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THE MERTHYR WATER BILL.
THE MERTHYR WATER BILL. LIVELY MEETING AT TROEDYRHIW. THE PLYMOUTH COUNCILLORS CALLED UPON TO RESIGN. A crowded meeting of ratepayers was held on Friday evening last, at the Troedyrhiw Schools, for the purpose of hearing an address upon the Water Bill from Mr. T. H. Bailey, J.P. (trie chairman of the District Council, and Mr. Joseph Owen, a member of the Council. The advertised time of the meeting was eight o'clock, but half-an-hour previously the schoolroom was crowded, and when Mr. William Lewis, Treharris, accompanied by the Editor of the Merthyr Times, Councillors Thomas Thomas, John Lewis, D. Davies, Mr- David Evan", auctioneer, and others, entered the room they were received with It loud cheer, which changed to a hiss as Mr. Bailey and Mr. Joseph Owen made their appearance. Mr. W. Watkins wiili, first of all elected to the chair, but that gentleman begged to be excused, and Mr. Morgan, grocer, was prevailed upon to preside. The Chairman, in the course of his opening remarks, stated that it was only fair that both sides of the question should be heard, and he hoped the same fair play would be accorded to Mr. Bailey and his friends as was also given to Alderman D. Davids and his supporters. At a future time a debate on the question should be obtained, but he hoped that peace would prevail in that meeting. He was an indepen- dent man, and would act as impartially as possible. Ha hoped, therefore, that each speaker would have freedom of speech, a fair hearing, and justice, and that no bad feeling would be shown. Mr. D. Evans stated that at the Tuesday evening meeting a challenge was made by Alderman D. Davies to have the question debated, and the Chair- man accepted the challenge (applause). They were here that evening for the purpose of meeting upon that challenge, and he hoped the meeting would bo open to a fair discussion. They had accepted the challenge, and he hoiied the chairman would take it that such would be tne case (applause). Mr. Arthur Daniel endorsed the remarks, but asked the audience to give Mr. Bailey and Mr. Owen every fair play, and he was authorised to say that fair play would be given them. The Chairman said that if a challenge was given, he never said he would convene a meeting or accepted the challenge. He had no authority to convene a meeting, and would not be justified in accepting a challenge on behalf of either Mr. Bailey, Mr. Owen, or anyone else. Mr. Arthur Daniel We are here to hear Mr. Bailey and Mr. Joseph Owen, and not you (cheers). Alderman David Davies rose to explain matters, and said that the chairman asked a question at the close of Tuesday's meeting as to who framed the Bill, and the reply he (the speaker) gave was to the effect that that was what the members of the Council wanted to know. The Council did not know who framed it (shame). Then further on Mr. Morgan, the chairman, thanked the Merthyr gentlemen for coming down to give une side of the question, and he (Alderman Davies) replied that as Mr. Morgan was a friend of Mr. Joseph Owen, the best course was to see that gentleman, and get him and Mr. Bailey and Mr. H. W. Lewis to give the other side of the question (hear, hear). The popular party had nothing what- ever to conceal and suggested that Mr. Morgan should convene a meeting at an early date. That morning a geutleman from Troedyrhiw informed him that a meeting would be held, atid%jie felt certain he would have received an invitation from Mr. Morgan to be present, but the intimation never c Ime (laughter). Now he was anxious to hear Mr. Bailey, and Mr. Owen stating their case, and should have liked if Mr. H. W. Lewis had been present also (Voices, "bad, bad," and loud laughter), He trusted they were all as anxious to hear both sides of the question, and that they would give Mr. Bailey and Mr. Owen a fair hearing. They would do so if they had any respect for the other side, and at the end, if a resolution was submitted they would be able to voice their opinions in a very strong manner (hear, hear). The Chairman explained that he had not convened the meeting. Mr. T. H. Bailey, J.P., explained that Mr. H. W. Lewis was absent in consequence of his having to attend a meeting of the Farms' Management Com- mittee (laughter). He was very glad indeed to be able to stand before them because it was only just that the electors of his own ward should hear from him his reasons for supporting the Merthyr Water El Bill in its entirety. Aid. Davies and others who sat with him on the Council did not agree with the position he had taken up, yet they gave him the credit of believing that what he did was just and right towards the electors. And during the 13 years which they had sat together on the Board, no matter how they disagreed they had never condescended to personalities (hear, hear). What they wanted to do was to get rid of these personalities which caused so much trouble (hear, hear). He hoped it would never be his lot to say one single word in disparagement of the person who disagreed with him. Feelings brought into matters of this kind were very deceptive, for when they had their feelings wound up, as it were, they knew what the result would be. He knew it was a difficult thing to keep their feelings under con- trol at all times, yet they had to do so if they were to get at the bottom of certain problems. A great many hard things had been said on the spur of tne moment by gentlemen whilst speaking of this Bill, but of these he would take no notice. They had to face this question as a financial alfair to see exactly where they stood. The first thing to be considered with regard the 20th Clause was: What was their position now and what would lie their position after the £ 120,000 was borrowed ? This was a very large figure, the value of which it was difficult to comprehend. They had to look about them and be very careful, and he knew, to his own knowledge, that this question had been on the tapis for eight years. Mr. Thomas Williams, his predecessor 111 the chair, said that they were doing what was illegal by charging the deficit for the waterworks account on the general district rate, and every one of them would give Mr. Williams the credit of attempting, at any rate, to do what was just and fair towards every elector in the district. The Merthyr Bill was the result of the deliberations of the Local Board. It was framed by the Parlia- mentary agents in London from instructions given by the Local Board. The Bill was drafted and came to the hands of the Local Board on the 8tli Dec. last. Copies were ordered for the members, and on the 31st December he received through the post a copy of the draft Bill. He went through it carefully, and considered more especially what would be the effect of the 20th Clause upon the district. At the first meeting of the District Council, because he and other members wanted some information, a resolution was passed instructing the book-keeper to prepare a state- ment showing the effect of the new water rates upon the various properties. This was done. and a flood of light was thrown upon the whole matter. In prepar- ing the Bill the Parliamentary agents had to consider how the money was to be obtained, and when obtained how it was to be made up, and having the experience of a large number of years they came to the conclu- sion that the whole of the burden of the J65,000 a year necessary to pay it off should not all come from the general district rate. They further considered that the water consumers should bear a portion of this extra amount required. Mr. D. W. Jones, the vice-chairman of the District Council, had written a most lucid and a very explicit letter to the weekly papers, and he (Mr. Bailey) agreed with what he said to a very great