The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

ABERYSTWYTH. THE COUNTY SCHOOL.—At the meeting of the Governors of the County School held on Wednesday evening it was agreed to postpone the opening of the new school until January 24th. This course has been agreed upon after carelul consultation with the architect. HARBOUR COMMITTEE.—Councillor R. Doughton presided over a meeting of this committee held on Monday eveniug. There were also present Coun- cillor D C. Hoberts (mayor), Aldermen Peter Jones and T. Doughton, Councillors Isaac Hopkins, J. P. Thomas, and E. H. James, with Mr H. L. Evans (accountant), and Mr Rees Jones (surveyor). —The Chairman read a letter from Mr Isaac Griffiths, secretary to the Steam Packet Company, informing the Committee that there were 15 tons of machinery awaiting shipment at Liverpool and the harbour dues on this was 3s 4d per ton. whilst the charge was only Is in Carnarvon and 6d at Liverpool.—Councillor Hopkins suggested 2s.— Alderman Doughton thought they should only charge one-half.—Alderman Jones agreed with this, provided that the Company made a, reduction in their freight charges.—The proposal of Alderman Doughton was agreed to, subject to the Company making a reduction as suggested. THE ENTRANCE TO THE CASTLE.—The reference in our editorial columns of last Saturday's issue to the necessity of improving toe entrance to the Castle grounds in accordance with a resolution passed by the Council has not been allowed to pass unnoticed for at a meeting of the Public Works Committee on Monday evening Alderman Doughton asked why the work had not been done. Would it not, he said, be better to have the work done before the season commences ? Besides, there was plenty of stone with which to re-erect the wall.—Alder- man Jones asked if the Council had had the neces- sary consent.—Councillor Hopkins: Yes.—Alder- man Jones: Well, the Surveyor can give us an estimate of the cost of doing the work.—Councillor Hopkins pointed out that they could not alter the plan.—Alderman Doughton: It will be a great improvement.—It was agreed on the proposal of Alderman Doughton to ask the Surveyor to prepare an estimate by the next meeting of the committee, SCHOOL BOARD.—Alderman Peter Jones presided over the ordinary meeting of the Board held on Tuesday evening. There were also present the Rev Prebendary Williams, Mr William Thomas, Mrs Griffiths, the Ven. Archdeacon Protheroe, Mr Hall; with Mr R. J. Roborts (clerk), Mr D. J. Saer (headmaster), and Mr Lloyd (attendance officer).— The Committee appointed to consider the sugges- tions made by one of Her Majesty's Inspectors of Schools now reported that they fell in with the suggestions of the Inspector that the school year should end, and begin with the opening and closing of the summer holidays, and that Standard I should be transferred to the Boys and Girls Department. —It was agreed to increase the salary of Miss M. A. Benbow to £26 per annum.—The tender of Mr C. Mechan was accepted for the supply of coal to the Schools.—Mr Lloyd reported that the attendance at the schools during the period the schools were open in December were as follows Boys 89 per cent, girls 80 per cent, average attendance 166, infants 68 per cent, average attendance 173, number on the books 255.—The Board considered the atten- dance very satisfactory.—The Board then resolved itself into committee. THE HARBOUR RAILWAY.—At the meeting of the Harbour Committee on Monday, the Borough Surveyor presented an estimate of the cost of putting into working order the line at the Harbour. The total was put down at £768 14s 3d, the principal items of which were the following: Thirty tons of second-hand rails, £80; 13 tons of chairs, £55 490 sleepers, £75; two tons of spikes, buiidiug a retainiog wall, £ 360.—Councillor Thomas was of opinion that they ought to drop thinking about it. The Council was not in a position to afford that, and they ought to go into the whole question before they spent a penny. What was their financial position at the present time ? They were in debt to the amount of £15,700 as a fixture, and out of which they could not get; there was an overdraft at the bank of £6,400, and the yearly expenses were £500 to £600, whilst the total receipts for the twelve months previous were only £58 outside the steamer account. How did they think they could face a big question like that ? He considered that Mr Jones had put it at a reasonable figure, and perhaps he had under estimated it. He took it that if they made a railway from St. David's wharf to the M. and M. Railway it would cost more. Before entertaining the idea they ought to obtain from a practical man what the cost would be. There were something like £ 400.due for harbour dues and rents now in arrears and only the other day they paid of the borough fund for the purpose of paying for this rai ¡way, aud he was of opinion tbat they ought to get this money in. He was against building a retaining wall and proposed that the Surveyor be instructed to stake out the land which the Cor- poration had purchased from Mr Taylor.—Coun- cillor E. H. James seconded.—-Alderman Donghton said that Councillor Thomas had referred to the debt of £5,000, but what was their object in buying that railway hut in order to get a return for their money. A party had taken one mine for a period of 40 years and they were going to spend £20,000 there in putting in electric light, etc. Did Coun- cillor Thomas think that these people were doing this blindfolded and headlong. They wore going in for blende and the only market for it was on the continent. The blende must come down to Aber- ystwyth, it would not go to Swansea because the charges would be too much. It was useless to say that there was so much debt, for unless they would do something it would remain a debt. As a gentle- man said the other day the harbour was a white elephant," and surely it was their duty to transform that white elephant" into a golden one (laughter). Now every paltry thing was made an obstacle to hinder the work from going on. He said that this JE800 was nothing at all to spend upon a thing they were sure of getting it returned. Let them get the railway fixed to-morrow, and they would receive a return for it. There were the Cwmystwyth mine employing over a hundred men, and the Lisburne mines were going to be put on. Then again if the East to West Wales Railway was carried out the town would be put in close connection with the Midlands. Surely they were not going to sleep And he promised them this that if the committee did not take the matter up he would ask the Mayor to*call a meeting of the ratepayers for he felt sure they would be with him.—Councillor Hopkins asked that the question should be adjourned for a fort- night, and in the meantime that the Surveyor let each member of the Council have a copy of the estimate.—The Committee agreed to the proposal of Councillor Thomas to stake out the land, and the suggestion of Councillor Hopkins was adopted. PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE.—Alderman Pe Jones presided over the meeting of this commit^^?1 held on Monday evening. There were also present Councillor D C Roberts (mayor), Alderman T. Donghton, Councillors John Jenkins, R Doughton, Isaac Hopkins, R Peake, and E H James, with Messrs E H Eva.ns and Rees Jones, surveyor.—Dr Abraham Thomas, medical officer, presented his report for the quarter which showed that there had been 44 births, viz., 17 males and 27 females, yielding a birth rate of 221 per thousand on the 7,971 basis. The deaths were 34, yielding an annual death rate of 16 per thousand on the 8,500 basis. Three deaths occurred amongst strangers, and 31 were distributed amongst the inhabitants, being at the rate of 8'15 upon the 7,971 basis. During the quarter scarlet fever had broken out. During the last quarter of the year scarlet fever was always more prevalent, and it seemed to re-visit districts after periods of five or six years. There were 38 cases and out of this number three proved fatal, one a child of one year and seven months, and two of eight and nine years respectively. The first case occurred at a house in Poplar row and the butter purchased by the occupants came from a farm the tenants of which were suffering from sore throats, but which in no wise resembled scarlet fever. The schools were closed for twenty-one days and there wers only two fresh cases after this.