The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

BLAENAU FESTINIOG. Notices of meeti) gs andothtr information may be suit to our represserative, Mr Llew Davies, 36a. Snow IDD street, Por'madcc. EAiICP.ATION.-MrTys, ii Robert', mm ger of the Wry-gats Quarry, will sail for Aus'rniia.; n Monday. METROPOLITAN BANK —Mr J. Parry Jones, J.P., conc'ud-d his lorg term of service und r this Bank oa Tuesday. He is succeeded as manager by Mr H. Ariander Hughes. CALL.—The members of the Hyfrydfa Independ- ent Chapel have decided unanimously to give a call to ih-ir pastorate to the Rev J. W. Davies, Chwarel Gnc", B. thesda. ACCIDEST.—At tie Oakeley Lower Quarry on Wednesday week, Mr Samuel Roberts, Garth, Llanrwst, sustained a severe injury to his leg. He is atu nried by Dr Richard Jnn>s. THE CYCLING CLUB —The inclement weather of Thursday prevented the Club having a spin. In the evening, several of the members met at the Greffyn Temperance Hotel and had a discusRion on the arrangement? for the coming season. Y.M A.—The members of the Y.M.A have held frequent meetings to make arrangements for the forthc m ng conference of the Y.M.A. which will be held in the town on May 31t. Alderman Andreas Roberts has kindly consented to preside at this evening meeting. MEETING OF LIBERALS.—Last (Thursday) night a meeting of the Rhiw and Bowydd ward was held to consider the resignation of Mr O. M. Edwards, the co Intv member, and to appoint delegates for the ensuing year. It is understood that meetings in connection with the other wards will be held Shortly. THE SCORCHERS.—There seem to be very many members of the scorching fraternity at Blaenau, Last Saturday several cyclists ran into children, and in some instances injuries of a severe nature Were sustained. Perhaps it would be as well if the police took proceedings against one or two scorchers so as to remind the other brethen that there is such a thing as a law against furious riding. WOMENS' TEMPERANCE ASSOCIATION. -The mem- bers of the Festiniog branch have appointed Miss Roberts, Boston House, High-street, and Miss Jennet Hughes, Tanygraig, to represent them at the annual meetings of the Association to be held at Edinburgh. PRESENTATION.—Last week, at a meeting held under the presidency of Mr Owen Jones, Erw Fair, the Rev Richard Roberts, son of the Rev JJavid Roberts, Rhiw was presented with a purse 'A"- sold and valuable gifts on his departure to undprtake the pastoral charge of the Presbyterian Church at Wlllesdon Green, London. THE TRADESMEN'S ASSOCIATION.—A committee of the above Association met on Wednesday even- ing of last week at the Rock Temperance Hotel. Mr W. Evans, grocer, presided. Several matters of importance to the Society were discussed. It was agreed to hold a conversazione on May 15th as a farewell meeting to Mr John Williams, London House, who is leaving the neighbourhood. It was anneunced that close upon ninety had joined the Society. SUCCESSES.—Amongst the names of the success- ful candidates at the Pharmaceutical preliminary examination, held during last month, are Mr Daniel H Parry, Bowydd View (formerly appren- tice with Mr Hugh Jones, Medical Hall), Mr Richard Morris, Leeds-street (a student of the Festiniog Intermediate School), and Mr David G. Jones, Bodefryd (an apprentice with Mr John Williams, chemist, High-street). SCHOOL BOARD, SATURDAY, MAY 5TH.-prosent: Mr E. P. Jones, chairman, presiding the Rev J. Rhydwen Parry, the Rev R. J. Williams, the Rev D. Richard?, M.A., the Rev Robert Lewis, Dr Rd. Jones, Messrs Cadwaladr Roberts, R. O. Davies. clerk and Wm. Evans, school attend- ance officer. Girls' Highei- Grade School.-The School Manage- ment Committee reported having advertised the vacancy at this school, Miss Morris, Menai Bridge, who was chosen, having declined the appointment. Proposed Improvements. -It was resolved, on the proposition of the Rev Rhydwen Parry, seconded by Mr Cadwaladr Roberts, that the Visiting Com- mittee should further consider the plans and specifications of the contemplated re-construction of the Glanypwll School bridge, the erection of a boundary wall at Wynn-road, and of alterations to the Maenofif ren School House. Mi,seellaneous.-It was re olved to hold special meeting on May 17th to re-arrange the staff for the ensuing year and to make arrangements for systematic meetings of the various committees, the latter matter being introduced by the Chairman. Superintendents at the science and art examinations were appointed. The Attendance.-The Attendance Officer (Mr Wm. Evans) reported that the unfavourable weather and the prevalence of cold and other forms of illness prevented the attendance at the schools being high. For the first three days in the p..st week it was hard upon 90 per cent., but Thurs- day and Friday brought it down to 81 per cent. He had visited the parents of 152 absentees. In 115 cases illness was advanced as an excuse. The number on the registers during the p.ist month was 2,516, and the average attendance was 2,045'7 or 81'3 per cent, compared with lal-t year 2,564 on the registers, and an average a tendance of 1,991'3 or 77'7 per cent. The school which made the best attendance was Tanygrisiau. URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL, FRIDAY NIGHT, MAY 4TH. -Present Councillors William Owen (chairman), Owen Jones (vice-chairman), Cadwaladr Roberts, J. Lloyd Jones, W. W. J^orris, Humphrey Roberts, E. M. Owen, 0. J. Uwen, E. Lloyd Powell, W, J. Williams, John organ, E. H. Jonathan, Hywel Jones, Evan R. Ev'a,68' J°ne8' Pochard, Francis W E' ^van J°ne8> Lewis Richards, with Messrs /» ^Itwen Williams (clerk asd surveyor), finRnech V?QB Assistant clerk), David Williams officer) and Dr Ri^ard Jones (medical. SUPPLY DIFFICULT! (A„U,.PL W°* STILL MORE SERIOUS. Mr y said at the last meeting atten- tion was, f tJ°bacene language used by the work^e 0 t e Co^c, wh* requested them to repa,r th in accordance Having reg „qfjon had"0118 a9Pect which the wakir »s.umed, he considered it !.acumbent iapon Co»ocil „ the officials and the workmen to gjve immediate •■attention to complaints made with lega d to j jj. ages. He did not believe in rankli0ggan but matters were getting so serious that thev must take extreme measures. PH"Dg the pasfc twelve months, there had been palpable neglect to leakages in the ward of Bo%&- *ydcl. At the last meeting of the Council, he was inclined to support the officials and the workmen, but in the interim the existence of these leakages for an unreasonable period had been proved to him beyond doubt. ge felt that the Council should profit by their experi- ence in the past and see that there wag Do recurrence of this neglect. Quoting an in. stance of neglect in the past, Mr Jones said the leakage was allowed to exist for weeks and months, the officials stating that the water was not the result of a leakage, but consisted of surface water. If neglect to repair leakages was proved in the future, he would submit a motion to the Council for the reduction of the salaries of the I officials and workmen responsible for the neglect. S6 ruf ?0rry he had to speak so plainly.