The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

WASTING NATIONAL RESOURCE8. MILLIONS upon millions of pounds a year have been added to the national annual expenditure upon the navy. Now the time of the army has come and at one stroke twenty-five thousand men are to be added to the army at an annual charge of more than two millions of pounds. If two millions had been asked to redeem the nation from ignorance, or poverty, or crime, or to add brightness; or ease to the life of the poor there would have been a great outcry, but two millions are taken from the national resources in order to add twenty-five thousand men to the nation's fighting forces and nobody complains. Nobody is startled. Nobody eeems to realiz" that there is a far greater danger in 0 the increase of national armaments than the danger that it is supposed the armaments avert. The people do not realize that every warship added to the navy and every regiment added to the army is a menace to the people who have to find the money to maintain them. We know how useless it is to protest against this scandalous waste of the national resources, and it is equally useless to point out the danger to the people of great armaments. The army of France is destroying the freedom of France, and as we have recently seen is sapping the sources of justice and becoming a distinct danger to the national peace. We do not propose to ask the people of Wales to take higher ground on the question of war expenditure than is taken by the people of England. We have seen in Merionethshire, in Cardiganshire, and elsewhere, that for the Sfke of a little lavish expenditure of public money the inhabitants of Wales are quite willing to encourage the army. Both sides of the House of Commons are in favour of the proposed additions to the army, and there can be no question that the way the national revenue is to be used meets with approval in the country. It would te folly to pretend that the people are averse to an increased standing, army whose chief use is to keep down the people who have to maintain it. There will, no doubt, be some sort of protest against the Government scheme, but it was clear from what transpired in the House of Commons last week that there is to be no serious opposition to the proposals. The Liberals are so afraid of being charged with lack of patriotism that tlwy dare not do what many of them feel it would be right to co. Public opinion is vitiated, and anyone who wants to see how national strength declines and how moral force is frittered away need only take note of what is happening in our own time and in our own and neighbouring nations. We are still cursed with the cost of wars waged early in the century, and still we spend money in augmenting the fighting forces instead of paying off old liabilities.

HISTORY REPEATING ITSELF. AT the Aberystwyth meeting, last week, of the North Cardiganshire Cob Im- provement Society there were, we regret to say, strong indications that the history of North Cardiganshire horse societies is go- ing once more to repeat itself. We will give quite briefly what have been the main lines of the history of past efforts to Maintain and improve the breed of horses in Cardiganshire. Somebody is first of all impressed with the need for taking action in order to improve the breed of horses. Whether it is a cob, or a cart horse, or some other variety of horse that is fancied dopends upon the individuals who first take action. A meeting is called, the necessary money is obtained, a good sire is engaged, and everybody feeis that the right thing has been done. When the annual meeting is held thoss present are told that a cob is no doubt a right enough sort of horse to breed, but that what the county most wants is a realiy first-rate cart horse. Money is scarce, "but every- body agrees that a cart horse ought to be obtained, and in the end a cart horse sire is engaged. Next year the grumblers Say that the cart horse was too heavy or too light and that what is wanted is something quite different. Still it is agreed that both a cob and a cart horse should be engaged, but that there should hor& cai*k horse and a heavy cart se. An attempt, is made to please hehP^)0^' n tho third meeting is suitf^1 ^0Ur1^ that the horses have been 11?°^ au<^ that ^he farmers have private person*11" ?„ h°r96 <"rad b* 8 o( the horses have T" the or./I +1 ci given up, and in tldh e, Soc:e;y out. L h. o. One att^m with more than horses t0 ,n,Provc the breed of inal-n c0"n'y and he can tell how find. Mr v always had faults to been ideritifi DAVIES, again, has the breed of bW attempts to improve h0°wf th. county and just the sort of talk t hat sprung up at last week's meeting always springs up, and how in the end effort is dissipated and the whole thing falls to pieces because there cannot be as many horses as there are opinions about them. If the promoters and supporters of the North Cardiganshire Cob Improvement Society will allow themselves to be taught by experience they will just go on their way and refuse to be lured from the excellent object they have in view. The Cardiganshire cob is a well-known and much-liked animal. Nothing better can be done than to maintain and, if possible, improve it. The people who want to improve cart horses should not be listened to—not because what they say is of little consequence, but because one society and a limited sum of money cannot do everything. It is deeply to be regretted that the whole question of providing a, cob was not finally decided at the last meeting. The amount of money offered last year was ridiculously small, and if that money is to be divided between a cob and a cart horse it might be as well to offer nothing at a 1. Farmers must remember thai dealers are always on the look-out in Cardiganshire for good horses, and it is only by maintaining 5 the quality that prices can be kept up. We think it would be a good thing it I:) somebody would look up the facts in reference to past attempts to improve the breed of horses in Cardiganshire so that the old mistakes might be avoided. It is better to do one thing well than to attempt tco much and to fail aitogetier. The real question is not whether a cob or a cart, horse would be more advantageous to the district. The pro- babilities are that they would be both equally advantageous. The question i:, what can be done in a district where money is not easy to get and where whatever is done that which is left un- done appears to be the more desirable? In the light or wnau Has uappenea we think there can be no doubt that too much should not ba attempted at once. It would be better to engage a cart I horse one year and a cob the next than to try to engage two the same year. I Z!1 n Perhaps a better plan still would be to agree to engage one sort of horse for two years and then another sort of horse for two years, so that every class of the community would have their wishes me'. The great thing for the critics of the present Society to remem- ber is that only a limited course of action is possible, and that if a cart horse were engaged the reasons for en- O O gaging a cob would be quite as strong as the reasons now are for engaging a cart horse. We are fully awara how difficult it is for men to believe that everything which they think is desirable cannot be done. Still they ought to remember that what they themselves find it to be impossible to do is not always easy to others. There is a good deal to be learnt from the history of past Cardiganshire horse societies, and if the present one is to live and to do useful work the tempta- tion to spread out and to try and meet everybody's desires must be resisted.

