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---___----CARMARTHENSHIRE…
CARMARTHENSHIRE FARMERS' CLUB. PROPOSED TESTIMONIAL TO THE SECRETARY. The quarterly meeting of the Carmarthenshire Farmers' Club was held at the Boar's Head Hotel, Carmarthen, on Tuesday last, when the following were present:—Mr A W J Stokes, Ystradwrallt, presiding Mr D H Thomas, Derllys Court; Mr W W Prosser, Alltyferin Mr Frank Gwyn, Plas Cwrt Hir; Mr Morris, Foelewan; Mr J Morris, Trefynis Mr John Evans, Cwmduhen Mr W Jones Rotten pUt Mr T W A Evans, Kidwelly Mr D Prosser, Brynderwen Mr W Davies, Penlan Mr Thomas, Cilarddu Mr Henry Davies, Trevoris-fawr Mr D H Thomas, junr., Derllwys Court Rev. R Gwynne Lawrence, Middleton Hall Rev S Jones, Llan- gunnor Mr John Thomas, Penlan; Mr H Davies, Typicca Mr Thomas, Carregwen Mr Henry Jones Davies, Bremenda Mr Ress, Llwyn- fortune Mr Jonathan Phillips, Ysgyborstone Mr John Jones, Cwmbuny; Ferry-side; Mr H D Williams, Tynycoed; Mr J William?, Penlan Mr D Hinds, Tyllwyd MrDavid Davies, Cwmmubach; Mr John Lloyd, Penybank; MrJohn Davies, Cincoed; Mr Edward Francis, Penygraig Mr Jeremy, Cwmdu Mr D E Stephens, Trawsmawr; Mr D Davies, Waundrefi Mr B Davies, Ulgaden Mr W H Jones, Danyrallt; Mr John Thomas, Llan- llwab Mr John Marks, Gellygeiros Mr Stephens, Cwm Mr David Hinds, Cwnin Mr Lewis Bishop, Llandilc Mr J^nes, Pencnwc Mr J H Thomas, Starling Park Mr Lewis, Cillefwr Mr Henry Harries, Ffosmaen Mr Griffiths, Llwynpiod; Mr T R Jones, Lletycaru Mr John P Davies, Tygwyn Mr George Thomas, Llechdwni Mr David Jones, Cwnibari Mr Thomas Jones, Penlanvoss Mr E Harries, Rhiwlwyd; Mr J L Thomas, Danlan Mr W Evans, Llwynfilltir Mr E J Williams, Pont Richard Einon Mr H Thomas, Bremendaissa; Mr T Davies, Castle Howell; Mr J Phillips Caerlleon Mr Samuel Rees, Penlan; Mr W C Bowen, Wern- mackyvith Mr John Thomas. Taleg Mr Walter Rock, Trimsaran Mr R A Brockie, Bank Mr John Francis, auctioneer; Mr Phillips, M.R.C.V.S.; Mr Rowland Browne, Carmarthen Mr H F Prit- chard, National Provincial Bank Mr H Cadle, Carmarthen Mr James Phillips, London House; Carmarthen Mr C Jones, Waterloo Mr D T Lloyd, Nott-square Mr J Jones, Priory Foundry Mr Vincent Thomas, Starling Park Mr David Griffiths, Compton House Mr W Thomas, iron- monger, Carmarthen Mr Williams, chemist, Car- marthen, Mr Walter Lloyd, auctioneer; Mr J Davies, saddler, Mr James Brigstocke, Carmarthen, Mr W Lloyd, chemist, Carmarthen Mr J Lewis, Commerce House Mr Lewis Rees, vetinary sur- geon Mr W Isaac, Old Foundry; Mr James Davies; Towy Works Mr Carpenter, Carmarthen Mr D Jones, Market Hall Mr E Thomas, Woodbine and Mr Daniel Jones, contractor. The usual spread catered for by the Hostess Olive was partaken of, and when the cloth was removed. Mr Walter E Lloyd, auctioneer, &c., of Close, Mydrim, read the following paper on THE AGRICULTURAL HOLDINGS (ENGLAND) ACT, 1883. This Act differs from the Act of 1875 in two important particulars: Firstly, it is compulsory, and applies to all agricultural or pastoral tenancies; secondly, compensation is to be paid not according to the outlay made by the out gaing tenant, but according to the value of the improvement to the landlord or incoming tenant at the time com- pensation is claimed. Thus a legal principle is established in regard to tenants' improvements which is applicable to the whole of England and Wales. The Act appears to have wrought hardly any change in the management of estates so far as I can learn, and this is probably due to the fact that by arrangement between landlord and tenant, substituted compensation can always, when desired, be agreed upon, and where there is an established custom in regard to compensation there need be no change in the existing agreements, with the excep- tion ef inserting an express provision that the com- pensation provided by such custom is to be deemed substituted compensation under the Act, and also incorporating in the written lease or agreement a schedule of improvements and the basis of compen- sation, and this I believe is what most landlords, acting upon the advice of their agents, have done. The Act is divided into three heads: (1) Compensa- tion for tenants' improvements; (2) distress; (3) fixtures. The first of these is by far the most im- portant, & to this I shall chiefly confine my remarks, adding just a word to fixtures. First then as to tenants' improvements. These are set forth in the Act in the following manner, and are dividel into three classes:— PART 1. IMPROVEMENTS TO WHICH CONSENT OF LANDLORD IS REQUIRED. (1). Erection or enlargement of buildings. (2). Formation of silos. (3). Laying down of permanent pasture. (4). Making and planting of osier beds. (5). Making of water meadows or works of irriga- tion. (6). Making of gardens. (7). Making or improving of roads or bridges. (8). Making or improving of watar courses, ponds, wells, or reservoirs, or of works for the application of water power, or for supply of water for agricul- tural or domestic purposes. (9). Making of fences. (10). Planting of hops. (11). Planting of orchards or fruit bushes. (12). Reclaiming of waste land. (13). Warping of land. (14). Embankment and sluices against floods. PART; 2.- IMPROVEMENT IN RESPECT OF WHICH NOTICE TO LANDLORD 18 REQUIRED. (15). Drainage. PART 3.—IMPROVEMENTS TO WHICH CONSENT OF LANDLORD IS NOT REQUIRED. (16). Boning of land with undissolved bones. (17). Chalking of land. (18). Clay-burning. (19). Claying of land. (20). Liming of Land. (21). Marling of Land. (22). Application to land of purchased artificial or other Durchased manure. (23). Consumption on the holding by cattle, sheep, or pigs of cake or other feeding stuffs not produced on the holding. In some of the English countijs, and especially in Lincolnshire, there is a custom which is usually admitted to be the best as regards agricultural tenancies generally. By it an improvement is estimated to last for so many years. Drainage, for instance, done by the tenant entirely at his own expense is estimated to last from 10 to 20 years. Thus drainage costing X500 is made and valued at say 20 years, or Y,25 a year. Then by each year that the tenant enjoys the benefit of the work the original amount expended is diminished, and the annually decreasing sums represents the compen- sation he will receive on quitting the holding. As for instance, the tenant having spent .