The Pontypridd Chronicle and Workman's News

GLAMORGAN COUNTY COUNCIL AT PONTYPRIDD. ^INFLUENTIAL PUBLIC MEETING AT THE TOWN HALL. THE CLAIMS OF OUR TOWN FURTHER STRENGTHENED. WHAT HAS MR ALDERMAN MORGAN DONE IN THE MATTER? QC A CAREFUL, ELABORATE, AND TRUTH- FUL STATEMENT." An influential public meeting was held in the Town Hall, Pontypridd, on Tuesday evening, liaving been convened with the view of taking into consideration the best means of accommodating and entertaining the members of the Glamorgan County Council on the occasion of holding their first statutory meeting at Pontypridd on Monday, the 1st proximo. Amongst those present we noticed the following:—Mr Alderman W. H. Mor- fan, Councillors H. Hopkins, James Roberts, W. t. Mathias (Ynyshir), Dr Evan N. Davies (Cym- mer), Dr R. W. Jones (Mountain Ash), Revs W. I. Morris, W. Parry, 'and E. Dunmor Edwards Messrs D. Rowland, W. W. Phillips, J. Coombes, C. E. Elliott, J. Crockett, Edward Rees, E. Griffiths, W. Jones, H. Porcher, M. Morgan (Ty Rhondda), T. Davies (" Chronicle"), Charles Morgan, I. Kuner, Hopkin Morgan, Joseph Davies, M. Lorie, E. P. Ralls, D. Cule, J. Jones (draper), W. Williams (do.), W. Seaton, H. S. Davies, and others. Mr Alderman W. H. Morgan occupied the chair, and in opening the proceedings said they all knew the object of the meeting. They had realised what they expected to realise, and what some people did not expect to realise. They had the first meeting of the County Council to come to Pontypridd. (Applause.) They would meet in Pontypridd on the 1st of April, but he hoped they -would not, on that account, be a council of fools. (Laughter.) The case of Pontypridd had been put forward strongly at Neath, and the advocates of Pontypridd had the hearty support of the members for the Rhondda Valley. (Hear, hear.) They had a majority of the Council in their favour, the votes being 43 for Pontypridd as against 36 for Neath. He hoped there would yet be more votes for Pontypridd, although some might vote for other towns besides Neath and Pontypridd. Several schemes would have to be -considered in the future, but he need not go into that matter now. Since the last meeting at Neath, the local members had gone into the figures, and with the assistance of Mr Sprague (to whom the • chairman passed a flattering compliment for the valuable assistance he had rendered on behalf of the claims of Pontypridd in preparing statistics And other information), they had been able to -arrive at further figures which would STRENGTHEN THE CLAIMS OF PONTYPRIDD. Applause.) Petitions for other towns were only generalities, but the figures for Pontypridd had never been controverted. (Hear, hear.) Their petition went fully into the matter. A larger number of councillors would be convenienced by coming to Pontypridd than any other town in the I county, and that was, he thought, the chief object they had to consider. He (the speaker) would go r so far as this. No matter if they had to go to the < expense of erecting a suitable building, they must study the convenience of the largest number of members, and he considered it was false economy to go to a small out of the way place like Neath simply because they happened to have a building there for the holding of the council meetings. (Hear, hear.) They should go to the place most convenient to the majority of the members. Un- less this was done they could not expect to have proper representation, and the county would con- sequently be partially disfranchised. (Cheers.) If a small tcwn like Neath could afford to pay £ 7000 or C8000 for a building, it was ridiculous to .say that so wealthy a county as that of Glamor- gan could not defray the cost of suitable buildings for the accommodation of the council and its officers. (Hear, hear.) CAIWIFF AS THE MEETINC PLACE. Some people were inclined to think that the coun- cil ought to meet in Cardiff. (Cries of Oh, oh.") For his own part he thought it was disrespectful to the county at large that they should hold their meetings outside the county. Cardiff was no more in Glamorganshire, as far as the purposes of I the Local Government Act were concerned, than Newport or any other place. Why then go to Cardiff ? (Applause.) Unless the members pro- tested strongly against such an idea as this, he hoped the electors would do so. (Hear, hear.) No men of sense would ever think of going out- side the county. Pontypridd was a most convej nient place, and if they did not have a suitable building in the town now, it should be built at the expense of the county. At the last meeting of the council, they did not, he thought, put forward their best face. At the outset there were 39 coun- cillors nearer Pontypridd than Neath, as against 19 nearer Neath. Now, however, since the "election of aldermen, the figures in favour of Pontypridd had been increased. Since the last census there had been a larger proportionate increase in the population of East Glamorgan than any other part of the county, and in con- sideration of this the council had allowed them their fair share of aldermen. Mr Morgan then proceeded to read a number of statistics showing the superlative position and claims of Pontypridd .:as opposed to other towns. HOW PONTYPRIDD NOW STANDS. 