The Carmarthen Journal and South Wales Weekly Advertiser

.y- LAUGHARNE ECHOES. (BY ABERCORRAN). Laugharne, Monday. 0 MR. BROADWOOD'S RENT DINNER. Mr J. A. R. Broadwood's rent audit was held at the Globe Hotel on Friday last. In the evening the tenants on the Broadway estate, numbering over 35, sat down to an excellent spread, the caterers being Host and Hostess Benjamin, assisted by quite a staff of waitresses. It is but seldom that the tenants are honoured with Mr Broadwood's presence at the dinner; this year, therefore, has been a notable exception to the rule, and, consequently, the event passed off most agreeably and harmoniously. The Squire presided, and was supported by Mr Roscoe, Mr Carslake, and Mr Robert Pooles the vice chair being ably filled by Mr Benjamin Raymond, of Honeycorse. After the removal of the cloth, the usual loyal and patriotic toasts were given from the chair and duly honoured. — The vice-Chairman then rose to propose the f toast of the evening, and in a few brief but appropriate words proposed the health of their worthy Landlord—Mr Broadwood." The toast was accordingly drunk in a bumper amidst enthusiastic applause, and accorded musical honours.—Mr Broadwood, on rising to respond, was warmly cheered. He thanked them for the kind manner in which they had drunk his health, and for the cordial reception he had met with. He wished them all success, and trusted that the same good feeling which existed between himself and his tenants-as manifested that day-would be still farther perpetuated and consolidated.— The vice-Chairman proposed the health ot Mr Roscoe," which was drunk with musical honours. —In responding to the toast, Mr Roscoe said that, considering that he had come to empty their pockets, he took it as a good sign when they drank his health in such a kind manner. He would say that they had ever made his duties easy instead of difficult, agreeable instead of distastefnl. He was very sorry to tell them that that was the last time he would be coming down on that expedition to Laugharne, and concluded by expressing a hope that they would receive his aucceaor-Mr Carslake-in the same\way in which they had received him.—At this stage, of the proceedings it was suggested by Mr Broad- wood that the introduction of a little harmony would add zest to the evening's enjoyment. The chairman therefore called upon Abercorran for a song. The latter responded to the call by singing the Slave Chase," and, subsequently, "The Bay of Biscay."—Mr John David, King- street, in proposing the health of Mr Carslake (who succeeds Mr Roscoe) referred to the efficient manner in which Mr Roscoe had discharged his dutiea. Mr Carslake, too, would, he had no doubt, discharge those duties most efficiently. The toast was then drunk, and Mr Carslake suitably responded. He hoped the same friendly feeling which had hitherto existed between the tenants and Mr Roscoe would be extended to him (the speaker), and that when he came down amongst them he trusted all their meetings would be as pleabant as that one (applause).-The vice- Chairman here rose to propose the health of II Mr Robert Pooles." This toast was warmly received, and accorded musical honours.—Mr Poolea expressed the pleasure it afforded him in being present that evening, and thanked them for the very cordial way in which they had drunk his health. This was, he said, the first time of his coming amongst them, but he hoped it would not be the last. I have been credibly informed that Mr Pooles will from now and for- ward represent Mr Broadwood, and that Mr Charles Sharman's duties as agent expire to-day (Friday). Mr Sharman resumes his former duties on the estate.—Mr John David proposed the health of "The Vice-Chairman (Mr Ray- mond). Mr Raymond, he said, was a. man thoroughly respected and beloved by all who knew him (applause). -The Vice-Chairman, in a felicitous manner,iresponded to the toast. He trusted the chairman would excuse him from making a speech. He had heard many good speeches in his day, and he thought it highly probable that, if he failed to report himself at home in time that night, he would be treated to another good speech in the morning (laughter and applause).—Mr John David next proposed the health of Mr Lewis, Hurst House," one of the principal tenants on the estate, strongly advising that gentleman to take to himself a better half."—Mr Lewis did not know why he —a young beginner—should have been singled out for this special honour. However, he was glad to be amongst them as one of Mr Broad- wood's tenants, and he hoped to continue such as long as he lived (applause).