The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

ABERYSTWYTH BANKR TPTCY COURT, Friday, April 2nd.—Before Joseph Da-vies, Esq., regi- strar Herbert W. Thomas, Esq., official receiver. Ra David Morgan.—David Morgan, Moiddiruaeb, Llanarth came wp for ex- amination. His liabilities £ 396 4s 8d and his deficiency £3óO. He attributed his failure to death of animals, bad har- vests, ill health, and pressure by a creditor for a ddot not his own. The Official Re- ceiver's observations were that the bank- rupt, who was fifty-six years of age, com- menced farming at Moyddinfach, Llanarth, in September, 1886, when he had stock given him by his fath?r and father-in-law valued at £100. The farm is 180 acres, mainly moorland and mountain, and is held on a yearly tenancy of £60 per annum. A distress for one year's rent due in September in respect of two-thirds share of the farm was levied on the 6th March and an execution for JE52 6s 9d was levied on the same day by the High Bailiff of Aberayron County Court. Notice of <me year's rent in nv-neet of the remaining one-third share of the farm was subse- quently given to the High Bailiff and distress levied on the llth. A sale was held on the 15th under the execution when the stock, implements, and furniture was sold in one lot to a local auctioneer for £132 18s Id. The liabihtv shown as con- tingent is in respect of a joint promissory not signed by bankrupt as surety for his eon. Bankrupt alleged that the note was signed by him under pressure. He de- fended the action and judgment was given in his favour, but was reversed on appeal to the Divisional Court. The unsecured lia- bilities were for money borrowed from four relatives, £142 18s, and purchases at sales, goods bought, etc., £ 201.—Mr Denham Evans (Messrs Smith, Davies. and Evans) appeared for Mr Powell, Aberayron, a creditor.—Bankrupt, in reply to the Offi- cial Receiver, said he was married and had seven children ranging in age from twenty-seven to fifteen. Five children were at home. Married before he went to Moiddinfach twenty-two years ago. The farm was of 192 acres. The rent had been JB65, but was now JE60. He had no eapital when he started, but about 150 head of cattle given him by his father and father-in-law. Before going to Moiddin- fach worked for his father at Trial without wages on the farm. Asked what losses in animals he had sustained, debtor said lie had lost a. cow, two yearling heifers, pig, and Sheep during the last twelve months. Corn rotted in the cocks in September and October, and seed in the ground in the springtime.—The Official Receiver said no doubt last October and September were wet months.—Examined a-s to the other cause of failure—pressure bv creditor for a debt not debtor's own—debtor said his son who was a carpenter took a house con- tract at CSvrtnewydd and went to Mr. Powell, of Aberayron, for timber. Mr. Powell and the Bailiff afterward visited him (debtor) and told him that unless he signed Sor the son's debts they would take his anmais away.—The Registrar said the dlebtor way subsequently served with a writ to recover the amount of the note given on behalf of the son and the case was heard at Lampeter County Court. The debtor defended it and succeeded on the ground of no consideration, but subsequently he lost on appeal.—The Official R ceiver said | the total amount in respect of that affair was JS52 16s 9d.—-In repfy to further ques- tions, debtor said he grazed sheen on track for T Jones, Cenarth, in exchange for a suit of clothes a vear and grazed a illy in exchange for the service of two I brood maree. Examined as to £152 stated to have been borrowed, debtor said lie bor- rowed from Evan Jones, to pay rent, Ann Jones, sister, Trial. JB57 18s to oay Thomas Jones, Cwrtnewydd, for goods Thought at shop and sale; Jenkin Morgan, father, £40 to pay rent, cattle having died; T Morgan, son, farm servant at Ffyonon-meredith, £30, borrowed in two sums to pay rent: and Elizabeth Morgan, daughter, Bryneglwvs, £10 to buy a cow. He gave a note to Thomas Jones, but the others had no acknowledgment. Jenkin Morgan paid JB40 in hard cash and not by cheque. Examined as to when ho know he was insolvent, debtor thought if he were given time he thought he was solvent up to the time of the executions; but afterward ad- mitted that he knew it some time before. —Mr Denham Evans asked debtor if it was not absolutely denied in Court that pressure had been put on him to sign the- note as surety for the son. Debtor would not admit it at first, but afterward said the Bailiff denied that pressure had been put on him (debtor). IL- had not paid the taT'd in the net ion and had not received t oosrs from Mr Powell when he .succeeded in the County Court case. H did not know that Mr Powell had paid into Lampr-tT County Court £]1 9s ICkl or that when Mr Evans asked Mr Watkins for the return of coste on the appeal succeeding, Mr Wa-tkins replied that he had paid over the money to dehor. He. had not received a half nenuy from Mr Wat-kins and had not paid Mr Watkins his costs.—The Official Receiver, on Mr Den- ham Evans proceeding to the loans, said he would no doubt gr-t the claimants for loans without acknowledgment to with- draw. If they did not h" should reject the claims and they would have to prove before the Judge.—In reply to Mr Dpn- ham Evans as to farming stock, debtor denied that he sent a hors and Sour or five heifers awav from the farm as soon as the result of the appeal was known. Mr Wat-kins held four calves and a filly as security for costs in appeal. They were taken to Trial and he had not sold them as Mr "YYatkins claimed them. Be TOuld not say what their value was. He had allowed no one ds." to take things. Mr Evans asking whether debtor was still 4 not tenant of the farm, the Official Re- ceiver explained that in order to sxvthe estate, he had disclaimed responsibility for the rent after September and had told the debtor to make the best arrangements Jie could pending bankruptcy preee (rngs. examination being ended, the Offi- cial Receiver referring to the fact that ) debtor had made his first train ride in going to see him at Carmarthen in con- nection with the bankruptcy, said the examination might be closed and if any- thing occurred he would know where to find debtor. He did not want to bring him into the train too often. (Lancrhter.) -The Registrar (assenting) said if debtor went again it would only be his second train ride m his lifetime. R8 Owen Williams. Aberdovoy.