The Llanelly Mercury and South Wales Advertiser

NOTICE. THE LLANELLY SCHOOL BOARD hereby give -L Notice that all Accounts must be presented before the expiration of three months after the goods, kc., have been supplied. Any Accounts not presented within that period will not be paid. IFOR W. WATKINS, Llanelly, Clerk. 14th April, 1897.

ANOTHER PUBLIC LOSS. I THE public life of Llanelly has been called upon with sad frequency during the present year to pass through the valley of the shadow of death. Within four months, the town has lost by death the services of three able, gifted, and ex- perienced public men. This week, the com- munity is the poorer by the decease of Mr. B-ENKY JOHN HOWELL, chairman of the Llanelly School Board. Although in weak health for Some years, he continued, up to the time of his death, to be a useful and valued member of the School Board. For many years, he was a member of the old Local Board, and presided over its deliberations for more than one term. On the old local authority, as on the School | Board, his membership was a distinct and definite gain to the efficient administration of affairs. He had a fine grip of public matters an urbane manner, and great debating capacity, combined with an inflexibility of character that won for him the esteem aud admiration Of the circles in which he moved. A cultured Bian himself, versatile, and accomplished in not a few of the arts, it was not inappropriate that a large portion of his time and not the least of his talents, should have been demoted to the administration and advancement of education in the parish of Llanelly. He brought to the discharge of this onerous task, an ability and a resource which only those intimately associated with him in this great task can measure. Above all things, the late Mr. H. J. HOWELL was thorough. Like the late Mr. JENNINGS and the late Dr. JONES, his industry was boundless Whatever he found worth doing, he believed in doing well—with patient courage and un- faltering resolution. His death will be a severe loss to the town: his place will not be easily filled. His memory, however, will remain to encourage and inspire those succeeding to the positions he worthily held, and to be cherished by the town generally as that of a man who strove with rare patience and a fine courage to leave the world better than he found it.

THE NEW SCHOOL BOAR]) CLERK. OF all the appointments recently made by Public bodies in Llanelly—appointments which It was necessary to make in consequence of the lamented death of Mr. JENNINGS—none is more generally popular than that sanctioned by the School Board on Tuesday last at the ordinary MONTHLY meeting when Mr. IFOR W. WATKINS ^asunanimously elected clerk to the authority- WATKINS had invincible claims to the rever- .o of the office. For sixteen years, he served "ncter the late Mr. JENNINGS, his time being chiefly occupied with work relating to the administration of education in the Llanelly Parish. During that long period of service, he necessarily acquired a full and varied knowledge of the education acts in their general and local aPplication, together with an absolute ex- Perience of the customary routine of figures and regulations affecting the administration of OUr School Board district, which Mr. JENNINGS served with such distinguished success for over twenty years. In returning thanks for the confidence reposed in him, Mr. WATICINS appro- priately referred to the great example of the late Mr. JENNINGS and the difficulties which Would inevitably beset him in striving to follow along the lines of his gifted predecessor. No O?e, however, could undertake the duties asso. elated with the office with brighter prospects of success, after the pattern of the late Mr, ENDINGS, than Mr. WATKINS, who was associ- ated with the late clerk for many years in the work of the Board. We congratulate Mr. WrATKINS on his unanimous appointment, and we are con- fident that in the discharge of his duties, he will receive the moral and material support both of the members of the Board and the public generality.

I THE COUNCIL'S ACCOUNTS. I OUR readers will, doubtless, be interested in the perusal of the report, furnished in another col. umn of this issue, of the proceedings^ a meet- ing of the Llanelly Borough Council on Monday relating to the appointment of an accountant to prepare the accounts for the government auditor. It will be seen from the discussion that there was a division of opinion on the Coun- cil,one section advocating the appointment of a local man, Mr. WILLIAM DAVID being mentioned, and the other, the engagement of Mr. CAWKER, of Swansea. Although nothing specifically was said as to the reasons why an accountant was necessary for the work, we presume the necessity arises out of the pressure consequent upon the lamented death of Mr. JENNINGS- It would have been far better if this explanation had been specifically made, as a misapprehension may be nourished in the public Blind, as the result of its omission, that despite the appointment of a clerk, another official is to be periodically employed. Admitting the need of the engagement of an accountant at this juncture, we are at a loss to discover sufficient reason for the engage- ment of a man outside the town. We do not question the bona fides of the gentlemen who carried the appointment of Mr. CAWKER, of Swansea, but we fail to appreciate the argu- ments in favour of the policy adopted. One of these was particularly weak. It was contended that as the Finance Committee had first of all authorised the Clerk to ascertain the terms of Mr. CAWKER, the policy foreshadowed in that instruction should be pursued, despite the fact that at a later meeting of the same committee, it was recommended to advertise locally for a man. We respectfully submit that this is aa argument in name only. There was little, if amy, u grit" in the alternative or supplementary reason that there are special difficulties which called for the appointment of Mr. CAWKER. The weakness of the alternative reason is that the special difficulties were not named.