—Several songs were then sung, and the toast of Host and Hostess brought to a close a most pleasant and enjoyable evening. CHORAL FESTIVAL. The English Choral Festival in connection with the Church Choral Union of the Archdeaconry (Lower) of Carmarthen was held in Saint Martin's Church, Laugharne, on Tuesday last, and, as usual, proved a thorough success. Three surpliced choirs took part in the procession, viz., Laugharne, Lampeter-Velfrey, and Burry Port and Barnby's processional hymn, We march, we march to victory," was thoroughly well rendered by the choirs. The following choirs were represented (with their respective clergy) Laugharne, Lampeter-Velfrey, Mydrim, Llanfi- hangel-Abercowin, Burry Port, Llanybri, Llan- mmnnck. and Llandowror, making a grand total 0- of 300 voices :-The anthem, "0 give thanks unto the Lord (E. A. Sydenham) was remark- ably well sung by the choirs, and the happy result reflects the greatest credit on the conductor and choirs alike. The first lesson wai read by the Rev. W. H. Harrison, B.A., senior curate of Laugharne, and the second by the Rev. D. Pugh p Evans, rector of Lampeter-Velfrey. The service was intoned by the Rev. D. D. Jones, B.A., vicar of Kidwelly, and an excellent sermon preached by the Rev. J. Lloyd, M.A., vicar of St. Peters, Carmarthen. The conductor was Mr. Henry Ratcliffe (Conservatorium of music, Leipzig), Choirmaster to the Union and the hon. sees., Rev. E. Jones, the Vicarage, Golden Grove and Mr. J. Lester, Carmarthen. Mr. Chas. F. Wiiliams (organist of Christ Church, Eastbourne), presided at the organ with marked judgment and ability. During the service our old friend (" Colby ") sang Arm, arm ye Brave (Judas Maccabeus) in an admirable and thrilling style. The offering was in aid of the funds of the Union. Taken all in all, I consider I should not be giving honour where honour is due, if I did not place it on record that the Festival held on Tuesday, was, in every sense of the word, a decided and unqualified success. In the afternoon—through the customary hospitality of Mrs Norton-the choirs were entertained with tea in the beautiful grounds of Laugharne Castle. The weather- being all that could be desired—added consider- ably to make the day pleasant and enjoyable to the hundreds of visitors who were present. The Laugharne Drum and Fife Band paraded the town during the afternoon. MARRIAGE OF MISS KATE WILLIAMS. On Wednesday last, in St. Martin's Church, Laugharne, Miss Kate (Catherine) Williams, second daughter of Mr Frederick Williams, of Sunny Hill, was married to Mr John Edward Kennelly, of London. The officiating clergyman was the Rev. W. H Harrison, B.A., senior curate, and the marriage service was choral throughout. The bridesmaids were as follows Miss Fanny Williams, Miss Norah Williams fsisters of the bride), Miss P. Putts, and Miss lL 1. '1. Janssen. Mr W. H. Saer was DeBt man, and I the bride was given away by her father—Mr Frederick Williams. During the service the. following pieces were played as violin solos with organ accompaniment, viz "But the Lord is mindful" (St. Paul), and 0 rest in the Lord (Elijah). The violin solos were beautifully rendered by Mr Oliver Williams (brother of the bride), the accompaniments being exquisitely rendered by Mr C. F. Williams. The above proved a rich musical treat for all true lovers of beautiful music. It pleased and delighted me, and all who listened to it must have been equally charmed. At the conclusion of the marriage ceremony, and as the wedding party were leaving the Church, Mr C. F. Williams (organist of Christ Church, Eastbourne, and brother of the bride), played Mendelssohn's Wedding March in a brilliant and effective manner. The bells rang out a merry peal as the happy couple drove off from the Church gates en route for Ilfracombe and, the wedding party returned to breakfast at Sunny Hill. The following is a list of presents to the bridegroom — Oxenden's Family Prayer, 2 vols., Rev. R. N. Buck- master Milton's Poems, Rev and Mrs W. Reed mounted butter dish and knife, Rev G. Martin Clans, curate-in-charge of St. Michael's, Wandsworth, of which the bridegroom is organist and choir-master; plated teapot, Mrs Buck- master six silver teaspoons with monogram, Mr James Kennelly; plated sugar bowl, Mrs James Kennelly silver sugar tongs, Miss A. Kennelly six silver teaspoons, Mr J. Broad silver cream jug and preserve jar, Mr F. J. I Manning breakfast cruet, mounted, Mr Seaman; dinner service, Miss Potts carver, fork and steel, Miss P. Potts; tea service, Miss A. Lawrence; table cover, Miss Palmer; cut glass tumblers, Miss Howe crumb brush and tray, Miss Rooker; table lamp, Miss B. and S. Young; dinner cruet (six bottles), churchwardens, sidesmen, and choir of St. Michael's Church eight-day clock, in walnut, and pickle forks, clerks of Messrs Cheston and Sons; cheque, Messrs Cheston and Sons knife rests, Mrs and Miss Rogers; pair of vases, the Misses Sloper twelve plated table forks, Miss Greener plated pickle stand, Mr R. Matthews music folio, Mr Cresswell mahogany cabinet, Mrs Kennelly; gold pin set with rubies, Miss K. Williams* The bride's presents were also numerous (want of space precludes my giving them here), amongst them being a handsome brilliant brooch, set in silver, the gift of the bridegroom.

