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CAERSWS BOARD OF GUARDIANS.
CAERSWS BOARD OF GUARDIANS. WEDNESDAY. Present Mr R. Bennett (presiding). Miss A. M. Lloyd, the Rev T. H. Hughes, Messrs R. Price, W. Alderson, E. Lewis, R. Evans, J. Evans, T. Mills, E. P. Davies, T. E. Kinsey, W. Francis, J. Lewis (Carno), M. Davies, J. Lewia (Bettws), 11. Breeze, N. Bennett, E. Powell, D. Higgs, D. Lloyd, D. Jones, E. Jones, with the Clerk (Mr R. Williams). AN ACKNOWLEDGMENT. The Clerk read a letter from Mr Herbert Davies, thanking the Guardians for their vote of sympathy on the death of Mrs Devereux-Pryce. STATISTICS. It was reported that the amounts of out-relief distributed throughout the Union during the fort- night were as follows-Newtown district, £63 5s 6d to 234 recipients Llanidloes district, £78 4s Od to 324 recipients; Llanwnog district, £39 5s Od. Number of persons in the House 87. Vagrants relieved during the fortnight 64, against 48 during the corresponding period of last year. THE NURSE QUESTION. The Clerk said he bad written to Dr Roberts (Caersws) stating that the three months' probation for which Miss L. Morris's (the nurse) appointment was sanctioned having now expired, he wished him to report as to the manner in which she had dis- charged her duties, and his opinion as to Iier efficiency and capabilities.—Dr Roberts reported that with regard to the first point he had no com- plaint to make she had performed her duties to the verv best of her ability, and she seemed both willing and anxious to do her best. With regard to the second matter his opinion as to her efficiency and capabilities, was that he had to repeat what he reported three months ago that a nurse who had either training or previous experience was ab- solutely necessary to cope with sudden emergencies which might require immediate action before medical help could arrive, also to afford experienced aid in confinement cases. With the aid of a trained or experienced nurse Miss Morris would be very capable and efficient, and he would strongly recom- mend that her services as well as those of an ex- perienced nurse be secured.—The Clerk observed that the Local Government Board wished a report on the efficiency of the nnrse. They bad objected to her appointment in the first instance because she had not been trained, but they had consented to the three months' probation, subject to a report being presented.—Mr J. Lewis (Bettws) objected to a trained nurse, they had had a great deal of experience in nurses and had found that those who were not trained were the best officials.The Chairman You may depend upon it, we shall have Mr Bircham down upon us.—A member under- stood that the nnrse was taking lessons at the Infirmary, that should be reported to the Local Governmeut Board.—The Chairman: That will not meet it.—The Clerk said the lessons only applied to accidents. It was only experience in confinement cases as well that the Local Govern- ment Board would sanction an appointment.—Mr J Lewis then spoke of efficiency with economy," which, he alleged, he had always advocated.—The Rev T H Hughes said nothing could be stronger than Dr Roberts' letter, and they really had no moral right to refuse its consideration. He had always advocated economy, but the Board, or at least certain members of the Board, were in the habit of looking at the penurious side of every question, and they must bear in mind that they were not only Guardians of the ratepayers' money but of the poor (hear, hear). He had no doubt that the appointment of such nurses was only a question of time, and unless he was much mistaken the Local Government Board would perform the duty which they (the Board) had neglected. It was expense that must be incurred, and, as the doctor was the most competent man to judge, he held that it was their most solemn duty to abide by the doctor's suggestion.—After further discus- sion, Mr John Lewis moved that, having made en- quiries with regard to the efficiency of the nurse in this House during the last three months, we think that the work has been done most efficiently to the entire satisfaction of the Board, and that during the last three months more cases have occurred than in any known period, and have been attended to without a complaint.—Mr E. Lewis seconded.—The Rev. T. H. Hughes said he had just had a chat with the Matron, and he had reason to modify his recent attitude. The Matron had told him tha she her- self was a trained nurse and had considerable ex- perience. He bad asked whether there was any need that a nurse should be trained and whether the doctor wap fully justified in his remarks, and she bad replied, No, there was no need for one (hear, hear). There were many inconveniences arising from the appointment of a trained nurse, who would probably confine herself to" her duties, which might be very light indeed for years. That had considerable weight with him, and be would support Mr Lewis.—Miss Lloyd: I do not think the Matron is trained, but she has had ex- perience.—The proposition was then carried. THE INDUSTRIAL TRAINER QUESTION. MORE ECONOMY. The consideration of Miss Lloyd's motion to appoint a suitable person to take charge of the children in the Workhouse and to undertake the plain sewing, which was adjourned from the last meeting, was resumed.—Miss Lloyd, in supporting her motion, recapitulated the facts which appeared In the County Times on the 5th February. She added that it was most necessary for the morals of the children who would be the men and women of the future that they should be trained in a right and proper way (hear, hear).—In answer to questions by Mr J. Lewis (Bettws), Miss Lloyd said there were 25 children in the House, of whom eight were babies. Out of the remaining 17, 14 attended school. — Mr D. Jones (Dolfor) said he quite agreed with Miss Llovd. The next moment he said he was Sorry to go against her.— Mr R. Evans was sorry to oppose Miss Lloyd but thought it would be consis- tent to maintain economy with efficiency. To be consistent they should keep their eye on the expense, but he was sorry to say that there were certain members—he would not say who—who did not keep their eye upon the expense they ignored that question altogether. But the Guardians should remember they were representing the ratepayers as well as the poor, and be certainly for one would not exercise economy at the expense of efficiency, but when they could keep up efficiency with economy they should go in for it. He could not see the necessity of creating another official there, the work was now done to the satisfaction of everyone. Mr John Lewis (Bettws) delivered a long speech on the subject, at the outset of which he taid it was not wise to waste so much time over the matter. Everyone gave Miss Lloyd credit for purity of motive, and he had no hesitation in saying that her motives were really good ones. But had she looked on the question from more than one standpoint ? He was afraid not. Were the morals of the children going to be the means of heaping up officer after officer? They thought not. They considered that now they had a most suitable person in the nurse, and they could not do better than leave them under her care. It was argued that the nurse's time was fully employed, but they had persons in that House whose time was not fully employed, and these could go to her assistance when necessary. Why was it necessary to create a new officer ? He had seen the children in the House, and he would say before the Board and the reporters—(here Mr Lewis looked full at the latter and dropped into a very solemn tone)—that they had delighted him very much, they were well clothed, well fed, and well cared for, and his wish-ayhis humble wish- was that all the children of the district were as well looked after as the children of that House. He went about the Union a great deal and he saw little children barefooted, bareheaded and half starved, and did they (the Board) not think that it was a pity to rob those little children and heap it upon the well cared children of the House. Let them all have economy with efficiency. They Were at that time going out of office and what would their successors say if they were to leave them such a legacy as that. The new Board Would have to make the superannuation. There was one thing he would like to mention and that Was to say that they already had an industrial trainer in the House. He felt bound to go against Miss Lloyd's motion.