The Cardigan Bay Visitor

MACHYNLLETH. SCHOOL BOARD.—Mr Thomas Parsons, Burcombe House, has been elected without opposition a member of the School Board for the parish of Isy- garreg. URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL, TUESDAY, ] SEPTEMBER 20TH.—Present Councillor W. M. Jones, mayor, presiding Councillors Lord Henry Vane Tempest, John Thomas, G. W. < Griffiths, J. M. Breeze, T. R. Morgan, Henry Lewis, Richard Gillart; Messrs John Rowlands, clerk John Jones, surveyor and inspector, and 1 Dr A. O. Davies, medical ofEcer. j WATERWORKS. | The Clerk announced that this was a special i meeting convened to consider the letter read at the 1 ordinary meeting held a fortnight ago from Messrs ( Kirby and Sons, the Council's engineers, in regard to the settlement of the contract between the Council and Mr Phcenix, the contractor of the waterworks. He suggested that the matter should be discussed in committee.—The suggestion was adopted.—The ] letter dealt with the claims of Mr Phoenix, which ] originally totalled jE774 14s 3d, including f556 9s 2d r in which liability could be admitted and £218 5s Id ) in which liability could not be admitted. In the ) case of the items in which liability could be ) admittsd, the claim had been reduced from, jE556 9s 2d to £290 10s 9d and this latter amount, to ] which £100 was provided in the contract, was the total amount which they (the engineers) were now ( prepared to certify as being extra to the charge, ( namely, £190 103 9d. The second list of items in 1 which liability under the contract could not be admitted had not been gone intc pending the in- ( Btructions of the Council.—The Clerk explained that the total cost of the waterworks as per con- ) tract was 9d, of which £4,491 had already been paid by the Council on account, leaving a 1 balance of £213 13s 9d, which the engineers were prepared to certify, but which was covered < by the retention clause of the contract 1 meantime.—After considerable -discussion, it was, resolved to write to the engineers asking for more 1 particulars.—Mr John Thomas called attention to ( the condition of the road leading to the waterworks i which he said Was in a deplorable condition. Who was responsible for its repair—the Council or the ( Contractor —The Clerk replied that the Contractor ] was responsible and would doubtless see to the ( matter shortly—^lr John Thomas also pointed out that the paths through which the pipes ran had not ] been levelled.—-The Clerk said the fields would ] be levelled as soon as Mr Phcenix obtained the ] permission of the owners who were anxious that the t crops should not be interfered with in any way.— > The Surveyor said he had written to the Contractor t on the matter of leakages.—Lord Henry Vane t Tempest said he understood that there was a leak- ] age near the National School, but the Inspector ] said it had been repaired.—Mr Henry Lewis said ( at the last meeting he made a statement with refer- J ence to the course adopted by the Contractor in a connection with the leakages of the pipes. He made, that statement on information supplied him by the Surveyor who misled him. On making further ] enquiries, he found that his statement at the Coun- ] cil meeting was unfounded and he thought it but r right to make that explanation at the earliest 1 opportunity.—A letter was read from Mr Gillart f *vith reference to the connection of Aberfrydlan c tarm with the town water supply.—The applica- f tion was granted. t AUDIT. 1 The Clerk said he had received a letter from the f ublic Auditor in regard to the yearly audit of r accounts which he would submit at the ordinary ( meeting. J REJECTION OF THE SEWERAGE SCHEME. t The following letter was read from the Local ( Government Board Sept 13th, 1898-1 am 1 directed the Local Government Board to state tiY-at they have had under :onsideratvon the report made by their In- pector (Mr Ducat) after the inquiry held by him Vbh reference to the application of the Urban Distric: Council of Machynlleth for sanction to borrow £:3,000 for purposes of sewerage and sewage lifeposal. The Board are advised that the pro- posed scheme is not one which should be approved by them, as it is very incomplete and unsatisfac- tory in many important respccfs. In particular, they are advised that nnuyadllitional sewer3 are required in order to effectively exclude all sewage from the existing drains which at present rlis- charge into a stream, and that the land proposed to be acquired for the outfall works is quite un- suitdble, either as a, site for the tanks and filters or for the purification of sewage. The Board are not, therefore, prepared to sanction a loan in re- spect of tne scheme now before them, and they must request the District Council to tike the necessary steps for the preparation and submission cf a revised scheme. Fresh estimate forms are ei.closed."—The Clerk said he had forwarded a copy of th" letter to the engineers who immediately replied. In the course of their letter, the engin- eerlS sa:d t hert appeared to be no alternative but to go it; for a new scheme. — The matter was treated in committee.—Two members were in favour of deferring the sewerage question until all matters pertaining to the waterworks had been settled, but other nr mbera pointed out that a sewerage scheme would have to be carried out sooner or later and the sooner the better.—Consideration of the matter was deferred to the ordinary meeting. RAILWAY FACILITIES. The Clerk said that at the instance of the Courcil he to the Cambrian Railways Company in regard to the railway facilities to Machynlleth during the winter, more particularly in regard to the trains running on market days, persons being unable to come tJ the town during fairs and mar- kets from Llanidloes, Newtown, and Llanbrynmair way until half-past one in the afternoon. Not only was the winter service of trains inconvenient to farmers, but also to commercial travellers and other persons having business to transact in tile town. Lord Henry Vane Tempest, one of the directors of the Company and a member of the Council, had also promised to exercise his influence in the matter. (Applause.)—Lord Henry explained to the Council that immediately after the la<t meeting he wrote to. the Secretary urging upon him to do all he could to improve the present facilities to Machynlleth. The reply which the Clerk had received would, he felt sure, be hailed with satis- faction. (Appjause.)—The Clerk thereupon read the following letter which he had received:- September 19th. Reverting to your letter of the 6th met. with regard to the question of train service to Machynlleth,I have pleasure in informing you that arrangements have been made for a train to run daily during the ensuing winter months start- ing from Oswestry at 8-10 a.m. and calling at all stations between Welshpool and Maehynlleth and due at the latter at 10-42. I trust that this ar- rangement will meet with the approval of your Council. Yours faithfully, C. S. Denniss." (Ap- plause.)—The Chairman said it was a source of great satisfaction to have a train run at the hour mentioned during the winter months. Lord Henry was deserving of their thanks for the trouble he had taken in the matter.—Mr J. M. Breeze pro- posed and Mr Henry Lewisseoonded a vote of thanks to his Lordship which was carried amid ap- plause.—It was also resolved to write to the Rail- way Company thanking them for acceding to the request of the Council. UNSATISFACTORY DRAINS. A letter was received complaining of an unsatis- factory drain in the vicinity of the Londonderry Cottage Hospital. Complaints were also made by the Chairman and other members in regard to other drains.—The matters were referred to the considera- tion of the Sanitary Committee. TENDERS. Only one tender was received for cleaning cess- pools in the town, being from Mr Evan Jones, Cae Garshon-lane, and it was accepted.—Two tenders were received for cleaning the ditches, Mr Joseph Jones contracting to do the work for 41d per rood lOd Mr Evan Jones at 4d.—It was agreed by five votes to two to accept the tender of the lowest. PLANS. The Surveyor submitted plans of proposed altera- tions to dwelling houses in Maengwyn-street, by Mr N. Bennet Owen, the owner.—Mr T. R. Morgan moved that as the plans were in accordance with the byelaws they should be accepted, conditional upon a sewer ventilating pipe being constructed to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.—Mr Richard Gillart seconded the proposition which was agreed to. THE STREETS. It w as resolved, on the suggestion of the Surveyor, to proceed with the metalling of the streets without I ielay, arrangements being pending for the hire of bhe county steam roller for the purpose.—The Council then rose. BOARD OF GUARDIANS, WEDNESDAY, SEI-T- .I01JiIH" 2 1ST.—Frtseilt 111' Bonnet Owen, o lw. h- man, presiding Mr D. Evans, vice chairman Mrs Lloyd, Mr Ellis Hughes, Mr J. Rowlands, Mr Henry Jones, Mr Richard Jones, Mr J. Watkins, Mr J. Davies, Mr Richard Morgan, Morben Mr John Vades, Darowen Mr E. Hughes, Llanwrin Mr Richard Morgan, Mr Richard Owen, Mr Richard Hughes, Mr Evans, clerk, and Mr David Morgan, assistant clerk. Statistics.