LAMPETER BOARD OF GUARDIANS. A meeting of the Board of Guardians was held on Friday last. Present Mr John Fowden, Bank Hall, in the chaIr Mr T. R. R. Hughes, Noyaddfawr; Revs. Daniel Jones, Lampeter, and Daniel Griffiths, Trefilan; Messrs David Evans, Cellan David Davies, Lampeter Thomas Price, Llanycrwys William Williams and Evan Jones, Llanllwni; John Rees and David Evans, Pencarreg; and J. G. Marsden. Mr Biroham, the Local Government Board Inspector, was also present. OUT-RELIEF, &C. Lampeter district, per Mr David Parry, 233 lf). to 160 paupers Llanybyther district, per Mr David Evans, JE32 5s 5d to 140 paupers. Number of paupers in the house, 26; corresponding week last year, 21. Vagrants relieved during the past fortnight, 27 corresponding period last year, 35. el MASTER'S REPORT. The Master reported that a man named Charles Milligan, a tramping grinder and compositor, was admitted into the house .on the 31st ultimo, by order of the medical, officer. That Thomas Evans, referred to in the last report, was discharged on the 5th instant, able to go on his journey. Mr Bircham explained the position of the Union as regards out-relief, &c., as compared with other Unions, and bore good testimony to the manner in which the house was conducted. He said it was one of the cleanest and best managed of the workhouses in his district, a fact which speaks well for the officers. TREAT TO THE INMATES. The Master stated that the Chairman (Mr David Davies, Velindre) had very kindly offered to take the inmates of the Workhouse to the sea- side for a day, provided the guardians would approve of it. The guardians thought Mr Davies's offer a very kind one, and granted the request unanimously. The inmates will, therefore, be conveyed to Aberayron next Wednesday, in the four-in-hand of Mr Jonah Evans, of Bridge- street. LLANYBYTHER VACCINATION OFFICER. A letter was read from the Local Government Board declining to sanction the proposal of the guardians to pay Mr Evan Davies, the vaccina- tion officer for the above district, a salary of C5 per annum instead of a fee for each case as at present. MEDICAL OFFICER FOR LLANYBYTHER DISTRICT. A letter from M-r E. C. Thomas, surgeon, was read applying for the appointment of medical officer for the Llanybyther District, and it was unanimously resolved that he be appointed sub- ject to the approval of the Local Government Board. ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE. This committee was held after the Board, Mr John Fowden presiding. ASSESSMENT OF TITHE RENT-CHARGE. It was resolved that the motion of the Rev. Daniel Griffiths, that the rateable value and gross estimated rental in respect of tithe rent- charge in the various parishes in the Union be revised," be adjourned to the next meeting. A supplemental valuation list of the parish of Llanfairclydogau was put in, and the considera- tion of the same was adjourned to the 23rd inst. SCHOOL ATTENDANCE COMMITTEE. Rev. Daniel Griffiths in the chair. Mr David Parry, school attendance officer, reported that the summons against John Morgan, of Castell Trefilan, for neglecting to send his child to school, had been dismissed by the magistrates. A letter was read from the Local Government Board sanctioning the appointment of Mr David Evans as school attendance officer of the Llany- byther district, at a salary of B3 10s. per annum. HIGHWAY BOARD. F A meeting of the above was also held on the same day, Mr T. H. R. Hughes in the chair. MAIN ROADS. The Rev. Daniel Griffiths proposed (pursuant to notice) that the Cardiganshire County Council be aaked to take over the following roads, and' declare the same to be main roads, under the Local Government Act, 1888 :-The road leading from Aberystwith to Carmarthen, from the Ystrad Boundary to the Llanybyther Bridge, 4 miles 9 chains; the road leading-from New Court to Llanybyther Station, 3 miles 20 chains the road leading from Lampeter to Tregaron, from Troed- yrhiw, Lampeter, to Almarch, 5 miles 4 chains the road leading from Lampeter to Llanddewi- brefi, from the Lampeter Municipal Boundary, by Llettytwpa, to the boundary dividing the parishes of Llanfairclydogau and Llanddewi- brefi, 3 miles 64 chains. The motion was seconded by the Rev. Daniel Jones, and carried unanimously.

