The Carmarthen Weekly Reporter

BEQUEST TO THE CARMARTHSHIRE INFIRMARY. THE Brynmyrddin fanily have been such old and liberal supporters of this institution thatit will not be a matter for surprise to learn that the Secretary of the Carmarthenshire Infirmary has received an intimation from the executors of the late Mr J. R. Morris, Llangoedmore, that that gentleman has by his will left the Institution a legacy of duty free. Mr Morris, who was a younger son of the late Mr Thomas Charles Morris, Brynmyrddin, met his death last November in New Zealand under particularly painful circumstances. The deceased gentleman had been living at Mount Roskill, near Auckland, New Zealand, and had gone to St. Heliers Bay, a neighbouring watering place for a few days. It appears that early in the morning of the 30th of November last he went down to bathe from the Pier. About five hours later his body was found in a small bay half a mile off. It is supposed that lie was either carried away by the current, which runs strongly by the Pier, and drowned; or that the shock of entering the water affected his heart and so caused his death. Mr Morris it may be added, went out to New Zealand for the second time in the summer of 1803 for the benefit of his health, which had much improved of late.

ST. CLEARS MARKET. THE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE TO BE APPROACHED. MR. John Lloyd Morgan, the M.P. for West Carmarthenshire, is an ideal representative in that "he is always on the spot. On Monday he asked a question in the House of Commons regarding the departmental muddle concerning n St Clears Monthly Market, ron which In we commented in our last issue. The reply of the President of the Local Government Board was not very satisfactory it may be laid down as a general rule that such replies never are. But it is perfectly clear that if a strong local effort is made the Department is open to re-consider the matter. Before drawing attention to the matter in last week's issue of the Reporter, we assured ourselves in the most unmistakable manner of the existence of a strong local feeling on the subject and since the article was published we have been assured from other sources that no language could sufficiently deprecate the local condemnation of the conduct of the officialdon in the matter It is very satisfactory to find that the locality is waking up to the necessity of translating its sentiments into action. Next week, we understand, Dr P. L. Thomas, of the Croft, will be introduced to the President of the Board of Argiculture by Mr J. Lloyd Morgan, M.P. and will state the case of the locality to Mr Long. This is an extremely wise step more can be done by ten minutes' conversation face to race than by six months' correspondence.

HISTORICAL DOUBTS CONCERNING SIR JOHN JONES JENKINS, M.P. WE have been for some time scanning the reports of the Parliamentary debates with the object of learning something of the doings of our Borough Member, Sir John Jones Jenkins. But we have been unsuccess- ful in the hunt. Now, in a sceptical age like the present, this is apt to give an opportunity to disciples of the arch-heretic Betsy Prig to declare "that there ain't no sich person." For after all, if there be such a person in existence, is it likely that he would hide his light under a bushel in this manner? Surely, even the most retiring legislator would sometimes find an opportunity of having his say on something or other relating to his constituency. Under such circumstances, one is almost forced to the conclusion that the Sir John Jones Jenkins legend is of an entirely mythical character. Again, authorities state that he flatly declined to answer the question of an elector regarding a question—that of Education—which everyone was discussing during the election of 189.5, on the ground that it was not before the country and that he actually afterwards supported measures for strengthening tho grip of the parson and tho priest (In the education of the Principality. The fir.-t statement is highly improbable, -s it is not likely that any candidatef«.r Parliament in Great En am wou d shuffle out of proclaiming his priu iplos th practice of politicians usually is to declare their vienl a in and out of season. The econd .tement. is so wildly impossible in sach an ultra-democratic country as Eng.and th;t the historian by its very absurdity gave a clue to its legendary origin The Tories always declared that (he legend- ary politician was no Tory. and the Liberals repudiate him. Ilence it is as probable that there is no Mich person—and that he must rank with the Wandering Jew, the Seven Sleepers, Pope Joan, and other creations of the human intellect. Wo shall be glad to receive any trustworthy ovideuco to the contrary but in tho meantime wo must regard the legend of his existence with the greatest possible amount of caution.

