The Carmarthen Journal and South Wales Weekly Advertiser

CARMARTHENSHIRE MAIN ROADS COUNCIL A meeting of the Main Roads and Bridges Com- mittee of the Carmarthenshire County Council was held at the County Offices on Wednesday, the 4th inst There were -resent: Lieut.-General Mr James Hills-Johnes, V.C., G.C.B., Dolaucothi; Mr. H. Jones-Thomas, Penros-uchaf; Mr. C. V. Prysc-Rice, Llwynybrain, Llandovery; Mr. G. E. Bowen, Burry Port; Mr. W. J. Thomas, Glantowy; Rev. Professor D E Jones, Carmarthen; Mr. Ben. Evans, Pen- cader; Mr. Simlett, Llaneily; Mr Dudley \\illiams- Drummond, Hafodnedd^n; Mr. J. Llewelyn Thomas, Hendy; the Rev. R. H. Jçnes, Llangendeirne; Mr. J. Llov-d Thomas, Tanlan; Mr. D. Evans, Manordaf; Mr T "nomas, Llangennech; Mr. T. Jones, Pen- ronw; ),H, Delme Davies-Evans, PenyJan; Mr. Dd. Davies, .udebie; Mr. H. E. B. Richards, Carmar- then; Cot. Morris, Ammanford; Mr. C. E. Morris, Llangunnor; Rev. A. Fuller Mills, Carmarthen; Mr. T < Jones, Llaneily; Mr. D. Williams, Llanybyther; Mr, J. W. Gwynne-Hughes, Tregeyb; Mr. L. N. Powell, Carregcennen; Mr. John Jones, Pontar- dulais; Mr. W. Griffiths, Llaneliy, and Mr. J. D. Morse, Laugharne; together with the clerk (Mr. J. W. Nicholas), and other officials. ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN.—EAST v WEST. Mr. D. Evans proposed that Mr. John Lloyd should be elected chairman 01 the Committee lor the ensu- mg year. Mr. D. Williams seconded. Air. T. Thomas proposed that Mr. Griffiths, the retiring chairman, be re-elected. Air. Simlett peconuea. Mr. W. Griffiths said that he was not desirous of being put in competition with anybody. He was quite willing to withdraw and to let Mr. Lloyd have it. Co!. Morris—Mr. Lloyd is chairman of the Small Holdings Committee. Are we going to give an the honours to two or three ? 1 am a common council man. When will my turn come? Mr. Mabon Davies—When we propose you. Col. Morris—Every dog has his day and these aldermen have had theirs. I support Mr. Griffiths. Mr. J. W. Gwynne-Hughes said that this was very hard on some of the members to make a choice. They were both men he liked. Mr. W. Griffiths said that he would not enter into competition with anybody. He would not take the chair except they were perfectly unanimous. Mr. D. Williams said that he did not say a word against Mr. Griffiths; but it was time they had a chairman from the western division. Mr. Simlett said that they ought not to set one division against another. The chairman for the Main Roads Committee was chairman for the whole county.. Mr. D. Evans said that he had moved the appoint- ment of Mr. Lloyd because Mr. Griffiths had held office for three years. He thought it was the custom that the one elected should go on for three years. He had thought that as Mr. Griffiths had been in for" a full term he would not like to go on any longer. Mr. W. Griffiths objected to the idea of the two divisions of the county each choosing a chairman in turns. That was an idea he was against all the time. Mr. :9. Evans said that he did not introduce the question of divisions. He nominated Mr. Loyd itS a. fit and proper person. Mr. W. N. Jones said that he felt as strongly on the question as anybody, but he did not think it would be fair to put Mr. Griffiths' name up now against Mr. Lloyd's. Mr. John Lloyd was then elected unanimously, in taking the chair, he said that he could assure them that it had not been sought at all by him. He would endeavour to do his best to perform the duties of chairman to their satisfaction, and to fol- low in the footsteps of his predecessor. He quite agreed with Col. Morris that every dog has his day. He did not believe that the chairmanship should be a monopoly for anybody. His predecessr had been chairman for three years, and he would be quite willing if they woul £ put him out at the end of the year, but he thought there ought to he an un- written law that whoever is chairman i chairman for three years. Their policy during the coming vear should be efficiency with economy. They had been under a great disadvantage during the past year because the winter had been a very bad one for the roads. He hoped that by the time he went out of office they would all say that the roads were much better than they were before. He concluded by proposing a vote of thanks to the retiring chair- man they could not have a better chairman; but as Col. Morris had suggested, they ought to have a change. Mr. W. X Jones seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously. The retiring Chairman, in acknowledging the vote, agreed that a chairman ought to be appointed for 3 vears. The first year he was appointed he knew nothing of the work; the second year he knew little, and the third vear he knew more (laughter). vr. Simlett asked if Tie would be in order in proposing that the appointment of chairman be for three years. The' Chairman said that that would not be in order. 