The Carmarthen Weekly Reporter

THE LATEST POLITICAL CRAZE. IT now turns out that our American relatives have been all along hungering for an alliance with England. We arc not surprised at it. There arc many relatives of that kind to be met with. They amuse themselves by doing all they can to annoy and belittle one, but when they become nice and friendly, and tell you that "blood is thicker than water," you may depend on it that they have discovered a method of making you serve their own interests. This is the American case exactly. Whenever it suits American politicians to tout for the votes of the scum of the population by flinging abuse at Britain, they do not hesitate to address Her Majesty's ministers in language which is only suited to a low-class bar-room. This is the prevalent tone of American politics; but now with a war on hand, and the neutral" Powers in a state of semi-hostility, England is worth cultivating. Possibly all that is best in America is favourable to England. But then the best do not rule in America. The professional wire-pullers, the saloon-keepers who deal in votes, and the dynamiters and assassins of Chicago-who are the real power in the land—regard England with the 0 greatest hatred. This is something for England to be proud of. It is possible that America will improve in its politics but as long as the scum rules Congress, so long is the Anglo-Saxon Alliance a wild dream. It is easy to see why the alliance is sought. The whole navy of the United States is about equal to one of the flying squadrons" which Great Britian has in every sea of the world. America can fight Spain-and Spain alone. America is, of course, a free country, in which the military arc called out to shoot down working-men on strike, in which negroes are roasted alive, and in which no z-, murderer ever is hanged if he has got b "influence." America is not ground down by a hereditary nobility the grinding-down is all done by insufferable parvenus, who have made money in pork. If the real American people shakes itself free from the horrible OLD MAN OF THE SEA which is strangling it, Anglo-Saxon alliance is a possibility in the present state of American politics, such an alliance is neither practicable nor desirable.

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE. THE Rev J. C. Evans, of Lampoter, hus accepted the pastorate of the Libanus Methodist Church, Borth. THE Rev D. Pietcn Evans has received a call to the pastarate of Philadelphia Church (C.M.), Morriston. ECCLESIASTICAL INTKLLIGKNCH.—The Rev J. Daniel, B.A., senior curate of Carmarthen, has been appointed curate of St. Michael's Church, Aberyfrtwith. 'k,Lr Evan Walter Thomas, of the Presbyterian College, Carmarthen, eldest son of Mr J. W. Thomas, Lampeter, has received an invitation to the pastorate of PJbenezer Congregational Chapel, Ctfn, Merthyr Tydfil. MARKETS, Saturday.—Another large market of butter demand greatly increased since the last reduction demand so great, which caused an advance of fully id per lb. We quote from Sd to Ud per lb, quality choice. Cheese The demand good several lots were sold at from 23ci to 2tb per cwt. FOUTIICOMIXG MARRIAGE —The marriage arranged between PIJSC. eldest son of lr Llcweilyn Lloyd Lloyd, D.L J P., (if C-langwili, and ilary Isabel Lloyd, only child of the lato John Lloyd Pierce and of Mrs Pieice, Wuodb >ume, Cambeiley, Surrey, will tike place at Christ Church, Lanoaster- gatc, on the 15th of June, at half-past two o'clock. THE TOWN COUNCIL VACANCY.—Tuesday was the nomination day for the vacancy in the Council caused by the death of Mr Daniel Jones. Mr Edward Rhys Evans, of 1, Dark-gate, was nominated by Mr George Bagnall, and seconded by Mr Thomas Thomas, Disgwylfa. No other candidate being proposed, Mr Evans was returned unopposed. SWINE FEVER OltDEr,The London Gazette of Friday night contained an order issued by the Board ct Agriculture, notif) ing that, on aud after the 27th inst., tho undermentioned districts of local authorities will be subject to the Swine Fever Movement Order of 181)8 :—County of Carmarthen, Borough of Carmarthen, County of Glamorgan, Borough of Cardiff, Neath, und Swansea, County of Monmouth, and Borough of Newport. CARMARTHENSHIRE INFIRMARY.—The Secretary begs respectfully to acknowledge -.cccii)t of the following £ 250 from executors of lato Mr E R Morris, Llangoedmore; proceeds of Infirmary Satuiday at Llandilo, per Mrs Roderick, Brynamiwg, Llandilo, £3;) flowers and fruit from Mr J Miller, Parade parcels of papers from Miss E Williams, Waunifor. and Mr W Spurrell, King- street mediciuo bottles from Miss Scott, Llanetephan; and úJfOO large box of flowers gathered by Llanstephan School-children. GOOD TEMPLARS.—The membeis of the Independent Order of Good Templars held their weekly meeting on Friday evening at the Assembly- rooms, when the presidnt (Mr Walter Thomas, Presbyterian College) occupied the chair. After a short address by the Chairman, the following took part in tho proce(,(Iiii,s :-AddresEes by Messrs Rheidiol Davie?, D H Williams, James Parry, and recitations by Miss Pollie Davies and Mr David Ilopkin; aild a solo by Mr Lloyd Jones. Tho meceting terminated with the customary vote of thanks. ANNIVERSARY SERVICES AT LAMMAS-STREET CHAPEL.-The usual anniversary services were held at the Lammas-street Chapel this week. Meetings were held on Sunday morning and ovelling; and also Monday evening. The ministers who preached were the Reo; D G. Williams. Bethlehem. St Clears, and the Rev Elias Davies, Siioah, Llnnelly. There ,ere large congregations at all the meetings, and the weli- known preachers in the pulpit quite fulfilled the high expectations which had been formed of them. The collectionB--which were in aid of the debt on the school—were satisfactory. INSTITUTE OF CHEMISTRY ASO Till., UNIVERSITY OF WALES.