The Aberystwith Observer

THE EDUCATION ACT, It is now evident that the Education Act will be amended on the lines agreed upon between Mr Lloyd-George and the Bishop ol St. Asaph. And the sooner that is done the better. Until the passing of the Education Act of 1870 the great majority of schools were fcnilt and supported by the Church, but cir- cumstances have changed, and many Church- people, including clergymen, now think that the time has come when Churchmen should be relieved of the burden which they have hitherto voluntarily borne. In the borough of Aberystwyth there are two National Schools, which under new conditions can be leased to the county authority for a substantial sum, which, as well as the voluntary subscrip- tions now used for their maintenance, can be devoted to the religious education of the young and other Church work. So far as we know these schools are of no benefit whatever to the Church. The secular education will be as good under the county authority as under the present system, and there would be no difficulty whatever in teaching the catechism, &c., to the children in the Sunday schools.

NEWS AND OBSERVATIONS. ORIGINAL AND SELECTED. Mrs Flora Annie Steel, the well-known authoress, who resides at Talgarth Hall, celibated her birthday on Saturday. We wii.h her many happy returns of the day. Mr Algernon Charles Swinburne, our only poet," completed his sixty-seventh birthday on Tuesday. Mr Swinburne spent some time at Aberystwyth, as the guest of Mr G. E. J. Powell, Nant Eos, some thirty-five years ago. The well-known Welsh writer Allen Raiuc contributes a. short paper on Easter in Wales to the last number of M.A.P." But why does she always represemt Welsh people as using the words thee, thou, thine, dost, &c. ? The words are never nsed in Wales, except by Mr Tobit Evans, and a few other Quakers. Sir Lewis Morris is the latest advocate of the creation of a separate department of State for Wales. He is in favour, it is worth noting, of a separate Welsh Board of Education which shall have its home not at Whitehall, but in Wales. Btit such a Board should, in Sir Lewis Morris's opinion, form a part of a larger scheme of "devolution," including the creation of "a Secretary of State who shall do for Wales what is so well done for Scotland at present." It is significant hew, latterly, we are all turning to Scotland rather than to Ireland for precedents in the steady pursuit of Welsh local self-government. But Sir Lewis Morris is prepared to go further. He would establish a. council of Welsh members of Parliament" to help the Secretary of State in his administrative duties. He would not presumably, object to the addition to such a council of a number of representatives of the county councils. Thus would be formed that national council which Mr Lloyd-George and others have long had in view, and which in administrative matters would act as a sort of Welsh Parliament. This brings us once more to Part III. of the Welsh Procedure Bill, which was discussed in Parliament a few days mek. By pressing for the retention of Part HI. the Welsh members will do much to bring the establishment of a Welsh national council, pf a sort, a step nearer realisation.

AN IDLER'S GOSSIP. I SKIPPING. Skipping is said to be an excellent exercise, and I would like to suggest that the managers of schools should provide a. number of skipping ropes for the use of their children. Many youngsters can dance gracefully. A íffOREHOCSE OF MIRTH. A local writer says that the family photo- graphic album is a. storehouse of mirth for him. Thfere is something in the likenesses that reminds him of primeval savages, of notorious criminals, of human freaks, of crude artistic efforts. But surely he need net tell people outside what the family is like. NEW PATH. I The other day I went for a walk round Penparke and Llanbadarn and noticed that the new path trom the town is progressing. This is likely to become popular, but the old path is good enough for mc.

