The Weekly News and Visitors' Chronicle for Colwyn Bay Colwyn Llandrillo Conway Deganwy and Neighbourhood

A SERIOUS CHARGE AGAINST A COLWYN BAY TEAM OWNER. At the Colwyn Bay Police Court on Saturday, February 3rd, John Evans, described as a team- owner, Clinton House, Colwyn Bay, was charged with stealing one hundredweight of coal, the property of the Colwyn Bay Gas Company. Mr James Porter (William Jones and Porter, Conway) appeared for the prosecution, and Mr W. P. Roberts (David Jones and Roberts, Llanrwst) defended. The magistrates present were Rev. W. Venables Williams (Chairman) and Messrs A. O. Walker, J. Lewis, W. Bostock, T. G. Osborn, and Duncan Miller, but, owing to his connexion with the Gas Company, the Chairman did not sit in this case, Mr A. O. Walker presiding in his stead. As the most intense interest was locally taken in the case, the Court was crowded. Mr Porter, in opening, said that the facts were very simple. On the 28th, of December last, Starkie (a carter employed by the Gas Company) was carting coal from a truck at the Railway Station. While doing so, a quantity of coal fell from the truck to the ground. In the afternoon of that day, Starkie saw the defendant take up the coal, and put it in a sack, and take it away. Starkie reported the matter to Mr Jackson, and Mr Jackson would tell them that, after he had heard what had taken place, he went to the defen- dant, and told him that he had a serious charge to make against him, namely, of taking coals belonging to the Gas Company. The defendant, who admitted having taken coal, said that he was very sorry, and offered to pay Jackson for the coal. He (Mr Porter), would not dwell any longer on the case, but would at once call his witnesses Fred Starkie, Meirion Cottage, carter, in the employ of Robert Jackson, Colwyn Bay, said that, on December 28th he was carting coal, to the Gas works, for the Colwyn Bay and district Gas Lighting Company, from the Railway Station at Colwyn Bay. Some of the coal fell on to the ground, whilst the witness was loading it, into the cart, from a railway truck. The quantity would be about one hundredweight, and it would be worth about one and sixpence. His custom was to put back any coal so dropped, into the truck, at night. Between three and four in the afternoon he saw the defendant putting the coal in a bag, and afterwards the defendant's cart came, and his carter put it in the cart. Mr William P. Roberts, asked the witness how long he stood watching the defendant putting coal in the bag. The witness For two or three minutes. The bag went in the defendant's cart. There was no one there except the defendant and his carter. He was quite certain that it was defendant's carter that was present with the cart. The defen- dant, John Evans, was there carrying slack. Robert Jackson, 13, Station Road, Colwyn Bay, coal merchant and carrier,—said that, at the beginning of January, in consequence of something he had heard, he saw the defendant and said to him that he had a very serious charge to bring against him. The defendant asked what it was. The witness said that the defendant had been taking coals belonging to the Gas Company. The defendant said rhat he had, and asked the witness to take payment for the coals. The witness replied that he could not take payment for what did not belong to him if it had been his own coal, he could have done what he liked about it and therefore he must report it to the Gas Company. He (the witness) carried coal regularly for the Gas Company, whoogot annually about one thousand tons. By Mr Roberts It was about 7.30 a.m., when the first load was taken from the truck. Coal always fell from the trucks when they were first opened, but the quantity varied. It was his carter's custom to collect such coals in the evening, and to put it back in the wagon. He only knew of what had happened on this date, from what he had heard from his carter. The wagon was, within three yards, in the same place, in the evening, as it was in the morning. Starkie, recalled, said, in reply to the Chairman, that it was he who saw the defendant taking the coal. Did you say anything to him. The Witness No. Why not ?-I was too far from him. Did you not say anything to him afterwards ?— No, Sir. The defendant, on being then formally charged, pleaded not guilty, and elected to be tried by the magistrates, in preference to having the case sent to the Quarter Sessions. Mr Roberts asked the Bench whether they con- sidered that there was a sufficient case to go into. The Chairman Oh, certainly. Mr Roberts Very good then my first duty, gentlemen, when we take into consideration the social position of the defendant, and the serious- ness of the charge imputed to him, is to explain to you the facts as they are given to me by the defendant himself, and by witnesses whom I shall call for the defence. In my statement to you, I shall try, while being as minute as I possibly can, to be as brief as I can, and refrain from saying anythingtvhich I am not able to prove in evidence. The facts, as stated to me, are to this effect. On the afternoon of the day in question, between two o'clock and three o'clock in the afternoon, John Evans, the defendant, was on the point of leaving the station-yard, with a load of slates or stone, and there, just at that time, he met a man named Robert Jones, who, two days before, had started business as a coal-merchant in Colwyn Bay. They knew one another very well, and the new coal-merchant, being anxious to push his trade, asked Evans whether he would take a load of coal from him, and Evans, being in want of coal, said I will take a load, if you will let me have it to-day." Robert Jones could not deliver that day, because of the days in December being very short, and, this being between two o'clock and three o'clock in the afternoon. Robert Jones was just on the point of going into the yard to take a wagonful of coal in bags, to distribute about the town, and it would take him more time to distribute these bags