Welsh Gazette and West Wales Advertiser

From the Banks of the Dovey. At last the Infectious Diseases Notification Act has been enforced at Machynlleth, and though it can hardly be said that we are particularly liable to epidemics, this very simple precautionary measure should have been adopted long ago. Un- fortunately we cannot give ourselves any specially sanitary airs over this matter, as questions of this kind, when left to the discretion of the local councils, are usually very apt to grow musty from neglect. People in small towns or scattered country districts often fail to realise either the importance or common sense of the adoption of any measure affecting the public welfare, should it be bolstered up with any formality. We miss our old enemy, measles," from the Definition of Diseases list, yet this is almost the most common and one of the most infectious of the tribe. Also some matrons assert that whooping-cough should be notified, it being a particularly troublesome ailment, which spreads very rapidly. Personally, one would fancy it advertises itself sufficiently, yet it should be mentioned, if only as an on dit." A correspondent in a local paper has revived an old grievance which he very justly points out is not absolutely impossible to redress. The Dovey, being a river with somewhat capricious ideas of its proper limits, and a certain partiality for explora- tion, occasionally causes trouble, even to those who dote upon its banks, more especially to the above- mentioned correspondent and a section of the general public. It conforms, like every other respectable river, to the necessity for a bridge, but not infrequently it may be said to give that useful structure the slip, and proceed to Machynlleth on business of its own which means that many of us have to take to boats-not a particularly fascinating pastime at this season of the year. Several schemes for overcoming this centrifugal tendency have been suggested, and none of them appear to be very costly. Perhaps the County Council will consider the matter, for after all a road is a road, and a river a river, and just now these respective functions appear to be getting a little mixed. February is over, and we are left lamenting. February, usually so'mild, so sunny, so full of the promise of spring. Spring! Rather the promise of fresh colds, renewed coughs, and perpetual shivers. Snow, not spring, has visited us, and it is only fair to say that these latter promises have been faithfully kept. One's intimates, too, have just now a trying little way of discussing obituary notices in a manner little short of ghoulish. They make astounding discoveries as to the remarkable longevity of the inhabitants of certain districts, they compare notes, and discuss the pros and cons as regards family constitutions, etc. At this stage it becomes neces- sary to suppress these croakers like the dormouse, and, if requisite, in an equally summary style. Now, few people deny that we are physically, at least, a weaker generation than our forefathers. They expected, usually, to see their eighty," and did it too, in most cases with an intelligence and activity very different from the feeble survival of a few animal instincts usually associated with such great age. We may scarcely expect to attain such maturity. We may be thankful to prove mere buds of 60 or thereabouts. And the cause or causes 1 Many of these are only too obvious, and, indeed, whether such long life is greatly to be desired is altogether another question. Yet one gets into the habit of living, besides which few of us care to see the dawn of our last day, even if we have been spared the earlier vision of the Five who pass at death." A leading daily informs us that there is now a great demand for a breezy optimistic novel"— such as may presumably serve to wile away some of the weary hours of convalescence. Coming just at present, this demand seems significant; it is easy to understand that novels of the usual decadent type would prove neither cheering nor interesting to men who have recently been facing death in many forms in a foreign country. Pessimism, apparently, is played out, and instead of the usual cultured corruption, the world-weary sneers of the jaded voluptuary, the blasS striplings and eccentric maidens who resent courtesy from an opposite sex, we are to listen once more to the clash of wedding bells, and the fine old fashioned legend that they lived happy ever after." Realism can become too sordid, and it is usually hopelessly one- sided- ignoring the law of compensation with an alSiowt feminine pertinacity. We hear a great deal about women's rights, and a vast- a nauseous deal more abc, women's ,;rongs- and to be truly fin de siecle girls must, by hook or crook, develope some sort of vocation, which when found make a note on! Queer forms are sometimes assnmed by this thing-sometimes a music hall-or temperance work-frequently a wealthy husband—a Zenana mission. It may turn to the east and vestments- or to the north and exploration. One learns that uost vocations are 'kittle cattle'—but they usually succeed in making thing hot for other people. A new, and certainly unhackneyed vocation would be to cultivate a cheerful and hope- ful outlook on life. Then even breezy and optimistic novels may become usual-and the difficulties of providing suitable literature for those who have wrestled with the cruel actualities of life become less. For if life be not worth living, it most decidedly is not worth fighting for, much less facing Mauser bullets or the ominous advances of enteric fever. We are glad to note that football is yet in being at Machynlleth. The Town team has been giving a good account of itself against Aberystwyth College; and on Thursday last the Intermediate School team travelled to Newtown, and defeated the Newtonian scholars by two to nil. And on Saturday they found the Aberystwyth School team a tough nut to crack, so left the field with honours easy. MAGPIE.

LLANILAR. ARCH NOAH.—Pont newydd y pentref. ARWYDD-AIBI ARGLWYDD METHUEN. Methu-en ill Kimberley. AT Y CYNGHOR PLWYFOL.—A welwch chwi yn dda a glanhau y gwter sydd i gymeryd y dwfr o'r pistyll, yn lie fod yno lyn yn croni a llaid yn casglu. GWAITH MWYN FRONQOCH. Glaniwyd peiriant mawr yn pwyso tair tunell ar ddeg at wasanaeth cwmni y gwaith yma, yn safle Llanilar yr M. & M., dydd Mawrth diweddaf. Y FINGER-POST YN SYNU fod y wraig Lady Smith yn dal i ymladd cyhyd, fod French ar ochr y Prydein- iaid, a fod Gwely Cenin wedi dal Cronje. Geilw ef Cronje yn "splendid heroic fool," aoyn hyn mae dyngarwyr yn cydweled ag ef. CYFARFOD CYSTADLEUOL Y GROGLITH.-Y mae Car- meliaid wedi penderfynu cadw y cwrdd blynyddol yma eleni eto, ac wedi dewis yn feirniaid Mri. D. Morris (llenyddiaeth), J. Lumley Davies (cerddor- iaeth), a W. Morris a D. Davies (celfyddydwaith). Bydd y testynau allan tua diwedd yr wythnos. THE PULPIT.-Tlie pulpit of Carmel was occupied last Sunday by Cranogwen. She preached morning and evening to a crowded congregation.

PENNAL. LECTURE.—Last Friday evening Cranogwen paid a visit to this village and delivered a stirring lecture at the C. M. Chapel to a large and appreciative audience.