— The Chairman said he was alao sorry for the neglect in the past, but he was glad that Mr Hywel Jones bad referred to such neglect in order that the Council migbt adopt the necessary precautioris, It was not the duty of the members of the Council to trace leakages. It was the duty of the.r officials and workmen to make careful inquiry into all cases reported to them and if they neglected their du;y the Council must go further thsn reduce their wages; they must dismiss them. They wtre all paid good wages and their work should be commensurate with their stipends. Of cour-e, their Surveyor as head of the department was directly responsible to the Con ei and he earnestly hoped that the latter would see that in future there was no ne, d for making such complaints. At the last meeting, the Survey r said that thejwater from the leakage, since dis- covered to be such, consisted of surface water. That there was need for taking stringent measures would be clear to the Council when the rep rt of the Sub-Committee was read.—The Surveyor said it should be made clrar toat the ca-ea referred to by Mr Hywel J'ines were the s,me as were re- ferred to in the last Council meeting. He must repeat that he defied any member of the Council to fay that he had neglected any case reported to him —The Chairman You said before that the water was surface water. Do you now admit that it was a leakage?—The Surveyor Yes.—Mr Cadwaladr Roberts said it was but fair to the Surveyor that in the cases mentioned it should be stated wheth-r the complaints were made to the workmen or Ito the Surveyor personally. Undoubtedly, he 'was directly responsible to the Council, but it should be borne in mind that the Surveyor was up to his eyes in work and that he could not personally attend to every matter, important or trivial.—The Chairman said he did not apportion all the blamo to the Sur- veyor. He blamed him for not seeing that thing3 were done properly.—Mr Cadwaladr Roberts But you just said that he was responsible to us,-The Chairman The Council cannot afford to do any- thing in the way of lapian (shielding).-Mr Cadwaladr Roberts (warmly): I am not doing any- thing in the way of li-pian. Had I followed a policy of that nature in the past, no doubt I would be better off now. The fact that I am so pla n- spoken has been against me always.-Th-- Surveyor considered that what had been said was a reflection upon him. He then explained that when the matter was reported to him a year ago, he sent one of the oldest workmen to the spot to make an in- vestigation and when the latter reported that it was not a leakage but surface water, he took no further action. A second investigation was made and again the leakage was not traced, but on the third examination the leakage wasfound. The water ran in a circular course from the leakage and that was the reason why it was constantly mistaken for surface water.-The Chairman failed to see that it was a reflection on the Surveyor in any way. They merely asked the Surveyor to do his duty. He personally considered that it was the duty of the Surveyor to pei sonally superintend the investiga- tions as to reported leakages. Surely the Council paid sufficient money to their workmen and officials to have work done properly and well. He held that the Surveyor should have made a personal in- spection at the outset of the case quoted. The Council and the officials generally should look up- on these matters in a broad-minded manner. It was not a personal matter, it was a matter of great importance not only to the Council, but to the in- habitants of the urban district of Festinicg. The Sub-Committee appointed to supervise the purposed alterations and repairs to Morwynion Lake and to consider the question of water supply reported having visited the lake on Saturday. After a thorough inspection, the Sub-Committee came to the following conclusions and gave instruc- tions accordingly to the Surveyor:-(I) That for the present no lengthening or raising of the em- bankment was to be undertaken (2) not to pro- ceed (at present at any rate) with taking out an replacing the clay puddle as originally intended tol i/o uarry uo/ certain excavations of roc't which appeared rather loose and full of joints at the east corner and toe of the embankment near the outlet chamber to fill the excavated place with the beit cement concrete obtainable, and to extend the concrete along the embankment to a height of eight or ten feet with the view of stopping the leakage thereat when the water rose to a high level. On the day 01 their visit there was 3 feet 8 inches of water above the lowest pipe compared with 4 feet 2 inches on April 19th, being a decrease of 6 inches in nine days. The daily record uP to date was as follows April 30th, 3 feet 8 inches May let, 3 l!e\lh ^h.eS I May 2"dV,3 feet 7i inches May 3rd, 3 feet 7 inches and May 4th, 3 feet 81 inches The question of augmenting the storage at the lake and the supply which might be necessary from other sources would be reported upon later. The Surveyor, in his report, stated that the work ordered to be done by the Council and their sub- committee was now well in hand. Materials for the concrete work had been carried to the site and the rock excavation and embankment were being prepared for the purpose of laying the concrete next week. The supply had not been cut off entirely during certain hours of the night as he was afraid of the danger that might result from the inrush of air into the pipes. He feared that the waste of water by the consumers throughout the district during the last two or three days had been very considerable, owing to the dirty condition of the disturbed water. From observations he had made in turning-off the water, he was of opinion that it must be done very cautiously and not wholly. Over 2,200 notices warning the inhabit- ants against wasting water and calling attention to the turning-off bad been distributed.-Mr E. H. Jonathan feared that if a drought of say three months, were to happen the result would be disastrous and it behoved the Council to make preparations for puch a dire eventualityas that. It would never do for the Council to rest on their oars. They must push on with the matter with all speed.—The Vice-Ohairnian said the Sub-Committee were moving ahead with all possible despatch. In their report they stated that they intended con- sidering the question of augmenting the supply — The Chairman Aid it must be clear to each and every member that there was no time to lose and that drastic measures must be taken to obviate disaster. The Sub-Committee would report on the question of augmentation in the immediate future. -Mr Humphrey Roberts said the Council should assure themselves that the present reservoir could hold a sufficient supply to meet the wants of the population of Fe-tiniog. It should be remembered that the reservoir was constructed twenty year ago to meet the wants of the then population and that the population had increased enormously since that time. He believed the present stor&ee capacity was something similar to that of Port- madoc, a district with a population one-fourth that of Blaenau. He did not agree with ^patching and patching. Let them carry out an "effective scheme even if it were costly, because in the long run it would be the most economical policy. He must say that he feared the results that would occur from a drought of two months or so, The Vice-Chairman said the Sub-Committee were alive to what Mr Humphrey Roberts had said and pur- posed considering the most prudent measures to solve the difficulty for good. It was absolutely essential, however, to carry out the improvements recommended at the present reservoir without delay.