THE ABER-YSTWYTH POSTAL DELIVERY. FOR many years the inhabitants of Aber- ystwyth have ben placed at great dis- advantage owing to the late delivery of letters and the early closing of the even- ing post. For a long time it was said that the difficulty was due to the fact that the letters were brought to the town unsorted in bags as to any other small town and that everything would be different if a postotfice railway sorting van could be obtained. After a great deal of agitation and much assurance that a post office railway sorting van was utterly out cf the question, a van was put on, and for a short time there was a slight improvement in the delivery of letters. The improvement was not main- tained. Oa further complaints being made, we were told that the Cambrian Railways were so badly paid for carrying the mails that they could only afford to bring them by luggage train, but that if the Post Oflice would pay the railway company a certain increased sum annually the speed of the train would be acceler- ated and letters would be delivered at a reasonable time. Efforts were made to obtain a larger subsidy from the Govern- ment and in the end the sum obtained bv the company was, we believe, almost doubled. Again for a short time there was an improvement in the delivery, but again the improvement did not last. Then Z5 it was said that the Aberystwyth Office was under-manned. Again there was an agitation and once more it was understood that an adequate service would be sup- plied. After the manner of previous occasions the service fell off as soon HS public discontent died down. It now transpires, after twenty years of pottering, that the postal service is as bad as ever. The question is, what can be done It seems to us that the Town Council is partly to blame. It took years to get the lamp put over the public entrance, and even now the Post Office is as incon- venient as could well be devised. The railway company has got all it wanted, and there is no hope of anything being done by the company, unless the Post Office makes it clear that if the service is not improved the extra subsidy will he discontinued. We have had long ex- perience in dealing with State departments, and it may be taken for granted that nothing will be obtained without persist- ent effort and everything can be obtained with persistent effort. The Government will be quite willing to revise the esti- mates with a view to cutting down the cost of carrying the mails, and it is for the Cambrian Company to say whether 'hey are prepared to fulfil their part of the undertaking given when the increased subsidy was granted, or are prepared to revert to the old rate of remuneration. One thing is clear, and the sooner everybody concerned understands it the better, the inhabit- ants of Aberystwyth intend to have an earlier delivery of letters and also a later hour for posting letters. We do not intend to apportion blame. The policy which must now be brought to an end has prevailed throughout the official lives of several railway managers and several local postmasters. The Town Council, in conjunction with the business men of the town, must decide what is required in the way of improved postal service, and there must be no more peace until what is required is fully conceded. We arc tired of the ever recurring grumble. We know full well how hard it is to get anything done when you have to deal with three or four sets of officials-in this case railway officials, local post-office officials, and permanent Government officials. We know full well how they, mule-like, set their backs up and declare that nothing can be done, and that nothing ought to be done, and that nothing shall be done if they cAn help it. We know full well, however; that there are ways and means of driving reason into even the dullest and stupid- est occupants of the various circum- locution offices vrhich have to be dealt with in this matter. The business men of the town, to begin with, must either be represented by the Town Council or must find some other way of oringing pre sure to bear upon the Government. The shortcomings of the Post Office must le clearly and correctly stated, and the reforms required must be plainly set forth in language which the dullest in- tellect can understand. The Post Office INSPECTOR, after the manner of his kind, will inspect and report and will report and inspect. There will be an attempt made to set up an interminable correspondence and the town will be told that the whole matter is being carefully considered. This sort of thing we have 1,0^1 nut> nnrt over asrain for twenty years, v and it ought not to be listened to or tolerated any longer. A great deal more depends upon an efficient postal service than may be recognized at first sight. Of course we do not expect the local Post Office to be officered in a way that will enable the public to be promptly served, but wo do expect that Aberystwyth letters shall be delivered at reasonable hours in the morning. We hope that something definite and business-like will be done by the Town Council with a view to getting this miserable state of things quickly and permanently altered. Aberystwyth has a good case which has been frequently recognized, and we trust that no time will be lost in letting the Government know that this branch of the public service is locally inefficient, although it was undeistood years ago that efficiency was paid for. We shall recur to the sub- ject again at an early date, and we hope that the inhabitants of the town will, in the meantime, make up their minds that the Railway Company and the Post Office department are not to play one another off in order to confuse the issue which is quite simple, and means that the public do not get what they have a right to expect and inte: d to have in the way of postal advan- tages.

EDITORIAL NOTES. So little interest has been taken in the County Council elections ia Merionethshire that only in one parish, that of Llangelyuin, will there be a contest. The candidates thtre are Mr THOMAS LEWIS and Mr E. W. KIRKBY. The contest is not being fought on p)litical lines. Theri are more sides than one ta thej Volunteer movement, which at present seems to be engag- ing the attention of young men in this dis- trict. Parading to church on Sundays to the martial strains of a brass band is all very well. Here is another side to the game of playing at sol- I diers.-WILLIAM TOOEY, a young labourer em- ployed at the chemical works, Newport, and who resides at 18, Oxford-street, joined the 2nd Volunteer Battalion South Wales Borderers at Newport, but failed co put in the stipulated number of drills to make him a recognised citizen soldier and in consequence he failed to earn the capitation grant of 35s. At the New- port Police Court on Wednesday TOOEY was ordered to pay the amount himself into the funds of the battalion or to go to prison for fourteen days in default. We suppose TOOEY paid the thirty-five shillings in preference to going to prison for fourteen days. Volunteering is not all beer and skittles as some of the young men at Machynlleth and Towyn may find out in one way or another before long. At Merioneth Winter Assizes held at Dol- gelley on Thursday and Friday of !ast week, the case was tried in which Mr H. F. CARPENTER of the Cambrian brewery, Dolgelley, sought an injunction to re.stra;n Dolgelley Urban District Council, their servants, and agents from carrying on, conducting, authorising or permitting to be car- ried on and conducted the business of a slaughter- house for catile at Dolgelley so, or in such mwner, as to cause a nuisance to the PLAINTIFF, his family, and servants by offensive smell, effluvia, or noise. PLAINTIFF claimed damages and costs. Aftf'r a lengthy trial, which we report fully in aaother part of the paper, the injunction sought for, omitting the word "noise," was granted with forty shillings damages and costs. The case is one of considerable interest t) local governing bodies, and the verdict given in favour of 'tho PLAINTIFF will tend to drive home the need for