Welsh Gazette and West Wales Advertiser

Ratepayers' Association. The annual meeting of the Aberystwyth Rate- payers' Association was held on Tuesday evening at the New Market Hall. Mr T W Powell (chair- man), presided over a fair attendance. THE MINUTES. The minutes of the last meeting having been read, Mr Fred Morgan asked what bad been done with the resolution passed at the last meeting. The Chairman-l do not think you are in order in asking the question before the minutes are con- firmed. Mr Fred Morgan-This questton arises out of the minutes, and if the minutes are confirmed they cannot afterwards be altered. The Chairman-I ask if the minutes are a correct record of the proceedings of the previous meet- ing. Mr Richard Edwards, butcher, said he thought it was advisable to confirm the minutes first. He proposed that the minutes be signed. This was seconded and carried. RATEPAYER OR NOT. Mr Isaac Hopkins asked if all those present were ratepayers. A little time ago, he remembered the Chairman insisting upon those who were not rate- payers leaving the room. The Chairman-I take it that this is a meeting of ratepayers. If anyone present is not, I trust he will intimate it to the meeting. Mr R Edwards said he understood Mr Hopkins referred to the Secretary, wishing to know if a non-ratepayer was eligible for the appointment, Mr Hopkins said that was his point. Mr Evan Davies asked wasMr Hopkins in order in discussing that matter. Mr Wm Richards remarked that the Secretary was only the servant of the Association. The Chairman said that he had no right to vote at all; he was simply their servant. If the Society was to succeed they should have higher issues than these. (Hear, hear.) Mr Fred Morgan said their other secretary had had a big say in the voting. PAYMENT OF SUBSCRIPTIONS. Mr Wm Richards proposed that members present should pay their subscriptions for the ensuing year. Mr Fred Morgan asked what was done with the resolution passed at the last meeting. Had it been sent to the Town Council? The Chairman replied that it had not been sent. He did not think anyone was to be blamed for the omission more than himself. The secretary having only just been appointed was probably not aware that it was his place to see to it. He would see that the matter should be attended to. Mr Tom Rowlands remarked that every member before entering into any discussion, should first of all pay his subscription. Mr Evan Davies-Mr Rowlands is not in order. This is a general meeting. Mr Fred Morgan—This is the last meeting of the year, and we have paid our subscriptions. Mr Isaac Hopkins—I think you want to send people out of the Association, instead of increasing the membership. Mr Tom Rowlands said it had been adopted that every one who came into the room should pay their subscription. Mr Fred Morgan—It we do not pay our subs- criptions we can come here, as it is a general meeting. MARKETS. The Chairman reported that a good number of replies had been received from farmers in answer to the leaflets sent out. The committee had not yet taken them into consideration as they wished to receive more replies if possible. It was for the As- sociation tcfdecide as to whether they should let the question lie in abeyance and ask the committee to formulate some scheme by which they could take some concentrated action and present the same to the Council, or arrange a special meeting of the farmers to be addressed by Mr Brigstocke, as had already been suggested.—Mr R Edwards proposed that they be discussed in the Association, sojtbat the members could voice their views about it. If it was done in committee, he did not think they would be powerful enough. Let these matters be discussed openly, and have everything above board. The Chairman remarked that about thirty replies had been received. Mr R Edwards proposed that they be dealt with at the next meeting. Mr J D Spencer seconded. The Chairman stated that he had seenMrVaughan Davies the previous day on the matter, and he ex pressed himself very pleased at the noble work the Association had taken in hand. He felt very keen- ly on this point, and he thougth they were on the right tack, feeling sure thai the work done by them had justified its formation. The proposition to consider the replies at the next meeting was then carried unanimously. ALTERATION OF RULES. Mr Fred Morgan said he took it that at this meeting not only the selection of officers would take place, but also, if necessary, the rules could be altered. Mr J D Spencer—Fourteen days notice must be given of any intention to alter the rules. Mr Morgan-Unless it is at a general meeting. Mr Tom Rowlands-But there has been no notice given of the matter. Mr Evan Davies—IJtake it we shall e in order in revising the rules. Mr Tom Rowlands.-If anybody has anything against the rules let him speak up. Another protest against the matter being dis- cussed was made, but the chairman said he would waive the rule for that week. Mr Fred Morgan proposed that rule 6. which said that the minimum subscription should be 2s 6d should be altered, and that the minimum be fixed at Is. Mr Evan Davies-I second you. Of course, that is only the minimum. The Chairman did not think their funds would allow of such a reduction. MrEvanDavies said a great number of complaints had been made that the fee was very high. Mr J D Sqencdr said it was not fair to the members who were not present to push the matter forward like tbli4. Mr W Richards said that proper notice should be given of it. Mr Morgan said that this was the annual general meeting. They could only alter the rules at this meeting. Mr J D Spencer-You can adjourn this meeting. Mr Richards propased th&t the rule remain as at present. Mr Tom Rowlands said if they went on like that, they would knock the whole affair in the head. Mr Fred Morgan said that a shilling subscription f ee. would bring in a hundred new members. Instead' of numbering about ninety members, the Association would number between 200 and 300. Mr W Richards—Will you guarantee that. Mr Morgan-No. sir. Mr J Jones said he thought last year he proposed that the fee should be a shilling. j Mr Hopkins-I second you (laughter). Mr Jones said he knew many ymung men who took a keen interest in public affairs,and it would perhaps be an advantage to many of them to join the Association. There bad been only one class there since the start. What they wanted was men to represent every class in the town. and have the opinions of business men and working men. He quite agreed with Mr Morgan, and if they could not pay their wav with asylum subscription fee, let those who could afford pay lialf-a-crown. He would support anything to that effect. Most of tho members there that night were of the well-to-do class let them try to get some of the working class to at- tend. i Mr Isaac Hopkins said that 2s 6d was only keep n6 the ratepayers out of the Association, so that some select. party could have their own way in the matter. (Cries of No.") They tried to keep out the townspeople. (Loud laughter.)' Mr C M Williams said that it was quite clear that they could not discuss the matter that night. It was of the greatest importance to give notice of any intention to alter the rules. It was quite clear in the rules that fourteen days notice should be given. Mr R Edwards said that under the circumstances he would move that the meeting be adjourned for fourteen days, so JJthat they would then be in- order in discussing the question. The Chairman—I think that is about the healthi- est thing we can do. Mr Hopkins seconded Mr Edwards's proposition. Mr Tom Rowlands—If we have another shilling Fatepayers' Association it will soon die out. A Voice- Yes, it will die a natural death. It was eventually agreed that the meeting should be adjourned for three weeks.

