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

Cowlyd Joint Water Board. LIVELY PROCEEDINGS. One of the occasional meetings of this Board was held on Friday morning last at Colwyn Bay, v I the Rev. W. Venables Williams (Chairman) pre- siding. There were also present the Rev. Thomas Parry, and Messrs John Porter, Robert Evans, Daniel Phillips, John Roberts, Hugh Owen, Councillor Humphrey Lewis (Mayor of Conway), Councillor Dr. R. Arthur-Prichard, Alderman Hugh Hughes, the Clerk (Mr T. E. Parry), the Engineer (Mr T. B. Farrington, C.E.) and the Clerk-of-the-Works (Mr Moses Williams). Several ratepayers were present, including the Colwyn Bay District Council's Surveyor (Mr William Jones, A.M.I.C.E.). THE MINUTES. The Clerk read the minutes of the last meeting. The Rev. Thomas Parry said that the minutes in one particular were not correct. In those minutes, two divisions were mentioned, and the voting in each was given as five against seven. That was not correct. The voting was four against seven. The Clerk said that he was under the impres- sion that his minutes were correct, and on look- ing into his division list he found five names against seven. Among those five was the name of the Rev. W. Venables-Williams. The Rev. Thomas Parry still maintained that the minutes were not correct, and that only four had voted against seven. The Chairman said that he was one of the five who voted against the seven. Several members expressed the opinion that the minutes as read, were correct, and one or two supported Mr Parry's view. The Rev. T. Parry said that the Chairman did not vote. The Chairman I assert that I did vote. The Rev. T. Parry repeated his contradiction, and was amplifying on it when the Chairman said, hotly, Am I to understand that is the lie direct ? The Rev. T. Parry (airily) You can take it as you like. You did not vote. You counted only four, and seven against. You can call it as you like. Mr John Roberts I beg to ask is it a dispute about the Clerk's words ? What is Mr Parry's objection ? The Rev. T. Parry The Chairman counted four for the resolution, and seven for the amend- ment. Mr John Roberts Yes, but if the Clerk put it down five instead of four, you must blame the Clerk for not keeping right minutes. The Chairman I remember perfectly saying, I vote for it." Mr Robert Evans I think sir, you did vote for the last motion,—to pay for the testing of the pipes in Colwyn Bay, and you protested against the way in which some members voted in a party spirit. Dr. Prichard The question is whether the minutes are correct or not. Those remarks of the Chairman's (referred to by Mr Evans) were jocular, and lie really had no right to make any remarks of that kind. Mr Porter I think when he condemned the Conway people for voting on party lines that implies that he voted for us. Mr John Roberts I remember the Chairman expressing his view at our Council, and I take it that is confirmation of our action and that he was with us. I propose that the minutes be signed as correct. If we are to blame anybody, it should be Mr Pairy the Clerk. Dr. Prichard seconded. Alderman Hughes said that there was a remark made in Colwyn Bay that the Chairman had changed his mind. Mr John Roberts It does not matter what is said in Colwyn Bay it does not affect us as a Council. The Chairman (to Alderman Hughes): You are utterly mistaken if you think it is in regard to the resolution. Dr. Prichard Have we anything to do with the Colwyn Bay Council here, Mr Chairman? The Chairman No. It is proposed by Mr John Roberts, and seconded by Dr. Prichard, that the minutes are correct. The Rev. T. Parry Correct except in that particular. The Chairman Do you move an amendment ? The Rev. T. Parry Yes. The Chairman Anyone second it? Mr Owen I second it. The Chairman (brusquely) Then I must ask you both to stand up. Both members then stood up, one after the other, and sat down again. The Board then divided, the correctness of the minutes being asserted by a majority of six to three. The Chairman I will vote for it. The minutes were then discussed in detail, and Mr Robert Evans called attention to the fact that while in Llysfaen (which contributed to the rates) they were disconnected with the mains, several people outside the District had connexion with with the mains. He considered that that was not fair, and proposed that all outsiders be discon- nected. Rev T. Parry seconded. Alderman Hughes I beg to rise to a point of order. We have confirmed the minutes allowing these people to have the water, and now, without rescinding that motion, it is proposed to cut them off. The other resolution should first be rescinded. [Hear. hear]. Dr Prichard May I ask what Mr Evans means by outside the district ? The Chairman Outside the constituted author- ity. Anything beyond the Borough of Conway on the other side of the river, is beyond the Rural Authority. Alderman Hughes I ask for your ruling, sir, on the point of order. The Chairman I think Mr Robert Evans is right. Alderman Hughes Without any notice what- ever to rescind the previous resolution? The Chairman: N es, because they are our con- stituents. Dr Prichard You must rescind the contract with these people. The Chairman Well, if the Clerk says my ruling is wrong, I will submit. The Clerk then read the previous resolution which sanctioned certain connexions on certain conditions. In two of the cases referred-to, agreements had been duly executed. Mr John Roberts Suppose we do away with these connexions, will it help Llysfaen to a drop more water ? The Engineer Not a drop. Mr Roberts I could understand the resolution if there was not enough water in the Lake, and the object was to save as much as possible for storage, but, if we stop the whole of connexions on the other side of Sarn Mynach, it would not help us a drop. The fact is, our main is too small. The Chairman (rising) Subject to the advice given by our Clerk, I stand corrected, and, as far as the two completed agreements are concerned, notice must be given to rescind the previous resolution. Mr Evans The others are right, then ? The Chairman Yes, because there is no agreement. Mr Evans But they are connected, are they not ? The Clerk Yes. The Chairman Mr Evans means that those who have connected without permission of the Board, be cut off ? Alderman Hughes Well, is not the previous resolution That no connexions be made without an agreement with the Board," enough for Mr Evans ? The Chairman I take it he is quite content with his resolution.

CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA I Young. CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA Fresh. CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA | Invigorating. 1/6 to 3/- per lb., in Packets and Tins. Of all Grocers. Sold by T. GARLAND, The Stores, Conway.

CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA I Young. CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA Fresh. CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA | Invigorating. 1,0 to 3 per lb., in Packets and Tins. Of all Grocers. Sold by T. Gael and, The Stores, Conway.

CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA Young CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA Freah CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA Invigorating. 1/6 to 3/- per lb., in Packets and Tins. Of all Grocers. Sold by T. Gabland, The Stores, Conway.

CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA Young. CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA. Fresh. CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA Invigorating. 1/6 to 3/- per lb., in Packets and Tins. Of all Grocers. Sold by T. Garland, The Stores, Conway.

CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA I Young CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA Fresh. CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA Invigorating. 1,« to* per lb., in Packets and Tins. Of all Grocers. Sold by T. GARLAND, The Stores, Conway. o M 0 11 = 00d S S m I TV-IA I I I i 2 The most palatable, thirst-quenching, re- 5 freshing,animating tonic drink produceable H For every OPEN-AIR WORKER and all m employed in Shops. Mill- M mutactories & lIines.. 5 IMITATED BUT NOT EQUALLED. Agents Wanted. J m One 6d. bottlemakea S gallons. Of all Chemists md Stores, • SAMPLE BOTTLE FREE 9 STAMPS, 2 FOR 15 STAMPS. » In 9IBVBALL & MASON, NOTTINGHAM. ■UMMUUUHeHIUimiUH* 375-15 Printed and Published by R.jE.f Jones & Brothers, their Printing Worka, 3, RoseJHill Street, Conway» and Published at the Central Library, Colwyn B*S'

The Engineer repeated his former explanation as to how these connexions came to be made, and recommended that no supply be given without meter. The Chairman Perhaps Mr Evans will accept that. Dr Prichard moved, as an amendment, since there was a sufficient supply of water, that in all these cases water be supplied through meters. The Mayor seconded. He considered that it would be a relief to the pipes which at present had too great a pressure on them. Mr Evans If you refuse to do this, we shall have to apply to the Local Government Board. The Mayor Well, don't threaten. Mr Evans I don't think it is fair to us. As to Mr John Roberts's remarks, I can't understand it at all. Sometimes the pressure in our office here is r 30lbs at other times 60lbs and an hour after, it goes to 2olbs and then it goes up again. That is not on account of us using more water in the town. It goes down when they are using less water. I don't believe in the argument of Mr Roberts at all. Mr Roberts I ask the question through you, Mr Chairman, to Mr Farrington, Would it help Llysfaen to stop these little connexions ? The Engineer It would not. Dr Prichard Is not the pressure Mr Evans mentioned just now, too high an average for these ancient mains ? The Chairman ruled this out of order, and the Board divided ;-For the amendment 4 for Mr Evans's resolution, 5. The resolution was there- fore carried. Mr Evans I give notice of motion that, at the next meeting of the Board, I will move that the other two connexions be rescinded. And I hope the next Board will be in a month, and not in three or four months, so that we can have it done at once. The minutes of the last Board, were then con- firmed. THE FINANCE COMMITTEE. The Rev T. Parry (Chairman of the Finance Committee) reported that the Committee had had a number of bills before them, amounting to £ 184 14s. In the opinion of the Committee, the contractor ought to pay these bills. He proposed that the Committee's recommendation be adopted. The Chairman (reading) To be paid if sued for, unless the Contractor gives an indemnity for the cost of defending the case." That is the pro- posal of the Chairman of the Finance Committee. The Rev T. Parry And that will be deducted from the Contractor's account. Mr Owen seconded. Dr Prichard Well, the Contractor won't pay if we don't pay it, because there is not very much money in hand. The Rev T. Parry Is it better for us to go to law or to pay it ? The Clerk said that he had been inst ructed to send copies of these accounts to the Contractor, and had done so he had not received any reply from the Contractor. The Rev T. Parry We don't intend to pay, but, if we are sued, this resolution is to stand. The Chairman (to the Clerk): Then you advise us to pay into Court the amount that you consider we shall be liable for? The Clerk Yes. The Committee's recommendation was con- firmed. The Rev T. Parry There is another bill from Mr Porter, solicitor, which, after taxation, stands at £70. The Committee recommended that that be paid. The Committee's recommendation was con- firmed. Alderman Hughes (to the Engineer): How many men are kept in reference to the Cowlyd works. The