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LLAKTRISAKT SCHOOL BOARD.
LLAKTRISAKT SCHOOL BOARD. FIRST MEETING OF THE NEW BOARD. The first meeting of this board after the election was held on Friday, at the Parish Offices, Llan- trisant, when there were present:—Messrs J. P. Williams (the only member of the old board who had been returned), Z. A. Cooke, E. M. Phillips, A. H. Sims, M. R. Rowlands, J. P. Gibbon, O. Williams, T. John, and D. Davies; with the clerk (Mr W. John, Brynteg.) On the motion of Mr J- P. Williams, seconded oyMr E. M.Phillips, Mr W. John, the clerk, was elected chairman | jpro tern. "pro tern. ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN. Mr John having taken the chair, explained that the first business of the meeting was to elect a chairman for the ensuing three years.—Mr M. H. Rowlands proposed the election of Mr Sims, who was the highest on the poll at the election.—Mr E. M Phillips seconded.—Mr Sims thought it would be better for the board if an older man was put in the chair, for he (the speaker) knew nothing at all of the business of the board, being new to the work.—Mr J. P. Williams said if they would allow him, so long as Mr Sims had made those very wise remarks, and as there was a gentleman present who had been a member of the board before in the person of Mr Cooke, a gentleman of education, and one who was in every way qualified to perform the duties of chairman, he (Mr Williams) would take the liberty to move that Mr Cooke be chairman for the next threejyears.— Mr J. P. Gibbon seconded.—Mr E. M. Phillips moved as an amendment that Mr M R. Rowlands be chairman.—Mr Sims seconded.—Mr T. John -asked would it not be advisable that the chairman of the board be acquainted with the Welsh language. There were hundreds, if not thousands, of Welsh speaking people in this parish, and a case. might crop up when it would be necessary for the chairman of the board to be able to speak both languages.—Mr D. Davies did not exactly agree with Mr John. He did not think it was necessary that the chairman should be able to speak both languages. They would not come in -contact with people referred to except in their deliberations on the board, and in that case all understood Welsh except Mr Cooke. The fact that Mr Cooke stood so high on the poll, considering that he was returned without colliery influence,for he was not connected with a colliery, showed that he was higly respected in the parish, and he fully concurred with Mr J. P. Williams that Mr Cooke would be an admirable chairman.—Mr J. P. Williams thought he was entitled to speak in that matter, but he did not think it would be wise to "discuss the question. He would, however, remark that it would be difficult for them to say anything in Welsh that Mr Cooke did not understand. The Chairman I would not advise anybody to scold Mr Cooke in Welsh. (Laughter).—Mr Cooke: Does the person nominated vote or abstain from voting? -The Chairman I would say he would vote for himself. (Laughter and hear, hear.)-The votes were then taken, when four were found to be in favour of Mr Rowlands, and five for Mr Cooke.— The latter was, therefore declared elected.—Mr C joke then took the chair, and said he was exceed- ingly obliged to the board for the honour done him. Only a short time ago he had no intention of becoming even a member of the board, but now that he had been returned, and elected their chair- man, he would endeavour at all times to maintain the efficiency-he was almost going to say, the dignity—of the board, and he trusted that nothing personal would be introduced, for their object should be the education of the children of the parish, and although those gentlemen had lost the vote in the election of chairman, he trusted that they would be loyal to him, and assist as much as they could in carrying on the work. It had been said that very little work had been done by the last board, and that much was left to do now. He trusted, therefore, that the members of the new board would sympathise with him in the effort to do as much as possible, consistent with efficiency, without fear or favour, with the single hope of doing justice, with the simple desire of raising the character and tone of the schools. They ought as parishioners to endeavour to do that, and as far as possible to raise the moral tone of schools. He knew he was treading on delicate ground, but a high tone of morality in the schools wa, necessary, and schoolmasters, instead of showing bad example, should be called upon to set a good one, and if they did not do that their places should be exchanged. (Hear, hear.) ELECTION OF VICE-CHAIRMAN. The Chairman said the next business was to proceed with the election of vice-chairman.—Mr Rowlands proposed the election of Mr Sims, remarking that as that gentleman had refused the chairmanship, he thought he certainly ought to accept this position.—Mr D. Davies seconded.- The motion was unanimously agreed to.—Mr Sims, on taking the vice-chair, said he was sorry that h:: was not possessed of the great flow of eloquence which the chairman evidently had, but as they had elected him vice-chairman, he assured them that nothing would be wanting on his part in endeavouring to follow in the footsteps of the <chairman, and assisting, as far as he could, in carrying out the important programme laid down by the chairman in his opening speech. He thoroughly agreed with the chairman as to the necessity of maintaining a high tone of morality in the schools, and he thought that that was a matter which required looking into,for he believed that board schools were far from jwhat they ought to be in that respect. THE JOINT BOARD MEMBERSHIP. The Chairman asked who had been elected to represent that board on the Llanwonno board.— The Clerk replied that Mr H. Thomas and himself had been elected.—Th Chairman replied that, without any prejudice to Mr John, he did not see why one of the members was not elected.—The Clerk said that at one time it had been so, Mr Ishmael Williams being representative at that time, but the change was made in order to try to get people from the locality. SALARIES OF TEACHERS. I' The amount of salary paid to an assistant teacher was incidentally mentioned, and it being I said that that particular item was lower than that [ usually paid to teachers under the board, Mr Rowlands asked why such was the case. He did not consider it honest oil the part of the board to pay less to one teacher than the others.