The Carmarthen Journal and South Wales Weekly Advertiser

CARDIGANSHIRE MIDSUMMER ASSIZES. COMMISSIONER BOMPAS ON THE COL- LECTION OF TITHES. The Summer Assizes of the county of Cardigan were opened before Mr Commissioner Bompas on Tuesday morning at the Town Hall, Lampeter. The learned Commissioner arrived at Lampeter trom Haverfordwest on Monday evening, ana stayed at Falcondale, the residence of Mr J. C. Harford. He attended divine service at the parish Church, and on his appearance at the Town Hall, was accompanied by Mr Wilmot Inglis Jones, Derry Ormond, high sheriff, and his chaplain, Rev. D. Jenkins, Bettws and the under sheriff, Mr D. Lloyd, solicitor, Lampeter. The following gentlemen were sworn as a grand jury :-The Lord Lieutenant of Cardiganshire (foreman) the Earl of Lisburne; Mr William Jones, Glandennis Colonel John Lewes, Llanllear; Mr T. H. Brenchley, Glaneirw Mr Morris Davies, Ffosrhydgaled Mr C. H. L. Fitzwilliams, Cil- gwyn Mr Nicholas Bray, Goginan Mr David Davies, Velindre Mr Lewis Davies, Gelly; Mr John Fowden, Lampeter; Mr C. E. Longcroft, Llanina; Mr Charles Lloyd, Waunifor; Mr D. Jones-Lloyd Mr G. W. Parry, Llidiardiau and Mr H. E. Bonsall, Fronfraith. THE CHARGE TO THE GRAND JURY. The Judge, charging the grand jury, said I have first the pleasant duty of congratulating you upon the staie of your county-upon the fact that, at any rate, the serious crimes which would come before a judge of assize seem to be wanting. At the same time, I am told that there have been dis- turbances in yo ir county, particularly in collection of the tithes, and that some of you were desirous that I should take the opportunity this morning of making a few observations upon the law with regard to such assemblies and such proceedings. Now, gentlemen, the law is very clear. It has been defined very frequently what an unlawful assembly is, and it has been defined in this way If three or more persons shall assemble, or being together shall combine together for a common pur- pose of executing some unlawful and violent act, or shall assemble, and being together shall combine together, for any purpose whatever, and under such circumstances of violence, threats, tumults, num- bers, display of arius, or otherwise as are calcu- lated to create terror and alarm in the Queen's sub- jects, such persons shall be deemed to be guilty of an unlawful assembly. So you see there are two kinds of unlawful assembly—where people meet together for an unlawful purpose, that in itself makes the assembly unlawful and criminal. Even if they assemble for a lawful purpose-if they do it in such a way as to terrify the Queen's subjects, then that is unlawful, because it is insisted in this peaceful, happy, aud prosperous country that every- body shodd go about their business without fear or terror. Now, gentlemen, the first question is, have these assemblies been held for a lawful purpose? And for the future, I take it, the difficulty which I think has arisen will be done away by the Act that has recently been passed-the collection of tithes will be made tliDugh the courts of law, through the county court, and through the county- court bailiff and there can be no question that if anyone in any way interferes in the administration of justice, or endeavours to hinder the carrying out the orders of a courr, whether it be a superior or a county court, he will be doiag an illegal and criminal act and if the county court bailiff is ordered by his court to enforce any proceedings, any three persons who meet together for th purpose of hindering him will undoubtedly be guilty of an unlawful assem- bly. But with regard to the past Act, and with regard, I suppose, to the collection of any arrears that still exist, the tithes have been collected by the bailiff appointed by the owner of the tithe-it is like a distress for rent, where the bailiff distrains on the part of the landlord; and though I am not aware that there is any actual decision of the courts upon the subject, I do not think that such distress in a legal proceeding—a proceeding of the courts of law in the sense which would make any interference with it necessarily criminal. To interfere with it may be against the civil law. The landlord or the tithe-owner has always had the legal right to obtain his land or tithe in that way, and anyone who iuterferes with that legal right would be liable to civil proceedings. But civil proceedings are usually employed to enable him to maintain his private rights. We do not take crimi- nal proceedings unless there is something which is done against the peace of the country as a rule, or done in such a way as to bring terror and discom- fort to the subjects of the Queen; or, as I have said, to interfere in any way with the courts of justice when the proceeding of a court of law is in itself an injury to the public peace and the public welfare, and is criminal and not merely a civil wrong. To interfere with the private right, whether it be of a bailiff or any other private citizen—unless done in some form which implies terror or outrage —would, I think, be only a civil wrong, for which civil action is liable. But, as I have said, an assembly of persons may be unlawful and Criminal, not only because the object is criminal, but because it is done in such a way, in 3uch numbers, or in such display either of arms or of noise and tumult as shall bring fear and terror to an ordinary person of ordinary nerves. That is a matter which the magistrates or the police must judge of in case of each particular assembly. But I thought I might call your attention to just two cases—two of the leading cases, I think, upon this subject, which will shjw you how great judges in times past have distinguished between the two. The first case I should like to cali your attention to is Clifford versus Brandon, which is reported in the second volume of Campbell's Reports. They are old reports, but they are of great value. This report is to be found on page 367. At the beginning 6f this century, when the proprietors of the Covent Garden Theatre had raised their prices, the people in London, who appear to have been fond of theatre-going in those days, were very iudigaant and