Welsh Gazette and West Wales Advertiser

Cardigan County Council. THE EDUCATION BILL. TECHNICAL INSTRUCTION SCHOLARSHIPS. FISHERY INVESTIGATION IN CARDIGAN BAY. THE MAIN ROADS QUESTION. ABERYSTWYTH AND ABERAYRON LIGHT RAILWAY. ——— I A PROTRACTED DISCUSSION. The quarterly meeting of the Cardigan County Oouncil was held on Thursday, July 18th, at the Town Hall, Lampeter, Colonel Howell, Pantgwyn (chairman), presiding. There were also present Aldermen Peter Jones and C. M. Williams, Aber- ystwyth; D. J. Williams, Tregaron Evan Richards, Penuwchfawr; J. T. Morgan, Maesnewydd; Walter T. Davies, Felinfach; W. Griffiths, Llanllwchaiarn J. M. Howell, Aberayron; Sir Marteine Lloyd, Bronwydd; and T. H. R. Hughes, Neuaddfawr; Councillors D. C. Roberts, Robert Ellis, E. H. James, and R. J. Jones, Abcrystwyth; Edw Jones, Talybont Benjamin Jones, Llanilar; David Mor- gan, Llanfihangel-y-croyddyn; Edward Evans, Strata Florida; D. Davies, Llanddewi Brefi Dr Evan Lloyd, Tregaron Daniel Jenkins, Nantcwn- Ile; David Jones, Penrhyn E. Lima Jones, Aber- ayron; Jenkin Lewis, Cilcenin; J. C. Harford, -Lampeter; E. J. Davies, New Quay T. G. Davies, Llandyssiliogogo; Thomas Morris, Troedyraur; William Morgan, Llanllwchaiarn James Steohens, Cardigan; Evan Morgan, Llansantffread; D. Evans, Llandyssul (north); D. Morgan James, Llanrhystyd; Rev T. Pennant Phillips, Llandyssul; and Dr Evan Evans, Felinfach; with Mr H. C Fryer (clerk), Messrs Roderick Lloyd and Dd. Davies (surveyors), Mr llowel Evans (chief constable), and superinten- dent Williams (deputy chief constable). INCONVENIENT TRAIN* ARRANGEMENTS. The Chairman at the outset said no doubt a great many of the members, like himself, had been terribly inconvenienced by the train alterations on the M. and M. Railway. He believed the gentle- men from the North had had to kink their heels about in Lampeter for an hour and three quarters, and they from the South had had to come all the way by road or not come at all. He, himself, had b oo start at seven o'clock that morning, and had aeen on the road until nearly eleven o'clock. It tppeared according to the standing orders that hey had no power to alter the time of holding the meetings, but if they could hold their meetings at twelve o'clock while the trains arrangements re- mained as at present everyone from North and South could have convenient trains and arrive at Lampeter in time. He would like to ask the Clerk whether there were any means of altering the time of their meetings until twelve o'clock. The Clerk said the dates of meetings could only be altered by the Council itself, but there was another standing order which gave the cliairman and clerk the power of altering the time of meet- ings where found necessary. Alderman Peter Jones proposed the suspension of the standing orders to pass a resolution authorising the chairman to fix the times of meetings. This was agreed to, and the resolution was carried. ABSENCE. The Clerk read a letter from Mr Vaughan Davies, M.P., regretting his inability to be present, he 11 1 having to attend an important meeting in connec- tion with the Education Bill on that day. HORTICULTURE. The Clerk intimated he had received a letter from the Board of Education enclosing copy of a minute authorising horticulture as a subject of in- struction under the Technical Instruction Act. It transpired, be said, at the audit of the Councils accounts last year that the County Council had been giving instruction in horticulture, and in looking up the Acts it seemed there was no actual power under the Technical Instruction Act to give such instruction. Therefore, lie made application to the Board of Education, and they had now sanctioned the instruction being given, and this minute was to be laid before both Houses of Parliament. THE EDUCATION* BILL. The Clerk said he had received a communication from the Board of Education on the subject of the temporary Education Bill now before Parliament, a copy of which was enclosed. The Clerk explained that the Act was merely intended for one year, to enable the County Councils to give help to School .Boards to carry on evening qlasses, which had been rendered illegal by the the Cockerton judgment. The Board said if this Council was not prepared to take upon itself the power of carrying on these schools, or classes, then they could gi/e the power to borough or urban district councils. The question was whether this Council would take upon itself the authority supposing the Bill was passed. Mr R. J. Jones asked whether they could not consider it after the Bill was passed. The Clerk explained that the Council did not meet for another three months, and he anticipated that the bill would be passed in a modified form within the next month. There were only two or three places in the county which would be affected by it. Mr Daniel Jenkins said it was necessary to make some arrangement at this meeting. The evening schools would commence in September, and appli- cations would have to be sent in by the beginning of August Alderman Peter Jones said inasmuch as the applications in connection with the evening con- tinuation schools had to be sent in by the beginning of August, and when tiny siw the uncertainty with regard to this, he did not think it would be too much to let the various School Boards take the responsibility on their own shoulders. He saw some school Boards had done so, as in the case of Manchester, which had the most complete system of technical education in the country. With regard to thi-i new Bill, he thought it was so unworkable as far as Cardiganshire was concerned, that they had no alternative but to let it lie on the table, leaving each district to make what arrangements it could. It seemed unreasonable that the county authority should be called together to consider an application or two in regard to evening schools. Whatever the disadvantages were, they must pat up with them. It was more than they bad a right to expect from the members of the County Council, and he proposed that no action be taken. Mr R. J. Jones seconded, and the proposition was unanimously agreed to. C, PROTECTION OF WILD BIRDS. The Clerk reported be had applied to the Home Secretary for an order under the Wild Birds' Pro- tection Act, and he bad received a reply stating it was necessary that special reasons should be given in support of the demands under clauses A, etc. He (the clerk) bad drafted a resolution, which would he found in the minutes, which he would ask the Council to confirm if it was approved of. Mr Daniel Jenkins Did we not understand that Mr Morgan Evans was to supply us with the Welsh names of all these birds? (Laughter). The Clerk It was suggested that the question might be brought before the inspectors of schools, so that pictures and descriptions of the birds could be placed in the various schools. On the motion of Alderman Peter Jones, seconded by Mr Thomas Morris, the chairman was authorised to sign the resolution drawn up by the Clerk. WEIGHTS AND MEASURES FEES. The Clerk said he had received a letter from the County Council's Association bearing upon the case of King v Roberts, which raised the question of whether the County Council had the power to remit the fees taken by the inspector of0 weights and measures for stamping ana verifying. ~The decision of the Court was that a County Council had no power to remit such fees. He (the Clerk) remembered that the auditor a year or two ago brought the question forward, and asked whether it was worth their while to gather in all these very small fees. Would not the verifications of weights and measures be better done if the Council re- mitted all the fees, and did the work for ',Dothiniz ? He did not tnink the County Council would listen to that, but would prefer to get in the fees. A deputation had been before Mr Gerald Baliour ask- ing hirn to initiate legislation giving County Coun- cils power, if they chose, to remit those fees. The Council expressed