The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

BARMOUTH SHIPPING.—The ss "Dora" arrived on Wed- nesday with a good cargo and left on Thursday noon for Liverpool. CYCLING.—Mr John Richards, 2, Borthwen- terrace, brought two first prizes home with him from Pwllheli on Whit-Monday, one for the mile and one for the three mile race. Mr John Lloyd, junr, brought two prizes home, the second prize for the 440 yards and third prize for the 100 yards. ELECTION OF CHURCHWARDEN —At the annual vestry held on Thursday last, Dr Hughes was unanimously elected as churchwarden. Mr E W Ellis was also nominated by t'le Rector. A NEW TRAM ROAD.-A new tram road has been opened this week at Barmouth Junction. The tram road was constructed by Mr Solomon Andrews, owner of the estate. Trams will run daily, conveying passengers through some charm- ing scenery and affording full view of the estuary and the hills. SUCCESS OF THE MALE VOICE CHOIR. The choir came out successful at Bala Eisteddfod, winning the first prize of dS30 and £ 3 for the leader. There were eight choirs competing. A CALL.—The members of Christ Church on Sunday night unanimously invited the Rev M W Griffith, B.A., of Talysarn, to become their pastor. WHITSUN.—A good number of visitors came here for Whitsun as usual. There was a fair number of trippers in on Monday. The trips during the week were much smaller than they used to be years ago. Several trips are to come in on Friday from different parts. The traffic in motor cycles and motor cars through the town has been heavier than usual, some making for Carnarvon and others travelling south for Aber- ystwyth and Shrewsbury way. t GILCHRIST LECTURES.—On Tuesday night, at the County School, a meeting had been called to consider the advisability of making an applicat ou to the Gilchrist Trustees to extend their lectures tc Barmouth. Circulars had been issued by the Rev Canon Hughes and Mr E. D. Jones, M.A and a good number of persons had gathered together by the appointed time. The chair was taken by the Rev Canon Hughes.- The Chairman, after explain- ing the object of the meeting and pointing out the necessary conditions, etc, said that this was a golden opportunity for Barmouth to start a movement so as to secure the inestimable boon of a course of scientiffic lectures by eminent mea who can pre sent their facts in a popular and interesting manner. —Letters regretting inability to attend were read from Miss Griffith, Arianfryn, who promised her hearty:support. Mr Wilson Roberts and Alderman Lewis Lewis sent messages to the same effect.-The Rev J. Gwynoro Davies pointed out that there could only be one opinion in the matter. However lax they had been in the past, it was not too late to reform and thought their chances of success would be good. He moved formally that they should make an application.—The Rev Z. Mather strongly seconded the proposition.—After Dr Hughes, Mr H. Evans, Mr Adams, and Mr Tom Abraham had spoken in favour of^the^lectures, the proposition was carried unanimously.—The follow- ing were then elected a committee to make pro- visional arrangements with regard to the applica- tion:—Canon Hughes, Revs J.Gwynoro Davies and Z.Mather and Dr Hughes, Messrs J. Thomas, E. D. Hughes, M.A., Hugh Evans, J. H. Richards. The Rev Canon Hughes undertook to discharge the duties provisiollldlyof secretary. The Chairman warmly urged on each one present to do all in their power to create a healthy interest and en- tnusiaam in the movement. Their object was to stir the minoa, of the young out of the lethargy and torpor which too aften characterised their attitude in relation to intellectual pursuits. Min isters knew too well that that was so. The com- mittee will meet again at seven p.m. on Tuesday next.

CORRIS. PERSONAL.—We are given to understand that the Rev Berwyn Roberts, Wesleyan minister, at the end of his term of three years' ministry at Moriah and Shiloh Chapel, will take charge of Lampeter Church in August next and the Rev Evan Isaac, Merthyr, will take his place at Corris. PRESENTATION.—Rehoboth and Esgairgeiliog C.M. Chapels are preparing to make a presentation to their pastor, the Rev J Roberts, on his departure to undertake the pastoral charge of Warren-road Church at Rhyl. at the end of June. TEMPERANCE FESTIVAL.—The sixty-sixth annual temperance festival was held at Corns on Wednesday evening of last week and all day Thursday (Ascension Day). The proceedings were presided over by Mr M Thomas, chairman of the Merioneth County Council, who is alsc chairman of the local temperance society for the year. SerlYons and addresses were delivered by the Revs Wynne Davies, Liverpool E Richards, Tonypandy; and Charles Davies, Cardiff. A re- solution was unanimously passed protesting against the Compensation Bill, And a second resolution was passed thanking Mr Osmond Williams, tne county member, for his support of temperance in the county and in Parliament. SUCCESS.—At the competitive concert held in Mach- ynUeth on Saturday week, out of several competitors Mr John Jones, Dolybont, the well-known reciter, won the silver medal for the best rendering of a piece of poetry.

TAN I7 BWLCH, MER. WHITSUNTIDE. The fine weather has drawn many visitors to the locality over Whitsun the Royal Oakeley Arm Hotel being quite full. Trippers by bicycle or by train arrived in Tanybwlcn in scores on Whit- Monday, making the Royal Oakeley Hotel their headquarters. Mrs Williams, the proprietress, who caters excellently at an exceedingly moderate tariff, I offers the same facilities to the day tripper as to the residential visitor, in that all who patronise the I hotel have access to the beautiful grounds of Mr Oakeley. Picnic parties are specially catered for, and if ever there was an ideal place for a picnic Tanybwlch, with its indescribably magnificent scenery, is that place. The recent visitors staying at the hotel included several eminent persons, including two on tour from India.