—Mr Humphrey Roberts said he was in favour of adopting the Sub-Committee's recom- endation.-The Chairman added that the fitter from the Company who supplied the valves to the Council accompanied the Sub-Committee and im- medIately detected certain defects. Personally he make <K»t why the Council's officials Harl discovered those defects a l«ng time before. f Council left matters alone for three months !?lifwou,d without doubt have found itselt in a fearful position.—On the motion of Mr Pritchard, the-report of the Sub-Committee was then adopted. — Mr E. Lloyd Powell next referred to the Surveyor's report as to cutting off the sup- ply during the night and said since this had been done there had been more waste than ever owing to the dirty condition of the water for a long time after it was turned on. The people had to let the water run for a considerable time before it be- came something like clear and pure.—Mr J. T. Jones endorsed the remarks of Mr Powell and said the waste was now four times as great as it used to be. In a lengthy speech, he asked if it was not possible to get the workaien of the Council to repair defective pipes and taps? At present the workmen called round at the houses and noted the defects, but declined to repair them when the occupants appealed to them to do FO. To his mind, it was a disgrace to the Couacil that they did not compel their workmen to repair these small defects. If this had been done in the pant twelve months, he felt sure there would not bs such a serious diminution in the supply as there was that; day. He moved tint the resolution to cut off the supply at night should be rescinded in view of the increa-e in waste.—Mr E. Lloyd Powell seconded the motion which was sup- ported by the Chairman and carried unanimously. —The Surveyor said the workmen of the Council could not repair defective pipes. It was not legal. They might have the power to insert new washers in tap?, but they coull not repair pipes.—Dr Rd. Jono, the medicd officer, said the inhabitants should not be alarmed at the colour of the water. The waier was as good as any in Walrs. (Hear, hear.) The colour was cnused by the water when turned on coming in contact, with the sediment in the pip s. AHRKARS IN RAtES. The Finance Committee, who have re-elected Mr E. M. 0--en as chairman, recommended that sums making a total of f36 3s 7d, arrears of general district rate, should be excused on account of debtor,,1 provtrty, and that the sum of JE5 arrears be struck off as irrecoverable that JE44 15s 9d arrears "f water reuts should be struck off as irrecoverable, .nr) 19s lOd ia gas rents—The Il:'commeudatinu was adopted.—It was reported tna £ 339 4s 7d I ad been collected in rates, etc, during the month.—The arrears totalled £ 521 14s 10 compared with f751 7s 9 in the corresponding period last year. ROADS AND IMPROVEMENTS. The Roads and Improvements Committee, who have elected Mr Cadwaladr Roberts as chairman for ¡he ensuing year, recommended the adoption of estimate of £1,300 expenditure on main ro.ds for the ensuing year of £ 350 in public lighting and f20 on lie Recreation Ground and that the Sur- veyor should prepare a detailed estimate for urgent work on roads and footpaths other than main roade. The Engineer to the Great Western Company wrote denying the liability of the Company to re- pair the road near the Feitiuiog Station, the work having been done in the past in error; and the Committee recommended that copy of the corres- pondence which had passed with the Engineer's predecessor and the Inspector and the Council's Surveyor should be sent and that the Company should be asked to put the road in good repair, alter which the Council would consider the ques- tion of adopting and repairing it in the future. A letter was read a the Committee from the Estate Agent to the London and North Western Railway Company demurring to contribute towards the exp use of (fleeting improvement at Bwlchygwynt and to give land for the purpose without being paid a fair price for the same and the Committee recommended that the importance of widening and improving the road in the interest of the Company's Lraffic should be pointed out, and that the Estate Agent should be invited to meet a deputation of the Council on the spot. The Committee recom- mended that Lord Newborough should be requested to clear the back road to Bank-place from all obstructions so as to give the proper right of way to the Bank place leaseholders that inasmuch as Messrs H. T. Owen and J. N. Edwards had not complied with the notices served upon them as to encroachments and obstructions in Leeds-street and Bowydd-street, legal proceedings should be taken again-1 them that if Mr C. M. Holland wou!d give the land required to widen Olanrafon- terrace road, the Surveyor should proceed to re- build the wall. A letter was read from Mr J. S. Foster on behalf of Mr D. G Davies, Csfnbychan, agreeing to the conditions stipulated by the Council for tile construction of new streets called Heulfryn- terrace and Oaktley square on the Cefnbychan Estate.—Mr E. H. Jonathan moved the adoption of the t-everal recommendations except that relat- ing to the estimates, as a resolution governing the latter had been passed by the Finance Committee. -Mr O. G. Owen seconded the motion which was agreed to.—Mr Cadwaladr Roberts suggested that Mr John Morgan should be re-elected chairman of the Committee. He thought it was but fair for him to hold the office for two years.-The Chair- man said this was a matter which concerned the Committee.—Mr John Morgans thanked Mr Cadwaladr Roberts for being to considerate, but lie did not waut to be re-elected. He was very glad that his friend Mr Roberts had been chosen. THE LIBRARIES. The Libraries Committee, who have 'reappointed Dr Rd. Jones as chairman and appointed Mr J. Cadwaladr as vice-chairman, recommended that the Council should levy a penny rate to meet expenses on the libraries during the ensuing year. The Librarian reported to the Committee that during the month 1,153 books were taken out, being a decrease of 316 on last month (which consisted of five weeks) and an increase of 176 on the corres- ponding month in last year. Satisfactory reports as to the Llan and Tanygrisiau branches were received. A sub committee to revise the supply of newspapers and periodicals at each library had been appointed also a sub-committee for the selection of books.—The report was adopted, Mr Powell remarking that there was a record attend- ance at the last meeting, whilst Mr Humphrey Roberts referred to the increasing popularity of the Tanygrisiau branch library. GAS AND WATER. The Gas and Water Committee, who have re- elected Mr E. H. Jonathan as chairman, recom- mended the adoption of the estimate of f.1,200 expeaditu-e on the gas works for the ensuing year and £1,000 for the water works. The Committee further recommended that the Sanitary Inspector should be deputed to take charge of readings of the gauge at Morwynion Lake daily at nine p.m.