no opinion on the ques- tion, and passed on to the next business. THE DEVIL'S BRIDGE. The Clerk reported he had received a letter from the proprietor of the hotel at Ponterwyd, begging the Council to delay the alterations to the Devil's Bridge until the season was over. The Clerk ex- plained there had been great delay, the steel work having been lying at Aberystwyth Station for the last fortnight or more, the contractor not having been able to make arrangements to take it up. No harm would accrue to the country if the work was delayed now in the height of the season. The lessee of the Devil's Bridge Hotel had called upon him with regard to the mat ter, and said it would be a source of great loss if the bridge was taken down now, and he was anxious that the work should be postponed for five or six weeks. Mr Roderick Lloyd, the surveyor, was also of opinion that it would be to the advantage of the neighbour hood if the work was delayed. Alderman Peter Jones proposed t' at the matter be referred to the executive committee of the Northern Division, and that they be authorised to act in the matter. There was a legal question in- volved, but if they could get the contractor's assent in writing to the delay there need be no fear. In the meantime, the Clerk could write to the con- tractor. Mr Daniel Jenkins seconded, and the resolution was carried. APPOINTMENT. A letter was read from Mrs Fryer, declining the appointment of member of the County Governing Body, which the Council had honoured her with at the previous meeting. While sincerely thanking the Council for the honour conferred upon her, she regretted not being able to accept the appointment, owing to her want of knowledge of the work of that body, and the fact that she had no aptitude or inclination for public work. The appointment \vas now deferred until the next meeting. NOHTHERN MAlN ROADS. The report of the Northern Main Roads Com- mittee was submitted by Alderman C. M. Williams in the absence of Mr Thomas Morgan (chairman),. owing to family bereavement, and was unani- mously adopted. The Clerk said he had received a communication from Messrs Roberts and Evans, solicitors, regard- ing the claim of Mr John Evans, Rhydyronen, Tre- garon, for compensation for the loss of a horse which fell over Devil's Bridge. On the motion of Alderman Jones the letter was referred to the Main Roads Committee. SOUTHERN MAII., ROADS. The report of the Southern Main Roads Com- mittee was presented by Mr Thomas Evars. It stated that a question was raised as to the ad- vanced age of several of the roadmen, and the sur- veyor was directsd to bring in to the next meeting a statement as to the capabilities of each roadman employed whose age exceeded 65 years. The com- mittee recommended (1) That the parapet and coping on the unrepaired side of Cwmcoi Bridge be rebuilt and put into thorough repair at a cost not to exceed £20, tenders for the work being invited. (2) That the surveyor -value and deduct from the contract price of the work first tendered for a fair sum in respect of the repairs specified but not now to be carried out and (.1) that toe estimate or ex- penditure of k450 for the quarter be allowed. The Surveyor having reported on the desirability of erecting a culvert over Ffynon Dewi stream, the committee recommended that the same be done, at a cost not exceeding £60. Mr Lima Jones had moved a resolution to provide the roadmen with waterproof capes, gaiters, and hats, the committee only recommended the supplying of waterproof capes, to be the property of the Council, and to be renewed every three years. The Chairman had drawn attention to the fact that a postal letter box had been affixed to a direction post without any reference given to, or leave given by, the County Council, and the Surveyor explained that his sanction had been asked and given. Questions were asked as to the position of matters with re- gard to the proposed culvert at New Quay, and the clerk explained that the agreement for carrying out the arrangement made with the Urban Council had been sealed and duly signed by the Chairman of the Council at the last meeting, but that the Urban Council were not willing to execute it with- out definite particulars as to the exact length of the culvert to he built and of the road to be sup- ported and maintained, and the surveyor was directed to supply these particulars forthwith and to lay them down clearly on a plan to be added to the agreement. Alderman J. M. Howell mentioned the subject of the projected Light Railway between Aberystwyth and Aberayron, and hoped that the County Council would strongly support the pro- ject. The Clerk explained the portion of matters so far as was known to him, and stated that be believed a motion on the subject would be placed on the agenda for the forthcoming County Council meeting. I Alderman C. M. Williams having raised the question, it was decided that the waterproof capes to be supplied the roallmen should not exceed a cost of 7s 6d each, and that they be provided for all the Councils roadmen throughout the county. In regard to the New Quay calvert, Mr J. C. Harford strongly advocated that the county surveyor should meet the district surveyor, which would save a lot of bother. They went on for seven years with regard to the Lampeter roads, until the Council were good enough to let the two surveyors meet, and then it took only two hours. The Surveyor said he had gone to New Quay as instructed, and sent bis measurements to the clerk of the District Council. Mr E. J. Davies said he understood that a meet- ing of the Urban District Council was held on Tuesday, when the county surveyor's measurements were accepted. Alderman J. M. Howell asked whether the surveyor could give permission to fix letter boxes to direction posts. Alderman C. M. Williams said if the postal authorities desired to put up boxes for the con- venience of the general public, he thought the surveyor could give permission during the pleasure of the Council. If an application came in immediately afrer a Council meeting, it would be rather bard to inconvenience a district for three months. It was then agreed that the surveyor give permission to erect let ter boxes whenever necessary subject to the approval of the Council. The whole report was then unanimously adopted. FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE. The report of this committee was submitted by Mr Evan Hugh James, chairman. The total receipts during the quarter and balance from previous quarter amounted to Z6579 16s 7d, and the expenditure during the quarter to R3847 Is 111, leaving a balance Z2732 15s 6d in hand. The committee recommended the payment of £4 4s 8d, beinz this county's portion of the annual pension of S43 Is 5d payable to Thomas Griffiths, formerly warder at Cardigan Prison.—Bills sent in by Messrs R. D. Williams, of Aberystwyth, and J. A. Evans, of Llandyssul (veterinary surgeons), were referred back for particulars as to the senders of the samples of wool for microscopical examination, and as to the results of the inspection in each case. the samples found to be infected with scab to be specified.