'Taking councillors and aldermen, there were now -54 members nearer Pontypridd than Neath, as -compared with 24 nearer to Neath, and 10 equi- distant. As to the relative positions of Pontypridd and Merthyr, 46 members were nearer Pont- ypridd than Merthyr, as against 40 nearer to Merthyr, with two equi-distant; but on the com- pletion of the Rhondda and Swansea Bay Railway, two additional divisions, namely Sketty and Oystermouth, will be nearer by railway to Pontypridd than to Merthyr, thus increasing the number of members nearer to Pontypridd to 52, and reducing those nearer to Merthyr to 36. According to the present constitution of the council, the number of miles to be travelled by the members in order to attend meetings at Neath, Merthyr, and Pontypridd is as follows :-Neath, average on the total of 24i miles; Merthyr, 21 miles; Pontypridd, 19i miles. Whichever way they looked at the facts and figures PONTYPRIDD IS FAR AHEAD! (Cheers). The question then hummed itself into this. An effort should be made to obtain a suitable building as a meeting place, and also an improvement in the railway service. The train service he (the speaker) admitted was not conve- nient, but it would, no doubt, be altered. Some people were inclined to think that they had no half at all in Pontypridd—only a police court, where the members would be all huddled together. '(Laughter.) When, however, they came to Pont- ypridd on the 1st of April, those gentlemen would Jind they had a very commodious Town Hall. With a comfortable place to meet in, and a better railway service, they would have a fair chance to secure the council meetings at Pontypridd alto- gether. A plan and estimate had been prepared by Messrs Howell and Co., Cardiff, for the arrangement and decoration of the hall, and they should be laid before the meeting for their con- sideration. It would also be expedient to prepare & luncheon for the members of the council. Coming as they would be from long distances, and especially to the bracing air of Pontypridd, they must expect to find that those gentlemen had keen appetites. (Laughter.) J THE COUNCIL TO BN ENTERTAINED BY MB A. THOMAS, M.P. It was at first intended to ask some kind gentle- man from the town to entertain the members of the Council. It would not do for the town itself to do so. But even the necessity for the generosity of individuals had been averted, for he was happy to be able to announce that the honourable and respected member for that division,Mr A. Thomas, M.P., had intimated to him his intention of enter- taining the whole of the members of the Council i Ilia:, I t; i J to lunch. (Loud applause). Mr Thomas was a most estimable member. Perhaps he did not spaak in the House of Commons as often as some members, but he took a deep interest in the welfare of this district, perhaps more so than any other gentleman, and they ought to thank Mr Thomas for his munificence. (Renewed applause). j The chairman concluded his remarks by asking Mr Hopkins to explain the plan of the proposed [ arrangements. I Councillor H. Hopkins rose to explain that Alderman Morgan, Councillor Roberts, and him- self had discussed the desirability of entertaining 'I the councillors on the 1st of April. He hoped they would do so regardless of political feeling or any other bias. (Hear, hear.) There was nothing in this matter which should allow of the introduction of political bias. He appeared before the meeting as the representative of the town, to ask them to assist the local members to entertain the council in such a manner as to be worthy of Pontypridd and the county. If the town would not do so, they (the members) would do so without the assistance of the town, but he would rather that all should join harmoniously together, and work unitedly for the great object which they had in view. (Cheers.) The matter originated with Mr Walter Morgan, who consulted Mr Roberts and himself, and they decided to ask Messrs Howell & Co., of Cardiff, to prepare a plan and estimate of the work of decor- ating and arranging the Town Hall for the occasion. The plan and estimate he then held in his hand, and after he had submitted them to the meeting, it would be for those present to say whether they were feasible and practicable, or not. Mr Hopkins then described the plan of the arrangements of the room, the details of which seemed to be gener- ally acceptable by the meeting. The hall itself would be reserved entirely for the members, and the gallery for the public, who would thus be afforded an opportunity of listening to the learned and interesting speeches which would be delivered. (Laughter.) He scarcely thought they could make better arrangements than these, while the drapery decorations would greatly improve the appearance of the room. He again hoped the townspeople would banish all the political differences of the past three months, and come forward to enhance the interests of the town and district. (Hear hear.) A COMPLIMENT TO MR ALDERMAN MORGAN. After the very careful, elaborate, and truthful statement which had been made by his friend, Mr Alderman Morgan, at Neath the other day, he could not see how they could fail to have the first council meeting held at Pontypridd, and now they had the first meeting to come here, he hoped the meetings would be held at Pontypridd perpetually. (Cheers.) There were several things to be con- sidered by-and-bye, but now it behoved them, as ratepayers, to entertain the councillors in the most hospitable manner possible. In this way they would further the interests of the town, and secure Pontypridd as the permanent locus of the county council. (Applause.) He trusted that they would not consider that what the local members had done was extravagant, because they could do more. (Laughter.) Whatever they did that evening, let it be regardless of political sentiment. Let them have one object in view-that of the interests of Pontypridd. He claimed credit on behalf of the members of the district for having done'all that possibly could have been done, and it now rested with the inhabitants of the town to back up what they had done. (Continued applause.) WHY SEND TO CARDIFF FOR A PLAN AND ESTIMATE. Mr J. Coombes was very pleased with the ideas and object for which the meeting had come to- gether, but he did not see there was any difficulty in the