than would enable him to get back in time to put the coal in bags and to get to Evans' house. He therefore said I can't let you have a load to-night, but there is a pile in the siding go there and take them, and I shall send you a load as soon as I find time to take them up." About 3.30, the defendant went to the yard, and, having provided himself with a bag, he went to the siding, and, when there, he met a man named William Thomas (well-known in the station-yard), and John Evans asked him Do you know where the pile of coal is, belonging to Robert Jones ?" Thomas looked round, and could see but one pile, and said It must be this." and, there and then (William Thomas holding the bag, not the defend- ant's carter as stated) Evans shovelled the coal into the bag himself. After that, they lifted the bag on to the buffers of the wagon, and left it there, till the carter came, sometime afterwards, to take it away. They then went away, and nothing more was heard ot the matter for a week, when Jackson comes to Evans, and tells him that he has a serious charge against him. Evans treated the thing more as a joke than anything else, and said "Well, if it was your coal, I may as well pay something for it, bun I was told to take it." Evans afterwards went to Robert Jones, and said that he had been accused of taking coal belonging to someone else. Jones said, Well, I had a pile of coal there, and in the evening there was no coal there." Nearly a month afterwards, he was served with a summons. He could not understand it, and went to one of the Gas Company's Directors, and explained the matter, but it was then too late; the summons had been taken out. This case is known in the town as the case between Jackson and Evans The Chairman (impatiently) We can't go into this sort of thing confine yourself to the facts of the case. Mr Roberts As the defendant has no chance of saying anything himself, I will ask you to let me make a few observations on the case. This case is known as the case between Jackson and Evans- Mr Porter I must protest against this. The Chairman (to Mr Roberts) Certainly; please confine yourself to the facts. Mr Robeits: I should like to point out the social position of Evans, and how unlikely it is, to my mind, that he should risk his reputation and everything for the sake of a paltry eighteen- pennyworth of coal. Mr Evans is one of the Trustees of the Welsh Wesleyan Chapel in Colwyn Bay, which is a position of confidence. He is also the owner of a freehold house, representing rent and taxes to the amount of £ 10 a year. He is also the owner of five or six cart-horses, and it seems to me incredible that a man in his position should so debase himself as to take this hundred- weight of coal, in broad daylight. Mr Roberts then called Robert Jones, Meirion Villa, coal merchant, Colwyn Bay, who said that he remembered December 28th last. He received a wagon of coal that morning, with which he received a ticket (produced). He asked the defendant whether he might take him a load of coal. Evans wanted it that afternoon, but the witness said that he could not take it up that afternoon. Evans then asked whether the witness could take up a hundredweight or two. The witness said that he could not, and the defendant said that he must get it somewhere else. The witness, not liking to lose a new customer, told the defendant to go to the siding, and to take from there a bag of coal that was on the ground, and that belonged to the witness. He sent the defendant a bill, and it was paid. The witness heard nothing further of the matter till the defen- dant came and told him that he had been sum- moned. The bill was sent in before the summons was taken out, and was settled on January 16th, 1894. The wagons were frequently moved about on the siding, even while they were being unloaded. He could swear that about a hundredweight of coal had fallen from his wagon that morning. By Mr Porter He did not know where the Gas Company's truck was at the time. His coal was neat," not cobbles." The defendant was down there every day, and knew the difference between the witness's wagons and others. The witness did not know where the defendant took the coal from he might have taken it from another place. The defendant had seen the witness after Jackson had seen the defendant, and told him what Jackson had said. How is it that you came to put one hundred- weight in your bill ?-I have so much trust in Colwyn Bay people. [Laughter]. Is that the way you do business ?—Yes, I go all through the world in that way. [Laughter]. By the Clerk He was not certain whether he had heard of the case before he sent in his bill. By Mr Porter His partner kept the books. Where is the book showing this account ? The Witness: Isn't that bill right ? [Laughter]. In re-examination, the witness said that he had delivered the bill, and he had received payment for the coal before he had heard of the summons. By Mr Porter Jackson's carter lodges with me. And you heard nothing of this case ?—Oh yes, I hear a lot like that, but I let them go in at one ear and out at the other. [Laughter]. William Thomas, Abergele Road, Colwyn Bay, carter, remembered December 28th last, and was at the Station Yard in the afternoon. The defen- dant was there, and Robert Jones. The Gas Company's carter was there too. The defendant asked him which was the coal belonging to Robert Jones. The witness told him that it was in the small siding, and added, "There is only this truck in the place, and it must be this." He helped the defendant to fill a sack with the coals, and then they put it on the buffer of the wagon, and left it there. By Mr Porter He knew the different trucks. The Company's trucks were in the same siding as Robert Jones's but the wagon next the heap was full of slack. Without hearing any more evidence, the Bench dismissed the case, to the evident satisfaction of a great portion of those in Court.

