The Pontypridd Chronicle and Workman's News

DEATH OE A WELSH CENTEN- AIHAN. We have to announce the death of MaryEvans, better known as "Paty Caban," who passed peace. fully away at Cilycwm on Sunday morning at the old ripe age of 102 years. Deceaeed was remark- able for her wonderful health aud vigour almost to the time-of her death. She leaved two children, a son and daughter, whase ages are 70 and 67 respectively. Deceased had been an invaterate smoker for 30 years.

DEATH OF A MRMBER OF THE GLAMORGAN COUNTY COUNCIL. A vacancy is created in the Glamorgan County Council by tbe death of Mr John Jenkins, who represented the Town Ward of the parish of Merthyr Tydfil.

YSTRADYFODWG LOCAL BO RD. The fortnightly meeting of the above Board was 'held on Friday afternoon, at the Public Offices, Pentre, when there were present—Messrs W. Lax, E. Williams, D. W. Davies, J.P., E. W. Lewis, T." Griffiths, and M. Llewellyn; with Mr W. H. Morgan, clerk; Mr S. Ridge, deputy clerk; and Mr J. W. Jones, surveyor. Mr W. Lax was voted to the chair. APPLICATION FBOIL THE SCHOOL BOARD. The Clerk read a letter from the Ystradyfodwg School Board asking for the use of the strong room of the Board at the Public Offices fl r the storage of documents, &c. The board considered their office accommodation at present to be some- what small. The Clerk was of opinioR that the board should not grant the joint use of their strong room, be- cause two persons could not keep the keys be- sides, the papers were increasing annually, and the room was not too large for their own pur- poses. The board, after some conversation, decided to to inspect the room, and on their return, Mr T. Griffiths moved that the school board be allowed the use of the committee room, and also the use of a room downstairs used by the relieving officer, subject to its being used by him once a week but in the strong room there was no available space for papers except those of the local board. Mr M. Llewellyn seconded, and the resolution was agreed to. THE BOARD CALLED TO ACCOUNT. A letter was read from Mr John Lloyd, secre- tary of the Porth Ratepayers' Protection Associa- tion, asking for an explanation with regard to the contract recently granted for carrying out certain improvement works at Porth. The association wished to know, in the face of certain rumours that were about, why the lowest tender had not been accepted. The Chairman explained that the price was considered to be so low that the work could not be carried out from the money. The Surveyor's estimate was considerably higher. At the same time he did not know whether the board should give explanations of their conduct in this way. Mr E. Williams said they must in future give the contract to the lowest tender if the backers were good. The Surveyor, in reply to the chairman, was of opinion that the work could not have been done at the price quoted in the last tender. Mr T. Griffiths said the Porth people had been investigating the matter, and Mr Elliott, the man who had tendered so low, has prepared to do the work for the money. It wasthen agreed to reply to the letter stating that the board considered that what had been done was in the best interests of the ratepayers. THE FEVER HOSPITAL. Letters were read, in reply to communications from the clerk, from the Swansea, Merthyr, and uther local boards with regard to the arrange- ments for conducting fever hospitals. The Chairman asked if the board was to pay for the removal of the patients to the hospital. The Clerk replied that the patients themselves, if able to pay, were liable for the costs of re- moval. The Chairman We had to pay our men extra for taking the small pox patient to the hos- pital. Mr E. Williams It will be better for us to pay this, because by removing the patient to the hospital, the spread of the disease was pre- vented. On the motion of Mr M. Llewellyn, seconded by Mr E. Williams, it was resolved that the medi- cal officer be supplied with an order book, and that he should give an order for all supplies re- quired for the hospital, all bills to the board to be accompanied by such order. KAKDY BRIDGE AND LIGHTS QUESTIONS. Three letters were ve-u. i from Mr Griffith Thomas, colliery manager, Mardy, with regard to the necessity for having a bridge erected over the river at Mardy, in accordance with the promise made by the board some time ago and also to have a road made from the railway station to the village. The new railway bridge stood on the site of the old parish road leading through the river to Aberdare, consequently blocking the previous passage. The manner in which men and animals were now crossing thereat was, he wrote, open to serious accidents. The inhabitants, therefore, wished to urge the board to begin the bridge and road at once, so as to be r, ady for use when the Mardy Station was completed. Mr Thomas also proceeded to refer to the interview he had with the board at its previous meeting, in company with a deputation of gentlemen from Mardv. He {jwelt in strong terms upon the conduct of the thiirman on that occasion. In the face of the chairman's persistency that he knew everything about the matter they had then in hand, he (Mr Thomas) thought it inadvisable and unwise to expatiate any more in the presence of such an omniscient being. He had never before been so discourteously prevented from placing the matter before the board as