The Pontypridd Chronicle and Workman's News

THE DEPARTING YEAR Though at the time of our publication this week we cannot. say with the poet that We have seen the skirts of the departing year," the present number ot the CHRONICLE i dated the last day of the year 1881, and we feel in duty bound to glance, briefly, at the past twelvemonths. The position of the country generally may be looked upon as considerably better now than it was in January last; we are at peace with other nations, trade is steadier, and a fair amount of prosperity is to be seen on all hands. We have not been favoured with a large number of new Acts of Parliament, because so much time was wasted over frivolous objections to the Irish Land Bill, a measure which occupied the attention of the whole country for months, but one, which, now that it is passed, we believe is getting to be more and more appreciated by the people of Ireland, and one which will practically settle the land question in the sister Isle. A Welsh Sunday Closing Act was passed which is not to come into operation until next year. The Report of the Com- mission on Higher Education in Wales has been presented, and it is expected that during the coming year action will be taken upon it by Parliament. Without going into details, we may remark that political prospects are bright enough from a Liberal point of view, the Government is as strong as ever, and real. expeditious work may be anticipated. The great leader of the Conservative party, Earl Beaconsfield, passed away in the month of April, and in the ranks of his followers there is no one great enough to wear his mantle. Locally, the passing year has been an im- portant one. Trade has prospered, wages have been advanced, works have increased in number, several new lines of railway into the district have been and are about to be opened, notices have been issued of intended applica- tions to construct street tramways in the Rhondda Valley, the local Liberal Association has largely increased in membership and influence, a Chamber of Trade has been formed at Pontypridd, and one is about to be formed at Treherbert, and- but we have no space to descant as we would wish upon the retrospect, or indulge even in a sketch of the ancient customs which were and are now to some extent, observed by thousands as they toll the knell of the depaiting year, or joyfully welcome in its successor. Let it suffice us to wish our readers, each and everyone of them— A HAPPY NEW YEAR.

SKITS AND SKETCHES, BY OUB. ROVING ARTIST. IT is rumoured in the Valley that Messrs Moody and Sankey are to be invited to come to this district to conduct services. *#* THE Taff Vale Railway Company t. drove a roar- ing trade during the Christmas holidays; special trains ran continually, and all were crowded to excess. *#* YSTRAD folks are anxiously looking forward to the promised improvement of their railway station. Well, my dear friends, the ground has been measured, the cost of a glass roof over the platform has been carefully estimated, and you may now— wait and see what will be done.

THE SERGEANT'S TURKEY.—A LOCAL STORY OF THE PRESENT DAY. Police Sergeant- looks well after his Christ- mas experiences," but he always appears hale, hearty, and jolly, and the Turkey he had a short time ago has not impt oved him a bit. This is how it happened. A gentleman living several miles from Pontypridd sent his man around with some turkeys, one of which was to be given to my friend, the sergeant. When the man arrived at the sergeant's station he pointed to a small turkey, which he said was young and tender, but the burly sergeant remarked that the next to it was a far larger bird. The man's reply was that the large bird was old, and would no doubt be tough. But the sergeant determined not to be caught with chaff, and he obtained the large turkey. The bird was cooked, and then Well the worthy sergeant had in the performance of his duty exposed his manly bosom to the cowardly blows of many a ruffian, but he never tackled as tough a customer as the one now before him. He had on niany a day watched through a darkened glass the sight of a solar eclipse, but he was now sorry to find that the prospect of an enjoyable dinner was eclipsed by the fact that the turkey's skin eclipsed in toughness the hide of a hippopotamus. He bad scanned at night the beauties of the starry firmament, wondered at the great and glorious sights of nature, measured the tails of comets, and studied their courses; but-what is man ?— he now had on his own table an object with a face as devoid of life as that of the moon, and a tail as unfathomable as that of a comet. He kept good knives, but they were not equal to the task of carving that turkey, and the bird had to be abandoned, and carried to the back of the house. There the dogs of the neighbourhood gathered around it, and for three weeks they made night hideous with their barking, but neither jointly nor separately could they make the slightest impression upon the carcase of the sergeant's turkey, and for aught I know that extraordinary bird may be going abegging to this day.

