The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

Another shocking crime was perpetrated in London on Tuesday. A little boy named Cattle was missed by his mother, who, in view of the fact that a child was murdered in the same locality two months ago, became greatly alarmed for his safety. A diligent search was made, and in a stable, the door of which had to be forced open, the poor child was at length found securely tied up in a sacÀ: beneath a pile of market baskets. There were wounds in the chest and abdomen, and had the dis- covery been delayed a little longer the child must have perished. The inquiries of the police resulted in the discovery that a youth named Gamble, who was arrested for the previous crime but discharged for want of evidence, was the last person seen in the child's company, and the police at once re- arrested him. The hearing of the Southampton election petition was resumed on Tuesday. The petitioner's case having concluded, Mr. Candy opened the case for the respondents as considerable length. He gave an absolute denial to the charges made, and said that as to the costers Mr. Chamberlayne had noth- ing at all to do with them, and only wanted to get rid of them. The story as to Mr. Chamberlayne giving away beer was an absolute and malicious lie. Sir Barrington Simeon, the Liberal Unionist candidate, stated that he said when standing, Let me win like a gentleman." He denied most strenu- ously that he had been guilty of any ungentlemanly or illegal action, and said his honour was untarn- ished.—Mr. Tankerville Chamberlayne, M.P., was called, and gave an emphatic denial to the charges against him. He never gave any beer, nor did he give any to people who asked, indeed he flatly re- fused them. The election was quiter and attended with far less drunkenness than in 1892. He also denied that he had promised any voters assistance during the winter. The witness was subjected to very severe cross-examination, but he adhered firmly to his denials of the acts charged against him.—The inquiry was, adjourned.

ABERYSTWYTH. Our representative in Aberystwyth is Mr. J. DENLEY SPENCER, 11, Custom House Street, to whom notice should be given of all events required to be reported in the COUNTY TIMES. POLICE COURT.—At the Police Court on Tuesday, before Mr Geo. Davis, Abew Davies, farmer, Llan- fihangel-y-Crewddyn was charged with being drunk on the highway.—Fined 5s including costs. The case was proved by P. C. Davies. THE LLEWELYN MEMORIAL.—Principal Roberts has been elected chairman of the local committee, Professor Edward Edwards treasurer, and Mr J. Hugh Edwards hon. sec. The district around about will be worked from Aberystwyth, and steps will be at once taken to collect subscriptions. SALEM LITERARY SOCIETY. — The forthcoming session in connection with the Salem Literary Society promises to be a successful one. Amongst the list of those who have promised to take part in the work occur the names of Prof. Anwyl, M.A., Prof. Samuel, M.A., and the President, each of whom will present a paper of works of an inler- esting and instructive nature. EDUCATION.—During the past week the scholars in the day school have been examined by Mr W. Williams, chief inspector, Mr L. J. Roberts, Mr Thomas, and Mr Johnson. STORM.—The coast was visited by a very severe storm on Wednesday and which continued through- out the next day. The waves ran high and washed over the stone pier at the harbour. The work of repairing the getties at the harbour had to be stopped as it was impossible for any repairing to be done in the face of so strong a gale. So far no damage is reported.

RATEPAYERS' ASSOCIATION. HUMOROUS INCIDENTS. A meeting of the Ratepayers' Association was held in the Market Hall on Friday evening for the purpose of determining as to the future of the association, the question being whether it should be carried on or wound up. There were present a little after eight o'clock, the hour at which the meeting was announced to commence, Mr Colby, the chairman, Messrs J. Morgan (Observer), E. Evans, T. Hopkins, and — Evans (Corn Market), with Mr Nightingale, secretary. Other members dropped in during the evening, but before going on with the business the chairman went in search of one of the officials, and some time elapsed before his return. In the meantime the company had been further strengthened by the presence of Messrs J. E. James, Edward Ellis, Isaac Hopkins, — Bennison, and T. E. Salmon. The CHAIRMAN said that the balance sheet showed a balance of £1 7s. Out of this they had to take the sum of 93 6d for current expenses, and he proposed that the balance of 17s 6d be handed to the secretary, who had not been paid the whole of his salary. He would not occupy the position of chairman any longer. The association was so poorly supportec, that he would not join it any more. It would be necessary that someone should speak upon the balance sheet He thought it would be better to have the minutes read. The SECRETARY read a report copied from a local paper, which he submitted as hia report of the minutes. The minutes were not correct, and alterations had to be made and several words struck out of the reprint before they were accepted. The CHAIRMAN again intimated his intention to hand over to the secretary the balance in hand. Mr C. EVANS said that it was their duty to decide as to whether the association should be con- tinued or not. The SECRETARY said he would not accept the money if they were desirous of carrying it on. Mr. J. MORGAN said that be thought it desir- able to have an organisation of that character in the town. Questions of public interest may arise, and unless they had an association of that kind they would have no chance of discussing them. He pro- posed that they carry on the association. Mr. W. ROBERTS seconded. He could not see any reason for giving up the association. Of course, if the association had not met with the views of certain people and had been a failure in the past there was no reason why it should not continue. His idea of the association was to discuss and keep public matters before them. He would be glad to see members of the County Council and Town Council present amongst them, and by this means they would be in touch with the people. They, as a body, had a right to be heard, and if it was necessary to call a public meeting they had an executive to whom .they could look to. Under these circumstances he thought they should con- tinue. Mr. T. GRIFFITHS said that he wished to sup- port the proposition. Mr. J. E. JAMES thought it was a pity that they should drop the association. It was necessary that they should rally the association and make a basis upon which they could work so that each individual would have a chance of saying what he considered to be best for the ratepayers. Mr. D. J. LEWIS said that the people had been looking forward to this association as a place where they could give expression to their grievances. If they kept together they might discuss the ques- tions before the Council. All the good men of the town were not on the Council; there were plenty of good men outside the Council, and the members of the Council ought to be proud of such an associa- tion (hear, hear). Mr. ISAAC HOPKINS was sorry that the rate- payers of the town did not take more interest in the work