Chairman I think we must call for the Surveyor's report, and then, if you like to ask your question again, you will get to know. SURVEYOR'S REPORT. The report was to the effect that the standpost was now fixed in the Lake, and that all the works were complete with the exception of a small portion of the embankment and bywash. The water was turned on from the standpost on the previous Tuesday, and the machinery and valves in the guage-chamber tested, and everything worked in perfect order. They were now in a position to draw from the Lake, the quantity of water available being between 300,000,000 and 400,000,000 gallons, so that a plentiful supply could be relied upon. The completion of the standpost enabled them to reduce the level of the water in the Lake, and thus stop the overflow. The Contractor would now be able to push on with the bywash and remaining part of the embankment without interfering in any way with the snpply of the District. As to the complaints of the unsatisfactory supply to Colwyn Bay, it was entirely due to the main from Sarn Mynach to Colwyn Bay being too small to keep up any- thing like a decent pressure. He suggested a continuation of the 12-inch main and the 9-inch main at estimates of from £ 6000 to £ 8000, alter- native schemes being proposed. He also suggested the construction of a reservoir at a site above the Pwllycrochon Hotel, to hold about seven days' supply for the Colwyn Bay District. From this reservoir,a separate 9-inch main should be laid down to the new 12-inch main, which would ensure a supply in case of any accident to the trunk main. The pumping engine at Groes, could be removed and fixed near the new reser- voir, and utilised for pumping water to a new reservoir to be constructed above the Pwlly- crochon Woods. This could be utilised both as a storage reservoir and for the supply of the higher portion of the District. A suitable site for this higher level was shown in his Scheme sanc- tioned by Parliament in 1878-9. Dr. Prichard, when the Engineer came to the suggestions as to new mains, objected on a point ot order. The Chairman Had'nt we better deal with the report itself? These are only suggestions. Dr. Prichard They have nothing to do with the Cowlyd Board. Mr Roberts I hope you will give the Engineer fair play. Dr. Prichard still objected. The Chairman (firmly) Mr Farrington will proceed. Mr Farrington proceeded, but was again inter- rupted by Dr. Prichard, who said, I must pro- test. This is no report of the Cowlyd Scheme. The Chairman (firmly) Mr Farrington is to proceed. Alderman Hughes I beg to ask a question. Who instructed The Chairman Mr Farrington is to proceed. Alderman Hughes I beg to ask a question. The Chairman (loudly) Mr Farrington, Mr Farrington, Mr Farrington. Alderman Hughes How is it that you allow other members. I think you have changed your mind." The Chairman Perhaps, with respect to you. Dr. Prichard Who instructed Mr Farrington to prepare this report. A confused and disorderly discussion ensued at this point, in which Mr Farrington joined, but was stopped by the Chairman. Mr Farrington held that he had a right to reply to the attacks made on him, and wished to say that he had had no instigation from any individual in the matter of the suggestions he was then making to the Board. He was doing it on his own account to clear himself of the stigma which had been cast upon the Scheme, in which he, as the author of the Scheme, was involved. It had gone abroad that the Scheme was a failure. That had appeared in all the professional papers, and all he wished to do was to disprove that. The fact was, the Scheme was not a failure. The cause of the insufficient supply of water to Colwyn Bay, was to be found in the Colwyn Bay mains, and for that reason he was offering these suggestions to the Board. If he could get his explanation into all the papers, he would not care what the Board did,—whether they acted on these suggestions or not, but he was bound to

protect his reputation from the stigma which had been cast upon his Scheme. The Chairman Mr Farrington, go on. Mr Farrington thereupon again proceeded, and had just finished reading, when Dr. Prichard said, hotly, I beg to propose that the paper be laid on the table. After the unanimous decision of the Board last time,—seven to four, or seven to five The Chairman Do you call that unani- mous ? Dr. Prichard Well,almost unanimous. [Laugh- ter]. I beg to propose that this Board do not entertain the suggestions of our Surveyor. This is a Colwyn Bay matter altogether. I move that the report be laid on the table. Alderman Hughes I beg to second, and I am very much surprised to have this report brought forward to-day, after the decision of the last Board. I can't understand how the Surveyor to our Board, in view of the direct negative carried at our last meeting on this very subject, comes here and suggests that we should carry out works that it was decided at the last meeting of the Board not to undertake. It seems to me he has had a pull by somebody, and I should like to know who it is. I beg to second the motion. Mr Roberts Does that mean the whole of the report ? Dr. Prichard There is nothing on it except with regard to