LOCAL AND DISTRICT THK Militia had a route march on Saturday. THE CHUIICHES.- Special services were held in the churches on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. THE COUNTY SCHOOL. Broke up for the Easter Vacation on Thursday, and reopens on Tuesday, April 20th. BnANcH rosT-oiFtCE.- A branch post-office has been opened at the Misses Bevan's shop, Terrace road. CANADA.—Mr James Vascoe, of Brandon, Manitoba, will visit Aberystwyth, and stay at the Westminster Hotel, on the 13th, when he will ?ive any information respecting Canada. He will also visit Cardigan, Lampeter, Welsh- pool and Bangor. SALE OF PROPERTY.—Last week we announced that Mr Randolph Fear had bought No. 61 Marine terrace for £ 730. He after- wards re-sold it to Mr Owen Owen for £ï80, and has since bought Glo'ster House. FRONGOCH MtNB.—It is with sadness that we announce that the whole of the machinery on this mine will be sold by auction next week. The plant is said to have cost nearly £ 70,000. SALE OF CORPORATION PLANT.- The plant and machinery used in the construction of the promenade extension is to be sold by auction The Town Council are only advertising tht sale in the Liberal papers. THE WEATHER. The tides have been liigl during the week, and the waves have beater with great force against the new promenade The sea washes over the new breakwater as i it were no obstacle whatever. Visitors ar< much interested in the roughness of the sea. JEWELLERY,—For first-class Jewellery, call &c, at thp Shop of Edward Vaughan Rees, Working Lapidary, and Gold and Silver Smith 2, King Street, near the College. Repairs on the shortest notice. CANTATA. A performance of the cantata I" Joseph," illustrated by limelight views, fol- lowed by a miscellaneous programme, was given on Good Friday evening, at the Pier Pavilion, by the Tabernacle Blue Ribbon Choir. NATIONAL UNION OFTEACHERS.—The annual conference of the N.U.T. has been held this week at Portsmouth. The representatives from the North Cardiganshire Association were Miss Brant, Commins Coch Mr R. R. Davies, Chancery, and Mr W. Hamer, Trc- feirig. VESTRIES.- On Monday at Holy Trinity, Mr John Jenkin Jones was re-elected, and Mr J. DT Perrott was elected in succession to Mr -1 "J,¿.J .u pit; jiciu on iuuiatxitj morning, at eleven o'clock. ENTERTAINMENTS.—Tuesday afternoon the Shiloh Band of Hope had a tea, and in the evening gave a performance of the cantata Ymgom vr Adar." The same evening the Portland street Band of Hope gave the cantata Little Folks at Play." NEW SCHOOLROOM. "The tine new schoolroom of St. Paul's Wesleyan Chapel was opened on Good Friday. At ten o'oclock a handsome silver key was presented by the Rev J. Humphreys, on behalf of the Church, to the Rev W. Morgan, Erwyd House, who has always been a faithful friend of the cause, and he formally opened the room. The pastor con- ducted a short service, and a financial state- ment was read by Mr Burbeck. In the after- noon there was a free tea, of which a large number partook. In the evening an excellent entertainment was given with Mr H. L. Evans in the chair. Dont't be misled, but go to J. WALTER EVANS, 19 Great Darkgate street, for best value, largest and most choice selection of Ready-made Clothing, Drapery and Furnish- ing Goods of every description. Boys' Over. coats, 4s lid to 15s Youths' do, 6s lid to 30s; Men's do, 10s 6d to 40s. All Newest Styles and Tailor Made. A few Men's last year's Coats to clear at 7s 6d. Girls' and Ladies Jackets and Rainproof Coats in great variety, in black and leading shades of Tweeds, Dress Materials, Blankets, Sheets, Quilts, Flannels, &c. Tailoring to measure of the best class at shortest notice. SPECIAL Suits to measure in Blue, Black, and about 50 patterns of Tweed, 42s fit and style guaranteed. J.W.E. was in the front 20 years ago, and is still leading. Note Address-19 Great Darkgate Street, Aberystwyth. SALEM CHAPEL. Attho weekly meeting of the literary society held last Thursday even- ing, Miss Anne Edwards read a paper on musicians who have had connection with this locality, viz., Dafydd Siencyn Morgan (d. 1841 or 1842, aged 92), Dafydd Jenkins, y Borth, leuan Gwyllt, Billy Collins, John Roberts, the engraver, and David Lewis, LIanrhystyd. An interesting account of John Ellis, Llanrwst, was also given. Mr Tom Williams followed with an account of some musicians who did service for psalmody in Mid-Cardiganshire, viz., Thomas Williams and Evan Jenkins, Abermeurig, William Lloyd and Jeremiah Davies, Bethania, Daniel Lloyd and John Jones, Aberaeron. Mrs Harry Hughes and Mr R. D. Edwards gave expression to the unanimous opinion of the members in regard to the worth and interest of the papers and the labour bestowed on their preparation.

CORPORATION PRINTING. The Abstract for 1902-3 shows that the following sums were paid during that year to the local firms for printing and advertising S. s d John Morgan 4 17 4 William Jones. 8 13 6 J. & J. Gibson 18 16 8 R. G. Bennett 24 18 0 G. Rees 26 7 0 D. Rowlands 35 10 10 I A few weeks ago the Town Council decided to advertise in only two local papers, which happen to be Liberal. I

CLARKE'S This Famous Medicine will cleanse the Blood from all impurities from whatever cause rising- A safe Remedy BLOOD for Eczema, Bad Legs, Scrofula, Blood Poison, Sores of all kinds. Boils, Eruptions, Ulcers, Glandular Swellings, MTVWRNUE1 Stores, &C. Forty years success- Beware at imitations. J

LOCAL COMMISSIONS. The "London Gazette" contains the following 1 War Office,, April 1st. ROYAL GARRISON ARTILLERY (MILITIA). The Cardigan.—MclvUle Charles Dymoko Cordeaux, gentleman, to be sccondlieutonant; dated March 14th.