— Alderman Doughton asked if the house referred to had been inspected.—The Medical Officer: Yes, I was the medical attendant.—Alder- man Doughton asked who was the authority re- sponsible for inspecting these places.—The Chair- man said that it was part of the work of the Rnral Council and he believed that they had adopted the notification of Diseases Act.—Alderman Donghton was of opinion that steps should be taken by the authorities to see that milk and butter were free from impurities.—The MedicalOfficersaid he did not say that the butter was the cause of the outbreak, he only suggested this as a possibility. — The Chairman: You cannot define the germs of scarlet fever.—The Medical Officer: No, you cannot.— In answer to the Mayor, Dr Thomas said he was certain that the outbreak did not arise from the milk.—The Chairman said that had it not been for this outbreak the past year's record would have been an excellent one as there was not a single case reported up to the last month.—The report was adopted.—A few plans and specifications were gone into, and the meeting resolved itself into committee to consider the question of the appoint- ment of an Inspector of Nuisances. FINANCE COMMITTEE.—lfipncillor C. M. Williams presided over a meetin this Committee on Tuesday evening. Thej^HBKtfao present Coun- cillors John Jenkins (e^na/Hc. E. Salmon, and D. C. Roberts (mayor), i^^Hr H. L. Evans (borough accountant), and Mr Rees Jones (borough I surveyor). —The labour sheets together with a large number of bills were passed.—Councillor Salmon said that he noticed Boxing Day was kept off the men.—The Chairman said that they were looking up the minute book.—Councillor Salmon How long does it take to look np the minutes ?—The Chairman It depends I suppose upon the time you have at your disposal.—The Chairman asked if the report had been received from the auditors re the transfer of the Burial Board. — The Borough Accountant replied that it had not been received.— The Chairman suggested that the Borough Ac- countant should ask for it.—The Chairman said that he had a very pleasing piece of news. Alder- man Jones and himself had had two meetings with Mr Thomas Morris and his son with reference to the widening of Mill street, and also the renewal of the lease of the premises in Mary street. Their last meeting took place that afternoon and they had arrived at a proposed settlement of the question (hear, hear). The terms of the settlement were then mentioned in private, and on the motion of the Mayor, seconded by Councillor T. E. Salmon, the Committee heartily approved of the recommendation. If the Council agree to the terms the widening of the street will be carried out by April 1st.—It was decided to ask the Town Clerk to report upon the question of forms of agreements with a view of having them printed.—Councillor T. E. Salmon asked what had been done in respect to the applicants for sites at the back of South Terrace.—Tne Surveyor said that he had been asked to arrange for the selection of the sites. The applicants had attended at the office and they pre- sented an amended list which aow contained only four of the original applicants.—The Mayor sug- gested that sites should be granted to the original four and then make a ballot for the others.— Coun- cillor Salmon agreed to this.—The Mayor thought that the name of Mr Rowlands should be added.— The Chairman: Yes, I added his name to my list. —The Ex-Mayor said that if the sites were put up to auction thev would have had no trouble with them.—Councillor Salmon suggested that they should have a definite statement from those who had withdrawn for fear that they would turn round and say that they were not fairly treated.— The Mayor then proposed that they grant sites to the original four and Mr Rowlands, and invite applicants for the remainder.—The names were Messrs John Owen, Wm. Price, Evan Edwards, Thomas Rowlands and R. R. Ellis.—The Mayor said there appeared to be some misunderstanding re- garding the meaning of the words trafficking in sites." It was thought that this prevented them borrowing money, but he explained that it was only inserted in order to prevent any sale of the land whilst a land, but it did not prevent them borrow- ing money npon the land for building purposes.— The Chairman Quite so.—The sites will be alloted to the applicants in the order of their names.—The Committee did not go into the question of the ex- tension of the Borough, but those who were present examined the map shaded by the Borough Surveyor. ABERYSTWYTH COUNTY SCHOOL GOVERNORS. Mr R. Richards (chairman), presided over a meeting of the Governors of the County School held on Wednesday evening when there were also present Mrs Jessie Williams, Rev T. E. Levi, Pro. Genese, Mr John Evans, Mr C. M. Williams, Mr Robert Ellis, with Mr Saml. Evans, clerk, Mr David Samuel, headmaster, and Mr Morgan architect.— Mr George Davis the vice-chairman wrote thank- ing the Governors for the vote of condolence passed by them at their last meeting.—Mr W. T. Jones (of Melbourne) wrote thanking the Governors for the kind offer extended to him to open the new school, but at present he could not say if he would be in England at that time.—A letter from Mr Fryer clerk to the County Goverring Body was read enclosing a list of successful candidates in the recent scholarships for the county. — The Clerk said that he proposed sending copies of the list to headmasters of the Elementary Schools. He might say that the list for their school compared very favourably with other districts. A letter from the Chief Inspector of Schools stated that Le proposed at the next visit to make enquiries as to the regulations for the supervision of approved lodgings.—The Clerk said that he expected the Headmaster would submit some regulations for the consideration of the Governors.—The Clerk said that the total yrant received from the Science and Art Department Genese questioned whether it waR worth while upsetting the regulations of the school for such a small sum as that mentioned. He felt that it would pay them better to concentrate their work on the Central Board Examination.—The Chairman Then will you propose at the next meeting that. it is not worth while sending pupils ill for thi8 examination ? —Prof. Genese: Yes: you might put it on the agenda. — Mrs Jessie Williams But the pupils must have a voice in the matter.—Mr John Evans pointed out that the arrangements for the present session had been made.—Prof. Genese: Oh, yes; but it is worth considering.—The architect reported that the scoools would not he completely ready for occupation on January 17th owing to the non- arrival of the stores, and it was decided, on the proposition of the Rev. T. Levi, seconded by Prof. Genese, to postpone the opening of the school from January 17th to January 24th, and extending the term to April 21st, instead of April 14th.—It was also decided to send out cir- culars throughout the districts announcing the fact and calling attention to the superior education given in the schools.—The Governors confirmed the appointment of Mr J. H. Appleton, Oldham, as art master at a salary of £160 of which sum the County School contributed £20 with the grants.— The Governors then considered the regula- tions submitted by the Head Master as to the approved lodgings.—Mr Robert Ellis said that they as Governors must act as parents in this case and see that the lodgings were in a sanitary state, and that the bedrooms should be of a reasonable size and not over-crowded. He thought that this should be referred to a. committee.—Mr C. M. Williams fully agreed with this, and men- tioned that Mr Rees Jones, the surveyor, had to certify as to the sanitary state of the dwelling house. He suggested that the Clerk should obtain copies of regulations from other schools.— The Governors appointed Mrs Williams, Mr Ellis and Mr John Evans, to consult with the headmaster as to the regnlations.—The Governors then went into committee.

