The Welsh Coast Pioneer and Review for North Cambria

MEETING QF RAILWAYMEN AT LLANDUDNO-JUNCTION. ADDRESS BY MR ELLISON. An open meeting of railway men waa held at Llandudno Junction on Sunday evening, under the auepioes of the looal branch of the Amal- gamated Society of Railway Servants, and was well attended by railway employees from Llan- dudno, Colwvn Bay, Conway, and Junction. Mr Phillip" Davies, who presided, said he re- grett-ed that the Labour member for the district on the Conway Council was not present to take the chair. He contended that it waa that gen- tleman's bounden duty to preside, 806 he had been elected to the Council by a majority of railway men's votes. He, however, hoped that their Labour member would be present upon a future occasion (applause). Mr George Piper, secretary of the local branch formally moved the following resolution: "That this open meeting of railway men of Llandudno Junction and district heartily endorses the action of the Glasgow, Dublin and other conferences in initiating the national movement for improved condition of service and the policy of demanding all negotiations being conducted through the society s offioes, and further approve of the action of the Executive Committee in the conduct of the movement and express their appreciation of the determination of their members, and also calls upon all railway men to join the society and so hasten the successful conclusion of the movement. Mr H. Humphreys having eeoonde4 the re- solution, Mr H. Ellison, of Preston, then addressed the meeting. He aaid he did not favour a strike; he was opposed to suoh a course unless they wore compelled to take extreme measures. The move- ment was not one that had been sprung upon them, but was started as far back as June, 1906. It was now left to them as railway servants to push it forward, and if they did not get satisfac- tion from their directors, then they would ask the Government to step in (hear, hear). They had men with large families who had been work- ing on the railway from 30 to 40 years, and he admitted that to such men a strike would prove a great hardship; but he ventured to say to suoh men that there was not much fear of a strike. What the society wanted was to show a bold front. He remembered the time when he and Mr Morris, who was present that night, endeavoured to have a week's holiday without loss of pay granted to railwaymen on the London and North-Western Railway, but the reply to their humble request waa that the directors had con- sidered the matter and oould not see their way to comply. Such a reply, he contended, was evi- dent proof that the company would give nothing. PERSONAL EXPERIENCES. Speaking of his personal experience, Mr Elli- son said that in the year 1900 he was risen from a cleaner to extra fireman, but was eventually put back because he had. not .attained 19 years of a.ge. He appealed to have the matter re- considered, but having no satisfaction he finally appealed direct to Lord Stalybridgo, and six days afterwards an official came to see him at Preston, and asked him upon six occasions to hand in his notice, but he refused to do so each time (cheers). Two years later, he was told that if he was not satisfied, he knew the remedy. Eighteen months ago he made another application, the reply to which was that the matter had been enquired into, and the company found that he was in his right place, and if he was not satisfied he could either give or take a. week's notice. Had he not been a member of the society he would pro- bably have been in a different position that day. With regard to the advent of the largo locomo- tives, he said that if the company provided big engines they should provide big men to tackle th->m. If they modernised their engines they should modernise the pay (applause). Some firemen were paid 36 9d a day and others Sa a day. He contended that when the man whoso pa.y was 36 9d did the work of a 5s man he should also be paid the 5s. He had been work- ing recently as many as 100^ liouris a week. With regard to the platelayers he said that these were the men who ran the greatest risk of any employed by the company. They were only paid 17s 3d a week, out of which they had to buy their own shovels. The railway men generally wero working to keep men walking about who were drawing salaries of from L500 to £1000 a year. If they loot in the present crises they would for ever afterwards be bound down like a.aves (applause). He thought that somo strong measures should be used towards their leaden* if they did not give way to one another. The Railway Company were laughing up their sleeves at the men falling out with each other. If they were to succeed they must work hand in hand (applause). Upon being put to the vote the resolution was declared carried unanimously. Upon the proposition of Mr George Edwards a vote of thanks was accorded Mr Ellison for his address, and to Mr John Hughes, wheel- wright, for the use of the room. Mr Hughes, in acknowledging the voto of thanks, said that he was pleased to 00 present to give his support to the movement.

The "Times," in its final review of the con- dition of British crops on Ootobor 1st states that the English harvest has been aloundant, especially as regards oatis, that tho average condition for wheat, barley andl oats was bet- ter than at any other part of the season, and that the improvement has been progressive from the ebart. A number of Welshmen are ^pcfiperino- in Canada- Judge Howell, chief judge of° Court of Appeal a.t Manitoba. is a Welshman- and Mr John Williams, a Flintshire man, who is now a member of Parliament, landed in Can- ada in 1882 with the proverbial half-crown in his pocket. A preliminary meeting was held at the County Hall. Dolgolley, on Mondav, to con- aider the Territorial Army Act. There was a largo gathering of oounty magistrates, and it WiLg decided to form an association for the county, with Mr Wynne of reniarth, Lord Lieutenant* as president.