5 FINANCE COMMITTEE. The following were elected on the Finance Com- mittee :—Mr. W. J. Thomas, Mr. W. Davies, Mr. W. Griffiths, Mr. D. Harry, Professor Jones. Mr. T. Jones, Mr. J. Lloyd, Mr. D. Evans, Mr. J. W. Gwynne-Hughes, Mr. John Rees, Mr. J. Roberts, Mr. J. Simlett, Dr. Thomas, and Mr. W. J", Wil- liams. PROPOSAL TO ABOLISH A BRIDGE. A letter was read from Messrs. Seaton, Taylor, and Co., a London firm of solicitors acting on be- half of the Burry Port and Gwendraeth Railway Co. They stated that there was no obligation on the Rauway Company to enlarge or extend the Spud- der's Bridge in order to meet the increased traffic. They suggested that it would be better, providing the statutory powers were obtained, to have the bridge removed at the joint expense of the Company and the Council, and a level crossing substituted for it. The bridge had been originaliT built over a canal, but since the canal had been replaced by a railway the bridge was of very little practical use. Mr. B. Evans—What about the dip? The Surveyor—There would be a slight dip? NO WAYLEAVE. A letter was read from Conwil stating that out of the roceds of the recent e-steddfod they proposed to erect four lamp-posts in the village. They asked the permission of the County Council to erect two .j. on the main road; they intended to write to the Rural District Council with regard to two which they proposed to erect on the district road. Mr. T. Jones (Penronw)—I propose that we allow them. The Clerk—Any way leave? Mr. T. Jones—They will not be in the way at all. The Clerk—Are they to pay any rent? Mr. T. Jones—Leave them free. Dr. Price, of Carmarthen, wrote a letter com- plaining that a length of stones was spread some time before it was rolled. He said that as a result the tyres of his motor-car had the other day sus- tained damage to the extent of JB8. Sir James Hills-Johnes said that ho could back that up. The Chairman said that they could can the atten- tion of the Surveyor to it. VOTE OF CONGRATULATION. Mr. David Evans moved that they pass "a vote of congratulation to Mr. H. Jones-Davies on his ap- pointment as one of the Commissioners under the Development Bill. Prof. Jones seconded the motion, which was car- ried unanimously. STATE OF THE ROADS. Mr. Delme Davies-Evans raised the question of opening silica quarries. A length which had been covered with limestone two or three months ago was now as bad as ever. The surveyor (Mr. Lionel Jenkins) said that they opened quarries as close as possible to the roads which required repairing. Mr. Deime Davies-Evans said that the road from Carmarthen to Llandebie had been cut to pieces by the motor 'bus. Did the Surveyor propose to use limestone or silica to repair it? The Chairman—Or slag? The Surveyor said that he had a limestone quarry opened on the road. On the Cross Hands side of the Stag and Pheasant there was a silica quarry, but they had not yet come to terms about the royalty. Mr. Delme Davies-Evans said that this ought to be looked into. There was no use putting bad stuff on the roads. Col. Morris—This question has been thrashed out before. The Chairman—We can do nothing now; we have arranged our contracts. Mr. Delme Davies-Evans—We can look ahead a bit. It was decided to have a report from the Surveyor on the subject. CARMARTHEN ELECTRIC LIGHT. The Surveyor reported that wooden poles for the Carmarthen Electric Light were being placed on the road at Johnstown. They ought to have iron poles there as in town. The wooden poles reduced the width of the pavement to three feet in places. He suggested the appointment of a committee to deal with this. Prof. Jones said that there was no need of a com- mittee. The Surveyor could deal. with it. The Clerk said that there was the question as to the royalties for the poles. They had a right to that, although the roads were within the borough. RHANDIRMWYN BRIDGE. The Rhandirmwvn Bridge Committee reported that they had visited the spot in question. The Rural District Council had no plans or estimate ready. They recommended that the Rural District Council should take the initiative and apply for a grant when the plans were ready. This report was adopted. KIDWELLY BRIDGE. It was decided to apply for* a loan of J6482 which would be required in addition to the £200 given by the Corporation, to widen Kidwelly Bridge. A DANGEROUS PLACE. The Rev. R. H. Jones said that there was a very dangerous place at the bridge over the Berem. A man charged with nothing stronger than soda water had been known to go into the water instead of over the bridge. This was all the business of interest.

