The Cardigan Bay Visitor

PORTMADOC. Appointment.—Mr. J. Lloyd Humphreys, of Messrs. Bowton and Co., slate merchants, has been appointed manager of the Pantmawr Slate Quarry Company. A Narrow Escape.—Last week the Portma- doc schooner "Prince Llewelyn," (Captain Ed- ward Roberts, master), which was bound from Copenhagen to Frederickstad, went ashore on some rocks on the Swedish coast, becoming a total wreck in a few minutes after she struck. The crew of six had a narrow escape for their lives. They had just taken to the boat when the schooner went down. They managed to reach shore safely. Drowned at Sea.—News came last week that John Davies, of Winter Cottages, East Avenue, Portmadoc, a seaman on board the steamship "Cedonia," had been washed over- board during stormy weather. The vessel i was bound from Cardiff for India. Davies, who was about thirty years of age, leaves a widow and four children. Foreign Missions.—At the missionary ser- vice at the Tabernacle on Sunday week a col- loot ion of JB80 19s. was made. It is expected that the figure, by means of further donations, will be brought up to £ 90.—Miss Kate Wil- liams, one of the C.M. missionaries at Khas- ±if'! addressed the Sunday School and tne Christian Endeavour Society at the Eng- lish Presbyterian Church last Sunday. 5iSfyn ^ural District Council.—The monthly meeting was held on Tuesday at Pen- rhyn, Mr. R. O. Williams presided over a full attendance. Mr. J. S. Foster, the Council's engineer, sent in a bill for £10 5s. in respect or a visit to London in the early part of 1902 to inspect the report upon recent methods of sewage disposal with a view to deriving profi-, oia? f?r the ProPosed sewerage schemes for Beddgeiert and Prenteg.—It was stated that Mr. Foster attended on behalf of i ?? G!fslyn Councils and that the Deudraeth Council had asked Mr. Foster KZZVhe Pha^es if possible. The Glaslyn and fWiL ri YSe u charges to be heavy and decided to ask for a reduction Writing with regard to the Beddgelert sewerage scheme ,tS ProPounded Mr Foster said, de- W^I T ALTERNATL7ER scheme suggested by Mr. of fho 1 °?es on Lord Harlech, one of the landowners concerned, he was firmly of ™ +* Ji1S s,cl\eme was the better and more practicable of the two.—During the lone whlch foWowed the Clerk (Mr. Thos Roberts) announced that if the Council deci- ded to proceed with the scheme of Mr Foster SobaaX"f,,»,°"t0ftISrd ,HarlMh's Sd w»Si Apt fha take place by arbitration 1 he Chairman was strongly in favour of nro- rffwf Wt J11*" ?oster's scheme. The Coun- fnrp 3?ffi J way t0° fre«l«ently be- fore difficulties which cropped up in the way of schemes of improvement.—Mr. Griffith Jones agreed and eventually it was unanimously re- solved to proceed with Mr. Foster's scheme and to apply to the Local Government Board tor the necessary sanction to a loan.—The Clerk next read a letter from the Government Board urging the Council to proceed forthwith with a scheme to remedy the admittedly in- sanitary condition of Beddgelert.-It was an- nounced that the necessary sanitary improve- wfth Tt Pent[.efe,1.in were being proceeded witn. lwo applications were received for the post of treasurer m the place of the late Mr. William Jones, N and S.W. Bank, Portma- ft Mr. J. T. Jones, the new manager at the Is. and S.W. Bank, and from Mr J R S °f,,th MetroPolitan Bank. SrwTn i Lle/ellyn said the Portmadoc wT S°?V0111 anxd- the '?oard of Guardians had decided to continue with the N. and S W Bank, and he thought the Glaslyn Councii should do the same, otherwise they would be a kind of odd man out. He proposed the an- Mr-J T" Jones -Mr. Robert Roberts (Brongadair), seconded.—Mr Gth Jones (Glaslyn Hotel), proposed the appoint ment of Mr. Pnchard, and Mr. Morgan Ro- berts seconded.—Mr. Prichard was appointed by four to t^o —The Sanitary Inspector said the district had been free from infectious dis- ease during the past month.

MERIONETH COUN TY COUNCIL. The quarterly meeting of Merioneth County $unC1l was held at Blaenau Festiniog on Wednesday last. Councillor Morris Tnoraas Corns, Presiding There were also present: Aldermen W Hughes, Dolgelley E H Jonathan fe"an- Aberystwytn Evan Jones, Bala Win Amfr^. ^S?rn?U; Lewis Lewis, Barmouth; pR°bertW 7 -Evans, Blaenau Fes^ Cor^'n • wse £ r Bala ? John Hughes, L/Orv. en H. Haydn Jones. Towvn J. Hu^hrvs John Jones, Dolgellev? I" Osmond Williams, M.P.; Councillors David Edwards, Corwen; John Parry, Bala (vK-e- chairman); John Thomas, Llanycil; Robert Evans Llanfor Thomas Jones, Llandderfel: R E Roberts, Llanuwchllvn J Mevrick ?o^ T]; Jol!n Roberts,"Dolgellev Rural; Owen fcs' T?anabir: J?hn Davies, Dyffryn John fVnfLi ule o TaI>;uyn George Henrv Ellis, v^yntal, b Parrv Jones, Teigl; Robert Roberts. Conglyvvai; J Parry Jon«I. Maenofferen J wfn- °n^T' ™T>hwys DG Jones. Rhiw D G vvunains, Bowydd; Humphrey Roberts, Cwm- orttun John Jones, Trawsfynvrld E R Evans lalsarnau Robert Richards. Harlech J Maeth- wn James, lowyn Messrs Robert Jones, clerk n. Oasson, assistant clerk; J Richards, countv Surveyor^ °gether with the c°<™ly Agent and R f ,,THE ,LATE LORD SALISBURY. minutes were read, the CHAIRMAN SLnc? the la;st m.eetinS a vrreat British Tofp'nf « /I passed away, ai?d he proposed a T nrH <5 vnu n6e Wlth the familv of the late Cminf.ii'= y'- ^'Ith an expression of the e'^appreciation of his great, valuable, and iong services to the State and Nation. vnTT £ ^5° )^ILLiAjra, M.P., seconding the mernhPT^nf to a(i(i a lew ords as a wS °w°f tbe two Houses of Parliament hriiUnnf ?r(i Salisbury, during his lpailpr nFffayee^ Conspicuously adorned. As thpv fpH ftr leader P^sed awayfrom their midst, Thp J wi *"agnitude of their responsibilities. no doJubt that Lord Salisbury held an honourable and distinguished place in the Qualities 7 u11 rec°gnise the great qualities that marked his personality, his public spirit, his lofty contempt for opposition hil lo"ie and oreIf SeeK!ng and Msehood> and honour 6 for lhe country's good and b»IheSta0„lSi"J.S!he"a9s.ed in »"«"«• the mem- THE COUNTY ANALYST. of mtii-ATly-st that ten. samples 2n^.iL submitted to him. Seven of the samples were genuine. ren?i«TdP] £ q^ef.tion'the CHIEF CONSTABLE replied that convictions were obtained on the thre other cases. One was from Athrog and two from Trawsfrnydrl. A i j POINT OP ORDEE. «f oVvfrman T'Evans said he rose to a point the report of the Education Pro- Coinimttee was not on the agenda. He asked whether it would be necessary to suspend the standing Orders as the matter was of such importance. A I^ 6 ^HAi?MAN sa'd it would be in order and Alderman Evans then moved the suspension of vne otanding Orders and that the report be taken the Finance Committee's report. Ihis was seconded by Alderman J. H. JONES and agreed to. MAIN ROADS. The Main Roads Committee reported that the sum of JE757 10s hal been paid to the urban councils of Bala, Barmouth, Dolgelley, Festiniog, and Towyn, in respect of the main xoads expendi- ture. The Committee recommended thao the piece of land given to the county by Mr Edward wiffith for the purpose of widening the main road at Llanfair, and now forming part of the mam road at that point, should be metalled and completed, that tne County Agent should be directed to inspect the retaining wall at Aber- andIra, Barmouth and report upon its state, and that the County Treasurer should be authorised to draw from the County Fund £50 for work- men s wages for repairing bridges, and £25 to 7!fa&es ?f workmen employed in connection maintenance of main roads. The sum of £983 13s was directed to be paid to Messrs Davies Bros., Barmouth, and 6d for build- ing parapet walls at Maentwrog and Sarn. The Finance Committee was also recommended to pay £700 to Messrs Davies Bros, during the next quarter, under the main road contract. The pavements in the town of Corwen should be re- paired in the manner indicated by the County wSuk a;4 cosfc n°t exceeding £ 25, and a parapet wan Duilt on the side of the main road leading down the steep hill near the Miners' Arms, Pen- rnyndeudraeth, toward Llanfrothen, at the esti- mated cost ef £36. A sub-committee, consisting of Councillors Robert Roberts, D G Jones, and E R Evans, with the County Agent, was appointed i main road near Tanlan, and a length between Garreg and Tynewydd-y-Morfa, J-iianrrothen, reported not to be protected by a wftii or fence on one side, and to report to the ff^ting of the Committee what steps snouia be taken. A parapet wall was recom- mended to be erected on the side of the main r«ad between Talsarnau and Penrhyn-isaf, at the pglnt wnere the maintaining wall has given ^%y# feP°rt the County Surveyor stated that < Ujid inspected the main roads in the five 1; .councils and found them in a fair order. Several bridges were repaired, but most of the JfVk.TVASi done /near ihftd been left 10 "Hr cailed att mtion to i ilie tihe' fttUdge^ s £ ii £ j'vjl ich was rmo&t' Z<tew«erous.