made so much noise and disturbance that ordinary persons could not go to the theatre in peace, and thereupon a gentleman (a barrister) who was in the theatre, and who had in his hat a card demonstrating that he belonged to the disturbing par:y, was arrested with those who had made the disturbance, and prosecuted, and the case came before Sir James (afterwards Lord) Mansfield. The judge gave his decision on the case. He held that the case was proved, and that there was a riot, He said The first great question for the consideration of the jury will be, whether the plaintiff was instigating a riot in Covent Garden Theatre on the evening in question, and then they must determine whether he was arrested while the riot continued. As to the existence of a, riot in the house, no doubt can be entertained. It appears that for a great many nights there were riots there of such a nature as go to put an end altogether to dramatic representation. I cannot tell upon what grounds many people have a right, at a theatre, to make such a prodigious noise as to prevent others from hearing what is going forward on the sta^e. Theatres are not absolute necessaries of life, and any person may stay away who does not approve of the manner in which they are manned. If the prices of admission are unreasonable the evil will cure itself. People will not go, and the proprietors will be ruined unless they lower their demands. The pro- prietors of a theatre have a right to manage a theatre in their own way, and to fix what price of demand they think most for their own advantage. It is said, if the prices asked are considered too high, people have a right to express their disapprobation in the tumultuous manner they have adopted. From this doctrine I must altogether dissent. It is time for the public to understand that the proceedings which have lately taken place at this theatre are in a high degree illegal, and that all those who participate in them are liable to be punished severely in proportion to their offences. The audience have a right to express by applause or hisses the sensations which naturally present themselves at the moment, and nobody has ever hindered or would ever question the exercise of that right. But if any body of men were to go to a theatre with a settled intention of hissing an actor, or even of damning the piece, there could be no doubt that such a deliberate and pre- concerted scheme would amount to a conspiracy, and that the persons concerned in it might be brought to punishment. If people endeavoured to affect the object by tumult and disorder they are guilty of a riot. So yon see in a matter in which there was no question of unlawful purpose, and in which there was no violence offered, the Chief Justice held it was a. riht of course, because there was so much disturbance that quiet and respectable citizens would bo afraid to go there. In the same way, if people, in their views with regard to the tithes, meet and behave in so violent and tumultuous a manner, with the object of terrifyiug any person— terrify reasonably, not foolishly—who would be inclined to go and buy, for in a law he has a right, then those who terrified are liable criminally. But we must take the other side of the question. It is clear that one of the ligits—the great and most precious right-of Englishmen is that they may meet to discuss political questions—questions of right and wrong-and that anything that is not illegal they might do, unless they bring terror and fear to other quiet citizens of the country. I should like to ca;l your attention to the next- the strongest case as fai as I know. It is what the other side has to say, and it is between BeaU'. and Gillbaaks. It was reported in the Queen's Bench Division reports, page 308. A number of the members of the Salvation Army met, and insisted upon marching in procession through the town of Weston-super-Mare. It was known that some of the populace were hostile, and that they would meet and disturb the Salvation Army, and that probably a conflict and a disturbance would be the result. The Salvation Army said, We are going to meet for a perfectly harmless purpose; we are going to walk along the streets, which we think we have a right to do, and we cannot believe that other people will be aliowea to do anything so illegal as to attack us and rise an uproar." However the magistrates convicted the Salvation Army because they were doing that which was illegal, committing a disorder. The case was brought before Mr Justice Field (since dead) and Mr Justice Cave in the Queen's Bench. Mr Justice Field said- I am of opinion that this order cannot be supported. The matter arises in this way. The appellants have, with others, formed themselves into an association for religious excercises among themselves, and for a religious revival, if I may use that word, which they desire to further among certain classes of the com- munity. No one imputes to this association any other object, and so far from wishing to carry that out with violence, their opinions seemed to be oppressed to such a course, and, at all events, in the present case they made no opposition to the authorities. That being their lawful object, they assembled as they had done before, and marched in procession through the streets to Weston-super-Mare. No one can say that such an assembly is in itself an unlawful one The charge against them is that they unlawfully and tumultuously assembled with others to the disturbance of the public peace, and against the peace of the Queen. As far as these appellants are concerned, there was nothing in their conduct to show that they were assembled together either tumultuously or against the peace. But it is that the conduct pursued by them on this occasion was such as on several previous occasions had produced riots and disturbance of the peace and terror to the inhabitants, and that the appellants, knowing when they assembled, that such consequences would again arise, are liable to this charge. Now, I entirely concede that everyone must be taken to intend the natural consequences of his own acts and it is clear to me that, if this disturbance of the peace was the natural consequence of acts of