CONWAY. Parish Church (Sunday Services): 8.0 a m. Celebration of the Holy Communion. 9.45 a.m. Welsh service. 11.0 a.m. English service. 6.0 p.m Welsh service. St. Aqnes 6.0 p.m. English service. Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, -(English Services).— Next Sunday: Morning 11.0, evening 6.0. A GOOD PLACE FOR BOOTS.—For the best and cheapest of all classes of Boots and Shoes go to Joseph Jones, Berry Street, Conway. Best Shop for repairing. adv. 109— DENTAL NOTICE.—Mr. Richard Pedler, Dental Surgeon, of Waterloo House, Llandudno, attends every Friday afternoon at Mrs Marks's, Rhos Mill House, Conway, where he may be consulted on all cases of Surgical and Mechanical Dentistry. Hours of attendance, 2 till 5. 1-7 A NEW BARONET.-The Queen has approved of a baronetcy being conferred upon Mr. E. Burne- Jones, R. W. S., R.C.A. A similar honour was offered to Mr. Watts, R.A., R.C.A. but declined. BISHOP PEARSON'S ACCEPTANCE OF A NORTH- COUNTRY VICARIATE. Concerning the Right Rev. J. B. Pearson, D.D., who has been for some time past been residing in the neighbourhood, the following appeared in Church Bells of February 2nd :—" We are informed that Bishop Pearson, late of Newcastle, New South Wales, has accepted the Vicarage of Leek, near Kirkby Lonsdale, vacant by the death of the Rev G. T. Tatham. The many friends of the Bishop, at home and in Australia, will rejoice, as we do, to hear of this token of the recovery of his health." THE CAPTURE OF A BADGER.—On Saturday afternoon, February 3rd, some young men from Talybont, came across the den of a badger, in the woods above Dolgarrog, and, after having exercised some skill, they managed to capture the badger alive without causing any harm to it. As the animal is so uncommon, a great many people interested themselves, on Saturday evening, in viewing it, which was, at the Bull Inn, Llanbedr-y-cenin, in the possession of the young men who caught it. NEXT WEDNESDAY'S LECTURE BY COUNCILLOR WALLACE, M.A.—At eight eight o'clock next Wednesday evening, February 14th, the Mayor of Conway will take the chair at the Boys' School- room, Conway, on the occasion of Councillor C. J. Wallace, M.A., lecturing on "The Sun", the lecture being illustrated by lime-light mani- pulated by Mr. J. R. Furness (Plas Mawr). Judging from the Syllabus the lecture will be neither too elementary nor too technical, and will be very interesting. Councillor Wallace seems to avoid equally the opposite errors of staleness and of learned dryness, recognising that the truth of the proverb In media via tuia. POSTAL IMPROVEMENTS AT CONWAY.—There has been made an addition of two men to the town letter-carriers, making the total number five. The town has been arranged into four divisions, and under ordinary circumstances, the men finish their delivery soon after 8 a.m. This is a great improvement, especially to the residents in the outskirts. The fifth man is employed in the delivery of parcels, which are not now-as hitherto —delivered with the letters. A DINNER AT CROESYNYD.—On Friday, January 26th, Mr George Barker, of Aigburth and Llan- dudno, entertained to dinner, at the Cross Keys Inn, Croesynyd, the landlords and tenants over whose farms he shoots. An excellent menu was served, consisting of joints, roast beef, roast turkey, boiled and roast mutton, goose, entremets, plum pudding, apple tarts, cheese-cakes, jellies, blancmanges.—After dinner, Mr Barker, in a suitable speech, gave the toast of "The Queen," which was drunk with musical honours.-Mr Barker, in responding to the toast of the evening, expressed himself, in a felicitous speech, highly gratified by the enthusiastic manner in which the toast of his health had been received, and expressed a hope that his guests and himself might be spared to meet again, and that the thorough good feeling which exists between them might continue.—Much praise is due to Mrs and Miss Jones for their very efficient catering on the occasion. The company separated after singing the English National Anthem. CONWAY LITERARY AND DEBATING SOCIETY. At the Conway Literary and Debating Society's weekly meeting, held within the Guildhall, on Tuesday evening, February 6th, the President (Mr A. G. Kaye) in the chair, after the previous meeting's minutes had been read and confirmed, the President called upon the Senior Hon. Secretary (Mr John Williams) to deliver a lecture on How popular periodicals are produced." This lecture was illustrated by slides lent by Tit-Bits, and shown by Mr Furness. After the Secretary had concluded, Vice- President Robinson moved a vote of thanks to the Messrs Furness and Williams fortheentertainment, and this duly seconded by Vice-President Smith, was carried unanimously. It was announced that on Tuesday evening, February 13th, Councillor J. P. Griffiths would open, affirmatively, the debate on the question "Is unrestricted competition among British traders injurious to the community?" Mr E. A. Krause was announced to lead on the negative side. THE CONWAY HORSE FAIR ARRANGEMENTS. At a meeting held in the Guild Hall, Conway, on Friday afternoon, February 2nd, Mr D. R. Da vies, of Plas Isa', Glanconway, in the chair, there were present the following subscribers:- Messrs J. T. Davies, Tanyrallt J. C. Smallwood, Blue Bell Hotel, Conway Elias Davies, Farm- vard Mr Griffith Roberts, Talycafn W. F. Jones, Bodidda G. O. Jones, Merchlvn R. Ellis, Bryn-pin; Llewelyn Jones, chemist, Conway; John Jones, Pant Eddan, Abergele Owen Prichard, Glatiywern Robert Williams, Medd- iant; William Foulkes, Tanyberllan; O. T. Owen, Harp Hotel, Conway; Edward Jackson, Eglwysbach; Holtgate, Crow's Nest and Owen Williams, The Morfa. The two Secretaries (Councillor Tosdevine and Mr A. W. Jones) were also present. After the reading of a letter in which the Vale of Conway Agricultural Society (Llanrwst) declined to co-operate in giving prizes to Agricul- tural and Roadster Stallions, Mr Ellis (Bryn-pin) moved, and Mr W. F. Jones seconded, that a prize of £40 be given to the best Agricultural Stallion to walk the district, and this motion was ultimately carried by nine votes to six votes given for an amendment (moved by Mr J. T. Davies, and seconded by Mr Owen Prichard) that the amount of the prize be £20. Mr G. O. Jones moved, and Mr Griffith Roberts seconded, that a Zio prize be given to the best Roadster Stallion to walk the district.