—Owen Williams, 7, Brynhvfryd, Aberdovey, grooer, carrying on business at Caprera Mediae, also came up for examination. His liabilities included thirty unsecured cre- ditors at £88 9s 6d and £30 contingent, his gross liabilities being £125 18s 9d. His assets, including stock-in-trade, £22, were estimated at £31 5s 4d and the deficiency :B94 138 5d. Causes of failure were stated as want of capital, loss on fruit, and bad trade. TIlP Official Receiver's observa- tions were: The receiving order was made on the 11th March on the debtor's own petition, which he filed in consequence 11 an execution having been levied on his effects. He was adjudged bankrupt the lame day on his own application. The bankrupt, aged twenty-nine, states that he commenced business as a grocer at Aber- dovey in July, 1907, without capital. In October, 1908, the bankrupt paid a com- gosition of 5s in the pound to his creditors, He states that his liabilities at that time amounted to £150, With the exception of a day book, the bankrupt had kept no books of account. The liability shown as contingent is in respect of money borrowed from a local bank on a promissory note signed by the bankrupt and six sureties. The unsecured liabilities are for money borrowed from two friends JE9, medical expanses £3 13s lOd, and goods purchased for the business, (.-te., £75 16s 6d. The whole of the household furniture, of the estimated value of £13 5s 6d, is claimed by the bankrupt's wife as her own separate prooertv, part having been given to her by her parents, and the remainder pur- chased with her own money.—Debtor, for whom Mr Meredith Roberts, Machynlleth, appeared, said since the receiving order he had been working as a labourer. He wiw in business at Caprera House from July, 1907, and prior to that he was a grocer's assistant at Llandudno. He was married and had three children. He had no capital whatever when commencing business or on marrying. His wife had a little, but did not know how much. He received £3 from her mother to commence business. His wife bought furniture with her money. Ho thought he should get on at Aberodvey, and trusted in Providence to do without capital. He knew Aber- clovey, having worked there before. He lost a good deal on fruit. Over-ripe strawberries had to be thrown away over the quay and fruit coming on Saturday night was no good on Monday morning. Trade was quiet and debts bad." Took £4. or £5 a week on which he made a profit of about £1 a week. He drew £1 a week for livino- and as the expenditure was more than° that, writs were issued for the 'deficit. Asked why he bad not kept proper books, he said he only kept a. day- book in which he did not enter his receipts and did not show the position of his affairs. Fifteen months after commencing business made a composition of 5s. in the pound. His liabilities were then £ 150 and assets £ 30. He did not pay the 5s. in the pound. Six people went to the bank as surety for 30 an(f he had not paid that amount back. Une of the old creditors was in the present liabilities.—Th? Official Receiver said the debtor had put in an account showing that he received £39 including JE6 he had borrowed from Canon Rowlands and paid JB108 13s. 5d. (including JS1 a week drawn for living). Would the difference— £ 69 12s 5d represent money that had been taken over the. counter P-bebtor admitted that that was so. He added that £30 had been borrowed from the N.P. Bank to pay the composition to which he added JE10. The £40.was given to Mr. John Lloyd to pay the creditors and Mr Lloyd had supplied an account showing five guineas retained for his fees. He did not agree to pay that amount for fees and thought that B40 was to go in payment of the composition. His wife claimed the furniture a,s having been bought by her own money before marriage. —The Official Receiver said he had re- ceived information and pressed debtor to tell him the truth as to whether he had not bought some of the furniture and de- fendant admitted a few things.—The Official Receiver warned defendant and advised him to supply a list of everything he had bought before the next court and if that were done he need not attend a further examination. It was rath°r an unsatisfactory case. A man in business since 1907 onlv and already made one com- position in wliich he settled about JB120 worth of debts for £30 and still had a deficiency of JS94. The Court was adjournsd to the 30th April. RURAL COUNCIL, Monday, April 5th.— Present: Messrs. Joseph Parry, Troed- rhiwlwba, chairman; William Mason, Llancynfelin, vice-chairman: the Rev. John Davies, Talybont; Messrs. W. Sin- nett Jones, Llanrhystyd; J. Pugli Lewis, Parcel Canol; John Richards, David James, Trefeirig; E. J. Evans, Llangwvryfon John Bonner, Llanafan Richard Thomas, Tirmynach John Roberts, Uchayndre David Jones, Llan- badarn Lower- John Davies, Llanfi- hangel Lower E. J. Williams, Ceulana- maesmawr; W. T. Lewis. William Jones. Cyfoethybrenin; LI. J. Lewis, Lewis Richards, Cwmrheidol; Thomas James, Cynnullmawr; John Morris, Henllys; T. Oliver Jones. Thomas Jones, Llanfi- hangel Upper: John Jones, Vaenor Lower; Hugh Hughes, clerk; E. Llew- ellin, assistant clerk; James Hughes, inspector; and the road surveyors. New Bridges. The Parish Council wrote applying for a new bridge instead of the wooden foot- bridge over the river Melindwr, leading to Troedrhiwcastell.—The Rev. John Davies said it was decided at the previous meet- ing to repair the present footbridge rather than erect a new bridge, as it was con- sidered that a bridge was more necessary in another place.—On the proposition of Mr. E J. vans. it was decided to con- tribute £20 toward the erection of a bridge over the river Wyre, Llangwyryfon, and to ask the County Council to contribute an equal amount, provided the Tregaron Rural Council also contributed £20. It was explained that the bridge was on the boundary of two par- ishes and two unions.—The following tenders were received for the erection or a new bridge over the river Rheidol near Factory, Llanbadarn:—-Eagle Foundry, JS140 (iron); Messrs. J. Lloyd and Co., £80 (wooden bridge); Messrs T. Williams and Sons, JB145 (iron.)—It was agreed to defer accepting the tender of the Eagle Foundry, which was the lowest, pending an application to the County Council for a contribution toward the cost.