CORRIS. REDUCTION OF LICENSES.—The committee of the Free Churches has petitioned the justices for a reduction in the number of licensed houses in the district. SUNDAY SCHOOL MEETING.—Tbe bi-monthly Sunday School meeting at Rehoboth Calvinistic Methodist Chapel, under the presidency of Mr John Griffiths, 'Ralltgoed. The catecbisers were Messrs E T Williams, Ty'nybertb; J R Evans, Aberllefenni; and D Ifor Jones. An address on 14 Religious enthusiasm" was given by Mr John Disley, Aberllefenni.

Wales in London. Monday, the 19th ingt, is the last day for receiv- ing entries for the various competitions in tha Grand Chair Eisteddfod, to be held at the Queen's Hall on February 18th. All names should be sent as early as possible to the hon sec, Mr David R Hughes, Oakland, 4, Barrow-road, Streatham Common, S.W., from whom all particulars may be obtained. The return match between the London Welsh and London Irish came off at Queen's Club on Saturday afternoon, when neither side was at full strength, and only a moderate game was witnessed by about 1,000 spectators. The first meeting ended in a pointless draw, but this time the Irish, after lead- ing by 11 points to 3, won by 2 goals and 2 tries (16 poin.ts) to 1 goal and 1 try (8 points). What is hoped will be the largest gathering of Glamorgan men ever held in London will take place on Saturday evening next at the Inns of Court Hotel, when the first meeting of the newly-formed County Society will be held. The Mayor of Swansea will preside, and among those expected to be present are the Hon Ivor Guest, M.P., and Mr R Bell, M.P. Mr T J Thomas, B. Sc. (" Sarnicol ") an editor of Yr Ymofynydd, gave an admirable lecture on Islwyn, the well-known Welsh poet, before the Brytboniaid of London, last Monday at 63,Chancery Lane, the home of the Honourable Society of Cymrodorion. Many notable Welshmen were present, and an interesting; discussion followed the lectura. The Rev Richard Roberts, minister of the Willesden Green Calvinistic Methodist Church, London, the secretary of the Executive Committee of the Welsh preaching festival to be held in the Ci4y Temple, London, on St David's Eve, has just completed the arrangements for the festival. The special preachers will be the Revs 0 R Owen, Congregationalist, of Glandwr, Pembrokeshire, and Edward Humphreys, Wesleyan Methodist, of Rhyl. The united choirs of the London Welsh Free Churches, under the conductorship of Mr Madoc Davies, A.R.C.M., will lead the singing, and Mr Merlin Morgan, A.R.C.M., will preside at the organ. Bit by bit old London is being transformed into a new city. With the destruction of the old Con- gregational Chapel in Fetter-lane disappears one of the few recently remaining features of the celebrated thoroughfare as it existed two centuries ago. At the northern end, the removal of the block of houses lying between the old White Horse and Furnival-street made a striking alter- ation. The old White Horse itself was a house of some repute. According to Lord Eldon, it was in his day the great. Oxford coaching house, and his brother, Lord Stowell, took refreshment there one night before going to Drury Lane Theatre. Both Dryden and Otway atone time lived close by, and 44 Praise God Barebones." preached in the thorough- fare—though maybe not in the chapel which has just disappeared. Canon Scott Holland, s peaking on Thursday at Croydon, in connection with the 44 Christian Social Union," said that there were about a million people in London who bad absolutely no chance of know- ing, in the remotest way, what home really meant. Seven or eight hundred thousand of them were living in single-room tenements, in which anything like the essentials of a home was out of the question and the wretchedness of which drove men and women to drink and the children into the streets. To partly meet this evil Christian people opened clubs for boys and girls; but they must remember that in so doing they were at best palliating and making possible this homeless condition. They lay under the obligation of seeing that the ties between parent and child were not loosened, and they must take further action and demand homes for these people.