£500 as suggested, quits at the end of 15 years, he will be entitled to five years unexhausted value or £ 125. Bo t contrary to this yearly principle as it is called, and also contrary to the Act of 1875, the present Åct fixes the valuation not on the amount expended but on the value of the improvement to the land- lord or incoming tenant when the outgoing tenant, quits the holding. The Act further directs that in calculating the value of an improvement male by the tenant there shall not be taken into account as part of such improvement what is justly due to the inherent, capabilities of the soil. It appears these words were inserted after a sharp fight in the Horse of Commons, as they were considered as lessening very materially the compensation a tenant would receive, as well as enhancing very consider- ably the difficulty of arriving at c. fair and just valuation of the tenant's claim, and at the same time giving proper effect to the words of this Boction. What the precise meaning of these words is it would be difficult at present to say; probably they mean no more than the ordinary rule of any valuer. The improvements for which the Act provides compensation are, as I have already stated, divided into three classes. The first are called permanent, as they last for many years, and they can only be made with the consent of the landlord when it is intended to claim compensation for them, but they may be made without such consent if it is proposed to take them away at the ">nd of the tenancy, and if they are of a removable character, T'he second class called durable, includes drainage only, and this can be done by the tenant on giving notice of his intention to the landlord. Then if the landlord does not choose to make the improvement himself the tenant can do it and claim compensation, but not until he quits the holding. Drainage is very fre- quently, and I may say m most instances in this ^art of the country, done by the lanJlord at a charge to the tenant, as a rule, of five or four per cent, on the outlay, or even a smaller charge, according as the tenant found the materials, or did the haulage or a portion of the labour. Under the Act a tenant who wishes to drain must, not more than two months and not less than one month, give his landlord notice, and in that notice he must fully set forth the manner he proposes doing the work, and they may agree amongst themselves upon the terms of compensation, I should here state that by draining no fresh fertility is imported into the soil. It is only a method of obtaining access to existing fertility, and, therefore, the increase alone in the value of the crops grown on drained land is not in itself considered a fair test of value, but the proper test, according to the Act, is the unexhausted value of the outlay with a proper reward for skill shewn in the construction and permanence of the work. The third class called manurial includes boning, claying, clay-burning, liming, marling, chalking, purchased manures, and feeding stuffs. The tenant can buy what manures he likes, and he can bring on the farm any feeding stuffs he desires, and for the improvement they have effected he will get paid, and, except in the last year of his tenancy, he can do the other six mentioned whenever and wherever he likes, and he will get paid their value when he quits. In the last year of his tenancy he must ascertain that his landlord consents to them. It will be seen that the Act gives no remedy to the "sitting tenant," whose rent is advanced on his own improvements, and this, I submit, is from a tenant's point of view, one of its greatest shortcom. inga. But, of course, it may be argued on the other side that the tenant gets the full benefit of the improvement while he continues the tenancy, which can hardly be the case, however, if the rent is raised, as the landlord immediately shares the benefit. As the principle of the present Act is based on the unexhausted value of the improve- ment at the quitting of the holding, it 'nay be well here to distinguish the beneficial from the merely stimulating application of manures, and for that purpose I will quote what Dr. Voelker said in his evidence before the Royal Commission of Agricul- ture. He said, "That the unexhausted value of manures depends upon their permanence, and he makes a great distinction between the use of artificial manures and the production in large quantities of farmyard mantire by the consumption of feeding stuffs, which should be encouraged." Light artificial manures are of no value even in the first year, except when applied in proper quantities and at the proper time. A great waste is incurred, and, no doubt, enormous sums of money are thrown away every year through the improper application of artificial manures. The effect of these manures must also largely depend on the character of the season after they are applied, whether it is wet or dry. Artificial manures should always be used in a well-pulverized condition, and just under the seed at the time of drilling, and especial care should be taken that it is well distributed. Mauures may thus be distributed into classes, viz., (1) those which increase the fertility of the soil, such as cattle foods, cake dung, &c., and (2) those which liberate existing fertility and make it available for plant food, such as lime, superphosphates, &c. Artificial manures do not perceptibly add to the fertility of the soil, but the comparatively small amount of manure ingredients which they supply is in a very active state. In cases of arbitration the practical working of the Act will always be to a great extent in the hands of the valuers or referees to be appointed under the reference clauses of the Act, but as p,)wer is given to substitute fair and reasonable compensation for compensation under the Act all agreements or leases drawn on these lines shall remain in force as the intention of the Act is not to compel landlords and tenants to enter into arbitration upon the question of unexhausted value of improvements, but to protect a tenant who has improved his holding, that either by agreement, custom, or under the Act he shall receive the unexhausted value of such improvement when he quits. Agreements which do not provide compensation for improve- ments are void both at law and in equity. The Act does not sweep away existing customs, but it appears to affect and control them largely. For instance if a tenant wishes to preserve his rights under the custom of the district in which he resides he may do so, but should he fail to establish his claim for compensation under such custom he may not afterwards so far as I can learn, fall back upon the Act for compensation, and vice versa, where his relations with the landlord are entirely governed by the Act, he will be wholly excluded from any benefit he might derive from custom, as it is held that custom once excluded is excluded for ever. The latter view, however, is not submitted without some degree of hesitation, as the Act does not seem to be very clear on this point. NOTICE TO QUIT. A year's notice expiring with the year of tenancy is made necessary, instead of a half-year's notice for determination of a tenancy from year to year made either before or after the commencement of the Act, unless the landlord and tenant by writing under their hands agree that the section shall not apply, in which case a half-year's notice shall be sufficient. FIXTURES. Just a word upon the Act in reference to these. A tenant is now at liberty to remove any engine. machinery, fencing, or other fixtures, or any build- ing he has erected before or within a reasonable time after the termination of the tenancy (if he has given his landlord the option of purchasing it, and 11 cl he has declined), provided that he observes certain rules in regard to removal, which are fully set forth in subsections 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 of sec. 34 of the Act, but which I neei not troiible you with now. All