—Out-relief administered during the past fortnight Machynlleth district, per Mr John Jones, £17 Ss Od to 48 paupers Pennal iistrict, per Mr WTm. Jones, £28 9s Od to 95 paupers Darowen district, per Mr Daniel Howcll, £4 lls 2d to 157 paupers. Number of inmates in the House, 35 last year corresponding period, 34. Number of vagrants relieved during the past fortnight, 34 corresponding period last year, 41. Master's Report.—The Master reported that the inmates were entertained at the Plas as reported to Lhe last meeting and were received by the Marchioness of Loudonderrry and the grounds were thrown open to all to enjoy themselves. A knife and fork tea, with cake, &c., was provided ind all thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Mrs Llewelyn Evans and Mi?s Jones, Rock Villa, visited the House on Tuesday afternoon and presented the inmates with cake and tea and the men vvith tobacco. Inasmuch as vagrants were detained at Machynlleth over Sundays, would it not be advis- able to ask Aberystwyth and Caersws unions to also to detain vagrants over Sundays?—On the pro- position of Mrs Lloyd, seconded by Mr Evans, Pennal, it was agreed to thank the donors for their generosity. It was also agreed to write to Aber- ystwyth and Caersws asking the Guardians thereto detain vagrants over Sundays. Appeal. —Assent wa.s given to the Guardians ap- pearing as respondents in the appeal case by Edward and Jane Jones, Red Lion Inn, Machynlleth. An Effect of the Coal Strike.—A letter was read from a collier who owed f4 towards the mainten "nee of a parent, saying it was impossible to pay in consequence of the disastrous coal strike which had kept him cut of work for six months. Even now bhe strike was settled, he could not go back to work is the workings were so much out of repair and 3ven then he would be three weeks before receiving wages. Then he would have to pay something to wipe off the back rent and the shop debt.—In the circumstances, the Guardians felt that they could act enforce payment.

TOWYN. SCHOOL BOARD FLECTION.—This contest, in which th're are nine candidates for feven seats, is, as far as Tow yn and the surroundiug district is concerned, without any life or excitement iu it, so the result- may be different to expectations. The polling takes place on Friday an i the result may be expected to be declared about mid-night. HARVEST.—The harvest is nearly over and abun- dant crops have been secured in excellent condi- tion. It ever the barns and storehouses proved in- adequate, they have done so this year, and there are excellent prospects tf good af'ermath which, it favoured with a mild autumn, may enable the farmer to contemplate the coming winter with con- fidence. OTTER HUNT.—Mr Edmund Buckley's pack of hounds hunted successfully in the valley of the Dyssyni on Thursday, September loth. Soon after passing Peniaith in the morning they got on the drag and a very fine otter was, after a tune, driven to seek shelter in a gutter cot far from Pont Esti- maner, from which it was with difficulty driven by a number of terriers to a pond where a most excit- ing struggle took placa hetween it and the hounds. Mr Buckley pluckily swam across the pond and succeeded in heading the otter and ultimately it was killed by the hounds. It weighed over fifteen pounds. There was another good tun which resulted in the death of a smaller otter weighing only eleven pounds. Altogether the hunt was a moet successful and enjoyable one. INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL MANAGERS, SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH.—Present: Mr H. Haydn Jones, chairman, presiding; Mrs Rowdands, Mrs Roberts, Messrs William Lloyd, J. Maethlon James, Humphrey Jones, and H. VV, Griffiths; Mr E. J. Evans, clerk, and Mr T. Jones, headmaster. APPOINTMENT OF ASSISTANT MASTER. The Clerk stated that sixteen applications for the post of assistant master had been received.—The Managers then proceeded with the appointment and ultimately picked out Messrs W. R. Williams, Abercemmau, and T. P. Evans, Newquay, Troed- rhiw, for final selection.—Mr W. Rees Williams was appoined on the proposition of Mrs Rowlands, seconded by Mr H. W. Griffiths, ac a salary of £100. OUTSTANDING ACCOUNTS. The next business on the agenda was to consider the best means of collecting outstanding accounts, which were stated to amount to £68 lis 8d.—The Chairman acd Mrs Rowlands thought it was a shame that those sums should have remained unpaid solong. —It was stated that the Clerk had written to most of thee people but they had taken no notice. One of the debtors was stated to have deliberately refused to pay and it was decided to take County Court pro- ceedings. As regards the rest the Clerk was in- structed to write once more. HUGH OWEN CHARITY. The Chairman stated that seven children had sat in the examination for scholarships under the Hugh Owen Charity and the following were successful:— Edith Ellen Davies, Sarah Catherine Davies, Maggie Tudor, Kate Lloyd Roberts, Humphrey Rees, and Ellis Lewis. THE SCHOOL HOUSE. The Managers then proceeded to discuss the question of making arrangements with regard to the school house.—Mrs Rowlands thought it would be better to defer the matter until the decision of the Charity Commissioners in reference to the appoint- ment, of headmaster was received so that the head- master might he consulted in the matter.—The Chairman feared they would have to wait a con- siderable time and eventually it was decided to defer the matter until the Christmas meeting. PENEGOES CHARITY. A communication was received from the Pene- goes School Board stating that this charity would be given that year in equal proportions to Jane Roberts Owen, Cwrt, Ellis Owen Arthur, Police Station, and D. Pritchard Jones, Gwyndy. The Managers had passed a resolution to the effect that no child would receive benefit from that charity unless assurance was given that the child would re- main a year in the intermediate school.—The Chair- man observed that it was a very proper resolution and one which they welcomed. They did not want children at that school who ran away before being there a year THE APPEARAXCF. OF THE SCHOOL. It was resolved to invite tenders for painting and dcing some repairs to the outside of the school building. It was agreed that the tenders should be opened by a committee consisting of the Chair- man, Mra Rowlands, Mr J. Maethlon James, and Mr Griffiths. — Mr G. W. Griffiths asked whether the appearance of the school premises would not be considerably enhanced by planting a few trees ?—In the course of conversation, Mr Griffiths and Mrs Rowlands promised to provide trees and it was re- solved to plant them at a suitable time for planting. SALE OF FREEHOLD PROPERTY. On Monday afternoon Mr Dd. Gillart (of the firm of Messrs R. Gillart acd Sons) offered tor sale at the Lion Hotel, Machynlleth, several lots of free- hold and leasehold property situate in Corris and Upper Corris. The sale commenced at half-past two when there was a good attendance of intending purchasers. The Auctioneer drew attention to the very satisfactory repoits made by experts upon the slate veins running through the property. Lots 1 and 2 were put up together by request. They con- sisted of the freehold tenement of Rhognant of I la. Or. 23p. and the freehold farm of Tynyceunaut of 29a. 2r. 21p., situated on the main road between Machynlleth and Ccrris, and stated to contain valuable state veins which have been making large returns of slate and slab. Only £:3,000 bid was reached and the Auctioneer at once withdrew the lot. Lot 3, the freehold residence of Rhianfa, described as a well-adapted house for a gentle- man's residence, was next put up. Starting at £200, bidding only reached and the Auctioneer, remarking that there must be something wrong with the atmosphere, withdrew. Lot IV consisted cf another freehold villa residence called Brynawel, well situated at Corris. No bids were made. For Lot V., lease- hold dwelling-houses and shops, Kos. 1, 2, and 3, Glanydon, Corris, held on lease from the Dowager Marchioness of Londonderry with seventy years to run, a starting bid of £200 was made, and for JE400 it was knocked down to Mr John Rowlands, soli- citor, who was bidding on behalf of another pur- chaser. Lot VI, the dwelling-house and garden of 1, Chapel-street, Corris, was next offered and fetched bids of jESO and £90, but the Auctioneer said it would not be let to go under £100 and it was withdrawn. Lots VI, VII, VIII, consisting of three dwelling-houses with gardens, Nos. 1, 2, and 3, Chapel-street, Corns, were put up together and sold for f307 10s to Mr S. Green, Aberyst- wyth. A garden situated near Corris, suitable for building sites, was withdrawn at £25. The solici- tor for the vendors in this sale was Mr R. O. Davies, Ware, Herts. At 3 30 Mr Gillart con- ducted the sale of the freehold shop, dwelling- houses, and premises of Brynteg. After rather slow bidding, the lot was knocked down at £316 to Mr Owen Jones, Upper Corris. The solicitor for the vendors in this sale was Mr W. P. Owen, Aberystwyth.

