The Montgomeryshire Express and Radnor Times

TERRITORIALS AT DINNER IN THE COUNTY TOWN. Interesting Speeches. The annual dinner given by Capt. David Davies to the members of the Montgomery detachment of A Company, 7th R.W.F., took place at the Dragon Hotel, Montgomery, on Saturday evening week, when a large number sat'down to an excellent meal, pro- vided by Mrs Clipston. In the unavoidable absence of Capt. Davies, Mr T. Morgan-Owen presided, and he was supported by Lieut. W. J. Evans, Colonel Cautley. R.E., Dr. Kirk, Capt. G. Morgan-Owen, Ald. C. P. Davies, the Revs. H. Rollason and P. Adams, Mr J. E. Tomley, and others. After dinner, the loyal toasts were given from the chair and duly honoured. The toast of "The Army, Navy, and Auxiliary Forces was proposed by the Chairman, who said he would mention the names of Rodney and Clive, be- cause they were connected with the county of Mont- gomery. Clive won for us the Empire of India, and by so doing added to the titles of our monarch that of Emperor. As to Rodney, be introduced the new sys- tem of war, that of smashing through the enemy's vessels. As regards the auxiliary forces, they bad a few samples there that evening, and he was sure if they were called upon to do other duty they would do it in a most efficient and courageous manner (cheers). Col. H. Cautley and Capt. G. Morgan Owen replied. Lieut. W. J. Evans said the prizes offered by Capt. Davies for the best kept tents in the A Company in camp had been won by the Montgomery detachment, as follows 1, Corporal J. Brighouse's tent; 2, Sergt. John Davies's tent. Mr J. E. Tomley proposed the toast of The 7th Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers and Our Officer." Speaking from an intimate knowledge of the district, he said no hindrance was put in the way of any man joining the Territorial forces either by parents or em- ployers. The year had been one in which the Terri- torials lately had had several red letter days. Last November they had the first combined turn-out of the Territorials of the district, when the Yeomanry and Infantry joined in signalising the Mayor's reaching his eleventh year of office. They had also had what they had never had before, a combined shooting at the Penarth Range, when the Yeomanry carried off the trophies. Now, they had a miniature rifle range. As to their officers he expected that some day they would se Captam Davies riding at the head of the battalion as its colonel-it had been a year of signal success for bim-be bad won a seat and he bad won a bride, and if at his wedding he would like to have a guard of honour he was sure the men of the Montgomery detachment would be unanimous in responding to the call to attend. They bad one officer of the battalion present-(cbeers)-and from what he had heard of him he believed he was as popular with the men as an officer as he was with those with whom he associated in his official capacity.—The toast was received with musical honours and cheers were lustily given for Lieut. Evans and Lieut. E. W. Lloyd-Jones, the second lieutenant of A Company. Lieut. Evans, who was warmly received, said he should like to explain the reason why Captain Davies was not present was because he was not very well. What they wanted was more men. For the county of Montgomery be thought they wera about 90 short until that unprecedented event in Newtown on the previous Saturday, when they succeeded in enrolling 55 recruits. That left a deficiency of 45 men. As to A Company, they were from 15 to 20 short. That was not much, but they were extremely anxious to have the full strength in camp this year, and they wanted the people of Montgomery to do their best to help them. Montgomery had done its share, but it was not too much to expect than it would do more than its sharef Last year Montgomery had 21 mem- bers of those he was pleased to say that 20 attended camp—that was^ little short of remarkable. All stayed for the 15 days except five, who only stayed eight. That compared more than favourably with any company in the battalion. They had enrolled six recruits, which was very good. The number of men whose terms of engagement expired on March 19th was 15, and he hoped they would stop behind that night and be enrolled again. He understood from the sergeant that they intended to do so. If they could count on thirty from Montgomery, he thought they would do very well. This year they would camp at Aberystwyth, and the camp should be very attractive, because it was to be'a Divisional Camp. They would probably have 20,000 men, representing all branches of the Welsh Division in camp. Nothing could be more interesting from their point of view than to work with the Yeomanry, the Engineers and the Artillery. As far as the Montgomery detachment was concerned, he could earnestly say that nowhere in the battalion were there finer soldiers and no men who knew their work better. "We know for certain," said Lieut. Evans, that we can rely on these men when occasion arises, but there is just this I would say, the youngest recruit takes his <?ue from the old soldiers, and you should be an example to the others (hear, hear). One word more, and that is this-tbat if sometimes officers appear to be severe or annoyed," the real reason for that arises from their keenness in wishing to ensure that their Company shall be the best, and so far as A Company is concerned it can be the hest." Private C. Davies Jones, in giving the toast of Our Visitors," said he hoped the gentlemen present would put every facility in the way of their employees to enable them to join the Terriers," but he would liko to remind those who proposed joining A Company that they must not expect an easy time. Captain Davies was a very keen and enthusiastic officer, who insisted on his men doing their work thoroughly, but he made up for all this by his generosity in entertain- ing them at functions of this kind, and in offering them prizes, which no other captain gave, which made them soon forgat their bard' morning's work. On behalf of the men he wished especially to thank Captain Davies for his great kindness in taking them to see the National Welsh Pageant at Cardiff, and those who witnessed the performance would never forget it. In conclusion, Private Jones said he was very pleased to see present two gentlemen who had seen active service, viz., S. S.-Major Geo. Holloway and Captain Morgan-Owen. Rev H. Rollason, in a crisp speech, responded, and Lieut. Evans gave the toast of the Chairman, which was duly responded to. Songs were given by Mr J. M. Tipping, Private G Powell, Alderman C. P. Davies, and Lieut. W. J. Evans. who bad to respond to a vociferous encore. A very happy evening ended by singing the National Anthem.