-The Chairman thought the pre-; nt scale of the board might be high. It was a matter which the whole of the board ought to go into—the question of expendi- ture, not merely the salaries, but the whole of the funds of the board.—Mr Sims said that other boards had not only given figures in their triennial report, but the inspector's reports, per- centages, and other matters of interest, whereas in the report of this board just issued, there was no information of that kind. He thought it was un- satisfactory, but in order to make these things something like understandable they ought to have things such as other boards were giving.—The Clerk said that he asked the last board before taking"tlie copy to the printer, and he supposed Mr Williams would remember, whether he should print the reports of the inspectors, and the board thought it was not necessary. J. P. Williams said they fully expected a much fuller report than they had obtained, but as to the details mentioned bv Mr Sims the board did think it would be swel- ling the book very much and unnecessary, but they left it to Mr John and Mr Lewis, but he thought there were some figures m the book about Cymmer school not exactly coriecu. The Clerk :s:1id that the explanation of that was this—the school year terminated on the 3lst-ot May,whereas the accounts were up to the 29th of September, and of course, in consequence th" reports gave the total grants for the previous year, because the grants for 1888 never came to hanu till July or August.-Mr J. P. Gibbon thoroughly agreed with the Vice-chairman as to the contents of the reports. He would like if something could be done to place the board in possession of the necessary information as to the cost per head,what "was the percentage presented for ex unination, percentage of passes, and grants per head.—The Chairman said that the fragmentary character of the report did not seem to give satisfaction, and it had been explained by the clerk that the last board thought that it was unnecessary to give the details that we now suggested. Very likely the -clerk had been guided by the feeling of the board if jf v in that matter, and that the board at that time did think it unnecessary, but he must say that it showed a want of public spirit and wantof respect to the ratepayers, and if they requested Mr John to furnish them with the figures he would be able to do so now the next board.—The Clerk: Do you require it for the last three years.-The Chair- man Yes.-The Clerk It will entail a great deal of work.—The Chairman: Work, or not, if they require it it must be done, and whether they request it to be done for three years or one year.— Mr J. P. Williams said he must defend the old board. They wanted to get the substance of the resolution passed at the Tonyrefail meeting carried out in the report.—The Chairman: Then you really do lay more blame upon the shoulders of the clerk.-The Vice-chairman: I cannot say that exactly. I must stand in support of the clerk, because if it were the wish of the board he would have carried it out. If it was only a matter of a couple of pounds, I think it ought to have been done, and I think it ought to be done still.—Mr Gibbon: I am prepared to move a resolution to the effect that we get the additional particulars.—Mr Phillips seconded, and suggested that they be pre- pared in the same way as that of Ystradyfodwg.— Mr Rowlands supported, and remarked that both the Llanwonno and Ystradyfodwg reports were much more satisfactory than their report.—After rsome further conversation, it was decided that the report need not give all the particulars for three years, but the general details would do of one year, and the percentage of passes for three years. PLACE OF MEETING TO BE CHANGED. The Chairman said, as regards the time and place of meeting, he should like to elicit the feel- ing of the Board. First of all, dealing with the time, he asked whether the first Friday in the month was the best day. For himself it was not. Tuesday or Thursday would be better.—Mr J. P. Williams proposed that the same hour and day be fixed for the next three years.—Mr Sims: Better leave that alone, for I have a motion to bring for- ward as to the place.—Mr D. Davies thought they would be too selfish in having the meetings alto- gether at Cymmer. He would be satisfied himself if the meetings were alternately held at Cymmer, although there were seven from the upper part of the district, and only two from Llantrisant.—Mr Rowlands quite agread with what Mr Davies had said.—The Vice-chairman said they had taken the words out of his mouth, but he really thought they ought to hold meetings alternately at Cymmer and Llantrisant.—The Chairman thought they should only take into consideration utility, kindness, and justice. He admitted that there were seven to two of the members from the upper part, but he hoped that they would also remember that the meetings had been held here ever since the estab- lishment of the board. The parish offices were here; the books of the board were here; and the clerk was here. To him, of course, there was a little sentiment in the matter as well, and although he could not expect the other members to feel as he did, still he hoped they would deal liberally with the two whojlived afJLlantrisant and he ap- pealed to them to confer a favour upon the two without injuring the seven by making a little extra e.fort to come to Llantrisant. If they could give more than half he would be obliged, but he hoped, at all events, that they would be generous enough to give them half.—Mr T. John was in full sym- pothy with the chairman on this question, and he might remark that he had been speaking to some of the members, and he had every confidence that they would deal liberally with them, and give Llantrisant alternate meetings. The gentlemen who came from the other parts of the parish were in better circumstances than they in Ltantrisant, for they were most of them under companies, who would not begrudge them a horse and trap to carry them to the meetings, but they in Llantrisant had no one to grant them such a boon. (Laugh- ter.)-The Chairman said it would be very pleasant in the summer time for them to come to the old town.