greater care and watchfulness in reference to sanitary matters than it has been the custom to give. Slaughter-houses contiguous to dwelling- houses, unless kept scrupulously clean, are a distinct danger to the health of the community. Pubi c bodies are in many cases greater offenders avainst the laws ot sanitation than private individuals. Where there is occasion it is to be hoped public bodies all over the district will put their houses in order. In the course of an ajdres delivered to the members of Tregaron Board of Guardians at a meeting of the Board held on Tuesday, Mr BIRCIIAM congratulated the Guardians on the low rate of pauperism in the union and referred to the reduction which had been made in the salary of the RELIEVING OFFICER. He expressed a hope that the amount paid would be reconsidered. We do not think anything is gained by the cheeseparing policy adopted by some boards with reference to their officers. If men are well treated they will work well. There are occasions when officers are able to save unions large sums of money, but it is not to be expected that they will go out of their way to save a union money that begrudges them fair remuneration for their ser- vices. The position of Tregaron Union is n highly satisfactory one, but there is still room for improvement in dealing with those of the poor who are destitute and have no person to attend to them. It is mistaken kindness to grant out-relief in cases of this kind. The House should be steadily offered. The ratepayers would then L- nmiipr care and attention was paid to KDOW tuciu these persons. By granting small doles m out-r,lief misery is intensified and many conditions which are objectionable are perpetuated. At Derbyshire Assize on Monday, before Mr Justice HAWKINS, WILLIAM and FANNY BRADLEY were each charged with contracting a bigamous marriage. They were married, it appeared, in 1884, and separated withiu three months. Seven years later both married again, and the two couples continued to live peaceably and decently in the village of Grassmoor. Otfing to a question as to the legitimacy arising at an inquest recently on a child of the female prisoner, these facts were elicited, and the CORONER thereupon informed the magistrates who instructed the police to prose- cute. His LORDSHIP commented strongly on the action of the people who had put the prosecution in motion. The first marriage," he said, was evidently a case of incompatibility of tempera- 11 ment, and there appeared to have been neither cruelty to justify a judicial separation nor mis- conduct to warrant a divorce. Not one single circumstance could be raked up against either of the prisoners. It was suggested that it was in the interests of justice that they were prose- cuted, but it seemed to him that in the inter- ests of humanity they might have been left quietly alone. He should not pass any sen- "tence whatever on them, as by so doing he "should feel thai he was a party to these pro- ceeding. He bound the prisoners over to come up for judgment if called upon and dis- allowed the costs of the prosecution, remarking that if everybody's delinquencies were made known after some years there would be a good "many people differently occupied." This is a very sensible decision. Why should two persons be forced to live together who are not suited to eaoh other ? Mr Justice HAWKINS read the "proper" people a severe lesson at Derby and they will no doubt be greatly shocked at the decision and horrified at the possible results in cases where, through incompatibility of temperament or for other reasons, persons arc a burden to one an- other. If the practice of WILLIAM and FANNY BRADLEY "becomes general, a good many people will be differently occupied than they are at present. We publish in another column the annual re- port presented by Dr EDWARD JONES, medical officer to Dolgelley Urban District Council, to a meeting of that body held on Tuesday week. The report deals in a complete and exhaustive manner with the work necessary for preserving the health of the district and with the conditions which breed disease and death. The report is of general interest and might be lead with ad- vantage by members of local governing bodies all ovtr the district. + At a meetiog of Machynlleth Urban District Council held on Tuesday, the SURVEYOR said the Streets Committee had once more failed to form a quorum and there was no report to submit. If Machynlleth streets were fit to walk in and were free from obstructions, the Streets Com- mittee might urge as an excuse for their laxity that there was no work to do. But Machynlleth streets are not fit to walk in and are not free from obstructions, and the neglect of the Streets Committee is all the more serious. In discus- sing the matter of byelaws, Mr RICHARD GILLART asked a question about obstructions on footpaths which was received with laughter. Machynlleth footpath obstructions do not by any means seem to us a laughing matter. There ,vas more in the laughter, perhaps, than meets the eye. In a letter from a correspondent, printed in another part of the paper, attention is called to some of the county roads of Merioneth, particularly those leading to Talyllyn, taking either of the three routes, Dolgelley, Towyn, or Corris. If the statements with reference to these roads are correct, and we have no reason to doubt them, a very serious responsibility rests upon the Cjunty Council with regard to them. There is a good deal of traffic in the summer months on the road between Upper Corris and Braichgoch Hotel where, it is stated, there are unfenced declivities forty or fifty feet in depth. An accident here would inevitably ba atteuded by serious less of life. We know how neccssary it is that the approaches to the residences of county magistrates and county councillors should be kept in good order, and we are willing to make allowances for these who direct the movements of the steam roller which, however giddy its mood, is naturally a slow mover, but Talyllyn parish has a grievance and we hope it will press its case with persistence. « Mere than two years have elapsed since it was fir, t decided to board out the children in- mates in the Aberystwyth Workhouse. Aft, r much talk and a considerable display of ignorance on the pare of some of the members of the Board, it was decided at a meeting of the Board held on Mouday to place out two children with people who promised to provide comfortable homes for them. When the proposition was being put to the meeting, Mr JOHN JENKINS, Aberystwyth, objected to it, and further on in the discussion made a statement with reference to diet which the CLERK showed was quite un- founded. Mr JOHN JENKINS'S knowledge of public business, aided by prompting which at times is so loud that the audience can hear it, is not of a very high order. We hope the rate- payers will take into account his attitude in reference to this and other matters when he next solicits their votes. We do not think anybody is deceived with the sort of parroty wisdom displayed from time to time. The rate- payers tYuy be slow to judge, but when they do judge they make no mistake. Speaking last week at Chester, Mr YERBURGH alluded to the recent speech made by Lord ROSEBERY in regard to the great position that might be occupied by those who interested them- selves in municipal work, and said he would like to emphasise every word that fell from his LORDSHIP'S lips. It appeared to him that they could fiui in the work of our great cities occupation that was well worthy of their devotion, and occupation that must elevate and improve the minds of those who undertook it. He could conceive of no nobhr aims for the Jives of men than these which were set before them by our great city cor- porations-the improvement of the homes and surroundings of the poorer classes and the "sweepingpway of wretched hovels. Then they had the other ideal-to raise and elevate the minds of those they had rescued from these unhappy surroundings; and when he compared their work with the part played by members of Parliament be