The Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Times

NEWTOWN AFFAIRS. The comprehensive annual report of the Medical Officer of Health for New town was .well worthy the special consideration which it received from the Urban Council on Fri- day evening. Dr Wilson is exceptionally courageous and conscientious, and all of his reports grip the attention and excite that keenness of discussion over matters of pub- lic health, which is necessary to the "rousing up" of sanitary authorities, so strongly de- siderated by the County Medical Officer. It appears that the state of the Sewage Farm is far from satisfactory. It is, indeed, a state which, unless prompt measures are taken, may unfit the farm for the purposes of sewage disposal. According to all evi- dence, the tenant has not fulfilled his obli- gations, and unless he pays due regard im- mediately to the specific requirements of the agreement, the Council cannot tarry over an obvious duty. With reference to the milk supply, Councillor Parry does well to direct attention to the presence of manure heaps in close proximity to milk sheds, not- withstanding repeated official instructions. The Medical Officer, as he himself reasona- bly enough observes, cannot maintain a daily oversight of farmyards, but where such offensive conditions are permitted to exist, the Council should deal sternly with those responsible. Equally important is the close and constant oversight of such in- sanitary courts as Councillor Humphreys particularises. Several of these rookeries of filth and disease have already been closed up, but continuous trouble is caused ly those that have just managed to survive official inspection. If, as the Sanitary In- spector states, property owners are regard- less of the character of tenants, whose filthy habits create injurious nuisances, less con- sideration must be shown them. We are pleased to learn that the Council contem- plate an improvement of the distributive water system, in order that all parts of the town and district may enjoy an adequate supply. Nothing more important can be considered in the discussion of next year's estimates. It is somewhat significant that nothing was said as to the outspoken com- ments of Dr Wilson upon the question of slaughter houses. Silence was, perhaps, not only the safest, but the most expedient attitude. Finally, we trust that the Council will see to it that the County Authority completely carries out its written undertak- ing in connection with the Green Brook, regarding which some doubts seems to have arisen.

IN CALM WATERS. Nothing succeeds like success. The suc- cess of last season's show at Machynlleth, despite serious defections in its manage ment, was distinctly creditable to those who organised and conducted it under circum- stances alike depressing and discouraging. Whatever may be said for the malcontents who withdrew their support, the general public loyally stood by the committee, with the result that the Society possesses a sur- plus balance of P-38 18s 4d, compared to six shillings and tenpence in 1907. At the an- nual meeting, on Wednesday, it was fitting that the Chairman (Mr Edward Hughes) should appeal, as he did with admirable tact, for a reconciliation, which Mr Edmund Gillart heartily and convincingly backed. In institutional life there must always be give and take upon points of difference. Local government would, otherwise, be im- possible. The person with a grievance, or a conviction that he is right and the ma- jority wrong, shows a poor conception of public service by a petulant running away from it. A strong sense of duty should keep him there with the ambition to educate his colleagues to his ways of thinking. We trust that a happy reunion will take place in the management of Machynlleth Show, whose prosperous continuance means much in material benefit for the town and neigh- bourhood.

FOR BROTHERHOOD AND EQUALITY." How splendidly the Church is politically buttressed at Welshpool! There we have, first of all, the Conservative Club, which, while it may admit into membership that political incongruity, the Nonconformist; Tory, has no sympathy with dissent; there is, too, the Primrose League, whose vaunted religious character certainly never laid itself open to the charge of Nonconformist lean- ings; then we have the Church Defence League, of which, incidentally, little has been heard lately, and also a Church Men's Bible Class, which, judging by some of the addresses delivered at the open services of "sacred song," gives political direction when such is deemed necessary. To all these es- sentially Anglican institutions there has just been added a branch of the "Church of England Men's Society," whose righteous ideal is "brotherhood and equality." It would appear from suggestions made at the inaugural meeting that the honorary duties associated with it will be assigned primarily to those members who have been most faithful to the smaH things of the Church, but who may be socially unqualified for the more distinguished lay offices, now monopo- lised by professional men, tradesmen, and the "Trade." Having, however, "brother- hood and equality" as their object, its mem- bers may at the next Easter Vestry feel dis posed to democratise those high offices with men representative of the common people- the wage-earners. For the successs of this society it is thought that an annual levy of sixpence should be made on each member, but Mr Forrester Addie doubts whether the working men would be able to pay even that modest sum. We wonder will that high- placed acknowledgment of such economic conditions in Powysland give material shape to the spirit of "brotherhood and equality," or will this new-born society but serve as another recruiting agency for the political needs of the "auld kirk?"