Colwyn Bay. The Chairman I beg to point out to the Board the extreme seriousness of the position. It would appear to me that Dr. Prichard is repudiating Colwyn Bay altogether, as one of the Contribu- tory Authorities. Dr. Prichard No sir, I am not. The Chairman: The Engineer's report bears on the Scheme as from end to end, and, as far as I am concerned, I am not—who may have been the instigator of the Surveyor,—if such an insinuation is to be tolerated I have not the remotest notion. I think the Surveyor has done his duty in going into the whole Scheme as to the supply of water to the whole District tor which he is Surveyor as Surveyor for the Cowlyd Board. What may be required by the other Constituent Authorities, I do not know, but it is his bounden duty to look to the interests ot the whole of his District [Hear, hearl, with reference [Laughter from Dr. Prichard]. You may laugh sir, but it may be on the other side of the face soon. Dr. Prichard I think it is a pity he should not have been allowed to do his work without the Colwyn Bay Surveyor interfei ing with him. The Colwyn Bay Surveyor I did'nt interfere with him. Dr. Prichard I beg your pardon you have no right to speak here. The Colwyn Bay Surveyor And you have no right to The Chairman (sternly) Silence, Mr Jones you have no right whatever to speak here. If we are going to allow this, there are several other gentlemen here who may like to speak too. I say you are only here on sufferance, as Surveyor for Colwyn Bay, and so is every other gentleman who is not a member of this Board. The Surveyor for Colwyn Bay again muttered something, but the Chairman said, angrily, Silence Proceeding, the Chairman said,—however, that is a question you had belter deal with. I may say this, that the Engineer has done his duty to his Board, knowing the difficulties he has had to contend with. Whether there is not a trunk main running from one end of the District to another is the bone of contention I can quite see, and you have got to settle it. Now, there is a very important matter to come on this day, which bears very materially on this question, a proposition by Mr Thomas Parry, That this Board forthwith proceed to lay a 12-inch main from Sarn Mynach through the Colwyn Bay and Colwyn District, and that the opinion of Counsel be taken, jointly by this Board and the Colwyn Bay and Colwyn Urban District Council, as to which Authority is to bear the expenses, and, if jointly, in what pro- portion, and that the Authorities agree to be bound by such decision." Now I take it that in all probability Mr Engineer was supplied with-a copy of that resolution, because it has been given some time ago, if my recollection serves me right, and, in view of that resolution, I think the Engineer did that which was his duty to one of the Constituent Authorities at any rate, in pre- paring a report bearing on the resolution which Mr Parry is to move. Mr Roberts Can he move it now ? The Chairman I think it would be much bet- ter, to bring it to the point. Alderman Hughes I beg to rise to a point of order. This is a motion which has been discussed at the last meeting of the Board, and decided upon, and I wish to ask will you allow a member to bring a motion forward of this kind without rescinding the resolution passed at the last Board meeting. Dr Prichard expressed the view that the pro- posed motion was out of order. Mr John Roberts I rise to propose an amend- ment. My proposition is this, That this Board consider this report and carry it out." Mr Farrington does not say who is to pay tor it, and I am very glad there is a Board above to settle that question for us. The matter of fact is, we must have a main to carry the water of this District. I may tell you this now, Mr Chairman, that we had a Precept before us this morning, and the whole thing is to be printed. It is £2262, and out of that Colwyn Bay has to pay £1730, and the whole ot the other Districts will pay 41532, so we will be compelled to pay L298 more this year than the whole of the other Districts. The Mayor Don't you think you ought to pay more ? You are a bigger District. c Mr Roberts We are willing to pay if we get the water. People who live above the main road, are without a drop of water every day. Dr Prichard Did we ask you to pay for our mains ? We had a Scheme under which we had borrowing powers. The Chairman Order, order. Mr John Roberts It is only just to the Engineer, on behalf of himself, to say that it is not his fault that we are without water here, and I am proud of the report. I knew nothing of it, but the Engineer will tell you that, unless this main goes through this District, that these bursts will always continue on the main trunk, because of the tremendous pressure. It is a matter of must. I don't want you at Conway to pay but I want you to pay your share. I quite agree with Mr Evans there is no main going to Llystaen, and is it likely that that parish will pay for water and no main to take it there ? Dr Prichard Llangwstenin has to pay. The Chairman Order. Dr Prichard I say we are perfectly out of order, and this matter is not discussable unless you rescind the former resolution, because you have passed a resolution not to carry