The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

TALYBONT PREETATIOS.-Oll Thursday evening, December :2Qrh, a meeting was held at the Congregational Chapel to present Mr Thomas Henry Kemp, late headmaster of the British Schools, with a testimonial, on the oc- ctsi n of his leaving the village to taKe charge (f the British Schools at Machynlleth. The testimonial con- ,iste(I ,of an address, a purse of gold, aud an oil paint- ing of Mr Kemp, the last being spcially presented by the old pupil tCleh. rs. The ciiitir I)y Nir Edward Jones, C.C.. Elgar, who, in h s opening re- marks, briefly summarised the steps that had been taken to form the testimonial Mr John Pntchard traced the history of education at Talybout during the last thirty years, pointing out the remarkable change whicn the country had undergone with regard to ideas of education. Mr Kemp had practically raiser1 the school into the foremost rank amongst elementary schools. The annual reports of H.M.I., were most satisfactory and the prestige of the school was such thiit the pupd ;eicher^ on the completion of their aps-rentic- ship invariably secured excellent appoint- ments. A man of exceptional enrgy and of brd iant talents he had formed and conducted science classes in such a manner as to obtain marvellous results. Nor did he confine his labours to th school-room tor he was ever taking a leading part in all movements that made for the amelioration d the cc)iiiiiiiinity-p )Iitical, liter- ary and religious. Mr David Edward*, in his usual vigorous srylc, gave an a 'count of the pad Mr Kemp had taken in the musical education of the neighbour- hood, always ready with his active assistance as accompanist. Nnue felt more keenly the loss of Mr Kemp than did thn-e who were specially interested in music. Captain John Hughes, Hon. Nee. of tlJe testi- monial fuud, having read the list or eOlltrihlltors, among whom weft the names of ,eii,lc-iiieti holding Iesponsible positions in India and in several of the chief tout's in England, proceeded to read the follow- ing address which had been received from friends ill Columbia, South America, accompanied by the sub- stanial donation of £ 10. Aneirhiad i Mr T. II. Kemp, diweddar ysgolr'eistr, British School, Talyliont, Ceredigion ANWVIJ SYK,—Xis irallun ddcsrifio i chwi mewii ;{ciria'1 ein teimladau pan v cyrhaeddodd y newydd tt-ist o'ch bwriad i yinadaul a hell ardal enwog Talybont ar ol hod yn trig-ialllltl ynddi ir.yinaint o flynyddoedd. H'rth edryeh yn oi ar yr ade pan y daethoch i'radal yn ll»n^cyn ieuanc dibrofiad mae liawer diywv- ddiad uedi cymeryd lie. Mae y rhai oedd ieuanj;c yr ade<f hono, wedi t.vfu yll!anol oed, y canol oed wedi myried ,1'11 hen, ar hen wedi lhoddi i fymi ei orchwyl a myned i nosw.vlio. Dianiheu ireiiyni eich hod niewn pryder dw.vs pan yn san-ju trothwv eich bro e!\(di!!ol i ddod i blith estroniaid i 4}lI1cl'yd yofal a iiyNiri! v plane nad oeddynt yn hyddysjr old niewn ychydijr eiriau o'ch iaith. Xid hychan oedd eich eyfrifoldeb, ac yr oedd calon liawer mi yn etiro rhair ofn v buasai eich ynidrech yn fethiant ond y mae yn dda yfenym er eieh holl anhawsderan, eieh bod wedi inwy n, llamv disjfw.viiadau paw!) yn yr ardal. ,\1"\1'11 ar ol eich dyfodiad daeth yr oedd dan eich g'0fal yn un o'r rhai tnwyaf blodeuoff yn yr ardal ar iiyniydo^aetli ae y mae yn ddiddadl jjenyni y buasai yn parhau am flynyddoed i ddod alii liae fod arjren yn ^orfodi tuluoedd i syinud a thrwy hyny yn am- ddit'adu yr ysirol or plant.i ehyfyimasoeh pich (I a'ch dysir yiOinij; "I' I's"ol oedd dan eich "ofal olld buoch holl yn oynorthwyo pob nnidiad n'i oedd ai amean i ddyrehafu a llnsoli dynol'uv'th. Yr oeddych bib ainser ar y blaeti uyda phob inudiad daionus. Amser a ballai i m ddes<rrifio y lies a ddeilliodd i'rarJal drvvy eich dylamvad yydar "Band of Hope," Good Templars," Cyfarfod C;, stadleuol, yr Vs^ol Hii', &e., ac yn en- wediif trwy eieh eymeriad pur a dis^laer yn hyn yr oeddeeli yn yn ddial bydd yn vvio drwif sjenym, os caniatajrhaiduniaeth i ni gael san'„'u tir Cymru, yn ellwedi lien ardal Talybont saul fod eich lie yn wag-, Ond y mae yn ffynoriell fysur a llawenvdd i chwi pan yn v nadacl o'r ardal cieli hod wedi bod yn foddion yri law Duw i roddi hyfforddiant i Lranoedd o fechif.vn yr ardal sydd heddyw n llanrv eykhoedd pwysiy ineivii cynideithas y rhai y mae en dylamvad YII j^yfrvw ac sydd YII hawliooael en hedmyiju. Mac rhai o honoin a sjawsant eu hytforddi frenych wedi eu hall- tudio yn nihell o'u cartref ac oddiwrtl. ^yfciliion |i n byw niewn gwlad estronol er hyn i,i d nid yw y pellder sydd rhyn^om wedi oeri dim ar ein srh an cariad fna^ atoeh. Yr ydymjyn e\ fln i no i chwi yr ycn.vduj hyn, yehydij; vdyw, ond y mae wvdi earl ei roddi o ewyllys dda calon pob un o honom a dyinuniad yr oil o | honom yw ai fod i chwi fwynhan pob cysur a det1wydd'leh pan yn teithio lhvbyr nawnddydd byu-.d. A phan y bydd edau eieh b.vwyd wedi dirwyn i ben hydded ir efe y buoch y inor diwvd iw wasanaeehu trvw eich bvivydil ar v ddaear eieh cyniervd atto i fwynhau yr crffwysfa nefol yada'r gwaheddiad tyner Va was, da a ff.\ddlawn, Imost ffyddlawn ar yebydi.n' mi a'th osodaf ar lawer, do< i mewn i lawenydd d.v Ar.dwy.ld. (lyda |dvnnnifadau tiiag atooh i r ei.ldoeh yn serchus, It. Davies, John O. James, Joseph James, Will Itolberts, John Morgan, .John O.-ven, Mr David Williams, treasurer, in a short speech ùesprihpd the difficulties of the teacher's office and the .signal nnmierin which Mrlvenmbv his tiff, energy, ami resource hid surmounted these difficulties. lie then presented the address which was as followi.- Mr Thomas Henry Kemp. Head Master of the Talybont British School, Cardiganshire, Undergraduate of London University. SIR,—We, the committee appointpd to represent the Con- gregational Church assembling at Talybont, Cardiganshire, iieg to assure you that, though deeply regretting your departure from fiinongst us, wacongratulate YuU most heartily upon your promotion to the wider sphere of iisefilliess which awaits you at Machynlleth. e would recognise your I eminent services in this place and neighbourhood as an elementary and science teacher at the British School for the I long period of 28 The great number of young men and 1 women that have been under your tuition, and now hold honourable positions not only in the home country, I)iit in varions p:u.ts of the world, is an amide proof of your teaching abilities. Moreover, during the whole of that period, you have always been foremost in promoting every movement tending to the welfare of the church as well as the com- zttiinity at I,o ilielitif)ll one or two matters, you have always, and that gratuitously, presided at the harmonium at our church. You have been for IIlIlny rears secretary of our Sunday School, and you also acted as secretary of the Build- ing rund Committee whilst the chapel was being re-built. In consideration of the eminent services adverted to above, we have great pleasure in presenting you with a small testimonial amounting to t'JS 7s 3d, contributed hy friends far and near, as a token of their esteem and admiration of you, with ardent wish that you Illay enjoy a most happy life in the future.