English choirs again obtained the chief awards in the musical contests at Monday's Eisteddfod, which was held at Cjfnmawr, Ruabon. In the male voice contest, which attracted considerable attention, Rhos, Wigan, Llangollen, and South- port entered. Rhos and Southporfc were staged and sang Protheroe'a chorus, The Britons." In awarding the premier honours to Southport, the adjudicators (Mr Lewis, of Bryiamman, and Principal Venables, of Londoti) said that Rhos slightly marred their performance by indulging in vibrato singing. In the chief competition Black- pool was awarded the first prize of f40 for a selection from Handel's ljephtha, completely out- classing Carnarvon and Rhos. Mr Samuel Mos; M.P., commented on England's continued triumph over Welsh choirs, which he attributed to Wales lacking thoroughness. Wales, too, should arrange a competition to suit the local environments and chief industries, as development in singing was useless compared with technical training. The ode contest was the occasion of an outburst of extra ordinary enthusiasm, and Robert Owen Hughes, otherwise, Elfin, of Festiniog, who proved the winner, was ohaired amidst much ceremony. ceremoDY.

BALA. SINGING FESTIVAL.—The annual musical festival of the Congregational Sunday Schools of Penllyn was held last Thursday at Llanuwchllyn. The weather was beautiful and there was a large attendance. In the afternoon the adults were catechised in St John 20th chapter by ttaeRev T. T. Phillips, B.D. the junior class in the history of the Israelites, by Mr Thomas Bowen.Llanuwchllyn; and the children in the history of Jesus Christ, by Mr Edward Evans, Lon. The evening meeting was devoted to singing which was conducted by Mr R. Madoc Davies, A.R.C.M., London Mr Hughes, Bala, acted as accompanist. The singing throughout was excellent, and the festival proved a great success. During the meeting the result of the examinations held in connection with the Sunday Schools was given and the following awards were made:— In the senior class the first prize was awarded to Miss Mary Morris, Bala, and the second to Mr J. W. Row- lands, Bala. In the class over 16 years of age, the follow- ng prizes were given :-First, Sophia Rowlands. Carmel, Llanuwchllyn second, R. Williams. Bala third. L. M. Jones, Cynllwyd, Llanuwchllyn. In the class under six- teen years of age, the prizes were as follows: -First,John Jones, Pandy, Llanuwchllyn; second, Laura Jones, Peniel, Llanuwchllyn; thiro,D. H.Jones,Cynll wyd, Llanuwchllyn. Prizes and certificates were also awarded to a number of children who had successfully passed in the examination in the history of Jesus Christ.

BALA EISTEDDFOD. The seventh annual eisteddfod was held at Bala on Whit Monday. The Committee again this year had procured a marquee which was erected in Plasgoch Field, which is suitably situated in close proximity to the town, station, and lake. The weather was beautiful and special trains brought into Bala a large number of people while vehicles of every description poured in their loads from all directions. The pa-vilion had been very tastefully decorated and presented an animated spectacle with its various mottoes and names of deceased eisteddfodwyr :The officials this year were :-Chairman of Committee, the Rev L. D. Jenkins, B.A., rector vice-chairman, Mr R. Lloyd Jones, Mount-place treasurer, Mr Edgar Evans, N.P. Bank, and secretary, Mr R. Evans, printer. The committee were:-Messrs J C Evans, M.A., County School J Parry, J P., Glantegid Dr Williams, Tawelfan Dr White Jones, Plasyracre Messrs W T Jones, Bryny- groes R W Roberts, builder J W Roberts, Berwynfa John Williams, postmaster E Watkins, Tynypren E Davies, Park House 0 H Hughes, watchmaker Owen Lewis (Glan Cymery) G Roberts (Gwrtheyrn) Revs J Howell Hughes, T Talwyn Phillips, B.D., Messrs J R Jordan, solicitor W Owen, White Lion Hotel J B Parry, grocer J R Jones, tailor J T Jones, N. and S.W. Bank; Moses Roberts, High-street H W Lloyd, chemist D T Lewis, Manchester House Daniel Rowlands, Pensarn- road, and John Edwards, Tremaran Cottage. The musical adjudicators were Messrs Tom Price, Merthyr Dan Price, and W. M. Roberts, Wrexham (the latter taking the place of Mr Maldwyn Humphreys, who was unable to attend owing to illness.) The poetical adjudicator was the Rev H. Elvet Lewis, London. Messrs W. Lewts Jones, U.C.W., Bangor, and J. Rhys Evans, M.A., Portmadoc, adjudicated the prose, and the Rev T. T. Phillips and Gwrtheyrn the recitations. The conductor of the proceedings was Mr J. J. Hughes, the Stores, Bala, who kept the large audience during the meetings in ex- cellent spirits with his ready witticisms and repartees. The president of the morning meeting was Alderman Evan Jones, J.P, Bodrennig, Bala. The eisteddfod was opened by Mr H. R. Davies, Erinter, singing the eisteddfod song, after which ardic effusions were delivered by a number of the bardic fraternity. The adjudication of Elvet on the epigram, Amser," was read, and the prize was awarded to Ystyriol" who did not answer to his name, out of fourteen competitors. Pianoforte competition, confined to children under sixteen, "Con Energia "-I, Miss Myfanwy Morris, Llanuwchllyn 2, Miss Edith Derbyshire, Birkenhead. Out of twelve competitors, the prize for reciting Gelert" was divided between Miss Gwen Anne Jones, Gelli, and Miss Jane Williams, Llanuwchllyn. In the con- tralto solo, there were twenty three competitors and the prize of £1 was won by Miss Josephine Williams, Llangefni. For a descrip- tion in French of an eisteddfod, the prize was awarded to Mr J 0 Hughes, Tryweryq View, Bala. For knitted pair oflwoollen gloves, the first prize was given to Miss Williams, Llwyn- mawr, Bala, and second