the Scheme beyond Sarn Mynach. The Chairman Mr Farrington says this in his report The question of who is to pay for it can be left till after." Dr. Prichard Well, you can't do that unless you rescind the other. The Rev T. Parry (repeatedly) Order, chair, chair, order Dr Prichard endeavoured to proceed, but Mr Parry kept up the cries of Chair and Order until the Mayor cried out,—"Two can play at that game." Addressing the Chairman, the Mayor said,—I am surprised, Mr Chairman, if this mailer is so very pressing, why you Colwyn Bay people don't do it. You need not be out of order for a day if you do this. Why don't you do it, and pass the thing off? You will get the money, so what's the use of squabbling and talking as we have been doing? Someone has to pay for it. The Chairman I hold that this proposition of Mr Parry's is clearly an intimation of the rescind- ing of the previous resolution, and he proposes in this, which is perfectly fair, and must recommend itself surely to the fairness of all men, that, seeing it is a disputed point, the Authorities shall agree

to take Counsel's opinion as to who is to bear the expense of it. That is a perfectly fair proposition. The Mayor It comes too soon. Dr. Prichard It should have come on the con- firmation of the minutes you have signed the minutes now. The Mayor The other resolution should first be rescinded. Dr. Prichard If this sort of thing is to go on, we can come here the next meeting, and upset the whole thing again. The Chairman I will ask Mr Farrington why he gave us this report. Dr. Prichard The explanation you gave, was that it was caused by this report. Mr Farrington My reason was that the water- supply has been very unsatisfactory. I have had to cope with enormous pressures at Conway which ought not to be kept up, and that gave rise to a question to-day as to how many men I keep to repair these pipes. This really made me take this matter into consideration. Dr. Prichard Did you consider yourself this last twelve months Surveyor to the Colwyn Bay Water-supply ? Mr Farrington was beginning to reply. Dr. Prichard (sharply) Answer me yes or no ? Again Mr Farrington began a reply, and again he was cut short by the choleric demand from Dr. Prichard,—"Answer me yes or no. This was repeated for some time, and at last Mr Farrington warmly cried out, I am not going to be dictated to in this way." Dr. Prichard You will have to. Did you con- sider yourself the Engineer for the water-supply of Colwyn Bay? Again a wrangle ensued, when the Chairman said, sternly,— Order, order sit down both of you." Mr John Roberts Did'nt you allow Mr Farrington to explain ? The Chairman Yes. In face of this unfortun- ate discussion, during which the authority of the chair has been completely defied, the question is whether you had not better put your hats on, as the members of another more august Assembly do. Mr Farrington I have prepared that report without any instruction from any individual, and without any information of the notice of motion by Mr Parry. It has been prepared in my own interest, and the answer to the question whether I consider myself the Water Engineer for the supply of Colwyn Bay is No," but I am certainly interested in the Scheme which is supposed to give water to Colwyn Bay. It is not doing that, and, before it can, something will have to be done, and, in order to do that, I have prepared a report showing what is to be done. I don't say who is to pay for it, but it is the bounden duty of some one to carry out these suggestions or similar ones, and that at once, and, until this is done, this water-supply won't be satisfactory Colwyn Bay and Llysfaen will be without water, and reflections are constantly being made which are certainly not conducive to my interests as Engineer ot the Scheme. The Cowlyd Water Scheme is constantly referred-to in the papers as a failure, but the outside public don't know why, and I hope the Press and the Board will give me credit for at least common honesty in preparing this report. I notice one member shakes his head, but, if my report will get into the papers where these things have bee 1 said damaging to me, I do not care whether the Board carries out these suggestions or not. Mr Owen thought that there must be something wrong with the pipes trom Sarn Mynach to Col- wyn Bay. They had been told the pressure diminished from Sarn Mynach to Colwyn Bay, It seemed very strange to him that, when they had the Llandudno water, the same pipes supplied the whole District. As those pipes were laid be- fore the Cowlyd Board was formed, it was quite clear to him that they belonged to Colwyn Bay, and if that Board was now going to pay for new mains for Colwyn Bay, he maintained that they at Llangwstenin ought to have their new mains paid tor by the Board. And so with the other Constituent Districts where mains had been laid by the Local Authorities. The Chairman I will put it this way Those in favour of laying the Engineer's Report on the table ? The Board divided, five members voting for laying it on the table. Four members voted against that proposition, and the Chairman, voting with them, made the voting a tie, and giving his casting vote on the same side, the