Welsh Gazette and West Wales Advertiser

ABERYSTWYTH. Aberystwyth is crowded. A well-known resident, who knows as much about the place as anyone, has been heard to predict a record season." It remains to be seen whether he is an infallible prophet, but all the signs indicate a phenomenally good, if not a unique, season; and if things go on as at present—and there is no reason why they should not—our boarding-house keepers and hotel proprietors will be in the mood for singing psalms and blowing trumpets two months hence. Thus far the season has not been marred by any untoward accidents, and it is satisfactory to know that the utmost precautions are being taken in every way to prevent occurrences such as make many other places scenes of woe. The per- formance of The Little Minister "J. M. Barrie's masterpiece—at the Pier Pavilion has drawn good houses, albeit a captious critic might say with reason that it is not of a sufficiently rollicking character to take on at the seaside among holiday makers. Of course, the book has undergone great changes in the process of dramatization the pathos has been diminished and the fun accentuated but, for all that, it is not the piece that makes you hold your sides with laughter from beginning to end. A great attraction during the holidays has been the Cricket matches. The CevedigiQU Club are to b V on having arranged such A splendid list. Aberystwyth could do worse 1 than enter with more enthusi^r-m into the great summer pastime. On Saturday the Club played Newtown, and on Saturday next they will have a visit from the Royal Welsh Warehouse, Newtown, rfr.

.0 ABERDOVEY. The inhabitants of Aberdovey—i.e., the permanent residents—are in a state of high glee just now in fact, it is doubtful whether there has been known such an elation of feelings or such a display of joy ever since Aberdovey began to drift out of the obscurity of a little seaside village and glide into the full-blown fame of a health resort. The cause is simple enough. The town has never before been so full of visitors Every house is "swarmed" with them, and every train continues daily to deposit on the platform 146 more of 'em." Large families have taken —and are taking—apartments for long C, periods, so that it is expected that at the end of the season every housewife will proudly jingle her pockets in the face of the rent collector, and ask, with an independent air, Anything I can do for you ?" The weather has been glorious for golf, and the devotees of that delightful game have been having an ideal time of it. Our motto is Advance, Aberdovey and our motto will never be belied.

ABERAYRON. The sports" drew an enormous crowd to the town last week again, and the gathering t, el was favoured by splendid weather. The syndicate will no doubt reap a fine profit this year. The 11 carriage bach is pretty n u busy these days, plying with passengers across the river. The Urban District Council has taken a wise and timely stsp to prevent the overcrowding of boats. ||

TOWYN. What with Volunteers and I-Dowe-,trs" and a town full of visitors Towyn was never sso busy. The rain has done a world of good. The roads have been swept clean, and are now in excellent condition for cycling. Notwithstanding the increased accommodation all the apartments were let during the week, which speaks volumes for the growing popularity of Towyn.

TALYLLYN LAKE. The picturesque and secluded hamlet of Talyllyn has been a favourite resort with tourists and anglers for generations. Cader Idris attracts the tourist, and the Lake the angler. For a quiet holiday among the hills, Talyllyn is an ideal place. The scenery around the Lake and in the narrow vale below in exceedingly beautiful. Several Members of Parliament patronize the place annually, and at the present time Mr. Stedman, M.P., and his family are staying here. Thousands of day excursionists visit Talyllyn every year from Aberystwyth, Barmouth, and other places on the coast. Mr. Thomas Lloyd, the obliging host of Penybont Hotel will gladly furnish visitors and tourists with all information as to routes and places of interest.

LLANDRINDOD WELLS. Llandrindod Wells is evidently growing in popularity as well as in size year by year. N ever before was the famous Welsh Spa so I well patronized as during the present season. During the week all the principal hotels and boarding establishments have been crowded with visitors. More seats are badly wanted in the Park, and the Council would do well to pay some attention to the planting of more trees and shrubs in the immediate vicinity of the town. Why not place seats on the wooded bank above the lake; they would be much appreciated by visitors on these hot and sultry days. The canoes and boats on the lake are well patronized. A small landing stage at the further end of the Lake would be an acquisition.