—Miss Lloyd said she did not ask for a permanent appointment, only that an official should be appointed temporarily to see how she would act.—The Chairman (to Mr Lewis) Who do you say we have as an industrial trainer P- Mr Lewis: The porter.—Mr Kinsey asked what Mr Bircham had said in regard to the appointment. ■ The Clerk replied that Mr Bircham was in favour of an industrial trainer.—Mr Lewis then engaged the attention of the Guardians for some time upon the action of the Local Government Board in regard to the payment of the industrial trainer. He graphically described how the Local Government Board would order the County Council to pay half the salary, and the latter would come down upon the overseers who would make a precept, and the Collectors would then take the money from them, the farmers and ratepayers. He ridiculed the idea that the Local Government Board Would pay it, it would come oat of the rates.—Mr Francis said Miss Lloyd should have carried her motion at the last meeting. The leader of the opposition (Mr Lewis) was up, and the Board would follow him like sheep (laughter). Mr Lewis: I must ask Mr Francis to withdraw that.—Mr Francis consented to do so.—The Rev. T. H. Hughes The remark made by Mr Francis is per- fectly true. I fully agree with Miss Lloyi in her proposition to create another post here, but at the same time I am of opiuion that the mere mention of such a suggestion is like a red rag to a bull (laughter). In agreeing with Miss Lloyd I feel a doubt as to whether there is a real urgency for such an official. It is a very serious and a very important proposal, a proposal which all of them should feel it incumbent upon themselves to regard, not only from a high moral point of view, but from a ratepayer's point of view (hear, hear). The proposal, if he understood it rightly, was that a person should be appointed to take charge of the children out of their school hours. Now, when they return from school they are allowed to roam about at their own sweet will and to mix with old men and women, from whom they will learn no good, and see what they ought not to see. He believed in most Unions—Cardiff, for example—the children were cared for in this way. The boys, after school hours, betake themselves to various departments, where they are instructed in carpen- tering, shoemaking, and other common arts of life. The girls are trained in the way suggested by Miss Lloyd. If they had a very large number of children always in the House, unquestionably they should have to engage a person to take charge of them, and he felt they should be doing a very generous thing by adopting Miss Lloyd's suggestion, and it might in the long run turn out to be a saving to the ratepayers' pockets (hear, hear). From an economical, from a religious, and from a moral point of view the better they are trained the more likely will they become useful members of society. If left to roam about, when they start life for themselves they will know nothing, and, conse- quently they are thrown upon the world without being fully, equipped for its dangers and temptations, and the result is that they would come back with their characters ruined. Although they were upon the eve of another election he did not at all wind supporting such a worthy proposition as this, and the ratepayers, he was sure, would support him. He would rather not sit upon a Board that would not do its duty to the children and the poor, and he ventured to say that they were not doing their duty if they did not put these children upon a sure foundation to fight the battle of life.—Mr J. Lewis (Bettws) gotap to make another speech when the Rev T. H. Hughes rose to a point of order. Mr Lewis had already spoken twice, and he had often wished to call attention to the fact that a great deal of time was wasted at that meeting in not adhering to the rules of debate. It would conduce to expediency in the trasaction of the business by not allowing certain persons to speak more than once. — Mr Lewis: I have the right to reply I-The Chairman: Order, Mr Lewis.—Mr Lewis I wiQh to say that all Mr Hughes has said is conjecture and The Chair- man Order, order.—The Rev T. H. Hughes then seconded Miss Lloyd's proposition, and the Chair- man supported.—Messrs E. P. Davies, T. E. Kinsey, N. Bennett, and E. Powell having spoken, Mr E. Jones supported the motion and urged upon the members a sense of their duty as Guardians of the poor.—Messrs E. P. Davies and R. Evans again spoke, which elicited a remark from the Rev T. H. Hughes Oh, these explanations !"—The motion was then put and lost, 8 voting in its favour and 14 against.—Mr W. Francis: Didn't I tell you what the result would be ?—Mr D. Lloyd objected to Mr Francis casting aspersions upon them they had a right to their vote. He asked Mr Francis to with- draw.—Mr Francis: Oh, I will withdraw again (laughter). MISCELLANEOUS. The Clerk read an order from the Local Govern- ment Board authorising the payment of expenses of paupers visiting their relations if the Guardians thought fit.
CAERSWS RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL.
CAERSWS RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL. Mr J. Lewis (Bettws) presided over a meeting of this Council on Wednesday.—The Clerk read a letter from the Knighton Rural District Council intimating that they would not comply with the Caersws Council's request to assist in making the Ciderhouse road a main road, because they were convinced that the Radnor County Council would not accede to the proposal. A letter was received from the Postmaster General stating that be was desirous of obtaining the consent of the Council to the erection and maintenance by the Department of a line of telegraph along the Bodaiach public road from the Red House level crossing to the junction with the county road near Trefeglwys. He undertook to make good any damage which might be done in the execution or maintenance of the work.—The Council gave their consent.— A memorial was received signed by thred inhabit- ants in Llanidloes parish asking the Council co take over a short length ot road known as Llety-coch-y- nant opposite Llanidloes station and leading to the Gorn, Cefngwily and Ingram farms, and stating they were prepared to contribute substantially to the same.—After some discussion a committee was appointed to inspect the road and report to the next meeting.—An application from Mr John Hamer, Llandinam, that the Council put a gate on the road near his house was refused.—The Com- mittee appointed to report upon the advisability of erecting a footbridge over the Glanhafren Ford be- tween Llauidloes and Llangurig stated that as the footbridge required renewing at considerable ex- pense, and the ford was deep when the river rose, they advised the Council to erect a carriage bridge under the following conditions—namely, that the parties interested contribute one-third of the cost and do the hauling.—The Surveyor said the entire cost of erecting such a bridge would be £154.-Mr R. Evans urged upon the Council to proceed with the work at once.—Mr T. E. Kinsey asked how the Council stood financially.—The Chairman said the bridge could not be built on the present rate.—On the motion of the Rev T. H. Hugbes, seconded by Mr E. Lewis, the report was adopted. »
CAERSWtf.
CAERSWtf. PETTY SESIONS.—MONDAY, Before Capt. W. H. Adams, Messrs A. W. Davies, E. Kinsey, R. Jones, and E. Jones. CARRYING A GUN WITHOUT A LICENCE.— Watkin Jones, Bronfelin, Carno, was charged by Patrick Joseph Walsh, Inland Revenue Officer, with carrying a gun without a licence.—Evidence was given by Thomas Gittins, Carno, who said he saw defendant carrying a gun on the Garthbwt Farm. —Fined £1, and costs 9s 6d. OBSCENE LANGUAGE.—John Horton, Bwlchy. fridd, was charged by P. C. Davies with using obscene language at Caersws, on January 22.— Fined 5s, and costs 7s.
DINAS MAWDDWY.
