Welsh Gazette and West Wales Advertiser

Alleged Sunday Drinking at Trefechan. At the Aberystwyth Petty Sessions on Wed- nesday, before the Mayor (Mr. D. C. Roberts), Messrs. R. J. Jones, C. M. Williams, T. Griffiths, J. Lewis, and Isaac Hopkins, John S. P. Wemyss, of the Fountain Inn, Trefechan, was charged by the Chief Constable (Mr. Howell Evans) with selling intoxicating liquors on Sunday, June 11th. P.C. Richard Jones stated that, in company with P.C. Thomas Rowlands, he was on detective duty near the Fountain Inn about 7-45 p.m. on the day in question, when he saw John Lewis, labourer, of Trefechan, go down along Fountain Court, re- turn towards the front door of the Inn and stop there two or three minutes, during which time he was out of sight. He then crossed over to the opposite side, near the Fountain Inn stables. He was almost immediately followed by W. L. Jones, a militiaman. They were there seen passing bottles of whisky one to the other Immediately after Thomas Lovell came up, Mrs. Wemyss was seen to hand over a small bottle, apparently containing liquor to him. when he was in the act of placing it in his pocket it fell and broke. Witness then went up and accused Mrs. Wemyss of selling intoxicating liquors on Sunday, and she replied that she had not given Lovell anything. Lovell, on being charged, also denied having received it. Witness picked up portions of the broken bottle and showed it to Mrs. Wemyss, and stated that was the bottle given to Lovell, and that he (witness) had seen the whole affair. She again denied it. Then Mr. Wemyss came out, and on being charged with the offence he said that he had only just got out of bed and knew nothing about it. Cross-examined by Mr. A. J. Hughes (who appeared for the defendant) The witness adhered to his evidence in every detail. P. C. Thomas Rowlands gave corroborative evidence. On the application of Mr. Hughes the case was adjourned for a week.

ABERYSTWYTH TOWN COUNCIL. At the fortnightly meeting of the above Council held at the Town Hall on Tuesday, there were present: the Mayor, (Councillor D. C. Roberts) Aldermen Peter Jones, T. Doughton, W. H. Palmer, and David Roberts; Councillors C. M. Williams, R. Doughton, R. J. Jones, J. P. Thomas, T. E. Salmon, E. H. James and John Jenkins, together with the Town Clerk (Mr. Arthur J. Hughes), the Surveyor (Mr. Rees Jones), and the Borough Accountant (Mr. H. L. Evans). WORKMEN'S DWELLINGS. The Finance Committee reported that the plans prepared by the Surveyor having been approved of, he was instructed to fence off a portion of the field adjoining Smithfield-road, upon which it was pro- posed to erect workmen's dwellings, and to allow debris, &c., to be tipped there, which would materially reduce the cost of filling up. The com- mittee recommended that the Town Clerk be instructed to take the necessary steps for the holding of an inquiry for the purpose of ob- taining a loan of Z3,300 for the erection of workmen's dwellings. Councillor Williams pointed out that there was no formal record that the plans had been ratified, and he, therefore, moved that the plans presented by the Surveyor be approved of, and that the report of the committee be adopted. Councillor Jones seconded. Alderman Palmer said the council bad not approved of the plans. Councillor Williams replied that they were duly examined by most of the members, and it would now be for the Local Government Board to go into them; and, possibly, suggest some alterations. Any ratepayer would have an opportunity of appearing at the inquiry, and of going into the matter again. Alderman Palmer: I have not seen the plans, and I know of other members who have not. Councillor Williams: They were laid on the table. Aldeerman Palmer proceeded to advocate the inquiry, when held, should not be for one object alone, but should include the Town Hall improve- ments and the Promenade. It was perfectly under- stood what the inquiry was to be for. It was no use have au inquiry only for workmen's dwellings. It was decided five or six years ago to hold an inquiry with reference to the extension of the Promenade, which was the most important of all. He asked if the Town Clerk had not already been instructed with regard to the inquiry. The Town Clerk: No. The Mayor: It is true that all the proposed inquiries were discussed, but then plans have to be prepared, and other things attended to, first of all. With regard to workmen's dwellings the plans are practically ready, and therefore if an inquiry can be held as to this all the better. As soon as we have the other matters ready we shall be in a position to hold the other inquiries. Alderman Palmer: These separate inquiries cost nioney-E50 or £ 70.— Councillor Williams Nothing of the kind. Alderman Palmer: Let me say what I mean to say. Councillor Williams: I only want to put you right. Alderman Palmer: I can show you that these inquiries cost so much. He went on to repeat that one inquiry was enough for the three schemes now before the Council. The plans for the extension of the promenade had been seen even by the public, but something else cropped up, and they were put away. Let them borrow the money for the three schemes and then see what the ratepayers would like to have done first. As to workmen's dwellings, he was a large ratepayer, and was willing to con- tribute his share, but they ought to ascertain what scheme the ratepayers wished to go on with first. Councillor Williams: Workmen's dwellings. Alderman Palmer said that he was perfectly willing to go in for workmen's dwellings, but this matter had been rushed during the last year or two, and there were other things standing of as much importance to the town, because if they did not attract visitors they could not get money to keep the workmen, and it was no use to build dwellings if they had no workmen to live in them. He was quite willing to have an inquiry, but let it cover all these projects, and let them instruct the Town Clerk accordingly. The workmen's dwellings had been brought on as an election, cry for next November, and nothing more (cries of dissent). The Mayor (interposing): I don't think you have a right to make a remark of that kind. Alderman Palmer: I don't care; never mind; what I have said I have said (laughter). You are shoving this