CONTINENTAL INNOVATIONS. WHEN it comes to concocting a revolution commend us to the House of Lords! The Lords have sent the Ccmmons a bill which will enable accused persons in all cases to give evidence on their trial. The bill, how- ever, does not meet with much favour in the Commons. Mr Lloyd Morgan summarised the case very neatly when he pointed out that it would gradually have the effect of throwing the burden of proof on the accused. Some of our good fnends shriek at Radicalism as Continental Liberalism the phrase is a fine one and it does not matter a brass farthing that it means absolutely nothing. But it is essentially Continental to turn a judge into a cross- examining advocate, and to call upon the accused to prove his innocence. It is English to consider a man guilty and to throw the burden of proof on the prosecution. A measure is nothing the worse of being Continental Christianity is Continental—whether it came to us from Rome or Ephesus is a deta] To be pre- judiced against foreign ways is essentially insular and intolerant but that is no reason why we should copy Continental vice, and Continental blunders. Our present judicial system is, after all, the best for innocent people and that it is so is proved by the fact that our French neighbours have during the last few months reformed their own procedure in criminal cases with the view of restricting the inquisitorial system which is such an instrument of torture to the innocent. But England is in the hands of a reactionary party at present and we arc pretty safe, as long as it is not proposed to revive the window-tax, the corn-laws, or the press-gang. Backward is the motto of our present rulers

GA.ETTK NKWS.—The OtM', tains the allowing — Receiving c Jones, of Pwlirhydypn.au, Quarter L- theflehire. butcher, ORGAN RECITAI..— Mr A J Silver will giYC an organ recit at St Peter's Church on Sunday we at 4 p.m. Full particulars will be t dvertised next week. SUCCESS.-It is ?>atif)iBg t • note the success Mr O i-er Parry, Soil man-street, who has I ^•vntly be- n avartl-d the theory or second cl,t"A ot rtiiieite in Piunan's horlhand. LOCAL (_ MMISSION.—The Lend on, Gazette cf Tuesday i.iyht conti.ir.ci the following War Oince, April 26, itia: Revel Artillery—Car- marthen Anility, Wtstnu Division-Captain R P Moieswoith, Auillery, to be adjutant, %ice Captain E Turner, Roval ^VrtilleTy, who e peiiod of OCIVicc has expire dated A-pnl 18tb, 1898. I CARMARTHENSHIRE INFIRMARY.—The Secretary bega respectfully to acknowledge receij.t of the following :—Fruit from Mr J Miller, Parade, and parcel of Home Notes from Miss Thomas, 28, Picton-terrace. GREAT WESTEUN RAILWAY CO.-TRAIN ALTERA- TIONS Fon MAY.—On and after the 1st of May the 6.15 train from Paddinglon to New Milford will start at 6 10 p ni. There are other minor alteratiur.s which are set out in special notices and time-tables. TO-DAY for April 30th contains a copy of a portrait of the Right Honourable WE Gladstone and Mrs Gladstone, at St. Switbiu's Church, Bournemouth, Suuday afternoon, March 6tb, 1898 This picture was specially studied from the life and drawn by Mr Forrest. Its interest is, perhaps, exceptional, es it probably constitutes the very latest portrait of Mr Gladstone. SrccEs-SE3 OF LLANDOVESY STUDENTS.—The follcwing pupils from Llandovery School have been successful at the recent scholarship examination at Jesus College, Oxford :-W. J.Williams (son of the Rev Canon Williams, Carmarthen) gained a scholarship to JC80 a year for mathematics R. J. Jcn js (son of the Rev R. Jonss, RhosHancrthrugog) an exhibition of £ 50 a year for classics, aJ)d T. Jenkins of Berth now student at St David's College Lampeter, the principal's exhibition of £ 50 a y-ar. I.VDEl'ENliENT ORDER OF GOOD -Oil Friday evening last the above Society held their weekly meeting at tha Assembly Rooms, under the presidency of Mr Walter Thomas, Presbyterian College. There was a fair attendance. After some business had been discuesed, the following took part in the proceedings — Recitation, Mr Edwin Kees Thomas (which was well received) address, Mr Harry JSiesbitt duett, Htsars Walter Thomas and Evan Jones, Presbyterian College p.ddress, Mr D R Morgan. An enjoyable meeting then terminated. On Friday evening next there will be an interesting debate. WELSH PARLIAMENT HY PARTY ANNUAL DI.N!'iF'.t. Sir William llarcourt end Lord Aberdare wero the principal guests at the annual dinner given on Tuesday night to the members of the Welsh Liberal Parliamentary party by Mr Alfred Thomas as their chairman. The dinner took place in the National Liberal Club and there were no toasts or speeches, but there was no lack of Welsh music. Mr Thee, Gee and Sir L V llarcourt were gaests, and among ths members of Parliament who attended were Mr Lloyd George, Mr J. Herbert Roberts, MrWm. Jonts, Mr Bryn Hohert, Mr llrynrnor Jones, Mr Abel Thomas, etc. Tho company numbered about 20. VOLUNTEER INSPECTION,—Captain Young, the recently-appointed adjutant,held his first inspection ot the H & I Companies of the 1st V B, tho Welsh The Regiment at Carmarthen, on Monday evening. companies, to tho number of 90, assembled at the Market-place they were commanded by Lieut. Norton and Lieut. John. Headed by the band (under Bandmaster John Jones) and the cyclists (under Lance-Corporal David Evans) they marched to the Railway Tavern field and were put through sevetitl rrovernents by the Adjutant. At the close Captain Young complimented the companies on their turn-out and also on how quickly they had picked up one movement in particular. With regard to the uniform he did not look so much on the equipment being whole, as on the men showing a clean turn cut. 1ST V.B. THE "WELSH REGIIIEN T. -Orders for the week ending Saturday, Mt-y 7th, 1898. Officer for the week, Lieut. A E 0 Norton. Company orderlies, Colour-Sergeant R J Jones and Lance- Corporal D Evans. Orderly bugler, "Willie Greenwood. Company drill cn Mondy, at 7-30 p.m., plain clothes. Class firing on Monday, Thursday, Fricl-ay, and Saturday, from 2 p. m, Recruits' drill on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, at 7.30 p.m. There will be a llrigde Camp at Penally from the 24th June to the 1st July. Further particulars later on. The Adjutant will hold an examination for promotion to the ranks of S-rgeant and Corporal on Monday, the 9th prox. Further details next week. Church parade on Nlay Ist. Fall in at the Armoury at 10. 