The Carmarthen Journal and South Wales Weekly Advertiser

TYCROES I.N'QL'EST.—On Wednesday, the 21st inst., Mr. J. W. Nicholas, coroner for the division, held an inquest at the Council Schools, Tycroes, concerning the death of David George Williams (21), Bryncelyn, Tycroes, who was killed by the fall of a clod on the previous day (Tuesday) at the Wernos Colliery. Mr. Dyer Lewis, Government Inspector; Mr. W. N. Jones, J.P., Dyffrvn, and Police-Inspector Davies were also present.—William Williams identified the bodv as that of his son, who had been engaged as a collier since he was 15 years of age.—Thomas John Griffiths, a collier. living at Dogwell-terrace, Saron, described how the accident occurred. Shortly be- fore 10 o'clock in the morning the deceased and himself, who were working near each other, were ordeicd by the officials to put a. post under the slant. Witness proceeded to get the coal loose, being then about four or five feet away from the deceased, when the clod fell right on Williams, who was sitting down. He was hidden by the rubbish, but was extricated as quickly as possible. and taken c on a stretcher, where he died. Deceased was not, conscious when taken out. Both of them had tested the roof that morning, and it sounded all right.— Daniel Atkins, the under-manager, said he examined the place with the fireman, and, acting under his instructions, the two men were told to put. a prop U'n ii* only j'ast left them when he was called back, and found deceased under the stone.— In reply to the Coroner, witness stated that he would have come back again to see that his in- structions were carried out. Both men were care- ful colliers. On further examination of the roof he found another slant on the lower side. and another one running parallel .-Replyin,- to the Inspector, witness said he had not tested the pron already hxed and the roof except with a stick; no mandril had been used. He thought now that it would have been better to -have had the clod down, instead of propping under it. The Coroner, in summing up, remarked that it was a simple case, the facts beino- plain and undisputed. He dwelt on the importance of the examinations of working places being thoroughly carried out by the officials. The Inspector he said, had remarked that it was easy to be wise after the event, but one could not help re- gretting that fiie-under-manager had not eith^- seen to it personally that the props had been nut up or the clod taken down. These things, however were not always feasible for a person's idea of risk might differ, and one did not pretend to say for one moment that an omission of this kind amounted to negligence. An omission to take nrecautions, which one later saw would have been an advantage on those introduced, would never amount to negligence. They hid had several cases in the last few months of examinations made by officials. and one did wish to see that these examinations were thorough and not perfunctory, and that they would thus, as far as was humanly possible prevent accidents in mines.- The jury (of which Mr. S. K. Parry was foreman) returned the following verdict :That the deceased met his death through being accidentally crushed by a stone at the WTernos Colliery

LLANSTEPHAN PARISH CorxciL. An adjourned meeting of this Council was held on Monday evening, 26th inst., when there were present: Messrs. D. W. Lewis (chairman); W Hamilton Roberts, The Elms; Wm. Howell^ Plasnewydd; D. Griffiths, photographer- David Francis, The Green; John Davies, Dyffryn- tawel Factory and Daniel Owen, Church-stwt ? task °.f cleaning and plashing the footpaths in and around the village was unanimously agreed to, and was entrusted to the supervision of Mr. Hamil- ton-Roberts, who has satisfactorily performed his part in past. year*. Reference was made to an alleged encroachment of a piece of land in the parish, and the attention of the District Council is to be drawn to the matter: also to be drawn to the presence of the various stalls erected during the summer on the sides of the leading thoroughfare, and at the busy tunes causing a block to pedes- trians, and the custom of strewing .the roadwav with various substances which are a nuisance, and which in past years required the services of the roadman to clear them away. There was no opposition to the advent of any number of these stall-keepers if they were only made to pay for their elbow room" the same as the heavily-rated inhabi- tant tradesmen have to do. It was pointed out that the latter are. all the year round, subject to keen and cutting outside comnetition, and the opportu- nity of making a little hay while the sun shines is annually spoiled by the free presence of these the«a f°r?\ °' Parag0' The sl)ot occupied bv the.e freetraders is also one which could be most advantageously used for the accommodation of seats for the visitors, a convenience which is sadly lack- +1 .vlllaSe. ^self, and which would greatly add to their comfort. The Clerk was directed to beF1tlb RliitriC\,Coun,cl1 and a8k for action to be taken in the matter, thus settling the rights of the ratepayers in the matter. For small plots or made to °n r"adside- the inhabitants' are a in? %>?* &n an?-Ual rent and a11 treated and f J 6 £ as eu U unanimlty in this matter, and the member who broached the subject was sincerely thanked for his interest in the matter. THF GREEN.-While the local parliament is mov- ng slowly in small improvements, very smart work- has been performed upon the Green in the tippin- ?ver *w<> hundred loads of earth. This has been systematically spread and kid, and is a great inv provement on this spot. Ur. E.' Stephens, The Grove and Mr. John Davies, The Green, have con- derably assisted in this arrangement, and their mmnfV ar8 greatly appreciated. Further Te S!J,'ead' and the front will ultimately show great improvement, when the pre- sent uneven spots will be levelled, and the whole sown over with grass seeds. LACK OF ACCOMMODATION. — During the N«F Iarge numbers of Sunday Schools and parties have' daily islted the place. On the whole their enjoy- ment has been very great, the wet being the only ^ar a thorough day s outing, and this brino-g to the lore the one great drawback here to the nroDer enjoyment of the visitors, and that is the wint of a public hall or room of some kind. Most places assuming the name of watering-places make an effort, from private or public sources, to provide and cater some little comfort for the visitors but J.? r^er,f ls absolutely no covered spot where a pleasant hour may be spent. A pull together to wardsuch an object would eventually-prove of pro- fit to the promoters, and comfort to visitors. h^A;VK HOUDA^-Th6 near approach of Bank Holiday finds the place not quite up to the average o previous years in point of numbers of -visitor^ but the great inrush is expected this week One great feature noticeable this year is the presence of a large number of W elsh-^merican visitors back from the land of the fe'tars and Stripes for a brief holiday in "Hen W lad y Gan. FFAIR FACH To the great joy of the young people the "Ffair Fach" this year will be'made gay by the presence of a pleasure fair. For some reason the fair last year was devoid of any such thing, but this years fair, on the 9th of August, ^0inUse's l>e I'velv, amusements for every- body, young and old, being provided.