DEPARTURE OF SIR E. WOOD. Friday's second edition of the Times contained the following telegram from its Durban correspondent, under date December 22: Sir Evelyn Wood em. barked at 4 o'clock this morning in the steamer African, which at once left for Delagoa Bay, where it will meet the British India steamer for Aden. Sir E. Wood's departure has evoked a hearty and general expression of regret. Addresses were pre- sented in public by the Mayor of Maritzburg and Dur- ban, in the presence of applauding crowds. A ball in his honour was given last evening, and at the supper his health was drunk with enthusiastic cheering. In reply to the Durban address, Sir E. Wood said the outburst of sympathy was pecu- liarly welcome, as he had been called upon to play as difficult a part as had ever devolved on any military commander in this century. Sir Evelyn's reticence in regard to his work at Laing's Nek commanded general admiration. He stated that Lord Kimberley had offered the Governor- ship of the colony to him, but out of consideration for the best interests of the colony he had declined the honour. This resolve has caused much regret, and keen solicitude is felt as to the next selection of Governor. Colonel Mitchell acts as administrator, but, though deservedly popular, it is felt desirable that a permanent appointment to the office should I be speedily made.

-"Lor. of' THE PROPOSED RHONDDA VALLEY TRAMWAYS. ARE THE SCHEMES TO BE OPPOSED? SPECIAL MEETING OF YSTRAD LOCAL BOARD. A special meeting of the Ystradyfodwg Local Board to consider the application of Mr H. Ll. Grover, solicitor, for consent to the proposed line of tramway from the Llwynpia to Treherbert being laid through the district of the Board, was held on Friday afternoon, at Pentre Chambers. There were present: Mr John Davis, Brynfedwen (in the chair), Messrs E. Davies (Primrose Hill), D. Evans (Bodringallt), E. Thomas (Maindy Hall), W. Lax, and E. Evans; with the clerk, Mi Walter H. Morgan, and the surveyor, Mr Jones. The Clerk said Mr Grover and the engineer of the Tramway Company were in attendance, and ready to come in and explain anything which the Board would like to clear up. In the course of a conversation which ensued the clerk said he thought the Board had better obtain the services of some experienced, impartial engineer, to assist their surveyor in checking the two proposed schemes in such a manner as to protect the interests of the Urban Sanitary Authority. Mr E. Evans suggested' that the clerk should write to the authorities at Cardiff, Neath, Swansea, and other places, to ascertain what steps had been taken by them when tramways were first proposed in their towns. Mr D. Evans: But if we intend giving notice of objection we must give it before the 15th of January The Clerk You might perhaps, give conditional consent. The Chairman We are anxious for the tramway but we must look after the interests of the public, and see how far it may interfere with their rights. Mr E. Davies I don't think we ought to go in for the two schemes. The Cierk That will be a matter to be decided by the inquiry, and so on. The Surveyor having, in reply to questions, said he would be glad to see the Board appoint a gentleman experienced in tramway matters to go through the plans. Mr Lax thought they had better adopt the suggestion. Mr D. Evans said the more he looked at the matter the more convinoed he became that they as a Board ought to watch the schemes on behalf of the ratepayers. Of course he would be very glad to be able to ride to Ystrad from Bodringallt in a tramway car, but there was no doubt it would interfere to some extent with the ordinary traffic of the district. Many grocers and tradesmen would, no doubt, object to the schemes beeause they would, if the schemes were passed, not be able to leave a horse and cart outside the shop, as the roads were too narrow. Mr E. Evans But the grocers and others have no right to leave their horses and carts on th& road. Mr D. Evans But we allow them to do it now. The tramway people would not. Then there is no place in connection with nine-tenths of the houses here to put a load of coal down except by the roadside. Mr Lax: There is no doubt it will interfere with the business of other people. Mr D. Evans proposed that the Board employ a practical and efficient engineer to report upon the tramway schemes to the Board. Mr E. Thomas said the matters mentioned theie that day should be pointed out to the engineer, as the important question was to deal with obstruc- tion. Mr E. Evans and Mr E. Davies said they understood that one company at least, would widen the road where it was too narrow. The Clerk said they must have a better under- standing than that. Mr Lax seconded Mr D. Evans's motion which was unanimously agreed to. The Chairman, Mr D. Evans, and the Clerk were appointed a committee tj appoint and instruct the engineer, it beipg understood that the services of a first-class London gentleman would be obtained.