matter of arranging the room. Then why send to Cardiff for a plan and estimate of the work when it could have been offered to local gentlemen who were in the trade ? He could not understand why they should go to Cardiff for everything in this way. It seemed disrespectful towards local tradesmen, he thought. The Chairman was not aware that there was anyone in the town in the decorative trade; there might be, of course. Mr Coombes I simply give expression to what has come across my mind, and perhaps other gentlemen present will support me. The Chairman assured the meeting that there I was no intention on their part to slight the trades- men of the town. They only did what they thought was best under the circumstances, as the time was short, and they had only three weeks in which to do everything. Messrs Howell and Co. were in the trade, and as they decorated the hall for the occasion of the banquet last week, they had everything necessary at hand, and could conse- quently do the work cheaper than anyone else. (Hear, hear.) Mr J. Crockett felt deep interest in the town, but as there was such a short time before the meeting, he fully agreed with what the members had done. If they invited the tradesmen of the town to submit plans and estimates, a delay would be caused, and the work would then be done very hurriedly and badly. But by going to a practical firm like the Messrs Howell, who had men and mater:al ready for the work, they had done what was best. (Hear, hear.) The plan before them was a good one, and the proposed arrangements were fully in keeping with what they wished the council to see and experience while they were with them in Pontypridd. (Applause.) After a remark from Mr C. E. Elliott as to the seating arrangements, Councillor W. H. Mathias was called upon, and said he was very pleased to come amongst them that evening, although he had no intention of speaking. He was proud that they were making an effort towards having the council meetings held at Pontypridd. They had a hard struggle at Neath, and their chairman (Alderman Morgan) fought hard to get it. Now the first meeting was to be held at Pontypridd, he trusted they would do their best to receive the members well. (Hear, hear.) They might depend upon it, it would rely very much upon the impression felt as to the first meet- ing whether the council would be held here again. If the meetings would be regularly held at Ponty- pridd, a new hall and cierk's offices would have to be built, and there was every probability of their having a suitable site being placed at their dis- posal. (Hear, hear.) The members from the Rhondda Valley would do all they could for Pont- ypridd. (Cheers.) The plan before the meeting was a good one, and the estimate as reasonable as possible. Under the circumstances the arrange- ments would be quite as much as were required. Mr H. Porcher concurred with the reason- ableness of the estimate, the sum of E37 10/- covering the whole of what was proposed to be done. Mr Hopkin Morgan repeated Mr Coombes' ques- tion as to why they should send to Cardiff for the work, and the chairman replied. The former did not like the idea of sending to other places when it could be done equally as well in the town. He was sure Messrs W. Williams and Co. would under- take the work on the same terms as Messrs. Howell. Mr Williams replied that he would not,although he had the same means of doing so as Messrs Howell. He did not think it would be honourable on their part to oppose the action of the gentlemen who had obtained the plan and estimate. At the same time he did not agree with all that Mr Crockett had said. Mr Ralls saw no difficulty in the way of having the work done at home. They were jealous of the coun- cil meetings going anywhere else, and yet they were sending to a Cardiff firm to carry oat the arrange- ments in connection with those meetings. (Hear, hear.) They had drapers aad contractors in the town who could undertake the contract. He pro- posed that local tradesmen he asked to tender. Mr Hopkin Morgan seconded. He did not question the motives of the gentlemen at all in sending to Cardiff. „ Mr W. Williams thought perhaps Mr Crockett or Mr John Brans would undertake the job. Mr Orockett: I would require about six months to do the work. (Laughter and hear, hear.) Mr W. Seaton moved as an amendment that Messrs Howell's plan be accepted. It would be un- fair to take undue advantage of that firm's plan and specification besides, it cannot be done in the town for the money. Mr Oroekett seconded the amendment. Mr Hopkins said their only wish was to work efficiently and economically. He assumed that the tradespeople of Pontypridd were as unselfish as himself. It was only a small amount, and the time Was short. If it were possible to give time to have the work carried out, it would be quite another thing, but he considered they would have the ex- perieuce of men in the business who oould do it ■ •' 1 :-f ■ I .