The Glamorgan Gazette

aub DEATHS. BEVAN.—On Tuesday, at 37 Wyndham-street, Bridgend, Eliza, widow of the late George Bevan, in her 8Cth year. Public funeral 2.15 p m, to-day (Friday) for Nolton Churchyard. No flowers by request. 5519 ACKNOWLEDGMENT. WILLIAMS.-Misses Williams, 20 Adare Street, beg to thank the many friends for their kind sympathy, during the long illness, and death of their brother, Morris Williams. 5485

NEW COUNTY RATE BASIS. The publication of figures of the proposed new county rate basis has excited great in- terest throughout the Bridgend and Cow- bridge Union. This is not surprising when it is noted that if the new valuation be ,adopted the different parishes which comprise the Union will be contributing nearly 30 per cent, more towards the county rates than hitherto. Nearly every parish in the Union was represented at the meeting of the County Rate Committee on Monday, to protest against the new valuation. Unfortunately they were met in a spirit which, though no doubt perfectly legal, rendered their objec- tions little short of a farce. Only the figures of parishes as a whole had been supplied, and details of every description were pointedly re- fused. Alderman E. H. Davies must have had a twinkle in his eye in asking the differ- ent appellants on what grounds they objected. Without a knowledge of the assessment of different properties or classes of property, on what grounds could they object ? Every overseer was driven to some such parrot-cry as this: I object because I think the valua- tion is excessive." The overseers very pro- perly protested against this withholding of de- tails, and pointed out that they were unable to contest the new valuations property by property, whereupon they were met by the laconic reply, Then your objections won't take long." The attitude of the committee, which is curiously the first court of appeal against the assessment of their own valuers, may be thus summarised, "We have raised your valuation 30 per cent., and we will allow you to say you object, but you must not go fur- ther." Under the circumstances, the meet- ing of the committee was reduced to a gro- tesque absurdity. The only effectual way of objecting to a valuation would be by taking individual properties and the committee acted altogether unfairly in keeping back the only possible weapon for fighting. We understand that some of the smaller parishes are likely to appeal to Quarter Sessions, and where there are only a few properties in a parish, this will be practicable, but such im- portant parishes at Cwmdu, Llangeinor, Llandyfodwg, %nd Bridgend are quite out of court. The request of the conference at Bridgend on Saturday that the remainder of the Unions of the county might be re-valued, met with scant courtesy at the hands of the Com- mittee. The Chairman seemed to hold the view that the rest of the county was valued up to the hilt, and that the Bridgend Union was merely being levelled up to the remain- der. If such were the case, the Union would, instead of having cause to complain, be thankful for the mercy of being left alone for so long. But, with all due respect to Alder- man Davies, whose ability as a valuer will not be questioned1, his remarks on the subject were by no means convincing. It is many years since any considerable proportion of the county was re-valued by professional valuers, and meantime developments are constantly taking place and properties are becoming en- hanced in value. No doubt overseers have re-valued large portions of the county, but there is, as a rule, a great difference between their valuations and those of professional as- sessors. Overseers and the Union Assessment Committee will therefore be well advised to keep pegging away at the County Commit- tee, the personnel of which may be materially altered after the elections. The important question which remains is whether the new county basis should be adopted for poor law and district purposes. The Union Assessment Committee have the right to adopt the valuation, and if they refuse, machinery is provided to compel them to do so. The new Board of Guardians can, if they choose, appoint those members on the committee who undertake to accept the new valuation, and it was elicited at Monday's meeting that any parish can appeal to Quarter Sessions to compel the Committee to accept it. There are, therefore, distinct courses open to secure the adoption of the new basis, and the desirability of calling upon or, if necessary, seeking to compel the committee to adopt it, is a subject of very considerable importance. The Chairman of the Bridgend Urban Council advocated its adoption on the ground that it would increase the borrowing power of the local authority. This may probably be of advantage to Bridg- end, which has almost reached the limit of its borrowing powers and may find it neces- sary to find capital in connection with its electrical enterprise; but some districts may equally desire to keep borrowing power as low- as possible. We would advocate the adoption of-the new basis on the broader ground that every parish would contribute to the poor rate on an absolutely equal basis. If the new county basis is taken as being as nearly as possible correct. some parishes are contri- buting much more than their share to the poor rate, while the burdens of others are correspondingly lightened. In Tythegston Higher, for instance, the Union valuation is jEl,743 higher than the county, while in Pen- coed it is £ 3,190 lower. There are other anomalies almost equally great, which need to be adjusted either by adopting the new basis or by a re-valuation of the parishes in which the worst disparities are shown. But there is another argument which will appeal with even greater force to many. From re- marks which fell from Alderman E. H. Davies and Mr Franklen, it would appear that the increased valuation is largely due to the in- creased value of railways. If this be so, these undertakings are not contributing their share towards Union and district rates, and their proper burdens are being borne by the smaller ratepayers. For this reason alone, it is advisable, we think, that the new valua- tion be adopted.