PRESENTATION TO MR. CHARLES FARMER. An Interesting Retrospect. Never mind his creed he's a very decent man This tribute to a Roman Catholic priest was uttered by a Protestant in Great Oak-street, Llan- 'idloes, last Thursday evening, when a company that numbered between 60 and 70 had emerged from the Trewythen Arms. From two upper windows of the hotel there hung two "Gnion Jacks to indicate that some event had been celebrated therein. It was a coming-of-age celebration, and a dinner given by Mr Charles Farmer, heir to the Farmer Estate. A grandson of the late Colonel G.- M. Farmer, the eldest son of the late Mr and Mrs Charles Tempest Farmer had been fatherless ten years and motherless for the past seven years. Since then the guardian of the family had been a gentleman, whose presence as president at this coming-of-age dinner had evoked that broad-minded tribute from an Idloesian-" Never mind his creed he's a decent man Very tall, but possessing a well proportioned, handsome, and genial presence, the gentleman thus spoken of was the Right Rev. Monsignor Grosch, a member of the Court of Pius X., Lord-in-Waiting to the Pope, and rector of St. John the Evangelist ,Islington. The dining room of the Trewythen had been gaily adorned with festoons of flags for the occasion, whilst daffodils-the real Leek" of St. David's Day- figured most prominently as table decorations. In one corner there sat at a harp the pathetic figure of a Welshman, who could not behold the daintiness of the room, for he was Lady Llanover's Blind Harpist. To satisfy the sturdy appetites of the country folk the following menu was served in Mr Toole's well- known manner Soup tomato joints, roast beef and mutton, veal, boiled mutton and caper sauce, chickens and ham sweets, apple tart, mince pies, cheese cakes, trifles, wine jellies, cheese, biscuits. With Miss L. A. Jones, Gorn View, as accompanist, a musical programme had also been arranged, con- sisting of songs by Miss Eveline Davies, Messrs Tom Davies, and R. M. Davies. A table to the right of the chair was laden with presents, for three members of the present generation of Farmers were to be recipients. Most prominent was a framed illuminated address, which bore the following wording Presented to Charles Farmer, Esq., on the occasion of his coming-of-age. We, the undersigned tenants of the Farmer Estate in the parishes of Llanidloes, Llandinam, and Tref- eglwys. and County of Montgomery, and other friends in the neighbourhood, hereby beg to offer you our hearty congratulations on the auspicious occasion of your this day attaining your majority and coming into possession of your estate. We ask you, to accept this address and album, and the accompanying silver clock and travelling bag, as marks of our warm good will and esteem, and as tokens of our sincere hope that you may enjoy long life, prosperity, and all the happiness that this world can afford you. Dated at Llanidloes this 26th day of February, 1910.—Signed on behalf of the Committee and sub- scribers, Gwilym Edmunds (Bank Manager), Chairman, E. D. Evans, Clap, Treasurer, Edward Davies (Estate Agent), Secretary." Near by rested a handsomely bound album con- taining a list of subscribers -Mr David Davies, M.P., Plas Dinam Colonel Baskerville, J.P., Berthddu Captain Baskerville, J-P-, Berthddu Messrs T. R. Morris, J.P.. Dol-llys M. Bennett Owen, J.P., Gwernafon Gwilym Edmunds, J.P., Dolenog Rev James Jones, Llwynderw Edward Davies, Prospect House R. E. -S. Davies, Prospect House David Jones, Hirnant John Evans, Clap Joshua Wigley, Blaen hafren Edward Ashton, Maesyblawd Rd. Edwards, Trap John Davies, Pencastle Richard Jones, Croeslyn John Humphreys, Hensarn Mill John Tudor, Cefnbach Richard Jones, Cwm Evan Owen, Gwastadcoed John Hamer, Talcenllidiarth Lewis Rowlands, Bwlchyrenwyn David Lloyd, Bryn- coch David Davies, Gwerngigfran Evan Kinsey Evans, Upper Caerau Richard Chapman, Esgir Edward Jones, Neuaddlwyd; Price Woosencraft, Cobblers Gate Stephen Evans, Clas Richard Griff- iths, Ffinnant S. P. Davies, ironmonger, Llanidloes R. M. Davies, Llanidloes Charles Benbow, Moss Villa James Toole, Trewythen Arms Hotel William George, solicitor, Llanidloes. The table also contained a dainty marble clock and a rose bowl from the tenants to Miss Eda Farmer, eldest child of the late landlord. There also appeared another clock and a shaving bowl for the second son, Mr Herbert Farmer. By one of life's little ironies he is but twenty minutes younger than his twin-brother, who the previous Saturday, on their 21st birthday, succeeded to 22000 and the Farmer estate, property that is scattered over the parishes at Llanidloes, Llandinam, and Trefeglwys, an estate which contains the' source of the Severn, and has a yearly rent roll of between el,200 and £ 1,300. At the outset Monsignor Grosch took the chair. On his right were Mr Charles Farmer, Miss Farmer, and Mr Herbert Farmer, with Mrs Edward Davies, Llanidloes, the estate agent's wife (Mr Charles Farmer, who, with his brother, was educated at various public schools in London, and at Ampleforth under the Benedictines, is now receiving a training in estate management on Sir William Throgmorton's estate at Coughton). To the President's