—-The council of the Institute of Chemistry has rcceutly placed the Lnifersity of Wales on the list of universities whoso degrees with honours in chemistry shall exempt a candidate from the necessity of passing the institute s intermediate examination for its associateship. his will enable a student who hastakcnab.be. (honours) iu the University of Wales to proceed to A,I.C., after passing but one additional examination. As ifc i8 not that tho possession of the diploma of A.I.C. will ultimately become necessary tor those who wish to practice as analytical chemists, this concession is is likely to be increasingly utilised by university glldllats. BltAKE ACCIDENT.-On Thursday morning an accident occurred in Lammas-street which, happily, end.d without mishap to anyone have a little damage to tIt brake itself. A party from St. Clears who intended competing at White Mill Eisteddfod, were being driven down L;\mmas-stteet when 0110 of the back wheels broke down. Save for a little fright the party were none the worse. WEDDINU AT I.LANLLWCH. —A pretty wedding took phtce at Llaullwch Church on Saturday, at I 8.30 a.ui and in spite of the quietness of the arruugemcnts, a large congregation was present. The bride wss Miss Marian Footman, youngest daughter of Mr Robert Footman, Ilaiodwen, aud tho bridegroom Mr Walter Griffiths, youugeet son of Mr John Giiliiths, Lhvynpiod, Abergwili. The ceremony w, -i performed by the Vicar (the Rev Jonathan Marsden, B. D.). The bride, who was given away by her father, was attired in a grey tailor-made dress with whits silk blouse, trimmad with chiffon and hat to match. Tho happy couple were saluted with showers of rice and iiowers by well-wishers as they ieft the church aud after the usual wedding breikfast proceeded by the 10 o'clock train to London, where the honeymoon will be spent. DEATH OF I1{¿ rEl,S.-We sincerely regret to record the death of Mrs Jenneth Rees, wife of Mr Thomas Rees, formerly of the Butchers' Arms, which took place at her residence in John-street. Carmarthen, on Wednesday. The deceased, who was GG years of ago, had been ailing for about thr^e mothd tud during the last few days her friends learned with profound regret that her life was, indeed, a matter of days. Mrs Rees was a faithful member of the English Baptist Church, and was highly respoctcd by a very large circle of frisnds. Ry her death many people in Carmarthen and neighbourhood feel that they have lost a true and sincere friend. The deceastd leaves five daughters and two sons, as well as her husband, to mourn her losi and the greatest sympathy is felt with them in their alffiction. The funeral, which will be public—for men only—takes place at 2 p.m. on Monday. No flowers (by request). PEXUEL SCHOOLROOM.—On Tuesday evening a concert was held, in connection with the Myrddin Choir, who are competing at White Mill Eisteddfod just as we are going tn press for the chief choral test chorus, "BJdd melus gofio y cyfammod." The chorus was rendered with very good affect to open and close the concert. Tho following was the programme gone tlirouglt :-Solo, "lUyti ¡;y'n magu'r Baban," Miss Esther Jones (encored) solo, Can y fam i'w phlentyn," Miss L A llodges (encored) solo, The Song that reached my Heart." Mr Fred Howe; recitation, "Y Barca Olaf," Mr Tom Thomas eolo, The Toilers," Miss May Jones, quartette, Misses Bcs&ic Dalits and Edith Williams,and Messrs D N Jones and Elimfab; solo, Star of Bethlehem," Miss Tollie Jones; quartette, Misses May Jones, Pollie Jones, and Messrs D N Jones and Albert Thomas solo, The Wreck," Mr D J Jeremy party, Messrs L Griffith3, May John, Bessie Davies, and Edith Williarrs, and Messrs D N Jones, Datid Davies, Albert Thomas (the conductor being Mr D J Jeremy). The Rev J C Griffiths carried out the duties of chairman, and was accorded a hearty vote of thank3 at the close. The accompanists were Miss Cadvun Jones and Mr Archie Hodgos. WEATHER AND Tm; Cuolls.-It is especially difficult just now to speak with anything like decision concerning growing crops. The winter tares and rye have grown well, and are fully up to an average prsmise for green feed, while the wheat is almost too thicK in the ground, and has but seldom gone off in colour. On the other hand night frosts and harsh winds must have been prejudicial, and the season is now rather backward than forward. No warmth, no wheat, and a date has been reached when midday temperature of under 50 degrees almost amounts to an agricultural calamity. The markets of the 9th, 10th, and 11th were strong and in sellers' favour, but on the 12th a somewhat less general tendency to advance was shown, and the 13th and 14th brought the week to a close with some increase in readiness to sell. The market for flour is now bare of Australian, Russian, and Argentine samples, and the spring corn trade shows some slight reaction in the case of maize. London niarket, is 3d dearer for foreign oats, and English qualities are HC".ree, and command high rates. Foreigh barley maintain firmer quotations, whilst English show some advance —Mark Lane Expres*. A RKVIVAL IN JEWELLERY.—It is curious to notice how the Diamond Jutaioo has left its impress on the majority of (ashions whether they rtlate to uress, millinery, or jewellery, all of which have lately showed a tendency to repeat the principal features which characterised the early Victorian peiiod. Many people will, doubtless be able to cull to mind the pretty turq,cigo Pave jewellery, so much affected by the ladies of fashion duiing the earlier portion of her Majesty's reign. This fashion has been revived, with modifications adapted to more modern tastes, by Mesrs J. NV Benson, of 25, Old Bond Street, and 02 aId 64 Ludgate Hiil, London. The ornaments consist of clusters of email turquoise set cn maxxc, the setting, which by the way is silver, being barely visible, the whole effect being exceedingly handsome. A heart-shape is the favourite form for the setting to take but circles are also largely en evidence, and form a very handsome centrepiece for a brooch or bracelet. Some of the daintiest of these gems are set in small double hearts, where they form a charming finish to a narrow gold curb bracelet. The popularity of the turquoise will certainly take a new lease of life from this interesting revival, and the hall mark of the ultra-fashionable will be one of these quaint bits of jewellery either on the wrist or at the throat Ladies Payers. 