extent. Capital and labour had to protect their property, and whatever burdens the ratepayers laid upon the capitalists it was so much out of their pockets and prevented capital from pay- ing the same amount of wages to labour (laughter). If the money of the capitalists was to go in other directions it reduced his ability to pay wages (renewed laughter). The Parliamentary agents came to the conclusion that the water charges of 1858 were very low, and if all properties in the district were to be fairly dealt with the only way to do so was by bringing up the charges to the standard adopted in 1879. These rates were accordingly placed in the Bill. He should not for one moment desire that the deficit already upon the general district rate should be disturbed, but they had to face another jB5,000 per annum, and the figures placed before the Lord's Committee on Tuesday last convinced the Lord Chairman of Com- mittees that in order to deal fairly with the rate- payers at large they must alter the water charges. If the rates were left as they were the deficit would be jB4,110, but if under the altered circumstances the water rates were increased to what they were in the Bill the deficit would be £ 5,740, so that the works) would have to meet a very much larger proportion of the rates than they did at the present time. When they considered that if the jE:5,350, 64 per cent. of which had to he paid by the capitalists, came out of the pockets of the general ratepayers, and added to it the £5,740 already mentioned they would have an amount of over J69,000 to be met out of the general district rate. Those who were water consumers would not he benefitted to the extent it was adaiitted they would if that £ 9,000 had to be made out of the general district rate. By a'tviiug the rates they increased the water rents by ^d. per week—2d. per week instead of l^d.—but by the reduction in the general district rate the total rates would only be increased by 4d., and he did not think that that would be placing a very large sum on the water con- sumers. Those who used the water should pay for it, or at any rate pay them fair proportion of the cost of supplying the water. Yet after all the bother all it came to on the cottages was 4d. per week. Was Is. Id. a year a very exorbitant figure for the cottage consumers to pay out of the new loans, for that was what it really came to Mr. David Evans rose to ask a question, but Mr. Bailey stated that his own electors had asked him to address a meeting, and he had not noitie there to answer questions put by people outside his own ward (great disturbance, hisses, and cries of "Shame"). Mr. D. Davies Allow Mr. Bailey to have his say. Mr. Arthur Daniel: Any ratepayer from Dowlais to Treharris has a right to ask a question (loud applause). The Chairman rose to call for order, but was met with cries of bit down," Don't waste the time of the meeting." Ald. D. Davies The chairman is here to conduct the meeting, and you have no right to tell him to sit down. I trust you will listen to Mr. Bailey and too quiet, and then we can have questions at the close. Mr. Bailey, proceeding, pointed out what was the position taken by him and the position taken by his opponents. Mr. Dau Thomas weut up to London, accompanied by Mr. William Lewis, and placed before the Lords their views. Mr. D. Davies: Is that correct' Did Mr. Lewis give evidence ? Mr. Bailey If you will allow me to piocced order, order, sit (town The Chairman Let him proceed. ■ Mr. Arthur Daniel May I appeal to Mr. Bailey not to make any incorrect statements. He had better 1*3 careful. If he makes any incorrect statements they should be knocked in tho head at once (loud cheers). At the same time I shall not ask him any questions until the close if he docs so (hear, hear). Mr. Bailey: Mr. Dan Thomas £ a\e his evidence. Th.;jii «:ame Mr. hewis turn, but 1 waj astonished to hear that he refused to go into the box. When I e.ii«es-.fcd my ■ urprise he said No. he had decided wot »•» g<» into the i.iux." He could not understand j l.'iwii g^ing up to London and to give' t'i' ir view, before a tribunal. Proceeding, the speaker oil to ask what had been the result of Mr. Dan > Thomas' evidence. He obtained the solicitor of the Licensed Victuallers' to help h m, and he (Mr. Bailey) was very much surprised that the very pro- perty in which Mr. Dan Thomas was interested got their rates reduced to the tune of nearly £700, which would have to he borne by the cottage owners and the general ratep vyers. Mr. Arthur Daniel So much to Mr. Dan Thomas' credit, I should say, air (loud cheers). Mr. Bailey If Mr. Daniel thinks that that is the spirit in which to fight the battle of the cottage owners, I say I don't. Mr. Daniel Ho was placing his own interest sub- servient to those taxed heavier. That is where it is to his credit. to his credit. Mr. Bailey What I say is that the effect of the evidence is that the very property in which be is per- sonally interested has been relieved, and that the burden will have to be borne by the cottage owners. Mr. Arthur Daniel What I say is that Mr. Dan Thomas, in supporting the cottage owners, has been going against his own interest (cheers). Mr. Bailey Mr. Daniel doas not understand the position. If Mr. Daniel thinks that it is right for the cottage owners to- Mr. Daniel You are deliberately misunderstand- ing me. You said that the cottage owners would not berefit. If that is so, Mr. Dan Thomas is going against his own interest for the sake of the cottage owners who will be charged in this way. Mr. Bailey I don't want any misapprehensions. It is quite clear what the result of Mr. Dan Thomas' evi- dence was. Houses above JB10 have been relieved, and the effect of :;iiat is that the money will have to be borne by the small cottage owners. Mr. Daniel: That is a different statement (no, no). That is not what was said at first, and Mr. Dan Thomas is not to be blamed, whatever the result may be. Mr. D. Evans Lord Morley made a distinct state- ment when he sent the Bill for consideration that certain charges were to be altered before ever Dan Thomas gave evidence (loud applause). Mr. Daniel If Mr. Dan Thomas had been here, I would have allowed him to answer for himself, but in his absence I take it up. Proceeding, Mr. Bailey said that Mr. Dan Thomas' zeal rather outstripped his discretion, and if he had only looked at these things from an unbiassed stand- point he would have seen that by goiug headlong in one way he had done an injury in another. Counsel for Messrs. Crawshaw got up and said they would perhaps some day be left at the mercy of gentlemen of Mr. Thomas' temperament, and rather than allow this Clause to lie permissive they would ask the committee to make it imperative. This the committee did, and said they would not leave that to the discretion of the District Council. Mr. Daniel: When you take such an unfair ad- vantage of Mr. Dan Thomas' absence, it is hard for me to sit down (hear, hear). You are deliberately trying to get this meeting to believe thtt Mr. Thomas produced these results. Whatever the result may have been, Mr. Thomas is as much entitled to honesty of purpose as you are (loud cheers). Mr. D. Davies said that such statements placed Mr. Thomas at a very great disadvantage (cheers). Considerable interruption put a stop to the proceedings for a while, and Mr. W. Lewis jumped up and begged the meeting to give Mr. Bailey a hear- ing. Mr. Daniel If Mr. Bailey speaks the truth he will have no iuteruptions from me. The Chairman again appealed for order, but wan met with cries of Sit down," Get your hair cut," &e. Mr. Daniel essayed to speak, but he also was told by Mr. Bailey's supporters to sit down, to which he retorted, I will not sit down for you. You are paid for the purpose" (loud applause). The Chairman We are not going to proceed with the business in this manner. It is not right that Mr. Bailey should be interrupted. You can ask your questions later ou.