Towyn-on-Sea and Merioneth County Times

The school question at Llanegryn has, at last taken a definite form. The Merioneth County Governing Body (into whose hands the care of the school buildings has been transferred since May last) have decided to send a committee to inquire on the spot into the circumstances connected with the school and to find out the powers invested in the County Governing Body. In the first place these gentlemen will find an endowed school trans- ferred into an elementary school, they will also find what is known as the headmaster's house tians- formed into a Vicarage. But it may be argued that the Vicar is the headmaster. If the Vicar is the headmaster then there is ground for saying that he has not adequately fulfilled his duties. At any rate the ratepayers are not satisfied with the way he fulfils them. The inquiry will clear the air and show the public on whom they should lay blame, if blame there be. The actual if not nominal head- master of the school has to be content with a private house. The charity has not been satis- factorily administered in the past, and unless some change is brought about this school question may be settled by the parishioners demanding a School Board. The ratepayers of Barmouth will have to pay heavily for the serious blunder made by their Dis- trict Council. That the Council has made a grave blunder seems evident from the fact that the Master of the Rolls last week dismissed their appeal with costs without calling upon the respondent's counsel to speak. Of the sincerity and good faith of the Council in defending what they believed to be the rights of the ratepayers there may bo no question, but there can be as little doubt that they have been exceedingly ill-advised and have from first to last played a losing game. They have been bpaten hopelessly, and whosesoever the blame may be those who will have to bear the burden will be the unfor- tunate ratepayers. The Assizes for four of the counties in North Wales were held at Ruthin on Saturday last. The cases were more serious than usual. The case from Towyn was a very blundering attempt at fraud, and from one point of view the sentence was pretty severe. The offender was a novice at de- ception evidently, and the fraud was of such a character that Friendly Societies under ordinarily stringent rules should have little difficulty in pre- venting them from occurring. #

TOWYN. THE SAD FATALITY AT WREXHAM GASWORKS.— The young man Walker who made several gallant attempts to rescue the man Hesketh at the above works, and who finally succeeded in getting him from the cellar ubder the purifier, is a brother of Mr W. Lee Walker, clerk of the works on the beach. An attempt is being made to reward his gallantry. THE BAND.-Membors of the band are busy col- lecting funds towards securing new lamps. We understand that their appeal is not in vain as their reception is all that could be expected. As the official band it has special grounds for asking for support this winter inasmuch as they have on several occasions delighted both the visitors and the inhabitants of the town. GOOD TEMPLARS.—On Friday evening an open lodge was held, under the presidency of the Rev. J. D. Evans, Chief Templar. It had been decided that ths Rev. Edmund Griffith, Liverpool, a delegate from the Grand Lodge, should address the meeting, and consequently there was a large attendance. The Rev. gentleman delivered a most practical address on temperance, dealing more especially with the progress Good Templarship had made .during the reign of Her Majesty Queen Victoria.- Addresses were also delivered by the Rev. J. D. Evans, Mr J. liar Davies, the Rev. J. M. Williams, and the Rev. J. H. Syniond.-On the suggestion of the Rev. Edward Griffith, all the members took upon themselves the responsibility of making an attempt to bring a friend to be made a member of the Lodge. The meeting was considered to be a PQCCQSSful oue. ST. JOHN AMBULANCE ASSOCIATION.—The Towyn branch of the above association held their first meeting on Wednesday evening at the National School, Dr H. G. Jones being the lecturer. The class is confined to 30 members, but we understand that over 40 persons have already applied for membership. REHEARSAL.—On Friday evening the Calvinistic Methodists held a rehearsal at their places of wor- ship. It is said that the singing was not up to the usual standard, but a great improvement is ex- pected at the next rehearsal, which will be held in a month's time. Mr J. T. Rees, Aberystwyth, was the conductor. WESLEY GuILD.-An entertainment was given on Tuesday evening, the Rev R Jones in the chair. Mr J. Jones, junior, gave out the hymn and opened the meeting with prayer. Then followed an address by the Chairman; quartette, "Sychu y dagrau," Miss Davies and party; recitation, "Evan a Hugh," Miss B. M. Jones; in the competition for describing an object the prize was taken by Mr Hugh Jones; song, The Mispah song, Mr D. 0. Jones; adroddiad, "Arwrgerdd Madog," Mr William Evans, (Gwilym Crug) quartette, Cyfodwn, awn i ryfel," Miss Jones and party. Three new members were enrolled, and about 50 of the members were present.