-The Vice-chairman said it was not so much the trouble and expense, but that the whole day had to be given to it. Everyday had its work, and if they threw away a day to come to Llantri- sant thsy would have to make it up during other days of the week.—Mr J. P. Williams proposed that every other meeting be held at Cymmer on the same day and time.—Mr Gibbon quite agreed with the chairman and Mr John, and hoped the members would, at all events, fall in with the pro- posal to hold the meetings alternately here, if not altogether. He and Mr John had seen the vicar, and they could have the use of the National School at Cymmer if they wanted it, because it would be more convenient, as the board school was farther from the railway station.—Mr Rowlands wished to pay for the room, and to make it a rule that their rooms should be always charged for.—Mr Gibbon certainly did not object to that. He would himself prefer holding the meetings in their own schoolroom, because they would then be under no obligation, but at the same time the vicar had said that he would give the schoolroom at Cymmer free to the board because the board granted him the free use of their schools.—Mr Rowlands (to Mr J. P. Williams): I an surprised that you did not see that, Mr Williams.—Mr Gibbon proposed that the meetings be held in the class-room of the board school.—Mr Rowlands seconded.—The Chairman saH he was perfectly friendly with everything con- nected with the church friends, but he con- curred with Mr Gibbon and Mr Rowlands and Mr Rowland that if they could adopt their own premises they would be at home, and if they had to furnish the room it would be on their premises, instead of having it on other people's premises, which would be the case if they took the national school.—Mr J. P. Williams said he was not strong upon the question of place, but would fall in with the motion made by Mr Gibbon.—Mr D. Davies agreed, and the motion was agreed to unani- mously. THE ELECTION EXPENSES. The Clerk reported that the returning officer's bill for conducting the recent election was £ 1231/3. -Some of the items were criticised, Mr T. John being of opinion that the previous board had boen able to reduce the presiding officers' fees from two guineas to 25s.—The Clerk referred to the bill for previous election, which showed that Mr John's contention was not correct. It was also stated by the clerk that the Education Department had sent out rules as to the charges which could be made for conducting these elections; and on Mr Sims checking some of the amounts, it was found that the charges were in accordance with the circular. -The bill was, therefore, ordered to be paid. SCHOOL MANAGEMENT. Mr Gibbon said he objected to what was termed single member management of schools, and he thought it would be well to leave the control of the cleaning, lighting, and heating of the schools to the local managers, but that those managers should be a committee, and not simply members from the locality.—It was then decided that Gilfach Goch, Williamstown, and Dinas should be under the management of Messrs Phillips, e. Williams, and M. R. Rowlands. Cymmer Schools, Messrs D. Davies and Sims. Penrhiwfer, Messrs Gibbon and J. P. Williams. Beddau and Miskin, Messrs Gibbon, John, and the Chairman. [ PAYMENT FOR THE USE OF SCHOOLS. In reply to Mr Rowlands, the chairman said it had been the custom at this board to let the parishioners have the free use of the sshools for certain purposes.—Mr J. P. Williams said there was a resolution on the book that no school be let to anybody for more than six months, and if wanted for a longer period that it must be applied for again.—Mr Rowlands said he wished the schools to be paid for whenever let. Williamstown School had been let for religious services on Sun- days and week days for a long time; and Dinas School had been used by the churchpeople for over 14 years. He did not object to it at all, but pro- pose that all schools used for religious and other purposes be paid for.—Mr Sims: Do you in- clude in that the holding of concarts?—Mr Row- lands: Yes.—Mr Gibbon: Or meetings?—Mr Rowlands Yes, everything to be paid for.—Mr T. John thought that was rather hard lines. The schools were the property of the parish, and he thought the parishioners had a right to use them in a respectable way. Supposing they wanted to hold a concert in Tonyrefail for any charitable cause, he thought it would be rather hard to charge. —Mr Rowlands Everything will come to the 11 same place exactly if all have to pay.—Mr J. P. Williams: I am strongly against the principle of paying at all. I should be in favour of giving three months' notice to all religious parties that "), I are holding their meetings in our schools, that in ) future the schools shall not be given for such pur- poses, but any party in the neighbourhood asking for the loan of the schools for a concert or meeting at night, I think it would be rather hard to refuse. -Mr Rowlands: We are only adopting the same principle as other boards; of course if we come across a case where we should be lenient, we need not make the charge more than 5s.—Mr J. P. Williams I don't think it is a custom in other parishes. It may be in Ystrad.—Mr Rowlands said in such a case as he had quoted, where one party had had the use of the school for fourteen years, it was unfair to others who had had to build chapels and churches that such concessions should be made to one denomination.—Mr J. P. Williams said he was against holding religious services at all in the schools.—Mr Rowlands I am not against holding them when it is a conveni- ence, but let them pay for the use of the schools. Take that chapel of yours at Tonyrefail, it cost you £1200, and the interest, at 5 per cent. would come to dE50, and if these had not our schools they would probably have to pay the same, and why should they have it ? There is money col- lected in all our localities towards the chapels, and while others are allowed to use the schools in this way they will never build.—Mr D. Davies The place is overburdened with chapel debts really.—Mr Rowlands The ratepayersjof Llan- trisant are overburdened too.—Mr D. Davies said if they could allow the use of the schools for Sunday school classes, they must consider that they were all working for the common good.