— Only the latter recommendation was adopted. HEALTH OF THE DISTRICT. The Health Committee, who have re-appointed Mr O. J. Owen as chairman, recommended that the estimate of jE520 expenditure on sewerage for the ensuing year should be adopted also estimate of £ 350 on scavenging; £ 40 for work under the Notification Diseases Act and £60 for the cemeteries. The Committee further recommended that a meeting should be held on Saturday for the purpose of visiting the sites mentioned as suitable for the No. 4 scheme of sewage disposal. — The latter recommendation was adopted. The Inspector, in his report to the Committe e, stated that the health of the district continued to be satisfac ory as represented by the Notification- Diseases Act. The number of notifications during the month was four, compared with three in the previous month and seven in the corresponding period last year. The cases, consisting of three diphtheria and one membraneoue eroup, occurred in the Conglywal, Diphwys, Rhiw, and Ystradau wards. Drs Roberts and Jones notified two and Dr W. V. Roberts, two. It was gratifying to note that the district was at last free from scarlet fever which had prevailed more or less since the middle of July. He inspected sixty-two houses situated at Wesley-street, Maecofferen, and Fair View during the month. Of these houses nine had double occupants, thirty-eight were in a sanitary state more or less defective, whi!st twenty-tour were in a good sanitary condition.—The Committee recommended that the attention of the owners of the defective houses should be called to the matter and that in the case of double-tenanted houses the Council should adopt the principle of doing away, for sanitary reasons, with such dwellings which were only intended for single occupation and that notices to convert tham into single dwelling houses should be served upon the owners.—The recom- mendation was agreed to. The Medical Officer, in his report to the Com- mittee for the month ending March 31st, stated that the number of births was 37, or 36 0 per 1,000, and the number of deaths 19, giving a death-rate of 18'5 per 1,000. The death-rate was compara- tively high, but lower than that of the corres- ponding month in 1899. The prevalence of influenza in the district and the many chest com- plications following this was the chief cause of the increased death-rate. This was particularly to be seen among tue deaths of children under one year of age. For the third month in succession, there were no deaths registered from zymotic or infectious diseases. (Hear, hear.)—The Medical Officer read to the Council his report for the month ending April 30th. The number of births was 27. giving a birth-rate of 27-0 per 1,000; whilst the deaths numbered 15, giving a death-rate of 15'0. The birth-rate was below the average, but the death-rate was mfftt satisfactory. There had been no deaths from infectious diseases this month again. The health of the district was now remark- ably good, influenza and chest affections having practically disappeared. (Sear, hear.) THE ESTIMATES. The Finance Committee recommended payment of salaries and accounts for the past month amounting to JE733 Os lid. The Committee con- sidered the estimates as presented by the different committees carefully and in many instances the amounts were considerably reduce.d.. The Clerk was instructed to prepare a revised statement which, if adopted, would admit of a Is 6d rate being levied and the Committee recommended that a special meeting should be held on May 11th to levy the general district rate.—The recommenda- tion was agreed to.-The Clerk reported that the assessable value of the district for this year upon which the general district rate was to be made was £54,886 7s 4d, being an increase of £ 1,193 7s 4d on last year. Thus a Id in the pound would YIeld, L228 13s lOd. COMPLAINTS. Complaints were made with regard to the misbehaviour of certain boys, who were said to be spoiling the grass on the Square, climbing up the band-stand, throwing stones into the hall-keeper's house, and defacing woodwork. The hall-keeper reported having caught the lads disporting them- selves on the grass. When he rushed towards them they bolted leaving behind four coats, ore cravat, and one pair of boots. (Laughter.) The boys had not come to claim their property, the articles being still on his hands. (More laughter.) It was stated that it was not laughing matter, the boys being incorrigible and it was resolved on the motion of Mr Powell, seconded by Mr J. T. Jones, to write to their parents about the matter. SURVEYOR'S REPORT. The Surveyor reported that the Electric Light Committee would be convened for Tuesday night to consider the offer of the Yale Electricity Supply Company with regard to the supply of electricity to the Council and ratepayers. The previous effort 'to hold a meeting of this Committee (during busi- ness hours) had been futile, only one member attending. A large number of leakages in servic, pipe-* had been repaired and defective tips attended to during the month. Six leakages in the mains were discovered and had now been repaired. The condition of the roads and streets generally were in a satisfactory state. The widening of Manod- road had been commenced and the work would be continued without recourse to additional workmen. With regard to the sewerage works, he regretted that up to the present he had not received the sanction of the Looal Government B'arG to the I Councils applicat'On fr;1' A. loan to complete schemes No 1 and No 2. The necessary plans, Brctions. descriptions, etc., were sent to the Board on April 17th, so that the reply might be expected any day, which he should say could not but b favourable. I REPLY FROM SIR GEORGE WHITE. The Clerk aid he had received the following reply from Sir George White 4. Draycott- place, Cadogan Gardens, S.W. April 27th. Dear sir,—I have to thank the Festiniog Urban District Council for their most kind and gra-ifying letter dated 25th April. As my time in England is likely to be limited, I fear I cannot premise myself the honour of a visit to your neighbourhood, but I am mos- grateful for your kind notice of my s-rvice and appreciation of that of the garriuon of Lady- smith. Believe me, dear sir, yours very sincerely and gratefully, Geo. S White."—Mr John Morgan balieved there was still a chance of inducing the defender of Ladysmith to visit Festiniog, Is was not a defiuite refusal. He proposed that Sir George should be agaiu asked to come.- Mr Cad wala r Roberts seconded the proposition and remarked upon the Christian conduct of Sir George during } the siege of Ladysmith.—The proposition was carried unanimously. APPOINTMENT OF ASSISTANT COLLECTOR. The Council proceeded to make the appointment of an assistant rate collector at a salary of f60 per annum.—A suggestion to dder the appointment for a week was rejected.-There were twenty-four applicants for the post, all of whom, excepting four, being from the district of Festiniog. The applications having been read, a vote was taken when the number was reduced to the following seven Messrs J. L'. Humphreys, The Theological College, Bala, formerly of Manod-road John D. w Jones, Glasgow House Evan Davies, 1, Bowy(ld View Evan G. Jones, I47 Manod-road Joseph Jones, Beehive House; John Ll. Owen, 8, New Market-square; Evan T. Evans, Belle Vue, Festiniog. The three subsequent divisions brought the number down to two-Mr J. Ll. Humphreys and Mr Evan Davies. In the final division, Mr Humphreys received ten votes and Mr Davies nine ,votes, -Mr Humphreys was, on the motion of the Chairmau, seconded by several members, then un- animously appointed. DEFERRED. The Council having already sat over three hours, the Chairman obtained leave to adjourn his motion that in future the meetings of the Council should be held in the Assembly hoome and be free to the public.-The Council then rose.