ABERDOVEY. WHEN THE result of the Barmouth Council appeal was known in Aberdovey on Thursday, flags were put up in High Street and at all the houses Mr Abraham Williams was engaged building. THE HUMANE SOCIETY.-Medals and certificates have been received by Messrs R. A. Richar&s, R. R. Bell, and Thomas Jones from the above society in recognition of their bravery in saving the life of a young girl at Aberdovey in the course of the summer. THE LATE REV JOHN EVANS. The Rev R. Garrett Roberts and Mr E. L. Rowlands, Dyfii, of this town, suggest that a memorial chapel should be raised at Pontypridd in memory of the above beloved divine, the funds to be raised from all parts. A STRIKING FACT.—It is rumoured that no less than thirteen suits are executed weekly on the premises of R. O. Richards, the well-known tailor, and also that the number of overcoats made this season already exceed nine dozen. This is evidently a sufficient proof of high-class tailoring at a fair price, being by far superior in public favour to the common and cheap class trade. advt.

DOLGELLEY. BENEFICIAL TO DOLGELLEY.— £ 100 given away in reductions at W. S. Williams and Griffith, Commerce House, Dolgelley. Great genuine Clear- ance Sale commencing next Saturday. Our readers will be repaid by visiting the above establishment in securing real useful and new goods afc prices that will astonish them. Remember the popular address. Commerce House. [Advt. THE LATE REV. JOHN EirANs (EGLWYSBACH).— Last Sunday evening at the Wesleyan Chapel, a special service in memory of the above departed and well-known preacher was held, the pastor (Rev S. Parry Jones), deli 'ering an impressive sermon, followed by brief addresses from others present. PLEASANT SOCIAL GATHERING. PRESENTATION TO MR O. O. ROBERTS. On Tuesday evening a representative companv of past and present members of the Idris Choral Society, together with other supporters, sat down to dinner in the Public Rooms, the catering of which was carried out by Mrs Maslin, 4, Eldon Row. The preliminary arrangements were in the hands of a selected committee of choir members, aided by their hon. sec. (Llew Merion), and others. Presiding and assisting at the tables were a number of lady members of the society including Mrs Williams, Clifton House Miss Roberts, Board School; Miss Prichard, Queen's Row; Miss Blodwen Williams, Clifton House; Misses Hughes, Queen's Square; Miss Davies, Bridge Street; Miss Maggie Pierce, Miss Bertha Jones, Cemlyn House; Misses Lloydie and Gwennie Williams, Penbryn House Miss Parry, Bank Build- ings Miss Barnett, Tanyffynon Miss Lewis, Springfield Street; Miss Owen, Minafon; Misses Williams, Derwen House; Miss May Roberts, Union Workhouse, together with a number of other willing hands.-The tables having been cleared, Llew Meirion conducted the after proceedings, and an- nounced that a letter regretting his inability to bo present had been received from Mr R. Jones Griffith, Coedcymer, and also from Mr J. Leigh Taylor, The Cliffe (President of the Society), who sincerely regretted at the last moment his in- ability to be present owing to indisposition.-Llew Meirion said that all of them present very much regretted the absence of Mr Leigh Taylor, as they all well knew of the sincere interest he took in the work of the society, and also in the Meirion Eisteddfod. He formally moved that a suitable acknowledgment be sent to Mr Taylor and sincerely regretting the cause of his absence.—Mr W. Grimth (a member of the society) seconded, and the motion was unanimously agreed to.The pleasing ceremony followed of making a hand- some presentation to Mr O. O. Roberts, the able and indefatigable conductor of the Society, in recognition of his long, faithful, and voluntary efficient services in connection with music generally in the town and district, and as a small token of the Society's sincere sympathy with him in his present family affliction. In the unavoidable absence of Mr Taylor, Mrs Jones Parry, Bank House, at the request of the meeting kindly consented to make the presentation, which was fulfilled in suitable terms and amidst much enthusiasm. Mr Roberts returned his acknowledgment in a brief address and was warmly received. He said there were several things in connection with this movement most gratifying to him. It was unsolicited, unex- pected, and spontaneous, Another factor was that it came, it Ptarted from those who knew him