the appellants, they would be liable, and the justices would be right in binding them over. But the evidence set forth in the case does not support this contention on the contrary, it shows that the disturbances were caused by the other people antag- onistic to the appellants, and that acts of violence were committed by tnem The question of the justices-whether the facts stated in the case constituted an offence charged in the information- must therefore be answered in the negative. Mr Justice Cave concurred. Now, gentlemen, you see that it is a matter for the police and for the magistrates to consider whether in this case the people came together to show their dislike to tithes. To meet to hinder as far as they can private individuals in the exercise of their legal rights is a very wrong thing, in my judg- ment, because we ought not to interfere even in the civil rights of our neighbours. But still, if they go no further than that, it is not a criminal act. But if, on the other hand, they meet together, determined that, under no circumstances, the tithe shall be collected, and that they are prepared to use force and violence, if necessary, to stop it, then that would be a meeting together in a way which ordinary citizens ought to be afraid of, and may well be afraid of, and in that case such an assembly is clearly a criminal act. Then I should like to say one word about the steps that are taken to prevent what is believed to be a riotous assem- bly. If an assembly becomes an unlawful and a riotous assembly, there is no question that anybody, even a private individual, may arrestupon the spot, while a riot is going on, anybody who takes part in it. Of course, still more may a policeman arrest any man who takes part in it, or he may arrest anyone whom he thinks will take part in it. On the other hand, the law is very c ireful of the liberty of the subjects of the Queen; and, although for the necessary preservation of peace and order the law sanctions arrest where it is necessary, the law also says that it is undesirable that arrest should be made unless it is necessiry. Where a person who has committed a wrong act is known, and in whose case there is no difficulty in regard to the issue of a summons, arrest is not needed, because if that person is not likely to run away, it would be a mistake to arrest him. To summon him before the magistrates would be quite sufficient. Of course, if a riot becomes one where it is likely that there would be destruction of property, and possibly of life, then all methods should be used to stop it. It is not onlj the right, but the duty of the nearest magistrates to read the Riot Act, and all persons should be commanded at their peril to disperse. I ought not, perhaps, to express any opinion myself, because I do not know what the facts are; but, I saw it stated, in some places people who came together were not assem- bled to injure property or people, in that case it was for the magistrates to consider whether it i3 not wiser to stop these proceedings if in their judgment, they have gone so far as to be criminal, by finding out who are the ringleaders and sum- moning them, so that the question may be tried, and so to prevent a repetion of the affair. I hope you understand that either they may assemble, for an illegal purpose, such as stopping the course of justice of a court, or some- thing of that sort, or else in such a tumultuous manner that persons were reasonably afraid. There is only one other matter I should like to touch upon in conclusion. I understand that it has been alleged—I do not know whether truly or not—that persons that so meet together en- deavour to block the highway, and so prevent those who were going on their lawful business in executing these tithe distraints, from using the public highway and taking away the things that had been sold. Now, gentlemen, there is no doubt that the public highway is open to all the Queen's subjects who use it lawfully, and if any persons meet together with the intention of blocking the highway, or even without that exact intention, but utterly regardless whether they block the highway or not, they are a nuisance and a nuisance on a highway is a thing that can be proceeded against in a civil court usually, and sometimes by a criminal indictment. And if it is found that the highways of your county are stopped or interrupted —if for example, noises are made in the highways, and animals that al Q being driven along are apt to run out of the highway, that would be not a "ravo offence, but a criminal proceeding could be taken as suggested in my address. If the parties could be discovered and are n(,t likely to run away, which is not likely, that ought to be put down, because it is necessary for 11 the public peace that her Majesty's subjects should be able to do things which may be disagreeable and may be regarded by a certain number of the populace as odious, but which are legal according to the law of the land. We are to be very careful of not un- necessarily interfering with the opinions of those who differ from us. I hope that nothing that I have said will be understood as saying that it is not the right of all Englishmen to have their own opinions and to show them, for that is what makes England the free and great country that it is. But, on the other hand, the law of the land must be upheld, and while I am one-if I may venture, without derogating from my position, to say so-while I am one of those who greatly respect men who, as a matter of conscience, refuse to pay taxes which the legislature has imposed, but wnicn tney Know, ngntiy or wrongly, are wrong and immoral, still I do take it that all her Majesty's subjects are bound to submit to the law, and though they may not actually obey, are bound not to resist that law which the country gives, the right to collect the debts which are due to them. Those who in old times refused, refused from their love of liberty, to pay various rates and taxes, used, as far as I know, always to submit to the law, and allow the law to take that which was the property of the country. For all our lives and all ourselves, as long as we choose to live in England, are the property of the law of the land, and the Queen is the representative of it. And I do hope that all who may think that certain laws are unwise- that certain exactions are unjust-will remember that we are in a constitutional country, and that there are constitutional ways of getting those laws altered but until those laws are altered it is not only the duty of a citizen, but it is the duty of every one who read their Bible to see how the higher law of God says that we are to submit to the higher powers, and while the law of the land is so I should say Consider these I matters, and render obedience to the law which has made England so free and great until, by constitutional methods, those laws can be altered. I hope, gentlemen, I have not gone out of my way in making these observations, and that your county will be freer from great crimes, and even freer from crimes in the future.