—R. E. J ones (chairman), Jno. ITughcs (secretary). Dd. Williams (treasurer), William Jones, Pen- ponipren. E. Jones, C.C., Elgar, Evan Jones. Jno. Pritchard, Edward Evans. Mr E Pritchard, in presenting the printing on behalf of the old pupil teachers, assured Mr Kemp that they were keenly alive to the obligations they were under to him that as their experience increased and their opportutiiti-s of comparing their old school with some of the foremost elementary schools in the kingdom multiplied, they were impressed with the .superiority of their eirly surroundings, and especially with the excellence of the training they had received during their apprenticeship. He (Mr Kemp) gave thPln wise and reliable rules of conduct which had since been of grett service to them. The whole tenour of h:s l,fe, although they were then too inexperienced and possibly too indifferent to analyse it. they now found to have hen marked by wonderful restraint and dignity Thuy could never hope to repa.y him, but they were deeply grateful to him and scattered as they now were over the whole kingdom, when they met, the mention of their old master's name never failed to call up a smile of gladness and gratitude. He would remind Mr Kemp that the best reward for his labours was the proud consciousness that for over a quarter of a century he had led a life of unfaltering loyalty to the highest ideals of a teacher. On behalf of his old colleagues he wished Mr Kemp a I )rlg lif, of a\¡nnthnt happiness and prosperity.—The Hon. Sec. tlicii read several letters from gentlemen who Wpre well acquainted with Mr Kemp, and who all referred to him in eulogistic terms. Amongst others from whom letters were received, were Messrs William William?. Jno. Kvans and Short, three of H.M.I, of Schools Fryer Evan*, solicitor, Aberystwyth Evans, Hammersmith MofTatt and Paigf*, and the Revs D. Adams, B.A. and J. Davies, Bethesda.— Mr Jones, Penpompren. in presenting the purse, referrei in sympathetic terms to the special loss which the church would incur by Mr Kemp's (lepitrtiire.-After Mr J. J. Pritchard had recited congratulatory Englynion which elicited mnch applause from the audience Mr Kemp was called upon to replv, and was received with great enthusiasm. He said that the circumstances of the mf-eting were to him unique and he felt at first somewhat unnerved. He was pleased that foremost among,t those who took part in making the presenta tions were the very men who had co-worked with him the first week he came to Talybont in 1865. rfe thanked the old pupil teachers for the splendid portrait. It was verv Y)IeaRing to him to know that even as far back as last May, when it was not known that he was leaving Talybont, some of his old co- workers and ex-scholars should propose in a very substantial manner to show him respect. He had always hpen happy in his work at Talybont, and could only wish it were possible to begin again, b cause he saw many blunders he might have avoided, and many things he might have done. He loved the work of teaching. To communicate fresh ideas to young, willing minds, unspoiled by the world to watch the gradual change as evil traits of character unexpectedly are found to have been undermined to have the appreciation of old scholars, especially after they had left the neighbourhood, and had matured their opinions —those were some of one's professional pleasuies. A successful village school called for co-operation, general good will, and much confidence. These he had had. He could not have done his best without them. He had never been worried and therefore he could work hard. His pupil teachers would remember many years of class work commenced at 7 a m. In country places pupil teachers worked under special dIfficulties, with no cen'ral classes, no competition, and ignorance' the of outside world and thev wanted stimulus. He was proud of his old pupil teachers. To him ^alybont had been a very lively place, The little girl frum London prefered Talybont because there were more people iu Talybon: than in London." He could truth- fully say that Talybont was toe most lively place he was ever in. What was life? To see others live, and to be alive? Here there was always good work to do—children to be trained and sent forth as misaion- TI,;„ K„ „ —f„_ w.i. J ttUCft, -L JI I o OCUUlCll l>'> IJr. ct Op UldllLtJ 1111 11 nltJS, atilt especially for North Ordiganshiie. At Talybont he had opened his eves to know what children could do. Toere were !irnit;lIg ciremrstancps that preventr1 development,, hut on the children's side the capacity for improvement was beyond whu. they yet concaved. Fifty YClp ago the t-'chool was opened on the birthday of AlbeIt Edward, Prince of Walp, I)v .col) jo,e,, whose r.ame is ever mentioned with respect, and although the time "as very «hort in which he acnl as ;cliooljii-,ts'er he left ai-i excellciit impression. He (Mr Iv mp! would bc gad to helieve that during th^ past; 28 year.? h reputation of the fchool had been main-j iaiacd. He hoped that his successor would receive fair play and every eiicoill "g",Ill, lit, thai he might work unshackled; that he might do his best for the chi-dren, the school and the district. Mr Kemp con- cluded by heartily thanking all for the long year;, of kindness, trust and uuwaveriug support. He could never hope to live with kinder friends and neighbours, The prosperity of the place would always be one of ilL first wishes, the real success of his old scholars a source of greatest happiness.—After the usual votes of thanks had been passed to the chairman, and the choit. h>d sung, the proceedings were brought to a eloe. Gie-it praie is uue to the hon. sec. Captain .Jno. Hughes and the treasurer gMr D. Williams, for their indefatigable efforts in the interests of: the testimonial and for the excellent arrangements which resulted in such a successful meeting. I

DOLGELLEY. WATCHXICIHT.— On Saturday night the usual Watch- night services were held at the Wesleyan Chapel, under the presidency of the Rev. Evan Evans, Bar- mouth, and the eonductorship of the Rev. Ben Davies, ): stalyfera. The following took part in the inusicri programme which was provided The Rev. Hen Davies, Miss Mary E. i%l,,i-g iii,P,r,.v, irn, Aberystwyth, Ebenezer Party, Mr Norman McLeod Jones, Miss Madge Roberts, and Llew M-'inon. The Rev. Evan Evans gave an address on "The Aim of Life. There was a large congregation SPORT.—Mi Taylor's (Cliffy) gamekeeper on Friday, the 23rd December, shot eight woodcocks, which were in splendid condition. On the following Mondav. several well-known sportsmen, among whom were Dr John Jones, Messrs \V. H. Jones, Caerffynon, E. Wynne Williams, W. Evans, of Birmingham, O. O. Roberts. Board School, left in a break from the'(Jolden Lion Hotel for a days coursing at Dinas Mawddwy, and took with them three fine greyhounds. A good day's sport was enjoyed, after which the company sat down to a sumptuous dinner at the Buckley Arms Hotel. After the table was cleired, several humorous songs were given and speeches made on the advantages of the kuid of sport to the mind and body, and the company then enjoyed a pleasant ride hack to town.