of the association, as it was a non-political one. He was in favour of supporting the motion. Mr EVANS (chemist) was sorry that the chair- man had declared his intention of leaving them. He had been a veteran in the service, and he hoped that the chairman would not leave them now. Although they were not large in numbers, still they had a good deal of power, and had frightened the Town Council into doing things which other- wise they would not have done. He thought that they might have an hon. secretary to help in the work. Mr EDWARD ELLIS said that 45 years ago he was a member of a similar association in the town. If they wanted to keep the association together they must avoid personalities. There was another fault they foand in the association Twelve months last November certain persons were nominated by the association whom he considered quite incapable of representing them; but those who named the persons knew that those nominated had no qualifications. He had asked the secretary to write to Liverpool and get the rules of that association. There the association was very strong, and no doubt many of the members were tutored into the affairs of the town and subsequently became members of the Council. It was actually necessary that they should keep together. The proposal of a drive around the Castle was worthy of discussion, and he again warned them of introducing personalities. They ought to be friends with each other, and he trusted that the chairman would retain the chair until he was asked to vacate it (hear, hear) HOPKINS said that lie was a member of the Association from its commencement, the be. ginning, and he never asked anyone to bring his name forward. He had fought it independent from the beginning. Mr ELLIS said that he never intended the remark to apply to Mr. Hopkins. Mr. LEWIS said that the mistake was found out after the election referred to by Mr. Ellis and they had learnt a lesson since then. The CHAIRMAN was glad to hear that there were so many present willing to keep the Associa- tion. He could not, however, feel that it was any use to try, with a deficit of half-a-dozen pounds staring them in the face. There they came to a financial difficulty. It would not be wcrth while to carry it on because the attendance was so poor, and he had no reason for thinking that it would be better. If the ratepayers took a greater interest, perhaps he would reconsider. He did not like to hear it said that they frightened the Town Council; they did not want to frighten that body. Mr. ELLIS said that if it was made known that something interesting was beingr discussed there they would have a better attendance. He pro- ceeded to advise them to get Mr. Gibson to address them or to read his articles there- Mr. J. MORGAN called him to order and asked that the question be now put. Mr. ELLIS said that perhaps they might get lectures. The motion was put and carried. Councillor HOPKINS: If we mado mistakes in the past let us improve in the future (hear, hear.) Mr. J. MORGAN proposed that they meet the first Friday in the New Year to proceed to the election of officers. The CHAIRMAN said that before they did that they must appoint a secretary, because the secre- tary's term was up. Mr. J. GRIFFITHS seconded the proposal made by Mr. Morgan. Mr. ELLIS proposed that Mr. Thomas act as treasurer up to Christmas. Mr. THOMAS said that if they had a desire to go on he would not stand in their way; but at the same time he still held that new men should be appointed. Why should they not appoint officers from those present that evening. He proposed that. Mr. LEWIS said that there were more present I that evening than on the last occasion anu perhaps they would have a larger attendance in the future. Íl". EVANS seconded Mr. Thomas's proposition. Mr. J. MORGAN said that he did not wish to hurt the feelings of anyone but he thought they ought to have a new chairman, and in a month's time they would have an opportunity of looking the matter up. The CHAIRMAN said that when he was asked to be chairman he said that whoever occupied the chair cught to be one of the leading tradesmen of the town and te was not one. Mr. Ellis got up to make another speech but The CHAIRMAN said that they must get through the business as it was getting late. He wished to express his private opinion—if the meeting was in favour of putting it off he would take it that none of those present were willing to take the work (" No, No.") Mr. BENNINGTON proposed that they have a meeting in a fortnight. Mr. HOPKINS suggested that they appoint a committee to bring a report to the meeting in the first week in January. Mr. SALMON said that there was no notice on the agenda respecting the appointment of officers that evening and it was only fair that the rate- payers should know. He thought that it should be adjourned. The CHAIRMAN proposed that they vote upon the question. Mr. SALMON You are out of order. Mr. J. MORGAN suggested that they were get- ting mixed because there were already some pro- positions before the meeting. Mr. THOMAS urged that they appoint the officers that night. The CHAIRMAN was about to put the question to the vote when he was called to order, as it was out of order. He then put the amendment to appoint officers that night but it was lost, and the motion to adjourn was carried. The CLERK asked what they were going to do about the Secretary. Were they going to pay him. The SECRETARY said that his year of office did not expire until December 17 (hear, hear). The CHAIRMAN interposed. Mr. J. MORGAN said that the Chairman muse let someone else have a word. Whereupon the Chairman left the chair and would not return. Mr. J. E. JAMES said that this was one of the surest ways of dissolving the association. Mr. ELLIS asked that all those in favour of the Chairman retaking the chair should vote in the usual way. This was carried. The CHAIRMAN I shall not enter the chair until Mr, Morgan withdraws his remarks about me. He has insulted me in the chair (hear, hear). Mr. DAVIES said that he believed Mr. Morgan and the Chairman were speaking too much. If Mr. Morgan would keep quiet and give other people a chance it would be better for all of them (laughter). If they were going to start afresh they must give and take He believed that Mr. Morgan ought to withdraw (hear, hear). Mr. J. MORGAN said that he certainly quite agreed that he spoke too much but for the last half-an-hour he had been trying to put the Chair- man right (laughter). [Voice Apologise.] Mr. J. MORGAN I withdraw my remarks then (hear, hear). The CHAIRMAN again took the chair. He said that Mr. Morgan had tried to squash the chair, but the chair could not be squashed (laughter). The motion to meet that day fortright was then carried, and after a few remarks by some of the late comers who went over the ground already travelled at the commencement of the meeting, the gathering broke up. (