prize to Miss Price, Llanbadarnfawr, Aberystwyth. Quartette com- petition, Blessed are the Poor in Spirit." Out of thirteen parties, three were called to the stage and the prize was awarded to a party from Bir- kenhead. For the best bookmark with the words, Goreu Arf, Arf Dysg," the prize was won by Miss Jane Ellen Peters, Rhydywen, Llan- gnwer, and a second prize was awarded to Miss M C Parry, Rhydyfen, near Bala. Worked slippers, Miss Price, Llanbadarnfawr. In the tenor solo, "The Old Minstrel" (Pughe Evans), there were thirty-seven competitors, out of which three were called to the stage, and after an ex- cellent competition, the prize was divided be- tween Messrs W B Hughes, Birkenhead, and John Williams, Ruthin. For the best romance based upon the history of Owen Glyndwr, the prize was awarded to Mr E W Morgan of the Theological College, Bala. The chief choral competition of the morning meeting then took place for a prize of B30 and £3351 for the conductor in the singing by male voice choirs of On the Ramparts" (Saintis.) This competition was eagerly looked forward to and proved to be a very keen one. There were nine entries, out of which seven choirs competed, viz, Penmaenmawr Male Voice Choir, Uwchaled Male Voice Choir, Rhayadr Male Voice Party, Barmouth Male Voice Choir, Ruthin Male voice Choir, Moelwyn Male Voice Party, and Birming- ham Welsh Gleemen. In giving a detailed ad- judication, Mr Tom Price said that the competi- tion had been an excellent one :throughout. He awarded the prize to the [Barmouth Male Voice Choir who had given a most excellent rendering. The result was received with great acclamation. This brought the proceedings of the morning meeting to a close. The afternoon meeting was commenced shortly after 1.30 p.m. under the pre- sidency of Mr R. J. Lloyd Price, Rhiwlis. Mr R. Roberts, Bala, having eung the eisteddfod song, bardic effusions were delivered. For a drawing from nature any three diSerent spring flowers (to competitors under eighteen years of age) the priz was awarded to H. W. Humphreys, Dolgelley For freehand drawing of wild primrose plant coloured in crayon (confined to elementary school children), the prize was won by R. J. Stanley Evans, Board School, Bala. For a recitation of Lord Ullin's daughter," the prize was given to Miss Ethel Lewis, Rhayadr. Mr Tom Price awarded the priz of 21 for the soprano solo Yr Arglwydd yw fy mugail," to Miss Bessie Williams, Birkenhead. The next item was the chairing of the successful bard. The subject was for the best ode on "Codiad Haul," for which a prize of £ 2 2s was given and a handsome oak chair (presented by Mr and Mrs Price, Rhiwlas). There were five com- petitors. The adjudication of Elvet was read by Gwrtheyrn, from which it appeared that the winner was Mr John Evans, who is a student at the Bala-Bangor Independent College, who was chaired with great enthusiasm. For a carved picture frame, the prize was awarded to Mr Robert Davies, Corwen, and for a carved p-tper knife to Mr R T Jones, Dolgwerfil, Cerrig. The Adjudicator awarded the prize for the duett, Excelsior," to Messrs W B Hughes and R G Davies, Birkenhead. Other prizes were awarded as follows :—Trans- lation, Mr J E Jones, Anfield, Liverpool. Recita- tion of "H wyrnos Gauaf," Mr W. Edwards, Cefnmawr. Bass solo, Rhoddwch y cleddyf yn ei wain." There were thirty-three competitors and the Adjudicator awarded the prize to Mr Hugh Howells, Carreg, Corwen and table centre, 1, Miss Parry, Rhydyfen, near Bala; 2, Alri Hudson Jones, Porthydwr, Ruthin 3, Miss Price, Llanbadarnfawr. The next item was the chief choral competition, in which again great interest was taken, The test piece was (a) Be not Afraid" and (b) "Yr Awel Fwyn," for which a prize of 1:45 was offered and 95 for the conductor. A second prize of £10 was also offered. The following choirs competed -Dolgelley Competitive Choir (conductor, Mr Robert Davies,, Blaenau Festinioe- United Choir (conductor, Mr Cadwaladr Roberts), Blackpool Glee and Madrigal Society (conductor, Mr H. Whittaker). The adjudicators stated that the competition had baen an excellent one and the contest very keen. The three choirs had given an excellent rendering. The first prize was awarded to Blackpool, who obtained eighteen marks, the second prize being awarded to Dolgelley, who received seventeen marks, while the Festiniog Choir received sixteen marks. For the essay on the best means of reviving rural life, tho prize was awarded to Mr Thomas Williams, of the Bala Theological College. In the Ladies' Choir competition, one choir only came forward, viz: Blackpool Ladies' Choir. The test piece was The Lord is my Shepherd" (Schubert). The adjudicators stated that the choir had given an excellent rendering and were fully worthy of the prize, £10 10s. This brought the eisteddfod to a close. In the evening a concert was held under the presidency of the Rev L D Jenkins, when the fol- lowing took part .-Miss Maggie Davies, Mr Dan Price, Mr Ben Johnsou, aud the winners of the different solos — Miss Rowlands, LUnuwcllyn Miss A E Owen, Blaenau Festiniog and Mr Rd Bol- wood, Bala, acted as accompanists. The eisteddfod throughout proved a success, and great credit is due to the Secretary for tin manner he discharged his various duties.

The Dublin University Council have recom- mended to the Senate to approve of admitting women to the rights of the University.

unting JLPPOMIMCNTA. THE B.O. SUBSCRIPTION PACK WILL MEET (Weather and water permitting) I Saturday5 June 6th Llansanttiriidd, Oswestry 9-15 a m. Monday, June 8th In the Mewod Diatriot 8-0 a.m. Wednesday, June 10th In the Llanfairceinion district I Wednesday, June 10th In the Llanfairceinion 9-0 a.m.