LLANYMAWDDWY. EPIPHANY".— This old festival was kept up in the old way at the Parish Church, on Friday evening, by singing of carols, &c. A short address was given by Rev J. Jenkins, Rector. Carols were sung by the following: Perthyfelin party (which party has been singing regularly the last 50 years), R. Roberts, Nant-y-modyr, D. Roberts (a blind musician) and party—the blind musician's own original compositions; Hugh Rees, David Rees, Male Voice Party, led by Mr T. Cilwern Davies. The church was crammed.

MALLWYD. PLYGAJN.—On Monday night Plygain was held in the Parish Church. Carols were sung. — +

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF WALES, ABERYSTWYTH. SUCCESSES OF STUDENTS. In addition to the successes gained in the pass examinations for the London B.A. and B. Sc. degrees, students of the College have gained the following distinctions in honours in the two ex- aminations named. B.A. Honours :—English (Third Class) Margaret Hettie Alexander, George Alfred Parry, Eleanor Elizabeth Willis. French (First Class): Florence Emma Chocqueel; Second Class, Geo. Alfred Parry. B. Sc. Honours: Mathematics (Second Class), John Alexander Clark. Experi- mental Physics (Second Class), Michael Edgar White. Botany (Third Class), Albert William Bartlett, Winifred Mary Ross. Zoology (Second Class), Albert William Bartlett, Winifred Mary Ross. Geology and Physical Geography (Third Class), Albert William Bartlett, and on the results of the pass examination the Gilchrist Book prize of £10 and a medal was awarded to Miss Cavill. This prize is awarded to the female candidate who passes highest, provided she obtain not less than two-thirds of the total number of marks. A. J. Grieve, B.A., a former student, passed in the first class (with prize) the first examination in Hebrew Text of the Old Testament, in the Greek Text of the New Testament, and in the evidences of the Christian religion and in Scripture history.

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ABERDOVEY. CAPE ST. VINCENT.—The above is the name given to a cutting in the main road leading from Abel" dovey to Towyn, said to resemhle Cape St. Vincent in Portugal in a remarkable degree. It is curious thnt the rock is painted eve"y year the words "Cape St. Vincent," and that the person who paints it is totally unknown. It has but lately been painted for another year. C. M. DEBATING SOCIETY.—The subject of debate at Tuesday's meeting was Nonconformity Is it an advantage or a disadvantage ? 1\11' '1'. Bowen spoke on the artirmati/e, and Miss Charles on the negative. There was an animated discussion, and subsequeutly a majority were shown to be in favour of the existence of Nonconformity. TEMPERANCE —The Assembly Room was crowded on Sunday eveniug, the chair being occupied by Talfardd. Addresses were delivered by Mr W. Jones, Mr Oscar Symond, Towyn; Mr John Lum- lev and Mr John Owen. Miss Jones, Abergynolwyn, gave an appropriate recitation These meetings are doing a considerable amount of good in the town. The officers for the year were subsequently appointed as follows: President, Mr John Evans, draper; treasurer, Mr D. D Evans; secretaries, Mr John Lumley and Mr George Jones. INDEPKNDKNT ORDER OF RECHABITES.—The mem- bers of the Auger Dyfi Tent held their annual supper at the Board School, on Tuesday evening, when the members of both the adult and juvenile tents sat down to a splendid repast prepared for them by Mrs Roberts, Cbapel Square. The guests present were the Rev J. O. Thomas, Dr Bonner, Mr W. Jones, Captain John Evans, Mr John Owen and Mr J. Evans. ,A meeting was afterwards held when Mr W. J. Hughes, C.R., presided. The Chair- man congratulated the members upon the success which had attended1 their efforts since the tent was started three years ago. Their membership had gradually increased and as their health had been exceptional their funds had gone up in proportion. One strange fact in con- nection with their tent was, tLat not a single death had occurred among the members from the com- mencement (loud applause). He remembered the time when the Old Club (as it was called) was in a most flourishing condition. To-day it was not so and he was sorry. The other Society—the Oddfellows—were most prosperous and he was sure its members would admit that their tent instead of doing it harm had stimulated it to greater activity and was indirectly the cause of its recent increased success. The Chairman read a telegram from Mr. Gray, Jersey, wishing the tent success and a happy evening. The following statistics were then read by Mr. Robert Griffiths (secretary):—Membership Dec. 31, 1897, adults 45, juveniles 24; admitted during they ear, 10 adults; left the town, 3, making the total membership Dec. 31, 1898, adults, 52; juveniles, 24. That night they had admitted eight adults and ten juveniles making the member- ship 60 adults and 34 juveniles (loud cheers). Receipts for the year were £53 8s 9d; funds Dec- ember 31st, 1897, JE57 Is 4d; total, JE110 10s Id. Payments, sick pay, JE11 lis 8d; management expenses and medical officer, £20 16s 9d making balance to December 31st, 1898, JE78 Is 8d. Mr J. Evans one of the auditors spoke highly of the Secretary's work. On his motion, seconded by Mr J. E. Jones, the report was adopted. Song, "Rechabiaid ydym ni" (wordsjby Dyfi), Mr J. Lumley, junior. Mr W. Jones, R.O., superinten- dent of the juvenile tent gave a report of the work doue by the Juveniles, and he gave a warm invitation to some of the older members to visit their tent meetings occasionally. He himself enjoyed the meetings very much.—The Chairman then called upon Mr W. D. Evans to propose a vote of thanks to Dr Bonner in English. Mr Evans had great pleasure in proposing a very hearty vote of thanks to their worthy Medical Officer, he hoped they would bear with him when sailing his vessel in the English Channel as he was more acquainted with the Welsh Coast (loud laughter). Dr Bonner had been very faithful, and had done his best to keep their young tent in good health. He deserved their best thanks, and they were all £ >roud that they had a medical man so kind and able living in their beautiful town. He proposed a vote of thanks to Dr. Bonner with verv great pleasure (loud cheers). — Mr Ffestin Williams seconded, and the vote was passed with acclamation. —Dr. Bonner, in acknowledging the vote, said he was sorry he could not do so in their own language, but the sou. he had no doubt would be able to do so in Welsh (laughter). He thanked r,hem for electing him again to be their medical officer, and he was glad to hear that the tent prospered so well financially. He deprecated the extreme language of some teetotallers, but admired constant and steady work like theirs (cheers). MdE. L. Rowlands then proposed a vote of thanks to the guests and Mr E. Jonessecondpd. In responding, Mr W. Jones, said he supported all the societies in the town, but the Rechabites Club had a special claim on his sympathy and support, because of its connection with temperance. The Rev J. O. Thomas also responded. Their temperance work was of a practical kind and he wished them all suc- cess. The Chairman then proposed, and Mr J. Lumley seconded a hearty vote of thanks to the officials, which was passed with cheers. Mr D. Jones, Sychnant, in an amusing speech, proposed a vote of thanks to Mrs Roberts, the waiters, and carver.