thing through. The Mayor (again interposing) I must ask you now what you are going to move. Alderman Palmer: I move as an amendment that the first part be left out. Couucillor Jones remarked that he had asked at a previous meeting whether it was possible to em- body the whole of the projects in one inquiry. He thought it would save expense. He was given to understand by the Mayor that the plans for the extension of the promenade would be prepared in time for the impending inquiry, but with regard to the exterior of the Town Hall it was stated there were certain difficulties in the way. He (Mr. Jones) said he did not wish to impede the holding of the inquiry with regard to workmen's dwellings, because he thought they were greatly needed at Aberystwyth; but he thoroughly agreed with Alderman Palmer, if it was impossible to in- clude the other projects. There was another very important matter which he did not wish to discuss, but with regard to which they ought to be pre- pared-he referred to the proposal to borrow money for the extension of the sewer. This was a matter of very great importance to the town, and he felt very acutely with regard to it himself. If they were in a position to bring all these matters before the inquiry they ought to do it, and so save further expense in having another inquiry. Let them have a complete inquiry, and borrow a sufficient sum of money to carry out all the projects they had in view. Councillor R. Doughton remarked that Too much cargo sinks the ship." The best plan would be to do these projects piecemeal. Let them do one job, get that out of the way, and then go on with the next. He doubted whether the Local Government Board would send a man down to in- inquire into all these schemes at once there were enough of them to frighten the town. Alderman Doughton remarked that the rebuilding of the Town Hall and the extension of the promenade had been decided on some time ago but Alderman Palmer ought to know there were difficulties in the way, so that it was impossible to induce the Local Government Boari to grant the inquiry or the money, and it was only recently that that difficulty had been got over. Now he could not see why they could not include all the projects in one inquiry. They would have 30, 40 or 50 years to repay the loans. Councillor Williams said that that they must make a beginning somewhere. With regard to the Town Hall, they were not in a position now to apply for a loan, the plans not having been approved of by the County Council, who were the owners of the premises. Alderman Doughton: Have they ever been placed before the County Council ? t Councillor Williams: Yes, and referred to the Finance Committee, and they will be further con- sidered. Proceeding, Mr. Williams said that with regard to the promenade extension, it was only about three years ago that the report was presented, y 'In but he did not believe there had ever been a resolution passed with reference to an inquiry. There was a report to that effect, but there was no resolution, which was necessary before they could ask for all inquiry. It was ridiculous to attempt to delay a question that was ready to be carried out, He had not heard anyone disputing the fact that workmen's dwellings were needed. Alderman Palmer said the matter had been rushed through, but, as a matter of fact, it had been discussed repeatedly at the Council and Committees during the past three years, and the Council should feel ashamed that there had been such delay in the matter. If they had acted in a business-like way, the matter ought to have been completed long ago. Whenever it was brought forward, there were attempts to delay it. Now the matter was mature, and public opinion in the town was unanimous; and if there was one question more than another that the ratepayers felt keenly ought to be carried out first, he believed it was improved dwellings for the workmen. He thought that the whole of the report should be adopted. Councillor Jones seconded the adoption of the Committee's report. He added, however, that he thought the inquiry should include the other schemes. Councillor Williams said that Alderman Palmer had made one remark that was considerably below his usual method of acting in the Council. He stated said Mr. Williams that this was simply an electioneering-I don't know whether he used the word dodge." Alderman Palmer: No I didn't. Councillor Williams: Atany rate he used a word that was inappropriate. I believe that the mem- bers of the Council have stooped to conduct of that kind, but this is the first time that Alderman Palmer has done so. Mr. Robert Doughton, who was elected last year, said No, no, that does not apply to you." I take it that Alderman Palmer means that it applies to those who are retiring next November. I am one of those, and I am per- fectly willing to fight the election on this issue. Let Alderman Palmer resign his seat and contest with me if he wants, to test the feeling of the town. I am suprised he should have made that remark. Councillor Jones He made it jocularly. Alderman Doughton explained that he was not against having an inquiry with reference to work- men's dwellings. Alderman Palmer said he wished to move the following amendment: That the Town Clerk be instructed to take the necessary steps for holdincr an inquiry with respect to the extension of the Promenade, the Town Hall, and the workmen's t dwellings. The Mayor That is no amendment. Alderman Palmer Yes, I think so. t Councillor Williams: That will involve an in- crease in the loan » The Mayor You can place it on the agenda for the next meeting. Alderman Jones thought the matter could be deferred, as the site would not be ready for use for some time. At the last meeting attention was drawn to the non-completion of the paving of the town. A comprehensive report was presented to the Council some time ago; it took in all the portions of the town that had not being flaged, paved and channelled; there would be a report bearing on of the subjects at the next meeting, Therefore there would be no disadvantage in deferr-I ing the writing of the formal letter to the Local Government Board, because the taking away of the debris would occupy so much time. Councillor Salmon pointed out that there had been an agitation among