WESTERN SEA FISHERIES COMMITTEE. The quarterly meeting of the Committee was held a.t Portmadoc, on Tuesday, Dr Charles Williams presiding.—The reports of the fishery officers were considered to be satisfactory.—It was reported that Cardigan County Council had not paid the call of £:3:) due, and a resolution was passed that unless the same were paid within a month the usual pro- ceedings would be taken.—It; was reported that the coal Jar nuisance at Conway river had not been abated, and it wus resolved that unless the nuis- ance were abated proceedings would be taken against the Comvay Corporation.—The Com- mittee supported a number 'of resolutions submitted from the Llandudno district protesting against the proposed erection of chemical works at Llandudno J unction.—Captain Johnston of her Majesty's ship" Colossus," in respect to the letter addressed to the Secretary of the Admiralty with reference to the alleged injury to tiie net fishing in Holyhead Harbour, begged the Jlerk to be good enough to cause arrangements to II e made with witnesses to wait upon him in order ;hat the subject might be discussed.—The Clerk Mr Casson) said this had been done and they were lImiting notice of the inquiry to be held. A engthy communication was read from the Lan- lasbire Sea Fisheries district enclosing a resolu- :ion in favour of urging upon the Prime Minister the necessity of protection for im- nature flit sea fish by legislation and ihe provision of a grant out of the Imperial Ex- jhequer towards the expenses incurred by the local isheries committees in enforcing the provisions of ,he Sea Fisheries Acts.—On the motion of Mr Bonsall, seconded by Mr D. Lloyd George, M.P., t was decided to join Lancashire.—An additional oylaw prohibiting trawling on mussel beds within 'he limits of any estuary in the district was idopted.—On tho motion of Mr Lewis Lewis, seconded by Mr Manchester, a vote of thanks was passed to the Lancashire Sea Fisheries Committee or the assistance they had rendered to the Western Sea Fisheries district.—It was decided that, as far is Barmouth is concerned, the close time for nussels shall be from the 20th of March to the 20th November.

ABERAYRON. j HERRINGS.—The first herrings of the season were caught on Tuesday nigat last. This gives a. promise of a plentiful season. SUCCESS of PUPILS.—Mr Emrys Williams, son of Mr John Williams, 3, Alban-suuare, AherayroD. nged fifteen, has passed the junior Od, rd local examination in the second class with honours, being 172 on the list out of over 3,000 candidates. He" as educated at the Aberayron County School. Miss Lizzie Jones of 3, North-road, Aberayron, who is in a London school, also passed the same examiaa- tion. THE NEW COUNTY School.—One fact was not adequately emphasized in the proceedings of Mou- day. The new buildmgs are with waLr from an untainted source by a gravitation system, This affords a copious supply for lavatory, hbora- tory, and cleaning pllrpmes. It also has a j-t with hose for flushing and ia ease of tire. Tins in- estimable convenience is to a certain extent due to the services and persistency of Mr J.. iui LVu ies, the clerk of the works. OBTAINING MONEY ;;v FALSE 1jrl:tes'i r.s.—At the Town Hall -n diiesday, bet re J. Hag.i Jones, Esq., Richard Rie'ard«, LUm- wenug, w as charge i w.th having obtained money by false pretences «t Llwy.on, Lianiua, < n Septem- ber lO.¡ -P.C, Lev. i* proved havirg, in e.onjunc- tioa with P.C. Evans, Llanarth, aiT-stod accused under a warrant ut Pantfiynon, when the litter said he was very sorry f r what he had doue. He charged accused witl haviug obt in <1 a shiling by false pretences, i.e., by statiiig that he lived at Syno ifach and had a cow, where.-3 that ws not ao. A':cu:ed r,pli( II that he did not rcmemher what he did as he wa;; in drink. Witness told him that he had hear j of his having been doing thi* ir; many other places and accused admitted it.—Evan Lewis. Doleuwal, Llararth, gave evidence to the effect that accused had come up to him stating that a cow of his had died and asked for assistance. ACClHPd also sill he had nine children to keep and. he (witn ss) gave him a shilling. — P.C. Evans said it was unrue that accused lived at Syuodfach and P.C. Lewis stated that accuse:! had neither cows nor ch ldren.—Accused admitted the charge and the Bench, having no power to deal with the case, comm tted the prisoner to Quarter Sessions. BOARD OF GUARDIANS, WEDNESDAY, SEP- TEMBER 21sT, -Present; Captain D. Rees, chair- man Mrs Leah Jones. Mrs M. Rees. Aoer- avron; Dr Evans and Mr D. Jones, L'anfihangel Ystrad Mr J. Davies, Llanfihangel Trefeglwys; Mr James Williams, Dihewid Mr S. Evans, Llanllwchaiarn Messrs T. A. Lloyd and D. M. Rowlands, Llansanttfraed Messrs J. C. Jones, G. Griffiths, and A. Lloyd Rees, Llanar-h Mr Davies, Llansilio Mr J. M. Howell, Hen- fynyw Mr T. Davies, Llanfihangel Aberarth J. M. Jones, Cilcenin Mr Lewis James, Ciliau Messrs David Davies and W. Evans, relieving officers; and G. Evans, master. Statistics.—Out-relief administered during the past fortnight, Llansanttfraed district, per Mr W. Evans, JE38 12s Od to 158 paupers. Llan- dyssilio district, per Mr David Davies, f34 llsOd to 151 paupers. Number of vagrants relieved during the past fortnight, 25; last year corres- ponding period, .11. Number of inmates in the House, 14 last year corresponding period, 9. Vaccination. — A letter from the Local Govern- ment Board was read stating that under the new arrangements for public vaccination contem- plated by the Vaccination Act, IS9S, the use of stations at which public vaccination has hitherto been perforrre 1 will he discontinued at the end of this year except in those cases where, under sec- tion 7 of the Act, the Board deem it expedient by reason of serious risk of outbreak of smallpox or of other exceptional circumstances to require the Guardians to provide vaccination stations. — It was resolved to give notice to terminate the contracts with the occupiers of houses used as vaccination stations. Provisions. — A committee consisting of Messrs T. Davies, G. Griffiths, and A. Lloyd Rees, were named to select out of the tenders for provisions. —Mr T. Davies reported that the brands of oatmeal and rice shoulrt be described in inviting tenders. Unpiinctaa'iti/.—Owing to there being only six members present, the Chairman, Messrs J. G. Jones, Lewis James, James Williams, John Davies, andJ. Davies, all old members, the business could not be proceeded with for some time after eleven o'clock. Later on in the meeting, Mr C. Jones prot-stsd against the unpunctui i y of members.—Th > Chair- man Hlicl thpy hid ..xpectd b'ótter tr:in;s from the new members,- Dr Evans said as far as he was concerned he had been up as fir as Llavgeitho tYLL morning and could not possibly have come sooner. —Mr J. C. Jones said he referred to no m-mber personally. If the cap fitted anyone, he could not help it.—-Dr Evans said the nev.* members workt-d S m-: of the old memi>rs nev.ruttrL.ded unt about an hour after the time. A Garden for 'Jw House.—Dr Evaia. in accord- ance with nctic- of motion, pr/posed that a plot of land should be obtainod for the purpose of a garden for the Workhouse. In doing so, Dr Evans cited the casjs cf Tregar in where, he said, gardens were kept without outside assistance at a good profit. He thought the same thing be done at Aberayron. Put, apart ÜDI11 thÜ, the inmates ought to have some place to go to instead of being huddled together in the small space they hail a" their disposal. The Workhouse was not a giol and tl1 lUIU"tps should not he kept in such clo-e confinement. Mr Bircham had told them that the best way to keep the inmates in order was to find th-m something to do ard (Dr Evans) knew they w\ nld be much happier if they were kept do'.ng some light work about the garden than be all day doing net -in?. At pre.ent there was no open space attacm-d to the House. AtTreg-iron and Lampeor pigs vvtrc kept in the garden and it paid well. What was done with the waste of their Workhouse at present he had no idfa, and there was not even room to beat the carpets without going on the public road. — Mr Griffith Grffiths seconded the proposition. — Mr J. C. Jones sup- ported the motion on condition that the plot of land was bought and not rented, or obtained on a long lease.—Mr Jenkin Davies proposed as an amend- ment that the ma'ter he deferred, stating that that was the fir-r he had heard of the project.