IS IT TRUE? Is it true that carts used for the lugging of manure are also employed in conveying milk to Welshpool, and that without being cleaned? The question is asked by the Mayor, and Councillor William Humphreys ble for the care of the public health. If also transpires that "very rarely indeed" are samples of milk sold in the town taken by Corporation officials, the urgent need for which is proved by several samples that have been shown to Dr Thomas by individ- ual consumers. These he found "contained sediments that were not conducive to good health." Has Welshpool no inspector of foods and drugs or other guardian of the public health vigilant enough to detect such scandalous things? Sediment in the bottom of the milk vessel is, of course, no uncom- mon thing, but the hawking of milk in dung carts is, surely, the latest revolting dis- closure in connection with the unsatisfac- tory conditions that surround the public milk supply. The Mayor considers it to be "the grave duty of the town's officers to take a little more interest" in a matter which vitally affects the communal health. So ilso must think the people who pay these officers, and depend upon them for whole- some food and drink.

MONTGOMERYSHIRE ODDFELLOWS. Financially solvent and a record member- ship sum up the gratifying speech with which Mr Tomley prefaced the proceedings of the Montgomeryshire Oddfellows at their annual meeting on Wednesday. That hap- py position, we know, has been begotten very largely of the inestimable services ren- dered to Oddfellowship by Mr Tomley him- self, and it illustrates what may be accom- plished by individual effort intensely in love with the objects aimed at. To this gentleman the Friendly Socitey movement is everlastingly indebted, and if he did nothing more in the long years of public service which, we hope, lie before him, he has won an abiding place in the affectionate remembrance of his fellows. We congratu- late the Llanfair Lodge upon securing the Plas Dinam prize of £ 10 for the largest en- rolment of new members during the past II year. The series of handsome prizes offered by Mr David Davies have for their object the strengthening of Friendly Societies in I the county, and the cultivation of temper- ance by dissociating the various lodges from the public houses hitherto used as meeting rooms. Welshpool, we notice, has not qualified to compete for these prizes by reason of its lodges continuing to be held on licensed premises. It cannot, surely, be pleaded that there are no other facilities in Pool. The railway men meet in the Town Hall, which, we have no doubt, could be ac- quired on easy terms by the Friendly So- cieties did they but trouble to make appli- cation. Has application been made, and, if not, why not?

A LIVELY SITUATION. The process of ostracism is being contin- ued by a secreted "Confederacy" of Protec- tionists, who have decreed that Lord Robert Cecil, Mr Gibson Bowles, and some twenty other Tory Free Traders must be driven out of the party, as were the Duke of Devonshire, Sir John Gorst, Mr Ritchie, and Lord Hugh Cecil. This is the penalty which is to be exacted of able and honest politicians who cannot subscribe to the nebulous and thimble-rigging policy of Mr Balfour. How effectively Lord Robert pour- trays the desperate and destructive, uncon- stitutional and unfair tactics of this "Con- federacy" of men like Mr Rowland Hunt, who, he says, "greatly overestimate their importance in the affairs of the world," and shoot from belftnd the scenes at men who are the mainstay of the Conservative party. "If this is the result of Tariff Reform when it is only a party cry, what will happen to the country," asks Lord Robert, "when it becomes part of the legislation of the land?" Now that the Protectionists have decided upon a Tariff Reform budget whenever Toryism gets back to power-presumably with the sanction of Mr Balfour-they plain- ly declare that there can be no room in that Cabinet for Free Traders. Since Lord Robert and all other banned Tories are de- termined to fight the conspirators, we may prospect lively times with feelings akin to pity, and complacently contemplate "the coming triumph" which a local Tory con- temporary conceives of the accession of Lord Derby to the ranks of the food- taxers.