he had been by the chairman on that occasion. It was his belief that the chairman's iterations spent three times the time that would have been taken by the few words which he (Mr Thomas) would have suoken. The inhabitants of Mardy were determined to thoroughly ventilate this matter through the press, so as to place all members in full possession of the facts. Mr Thomas proceeded to refer to the previous conduct of the board in the matter, and also to the judiciousness, or otherwise, of erecting lamps between Tylorstown and Ferndale, Trealaw and Porth, and the Partridge Hotel and Llwynpia, 1 and refusing to place any between Ferndale and Mardy. These facts were too stubborn to be set aside by the chairman when they did not suit him. With regard to a remark made by Mr J. Davies, 1 ( (Porth Hotel) at the board in October last, that the lamps between Mardy and Ferndale were not wantec1, Mr Thomas wrote that Mr Davies ought to understand that the erection of public lamps would be a knife which could cut both ways. If, when the road would be lighted, it may happen too frequently that some of the thirsty Mardyites would take a walk to Ferndale, and quench their thirst there, would not the same thing happen to the thirsty Ferndalian, who would wish to change his quarters for the night ? If the public lights were placed on the Trealaw Road under general .instructions, why not place them on the Mardy road under general instructions ? The inhabit- ants of Mardy were determined to agitate until they obtained satisfaction from the Board in the matter. Mr E. Williams,refering to the bridge question, said that the arrangement for its erection was between the two parishes of Aberdare and Ystrad- yfodwg. The Chairman Most of the letter refers to the chairman, and the board has nothing to say. The Clerk explained the difference between general instructions and specific instructions. General instructions were not given by the board. The Chairman said Mardy itself was lighted, but not 1,900 yards of road leading thereto. Mr E. W. Lewis Are we in order in dis-. cussing this matter in the face of the resolution passed at the last meeting ? The Clerk replied that notice of motion must be given to rescind the previous resolution. Mr Lewis, after a few further remarks, gave notice to move at the next meeting that the re- solution be rescinded, and that the matter be again considered. THE BOARD AND THE TRAMWAY COMPANY. The Clerk read a letter from the Board of Trade offering to send down a referee to make enquiries into the solvency or otherwise of the Pontypridd and Rhondda Tramway Companies, provided the board was prepared to pay the expenses of such referee. The Clerk did not think the board could obtain an interim injunction against (the company, and if they did they would have to undertake to pay the consequent expenses and damages for loss sustained by the company for suspension. His partner, Mr Rhys, however, took the contrary view, and was of opinion that the board could obtain an interim injunction. If they decided upon obtaining the services of a referee, then, in six months, if the roads were not kept in a proper state of repair, the board would have the right to take Tit) the nUs. The Board felt that it was advisable to accept the offer of the Board of Trade, and on the motion of Mr T. Griffiths, seconded by the Chairman, it was unanimously resolved to secure the services of a referee. MEDICAL REPORT. The Medical Officer (Dr J. R. James) read his report for the month of February, showing the number of deaths tb be 134,and that of births 21.), (113 being females, and 102 males.) The death rate was 15 per 1,000 per annum, and the birth rate 24. The mortality returns showed 8G to have been children under five years of age, and the cause of death in 49 cases was bronchitis. There had been two deaths from measles and scarlet fever during the month. Dr James also remarked that the cause of measles spreading in Treorkv was through friends visiting friends in infected houses, and not like an ordinary epi- demic going with the wind. The Clerk said the medical officer's annual report just issued showed that the death rate of the district compared favourably with that of other districts. Dr James It compares favourably also with the general death rate. FINANCE. Mr T. Griffiths, as chairman of the finance com- mittee, asked for an explanation with regard to one or two items for scavenging work in the iblls submitted for payment. The Surveyor replied to the satisfaction of the committee. The Clerk reported that the balance in hand at the bank, after paying bills to the extent of E2291 10s that day, would be E7900 12s 3d. The collector's report showed that £ 27G7 2s 7d had been received during the past month. On the motion of Mr Lewis, seconded by Mr D. W. Davies, the finance committee's report was agreed too. INSPECTORS' BEPOBT. The Surveyor read the monthly reports of the sanitary inspectors. In the No 1 district there had been two fresh oases of scarlet fever, one of which proved fatal. This was an increase of one as compared with the previous month. There was no case of typhoid but at Treorky there a few slight cases of measles, which were, however, decreasing at Pentre. In the No 2 district, there were three fresh cases of scarlet fever at Ystrad, one case provifig fatal. The district was free from typhoid fever, and the small pox