The Cardigan Bay Visitor

RAILWAY ACCIDENT NEAR LLANIDLOES. ONE KILLED AND SIX INJURED. An accident happened to two passenger trains on the Cambrian Railway at Tylwch Station on Saturday morning, whereby a young woman named Margaret Rowlands, aged twenty-five, daughter of a platelayer, was killed and two others were seriously injured, while four more received slight injuries. The accident was the result of a collision and was caused by an excursion train running into a down mail train which was standing stationary on the down line. The two eugiues gut looked to- gether, while the van of the excursion train was telescoped backwards into a bogey carriage in the rear. Tylwch Station is situated four miles below Llanidloes, in alovely valley on the Mid-Wale^branch and the station enjoys a greit reputation among tourists for the pretty way in which it is laid out. Information of the accident was immediately telegraphed to the hea i quarters of the Cambrian Railway at Oswestry and a breakdown gang was at once despatched, with the workmen travelling Mr W. H. Gough (superintendent of the line), Mr Herbert Jones (locomotive superintendent), and the a sistant engineers. It should be stated theup-line was not fouled by the accident, and after a short delay in waiting for other engines the excursionists aad passengers were able to resume their journey. Medical assistance soon came to haud in Dr Vaughan Owen; of Llanidloes, who attended to the injured, all of whom are residents in the district, and who were afterwards sent home by a special train. When the collision occurred the driver of the mail train, R. Jones, pluckily stuck to his post and escaped uninjured. The driver of the excursion, Samuel Hopkins, and the stoker, Richard Evans, were both badly bruis d, but otherwise were not seriously injured. Mills has a cut across his face, from the eye down tolthe neck, which bled profusely, the arteries being severed. Joseph Jones and D. J. Pugh were seriously injured in the ribs, but the injuries to the other passengers were slight. The excursionists proceeding with the journey treated their escape with levity. They went through Llanidloes Station, three miles fron the scene of the disaster, singing "Sweet Rosy O'Grady," and were also noisy at Welshpool and Oswestry

WESTERN SEA FISHERIES. QUARTERLY MEETING OF COM- MITTEE. The quarterly meeting of the Western Sea Fisheries Committee was held at the Police Station, Portmadoc, on Tuesday, when there were present Mr Henry Bonsall, Aberystwyth, chairman, pre- siding Colonel 0. Ll. J. Evans, Pwllheli Messrs Harry Clegg, Anglesey Lewij Lewis, Barmouth John Williams, Borth, Portmadoc John Hughes, Portdinorwic Richard Davies, Portmadoc Raudal Casson, clerk Richard Davies, bailiff for the ■oathern district; David Pritchard, bailiff for the central district, and Robt. Jones, bailiff for the northern district. FINANCIAL POSITION. At the Finance Committee meeting held at the outset, the CLERK announced that there was now a balance in hand of £234 12* 9d. After paying all expenses up to December next, there would he a good balance in hand. Cardigan County Council was the only county council behindhand in paying the precept. Colonel LLOYD EVANS—We are cow in a better position than we have ever been. Mr CLEGG—And ws must jog the Cardigan County Council, so as to furtner improve our posi- tion. A DEFAULTING TRAWLER. The Clerk reported that a, steam trawler from Milford Haven had been fined £15 and costs at Aberayron for having trawled within the prohibited limits. Evidence had been given by three person* engaged on board three fishing boats, on whose information proceedings were instituted and they each claimed 10s expenses and £ ] for loss sustained in attending the Police Court. The Aberayron magistrates allowed each witness 10s, but ieffc the claim for loss of time to the Committee. In the discussion which followed, it was stated that the fine was not paid to the Committee, but to the Cardigan County Council. The CLERK expressed the opinion that neither the County Council nor the C jmmittee were en- titled to the fine. He believed that it ought to be paid to the Exchequer. Mr RICHARD DAVIES—It is certainly no fair that Cardigan County Council should have all this money. Toe Committee will be out of pocke; over the proceeding- to the extent of about f6. The CHAIRMAN—We have to choose the worst of two evils. It is better for the fine to go to Cardigan County Council, who pay to.vards the general ex- penses of the Committee, thau to the Exchequer. He added with regard to the cldm of the three witnesses that it was absolutely esssntial that tae Committee should have the assistance of the fisher- men, and he was in favour of paying them the sum they asked. Colonel EVANS proposed that the Committee should pay them £1 each in additiou to the 10s allowed by the magistrates and Mr CLEGG seconded the proposition, which was agreed to 1 unanimously. The CHAIRMAN said special praise was dn8 to Bailiff Richard Davies for the raanBer he collected the evidence for the case. He had exercised great vigilance. INABILITY TO ATTEND. Letters regretting enforced absence were read from Mr E. Wood, Conway Mr Edward Owen, Carnarvon Dr Charles Williams, Dyffryn and Mr W. R. M. Wynne, Peniarth, Towyu. ASSISTANCE GRANTED. The chief constables for Carnarvon, Cardigan, and Anglesey wrote stating that the police would assist the officers of the Committee in every way in their power in carrying out tLe regulations. The CLERK said he had received no reply fram Major Beat, chief constable for Merioneth. OJTICERS' QUARTERLY REPORTS—SEA EEDLF. NETS. The CHAIRMAN said the three officers had dis- charged their duties in a most exemplary manner during the past quarter. Every portion of the dis trict had been regularly visited. They had reported several irregularities to the Clerk, and in the event of a continuance of such irregularities proceedings would be taken. Bailiff Robert Jones of the northern division reported that the mussel season, which opened on September 1st, promised to be prosperous. The fishermen said mu-sels were very plentiful and they expressed pleasure at the protection afforded by the Committee. In three hours one fisherman procured five and a quarter bags which he sold for £1 Is. Several women made from 21s to 22s 61 by means of picking mussels. Usually, the Conway and Redwharf bays were fished by the Isle of Man and Hoylake boats, but during last quarter none of them had visited the bays, having found good fish- ing off the N. W. lightship in their own district. The boats would probably visit the bays shortly and stay until Christmas. No doubt they would find the na) s well stocked with fish. Plaice fishing in Holyhead had not been a3 good as in the corres- ponding quarter of last year. Codfish, congereels, and lobsters were more plentiful than ever. One boat landed 1,420 lobsters during the season and secured good prices for them. The lowest price was 9d per pound. Trawliug in Carnarvon Biy had been poor as the result of the calm weather. When trawlers got enough wind to drag their nets they found good fishing, particularly in soles. Some boats had caught 100 pounds in one drag. There had been an influx of mackerel in the bay, but the calm weather prevented the boats from working their lines. Mr CLEGG said he was told there were very few mackerel and he asked whether the Bailiff was certain on that point; and the BAILIFF replied in the affirmative. In answer to the Chairman, the BAILIFF said he had found nets in several boats with meshes not of the legal size. He had warned them not to use them. Colonel EVANS asked if he had any trouble in boarding the trawlers and he replied in the nega- tive. Bailiff David Pritchard of the middle division reported that first class trawlers had done well in Pwllheli on the average better t'1an last year. No strange trawlers had landed fish at Pwllheli during the last three mon'hs. So It had been very plenti- ful in Cardigan Bay. The fish had come