PRINTING done neatly and quickly at moderate aharges at the Welsh Gazette" Offices, Bridge Street, Aberystwyth. Memorial Cards of the newest designs. I

WINTER ASSIZES. Cardiganshire. The winter assizes for the county of Cardigan, were held on Friday at Lampeter, before the hon. Mr Justice Bucknill. His Lordship, who arrived at Lampeter on Thursday evening from Haverford- west, was met at the station by Col. Davies-Evans, the lord-lieutenant of the county, accompanied by the Rev. Robert Williams, M.A., the Under Sheriff, Mr David Lloyd, Bryn, and Supt. Phillips with a pose of police. His Lordship attended divine service at St. Peter's Church on Friday morning, when a sermon was preached by the Chaplain (the Rev. Robert Williams, M.A., of St. David's College.) THE GRAND JURY. The following were sworn on the grand jury:— Sir Martein Owen Mowbray Lloyd, Rev. R. L. Lloyd, G. W. Parry, T. H. R. Hughes. H. Tobit I Evans, Major Price"Lewes, C. H. Ll. Fitz Williams, I Morgan Evans, D. Davies, Lewis Davies, D. J. Williams, Capt. E. W. D. Evans, William Jones, D. Tivy Jones (Mayor of Lampeter), Thomas Griffiths, Rev. Thomas Davies, Rev. T. R. Davies, Evan Lloyd, and the Rev. T. C. Edmunds. CHARGE TO THE GRAND JURY. In his charge to the Grand Jury the Judge said it was very gratifying to him to repeat the obser- vations that he made at the last assize town, namely, that in his journey through Wales he found the Welsh people to be a very law-abiding people. They had apparently very little crime, and therefore, they bad a very small criminal popula- tion. His Lordship expressed regret at the death of the late High Sheriff (Mr. James Jones), and tendered his thanks on behalf of the Crown to the Lord-Lieutenant for having courteously offered to take the place of the High Sheriff during the present assizes. FALSE PRETENCES. The only case for trial was that in which Thomas (46), a labourer, employed by John Rowlands, farmer, Llangeitho, pleaded guilty to having obtained by false pretences pair of trousers from Mr. Evan Jones, draper, Llangeitho, on Nov. 23rd. Mr. Stanley Griffith-Jones (instructed by Mr. Frank Lloyd, solicitor, Lampeter) appeared for the Crown. It appeared that the prisoner in November last entered Mr. Evan Jones' shop, and by falsely representing himself to have come from, and with the authority of,-a Mr. John Rowlands a farmer in the district, he thereby obtained the delivery of a pair of trousers and a vest from the said Mr. Evan Jones. His Lordship sentenced the prisoner to three month's with hard labour. Mr. Stanley Griffith-Jones then stated that there was a second and further charge against the prisoner, of having forged an order on authority for the delivery of the same goods purporting to come from the said Mr. John Rowlands, but Mr. Griffith-Jones proposed to call no evidence in support of this charge. The Jury at His Lordship's direction accordingly returned a verdict of "not guilty." This terminated the days business. Mr. Richard Richards, Gwarfelin, was the foreman of the Jury. THE JUDGE'S RECENT ACCIDENT IN THE HUNTING FIELD. At the conclusion of the business, Sir Marteine Lloyd, Bart., the foreman of the Grand Jury, ex- pressed condolence with his Lordship in the accident he had sustained in the hunting field. The Judge, holding up his injured arm, laugh- ingly replied, I am much obliged to you, gentlemen, for your kind wishes. Some people m to think that as soon as a man becomes a judge he ought not to hunt. If that is so I am a great sinner (laughter). But until I am informed by the Houses of Lords and Commons that I must not I shall continue to do so (renewed laughter). I am very much obliged to you." THE LORD LIEUTENANT'S SONS. The grand jury and the members of the bar and others to the number of about forty afterwards met at luncheon at the Black Lion Hotel, the Lord Lieutenant presiding. The Chairman proposed the health of the Queen, and referred to the excellent example and good influence of Her Majesty throughout Her wide dominions which she had always shown ever since she ascended the throne. The Queen took the deapest interest in the affairs and welfare of her people and he sincerely hoped that the difficulties which beset the country at the present moment would in no way affect Her Majesty's health. Mr. William Jones, Ffosheulog, proposed the health of the Lord Lieutenant, the most popular man in Cardiganshire," and Sir Marteine Lloyd referred to the fact that one of Highmead's sons was fighting at the front, and that another was going out with the Pembrokeshire Yeomanry. Colonel Davies-Evans in reply said he appeared at the head of the table as a tribute of respect to the late High Sheriff, who was a firm friend of his. As to his boys he had no doubt they would do their duty (hear, hear). 4.

Merionethshire. GWLAD Y MENYG GWYNION." The Merioneth Winter Assizes were held at the County Hall, Dolgelley, on Friday before Mr Justice Channell. His Lordship attended divine service at the parish church in the morning, and was accompanied by the High Sheriff, Mr R. E. Ll. Richards, of Caerynwch, and the Under-Sheriff, Mr J. Chas. Hughes, solicitor. The following were sworn on the Grand Jury Robert Maurice Wynne, Her Majesty's Lieutenant for Merioneth Messrs. John Price, Rhiwlas; John Vaughan, Nannau; Honourable Charles Henry Wynn, Rug; Messrs. C. E. Munro Edwards, Dol- serau; Slaney Wynne, Dol'rhyd; C. Williams. Hengwm; C. E. J. Owen, Hengwrtucha Edward Griffith, Springfield R. Prys Owen, Aelybryn; R. Roberts, Plasweinydd; Hugh James Lloyd, Tynycoed Edmund Buckley, Plasyndinas; John Hughes Jones, Aberdovey; Marmaduke Lewis Lewis, Brynawel; J. Chidlaw Roberts, Leahurst; David Robert Jones, Corwen; John Williams, Gwernhefin; J. E. Jones, Brynffynon; H. E. Walker, Plasyndref; R. C. Anwyl, Llugwy; Thomas Jones, Penygarth; E. Jones, Bodrenig W. J. Morris, Glanglasfor; R. Wynne Williams, Dolgelley; W. Ednyfed Williams, Gwerclas; E. M. Roberts, Cefntreforisa; Ellis Wilkin, Glan- mawddach; J. Meyrick Jones, Meyrick House E. H. Davies, Brynymynach; T. Parry Jones-Parry, Bank House H. Pughe, The Bank. His Lordship, addressing the Grand Jury, con.r gratulated the county upon the fact that there were no prisoners for trial. He was very much in favour of the custom of holding assizes in the counties. He believed that the business of the county should be done in the county, but at the same time wished that the arrangements might be made so that when a clean sheet occurred, as in the present instance, the High Sheriff might convey such information to the grand jurors and others similarly concerned that might have been a con- venience to him and to them. He would not detain them, and thanked them for attending. The High Sheriff (Mr R. E. Ll. Richards), ad- dressing his Lordship, remarked that they should congratulate themselves on the immunity of the county from crime. This was the third occasion an assize had been held in the county of Merioneth during his term of office with no criminal cases to be tried, and according to custom in such cases he desired his Lordship to accept a pair of white gloves. His Lordship, in returning thanks, expressed his pleasure on learning that the county was free from crime on the two previous sessions also.