LAGHAURNE DEATH — We regret to announce the death f lMw-,rIary A; W.lharns (May), wife of Mr John W ilhams, of Cardiff, which took place at the residence of her brother and sister, 30, Stepnev- place Llanelly, on Wednesday evening last, at the age of 41. Mrs. Williams Had had only a short ill- ness. Mr. and Mrs. Williams were well known in Laugharne, more especially Mr. Williams, who is a native of our little town, and a brother of Mr. Maurice Williams, of Ashcombe House. Much sym- pathy is felt for Mr. Williams in his great IdSs, also for the Laugharne members of the family. The funeral took place at Box Cemetery. Llanelly, on Saturday, the service being performed by the Vicar of St. Peter s. News has just reached us that Mr. Thomas Harold Thomas, of Raven House, has been successful in his examination in Chemistry and Physics at the London Hospital Medical School. Mr. Thomas has now passed in all the necessary subjects for the first year's course. W KDDIXG.—The wedding (a very quiet one) took place this morning at the Parish Church, of Mr. Evan Lewis Isaac, of Clifton-street, and Miss Catherine Frances Lloyd (district nurse), of Relate House. Mr. Evan Lewis, of Llansadwrnen, and Miss Dorah Isaac, of King-street, cousins of 1 e bridegroom, were the best man and bridesnuid respectively. The Rev. F. Atterbury-Thomas, B.A.. curate, officiated. Mr. Isaac is one of cur most popular and respected* townsmen, always tak- ing a very keen interest in sport, whilst Mrs. Isaac during the time she has acted as district nurse has endeared herself to young and old by her willing- ness to help everyone, and by her cheerful manner. We feel quite sure the District Nurse Committee will find it difficult to fill her place. We wish ti-e newly-wedded pair all happiness.

LAMPETER GOLF.—The third round in the Captain's (Dr. E. Evane) Cup Competition was played on the Poterwell Golf Links, Lampeter, on Saturday. Eight had survived the second round, and great excitement was evinced as to who would be the four semi-finalists. The day was ideal for good golf, and the greens were in excellent condition. The semi-final will be played on Saturday next, and the final on August Bank Holiday. The following four, who returned the best cards, qualified to play in the semi-final:- Dr. E. Evans, gross 102, handicap 14, nett 88; W. J. Williams, 109-14-95; D. W. Davies, 118-21- 97; R. H. Clark, 123-25-98. BEES ON THE Wi.NG.-Some consternation was caused in the vicinity of Station-terrace on Satur- day, as the bees in Principal Bebb's garden wan- dered away from their hives. People on their way to and from the railway station were in great danger of stings, some of them being stung 12 or 18 times, and a horse drawing-a cartload of hay was attacked by a host of them and stung on several parts of his body. The poor animal reared and kicked, and but for the plucky conduct of its driver great harm might have been done to pedestrians, as the horse was inclined to bolt. Several persons tried to dodge from North Road via Mill-street to the station, but they had to face the bees' in- furiated attack, and many were compelled to stay indoors on Sunday, as their countenances were wreathed in blue, and not conducive to a place of worship. Hives containing strong, lively bees should be placed at a convenient distance from a busy roadway, as they are not calculated to make a person speak the English language with propriety when attacked by them. Among the sufferers may be mentioned Councillor Jolin Jones, of the Livery- Stables, and Mr. D. Tivy Jones, ex-mayor of Lam- peter. The spelling Bee has been dead for some- thing like 30 years, and a good job too, but the present-day B is as lively as a flea. and should one of them take it into its head—or tail—to sit on anv- one's nose there will be a vacant chair very soon: CLERICAL PROMOTION.—The Rev. J. Strand Jones, B.A., formerly of this town, and a well-known International footballer, has been appointed a chaplain in the forces, and will leave for India in October. All his friends and acquaintances wish him every prosperity. THE PARISH CHURCH.—Movements are on foot to make^ preparations for the annual Christmas Tree and fancy fair in aid of tho Church Fund, and it is intended to place a new heating apparatus in the parish church for next winter, as the present system of heating is inadequate. LITERARY AND DEBATING SOCIETY. -The annual meeting of the Literary and Debating Society was held at tne Memorial Hall on Friday evening, Mr Daniel W atkins, solicitor, presiding. Tne balance- sheet, read by the secretary, Mr. W. P. Lloyd showed a balance in hand of £ 4 17s. 3d.—On the proposition of Mr. Croft, the balance-sheet was adopted. Mr. E. W'. Davies proposed that the season s games should be proceeded with as usual.- Mr. Tom Jones seconded the proposition.—Mr. Croft supported the proposition. He remarked that it a held could not be acquired he thought the Society should make a realization of the parapher- nalia and add the proceeds to the literary funds — The Secretary suggested that there was a possibility of obtaining the College School field.—Mr. Cerdvn Evans pointed out that there was another recrea- tive society in existence, and a number of persons had promised to become members.—Mr. E. W. Davies stated that there seemed to be some mis- understanding. It seemed that the property of tho Society had been acquired by the other club with- out. sanction. He had made his proposition to arrive at an understanding.—Mr. Gifford said he had heard that the property of the Society had been done away with. He would like to know why and by whose authority ?