COUNT* SCHOOL MANAGERS The monthly meeting was held on Tuesday evening, when there were present Mr C. M. Williams, chairman, Mrs E. James, Mrs E. H. James, Mrs W. Griffith, Mr R. Richards, Mr E. H. James, Capt D. James, Prof Macaulay, Professor T. A. Levi, Mr D. Samuel, head- master, Miss Ewart, senior mistress, and Mr John Evans, clerk. Election of Chairman. On the motion of Mr C. M. Williams Mr H. ) Richards was voted to the chair pro tern. The minutes having been read, Mr E. H. James proposed the re-election of Mr C. M. Williams as chairman. Mrs E. James proposed Professor Macaulay, who said he could not acccpt. Professor Levi would press him, but he still declined. Mrs Griffith seconded Mr Williams. This was agreed to. Mr Williams said he was much obliged. It seemed that he had lost the confidence of some members, he hoped not in consequence of any act of his own. If he had served for twelve months he would not re-accept. He had previously declined the office, and only accepted in peculiar circumstances. He hoped all feeling would be sunk in the interests of the school, and to assist the head master and the staff. Nothing on his part shall cause friction. The Chairman proposed that they do not appoint a. vice-chairman. Mrs Griffith proposed Professor Macaulay, and Mrs E. James seconded. This was carried. Finance Committee. On the motion of Mr R. Richards, seconded by Mr E. H. James, it was decided that all the managers be members. Professor Levi withdrew. Lodging House Committee. This committee was appointed. Auditors. Mrs Griffith proposed Professor Levi, who declined to act. Professor Macaulay and Captain James were elected. Scholarships. A letter from Mr Bruce was referred to the Finance Committee. Building Grant. A letter was read from the Board of Educa- tion stating that unless the sum of X2,,100 and a site is guaranteed or paid by the 1st of May the'buildiug grant will be withheld. Mr Richards said the guarantors thought that the value of the property would be sufficient, but the Board of Education differed. The Clerk said that the amount already subscribed was £2,020, besides J6800 for site from the Corporation. The Chairman suggested that the Clerk should send the letter to Mr Fryer for the new County Authority. The Clerk said that if the rent paid by the Headmaster is put towards the JE400 it will make up the deficiency by next year. The Chairman said they could do nothing until the bond is discharged or dealt with by the County Governing Body. He said that the school building contract was over £;000, besides what had been paid for Ardwyn. The Chairman's proposal was agreed to. SlalaviAc increase of salary was referred to the Finance Committee. Salaries amounting to X381 had been paid. Welsh Board. A letter was read from the Welsh Board re- recognition as Division B. Visitors. A rota of visitors was agreed to. Mr Richards said that the visitors had visited the schools, and found everything in good order. He had never seen the. play- ground in such good condition. And, unlike Professor Levi, they had not found a draught. (Laughter, in which Prof Levi joined). Scholarships. The Clerk said that it was usual to grant scholarships to six boys and six girls from elementary schools. b Professor Macaulay said it should be their policy to induee pupils to stay three years. He had been in communication with various schools. At Cardigan and Carnarvon there had been good results. In this school more than half leave after one year. It is desirable to encourage pupils to remain more than two years. The bursary system had been found to answer well. The Headmaster said that private letters to parents had had a good result. He was in favour of bursaries. It was decided that the Headmaster make a report by June of bright pupils. It was agreed to advertise six scholarships for boys and six for girls. Science Master. Five applications had been received. It was decided to continue the temporary arrangements, and that; further inquiries be made respecting the candidates. The Committee's Report. The Clerk said that the report of the com- mittee appointed to enquire and report on the position of the school had been printed and sent to the Managers. The Chairman said it would only be fair to all concerned to postpone the consideration of the report until the Headmaster's replies had been printed, so that both should be con- sidered together at the next meeting. The Headmaster said he would like his replies to be taken side by side with the report. Mrs Elizabeth James proposed that the report be published, but there was no seconder. Mr Richards suggested a special meeting. Professor Levi said the Chairman's sugges- tion was reasonable, but suggested a special meeting that night week. He would probably be away at the time of the next monthly meeting. Captain James proposed that they adjourn the consideration of the report, and that the Master's reply be printed, both to be con- sidered at the meeting in May. Professor Levi suggested a special meeting in a fortnight, as the College examinations would bo coming on. The Chairman said that he had several meetings to attend that week. Mr E. H. James seconded Captain James' proposal, which was agreed to.

BOW STREET. FUNERAL.—On Good Friday the remains of Mr John Prichard, Cross street, shoemaker, were interred at Garn cemetery, in the presence of a large concourse of people. The Rev W. Morgan officiated at the house, and the Rev T. J. Morgan at the cemetery. The deceased, who was 72 years old, was taken ill suddenly and died in a few days. The greatest sympathy is manifested for the widow and I Children, who are grown up. I