+. Montgomeryshire. INTERESTING WELSH LAND CASE. Mr. Justice Channell at Welshpool on Thursday was occupied in the hearing of a case of consider- able interest to landowners and farmers, in which Evan Owen, farmer, formerly of Ceniarth Farm, Machynlleth, and now of Penrhiwceiber, South Wales, sued his former landlord, William Edward Gilbertson Pritchard, of Ceniarth Hall, Machyn- lleth, for E121 8s. 8d. in respect of the value of sheep sold to the defendant under the agreement of tenancy, and of manure and other articles sup- plied to the defendant; in addition to compensa- tion in respect of damage sustained to the fences and surface of the land by the felling and haulage on the farm during the latter part of his tenancy, the defendant having sold the timber on the farm to Mr Richard Owen, of Machynlleth. The defen- dant counter claimed £88 5s. 6d. in respect of want of repair to the dwelling-house, outbuildings, fences, ditches, and manuring of the land. The issue between the parties was tried without a jury, owing to the complication of the accounts in- volved. Mr Samuel Moss, M.P. (instructed by Mr John Rowlands, Machynlleth), was for the plaintiff, and Mr Ellis Jones Griffith, M.P. (instructed by Mr. E. Gillart, Machynlleth), for the defendant. Mr Moss, in opening the case for the plaintiff, said that Mr. Griffith had admitted the defendant's indebtedness to the plaintiff in respect of the sheep upon which the original action was brought, so that the issue before his Lordship was narrowed to the compensation claims of the two parties. Evan Owen, the plaintiff, said his father took Ceniarth Farm, the property of the defendant, about 23 years ago, and lie succeeded to the ten- ancy on the death of his father in 1891. Receiving notice to quit in September, 1898, he left the farm on March 25 last. Before he left the defendant sold a number of the trees on the farm to a Mach- ynlleth timber merchant. The trees were scattered all over the farm, and as many stood in or about the fences, there was considerable damage when the trees were felled. The fallen trees were lugged across the fields to the road where they were loaded. Thelugging was done by three teams, and he had seen 19 as many as five horses lug one tree. The breaking of the fences resulted in the sheep getting mixed up-the weak and the strong-while he also lost from 25 to 30 sheep, which he valued at between 20s. and 21s. each. The farm was made up of pasture and grazing fields, and in addition to the loss of sheep, he had had to employ extra labour to make good the damage caused by lugging the timber across the land. He did not repair the fences before he left the farm, as he thought the work should have been done by the landlord, who was responsible for their having been damaged. He estimated the damage to the fences at £ 48.—Ex- amined on the counter-claim, the plaintiff said the defendant resided at Ceniarth Hall, which was in the middle of the farm. The defendant passed over the land frequently, and was therefore in a good position to obtain full knowledge as to the condition of the farmhouse. He never received any complaints from the defendant as to the condition of the house or the fences during his tenancy. On the other hand, a complaint was made to the defendant for allowing a tree adjoining the house to be felled, as in falling it damaged the gable end of the house. The defendant promised to repair the house, but he failed to keep the promise, the result being that in wet weather the interior of the house got very damp. During the tenancy several improvements were carried out on the farm, the yard was repaved, while the stables when he left were in better condition than they were when the tenancy was entered upon. No gates were required when he left the farm, while it was the custom of the country for the incoming tenant and not the outgoing tenant to repair the fences. As to manuring the farm, he regularly 9 11 manurea the land with artificial manure, paying more .for the artificials than he would for lime. Since leaving he had been offered the farm again, though at an increased rent.—By Mr. Griffiths: He was not asked to pay an increased rent before he received the notice to leave. He contended that the notice was served with the object of getting more rent. Evan Lewis, a farmer and freeholder, said his farm adjoined Ceniarth farm. The plaintiff, before the tree-felling, kept his fences in as good a condi- tion as other farmers in the district. He saw the damage done by the tree-felling, but he could not estimate the damage done.—By Mr. Griffiths: The plaintiff's fences were a good as his (witness's). The plaintiff bad about five gates on his farm between the fields. The witness had a like number of gates on his farm, and ten or more gaps to allow the sheep to pass unheeded from one farm to the other. Richard Morgan, another farmer, said the plain- tiff always kept his fences fairly well, and he also considered that the plaintiff had made an improve- ment in his fences, before the timber felling in February last year. Prior to that they were in good order, but the fences were much damaged by the felling. Other witnesses were called to give similar evidence. For the defence, Walter B. C. Jones, land agent and surveyor, of Criccieth, said he visited Ceniarth Farm in June last. Though defendant left on March 25, the incoming tenant had a right to enter and cultivate the farm on February 2nd. The plaintiff therefore could have lost nothing by the felling of the trees in February, for if there was any damage it would be suffered by the incoming tenant. He estimated that the outgoing tenant should have spent at least E10 in repairing the house, and £48 in putting the fences in order, and £10 on the ditches, gates, and stiles. While he estimated that the plaintiff in the last year of his tenancy should have put £ 7 worth of lime on the land, while in his estimate he allowed El for cart- ing timber to repair gates and fill up gateways. Edward Evans, whose farm adjoined Ceniarth Farm, said when the plaintiff's father took the farm in 1876, it was in a better condition than it was in 1898. He kept his fences and ditches in a very bad state, and he bad to complain to the plain- tiff about his sheep coming through the fences on to his (witness') farm.—By Mr Moss His son- married the daughter of the present tenant of Ceniarth Farm. John Micah, another farmer, said the plaintiff could not have kept his fences worse.—By Mr Moss He had not been on very good terms with the plaintiff. He never told anyone that he did not think defendant was treating plaintiff fairly in the matter of the fences. Richard Owen, timber merchant, said he bought the timber, numbering between 50 and 60 trees, on Ceniarth Farm, and of that number only half a dozen were lugged before March 25. His Lordship, after a lengthy summing up. gave judgment for the plaintiff on the claim for £71 7s lid and costs on the interlocutoxy judg- ment, and for tho defendant on the counter claim for P-32 10s, each party to pay his own ccsts as and from the date of the interlocutory judgment.

LAMPETER. 100 MILES R.C.C.—Keen interest is :taken by the young cyclists of the town in this movement, and over twenty have promised to try, and qualify themselves as members. They are only waiting for dry weather. SANDOW CLASS.—Now that the snow and frost have cleared, and mild weather set in, and the days lengthened, it is high time that the Sandow Class should commence again. Mr. Bertie Jones, the instructor, is very anxious to start duties, but the pupils are a bit backward. PREACHING MEETINGS.-The Independents in this district will hold a series of meetings at Zoar chapel on the third week in March, to celebrate their Jubilee. The services of several able preachers have been engaged, and the meetings promise to turn out successful. GOLF.—The monthly competition for the gold medal in connection with the Lampeter Golf Club took place at the Gilvin Links last Saturday, when Mr. Llewelyn-Bankes Price, Doldrement, came out winner. The medal has to be won three times in succession before it becomes the absolute property of the winner. THE WESLEYANs.-The Rev. E. Berwyn Roberts' of Pontrhydygroes, has been removed to this place to succeed the late Rev. John Rowlands. Mr. Roberts' term of ministry at Pontrhydygroes was a very successful and happy one, and he was held in high esteem by both comformists and noncon- formists. He is a hard worker and a good preacher. In the different examinations which he passed, he was always placed in a most creditable position. THE STATION.