NEWTOWN URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL On Friday evening, Newtown Urban Coun- cil held a special meeting to consider the annual report of the medical officer, Dr Wilson. The Chairman (Mr A. S. Cooke) presided, and there were also present Messrs John Humphreys, John Parry, A. Ford, T. A. Forster, E. Bennett, W. H. Evans, S. Powell, Richard George, J. H. Jones, S. H. Jarvis, and G. H. Ellison, to- gether with the Clerk, Medical Officer, and Surveyor. The Chairman, in opening the discussion, I j ,You are all> 1 am sure> delighted to find that our Medical Officer has been able to present such a very satisfactory report on the whole. The general public will be pleased to see that the death rate still keeps I remarkably low—12.8. I think that will compare very favourably with any town in the Principality. So I think we are getting rewarded for our perseverance in the past. With regard to the other items, our Clerk is very anxious that I should refer to the birth rate-a he is an authority. in the matter- and this again is very satisfactory. The milk supply also is very satisfactory, as there was only one conviction registered. I -think it would be wise for us to take all these matters in the order given to them by the Medical Officer. Mr Parry: I should like to know from the doctor whether there is any record for the previous ten years. The Medical Officer: Oh, they are worse. We have only once been below 12, and that was the year before last, and it has been as high as 19. Mr Parry: It would seem a good basis to work on if we had the previous 10 years. The Medical Officer: Our average for the past ten years is 15. The infantile death rate is the most impotrant of all. Mr Humphreys: Are not they fixed on too high a population? The Medical Officer: I am bound to work on the census; there will be another' directly. The Chairman: There is a good increase in the birth rate, but it is a long way be- hind previous years. The Medical Officer: Last year it was an exceptionally low one. Humphreys: With reference to the birth rate, I should like to know whether it is necessary for the doctor to make the fact births" take plLS to how many illegitimate bIrths take place? JT M1e?jcal Officer: Yes, absolutely, ine Local Government Board ask for it. WHO IS RESPONSIBLE ? Mr Humphreys: There is one case of a death resulting from a foul drain. Who is responsible for that, the Council or the owners? The Medical Officer: The owners, I ex pect. Mr Forster: Was it really attributable to a foul drain? The Medical Officer: Well, that was all I could trace it to, and you are expected to trace these things. After it had been pointed out that it was not a death, but merely a case of diph- th. riw The Surveyor said that the case was due to the uncleanly habits of the inmates of the house where it occurred. Mr Humphreys: I think all these cases should be known, for such cases are only put down to the lowest of society, and this proves that such is not always the case. WATER SUPPLY TO BE IMPROVED. The next matter to be considered was the water supply, and Mr Jarvis said that their Medical Officer had mentioned that the water pipes in some parts of the town were deficient, and would want replacing. He was afraid that they would find that there were a great many parts of the town in which the pipes were deficient. The Water Committee should take into their consideration the question of relaying the pipes in those parts, and he thought he was correct that the committee contemplated a definite policy of doing that work by instalments. In his opinion that was one of the things which ought to be taken in hand when they considered next year's estimates. There were not many things connected with the public health more important than this. There was also the question of filter beds. All those works they ought not to leave until compelled to execute them, and have to incur a large expenditure. They ought to do it by de- grees, and take time by the forelock as well. The Chairman: I am pleased to think that the Water Committee have got this' matter in hand. Mr Humphreys remarked that the Water Committee had had this question under con- sideration for a very long time, and would as soon as circumstances required relay the in- efficient pipes in town as well as outside the town. There had been considerable difficulty experienced at the reservoir dur- ing the last few days, which involved ex- penditure. Their Surveyor had had a great deal of trouble, but he was proud to say that Mr Jones had proved equal to the case, whether required there night or day (hear, hear). He was always there when required, and the Council should heartily support him, because he certainly was a very effi- cient official, who never considered his own comfort or convenience, but the safety and the benefit of the town (hear, hear). He I should like if the Surveyor would let the Council know what had been done at the reservoir during the past few days. The Surveyor: The committee are only allowed an expenditure of P,2, unless spec- ial permission was given to exceed that sum. During the last week we have had a rather serious landslip at the reservoir, and I thought it necessary for the protection of the works to do urgent work, which has en- tailed an expenditure of about P-9. I should like the Council to sanction that expendi- ture, which has safeguarded the water sup- ply- The Council readily agreed to this, and also approved the suggestion of Mr Jarvis. THE MILK SUPPLY. The Chairman said he was gratified to note what the doctor had said in his report concerning the milk supply, and the im- provements that had been effected in con- nection with the cowsheds. He thought that splendid work had been done during the past year. Mr Parry: The doctor has repeatedly re- ferred to