—As an amendment, Mr Llewelyn Jones moved, and Mr Elias Davies seconded, that the prize be £ 15 and Mr O. T. Owen proposed, and Mr J. T. Davies seconded, another amendment, that no prize be given to a Roadster Stallion.—Two votes were cast for Mr O. T Owen's amendment four voted for the amendment first proposed, and ten voted for the original motion, which was therefore carried. Two District Secretaries were then appointed for each of the following Districts :-Conway, Gyffin, Ty'nygroes, Glanconway, Eglwysbach, Creuddyn, Colwyn Bay, Abergele, Bettws-yn- Rhos, and Penmaenmawr. At a numerously-attended meeting, at the Guild Hall, on February 7th, Mr D. R. Davies presiding, Mr G. O. Jones proposed, and Mr J. H. Elias seconded, the confirmation of the minutes, and this was agreed to. On the motion of Mr G. O. Jones, seconded by Mr T. O. Owen (Llandudno), it was decided that subscription cards be sent to be exhibited in the principal Hotels. Two District Secretaries were appointed for the Llanbedr and Dolgarrog District. Upon the prize-list being considered in detail, last year's conditions were adopted (subject to some slight amendments of the routes the Stallions were to travel). It was decided to give three prizes (instead of two) for the best Agricultural Team. The Chairman announced, amid applause, that he would give two guineas as a prize for the best Brood Mare. ft was decided that Ponies must be not exceeding 13t hands (instead of 13) to be eligible for Class 9. The remainder of the prize-list was adopted. The arrangement for a field for the Show was left to the Chairman and Secretaries. It was arranged to hold the next meeting at the Guild Hall, Conway, at five o'clock on Friday afternoon, February 23rd. CONWAY SCHOOL BOARD. At the Conway School Board's January monthly meeting, on January 31st, at the Guild Hall, Conway, the Vice-Chairman (Councillor Dr R. Arthur-Prichard, J.P., C.C., Mayor of Conway) presiding, the Attendance-Officer (Mr Robert Edwards) reported that the attendance had improved after the last summonses had been issued. The Board ordered the issue of summonses against a number of the worst cases now reported. The Clerk (Mr James Porter) said that the Board's accounts had been audited, and he wished to receive the Board's instructions con- cerning the same. The accounts would have to be printed and sent to the Education Department. The Board decided that the accounts should be published in a newspaper. THE DEBATING SOCIETY'S GRAND CONCERT. On Wednesday evening, January 31st, the concert got up, in aid of the Parish Nurse Fund, by the Literary and Debating Society, under the patronage of the Right Hon. Lady Augusta Mostyn and the Ladies of Parish Nurse Com- mittee, was held in the Boys' Schoolroom. The Mayor of Conway (Councillor Dr R. Arthur- Prichard, J.P., C.C.) occupied the chair. In his opening speech, the Mayor said that he was glad to take the chair that evening, as the proceeds were in aid of such a deserving object as the Parish Nurse Fund. He thought that great praise was due to the members of the Conway Literary and Debating Society for having taken the initiative in forming a Fund for the support of a Nurse in Conway. He explained that no grant would be made to the Conway District Nursing Association from the National Association after April next, and the Society had thoughtfully moved in the matter. He was sure that every- body were of the same opinion as himself when he said that the Nurse was indispensable. The fact of the Society having got up this concert proved that the Nurse Fund was not as some people believed-a Church of England Fund. He was glad that so many had turned up at the concert, and thus showing their sympathy with the movement. The following programme was then gone through Pianoforte solo, "Andante in G minor," Miss Krause; glee, "Awn i ben y Wyddfa fawr," Kymric Singers song, Should he upbraid (by request), Miss Dew; song, "The Village Blacksmith," Mr J. Llewelyn Jones comic song, My dear old Dutch," Mr Ted Griffiths chorus, "Glory" (from Faust), K) mric Singers; scene (from King Henry IV.), The Boar's Head Tavern, Eastcheap, between Henry, Prince of Wales, and Sir John Falstaft, after the robbery on Gad's Hit!, Henry, Prince of Wales, Mr Smith, Sir John Falstaff, Mr Furness piano- forte solo (encored), "March in G," Miss Jennie Hughes; recitation, The Showman," Mr J. Clinton Jones, R.C.A. song, Llancesau'r Eryri," Miss Dew recitation, Lochiel's Warn- ing (by request), Mr J. R. Furness; story, "Johnnie Forest," Mr J. Clinton Jones, R.C.A.; song, "The Carnival" (encored); Miss Dew; glee, "Seren y Brython," Kymric Singers; "God Save the Queen." Miss Dew sang her songs very well, and as an encore gave Bwthyn yr Amddifad." Mr Clinton Jones, in his recitation, took the house by storm. The Kymric Singers, as usual, sang their pieces very well. Miss Amanda Krause, T.C.L., acted as accompanist. The President of the Society (Mr A. G. Kaye) moved a vote of thanks to the Mayor for presiding, and to the artistes and accompanist. This was seconded by Vice-President Robinson, and was carried unanimously. The Mayor having responded, Mr J. R. Furness moved a vote of thanks to the School Managers for the use of the room, and this, seconded by the Senior Hon. Secretary (Mr John Williams), was carried. It may be added that-the receipts totalling £ 13 7s 9d, and the expenses being slightly over 63-there remained a balance of more than £ 10 for the Conway Parish Nurse Fund. CONWAY AND LLANDUDNO PETTY SESSIONS. CONWAY, MONDAY, FEBRUARY 5th.