—A Voice Why doesn't he give the right facts ? Then he can go on (loud cheers). The Chairman The facts will be given before thp end. — A YoicfJ "Yes. and Bailey will be gone then" (loud laughter). Mr. Bailey said he would be very sorry indeed to give a single thing which was not a fact. While the large companies had to bear the far greater propor- tion of the increase in the rates the cottage owners would simply have to bear id. per week. Mr. Bailey then spoke in favour of the consolidation of teans, the question now coming to the front, and which was well supported by Mr. D. Davies and Mr. W. Lewis. Mr. Joseph Owen then spoke in Welsh, and said he had come there to defend himself. The Water Bill was framed by the old Local Board,and the first thing he saw after lie was returned to the Council was a printed copv of the Bill. Under the Act of 1858 the Boar-d of Health had no power to increase the charges, and it was found necessary to have higher charges for the water. It was said that persons like him had voted in favour of saddling the ratepayers with £18,000. He was in favour of levelling the charges, but he did not want to save the companies at the expense of the ratepayers. Dowlais complained that they had to pay for the water in three ways, first by meter, secondly from the cottages they had, and thirdly because they had to pay the deficit through the general district rate. This was unfair. Five or six farmers had also complained to him that it was unfair and dishonest that they had to pay for the water they did not use (oh, oh). There was some reason in what they said, for some of them lived three miles away from the water. The fact that the charges had been made compulsory instead of perniis- sive was due to somebody between Merthyr and London, and they would have to appeal to the House of Commons before they could jret this altered. Some of thf) charges were out of all reason (A Voice Why did vote for them, then ?"). Mr. D. Davies: Give figures.—Mr. Owen: lam going to give figures (A Voice Don't listen to him. The figures are not correct ").— The Chairman Let him proceed. I must have the meeting in order.— Mr. Daniel (to the chairman): Don't waste time. Mr. Joseph Owen, proceeding, said that houses under JSt would be £ d. less houses rated at £5 would Iw increased 4s., or 9-lOths of Id. per week L6 would be 2s. 3d., or 6-10ths of Id. per week L7 would be 2s. 5d., or 5-6ths of Id.; JB8 would lie in creased 5s. 4d., or 1 2-10ths of Id. per week JM would be 5s. Id., or 1 l-10th of Id., and J310 would be 4s. 7d., or 7 1.20th of Id. per week. Then the houses from JE10 up to £ 100 would be reduced. A great cry was being made that houses would be raised in rent Is. per week, but that was a naked lie. The rents had liecn increased 50 and 100 per cent., and the excuse then was the 2s. 6d. rate; but if the Assessment Committee had done what was right they would have risen the assess- men:, accordingly for the sake of the ratepavers generally. If what Mr. Bailey said, that Id. had been taken out of the rates of publicans and brewers and shopkeepers, was true, it was a acandaioua shame (Mr. Daniel: We don't want the reduction). He blamed those who had been in London, and especially Mr. Dan Thomas, who by threats and suggestions had made the Act such as the Council could never undo. He would advise those who had been making charges against him to be more careful, because he did not like to be told that he had been saddiingthe workmen with £ 1,800 ("oh, oh," hisses, and interruption). He was as good a friend to the workman as anybody in the room—(" Boo")— and perhaps better {" Oh, sit down"). Mr. D. Davies said he was surprised to hear what Mr. Owen had said and would like to know from what document he had been reading, and wh" supplied him with it (laughter and applause). He would read them in figures as they were set forth in the official docu- ment. Houses from 24 to L6 (and there were many in Troedyrhiw) would be raised from 7s. 7d. to 15s. (shame), and houses rated between £6 and C8 would be increased from 8s. 8d. to 17s. 4d. (shame). He was surprised that Mr. Owen said that the mistake was made in London. Mistakes h:d evidently been made in London, but far greater mistakes had been committed in Merthyr for which Mr, Owen, Mr. Wills and Mr. D. W. Jones were responsible. These were the gentlemen who represented themselves as the workmen's friends. He did not blame Mr. Bailey for saving £ 4 a week to his masters, but he should not put the money of the ratepayers in their pockets (applause). Nor did he blame the repre- sentatives of the Dowlai, and Cyfarthfa Companies for saving £3. a week to their employers. These large companies, however, were wealthy enough without being supported by Mr. Owen and others. Mr. Owen had been blaming the Assessment Com- mittee for neglecting to increase the assessments of puldie-houses and breweries, but Mr, Owen had been on the Assessment Committee, and he would like to know what he had done in this direction "Tlaughter and applause). These gentlemen called themselves Liberals, and at the same time did all they could against the interests of the working classes (shame). Mr. Owen had no ripdit to say that people complained about him, for be was a public man, and was responsible to the electors for his actions. However they were prepared to fight the matter to the bitter end (loud cheers). He trusted they would have the synrpathy of the House of Commons, for this was one of the most wicked Acts he had ever seen during his 40 years life in Merthyr. Mr. Owen said the Bill had been discussed by the last Board, but lie (Mi- Da vies) denied this. Mr. Owen: Y it was.—Mr. Davies: You were not a member.—Mr. Owen Yes I was.—Mi. Davies: No, you were not.—Mr. Owen I lost 18 months and you were out for four years.—Mr. Daniel: We are discussing the action of the District Council—not the Local Board. Mr. Davies proceeded to say that the Couucil had no chance whatever to discuss the Bill clause by clause, and the ra tepayers had a right to see that their representatives should have fair play. That had been denied them. Mr. Bailey No, who said so? Mr. Daniel: From Mr. Bailey's own mouth I condemn him. He said to-night that instructions were sent to the agents on the Sth of December, and he received a copy on the 31st. The District Council election took place on the 17th (loud cheers and That's right). Mr. Bailey said that Mr. Henry Lewis raised the question at the last meeting of the Local Board. Mr. D. Davies: It never had the consideration of the District Council. I have several times asked the chairman if we should discuss the Bill, and wa;; each time told that there was plenty of time, and the Bill would not come ou until after Easter. Is not that so Mr. Bailey ? Mr. Bailey Yes (laughter). Mr. D. Davies pointed out that Mr. Bailey had made a lot of capital out of the fact that a lot of extra money was required. It was owing to the large companies, who consumed large quantities of water, that this large e\|>ejiditure was required. If they took a record of all the members who had been preseut on the Board since it was formed in 185.5 they would find that there had always been a majority of gentle- men directly connected with the works, and if there was any deficiency it was these gentlemen who were to be blamed. He did not particularly wish to blame Mr. Bailey as much as those who had preceded bim. There had, however, been Home spirit at work trying to put the burdens on the poorer shoulders of the parish to the relief of those who could afford to pay. Mr. Joseph Owen I thought I had been explicit enough in