LLANRWST BOARD OF GUARDIANS. VISIT OF THE NEW INSPECTOR. A DECREASE IN THE POOR RATE. Mr John Roberts, J.P., presided at the monthly meeting of the Llanrwst Guardians on Tuesday, the other members present being Mr Hugh Ro- berts (vice-chairman), Revs. John Gower and J. Ll. Richards, Messrs E. Mills, John Hughes, John Williams, O. Ll. Jones, Edward Edwards, T. T. Roberts, D. G. Jones, John Berry, E. W. Roberts, Rowland Hughes, W. Williams, W. G. Jones, Wm. Evans, David Jones, John Davies (Gwytherin), David Owen, R. T. Ellis, Meredith Owen, David Lewis, and John Davios (Bryniog), with the Clerk (Mr R. R. Owen), the Local Gov- ernment Board Inspector (Mr H. R. Williams),the' MR S. J. WARING. Higli-Sheriff of Deabiglishire. 1 High-Sheriff of Denbigh6hire.

Relieving Officers (Messrs 0. Evans Jones and T. C. Roberts), and the Master (Mr T. J. Thomas). OUT-RELIEF. Mr O. Evans Jones, the relieving officer for the Llanrwst district, reported that he had relieved 160 paupers at a cost of £ 113 Os 4d during the month. A ohequo for 1;110 was granted for cur- rent expenses. Mr T. C. Roberts, the Pentrevoelaa officer reported having relieved 134 paupers at a cost of J674 12s 9d. A cheque for B72 for current ex- penses was allowed. The Clerk reported that the in-door paupers numbered 29, as against 20 for the corresponding period last year. The out-door paupers numbered 294, as against 306 for the same period last year. At the last Board, the number was 289. WELCOMING THE INSPECTOR. The Chairman said he was sure the guardians rejoiced that the Looal Gov- ernment Board for the first time had appointed a thorough Welshman to be inspector or the Poor Law Unions in Wales and Mon- mouth. On behalf of the Board, he heartily congratulated Mr Williams on his appointment, and extended to him a hearty welcome. The Rev. John Gower endorsed the remarks of the Chairman, and added that they had full con- fidence that the new inspector was the right man in the right place. Mr H. R. Williams, who was well received, spoke in Welsh, and thanked the Board for their hearty reception. He had come there to make the personal acquaintance of each guardian, and not to make any speech. There were some very important cases to consider, and it was the duty of the Board to consider them with full patience, and feeling their great responsibility to the poor as well as the ratepayers. The fact that Mr John Burns, who was at the head of the Local Government Board, had appointed a Welshman had given exceeding satisfaction. He (Mr Wil- liams) felt his position one of great responsibility, especially as being the first Welshman to fulfil that office. He prayed that he should have strength to carry out the duties by assisting all guardians honestly and fair. He had been in the midst of the poor, and it was his intention of doing all he possibly could for them. Perhaps he was a long time in coming to Llanrwst, but that was not out of any disrespect for the Board. He had to see to Wales, Monmouth, and Llanrwst as well (laughter). He was at Llanrwst last Febru- ary, and at that time went through the work- house, and on the whole he found that all the in- mates got fair plav. He thanked them very muoh for their kind expressions, and also for the kind way they had taken up the suggestiona thrown out by him. He did not come there to find fault, but to help the guardians as much as possible in administrating the poor law (applause). He had intended going through the house that day, and making some remarks to the members, but it had gone late, and he would take the first opportunity of again visiting the workhouse. MASTER'S REPORT. The Master reported that during the month 55 tramps were relieved, as against 45 for the cor- responding period last year. THE MEDICAL OFFICER'S FEE. The Clerk reported that at a meeting of the Finance Committee, Dr. Lloyd Williams, the Workh,ius,c medical officer, claimed B5 and JB3 respectively in respect of two accidents whioh had taken phl) at Dolgarrog. One was a com- f pcund fracture, and the other a simple fracture. Dr. Williams was also the dcetor for the works. The guardians had no contraot for extra foes except confinements. It was decided to refer the medical officer to the company for payment. PROPOSED LLANDUDNO POLICE BUILD- INGS. The Board, on the motion of Mr Hugh Ro- teris, seconded by Mr John Williams, decided