the presence of manure heaps too near to the cowsheds. I should like to know if these heaps are now kept quite I clear away. Dr Wilson: In most cases they are. Mr Parry: I notice in one or two in- stances that the heaps of manure are still close to the cowsheds, notwithstanding the owners' attention has been called to them. Dr Wilson: I cannot, of course, be in- specting these farmyards every week. Mr Jarvis: There has been great im- provement in this respect during the year. SLAUGHTER HOUSES. In his report the Medical Officer stated that he had had trouble with a slaughter house situated in a very congested and in- sanitary area, but was pleased to say that he had got the owner to pay more attention to cleanliness and sanitation in general. But as the position of this slaughter house was bad, he suggested that the owner should obtain a better site, seeing that he does a large business. He was sorry that the Council had sanctioned another slaughter house for that gentleman in another part of the town, which he regarded as unsuitable for the purpose. The other slaughter houses were kept in a good condition. He advo- cated the erection of a public abattoir, un- less the owner of the slaughter house in the congested area could find a better situation for carrying on his business. for carrying on his business. The Chairman: I am sure we all side with our Medical Officer. I hope the time is not far distant when perhaps we shall be able to take some definite course of action in regard thereto. Perhaps the Chairman of the Sanitary Committee would like to make a few observations upon the doctor's report on this matter. Mr Powell: I have nothing to add to the Medical Officer's report. The Chairman: If there is no other com- ment we shall have to pass on to other parts of the report. A PECULIAR CASE. Reading from the doctor's report with reference to the treatment of nuisances that had arisen from time to time, the Chairman said that this showed the advantage of hav- ing an efficient Medical Officer and Sanitary Inspector. Mr Humphreys: Hear, hear. The Chairman: I think it is highly satis- factory. Mr Humphreys: A certain court was con- demned some time ago, and the people cleared out of it, but there are still people in it, and it is in a very insanitary state cer- tainly. I don't know whether the doctor is aware of it. Dr Wilson: That is the landlord's fault. We have nothing more to do with it mean- time. He should deal with these people. Mr Humphreys: But I think the doctor has to do with it. Dr Wilson: Yes, we may force the land- lord, if need be. Mr Humphreys: Well, I think it is high time it should be attended to. I think the one landlord has cleared out all the tenants but the people are still living in the other, The Chairman: I think the matter is re- ceiving the attention of the Medical Officer. Mr Ford: Has anything been done as a result of that statutory notice? The Chairman: The Surveyor tells me they are bUsy at the work. Mr Humphreys: The court I refer to is Vaynor s-court, Penygloddfa Dr Wilson: This is rather a peculiar case. It was brought about by the landlord him- self wanting it condemned. I condemned it on account of the filthy habits of the ten- ants, and he was to see to their ejectment but 1 suppose they won't go out. ,^r,, Humphreys: Do you think they should be there? Dr Wilson: No. We have done all in our power to get them out. You know what tenants of that class are. You cannot easilv get them out. y The Surveyor: We have other similar cas&s. If people can make 2s a week, thev don t care who goes into their houses, or in what state their houses become. Mr Humphreys: Well, I think these cases should be attended to. The Chairman: I believe that this is a matter on which we shall hear from our Medical Officer. Mr Humphreys: The Surveyor says there are other cases, and plenty of them. THE SCHOOLS. The Chairman: About the water supply to the schools. This has been a very vexed question, and we are pleased to say it has been settled during the last month. We all look forward to working harmoniouslv with the County Council and the Education Authority in this matter. The Doctor said he was pleased with the sanitary improvements effected at the Coun- cil schools, but the water closet system at the Penygloddfa Council School was not up to date. The Surveyor: The improvements effected are not much better than what previously existed, except those referred to by the Doctor. The open trough system is still being adopted by the County Council Sur- veyor, which I and the Medical Officer have previously strongly condemned. Mr Powell: Has nothing been done with reference to the Penygloddfa Schools ? The Surveyor: Not in the way of addi- v'y tional flushing. I should like to see an automatic flushing. Mr Powell: They were in a very satisfac- tory state when I last saw them. Dr Wilson: They are making improve- ments, but not quite what they ought to be. The Chairman: We can leave this mat- ter in the hands of our Medical Officer and Sanitary Inspector. Mr Powell: But would it not be wise to call their attention t. this school? Dr Wilson: I have done so in my reports. I have furnished the reports to the County Council to-day. THE GREEN BROO.K With regard to the raising of the wall alongside the Green Brook, Mr Parry asked what had the County Council agreed to. Had they not agreed to raise the wall above the Plantation-lane? He considered it as necessary to raise it above as below that part. The Chairman: The County Council will, no doubt, carry out their obligations, and no doubt the Clerk and Surveyor will watch that that is done. Mr Parry: I have never heard it defin- itely stated what was the distance they had agreed to. The Surveyor: As far as I recollect, the wall is to be raised up to the distance of the old toll gate.