-The Chairman explained that a suggestion had been made that a recreative club should be formed in connection with the Institute, and through the kindness of the College a field had been acquired. He had discussed the matter with a number of persons, and thought himself that two clubs could not be made a success in Lampeter. It was a3 much as that society could do to find a field iast^yeur. The question arose whether the Institute Uuo should buy nets, etc. There was no time to call a meeting and he took upon himself to give permission for the use of the society's property for the first night. He was prepared to accept anv responsibility, and anyone was at liberty to pass a vote of censure.—Mr. Croft said they would not like to censure their president, but at the same time he thought, the Literarv Society should have been considered long ago. It would have been more gentlemanly and businesslike if the Institute had notified the secretary of the society so that a meet- ing couJd have been called. In his opinion the Institute had ignored the existence of the Society, and he thought it disgusting. He thought it was a piece of cheek and impudence, and the best thing they could do would be to order the things to be sent back and then make terms with the Institute Committee.—The Chairman remarked that it would have been more. respectful to pass a vote of censure than use a string of adjectives.—Mr. Arthur Ed- wards said he thought it would be better to amalgamate with the Institute.—Mr. D. P. Lloyd pointed out that the Society had considered the ad- visability of taking the College field, but the Insti- tute had stepped in between and had taken the held. The idea of the Institute is to make money, whereas the idea of the Society is to provide amuse- ment.. He suggested that the society should form a club of their own and pass a vote of censure for the way the property of the society was taken away.— Mr. Arthur Edwards proposed an amendment, that the Club should riot start their games this year.— Mr. Cerdyn Evans seconded the amendment.—Mr. Croft said he apologised if lie had caused any feel- ing in the matter.—On being put to the vote, nine voted for the proposition and nine for the amend- ment.—The Chairman gave his casting vote in favour of the amendment.—After further discussion it was agreed that the property of the Society should be sold for a sum of not less than 22. PETTY SESSIONS.-Friday, before Mr. J. C. Harford (in the chair), Mr. B. Davies-Evans, Mr. A. R. T. Jones, and Mr. W. Inglis Jones. Drunk and Disorderly.—Rees Davies, Barley Mow Lampeter, was charged by D.C.C. Williams with having been drunk and disorderly in Harford-square on the 1st inst. Defendant admitted being drunk but not disorderly. -P.C. Oliver said defendant was very disorderly, cursing and swearing. Defendant was^fined 10s., and warned that he would be sent to gaol if he offended again.—John Williams 2 Peterwell-terrace, was charged by D.C.C. Wiiimms with a similar offence committed on the 17th inst. Defendant did not appear. Evidence was given by Sergt. Thomas that the defendant was very dis- orderly, and using obscene language in Harford- square.-A fine of 2s. 6d. and costs was imposed.— Evan Rees Davies, blacksmith, CasteH, Llallybythcr, was charged with being drunk and disorderly at Llanybyther, on the 5th July. Defendant denied j charge.-P.C. Joseph Jones said defendant was drunk, shouting and using obscene language. He was also cursing. A great crowd collected, tome of whom asked defendant to be quiet. He came to- wards witness in a threatening attitude, and swing- *nfirjhls Witness had then to hold him—De- fendant cross-examined the constable at great length, and said it was only malice against him to bring the charge. The constable said in reply to defendant that he never struck him, but only held him against the wall. -Defendant, giving evidence I as said he was at the Commerce Shop buying a tin of sa mon The constable was there, and witness a*ked him to come up to supper with him or go to his mother-in-law. When he came out of the shop the constable struck him on the head and held him by the throat against the wall.-The Bench dis- missed the case for want of corroborative evidence ot the constable s story, as it was one oath against the other. Later, D.C.C. Wrilliams asked the Bench to re-consider their decision and adjourn the case, that the constable might bring several witnesses to support his case.-The Bench, however, refused to re-open it. Carnage without Lights.-William Evans, Liver- pool Stores, Lampeter, was charged by D. C.C. VV ilhams with driving a carriage without a light on July 8th. Defendant admitted the offence and was fined Is. and costs. Travelling without a Ticket. Daniel Parry Bavies, of 78 Edward-street, Maerdy, was charged by^Inspector Gwynne, G.WT.R., with travelling wTth- ou„ a ticket at Derry Ormond on June 3rd. Defen- dant admitted the offence. He was fined 10s. and costs. Mr. Picton Evans, Cardigan, appeared for the company. 11 School Attendance. -I)av d Williams, Penllyn Cellan, was summoned by E. J. Davies, attendance officer, with neglecting to send his child to school. It was stated that defendant had previously been convicted. He did not appear. The case was ad- journed to the next, sessions, the police to make en- quiries in the meantime. MARRIAGE.-On Wednesday morning last, at Soar Chapel, in this town, by licence, Mr. Thos. Thomas, oi Nantvfeinen, Llanfihangel-rhosycorn, was married to Miss Sarah Jones, of Bonton House, Lianllwni. The Rev. J. Davies, of Gwernogle, officiated, and Mr. David Evans, Eirianfa, Llanybyther, acted as registrar. The duties of best man were undertaken by the Rev. D. J. Peregrine Davies, of Pantgwyn Lampeter, and Miss M. A. Jones, of Victoria- terrace, Lampeter, was the bridesmaid. TRIP.—The Soar and other Sunday Schools in the town and district went for an excursion trip to Aber- ystwyth. The number was from five to six hundred. In the afternoon of the same day the Shiloh Sunday School had a tea party at the Memorial Hall. The tea was given by Dr. Evan Evans, and Mr. J. M. Edwards, Upper Bank.