THE SLAVE'S REVENGE. The stomach," says Souvestre, is a slave which is obliged to accept everything im- posed upon it but finally avenges its wrongs with the slyness and cruelty i t' :L slave." The eminent French author has lappily ex- pressed an important physical fact. When one comes to reflect upon it there is something unique and pitiable about tho position of the stomach in the human body. Upon no other organ except the lungs can you impose any- thing from the outside world. And it is your interest as well as your desire to draw into your lungs pure, fresh air, only. And air in some form is the only thing the lungs ever receive. On the other band, the stomach is a general receptacle, entirely at the mercy of its owner as to what shall be put into it. when, where, and how much. A man can throw into it anything that can be swallowed -every variety of food, any sort of drink, any amount of both, up to the bag's clastic capacity; and, if he wants to, lie can put a layer of marbles on top, and finish off with Prussic acid. The point is, as M. Souvestre says, that this most important of all our organs is our slave. It cannot resist, it cannot call the police, it has no recourse to the law; it just takes what comes, and abides its time. But how to take care of the health, how to prevent the outbreak of ailments, is a problem much more complex than it seems to be. Therefore, when the enslaved and outraged stomach turns and lashes its owner, with the cat-o'-nine-tails called dyspepsia, it must not bo assumed, off- hand, that the owner intended to drive his servant to desperation. Mr Thomas Anderton, of oO Mill Lane, Newcastle-on-Tyne, described in writing on June 3rd, 1897, how his stomach punished him and what he did to cure his ills. He said For many years I suffered with indigestion and weakness. My appetite was bad, and after eating I had pain at the chest and bowels. I never felt well rested, was heavy and weary, got very weak, and at times had to leave my work. I tried several medicines and spent pounds in physic, but got little benefit. A friend told me of the benefit he derived from taking Mother Scigel's Syrup. I got a bottle of this medicine and after taking it could eat well, and the food agreed with me. I soon found that the medicine was doing me more good than anything t had taken. By taking a dose now and again I keep in good health." It will bo seven years next June since Mr Anderton made that statement, and he has not been ill since his stomach lashes him no more. Read for your., O,f what he says to us in a letter, dated at his old home, on February 15th, this year Gentlemen, it may interest you to know that since sending you my testimony in 1897 to the value of Mother Scigel's Syrup, I have continued to enjoy good health. I still take the medicine as I need it, and would not be without it in the house. When I think of how I suffered I am sorry I did not know of it sooner. I never had a proper night's rest, and I became so weak and languid that I could not work. Nothing did 11 tD me any good but Mother Scigel's Curative Syrup. That cured me, and I shall always be grateful." It is better never to be sick, but when we do fall ill it is a grand fact that a cure is at hand in the form of Mother Scigcl's Syrup, which soothes the stomach and transforms it once more into a willing and faithful servant— not a rebellious slave.

LLINELLA l" COFFADWRIAETHOL Ar ol Miss Anne Owen, gynt o Cwmbran, Penrhyncoch, a chwaer iouengaf y Parcli- edigion Richard Owen, rlieithor Llaufor, Bala, a George Owen, ficcr Tryddyn, a Mrs Bowen, Towyn. Bu farw yn dangnefeddus w JZIksx} x-.rtrl, "yeI teulu yn Llanfihangel Geneu'rglyu :— Distawrwydd mud, distawrwydd nos y glyn, Ymdaenodd megis cwmwl dros y bryn, Pan i Brynmair daeth angeu gyda'i gledd I symud un oedd anwyl iawn i'r bedd; Anne Owen dyner, y mae'r ffaith yn brudd, Ac anhawdd gwol'd goleuni, gan mor gudd Yw y trefuiadau, gwel'd yr ieuanc gwiw Yn nod i angeu, pan mae'r hen yn fyw. Ei henw'll perarogli heddyw sydd, Fel blod'yn dan y gwlith ar doriad dydd, Mae adgof fel yr awel dyner, fad, Yn cario ei berarogl drwy y wlad Yn IIawn o swyn, mae rhywbeth distaw, byw, A'i irder esmwyth, a'i ganghenau gwiw, 0 dan ei ffrwythau, yn ei bywyd pur, Yn gogoneddu gras, yn nos ei chur. Ei gyrfa ddistaw sy'n dystiolaeth dlos O'i hymostyngiad mawr, pan oedd y nos A'r dydd yn ei chaethiwo, ond. er hyn, Disgleiria'i gwyncb fel y gloew lyu Ni byddai byth yn cwyno ar y byd, Ond canmol gras a chariad wnai o hyd, Erioed ni bu un fynwes dyner, wen, Yn gwisgo coron harddach ar ei phen. Fe'n hudir weithiau, heb yn wybod bron, I ddywcyd gormodedd, fel ar fynwos ton, Am ambell un, ond heddyw 'ry'm yn rhydd Wrth sefyll mewn edmygedd dwfn o ffydd Anne Owen gain, mae ei rhinweddati'ii liu, Rhinweddau a'i dyrchafodd tra y bit Yn awyr oer y byd, a gwywdra'r ia, Nis gallaf ddweyd am dani ond y da. Os gwelsom oddefgarwch crefydd bur Erioed yn ei berffeithrwydd o dan gur, Yn mywyd distaw'n gwrthddrych gwelsom ef, Yn gwenu gan ddisgleirdeb gwyn y Nef, Pan ydoedd iechyd corg yn gaeth a blin, Dan bwysau trwm blynyddoedd, bu ei un Yn ddioddcfydd, eto, yn ei Duw Y gorfoleddai, iddo 'roedd yn byw. Os ba yn hir yn mothu myn'd a d'od, Mae heddyw wedi cyraedd at y nod A gadwodd yn sefydlog, 'roedd ei ffydd Yn gwel'd drwy d'wllwch daear wlad o ddydd A gwlad caiff hoender ieuenctyd ei fwynhau A 'i blodau yn eu glesni byth barhau Bu fyw i farw'n dda, bu farw fel bu fyw, Aeth adref yn anadliad cusan Duw, Yn dawel gorphwys o dan odrau'r bryn, Yn mynwent Llanfihangel Geneu'rglyn. Macpela'r teulu, cysegredig dir, Lie y cysgoda'r coed ei chartrof hir, Hyd nes y geilw Ion o lwch y llawr Am dani i deyrnasu, byth mewn hedd, Mae enfys, yr addewid fel y wawr, 0 hyd yn aros uwch ei distaw fedd. Towyn. J. ILAB DAVIES.