2nd VOL. BATT. WELSH REGIMENT. BRIDGEND DETACHMENT. Orders for Week Ending Saturday, Mar. 9. 1.—Company and Recruit Training every Monday until the end of present month. Fall in at 7.30 p.m.; plain clothes. 2.—Musketry Aiming Drill Instruction, Semaphore Signalling, Scout Training, and Morris-Tube Practice every Friday at 7.30; plain clothes. It is hoped that all ranks will make special efforts to attend these important parades. 3.-Band Practice will in future take place every Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. H. J. RANDALL, Captain, GommMttMng Detachment.

To Avertisers.—Advertisers who send us small advertisements that come under the various headings of our prepaid scale, which appears on the 4th page, are requested to kindly send remittance with order.

I LUCA L N E W S. The Celebrated Lipton's Teas and Provi- sions may be had of the Sole Agent for Bnc7 > end.-T. Woodward, near The Bridge. TiE BRIDGEND SHOP ASSISTANTS' DANCE was to have been held at the Drill-hall last Wed- nesday, but owing to the death of Mr. Jones (the hall caretaker), it was postponed until Wednesday, March 6th, 1907. 5504 THE PROPERTY MARKET.—Mr. Michael Davies, Bridgend, offered, on Monday even- ing, No. 9 Talbot-street, Maesteg. The sale was held at the Victoria Hotel, Maesteg. Ihe purchaser was Mr. Evan Williams, Commer- cial-street, Maesteg, for jE810, including the fixtures. The unexpired term is 94 yeais, and the ground rent £10. Mr. R. Scale, so- licitor, acted for the vendors. DEATH OF MR. C. E. PERRY.—We regret to announce the death, which occurred at Aber- avon on Sunday, of Mr. Charles Edgington Perry, formerly in business in Dunraven- place. Bridgend, as a baker and confectioner. Mr. Perry, who was over seventy years of age, was a prominent Freemason and was well known in Masonic circles rAroughout South Wales. The funeral took place on Wednes- day afternoon, the interment being made in Nolton Churchyard. SACRED MUSICAL SERVICE.—A most success- ful musical service (the first of a series) was held at the Hope English Baptist Chapel on Sunday evening last, in aid of the choir, funds. Solos were ably rendered by Miss Annie Edwards, Mr. George Simmonds, and Mr. J. 1. Clement, and recitations were given by Miss Alum and Miss Williams, which were much appreciated. The choir also rendered in effective style the anthem Ye earthly Choirs" (L. Meadows White). Mr. W. Gar- field Cole presided at the organ. A silver collection was taken at the close. WESLEY GUILD.-On Wednesday the Wesley Guild held the second Missionary Parlia- ment" of the Session. The evening's discus- sions ranged chiefly around the topic of medi- cal and educational work considered in rela- tion to the purely evangelistic efforts of the foreign missionary; and from the facts which emerged in debate, it was made clear that this additional work is of the greatest value in preparing the native mind for the recep- tion of the Gospel. It was agreed to be necessary that no trouble and expense should be spared in fitting the missionary for his calling. LICENSED VICTUALLERS.—A committee meet- ing of the Bridgend and District Licensed Victuallers' Association was held at the Queen's Head, Bridgend, on Wednesday, Mr. T. Jones presiding over a good attendance. The following delegates were appointed to attend the meeting of the Glamorgan Amal- gamated Licensed Victuallers' Association Messrs. T. Jones (president), M. Stradling, and T. E. Hopkins. The secretary (Mr. G. Stradling) was appointed a delegate to the meeting of the whole of the Associations of No. 12 District, to appoint representatives on the executive of the National Defence League. It was decided to draw cheques for capitation fees to the National Defence League and to the Glamorgan Amalgamated L.V. Associa tion. BRIDGEND GAS AND WATER COMPANY.—The annual general meeting of this Company was held at the Company's Office on Monday, Mr. T. G. Smith (chairman of the directors) pre- siding. Other directors present were Mr. Oliver Sheppard and Mr. Samuel Llewellyn. The report of the directors, as published, was adopted, on the proposal of the Chairman, seconded by Mr. Oliver Sheppdrd. Dividends at the rate of 5 per cent. per annum on the preference shares and 3 per cent. on the or- dinary shares were declared, the latter sum making a dividend of 3 per cent. for the year, as compared with 4 per cent. in the previous year. Mr. W. J. Lewis and Mr. A. P. James, the retiring directors, were re- elected, and Mr. W. M. Richards was re-ap- pointed auditor, his remuneration being fixed at C4 4s. BRIDGEND PARLIAMENT.