1,7) a. ua, Dress: Review order, siz tunics, helmets, belts, and side arms. No pouches. By cider, W. BUCKLEY RODERICK, Major Commanding H C mpany. LAMMAS-STREET CHAPEL BAND OF HOPE.— The series of meetings held at the above Band of Hope arc drawing to a ch ee. It is pleasant to note I that thi-i season has been remaik-ibly successful. The attendance have been flourishing and the work aocompli>hed creditable. The lady members rendered most valuable assistance. The routine of work consisted of short temperance addresses, c-tiechizin,g on sacred subject?, vocal and choral singing, and also recitations, which proved to be of much service to the juvenile members generally The final meeting of the season will bo held on Thursday, May 5th, when the Baud of Hope children will be recipients of a splendid treat prepared by the ladies. The same evening a Band of Hope entertainment will be held, for which I tickets are issued at twopence each, The hard- \vo:king musical conductor (Mr I) II Williams, Queens-piece) and Juvenile Choir arc busily engaged in preparing an interesting programme. It i-i tliit the Band of Hope movement will commend itself for good patronage at the juvenile entertainment. Sinuous nIC CLZ ACCICENT TO A CAKMAHTIIEJI MAS.—The Llaneliy Rasihlers CycHng Crab took their fi-st run of the season on Saturday, hen they went to the Mumbles. On the return journey a section of the 30 cyclists who had turned out '.Ot.k the wrong turn and it w?? about 10 o'c! >ck at night whc'n they reached tho i i h f!, T, c, I of Llwynhen !y, within two oi L':vtl!y. Here a sad accident oceuirrd. A ra.t without a light pufcsed on the rü,.ct au: a trap which carried iights but was diiving fuiiou«!y «rd on the wrong side of the road iwuudifitdy foil wed, A young man named A Harding, sn accountant at Buckley's Brewey, Llaneliy, nul eon of th late Mr Viduou Hording, of Carm.rthcn, was at the rohr, and he was thrown into die h--d^e by this trap. The captain of the du. illrj EdmunJs, heard his gioans and pr,, inptly rendered what aid he could. The driver of the trap, who hailed from Gorsoinon, had meantime proceedcd homeward without heeding the accident. The victim was raino?cd to Mr Coles's houa' and after Dr Roderick had arrived and examined him he was conveyed in the early hours of the morning to the Llaneliy Hospital. It is feared that Hauling has received internal injuries, t-ut we understand that the injured gentleman is making satis- factory progress. The condect of the driver of the trap has been reported to the police. MR. CARTER'S DEPARTURE FROM CARMAR- THEN.—"We regret to annource that Mr Carter, G.W.R. etationmaster, left Carmarthen on Thurs- day for Pontypool, where he will undertake the important duties of chief clerk to the Superinter- dent ot the Pontypool division, as successor to Mr Richard, who has been promoted to the position of Assistant-Superintendent of the line. We r him our hearty congratulations upon his succosa in attaining to that responsible position. Mr Carter commenced his railway career at Gloucestor as a clerk in the Goods department through his abilities and talents he was soon promoted to the General Manager's office in London he was then removed to Swansea, where he served for several years as staff-clerk of the Swansea division, Upon the position cf stationmaster at Carmarthen becoming vacant through the demise of Mr Cruse, it was accepted by Mr Carter, who litis binee devo'ed himself unremittingly and exclusively to his duties. His energetic labours have effected great changes ard. improvements at the station, and we consider this promotion but a meritorious reward for such dutiful perseverance. We predict for Mr Carter a blight future, IJia lemovid frum Carmarthen will be regretted by the public and his staff, who feincers ly regret the loss ot su. h nn earnest and hard-working railwayman and so exemplary a master. We wish him and his successor at Carmarthen—Mr H. Davies, of GJwerton- every success in their new spheres. A preeentation to Mr and Mrs Carter will shortly be made by the staff at Carmarthen Station, a report of which will duly appear. SUDDEN DEATH OF DR. ELLIS EDW ARDS.- With sincere regret we have to record the death of Dr Ellis Edwarda, which occurred at his residence, Quay-street, Carmarthen, ai. 8 o'clock on Tuesday morning. Deceased, who was 4ft years of age, was the eon of the late Rev William Edwards, Congre- gational minister, Aberdare. The doctor was in practice in the. Ystalyfera district some 15 years ago, whence he removed to St. Clears. From that neighbourhood ho went to Carmarthen and subsequently to Conwil, where ho was for a considerable time one of the me1.c1 ofii-ers of the Carmarthen Union. After reUnijuishing that appointment be returned to Carmarthen, where he practised until his death. Ho was a geuial companion and his contributions to the Lancet and other medical journals were highly acceptable. He is survived by iiia widow and two sons and a daughter, with whom ftrcc.