- The mattered been bought before the proper authorities but he could not see why they had been so d lafcofy :yV-H £ vlOITAT KX (, rlL'Ho N Tbe CHAIRMAN of the Committeeman] rancillor Itibert Roberts) explained that theSmbter was under consideration and npe had, been received. There was a dispute as TO 'WHO vep^ptDpj#hie feri tiiet ? to- the culvert.. The COUNTY AGENT said that aMWr' tW Mef '• IDAUl road was concerned, the culvert had been t repaired, but he could not decide as to the other I portion. He understood that there was a con- dition in the lease for the landlord to do certain repairs. Councillor JOHN DAVIES said the part was one subject to the heaviest traffic in the county and as it was a matter to be settled on the spot, he suggested that a sub-committee should be ap- pointed. Councillor WM JONES having supported, the suggestion was agreed to. On behalf of the Dolgelley Rural Council, Dr JOHN JONES called attention to the state of a county bridge at Pontsel, Brithdir, and the SUR- VEYOR replied that he had received no com- plaints, but would see to the matter. The reports of the Agent and Surveyor were adopted on the Committee's recommendation. The report was then adopted. ENCOURAGEMENT. A letter was read from Mr C. E. Munro Ed- wards, writing on the eve of the Council meet- ing on behalf of the Cyclists' Tourist Club, con- gratulating the county on the great improve- ment which had taken place under the new system of maintaining the roads. He did no know whether the new system was more ex- pensive than the old, but the County Council gained in economy through the former. He wished the letter to be read as an encouragement to the County Agent. The CHAIRMAN said it was well to receive some approval and encouragement. Public bodies were usually abused. FINANCIAL. The Finance Committee recommended pay- ments of accounts amounting to 15,593 Is lid. The exchequer contribution account showed that y59 Os lOd had been paid to the Medical Officer £ nd Inspector of Nuisances at Barmouth, for the vear ended September, 1902. The amount voted for payment last quarter was S4,801 9s 6d, com- pared with X4,699 16s Id in the September quarter last year. The Committee recommended that the report of the Sub-Committee, appointed to enquire into the question of permitting county buildings to be used for holding meetings other than county meetings, should be adopted, and to confirm the resolution of the Visiting Committee of the North Wales Asylum to grant a super- annuation allowance of S32 a year to Margaret Lewis, an attendant, after 31 years service. The report of the Sub-Committee regarding oounty buildings was somewhat long, and Mr Haydn Jones only read the last paragraph con- taining the recommendation that the buildings should be used for the trausaction of county business only. The Chairman then read an application from the Dolgelley General Debating Seciety asking that an exception should be made in their case. The Society had only recently been established, but had no other available room except in con- nection with churches or chapels. They were willing to meet all reasonable charges. Aiderman HAYDN JONES did not think it would be well to make any exceptions. Dr JOHN JoNm-Do you exclude Boards of Guardians and District Councils ? Alderman HAYDN JONEs-Yes. Dr JOHN JONES said the Council would have to pay rates if they excluded boards of guardians and urban councils, and he referred to an agree- ment which had been made to that effect at Dolgelley some years ago. He moved an amend- ment that boards of guardians and district councils should be allowed to hold meetings in county buildings, and he would suggest that the question of holding other meetings should be left to the discretion of two local members. Dr ROGER HUGHES seconded the proposition. He thought there ought to be exceptions. It would be a great hardship for public bodies to be excluded from public buildings, and there were other local governing bodies, such as. parish councils, to be considered. Alderman W. P. EVANS said what had been spoken was true in some parts, but there were two sides to the question. He quite agreed with the Committee's report, but suggested that the rooms should be allowed for the use of special meetings, such as Asylum Committees and poor- law union associations. Alderman HAYDN JONES said the former were allowed. Alderman WM. HUGHES concurred with what Dr Jones said, and suggested that the matter should be re-considered or left to the discretion of local members. In view of the discussion arising, Alderman HAYDN JONES asked that the whole report should be read, and it appeared from it that enquiries were made at all the towns with a view of eliciting what meetings were held in the county buildings. Replies were received in each case, but caretakers did not seem to agree what were or were not strictly county meetings. It was owing to the laxity of supervision, which was so unsatisfactory, that the recommendation was made. Alderman Jones added that the question had been considered at some length by the Finance Committee. With regard to the question of charging for the use of the rooms lu xomm.lt,tee was informed by the Clerk that the Council, by taking rents, would be liable to be taxed. It was out of no antagonism to local associations that he supported the recommend- ation—he believed that they should be en- couraged-but county buildings should be preserved for strictly county business. The question of permitting meetings that would only be held once in a lifetime could be con- sidered when the rooms were applied for. Dr JOHN JONES ssiid he looked on boards of guardians and district councils as part of the county business—a small wheel within the large whee!, which carried on the great work of the county. Alderman WM. JONES said the Dolgellev Guardians should hold their meeting at the Board-room in the Workhouse. He was sur prised to ee Dolgelley people asking for auother room when that was available. Alderman ANDREAS ROBERTS suggested that the matter should be referred back to the Finance Committee to consider further. There were only a few members present at the last meeting, and he did not think the matter was fully considered. He moved an amendment which was Seconded by Councillor ROBERT RICHARDS. On being put to the meeting, the voting re- sulted :-For the Committee's recommendation 13; for the amendment, 15. Referring to the proposed loan, Alderman HAYDN JONES stated that the Treasury had declined to grant it, but the people who had been negotiated with before had offered the money and the matter was now well in hand. THE EDUCATION ACT. Most of the Council's time was afterward oceupied in dealing with the returns and report of the Education Committee, which were pre- sented by Alderman W. P. EVANS (chairman of the Committee), who stated sthat that was one of !?,oat important matters ever brought before the Council. He reminded them of what had already been passed by the Council, and how efficiently the Committee had carried out their duties. The Committee had met several times and the meetings were splendidly attended throughout. At the commencement they had been most