TOWN COUNCIL. THURSDAY. Present: Councillor T Griffiths (Mayor) in the chair, Aldermen Peter Jones, Thomas Doughton and D Reberts, Councillors Dr Harries, C. M. Wil. liams, E P Wynne, l £ *.ac Hopkins, Robt Doughton, R Peake, J Watkins, jun., R J Jones, W Thomas, J Jenkins, with Mr A J Hughes, clerk, Mr Charles Massey, assistant clerk, Mr H L Evans, borough accountant, and Mr Rees Jones, surveyor. A NEW MEMBER. The CLERK reported that Mr C. M. Williams was the only person nominated for the vacant seat on the Council, and he was duly elected and had signed the declaration. THE FISHERMEN'S COMPLAINT. A letter was lead from Capt Davies, captain of the fishing smack Charlotte asking the Council to remove the stones from the north-west corner of the harbour so that he could bring the boat in for repairing purposes (laughter). Aldermau PETER JONES said the Harbour Master had the sole management of the harbour, and it was his duty to see that the ships were berthed. Councillor HOPKINS I think that letter ought to go to the Harbour Committee Alderman PETER JONES said it was within the province of the Harbour Master to locate the different vessels' berths. It was certainly within his province because the responsibility rested en- tirely with him. Councillor HOPKINS I have got a boat with a hole knocked in her by the stones. Who is going to look after that ? The CLERK The Harbour Master and ihen he must report to the committee. This certainly seems to be a matter for the Harbour Master. Councillor HOPKINS I do not think that the Harbour Master will do anything until the com- mittee take it up. The Council ordered the stones there aad they ought to order them away. The Harbour Mastei has nothing to do with the stones. Alderman PETER JONES He has the exclusive management of berthing the vessels. Councillor HOPKINS: I propose that it be re- ferred to the Harbour Committee if the Council will not do anything with it. The MAYOR asked if there was room for the boats to go up. Councillor HOPKINS said that there was not and that the stones were as sharp as knives. THE .LIGHTING OF THE TOWN. Messrs Bourne and Grant enclosed a copy of their accounts up to Dec., 1894, in accordance with the Act of 1892. Alderman PETER JONES moved that it be referred to the Public Lights Committee.—Agreed. Councillor HOPKINS: I do not understand what you are going to do about that letter. Alderman PETER JONES: It has fallen through. LONDON ROAD. A long letter respecting the condition of this road was read from Mr Nightingale. The matter had already been dealt with, and Alderman Peter Jones pointed out to Councillor Watkius who rose to speak, that a report on the road would be found in the minutes of the Public Works Committee. FINANCE COMMITTEE'S REPORT. Councillor R. J. JONES presented the report of the Finance Committee which included payment in wages and bills of the sum of £159 15s lid. This portion was adopted. THE NEW RATE. The Committee recommended that a water rate of Is in the £ and a general district rate of Is 4d in the £ be passed. Councillor JONES moved its adoption and he was glad to say that their financial position was better this half-year than it was during the last ht..1f-year.- Adopted. PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE'S REPORT. Alderman PETER JONES presented the report of the Public Works Committee, and moved the adoption of the report. Councillor It PEAKE seconded. Councillor HOPKINS said that he would move an amendment to one of the paragraphs. He was not quite agreed with the Committee the other night on the Terrace when they met to see about railings in front of Dr. Harries' and Mr. Howell's houses. Instead of putting them between the windows he proposed that they be carried out according to the plan submitted by the Surveyor— a few inches outside the bay window in a straight line. Alderman D. ROBERTS seconded the amend- ment. Councillor PEAKE I should like to ask the Surveyor if it is his suggestion that the railings should be placed outside. The SURVEYOR said that he simply carried out the views of the owners of the houses. Councillor R. DOUGHTON said that if the amendment was carried it would look unsightly and would be robbing the town. He was in favour of having as many open spaces as they could have, and if this scheme was carried out according to the amendment there would be no room for the people to pass round the corner. He was in favoftr of putting the railings in the recess, and he thought that it would look very well, but otherwise it would make the footpath narrow and on the whole would be very undesirable. Councillor R. J. JONES supported the amend- ment. He visited the spot in company with four or five of the Finance Committee when they hap- pened to be in the locality and the Surveyor was with them, and a proper survey of the whole place made. He considered that if the rails were put on that side they would have a straight line more uniform in character than at the present time. As regarded encroachment it was only a matter of 4} inches and would be no obstruction. It was perfectly ridiculous to talk of robbing the the town," as according to Mr. Jones's plan that portion of the corr.er would be reduced, and this did away with Councillor Doughton's argument entirely. Councillor DOUGHTON: Oh, very good (laughter) Councillor THOMAS said he should vote against the amendment, and he would press upon the gentlemen who were going to vote for it to declare publicly that they would support similar applica- tions from any other quarters of the town. Councillor R. J. JONES I am prepared to do so any time. Councillor THOMAS Very well. Around the National Provincial Bank. Councillor R. J. JONES t There are no lines of rails in North Parade a all, Councillor WATKIN said that he was not pre- pared to :grant these cases indiscriminately, but every ca3e should be taken upon its merits such as the one now before them. He did not think it would be an obstruction and he supported the amendment. Alderman ROBERTS said that he was of opinion that the railings would be an improvement and he woutd be pleased to grant any similar applications. Councillor C. M. WILLIAMS appealed to Dr. Harries to say that he would not accept four inches of space at'ithe hands of the Council. Alderman DOUGHTON said that this had no thing to do with the owners of the two houses. He did not see that the Council could hinder the owners from railing off the recesses as they were entitled to that space. He could not see where the obstruction would be. Dr. HARRIES said that what he simply wanted was a protection from the loafers who hung around the house. He never specified the number of inches, but left it to Mr. Rees Jones for the latter to say what would be best to do. He would be quite satisfied with two inches or one inch if it would afford him the protection that he sought. The police ran after boys playing football, and if they cleared the loafers they would be doing some good. If they passed it that day he would leave it in their hands to do what was right. Alderman DOUGHTON What you want is pro- tection from loungers. Alderman PETER JONES said he was one of those who visited the spot. They all quite shared the expression made use of by Dr. Harries that there was cause of complaint^on the part of the owners of the property owing to persons congre- gating there and it was with the object of pre- venting that assembly that they made the recom- mendation. On being put to the vote the numbers for and against were equal. The MAYOR said that he would like to get a rail around his own house; but he did not see any objection to grant the present application and he should therefore vote for the amendment. The amendment was accordingly carried. Speakiugupon