';DI<"JW:a" ABERYSTWYTH. Rural District Council. A meeting of the Council was held at the Union Workhouse on Monday, when there were present: Mr. John Morgan, Cwmrheidol, chairman; Messrs. Edward Jones, J. B. Morgan, Cynullmawr, Richard James, Henllys, W. A. Miller, Issayndre, James Jones, Llanbadarn lower, Thomas Powell, Llan- fihangel-upper, Evan Richards, Llanfihangel-lower, E. J. Evans, Llangwyryfon, Daniel Morris, Llanilar, David Edwards, L lanila r, Evan Lewis, Llanham inog, Charles Davies, Llanychaiarn, J. E. James, Melin- dwr. Richard Davies, Trefeirig, with Mr. David Davies, assistant clerk, and Mr. John Rowlands, Inspector. The Clerk read the minutes of the last meeting. An objection was raised by Mr. J. B. Morgan to having the matter of Clettwr Bridge on the min- utes, which was settled at an adjourned meeting. Mr. J. B. Morgan contended that at the adjourned meeting other business than that relating to Clettwr Bridge was discussed, and was therefore out of order. On being put to the vote, Mr. Mor- gan's objection was carried, and the entry in the minute book was erased. BRIDGE COMMITTEE'S REPORT. At the last meeting of the Council a special Committee was appointed to inspect and report on the site of a new bridge at Llangwyryfon. Plans of the new bridge were now submitted, and Mr. Davies brought a report. He said that the Com- mittee were of opinion that the site for the bridge was suitable. The bridge would be built of stone at a cost of £51. Mr. J. B. Morgan objected to the building of the bridge. He said that one bridge was enough at a time, and that it was not fair to the Union that they should go on building so many bridges Pt the same time, as it would mean a great deal of expense. He pro- posed that a Committee be appointed to look into all applications for new bridges, and see where they were most needed was seconded. Mr. ^avl*s moveu as an amendment that the Council should go on building the bridges, viz. a bridge at Melindwr, near Maes bangor, and the Beido Bridge, at Llangwyryfon. Mr. D. Richards also thought that the Council should proceed with the bridges. Mr. Miller concurred with Mr. Richards. He saw no reason for delay, especially as they had gone so far in the matter. Mr. James Jones agreed that they should do all in their power to improve the district, but that they were going too strong in building all the bridges at once. The matter was put to the vote, and 5 voted for the original pro- position, and 8 for the amendment, which was therefore carried. With regard to Llangwyryfon Bridge Mr. James proposed, and Mr. Davies seconded, that they should proceed with the bridge on the understanding that the County Council should pay one third of the cost, and the Rural District Council do all the carting. The cost would then be £31. This was passed. There were two estimates to hand for the building of the Melindwr bridge, viz. the Eagle Foundry, iE85, and 1 z7, Williams and Metcalfe, £ 95. The Surveyor's estimate for carting, stones, &.c., was £ 22 12s. Od. Mr. James volunteered to collect E15 towards it. Mr. James Jones objected to building the bridge, and proposed that it be left for a year. Mr. Richard Davies seconded. But on being put to the vote it was passed that the bridge should be done. Mr. J. B. Morgan gave notice of a motion that the Clerk should receive loans for carrying out the work, to spread for 30 years. zD INSPECTOR'S REPORT. The Inspector reported that he had served notices upon all the owners and occupiers at Cambrian-terrace, Borth, to abate a nuisance arising from the covered wooden trough, into which the overflow from the cesspools empties itself, being in an offensive state, which was injurious to health, and a nuisance. In reference to this matter, the Clerk had received a letter from Messrs. Roberts and Evans, Solicitors, dated 2nd August, which was as follows :— This morning we were consulted by the tenants of Cambrian-terrace, Borth, with reference to summonses issued against them by the Inspector, Mr. John Rowlands, which are returnable at Talybont Petty Sessions on August 3rd. The summonses were only issued yesterday, and as several important questions are involved wnich require some time to inquire into, it is obvious that the Justices cannot deal with the summonses at the above sessions. We should therefore feel obliged if you would consent to an adjournment of the summonses, to enable us to look into the whole question, and to confer with our clients. It appears to us that if the tenants of Cambrian-terrace disconnected their cesspool with the drain, the mischief would be aggravated, and although the objection so far as the trough is concerned, might thereby be removed, greater difficulties would arise by severing the connection. If an adjournment takes place, we hope to have an opportunity of going into the question fully with you to endeavour to arrive at an arrangement satisfactory both to our clients and to the District Conncil, and so far as we can see nothing will be gained by pressing on the present summonses. We feel sure that the Justices would, upon an explanation of the circumstances, at once grant the adjournment we require, and to avoid a journey to Talybont, we hope you will see your way to content to an adjourn- ment." Mr. Miller proposed, and it was carried, that the matter be put on the table, unt 1 some arrangement had been arrived at. The Clerk also reported that in accordance with directions he had received, he met Messrs. Miller and Simon at Waunfawr, with a view of providing water supply for the inhabitants, and it was arranged that 1| in. 4 galvanized pipe should be laid, the distance from the source of the spring to Mr. E. H. Davies' house oeing 404 yards. The estimate was P-40, Mr. Miller asked if the consent of the landowner had been given to carry out the work. The Inspector replied in the negative. Mr. Miller then proposed that the Clerk should write to the landower asking his permission. He said they could not proceed