— Mr D. A. Lloyd supported Dr Evans's motion and urged that the matter should bs pushed forward as soon as possible. The trustees of the Monachdy Estate were prepared to rent the grouud, but they wouH net her sell it nor lease it. — Mr J. M. Howell also supported the motion and said Dr Evans had given convincing reasons in support of his case. He (Mr Howell) attached greater import- ance to Dr Evans's statement that by procuring the garden they would be doing something towards the comfort of those unfortunates who had come there to spend the rest of their lives than to the fact that they would benefit financially. — Mr Thomas Davies also supported the motion and pointed out that the cost would be the same as the increase of a shilling a week in the relief of one poor woman in the union. W He they then justified in incurring such a trifling expense if by doing so they would do so much towards rendering happier the lives of those who had sought refuge at the Houses.—The proposi- tion was pissed unanimously. Workhouse Accommodation Startling Fa,ct8.- Dr Evans moved that a committee be appointed to inquire as to the accommodation for vagrants and paupers in the Dr Evans said no doubt many of the members were under the impression that there was ample accommodation at that House for the number that made use of it. Now, the question was, what was the real object of the House ? It was, as they knew, for people who were poor and destitute, who could demand ad- mittance there, and it was often used by poor people in case of illness. Now, was the accom- modation at that House suitable for such cases ? But more important than that was the question, was the accommodation such as to justify the Guardians compelling paupers to come into the House, that waa, by enforcing the workhouse testThe only way of keeping relief down was by making the Workhouse the ttst. of poverty. Let them take the two unions which were at the head of the list of pauperism for Wales and Monmouthshire, Forden and Tregaron. In the Forden Union, one out of every four of the paupers was in .the House and, at Tregaron, one out of every fifteen paupers were inmates of the Workhouse. At Aberayron, there was only one in-door pauper to every thirty oat-door paupers. The result of this was that the relief amounted at Forden to 2s 6d per head of population at Tregaron, 3 2d and at Aber- ayron, 3s 91. In the Forden Union, only one imbecile was relieved outside the Workhouse and only one sing e woman. Tregaron would have been much higher on the list if it had not been for one curious fact—that it relieved more single women out of doors than any other union on the list. Pro- ceeding, Dr Evans asked what was the accommoda- tion they had for paupers? They had one dormitory for males and one for females and there was no separate place for placing sick people. They had another room, but it had no fireplace, so that it would be quite unsuitable. At present ten men occupied the small room they had at their disposal. Then there was great need for a proper dining room, and there was no room at all for re- ceiving applicants and others who called. As to the need for a sick room, he would mention one fact As they were aware the new Vaccination Act would come into force very soon. He did not think people in that district would be so silly as to take advantage of it, but in populous districts, and especially in the Lancashire district, he was told, much would be made of it. and it was a certainty that before many years had passed there would be numerous cas-s of small-pcx in those districts, and what with the large numbers of tramps which came into that district it was more than probable that they would have case? in the district. Then what would they do ? They had no place set apart tor cases of that kind. The Rural Council had not provided an isolation hospital and there would be no Dossibilifcy (1f serarating the patIènts from the other inmates. Continuing, Dr Evans referred to the accommodation for vagrants and said there were a.t present no separate cells for males and females and no baths. At least the small bath they had was never used and, in spite of the rules requir- j ng that every tramp should have a bath bdorc: aving, he never heard of a tramp receiving a bath it Aberayron Workhouse. The tramps, male and iemale, were huddled together there the teds had .vooden frames, the favourite resort of fleas. There was nothing a Ilea was more partial to than wood- ( aughter)—and he defied any member by any pro- cess to get rid of deas from their hole:! in the wood. It wa-. a disgrace to the union aid no time should tie lost in providing proper hot and cold water baths or at least supply the present bath with water. At Tregaron aud Lampeter all this had been done and in all the surrounding workhouses the tramps received daily baths. He was sorry for the Master. He was the best master they coulel poss b y have and it was a wonder how he and the Matrou ki-pt the iamates and House so clean uuder those circumstances. They had practically not a single roun in the House to themselves. He honestly believed the laster was pining there. Then they had the best clerk in the country and the office he hod there was not worthy of a third-rate areen- gr 'cer's shop. It was a mystery to him that Mr Bircham had not comedo.vn on them as he had done on Tregaron and Lampeter. He could give no explanation for it unless he, like the laster, had given up all hope and was waiting for the place to get so bad that he could comedown and do away with it altogether with one sweep.—Mr Thomas Davies seconded the proposition.—Mr J. M. Howell supported the preposition, remarking that in the opinion of Dr Evans they were receiving the opinion ot an authority on matters of that kind. Dr Evans had held a high office under the Local Government Board and spoke from the point of view of an ( xpert. However, he did not know whether Dr E' ans'shigh ideals would ever be attained by them. He feared not. Hi-i (Mr Howell's) irnpres-ion after hearing Dr Evans's description of what ought to be was that they should have a splendid hotel provided with hot and cold water baths — Dr Evans I only described Lampeter and Tregarou workhouses. — Mr Howell This was the impression you gave me by your tlescription.-1r Thomas Davies: You will fret those hot and cold water baths at Carmarthen. Mr Howell thought perhaps it would be a good thing if some of them went there. He did not think anyone there had had any ba'.hs except- in the open sea. (Laughter.) Proceeding, he said the Board could proceed at once to provide water for the bath. That was work which they could carry out immediately.—Mr J. C. Jones said the picture which Dr Evans had drawn was a very dark one. Would Mr Bircham's report on the House bear out Dr Evans's description. Dr Evans' ideal was very high, and if they carried it out would they not be providing a better place for paupers than they had themselves ?—Mr Jones then called for Mr Bircham's last report which stated that he had inspected the House and had found the rooms, beds, etc., clean. He heard no complaints from any of the inmates who were well treated. Con- tinuing, Mr Jones said that would not bear out what Dr Evans had described.—Mr Jenkin Davies supported the motion, but did not agiee with providing better accommodation for tramps than any of the members enjoyed.—Dr Evans said the present arrengements were just what the tramps liked as shown by the fact that they had as large numbers coming there as at Aberystwyth which was a large centre.—The motion was then carried without opposition.—It was also decided, on the proposition of Dr Evans, that the question of providing better accommoda- tion for the Master and Matron and the Clerk should be referred to the Committee. The Offices of the Jtaster.—The next motion was again in the name of Dr Evans and was to the effect that the Master should devote tne whole of his time to his duties in connection with the WTorkhouse and that the salary of the Master and Matron be in- creased to f 55 on the condition that he undertook the duties of relieving officer for vagrants at a salary of f5. Dr Evans said the Master's salary at present was £20 less than that of any other in the district, and the old Board, in order to make up for it, he supposed, gave him the post of sanitary inspector. At that time the office was no sinecure and no doubt the Guardians were glad that he took it. They elid not want much work done and much work had never been done.