DEATHS. GRIFFITHS. -July 28th (suddenly), at 46, Lammas- street, Carmarthen. Mr. George Griffiths, youngest on of the late Mr. Henry Griffiths, Lammas-1 street, Carmarthen, aged 44 years. STEPNEY.-On 2nd July, 1909, at Yuma, Arizona, of heart failure, Sir Emile Algernon Arthur Kep- pel Cowell Stepney, Baronet, in his 75th year. Public funeral at the Llanelly Church Cemetery j on Saturday. 31st July, 1909. Funeral service at the Parish Church at 3 o'clock. (647

CARMARTHENSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL HOUSING THE WORKING CLASSES. TAXATION OF FARMERS' CARTS. A quarterly meeting of the Carmarthenshire County Council was held on Wednesday last at tho Shire Hall, Llandilo, under the presidency of the Chairman (Mr. Tom Jones, Llancily). There were also present: Mr. John Johns, Parceithvn (vice- chairman) Mr. Mervyn Peel, Danyrallt; :\1r. Delnie Davies-Evans. Penylan; Mr. F. Dudley Wrilliams- Drummond, Hafodneddyn; Mr. R. H. Dempster, Cliff House. Laugharne; Mr. John Lewis, Meiros Hall; Mr. J. Williams, Llanybyther; Mr. Joseph Williams, Llanelly; Mr. J. Roberts, Llanelly; Mr. G. E. Bowen, Burry Port; Mr. John Lloyd, Peny- bank; Mr. D. C. Parry, Llaneliv: Mr. C. E. Morris, Penrhos, Carmarthen; Mr. D. Davies. Llandebie Mr. J. Bcvan, Llansadwrn; Mr. J. Williams, Llan- ginrnng; Mr. D. Harry, Bynea; Mr. Joseph Joseph, Llangennech; Mr. J. Simlett, Llanelly; Mr. H. Jones-Davies. Glyneiddan; Mr. T. Barrett. Glyn- walis; Mr. H. Jones-Thomas, Penrhos, Llan'fynydd • Mr. J Phillips, St, Clears; Mr. Gravelle, Llannon Mr. R. \V. Stephens, Coedybrain; Mr. T. Jones, Penronw; Mr. W. Mabon Davies, Glansawdde; Mr. D. Davies, Rhyblid; Mr. T. Morris, Garnant; Mr. John Thomas, Llanelly; Mr. John Jones, Pontar- dulais Mr. S. H. Anthony, Penlan Kidwelly; Rev R. H. Jones, Llangendeirne, and Mr. J. Ll. Thomas, Pontardulais; together with the Clerk (Mr. J. W. Nicholas), the County Treasurer (Mr. R. Peel Price) the County Architect (Mr. Vincent Morgan), and the County Surveyors (Messrs. R. Williams Jones and Lionel Jenkins). SHIRE HALL, CARMARTHEN. The Clerk said that he had received an applica- tion from the Carmarthen Board of Guardians and Rural District Council for permission to hold their meetings in the Shire Hall, as they used to do be- fore the building was renovated. The Shire Hall (Carmarthen) Committee recom- mended that the various rooms in the Shire Hall be used by the County Council and its committees as occasion may require, the Borough Council and its committees, Assizes, County and Borough Quarter Sessions, County and Borough Petty Sessions, and the County Court. They further recommended that application must first be made and the permission of the County Council obtained before the Shire Hail, or any room therein, can be used for any other purpoko. Mr. John Lloyd moved the adoption of the report. Mr. J. Williams (Llanybyther) seconded. Mr. D. C. Parry moved an amendment that the application bo not granted unless thev paid for gas, fire cleaning, etc. Had they paid anything before? The (Jerk said that they had not paid anvthing. In the arrangement, when the Shire Hall was trans- ferred from the Borough to the County, there was a reservation that the Corporation should have the tuse of the petty sessional room for all Durposes, and also, on certain occasions, the large room. They paid for light. Mr. Parry-Not for cleaning. The Clerk-No. The hall-keeper does the clean- ing and we pay him. Mr. Parry did not see why one portion of the county should be given preference over the other. Mr. John Lloyd ridiculed the idea of preference. If Llanelly Rural District Council wished to hold their meetings there they could with the County Council's sanction. The Shire Hall used to be let to everybody for public meetings, but the Com- mittee decided to restrict it to meetings for ad- ministrative purposes, and they thought that the Rural District Council came within that definition. The Rural District Council of Llandilo sat in that hall, and as long as the members of such Councils were representatives of the rateoayers he did not see why they should not be granted the use of county buildings. Mr. John Johns-But not the Crown Court Room. It is restricted to the grand jury room. Mr. J. Lloyd—Oh yes, I meant that. .y Mr. Parry moved an amendment that they charge for gas and coal, and part of the cleaning. Mr. John Lloyd-They don't sit at night (laugh- ter). Mr. Parry protested against any one portion of the county- being asked to pav for another. They should be charged for the liglit, fuel, and cleaning. There was a strong contingent from the neighbour- hood of Carmarthen that swamped the whole county, and did other parts an injustice (laughter). On a division, four voted for the amendment, and the adoption of the report was carried by a large majority. The requests of the Carmarthen Board of Guard- ians and Rural District Council were also granted. DWELLINGS ACQUISITION ACT. Mr. W. Howell, clerk of the Burry Port District Council, wrote stating that his Council had decided to adopt Section 9 ot the Small Dwellings Acquisi- tion Act, 1899, and asking the County Council to give their consent to such adoDtion as required by the Act. Mr- Mervyn Peel moved that consent, be given. The District Council by that application had shown their anxiety to adopt the Act. and ought to be supported, seeing that it incurred no liability on the County Council. Mr. J. Roberts said that the Act gave the work- ing man power to get a loan to purchase his dwel- ling at a lower rate of interest than he could other- wise get. If a workman wanted to borrow money to build his house now he had to pay high interest, but if the County Council consented to the District Council adopting the Act, then the minor authority could borrow money from the Public Works Loan Commissioners, and it could only charge half per cent, more, e.g., a man wanted to borrow JMOO. The Commissioners charged 3 per cent.; then the Dis- trist Council could only charge that man 3i per cent. They could not charge the applicant more than half per cent. on the rate they borrowed the money at. Now they knew, if a working man wanted to borrow money to buy or build