patient at the hospital had thoroughly recovered, and had left the hospital, the place having been afterwards fumugated. The inspector for the No 3 district asked for instructions with regard to the the muddy state of the tramway. The Clerk suggested that they should leave the roads as they were until the Board of Trade commissioner had seen the roads. They might afterwards do the scraping. Mr Griffiths should like that gentleman to have the best possible view of the roads. (Laughter.) GOOD NEWS FOR THE DRAPERS. The Inspector for No 3 distsict drew attention to the necessity of erecting roof troughings and down pipes in connection with certain houses. He had received complaints from ladies that their dresses were soiled by the eaves-droppings damag- ing their skirts. (Laughter.) I:> Mr T. Griffiths said this was good news for the drapers. (Renewed laughter.) Mr E. W. Lewis said there was a general com- plaint from all parts of the district. It was resolved to issue general instructions in the matter. THE BRIDGE AT MARDY. The Surveyor reported that he had prepared an estimate with regard to the erection of the bridge at Mardv. The Clerk recommended'the board to carry out their portion of the bridge themselves, leaving the other half of the bridge and the approaches there- to to the Aberdare board. He also suggested that separate contracts be entered into for the joint work, so that the board would only have its due share to pay. The Board agreed with the views of the clerk. Mr W. H. Mathias suggested that the contractor 119 should supply the girders and timber work. On the motion of Mr E. W. Lewis, seconded by Mr M. Llewellyn, a resolution embracing the sug- gestion of the clerk and that of Mr Mathias was agreed to. STREET IMPROVEMENTS AT FERNDALE. A letter was read from Messrs D. Davis and Sons, Ferndale, offering to grant the board an easement of land to the extent of 13fb. for public improvements near the Assembly Hall, Fern- dale. Mr T. Griffiths moved, Mr W. H. Mathias seconded, and it was carried, that the offer be accepted, and that plans and tenders be obtained f the carrying out of the same. On the suggestion of the Surveyor, it was re- solved to accept the offer of a piece of land for -Ho 10s for widening the road near Trerhondda Chapel, Ferndale. THE STATE OF THE ROADS. Mr W. H. Mathias drew attention to the muddy condition of the road between Porth and Ynyshir. The nuisance was aggravated by the fact that there were no pavements in that neighbourhood. He should like to see the inspector of nuisances visiting the whole of the district at least once a week. The Chairman said the state of the road was very bad. Mr T. Griffiths The worst place in the dis- trict is between Porth and CNmmer. (Laughter.) Mr D. W. Davies They are quite as bad in the middle of the district. (Renewed laughter.) Mr Griffiths said the Surveyor should instruct the inspectors to see to the matter. He also drew attention to the board's promise to extend the pavement system to the lower part of the parish. The ratepayers in the lower part should have the same privileges, he thought, as those of the upper part. From Treherbert to Trealaw pavement had been made, but none on tne other side. The arrangement was to commence at both sides simultaneously, and meet in the centre. He should like to know if the surveyor had prepared plans for the lower part. The Surveyor I am prepared to do so. Mr W. H. Mathias But Mr Griffiths asks if you have done so. The Surveyor No, I have not. lr. Davies said the road from Llwyn- pia Station to Pandy Square was also very bad, there being no convenience whatever in the shape of pavements. Mr Griffiths: You have much to be thankful for there though. The Surveyor explained that the delay had bet n occasioned by the absence from home of Mr Mor- gan, Tvnycymmer. Mr Griffiths then moved that the Surveyor be instructed to proceed with the street improve- ments in ordinary cases. < Mr D. W. Davies asked if the widening and paving of the road between Llwynpia Station and Pandy had been entirely abandoned. Nothing had been done in the matter for a long time. It was very dangerous as at present. The Clerk said Mr Davies had better move that the road be widened. Mr Griffiths It is quite different there. My motion is to proceed with the pavements already decided upon by the board. The Chairman asked if Mr Griffiths was in order in bringing forward his motion without giving notice. Mr Griffiths said notice was not given in previ- ous he was in order, and he would move that pavements be made from Aerw bridge to the upper part of Porth. After a few further remarks, Mr Griffiths was udderstood to give notice to move his resolution at the next meeting. Mr D. W. Davies gave notice of motion in reference to the Llwynpia Road. It was explained that there were difficulties in the way in this matter. The board could have land for widening the road on the upper side for 2300, while for the lower side they would have to pay £ 1,400. MISCELLANEOUS. On the motion of the Chairman, seconded by Mr Griffiths, it was resolved to have 200 copies of the board's byr laws printed. Mr Mathias moved, Mr Griffiths seconded, and it was agreed that the Sanitary inspector be requested to visit the whole of the main roads of the district once a week, and that entries of the dates and other particulars be made in the'r re- ports to the board.