1ST VOLUNTEER BATTALION THE WELSH REGIMENT (II.) COMPANY. —Orders for the week ending Saturday, May 28th, 1898. Officer for the week, Second Lieutenant James John. Company orderlies, Sergeant A Davies and Corporal Thomas Davies. Orderly bugler, C L Jonts. Parades, $e.: Class firing on Monday, Friday, and Saturday, from 2 p.m. Rccruits' drill on Tuesday, Wednes- day, and Friday, at 7.30 pm. Adjutant's parade on" Monday, the 23rd inst at 7."0 p.iii. drill order. Club shoot on Thursday commencing at 2.0 p.m. Dress for Adjutant's parade Officers, red scrgo patrole and field service caps other ranks, uniform, field service caps, arms and side arms, cue poch, worn in eontre of back. Band and cyclists to aitc-(]. The Officer Commanding hns been pleased to make the following promotions and appointments, namely :—To be Sergeant, No. 1929, Corporal J W Davies to be Lance Sergeant, No. 267.'), Corporal C Whiteeak to be Corporals, No. 1339, Private J aer, and No. 2509, Lance Corporal J T Davies to be L-iiiec Corporal, No. 31o5, Private Thomas Tnomas all dated May 9th, 1898. The following non-commissioned officers and men obtained proticency certificates at the recent examination held by the adjutant on May !)th;- 1st, Private Saer 2nd, Corporal J W Davies 3rd, Corporal C Whiteoak 4th, Private Thomas Thomas 5th, Lance Corporal J T Davies Gth, Lance Corporal W Morris—By order, W BUCKLEY RODERICK, Major, Commanding II Company.

Death of a Welsh Centenarian. A centenarian Welshwomen, Mrs Phoebe Allen, who died on Sunday, had learnt to be passing rich on sixpence a day. She lived at Jeffreyston, in South Pembrokeshire, was in her 103rd year, and resided in a little two-roomed thatched cottage on 3s 6d a week allowed her by the parish. Her rent was fifteen shillings a year. She was a cheerful and smart little woman, and, apparently, always happy. Her intellect was as sharp as her eye, which was to the last dayendoweed with such sight that she could see to thread a needle. She never wore a pair of spectacles in her life, but read English and Welsh without difficulty. Her birth is registered in an old family Bible. She said recently, I was born at Kiffig, in Carmarthenshire, 011 the 14th of June, 1795." She was almost free from illness during her long life, excepting the ailments ot child- hood, and the fact that a few years ago, on 11 the death of her husband, who was twenty- seven years younger than she was, she passed through a mysterious sort of trance, which lasted for about a week. Her married life extended over a period of sixty- one years. Nine of her children are dead, but there is a married daughter living at Preston, in Lancashire. There are so many grandchildren that it would take some time to count them in fact, this wonderful old lady was a great-great great-grandmother, i.e., her granddaughter is a grandmother. She saw great changes in her time. When she was fourtecen years of age she became a farm-servant at the munificent wage of thirty shillings a year, for which she had to perform the duties of harrowing, ploughing, thatching, and threshing. She remembered tea sold at 0 eight shillings a pound and salt at sixpence. When she married, her husband earned fourteen pence a day on the farm, and she got sixpence a day. Mrs Allen was a Church- woman, but latterly was too feeble to attend any place of worship. She rose regularly, at eight o'clock every morning, and v.\t all day in her armchair by the old fashioned fire- place.

Whitland Intermediate School. ENTRANCE EXAMINATION SCHOLARSHIPS. TEN ENTRANCE EXAMINATION JL SCHOLARSHIPS, viz., FIVE for the Whitland School District and FIVE for the St. Clears School District, which will consist of total exemption from the Tuition Fees for tho year, will be awarded on the result of the Examination, which will be held on Saturday, 2i)th June, IS!); Time: 10.0 a.m. to 12. oO p.m. and 1.30 p.m. to 3 p.m.. JLhe Examination will be held in two centres, viz., Intermediate School, Whitland, and Ulasfryn Board School St. Clears, and will be open to all children residing in the Whitland and St. Clears Intermediate School District, who have attended any Elementary Schools for the last three years. THE MANAGERS HAVE POWER TO PLACE AX ADDITIONAL SUM OF MONEY TO THE SciIOLAKSHIPS TO MEET INCIDENTAL EXPENSES. Bursaries will also be granted under Clause no of the Educational Scheme, Sect. B., The maintenance in the County Schools of Bursaries consisting of payments of an amount estimated to be sufficient to cover the expenses of travelling to and from the School, and of books and btationery, and other incidental School Expenses of Scholars from Public Elementary Schools." These Bursaries shall be awarded by the School Managers to those applicants who, in their opinion, shall from their pecuniary circumstances be most in need of them, and not on the result of an examination. The subjects ot examination to all, irrespective of age. will be Standard VI. work (Education Code, 1897), but the Geography of Standard IV., V or VI. can be taken at the option of the Caiididatei. Girls to take Geography or Needlework at option, but to state which when sending in their names. Prizes will also be given at the end of the term. School Fees, B3 per year El per term. Candidates should send in their name, at once, to the Secretary of the Managers, but not later than the 18th cf Jure, 1808, from whom also all further information can be obtained. J. GRIFFITHS REES, Secretary. Whitland, S. Wales, 12th May, 1S08. TOWN M AND RE. MESSRS. LLOYD & THOMAS are instructed to SELL by AUCTION at the Manure Yard, near the Gas Wurks. Carmarthen, on Saturday, the 28th day of May, 180S. at Two o'clock p.m., all the Town and Slaughter House Manure. CARMARTHEN GRAND ATHLETIC SPORTS. To he held in the BAIL TV A Y TAVERN FIELD, on WHIT-JIONDA Y, MAY 30th, 1898. THE Entries close on Monday, May 23rd. Entry Forms may be obtained on application to the Hon. Sees., Messrs. THEO. ROGERS and HERBERT A. WILLIAMS,'Lammas-street, Carmarthen. HOUSE TO LET, 15, UNION-STREET. A CONVENIENT House, large Rooms, and fitted A with Gas. Newly decorated throughout. Immediate possession can bo had.