rights in regard to fixtures affixed to a hohiing I before the commencement of the Act are reserved, and may be enforced efter the Act has come in force. This provision is very important to a tenant in respect of permanent improvements which he may have made without the landlord's consent, and be- fore this Act was passed. Gentlemen, in the foregoing remarks I have endeavoured to give very briefly a summary of the Act, touching only upon those matters which I thought concerned us most nearly. Of course, it were impossible to do anything like justice to the subject on an occasion like the present without trespassing too much upon your patience, and wearying you with dry and needless details. I may, however, say this: that after reading the Act very carefully, both now and on previous occasions, I still consider, and in this I have no doubt you will agree with me, that the land question is indeed, a very difficult one to deal with. To govern fairly and justly, by any legislative enactments, the relations of landlord and tenant, to govern them, I repeat, in such a manner that. the rights of a tenant shall in all respects and under every circum- stance be fully secured to him, and at the same time the interests of the landlord be well and amply protected, is a matter that has puzzled the greatest minds. Various attempts have from time to time been made by the legislature to lessen the friction which frequently arises between landlord and tenant in connection with agricultural tenancies, but the questions arising are often of such a com- plex nature, and the conditions of agriculture vary so much in different localities, that it would be hopeless to look to any Act of Parliament to adjust every wrong, and remove or redress every grievance throughout the land. In my humble opinion, the present Act, so far as it goes, is a very good attempt in the right direction, especially those sections of it which provide that a landlord and tenant may come to terms with each other in regard to com- pensation for all improvements, provided they do so upon a fair and reasonable basis, which, as re- gards manurial improvements, is expressly stipulated in the Act, and this, gentlemen, I under- stand, is the course which has been pursued by most of the large landed proprietors, and must, eventually, be the the method which will be generally adopted throughout the country, as it is the one most likely to bring about the best and happiest solution of the problem and to contribute most to the advance- ment of agriculture. No law can, or ever will, settle the land question so well as that law of the heart, which, when in its right state, enjo:ns respect and esteem and a desire to please on the part of the tenant towards his landlord, and a kindness, and considerateness, and wish to help on the part of the landlord towards his tenant. Where their relations are governed by these kindly feelings, it is my experience that things have al- ways gone on admirably, not withstanding the adverse circumstances which often accompany depression in agriculture, and the numerous losses of one kind and another which i., is often the tenant's, and sometimes the landlord's, lot to bear. Gentle- men, I may be sanguine, but I anticipate a bright future for the agriculturists of this coun ry, and that at no very remote period. With the rapid ad- vance that education of every description is now making, and to prove this we have only to point to the government grants which are now obtainable in aid of technical education, the young Welsh farmer will very soon be supplied at his own door with a knowledge of agricultural chemistry, of the laws of vegetation, of the properties ot manures, and of the influences of climate, which will enable him in his then elevated and dignified vocation to cope with the competitive spirit of the times with far greater success than his ancestors could have done, or than be could have done himself without these ad- vantages. Yes, gentlemen, we must rise to the occasion, and immediately lay hold of those educa- tional advantages, and turn them to the best use before we can hope to make a successful stand against the foreigner, who is invading our markets with his farm produce, and selling it at a cheaper rate than wo can, beoause it has cost him less to produce. Before THE DISCUSSION counneuced, the Chairman drew attention to the 1 absence of one who should occupy the chair that day, but who was deterred from doing so by ill ness, viz Mr John Lewis Philipps, Bolahaul (applause). He thought it waa only right that they should as a club authorise their secretary to forward a letter of condolence to Mr Philipps in his present illness. The speaker was sure it was the wish of the club when he expressed his own opinion, and they all hoped to see him again soon occupying his various public capacites (loud applause). The Rev. R G. Lawrence, of Middleton Hall; thought that the Act was more in touch with the large farmers than the small farmers. But as long as a landlord kept on good terms with his tenants then there was very little need for an Act at all (applause). The more the landlord came into contact with his tenrnt there would be no cause for differences. As to drainage, Mr Lawrence was of opinion that the landlord should pay all expenses. Then as to the use of manures or phosphates he thought it was possible to overdose the land, and it was a custom with some tenants on leaving the farm to apply too much manure, which supports the one year's crop and ruins the land. Over- dosing the soil would make the land unfertile for some years. Technical education was now under discussion in the County Council, and they hoped to have & certain amount of money and a scheme in order to have a kind of college, where farmers and farmers' sons might be instructed in the rudiments of agriculture (applause). The speaker hoped that all farmers would then take advantage of all such institutions when established (applause). Mr John Williams, Penlan, Llanginning, said that it was a subject that be had not entered into very deeply, but be knew that good feeling beween landlord and tenant was the best Act of all (applause). There was in existence a moral law that, if practised would be beneficial, and there would be no need of legislation. There should be protection for the tenants, and also for the land- lords. With regard to draining, there should be no question that the expenses thereof should be borne by the landlord. It was a permanent benefit, a real profit, and gain to the landlord. As to manures, he was no great advocate of artificial manures, but the farmyard manure could not be carried up the steep hills, and thus artificial manures were useful. Undoubtedly, if they were judiciously used they would benefit the soil. He was a great advocate of education, and wished to see the young farmers haviug a scientific knowledge of the mode of treat- ing the land. Labour had gone now beyond value, and farms and land could never now pay well. There must be a great revolution in agriculture. Mr John Francis, Myrtle Hill, had had experi- ence of both sides, and the Act in itself was undoubtedly good. The difficulty was