Rhondda Police Court. Monday.—Before the Stipendiary, and other magistrates. DKUNK AND RIOTOUS AT Fi.,R'.gDALF, John Bryant was charged by P.G. Howpn with bwiiij? drunk on the 2nd inst.-Fitied 5«. John Hughes was charged by P.O. Francis with being drunk in High-street.— Fin.d r)-1. A TUBBULENT FFLL)W AT TON.—Miles Morgan was summoned by P.C. Richards with making a dis- turbance at the Windsor iiotel. He struck a man.- Fined 10s. DRUNK AT MARDY.—Charles Turner was charged by A.S. Llewellyn with being drunk on Sunday, 3rd inst.-Fined 10s. THE SUNDAY CLOSING ACT AT PORTH.-Henry Hill, William Morgan, and Thomas Davies were charged with prstending to be travellers on the 10th instani. P.O. Stacey was in the Colliers' Arms, Porth, when the three men came in, and called for a quart of beer, which they had. The told the officer they were from Clydach Vale, whereas they were from Yriyshir.— Fined 158 each. DRUNK AT PORTH.-Thowas Davies and John Powell were charged by P.C. Bowen with being drunk at Porth on Sunday afternoon. They had come by break, and refused to pay their fare. They were locked up for the night.-A.S. Llewellyn corrobo- rated.-Davies, who had a bottle of rum in his pocket, was fined 5s, but Powell was discharged. SUNDAY CIOSING ACT AT TREALAW. William Jenkins was charged with falsely representing him- self to be a traveller.—A.S. Llewellyn said on Sunday he found defendant in the Colliers' Arms, Dinas, in the taproom. He said he came from Cowbridge. Afterwards he gave two other wrong addresses. He slept at Trealaw. He was locked up all night.- Fined 15s. BLACK EYES AT BLAENCWM.—Richard Owen and William Humphries were charged with assaulting John Lewis. Complainant said as he was on his way home on Saturday night he met a mau in work- ing clothes. It was Owen who knocked his hat off, and beat him, giving him two black eyes. He tried to defend himself. David Lewis came to his assistance, and Humphries struck him.—David Lewis, son-in-law of complainant, said Humphries struck him a blow in the eye.—His Worship safiino evidence was given implicating Humphries in the assault on John Lewis, so he would be discharged. -Owen was fined 20s,or 14 days! ASSAULT At PEN YGRAIG.-ED ward Murphy was charged with assaulting Thomas Howells.—Com- plainant said on the 4th March he was going to the post office at Penygraig,and he saw defendant squeeze a little boy. Told him to let go. Defendant then wanted to fight him. Refused. He said he would make him. Told him he never had fought. Defendant then laid hold of him by the nsck, and struck him on the left eye.-Fiued 14s.

SAVAGE ASSAULT ON THE POLICE AT PENTRE. STRIKING CONSTABLES WITH A HAMMER AND POKER. HE DREW HIS STAFF IN SELF- DEFENCE. At the Rhondda Police Conrt, on Monday, William George was charged with assaulting the police. P.C. Allen said the police were called to defendant, who was making a row in Llewellyn-street. He and P.C. Reed went and tried to get him home. Defen- dant pulled P.C. Allen down some steps. They took him to his house, and be refused to go in at the dooi, but went.through che window as he bad got out. As soon as he was in he seized a hammer, and leaning out of the wiudow struck P.C. Allen with it on the stomach and on the leg. P.C. Reed wrested the hammer trom him. He went to the fireplace, atd seized the poker, and came to the door knocking it wilh the poker. P.C. Allen opened the door, and drew his staff in self-defence. Defendant broke the staff with the poker. P.C. Allen closed with him, aAid threw him. P.C. Reed got the poker from him. Took him to the police station. On thr- ww be kuocked P.C. Keed several times uti tiio 1^. With the assistance of onlookers he was locked up. Fined 40s, or a month. No MOKE DEAF.-Nicbolson's Patented Artificial Ear Drams care Deafness and Noises in the Head in all stages. 132 page Illustrated Book, with full des- cription. free.—Address J. H. Nicholson, 21, Bedford Square, Lcndon, W-C. =============-

THE RECENT BURGLARY AT CAERPHILLY. At Caerphilly Police-court on Monday (before Messrs. John Llewellyn and Joseph Evans) William viosf, of Cardiff, was brought up on remand, and charged with being concerned in the burglary which was committed on the premises of Mr Oliver E. Woods, jeweller, Caerphilly, on the 28th of February. The Bench committed the prisoner to the ensuing assizes. It is supposed that there are four others concerned in the affair. WANTED, LADIES WHO CAN KNIT, DO ty EMBROIDERY, CREWELS, Ac., to send their Name and Address to the Providence Mills Spinning Co., Bradford, when they will receive Gratis, Post Free, a splendid set of patterns of WOOLS & SILKS, and particulars showing the" great saving (3d. in the Shilling, in some cases more) by dealing Direct with the Spiuners.-Meution this paper.

GREAT WESTERN COLLIERY COM- PANY (LIMITED). GENERAL MEETING. The eieventh ordinary general meeting of share- holders in the Gr--t Western Colliery Company (Limfted) was held oid Thursday at the Exchange, Bristol, under the presidency of Mr Joseph Wetbered, chairman of directors. The report stated that the output of of coal for the year was 387,230 tons, a decrease from the previous year of 14,339 tons. The deepening of two Rhoadda Valley pits referred to last year had been completed, and preparations were being made to materially increase the output. The remaining old coka ovens nad been re-plased by 50 new Coppee ovens and a new muchine for washing and grinding small coal sent to the coke ovens waa being erected. After payment on the 1st of Jaauary last of the half- year's dividend on preference shares of Class "A," ttere remained an unappropriated balance of iM,048 5s Id., oat of whioh the directors recom mended a dividend on April I of 5a. per share upon the fully paid ordinary shares of class "B," and of 2s. 9d. per share on the new "B" shares fcr I the half-year ending December laat. That. would leave a balance of .£296 4a. 4j, to be carried to the sinking fund for paying off loan. and debentures.— The report was adopted. —————————————— i THE JUBILEE TEAR Is already, and yet will be, celebrated by the cure of hundreds of thousands of poor sufferers from various Blood, Skin, and Nerve diseases, which are moat mar- vellously affected by the use of the world's renowned re Inly, viz:—Hiijhes' Bloort Pillg.