—Mr Sims thought it was rather hard to have to pay for a concert which might be held for a charitable purpose, but he thought that any religious sect which was allowed to hold services in their schools ought to pay, and would pay if it were put to them. He thought the rule should be applied, whether they were church or nonconformists, that they should pay a fair rental for the use of the rooms.—Mr Williams proposed that the matter be put down for discussion at the next meeting.— The Chairman said that all they had to to do was to act kindly and considerately. He was against Mr Rowlands in some things, but he felt that the points he had advanced were of such importance that they must be fully ventilated on some future occasion.—Mr Rowlands then gave notice of motion to bring the matter forward at the next meeting. SCHOOL ATTENDANCE. The school attendance officers (Messrs W. Davies and J. Davies) presented their reports, and several summonses were ordered to be taken out against parents who neglected to send children regularly to school. THE NEW RATE. The estimate for the cnrrent half year, pre- sented by the clerk, was £ 2,700.—The Chairman asked whether it was necessary to issue a precept at this meeting.—Mr J. Morgan, assistant over- seer, was called in, and said that it was advisable to do so as soon as possible. He could, perhaps, wait until the next meeting.—The Chairman said the rates were very high, and the ratepayers were expecting a reduction. Sevenpence in the £ was decidedly high, and if they could reduce they should do so. There was no need to demand a higher sum from the parish than was absolutely necessary. Could they defer making the precept until after they had gone' fully into the financial position of the board, so as to see if they could make any reduction ?—Mr J. P. Williams said it would scarcely do to make a small rate this half- year, and double it the next half-year.— The Chairman quite agreed that it would not do to make a 31d rate to-day,and then this day 6 months a 7d one.—Mr T. John said that the last board reduced it to 51d and then had to go up to 7d the next half-year, and it only made people grumble. -The Clerk suggested that £1,000 was absolutely necessary, but if they wanted to equalise the rate, it would be advisable to make a call for more.- Mr Gibbon proposed £ 1,500.—Mr J. P. Williams seconded.-The Chairman suggested £ 1200.—-Mr Rowlands agreed with the mover and seconder, because if they made a great reduction this half- year, and went up next half-year,people would say that they were showing off.— The Chairman moved that a f 1,200 precept be issued.—Mr J. P. Williams: If you do that you will have to make one for £ 2,000 next time.—The Vice-chairman hoped that by the next half-year they would be able to make some reduction in the expenditure.- The Chairman Yes, and raise the amount of the earnings.—Mr Rowlands was afraid it would be £2,500 next time if they only had JE1,200 now.- Mr D. Davies suggested £ 1,300.—Mr Gibbon said £ 1,500 would be only 4Jd in the £ as the rateable value had increased lately.—The Chairman's amendment was not seconded, and Mr Gibbon's proposition was, therefore, agreed to. A COMPLAINT. A lengthy letter was read from Mr David Davies, Cymmer, complaining of punishment to which his boy had been subjected at school.—The matter will be considered at a special meeting of the board to be held at Cymmer for another purpose. THE NEW EDUCATION CODE. The Vice-chairman drew attention to the necessity fer holding a conference of the board and their teachers to discuss the new code, and pro- posed that the same be held.—Mr J. P. Williams seconded, and it was carried, a special meeting to be held at Cymmer. A SCHOOL WANTED FOR DANCING. Mr O. Williams said he had been requested to bring forward an application from some people who wanted the use of Williamstown school for a dance.-A somewhat amusing discussion followed, some of the members jocularly supporting the application, while others strongly objected, and ultimately the aplication was refused. CONTINUATION SCHOOLS. A memorial re continuation schools (which has been presented at other boards) was read by the Chairman.—Mr Sims objected to it on the ground that it was a hardship on children to refuse to allow them to work until they were 13 Years of age.—Mr O. Williams, Mr J. P. Williams, and Mr D. Davies concurred, and the matter was deferred. APPOINT MEXT OF COMMITTEES. Mr Rowlands pointed out that a great deal of time was wasted by the board in going into details which could be dealt with effectively and expedi- tiously by committees. In the Ystradyfodwg board, for instance, where there was a great deal of work to do, they dealt with all the business in two hours or two hours and a half, whereas here they had been six hours already.—Mr 0. Williams considered that the time taken was unreasonably long, and if they could expedite matters, he thought they ought to.—Mr Rowlaods proposed, and Mr Sims seconded, that a finance committee, school attendance committee, and school management committee be appointed.—The Chairman said this was their first meeting, and he did not think they would be so long in future.—The Clerk feared it would be impossible to carry on the work in that room if they had three committees sitting.—Ulti- mately, it was decided to appoint only two com- mittees, namely, finance and management, the board being divided into two committees to sit at the same time. This concluded the business.
tbeoeky.,
tbeoeky., SERIOUS ACCIDCVT To A BOT. — On Tuesday aftrfrnoon, a truant named Hashes, resiling iu TYNYBEDw-stre t, whilst playiug on a colliery incline near Tytpcoch Colliery, was run ov r by a number of t a:ns. H« susta njd seri.ua injurs, and one of bis hgs had to be auput»ted. Dr Janes and Dr Wright attended him. MOUNTAIN ASH. FATAL ACCIDENT.—On Tuesday, about 3.15 p.m., Thomas Evane, platelayer working 011 th,- Gieat Western R .ilyeay, jnsr opposite ti.e Nt-wti.wn lime kiln, w.,s kDocked d wn by a goods tr>dn. Dr B,1tes hastened to the spot but only to find Ue p or young man qnite dead, a: d it wis his opiujon that de.th must have b en instan- tuneons. There was a wound through the skull, the bone w*s fractured in several places, and th;) brain was exposed. The deceased, who was 27 years of age, was a steady and highly respected man. He Ie 'vea a widow and two child.en. "'iI! t' 'If ">
YSTRADYFODWG LOCAL BOAHD.