the workmen with regard to the question of workmen's dwellings for the past seven years. The cry of the working men at election times had been The necessity of better [dwellings." They knew what the "fortnight" delays meant-they meant months in the end. They ought to attend more to the interests of the working men than to the extension of the pro- menade and other matters, which were con- templated. He was in favour of all these improvements, but he was always in favour of doing their duty by the working classes. They had no proper dwellings, and they had to pay enormous rents for a couple of rooms. Alderman Palmer said this was only an election cry. He (Alderman Palmer) had fought very few elections. He had been made an alderman, and could say whatever he liked without regard to the ratepayers, That showed he had not got the ratepayers at heart. Alderman Palmer: I have fought four elections. Mr. Salmon: Yes, I remember you coming out first. I remember the number of votes you had on the last occasion; but you have been alderman for many years, and during that time things have changed. If you, or any other alderman, were to go before the electors now and advocate such ideas as have been mentioned here to-day, you would be at the bottom of the poll, as I was once (laughter). The feeling of the town was, he added, that they should go on with workmen's dwellings at once- Councillor Williams could see no object in de- ferring the writing of the letter. The Town Clerk might intimate that in a fortnight's time there would be an application in respect to other pro- jects. The Local Government Board could not send down an Inspector by return of post. The County Council had had to wait many months, and some Councils even twelve months. What harm could there be in making a start 1 The Committee's report was then adopted. FINANCIAL ITEMS. The Finance Committee's report also contained the following items, which were passed:—The Council having been in the habit of appointing the auctioneers resident in the town in their respective turns to sell, and it being the turn of Mr. E. Ellis, your Committee recommend that he be appointed to let the building sites on Cae Charles and Port- land-road on Tuesday, the 20th June. Mr. R. K. Jenkins having commenced business in the town, his name was placed on the list.—A letter was read from the M. and M. Railway Co. asking for a lease of the property now occupied by Messrs. James and Co. adjoining the slaughter-house. The same not having been read at the Council meeting and referred to your Committee, the same was not considered. PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE. The Public Works Committee's report was as follows:—The Committee recommend that the application of Mr. J. Purton for the removal of the water meter from 42, Terrace-road to the North Parade, be acceded to. the water to be used only for driving the motor.—A letter was received from the L. and N.W. Railway Company asking for permission to place a time bill board on the Marine-terrace. Your Committee regret they cannot entertain the application.—Mr. O. Beddoes submitted a plan of a dwelling-house proposed to be erected by him in Rheidol-terrace, which was approved of, subject to a copy of the plan being deposited with the Borough Surveyor.—Inspector of Nuisances' report: The Inspector of Nuisances presented his report, which was read, and in- structions given thereon.—The Borough Surveyor applied for assistance in the preparation of tracing of plans of the proposed paving scheme, which was granted by your Committee.—The Borough Surveyor was instructed to take proceedings against all persons leaving caravans or vehicles on the vacant piece of land near Trefechan Bridge. Alderman Jones moved the adoption of the report, which was carried. MR. ISAAC HOPKINS' LEASE. Councillor Salmon asked what had become of the application of Mr. Isaac Hopkins for the renewal of the lease. Councillor Williams, in reply, said that he was always under the impression that Mr. Salmon read the reports of the various committees. At the last meeting a letter was read from Mr. Hugh Hughes, solicitor, on behalf of Mr. Hopkins, in reference to the lease. It was true Mr. Hopkins attended, and intimated that he would not mind withdrawing his claim. He was urged by one or two members to withdraw it, and he ultimately said that he did not mind doing it. The Committee thought that Mr. Hopkins should put that in writing. Since then they had one or two meetings of the Finance Committee, but had heard nothing more from Mr. Hopkins, and until they had the matter could not be further considered. Mr. Salmon thought Mr. Hopkins' word was as good as any writing. Was not one member's word as good as any other member's ? It was ridiculous on the face of it that any member of the Council should say to another, We won't take your word." That was the meaning of it. Councillor Williams: No, no. It is purely a matter of business. Alderman Jones: We have decided that, until we have an official notification from him, the ques- tion cannot be entertained. It was much prefer- able that they should have it in writing. Mr. Salmon He has attended the Commitee and told you. What more do you want ? The matter then dropped. MR. GIBSON'S ALLEGATIONS. The minutes of a meeting of a committee of the whole Conncil held on June 10th, for the pur- pose of enquiring into the truth or otherwise of the very serious allegations made by Mr. John Gibson, senior," were submitted to the Council. The report stated :-The result of the independent enquiry into all the circumstances by Inspector New, on behalf of the National Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Children, and of his interview with Mr. Gibson, the police, and other authorities of the town having been communicated to your Com- mittee, and the Medical Officer of Health and the other officials of the Council having confirmed the report of Inspector New that there was no founda- tion to the serious allegations made by Mr. Gibson, your Committee, beg to report that it has been proved to their satisfaction that there is absolutely no foundation for the allegations referred to; and they further desire to express their strongest dis- approval and condemnation of the conduct ofMrGib- son in making