PENCADER. LiTERARY MEKTING —The annual competitive meet- ing wm he'd on the evening rof Boxing; DjY. under the auspices of the Society of R"chahites, The meeting wis held in the Boa-cl School, which was uncomfort- ably crammed Much rowdin-s^ prevailed during the evening. The Chairman, Rev J. T. Hughes, vicar, repeatedly appealed for silence, but to no purpose. Thera was a very lengthy programms to go through, but several item* had to he struck out. Appended is a list of tho'e items that were, with difficulty, gone through Solo, Gwna poh petn a wnai fel Cymro pur," twelve competed, and the prize "ças awarded to Sim Jones. Dolbantau. Translation from English to Welsh of Vision of M'tza," prize was divided be- tween Rces Rees, Castle-road, P»rcadf-r, and David Felix, Llanybvther. Due* "Y lili dlos," (1) two friends from Glanewilly. Three stanza1'to the Pen- cader Graiiimat- School," prize divided between David Felix and Dewi Dvar, Llanybvther. Tenor solo I I Bwthvii bach melyn fy Nhad," four competed, and the prize awarded to Smi .Ton^s. Dolbantau. Male voice partv, "Awn tna.'r Citlfteq." (1) L'anyhythcr Male Voice Party. Six reasons for "T.,til Abstin- ence." (1) David Felix, L'anybvther. Q.1IH.rtette. Y Deigryn." (I) D. Tones. AUtywalis, and party. Elegy to the late Rev R. P. Jones, Peneader. (1) John Isa-C: Thomas. Liandvsstil. Essay. "Y Mod(lion gore-, i wplla. Cymdeithas," prize divided between illvid Felix, Llanvbyther. and David .Tm-iets. Taltrnd. Two epigrams to "AfonTalog," (1) Ben Davies, ^"ffryn I ies, ,Ihlentyll Cor(lyn. Soprano solo, Cryd gwag fy ",hlenty» yw." prize divided between Patty and BIodwen. "Best love letter" This seemed to hpfe beon a favourite item for an enormous number ofcnmpetitions had been received. The prize was a,car<lefl to one bearing the name lenan Lloyd, wh" (11d not answer to his name. Baritone solo, Rh,s a)1 Goronwv,' prize divided between two friends. Recitation Can gwraig v Meddwyn," (1) Sam jitles, spinner, Port- shan. Solo, Dowch adref f" nhad," (1) Saraii Thomas. Trawsnant. Beat r^n^er^n? of Nant y Mvnydd," (1) Glan Teify Chr'T (Ll^nfihangel-ar-Arth). The adjudicators were Air x;rilliani Lewis, A.C., Llan- gyfelach, on the singing. H. James, C.C.. Bei'ybedw, on the poetr" &c- From a financial point of view th meeting \'18'; a success.

A BE R i'ST Vv i TH. ) )WX COUNCIL, TRVST>AY, JANTAKY 3RD, present: Mr Ul am Thoruar, mayor; Aldermen Peter .Joues, C. M. Williams, and George Green, Councillors! Griffith Willi tms. D. C. Roberts, John Mathns, T. W. Powell, Dr T. Davies Harries. Joiin Jenkins, Robert Doughton, Isaac Hopkins, and John Edwards, Mr Arthur J. Hughes, town clerk, Mr H. L. Evaas, borough accountant, and Mr Rees Jones, borough surveyor. POSTAL SERVICE. The question ,f tiie acceleration of the postal service .as brou ht forward in committee, when a letter com Mr Aslett, secretary to the Cambrian Railway, vas read. After some discussion, Mr ROBERT ELLIS proposed, and Mr GRIFFITH WILLIAMS seconded that i deputation consisting of the Mayor, the Ex-mayor 'Mr W. H. Palmer), Mr D. C. Roberts, an1 the Town Jlerk (with power to add to their number if necessary) diouid be appoiated to interview the Postmaster- J-eneral. Mr DOITGHTON asked if power was delegated to the deputation to add to their number from other towns, if it was deemed expedient. Alucrmaa C. M. WILLIAMS said that rested with the Committee. Trie proportion was agreed to. THE LEASE YCESTION. The Towv CLERK said he had written to Col. Luar.i ivh'i held the inquiry with reference to the lease qnestii n, and Col. Luard replied that he had sent his report to the Local Government Board, who would coo inimieato with the Council in the matter. He ha n iv re a letter from the Local Go, ern- in nc Board applying for a copy of the existing lease, which he bad sent. ASSOCIATION OF .MUNICIPAL CORPORATIONS. A communication was read from the Association of Municip,d Corporations desirins to know whether the Council wished to become a candidate for membership of the Uouncil of the Association aud, if elected, whether they would be prepared to send up a lepre- sentative or representatives. I The Council agreed to become a candidate and the Town Clerk was directed to write to that effect. FINANCE COMMITTEE'S REPORT. Mr D. C. ROBERTS read the minutes of a meeting of the Fiaaaee Committee held at the Corporation Offices on Monday, December 26th, present, Mr William Thomas, mayor, Aldermen Peter Jones and C. M. Williams, Messrs John Mathias, T. W. Powell, Isaac Hopk ns, D C. Roberts, chairman, borough surveyor and borough ace -)ttntazit. -L-.ibour sheets and bills due amounting to £ 228 9s. :3d. were examiwed and passed. —It was agreed to recommend that the application of Mr Jenkin Jones for a renewal of the lease of his property, Xo. (S3, North Parade, be granted on the following terms, via—Tha the present building be dem,Ii,iht k, ar.d the premises be treated as a building site at a frontige reutal of 3s. Gd. per foot.—An appli- cation of Mr A. Perry for a renewal of the lease of his property in Brewer-street was not entercained as the *tree £ had been ,-chedtiled. -Three applications for renewals were deferred tor further consideration. Propo-.ing the adoption of the report, Mr ROBERTS asked to be allowed to include in it the quarterly pay- ment to ihe Fire Brigade which had been inadvertently omitted. Alderman C. M. WILLIAMS seconded the adoption of the report with the addition. Alderman GREEN said he should like to know, anent Mr Jenkin Jones's application, how the terms com- pared with the terms that had been previously granted iu North-parade. Mr T). C. ROBERTA said he did not know of any case in North-parade WIWl:e the Council treated the same as they did Mr Jenkin Jonei. Perhaps Mr Green would enliglven them upon the matter as to which ease he referred to. Alderman GREEN said that the case was a very recent one, and was the cslebrated c-,se of the Misses Owen. Mr ROBERTS said they had to pay front-age. They only treated the case in the ordinary way. In the present case the building was dilapidated, and as the owner was prepared to demolish it, they, consequently, treated it as a site. He thought it more of an advantage to Mr Jenkin Jones. Alderman GREEN said that what he wanted to get at was the difference. Mr ROBERTS said that they could not compare them on a question of charge of frontage. Alderman UREES—Oh, well. Mr JOHN EDWARDS inquired as to who were a certain J. G. rdon and Son among the bills on the agenda, and what the amount of £ 35 16s Od was for. Alderman JONES explained that he had not the pleasure of knowing the gentlemen personally- (laughter)-but the amount was for curb ssonea. A tender from Messrs Gordon was accepted by the Council, and the amount was based up JU that tender. The report was adopted. PITBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE'S REPORT. A meeting of the Public Works Committee was held at the Corporation Offices on Monday, the 2<ith December, present, Mr Wm. Thomas, mayor. Alder man C. M. Wi iiams, Messrs Griffith Williams, John Jenkius, John Mathias, Isaac Hopkins, Alderman Peter Jones, chairman, Borough Surveyor, and Borough Accountant.—The labour sheets and bills relating to the department were examined and passed. —It was recommended that the plans of new build- ings in Llanbadarn road, proposed to be erected by Mr T. H Jones, be, as altered, approved of.—It was recommended that the Borough Surveyor be requested to arr trg- terms with carriers f >r the cartage ot about fifty loads of (day from the Corporation fields to the new service reserN-oir.