to support a resolution of the Conway Union protesting against the erection of new police buildings at Llandudno. THE CALLS: DECREASED POOR-RATE. The Clerk reported that the estimated common fund expenditure amounted to £2300, which with a balance of £1000 for reserve, made a total of £ 3300. Deducting contributions from the agri- cultural rates grant and other sources there would remain a sum of £ 1217 to be provided from rates. This worked out at a rate of 5d in the J6, which was the lowost for the last five years. The poor- rate undoubtedly was going down. The total calls for Union and county purposes were as follows :-Bettwsycood, £ 344; Capel Curig, £ 105; Dolwyddelen, 9195; Eidda, £ 47; Llanrhychwyn, £ 120; Maeiian, £ 151; Penmachno, 2272; Tre- friw, £ 397; Abbey, £ 27; Eglwysbach, £ -399; Gwernhowel, £ 17; Gwytherin, £ 85; Llanddoget, £ 112; Llangerniew, £ 231; Llanrwst (rural), 1;463; Llanrwst (urban), £ 757; Pentrevoelas, £122; Tir If an, £ 43; Trebrys, B28. The total call of the Union came to L1294, and the county L2621, which moant a rate of lid in the £ in Denbighshire, and 8d in Carnarvonshire. On the motion of Mr D. G. Jones, seconded by. Mr John Williams, the calls were passed. OUT-DOOR PAUPERS. A proposition was submitted by Mr Gower that out-door paupers living in nouses alone should be put with others, so as to save expense. A suggestion by the Clerk, however, to ask the paupers whether they would agree to this course, was adopted. VACCINATION RETURNS. The Clerk reported that Dr. Lloyd Williams had vaccinated 88 children in the Llanrwst dis- trict, Dr. Morris Williams 48 in Trefriw district, and Dr. Michael Williams 66 in Penmachno, a total of 202 during the past year.

PENMACHNO AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. ANNUAL SHOW. The anouial ahow o(f the Penmaolnno Agricultural Society was held on Saturday, The attendance was poor on account of the wretched weather experienced, but the entries and exhibits were. excellent in every respect. The officers this year were:- President: Mr H. Humphrie, Blaenau Festiniog, X Messrs W. H. Jones, Gwern Howell; Griffiths Roberts, Eidda Fawr. Chairman of Com- mittee: Rev. Ben. Jones, The Rectory. Vice-Chair- man: Mr J. Griffith Evans, Penmachno Quarrv. Treasurer: Mr John Richards, Park Hill. Secretary: Mr J. R. Williams, Plaa Derwent. The judges were: Heavy horses: Mr R. Ellis, Bryn Pin, Tynygroes, Talyeafn. Light horses: rwtiHen^ Pftrr-v. Glan'rafon Pontrhug, Carnarvon T k William Jones, The Hand, Llanrwst Mr John Owens, Gwerclas, Corwen. Sheen: Mr Samuel tvaus, Fforest, mnsftnn&n j Mr John Williams, Llew- esog, Hanrhaiadr. Butter and eggs: Miss E. Ellis" Tyrnawr, Oerrig y Drudion Miss Roberts, Clustvblaidd,' Cerrig y Drudion. Slate splitting and boring Mr H. Humphris, Blaenau Festiniogj Mr Owen Williams, Plas Glasglwm, Penmachno. l'ony races, cycle races, etc. Messrs. H. Humphris, Blaenau Festiniog; H. J. W. Watling, J.P., Lianrwst; E. Davies Jones, Llanrwst; James Baln, Edinburgh. The field stewards were: Dr Williams, Mostyn Villa; Mr John Richards, Park Hill. Heavv horses: Messrs J. 'Lloyd Morris, Ysgwyfrith; W. D. Jones, Nantycro- gwyn; H. R. Richards, Hafod Llan. Light horses: Messrs H. J. W. Watling, J.P., Llanrwst; E. Davies Jones, Esq., Llanrwst; Mr G. Jones Llewelyn, Pen-y- Bont. Cattle: Messrs Griffith Pritchard, Tyn Waen; Edward Jones, Penflfridd; R. W. Evans, Tanrhiw. Sheep: Messrs Owen Roberts, Tyn Coed; Jared Evans, John Street; Robert Griffiths, Blaen Buarth. Butter, etc.: Messrs R. E. Williams, Rhianfa; W. E. Wil- liams, Dylasa; D. P. Davies, Post Office. Boring and slate splitting: Messrs J. G. Evans, Penmachno Quarry; R. Ellis Evass, Bryn Hyfryd. Races: Rev. Ben Jones, The Rectory; Mr J. G. Evans, Mr R. W. Evans. THE AWARDS. HORSES (Open Classes). Team of horses for agricultural purposes: 1, W. Lloyd Thomas, Bryniau Brithion, Pentrevoelos 2, Evan Roberts, Bryn, Nebo, Llanrwst. Mare or gelding, 13 hands and not exceeding 14 Lloyd Thomas, Bryniau Brithion; 2, Robert Williams, Hendre Wen, Llanrwst. Gelding or filly under 3 years of age for agricultural purposes: 1, W. Lloyd Thomas, Bryniau Brithion, Pentrevoolat 2, Evan Roberts, Bryn, Nebo, Llanrwst. Mare or gelding exceeding 14 hands: 1, David Roberts, Aelydon, Penmachno; 2, Hugh Roberts, Oae Melwr, 'Llanrwst. Mare or gelding, hands and not exceeding 