his own house he had to pay a very high percentage. Mr. q. E. Bowen supported. It. would be a very good thing for the people in that district which had a desire to obtain their own houses. Under the Act they would be enabled to get their own houses to live in at a reasonable rate of interest. Mr. John Johns-I should like to know the opinion of the Clerk, if there is any legal difficulty or liability on the part of the County Council by giving the necessary consent. The Clerk—Certainly not, sir. The request was granted. STICK TO THEIR GUNS. With reference to the proposed new school at Hendy, Mr. Levi T. Rees, on behalf of a number of the inhabitants, wrote calling the attention of the Council to the action of the Education Com- mittee in taking steps to acquire compulsory powers to obtain the Clayton-road or middle site for the erection of the proposed school contrary to the unanimous voice of the ratepayers of the district expressed at three different parish meetings, when Forest-lane, or upper site, was selected. The rate- tPaVfrs objected. to be mulcted in the extra cost of obtaining compulsory powers. Mr. John Jones (Pontardulais) said that in view of the strenuous opposition, he moved the question be referred back to the Education Committee, and that it be a recommendation from the Council to the Education Committee to adopt the upper site, which could be acquired without having recourse to compulsory powers. He thought they should be urged to reconsider their decision, until they had tested the feelings of the ratepayers by ballot. Several spoke in favour of the reconsideration. Mr. John Lloyd said that the Education Commit- tee had sent three committees down and they had reported in favour of the middle site. The Educa- tion Committee tried to bring the school to the children, and not the children to the school as the petitioners wished to do. The site proposed in the letter was on top of a hill, and it was not fair to ask the children to climb up that hill. when they could have a better and more convenient site on the level. Besides there was no water supply on the top of the hill, and the cost of providing one would fall on the county. He did not think the county was prepared to bear that cost. The Architect had said that the middle site was the best, and the only site, and, concluded the speaker, "We are going to stick to that site whatever you pass here to-day" (laughter, and hear, hear). v Mr. Mervyn Peel said that the Education Com- mittee would stick to their guns. They had power to do so, and as they were. pressed foretime, it was only vyaste of time referring the matter back for reconsideration. The motion was lost by 15 votes to 13. DEEP SEA FISHERIES. The miscellaneous bills presented for payment included a sum of JS50, portion of expenses due on precept issued by Milford Haven Deep Sea Fishery Joint Committee. The Clerk said that the contributions, by the County Council, were made on the understanding that a certain return would be got for the money. For some time the money had been paid, but the benefits were all on one side, and no benefit at all accrued to the county of Carmarthen for the large sums which had been given. Appending the deci- sion of the Commissioner as to what they got for their money, as his opinion had been asked, he would suggest they defer it. The Deep Sea Fishery Committee had a sum of money in hand due to them which would be, at any rate, as much as the amount of the precepts now asked for. The suggestion was agreed to. HIGH-SALARIED OFFICIALS. The Finance Committee having passed a bill of £ 1 4s. 6d. for expenses incurred by Mr. Lionel Jenkins, surveyor tor the eastern division, in at- tending meetings at Carmarthen, recommended that the county surveyors be allowed expenses to in- clude lunch when attending the meetings of the committees and the Council. Mr. John Lloyd took exception to the recom- mendation. He thought high-salaried officials should pay for their lunch when"attending meetings. It had never been the practice to pay for luncheons. He did not know whether it was the practice of rural or town councils to pay for luncheons for their officials when they attended meetings, but if that was allowed it might set up a precedent. If they were going to lunch all their officials they would have to set up a dining-hall at Carmarthen, Llan- dilo, and Llanelly—(laughter)— and it would be a most expensive item. He did not know why the Finance Committee should go out of their way to recommend that for one official more than other officials who had been attending the meetings for many -years. It would be as well for the members of the Finance Committee to confine themselves to their duties, instead of going behind the resolu- tions of the Council. The terms of appointment in- cluded their attendance at all Ineetings. Sr. J. Williams (Llanginning) said that it was ridiculous to consider such a bill. Mr. D. C. Parry said that after Mr. Lloyd's reading from the terms of appointments the matter was entirely out of order. The Chairman ruled accordingly, and the matter dropped. TUMBLE POLICE STATION. The Council empowered the Clerk to raise by way of loan a sum of ;01,650 in connection with the p erection of the new police station at Tumble, and such further sum as the Tumble sub-committee of the Standing Joint Committee might think necessary for the purpose of providing an adequate water supply, and main drain, and boundary wall. Mr. D. C. Parry called attention to the fact that they were borrowing money at £3 17s. 6d. per cent., and he thought it was much too high. He thought the Finance Committee should meet alll see at what rate they could borrow'money. If tney could not get it from insurance companies at a lower rate he believed there were plenty of people in the county who would prefer putting their money out, on the safe investment of the Carmarthenshire rates, at 3 per cent. FARMERS' TRAPS' The Local Government Act Committee reported as follows :The Clerk reported that prosecutions had been authorised, after reports had been received, for using carriages without licences, and that four cases had been dismissed at Carmarthen and one at Liandyssul, in