giving the figures, but I am accused by Mr. Davies of having misconstrued them. I am surprised at Mr. Davies trying tomakeme'a liar ("No, no,"and interruption; ). lie was on the Board as well as myself when they decided to go in for the reservoirs. Mr. Daniel: If he was he was not in the majority. Mr. Uweu No one was to be blamed more than another. Mr. D Davies: I was not a member at that time (cljeevs). I iinu astonished that Mr. Oweu should make that remark. I shouid like him to read the statement asldid. Mr. Owen The figures I gave were correct (Inter- ruptions and cries of "No"). Mr. Bailey and the Chairman endeavoured to restore order, but were met with cries of Sit down," itc. Mr. Daniel: Mr. Bailey and Mr. Owen can give their replies at the end. Mr. Bailey: No (" Boo, boo," and considerable interruption): We should have the figures perfectly clear. Mr. Davies: Let Mr. W. Lewis upeak. He lives in Treharris, and is anxious to go home. Mr. Bailey: So am I anxious. Let me finish (More interruptions at this stage, and Mr. Bailey was told to sit down, but insisted on giving an expla- nation). Mr. Daniel urged upon him to defer his explana- tion until the end, otherwise he could not lie respon- sible for the conduct of the meeting. Mr. Bailey: Gentlemen—("Boo, boo," Sit down, will you)'! Mr. W. Lewis: It is agreed between Mr. Bailey and I that he shall apeak first. Mr. Arthur Daniel: We want to do "erious busi- ness here, Mr. Bailey, and we do not want the time wasted. Gentlemen, let him have five minutes (Cries of Go on, Bailey," and "Only five minutes, mind Mr. Bailey I just want to give a few figures about the companies. The total rates of the Plymouth Company amount to £2,358, and under the new Bill we shall have to pay £ 2,458. That will be JB100 to the worse in the balance sheet. Dowlais will have to pay £ 4,261 instead of £ 4,120; Cyfarthfa, £ 3,738, instead of £ 3,626. Nixons' would be increased from JE5,960 to £4,111, and the Ocean Company from £ 2,952 to £ 3,173. Mr. D. Da vies explained that a statement had been prepared by Mr. Rowland Harrie". and these were very different to those read by Mr. Bailey. He would like to ask Mr. Bailey if the statement of Mr. Harris was correct. Mr. Bailey So far as it goes it is correct, but it doe-i not go far enough. Mr. Daniel Why did you not go far enough, aDd give us the charge", yon would have to pay if this Bill did not come int) operation (Loud cheers, "good old Daniel, hooroo")? Mr. Bailey I have gone far enough. Mr. Daniel No, sir. I submit to you that you would have to pay £ 1,800 more. Will you deny that ? Mr. Bailey Yes, I do. Mr. Daniel proceeded to ask some further questions, to which Mr. Bailey refused to reply. Mr. Daniel challenged Mr. Bailey to say that the companies were not favoured by the Bill. No answer. Mr. W. Lewis, Treharris, followed and gave a history of the proceedings from the beginning until the present time. Comparing the watlir rents for houses 1 ated at £ 7 15s., which in Merthyr would be 17s. 4d., he said that similar houses would pay in Cardiff 9s. 6d. Tredegar, lh. Neath and Aberdare, 9s. 7d., and Pontypridd 12s. He further explained that the reason why he refused to give evidence was because the counsel for the District Council did not protect Mr. Dan Thomas when he was giving his evi- deuce, and it was feared that he, like Mr. Thomas, would be knocked about by the counsel for Messrs. Crawshay. The counsel for the District Council seemed to hold a brief for the companies. He (the speaker) in refusing to go to the box, followed the advice of Mr. Dan Thomas and Mr. J. W. Lewis. Mr. Daniel Is the clerk of the Council the soli- citor for some of these companies ? Mr. Lewis: Yes. Mr. Daniel Is the Plymouth Company one of them? Mr. Lewis I 10m told so. Mr. Daniel And the Dowlais Company ?—Yes. Mr. Arthur Daniel asked Mr. Bailey a number of questions, and eventually moved a resolution protest- ing emphatically against the increased charges made by the Merthyr Water Bill, which relieved the burden of the richer classes at the expense of the poorer, and strongly condemning tho action of Messrs. Bailey, Owen and Lewis, which was a direct and deli Iterate breach of faith. The resolution further called upon them as honourable men to resign their seats and submit themselves to the judgment of the electors —(cheers),—but should they not bo prepared to take that course then, to take an immediate ballot of the parish before proceeding further with the Bill. In moving this resolution Mr. Daniel delivered a very able and convincing speech, showing that water was a necessity for the whole community, and not a com- modity like gas, to be used by each consumer as he pleased. The resolution having been seconded was carried, only one hand being raised against it. Mr. Daniel asked if Mr. Owen and Mr. Bailey were prepared to abide by the verdict of that meeting. Mr. Bailey said that they were not responsible to the meeting ("Yes you are. We elected you.") — Mr. Joseph Owen It is premature for you to have a reply from me.—Mr. Arthur Daniel You are not replying to the meeting, but to the electors. A great deal of disturbance followed, in the midst of which the Chairman declared the meeting closed. A vote of thanks to the Chairman was also passed, on the proposition of Mr. David Evans, seconded by Mr. Thomas Thomas. In acknowledging the vote the Chairman said that he was in favour of abolishing the water rents altogether, and charging the expense 011 the general district rate. This remark was received with loud cheers by the meeting. The building waa crowded to its utmost capacity from beginning to end, the proceedings lasting for about two hours and a half. to great was the crush that one of the desks was smashed into bit-, and it feared that somebody had been injured. Luckily, no harm was done.
ALLEGED INDECENT ASSAULT AT…
ALLEGED INDECENT ASSAULT AT DOWLAIS. Daniel Lynch, a rough-looking character, was brought up on Thursday on remand before tiie Merthyr Bench, charged with indecently assaulting and wonnding Catherine McGower, at Dowlaison the 21st of said her husband was a hawker, and siie lived at Riverside, Merthyr. She had been drinking all day at Dowlais on the day of the alleged assault, and about half-past eleven at night found herself sitting on a step near the Prince of Wales Inn, George-street, close to where prisoner lived. Lynch came np and said" Good night." She made no reply, and the defendant repeated the same words. He then took her by the throat, and said Your life won't be long unless you give me every halfpenny you've got." He then acted in all indecent manner, and threatened to "rip her to pieces" if she did not comply with his request. She struggled. He took out a knife and cut her on the thigh. Then he ran away, and she followed him. He went to his house and shut the door, after which she gave infor- mation to the police. He was sober, but she was drunk. She had fourpence in her pocket, but he did not take that. The prisoner denied the charge, and said the woman came up to him and asked him to shield her from the police. He showed her a way over a wall, and heard her clothes tear. She afterwards came to the door of his house and asked to be let in. He opened the door and the woman entered, followed by the police, who arrested him.—Sergeant Lewis said he saw the parties standing in the street and going to the house of Lynch. Later in the evening Catherine McGower was brought to the police-station. o EBen Donovan, George-street, gave evidence, and P.O. Robert Bull proved the arrest of the prisoner, who made a statement denying the offence. The woman's bodice and petticoat were very much ripped, and an ordinary pocket knife was found on the prisoner.—Tho Bench committed him for trial at the next Quarter Sessions.