best, and with those whom he had worked with for many years. It showed also, and he took it, that his efforts were appreciated (loud cheers). It was the highest gratification for anyone to learn that his efforts were appreciated. He appreciated their kindness and sympathy more than words could convey. He desired to thank them all, and particularly those who had taken active part in the movement, and those who had subscribed. In conclusion, he would repeat in the simple words of a great man who last week was presented in another place" and say Diolch i chwi o waelod fy nghalon, a pha beth bynag yw fy ffaeleddau, &c., does neb yn eu gwybod yn well na mi fy hun (loud cheers).—Complimen- tary adresses pointing to the valuable work and unceasing efforts of Mr Roberts and the elevating character of the work of the Idris Choral Society now carried on unhindered for 25 years, followed by Messrs E. W. Evans (Frondirion), Llew Meirion, W. Griffith, J. Rowlands, R. Barnett, G. Pierce, Evan James.—During the proceedings musical con- tributions were given by Messrs J. J. Thomas (Talsarnau), G. Pierce, and Evan James. Messrs M. W. Griffith and D. J. Williams accompanied. The eventful preceedings closed with a vote of thanks to Mrs Jones Parry, moved by Mr 0. 0. Roberts, and seconded by Prof. Griffith.

CORRIS. THANKSGIVING SERVICES.—The annual thanks- giving services was held at the Parish Church on Tuesday at 7 p.m., and throughout the day on Wednesday. The Rev. James Solt, Llandinoruric, preached on Tuesday night, the Rev. Titus Lewis, of Towyn, on Wednesday morning, the Rev. Wm. Lewis, Gwilym Berw, in the afternoon, and the Rev. E. Evans, Genewglyn, in the evening. There was a large attendance at each service. The Rev. Hugh Williams and other friends gave dinner and tea for the choir and visitors.

MACHYNLLETH. URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL.—TUESDAY. Present Mr R. Owen, (chairman), Messrs D. Williams, J. Edmunds, E. Rees, J. A. Thomas, R. Rees, J. Breeze, R. Gillart E. Gillart, J. Pugh, with Mr J. Rowlands, (clerk), Dr Davies, (Medical Officer), and Mr J. Jones, (surveyor). THE HORSE FAIR. Mr R. W. Hughes (chief constable) wrote that he had given the sergeant at Machynlleth, as re- quested, orders to assist the surveyor and to do all he could to keep order in the horse fair in Pentre- hedyn Street. THE PRICE OF GAS. The Secretary to the District Council wrote stating that the directors of the Gas Company had resolved to reduce the price of gas from 6s 8d to 6s per 1000 cubic feet. They would supply gas at this rate to the Council, or as an alternative would supply gas, make repairs, and paint and ligdit the lamps at L2 9s 3d each lamp during the usual season from Sept. to April, with the exception of moonlight nights. The directors suggested that the test meter be placed in the clerk's office, not in the Town Hall, the two others remaining where they were at present (hear, hear).—Mr R. Gillart moved that a vote of thanks be accorded to Lord Henry Vane-Tempest for the interest that he had taken in tht matter and to the Gas Company for their offer. Agreed-It was agreed to refer the letter to the Streets Committee. THE MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT. The Medical Officer, in his report, stated that in company with the Inspector he had visited several places in the town and had issued notices for necessary sanitary improvements. There had been several cases of over-crowding and he had been compelled to serve notices. He drew the Council's attention to the slaughter-house at Pen rait, which was not in a fit state to be nsed as such, and unless thoroughly cleaned out it would certainly affect the health of the inhabitants.—A member asked why the matter had not been dealt with at the Sanitary Committee.—The Clerk stated that there had been no quorum at the last meeting of the Sanitary Committee.—Mr R. Rees was afraid the Sanitary Committee often had no quorum. It was no use referring such matters to the Sanitary Committee unless they met.—The Chairman observed that as it was an urgent matter the Council should deal with it now.—The Surveyor remarked that more water was required.—A member said the water had to be carried from a long distarce, and it was very hard to compel Mrs Roberts to go to unnecessary expense when the water would soon be in the town. Mr E. Gillart suggested that a notice be given to abate the nuisance.