FERRYSIDE SENSATION CHILD S BODY FOUND IN RIVER. Ureal excitement was caused in Ferryside on Friday aiternoou last, when it became known that L-avia Davies, I'owy View, and uand Evans, two seme net lisiiermen, while hauling their net near the Biacli Barrel Post, about that afternoon, had lound entangled in its meshes the body of a xeuiaie infant. Tne body, which was naked, bore no rnarics of violence, was in an advanced stage of decomposition, and presented a ghastly appearance. it was hauled ashore, and conveyed to the Ferry waiting-room. P.C. Richards was immediately sent tor, and took charge ot the corpse. No clue has been discovered as to tne means by which the body got into the river. THE INQUEST. The coroner (Mr. J. W. Nicholas) held an inquest on tne body at the Schoolroom on the following aiternoon. Mr. H. Mitchell, schoolmaster, was icreman of the jury. David Davies, tisnerman, Towy View, deposed that he with David Evaiii was fishing with a seme net by the Black Barrel Tost, opposite Llanstephan Castle, about 2.60 on the previous afternoon. After iishmg tor about a quarter of an hour they drew in their net and found in it the body of the female child which the jury had just viewed. He and his mate carried the corpse up to the bank and there examined it. They found that the body, which was naked, was cut across the throat, while there was a hole in the right shoulder. The body appeared to have been in the water for some time. They covered it with an oilskin and carried it to the Ferry waiting-room, and when P.C. Richards came on the scene he took charge of it. At that time the tide was going out, and they were drawing their net with the tide. They had a lead line swinging from the net, and perhaps the body in coming down with the tide had got caught by it. He had no idea from what direction the body had come, it was difficult to say. Fish very often went against the tide, but they were more likely to take those coming down the tide. The body might have been brought up from the channel by one tide and Re- mained in that spot. He thought it more likely that the body had come from up the river because the fresh would have carried it down. It was very doubtful whether the body had been washed round from the River Laugharne "for instance. Dr. David Williams, Ferryside, who examined the | body about 12.30 that day, said that it was well nourished, and was very decomposed, especially in some parts. The skin of the neck had burst open, and in some parts had disappeared, owing to decom- position, probably assisted by the peeking of birds, which had pecked out the left eye. There was also an opening in the right arm-pit, where the skin had gone. No bones were broken, and as far as he could see there were no marks of violence. He thought that the body, from the advanced state of decom- position, had been in the water for a fortnight or three weeks. Death was probably due to drowning, but it was impossible to say with certainty, even by holding a post-mortem examination, owing to the water having penetrated to the lungs through the hole in the throat. The appearance of the body was quite consistent with death by drowning. He did not regard the cut in the throat as being anything. It was most probably post-mortem. He thought the child had lived for about four months. There were no signs of death being due to anything but drown- ing, and in view of the hole rn. the throat and the state of the body it would be difficult to ascertain whether the child was alive when it got into the water or not. In answer to a juror, Dr. Williams said that by holding a post-mortem examination he would be able to find any trace of poison. The Coroner said that the only question for them to decide was whether a post-mortem examination should be held in order to throw away no chance of getting all the information, and he would give directions to that effect. They would be able to have all the information that medical science could give them to enable them to come to a decision as to tho cause of death. The inquest was accordingly ad- journed until Tuesday morning in order that a post- mortem examination could be held. The body, after being examined by Dr. Williams on Sunday, was buried in the afternoon at Salem Baptist Chanel graveyard, Ferryside, the Rev. B. R. Thomas (nastor) officiating. At the adjourned inquest on (Tuesday morning. Dr. Williams gave the result of the post-mortem exam- ination which he conducted on Sunday. He had opened the pleural cavities and found them full of water, as was also the stomach. The stomach and intestines were in an advanced stage of decomposi- tion, and th stomach showed no signs of any irri- tant poison. The jury returned a verdict of "Found drowned."

"» NOTICE TO CORRESPONDENTS —The Editor is always pleased to receive items of news irom :1:1 quarters, but he wishes it known that he cannot publish any sent in by persons not known at the Joi.n.VAL Office, or which is not forwarded through one of the authorised correspondents of the JOTTRXAL WORKMEN-ARTISTS.—A seascape entitled "Sil- very Moon," by Mr. S. Hancock, the pQstman-astist, has been hung on the line in this year's Academy. This example of the artistic qualities of some of our workmen lends interest to the articles in the current "Strand Magazine" on "The Art of the British Working-Man," in which there are reproductions of commendable efforts hy mill-workers, caretakers, coal-men. etc.

BIRTHS. EYANS.—April 30th. at 2, St. Catherine-street, Carmarthen, the wife of Mr. Ben. Evans, Buffalo, U.S.A., of a daughter. JONES.—April 24th, at Blaendewi Fach, Trelech, the wife 2dr. Jones, of a daughter. _A.