within the limits and were on the small grounds of Port madoc harbour, where good catches were made when the breeze was strong enough for trawling. He found that first and second class trawlers were adhering strictly to the bylaws. About twenty Brixham trawlers were reported in Cardigan Bay during the quarter. They landed very large catches at Milford, with a large peicentage of soles. Good nrices were obtained. The crab and lobster fishing had greatly improved since his last report, being more numerous, and larger, and of finer quality. Mackerel had been very plentiful between Njvin and Ki'an Head, but not sotplentifu) in Pwllheli Bav as last year. Draw netting had proved fairly successful, but he had found some difficulty with the owners of the nets on account of their inclina- tion to take advantage of the sections of the Act providing for the use of sea- needle nets Fishermen were now using draw nets of bout sixty yards long with a two inch mesh, They caught and destroyed a large number of immature fish under the pre- tence that they were fishing for sea-needles He had warned them on several occasions, but they said they were complying with the bylaws. It was reported to him that there was illegal crab and lobster fishing going on at Llwyngwril. He went there, but found nothing wrong. He also found that there was no truth in report. from Barmouth about illegal draw-netting and unlawful devices for catch- ing&fi*h by a party of visitors. Long line fishing had been good, some persons making from 10, to 12, a day. Fish came well into shore this summer. Mussel fishing opened at fortmadoc on September 1st. Splendid hauls were made, the fishermen earning on an average 9 a day Shrimps and prawns of an excellent quality had been found in abundance at Barmouth and Llwyngwril. On cruising through Pwllheli Bay he found it swarm- iiig with young seals which were supposed to be herring seals. Mr JOHN WILLIAMS said there were bitter com- plaints about the capture of immature fish under the pretence of catching sea needles and he thought something should be done to remedy the evil. The CHAIRMAN sai l it was quite right for Mr Williams to mention the IIlatter and it now devolved upon the Committee to decide whether it was worth while going to ths expense of making a new bylaw dealing with the matter. Alderman LEWIS—Can we prosecute without making a new bylaw? The CHAIRMAN—I do not think we have the power. The CLERK said there was no bylaw regulating the size of the mesh for catching sea needles. How- ever, the Committee could take action against those using nets not in compliance with the bylaws. The BAILIFF, in reply to questions, said large numbers of sprats, flatfish, < tc., were caught by these persons who excused themselves by saying they were only fishing for sea needles. Moreover, these nets were used where there were no sea needles at all. No doubt they also caught salmon in addi- tion to sprats and flatfish The CLERK said :it «.would be difficult to prove intent on the part of the defaulters. The Bailiffs for the northern and southern dis- tricts said they had experienced no trouble in this connection in their districts. The Committee decided that it was not worh while formulating a new bylaw and left the matter in the hands of the Clerk with power to take action if he deemed it advisable. Bailiff Rd. Davies reported that trawl fishing had not been carried on by local fisherrren in generd. The tine weather was favourable to boating and the fishermen made a lot of money by means of their pleasure boats. The New Quay trawl fishermen informed him that the trawling grounds were well stocked with prime fish. Mackerel were plentiful, large quantities being caught when the wind was favourable. Plaice fishing in the Dovey had been better this summer than for many years. Lobsters were plentiful at Llwyngwril and fine prawns had been taken in large numbers beWeen Fring and Barn Reef. In fact, prawns, lobsters, together with crabs had been abundantly caught all along the coast down to Cardigan. Beach fishing had been moderately good at Towyn and fair at Borth. He found it difficult to supervise the coast in connection with fishing for lobsters, crabs, and prawns, as nearly all persons fished for them at low water. Everywhere offenders pleaded ignorance of the law. The regulations which were posted up « ere being continually torn off purposely. He had failed to post the bylaws in prominent places at Llwyngwril, Tonfanau, Towyn, Borth, and the north end of the Marine-terrace, Aberystwyth. The Aberystwyth Corporation had given him authority to place the regulation in prominent places at the Harbour and Alltwen beach. He was not allowed to post them on the property of the Cambrian Railway Company without the permis- sion of Smith and Son. The cockle beds on the south side of the Dovey were stocked with large cockles of good quality and the Y nyla bed was also well stocked. Herring fishing had not yet commenced. After some discussion as to the posting of the regulations, it was agreed that the bailiffs should submit comprehensive reports on the matter to the next meeting. ANNUAL REPORT. The report for the year ending June 30th, 1S99, which will be submitted to the county councils, was laid before the Committee and was as follows "The reports of the fishery bailiffs show that the work of this Committee is progressing very satisfactorily. The bylaws are now well known throughout the district and the fishermen ob-en e them willingly as a rule. There is occasional difficulty with trawlers, but the bailiffs keep strict watch and insist on the bylaws as to length of beam and iz" of mesh being strictly kept. Mussel and cockle gathering is now an important industry throughout the district and the bylaws prohibiting the taking of small shell fish and providing for their return to the beds has had a beneficial effect. The fish are of good quality and, except at Ynyslas, near bel" dovey, there are large and increasing quantities gathered for market. At Ynyslas shifting prevent the increasp. of the quantity of mu-sls. In consequence of statements made by fishermen that large quantities of fish were destroyed by torpedo firing from H.M.S. "Colossus" an inter- view was arranged with Captain Johnston, R.N.. on board his vessel. The Western Sea Fisheries deputation was received very coulially by Captain Johnston who, on hearing the nature of th. complaint, promised that torpedo pracice should not in future be earned on where any injury could be done to the fishing industry. There have been two prosecutions for offences against the bylaws by steam trawling within the limits. In one case, at Aberayron, the defendant was fined £10 and costs; the other case, at P*vll- he!i, was dismissed. The proposed amalgamation with the Lancashire Sea Fisheries district ha* not yet been completed, but the draft order has been made and promulgated for the approval of the various bodies concerned and the matter is pro- ceeding satisfactorily. Dilegates from the Com- mittee attended the annual conference at the Board of Trade in London in June last. Discussion took place and general dissatisfaction was expressed by the dele- gates at the want of energy shown by the Board of Trade in carrying through legislation which has been continuously urged upon that Board by sea fisheries committees since 1S90, particularly with regard to the expenses of sea fisheries committees being defrayed from the Imperial Exchequer, as embodied in the resolution of the Carnarvon County Council of 1891 and other matters calculated to effect the objects of the sea fisheries committees." THE AMALGAMATION SCHEME. SPIRITED REMARKS BY THE CHAIRMAN. The Clerk, explaining the present position of matters with reference to the proposed amalgama- tion of the Western district with the Lancashire district, said copies of the draft order had been sent to each of the four county councils in the Vv estern district. The Merioneth.. oun'y Council had formally approved of the order as