? LAMPETER. SPECIAL gzmoNs.-On Saturday last-before Mr John Forien-George Smith a tramp, was brought up in the custody of P.S. Williams charged with having refused to do the allotted work set to him at the casual ward of the Lam- peter Union that morning. Mr Evan Jones, the master of the Workhouse, proved the case. The defendant's excuse for refusing to perform the work was on ascount of his eyes, but the medical officer had examined his eyesight, andicertified that. he was able to break stones. Defendant was sentenced to seven days' hard labour. LAMPETER BRASS BAND SOCIETY.—A public meeting was held in St. Peter's Schoolroom on Thursday (8th inst.), to consider the desirability of re-starting the Lampeter Brass Band, which was disbanded in February, 1876, by a resolution of the committee. The meeting was presided over by the Vicar (Rev. Daniel Jones). Mr T. Lloyd (solicitor), Mr D. Lloyd (Dolgwm), and Mr Roderick Evans addressed the meeting, point- ing out the desirability of forming a new band, and the manner in which the former band had been begun, continued, and ended. The meet- ing was unanimously of opinion that the society should be revived, and a committee was there- upon appointed for that purpose. It was decided that the committee should consist of nine mem- bers, five of whom were to be non-members of the band. The following committee-men were accordingly chosen :—Rev Daniel Jones, chair- man Mr Roderick Evans, vice-chairman; Mr D. Lloyd, Dolgwm House Mr T. Lloyd, solici- tor Mr Samuel Davies, Emporium Mr Davies Jones, painter; Mr David Davies, Cambrian Factory; Mr Wm. Williams, do. Mr E. W. Richards, hairdresser. Mr D. F. Lloyd, of Peterwell, was chosen as secretary, and Mr Ernest Lloyd as treasurer. The working of the Society was then left to the committee. I

THE MAGAZINES. JIbe Sunday Magazine has many good and well-known names among its contributors. In the present number Archdeacon Farrar, in The Great Men of the Centuries," takes up the 5th century, and a typical Vandal, Hun„ and Ostrogoth, in the persons of Gaiseriop Odovokar, and Theodoric, the last of which is the most familiar name to general readers. Edward Garrett's story is interesting and well told, in his usual homely every day style; and. the other serial tale, Women of Love and Glory" contains some vivid and painful pictures of the horrors of the Mexican war. Among other articles may be mentioned one on "Women and Church Song;" is made more interesting by specimens of hymnology little known, but deserving of a. place in collections. Gustaf Werner and his wonder- ful and philanthropic work among orphans in Germany is the subject of another paper and sermons lor old and young give the proper Sabbatical flavour to the whole. Illustrations has many pleasant papers, notably, one on North Wales, with, many pretty sketches to add interest to the letter- press. The usual monthly survey with which the number opens calls attention to the aspects Qf. tQ.9 plant w;<jtrld,atjd, theldpinga of the bird, insect, and,anieaa world-r in August. In What Musicians think of each other there are several amusing anecdotes of grfat corn' :3 0 posers and singers. The Century, in what is designated its Mid- summer Holiday Number beginswith an account of a boating trip down the Thames, the paper being happily called "The Stream of Pleasure." The lively writing of Mrs Robins Perrell it- greatly enhanced by the charming viguettes with which her husband illustrates it. The frontispiece is an engraving of Tennyson from a photograph—apropos of which is a paper on The Bible in Tennyson," showing that our great poet, as Mr Van Dyke justly says, owes a large debt to the Christian Scriptures." Mr Kennan's paper on State prisoners at the Kara Mines gives further accounts from his graphic pen of the hardships and sufferings of those poor people who have incurred the suspicion of the Russian Government. The poison of Serpents" is another article well worth reading; and Engraving," in various styles, occupies a considerable portion of the number, the specimens given being of a high class. For lighter reading there are two tales, The Haunted House in Royal Street," and a Georgian story, called "The old Bascom Place," from the pen of Joel Chandler Harris, better known as "Uncle Remus." There is, besides, a curious tale, A Positive Romance on the tendency of man to assume a worship- ful attitude towards women." The English Illustrated Magazine has an exciting instalment of The Better Man," in which poor Tom Eckersley is condemned to death by the Gait Ring, and imagines himself too far from his friends for any hope to rescue, while we behind the scenes know of rescue coming, and have the satisfaction ere the Z5 abrupt ending of the part of knowing that it has come in time. "Saint Ilario" has some sensational situations, and a full reconcilia- tion. "Aston Hall" is well illustrated and fully described while Out-door Paris has characteristic illustrations, and is an amusing article. Charles Dickens as an Editor," by his son and namesake, supplies in a small way an omission in Mr Forster's life of the novelist, and gives a series of letters written to a lady contributor to Household Words as an example of his editorial method. Myra's Threepenny Journal is wonderful for the money, and must be valued by those who desire to keep themselves up to the pre- sent modes. Dress for every hour of the day, and for all ages, is here depicted and described, and yet there is space for needle- work and kindred subjects to be discussed, i