LAMPETER. THE NEW SURVEYOR.—Mr David Thomas, of Ferndale, the newly-appointed surveyor and sanitary inspector, commenced duties on Monday last. and was accorded hearty welcome by the members of the Council. Mr Thomas is a man of much ability, and has a wide knowledge of ssnitary matters. We wish him every success in his new sphere. FAIR.-Tbe annual fair, known as Ifair Roblin," was held on Monday last, and in spite of the cold weather there was a larger attendance of farmers than has been the case for many years. The fair was originally a pig fair, and was remarkable for the enormous stock of heavy pigs which were offered for sale, but of late years it has greatly decreased. This year that was but a small supply of store pigs, and prices remained steady, there being hardly any change since the monthly market. As usual there was a great supply of woollen goods, and the stall holders seemed to do a fair trade. TEA PARTY AND ENTERTAINMENT. The annual tea party in connection with the Church Welsh Sunday School was held at the Old Gram- mar Scheol on Monday last. The arrangements were entrusted to Mrs Davies, 7, College-street and Miss Jones, Enoch, and needless to state they were carried out satisfactorily. The tables, which were heavily laden with numerous kinds of dainties, were presided over by the lady members of the school. In the evening an entertainment was held under the presidency of the Rev W J Evans, senior curate, when a long programme, con- sisfing of songs, recitations, and addresses was gone through. The place of honour in the pro- gramme was given to the Merry Milkmaids party. The superintendent of the school is M r Roderick Evans, chemist. LAMPETER SECONDARY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS.— The staff af this school is now increased by Miss Ethel Cranmer, of Bedford High School, who has passed the London Matriculation. The school is also making satisfactory progress in the number of its pupils, at least three new pupils being expected this term. Miss Ebbult, the head mistress, is to be congratulated on lho success of her pupii, Miss Taylor, who was coached by her in Early English for the London B.A., and who passed in December in the First Division. THE INTERNATIONAL MATCH.—Gn Saturday last. some 102 persons journeyed by the excursion train to Swansea to witness the International football match between England and Wales, a large per- centage of whom went down to support. Mr Strand- Jones, a member of the town football team, who was selected to play as full-back for the fourth time in succession. The result of the match- Wales 3 goals 2 tries. England 1 goal-was made known in the town soon after the game was over, and was received by football enthusiasts with enthusiasm and some surprise. Commenting on Strand Jones's play, one critic states that he 11 played his own game at full-back, and his play possesses character- istics which are not allied to the play of any other back. His run was just like him, and his defence was absolute perfect." Another critic states that Strand Jones had opportunities to show off all his strong points, and be accepted every chance. His fearless fielding from the feet of the English for- wards half way through the second half, when they were going strong, was a spectacular treat. Only once though was he caught., and then the forward was really not justified in jumping for him. This y slowness, however, was more apparent than real as he showed when gathering the ball. He ran right through the defence, and kept his head by feinting to try to avoid Gamlin himself and then transferring to Hodges, who put the finishing touch to a grand movement. ALLEGED CATTLE MAIMING. THE ACCUSED DISCHARGED. At the Carmarthenshire Quarter Sesssons on, Friday, before Mr Arthur Lewis, the deputy recorder, David Evans, aged 21 years, a farm servant in service at Caeronen, Cellan, was brought up, charged by Superintendent Evans, Llandilo, with maiming a cow, the property of Wm David Williams, Postgwyn, Pencarreg. Mr Davies- Williams (instructed by Mr T G Phillips, Llandilo) appeared for the prosecution, and Mr Lloyd Morgan, M.P. (instructed by Mr Daniel Watkins, solicitor, Lampeter), defended.—The accused pleaded guilty, and Mr Lloyd Morgan made a strong appeal on his behalf.—The Recorder dis- charged the prisoner upon his finding two sureties, one for himself of £10, and another of £ 10, to be of good behaviour for six months. The recorder strongly advised him to give up drinking. The sureties having been obtained, the accused was discharged.

College Students' Adventure Considerable anxiety was caused in the town on Wednesday evening by the disappearance of two students of the University College, named, A G J Miller and A E Saunders. It appears that about three o'clock in the afternoon they launched the 14 tub" belonging to the College Boating Club, and proceeded out into the Bay to fish. They were seen from the shore engaged in this occupation till about four o'clock, and then they were suddenly missed, As they did not return to the beach, their friends became alarmed at their disappear- ance, and informed the lifeboat authorities, with the result that the lifeboat was launched a few minutes before 'ive o'olock. Darkness bad now set in, and the anxiety became greater. To the great relief of all concerned, however, the boat, with the two students, returned to the beach about a quarter to seven, the lifeboat being still out searching for them. The two men, while fishing, allowed their boat to drift, so that when they came to make for home they found a pretty strong easterly wind dead against them. Against this they made but little il.»? » J J ~rc i.~ ~4- j progress wiln iQeir umteu llUIL avue ual, aua as they were three or four miles from the beach, they were longer in returning than they anticipated. The lifeboat remained out till about eight o'clock.

Gossip and Rumour. FROM VARIOUS SOURCES. Lord H Vane Tempest was one of the house party at Cbatswortb last week. Second-Lieutenant N P J Turner has resigned his commission in the Montgomeryshire Imperia Yeomanry. Lieut-Colonel Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, C.B., Montgomeryshire Imperial Yeomanry, has been granted the honorary rank of colonel. 