ABERDOVEY METEOROLOGICAL.—Reports for week ending Saturday, May 30th Bright sunshine, 70*3 hours rainfall, 0'16 inches temperature, highest maximum, 72 (Wednesday), lowest, 63 (Friday); highest minimum, 68 lowest, 59. SHIPPING.—The schooner Rebecca Mary arrived here on Saturday from Newquay with timber for the new lifeboat slip. The steamer "Dora" arrived on Saturday night from Liver- pool with a general cargo of goods for the dis- trict. The steamer "City of Vervirs" (Capfi Pirie), arrived on Monday from Antwerp with a cargo of cement alld pipes. The pipes are for the Towyn waterworks. TEMPERANCE. — The temperance meeting on Sunday evening was addressed by the Revs D Rowlands, Shrewsbury, and D Tecwyn Evans, B.A., Aberdovey. A bass solo was rendered by Mr T L Jones in good style. Mr D Hughes pre. sided. GIFT OF BOOKS.—Miss Jones, late of Pier House, and an old visitor to Aberdovey, has kindly presented the Institute library with the following three valuable works Leaves from the Journal of our Life in the Highlands," Thiers' French Revolution," and "Lady Betty's Governess." VOTES OF SYMPATHY.—At the meeting on Fri- day evening, .the Institute Committee passed votes of sympathy to be sent to two of its oldest members, viz, Messrs W. J. Hughes and J. Edwards. Both have been members from the beginning and have held all the offices in con- nection with the Committee. The former is nearly convalescent, but Mr Edwards continues in poor health. AFTER TWENTY YEARS.—On Tuesday after- noon a son of Mr B. Marcroft, Birkenhead, one of the founders of the Aberdovey Literary In- stitute and its first treasurer, paid a visit to the rooms and showed his father's first membership card, dated December 1st, 1882, and signed by W. Davies, H.M.C., the first secretary. The son, who is now camping with the Cheshire Volun- teers near Towyn, said he came to see the rooms at the special request of his father, who would be highly pleased to hear of the flourishing con- dition of the Institution. Mr Marcroft at the time was the manager of the now defunct Aber- dovey Export and Import Company, and left Aberdovey the following year and has not visited the town since. The first great anniversary meeting in connection with the Institution was held at Mr Marcroft's house, November 29th, 1882, when there were present Dr Grosholz in the chair, Messrs Marcroft, E Jones, Clegg, and W. Davies. It was that evening resolved That a literary institute be founded in Aberdovey to be called the Aberdovey Literary Institute." It is an interesting reminiscence for this card to turn up after twenty years I Mr Marcroft was succeeded by Mr J. Robertson and he also took a deep interest in the Institution. LITERARY INSTITUTE.—The monthly meeting of this Institution was held on Friday evening, when Capt Edwards presided pro tem. There were also present Capt Evans, Messrs J W Morgan, W D Evans, Robert Griffith, W Jones, Gwilym Williams, and W J. Eves, secretaries. The minutes of the last meeting were read by the senior Secretary and confirmed. The Book Com- mittee presented a list of English books for the Library, which was accepted in toto, and the Librarian was instructed to procure the books in time for the coming season. The list of Welsh books was not presented by the sub-committee appointed to do the work, and it was resolved that the list be accepted when presented to the librarians. A vote of thanks was passed to Miss Jones, late of Pier House, foi her gift of three valuable books to the Library. On the motion of the Chairman, it was resolved to paint the battery, fiagstaffs, posts, and railings in the outer yard. Votes of sympathy were passed to be sent to Mr W Jones Hughes and Mr John Edwards, two members of the Committee, in their ill- ness. WKSLEYAN SUNDAY SCHOOL FESTIVAL, The Wesleyan Sunday schools comprised in the Towyn circuit held their annual festival at this place on Whit-Monday and there was a large attendance. The Rev Tecwyn Evans, B.A., presided at the morning meeting, when prizes were awarded to the winners in the various competitions and several tunes were rendered by the juveniles. Mr D. Griffith, Penrhyndeudraeth, delivered an excellent address. In the afternoon, Mr D. Griffith, Abpr- gynolwyn, presided and the programme consisted chiefly of reading the results of the written examinations and the distribution of the certificates to the various schools. In the evening, the Rev P. Jones presided and the meeting was devoted to singing congregational hymn-tunes. Mr John Lloyd, Towyn, conducted and Miss Jones, Towyn, and Miss S. Davies, Aberdovey, presided at the harmonium. C.M. SUNDAY SCHOOLS.—The Calvinistic Method- I ist Sunday schools of the Towyn district held their annual meetings at the Tabernacle Chapel on Whit-Monday. In the morning, Mr Humphrey Jones, Nantymynach, presided, in the absence of Mr W. Jones Hughes, Aberdovey, through illness. The elder scholars were catechised by the Rev R. R. Williams, M.A., Towyn, and addresses were given by the Rev T. R. Jones, Towyn, and Mr R. Roberts, Llanegryn. The Rev R R Williams.M. A., presided over the afternoon meeting. The children were catechisad by Mr T. Jones, County School, Towyn, and prizes were awarded to the winners in the numerous competitions and the results of the written examinations ot the junior classes were read. Several hymn-tunes and a chant were rendered during the meeting. In the evening, the Rev T. R. Jones, Towyn, presided. The middle classes were catechised in the History of Elijah by the Rev P. James, Llanegryn, and prizes were awarded to winners in competitions, etc., and certificates were distributed to the various schools. Several hymn-tunes were rendered during the meeting and the anthem, Fel y brefa yr Hydd." The sing ng was conducted by Mr Ffestin Williams, Board School, Aberdovey, and Miss M. Richards, Aberdovey, presided at the harmonium.