NEW QUAY NEWS. The regatta, which is an annual and at- tractive institution, was held at this charming little watering phce on Thursday, the 8th inst. The date is ahvays fixed in the early days of August to catch the agricultural classes, who take their brief holiday between the two har- vests. Indeed New Quay, as well as the whole of the lower coast of Cardiganshire, is becoming increasingly attractive to English visitois, and it only needs a railway to bring untold wealth to the district. The beautiful and wide expanse of scenery, together with the bold cliffs and safe sea bathing, ought to make the ports and inlets in South Cardigan- shire the resort of thousands of health- seekers from the large town*. To add to the pleasure of the visitors, and to advertise the place, a regatta committee was formed some weeks ago, consisting of the principal resi- dents, with Capt. R. Lloyd as treasurer, and Mr J. S. Evans as secretary. On the appointed day the little old-fashioned town presented a gay and enlivened appear- ance. The day was tine, with the exception of a few drops of raiti about- ten o'clock. Every available bed had been engaged the previous night, and streams of carts, carriages, drags, and various vehicles kept pouring into the town from 5 till 11. The pier was crowded, the gay colours of the ladies' dresses contrasting well with the more sober garments of'the men, hile;, overhead strings of flags. gave a very brilliant effect to the place. Most of the competitors in the sailing races had taken up their moorings on the previous evening, but two or three boats from Aberay- ron arrived at about 10 o'clock, and were much cheered as they glided, swiftty past the jetty, and came to ananckor among their rivals. About 11 a.m. a gun gave the signal f*r the cutters to get under weigh, and about tfeft minutes Inter a second gun signalled the start. The course of about 14 miles was accomplished in a wonderfully short time, considering that the breeze was slight. The other chief races were a sailing race for small cutters, a four-oared race, a two-oared race, and a lady's race, which, as usual, created much excitement. The stern fore- most race would have been won by the coast- guards had not an accident happened to them by the breaking of a rowlock. The Tivyside Brass Band was in attendance, and a steamer from Aberystwith brought a contingent of excursionists to witness the contests. The programme contained the following items:- SAILING BOATS course twice roand three buoys, a distance of about three miles.. Light breeze from west—1, Lana (Capt. Jones), £ 4; 2, Nanta (Capt. Griffiths), tl 15% -0 3, Gomer (Capt. Davies), 91. "Packet" which had ten minutes' start, came in fifth. FOUR-OARED BOATS— 1, Lizzie (Coxswain, J. Phillips), 91109; 2, John Ewing (E. P. Jones), 18s 3, Lily (D. Richards), 7s (id. PAIR-OAREDIBOATS-Cosistgttard boat, Lily, and Anne, all three fouled. Prizes divided amongst the three, 10s 8d each. LADIES' PUNT-Boats again fouled, and prize divided between Coastguard boat and Lily, 5s each. PAIR OARS, STERN FOREMOST-I, Playmate, 4s 2, Coastguard punt, 2a 6d. BOATS NOT EXCEEDING Six FEET KEEL-I. Little Anne, 2s 6d. SCULLING RACE FOR Bon; under 16-1, Play- mate, 5s 2, Lily, 2s 6d 3, Anne, Is. At the sports in the evening, which were held in a field iapar the town under the patronage of the Rector; Captain Davies, harbour master, Captain J. Lewis, aud Mr Davies, sailmaker, acted as starters, and Captain Kelly as judge. The usual amusing features of these annual InriMNIrsJ^iz., the duck hnftt and greasy pole, were not indulged in. The committee of management would do well to consider whether the programme might not be yet more attractive and appropriate if made entirely aquatic. Sailing races necessarily form the solid part of these entertainments, but they are of little interest to strangers, whereas a small pig in a basket at the end of a greasy pole is always interesting. Duck hunts—the duck to become the prize-are also amusing, and tend to encourage the art of swimming. Races in washing tubs, swim- ming races, water steeplechases, diving matches, tub hunts, where one man in a small short boat is pursued by crews in large boats; many other minor sports might well be indulged in during the intervals between the more important events, and at small cost would add much to the enjoyment of the day. It is a great pity that commwnication with 0 the towns on the Cardiganshire coast remains in Such a primitive state. The scheme for wo railway communication laid before the County council, oy Major Price Lewes, if carried to a practical conclusion, will prove of immense advantage to these-pliicoa and to the county in general. New Quay Would then become the most important harbour.,in. the bay, and not only would its fishing trade be immensely increased, -but- this lowly spot would "be rendered; accessible to the great „J)Ostt o £ pleasure-seekers. x

PRIMROSE LEAGUE MEETING, On Thursday last an unusually well- attended and interesting meeting of the I Llanarth Habitation of the Primrose League was held at Llahina, the seat of Mr C. E. Longcroft. After partaking of tea and cake, Longcroft. After partaking of tea and cake, which were provided by the kind host and I hostess on the grounds, all repaired to a spacious building; which was decorated with flags and mottoes, and converted to a suitable, comfortable concert room. The Highmead Minstrels, who had kindly come over for the occasion, gave a most interesting performance to the unbounded delight and amusement of the audience. Where all was faultlessly executed, distinctions would be invidious, but worthy of special notice was the duet sung by Messrs Davies and Bowen, and the singing and flashes of wit of Tambo (Mr J. Williams) and Bones (Mr