-Apply 2, Queen- street, Carmarthen. TO BE LET, toe PENYBONT INN, Llanginning, near St. Clears.—Apply, Buckk-y's Brewery, Limited, Llanelly. FOR SALE OR TO LET, with immediate possession, convenient STABLES and two COACH-HOUSES, situate in Wood's-row, Carmar- then, formerly in the occupation of Mr Stephen Morgan.- For further particulars apply to Miss Lewis, Fern Cottage, Johnstown, Carmarthen. CLIFTON, BRISTOL, and WESTON-SUPER- MARE.—Houses (Furnished and Unfurnished), Businesses, Khops. Printed lists free ftom Lalonde Bros. and Parham, House Agents and Removal Contractors, Clifton and Weston-super-Mare. MAIL CART for SALE, as new, take two children, both sitting or one laying and one sitting; latest improvements; used only once or twice; re:1sons for selling; seen any time. "G," Reporter Office, Carmarthen. WANTED a good GENERAL SERVANT.— Apply, 1<>, Guildhall-square, Carmarthen. tl/« BLUE-STREET.—TO BE LET as Dwvlling- house or Offices.—Apply by letter to Isaac, Fernhill, near Carmarthen. COMFORTABLE APARTMENTS TO LET; Sitting-room and one or two Bedroom" as required.—Apply, A., Reporter Office, Carmarthen. EMPTY WINE CASKS for SALE of various sizes.—For particulars apply to Messrs. Brigstocke & Son, IViiie and Spirit Merchants, Carmarthen.

DEATH OF MR GLADSTONE. AS wo go to press we learn that Mr William Ewart Gladstone died at IIawarden on Thursday at 5 a.m. The intelligence of this sad event has been expected for some time it was, indeed, hourly looked for during ths present week. Now that the end has come, every friend of humanity acknowledthat a great, a mighty, and a good man has been removed from amongst us. Gladstone was without doubt tho most notable European statesman of tho century. Other statesmen have their monuments in huge battle. fields bestrewn with the scattered fragments of thousands of their fellow-men. But the mighty spirit of Hawarden will be remembered by the good he did to the Irish peasant, by the enfranchise- ment of the people in the Ballot Act, and by his fearless denunciation of Ottoman tyranny, which resulted in the liberation of the Balkan Christians. Christianity with him was no mere academic opinion it was a rule of life. N u one who has the s lg i est belief in Divine Piovidenoo can close hlB eyes o t 'Q fact that the Great Power which rule* t/io ^inverse ruis^s up at times, such men to carry out His design,, for the tcmpural Balvnli,,n 0f the human i <• '■* oclof aii the instruments in the hands Jor ^veiling un the bulk of humanity, air «' yas the greatest of the century, llis loM.» oathjmcity in rtijgion> hiH profound toholatc-lup, llS to conscience, and the phenomenal range ol subjects on which he was an authority, enabled him to view the questions of the day, apart from that petty envirolainent of personal, local, or party interest, eo characteristic of many of the pigmy polilicans of too tines. He was a Christian in private h.e; and his Christianity was never laid aside iu the Cabinet or in the House of Cornmons. lis enjoyed the nnparalled distinction of being four times Prime Minister of England. He had celebrated his 88th birthday, and yet until tho advent of his fatal illness a few months ago his memory was as clear and his intellect as keen as in his middle-age. He never did his country aught bnt good ;and he never let pass an opportunity of ameliorating the condition of the poor and the lowly. Not alone the sorrowing family at Hawaiden, but humanity Itself is bereaved. As Shakespeaie Bijs of Brutus— Tli* 4,q»8 was the noblest Roman of them all. His gentle and the elements And BavV11 hiin thjlt might stand up y all the world, This WAS A MAW.'

| LAWS AND BYE-LAWS. As will be seen from a discussion which took place at Saturday's meeting of the Carmar- then Rural District Council, the builders of the neighbourhood are already beginning to "teel the pinch" in regard to the new bye- laws which have recently been approved by the Local Government Board. These bye- laws would seem to be in advance of their time-for the Chairman stated at the meeting that very few of the farm-houses in his neighbourhood would satisfy their require- ments. Of course, if a new state of things is never begun, the old condition will remain for ever but under the present circum- stances some little leniency might be advisable in the administration of the I regulations. Nobody can take a walk along 1 0 any road in Carmarthenshire without passing dwelling-houses which have fallen into ruins and if the Council is induced to insist on cast- iron regulations, it is to be feared that few- new houses will be erected, and that the population of the rural parts of the district wiil proceed with accelerated rapidity. After all, rules are made to benefit human beings; human beings were not made that they might become subjects for the regulations of Boards and Councils, and Medical Officers, and Surveyors, and Inspectors. There are possibly some respects in which the bye-laws might be administered with leniency without danger to anybody and it would be better for the Council to agree upon some such modus vivendi. Something of the sort is desirable, for it is evident that there is no enthusiasm whatever on the subject amongst the members of the District Council.