such serious and groundless allega- tions against the town. Your Committee recommend that the best thanks of the Council be tendered to the National Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Children for the prompt enquiry instigated by the Society into the circumstances of the case. Councillor Thomas moved the adoption of the minutes. Councillor Jones seconded. Councillor Williams remarked that at the meet- ing on Saturday evening, the Town Clerk read a letter received from Mr. Gibson, in which he stated that if Captain Doughton or Mr. C. M. Williams had wished for information they might have asked him weeks ago; he would have given it freely as he had to other members of the Corporation. All the members of the Corporation present were asked personally whether they had any information whatsoever from Mr. Gibson, and all replied that they had not, except the Mayor, who stated that he had received certain information in confidence. There were four members who were not present at that meeting- viz., Messrs. Palmer, Roberts, Marks, and Salmon,—and they had also since stated that they had never received^any information with reference to the serious allegations made by Mr. Gibson, so that the only member of the Council who had received information from Mr. Gibson was the Mayor. He (Mr. Williams) was exceedingly sorry that the Mayor did receive the information in confidence, knowing the seriousness of the allega- tions which had been made by Mr. Gibson. Councillor Salmon said the whole Council were sorry Mr. Gibson should have made these serious allegations against the town, and that the thing should have cropped up in the manner it had. The allegations had now been "advertised" all over the country. But for the steps taken by the Council the whole matter would have blown over, and great blame was attached to the Council for having done what they had. He himself knew nothing about it till he saw the report in the Western Mail," and he was surprised to see it. He could not say anything to contradict it then, but the facts that had since come to light showed the allegations to have no foundation. There was no doubt but that certain things induced Mr. Gibson to make the allegations. He (Mr. Salmon) understood there was a certain place-a cowshed -where a man, his wife, and five children slept on the floor. Alderman Doughton: That's wrong. Councillor Salmon If it is correct, it only o-ives ground for such allegations. b The Mayor: That is not correct. I believe a family have been in the cowshed, but the moment the officials found it out they were served with notices, and they have gone from there. Alderman Doughton: They went on Friday night. Councillor Williams They were not there when these serious allegations were made by Mr. Gibson. Mr. Salmon remarked that this was an incident which they should remember when considering the question of workmen's dwellings. These people probably could not get a house anvwhere: that. showed that there was something to encourage these allegations. Alderman Doughton But that is quite different from the allegations that have been made. The allegations were that there is a building here where little children were done to death. With regard to the people found in the cowshed, it ap- «pears that they went there last Friday night week. They were not found out until some day fast week, and they were cleared out on Friday night. Now they have gone out of the town altogether. We have no need to have these allegations thrown against the Council, but this allegation does not refer to the sanitary condition of the town it is a distinct accusation in itself. Councillor Williams With no attempt to prove it. The Mayor said with reference to the cowshed he knew of it, and he knew for a fact the officials took immediate steps to serve notice on the people and they had gone from there. The report was then passed. LEASES. The next item on the agenda read thus To authorise the Mayor to affix the Corporate Seal to a reversionary lease to Mr. Wm. Rowlands, of No 16, Penmaesglas-road. for a term of 75 years, to commence from the 12th day of November, 1898. at an annual commuted fine of Z8 Os. 9d., and an annual ground rent of 2s. 6d. Terms:-Original grant, October, 1813; years unexpired, 14; scale, Si rental, Z9, with 15 per cent off. Z7 13s.; fine, £66 18s. 9d; commuted at £4 10s 9d, Z3 Os 9d; ground rent, 2s 6d total B5 3s 3d. Councillor Williams, in moving this, said serious mis-statements and falsehoods had been made by certain people in reference to this case, to the effect that practically no work had been done. As a matter of fact Mr. Rowlands had done more than two-fold what he was asked to do. It was true he did not do the work neccessary in accord- ance with the original terms, but it was no fault of his. The work that had been done by him, and inspected by the committee, was of the most sub- stantial kind. and would compare favourably with any similar work in the whole of Aberystwyth. It had been stated that the people next door had endured some hardship in respect to their house; all he could say was that Mr. Rowlands had done more work than desired, and incurred greater expense. Councillor James seconded. Councillor R. Doughton said that conditions given had been carried out by the other two houses which had not been carried out by Mr. Rowlands. Alderman Jones It is whipping a dead horse. We have had this before us already, and we are now only carrying into effect resolutions already passed. The Mayor agreed that the Council had fully discussed the matter, Councillor R. Doughton I shouldn't have spoken if Mr. Williams hadn't (laughter). Councillor Williams The next door neighbours were not obliged to erect a chimney. That had been the case with Mr. Rowlands only. The motion was then agreed to. The next items on the Agenda were as follows:— To accept a surrender of the residue in land and premises called and known as 26, North-parade, and to authorize the Mayor to afSx the Corporation Seal to a new lease of tlie said premises to Mrs. Elizabeth James for the term of 75 years to commence from the 12th day of November,"l896, at a commuted fine of £ 5 9s. 6d. and an annual ground rent of 5s." To authorise the Mayor to affix the Corporate Seal to an agreement for a Lease