the carrying out of it. He was present in the House of Parlia- ment when the debate as to the inherent value of the land was on. A man might go on improving the land and making an outlay of money, and yet that improvement might not be of much value to the in-coming tenant. It was hard on the out-goiug tenant, as ho would be paid compensation on the value, not on the outlay spent by him. Those things seemed difficult, and a decision must be arrived at. As to the feeling between landlord and tenant, Mr Francis really thought that if the Act were settled between the tenant and his landlord that it would work better than it bad been worked. The hardship in this part of the country was the giving of two months' notice if the tenant intended claiming compensation under the Act. He had known in several instances where the tenant was utterly ignorant of the notice to the landlord. The farmer that has improved the farm could claim compensation, and the in-coming tenant's rent could be raised 35 per cent. It was a great hard- ship to those ignorant of the working of the Act. If the tenant has neglected, wasted, or destroyed, any of the holding, then the landlord could claim compensation. He did not agree with Mr Williams, Penlan, as to the drainage, as after a few years the drainage closed in and was not a permanent benefit to the landlord. Mr T. W. A. Evans, Kidwelly, had bad experience of the Act. Mr Thomas, Penlan, asked Mr Lloyd whether the tenant could sell the tenant's right ? Mr D. E. Stephens, solicitor, of Trawsmawr, said the most important points were, notices, distress, fixtures. The notice need not necessarily be made in writing. The question of distress bad been gone fully into. Before the Act of 1883 had been passed the landlord could distrain for six years rent, but since this had been statuted he could only claim one year's rent. What could they distrain upon? Stock taken on "tack" could not be distrained upon, and if a man put his cattle on another's land they are free of the Act. Then again beasts of the plough and sheep are exempt provided there are sufficient other things to distrain upon on the farm, such as hay, &c. As to drainage notice must be made in writing and delivered to the landlord before he commences with the drainage. Before the tenant makes his claim for fixtures he must give one months notice in writing of his intention to remove them. 4.11 damage done by their removal must be repaired by the tenant, and the landlord can first of all claim the fixtures at a fair price. Mr W. V. Howell Thomas, Starling Park, did not think that the act would be of great assistance to the small farmers in the immediate neighbourhood. One very strong reason was that it would possibly encourage the tenants that were inclined to be dis- honest to "do their landlords, by putting an outlay of money on the farm in order in two or three years to reap compensation. The tenant would thus be doing an injustice to the farm. The landlord should do the draining of the land. No doubt the money thus spent judiciously would benefit the landlord in time. Mr D. H. Thomas, Derllys Court, thought that the comparatively small cost put to by drainage would be nothing as ompared with the value of the land afterwards. He was in favour of the use of artificial manure. Mr Rees, Llwynfortune, having made a few remarks. Mr D. Prosser, Brynderwen, contended that from his experience drainage was not a peimanent improvement^ The soil at White House was now as good as it was 40 years ago. The drainage had closed in three years. Rev. S. Jones, R.D., Llangannor, was in favour of artificial manure, which he had used for seven yeare. Mr Lewis, Cillefwr, having made a brief address. Mr Lewis Bishop, of Llandilo, reitei ated at some length the statement made by Mr Lloyd. Mr Walter Lloyd, in replying to the various speakers, said that the calculation of compensation depends, not on the outlay of the outgoing tenant, but on the value of such improvements, to the in- coming tenant. As to selling the tenant's right he was of opinion that the outgoing tenant could with the sanction of the landlord agree with the incoming tenant. Rev. R. G. Lawrence said that his remarks at the beginning of the discussion were by no means intended to cast a slur on the agents, but only to win greater between landlord and tenant (applause). Mr Walter Lloyd said that they as agents only wished to act as mouthpieces to the landlords. Mr Williams, Penlan, and Mr John, Rotten Pill, having made a few remarks, the discussion was closed. PROPOSED TESTIMONIAL TO THE SECRETARY. Mr Walter Lloyd said he had been asked by several gentlemen to draw their attention that day to the services rendered to the club by the worthy secretary. It bad been established about the year 1853, and was then in its infancy as all institutions were at the commencement, but now it had assured gigantic proportions (applause). Now it was obvious to all that a great deal of exertion had been put forward by someone, and that one was no less than their secretary, Mr W. W. Prosser (applause). He had worked for about 30 years gratuitously, and had laboured hard throughout. But during the last five years he received a paltry Y,5 for his services. He thought it was their duty to give him a further proof of their appreciation of the services he bad rendered to the club during those years. He would propose that a testimonial be given to the secretary (applause). Mr D. H. Thomas believed Mr Prosser to be always ready to take any advice. There were few on the committee who took an active part in the work of the club, and thus the work developed upon the secretary. He seconded with great pleasure the proposal (applause.) Mr H. F. Pritchard said that for six years he bad been a member of that club, and thought that the success of any club depended entirely upon the exertions of the secretary (applause). He was the lever behind that worked and supported it (applause). He supported the motion. It was unanimously agreed that Mr Walter Lloyd be secretary and treasurer to the testimonial fund and that the Farmers' Club committee now in exist- ence be the committee to arrange and decide as to the form it should take. THE RAFFLE then took place, and resulted as follows:—Mr Henry David Williams, Tynycoed, shaft harness Mr J. Williams, Penlan, butter worker Mr David Hinds, ¡ Tyllwyd, double-mould plough; Mr David Davies, 0 Cvvmmaubach, grindstone; Mr Davies, Cyncoed, wheelbarrow; Mr D. T. Lloyd, Nott-square; wheel- barrow; Mr Thomas, Cilharvey, hay knife; Mr W. Davies, late Penlan, hay knife digging forks, Mr A. W. J. Stokes, Ystradwrallt Mr Charles Jones Waterloo House Mr H. F. Pritchard, Bank Mr John Thomas, Penlan Mr John Jones, Cwmbwrry Mr Jonathan Phillips, Scyborstone; pick axes, Mr Rees, Llwynfortune; Mr R. A. Brokie, Bank Mr Daniel Jones, contractor; Mr W. E. Bowen, Wern- chwith; Mr Samuel Rees, Penlan Mr John E. Phillips, Caerlleon mattocks, Mr E. Thomae, Woodbine; Mr T. Davies, Castle Howell Mr Henry Thomas, Bremeuda-issaf Mr E. J. Williams, Pont Richard Eynon Mr Frank GWJn, Plas Cwrt Hir; and Mr D. Jcnes, A vote of thanks to the chairman terminated the proceedings.