14 hands: 1, William Pierce, Bodafon, Penmachno; 2, David Roberts, Aelydon, Penmachno. Pony, mare or gelding, 12 hands and under 13 hands: 1, W. H. Jones, Gwernhowel, Yabytty; 2, William Pritcliard, Bryn Crag, Penmachno. Mountain pony under 12 hands: 1, William Prit- chard, Bryn Crtlg, Penmachno 2, David Evans, Peny- groes, Penmachno. "Turnout" 1. Hugh Roberts, Cae Melwr, Llanrwst; 2, David Roberts, Aelydon, Penmachno. Fastest trotter: 1, W. G. Williams;' 2, A. P. Wil. liams. Ponv race, height not exceeding 14 hands: 1, 0. E. Morris, Dugoed, Penmachno; 2, William Pritchard, Bryn Orug, Penmachno. LOCAL CLASSES. Agricultural team: 1, W. Lloyd Thomas. Bryniau Brithion, Pentrevoelas; 2, Evan Roberts, Bryn, Nebo, Llanrwst. Agricultural mare or gelding: 1, W. Lloyd Thomas, Bryniau Brithion; 2, Evan Roberts, Bryn, Nebo, Llanrwst. Mare with foal: 1, W. Lloyd Thomas, Bryniau Brithion, Pentrevoelas; 2, John Hughes, Cerrig- gellwm Isa, Ysbvtty. Colt or filly under 3 years old: 1, Evan Roberts; 2, W. 'Lloyd Thomas, Bryniau Brithion, Pentrevoelas. Foal or filly under 2 years old 1, W. Lloyd Thomas, Bryniau Brithion, Pentrevoelas; 2, Evan Roberts, Brvn, Nebo, Llanrwst. Bast filly In the show: 1, W. Lloyd Thomas, Bryniau Brithion, Pentrevoelas; 8, John Edwards, Dylase Ucha, Penmachno. Mare or gelding, 14 handa and upwards: 1, David Roberts, Aelydon, Penmachno 2, W. H. Jones, Gwern- howel, Ysbytty. Pony (mare or gelding), 12$hands and under 14 hands: 1, William Pierce, Bodsfon, Penmachno; 2, David Roberts, Aelvdon, Penmachno. Pony, 11 hands and under 12t hands: 1. William Prichard, Bryn Crug, Penmachno; 2, J. O. Jones, Aneddle, Llanrwst. Mountain stallion: 1, William Prichard, Bryn Crug, Penmachno 2, David Evans, Penygroes. Foal or filly not over 11 hands 1, William Prichard, Bryn Crug, Penmachno; 2, David Evans, Penygroes. Mountain ponv a.nd foal, not over 11 hands: 1, 0. E. Morris, Dugoe: Penmachno 2, William Prich- ard, Bryn Orug, Penmachno. Foal sired by ''Young Denmark II." 1, John Jones, Fedw Deg, Penmachno. SPECIAL PRIZES. Best light horse in the show: David Roberts, Aelydon. Best mare or gelding for agrieuliural purposes, shown by exhibitor residing in district of show: W. Lloyd Thomas. Pentrevoelas. CATTLE (Open Classes'). Cow in calf or milk of any breed: 1 and 2. W. H. MR J. PARRY JONES, Solicitor, Under-Sheriff of Denbighshire. Jones, Gwernhowel, Ysbytty. Heifer, under 3 years old of any breed: 1, Herbert Hughes, Elwydene, Llanrwst; 2, J. G. Evans, Ty Gwyn, Lianrwst; 3, William Williams, Carrcgyblaidd, Ysbytty, Heifer under 2 years old of any breed: 1, J. G. Evans. Tygwyn, Llanrwst; 2, Robert Roberts, Cae'r Berllan, Llanrwst. Pair of yearling bullocks: 1, Herbert Hughes, Elwy- dene, Llanrwst. Pair of oxen, 2 years old and under 3 years: 1, J. G. Evans, Ty Gwyn, Llanrwst. LOOAL CLASSES. Bull 2 years old and over: 1, T. H. Jones, Maes- merddyn. Pentrevoelas; 2, R. H. Williams, Park, Penmachno. Bull under 2 years: 1, 0. E. Morris, Dugoed, Pen- machno. Calf under one year: 1, Pierce Prichard. Blaen Glasgwm, Penniactino; 2, Richard Thomas, Blaenddol, Penmachno; 3, Mark Oweu, Tynewydd ueha, Pen- machno. Welsh cow: 1 and 2, W. H. Jones, Gwernhowel, Ysbybtv 3, T. R. Jones, Moss Hill, Penmachno. Cow" of any other breed: 1, W. H. Jones, Gwern- howel, Ysbytty; 2, Richard Thomas, Blaenddol, Pen- machno 3. J-ohu E. Roberts, Henrhiw Uchal, Pen- machno. Welsh heifer 2 years and under 3 years: 1, William Williams, Oarregyblaidd, Ysbytty; 2, W. H. Jones, Gwernhowel, Ysbytty; 3, R. H. Williams, Park, Penmachno. Welsh heifer 1 vear and under 2: 1, John Pugh Jones, Carrog Terrace, Ysbytty; 2, W. H. Jones, Gwernhowel, Ysbytty; 3, Richard Thomas, Blaenddol, Penmachno. Special prize. Best exhibit in the local classes of cattle: W. H. Jones, Gwernhowel, Ysbytty. SHEEP (Open Classes). Welsh ram: 1, W. Lloyd Jones, Bryniau Brithion; 2, David Roberts, Aelydon, Penmachno. Welsh ram lamb: 1, David Roberts, Aelydon, Pen- machno 2, W. H. Jones. Gwernhowel, Ysbytty. Three Welsh ewes: 1, John Williams, Trofarth Farm, Llangerniew; 2, John P. Thomas, Pandy Mills, Pen- machno. Three Welsh ewe Iambs 1, David Rober, Aelydon, Penmachno; 2, John Evans, Trofarth Farm, Llanger- niew. 'LOCAL CLASSES. Welsh ram 1, W. Lloyd Thomas, Bryniau Brithion, Pentrevoelas; 2, W. H. Jones. Owernhowel, Ysbytty. Welsh ram lamb. I and 2, W. H. Jones, Gwero- howel, Ysbvttv. Three Welsh ewes: 1. 