YSTRADYFODWG LOCAL BOAHD. The fortnightly meeting of the above Board was held on Friday afternoon, at the Public Offices, Pentre, present-Mr D. Evans J P (chairman), Messrs E. Evans, E. Williams, W. Lax, W. Davies, W. H. Mathias, M. Llewellyn, I W. Jenkins, and E. W. Lewis with Mr W. H. Morgan, clerk Mr S. Ridge, deputy clerk and Mr J. W. Jones, surveyor. I Before the actual business of the board com- menced it was remarked that the only member who had attended the full number of meetings during the year was Mr Evan Williams, Treher- bert, who had that day been re-elected member by a majority of 242 over his opponent, Mr John Davies. The Clerk read a letter from Mr W. Thomas, Brynawel, asking the board for an ex- planation why the public urinal at Mardy had been erected on its present site without the per- mission of the proprietors of the Mardy estate. It was explained that the Surveyor contended that he had written to Mr Thomas before the urinal was put up, but this the latter denied, and remarked that the Surveyor's memory must have served him badly if he said so.—The Surveyor, on being questioned, said he doubted very much whether the urinal was on private property at all. He thought it was on the old parish road, at any rate there was space to the extent of 14 or 15 feet on each side between the urinal and the kerbing of the road.-After some conversation it was agreed that the Surveyor be empowered to ar- range with Mr Thomas in the matter. THE TRAMWAY COMPANY. A letter was read from Mr Pelham, the inspec- tor appointed by the Board of Trade to investi- gate the affairs of the Pontypridd and Rhondda Tramway Company, to the effect that he had fixed Wednesday, the 17th of May, to hold the joint in- quiry on behalf of the Ystradyfodwg and Ponty- pridd Local Boards, and asking where the same should be held.—It was agreed that the inquiry be held at Pontypridd. A letter was also read from the official liquida- tor of the tramway company asking the board to delay the legal proceedings pending against the company in regard to the maintenance of the roads.-The Clerk thought they should not wait any longer.-It was felt that as the company was in liquidation there would be nothing for the board to gain by con'inuing the proceedings, and it was resolved that no further proceedings be taken, as the extent of tramway in the district of the Ystradyfodwg Board was but small compared with that in the Pontypridd district. MARDY BRIDGE AND ROADS. A communication was read from the Aberdare Local Board stating that the latter authority were prepared to carry out their portion of the work with regard to the erection of the new bridge at Mardy at once-the bridge itself to be constructed by the Ystradyfodwg Board, and half the cost of the same to be defrayed by the Aberdare Board. The approaches to the bridge, it was pointed out, would be made by each board in their respective districts.—The Clerk read a draft agreement be- tween the two boards which he had prepared, embracing the conditions referred to and on the motion of the Chairman, seconded by Mr E. Evans, it was resolved that tenders be invited for the carrying out of the work. SANITARY INSPECTORS' REPORTS. The Surveyor read the reports of the sanitary inspectors for the past month. In No. 1 District there had been three fresh cases of scarlet fever in Blaenrhondda, an increase of one on the previous month. There were several cases of measles in Pentre, Treorky, and Treherbert.—Mr E. Evans remarked that he was pleased with the improve- ment which had taken place as to the scavenging of some of the back streets.-In No. 2 District there had been 10 fresh cases of scarlet fever in the neighbourhood of Ystrad Rhondda, two of which proved fatal. Most of the cases had been caused by relatives and friends visiting infected houses, and the medical officer was able to trace most of the cases to this cause. Scavenging was neglected in some of the back streets in Ystrad.— The Chairman asked what steps were being taken to abate the scavenging nuisance.-The Surveyor replied that the inspectors were doing their best to do so.—Mr E. W. Lewis said he knew of places in Ton where the scavenger had not visited for a month, and th3 result was a great nuisance. The accumulation of filth was fearful, and he thought the scavenger ought to be seen on the matter.— The Surveyor said his attention had not been called to it.—Mr Lewis: The place I refer to is a perfect receptacle for filth, and no notice is taken of it.-After a few further remarks, it was resolved that the nuisance be seen to at once.-The Inspector for No. 3 District described the visits he had made to different parts of the district. He would not tax the board with a full report of his visits, but would do so with regard to some of the most important items connected therewith. During the late wet weather it was very difficult to cope with the mud, and he suggested that a larger number of roadmen should be employed. The roads were constantly increasing, but the number of roadmen was stationary.—Mr Jenkins: Is this the report of an inspector of nuisances? -The Chairman Yes.—Mr Jenkins I think it is more of a surveyor's report.—Mr E. Evans It certainly takes the ground from under the surveyor's feet.—The Chairman He shauld only report as an inspector of nuisances. I think he has gone too far. He not only shows the state of the roads, but also points out means of amend- ment.—The Surveyor explained that a resolution was passed at a previous meeting of the board calling upon the inspectors to systematically visit the main roads in the district once a week, and report thereon.—The board recognised the expe- diency of this, but still considered that the latter inspector had exceeded the directions given.—The Surveyor continued the report, which proceeded to point out that the tramway was now in a worse state than when legal proceedings against the company were commenced, and some of the breaksmen were of opinion that the board and its officers were not doing their duty in the matter. There had been an outbreak of swine fever at Trebanog, but he had done all he could to subdue the same.—The Surveyor was instructed to explain to the inspectors the extent of their duties as required by the board.