TEMPERANCE AT MERTHYK. j
TEMPERANCE AT MERTHYK. A conference of delegates from the various churches and temperance organisations was held on Thursday last at the Temperance Hall, under the auspices of the Merthyr Temperance Society, todiscuss the Local Veto Bill and other temperance questions. The chair was. occupied by Mr. Ernest Daniel, whilst Mr. John Bovven, Gwaelodygarth, acted as secretary. The Chairman, in the course of bis opening remarks, said he felt convinced that the present Government were converts to the principles of temperance, and that they would endeavour to pass the Local Veto Bill into law (hear, hear). It was very desirable that the law against intemperance should be put into force and that the Temperance League should try the effect of moral suasion upon the people (hear, hear). Aid. D. Davies proposed That this conference, composed of representatives of churches and temper- ance societies from Merthyr Tydfil and district, rejoices at the firm attitude Sir William Harcourt, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, has taken in regard to temperance legislative reform, and it hereby records its deep sense of gratitude to him for his noble defence of the principle of Direct Veto, and hopes he will introduce his Bill thereon into the House at the earliest possible date and press it through the various Parliamentary stages this session, thereby giving the people the power to prevent the issuing of licenses for the common sale of intoxicating liquors in their own localities. That copies of this resolution be sent by the chairman to the Prime Minister, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and to the Parliamentary members of the Borough." Itev. W. F. Jones, Caepantywyll, seconded, and expressed dissatisfaction at the fact that a publican had headed the noli in the Town Ward for the recent District Council and the Guardians elections. He had been informed that it would be impossible for a publican to have attained that position had he not received support from Christian churches, and he believed the churches would be doing good if they sent^ adrift those n;embers who had supported publicans. He agreed that a copy of the resolution should be sent to the senior member of Parliament for the borough, but he did not know what to say of the junior member (laughter). And whenever he met that lion, gentleman lie intended asking him if it was true that he went to the house of the publican alluded to, congratulated him on the result of the poll, and remarked, I am glad you crushed the d caucus (hear, hear). He would prefer seeing an all-round Tory returned to Parliament than such milk-and- water gentlemen (applause). A number of other speakers supported the resolu- tion. which was carried unauimously, and it was resolved, on the motion of Mr. Matliew Owen, secon- ded by the Rev. D. G. Evans, Aljercanaid, to request all the churches in the neighbourhood to lx.'Stir them- selves in Temperance work. The delegates then ad- journed to tea, served at Bentley's Central Hall. A well-attended public meeting was held in the evening, presided over by Mrs. Emma Williams. The proceedings were commenced with the singing of the hymn "OFrvniau Caersalem," after which Mrs. Williams delivered a telling address in the vernacular. Mr. W. L. Daniel moved a similar resolution to that passed at the afternoon conference, which was secon- ded by Mr. John Morgan (coal merchant), and sup- ported by most of the speakers who addressed the conference, it being carried unanimously.—The fol- lowing resolution was moved by Mr. John Bowen (G waelodygarthL seconded by the Rev. D. G. Evans, and adopted :—'HHiat this public meeting earnestly appeals to the churches of this town and district to establish and maintain a Temperance society in con- nection with each churoh, if t)iere be not one already existing."
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| HE WANTED A KNIFE.
HE WANTED A KNIFE. John Jones, of Merthyr, was biought up before the magistrates on Thursday, charged by P.C. Joseph Davies with lieing drunk and disorderly in the street on Tuesday night, and also with assaulting him iu the execution of his duties.—The Constable stated that the man struck him and called upon hit sister to bring him a knife.-He was sent to prison for 14 days for being drunk, and for 21 days more for the assault.
ISLEEPING IN A TREHARRIS PIT.
I SLEEPING IN A TREHARRIS PIT. Two young men named respectively Richard Jones and Charles Williams were on Thursday last brought Ibefore the Merthyr magistrates charged with a breach of the special rules of the Treharris Colliery by sleeping in their working places.—Mr. Sidney Simons prosecuted.—Thomas Philips, fireman, said that on the 24th March he found the two defendants asleep about eight or nine hundred yards inside the lamp station. Their lamps were lit, and one of them was in fuch a position that the flame had cracked the glass. If the glass had broken and the flame became exposed the result might have (>een very serious. Previous to this the young men had borne good Previous to this the young men had borne good characters.—They were each fined £1 and costs, or 21 days.
i THE W E 1. S 11 N A T I…
THE W E 1. S 11 N A T I 0 N A L CONVENTION. The arrangements for the Aberystwyth Welsh National Convention are rapidly approaching comple- tion. Negotiations are in progress with the railway companies with the object of obtaining cheap fares for the double journey to and from Aberystwyth. It is hoped that arrangements can be made whereby cheap return tickets will ba issued (a) on Saturday, Atiril 13th, available for return any day up to Saturday, April 20th, and (b) Wednesday, April 17th, available for return any day up to Friday, April 19th. The first of these would enable the delegates to combine business with pleasure, giving them a week's rest at the pleasant Queen of tho Welsh Coast watering places while the second would suit the circumstances of those who can only afford to be a short time awav from home. Full particulars are promised in flue course. Meanwhile the extension of time for sending in applications for delegates' tickets should be made the most of. We understand there are over 200 applica- tions already in hand. and others from all parts of the country are being daily received. Everything seems to point to an unusually representative and successful gathering.
MOUNTAIN ASH COUNCIL.
MOUNTAIN ASH COUNCIL. Monday, Mr. W. Little in the chair. The tender of Mr. John (£105 8s. lid.) was accepted for improve- ments in Dover-street.—'J'lie supplementary valuation lists, Mr. Price wrote, would be ready in a month.— The Glamorgan County Council wrote saying that the Charity Commissioners had appointed Mr. Rhys Williams as commissioner for South Wales, aud hoj)ed that the commissioner may be made acquainted of any charities which may exist in tho district of tho Local Council.—Mr. Adum Clark stated he had one small charity of which he should like to give evidence. —Mr. T. Jones gave notice that lie would move that some alteration be made to the road from Navigation down to Miskin, as it was too narrow. It was a source of danger to traps, &e. The present footpath should bo taken into the road, and fresh laud taken for a new footway. The subject was brought before the old Boird, but the exorbitant prices asked by Nixon and Co. compelled them to defer the matter. In applyiug for this land we should point out what concessions the Council is prepare I to make to the company.—Mr. Rees I don't think it was through any exorbitant charges from the Company, but th» cost of making the new way. It was resolved that the surveyor prepare an estimate for the next meeting. It was decided to spend JE10 ou Ynys Meurig Bridge to put it in a safe condition until the estate people had made a suitable structure. A good deal of sanitary business of a detailed nature was gone through.