right there sat Mr Edmunds (manager of the Llanidloes branch of the North and South Wales Bank), Mr Edward Davies, Prospect House, and the Rev James Jones, vicar of Llandinam, who returned thanks for the dinner upon which the President had invoked grace. Having proposed -the Loyal Toast, Monsignor Grosch quitted the chair in favour of Mr Gwilym Edmunds, who announced letters of regret for in- ability to attend from Mr J. R. Morris, Dol-llys, and Colonel and Captain Bask ervill e-victi m s of influenza —and Mr N. Bennett Owen, who had crushed his foot against a gate the previous day. Mr Bennett Owen's name was down on the toast list opposite The health of Mr Charles Farmer," but now the Vicar of Llandinam coupled this senti- ment with that of the health of The Farmer family. He prophesied a bright future for the landlord and the tenantry, because when he asked Mr Charles Farmer if he was going to reside at Llwynderw, the old family residence, the answer was that he believed in young men having something to do he wanted to do something in the world. The toast was respected to the accompaniment of For he's a jolly good fellow," and then a trio of tenants stepped forward to present the address and album, the dressing case, and clock to, the young Squire. The old tenant, Mr J. Evans, Clap, could not on account of illness be present, so his place was taken by his nephew, Mr E. D. Evans. He explained that the tenantry had been especially touched by the kind way they had been treated at the last rent-day by Mr Farmer and the trustees, and they decided to do something substantial to commemorate their landlord's coming-of-age. There was something very significant in the travelling bag Mr Farmer had chosen, as they expected him to come down from London there very often to see how the tenants fared (laughter and applause). Mr John Hamer, Talcen, continued the good wishes, remarking that a good landlord would make good tenants, and on the other hand good tenants would help to make a good landlord. He remembered when there was no encouragement to be good tenants if a farmer farmed well he would have notice to quit or raise the rent. The result was that many of the best tenents leTt, and took iarms on somebody else's estate. But there had been a change. Not many when they are 21 years old are lucky men," observed Mr Richard Jones, Crosslyn. But here to-day we have a man coming of age, and not only that, but he is coming to hold a for- tune, and a very valuable one. He has become a landlord of a large estate, and we as tenants and well-wishers have made up our minds to mark that time by showing how our feeling is towards him." Miss Evans, Upper Caerau, next presented an egg cruet and rose bowl to Miss Farmer, and Mr Wai. George, solicitor, Llanidloes, in another happy speech, tendered the marble timepiece and shaving bowl to Mr Herbert Farmer. I have a three-fold duty to perform," said Mr Charles Farmer, responding in a brief speech. First of all, I offer my very sincere thanks to those who inaugurated this movement of the pres- entation.' I have little doubt that this movement involved a large amount of trouble, and it is in recognition of this I wish to extend my very sin- cere thanks. My second duty takes the form of thanking the subscribers that have subscribed for their generosity in presenting me with this large number of souvenirs in honours of my 21st birth- day. My third duty is to thank everyone of you for being present here this afternoon to witness the completion of the orgalllSerS work. In ex- pressing my thanks, I wish to add my sincere hopes that nothing "will occur to hinder the growth of the excellent feelings that has existed between you and the Farmer family and their representatives for many years" (hear, hear, and applause). Mr Herbert Farmer next spoke: I rise not to give a long speech, but to give you sincerest thanks on behalf of myself and my sister for the kind presentations you have made to us to-day (applause). Mr E. D. Evans proposed the health of "the Trustees," after which the young Squire" on be- half of my brother and sisters and mYself" thanked Monsignor Grosch for his fatherly love and pro- tectIon as their guardian. Evidently it was a 'FaH +r,"V.„ + « J-.LU.I. "J.1li t.I.J.UUlJCío Monsignor Grosch responded in t a speech where grave was artistically mingled with gay. He said that Charles Farmer had now a more valuable property than when he and his co-trustee received it. A great deal of money had been spent on the estate during their stewardship, and therein the tenants had always been ready to pay their share. It was a strange thing," commented the reverend speaker, that a Roman Catholic priest, who is almost as rare here as a porcupine,— (laughter)-slioul.d have come down, and should have received from those who were very different from him in religion so hearty and so earnest a welcome as I did receive" (hear, hear, and loud applause). Referring to his guardianship, Monsignor Grosch observed I don't know what the experience of other guardians may be, but I will say this that if I was called upon to discharge a similar duty again, if I had an assurance that I should receive one-twentieth part of the reverence and