0. E. Morris, Dugoed, Pen- machno 2, Owen Williams, Plas Glasgwm, Pen- machno. Three Welsh ewe lambs: 1, 0. E. Morris, Dugoed, Penmachno; 2, Pierce Prichard, Biaen Glasgwm, Penmachno. Three Welsh ram lambs: 1, Owen Williams, Plas Glasgwm, Penmachno. Special prize for best ram or ram lamb in local classes: W. H. Jones, Gwernhowel. VARIOUS. Pound of fresh butter (new style): 1, John Hughes, Cerrig-gellgwm Isa, Ysbytty 2, Mrs Jones, Hafod Ifan, Ysbytty. Pound ot fresh butter (old style): 1, Annie Jones, Foel Ewigfynydd, Penmachno; 2, Sarah A. Evans, Upper Mills, Penmachno. Put of fresh butter 1. John Hughes, Cerrig-gellgwm, Ysbytty; 2, Mrs Mary Roberts, Park, Penmachno. Six coloured eggs: 1, Mrs Roberts, Park, Pen- machno 2, Mrs Davies, Tyddyngethin, Penmachno. Six white eggs: 1, Thomas Williams, Tynantybeddau, Festiniog; 2, Mrs Roberts. Park Farin, Penmachno. DRILLING AND SPLITTING SLATES. Drilling competition: 1. Cadwaladr Lloyd, Cwm Road, Penmachno; 2, J. O. Jones, Llewelyn Street, and Geo. Llovd, Carrog Terrace. Drilling competition: 1, Evan Roberts, White Street. Penmachno. SUCCESSFUL CONCERT. In the evening a grand concert wad held in fiha Public Hall, presided over by the Rev- Ben- Jonas. Dr. Williams being the conductor. The artistpr were Mr Vaugihan Davies, Carnar- von Miss Edith Davies, Wrexham; Miss Mad.gre Jonas, Ysbytty; harpist. Ap Eos y Death; I)onillion singer, Eos y Berth. There was an excellent attendance-

THE ROYAL OAKELEY SILVER BAND. The Royal Oakeley Silver Band, of Blaenau Festiniog, all the members of which are quarry- men, was formed about 24 years ago. Since then the band has won in open competition in various parts of t.he country prizes amounting to over £3000, besides winning outright the North Wales I Challenge Cup. It was the first band to hold the Royal National Eisteddfod Challenge Shield, and has won four first and two second prizes at the National Eisteddfod, which is a record in the his- tory of band competitions in Wales. Last year it was resolved to compete at the South Wales National Eisteddfod. The band left home a fortnight before the date of the Eisteddfod, and held concerts en route to Swansea, which were attended by large audiences, who were delighted with the musical selections forming the band's repertoire. Some of the leading bands in the Principality took part in the competition at the Eisteddfod. The award was given in favour of tho Royal Oakeley, which became thereby the ohampion band for the year. The following week the band competed at Bello Vue, Manchester, for tho championship, and were awarded the fourth prizes in a contest in which the best bands of the country participated. Such a success had only onco before been achieved by a Welsh band, and that was in 1852, when the Morriston Band got fourth place in a similar contest. Tihe prizes won bv the Oakeley Band at Pro- vincial and other Ei-rteddfod'au are too numor 0116 to men/tion seriatim here. Remarks of soane of the adjudicators to the effect that the playing of the band was "like an organ," that it was "worth listening to," "a fine, sonorous tone in every respect, that it showed "how musio ishoaild be played." "a treat in every respect." etc. With two exceptions. 0..11 the m-amiber3 work ovary day in the quarries. T'here are three practices a week, but before a contest there is a practice every evening-, and on Saturday afternoon Naturally, the people of Blaenau Festiniog are proUJdl of their band, and subscribe towardjs the funds, and the band in turn readily renders eorvioa in connection witih local charitable and other objects. The present conductor of the band is Mr J. E. Fidlor, an excellent musician and instrumen- talist, and Mr Lewis Davies is the popular and energetic pwretary- Tiie bandsmen—from loft 0;1 top row to the right ;-D. W. Davies W. Williams (bass), J. W- Griffith (bas^ trombone), T- E- Owen (2nd trombone), W. Edwards (solo trom- bone). Owen Thomas J. O. Jones (com- mittee), W. Smith (bass), R. M. Jones (bari- tone), Willie Williams (cannot). O. Lloyd Wil- liams (horn), Elias Jones (horn). R. Smith (soio euphonium), W. Hughes (committee), W. Da- vies (committee) J. R. Hughes (.solo baritone), T. E. Hughes (comet). Hugh Lloyd (oJornet), Thomas Morton (cornet), Hugh Roberts (cor- net), R. L. Griffith (solo horn), Vv Edwards (committee) Llew. Owen (solo oomet), J. W. Soott (solo cornet)- J. E. Fidler (conduotor), Lewis Davies (secretary), E. Jones soJo cornet), E- Morris Jones (soprano)-