—The yard at the Station' has been the scene of busy operations during the past few weeks. The sidings which had become in- adequate to meet the increased traffic have been relaid on a new plan, and additional lines put in. A large gang of men, under the superintendence of Mr. T. E. Owen, were employed to perform the work which, is now rapidly drawing to a finish. The alterations will be a boon to all who hare occasion to make use of the yard. ST. "PETER'S CHURCH. Mr. Justice Bucknill attended divine worship at St. Peter's Church on Sunday morning, when the service was conducted by the chaplain, the Rev. Robert Williams, M.A. The procession was headed by a body of Police, under the charge of Supt. T. Phillips, and the Judge was accompanied by the under sheriff, Mr. D. Lioyd, Lord Lieutenant, and the officials of the Court of Assize. At the end of the service Miss Hughes, the organist, played "God save the Queen." MINSTRELS.—New additions have been made to the minstrel troupe. Practices will start in the course of a week or so. It is intended to hold an entertainment about Easter. The programme will consist of songs and choruses, and conclude with a very comical sketch. Could not a musical drill by about half-a-dozen young fellows of the town, under the management of Mr. Bertie Jones, the Sandow silver medallist, be inserted in the nro- gramme 7 Mr. Jones would be delighted to undertake the teaching of the drill. THE INDEPENDENTS of Lampeter and district intend holding an examination in April next for their Sunday School pupils. The Rev. Davies Rhydybont, and Mr. Wallis Thomas, Llanybyther Grammar School, have been appointed examiners of the younger portion of the schools, and the Revs T. Jones, Pencader; and B. Carolan Davies, Tyn- gwndwn, examiners of the older section. Mr. J. Williams, CellanfcCourt, is the secretary of the Union. JUBILEH MEETINGS in connection with Soar Con- gregation Chapel will be held at that place on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, the 5th, 6th and 7th March, when the following reverend gentlemen will officiate: H. Elvert Lewis, London J. Towyn Jones, Cwmaman; B. C. Davies, Tynygwndwn T. G. Evans, Aberayron; J. N. Davies, Llanfair; and T. T. Davies, Rhydybont, A public meeting will be held on the Tuesday afternoon at 2 p.m. when different matters will be treated by the ministers of the town. BIBLE SOCIETY.—On Monday evening last the Rev. T. Phillips, Independent minister, Llandyssil, visited the town and delivered a sermon at the Shiloh Chapel on behalf of the British and Foreign Bible Society. Mr. Phillips gave an account of the doings of the Society, and the present state of its finance. It was reported that the Branch Society at Lampeter had not been so flourishing of late, and that some of the chapels had not subscribed. The Rev. C. E. Hughes was voted Chairman of the local committee in the room of Mr. David James, Whitehall, who resigned. ST. DAVID'S COLLEGE SCHOOL.—The success o the pupils of this school at Lampeter, Oxford and Cambridge has been remarkably consistent for many years, The number of pupils who, after leaving the school, have distinguished themselves in the study of Modern History, considering the average number of pupils at the school, has been unusally high at the don Universities, no less than at St. David's College. Last week Mr. T. Stanley Roberts, B.A., an old pupil of St. David's College School, was awarded a University prize, namely The Prince Consort," at Cambridge for a piece of original work in history. The subject of Mr. Roberts' Essay was" Wales and the Tudors" and Professor Gwatkin considers that in Mr Roberts' essay we have the nucleus of a very important work. Mr. Roberts may well be congratulated on having won the double distinction of being at the head of his year in the Tripos Examination, and if securing the Prince Consort prize which is the Historian blue riband at the University of Cambridge; and Fishguard his native place, and St. David's College School may well feel proud of him. COUNTY COURT, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21ST. Before His Honour Judge Bishop. EJECTMENT ORDER.—An order for an ejectment on the application of Mr. William Davies (Messrs. Smith & Davies, Aberystwyth), was granted to Catherine Jones, Aberystwyth, against David Davies and Mary his wife. The plaintiff is mortgagee of defendant's property at Llanfair. PRICE V. PRICE.—Rees Price, formerly of Llan- ddewibrefi. sued Frederick Samuel Price, Swansea (his nephew), for E10 13., for the sale of a bicycle. Defendant counterclaimed £3 10s for valuation of stock, and 10s for medical fee alleged to have been paid for plaintiff. Mr* William Davies, of Messrs. Smith, Davies Sc Co., appeared for plaintiff.-Rees Price, formerly of Llanddewibrefi and now of Pembroke, said he, sold to defendant at Llan- ddewibrefi a bicycle. Its retail price was eighteen guineas, and he let defendant have it at the whole- sale price of £13 13s. A bill of exchange was given, but had not been paid. Referring to a counterclaim of £3 10s for taking stock of a bankrupt hosier, named Edwards, at Morriston, of which plaintiff was trustee, plaintiff said that Frederick Samuel Price was an insurance agent. He had to take stock and was only one day at the work, and he admitted that he had taken goods worth 14s, which plaintiff contended was sufficient payment. Defendant also claimed to have paid a medical fee on behalf of plaintiff preliminary to insurance, but he had not been authorised to insure his life.- Defendant said the plaintiff signed the forms and handed in a letter in which he wrote in 1896 asking defendant for a premium of £ 9. On the back of the letter, defendant wrote complaining that trade was bad.—The plaintiff in reply to defendant, admitted that he was examined by Dr. Morgan at Pontrhydfendigaid for an insurance of £ 250.— Defendant said the premium was Zll 10s. and be was going to allow his uncle (the defendant) the first year's commission of £2 10s.-Plaintiff said he never paid the premium, and defendant said he nevertheless wanted the medical fee of 10s.—Mr. Davies said defendant was never authorised, but defendant said the Society paid for all ac- cepted or refused examinations, but not for examinations for proposals accepted and not taken up by the person proposed to be in- sured.—His Honour asked for that rule and defendant said he could not produce it, but it was a general rule of all societies on which judgment had been given in other court s.-Plaintiff, in further cross-examination, said be had lent defendant £3 to put a palisading around defendant's brother's grave, who had given an 1. O. U. for it, but the 10 U had been lost.—His Honour said that defend- ant's accouut was £10 15s. for the bicycle, giving credit for £2 15s.—Defendant said he had sent in June, 1897, £5 to his uncle, reducing the claim to £ 8 17s. 6d. Having paid 10s. the medical fee to the Society, the account was reduced to £8 7s, 6d. —In reply to defendant, plaintiff said he went to defendant's house on the 1st March, 1898, and might have told his nephew that he (plaintiff) was overdrawn E500 at the bank, and asked defendant so sign the note to help him at the bank. The money, however, was due at the time.—Defendant said he at first refused to sign the note, as he knew he would not have £10 to pay, but plaintiff said if defendant had not money at the time the note became due, he (plaintiff) would find the money.— Plaintiff replied that the note was not put in the bank.—Defendant, in reply to his Honour, ad- mitted that £3 was rather too much for an insur- ance agent to get for a day's valuation, and said he would be satisfied with 30s. He also admitted owing £8 17s. 6d., against which he put the £3 for valuation, and 10s. for the medical fee. If the defendant had carried out his policy, the defendant said the bicycle would have been paid for.—By Mr. Davies Accord- ing to what plaintiff said, £ 11 17s 6d was due when the bill was signed. He bought a piece of stuff from Edwards's shop at 8s., but had not paid for it. He got it the day he was valuing. Was now clerk at ZI a week in a rent collector's office and paid a rent of Z12.-The Judge said it was admitted in 1898 that the claim was £10, it having been said it was Ell odd, but -the balance was abandoned because the stamp would not carry £11. As the interest was 15s., judgment would be given for £9 5s Od., allowing 30s for the valuation, and not allowing 10s for the medical fee, as there was no proof of authorization. WILLIAMS V. LEWIS.