was bound to say tliat, on the w hole the members of municipal corporations had greater opportunities than fell to the lot cf the ordinary member of Parliament." The ordinary members of local governing bodies think about little else than them- selves. They take public office not because of their fitness, but for the purpose of clothing their naked personalities and adding to their very eickly reputations. Their noblest aims with very few exceptions are their own advance- ment and comfort. Take Aberystwyth. For twenty years that town has been pottering with the question of workmen's houses and nothing has been done yet. Tlle poor are still rotting in hovel dwellings and under ragged tents on the sheltered sides of hedges. The average public man is so soon blinded by his own im. portance that reform is lost sight of. As a result of the loose manner in which the Town Council of Aberystwyth has for years dealt with applications for leases, a good deal of injustice is likely to be done', to individual ap- plicants. At a meeting of Aberystwyth Town Council held on Tuesday, nearly the whole time of the meeting was taken up in dis- cussing leases granted tome time ago. The letters read and statements made on Tuesday show that the Council, in order to untangle its tanglement, will not have to be too tender with some of the applicants for leases. The rate- payers are beginning at last to take an interest in the leases question. We have urged them to give the question more attention for years well knowing that sooner or later the time would come when knowledge of the question would be helpful in enabling them to deal with the results of the policy of ignorance, drift, and consequent muddlement pursued by the Council in reference to the leases question. The ratepayers may take our word for it that a public body that was not prepared to deal justly with Messrs GIBSON, who were well able to fight their own case, in the matter of premises in Mary-street and Terrace- road, will not be particular with other persons who are less able to fight their own case and look after themselves. Personal prejudices and aai mosities are allowed to stand not only the. way of equitable treatment of applicants in reference to renewals of leases but also in the way of much-needed improvement to the town. When Messrs GIBSON purchased the Mary- street premises the question of widening one side of Mary-street was constantly under eliscussion. Messrs GIBSON were asked to put the premises back five feet which meant destroying the pre- sent building. The Town Council at that time quoted terms for renewal as if th e place were a building and allowed compensation for the five feet taken by them as if the place were a site. The result was that Messrs GIBSON sold the premises and the much-talked of improvement to Mary-street is still a thing of the future. Another instance of similar treatment took plac" with reference to Messrs GIBSON'S Terrace-road premises which they applied to have renewed. There is no difference between their case and that referred to in the letter written by Mr JOSEPH DAVIES to the last meeting of the Council. Messrs GIBSON own the whole term of the lease and three days over if it comes to that and their applica- tion has been put off time after time, first on one excuse and then on another. The difficulty with reference to granting reversionary leases has been got over. The Local Government Board refused to interfere in reference to Messrs GIBSON'S Terrace-road lea-e. We understand that other cases like that of Messrs GIBSON will be brought before the Council at an early date when the ratepayers will have an opportunity of judging how much there is in some of the arguments used in reference to Messrs GIBSON'S lease. At a meeting of Cheshire farmers held at Macclesfield Town Hall on Tuesday, a discussion took place with reference to the prices obtained by farmers for milk. We do not know what prices Cheshire farmers obtain for their milk, but Derbyshire farmers were envious!y referred to as obtaining two shiliings and twopence per dczen quarts in the winter and one shilling and eight- pence half-penny in the summer months. At Aberystwyth and other places in this district milk is sold at three and four shillings per dozen quarts. Of late years there has been a great development in the business of inilkselling in the district. Judging from the prices obtained in Cheshire and Derbyshire, the lot of the milkseller in this district is a profitable one.

GLANDOVEY JONCTJLON. I PROMOTION.—Mr Evans, who has been station- master at this i-tation for some time, has be- n pro- moted to Montgomery. Mr Evans's courteous manner had won for him many friends duriug his short stay on the coast and he leaves with their best wishes.

BL A EN AIT FESTINIOG. A WOMAN FOUND DEAD.—On Wednesday morn- ing week while some quarrymen were going to their work they discovered the body of a woman on Graigddu Mountain, near Blienau Festiniog. The police were at once notified of the fact and it was afterwards found that the body was that of the wife of a ceitiin hawker named Thomas Jones, haiiing from Amlwch, but better known in the dis trict as Thomas Joee3 of Wrexham. The body bore marks which appeared to be due to acts of violence. Thomas Jones, the deceased's husband, was tiken into custody pending the inquest.

LLWYNGWKIL. COUNTY COUNCIL ELECTION.—The only contest in Merionethshire is in the Llangelvnin district. Tile candidates are Mr Lewis, Arthog, and Mr Kirkby, Llaafendigaid. The polling takes place next Satur- day and a keen fight is anticipated. The Arthog ward consists of about eighty electors and the Hwyngwril ward about one hundred and twentv. Mr Lewis is fighting on political lines, while Mr Kirkby is anxious to avoid politics. He believes, like Lord Rosebery, that party strifes should be kept out of these elections. Mr Kirkby is very- popular with the farmers and the villagers, irrespective of sect or party. He is supported by some of the leading Libetals of the district.

ORICOIETH. cCUTY COUNCIL ELECTION.—It was general'}- expected that there would be no contest in division seven of Criccieth Urban District. As a matter of fact it was only on Friday, the very last day for receiving nominations, that Mr J. T. Jones of Parciau decided to contest the seat against Mr Robert Thcmas. Very few people were aware un- til Saturday morning of the sudden change of events and surprise was evident almost everywhere. Plunged so suddenly into the heat of an election fight with no question of politic?, both candidates belonging to the Liberal party, the wonder is that the feeling which runs very high liai cot given rise to personalities. Neither candidate, however, has as yet held a public meeting which perhaps accounts to a great extent for the absence so far of any of the bitterness of feeling sometimes evi dent in the lccil elections. The geuerally-exprt ssell opinion is that the contest will be a very cL.se one. The polling takes place to-morrow (Saturday) at the Board School and the result will in all pro bability be declared soon after nine o'clock. SCHOOL BOARD, TUESDAY, MARCH IST.-Pre- sent: Mr J. W. Bowen (chairman), Rev W. B. Marks, Messrs R. Roberts, G. P. VVi!bams, H. E. Williams, and W. Caer Jones (clerk). Correspondence.—A notification was read from the Department of Science and Art to the drec; that after olet March inspection by the Education Department will take the place of the annual ex- amination in drawing hitherto held by the Science and Art Department. -Notice of examination of pupil teachers and candidates to take place at Pw ll- heli on April 2nd was read.—Copy of regulations as to travelling expenses, &c., of members or clerks and other payments by school boards in connection with conferences under the School Board Confer- ence Act, 1897, was received. Miscellaneous.—The Heai Teacher's report on the present working of the school savings bank was read, but as the term of office of the Board expire-s at the end of this month, the question of making changes in the present system or abolishing the system altogether was left to the new Board.