—The Sur- veyor (Mr. David Davies) made rn appli- cation for remuneration for preparing plans of six new bridges and the matter was deferred until the next meeting. Sanatorium. Correspondence was received from the Treasurer of Alltymynvdd Sanatorium with regard to the Council's contribution of £40: but it was stated that the patient which the Council were desirous of sending to the Sanatorium had been admitted on his own behalf. It was important tnat the medical advisers of all patients lesirous of being treated were able to testify as to physical fitness. Only those in the £ r.st stage of the complaint were admitted" for evident and necessary reasons md tie certificate must be confirmed in due time by the examination of the Medical Super- intendent at Alltvmynydd who alone had power to admit or refuse cases from a medical standpoint.—Instructions were given to the Clerk to complete the agree- ment with the Sanatorium authorities in order to satisfy the formalities of the Local Government Board. Landers. Mr. Oliver Jones reported on the visit made by himself and the Chairman to Ystumtuen with regard to landers across the road in connection with Penrhiw Mine. Although the Committee did not see so much cause for complaint, the inhabitants felt that they had a grievance and the Committee recommended that one of the landers should be removed in order to widen the road. He thought the inhabit- ants ought to be pleased to see a big wheel turning round where no wheel had been turning for twenty years and the prospect of more employment.—The matter was referred to the Surveyor and instructions were also given as to fencing the culvert.. Sanitary. The Inspector reported that he met the members of Llanrhystyd Parish Council with regard to the "waterspout call tyll tan yr eglwys," which was short of water during the summer, though it used to yield an abundant supply. The Parish Council had endeavoured to improve the supply by opening the drains with satis- factory results, so that there would be no reason for complaint in that part of the village. The roadside channelling on the north side of Pwllhobi, Llanbadarn, was in a disgraceful state owing to the con- stant stagnant water which created an offensive nuisance as well as an eyesore. He suggested that stone kerbing and chan- nelling should be constructed for the entire length. This was one of the worst spots in the neighbourhood and should be attended to without delay. He suggested that the County Council should be asked to contribute half the cost as the nuisance was entirely on their main road and was caused to some extent by surface water from the road. In visiting Taliesin, he came across a familv of seven, two adults and five children, occupying an old and dilapidated cottage with its roof in pieces, damp walls and mud floors, and no ceiling or furniture. The cottage was untidy and unfit for human habitation without undergoing extensive repairs. He had communicated with the owners and if the repairs were not carried out the house should be closed at once. A case of diphtheria was notified in the village. The necessary precautions were ordered. There was room for improvement in the sur- roundings which would have to be carried out. He suspected some of the water supplies, especially the spouts which were in gardens below the dwellings. He had commenced a house-to-house inspection of Taliesin, Tre'rddol, and the neighbourhood and had already come across many things which would have to be dealt with. Two cases of scarlet- fever occurred at Llan- gawsai and it appeared that the patients were infected in school. Another case of scarlet fever was notified from Llanbadarn which was supposed to have been con- tracted in school elsewhere as the sur- roundings of the house were satisfactory. Plans of a new vicarage and outbuildings at Eglwysnewydd, Hafod; of workshop at Pontrhydygroes for the Hafod estate: of small cottage at Penlleine for Nanteos estate; of new farmhouse at Hendre- felen, Rhostie; and of outbuildings at Cae- ffynon, Llanbadarn, were recommended for approva1.-The report was adopted.—It was decided to give notice to the residents at Pwllhobi prohibiting them from throwing water on the roadside and the question of making all application to the County Council was referred to the Clerk.—-With regard to the uninhabitable cottage at Taliesin, the Surveyor was directed to take the necessary steps to close the dwelling, and it was explained that the question of relieving the family was one for the Board of Guardians. Vacant Surveyorship. Mr. E. J. Evans, in proposing a vote of condolence with the family of the late Mr John Hughes, Talybont, road surveyor, said that Mr. Hughes, who had been con- nected with the Council from the com- mencement, was a good and faithful ser- vant. Mr Hughes had carried out duties honestly and economically, having regard to the best interests of the Coun- cil, workmen, and ratepayers.—Mr K J. Williams seconded the proposition which was agreed to.—On the question of filling the vacancy, Mr. E. J Evans propose*, that inquiries should be made in other unions as to the mileage, number of sur- veyors and workmen, and salaries. He was in favour of deferring the appoint-j ment until that information was received and, therefore, urged the Council to pro- ceed cautiously.—The Rev. John Davies ment until that information was received and, therefore, urged the Council to pro- ceed cautiously.—The Rev. John Davies seconded the proposition and, in reply to questions, said he believed that if the in- formation was received it would assist the Council in deciding whether it was better to appoint three surveyors as. before or divide the districts. He considered that when the replies were received from other unions the information would be favour- able to the present system.—During the discussion. Messrs. W. Mason, John Morris, Oliver Jones, J. Bonner, Thomas James spoke against the proposition and thought it would be waste of time to obtain information from other unions. They also argued that it would not be possible for two surveyors to do the whole work in the whole district.—Mr. John Morris pro- posed an amendment to proceed with the appointment of a third surveyor.—Mr. Oliver Jones seconded the amendment. Fifteen voted for the amendment, which was carried, and on the proposition of Mr. W. T. Lewis, seconded by Mr. Richard Thomas, it was decided to advertise the vacancy and make the appointment in a fortnight.