- Loveden-road Your com- mittee instructed the Borough Surveyor to advertise for drain pipes for the drainage of this road. Alderman GREEN regretted he was not present at the meeting of the committee owing to not receiving his notice io time in consequence of the holidays, and asked what was the main objection to the first plans produced hy Mr Tlios. Hugh Joues. The MAYOR said he could answer that question. The ro,d in front was stated to be too narrow, and consequently did not comply with the byelaws. Now the rrad would be wider and Mr Jones had complied with the byelaws. Ald-rman GREEx-But will the road be widened now ? The MAYOR—In front of the houses, I think. Alcierm&n GREEN—I do not see how it will be widened I d> not see it is possible. Aid rrn4ii PETER JONES said that when Mr Joues first submitted h s plans the width in front of the houses was something like fourteen feet, but the bye- laws required over thirty feet. Mr Jones, thereupon, presented smended plans and, in that modified form, they satisfie i and -A ere passed. Alderman GREEN—The backs are in front of my house. Alderman PETER JONES nodded in the affirmative. AHerman GREEN—Well, don't you think it is a most shameful thing to do. I have suffered so mush lately that I will not take this quietly. Alderman JONKS remarked that all the Council had to look to was that there was sufficient space in front and behind the houses, and that the sanitary arrange- ments complied with the byelaws. Alderman GKEEN—Then we are not to take into consideration how the town is being built. It may be destroyed, or Alderman JONES—We have nothing to do but see that everything complies with the bye-laws. Alderman GREEN-It is a scandalous and shameful thing to do. It is abominable. Alderm*- WILLIAMS—Well, that is a matter between Mr. Jones and yourself, Ir. Green. & Alderman GREE-l have suffered to the extent of several undnds of pounds. Alderman WILLIAMS—You know that has nothing to do with. us. Mr 1). C ROBERTS said that the property was vested in them. and they did what any private in iividual would do. Alderman GREEN said it was not fair, in order to get a little bit of thoroughfare, that the houses should be pushed in front of his house. Alderman J O ER propoe" the adoption of the report, when Alderman GREEN said he also did not understand the qnc i m of the carting of clay from the Corpora- tion fields. He thought it absurd to bring a matter before t;, Council for approval when it had been already carried out. The MAYOR—Alderman Jones only asks the Council to appr> v of the Committee's action Alderman GREE-It ought to have been brought forwarrl io the regular way. There was no hurry. Mr l/oroirroN then seconded the adoption of tha report, wh;ch was agreed to Aldei man JoXEs said that tenders had been invited for draining Loveden-road, and he proposed the accep- tance of the tender of Mr Jenkin Thomas, it being the lowest. Mr I), i" MTOX asked if the quality of the pipes in Mr Thomas'* ter,dcr were good, for he noticed 'hat the priC-I was much below that of the other tenders. Aldeninn PETER JONES said that the qualty of the pipes w s a roster for the Surveyor. The proposition was agreed to. Two tenders were opened for the work of drainage frori (,)tte to North-road—viz., from NVm. Edwards. Pentrebont. 3s. Id., and D,l:¡ie1 E,!ward. H'di-st eet. at 3". 2d. per yard. Mr Fop. INS said that; as there was only a differcn of a p'nnv lie .,veen th'- teuders, he proposed that t, e r't-naye. ;tN-e the choice. He ce stoo i fo i ratepay r- fj.pt. j Aldenu'n JONproposed that t'e Council1 i!;e ieuder ot Mr. WM. "Ir,l,, and i ri -.KLr.'>, curved tint he r-jd not know ct te, t, case.— c for tenders was left open. t Mr HOPKINS proposed that the tender of Mr. Danie J Edwards be accepted. ) Alderman JONFS — We had better stipulate that Wm. Edwards had better come and reside in town (Laughter.) Mr DoruiiTON observed that there was no stipula- tion that the person shculcl reside in the town, and therefore it was an open contract. The MAYOR—Will anyone second Mr Hopkins? Mr DOUOHTON (confidently)—No no one. (Loud laughter). There was no seconder to Mr Ho.pkins' proposition, and the tender of Mr Wni. Edwards was therefore accepted. MARKETS (;On;:iITTEE'S REPORT. There were present, at a -iiieetiii(t held on the 19th December, Mr. \Vm. Thomas (mayor), Messrs. John Mathias, John Jmkius, Robert Doughton, Isaac Hopkins, T. \V. Powell, chairman, Borough Surveyor, and Borough Accountant.—Tne bill of Mr. Thomas Hopkins, amounting to 1:101 0". 3 being the amount of contracts for stall", & was examined and passed.— It was recommended that the butchers'stalls be let at 2s. per single stall and 4s. per double stall per week, subject to three months' notice to quit on either side that tables 6 ft. long for poultry and vegetables be let at Is. each per week and that each butcher be required to place a signboard suspended to his stall with his name painted thereon. Mr T. W. POWELL proposed the adoption of the report. Alderman GREEN said he had heard that some of the butchers complained that the rates were too high. He did not know what the Committee said to that. Mr GRIFFITH W ILLIAMS said he had been told that the rates were just what the butchers desired and Mr POWELL said that the rates were paid with every willingness. Mr EDWARDS thought the tables should be three feet long and let. at üd. p?r week each. The report was adopted. HARBOUR ANNUITIES. On the proposition of Mr D. C. ROBERTS, seconded by Alderman WILLIAMS, it was resolved to order the payment of the Half-yearly Harbour Annuities on the P, sum of £15,;)H 18s. 4d., amounting to £ 195 19s. 9d. Mr EoWARDS said that there was BOW a large quantity of coal loaded at the harbour and he thought it would be an advantage if a weighing machine was put there. The MAYOR said that it was a good suggestion ard the matter had better be put on the agenda for the next meeting. RENEWALS. On the proposition of Alderman C. M. WILLIAMS, seconded by Dr HARRIES, applications for renewals of leases from Mr Thomas Ellis of his premises in Terrace Read, Mrs R. J. Davies of her premises in North- parade, and Miss Jones of her premises, No. 44, Marine Terrace, were referred to the Finance Com- mittee. GENERAL DISTRICT RATE. It was agreed to sign a General District Rate of Is. 41. in the 9, and to authorize the Mayor to affix the Corporation Seal thereto, on the proposition of Mr POWELL, seconded by Mr DOUGHTON. WATER RATE. On the proposition of Mr POWELL, seconded by Alderman C. M. WILLIAMS, it was resolved to levy a water rate of Is. in the f, and the Mayor was authorized to affix the Corporation Seal thereto. MOVEMENT FOR A NAVAL BATTERY. Mr D. C. ROBERTS moved (1) That having re- gard to the large number of members of the Royal Naval Reserve resident in Aberystwyth, it is desirable that provision should be made whereby they might complete their periodical drill in the town, and in order to bring the matter before the Lords of the Admiralty a Petition be, prepared and forwarded, and that the Mayor be authorized to affix the Corporation Seal thereto. (2) That assuming the Council have at their disposal a convenient site free from objection. the same be offered for the necessary battery. (3) That Mr W. Bovven Rowlands. Q.C., M.P., and Mr T. E. Ellis, M. P., be requested to use their influence in support of the Petition." Mr Roberts said that there were about one hundred