CARMARTHENSHIRE STANDING JOINT…
CARMARTHENSHIRE STANDING JOINT COMMITTEE. A special meeting of this committee was held at the Guildhall, Carmarthen, on Tuesday, when the following gentlemen were present :-Vi uiit "'co Emlyn (in the chair), Sir James Hills Johnes, K.C.B., V.C., Dolaucothy; Col. Gwynne- Hughes, Glancothy Mr Powell Jeffreys, Cyng- hordy Mr Charles Lloyd, Waunifor Mr J. S. Tregoning, Iscoed Mr A. W. J. Stokes. Ystra- dwrallt Mr Gwilym Evans and Mr H. Wilkins, Llanelly Mr A. Jones, Penrallt; Rev. William Thomas, Whitland Mr T. Morris, Coomb Mr J. Lloyd Thomas, Tanylan Mr J. Davies, Ffynondafolog Mr C. E. Morris, Mount Pleasant and Mr Thomas, Llanegwad. Mr Thomas Jones, clerk of the peace Mr D. Long Price, county treasurer Capt. W. Phillips, chief constable Mr Daniel Phillips, county surveyor and the justices' clerks of the five petty sessional divisions in the county were also present. THE POLICE ACT, 1890. The first business was to consider the Police Act of 1890 (53 and 54 Vict., chap. 45) for the purpose of fixing the scale thereunder of ordinary pensions in pursuance of s. s. 3, s. 3 of the Act.— The Chief Constable said that under the old Act a man could claim a pension after 15 years' service in the force, provided he was over 60 years of age and was in receipt of a medical certificate showing that he was unfit for further duty. The maximum pension was two-thirds of their salary. In other counties they had the two-thirds scale, but if that county did the same they would be giving the constables far less than what they received out of the superannuation fund at present.The committee carried on a pro- tracted discussion on the matter, during which Mr Gwilym Evans said it occurred to him that no one present seemed to understand the provisions of the old Act, and he hoped they would under- stand the new Act better.—Viscount Enilyii I hope so too.—Mr C. E. Morris said that, as it was clear their police fund was very strong, and in order to end a discussion that was quite unnecessary, he would propose that the maximum pension be fixed upon, to which proposition the constables could have no possible objection.—Mr Wilkins seconded, and it was unanimously carried. THE ERECTION OF POLICE STATIONS. This matter had been brought on owing to the Rev. Wm. Thomas's motion at the last meeting to have a lock-up house erected at Whitland.— Mr J. S. Tregoning and Mr Gwilym Evans both spoke of the great need of a police station at Burry Port, a place with 5,000 more inhabitants than Whitland. —Mr Tregoning said that the old court of Quarter Sessions had ordered plans for several lock-ups within the county to be drafted, and this had been done by Mr George, the late county surveyor, but the matter had been left in abeyance, as the County Councils were about coming into power. He had no doubt that those plans could be procured from Mr George, if required.—Rev. Wm. Thomas said he was glad the committee had become alive to their work, and as he had first moved in the matter, he thought he had the prior claim on the committee to build a station-house at Whitland. lie nrst made the motion because of the expense incurred in conveying persons from Whitland to Llanboidy. where the nearest petty sessions were held, and also that the prisoners had now to be kept in the policeman's house overnight, thereby incon- veniencing the family very much. He had an instance where a prisoner had to be kept chained to a chair in the kitchen all night. Tramps, deserters, and other persons also took great advantage of the absence of a police station at Whitland, and were very boisterous. He again proposed that a police station and court room be built there. The expense would be very little to the county, for if they built two houses for the two policemen stationed there, they could be rented for jE12 a year, and they would also be saving the great expense now incurred in conveying prisoners back and fro to Llanboidy.— Mr J. S. Tregoning proposed, and Mr Wilkins seconded, that a lock-up house be built at Burry Port, in accordance with plans approved of by the Home Secretary, and that the surveyor make enquiries and report to the next meeting on what terms land could be obtained on which to erect the same. This was carried.—Mr Charles Lloyd presented a memorial from the inhabitants of Llanybyther, strongly urging the necessity of having a police station built there. Mr Lloyd said that Llanybyther was an increasing place, it had the second largest market in South Wales and it had a much stronger claim than Whitland (laughter). He proposed "That this committee does consider a lock-up house necessary at Llanybyther."—Mr C. E. Morris seconded the Rev W. M. Thomas' motion.—Mr Tregoning said that what had been said of Llanybyther would greatly apply to Ferryside, and they ought to have a lock-up there (loud laughter.—Mr Charles Lloyd eventually added to his original motion the following words: "That the Chief Constable be requested to report upon that station (Llanybyther), and that the surveyor see whether land could be obtained on which to build such house." Mr Gwilym E^ans proposed all amendment that the Chief Constable should report on the places w here etatio os were thought to be necessary, taking spj-cial notice of Llanybyther and Whitland. Tins' was carried.— The Clerk was requested to write to the Cardiganshire Council asking if they would co-operate witfi them in building a joint lock-up for both counties at Llanybyther. JUSTICES' CLEEKS' SALAIIIEY. It was decided to adjourn the fixing of the justices' clerks' salaries in order to have a com- plete return from the clerks as to the amount of fees received at each petty sessional division during the years 1875 to 1883, when the salaries were last fixed, and also during the years 1885 to 1890. A comparison could then be made as to whether business in each division had increased or decreased, and the committee could have some ground to work upon. This decision was arrived at after a very long and desultory discus- sion. LICENSED HOUSES IN THE COUNTY. The returns from the clerks of the justices with respect to premises licensed for the sale of intoxi- cating liquors within the county were received, but they were allowed to lay on the table. and not considered, as Mr C. E. Morris, the ori ginal mover in the matter, wished the discu,ssion adjourned in order to get some additional parti- culars from the clerks. Mr Morris is of opiiion that the returns will be of great service to red uce the now unreasonable number of public-housek in the county. THE ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES OF THE HALL. j At the last meeting Mr Daniel Phillips, sur- ¡ veyor, was requested, on Mr C. E. Morris' motion, to report whether it was possible, and if so, to state by what means the human voice could be made audible in the Shire-hall. The report presented by Mr Phillips recommended that the open space before the grand jury gallery be blocked up with match boarding, the estimated cost being £5 10s.