A DRAPER'S CUSTOMER. Charged with Forgery at Welshpool Tale of a Missing Cheque Book. Asa relieving excise officer, Stanley Whitworth Harrison was stationed some years ago at New- town, LlanidL es, and Welshpool Last Thursday, hailing from Leeds, he appt-ared as a prisoner on r, ttiand at the Welshpool Police Court charged with forging and titt-ring A false cheque for .£3. Various parts of the country were mentioned as 'he story of alleged crime was unfolded before the Mayor (Dr R. D Thomas), Mr Maurice Jehu, and Mr William Humpnrsys. The local chapter was supplied by a Broad-street draper-Samuel <'arsle; Roger-, who said that the prisoner cume into his shop about haif-past three on Monday afternoon, the 28th of last month. An assistant served him with two white bow ties, for which he paid. An hour later he came in again, and asked witness to show him some woollen blurts. Wit- ness served him with two shirts ut 7d each. Prisoner took a cheque out of his pocket, and naked if he could cash him the cheque frr -89 Witness told him he could not. He then asked him if he couid CASH HIM ONE FOR .£3, as he had not sufficient change to pay for the shirts Witness then gave him the shirts and X2 6s change, and kept the cheque. Prisoner asked him to send the shirts to the Dragon Hocel, Montg mery. Witness sent the shirts therw by post to S. W. Harrison, Esq. and did not pay the cheque into his account, but cashed it over the counter at the London City and Midland Bank (la' e North and South Wales Bank). He afterwards had to refund the .£3, the Bank informing him that there was no account in the drawer's name. After this he gave information to the police. Arthur Owen Williams, chief clerk of the National Provincial Bank at MiddSeeboro', said that a cheque book for 2:1. cheques had been issued to a customer, Mr G B Tayton, Railway Hotel, Swindon. He produced the order for the cheque book which was marked with the letter A, and numbered w96,L97 to w96,220. On XiZiuatj let, 1909, a cheque for £ 3 numbered 98,210 caum into tee bank at Middlesborough through the London clearing in the ordinary way. The cheque was published to be drawn by Thomas J. Everton," payable to S. W. Harrison, Esq." There was no account in the namlt of Ererton, and the chequa was returned to the London City and Midland Bank, Weishpool, marked "NO ACCOUNT." Prisoner said he had no question to ask witness. George Baxter Tayton, a traveller, living at 43 Russell-road, Wimbledon, said he had an account at the Middlesborough branch of the National Provincial Bank In October, 1908, he was stay- ing at Swindon, and received a cheque-book from the bank at Middlesborough. He used some of the cheques, the number of the last he used being w96,208, dated November 29th, for X2 15s, which agreed with the counterfoil in the book. When drawing this cheque, he was at the Horse and Jockey Hotel, Basingstoke, and he missed the cheque-book when going from Basingstoke to Canterbury. He bad known prisoner for six months, he having bean assistunt-manager at the Touring Trades Exhibition, for which i e was engaged as traveller. Harrison Rtayed at the same hotel as he did at Basingstoke. On Novem- ber 30th witness left his coat containing the cheque-book hanging in his room while he went for a bath. He remembered that on Sunday, November 29th, prisoner asked him if he was srill taking cold baths, and he replied ha was. He knew a gentleman the name of Rev J. Everton. He was at one time manager of the Exhibition. He never at any time gave or lent Everton or prisoner A, BLANK: CHEQUE. P C. Ellis, Denbigh, said that on Thursday, th# 14th inst, he apprehended prisoner on D#nbi«h Railway Station platform. He took him to the lock-up, searched him, and found in his possession a cheque-book (produced) of the Middlesborough Bank (which Tayton had identified), together with three leose cheques, some money, and some articles of jewellery, These loose cheques corres- ponded with the counterfoils in the cheque-book. He handed prisoner over to Sergt. Hughes, of Welshpool. Prisoner had a portmanteau and other things. Sergt, Hughes said that on January 1st, having received information from Mr S. C. Rogers, he obtained a warrant for prisoner's arrest on Jan. 5th. He obtained the shirts from Montgomery on New Yttar's Day, and circulated information to various police stations. On January 14th he received a wire from Superintendent Jones, Denbigh, that Harrison was in custody there. Witness went there to receive prisoner into custody, and at Welshpool charged him with forgery. Prisoner replied, "I had better say nothing at present." Amoner the loose cheques was one drawn by "Thomas J. Everton" for .£5, payable to S. W. Harrison." There were two ties in the portmanteau. He did not know until the previous night that there was such a person as Thomas J. Everton, and he at once wired to find him, but had failed to obtain him as a witness. The Mayor said it was very essential to have Everton as a witness. Prisoner applied for bail on his own recognis- ances, but the Mayor said the charge was too serious for them to accept such a surety. At the resumed hearing, on Friday, Thomas Jakeman .Everton, said he was engaged with pri- soner last year at a touring exhibition. The signatures on the cheques produced were not his, and he had authorised no one to draw cheques in his name on the National Provincial Bank, Middlesboro'. He had no account at the bank. Prisoner, when formally charged, said, "I WILL NOT SAY ANYTHING at all." The Mayor then committed him to the Assizes, which takes place at Welshpool to-morrow (Tuns- day), ) Prisoner: What bail will be required ? Sergt. Hughes: The police oppose bail, seeing that the time is so shert. Prisoner said it would not give him a proper chance to get testimonials such as for good char- acter, etc.. if he was not allowed bail. Sergt. Hughes replied that he would have every facility given him by the police and prison autho- rities for getting up his defence. Mr Jehu (to prisoner): You are not in a posi- tion to get bail for X200 or X300, and we could not take less. Prisoner: Can T have the money found on me by the police (J61 38 4d) returned ? The Magistrates' Clerk (Mr Yearsley) said he thought he should warn the Btnch that theiewa* a new Act whereby money found on prisoner's possession could be taken to defray the prosecu- tion if they were foand guilty. The Bench ordered the restoration of the money.