—It was ultimately agreed that a written notice should be given to Mrs Roberts to clean out the slaughter house. A HEALTHY TOWN. The Medical Officer said that the town was free from infectious diseases and that there had been only two deaths between August 1st and October 23rd, and they were those of children four months old (hear, hear). He thought that was highly satisfactory. REPORTS. The Inspector's and Surveyor's reports were read and the various recommendations approved. All matters of public interest are dealt" with in the Streets Committee'sreport.—It was decided to invite tenders foi clearing out the ditches, &c.-Mr E. Gillart referred to a nuisance caused on the pre. mises of Mr Isaac Williams, and observed that there was a great deal of that sort of thing in the town, and the Council should make strenuous efforts to put it down.—It was decided that proceedings should be taken against Mr Isaac Williams and others who did not abate nuisances after the neces- sary orders had been served. WATERWORKS COMMITTEE. At a meeting of the above committee held on the 29th ult., Mr D. D. Williams prewiding, bills to the amount of X195 7s 3d were recommended for pay- ment.—The Engineer reported generally on the present state of the works which he considered very si-tisfactory.- With regard to the town supply he had given instructions to the contractor to put up stand pipes in the town and suggested that in a fortnight ohe Council should utilise the water that was now in the mains and he thought that could be done without interfering with the contract.-The Committee recommended that the engineers see the contractor thereon and report to the Council at the next meet itig.-R,esol ved that as to the tem- porary supply of water from the Cwmrwden Stream the engineers be requested to see the contractor and report to the ordinary meeting. That if satis- factory arrangements could be made a date be fixed for inaugurating the supply and define the stand post to be turned on at the date fixed. TEMPORARY SUPPLY OF WATER. Arising out of a question by the engineers in a letter to the Council, Air Edmund Gillart said he would rather wait to see the completion uf the work, as far as the contract was concerned, than have a temporary supply of water in the town.- Mr D. Williams proposed that the question of a temporary supply be for the present deferred.—Mr E. Gillart seconded and observed that as the matter would be made public the ratepayers would wish to know their reason. He would wish it. to be known that the Council deferred the question for very urgent reasons.—Agreed. -to-

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BARMOUTH. SUCCESS.—At the Synodical examination of the Calvinistio Methodists held at Machynlleth and Abergavenny on the 18th, 19th, and 20th of October, the name of the Rev R. Ernest Jones, Barmoutb, appears second on the list of successful candidates in order of merit. The name of the Rev R. Morris, M.A., Dolgelley, is fourth on the list. The examiners were the Revs R. Evans (Llan- wrtyd), E. James Jones, M.A. (Manchester), and T. Levi (Aberystwyth). THE APPEAL CASE.—On Thursday morning last confirmation of the rumour that the appeal of tho Council against the claim of Mr Abraham Williams, contractor, Aberdovey, had been dismissed was received in the town. First of all the matter was referred to arbitration, Mr Marks (Llandudno) representing the Council and Mr Morgan Davies (Swansea) the contractor. Mr Rhys Davies (Brecon) was the umpire, and the award went in favour of the contractor for X959. In the Divisional Court in August last the case again went against the Council and in favour of the award of the umpire. Still believing in the merits of their case and backed by a vote of confidence from the ratepayers, the Council again asked that their case should be heard in the Appeal Court, and the case came on on Wednesday afternoon before the Master of the Rolls and Lord Justice Chitty.