CRICOIETH. LECTURE. -The third of the series of lectures in geology given under the auspices of the County Council, was delivered in Welsh by Dr T. J. Jehu at the Town Hall on Wednesday. The subject was "Volcanic Agencies" and the lecture was illustrated by means of a lantern with the assist- ance of Mr W. H. W illiams, Manchester House. Mr Robert Thomas, shipowner, was the chair- man and there was a large audience. WESLEYAN -A new chapel is about to be built t for the Wesleyan Body on the Bite of the present Salem Chapel. The new chapel will be much larger than the existing building and ptovision will be made for a schoolroom, etc., the additional land for the purpose having already been secured. The design for the front of the Chapel, if carried out in its entirety, will be an ornament to the town. SUNDAY SCHOOL MEETING.-The Sunday School meeting for the Eifion district was held at the Golan Chapel on Sunday. Arrangements were made for the annual gymanfa, which is to be held at Sdon, Criccieth, on M%y 28th. Mr Owen Whittington, Llanystumdwy, was chosen vice- president for the ensuing year, and Mr'Griffith Richards, Criccieth, treasurer. A vote cf sympathy with Mr J. R. O.en through illness in the family was passed. The children were cateohised morn- ing and afternoon and the adults in the evening by the Rev D. E. Davies, Carnarvon. LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD.—A special inquiry into the matter of a proposdd application by the Urban District Council to borrow money for the purpose of additional works at Abereistedd to pre- vent further damage to the wall protecting the cliff and otherwise to check encroachments by the sea W, held last Friday by Major-General Crozier, one of the inspectors of the Local Government Board. Several members of the Council, together with the Deputy Clerk, the Surveyor, and Mr Bowen Jones, C.E., of Carnarvon, met the Inspector at the Town Hall and af erwards accompanied him to Aber- eistedd to inspect the wall and grovne there. SCHOOL BOARD.-A monthly meeting of the Board was held last Thursday, aU the members being present, the Rev J. OweóJ, M.A., presiding. -The Attendance Officer's report was read. The names of most of the "old offenders chiefly filled the list and legal proceedings were ordered to be taken. Lettter were also ordered to be sent in a few cases of irregular attendance aDd fiaal notices in others. The support of the Board was given to a movement to petition the Prime Minister in favour of a Bill prohibiting the sale of .intoxicating drinks to children. Requisition lists of the books, &c., required for the schools for the ensuing year were submitted to the meeting and tenders for the sup- ply of the goods were directed to be invited. The Headmaster reported that the alterations to the three departments and the supply of additional desks for the infants had been satisfactorily carried out during the Easter holidays thus completing the improvements recommended by H.M. Inspector in the last Government report. An estimate of the money required from the rates to meet the expenses of the Board for the year ending 25th March, 1901, was examined and passed.

PETFNAL SAD DEATH.—On Thursday week, at his resi- dence, St. David's road, Carnarvon, the death took place of Mr E. Hevin Jones, the representa- tive in North Wales of Messrs J. and F. Roberts, Manchester. Mr Jones, who was of a fine physique, was only taken ill 00 the previous Saturday, pneumonia being the cause of death. He was well known in business circle; in North Wales and he will be greatly mif-sed by a host of friends. He was also well known in literary circles, having taken priz s at both the national and local eistodd- fodau. He leaves a widow and three children, for whom much sympathy is felt. Mr Jones with his family had been staying quite recently at Aber- ystwyth, where he was well known and respected. He was a native of Pennal, being a son of the late Mr Edward Jones, Dyffryneder,

LLANABER. SCHOOL BOARD.—A meeting of the School Board was held on Friday evening when Mr William Lewis presided. Mr Robert Williams, Fronfair, Harlech, was appointed to represent them on the Barmouth County Governi^S Board for the ensuing three years. The attendance lists were gone through and in view of the bad state of attendance from tne-various parishes) it was decided as, regards the parish of Llanfair, to write to the Clerk of the Assessment Committee of the Dolgelley Union, calling his attention to the fact that their officer had not pud a single visit to the school for a year and urging the Committee to give the matter their early attention. It Was decided to call a special meeting in a fortnight's time to discuss the whole matter.

COR WEN", CRICKET CLUB CONCERT. -On Friday night a variety entertainment in aid of the Cricket Club was given at the Assembly Rooms. The hall was crowded and the entertainment proved to be the best of its kind ever held in the town. Mr Brown of ConwAY commenced the proceedings with a pianoforte solo and then Mr Owen Roberts, R. AM., followed with Baner ein Gwlad." Mr Boult of Liverpool introduced the comic element o1* nVBy the Sad Se* Waves." Mrs Stansneld, K.A.M., next gave "ona" and she and Miss M. Jones sang the duett '«Maying." After this Oaptain Smith, in a droll get-upj sang some comic songs which caused roars 0f laughter. Mr Owen Roberts sang "Queen of the Earth." The first part of the programme was brought to a close by Mr Boult singing 11 The Ladies' Penny Paper and Captain Smith giving the <fPiccadilly Johnny" and the" Midnight Sun." After a slight interval, Tom Roberts's Darkies" came on the scene and he choruses and songs, not to mention their quite up-to-date jokes, reflected great credit! on Mr Tom Roberts. Hokipo," a laughable farce, concluded the entertainment.

The Marquess of Londonderry will preside at the dinner and presentation by the Ulster Associa- tion to General Sir George White in the Hotel Cecil, on May 28th. The Lord Chief Justice (Lord Russell) will be present.