the smoke nuisance, Dx. HARRIES said that it was only fair to Councillor Jenkins to say that there were a number of persons prepared to proceed under the Public Health Act and he intended bring the question before the Council. Respecting the Lovedon road Councillor WAT- KLN pointed out that the committee merely re- commended that the footway be repaired. The road was in a disgraceful state and the footway was used by the carriages and carts. Something ought to be done to the road. Alderman PETER JONES said that it would be necessary to have 15 inches of macadam upon it. At present there was a Considerable amount of work going on in the town and the men were em- ployed in carrying out work under the Private Streets Act. The road was a comparatively new one and there was at present a heavy traffic for building purposes. Taking this into consideration the committee thought that it would be preferable to repair the footpath for the present only but cer- tainly with the intention of putting that road into substantial condition the same as other roads. Councillor WATKIN asked if the Surveyor in- tended to put a kerb stone down ? The SURVEYOR said that there would be a considerable amount of filling up to do before the kerb stone could bo put down. Councillor THOMAS pointed out there would be a considerable quantity of filling in required before it would be done properly. Councillor HOPKINS said that it was not right that carts and carriages should be allowed to go over the footpath. It was decided to in the hwrrtia of the Surveyor. Councillor HOPKINS called the Council's atten. tion to the state of the two roads, one at the end of the Terrace and the other at the back cf the South Terrace. They were a disgrace to the town and ought not to be allowed. The report was then adopted. RENEWAL OF LEASES. There were five applications for renewal of leases, all of which were referred to the Finance Committee. THE LIGHTING OF THE TOWN. The following motion stood in the name of Dr. Harries :—" That the Public Lights Committee be required to consider and report upon the desirability and probable cost of lighting the meat and general market, the town clock, and the old Assembly Rooms by means of the electric light." Dr HARRIES said that be wished to omit the two items dealing with the lighting of the town clock and the meat market. His reason for doing so was that in the case of the town clock the in- candescent lamps would have to be renewed every 900 or 1,000 hours. Another reason was because thev would not have electricity after 12 o'clock at night, and for the present that question was done with. In three weeks they hoped to have new burners of three candle power, burning only six cubic feet per hour, and the burners would last 5,000 hours. Referring to the bad airin the reading room of the Library, he said that it was unfit for young people to go there and sit and read, an I the rooms required improving by the presence of incan- descent lights. The people in the neighbourhood of Tancae called loudly for an arc lamp to be erected at this side of the town, such as had been done elsewhere. The cost would not be so great as in the case of Shiloh, as the cable was already laid in the street. Same people said that it was his" election cry," but it was not, it was his election programme. Councillor C. M. WILLIAMS seconded the pro- position of Dr Harries that the matters be referred to the committee, and this was agreed to. A PRECEPT. On the motion of Councillor R. J. JONES, seconded by Councillor I. HOPKINS, a precept was granted directed to the Churchwardens and Over. seers requiring them to raise the sum of £250, in obedience to a precept of the Aberystwyth School Board made on the 18th day of November, 1895. being the amount required for the purposes of the said School Board up to the 25th day of March, 1896, and that the Corporation Seal be affixed to the said precept by the Mayor- ELECTION TO COMMITTEES. On the motion of Councillor THOMAS seconded by Councillor PEAKE, Councillor C. M. Williams was appointed- on the FiDauce' General Purposes, and Library Committees. THE DISPOSAL OF TOWN REFUSE. Alderman PETER JONES mentioned that the work of covering the main sewer had been com- pleted—(hear, hear)—and the question now arose as to the ventilation of the sewage gas which would necessitate the erection of a shaft, and he thought perhaps it would be possible to work the destructor in the same shaft. As they were all aware the quantity of town refuse was very small not amounting to more than SIX or seven tons, adding that one cell would be ample for that purpose. There was an excellent system carried on at Ealing, and it was also carried on in different parts of London. He thought that perhaps the Council would allow the Surveyor to pay a visit to these works and see for himself- They would remember the great benefit derived from the Surveyor's visit to Birmingham where he went to see the slaughter houses, by which they had adopted the system in vogue there. At present there were cheap bookings to London, and the Surveyor would be able to bring back a report in the course of a few days. Dr HARRIES said that he was going t<. give them notice to bring the matter forward that day fortnight. He had been in communication with many eminent firms, and had obtained a mass of information upon the question. One letter he had received that morning he would be glad to hand over to the Surveyor to whom it might possibly be of some aid. As regards the ventilation of the sewer he suggested that a pipe should be run into the shaft of the gas works because that was always in work, whilst a destructor would not be working for 15 or 21 days during the 12 months. The SURVEYOR said that he had seen Mr Dougal about connecting the pipe at the gas works, but it was found to be quite impracticable. Dr. HARRIES Then we shall have to build a shaft of our own. I Councillor THOMAS said that they should have as much information as possible, and they were in- debted to Dr. Harries for the trouble he had taken in the matter. At the same time they needed something more than information on paper, and he was in favour of letting the Surveyor go to inspect the places mentioned, and see the distributor iu actual work. They must make a move before next year, and he would certainly support the motion that the Surveyor should go and report upon the matter. Dr HARRIES pointed out that at Ealing the work was done by electricity, and they could not hope to do the same at Aberystwyth. Alderman DOUGHTON Where will the distri- butor be placed P Alderman PETER JONES said that would follow. Of course they had very glowing accounts and very plausible versions of the working at other places, but it would be better to have the impartial opinion of Mr Jones upon the question, and also as to whether they were injurious or not. Dr. HARRIES said that he had the opinion of Professor Stevenson, the greatest authority in the world, and he said that there was no nuisance caused by a properly constructed distributor. The CLERK said that he had also received a lot of information from other bodies upon the matter. Dr. HARRIES seconded the proposition that the Surveyor be allowed to go and obtain as much information as he possibly could. The motion was carried, and the Council rose.

RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL. MONDAY. A meeting of the Council was held on Monday when there were present:—Messrs. James Jones (Chairman), J. M. Williams (vice-chairman), Daniel Morris, Lewis Richards, Charles Davies, John Jones, Evans, Richards, Thos Powell, Thos Morgan, D Morgan, John Jones, J B Morgan, R Davies, E J Evans, Mr Hugh Hughes (clerk), and Mr Davies (assistant clerk). DANGEROUS ROADS. A letter was read from the Parish Council of Llanvchaiarn calling the attention of the Council to the sharp curves on the highways near to Bryn- eithin and Pistyllgwyn, and one of the fences along the highway near Pwlldefeid. It was also stated in the letter that several accidents had occurred at these places and in the event of further accidents damages may be claimed. Mr CHARLES DAVIES said that it was absol- utely necessary that something should be done at those places. The CHAIRMAN did not think Pistyllgwyn and Pwlldefeid were dangerous, but Bryneithin ought to be repaired at once. Mr. CHARLES DAVIES said that life would bo lost before the Council would do anything.. One of the SURVEYORS said that a donkey and cart fell over whilst the driver was asleep (laugh- ter). The CHAIRMAN thought that it would be expensive to widen the road referred 'to. Mr E. J. EVANS pointed out that if this applica- tion was granted other Councils would be making similar demands. The road at Ystradteilio and one near Llangwynfron Mill was in a bad state of repair. Mr J. WILLIAMS asked who would be respons- ible in the event of an accident ? The CLERK said that if it happened at night the Council would not be responsible because carts, &c., were supposed to carry lights, and the Council were only supposed to do what was reason- able in repairing the roads. Mr J. M. WILLIAMS said that the road at Bow street was in a dangerous state. Mr J. B. MORGAN proposed that a committee be appointed to visit the roads referred to and present a report. The CLERK suggested that the Surveyors could present a report on the matter. This was agreed to. Mr RICHARDS proposed that the road near Bryneithin be widened. Mr MORGAN seconded and it was carried. A TRAMWAY. Mr JOHN DAVIES, Talybont, asked permission to lay tram lines across the highway at Cumere. On the proposition of Mr J M WILLIAMS, it was decided to give permission. TALYBONT WATER SUPPLY. Mr ROWLANDS submitted an analysis made at Swansea of the water from Talybont supplied from Pempompren spring. It was regarded as eminently satisfactory and suitable for drinking purposes. On the motion of Mr MORGAN, seconded by Mr E. J. EVANS, it was agreed that the Clerk should send a copy of the analysis to Ceulan Maestnawr Farish CouhcTTaskfng them if heystI11 desired to get the water themselves, or whether they were agreeable to the Council taking it in hand. A NUISANCE. I Mr MILLER complained of the nuisance arising from the slaughter house at Medway. It was agreed to invite the Parish Council to visit the place in conjunction with two District Councillors and the Inspector. This was all the business.