J. D. Morgan), which elicited continuous applause and roars of laughter. Colonel Davies-Evans, who accompanied his well-trained troupe on the piano, received a perfect ovation on ascending the platform, and at the close of the meeting a hearty vote of thanks was accorded to him and the minstrels for contributing so mate- 0 rially to the pleasures of the evening. Well merited and rapturous thanks were also given to Capt. and Mrs Longcroft for their untiring efforts in attending to the wants and comforts of the large assembly. We are glad to find that the Habitation over which Mrs Long- croft so worthily presides is in a flourishing condition, and, as a proof of the utility of these social gatherings, we may state that a considerable number of new recruits joined the ranks of the League on the occasion of this entertainment. At this juncture patriot- ism demands from rich and poor alike un- sparing self-sacrificing efforts to remove from our country the reproach of anarchy and dis- loyalty. God save the Queen,"

It is understood that Mr Chaplin has been offered and has accepted office as President of the new Board of Agriculture. J. I I-.V • ,>

ROUND THE WORLD.—XI. Before proceeding further, it may be well to give some general account of the Colony of Tasmania. And for accurate information we are indebted to an old friend, Mr C. P. Lucas, of the Colonial Office in London, and chair- man of the Emigration Committee. Before leaving England we were supplied by him with the Government official handbooks for the use of emigrants, and also with Mr Lucas' own book entitled Historical Geography of the British Colonies." This latter we found quite invaluable. It is not long, but lucid, interesting, and accurate, with a good number of coloured maps up to date. And as our short account will be not only of incidents of travel, more or less exciting, and our own personal observations, but will also include some accurate statistical information, we fed that we owe this acknowledgment to Mr Lucas. I Tasmania is an island nearly the size of Ireland, situated at the southern extremity of Australia, from which it is divided by Bass' Straits, 120 miles wide. It was discovered by the Dutch navigator, Tasman, in the year 1643, and by him named Van Diemen's Land. At the end of the next century it was visited by Cook and other voyagers, but was not inhabited by Europeans till the year 1804, when some colonists from New South Wales settled in the south of the island. Tasmania is, therefore, the oldest, next to New South Wales, of the Australian Colonics. From that time, its progress, though less rapid than that of the sister colonies, has been steady. Being much smaller than any of them, the amount of land available for sheep runs was far more limited than in the other colonies. Hence properties are smaller, the population is more scattered over the country, and the villages are more frequent. The whole surface of the island is diversified with forests, rich valleys and plains, and mountains rising to 4,000 and 5,000 feet, while running streams abound in all parts. With the exception of the western part of the island, which is for the most part densely wooded, and where the coast is rugged and exposed to storms, the country is more or less dotted over with settlers. In some parts, notably in the north-west, the soil is very rich, and only requires clearing of timber to become excellent agricultural land. The northern part of the island is generally the most favourable for agriculture. Tasmania has an area" of lo £ millions of acres. About 4! million acres have been sold or granted to settlers by the Crown, and over a million acres are leased by -settlers for sheep runs or other purposes. In 1887 over 55,000 acres of Crown lands were sold to selectors at an average price of £, I 6s 5d per acre, and 478 acres of town and suburban lands at an average price of £ 6 10s 6d an acre. These siles indicate substantial pro- gress in the Colony. The climate is very healthy and genial. The winters are much warmer than in Eng- land. Snow seldom falls, or remains on the ground more than a few hours, except in high situations. If we remember rightly, we were told that snow had not been seen falling in Hobart for the last five years. Children were said to be highly amused and horses greatly astonished at the strange phenomenon. a The summers, though rather hotter, from a the greater power of the sun, than in England, are much cooler than in Australia, and the air is dry and seldom sultry. The summer mean temperature is 61 degrees and the winter 45 degrees. The greatest heat in Hobart is about 103 degrees in January and the lowest 30 degrees about June. The rainfall is very variable: that at Hobart is about the same as at Greenwich, and rain falls on Lalfthe days in the year. Many diseases which in England are often serious are comparatively slight here. The Australians fully recognize the pleasantness of the Tas- manian climate, and a great number of persons from Melbourne and Sydney go there every year to escape the heat and dust of the continent.