without his consent. It was finally passed that the Clerk should write to the landowner, who was away in London. The Inspector produced a letter he had received from the owner of Alltg-ochymynydd in which they stated that they were at once going to carry out the repairs at the above farm, and that it had already been put in the hands of a builder, PENTRELLWYN WATER SUPPLY, Mr. Daniel Morris brought this matter forward. He said that there had been numerous complaints as to the scarcity of water, at this place. He pro- posed that a resolution be passed that pipes be laid down for the supply of water. The cost of the work would be recovered by the levying of a water rate from the owners of houses at Pentrellwvn within the rateablearea. There had been a scheme sug- gested some years ago, but it had fallen through. The pipes would be two inch cast-iron pipe, and the total cost would be about £148. Mr. J, B. Morgan seconded, and proposed that using the water should pay for it. The Inspector said there were 23 houses. After a little further discussion, Mr. Morri's motion was passed. Mr. Daniel Morris also proposed, and Mr. E. J. Evans seconded, that the Clerk should prepare a water rate to be assessed on the net annual value of the property in Pentrellwyn such rate to defray the cost of main- taining the water supply. LLANBADARN FAWR. It was decided that the Clerk should prepare a list of the houses in Llanbadarn, in order to pre- pare a water rate for the village, to be assessed on the net annual value of the property of owners and customers, for defraying the cost of maintaining the water supply for Llanbadarn Farm. WATER RIGHTS. Water rights and way leaves bad been granted from Miss Lewis and others, over certain lands in the parish of Cyfoethybrenin, for the purpose of increasing the water supply of Borth. The Clerk explained that the deed was ready, but that the plan had not been returned by Miss Lewis to whom it had been sent for approval. LEVEL CROSSING AT LLAXFIHANGEI,. A communication was received from the Board of Trade offices, enclosing a letter from the Cambrian Railway Company, which was a reply to a letter written from the Board of Trade offices with refer- ence to the level crossing at Llanfihangel. Mr. Denniss' letter was as follows :—In reply to your letter of the 21st inst on the subject of a level crossing near Llanfihangel station, I have to state with reference to a communication from the Coun- cil, attachad to your letter, that the several com- plaints made during the last two years or so have been dealt with promptly on receipt, with a view of removing any occasion for a recurrence. Within that period an extra porter has been employed at the station, in order thatsuch inconvenience com- plained of might be reduced to a minimmm. The crossing is close to the station platform and goods yard, and the station-master and all other employ- ees of the Company have special instructions to watch the gates continually, and I believe that at the present time no reasonable occasion for complaint exists. As to the number of persons making use of the crossing, the Company employed a watchman during each day of a week in October last to count the number of persons and vehicles, etc., passing over the crossing, and it was on the basis of this statement that the remark in my letter on the 5th ult was made. The Company do not consider that the road traffic passing over the crossing necessities their carrying out the sugges- tion that a person should be set apart by the Com- pany to open and close the gates. The statement made by the Clerk to the District Council that such a person is appointed at similar crossings on the railway is not correct. If any person at any time should be inconvenienced by being detained at the crossings gates, owing to there being no person there to let them through, and particu'ars _===-= promptly sent to the Superintendent at Oswestry or myself, proper notice would be taken of the matter, but the Company are given to understand that the present complaint has been somewhat laboured. I have referred to sections of the Acts of Parliament to which you call my attention, and have to rurtlier state that the Company is prepared to carry out the objections which are thereby imposed. It was decided that the Clerk should write to the Cambrian Railway Company pointing out that there are not sufficient employees at the place, especially at this time of the year.

Uniuersitp College, ABERYSTWYTH. Early College Recollections. By MR. JOHN DAVIES, LIVERPOOL. V. THE LIVERPOOL MEETING, OCT. 31ST, 1873. The chair was taken by his worship the Mayor in all the panoply of office, and on the platform were the following gentlemen, Sir Robert Cunliffe, Bart, M.P., Mr. Samuel Holland, M.P., Mr. William Rathbone, M.P., Rev. John Griffith (Rector of Neath), Rev. Owen Thomas, Rev. Richard Lumley, Rev. John Jones. Kirkdale: Dr. E. Jones, Wrexham; Dr. Gee, Dr. David Jones, Messrs. W. S. Caine, John Roberts, J.P., D. P. Davies, J. Foulkes Roberts (Manchester), Robert Roberts, E. Pugh, Hugh Owen (London), John Davies, W. O. Elias, J. It Jones, W. Jones, Thomas Gee, junior, Thomas Jones. As Hon. Secretary I was called upon to read the letters of r for non-attendance which had been received, The Premier's secretary wrote "Jl reply to yout letter of the 16th inst, written on be- half of the University College of Wales, Mr. Gladstone desires me to express his great regret, that while he is very sensible of the public spirit with which the promoters have engaged themselves "jant (ause. be will be unable to have the pleasure taking part in the meeting to be t.iv; 51st- inst." Letters were also received from Lord Aberdare, Lord Derby, Lord Hanmer, Lord Penrhyn. Lord Clarence Paget, Lord Sandon, M.P., the Archdeacon of York, the Bishop of St. Asaph, the Dean of Chester, Henry Richard, M.P., George Osborne Morgan, M.P., Love Jones-Parry, M.P., Sir Watkin Williams-Wynn, M P., Samuel Morley, M.P., Watkin Williams, M.P., Sir