FESTINIOG URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL PUBLIC LIGHTING: A LONG DISCUSSION. ELECTION OF TREASURER. (From Our Reporter). The monthly meeting of the above Council was held on Friday evening, when there were pre- sent Messrs David Williams (chairman), J. Cad- walader (vice-chairman), J. Lloyd Jones, senr., J. Lloyd Jones, junr., C. Roberts. T. J. Roberts, Owen Jones, Hugh Jones, chemist; Hugh Jones, Llan; E. M. Owen, Evan Jones, Willia-m Owen, W. Edwards, Lewis Richards, Richard Roberts, Hugh Lloyd. Richard Jones, R. C. Jones, B. T. Jones, R. T. Jones, R. 0. Davies (clerk), AUt- wen Williams (engineer), Dr. Richard Jones (medical officer), and George Davies (sanitary in- spector). The Chairman expressed the gratification of the Council at feeing Mr Owen Jones present after his return from a visit to America. SANITATION. According to a report submitted it appeared tha.t satisfactory progress was made with the bacteria beds at Cwmbowydd. It was decided to urge the contractor to push forward the con- struction of the walling. It was stated that a special committee would report to the Health Committee as soon as possible on Rhiw and Tanygrisiau sewerage. ROADS IN GOOD CONDITION. The Surveyor reported that the roads were in good condition, and that the farmers who had been requested to prime the hedges that inter- fered with traffic on the roads, had done the work. OEI MAWR CLIFF. This cliff was considered to be dangerous, and it was stated that the surveyor had done all he could to protect the plaoe without interfering with the telegraph wires, and had sent to the county surveyor the particulars about the state of the cliff. Mr Yaughton replied to the effect that the surveyor should do all that was re- quired to safeguard the place, and send in a bill which would be paid by the county. The Council declined to carry out the county surveyor's suggestion before he himself had in- spected the cliff. FINANCIAL. Bi:lë; amounting to £ 836 5s lid were passed for payment. The Collector reported that he had oollected during the month £ 485 12s 8d in tolls, rates, etc. Through a contribution of £ 185 from the county the finances of the Urban Council showed a credit balance of E120. REPRESENTATIVES. Mr William Owen was elected representative on the County Committee under Mr Haldane's new Army scneme, and Dr. Richard Jones, re- presentative at Garden City Association's con- ference. MOTOR DANGER SIGNALS. A letter was received from Mr R. M. Greaves, Wern, drawing attention to the danger p.pnals for motorists placed on the roads. He said that these signals instead-of being a help were posi- tively dangerous to motorists. They had been placed on the wrong eide of the roads, and in that way caueed a misunderstanding amongst motor drivers. Mr Hugh Lloyd: Who placed the notices on the wrong side? The Surveyor: Only a few were put up. We did our best with them. More have since been reoeived. Mr H. Lloyd: The fact that only a few of the notices came to hand is no reason why they should have been put up on the wrong side of the road. The Chairman: They have now been placed on the right side. The rest of the notioes will be put up bv to-morrow. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS. A letter was received from Miss Wheldon, daughter of the Rev. T. J. Wheldon, Bangor, acknowledging the Council's expression of sym- pathy with the family, owing to the illness of the Rev. T. J. Wheldon. Mr W. J. Rowlands, a member of the Council, thanked the members for their resolution con- doling with him on the death of his mother. PUBLIC LIGHTING. RESCINDING A RESOLUTION. Mr William Owen had on the agenda a notice of motion to rescind a resolution recently passed by the Council that the street lamps should be extinguished at ten o'clock. Before Mr Owen proceeded with the motion the Clerk said he had been asked to ascertain the economy likely to be effected by putting out the lamps at ten p.m. instead of at eleven p.m. The net amount saved would be about A;40 a. year. Mr Owen then proposed his resolution. He waa not in favour of rescinding any resolution unless there were strong jreasons for doing so. There were exceptional reasons in the