PONTYPRIDD BOARD OF GUARDIANS. ELECTION OF RELIEVING AND VACCI- NATION OFFICERS. THE CHAIRMAN STRONGLY CONDEMNS PLURALITIES. The fortnightly meeting of the above Board was held on Wednesday last, at the Union Work- house. Pontvnridd. when there were present :— Rev D. W. Williams, M.A., (chairman), Mr' Josiah Lewis (vice-chairman), Rev W. Morris, Messrs A. Cule, E. H. Davies, W. Morgan, D. John, W. Pritchard, D. Lewis, Isaac Morgan, W. R. Beith, D. Thomas, P. J. Dunn, E. John, E. Williams, J. Richards, J. J.Evans.W.W.Phillips, D. Fenwick, E. Edwards, E. Evans, G. Thomas, T. Morgan (Pontypridd), T. Morgan (Tonteg), P. Phillips, T. R. Thomas, W. L. Herbert, D. Jones, Dr. C. J. Jones, H. Anthony, W. Davies, E. Jen- kins, and D. Llewellyn. THE PAYMENT OF VACINATION OFFICER. Mr Pritchard proposed that in future the vac- cination officer for Ystradyfodwg parish be paid 6d each case instead of lOd. Mr E. Evans seconded, and the motion was carried unanimously. PROPOSED TRAMP WARD. Mr W. L. Herbert, in moving a resolution as to the proposed tramp ward, said that he had been informed that a plan had been prepared some 12 months ago for a tramp ward, and his motion was that two guardians from each parish be de- puted to see this plan, and report at the next meeting. Mr D. Jones seconded, and it was carried. THE CLERK'S SALARY. The Clerk said the next matter was that of Mr Beith re the consideration of the clerk's salary. Mr Beith said he wished to postpone his motion for a fortnight. COTTAGE HOIIE. The visiting committee reported that they had inspected four sites for the proposed cottage home for indoor pauper children, the Workhouse having been found to be inadequate to accommodate the large and increasing number of inmates. The committee recommended that enquiries be made as to the price at which the sites could be ob- tained. The Chairman said he had a conversation with the pwner of Duffryn Dowlais, who was willing to sell four acres to the board on very favourable terms. He thought they could not do better than adopt it. Mr Pritchard proposed that the visiting com- mittee't report be adopted, and that the thanks of the board be accorded them for it also, that the clerk be instructed to communicate with the owners of each of the sites indicated with refer- ence to the price. Mr Herbert seconded. Mr T. Morgan (Pontypridd) proposed as an amendment that they settle the question that day, and close with Mr Howell if they could make arrangements with regard to the Duffryn Dowlais. Mr T. Morgan (Tonteg) seconded. Mr P. J. Dunn thought the memorial from the inhabitants of Llantwitfardre should be read. Mr Pritchard objected to that. For the amendment there voted six for the original resolution, the remainder of the members present. The original motion was, therefore, declared carried by a large majority. THE OFFICERS' RATIONS. Mr Dunn presented the report of the visiting committee with regard to the proposal to increase the rations of officers of the Workhouse. Mr A. Cule said it would cost very little extra, and it would be the means of making the officers more comfortable. The Master said he had to pay about 5/- a week out of his own pocket in order to make things comfortable. On the motion of the Rev W. Morris, seconded by the Vice-chairman,the report and recommenda- tion were agreed to. APPOINTMENT O." RELIEVING OFFICER AND COLLECTOR. The Clerk said they ought to take into consider- ation the question of inquiry officer. There was nothing said about it in the advertisement, but perhaps it would be well now to consider what to do in the matter. Mr W. Morgan proposed, and Mr Josiah Lewis seconded, that the appointment for the No. 4 dis- trict be proceeded with. Agreed to. The Clerk said there were sixteen applications. Mr Godfrey Clark asked if a committee had gone through the applications, because he did not know the applicants, and unless some sort of re- commendation would come before them very likely many members would not know the best man. At the same time, he did not want to postpone the matter. Mr E. Edwards moved that it be referred to a committee of the guardians of Eglwysilan and Llanfabon. Mr A. Cule seconded. Mr J. Richards If it is a matter for the whole of the guardians it should come before the Board. Mr E. Edwards: Refer it to a committee to select a certain number. The Clerk said if the guardians were going to refer the appointment to a committee, he wanted them to remember that the officer who now dis- charged the duties wished to give up the office, and the appointment