MERIONETH COUNfY COTJJNCIL YESTERDAY'S MEETING: THE BUDGET. The quarterly meeting of the Merioneth County Couucil was held yesterday (Thursday), at Dol gelley, Councillor Morris Thomas presiding. There were also present-Aldermen W Hughes and John Jones, Dolgelley Evan Jones and Roger Hughes, Bala Wm Jones, Talsarnau Lewis Lewis, Bar- mouth Andreas Roberts and W P Evans, Fes- tiniog HJHaydn Jones, Towyn and A Osmond Williams, M.P. Councillors W Foulkes Jones, W Ednyfed Williams, Robert Evans, Thomas Jones, Corwen John Parry, Robert E Roberts, Bala R Williams, Argoed J Meyrick Jones, Dol gelley John Roberts, Owen Jones, Dolgelley G Price, Llanfachreth John Evans, Barmouth John Davies, Dyffryn E H Davies, Brynderwen E Parry Jones, Robert Roberts, J Parry Jones, J Lloyd Jones,D G Jones,D G Williams, Humphrey Roberts, Festiniog Moses Kellow, Llanfrothen John Joies, M R Morris, Trawsfynydd R G Pritchard, Penrhyndeudraeth E R Evans, Tal- sarnau Robert Richards, Pensarn J Maethlon James, Towyn W Jones, Aberdovey Messrs Robrrt Jones, clerk D Breeze, assistant clerk J M Jones, surveyor C Vaughton, agent E J Evans, inspector Major Best, and Supt Jones. REPORTS. The County Analyst, in his report, stated that a sample of milk submitted to him contained four times as much fat as ordinary milk. The CHIEF CONSTABLE said it was the first time he had heard of that, but he would make inquiries to see whether it was a police case. The CHAIRMAN thought it should be made known to the credit of the vendor. The CHIEF CONSTABLE added that a prosecution had been successfully instituted at Dyffryn against a milk vendor. Dr JOHN JONEs-And they have had more cream now a Dyffryn since the prosecution. The Inspector of Weights and Measures re- ported an increase in the number of instruments inspected. A large number of instruments of modern type had been introduced to the rural districts. The reports were adopted. £ MAIN ROADS COMMITTEE. The Main Roads Committee recommended that upon pioper contracts with the County Council being entered into, the quarterly payments to the various urban councils should be made. Among other re- commendations were that the road leading from Rhos- lefain to the Tonfanau Railway Station should not be taken over. The County Agent should be directed to have a protecting wall erected on the side of Cader road at a dangerous place adjoining Gellilwyd- plantation. The application made to the Local Government Board for permission to sell Ffriddygoal, Dolgelley, should be withdrawn. The sum of X28 should be contributed to the Towyn Council towards the cost of re-building that part of the seawall on the side of the main road at Aberdovey recently washed away. The County Treasurer should be authorised to draw during the quarter a sum not exceeding £ 5C to meet wages of workmen employed in repairing county bridge., zig.5 to Messrs Davies Bros., Bar mouth, and also between the end of June and the next Council meeting, Z500 to pay Messrs Davies Bros. what was due to them under the contract. The draft agreement between che Cambrian Railway Companies and the Council with reference to a drain under the railway near Harlech Station was recom- mended for approval. The footpaths and kerbs in Corwen should be repaired were necessary, the report of the County Agent and Surveyor adopted, and it was further recommended that the question of erect- ing bridges in the Hirnant Valley should be adjourn- ed that an exper should be employed to inspect the present state of P otypandy Bridge, Llanuwchllyn, and that the ques^on of erecting bridges over the Shervel and Rhiwlach should be deferred. The report having been adopted, Councillor E R EVANS called attention to tli- state of the road which had not been rolled at Talsarnau. He had ben told that the roller had passed through with- out any instructions to do the work. In its pre- sent state, the road was a regular nuisance and ought to be rolled by all means. The COUNTY AGENT implied that it had not been specified to be rolled. Councillor EVANS thought such a thick layer of stones ought not to have been put on the road unless it was to be rolled, and if small stones had been placed instead it would be better. The' farmers complained as well as other people who travelled over the road daily. The COUNTY AGENT said that he could not do the work without instructions from the Committee. A thin layer of stones would have been useless, be- cause the road wan boggy. Councillor EVANS admitted that the place was boggy, but somethiug ought to be done there. In reply to Councillor Robert Roberts, he stated that the stones had been there all Through the winter. Alderman WM. JONES concurred with the com- plaint. He thought that an excessive quantity of stones hrSld been put there. If that had not been done, the road would be in a good condition at present. Alderman Jones proceeded to speak about arrangements that had been made to confer with the County Agent. Councillor ROBBRT ROBERTS said there had been some misunderstanding and, eventually, Alderman LEWIS LEWIS proposed that the road should he rolled. 1 Councillor KELLOW asked if there would be any extra charge ? Councillor ROBERTS replied that provision was made in the contract for extra work, and Alder- man HAYDN JONES further explained the position. He said th-re seemed to be a considerable misap- prehension among the members as to the mainten- ance of main roads. It should be clearly under, stood that if orders were fgiven for extra rolling the Council would have to.be prepared to pay extra to the contractors Under the present system, a far greater length of roads had been rolled than under the old dispensation, and it was intended to bring the roads of the county into a creditable condition. But if the Council had extra rolling, they would naturally have to face higher rates. They could not be expected to reach perfection at once. There were marked improvements in the roads already, and they would have a thorough improvement gradually. The contractors had exceeded by three times what they were asked to provide, and the Council had reason to be grateful to them. Alderman ANDREAS ROBERTS then proposed an amendment that the question should he referred to the Main Roads Committee. Councillor ROBERT ROBERTS—We shall not meet again for another three months. Alderman HAYDN JONES thought that if repre- sentations were made by the County Agent to the contractors, Messrs Davies Bros, Barmouth, he had no doubt that they would take the matter up with their usual courtesy. Alderman ROBERTS having withdrawn his amend- ment, the motion was agreed to. HARLECH DRAIN. In reply to Councillor Robert Richards; the COUNTY AGENT stated that the Council had just passed to commence the proposed drain at Harlech. PRINTED REPORTS. On the suggestion of Councillor EDNYFED WILLIAMS, it Was decided to refer the question of printing the reports of the County Agent and County Surveyor to the Main Roads Committee. THE BUDGET. Bsfore proposing the adoption of the Finance Committee's report, Alderman Haydn Jones gave an account of the position of the county funds. The liability on accouotof the Asylum was £7,120 2s 9d. Blaenau Festiniog police station, £ 2,300 11 3d, less repayment of R,128 O. 9d, leaving a total liability otE9,292 3s 3d. The police pension fund capital account amounted to F.1,026 4s Id, and on the revenue account there was in hand 9373 lls 9d, and an expenditure of 2233 lis. The general balance sheet showed that the balance in haod was £4.576 2s 4d, whilo the rates produced £2,318 17. 9d treasury grant, £2,163 13, 4d police fee., traction engin* licences, and sundries, £9,213 Os Id. After the payment of other accounts amonnting to 27,175 lls3d, there was a balance in hand on May 15th of 92,037 4s 8d.