—Mr. Asquith, Q C., Mr. Ellis Jones Griffith, M.P., Mr. Dancwertz, and Mr. Llewellyn Williams (instructed by Messrs Lloyd George and George) appeared for the District Council, and Mr. Channell and Mr. Griffith Jones (instructed by Mr. Hugh Hughes, Aberystwyth), appeared for Mr Abraham Williams. -Mr. Asquith addressed the Court for two hours, after which the Master of the Rolls, without call- ing upon the respondent's counsel, dismissed the appeal with costs. The real and substantial question, he said, was the construction of the original contract. By clause 6 of the specifications. the engineer was empowered to fix the value of materials which were not mentioned in specifica- tions. He (the Master) could conceive of a case where the alterations might be of so great an extent as not to come under this clause. But iL the case before them the contract remained the same, the alteration referring only to a different way of carrying it out.—Lord Justice Chitty concurred. The alterations, he said, did not annul the contract. It bad been argued that the variations were trans- formations of the original contract. The answer was that they were not. Nor did the Public Health require that such a compromise as was entered into by the Board and the contractor in November, 1894, should be under seal.-The arbitrators' award will therefore stand. COUNCIL MEETING.—A special n eeting of the Council was held on Tuesday afternoon, the Rev J. Gwynoro Davies, presiding. The committee of the whole Council in their report, said that clauses were adopted giving effect to the recommendations of the Local Government Board in reference to the draft bye-laws for the regulation of public bathing at Barmouth. It was decided to leave the adoption of additional bye-laws in reference to boating at Barmouth in abeyance. The question of having effective control over milk dealers at Barmouth was discussed, and it was decided to refer th < matter to a committee consisting of the clerk, sur- veyor, medical officer, and consulting engineer.— The report was adopted.—A letter was read from Mr. Edmund Humphreys, Sandy Creek, Bar- mouth, asking for a remission of part of the rates due in respect of his premises. He said that if he did not get an abatement he would be paying the rate twice over, as pre- viously he occupied a tenament at the TvRwvn Buildings, and the rate was included in the rent. -The Council were sorry they could not accede to the request, and the clerk was directed to inform Mr Humphreys of the Council's decision.-The Surveyor and the Medical Officer presented re- ports on the sanitary condition of Gibraltar Terrace. The Medical Officer reported as follows As directed, I have visited the premises known as Gibraltar Terrace, and beg to report thereon. They consist of six buildings, inhabited by about 17 persons. The house inhabited by Captain Lewis is fairly good. The others were more or less in a dilapidated condition. The rain freelv enters into the one tenanted by Ellen Jones There are three closets. The one iu Captain Lewis's house is in good working order. ihe other two are supposed to be used by the rest of the houses, but, owing to their condition, they cannot be so used. The drain from these closets IUUS on a level with the roof of the apartments tenanted by John Vaughan and Margaret Roberts iSn0^1"8'IT kage'-at the SEWA-E finds its way into these dwellings,particularly into that of Marearet Roberts. This probably occurs when the closet fn Captain Lewis's honse (which has water) is used There is no water in the other two I have frequently spoken of the condition of these house? and some years ago a magistrate's order to chfse them was obtained, but it was not put in force I now recommend that a new order be applied for, and if the drains are not nl in order to the satwfactiou of the sanitary inspect^ a rotable tale and other repairs to be specified by the inspector also done, the order should be enforced and the whole block closed. The Inspector also reported on the houses. They required to be repaired and drained before they were fit for habitation.—It was decided to call upon the owner, gto provide proper drainage water closets, and otherwise put the dwelling houses and tenement rooms in a fit state for human habitation within two months of serving of the notice.—The surveyor and Mr 0. W. Morris were asked to report on the water meters. The bye-laws dealing with public bathing as amended by the Local Government Board were approved and ordered to be sent up to that department.—A report from Mr T. Roberts, Portmadoc, stated that he had examined and tested the high-pressure steel cylinder filters erected by Messrs Halliday and Co., at Eithinfynydd, and he certified that the materials and workmanship, and also the action of the filters were to his sitisfaction.-It was agreed to pay Messrs Halliday the balance of their account.