—The Speaker, Mr. Michael Davies, took the chair at 8 p.m., on Tuesday, about 20 members being present. The House went into committee on the Aboli- tion of the House of Lords Bill. Mr. C. E. Lloyd moved the adoption of clause 1, which was seconded by Mr. John Lewis. Mr. H. J. Randall moved that the House report pro- gress, which was seconded by Mr. W. McGaul. The following hon. members took part in the debate:—Messrs. John Lewis, G. L. Lafferty, C. E. Lloyd, W. Jenkins, and Dan Jenkins. On a division being taken, the motion to re- port progress was defeated. After a consul- tation between the Leaders of the Opposition and the Government, it was arranged that a private member of the Opposition should in- troduce a measure at the next sitting for the purpose of amending the constitution of the House of Lords, and for determining the re- lations between the two Houses of Parlia- ment. DEATH OF MRS. BEVAN.—We regret to an- nounce the death of an old inhabitant of the town in the person of Mrs. Elizabeth Bevan, widow of the late Mr. George Bevan, for many years foreman mason on the Dunraven Estate, which sad event occurred on Tuesday morning at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. Rhys Williams, Wyndham-street, with whom the deceased had resided for some years. Mrs. Bevan, who was in her eightieth year, had been ill for five weeks, suffering from a severe attack of bronchitis, and, des- pite all medical skill and the care of her friends, she passed away as stated. She was the daughter of the Rev. Owen Michael, some time pastor of Ruhamah Baptist Chapel, Bridgend, and a well known Welsh liter ateur. Her husband pre-deceased her by 29 years. Mrs. Bevan had brought up a large family, most of whom reside in Bridgend they in- clude Mr. George Bevan, a member of the Urban District Council, and Mr. William Bevan. She was highly esteemed by a large circle of friends, by whom great sympathy has been shown to the bereaved family. The funeral will take place to-day (Friday). SHOOTING.—A most exciting shooting com- petition took place at the Y.M.C.A. rooms on Tuesday night between the local club and the shop assistants. The shop assistants man- aged to hold their own aimost to the end, to- wards which the excitement became very in- tense. When the two last men started fir- ing, the scoring was even, and it looked as if the result would be a draw. The Y.M.C.A. man, however, just managed to beat his op- ponent by one point, thus saving the record of the club. Scores :-Y.M.C.A.: W. Jen- kins, 27; E. J. Thomas. 31; D. R. Phillips, 26; H. Davies, 27; B. Warner, 24; W. Hunter, 27; F. G. Harris, 27; J. Atkins, 30; A. L. Ward, 28; R. Watts. 29; F. T. Arnold, 29 H. Railton, 29 total, 334. Shop Assist- ants H. B. Gladwin, 26: F. Jones, 28; D. Leyshon, 27; T. Morton, 30; F. Howells, 27; A. Drake, 26; W. P. Corns. 28: G. Morgan, 29; C. Davies, 28; A. G. Powell, 30: T. G. Llewellyn, 28; D. Gregory, 28; total, 333. Y.M.C.A.-The Rev. Owen Jones, Rector of Llansannor, delivered an edifying and in- teresting lecture upon his recent visit to the Holy Land, in the rooms of the above Asso- ciation on Monday evening. There was a good attendance. The lecturer, who was in- troduced by the Chairman, lVIr. W. A. Wil- liams, of Tremains, interested his audience from the start to the end. He began by re- minding them that one of the reasons why Palestine had been selected as the scene of God's revelation to the world was the fact that it was situated practically in the centre of the world, and in addition, contained in itself representative characteristics of the whole world. This fact seemed symbolical of the world-wide truths and blessings which were in the first instance made known to its chosen inhabitants, and through them des- tined to spread over the whole world. The home life of the people, the character and habits of the shepherds, and the scenes of the Saviour's child life and of His manhood were strikingly told by the lecturer, and aptly illustrated bv views. These were clear and effective. The lantern was manipulated by Mr. J. Davies, of Coychurch-road, with his usual skill. SALE OF TREGROES PROPERTY.