% sympathy is felt in tilrir praierit allliction. The death was painfully sudden. He was about a* usu^.l on Monday evening and that night wes in attendance on Mrs Wood, the Bister of Mrs Williams, the landlady of the Cordon Hotel. Dr Ellis Edwards was taken ill in the eoi^y hours of Tuesday mornirg and in spite or uis attendance of Dr Denzil Harries succumbed a.;cuu S n.tn. It jg a melancholy coincidence Uiat Mrs Wood died the same morn- ing. Dr E.wuids death will be a source cf genuine sorrow to many in Carmarthen and neighbourhood, ts his patients had in him an immense confidence greater than is often extended to popular physicians. His genial manner made him extremely popular v ith those who knew him. Tho funeral will bo of a public character and will take place on Friday at the ConBtuYI the procesilion leaving the house at 3 p-m- I INLAND REVENUE APPOINTMENT.—Mr J. Crov.iey has been promoted to a lirst-class Excise appointment at Halifax. WE are pleased to announce that grand sports and bicycle races will be held at the Railway Tavern field, Carmarthen, on Whit-Monday. A strong representative committee has been appointed and a grand prograii:rr«3 of events arranged. Vafuabie prizes will bo offered, full particulars d which will duly appear. in posters. CYCLINU CLUB.-The opening run of the Carmarthen Cycling Club took piueo on Thuisday afternoon week, their destination being Lianstcphan. A start WR.; made Irom Guildhall-squase r.t 3 o'clock, when a iargo number, headed by the captain (Mr Ton- Francis), proceeded thither. About a dozen young ladies accompanied the club. The sua proved a most enjoyable one whilst Saturday the club had another run to St Clears. WEDDING AT JOHNSTOWN.—On Wednesday morning a pretty and quiet wedding took place at Llanllwch Chareh, the contracting parties being Miss Agnes Thomas, PenrheolCottag-e, Johnstown, and Mr Frederick C. Dunn, of Cardiff Tho bride, who was charmingly attired iu a fashionable travelling costume of navy blue and cream eiik, with hat to match. was given away by her brother, Mr James Thomas, of Gowerton while she WHS attended by her two little nieces—Miss Sarah Anne Evans and Miss Winiired Thomas—who were prettily dressed in costumes of gray and cream i respectively, as bridesmaids. Mr William acted as best man." The ceremony was performed by the Vicar (the Rev Jonathan Mareden, B..I) ). After the ceremony the party returned to Penrhcol Cottage ('he residence of her brother-in-lary, Mr W. Evans), where the wedding- breakfast was partaken of, and later in the day the happy pair departed, amongst the well-wishes of their numerous friends, for Cardiff to take up their residence at their new home. We wish them long life and hvppiness, The presents were numerous ar.d of a costly and useful description.

The Parvenu" at the Assembly E corns, Carmarthen. Oa Thursday evening (the 21st) the Carmarthen Amnteur Dramatic Society placed on the boards G W Godfrey's celebrated three-act comedy, The Parvenu," and the company faced a most fashionable and critical audience. The entertain- ment was held for the benefit cf the Ferryside Lifeboat Fund. The dramatis persona was as follows Sir Fulke Pettigrew (of the Warren)," Mr J E Adamson; Ledger, M P. (of Pagnctt Royal)," Mr H Brunei White The lion. Charles Tracev," Mr Ernest Collier Claude Glynne," Mr J R Phillips "Lady Pettigrew," Miss Daisy Welis; "Gweueiolen Pettigrew." Mips Howell- Thomas I- Mary Ledger," Mto J E Adamson. The respective parts were admirably performed by the various ladies and geniiemen in the caste. Mr H. Brunei White, a* The Panenu" (M: Ledger, M P.). was unquestionably par excellence. We have s^eu Mr White on the stage in various characters, tut on Thursday evening he eclipsed himself— and that id saying a great deal. He kept the audience convulsed in the humorous portions of the character—the love scenes and his behaviour iv Society while in the serious parts—especially where he lectures Sir Fuike Pettigrew on his craftinoss and eelfishness in trying to sell his daughter t,) the highest bidder in the matrimonial market, and where he presents Gwendolen Pettigrew with the mortgage deeds of The Warren"—he was even emotional. Mr J E Adamson as "Sir Fulke Pettigrew" was, indeed, as if born to the part, his impersonaion being grand. Mr Ernest Collier, as The Hon Charles Tracey," a younger son, studying for the Church, acted his part well, his love-scenes with Mary Ledger and his interview with Sir Falke Pettigrew with rcfererce to his racing stud and his subsequent interview with his lady love, being most laughable. Mr J R Phillips, in his character as Claude Glyn ne," the artist, was unmistakably a success his acting in the various interviews with Sir Fulke and Lady Pettigrew and in his love scene with Gwendolen being splendid. The acting- of Miss Howell-Thomas, as Gwendolen," and Mrs J E Adamson, as Mary Ledger," was faultless, and was the subject of most complimentary remarks by the critical audience present. To Miss Daisie Wells, too. as Lady Pettigrew," we must accord unstinted praise for the manner in which she pourtrayed her character. She took the principal part in the comedy, and she acquitted it to perfection. Indeed, it is hard to single out any person for individual praise, for we might thus be judged invidious, as all did their parts excellently. From start to finish there was not a dull moment, and we unhesitatingly say that a better comedy has never been placed on tho boards at Carmarthen by an Amateur Dramatic Company. JoneE;' string band and Mr T S Paovlieombe occupied the orchestra, and gave their services gratuitously. Mrs Olive, Boar's He-id Hotel, Mrs Welis, and Mr A 0 Norton kindly lent stago decorations and Messrs Mason and Lickley plants ad llowers. Mr Rees Davies, contractor, generously supplied the ncetylene lamps Mr J E Adamson acted flS stage mannrer, and Mr Er.iCct Collier, scenic artist. Ths scenes were g and