—On the proposition of the Rev John Davies, it was agreed to require the applicants to pass a test examination as to their technical and practical qualifications. Mr. J Richards complained that mem- bers took prominent part in the discussion when they had not attended previous meetings and he was afraid there was an object in view.—Mr. Morris replied that it was time somebody should speak other than those who were continually talking. He added that he had been unable to attend previous meetings owing to illness. —It was decided not to stipulate an age limit, that the salary should be JB60 as before, and that the whole time should be devoted to the duties. A committee of nine members, with the Clerk, was appointed to conduct the test examina- tion at ten o'clock in the morning and sub- mit the names of successful candidates to a special meeting of the Council to be held at three o'clock on Monday, April 19th. Mr. George Hughes, deceased's son, was appointed as temporary surveyor. Thanks. This being the last meeting of the year, a vote of thanks to the Chairman for his services was passed on the proposition of Mr. J. Richards, seconded by Mr. J. Roberts, and the Chairman suitably re- plied. He acknowledged the assistance given to him by the Council and officials and reporters. He proposed a vote of thanks to the Vice-Chairman which was seconded by Mr. E. J. Evans and agreed to. TOWN COUNCIL, Tuesday, April 6th.— Present: Councillor J. T. Davies, mayor, presiding; Aldermen Peter Jones, E. P. Wynne, and Isaac Hopkins; the ex-Mayor, Councillors Daniel Thomas, T. J. Samuel, J. Gibson, Rufus Williams, John Evans, G. Fossett Roberts, George Wilkinson, D. C. Roberts, and Edwin Morris Messrs A. J. Hughes, town clerk; Rees Jones, borough surveyor; Chas. Massey, borough accountant; James Evans, sanitary inspector; and Dr. Thomas, medical officer. COMMUNICATIONS. The Town Clerk reported that tne Mayor and he attended the annual meeting of the Association of Municipal Corporations at the Guildhall, London, on the 25th March, when Aberystwyth was elected on the Council of the Association, receiving 110 vote to 137, the highest. A copy of the souvenir had been forwarded wifh the Mayor's letter of invitation to the N.U.T. Conference for next year to each delegate. 1,500 or 1,600 in number. A lettei' had been written to the G.W.R. Company urging improvement in the rail- way service over their system from the midlands and Ir. Inglis replied that the representation should not fail to receive the Company's consideration. The Town Clerk said that Mr. Jordan, who had applied for the Market Hall Assembly Rooms for skating purposes, wrote that he had made enquiries as to noise to neighbours and in view of ex- pressed views could not see his way to take the room. Mr. Jordan added that he had purchased from Mr. Roberts the lease of the Old Skating Rink in Portland- street and it was his intention to spend a considerable sum upon it in the provision of a rink. An application by Thomas Hoskins to occupy a portion of the lifeboat slip on the Terrace in order to clean boots there- on was referred to the General Purposes Committee. Mr. R. J Jenkins, writing on behalf of the Steam Packet Company, said he should be glad to have the decision of the Council with reference to a reduction of harbour dues. The Town Clerk informed the Council that the Local Government Board con- firmed the additional building byelaws and it was agreed to have them printed. A letter was read from J. Watkins, calling attention to the footpath leading to Parltyllyn from Pwll Simon and saying that it could not be repaired owing to its narrowness without going on to adjoining lend which was objected to. Mrs. Edwards was willing to give land to make the path six feet wide on the Council attending to the fencing. Tho letter was referred to the Footpaths Committee. The Town Clerk asked to be allowed to refer in committee to certain matters as to Constitution Hill and an interview he had had with Mr. Mgore, acting on be- half of Sir Thomas Tacon. He had also a communication which might be considered in committee as to an interview with the G.W.R. as to the right of way over land at Abervstwvth. THE NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD. The Town Clerk' read a letter from Messrs Lewis Thomas and David Edwards suggesting that the Council as representa- tive of the town, should apply for the liolrl'iig at Aberystwyth in 1911, of the National Eisteddfod. Captain David James, the Chief Con- stable (Mr. Edward Williams), Mr. Savin, and others attended as a deputation in support of the letter. The Chief Constable thought that Carmarthen might be selected for 1911, but it would be well to keep the town before the eisteddfodic authorities in order to get the fixture for 1913. Captain James supported the applica- tion and the Council unanimously referred the subject to the General Purposes Com- mitter to take the necessary steps. GENERAL PURPOSES. The General Purposes Committee recom- mended that souvenirs be supplied to tourist agencies and that an application to place auto marie sweetmeat apparatus on the Promenade Extension should be re- fused. The report wa., adopted. PUBLIC WORKS. The Works Committee recommended that the Surveyor should improve the working of the valve of the harbour sewer; that the Council join the Royal Institute of Public Health and subscribe a guinea annual'v; und that the application of the Steam Packet Company for a further re- duction of harbour dues should be deferred as well as plans of a landing stage at the Harbour to facilitate the landing of goods. The Town Clerk was directed to reply to the letter received from Mr J. B. Kitto in the matter of the L.P. Bank premises. The Surveyor was directed to report on repairs necessary to be done to the Town Hall. of alterations to 40. Marine- I terrace, wo approved, subject to the applicant obtaining the consent of the owner of 41 to the overlapping shown on the plan. Plans were approved for Messrs Moore and Evans of alterations at the back of Derwen House, Thespian-street, and of Mr. Isaac Rees of alterations to Tudor House, Bridge-street, subject to the wall being raised as suggested by the Surveyor. The Sanitary Inspector reported having tested thirty-three