MR. T. P. LEWES' FOXHOUNDS WILL mET April 12th Figure Four At 11.

FOOTBALL. BARBARIANS v NEWTOWN K.W.W. A friendly match was played on the Vicarage fiold on Good Friday between the above teams which was very evenly contested resulting in a win for tho visitors by 2 goals to one. Notwithstanding that the home team ha.d to play with five substitutes it was a very creditable performance and augurs well for the future success of the club. TOWYN v BARBARIANS. On Tuesday the Barbarians defeated Towyn by 1 goals to one.

BOARD OF GUARDIANS. I On Monday there were present the Rev J. I Davies, chairman, Mrs g. 11. James, Mrs Kvan Evans, Rev T. A. Penry, Messrs I). Morgan, John Jones, U.K. Morgan, Morgan Williams, Edward Jones, W. Thomas, Evan Jones, David James, John Bonner, Evan Lewis, Richard James, Richard Thomas, Daniel Jones, \V. Mason, W. Morris, and the officials. Increase of Vagrancy. A letter was read from the Clerk to the Carmarthen Guardians stating that there had recently been a great increase of vagrants, and asking for the views of this Board with respect t;) the matter. The Master said that in this house tramps are kept for one night on their first visit, and for longer periods on subsequent visits. Mr Penry proposed, and it was agreed, that the Clerk should communicate with the Car- marthen Clerk. The Master reported an increase of casuals during the past fortnight. During the half- year 7ü2 had been admitted as against 050 last year. Mrs Parry. The Master reported that Mrs Parry had discharged herself one morning and was re- admitted in the evening of the same day. ,-t( el After a discussion it was decided that if she does this again she be admitted into the casual ward. The Clerk's Rumuneration. The Clerk was allowed £ 50 for his services as clerk to the Assessment Committee. Votes of Thanks. Mr Edward Jones proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the Chairman for the excellent manner in which he had carried out his duties during the year. Mr W. Morris, in seconding, said he had done his work admirably and in a business- like manner. He had been impartial through- out. The motion was agreed to with applause. The Chairman said he was very thankful to them. He had done his best. Ho was obliged for their help, which had resulted in a quiet year. He had also received the greatest kindness from the Clerk, the Assistant Clerk, the Master, and others. The Rev T. A. Penry proposed a vote of thanks to the Vice-Chairman, who had been very faithful and was an old member. The Chairman had not given him many opportu- nities of showing ability in the chair. Mr D. Morgan seconded, and the motion was agreed to. Mr W. Morris moved a vote of thanks to the officials. The Clerk had always explained legal points very clearly. Mr W., Mason and Mr Morgan Williams seconded the proposal, which was agreed to. Mr Hugh Hughes returned thanks. The Board had always shown the best feeling, and had given him an increase of salary, but thoy had not given him more than they ought to. (Laughter). He was sorry some of the old members were leaving. The world is not getting better than it used to be. lie was glad that many of the old members arc return- ing, and ho was sure that the old feeling would prevail. He and the other officers had all tried to serve the Board to the best of their ability. Mr Penry congratulated them, and said the last was the happiest year since he became a member. He was sorry old members were leaving, and hoped the new ones would show the same spirit, and that there will be co- operation. Three years ago they had tried the experiment of electing co-opted members, and experience had shown that they had taken the right step. On the House Committee Mrs Evans and Mrs Colby, as well as Mrs James, [iud, xQudeced very valuable.^services. He This was seconded by Mrs James, who said they had been most useful. Mr W. Morris seconded, and suggested the re-election of the ladies. He was chairman when they were first appointed, and he was very much afraid, but was alterwards very pleased with them. Mr R. Thomas seconded. Mr W. Thomas said the ladies had been a great success, and he hoped they will allow themselves to be re-elected. The Chairman said lie agreed with all that had been said, and added that ho appreciated what Mrs Colby and Mrs Evans had done. Mrs Evans acknowledged the compliment. Mr Bonner proposed, and Mr Morris seconded, a vote of thanks to the Press, which was acknowledged. The Chairman gave notice of the re-election of the co-opted members.