the Petty Sessional Division of Llanfihangel-ar-Arth, in which the police were of opinion, having regard to the facts and ^o the present law, convictions should have been recorded. The Clerk further reported that after consultation with the Superintendent, of Police engaged in the cases, he had served applications on the Justices' Clerks, and upon the Magistrates concerned asking them to state a case in order that the ooinion of the High Court might be taken on a point- of law." Considerable discussion ensued as to the con- struction of carriages, which, in the opinion of the Committee, ought to be licensed, and the question was adjourned. At the subsequent meeting the reported decisions retating to the taxability of carriages were con- sidered with a view of arriving at an uniform stan- dard to ^be adopted in future prosecutions. It was mo^ ed: That the provisions of the law continue to be enforced as at present." It was moved as an amendment that the Police be instructed not to take proceedings against the owners of traps which -but for the fact of their being fitted with back rests—would be prima facie not taxable, but the amendment, upon being put, was declared lost, and the original motion was then put, and declared to be carried.-It. was proposed, duly seconded, and resolved: "That the Standing Joint Committee be requested to allow a sum of 2s. 6d to the Police in cases under the Local Taxation Acts where a con- viction takes place, and that they be also recom- mended to apply to the Secretary of State for sanction. '-It was resolved: "That the application to Magistrates to state a case in respect to tho cases dismissed at the Carmarthen and Llanfi- hangel-ar-Arth Benches be withdrawn." Mr. H. Jones-Davies moved to rescind the resolu- t-on giving full powers to the Local Government Act Committee in reference to local taxation. He did so because lie believed that in giving them full powers they allocated too much power to the Committee. Whv should not the Com- mittee report to the County Council the result of its deliberations like any other committee. Even a quorum of three of a committee, with full powers, could decide a question of great importance to the county as a whole without the County Council having a voice in the matter. He could not see where the hurry was either. It took nearly six months before the first cases came before the magis- trates. During that six months there had been three meetings of the County Council, and including that meeting that diiy four meetings in seven months. Why on earth should that Committee have all those powers when the County Council met as often as the Committee itself (laughter, and hear, hear). Any plenary powers like those were contrary to the spirit of local government. It led to pluto- cratic and aristocratic government. At the last meeting there were eight present, and during the greater part ot the proceedings only seven. At the meeting the Committee met for the very desirable purpose of discussing what should a taxable and a non-taxable trap-a very good thing to do in order to have uniformity throughout the county. The tub-shape or market cart. it was agreed, should be non-taxable, and then came the question whether the "back-rest" should be granted, and it was re- solved by a majority of one not. to allow the back- rest. He would give them one case. A farmer's daughter had to go to Llanelly market, distant 16 or 17 miies. with agricultural produce. According to the resolution that young girl would have to travel to market and back without a back-rest. The girl was a pupil at the intermediate school where physical training was taught, but tlje strange thing about it all was that among the four members who voted against the back-rest were two prominent managers of the intermediate school where the girl attended (laughter). No doubt they were proud of the physical training. Then again an old man of 70 years had a trap, beyond the pensionable age, as far as traps went, it being over 50 years in existence. In future that old man, bowed down with weight of years, would have to go 24 or 25 miles to market without a back-rest in order to conform with that resolution ("Shame"). Surely such fantastical pro- posals as those only exasperated and irritated the people in following their peaceful avocation. If they expected the police to hunt down poor people for the sake of a back-rest they could not expect the police to retain that respect and confidence of the people. He asked was it not time that the Council put an end to the exasperating, irritating, petty-fogging poiicy of the Local Government Act Committee. When cases have come before the magistrates they have been dismissed. What struck him most .was that when the magistrates had dis- missed the cases, they were cast aside, and he brought his motion forward in order to save the fair name of the Council from the Local Govern- ment Act Committee. The defence wouid be that it was the law of the land, but were they going to deal with technicalities. There were two ways of carrying out the law—one harsh, restrictive, irrita- tive, and the circumspective. Mr. David Davies seconded. Mr. John Lloyd-At what meeting did we give full powers to the committee? Mr. Jones-Davies—On the 27th January, and it is the 28th to-day, so I have six months and a day (laughter). Mr. D. C. Parry supported. He had a case in point. A cottager's wife came to Llanelly with a. gambo, with springs under it, to fetch grocery. On her way back she overtook her mother, who is between 70 and 80 years of age. She picked her up, but before she gor\ home a police-sergeant stopped her, took her name and address, and pro- ceedings were taken against her. Her husband ap- peared, and the case was adjourned twice. In the end he was fined 2s. 6d. Such cases were irritating, and the irritation they would cause in the county would bring the police and the law into contempt. It was full time they did something to put things into decent shape. Mr. Mervyn Peel also supported the motion. To his mind they ought to have a voice in the rules that the Local Government Act Committee were going to make in regard to such extremely impor- tant