—The application of Mr Roderick Lloyd, surveyor, for an increase of salary, had been deferred to the nexi meeting of the committee, in order that the clerk might obtain particulars as to the salaries paid to road officials in the adjoining counties of Wales. The Clerk having stated that the dates of the Council meetings fixed at the last meeting did no; admit of the meetings of the Standing Joint Committee being held between the termination of each quarter and the meeting of the Finance Committee, it was recommended that the future meetings of the County Council be held on the first Thursday in the months of May, August, November, and August. Alderman Peter.Jones proposed the confirmation of the recommendation, with the addition that the hour of meeting be fixed by the chairman. They had had an instance that day of the inconvenience arising owing to the alteration in the railway arrangements, which made it almost impossible for some members to be present at the meeting in time. Mr Morgan James seconded, and the resolution was carried. Mr Lima Jones drew attention to the fact that as it was recommended that the next meeting of the Technical Instruction Committee be held at Aber- ystwyth, be proposed that the next meeting of the Finance Committee, which met on the same day, be also held at Aberystwyth, so that those who were members of both committees could attend both. Mr Morgan James drew attention to a minute in the Technical Instruction Committee's report, which recommended that in fujfare the two summer ( meetings of this committee and of the Finance 1 and General Purposes Committee be held at Aber- ) ystwyth, and the two winter meetings of both < bodies at Lampeter. The recommendation was j ascribed to him, but he did not propose it (laughter). He thought it covered what Mr Lima < Jones required. t Mr Lima Jones: I don't think anything of the kind. The Technical Instruction Committee does not govern the acts of the Finance Committee. The Council governs all. The Chairman, referring to the Aberystwyth meetings, said supposing any members from Cardigan wished to attend, how on earth could they get to Aberystwyth. Mr Lima Jones I appreciate that difficulty, but, I only move it for this occasion. This refers to the next meeting only. Dr Jenkvn Lewis seconded the resolution. Mr Danial Jenkins said he had nQ objection to p Abervstwvtb, but it might be inconvenient for the members from the lower part of the county. Mr E. J. Davies said it was stated at the last meeting of the Technical Instruction Committee that it would be advisable to meet at Aberystwyth next time, as the committee would then be able to see all those who had availed themselves of the scholarships in full working order at the College. Mr Lima Jones' F)roposil ion was then agreed to, and the whole report. adopted. TECHNICAL INSTRUCTION COMMITTEE. The report of this committee was submitted by Mr Robert Ellis. It stated that no applications having been received from the Cardigan Union, and one only from Newcastle Emlyn, it was decided to allocate the twelve" scholarships at the advanced dairy school, for which there were twenty-seven applicants as follows :—Aberayron Union—Mary A. Richards, Brynog Arms. Talsarn. Aberystwyth- Mary Jenkins, Sil<lh Cottage, Penrhyncoch; Annie Jones, Po: t Office, Penrhvncoch; Mary Jones, Ffosygravfl Uchn, Bovth; Lydia Morgan. Caer Villa, Bow St reef; Kntie Morgan, Tynllwyn, Devil's Bridge. Tregaron—Margaret Morgan,Ystrad Dewi, Lianio Road; Anne Jenkins, Trecefel, Tregaron; Mary Howells, hafod, Nantcwnlle. Lampeter- Dinah Jones, Caerau, Llanybyther; Sarah Richards, Penlan, Llanfairclydogau. Newcastle Einlyn- Margaret Davies, Castell Hywell, Llandyssul. Alderman C. M. Williams said the arrangements made with the College in reference to this depart- ment wore purely temporary for this summer, otherwise be would have moveii an Hmendment that none of these scholarships be jranUMi. It was further reported that Principal Hoberts attended the Committee, and discussed questions relating to the syllabus for the Farmers" Short Course and the desirability "f limiting the number of subjects to be taught. Mr Evan Evans specified certain matters which might usefully be made the subjects of lecture, e.g., the economical disposal of refuse, and the prevention of diseases of animals, which the Principal promised should be considered. Applications having been received from the follow- ing centres, it was resolved that a travelling dairy ;school be held in the Tregoes district, and cooking (classes at Felinfach and Llanarth, the College 'authorities being requited to depute Miss Thomas to conduct these classes and school. In response to applications, it was also resolved that courses of lectures and demonstrations in horticulture be given at Llanarth, T'rewen, Talybont, Devil's Bridge, and Llanrhystyd, in addition to the courses already held at Brongest and Maesllyn combined, and arranged for at Caer Wedrws. and Blaenporth and Penmorfa combined. Mr Ellis said an application had also been received from Cribyn, for a course of lectures in horticulture and bee-keeping, and he proposed that this also be granted. Mr Davies, the member for the district, seconded and the resolution was agreed to. With regard to the short course in horticulture for schoolmasters, to commence in the second or third week of August, the clerk was directed to send printed circulars to masters in the county to inform them of the course and the grants to be made, and it was resolved that the award of the grants of 30s each to 15 masters be left to the de- cision of the members of the committee within the Aberystwyth Union. Four students who attended the last short course for farmers, being named by the College authorities as qualified for the Ad- vanced Short Course Scholarships, it was resolved that the additional scholarship granted by the Council be awarded to David Jones, of Caerau, Llanwenog, and that the other two scholarships be offered to the remaining students in order of merit. The whole report was then accepted. FISHERY INVESTIGATION. I A resolution had been placed on the agenda to consider the propriety of making a grant towards the salary (estimated at £100) of a trained fishery expert to be engaged in investigations at Aberyst- wyth and elsewhere in Card gan Bay. The Clerk explained he had received a letter from the Clerk of the Lancashire and Western Sea Fisheries Com- mittee, who had been approached by the Aberyst- wyth College authorities, asking them to make arrangements for a trained expert to be employed to make investigations. The committee decided they had no power to use their funds for that pur- pose, and directed this application to be sent to the County Council, expressing the hope that the Council would be able to see its way clear to make a grant out of the money set aside for technical in- struction purposes. Mr Daniel Jenkins enquired whether it was to be a permanent appointment or simply to conduct a series of experiments. Alderman Peter Jones said he believed it was hopeful that it would bring about such a result as would establish something permanent in connec- tion with the fishing industry. It was contemplated, as far as Aberystwyth was concerned, to incur an outlay of £3.000 or Z4,000, by providing an aquarium to study the habits of fish, which would be invaluable in connection with the fishing industry, and be a source of revenue op the sea- board of Cardigan Bay. All that was aslied, as be understood, by the College authorities, was that they wished to start these experiments as early as they could, and were asking tlie uounty Council of Cardigan to contribute toward the expense incidental to the engagement of a man specially for this one particular department. There were one or two departments in connection with the College which would be of material assistance to this new departure. No charge would be made for these services but merely for the extra services required, and the question arose whether they would be justified in voting a sum of money for this purpose, which he was hopeful would have far- reaching and beneficial effects. He proposed that they votfla sum of £25 for one year and see what the result would be and if it was satisfactory they cou'd vote a similar sum again next year. Alderman C. M. Williams asked would it not be better if the clerk communicated with the other County Councils interested in the Cardigan Bay fisheries. If they could get the co-operation ot the other counties they might have a very good man. Merionetbshire and Carnarvonshire were connected with the Lancashire and Western Sea Fisheries, and they did not know yet what those counties would do. He thought the matter should be referred to the Technical Instruction Committee, and