„•* Mr Ralls was now willing to withdraw his re- solution with the consent of the seconder. He had said what he did as a. protest against money which would have to be subscribed by the townspeople going away from the town. Mr Hopkin Morgan was sorry to hear Mr Seaton say that it could not be done in the town. Mr Seaton I did not; I said it could not be done for the money. Mr Morgan I misunderstood you. I will take the job myself if some one will join me. I am ashamed of the tradespeople of the town. We pay rates and taxes, and why should the money go away like this. The Chairman then put the amendment to the meeting, when 30 hands were held up in its favour, and 10 against. The amendment was, therefore, declared car. ried. ELECLLON OF OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE. Messrs W. Jones and H. Porcher were elected hon. secretaries and all present were appointed a committee, with power to their number. The first meeting of the committee was fixed for Wednes- day evening next, at the Llanwonno Vestry Halt), at 7.30. SUBSCRIPTION LIST. A subscription list was opened, and promises of support were freely forthcoming, a large amount being realised at the meeting. The list was headed with a subscription of two guineas from the chair- man. ELECTION OF DEPUTATION. The next business was to appoint a deputation to wait upon Mr Hurman, of the Taff Vale Rtilway Company, with regard to obtaining convenient rail- way facilities for the 1st of April. The gentlemen selected were Messrs D. Evans, Bodringallt; W. Jenklns.Ystradfechan W. H. Mathias, Ynyshir; W. H. Morgan and H. Hopkins, Pontypridd; and James Roberts, Treforest; who will wait upon Mr Hurman en Saturday next. The Chairman read a letter from the Rev. D. W. Williams, M.A., Fairfield, regretting that indisposi- tion prevented his attendance at the meeting, and expressing sympathy with his object. MAP OF THE DISTRICT. Councillor J. Roberts moved that the Pontypridd Local Board be asked to prepare a planlof the county, with delineatiens showing the districts under the Local Government Act. This, it was felt, would materiaally foster the claims of Pontypridd. He should like to have seen more members of the Local Board present. The matter before them was one for which they must fight. They had not yet secured the number of members of the Council in their favour that they had anticipated. Even gentlemen from I Merthyr and Aberdare, for some reason or other, preferred going to Neath rather than Pontypridd. They said there was no accommodation in Pontypridd, but he (the speaker) contended that they would have accommodation there. (Hear, hear.) He hoped the committee would take up the matter seriously and earnestly, and do their utmost to make the reception of the members worthy of the town. (Cheers). There was a feeling in favour of Neath, but he considered the room in Neath was much too large, and the acoustic properties of the room were consequently seriously affected. The question was one of tre- mendous importance, and if they got the meetings here permanently it would be of infinite value to the town aad neighbourhood. It would raise Pontypridd in the statas of the county on an equality with Cardiff and Swansea. (Hear, hear). Some of the members, again, were in favour of a "-moving council. How that scheme could be made practicable he could not understand. In the near future they would have to get a permanent meeting place, with clerk's offices, <fec., and surely Glamorganshire was wealthy enough to erect them. Telegraphic and other facilities should also be brought within the reach of the members wherever they met, and he was sure that in the multitude of councillors there was wisdom. It only remained for Pontypridd to do its utmost to assert its just claims. Bfe (Mr Roberts) would do all he could at the Local Board to induce that body to obtain theplans asked for. Mr W. W. Phillips seconded, and promised to give his warmest support to the application at the Local Board. Mr D. Rowland supported. He thought it was very important that they should have the Council meetings held at Pontypridd. Pontypridd was all the world to him—(laughter, and hear, hear)—and he did not know of any town ia the world that he would exchange for Pontypridd. (Renewed laughter and applause). The motion was carried unanimously. We should add that the use of the Town Hall has been placed gratuitously at the disposal of the Council by the Pontypridd Town Hall and Market Company.

CORRESPONDENCE. We do not hold ourselves responsible for the opinions of our correspondents. THE RECENT COMING OF AGE BANQUET AT PONTYPRIDD. To the Editor of the "Chronicle." Sir,-As a native of Pontyprid I I should like to be permitted to make a few remarks in your paper. Notwithstanding my long residence' in London, I still continue to take a great interest in all that affects the welfare of my native town. On reading the list of invitations published in your paper of March 1st., in the list of tnose invited to celebrate the coming of age of Mr E. LI. Thomas, I noticed with regret the omission of the names of several old and respected townspeople. I do not think it ceuld have been the wish of Mr Thomas that so great a slight should be cast upon some of the oldest inhabitants of the town. Should this meet the eye of that gentleman, he will, no doubt, cause some expression of regret to be con- veyed to those who hive received this presumed slight. It is a pity that the universal pleasure of his coming of age should be marred by this unfortunate oversight. Apologising for trespassing oa the space of your valuable paper, I enclose my card, and remain, sir, lours truly, FAIRPLAY. London, March6,1869.. <,

LLiNTWIT FARDRE SCHOOL BOARD. I ELECTION OF OFFICERS. OUTLINES OF A NEW REFORM BILL. INTERESTING REMARKS. 