PONTYPRIDD BOARD OF HEALTH. The monthly meeting of this Board was held on Tuesday afternoon, at their offices in Mill-street, when there were present: Mr C. Bassett (in the chair), Messrs D. Leyshon, W. Griffiths, G. J. Penn, Jabez Evans, A. Cule; with the Clerk (Mr H. Ll. Grover), and the Surveyor (Mr E. Rees). The Clerk said there were several important matters to be discussed, such as the question of the vacancy of Mr W. Lewis's seat on the Board, the rate for the half year, the sewerage question, Ac., &c., as the tramway people wanted the Board to have a meeting next Friday week, perhaps all these matters could be entered into then. It was resolved to hold an adjourned meeting on the day named, but to dispose of as many things as possible at the present meeting. THE VACANT SEAT. As to the seat of Mr W. Lewis, it was said that a circular containing a reference to that business had been sent to Mr Lewis, and yet he was not present. Some conversation ensued as to the advisability of filling the vacancy at once. The. majority, however, seemed to be in favour of leaving it until the adjourned meeting, the Clerk to write to Mr Lewis in the meantime to ask him if he has any valid reason for not attending. Dr. Lewis Morgan, Hafod, was mentioned as a suitable gentleman to fill the vacant seat. THE SEWERAGE SCHEME. This matter was mentioned, and Mr Penn again urged his views upon the Board, while Mr Griffiths considered that it was a matter that really ought to be faced, but no decision was come to, and the subject dropped. THE NEW FIRE ENGINE. The Surveyor reported that the new fire engine had arrived and been tested at Ynysangharad yard. Some coments were made on the fact that though the engine cost only jE80, the various extras ordered by the lboard, brought its price up to £219 14s lOd. The Board determined to test it again on Satur- day, before paying for it. The Clerk remarked that thay had at the same time, better inquire as to where to keep the engine, with whom, and to contract for horses, &c. THE PRIVATE IMPROVEMENTS IN UNION STREET. The Surveyor having reported that he had delivered to the Guardians a statement of the cost of the private improvemants in Union-street. The Chairman said the Clerk to the Board of Guardians complained of the small amount of the apportionments of other owners in that street. The Surveyor replied that he did the whole of the work for the Guardians, and it cost dElOl 19s the amount to the owners was only JE17 lis, be- cause they did the work, but not to his satisfaction, and he completed it aDd charged them that amount. Mr A. Cule: You will explain that to Mr Spickett, then, will you ? The Surveyor: Yes. A NEW RATE. The estimate for the half year amounted to £13,00 odd, and it was stated that there was about £ 270 uncollected of the fast rate. I The Chairman and Mr Penn complained that the accounts were not rendered in time and that the rate ought to be got in by some means earlier. The Chairman What has become of the appeal of the Taff Vale Railway. The Surveyor They got the assessment reduced by .£278 rateable value. The Chairman There you see, we only get it ont by asking. Mr Penn But why do we permit it ? Mr Jabez Evrns: It is down in the estimate. Ultimately, Mr Rees was instructed to report monthly what amount has been collected, what is due, and who are the defaulters. The Chairman It appears to me that Mr Rees always waits for the new valuation lists before making his estimate, I think he should go on the old one Mr Leyshon I think it is safer to use the old one. Mr Jabez Evans We cut our rates so very fine. I wanted to have the rate 2d more the last time. I did not want to pay it, but I thought it was necessary. Mr Penn: Take & tenpenny rate now, and you'll do. It was stated that a tenpenny rate realised £1521 odd. A tenpenny rate was agreed to, on the motion of Mr D. Leyshon, seconded by Mr A. Cule. j The plan of a new brewery for Mr D. Leyshon | haying been passed, the meeting waa adjourned.