DINAS MAWDDWY. FANCY FAIR.—A .most successful fancy fair was held in the Minllyn Board School, the proceeds be- ing devoted towards the Mallwyd Church Organ Fund. Some time ago Miss Thomas, the Rectory, conceived the idea of a new organ to replace the old one in the above church. Mrs Captain St. George, CwmllecoediogHall, took it up heartily, and since then both have worked hard and successfully, and in different ways swelled the fund to such an extent that with the proceeds of the fancy fair the object has been attained. Mrs St. George and Miss Thomas's exertions and interest in the proposed new organ were unlimited, and they may now be congratulated upon their success- ful efforts. The organ is near completion and the opening services will be held very soon. The following were the stall-holders:—Mrs Captain St. George, Cwmllecoediog Hall; Mrs Thomas, Rectory; Miss Thomas and Miss Annie Thomas, Misses Bullock, The Cottage; Mr and Mrs Lloyd, Dinas Board School; Misses Edmunds, Llany. mawddwy; Mrs Evans, Dinas; Miss Mary Jones, Mallwyd and Miss Evans, Dugoed Mawr; Mr J 0 Reese and Miss Owen, Aberangell Board School; Messrs Charlie Thomas, Rectory, and Fred Jones, Mallwyd; Misses Sarah Owen and Maggie Breese, Aberangell; Mr Evan Breese, Red Lion, &c. Mrs Steadman, Peniarth Arms, ably superintended the refreshment stall, and was assisted by Mrs Davies and Mrs Morgans, Mallwyd; Miss Roberts, Cowarch, &c. Miss Edmunds, Llanymawddwy, contributed several pieces on the piano. The schoolroom was crowded, and the stall-holders ex- perienced busy times. Much curiosity and amuse- ment was displayed in the washing and hat-trim- ming competitions. We' are glad to find that a very substantial sum was realised, and the com- mittee and all who laboured on behalf of the good cause are to be complimented on the success- ful termination of their indefatigable labours. It is greatly to be regretted in the neighbourhood that Mrs St. George is leaving, for she has taken such ardent interest in every good work during her stay at Cwmllecoediog.
ARDDLEEN.
ARDDLEEN. A NEW ORGAN FOR ARDDLEEN SCHOOL CHURCH. new and beautiful-toned chancel organ has lately been purchased for Arddleen School Church. It was dedicated on Sunday week by the Venerable Archdeacon Thomas, who afterwards preached an oppropriate sermon to a large congregation. The following is a description of the organ: Eight stops, including one full set of 8ft. reeds, and one octave 16ft. reeds, vox humarfa and octave couplers, panel back, two knee levers, and handsome oak and walnut case. The rollers are placed at the back of the case, and are easy of access.
LLANIDLOES.
LLANIDLOES. CHURCH LITERARY SOCIETY. — At the weekly meeting of the St. Idloes Church Literary Society held at the National Schools on Monday evening, three interesting essays were read by Mr F. W. Davies on "Nelson," Mr E. D. Davies on "Hunting," and Mr Arthur Jones on "Newspapers." The Rev E. O. Jones, M.A., presided. LITERARY AND DEBATING SOCIETY.—A Shakes- per on night was held on Friday evening. Inter- esting papers were read by Messrs J. Lester Mills, E. R. H. Turner, and G. H. West, on "Shakespeare's Works, His Times, and His Home." A short dis- cussion followed. The Rev M Griffiths, M. A.; presided. WOMEN'S TJMPERANCE ASSOCIATION. A tem- perance entertainment under the auspices of the North Wales Temperance Association was given at the Public Rooms on Saturday evening. There was a good attendance, and a pleasant eveuing was spent. An excellent programme was rendered. CAERAU CHAPEL.— A miscellaneous entertain- ment was held at the above place on Monday evening, presided over by Mr C. Savage, Glan- feinion, when the following pr gramme was gone through :—Address by the Chairman anthem, Behold how good and joyful," the Choir; recita- tion, "Two little dicky birds," Miss M J Griffiths; duet, The old cottage clock," Miss D J and Master A E Williams; re t i II, The cow," Master Jesse Williams; song, "A sul. lÍe: and a man," Mr J Bebb recitation, Things that never die," Miss A B Jones; glee, "Three bumble bees" (encored), Glee Party; song, "On the banks of Allan water," Miss D J Williams; recitation, Little Jim." Miss Eunice Williams; song and chorus, Kiss me mother," Mr T Jones and party song, A motto for every man" (encored), Mr E E Jones; recita- tion, The Quaker and the robber," Miss H Jones glee, The huntsman's chorus," the Choir; recita- tion, The last hymn," Miss S Richards; song, "Little sister's gone to sleep," Miss D J William? song, "Arm, arm, ye brave" (encorei), Mr R Jones; recitation, Adam and Mary," Mr J Richards; duet, "All's well," Messrs Jones and Williams; part song, Let the hills resound," the Choir. The choir was conducted by Mr E E Jones, and accompanied by Miss Jerman, Caerau. The singing of the Doxology brought a very successful evening to a close. REPORT OF THE MEDICAL OFFICER.—The follow- ing is the report of the Medical Officer of Health (Dr J. Yaughan Owen) presented at the last meeting of the Counch for the quarter ending December :— During the quarter there had been 18 births and 18 deaths; 3 deaths were in children under five years of age, and resulted from measles, and 6 were certified as over 60 years of age. The principal feature of general importance in the public health was an epidemic of measles in the months of Octo- ber and November, which necessitated his closing the Board and National Schools for a period of seven weeks. He had found it necessary to condemn one building in Severn Port as unfit for hnman habita- tion. There were two other buildings in that court used as dwelling places the cubic space of the apartments of whicfh prohibited the entertainment for a moment of the possibility of the air in them being healthy, and they were totally unfit for human habitation. The majority of the houses in Severn Port had been built regardless of the laws of public health. Several of them ought to be boarded up, or, more properly for the health and beauty of the borough, be pulled down and totally erased. The borough improvements in Severn Port, constituting as they did the bulwarks on the Severn side, the levelling of the adjacent ground, and the planting t of decorative trees, only threw out more glaringly the inharmonious background. In every other respect the health of the borough was excellent.— The report was adopted, on the proposition of Councillor Hercomb, seconded by Alderman Bowen and steps were directed to be taken to remove the condemned houses. THE GLANYRAFON HARRIERS. Four very enjoyable and exhilarating days hunt- ing were had with Mr Bennett's harriers this week. On Monday the meet was on Mr Hugh Lewis's Glynbrochan Estate. The first hare unfortunately was pounced upon by the dogs before it could get away. Shortly afterwards another was started, and away it went at a spanking pace .towards Gellifawr with the dogs in full cry. Doubling back pussy went in the direction of The Farm, and skirting the top ran towards Pantmeiniog, and in. the direction of Marshes Pool. Eventually after a fast run of an hour and a half the field ran into their quarry in the open below Gellifawr. Two other hares were found, but were lost after a good deal of ground had been covered. On Tuesday, owing to the inclement weather a start was not made until midday. Only one hare was found on Cwmere Farm which, after a good run, was lost on the top of Penybank Hill. On Wednesday the meet was on Mr Williams' Tylwch Estate. It was some time, however, before a hare was started on a ploughed field belonging to Penybank Farm. After a little skirmishing it crossed the line and faced the famous Tylwch rocks. Bolting over the top pussy went in the direction of Cwmfron. Turning back she followed the river for a short distance, but being hard pressed, again took to the rocks. At a rattling pace the hunt proceeded in full view of the field. Pussy although tiring perceptibly, stuck gamely on, and, as a last resource, took refuge in a burrow, from where it was easily unearthed. Rarely, indeed, has any sportsman seen such a run. The quality of the dogs was tested in every way, but they were equal to the task, and worked in fine style. The run lasted an hour and twenty minntes. Other hares were started, but the wind, which had by this time risen, interfeied considerably with the sport, and they were lost. There wad a large number of followers, riding and on foot, among whom were Dr J Vaughan-Owen, Messrs L P Marshall, E D Davies, J M Kerr, J Harry Jones, Lewis Evans, G Hollingham, R D Edwards, Tom Phillips, F Mar- pole, and Mr Richard Owen, huntsman, who handled the hounds in a most skilful manner.—On Thursday the meet was on Bwlchygarreg Farm, the property of Mr Humphreys-Owen. An excel- lent day's sport was obtained, and as a result two hares were killed, the last of which was saved by Mr J Kerr. Mr J R Pryse, Pantdrain, was present at the hunt. ———
LLANGURIG.