LLANDILO URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL The monthly meeting of this Council was held on Tuesday evening. Those present were: Mr. W. Gri- ffiths (chairman), Mr. W. Hopkin (vice-chairman;, and Messrs. D. Pritchard Davies, E. A. Roberts, W. D. Jenkins, Evan Jones, W. Jones, Claude R. Davies, D. Morgan, J. Stephens, J. R. Williams, and Dr. R. Jones; officials, Mr. R. S. Lewis, clerk; Mr. G. Roderick, surveyor. PURCHASE OF THE MARKET. The Chairman drew attention to the fact that they had been offered the choice of purchasing the Llandilo Market, but as it was not on the agenda, and had been indefinitely deferred, the Council de- cided they could not deal with it. MARKET SALES AGREEMENT. The agreement between the Council and .Messrs. William and Walter James, auctioneers, fbr sales by auction in the mart, was under consideration. The letting was to be for fourteen years. The sale was to be for cattle, sheep and pigs only. At least twelve marts were to be held every year. For the first year the mart was to be rent free, but after- wards theiya was to be a percentage on sales, in- creasing as the years went by, when those sales were over a certain amount. The agreement could be broken by a six months' notice. No rights to assign were to be allowed. A full and correct ac- count was to be rendered each year, ending June, by the auctioneers. These were the principal items in the agreement. With regard to the expenses, the auctioneers were to be allowed, there was some dis- cussion, and on the suggestion of Mr. D. Morgan, it was agreed to ask the auctioneers before the agree- ment was signed, for a detailed account of their expenses, as they could easily do it having now held the mart for some time. Mr. W. D. Jenkins urged having "details," and this Mr. E. A. Roberts sup- ported. As to the time to be allowed for the sales it was left to the option of tho auctioneers, and then the Council would again discuss it. Mr. Claude R. Davies pointed out that the agree- ment would cease on the death of either of the auc- tioneers, but Mr. Roberts thought if. had better be left. A Member—It cuts both ways. Mr. Davies gaid he made no suggestion, but simply brought it before the Council. Mr. J. Stephens, who supported Mr. Davies, said he also would not press the matter. Subject to these alterations the agreement was approved of. "TOWN EYESORES." Tenders for channelling and concreting, etc., King- street, were in hand, but before they were opened Mr. D. Morgan objected. It was an extravagance. There were eyesores in town that should be attended to. He moved thaCthe work be not done. Mr. W. D. Jenkins seconded. The pavement he de- scribed as neat and tidy. It was the approach of the town that wanted attending to. Let them pave where it was really necessary. He seconded that they should not deal with the tenders.—The motion was carried unanimously. ELECTRIC LIGHT. A report from the Electric Light Committee was under consideration. The committee recommended that on clear summer evenings it should be left to the engineer's discretion as to turning on the light. Mr. J. R. Williams thought it was delegating too much power to the engineer. He would have it ap- proved by two members of the Council. That would be little trouble. Mr. W. D. Jenkins objected to that, as the difficulty would be to get two members to undertake the re- sponsibility. Mr. D. Pritchard Davies thought it was better to leave the matter as it stood. It might be light at 8 and dark at 9.30. Mr. J. Stephens moved, Mr. Hopkin seconded, and Mr. Roberts supported the motion of the com- mittee, which was adopted. TENDERS. Tenders for painting the Electric Light Statioa wre considered. Mr. J. Davies, Carnarvon House, asked for L8 17s. 6d.; Mr. J. W. C. Nelson, £4 15s., and Mr. Ben Morris, £3 18s. Mr. J. Stephens pointed out that only the tender of Mr. Nelson had been before the committee. The Clerk said that, no committee had any power to deal with tenders. They were bound t. con.e before the whole Council. The tender of Mr. Mor- ris was accepted. The Surveyor asked for instructions to tap the mains in a certain part, but Mr. Roberts said there was no need of it. The fault. was the waste w.ier from the taps. However he would support the re- quest, which was agreed to. STREET TARRING QUESTION. Mr. Roberts suggested that the Surveyor should make enquiries as to the cost. of tarring the streets and make a report. Mr. Claude R. Davies sup- ported the motion. Dr. Jones said horses fell on it. The Surveyor said it would not do where the gradient was steep. Mr. W. Jones said the whole of the Neath roads had been done. He had often wished to have it done. Mr. W. Jones said they could have the material ready at Cilruchau Lime Works. MISCELLANEOUS. It was agreed to take proceedings against Mr. W. P. Morgan, formerly of Glasfryn, for recovery I of rent due for water. Mr. Claude R. Davies urged that a notice should now be put up at Penlan Park stating when it was closed. Mr. J. Stephens pointed out that it was now time the seats were put out in the Park. He asked what was to be done with the band-stand. Mr. Evan Jones suggested they should open it by holding a band contest. Mr. Claude R. Davies asked if they could give prizes. The Clerk said they could not, but on certain days they could charge for admission. Mr. Claude R. Davies asked that arrangements should be made with the different bands, as for this summer again the band-stand would not be used. Mr. E. A. Roberts moved that the musicians of the Council—Messrs. Hopkin, Claude R. Davies, and D. Morgan, see the bands with regard to the matter. Mr. Morgan said that Tycroes band would come free of charge to open the stand if the Llandilo bands refused. Mr. Claude R. Davies asked if as a committee they were given power to see that the -bands' ser- vices were acknowledged. Mr. E. A. Roberts regretted the lack of support the bands were receiving. The matter was left in the hands of the com- mittee. A NEW BRIDGE. A letter was read from Mr. A. S. Williams, secre- tary of the Golf Club, stating that Mr. Protheroe- Beynon had given consent for the erection of a footbridge over the Towy near the railway station. The club asked for the support of the Council in the matter. Mr. W. Jones movetT that they as a Council thank Mr. Beynon for his generosity in acceding to the request to have the bridge replaced. \Mr. D. Morgan moved that they should inform Mr. A. S. Williams that they were in sympathy with the movement and would give it their support. NUMBER OF VACANT HOUSES. The Clerk read out a-iist of arrears of rates, and the fact that no less than 20 houses in the town were vacant caused some surprise. The Clerk said he had prepared an estimate for the current half-year, which amounted to £1,22Ô. An eighteen penny rate would again suffice. STREET IMPROVEMENTS. Mr. J. Stephens asked what street in the town was next to be if they were not at present going to repair King-street. The answer was New-road. Mr. W. D. Jenkins objected to asking for estimates if they did not mean to carry out the work. It was giving unnecessary work to the surveyor and to builders, etc. Mr. W. Hopkin said there was JS120 allowed in the estimates for repair of the road, etc. Mr. J. R. Williams wanted less spent and spent more regularly. Let them do a part of New-road. The Chairman objected to doing only a part. It was an important road. The ClerK said they could afford to do it. Mr. W. Hopkin wanted to have the pavement in front of Dirleton-terrace cemented. It was at the entrance of the town and left a bad impression. Mr. J. Stephens—On people's boots (laughter). Members objected as the question was New-road- The Park had to be attendecT to. The Clerk pointed out they had money in hand for .the Park. Mr. J. R. Williams again declared they should limit their expenditure on the roads. The Chairman replied that they could do it for this half-year. Mr. J Stephens moved that an estimate of the cost of putting New Road in order be supplied. Mr. Roberts seconded. Mr. Claude R. Davies asked whether they were going to do it or not? Mr. D. Ivlorgan urged that they should do it. THE FIRE BRIGADE. The question of the Fire Brigade was brought on by Mr. J. R. Williams. He asked for a report. Mr. D. Morgan said that things were in a state of chronic debility (laughter). Mr. J. R. Williams, however, thought it was a serious matter. The matter was left for the Water Committee to take action. Mr. Claude R. Davies held that the apparatus that the brigade had was prehistoric and useless. Then the pressure of the water would have to be increased. Mr. J. R. Williams could not see where the levity came in. OVERCROWDING IN HOUSES. The Survevor's report was next considered. He reported a case of overcrowding in Quav-street, where there was only one living room, one bed- room for the woman and five children and a man lodger. It was agreed to serve the usual notice. Mr. W. Jones said then. were other cases of the kind in the town. :I.3-

STUEY- I ifi "<<L!t:>> ¡ "< Make your cycling i • i doubly enjoyable. r its any bicycle. FIT THE STURNIEY-ARCHER ';r 3 ''I not old-{a.hioned Henee its silky movement. Send Makes cycling easy." sturmey-Archcr Gc*rSf Ltd., J J NOTTINGHAM. Agents Everywhere. > k DVIxl Bill SKEH^I J1P' 19 A E JilC olib 111

COAL MINERS AND TARIFF REFORM HOW IT WILL BENEFIT THEM. To the Editor of THE JOURNAL. Sir,—A belief widely prevails amongst the coal miners of this country, and especially of East Car- marthenshire, that Tariff Reform cannot possibly benefit their industry. They say that whatever bene- fit the textile, engineering, and other trades might derive from a policy which would safeguard the home market, the coal trade, being unaffected by foreign competition, could have no advantage to gain. This, it appears to us, is a short-sighted and entirely erroneous view of the situation. AN INDEX OF PROSPERITY. It will be admitted that coal is an essential raw material of all our great industries. Our national prosperity is based upon our abundance of coal, and if our supply were to fail our supremacy as a commercial nation would be gone. Our consump- tion of coal is an index to the condition of our industries, and an increased demand for coal shows increased industrial productivity. The prosperity of the coal trade, therefore, must largely depend upon the prosperity of all other trades. The miner cannot dissociate himself from his fellow-workers in other industries. His' wages fall when the trade of the country is depressed, and rise when the demand for coal increases in consequence of revived trade. Whatever, therefore, increases the general industrial prosprity of the country, benefits the coal miner no less than the textile operative, the engineer, the potter, the tin-plater, the paper-ihaker, and the glass-worker. OUR EXPORT TRADE. 