then the clerk could get the necessary informa- tion. Alderman Peter Jones said the only reason why he proposed it was that the initial step had to be taken by someone, and they could have the details to be considered by the Technical Instruction Com- mittee. He considered they could formally agree to an expenditure of -025, and if the details could not be agreed upon, then the expense would not be incurred. He thought the matter was of sufficient importance to them that they should take the initiative. Mr Lima Jones said he would not object to this grant on this occasion, but would object to being made a continuous grant. Cardigan Bay was well- known to be the happy hunting ground of private boats. They; as a county, got very little benefit from it. He would agree with a vote as an experimental vote, but he would certainly object to its being continued indefinitely. Further discussion followed, during which Mr Morgan James said they had lived for 13 years without it. and surely they could live another 13 weeks, so he proposed that the matter be referred to the Technical Instruction Committee. Mr Pennant Phillips seconded. Alderman C. M. Williams said if Alderman Jones added to his resolution that. the vote was made subject to the co-operation of the other counties he would agree to it. Mr D. C. Roberts said there was an advantage in passing a definite resolution, and affixing a definite sum to it. This was something that, was to be done in their own county, and they would have assistance from the other counties when they knew that Cardiganshire itself accepted the scheme. The resolution was then amended to read "That this Council is prepared to contribute its fair pro- portion, not to exceed P,25, subject to the details of the scheme b.imr satisfactory to the Technical Instruction Committee," and in this form it was carried. MANUAL TRAINING. Another resolution on the agenda was the propriety of joining the College in engaging an expert instructor in manual training, both to teach at the College and to hold classes at selected centres in the county. On the motion of Alderman C. M. Williams, seconded by Mr R. J. Jones. this was referred to the Technical Instruction Committee. MAIN ROADS—A NEW ARRANGEMENT. The report of a special committee on Main Roads, with special reference to roads within the borough towns, was submitted by Mr Thomas Evans. It stated that statements of the expenditure upon borough main roads during a period of three years, snded 31st March, 1901, received from the town clerks of Aberystwyth and Cardigan, were laid before the committee and examined, and it was •esolved—" That subject to the condition that all claims already made for payments in respect of pavements alongside main roads in each Borough Pnwn be withdrawn, and that legal agreements be entered into binding the respective Town Councils o abstain from making any future claims in respect )f such pavements or in resoect of sewers, watering )r scavenging on the said main roads, it be recom- mended that, the following roads and streets be declared main roads and provisional orders to that effect he made forthwith, viz P.orough of Lampeter.—The road from the corner of Station-terrace to the entrance to the Railway Station premises (about 300 yards in length; and in Bridge-street the length between Harford-square and the old main road leading to Carmarthenshire (120 yards). Borough of Cardigan.—The length from the Bridge approach on the south side to the entrance gate of the Railway Station premises (estimated at 300 yards). Borough of Aberystwyth.—The road from the Trefechan Bridge approach through Mill-street, past the Cambrian Railway Station and through Terrace-road to the present main road in North- parade (about 550 yards in length). That upon the acceptance of the stipulated condi- tions by the respective Town Councils, and upon confirmatory orders declaring the above-named roads main roads being made by the County Council, it be recommended that the following vearlv pavments be made to Town Councils and Urban Authorities towards the costs of the main- tenance and repair, and reasonable improvements connected with the maintenance and repair, of the ( main roads within their boundaries, viz To the < Aherystwyth Town Council in respect of about 2 1 miles 990 yards of main roads, £ 200; to the Car- 1 digan Town Council, in respect of about 3 miles 370 yards of main roads, £ 140; to the Lampeter Town Council, in respect of about 3 miles, £100; ( to the New Quay Urban District Council, in respect of ahont two miles, £ 65 to the Aberayron Urban F Council, in respect of about 1 mile 1,125 yards, ICSO. That t»he same conditions stipulated with the Town Councils as to claims in respect of pavements, sewers, scavenging, and watering shall be applicable also to the Urban Councils, and that the above payments be made on the condition that agree- ments are ma<í1ie to carry the specified conditions into effect.. A tabulated. statement, prepared by the clerk, was laid before the Committee, giving particulars of the mileage of main roads within each Union, and their cost on an average of the past three years. This statement was examined, and, as it appeared that the expenditure in the Newcastle Emlyn Union had been below the proper proportion, it was resolved to reconyuiend: That, in order-to provide access to Newcastle Eiulyn railway Station for the inhabitants of Llangranog, Tresaith, Aberportti, and and other places on the coast, the highway from Cwmcoy to the Gogerddan Arms, or the Cardigan Road, be declared a main road on condition that it is put into proper older, and made of the requisite width throughout by the District Counoils,about.4i miles of this highway being within the Llandyssul Rural,District and about 1 mile within the Cardigan District. In the Tregamn Union it was resolved to recommend that the connecting lengths from Trecefel to Llanio Grossing (2 miles), and from Llanio School to Olmarch Bridge (2 miles) be de- clared main roads, thus providing a continuous main road from Tregaron to Lampeter,, on condi- tion that the Tregaron Rural Council undertake to resume the maintenance and repair of the road from Llwyncelyn to Pant-y-nos (about 2 miles in length). The application of the Abcrayron Rural District Council that the road from Penuwch to Aberarth (about 7 miles in length) should be con- verted into a main road, in order to connect the main roads of the Aberayron and Tregaron Unions at these points—referred to this committee by the County Council—was considered, but the com- mittee were unable to recommend that the applica- tion be entertained, as they found that the Aber- ayron U UiOD already has its full proportion of main roads, both in regard to mileage and expenditure.. The Clerk explained that they were not v<_ry clear as to the portion of road in the Cardigan borough which was to be declared a main road. The resolution bad been diasvn up so as to excerupt any part of the road which, might go through the private ground of the Railway Company. He had received a letter from the Town Clerk of Cardigan stating that the road fromt 'Castle-street! to the Station was a private road,, and had not been dedicated to the public. So he (Mr Fryer) did not know whether there was any public road that could be taken over by the County Council. Alderman Peter Jones proposed that as far as Cardigan was concerned the matter be left in abeyance until the next meeting, and that in the meantime the committee for the Southern Division consider the matter. Alderman C. M. Williams, seconded, and this was agreed to. Mr Lima Jones What was the amount allowed the Corporation of Aberystwyth before The Clerk £ 120. Alderman C. M. Williams said it was only- right to say that the Clerk asked all the borough and urban councils to present a report showing the expenditure on the roads, during the past three years. The Aberystwyth Borough presented a report from their