—Messrs. Stephenson and Alexander offered at the Dunraven Hotel, Bridgend, on Saturday afternoon the freehold residential estate at Coychurch known as Tregroes, adjoining the village of Pencoed, and five miles from Bridg- end. The property comprised the commodi- ous residence, stabling, outbuildings, etc., kitchen and ornamental gardens and grounds, pasture land, plantations, etc., com- prising nearly 41 acres. The tithe rent- oharge was 95 Is. lid., land tax jEl 12s. 3d., and a chief rent of 4s. Mr. R. Bevan, of the Lee Hotel, Fenrhiwceiber, became the pur- chaser at £ 5,000. The Maxchant Cottages, two cottages with gardens and small pieces of land, containing nearly three acres, subject to Is. lOld. each land tax, were sold for JE560 to Mr. J. D. Hughes, Pencoed. A pasture field of la. Or. lp., with range of dog kennels, tithe 3s. 2d., was knocked down at JE150 to Mr. Sydney Charles, Pencoed. Ty Marchant, a pasture field containing la. lr. 21p., tithe Is. lid., fronting on main road, was pur- chased by Mr. Hopkins, Pencoed, for £145. The freehold farm and grist mill called Melin or Velin Groes, containing 50t acres of pas- ture land, with farmhouse, buildings, etc., let for 21 years from 1903, at a rental of JE75 per annum, tithe £2 17s. 5d., land tax 15s. Id., was secured by Mr. T. Griffiths, M.A., Cym- mer, Porth, for £ 2,250. With this lot was included a pasture field known as Ynys, con- taining nearly 3+ acres. A pasture field called The Plantation, containing 2a. Or. 2p., fell to the bid of Mr. W. H. Pickering, Pen- coed, at £ 275. A pasture field called Cae- fallt, containing nine acres (tithe 13s. Id.), and a pasture adjoining, of nearly If acres, were sold to Mr. Chatterton, Pencoed, for £660. The solicitors for the vendors were Messrs. Fussell and Co., Bristol. INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL CONCERT. The Bridgend Town-hall was well filled on Wednesday evening on the occasion of the second annual concert by past and present pupils of the Intermediate School, the pro- ceeds of which will be devoted to augmenting the school library funds. The success which attended last year's concert was fully main- tained; the programme presented was full of interest and variety, and there was no mis- taking the manifest enjoyment of the audi- ence. The concert was given a good opening by Mr. Willie Rees, of Blaengarw, a former scholar, who played a well-executed piano- forte solo. Afterwards Miss Lily John gave a dramatic rendering of Y Diluw," and the piece de resistance" consisting of scenes from The School for Scandal" was then en- tered upon. The cast was entirely made up by present pupils of the school, who gave a very creditable interpretation of the play, though the performance was somewhat marred by the absence of Master Trevor Hughes from his part of "Joseph Surface." His place was filled at short notice by Master Dan Gregory, of Ogmore Vale, who made a praiseworthy and, on the whole, successful attempt to afford an intelligent interpreta- tion of the part. Master Howard L. Rhys (Bridgend) appeared in the role of "Charles Surface" to the evident satisfaction of the audience; as "Lady Teagle" Miss Hilda Price (Pontycymmer) was particularly successful Master Cuthbert James (Bridgend) was re- sponsible for an excellent impersonation of "Sir Peter Teagle," and the role of "Sir Oliver Surface" was satisfactorily taken by Master D. J. Gregory. Other characters were intelligently represented as follows:- "Careless," Master William Watkins; "Rowley," Master H. Freedman; "Moses," Master George J. Kibblewhite; "Trip," Mas- ter Ithiel Thomas; "Sir Harry Bumper," Master George H. Sparkes. Miscellaneous items followed the performance, the first con- sisting of a pretty action song, Contrary Mary," by Misses Doris Davies, Gertie Davies, Lily John, Gwen Loufrhor, Kate Owen, and May Singer. Mr. Willie