—The learnedCommissionerthen thanked the grand jury for the attentive hearing they had gi"en him. J The High Sheriff presented the Judge with a pair of white gloves as an indication of the entire absence of prisoners, and he having acknowledged the compliment, the Court rose, LLANDYSSIL. THE NEW ASSEMBLY ROOM recently built by Mr J. S. Jones, the genial proprietor of the King's Head Hotel, has already proved itself to be a great acquisition to the town, for at the meeting last Thursday there was generally estimated to be between 700 and 800 present. It is a commodious, square room, with wide platform; the light is perfect, and its acoustic properties are all that could be desired. It is situated in the centre of the town —adjoining the King's Head, and will in future be well patronised for local concerts, etc. The hearty thanks of Llandyssilians are due to Mr Jones for providing the town with such a room, which, when completed, will be a credit to the town and especially to the King's Head Hotel, with which it is connected. LAND NATIONALISATION. On Thursday (9th iust.) the town was visited by the lecture van of the Land Nationalisation Society, and in the evening addresses were delivered at the new Assembly Room, by Dr. Pan Jones, who is a native of this neighbourhood, Mr Addison, an agricultural labourer, and Mr J. Hyder, secretary of the society. We refrain from publishing in full the rambling speeches made, as they were practically the same as those delivered by the same speakers at Carmarthen on Saturday week, and which were reported in our last issue. The chair was filled by the Rev WE Jeffreys, Saron, who seemed highly honoured at being elected president of what was, no doubt, an enthusiastic, but easily influenced audiense. The platform, a very wide one, was fully occupied, mostly by the aged women and ohildren of the town, and the public in the body of the room showed a fair sprinkling of youngsters. The proceedings were about to commence when a 11 Punch and Judy" show appeared on the scene, and took its stand under the windows of the meeting place Punch meant business, and com- menced pommelling Judy at once, creating a terrific row, which was heightened by the happy Toices of scores of children. The Chairman, presumably to drown the noise caused by the children's caterer outside, opened the meeting by singing the first hymn," as he called it, in the tone book of the Society to the old Welsh air, 11 Can y mochyn dii." Mr Thomas Lewis started the singing, but for some unknown reason be was put a stop to by Dr. Pan Jones. The singing was again started, and continued in a shaky strain. Mr Ben Jones, Shop, seemed very much in favour of the principles of tht Society, at least he sup- ported it well by buying dozens of the tune books, which he threw broadcast among the audience. The following night the van moved to Tregroes, where anoth3r meeting was held. Believing that Penbryn was strong and healthy in the faith they left that district untouched and worked for Lampeter, where they camped over Sunday. LLINDOVERY. DEATH.—We regret to announce the death of Frederick Williams, youngest son of Sergeant Williams. The sad event occurred at the close of last week. The funeral, which was largely attended, took place on Tuesday. The coffin was covered with floral tributes. FUNERAL.—The funeral of Mrs M. Griffiths, wife of Mr D. Griffiths, Bran Bridge, whose death we recorded last week, took place on Friday, at the burial ground of the Baptist Chapel at Rhandir- mwyn, in accordance with the request of the deceased. The remains were conveyed to their last resting-place in the hearse of Mr G. Culvert, Castle Hotel. Friends and relatives were conveyed thither in vehicles, of which there were several in attendance. Mr Williams (curate), Llandovery, officiated at the house. SPECIAL SESSIONS.—At a special sessions held at the Town Hall, on Saturday, before the Mayor (Mr J. Watkins) and Mr E. P. Lloyd, a case came on for hearing that excited considerable interest. William Haynes, a servant lad, aged 17 year3, in the employ of Mr Owen Lewis, a farmer residing at Penrhiw, Llanddeusant, was brought up in custody charged with stealing, on the previous Wednesday, an entire pony and a saddle and bridle, all the pro- perties of his employer. Mr H. Alfred Thomas appeared for the prosecution, and prisoner was un- defended.—Mr Owen Lewis, the first witness, said he was a farmer resiling at Penrhiw, Llanddeu- sant. Prisoner was a servant in his eixploy. He saw him last about 2 o'clock on Wednesday last. He went down to town that day with witness's permission. Witness left home then, so he conld not say exactly what time prisoner left the house. Witness was the owner of the entire pony. On the day in question, he lent the pony to his brother-in- law to go to Llandovery, on condition that he left it in his (witness's) field by Velindre, and the bridle and saddle on condition that bf. left them at the Three Horse Shoes. Witness rented fields on the Velindre estate, and it was in one of these he generally kept the pony. He heard nothing about the pony. since till Thomas Phillips brought a telegram up to his place on Friday evening ad- dressed to P.S. Williams, in consequence of which became to town and found the pony and saddle to be missing. The saddle and bridle (produced) were hi?. He had since seen the pony. It was now in the custody of the police.