—Williams Williams, Cwrt- coedwr, Llangeitho, sued Thomas H. Lewis, Llan- geitho, for £10 16s Od the value of casks of butter sent from Llangeitho to Merthyr Vale. Mr. Stanley Griffiths Jones who was instructed by Mr. A. J. Hughes, Aberystwyth, appeared for plaintiff, and Mr. Daniel Watkins, solicitor, Lampeter, for the defendant.—For the defence it was stated that the goods were sent to defendant to dispose of it to the best advantage and to send the money obtained for same back. The butter was sold, but no money received, the shopkeeper having become bankrupt. —The Judge nonsuited plaintiff, his Honour observ- ing that sale and delivery had not been proved and even if the claim was amended to money received, the plaintiff could not succeed, as there was no proof that money had been received. BOARD OF GUARDIANS. A meeting of the Board was held on Friday, the 23rd ult. Present, Rev. R. C. Jones, Lampeter, in the chair, Messrs John Davies, Lampeter, David Davies, Tyncoed, J. G. Marsden, Dyffryn, John Davies, Aberduar, John Thomas, Bryn, Griffith Jones, Bank, B. J. Evans, Llanfairfach, David Price, Fronbeder, Drs. E. C. Thomas, and J. R. Evans, medical officers. OUT-RELIEF, &C. The amount of out-relief administered during the past fortnight was as follows:—Lampeter dis- trict, per Mr David Parry, £38 8s to 147 paupers Llanybyther district, per Mr David Evans, £37 6s to 131 paupers. Number in the House 19, corres- ponding week last year 20. Vagrants relieved during the past fortnight 24, corresponding period last year 30. REPORT. The Master reported: (1) That on the 9th. instant Mary Jones, aged 21 years, a lunatic from the parish of Llanwenog, was admitted in the House by order of David Evans, relieving officer; (2) That there has been a stoppage in the supply of water to the House since last Monday owing to the cast iron pipes having become corroded, and as the water was urgently required owing to the kitchen boiler becoming impaired, I instructed Thomas Roberts, plumber, to supply lead pipes, and the work is now in progress. The Board acquiesced in what the Master had done. COUNTY RATE BASIS. It was agreed to convene a meeting of the Assess- ment Committeee for the 9th proximo to consider the proposed county rate basis. WORKHOUSE LOAN. Letters were read from Mr Vaughan Davies, M.P., and Mr Lloyd Morgan, M.P., promising to give their support to any Bill introduced having for its object the extension of the time for repayment of Work- house loans to 50 years. DEATH OF A LUNATIC. Notification was received from the Joint Counties Lunatic Asylum that a pauper named Margaret Jones, formerly of Penrhos or Cottage-road, Lampeter, had died at the institution on the 13th instant. LLANYBYTHER RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL. A meeting of the Llanybyther Rural District Council was held after the Board, Mr J. Davies in the chair. Owing to there being only three members present, no business was transacted.

TREGARON. ASH WEDNESDAY.—The usual Ash Wednesday ser- vice was held at St. Caron Church, when a special sermon was preached in the morning by the vicar, Rev. D. M. Davies. WAR HORSES.—On Tuesday Mr David Griffiths pur- chased, on behalf of the War Office, good horses at high prices to replace those killed in the war. SURRENDER OF CRONJE.-The news of the surrender of Cronje reached this town on Tuesday about 11 o'clock. The first telegram received was an official one to the Post Office, and the second to Mr Jack Jenkins, London House, whilst several others giving fuller details were received later. The news caused great excitement, and was quickly spread to the neighbouring villages. SALE. On Tuesday last Mr. D. Lewis Jones, auctioneer offered for sale Tyhen Farm, near Tregaron. After some bidding the farm was sold to Mr. E. Williams, Tyhen-issa, for the sum of £ 1,050. Mr. W. Hughes Jones was the solicitor for the vendor. PRESENTATION.—On Sunday, after the evening service, a presentation was made to the Rev. Morgan Evans by the members of the church. The sum of £ 10 was handed over on behalf of the church, by the senior deacon, Mr. Peter Williams, and Mr. Evans in returning thanks said he greatly valued the presentation, not so much for its financial value, but as a token of the excellent feeling which existed between himself and the members of the church. Several members of the church who spoke made appreciative references to Mr. Evans' ministry amongst them, and expressed the hope that he would long be spared to continue his good work. FOOTBALL.-On Saturday last the Aberavron County School i ootball Team journeyed to Tre- garon to play this county schuol first team. The match was played on the School Field, in the presence of a large number of spectators, and ended in an easy win for the home team by 6 goals to nil. J fe LITERARY AND DEBATING SOCIETY.—The meet- ing of this Society was held last Wednesday even- ing. Mr. E. Caronian Evans, who occupied the chair, said he was much pleased to he present that evening amongst them, and he also wished the Society every success in the future. A paper was read by Mr. T. Alban Jones, London House, on Dafydd ap Gwilym." Mr. Jones in his paper gave a short history of the ancestors and of the birth of the great Welsh poet. He also gave selections from his works. Dafydd ap Gwilym was a con- temporary of the early English poet Chaucer and was personally known to him. The paper was listened to with much interest by all those present. A vote of thanks to the chairman for presiding, and to Mr. Jones for his excellent paper, brought the meeting to a close. READING ROOM.—The concert which we have previously announced on behalf of this institution is to take place in the Board School, on Friday next. The object is entirely praiseworthy. It is strongly felt that a public concern ought not to be in debt, even to a friendly creditor, if it can be helped. That it can be helped in this case is very evident from the support already received, and more which is promised. All sides of Tregaron life are represented. This is as it should be. The more earnest, thoughtful, self-sacrificing co-opera- tion we have in such matters, the better for our young folks in every way. Their intellectual out- look will be broadened and extended their grasp of a citizen's duty more firm and certain; and the mental advantages received will ensure to the benefit of the whole community. We wish the movement hearty success. Mr. Waterhouse, B.A., B.Sc., B.C.L., F.C.S., of the Intermediate School, takes the chair in Friday's gathering, and is expected, more so," to address his audience in Welsb. A long and varied programme has been arranged, and the difficulty has been to know what to accept. Public spirit seems to have caught fire lately at Tregaron, and there is every hope that the executive committee will be able rapidly to remove the incubus of debt under which the Reading Room has laboured for so many years. SCHOOL BOARD.—The ordinary meeting of the Tregaron U.D. School Board was held on Friday, Feb. 23rd. Present-Mr. E. Caronian Evans, chairman, presiding, Messrs. D. Jones (vice-chair- man), J. Edwards. S. Jones, Timothy Evans, and the Rev. D. M. Davies.—The minutes of the previous meeting were read, confirmed, and signed. -The lists of absentees were gone through and duly considered, and instructions given to the Attendance Officer to proceed in accordance with remarks thereon.—Applications were received from Messrs. W. Hughes, headmaster of Castell Flemish School, and D. Thomas, headmaster of Town School, for advance of salaries. Both applications were favourably considered, and an advance was granted in each case, viz., E10 to Mr. D. Thomas, and £5 to Mr. Hughes.-A discussion then ensued as to whether it be desirable or not, to allow the pupil teachers a benefit in the grant payable to them on the result of their examination. Sub- sequently it was decided that the grant so earned be divided between the head teacher and the teacher concerned—A notice of motion was given by Mr. Timothy Evans, to the effect that he would move the desirability of distributing balance sheets of the accounts of the Board to the ratepayers at the end of the current year.—Few bills were passed, and cheques drawn and signed. PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY. Before Mr. D. J. Williams, in the chair; Dr. Morgan, Dr. Lloyd, Rev. J. Davies, and Mr. Wm. Jones. DRUNK AND DISORDERLY.