Carmarthenshire County Council. SPECIAL MEETING AT CARMARTHEN. THE PROPOSED BRIDGE FOR DRYSLWYX. PLANS ALL REJECTED. MR. CODRINGTON TO BE EMPLOYED. A special 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 :—Messrs Joseph Joseph, Llan- gennech H. Jones Davies, Glyneiddan .John Thomas, Thornhill David Evans, Llangennech Park W. X. Jones, Tirydail John Johns, Parccithin T. Watkins, Llan- dovery Daniel Stephens, Kidwelly T. F. Jones, Conwil Caio Ben Evans, Rhydycymmerau J. Ll. Thomas, Llan- fynydd C. E. Morris, Penbryn T. E. Brigstocke, Carmarthen Thomas Phillips, Llanelly James John, Carmarthen David Davies, Iiiiiblyd \V. Davies, Llang-adock J. 11. Rees, Pembrey David Evans, Pembrey W. David, Llanelly W. O. Brigstocke, Parc-y-gorsc; J. LI. Thomas, Tanlan John Lewis, Meiros Hall Col. Gwynne-Hughes, Glancotlii Dr. R. L. Thomas, St. Clears Messrs Jenkins, Alltycadno W. Powell Jeffreys, Cynghordy the clerk (Mr T. Jones\ the Surveyors (Mr Daniel Phillips and Mr Bowen Davies1, and the Deputy- treasurer (Mr H. Peel Price). The report of Mr T. Codrington, of Twickenham, an engineer employed by the Local Government Board, on the plans which were prepared for bridging the ford at Dryslwyn was considered. The five plans were by (1) Messrs Arnold and Herbert, (2) Mr I). Jenkins, (3) Mr Griffiths, (4) Messrs Morgan and Son, (5) and Mr Morgan Davies. In the course of the report Mr Codrington said— Tho river Tovvy at and near the site of the proposed bridge is 150 to 170 feet wide between its bauks, and not more than four or five fr;et deep at its ordinary level but is subject to floods, some of which leach as much as 10 feet above that level. In these extreme floods not of frequent occurrence the land on the South side of the river is Hooded In this rcspect the river is the same for some distance above and below Dryslwyn. Llangathcn Bridge, 2 miles above, has three arches of 53 ft,, 5Gft. Gin., find 53ft. respectively, and no flood arches giving a total waterway of I62fi. Gin. Llandilo-Rhynws (sic) Bridge, 4 miles lower down the river, and below the confluence of the Cothi with the Towy, has three arches, each of 47ft. ¡<pm, with 11 J fluod arches, giving a total waterway of 1-1 lit. With reepect to the bottom at Drysllwyn it consists of gravel which certainly extends to a depth of 10 or 12 feet below summer water level, and may bo a good deal deeper. Messrs Arnold and Herberts' design is for an elliptical arch of 120 ft, span over the river and six Hood arches of 40, ;30, 20, 15, and 10 feet spans giving a total waterway of 235 feet. The estimated cost is £3,180 for a bridge 16 feet wide between the parapets, and £ 4.480 for a bridge 18 feet wide. No details are given, and the sufficiency of the estimate is open to doubt. In my opinion, a large span like this is unsuitable to the site of the proposed bridge. Mr D. Jenkins proposes a bridge of six segmental skew arches, the spans of which beginning from the north arc 80 feet, GO feet. 50 feet, 46 feet G in., and 42 feet respectively giving a waterway of 321 ft. The angle of skew of these arches is 30 degrees. The estimated cost is £4,000 for a bridge 18 feet between the parapets. No particulars are given by which the sufficiency of of this estimate can be checked. The arches are needlessiy wide, and the waterway provided is excess-ive. The design could not be carried out without very considerable modifications. Mr Griffiths design is for a bridge of three semi- elliptical skew arches. each of 55 feet span. The angle of skew is 12 degrees. The estimate is L5,077 for a bridge 20 feet wide between the parapets. It would ieein that the difficulties with to the foundation in gravel 1G leet below water-level hare not been fully appreciated and that the proper construction of sxew arches is not understood and the result cf building flat elliptical arches in courses parallel to the springing line has not been realised by the engineer. MeiOsrs Morgan and Sons send drawings for a btidge equare across the river, with three segmental arches of 55 fest span, arches of 7 feet span in each abutment, and on the south side 2 flood arches of IS feet span near the bridge and 2 openings of 10 feet above half way along the approach. I consider this manner of securing a foundation, which is estimated to cost £ 2.100, is inapplicable to the situation, and to what is known of the bed of the river. The arches are to be needlessly loaded by filling in the spendrils solid with masonry and concrete to above the levels. The estimate of cost is £ 2,100 piers and superstructure above water, £ 2,500; approaches, ;C750-total, ;C5,350. Mr Morgan Davies proposes a bridge with three segmental arches, each of GO feet span, and two flood arches of 12 feet opening. The arches of the bridge arc on the square but the bridge itself crosses the river at an angle of 20 degrees out of square. In two rflpectB this design compares favourably with the other four. In the first place, the bridge is not loaded by filling up the spenir.1-i solid but the roadway is carried by longitudinal walls with concrete arches between them. In tho second place, the south approach to the bridge is an embankment with stones, and is not supported by long retaining walls. The estimate is given in some detail, and the summary is Foundations, piling and concrete, 13" superstructure, £ 3,051) 2s flood arches, £ 183 2s approaches £;").j-! lis Gl; ten per c'nt. for continences, £ 510 lGs—total £ 5,G17 Go 11. This is for 0 bridge 20 feet wide between the parapets, A bridge built oti tue square slautivsg across t'ne river at an angle of 20 degrees would, in my opinion, be so unsightly that the design is, on that account, inadruissable. MHut from any consideration connected with the foundations. With respect to the latter there appears to be some uncertainty as to what is intended, and it, appears to me doubtful if this most important part of the design has been thoroughly thought out. Iu my opinion, the proper way to get in the foundation is that thown in a design for a masonry bridge at this place furnished by me to a committee in 1881, after a survey and examination ot the river and bed by Mr D Phillips and myself. To this design I beg to refer the present committee, to whom I shall be happy to afford any further information they may desire." [The above are merely extracts from the report.—ED., C. nR.J The Clerk also read a letter from Mr Codrington, from which it was understood that that gentleman was prepared to take five per cent on the outlay as payment for drawing the plans and superintending the work —The Clerk also said that he could not say where the plan of 1S81 was ii was said to have been in the possession of the late Earl Cawdor, but he could not find out its whereabouts. Mr W. O. Brigstoeke moved that they employ Mr Codrington to design the bridge It was most unsatisfactory to employ incompetent people at work of this kind. He remembered the county having a bitter experience of that kilid. They had an estimate of £5,000 for a bridge at Llandilo which cost £ 28,000 before it was finished. 'riie Cici-k I thought it was ^23,000. Mr W. N. Jones moved, as an amendment, that the competitors be afforded an opportunity of amending their plans in accordance with the views set forth by Mr Codrington. It might be that tho com- petitors had reason for suggesting different plans and they might be able to explain certain things so as to satisfy the Council. Mr John Lloyd in seconding Mr 1 Brigstocke's motion, said he did not see that it would be fair to pick Mr Codrington's brains on the cheap for the benefit of the senders of the other pans. Mr W. David seconded Mr W. N. Jones's amendment, which was rejected by four votes against nineteen. Dr Thomas moved another amendment to the effect that Mr Codrington be first asked to state approximately to the Council what the bridge would cost. This amendment had only five supporters; and Mr Brigstocke's motion was consequently carried.