—Thomas Phillips said he was a labourer and billposter in the town here. He was frequently in the employ of Mr Lewis, and looked atter his stock in the fields about the borough. He knew the prisoner, and had seen him about nine o'clock last Thursday morning. He brought the pony down to the Three Horse Shoes and asked for the saddle and bridle. Witness recognised the pony as that of Mr Lewis. Witness gave prisoner thu saddle and bridle (produced). He asked for them as belonging to his master. He said he was going to take the pony, saddle and bridle to his master at Llanddeupant, as they were busy shearing there. He last saw him riding it ilt the direction of home.—Thomas James said he was a police constable stationed at Cwmtwrch, in the Swansea Valley. He happened to be staying at Llangammarch that week. He saw prisoner on horseback there the previous morning about eight o'clock. Witness was in company with P.C. Bendle, and they both went up together to the prisoner. Witness asked prisoner if he could sell the pony to him. Prisoner replied Yes." Wit- ness then asked him how much he wanted for it. Prisoner asked, "How much will you giye?" Witness told him it was not right for him to put a price on his horse; it was for him to ask a reason- able price, and he would try to make a bargain with him. They made a bargain. He asked -68 for it, and witness thought it was worth j614. Witness examined the pony, and could find no blemish on it. He then asked prisoner where he came from. He said Tredegar." Witness asked him which way be came. He replied, "Through Trecastle and on to Newtown." Witness then enquired if it was his own horse or his father's, to which he replied it was his own, and that bis father was dead. He came down in price to 97, and witness ultimately bought the animal for £ 6 5s., and half-a-crown luck. That did not include saddle and bridle Witness asked him if he would sell saddle and bride. He said "No." He had borrowed them at Llandovery from a publican; he did not mention his name, and promised to return them. After buying tl,e horse, witness told P.C. Bendle to take it to the stable, and requested prisoner to accompany him to their lodgings to be paid for the horse. After Bendle came into the house witness showed prisoner the money, and expressed his belief that he had stolen the animal. Then Bendle apprehended him. and told him that he would be charged with stealing the horse, and that he would detain the horse till they found the owner, and that he (prisoner) would be locked up. Prisoner replied, No; the horse belongs tome."—William Bendle corroborated the last witness.-P.S. Williams, Llandovery, deposed that the prisoner was handed over to him on the previous day. He cautioned him and charged him with stealing an entire pony, a saddle and bridle, the properties of Mr Owen Lewis, Penrhiw, Llan- ddeasant, on the previous day. Prisoner replied, I have nothing to say to the charge," and after- wards said he had received a letter from his brother at Liverpool, who intended shortly going to India, and having no means to go to see him, be took the pony and rode to within a mile of Builth. There he stopped some time in a field in company of some people camping there. He left them about one o'clock, and missed his way in some plantation. He saw some man, and offered the pony for sale. That man directed him to some butcher in Llan- gammarch, who would be likely to buy it. After he had been in the last named place some time some men came up to him, and one of them bought the pony, and he afterwards turned out to bj a policeman, and took him into custody and locked him up at Llanwrtyd. He also said he had received no money, and was very sorry for what he had done, and that after seeing his brother at Liverpool he intended returning the remainder of the money to Mr Lewis, and would work for the rest.-P.C,. W. Davies sail he went to Llangam- march by the 2.8 p.m. train on Friday for the pony. the saddle and the bridle. He produced the saddle and bridle, and the pony was still in his custody at the Three Horse Shoe's stable.—Prisoner, who had been crying throughout the hearing of the case, on being formally charged burst into tears, and said, I am very sorry I ever took the pony. It is the first time I did anything of the sort."—The Bench ommitted prisoner to the assizes. I RURAL SANITARY AUTHORITY.—A meeting of this body was held after that of the Board of Guardians, Mr George Jones still presiding.—A communication was read from the Local Govern- ment Board, relative to the Llanwrtyd water, and a short discussion ensued on the subject. The further consideration of the matter was ultimately postponed for a fortnight. BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—The usual fortnightly meeting of this Board was held on the Town- hall on Friday, under the presidency of Mr George Jones, istrad. There were also present: < Messrs Daniel Williams, Pentre House W. P. Jeffreys E. P. Lloyd Williams, Cwmllynfi j T. Watkins, brewer; Evans, Mount; Griffiths, Bryawhith Evans, Llanwrtyd A. S. Gwynne Yaughan Griffiths, Dolbant; T. Rees, < Talgarth Williams, Pantyffynn, Caio; T. i Evans, Abergwenlais, &c.-The Treasurer's re- 1 port showed a balance in hand of R234 13s 3d. < Mr Williams reported the number relieved in his (No. 1) district for the week ending July 2nd, to be 198, at a cost of £24 4s corresponding 1 week last year, 201, at a cost of R24 Is lOd. For the week ending July 9th, 198, at a cost of 223 15s; corresponding week last year, 200, at a cost of £ 2313s. Mr Powell said that the number relieved in his (No. 2) district for the week ending July 2nd, was 175, at a cost of £ 20 3s; corresponding week 1 ist year, 188, at a cost of JE20 12s 6d. For the week ending July 9th, 175, at a cost of E20 3s corresponding week last year, 187, at a cost of £ 20 10s 6d.