Insanitary Montgomeryshire. SOME DISGUSTING PICTURES. Mr J. Thomas, taniUry inspector of the Newtown and Llanidloes Rural District Council, presented the following report at Wednesday's meeting:— Brook House, Little London, Llandinam, occupied by Mr Rd. Swain.—On the 17th December last I served a notice on the agent of this property to provide proper drainage to carry away the liquid manure from cow-shed and piggeries, which now flows over the yard front of the housa, also to provide troughing to the eaves of the house, and a pure water supply. The present supply is obtained from an open gutter, which is most unsatisfactory So far the work has not been carried out, and I now apply for instructions to serve a 28 days statutory notice. The Cwm, Llandinam, occupied by Mr George Meddins.—The closet accommodation on these premises is very unsatisfactory. The present struc, ture which serves as a privy is in a tumble down condition, and cannot be used. The water supply, too, is obtained from an unsatisfactory source. Notice was served upon the owner on the 17th of December, but the work has not been done. I apply for instructions to serve a statutory notice. Bronhaul, Llanwnog, occupied by Mr J. Richards. —I served notice on the 15th inst. on the owner of these premises to provide proper closet accommoda- tion, and a pure and adequate water supply. He came to see me yesterday on the matt-r, and expressed his intention of carrying out the work as soon as possible. Rhosgoch, Llanwnog, occupied by Mr J. Hughes.— I tound these premises in a most unhealthy eondition. The roof leaks badly in several places. There is no troughing provided, and the eaves water soaks into the foundation walls causing dampness to arise in the house, and a portion of the house is in snch a dilapidated condition that it is liable at any time to give way. I served notice on the 15th, and will report to you at a later stage.

NEWTOWN'S SEWAGE FARM. Charge Against the Tenant. At a special meeting of the Newtown Urban Council held on Friday evening the Chairman (Mr Albert S. Cooke) said that the Medical Officer's reference in his annual report to the state of the Sewage Farm was most important. The Doctor stated that unless septic tanks were put down the farm would go from bad to worse, although, if properly attended to, and all parts of the firns used for sewage disposal, he did not see why the land was not sufficient for all the town's sewage. He strongly condemned three large pools which had boon allowed to form on the ftum, and also recommended tUat the tenant k ep a caretaker in the house to constantly control the effluent in the carriers. Mr Ford: It wouid be interesting to know the special causes that call for this report, because 12 mon hs ago the report of the -Me;licil Officer was that the farm was then in a better condition than ever. Dr Wilson That is perfectly true, but it has fallen off since, just in the way it has hitherto done. Mr Ford: The Surveyor will perhaps inform us of the special causes. The Surveyor: It has always been the case that the tenant, on entering the farm, keeps everything in good order The carriers under his control are absolutely neglected. The reison the farm looks even as well as it does now is not due to the teuant at all. I have had to take it under my own control and we have expended more in labour down there than we were really called upon to do. Mr Ford: Has the tenant's attention been called to the facts ? The Surveyor Several times. The Chairman Would vou like to take anv action in this matter ? MR EVANS POINTS THE DUTY. Mr Evam During recent years we have spent a good deal of money on the sewage farm, in pav- ing yards and renewing some of the flushing boards, although I obst-rve in the Doctor's report uhat he requests more renewing of these flushing boards, We have also attended to the carriers under our immediate control and placed them in such a manner that it is possible to regulate the farm properly; we have done other things to improve is, and I believe it is the imenti -n of the Council at an early date to complete the work they hare in hand. But the Council has another duty to perform and it is to see that the tenant performs his obligations according to his agree- ment. I do not wish to say anything disparag- ing about the tenant, because I believe he is a good tenant and a good farmer, but we are custodians of the ratepayers, and it is our duty to see that he meets his obligations. The main carrier system on the farm is immediately under the control of the Council, and the branch carriers under the immediate control of the tenant, and that has always el"en the case. In the past there has been a want of harmonious working between the Council and the tenant. It is simply useless the Council looking after thf'ir portion of the carriers if the tenant neglects his I don't say that the present tenant has b-en neglectful, but there has been this trouble. If the