—Thomas Williams, Tanygraig, Ysbytty Ystwyth, was charged by Superintendent Phillips with being drunk and disorderly on the highway at Pontrhydygroes on January 30th. P.C. Jones (19) proved the case. The defendant, who is quite a youth, stated that he was going home about 9.30 p.m. on the 30th of last month, and between Miners' Arms and Mr. Pugh's shop he met several fellows who made fun of him and threw him down on the ground; he could not defend himself.—He was fined 5s. and costs, and allowed a month to pay. OBSTRUCTION.—Joseph Appleton, surgery, Pont- rhydygroes, a labourer, and Morgan Richards, I D Pantydail, Llanfihangel-creuddyn Upper, a miner, were charged by Superintendent Phillips with obstructing the free passage of a highway at Pontrhydygroes on the 26th January. P.C. Jones proved the case, and the defendants were each fined Is. and costs. BOARD OF GUARDIANS. The fortnightly meeting of the above guardians was held on Tuesday the 27th inst. at the Town Hall, when the following members were present:— Messrs. H. Herberts (in the chair), Evan Evans, Lledrod Lower Dd. Williams, Bettws Leiki E. Lloyd, Blaenpennal D. J. Williams, Rd. James, Rees Evans, Caron Lower R. Jones, Caron Upper; Thomas Jones, Daithie United Dl. Lodwick, Gartbeli; Dd. Davies, Gorwydd Peter Davies, Llangeitho John Owens, Llanbadarn Rev. T. R. Morgan, Lledrod Upper; Thos. Edwards, Nantcwnlle Wm. Jones and Lewis Oliver, Ysbytty; with J. Lloyd, clerk, M. Morgan, master, and the medical officers. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed. Statistics: Out relief for 7th week ending Ladvday to 114 paupers, E20 10s.; 8th week to 111 paupers P-19 19s. 6d. M-KSTER 8 REPORT. Number of inmates in the house ending 7th week Lady day 29th; corresponding period last year thirty; 8th week same. He also reported that Thomas Wilson an inmate was very ill. The master's report was then adopted. THE TRANSVAAL. A letter was read from Mrs. Richards, Bryneithyn, Llanfarian, stating that she would be obliged if Mr. Rowlands (the relieving officer) would give her the following information. Are there any sailors, or soldiers, out in South Africa if married, what number are their families,and if single do they main- tain any family in the following parishes:—Lledrod, Blaenpennal Llangeitho. Llanbadarn Odwyn; Nantewnlle, Llanddewi-brefi and all connected with the Tregaron division." It was agreed that each Guardian should send a list of all persons in their parish to Mr Rees Row- lands, relieving officer, not later than next Tuesday. DAVID WILLIAMS, MASON, TREGARON. A neighbour appeared on behalf of the above and complained that the Guardians did not con- tribute enough towards this old man. She stated that he was unwell, and was unable to come before the Guardians. Mr Rees Evans proposed that Is. extra weekly be given. Mr R. James seconded, and this was agreed to. THE TOWN HALL. The sum of £2 was due to the estate for rent. The Clerk, Mr D. J. Williams, and the Medical Officer of Health were appointed delegates to appear before the agents and report the bad state of the furniture and the room. Mr David Davies was also appointed to appear on behalf of the district council and report the state of the market field. BASIS OF THE COUNTY VALUATION. The Clerk stated that the new basis had been made. Mr D. J. Williams proposed that the Clerk should visit Mr Wilson, surveyor of taxes, and compare the surveyor's list with that of Blaenpennal more especially. FINANCE COMMITTEE. This Committee met under the presidency of Mr. Richard Jones. No important business was done. Bills were examined and recommended for pay- ment. RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL. { The fortnightly meeting of this Council was held at the Town Hall on Tuesday, when there were present Mr. D. Davies, chairman, presiding Rev. T. R. Morgan, vice-chairman; Messrs. E. Evans, D. Lodwick, D. J. Williams, J. Owens, R. Jones, E. Lloyd, Rees Evans, Thos. Edwards, David Williams, Wm. Jones, H. Herberts, R. James, and Peter Davies, with Mr. J. Lloyd, clerk; Mr. J. O. Rees, -anitary inspector; and Mr. Morgan Jones and Mr. S. Tregoning, surveyors. DRAINAGE OF FENTRE. The Inspector suggested that the sewer of the three houses at Pentre, belonging to Jonathan Thomas, should be connected with the main sewer, as the refuse was now thrown into the streets.-Mr. J. Jones proposed and Mr. Peter Davies seconded, that the Chairman and Inspector should visit the place to see what could be done, and this was agreed to. PONTABGAMDDWB ARMS. The Inspector reported that the back premises of this place were in a bad state.—Mr. R. Jones proposed, and it was carried, that a final notice be served on the owners to have the defects remedied. LLANGBITHO DRAINAGE. The Inspector reported that the contractor (Mr. Evan Williams) had applied for an increase of salary owing to additional work.—On the proposition of Mr Peter Davies, seconded by Mr. E. Evans, it was agreed that an advance of 2s. be quarter be given. DISPOSAL OF REFUSE. Mr. Rees Evans stated that as the road through Pentre was in a good condition he proposed that the inspector should prevent, as far as possible, the habit of throwing refuse into the street.—This wae agreed to. LLANGHITHO I OID. The Clerk stated that he had received two letters from the County Surveyor complaining of the poor state of the road to Llangeitho.—Messrs. Rees Morrie and Evan Jones also complained of the state of the road.—Mr. Peter Davies stated that the road had not long been in this condition—only since the cartage towards the drainage, &c., had been in progress.—On the proposition of Mr. Peter Davies, seconded by lr. R. Jones, it was agreed that the inspector should I visit the place, and do what was necessary in repair- ing the road. WATER RATES. T Clei"k reac* a list of all persons who had not paid the water rates.-Mr. Richard Jones proposed, and Mr. Lewis Oliver seconded, that the sums be disallowed owing to inability to pay. MEDICAL OFFICER'S SALARY. The letter from the Local Government Board regarding the smallness of the salarv now paid to Lloj'4 as nied»cal officer of health for the district, was again read, with the view to further considera- 'un; R'chard Jones I see by some newspapers that the s;uarv is raised, and others that it is enough. Perhaps the Doctor will not accept more.—Mr. Llovd I ^af^-fiind^that the J^ctor applies for an increase," fu J. af ljere know better about his salary han thp_ L°ard m London.— In replv to Wm. Jones, the Chairman stated that Mr. Bircham simply mentioned that an increase of ClO would satisfy them. Mr. VI m. Jones proposed that two doctors be appointed it the salary oi the present one was raised, as previous councils had two doctors. He did not favour Dr. Morgan because lie lived near him, but he should like to make peace between the two, and so satisty the Local Government Board —Mr Llovd proposed, as an amendment that the Council write rl to the Local Government Board stating that the Medical Officer was satisfied with his present salarv and that the matter would be left for this year.Mr. Evans seconded the amendment, and this was agreed to. ° TOLLS. The Rev. T. R. Morgan asked the Clerk to read the application from the Parish Council, which had been previously under consideration with regard to levying tolls on stalls, carts, and merry-go-rounde. attending the fairs and markets. The Parish Council had agreed to levy tolls of 6d. on all traders who brought goods to fairs and markets for sale. The parish of Tregaron is exempted from this tax. A complete report of the Parish Council meeting dealing with this matter, was published in the last issue of the "Welsh Gazette." The result would be that dealers and traders would go more about the country to purchase their stock. He would propose that the Council should call the attention of the Parish Council to rescind their application. Mr. R. Jones seconded the proposition of Mr. Morgan, and it was further agreed that the matter be again considered at the next meeting. ° CAMDDWE FOOTBRIDGE. The Surveyor reported that this footbridge was rotten, and required repairing. The matter was left for a fortnight. WORKMEN'S WAGES. In reply to lr. Evan Lloyd with regard to the com- mittee s report on the above subject, the Chairman replied that the report would be read at the next meeting. DISTRICT GOVERKOR. The Clerk stated that the Council had the authority of appointing a district governor for the Tregaron County School, tenable for five years. The matter was adjourned for a fortnight, owing to several members being absent. VALUATION RATES. Mr. D. J. Williams and the Clerk were appointed to visit the Surveyor of Taxes at Aberystwvth to com- pare the Council's valuation rates with the surveyor's.