fortunate in obtaining the services of Mr Haydn Jones—(hear, hear)—as clerk to the Committee. However indebted the county was to Mr Jones, their debt had now been consider- ably increased as the result of his recent labours Alderman Evans then proceeded to detail the reports of the Committee meetings, which have already been published. In addition every avail- able information was given from the Architect's report (Mr Howard Jones) regarding the tenure and condition of the property, general manage- ment of the schools, and the efficiency of the teaching. The Committee also deemed it ad- visable to tembodyj the report of the year 1847 as a criterion by which a fairly clear idea might be obtained of the progress of education in the county. On the part of the Clerk the work of compiling the report and figures was undertaken during the scanty intervals of leisure afforded in business. The Committee's reports were adopted un- animously '.until the question of grouping" schools was come to. The Committee recom- mended that each county school district should have one Board of Managers, except the Bala district, which should have two, namely, Bala and gCorwen Petty Sessional divisions. The following was the grouping" :Bala- Bala Celyn, Maesy waen, Pare, Llandderfel, Cwmtir- mynach, Rhosygwaliau, and Sarnau. Corwen- Bettwsgwerfilcoch, Corwen, Glyndyfrdwy Cyn- val, Gwyddelwern, Llandrillo, and FCy'nwyd Barmouth — Barmouth, Bontddu, Llanbear* Cwmnantycol, Dyflfrvn, Harlech, Arthog, and Llwyngwril. Dolgelley — Dolgelley, Brithdir Islaw'rdref' Llanymawddwy, Aberangell, and Dinas. Towyn—Towyn, Bryncrug, Abergynol- wyn, Aberllefenny, Corris, Tynyberth, Pant- perthog, Aberdovey, Pennal, and Rhoslefain Festiniog—Festiniog Advanced, Festiniog Board' Glanypwll Higher Grade Girls', Manod, Slate Quarries, Tanygrisiau, Croesor, Llanfrothen MmfFordd, Penrhyndeudraeth, Rhyd, Talsarnau' and Trawsfynydd. Councillor JOHN DAVIES did not think the Council could do anything better as a preliminary step. If there arose any necessity for re-group. ing, that could be considered again, but at pre- sent the Council's best policy would be to adopt the Committee's recommendations. Councillor HUMPHREY ROBERTS maintained that Festiniog district, owing to its extensive area, should be divided similar to Bala, which was a smaller district. They had done all that was possible for education at Festiniog. Alderman JONATHAN felt that the Council had reason to be grateful to the Committee, and especially the Clerk, for their excellent work He doubted whether anybody could be found to sacrifice and trouble so much as Mr Haydn Jones had done. He had compiled a report which was worthy to be put side by side with any of the Government's Blue Books. He did not think the: Council would be doing their duty unless a vote of thanks was accorded to the Committee and the Clerk, which he proposed. Councillor MAETHLON JONES seconded the pro- position, but Alderman W. P. EVANS stated that that motion would be brought forward atrain (The CHAIRMAN remarked that the report'was a pattern to the whole of Wales. p was i AJdfermAn;JONATHAN these proceeded to stat* that there ™. straw, respect of what Councillor jHpmphrev Robert! had ^•jLw^.nob.be' possihfe the Committee b recdtnmendatious therie A^n! matter of fact there was something 6r a similar of tibem/i toVattefe? He had baft tol&tfiat attended! it out of thirty members. He proposed that Faslir^h^' ^urban committees. Councillor HUMPHREY ROBERTS seconded the proposition. Councillor E. R. EVANS also suggested that Talsarnau and Penrhyndeudraeth Schools should be transferred to the Barmouth district from Festiniog as a matter of convenience. In reply, Councillor E PARRY JONES said no complaint had been received from the Penrhyn- deudraeth School Board on the matter. He thought educational efficiency should be first considered before the convenience of one*or two managers. He did not see why there should be any transfer in regard to Talsarnau and Pen- rhyndeudraeth, because the bulk of the Festiniog people went to Penrhyndeudraeth, and there was no ill-feeling between the two towns. It was absolutely necessary that everything possible should be done to improve the school attendance throughout the county. The first duty of the Council should be to unite the edu- cational authorities in the connty so that there would be no over-lapping. To save that the county should be divided into large areas. The cry for the new Education Act was that the small school boards had not performed their duties, and the same thing would recur if there were similar areas, but the Committee's intention was that the large areas would have a beneficial effect on the smaller places. He. repudiated the suggestion of irregular attendance of the Festiniog Managers, and the school was at present in an excellent state. Another point he emphasised was that with large areas they would be able to move teachers from one place to another, which would be impossible other- wise. Alderman JONATHAN maintained that it would be better to divide large districts into small areas and said that Festioniog should be divided as well as Bala, Alderman HAYDN JONES replied at some length and said he did not believe in dividing areas into urban and rural districts. The ob- ject of the education committee would be, not the sinking of funds for educational purposes, but the levelling of rural schools to the level of the good schools in the county. He did not agree with Councillor Humphrey Roberts that they could do no more at Festiniog. He looked on Festiniog as having done good. work and did not want to pull it down to the level of the rural schools, but to lift rural schools to the level of Festiniog. Instead of making a cleavage be- tween the rural and urban districts, he sug- gested a mixture. If it was found that the division was not the best for the county, then it could be amended at any time. He hoped that whatever was done in regard to the Managers that the Board would not be stationary, but that it would visit every school in its district. Hear, hear.) Councillor HUMPHREY ROBERTS said his point was that Bala and Corwen had been divided, a smaller area than Festiniog. Alderman HAYDN JONES said if it was the wish of the Council to regroup the districts, he would wish that the matter should be referred back. Alderman LEWIS LEWIS supported Alderman Haydn Jones and said that Festiniog had de sired to be divided with an eye to business. Alderman JONATHAN-No. I protest against such insinuations. It is simply a matter of con- venience. Alderman LEWIS (who was still on his feet) said he supported Alderman Haydn Jones's suggestion. The CHAIRMAN—Excuse me, you are out of order. The second amendment will come after. Alderman Haydn Jones did not press his suggestion6 Councillor Humphrey Roberts with drew as a seconder of Alderman Jonathan's proposition and the original motion was then carried. Councillor E. R. EVANS gave notice of motion to consider at the next meeting that Talsarnau and Penrhyndeudraeth should be included in the Barmouth division. Proceeding with the report, Alderman W. P. EVANS said the Committee recommended that the members of the Fducation Committee should also be members of the Board of Managers within their respective areas. It had been de- cided that the Education Committee should be foimed as follows:- Bala, seven elected by minor local authorities, eight by the County Council: Corwen, the same Barmouth, eight by minor local authorities, nine by the. County Council; Dolgelley, the same; Towyn, nine by minor local authorities, ten by the County Council; Festiniog, thirteen by minor local authorities, and fourteen by the County Council. Alderman JONATHAN said there was a strong feeling at Festiniog .hat the Urban Council should be directly represented on account of its contributions to technical education, but Alder- man EVANS pointed out that that was out of order, as it referred to local managers and not to the County Committee. On the motion of Alderman