'e The first meeting of the Llantwit Fardre School Board since the election took place on Tuesday, at the Graig Schoolroom, whan there were present:— Mr J. Richards, Mr D. Leyshon, Mr J. Roberts, Mr D. Bryant, Rev. E. Rees, Rev. Father Ashby, and Mr Hopkin Morgan; with the clerk (Mr H. S. Davies.) Mr D. Bryant was elected chairman pro tem, and he proposed that Mr James Richards be re-elected chairman of the board. He (Mr Bryant) remarked that Mr Richards had been chairman of the Board for a number of years, and although something might be said possibly in favour of changing officers of public boards at certain periods, yet where a gentle- man had discharged his duties in such a fair and impartial spirit as Mr Richards had done in presiding over this board be thought it was only doing justice to him to re-elect him. (Hear, hear). Mr Richards had been chairman of the board from its commence- ment, and he, therefore, begged to propose that he be re-elected. Mr D. Leyshon seconded, and bore out the remarks of Mr Bryant. The motion was carried unanimously. Mr Bryaut then vacated the chair,and Mr Richards took his place once more as chairman of the board. In doing so he thanked the members for tbAir kind- ness iit unanimously re-electing him, and also expressed his gratitude to them for the assistance they had rendered to him in the discharge of his duties in the past. He hoped the same harmony would prevail in the board in future as had been the case hitherto, and promised that with their co-opera- tion he would do his utmost to fulfil the duties of his office. (Hear, bear). He urged the members to consider that they were there representing the whole parish, and that the interets of all schools were theirs, and not those of any particular school. Members from the lower part of the parish should visit the schools of the upper part, and vice versa. They should saggest any improvements they thought fit, and work jointly, so as to make the schools, if possible, more successful even than they were, and to render the buildings and their surroundings cheerful and pleasant, so as to improve the position of the children, and make them feel that the schools were places in which to enjoy themselves while acquiring education, and not mere prison houses. (Hear, hear). He then proposed that Mr Leyshon be re-elected vice-chairman, and said he did not know of anybody who could fill the post better than that gentleman. Rev. E. Rees seconded, and the resolution was carried unanimously. Mr Leyshon thanked the Board for the honour now for the third time conferred upon him. In looking over their work of the past three years, he could not help mentioning the vast improvement which had been effected in the Graig Schoolroom. The building was a credit to the town and an honour to the board. He thought that notwithstanding the recent extension, that they would have to extend the boundary further. The Chairman—Up again ? Mr Leyshon—Yes, because we cannot do it any other way. (Laughter). Proceeding, he said the chairman's suggestion that the members should visit the whole of the schools was one which pleased him very much, and he hoped it would be acted upon. He was glad to find that his neighbour, Mr Hopkin Morgan, had been elected a3 member of the board, and although he was sorry they lost the services of such a good member as Mr Judd, still he had full confidence that if Mr Morgan paid the same attention to the duties of the board as Mr Judd had done, he would be one of the best members of the board. (Hear, hear). With regard to the decoration of the schools he believed the ratepayers would be quite willing to incur some little expense in obtaining pots of flowers, ee as to improve the appearance of the school windows, and indeed even if they were not willing, he would be willing to contribute towards it out of his own pocket. The flowers would give a nice aroma in the schools, and the children would be able to say that this board was ahead of other boards. He hoped the matter would be taken up. Rev. E. Rees said that he and his friend Mr Bryant, eould say with some pride that they were ahead of the board in this matter, for in Llantwit they had had these flowers for along time. Some reference had been made by the chairman, to the morality of the children, and he had thought of suggest- ing that it would be well, if it were possible, that the children of a certain standard should have a course of education in the geography of Palestine, and outlines of Scriptural history. Certain classes he meant, just before they left school. They would find children well up in the geography of the whole world, but if asked anything of the geography of Palestine they could not answer, and the same might be said of scripture his- tory. He did not say that he would like to have the Bible brought in and read. Mr Bryant: It is read. Rev. E. Rees: Not as a subject or class book. He thought merely an outline should be given. He knew that many in the parish would be glad if this could be done: end as they were alluding to free schools they were doing in that way. Mr Roberts: What do yon mean by free schools ? Rev. Father Ashby: Undenominational, national. Mr Roberts: But they get funds in the same way as we do. Rev. Father Ashby: Are we aupposed to examine all the schools ? The Chairman: Yes. Rev. Father Ashby: Mr Davies has got me to ex- amine some of the classes, but is it oar duty to visit all the schools. The Clerk: It has been understood that certain members visit certain schools. Mr Roberts (to Father Ashby): And you this school in particular. The Chairman: I am sure we shall be glad to see you at Treforest School. Mr Bryant said he had heard more new suggestions made that day than daring the last IS years. There was an old adage "Anew broom sweeps clean." He could only hope that the suggestions of amendment did not indicate that they had neglected their duty in the past. He did not know whether the gentlemen who had spoken would confess that it was so. He was sure their chairman and vice-chairman did not neglect their duties. With all the suggestions heard that day, le and all these new things', and of the energy which was to be infused into the business, he really did not know whether they would be able to bear it. (Laughter.) Judging from the excellence of their work in the past, and the new things they were to expect in the future, they must surely reach perfection. (Laughter and hear, hear.) The Chairman: We will take one thing at a time, you know. Mr Bryant: I hope so. THE COST OF THE ELECTION. The Clerk presented Air E. C. Spiokett's bill of charges