Rees played the pianoforte solo, Rondo Alla Capriccio" with delightful finish. Mr. Charles Hill, an "old boy," was entirely successful in his violin solo Berceuse" (Goddard), and he also gave a spirited rendering of "The Rocking Horse" (Papilla). Miss Hilda Price's rendering of "Four little curly-headed coons" was one of the chief hits" of the evening. Master Thomas J. Morgan gave "The Veteran's Song," and received a well deserved encore. Mr. Willie Rees accompanied the soloists in a sympathetic manner. DEATH OF AN OLD EMPLOYEE. PAINFUL CIRCUMSTANCES. It is with deep regret that we have to record the death, under circumstances of the most painful character, of Mr. Thomas Davies, an old employee at the printing offices of the Glamorgan Gazette." Deceased was usually in a robust state of general health, but it had been noticed during the past twelve months that he was growing feeble in intellect, and recently he had performed with difficulty duties which at one time he carried out with ease. He had also at times com- plained of pains in the head. On Saturday last, when he ceased work at one o'clock as usual, he appeared to be in his usual health, and on Sunday he appears to have remained in bed until quarter to six in the evening, when he came downstairs to light his pipe. His wife and daughter left soon afterwards for chapel, and on Mrs. Davies's return about half-past eight she was shocked to find her husband had committed suicide. Mr. Davies had been employed at the Gazette" offices for the lung period of 25 years, and during the past ven years had been foreman of the news department. Formerly he was in business with a brother at Lam- peter. Somewhat reserved in manner, he was always extremely courteous and regular and punctual in his duties. His striking figure has been sorely missed from its custom- ary place, and his sad and tragic death is deeply deplored by everyone associated with him in his daily work. THE INQUEST. The inquest was held on Tuesday by Mr. Howell Cuthbertson and a jury of which Mr. Caleb Scott was foreman. Mrs. Ruth Davies, the widow, stated that deceased had recently complained of pains in his head, and was delirious all Saturday night, repeatedly getting in and out of bed. He said he could see his little daughter, who died five years ago, beckoning him to come across the river, but he could see a big wave and was afraid to take the plunge. He oc- casionally took too much, and had been drinking a little on Saturday night. On Sunday he remained in bed all day, as was his custom on Sundays, and only came down- stairs about quarter to six to light his pipe. She went to chapel at six o'clock, leaving him alone in the house. She returned about half- past eight, when she had some writing to do, and called upstairs to ask her husband the English word for Rhagfyr (December). Get- ting no reply, she went upstairs and saw him hanging above the landing. She was very much frightened, and ran out of the house to fetch some neighbours. She was deoeased's third wife. He was always very quiet, but was more quiet than usual on Sunday. Inspector Benjamin Evans said deceased was hanging by a rope attached to an iron bar which bad been placed across a ventila- tor. The body was cut down by a neigh- bour. Dr. E. M. Spencer attributed death to strangulation. The Coroner: There is no doubt his mind was unhinged in some shape or form. In reply to the Coroner. r3r. Spencer said deceased would be suffering from delirium tremens when he was talking on Saturday night. Mrs. Davies, re-called, stated in reply to the foreman, that there had not been any un- pleasantness between her and her husband. She had noticed deceased had been queer in 'his head for twelve months, and he had been worse during the last three months, especially during the few weeks preceding his death. The jury returned a verdict of Suicide whilst of unsound mind. THE FUNERAL. The funeral took place on Wednesday after- noon, the interment being made in Newcastle Churchyard. The Vicar (Rev. David Phillips) officiated. Deceased was borne to the grave by his late comrades and friends. Floral tributes were sent by Mr. and Mrs. R. H. Dyer and the staff of the Glamorgan Gazette."