ledgers showing that, the expen- diture by them on main roads was E193 per annum, although they only received £120 per annum, thus losing about £70 per annum for the last three years. The Cardigan return showed that the amount they expended and the amount they received was about equal. The borough of Lampeter did not send in a return. Rev W. Griffiths asked whether the Council had po ver to send its surveyor to see that these roads were kept in proper order. The Clerk explained that by the Act they were prohibited from making payments without, a certificate from the Surveyor that the road had been properly maintained. These certificates had to be laid before the auditor. Rev W. Griffiths: i should like to know if you have a certificate in regard to the New. Quay Road.. The Clerk I have a certificate for the year ending 11th February, 1901, certifying the road to be in a good state of repair (Rev W. Griffiths- Oh ") (laughter.). In reply to a question by Alderman J. M. Howell, the Clerk said the surveyors' certificates would apply only to the surface of the roads, Mr E. J. Davies enquired whether a. statement of the cost of maintenance of the New Quay road was submitted. Alderman C. M. Williams replied in the negative. The thing had been gone into very carafiully a. year or so ago, when New Quay claimed £ 4Q. a mile, but it was cut down to E30 a mile. The committee was anxious to be as liberal as it could to Nt-w Quay, and now increased that amount by £ JL Dr Evans said he thought they should give special consideration to the New Quay. roads, which were very hilly, and cost much more: to maintain 'than a flat road. The Clerk said the rdpds in that district were very narrow, and the water instead of running down the sides, frequently ran dovKia the middle of the roads. Mr E. J. Davies said he had exaaained the books of the Urban Council in consultation with the clerk, and found they spent over £ 80, three years ago on the maintenance of these two miles of road, and tluir average ever since had been £70 a year. He saw that the committee recommended that the terms they had drawn up, be made binding on the Urban Councils, with the additional provision that they were to abstain from making any further claims. He was certain the New Quay Ccu icil would not accept £65. but if they made it C70, he thought they would. As a matter of fact, they did not now spend what they ought to, and if they were given more they would spend more. Mr D, C. Roberts pointed out that the recom- mendations only bound the boroughs and urban councils as to the lengths of main roads. If, in a certain number of years, it was found that more was spent on the roads than was received, then the various councils would have the right to put that before the County Council. The Clerk added that the amounts payable would be liable to constant alterations. Mr E J Davies proposed that New Quay be granted R70 instead of P-65. Alderman C. M. Williams said tw« years ago they had terms from New Quay, when Sir Marteine Lloyd was member for the district, and found that the expenditure then "'as-I if he remembered rightly, something like £ 25 a year, although the 1 9 County Council had been paying for years £ 40. They went carefully into the New Quay account, and he must say that many items had been included which were in no way connected with the main road. They eventually found that P.25 a mile more than covered the expenditure for a year or two, and they paid the New Quay Council at the rate of F,50 a year. Mr Davies' predecessor then made applica- tion for an increase, and the Council increased the amount to £60. The County Council had not since had any returns from New Quay, but the Committee having regard to the slight increase made in other places, granted another increase of £5 without a request of any kind being made. If at the end of three years New Quay could show it had spent more than this amount, it would be entitled to f • frr..Yf il. If 11 • I apply ior an increase J.VJ. me ioiiowing tnree years. Rev W. Griffiths seconded Mr Davies' amendment. The roads. be said, were not in such a condition as they should.be, and what the New Quay authorities said was that they did not get enough money from the County Council to keep them in proper order. All who knew New Quay were aware of the hilly nature of the roads, and it was very expensive to keep them in proper condition. Alderman J. M. Howell said he would be very glad to support the amendment if it was possible to do so. But when New Quay had the arrange- ment of^th.ir cwn roads jjthey f( u id th; t they sj e it only £ 25 a mile. Now tnat they found the County Council was prepared to reimburse them to the amount they spent they said the sum ought to be £ 40. Let the Council give them three years to put the roads in the condition they themselves thought they ought to be, knowing that the Council would reimburse them at the end of the three years. Sir Marteine Lloyd said he hoped the Council would favourably consider the application of New Quay, as it was a great question to them. The hill down to New Quay and tne hill above New Quay were the steepest hills in the whole of Cardigan- shire, and if it was possible they should grant a little more to New Quay. Rev W. Griffiths said the reason why they only spend £ 25 per mile on their roads was that they used to get the stone for nothing from the beach, while be knew of an item of 916 put down in the return as 16s, owing to a clerical error. On a division, only seven voted for the arnend-, ment, which was declared lost. Regarding the re-arrangement of the main roads in the Tregaron district, Mr William Rees said he would second that, as it ought to have been done a long time ago. Mr Morgan James said inasmuch as all this trouble regarding main roads had arisen owing to the action of the Borough of Lampeter, was there reason to believe that this new arrangement would be accepted by them as final. Alderman J, M. Howell: Nobody knows. The Chairman You must ask me an easier one. Mr Harford: I understand there is considerable shance of their being accepted. The report was then adopted in its entirety. PUBLIC HEALTH COMMITTEE. Mr Robt. Ellis moved the adoption of the report )f this committee, in the absence of Dr Evan Evans :cliairman). It fla ed that the chairman reported having perused all the medical officers' 'eports for the past year, which had been handed lim, and commented upon the absence of in forma- ion on many important points observable in most )f the reports. It was resolved that the chairman )e requested to draw up a summary of the reports, s jointing out the defects and omissions voted by ( lim, copies of the summary to be printed and sent to each member of the committee prior to tbe next meeting. A discussion, initiated by the chairman, bad taken place on the need of greater knowledge on sanitary matters, especially by inspector of nuisances in the county, and it was resolved That the Technical Instruction Committee be requested to invite the Councils of the neighbouring WeTh-h Counties to join with Cardiganshire in arrangitig for a course of lectures and conferences on matters of sanitation in the course of the next year at Aberystwyth. The report was unanimously accepted. REPORTS. The reports of the district agricultural analysts, inspectors of weights and measures, and inspectors of contagious diseases of animals, were submitted. Mr Morgan James drew attention to the report of the inspector of weights and measures, in which it was-stated legal proceedings were instituted in seven cases. In the other reports the names of those against whom proceedings bad been taken were embodied in the report, He begged to move that imfuture the inspector of weights and measures be also instructed to give in his report the names and addresses of those against whom proceedings had been taken. MrT-. lhomas, Talgarreg, seconded. Superintendent Williams (the inspector), said it was doubtful