LLANGURIG. TEA AND ENTERTAINMENT. — Through the generosity of Mr John Hughes, Upper Doliefe, the scholars attending the C. M. Chapel at Dernol, were entertained to tea on Thursday week at the chapel. This is the second annual tea and entertainment which has been held here, and this year it was verj successfully carried out on a larger scale. The day was all that could be desired, and a large number of people assembled. Mrs Hughes, Neuddu, and Miss Polly Bywater presided at the tables, and they were assisted by the Misses R. Lewis, M. Richards, K. Pugh, L. Bywater, and K. Price. These ladies were busily engaged from 3 to 6 p.m., and during that time the Pantydwr party, conducted by Mr C. Jones, rendered several pieces of music in excellent style, and much credit is due to Mr Jones for the pains he had taken in training bis party. The entertainment, presided over by the Rev R H. Jones, commenced at 6-30 p.m., and consisted of songs, glees, recitations, dialogues, and competitions. Mr J. H. Rowbotham was adjudicator, and Mr L. Jones, Temple Bar, accompanied on the harmonium. The following was the programme :—Address by the Chairman; recitation, Five minutes too late," Miss Hughes song, Little Nell," Miss C Hughes; song, A is the first letter," J M Price; recitation, Lazy Tim," W Hughes; glee, "No night there," Pantydwr party; dialogue, "Elijah and the poor widow," J and M Hughes; recitation, Serving Jesus," E Hughes; recitation, "Little ones like me," M Francis; recitation, The talking clock," E Price glee, Shall we gather at the river," Dernol party; dialogue, From India," Messrs Hughes; quartett, "Sweet Sabbath Bells," E Jones and party; recitation, To your places," Ruth Evans; recita- tion, "Perseverance," E Francis; recitation, "My Jesus," M Price; song, Pa Ie r'aeth yr amen," W Price; recitation, God's voice," E Francis song, Please give me a penny, sir," Miss C Hughes recitation, Charlie's letter," M A Hughes; glee, Future lies before me," Pantydwr party dialogue, Hopelessness," Messrs Mand J Hughes; song, Oh dear, what can the matter be," Miss Hughes; recitation, Beautiful Snow," M Hughes; recitation, Little Jim," E Pugh; duett, Open the beautiful Gates," Misses Jones; recitation, The Old Story," J Hughes; competition for scholats, "Namin of Towns," 6 competed, 1 T Jones, 2 T James and A Hughes (equal); song, Miss C Hughes; dialogue, The King and the Miller of Mansfield," Messrs Hughes; song, Throw out the Life-line," Miss Jones; recitation, The Twins," T Jones; recitation, Belchazzar," Miss Hughes competition, Unpunctuated paragraph," 13 competed, 1 J H Jones, 2, J Jones; song, Y Bwtbyn ar y Bryn," W Price; competition, Naming of Towns," 1 D W Pugh, 2 R Davies; glee, Washed in the Blood of the Lamb," Dernol party; competition, Impromptu Speech, 7 com- peted, subject Lead Pencil," 1 E Jones, 2 C Rice; quartette, Profundo basso," A E Price and party. At the close the Rev R H Jones proposed a vote of thanks to Mr Hughes for his kindness to the tea- makers, and to all who had taken part in the evening's programme. Mr J R Pryse, junior, seconded, and the proposition was carried amid applause. Mr Pryse proposed a vote of thanks to the Chairman, and the adjudicator, Mr Pugh, seconded, aud it was carried unanimously. Rev R H Jones briefly returned thanks.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT. To the Editor of the COUNTY TIMES. Sllt,-Will you allow me space in your columns to return thanks for the many kind enquiries and much sympathy I have received from all quarters during my late severe illness. It is with great regret that I find it impossible to do so personally, and I hope all who have been good enough to show their interest in me will kindly accept this, expres- sion of my gratitude.- Believe me, yours truly, The Rock, Newtown, EMILY MARK TAYLOR. February 11th, 1898.