A Welsh Vocalist in South Africa. t The following extract is taken from a Capetown newspapei — "Rarely have we eet-n the Feather Market pacsed to an extsufc as on Sunday evening last, when Mr Roger A-.obaru gave his JWth U,g.1Jl Recital. A musical attric n waH tht") first appearance in Port Elizabeth of Mr Lewis Thomas, a gentleman who has gained a considerable reputation on the concert beards at Homo, and when it got noised abroad that he had kindly promised to sing, great interest was centred in the coining event. Within our personal recollection, ro tenor eiuger of aav repute has ever appeared here, and we can safely say that the majority of last Sunday evening's audience had never heard the two fa!noui arias sung in such first-class style. Mr Thomas is not only gifted with a powerful and melodious voice ot great compass, but has alto the very necessary technique, which enables him to sing with perfect ease and faultless intonation such florid passages as Handol revelled in, and which are fully shown to perfection in the well known Every Valley," from the Messiah. At tho conclusion of this item, the audience were excitedly enthusiastic, and in response to the unanimous encore, Mr Thomas gave the popular ballad "The Holy City,' which quite won the hearts of the audience. The second item, Mendelssohn's beautiful air If with all your hearts" was also greatly appreciated, and as an encore Mr Thomas kindly gave a charmingly poetical rendering of a little song of Gounod. The audience seemed to be in the mood to listen to Mr Thomas' artistic singing all the evening, and should he favour us with another visit, he will meet with an equally brilliant success, for the public of Port Elizabeth do not often gpt such a ticat." Mr Lewis Thomas is a son of Mr T J Thom-i.3 London, who will bo recognised as a native of the neighbourhood of Carmarthen, and is connected wi Ul several families in the town.

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BIRTH. JONES.—April 25th, at Southall, L mdon, the wife of Mr Thomas Jones, fireman, G.W R. (formerly of Carmarthen), of a son. MARRIAGES. DUNN—THOMAS —April 27th, at Llanllwch Church, by tho Rev Jonathan Marsden, vicar, Mr F. C. Dunn, of Cardiff, to Miss Agues Thomas Penrhc-ol Ccttsge, Johnstown. JONES—BAT^TONE —April 13th, at the Baptist Church, Wellington, Somerset, by the Hev D. S. Humphreys, Edward Victor, eon of MrW. E Jones, chcmist, Llaneliy, to Lilian Walker, eldest daughter of the late Mr William Buto;tone, and neice of Mr John Eatstoue, of Rokcby, Wellington. DEATHS. EUWAUDS.—Apsil 20th, at Qur.y-5t.-ett, C¡ tEarthen, Dr Ellis Edwards, aged 49 jeav. EVANS.—April 23th. at Pcnsarn, Carmarthen, Hannah, the wife of Mr David Evans, labourer,! Aged '1(3 years. LLOYD —April 26th, Annotta Megan, eldest daughter of Mr R Lloyd, veterinaiy surgeon, Penygraig, Rhondda Valley, aged 19 years. ROUTLEBGE-April 25th. atForr>side,Carmarthen- ehire, Mr James Rout'edge, late of the Times, India, after a long and painful illness, aged P8 years. SMITH.—April 28th, at 9, E l'nton terrace, CHrmar. then, Jane, widow of the late Hr John Smith, aged 66 years. TKEHAHNS. — April lath, at Llansuphau, (alter 8 diys illness), Mr John Treharne, elraper and grocer, aged 51 years.

Carmarthenshire County Council. QUARTERLY MEETING AT CARMAR- I THEN. A meeting of the Carmarthenshire County Council was held at the Shire Hall, Carmarthen, on Wednesday. Professor D. E. Jones, Carmarthen, presided. There were also present Lieut.-Gen. Sir James Hills- Johnes, V.C., G.C.B. Messrs John Beavan, Llansauwrn Wilkins, Llaneliy Owen Bonville, Llanelly W. O. Brigstocke, Pare-y- gorse; John Williams, Penlan T. E. Brigstoeke, # Carmarthen; John Davies, Castellddrainog W. Powell Jeffreys, I Cynghordy; James John, Carmarthen Daniel Stephens, Kidwelly Dr R. L. Thomas, St. Clears Messrs John Johns. Parceithin W. N. Jones, Tirvdail J. S. Tregoning, Llaneily Rev W. Thomas, Whitland Messrs T. F. Jones, Cynwyl Caio; James Rees, Talgarth; T. Watkins, Llandovery John Rees. Doigwm Ben Evans, Rhydycymmerau; John Scourfieid, Blaemvernddu John Phillips, Caerlleonj T. R. Jones, Pantglas Thomas Jones, Pen ron w; W. Jenkins, Alltycadno; John Thomas, Thornhill W. Jones, Canton, Llandiio R. W. Stephens, Coedybrain H. Jones Davies, Glyneiddan John Lloyd, Penybank D. L. Jones, Derlwyn John Lewis, Meiros Hall H. J. Thomas, Llanfynydd Alfred Stephens, Kidwelly David Evans, Pembrey David -y Davies, Cenarth C. E. Morris, Penbryn "William Davies, Giansawdde David Davies, Llandebie Davies, Myddfai; the Clerk (Mr T. Jones) the Surveyor (Mr D. Phillips) the Chief Constable (Mr W. Philipps) and the Deputy-Treasurer (Mr R. Peel Price). THE CHARGE OF IMPERSONATION. Mr John Johns complained that the names of those who voted at the last meeting for and against tho proposal to increase the salary of Mr W. Buckley Roderick, coroner for the Three Commotts, had not been included in the minutes of the last quarterly meeting held at Llandiio. At the meeting referred to, Sir James Drummond had accused him (Mr Johns) of impersonation, in that he had voted in place of another member. The Clerk said it was perfectly clear that there had been a misunderstanding it was clear that Mr Johns had not voted for a member who was not present. Sir James Hills-Johnes said that he believed Sir James Drummond, Bart, had explained matters at the meeting referred to and it was a pity that the subject should be brought up again and made a sore of. Mr W. N. Jones said he was in the chair at the time, and he thought the matter had been amicably settled, and that Mr Johns had been satisfied with Sir James Drummond's explanation. Mr John Johns The