—Mr John Jones, Copper- hill Street, seconded, and the motion was passed with acclamation. A most successful meeting then closed with a song and chorus by Mr Ffestin Williams and the audience. AN ABERDOVEY ASSAULT CASE. — Margaret Evans, Level Crossing, Aberdovey, summoned Charles Tomkins for threatening her; Samnel Evans, her husband, also summoned defendant for assault, and there was a cross-summons issued by Tomkins.—Mr Pugh (of the firm of Messrs Minshall and Parry Jones, Oswestry) appeared to prosecute and Mr A. J. Hughes was for the defence. An arrangement was arrived at so that the three cases were takAn together.—Mr Pugh said that Mrs Evans had charge of the level crossing for the Cambrian Railway Company and her husband was a platelayer in the employ of the Company. Par- ticular attention was paid to the line between five and six as instructions had been received to close the gates.—Margaret Evans said that on the[28th December she was, as usual, in charge of the crossing. The defendant Tomkins used to send his cows to the common and to bring them back in the evening across the line. The witness said she watched the crossing very carefully from fife to six because it was train time. She went to the crossing and, seeing nobody there, returned to the house. Shortly afterwards she heard a knock at the door. When she opened the door she found Tomkins, who began to curse, and use the most disgusting language, which she could not repeat in Court. He also held his fist above her head and assumed a threatening attitude. She slipped away to look after the line as it was about train time. Hearing the loud voice of the defendant, her husband came on and Tomkins immediately dealt him a blow on the side of the head, from which blood flowed profusely. Tomkins then ran off ejaculating that he had given it to the old Welsh b Witness woald like the Bench to bind the defendant to keep the peace. At this stage, Mr Arthur J. Hughes suggested that an arrangement might be arrived at whereby both parties would be bound over to keep the peace. —The witness was asked if she was willing to enter into such an agreement, and replied in the affirma- tive, as on her part she always lived peacefully.— Mr Pugh said the witness did not understand the meaning of being bound over, and on being asked by the Magistrates' Clerk if she would become friends with Tomkins she said she would never more have anything to do with him.—The Bench then decided to hear the case further.-Proceeding with her evidence, she said Tomkins had threatened her on two previous occasions. She had bad to consult a doctor.—Cross-examined Tomkins said she did not attend to the gates as she ought to, but the charge was untrue. There was some little ill- feeling between them previous to this affair. She was certain she did not hear the little girl (Tomkins's niece) shouting gate, gate."—Samuel Evans, platelayer, husband to the previous witness, gave corroborative evidence. He heard Tomkins cursing his wife and his little boy, and went to the door. He asked what the row was about, where- upon Tomkins struck him on the side of the head, which caused a lacerated wound. He also received another blow. He did not letaliate, as he had no chance.—Cross-examined He did try to defend himself, although he had no chance at all to strike back. Pressed if he would retaliate if he had the chance witness said he went to the door to see what the matter was, and hot with the object of striking anyone.—Hugh Evans, a boy 13 years of age, said he saw Tomkins striking his father twice. He afterwards ran away.—That was the case for the prosecution.—Tomkins was sext called and said he used to send his cattle to the common and send his little niece for them in the evening before dusk. On this particular date the little girl went for them about four o'clock, and not seeing her returning he went to see what was the matter. He found the little girl waiting at the gate and calling "gate, gate." He went to the door and^asked Mrs Evans why she did not open the gate, and she replied that the girl would have to come to the door and not call at the gate. She called him (witness) a roguish old devil "—(Mrs Evans Oh dear me) —and threw a piece of paper into hia face. When the cattle had come to the road Samuel Evans with I his fists clenched came to him and he (witness) had to strike him back in self defence. Ilu wao siiuck by Evans under the ear. (Witness then went to thn Bench and showed the Magistrates the marks of the blow as well as a tooth which be said had been struck out by a blow). When Mrs Evans saw them together she shouted Give it him, Sam." She had a stick in her hand and at that time he thought it discretion on his part to leave.—Rosie May Tomkins, the little girl, was then called to state that she was kept waiting at the gate. The blinds of the window of the house were drawn, but. she saw Mrs Evans inside the house.— Eliza Tomkins said when her brother came home. he had a wound under his ear which was bleeding, j He was also bleeding from the mouth.—Mr Hughes in his address, said he knew he was not defending j an angel, but trusted that the Bench had an open i mind in the matter. He was sure that the defen- dant Tomkius was not solely responsible for the affair as was maintained in the evidence. He com- plained that the Cambrian Railways Com pan y was always ready to prosecute, a remark which Air Pugh denied. He was not there to represent the Railway Company.—Mr Hughes said he came from the office of the solicitor to the Company.—After about ten minutes deliberation the Chairman said the Bench had no doubt whatever that Tomkins was the first aggressor. He would have to pay a fine of five shillings. As regards the charge of threatening the woman, he would be bound over in the sum of £5 to keep the peace. As to his own case it would be dismissed.—The Chairman warned defendant against a recurrence of such a thing. If he appeared before them again he would be severely dealt|with.—Tomkins: Thank you sir, you will not see me here again.