WELSHPOOL. 1
WELSHPOOL. TOWN COUNCIL.—THURSDAY. Present: The Mayor (Colonel Twyford), Coun- cillor W. Forrester Addie (ex-mayor), Aldermen G. D. Harrison, T. R. Morris, and W. A. Rogers, Councillors C. T. Pugh, J. Pryce Jones, C. Shnker, A Watkin, T. Simpson Jones, with Mr E. Jones (clerk), Dr Marston (medical officer"), Mr Snook (surveyor), and Mr Basnett (collector). SANITARY COMMITTEE. At a meeting of this committee on 2nd February the report of Mr Beloe, C.E., on the water supply was read.— A summary of the report (will bo found below).—On the motion of the Mayor, seconded by Mr W. A. Rogers, it was agreed to accept the offer of the Palatine Engineering Company to supply the water meter.—It was agreed that the Clerk communicate with Messrs Lewis & Chaloner as to the hatches for scraping the water mains, and that the Clerk ask Lord Powis if he would allow the part of the report of Mr Beloe relating to Cwm farm and spring. The committee recom- mended that the agreement between the Cambrian Railways Company and the Corporation be ter- minated at the earliest opportunity.—Mr Snook, surveyor, stated in reply to the Mayor that the meter was fixed and next day they would have a record of the quantity of water passing through the main. Mr Ward had taken charge of the working of the meter. ■ MARKETS LANDS AND BUILDINGS COMMITTEE.—THE LETTING OF THE TOWN HALL. At a meeting of this committee held on 10th February, the plans for new stables at the Lion Inn and for additional school accommodation at New street Chapel were laid before the committee and recommended for adoption. The committee re- commended that the tenants of lands be relieved of tithe conditionally on entering into agreements as now in the case of Dr Thomas and Mr Richard Jones. —Mr J. P. Jones moved the adoption of the report, and Mr Addie in seconding the motion, said he would like to say with.regard to the charges for the Town Hall that they should be seen to, and adhered to. They had sanctioned a reduction in one or two cases recently. He did not think that anything could give more dissatisfaction than the present system. Let the charges be carefully con- sidered and settled, and then let them be adhered to. This suggested another matter, the question of letting the Town Hall. They had every confidence in Mr Basnett who looked after the hall. He did not know whether he bad absolute power to let the hall. If he bad the speaker thought it would be wise for him to consult the Chairman of the Markets Committee. He could not imagine any- thing more degrading or lowering to the morals of the town than to llfeve admitted the ex-hangman to lecture in the Town Hall. He wished to express his thanks to the Mayor in which he was sure they all joined for the action he had taken.— The Mayor explained that there had been no actual reduction in the charge except where the hall had been retained for more than oue day. They paid the regular price for the first day. The reductions had always been made by the Town Council. In regard to the other matter which Mr Addie had referred to. be was glad that he approved of what he had done. But they were not so much indebted to him as to the action of Mr Charles Howell (applause).—Mr J. P. Jones thought they ought to support their official, Mr Basnett. He did not think he was to blame in any way. It was during Mr Rogers's mayoralty that the present system was established as it was thought that the Mayor should not be troubled by people wanting the town hall, and those who wanted the hall were directod to see Mr Basnett. If the Mayor for the time being put his veto on people who came to the town—there might be some who did not approve of theatrical companies and so on—they might as well keep the hall to look at. They were not justified in refusing the hall after it was let.—Mr W. A. Rogers said the tariff of the town hall was fully considered and he objected to that tariff being interfered with. The rates and everything else were based upon it, and if one was to go to the Mayor and ask for a reduction 1 e would be pestered every day of his life. Much better stick to the very low tariff that had been put on the hall.—The Mayor said the tariff had been reduced by the Council; he had never reduced it. — Mr Rogers said he preferred that the tariff be adhered to.—Mr Rowley Morris moved that they adhere to the original tariff.—The Mayor: It cannot be altered unless the Council chooses to alter it.— Mr Rowley Morris: I should stick to the tariff. Let it be like the laws of the Medes and the Persians. HIGHWAYS COMMITTEE. At a meeting of this committee the surveyor's attention was called to the state of the footpaths in the borough and to get them cleansed.—Adopted. FINANCK COMMITTEE. Bills were ordered to be paid amounting to £14 18s 5d on the Borough Fund account, and £58 9s lid on the Urban Sanitary account.—The Collector reported that the rates outstanding at last finance meeting amounted to £369 18s-0^d, and amount of water rate £414 10s 2d; together £784 8s 2Jd; collected since, £114 2s Od; now outstanding— general district, £240 78 8Jd inner, JE66 18s lOd; watter, £362 19s 7d total, JE670 6s lfd. The Col- lector also reported that he had paid into the Bank £19 17s 4d, Town Hall lettings. The following is the monthly summary of Bank transactions:— Borough Fund account: Jan. 14, credit balance, £459 10s lid; receipts, £112 9s Id; payments, £180 2s 7d Feb. 11, credit balance, £391 17s 5d. Urban Sanitary account: Jan. 14, credit balance, £22 7s 5d receipts, £126 8s 4d payments, £904s 9d Feb..ll, credit balance, £58s lis. THE LLANFAIR LIGHT RAILWAY EXPENSES. At the same committee meeting a certificate having been received from the Light Railway Com- mission dated 29tb January, 1398, allowing the pre- liminary expenses incurred by the Corporation in regard to application for order for light railway from Welshpool to Llanfair amounting to J6453 14s. The same is referred back to counsel for directions and having referred to the resolution of 18th November last recommend that that resolution be adhered to.—(This re eolation referred the matter to the Council).—Mr Rowley Morris moved the adop. tion of the report.—Mr Addie seconded on condition that the last paragraph referring to the Llanfair Light Railway was explained—Mr Rogers said his recollection was that the Council agreed to pay this money, but it was necessary to obtain the sanction of the Light Railway Commissioners. That sanction had been given and all the Council had to do was to write out a cheque for the balance of the money, and he moved that that be done.—Mr Row- ley Morris said some of the members wanted to see particulars of the amounts.—Mr Addie said that every particular had been before them. He did not know who those members were who had not seen them but if they had not it was their own fault.— Mr T. Simpson Jones: I was present but I did not see tbem.—Mr J. P. Jones did not remember their being before the Finance Committee.—Mr. Rogers said they had passed a resolution to pay the money and before they could do anything else they would have to rescind that resolution. The Llanfyllin people had spent more money than they had done and the Rea Valley people had got nothing passed and yet their expenses were greater. Mr Pugh said the bills did not need to come before the Finance Committee—the Council passed them. He was present when they were passed. He seconded Mr Rogers's motion.—The Mayor said all the bills had been laid before the Light Railway Commis- sioners. The Commissioners were first asked to sanction a lump sum passed by the Council, and they asked for a detailed statement. That was sent up, and after it had been examined they had sanc- tioned it. He did not think the sum was exorbi- tant. He knew one case where the estimated expense was J650, but the District Council had to pay £ 253.—Mr R Morris said Mr Addie's explana- tion was quite satisfactory. He was under the impression that they had not been seen.—Mr Addie again repeated that the accounts bad been twice before the Council, the business had been on the agenda, and they had been twice passed.