(Cries of "Oh.") He did not blame Mr Evans. It was quite im- possible for him to do the work. He could not leave the Workhouse until every tramp had left. At least, he ought not to leave the tramps in the charge of the Matron and imbeciles. Tne salary of master was refunded by the County Council and, by keeping it down at the small figure, they had only been saving the funds ot the County Council and obtaining a less share out of them than other unions. Half the salary of inspector was also re- funded and by increasing the salary they would not be adding one penny tj the rate of the unicn. If tne sanitary work of the district was to be done, there would have to be a change. TlIere was a lot of important work to be done and it was for them to decide whether it should be done or not-lr Thomas Davies seconded the proposition, remark- ing that at the time the two offices were joined no importance was attached to sanitary work. Now, as they krew, all that had changed and it was "ime the matter should be re-considered.—Mr J. M. Howell and Ivlr D. A. Lloyd thought the mat- ter required further consideration and proposed that it should be deferred.—Dr Evans said it would mean a year's delay, during which the sani- tary work of the dis'rict would not be done.—The preposition to defer" as carried by eight votes to five. OPENING- OF THE ABERAYRON COUNTY SCHOOL BUILDINGS. The formal opening of the Aberayron County School buildings took place on Moncay, September 19th. The school. is situated within its own grounds on a prominentsite just above the Feathers Hotel. It is an open situation, but has a southern aspect and is sheltered from easterly winds. The architecture is unpretentious. The Managers, preierring to secure commodiousness in- side than costly ornamentation en the outride, selected the plans which fulfilled this condition. The architect is Mr LI. Bankes Price, B.A., of Dol- dremont, Lampeter, and the contractor Mr E. Evans, Llinybyther. The buildings consist of a fine and spacious centre hall 45ft by 25ft, two class- rooms 20ft by 16ft, master and mistress's room, workshop 20ft by 15ft, laboratory 20ft by 15it, music room 18ft by 15ft, kitchen 26ft by 15ft, two lavatories. and out-offices. A full resume of the history of the move- ment was given by Mr J. M. Howell at the in- augural meeting and is printed in full in this report so that any further details at this point are unneces- sary. Suffice it to say that of the five county schools established under the county scheme, the Aberayron School is the second to be opened in new buildings. The Llandyssul School has been accom- modated in its new buildings for nearly twelve months. Cardigan will open its new schoolroom cn Wednesday in this week and Aberystwyth and Tregaron are still to follow. Monday opened with omens of rain, but at half-past two in the afternoon the sky was clear, a friendly sun shone on the scene as the invited guests and the public wended their way along the path through the Feathers cornfield to the stage of the afternoon's perform- ances. In good time Major Price Lewes, Mrs Lewes, the Misses Lewes, and Lieutenant Price Lewes and Mrs Lewes drove into the grounds along a virgin read. At the announced hour, 2-45, Mr LI. Bankes Price, B.A., the architect, handed to Mrs Price Lewes a silver key in a velvet case with which she immediately opened the chief entrance door and in a clear voice she said, I now declare this building to be open. I wish the school great success. I trust the pupils who will come here from time to time will be obedient boys and girls, that they will obey their masters and mistresses, and that they will make good men and women. I again wish the school in its Managers, its staff, and its pupils very great success." (Cheers.) The key bore the following inscription, Presented to Mrs Price Lewes of Tyglyn to commemorate the occasion of her opening the Aberayroa County School, September 19th, 1898." Mrs Lewes and party, who were received by the local managers and the staff of the school, were then escorted to the Central Hall. The local managers in attendance were Major Price Lewes, chairman; Dr Davies, vice-chair- man; Mrs T. Z. Jones, Mrs Jones, Roseland, Llanon, Alderman Morgan Evans, J.P., Alderman J. M. Howell, J.P., Councillor E. Lima Jones, Mr W. Williams, draper, and Mr John Jones, Cwmere, Mr B. C. Jones, clerk. The public immediately appro- priated the entire sitting accommodation provided and soon occupied most of the standing room. There were present in addition to those mentioned —Principal Roberts, M.A., Aberystwyth, chairman of the County Governors, and Mrs Roberts, Principal Bebb, M.A., St. David's College (Lampeter), and Mrs Bebb, Mr Vaughan Davies, M.P., the Rev J. M. Griffiths and Mrs Griffiths, the staff of the Aberayron County School, viz., Mr Gwyn Jones, B.A., headmaster, Mr Charles Nathan, B.Sc., science master, Miss Kitching, B.A., mistress, Miss E. Evans, assistant mistress, Mrs Gwyn Jones, Mrs Lima Jones, Mrs Jones (Cwmere), Mrs J. M. Howell, Miss Anderson (Lone), Mrs and Miss Longcroft (Llanina), Mrs Price and Miss Price (Doldremont, Lampeter), Aberayron urban councillors, Rev Evan Morris, Rev J. Davies, Mr D. Lloyd (Pen- garreg), Mr J. Davies (Feathers Hotel), Mr J. T. Evans (Bristol House), Mr D. Evans (Red Lion), Mr J. Rees (Glasgow House), Mr J. R. Evans (Anchor House), Mrs Morris, Mrs Davies (Feathers Hotel), Mrs Lloyd (Pengarreg), county governors, Professor Robert Williams, M.A., Lampeter: Rev T. Gwilym Evans, Aber- ayron Rev T. Mason Jones, Trisant; Councillor J. C. Jones, Llanarth, also Mrs Robert Williams Mrs Rees, Glasgow House; Mrs Leah Jones, Aber- ayron Poor Law Guardians Captain Daniel Jones, 3, North-road Captain D. Rees, New^Quay, chair- man of the Aberayron Board of Guardians; Councillors T. A. Lloyd, clerk to the Llansant- tiread School Board James Williams, Dihewid J. M. Jones, Cilcennin Dr Lewis, medical officer of j Llansantffread district Mr William Evans, R.O. Mr Griffith Evans, inspector; elementary teachers Mr Jonathan B. Jones, Ciliau Park, and j Mrs Jones Mr and Mrs Powell, Cilcennin Mr S. I E. Davits. Aberarth Mr T. R. and lrs Davies, l Llauon Mr Samuel Jones, Penlone; Mr Ivor Davies, Cross Inn Miss Evans, Dihewid Mr D. Rees, Penant, and Mrs Rees Mr J. R. Davies, British School, and Mr T. Jones, National School, Aberayron. Clergy and ministers: Revs Mr Parry, Cilcenin O. R. Owen, New Quay Mr Davies, Ferryside Morgan Evans, Rectory, Llanddewi Aberarth D. Richards, vicar of Llansilio D. Lewis, vicar of Llansanttfraed; D. M. Davies, curate of Llanddewi Aherarth, and Mrs Davies B.C. Davies, Tyngwn- dwn. and Mrs Davies, Mr James, Aberduar T. Williams, Rhydygwyn R. Williams, vicar of Llanaeron, and Mrs Williams Mr and Mrs Jones, Tirt.ach Mrs Daniel Davies, North-road Mrs Howell, Mrs B. E. Howelt Mrs Bennett.Jones Mr .J. and Mrs Davies, London House Mr E. Evans, contractor of the school buildings Mr J. Davies, clerk of the works Mr Gold; Mr Saunders Davies. Felinfach Mr D. D. Jones, Neuaddlwyd Mr E vans, clerk of the Llanfihangel Ystrad School Board Mr and Mrs J. Lloyd Lewis, chemist Mr J. Williams, 3, Alban-square Mr J. Joues, boot- -maker; Captain Abraham Jones Mr Evan Rees, Glaenfaen Mr W. Rees Ciicenin; Captain Evans, merchant and Mrs Evans; Mrs Charlotte Davies, Mrs Evans, Aernn Queen House, and others. Miss Lewes, Tyglyn Acron, played a pianoforte solo to introduce the proceedings. Major PRICE LEWES, chairman of the Local Governing Body, presided, and in opening the proceedings, sid he had received a number of letters c aiched in very friendly terms wishicg the proceedings and the school every success. They would regret the absence of Mrs Lewes of Llan- d' ron, who was prevented by the infirmities of old age from being among them. The school buildings had been erected on her land. She had purposed making them a gift of a site, but she had found that her powers were limited and difficulties had arisen which had thwarted her wish in that mat- ter. It was possible that many of them had be°n somewhat disappointed by the outward appearance of the building, but the local governors had, in his opinion, rightly decided not to spend money on ornate decoration to the outside of the buildings, but rather to provide spacious accommodation in class-rooms. They would adrritthat they had suc- ceeded in their obj-ct. They had that large hall, two commodious class rooms, a master's and mis- tress's room, a laboratory, that most important room, the kitcnen, and a work-room. In that room they would