Teams for To-morrow. KENFIG HILL v. BETTWS UNITED. At Kenfig Hill. Kenfig Hill: Back, Tom Williams; three- quarters, J. Evans, H. Richards, E. Leyshon, and W. E. Williams; half-backs, W. J. Cooke and T. Davies; forwards, W. Williams (capt), I. J. Stubbs, J. MacKenzie, L. Danter, J. Davies, W. E. Jones, D. Evans, and J. Bevan. Bettws: Back, T. McCormick; threequar- ters, E. Blosse (capt.), B. Thomas, T. Spear- man, and A. Davies; half-backs, J. Thomas and D. Watkins; forwards (selected from) R. Hitchings, W. M. Richards, A. Burgess. J. Williams, W. Watts, W. Williams, T. Wil- liams, J. Griffiths, H. Williams, and E. Price. PONTYCYMMER v. OGMORE VALE. At Pontycymmer. Pontycymmer: Back, D. J. Richards; threequarters, M. Lloyd, W. Jenkins, B. Feiven, and W. J. Lewis; half-backs, R. Thomas (capt^ and Jess Griffiths; forwards, R. Griffiths, E. Lewis, J. Brown. A. Tiley, J. McCarthy, R. Tilley, T. Stolley, J. Murray and T. Partridge. I

BRIDGEND DISTRICT COUNCIL. THE NEW COUNTY KATE BASIS. Mr. J. G. Jenkins, J.P., presided at a meeting of Bridgend District Council on Tuesday evening, other members present being Messrs. E. Preeoe, junr., H. Abbott, M. Stradling, W. Edwards, W. Jones, G. Harris, and R. C. Griffiths. SYMPATHY. A vote of condolence was passed with Mr. George Bevan on the death ur his mother, all the members standing. COUNTY a OOTPATHS. Mr. T. Mansel Franklen, clerk to the County Council, wrote in reply to a letter from the clerk asking the County Council to undertake the repair and maintenance of all footpaths alongside county roads in the urban district, as follows —" Some similar claims have been made by other District Councils, and the County Council has uniformly repu- diated the liability to maintain footpaths by the sides of county roads in the general way in which you claim they are liable. There are certain footpaths belonging to them made by themselves or their predecessors which they maintain, and if any of these are out of order, the complaints of your District Counr- cil would be immediately attended to. If. therefore, you wish any inquiry made as to any particular footpath that is out of order. you must please give particulars in order that it may be known whether it is a county foot- path or not." Mr. Preece The same old tale. The Chairman: The footpath we had in mind was Cowbridge-road. Mr. Preece: They repair the others. Mr. Griffiths said the wording of Mr. Franklen's letter guarded the County Council, but he contended the position taken up was not the law, and he was supported in that contention by their clerk (Alderman T. J. Hughes) after he had gone into the matter and ascertained the facts. He moved that particulars relating to Cowbridge-road foot- path be obtained and furnished. Mr. Harris seconded, and the motion was carried. NEW COUNTY VALUATION. Mr. Griffiths reported that he attended the meeting of the County Rate Assessment Com- mittee at Bridgend on Monday, and made formal objection to the new county rate basis on behalf of Bridgend. Particulars of the re-valuation were asked for, and refused; but the Chairman made a statement that they would be supplied if the Union adopted the present valuation as their own basis. At present the county basis was entirely differ- ent to that of the Union. Mr. Preece said he failed to see what fur- ther action they could take in the matter at present. The Chairman was of opinion that the new valuation should be adopted in the Union, and he believed it would be of considerable advantage to the town. There was the ques- tion of borrowing powers, for instance. They had nearly reached the end of their tether, and certain expenditure might be required for developing the electrical enterprise. If this valuation were adopted they could go on, but if not they would find it impossible to borrow money. lie expressed his thanks to the Gazette" for preparing the lists of in- teresting figures showing the new and old basis for the county and the new basis com- pared with the Union valuation. He had worked out a few figures which might be of interest, and from which he gathered that the adoption of the new basis would mean a reduction of 3d. to 4d. in the E. The differ- ence between the new and old county valua- tions amounted to £100,000, and if the county rate were the same in all the parishes as it was in Bridgend—14.8d. in the £-the whole Union would have to pay an increased sum of 14.8d. X 100,000, i.e., jE6,000 for the half year. And unless the new valuation were adopted by the Union, the same proper- ties would have to bear the increased contri- bution on the old valuation. In Bridgend, the new valuation represented an increase of £ 4,800. A rate of 14.8d. per £ on £ 4,800 would amount to £ 296 for the half-year. This increase would be equal to, say, one- eighth of the old assessment. That is to say, a rate of 2s. 6d. in the £ on the old valu- ation. viz., £ 32.730 will produce about the same amount as a rate of 2s. 2td. on the pro- posed new value of £ 37,508. 2 Therefore he would like to press upon the Council the de- sirability of urging the acceptance of the new valuation, as it would mean a reduction in the town rate on most of the properties of about one-eighth, or a saving of about 3d. in the £ on the urban rate alone. Mr. Abbott moved that the overseers be re- quested to approach the Union Assessment Committee on the matter, and thanked the Chairman for the statistics he had supplied. Mr. Edwards seconded.