—The Mayor then put the motion that the sum of £453 14s., sanctioned by the Light Railway Commis- sioners, be paid, and it was carried without a dissentient. THE MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT. The report of Dr. Marston, the Medical Officer, was then read by the Town Clerk as follows:—I beg to present my Annual Report with respect to the health and sanitary condition of the Borough of Welshpool during the year 1897. Eighty-eight deaths have been registered, and 158 births recorded in the past twelve months, thus making the natural increase of the population seventy, as against fifty- seven in 1896, and twenty-two in 1895. Of the 158 infants born, 87 were male, ana 71 female, the birth-rate being 24'3 per thousand of the whole population, as against 22'9 for the previous year. Thirteen infants died before reaching the age of twelve months. This is & death-rate of 82'27 per thousand born, as against 134'2 in 1896, and 200 in 1895. These figures show a marked decrease in infantile mortality during the past two years, doubtless due to the absence of any serious epidemic disease, and also to the mildness of the weather during the past two winters. The eighty-eight deaths which have been recorded during the year now under review, give a death-rate of 13*53 per thousand of the whole population, as against one of 1415 for 1896 aud 20*4 for 1895. This death-rate is the lowest recorded for the Borough of Welshpool during the last seven years, and will compare most favourably with any town in England and Wales. It may partly be accounted for by the exceptional mildness of the weather we have experienced during the winter months, and by the absence of any grave epidemic disease. It is satisfactory to note the increased population, the marked decrease in infantile mortality, and the very low death-rate during the past two years. Thirty-five persons of the 88 who died within the last twelve monohs lived to be 65 and upwards, 26 reach their 70th year, aud nine survived the ad. vanced age of 80. There people met their death from violence, two were drowned, aud one killed on the road by a passing waggon. Zymotic Disease:— There have been very few cases of illness under this heading during the part twelve months, the Borough has been singularly free from any serious epidemic disease, and no death is recorded as bping- due to any form of epidemic complaint.—Scarlatina: —Several cases of scarlatina in children have occurred in diffierent parts of the Borough from time to time, the disease has been of a mild type, and no death has occured. The nsual precautions were taken in all cases, and the complaint did not spread. This desease will crop up occasionally where children are crowded together, as in school, and doubtless spreads from one child to another, when the complaint is so slight as not to be recognized, and it is in this way that school agency so frequently disseminates disease.—Typhoid Fever: Two cases of this disease have occured during the year now under review, and in both instances recovery took place. One case, that of a boy of sixteen, was brought under my notice in June, in a somewhat crowded house in the town of Pool. The boy returned home ill, from a dis- tant city where he had been working, and where, doubtless, he had contracted the disease, symptoms of which developed in a few days after his arrival. Strict instructions were given as to isolation of the case as far as possible, and the youBger children were sent away into the country. Due precautions were taken, and there was no further spread of the disease. This was beyond doubt an imported case. The other patient was that of a young girl in Guilsfield village, who was taken ill in October, and who also made a gooc1 recovery. The case was isolated as much as possible, and every precaution was taken to prevent any further outbreak. It is often very difficult to trace the source of infection in a case like this, but after careful investigation, and excluding the usual sources of infection, I am inclined to think :hat the disease may have been contracted in using cooking and ordinary utensils, which had been washed in water taken from the brook running through the village, which is pJI. luted in various ways, and exposed to serious con- tamination in its course. I am of opinion that the water from this brook should not be used for such purposes, especially during the summer months, when there is little or no stream running, and when it is little better than an open sewer. It is worthy of note that typhoid fever is a rare disease iu this borough, of late years, a sure indication of the improvement that sanitary conditions have undergone.—Inlfuenza :—This insidious disease again appeared about the last week in January, assuming more or less of an epidemic form, and gradually disappearing towards the end of March. During the dry summer months the borough was free from this complaint, and it was only when the wet weather commenced at the end of November, after the prolonged drought, that this disease again made its appearance in this district, and at the end of December had assumed an epidemic form, but up to the end of the year no death from this illness was registered.— Water Supply :—During the past year we have experienced exceptionally dry weather, in the summer time very little rain fell, and the drought continued through the autumn months, even to the middle of November, and it was not until the latter end of the month that the rainfall was of any consequence. In fact, in October, the rainfall was only J inch, though the average for that month for the last 50 years has been 3 inches. Partly in consequence of this prolonged drought the water supply to the town of Pool was very much restricted, and late on in the year, the first week in November, the supply to the town was curtailed to four hours per diem, and the inhabitants were threatened with a water famine. I say, gentlemen, that the scarcity of water was partly due to the prolonged drought, but there can be no doubt that it was also due to the insufficient storage capacity of the present reservoirs, which are inadequate to provide the town, and the Cambrian Railways, with a constant supply of water during the summer months. 1 venture to say that a summer never passes, øxcept it is an exceedingly wet one, without the supply to the town being curtailed to a few hours a day, week after week, so that this year has been no exception to the rule. It is again my duty to condemn, as I have on previous occasions, the practice of providing water for the Cambrian Railways when the supply is not sufficient even for the wants of the inhabitants of the town. Such was the case during last year, when, as I say, the town was threatened with a water famine, and I cannot too strongly condemn it, the town undoubtedly suffered in consequence, for not only was the scarcity of water a cause of great inconvenience to the inhabitants but a source of imminent danger to the public health, which certainly should be the first consideration. You are aware, gentlemen, that the water of the Black Pool has lately been analysed by the Public Analyst, and has been found to be a good drinking water, and quite free from suspicion of contamination by sewerage. I must again urge the necessity of in- creasing the present filter be.ds, the area is not sufficient for the thorough filtration of the water. During stormy weather they soon become choked, and the water delivered to the mains is consequently cloudy and sometimes very thick. Although the analysis of the water taken last October shows such good results, nevertheless the supply may become contaminated at any moment, and therefore a care- ful vigilance should ba exercised at all times. With regard to this, the drainage of Castle Caereinion is especially commented upon below. I would re- commend that the stream supplying the reservoirs be fenced off as much as possible to prevent cattle from straying into it and contaminating the water, which is likely to occur, especially in the hot summer months. I further think there would be much saving of water if the stream was cleaned out in some portions of its course, and so kept within a certain limit, to prevent loss from absorption by the land bordering upon it, over the edges of which it flows to a great extent. I understand, gentlemen, that the water question is now under your serious consideration and that you have sought the advice of an expert in the matter. But allow me to express my strong opinion that the storage capacity of the reservoirs should be so increased as to ensure a regular and constant supply of water, night and day, to the inhabitants of the town of Pool during the driest summer, and not until this is accomplished should any water be sup- plied to the Cambrian Railways during the summer months, as this is a constant drain on the resevoirs, and greatly curtails the supply, which should be delivered for the benefit of the town. Finally I remind you, gentlemen, that you are the body responsible under the Public Health Acts for secur- ing to the inhabitants of this town, a proper and sufficient supply of water.—Drainage:—I am aware that some steps have been taken with regard to the drainage of Castle Caereinion, and that some terms have been arrived at with the Forden District Council, but I take this opportunity to impress upon you, and that strongly, the urgency of the matter, and beg that you will endeavour immediately, to take such measure as will remedy the nuisance which has too long existed, and which is a constant sourse of danger to the water of Welsbpool. The drainage of the town continued to be fairly satis- factory the exception of the main sewer in Berriew Street, which has very little fall and easily becomos silted up. And now that new houses are being erected in that direction, some measures should be taken to remedy the defect. I have generally visited the various parts of the Borough during the past years for the purpose of inspecting existing nuisances and where infectious disease has appeared. The slaughter houses and bake- houses I have found clean and well kept and free from nuisance. Welshpool 28 January, 1898.— Mr Addie proposed that their best thanks be given to Dr Marston for his very able report. He had touched on some matters of the greatest importance. He was sure the Sanitary Committee would give their best attention to them. There was a recom- mendation that the agreement with the Railway Company be terminated. There could be no doubt that a more business-like arrangement should be made. There was a minute of the Sanitary Com- mittee on the subject and he would like to see it confirmed.