members of the Reserve residents of the town and they were anxious that they should complete their drill at home instead of having to go to Carnarvon and other places as at present. They were either ratepayers or sons of ratepayers of the town and if a battery was established at Aber- ystwyth it would be a. great boon to them as well as a great advantage to the town, for he had no doubt the expenditure in the town would be over £1,000 per year. The Reserve were one of the better class and bore a good reputation. Also, being residents, there was not the slightest fear of there being much rowdy- ism. Some objection might probably be made to the firing of the guns, but if a s'te could be obtained near the Stone Pier it was enough to do away with the strongest objections. The guns were only nine pounders, a third of the guns at present on the Castle; therefore there could be no objection as regards them. It would be a decided advantage in the summer, be- cause visitors could be interested. It might also be pointed out that the Admiralty now paid the fares of the men from their homes and back again, which would amouattoaboutfIOOayear. Thecost of a battery wotdd be something, but that expenditure would be recouped in a short time by the doing away with the railway farr-s. As to the site, a very suitable one ex- < isted between the Stone Pier and the buildings on the Tanybwlch-road. The site was the most difficult obstacle to get through, but with one in view he thought their appl'cttion would be entertained, with the valuable aid of Mr Bowen Rowlands and Mr T. E. Ellis. He thought it opportune tint the Council should now take steps, and the First Lord of the Admiralty (Lord Spencer) would, perhaps, remembering his visit, look favourably upon Aberyscwvth. Dr HARRIES said that the feeling of the ratepayers and sailors was in favour of the movement. They now went away and spent their money away. He ccrn- currel with Mr Roberts in the belief that the only objection from the Admiralty would be as to the ques- tion of a tito. In 18S9 he was in communication with Lord George Hamilton, the then First Lord of the Admiralty, on the matter, and the chief objection then was a site. There could he no other objection. Dr Harries added It is a new Government audwe expect better things (hear, hntr)-if not, we must turn them out." (Laughter.) Mr DOUOHTON truiught it would foe advantageous to have a battery at Aberystwyth. ° The proposition was then put to the meeting and carried unanimously. On the suggestion of Mr D. C. ROBERTS, seconded by Mr POWELL, who thought the matter should be carried through as swiftly as possible, it was agreed that the Town Clerk should draw up a memorial, and that the Mayor should affix the Corporation seal to it. THE CARTINO OF (JBAVEL. An application was read from Mr S. H. Lewis, on behalf of Mr Powell, of Nanteos, for permission to cart gravel from the beach. Mr POWELL proposed that the application should be referred to the Public Works Committee. The MAYOR said that some time ago the Council pas-ed a resolution that no permission should he given to persons outside the borough to cart gravel away. Therefore it would be irregular to grant permission in the present instance without first rescinding that resolution. They would stultify themselves. ° The TOWN CLERIC, however, said he did not think there was any prohibition. Dr HARRIES thought it would be an advantage to cart the gravel away. (Oh.) He was prepared to sub- stantiate it. Aldermin GREEN observed that it was child's play referring the matter to a committee, and nrmioied 11 that the application should he granted I n Mr GRIFFITH WILLIAMS seconded the ainendnient and Mr MATHIAS the original proposition. Mr OOCOIITON remarked, amid much lanohter that if anything was conspicuous by its absence3 it w'as th<" gravel. If the Council allowed it to accumulate there would he a finer beach than there now was. The proposition was carried, upon being put to the meeting. THE ELECTRIC LIGHT SCHEME. Dr HARRIES having asked how this qufstion stood the BOROUGH SURVEYOR said that he had taken the levels in the Rheidol Valley in order to see what power was obtainable. He ascertained that it would be necessary to take the water in at the Gafarllwyd Falls l'here would be a fall of something over 200 fe°t He could not give the Council a detailed (stitnate of the cost that day because it required a very careful survev ot the ground, but, roughly, the cost, he ventured to say, tor a suitable water course would be l-etsvpon £ 1,000 and £ 1,500. ^etaeen Alderman GREEN—May I ask what are the dimen- sions he intends having for 2s 6d what ouantitv of water he jntends to briog, and what rights he would have. Mind I ask a practical question. Alderman JONES—I don't think it within the Sur- veyor's province that he should answer those practical questions. Alderman GREEN said he simply asked the question Alderman PJo:T/lR Jo-NFs-If we approve of this scneme then it i our duty to inquire into our ri»ht-- It m t "ici.in the province of the Surveyor to answer the questions now, for we did not instruct liiin as to I our right*. Al iei ni n GREEN.—'Then I ask the question as to tic d:rr,¡>l1si'Q,¡. The Bo RON; it SURVEYS.—I am .mtin a position 1011 a detai cd e.-timate now, but I v.-n ure to say t'- •• cos H ill he from £ 1.000 to £ 1,500. L A'derma.I GKEEN—Then your estimate is worth nulling -it -V ik'W. The SURVEYOR on may consider it no estimate at I i". I am not yet prepared to give vou a detailed estimate. Alderman GREEx-Then your estimate is of not much value. The SURVEYOR said he adhered to it. Dr HARRIES said they had not moved one peg, Mr Mr Green was one of the owners and would no doubt suppoit them. (Laughter.) Alderman GREEN.—Not this scheme. Dr HARRIES stid that they should take a horse and see that he had tour legs first. Mr Peter Jones knew hiimelf :.tnd Mr Gren knew ewrythiug about hims If. Alderman GREF.N*—I must correct that statement. Mr Green knows nothing about himself. (Laugnter.) Tne MAYOR did not think the Council could proceed further that thy. Dr HARRIES—We have not moved, Alderman GREEN—We have mo/ed backwards. Air ROBERTS proposed and Dr HARRIES seconded that the matter be referred to the Public Lights Co n- tnittee. Mr ROBERT ELLIS said that the reason why the com- mittee had not met iu the matter was that they were awaiting replies from Messrs Seimers Bros and they were aware the Surveyor was taking levels. Immedi ately everything was received the Committiee would meet. Tlie proposition was then agreed to, WEIGHING MACHINES AT THE HARBOUR The MAYOR remarked that since theC ouneil had sat, he had received a communication from C iptain Jenkins Haveiock Villa, with letereuceto having a weighing bridge at the Harbour as suggested by Mr Edwards Captain Jenkins, in his letter c,tl!ed the attention of the Council to the great tiettl for a weighing biidge on the Rowfawr for the convenience ot those having! wharves thereon and who directly benefited the rates by the payment of leuts and harbour due. It was the greittst lo-s a id inconvenience at present to have to weig i in different part of the town, and lie assumed it was not the desire of the council to hamper but to promote the development of the trade at the harbour. It was absolutely necessary and he felt sure the preliminary outlay would be recouped in a very short time. On the proposition of the MAYOR, seconded by Dr HARRIES, the letter was referred to the Harbour Com- iiiit ee and the Council rose.