OHTli WALES QUABRYMEN'S LTINION. ANNUAL MEETINGS. The twenty-sixth annual meetings of the North Wales Quarrymen's Union" as ht-ld on Mondayaf Car- narvon, Mr W. W. Jones, L'.anllyfni, presiding, in the absence of Mr R. Griffi h, Festiniog, the chair- man for the year. The annual reports stated that the slate trade had been brisk and the demand for labour un- interrupted. There had some complaint of [owness of wages, but no organised effort to improve the rate. There had been no labour disputes in the district during the year. The amount received in subscriptions was £ 553 Os 6d. A um of f42 16s 9d had been collected on b half of Mr Robert Davies, chairman of the late Penrhyn Strike Committee, who had been dismissel from the quarry. Attention was c11L d to the fact that in s me districts lodges showed 0 manifest indicat ons of decay. Other lodges showed increased vigour. One new lodge had been established notwithstanding that last year's festival entailed a loss of £ 83 8s Toe Union's credit balance had increased by fl41 10s lid, the total balance being n w £ 1,109 9s. A Delegate inquired whether it was the rule tl have au annual audit of the accounts of each lo.ige? The AUDITOR rtplted in the affirmative. It was, however, admitted on behalf of some lodges, in- cluding that of Festiniog, that this bad not been done last year. As a result of the discussion, a resolution was agreed to unanimously directing the attention of the lodges to the ru'e which r quired an annual audit of the accounts of each lodge. The CHAIRMAN, discussing the Auditor's r, port, said the Union would only be strong in proportion t,) their fund. Their labour day c(,tt them at least £ 600 a year, and it wa becoming a question whether it would not be b tter to put that S'jm in to their funds. The R IN AN CIA L {SECRETARY (Mr W. H. William-) s.iid the financial question was becoming increas- ingly important. He was s rry to say that q arr, men, however much they might believe in unicn. did not believe in a fund to which they mu-t periodically contribute. They only recognised the value of the fund when the cupboard was b,re. (Laughter.) Believers in a union without a fund should present some practical scheme lor carrying on such an organisation. For his e-wn part, he could not reconcile support of unionism with objection to a fund. (Laughttr.) Tii, y must he unionists or non-unionists—th-y could not be both. Speak:ng from his experience as financial secretary, he said he had no hesitation in saying that quarries, large and small, showed a tendency to rush into membership of the Union at the leas' sign of local labour troubles and ro discontinue their subscrip- tions as soon as the cloud floated away. He had a case in point during the past year when the strained relations between masters and men at one of the quarries had doubl-d and trebled the mem bership of the local lodge. In six months the trouble had passed and the new -meinllc-ri had nearly to a man disappeared. The English trades unions were in earnest and showed t'tf ir earnest- ness by raising substantial funds. He doubted whether the North Wales quarrymen were equally eirnest. The following were elected the Executive Com- mittee for the ensuing year:Alr Henry Jones, B- thesda Mr G. T. Jones, Groesbm Mr E. H. Edwards, Rhostryfan Mr Morris Jon s, Bont- newydd Mr L. Jenkins, Festiniog; and Mr Robert Williams, Glynuchaf, the Trawsfynydd Lodge being authorised to appoint a seventh mem- ber. Mr W W. Jones, Nantlle, was unanimously elected president for the year. Mr W. Morris, Bontnewydd, and Mr W. Williams. Bethesda, w re appointed vice-presidents. Mr W. H. Williams was unanimously re-elected financial secretary. Mr W. M. Parry of Talysarn was elected auditor. It was decided to hold the next festival at Bethesda. The attendance of the quarrymen at the demon- stration in the afternoon at tne Pavilion was larger than usual, the great building, accommodating eight thousand persons, being more than half full at the time for commencing the proceedings. Prior to the assembly at the Pavilion, the streets were perambulated by a procession of the members with the following bands Nantlle, Penmachno, Dol- wyddelen, Waenfawr, Gam Dolbeninaen, Oakeley, and Beddgclert. Mr J. Bryn Roberts, M P., pre- sided and he was supported by Mr J. Herbert Lewis, M.P., Professor Henry Jones, and the Union leaders Following a speech by the Chairman on the importance and desirability cf trade unions, Mr HENRY JONES, Bethesda, moved a resolution ex- pressing the conviction that it was through the principle of trades unionism that they, as quarry- men, had any hope of securing their just rights, and also expressing gratification at the progress made throughout the country by trades union principles. The motion was seconded by Mr H. O. JONES Rhostryfan, and supported by Mr J. H. LEWIS! M.P, and Professor HENRY JONES, Glasgow University, and carried. In the course of his remarks, Mr J. H. LEWIS said an appeal has been made from Blaenau Fes tiniog for the establishment of a school of mines at the North Wales University College. That ap- peal, which was supported by a powerful and eloquent speech by a working quarryman, had re- ceived a most sympathetic response from the Court of Governors. (Applause.) He hoped that the proposal would be thoroughly sitted at the conference which had been appointed to discuss the matter and that it would be carried into effect in the form that would be most conducive to the mining and quarrying interests of North Wales. It was important boto to e,nployers and employed it was one of those questions on which capital and labour did well to unite their forces. It was the greatest conceivable mistake to suppose, as some people did, that trade unions merely existed for the purpose of fighting employers. As the result of organisation many a conflict between capital and labour which would otherwise have caused untold loss and waste had been avcided. (Applause.) In thousands of cases trade unions had been the means of avoiding the barbarous arbitramet of a strike or a lock-out. Under wis" and tactful leadership many a well-reserved victory had been won for labour without the loss of a day's wage. No move- ment was free from imperfections, but the trade union movement had in the past been a great in- strument for securing useful reforms. With loyalty, enthusiasm, and cohesion the movement would yet do great things for the workers and for the nation. (Applause.)