in some proceedings whether it was legal to publish the names of persons fined at a police court. He did not know whether the report was considered a private one or not, but very probabiy the names would be published in the newspapers. If the Council ordered him to publish the names he would do so. Eventually, Mr Morgan James' motion was put to the meeting, and carried. ABEBSSTWYTH AND ABERAYRON LIGHT RAILWAY. Alderman Peter Jones proposed the following resolution, of which he bad given notice:—That this County Council of the administrative County of Cardigan recognizes the necessity of, and the benefits that will be secured by, the completion of the authorized extension of the Vale of Rheidol' Light Railway to Aberayron and, being desirous of according the scheme its fullest support, hereby undertakes to co-operate in an application to the Treasury for a free grant towards the construction and completion of the extension; and, subject to the details of the scheme being approved by the Finance Committee, is prepared with the local authorities to subscribe or advance such sum, to be hereafter determined, towards the capital of the Valo- of Ayion light railway Aberayron Extension as may be necessary to secure the special free grant from the Treasury. Alderman Jones said he believed there was was quite a concensus of opinion as to the need of Light Railways in Cardiganshire, and'he did not knuw of any portion of the country generally which would derive greater advantage than this by the construction of a light railway along the seaboard from Aberystwyth in the direction of Cardigan. He hardly knew of any por- tioru which was placed in the unfortunate position of that portion af the county, with 40 miles of sea- board, and no railway communication of any kind. No doubt, they would have to make out a special case to have the "advantage of a free grant from the Treasury, but he thought they could adduce con- vincing proof on several grounds that would justify them in making such an application. In the .first instance, agriculture suffered to a considerable extent owing to the want of facilities in transit. The large sum of money they as a country spent at the present time in importing food stuffs, such as butter, eggs, etc., represented very many millions, and he J.. 1. 'L 1 t uiougnt iney were ait agreed tnat tne production in their own country could be very greatly increased, so that the money, instead of being sent elsewhere in the purchase of those commodities, could be spent in their own country. Further they had also an important fishing industry, and he thought that was increasing and developing very fast, and the great need Nvas improved means of transit. He thought further, viewing it as a question of defence—on strategical grounds—that the advan- tage of having a railway would be very considerable indeed, and he thought when they adduced all these reasons, that they would be certainly suffi- cient to comply with the terms laid down in regard to the assistance rendered to light rail- r ways. Alderman Jones then read extracts from the Light Railway Act, 1896, clause 3 of whioh stated that (1), the council of any county, borough, or district, may, if authorised by an order under this Act, undertake themselves to construct and work, or to contract for the construction or working of the light railway, authorised; (b), advance to a light railway company, either by way of loan or as, part of the share capital of the company, or partly- in one way and partly in the other, any amount authorised by the orderl; (c), join any other council ■ or any person *or body of persons in doing any of the things above mentioned. Alderman Jones continued to say that that was why they asked the County Council to take a share in the respon- sibility in a pecuniary sense, that would enablte them to comply with the terms of the Light Railway Act so as to get this free grant. The terms of the free grant were as follows :—" Where it is certified to the Treasury by the Board of Agriculture that the making of any light railway under this Act woutl benefit agriculture in any district, or by the Board of Trade that by the making of any snch railway a necessary means of communication would be established between a fishing harbour-or fishing village and a market, or that such railway is necessary for the devolopment of or maintenance of some definite industry, but that owing to, the exceptional circumstances of the district the railway would not be constructed without special assistance from the State, and the Treasury are satisfied that a railway company existing at the time will construct and work the railway if an advance is made by the Treasury under this section, the Treasury may, subject to the limitation of this Act as to the amount to be expended for the purpose of special advances, agree that the railway be aided out of public money by a special advance under this section Proceeding, the speaker said the various districts. would have to co-operate in this matter, and he bad been informed that the large land-owners had come to thd rescue as far as this project was con- cerned, and were willing to consent to the terms that were necessary to comply with those require- ments. So the first step had Heen assured. The question, therefore, arose whether they, as a County Council, ought to take the responsibility of assisting in this matter, and what would be the advantage that would result from it. Assuming, for the sake of argument, that the construction of the line would cost 00,000, Z40,000 would be ob- tained by free grant, provided they made out the special grounds, Then, he believed, it would be necessary, before they could have a strong case, that the local authorities should become responsible for a sum of P,10,000 or F,12,000 in the aggregate. He thought the District Councils ought to take a certain amount of the responsibility, as the benefit s would be so general and so distinct to the county in its entirety. And he believed by the combined action of the District Councils and also the County Council-and in parentheses hejwould like to say that Aberystwyth ought to take some obligations in the matter-the scheme would be carried to a suc- cessful issue. Mr Daniel Jenkins: No doubt Aberystwyth will take its share. They are always fair. Alderman Jones continued to say that he thought the advantages to Aberystwyth on the one hand would be considerable, and to the districts much greater still. A member asked whether Alderman Jones could give some idea as to the sum the County Council would be required to contribute. Alderman Jones replied that as far as he was able to glean, and judging by the working of similar schemes in other districts, he believed the local authorities in this district would be called upon to find E12,000 or E14,000 between them. Mr J. C. Harford said he was not sufficiently in- formed on this question, but was it not a quarter of the cost of the line they would get as free grant. In all these schemes be thought the local authori- ties provided a quarter, the promoters provided half, and the Government gave the other quarter. From what he could gather, the cost of the line was estimated at £ 60,000. Of this, P,15,000 would be provided by the County Council and other local authorities; P,15,000 would be secured by way of free grant; and £ 30,000 would he found by the promoters of the railway, who would be the pro- moters and owners also of the Devil's Bridge Rail- way. and only on the completion of the Devil's Bridge Railway could they undertake it. He was loping that they might have had that day an ictual statement of the amount that would be •equired. Alderman Peter Jones explained that a provisional order for the Aberayron Railway was obtained in the first instance three years ago. That was about expiring, but he believed an application had been made for an extension of the period. Before such an order could be obtained, it must be