proposal to lay the report on the table was defeated. The Chairman (pleasantly) Then it is to come on top of the table, you see. It is very unpleasant to have these sort of squabbles, and I would ask the Board to consent to the latter part at once of Mr Farrington's proposals. I think that will get rid of a considerable amount of difficulty, and if Colwyn Bay has any claim upon the Cowlyd Board, or if the rural parts of Llangwstenin have any claims, they should be dealt with under the terms of the latter part of Mr Parry's resolution, which proposes that we should submit the whole question, the case to be prepared for Counsel by the solicitor to the Colwyn Bay Council and the Clerk to the Cowlyd Board, as to which authority is to bear the cost. Dr. Prichard Do you mean the whole question ? The Chairman The whole question. Dr. Prichard The whole question of mains everywhere ? The Chairman Certainly. If Mr Parry will accept the suggestion I make. The Rev. T. Parry Won't you allow me to put it ? The Chairman Certainly. The Rev. T. Parry: Because it is so very serious that the work should be done at once. The Chairman You mean that it should be done irrespective of who is to pay for it ? Dr. Prichard I suppose that can't be done till after the next meeting. The Chairman Mr Parry has proposed his resolution. Dr. Prichard But this resolution can't be dealt with till the next meeting. The Chairman But, surely, if Colwyn Bay determine to do it at their own expense ? Dr. Prichard Oh, certainly. The Rev. T. Parry then moved his resolution, prefacing his remarks by saying that he had not shown it to Mr Farrington or said anything about it to that gentleman. He made that proposition because they v,ere short of water in that District. It was bound to be done by some Authority or other. Unless the Joint Board could see their way to do it, they must move in Colwyn Bay. [Ironical cries of hear, hear."] To supply the water, according to the Act, wast the duty of the Joint Board. He need not read it to them, because he hoped every one them, including Dr. Prichard, had read it for themselves. As to what Mr Owen had said, if the Joint Board would take the mains in that place to themselves he had no objection to that, provided they would take Colwyn Bay as well, because he was sure they would be best in the field. He was speaking only of the trunk main now, so that Colwyn Bay, or any other District, could have nothing to say to the trunk main, except the Joint Board. He moved his resolution. The Chairman Won't you move That a 12- inch main be laid forthwith ? Dr Pritchard Hear, hear. Under this Board! Mr Parry I quite agree. The Chairman then suggested some slight amendments to the resolution, which were accep- ted by Mr Parry, and read it out in its amended form as follows That a 12-inch main be laid forthwith from Sarn Mynach, through the Colwyn Bay and Colwyn District, and that the opinion of Counsel be taken jointly by this Board, and the Colwyn Bay and Colwyn Urban District Council, the Conway Urban and the Conway Rural Authority, and the Glan Conway Authority, as to existing mains already laid, and as to which Authority is to bear the expense, and if jointly, in what proportion, and that the Authorities agree to be bound by such decision."

Dr Prichard I don't think that should come from this Board at all. It does come from this Board, and the words this Board which ap- peared in the resolution at first may as well be left in. Alderman Hughes I am surprised that with such business men as there are in Colwyn Bay, that they have allowed this thing to go on so long as it has, and not laid new pipes down for them- selves, whoever had to pay for them. And would it not be better to have the opinion of Counsel as to the whole, as to the Llangwstenin, Llanrhos, and other mains laid down, and who is to pay the cost of the whole? The Chairman That is the very thing I am suggesting, and it is embodied in Mr Parry's resolution. I will read it again. The resolution was then read again. Dr Prichard If you leave out the suggestion that this Board do it," I won't object. The Chairman It is left out. Dr Prichard: But it is coming from this Board. Mr Roberts seconded the motion. Alderman Hughes It does not include any reference to the mains at Llanrhos and Llan- gwstenin. You may laugh, sir, but it is not down. The Clerk But the costs of all pipes will be on this resolution. Dr Prichard Would Llangwstenin get com- pensation ? The Clerk Yes, that would be refunded in the event of the appeal resulting that way. Dr Prichard And about L4000 for Conway ? The Rev T. Parry: And about ^8000 for Colwyn Bay ? The Clerk No, these new mains will be the thing. Mr Parry Oh. I can't agree to that. [Ironical laughter]. The Mayor It only refers to the trunk mains in the District. A discussion followed as to the ownership of the mains. Mr Farrington was of opinion that the Act intended that all the pipes should vest in the Joint Board. The Rev T. Parry I have no objection to that. Mr Farrington The Conway Corporation have done already what you ought to have done long ago. The most satisfactory plan would be if this Board ought to lay that 12-inch main, and it would follow, as a matter