— The number of inmates last week was 17 against 22 in the corresponding week last year this week, 17 against 25 in the same week last year. Tramps last week, 17 against 12 in the corres- ponding week last year this week, 12 against 9 m the same week last year. The above report showed that Mr Watkins, brewer, had visited the House on the 8th inst, and found everything clean and tidy. The alteration in the sick ward had been completed in a workman-like manner. He considered it a decided improvement, and thought the money expended had been well spent. Mr Watkins directed attention to the dangerous stat6 of a portion of the pine end of the building in one of the rooms where the in- mates slept.—The Chairman suggested that it would be better to remove the inmates to some other part of the house, in order that the neces- sary alteration might be carried out.—Mr Wrtkins suggested that the Chairman and some .9 cf the most experienced guardians should visit the place, and come to some arrangement as to what they proposed doing. With this the Chair- man and others concurred, observing that they should invite tenders, so as to get the work done during the summer months. ABERYSTWYTH BOARD OF GUARDIANS. Monday Morris Davies, chairman, in the chair. Dr Hughes was ordered to fix upon the most convenient place for a Vaccination station within the liar district. Mr J. E. Morgan withdrew a ni)tion of which he had given notice for providing certain fur- niture (chairs and benches) for the use of the Rural Sanitary meetings. There was no other, except the ordinary routine, business. THE FIRE BRIGADE. The brigade was re- presented in the demonstration at the Crystal Palace before the German Emperor by Capt. Peake, Sergt. D. Jones, Firemen S. Stephens, R. Davies (No. 1), S. Evans, and R. Davies (No. 2). Mr Vaughan Davies, Tanybwlch, liberally contributed 94 towards the funds. WESLEYAN METHODISM.—By the new circuit araangements it appears that the Rev. Alfred J. French has been appointed t., the Aberystwyth station, and that he shall act under the direction of the chairman of the district as Financial Secretary. Also Welsh John Jones (G.), John Humphreys (Treddol), W. Morgan (H.), Thomas Phillips, and David Morgan, supernu- maries. LEGAL.—Mr George Cecil Roberts, articled to Messrs. Smith, Owen, and Davies, has success- fully passed his final examination at the Incor- porated Law Society. PF,ITSONAL. -Groat sympathy is felt for the Rev T. Wynne Jones, English Wesleyan Min- ister in this town, whose widowed mother was buried on Wednesday last in Bangor. OBITUARY. -We regret to record the death of Thomas Henry, son of Capt. Alfred Harlow, Jate of this town, who expired at Cardiff, after a few days illness, on Wednesday, the 2nd, at the early age of 17. He was a very promising young man, as evinced by the fact that he had attained the position of cashier in a large establishment at Cardiff. The deceased received his elementary education in Aberystwyth, and was a faithful member of Trinity Church Sunday School. His demise will be greatly felt by his former young friends here, besides his bereaved parents, brothers, and sistei s. He was buried on Satur- day, the cause of death being abscess in the head. CRICKET.—On Saturday a match came off on the cricket ground between the Welshpool "Fossils" and the "Ceredigion," of Aberyst- wyth, which resulted in a win for the Fossils." First innings Welshpool scored 50, and Aber- ystwyth 43 second innings Welshpool 81, Aberystwyth 53. The best scoring was Mr Edwards, 21, and Mr Boycott, 13. RURAL SANITARY BOARD. -A Meeting was held Monday at the Clerk's Office, Mr James Jones in the chair. App ication was ordered to be made to Mr Ikin, the landlord, for permission to have a supply of water from Pantglasbach land for the requirements of the village of Trerddol. As to the Llanbadarn water supply, it appears that an enquiry is to be made by the Local Government Board into this long debated question, and the Black Lion Inn, Llanbadarn, was fixed for holding the enquiry. The In- spector of Nuisances was ordered to bring in his house to house inspection, ordered to be made at a previous meeting of the Board. THE NEW POST OFFICE —This fine new building is now being roofed, and presents an imposing appearance, and will prove a great improvement and acquisition to the town. It is expected that Mr John James will, ere long, commence building his new shops in the intervening spaces-sites of the buildings burnt down some time back. RATES.—Notices are posted up, signed by the Town Clerk, informing us that a district rate of Is 6d in the X and a water rate of Is werj imposed at the last Council meeting. Complaints are mpde that in some parts of the town there is a deficiency in the supply of water for flushing purposes d-i i ing the nights. Surely this state of things should not be allowed, now th-it the town is full of visitors, and there being no scarcity. Representations to the authorities and officials seem to be useless. SCIENCE AND ART.—The following is a list of the successful students, as far as the same have been received by the committee:—Animal Physiology Thomas W. Hunt, Stage A, Class 2nd; Elizabeth A- Roberts, Stage A, 2nd Class; Mary E. Jenkins, Stage E, 2nd Class; Elizabeth A. Jenkins, Stage E, 2nd Class; John Richards, Stage A, 2nd Class; Thomas D. Jenkins, Stage E, 2ad Class; William u. iiivans, stage A, 2nd Class; Rhoda J. Russell, Stage A, 2nd Claas; Cecil Coutts, Stage E, 2nd Class. Practical Plane and Solid Geometry—John Richards, Mary E. Jenkins, Elizabeth A. Jenkins, William J. Jones. Physiography-Ceqil Coutts, Stage E, 2nd Class; Thomas Levi, Stage E, Ist Class; Sarah E. Thomas, Stage E, 2nd Class. RECREATION, ENTERTAINMENTS, &C. The town being now nearly full of visitors who are daily arriving in increasing numbers, it is gratifying to state that the deficiency of amuse- ments, &c., complained of at the commencement of the season has been timely remedied. Mr I Charles Hermann, the well-known theatrical manager, has engaged both the old Assembly Rooms in Great Dark Gate-street, and the capacious new Hall of Phillips', in Terrace- road, the former as a theatre, where "Our Boys" and many other popular dramas have been per- formed by a very talented company during the week to crowded and appreciative houses, the latter Hall being occupied by Cheesman's Ladies' Orchestra and Choir, where an attractive pro- gramme is nightly performed, and sacred pieces on Sundays performed with refined taste. The chain pier again is occupied day and night by the Cremona Company, who also give sacred perfor- mances on Sundays. On the Marine-terrace the two local brass bands-The" Excelsior," of Mr < Jack Edwards, and the "Briton" of Mr J. R. Jones—perform every alternate evening, and ] great credit is due to the town authorities for < their encouraging of the native element. Both t bands are very superior, evincing great labour < and time spent in the most beneficial and culti- ( vated manner, all the performers being working t men. We have also the nigger troupe perman- t ently, as well as promiscuos string bands, by permission. High-class operas and concerts are announced by great artistes. SCHOOL BOARD.