must be made to-day unless he or somebody else could be prevailed upon to undertake the work. Mr D. Jones Why cannot we go on with this the same as others ? Mr A. Cule said it was a matter of more im- portance for Eglwysilan and Llanfabon than any- where else. Mr E. Edwards said they could go into another room to deal with the matter, and come back and report. The Clerk said they must remember it was a union appointment and not a parish appointment, Mr T. Morgan (Pontypridd) thought it would be contrary to the spirit of the poor law to hand it over to one parish. They had not come to home rule yet. (Laughter.) The Vice-chairman proposed that the names of those who might be nominated should be sub- mitted in the usual way. He thought that would put the matter in a practical form. Mr W. Morgan seconded, and it was carried. Seven were nominated, and on the names of the guardians being called out,.Mr Thomas Jones was the cancidate who secured the largest number of votes, he obtaining seventeen. The Chairman heartily complimented Mr Jones on his appointment, and said he believed he would make an excellent officer. He had discharged the duties temporarily on behalf of the late Mr William Davies, and had been acting as collector under Mr T. Thomas, Tynywern, for about six years. On the motion of Mr Anthony, seconded by Mr Pritchard, it was decided to offer Mr Jones £5 a year for his services as inquiry officer. This was agreed to, and Mr Jones accepted it. THE CHAIRMAN ON PLURAL APPOINTMENTS. The Chairman, in the course of a strong speech upon pluralities, said that officers under this board were paid as much as £ 360 or jMQtta year for the joint work of several offices which they held, and they paid to clerks and others who did the work for small salaries of about 22/6 a week. He hoped this would be borne in mind by the members at the board, and that in future plural appointments be avoided as much as possible, for he believed that the work would be better done if two or three officers had, say, 1!120 each, rather than one who obtained X360 for doing the work of three. There were only two applicants for the post of vaccination officer for Ystradyfodwg, namely, Mr R. S. Griffiths, of Blaenclydach, and Mr George Williams, of Pentre, (who had been assisting the late Mr George Davies.) Mr Edward Jenkins proposed the appointment of Mr Griffiths. Mr Pritchard seconded. Mr E. H. Davies proposed Mr George Williams. Mr D. Llewellyn seconded. The Chairman then put the matter to the vote by show of hands, and declared that 11 voted for Griffiths and 16 for Williams. Mr Pritchard said there were not better friends in the room than Dr Jones and himself, but he must object to Dr Jones voting, as that gentleman was an officer of the board. The Clerk said that there would still be a majority. The Vice-chairman said several members at his end of the room were dissatisfied with the result of the voting. Mr E. Jenkins said that they were not at all satisfied. The Chairman thought he had put it in very plain English. The Vice-chairman said Mr J. J. Evans thought he had made a mistake in voting, and voted for the wrong man. The Chairman said that would only be one, and usually Mr Evans could hear very well and understand English very well, rather better than Welsh. (Laughter.) Mr E. Jenkins did not see why this should not have been voted upon as in the previous appoint- ment by calling out the list of names. Mr D. Jones said they had gone according to the usual rule. Mr D. John agreed. Mr T. Morgan thought the best plan would be to have another vote on it. Mr J. Richards concurred, and proposed that that be done. Mr T. Morgan seconded. This was agreed to and complied with, when the chairman declared the result to be the same again, sixteen to thirteen. Mr Pritchard again objected to the vote of Dr. Jones. Mr E. Jenkins said he had been objected to on another occasion. He proposed that the voting should be gone on with again. (Laughter.) Mr J. Richards seconded. The Chairman It is not often I get tired of sitting in this chair, but to day I must confess I am tired. Mr Pritchard Hear, hear. We have been beaten. Let us give in with good grace. Mr E. Jenkins We are not satisfied with it. The matter was not, however, put to the vote again.

NOTICE OF* MOTION. As the members were separating, the Rev. W. Morris gave notice of motion that in all future vacancies occurring under this ooard, fio person holding more than one appointment be selected, thus giving effect to the chairman's speech upon pluralities.