—In their report, the Finance Committee recommended payment of bills amount- ing to £ 4,795 198 7d. The Committee also recom- mended that all grants already received and to be received by the County Treasurer in respect of taxation should be transferred from the county fund to the credit of the County Governing Body under the county intermediate scheme as ani when received that a rate of sixpence half-penny in the pound be made, assessed and levied for general county purposes for the half-year ending March 31st, 1904, and a rate of one penny in the pound to defray the costs of technical instruction for the ensuing year and a rate of tenpence in the pound to meet the requirements of the Education Act for the half-year ending March 31st, 1904 that 9465 18s 6d, being the proceeds of a rate of id in the pound ordered to be levied for intermediate education at the Council meeting held in March last, be transferred from the county fund to the credit of the County Governing Body that f 103 8s Id, being the difference between the amount pro- duced by id rate in the pound under the temporary basis of the Agricultural Rates Act and the amount which it would have produced if levied under the former county rate basis, be transferred from the county fund to the credit of the County Govern- ing Body. The accounts of the Dovey, Mawddach, and Glaulyn Board of Conservators for the past year were audited and allowed. The re- commendations of the County Governing Body as to the application of the rate of Id in the pound should be adopted.—Alderman Jones then proceeded to review last year's financial position, and said there was a balance in hand of £ 2,768. Tho rates produced £9,784; and the estimated receipts were R10,529, a total of 923,081. The actual total receipts amounted, however, to £23,510, or E429 more than the estimate. The estimated expendi- ture was 921,598, while it actually amounted to £ 22,897, or 91,299 more than the estimate, Alder- man Jones explained why the estimate had been exceeded and mentioned among other items that the Treasury grant had been increased, while various items of expenditure were more than estimated for. So much for the past year. With the assistance of the County Treasurer, he had gone into the figures for the coming year as closely as possible and had left less margin than ever before. The budget included payment to unions, 93,300 police pay, 93,900; main roads, £ 7,800; salaries and pensions, 91,9"0 higher education, E2,924, and together with miscellaneous and other items, totalled £ 24,496. Last year's budget totalled E23,098 and showed an increrse in this year's ex- penditure of £ 1,398, How was the budget to be met ? There was a balanco in hand of R613 (as compared with 22,768 last year), and Treasury grant was estimated at £ 11,351. It was expected that the 91,042 advance from revenue to the asylum would be refunded from loan during the year. At the last Council meeting the Clerk and he (the speaker) had been authorised to make arrangements in regard to the loan. They con- sulted with a firm of financial agents in London, but it also happened, strangely enough, that the firm were acting on behalf of the Carnarvon- shire County Council. It transpired that the Prudential Assurance Company were advised that County Councils had no power to borrow forasy lum purposes, and in the case of Carnarvonshire the firm could not carry the loai, into effect. As soon as the Clerk of the Merioneth Council heard of this, he communicated with the solicitor of the Prudential Company pointing out that their case was on all fours with Carnarvonshire and asking whether Merioneth was to be treated in the same way. The result was that the Uleric received a reply that the firm were not prepared to proceed with the loan. Nevertheless, the Council were bound to have the loan as they were in arrears in connection with the Asylum. It was then that he (the speaker) found a friend in need in Mr Osmond Williams, who laid the matter before Sir Francis Mowatt of the Treasury, and was promised that it would be fully considered. (Hear, hear.) The Clerk had ex- plained the state of affairs to Sir Francis Mowat, setting forth the Council's difficulties and urging upon the Treasury the desir- ability of considering whether lunacy was not to be encouraged in the matter of loans. (Cheers.) He was not without hope that at last they would have the loan from the Public Works Loans Com- missioners, where it ought to have come from at first, and that they would have it on more reason- able terms than they had expected. (Hear, hear.) Proceeding, Alderman Jones stated that the total estimated expenditure was;C24,496 and the revenue would be f,12,393, which meant a deficiency of £ 12,103. It would, therefore, be necessary to levy a rate of Is Id in the pound, which would produce C12,114 for general county purposes. He had met with considerable difficulty in preparing the estimate for educational purposes, as this wa.s the first year for the Education Authority. The Finance Committee had proceeded on the assump- tion that the voluntary and board schools would be taken over, but it was for the Couuci to decide whether they would be taken over or not, and, if necessary, to reduce the estimate. As the estimate was only required for the half-year, he had calculated on the assumption that Jhalf of the expeIJditure for the precding year would be sufficient. The School Board expenditure for last year was £ 23,821 8< 4d, and the unprovided schools E5,159 lis 10,1, but that included £558 3s 5d on account of the overdrafts which would not be met with again, The total expenditure was £ 28,422 16s 9d, and the estimate would be 914,211 8s 5d. This again would be slightly incorrect as the Education Authority was hound to relieve certain localities on account of loans. The Committee felt that the Council should relieve these localities to the ex- tent of the maximum relief allowed by the Act, and the total amount, consequently, required would be 1;13,422 Is 9d for both voluotary ami board schools. How would that be jmet ? In ad- dition to a moiety from .the new aid grant, there would ba fee grants and a grant from the agricul- tural rate, so that the net amount required to be provided was' £ 9,208 6s 9d. To meet that, h,- proposed to levy a rate of 10A in the pound which would bring in £ 9,318. Alderman EVAN JONES thought that the un- provided schools would receive something extra from the Government and did not approve of their being supported out of the rates. (Hear, hear.) Alderman HAYDN JONES replied that if it was intended to limit the payment to the provided schools, it would be necessary to transfer the grant and not to levy the full tenpenoe rate. He had taken into consideration the expenditure for last year and it was for the Council to decide whether they would support the school out of the rates or otherwise. Alderman EVAN JONES then proposed that the Council should not provide any money from the rates towards unprovided schools. Councillor R. EVANS seconded the motion and said he felt it was unwise to pass the estimate before the scheme was passed. Mr OSMOND WILLIAMS suggested that the esti- mate should be passed, with the exception of the portion referring to the schools. Alderman HAYDN JONES said the Council would I not then provide for the board schools, His per- sonal opinion was that the Council should make some arrangement in regard to the unprovided schools, so that the paying authority should have some control over the management. (Hear, hear.) It was ridiculous that they should have to maintain schools and not manage them. If the Council 1 I.L! I. & tnougnt io rignc to suspend a part of the estimate, then it should be understood that it could be re- vised in September. Alderman W P E, ANS said it would be unwise for the Council to levy the rate before receiving the report of the Commfttee, for they should see what would