questions affecting the welfare and industrv of the people. He, along with a large number of memoers, was not on the committee, and when thev saw the committee making rules of that kind, and arbitrarily determining what was going ro be a mar- ket cart, and what was not going to be a market cart; what was going to be a load, and what was not going to be a load, according to their discre- tion, without any reference whatever to that County Council, he thought they were giving them too much power. He thought they ought to have the final decision in matters affecting the principal in- dustry of the people of ihe county—agriculture. He was strongly in favour of all those matters com- ing before the County Council. so that each mem- ber could give utterance to his own views on the question. He admitted it was a verv good thing to get money into the county funds," but they did not want to do it in any unjustifiable manner. They wanted to do it fairly and squarely, and not abuse it by over-exercising their authority. 'Mr. -earr y said that all he could gather from the resolution of the committee was that farmers' wives and daughters were nor worthy of back-seats and splash boards. They must needs get their dresses and produce all splashed with mud when gorfig to market. That seemed to him the wisdom of the Local Government Act Committee (laughter). Mr. J. Williams (Llanginning) said that the pur- poses for which the trap was used should be taken into consideration. Mr. John Johns said that he was chairman of the Local government Act Committee, but he was not present when the resolution was passed, otherwise it would not have been passed (laughter). It was never intended to give the power to the committee to decide questions of that kind—as to what a tax- able trap should be. The committee was given power only to administer the Act. He asked Mr. Davies not to press the motion but to let the com- mittee know that the Council disigreed with their decision. They would not be able to carry out the Act unless they had a committee to call whenever necessary. The power of prosecution must be dele- gated to a committee, or else they would have a "Special meeting of the council every week. Mr. Davies was anxious to close the stable door after the horse had escaped. Mr. John Lloyd said that the recision of re reso- lution would be tantamount to a vote of censure or want of confidence in the committee which they had entrusted with that work six months ago. He maintained the work could not be carried out by the County Council. They had to deal with people who had not taken out licences, and some men did not like to have their names published in County Council meetings. Had not the Small Holdings Act j I Committee, of which Mr. H. Jones-Davies was chairman, full powers, and the- Education Com- mittee full powers? He had never pitched upon those, and why withdraw powers from theni., Mr. David Davies—Because you have erred (laughter). Mr. Llo 'N-(i-He tells us the weight of years of a farmer, but he never told us the weight of his pocket (laughter). Continuing, he said that some of them had very heavy pockets, and some of them could well afford to pay for a trap when they took their wife and family for a bit of a jaunt (laughter). Each case came before the committee, and no piosecution was undertaken without it coming be- fore the committee for the members to deal with. He did not see what grievance there was and he was not sure whether Mr. Jones-Davies had nor. signed for a prosecution before now. The com- mittee only said that the law should be carried out. If they deviated from that thev did not know where they were. It had been" said that through an Act. of Parliament, no matter how judiciously drawn up. they could drive a coach and four through, but if they added his friend's amendmeut, then BARNUM & BAILEY'S greatest show on earth could easily be driven through (loud laughter). As far as he knew, peoplo who took out trap licences did not object, to do :>0, but they did object to see heaps of people using traps who did not pay at all. Those people who did not take out licences when they went to a funeral borrowed a trap from a man who paid a licence. He paid for a trap, but he did not like to see a man get off as long as he had to pay. The intention of the Local Government Act Committee to make peo- ple pay who ought to pay, and who got off scot free before. Mat was the result? They had got an in- crease of 935 licences, which meant an increased revenue by £ 700 a year. That meant £ 700 towards the relief of the rates. It was JB700 less money to get from the ratepayers, the majority of whom "had no traps. His policy was the greatest good for the greatest number, which was good sound Liberalism. By getting that JE:700 in a judicious way they saved those ratepayers who did not enjoy trips about tho county in a style like that. As for irritation, he supposed it was irritable to have to pay taxes at all (laughter). No doubt they would like to saddle all taxes on the ratepayers (laughter), but the law ;-aid they must pay and they must keep the law Mr. J. Phdlips said that Mr. Lloyd said that the matter was being brought forward because the mem- ber could not make himself heard. MI". Lloyd-l never said anything of the sort, and you had better withdraw it. The Chairman—I didn't understand him say so Mr. Phillips—Then I apologise. Mr. Lloyd—You'd better (laughter). Jrr. J. Phillips thought it was ridiculous to sav n cart, used solely for carrying produce, simply be- cause it had a back-rest, was taxable. Thev should tax the traps used for pleasure only. The Com- mittee had decided to grant premium to the police tor the capture of non-hcenced traps, but when the police risked then- lives in capturing burglar* Ster?nd ,rrdCrerS- th.?" g0t no,hing for it (laughter). lhey were paid 2s. 6d. for houndii.tr down the poor man trying to eke out a living. Mr. Dudley Drummond said that he happened TtJr be chairman of a bench of magistrateii who ha(P dismissed some of those cases, and with the decision the bench arrived at was in entire accord. He thought they were proper decisions, in fact and ilt law. In several of the cases