CADBCKY'S COCOA is absolutely pure, being entirely free from kola, malt, hops, all.ali, or any foreign admixture. Caution The public should insist un having CADBUKY'S—sold only in Packets and Tins- a, other Cocoas are often substituted for the sake of extra profit.

Carmarthen Literary and Scientific Institute. ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS. The annual general meeting of the Carmarthen Literary aud Scientific Institute was held in the Reading-room on Wednesday. Mr James John (one of the vice-presidents) presided and there were nearly a hundred members present. j The Chairman in moving the adoption of the f report of the committee said that this was the 57th annual general meeting of the members of the Institute. To one paragraph in that report he directed special attention, "The committee regret to leport a considerable falling-cff in the number of members and trust that the present members will call the attention of the public to the advantages to be derived from the Institution." It would be seen by perusing the financial statement which accompanied the report that a certain minimum sum was required for the working of the Institution. Rent, rates, gas, insurances, etc., cost zC48 12s Gd other items brought up the amount to £ 77 5s 4d, so that there was only a sum of £ 50 available for the purchase of newspapers, periodicals, and books. The committee had been considerably hampered this year by the lack of funds the year commenced with a credit balance of £ 4 16s 3d, and ended with an adverse balance of iC I 5s 9d. Some, of course, would sy that tho committee should not have purchased a single new book but it could hardly be suggested that the sum expended represented anything like the number of new books which the committee ought to have purchaced. Some of the members had fought very hard for the addition of a Recreation Room to the Institute, where members would be at liberty to smoke but it had been fouud necessary to close up the room on account of the unruly conduct of the members who frequented it. Temporary closing had had no effect, as a remedy and the room was now clcsed permanently. The room was now let for the pnrnote of meetings and was to some extent a source of revenue to the Institution. Mr Henry Howell, in seconding, said that the Institution had been founded in tho year 1810 and during the whole of that time had been able to pay its way. lIe hoped in spite of the fact that there was a balance on the wrung side that they would be able to tide over their present difliculties without having recourse to the vested funds. In order to improve the financial condition of the Institution two courses were possible firstly, to economise the experditure and, secondly, to increase the membership. In regard to the first point, he would Bsy that the Institution ws now carried on as economically as possible, so it was only the second alternative which had to be considered. He did not believe that in a town of 10,600 inhabitants it would be impossible to gtt, at least, 100 new members if the advantages of the Institution were properly understood. The reading-room was supplied with 11 daily papers, 25 weeklies, and 12 monthlies and the library consisted of 4,000 volumes of high-class literature. Even the first- class members who subscribed 3s per quarter enjoyed all these advantages for two-fifths of a penny per day. A second-class member (2s per quarter) er.joyed all these privileges for something lees than a farthing per day Even those who only took out one book per month—each book worth say 3s—goot good valse for their money, But the librarian's book showed that one member had, during the course of the la--t year, taken out 60 volumes and two ladies each subscribing Is 61 per quarter took out 54 and 40 volumes respec- tively. To the inhabitants of Carmarthen—and especially to the young reople-the institution was a veritable Kloudyke. The larger the number of members the greater the number of books which it would be possible to purchase every year, and the more useful could the institution be made to the town. There had been a desire expressed by a good many members, at any rate, that the Reading-room should be opened for a part of Sunday (applause). It was now many years since the question had been discussed and had been defeated by a small majority. Since thtt time public opinion in regard to that and other matters had undergone a considerable change. In the large towns museums and art gaileries, and public libraries were opened on t Sunday, and the universal opinion was that nothing but good had resulted from that step (applause), j lie was one of those who believed that if this Reading-room were opened on a Sunday that nothing but good could come of it (applause) He believed that it would be the means of inereasiiig the membership, and would be to those who were already members a great convenience. The latler woud be particularly the case en a wet Sunday afternoon. There were lots of young men in Carmarthen who had no place to go to on a Sunday evening except to tramp up and down the streets and he believed that if the Reading-room were open on a net Sunday afternoon they would very much appreciate a place where they could come and shelter themselves and take up a periodical or read some useful book (applause). l,et it be remembered that all the literature which entered the room was of such a character that no one might be ashamed to read it even on a Sunday. Of course, the general meeting could not decide anything in regard to the matter they could only recommend to the committee. If the committee favourably considered the recommendation, it would then be their duty to call a special general me°ting of the members to come to a final decision on the matter. If it were found that such a change did the Institute any harm &nd tended to alienate any of the old-fashioned members, it would be a very easy matter to