TALYBONT. OBITUARY.—It is with regret that we record the J death of Mr. Hughes, chemist, of the Post Office, J which took place on Monday night week last. The deceased gentleman was one of the best known and most useful men in the village, for in addition to his professional business of a chemist, he was also a most reliable and successful veterinary surgeon, and in this capacity he was brought into intimate contact with a large neighbourhood. He was also in charge of the village post office, the duties of which he discharged'for a long period with commendable care and impartiality. Mr. Hughes was a native of Llanfair-Caereinon. and lived at this village for thirty years, having resided for a term of three years at Borth. As a veterinary surgeon he was in great demand, and the farmers of a very wide neighbourhood will miss him keenly. As evidence of the esteem in which he was held it might be mentioned that the funeral was one of the largest and most representative witnessed in the village for many years. This took place on Friday, and the interment was made in the Nazareth burial ground, when Mr. Jenkins, the deceased's pastor, officiated. The deceased, who was 63 years of age, leaves a wife and four children to mourn their loss, and with all of whom much sympathy is expressed.

LLANYBYTHER. BOMB FROM THK WAR.—Gunner J. Y. Jones has returned home wounded from the war. He was attached to the 3rd Field'Battery of the 2nd Ammuni- tion Column, Field Force, and was in action at the battles of Tugela and Colenso. and was injured at the latter, hid horse and a portable magazine falling upon him. He was extricated with great difficulty, and was in a dangerous position. He saw young Lieut. Roberts on the night he had his fatal wound at Colenso, and saw him fall from his horse. Young Roberts was a great favourite with them all. Gunner Jones was for some time at Ketlev Hospital and is now home here on furlough until the 20th March and is expected to sail again for the front on the 25tli. He speaks in the highest terms of General Buller and says he saw him all day long in the firing line cheering and encouraging his men, and it was marvellous how he escaped from time to time. This is not the first time for Jones to have seen active service as he was engaged at Wazaristan in 1894 and 1895 and is the possessor of a medal. At Colenso he was employed as a galloper, carrying ammunition to Colonel Long and was injured in the retreat from Colenso by a Boer overturning his carriage. He is not half well but is anxious to go to the front again. He has a wife and child and was formerly a postman at this village.

BORTH. GOOD NEWS.—The painful state of tension long put here as to the safety of the S.S. Feliciana was fortunately removed this week bv the news of her arrival at Philadelphia on the 27th February. Even the relief of Ladysmith would not have been so great a relief to the inhabitants of Borth as this j announcing the safety of the crew and vessel.

MACHYNLLETH. FORTHCOMING LECTURE.—" Philip Sidney will shortly visit Machynlleth, and will deliver his popular lecture on "A Trip across the American Prairies" in aid of the County School Library Fund. RIFLE SHOOTING.—At the weekly shooting com- y 11 petition organised for the Towyn and Machynlleth volunteer corps, held at Towyn on Saturday last, Mr W. Sadleir, Machynlleth, again won the silver spoon, his scores being 23 at 200, 23 at 500, and 20 at 600, being a total of 66 out of a possible 84. Mr Sadleir has thus won the spoon on two successive Saturdays. CYMREIGYDDION SOCIETY.— The Haul," this week, publishes by consent of the committee, two papers recently read before the members of the Cymreigyddion Society, viz "Yr Orsedd Farddol," by the Rev. Wnion Evans, and Hugh Jones, Maesglasau," by Tegwyn, Dinas Mawddwy. BEGGING ALMS.—On Thursday last, William Hughes, of no fixed abode, was brought up before Mr Richard Rees at a special sitting of the Petty Sessions, charged with begging alms on the 21st inst at Machynlleth P.C. Pugh gave evidence, but accused was discharged on promising to leave the town. TENANT V. LANDLORD.—Mr. Justice Channell was engaged at the Montgomeryshire Assizes last week in hearing an action brought by Evan Owen, farmer, formerly of Ceniarth Farm, Machynlleth, against his former landlord, William E. G. Pritchard, of Ceniarth Hall, Machynlleth, to recover £121 8s. 8d. for sheep and manure sold to the defendant and for damages caused to fences, &c. The defendant counterclaimed £ 88 5s. 6d. for want of repairs. Judgment was given for the plaintiff on the claim for £71 7s. lid., and for the defendant on the counterclaim for le32 10s., each party to pay his own costs from the date of the interlocutory judgment. COUNTY SCHOOL GOVERNING BODY.—A meeting of this Body was called for Friday afternoon last, at the County School, when the members who put in an appearance were Messrs. Edward Rees, John Thomas, W. M. Jones, and Dr Davies. As these gentlemen did not constitute a quorum, it was resolved to adjourn the meeting until a fortnight hence. A few matters were discussed informally, however, the Clerk (Mr J. Rowlands) stating that there was a considerable amount outstanding in school fees. It was decided that the Clerk make application for these fees, which should be paid before the annual meeting, to be held shortly.— Dissatisfaction was expressed at the slow progress made by the contractor in laying out the recrea- tion ground in front of the school, and it was agreed that he be waited upon and urged to com- plete the work as soon as possible. DISASTROUS FIRE.—On Friday night last a serious fire broke out at the Saw Mills, near the Railway Station, which caused considerable damage The outbreak was first noticed by the engine cleaners in the employ of the Cambrian Railway Company, and they immediately raised the alarm. The facilities at hand, however, to cope with the fire were very inadequate, the only place at which water could be procured being the railway company's tank on thet station platform, from whence it had to be carried in buckets. In a short time, therefore, the wooden sheds were completely burnt down, leaving the valuable stationery engine circular saws, etc., one mass of red hot iron. Fortunately, the contents of the office were, with difficulty, rescued from the flames. The origin of the fire is unknown. The saw mills were the property of Mr R. Owen, timber merchant, Nawlyn, to whom much sympathy is extended in his loss, the amount of damage being estimated at E800, none of which was covered by insurance. A large number of men will also be thrown out of em- jployment as the result of the fire. GRAIG LITERARY SOCIETY.—A meeting of the Graig (Congregational) Literary Society was held on Thursday evening last, when an edifying paper on the opportune subject of Dyledswydd Ymneill- duaeth yn wyneb ymdrechion diweddaf Eglwys Rhufain i adenill Cymru i'r Babaeth (" The duty of Nonconformity in face of the latest efforts by the Church of Rome to again win Wales to Catholicism") was read by Mr. E. Jones, B.A. Comments on the paper were afterwards made by the chairman (Rev. Josiah Jones) Mr. T. R. Morgan, and others. GOVERNMENT AND RIFLE RANGES.