Press reported it different in fact. Dr Thomas said that this was a matter wmcn ought to be thoroughly cleared up. He did not think Sir James Drummond was a man who would turn his back on the truth and he did not think Mr Johns was such a man either. As long as there was a misunderstanding in the public press, he thought the matter ought to be thoroughly gone into. It had now been given to 0 the county of Carmarthen and as it was covered with a large amount of doubt, he thought it ought to be thrashed out CD thoroughly. The Chairman said that he and Dr Thomas 'vere in the same position neither of them were present at the meeting. They would have to leave the matter to be thrashed out. He did not think it was fair to enter into it now, as Sir James Drummond was absent. Dr Thomas said he believed that it was all due to a misunderstanding. Mr W. O. Brigstocke, who was partially inaudible to the press, was understood to say that the matter ought now to be dropped. Mr John Johns said that Mr Brigstoeke would not let it drop so easily if he had had such a charge levelled against himself. Mr Brigstoeke was proceeding to explain when Mr Johns said Excuse me, I am on my feet, Mr Brigstocke (laughter). The Chairman said he was not present at that meeting, although his name had been recorded in the minute book. He wished to have his name struck out. It might be that that meeting would be proceeded against. The matter then dropped. THE FELIXBAX BRIDGE. A communication was read from the Laugharne Parish Council asking the assist- Laugharne Parish Council asking the assist- ance of the Co'mty Council towards erecting a bridge over the ford at Felinban, The Chairman said that this was a matter wiucU ought to be referred to the Main Roads Committee. Several members apparently agreed to this proposal. Dr Thomas asked when the next meeting of the Main Roads Committee would be held. The Chairman In July. Dr Thomas said that the matter ought not to be put off until July. It was a very ■small thing and the dry weather was the time to build the bridge. The bridge would be a great improvement to the main road. Mr John Phillips also objected to the putting off of the matter until July. If they did so, it would probably be too late in the season before they were able to commence work. The Chairman We are not to be blamed for that. It ought to have come before the last meeting of the Main Roads Committee. Since you have neglected it, we cannot help it. Dr. Thomas It is not a matter of neglect on my part. It has only been brought to my notice very lately. Would I be in a position to movo a motion on the subject ? The Chairman According1 to the Stand- ing Orders, no member is allowed to speak on the same subject more than once. Mr John Johns I really believe, Mr Chairman, this Council- The Chairman It has been settled. The matter then dropped. It was under- stood to have been referred to the next meet- ing of the Main Roads Committee. 0 AN APPLICATION FOR A PENSION. A letter was read from Miss Bryan, the ex-matron of the Carmarthen Prison, which was referred to in our report of the Easter Quarter Sessions. It will be remembered that Miss Bryan had served a year under the old regime before the prisons were taken over by the Home Office. She asked the County Council to make up the deficiency in her pension, which had been caused by the two scales which wero in force under different rvgimes. The Clerk explained that the Council was empowered to make up the pension to equal two-thirds of the salary. If they did so, they would pay her £ 27 Is, instead of £ 1 0s 2d—making her total pension £ 55. There were certain particulars—such as a recommendation from tha Visiting Committee which would have to be furnished before the Council could move in the matter. Sir James Hills-Johnes moved that the applicant be informed as to the details which sho was required to furnish and that these bo brought before the next meeting of the Finance Committee to report to the next meeting of the County Councii. This was agreed to nem. con. FINANCE. Mr H. J. Davies, chairman ofte Finance Committee, moved That the Budget bo 1, 1 In adopted, and that a Special County Rate of 4d in the £ on the new Special County Assessment, and 2d in the £ on the General County Assessment (including id for Intermediate Education, and d for Technical 2 Education be levied), and that the rates be made payable as follows :—Id in the £ on the Special County Assessment, to be levied loth June, 1803 Ü in the t on the General County Assessment, to be levied 15th June, 1SU8 hi iú the £ 011 the Special County Assessment, to be levied 15th September, 1898 ) J. iu the £ oa the Creiieral County Assessment (Intermediate Education), to be levied 15th September, 1898 Id in the £ on the Special County Assessment, to be levied 15th December, 1898; id in the £ on the General County Assessment (Technical Education), to be levied 15th December, 1898 Id in the £ on the Special County Assessment, to be levied 15th March, 1899; id in the £ on the General County Assess- ment, to be levied 15th March, 1899." .,1 This was duly seconded, and carried nem. con. THE MUZZLING ORDER. Mr C. E. Morris moved a resolution calling for a revocation of the muzzling order as far as Carmarthenshire was concerned. This was seconded by Mr W. N. Jones, and carried unanimously. ADDITIONAL DISTRICT COUNCILLORS. The Joint Committee which consulted with Pembrokeshire rocommended that one additional District Councillor be granted to each of the following parishes Llangan East, Ilanboidy East, and Llandissilo. This was agreed to. THE LAW AS TO ROADSIDE WASTES. The committee, which met to consider the case of the ownership of the plot of land which the Council had leased to the post- master of