of course, that all other mains would be taken at a valuation, and become the property of this Board. The Rev T. Parry I have no objection to that, but I can assure you there will be quibblings for ever. Colwyn Bay will never be satisfied with the doings of this Board, neither will any other Authority. Every Authority will have to look after its own pipes. The Chairman read Article 21 of the Act, which provided that, if it should be necessary to use any pipes or works, the sole property of a Constituent Authority, compensation should be paid to that Constituent Authority. Dr Prichard But the present Scheme of the Cowlyd Board is complete, as the Engineer has said to-day. Mr Evans According to our Act, all these things are our property now, but we don't do our duty. Dr Prichard I don't see how we can do this for Colwyn Bay. The original contract has been let and completed, and how, in face of that contract, we can do anything for Colwyn Bay, I don't know. Mr Porter We took it for granted that our supply of water would be as good as yours. That is not the case, and, in common justice you are bound to do it. The Chairman: It is proposed and seconded, that this be done. Alderman Hughes What is the resolution ? The Chairman I will read it again. (Resolu- tion read once more). Alderman Hughes I must point out again, that that resolution contains no reference to Llan- gwstenin or anywhere else. Dr. Prichard It will meet all our views if the Colwyn Bay Authority lay these mains down then we can submit the question of who is to pay for them, to arbitration. I move, as an amend- ment, that the instruction do not emanate from this Board, but that Colwyn Bay do the work themselves, and then take Counsel's opinion as to who is to pay for it. The Chairman Again I repeat that the words that this Board are struck out. Alderman Hughes But who do you mean is to do this work ? The Chairman That has to be found out. Alderman Hughes Well, I want to find out before I vote. That resolution says the pipes are to be laid forthwith. The Chairman Well, suppose it does ? Alderman Hughes Who's to pay? The Chairman The Council will order that. Dr. Prichard Who is to borrow the money ? Mr Owen I beg to second Dr. Prichard's amendment. Colwyn Bay, if they did it, would be just in the same position as the others. I am quite willing to go in for Counsel's opinion, and, if they can get their money back, they would be quite in the same position as we are, and we would be quite willing. The Chairman What is your amendment, Dr. Prichard ? Dr. Prichard That the main be laid by the Colwyn Bay District Council through their own District, from Sarn Mynach to the end of their District, and that Counsel's opinion be afterwards taken as to which Authority is to pay for the work. The Rev. T. Parry Supposing the amendment will be carried, will this Board grant us per- mission to go through their District with our pipes ? Dr. Prichard The pipe is there already. You have power to go through now, if there is any leakage there. The Board then divided, when, to the constern- ation of the Colwyn Bay representatives, and amid the jubilant laughter of the others, Mr Robert Evans, a stout supporter of the Colwyn Bay contingent in general, was seen holding up his hand in favour of the amendment. Members of the Colwyn Bay contingent gazed reproachfully at Mr Evans, but he firmly (though smiling) maintained his position, and kept his hand up, remarking that the amendment would give Llys- faen water. Six votes were thus given for the amendment. The Chairman then said Against ? Mr Porter (mournfully): No use. Mr John Roberts (defiantly) I may as well tell you, sir, now, that this Board won't pay you one halfpenny towards the cost of your Scheme. Mr Robert Evans Has that amendment been passed, Mr Chairman ? Dr. Prichard Yes, unanimously. The Chairman No, sir. Dr. Prichard Well there was no voting against, so it must be unanimous. The Chairman explained that several members did not vote, because, as Mr Porter said, it would be of no use. Mr Evans I should like to know if we should be in order if we were to take Counsel's opinion as to who is to pay for that 12-inch main from Sarn Mynach through the Colwyn Bay District. The Rev. T. Parry I will second that. Alderman Hughes I beg to move, as an amendment, that Counsel's opinion be taken upon the whole, including Llangwstenin and other portions of the main as to who is liable to pay the cost of maintenance of the whole. I think it is only fair and straight that that should be done. Why should you at Colwyn Bay want this Board to pay for your part and not pay for anyone else's part ? I am surprised at you gentlemen acting in such a manner. Mr Phillips seconded the amendment. The Chairman It is quite clear that the Colwyn Bay Council must at once proceed to pass a resolution to proceed under Section 23, and demand arbitration. Mr Roberts That is quite right. The Chairman (quoting the Section): Because