—The ordinary monthly meeting was held in the Board-room on Friday last, at six p.m. Present-Messrs Peter Jones (chairman), Thomas Owen, Revs J. II. Protheroe, and Pre- bendary Williams. The bills and demands upon the Board, including salaries of teachers, were examined and passed, and it was decided that a special meeting of the finance committee be called in future for the purpose of examining bills and signing cheques. The report of the sub-committee or the management of science and art classes 11 reported in THE JOURNAL of the 19th ult.) was ,gain considered (being adjourned from previous neeting), and after discussion the report was adopted, subject to the exception that the Board leclined to guarantee that the income of the art naster from all sources be .£100 (the actual salary )eing .£30). Tbe committee was ordered to adver- tise for master, and write to South Kensington on he subject, and also ordered to make enquiries as iO securing rooms at the College. A list of school equirements was produced by the mistress of the nfant school, and the same were ordered. Mr Peter Jones and Rev Prebendary Williams were appointed school visitors for the ensuing month. rhe presentation of prizes to the schools was ordered to be made on Wednesday next, at the Board Schools, and the meeting was adjourned to that date. THE INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODDFELLOWS, M.U. rhis influential friendly society is unquestionably the most important factor of any in the lives and well-being of working men in this town and sur- rounding districts. The 87th grand half-yearly committee of the lodges belonging to the Aberyst- wyth district was held at the Town Hall on Thurs- dav last, when there attended the Grand Master, J D Jones (presiding), James Griffiths, D.G.M., P.P.G.M., J J Griffiths, corresponding secretary, E P Wynne, treasurer, Thomas Davies and — Davies, auditors, and the following delegates :— St David's—P.G. C H Cocks. Rheidol—P.G. H Hughes. Temple of Love—P.G. George Lloyd. Earl of Lisburne-P.G. David Jones. Druid- P.P.G.M. W Spurway. Catubriau-P.G. John Ellis. St John's—N.G. W Richards. St Padarn —P.G. David Jones. Llynlleoedd—P.P.G.M. John Lewis. Dovey—P.P.G.M. Edward Jones. Goger- ddan—D.G. Isaac Jones. lologoch-P.G. David Edwards. P.G. John Cowley was appointed inside guardian. The Grand Master delivered a most interesting and encouraging address upon the numerical and financial increase and position of the Unity in general, and this district in particular. In this address, and in the figures disclosed in the Chairman's address at the subsequent dinner, it appeared that there was an increase of 22,000 to the membership of the Order in the course of last year, being the largest for one year on record- that the capital of the Order ending 31st December, 1890, amounted to the enormous sum of X7,358,853 17s Od, showing an increase of funds in that year of Y.300,655 13s 7d. The number of members at the beginning of the year was 651,890; admissions during the year 49,934, making a tatal of 701,824; and deducting on account of deaths and lapses 28,757, it rendered 673,073 as the present member- ship, showing an actual increase of 21,183. With I regard to this particular district, the value ap- peared to be £ 7,518; membership 1,656; new members 120; amount paid for fuueral of members and wives £ 208, and for sick pay XI,150, against contributions of XI,377 lis lOd. After the Grand Master's address Mr Cocks proposed, and Mr H Hughes, Rheidol, seconded, that D.G.M. James Griffiths, St. David's, be Grand Master, which was carried unanimously. P G. David James, St. John's, and P.G. I1. B. Hall, Rheidol, were nomi- nated for the office of D.G.M. The report of the district examiner having been read, the funeral claims amounting X124 were paid. After some further technical business was transacted, the dele- gates and officers adjourned to the Lion Hotel, where a sumptuous dinner was provided. The chair was filled by Dr. Morris Jones with his usual efficiency. The usual loyal toasts, songs, and speeches were given, and a most happy afternoon was spent, the most interesting part of the proceed- ings being the presentation of a silver medal to Bro. J.P.P.G.M. in recognition of the able services rendered by him to the district. A hearty farewell was given to Bro. Spurway, who is leaving the district, with best wishes for his success in a higher position. Great sympathy was expressed with Mr J J Griffiths, the C.S., on account of his recent illness, from which he is now recovering, and con- gratulation upon the honour conferred upon him in being appointed borough magistrate, and also upon his having stood second highest on the poll in the new district committee at the last A.M.C. and being appointed vice-chairman of the com- mittee. It appeared that 475 delegates attended the Ipswich A.M.C., being the largest representa- tion on record. Eighty delegates were reported to be suffering from influenza, several of whom have since died. COUNTY COURT.-The County Court was held on Saturday, before Judge Bishop. There were 60 cases entered.-Ford v Daniel: This was a remitted action, in which G. Ford, formerly of Cardiff, now of Birmingham, was plaintiff, for whom Mr Braham Barnett, Cardiff, acted as solicitor, and Mr Glascj- dine as counsel. The defendant was Capt. David Daniel, New Road, Ponterwyd, mine agent, for whom Mr Evan Evans (Robert and Evans) con- ducted the defence. The claim was .