LLANliADAUN FA WR. MARRIAGE.—The marriage of Mr Nathaniel Coles, of N-Vest Balston, near Holsworthy, N. Devou, with Miss Margaretta James, the second daughter of the late Mr David James, of Llanbadarn Fawr, was celebrated in St. Stephens' Church, Eiton, near Bury. Lanes, on Saturday last by the vicar, the Rev J. Linkfiekl, M.A. The church was full of friends. The bride, who was given away by her brother, Mr Lloyd James, wore a gown of grey Bengaline, trimmed with brocaded velve,t with a large Gainsborough hat to match, and carried an exquisite bouquet of flowers. The brides- muds were Miss Esther James, sister to the bride, Mi-s Nora Mucklow, Miss Debt5 Mucklow, and Mis-i Robinson, who each carried bouquets of red and white chrysanthemums, the gift of the bridegroom. Mr George aud Master Gerald Mucklow acted as best men. As the wedding party left the church the Wedding March" was played by the Organist. They afterwards reassembled at the residence of Mr AN-alter Mucklow and sat down to a sumptuous break- fast. The guests included Mrs Lloyd James, the Vicar nnd Curate, the Rev C. Bevan, and the heilth cf the happy couple was proposed by the Rev Mr Liinkneld and Mr Mucklow. Subsequently the newly married pair started for Southport on their honey- moon. The day was beautifully fine. The bride went awayjin a tailor made dress of heather mixture, with brown cloak aod hat to match. The following is a list of some of the presents Bridegroom to bride, diamond ring Mr VV. Mucklow. cheque; Mrs W. Mucklow, wedding dress M'sses N. and D. Muck- low, pair of new handsome vaees, splasher and pocket handkerchief case Mr and Mrs E. Mucklow, Grange- over-Sands, plush Album Master Gerald Mucklow, silver pepper box and oil paiiitinl, Mother of the bride, tea and dessert spoons Mr and Mrs John Evans, Laura-place, silver p;ckle fork Mr and Mrs Edwards, pair of vases; Miss Parry, Church- street, wine glasses and vaees; Miss James, silver tocgs and t"¡ cosy; Miss Esther James, doz. silver forks and knives Major and Mrs Wike, Elton, work box Rev and Mrs Griffith Parry, Llanbadarn, hand- some biscuit box Mr and Mrs Bentley, Bury, pair of cut glas-i decanters Miss Robinson, two silk cushions; Mrs Tattersall, Bury, cheese st-iiid Mr and Mrs Lloyd James, silver teapot, painted tabh cloth, cur- tain bands, pin cushion, and oil painting; Mr George, silver sugar basin and cream jug Miss Preston, pastry board and rolling pin a Friend, do/, silver tea spoons Miss Openshaw, pair of candlesticks Mrs Edwards, brass inkstand Miss Evans, bronze figures Mrs Howell, silver cruet stand Mrs Spencer, cushion a Friend, half doz. silver dessert and table spoons Rev and Mrs Lawson, half doz des-ert platts; Miss James, house linen, &c. Miss Caroline James, eider down quilt Mr and Mrs n. Williams, Hoylake, pair of teapot stand-i Mr an Mrs Edwards, Pwllheli, pair of orii imeiits.

TOWYN. SPORT.—Mr E. A. Orford, Brynffynon. has shot seven fine woodcocks during the last few days. The birds were in fine condition and had evidently reached these shores quite recently. SKATIc.The fine sheets of ice to the North and South of this town are attracting skaters from Ma.ch- ynlleth, Aberdovey, and other places. At the end of last and the beginning of the present week there were large and merry parties of the fashionable youth, male and female, of the district upon the ice which is per- fectly safe as the water is as shallow as it is extensive. This is a. source of real pleasure and healthy recreation ¡ during a time when there is not much of either except in favoured placej like this. AN AWKWARD MISTAKE.-One evening last week, while the dusk was thickening, a sportsman waited patiently for the wild ducks to come, but somehow they were late or had gone in search of other feeding ground that evening, but just as the monotony of the work and frost were getting the mastery of the sports- man his heart was gladdened by the dear and familiar sound of a number of hir-ds on a spot of unfrozen water near him and pre-ently he could see some dai-li objects I moving on the surface of the watei,. To take an un- erring aim and tire was the work of a moment, then there feil on his ears the s .uud of the telling effect of the shot in the way cf splashing,struggling,and quack- ing. The i-p- rt>mui rushed to the spot and si-cured time big birds which upon examination proved to be < three of his neighbour's tallJe geese. The disappoint- 1 r¡¡Clt was g eat, but: the only reparation possible t under i-as promptly made, that I of the and tender j J • one M'. oient for thein. With more experience j'J .a this sort will become fewer, t

COMPLIMENTARY BANQUET. On Saturday evening a complimentary banquet was given to Mr Joseph Bennett, London, who, for several yea's past, has given his valuable services as musical adjudicator at E steddfod Meirion, and by them has added considerably to the success and high standard of the institution. Mr Morris Jones. Piasucha. chairman of the Committee, presided Mr R. Jones Griffith occupied the vice-chad- and among those present were Mr Bennett, Mr C. E. J. Owen, Hengvvrtucha Mr Stewart, Air Furlons. Mr W. N. Griffith, Mr W. R. Davies, Mr J. H. Marshall. Mr T. P. Joaes-Parry, Mr E. Griffith, Maesybrynar Mr O. D. Roberts, Clogwyu Mr Pyemont, London; Mr R. Roberts, G.W.R.; Mr J. H. Jones, Piasucha Mr L. M. Lewis, University College, London Mr Norman McLeod Jones, R.C.M. Mr Maldwyn Humphreys, R,.A.M.; Mr Henry Pope, London Mr Wilfred Jones. R.A.ill.; Mr N. T. Williams. Mount Morgan Mr T. H. Roberts, Mr William Evans. Birmingham; Dr J. Jones,Caer- rfynon; Mr William Williatns, Caerynwch; Mr Vasco V. Akeroyd, and Mr V. Akeroyd, Liverpool Mr Lewis v\*iiliam.->, Dr Jelf Clarke, Mr Griffith Pierce, Mr Tom Parry, Mr W, D. Pugh, Mr Humphrey Pugh, Mr Evan Francis, Mr Henry Jones, Maesybrynar Mr J. C. Jones, Bethel Cottages Mr O. O. Roberts, Mr Edward Williams (Llew Meirion) and others. The banquet was given at the Lion Hotei. and was excellently entered. During the evening, songs were sung bv Mr Norman Jones, Llew Meirion, Mr Griffith Pierce, Mr Wilfred Jones, and Mr Roberts, Station. The loyal toasts having been duly received, Mr W. R DAVIES proposed Ei,-teddfod Nle rion," eayit), that he was told by Mr .0. 