MACHYNLLETH. JrMBLE SALK. — These jumble sales of Mrs Trevor, The Rectory, are becoming well known as splendid opportunitea of buying good articles of clothing, &c., at the lowest possible price. To- day's sale is held in the Vane Hall, when tea will be provided for a few pence. All who wish a bar- gain should come early. ARCHIDIACONAL CHORAL FESTIVAL.—An impor- tant meeting in connection with the above festival, which is to be held 111 Whit week, was held in the Christ Church vestry on Monday afternoon. The Venerable Archdeacon Thomas Williams, presided, and there were present the Revs W. Richards, Cemmaes; Titus Lewis, Towyn; W. L. Richards, Penstrowed; W. D. Koberts, Llanidloes; J. J. Davies, Llanystumdwy (general secretary of the festival); J. Davies, Curate of Towyn; D. T. Hughes, Machynlleth; Messrs M. W. Griffith, Mus. Bac., organist, Dolgelley; R Howell, organist, Machynlleth; T.Ci)werB Davies, Llanymavvddwy. The meeting opened with prayer by the Arch- deacon. It was decided to divide the Archdeaconry of Merioneth into two sections, the festival to be held at Criccieth and at Machynlleth. A letter was read from Mr Phillips, School House, Cemmaes, criticising the festival book, and some discussion took place on the pointing, &c. Mr Cilwern Davies spoke ac to the desirability of having the com- munion office included in the festival book. The Revs Titus Lewis and Roberts spoke on the subject. Mr Griffith, Dolgelley, said the objection to the pointing was childish, as they used Gregorian and Anglican Chants at Dolgelley, and found no difficulty. A warm discussion then took place on the merits and demerits of Gregorian and Anglican Chants. Mr Griffith, organist of Dolgelley, was unanimously elected conductor and trainer for the southern division of the Archdeaconry. Canon Trevor, the Rector, was unavoidably absent, having gone to South Wales to read a paper on Church and Dissent," at a large meeting of the Clergy. BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—WKDNESDAY. Present, Mr N. Bennett Owen (chairman) pre- siding, Messrs David Evans, Pennal, vice-chairman; Edward Hnghes, Llanwrin John Davies, Machyn- lleth; Wm. Evans, Scuborycoed Humphrey Jones, Towyn; John Davies, Darowen; John Owen and Meredith Jones, Towyn Mrs Lloyd, Machynlleth Messrs E. M. Jones and J. Watkins, Llanbrynmair J. Rowlands, Machynlleth Ellis Hughes, Cemmaes; Rd. Hughes, Penegoes Rd. Morgan, Uwshygarreg; with David Evans, clerk; David Morgan, acting clerk; and the Relieving Officers. VAGRANCY. The number of vagrants relieved during the month was 76, a decrease of 62 compared with the corresponding period last year. MASTER'S REPORT. The Master reported that the aunual Christmas dinner was given to the inmates on Monday, December 26th. Amongst those who attendad were Messrs N. Bennett Owen (the chairman), John Rowlands, John Davies, Dr. and Mrs Matthews, Mrs and Miss Evaus (Pentre), Misses Christopher (Man- chester), and Mr D. Morgan (acting clerk).—■ Presents for the inmates were received from Messrs Sackville Phelps, Richard Gillart, Edward Breeze, Henry Lewis, Richard Roberts, Thomas Breeze, John C. Williams, John M. Breeze, Dr. Evans, and Dr. Matthews. —Prayer meetings had been held during Christmas, when Messrs Hugh Davies, R. Owen, William Davies, Evan Jones, Lewis Lewis, W. J. Williams, Piercc Ellis, and Edward Morgan Jones took part, whilst Misses Lloyd and Williams acted as accompanists. AN OVERSIGHT. Mr John Watkins, Llanbrynmair, said he had a complaint to make against some of the officers of the Board. A young girl had been at the House and was desirous of obtaining a maintenance order against a young man. She was prepared with her witnesses, but through some negligence the period of twelve months had been allowed to elapse and no summons could be taken out.—The Assistant Clerk said the girl had called at the office, but it was too late then to issue a summons.—Mr John Jones, master of the House, was then called and said the girl had never asked him for permission to go to the Clerk's office, and he certainly had not refused her leave to go.—Mr Watkins said that the statement was made that the Master had refuted to let her go out. It was a serious matter for the ratepayers as it would cost them between £40 and £50. There was also a considerable feeling in the parish about the affair.— The Master again stated that he had done his utmost for the girl. It was when in the Clerk's office that he found out that a period of twelve months had elapsed. He was exceedingly sorry for the girl, and regretted if he had done anything out of place. The best course open to the Board now was to take the girl in and then the Guardians could take proceedings.—The Clerk supported this view of the case, and it was decided if the girl consented to admit her to the House and then take proceedings. POOR LAW CONFERENCE. A letter was read from the Secretary of the Central Poor Law Conference with a list of subjects to be discussed. The Board was requested to send a representative.—No action was taken. AN INSURANCE CASE. Mr R. Morgan brought forward the case of an inmate of the House, named Edward Morgan, late of Dolgan, and asked if he was insured, and the Master of the House replied in the affirmative. Being unable to pay the premiums Mrs Jones, the matron, had paid them up to date, and the policy had been changed to her name by agreement, she stipulating that he would be given a decent burial, aud that the sum left should be given to her.—Mr J. Watkin: Then the rest will be given to Mrs Jones.-The Master: Yes, if it is £ 1,000.—Jt was then decided, with the consent of the Master, to change the policy to the Clerk's name, the sum to b3 left to the Guardians. THE VACCINATION ACT. Several memorials were received from the Eng- lish Boards of Guardians, protesting against the above Act, and asking the Board to support them. —Mr J. Rowlands said a committee had considered the operation of the Act and had passed a resolution on the matter. He believed that that was sufficient. They could send that resolution.—Mr J. Watkin complained of the Act. lie would like to see the Act repealed and the old state of things reverted to.—Mr Meredith Jones proposed an amendment to the effect that no action be takeu.—Mr Edward Hughes seconded.