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE. PALM SUNDAY.—The usual floral decoration of the various cemeteries was generally practiced at Llanelly last Sunday, If you want a real good Wedding Ring, the best place is at H. KALTENBACH'S, Vaughau Street, and Arcade, where, in addition, you will get a genuine present.—ADVT. SHORTHAND.—Mr. David J. Charles, Llanerch, has been successful in obtaining Pitman's certificate for proficiency in shorthand. He was tutored by Mr. H. J. Cue, Amos-terrace, Llanelly. TABERNACLE CHAPPL.-The annual tea will be held at the above chapel on Good Friday, together with a sale of work, which promises to be most interesting. There will be musical selections at intervals. THIRD LLANELLY 870TH STARE-BOWKETT BUILDING SOCIETY.—In consequence of the holidays, next week's meeting will be omitted. Members will please pay the two weeks' contributions on April 26th.—ADVT. VIEWS OF AMERICA.—On Friday evening last at Park Street School, a magic lantern exhibition of slides of America, took place under the auspices of the White Star Line. Mr.gSnead manipulated the lantern, and Mr. J. L. Bowen explained the views. MEDICAL SUCCESS.—Among the list of successful candidates in the third professional examination for the degrees of M.B. and Ch.B. of the University of Edinburgh, held recently, we observe the name of Mr. Henry Hugh Roberts. He obtained honour oertificates in medicine, surgery, pathology, and public health. VOLUNTEER INTELLIGENCE.—Orders for the week ending 21st April, 1897. Orderly officer, Lieut. H, M. G. Evans orderly sergeant. Qr.-Mstr. Sergt. Forster; orderly corporal, Lauce.Corpl. Arthur Company drill, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. Private T. G. Anfield is appointed lance- corporal. A meeting of the Assault-at-arms Committee will be held at the armoury on Tuesday next at 8 p.m.

A LOCAL PAPER AND THE REV. TREVOR JONES. TO THE EDITOR. Dlun Siit,-In the election notes last week of the South Wales Press the following statement appeared "In War.1 III. the Baptist ministers, the Rev. Trevor Jones and the Rev. Idwal Jones—worked well for their candidates. They were busy canvassing all day." The Rev. Idwal Jones is able to answer for himself, but as a matter of fact, he went to North Wales on the Saturday before the contest and returned on the following Tuesday. So far as I am concerned. there is not a vestige of truth in the statement in the Press. I did not canvass for a single vote, and oil the day of the poil I took no part in election matters. The object of the statement is obviously not to compliment the Baptist ministers, but to cast a slur upon them, by way of contrast with the Congregationalist ministers. I do not know whether the latter took any part in the contest, and f it is not for me to inquire. I feel, however, that the Press was grossly unfair in publishing a statement for which there was the slightest founda- tion. Not a word was said in Bethania in regard to the election.—Yours truly, W: TREVOR JONES.