carrier system had been working properly it would have been a great success, but instead of that it has been on more than one occasion completely blocked, and become a failure. The Council must exercise its authority in this respect and soe that the tenant carefully attends to his duty, and that be also keeps a caretaker in the for the proper regulation of the sewage matter. Unless this is dene we shall be put to ENORMOUS EXPENSE on the farm. I d-) not entirely agree with tha Doctor regarding the proposed provision of septic tanks, because I have vi ited the farm on several occasions, and am firmly convinced that if the Council and the tenant worked harmoniously together the carrier system would suffice. We have no wish to harass the tenant-farmers have enough of difficulties to contend with-but we must look after the ratepayers' interests by seeing that he attends to the requirements of his agreement. Mr Ford I am surprised to hear that there has been anything like friction between the Council and the tenant. I don't know in what form it has taken place, but I believe Mr Morris to be a very reasonable man, and if his attention was called officially to these shortcomings, or supposed short- comings, I believe he would put the matter right at once. I would propose that an official com- munication be sent to him to this effect, asking him for an explanation, or for an undertaking to put things in order. Mr Jarvis seconded. The Chairman I understand from the Sur- veyor that communications have been sent to him, but perhaps if we send another and call his atten- tion to the fact that the matter has arisen from the Medical Officer's r port, he will take immedi- ate action. The Doctor. I am afraid it will have to be strongly worded because the carriers were never worse than they are now The Chairman: There is also the Doctor's recommendation as to the importance of keeping a caretaker in the house at the farm. It is in accordance with the agreement that there should IT, ba a person there. Mr Forster: The dwelling house was provided with that intention. Mr Bennett agreed that when he visited the farm a short time ago the carriers were in a very bad state. Those belonging to the farmer were entirely neglected and full up, while those under the control of the Council were quite free and open. Hit thought there should be more sluices on the farm. Mr Powell thought that the abnormal rain was some excuse for the tenant, though undoubtedly he was to blame for the condition of the carriers. They had become silted up until the stuff over- flowed and made a large pool which bad stood there for some time. The tenant must be re- quired to keep them in order. STRINGENT MEASURES. Mr Humphreys: We should inform him that unless he carries out his agreement we shall have to change the tenancy. I don't think it is wise to mince matters. If he has neglected his duties wilfully then I think it is high time we should take action (hear, hear). Mr J H. Jones: Does Mr Morris thoroughly understand the working of the carriers P The Chairman List year the Medical Officer reported that the state of the farm was highly satisfactory unfortunately it has gone back very much during the last year. Mr Ford: I don't aDDrove the DroDoeal of Mr Humphreys. ,The man's attention should be called to it officially, and then if he does not do his duty we may adopt the course suggested. Let him have a fair chance. The Surveyor I should like you to hear some of the letters I have written to him. Mr Humphreys That is the important point. He has been written to, but does not seem to take any notice. Mr Ford: Perhaps not, but if he receives an official notice through the Clerk it will have greater effect. Mr Evans It is not the fault of the farmer at all, but that of the Council. It is the Council's duty to see that the tenant keeps to his agree- ment to the letter. If we only did that it would be all right. It was thereafter resolved that the Clerk write the tenant pointing out the necessity of his com- pliance with the provisions of the agreement between himself and the Council.

R 7TH MONTGOMERY AND MERIONETH BATTALION ROTAL WELSH FUSILIERS. REGIMENTAL ORDERS BT LIEUT.-COL SIR W. L. NAPIER, BART, Commanding Headquarters, Newtown, 23rd January, 1909. ENLISTMENT.—No 371 John Eveson having en listed on the 14th January, 1909, is taken on tbo etrength of the Battalion, posted to A Company, Montgomery, and allotted Regimental number as stated against his name. PERMANENT STAFF -No 3144 Clr-Sergt In- structor T. Nicholl having been posted to this Battalion for duty from the 4th R.W. Fusiliers, is taken on the strength from the 21st inst., and posted to H Company, Bala. INSTRUCTION.—Second Lieut. Owen Owen, G Company has been selected to attend a course of instruction at the Depot, Wrexham, from -the 25th January to the 20th February, 1909. A. T. C. BUNDLE, Captain. Adjutant 7th Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers.