PETTY SESSIONS. WEDNESDAY. Before Isaac Hopkins, Esq., mayor, Sir James Szluinper, W. H. Palmer, E. P. Wynne and W. J. Watkins, Esqs. Transfers. Mr T. J, Samuel applied for a permanent transfer of the license of the Bridge End Inn to Thomas Jones, which was granted. Mr Hamer applied for a permanent transfer of the license of llotol 24 to Mrs Jones, which was also granted. Mr R. G. Smith applied for a transfer of the sweet license from Mr Ward, Great Darkgate street, to his wife. Extension of Time. JSxtoDsions of time were granted to Mi ..ntfn.s njr suuun gccTxiei'iitys or cm •Students' Re-union. Close Season. Elizabeth Jenkins was summoned for selling a wild pigeon after March loth. Defendant said she did not know the law. Dismissed with a eautiou.

DEVIL'S BRIDGE. E I 8 T E J) D F 0 D. The Faster Eisteddfod was held oil Tuesday, in an ideal sylvan spot under the shelter of the romantic Coed Gwyrddion, on a mossy turfy ledge, above the precipitous bed of the foaming Mynach. Mr T. J. Waddinghani, the respected squire of Hafod, who was accompanied by Mrs Waddingham, presided in the afternoon, and with his usual generosity promised zC50 towards a new parish hall and JE10 from Mrs Wadding- ham. The Rev Charles Evans, vicar of Yspytty Cynfyn, conducted both meetings, which were very successful. The chief choral prize was won by the Aber- ystwyth choir conducted by Mr J. Arthur Jenkins, and Miss E. D. Ellis, Rheidol terrace won the soprano solo. A Llanbadarn party conducted by Miss Laura Williams, won an impromptu quartett, and Mr James Jones' party won a quartett. Mr Tom Phillips' Penparke male voice party took a prize. The prize for recitation was awarded to Mr Brythonfab James, Penparke. A full report will be given next week.

TALYBONT. The annual meeting of the Talybont Agricultural Society was held last week.

PENPARKE. EBEJ^ZUII.—The annual tea meeting of the Band of Hope and Sunday School, which is an event in the village, took place on Good Friday. The tea was given through the generosity of Mrs Levi. The Rev Thomas Levi and Mrs Levi and Miss Katie Levi were present, aud a most hearty vote of thanks was accorded the family for their timely gift. The Rev Thomas Levi suitably responded.

Mrs. De Pairrter "This stuff don't do at all, and you will have to tftke it back. It doesn't harmonise with my complexion." New Cl#rk (convincingly): "But, madam, it h»Fmonise« with the complexion you had when you selected it." Columbus had just landed when his ssilon observed him weeping. "Tell ire," they in- plored, "what is the matter." "1 have made an awful mistake," he groaned, "I should hwe come over in the Mayflower!" Realising tb»t henceforth he must be a nobody, he fintwed his task with a heavy heart. If a eertaiu prominent New York phjstcrt* ever writes his autobiography, the foltowwgin* eident will undoubtedly be omitted Not IP1# ago the physician in question was called to J boarding house to attend a man v«ry ill wiro pneumonia. The man clied. The keeyr »f to boarding house, a woman, was verv moch tressed, the man having been the 6?«t hoarder to die under her roof. "It's so thtt lie should have died," said she, with self-in- terested sympathy. "1 do hate to hiiwe a funeral here." It won t be necessary, said the doctor consolingly. "The funeral can ha at the undertaker's.' "But I doa't even kaow of oil undertaker," said the unnerved wowme. "I do," said the doctor. "Just around the corner is a good one, to whom I send all Ittj patieiiis." "All?" gasped the landlady, and the doctor wondered why she turned pate. A "woman's reason," with all its traditional lack of logic, came out in an amusing fadfctVB at a recent dinner party in Brooklyn. In the course of the evening the converaatwra drifted around to those odd little mathe- matical bits of the How-old-is-Ann variety, when one of the company, with explanation* that the next problem -would not be a very 4ift- cult one, questioned as fojlows: "If a bottle and a cork together cost$1.10, and the bottle cost a dollar more than the cork, how ranflh did the cork cost?" Almost insta«»J" «■; ladies was ready with the answer: "Why, the cork cost fire cents and the bottle M.05. That 8 too easv." The lady's husband, familiar through years of experience with her woeful lack of skul in figures, looked up in astonishment. "Heavens!" he exclaimed. "How did you come to get that so soon?" "Why, my dear," was the reply, "corks always cost five cenM, don't they!" I accompanied a, friend to a ready-made clothe ing establishment. He selected a sack suit and put it on. The salesman seemed very atr.ble. and painstaking, humoring all my friend's criti- cal comments. "You are right," he said. I perceive that you have a thorough knowledge of a correct fit. I will just call the tailor and vou can suggest the alterations you deem neces- sary." The tailor came promptly with his chalk and my friend pointed out what he considered the defects. "Those are all easily remedied, the tailor replied. "The collar needs shrinking a little closer in the neck, and I will just ease these sleeves a trifle under the arms. How about their length? 1 wouldn't shorten them more than an eighth of an inch. They are weN a irifle loncer this season." All this time he w^a ma-Viwg cnaia mnfus nere ami mere, »e-w- guide for the busheler, ending up with a little crow near the bottom button of the waistcoat, which he himself discovered needed "a slight.transpose* lion." While my friend went to (he dee* to pay his bill and give his address a man send- ing near me said to another: "AH that chafk business is a fake. I used to be a salesman in a clothing house in Rochester. We were obliged to go through all that rigmarole to please cnstftllt4rt. It will simply be taken upstairs, where marks will re brushed iff. the clothes pressed and sent home. The customer will be perfectly satisfied, for you can't fool him on clothes."