to Mrs. Elizabeth James of a piece of land situate in Port- land Road for a term of 75 years to commence from the 12th day of November, 1896, at an annual fine of 14s. 10d. and an annual ground rent of 2s 6d." The following are the terms:—The renewal of Mrs. E. James's Lease having been refused by the Council on the 4th October, 1898, on the ground that the conditions stipulated in the terms and conditions had not been carried out, Mrs. James having applied to the Council to reconsider the conditions as to the placing of new windows in the premises and having stated that she did not require bay windows, your Committee having carefully re- considered the matter and having received the Boiough Surveyor's report upon the condition of the present windows, recommend the granting of the renewal of this Lease upon the following terms: -Original grant, October, 1824 years unexpired, 27; scale, 4 £ rental, P-31 10s. less 15 per cent. off, £ 26 15s. 6d.; fine, E120 9s. 9d.; commuted at £ 4 10s. 9d., P-5 9s. 6.; ground rent, 5s.; total, £5 14s. 6d. Councillor Williams said this was the only report on which the Council had objected to adopt the recommendations of the Committee, and was pro- ceeding to refer to the Mayor's casting vote when- Alderman Jones objected to his remarks. Conncillor Williams: Can't you allow me to speak, Mr. Jones. Alderman Jones: You are taking objection to the Mayor's conduct. Councillor Williams: No, certainly not, I support the Mayor as loyally as you. Alderman Jones: Why mention this then? The Mayor I object to what you are saying, Mr. Williams, but I can't say anything. Councillor Williams The Surveyor said certain things were essential, but the Council, by the casting vote of the Mayor, rejected his suggestions, and now Mrs. James gets her renewal without doing what the Surveyor thinks is essential. MISCELLANEOUS. An application by the Rev. H. D. Williams for a renewal of a lease of his property called Moreb House, Bath-street, was referred to the Finance Committee. Councillor Williams said that the residents in Victoria-terrace were anxious to know when it was intended to place the shrubs there this year, and he was glad to learn from the Surveyor that it was to be done that day. A letter from the Llanbadarn District Council with reference to a water supply project, was referred to the Public Works Committee,

CAPEL MADOG. OBITUARY.—We regret to announce the death of Mr. John Lewis (Ap Cledan.) He died last Sunday very suddenly whilst on a visit to his son at Bleanpennal. Much sympathy is shown to his widow and children in their grief. Mr. Lewis will be long remembered in this neighbourhood as a lover of prose and poetry. The remains of our old friend will be interred at Capel Madognext Friday. ° COMPETITIVE MEETIXG. The annual com- petitive meeting was held at the above place on Jbriday last. The adjudicators were: Sinking Mr. D. J. Morgan, A.C., Bow Street; poetry prose, etc., Rev. R. Gwpiryn Jones, Capel Dewi: air, Mr. John Lewis (Ap Cledan), Capel Madog. The chair, in the absence of Mr. James Jones, Swansea, was ably filled by the Rev. John Williams, Goginan. The secretary was Mr. R. Lewis, Darven. All the above gentlemen did their work satis- factorily. The proceedings were as follows:- Address by the Chairman addresses by the bards, viz., Ap Cledan and Daniel Jones, Lnllwyd; solo for boys under 16, 1st prize divided between D. D. Richards and D. L. Tibbott, iiadog. Recita- tion for children under 12. Yr Elephant gwyn," 1st prize, J. Ll. Evans, Penparciau; solo for girls under 16, "Wyres Fach Ned Puw," 1st prize divided between M. E. Richards and M. Evans, Goginan; reading at first sight for children under 15, 1st prize divided between M. E. Richards and K. C. Tibbott, Madog; Pren gwrit," 1st prize, W. Evans, Penparciau; Dadl, 1st prize, E. Tibbott and K. E. Tibbott; walking stick, 1st prize, H. M. Evans, Goginan solo tenor, Morfa Rhuddlan," 1st prize, H. M. Evans, Goginan poetry, 1st prize divided between E. Tibbott and A. Jones, Salem; reading at first sight for those in age, best, E. Tibbott, Madog: solo bass, Pinacl Anrhydedd," 1st prize awarded to W. Hughes, Penybont'; letters from a child from London to his parents, best, E. Tibbott, Madog; araeth, no award; Llwy bren," 1st prize divided between John Jones, Capel Dewi, and J, Griffiths, Penlan; recitation for those in age, Y Demhestl ar y Mor," Mr. R. Lewis and Miss E. J. Jones, equal; duett, "Y Ddau Forwr," M. Evans and friend, The above brought a very pleasant evening to a successful close.

ABERDOVEY. BATHING.—New bathing machines have at last been placed on the sands by the bathing place, and are well patronised by visitors and residents. METEOROLOGICAL REPORT for the week ending June 17th, as issued by Captain Edwards. Bright sunshine, 79-1 hours; maximum temperature, 69; sunset, 57; rain, nil. RAIN.—Never was rain more welcome than on Sunday last, the long continued drought had done serious harm to the gardens and hay, and the out- look for good crops was gloomy. VISITORS.—A large number still continue to arrive, and it is generally admitted that never has there been so many here before in June. It is to be hoped that the season will last longer than usual. TEMPERANCE.—A well attended meeting of the Temperance party was held at the Hall on Sunday night, when stirring addresses were delivered by the Revs. J. Owen, Mold, and J. Williams, Dol- gelley, The Rev. J. Owen is the former of the temperance meetings at Aberdovey. NEW BRIDGE.—The Cleveland Bridge Co., Z, of Darlington, have completed the new bridge by Bodfer-terrace, for the Cambrian Railway. A large gang of men started pulling down the old bridge on Sunday after the mail passed over, and worked at it all day. but failed to clear it in time for the new bridge to be used the same evening, the consequence was, that the passengers and mails by the night mail, had to be conveyed in vehicles from the station to another train that was waiting by the cutting. Scores of people watched the fixinsr of the new bridcrp A WELSH WELCOME.