— The Attendance Officer's report on the absentee lists was considered and the necessary instructions given.—The tender of Mr W. Rees was accepted for making a museum cupboard for the Infants' School and instructions were given for the removal cf school desks and carrying out other necessary alterations in the boys' and girls' departments.—It uas decided to hold an adjourned meeting of the Board on March 29th. URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL, SATURDAY, FEB. 26TH.—Present Mr Robert Thomas (chairman), Dr Livingstone Davies, Captain Jones, Messrs Wilbam Williams, J. T. Jones, T. Buruell, R. P. Thoma", R. Roberts. 0. T. Williams, J. W. Roberts, H. Humphreys, John Rowlands, J. Tobias (deputy clerk), T. Roberts (C.E.), and Morris Williams (surveyor). Sympathy.—Before proceeding to the business of the meeting, the Chairman moved that a letter of sympathy be sent to the Rev W. B. M -rks on the death of his father.-—The proposition was seconded by Mr J. T. Jones and unanimously agreed to. North IVales University Collcje.—Mr J. W. Robert-, proposed that Dr Davies be elected to re- present the Council on the Court of Governors of Bangor University College for one year and Mr T. Burnell seconded the proposition.—Mr William Williams proposed the election of Mr 0. T. Williams.—There was no seconder and the election of Dr Davies was carried unanimously. Auereistedd Sen Wall —Applications were re- ceived from the following for the position of clerk of the works :-Henry Jones, Chapel-row William Jones, Snowdon View Richord Hum- phreys, Talsarnau William Griffith, Tynvffolt; Robert Jones, 18, Marine-terrace Robert Evans, Cambrian-terrace; Owen Parry, Plas Eifion Edward Morgan, Ty Capel; William Griffith, 27, Marine-terrace.—Before deciding the appointment, the Engineer was consulted as to the qualifications of the candidates for the work.- Eventually, on the proposition of Mr H. Humphreys, seconded by Captain Jones, Mr Robert Jones, 18. Marine-ter- race, was appointed at the wages of 24s a week.— The Deputy Clerk stated that as directed by the Council, the Clerk had written to Mr J. E. Greaves in reference to the proposed sea wall. Mr Greaves subsequently called at the Clerk's office and said that he was glad the Council were proceeding with tue work and also stated that he would be willing to meet a deputation on the matter.—Mr 0. T. Williams proposed that a deputation of three be appointed to meet Mr Greaves.—Mr T. H. Jones seconded and the Chairman, Mr T. Burnell, and Mr O. T. Williams were appointed. Loa)ts.-With reference to the question of the proposed immediate repayment of all loans still outstanding by negociating one lean at a lower rite of interest, the Clerk read replies from three of the companies concerned, all of whom were-unwilliliz to consent to the Council's application.—Further consideration of the question was deferred pending the receipt of replies from other companies. Correspondence.—A letter was read from Mr Robert Roberts, Llys Caradog, in reference to a proposed change in the position of the boundary wall to be erected for the new house he was now building at Abereistedd.—After some discussion, the matter was referred to the Buildings Com- mittee to meet Mr Roberts, Mr W. Watkin, and the Council's Engineer on the spot.—A letter was read from Lord Hirlech's agent, Mr Lawford, a k- ing for information as to a building line at Glan- rafoD, and the Clerk was directed to write stating that the Council's Surveyor would give any inform- ation he-possibly could. Committee's Report.—The report of the Roads and Building? Committee was read and adopted.— Mr 0, T. Williams called attention to the obstruc- tion in Castle-street, and the Surveyor was directed to see the builder, Mr W. G. Evans, with the view to having the obstructions removed as soon as possible.—On the proposition of Mr J. T. Jones, seconded by Mr J. R. Roberts, the question of im- provements to the footpath in Salem-terrace was referred to the Surveyor.—The Surveyor submitted plana and estimates for kerbing, &c., for footpath near Lonfel, and it was decided to give the owne! s of the property twomonths to complete the work. -Tiie Sanitary Committee's report was read and adopt., d. —The Improvement Committee's report was also read and adopted. With reference to filling up the pond at Abereistedd, the Committee reported that Mr Watkin was prepared to divert the br. ok on Penaber land and to convey the water by means of eighteen-inch pipes to the front boundary ot Plas Elfion. -On the proposition of Mr J. T. Jones, the report on this question was referred back to the Committee for plans and an estimate of the ad- ditional expense the proposed alteration would entail upon the Council.-The question of making a s-uitable approach to a spring at Abereistedd « as also referred back to the Committee, and on the motion of MrO. T. Williams, the question of adopt- ing regulations as to hackney carriages was re- ferred to the same committee. Tynyjielest Building Site8-In accordance with notice given, Mr B'rnell proposed that a previous resolution of the Council as to the extent of front- age for proposed houses at Maes Tynygelest be re- scinded and that the frontage be increased to twenty-one feet.—Mr H. Humphreys seconded and the proposition was agreed to. District Council Election.—The Clerk made the following arnouDCement as to dates for election purposes :—Last day for nomination, March 17th at 110011; last day for withdrawals, 22nd March polling, 2nd April.

LLANFAIR, HAKLLCH. PRESENTATION.—A meeting was held at Pensarn 00 Monday for the purpose of making a presenta tion to Mr and Mrs David Richards, Pensaro, on the occasion of their marriage. The chair was taken by Mr G. Thomas, Penrallt. Mr Hugh Jones having given several solos, speeches were de- livered by Mr Evans, Tynymaes. Mr Williams, Bronfair, Mr Rowlands, Mr J. Griffith, builder, Mr Griffiths, and others. Mr Marsh, stationmaster, then made the presentation which consisted of a beautiful clock and a splendid silver plate, the former bearing the inscription Presented to Mr and Mrs David Richar3s by their friends and weH-wtshers on the occasion of their marriage, Jan- us ry 18th, 1898 Mr and Mrs Richards suitably returned their acknowledgments and thanked ail for the gjod wishes wh;ch had b-en expressed. Prior to the presentation. all the workmen and em ployees sat down to a splendid dinner at Pensarn Hall provided by Mr Richards.

AJBERDOVEY. COUNTY COUNCIL.—Mr W. Jones has been re- turned unopposed to be a member of the county council loi- Aberdovey. ENTERTAINMENTS,—Mr Tom Barger and family- gave two entertainments at the Assembly Rooms this week. The attendances were fairly good and all who attended were highly pleased. SUCCESS.—Mr J. J. Morgan, son of Mrs Morgan, Cliff Side, won the first prize at the competitive meeting in Liverpool last week for the best pencil portrait of the late Dr O. Thomas. SHIPPING.—The steamer Grisal arrived here last Friday with cement and sailed on Sunday. Several ships have come here recently in ballast from neighbouring ports and are now loading slates at the wharf. I PANTEIDAL HALL.—This beautiful house, built in Swiss style for the late proprietor, Mr S. B. Wright, and situated about two miles on the Machynlleth roxd, has been bought by Lord Charles Ker. GENERO.SITY. Mr J. Edwards, Wyoming, U.S.A., surviviag son of the late Mr Robert Edwards, Pi,"r House, who has been staying for a few days in this town, his old home, on Monday morning pêfsonary visited the poor people of the place and generously left a substantial Sum of money at eich houso. All the old faces he im- mediately recognized, greeting their owners by name, although about twenty-five years have eltpsed since he left Aberdovey to join his brother in the Far West. He is now a successful cattle rancher in Wyoming and Colorado. During his b, ief iojonrn in this country, Mr Edwards has been staying with his sister, Mra Davies, Vicarage, Pwllheli.