for conducting the recent eleotion of members. Mr Hepkin Morgan asked how it was thtbt two guineas were charged for the presiding officers, and an extra 21 to the same officers for oounting the votes. The Clerk: That was next day. Mr Morgan: Woo were the presiding officers the next day ? Mr Kobers Mr Spickett's son was one. I Mr Hopkin Morgan: Bot he charges for his son as returning officer. The presiding effioers of the previous day were not there. ihe Clerk Are you sure of that P Mr Hopkin Morgan: 0, yes, oertain. Then there is the charge of railway fare for bringing a gentleman down from Mountain A., b to be sworn in; but neither this gentleman from Mountain Ash nor Mr W. R. Davies, who was at Treforest, were there when the votes were counted. The Clerk: Those who were there instead might have been presiding officers at some other eleotion. Mr Hopkin Morgan I thhink it ia an abomin- able charge— £ 1 each for three boys. Mr Roberta: They were not much better than three boys. Mr Hopkin Morgan: And they were only there for a few hours. Mr Bryant: If we strike them out we will find that we will have to pay it again. Mr Roberts: They are fees allowed by law. I quite agree with you that they are very heavy sums for a very short time. Mr Hopkin Mocgan: 0, very well; it seemed to me heavy. The matter then dropped. Mr Hopkin Morgan said another item was for 16 lis. 5d. paid to the clerk for publishing the list. The Clerk It is not bis duty as your olerk to do go. Mr Morgan—It ia AS lis 54 for preparing and publishing the list of voters throughout the parish. The list of voters waa 93 odd. The Vice-chairman — Solieitora and elerka* charges are much better than those of bakers and brewers. (Laughter). ■ ,♦ Mr Morgan—I should think so. The Clerk-It is a halfpenny pei name. Mr Bryant—I think these people know what they are about. They know whether they can be taxed, or not. Mr Morgen-I think it is a piece of impudence to put four shillings train fare eown from Mountain Ash to this gentleman here. The Chairman—Yes. And there is another item- the attendance of the police at the polling booths. We have been discussing that at this end of the table, and we have tried to strike it oat. The matter then dropped- TREFOREST SCHOOLS. A letter was read from the Education Department returning the plans of Treforest schools, submitted to them by the architect, the estimated cost of carry- out which f 1.590. Mr Roberts said he did not understand how the architect had piepared suck an elaborate plan, for their recommendation was to provide a class room and place for the cloaks and hats of the children, and nothing like the expenditure of £ 1,500 was in- tended. Mr Bryant: Do you thiuk we really need to go into Buch alterations at the present time. Mr Koberta: We want something, but not to the extent of this expenditure. After some further conversation, it was decided to proceed for the present with the purchase of land for the addition to Treforest School aad of the house adjoining, but not to incur any expenditure but what was absolutely necessary so provide cloakroom accom- modation.

SURPRISING dURE IN A BURNLEY FAMILY. Burnley Gazette, January 5th. A noteworthy cure his just been effected in the family of Mr Robert H .11 Wilkinson, of 62, Branch- street, Burnley. It was stated to bP of such a sur- prising and unusual kind that it was decided to oend one of the staff of this journal to interview the parents and thoroughly investigate the facts and present an nnbiased statement for the guidance of the public. EVA, c. ne of the youngest daughters has been the little sufferer of the household almost from her birth. According to the story of the parents, the child his never been right since it reached the ago of four months. It became weak and listless, and when placed in a sitting posture preferred to lean its head on the side of the chair. Its appetite almost fled, and its limbs became thin and wasted. For sixteen months the child was under the treatment of local doctors, but no im- provement was visible. Several advertised reme dies were next tried at tte recommendation of friends and neighbours; but all to no purpose, Eva's pitiable condition being in no way relieved. The child had now reached the age of two and a half years, without being able to use its legs in the slightest. As a last resource the father was in- duced by reading a number of testmonials to try a bottle of "Warner's SAFE Cure." The parents were agreeably surprised with the results. In a short time a change for the better was apparent, and this continued to the great satisfaction of the family. The listlessuesa already alluded tc disap- peared, and the little patient began to manifest an interest in what was passing around her. The fondness for continual reposs gave plaoe to a de- ft re to move about the house, and her wasted limbs are recovering their natural appearance. The parents are naturally elated at the altered oondi. tion of their daughter, and readily volunteered the particulars narrated above to our representative, adding that they would be vouohed for by all the neighbours who were as much surprised as they (the parents) wera pleased. Since visiting the above (an interval of 4 weeks) the reporter who interviewed the parents and also saw the child, has paid a second visit to the house of Mr Wilkinson, and finds the child Eva as much improved in the interval of foar weeks as be was led to expect from the previous statements of the thankful parents would be the case. They are also more firmly impressed than ever as to the efficiency of "Warner's S .fe Cure." This great remedy can be obtained of all Chemists and Medicine Vendors in the United Kingdom at 4/6 per bottle, or of the manufacturers, H. H. Warner & Co., 86, Clerkenwell Road, London,E.C.