—On a division five voted for the amendment, aud eight for the original motion. THE PUBLIC VACCINATORS AND THE NEW ACT. An adjourned meeting of the Guardians held 0:1 December 21st, and the report which was read, said that letters had been received from Dr Rowlands, Towyn, who refased to accept the terms for vaccination offered to him, and from Dr Edwards, Dr A. O. Davies, and Dr Matthews accepting the terms of the Guardians. The Clerk was directed bo fill up forms of particulars and to forward them to the Local Government Board for approval and to inform the Board that Dr Rowlands would not accept the terms offered him. The fees of the Vaccinatiou Officers were fixed, and Mr U Howell and Mr Morgan attended and accepted the terms. It was agreed to ask Mr William Jones whether he accepted the terms—Dr Rowlands wrote to the Council on December 22nd as follows :—" Nothing will induce me to go to Pennal and Aberdovey to vaccinate for the fees offered in your letter of to- day. The fact that the other Public Vaccinators have agreed to your terms did not alter the case, for they are already paid more than I am as Dis- trict Medical Officer. Anyone who cares to study the statistical tables in the abstract of accounts can see that some of the Medical Officers are paid double what I am in proportion to the extent and population of the respective districts. It was sug- gested at the meeting last week that Towyn dis- trict should be divided. If that is done it depends on the salary offered for the district apportioned to me if I accept the remuneration offered to the Public Vaccinators."—Dr Rowlands further wrote that siuce he had sent the above letter he had seen Mr John OweR, Penllyn, Towyn, who said that the Guardians were favourable either to divide the district or to advance his salary as Medical Officer. He believed that Aherdovey and Cwrt in area and population were equal to about one-third of the whole parish, consequently he should have about two-thirds. If the Guardians after re-arranging the district would allow his salary as District Medical Ulficor to remain as it was now, he would be willing for the present to undertake the duties of Public Vaccinator for the fees offered by the Guardians, and to go on with the whole district on condition that the new arrangements would be made with as little delay as possible.-lt was decided to leave matters as they are until a reply was received from the Local Government Board. RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL.—WEDNESDAY. Present: Mr Ed. Hughes presiding, Messrs E. M. Jones (vice-chairman), N. B. Oweu, John Watkin, David Evan", Ellis Evans, Wm. Evans, R. Morgan, John Davies, R. Hughes, with Mr David Evans (clerk), Mr D. Morgan (assistant clerk), Dr Mat- thews (medical officer), and Mr Williams (inspector and surveyor). JUBILEE BRIDGE ROAD. The Council decided to make application to the Montgomery County Council to take over the road from Mathrafan river to the new Jubilee Bridge over the Dovey river. A CLAIM FOR DAMAGES. In reference to the claim for JE2 10s, made by the Council, against Mr Daniel Howell the latter wrote to say that the claim was exorbitant and out of all proportion to the aci ual damage done by the sledge, which was the only damage which the Council onght to consider.-Tlie Chairman said that was the only damage the Council had con. sidered.—The letter further stated that a further payment of 25s together with the 24s already paid would amply cover any damage done.—The Council decided to adhere to their decision that J62 10s should be paid. ISSYGARREG. Mr D. Davies Williams, clerk to the Issygarreg Parish Council, wrote to sav that the members of the Parish Council had resolved to call the attention of the Rural Council to the sanitary state and the inadequate water supply to the village of Derwen- las, referred to in the report of the Medical Officer and ask the Council to attend to the matter.— Deferred for the attendance of the Guardian. PENJEGOE8 PARISH COUNCIL. At a meeting of the above Council it was resolved to ask the District Council to put up a bridge across the Crewi river near Bacheiddon, and another across the brook near Nantddu near the junction of the parishes of Penegoes and Trefeglwys.-The letter was referred to the Parish Council with a request that they should do the work. CWMCARNEDD ROAD. Llanbrynmair Parish Council made formal appli- cation to the Council to repair and maintain the road from Ddolfach by Cwmcarnedd to the parish of Llanerfyl.—The Council deferred consideration of the application for a fortnight. SURVEYOR'S REEPORT. The Surveyor (Mr Williams) reported that on the Tuesday morning following Christmas Day the water reservoir at Coelau mines burst and the flood that followed swept away the footbridge that crosses the brook on the old highway between Plas and Caelau. This road was not now repaired by the Council, and he asked for instructions in respect to the footbridge. A ford near Hafodwen on the Bont and Talerddig road had been damaged by a flood on December 27th. It would cost about X2 10s to repair.—The consideration of the first matter was deferred, and the Clerk was requested to apply to Sir Watkin for timber with which to repair the ford. INSPECTOR'S REPORT. Mr Williams (inspector of nuisances) reported that three cottages attached to the Congregational Chapel at Cwmllune Cemmaes required draining. A drain was also required to carry away the surface water from two cottages in the village of Cemmaes. These cottages had been condemned by the Medical Officer. Notice had been served on the owner of the houses, but it had not been complied with. Three cottages situate on the side of a district road at Llanbrynmair were in need of privy accommodation. Notices had been served on the owner, but they had not been complied with.- In respect to the houses at Cemmaes, the Inspector was instructed to make further enquiries. In the last case the Clerk was directed to write to the owner. MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT, Mr Matthews, the Medical Officer of Health, reported that the dwelling house occupied by Mr David Edwards at Eglwysfach was not in a satis- factory state. The occupants of this house had for years been suffering from sickness. He bad in- specteo the house many times, but he was not satisfied as to the cause of the sickness, and he suggested that drains should be constructed to carry off any stagnant water from the house and premises.—The Council adjourned the matter for the Inspector's report after an inspection by him and the Medical Officer.