Thomas Davies-Lloyd, M.P., George Mellv, M.P., and Sir Llewellyn Turner. The Premier's communication elicited land ap- plause, and was commented upon by subsequent speakers as an augury that the College would at no remote period obtain recognition and assistance at the hands of the Government. Another letter which was exceedingly well received was that of Sir Thomas D. Lloyd, Bart,, of Bronwydd. The Mayor' opening speech was a model of conciseness, couched in excellent taste, and con- cluded with a vigorous appeal for support to so noble an object, not from Welshmen alone, but from all who were interested in the higher educa- tion of the people. Mr. Hugh Owen then gave an interesting account of the financial position of the College up to that date. The account embraced a history of the movement to establish a University College in Wales from its origination in 1863. This move-. ment, ite said, led to the purchase of the present College premises at Aberystwyth, in 1867, which were opened as a University College in October 1872. The total sum which had been raised from the 9tk. December 1863 to the 30th June 1873 was £ 15026 17s Od. The outstanding liability on the 30th June last was L7360 lis 3d which consisted (f the balance of the College purchase money. Of the sums promised from the 9tb January 1863 to the 30t'i June 1871 and still .catstanding, it was believed that the < c 23500 was still available. The sum- p: ,n..se:l he 1st July,1871 to the30th June 73 ;1 still outstanding amounted to about -!P I £ 11,000, making the total amount promised and not paid about £ 14,500. The work which the committee had charged then sdlves to do in the future, was the raisins: of a fund of ESO.000 in all, for the purpose in the first place, of paying oif the building debt, whereby the interest accruing annually on the principal would be extinguished. In the next place the committee proposed providing an endowment for the permanent maintenance of the institution. Of the £14.500 promised but not yet paid, P,4000 formed part of the guarantee fund, and was applicable to meet the current expenses of the institution for the next two years. The remainder was applicable to the building and endowment fund. He added that a cheque had recently been received for £1000 so that now the outstanding liability was reduced to £ 63"0. The Mayor announced that Messrs. David Jones and Co., Strand-street, Liverpool, had sent him intimation of their intention to contribute an additional £100 to what they had already given. He had also received a communication from a Liverpool Welshman who had already subscribed £ 400 and who said he had great pleasure in adding another donation of 9600, making his contribution what he intended it should be, viz., £ 1,000. The announcement evoked great applause, and it was a sight to see the gleam of satisfaction which lit up Mr. Hugh Owen's countenancc. The next speaker whom the Mayor called upon was Sir Robert Cunliffe. Bart., M.P., who moved a resolution pledging the meeting to renewed exertions to raise a fund of E50,000 for the purpose of clearing off the building debt and endowing the College. The inspiriting speech of the worthy baronet gave an impetus to the proceedings which reached its climax in the eloquent speech of the Rector of Neath, who seconded the resolution. Never was the reverend speaker in better form. Every sentence was brimful of words that breathe, and thoughts that burn," and his impassioned appeal to the patriotism of his country- men roused the audience to a high pitch of enthusiasm. The resolution was supported by Mr. William Rathbone, M.P., Mr. T. Holland, M.P., Mr. John Roberts (afterwards M.P. for Flint Boroughs), Mr. W. S. Caine, and other speakers, all of whom made excellent speeches. The usual votes of thanks terminated the meeting which, it is no exaggeration to say, was the largest meeting ever held in connection with Welsh educational matters and the most prolific in the results which followed it. The contributions of Liverpool to the University College of Wales amounted to no less £ 7.575.

YSTUMTUEN. CHAPEL ANNIVERSARY. -On Saturday ant.1 Sun day, the 5th and 6th inst. respectively, the annual preaching services were held at this place, when the Revs. J. Cadvan Davies, Carnarvon, and D. Tecwyn Evans, Bangor College, officiated. There were large congregations present, and it was the testimony of one and all that instructive and p iwerful sermons were delivered throughout this festival. EISTEDDFOD.—On Friday, August 4th, a very successful Eisteddfod was held at this place under the auspices of the Chapel Trustees and others. As intimated in these columns it was an event looked forward to with much interest and anxiety hv the promoters and friends concerned, but thanks to the unflagging energy and Eisteddfodic experience of Mr. E. Hughes, City Road, London, and others of the sons of Tuen in the metropolis, who advised and assisted the local committee, the experiment proved a success beyond the most sanguine expectations. The weather was delightful, and enticed a large crowd to the hills for a half-holiday—a larger influx of people than this retiring neighbourhood has ever received before. The afternoon meeting was presided over in the absence of Mr. Darlington, by Rev. It W. Jones, the resident minister, and conducted in his own inimitable way by the genial and popular Eisteddfodwr Cadvan." Appended is a list of items and winners: Prize drawing, Iorwerth Jones. Post Office, Ponterwyd, Alto solo, Cwynfan Prydain," Miss Nesta Morgan, County School, Aberystwyth. Hazel walking stick, (Hon Gollen). Mr. Daniel Morgan, Goginan. Contralto solo, Dim ond deilen," Miss H. Jones, Van Post Office, Llanidloes. E.ssay on "John the Baptist," Miss Lewis, Erwbarfau, Devil's Bridge, Trio. Duw bvdd drugarog." Mr. D. Evans, London, and party. Tenor solo, "O na byddai'n hM o hyd," Mr. J. H. Meredith, Llanidloes. Englyn, Ci Defaid," D. Jones. B.A., Erwyd Mill. Recitation, '• Gwron y Coneraaugh," 