-Before Henry Kneeshaw, Esq, (chairman); County- Councilllor C. H. Darbishire; County-Alderman Elias Jones; and Morris Jones, Esq. PROFANE LANGUAGE IN CONWAY. Susannah Berry was charged with using profane language in the public streets of Conway:—The Bench, after hearing the evidence, said that they would dismiss the case on the defendant paying the costs (5s). A DANGEROUS PRACTICE. Thomas Tones, Bronheulog, Llangwstenin, was fined is and costs for leaving large stones on the road on Tywyn Hill, to the danger of the public, and the Chairman (on behalf of the Bench) pub- licly thanked -P.C. Elias Evans (33) for bringing the case forward. LICENSING. Mr Moberley, licensee of the Harrington, Llan- dudno, was granted an occasional license for the Masonic Hall, Llandudno, on February 15th, from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m., on the occasion of a Ball. THE DRAMATIC ENTERTAINMENT. A dramatic entertainment, in aid of the funds of the Conway National Schools, was held on Friday evening, February 2nd. The entertain- ment took the form of a tableaux-vivants anct,.a farcial comedy ("The Coming Woman "). The tableaux were done by a party of ladies :an'd gentlemen from Penmaenmawr. Between each tableau, songs were rendered by Miss Griffith, Bryn Estyn, and Miss Lee, Bryn Mair. Nigger duets and stump speeches were given by some of the Penmaenmawr contingent. The second part consisted of the farce entitled The Coming Woman." The play is something of a burlesque on Woman's Rights." Where all had parts about the same, it is rather difficult to pick out the best, but Miss Matthews (as "The Judge") excelled. Miss Farrington and Miss Edith Lee (as Victorine and "Wolverine Griffin," respectively) took their parts well. As Mrs Badger," the Deputy-Mayoress (Mrs Humphrey Lewis) was a great .success, and secured much appreciation from the critical audience. Mr Furness (as Mr Wigfall, the husband of "The Judge ") acted to perfection, and so did Mr Farrington (as "Tom Carberry.") A very successful evening's entertainment closed with the singing of "God Save the Queen," after the Vicar of Conway had proposed, and the Mayor of Conway (Councillor Dr R. Arthur- Prichard, J.P., C.C.) seconded a vote of thanks to the artistes. Mr Vincent Walker is acknow- ledged to have excelled himself in the capacity of stage-manager. Appended is the programme Tableau, The Lady with the Lamp (Miss Nightingale at Scutari), from a painting by Henrietta Rees (Mrs Norman), Mrs Chantrey, Mr Chantrey, and Mr Roberts; tableau, "The Puritan Maiden," two scenes, (I) Why don't you speak for yourself, John ? (2) John Alden and Priscilla, Miss Crosby and Mr G Johhson; tableau, "Italian Water Carriers," from a painting by Claude Strachan, Mrs Chantrey, Miss Crosby, Miss Williams, Miss Montgomery, and Master Wallace Chantrey tableau, 11 The Little Mogul," from a painting by Mrs Murray Cookesley, Mrs Chantrey, Miss Pritchard, Miss Williams, and Master Wallace Chantrey tableau, Triumphs of Modern Advertisements," Mr Chantrey, Mr Johnson, Miss Crosby, and Miss Williams; tableau, "Ruth and Naomi," Miss Pritchard, Mrs Chantrey, and Miss Crosby tableau, "The Lotus Eaters," Miss Pritchard, Miss Crosby, Miss Williams, Mrs Chantrey, Mrs Foyn, and Miss Montgomery. An amusing farce, entitled The Coming Woman;" characters Mrs Badger, Mrs Humphrey Lewis The Judge, Miss Mathews Wolverine Griffin, Miss Edith Lees Victorine, Miss Farrington Mr Wigfall, Mr Furness Tom Carberry, Mr T. B. Farrington. The supposed period of this play is the year 2000 the scene is laid in the United States: Act I., a Waiting Room at a Railway Station Act II., the Drawing Room in Mr Wigfall's house. CONWAY TOWN COUNCIL. At the Conway Town Council's February monthly meeting called for 2.30 p.m., on Wednes- day, February 7th, at the Guild Hall, Conway, the Mayor (Councillor Dr R. Arthur-Prichard, J.P., C.C.,) presided. The Council is constituted as follows, those present being indicated by an asterisk, the time of arrival being indicated within brackets following each asterisked name THE MAYOK: *[Councillor Dr R. Arthur-Prichard, J.P., C.C.] (2.29) ALDERMEN (4): *Griffith Jones. (2 29) *Hugh Hughes. (2.32) *Hugh Jones (2.32). *William Hughes. (2 32) COUNCILLORS (12): J. P. Griffiths *John Williams. (2.32). *John Roberts. (2.32). *Edward Roberts. (2 29). Humphrey Lewis, Charles Drover. *M. J. Morgan. (5.8). *John Hughes. (2 32). *P,. A. Prichard (2 29). *J. W. Tosdevine. (2.38). *C. J. Wallace. (3 36). *Hugh Jones (2 41). OFFICIALS: Town Clerk: *Mr T. E. Parry (2.29). Borough Purveyor, <fr. #Mr T. B. Farrington, C E. (2.29). Sanitary Inspector: *Mr. D. M. Roberts. (2.29). A STORM IN A TEA CUP. While the members were assembling, the Mayor proposed that the tenders received for the erection of a shed, in the Corporation yard, for the shelter of the carts, be opened. This was agreed to, and several tenders were read. It appeared that each of them exceeded the amount of the Sanitary Inspector's estimate, whereupon Councillor Edward Roberts expressed the opinion that it was a shame that an official like the Sanitary Inspector could not make a proper estimate within a couple of pounds. Alderman Hugh Hughes thought that Councillor Edward Roberts ought to be called to order, and asserted that it was a purely personal matter between Councillor Roberts and the Inspector. This, Councillor Roberts warmly denied, and demanded that Alderman Hugh Hughes be called to order. The Mayor deprecated any display of feeling in the matter, which was then put to the vote, Alderman Griffith Jones proposing, and Councillor Hugh Jones seconding, that Messrs Jones and Son's tender be accepted. Councillor Edward Roberts moved that the matter be not proceeded with. This was not seconded, and the original motion was put and carried. The amount of Messrs Jones and Son's tender is £ >] 17s 2d. THE GAS COMMITTEE. The Council adopted the Gas and Harbour Committee's recommendations that the Council accept Messrs R. Dempster and Sons' tender (£220) for laying down a bed of retorts, and that a few automatic gas-meters be laid down with a view to testing the value of these machines. THE FINANCE COMMITTEE. The Rate-collector had reported that the amount outstanding was £ 1340, and the Com- mittee recommended the laying of a General Dis, rict Rate of 5s 6d in the L.