LLANWRIN. SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION.—The triennal election of a member to the School Board for the parish of Llan Talyllyn took place last Thursday. For the past twelve years Mr Jeremiah Williams has served the village in the capacity of a member of the Board, but on this occasion he was opposed by Mr Hugh Jones, Foenfriog. The contest resulted in the return of Mr Jones who received 52 votes whilst Mr Williams received only 42; Mr Jones was accordingly declared elected. Mr David Evans was the returning officer.

CAERSWS. POLICE COURT.—MONDAY. Before Captain Adams. Messrs E. B. Proctor and Richard Jones. SCHOOL CASES.—John Davies, school attendance officer, charged John Lewis, Caersws, and R. Corfield, Clatter, Llanwnog, with not sending their children regularly to school.—The Bench adjourned the cases for one month to give the parents an opportunity of sending their children to school. GAME TRESPASS.—Three men, living at Llanidloes, named David Worthington, Richard Jones and J. Wilkes Jones were charged by Edward Williams, gamekeeper, Bontnewydd, Llandinam, with tres- passing on land in search of game.—Prosecutor, a gamekeeper in the employ of Mr C. J. Morris, said that on December the 24th he came across the defendants on land part of the Red House farm. With them were dogs and a ferret. The excuse they gave was that they were out for a walk, and refused to give their names. Witness followed them some distance and defendants, possibly to get rid of him, gave him names and addresses which on investigation proved to be ineorrect.-Tho Bench fined the defendants £1 and costs, in default one month's imprisonment with hard labour.

LLANDYSSIL. RUMMAGE SALE.—Through the exertions of Mr Morgan a rummage sale was held in the School. room on Saturday, and for two hours a brisk business was done. Among those who kindly helped to sell were the Misses Jones (Cefm Bryn. talch), Miss Pitman, Miss Morgan, Captain and Mrs Walters, the Misses Lewis, Miss Jones (Rhydy- ware), Messrs Edward and Charles Lewis, J. R. Morris, &c. The sale was in aid of parochial deficits. SUNDAY SCHOOL TEA. On Wednesday week, through the kindness of the Rector and Mrs Morgan, the Sunday scholars, their teachers, and their parents were kindly entertained to tea in the Schoolroom. After the tea, prizes were given to the scholars who had attended best. The choir children received valuable presents of wearing apparel, and every boy received a knife and every girl a doll. In addition to that Mrs R. E. Jones presented each child with a bag of sweets and nuts. The Rector distributed the Diocesan prize cards, and proposed a vote of thanks to Mr R. E. Jones and the Misses Jones for their presence. The Rector and Mrs Morgan also received a hearby vote of thanks for their generosity.

A SITUATION VACAKT Will always bring the Largest Number of Replies by Advertising in the COUNTY TIMES." If there is anything you Want Advertise in the "COUNTY TIMES." If you have anything you wish to Sell, Advertise in the COUNTY TIMES." THREE LINES FOR ONE SHILLING. IN Å LIJ DITIONS OF THE COUNTY rjIMES."

GUILSFIELD. — PARISH COUNCIL. A meeting of the Parish Council was held on Tuesday evening in the Schoolroom under the chairmanship of Mr John Jones (Varchoel). There were also preseat Capt D. H. Mytton, Messrs E. 1 Thomas, H. Thomas, T. Gittins, Robert Jones, E. Jones, E. Watkin, D. Davies, J. Hughes, D. Jones with the clerk, Mr T. Davies—With reference to in| the question of erecting a bridge at the Old Mill, cb Broniarth, the Chairman said the matter had been °r before the public for some years. Something should an be done and he thought the District Council would ce do the work if the inhabitants contributed towards the cost, by doing the carting.—Mr J. Hughes con- 1" sidered the road would be very muoh improved by the erection of a culvert, and the danger at the an brook would be much lessened. Nearly every flood co cut away some portion of the bank, and the brook be was gradually getting deeper.— Mr E. Watkin pI agreed with Mr Hughes as to the improvement cc that would be effected by the erection of a culvert. — Mr Hughes said the farmers of the neighbourhood ? £ guaranteed to do the carting when the matter was before the old Highway Board—The Chairman J replying to a Member, said the bridge was esti- mated by the Surveyor to cost not over z640 pro. a vided the carting was done.— Captain Mvtton ?] moved that the District Council be asked to instruct the Surveyor to prepare plans and estimates for building a culvert and improving P the road.—Mr D. Jones seconded. -Agreed. -A ° Member asked why the District Council should not be asked to construct a bridge, and Captain Mytton a said the answer the Council would probably get We -vill treat you as we treat other places, viz.' we will pay half the cost provided you pay the 1'1 other half.The Chairman said the next matter was the erection of a footbridge by the White i House, Broniarth. He understood that a certain person was going to enter an action against the i District Council to recover damages for injuries sustained through the want of a proper bridge. A 8 week last Monday this person slipped from the plank, which was covered with tbjp ice, into the v brook. He had hosts of witnesses l&ho had met with similar accidents.—Captain Mytton said the District Council were not responsible for the ice. ( The Chairman said if a child had to cross the plank it would certainly be drowned. He believed the man had a very good case.—Mr D. Jones did not think there was much danger.—Captain Mytton said the question was one for the District Council. —The Clerk said that the District Council had decided that all such complaints should be referred to the Surveyor.—Mr D. Jones moved that the Surveyor's attention be called to the matter, and that he be requested to report to the District Council.-The Chairman seconded.-Agreed.- Mr William Matthews who with Mr D. Jones was appointed to discuss the Charities Question with the Vicar and Churchwardens was absent and the report was not presented.