accepted by the Western Committee. He had received no objection of any description to the order, and no doubt had the Board of Trade received objections they would have informed the Committee of them. He had received a letter from the Board of Trade stating that after carefully considering the resolu tions passed hy the Committee with respect to the draft order, thay had decided that they could not insert the clause suggested by the Committee giving power to determine the amalgamation of the districts at the expiration of any quinquennium after the coming into force of the Order, as there would appear to be no statutory authority to provide by the Order for a union determinable otherwise than in the manner provided by the Act. The CHAIRMAN asked if it was necessary that the four county councils should express their approval and the Clerk replied that they could object. It did not matter whether they expressed approval or took no action. Mr CLEGG said the Anglesey County Council were strongly in favour of adding the quinquennium clause. fhey did not see why the western district could not, at the end of five years, determine the amalgamation if they so desired. As matters stood, the power to determine was left entirely in the hands of the Board of Trade. Alderman LEWIS asked if the amalgamation wa.s likely to come to force soon ? The CHAIRMAN —In about a year. The CLERK, however, said if no objection was raised to the Order in Parliament, it would come into force early next year, that was, provided the Committee decided that day to waive their applica- tion to insert the quinquennium clause. The CHAIRMAN sa.id the Western Committee, as a body, had approved of the Order long ago. If one of the county councils obstructed, the Com- mittee could not help it. Mr RICHARD DAVIES said Carnarvon County Council also favoured the quinquennium clause. The CHAIRMAN said to proceed he was prepared to move the adoption of the Order as recommended by the Board of Trade, that was, leaving out the quinquennium clause. Mr CLEGG—If you do, I shall move an amend- ment.. The CHAIRMAN—That is the worst of it. We shall never be able to get on this way. Mr JOHN HPGIIES suggested that the matter should be left in abeyance for three months in order to ascertain definitely the opinion of all con- cerned on the matter. He took it that the time for objections had not expired. The CHAIRMAN—Yes, it has. Mr CLEGG—Oh, no. If we approved of the Order to-day then the time would be past; but if we defer consideration the time will not be past. The CHAIRMAN—But the Beard of Trade have power to overrule our objection. Mr RICHARD DAVIES—In that case we will have done our best. I am in favour of making another appeal to insert the quinquennium clause. The CHAIRMAN—But they say definitely in their letter that they will not insert the clause. Mr CLKGG-They want the power to determine in their own hands. This is not right. The scheme should be tried as an experiment for five years, and in the event of matters not proceeding satisfactorily power should be given both the western and Lanca- snire districts to determine the amalgamation it they so wished. The CHAIRMAN failed to see why there should be any fear whatever, seeing that the maximum rate would not he more than one-sixteenth of a penny. Moreover it was not likely that at any time such a large district like Lancashire would ever increase the rate to the present rate of the western district. To his mind this hesitation on the part of some of the Welsh counties was only pusillanimity. All along there had been want of confidence on the fHrt of certain counties in the western district. Why should they be so loth to accept this benefit from English counties ? There was great work to be done in the western district and they were all aware that the Western Committee could not hope to do work efficiently. Then why in the name of all that was reasonable did they not let those who were willing to help them do so ? They were playing.1 rlog-in-the-manger game at present. Not only would the Committee gain in supervision of fisheries by amalgamation, but they would also gain pecuniarily. They had for years contended that the large cities and towns in England to whom the mjor portion of the fish caught was sent should contribute towards the cost of the fisheries and now that they were steering in the very direc- tion they had been aiming for for years they were likely to defeat their own ends. Lancashire was willing to assist them and the Western Committee now raised these finicking points which would wrest from the Committee that which they had been striving for for so long. Mr CLEGG-I must rise to a point of order. I must ohj to the observations and discussions of the county councils being described in these terms. The CHAIRMAN—I must repeat w hat I say. They are but finicking points, or what you might call technical quibbles. I am prepared to resign the chair on this question, with which, as you know, I have identified myself to a considerable extent. I believe amalgamation with Lancashire will benefit the fisheries in the western district greatly. I am prepared to resign on this matter. In fact, if the Committee do not proceed to a head now, I shall not feel justified in retaining the chair. Alderman LEWIS LEWIS said perhaps those county councils who were inclined to waver did not know that at prtsent the Committee spent £720 a year iti looking after the fisheries of the district, whereas under the amalgamation scheme they would only have to pay £162 a year. The longer amalgamation was delayed the greater the loss to the counties. It meant a loss of £558 per annum. Seeiug that the district would benefit financially and in supervision why this dilly-dallying? Mr RICHARD DAVIF. said he had supported the scheme from the start, but he thought there should be some provision for determining amalgamation in five years in the event of the fishermen in their district finding it detrimental. He did not see why ohj-ction should be raised to the inclusion of such a clause. Mr CLEGG agreed with Mr Davies, He had also been strongly in favour of amalgamation, but he was against the hands of the western district being tied for ever. Let them have a chance in five years to say whether they approved or disapproved the experiment. The Chairman having said that perhaps it was as well to defer the matter, seeing that there was a small attendance, Mr RICHARD DAVIES moved that the matter should be deferred for three months and that a further appeal to insert the five years' clause should be made to the Board of Trade. Mr CLEGG seconded the proposition which was agreed to. TRAWLING AT COWAY. The Board of Trade wrote stating that not suffi cient notice had been given in respect of the by- law adopted at a special meeting prohibiting traw- ling over the mussel beds at Conwaj. On the motion of Mr JOHN HUSHES, seconded by Alderman LEWIS, the motion to adopt the bylaw was confirmed. DEFERRED. The question of making a donation to the funds of the Conway Fishery Board was deferred to the next meeting. M CSS EL BEDS. Alderman LEWIS a-kerl what had been done with regard to the mussel heds at Portmadoc? The CLERK leplied that he had been prevented from making inquiries owing to the sad death of Major Roche. He would approach the new owner as soon as possible. Alderman LEWIS said he would like the Com- mittee to have control over all mussel beds in the district. Had they control over private beds? The CLERK—Nc. OYSTERS. Aiderman LEWIS afterward asked whether it was not possible to do something to revive the oyster industry in the district ? Many years ago the dis- trict derived much pr tit from this source. The Committee had power to spend money in cultivating and developing this branch of fishery. The CHAIRMAN—It coltll only be done by means of oyster hatche.ries. Perhaps amalgamation with Lancashire will bring this about. (Laughter.) Alderman LEWIS-I shall introduce the matter again before long. The Committee then rose.