undoubtedly have the assistance of Mr Munro Hughes, whose absence they regretted. who had already gratuitously conducted a very efficient class in wood carving. (Cheers.) The school had shown very good results already. It had been opeued in May, 1896 At the expiration of twelve months, an examination of the school had been conducted by the proper authorities and he had been much struck by the report of the examiners. The Chief Inspector had remarked on the fact that fifty of the pupils had been drawn from the rural district and twenty-one from the urban districts, which indicated that the school had taken a firm hold of the outlying country. He congratulated the district upon the possession of so admirable a building for the purpose for which it had been built. (Cheers.) Alderman JOHN* M. HOWELL, J.P., was next called and gave the following account of the history of the movement which had culminated in the proceedings of that day :— The establishment of the University College of Wales at Aberystwyth in the year 1872, its incor- poration in the year 1890, and the incorporation of the colleges of Cardiff and Bangor a few years earlier, created a demand for an intermediate system of education which was irresistible. In the Welsh language the same word is used for a ladder as for a school. A school to a Welshman signifies an appliance by which he is enabled to climb. Each successive government during the decade from 1880 to 1890 had not at hand the necessary machinery wherewith to make such a ladder. By the parsing of the important Local Government Act of 1SS9 the necessary machinery and tools were provided for the purpose. The passing of the Local Government Act referred to opened the way for the immediate realisation of the dreams of Welsh educa- tionists, for at the end of the same session of Parlia- ment the Welsh Intermediate Education Act was passed. This Act provided for the creation of joint education committees upon which devolved the important duty of maturing schemes subject to the tlexille provisions of the Act which would meet the want3 of the respective counties of Wales and the county of Monmouth. In Cardiganshire the Joint Education Committee consisted of Archdeacon Edmunds, principal of St. David's College, Lampeter, and Colonel Daviea- Evar,s, lord-lieutenant of the county of Cardigan, appointed by the Charity Commissioners, and of Alderman M. Evans, J.P., Ohkford, the Rev LI. Edwards, M.A., of Aberystwyth, and Alderman Jones, J.P., of Aberystwyth, appointed by the County Council. The fuuetion of determining the number of schools to be established and their location devolved on this Committee. Collateral with the appointment of that Committee there arose a very laudable rivalry in the various towns and villages w ithin the county for the location of the proposed new schools. Perhaps the rivalry was keenest of all between Aberayron and New Quay—the respect of the one for the other from of old being of a kindred nature to the relationship of Jerusalem and Samaria. (Laughter.) The move- ment, which it was his duty to endeavour briefly to chronicle, began in the spring of the year 1890. The fiist simmerin of public feeling in the town of Aberayron in favour of making a strong effort to secure one of the schools which would have to be established became first noticeable in some in- formal conferences in which Mr L. J. Roberts, now H.M.I.S. Dr Davies, Mr E. Jones, then of the Feathers Hotel Mr T. Davies, Compton House Councillor John Hugh Jones, J.P., and others w-re prominent figures. These were followed by a series of public meetings. At one of these meetings a resolution was passed appointing a committee which was to take the necessary steps to formulate a claim on behalf of Aberayron as a suitable centre for the location of one of the schools. That committee consisted of tha late Rev W. 0, Edwards, B. D., vicar of Hen- fynyw, chairman; Mr Munro Hughes, treasurer; Mr Lewis J. Roberts, hon. secretary; the late Rev W. Evans. Peniel Rev Morgan Evans, rector of Llandewi Aberarth the Rev E. Morris, Dr Davies, Dr J. A. Jones, Mr J. M. Howell, Mr T. Davies, Compton House Mr E. Jones, Feathers Hotel; Mr John Hugh Jones, Mr J. Davies, London House; Mr E. Lima Jones, Mr T. H. Maddy, Mr B. C. Jones, financial hon. secretary. Mr L. J. Robert, who was then a Lampeter under- graduate, threw a vast amount of zeal into the project. By his self-devotion and ability he warmed the committee up to boiling heat. He was appointed honorary secretary to the com- mittee. Educated, an educationist, and a nation- alist, he rendered inestimable service in compiling statistics and in building up a tabulated case in favour of the claims of Aberayron, which was pre- sented in the best possible form to the Joint Education Committee. (Cheers.) During the greater part of the year 1890 the Local Committee worked with courage and harmony and, where one and all vied with each other in organising and promoting the work, it would be difficult to single out any one for praise. Nevertheless, in addition to the name of Mr Roberts, most people will agree that tne names of Dr Davies and Mr Munro Hughes are worthy of special mention as indefatigable workers. (Cheers.) By canvassing for subscrip- tions, by collecting money, by holding meet. lnJ\ m. al* the outlying districts, by active ettorts to secure a site, by attending meetings ot the Joint Education Committee, by corresponding with absent donors, &c., each member m one or more of these ways contributed hIS mite toward the promulgation of the work. As a result of these efforts, promises of subscrip- tions amounting to nearly £1,000 were secured in a few months, and the Committee, emboldened bv their success authorised their delegates, who represented them at the meetings of the Joint Education Committee, to promise that the Local Committee undertook to provide £ 1,500 in case a school was located at Aberayron. Early in the spring of 1891 the decision of the Joint Education Committee was received, when it was ascertained that the efforts of the Local Committee had been crowned with success—the conditions being that a sum of not less than £1,500 be raised by voluntary subscriptions and that a suitable freehold site be provided. The significance of the victory can only be realised by those who witnessed the almost evenlv- balanced fckilland strength and environments of the combatants, notably New Quay and Aberayron without forgetting Llanarth. The first public meeting after this announcement was held on the 28th July, 1891. The Local Committee was now confronted by the task of finding the money in hard cash or of giving a bond covering the amount to the Joint Education Committee. Just at this moment the inevitable re-action set in and for these or for other causes some of the Committee men went back and walked no more with us. (Laughter.) On the 25th September, 1891, the Working Committee was re-organized and consisted of Dr Davies, chairman. Mr J, M. Howell, vice-chairman Mr D. G. Munro Hughes, treasurer Mr L. J. Roberts, hon. secretary Mr Benjamin C. Jones, financial hon. secretary; Mr E. Jones, Feathers' Hotel; Mr T. Davies, Compton House Mr J. Davies, London House Mr J. T. Evans, Bristol House Mr J. Evans, watchmaker the late Mr E. Loyn, St ir of Wales Mr W. Williams, Aeron House Mr D. Evans, Red Lion; Mr E. Lima Jones, chemist* Captain Williams, Bridge End House; Captain Daniel Davies, North-road Mr J. Lloyd Lewis, druggist; Mr J. S Jones, N. P. Bank; Captain Joseph Rees Captain Daniel Jones, North-road Mr John Williams, 3, Alban-square; Mr W. Morris Jones Mr T. Pugh, draper Mr J. Rees Glasgow House Captain J. Jones, 5, North-road: From September 25th, 1891, to April 12th, 1S94, the date of the first meeting of-the Local Governor; under the scheme, this committee continued to exercise its functions. The mutilation of the original county scheme by the House of Lords led to a re-constitution of the school districts. According to the original scheme, the Aberayron school district covered the district of the Aberayron Union together with about one-fourth of the Tre- garon Union district, embracing a population of about 16,000. Under the amended scheme a school was located at Tregaron, making the Aberayron Schoool district co terminous with the district of the Aberayron Union, except that it includes the parish of Trevilan. Thus our County School dis- trict had to provide for 11,833 and not for 16,000 inhabitants. Following the C').1Iputa; ion adopted by the