HAYDN JONES, seconded by Alderman EVANS, the whole of the report and figures was then adopted. In. presenting a supplementary report, Alder- man EVANS said he expected that the scheme would be approved by the Board of Education on September 24th and it would be necessary to hold a special meeting immediately afterward to confirm the selection of the Committee. The supplementary report recommended that copies of the Committee's report should be sold at a shilling each. The Committee had resolved that the salary of the Clerk should be X250, in- cluding travelling expenses, and that attend- ance officers should be appointed to devote their whole time to the work. The appointments would be made later on. In regard to the ap- pointment of the nine selected members on the Committee, Alderman Evans said that twenty- seven was the number appointed by the County Council and nine outside—a total of thirty-six. Several names had been suggested, and the Com- mittee had selected a name for each grade of education. Councillor HUMPHREY ROBERTS complained that the names selected had been published in tne newspapers before made known to the Council. Dr HUGHES said it was not the fault of the Committee. If they could find the reporter, let him be hung. J Alderman JONATHAN asked if the number nine was decisive ? The VICE-CHAIRMAN replied that it had been fixed in the scheme. Alderman W. P. EVANS pointed out that Merioneth had been more generous than any other Welsh County Council in regard to the outside number. Aldermau ANMREAS ROBERTS objected to the selection being proceeded with because the scheme had not yet been approved. The CHAIRMAN explained that, it was "only a provisional arrangement. The Cammittee was only appointed until March next. The following names were then submitted to the meeting and approved of Higher educa- tion, Professor Phillips, Bangor; secondary education, Mr Thomas Jones, headmaster of Tovvyn County School; elementary education, Mr J Lloyd Owen, Bala Board School, and Miss M C Jones, Festiniog Higher Grade School; technical education, Mrs Burton, Bala; Miss Thomas, headmistress of Dr Williams' School; Sir Henry Robertson, Pale, Bala Mr Ed ward Rowland, chairman of Peanal and Aberdovey School Board and the Rev J Rhydwyn Parry, Festiniog. The name of Mr Owen Joaes was submitted by Councillor Humphrey Roberts in- stead of the latter, but on being put to the vote it was lost. Councillors Humphrey Roberts and D J Jones made a protest because the members of the Committee had voted. The Council then proceeded to elect their re- presentatives, and in the end the following names were passed :-Festiniog-Messrs W P H °n??' D Williams, D G Jones, Dr Humphrey Roberts, J Jones, D G Tnwm Wdliam Jones; Barm'outh, vrv^ Dolerelley—Messrs |Haydn Jones Moms Thomas John Jones, WilliaL HughS John Davies, Lewis Lewis, Owen Jones J Sen-The°Hon CH ;rr?ala and ^or' r» Wynn, Messrs Thomas Jones Edwards, Edward Williamson, R E Roberts' heTdnirTu?/dTg 0tthe will be MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT. The Sanitar Condition of Merioneth. Dr. Kichard Jones, Festiniog, who has been appointed to tabulate the reports of the Medi- vear IQfK? v Healt!1 in the county for the If] has reported to the County Coun- ot to »,hm»7flentlemeI1'-1 t&e W WW submit for your consideration the fol- oi»S K3S Out the S°Uth' Festinioi, Doigelfey, jfaHwyj Deudraeth, Dolgelley, Edeyrnion, and Pennal. fXFo/jf Sd joput the year 1902 is Rn 17? and -rural dist"cts for compared with ion! IlaafD m°refSe °j 739 ■> as compared with 1891 TlTt &nd 715 werrre^?e?5"S1thl.™e r°r W"1* twelve as compared with igol' %?;H,rease t*eU6^ £ 2tu&rela{.,<mv *'°r average—in 1898 this was28 ? LhpV'»[0W<.tfce corded during this peS Tbt v8^st re" throughout England and Woi j r*te was 28.6, thWrJ8 1902 bined districts for the ^VOIVsll-ire Urban Districts.-In the six urban districts .population of 22 973 581 h?rt?1Stncts registered, >ivirvg » birth' !vP oc « 8 were Vul-a birtll rate of 2S.1, ing in Deudraeth (28.9) and the lowest in Pennal (21.5), and Dolgelley (22.8) respec- tively. In the eleven Rural Districts of the Carnarvonshire combined districts the rate was 26.3 per 1,000. Dsath Rate.-840 deaths were registered in the County during the year, the number for 1901 being E-03. Thus we have an increase of thirty-seven deaths as compared with the orc- vious year. The death rate for the year was 16.7 per 1,000 of the population, that of 1901 being 16 08, 1900, 17.8, 1899, 17.50. The dot h rate during 1902 throughout England and Wales was 16.3; that of the Carnarvonshire ci mbined district being 17.2 per 1,000 of the population. Urban Districts.—The number of deaths in the six urban districts was 372, being at the rate of 14.2 per 1,000 of the pop- ulation. The urban death rates are as fol- lows -Mallwyd, 24.5; Bala. 1.8.7; Festiniog. 16.5; Dolgelley, 16.3; Towyn, 13.9; and the Barmouth, 13.57. As I have already pointed out the death rate at Bala and Barmouth is higher thar. the biith rate. Barmouth and Towyn have the lowest death rates in the County. In 1901 the death rate of Mallwyd was 13.4. The rate of the 103 smaller towns throughout England and Wales during 1902 was 15.3. With this our urban districts (as a whole) compare very favourably. Rural Dis- tricts.-468 deaths were registered in the five rural districts, giving a rural death rate of 17.2 per 1,000 of the population, shewing an increase of 1.2 per 1,000 as compared with 1901. Ihe corresponding rate for 1902 in the Rural Districts of the Carnarvonshire com- bined districts was 18.7. The death rate in Deudraeth was 19.8; Dolgelley, 18.5; Bala, 16.4; Pennal, 13.09; and the lowest was in Edeyrnion (Corwen) 12.29. County of Merioneth. England and Wales. .2 I ° £ £ £ -s.2 2 2 £ 5 | JB* 0.2 C*5 1 .Sjs tsg S 2 l-t*? "S? S? d £ T" Q N H S 1 M Q iS3 JSA ,1891 22-70 19 93 142 30*2 20*2 2 78 1892 28*90 1870 136 30'5 18 "0 3 "16 1893 27-30 18-85 1 40 130 30-8 19-2 2'46 169 1894 24-46 17*20 057 134 29*6 16*2 1'75 134 1895 26*30 18-40 0*87 135 30*3 18*7 2 14 161 1896 25-70 19 00 2 10 171 29-7 17 "1 2-18 -148 1897 25-30 18-40 1*24 172 29 7 17"4 2*15 156 1898 28-50 18-20 1'04 149 294 176 2"22 161 1899 26-29 17 50 073 145, 29 1h'S 2,21 163 1900 25-90 17*80 0*67 127 28"9 183 2 00 154 ,1901 25-50 16 08 0*90 127 28*5 16*0 2'05 151 1902 251 167 0 37 127 286 16-3 1*64 133 From this table we find that the birth rate in this county is below that of England and Wales in each year varying from 7.5 in 1891 to 0.9 per 1,000 of the population in 1898. The death rate in the county during this period compares favourably with that of England and Wales. From 1893 to 1902 (both inclu- sive) the zymotic rate in the county is much below the corresponding rate for England and Wales for the same period, and the infant mortality is also satisfactory with the excep- tion of the years 1896 and 1897 respectively. Zymotic Death Rate.—During the year nine- teen deaths from the principal zymotic dis- eases were registered throughout the county, giving a zymotic death rate of 0.37 per 1,000 of the population. The corresponding rate for England and Wales was 1.64, that of the Carnarvonshire combined districts being 0.71. This is very satisfactory-indeed, this has been the case for the last ten years, with the single exception of the year 1896 when there was a severe epidemic of measles in Festiniog Urban. Urban Districts.—Twelve deaths from the seven principal zymotic diseases were registered in three of the urban districts, viz. :-Festiniog, 8; Dolgelley 3; and Bar- mouth, 1. No deaths from these diseases were recorded in Bala, Mallwyd and Towyn. The urban zymptic death rate for the year was 0.52 per 1,000 of the population. Rural Dis- tricts.—In two of the rural districts seven deaths were registered, viz.:—Deudraeth 4, and Dolgellev 3. No deaths were registered in Bala, Edeyrnion (Corwen), and Pennal. The rural zymotic rate was 0.25 per 1,000 of the population. Infant Mortality.