PONTYPRIDD CHAMBER OF TRADE. FIRST MEETING OF SUBSCRIBERS. ELECTION OF OFFICERS. The first general meeting of the subscribers to the Pontypri Id Chamber of Trade took place at the New Inn Hotel, on Wednesday evening, when there were present:—Messrs G. J. Penn, A. Chivers, C. Bassett, W. H. Morgan, J. E. Price, I. Prothero, T. Aston, Chas. Norman, H. S. Davies, J. Roberts, W. Nicholas, W. Williams, J. D. Jones, R. Male, P. Williams, W. Merchant, D. Cule, J. Jones, J. Crockett, W. H. Key, R. H. Jones, D. Rowlands, E. Williams (Maltsters'), R. D. Williams, E. Griffiths, Jabez Williams, Fillipini, George Morgan, D. Griffiths, H. J. Wiltshire, D. R. Evans, J. Evans (brewer), D. Phillips, J. Prothero, Hopkin Morgan, C. Morgan, J. Davies (Trallwn), W. Davies (Holly House), J. Coombes, G. H. Williams, J. Evans, (draper), P. Lougher, Ll. Delaney, E. Bauman, W. Griffiths, T. Morgan (Vron), H. Hopkins, J. Davies (chemist), Rees Williams, D. Rees (draper), D. Morris (Ynysangharad), T. Jenkins (fellmonger), T. Evans (draper), J. Robotham. W. Lewis (Tophill), J. MHIer, J. Morgan (Trallwn), M. Cule, Rees Davies, and J. Miles. Mr T. Morgan, Vron, having been elected chairman, pro. tem., Mr Price read the notice convening the meeting. The Chronicle reporter being present, Mr Hopkins (brewer) asked whether the meeting was a public one or not: The Chairman: I thought myself it was to be a public meeting. But I don't knew the feeling of the meeting. Mr A. Cbivers I beg to move that the repor- ter be present. Mr G. J. Penn seconded the motion, and it was unanimously agreed to. The Chairman then delivered a brief opening address, in the course of which he dwelt upon the necessity that had been felt for a Chamber of Trade at Pontypridd. The town was growing in size and importance as the head and centre of a populous district, and if the business people were united in an Association such as the one now formed, he believed they would thereby reap material benefits. (Hear, hear). Therefore he hoped the Pontypridd Chamber of Trade would be a success. (Applause). BYE-LAWS. I Mr J. E. Price next proceeded to read the bye- laws which the committee engaged in arranging for the formation of the Chamber had prepared and recommended. By those it appeared that the name of the Association shall be the Pontypridd Chamber of Trade, and that its object is to sup- port the trade, commerce, and industries of the district that the annual subscription of members shall be 10s 6d each; that there are to be the usual officers, with, a council of management which is to meet monthly; that the annual meeting will be held on the second Wednesday in in January, and quarterly meetings on the second Wednesday in April, July, and October, &c.—He explained that these rules", ere formulated on the basis of those in force at Cardiff and Merthyr. Mr Key asked whether the name Chamber of Commerce would not be better than Chamber of Trade ? It would be more comprehensive. Mr Price said the objects of the Chamber were fully stated in the rules, so that people need not be misled by the name. And he thought that as it might be necessary for this Chamber at some future time to act in concert with the Cardiff and Merthyr Chambers of Trade, they had better keep to the same name. If they adopted the other they might, perhaps, be considered fastidious or magniloquent. (Laughter). Mr W. Griffiths moved the adoption of the bye- laws, and Mr Bassett seconded the motion. Carried. ELECTION OF PRESIDENT. The Chairman said the next business on the agenda was the election of President of the Chamber. On being asked whether the committee had anyone to recommend for the post, Mr Price said they had thought of the matter, and they knew of no-one more closely identified with the interests of the locality, and who had done more to help forward the good of the district than the gentleman who so worthily and honoura- bly presides as a Stipendiary magistrate at Pontypridd. (Applause). He (Mr Price) was glad that the