drains, fourteen of which he found defective. The number of notices not complied with on March 19th was twenty-seven. Three cases of in- fectious disease were notified. The Works Committee directed the Town Clerk to call the attention of the Chief Constable to the sweeping of dust into streets and the beating of mats in the streets after eight o'clock in the morning and to request his assistance in abating the nuisance caused thereby. The report was adopted, it having been stated that the paragraph relating to the raising of a wall in Bridge-street, should read in reference to Messrs Moore and Evans' premises in Thespian-street. In reply to Mr Gibson, Alderman Jones said the Medical Officer's report would be re- ibrred back to the Committee for consid- eration. ANOTHER TIME OF ASKING. Alderman Jones moved and Mr Fossett Roberts seconded that the attention of the Chief Consable should bo called to the sweeping of-dust into the streets and beat ing mats in the streets after eight o'clock in the morning and that lie be re- quested to assist in abating the nuisances. Mr Gibson asked if the Council had not already appointed Superintendent Jones as an officer of the Corporation to see 1m that matter of sweeping dust into the straets ? The Town Clerk replied that Superin- tendent Jones had been appointed gener- ally and to abate that nuisance was one of his duties. Mr Gibson asked the town Ulerk to lll- form the Council what was the position between the police and the Council with reference to that matter ? The Town Clerk replied that the police were under the jurisdiction of the county authority and not of the borough autho- rity but they had always expressed wil- lingness and shown readiness, as far as he knew, to assist the Council in any matter brought to their notice. On evidence submitted to Superintendent Jones or any any other officer of an offence they would take proceedings. It was not necessary that the informant himself should detect the offence; but if any person noticed an offence or one of the officials noticed an offence of that description and reported it, information would be at once laid and a summons issued, Mr Gibson asked if that meant that an official could take proceedings? The Town Clerk—Oh yes, Undoubtedly. Mr Gibson—Then why don't they do so? The Town Clerk—Well, I —— Alderman Jones said if he recollected rightly a resolution had been passed autho- rizing Superintendent Jones to take pro- ceedings as well a;1 the officials of the Council. He therefore did not know why the officials who happened to be about and saw those offences did not take proceedings. The Town Clerk said it was necessary for such a resolution to be passed and it had bean passed. Alderman Jones thought the Council might remind its officials as the Council was reminding the police of what they had been asked to do. Mr Daniel Thomas said that circulars were issued some time ago asking the in- habitants to stop the nuisances complained of, but the circulars had not a bit of effect. Alderman Jones expressed' surprise that paid officials of the Council should walk the streets and not observe those tilings in passing. Mr Gibson said the Council had been through that matter before and the Town Clerk now told the Council that they ought to do the work themselves. Why should they ? The Town Clerk said what he meant to say was that if any perron saw an offence- committed and gave information to the officials proceedings would be taken but that did not take from the officials the duty of keeping their eyes open and dete offences without being told to rlo ::0. Mr Gibson—Why should we do it when we pay officials to do the duty? The Town Clerk—I do not suggeit at all that you should. Alderman Jones—The omciak ors- raid for doing their duty and that is p-ut of their duty. Alderman Hopkins said the nuisance of sweeping the streets without previously watering t'nem was a greater nuisance than beating mats in the street. The recommendation was adopted and the Town Clerk was once more directed to require the officials to do their duty. Finance Committee. The Finance Committee reported having visited on March 19th, the piece of land between Greenfield-street and the Rheidol Railway and the piece of land at the rear of Mr. Llewelvn Samuel's premises in Northgate-street, for which he had applied for a lease. The Committee recommended the payment of £171 3s 4d general district (including £76 19s 6d labour); je34 118 2d. water works: J36 5s 6d markets and slaughter house; £42 17s 6d (including £11 7s 7d labour): £3 9s burial board; £26 15s. 7d (including £12 lis 2M tithes): £25 magistrates' clerks fees account: and J34 5s workmen's houses account; total, £314 7s Ed. The Committee decided to visit the Laundry premises in Mill-street and also the land adjoining the Drill Hall. The Town Clerk was directed to inform Mr Roberts, tobacconist, that the matter of his letter in regard to the renewal of Miss Owen's lease having been disposed of, the Council cannot further interfere and to suggest that he should negotiate with Miss Owen. Subject to the approval of the Local Government Board, it was agreed to grant Mr. Llewelyn Samuel a piece of land eight feet by four feet at the rear of his premises at an annual rent of 2s. 6d., the term to run concurrently with the lease of his shop in Northgate-street. The Committee also recommended that the Tennis and Croquet Ground at the rear of the Town Hall should be let to the club now being formed by Mr. Ivor Evans, at a rent of £12 per annum, and that the Town Clerk should call on the former tenants to put the ground in a proper state of order and repair: that the rent of the Football Field in Smit-hfield-road. let to the Football CIno, be reduced fo £25 in consideration of the cost or drainage and other work defrayed by the Club •. and that, subject to £35 being.collected from outside sources, £40 be voted in aid of the Sana- torium fund, to date from 1st July, 1909, the total contribution of £75 to be entrusted to the Council. The considera- tion of the plan submitted Dr. Harries of proposed motor garage in Bath-street was deferred. The consideration of the plans submitted bv Mr. George 'Wilkinson and Mr. J. R. James were deferred until the next meeting of the Committee anu the Surveyor was directed to report tneio- on. The Town Clerk submitted the draft of an agreement for a lease to