8?41 Lychon," writes a correspondent, is the term by which Mr John Barleycorn is colloquially known at Llanon; and he wondars what names they will find for the Black List." Mr J Herbert Lewis, the member for the Flint Boroughs, has returned to his residence at Caerwys from Grand Canary, where he has spent the last month. His health has considerably improved by the change. "Pa, who was Shyloek ?" Great goodness boy You attend church and Sunday school "every waek and don't know who Shyloek was ?" cried his father, with a look of surprise and horror, 41 Go "and read your Bible, sir Mrs T E Ellis, widow of the former Chief Whip of the Liberal party, delivered her maiden speech in public at the inaugural meeting of the Liberal Social Council at Bangor. Her debut on the plat- form was a great success. ♦ # Mr William Evans, of Birmingham, a leading Welsh Nationalist, is on his way to America After visiting New York and Philadelphia, Mr Evans will proceed to China, India, and other Eastern countries, returning by way of Australia. A wedding of interest to a byegone generation of U.C.W. students took place at Liverpool on New Year's eve, when Miss Eirene Theodora Lloyd, M.A, and Mr Tom Jones, M.A., of Rbymney, and now of the professorial staff of Glasgow University, were united in the bonds of matrimony. "Webster's Foresters' Diary for 1903" is an admirable pocket book in every respect, and all who are engaged on the land, such as estate agents and farm bailiffs, will find it to be an invaluable companion, containing as it does, within a small compass a vast amount of useful and indispensiable information. # The best case of absent-mindedness of which we have lately heard was that of a well-known pro- fessor. While he was crossing the street a watering-cart let its flood loose upon him. The professor quietly raised his umbrella and walked through two streets before he discovered that the sun was shining bright. ♦ Perhaps few people who know how to pronounce Major-General Pole-Carew's name correctly, says the Daily News," are acquainted with the reason why Carew should be Carey. The general's ancester-one Carru-was owner of Caeru Castle in Pembrokeshire. The Welsh u" is pronounced like the English II e." so Caeru becomes Carey. By the recent fire at Neath Free Library, in addition to a number of valuable books presented to the library by the late Miss Rowland, the oil paintings were also destroyed, amongst them being the portrait of the Rev David Davis, Unitarian minister in that town from 1799 to 1821; eldest son of the Rev David Davis, Castell Hywel, the well-known bard and schoolmaster for Cardigan. shire. I Mr E Jones, of Manoravon, Llandilo, has been appointed a justice of the peace for his native county of Cardigan. Mr Jones is well known all over the three kingdoms as one of the leading breeders of hackneys, shorthorns, and Welsh ponies. Having taken all the most coveted prizes at the Royal, Bath and West of England, and other shows. he is now frequently selected as judge, at the most important shows, and is judging at the coming London Hackney Show in March. The Rev Thomas Johns, who for about twenty years laboured atNprthwich, exercising a quiet but far-reaching influence for good, has passed away. Mr Johns was born in Madagascar. His father was one of the early missionarier sent out to that island. In Madagascas the father was associated with that pioneer David Jones, of Nenaddlwyd fame. In fact, Mr John's name was really David Jones, but it was altered to David Johns to avoid confusion. Manchester Free Churchmen who recall the work of the younger Johns at isorthwich will be the first, to realise that in his death Non- conformity has lost one who exercised a wise and gracious ministry, and who in leaving us has left the memory of a saintly life. A most interesting person has been working at Frongoch Mine for the past three years in the person of Alais Zubriggen a native of Schweitz in Switzerland. Zubriggen is a recognised and expert guide of the Alpine Club. He knew all the Alpine heights well. and had acted as guide to the late Principal Viriamu Jones, Mr King, M.P.,and others, all of whom spoke in high terms of him in the tpsti'nor.ials they had given him. Thopp who cunietijpiitte paying a visit to the Garden of Europe during the summer may be glad to come across him and have the benefit of his local knowledge. 44 Frongoch may prove a good pass-word. >It Welshmen have long claimed Lord Salisbury as a onmnatriot, and Mr Llewelvn Williams, the Welsh barrister and archaeologist strenuously championed the claim in a paper read the other evening before the L'ic il Liberal Club at Pontypridd. Mr Williams (says the Westminster Gazette ") de- rives the ex Premier's ancestry from a charmingly consonantal personage, John Syssyllt, the father of Sir William Cecil, who was "a Welshman on both sides," and born near Whitchurch, in Glamorgan- shire. Incidentally, Mr Williams announced that be had recently discovered in the library afHatfield, among Sir William Cecil's papers, a letter written to him 44 in beautiful Welsh" from Rome by Dr Morris, who had gone abroad because he could not turn Protestant. This has been photographed,and will shortly be published. + The Cottesmore Hounds, which Mr Evan Hanbury manages so successfully, have shown first-rate sport this season, and on Saturday, when a very large company assembled at Wymondhatn, two clinking runs were obtained. The field included the Master and Mrs Evan Hanbury, the Duchess of Newcastle, Lord Henry Vane-Tempest, Captain Burns Hartopp, the Duke of Roxburgbe, General Sir Bruce Hamilton, Hon. Mrs -Lancelot Lowther, Lord Cowley, Lady Mary Willoughby. Lord Hamilton of Dalzell, Major Ricardo, Captain Niel Haig, Lady Augusta Fane, the Earl of Huntingdon, and Lord Churchill. A couple of foxes were discovered in the same old tree in Stapleford Park one-au old customer—declined to accept a pressing invitation to come down, but his compinion considered that flight across the open was preferable to being pelted with missiles, .t, -1 \l '1- ann, DROPPING iu WIT; gl UlIUU, UUUIJUS welt: HJ"'LØUli.J on his track. Philip Sidney writes that he has been able to spend a short time in the valuable Fisher Library, recently bequeathed to the city of Exeter and now housed in the building of the Royal Albert Memorial Museum. Rich as he had known it to be- in the best and most perfect specimen of rare books on topography, he bad no idea of the magnitude of that wealth until he visited it. The limited time- at :his disposal :was natural given to an inspection of certain works dealing with Wales. Hereatlasthe says 44 I have seen an absolutely complete set of the 44 Archaeologia Cambrensis" from its start in 1846, with the earlier volumes in their original green cloth, as issued. What would we not give to, have such a set, uncropped, and perfect at U.C.W. t. Here too, in three volumes sumptuously bound in crimson and gold is Sir Robt. Colt Hoare's own copy of the Itinerary of Abp. Baldwin which he edited in 1808; also his orginal drawings :for the same, all laid down in a volume, dated 1814. As if these were not sufficient jewels for one treasure chest, here we find that much coveted copy of Fenton's 44 Pembrokeshire of 1810 with the prints on satin which Mr Fisher bought for P,27 10s Od some years ago. Side by side with it is a large paper copy of Meyrick's seldom seen Ancient Furniture," 1836, its plates being all brilliant in, colouring and gilt and absolutely unfoxed. Not far off too is a choice copy of Charles Norris' series of engravings of St. David's Cathedral, in 1811* Some day, let us hope, Aberystwyth may acquire further similar specimens and so increase the good beginning already made in U.C.W. and our Free Library." LOCAL WILL. Probate of the will of the Rev John Harries Davies, rector since 1867 of Cilian Aeron, who died on the 26th of September last, has been granted to his brother, Mr Henry Harries Davies, of Rock House, Llandvssul, surgeon, and the testator's estate has been valued at L4,026 3s gross, including personalty of the net value of E960 12s Id.