made with a railway already in existence, and the information he had received from Mr Hughes was that the free grant from the Treasury would be a sum equal to £ 40,000. Mr Harford: Does he mean that the Company can get one-half ? Alderman Peter Jones said the Treasury had no power to grant a loan to an authority exceeding one-fourth of the total cost, but they bad the power to make a special grant. The Clerk read sub-section b. of the Act, which stated that "a special advance shall not exceed one-half the total amount required for the con- J struction of the railway." Mr J. C. Harford then seconded Alderman Jones' proposition. Mr E. J. Davies asked how the Council stosd with regard to this subscription. Would it be by svav of mortgage on the line 7 Alderman Peter Jones said they would have to secure leave to incur responsibility, then they )ould subscribe by way of shares or by way of ad- vance. If there ,was any deficiency on the work- ing expenses, then that deficiency had to come on the rates. Mr Harford said what they were led to under- stand was that if the- County Council or other local authorities lent mosey to one of these schemes they lenS it at 3 per cent. The Government took no securrSy,.and the way these lines were made and made to pay was in that way. In North Wales it had been done by the County Councils and the Urban Councils subscribing by way of loan, and the land-ow-ners helped as well as they could. Some gave the land for nothing, and others at 'agricultural value. Many thought that any landlord could give land, but they must remember that in settled- estates there was no power by law for a landlord to give land. He could, however, sell at ordinary agricultural value. Mr E. J. Davies again enquired what would be the effect of Alderman Jones' resolution. Alderman Jones replied that they could advance to a Light Railway by way of loan or as part of the share capital. Alderman C. AT. Williams said he felt sure they all endorsed Alderman Jones" remarks as to the desirability of securing a light railway for this part of the county. But the latter part of Alderman Jones' resolution did not comply with the Act, and it wouM not be worth anything if passed in that form. In order, however to show that they were willing to do what they could, he would suggest that the resolution stop at either the word subscribe "or" advance. The Act clearly stated that the resolution could not be passed unless a month's previous notice had been given in the manner in which notices of the meetings of the Council were usually given. The latter portion of Alderman Jones' resolution bound them, he was afraid, to more than they would like to bargain for. The only local authorities in the district were the Aberayroa Urban and Rural Councils and the Aber- ystwyth Rural Council. Of the amount required, the local authorities, perhaps, would only con- tribute £1,000 each, and the County Council might have to contribute PZOIOOO or R,25,000, which he believed was more than they bargained for. He asked:the chairman's ruling on the latter portion of the resolution. He heartily supported the resolu- tion up to that point. Before they adopted the whole of the resolution, he would like to have particulars aa-to the cost of the railway, what were the different authorities prepared to advance, and who were the private shareholders. Mr Davies had asked in what form were they going to subscribe— by taking shares or by way of loan.. On the last occasion there was a strong objection to taking shares at all (hear, hear.) But they were prepared in the case of New Quay to advance a certain sum, which had So be by way of loan. As they were well aware, the Council on that occasion was almost unanimous in supporting it. One- thing was that it was a. broad guage railway from Llan- dyssul; and the Great Western,Railway Co. intended taking it up. He would support heartily a reason- able sum being given by way of loan when due notioe had been given. Speaking of the New Quay scheme, Alderman Williams said it was pointed out very strongly then that they must be in a position to know what the local authorities of that district were prepared to do. When they were in that position in this case they could consider the matter. Their friend, Mr Lima Jones, pointed out when the New Quay Railway was being oonsidered, that the Aberayron District Council should not be included in the local authorities, as had been suggested, because Aberayron would not benefit by the railway, and the could not expect the local authority to do anything (laughter). He did not want to do an injustice to Mr Jones, but those were his own words. He (the speaker) maintained they should have some of the particulars he bad mentioned,, and then call a special: meeting. He hoped Alderman Jones would consent to withdraw the latter portion of his resolution. Alderman Peter Jones said all be wanted was that they should facilitate the. carrying on of the work. As to any technicalities, he had no doubt Mr Fryer would see that they complied with the usual and necessary conditions. He knew from experience on other public bodies that they bad passed resolutions which re- quired the same notice, but the formalities were gone through afterwards. He was not enamoured of lending any, more money than they could avoid, but at the same time he was- willing that they should take a ligitimale responsibility. The re- solution he had submitted had been drawn out by Mr A. J. Hughes, who acted as solicitor in this matter. It was quite general,.and did not commit them to the expenditure of this money. If the local authorities did' not do-their part, the County Council would not take upon itself the exlra re- sponsibility of finding the 1arger sum. But as far as they were concerned they approved and promised' to do all they possibly could, and the resolution was so general in its character that it would attain the object as far as was desired. Time was so im portant in the matter that it seemed to him they could not take upon themselves a legal, responsi- bility without resolutions being passed stipulating the sum exactly. Notice had been given to every member of the Council that such a resolution as be had proposed would be- submitted, and no one could say that they had been taken unawares. All they asked the Council was, were they in favour of the project, leaving the details to be discussed again. Mr D., Morgan James said Alderman Williams" objections did not touch the resolution. A month's notice under the Act was required on three occasions only, viz., when the Council undertook to construct the railway, and they were not undertaking to con- struct the railway; when they were contracting for its construction or working, and they were not doing either; and when they were advancing money to a light railway, which the resolution did not propose to do. Alderman Williams Excuse me, the application is being made now. Mr James said they were not subscribing now. After they had passed the resolution the details would be submitted to the Finance Committee-, and they Twould have an opportunity of subscribing afterwards. Alderman J. M. Howell said he hoped they would all agree to pass this resolution unanimously, and he respectfully appealed to Mr Williams, inas- much as the resolution afforded sufficient loopholes for escape from any monetary responsi- bility. Inasmuch as Mr Hughes, who was solicitor for the promoters of the railway, had framed the resolution, and inasmuch as it was possible that if this resolution was not passed it would afford to the promoters a reason for withdrawing from the position they bad already taken up in connection with it, he thought it was very necessary that they should not show any obstacle to the smooth work- ing of their mutual plans. At the end of this year the Light Railway Act of 1896 would expire. Amendments to the original Act had been suggested by the experience gained during the last five years, and