present case which amply justified the rescinding of the resolution. The reasons adduced in favour of putting out. the lamps at ten o'clock were alleged to be based on economy, trade depression, and the requirements of the police force. Taking up the question of economy, he asked if putting out the lights at ten o'clock saved money, why did they not put them out at nine or eight o'clock? There was a time when the place oould do without lamps. But now, since they had streets and lanes which were traversed by a large number of people at night, lamps were required. If they wanted to economise, let them begin nearer home. The streets were not lighted for the sake of the shops or of local trade, shop-keepers and tradesmen provided their own lights, and ciosed their establishments early on most of the evenings. The streets were lighted for the benefit of all the inhabitants. It had been stated that Inspector Roberts had expressed his opinion that the police preferred the lamps put out at ten o'clock. Mr Owen had aekro the inspector if the statement was true? The officer denied ever having made it, and added that it would be an advantage to the police if the lamps were kept lighted up to 11.30 p.m. The estimated amount saved in expenditure by putting lights out at ten o'clock was £ 40 per annum. Was that amount of saving of more importance than the convenience and safety of the public? The streets and lanes, owing to the mountains that cast" their shadows upon them, were darker than similar places in open spaces where there were no mountains. He believed that all of them had by this time seen that the resolution on the minutes was a mistake. Such places as Pwllheli, Llanrwst and Conway allowed the lamps to be lit all night. Mr T. J. Roberts seconded the motion. He believed that they had had enough of the dark- ness which all could almost feel. Accidents had occurred because the streets were not lighted. Mr Hugh Lloyd said that all agreed that public lamps were required, but the question was at what time should they be extinguished? Mr Owen argued if they wanted to economise, why did they not put out the lights at nine o'clock? Mr Lloyd's answer to that was that the trains came in at that time. He ventured to say that 90 per cent. of the inhabitants were in their houses at ten o'clock. Mr Lloyd: If 90 per cent. of the 11,000 inhabi- tants were in their houses at 10 o'clock, then, there were only about 1000 in the streets. But I know very well that that number is wrong. The num- ber cannot be more than 500. I think it will be an advantage to the police to put out the lights &t ten o'clock in order that they may get their eyes used to the darkness when publio- houses olose at eleven o'clock. Mr Owen asked Mr Lloyd for proof of hii statement that only 500 people were out aftet ten o'clock. Mr Lloyd: I only gave you my opinion. Upon 0. division ten voted in favour of rescindU ing the resolution and eight against. ELECTION OF TREASURER. Mr R. Parry, N. and S. Wales Bank, having removed from the town, it became necessary TO appoint a new treasurer in his stead. Mr O. Jones proposed, and Mr H. Lloy4 seconded, a resolution expressing regret at th6 departure of Mr Parry, and great satisfaction with the way he had during the last nine yearf fulfilled his duties as treasurer. The motion was passed unanimously. Mr C. Roberts proposed the election of Mr I-I. Ariander Hughes, Metropolitan Bank, aI treasurer, and said that Mr Hughes had been it» the place for 27 years, and had identified himself with all public movements in the district. Mr Roberts wanted the various parochial treasure ships to be distributed amongst the local banks, instead of thoir being in one bank only. Mr J. Cadwaladex seoonded, Mr William Owen, whilst quite prepared t" support the resolution, said he felt they wouli be doing an injustice to the N. and S. Wal«C Bank if they left it. Ho proposed the election of Mr H. Pu.eston Jones, who was Mr Parry < successor. Mr H. Lloyd seconded. Mr Owen Jones was sincerely sorry that he would have to vote against Mr Hughes, whtt was a personal friend of his. He was afraid that if they changed their bank it might be looked upon as a reflection upon the N. and S. Wales Bank, though nothing of the king could possibly be in their mind. The voting resulted in 13 being in favour of Mr Hughes, and 7 for Mr Jonea.