—Throughout the county there were registered 161 deaths of infants under one year of age, eighty in the urban and eighty-one in the rural districts. This, with 1,264 births, gives us an infant mortalty rate of 127 per 1,000 registered births. The corresponding rate for England and Wales was 133, that of the Carnarvon- shire combined districts being 129. In the ur- ban districts the rate was 137 per 1,000, that of the rural being 118. The highest rates of infant mortality are in Pennal (304), Bala Ur- /An\ Mallwyd (217), Dolgelley Urban (139), and Festiniog (130.) The lowest rate is in Bala, Rural (85). Improper food and diet- ing, defective clothing, and the wnnt of clean- uness generally, defective ventilation and pol- luted atmosphere together with defective san- it £ .ry conditions have all to do—directly or in- directly-with the causation of disease" and of death ariong infants. Death of Aged Per- sons.-There were 265 deaths among persons over sixty-five years of age, giving a rate for the year of 5.2 per 1,000 of the population. In the urban Districts the deaths numbered ninety-eight and the rate 4.2. In the rural the 167 deaths gave a rate of 6.1 per 1,000. Deaths from Heart Affections.-Throughout the county 102 deaths were registered as due to diseases of the circulatory system, giving a rate of 2.0 per 1,000 of the population. In t.. L u districts there were forty-six deaths with a rate of 2.0, and in the rural districts the deaths numbered fifty-six (2.0 per 1,000.) The highest rate was in Mallwyd (4.4), Dolo-el- gey Urban coming next with 3.2; Pennal, 2.7; Dolgelley Rural, 2.6; Bala Urban 2 5- Edeyrnion 1.9; Festiniog, 1.8; Deudraeth,' 1.7; Bala Rural and Barmouth, 1.4 each, and Towyn, 1.2. The deaths from heart affections are more numerous than the deaths from phthisis. Not only is this the case during 1902, but for the last ten years the average number of deaths from heart affections ex- ceeds that from phthisis. Many causes con- tribute to this. Among these may be men- tioned, rheumatism with heart complications —the direct and indirect effects of dietetic errors—such as excessive tea drinking among a large number of our industrial population. This, coupled with conditions of employment and labour generally, the evil effects of damp- ness of dwelling-houses so forcibly referred to in some of the reports, particularly those of Dr. Hugh Jones for Dolgelley Urban and Ru- ral defective ventilation, more particularly in sleeping apartments, causing anaemia with its train of symptoms and complications, and defective sanitary conditions ge-nerally low- ering the system aind rendering those subject to them less able to withstand disease and more liable to develop heart affections as com- plications to such diseases as rheumatism scarlet-fever, and diphtheria. Tfie elemen- tary principles of hygiene are left unheeded especially those relating to personal hygiene and physical education. Many of our inhab- itant never see a bath-they go from one end of the year to the other with the pores of their skin blocked, forgetting that, a olean and healthy skin is an excellent safety valve against disease. Loeal authorities nre re- sponsible for this to a great extent. The law sp nsi provides. that out of the rates public baths can be provided; yet I am not 1r;1r of any district in the county where this has been taken advantage of. Let us ho(>e that when our educational system comes directi 7 under the control of County Councils these matters will be considered, and so far as possible re- medied. I would like to see a cadet corps formed of the beys in our county schools- these to have the benefit of trained and ex- perienced instructors and to meet at least once a year. This would assist in the pro- per development of the body, and proper physical training would tend to render all parts of the body symmetrical and more per- fectly proportioned—would improve the health and physical strength, improve the circulation of blood in the brain, and so in- crease the capabilities for mental work. Notifications of Infectious Diseases.—Com- pared with 1901 the notifications show a de- cided decrease. This is mainly due to the fewer cases of measles notified. More cases of diphtheria and of scarlet fever were noti.. fled during 1902. It is interesting to note that an improvement has taken place in some In the following table we have particulars of the cases notified and zymotic death rate for the county for the last nine years. Notwith- standing the large number of notifications in former years—particularly in some of the dis- tricts—the zymotice death rate has been low, of the districts during the last- few years. comparing very satisfactorily with the cor- responding rate of England and Wales. Cases notified, 1893, 636; 1894, 576>; 1895, 820; 1896, 1337; 1897, 735; 1898, 761; 1899, 760; 1900^236; 1901 40- 1Q02 247 Zymotic Death Rate, 1893 1 40 1894 0.57; 1895, 0.87; 1896, 2.10; 1897; 1.24; 1898, 1.04'; 1899, 0.82; 1900, 0.57; 1901, 0.90; 1902, 0.37. Water Supply.-The question of the proper water supply of all the districts is carefully noted in all the reports received-some im- provements have been carried out, but still much remains to be done in this direction; as shown in the following extracts. Bala Ur- ban.This is excellent. The pressure ^ttitighout is good and the quantity plenti- been pure al& plf^lW W iCQmpi^mt3, ^t 'cotta^:Qf K" n>i^,beiijg, wen Sntel" Thf <#cf f <icn*s A# iMFthe^aus6 of tlUS want o supply up the r<&k& i £ sbmfci fault in the !ayir gf9t tW; '.water pipes. Dolgell6y t/rbaal. Eer^^e .siipply ia by a; :psfi^4ter companyi; and is tr$jn 'iiim GVtiW^h. -w-sket "Wafi excellent in quality tnrougnout tne year, and the supply I never failed during the summer months." "The pressure, however, has been inadequate to supply uninterruptedly a few of the houses in the more elevated parts of the town." The authority is now in communication with the water company with the view of purchasing the undertaking. Festiniog.—"Tpie water supply continues good. That of Pantllwyd has not yet been attended to. The supply of Dol- rhedyn is unsatisfactory." Mallwyd.—In his report the medical officer refers to ."damp dwellings, impure water, unwholesome resi- dentiary surroundings." Towyn.-This is satisfactory as regards quality, "but in some parts of Towyn there has been scarcity at tim- es-more particularly when the population has been increased by visitors or encamp- ments of soldiers." "At Aberdovey steps have been taken to increase the supply." j-1Sj s^ou^ be noted, has now teen re- medied. Bala Rural.—"This is now—on the whole— ^L,a satisfactory condition. Deudraeth.— 1 hroughout the year the large population of Penrhyndeudraoth and Mmffordd enjoyed an ample supply of. water." "The supply at Rhyd and Garreg has been much improved." "The supply at the village of Talsarnau has proved insufficient at times." "The question of the water supply of Harlech has engaged the special attention of the authority during the year." "The growing and urgent needs of the populous village of Trawsfynydd have received attention." Annually for the last ten years I have had to call your attention to the report of the unsatisfactory condition of the water supply and drainage at the villages of Harlech and Trawsfynydd. The supply of pure water and of a proper system of drainage is of vital importance to Harlech and Trawsfynydd, where so many visitors come. It will be observed that two out of the five cases of enteric fever notified throughout the county were in Deudraeth Rural. Dolgelley Rural.—"I am glad on this occasion to be able to report some nal pro- gress in improving the supply of the district, especially so in the villages of Dyffryn and Llwngwril." The waterworks of Llwyngwril has since been carried out. "The water supply of Aberllyfeui school 3L and adjoining houses has now been improved satisfactorily." "As regards Dyffryn .n en- quiry was held in November, 1902,' on "behalf of the Local Government Board--the Council wishing to borrow 22,750 for t'je purposes of water supply. The loan was sanctioned. Tenders are now being asked for." "Re Llwyngwril, a loan of 2,250 was sanctioned by the Loca! Government Board." Edeyrnicn. "Extension and satisfactory works were un- dertaken at Carrog. The supply of water is now good." "Nothing has yet been done to supply the village of Cynwyd with pure water." Pennal.