YARMOUTH. A CALL.—The Rev D. Arberth Evans, Baptist minister, has received a call from the Welsh Baptist Church at Pwllheli, which, however, he has decided not to accept. VISITORS. —Although several families have arrived during the week, the exndJS has been very heavy of late. Lodging-house keepers have, however, not had much cause for complaint during this summer LiFEB.)AT PRACTICE.—On Tuesday moraine the lifeboat had a practice. The hoat was launched at ten o'clock and taken out as far as the mouth of the Harbour and back. There was a high wind and the sea was rough. CHAPEL.—On Sunday the pulpit of the Engllsh Presbyterian Chapel was occupied by the Rev Ellis Jones William-, the missionary, who has iust returned from South Africa. Next Sunday the Rev F. Tunbridge will preach at the Wesleyan Chapel. Twenty-two boys from an orphan home will take part in the service. SALMON FISHING.—One of the first salmon ciught here for many years was netted by some cf Mr Buckley's employees on Friday. Years ago salmon were as plentiful in the Estuary as are bass at the prescut time and their scarcity now is a mystery. Fewer salmon have been caught in this district during the present session than iu any previous year, only two licences having been taken out. VIVISECTION.—A prize of five guineas is offered by Mrs C. Bastian, through Miss Cobbe, for poems of four or five stanzas each, in English and in Welsh on the subject of vivisection, adapted to be sung to the air of the "March of the Men of Harlech." The prize will be given on the 1st November and may be contended tor separately in either language, each amounting to two and a half guineas. Poems to be sent to Mr A. J. Hewins, St. George's, Barmouth. AFTER A Low ABSENCE.—At present the Rev Ellis Jones Williams, who has recently returned from fcouth Africa, is staying here. The rev. gentleman is a native of the town, from which he has been absent for about sixteen years, having been for some years at Lagos as missionary and afterwards at Natal, South Africa. He has been engaged in mission work altogether for twenty-one years. Mr Williams is not in the best of health and is going to take twelve months' rest. THE WEATHER.—On Friday and Saturday morn- ing a slight gale passed over this neighbourhood accompanied by some heavy showers. Rain was very acceptable because since Whitsuntide until this week very little rain has fallen. This has been the driest season experienced for the last twenty years. Nevertheless inhabitants living within the area of the Urban District Council have had no reason to complain of the scarcity of water, a full supply both for domestic and sanitary pur- poses being available. Had the new waterworks not beeu completed twelve months ago, no doubt the town would have suffered like other", atering places from the long drought. Farmers are com- plaining bitterly of the effect of the dry weather and not without cause, the aftermath being com- pletely scorched up. At the cattle fair held a Dyffryn on Saturday buyerg were very scarce and there was a drop of from forty to fifty shillings in prices of bullocks in consequence. Miss COBBE S OFFER.—Miss Cobbe's generous offer is being taken up with enthusiasm by all sections, rich and poor, of the inhabitants and the success of the project is now beyond doubt. At- ready, before any formal appeal has been made to the public, about £O has been promised towards the erectwn of a building on the site fixed upon On Friday evening a large and representative meeting as held at Board Schoolroom to consider what further steps be taken in the matter. The first item on the agenda was the election of officers Major Corder was elected chairman; Alderman Lewis Lewis, J.P., vice-chairman Mr John Jones Brynteg, secretary and Mr J. A. Rowlands N: and S, W, Bank, treasurer. A general committee had been previously appointed, out of which an executive committee numbering twenty-one has been selected. After a long discussion it, was unanimously decided that the Urban District Council should be asked to act as trustees on behalf of the ratepayers. A draft of a circular appealing for subscriptions was submitted and approved of. It was understood that canvassers and collectors will be appointed at an early date to call upon the inhabitants. The Executive Committee was called on Monday evening. URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL, TUESDAY, SEP- TEMBER 19TH.—Present The Rev. Gwynoro Davies (chairman).. presiding; Messrs John Richards, E. Richards, O. W. Morris, H. Wynne Williams, Owen Williams, Hugh Evans, D. E. Davies, Robert Williams, Edward Williams, Wm. Owen W. George, clerk Owen Jones, assistant clerk J. Adams, surveyor; D. Owen, rate collector, a.nd Dr. Hughes, medical officer. CONVENING COMMITTEES Mr Wynne Williams asked whether the Surveyor had a report to make in regard to the bathing ?— The Surveyor said some members were to have accompanied him to the bathing grounds He had been there, but no one else had come. Mr O. W. Morris said he had not been there, and Mr Wynne Willia'ns said he had not because he had received no notice of the time.—The Surveyor said he was not asked to be the convener.—The Chairman said, to avoid any misunderstanding ia future, it would be well that in all cases of this kind the Surveyor should convene the meetings.—It was agreed to enter a resolution on the minutes to this eff ct. LOANS. Mr Wynne Williams asked whether the Councl were not now in a position to proceed to obtain the loans_required?—The Clerk explained the Council's position in the matter, and aid he was going to suggest that the Council should take the matter into careful consideration immediately with the view of applying for a provisional order. — On the suggestion of the Mayor, it was decided that the Council should rmet in committee to consider the matter on the following Tuesday. MISCELLANEOUS There was a meeting of a committee of the whole Council on September 12th, the Rev Gwynoro Davies pr* siding. It was resolved that building sites be sold at 3s 6d per yard and that the General Purposes Committee should inspect sites and report to the Council. A letter was read from the Local Government Boird enclosing a lvtter from Mr Buckley in reg-ird to the state of the drains near the Gables. The Surveyor was directed to inspect the place and report to the Council which would at once give instructions for the carrying out of the necessary work. The Chairman gave the result of his negotiations with Mr Denniss in regard to M ss Cobbe's offer. The Cambrian Railway Company had now promised a suitable site on nominal terms. On the proposition of Mr John Richards, seconded by Mr D. E. Davies, it was resolved unanimously that the Council expressed its thanks to the Cambrian Railwiy Company and to Mr Denniss, the general manager, for their generous offer of a suitable site for the erection of a free library. The following members were appointed to represent the Council on the Library Committee: Messrs Evan Richards, John Richards, Edward Williams, O. W. Morris. In regard to the Hendre- eiriau easements, the Clerk was instructed to reply to the letter of Messrs Clayton, Son, and Fergus stating the Council's views on the matter.—The Clerk said, in reference to the last matter in the report, it would be remembered that the position that day week was this The solicitors asked the Council to enter into an agreement to pay £70 and interest at the rate of four per cent. from the time the Council went into possession of the easements. The Council were willing to pay £70, bu; objected to the payment of the interest. He (the Clerk) wrote to that effect and had received a reply iu which, although they did not "e how the Council could object seeing that they were trespassers and had no title to the place, they agreed to accept £70 with interest at the rate of 2 per cent. He did not know whether the Councif would agree to that. —It was agreed to accept these terms.—The Clerk said he had received a letter from a person applying for land for building sites.—It was decided to con- sider the letter in committee and the report was then adopted. GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE'S REPORT. The General Purposes Committee recommended that the application of Mr Bishcp for a supply of water for his new building in Park road be granted, and also that of Mr R. Griffiths, Llecheiddior, for water, to be supplied by meter at the rate of 9d per 1,000 gallons for the first 100,000 gallons, he to bear the expense of fixing aud tapping. It was stated that water was being used by Mr David Davies for his laundry for which he had not asked the Council's consent and it was decided that he be charged £6 per annum. A letter was read from the Rev E. Hughes in reference to the water supply of St. John's Church and it was resolved that the Com- mittee should meet on the following Monday to test the pressure in company with the Rev E. Hughes. A letter was read from Mr William Davies, Beach-road, complaining that the man in charge of the contractor's refuse cart had refused to take away the refuse from his shop. A member of the Committee stated that the contractor (Mr Edward Williams) had been seen on the subject and had promised to give the matter his immediate at- tention. Mr Griffith Jones, Taicroesion, applied for a reduction in the water account. It was recommended that the resolution previously come to should be adhered to. A petition sent in by the owner and tenants of the Hendremynach district requesting the Council to extend the main sewer to that part of the town was considered, and the Committee recommended that the work be done when the loans are obtained. A letter was read from the Misses Thompson complaining of the insufficiency of the supply of water to St. Margaret's and Minymor, and it was recommended that a. larger pipe belaid along Marine road to Marine gardens and as far as Minymor.—The Chairman, referring to the complaint regarding the cartag? of refuse, said there was no doubt that Mr Ed. Williams, i Cae'rdaniel, was anxious to carry out the instructions of the Council to the letter, and he stated distinctly that he wished to be told if there was a recurrence of the cau-se of complaint and he would take the cartage out of the hands of the present persons and carry out the contract to the letter.—The Surveyor was requested to inform Mr Williams at once should there be another refusal to carry the refuse.