meeting by those signs of appro- bation, endorsed the action of the Committee. He had seen Mr Gwilym Williams on the sub- ject, and that gentleman readily, and cordially consented to accept the position, if the members of the Chamber elected him to that position. He had great pleasure in proposing that Mr Gwilym Williams be the president for the ensuing year. (Applause). Mr Bassett seconded the proposition with pleasure, and was glad to find the meeting so cordially endorse the sentiments of the committee. The motion was carried una, voce. VICE-PRESIDENT. Mr H. Hopkins considered it advisable to have as a vice-president a gentleman connected with the trade of the district, and as such he proposed Mr W. Griffiths, Mill-street. This was seconded by Mr John Evans, and agreed to nem. con. Mr Griffiths briefly returned thanks, and promised to do his best. (Applause.) TREASURER. Mr H. Hopkins proposed, and Mr John Davies seconded, that Mr W. Merchant, of the National .Bank of Wales, be treasurer. Carried. Mr Merchant thanked the members for electing him, and promised to support the Chamber in every way he could. (Applause). HONORARY SECRETARY. Mr G. J. Penn proposed Mr J. Edwards Price to be hon. secretary. That gentleman, he said, had worked hard to get up the Chamber, and fully deserved the honour of being its first searetary. (Applause.) Mr Hopkins seconded the motion, which Was carried with acclamation. Mr Price thanked them for the confidence they reposed in him. He would not deny that he had thought it possible that they might elect him to the post—(laughter)—not becaase of any special qualifications he possessed to fit him for it, but because he had been amongst those who started the idea, and he had worked with it up the present. He was well aware that it would entail a considerable amount of labour to fulfil the duties, but he would do all he could, and he hoped that at the end of the year they would endorse the decision of this meeting by according him, if he deserved it, a vote of thanks. (Laughter and cheers.) COUNCIL. 38 gentlemen were nominated for election to the council, which is to be composed of 16 members. A ballot was taken, and the following were elected, by the number of votes given :—C. Bassett, 30 D. Cule, 30; T. Morgan, 25 H. Hopkins, 25; R. Smyth; 23; M. Cule, 23; G. J. Penn, 23 j A. Chivers, 20; W. H. Morgan, 20; J. Crockett, 19; R. Rogers, 19; P. Lougher, 18; W. H. Key, 18; D. R. Evans, 17; T. Harrison, 17; W. Williams (draper), 17. AUDITORS, Messrs H. S. Davies and J. Coombers were elected auditors, and the meeting terminated with a vote of thanks to the Chairman.

ST. PAUL'S INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL. The Home Secretary has informed the School Board for London that, having referred the case of the St. Paul's Industrial School to the Director of Public Prosecutions, he has received from him a report stating that the evidence would not support any criminal charge, and that, consequently no criminal proceedings can be instituted. Sir William Harcourt adds that he intends to propose that a Royal Commission shall be issued to inquire into and report up 'n the whole system upon which reformatory and industrial schools are established and administered.

GROWTH OF TRAMWAYS. A Parliamentary return just issued relating to street and road tramways down to June 30 this year, shews the remarkable growth of the tramway in public favour since 1876. The capital authorised to be raised by shares in 1876 was 23,141.000; it is now £ 7,6C2,509, and of this amount £ 5,096,030 has been paid up, and to this adding the sum raised by loans and debentures makes the total amount expended £ 6,939^838. There are 488 miles open for public traffic. The stock of the companies comprises 15,220 horses, 40 locomotive engines, and 2,045 cars. There have been 205,623,510 passengers carried down to 30th June this year; the cross re- ceipts were £ 1,576,301; and the net receipts after paying working expeoNS, £ 336,406.