—"The supply at Pennal is abundant during the greater part of the year." Drainage.—Some improvements have been carried out during the year. At Festiniog a new system of sewage purification has been completed in two parts of the districts. Bac- teria beds have been ccnstrueted at Llan and Conglywal. The remaining parts of Festiniog are still unsatisfactory in this respect. No great progress has been made with the sewer- age scheme for the town of Corwen. The same scheme for the town of Corwen. The same may be said of other parts of the County- such as Harlech and Trawsfynydd—the outfall at Dolgelley and Corwen. Dwelling Houses.—The chief complaints- as regards the unsatisfactory condition of dwell- ing, houses oome from the rural districts. Com- plaints of the same nature are also to be found in the report from Mallwyd. This amounts to a serious condition of things—in- juriously affecting the inhabitants and partly assisting to depopulate the rural districts, ine authorities have to deal with houses of defective construction, defective sanitary coo- dition.j as regards water supply, drainage cubic space per person inhabiting the houses dampness of surrounding soil; in fact all those conditions that render houses unfit for human habitation. This is a serious condition of things, and the authorities concerned should spare no effort to rc-medy them. Fevers. Throughout the county we find that there were two deaths from scarlet fever, five from whooping cough, four from diphtheria, and membranous croup. No deaths from c-nteric fever were registered, though five were noti- fied. This is very satisfactory, and shows great improvement "s compared with former years. Polluted water supplies bear a direct relation to the prevalence of enteric fever, hence the importance of providing pure water for the inhabitants of all the districts. Cancer. Malignant Disease.—During th- year we find that there were fifty- eight deaths trcn. cancer registered. In Table VIII., par- ticulars to districts 1.e given, together with the rate per 1,000.. It is remarkable to observe that m Bala Urban and Bala Rural, with a combined population of 6,732 no deaths from cancer were registered. The cancer death rate for the urban districts was 1.1., that of the rural being 1.1. For the whole. county we have a rate of 1.1 per 1,000 of the population. Phthisis.—Ninety-one deaths from phthisis were, registered during the year, "ivinc e phthisis death rate of 1.8 per 1,000^ of the population. In the Urban Districts the rate :is follow, s id 4 4 Bala, 2.5; Towyn 2.1; Festiniog, 2.0; Dolgelley, 1.2; Barmouth, 1.0. In the six urban districts there were forty-six deaths, the urban rate being 2.0. The rural phthisis death rate for the year was 1.6 per 1,000 of the population From chest affections other than phthisis, there were 133 deaths in the county, with a rate of 2.6 per 1,000. The treatment of phthisis is having special attention through- out the kingdom, particularly what is known as the open-air treatment, and the establish- ment or sanatoria. Thi* whole principle of treatment is based on the fact that phthisis is an infectious disease, and that in plenty of sunshine and of pure air we have the best means of checking its progress and of possibly curing it. Were the public generally aware of this fact and acted on it, we should undoubt- edly be nearer that goal-dAvoutlv to be wished—when phthisis would be a riíre dis- ease and not the scourge of the country as it now undoubtedly is. This satisfactory state of things can only be arrived at by educating the public, and this education must com- (,at-ly. In the elementary seh" Is d- vanced schools, (-,ounty schools, and univer^itv colleges. At present the teachings; of hv- giene and the principles of prevention as ap- plied to disease is most defective. Boys and girls leave school at the age of thirteen or fourteen years of age with but a ve,-v crude conception of the direct and indirect influence pure air, good wholesome food and pure water have upon their life's history. With but one or two exceptions the boys attending our county schools get no special facilities of knowing anything about hygiene. Their phy- sical training is also defective—no swimming oaths are provided in any of the schools. The girld get hygiene and domestic economy as a class subject. This is good so far as it goes. it is to be hoped that the new education au- thority in the county, about to be elected, will not forget that money spent in thp teach- ing of hygiene and the principles of sanita- tion will be money well spent, and calculated soon to have a direct effect upon the preva- lence of such diseases as phthisis and all zymo- tic diseases. This is the only way ir which we can hope to permanently rid ourselves of tnem. During the winter 1902—3 the Tech- meal Committee of the Festiniog District ™?krC1L a course of lectures on public health. This class was well attended— i in all twenty-two lectures were given. It would be well if other authorities in the county were to establish a simiar course of tinuTtionmschoonisCHOn with their evening CGn* tinnation schools. ther» io «°nj Taking the county as a whole h-i« haa doubt that considerable progress rafe ^urin^ the ^ar. The birth En»l'itir1 'q stationary, below the averaee of satisfactory WaJe\ The de^h rate, is fairly ment Z' a shows continued improve sight of thaf"^ years- must not be lost acres andlLthe *r?aJ,f the C0lI"ty is 426,587 averse of °n,y S0'171' we find that in ft" aCiFjS- Fe-r Per?on- Yet acreaee ner rural districts where the during 1902 .ls. ^S^^t the death rate dSrifts TCfnfhlg}er tha? in th* "ban rates are satisfactory m°f.tality and zymotic no doubt, of a hett-fr 'aa c}ir<!ct.result, 1 have that govern the • PPrfc.ia^10n of the laws sanitary conditions. Our chie?K+mT be to remedv all efforts should ferred to m i -iC ODS' already re- spread. development and The position at Trawsfynydd was also ex- plained. ACCOUNTS. A satisfactory report was received from the District Auditor upon the county accounts for last year. FESTINIOG COUNTY SCHOOL. Councillor J. PARRY JONES moved "that as Alderman E. H. Jonathan has left the district of Festiniog, that his seat on the Board of Gov- ernors of the County School be now declared vacant and that another person, as representa- tive of the County Council be appointed to fill the vacancy." There was no seconder, it being stated that Alderman Jonathan had resigned his seat. Alderman JONATHAN said he was sorry to see Mr Jones: move the motion in that form, in a way that was a reflection that he had not fulfilled his duties and consequently the County Council should ask him to resign. That was a very un- kind and discourteous resolution to be moved by a fellow member. It was a delicate personal matter, but if Mr Jones had inquired he would have found that his resignation had been put in before the agenda was published. Councillor J. PARRY JONES protested against Alderman Jonathan's remarks, and said his motion was for the success of the School alone. As the Clerk had not been notified of the resignation, the matter was deferred. FOR CONSCIENCE'S SAKE. Councillor John Thomas intended to ask the Council or the elected Education Committee "Do they exhort the ratepayers to pay the rate with- out asking questions for conscience sake or let everybody to do or not without saying one way or the other ? but he was not present at the time and the question was passed over. RIVER POLLUTION. An application from the Dovey Fishery Board requesting the Council to enforce its powers under the Rivers Pollution Act, 1876, with a view of having the pollution of the river Mawddach by the Gwyn Mines, Ltd, stopped, was referred to the Committee dealing with the Act.