—The report of the Committee was adopted. FINANCE. At the Finance Committee meeting the Collector presented his monthly statement which was con- sidered very satisfactory. He also submitted a list of persons wno had come into possession on the 12th of May and claimed abatements as from the 1st of April to the former date. As the rate was made subsequent to the 12th May, the Com- mittee were of opinion that no abatement could be- made, but decided to refer the matter to a com- mittee of the whole Council, as also the claim of the Pwllheli Granite Company for the sum of £883. 0d.—The report was adopted. A SATISFACTORY REPORT. The Clerk read an extract from the report of the County Medical Officer which stated that there were 427 deaths in the urban districts during the year, being at the rate of 18'3 per thousand of the population. The highest death-rate was that of Towyn which was 21'6 per thousand and the lowest that of Bumouth, U'.2 per thousand. (Hear, hear.) The corresponding average death-rate for the urban districs of England was 19.—The Mayor said it would be well if the Council could get that published in every newspaper throughout t -e king- dom. It would be a great inducement to people to come to Barmouth.—The Clerk said these facts ought to be better known than they were. THE STATE OF GIBRALTAR-TERRACE. MISUNDERSTANDINGS. The Medical Officer reported that some old drain pipes, flushing pins, &c., had been stored in a house near Gibraltar terrace giving rise to a serious nuisance and some closets in the same street were not in proper order.—The Surveyor said some difficulty had been experienced in discovering the owner of this house. He had written to Mr W. R. Davies for the address of the owner.—The Chair- man said the Council had been saddled with a good deal of responsibility in reference to Gibraltar-terrace. Sometime ago the Council spent a good deal of time in connection with those premises. They were at it for months and months. The proprietors came before them and applied for extension of time and after a lot of dilly-dallying he (the speaker) thought they were going to have a drastic reformation. However, by-and-bye a few improvements were carried out and he must say that he was astonished and certainly disappointed when the Surveyor and the Medical Officer presented a report stating that the condition of the houses was perfectly satisfac- tory and that it was not necessary to insist upon carrying out any further alterations although the floors had been stated to be simply rotten and the walls in a filthy state. The Council, of course, could not go behind their Surveyor and Medical Officer and all chat was done there was to lay a few pipes down there and do a little whitewashing. However, they were blamed and accused of neglect- ing their duty.—The Chairman then read an extract from a letter which had been received from Mr Hewings, agent to Mrs Talbot, calling atten- tion to the deplorable state of the tenements known as Gibraltar-terrace. Some of the tenants had complained to him of the bad smell arising from one ot the tenements and on going down there he fouod ome old diain pipes taken up some time ago stored in one of the tenements in the midst of other filth and dirt and that one of the two w.c. s provided for the use of the six or seven tenements was out of order. The floors were rotten and the slops from some of the tenements soaked into those beneath. There were also holes in the roofs through which cats walked in and out and the sky in one tenement could be seen through the roof. The rent of one of these tenements had Just.been doubled under threat of ejectment. The Chairman added that if these premises were in such a condition as this, the Surveyor and the Medical Officer ought to have acquainted the Council with the fact. When the Council received a report con- demning these houses they moved at once and they did not go further than they did because they were told that the premises had been put in proper 1 order. If things were as stated the premises ought to be condemned out and out. He did not wish it to be said that they winked at those kind of things They dId not wish to keep things of that kind trom the public any more than they wished things which reflected credit on the town. The Council did their duty and he did not think a single report of that kind had been made without their having it—Mr Hugh Evans said the Council k AU the correct facts of that matter. He had been on the Council for two years and he never heard a complaint made as to those houses. It was very strange if the place was so bad as that no complaint had been made to the Council.—Mr Wynne Williams said he recollected a complaint being made at the Council and the Surveyor "Wed on the matter.—The Medical Officer said that was so and the premises were at that time put in a satisfactory condition, a fairly- condition, a.s he was able to judge.— The Chairman You were satisfied ?— The Medical OEhoer Yes, I was satiilfied,as far as I was able to judge. But the place where the pipes are stored is opposite, not in Gibraltar-terrace at all.—The Surveyor No. —The Medical Officer added that the door of the place was continually kept locked. He did not know what was in there. He was unable to get in there for some time, but when he got the door opened he found these pipes. A woman lived above. The place was distinctly unhealthy. — The Mayor asked whether it was true that there wre only two w.c.'s for seven tenements, one of which was out of order.—The Surveyor said there were only five families occupying tenements there, one of which was not in Gibraltar-terrace. There was a good deal of difference between two w.c.'s fur seven families and two for fcur. — Mr Evan Richards said that matter came before the Council in Mr Blackburn's time.—The Surveyor Yes, and this house mentioned in the letter was not occupied fiom that time until recently. -Mr John Richards thought the Surveyor ought to have been aware t .at these things were stored here.—The Surveyor I did not store them.—Mr John Richards But you oughtJ to have known where they were.—On the Chairman's sugj<stion it. was agreed that the Surveyor, the M-dical Officer, and two members of the Council should visit Gibraltar terrace so as to ascertain the exact condition of the place. —Mr Hugh Evans and Mr Wynne Williams were delegated to do this, the Chairman observing that the Council would lose no rime in doing was necessary there.—The Chairman then read the remainder of Mr Hewings's letter which referred to a slaughter-house near Gibraltar-terrace, to which, the letter stated, there was no proper approach and animals had to be forced up and down the steps so as to reach it, the result being that most painful epi-odes were wit- nessed there at times. Apart, however, from the humane view of the matter, the path was much frequented by visitors. The Medical Officer assured him that he had complained of it to the Council over and over again. Unless effectual means were taken to deal with the case, he would ay the facts before the Local Government Board. —In reply to Mr Hugh Evans, the Medical Officer said he had complained about the matter to the old Local Board until he was sick of doing so. He could not say that he had complained to the present Council.—The Chairman You did so once.—Mr Hugh Evans sai I it must have been be- fore his time.—The Medical Officer Yes. I should think so.—Mr D. E. Davies asked the Medical Officer whether the placs was not in a satisfactory state as far as drainage went ?—The Medical Officer No; it is not satisfactory. Mr Davies: In what respect?—The M dical Officer: Ian under the impression that it is not drained. Mr Davies said the Medical Officer ought to have made certain upon thepoint before making those com- plaints. L he place was as efficiently drained as any slaughter-house in the place. It was much better drained than the slaughter-house belonging to the Carnarvon Corporation, he had seen. —Mr Hugh Evans agreed and said he did not think the Council should listen to every Tom, Dick, and Harry.—Mr John Richards said the Medical Officer reported upon that matter some years ago and as a result a lot of money was spent on the budding in order to put it into a state satis- factory to Mr Blackburn. He did not think there was a better drained slaughter-house anywhere now.—The Chairman said he now remembered the whole circumstances.—Mr John Richards added that some people were for ever pciinting out black spots on others when they were not as white as they thought they were themselves.—The Medical Officer said he had not visited the premises since he made that report. There were no drains at that time, he thought.—Mr D. E. Davies: I thought by this letter you had reported upon it recently. The Medical Officer said he never men- tioned the date, but said he had frequently reported the matter. It was decided on the proposition of Mr D. E. Davies that the Surveyor, Medical Officer, and Messrs Wynne Williams and Hugh Evans should also visit the slaughter-house and report. RATE COLLECTOR'S REPORT. The Rate Collector reported that he had collected rates to the amount of £1,349 since his 1.st report, the arrears outstanding at present being £1,984 8s 8d. Mr Owen Williams said that was very satisfactory.—The Chairman said that was a very good amount to collect in four weeks and if he col- lected as much during the next month they would be more than satisfied. If possible he would like to see the arrears under £:)00 or £400 by the next ordinary meeting, He thought the Collector had done his work admirably. He had started this year again even better than last year and he (the speaker) thought the Council would not grudge a word of praise to an excellent official. He hoped the Collector would not catch another cold. It might be that he got too hot by arguing in the houses and caught cold aftsr coming ou He ought to learn to be cool under such circumstances like he (the Chairman) was. (Laughter.) IMPROVED DELIVERY OF MAILS. A letter was read from the Cambriati Railway Company stating that after the 1st of October the morning mail would arrive at Barmouth at 6-50 a.m. (Hear, hear.) MISS COBBE'S OFFER. The Chairman remarked upon the non-receipt of a letter from the Committee which had the move- ment for the building of a library in hind. He said it had been decided to atk the Council to pro- ceed at once to convey the lease promised by the Railway Company. A resolution was also passed to the effect that the Council be asked to act as I trustees of the lease on behalf of the ratepayers and residents of Barmouth. It was necessary that the matter should be got on with as soon as possible.— Mr Hugh Evans proposed and Mr Wynne Williams seconded that the Council should proceed at cuce to have the lease conveyed.—This was agreed to.— A letter was read fsom Mr Denniss acknowledging the receipt of the Council's vote of thanks to the Company for their offer of the lease.—The Council then resolved into committee.