SEEN AND HEAR tfotbine «rtenMst»«, nor Jc.r;: »n-r«t 3H t. K. A highly esteemed, but extremely timid, citizen of Newtown owns an outlying garden, adjacent to others, in which he finds re- creation admirably suited to his quiet and inoffensive nature. The other morning he was observed by his young friend Harry emerging from this little vineyard mani- festly excited and pale as a ghost. "What's the matter with you, Mr ? You look as if you have been scared," inquired Harry. "Oh," answered the citizen, in trembling tones of positive terror, "there's an awful thing in my garden!" "Where? Where about?" "Just down there," pointing to a weather-beaten tub; "it's an awful looking creature!" Harry at once essayed to sa- tisfy himself, but the citizen clutched him desperately by the coat tail, remarking that if anything happened he could never forgive himself. "Well," persisted Harry, "tell me what the dicken's it is like." "Oh, I think it's an otter, or some other awful wild brute. Don't you go near it!; we'll get someone with a gun!" Prevented from prosecuting investigations single-handed, Harry was, however, not to be deprived of curiosity's satisfaction, so straightway he made off in search of assist- ance, leaving the citizen quivering in the lane. Happily, he soon met a postman, re- puted for physical courage as much as for horticultural attainments. Abreast of this man of letters, Harry marched along the garden path in the direction of the old tub, both being armed with heavy stakes, with which to drive the awful creature from its lair. Very gingerly the timid citizen fol- lowed some twenty paces in the rear, the while exhorting the pair not to provoke the terrible beast, hyphened with pleadings to "come back." Needless to say, these disconcerting warn- ings enjoined great caution on the part of the heroic chiels, as they stalked the tub and marked the spoor of the creature with all the art of bush Indians. With muscles taut, but nerves working merrily, they crept nearer and nearer still, until they got within striking distance, when the ponder- ous stakes were raised for attack or defence, as circumstances would order. By this time the citizen was beside himself with excited apprehension. What if the beast should spring out and kill those daring spirits ? -Their blood would be upon his head. Or what if it were to dash past them and seize his quivering flesh? Numberless times he looked back over his shoulder to make cer- tain that the gate was ajar for uninter- rupted flight, and the lane clear for a record-breaking sprint. At last the hunters were within feet of the dread tub, and a low howl which emanated from it shattered the citizen's last remaining nerve. Amidst his frantic screams there suddenly sprang from beneath the tub a large shaggy Persian cat, and scooted through the boundary hedge. Here the curtain must be lowered on the scene and the sequel. An epidemic of juvenile pilfering from shops at Welshpool has moved the local Bench to reprove that form of temptation which makes an unguarded display of goods upon the frontages of business premises. No one likes to hamper the efforts of enter- prising tradesmen prompted by keen com- petition, but I have often thought that this is a kind of temptation in wrong-doing not only to children of questionable upbringing. The lad who helps himself, in passing, to a handful of gooseberries or raids a fruit gar- den, would not, under ordinary circum- stances, think of annexing a pair of boots from the shop door; but when the pinch of poverty incites him to the dishonesty of desperation, temptation is hard to with- stand. Detection and punishment in such cases often mark the beginning of a career of crime. Shunned by youthful companions, who brand him as a convicted thief, the crushing consciousness of guilt and shame overpowers the lad's struggle back towards goodness, and, finally, the sense of self- respect is driven out of him by the cruelty of aspersion. This is, in brief, the life his- tory of many a hardened criminal, who first fell to temptation aggravated by the stress of circumstances. Verily, ours is a cruel world for those who sin, and it is only when a member of our own family strays from the moral track that we really realise this fact, and our humanity seeks to get behind the veil of tragedy with a compassionate, kindly eye. How finely the poet Burns, in his address to the "unco guid" and rigidly righteous, warms our milk of human kind- ness Then gently scan your brother man, Still gentler sister woman Tho' they may gang a kennin wrang, To step aside is human. One point mu-,t still be greatly dark, The moving why they do it; And just as lameiy cm ye mark How far perhaps they rne it. Then at the balance let's be mute, We never can adjust it; What's done we partly may compute, But know not what's resisted. Builders' yards are not exactly the places where one might hope to behold patterns of tidiness. Lumbersome logs, bricks and mortar, shavings and odd bits, and other miscellanea do not lend themselves to either neat or picturesque arrangement, however methodical and careful their owner. In such a yard, situate not far from the first town on the Severn, there had lain for some time a number of pipes. The whole en- closure was tested to its utmost capacity by stock of various kinds, and these huge arti- cles seriously obstructed the main passage, much to the annoyance of the proprietor, who had probably barked his shins more than once upon them. At any rate, he had given repeated orders for their immediate removal elsewhere, but the yard, as I have noted, was so crowded that his servants knew not whither to convey them. So they lay until the "boss's" patience gave out completely. "Why were they not removed?" he demanded to know of one of his servants. "Where shall I put them, sir?" queried the latter. "Anywhere, man, anywhere, and do it at once; these beastly things are always an my way" The servant scanned the yard in vain for an available corner. There wasn't a foot of spare room. He was scratching his head by the pipes ten minntes later, when the master again passed. "Say, governor," he repeated, "where can I remove them things to?" This proved to be the last straw. The governor got reckless both in look and speech. "To h-, if you like!" said he. "Well," observed the workman, still scratching his pate, "I'm afraid, sir, as they'd certainly be in your way there!" Luxa SuAnsiL