LLANBADARN FAWR WATER SUPPLY. A GOVERNMENT INSPECTOR'S ENQUIRY. On Friday, November 29th, Major-General H. D. Crozier, R.E., attended at the Magistrates Room, Llanbadarn Fawr, for the purpose of holding an enquiry into an application made by the Rural District Council to the Local Government Board, to sanction the borrowing of the sum of £400 for the purpose of a water supply for Llanbadarn Fawr. Mr Hugh Hughes clerk to the Board was present, as also were Mr Davies, assistant clerk, Mr Miller, Mr Simon, Mr Rowlands the inspector, Mr John the surveyor, Mr Rd Edwards chairman of the Parish Council of Uchandre. Mr HUGHES read the notice convening the enquiry. 0 The population of the parishes of Issayndre and Uchandre was 739 and of the village 500. The assessable value of the two townships was £2,242, and there was no debt upon the townships. The INSPECTOR: How are you going to meet the expenses of the outlay ? Mr. HUGHES presumed that the Council would make a rate to cover the expenses, and those people within 100 feet of the stand pipes would have to pay rates. The INSPECTOR said that some of the people would be paying and others would not. This was not fair. Mr HUGHES Then we shall have to go in for a more extensive scheme. The INSPECTOR: That is what the Board in- tended you to do. Mr. HUGHES said tho water rates were levied upon persons in the villages who consumed the water. The INSPECTOR: How are you going to find out who uses the. water ? Mr HUGHES Wè will bring it within the pre- scribed distance. The INSPECTOR: But you have not shown it on the plan. I want to know if you can do it and legally do it. You have houses on the plan that do not come within the distance. Mr HUGHES said that provision would have to be made to meet it. The INSPECTOR: But it is not done. Mr MILLAR said that it would be unfair to make those people building within 100 feet pay for the water and leave the others free. The INSPECTOR It is quite impossible. Mr HUGHES If any person outside that dis- tance uses the water he will have to pay. The INSPECTOR How are you going to find out ? Mr HUGHES: Of course, people will steal water. The INSPECTOR It will not do; if you are going under the Act of 1370 you must act in accor- dance with that Act. Yon must put these pipes up for the use of everybody. Mr HUGHES said that the reason why the pipes broke. off at certain parts was because there were springs near those places. The INSPECTOR The Board will not take that view. If you are going in for a water supply for the village you must get a proper supply, and in my mind no supply is perfect unless it provides for a tap in every house. [Taking up the Act]. The Act says you can levy under 200 feet. Mr DAVIES said that the rateable value of the parish of Issayndre was and of Uchandre £ 892, and the assessable value of the village to be supplied from the pipes marked out on the plan would be £800. The INSPECTOR said that in a letter of the Board's it would appear that they would not sanc- tion the scheme unless it was a comprehensive scheme and this present one was not a comprehen- sive scheme. Why was this? Mr. HUGHES The Council considered that the outlying portions of the village had a supply already. The plan was then examined, and the portions of the parish supplied by springs were marked and the dates, where possible, of the analyses, recorded by by the Inspector. It was roughly estimated that the cost per year would amount to about £30 to £40, and this amount would have to be raised off £300, which would mean about a rate of Is. Thare was a part of the village called Pallhoby, which contained about 21 houses. Here the inhabitants had a supply of their own at the back of the houses. Mr. HUGHES said they could not force these people to give up the wells unless the wells were shown to be impure. And some of the inhabitants had to pay an acknowledgement of a Is a year for the use of water. A RATEPAYER said that there was plenty of water down there, and if they went down five feet they would have plenty of water. Mr. HUGHES said that the owner of the site was Mr. Richard Roberts, and a verbal agreement was entered upon and Mr Roberts was pre- pared to sell. The price was not paid, but the laud would be given for £1 under the original scheme, but if this scheme was approved probably it would be a few shillings more. Up to seven or eight years ago a spring called Ffynnonmeredith, which lay above the site of the tank, was opened and a small reservoir built. The spring was on common land. The matter was brought before the District Council and it was thought that the supply was not sufficient. They agreed to go higher up and .discovered another spring which acted as an auxiliary to Ffynnon meredith. The land upon which the Ffynnon meredith spring lay was common land never yet tenanted; but the spring above this was on land belonging to Mr. Roberts. There was no water easements and the water of both springs had been analysed. The INSPECTOR: Oh yes; the Board do not say anything about that. They are simply dealing with the scheme. The INSPECTOR said that 2ft. cover for the pipes was not enough as it would lay it open to dangers of frost, and the Board would not sanction a depth of less than 3ft. The people of Wales were the most economical people he ever met with they would quarrel over anything (laughter). Tho reservoir must be built of cement and not of lime, It was this starving of the works, this economy in the wrong direction, that caused the breakages in the works. He noted the absence of fire plugs in the plan and thought that they ought to be pro- vided. Mr. MILLAR said that the outlying portions of the village had already been supplied with water at the cost of the whole of the village and it was un- fair that the people within the distance of 200 feet should be made to pay and leave those outside free. The INSPECTOR said that the only way to meet it was to lay stand pipes so that every house would be within 200 feet of the stand pipe. So far as he could see the Rural Council had not carried out the suggestions contained in the letter of the Board. Mr. MILLAR said that under the circumstances he would like to see each house having a pipe of its own, if they and they alone were made to pay for the water. The INSPECTOR said that the simplest way was to rnn the pipes to the end of the village. It was the wisest plan to put everybody on the same footing, not to have one lot paying and another go- ing free. The Inspector then proceeded to inspect the pro- posed sites of the works.