Miss S. E. Owen of properties in North-parade, Terrace-road, and Cambrian-street, at an annual payment of £28 Is Id., and the Committee approved it and recommended that it should be executed. The report was adopted down to the re- commendation concerning Mr Roberts, tobacconist, when the ex-Mayor asked how could Mr Roberts negotiate with Miss Owen as to the piece of land at the back of his premises, though he might be able to do so in respect of other matters. Once the Council signed the agreement for a lease there was an end of all chance of negotiation. Why could not the Council deal with that matter in the same way as they dealt with all other matters? When application was made for renewal in other cases the Council had made reservations in order to secure air space. In that case there had been an oversight. Mr Samuel replied that as far a the Council was concerned, Miss Owen had accepted the terms and the Council could not interfere. The property was now Miss Owen's and she had it for seventy-five years and he did not think the Council could interfere at all in taking any portion of it away, whereas Mr Roberts had a per- ¡ fect right to negociate for a portion of the premises. I Mr Gibson—The main point is that in t any grievance Mr Roberts has against Miss I Owen he can proceed. The Mayor—The Town CWk stated that. The recommendation having been adopted, the ex-Mayor said he would again-l mention it when the paragraph recommend- ing that the draft agreement for a lease to Miss Owen came on for adoption. On the draft agreement being pro- posed and seconded for approval, the ex-Mayor proposed that the recommendation Ðhould be referred back for consideration. The Council had heara from the Chairman of the Finance Com- mittee that Miss Owen had acoepted the terms. There were two cases on record where the parties had accepted the terms and where the. Council had on certain in- formation coming in referred the matter back for reconsideration. In that case when Mr Roberts sent a letter to the Council, it was moved that the matter should be referred back. It was hurried through and the matter was not duly con- sidered. When the lease was renewed in 1894, it was on condition in the Surveyor's report to the effect that an open space of not less than nine inches should be left between the oven and the back wall of Mr Roberts's house that the chimney stack of the bakehouse should be built into the party wall between Miss Owen's and Mr Roberts's and to the same height as shown on Mr Roberts's plan; and that the stoke hole should be. covered over. With regard to the first condition, Mr Roberts had fftated that there was a space of two-and-a- half inches only between the oven and his premises and that the chimney stack had been built outside the party wall and was in such a condition that it had to be strapped up with iron straps and was in an unsafe condition. The matter should be referred back in order to see that the first conditions were carried ont. He took it that the first lease was invalid as the con- ditions had not been complied v/ith. That was not a matter to be dealt with lightly. If the lease were renewed, the Council would be continuing conditions contrary to the byelaws. The Surveyor's report had been ignored. The Surveyor's report was that No. 21 should be demolished and with regard to No. 23 it was suggested that it should be raised to the same height as No. 19. Those things were struck out. The height of the bedroom was six lieet. Was there any reason in allowing a house in North-parade to go on for seventy-five years like that? At the previous meet- ing Mr Hopkins said that in 1894 he was in favour of Mr Roberts and that he (the ex- Mayor) was in favour of Miss Owen. His position, however, was the same to-day as in 1894. All he then desired was that the matter should be referred back in order to try to arrange for an open space at the rear of Mr Roberts's house. Mr Hopkins on that occasion charged somebody with underhand work in granting the lease, adding that by so doing they were spoiling a block of property worth £4,000 or £5,000. At that time Mr Peter Jones got up and explained how the matter really stood. At that time Miss Owen applied for the re- neweal of No, 21. Mr. Wemyss was the owner of No. 19, the old bakehouse and the two houses at present owned by Mr Rob- erts. He had juat submitted plans at that time showing new buildings and providing air space out of his own grounds. That being so, the Council did not reserve any portion of Miss Owen's premises at that point, but reserved a portion at the rear facing Cambrian-street in order to give back premises to two houses. Owing to Mr W emyss's plans showing air space for the whole of the property in his possession, no open space was provided for. After- wards plans were submitted by Miss Owen and rejected, and it was suggested that the buildings at the back should be on the opposite side to Mr Roberts's property. An amended plan was submitted, but the Committee again recommended the Council to adhere to their former decision. The Surveyor then made suggestions which were embodied in a report and were to the effect that an open space ofi not leas than nine inches should be left between the oven and the back wall of Mr Roberts's house and that the chimney stack of the bake- house should be built into the party wall. It had been stated that that was only con- solidating a certain number of leases. If that was so, it was renewal of leases as well. It was also stated that case was identical with the recent renewal of leases for the Waterloo. As far as Nos. 19 and 21 were concerned, it was a matter of con- solidation, whereas all the other premises were separate. In the case of' the Water- loo eight or nine premises had been built into one block and consequently consoli- dation was desirable in the interests of the Corporation. Mr Daniel Thomas seconded the proposal to refer back, feeling strongly that it was desirable for the health of the district. He had no other motive. Mr Gibson asked the Town Clerk whether had not given his definite opinion that the matter had been completed? The Clerk replied that the matter had been completed and the only thing remain- ing for the Council to do was to execute the agreement. At the same time it was open to propose to refer back before exe- cution. The Council, however, were pre- scribed from