Aberystwyth Petty Sessio ns The weekly Petty Sessions were held on Wednes- day at the Town Hall, before Messrs R J Jones, C M Williams, Thomas Griffiths, :Edward Evans. John Watkins, Isaac Hopkins, George Davis, and John Lewis. School Attendnnce.—Mary Williams, Moor-lane was charged by Dd Lloyd, attendance officer, with neglecting to cause her child Agnes, to attend school.—Mr Lloyd said that defendant had been summoned several times for similar offences. Dur- ing the last month, some person had intervened on behalf of the child, in order to get her work but failed.-An order to attend was made. Excunion Ticket Fraud. Margaret James, Cominonfynydd, Bethania, Llanon, was charged by the Cambrian Railways Company with travelling on that line without having previously paid her fare.- Mr Minshall, solicitor, Oswestry, who appeared for the prosecution, said the facts of the case were that the Cambrian Railways Company issued cheap excursion tickets to London at a very small fare. On the 8th December last, tickets were issued to London for two days," the fare being 12s, 7s 9d less than the ordinary single fare. It bad been brought to the notice of the company that a considerable amount of traffic was done in selling the return half of the tickets. He had received a letter from a Mr Jones, who said that on the 10th inst he purchased an eight day excursion ticket from Aberystwyth to Euston. No sooner had he got out of the booking office, than he was besieged by at least a dozen people asking him to sell the re- turn half of the ticket. It was a common practice for tradespeople to go to London with a two day ticket, and stop a month, selling their return half, and getting their friends to send them a ticket at .[ the next excursion. The practice should not be i tolerated for a moment. Mr Minshall said that on the date in question, a special examination was made of the tickets, and their numbers taken. The ticket, in question, number 984, was in the posses- sion of a young man, who did not give his name. On the return of the excursion, another examina- tion was made, and it was discovered that the re- turn half was b&ld by Mrs James. She admitted having purchased tbe return half of the ticket for 6s, where she ought to have paid 19s 8id. In a similar case, it had been decided that such an act was a fraud. He did not ask for a heavy fine, but the company were determined to put it down.- Alfred Rupert Morgan, ticket examiner, deposed making a special examination of the excursion tickets on the 12 30 train, on December 8th. The ticket in question was held by a young managed about 26 years. He made a special examination on the return of the excursion, and the ticket, produced, was held by Mrs James.—David Davies, father of the defendant, handed in a letter from his daughter, in which she admitted the offence, but did not know she was doing wrong.—The Bench, having consulted together in private, announced that Mrs James would be fined 15s including costs. They felt they were bonnd to support the company in putting a stop to tbe practice. If a further case was brought up, it would be dealt with severely.- Elizabeth Thomas, Bridgend House, Llanon, was charged with a similar offence. Mr Minshall said that the case was almost identical with tbe pre- vious one. On the examination of tickets, tbe out- ward half only was found in the possession of a Miss Winifred Hughes. She first said she bad lost the other half. and said it was in her pocket, and finally declared she had left it behind her. On the return journey it was found in the possession of Mrs Thomas, who ad aiitted that "she came from Euston with it. She said her son bad:got it for her, and on being asked to pay the ordinary fare she re- fused.-Evidence to this effect was given by Alfred R Morgan.—Defendant said she was very sorry it had occurred. She paid 6s for the ticket.—The Bench took a lenient view of the case, and fined defendant 15s including aosts.—The Deputy Clerk (Mr A J Hughes) remarked that the maximum fine was 40s, and:for the second offence £20. Drunkenness— Edward Morgan, Glanrhaiadr-y- Mochnant, Denbigh, was charged by P.C. Daniel Lewis Davies (34) with drunkenness.—Defendant pleaded guilty, and was dismissed on promising to leave the town. Licencing '.Sessions.—These sessions were fixed for February 17th at the Town Hall.

New Jnstiees of the Peace for Cardiganshire. The following gentlemen have just been added by the Lord Lieutenant to the commission of the place for thr county of Cardigynsbire:- Capt Edward Crawford Lloyd Fitzwilliams, Cilgwvn, Newcastle Emlyn. William Lewes, Llysnewydd. Sir Courtenay Cecil Mansel, Bart., Maesycrugian,. Lynn Thomas, C.B., M.D., Greenlawn, Penylan, Cardiff. John Owen; Penbryn. William Morris, Brynowen, Bortb. Joseph Denston Perrott, Aberystwyth. Edward Jones, Elgar House, Talybont. Rev Evan Morris, Aberayron. Evan Jones, Manorafon. Carmarthenshire, Printed and Published by the Proprietor, GEOUGB. REES, at the "WELSH GAZETTE" Printeries, Bridge-street, Aberystwyth, in the County at Cardigan, T; mrsilay, J j cuary 15LL, 1903. )

MACHYNLLETH. THE COUNTY SCHOOL.—The County Intermediate School commenced the new term on Tuesday morn- ing last with several new pupils on the register. PENYBONT-AR-DDYFI.—On Friday evening last, Mr Emlyn H Davies, B.A., of New College, London, and son of Mr D E Davies, of Llyseinon, Eglwys Fach, preached at Penybont-ar-Ddyfi Chapel to a large and appreciative congregation. BEGGING.—At the Police Station on Friday evening last, before Mr Richard Rees, James Rogers, Pembroke, was summoned by P C. Ellis, Llanbrynmair, for begging at various houses in the district of Llanbrynmair.—The defendant was dis- missed with a caution. DEATH AND FUNERAL OF MR RICHARD OWEN. —It is with regret that we record the demise of Mr Richard Owen, Hafodygarreg, which took place on Tuesday evening in last week, at the age of sixty-nine years. Deceased had lived at Isygarreg for many years, where he owned property. He was a staunch Liberal and a warm supporter of the Congregational cause. He represented Isygarreg for many years on the Board of Guardians, Parish Council, and the Scboal Board. The funeral took place on Saturday last at the cemetery, and the re- gard in which the deceased was held was evinced in the large number of friends and relatives who attended to show their appreciation of the kind- ness extended to them during his lifetime. The Rev Wnion Evans officiated at the house, and the Revs Josiah Jones, H W Parry, Aberllefenny, and Wnion Evans, officiated at the graveside. The cortege left the house about half-past one o'clock for the cemetery, amongst those following being the Revs J D Jones, and Berwyn Roberts, Messrs Arter, Caswallon Wood, Foulkes Roberts, T Griffiths, Forge; Messrs Edward Rees, J.P. Richard Gillart, J.P.; Edward Davies, J.P., Dolcaradog; W M Jones, and the relatives of the deceased, with whom much sympathy is felt in their bereavement. On Sunday, the Rev Wnion Evans preached a funeral sermon to a large congregation at Derwelas Con- gregational Chapel, of which deceased was a mem- ber. SHOOTING COMPETITION.