1st prize, Mr. R. A. Davies, London 2nd prize. Miss Morgan. Pontrhydvgroes. Best prize bag, Miss Annie Herbert, London. Male voice party, -4 Hiraeth," prize divided between Trefeirug and Llanidloes. Two medals were given to Mr. D. Mason and Miss C. Davies, the Shop, for the largest number of tickets sold. Baritone solo, Yr Ornest," Mr. Hamer, Llanidloes. Appearing in old Cymric costume, divided between Miss E. Mason, Aber- ystwyth, and Mis« S. Toiies, Llain Cottage. Four ladies' choirs competed on "Clychau Aberdyfi," in the following order: Llanidloes, under the baton of Miss Evans: Trefeirig, led by Miss Evans, Goginan Ystumtuen, led by Mr. John Morgan Goginan, under the leadership of Mr. J. Jones. The prize was awarded to the Llanidloes choir who delighted all by their masterful and finished rendering. The evening meeting was presided over by Mr. E. Hughes, who opened the pro- ceedings with a wise and witty deliverance. The chief event of the (lay now took place, the rendering of "A'r Don o Flaen Gwyntoedd" for a choir of mixed voices. Three choirs competed Trisant choir, under the leadership of Mr. Bonner; Idloes jj -a. choir, under the leadership of Mr. Hamer; Dyffryn Choir, Goginan, conductor, Mr. John Jones. The Llandiloes choir was awarded the prize, while the Trisant choir received a high tribute from the adjudicator and audience. Penillion, Rhoddwch Lawenydd," Mr. S. D. Lloyd, Treherbert. Marwnad to the late Mr. John Morgan, Bwadrain; out of eighteen competitions the award went to Glyn Myfyr, Festiniog. Pryddest to the late Eglwys Bach was awarded to the same winner. Duet, Y Delyn a'r Crwth," Messrs. Hamer and Meredith, Llanidloes. WythaNvd, "Beth sy'n Harcid," went to the Ystumtuen party. The proceedings were brought to a close after the rendering of "Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau" by Mr. Maengwyn Davies, amid the cordial testimony of all to the splendid literary and musical treat of the day. It is estimated that fully twelve hundred persons were present during the day, and that about sixty pounds will be realized. The proceeds will be devoted to the funds of the Wesleyan Chapel in the place. It is also worthy of record that the London friends not only took a warm and active interest in the Eisteddfod but gave material aid by collecting about £35 in the city towards the same object.

FIELD PATHS. In view of the renewed interest that is being taken in public footpaths, we print the following extracts from William Howitt's "Book of the Seasons" first published in 1830. Even then there was need for organisation, and seventy years of silent encroachment has robbed the public of many I a priceless inheritance.—These extracts may help to enhance the value of the rural privileges of the public." I -1 love our real old English footpaths. I love those rustic and picturesque stiles opening their pleasant escapes from fre- quented places and dusty highways into the solitudes of nature. It is delightful to catch a glimpse of one on the old village green, under the old elder-tree by some ancient cottage, or half hidden by the over-hanging boughs of a wood. I love to see the smooth, dry track, winding away in easy curves, along some green slope to the churchyard, to the forest grange, or to the embowered cottage." Stiles and footpaths are vanishing every- where. There is nothing upon which the advance of wealth and population has made so serious an inroad. As land has increased in value, wastes and heaths have been par- celled out and enclosed, but seldom have footpaths been lef1. The poet and the nat- uralist, who befoi <} had, perhaps, the greatest real property in them, have had no allotment. They have been totally driven out of the promised land." Those are commonly the most jealous of pedestrian trespassers who seldom visit their own estates, but permit the seasons to scatter their charms around their villas and rural possessions without the heart to enjoy, or even the presence to behold. How often have I myself been arrested in some long- frequented dale—in some spot endeared by its own beauties and the fascinations of memory, by a board exhibiting in giant characters 'Stopped by an Order of Sessions,' and denouncing the terrors of the law upon trespassers When the path of immemorial usage is closed—when the little streak, almost as fine its a mathematical line, along the wealthy man's ample field is grudgingly erased—it is impossible not to feel indignant at the pitiful monopoly. Is there no village champion to be found bold enough to put in his protest against these encroachments, to assert the public right? For a right it is as authentic as that by which the land itself is held and as clearly acknowledged by the laws. Is there no local Hampden with dauntless breast' to withstand the petty tyrants of the fields,' and to save our good old foot- paths ? If not, we shall in a few years be doomed to the highways and the hedges to look, like Dives, from a sultry region of turnpikes, into a pleasant one of verdure and foliage which we may not approach." It is when I see unnecessary and arbi- trary encroachment upon the rural privileges of the public that I grieve. Exactly in the same proportion as our population and com- mercial habits gain upon us do we need all possible opportunities to keep alive in us the spirit of Nature. The world is too much with us; late and soon, Getting and spending we lay waste our powers Little there is in nature that is ours. We give ourselves up to the artificial habits and objects of ambition till we endanger the higher and better feelings and capacities of our being, and it is alone to the united in- fluence of religion, literature and nature that we must look for the preservation of our moral nobility. Whenever, therefore, I behold one of our old field-paths closed, I regard it as another link in the chain which Mammon is winding around us, another avenue cut off by which we might fly to the lofty sanctuary of Nature for power to with- stand him.