Llanarthney, brought up their report. This committee was advised by the Clerk that in view of the case of "Curtis j v. the Kesteven County Council," it would be well to have Counsel's opinion on the point. The Clerk said that this case which arose in one of the divisions of Lincolnshire had revolutionised the law on tho subject altogether. It was then decided that the herbage on the roadside, even within the fences, belonged to the landowner. Mr W. N. Jones I move that we proceed no further with the case. I do not think that we ought to go to law for the sake of three or four shillings. The Chairman said that if the law as referred to by the Clerk was correct, the County Council were not entitled to have any of the stone depots which they had at present on the roadside. The Clerk said that if that were so, too, the Surveyors had no right to cut the turf off the roadside wastes as they did, and to carry it elsewhere. Mr W. N. Jones asked if this referred to the plots on the side ot the road, or simply to the hedges by the roadside. The Clerk: To any piece of land by the side of the road. Dr. Thomas said that they were now in this position that Lord Cawdor and the Ecclesiastical Commissioners as Lords of the Manor might institute an action in the matter. He was told that an old pound had stood on the spot. Mr John Johns said that if the law re- ferred to by the Clerk was correct, the Local Government Board had issued an illegal order since that, to the District Councils telling these bodies that they owned the roadside wastes. Mr W. N. Jones moved that the matter be referred to the Parliamentary Committee. This was agreed to. THE REMUNERATION OF RELIEV- ING OFFICERS. Mr Ben Evans moved—" That the scale of fees adopted by tue County Council under Sec. 48 Sub-Sec. 7 of the Local Government Act, 1894) payable to Return- ing Officers for conducting Parish and District Council Elections be revised, and that the fees payable to Returning Officers in uncontestod Parish Council Elections be named therein." In moving the resolution, Mr Evans said that the returning officers sometimes charged XI Is. for uncontested parochial elections, and 5s in other cases. The Chairman said that in such cases the officer was not entitled to make any charge. Mr Evans said that in his district the Parish Council was charged a guinea. Mr John Lloyd You ought not to pay it. Mr Evans We don't (laughter).—Mr Evans then went on to review the scale at present in force in the county and what he considered as several anomalies in it. Mr W. O. Brigstoeke seconded, and the motion was carried by a large majority. The matter was referred to the Local Government Committee, to which the name of Mr B. Evans was added for the occasion. THE POLICE AND EXTRANEOUS DUTIES. The report of the Committee on the employment of police-constables as inspectors of weights and measures was before the meeting. Mr W. X. Jones said he was sorry that the Standing Joint Committee, had eliminated from their report the words which stated that the present system had not interefered with the etiiciency of the force. He moved that the report be adopted in its entirety, as the opinion of the County Council. Mr John Johns said that these men, although not usually employed as policemen, were always at tne disposal of the Chief Constable in a case of emergency. Dr Thomas said that it did interfere with the efficiency of the force when some members were employed during the whole or a greater part of their time at other duties. It was decided by 21 votes to 7 to accept the report as amended by the Standing Joint Committee. THE LLAXELLY CORONER AGAIN The question of the remuneration of Mr W. Buckley Roderick, the coroner for the Three Commotts, again came up for consideration. On this occasion it came ill the form of a letter from the Secretary of State, who enclosed the application which had been forwarded to him by Mr Roderick, and in which the latter asked the Home Secretary to revise the salary, as lie and the County Couucil had been unable to come to an agreement. The letters and the enclosures were of an extremely voluminous and bulky character. The Home Office asked for the observations of the County Council on the subject. Mr W. O. Brigstocko said he did not see why the Council should go back on what they had already done. He was in favour of the increase to Mr Roderick; but he thought they would be stultifying them- selves if they now reversed their action after having thoroughly and carefully considered it. The Chairman said that one statement in Mr Roderick's letter was incorrect-relating to the revision of 1894. The salaries of the three coroners were revised in 1894 on the information furnished by these gentlemen themselves it was true that the County Council had not adopted tho recommendation of the committee on the subject. Mr James John was proceeding to make an observation on the subject, when Mr John Lloyd pointed out that Mr James John, as a Borough member, had no right to speak on tho subject. Mr James John said that in that case the Chairman had no right to speak on the subject. The Chairman I have a right to speak as the chairman because tho Council might elect an outsider as chairman. I have no vote; but I have a casting vote. I am very sorry to correct a lawyer but that is the law (laughter). Mr John Johns It is all nonsense to write such a thing to the Home Secretary. j Mr John Lloyd: The best reply we can send to the Home Secretary is that we ask him to send in his resignation. 1 Mr Davies, Glausawdde, seconded, ) The Chairman said he declined to put that motion. It did not come within the province of the Council. They did not appoint Mr Roderick. Mr John Lloyd We pay him. We don't command it we recommend it. We recommend him to send in his resignation, if he is not satisfied with the salary he is paid.