if at any time differences arise between the Joint Board any of the Constituent Authorities respecting any matter arising out of the pro- visions of this Order, the same shall be referred to arbitration." Dr. Prichard Are you acting for the Joint Board or for the Colwyn Bay District Council ? The Chairman I am acting in common fair- ness. [Hear, hear]. Dr. Prichard Well, the other resolution has been carried. The Rev. T. Parry I move that we proceed to the next business. Mr Roberts I second. The Clerk What is to be done with the two motions which have been made ? The Chairman Are we to do away with those ? Alderman Hughes I adhere to mine. Alderman Hughes's amendment was then put to the meeting, five votes being cast for it, and five against. The Chairman gave his casting vote against it, and it was lost. Mr Robert Evans's motion, on being put to the meeting, received five votes. The Chairman Against? Dr. Prichard Oh, we don't vote the same as the others. [Laughter]. Alderman Hughes I beg to give notice that, at the next meeting of the Board, I shall move that that resolution be rescinded. Mr Roberts Whether you like it or not we shall go on. The Rev. T. Parry Perhaps it will be done by then. PURCHASE OF PART OF THE LAKE. On the motion of the Rev. Thomas Parry, it was resolved that a sum of £893 be paid as purchase-money of part of the Lake, to Mr John Williams of Cwmanog. MORE SCENES. Alderman Hughes (to the Engineer) What is the number of men permanently employed on the works by this Board, and what wages are they getting ? Mr Farrington (languidly): I don't employ any. Alderman Hughes What men do this Board employ? Surely you know what men we have. No answer. The Chairman Mr Farrington, does this Board employ any men ? Mr Farrington Yes. Alderman Hughes (sternly) Who are they ? Mr Farrington I have not got the book here. I can tell you some of the men you employ. A great number of men have had to be employed lately, to repair the mains. Mr Farrington then mentioned the names of a number of men employed by the Board, together with the wages each received. The Rev T. Parry I think we had better give notice that we will take the matter into con- sideration. The Chairman The question is, Do we require a Clerk-of-the-Works at £2 a week ? Dr Prichard Did Mr Moses WTilliams absent I himself from his duty, for some days, against the wish of the Contractor, from Thursday night till midday on Nlotiday ? Mr John Roberts seconded the Rev T. Parry's proposition. The Chairman I think Dr Pritchard is entitled to an answer. Mr Moses Williams, rising and pulling himself together, said he was very glad of an opportunity to answer questions like that. The Chairman Were you away from Thursday night until Monday morning? Mr Williams said that it was quite true^ but there was a reison for it. He had a notrce to attend a meeting of the Board that day week, and he came down on the Tnursday night, by the last train, to be in readiness tor the meeting. He did not know that the meeting had been post- poned till he saw Mr Parry, and he could not get back that night. He wished the Board not to rely on the Contractor's words. He could prove that the Contractor had sent a letter that was quite groundless against him. The Chairman Was the work delayed in con- sequence of the absence of the Clerk-of-the- Works ? Mr Farrington Mr Bugbird said that, if Mr Moses Williams had been there on Saturday, he would have had the stand-pipe in. The Rev T. Parry moved that the whole matter be gone into that day month. Mr Moses Williams again wished to speak, but the Chairman refused to allow him. Alderman Hughes I think, if the Clerk-of-the- Works has anything to say, it was only right he should he allowed to speak. Mr Roberts quite agreed. The Chairman (to Mr XVIIIIitus) Have you got a written report ? On the motion of the Rev T. Parry, it was decided that Mr Williams should write out a report, and present it at the next meeting. RESOLUTIONS FROM THE COLWYN BAY DISTRICT COUNCIL. The Agenda contained the following resolutions passed by the Colwyn Bay and Colwyn District Council, but what was decided in reference to them, we are not in a position to say. Neither can we report what was decided respecting items 5, 6, and 7 on the Agenda, as they were disposed of apparently by the Chairman and Clerk, whose conversation was inaudible to our reporter. The resolutions referred to are as follow :— That the Clerk be instructed to write to the Clerk of the Cowlyd Board for formal information required, when the Scheme will be finished, and all particulars with regard to the progress of the Works. That this Council urge on the Cowlyd Board to bring a larger main to Colwyn Bay and Colwyn District as soon as possible, and, further, that owing to the irregular supply of the Cowlyd water, and the insufficiency, that the Council will have to take steps to inquire into the reason of this insufficient supply." "That this Council inform the Conway Rural District Council that they are unable to continue to supply the water from the mains to the Llysfaen District." The items 5, 6, and 7 on the Agenda, are the following: 5. Letter from Local Government Board, with Copy of Order altering the Joint Board Order of 1891. 6. Letters from Mr Lang as to the unsatisfactory state of the water-supply for Colwyn Bay, Colwyn, and Llysfaen. 7. Notice of Audit, 4th June next." At 2.45 p.m. (having sat from 11.45 a.m.), the Board adjourned for a fortnight.