—The following is the result of the weekly shoot for the silver spoons, which took place at the range on Saturday last, in which members of the D (Machynlleth) Company and E (Aberystwyth College) Company partici- t)ated:- Com- H'cap pany Score pts. Pte R Edwards D 39 Sergt Sadleir D 49 19 Sergt-Inst Wilson D 47 18 Pte B Pearce D 46 9 Corpl Leek D 45 11 Pte E Owen D 42 8 Sergt Pidduck E 32 4 Pte C A Williams E 31 Sergt Hibbert E 30 PteORoberts. D 23 Pte D T Evans E 22 Pte E Pyatt E 22 POLICE COURT.—At the Police Court on Wednesday, in last week, Major Bonsall presiding. Michael Manning, travelling tinker, for allowing a horse and an ass to stray on the highway, was fined 5s including costs.—A letter from the Machynlleth Urban Council was read stating that complaints had been received by them of the excessive speed at which motors were driven in the district. On the proposal of Mr R Gillart, seconded by Major Hugh Bonsall, it was agreed, after some discussion, that in future the Clerk should send a list of cases to be dealt with to each of the magistrates on the Monday preceding the sessions.—The annual licensing meeting was fixed for Wednesday, February 4th, at 11 a.m. THE PUBLIC LIBRARY MOVEMENT. MR CARNEGIE'S LETTER. ENTHUSIASTIC MEETING. A public meeting, convened by the Urban Dis- trict Council was held on Friday evening last at the Town Hall, to consider the reply received from Mr Carnegie with regard to the formation of a public library in the town. The matter seems to have been taken up on all hands with commendable enthusiasm and avidity,and it is hoped that Itw the opportunity of securing a public library seems within reach, that it will not be allowed to slip by. The meeting was a representative one, amongst those present being Messrs J G Jenkins, National Provincial Bank; D E R Griffith, London and Pro- vincial Bank; Mrs Jones, Cambrian House; Messrs Powell, Bank; Edward Rees, Alderman David Williams, John Rees, J M Breeze, Richard Rees, Richard Gillart, W M Jones, David Smith, Evan Rees, and David Morgan. The meeting was called for quarter past eight, and by that time the room was quite full. Mr J M Breeze, chairman of the District Council, was appointed to the chair. I The Chairman having explained the object of the meeting, Mr John Rowlands, clerk to the Council, read the following letter received from Mr Carnegie —44 New York, 17th December, 1902. Dear Sir,- Yours of the 7th October received. As a supple- mentary income of £35 per year would mean the raising of at least £ 1,090, and as in any event a town of the size would not receive more than £ 1,000 for its building from Mr Carnegie, it does not seem a very practical proposition. Respect- fully yours, Jas Bertram, Private Secretary." Dr A 0 Davies urged that they should take advantage of the opportunity, which he considered was a splendid one. Although he could not say that Mr Carnegie's letter was very encouraging, it would be a great pity to lose the opportunity of securing the sum of £1,000 towards the building, provided they could raise a like amount. He pro- posed that the Urban District Council should ap- point a committee to work with that body, in order to achieve the object in view. Mr D E R Griffith seconded. Alderman David Williams did not think the Urban Council should appoint the Committee as suggested by Dr Davies as they were not respresenta- tive enough of the ratepayers of the town. Mr Richard Rees pointed out that the various denominations had appointed delegates a short time ago to meet the Council, and he proposed that these be formed into a committee in order that they should have a fair representation from each church. By taking this course, he thought even more enthusiasm would be instilled into the movement. Mr R Gillart seconded this proposition, and said t L- 4.1 v. *v.o+ hø tnø hpet. rArir<»aAn tinn ue UJUU^UU twau nuutu -www— they could get, as it would ensure the full interest of each, which was the prime factor, if they wished to have a library. Mr Griffith objected to Mr Rees' proposition on the ground that denominationalism should not be brought into a matter of this kind. Dr Davies supported Mr Griffith's idda. He could not see how the Church would be thoroughly represented on such a committee as that suggested by Mr Rees. Mr Richard Rees replied that he had no intention of bringing denominationalism into the matter at all. It was Dr Davies who had introduced the question. Mr W M Jones thought it would be advantage- ous if the present meeting appointed the committee. It was a very representative one of the ratepayers, and he thought it would be the best course. Mr Richard Rees explained that the danger in that would be that they might leave someone out who was not present, who would very probably be one of the best supporters of the scheme. If they allowed each chapel to appoint representatives that danger would be avoided. Mr J G Jenkins said that they should have a fairly representative committee, and he was in favour, if possible, of deciding that night, as there were so many present. Dr Davies said he was not willing to withdraw his proposition, as he thought the Urban Council should appoint the committee. Mr Richard Rees said that he was very anxious that they should not divide the house if possible, J as they required every unanimity in the movement. After a consultation with Mr R Gillart, Mr Rees said he was prepared to withdraw his proposition in favour of appointing a committee at this meeting I although at the same time he was convinced that the other would be more satisfactory. He pressed upon Dr Davies to take the same course with regard to his proposition. Mr W M Jones proposed a reso- lution that the committee be appointed that night. Mr John Rowlands seconded, "nd the resolution was carried unanimously. Mr Evan Reese suggested that five ladies be enrolled on the committee, which was agreed to, and the committee was then constituted as follows :—The Marchioness (D) of Londonderry, Mrs Jones, Cambrian House; Mrs Foulkes Jones, Miss A Edwards, Wilfor House, and Miss Pugh, Revs LI Williams, Josiah Jones (I) W S Jones (M), D H Hughes (B), J D Jones (W), Edward Williams (M), and Messrs Edward Ilees, J G Jenkins, D E R Griffith, Dr A 0 Davies, and Mr LI Evans, and the members of the Urban District Council. Mr W M Jones thought that the Urban Council should secure a site for tLe building, in order that no time should be lost. Mr Griffith agreed with this, and asked if it would not be better if the various parish councils were asked to co-operate with the Urban Council, as he thought a free library in the town would be very useful to country people as well. Mr Richard Rees asked was it not rather prema- ture to consider the procuring of a site before mak- ing sure that they would get the money for the building. He thought it would be better in the first instance for the committee to meet and con- sider the ways and means of raising the 91,000, and, if possible, to cauvass the town to see what their position would be with regard to the amount, to be collected. It was clearly to be understood from Mr Andrew Carnegie's letter that they would require more than £1,000, very likely £ 1,200. If officers were appointed to canvass the town they would know in what position they would be. Dr Davies said he concurred with that sugges- tion. Unless they could raise about P.1,200, they would not require a site. It was putting the cart before the horse. It Nas agreed to refer the matter of the site to the committee. Dr Davies proposed that each member of the committee should promise a subscription of £ 5. The Chairman-Where shall we begin ? Mr John Evans—We will commene at Jerusalem. (Laughter.) Mr Evan Reese thought there was no narm in making a good start. There were a large number present. Mr Richard Rees thought it would be a great mistake to go and bind those members to £ 5. If the-e fifteen each promised iE5, it would only make a total of Z75, and that would not be anything near the required amount. Did they recognise the fact that the committee represented the most wealthy portion of the community ? Some of them were worth thousands of pounds. Was it fair to put them down for such a small sum ? He thought it was very unfair, and unfair also to the scheme. He certainly thought that matter should be left for a while. Mr Jenkins concurred. If Dr Davies had said iC20, it would have been a little different. Mr John Rowlands proposed that the committee should meet on Tuesday evening, and this was agreed to. The meeting then ended.

TALYBONT. EISTEDDFODOL.—Yr wythnos ddiweddaf daetb H newydd cysurlawn i'r pentref mai y llemerenwog, Mr Wm Davies, Penlon, oedd y buddugol yn Eis- teddfod Gadeiriol Meirion, ar y 44 Casgliad o Hen Ddywediadau Cymreig" Yr oedd yno ugain o gy- fansoddiadau wedi dyfod i law, ond yr oedd tri o honynt yn rhagori, ac o'r tri y goreu oedd eiddo Mr Davies. RENT AUDIT.—The annual rent audit of the Gogerddan Estate took place on Thursday last at the Lion Hotel. Although the weather wao in- clement, there was a good attendance of tenants. Much satisfaction was expressed at the abatement of 15 per cent, which, with his usual generosity, was granted by Sir Pryse Piyse. Sir Pryse was himself present at the audit, but was prevented from attending the dinner, to which tbe tenants were afterwards invited. The chair, in his absence, was occupied by his genial son, Mr Lewis Pryse, Pantgwyn. At the post-prandial proceedings, Mr J Bunce Morgan, Glanfread, proposed the toast of the health of Sir Pryse Pryse, which was heartily drunk.—In responding on behalf of his father, Mr Lewis Pryse said he hoped the good feeling which had hitherto existed would always continue between Sir Pryse and his tenants. (Applause.)—The health of Mr and Mrs Pryse, Lodge Park, was also proposed and warmly received, as also was that of Mr Lewis Pryse.-In acknowledging the latter, Mr Pryse said be was glad of the opportunity of saying a few words to the people of Talybont. There was an idea abroad, he said, that the Aberystwyth Agricul- tural Show bad been started in opposition to the Talybont Show. He wished to emphatically say that there was nothing of the kind. His idea had been-and he believed it was the idea of most of those interested in the matter-to make the Aber- ystwyth Show a big open show, with not the least desire that it should interfere with any local shows. Exhibitors at local shows could then send their best stock to the Aberystwyth Show to compete with the best stock that was brought there from different parts of the country. PETTY SESSIONS. The monthly Petty Sessions were held on Thurs- day last before Messrs J T Morgan, David Howells, and Major Taunton. Withdrdn-A.-An application was made for the transfer of the licence of Borth Railway Hotel from Sarah Jane Parrish to Evan William Davies.—Mr John Evans, solicitor, Aberystwyth, and others appeared to oppose the granting of the transfer.— The application was withdrawn. Assault.-Margaret Evans, Llanerch, Tre'rddol, charged Lewis Beechy, Tre'rddol, with assaulting and beating her on December 20th.-MrW P Owen appeared on behalf of complainant.—Margaret Evans-said that she lived at Tre'rddol, and was a sister of defendant's wife. On the 20th December she was looking for her boy, and had occasion to pass his house. On returning defendant was com- ing out of his house, and he accused her of kicking the door of the house, which she denied. He then struck her in the face with his fists, pushed her down on the ground, and kicked her. His sister Jane came while he was kicking her, and she took hold of her hair. When she fell to the ground they both ran away. She remembered Sarah Williams telling Lewis Beechy to mind what he was doing. She never touched him before the assault.—Cross-examined She did not kick the door, and he did strike her.—Mary Evans said that she was a sister to S*ah. She remembered seeing defendant kick complainant on December 20th. She was on the ground, and he beat her. Her lips were swollen, and she was bleeding.—Lewis Beechy said that on December 20th he and his four children were in the house, and his wife was in the shop. Two violent kicks were given to the door, and it flew open. Before he had gone ten yards he saw complainant. He followed her, and put his hand on her shoulder, and asked her what did she mean by kicking the door, to which she replied Did anyone see me ?" He answered, Nobody that he- knew of," and then she said 44 Do your worst." He said be would punish her, and she swung a bucket in the air, intending to strike him. In avoiding it, he pushed her down. His sister and Mrs Williams came out of their houses, and Mrs Williams told him not to take any notice of her. He returned to the house, and Margaret Evans followed, swearing as she did so.