—In the House of Commons on Tuesday, Lieutenant-colonel Pryce Jones asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether the Government had a large sum of money in hand intended to be spent on the con- struction of rifle ranges availaole for Volunteer practice; if so, whether he was aware that there was a suitable site at Machynlleth, in the county of Montgomeryshire, and what steps were being taken to secure the same, and whether the Government were prepared to allocate a portion of the above sum to the purchase of this site and construction of a rifle range thereon. Mr Powell Williams, financial secretary to the War Office, replied Ithat a considerable sum of money was being provided to assist Volunteer corps in the provision of ranges. Nothing was known at the War Office of the particular site referred to by the hon. member, but the general officer commanding in the district would be requested to furnish a report upon it. LITERARY MEETING.— On Monday evening a successful literary meeting was held at Poplar- square Methodist Chapel, under the auspices of the Sunday School, when Mr. W. M. Jones presided over a large attendance. The duties of conductor devolved upon Mr. David Ll. Jones, the Bank. The programme gone through was as follows:—Part song by the Choir; Chairman's address; song, Mr. John Owen; recitation, Mary Amelia Hughes; song, Sidney Humphreys; song, David Morris; violin solo, John Roberts; reading competition, prize won by John R. Williams song, Miss Frances Lewis song, Mr. J. R. Williams and friends examination in knowledge of the first four chapters of Rhodd Mam," by Mr. D. Lloyd Davies, best Charles Ansley; quartette, Mr. J. R. Williams and friends; recitation, Ellen A. Owen; solo, Mr. J. R. Williams; impromptu speaking competition, 1 Mr. Ed. Owen song, Miss M. Davies; examination in knowledge in the first two chapters of the Hyfforddwr," 1, Edward Owen; 2, Emrys Jones; song, Mr. John Owen examination in knowledge of the 8th chapter of the Hyfforddwr," Jennie Owen and Jennie Williams (equal); song, Miss Mary Lumley song, Mrs Henry Lewis, Tower House; mouth organ solo, Wm. Vaughan; song, the Choir. During the evening Masters Richard Lloyd and Emrys Jones were presented with suit- able books for their missionary work in connection with the Sunday School. Prizes were also distri- buted to the successful scholars in the different standards as follows :—Elementary, Jennie Lloyd, Cassie Williams, and Lewis J. Williams; class 6, Edward Owen; class 8, Jennie Williams and Jennie Owens. The adjudicators and examiners in the various competitions were Messrs D. Lloyd Jones, W. M. Jones, E. Jones, and Edward Morgan. BANKRUPTCY.-At the Town Hall, Aberystwyth, on Tuesday, the Examination in Bankruptcy was held into the affairs of Henry Hughes, Tymawr, Llanbrynmair, in the County of Montgomery, farmer and butcher, before Mr. Thomas Thomas (official receiver). The debtor's gross liabilities were estimated at "0 lis, and his assets, after deducting P,70 8s 6d preferential claims, at £ 154 1111 6d, leaving a deficiency of L315 11s Od. The bankrupt attributed his failure to losses in carrying on the business of butcher, to the high rent of accommodation land, to depression in farming, and to the fact of having a large family to support. The receiving order and adjudication were made upon the debtor's own petition. He stated that he commenced business as a butcher about 20 years ago, and in November, 1892, he took the farm of Tymawr, which he now occupies, having at that time no capital The books of account in the butcher's business are defective, inasmuch as they only relate to debts due to him. Of the L470 2s. 6d., the amount scheduled as unsecured creditors, L278 is due to creditors for moneys borrowed, and the remainder is for cattle and sheep purchased by him. On the 29th ult., an execution for Z214 and costs was levied upon the bankrupt's effect, and a sale thereunder was advertised for Friday last. The sale, however, did not take place, the Sheriff having, on receipt of notice of Tuesday's proceed- ings, withdrawn from possession. The preferential claims included in the statement are four year's rent due 25th March next, payable in advance, also Zll 6s. 8d., being four months' wages stated to be due to bankrupt's three children. In the deficiency account, submitted by the bankrupt, he stated that he had not made any profits for the last three years. The examination was adjourned for a month, the debtor to supply an amended cash account. ABERYSTWYTH COUNTY SCHOOL V MACHYNLLETH COUNTY SCHOOL. At Machynlleth on Saturday, February 24th, Machynlleth won the toss and Owen kicked off for Aberystwyth. After some play in mid-field Aberystwyth took the ball down the field and secured a corner but failed to score, and Machynlleth clearing took the ball by a good run to the other end of the field, but were pulled up for off-side. They were not however to be denied, and Morris Morris put out one hard shot, only to have the ball returned hard on him, and the first goal was put to the credit of Machynlleth. From the kick off Owen and Peake by very neat passing work took the ball down into Machynlleth quarters, Owen transferred to Epworth, who put in a good shot which however failed to score. The play ruled even for the whole of the first half, both sides doing good work in all parts of the field, and pressing in turn. Peake, the latest addition to the Aberystwith forward line, fully justified his selection and proved a valuable partner to Owen in the centre. Just before half-time, Owen got through the opposing backs and looked dangerous, but was overtaken by the Machynlleth left-back before he got his shot in. After half-time the game was renewed with the same vigour as before, and after a little time Epworth took the ball down the wing by a good run, put in a good centre, and Owen and Peake took the ball right into goal, Peake doing the needful and equalising for Aberystwyth. Alternate attacking by both sides followed, but towards the end of the game the play became less interesting, Aberystwyth assuming defensive tactics to a greater extent than was necessary, and time was called without the score being added to. Final score: Machynlleth 1. Aberystwythl. The Aberystwyth team was:- Goal—Morris backs-J. Davies, D. E. Evans; half-backs—G. D. Ellis, D. Jenkins, J. A. Jones forwards-Epworth Davies, Arthur Williams, S. O. Owen, R. Peake, D. J. Jones. COUNTY COURT.—WEDNESDAY, FEB. 21ST. Before Mr. Wm. Evans. APPLICATION FOR NEW TRIAL.—An application was made by Mr. John Jenkins, solicitor, on behalf of David Hood, for a new trial in an action for wages against Evan Jones, but this was refused. ACTION FOR TRESPASS.—Owen Jones, Pennal, sued Richard Jones, of the same place, for a sum of £18, as damages for trespass by cattle and sheep. There was a counter-claim by Jones. By consent of both parties the case was referred to two local farmers for settlement. Plaintiff was represented by Mr. J. Jenkins, and defendant by Mr. W. P. Owen. AN ABERDOVEY CASE.-F. W. Hopkins, architect, late of Aberdovey, brought an action against J. Hughes Jones, merchant, Aberdovey, to recover £18 5s. for professional services rendered. Mr. J. Jenkins appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr. A. J. Hughes, Aberystwyth, defended. Judgment was given for the defendant. GOODS SOLD AND DELIVERED.-Griffith Davies, merchant, Aberdovey, brought a claim of £7 16s. 5d. against John, Charles, and Elizabeth Tomkins, of the same place, for goods sold and delivered. Plaintiff was represented by Mr. J. Jenkins, and defendants by Mr. A. J. Hughes. Judgment was given for plaintiff for the whole amount against the three defendants, who 'were ordered to pay 5s. a month between them.