1 It may be objected, however, that Tariff Reform, by putting a duty on imports of foreign goods, 0 would seriously affect our exports of coal. These exports, amounting as they do to some sixty-six million tons annually, represent a considerable pro- portion of our total production. If, it is argued, a new fiscal policy were to cause a substantial falling off in our coal exports, it would be a serious matter for the British miner. This fear is an entirely base- less one. The countries which at present purchase our coal do not do so from any love of us, but because they cannot yet produce enough coal of their own for the requirements of their industries. It is well,however, to realise that the present demand is abnormal, and that other countries are rapidly developing their coal-fields. We must be prepared to face, in the near future, a falling-off in our ex- ports of coal, quite irrespective of either "Free Trade" or Tariff Reform, and due solely to increased output of coal in countries which at present are our largest, customers. Tariff Reform will also develop our Colonies, and thus find new and lasting markets for our coal. HOME CONSUMPTION. Seeing, then, that we must lopk forward to an inevitable decrease in our coal exports, it is surely our duty to adopt such a fiscal system as will in- crease home consumption. A policy which would en- courage our own industries by keeping the home market for the home worker must obviously lead to the demand for more coal. It can be little satis- faction to the coal miners of This country to know that they are working largely in order to maintain factories in other lands, and to enable foreign manu- facturers to dump their surplus productions on our shores. They see around them British mills either working on short time or stopped altogether, while many millions of tons of coal are being sent abroad to keep their competitors busy. Would it not be better for them if these British mills were busy also? Nothing can be worse for the coal miner than de- pressed trade in this country. To take the iron and steel trade alone, at least three and a half tons of coal are consumed in the production of one ton of steel, and two tons in the making of one ton of pig-iron. The more steel and pig-iron, therefore, that is turned out in the United Kingdom, the better will be the employment and wages of our own miners. When we consider we have fallen behind protectionist countries in the manufacture of iron and steel, hold- ing now a poor third position instead of an easy first, it will readily be seen how great has been our loss. THE MINER MUST BENEFIT. It will be seen, then, that no one stands to gain mqre from Tariff Reform than the British coal miner. It caAnot decrease our export trade, al- though the development of coal-mining in other countries must "have that effect in the near future, while our revived home trade will produce a greatly increased demand for the needs of our home manu- factures. With our steel works, cotton mills, and woollten factories working lull time, our miners would be kept busy in supplying their wants, and no class of men know better than they do that in- creased output means better wages and a higher standard of living. It is for coal miners, therefore, to come into line with their fellow-workers in the other great industries of the country, and to join in the demand that the British workman shall occupy as favoured a position in his home market as the United States, German, and Colonial workmen do in their.—Yours, etc., A. MINER.

EMPIRE DAY. To the Editor of THE JOCK.XAI.. ,Sir,-Tlie time has again arrived when it becomes my duty to remind your readers of the near ap- proach of "Empire Day," May 24th. Last year this national festival was observed throughout the Empire in some 55,COO schools, with an attendance of about 7,500,000 scholars, whilst over 7,000 sermons, on the higher aims of the move-1 ment, were delivered on "Empire Sunday," May 23rd. Allowing for the number of those present pt the various celebrations, and of those attending the services where Empire sermons were preached, it may fairly be assumed that, some sixteen millions of British subjects came under the influence of the movement in 1909. It is confidently believed that, the figures given above will be largely increased tills year. As is already well known, the "Empire Move- ment" is a non-party, non-sectarian, non-aggressive effort to awaken the peoples who constitute the British Empire to the serious duties that lie at their door. Many excellent subjects of the King fail to realise the magnitude and consequent seriousness of the responsibilities attaching' to British citizenship. The wateliward4 of the movement are "'Responsi- bility, Duty, Sympathy, Self-sacrifice." Many of these words are engraven on the hearts ot all British subjects, but especially of the young, who in a few years time will be responsible for the government- of this mighty Empire, consisting of over 400 millions of souls. The good ship Empire needs that her crew should possess clear and strong brains, trained and loyal hands, and pure and fearless hearts, to enable them to navigate her in safety through the lowering tempests which already darken her horizon, and the stormy seas which inevitably await her in the future. Who will help to # train the rising generation in the duties of imperial i'esponsibili(es Volunteer workers of independent means who a.re willing to labour without remuneration and at their own ex- pense in the promotion of the "Empire Movement" are invited to send their names and addresses to the Office, at 83, Lancaster Gate, London, W., and they will receive printed instructions in regard to the nature of the assistance which is required at their hands. There are many schools in poor districts through- out the Empire which are not provided with flag- 4 staffs and Union Jacks. How can the boys and girls in these schools salute a non-existent national flag? I hope that all who believe in the healthy, national influence of the movement, will endeavour to assist some poor children to obtain a flag- and flag- staff, and will, if possible,, supplement these gifts by a large wall map of the Empire, such as the '"Navy League,]' or "'Howard Vincent" maps, and by a pprtrait of His Majesty the King. Copies of the "Empire Catechism." which should be learnt by heart by all British children, and of the soul- stirring songs to be sung on "Empire Day." and all information connected with the movement, can be obtained from the Secretary, 83, Lancaster Gate. London. I am, etc., MEATH (EARL OF) 83. Lancaster Gate. London, May 2nd.