if they did not get this order confirmed and the loan made under the existing Act, it might be that the Government would have introduced into the new Act greater and more stringent conditions. They found that out of the 6! millions authorised to be spent many tramway companies—at least lines which weie nothing better than tramways- had benefitted under this Act, because the condi- tions were less stringent, than the conditions of the Tramways Act. If various parts of the country- especially urban districts—had already obtained promises authorising them to spend 6i millions, and had obtained a great part of that from Govern- ment loans or gifts, it was a pity that the County of Cardigan should over a quibble on a small amendment-which he did not think went to the core of the question-put any difficulties in the way of the promoters, and rob themselves of the benefit of this railway. Mr Lima Jones, who was the next speaker, said they had heard the candid friend, and of all friends save them from the candid friend. (Laughter). Alderman Williams rose to a point of order, but the chairman interposed with the request that no irrelevant matters should be introduced. Mr Lima Jones continued to say that he gave the New Quay scheme all the support he could, and he denied any statement that he opposed it on the occasion referred to. Aid. C. M. Williams: I read your own remarks. Mr Lima Jones said it was quite correct to say that commercially the railway from New Quay to Aberayron would not be of any advantage, but commonsense would tell them that it would be more convenient to him to travel seven miles to a railway station at New Quay instead of 13 or 16 to Lampeter or Aberystwyth. Alderman C. M. Williams asked the Chairman For his ruling on the point he bad raised. This was not a quibble, it was simply a question of complying with the Act What was the use of passing a resolution if it was not in compliance with he Act itself? This matter was n^t urgent, and he Company had not yet secured the extension of ime, and t here. was no need for pushing it through so rapidly. The I est friends of the movement vere those who wished to have everything done in jompliance with the Act. Alderman WillianiF hen banded the schedule of the Act to the Chair- man, and asked him as to his ruling as to wnetner a resolution could be passed without a month's previous notice having been given. Mr D. C. Roberts appealed to the Council to consider the importance of passing this resolution as it was on the agenda, and its effect upon those gentlemen who were taking up this scheme. What had been said in reference to the Act of Parliament might be quite correct. No doubt they had to have proper notice, but that would be done again. All that was wanted was that these gentlemen should know that they had the thorough support of the County Council (hear, hear.) As Mr Morgan Ja.nes had said they were perfectly protected by this resolution. Unless they approved of the details of the scheme they certainly would not be compelled to go further into it,^ind he appealed to the meeting not to allow it to be thrown back on any technical point, because of its effect. Alderman C M. Williams: I ask for the Chairman's ruling. =- Alderman Peter Jones: I ask his ruling oø another point, which is quite a distinct one. ° Alderman Williams: I have asked his ruling on my point first. Alderman Peter Jones I am rather surprised that with his great experience Mr Williams who wants to act all the characters in the play, from Bottom, the weaver, to the roaring lioii" (loud laughter)- stffo ul d nfit grant me that opportunity Alderman C. M. Williams endeavoured to reply to the last speaker, but amidst the hubbub of voices his remarks could not be distinguished, and the Chairman was obliged to call for order. Alderman Peter Jones went on to say that all he asked for was an expression of opinion in the form of the resolution be had proposed. The details would have to be certified by the Clerk as having- been complied with. On the 13th August the present Order would expire, and it was impossible to give 30 or 40 days notice. All the conditions would have to be complied with, and affidavits made, and their clerk, he was certain, would not make an affidavit unless the conditions bad beem complied with. Mr J. (1J; Harford having again spoken, Alderman C. M. Williams said be asked definitely for the chairman's ruling- Several members were on their feet endeavouring to address the chair, but the Chairman remarked that he thought they had now bad sufficient dis- cussion. As to the point raised by AM Williams be ruled Mr-Peter Jones' motion in order. Alderman Williams said if it was ruled out of order he had nothing further to say. Without any of those flowery remarks used by his friena Mr Jones, be wished to say his views were very favourable totbe scheme. But in his mind the latter portion of the resolution bound the Council to what they had not bargained for and would not. If there was nothing in the latter portion of the resolution, why did not Alderman Jones allow it- to be struck out ? Or were they prepared to take £ 20,000 or P,2,5,000 in shares ? Ata reter Jones: No, no. Alderman C: M. Williams According to this it is. Alderman Peter Jones Just one explanation- The capital embraces what you borrow as well as what you subscribe. And can embrace the loan as well. Alderman C. M. Williams: If it ia lean only why not insert it Z Alderman Peter Jones: That was my mistake. I did not ask Mr Williams (laughter). Alderman C. M. Williams: I don't think Alder- man Jones uttered a greater truth. If be had asked no doubt he would have been put right; al- though he often ptrofesses to be infallible (To Al- derman Jones) Are you agreeable to put in the words "'by 16a n r Alderman Peter Jones: I leave those details to be decided by the Council. t ^-Alderman W illiams If Mr Jones puts down "by way of loan "that will meet the case. I do protest strongly against any remarks that I am unfavour- able to this loan. Mr R. J Jones said he had endeavoured to speak three or four times, but had been interrupted. If Mr Williams intended to .move an amendment be should do so. He thought it was unfair that he should catechise Mr Peter Jones. The Clerk said when the resolution was submitted to him by Mr Arthur Hughes, he made considerable alterations in it, and he read those words 14 to ad- vance such sums" as clearly meaning to advance by way of loan. Mr Morgan James said the details wourd; be con- sidered by the Finance Committee, and afterward by them as a Council. The resolution was a very mild and harmless one, and he did not think it would do harm to anyone. Dr Lloyd,.Newcastle Emlyn, rose on Ms feet to continue the discussion, but the Chairman suggested to,bimthat the discussion had gone on long enoughs Dr Lloyd said he agreed with the Chairman, and said some people had been up on their legs three or four times. He now asked the chairman to put the question to the meeting (laughter). Rev W..Griffiths said he found that circumstances altered cases, and so it had in this case. When he made an appeal to this Council to assist them witb a railway to New Quay, it was impossible then to. do anything except give money by way of loan, but now they could see their way clear to take shares in this railway (" No, no.") The resolution was then put to the meeting,. and the Chairman declared it unanimously carried. The members had already commenced to stream out of the hall, when Alderman C. M. Williams- protested against the chairman's remark that the resolution had been carried unanimously. Only a few voted for it, and the chairman had not taken the vote of those who were against. He declared that the resolution was void, because it required two thirds of the Council, to vote for it. The Chairman said he considered there was no opposition to the resolution, and that was why he- declared it unanimously carried. The proceedings then ended.