BIKTHS. EDWAKDS. February 27th, the wife of Mr David Edwards, Blaenpeutre, Rhusygarth, lihostie, of a daughter. MORGAN.- March Kith, the wife of Mr David Morgan, Church street, Llanrhystyd, of a sou. MAKKIAOJS. DAVIES -DAVIES.—April 6th, at St Paul's Cluipel, by the liev D. M. Davies, New Quay, assisted by the Rev A. C. Pearce, Ystiuutuen, in the presence of the Rev W. Joues, registrar, Mr David Joshua Davies, Post-office, X'wtu Ystwyth, to Miss Annie Davies, Cambrian House, New Quay. jAMMs HtJHHt;n Aprit 4th, at Babell Chapel, Dolybont, by the Rev D. Caron Jones, in the presence of Mr J. J. Hughes, registrar, Mr John William Janes, 142 Laudor road, Stockwell, London, to Miss Margretta Hughes, Talybont. r, I MORGAN--JONES.—April 4 th, at Bethel Independent Chapel, Talybont, by the Kev John Davies, iu the presence of Mr .T. ,T. Hughes, registrar, Mr Alberc Windsor Morgan, Stamford House, Cwmbran, to Miss ltebecca Jones, Gwarcwmbach, Llancvn- felin. ROWLANDS—JONES. April 1st, at Capcl Madog, by the Kev David Lewis, pastor, in 0 the presence of Mr J. J. Hughes, registrar, Mr David Rowlands, 42 Kdtuond street, Tylorstown, Pontypridd, to Miss Elizabeth Jones, Rhydyceir, Penrhyncoch. DEATHS. EDWARDS. March 31st, at Portland road, Edward Edwards, fitter, aged 00 years. JONES.—April 4th, at Penparke, Elizabeth Jones, dressmaker, aged 51 years. JENKiNS. April 1st, at Peniiarke, Antiie Elizabeth, daughter of Evan Jenkins, aged 12 months. PDGH.- April 3rd, at Rhydyfelin, J. Humphrey- Pugh, farmer, aged 58 years. RADCLII-KE. April 4th, at Smithfield road, Frederick Harold, sou of Arthur Radclifle„ aged 15 months. PIERCE. April 5th, at Cleorgo street, Elizabeth Enid, daughter of D. It. Pierce, aged 18 months. WILLIAMs.-March 20th, aged 1 mouth, Jenkyn Stanley, son of Mr David Williams, Piginuchaf, Llanrhystyd. DA\ IE £ >. March 2oth, aged 42 vears, IVlrs Eleanor Davies, wife of Mr John Davies, Gwarffynon, Llanrhystyd. PRITCHARD.-March 29th, at Cross street, Bow Street, Mr John Pritchard, aged 73 years.

HEADSTONES, CROSSES, MONUMENTS, AND MURAL TABLETS, IN GRANITE, MARBLK, SLATE & STONIJ. MONUMENTS RESTORED AND RE.LETTHREO and every description of MONUMENTAL WORK EXECUTED. ESTIMATES FREE. HOSKING & MILLER, ENAMELLED SLATE AND MARBLE WORI<D CAMBBUN STREET, ABERYSTWYTH,