—Several of the members were afraid that the recommencation would not remedy the matter, and Mr Morris said he had heard that copper wiring stretched in mid-air across the room had been proved to be effectual, when the echo prevented persons to hear each other in a somewhat empty spacious room such as that hall. A discussion, which created much merriment, followed, and the surveyor was asked to further consider the matter, and report again to the Council.—There was no other business.
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------------CARMARTHEN TOWN…
CARMARTHEN TOWN COUNCIL. MONDAY A meeting of the Public Works Committee was held at the Guildhall, on Monday, when the follow- ing gentleman were present: Messrs T. Davies (ex-mayor), Howell Howells, John Lewis, C. W. Jones, Henry Norton, James Davies, R. W. Richards, Vaughan George, D. Griffiths, Daniel Jones, Walter Lloyd, David Lloyd and Evan Jones. Mr R. M. Thomas (town clerk), Superintendent Smith and Mr John Morgan (borough surveyor), were also present. Owing to his indisposition the mayor (Mr T. Jenkins) was unable to be present, and the ex-Mayor was voted to the chair. PLANS. Several plans were passed. A discussion arose as to a house proposed to be built by Mr Arthur in the new road, leading from Priory-street to the 11 y East Parade. The plan sho "ed the road to be only 18 feet wide, whereas the Council's bye-laws required all roads to be at least 2.J. feet wide.—Mi- Daniel Jones said Mr Arthur was ready to give five or six feet before his house as a flower garden with railings in front of it, and therefore it would not interfere with the light to the houses that would be built opposite, and it would inconvenience Mr Arthur very much if the Council did not accede to his wish. Alderman John Lewis said the Council had nothing to do with inconveniencing individuals, but they had to look after the general interests of the public. When a road was made it ought to be made according to the bye-laws. He proposed that they should not accede to the road being made anything under 21 feet.—Alderman H. Norton seconded. Mr D. Lloyd proposed, and Mr Daniel Jones seconded, that the plan be passed, saying that there were several roads in the town only IS feet wide. On being voted upon, only three voted for the amendment, and the plan was accordingly not passed. THE PROPOSED PLANTING OF TREES. Mr John Lewis rose, with great pleasure, to pro- pose that a certain number of trees be planted in Spilman-street and Lammas street to beautify the town. He had been spoken to by several persons, saying that if a few trees were planted in the streets it would enhance the place. He had been to several places, and he saw everywhere trees planted, and it beautified the streets very much.- Mr David Griffiths What part of Lammas-street do you propose to plant them in ? Mr James Davies: I hope you will not do it near my house (laughter).—Alderman Henry Norton thought the matter to be premature. It was a subject on which the inhabitants should be consulted upon. If there was not sufficient plaee to plant the trees in, they wotil-I be n, great nuisance. The streets ehould be well looked after first. especially the footpaths. He then alluded to the beastly state the asphalt was in all over the town. He proposed that the question of planting trees be he.d over for twelve months, and this was ultimately carried. THE SURVEYOR'S RECOMMENDATION. Tue Surveyor recommended that kerb stones and gutter? bp place-! in the upper end of Priory-street, near Emlyn Arms; from the cmer of Water-street to the old toll-gate; on both sides of Mansel-street and on Parade Roau, all of which were recom- mended to be done. Tin' Clnk read a petition from the inhabitants of Tabernacle terrace, asking the Council to look after the street. A discussion arose, and it was decided to ask the owners of the road to come to some understanding amongst themselves to put it into a proper state for the Council to take it over, which had not yet been done.-The old tree on the entrance to the Parade was ordered to be pruned.— There was no other business. TUESDAY. An adjourned quarterly meeting of the Council was heldat 11 a.llI.úuTu,"sday, wbeu tueUlembers present were Alderman J. Morris (chairman in the absence of the Mayor), R. W. Richards, Councillors Thos. Davies, Howell Howells, Win. Morris, E. A. Rogers, D. Griffiths, W. V. 3-eorge, H. Cadle, Daniel Jones. Walter Lloyd, and D. T. Lloyd. Nli- R M. Thomas Town Clerk; Supt. Smith, Mr John Morgan, surveyor, and Mr John William. inspector of nuisances, attended. The Chairman, before commencing business, expressed his great regret at the very serious illness of the Mayor, and trusted that before long he would be able to attend to his duties (hear, hear). COMMITTEES. The various committees were appointed. Mr E. A. Rogers, when the Council was about appointing a sanitary committee, said he believed the medical officer was anxious to get that committee appointed as there was a great deal of work to be done during the year. Mr Daniel Jones, Mr D. T. Lloyd, Mr E. A. Rogers, and Mr H. Cadle were added to the river committee. The report of the public works committee (reported above] was adopted. MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT. The Clerk read a letter from the present medical officer of health saying that he had no report to make, as he ha.d only been appoiuted at the com- mencement of that quarter. Mr John Hughes reported as follows ;—" To the Mayor and Town Council of the County of the Borough of Carmarthen. Gentlemen, — beg to present my sanitary report on your district for the quarter ending September 30th, 1S9L. The births and deaths were as follows: — Births, legitimate, mlle- 27; females, 31; illegitimate, males, 1; females, 2; total, 61. The death in public institu- tions Workhouse, males, 2 fern iles, 0 parishioners, males, 1 females, 0; non parishioners, males, 1 females, 0. Infirmary, males, 3 females. 