-The estimate for the coming year showed an expenditure of £5337, including a L2037 defficiency in last year's rate. The chief items were :—Salaries, £ 220 sanitary, £ 300 5 highways, £ 600 water-supply, £ 650 and repayments of loans, £1000. The estimate also includes a deficiency in Gas Receipts amount- ing to no less than ^400. The estimate for last year was £ 2325.—Mr Porter reported that he had collected £ 425 os 6d, out of the £ 677 8s xod handed over to him for collection, leaving an out- standing balance of L242 8s 4d. Councillor Wallace said that he noticed, from the financial statement supplied to the members of the Council, that the repayment of loan and intere t was set down as £ 650 this year, while in the following year's estimate it was £1000, a difference of £350. That would represent loans to the amount of £ 7000, but he did not see what loans they had had. The Town Clerk explained that it was proposed to borrow -"4000, which, together with ^3000 they had had already, would make ^7000. Councillor Wallace said that there was also an item of 2150 for the water supply. The Town Clerk said that the rate last year was struck too low. Councillor Wallace said that the rate was estimated upon £ 12,300 this year, whereas last year it was £ 12,220 That was a very small increase, considering what the increase of buildings had added to the rate- able value of the town. The Town Clerk pointed out that last year there was a new assessment made, and the Railway Com- pany had a great reduction upon their property. Councillor Wallace repeated that, while the assess- able property in the Borough had increased consider- ably. the rateable value had not increased in propor- tion. There was another point, if one looked into that statement, it was a mystery. All the balance (at the end of the account) due to the Treasurer was £ 488. That seemed to be all the debt of the Borough. He could not understand it. so he begged to move that this business of striking a rate be postponed till the accounts were audited. The Town Clerk said that the explanation of the mystery was very simple. The Treasurer was so much in debt and so much in credit on each account, and, after striking a balance of both, there was due to the Treasurer X440. The other accounts were in debt. Councillor Wallace Since March, 1893, have we got into debt so much P The Town Clerk said that since March, 1892, they had got into debt, on one year's working, to that amount. It was now £ 2000 probably this year it would be £ 2,200. Councillor Wallace said that he was quite aware of all that the Town Clerk had said, but it was intended to strike a rate to cover all those things. He had said, two years ago, that they were exceeding their estimates by at least 9200 a year. He did not see why they should estimate in one year if they got enough to cover £ 200, he thought the rate of 5s 6d too high, too sudden a jump from 3s 8d. But he protested, in any case, against the Rate being struck at all till the accounts were audited. There was another account (on the Water Rate) of R680. He thought that that should be a special Rate let them leave the District Rate alone, and strike a Water Rate. He moved that the rate be delayed till after the audit. Councillor Edward Roberts asked whether the Rates had been used to make the road in the Marsh. The Town Clerk No, it has been taken out of the Borough Fund—out of the rents. Councillor Wallace It is not in this account at all? Alderman Hugh Hughes Well, no In reply to the Mayor, the Town Clerk said that what had been done was quite legal, and added that he thought that it would be quite as well if the Council formed itself into a Committee to consider the question, because it was a very serious question. The Mayor felt compelled to say that it would have been far better if, instead of dribbling and drabbling as they had done in the past, they had gone in at once tor the whole amount they required in loans, and have done with it. Alderman Hugh Hughes aerreed with Councillor Wallace, that the matter should be referred to a Committee of the whole Council, but not to prolong the matter, as their fault had been in the past to make the rates too far back in the summer. (Councillor Wallace: Hear, hear). They required the rate to be as soon as they could, in order to allow the Collector the advantage of the best time to collect it. A 5s 6d District Rate would be a shocking thing for the ratepayers. Councillor Wall ice (as Chairman of the Gas Com- mittee) said that the new exhausters would represent an annual saving of £ 150. It was agreed to refer the matter to a Committee of the whole Council. THE CORPORATION'S OFFICIALS. From the report of a special Committee, it appeared that, by seven votes to six, it had been decided to give the Sanitary Inspector and the Borough Surveyor three months' notice with a view to the rearrangement of the officers, one officer to be appointed at an annual salary of R160, increasing (by a zlO annual increment) to R,200, and to devote all his time to the office. Councillor Wallace said that the resolution (which he had moved) was rather crude and severe in form. But that was quite unintentional. However, he wished to apologise to the officials, for the manner in which they were worded. But it was not so worded with any intention to cause any stigma upon them. The fact was, that, finding the resolu- tion of the previous day utterly illegal, the second resolution was drawn up very hurriedly. Of course, they were all aware of the valuable services which the Borough Surveyor had rendered the Conway Corporation during a period of 14 years, and it would be a pity to put such a slight on him as was apparently conveyed by the terms of the resolution. But he assured Mr Farrington and Mr Roberts, that there was no intention to slight them in any way. Alderman Hugh Hughes said