—Carried. ARTILLERY DRILL HALL. The Surveyor reported that the drains of this hall had been found to be defective, and he had sent a preliminary notice to Captain T. Edwards, who replied that the drains were laid by the Council not Ions ago, and he con- sidered they should remedy the defects. The Chairman said the drains were laid 18 months or two years ago, and a good many people who laid drains at that time had since been required to attend to them. Mr. Preece There have undoubtedly been a lot of hardships in connection with this business, but we cannot treat these people preferentially. If their drains are out of order, they must put them right. It was decided to take the next step. Mr. T. M. Cule, of Church-road, wrote stat- ing that his drains were laid by the Coun- cil two years ago, at a cost of £12, and while he was as anxious as the Council that they should be put in order now, he thought the Council should carry out the work at their own expense.—It was resolved to serve the usual notice. GAS COMPANY AND ROADS. The Surveyor reported that the attention of the Gas and Water Co. had been drawn to the defective state in which the road surface had been left by their men at various places in the district. Mr. Preece moved that the Council put the roads in order themselves, and charge the Company with the cost in cases where the surveyor found they had not been properly replaced. Mr. Harris seconded, and pointed out that there were frequently hollows when the road settled down. and they needed re-levelling. The motion was carried. ELECTRICIAN'S REPORT. The Electrician (Mr. T. Thomas) presented his report for the quarter ended December 31st, which showed that the number of units used for private lighting was 18,513, as com- pared with 16,990 in the corresponding quar- ter of the previous year, and for public lighting 18,396, as against 20,217 in 1905. There had been an increase in the number of units used for power, and a decrease in those for heating. The total revenue showed an increase of E15 10s. Mr. Harris remarked that it was very satis- factory that while there had been an increase in private lighting, there had been a decrease in public lighting. FIRE BRIGADE. The Secretary of the Fire Brigade (Mr. Benjamin Thomas) wrote stating that the bri- gade having been requisitioned to attend a fire at Pitcot Farm, St. Bride's Major, and having had expenses guaranteed, took the manual to the fire. He presented an ac- count amounting to £ 16 3is. 6d., which he asked to be forwarded to Mr. Jenkins, the occupier of the farm. Mr. Stradling said he was pleased to tell the members that the brigade turned out smartly and stuck to their work, and Mr. Jenkins expressed himself as pleased with what they did in preventing the flames from spreading. If another rick had caught fire, probably the house would have gone. OTHER MATTERS. Mr. A. Rideout wrote agreeing to pay a nominal rent of Is. per annum, and under- taking to remove the shed at seven days' no- tice on an encroachment in a back lane be- tween Cowbridge and Coychurch Roads. It was decided to deal with the questions of public conveniences at the next meeting of the Works Committee. Messrs. Edwards and Harris were nomin- ated as the Council's representatives on the Bridgend Group of School managers. POWER COMPANY'S POSITION. Mr. Chamen, general manager of the South Wales Electrical Power Company, wrote regretting that the Council oould not see their way to remit rates on the power sta- tion, and stating that the Council must know that they were hastening the time when the station must be closed down, as it was only in mid-winter that the income of the station covered the expenditure. Mr W. E. R. Allen, clerk to the Committee of Visitors of the Glamorgan County Asylums, wrote that he had placed the communication from the Council dealing with the supply of electric power to the Asvlums before the com- mittee, who desired further time to considier the question of the supply of electric power to the asylums before comferring with the Council, and they were in the meantime con- sidering the question of laying down a gener- ating plant of their own. having engaged the sey-ices of an expert to advise them. .j Council went into committee to con- siaei a letter from Mr. Ohamen regarding suggested purchase of the Power Stationi. The price which has been asked for the sta- tion is. we understand, £ 14.000.

THE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOfc. -P- HEADMASTER AND THE CENTRAL WELSH BOARD. GWYL DEWI SANT: DR. THOMAS DEPRECATES FUSS." The monthly meeting of the Governors of the Bridgend Intermediate School were held on Monday, there being present Mr. Michae' Davies, F.A.I, (presiding), Revs. W. A, Edwards, Llangan; Stephen Jones, Treos; -iv j Wilhams, Blaengarw, and R. Johns, londu; Messrs. John Howells, Maesteg, and J. G. Jenkins, J.P., Bridgend; Dr. D. J. Thomas. Nantymoel; with the headmaster (Mr. John Rankin, B.A.) and the clerk (Rev. H. Eynon Lewis). TEMPORARY BUILDING. The Headmaster, in reply to the Chairman, stated that the work of erecting a temporary building had been commenced. The con- tractor was Mr. Philip Gayiard. The Chairman: When has the building to be completed? The Headmaster I understand it will be ready by the end of March. SALARY. The Finance Committee had considered an application from Mr. D. Idloes Jones, assist- ant master, for an increase of salary, and they recommended the governors to grant an increase of tiO per annum. The Clerk stated that Mr. Jones had been receiving jE120 per annum. On the motion of the