—Mr W. H. Mathias ex- plained that by the inspectors going overthe main roads at regular intervals they would be more in touch with the men, especially those engaged on day work. PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS. A letter was read from Mr Osborne Shephard, Neath, on behalf of the proprietors of the Yaughan Lee estate, consenting to a grant of land for the widening of the Aerw Bridge.—It was resolved that the letter be placed on the minute book, and that the thanks of the board be given for the con- cession granted. In the course of a conversation as to the erection of an increased number of meter lamps, the Surveyor said there were at present 431 ordinary lamps in the district, and it was resolved to erect one meter lamp for every 15 ordinary lamps. WIDENING OF LLWYNPIA ROAD. Mr A. A. Hood wrote to the board to the effect that the Llwynpia Colliery Company were still pre- pared to grant land for the widening of Llwynpia road on the same terms as those given in his letter of the 24th of May last. FINANCE. The collector's statement showed that the sum of ztl,286 18/5 had been received by way of rates during the month. The balance at the bank in favour of the board was reported to be £7,G20 18/1 and the bills submitted to the finance committee that day amounted to £ 1,497 16/ A DEPUTATION. A deputation was present on behalf of the Tony- pandy Co-operative Society asking for the board's permission to proceed with a certain new building at Tonypandy without allowing a four feet frontage as asked for by the board. A conversation took place, and the deputation was empowered to suggest a compromise of two feet to the Society. NEW RATE. The Clerk read the financial estimate for the ensuing half-year, amounting to £ 14,335. Towards this sum there was a balance in hand of JE7,620, with HGO uncollected.—Mr Jenkins asked if a sixpenny rate would not be sufficient to meet the remainder.—The Clerk: If you have a six- penny rate now, you must have a shilling rate next time.—Mr E. Evans: But we we have a large f balance at the bank.-The Chairman remarked that the balance would soon be used up, because there would be very little money coming in for the next three months.-On the motion of the Chair- man, seconded by Mr E. Williams, a rate of 9d in the £ was then unanimously agreed to. MEDICAL REPORT. Dr J. R. James, the medical officer of the board, reported that 134 deaths had taken place during March, 78 of which were children under five years. The births were 263 (130 males, and 133 females.) The percentage of deaths was 17-88, and that of births, 35.28. The chief cause of death was the changeable and severe weather. Forty fatalities had occurred through chest diseases, and measles and scarlet fever had been fatal in three cases. Thd epidemic of measles had spread owing to the patients having promiscuously visited by relatives and friends. Too much pressure was brought to bear by the authorities upon children to attend school in such cases, and this tended to spread fever.—The Chairman said children could not be compelled to attend school if a medical certificate of inability was produced. THE PORTH PRIVATE IMPROVEMENT QUESTION AGAIN. Attention was again drawn to the above vexed question by Mr Jenkins, who asked if the board was to blame in the matter.—Mr E. Evans and Mr W. Davies said they had been found fault with personally for the board's action, although neither of them happened to be present when the tenders were considered.—The Chairman con- tended that the board had acted with prudence in not giving the contract to the lowest tender. Of course they were blamed by some, and they would be blamed so long as they were a board. They must not, however, listen to every thing they heard.—After a few further remarks, it was unanimously agreed to sign the contract with Messrs Jenkins and Sons. DATE OF NEXT MEETING. In consequence of Good Friday, it was resolved, on the suggestion of Mr E. Evans, that the next meeting be held that day month. BODRINGALLT INCLINE BRIDGE. Mr E. W. Lewis ealled attention to the above bridge,remarking that it had been arranged that a committee of the board should inspect the same, but he believed they had not yet done so. The bridge was in a most dilapidated condition, and it was now supported by props. He should like early attention to be given to the matter.—The Chairman was opinion that very little work would make the bridge as strong as ever. This concluded the business.
THE RECENT FATAL ACCIDENT…
THE RECENT FATAL ACCIDENT IN A FAN ROOM AT TREHERBERT. INQUEST ON THE BODY. On Thursday morning an inquest was held before Mr Kenshole, at the Baglan Arms, Treherbert, touch- ing the death of Enward Mainwaring, who was killed on the previous Monday evening. David Mainwaring, 60, Dumfries-street, Treorky, brother of deceased, said his brother was 41 years of age. Howell Price, 43, Railway-terrace, Cwmpark, collier, said on Monday he saw deceased at the Baglan Hotel, and told him he should like to see the fan at the colliery. They went there after a little while, and into the lamp room, and deceased prepared a lamp. Four went in. There was a step to go down from the entrance. He jumped down, and went in, and called them to follow. He (witness) went after deceased. There was only one lamp, and it was very dark. When they got up to the fan they got down a step of some 6in. or Sin. Deceased then stood by the side of the fan. Witness asked him about the diameter of trie fan. Deceased was leaning against a wall, a distance of about four feet from the fan. On hearing the question he got up, saying stop a minute." The next thing he heard the lamp rattle in the fan. Witness caught deceased by the collar, and dragged him back, and he fell with his head at witness's feet. He called him by name, but heard no reply. Went and called for assistance. Light was brought., and then he saw the back of the head covered with blood. He did not move, so he saw he was dead. Mr Lewis, manager, said the fan was Shiele Fan. It worked at the rate of 250 to 300 revolutions a minute. Deceased knew the place very well, but it was not his place to go where he went. He saw deceased's lamp on the ground a foot from the shaft. Saw deceased. The base of the skull was taken about half away, and the brain was protruding. Verdict, Accidental death."
filD-BHOKDDA CHAMBER OF TRADE.