WARMING, STRENGTHENING, COMFORTING, Is the verdict of all who use Alleocli's J Plasters BaokAche and f Weak Chests they quickly cure. W As an external • application tbey 1 3s are P j •' t THE ACME OF r ..K J PERFECTION. But bc sure to get 1/ A L L C 0 C K' S when &W ■« y?u want a Porous IK Mi/r Plaster. Don't be I lb persuaded to take I any other—ALLCOCK j M V and ALLCOC K' S only. business Abbrtssts. N Pwllheli Ul ts IA J. GABRIEL JONES AND CO., WATCHMAKERS, JEWELLERS, & OPTICIANS, 42, HIGH ST., PWLLHELI. Repairs neatly executed on the Premises, w SHOP GOCH, PWLLHELI. ESTABLISHED 1770. NOTED HOUSE FOR MANTLES, COSTUMES, MILLINERY. Boys', Youths', and Men's Ready-made Clothing. Ø' Suits made to order by First class Tailors. w989 HUGH WILLIAMS, Proprietor. JOHN HUGHES, C.E., ENGINEER OF THE PWLLHELI PIER AXD OTHER IMPORTANT WORKS. ENGINEER, SURVEYOR, AND ARCHITECT. All communications to SALEM PLACE, xl25 PWLLHELI. R. C. MORRIS, FAMILY GROCER AND ITALIAN WAREHOUSEMAN, STANLEY STORES, 17, HIGH ST., PWLLHELl. TEAS of olc -fashioned flavour, not to be excelled, from Is 4d to 2s 6d per lb. Harris's Primed Wilts Smoked Bacon and yausages. Agent for David Jones's Anti- Convulsion and Worm Drops. w987 ^Business JLbbrcsscs Criccieth. FAMILY GROCERS, PROVISION MERCHANTS, ITALIAN WAREHOUSEMEN, COdN & FLOUR DEALERS. WILLIAMS' STORES, CASTLE ST. & CASTLE SQUARE, CRICCIETH. Try our 2s. Tea. A speciality. x91 R. P, JONES, DRAPER, CLOTHIER, OUTFITTER, HOSIER, &C. LONDON HOUSE, CRICCIETH. High-class tailoring and tailor-made costumes, etc., to order. All cloths cut up by special cutters at Bristol Leicester, and Stockport, etc. Splendid fit and quality guaranteed. wlJ99 .;8;:¡: ..¡, =-:o.Æ: Blaenau Festiniog. PURFST jTiiUGS AT LOWEST PRICES, HUGH JONES, M.P.S., CHEMISr & QUALIFIED OPTICIAN, MEDICAL HALL, BLAENAU FESTINIOG. w992 COMMERCIAL HOTiiL (FAMILY AND COMMERCIAL), MARKET SQUARE, BLAENAU FESTINIOG (Close to the L.N.W. Railway Station). Every accommodation for Tourists, Visitors, and n, Commercial Gentlemen. Choice Wines and Spirits. Mild and Bitter Ales and ijuinness Stout. Ordinary Daily from I to 2 p m w991 D. W. EYNON. Proprietor." MR JOHN DAVIES, 17, LEEDS-STREET, BLAENAU FESTINIOG AUCTIONEER AND VALUER (of the Firm of Mr N. Edwards, Berlin House), BEGS to inform the public that he undertakes all sales of houses, land, furniture, etc. He now holds monthly sales at the Market Hall. Tnis is an excellent opportunity for persons to dispose of o!d furniture, etc. For further particulars, apply at above address. w990 THE GENUINE REMEDY. M ORRIS EVANS' Household Oil in Bottles, Is lid .l and 2s 6d, for Rheumatism, Bruises, or Pains m any part of the body for Burns, Scalds, Chilblains for the Toothache, Diphtheria, Sore Throat, Weak Chest etc. Indispensable to Athletes Never known to fail. Excellent testimonials. 8 le Proprietors and Manufacturers, MORRIS EVANS & Co., FESTIN .OG. v.998 LLOYD & SON, WATCHMAKERS, JEWELLERS, SILVERSMITHS, AND OPTICIANS, OPTICIANS, HIGH STREET, BLAENAU FESTINIOG. Promptitude, neatness, and good workmanship gfuaran'.eed. Fancy Leather GOJds, Electro-plated Goods, China Goods suitable for presents lu large variety. With all Wedding Rings purchased, good and useful presents given. w995 DRESS GOODS DRESS GOODS NEW STOCK JUST IN. SHOP YR ERYR, BLAENAU FESTINIOG. Navy and Black all-wool Serges from Is 6Ad per yard. Black and White Stripe Alpaca, and Navy and Black Stripe, do., Is tijd. Coloured Cycling Tweeds, Checks o d!1' 1 j ?? Coloured all-wool Poplins t Cfl*ck £ nd Vw>' Amazons" cloth, 3s lid. Black F,mcy Stripe Uress, 2s lid Black Broche Silk and Wool 4s od and 4s lid. Lawrus" Dress Fabrics, Piell finish lrimmmgs to match above. x595 D. ROBERTS, Manager. Greffin Temperance Hotel, MARKET-PLACE, BLAENAU FESTINIOG (Close to the L. and N. W. Railway Company Station.) Visitors and Commercial Gentlemen will find every at- tention paid to their Comfort, Well-aired Beds, Public and Private Sitting-room, Commercial Room and Good Stock Room. Luncheons, Dinners, Teas, &c., on shortest notice on reasonable terms. w993 MRS JOHN THOMAS. THE QUEEN'S HOTEL, BLAENAU FESTINIOG, N. WALES. ELECTRIC LIGHT THROUGHOUT. RE-FURNISHED & RE-DECORATED. I MODERN SANITARY APPLIANCES. Hot and Cold Luncheons, 12-30 to 2-0. Table D'Hote Dinner, 7-30. POSTING. w994 FRED T. FLINN, Proprietor. EASINE Will completely cure HEAD-ACHE, NEURALGIA, TOOTH- ACHE, AND PAINS IN THE HEAD IN A FEW MINUTES. EASINE ACTS LIKE MAGIC. Always ask for EASINE and see that you get no substitute. HUNDREDS OF TESTIMONIALS RECEIVED. le. POST FREE. Prepared only by- HUGH JONES, CHEMIST, MEDICAL HALL, BLAENAU FESTINIOG. xl83 Tremadoc. THE GREAT WELSH REMEDY. JONES' TKEMADOC PILLS, ESTABLISHED 1838, H. TT_ (PELENAO JONES, TREMADOG) AVE stood the test of sixty-two years in this kingdom .,a ^n nent of Europe. There is hardly a family in Wales who have not heard their fathers and grand-fathers speak of their great virtues in the curing of g1! DISEASES paying their origin in