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE IN WALES. DR. MACNAMAKA'S FIGURES CRITICISED. Archdeacon Bevan has sent the following letter to the press. Having given publicity to Dr. Macnamara's views, we think it only fair to give equal publicity to the Archdeacon's criticism:— Dr. Macnamara has done good service to the cause of education by drawing attention to the extreme irregularity of the attendance in our elementary schools, as shown by a comparison of the numbers in average attendance with the numbers on the registers on the last day of the school year. The percentage drawn from this comparison is 75'86 for Wales, the corresponding figures for England being 81'55, and for Scotland 943, whence the conclusion that Wales is below England, and still further below Scotland, in this important particular. This conclusion (subject, possibly, to some slight correction from the cir- cumstance that the number on the registers is taken at a fixed date, while the attendance is the average of the whole year) is, of course, indisput- able and if these percentages were restricted to the question of irregularity they could not be too often brought under public notice. But I question whether they are so restricted, and whether they are now by many persons supposed to represent the general position of school attendance in Wales as compared with England. Let it be observed they do not touch the question of non-attendance, and it may happen, after all, that the amount of attend- ance may vary considerably in the areas under comparison. This appears to be the case with Wales as compared with the administrative counties of England, to which the percentage applies. In spite of the higher ratio of irregu- larity in Wales, there is -t higher ratio of average attendance here than in England, the percentages, as ascertained from a comparison of the average attendance with the school population (that is, one-sixth of the total population), being about 95 in Wales and 92 in England. How, then, comes it that the ratio of irregularity is in the opposite direction ? From the fact that the number on the registers in Wales is higher in proportion to the attendance than in England, the percentages being, according to my estimation, 125 in the former to 112 in the latter. The number on the registers is a most important factor in the question of irregularity, and the ratio this bears to the population varies to a remarkable degree in the various areas. If Wales were reduced to a. level with England in this respect the effect would be to elevate it above England in the matter of irregu- larity, it being assumed that the average attend- ances remained the same as they now are in the two areas. Ito.. _r.¡;: The point for which I am making is that these ratios of attendance to the numbers on the registers do not furnish a safe basis for estimating the general position of school attendance in a given area, nor, consequently, for comparing one area with another in this respect. The Education Department has wisely put forth a warning note on this head in its report for the present year (p. 44) by prefixing to the table showing the percentage of attendance to the numbers on the registers an N.B. to the following effect:—"This table must be used with caution, as it does not always follow that because a school has a low percentage that the average attendance has been bad. If, for instance, the numbers on the school register on the last day of the school year are above the average of the whole year, the percentage will be lower than when the numbers are uniform through the twelve months. Thus a school increasing in numbers shows a lower percentage than a school whose numbers are decreasing." I would illustrate the matter in this way: Supposing a school had in 1897 an average attendonce of 80. with 100 on the register, and that in 1E98 the school attendance had increased to 85 and the number on the register to 110, the percen- tage would drop from 80 to 77, though the attendance had increased, What applies thus to a single school applies equally to a county and to a comparison of one area with another. In order to form a fair opinion as to the position of school atteudance in any county, I think that regard should be paid to the proportion which it bears to the population as well as the proportion it bears to the number on the registers, and that these two would supplement each other. But until the Education Department sees fit to add a column of percentages on this subject to their present elaborate return, the public is not likely to hear much of the matter.