"THE LOST FOUND." To the Editor of THE JOURNAL. Sir,—A few weeks ago you kindly inserted a letter for me, respecting the whereabouts of a youug man named Peach, supposed to be working in the neigh- bouhood of Carmarthen, and whose aged father sought information concerning him. I am no, writing to say that a lady of the Church of England, who read the letter in your columns, was able to give information upon the subject, and that as a result the long-separated father and son have been brought into communication. Thanking both the JOURNAL and the kind Church of England friends who have taken so much trouble in keeping these poor people.—I am, etc., ANNIE E. HARDING. Finsbury Park Mission to Poor Children, London, May 2nd, 1910. Finsbury Park Mission to Poor Children, London, May 2nd, 1910. -0:

A NEW ECZEMA REMEDY PROFESSIONAL NURSE'S PRAISE. HOW SHE CURED HERSELF, A Nurse Beatrice Goodwi11; 46, Fieiding Road, Bedfor" Park, W., says:—I was for considerable time ureaw pained and incommoded in business, especially when I to massage a patient, 6y &t* outbreak of weeping eczema the inside of my right arm- applied all the well-known rtr medies, soothing ointment* etc., and adopted the treatme0* professionally recognised 8 best for eczema. Nevertheless the inside of mv right arm- applied all the well-known rtr medies, soothing ointment* etc., and adopted the treatme0* professionally recognised 8 best for eczema. Nevertheless the eczema snread. and simp^ out ot a sense of duty not to neglect any poss means of curing myself, I tried Cadum. the resul* was a wonderfully quick and thorough cure. CadutJI clearing the eczema away completefy in a week. 1 fact, Cadum proved so vastly superior a remedy f° £ eczema, I felt compelled to make mv experience j it known to the public." Cadum is'a new medica' discovery for the cure of all skin troubles, includi^ eczema, psoriasis, ringworm, scaly akin, itch, ras blackheads, pimples, sores, eruptions, etc. It stop^ the itching at once and begins healing with the application. Price 7 £ d., 1/1 £ and 2/9 per box of Chemists, or from Omega, Ltd., London, N.