—Mr Lloyd then pointed out that Mr Roderick was paid at the rate of ^1 14s or £1 15s per inquest. He was paid better than the other coroners and the expense of travelling was less in his district and the railway facilities had greatly improved since 1861, when the salary was fixed. They had had a little of the history of the appoint- ment; of how a few had pressed the acceptance of the office on Mr Roderick when he did not want it. It was quite in accordance with experience that a person did not appreciate an honour which he had thrust upon him. In a town like Llanelly they would have plenty of well-qualified applicants to-morrow if the appointment were vacant and £100 offered as the salary. He, therefore, moved that if Mr Roderick was not satisfied with his salary, that he be recommended to resign, and that the Home Secretary be informed to that effect. Mr John Rees, seconded. Mr John Johns said that if he were in Mr Roderick's position he would rather resign than be causing such divisions in the Council. The Mines and the Workshops Regulation Acts had lessened the work of the coroner and the improved railway facilities had decreased his expenses. Mr Wilkins regretted that the matter was fought on the grounds of personal feeling; and that the County Council was made a laughing-stock in the eyes of the world (Mr Lloyd Question). He appealed to members to consider the question seriously and not to have any giggling and laughing over it (laughter). Mr W. X. Jones said he was in favour of an increase all-round; and he had ruled at Llandilo that no revision had taken place in 1894 and lie still thought that a revision made then wonld have been illegal as a quinquennial period had not been completed. He moved that the Council reply to the Home Secretary that the statements in Mr Roderick's letter were substantially correct. The Chairman moved that the Clerk and a committee draft a reply to the letter. Mr John Lloyd pointed out that his was the only motion which had been seconded. Mr W. O. Brigstoeke moved that the Council state as its opinion that any revision at the present time would be illegal, and that the Council did not agree with the law as laid down by Mr Roderick. Mr David Davies, Llandebie, seconded. The motion of Mr Lloyd was carried by 14 votes against 5. GOOD FOR LLANFYNYDD! Mr H. J. Thomas handed in a statement showing that there was X800 now in the bank, which had been collected by the locality for the proposed Dryslwyn Bridge. THE POSITION OF THE MARKETS. Rev W. Thomas moved: "That this Council requests all our Veterinary Inspectors to report forthwith on the sanitary condition of all places throughout the County where markets and fairs are held, and to state distinctly whether they are held within areas infected by pleuro- pneumonia, foot and mouth diseases, that we may have sufficient information to com- municate further with the Board of Agri- culture, re their orders to close up markets and to discontinue fairs within the area of our jurisdiction as a Council In doing so, the rev gentleman referred at length to the great damage and loss which the proposed stoppage of the fairs would do to the trade of the county. Dr R. L. Thomas seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously. CONDOLENCE. The Chairman moved a vote of condolence with the family of the late Mr W. S. Marsh, a member of the Council. This was seconded by Mr Joseph Mayberry, and carried unanimously. THE POSITION OF CLERKS OF THE PEACE. Mr H. Jones Davies moved That this Council desires to express its sympathy with a Bill brought before Parliament this Session by Mr Luttrell and others to amend the law with regard to Clerks of the Peace and Clerks of the County Council." In moving, Mr Davies explained that the new bill would place the appointment of the Clerks of the County Council in the hands of the County Council instead of in the hands of the Standing Joint Committee, as at present. Mr Davies, Giansawdde, seconded the motion, which was carried nem. con. THE CENTRAL OFFICE. Mr John Lloyd moved That the resolu- tion of this Council as to a Central Office be now carried into effect." Mr Lloyd reminded the Council that it was now some years since the resolution was adopted, although nothing more had been heard of it except the build- ing of the strong room at Carmarthen. Carmarthen and Llaneliy had their municipal offices; but the largest county in Wales had no such omce-cxcept a solicitor's premises at the extreme end of the county. The treasurer had had his salary increased from £ 120 to £ 25(i because of this resolution he had had the additional salary; but had not como to the Central Office. Rev W. Thomas seconded the motion, which was carried mi". The following committee WH, appointed to deal with the matter — The Chairman Me.-srs W. O. Brigstoeke, Gwilyiu Evans, J. S. Tregoning, John Thomas John Johns, H. J. Davies, and John Lloyd. OTllEli MATTEKS. The fullowing notices were bruught before the Council at the close when most of the members had gone :— A notice was given by Mr C. E. Morris that he would move for a return showing the inquests which have occurred in the several divisions of Carmarthenshire since the 25th July, 1894, distinguishing those held by the Coroners themselves from those held by the Deputies, and showing in each of such last named cases the reason which has prevented the personal attendance of the Coroner." A notice given by Professor D. E. Jones that he would move, to rescind that part of Standing Order 13 relating to a quorum of committees, and re-adopt it thus, "A quorum of each committee shall consist of three members." These motions were understood to be carried.