ROUND THE TOWN. An Evening on the Terrace. V. The Terrace to-day is a very different place to what it was fifty years ago. To see this difference. look at any of the recent fine phographs, and then look at Harwood's engraving dated 1844— to a casual observer they hardly represent one and the same place. Then the Terrace encled at the Marine Baths, near Bryn Diodde, and had Constitution Hill before it in all its glory, unspoiled by the hands of the vandal. The Baths formerly stood on that wide, protrud- ing part of the Terrace, just before you come to the Queen's Hotel. They were built by the late Dr. Price Williams, a practitioner of long-standing in the town, on scientific principles, suggested by an eminent engineer, and were carried into effect by the public spirited proprietor, without regard to the outlay in accomplishing his scheme. But time brings many changes, the doctor is pro- bably forgotten, and his baths have been removed to make room for the fine promenade which now skirts the bay. The Terrace is now seen at its best, crowded with visitors from seven to ten, the strains of our tine town band filling the air with melody, Mr. Collins' minstrels a never failing source of pure fun and enjoyment for the crowds which patronise his band, and occasionally our Glamorganshire miners find it convenient to give an improvised concert of vocal music on the shore. Our "Glamis" miners are rare singers; those who come up for a stay by the sea, bringing with them their wives and children, are the true "working men" of whom we read much and see little. They are the best of their class, men whose sobriety and carefulness are such as to permit of their saving enough in the year to get this outing. Last year the strike was fatal to any such enjoyment, bands of them came along to sing "for money to help the wives and children." This year with better times they come along and sing for love and gratitude. A few nights ago their rendering of some part songs and hymns was a remarkable feature, and justly earned the applause of the visitors who crowded the Terrace above them. That our Town Band is valued by the music loving and understanding part of our inhabitants and visitors is a fact we cannot gainsay. Let any- one who doubts this spend an evening here when the rain does not permit of the band playing on the Terrace. The void will be at once be seen. Some of our visitors seem to be under the im- pression that the Town Council does all for the band buys the instruments, and uniforms, orders the music, &c., &c. Such, however, is not the case, the instruments are found by the players, and the uniforms are being paid for by gifts from towns- folk and visitors. Surely in view of the real pleasure afforded by the band, and of the known excellence of its playing, and of the deserved popularity of its indefatigable conductor, it would not be expecting too much if the visitors subscribed R20 before the season closes, and so clear off the uniform debt. Let the old motto be remembercd-" His dat qui cito (lat," ie.. He gives twice who gives quickly." It is a good sight to see the crowds of visitors enjoying the nightly Terrace walk, father and mother, sons and daughters, lovers and loved ones, invalids in chairs, all here seeking fresh strength for life's battle. A feature of interest and pleasure, too, just now, is the sight of Mr. Weller's flowers in their trim beds. How on earth he manages to get them to such perfection, and to keep them bright for so many weeks on our wind swept Terrace is a puzzle to ordinary folks. Yet see what a wealth of bloom is now here, that one bed of nicotine plants alone is worth a journey to see and to smell. In the day time, of course, this flower closes, but as soon as the evening comes, and the cool breeze. blow the blooms open and exhale their sweet perfume. Then, too, the sunsets, never twice the same; no wonder that Turner, England's greatest colour artist, found it necessary to come here for his effects. Only the other day as I was viewing that wonderous collection of his works got together by the City of London, in the Guildhall, I fancied I could trace Aberystwyth sunsets in many of his paintings. The electric light, when it does burn steadily- accent please on the words when and steadily," —is a great help to the comfort of thepromenaders. Some day, doubtless, we shall arrive at a better steadiness in our lights, at present it reminds one of the old game of Now you've got :me, now you've lost me." Although it is hard to say exactly where it should be placed, still we cannot deny the desirability of there being a shelter somewhere or another on the Terrace. Given a clever architect, he could plan such a structure, light, ornamental, graceful, use- ful, with a public convenience sunk out of sight underneath it, with a man and his wife in charge of it. Other Corporations are quick to see that such a lavatory soon pays for itself, and becomes a valuable bit of property. One feature of our Terrace in the evening always exercises my thought, and that because I cannot yet see my way clearly to judge of its pros" and cons." No one values the efforts of the Salvation Army more than I do; from personal knowledge of many years, in town and country parishes in England and America, I have learnt to value its agencies and to recognise it as a brother in all re- ligious work. But it is quite another thing to find it holding a nightly service on the Terrace; mind, I don't grudge it. Far from it. I only ask what would be the treatment given to some other lecturer, did he appear and hold forth ? I know it is a puzzling question to answer, but common fairness seems to demand a reply. By the way, the question is often asked Are valuable stones found on the beach ?" Hear what the late antiquary, Tbos. Owen Morgan, says on the subject:Amongst the stones are found many fine pebbles and valuable stones, such as chrystals, cornelians, jaspers, onyx, trap stones, pudding stones, moccoes, and agates." Some day I hope to j' see a stone such as one of these, which has really been found on our beach and polished in the town by a local lapidary. I do not, doubt. the finding and polishing; I only ask to see both with my own eyes. PHILIP SIDNEY.