altering the terms. Mr Samuel said that when the Surveyor brought in the report he was strongly in favour of it. The building ought to have been taken down. The Committee however, did not act on the Surveyor's le commendation, but went another tack and wanted to demolish an old shed or building. The Surveyor's recommenda- tion was clearly rejected by the Committee. The majority decided in favour of retain- ing the old building. At present the Council could not go behind their terms and if they did Miss Owen could briao- an action to compel execution. What then was the use to refer back when the Council was powerless? It would only be for the sake of discussion. The recommendation to approve and execute the draft agreement was then carried by a majority, three or four only voting for the amendment to refer Hack OTHER COMMITTEES The Library Committee reported that JB5 had been devoted to celebrating the centu- ary of, thc- Printing Press at Abervstwyth. The General Purposes Committee recom- mended the Council to become members of the Cardigan Bay Advertising Association. & Alderman Wynne said in the absence of the Mayor and the Town Clerk, Mr Rufus Williams and Mr. Samuel accompanied him to the conference of delegates from health resorts on Cardigan iBay when it was agreed to form an association under articles so as to be able to recover money promises by representatives of the different places if it was necessary to do so. Mr Denniss stated that his experience of the past was that payments were made for the first year, but not for the second and tiiird year. If the Association was pro- perly constituted, it would be able to recover promised contributions. The Com- mittee recommended the Council to join the Association. It having been agreed to join, The ex-Mayor asked if the Committee had considered the question of providing a band for the season. A notice convening a meeting was sent out on Mondav and no subject was stated on the notice" for dis- cussion and as the Committee had been held to consider trifling matters he did not nttend. He should like to know whether the report of the public meeting of ratepayers was considered in reference to the provision of a band for the season. He paid no attention to rumours; but he heard that it was not. Alderman Jones-Oh Alderman Wynne replied that he speci- fied that the meeting was an important one to consider the band question, but when he received his notice he found that that was not on it. There were only eight members present and several were in a hurry to get away to another meeting in the town that night. He had the band question on his agenda and five or six other questions with reference to adver- tising; but the only matter discussed was the one appearing on the Council's agenda. i Mr. Daniel Thomas said the matter of the band was considered very urgent a month ago. Was it not possible for the Council to proceed now ? The Mayor said the question would come before the next meeting. The Town Clerk said he had an important communication to make to the Council in Committee with reference to that matter. Alderman Wynne explained that in view of Easter being at hand, the Com- mittee had made arrangements for a band, the Mayor to pay for it out of his salary. (Laughter.) BATHING MACHINES. Tenders for stands on the beach for bathing machines were opened. Mr. J. V. Lewis offered Is. 6d. per machine for the season for South-terrace and 33 6d. for fourteen on the Marine-terrace; Mr. Thackham 2s. 9d each for eighteen on Victoria-terrace; 'and Mrs. Jane Ellen Evans, Terrace-road, 12s. 6d. each for thirty machines on Marine-terrace. The matter was referred to the General Purposes Committee. The Council then went into committee. MEDICAL OFFICER'S ANNUAL REPORT. Dr. Abraham Thomas, medical officer of health, in his report for the year ended 1908 stated that the number of births registered during the year was 160—148 j legitimate and 12 illegitimate; 62 males and 98 females.—as compared with 172 for ten years. The number is equivalent to an annual birth rate of 19.97 per 1,000 as compared with 21.2 for ten years and with 26.5 for England and Wales for 1908. The number of deaths was 131, as com- pared with 141 for ten years and is equivalent to an annual death-rate of 16.4 per 1,000. To the number registered must be added three deaths at the Work- house, bringing up the total to 134. In- cluded in the total are deaths of 15 visitors which, if abstracted, would reduce the total to 119, equivalent to an annual local death-rate of 14.85 per 1,000. The term "non-residents," however, is limited to persons tifought 'inito the ilistriot on account of sickness or infirmity and dying in a public institution. Six out of the 15 visitors were admitted into the Aberyst- wyth Infirmary and died there. Hence the corrected nett total number of deaths (including those of 9 visitors), is 128, equiva- lent to an annual death rate of nearly 16 per 1,000, as oompared with 14.7, the rate for England and Wales; with 14.9 in the seventy-six great towns; with 14 in the 142 smaller towns; and 14.7 in England and Wales, less the 218 towns. Twenty-one died under one year; 5 under five; 4 under 15; 2 under 25; 53 under 65; and 43 upwards of sixty-five years. Infantile mortality was equivalent to a rate of 131 deaths per 1,000 births registered, as compared 'with 140, the average for ten years and 121, the average average for ten years and 121, the average rate for England and Whales in 1908. There were 8 deaths from zymotic diseases^ as compared with 4 in 1907-3 from diarr- hoea, 2 diphtheria, one each from whoop- ing cough, scarlet fever, and measles. Thnt was equivalent to an annual death rate of one per 1,000, as compared with 1.29 for England and Wales, and with 1.05 for the ten years. Thirteen deaths were attributed to phthisis, and was equal to the high rate of 1.62 per 1,000. There were also four deaths from other tuber- cular lesions. Thus the total deaths from tubercular affections amounted to 17, or to the high rate of 2.12 per lOOO. There had been no reduction from that high rate during the past ten years. The total of 179 for the ten years was equivalent to an average of 18 deaths per annum but in- cluded a fair percentage of deaths among visitors suffering from the disease. The mortality from consumption in Cardigan- shire was even higher. Concerted action by county and