PETTY SESSIONS. WEDNESDAY. Before Messrs Thomas Griffiths (Mayor), Peter Jones, Thomas Hugh Jones, and C. M. Williams. A CHIMNEY ABLAZE. Hugh Howells and Morton Wynne, of Northgate Street, were summoned for allowing their chimney to go On fire, and were fined 2s 6d, which sum was paid between them. THE FESTIVE SEASON. Mr Williams, Talbot Hotel, applied for an exten- sion of time on the occasion of the Masonic banquet, Mr A. J. Hughes for the transfer of the Fox Vaults to Mr Parker, and Mr Rea for an extension of time at the White Horse on the occasion of a birthday party.—All the applications were granted. THE OBSTRUCTION CRUSADE. Mary Parry, Queen Street, was fined 5s for obstructing the street with a washing tub.—For obstructing the highway with seven boxes Alfred Noyes was fined 5s. A PUBLICAN'S WORRY. Emma Bluck, Cross Foxes, was charged with selling intoxicating liquoi to a drunken man, and also with permitting drunkenness. Mr A. J. Hughes appeared for the defence, and raised an objection to two charges in respect of one alleged offence. If a person was acquitted for an offence he could not be hio at a second time.—The Bench decided to Lear the 'two churgss.—The Chief Constable said that shortly after five o'clock on the 6th ultimo he saw Gabriel Davies drunk and disorderly in North Parade, his wife and daughter trying to get him home.—P.C. Owen deposed that about eight o'clock he heard a noise in the Cross Foxes. He entered the house and saw Gabriel Davies sitting on a chair drunk. A pint measure, half full of beer was before.him. When he pointed out his state to Mrs Bluck she remarked that she did not think Davies was so drunk. Substquently defendant said she did not serve him with beer, and that a man named James Thomas called for two pints of beer giving one pint to Davies.— P.C. Jones said he accompanied P.C. Owen to the Cross Foxes. Mrs Bluck said that Jim Thomas called for two pints of beer, one of which he gave to Gabriel Davies who appeared to be very drunk. —In defence, Mr Hughes said that Gabriel Davies was perfectly quiet in the bouse. His instructions were that Jim Thomas called for two separate pints at different times, and out of one pint he gave a sip to Davies.—Defendant said she told P.C. Owen she did not see Gabriel so drunk. Jim Thomas took the pint from the bar to the kitchen, saying, when he purchased it, that it was for himself.— James Thomas said that Gabriel Davies stood him a pint of beer in the Cross Foxes. Davies had nothing to drink himself while he was there.—Miss Bluck deposed that she did not serve Gabriel Davies with beer. A man named Dawson called for two pints, but Gabriel Davies did not have one of them to her knowledge.—Daniel Davies, in the employ of the Aberystwyth Improvement Com- pany, said that during the time he was in the house no drink was supplied to Gabriel Davies.— By the Chief Con.i ible: He did not tell P.S. Davies that he saw a pint each in front of Gabriel Davies and Thomas. He heard Dawson ask for two pints, but he believed one was for hie mother- in-law.—Mr Hughes contended there was no evi- dence of a sale to Gabriel, or that he had drunk anything from another customer's glass when drunk.—The Mayor said the decision of the Bench was that Mrs Bluck be fined 10s and costs, which was a very lenient view of the case. It had come under their notice that Mrs Bluck had two licensed premises, although it was decided that she should give up one of them.—Mr Hughes said Mrs Bluck intended giving up one, but there had been some delay in the arrangements.—The Chief Constable In fairness to Mrs Bluck I should say that she is not selling now at the house she intends giving up.

LL AN PIH AN GEL-Y-C REU DDYN. CHURCH DEFENCE LECTURE.—Rev. Richard Lewis, vicar of Llanychaiarn, delivered a lecture on "Yr Eglwys Forsnol," at the Schoolroom, Llanfihangel-y-Creuddyn, on Friday evening, Nov. 29th, when the chair was taken by Mr Joseph Jones, Abermagwr. The lecture was a verv able and an interesting one, and was listened to tten- tively.

LLANBRYNMAIR. PARISH MEETING.—At a Parish Meeting, Mr D. Howell presiding, a discussion took place as to the presence on non-voters, and ultimately it was agreed that they should remain.—A claim to vote made by Mr J. S. Evans, a parish oouncillor but not an elector, was over-ruled.—The adoption of the Free Libraries Act was next considered, and and after considerable discussion it was, on a divi- sion, decided to postpone the consideration of the subject until the parish is in batter circumstances. —The two burial grounds in the parish are full, but a proposal to acquire land for two cemeteries was adjourned.—Rev D. A. Jones presented his report upon the charities he had distributed.

LLANDYSSIL. PARISH COUNCIL.—Saturday, Nov. 30. The chief business was to hear replies from Miss Temple and the District Council. Miss Temple not only promised to make the desired improvements, but it was stated that they are almost completed; a handy wicket taking the place of a dangerous stile.—On the motion of Chairman a hearty vote of thanks was passed to Miss Temple.—The District Council promised to repair the bridges, but declined to take over Cwmbadarn road, it being a private road to three holdings. Other roads were discussed, and it was decided to ap- point a Select Committee to collect evidence, and then approach the representative of the Parish on the District Council, and ask him to get that Board to take action. With regard to finance, it was thought that the Council could manage with- out raising a further rate.

MACHYNLLETH. RUMMAGE SALE.—On Saturday a rummage sale was held at the Town Hall in aid of the Chri^ Church tower fund. The stalls were presided ove by Mrs and the Misses Trevor, Mrs and Mi Edwards, Rhiwlas, Mrs Kenyon, Mrs Trevor, Bonsai], Morben, Mrs Sadleir, Mrs Howell, 5s Wakefield, Miss Berrisford, Mrs Pugh, and Mis Cole. b CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOUR.—A meeting was held a the Graig schoolroom on Monday evening, Mr R. Morgan presiding. Mr Baldwyn M. Davies re an instructive paper on The importance of doing the best with our leisure hours." The FOLLOWING commented on the paper :—Messrs E. M. Jones, Ellis, Fred Edwards, Lloyd Jones, G. WILLIAMS, O. Evans, and the President. Mr E. M. Jones an party gave a string quartette. POLICE COURT.—At the Police Court on Satar- day, before Messrs. T. W. Bonsall and N. B. OweQr Henry Kingston was brought upon a charge of ins" a spurious bank note. Mr. W. P. Owen de- fended, and it transpired that the bill was an advertisement of a firm in England. Under the circumstances the bank authorities and proprietor of the Lion Hotel did not press the case, and the defendant was discharged on payment of all costs.