RHONDDA JOTTINGS. (BY RAMBLER.) Gelli-road and the surrounding vicinities are thickly populated. To meet the wish of many of the residents a Welsh Sunday School has just been established in the centre of the neighbourhood. I am told the movement is well attended by children and adults. # I could mention other places where this move- ment would receive a welcome response. Per- haps this hint will suffice to convince those I am referring to in making themselves more useful in enhancing the work of Christianity. I be- lieve the Sunday School should above all institu- tions be foremost in our estimation, for its in- fluence concerns the welfare of the rising genera- tion most materially. Hence it behoves us to assist in doing our best to spread this excellent cause. The appointment of Mr David Evans, Bod- ringallt House, is another valuable acquisition to the magisterial bench. That gentlemen has been chairman of the Ystradyfodwg School Board for many years, and is now the chairman of the Ystradyfodwg Local Board. He has filled the important capacity of mining engineer under Messrs D. Davis and Sons for a large number of years. Mr Evans has discharged other duties of trust with the same tact and skill. When the news of his choice to the honourable position be- came known it was hailed with the warmest ap- proval generally. The Taff Vale Railway Company have kindly consented to erect a new station at Ystrad Rhon- dda, under the understanding that the approaches and land be available for the purpose indicated. The committee and others interested in this good movement are engaged in getting the necessary arrangements completed as soon as possible. The new station at this populous locality will be a great boon to the inhabitants and many others. Messrs D. Davis and Sons are entitled to a hearty eulogium for granting their workmen 7 per cent. increase in their wages. I must say the colliers also deserve a word of praise for adopting such a sensible course. I am sure the employers of labour would never turn a deaf ear to a reason- able petition. In my opinion the harmony that exists between the said owners and their em- ployers should be carefully emulated by all alike. » When a boy I was engaged at a certain colliery, and the workmen there had selected a committee from their midst, and when any dispute was raised, the matter was left for them to decide with the manager, and on some occasions with the proprietors. I remember quite well the joy it afforded me to see the colliery owners, because I was sensible that through their praiseworthy exertions I was offered an opportunity to earn my livelihood jn an honest way. When ever the interview would take place, good result to both parties would be sure to accrue. From what I glean the same system is carried on between Messrs D. Davis and Sons and their workmen. Indeed, what could be more encouraging than to find such good feeling displayed in this particular case ? 0*0 I feel that in most instances a repellant feeling exists between colliery owners and their em- ployers. As an old workman my humble advice is to exercise every possible care before arriving at rash conclusions, and to bring together, if possible, brotherly union and good will, and keep aloof at all times from hostile feelings. I am very glad that the workmen of Ferndale and Bodring- allt Collieries have set before the country a most worthy example. 0*0 A new bridge is now being erected at Pont- rhondda, and the same is a capstal structure. The public generally will find it a great boon. A wall letter box would be very serviceable at or near Primrose-hill cottage, Ystrad. The pos- tal authorities have been communicated with upon the matter, and it is to be hoped the peti- tioners will receive a reply in the affirmative.

FATAL ACCIDENT IN THE RHONDDA. On Saturday, about 2.30 p.m., a door-boy, 14 years of age, named John Edward JOLes, living at 15, Ystrad-road. Heolfaob, Pentre, met with a f"tal accident at the Eastern pit of the Ocean Collieries. A journey of empty trams ran amQo, knocking d )wn a pair of timbers, which fell on the head of the lad, killing him oa the spot.

HOME SWEET HOME.—The sweetest hooses in this town are those where Hudson's Soap is iu daily use. It leaves no smell. Is qniok, safe, ana sweet. Solendid for washing Flannels and Woollen I Underclothing. Sold everywhere. For Family use in Dozens and Half-Dozens, also in 141b. and 231b. boxes:

AntoineClesse, the Belgian popular-songwriter, has died ab MOils, aged seventy-three. Lady Romilly is lying seriously ill at Oulto, Park, Sir Philip Egerton's seat in Cheshire. Thefoundatiou atone of the Fox Memorial Church at Stockbridge has been laid. Mr. Edward Wilberforce, barrister-at-law, baa. been appointed a Master of the Supreme Court. The Small Manor Grain Mill ab Mallow has been burnt down with a quantity of grain. Ab the Leeds Assizes, the Grand Jury threw out the bill against William Barretb, charged with the) murder and mutilation of a boy at Bradford. Lord Wol vert on has left London for the South. of France, where he will remain some considerable time, for the benelit of his health. The remains of the late Earl of Portarlingtou have been interred in the family vault at Erno Park, Queen's County. Lord Manners has signified his intention of sub- scribing £;,0U0 towards the funds of the Polytech- nic Institute for South West London. The strike among the weavers at Lille has spread to four mills, at which 400 employes demand a revision of the scale of wages. It is announced that all registered letters addressed to Prince Bismarck must bear the name of the sender on the back, otherwise they will nob be received. Mr. Lionel Brough has under consideration art offer made him by Mr. L. Searelle of a six months" engagement to visit the principal towns of South Africa.. With regard to the accusation of treachery against the Maharajah of Cashmere, it is declared that the latter is alinosb imbecile and wholly im. the power of his Ministers. Joseph Gratton (20), no occupation, has been sentenced to fourteen days' imprisonment foe stealing turnips belonging to William Hardy, ab Norton Green. The body of the man who shot himself at White- hall, London, has been identified by his brother as that of Richard Grose, of Prat^-atreeb, Camieu Town. Six thousand weavers, comprising nearly the