—On Tuesday evening, a public meeting was held at the Hall to consider the question of presenting an address of welcome to the Right Rev. Lord Bishop of Bangor on his taking up his residence in the neighbourhood. The meeting was convened by the Rev. W. M. Roberts and Captain Enoch Lewis at the suggestion of the Aberdovey members of the District Council. There was a fairly large attendance, representing all the different denominations. Amongst those present were the Rev. J. Rowlands, Vicar; Rev. W. M. Roberts, Mr. E. Rowlands, Liverpool House; Mr. E. Jones Smith, Dr. Irvine Bonner, Messrs. W. J. Eves, W. Jones Hughes, R. Ff. Williams, J. Evans (Chemist), J. Hughes Jones, and John Evans, Draper. It was proposed by Mr. E. Rowlands, and seconded by Captain Lewis, that the Rev. J. Row- lands, Vicar, should act as chairman. The Rev. gentleman opened the proceedings by reading the notices sent out to convene the meeting. He said that he was pleased to see so many present repre- senting all creeds and political opinions. He also said that it was only right and proper that the Bishop, considering his position, should be re- ceived amongst the inhabitants by some public recognition irrespective of creed or politics. He hoped that all this should be forgotten and sunk, and that everybody should make every endeavour to carry everything through smoothly, thus showing to his Lordship that they as inhabitants appreciated his presence amongst them. Rev. W. M. Roberts read a letter of regret from Dr. Kershaw stating his inability to be present. The following were named on the Committee to make all necessary arrange- ments :-Chairman, Rev. John Rowlands, M.A., Vicar; Treasurer, Alderman J. Hughes Jones, J.P.; Hon. Secretaries, Rev. W. M. Roberts, M.A., and Captain E. Lewis Assistant Hon. Secretaries, Mr. E. L. Rowlands and Mr. John Evans, (Chemist). Committee: Dr. Bonner, Messrs. J. M. Howell, M. A. Lewis, J. E. Jones, D. Hughes, W. Jones Hughes, Richard Roberts, Edward Jones, John Evans, Griffith Davies, Z. Jones, Evan Davies, W. J. Eves, W. D. Evans, J. W. Morgan, John Thomas, J. Hen- dries, J. Davies, Phillip Evans, John Davies, H. H. Clayton, R. O. Richards, Ernest Richards, Humph- rey Rowlands, Henry Green, R. Ff. Williams, John Edwards, jun., Lewis Edwards, John Bell, J. E. Morris, Lewis Jones, William Rowlands, J. S. Rawson, Hugh Griffiths, Captain John Evans, J. Edwards, Nicholls. Rev. W. M. Roberts pro- posed a vote of thanks to the Vicar for presiding, and said he was extremely pleased at the good number present. It spoke well for the good feeling that prevailed amongst all parties in the parish, and he trusted that everything would be carried out without a hitch. He could testify after 20 years' acquaintance with the Bishop, that both he and Mrs. Williams are always ready and willing to do anything that they possibly can for the place and people that claimed their presence as neighbours. Apart from all tllio he could assure them that the fact of the Bishop coming to reside at Panteidal Hall had been the means of bringing Aberdovey to the notice of the public.—The meeting was ad- journed till Tuesday week (27th).

London Letter. {FROM OUR OWN CORP-ESPONDENT.1 London, Wednesday Afternoon. THE TRANSVAAL. The crisis in the Transvaal, as I predicted, is simmering down. Brummagem Joe has once more been caught at his old tricks. He thought he was very smart in using Sir Alfred Milner as his tool, but he has been found out in time, and his little game has been spoilt. Just think what it meant. He sent Sir Alfred Milner to the Cape two years ago, amid the acclamations of men of all parties. Sir Alfred was known to be a man of cool judgment and impartial mind. He was looked upon as the very man to allay the racial prejudices which threatened to divide the British dominion in the Cape. He succeeded in keeping up his part admira- bly till a month or two ago. On May 4th he sent an inflammatory despatch to Mr. Chamberlain, accusing the Boers of all sorts of things, and the Dutchmen at the Cape of disloyalty to the British crown. This despatch was not published at the time. Shortly after a conference was arranged between Sir Alfred and President Kruger. That conference, for some reason or another, failed. Immediately after, the despatch of May 4th was published in this country and at the Cape. THE EXPLANATION. Why should this be done ? The answer is plain. Mr. Chamberlain had calculated that the people of this country would be excited at the break down of the Conference, and would call out for strong measures. But lo and behold! instead of getting excited, the British people took it all with the most exasperating coolness. Nothing was left but to publish Sir Alfred's old despatch. That was Mr. Chamberlain's trump card. But even this fell flat. Instead of turning upon Mr. Kruger, the shrewd electors of this country began to demand the recall of Sir Alfred Milner. A nice mess Mr. Joseph has made of things! Even his old supporters in the Press have fallen away from him. Some few-I regret that the Liberal Daily News is among them- still try to save Sir Alfred Milner from the worst consequences of his reckless folly; but even they are losing heart. The Edin- burgh election—where the Liberals won a great victory-shows that the flowing tide" is once more against force and aggression, and coercion. Within a week or two, I believe, we shall capture Oldham from the Tories. Everywhere the country is rising against this Government of force and fraud, of robbery at home and oppression abroad, of tyranny to the weak, and truckling to the strong. THE REST OF THE SESSION. Mr. Balfour informed the House of Commons on Monday what the Government intended to do during the rest of the Session. The one big and interesting Bill will be the Clerical Tithes Bill, that is, if the Government have the courage to go on with it, which I doubt. That precious Bill means that the parsons, who toil not, neither do they spin for the tithes, are to be relieved of the necessity of paying local rates. Sir Michael Hicks-Beach was for a long time against this concession to an un- fortunate crowd, but at last he has given in. Still, few believe the Bill can become law. It will be fought to the death. Sir Henry Bannerman has warned Mr. Balfour that the Radicals will oppose it tooth and nail, and that they will obstruct every other business. The Welsh Members, led by Mr. Lloyd George, will offer it sternuous and minute opposition. In the face of this determined attitude, probably