town authorities in carry- ing out recent measures ought to con- siderably lessen the present high rate. Chest affections contributed 17 deaths; 17 deaths were due to heart disease; 11 were caused by cancer; 4 were due to accident; and one to drowning. The number of in- fectious diseases notified was 53, and in- cluded 30 cases of scarlet fever, 19 of diphtheria, 3 of enteric, and one case of facial erysipelas. The majority of the scarlet fever cases were notified during the last quarter of the year and 14 out of the 21 then notified were limited to five households. The diphtheria cases were more evenly spread throughout the year, and two out of 19 ended fatally. There did not appear to be any connection between the three enteric patients and no light was obtained as to the origin of the disease. All three patients recovered He had from time to time strongly urged the Council to provide sufficient and proper hospital accommodation for infectious diseases, to include a properly-equipped laundry, a mortuary, and a disinfecting apparatus for bedding, clothing, etc. In the year 1900 the Council unanimously re- solved to carry out these measures; but partly owing to the difficulty of a suitable site and partly on the score of expense involved, no practical progress had been made. Isolation in small houses of the working classes is impossible. Had the town possessed an isolation hospital several cases of scarlet fever would have been limited to a single member of a household and not spread to 2, 3, or 4 inmates as was the case last year. Consequently also for the same reason the loss of life that resulted might have been prevented. On the other hand, several cases of infection occurred in some of the larger boarding houses, and the absence of hospital accom- modation entailed considerable loss and hardship. The provision of hospital accom- modation, including a steam disinfecting apparatus, is absolutely essential in the best interests of the town as a great educa- tional centre and as a. leading health resort. Systematic house-to-house inspec- tion of various portions of the town has been carried out, in conjunction with the Sanitary Inspector. Special attention was paid to Trefechan and Penparke. The condition of Penparke is, as reported on previous occasions, unsatisfactory. The streets are narrow, unpaved, and in some parts even unchannclled. Provision is made for the drainage of surface and rain water, but not for excremental matter. The pail system is the method adopted in this district and the adjoining part of Rhydyfelin. Many of the houses are old and in a more or less dilapidated con- dition. Some portions of Trefechan are also unsatisfactory. The Council are effecting a great improvement in Poplar- row and Skinner-street by demolish- ing old houses and erecting houses which will be let at a rental within reach of the working man. The total sum borrowed by the Corporation for work- men's houses on previous occasions total £4,000, and the present loan is £2.880. The greater portion of the milk supply is obtained from outside the borough. Cow- sheds and dairies within the borough were limewashed twice during the year, but their general surroundings are far from satisfactory. The public should be taught the necessity of using milk sterilized by boiling, particularly for infants. The standard of cleanliness attained bv the two common lodging houses had been main- tained. The register of factories and workshops contains a total number of 126 workshops, as compared with 135 in 1901 and 138 in 1906. Two hundred and forty inspections had been made and 28 notices served and complied with. Scarlet fever occurred in two instances in premises used as dwellings and also as workshops. Work in one ca.se was at once discontinued, and in the other case the building was large enough to thoroughly isolate the patient. Medical inspection of schools was com- menced in October. The number examined was limited to those who entered schools during the year and those likely to leave during the ensuing year--333 out of 1,277 children being inspected. Systematic and regular examination will result in far- reaching influence on the health of the rising generation. Considerable hygienic improvements had been effected in the buildings and offices of the Aberystwyth and Penparke National Schools. Arrange- ments at Alexandra-road Schools were un- satisfactory and inadequate, and the schools were overcrowded. Extensive alterations now in course of erection will entirely obviate these defects. Watering the streets from Plascrug well, flushing drains, and supplying the Railway Companies have considerably lessened the complaints as to intermittent supply to the higher portions of the town durmg the summer season. An adequate and constant supply for visitors is a subject of the greatest importance and one worthy of the attention given it bv the Council. Expert opinion was obtained during the year and the duplication of the mains and the provision of a new small reservoir were recommended. The embankment at Llvn Llygad Rheidol has been raised and the Surveyor directed to report on the cost of a new service reservoir. Improvements in regulating the gradients of sewers have been carried out. The Inspector did excellent work by making systematic tests of house drains. Many defects were dis- covered and in each instance a notice was served to construct new drains. Everv notice was complied with. The sewers have been systematicly flushed and cleaned during the year. The scavenging of the town was conducted by the Corporation employees under the supervision of the Surveyor. The house refuse from April to October was deposited on a site not easily accessible to the public and during the remaining months between the railway and the Rheidol. This arrangement has, to a certain extent, lessened complaints of offensive odours, but the method of dis- posal of house refuse is very primitive and unsatisfactory. He trusted the Council would soon see the necessity of erecting a refuse destructor. Givingthe Meteorological readings for the year, Dr. Thomas added that the average dry bulb temperature was 51.3, daily min. temperature, 45.3, daily maxim, 55.2; daily range. 9.9; daily mean, 50.3; number of frosty days, 26; total' rainfall (Castle), 23'.28 inches; (garden), 33.82; number of sunless days, 68; and total hours of sunshine, 1.435 hours.