entire number of employe's ot 5U mills at Fall liiver, Massachusetts, have struck work for an advance of wages. The Marquis of Lansdowne, says a telegram from Calculi a, leaves here on the 21111 prox. for Siuda. His Excellency will make a halt at Allaha- bad aud Luck now. A report, has been received at Cheyenne,. Nebraska, that a party of French tourists, includ- ing two women, have been massacred at Yellow- stone Pauk by Indians. The Press Association has reason to believe tlia6 Sir E. Malet, British Ambassador at Berlin, will. represent Great Britain at the Conference about, to assemble upon Samoan affairs. A telegram from Paris says :-A telegram from Havre reports that a rumour is in circulation there of an outbreak of yellow fever at Santos, in Brazil," and of a consequent panic and emigration. Sergeant Armour, of the City of London Police, has been appointed superintendent of the Windsor Police, in the room of Superintendent Hayes, wha has resigned. At Blackwood, Mon., thirty-two tramps have been sent to prison for fourLeen days for sleeping at the coke-ovens. Several men sleeping in similar situations have recently been smothered. Mr. H. B. ContY, Mr. Weedon Grossmith, and; Miss Norreys will be in the ca-fc of Mr. A. H. Jones's nowcomedy Matt Rudocke," to be broughb- outi at the Havmarket on Easter Monday. Madame Tussaud and Sons have added to their exhibition a portrait-model of Richard Pigotb. He, is shown in the al titude he took when subjected to the searching cross-examination by. Sir Charles*. Russell. The students and ev-students of t.ho Royal' College of Music at Kensingbon are forming a. I tIllIsical guild, with a view to the public per-, formancu of orchestral and chamber tnllsic and tha- bringing out of new works by the members. The personal estate of the late Air. Samuel Varley, of the Old House and Varley Mills, Stauniiigley, Yorkshire, worsted spinner and manu- facturer, and of Newton Kyme Hall, haa been, proved at £ 10(1.-113. The Mayor of Windsor's furd in connection with., the Agricultural Show, which is to be held, under the piesidency of the Oneen, on the Ro) at demesne., ab midsummer, hua nviv reached uniA wij4 shortly be closed. Witnesses from Manchester are to give eviJenCtf- before the Lords'Committee on Sweating, especially with regard to tailoring. It is unlikely, however, Lllal, any of the witnesses from Lancashire will be called before t he Easter recess. Enoch Bowden (oti), engine-titter, was indicl.e,t f(ir obtaining X5 by false pretence* from John. James Parker, at Dulton, on the 11th May.-He. was an old oii'ender, and was senb to penal servi- tude for live years. Advices from Zanzibar describe the fate of bhe. German missionaries in the hands of the Arabs as- a very desperate one, inasmuch as the Gerinati, Admiral has refused to surrender his Arab pri- soners. As James Hetiry Smith (16), residing in Bingley Street, Keighley, was following his employment asj a grinder at Messrs. Watson and Whalley's works, the grindstone flew into five pieces, one of whicli struck him and killed him iustantlv. The Ameer of Afgliaiii-Litii has publicly repelled" the charge of hostile designs against Russia, declaring that the report was due to the desire of" his enemies to embroil England and the Afghani with Russia. Killg Milan goes to Vienna next week at tlia, request of the Emperor of Austria. A special Servian Euvoy is about to proceed to Yalta to arrange with the ex-Queen for a meeting between her and her son. A building which is to be used mainly as public library was opened at Middlebon the other- day. It has been erected ab a cost of about £2,000, (raised by public subscription) as a memorial or the Queen's Jubilee. The annual dinner of the Railway Benevolent}^ Institution will be held at the Hotel Metropole on Wednesday, May 8, when Mr. GeorgeJ. Armytage, chairman of the Laiicasitit-a and Yorkshire Rail- way Company, will preside. A telegram from Zurich says :-All the Russians arrested have been released, except one. The inquiry continues. There appears, however, to ba^- no doubt but that the bombs were beinfr manu- factured for Nihilistic purposes. ° The Colonial party al; Berlin professes to havo little confidence ill the W'issmann expedition and id insisting thab a strong force of J^ermau Lroops, some asking for its many as 20,000, shall be sent te). the East Coast of Africa to clear out Bushirilmct liis followers. The body of an old man, named John Bowen, lias been found on the roadside near Bridgnorth. He was on his way home from work duting the blinding snowstorm the other evening, when ha> appears to have been overcome by the intense cold> fell down, and died from expoeure. In the neighbourhood of Drutncollogher, in tha south of Ireland, two men, after attending a religious pattern," have been taken suddenly ill, aud both are dead. The cause of death is ascribed to some deleterious substance used in adulterating the whisky which the deceased drank on the occa- sion. The Duke of Westminster has promised X] 00 for five years in aid of the movemenb for founding a chair of agriculture ab the University College of North Wales. A Goveriiineiib gi-iiiit lias iii,-o beei), promised, and a large number of private doiialiolle have been received. At Portsmouth the coroner has held an inquesti relative to the death of the Rev. George Warner, aged 80, a clergyman of Lhe Established Church, who died at Southsea from injuries lie sustained by accidentally falling downstairs. A verdicb of accidental death was returned. A serious accident has occurred at Toronto on the main line of 'the Grand Trunk Railway near Lucan. Owing to one of the rails breaking, two cars of an express train ran off the line aud rolled down an embankment 2aft. high. Three of the passengers were seriously injured, bun the re- mainder escaped with a severe shaking. A return showing the number of agrarian out- rages committ.ed in Ireland for the December* quarter of last year has just been issued. There are only six cases of offences against the person re- ported to the Inspector-General, 47 offences againsb property, of which 26 were incendiary fires, 79 offences against the public peace—such as threaten- ing letters and lIoliices-alul one attempt to obstruct a railwny train. Muuster contributed 8(1 cases, Connaught 31, and Leinster and U later 14 each. w i