LLANBADARN FAWR. PETTY SESSIONS, THURSDAY.-Before Capt Nicholas Bray (chairman), Thomas Griffiths and Isaao Hopkins, Esqs. Gun Without a Licence. William E. Lewis, Cwmbrwyno, In was summoned by Charles James Costeloe, inland revenue officer, with carrying a gun without a licence on January 5tb.- Mr Cruikshank supervisor, appeared for the inland revenue offiee.-P.C. Owen caught the defendant carrying a gun for which he had no licence. He had since taken out a Defendant was fined £1 and costs. Rate Cases. John Jenkins, quarry proprietor, Aberyst- wyth, was summoned by David Edwards assistant overseer for the parish of Vaeuor Lower, for the non-payment of the poor rate amounting to Y.1 18s lid, and not £ 1 8s lid aa stated in the summons.—The Clerk (Mr Hugh Hughes) said the mistake was fatal to the summons, and the Bench ordered that a fresh summons should be issued.—The same defen- dant was charged by the overseer for the parish of Issayndre, the amount being 12s 3d. -In this case a distress warrant was ordered to be issued. Theft of Eggs. Frederick Green, 9 Penglais terrace, Aber- ystwyth, 12 Edward Warrington, Poplar Row, Aberystwyth, 12 and George Hughes, Northgato Villa, Llanbadarn road, 10; all school boys, were charged by Supt. Phillips with stealing nine eggs, of the value of Is., the property of Margaret Pierce, of Commins Coch.—Mrs Pierce said that during her absence from the house the previous afternoon for about twenty minutes the oges were taken from a box in a pigstye, where she had a heu sitting. She found one of the eggs on the roadway broken. She had seen three ladii in the village but was not close enough to identify them. Information was given to the police.- P.C. Thomas Davies said ho saw the lads and asked Green to account for the eggs. Hughes said they got them from a Miss Jenkins, of Waun, but Green said lie had found them in a hedge. -Warrington said that Green went into the pigstye and took nine eggs and divided them amongst them, Hughes said lie had dropped his on the road. —On being charged Green said that War- rington took the eggs and passed them on to Hughes and himself. Warrington admitted taking the eggs.—The Bench ordered Warrington to receive 12 strokes with the birch rod, and Green and Hughes six each. Supt. Phillips's Resignation. Supt. Phillips said that as that was the last occasion for him to appear in an official capacity before the Bench, he begged to fcbaok them most sincerely for tho tiadoes ind courLcsy they had shown to him since bo J came there. Nobody knew better than him- self that his shortcomings had been many, but he had been treated as if he was ihe best man in existence. lie also wished to thank their learned Clerk in the warmest manner for the kind help he had extended to him on more than one occasion. lIe wished them every happiness. -The Chairman said they were sorry Supt. Phillips was leaving them, If they could get anybody to do as well as he had done they would be very well satisfied. He wished him long JiIe and happiness. -Supt. Phillips thanked the chairman.—The Clerk said he had had the pleasure of the acquaint- ance of Supt. Phillips for twenty or thirty years, and they had always worked harmoniously together. lie extremely te- gretted that he was retiring from active con- ncction with the police force, but he was pleased that he was not severing his connec- tion with the county. He thought he was ex- pressing the feeling of his profession generally when he said that at all times they had received the greatest courtesy from Mr Supt. Phillips, whether brought in contact with him professionally or otherwise. For his own part lie might say Supt. Phillips and himself had had one or two skirmishes during the time he had occupied the position or Supcrintendcnt or the Police, but (hey had always parted friends. He could assure them tha t he felt very keenly that the force was losing a very efficient officer end a lIIan of very gre it discretion in Supt. Phillips. He hoped he would be spared many years yet to enjoy life and the pension that he had so well deserved from the county.

JAMES v THOMAS. Mary James, k ronllangwrda, spinster, applied for an affiliation order against James Rees Thomas, Brysgaga, Bow-street, farmer. Mr William Davies (Messrs Smith, Davies, and Co.) appeared for the complainant, and Mr A. J. Hughes represented the defendant. Mr Davies said both parties were highly re- spectable and well educated. The complainant, of prepossessing appear- ance, and stylishly dressed, stated that in February she gave birth to a lemalo child, of which the defendant was the father. He seduced her, she said, under promise of marriage, He told her he IUHlt1011 in hank shares, and that his uncle would leave him Brysgaga Farm when lie died.—In cross-exami- nation, complainant stated that she had in- stituted an action against the defendant for breach of promise. All the damages she had sustained she expected to get in the action. She was only there that day to get an order for the child. Mr llughes, who paid the defendant did not deny the paternity of the child, asked the bench to treat the case as an ordinary one, particularly as an action for breach of promise was going to bo brought against the de- e, el fendant. The Bench made an order for '.>s, <>d. per week, and allowed tho medical and advocate's fees.

-< TOWN COUNCIL. A meeting of the Town Council WHS held this morning. It is usual to hold the meetings which fall on Hank holidays in the afternoon of the following Wednesday, but on this occasion it was decided to hold it in the morning. Had an agenda been sent we should have reported the meeting. We understand that no important business was transacted. Mr T. H. Edwards refused toactas Mayor's auditor.

THE EDUCATION ACT. LLANDRINDOD CONFERENCE. The conference of representatives of the Welsh County Councils was held at Llan- drindod on Easter Tuesday, and was attended by about 200 members. Mr Lloyd George, M.P., was in favour of a compromise, but the settlement must drive the priesthood out of its entrenched positions in the schools. The clergy never slumbered. The Scotch Bill would settle the difficulty. He was agreeable to the right of re-entry out of school hours. Resolutions were passed, but Dothing was done teudiug to a settlement of the questions

TO OUR READERS. Owing to the holidays wo are compelled to give condensed reports of some events and to hold others over until next week. A letter by Mr W. Godfrey, Organising Secretary to the Committee for Church Defence and Instruction in South Wales, will appear next week.

OLD STUDENTS' KK-UMO.—A large number of old students are visiting Aberystwyth this week. About seventy of them had a, ball at the Cale on Monday, and a. bout a hundred attended a whist drive at tho same place on Tuesday evening. FcNiiKAi.. This morning the remains of Mrs John Morgan, formerly of Bout farm, were brought by rail from Mcnai Bridge, and conveyed in a hearse accompanied by several carriages, for interment at Ponterwyd. She was 80 years of age.