—Mr Rogers seconded the motion, which was agreed to. BACTERIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF THE WATER The Mayor proposed that the water supply from nine different places should be submitted for bacteriological examination at a cost of JE4 10s. It had been recommended by Mr Beloe.—Dr Marston said he would like to know whether this examina- tion would he carried out periodically.—The Mayor said that would be another question.—The motion was then agreed to.—This concluded the ordinary business of the Council. THE REPORT ON THE WATER SUPPLY. Mr Beloe in his report stated that he had mad a careful inspection of the Black Pool and Upper Pool Reservoirs, and of the water shed from which these two reservoirs are supplied. He found that both reservoirs leak considerably, and have not sufficient capacity for storing the water required for the town during a long drought. He was in- formed that the water of the Black Pool can only be drawn off to about 3ft 6in below the bottom of the sluice, although the reservoir is 15ft. deep. The south side of the Black Pool has a very steep slope upon which the puddle will not stand and there is considerable leakage. He was informed there was a large quantity of mud in this reservoir. The Upper reservoir leaked considerably. The filters are totally inadequate in area to filter the quantity of water required and are constructed on an obsolete principle. There are several sources of pollution in the water shed. The chemical analysis submitted to me" he says shews that the water was of a very fair quality although I have no information as to where these samples were taken or what was the state of the reservoir at the time." "I recommend," he continues, "that a bacteriological examination of the water be made which would not be an expensive proceeding." With regard to the pipes he was informed that they want scraping. He remarks that no means exist of ascertaining the quantity of water supplied to the town, and says there is every probability that great waste of water goes on. THE MEASURES TO BE TAKEN. The first thing is to ascertain the actual con- sumption of water. He was informed that it is 150,000 gallons a day which, less 40,000 gallons taken by the Railway Company, leaves 25 gallons a head to be used by the population. In his opinion this is excessive and could be reduced. For this purpose be recommends the temporary introduction of a meter in the main immediately below the filter beds. He recommends the Corporation to accept the loan of a Deacon's waste water meter at 10s a week or JE3 10s for eight weeks, the Corporation to pay cost of carriage and firing. The price of the meter is E2, 1 net. He recommends that the quantity of water flowing into. the upper reservoir be gauged to ascertain approximately the amount of leakage. THE WATER SHED. He estimates the water shed at 1,600 acres and that the quantity of water that could be collected on it would be 504J million gallons. The con- sumption of the town at 150,000 gallons a day would be 544 million gallons per annum, therefore 10 times the quantity of water required could be collected from this watershed. The watershed above Castle Caereinion, and therefore above the sources of pollution, is only 160 acres in extent and would give 51 gallons per annum, barely sufficient for the supply of the town if it could all be stored, and there is no site on which a reservoir could be constructed. STORAGE. No water supply from a catchment area can be considered at all sufficient in this country unless there is a storage capacity of at least 100 days' supply. In the absence of definite figures and sections he 1annot ascertain the exact storage capacity of the existing reservoirs, but he estimates it at a total of 6 million gallons, which is manifestly insufficient. PROPOSED WORKS. Without taking levels and going further into details it is impossible for me to decide, he says, which is the most economical methpd of providing the addi- tional quantity of storage room, but from the infor- mation at my disposal I am inclined to think that the better plan would be to sink a puddle trench across the valley on the centre line of the embank- ment of the Black Pool, carry it down to a water. tight foundation and also well into the hill sides and raise the embankment of this pool so that the top water level may coincide with that of the Upper Pool. If this should not give the requisite capacity a third reservoir could be constructed on the site of the old Mill Pool which formerly sup- plied Sylfaen Mill, but I am inclined to think that the embankment I have suggested would give sufficient storage provided also that the outlet for the proposed new Black Pool reservoir should be so constructed that all the water contained in the reser- voir could be utilised. The upper pool could be used to supply the town during the progress of the work. NEW FILTERS. This would involve the reconstruction of the filters, as the present filters are at too high a level for that purpose and are totally inadequate. There is ample land belonging to the Corporation for the construction of these filters, but the exact level at which they ought to be built can only be ascertained by actual levelling. CONTAMINATION. As the whole of the water shed, with the exception of a small portion, is within the borough, he con- siders that the Corporation could deal with the pollution under the powers of the Public Health Act. He is informed that Cwm Spring, although not included in the lease from Lord Powis, is one of the principal sources of supply, and he recom- mends that it should be fenced round and cleaned and steps taken to prevent its pollution. FILTERED WATER, METER, &C. and steps taken to prevent its pollution. FILTERED WATER, METER, &C. He recommended the construction of a filtered water tank as a means of regulating the rate of filtration, which at present must be exceedingly rapid when the consumption of the town is great. He recommends that a permanent meter be placed below the filtered water tank. The water supplied during 1896 to the Railway Company amounted to less than nine million gallons for which the Com- pany paid R110, making the price nearly 3d per 1,000 gallons. In 1897 the supply was 8t million gallons. If the Company took the whole of the 40,000 gallons to which they are entitled they would obtain the water at a cost of 1 8d per 1,000 gallons, which was a very advantageous bargain for the Company. In most places they would have to pay 6d to 8d per 1,000 gallons. The Corporation have power to terminate this agreement with the Com- pany in March 1899 on giving six months' notice. He considered that improved regulations should be adopted for the prevention of the waste of water. Service pipes should be ld outside the premises of the consumer and a proper stop cock should be fixed on every service pipe. The cisterns for w.c's should be limited in capacity. Fire plugs should be replaced by proper hydrants. SUMMARY. The report is summarised as follows: (1) That the quantity of water which can be collected from the watershed is ample for the supply of the town. (2) That a temporary meter be provided in order that the actual quantity of water supplied to the town may be accurately ascertained. (3) That the storage capacity be increased. (4) That improved filter beds and a filtered water tank be constructed and provided with a permanent meter. (5) That an examination of the mains and service pipes be made to ascertain cause of leakage, and regulations adopted for the prevention of waste. (6) That means should be taken to prevent the pollution of the supply, and that a -bacteriological examination of the water be made. (7) That the advisability of continuing the present agreement with the Rail- way Company should be considered. GUILSFIELD WATER SUPPLY. In accordance with instructions given him by the Mayor, Mr Beloe visited Guilsfied on the 6th inst., and had an interview with Captain Mytton who showed him three pools. The middle pool is the one which Captain Mytton suggested should be used to supply the village of Guilsfield with water. The area of the watershed supplying these pools is about 210 acres which would be ample to supply the population of 200 people, and a suitable reser- voir could be constructed on the site of the middle pool. It would be necessary to negotiate with Captain Mytton as to the quantity of water he would undertake to supply from the middle pool, as he has control of this pool and can use all the water coming into it for his own purposes. At the time of his visit there was no over-flow from the upper pool although the weather had been very wet. He could not report further on this matter without knowing more about Captain Mytton's views on the subject. THE PORTRAIT OF HER MAJESTY FOR THE COUNCIL CHAMBER. Miss NAYLOR'S DIAMOND JUBILEE GIFT. At the conclusion of the business at the Town Council meeting on Thursday a special meeting was held at which all the members who had taken part in the business were present, and also Mr Councillor Hawksworth and Mr Councillor Richards. Miss Naylor was received in order that she might present the portrait of Her Majesty the Queen, which she had painted, in commemoration of the Diamond Jubilee. There were also present Mrs Twyford, Mrs Grimaidi Davis, Mrs G. D. Harrison, Mr W. Rogers, J.P., Mr J. Morris, Mr Maurice Jones, and Mr E. L. R. Jones.