Mr. Balfour will withdraw the Bill, and say to his dis- appointed clerical friends, You see, gentle- men, we did the best we could for you. We introduced a fine Bill, but these terrible Radicals, and especially these truculent Welshmen, made it impossible for us to pass it." And as the Tories are sure in advance of the parsons' votes, it won't matter one bit. MR. LLOYD GEORGE. Your readers will know already of the triumphant vindication of Mr. Lloyd George's honour in the Divorce Court on Friday last. I was there throughout the whole ludicrous proceedings, and I venture to say that never has any public or private man had to endure such causeless torture as Mr. Lloyd George has been put through for nearly three years. A woman whose charac- ter is now sufficiently patent accused him of adultery, at a time when he was out of the country on a visit to South America. For a time, her Confession "-which she now admits was false and forced—was believed in by her husband, who commenced divorce proceedings. Finding that he had not a tittle of evidence against Mr. George, he asked the Judge to allow him to withdraw every allegation against him. This the Judge, after considering the evidence care- fully for weeks, allowed, and the husband proceeds against another man, a Mr. Wilson. The day of the trial arrives. By that time the husband had come across certain letters which were written by the wife to a young man whose name was never mentioned. In these letters she asks her dear to come to see her when her husband was away from home. The letters are shown to Mr. Inderwick, her counsel, and Mr. Arthur Hughes, her solicitor, both of whom advise her not to fight the case further. She agrees, and a decree nisi is given for divorce. During the proceedings the false 'confession' is read, but the Judge and counsel agree in exonerating Mr. Lloyd George entirely and absolutely. Still, the name is mentioned and certain charitable people shake their heads. Then see what happens. The Queen's Proctor refuses to intervene, but Dr. Beddoes of Aberystwyth, taking advan- tage of an anomalous practice which exists, does a thing which, I believe, has not been done for forty years. He, a private person, intervenes to prevent the decree being made absolute. THE RESULT. On Friday last the intervention came before the Court, and a more miserable exhibition of futile charges cannot be imagined. The case hopelessly and utterly broke down. What object Dr. Beddoes had in acting as he did I do not know or care. What he did succeed in doing was to expose to the world the frailties and wickedness of this most unhappy woman, and to exculpate still further the character of Mr. Lloyd George. The Judge emphatically said that no one had accused or was accusing Mr. George, and he left the court not only with- out a stain upon his character, but with the sympathy of all decent men. He has been tried as if by fire, and he has come out unscathed. His enemies have done their worst, but he has borne the severe scrutiny of a Court of Justice without flinching and without discredit. At the same time, it is not easy to imagine what he has suffered during these last three years of terrible anguish and suspense. One thing, I hope, is certain. The severity of the trial has endeared him to the hearts of the Welsh people. He has fought their battle bravely and unflinchingly throughout his time. He has made no attempt to curry favour with his political foes; he has not tried to burke inquiry by dropping his principles. It is only fair to add that the Tories have acted most generously and honourably in this matter. The warmest expressions of sympathy and congratulations have come from their ranks,—both locally and in Parliament. Wales has never been served by a more honest, loyal, and honour- able politician. He is to-day the one man in her service who has displayed the gifts of generalship. I trust and believe that the effect of this triumphant vindication of his character will be that Wales will recognise in him her worthy and supreme leader, and that she will repay by her devotion and love the awful anguish and suffering which he has undergone in her cause.

LAMPETER. NEW BAPTIST CHAPEL.—This chapel is to be formally opened on 4th and 5th July, when the Revs ? idvaua0rs'icrdi^; w- ffffi l lUffiniS y; and Aaron Morgan, Blaen- • i fficiate. Amongst the subscriptions re- ceived are two sums of £ 50 each from Mrs Rees Elder Cottage, and £ 25 from Mr. D. Rees.71L S' ^700 anH tv!rG' ThC t0tal C0st 0f the chaPel is about telted remains only about £ 150 to be col- q,Co-«jE?E SCHOOL.—Mr. James Jones, The Hi eh Sheriff for Cardiganshire, has contributed £ 10 q £ scholarship fund of the St. David s College School. His predecessor, Sir James W Szlumper, did the same. w' F Ifd Cha"ce!lor has appointed Mr. D. c, n a Commissioner to administer oaths in the Supreme Court of Judicature Mr Lloyd was admitted in 1892, BuiLDiNG OPERATIONS.—There is good prospect of employment in the. town for a considerable number of men for some time. Besides u-i.nf foundation for a villa by the Bridge in St" He has also secured the contract for thHrertion of two semi-detacned villas on Cae Edmunds in Bridge- street tor our respected townsman AWC-J T S Megicks andD. J Merid, S'f' James gaUcKIT '°r SiteS '°r t"° Vi'ras XieAS^e Js- hire servants now for love nor money, and the o'd sickle and scythe are, therefore, useless The. inUe ta mi»rate t0 the towns, and it is this fact that accounts tor the brisk demaiid this year again on the local agents for costly mow W machines, and other agricultural implements. A few y ars ago, when haylwas very scarce, the pockets of local farmers were drained of thousands of pounds to pay for supplies drawn by rail from English and enabled to reimburse themselves a little bv the excellent crop of last year. One farrner is forward- ing about fifty tons by rail to Glamorgan this week. CRICKET MATCH.—A very interesting match took place on Saturday afternoon last, on the College School Grounds, between eleven ladies, of whom Mrs. alker, St. David s College, was captain, and eleven members of the college. The ladies nlavpri with bats, but the gentlemen had to play with broomsticks, and to use the left hand only At 4 p.m. proceedings were suspended for refreshments, after which hostilities were renewed. A dispute having arisen as to whether a certain lady had been fairly caught out, and the umpire being'in a fix, it was decided to adjourn to Saturday next, when the umpire s decision will be given, and the match will be concluded. CY.MANFAGANU.