0; parishioners, males, 1 females, 0 non- parishioner, males, 2; females. 0. Asylum, males, 1; females, 3; parishioners, males, 0; females, 0; non-parishioners, males, 1; females, 3; total, 9. The total number of deaths in the district during the quarter were 52; of these four were inquest cases, all the others having been duly certified by different medical men. Oat of the to-al number of deaths, 52 seven were those of non-paiishioueis, thus leaving 45 for those of parishioners. This is equal to aDDNal death rate of 18 2 on our estimated population, 9,890, which is not a very high rate. The only case of general disease calling for notice was one of blood poisoning, being that of a non- parishioner admitttd into the Infirmary on account of a severe accident, from the consequenco3 of which he died in a few day;. Tliere were really HO other cases requiring special notice. The district continues to be systematically aud regularly inspected by the Inspector of Nuisances, who has served 199 notices in reference to various nuisances during the quarter. As this is the last report I shall have to make to you I must avail myself of tbe opportunity of again referring to the very admir ble way in which that officer has performed all his duties during the 17 years, we have been connected in your service. Daring the whole of that period I have never once bad reason to filld fault with him for any neglect or omisniou of any of his duties, but he has ever been active, assiduous, and intelligent in the performance of his own duties and lias, so far a.s lay in his power, always helped me in the performanc,3 of mine, According to my promise I have given my succes-or, Mr W. L. Hughes, all the returns and reports of all kinds, which I have had during the last nine months, so that he will be in possession of all the necessary statistics and other date to make an annual report for the year 1890, at the p-oper time. I eiitle- men, your obedient servant, John Hughes, F. \,C. late medical officer of health, Canuart heo, October 3rd, 1890." The Public Analyst, Mr W. Morgan, said he had received and analysed three samples of milk, and the results showed that they were all equal to the recognised quality. HEAD CO^STALBE'S REPORT. The following i an pitome of the exhaustive report presented by Superintendent Sillill, Persons proceeded against, 178, being 117 iiiales and 31 females last year, 221. Class uf persons proceeded against, known thieves, 2; prostitute, 1; vagrants, 5; suspicious characters, 37; hatutual drunkard, 1; unknown, 2(5; previous good character, 106. Assault on police ùlliu6, 1, all couvicted last year, 2. Common assaulf, 27 dis- charged, 20; convicted, 7; last year G, Appli cation for sureties of the peace, 8; bound over, 3; discharged, 5; last year, 10. Bastardy orders (disobeying), 1, discharged upon payment of arrears; last year, 2. Licensing Act, drunk, and drunk and disorderly, 52; convicted and tinuu, 46; sent to prison, 2; discharged, 6; la-t year. 66. Sunday Closing Act-Illegally selling intoxicating liquor, G; convicted and fined, o; disc iar_;e« 1; last year, 6. The Head Constable adds, On the whole I consider that the licensed hous s o' the borouo-h are conducted in a satisfactory manner." Other offences under the Licensing Act. Pound on licensed premises on Sunday, 7 convielea, dis- charged, 2; last year, 7. Elementary Educuion Act, 3: convicted, 32; discharged, 1; last year, 41. Wilful damage, 2; convicted, 1; discharged, 1. Army Act, 5; convicted and nned, discharged, 2; sent to lpi-ison, I. Local Act and liorotigh Bye Laws, 2; discharged, 2. Poor Law Àct-Nglecl- ing to support family, &c., 8; orders made, 3; paid arrears, 1; imprisoned, 1; discharged, 3; last year, 4. Larceny simple, 4; discharged, 3; sent to an industrial school, I last year, 3. Vagrant Act, 5 discharged, 4: imprisoned, 1; last year, 2. Adulteration of Food and Drugs Act-Satiii-)Ies of milk taken, 15. all equal to required standard last year. 10. Highway Act, 2; fined, 1; dis- charged, I last year, 9. Crue lty to Animals Act, 4; fined, 1; discharged, 3; lust year, 1. Em- ployers and Workmen Act, 1, and discharged. Game Act, 1; lined, 1. Factory Act, 1; fined, 1. Police Act, 1; fined, 1. Indictable ofTences re- ported to the police, 7; arrested, 3 committed for trial, 2; discharged by magistrates, 1. Robberies reported to the police yetr, 12 value of pro- perty stolen, £: 3s 9d as against £ 19 8s last year; two persons were apprehended, and t value of properties recovered, zC30 12s 6d. In- secure premises: 94 doors and windows were found open by the police on their respective beats during the year; 60 of these were private houses. IS were shops, four licensed houses, six warehouses, and six windows. The police have served during the year 13 poor and borough rate summonses, and seven bastardy summonses which are not given in the Government returns. Pedlars 4,4 fees, 111. Inquest, 13 last year, 12. Weights and Measures Act: The recent Weights and Measures Act has entailed a considera ble amount of work and attention. A number of new ap- pliances had to be procured under the new Act, and somewhat complicated regulations had to be studied. I am happy to say tba' thanks to the liberality of the Council in procuring all the necessary outfit, and providing a proper room for the work of testing and adjusting, the Act is new being satisfactorily corried o ;t. To give an idea of the amount of work which the Act has given already, I may say that the small fees charged for testing and stamping scales and weights already amount to some X20 after only six weeks work. 430 scales having been stamped beside- several thousand weights and measures. I have received most valuable help in this department from Sergeant Hughes. Explosives