VAYJSOR PARISH COUNCIL.
VAYJSOR PARISH COUNCIL. Friday: Present. Mr. J. Rogers, J.P., chairman Messrs. Davies, Edwards, Meredith, Williams, Price, Parr}', Thomas Morris, Owen, John Morris, Harpur. — A letter was read from Mr. D. W. Jones, The Ilafod, Dowlais, thanking the Council for their kind vote of condolence and sympathy.—Mr. Matthew Owen brought forward for discussion the question of the sanitation of Cefn, and proposed, "That this Council, taking into consideration the unsatisfactory state of the sanitation of Cefn as shown in bad gutters, unhealthy drains, uninhabitable houses, existence of several cesspools, and improper arrangements of w.c.'s. petitions the Vayuor and Penderyn Rural District Council to take such steps as will remedy the nuisances arising therefrom." He pointed out the gutter in Church-street, and the houses in Cross- street and Field-street, as instances to support his resolution.—Mr. W. Williams seconded. Messrs. Parry, Price, Edwards, and the Chairman supported, who said the Rural District Council would be pre- pared to make a curb and channel gutter from the top of High-street to the bottom were it not for the cry of "down with the rates." The motion was carried unanimously.—The Vice-chairman not being present, the question of the seal was deferred, inasmuch as the motion stood in his name.—The committee appointed to consider the charge of the Vaynor School Board for the use of the room reported that they had decided to agree with their terms, viz., L2 per annum. The report was adopted.—The Committees of Allotments presented their report, which stated they had decided that the public be informed that Itpp1ic;doai-' may be sent in for allotments. Adopted.—The committee to inquire into the Charities reported that they had decided to write to the Charity and Ecclesiastical Commissioners to enquire whether there are any charities which belong to the parish. The report was adopted.—Mr. Matthew Owen's notice of motion for a demand unon the rates was deferred until the next meeting.—Mr. D. W. Davies moved that urinals be erected at Cefn. The motion was ruled out of order. — Mr. It. Price moved in accordance with notice of motion, That this Council desires to call the atten- tion of the Vaynor and Penderyn Rural District Couucil to the inadequate lighting of Cefn, and would rtspjctfully urge them to take the necessary steps for the erection of additional lamp* in the various bye- streets." He pointed out the inadequacy of light in Poiityeapel-road, Well-street, Field-street, and Hol- ford-streyt.—Mr. J. Harpur seconded.—Mr. T. M orris suggested that the question be deferred until the autumn, remarking the resolution would give greater effect at that period, and moved as an amend- ment that the question be so deferred. Mr. Watkin Meredith seconded.—The Chairman supported the amendment. Ultimately the motion was withdrawn, and the question was allowed to stind over.—Tt was agreed that the annual meeting of the Council be held on Monday, April 22. Jfc
ITHE PLYMOUTH HAULIERS.
THE PLYMOUTH HAULIERS. During the past week there has been considerable friction between the hauliers of Plymouth and their employers in consequence of the latter's decision to enforce the payment of damages whish the men were ordered to pay for leaving work without notice, and on Thursday a numer of them appeared before the Merthyr magistrates to show cause why they should not be committed to jrrison for the non-payment of the damages. Consideiable interest was manifested in the proceedings. The hauliers were not represented by a solicitor, but Mr. Griffiths, who, in the absence of Mr. Gwilym C. flames, represented the Plymouth Company, stated that each of the defendants had sufficient means to pay the tine". This statement was proved by John Davies, pay clerk at the colliery, who gvae in detail the exact sum earned by each of the defendants since tlve case had been heard. Some of these items were disputed by the hauliers, and con- siderable amusement was caused thereby but the Stipendiary promptly quelled this undue merriment. Two of the men had been ill, and their cases were consequently adjourned for a fortnight.—John Smith, who was apparently the leader, was asked by the stipendiary if he wished to say anything, and he replied, I don't see that its much use saying any- thing here."—The Stipenditry Can't you pay the fine by instalments '—Smith No. The impression amongst the men is that they have been unjustly dealt with by the company.—The Stipendiary We have gone into that matter thoroughly, and made an order accordingly. The question now is whether you have been in a position to meet that order or not. If you have been in a position and neglected to do so, you are guilty of contempt of court. This is not a ea,se where a conviction has been made, but you have been ordered to pay a civil debt.—Smith When the case was heard the officials did not state that the horses had been working all Sunday night.—The Stipen- diary That is trying the case over again, and we are not going to do that. The question is whether you are guilty of contempt of court. Have you anything to say to that ?— Smith Nothing only that we are not in a position to pay.—The Stipendiaiy I make the order for payment by instalments of 5s. i*>r month.—After a brief consultation with the otner defendants, one of them, Catoxxi, said, Not one of us is going to pay. We would rather go to gaol. The Stipendiary I have made the order, and if you do not comply with it your wish may be gratified.— Loud murmurs of discontent were heard as the hauliers left the court and were joined outside by a large body of their ft llow-workmen. During Thursday and Friday there was no work at the South Plymouth Pit. The men stayed out in con- sequence of the persistency of the management in enforcing the fines. About 1,500 men were idle. A deputation, consisting of Mr. Morgan Thomas, the hauliers' agent, Mr. John Smith and other; waited upon Sir. T. H. Bailey on Friday, but no letinito arrangement was arrived at.
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NEW CHAPEL AT TROEDYRHIW.
NEW CHAPEL AT TROEDYRHIW. The English Tlaptist Chapel at Troedyrhiw, which was erected last year with accommodation for 300 worshippers has already been found tk,-) small for the congregation, and a new edifice is now in course of erection in Yew-street, with aeeomnuKlation for al>out 600 worshipper?. The building is (>eing erected by Mr. Charity IIawkin", Merthyr, from plans pre- pared by the lato Dr. Rotterts, of Pontyoridd. Ther" is on the ground floor a spacious ludl for entertain- ments and public meetings, and access is obtained to the chapel by means of a double set of »tcps. The total coat of the new building will be about £ 1,670. Four memorial stones were laid in Decemlwr last, and on Monday several additional stones were fixed. Mr. Joseph Owen laid one on !>ehalf of Mr. D. A. 1 homas, M.P., and another 011 l>ehalf of Mr. Pritchard Morgan, M.P., whi'st Mr. Owen laid another in his own personal capacity. A fourth was laid by Mr. Charles Price, the fifth by Mr. W. Morgan, 011 behalf of Miss M. J. Jones, and the "ixth by Mr. Charles Hamer, on behalf of his little daughter, Misa Maggie E. Hamer. Cheques in aid of the chapel fuud were received from Mr. Joseph Owen (JSlO), Mr. Hawkins ( £ 5 5s.), Miss M. J. Jones (£5), Mr. W. PritHiard ™or^an ( £ 5), Miss M. E. llauier ( £ 5), and Mr. Charles Price ( £ 2 2s.).