filD-BHOKDDA CHAMBER OF TRADE. The annual meeting of the Mid-Rhondda Chamber of Trade was held on the 2nd inst. at Richard's Coffee Tavern. There was a good number present. Mr George Knill, Postmaster, was in the chair. The Assistant Secretary, Mr Gall read numerous corres- pondeuce dealing with a variety of subjects. Among the many were the following:—Ite Grocery Exchange from Mr Pie ws,Secretary of the Federated Caambers. Letters were rea.d also from Mr J. Davies,J.P., Bryn- fedwen, and Mr Joaiab Lewis, Tynycymmer, on the question of income tax commissioners. Both of these influential gentlemen promised assistance in the appoiutment of a tradesman's commission. Colonel Lindsay replied favourably respecting the appointment of an additional constable fcr Waun Court. Also a letter was read from Mr Hurman, respecting the delivery of parcels from Llwynpia Station. Mr Hurman will meet a deputation from the Chamber, to confer upon this matter. A draft of the anmij.1 report was submitted by Mr John, tht hon. secretary. It was decided to publish the report in English and Welsh. The review of the past year's worK was very satisfactory. Many bene- ficial changes had taken rltice, directly due to the action of the Chamber. Mr Gall submitted a balance sheet, and the healthy result of a balance on the riglJt side was shown The election of officers was then proceeded with. Mr W. W. Hood retires to the ex-prosidential list while Mr George Knill was elevated to the chair for the next year. Councillor R. Lewis was added to the vice-presidents. Some alterations were made ia the council. The meeting terminated with a vote of thanks to Mr Gall for his active and energetic work as assist- ant secretary. ONE BOX OF CLARKE'S B41 PILLS is war- ranted to cure all discharges from the Urinary Organs, in either sex (acquired or constitutional), Gravel and Pains in the Back. Guaranteed free from Mercury. Sold in Boxes 4s. 6d. each, by Roll Chemists and Patent Medicine Vendors; or sent for sixty stamps by the makers, The Lincoln and Midland Counties Drug Co., Lincoln. Wholesale, Barclay & Sons, Farriugdon St., and all the Wholesale Houses.
!SERIOUS CHARGE OF STEALING…
SERIOUS CHARGE OF STEALING MONEY AT PONTYPRIDD. "GOD LOVE ME, IS THAT ALL?" At the Rhondda Police Court, on Monday, (before the Stipendiary and Mr T. P. Jenkins), Taliesin Davies a id Jobn MacDoaald were charged with robbing J imes Cummings of £4. Mr Phillips was lor the dc-fen ".ants. Jam^s Ca.umings, laborer, said on Monday, the lot of April, he drew his army pension, 1'4 10. He was an army reserve rum. He went to the New Inn Hotel. Davies went with him. They afterwards went to the Blue Bill. He spent 10s 101. He took 1 out four sovereigns from his pock- t, and placed them in his hand, showing them to the company in the room. Davies said '"Let's go to Cardiff." He re- fused. He went to skep shortly after, and on wak- ing up missed the four ioverei^us. They were in his It ft hanc^ trousers' pocket. His medal was also in that pocket, and a watch case. The defendants were gone when he woke up. P.S. MacDonald said be arrested Davies on the race coarse. Told him the charge. He said "God love me, is that all?" He said he had lost the mouey in betting. He arrested MacDinald on Wednes- day. Both pleaded guilty, and were sent to prison for a month each.
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WIT AND HUMOUR.
WIT AND HUMOUR. Mixed Pickles—Boys and girls, An Imperious Ca>ar.—Tlio siierilT. Signal Failures—Railway accidents. Tailor's Revellge-Gidllg a customer fits. "Cheaper than dirt," is the pertinent iuscripti<Mtf on a case of soap in an apothecary's window. The hog may not be thoroughly posted in arithv metic but when you come to square root, he ill there—the liog is. Unrestrained politeness: "Please lend me It chew of tobacco, I will return it to you as aoou M I get through with it." The following is an old sailor's direction to ft dentist 'Tis the aftermost grinder aloft on th^ starboard quarter." A chap says he cured palpitation of the heart, by the application of another palpitating heart to tho part affected. "Yes," said the gruff passenger, taking up "Little Men," "I'll buy this book if it describes come of my creditors." Some descendant of Solomon has wisely re- marked that those who go to law for damages aro sum to get them. Mr. 0 Brien, you aro not allowed to smoka your pipe in this shop." Be jabeis, it's not, LUO pipe I'm sinokin', it's the tobaccy." Meteors called shooting stars may shoot without a license but the stars themselves do not really shoot, neither do any of the planets, although they are all revolvers. An old lady at a table (T hole the other day wail very much disgusted with a mat) next to her, who was evidently unfamiliar with the proper use of the finger bowl, "I beg your pardon," she said ab last, but isn't there a bathroom on your floor?** Mr. Jones," said Mrs. J., with an air Of triumph, "don't you think marriage is a means of grace?" Well, yes," growled Jones, "IsupposQ anything is a means of grace that break dowtv pride and leads to repentance." I am afraid," said a lady to her husband, that I din going to have a stirf neck." Nob at- all improbable, my dear," replied her spouse; I- IL have seen strong symptoms of it ever since we vsra married." The following soliloquy was overheard the other Light :-A devotee of Bacchus thus addressed his hat, which had fallen from his head, "If I pick you up, I fall, if I fall, you will not pick me up- then I leave you," and he staggered proudly away,' A farm journal says that by giving cows water at a temperature of sixty degrees a yield of milk' one-third greaLer was obtained. But milkmen- know a trick worth two of that. By putting thQ: water into the cans instead of giving it to the cowii. a yield of three-fourths greater is obtained. How charmingly those blinds of yours arft painted!" remarked Smith to his friend Jones. who was furnishing a new and nuptial abode." They are," replied Jones, with his blandest smile. and you will be surprised, perhaps, when I ten ¡. you they are the work of a blind painter." At the Art Gallery.