revert to the old order of things. "ll» should be very sorry to do anything injurious to the interests ot the Institution. The repol t of the committee was unanimously adopted. THANKS. Mr U. B. White (mayor) moved that the best thanks of the meeting bo accorded the president. vice-presidents, and officers of the Institution for their services during the year. Mr D. Maurice Jones Stcundcd the motion, which was carried unanimously. A vote of thanks to the donors of books and papers during the year was moved by Sir 11 LI. Williams, seconded by Mr R J. Jones, aud carried uric con. oil the motion of Mr Walter Spurrell, seconded by Mr II. F. Pritchard, a vote of thanks was awarded to the treasurer (Mr Gower Griffiths). RE APPOINTMENT OF SECRETARIES. Mr James TOlin proposed the re-election of Mr II. Anthony Thomas and Mr Thomas Thornls P.S secretaries. He believed that this was the eleventh year of the secretaryship of the first-named and no one could have possibly discharged the duties more efficiently than he had done. lIe could also speak of the second-named in equally high terms. Mr Henry Howell seconded the motion, which was unanimously carried. THE MODE OF ELECTION. Mr Rowland Browne complained that the mem- bers were not afforded a chance of voting for those whom they liked, as the ballot papers now only contained a selection of the names of those eligible. The Chairman pointed out the rules which had been adopted a few years ago which made it compulsory for a member to be duly proposed and seconded before becoming a candidate for the committee. SUNDAY OPENING. Mr Ileni y llowell moved that it be a recommend- ation to the committee to take the question of opening the Heading room on Sunday into their favourable consideration. Mr Harry Coysh seconded the motion. The Chairman pointed out that the general meeting could not instruct the committee to do anything they only "ireec)mLuend," and if the committee did not accept the recommendation, the only resource of the members was to elect another committee next year. Mr T. E. Brigstoeke said that before making ar.y change it would be well to see whether the general body of the members were in favour of it. The change would be a slight addition to the work of the caretaker, and would to some extent interfere with her Sunday rest. Mr II B White said he thought it most desirable to open the Institute on Sunday, if it were done atter service (applause). The change had been tried in St. Peter's Club, and had been most successful. He did not thinK. there was any harm in reading paper on a Sunday if they didn't do it there, they would do it at home (applause). Mr Walter Spurrell suggested that the motion be that the committee take it into their 1, favourable consideration." Mr II A Lewis said he would prefer that it be That the committee be instructed to make arrangements for the opening of the Reading-room on Sunday." The Chairrran said that they had no power to instruct." At the same time he wished to say distinctly that he was in favour of the opening of the Reading-room on Sunday. He thought that the time had come when they should move in the matter (applause). Mr Henry Howell then accepted the amendment of" favourable consideration for consideration," and the motion was put to the meeting. Mr Gwilym Samuel was the only dissentient, and the motion was, therefore, declared carried. ADMISSION OF LADIES. Mr Rowland Browne raoved that the committee take into their iavouraole consideration the admission of ladies to the Reading-room before 6 p.m." He noticed that until that hour the room was not crowded; and there would be no incon- venience experienced by the presonce of ladies. After that hour, however, the room was more crowded with studious gentlemen and the ladies might disturb their studies. Rev A F Mills said he had much pleasure in seconding but he was nut so bure as to the restriction as to the hours. I Mr H. F. Pritchard said that the limit fixed would entirely debar those engaged in business. Mr Rowland Browna I did it entirely out of consideration for the inferior sex. I was afiaid it would interefere with their studies (laughter). Mr H. F. Pritchard I think the weaker sex are able to take care of themselves. I move an amend me-it that it be a jecommendation to the committee to consider the admission of ladies to the Reading-Room during the whole time it is open. Mr B. A. Lewis seconded the amendment. Principal Evans asked if there was anything at present to prevent ladies being admitted to the Reading Room. 1 he Chairman pointed out that a lady had some time ago wished to consult the Encyclopedia Britannica in the Reference Library which was within the Reading-Room; and she had to get the special permission of the committee to do so. Principal Evans said he did not think that permission was required. Mr H LI Williams asked if there was anything to prevent a lady being a first-class member ? The Chairman pointed out that there was a special class for "ladies"; and, consequently, they were excluded by implication from the other classes. The amendment of Mr II. F. Pritchard was carried by a majority. SCIENCE WANTED. Mr B, A. Lewis called attention to the fact that the name of the institute was the 11 Literary and Scientific." lie moved that the meeting recommend to the committe", that some scientific or engineering paper be taken. This was seconded by Mr R J Jones, and carricd nem con. ELECTION OF COMMITTEE. The following was the result of tho ballot for the committee J'resident—Sir A K C Stepney, But., 42. Henry Howell, 35 and Mr James John, 2.5. Committtc — Messrs II B White, 40 T E Brig-tocke, 37 R J Jones, 37 George Morgan, 37 W Spurrell, :;7 David Griffiths, 30°; D Maurice Jun' s. 34 Rev A F Mills, 34 A LI Davies, 33 II F Pritchard, 32 K 0 Jones, 31 D Lewin, 31 H Li Williams, 31 Gwilym Samuel, 30 B A Lewis, 2V E Colby Evans, 27 Thomas Jones, 27 E R Evans. 25 B Spivey, 24 Charles Whiteoak, 21.