-Tlie Independents of Soar, Bethel, Rh>dybont, IJrynteg, Llangybi, Llanfair, Cellan Troedyrhiw, Ty nygwndwn, Cilcenin and Ffaldy- brenin, held their annual singing festival (" cymanfa ganu ) at Soar, Lampeter on Thursday. The date had been originally fixed for June 9th, but owing to other events ciaslnng OIl this date, it was postponed till Thursday The attendance was not as large as usual, Thursday being an awkward day in this dis- trict. The conductor was Mr. T. Glvndwr Richards, and the accompanists Miss Thomas, College-street, and Mr. D. J. Gilbert, Gwerroyle, all of whom acquitted themselves most satisfactorily. The morn- riing meeting, which was a rehearsal, commenced at 1U.5U. Ihe evening meeting commenced at 5 30 under the presidency of the Rev. J. T. Parry, Cil- cenin, and the following hymns were gone through Emyn Hwyrol, Dyfryedd Siloah, York, &c., and the anthem;" O'r dyfnder y llefais," which was rendered in admirable style. After votes of thanks had been accorded the conductor and the accompanists the meetings terminated. OBITUARY.—On Tuesday last Mr. David Evans, of Manglas Parm (in the parish of Pcncarreg), near this town, passed peaceably away after a few days' ill- ness, at the ripe old age of 100 years and 4 months. He had enjoyed very good health all his lifetime, and up to his last illness he had only on two occasions required the services of a medical man, and up to within the last few months he had always shaved himself. He was born at Tyhowel, Pencarreg, in February, 1799. He was in service at various places in and near Pencarreg for about twenty years, three of which he spent with Squire Thomas, of Troedy- rhiw, Llanwenog, the maternal uncle of the popular M.F.H., Mr. T. H. R. Hughes, of euadd fawr. After his twenty years' hard work as a farm servant, Mr. Evans married Mary Jones, daughter of the then tenant of Manglas farm. On the death of his father- in-law he took the farm of Manglas, where he has lived ever since, first under General Wood, and after- wards under Mr. D. Lloyd, solicitor, the present owner. He had twelve children, three of whom are still living. One is Mr. Evan Evans, the famous preacher and lecturer, who is better known as "Deheudir," and is now in his 68th year. With re- gard to the old man's mode of life, his staple food in his younger days was oatmeal cake and cheese and barley bread-no wheaten bread. He took only three meals breakfast at eight, dinner at two, and supper at eight. He worked hard all his lifetime, and was never worried either by poverty or wealth. He never had a serious quarrel with anyone, and never did anyone an ill turn, and he used to assert that he never was intoxicated in his life. This is a short account of David Evans who, having spent over 100 years in this world (on the banks of the Teifi), was able to enjoy life to the last.

TREFEIRIG. SCHOOL BOARD.—The ordinary monthly meeting of the board was held on Tuesday, at the Board School, when there were present the Rev. D. C. Davies (presiding). Rev. H. Evans, and Mr. David James, together with Mr. William James (clerk), and Mr. J. R. Jones (attendance officer). The usual cheques were drawn for salaries. The Attendance Officer presented his monthly report. The attendance was considered fair, but the members thought it could be much better. The Clerk informed the board that no tenders had been received for constructing the porches at the school, and he was instructed to see Mr. Jones (Dole) concerning the matter. The Clerk also reported that the agreement between Sir Pryse Pryse, Bart., and the board in reference to the pro- posed water supply would shortly be ready, and it was decided to let the matter stand over in the meantime. The board decided to allow the school to be closed during the first week in July, the usual holidays to come later on. Various articles of apparatus for use in the school were ordered to be obtained. The Rev. D. C. Davies proposed, and the wl Kev. 11. Evans seconded, the following resolution, which was passed unanimously" That this board expresses its deepest regret at losing by death one of its respected members, Mr. John Lewis (Ap Cledan), and offers its sincerest condolence with the bereaved family." Xo other business of public interest was done.

SHIPPING NEWS. — •+> Of Local Interest. SS. Feliciana arrived at Deptford, June 14th. SS Glantivy left Deptford for Hull, June 20th. SS. Glenvech loading at Cardiff. SS. Glanhafren sailed for Venice. SS. Venus left Odessa for Rotterdam, June 1st. SS. Isle of Anglesey left Newport, 15tli June, for Barcelona. SS. Isle of Caldy left Portman, 19th June, for Maryport. SS. Isle of Ramsey arrived at Penarth, 17th June.

THE MARKETS. ABERYSTWYTH.—MONDAY. Wheat made 5s Od to 5s 6d per 65 lbs; barley, 3s 6d to 4s Od; white oats, 3s to Os Od black oats, 2s. 9d. to Os Od. Eggs, 10 for 6d. Salt butter, 9d to Od per lb.; fresh butter, 19d. to Od. Fowls were sold at 3s 6d to 4s per couple, chickens 4s. to 5s. Ducks, 4s Od to 5s per couple. Old Potatoes, 3s per cwU New Potatoes, 2d per lb. BUTTER. CARMARTHEN, Saturday.—There was a good supply of butter in the market to-day, which sold at from 8d to 8id per lb; basket butter, 8d to 9d per lb. CORK, Saturday.—Frsts, 80s per cwt; seconds, 78s; thirds, 77s; Superfine firkins, 85s; choicest boxes, 82s choice boxes, 76s. Kegs Thirds, 74s..Number of firkins, 532.

Birtfrs, marriages and Deaths. MARRIAGES. ADAMS—DAVIES.—15th inst., by licence, at the Baker- street Congregational Chapel, in the presence of the Registrar (Mr. J. J. Hughes), Rev. Richard Gam Adams, Gwaencacgurwen, Llanguick, Pontardawer to Miss Ellen Davies, Penrhiw, Talybont. EDWARDS-VAUC, RAN. -20tli inst., at the Registry Office, Aberystwyth, by the Registrar (Mr. J. J, Hughes), Mr. John Edwards to Miss Elizabeth Jane Vaughan, both of Tafarnfagal, rarcel-canol. Printed and Published by the Proprietor, GEORGE REES, at the WELSH GAZETTE" Printeries. Bridge-street, Aberystwyth, in the County of Cardigan, Thursday, June 22nd, 1899.