0. Roberts, one of the secretaries, that the institution had been in existence for nineteen years and was increasingly successful. The Committee, of which he had been an unwoithy member for seventeen years, did their best to select subjects for competition of high merit which, he thought, would bear comparison with tho-e of national eisteddfodau. (Hear, hear.) Again, in the selection of adjudicators the Committee desired to make such selections in that direction as to secure the confidence of everyone concerned. There was, he was glad to be able to say, no coteries or parochial feeling, it being the aim of the Committee to make everyone, no matter where he came from, go away with the feeling that he had had fair play. (Cheers.) The Committee owed a great deal to Mr Bennett—(cheers)_f0r the interest lie had taken for many years in the eisteddfod and for his criticism, his fairness and h's desire to enlighten the competitors on their weak points and the directions in which they should spek improvement. (Applause.) He (Mr Davivsi was glad to bp able to say that the gentry of the neighbourhord J¡¡cl very heartily seconded the efforts of the Committee in promoting the success of the eisteddfod. (Hear, hear.) Their secretaries, Mr O. O. Roberts and Llew Meirion, paid every attention to d^'ails they worked hard and spaied no pains in making the annual festival success- ful. (Cheers.) Mr E. GRIFFITHS, Maesyhrynar) and Mr W. WILLIAMS, Caerynweh, ackno\v[e(^get| the toast, the former thinking that the eisteddfod had done a great deal of good, and the latter (Mr Williams) remarking that each year the chair subject had been new and in- teresting. The institution had been a school for many, several of its members having already distingcishe I themselves at the Royal Academy, and the Royal College ot Music. (Cheers.) MrO. O. ROBEKTS, in a humorous speech, proposed the health of Mr Beunetf, whose presence always raised the merit of the eisteddfod, increased his popularity, and made it a Court of Appeal from even the national eisteddfod. (The toast was received with musical honours and Pob parch iddo.") Mr. BENNETT rose to acknowledge the toast, and was received with loud cheering. He informed all present that Mr W. H. Thomas, who represented him (Mr Bennett) at last year's eisteddfod, was confined to his room with a serious illness, but was now recover- ing, and had sent his be-t compliments to The boys of Dolgelley." (Cheers). He (Mr Benziettl thanked the company for the manner in which they had received the toast. He was sure their good feeling that night was as genuine and hearty as it was two years ago, when he last had the pleasure of standing before them. To a somewhat blase Londoii man who had too much of the Rear-Admiral who was sure the British Navy, if called upoD, would do as well as ever it did," Mr Roberts's speech was a new sensation, and one which remained upon his mind. He was exceedingly pleased with the speech, and with the way the company had received the toast, for which he was much obliged. (Applause). ::Mr R. JONKS GRIFFITH proposed the health of Mr Barrett, the flautist, and said he had made every effort to be present. The toast was heartily received. Mr W. R. DAVIES having read an englynion to Mr Bennett, Mr OWKN. Hengwrtmha, proposed the toast of "Music in Wales." observing that Wales main- tained her reputation for a musical nation, and had supplied the world with some of her greatest oratorial singers and some of her greatest instrument alists. among whom were Ilr Maldwyn Humphreys and Mr Barrett. Townsmen of Dolgelley had also dis- tinguished themselves, and the town provided an exception to the rule that a prophet hath no honour in his own country," seeing that Mr Roberts, station, and Llew Meirion were honoured at home and would be honoured if they went farther afield. (Laughter and cheers). a 1\1. 11.. _t..r. 1.14-1- wnusc iitr<nU1 was drunk with musical honours, acknowledging thetoast,thoughtthatit should have been acknowledged by someone who was well versed in music in Wales and was entitled as a Welsh- man to speak about it. He, however, as a one time volunteer officer, learnt to obey, and therefore wouH do his best, though what he said would not be of much value. Nevertheless. he had watched the course of music in Wales, and sometime ago he took a modest first step or two towards the foundation in Wales of a national association which should encompass Wales and overarch it with a complete machinery for musical education. A start was m;ide, but latterly he had heard nothing aboutfit. (A Voice: Dead.") If it was dead he was sorry for it. (Hear, hear). His la-t experience of music in Wales was at Car liff. He went to a festival some time back and heard an oratorio of a leading Welsh composer. That composer was an extremely able man, who was competent to do considerable things. He, unfortunately, was bitten with a craze for sensationalism, which was the greatest curse of the p esent day. When a man wanted to achieve notoriety itn,i do something that no one else had done, it generally fi.ded in his doing what nobody cared about. If that composer, who was an extremely clever mm, kept: within the bounds of what one might call teasonable music, he could do very goo,l work but, unfortunately, he was caught in the whirlpool of sensationalism, and he went round and round like the poor sai'ors in the Maelstrom, and might be there yet. (Laughter and cheers). Well, that was not the best thing he (Mr B-nntsft) should like to see as theprorluct of music in Wales—a combination of screams and a constant dropping and raising of first one part of the chorus and then of that part of tjle chorus. It was all mere trickery. Pray do not let mii-ic in Wabs come to that. hear) Then with regard to the cultivation of music in Wales by the great mass of the people. That wci t on, he was glad to see, and would Beyer stop: hut he should like also to see a larger sc^pe. He said two or three years "go there must be orchrstral music in ^'ales. (Cheers). It wusjull in vain, that choral work. v ithout it. Cl-ioril singing wis good in its influence on ti e peop'e who I sana and the peop'e who heard, but it was rot the whole of music of a musical natiou, aud Wale* must iiuve orchestral music, and stimulate the study of orchestral music, and study ore"rstral instru- ments, otherwise Waleri would be wli -re it was and never get a step farther with regard to the art of music as a whole. (Cheers). The people of Wales dis- tinguished themselves immensely in a few pxiticulir branches, and ail honour to them, considering the immense disabilities under which so many of the work- ing peopie of Wales laboured, and the working people were the backbone of music in Wales. BtH he felt something must be done further, and he never cease I to iterate and reiterate his opini ms, which were not only founded upon experience, hut were the r-sult) profound conviction which exi ted long before he became acquainted with the details of music in \Vales. (Hear, hear). Well, what was to be done? Could