Act Ail shops and and licensed premises for the sale of gun powder, &c. in the borcugh, have been visited by me, and I found the same properly stored, and the quantity not in excess as prescribed by the Act. Vagran.s and Tramps: During the year 1,431 tickets were given to tramps at the police-station for lodgings at the workhouse, 1,726 were so supplied last year. Tbe common lodging houses are nightly visited by police. The number of street lamps reported by the police as not being lighted and blown out, amounted to 198, notice of which was given to the Gas Company. Fire Extinguishing Apparatus: The manual fire engine and appliances are in g !od working order; the whole of the fire plugs are cleaned and examined once every fortnight; the volunteer fire brigade and police have had 17 practices during the year; five tires have occurred during the year, but neither of them, I am pleased to say, were of a serious nature. Superannuation Fund: Capital invested aid iu hand September 29th, 1890, X250 17s income for the year ending September 29th, 1890, A;52 lii-3 Id; expenditure for the year "tiding September 29'h. 1890, £ 18 10s 8d. One ex-police sergeant receives H-is bd per week from the fund as superannuation allowance. On Weduesday, the 23rd of July last your police force was inspected by Captain Elgee, H.M. Inspector of Constabulary; several members of t lu Council and the Town Clerk being present. Captain Elgee was satisfied with the manner in which everything was kept. Mr E. A. Rogors praised the superintendent on having made such a diligeut report of all the mat- ters in the borough. Referring to the fire brigade, he said there was a great deal of praise due from the Council to the young men of the brigade for the way it was carried on, and for their prompt action in extinguishing the fires. He was very sorry that one of the local papers made such a report of the brigade's practice at Guiluliall-square a short time ago; it was entirely uncalled for. The local fire brigade ought not to be discouraged, but encouraged in every possible way.-All the reports were adopted. BOARD OF CONSERVATORS. The Chairman proposed that Mr E. A. Rogers, Mr H. Cidle, and Mr D. P. Rees be appointed members of the Board of Conservators of the Car- marthen Bay Fisheiy District, as the fishermen were not not present, owing to some misunder- stanging entirely unrepresented. The proposition was carried, with the addition of Aldei ntan JoLn Morris' name.
- LAMPETER.
LAMPETER. MAYOR'S SUNDAY.—The newly elected mayor, Mr David Lloyd, attended divine service at St. Peter's Church, on Sunday last the 16th inst, accompanied by the aldermen and councillors of the borough as well as the members of the Foresters Court here. The Lampeter brass band was also in attendance, headiug the procession and playing selections of sacred music on the way to and from church. It is regretable that all the members of the council were not present at the service, more especially after the promises which they had made to the mayor at the banquet. Circumstances might have prevented some, but even in that case an intimation to the mayor would have been but common courtesy. An eloquent and suitable sermon was preached by the vicar the Rev Daniel Jones on "The unity of Christ's Church on earth from the words in Ephes, 4 ch., 1 to 6 verses. BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—The fort-niglitly meeting of the above Board was held on Friday last. Pre- sent Mr David Davies, Felindre (in the chair), Mr Lewis Davies, Gelli; Mr T. H. R. Hughes, Neuadd- fawr; Ex-ojiicios, Rev. Daniel Jones, Lampeter; Mes-rs Samuel Davies, Coedpark, David Davies, Lletti'rt wppa; Daniel Evans, Brithdir; William \\Iillianis, Clyniir-tieba John Hees, Dolgwmissaj aiiii David Evans, Coedmor-fach. (jut-relief. &e. In the Lampeter District, per Mr David Parry, ii36 0s 3d to 156 paupers; Llanybyther District, per Mr Divid Evans, X39 10s to 158 paupers. Number of inmates in the house 27; corresponding wook last year 24. Vagrants relieved during the pist fortuight 62; corresponding period last year 30. Balance in the treasurer's hands, tl96 5s 71d. j*—The Board passed a resolution consenting to the assessment committee defending the appeals which have been made by the Manchester and Milford Railway Company against the recent valuations of Mr D. P. Davies. RURAL SANITARY AUTHORITY.—A meeting of the Rural Sanitary Authority was helu after the Board of Guardians, Mr David Davies, Felindre, in the chair. The following report of the Inspector of Nuisances (Mr D. Parry Thomas) was read and considered:—"The places inspected this month are the neighbourhood of Esgerckwc, in the parish of Peucarreg; Abergorlech, a small village in the pai-isli of Llanybyther; and Breohfa, Gweruogle, and Llidiaduenog, in the parish of Llanfihangel- I Rho-ycorn. lie git(I to state that all these places, with a very few exceptions, were very saVis- factory. On accouut of the recent storm, some houses had been damaged, such as Esgerdawe-fach, in iliepai-isti of Peticarreg. Some slates had been blown away from the roof, and thus rendered it leaky. Llwynosven, a farm bouse in the same parish this house is in a very dilapidated condi- tiou for want of thatching, and early attention should be paid to it. Abergorlech, a small villaga on the southern side of Llanybyther parish, was a pattern of cleanliness, consisting mostly of new buildings, and the few thatched houses that were j there were kept clean and tidy. Brechfa was also very satisfactory. The buildings at Gwernogle, v ith the exception of a new shop and chapel, were r il her poor, but they were kept admirably well. i'be inh ibitauts of Llidiadncnog cannot less than be healthy. so far as fresh air is concerned." HIRING FAIR..—The annua) hiring fair was held here on Saturday last, and was very largely attended. The day being fine, added very much to the dtty's enjoyment, and amusements for young and old had been provided on the Common. The lov».rs of sweetmeats and toys found ample oppor- tunities to buy at the various stalls, which lined the principal thoroughfares of the town. The inasteis complained that servants were scarce, and that wages ran very high.
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