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS IN WALES. CHIEF INSPECTOR'S REPORT. The general report for the year 1888 of Mr W. Williams, chief inspector, on the schools in the Welsh division, has just been issued. In it quotation is made from the report of Mr Pryce, of Carmarthen district, that gentlemen referring to the great increase of, population which has arisen because of the "w onderful development in the tinplate tra Similar reference is made by Mr Edwardg, "bf' the. Merthyr district, and Mr Whitmell. ^concerning Cardiff and Newport dis- trict, has the-same tale- to tell Mr Monro, at Swansea, afto testifying to growth of population. Swansea, afto testifying to growth of population. „ SCHOOL ATTENDANCE. Dealing with Carmarthen district, Mr Pryce reports, under this heading, that the attendance has improved, and has been most marked in towns and populous centres under school boards. With regard to Merthyr district, Mr Edwards states that-there has been a alightlyimproved rate of attendance. At Swaose* a different condition of things exists, for Mr Monro writes "Irregular- ity of attendance continues to be a constant source of complaint on the part of managers and tosebeiv. On the whole, the magistrates, and in many cases deservedly so, have the lion's share of the blame laid at their doors. Complaints on this head appear to be almost chronic with a certain class of teacher—not by any means the best one. Speaking generally, the teachers are much less to blame than the school attendance authorities and the magistrates. What contri- butes materially to failure in the matter of school attendance is the difficulty experienced in obtain- ing as attendance officers men suitable in personal characteristics for such a post." Of Cardiff we are told that attendance,' although good at individual schools, is still far from satisfactory as a whole. Making due allowance for unavoidable causes of absence, I am strongly of opinion (1) that parents and children still need educating as to the importance of regular attendance, and (2) that there is culpable negligence in the adminis- tration of the law. I have calculated that a rise of 5 per cent, in the average attendance at Cardiff schools would bring in about 21,000 more a year in Government grant, and would more than pay the expenses of the attendance officers. In 1886 the Cardiff Board expended 2131 10s. in prosecutions, and recovered in fines only E12 19s." ELEMENTARY AND CLASS SUBJECTS. The state of affairs in all the districts shows that, although there is still room for improvement in many ways, a steady advance is being made. One gratifying feature in Mertliyr district is the increase in the number of scholars examined in the two highest standards. Under the heading of Composition," the Chief Iuspecter reports :— I am persuaded that in Welsh-speakiog dis- tricts the translation of a suitable passage of Welsh into English would be a better exercise for the scholars than the reproduction of a story read to them in English. Regular practice in translation from Welsh into English would, if the subject were properly handled by the teacher, greatly improve the scholars' knowledge of English, and impress on their minds the differ- ence between the English and Welsh idioms." SPECIFIC SUBJECTS. Needlework and cookery are being more effi- ciently taught, and in regard to the latter espe- cially, gratifying progress has been made. The number of girls in Wales who earned a grant for cookery was 1,630, as compared with 1,005 the preceding year. "Singing by note is spreading," the chief in- spector states, and was successfully taken last year in 21 per cent. of all the departments and infant classes in this division, and in from 57 to 63 per cent. of those in the Swansea, Merthyr, Cardiff, and Carmarthen districts, the last stand- ing highest. The tonic sol-fa method is, I be- lieve, used almost universally except in the Cardiff district, in which 36 schools took the old notation." L THE WELSH LANGUAGE. Upon this subject the report continues :—"The object of the movement now in progress is not confined to teaching Welsh as a specific tfttb-ject its chief object is to utilise the child's knowledge of the language from the commencement of his school career, for developing hiB intelligence, and for acquiring a knowledge of English more effectually than is the case at present. Purely a movement which aims at improving what now cannot be considered satisfactory ought to have a fair trial, and be pushed forward by enlined educationists without waiting for a demand from the parents, most of whom naturally believe that the present system must be the best that can be devised."

LLANSTEPHAN. SUDDEN DEATH OF A POLICEMAN. Seugeant Reeves was on duty here on Tuesday night up to 12 o'clock, when he went to bed, was snddeuly taken ill, and died in six hours. Pamlysits is supposed to have been the cause of death.

GOGINAN. SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION. The triennial election took place on Tuesday at Goginan, with the following result Elected Mr Edward Hughes Bebb (C.M.), 197 votes Mr Hughes Bonsall (C.), 169 Mr John Evan James (C.M.), 157 Mr John Prys (C.M.), 142 Mr Thomas Evans (B.), 140. Non-elected Dr Eran Row. lands (C.), 117 votes Mr Wm Thomas Hill (C.), 69. Mr Hugh Hughes was the presiding and returning-officer, and Mr J. Pughe Davies poll clerk.

ABERYSTWITH. Tne SH.,kso,.i.-Abotystwith has been crowded with visitors during the last fortnight or three weeks. During three days last week as many as 5,500 people were conveyed to the town by the Cambrian Railways alone. THE ODDFELLOWS' ANNIVERSARY.—Last Tues- day the anniversary of the district lodges of St. David's Rheidol, Temple of Love, and St. Padarn took place. The members formed into procession, headed by two brass band", and the streets were paraded. Mr H. C. Fryer, J.P., and clerk of the peace for the county, presided at the subsequent dinner. THE LICENSING COMMITTEE. Thè following gentlemen were appointed borough magistrates for the ensuing year Messrs. C. M. Williams (mpyor), Dr. C. Rice Williams, Peter Jones, Thomas Hugh Jones, David Jenkin Davies, James W. Szlumper, and John Watkins, sen.— The annual licensing sessions have been fixed for Thursday, the 29th inst. GRAND BAZAAR.