TRUANT CHILDREN IN LUNIWIT I ZZZ FiRDKE_PARISH. BOYS SLEEPING FOR-j THREE^WEEKS IN A PIGSTYE. "IN A BEASTLY STATE." At the Llantwit Fardre School Board meeting, on Tuesday, the Vice-chairman (Mr Leyshon) presented a report of the Attendance Committee, recommending that certain parents he prosecuted because their children were not sent regularly to school.—The sumonses were ordered to be issued, but in the course of a discussion which arose as to some of the cases, Mr Roberts said it was a pity that punishment should be inflicted upon innocent women and thildren when the fault really lay with drunken fathers.—Mr Leyshon Un- doubtedly it is hard in some cases still we must do our duty, and we shall be blamed by the in- spector unless we take stringent measures.—Mr Roberts If he is going to look up charges, there are a number of children who never go to school. -The Clerk (Mr H. S. Davies) In our parish ? -Mr Roberts Yes.-The Clerk That does not reflect credit on the Board. Mr Roberts But how can you help it; the parents are here, there and everywhere.-The School Attendance Officer: I am doing all I can to hunt up all children.— Mr Roberts: I am not reflecting on you. I know you are a most valuable officer, and doing as much as any man in getting at the children to come to school still, with all your efforts, you know you cannot get them.—Attendance Officer I am only selecting the worst cases to bring be- fore you, because I am getting it afterwards.-The Chairman You are getting used to drilling from the women.—Vice-chairman The inspector mentioned some time ago that we were too lenient with the children.—Mr Roberts said no doubt some of the children were very bad. Three boys from Llantwit not long ago slept for three weeks in a pigstye near the Treforest works, and went out begging during the day time, and the lads ranged from 8 to 13 years of age.-Attendance Officer One of them has been sent to an in- dustrial school since.—Mr Bryant I think I I know the cases. The boys were in such a beastly state that we had to order those who bad charge of them to put them in a fit state before we could take them to Llantwit School.—The matter then dropped.

PONTYPRIDD BOARD OF GUA.RDIANS. At the fortnightly meeting of this Board on Wed- nesday, the Rev. D. W. Williams, M.A., presiding, there was a large attendance.—There were sixteen applicants for the post of relieving officer for Eglwy- suan and Llanfabon. The appointment was conferred on Mr Thomas Jones, of Upper Boat.—There were only two applicants for the appointment of vaccination officer for Ystradyfodwg, and after a keen contest Mr George Williams (who assisted the late Mr George Davies) was elected.—The Rev. W. Morris gave notice that at the next meeting he would move that in future no plural appointments be made.

A PONTYPRIDD MAN COMMITTED FOR PERJURY. At the Pontypridd Police Court, on Wednesday, (before the Stipendiary and other magistrates), Jehn Harris, of Pontypridd, was charged with committing Serjury. It appears that defendant was, on a Sun- day, recent found by P.8. Menhinaick and P.C. Lewis in the Lamb and Flag Inn, when he pleaded that he lodged at Ynysybwl, and had come from there that morning. In the 'face of this allegation he was discharged by the magistrates. Since then, howpver, the police discovered that Harria' story waa untrue, hence the charge of perjury. The Bench committed him for trial at the Aasixea. No MOM D*A*.—Nicholson's Patented Artificial Bar Drums cure Deafness and Noisea in the Head in all stages. 183 pace Illuatrated Book, with full des- cription, free.—Addreaa J. H. Nicholson, 21, Bedford Square, London, W.C. ,-r

AMERICAN STORIES TRADE WAS A LITTLE DULL. Ithnohardty got dull enough yet, though '"or some people to makes jokes about, as is witnessed by the following little story wliieh ia ■■■tumping the round of the American commer- ial press. It appears that in spite of all their -enius and perseverence the Yankee udniln. ii>;rs," or commercial travellers, are finding t'iir results continually diminishing. One of these gentlemen, who had just re- turned from a trip for Thistle Brothers and Co., i Boston, did not show a very large exhibit of ( iders to balance the liberal expense account ,t!!owttd him by the firm and Mr. Thistle, after lu iking over the return, said: "Mr. Rataplan, I am afraid you do not approach t'ie dealers in the right; way. I used I i be very successful in this line. Now just i-iiipposeme to be Mr. Biglier, of Sellout, Illinois, <md show me the way YOII introduce the house." Accordingly, B.-itaplan stepped oub of the counting-room, and re-entered, hat in baud, enquiring 1? Mr. Bigher in ?" That is my name," answered Thistle in banely. My name is Rataplan, sir; I represent the house of Thistle Brot her? and Co., of Boston." Thistle, in his character of Westesfi mer- chant, here rose, offered the salesman a chair, and expressed his pleasure at seeing him. "I am stopping with Overcharge at the Slickem House, and have a fine unbroken lot of which I should like to show you; think we can show yuu some special advan- tages," etc. And Rataplan delivered himself of a neat speech in professional style. "Very well. very well," paid Thistle; cc I don't see but tttat you understand the way to got at customers." Excuse me, Mr. Thistle," said Rataplan I am afraid yon do not understand the Styla of Western merchants just now suppose you exchange places with me, and we repeat this rehearsal." "Certainly," said Thistle, and picking up hit hat, he stepped out. Returning, he found Rataplan with his chair tipped back, his hati cocked fiercely over his right eye. his heels planted on Thistle's polished desk, and a lighted cigar between his teeth. Thistle looked a little staggered, but never- theless commenced Is Mr. Bigher in ?" "Yes, he im," responded Rataplan, blowing a cloud of pure Connecticut into Thistle's eye. Who on earth nre you ?" "I represent the house of Thistle Brothers and Co. said the astonished employer, cough- ing out a quart of "moke from his throat. The blades you do! Are you one of that concern No. eir, I am not," @,.id Thistle. Well, it,\Pe very lucky for you that you are not, for I've had two drummers to one customer in my store for the last two months, and if I could get hold of one of the stupid fools that send 'em out here at this time, I'm blessed if I wouldn't boot him clean out of the town of Sellou t." "That'll do, that'll do, Mr. Rataplan," said Thistte. "lhave no doubt you did the best you could for the interest of the house. Trad& is a little dull."