LLAQDEFEILOG EISTEDDFOD.—On Wednesday of last week, ui"<-j1' the auspices -of the Llandefeilog Agii^i' tural Society, a most successful eistedclt0^ was held ai tiic Llandefeilog National Schools-- j was held ai the Llandefeilog National Schools-- j very large crowd assembled, which at times pr°v^4, very noisy owing to the room being somewhat too small for the purpose. The committee had b. very fortunate in securing the services of Mr. Yl- Cecil Williams, Mus. Bac., the talented ant! \V. It known organist and choirmaster of Ten by I at. Church, as a musical adjudicator. Comer Henry was also, as usual, a most taking1 adjudicator of the recitations. As the accompanist, Miss Gladys Rees, of Nantilan, t distinguished herself land did exceedinglv well v one so young. In the unavoidable absence of Alfred Stephens, U.C., Kidwelly—who, howeV*^ sent a substantial cheque. —jir. T.'jones, BryngvV*' ws, was president. Mr. John Bowen, Lan Ho'lSj and Mr. J. O. uoues, Black Lion, Cwmffrwd. most energetic hon. sees., and Mr. Morris DAA'LTJJ Llwynheiig, as excellent treasurer. The awards ,as- follows:—Children's solo: 1, Master Wi'lie harne, Pwll, Llaneliy; 2, Miss M. Jones, Llandefeilog. Rccitation for children; Miss u Jones, Llandefeilog. Open recitation: Mr. JosC-S.g Thomas, Pontyberem. Duet for children: Misses Jones, Shop, and Jones, School Hou*e, V? defetlog. Soprano solo: Miss H. A. Jones, C rnarthen. Tenor solo: Mr. Morris CarniavtJ^ Bass solo: Divided between Mr. J. Howelle, and Mr. D. Jeremp Rees, Carmarthen. Messrs. Jeremy Rees and W. Morris, CarmartB6^ Op«en solo: Mr. D. R. Williams, Pembrev. Party » eight: Towy Minstrels (Mr. Ben Jones, conduct^y Male Voice Party: Two parties comneted. viz.. T0L), Glee Society, Carmarthen (under Mr. \Y accompanied by Mr. Stanley Isaac, Carmart'? a>. and Kidwelly United Partv (under Mr. D S. Dav'% The adjudicator, whilst awarding the prize to!tr first-named, very highly complimented the Kid^c ites on their finished singing. Answers to questions given at the time: 1, Mr. Herbert JoV 0( who, as usual, showed his unusual knowledge things generally; 2, Mr. G. Jortei;, LlandctVilcS- \,)ý' PARISH CC.U.NCIL.-The first meeting of the ne\ tP" constituted Council (after postponement owing gt death of a near relative of the Cierk) wtis- he.1 t of the National School on the 20th ult. De^larat10" acceptance of office was signed by the follo^i^ Messrs. E. Bowen, Gellideg; W. H. Bowen. p- D. Davies, Eithinmaen; D. Griffiths, Llechdjv' Jeremy, Gelliddu: J. Jones, Coedbach; J. D- •><*> School House; W. Jones, Bwlchygwynt; Ree* J, Penrhnv; W. Rees. Plasgwvn Wm. Thomas, cr'\>s, tryn, and W. Williams, Cilmarch. Mr. M- J%li" Glanmorlais Harm, was the only absentee. .tii#1' Jones, Coedbach, was unanimouslv elected clw,J and Mr. Bowen, Gellideg, vice-chairman. ,)it lowing were appointed overseers for the e Reí's, year .Messrs. Thos. Jones, Birbwll; Gwilyi'' C wmafael: J..Tones, Coedbach, and J- tl'f Nantygoitre. The trustees elected to rcpi'01' are' C ouncil at the distribution of Mansel's Charit.yr»' Messrs. J. Jones, Coedbach, and W. Thomas- yne tryn. YIr., E. Bowen, Gellideg, was appoi11!1 representative on the management of the N School, and Mr. Williams, Cilmarch, was re-aP'5P ted to act similarly for Idole Council School- D Griffiths, D. Jeremv, and the Clerk ttfr- fa' Abereover), were appointed delegates at marthen Ratepayers' Association meetings- resolved to apply, on the invitation of the Council, for a course of horticultural lecture', bv Mr. W. J. Pickard, U.C.W. After on matters apnertaining to the Parish Ground at Idolo. the Llandefeilog telegraph V.^t^ and future meeting places, the meeting ter —— ~Ztee*> Printed by "Tho Journal" Co. Ltd., King 5 Carmarthen. ML I Carmarthen. ML

HOSPITAL EGG WEEK. To the Editor of THE JOURNAL Sir,—About this time last year, through 1"0 medium of your widely-read JOURNAL—ever open i» the cause of charity—we appealed to those ot your readers who kept fowls to send us any number of New Laid Eggs for the Hospitals. We succeeded, with your friendly help, in obtaining nearly 20,000 Eggs, all of which wore immediately distributed amongst the various deserving Metropolitan HospI- tals. In the month of May Eggs are- most DWtifuh and consequently keepers o flaving fowls will be wl able to spare at least one dozen New Laids frorv their surplus. These should be sent to me bPtwceU the dates of May 18th and May 26th carefully packed and carriage paid. All boxes used will be returned on request. Special labeis for despatching Eggs will be sent on application. Last year many letters frolØ the benefitting Hospitals were received, saying hoW greatly these gifts were appreciated by the patientf The co-operation of the Hospital Saturday Fund ha* again been securea in the allocation of the gifts, and it is earnestly hoped that all vour readers who can send Eggs will do so. They are sorelv needed- All packages containing Eggs will be sent direct to the Hospitals without being opened, so it is necessary that any covering letter should be dispatched sepa* ratelv. It is also advisable to state the number of Eggs contained in each package on the outside of such consignment. Every gift of Eggs will bØ acknowledged by-Your bbedient servant, [ THE EDITOR, "The Poultry World." r 154, Fleet-street, London, E.C.