"LLEWELYN EIN LLYW OLA.:'
"LLEWELYN EIN LLYW OLA. A NEW NATIONAL ANTHEM. Wp are pleased to note that our fellow-townsman, Mr. Tom Price, has just published a. new descriptive chorus for male voices. The subject, Llewelyn ein llyw Ola," is very appropriate to the. times, when Gwalia's best sons are making such strenuous efforts both to commemorate the past by erecting a monu- ment to her last prince, and to win back for her the liberties she for centuries has lost. The beautiful words (English and Welsh) are by Glynfab, and the whole is dedicated to Mr. T. H. Edwards (Cerddfab). The first movement opens with a pacjando by 1st bass, and descries Llewelyn coming in sight of the foe encamped 011 the; plain and rousing his men to action. The 1st tenors next give the Prince's address to the soldiers. The reply corner from the full chorus, call- in, upon the trumpets for the righting of Cambria's wrongs, and vowing that for her freedom they will win or die. This closes the movement. The second opens with the full chorus, calling upon tho trumpets to sound, and upon each other to be faithful, while predicting a complete victory. This movement is full of martial strains calculated to rouse the most lethargic of the Cymry to lie true till death. The third and most dramatic movement begins with the 2nd bass, rumbling, as it were, in far distance. The strain is taken up in turn by the L t bass.. 2nd tenors, au\i laAly by the 1st tenors, when the full force aud mean- ing of a traitor" is felt. Then succeeds a musical babel, which culminates in the fall of Cambria's gallant chieftain. This is followed by a short dirge-like movement for a double trio, describing the approach of a monk to administer the rites of the Church to the departing soul of the fallen hero. The fourth is a siiort but beautiful movement which introduces the fifth and last movement, a prayer over the remains of the hetrayed and dead leader. This maestoso move- ment is indeed sweet, and is the wail of a defeated nation as they pray to God to defend them and guard their heloved country. We predict a great run for this new national anthem, for such it is, though au elaborate one. Let us hope that Wales in the great crisis she is passing through will remember the fall of Llewelyn, and callupoll the God of their fathers for aid before and not after the battle has been lost.
EBBW YALE COUNCIL.
EBBW YALE COUNCIL. Finance meeting, Thursday. Present, Messrs. LyonH, J.P. (chairman), K Harris, T. Thomas, M. Warnes, A. Jones, R. H. Williams, W. II. Powell, and Richards.—The vouchers for cheques signed at the last monthly meeting were examined, and the finance statement was considered. —The Collector produced his report and list of arrears.— The Ebbw V Ille Company's charges for gas service pipes were considered, and the matter was adjourned.—Two tenders were received for the posting stations and that of Mrs. Williams was accepted.—The estimate for new district rate was considered, and it was put at Is. 3d.—The question as to additional remunera- tion to the Clerk of the Council respecting the District Council's election was considered. --Attention had been drawn to the obtaining of clerks from Newport in connection with the election, aud it was thought that there were clerks in Ebbw Vale who could have done the work quite as well. —It was decided to refuse additional remuneration. A general meeting was held after the termination of the finance meeting, the same mem Iters heing present.—Tho Medical Officer's report was lead the nsalth of the district was satisfactory, although there were a good many cases of influenza. —The Finance Committee's report was read and continued.—Corres- pondence was read from the clerk to tho County Council, with reference to the main roads agreement, which vvas accepted.—Dr. Davies was re-apointed medical officer of health on the proposition of Mr. Richards, and Mr. R. J. Owens was re-appointed inspector on the proposition of Mr. Powell.- It was reported that the question (if a School Board for Ebbw Vale parish was in the same position as it wa- nt tho previous meeting. — The Surveyor's and bisector's reports were read aud considered. -1 t was stated that a good many water-pipes had burst, and the frost was still in a largo number of taps, com- pletely blocking the same. -The Clerk's letter to Mr. Shepard, with reference to the water supply to Pen- mark, and his rnply thereto were considered, and the matter was left for further consideration.—The Clerk submitted his report as to the county boundaries. The matter of combined drainage was brought liP, but nothing was done.—Correspondence was read from the Local Government Board with to the appointment of overseers under the Local Govern- ment Act of 1894.—The matter was adjourned, further information to be supplied the Local Government Board on the matter. —With reference to the open drain at West End-terrace, this .natter was being attended to by the Ebitw A ale Company,—Mr. Harris (Beaufort) having previously drawn attention to the state of the retaining wall at River-row and the bridge near the Old Furnaces, a letter was now read from Mr. Thompson, agent to the Duke of Beaufort, stating that the wall and bridge were ou ground leased by the Ebbw Vale Company, who were responsible for the proper repair, and the Council decided to accordingly write to the company on the matter.—It was reported that no answer had lteen received to the clerk's letter to the owners of the Brierly Hill Estate, with reference to the Drysiog- street closets.—With reference to Mr. Joseph Price reuse of the old PostOfticeshoppremises at Beaufort, as a common lodging-house, Mr. Price stated that only weekly lodgers were kept there.
CONCERNING THE ALL-NIGHT BALL.