VERY SOCIABLE. 'The people of New York are not very sociable, are they?" said a Western man, addressing an acquaintance who lived in the East. Well, I don't know but they are, although they may be a little peculiar in that respect. For several years I had my office in a very large building on Broadway. One day a ftllow came in and asked if my name was J. W. McFiddleton. I told him it was and then, after styfew moments' silence, he said 'My office is just across t he hall, and ever since I saw your "ign several years ago I have been intending to drop in and see yon. I am your brother, you know, Blld-well, hnw are you getting along, I anyway?' Yes, continued the Eastern man, "they are a trifle peculiar, but after you gei in with them you find them very sociable."

AN ECONOMICAL WEDDING. "That's all stuff!" remarked a well-known American physician to a journalish the other day, as he threw down a paper containing an account of a runaway match in which the daughter of a local politician figured as the heroine. What's all stuff?" asked the reporter, on the look-out for a possible item. Whv this runaway match which you have just published. That girl's father is a sharp man, and this is one of the sharpest) tricks he has ever played since I knew him. The elope- ment was all a sham. It's as simple as can be. The girl's fattterie one of the best, known men in this section of the town, and is a politician besides. He has necessarily a large acouaint- ance with the element who are always expecting him to stand treat upon the slightest pretext, and, what with this and the wedding festivities, supper, and other etceteras, his daughter's mar. riage, if solemnised in the ordinary manner, I y would have cost him a great deal of n.Miey. An elopement saved all this, so he just opposed hie daughter's wish strongly enough bo give pre. text for the two to run over to Jefiersou, where the expenses of the wedding, all told, did not amount to more that tive or ten dollars. There were no fine dresses, flowers, gifts, or anything of that sort, and when they returned home they had a chance to go to housekeeping quietly and, unostentatiously. It was a shrewd plan, aud g, sensible one for all parties concerned.

'SHORT AND SWEET. Why, you see, when my man came eourtin' me," said Mre. Dobson, I hadn b the least thought of wliab he was after—not L Jobie came to onr house one night after dark, an I rapped nt the door. I opened it, and sure enough, there stood Jobie right before my face and eyes. Come in," sez I, "and take a cheer." No, Lizzie," sez lie, "I've come on an arrant), and I always do my arrants fnst." But yon. had better come in and take a cheer, Mr. I No, I can't. The facb is, Lizzie, I've come on t his eourtin' business. My wife s been dead these three weeks, and everything's goitig to, rack and ruin righb straight along. Now, Lizzie, ef you've amind to hev me, an' take care of my house an' my children, and my things, tell me, and I'll come in and take a cheer; if not, I'll get someone else tn." "Why, I was akeered, and said, 'If you hev come 0" this eourtin' business, come in. I must think on't a little." "No, I can't till I know. That'. mv arrant—an' I can't sit down till my arrant e done.' "'I should like to think on t a day or two.' "'No, you needn't, Lizzie.' "'Well, Jobie, if I must I intist-po here's to yon, then" So Mr. W. came in. Then he went after the equire, an' he married us right off, an' I went home wit.h Jobie that very nipht. I tell yon what it it, these long courtin's don't amount to nothing at all. J uet as well do it in a hurry."

THE WRONG BOOK. A bit of a boy who had a bank book in his hand seemed greatly worried as he had a seat on a window-sill in the postoffice corridor yet* terday, and a gentleman made inquiry: "Are you trying to figure up the interest, sonny?" "No, sir. What worries me is that I must have brought down the wrong book. This ie the one I started with ten cents, and mam altered the figgers to 10,000 dols. to show the neighbours."

"THE WRONG SORT. "Boy" called a man with a clothes-wringer under his arm, as he looked over tite gabe "wilt that dog bite ? Yes, he'll go for some folks like smoke." I guess he won't bite me, for I'm a col. lector." Say, don't you dare come in hereIi you was an agent you'd be all righf;, but be'. been taught t<> down a collector on sight.

The great object of tife is not to seek oftgg fWfe uloature. tfet to do oar duty. y O f.t ia