DOLGftLLEF. APPOINTMENTS.—At the last School Board meet- ing, Mr Peter Williams, B.A., was appointed second master of the Boys' department Board School at a salary of £80 per annum Miss Hughes, Llanengan, Pwllheli, was selected to be assistant mistress in the infant department. FAIR.—The annual "Ffair Dynewid" was held here last Wednesday. A large number of cattle was brought into the town, but it is evident that. the fair which used to be years ago the greatest fair in Merioneth is losing ground in popularity. The cattle brought in were of average quality, but prices were not so firm as at the previous fair. Horses were better and in fair demand. ACCIDENT. — Mr Edward Wynne Williams, M.R.C.V.S.L., met with an accident last Wednes day which might have been attended with very serious results. He was riding, lather fast, to a case when the bridle snapped with the result that the horse fell and Mr Wynne Williams was thrown heavily to the ground. No bones are broken, but a severe sprain of the shoulder necessitates his be. ing confined in bed for some time. The horse escaped unhurt. URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL, TUESDAY, SEP- TEMBER 19TH.—Present Mr Meyrick Jones, chairman presiding Mr E. Wynne Williams, vicc-ehairman, Messrs T Parry, John Edwards, Richard Richards, Edward Williams, E. W. Evans, Dr John Jones, Ellis Williams, J. Jones, and J. E. Jones, R. Birnett, deputy clerk, and W. Jones, surveyor. IMPROVEMENTS IN SMITHFIELD STREET. A letter was read from Mr Goff, agent of Messrs Salt aud Co., stating that he would be at Dolgelley on Wednesday or Thursday and would be able to meet the Council to discuss the question of the improvement of Smithfield street. A committee was appointed to meet Mr Goff and it was agreed on the proposition of Mr Wynne Williams, to write to other owners of property enquiring whether they would contribute towards the carrying out of the improvement. THE BED OF THE RIVER The Surveyor reported that 124 loads had been carted from the bed of the river near the Bontfawr and the material removed had been placed on the embankment in Caerhol. He had seen Mr Rowland Jones, who approved of the work and said he would be prepared to hand over the money in his care collected for this purpose provided the work was carried on.—Mr Richard Richards said the Council should receive an assurance that the money would be handed over before going any further. When the Council were certain on that point they might consider the advisability of adding to the money so as to make a good job of it.—A committee was appointed to see Mr J. C. Hughes in reference to the matter. WATER SUPPLIES. The Surveyor reported upon the means of supplying water to some of the upper portions of the town and he was asked to submit cietails and escimate at the next meeting. MOUNT PLEASANT. Mr Edward Griffiths, Springfield, appeared before the Council. The Chairman welcomed Mr Griffiths and expressed the hope that he came to direct and to advise the Council. (Laughter.)—Mr Griffiths said he had come rather for advice and direction. He added that he wished to submit plans showing the drainage of his houses at Mount Pleasant. He did not know whether he was bound to do so, but he was willing to do anything that was reasonable. He would leave the plans with the Council. Mr Griffiths thanked and leaving said he was glad to have the opportunity of coming there. He did not remember seeing a Council at Dolgelley of more dignified presence, (daughter.)—The Chairman: Good night, Mr Griffiths. (Loud laughter.)—The plans were referred to the Streets Committee. HOUSE TO HOUSE INSPECTION. The Suivsyor said he intended commencing a house to house inspection and desired the Council's instructions as to the mode of procedure.—The Surveyor was instructed to start with what he deemed to be the worst cases. THE CLERK'S BILL. •jThej F'°an,c?11Com'Tlittee reported having con- sidered the bill of oosta in connection with the slaughter house case, but they had not come to any definite resolution. The bill amounted to £ 350,out of which £156 consisted of out-of-pocket expenses and £96 was due to the Clerk's London agent.— Mr T. Parry said some of the members were of opinion that the Council should be represented by a solicitor before the Taxing Master and that Mr Davies should be represented as well.—Mr J. E Jones said if t- e Council went to law they must PlY for it- — Mr Edward Williams proposed and Dr Jones seconded that a special meeting of the Council he held to go over the bill.—Mr John Edwards proposed that two members be appointed to go over the bill with Mr Davies first, but withdrew in favour of Mr William 's proposition.—Mr 1'. Parry i-aid the Council had no legal knowledge and would know nothing whether any item was correct or not. What would the Council know whether a witness was entitled to a certain sum or not?—Mr E. W. Evans agreed.—After several propositions had been made and withdrawn, Mr John Edwards's proposition was agreed to, Mr Edward Williams and Mr John Edwards being appointed to go over the bill and report to a special meeting of the Council. FINANCIAL POSITION. The Finance Committee recommended that the Council should endeavour to curtail the expenses as far as possible with the view of keeping the expen- diture within the rate. They recommended that one man less be employed during the winter. Mr Edward Williams said it would be a great mistake to do away with one man. If three men were wanted at a v time it was in the winter when there were floods and snowstorms. He did not think the ratepayers would object to paying money necessiry in order to maintain efficiency. This step, he thought, would be false economy,—Mr John Edwards a-ked whether the Committee could not find some otlvr way of reducing the expendi- ture? He suggested that the estimate should be reconsidered by the Council with that object as they did not even do tnat before.—Dr John Jones agreed with Mr Edward Williams that it would be a mis-ake to dismiss one of the three men the Councd employed.—The Chairman said he must say the town had been hitherto kept in a splendi 1 condition. He had been in a far bigcer town than Dolgelley and when he saw the river there viished himself back in Dolgelley.—The Surveyor said he was very much surprised at the recommend- ation of the Committee considering that in pa t years the Council had employed twelve, thirteen, and fifteen men. Two years ago they had fifteen men at Graigwen apart from the men employed in the town.—Mr Edward Williams said a gentle- man told him the other day that the approaches to the town the best he had ever seen to any town. It would be a great pity to go back again fifty years.—Mr E. W. Evans said he quite felt the force of these objections, but let these geutlemen make some other suggestions as to how to reduc the expenditure. The Council had been surcharged the interest they had paid on the overdraft and something would h.ve to be done. He noticed that the very gentlemen who made this objection had been in favour of a low rate. In regard to the estimate, he denied Mr Edwards's statement that it rejeived no consideration by the Council. —Mr Evans, Mr Parry, and Mr Edwards proceeded to argue this matter, when Dr Jones said it was not the question before the Council, and the Chairman agreed.—ID was then decided unanimously not to adopt the suggestion of the Committee, but to leave it to the Surveyor to be as economical as possible. Dr John Jones hoped the Council would in future levy an adequate rate so that they might not be in such a pickle as that.—The Committee further recommended that no orders be issued without having first been passed by the Council.— The recommendation was adopted on the pro- position If Mr Wynne Williams, seconded by Mr Ed. Williams. HEALTH OF THE TOWN. The Clerk read the Medical Officer's report which stated that the town was entirely free from either infectious or contagious diseases and there was very little illness of any kind in the town.