered that record they must come to the conclusion that the HonscoÎ Lords was the great stumbling block the Democracy had to facc in thia coun- 1 try. (Applause). As long as it existed in its I present form a Liberal Government was faced with an impossible task. But they wanted a little clearer lead—(hear, hear)—a more definite pronouncemcut.. They did not want any more Liberal "War Cries," but a real declaration of war. (Applause). Do not let them think that bhis would simply be a light against hereditary rule. It was often said that the House of Lords had no ability. TlJat was a great mistake. The House of Lords had men of the greatest ability in every rank. But it stood for property and vested interests. It was property, property, all property that the House of Lords stood for, and the people's light II uuld be against all monop- one? such as those of the land. The future would be fought upon Budgets more than upon other reform. The next Budget might be of sac h a drastic nature that the House of Lords might venture to throw it out. Then would come tho greatest opportunity a Liberal Govern- ment had ever had. Tho fight of Democracy in the luture would be more for a fairer distri- bution of wealth and for a complete civil and religious equality. No one outside the Cabinet could tell how coon that fight would be. But the sooner it came the better. (Applause). The only thing they could do was to put their house in order to keep their swords very sharp. Who- ever was chosen to fight their battle here would find many hundreds of the best workers and best Liberals in the country fighting shoulder to shoulder and whole-heartedly for im. (Loud applause). LORD ST. DAVID'S SPEAKS. Lord St. David's, who was very cordially re- ceived on rising, remarked that someone had said at the beginning that the meeting was a small one. He did not think so. He knew that the previous morning he was near telegraphing to Mr. Roch suggesting that he sould telegraph to Mr. George t-o send all over the country and put the meeting off, because he thought they would not get a dozen There. He was only pre- vented from doing so because he was told that the telegraph wires were down. (Laughter). He thought it was extraordinary that the members had met in such force that day. It only showed to his mind how much stronger Liberalism was getting in this country year by year..Looking back, he remembered when the late Lord Ken- sington used to be in the chair. He had been there in times of great political excitement when he had not seen nearly as large and re- presentativ gathering as was there that day. (Applause). There was another thing he wanted to say about (Liberalism in this county. He had always told them that he was quite certain that in the county of Pembroke Liberalism was getting stronger year by year. They would have sea-saws in every movement; sometimes a little stronger and wnw times a little weaker. But there would be an upward tendency. And that was what they saw here. Some people said that when they were starting out to fight an election they were going to do magnificently. He never did that because he could never see the sense of being a false prophet unless they did not intend being in the same place again. And as he intended being in the same place again he never said anything more than that Liberalism was getting stronger year by year. the last election show that? At the last election they were hot fighting the Tory organi- saion in this county, and they knew that as well as he did. He did not know whether that organisation existed to-day or not, but even when it did exist and did its best, to them in that room it was nothing at all. (Ap- plause). They need not think about it or look at it, but could let them amuse the children in a corner. (Laughter and applause). But last time they were not fighting the Tory Organisation in Pembrokeshire, but all the or- ganisations throughout Great Britain. (Ap- plause). All of them came down here to show that Wales had changed its mind about Dis- establisment, and they knew the result. (Ap- plause). When the world knew what the Liber- al Three Hundred of Pembrokeshire could do against all the Tory organisations of Great Britain, he did not wonder that the Tories had dissolved their organisation. Why was it they (the Liberals) were getting so strong? For one thng it was because they believed in their creed, and secondly because they worked for their creed. They did not begin again one year and go off another year. but went on year after year hammering away, and that was why they got stronger and stronger. And they were getting stronger because they were able to look on a record of work accomplished. Mr. Roch had spoken of the Old Age Pension -Act. Did they think they would need to canvass much for Liberalism in Pembrokeshire when that Act had been in force six months ? People some- times asked of what good is politics to the poor? Go to the old people in all their villages the week after next and say "Has Liberalism done any good to you?" (Applause). Liberal- ism and its work in the last session would never be forgotten while Britain endured as a power. It was one of the things our children would look back upon as an achievement of their .forefathers. (Applause). Mr. Roch had told them that in some things the Liberal Party had met forces too great for it, especially in the matter of licensing. He (the noble lord) was afraid that was the case, and he only realised how weak Liberalism was in the House of Lords when he found that every temperance association in Wales sent their petitions in favour of the Licensing Bill to him as the only person in Wales they knew. (Laughter and ap- plause). It was rather an evidence of the weak- ness of the land there, but ne was very glad to present the petitions, although in one day alone he had to introduce 317. (Laugter). But, as their member had indicated, there were several ways of killing a cat without drowning her in cream. This year the brewers had the cream—but next year they would have the Budget—(laughter)—that, of course, had nothing to do with him, but he hoped it would have something to do with their member. Mr. Roch had said the Lords might throw out the Budget. It was possible, but did they think the Budget the Lords would like to throw out was the Budget that would provide the money' for Old 1-ge Pensions 1 The Tories told them they would never get the money for these pensions, but they had it up to next March, and then they had to find many more millions. He knew theirs was a very capable Welshman looking after that. (Applause). And if the brewers did not have to find a good share of it, he