Rev. R. Johns, the recommendation was adopted. A similar application from Miss Brewris was also considered, but the clerk was directed to reply that as the school was now in a state of transition, her application would be con- sidered some time in the future. C.W.B. EXAMINATIONS. A letter was read from the Board of Edu- cation suggesting that in order to avoid any risk of a reduction in the Treasury grant, a larger number of pupils should be presented for the Central Welsh Board annual examina- tions next year. The Headmaster stated that he had had previous correspondence with the Central Welsh Board on this subject, and he had pointed out that on the occasion referred to the great majority of the scholars in the school were raw recruits who had been in at- tendance about a year or lt-.ss, and who were quite unfit for presentation. He had pre- sented for the Board's examinations practic- ally every scholar who had been in the school for three years, and fifty per cent. of those who had attended barely two years. Of course, any percentage could be presented, and the only point to consider was whether it was desirable to present scholars not thoroughly equipped. Replying to Mr. John Howells, the Head- master stated that he understood the Central Welsh Board were quite satisfied with his ex- planation on the previous occasion that this matter had been raised. Mr. Jenkins said the teachers at the Bridg- end School had had to work under difficulties owing to inadequate accommodation. Rev. W. A. Williams said it was admitted that a three years' course was necessary to prepare for the C.W. Board examinations. It was useless presenting pupils who had not been in school a sufficient time to prepare. On the motion of the Rev. W. A. Edwards, the clerk was directed to write the Board of Education requesting the Board to indicate what proportion of pupils should be presented for the examinations and it was also agreed to forward the headmaster's re- port. GYMNASIUM. The Clerk said he had received a communi- cation from Mr. J. 1. D. Nicholl asking that a troupe of Yeomanry might use the gymna- sium. The governors granted a similar l-e- quest last year, and he had informed Mr. Nicholl that they might have the use of the gymnasium on the same terms as last year. The Clerk's action was confirmed. CLERICAL INADVERTENCE. Dr. James, chief education official, wrote that he had considered a complaint from the governors with respect to a delay in supply- ing various goods to the school, which the headmaster had requisitioned. He regretted the delay, which was due to clerical inadver- tence, and he assured the governors that such was not likely to occur again. (Hear, hear.) The Clerk: It is admitted the governors had some ground for complaint. EVENING CLASSES. Further correspondence was read from the clerk to the County Council (Mr. Mansel Franklen) as to payment of expenses in con- nection with the evening classes held at the school. The Governors had decided that jE22 10s. be claimed, and the Education Commit- tee had instructed jMr. Franklen to point out that Bridgend governors had been paid at the same rate as the governors of other county schools, and if they expected more than was paid elsewhere, the Committee would be forced to take the excess from the grants made by them to the school, the County Council being entitled to the use of the room on the bare cost of lighting, clean- ing. etc.. which should not be greater in Bridgend than elsewhere. The Clerk said the commitee which dealt with this matter considered the claim for- warded quite fair and reasonable. jElO was charged for the caretaker's work. the whole cost of electricity, amounting to £ 9, and the remainder was in respect of coal, etc. The matter was deferred. GWYL DEWI SANT. A discussion took place, chiefly in the ver- nacular. with regard to St. David's Day cele- brations. Rev. W. A. Williams moved that a holiday be granted the scholars on Friday. The Yspryd Cymreig," he said, was spreading, and the Governors should do lheir part in fostering it. Other places were making every effort to stir up a patriotic feeling. Perhaps the headmaster would be able to de- liver a lecture to the scholars. Mr." John Howells strongly supported the proposal, and suggested that the headmaster should get daffodils or leeks for all the scholars. (Laughter.) Dr. Thomas was afraid too much was being done in these days in making a fuss about St. David's Day. He could not see what St. David's Day had to do with the education of the young. (Laughter.) They had enough holidays at Easter, Midsummer, and Christ- mas, and he did not see why the work of the school should be interfered with in this way. If they commenced with St. David's Day, they would have to introduce St. George's, St. Patrick's, and all the other Saint's days on the calendar. (Laughter.) He proposed that there should be no holiday. The Chairman That's a direct negative. Dr. Thomas: You can call it what you like. (Laughter.) On the motion being put. it was carried, Dr. Thomas being the only dissentient. The Chairman In the minority, Doctor! Dr. Thomas: Yes. I must be in the minor- ity when sentiment comes in. On the suggestion of Mr. Howells, a resolu- tion was passed congratulating Mr. O. M. Edwards and Mr. A. T. Davies on their ap- pointments of chief officials of the new Welsh Education Department.

Wyndham Dispute Settled. We understand that the differences at the Wyndham Colliery were settled yesterday, and that the men return to work next Mon- day.