—Toe Chairman observed that Dolgelley was favourably mentioned in the report of the County Medical Officer. DEFERRED. In view of the lateness ot the hour, Mr T. Parry, at the request of several members, deferred his motion in regard to the lighting of the town by electricity. lIwn WORDS BETWEEN MEMBERS. MR JOHN EDWARDS COMPLAINS OF FRKNOII GENERALS." Mr Edward Williams, in accordance with notice on the agenda, called attention to th: proceedings at the recent enquiry touching the application of the Council for power to extend the district. Williams i-aid he wis sorry to bring that matter forward because it, reflected upon a member of the Council. He felt that the Council had received injustice at the hands of one of its own members present at the enquiry. One of his reasons for bringing the matter before the Council" as this— that he wished it to ba understood by everyone, to be realised bv evervone. that no man could serve two n>asta\>. Nov- Mr Edwards knew he (Mr Williams) was referring him Mr John Edvard < Make free use of my name. I do not object in the least. It you refer to me, refer-by name.—Mr Edward Williams, proceeding, said what he wish d particularly to impr. ss upon the Council was this— that it was inconsistent with the duty of any member of the Council to make use of the dis- cussions. the decisions or the deliberations of that Council against the interest of the Council it-elf That had beeu done, there was no question about it, at the last enquiry. He was not going to dis- cuss the wisdom of the resolu' ion of the Council to extend the district, but he thought it the duty of every member to abide by the decision of the majority in a case of that sort. Again, at this enquiry sevei d mistakes were made by Mr Edwards in reference to what had transpired at the Council, and he made use of the discussions of tin- Council against them intheirapplication. One state- ment he made in referenca to the improvement of sewerage. He said the Council were divided itS to whether they would extend the system. From what he (Mr Williams) had heard, Mr Edwards and Mr Mills had been hand in hand in that matter. Mr Edwards said there had been no intention of improving the system of drainage, no mention of extending the outlet of the sewer, although he knew very well that they had decided to extend the sewer by a hundred yards at least. He did not wish to be too hard on Mr Edwards, but he had to make a charge, a most serious charge. He (Mr Williams) said no member or official of that Council ought to retaiu in his possession any document, any report, or any information so as to make use of them against the Councd. He understood that Mr Edwards at the enquiry produced a report of the Medical Officer which was presented to the Council in the year 1896, a document which constituted very material evidence in the enquiry. and was calculated tj throw the Council out of court. He sai l that ought to affcrd food for re- flection to Mr Edwards. \Va3 that action worthy of a man who was elected to serve the ratepayers of the town ? Another matter he wished to refer to was the question of the estimate. Mr Edwards said the Council did not think it worth while to look at the estimate when it was presented. He (Mr Williams) looked over it, Mr E. W. Evans looked over it. As a matter of fact it was con- sidered most carefully. Again he asked—was it compatible, was it consistent with the duty of a member of that Council to be a member or an official of another body and to utilise his know- ledge of the discussions and the documents of the Council against the Council itself and in order to assist in the arrangements of another body. He (Mr Williams) considered that it was quite out of book for Mr Edwards to do that and he con- sidered him not to have been—he would not use a stronger word—open with the Council nor with himself as a member of the Council. Surely if that Council could not trust its own members-be con- sidered it very infra dig for a member of a council to act as Mr Edwards had,—Mr E. W. Evans wished to ask the Clerk in what manner Mr Edwards obtained possession of the document which he produced at the enquiry. Was it through his (the Clerk's) instrumentality and, if so, how did he (the Clerk) reconcile that with his duty to the Council ? If it was a copy he (Mr Evans) would not have said a word, but it was an original docu- ment.—The Clerk Of course, as you know, I am always anxious to give every information I can to every member. It is very probable that Mr Edwards asked to see this document some time and that I handed it over to him.—Mr E. W. Evans And it was not r iturned. There is another thing. A post card, said to have been received by each member, was handed up at the enquiry and it was stated that an estimate accompanied It.-The Clerk Mr Edwards was mistaken there. The estimate was not sent.—Mr E. W. Evans In that case, I want to know how Mr Edwards got hold of it ?—Mr John Edwards I never said such a thing. —Mr E. W. Evans Mr Hughes said it was received with the post card and Mr Edwards said Yes."—Mr Edwards I deny that. I have kept the instructions I gave Mr Hughes and I have no objection to any member examining them.—Mr Edward Williams: It does not matter what instractions you gave Mr Hughes. It is what you said to hlm- Mr Edwards (interrupting) Mr Chairman, Mr Williams has made his statement and I never interrupted him. It is already late and he IS speaking for the second time.—The Chairman Let Mr Edwards have his say now.—Mr Edwards said he would first deal with the estimate. A very strange comment on everything that had been said with reference to the estimate was the fact that a ra f Was ma(je meefc an estimate of 3s 5d ana not a word was said.—Mr T. Parry (loudly) Question. You must waive that question, Mr w,aF ,S'~T, Chairman asked that Mr Edwards should be allowed to proceed.—Mr Edwards said he was a. smgle member against them all and they couid afford to be generous to him. Not a word was said. It had been before the Committee, some mem- bers said, but it was a fact that net a word was said by the Committee or anyone else at the Council. lhat was undisputed Mr E. W. Evans Oh, no, it is not.—Mr T. Parry We do dispute it. That is the point.—Mr Edwards, pro- ceeding, said DO resolution In regard to the estimate was enterd on the minute book. The Clerk said he had nothing at all. He stood by facts. He was sorry that in that fight he had had to depend on the Press to deliver his opinions on the extension of the district, but during the whole time he had spoken out plainly. He had never imputed any base motives to any of the members, he had given them credit for good intention, and he had declared his views on the matter quite openly. What- ever he said was said quite openly. He was accused of having voted for the extension of the district once and then gone back upon his vote. Now he appealed to the Clerk and to the members who were there at the time as to the circumstances under which he gave that vote. The ques ion of the extension of the district was brought forward. He wished to hear the proposal in a definite form and he voted in favour of refer- ring it to a committee. He said he had no objec- tion to Thosp were the circumstances under which he voted. But they had not failed to remind him of that at every opportunity. In the forefront of Mr Guthrie Jones's brief was the fact that he had v^ted for the extension. What would they thmk if he (Mr Edwards) had a-ked Mr Hughes to give equal prominence to the fact that the Medical Officer at the first enquiry was regarded as hostile to the applicati n. He (the Medical Officer) did not vote for it at the County Council. He (the -peaker) would have been sorry to do any such thing as to try and discredit the evidence of the Medical Officer. Then it was insinuated thas he was acting for the Parish Council Mr Edward Williams We do not insinuate. We say it.—The Chairman Now, Mr Williams. Mr Edwards Mr Parry has said that it was after being appointed clerk of the Parish Council I be- gan to oppose the extension.—Mr Parry: I quali- fied that -.—The Chairman Now, Mr Parry, let Mr Edwards go on.—Mr Parry Now, honour bright. I merely asked the question whether you voted for the ext nsion before being appointed clerk. You said no and I asked the Lord Mayor and the Clerk—(laughter) .