Joint Education Committee, the Aberayron Local Committee had to provide accomino lation for 100 children, viz., 60 boys and 40 gitIs, instead of for 150 children. This reduced the demand on voluntary effort to £1,000 and a freehold site, instead of £1,500 and a freehold site. The Local Committee accomplished the task set for them. The £1,000 and a freehold site have been provided. This includes a sum of £100, the pro- ceeds derived from an eisteddfod held in 1S93. The £1,000, with the £1,0:34 building fund. grant from the general county fund, represents the total amount placed at the disposal of the Local Governors, They should not, how- ever, forget that although the Local Governors were indemnified, a number of the local com- mittee were involved in a debt of £150. The accomplished task may not seem to be a great one, but if it is borne in mind that there is not a single rich man in the district, so far as our researches have extended, then we conclude that we have reason for mutual con- gratulation. Owing to the scarcity of funds, the Committss had to select a plain building, pre ferring of the two to obtain commodiousness inside to architectural ornameutation on the outside. To conclude, a few more dates in chronological order may be useful to the future local historian. On the 14th January, 1893, Mr L. J. Roberts re- signed the office of hon secretary, and Mr G. Gwyn Jones, B. A., the present headmaster of the School, and Mr B. C. Jones were appointed joint secre taries. April 12th, 1894, the first mesting of the local managers under the scheme was neld when Major Price Lewes of Tyglyn Aeron was elected chairman and Dr Davies was elected vice-chairman. They hold their offices up to the present time, and Mr E. Lima Jones, another of the governors, kindly allowed himself to be elected hon sec. He con- tinued to discharge the duties of the office till the 13th April, 1S97, a period of three years, during wnich we faced the most trying ordeals of our ex- perience. He was accorded a well-deserved vote of thanks for his services upon his giving up the seat ot office to Mr B. C. Jones, the present efficient secretary. December 20th, 1895, the site was approved of by the County Governing Body. February 1st, 1896, the approval of the Cnarity Commissioners to open the school in temporary premises was obtained. The temporary premises selected were the magistrates' room and assembly room in the Town Hall, the use of which was granted by the County Council and by the Trustees of the Monachty Estate. April 13th, 1896, Mr Gwyn Jones, B.A.. was appointed headmaster and the late Miss Hooke, mistress. May 12th, 1896, the school was opened with sixty chil- dren in the temporary premises. May 22nd, 1896, the site was bought from the owner and Trustees of the Llanaeron Estate. The Committee had selected a site in the same field close to the main road, but the negotiations failed. December 5th, 1896, the plans ot the school buildings by Mr LI. Bankes Price, B.A., of Lampeter, were selected out of the eight received. April 26th, 1897, the plans of the buildings, which had been previously sanctioned by the County Governing Body, were approved of with some modifications hy the Charity Commissioners. May 18th, 1897, eight tenders for the erection of the school buildings were opened and the tender of Mr E. Evans of Llanybyther for £1,525 was accepted. The extras approved of in the course of erection will cost about £75. The boundary walls, gates, water supply, and levelling grounds will cost about £175, making a total of about £1,800. August 1st, 1898, the buildings were completed. September 19th, 1898, opening of the new buildings. The sequel of the story remains to be told. It will he, let us hope, a tale of the frequent successes and achievements of the pupils of progress at every point, that will more than compensate for the worry and the effort and the sacrifice of the pioneeis. (Cheers.) The River Aeron runs but a short course, but it has lulledthe throbbingpulse and inspired the impetuous thoughts of one of the most magnetic of pulpit orators and reformers; it has fiowed in deep reveries into the heart of the commentator and in richest cadences into many a muse in its sudden and resistless floods like the rush of the brave on the foe, it has taught fearless- ness and victory to heroes of the Crimea, and par- ticularly of Redan. (Cheers.) Here at its aber may it also tell the secrets of the attainment of greatness to many a genius and of strength and grodness to every generation of boys and girls who will pass through this school. (Cheers.) Next came a song by Mr J. D. Jenkins, Feathers Hotel, accompanied by Miss Lewes, Tyglyn. Principal ROBERTS afterwards spoke and said he was very much gratified to be among them on that auspicious occasion. He felt so for more than one reason. He was giad to have the opportunity for the first time to meet the new Principal of St David's College. They might differ on many points, but whatever their diversities of opinion might be and their divisions in matters pertaining to society and politics and religion, it was quite evident that there was a strong and general tendency in favour of united action and sympathy and co-operation in this great question of education. (Cheers.) There- fore he felt sure that they would have no difficulty in striving together for the advancement of the highest educational interests of the Principality. (Cheers.) He had come to Wales at a period rich in opportunities and promise and he hoped his work in their midst would be happy and successful. (Cheers.) He was also glad to stand once more on the same platform with Mr Vaughan Davies, the member for the county. He was old enough to remember the early struggles of the Aberystwyth College in the years '72 and '73. He was then an active participator in the pioneer work of those days, so that he had fairly won the credit of being a true friend of education in the Principality. (Cheers.) He also rejoiced to take part in the in- auguration of a new epoch in the career of a school which had shown such fair promise in the past. He had watched with close interest the working and development of the active public life of the people of Aberayron and he would be inter- ested to observe the effect of the establishment of a county school in such a community, how it would tend to enrich its life, to raise its ideals, and to quicken its intellectual capabilities. They bad al- ready displayed an admirable spirit of unity and sustained aotion for a lengthened period. That fact testified in an un- mistakable manner that they possessed the faculty of combining for the attainment of a worthy object. (Cheers). As their Chairman had remarked, the work of the school during the short period of its exiEtence merited high praise. Gratitude was due to the Headmaster for the effort which he had made and was making. Ho had tackled his duties in the true spirit of a teacher, and in continuing to do so he would certainly receive his reward. (Cheers). They possessed admirable elementary schools in that district. He had had frequent opportunities of testing that statement. In such tests as the Queen's scholarship examinations and the matriculation examination of the London University that fact had been made evident. Not long ago three pupils from the Llanarth Board School had passed the matriculation examination of the London Univeisity of London, and quite recently Miss Hettie Williams, a name] which undoubtedly was familiar to them was placed ninth in the list out of many thousands in the Queen's scholarship examination. When they considered the difficulties undtr which these results were obtained the Tact caused them to marvel. Their object should be to strive to estab- lish the closest connection between the University and the intermediateischools and between the inter- mediate schools and the elementary schools. It had been erroneously stated that the methods were different. The elementary teacher ought to be thoroughly equipped for his work. The import- ance of doing so could not be over estimated. The custom had been to apprentice pupil teachers for a term of four years. During that period they had to discharge their duties as teachers and to carry on their studies preparatory for the Queen's scholar- ship examinations. That was a task which obviously militated against their success as teachers and students. (Cheers.) Under a recent arrange- ment of the Education Department it was competent for the school