MR STANLEY WEYMAN'S NEW NOViiU INTERESTING PEN PICTURE. Mi Stanley Weyman hat just issued a new booig being a collection of short stories, entitled "Laid up in Lavender" (Smith Elder and Company). 1q a lengthy review a writer m the "Daily Mail" relates now Mr Weyman, now regarded as ouir foremost historical novelist, first came before ttm public. It is a good many years back that a tale o( adventure entitled "Tne House of the Wolf'* was running somewnat obscarely in the pages ol "Longman's Magazine" over a new name. That nallla btartley Weyman, an author who wag ir 81; aig his bow to a world as one of the many literary folk who have been disoovered, lDoo vented, encouraged, or promoted by Mr Andrew Lang. No on». if we remember aright, ir* overmuch attention to The House of the Wolf, and yet it inaugurated the career of the oliiet historical romancer of our time. The tale dealt with tiie Frauoe of Bartholomew's Day, and to France Mr Weyman nas been urusually faithful His re- putation burst into Power a little later with "A. Gentleman of France," when be was publioll acclaimed as our own ohampion of the historical novel. This title he vigorously justified with suco- ofs&ive bocks, "Under tho Red Robe," 'My I^dy Rotha," "The Red Cockade," and others. Not but, what he put tentative feet forward in the direction of the novel, and promise was evi- denced and recognised in "The New Rector," o- "The Story of Franois Cludde." But for the most part he remained loyal to his last, and. mounted and armed cap-a-pie, swashbucklered it over the Continent. You will observe that it was the Continent, and not his native land, that be honoured. It never seems to enter into the heada of soma novelets that to write a tale of part times it is not necessary to write of history. Of perhaps it i3 that. sounding events make fine and easy play in a volume. At least, historical novels so-called in this country usually deal with one of the periods the Civil Wars, the Monmouth Rebellion, or the Jacobite insurrections. The rest of the centuries lie enwrapped in silence. Abroad, on the other hand, you may ruffle il round any corner and into any petty kingdoiq with the oertainty of finding adventures an<l episodes for all tastes. It is difficult, indeed, to walk across history on the blood-boltered Coa- tinent without stumbling into wars or assassins* tions or conspiracies. You see there is one diii- Advantage attaching to a peaceful history t novelists are driven abroad for their themes. But Mr Weyman was being educated, He was not one of those who remain where they start. Out of methodical spectacles he surveyed the wIden- ing field. And then he made a gallant, a wello intentioned, but a bad shot with Shrewsbury." He had wilfully broken with two traditions right away. He had withdrawn from tbt Continent before the incursions of his many emulators, and he had abandoned the romantic here. The central figure of "Shrews- bury" was a cur, and the public would not havo him. Here, we think, Mr Weyman's steadfart courage reflects great credit on him. He stuck to England and renounced history, and gave ua quite a brilliant piece of bravura in "The Cast I. Inn." And so, having established himself on hit own estate, he proceeded swiftly to develop it. He is now fifty-two years of age, and the best work we have had from him has been contained in his last two books, "Starve-crow Farm" anS "Chippinge." Yet to compare "Chippinge" with "The Stooping Lady" of Mr Hewlett is to mark tha d jferonoe between a very talented writer and on 9 with a touch of genius, Mr Weyman is meticulously correct in his work. His meohanisni is admirable, and he makes a perfect model as to form. Hi never throws the reins on his horae" necks; he never even gallops with a loose rein. His Pegasus is well in hand always, well groomed, well bred, well exercised, and well fed. No antics and no capers for him! Those precious wildings of the spirit grow not in these weU- ordered plots. His love of form is reduced al- most to a formula, and, one feels, business habita rule his pages. Yet within the limits of hig frock-coat romance he claims a mastery. And J he will go on with his evolution on the lines oi "Chippingo" he will attain to a more important position than has been hitherto his. The worst of it is that. with our known writers there are no surprises. The Alma Tademas do not break away from their marble prisons. They go on contentedly with the work appointed them by their own callow judgment or the taste of the public. But "Chilpinge" points a way, and we hope to see Mr Weyman take it.

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