—Mr Edwards I have it here.. — Mr Parry: I don't know what y u have there.—Mr Edwards: This fact. T 'e proposal to extend the district was made in 1895. I v. as appointed clerk in 1894. Again, as to being opposed :o the interests of the town, I hive gone more into details over this matter perhaps than my accusers here. Mr Edwards then proceeded to read out a printed sheet. — Mr E. W. Evans (sharply) What is that?—Mr Edwards: They are my own "ortis I wrute these letters giving my reasons for opposing the extension. — Mr Edwards then proceeded to state his obj cdons to the extension, when Mr E. W. Evans rose to a poiut of order, asking whether they were to be allowed to reply to those letters ?—Mr Edwards I have been accused of going against the interest of the to.\n.—Mr Edward Williams Who made that charge ?—Dr John Jones All this is Llew Meirion's fault. (Laughter.)—Mr T. Parry: I am going home.—Mr Edwards asked to be allowed to defend himself.—Mr Edward Williams What I said was y u cannot serve two masters.—Mr Richard Richards Excuse me a minute .—The Chair- man Mr Richards, you are out of order. Go on, Mr EI wards.—Continuing, Mr Edwards aid on accusation against him was that he went against the interests of the town. He was going to show that the town would be undertaking a Lirger liability than the rate for the extra district would bring in. He had objected to the extension before the Parish Council — Mr Parry Did the Parish Council .—The Chairman: MrParry. — Mr John Edwards I will have fair play.—Mr Rich ird Richards: Why, this is like Dreyfus. (Laughter )—The Chairman Give him fair play.— Mr John Edwards What benefit would it be to me as clerk of the Parish Council if it were refused? Not a hatling. You had your officials giving evid- ence for you.—Mr Edward Williams: You were the official of the Parish Council.—Mr John Edwards, proceeding, said it would be a pecuniary gain to the officials of the Council if the district was extended, but he would be ashamed to hint that that was their reason for supporting it. On the other hand, it would not make a farthing's difference to him (Mr Edwards), Coming to the postcard, those who were on the Council at the time knew how anxious he was to asc rtain exactly how the extension would affect the ratepayers. This postcard was sent out calling a committee. He had been appointed on the com- mittee, but he never attended once. He declined to attend although he had a right to. The card stated that they were to consider the estimated revenue from the proposed addition to the district, t'u estimated expenditure on it, and to prepare grounds for the application for sub-mission to the County Council. He (Mr Edwards) was at the next meeting of the Council on the agenda of which i was" to consider the report of the committee respecting proposed extension of the district." The report gave the ratable value, the assessable value, and the additional liability to lie incurred, but report s'ated that it was not then nee ssary to gi ve feller pa»*t'cnlars. The Committee .deliberat ly declined to s'ate the expenditure on LIP; tX ni >iiii ci6í vI road aud expmiuiuuic uu oewcr- age works. H (the speaker) wished to know those things in the interests of the rat-payers, but the Cornnr ttee deliberately refused that information. We tried to g t this knowledge (producing a sheet containing figures). The liability —— Mr E. W. Ivans How did ynu get that ?—The Mayor called Mr E ans 11 order.—Mr Evans said it was a per- fectly straight question. Mr Edwards said the rat piyers were refused certain information and he, a ratepayer himself, proceeded to read a document containing this information.—Mr Edwards: It is quite authoritative.—Mr Evans How did you get hold of it? It is a fair question. You say the ratepayers were kept back from cer- tain information and the next minute you bring out that very information —Mr Edwards: These are not my words. They are the words of the Committee.—Mr Evall: You do not answer my question. You say yon are kept from that in- formation and the next minute you say what the information is.—Mr Edward: Do you dispute this?—Mr Evans I do not dispute anything. I m-rely ask the question.—Mr Edwards (to the ("lerk) Were these figures not approved by the Committee ?—The Clerk Not exactly.—[Mr Tnomas Parry here rose and left the room, remarking that it was late.]—Mr Edwards pro- ceeded to show that the liability which the Council incurred by the extension was greater than the revenue and inchded the; public lighting, remunera- tion of officers, &c. He said the Council never received this information. That was how he had been treated from the first.—[Mr Wynne Williams at this point left the room, being followed shortly after by Mr E. W. Evans.]—The Mayor: Go on, Mr Edwards, there is plenty of time. (Laughter.)—Dr Jones Yes, I propose that we fiivsh with it to-night, at all events.—Mr Edwards I am not allowed to go on for three minutes without inter- ruption. It is certainly a disgrace to you. In re- gard to the report, I never heard such absurd non- sense in my life. The report was placed in my hands. I received it quite fairly, but I never knew I had it until the morning of the enquiry. It had been before the Council, reported in the newspapers, and entered on the minute book. When a report had been made public like that, it was as public as could be. Besides, it had been included in the County Medical Officer's report which was printed, and if Mr E. W. Evans's resolution was carried out the Council would have printed it and distributed it amongst the rate- payers Then you speak about it as if it were a sacred document —Mr Edward Williams and Mr E. W. Evans No, no.—Mr Edwards (irritably) You are like a muster of French generals around me. (Laughter ) You make it out to be a great secret.—Mr Edward Williams We never said that.—Mr E. W. Evans I am willing to leave that to the ratepayers to judge.—The Mayor Take plenty of time, Mr Edwards. It is early yet. (Laughter.)—Mr Edwards J asked YOIl several times whether you wanted to get an improved sysfem of drainage, which would cost thousands. I am quite aware of the fact Mr Mills and Mr Evans have said it would not cost hundreds. After the recent statement of the Medical Officer, you cannot dispute that it will cost thousands and you are committed. —Mr Edward Williams (shouting excitedly): What are you to advise the Council? A great counsellor.—The Chairman Mr Williams, Mr Williams.—Mr Williams I must insist, Mr Chair- man. — Mr Edwards (turning to Mr Edward Williams) What has disturbed this brother like ^his ? I say you have committed yourselves to this expenditure, that is if you act honourably. Pro- ceeding, Mr Edwards said the sewers were said to be a danger to the town, but if they were, would their Medical Officer not have said a word all those years and Dr Parsons who had come down purposely to report any defect of that sort ? Mr Edwards then concluded and the members hurried oat of the room.

CAMBRIAN RAILWAYS.—Approximate return of traffic, receipts for the week ending September 17th, 1899: Miles open, 250. Passengers, parcels, &c., £4,485; merchandise, minerals, and live stock, £2,183; total for the week, £7,268 ? aggregate from commencement of half-year, £87,735. Actual traffic receipts for the corresponding week last year: Miles open, 250. Passengers, parcels, &c., £4,255; merchandise, minerals, and live stock, £2.894; total for the aggre. gate from commencement of half year, £84,081, Increase for the week: Passengers, parcels, ltc., £230; merchandise, minerals, and live stock, total for the week aggregate from com- mencement of half-year, Decrease for the week Passengers, parcels, &c., £ — mer- chandise, minerals, and livestock, £111 total for the week, aggregate from commencement of half-year, Aggregate increase Passengers: parcels, &c.. £3,290; merchandise, minerals, and live stock, £364; total for the week, ? aggregate from commencement of half-year, £3,654. Aggre- gate decrease: Passengers, parcels, &c., merchandise, minerals, and live stock, total for week, aggregate from commencement of the y««vr, £ —.