be done with the schools and he proposed that the item should be eliminated in order to know from the report of the Provisional Committee what negotiations had been carried on between them and the managers of the unprovided schools. This was agreed to. Mr OSMOND WILLIAMS congratulated the county on what had been passed. (Hear, hear.) The eyes of the whole cf Wales had been on M6rionethshire and he believed that all other county councils would do exactly the same. (Cheers.) Alderman HAYDN JONES then suggested that the rate of 4d in the pound under the Education Act should be reduced to 2Jd. Alderman W. P. EVANS seconded the motion and it was agreed to. The Committee's report was then adopted. Councillor JOHN EVANS asked why the claim from the Barmouth Council in regard to the medical officer and inspector of nuisances had not been recommended for payment ? The CLERJt replied that they had not complied in sending him the vouchers when asked for. LLANABER PARISH. The CLERK presented the report of the sub-com- mittee appointed to enquire into the desirability of dividing the parish of Llanaber. Only seven per- sons attended the inquiry and after hearing the evidence the Sub-Committee came to the decision not to divide the parish and that it should be left as at present. Councillor JOHN DAVIES stated that the Council should not have entertained an application when there was not sufficient reasons for holding an inquiry. The report was adoptad, THE WELSH MUSEUM. The Chairman and Mr Osmond Williams were appointed to represent the Council on the deputa- tion to the Government in support of the memorial for a grant for the proposed Welsh museum, SOUND HORSES. A resolution from the Lindsey County Council in favour of legislation for securing an adequate supply of sound horses was adopted. EDUCATION SCHEME. Alderman W P Evans submitted a draft scheme for the establishment of the Education Committee. The Committee recommended that as soon as may be after the date of approval by the Board of Education of the scheme there shall be established a committee of the County Council. The Com- mittee shall, whpn complete, consist of thirty-six members, including persons of experience in edu- cation and persons acquainted with the needs of the various kinds of schools in the county. Twenty-seven of the members of the Education Committee shall be members of the County Council and appointed so as to secure so far as possible the adequate representation of all parts of the county and of agricultural, commercial and gin- dustrial education, having special regard to the industries of the county. The nine selected mem- bers shall be appointed by the County Council as follows:—Two members representing elementary education (of whom one shall be a woman), one mem. ber repreeenting secondary education, one member representing university education, five members (of whom two shall be women) representing technical education. The members of Ithe first Education Committee appointed under the scheme shall hold office until the next day of retirement of the county councillors and afterward the term of office shall be three years. Any of the specified twenty- seven members of the County Council shall cease to be members of the Committee if they cease to be members of the Council, but no person shall be disqualified faom being a selected member by reason of becoming a member of the Council. Casual vacancies shall be filled only:for the re- mainder of the terms for which the retiring mem- ber was appointed to serve. From the date of the Scheme, the county governing body shall cease to exist, and all powers, duties, property and liabili- ties of that body shall be transferred to the Council. All matters relating to the exercise of the powers transferred shall stand referred to the committee as if they were matters relating to the exercise by the County Council of their powers under the Act, and the Council may delegate to the committee, with or without restriction or conditians, any of their powers. Until the contrary is proved the com- mittee shall be deemed to have been duly con- stituted, and to have power to deal with any matters referred to in their minutes. The com mittee may if ithey think fit, with the consent of the Coumty Council, delegate any of the powers and duties from time to time delegated to them by the Council to a joint board composed of represen- tativealof Welsh County Councils. The date of the scheme ahall:be the ;,day on which it is approved by the Board of Fdncation. Aderman EVANS stated that it had been in- tended to hold a special meeting for the considera- tion of the scheme, but the Committee felt that it would then he left too late in view of the approach- ing appointed day. With regard to the scheme he said it contained as little as possible the entire authority had been left to the Council. There was nothing in the scheme only what was necessary to be included. Referring to the draft model scheme prepared for Wales, he said that only the principle of it had been included. The Committee had fallen in with the national movement in Wales in regard to the establ ishment of education com- mittees. He formally moved the adoption of the scheme and that it should be submitted for the ap proval of the Board of Education. Councillor MEYRICK JONES seconded the motion. Alderman ANDREAS ROBERTS thought that the number of the Committee should be left open, but after an explanation, he withdrew his suggestion and saidhe would like to have an explanation as to the adequate representstion of every part of the county. Alderman W. P. EVANS replied that all the members of theCcommittee would not be irom Btaenau Festiniog—(laughter)—but every part of the county would be represented. Dr JOHN JONES thought the Education Com- mittee should have the power to delegate their rights to the Joint Board for Wales. He did not wish to disparage the CenLral Welsh Board, but it was at present entirely governed by Sonth Wales. Councillor R. EVANS proposed that local bodies should appoint or nominate their own representa- tives. Councillor MEYRICK JONES seconded the motion. Councillor D. G. JONES thought it would be better if the Council communicated with the local bodies. Mr OSMOND WILLIAMS informed the Council that the feeling was strong against that at the Llan- the feeling was strong against that at the Llan- drindod conference. If the Council allowed local bodies to appoint their representatives, they would be tied to those nominations or appointments. Afderman W P EVANS referred to the Act and said it allowed three ways of constituting the Committee. The amendment was then withdrawn. Councillor HUMPHREY ROBERTS complained of the small number constituting the Committee. Alderman W P EVANS explained that the County Governing Body was composed cf twenty-five members and as there were more schools to be managed, it was advisable to increase the Educa- tion Committee correspondently. Councillor ROBERTS proposed that the Com- mittee should consist of forty members with ten from outside. Councillor E R EVANS supported the proposition and said that the proposed Committee was not a direct representation of the county. Many of the rural districts would not be represented and their requirements were not generally known. Councillor R EVANS pointed out that the pro. posal committee was for the whole county and there would be local managers. Perhaps it woul-I be better if there were only twenty on the Com- mittee. Councillor ROBERTS was not satisfied and pressed his amendment. When put to the meeting, only three voted for it and it was lost. Mr OSMOND WILLIAMS said he had submitted the scheme to several educattonal experts and to the Welsh members and it was regarded as an excellent one. (Cheers.) The motion was then put to the meeting and the scheme was approved of unanimously.