DOLGELLEY. URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL, TUESDAY EVEN. ING, SEPT. 1ST. Present Dr John Jones (chairman), Messrs R Richards (vice-chairman), R Edwards, W Hughes, D H Jones, W T Lloyd, W R Williams, J Edwards, R Barnett (clerk), and W Jones (inspector). INSPECTOR'S REPORT. The Inspector reported several cases of nuisances, some of which hud been complied with, and notices served in other instances. He had been informed by Mr Edward Griffith that the Council would be welcomed to complete the end of the new bridge near Dr Williams's school. Manhole covers for Felin-uoha bridge bad been ordered. THE NEW BRIDGE. It was stated that Mr Hugh Pugh had made a verbal tender for the completion of the new foot- bridge near Dr Williams's School. Members did not agree, however, as to whether a wall should be made or the railings extended.—Mr W Hughes suggested the former, and said a wall would be more fitting.—Mr D H Jones, who was ashamed that the Council should be 4* hanging on so long overmuch trivial matters, proposed that the railings should be extended and that Mr Hugh Fugh's tender be accepted.—Mr W T Lloyd proposed an amendment that the work should be given out on contract, as was necessary regarding all amounts over £ 2—The Chairman pointed out that it was only the completion of an old contract.—The amendment was not seconded and the motion was carried"—Mr Hugh Pugh's tender is understood to amount to over f:6. THE WATERWORKS. The Clerk stated that the plans and estimate for the proposed purchase of the waterworks had not yet been received. He had received a letter from Mr Taylor, the engineer, saying that they were ready, and the report only required to be copied. On receipt of his agreement he would immediately send the plans and estimates. Mr Taylor added that the plans and estimates for the sewage dis- posal were well under way. An inspector of the Local Government Board had infoimed him that the plans might be required by the Board of Trade. The Chairman said the Council bad not committed itself with Mr Taylor only in regard to the water- works. —Thu Clerk said he had written to Mr Taylor in regard to the sewa&e disposal saying that the Council did not intend going in for a big scheme for some time. -On the Chairman's suggestion, it was agieed to call a special meeting when the engineer's report on the waterworks would be received, and to delay waiting the application to the Local Government Board for the sanction to borrow a loan. WORKMEN. The Inspector stated that one of the Council's workmen, three altogether, was indisposed and unable to do his woak.-Some discussion followed on the state of affairs, Mr J Edwards referring to the lack of proper supervision (n ihe O-^ncil'a work- men.—It was eventually deeiocd, fii "ôt 'notion of Mr Edwards, to employ a subati ute f, short period.—The question of giving out tne scavenging by contract will be considered at the next meeting. PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1ST— Before C E Munro Edwards (chairman); O Sianey Wynne (Dolrhyd); Edward Griffiths (Springfield); Roimr Williams (Dolrnelyullyn); Thomas Edwards (Blaenau), Esqa. Dr John E Jones (Brynffynou) E Jelf Reveley, Esq. (Bryngwin) and Dr John Jones (Wenallt). The Fishery Act.-William Jonei-, Well-street, Dolgeiley, was charged with having refused to allow his fishing basket to he searched by William Canning, water-bailiff. Mr R D Richards, olicitor, Barmouth, appeared for the prosecution.— he Bailiff said he found defendant from the ecreation Ground.—He asked him for his license, which he refused to gliow.-He then aSKed him to allow him to search his basket, which lw also refused.—Defendant then threated him and asked him to fight, and called his brother to assist him. Evidence was given for the defence by Isaac Jones, the defendant's brother, who said that the license was not asked for by the bailiff.-A fine of 10s|and costs was imposed. Application for License.-An application was made by Mrs Catherine Thomas, Liou Hotel, Oswestry, for an occasional license to sell intoxi- cating l quor on the Show field of the Agricultural Cattle S!iow to be held at Dolgelley on the 11th September, between the trains of 8a.m. and 5 p.m. A deputation was present on behalf of the West Merioneth Monthly Meeting aad also from the Temperance Society to object to the ap- p'ication. The deputation constituted of Revs R Morris, M.A., B. D. W Parri Huxe, B D. John Davies. Bontddu; Owen Davies, Gaullwyd, and Mr E W Evans, Frondirion. The Rev R Morris, M.A., B. D., in introducing the deputation said they wished to emphasise the fact that the op- position to this licence was not to be construed as opposition to the agricultural show itself. They felt as strongly as anybody that an institution which had for its object the promotion of the in terest of agriculture was good and deserved sup- port. But they had yet to learn that the pros- perity of the agricultural show must rise or fall with the sale of intoxicants on the field. It might be eaid that the Committee had made its arrange- ments on the supposition that theie would be a licence, and that should the Bench decide to with- hold the licence they would be placing the Com- mittee in an awkward position. But the law did not recognise the principle of vested interest in licences, even in cases where a licence meant a live- lihood, still less, if possible, in a case of this kind. In conclusion, Mr Morris thanked their Worships for the courteous menner in which they had re- ceived the deputation.—The Chairman said he assured the deputation that their application would receive every consideration.—In answer to the Bench, it was said that the applicant was to provide the luncheon for the Committee.— Mr O. Sianey Wynne said they fully sympathiz3d with the deputation in their efforts to put down drinking, not only in Dolgelley, but all over the county. He assured them that their wishes would receive their deepest'consideration. He could not, however, say that he was prepared to vote against the application. There would be a large number of people in charge of cattle for the whole day who would not be able to leave the field for refreshments. In reply it was stated that food would be supplied on bhe field, and that the Temperance Party was going to provide food in a separate tent.—The chairman, Mr Munro Edwards, said they had no proof to show that the granting of an occasional licenses had been the occasion of increasing intem. perance on the day of the Show.—In reply to the Bench, Major Beat gave it as his opinion that the granting of an occasional license had not been the means of increasing intemperatce. He also said that a license had been granted to the same people by the Corwen bench of magistrates to «ell £ at the Edeyrnion Show.—In answer to the Bench, the Rev John Davies, Bontddu (ane of the deputation), said that they as representatives of the Monthly Meeting represented 14,000 adherents. —The Rev R Mortis thanked the Bench for the kind reception of them, and asked them, if they granted the licence, if they could not limit the time.—Major Best suggested from nine to five.- Ultimately the licence was granted from nine a.m. to four p.m. Breach of Public Health Act.-Sir R. H. Wyatt was summoned by the:Dolgelley Rural Council for a breach of the Public Health Act in not causing the requirements of the Council to be carried out at Garthisaf.—Mr R. Jones-Griffith appeared for the Council and Mr Casson, Portmadoc, for the defendant.—Mr Casson, at the outset, said be would state frankly that he had suggested to Sir R. H. Wyatt that it would be tolly for him to spend money in repairing the present farmhouse. He had advised him to close the house and make the other house, which was close by, the farm- house instead.—Mr R. Jones-Griffith said an order had been obtained before in the year 1901 and Mr Casson said that the order was never served on them or else the work would have been done if they knew what was wanted.—Mr J. Edwards, rate collector and inspector, said that in December, 1902, he visited Garthisaf. There were no ceilings, tor the bedrooms and the heuse was subje(!t;tp noodiog.1 WM about half-a- *>y Mr W/^aa nP proper deiling m th £ hcusev Hfe 'atfrnitt^tf that there .were no proper ceilings in a good martyr-farm Mfinfe the county and in some old houses eveu>^&?*fbi5f gelley.—William Jones, inspector of nuisances, said he quite agieed with the last witness except as to the height of the rooms. Many were of good height. He admitted it would have to be a very high tide to flood the house. To make the house safe, it would be necessary to raise the floor two feet or thereabout.—Mr Casson said that it must be specified in the Order how to prevent the house being flooded.—Mr R Jones Griffith held that the Magistrates had only to make an order calling upon the owner to prevent the nuisance, and the owijer was to decide how to prevent it.—Dr Hugii Jones said the house was insanitary and unwhole- some. He saw two cases of pneumonia there and he had no hesitation in saying that one of the cases, which proved fatal, was the result of the flooding. In 1901 he received a letter from Sir R H Wyatt admitting everythlJg he had complained of and promising to do everything that was wanted..—Mr Casson asked Dr Jones to sugges-t how to prevent the flooding.—Dr Joues, holding the letter in his hand, said that Sir R H Wyatt in that letter suggested how to do it.-Mr Casson again said wit- ness could not read the letter.-Dr Jones further said he was not going to suggest how to prevent flooding. It was uot his work.—Mr Casson still held that no order could be made without specifying how the work could be den", Mr R Jones Griffith held that the Bench could make an order without specifying how the work should Its done. Subsequently an order was made calling upon Sir R H Wyatt to carry out some improve- ments, so as to prevent the houae being flooded, and also to provide proper ceilings to the bedrooms. Three monihs were allowed in which to carry out the requirements of the order.—The advocates and witnesses' fees were allowed. Drunkermesn.—Thomas Evans, painter, admitted having been drunk on licenst d preniiars.-The case was proved by P.C. Roberts.—A fine of 58 and costs was imposed. Assault. Ellis Roberts, Bridge-street, was charged with having unlawfully assaulted Hugh Owen Williams, printer, on the previous Saturday Light, -Complaivant said be was going home bf. tween 10 and 10-30 on Saturday, wiien defendant walked up to him and accused him of doing eoaii- thing to his sister, which he denied. Defendant then struck him in his fice.-Defeadant did not appear and was fined 10s and costs.