the love and the gratitude that I have received from this one, I would willingly undertake it again (hear, hear). I may say-let it be to their honour, if you will-it is to me a great satisfaction that dur- ing these seven years they moved neither hand nor foot without the permission of their guardian. And —not to strike too solemn a note—the very climax of my satisfaction arrived on the morning of their birthday last Saturday, when they journeyed from their home at seven o'clock in the morning to make the first act of their 21st birthday an act of re- ligious service and thanksgiving to God (applause). They came down to discharge their religious duties and to assist at that, which is for them the most solemn act in their lives, to Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, and to receive their Holy Communion. I say, if young men begin life in this way, there is a promise of them that they are going to justify their youth, and that they are going to be men, who will place the honour of their God in the first place, and, if they do so, it will teach them their duty to those who depend upon them and to those with whom they are connected, and the whole .ser- vice of religious life is the discharge of one's duty to God and one's duty to one's neighbour. If Charles Farmer does this, he will play the part of a good and a great man. The great man does not depend upon the hav- ing to do great things. A great life is DO made up of extraordinary doings, but of doing small things well" (hear, hear). He will deal with you, I believe, as a man, as a religious and conscientious man ought to deal with his fellow-men he will deal with you in justice and in generosity. And those two qualities combined in a man who has got the responsibility of owning land, should bring him to a very suc- cessful issue. I still have the responsibility of three of the family, who are still my wards. These three have gone away, left me, a poor old chap with only three, where I had six—(Miss Farmer Seven!)— you see my woes are more than I thought they were (laughter). But whereas I have joy in my children, I shall now have added to that joy the support and consolation of my children, who have grown up to be men and women, and even to a Catholic priest, who is separated from the ordinary joys of domesticity for the greater honour and glory of God and for his own work, they appeal very strongly. They appeal even to the heart of a Roman Catholic priest; they appeal very strongly to me." If," said Mr S. P. Davies, Llanidloes, in propos- ing the health of the tenantry, landlord and tenant come together, and reciprocate the feelings that we have seen here manifest, if these conditions con- tinue to prevail, we shall hear less of this cry against landlordism and for the nationalization of the land than we do at present." We meet here twice a year," said Mr John Davies, Pencastle, in responding, but not as we are to-day (laughter). We meet then to pay our debt. We do try hard to live, and, if we fail, there is nothing to be done. A lot of grumblers farmers are called. We ought to grumble (laughter). We have nearly everything knocking at us farmers. Mr Richard Jones, Croslyn, replied by making the one Welsh speech of the afternoon. It has been a pretty hard time on us as tenant farmers," he said. "I don't know of any class of people that appreciates a little sympathy more than we do. It is not easy to collect money from a Welshman (laughter). But we had no trouble in collecting for the presentations. When asked how much he would like to give, one tenant, mindful of the good treatment they had recently received, replied, Fe Iisciwn fod yn anrhydeddus y tro yma beth b¡,nag' (' I should like to be honourable this time what- ever ')." The Chairman proposed the health of Monsignor Grosch," which was received with great acclama- tion, the Vicar of Llandinam leading the Hip-hip hurrah! and the president responded with another happy speech. Mr George Hercomb proposed the toast of the Committee," to which Mr Edward Davies replied in a chatty address. Monsignor Grosch had re- marked that he wondered how he would get on with the tenantry. Mr Davies confessed that a good number of the tenants, on hearing that a Roman Catholic priest had been appointed co- trustee, began to wonder how they would get on with him (loud laughter). Mr Davies related an experience he had when a boy on a visit to Aber- ystwyth. With a friend he went to the little Roman Catholic chapel there, saying he should like to see a Roman Catholic priest very much. They went to the service, which appeared alright. But he was looking for the priest, and asked his friend, Where's the priest ?" Well, there he is." was the reply. "Where?" "There he is!" "Why!" exclaimed Mr Davies, "that's a man!" (loud laughter). The toast list was ended by the President pro- posing the health of the Chairman," and express- ing appreciation of the bank manager's business relations with the Farmer estate. Mr Edmunds duly responded, and the- assembly of tenants and well-wishers broke up in excellent spirits after singing God save the King." Not only had they had an excellent dinner, but just before five o'clock they were also served with tea.