TREGARON. HARVEST IMPLEMENLS.—M Davies & Co., Ccro- nation Stores, have purchused a large quantity of harvest implements at the recent Bath and West of England show which which was held at Bristol. LECTURE.—This (Friday) evening, the Rev. John Myfenydd Morgan, vicar of St. Dogmaels, near Car- digan, will deliver his popular lecture entitled An hour with the Welsh Poets," in the Town Board School. The proceeds are to be devoted towards liquidating the debts of the Reading Room. Mr Morgan is a Tregaionian by birth, being the youngest son of the late Mr Morgan Morgans (Penygraig), the highly respected old schoolmaster of fifty years ago.

CALIDIG IN. CHIEF JSTICK OF CALCUTTA.-Sir Lawrence H Jenkins, chief justice of Calcutta, is on a visit to his hom-, accoinpsnied oy Lady Jenkins, and are the guests of Colonel and Mrs Picton Erans (Sir Lawrence's sister), at Treforgan. Sir Lawrence was born and brought up at Cardigan and his seat, Cilbronfiu, is about two miles out of town, where he intends to reside a'ter retirrnient. VOLUNTEERS Capt R W Picton Evans is proud of hi- company of Volunte- rs, and the more so, no doubt, after the compliment paid them by Capt Ronaldaon, the new adjutant of the b .t,talion. who, on Friday week, put the men through a num- ber of mov-m-ntp aud expressed himself as highly pleased. Six of the company went for a week's II training at Porthcawl Camp on S,tur(lay, and the remainder intend going to Salisbury Plain Camp in July. THE CHURCHYARD IMPROVEMENT.—The Vicar having obtained a faculty for th s purpose, appeals to all who have gravea in the churchyard to rectify the same, as all stones in dilapidated con(itio. -] LI anu tnoae tyno nave DO claimant, will be hid flat. Great improvements, by way of beautifying "God's- acre," will be carried out. Tuii RKV J OSSIAN DAVIES.—This gentleman's testimonial, brought about by his enforced retire- ment from the ministry through ill-health, now amounts to nearly £ 1,0 '0. LIGHTING OF ST. DUGMELL'S.—Thia contentious matter is still a -(,urce of agitation at this village. After the vote of four to one in favour of placing the public lamp, on the rates, taken at a public meeting on Friday week, a poll was demanded, and the same will be taken on Friday, the 5th June. So antagonistic are the farmers and others who reside out-He he vill*gij, that they prefer incurring an xpeuse tantamount to a season's lighting by challenging a poll.

CARDIGAJN R.G.A. MILITIA. HARD TRAINING IN DEVONSHIRE. Cardigan R.G.A. Militia, which assembled at Maker (Plymouth) on Aprd 28th for a fourteen days' course of gunnery instruction prior to the annual training, has shown a marked im- provement both in drill and marksmanship, and it has now reached a high state of efficiency. Contrary to the custom which has hitherto pre- vailed, the battalion did not assemble at their headquarters at Aberystwyth. The mobilisation took place on the training ground, the men proceeding there direct. At the first asssem- bly in April, the numbers, including the per- manent staff, reached 250. The opening fort- night of the instruction was cold, wet, and cheerless, and it says much for the physique of the men that the numbers in hospital were comparatively few. The officers who joined the regiment at the opening of the training were Captain and Hon Major J. Barry Taunton, Captain and Hon. Major E. W. D. Davies, Captain and Adjutant, W. McGildowny, a regular officer well known in the Plymouth Garrison, and an enthusiastic yachtsman, Captain and Quarter- master W. Stephens, Lieutenant and Instructor of Artillery T. H. Berryman, and Lieut. H. G. Robertson. The remainder of the regiment as- sembled at Maker on the 11th May, and the officers joining them were the commanding officer (Col. T. Lloyd, C.B.), Lieut.-Colonel G. S. Jones (second in command), Captain and Hon. Major E. C. Rogerson, Captain J. Lloyd Hughes, Lieutenants M. H. Cazalet, H. F. Dawes, J. D. Owen, A. P. Hamilton, and Sir Wm. Wiseman, Bart, and Capt M. B. Jobson, Cork R.G.A. (attached). About 250 non-commissioned officers and men also joined at the same time. Lieut. W. H. Cazalet has been promoted to captain since his arrival in camp. The regiment is now about 510 strong, including the permanent staff, the strength purely militia being 485, which is just 91 under the establishment. This high figure is ex- tremely satisfactory considering the general state of recruiting, and is a tribute to the popularity of the regiment and also to the officers and per- manent staff, of whom Sergt-major R H Guilbert is regimental sergeant-major. Quartermaster- sergeant G. Farrow is in charge of the orderly room. The change of station for the annual training. has been greatly appreciated by all ranks, a large majority of non-commissioned officers and men never having visited this part of the country be- fore. The beautiful view which Maker affords of the Three Towns and the surrounding country has given them much pleasure and they are highly delighted with the splendid weather with which they have lately been favoured. The general health of the camp is very good and the men have conducted themselves very well in- deed. Up to the present, the regiment has been subject to a rigorous training, drills at Whitsand and Penlee entailing a good long march. The presence of the regimental band has, however, tended to considerably relieve the hardship of these marches. Raleigh Battery have also pro- vided a drilling ground, and during last week a night training took place.

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