LAMPETER. AMBULANCE.—The ambulance class has recently been restarted with a i-neii-ibership of eighteen. Dr Cluneglas Davies is the lecturer. I)EFUTV COROXERSHIP.—Dr Griffith?, Lampeter, hav- ing resigned the appointment of deputy coroner for South Cardiganshire, Dr Abel Evans, the coroner, nominated Mr D: T. Davies, solicitor, for the post. The Lord Chancellor, however, has declined to confirm the appoint- ment, stating that ratification of the appointment' rests with the County Council. with the County Council. FOOTBALL NIATCI-I.-On Saturday a very evenly- contested rugby football match took place between Lampeter Town team and Llandovery Town. The visitors played five of the College players. A sollJewhat rough game ended in favour of Lampeter by one goal to nil. TROUT FISHING.—The fishing season opened on Tuesday very successfully. Fine baskets of trout were taken from the Teify by the following — David Jones, White Lien, 5 pounds John Jones, White Lion, 5 pounds; James Lewis, Parcyriios, 4 pounds and James Morgan, Fountain Iun, b pounds. COUNTY COUNCIL ELECTION.—There will be no contest in the bcrough in connection with the County Council election. Mr J. C. Harford (C.), the former member, will be returned unopposed. In the 11aetir, Llanwnen, and Silian division, there will be a contest, the candidates being Mr J. D. Jenkins (L.), auctioneer, and S. D. Jones (C.), Petervvoll. There will also be a fight in the Llan- fair division. The candidates are Mr Walter Davies (L.C.), draper, and Mr John Davies (L.), Blaenwauu, Cellan. CONSERVATIVE CLUB.—The adjourned meeting of the members of the Conservative Club was held or. Wednesday night of last week. The following appointments, made at a previous meeting, were confirmed :—President, Mr S. D. Jones, Peterwell vice-president, Mr S. V. Davits chairman of com- mittees, Mr D. D. Evans, Dresden House Execu- tive Committee, Messrs W. Dorao, Thomas Jones, T. L. Davies, D. Owen, R. Evans, John Jones, Wm. Lewis, D. Jenkins, D. Davies, and the Rev W- J. Evans auditors, Messrs W. Lewis and D. Davies treasurer, Mr D. Jones, Old Bank and secretary, Mr William Davies. There was a good attendance, the meeting being an enthusiastic one. Tows COUSCIL.-The ordinary monthly meeting of the Town Council was held on Wednesday after- noon. The Mayor (Mr J. Ernest Lloyd) presided and there were also present Alderman Roderick Evans, Councillors T. D. Lloyd, Samuel Davies, S. V. Davips, David Davies (Queen's Arms), William Davies, D. Tivy Jones, and John Davies, with Mr Rees, acting clerk, and Mr Moore, inspector.—A petition, which should have been received at the last meeting, was read from Mill-street com- plaining or the state (f the street and the want of light. So dark was the street at night, said the petition, that persons mistook other persons' houses in the street for theirs. I (Laughter.)—The Mayor said that light had now been provided for that street, but as regarded the road the Council could not interfere.—The letter was posted at Lampeter on February 2nd, but delayed on account of it having been addressed to Mr Lloyd, the clerk, Llanbedr, Ceredigion." The local postal authorities evidently did not recogn'ze the Welsh name of their own town and county, for they iorwarded the letter to London to ascertain, and it was duly returned marked Lam- peter, Cardiganshire."—In regard to the water supply scheme, the Mayor said that the Clerk, under the direction of the Special Committee, wrote to the Local Government Board asking if they would hold the enquiry before the expiration of the three iiionths' notice, because the water supply would be required for the summer. A reply was received from the Local Government Board stating that the enquiry into the application of the loan of £2,500 for the purposes of water supply would be held at the expiration of the statutory notice. If the enquiry was held before the expiration of the period and obj e- tions to the proposed works were afterwards re- ceived, it would be necessary to direct a further enquiry. The Mayor then read the report of the Committee recommending that as the three months' notice would not expire until May and as there was no engineering difficulty connected with the work, that the Council proceed with the work at once.—On the proposition of Mr S. V. Davies, seconded by Mr T. D. Lloyd, the recommendation to proceed with the work at once was adopted.— Mr T. D. Lloyd brought up the report of the Streets Committee recommending that the Clerk should write to all persons having plots of laud on the Common to give up possession. He proposed the adoption of the report.—Mr S. V. Davies seconded the proposition and it was agreed to.— This was all the business of interest. ST. DAVID'S DAY.—The 1st of March was marked hy the customary wearing of the leek and the usual celebrations. As usual, the anniversary of the patron saint of Wales was patriotically observed at St. David's College. The national emblem and the College colours (black and gold) were worn by all. The day commenced with a celebration of the holy communion in Welsh at the College chapel at eight o'clock, followed at eleven o'clock with a Welsh service. The preacher was the Rev John Fisher, B.D., of Ruthin, and he took for his text the twenty-first verse of xxv. chapter of the Gospel according to St. Matthew, "A dywedodd ei Arglwydd wrtho, Da was, da a ffyddlawn, buost fFjddlawn ar ychydig, mi a'th osodaf ar lawer dos i mewn i lawenydd dy Arglwydd." The ser- mon, which was extremely interesting and instruc- tive, dealt chiefly with the life of St. David, from which lessons for present life were drawn. At one o'clock an adjournment was made to the College School Hall where an excellent luncheon had been provided, to which about 170 sat down. The guests included the Rev John Fisher, Ruthin the Rev J. M. Giiffiths, Aberayron Mrs Jones, the Vicar- age, Lampeter Miss Long Price and Mr R. Long Price, Talley the R^v J. and Mrs Morris, Llany- byther the Rev and Mrs Edmunds, Trefilan the Rev and Mrs T. R. Davies, Llanddewi Brefi the Rev D. Morris, Silian the Rev J. D. Lewis and Mrs Lewis, Pencarreg the Rev J. N. Evans, Llan- gybi the Rev and Mrs R. Lloyd Jenes, Bettws the Rev and Mrs D. M. Davies, Tregaron; the Rev W. J. Evans, Lampeter the Rev and Mrs Morgan Griffiths, Llauycrwys; Mrs and Miss Evaus, TaliesiD House, Lampeter; Mr and Mrs Roderick Evans, Mr and Mrs D. Joms, Lampeter Mr D. Lloyd, Bryn Mr S. D. Jones, Peterwell Mr A. R. T. Jones, Werndrew the Rev J. H. Lloyd, Talley Mrs and Miss Thomas, Mrs H. Evau3, Lampeter Mr W. J. Williams and Miss Williams, Llanerchayron; Llew Davies, Lampeter; and the Rev Thomas Jones, Llanddewi Brefi. The follow- ing were also present :-The Principal (the Rev