£47 13s. principal and interest due under a covenant in a deed. The defendant filed counterclaim. The witnesses were called, but the case was argued for several hours, and judgment was reserved. Williams v. Harris: This was a claim by W. Williams, shoemaker, against Captain Morris, Pier-street, for whom Mr W. H. Jones appeared. The plaintiff conducted his own case. The case created considerable amusement from the way the plaintiff managed himself in the witness box. The defendant proved that the boots, subject of the claim, were obtained through his brother, the late Mr Richard Morris, who had credited plaintiff for the value. The Jud„'e commented upon the de- meanour of the plaintiff, attributing to it as one reason why he gave judgment for the defendant.- The jury case, Gathercolc v. Phillips, was further adjourned by consent of both parties.—An applica- tion for new trial of Hill ats Parry was made. It will be remembered that this was the trap accident case tried at the last Court, in which judgment was given for the defendant. The application was refused.—Mr Jenkin Jones, Brunant, Lledrod, grocer, applied for his discharge, which was _"n.1 4-1. 1_ • giauiou, vu uuc uuuuttiuu fit nis consenting to judgment being entered against him for .£50. Mr W. H. Jones was for bankrupt. The Official Receiver appeared personally. LAMPETER. RH<USTRAB OF MARRIAGES.—Mr D. Lloyd, Superin- tendent Registrar for Lampeter, has appointed Mr Evan Davies Rees, of 9, Station Terrace, Lampeter, solicitor's clerk. as Registrar of marriages for the Lampeter District in the room of the late registrar The same has been confirmed by the Registrar General! BOARD OF GUARDIANS. A meeting of the Board was held on Friday (10th inst.), when there were. present Messrs David Davies, Velindre, chairman; T. H. R. Hughes, Neuaddfawr; Lewis Davies, Gelli; John Fowden, Bank Hall Rev Daniel Jones, Lampeter; Rev Daniel Griffiths, Trefilan Messrs Samuel Davies, Coedpark Thomas Price, Wernfendigaid; David Morgan, Nantymedd; Daniel Evans. Brithdir Wm. Wilii.m. I -&u. Clymdu Evan Jones, Llanllwni James Jones, Caerau Evan Davies, Blaenaugwenog Thomas Evans, Capel Iago John Rees, Dolgwm David Evans, Coedmorfach T. G. G. Marsden, Dyffryn; David Lloyd, clerk. Outrelief, rf-c. Lampeter district, per Mr David Parry, 234 12s 3d, to 154 paupers Llanybyther dis- trict, per Mr David Evans, zC33 15s Gd, to 133 paupers. Number in the House, 37 corres- ponding week last year, 23. Vagrants relieved during the past fortnight, 56 corresponding period last year, 15. Balance in treasurer's hands, R192 13s 3d.-P.,eport The Master re- ported as follows (1) That Margaret Morgans, wife of Jenkin Morgans, of Cathal, Llanwenog, and her three children were brought into the House by Mr David Evans, relieving officer on the 2nd inst.; (2) That Letitia Williams and her illegitmate child, belonging to the parish of Pencarreg, were admitted into the House on the 4th inst., by order of the Medical Officer; (3) That Sarah Jones and her infant child referred to in my report of the 29th May last, are still in the House. Registrar of Births and Deaths j A letter was read from Miss Mary Esther Lloyd, of Dolgwm House, Lampeter, applying for the post of registrar of births and deaths for the Lampeter sub-district, rendered vacant by the leath of her father, Alderman David Lloyd. rhe Rev Daniel Jones proposed, Mr John Fowden seconded, and it was unanimously jarried, that Miss Lloyd be appointed subject to he approval of the Registrar General. Collectors to the Guardians: The Rev Daniel 3 riffiths gave notice that at the next meeting of he Guardians he will move that the salaries of he collectors of the Guardians be reconsidered. HIGHWAY BOARD. A meeting of the Highway | Board was held after the Board of Guardians, Mr T. H. R. Hughes in the chair. The Surveyor (Mr John Jones) explained to the Board that he had during the quarter ended Lady Day last made the usual and necessary re- pairs to the roads intended to be adopted as main roads by the County Council and several members of the Board who were acquainted with roads, stated that the allegations made at the last meeting of the County Council to the effect that nothing had been done to the roads referred to was erroneous. CRICKET MATCH, On Saturday last a match was played between the 2nd xi., of St. David's College School, and the 2nd xi., of the town on the school ground, and resulted in an easy victory for the school who made 75 in their first attempt, A. E. Edwards (18 not out), D. T- Jones (15), E. L. T. Grant (11), George Evans (11), and D. Jones James (7), being in splendid form. The town team deserve a word of praise for their smart fielding throughout the innings, and John Thomas (Captain), and D. King Jones who proved very efficient in the bowling. Sammie Jenkins and Nelson Jones also demonstrated the truth of the old adage Trech metal na maint" as they were very active in stopping runs. Amongst the batting for the town D. King Jones (10), George Jones (9), Christmas Davies (7), and J. Strand Jones (7), played well for their side. The town In the 1st innings made 27 when they had to follow on, but were again dismissed for 38 runs, thus leaving their opponents the victors by all innings and 10 runs. The following amongst the school team deserve mention for their bowling :-E. L. T. Grant, D. Jones James, D. T. Jones, and A. E. Edwards, also Derin I)- Morgan, for his good fielding. LLANGUNNOCK. COOMB RENT AUDIT DINNER. On Wednesday week an excellent dinner was provided at the Half Moon Hotel. Carmarthen, in connection with the rent audit of the estate of Mr Thomas Morris, of Coomb. After the cloth had been removed, Mr Walter Lloyd, of the firm of Messrs Lloyd and Ihomas, agents for the estate, occupied the chair. Ul h fUM Tu wefe proposed, including the health of Mr and Mrs Morris, several of the tenants speaking in the highest praise of their generous Mr Sackvlu padIad^ VVe should mention that of \r e Gv!ynnj attended the dinneron behalf fL! SVTh° 18 at present *<»* home, and was theiefoie unable to attend personally. Mr Rowland Browne, solicitor for the estates, was also present.