boards to send their selected pupil teachers for a course of instruction to their intermediate schools for two years and to serve a two years' period of apprenticeship. They did this under the Fettiniog Board and he strongly urged those of them who had seats oil the school boards of the district to consider the advisibility of adopting the same methods and thus help to raise the tone and quality of the teachers charged with the great responsibility of conducting the elementary schools of the country. (Cheers). The learned Principal closed all eloquent speech by enforcing this point. Song, Mrs Price Lewes (junior), accompanied by Miss Lewes, Tyglyn. The next speaker was to have been Mr L. J. Roberts, M.A., H.M.I.S. He, however, wrote to say that he was sorry that he was unable to be with them to see the culmination of such persistent efforts. He knew sometniug of the inception of the movement and therefore he could speak of the indebtedness of the Committee to Dr Davies whose faith never yielded to any discomfiture. Often- times he and his co-secretary had fits of lethargy, but Dr Davies, like the Socratic gadfly, always stung them out of their listlessness. He wished the school great success. Judging from his own knowledge of the excellent material provided by the elementary schools, which held an honourable place among the elementary schools of Wales, the Aberayron County School should a'so hold a high place among the intermediate schools of Wales. (Cheers.) Principal BEBB said he was there as a stranger and a learner and he had gleaned much knowledge from the speeches of Alderman Howell and Princi- pal Roberts. An Oxford professor had once given the advice to a student in .answer to the question How long he should dilate on a topic ? Finish when you have done" (Laughter.) He would ( follow that advice and as his knowledge of the sub- 1 ject of the working of the intermediate school? c system in Wales was confined to what he had read Is in the Chief Inspector's report and what te had heard that day, he would soon be cfone." The Inspector, referring to the entho rasm p/r the Principality in the cause of intermed'iiA^^flucation, said that he expected that the- new system would, soon transform the face of the country." He was not sure that that was an end to be desired, for the country was very beautiful. (Loud laughter.) They could not do without enthusiasm, as they could not manage a ship without having her under way." Still there was this to be remembered that < having her under way she was likely to proceed a long way in a given direction. It was wise to pause and to consider whether there was au advant age in taking another course. There was an in- ternal danger which beset them, that was in the too early transference of the children from the elementary schools to the intermediate schools aud before they were tic for it. It was easy to invest the children with a veneer of knowledge which < would quickly wear away. What they should aim at was to train and cultivate the minds of the children that no tt-st to which they W( re. put would make any difference, like the real mahogany which after the wear and tear of a hundred years but proved its genuineness and worth. There was an educa- tion by text books and cram books which proved illusory and disappointing in the examination room when a true test was applied. (Cheers.) There was another point which he would like to touch and that was that they who managed the schools and taught the pupils might po-sibly be too much occu- pied with results. They must look for results, hut they should not loose sight of the truth, that the education of children truly meant to tach them to help themselves. He reciprocated Principal Roberts's kind expressions He was sure that they could easily co-operate in efforts to promote the highest good of 'the people of Wales. He thanked the Chairman for his kind reception and he felt glad to have been among them for the first time. (Cheers.) Song, Miss Agnes Davies, London House, ac- companied by Miss Maggie Davies, her sister. Mr VAUGHAN DAVIES, M.P., said he was very proud to be among them to open that convenient school building. The intermediate school system was the principal branch of the tree of higher education which the people of Wales had planted and reared among them. The zeal of the people of Wales had been proverbial. In 1863, Sir Hugh Owen had first mooted his scheme for establishing a eoltege in Wales. After its establishment it had been supported for ten years by the generosity of the people. (Cheers.) That fact spoke for itself. He was afraid that the stress of the various stages of the work of education among them drove them to strive for; grants rather than for intellectual training aud culture. They frequently heard the remarks, in estimating;the progress of the teaching in elementary schools, we gained a grant of £90 last year, we hope to make it £100 next year." Now, that was not the spirit which should actuate teachers and boards. Again, there should be a. greater endeavour, in their various organ- isations, to fit the boys and girls of their schools for their ultimate callings and duties in life. (Cheers.) Farmers should be taught the principles of agriculture; sailors should be taught navigation. (Cheers). Girls who were to be artisans' and farmers' and labourers' wives should be taught cooking. There should be a greater adaptability of means to ends. He hoped the people would make a full use of the new schools and that they would do their duty in their time, as those who had gone before them had done their duty in providing the facilities for education into possession of which the present generation were just now entering. (Cheers.) Professor ROBERT WILLIAMS, M.A., Lampeter, was called upon, and he expressed his pleasure at being able to witness the completion of such excellent work at Aberayron. He wished them well, but as one of the Local Governors of Tregaron School he could only wish that they should equal the successes of Tregaron. (Laughter and cheers.) The CHAIRMAN* proposed a vote of thanks to the visitors and incidentally mentioned that they were ■ going in for teaching cooking and laundry work at Aberayron. (Cheers and laughter.) He fully agreed with his remarks that the young women should know the secrets of that important place, the ki'chen. (Cheers ) They should be initiated into the mysteries of stocks. (Cheers.) Especially was this important when wives and daughters had to minister to the sick and afflicted. He thanked the two learned gentlemen for their eloquent addresses. He was much struck by Principal Roberts's eloquent disquisition on the importance of rearing intelligent and well-trained pupil teachers. He thought they should all adopt the Festiniog method. (Loud cheers.) He thanked all the visitors for their attendance. (Cheers.) The proposal was seconded in a very sympathetic Welsh speech by Alderman MORGAN EVANS, J.P., 1 who contrasted the oppoitunities of the present with the difficulties of the past. lie expressed an earnest wish that the moral and religions standard of the people would advance with their intellectual development and that the education imparted would fit them not only for this life, but for the larger life that was to come. (Loud cheers.) The pro- posal was carried by acclamation. Dr DAVIES, vice-chairman of Local Governors, proposed a vote of thanks to the Chairman who had shown great business tact and demotion to the work they had successfully accomplished. (Cheers.) Mrs Price Lewes was good enough to prepare tea ] for the visitors that afternoon and that showed the, spirit which had actuated them throughout. (Cheers.) He would have wished that ] all the teachers who had been invitfed to meet them that day had attended. He fully acknowledged the remarks made by Principal Roberts on the relationship of the elementary schools co the inter- mediate schools. He appealed to those who had not paid their subscriptions to the full, now that the buildings were completed, to pay their promised subscriptions up to the full and those who had not contributed would, he hoped, now contribute, for they still had a liability of JE150 to wipe away. (Cheers.) The Rev J. M. GRIFFITHS seconded the motion, which was enthusiastically carried. The singing of the National Anthem terminated the meeting. Tea was afterwards served in the class rooms by Mrs Major Pryce Lewes, the Misses Lewes, Lieutenant and Mrs Lewes, Miss Anderson, and others to about 200 people.