G. W. Gent, M.A.) and Mrs Gent and Miss Linell Professor Scott, Professor Walker and Mrs Walker, FrauleinSchroter, Professor Wade, Professorand Mrs Williams, Miss Mabel Watkins, Professor and Mrs Green, Miss Roberts, the Rev and Mrs R. Camber Williams, Miss Davies, the Rev T. M. and Mrs Evans, Messrs D. J. Jones, E. M. Battiscombe, E. E. Roberts, T. F. Fisher, and the undergraduates of the College. THe repast being over, the toast list was begun. The Rev Principal Ghent proposed the" Queen and the Rest of the Royal Family." In the course of his remarks, he observed that the Queen was the great symbol of the unity of the different races of Great Britain, whilst Wales had been loyal to the English monarchy, especially dur- ing the troubled times of thi c.vil wars and the Protectorate. The toast was well received, "God Save the Qaeen being sung. Professor Williams then in a humorous Welsh speech gave Dewi Sant." He was f 11; wed by the Rev R. Camber Williams, who proposed the health of the "Preacher," to which the Rev J. Fisher suit- ably responded. The Rev J. M. Griffiths, vicar of Aberayron, then proposed the" College." He observed that a better staff of professors was not to be found in any institution of a similar kind and those who were and had been professors at St. David's College cried second to none. Amongst these who had been teachers at the College were Bishop Harold Browne, Bishop Jayne, and Bishop Owen. The proposer also referred in flattering terms to the present students. In responding to the toast, the Senior Scholar (Mr D. J. Jones) said the students were always glad to be able to wel- come amongst them so many friends, especially on such an occision, for there was no day in the year to which the students looked forward with mere joyful anticipations than St. David's Day. He also touched upon the state of athletics in the College and the work done by the different societies and dwelt on the social and religious life of the College. He, however, devoted the greater patt of his speech to the Guild of St. David. In conclusicn, he declared that the societies and guilds of the College would teach them to look the world boldly in the face, and so long as the College should con tinue to teach them. az, it had done, and was doing, its alumni would always have cause to remember it with love and gratitude. They would always look back with pleasure to the time which they spent within its walls, they would regard it as the happiest period of their life, and they would not fail to attribute whatever success they might achieve in the future, in no small de- gree, to the excellent traioing which they received from it. The Principal, who follo wed, spoke of the close connection between the Welsh Church and St. David's College. He declared that St. David's College was the only Church university in existence. It was by no means simply a theological college. It only happened that many of its students took a theological course. Rut it was a seminary in the best sense of the word. Students did not go out of it religious bigots but if the College was to do the work ot the WTelsh Church, it was absolutely necessary that Welsh clergymen all over Wales should support the College. Aft r some further remarks by the Principal, the assembly dispersed.—In the evening at the College School Hall, the annual concert in connection with the College Musical Society was held, when there was a large attendance and the concert proved one of the most successful and orderly, perhaps, ever held. The artistes engaged were the National Eisteddfod prize quartette, composed of Miss Maggie Morris, Tonrefail, soprano Miss Gwendoline Foster, Pengraig, contralto Mr Ted Hughes, Llwynpia, tenor and Mr ivor Foster, R.C.M., London, baritone Eos Dar, Mardy, penillion singer of the national eisteddfod Mr J. Biyant (Telynor Glan Taf), harpist Mr W. Griffiths, flautist Mrs Gent, violin accompanists, Mrs R. Williams and Mr M. Stanley Davies. The St David's College Musical Society, conducted by Mr W. Glynfab Y\ iiliams, also took part, and their performances received meritorious applause which reflects credit upon them and the conductor. The singing ot the qusrtette was a treat and of the members individually, who were repeatedly encored. The following wa<¡ the programme :— Iustrnmental introduction, Miss Linell song, Gwlad y Canu," Mr Glynfab Williams song, "Sing Sweet Bird," Miss Morris Lute solo, Ris- ing of the Lark," Mr W. Griffiths song, Lead, Kindly Light," Mr I. F(ster, R, C.M. penillion, Eos Dar quartette, Sleep, my Darling," Misses Morris and Foster, Messrs Hughes and Foster song, By the Waters," Mr Ted Hughes duett, 0 tell me Gentle Strarger," Miss Morris and Mr 1. Foster Eovg, The Guiding Light," Miss Gwen Foster chorus, March of the Regiment," St David's College Musical Society violin solo, Mrs Gent glee, The Little Church," S.D.C. Musical Society ,oDg, Y Cymro," Mt 1. Foster, R.C.M, song, Good Bye," Miss Gw, n Foster penillion, Eos Dar quartette, The Sea hath its Pearls," Misses Morris and Foster, Messrs Hughes and Foster piccolo solo, The Sparrows," Mr \V. Griffiths eong, Llam y C iriadau." Miss Morris song, Tell her I love her so," Mr Ted Hughes duett, "Over the Hawthorn Hedge," Miss Morris and Miss Foster chorus, The Pilgrims," (solo sung by Mr Ivor Foster, R.C.M.), S.D.C. Musical Society. This ended what must be regarded as the most successful celebration of St David's Day ever held in Lampeter. SPECIAL PETTY SESSIONS, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25TH. —Before T. H. R. Hughes, Neuaddlwyd, in the chair Dd. Davies, Felindre, and John Powtien, Eqrs. Alleged Milk Aditite)-atioit. -Thomas Davies, Lock and Key Inn, Pencarreg, Carmarthen, licensed victualler, was charged by D.C.C. Williams with having sold milk adulterated with six per cent of water to P.C. Thomas on February 2nd.—Mr David Davies asked if sometimes milk unadulterated with water was below the standard ? —D.C.C. Williams said he had not come across such in- stances.—Mr Davies said he knew for a fact that occasionally that the milk of poorly-fed cows was below the standard.—Mr Hughes said he had read of one case where the milk was below the standard through the cow being overfed.—Defendant's wife appeared and said a little water llJiht have been in the milk. The cans bad been cleaned by her little daughter and some of the water might have been in the can when the milk was poured into it.-It was stated that defendant was con- victed on a similar charge in 189(5.—The Bench dismissed the case with a caution.—D.C.C. Williams applied for the Analyst's fee, but the Bench refused the application. Whiskey Adulteration.