COUNTY MEDICAL OFFICER'S ANNUAL REPORT. INTERESTING FACTS AND IMPORTANT RECOMMENDATIONS. Dr C. E. Humphreys, Llanfair, the medical officer for the county, presented his annual report to the County Council on Monday, for 1908. Subjoined is a summary of its contents. BIRTHS. The number of births recorded in the county in 1908 was 1,227, an increase of 24 on the previous year. This gives a birth rate of 21.9, as compared,witli 21.5 in 1907, 22.7 in 1906, and an average of 23.7 for the previous five years. The birth rate in England and Wales in 1908 was 26.5. The birth rate in this county is thus shown to be diminishing, as it is, .indeed, in the country gener- ally. This decline is no doubt doubt due to some extent to the migration of young people of a mar- riageable age to the larger towns, and possibly to the postponement of marriage to a later vear in life than formerly. There is also at the present day an increasing tendency amongst certain classes of women to shirk the duties of motherhood. The number of illegitimate births in the county in 1908 was 68 in the previous year there were 92. DEATHS. The exact number of deaths in the county during the year—after adding deaths of residents who died in institutions outside the county, and deducting non-residents who died in the county—was 789. This is 39 less than the previous year. This gives a crude death rate of 14.1 per 10C0 of the population. The rate for England and Wales for the same year was 14.7. Due consideration, however, should be given in calculating the death rate, to the age and sex distri- bution of the population. For instance, in Mont- gomeryshire the proportion of old people is greater than the average for England and Wales, and the number of deaths of persons of 65 and upwards amounts to nearly half the total. But there is, on the other hand, a smaller proportion of young persons under 35 when mortality is lowest. Again, the num- ber of men—amongst whom the death rate is higher —is in excess of women. The following figures will show how the age distri- bution affects the death rate :—Death rate of chil- dren under 5 years of age-53 per 1,00 living at that age period death rate of persons from 5 to 25 years of age-3.4 per 1,000 living at that age period death rate of persons from 25 to 45 years of age-8 per 1,000 living at that age period death rate of persons from 65 to 75 years of$ge— 67 per 1,000 living at that age period. In order to make the death rate of any area com- parable with that of England and Wales, it is neces- sary to apply some method of correction to neutralise this disparity of age distribution, he factor of correction as worked out by the Registrar-General and applied to this county would fleduce the crude death rate of 14.1 to 11.2 per 1.000 population. It is obvious therefore if this factor of correction be applied to the several districts in the county, those which show a high death rate would appear in a more favourable light. It should be pointed out Oiat while not much importance need be attached to temporary fluctuations of the death rate in small areas, a high rate of mortality recurring for several years should engage the serious attention of the Sanitary Authority concerned. INFANTILE MORTALITY. The total number of children dying before attain- ing the age of one year in the whole county was 92 which represents an infantile death rate of 74.9 per 1,000 births, as compared with a rate of 95.5 in 1907 and 96.9 in 1906. For the previous five years the county average was 100 per 1,000 births. There is thus a gradual decline in the rate of mortality in this class of lives in the county as a whole, and it compares favourably with the rest of England and Wales, as will be seen from the following figures England and Wales in 1908, 121.0 deaths per 1,000 births 76 great towns in 1908, 128.0 deaths per 1,000 births 142 smaller towns in 1908, 124.0 deaths per 1,000 births rural England and Wales (less the 218 towns) in 1908, 110.0 deaths per 1,000 county of Montgomery in 1908, 74.9 deaths per 1,000 births. In the urban districts the infantile death rate was 82.7'; in the rural districts the in- fantile death rate was 70.0. With the exception of Llanidloes and Llanfyllin, both of which continue to show a high rate of infantile mortality, the urban as well as the rural districts are very satis- factory in this respect. It may be safely stated that improper feeding and bad management, associated with unhealthy surroundings, are the causes of one-half of the infantile deaths. For instance, out of 12 deaths in Llanidloes borough, nine died of convulsions, wast- ing disease, and prematurity. The 'mortality amongst bottle-fed children is considerably higher than that of breast-fed, especially when brought up in small insanitary cottages, where the milk is carelessly stored. Climatic conditions, of course, largely affect the infantile death rate-a cool wet summer being more favourable. In hot, dry seasons the milk is more likely to be contaminated. When breast feed- ing is not possible, the available milk 1 supply— from the cow to the babe-should be clean and pure, and kept free from contamination by flies and dust in the house. Debility and poverty of the mother are potent ants-natal influences in bringing about premature and weakly offspring. One-half of the deaths amongst infants are the result of gastro intestinal diseases and convulsions—conditions intimately as- sociated with improper feeding. This points to the vital importance of educating the mothers in the right principles of child-rearing, and of including it as a subject for the older girls in the elementary schools. The excellent work done by some of the district medical officers in circulating handbills of instruc- tions to mothers is undoubtedly bearing fruit, and 1 look forward with hope to the work oi the re- cently instituted County Nursing Association, through its district nurses and local committees, as a powerful agency in preventing this terrible wastage of child life in our county. The question of adopting the Notification of Births Act has been deferred until the nurses have been located in their districts, when they will give