—Miss Naylor said it gave her great pleasure to present the portrait for the acceptance of the Corporation. She thought it extremely kind of Her Majesty to allow the paint- ing to be"copied. Mrs Humphreys-Owen, who in. terested herself in obtaining permission, said that the Queen might remember her visit to Welshpool many years ago. The portrait was painted twenty years ago. There were no very satisfactory recent portraits. There was one painted ten years ago which she understood was not considered so good. This was the Queen's favourite portrait. If they would accept the portrait and let it remain there she would be very g)ad.-The Mayor in accepting the gift, on behalf of the members of the Town Council and the burgesses, offered Miss Naylor his best thanks for this handsome portrait. There were some doubts as to where it should be hung, but it had been almost decided that the best place was the Council Chamber, where assembled the various bodies who were interested in the material welfare and education of the com- munity, the County Council, the Governing Body, for education, the Grand Jury, the Town Council, and others. If at any time any member of those various bodies should be hesitating, influenced by some sordid or party spirit, as to how he should vote he might perhaps be influenced by a glance at that portrait and by recalling the example that her Majesty has set to her subjects to do all for the- public good (applause.) All who looked at that portrait would be reminded of the life of the Lady who has always set an example of noble acts, good intentions, and thoughtfulness, for the good of her people under her sway The other day there was a touching instance of this in her visit to the sick and wounded at Netley Hospital. He (the Mayor) was present when her Majesty laid the foundation stone of that building. He accompanied a guard of honour composed of men who had been invalided from the Crimea for wounds and sickness—-mostly Royal Welsh f usiliers. Her Majesty visitod the men at their dinners and conversed with them, and asked them about their wounds and about the hardships and sufferings they had gone through— showing her kindness and sympathetic fueling towards her soldiers and all others. He hoped Miss Naylor would not think him impertinent if tie said that she also had set a very bright example to the community (applause). She might have dOl). as so many have done—handed over a smal! amount of her superfluities as a jubilee gift. Bat she had done much better (bear, hear). She had given them the fruit of her labour. She had presented them with a very beautiful specimen of her skill as an artist (applause) painted expressly for Welshpool. The Borough of Welshpool and the inhabitants were indebted to her for her kindness and generosity in presenting them with this beautiful picture, which would hereafter adorn their Council Chamber and would, he hoped, instruct the present and future inhabitants of Welshpool in the personality of, without doubt, the greatest monarch that had ever sat on the throne of the British Empire (applause).—The Ex-Mayor heartily supported every word that the Mayor had said, and joined in bis expressions of thanks to Miss Naylor for the veiy beautiful portrait of Her Majesty that she had presented to the town of Welshpool. He felt that he might be allowed to do so as he had the honour to be Mayor when he announced that Miss Naylor had kindly promised to paint the picture. It reflected the greatest credit on Miss Naylor, and he joined in the congratulations to her. He suggested that the chairman of the Town Hall Committee should give orders that the Council Chamber should be re- decorated. The picture he thought required it (applause).-—The Mayor formally expressed the unanimous thanks of the Council to Miss Naylor for her gift. Miss Naylor, in reply, seid the mayor had over-rated the painting. It had been a pleasure to her to paint it, and doubly a pleasure when she was doing it for a town that she knew so well. The portrait, which has been hung, for the time being at any rate, between the windows that look out on Hall street, is a three-quarter length and represents her Majesty as she was some twenty years ago. The frame bears the inscription Her Majesty Queen Victoria, copied by per- mission from the portrait at Windsor Castle painted by Professor Angeli in 1875. Presented by Miss G. Naylor in commemoration of the Royal Diamond Jubilee, 1897." It is doubtful whether a better position in the Council Chamber could be found for the portrait, the place now occupied by the clock, which could be hung above the fire-place, might be tried. Those who go to see the portrait, and it woald be worth anybody's while to do so, will find that they will see it very much better if the blinds of the windows on either side are drawn. Then the front windows light the picture very effectively.
CORRESPUNDEA CB.
CORRESPUNDEA CB. To CORRESPONDENTS. Communication* for this column should be addressed to the Editor, and must be written upon one side of the paper only. They should in all cases be accompanied by the name and address of the sender, not necessarily for publication but ait a guarantee of good faith.
CAN A PARISH COUNCIL BUY A…
CAN A PARISH COUNCIL BUY A HEARSE? To the Editor of the COUNTY TIMES. Sir,—Many parishes are anxious to know whether the Parish Council can legally assess a rate where- with to buy a hearse for the use of the parish. The Act gives no light on the subject, and many would like to have the opinion of some of your readers who are versed in the law, whether a Parish Coun- cil can buy a hearse without the members indivi- dually making themselves liable to be sued for the cost. There are many parishes who are in great need of a hearse, and it is only the fear of the liability that prevents many a Parish Council from ordering one. NANT YR EIRA.
THE PROPOSED DEVIL'S BRIDGE…
THE PROPOSED DEVIL'S BRIDGE RAILWAY. To the Editor of the COUNTY TIMES. SIR,-The inhabitants of Capel Bangor and the Rheidol Valley regret very much to learn that it is probable that the Devil's Bridge railway scheme will be abandoned owing to the obstinacy of a few landowners. Certainly they must be very selfish and blind to their own interest. Agriculture and the mining interest are at a very low ebb at present, the mines in the district are closed, and some of the best farms in the county are being ruined by continual change of hands. With the coming of the East and West Railway, and the rapid growth of Aberystwyth, the land in the Rheidol Valley osght to double in value in a few years if it had proper railway accommodation. We have some of the finest building sites in the prin- cipality. At Aberystwyth workmen's cottages are scarce, whilst at Capel Bangor and Goginan half the cottages are empty, and the few that are occupied are tenanted by the wives and children of the men who are down in South Wales still hoping for better times at home. What a boon to a working man to have a decent cottage at a moderate rent. With a cheap workmen's traia running between here and Aberystwyth every house in the neighbourhood would soon be occupied. What a blessing it would be to the crowded poor of Aberystwyth and what a source of revenue to the owners of property in this dis- trict. At the foot of Devil's Bridge again there is a very rich blend mine ready to start and give work to scores of poor people. The cost of haulage from this place to Aberystwyth by road would eat up most of the profit and the landowner lose his royalty. In the long run, the policy of these landowners is penny-wise and pound-foolish. Would it not be a good plan for the Town, County, District and Parish Councils to pass a resolution and present a petition to these landowners praying them to come to reasonable terms with the pro- moters of the above scheme?—Yours, &c., AN OLD MINER. THROAT IRRITATION AND COUGH.—Soreness and dryness, tickling and irritation, including cough and affecting the voice. For these symptoms use Epps's Glycerine Jujubes. In contact with the glands at the moment they are excited by the act of sucking, the Glycerine in these agreeable confectionp be- comes actively healing. Sold in tins, 7 £ d. and Is. l^d., labelled "JAMES EPPS & Co., Ltd., Homoeopathic Chemists, London." Dr. Moore, in his work on Nose and Throat Disease," says: The Glycerine Jujubes prepared by James Epps and Co., are of undoubted service as a curative oif palliative agent," while Dr. Gordon Holmes, Senior Physician to the Municipal Throat and Ear In- firmary, writes: "After an extended trial, I have found your Glycerine Jujubes of considerable benefit in almost all forms of throat disease." A rising has taken place in the Central Africam territory know as North Cliarterland and a British force of 400 men, with gatlings, has been sent against the chief Mpseni. Some officials of the Charterland Company are said to have been sur- rounded, and fears are expressed as to their safety.
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