that he would like to ask the Borough Surveyor for an explanation. It had been told outside the Council, and it had been told to him, without, however, any authority being given, that somehow or other Mr Farrington was in receipt, directly or indirectly, of far more than 225, and he should like to ask Mr Farrington a straight question, and that was whether he was remunerated in any way, directly or indirectly, more than what the Corporation paid him. The Mayor: Mr Farrington has answered that question at our last meeting Alderman Hugh Hughes: Yes, I know but I should like to have this matter cleared up because several ratepayers are under the impression that he gets more. The Mayor thought that it would hurt Mr Farring- ton's feelings a good deal, to be asked such a question over again. Mr Farrington had already said no, and he (the Mayor) did not think that it was right to ask Mr Farrington again. Alderman Hugh Hughes (impatiently): Do you rule me out of order ? The Mayor No, not if Mr Farrington wishes to answer. Councillor John Hughes: Do I understand Councillor Wallace to say that the resolution on the agenda is illegal ? Councillor Wallace: No; but, before you could relieve the officials, you must give them three months notice. It is the only way to do to clear the ground. Mr Farrington (to the Mayor) I can only answer Alderman Hugh Hughes's question as I did before. I have had no communication with Alderman Hughes, and did not know that he was going to put this question, which has taken me completely by surprise. But, during the last two years, all the money I have received from the'Corporation, either "directly or in- directly, is < £ 50. Outjof that, I have hadjto pay my own office-rent, and I have carried out works which would otherwise have had to be paid for, ordinarily, at a very high rate. Continuing, Mr Farrington said that he had been given to understand that he would be paid for that work which was extra work by the Council, but he had never been paid yet, and, as he had said at the last Council meeting, he was entirely at the mercy of the Council in respect to any payment on that account. But he had an agreement with the Council for .£25 a year, and that was all that he had, and it was paid him in quarterly instalments of t6 5s, People might think that he was paid for the work he had done in connection with the new sewerage of the town but that was a special matter, and he ventured to point out that, if that was the case in the past, it ought to be so now. He hoped that after that explanation the matter would be clear. He had heard the same things as Alderman Hughes had referred to, himself, after he had made his statement at the last Council meeting, of which an almost verbatim appeared in The Weekly News, and he had been challenged by people that he was receiving over zC400 a year. After the handsome apology made by Councillor Wallace, he wished to say that he could quite appreciate that the Council should feel that the ground ought to be cleared in some way, and he could understand, too, that the resolution should be pas sed without the Council seeing-just at the moment- what the effect would be on the men they were dealing with, and without taking into consideration that his (Mr Farrington's) conduct of the Corporation's affairs had not been called into question. The only fault found with him was that he was doing too much work for too little money. He could quite believe that the Corporation did not wish to slight him in any way in this matter, but that their action had been prompted entirely by a desire to clear the ground. But, the conclusion that the public would arrive at, would be that something was wrong, and they would ask, "What had they done?" He was obliged to Councillor Wallace for his explanation. Of course, he still hoped that the Council would consider this matter, whether the new step they were taking would be conducive to the interests of the Borough or not. He did not wish to trespass he only wished to put his case before the Council- The Mayor (deprecatingly) I do not think that you ought to go into the matter. Mr Farrington (appealingly) I only wish- The Mayor: Oh, yes; but I think you had better not. Alderman Hugh Hughes: I beg to move, as Councillor Wallace has admitted that he did not think his resolution—it cropped up at the last Committee that notices were given intended for the Council-that he found out it was illegal- Councillor Wallace I beg to call Alderman Hughes to order. This has been altogether ruled upon by you, Mr Mayor, at the last meeting. The Mayor (to Aldorman Hugh Hughes) Will you speak to the point, please. I am sorry to say that there was a little bit of irregularity about the meeting, but we found that the engagements could not be terminated without three months' notice. It is just cutting the matter very, very thin, indeed, to think that there is any insult intended. Alderman Hughes did not mean to say that. He thanked the Mayor for his explanation, because it confirmed the point he was about to make 'I hey had considered this matter since the last meeting, and, in view of the work they (the officials) had done, his firm conviction was that they ought to re-consider the proposal, and he begged to move that the case be referred back to the Committee. They all knew the abilities of their Borough Surveyor, who had given his time to carry out vast improvements in the Borough, and to do away with those services without bringing forward a single complaint, in his belief, was an injustice t) the Survelor. And he might say the same thing of the Sanitary Inspector. The only shadow of a case brought forward was the house at Tyddyn 1sa- The Mayor: Are we really in order in going over this again ? We have done so once, and I am sure that you punish too hard the feelings of the officials. Alderman Hughes (loudly) I have moved a resolu- tion, and I am speaking to it; if you rule me out of order The Mayor I certainly do. Why don't you move a resolution ? Alderman