practical advice to mothers in the proper feeding and management of their children. NOTIFIABLE INFECTIOUS DISEASES. Under this head the report furnishes a table show- ing the incidence and number of cases of infec- tious or zmmotic diseases which were notified to the district medical officers of health in 1908, in accordance with the requirements of the Notifica- tion of Infectious Disbases Act. This table is remarkable as showing the freedom of the county from puerperal fever, not a single case having been notified during the year. Al- though there are five small isolation hospitals in the county, all the cases of infectious diseases were treated in the patients' own homes. Of the 99 cases there were only three deaths. NON-NOTIFIABLE CASES OF INFECTIOUS DISEASE. Epidemics of whooping cough, mumps, and in- fluenza were prevalent in several parts of the county during the year, necessitating the closing of a number of schools. There were nine deaths from whooping cough and 18 from influenza. Measles accounted for six deaths in the Newtown district. I BACTERIOLOGICAL EXAMINATIONS, The arrangements made with Professor Pelapine,

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The Political Crisis over for the Present. A JULY ELECTION. Little interest was taken in question time in the House of Commons on Monday, in view of Mr Asquith's anticipated statement when asking for private members' time to be allotted to the Gov- ernment. The right hon. gentleman explained the Votes of Supply which must be got through before the end of the month, and said after Easter, jm- mediately on reassembling, resolutions would be presented excluding the Lords from the domain of finance and limiting their veto to a single Parlia- ment. In reply to Mr Balfour, he said the Budget would come after these resolutions. Mr Balfour said he would not oppose the motion before the I House, but he twitted the Government on their difficulties with the minor parties. lie alleged that several proposals of the Government were not good statesmanship. THE IRISH WANT TO KNOW. THE IRISH WANT TO KNOW. Mr J. Redmond, for the Nationalists, wanted to know what would happen when the resolutions were sent to the Lords, as Mr Asquith now said they would be. Was it intended that the Throne should, be approached for guarantees ? If that were done. the Irish members would support the Government but unless they had something further on that point, and the suspension of the Budget until the Veto was dealt with, they could not withdraw their opposition. THE CHANCELLOR'S ASSURANCE. Mr Lloyd George said some members of the Gov- ernment had given very definite guarantees, and they were quite ready to stand or fall by them, bUt they could not ask for guarantees with refer- ence to proposals which had not received the sanc- tion of the House of Commons. He could assure the House if the House of Lords rejected these resolutions, the Government did not propose to plough the sands. "Unless," he went on to say, we find ourselves in a position to ensure that our proposals will be passed into law, we shall not continue to hold office." This declaration was re- ceived with much cheering from the Liberal benches. He told the House, in grave and serious tones, that on this question there was no hesitation and no shirking. They would absolutely stake their existence upon the advice which they would give to the Sovereign if it became necessary to do go. This declaration-the most emphatic that had yet come from the Treasury Bench on the subject of I guarantees—produced a marked effect on the House, and did much to clarify the political at- mosphere. With the statement of the Chancellor, the interest in the debate came to an end, and shortly after the motion was agreed to without a- division. THE CRISIS OVER. For the moment, therefore, the crisis may be regarded as over but it has not been permanently got rid of. It will undoubtedly arise again whell the Government proceed with the resolutions re- garding the House of Lords. From the outline which the Prime Minister gave of the method in which the Government intend to deal with the Veto, it may safely be assumed that the resolu- tions will receive the sanction of the majority of the House of Commons. To carry them through the Commons will occupy at least ten or days of Parliamentary time, and they will not probably reach the House of Lords till the month of May. It is not difficult to predict what will be their fate there. The Honse of Lords will de- cline to consider them on the ground that they am to be followed by a Reform Bill next year, and that the Lords ought to have before them the whole policy of the Government before dealing with this question. The course adopted by Ministers gives a certain tactical advantage, to the Peers. It looks, on the face of it, reasonable to say that the House of Lords ought not to be asked to consider one half of the Ministerial policy until they are put into possession of the other. The Lords, therefore, though they may discuss the resolutions, will pro- bably decline to pronounce any judgment upon them, and will simply hang them up till next session. THE CRUCIAL MOMENT. Then will come the crucial and critical situation. We now know, from Mr Asquith and Mr Lloyd George, that the Government will tender certain advice to the King. That advice may either be that it is necessary to create a large number of "peers, or that the existing Parliament should be dissolved. There cannot be much doubt that the Government will ask the authority of the Crown to create a sufficient number of peers of Parlia- ment to carry the Veto Bill. That the King will agree to such an exercise of the Royal prerogative no one beliefs. It would admittedly be an act of revolution, though in the legal sense quite con- stitutional. If the Sovereign refuses, the Govern- ment will then resign, and Mr Balfour will be aske<f to form a Government. In all probability, he will consent to do so, but only with a view to an im- mediate dissolution. The general result, therefore, of the policy announced by the Government in both Houses is that, at the latest, we shall have another election in June or July next.