—Daughter: "What is the subject of this piece of sculpture ? It is beautiful." Mother: I'm sure I don't know, dear." By* etander (with a cold in the head, overhearing) "It's a Nydia from Bombeii." Mother: fcih^ eays it's an idiot from Bombay." I say, Pompey," said one darkey to another, dis chile has tried lots ob specs and t ings for a. prize, but nebber could draw anyt'ing at all,"—» Well, Cassar, I'd 'vise you to try a handcart. 1% chances are a t'ousand to one dat you could draff aat." « When the King of Denmark was about to quit; the congress at Vienna, the Emperor Alexander observed, Your Majesty carries away all oar hearts." Upon which the King, who had not pro* fited by the general scramble for provinces, wittily replied, Yes, sire but not a single sotil The Earl of C., at a banquet, in proposing Tlio healLh of the clergy," said that ill these days clergymen were expected to have the wisdom and, learning of a Jeremy Taylor." His lordship wa& next day reported to have said in these daya clergymen are expected to have the wisdom aud.. learning of a journeyman tailor." A man named Stone exclaimed in a tavern, "I'll bet five pounds I have the hardest name in thft company." "Done!" said one of the company; what is your name?" Stone," cried the first. "Hand me your money," said the other; Co wI name is Haider." The principal of an academy, who had just pur- chased a new bell to hang in the cupola of a new institution, and also married a handsome woman, made an unfortunate orthographical error, when he wrote to the president of the board of trustees, 'I have succeeded in procuring a fine, large* tongued belle." "Thats a stupid brute of yours, John," said Scotch minister to his parishioner, the peat-dealer, who drove his merchandise from door to door in a, small cart drawn by a donkey I never see yon but the creature is braying." "Ah, sir," said the peat-dealer ye ken hearts warm when frieu'a meet." Pupson (to his valet, who is fixing him for I)reaic, fast) I say, Fagg, do you think I shall evaw liavo any uhiskaws? Fagg (after a careful exauiina* tion) Well, sir, I really don't think you ii-ill- leastwise not to speak of. Pupson That's cussett queah my guvnah has plenty and to spaa". Fag Yes, sir, but p'raps you take after your ma. Talent Overlooked.—Virginie has just made hep debut at a third-rate theatre. It consisted in hep appearance on the stage and saying, Did ring?" The next day she met a newspaperman of her acquaintance, who thus accosted her; "Well, Virginie, how goes it?" Whereupon Virginie, assuming the manner of a great actress, remarked, I am not at all satisfied with tuft Press." Intention is everything. He meant to be very consoling, and yet his words must have beet; un- pleasantly suggestive. The master called coloured servant to his side and said, Sam, I'm dying I'm going on a long journey." Sam's eyeit were moist, but lie encouraged the sick man by replying, "Nebber mind, masser, it's all de way down hill." Young lady Are you an admirer of the beau, tiful, Dr. Slasher? Dr. Slasher (a young saw. bones) Oh, yes, indeed. Young Lady What ia the most beautiful thing you ever saw? Dr. Slasher (contemplatively,) Well, I think the most, beautiful thing I ever saw was tl!, way in whirl) Professor Deepcutter book a man's leg off ati the hospital last week." They Arbitrated.—An old tramp who had agreed to saw wood for half all hour for his breakfast from a Baltimore woman quit at the seventh stick and said Madame, 1 have struck for more breakfast ami less wood; are you willing to arbitrate?" "Certainly," she replied, and'she left (lie case in the hands of her bulldog, who ran the tramp half a mile and decided that the lock-out. was inevit- abie. A sailor complained of the power of t he captains, and spoke bitterly of the characters of I ho .-kippeto of the day. Why," said he, nut long ago, on the coa^t of Afriker, a cap'n was going to throw one of the crew, that was dying, ovtyboard befora he was dead. So the man says—' You ain't a going to bury me alive, are you ?' 'Oil," says tite cap'n, 'you neeln't be so jolly particular tu a fe\v minutes." A Jamestown photographer claim to have taken, some excellent- pictures of a cyclone which lingered in that vicinity recently. V\ hen we *ce one of" them we feel a good deal more like bclu-ving that story. A photographer who can go out and sett up a machine and face a cyclone and make it look pleasant, and hold its china little higher and keep still long enough to have its picture Laken, musfc have lots of nerve. A countryman, upon coming to see the sights, I was taken by an Edinburgh friend to the theaire. When the lights were down and the play had commenced, he was offered the use of all oper;i glass. Examining it as closely as the darkness of the place would admit, he placed it to his mouth and turned it upwards. Finding that, no liquid was coming out of it, he handed it back in despair, saying It's empty John there's no' a single uray in t. A story is told of a young man of IScw York who attended a social circle. The conversation turned on California and getting rich. The young man remarked that if lie were there he vuutd. in- stead of working in the mines, waylay some rich miner who had a bag of gold, knock out his brains, gather up the gold, and skedaddle, Olle of ilift, young ladies quietly replied that lie had bettor gather up the brains, as he evidently stood LUV1" in need of that article than gold. • :U" I ■ •>