PORTMADOC SHIPPING.. Arrived Telephone, Captain Stephens, from Wexford; Agnes May. Jones, Exeter 8.S. Re* becca, Roberts, Liverpool; Janet, Hughes," Bridge- water George Casson, Lewis, Bristol; Dora, Evans, Newport Morning Star, Lewis, Carnar- von s.s. Rebecca, Roberts, Liverpool; Victoria, Lewis, Glasson Dock, Sailed Equity, Captain Evans, Southampton Aeron Belle,. Davies, Bridgewater; s.s. Rebecca, Roberts, Liverpool Iugolf, Nymann, Swansea Alpha, Jones, buuth- ampton; "A. T. Thomas, Cardiff; John and Margaret, Williams, Cardiff; s.s. Rebecca, Roberts, Liverpool.

NEVIN NEW CHURCH AT NEVIN.—On Thursday week, the Bishop of Bangor laid the memorial stone of a church which is in course of erection at Nevin. The site was given by the Hon F G Wynn.

TALSARNAU. ■ PULPIT REFERENCE.—On Sunjay, at the churches of Llanfihangel y-Traethau and Talsarnau, the Rev D T Hughes, rector, preaching from the words, Pre- cious in the sfght of the, is the death 10',Iar Saints," made a. reference* ".1 and Welsh to the death of Lord Salisbury ana the late Dean John Pryce of Bangor. PREACHINC.At the opening of the new Church of Dewi Sant, Blaenpennal, near Tregaron, which took place on Wednesday, the preacher in the morning was the Lord Bishop of St David's. In the afternoon and eveniner, special sermons wese preached by the Rev T D Jones, Llanerfyl, and Rev D T Hughes Llanfihangel-y-Traethau. There were crowded con, regations.

HARLECH GOLF.-The return match between the Royal St- David's and Aberdovey Clubs took place on Wednesday last, in very wet weather, the former winning by four holes. Scores as follows ROYAL ST. DAVID'S. ABERDOVEY. Lord Winchilsea 0 C. S. Green 1 T. W. Piggott 1 C. R. Minchin 0 W. Butcher 3 A. Mays Smith 0 Lord Maidstone 0 Rev H. Foster 0 Hon. Denys F Hatton 0 W. Greenstock. 5 Arthur Butcher 0 C. H. Allcock 10 Rev F. W. Pearse 3 D. L. Howell 0 F. H. Sabin 0 E. L. Jacobs 1 H. R. Stokoe 2 G. N. Foster 0 H. E. M. Stutfield 0 T. G. Allcock 0 J. Ronald Clive 7 Rev A E Alleock 0 Preb. Norton Thompson 2 W. P. Trench 0 R. H. Gossage o F. Griffin 1 Dr Pagan Lowe 1 J. M. Howell 0 A. A. Bourne 3 G. C. May 0 Rev Dr Field 0 Rev L. J. W. Shilcock 0 18

< <¡"¡; :¡' .r BORTHYGEST REGATTA. The fourth annual regatta of Borthygest came off on Wednesday in inclement weather, rain falling almost throughout. There was, however, a large number of spectators, who witnessed some interesting contests. When the sailing races started there was but little wind but it soon sprang up, and the races fin- ished in a "full sail" breeze. The sailing course was a beat towards the bar and a run home. The commodore was Mr. R. M. Greaves, Wern, with Mr. Charles E. (Breeze as vice-commodore and Captain Dd. Richards junr., as rear-commodore. The Committee was composed of the following:—Mr. D. Llew- elyn Hughes (chairman), Mr. Humphrey Jones (treasurer), Mr. David Davies (secre- tary), Messrs. Morris T. Isaac, F .H. Strow- ger, W. Wallace Williams, Hugh Hughes, John Harries, Captain John Owen, Captain Evan Roberts, Messrs. John Williams, William Humphreys, D. R. Evans, and William Ro- berts. The Penrhyndeudraeth Brass Band, who were in attendance, discoursed most cre- ditably. The following is a list of awards:- SAILING RACES. Sailing Boat Rate, other than centre boards under 30ft. overall, 1, Evan Morris (Blue Rib- bon); 2, Isaac Jones (Olwen); 3, W. Morris (Annitta.) Open Sailing Boat, other than centre boards under 20ft., 1, Captain E. Parry (L.M..H); 2, H. Owen (Kruger); 3, Ll. Emlyn Jones (Bul- ler). Sailing boat with centre boards, under 22ft. over all, 1, Captain R. Evan Davies (Mena); 2, Morris T. Isaac (Doris); 3, Wm. Jones (Leader.) ROWING. Sculling (for boys under 16), 1, G. D. Ro- berts; 2, R. G. Evans; 3, W. Roland Jones. Ladies punt race, 1, Miss Hannah Morris; 2, Miss Emily Morris. Boys' punt race (under 16 years), 1, G. D. Roberts; 2, R. G. Evans. Two pair scull oars skiff race, 15ft. to 20ft., 1, G. Owen's crew (Glaslyn); 2, D. Davies's crew (Shakespeare); 3, J. Owen's crew (Stret- ton.) Pair scull oars skiff race, 15ft. to 18ft., 1, Robert Roberts (Holy Oak); 2, W. Wallace Williams (Wynne Clive); 3, John Owen (Peggy.) Two pair scull oars skiff race (for ladies), 1, Miss Nell Jones and partner, with Wallace Williams as cox (Holy Oak); 2, Miss Emily Morris and partner, with H. H. Harries as cox (Wynne Clive.) Four oar ship boat race, 1, J. Croker (E.C.T.); 2, J. Williams (Idea.) Two oar skiff race (ladies), 1, Miss Hannah Morris and partner, with H. H. Harris as cox; 2, Miss Nell Jones and partner, with W. Wallace Williams as cox. > SWIMMING. For boys under sixteen, 1, Evan Evans, Saw th. p Eoi n, I,' altr McLean. >>/rD-imk Huntry 1, Jones. wm*a-