THE VILLAGE HANDICAP. £ s. d. a Sanitary Obstacle. Mr Richard Jones' Hint to Welsh M P 's If the migration of the people from the country into the towns is to be stopped it is necessary to make our country villages more healthy as well as to beautify them." Thus Mr Richard Jones spoke at the Montgomery County Council last Monday, when its Sanitary Com- mittee called attention to the reportSf its Medical Officer respecting the insufficient and defective water supplies at Pennal, Aberhosan, Caersws, Llanfair, Meifod, Montgomery, and Berriew. "ow," continued Mr Jones, there is a practical difficulty to make our country villages more sanitary, and also to provide them with a better supply of water—because of the cost of the schemes. Take, for instance, the case of Caersws. Tonder is a 'oig and a growing village. There is no system of sanita- tion there, and., although there is no scarcity of water, still it is not wholesome-that is the report of the Local Government Board Inspector, who has been down to the village, and has been recommending to the District Council two schemes, one for the sanita- tion of the village and the ether for the provision of a water supply. They WILL COST OVER £ 5,000. Well, it is simply a prohibitive sum. If you form an inner area, and raise the rate from the inhabitants, they can never pay for it. On the other hand, it is unjust to levy a rate over the whole parish to make the farmer pay—(hear, bear),rben they don't benefit anything at all by it. Unless financial aid is forthcoming from some source like the Congested Districts Board in Ireland to improve the sanitation and a water supply of our » villages, I am quite certain that nothing will be done. And I think that a communication ought to be addressed to Mr John Burns, the President of the Local Government Board, that he cannot employ his time more usefully than in trying to think of some scheme in improving the condition of our villages, or, indeed, if there are any of the Welsh Members that feel destitute of any particular ambition in life, they could very well take up this question, and make themselves useful (smiles). Alderman J. Pryce Jones seconded the motion. calling Mr Burns' attention to the necessity of pro- viding practical means for improving the water supply and sanitary condition of the country villages without the infliction of crushing rates." He said the difficulty had been felt for some years respecting- the small villages in Welshpool borough. Mr Richard Lloyd said if the local authority did not provide a water supply the County Council should point out the necessity of proceeding in that direction without delay. The village of Caersws contained a- very large school with close on 200 children attending. Though the village was growing and thriving, yet he did not kuow whether he might not go so far as to say the water supply in that part of the county was not only unsatisfactory, but prejudicial, and possibly dangerous to the health of the children and the people drinking that water. "We have been PAYING TOO LITTLE ATTENTION as a County Council to public health," continued Mr Lloyd, referring to the need for carefully considering Dr C. E. Humphreys' quarterly and annual reports. But since the appointment of our medical officer a very decided improvement has taken place with regard to the death rate, and especially to infantile mortality." Answering Mr Lloyd, the Deputy-Clerk (Mr G. R. D. Harrison) said that if the District Councils did not do their duties the County Council could not call upon them to do so. But he was not quite sure the County Council could do the work themselves, unless the Parish Council called upon them, because the cost would fall on the parish, and, if they did not want a water supply, they could not be compelled to have it— Alderman Pryce Jones That's the difficulty. Mr Forrester Addie did not object to the resolution "because," he remarked. "I take it any of us will not object to go to the present Government, or any Government, to get the money for any improvement suggested for the county." The discussion accen- tuated tbe point that it was the duty of the local authorities to carry out the water supplies, including the supply for a school, rather than that the whole o £ the county should be put to the cost. Montgomery, added Mr Addie, bad a very good water supply, and was now making arrangements to increase it. "And," added the speaker. I may sav Lord Powis has given that water supply to the town of Mont- gomery." Mr Arthur Humphreys-Owen also supported the motion, but be emphasised the distinction between LOCAL AUTHORITIES AND THE ACTUAL OWNERS OF PROPERTY. He did not think enough was made of the pressure that could be put upon the latter to improve their property. In a great many cases the duty would probably fall upon the actual owners rather than upon the local authority. Mr Percival Hurlbutt replied that he thought it was sufficiently well-known that a local authority could only charge a property owner for a very trifling » amount compared to the amount those things gener- ally came to. So they could put as much pressure as ever they liked, but they must not think they were going to get money out of him, because they could not under the Act. Mr E. S. Perrott noticed there were only a few places mentioned in the report, but he thought all the county ought to be mentioned, because a great many houses got their water supply from surface wells, which were very often on the side of public. roads, or in places when,■after a little rain, every bit of dirt drained into them, and spoilt the water. The water probably was first-rate, if some trouble was taken t3 keep out the extra water alter rain. He thought that the local authorities ought to see that thie was done. Mr Richard Jones' resolution was adopted unani- I mously.

I Crashing down the mountain slopes, an avalancft^ descended on the iitle mining town of Mace iw Idaho, and swept it out of existence.

Montgomeryshire Old-Age Pensions, The Newtown Pensions Sub-Committee met at the Police Court, Newtown, on Tuesday, when Mr Richard Jones presided, and there were also present Messrs J. Hamer Jones, D. Hamer, and David Jones, with Mr J. E. Tomley, clerk, and Messrs W. Taylor, L. Jones Williams, and S. R. Adcock, pension officers. Sixteen claims were dealt with. Six were allowed 5s weekly, one 4s, and three 3s weekly; one was increased from 4s to 5s; three claims were disallowed on account of means exceeding £ 31 10s per year, and two claims were deferred. Before the business commenced the Chairman moved, and Mr David Hamer seconded, a vote of sympathy with the bereaved widow and family of the late Captain Mytton, who was chairman of the County Pensions Authority and took an active part in the administration of the Act. The motion was carried in silence.