a DISORDERED £ T9^CH °r, LIVER, and IMPURITIES OF THE BLOOD, and that obstinate Disease RHEUMATISM. Sold by all the Wholesale Houses and by all Chemists throughout the World, in Boxes for Is lid, 2s 6d, and 4s each. If they cannot be obtained in your neighbourhood, send their value in Stamps or P.O. to the CAMBRIAN PILL DEPOT, TREMADOC NORTH WALES. Nothing less than a Whole Box is sold of Jones' Tre- madoc Pills. Thousands of testimonials have been re- ceived. x6 ^Business Ù{)t£95£9. Aberdovey. E. PUGH, BOOT AND SHOE WAREHOUSE, PROSPECT PLACE, ABERDOVEY (LATE Y\ ILLIAM LLOYD). Boots and Shoes made to order. will All orders pron.ptly attended to. .cø: Portmadoc. A. KIKRHOPE^ WHOLESALE PASTRY BAKER & CONFECTIONER, 7, N E W STREET, PORTMADOC. All CAKES, etc., manufactured from pu-rst incredients 'on)v. The }• tiiest QUALITY of 1J.EAD made. Wedding-, Christen- :u. and Birthday Cakes tastefully iced and ornamented. x308 LLOYD & SON, PRINTERS, BOOKBINDERS, AND STATIONERS, 125, HIGH ST^F.hT PORTMADOC. I Ehgr-viug, Dit-f-inking, aud ReLet Stamping neatly executed. Every description of Account Boúk made to order. xl41 Monuments & Headstones 1,: ¡ MARBLE, GRANITE, AND SLA-IE- I iii-So DOOR STEPS, HEARTH STONES, SILLS, AX:) SLALE-v .RICHARD WILLIAMS & Co SLATE WORKS, xl PORTMADOC. CF-ARLES HUGHES, COaCH BUILDER, ic, CUMBRIAN CARRIAGE w0 R K S (Near the Cambrian Railway Station), PORTMADOC. NEW CARRIAGES of all descriptions MADE TO ORDEE and REPAIRS IsEATLY EXECUTED. The best Workmanship given and Charges Moderate* Old Carriages and Harness taken and Exchanged fo new, or for Cash. w 1000 J GAS J O^TES (REGISTERED PLUMBER), B'OT AND COLD WATER AND SANITARY ENGINEER. Every description of sanitary work undertaken. Old Drains tested and re-constructed upon the latest sanitary principles. Estimates furnished. 20, SNOWDQN-STREET, PORTMADOC. ARTHUR J. DICKINSON, ARCHITECT, SURVEYOR, AND CIVIL ENGINEER, PORTMADOC & PWLLHELI. ADDRESS—PWLLHELI. x454 AT GWALIA HOUSE, HIGH STREET (Two dr.ors from TOWN HALL), WILL BE FOCSD THE LARGEST STOCK OF REA DY-AL ADES FOR MEN, YOUTHS, AND BOYS IN PORTMADOC. Always a good stock of Oilskins, Suits, and Se.ilors' Outfit. xl PATRONISED BY H M. THE QUEEN AND H.R.H. THE PRINCE OF WALES :t RICHARD NEWELL, PURVEYOR OF lEAT. CENTRAL BUILDINGS, PORTMADOC. BRANiCHES-Beach Road, BARMOUTH (near the Railway Station), 12, High Street, CRICCIETH (opposite the New Church), and the Central Build- ings, MaeR, PWLLHELI. HAVING nlarged the premises at Port- madoc, and ecured Cold Storage, I am enabled to have a Constant Supply of Primt Beef (Lamb, Veal, and Pork when in season) and I the celebrated four-year-old real Welsh Mounta;n Mutton, bred on the Snowdonian, Cader, and Plynlymon ranges. A constant Supply of Home-cured Hams and Bacon. Ø" Try my Celebrated Sausages, made by Gardener's Simplex Sileat Sausage Machine, driven by Water Power, thereby securing perfect cleanli- ness and thorough mincing. r345 HAVE YOU SEEN THE MERIDIAJN ENGLISH LEVER WATCH, Capped and Jewelled. Sent free by post (Registered) for 65s and 6Ss. Warranted for four years. To be obtained of J. J. REESE, WATCHMAKER AND JEWELLER. MERIDIAN HOUSE, PORTMADOC. GOLD, WEDDING, AND FANCY RINGS, GOLD AND SILVER CHAINS. Large selection of Electro-plated Goods. Established 1869. rl3 gcntisirg. MR R. EDWARDS, SURGEON DENTIST, PORTMADOC, MAY BE CONSULTED AT BAR- MOUTH, the Firat and Third THURSDAY in every month, at Mr Jones', draper, Meirion House (opposite the Barmouth Hotel), from 12 till 6 p.m. BALA, at Mr David Jones', saddler, every SATURDAY and FAIR DAYS from 10 till 5 p.m. PWLLHELI,every WEDNESDAY, at Mr Parry's, watchmaker, 12 till 4; CRICCIETH, at Llyscaradoc, every WEDNESDAY from 4-30 till 7 p.m. CORWEN, first FRIDAY in each month and FAIR DAYS, at Mr Edwards, cooper, from 11 till 5 p.m. n479 Blaenau Festiniog. ELECTRIC LIGHTING. THE NATIONAL ELECTRIC WIRING CO., LTD., Electrical Installation Engineers and Contractors to Her Majesty's Government, the London County Council, and some of the principal Supply Corporations in Great Britain. Use the cheapest, safest, and most durable system of Electric Light Wiring in existence. The following are some of the advantages possessed Absolute safety from fire extreme compact- ness little or no cutting away required. Durability The lead sheathing being perfectly watertight, no wood casing is necessary. High capacity and extremely moderate cost. PLANS AND ESTIMATES FREE. All enquiries should be addressed to- HEAD OFFICE THE MANAGER, Faraday House, THE NATIONAL ELECTRIC WIRING Co., Charing Cross-road, London. BLAENAU FESTINIOG, N. W. [w986 Llanbedr. COALS, LIME, BRICKS, PIPES, &c. BEST HOUSE, STEAMTAKU SMITHY COALS. BUILDING AND AGRICULTURAL LIME, DELIVERED AT ALL RAILWAY STATIONS IN TRUCK LOADS AT LOWEST PRICES. ApPLY TO- ROB E R T RICHARDS, PENSARN, LLANBEDR, R SO. xl3 lrovw-yn. "fa H. W. GRIFFITHS, BOOT AND SHOE WAREHOUSE, 7, COLLEGE GREEN, TOWYN, THE NOTED "K" BOOTS. Bespoke Work and all kinds of Repairs ^PREMISES' »