PETTY SESSIONS. WEDNESDAY.' Before Major Bonsall, Messrs J. J. Bonsall, T. W. Bonsall, N. B. Owen, Edward Davies, E. Rees. and Edward Hughes. The Chief Constable was also present. It was agreed to hold the next sessions on Janu- ary 8th instead of the 1st. ASSAULT. # 1 Thomas Davies, Dolgadfan Farm, Llanbrynmair, charged Daniel Lewis, Llwynowen, LlanbrynTnairr with assaulting him on November 4th.-CoDlplaI. ant said that he was returning home on the day In question when the defendant attacked him aDd struck him down several times.—John also gave evidence, and stated that the defendant followed him and Davies up the road and attacked Davies.—Fined 15s including costs. HIGHWAY OFFENCE. Edward Edwards, hawker, Aberystwyth, waS fined 2s. for allowing a mare to stray on the hIgh. way. WEEDING FESTIVITIES. James Coffrev was fined 10s including costs for being drunk on the 15th November.—A letter waS received from the defendant in which said that he was going to sign the pledge, and he took too muoh drink on a wedding night. KILLING FOWLS. David Roberts, Caergy'oi, Machynlleth, waS charged with killing fowls by stoning them.—The case was heard at the last Court and adjourned. The defendant was dismissed upon payment or costs. IN PURSUIT OF GAME. Thomas Rowlands, hawker, Machynlleth, was charged by Joseph Evans, Fronygog, Machynlleth, with trespassing in pursuit of game.—Adjourned. MAINTENANCE ORDER. £ Johr Jones, relieving officer, JYfachynlleth, charged Rowland Jones, Glanyrafon, Talybont, with neglecting to contribute towards the mainten- ance of his parents. — An order was made accordingly. STRAYS. j P.C. R. O. Jones charged Evan Price, Graigfach, Machynlleth, with allowing an ass to stray on the highway. The officer charged Mary Jones with < the same offence.—Price was fined 5s including" costs, and the case against Mary Jones was dis- missed. BREACH OF THE POACJING PREVENTION ACT. Hugh Jones Arthur (Maesglas, MachynIIeth), and David Roberts (Brickfield Street, Machynlleth)*- were charged byj P.S. Hamer with trespassing In pursuit of game on the 22nd November.—Defend- ants admitted the offence.—P.S. Hamer said that he met the defendants on the highway and searched Arthur upon whom he found three nets. One of the nets was damp and the peg looked as if it had been used. He found eight nets upon Roberts.—Arthur" said that he met Roberts as he was going to the station. Roberts asked him to come with him to1 Bronhaul, but they did not go and they returned tø- town without using the nets. The nets were damp" owing to having been left out on top of a cub»— The Bench dismissed the case as there was no evidence of user."

RURAL DISTRICT CO NCIL. WEDNESDAY. jflF A meeting of the Council was held ou day, Wfien Mr Edward dl by Mr Pritchard, vice-chairman. FOOTPATHS TO BE REPAIRED. 1 Darowen Parish Council wrote to say that ;v were several footpaths in the parish that needed j repair. The one referred to at the last meeting ot the Rural Council had been repaired by them. The question was deferred. CEMMES WATER SUPPLY. j Respecting the supply of water from Cwmlliue>- a sample of which had been sent to Mr Blunt,. c.ounty analyst, Shrewsbury, the latter wrote- under date of November 30th to the effect that the sample sent him was in every respect a most excel- lentone. It was free from the least tint of injurious matter and was exceedingly soft. Its. very purity made it necessarry to give a caution to conveying tho water in pipes of lead, upon Wh10b. it would exercise considerable solvent action. A copy was ordered to be sent to the Parish Council. THE INSPECTOR'S REPORT. The INSPECTOR reported that at Pennal the road was being disfigured by heaps of rubbish being placed on there by the inhabitants. It was agreed to refer it to the Parish Counoil. Huntsmen and others who ought to know bettef rode their horses across the footbridge at Glasbnll* The bridge was not intended for such traffic, an the bridgo was weak, and something should be done to prevent if: He suggested that a warning notice should bo put up. 00 This was agreed to, and a notice to state that the bridge was only for passengers and sheep.. The County Surveyor had raised the price ° stone from Nant Clochdy Quarry from Is 9d to 2s 3d. The Clerk was instructed to write to the Coaoty Surveyor about the matter.. It would cost £2 2s to repair the bridgea Pantyffynon. The bridge was not now used. The children going to school had to round a hillock which made it fully three-quarters of a mile fu,rtbet for them.—Deferred.

URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL. TUESDAY. Present: Lord Henry Vane Tempest (chairnlan, Messrs R. Gillart, E. Rees, R. Reea, E. Jones, Breese, R. Owen, J. M. Thomas, J. Pughe, G. Griffiths, J. Edwards, J. Richards, W. M. John Lewis, Mr W. D. Evans, clerk, Mr D. Morg* assistant clerk, and Dr A. O. Davies. PARK COMMON. A letter was read from Mr R. Gillart what steps had been taken respecting the app" tion of the Marchioness (D) of Londonderry enclose a piece of common land. at It was stated that the committee would me this week. VIEWING BODIES. A letter was read from Mr John Rowlands veying the views of the jury which sat at a reC. inquest testifying against the custom of vie t:> dead bodies. of The CLERK was directed to ask for a c fc the letter sent by Mr Rowlands to the Govern authorities and the reply to same. THE GAS. cb.Dg A letter was read from Messrs Morgan reSPe0(j to the lighting of the town and the price to the ratepayers, and the Clerk was instruc .oJl write and say that unless there was a **eci ^ef made the Council would proceed to consider means for lighting the town. STREET NAMES. cQtrl. A letter was road from Mrs Vaughau Owen^era plaining of the wrong naming of the streets- thing, were other complaints respecting the san^e (jotH' and the matter was referred to the Stree mittee for them to report. A VACANCY. worf £ Mr John Jones was asked to continue^ e of inspector and surveyor, which owing vftCant death of Mi David Hughes had become (jverti80 office for the present. It was decided to a for an inspector of nuisances and a surv y salary of £30 per annum in the OountY11 be other local papers. The appointment w at the next meeting of the Council- THE WATER SUPPLY- water The question of supplying the town a.ted 89 1 was considered, and the matter was d private. -ii be hl A special meeting of the Council be next Tuesday, when the question wi S cussed in committee.. nnrtanO0« There was no other business of imp