CONCERNING THE ALL-NIGHT BALL. The Nonconformist Conscience at Brynmawr. Just now the chief topic of conversation at Brvll- mawr is the ball question. The fact,trotlies-e-- Some peoplo in the town were desirous of holding an all-nigut ball, and made application to Mr. Evans, the toll-collector, for the use of the new Market Hall for the purpose. Mr. Evans duly laid the applica- tiou before the Urban District Council, who have the letting of the hall, and asked what was to be the charge. A somewhat lively discussion ensued. Some of the councillors protested against the hall being granted for the ball. A vote was taken, and there was a. majority for the application being granted. The charge was put at £ 2 10s. from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. 011 the following morning, and 5s. for every extra hour. One of the councillors wanted to charge £ 10 for the night. The promoters of the ball having got for the night. The promoters of the ball having got the use of the hall, went to the expense of printing tickets, bills, &c. In the meantime the Noncon- formist ministers of the town heard of the incident, and at a subsequent meeting of the Council attended in a boùy to get the question further sifted, and spoke against balls m general as not being conducive to a healthy state of morality, Tt was stated at the meet- ing that there was no music-hall licence for the hall, so that the ball could not he held, and a reply was sent to the promoters of the ball, pointing out that circumstance. The promoteis, after receiving the letter, put the matter iu the hands of Mr. T. G. Powell, solicitor, und threatened an action against the Council for breach of contract. A meeting of the Council was summoned for Thursday last, March 18th, to consider this letter. Mr. Puxty, one of the chief promoters of the ball, attended the meeting. An animated discussion took place. Some of the councillors wanted to prevent the ball being held and take the risk of legal proceedings for breach of con- tract. The majority, however, wished to avoid that, and ultimately it was carried that the promoters yf the hall should be allowed the hall free of chargt for 15 hours, providing the promoters took no legal pro- ¡ ceedings. The promoters were to pay for gas and to indemnify the Council from all action taken in the matter in consequence of there Iteing no dancing licence for the hall. Mr. Puxty signed a note con- matter in consequence of there Iteing no dancing licence for the hall. Mr. Puxty signed a, note con- senting to these arrangements. So the ball will con- sequently be held. A good deal of feeling has been aroused in the town over the matter. A representative of the MtrlKvr I TihUi interviewed several prominent townspeople 011 the topic, and elicited various expressions of opinion. A reverend gentleman was the tirjt he saw. "What is your opinion of dancing Mr. —- y asked the reporter. ¡ I don't believe in it, and Scripture goes against it:" And if you had your way you would not allow this all-night ball we hear so much talk about 9 "Just so." What do you think of the action of the Council in the matter?" I blame them for not refusing to let the hall despite the threat of legal proceedings. A townsman in Beaufort-street was next button- holed by the pressman. Of course, you know all about this bait business?" Oh rather. All rot about a dancing licence being required for the hall." But the law says so." Then how altout the National School and other places where dancing taketl place" What about the Council's action in this matter t Hard lines that they should/be interfered with. Why, if one kind of dancing is attacked, other forms should also I >e seen to. Do not the children at one of the day schools dance ? Then what altout the kius- in-the-ring, Ac? That goes on when the Sunday schools have their annual tea meetings. What is sauce for tho goose is sauce for the gander, and kiss- in-the-ring is quite as bad as dancing." The third pitrty, the Mcrthj'r Times man got hold of was most emphatic in his denunciation of dancing in general. He certainly did not believe in it. What have you to say about the Council ? I am surprised that they should grant the appli- cation after all. 4 But what else could they do ? Stand legal proceedings, of course," And who's to pay?" The ratepayers." But they'grumble about heavy rates already They would not mind it in this case. If you had a public meeting to-night you would hud the feeling very strong, and the people 10 to one agaiust the hall being let far the ball. I daresay we shall hear of this matter again.
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T CURE FITS T Ati'-i to pre* e this to you. i! you are i;<?rsst-"< 1 will fyTt j'O" 8 J:o.!i<ro' !i;y v for nothing .-o that v;,n jr.sv have tno c nance- to srv it be tore pr'yitit; oul-auy tvotiev, be- cause 1 nnvc evc-rv coufiiitncc in n-v rerueclv. ;ind I run sure P. trial of it win i amviiuV- yr of its .-tt i lins merit. I have made'a liie-I'utjr SIIK'.V C! l it 1'piU p'-v FaHhig Sickness, nr.! -,vh-»ti 'l s:.y "CUM.io H-.t ineaH FaHhig Sickness, nr.! Wht"!1 I ,y .CU.f. do n-.t ineaH merely to stop them f"ra time, e.nd then hr.\e irrm jf- tnru Rjjaia but a r.Vicp.l CURE, nowise oiht rs i-a\ ? Jailed to relieve von, i- a <ocd reswKt u iiv v>n continue to suffer. Setid -d. for carriage ol V-r ir»-»<i.,e, testimonials, aud Iree bottle of ti'ertk-ine ar.d R r MR. H, 6. ROOL58-5- Sri.rHor.iNH l/onox is inimical to even' Kind of Spoi. f?iOlet', Rash, Pimple Eczeniatoiw Rousfhuess und Cra'-kinc; also alin absolutely destructive of a £ enns causing trouble to the Sinn Advt. A BRACING TOXIC.—-Pepper's Quinine and Iron reno»ates the most broken constitution to Health, Strength, Energy 1'- THE FOITTY-FIFTII GREAT ANNUAL SALE OF FURNITURE PREVIOUS TO STOCKTAKING In B E V A N AID CO M P A N Y (LIMITED.) "THE CARDIFF FURNISHERS." IS NOW PROCEEDING, AND "lLL CONTINUE THROUGHOUT THE MONTH OF MARCH, During which period their JiuDicnse Stock of FURNITURE, CARPETS, FLOOR CLOTHS, LINOLEUMS, ORGANS, PIANOFORTES, &c., &c., Will be Offered at such ridiculously Loir Prices as uiust cfleet a Clearance. DO YOU WANT A GOOD OIIGAN OK PIANOFORTE V Now is the time to obtaiu one at about half price. N.R—TIIE UKLY ADDRI^S&S AKE AS FOLLOWS- M, DUKE STREET, AND OPINJS1XE THK CLARENCE STREET, >7, ST. MAR\ STREET, TOWN HALL, HANBURY ROAD, CARDIFF. NEWPORT. PONTYPOOL. I'riuteJ and puWished ¡'y the TIMES PRINTING COM r ANT, Juhn etieet. Merthyr TJIi'r Th-"n-d"t/, -;th,
MANAGEMENT OF liORSES UNDERGROUND.
MANAGEMENT OF liORSES UNDER- GROUND. We have been favoured with an advance copy of Mr. J. E. Davies' pamphlet upon the "Management of horses underground." The writer is au Aberdare man and brother to the well-known instructor, Mr. T. E. Davies, of the Aberdare Mining Schools. The pamphlet deals with the great importance of economical management of colliery horses. The life of a colliery horse is estimated at eight years, but the writer says this depends to a great extent upon the treatment given to the animals. The water bodies should have a plug hole at the bottom, a thing too often neglected. Food bags should not be allowed to remain Ion;? upon the horses' necks, because they are heavy. The management should provide mangers upon all the double partings, so that the horses may feed whilst they arc waiting their turn. Overwork is too often practised in our collieries. Mr. Davies instances one horse which, he knew, had worked twelve turns in tho same week. Apart from the crufclty to animals by such treatment, the life of the horse is shortened considerably. Prizes are given at some collieries for the liest kept horse. This should bo encouraged everywhere; it says altogether the book is well arranged and contains some very useful hints as to the cause and treatment of certaiu diseases from which the animals suffer. Everybody who has a horse or has charge of one would do well to purchase this jjennvworth of information.