—Cross-examined Some one kicked the door, and he thought it was her, as he caught her ten yards from the house. He had not spoken to complainant for some time because of differences between his wife and him- self. He caught bold of her quietly, and asked her what did she kick the door for. He gave her a push when she bad her fingers in his face. There were no marks on his face. His sister Jane was not there until complainant had fallen.—Jane Jones said she remembered the night of the row. She was at the door of her house when Margaret Evans came up from the village, with a bucket on her arm. Saw her give two kicks to the door. She ran about six yards, and her brother came out of the house. She went in to the house, thinking his wife would be there. She heard defendant telling complainant that he bad caught her that day fairly. _1_- 1.1. .ro.1. one aSKea it anyone eise saw net A.H.tU, me uuui. e The next thing she saw was the bucket swing round, and it hit him.—Cross-examined, witness said she had been in Carnarvon prison for three weeks, and that she did not assault complainant or pull her hair.—Each were bound over in the sum of £5 to keep the peace for twelve months, costs to be remitted. School Attendance. -Kate Davies, Talybont, was summoned by James Williams, school attendance officer, for neglecting to cause her child Claudia, to attend school regularly. -Jas Williams said that the child had been absent 29 times out of 69.—A fine of 2s 6d was imposed.—Thomas Jones, Rhydfacb, Talybont, was charged with a similar offence in respect of his child Thomas, who had missed 40 times out of 122 possible attendance. A fine of 5s was imposed.—The case of Edward Jenkins, Penybank, whose child bad been absent 40 times out of 126, was adjourned for two m onths —Saiah Williams, Talybont, was charged by Daniel Hughes with a like offence, in respect of his child Lizzie, who had missed 52 times out of 122.-The case was adjourned for one month. Larcrny.-SuperinteD(ient Phillips charged William Thomas Cuttingbam and Edward Edwards with larceny at Brynllys, Borth, and Glanberry. Both charges were taken together.—Rowland Williams said he lived at Brynllys, and was in the service of Mr James. He missed the articles on January 7th. He identified the articles produced as the ones lost.-Richard James, Brynllys, also identified the articles produced, as his property. -David Davies, Glanlerry, said the articles pro- duced belonged to his master and the rest belonged to bim.-P,C. Lewis Davies deposed that from information received he went in search of the I goods. Went to Pantydwr, and saw Edward Edwards, who denied having been at Brynllys the previous night. Wont to see Cuttingham, who admitted that he had been there, and took plate out of his pocket, which he produced, and said the other prisoner cut it from the bridle and gave it to him. He admitted the offence, and the other prifoner, Edward Edwards, also admitted after- wards.— Prisoners pleaded gnilty, and Cuttingham was fined ZI and costs, and Edwards was fined 5s and costs. Birching for a Pickpocket Superintendent Phillips charged David Jenkins, aged 13 years, with picking pockets.—Margaret Jones, Gelli, Llancyn- felin, deposed that on New Year's night she was at Taliesin in the lobby of the Board School, accom- panied by a Miss Thomas. She noticed she had lost her purse, in which there was 3s in silver and some coppers. Shortly alter that. she and Miss Thomas went back to the school. When they were going back Miss Thomas observed a hand going into her pocket, and she saw prisoner close to Miss Thomas and herself. Catherine Thomas gave corroborative evidence She found her handker- chief missing, and seeing accused standing near, she caught hold of him and asked him what he had done with her handkerchief, and he said he had picked it up from the flour.—Margaret Edwards said Oil New Year's night she was at Miss Pugh's shop about nine o'clock. She made a purchase and took her purse out, putting it back after taking out a shilling. Then went home and felt for her purse, but could not find it. Returned to Miss Pugh's kitchen to ascertain whether she had left it there. She identified the purse produced as hers.—Mary Anne Davies, Lletylwyden, Talybont. said she also lost a purse at the concert.—P.C. Edward Thomas d<p>sed that he investigated the case. OmTuesday morning he went to the Belle Vue, Llanilar, where the boy was in service, and found him in a field. Questioned him as to his whereabouts on New Year's night. Told him about the charge, and he denied all knowledge of it. Searched him and found nothing but the purse produced, which he .-aid he bought at Aberystwyth Fair. Accompanied him to the farm, as he wanted to see his bedroom and box On the way up. he said he would tell the truth about it He said that Tom, Tybuck, and himself were at Taliesin at the concert, and they had nn mOIlPv to (rci in T^ov "r1,,r1 to trv anrl -¥J h' .A. -A..f.-lv.J "J find some money from the women's pockets. Asked about Mrs Jones' purse, he said Tom attempted to take it first but failed, and he then tried it and succeeded. Handed it to Tom, and had a 6d and two threepenny bits and some coppers, keeping the rest. After the concert Tom and be went to Miss •Pugh's shop. Accused called for two bottles of lemonade and two buns. During that time Margaret Edwards was in the kitchen buying same bread. Tom said there was another chance to get some money, and told him to go and get it, which be did. Shared it with Tom, and gave sixpence to Jack Miner.—Thomas Edward Evans said be had beard the evidence of the constable, and the part relating to himself was untrue. He saw defendant give some money to Jack Miner. Was not in accused's "exclusive" company at all. He saw the purse in his possession.—Cross-examined: He hq^l a bottle of ginger beer with him.—Accused pleaded guilty, and deposed that he went up to Tom and asked him how should they get into the concert. Tom subsequently said he would tell him how to get money. You will find plenty in women's pockets go and take some." Tom tried to get a purse from Mrs Jones, Gelly, but failed, and he then took it out.—Accused was sentenced to receive twelve strokes with the birch.