—The Chairman at the conclusion of the business referred to the matter. At the last meeting, he said, the Council had decided to ask the Vicar to publish a list. of all those who received the charities. The Vicar was willing to give the list but not to publish it. The Chairman did net know whether it would be wise to publish the list or not. People were always grumbling; perhaps they had no room to grumble at all. False tales were going about the country about the wrong people getting the charities. He had a communication from some people the other day who, it was asserted, had received the charities, denying that they had ever received anything. Perhaps the Vicar might be inclined to publish the list in the Parish Magazine.—Capt Mytton That would be publishing the names.—The Chairman: Yes.-Capt Mytton said the Chairman would recollect that when he asked at the Board of Guardians to have the list printed he was told by the Clerk that it was not advisable to publish the list. The present case was of a kindred nature and he considered that Mr Hawkins was not justified in publishing the list. Were he to do so he would bring a hornet's nest about his ears. Notwithstanding the grumbling and growling in the parish, the charities had been dispensed fairly and regularly.—The Chairman The public have not seen the list.—Capt. Mytttm What has the public got to do with it? The Chairman Everything.- Captain Mytton said tho charities had been distributed. He asked how they were to get, at all the deserving poor now. No end of people had participated in the charities.—The Chairman said he raised the question not because he believed that the charities had not been dis- tributed fairly, but because he thonght, it would do away with the grumbling and growling to have the list published. He must admit, however, that there was some amount of secrecy about the distribution. —Captain Mvtton Let those who grumble and growl send in their letter to the Parish Council and state their case.- The Chairman Oh, they won't do that, the people are too much afraid of their own shadow.—Captain Mytton said the Council had appointed their representatives on the charities and it was for them to say if there was anything wrong. The Chairman They say the charities were distributed fairly.-Captain MyttoT, Then there is an end to it.—Mr D. Jones asked if the list could be read at the Parish Meeting.-No answer was given, and Mr Jones said the Committee had gone through the list carefully. Mr Matthews had written a report; unfortunately he was absent. The Chairman said he did not care whether the list was published or not. If it was it would look quite as well in the Parish Magazine as in anything else. —This was all the business. j

TEEFNANNEY. I CAPTAIN MYTTON'S SCHOOL.-The following are the school reports for the year ending Dec., 1898 Scripture (examined by the Rev H. Lewis, D.I.S.) This is a very efficient school, and great pains are evidently bestowed on the religious training of the children religions knowledge, excellent; discipline and tone, excellent; repetition, excellent; school as a whole, excellent. Drawing This subject is now examined with the other work by H.M.I. The full grant was recommended. Government: (inspected on April 4th by Mr T. H. Johnson, H.M.I., and again on Nov. 15th by Mr Short, H.M.I., report received Jan. 5th, 1899): A very large amount of highly creditable work has been accomplished during the year. The copy books and exercise books deserve special praise. A little more anima- tion in the reading, and sprightliness in the mental arithnietic of some of the classes are desirable. The infants are well cared for. The needlework is good. The school is in excellent order. The room is somewhat crowded a classroom would be a great boon. Attendance prizes: The following scholars have won attendance prizes. These prizes, con- sisting of handsome books, are given each year by Mrs Mytton to all scholars who make 400 or more attendances during the year. During 1898 the school was open 449 times :—Maggie James 416, Lily Jones 409, S E Payne 446, S A Francis 412, E E Davies 434, Margie Lewis 428, Mary Humphrbyg 424, Mary Drury 404, Martha E Benbow 413, Mary Payne 445, M E Jones 412, E A Griffiths 421, Mary Francis 421, Emma Jones 444, May Morris 427, May Davies 428, Edna Chester 417, Edith James 17, Simon Humphreys 419, John Haigh 443, William Morris 430, Lloyd Brown 421, J P Davies 421, S E Griffiths 407, M E James 413, William Payne 442, David T Jones 410, Roes James 420, Edwin Jones 407, John Jones (a) 438, Ed James 446, David Humphreys 421, T Haigh 444, Edward Sides 413, D T Francis 438, D T Benbow 403, Eslis Hum- phreys 411.

GARTHMYL. RENT AUDIT.—ffhe rent audit of Mrs Jones, Cefn Bryntalch, tock place at the Nag's Head Hotel on Thursday week. After the usual business the tenants sat to dinner, presided over by Mr W. Pritchard, the esteemed agent, the vice-chair being taken by Mr Evans, Lower Glyn. The Vice-Chair- man in proposing their Landlady's health said she was a good lady, but, not good enough. When he took his farm in 1870 he had the road rates allowed. Then turnpike gates were knocked off, aud put upon the farmers. Salt butter then was from 15d to 16ij per pound now it was 8d, wheat was 3( gt barley 25s., and oats 22s. what are the prices now ? He used to get Is 7d per pound for wool, now it was 7d. Mr Evans finished up by asking how farmers could live. The argument was taken np. Mrs Jones's health was drank with musical honours. Mr Humpreys gave Mr Pritoliard's h(-altil, which was drunk with musical honours, Mr Pritchard replying. The Vice-Chairman proposed Mr W. H. Pritchard's health who responded. Songs Were sang andja pleasant evening spent.

k MARVELLOUS GUINEA PARCEL ConttJininl1 I Pair White Witney Blankets, 7 Vf\! 2p««r\ lbB- wei^ht-z* lons Wlde- 1 White Under Blanket, whipped 1 both enda, 24 long by lj wide. nBW 1 Handsome Moaaic design Quilt, jraHrar fast colours, 3 long by 2i ma*. nHKil Pair Heavy Twill Sheets. 2* by X Ihrfilrlmv and S Cotton Pillow Cases, Futi nJLyLjbflbfl Btee, Buttoned Ends. E I Q H T oil QUALITY AND rtJOSIt Estab. over Stnt Carriage Paid on receipt 100 Yoar-s. of ".0.0. BROOKRELD'S, Muket Sq., STAFFORD,