Business Notices. TAILORING ESTABLISHMENT, 13, pIER STREET, ^^BERYSTWYTH. DAVID JAMES. Suitings, Coatings, Trouserings, &c., in the best fashion and at reasonable prices. Cricketing and Boating Suits made to order On the Shortest Notice. FOR WELSH WOOLLEN GOODS GO TO ROWLAND MORGAN, LONDON HOUSE, ABERYSTWYTH. WM. THOMAS, COAL AND LIME MERCHANT, ABE RYSTW Yr il. BRICKS, SLATES & PIPES of every description always in Stock. DAVID MORGAN, DRAPERY AND MIL LI N E R Y ESTABLISHMENT, 18, pIER STREET, A BERYSTWYTH. DAVID EVANS, WATOHM AKEIt, JEWELLER & OPTICIAN, 39, GREAT DARKGATE ST., ABERYSTWYTH, (Opposite the Lion Royal Hotel,) Invites your attention to his Choice Stock of i E W E L L E R I-, Comprising all the Latest Designs and mast Fashion- able Patterns in GOLD, SILVER, PEBBLES A* JET SILVER PLATE SUITABLE FOR PRESENTATIONS. G OLD AND SILVER ^J^RATCHES IN GREAT VARIETY. H. H. A- V I E S, PHOTOGRAPHER, PIEll STREET. (Removed one door above.) ABERYSTWYTH. HH. D., having removed to larger premises, • begs to inform the public generally that he is now enabled, with the he ter facilities at his disposal, to execute all orders p omptlv. In thanking his numerous patronisers for their kind support in the past, lie trusts that his care and attention will merit a continuance of the same. JOHN LLOYD & SONS, TOWN CRIERS, BILL POSTERS ct DISTRIBUTORS, HAVE the largest number of most prominent 71 Jt -M- Posting Stations in all parts of Aberystwyth and District. Having lately purchased the business and stations of Aberystwyth Advertising and General Bill Posting Stations, they are able to take large contracts of every description. Over 100 Stations in the Town and District. Official Rill Posters to the Town and County Coun- cils, G.W.R. Co., Cambrian Railway Co.. all the Auctioneers of the Town and District, and other Public Bodies. Private Address- 18, SKINNER STREET, ABERYSTWYTH. I. AND G. LLOYD, COACHBUILDERS. ALFRED PLACE, ABERYSTWYTH. Carriages made to order on the shortest notice. Experienced Men kept for all Branches. CARRIAGES FOR SALE. SUMMER FASHIONS, C. M. WILLIAMS BEGS respectfully to announce that lie is now showing a good selection of NEW GOODS SUITABLE FOR THE PRESENT SEASON. MV HATS AND BONNETS. NEW MILLINERY. NEW FEATHRRS AND FLOWERS. NEW RIBBONS AND LACES. NEW DRESS MATERIALS. j NEW GOWNS AND SILK SCARFS. NEW SILK UMBRELLAS, &c. NOTED HOUSE FOR STYLISH HATS AND BONNETS. SPECIAL ATTENTION PAID TO MOURNING ORDERS. GINTS' NEWEST SHAPES IN HATS AND CAPS, TIES, SCARES COLLARS, CUFFS, Inspection respectfully invited. C. M. WILLIAMS. GENERAL DRAPERY JpSTABLISHMENT, 10, PIER STREET, ABERYSTWYTH. [ PRINTING POSTERS. HANDBILLS. CIRCULARS. PROGRAMMES. INVOICES. BILLHEADS. MEMORANDUMS. BUSINESS CARDS. TIME SHEETS. RECEIPT BOOKS. DELIVERY BOOKS. "Cb Ulefsb Gaztt" Office, InUDGE STREET & GRAY'S l ABERYSTWYTH. List of some of the principal places where Cb ttkisi) Gazette0 is sold: ABERYSTWYTH. ABERAYRON. ABERDOVEY. A BEKUYXGIAVYX. ABERLLEFENNY. ABERARTH. ARTHOG. BALA. BARMOUTH. BLAENAU FESTIXIOG BRONANT. BLAENPENNAL. BORTH. Bow STREET BANGOR. CARDIGAN. CARMARTHEN. UARNARVON CEMMES. CELLAN. CLLCENXIN. CROSS INK. C'ORRIS. CORWEX. CRICCIETH. CWMYSTWYTH. CRIBYN. DOLGELLEY. UINAS MAWDDWY. DERRY ORMOND. DEVIL'S BRIDGE. DREFACH. DIHEWYD. DYFFRYN. EGLWYSFACH. GOGINAN. HARLECH. LAMPETER. LLAVBADARN LI. AX FIII ANGEL.. LLAXFAIUAN. LLAXWXEN. LLAXVVEXOG. LLAXARTH. LLANDDEWI. LLAXGEITHU. LLEDROD. LLAXILAR. Lr.Axox. LLAXBF.DI:. LLAXGYBI. LLAXYBVTHEH. LLAXDYSSUL. LLAXBRYXMAIR. L LAX nil YSTYD. LLAXUWCHLIA'X. LIAVYXGV.RIL. MACHYXLLETII.. MIXFFORDD NEWC ASTLE EMLYX. NEWQUAY. PEXXAL. PONT LLAXIO. POX TRUYDFEXDI G A ID. PoXTRHYDYGROlv". PEXUHYXDEUDRAETU. PORTAIADOC'. PEXLLWYX. PONTERWYD. PENRIIYXCOCH. PEXPARKE. PvVLUIKLT. RHYDLEWTS. HHYDFYDK. TALYBONT. TKEGAROX. TAI..SAR\. TALSARXAI*. TOWYX. TREFEIRIG. YSTKAD. YSPYTTY YSTWYTH LOXDOX. L IYER POOL. LLAXDI:!). LLAX IHI I x.'j(>d AYti.I.s. MAXCUESTEU. POXTYPTMDD ADVERTISING COS nnOK STALL. r¡;i{Tfl. POXTYCYMXEK.