eisteddfodau do something more than they did as' regarded the cultivation of orchestral mioie ? The committees could ofler a large prize of twenty-five or thirty guineas for the best performance by an orchestral party. (Cheers.) He did not mean that they should expect a complete orche-tra—that would' ie absurd beta biti(I of music and string and per- cussion instruments, numbering sixteen or seventeen. That would form a nucleus, and would encourage in: every possible manner what would undoubtedly have a good eflecfc upon music in YV ales. It would do what was intended and what must be done if Welsh music was to improve. (Cheers.) He had then relieved his mind of the thought that lie had brought (Lwn with him from L ndon. He hoped those who heard him would take them as well meaning, as certainly they were, nnd that th -y would try to ge* their people to think them over, so that when next he came down he would find that something had been done in the: direction indicated. (Appliuse). Mr J. H. MARSHALL proposed the 1: Idris Choral Society, which, he said, would next year attain its majority. Itie eisteddfod did no: pay its way by itself, and it was to the efforts of the Society at the concert that the institution was kept out of debt. (Hear, hpar). The institution had produced several good singers, notably Miss Madge Roberts. Miss Susannah Pierce, and Mr Norman Macleod Jones- (applause)—and was admirably conductrd by its two secretarus, Mr 0. O. Roberts and Mr E. Williams (Liew Meirion). Mr E. WILLIAMS suitably responded, and in the coutse of h's remarks said there was no other musical society in Wales which had continued in existence for twenty years. He was pleased to be able to say that Ethel Griffiths. daughter of their vice-president, Mr Griffiths, was distinguishing herself as an instru- mentalist at the Royal AcadelllY. and Mr J. Hugh Jones was an nble accompanist. (Applause). Mr IYHLON*; p oposed the toast of The Visitors," to which Mr STKTART and Mr WILLIA:.I EVAS responded. The latter said he could hardly be regarded as a visitor, for he was born at Dolgelley, and he noped to live there again, and fiually to be buried in the new Cemetery, where they could see the trains passing backward and forward." (Loud laughter.) Mr W. R. DAVIES proposed the" Health of the President and Vice-president," and in respect of Mr Morris Jones hoped he would take with him to Carnarvon the same usefulness and goodness of heart that had endeared him to Merioneth. The PRESIDENT suitably acknowledged the toast. and said that this year the eisteddfod had lost three of its good supporters—Mr Holland, Mr Millard, ancr^lr Llewelyn Pritchard. The toast of "The Host" brought to an end a pleasmt evening.

BALA. RE-UNION.—The Christmas re-un'on of Old Bal Boys was held at the Bull Hotel on the evening of the 26th of December. Dr Williams pre- sided. A dinner was served at S.,30., to which over thirty old Bala Hoys sat. The dinner was worthy of the occasion and reflected very creditably on the able management of the hestess. Mrs Evans. The tables being cleared, the rest of the evening was spent in toosè-rhillking and singing. Dr Williams, in his opening remarks, said that he considered it a privilege to be present for two reasons, one, that he was very h-ippy to meet Old Bals. Roys once again, and the other, that although the literary society of the Bala Boys: had departed this life since the autumn of this year, in spite of all their efforts to prop it up, many of the old members had stuck to their co'ours, and met or.ee more to spmd a jovial evening together. He was glad to find such unanimity amongst these present and hoped that it would always continue. Atter those remarks by the president, a duct. Two Johnnies in love was sung by Messrs T. J. Roberts and Townley Joins. The toast to the "Queen and Royal Family having been proposed by Dr Williams, Mr Townley favoured the meeting with a song After an effective rendering of The bay of Biscay" by Mr R. E. Williams, all joined in drinking the health of "Bala Boys away from heme," the toast being propofed by Mr E. Jones, and responded to by Mr H. Puleston Jones. The next item was a lively selection of Welsh airs on the harp, violin, and piano, followed by a short interval. At the opening of the fecond part Of the programme seveial members engaged in Pennillion singing to the accompaniment of harp, violin, and piano. Mr T. J. Roberts next sang "Y gwenith gwyn." The Pre-ident afterwards proposed the to ist, Cymru, y Cymry, a Chymraeg in a speech full of enthmi- asm. Mr Durmon, who had kindly consented to ac- company on the piano during the evening, gave an effective rendering of "Uncle Jack and I." The next toast, "The fair maids of Meirion was proposed by Mr D. Evans in an amusing mann- r, and was responded to by Mr M. J. Roberts. She is the only girl I love" was next sung by Mr W. R. Jones. Mr David Evans, in proposing the toast to the president, expressed the feeling of all present, when lie said that the services of Dr Williams were fully appreciated by the Bala Boya. Mr E. T. Evans favoured the n,eeting with a minstrel ong, "The golden slipper," and Mr David Roberts gave an excellent rendering of "Gwroniaid Gwlad y Gan." After pishing a cordial vote of thanks to the hon. secretaries, Messrs M. J. Roberts, and R. White .Tones, and also to Mr Dnrman. Hen Wlad fy Nhadau was sung and the proceedings brought to a close.

YSTRAD MEURIG. PLYOAIN-.—The u-ua1 flyyain was held on Christmas morning at Ystrad Meurig Church. The church had been decorated for the occasion as gaily as ever, and among the te3tts waf, Ar y ddaear tangDefedd, i (Idyni,)n ewyifys d' Several carols were well rendered as,,t'e^ as social hymns and the well known anthem Ac yr oedd yn y wlad honno fugeiliad." There also a service later on in the day with celphrat;on Holy Communion, the partak- es luiinbering about 50. The leader of the singing, Was 1'. Wm.Davies, took active part, and Messrs. D, 14, T. Humphreys, S. A. Jones, and Jas. Lewis also assisted with the decorations aad singing.

CARMARTHN. (',u:L\RTJ! :i Soep KITCHE:-i.- The annual meeting of the subscribers of this institution was held at the III-tll ,n Friday afternoon, Mr. Thomas Thomas (Otfichl Receiver), presiding. The report stated that S27 ioav. s of bread ami 10 603 quarts of soup were ] i b.tween January 8th and March ISth last to the of-or—who. on receipt of Id. obtained a quart of soup ;i"d a loaf of bread. The balance in hand was i") 10-s 11 (1. An earnest appeal for funds was made. Mr. D. IJ. Morgan, auctioneer, was re- appointed hon. secretary. The first distribution took place on Tues- day last,