brought before them, where the farmers were charged with not taking rhLTTSt I1' tra.l?s in question, but several of them had taken out licences for traps somewhat similar in construction which thev used for other purposes, going to chapel on Sunday, and other amusements in addition. He thought it was perfect- ly unreasonab e to suggest that because a cart was on springs and had a back-rest it was taxable. Tho Act said that it should be constructed, adapted, and u-.ed for market purposes only. Ho was perfectly cominced that the majority of these traps in this nnfu "erB U l that PurP»se onlv. Thev noo ln0t ;rpeCt, t-hcm ,to.S° back 50 years when people used to bring their produce to market in h r /i C\rt- Bec?use they did not do it now were they to be taxed? He thought it was a great pity that on the various benches of that county there was a difference of opinion on ,1m havi • ,le rllou?ht it wo«ld be advisable to have_ a special committee to lay down instructions matiTr T tf> ,what th''y1 should do that matjter. home petty sessional divisions ordered convictions, others did not, and ho thought it ad- visable in the interest of the public there should be uniform procedure throughout the countv. Mr. Jones-Davies having characterised Mr T Lioyu s arguments as the flimsiest he had ever heard, the motion was carried by a large majority. Mr. Jones-Davies moved that the resolution lost by one with reference to the back-rest be passed. Mr. C. K Morris asked whether it was in their power to decide about back-rests or anything else The Clerk-In my opinion it is not. Mr. C. E. Morris—Then what was done at --bat meeting- was all folly. We have to administer the. law onjy. The whole thing is pure nonsense. Th-* Act is perfectly clear on the point, and there is an end. of it. Mr. Mervyn Peel asked if people to J 9 made miserably uncomfortable when io market, and were they to have their dr(--sse, coifci-cd with mud on the way. It was ridicubas. ] he question was a question of fact. Mr. John Lewis said that it seemed to him they could take anything to market without a iicei'ce now, even a motor-car, as long as they carried mar- ket produce in it.. The motion was carried. Mr. Parry moved the omission from the reporr of the paragraph giving the police 2s. 6d. ♦ r earh case. Mr. J. Phillips, in seconding, said that it was monstrous to think that they gave such encourage- ment to the police to trample down poor farmers. The question of farmers taking their servants and hay-workers for trips to the seaside in traps was considered, but nothing done. THE ASYLUM. Mr. C. E. Morris called the attention of the Council to the report of the Lunacy Commissioners with reference to the Asylum drainage and other- matters, which have already appeared in the Joi:«- NAL. The matter required the most serious atten- tion of the Committee of Visitors, and he hoped the Home Office would take the matter in hand and charge them with the expense unless the work was attended to at once. The work was simply kept, back through the perversity of a few people. If it was not attended to there would be an epidemic in Johnstown, near Carmarthen, and the neighbour- hood. The brook, which came down from the Asylum into Johnstown, was nothing better than an open sewer, and the stench there was something' fearful, and almost unbearable, and lapped the basis of one house. Mr. Jones-Davies said that the County Council had taken counsel's opinion on the matter, and they had better not discuss it further. Other counties wero taking proceedings, and Carmarthenshire had done everything it could. Mr. John Lloyd said that the matter was now sub judice, and the matter dropped. KIDWELLY BRIDGE. Mr. S. H. Anthony again moved his motion that 'the County 'Council should take, over KidVellv Bridge, on the Kidwelly Corporation undertaking to contribute E200 towards the cost of widening it. Mr. Anthony referred to the great danger it was to county traffic, and reiterate his arguments in favour of his motion. Mr. R. W. Stephens seconded. He marvelle(I li(IIV children had not been killed there with all the f,i-t motor traffic. Mr. D. C. Parry thought the question should lie deferred until the Chancellor of the Exchequer's contribution to the roads be made known. Mr. G. E. Bowen said that if they waited for that they would wait a long time. He was sur- prised at :\1r. Parry as he took a Jot of money from Kidwelly to Llanelly. He strongly supported tho moi ion. Mr. Joseph Williams said that it would cost £ 630 according to the Surveyor's estimafte. Perfiap-« when tttey examined it it would be like Paddy's gun require a new lock, stock, and barrel. After 11 long discussion, during which several amendments were disposed of, it was eventually decided to take the bridge over on the terms susi- gested. with the addendum that any cost above the Surveyor's estimate be equally divided between the County Council and Kidwelly Corporation. Thus ended a long fight over the dangerous Kid- welly Bridge. This was all the business of public interest.

BANK HOLIDAY EISTEDDFOD The Eisteddfod to be held in the Carmarthen Park on Monday next—August Bank Holi- day-judg-ing by the number of entries already received bids fair to prove a success as far as the competition is concerned. Twenty entries each have been received for the junior and senior pianoforto solos. The contralto solo has attracted 20. and tho soprano solo 16 entries; while for the bass and the tenor solos 30 and 21 names respectively hays beett received. Five choirs have entered for the juvenile choir competition, and 9 for the glee competition, while in the ladies' choir and the mole voice classes* there are five and three entries each. The chief choral competition for a prize of £ 40 has drawn five entries. The president will be the Mayor, and the, conductor, the Rev. Evan Davies, Gwaun-cae- Gtinvon: while Alr. W. G. McNauffht, Mus. Doc., will be the adjudicator, and Mr. Harold Mai kin, F.R.C.O.. the test adjudicator. Mr. T. S. Puddi- combe will accompany, and Miss Annie Morgan. A.R.C.M., will be tile test accompanist. It is hoped that there will be a good attendance.

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