The Pirates of Pcnzance" at the Assembly Ptooins. On Thursday evening, ] 2th inst., before a distinguished and crowded audience, the -Narberth Operatic Company performed, by kind permission of Mr D'Oyly Carte, Messrs Gilbert and Sullivan's delightful comic opera, The Pirates of Penzance. at the Assembly rooms, Carmarthen, and the manner in which the various performers acquitted themselves unquestionably deserved the hearty and warm reception which they received. Mr J. It Phillips, as the Pirate King," per- formed his part exceedingly well, and his fine bass voice was heard to advantage in the musical renderings which his character involved. Mr J. L. H. Williams, as Frederick (the Pirate apprentice), had a heavy role, requiring no small amount of vocal talent, but he succeeded in gaining the warm approval of the audience by his splendid renderings, having to respond to encores on different occasions. Miss Maggie Lewis, as "Ruth," proved herself to be possessed of histrionic talent of no mean order as well as a pleasant voice her acting and singing being most deservedly applauded and encored. Mr J. H. Davies, as Major General Stanley," convulsed the audience by the manner in which he performed his part, and he received undeniable encores in the trio, The Ingenious Paradox," itc. But to Miss Cissy Williams, a« Mabel," one of General Stanley's daughters, must be accredited exceptional praise for the way in which she acquitted herself both in her songs and acting. Her renderings met with tumultous applause, and the audience would not be appeased until she responded. Miss L. Owen, Mrs Owen, and Miss L. Wilkins, as "Edith," Kate," and "Isabel" respectively (the other daughters of General Htanley") performed their parts with credit. Mr R. J. Mogford as "Sergeant of Police," created roars of laughter by the instructions which he delivered to his force of constable" and his contribution, A Policeman's life is not a happy one," secured for him a well-deserved encore. Added to the above the charming manner in which the several choruses were rendered the grand scenic effects (specially painted by our talented townsman, Mr E. Collier, M.S.A.) the picturesque dresses of the performers; and the splendid music supplied by Mr T. S. Puddicombe, Carmar- then's well-known pianist, and Mr J. Bye, organist, our readers can at once appreciate the character of the performance given. But to the conductor must be accredited the majar share of the success of the undertaking and Mr J. B. Williams must be highly congratulated for the manner in which lie has succeeded in training the large company to such a state of perfection in an opera like the Pirates of Penzance." The company numbered about 50, and have given performances at Narberth and Tenby, where they were accorded equally flattering receptions to that given them at Carmarthen.

Can you Hear? Persons troubled with Deafness or Head Noises should at onC6 cllmmnnicatA with THOMAS KEMPE, Cathedral House, St Andrew's Hill Loudon, E.C. who will be glad to end essay, describin new home treatment, post free.

A B E 11 GW1L1. INDUCTION MEKIING AT PENIEL.—Oa Monday evening and Tuesday the recognition services of tho Rev 11 T Jacobs, late of At-erdare. took place Preaching acniccs were held as follows:-)Iondiky evening, at Bwlchycorn, Revs S Thomas, Blaenycoed. and E Edmunds; and at Peniel by the Rs J Towyn Jonrs, Cwmatnman, and L James, Brynbank. Narbrrth On Tuesday, at Peniel, preaching at 10 a m., by tho Revs W. Davies, Llandilo and B Davics, Trelecii. Prayer was offered on the union by the Rev D Cadvau Jones, Carmarthen This meeting was presided over by Rev Professor D E Jones, M A. At 2 p m. the preachers were the Revs J Djivies, Wern, Ystalyfero, and D SJyn Evans, Aberdare, and at 6 p.m. the preachers w ere the Revs D R Davies, Rhydyceisiaid, arul W C Jenkins, Kid welly. There were also present in the meetings Revs D S Davies, D J Thorn,ls. ,J Harry, E Davies (M.C.), G Phillips, Carmarthen P I.)a\ies, Pantteg E B Lloyd, Bwlchnewydd J T Evam., Conwil E Davies (M.C.). Llanpumpsaip.t; S Evans (M.C.), Cwmdwyiran W Emrys Lloyd, Penvgraig D Curwen Davies, Siloaui Lewis (B), Ffynonhenry T Jones, B A, BD. Pencader J R SalmoD, Llanybri D Lewis, Gibeon L Price, Ffynonb«dr aDd H S Williams, Loughor; studeuts of the Presbyterian College and Oid College School, together with a large number of prominent lay- men from Aberdare, Ystalyfera, and Rhondda Valley.

DIR FFIS. JONES.—May loth, at th; GorEC, College-rose1* Carmarthen, the wife ot Mr David Jones, builder and contractor, of a son. MORRIS.-At New Iun, Nantgarodig, the vife of Mr J ared Morris, of a daughter. MARRIAGE. GRIFFITHS— FOOTMAN.— May 14th, at Llanllwch Church, near Carmarthen, by the Rev Jonathan Marsden, B.D., vicar, Mr Waker Griffiths, youngest son of Mr Griffiths. Llwynpiod, Aber- gwili, to Miss Marian Footman, youngest daughter of Mr Robert Footman, Hifodwen, C.rm ..to. DEATH5 EVANS.—May S.h, at Pantawel, Llanarthney, Mr Thomas Eva's, aged G3 years. HUGHES.—May 16ih. ai V ictoria House, Langharne, Mr Charles Hughe.5, aged 77 yeari. JONES.—At Gatefacn, Nantgaudig, M >ry, wite of Mr William Jones, aged GS i e-irs. JAMES.—May loth, Et Angel, Cothi Bridge, Frances Anne James, ajei 13 months. I REKS —May lSih, at 14, John-street. Carmarthen, Jenneth. wiie of Mr ihv.niHS lCn.) {)f the Butchers' A-ms), aged (-0 years. THOMAS.-May 17th, at High-street, Ncwcastlo Emlyu, Mr David Thomas (fatber of Mr u* Thomas, Gloucester Buildings, Swaucea), iu hi* Thomas, (iiuucesior Buildings, Swaucea), iu hi* 1 SOth year.