of Manchester University, for the bacteriological examination of secretions in doubtful cases. of phthisis, diphtheria, etc., is largely made use of by the medical men of the county. It is hoped that this arrangement will be taken advantage of in all cases of children who have been excluded from scnool 011 account of diphtheria, by taking swabs of the throat for examination, in order to ascertain if they are free from infection before they return to school. TUBERCULOSIS. There were 91 deaths from tuberculosis during the year—70 from puimonarjll phthisis, or con- sumption of the lungs," and 21 from other forms of tdbereulous disease. This gives a death rate of OL 1.6 per 1,000 population, or lis per cent, of the total number of deaths in this county from all di- seases. This is 1: per cent. higher than England and Wales. The number of deaths from tuber- culosis in the county in 1907 was 79--60 from phthisis and 19 from other forms of tuberculous di- sease-a death rate of 1.4. It is well to know that consumption is not hereditary, and, if treated early, it is curable. It is the predisposition to the disease that is in- herited; a transmission from parent to child of tissues having low powers of vitality and weakened resistance. It is when such individuals are placed in unhealthy, damp, sunless, and crowded dwellings, breathing and re-breathing vitiated air, that their bodies become a prey to the ravages of the tubercle bacillus. Intemperance is a potent cause of consumption. bacillus. Intemperance is a potent cause of consumption. Not only is the constitution enfeebled from over- indulgence in alcohol the children of intemperate parents often suffer from want of proper food and clothing, and are therefore less able to withstand the attacks of the disease. The excessive use of tea, and the consumption of white bread, which have almost superseded porridge and milk among the poorer classes, tend to lower the bodily resist- aace of the rising generation. It is to be hoped that the regulations which came into force in January, 1909, will be so ex- tended as to include all classes of consumptives. A modified form of notification would enable the sanitary authority to locate the disease, to take early measures directed towards cutting off the supply of the bacillus by disinfection, etc., to im- prove the surroundings of the patient in his home. and to instruct him how to minimize the danger of conveying infection to others. The Llanfyllin Rural Sanitary Authority have recently issued handbills drawn up by their Medical Officer of Health calling the attention of the public to the best means of combating the disease and preventing the spread of infection from person to I person. It would be well if such notices were scat- tered broadcast over the county for if consump- tion is to be fought and stamped out of the coun- try as completely as typhus and small-pox, a cam- paign of unceasing activity must be carried on through the press, and indeed the pulpit, by lec- tures and handbills, and by the individual efforts of every member of the community. There is no reason why even in a small county like curs—where the average deaths from consump- tion is from 70 to 89 per annum—a small inexpen- sive sanitorium could not be erected where early cases might, enter with every hope of a cure. Other countries recognise it as a public duty to place within the reach of the poor those advantages which are necessary to secure the return to health which are at the command of the richer classes of the community. Why not ours ? CANCER. There occurred 58 deaths from cancer in the county during the year, giving a death rate of 1.0 per 1,000 population, of 7.3 per cent. of the deaths from all causes. This is a higher percentage than that of England and Wales for the same year, which was 6.3. When this disease has established itself, there is no known treatment except removal but there are other pre-cancerous conditions in this terrible disease which can be recognised, and the public should be made acquainted with the vital importance of seeking medical advice at the earliest possible moment. WATER SUPPLIES. In the greater portion of the rural area of the county the supply of drinking water is derived from shallow pump weUs and surface dip wells—many of these near the public highway, and consequently liable to pollution. These wells are often close to cottages within a few yards of the refuse heap, or adjoining the well-manured garden. These wells are always a source of potential, if not actual, dan- ger to the health of the people. The water may are always a source of potential, if not actual, dan- ger to the health of the people. The water may for a long time be used without, ill-effects, but there is always present the risk of contamination with the specific germs of typhoid and other di- seases. A case in point occurred in the Tregynon sub-district, where an outbreak of typhoid was traced to water obtainable from a surface well. All surface wells should be fenced off, and the sur- I roundings protected from the trampling of cattle. I Next in importance to a pure water is an abundant I supply of it, within a reasonable distance. There is a tendency to economise the water, and less is used than is necessary for personal requirements. Pure water is as essential to the well-being of the smallest hamlet as it is to the largest centre of population, and one of the most important duties of sanitary authorities is to see that all the in- habitants of their district have a sufficient and wholesome supply within a reasonable distance. I commend to the notice of the various sanitary authorities concerned the above remarks, especialiy on the water supply of Pennal, Aberhosan, Caersws, Llanfair, Meifod, Montgomery, and Berriew. SCAVENAGE. Scavenage is thoroughly carried out in the urban districts. The Llanfyllin District Council has re- cently made arrangements for the weekly removal of house refuse and nighi soil at Llanfair, where the pail system has been adopted. There are sev- eral large villages in the county where a public scavenger could be usefully employed as, next in importance to a pure water supply and efficient drainage, is the systematic removal of refuse and garbage from the immediate vicinity of houses. If refuse and manure heaps are allowed to accumulate I they pollute the air and attract flies, which act as carriers of microbes to houses to infect food. and. especially milk. Undoubtedly the best method of dealing with refuse is to cremate it in specially constructed furnaces. Dr Crump, of Welshpool, and Dr Wilson, of Newtown, both strongly recommend destructors to their Councils. DAIRIES, COWSHEDS. AXD MILKSHOPS or, r- IT, The Dairies, Cowsheds, and Milksliops Order of 1885 requires that every cowkeeper, dairyman, and purveyor of milk must be registered before he can occupy premises for the purpose of selling milk, and he must make provision for the lighting, ventila- tion, cleansing, and drainage of the premises to the satisfaction of the sanitary authority. Under this Order sanitary authorities have the power of making regulations for the better carrying out of the pro- visions of the Order and for inspecting the cattle. Without these regulations it is not possible to en- sure clean premises, clean cattle, and consequently a clean milk supply. In those districts in which regulations are in force, it will be noticed in the medical officers' re- ports that there is considerable improvement effected in the ventilation, drainage, and cleanliness of the cows and sheds.