Hughes (loudly) Well, that is what I am doing. Councillor Wallace I wish that Alderman Hughes would allow me to say a few words Alderman Hughes You may say as many as you can. I am alluding to the fact that there has not a single instance been brought forward that these officials have neglected their duties. The Mayor The main point is, is it the wish of this Committee that one man should do the work. Alderman H. Hughes Well, I move the resolution that it be referred back. Is that in order ? The Mayor Yes. Ald. Hughes (triumphantly): Well, I am speaking in order then. Councillor Wallace It is a question of AM. H. Hughes: The Mayor has confirmed my remark that no charge has been brought against any of the officials. The duties of these two officials, possibly, are quite apart from one another, and to have one man to do the work of these two, is a great mistake. Councillor Wallace: I beg to call Ald. Hughes to order. This is not on the agenda. I ask the Town Clerk s opinion. The Town Clerk: Well, the Mayor has ruled that he can refer it. It is on the minutes, and the question 1S ,confirm to reject, or to defer it. r \l?' I am speaking to the motion to refer it back to the Committee. The duties are quite apart. The abilities of our Surveyor we all know. There is the Sanitary Inspector, again. Do they think we are going to have a man to do the duties of thooo Wo gronticmeii'-to be up at six o'clock in tl morning, and to visit lodging-houses at twelve o'clo"c at night, which must be done if the work is to be doi, > properly. No reasonable man would expect it. It ia quite out of the question. I don't deny that there ought to be some more definite rule as to the duties of these two officials. I quite admit that. But, as the case has cropped up as to inspecting buildings,-one says that it is not his work, and the other says that it It n°j f blame the Council for not defining the duties. I hope that we shall come to that elusion at the Committee, and draw out the duties 01 these two gentlemen, and work it agreeably. Councillor John Hughes having seconded Alderman Hugh Hughes's motion, Councillor Wallace said that e believed firmly at the time, that his resolution was the voice of the Borough of Conway, and he believed that it was his duty to get an official, and he did not believe that they could get a better man than either ? iflr, £ wo Preseilt officials in their own positions, u e thought that it would be better to get one 0 cial who would devote the whole of his time to the u les. it was a very important thing, and he begged to adhere to his resolution. If Aid Hughes moved e rejection of one resolution, he must move the rejection of the other as well. (Aid. Hughes I do). I beg to move that the minutes be confirmed. If we upset one meeting's resolutions at the next, like this, we shall never get on. Alderman H. Hughes asked to be allowed to make an explanation. Permission being granted, he remarked a-ui 4. sa^ that one man, at Rhyl, did the double duty but he pointed out that £ 3500 had been paid in that town, in the shape of extra fees alone, to a man to carry out works there. Councillor Tosdevine seconded Councillor Wallace's amendment. Councillor Dr Morgan would like to say, respecting Councillor Wallace's motion, that he did not see that any benefit would accrue from having one officer, and he did not see how one man could do the work. The only objection to the present system, that had been brought forward, was that there was a misunderstand. ing as to the duties of the officials. That was the fault of the Council, who ought to define the work to be expected from each official. Accordingly, he must support Alderman Hughes's motion. Councillor John Williams Was Mr Farrington unable to go on with his duties when the two offices were combined in him ? The Mayor That's hardly a fair question. Mr Farrington But I should like to answer it, Mr Mayor, with your permission and the permission of the Council. I had charge for about 12 years, and it was a matter of impossibility for me-and I was perfectly candid with the Council about it at the time,—it was impossible for one man to do the work. Provided that you have two officials who are com- petent for the work, it is a very much better arrange- ment to have two. I think that this is a matter that I should be allowed to speak on, because it concerns my bread-and-cheese. I have devoted the best part of my life to the service of the Borough of Conway, I have made my home here, and I have brought up a family here The Mapor I ask you Mr Farrington (earnestly) I hope that you will allow me to speak. I won't be long-- The Mayor (firmly): Will you kindly sit down. Mr Farrington Certainly, if you rule me-- The Mayor: I certainly do. I don't think that it ls ProPer place for you to make explanations. Mr Farrington (protestingly) But, excuse me, sir, I think it is. It s the only chance I have. I wall told to go out of the room the other night. The Mayor then put Councillor Wallace's amend- ment to the meeting. Six voted for it, including the Mayor. Alderman Hugh Hughes's resolution was then put to the Council, and received seven votes, and the Mayor declared Alderman Hughes's resolution carried. THE MORFA. The Surveyor reported that the Morfa had been let to the Oldham Rifles. THE AUDITING OF MUNICIPAL ACCOUNTS. The Town Clerk reported that he had received, from the Town Clerk of Ruthin, a request that the Conway Corporation should follow the Ruthin Corporations example concerning the matter of auditing the account of Municipal Corporations. The Ruthin Town Council had formally petitioned the Government, under the Corporate Seal, for the Government to take measures for a compulsory Government audit of municipal accounts. On Councillor Wallace's motion, the Council decided to formally petition the Government, under the Corporate Seal of Conway. Printed and Published by R. E. Jones & Brothers, their Printing Works, 3, Rose Hill Street, Conway* and Published at the Central Library, Colwyn Bay y