—Last Saturday night one of the most successful bazaars ever held at Aberyst- with was closed. It was opened in the College Hall on the previous Monday by the Earl and Countess of Lisburne, and was held in connection with St. Paul's Welsh Wesleyan Chapel. The hall and the approaches had been beautifully decorated with flags and bannerettes for the occasion and the stalls, which were numerous, were loaded with attractive, ornamental, and useful articles of a costly description. The stalls were presided over by (1) Mrs Thomas Hugh Jones, Miss Mary Jones, and Mrs Pawy, Bridge- street, assisted by the Misses Blanehard, Ethel Jones, and Hill (2) Mrs Robert Roberts, Trerddol Mrs Capt. Edwards, Portland-street; and Miss Matthias, The Laurels, assisted by Misses Edwards, St. James's-square Williams, Machynlleth Morgan, Brynmawr and Mrs Edwards, The Laurels (3) Mrs W. Morgan, Miss Morgan, 16, Great Dark Gate-street; Misses Jones (2), 44, Terrace, assisted by Miss Marian Morgan, Queen's-road, and Miss Anne Jane Jones, 8, Portland-street (4) Mrs Doughton, Great Darkgate-street; Mrs D. R. Jones, Bridge- street Mrs Morris, draper, assisted by Miss Hopkins, Rail way-terrace Miss Arthur, Queen- street; and Miss Neale, Little Darkgate-street; (4) Miss Mary Anno Morgau, 16, Great Darkgate- street, and Miss Maggie Jones, 36, Great Dark- gate-street, assisted by Miss Gladys Gibson and Master Ronald Gibson (6.) This was a flower stall, where lovely plants, ferns, &c., were arranged in a pleasing form by Mr H. L. Evans, the borough accountant. Miss Gertrude Jones, Great Darkgate-street, presided here, and proved most successful in the discharge of her duties. The young lady and her stall being so attractive, young men and others clustered around for pur- chases (7.) This was a refreshment stall which saw the early part of the week well equipped with dainties, but long before the close of the bazaar it failed to meet the demands made upon it, as all were cleared, and a substantial sum secured towards the general funds of the bazaar. This was in the charge of Mrs W. Hughes Jones, Miss Humphreys, Newfoundland-street, assisted by Mrs Westwood, Miss Wemyns, Misses Amy and Mary Atkinson, Miss Lewis, Terrace, and the Misses Reta and Ethel Burdett. The bazaar was well patronised by the townspeople and visitors, regardless of their creed, and upwards of 2600 were realised towards liquidating the large debt still remaining on the chapel. We should mention that the Rev. W. Morgan (pastor), Mr Thomas Hugh Jones, J.P., Mr H. L. Evans, and other members of the congregation and friends, rendered valuable service during the course of the week. HOLT TRINITY CjiuitcH. -The anniversary ser- vices and dedication of the new pulpit presented by Mrs Dr. Jacob Roberts, North Parade, in memory of her late brother, took place in Holy Trinity Church last Sunday. In the morning the Rev. Kenneth L. Jones, rector of St. Bride's, Manchester, preached an excellent sermon, tak- ing for his text St. John x., 11. Iu the afternoon a children's service was held, and an address delivered by the Rev. T. B. Williams, St. Peter's, Carmarthen. In the evening the Rev. Prebendary Williams (vicar) preached an eloquent sermon. The sacred edifice was crowded t) its utmost capacity, many being unable to gain admission. This Church, which was only built a little over three years ago, has already been enlarged, and its capacity is avain taxed, the vicar's and the curate's (Rev. D. W. Jenkins) efforts having met with great and continued success. The sacred edifice was built at a cost of over 95,700, of which sum £ 1,300 are still to be collected. The collections last Sunday, which amounted to nearly 22i, were devoted to this fund. THE PRIMROSE LEAGUE.—A meeting of the Executive Council of the Aberystwith Habita* tion, was held in the Conservative Club Rooms, last Monday, when the Ruling Councillor (Mrs Dr. Morgan, Nantceirio Hall), presided. There were also present Mrs Dr. C. Rice Williams, Mrs Prebendary Williams, Mrs B. Ellis Morgan,-Mrs Dr. Harris, Miss Jones (Mount Pleasaht), Miss Morgan (Nantceirio), Miss Roberts (The Green), Dr. C. Rice Williams, Mr J. Pughe Davies, Mr B. Ellis Morgan, the hon. sec., and others. On the proposition of Mrs Prebendary Williams, seconded by Mrs Dr. Rice Williams, it was unanimously resolved to hold quarterly meetings in future. It was also unanimously resolved to accept the invitation of the hon. sec. of the Marchioness (D) of Londonderry's Habitation, to visit Plas Machynlleth, on the 7th of next month, the occasion of Lord Randolph Churchill's visit to the place. Admission to the grounds will be by 6d. tickets, which include tea. Cheap railway tickets will also be issued (Is. 6d. the double journey.) Members who intend availing themselves of this opportunity of hearing Lord Randolph Churchill, must communicate with the hon. sec. of the Aberystwith Habitation, ott or before the 26th inst. Much regret was felt at the severance of Capt. Jones-Parry's official con- nection with the League, and the following reso- lution, proposed by the Ruling Councillor, and seconded by Mr J. Pughe Davies, was unani- mously passed That this meeting hears with profound regret that Capt. Jones-Parry has ceased to be the organising secretary of the Primrose League for West Gwalia, and this meeting records its deep sense of the able and signal services rendered by Capt. Jones-Parry to the League in this district." Mrs Dr. C. Rice Williams, Mrs Prebendary Williams, Mrs B. 'I Ellis Morgan, and the hon. sec. also spoke to the resolution, a copy of which was ordered to be sent toJCapt. Parry. .v. •