thought the House of Commons would be very much to blame. (Applause). They had just passed a resolution in favour of taxation of land values, and that was the only other point he wished to say a word about that day. The noble lord than went on to explain the meaning of the proposal. It was not, he said, the taxation of land, but of land values, which was a very different thing. It was originally proposed by Mr. Henry George, who wanted them to get at the natural value of the land and tax that. That was a very different thing from the value of the land as we knew it. Mr. Henry George especially exempted from the tax any value which had been given to the land by the land- owner or his predecessor in title. This meant that in estimating the natural value of a farm they would exclude all buildings, roads, foot- paths, fences, drains, and all planted trees. When they came to do that he thought they would agree with him that if the Government were to put a tax upon land values—upon the natural value of the land—they would find that it was not a tax'that would weigh disadvan- tageously upon agricultural land in this eoun-I try. But what they wanted to get at by means: of this tax was the value of land which no landowner had given to it, the value which had been given to it by the efforts of others. (Applause). Take for instance land in the heart of London. A small plot of land would have a very large value. What had given it that value? Nothing the landlord had ever done. They would take the value of the build- ing, and then the great value of the land, b0- austA it was in the heart of a great population. What had given it that value? Not the land- owner, but the fact that six millions of people were living round it, r;qeezing for room. It was that value—which was not a value the land originally had, but -the value given to it by the efforts and work, or by the necessity of existence of other men—that vas the value which the Liberal party said ought to be taxed, and taxed heavily. (Applause). He wanted them all to know that in every single thing where he could help the Liberal party in Pem- brokeshire—(applause)—he was at their disposal as much as he ever was before. (Renewed ap- plause). At the last election, the contest had not been on three days before he was longing to be down there, and in the thick of it again. (Applause). He was extremely sorry that there were conventions which made that absolutely impossible. But during the many years he was in the House of Commons he was terribly handicapped by the fact that he was not strong enough to stand the long hours, He simply could not do it. It was one long struggle day after day. Now he had a place where, at any rate, the hours were very much easier—/great laughter) —— Mr. I. Reynolds: We will shorten them again for you. (More loughter). Lord St. Davids, continuing, said there was something in that, and he would not appeal against it when the time came. (Laughter). But in any way he could help them in that eov ty, his services and his interest were as j ruuih at their disposal as during all the years ( -—————-——————— '=. he had been living amr.gst them. (Loud a plause). 1 The Chairman: I am ghd Lord St. Davids has placed himself at our disposal, because he will often receive our orders—(laughter)—and there is one order I will give him now, and that is wo shall never consider these meetings com- plete without him. (Laughter and applause). DISESTABLISHMENT-STRONG RESOLUTION. Mr. O. D. Jones said he had been asked to call attention to the question of Disestablish- ment. They were glad to have a pronounce- ment from their member, but after all he was a private member, and it carried them no- further. Some of them felt it was high time this Government should redeem its pledges to Wales. The question had been to the front ever since he could remember, and Wales had returned members in its favour time and again. But so far as they could see they were no nearer the goal now than in 18S3, when Wales first of all pronounced for Disestablishment. He had been asked to move a resolution, urg- ing that the time had come when the Govern- ment should redeem its pledges. Wales had given the- Government such support as it could not expect from any other part of the King- dom; she had sent up stalwarts in every re- sepct. He was glad that Wales was not quiet even in the House of Lords, and that Lord St. Davids was. there to voice their opinion on Social Reform. There was no' other question which touched "W ales so vitally, and the majority at the last election was sufficient guarantee that Wales was of opinion that Dis- establishment was just. He moved—"That this meeting is strongly of opinion that the time has come when the Government should re- deem its pledges to Wales, and forthwith in- troduce a measure of Disestablishment and Disendowment in the House of Commons." George Cole seconded, and thought this meeting should send up a determined word in favour of the subject being mentioned in the King's Speech.. Mr. E. H. James supported. He said he- thought when Mr. Gladstone brought forward the question 20 years ago they would get it, but Gladstone was gone, and they had not got it. He (the speaker) was afraid he would have to go without getting it, and he would be sorry to leave without it. (Laughter}. He hoped they would be unanimous in that reso- lution, and send their greetings to their mem- bers at Westminster, and say if they were not ready to do what their constituents asked them to do they could go about their business; (Laughter). He himself would be ready to. contest the county for Disestablishment at the next election if tho others fought on some- thing else. They would be watching their member in the next session, and would expect him to move in the matter if no one else did. The Chairman quite agred with Mr. James. lie honestly believed that the groat majority for Mr. Roch was upon the question of Dises- tablishment. They had talked about it for years, and the time had come when they should demand t. And he was like Mr. James in haping that he would not have to leave this world without seeing it accomplished. (Laugh- ter). Mr. Roch suggested that the resolution be strengthened by urging file Government to pass the Bill through all its stages in the House of Commons, because there was no doubt it. would be introduced. He thought the time had come when patience ceased to be a virtue (Hear, hear, and applause), and the stronger they made the resolution the better. The suggestion was accepted, and in its altered form the resolution was carried unani- mously. A discussion on Small Holdings will be found reported in another column.