—Gwen Jones, Yale of Teivy Inn, Llanybyther, Pencarreg, licensed victualler, was charged with having sold whiskey ten per cent too weak to P.C. Thomas on Tuesday, February 3rd.—John Davies, Penlan, Pencarreg, appeared on behalf of the defendant and ad- mitted the offence.—D.C.C. Williams said the maximum penalty in cases of adulteration was £ 20.— The certificate of the Analyst was handed in showing that whiskey was thirty-five per cent underproof, the percentage under- proof permissible being twenty-five per cent.—Defendant was fined 5s and ordered to pay the Analyst's fee, £1 Is. Drunk and Disorderl/i.—Kbenezer Jones, Bryngwynne, Llanwenog, labourer, was charged by P.C. Dd. Edwards, Drefacb, Llanwenog, with having lieen drunk and dis- orderly at iNew Court on February 15th.—Defendant said he had not had much drink."—P.C. Edwards said defendant created a disturbance and swore when he saw him. He then went into the house of a friend.—Fined 2s tiel with costs. Application for Removal.—Mr David Lloyd, clerk to the Guardians, applied for an order of removal to the Builth Union in the case of Margaret Bowen, late of Cilfynydd. Thomas Bowen said she was twenty-live years of age. She was married at Builth in June 1N!K aud her husband, Isaac Owen, a few months ago deserted. She had no idea where he had gone. She entered the Lampeter \Vrork- nouse in Aovemoer last, rmenao one Child aged fttteen months.-Evideuce was then submitted showing that the woman had not resided twelve months in the Lampeter Union before she became chargeable and that she was consequently chargeable to the Builth Union.—The Bench granted an order of removal. BOARD OF GUARDIANS, FRTnAY FEBRUARY 2DTH.— Present: Mr David Davies, F.lndre chairman, pre- siding Mr John Fowden, Bank Hall, vice-chairman Messrs Timothy Davies, Lampeter David Davies, Cellan David Price, Lampeter Rural Thomas Morgan, Llaugybi Evan Davies, Llanwenog T. H. R. Hughes, Llanwnen; John Jones, Llan- wnen Messrs David Lloyd, clerk E. D. Rees, assistant clerk Evan Jones, master Dr Abel Evaus, medical officer and David Parry, relieving officer. Statistics.-Out relief administered during the past fort- night, Llanybyther district, per Mr David Evans, Jt41 10s Id to 140 paupers Lampeter district, per Mr David Parry, £345" to 146 paupers amount received in respect of relief for the ensuing fortnight, C84. Number of inmates in the House, 1í-i; last year corresponding period, 17. Vagrants relieved during the fortnight, 46, an increase of 19 compared with corresponding period last year. The Supply of Coffins:.—"Mr Evan Williams, Red Lion, Newcourt, who is aged eighty-four and has for fifty-one years contracted with the Union for suppling coffins for paupers in the Llanwenog district, appeared before the Board and applied for an increase in the price paid for cotfins. The amount paid was XI and he applied for Ids extra, stating that unless the advance was made he would supply no more coffins." Mr John Jones, Tivyside, proposed that the application should be granted, stating that Williams had served the Board faithfully and well. —Mr Evan Davies seconded the proposition and concurred with Mr Jones's remarks.—The Chairman said it would be rather hard upon the other contractors for coffins if Williams's salary was increased and no increase made in theirs. The question was should they grant the increase or advertise for fresh contracts ? He did not see that the Board eould very well make an exception of Williams much as they should like to do.—The Board decided to accept W iiliams s resignation, the appointment expiring twenty-eight days after the notice had been given. It was further agreed to consider the question of the prices for coffins at a future meeting. 1 Assessment.— Mr Dd. Davies, Cellan, incidentally re- marked that the ratepayers of his parish had unanimously decided not to adopt the new valuation lists of Mr Harford.—Mr John Jones did not see why the lists should be- called Mr Harfords's lists. They were being adopted all over the county.—The Chairman asked whether the last meeting of the Assessment Committee was the ordinary meeting and a reply in the affirmative was given.-The matter then lapsed. Habitual Drunkards—.A communication was read from the Birmingham Parish Union in reference to habitual drunkards and stating that being convinced of the urgent need for legisation on the question unanimously adopted the resolutions enclosed The resolutions were to the effect that in the experience of the Board habitual drunkenness was the cause of a large proportion of pauperism and crime; that the act of facilitating the con- trol and cure of habitual drunaards had failed in the pur- pose it was intended to serve by leaving the power of detention to the initiative of the drunkard, and was thereby rendered practically inoperative for the benefit of the numerous cases occurring in all classes of society, especially amongst the industrial classes, where the evil consequences were the more severely felt; that the main- tenance of drunkards either in workhouses or in Poor Law infirmaries, whose cure might have been effected by early and efficient restraint, and in many cases the care of their families also, fall on the parish authorities by reason of insufficient legislative powers; that on sufficient proof being furnished of any person being an habitual drunkard, he or she may be certified for com- pulsory detention in like manner as is now done under the several acts for the detention of lunatics, all necessary safeguards being provided to prevent abuse; that it may be enacted that it shall he the duty of the local authorities either severally or conjointly to make the necessary provision for the reception of this class of cases that a petition be forwarded to the Home Secretary, under the seal of the Board, urging upon him the desirability of taking such steps as may be necessary for amending or repealing the existing Act or otherwise to create the necessary powers —The Chairman said it was a very good thing —Mr John Jones concurred.—Th Cl'»vk said the Act at present provided that the consea of the drunkard would have to be obtained before actio could be taken.—The resolutions were unanimousl adopted, and it was agreed to write to the county memb on the matter. A Di^piit-. tl Claim.-A chillI for X12 for the supply of heating apparatus to the House was sent in ly Mr Pernberton, plumber, Aberystwyth.—The Master aud the Clerk considered the charges excessive, the former saying it was out of reason.—It was decided to write to Mr Pemberton asking him to send in an amended bill, failing which that an independent person should be appointed to arbitrate.—In reply to questions, the Clerk said in the event of Mr Pemberton declining to meet with the Board's wishes they would have to go to law.