INTERESTING MARRIAGE AT LLANGENNECH. The nuptials of Mr. William Clement, of Penlan Villa, aad Miss Lizzie Jones, Smith's Arms, were celebrated at Salem Baptist Chapel last Tuesday morning amidst evident signs of the vIllage goodwill. The officiating minister was the Rev. D. A. Joties. pastor of Bethesda Independent Church. The chapel was crowded with a congregation of eager onlookers long before the marriage ceremony was performed. The bride, given away by her uncle, Mr. William Rees, Panelawdd, was charmingly attired in a heliotrope costume, with a white chip hat trimmed with silk and white pinnies. The bridesmaid, Miss E. Rees, Gellygaled, cousin of the bride, was also attractively dressed in a grey costume with hat to match. The bridegroom was accompanied by his brother. Mr. Tom Clement, as best man. After the ceremony, Miss Thomas. Penlan. played the Wedding March, and a large party of guests retired to the bride's home to partake of an excellent breakfast. 1. I .f t" 11 "J ro. many in sue anernoon, tne u»ppy pair jeit for Llandrindod, where the honeymoon is to is to be spent. Appended is a list of the presents :— Bridegroom to Bride, gold bangle; Mr. Dd. Clement, silver tea service Mr. Tom Clement, dining room clock Miss Clement, silver cruet stand Mrs. Phillips, Ammanford, drawing room lamp; Mr. John, Bryn- araman, set of vases Mrs. Lewis, Pontardulais. water jug and bottle; Miss Davies, Black Horse, silver preserve dish Mr. and Mrs. Henry John, Llaugennecb, drawing room lamp; Mr. Tom John, silver fruit stand Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Hughes, photograph cabinet; Mr. and Mrs. R. Rolfe, pair of vases and piu cushion Mr. and Mrs. Marsden, Trellyfant, bread and cheese stand Mr. and Mrs. Thomas, Gwaelodymaes, silver teapot; Mrs. J. Davies, Llaugennech, letter rack and inkstand Mr. Tom Thomas, pair of bronze ornaments; Mr. Henry Thomas, Talywern, inkstand Miss Morgan, Abercarn, pair of etittaiii fasteners Mrs. Reynolds, Llangennech, flower vases Mrs. Bounell, Pontardulais, toilet set; Mr. D. Bevan, Hendre, drawing room clock; Mr and Mrs. Davies, Derwydd, silver cake knife; Mrs. T. Thomas, Brynllwyn, pair of glass dishes Mr. Rees Thomas, set of saucepans Mr. Dd. Thomas, teakettle Mr. Griff Thomas, fruit dish Mr. Rees, Aberavon, silver preserve spoons Miss Rees. Gellygaled, pair of ornaments Mr. and Mrs. Poyntz, vase; Miss Jones, Penlau Villa, sugar and cream jug; Mrs. Evans, large frame picture; Mrs. James, Bryn, pair of fruit dishes; Mrs. Henry, Pelican Inn, drawing room cabinet; Mrs. Clement, dinner service Mrs. Jones, household linen and tea service.

THE CRICKET CLUB. THE ANNUAL MEETING. The annual meeting of the Llanelly Cricket Club was held on Tuesday last at the Athenaeum buildings. There was a large attendance, the enthusiasm was keen. and the business was admirably conducted by the retiring captain, Mr. Fred N. Powell. solicitor, who has led the way for two seasons with rare skill and indefatigable energy. Among those present were Messrs. F. L. Rees, J. Howell. D. L. Joseph, J. G." Lewis, R. Frank Randell, R. U. Rees, H. Hammond, R. H. Linn, J. Gwyn Thomas, and Hugh Howell. The hon. sec. (Mr. R. Linn) submitted the statement of accounts for the year, a statement which shewed a deficit of j699 3s. 5d. The statement was adopted. The Chairman in referring to the deficit, drew attention to the forthcoming ball to be held under the auspices of the club, and urged each member to do all he could to guarantee the success, financial and artistic, of the event. Mr. C. W. Mansel Lewis was re-elected president of the club, and the list of vice-presidents was supplemented by the addition of the following t—Mr. R. Frank Randell, Mr. R. U. Rees, Mr. W. Buckley Roderick, and Mr. Fred N. Powell.-The question of captaincy was then proceeded with, Mr. Fred Rees moving the appointment of Mr. Llewellyn John. This was seconded by Mr. R. U. Rees, and cordially sup- ported by Mr. D. L. Joseph, and the Chairman. Put to the meeting, the resolution was unanimously carried. Mr. Llewellvn John thanked the meeting for the honour conferred upon him. When the question was first mentioned to him, he was extremely diffident of accepting the honour, but in view of the assurances he had received of the support of the old players, and especially of the retiring captain, he ha,d decided to accept the appointment. He assured them that he would do his best to follow in the footsteps of his predecessor. The Chairman congratulated Mr. John on his appointment. He (the speaker) intended to play as much cricket during the coming season as possible, and would give every support to the new captain. Some of his friends had circulated the rumour that he intended to run away from cricket for golf. He assured them that the rumour wasn't trne (laughter).—Mr. Hammond said he was not eligible for re-election as vice-captain, and he begged to move the appointment of Mr. S. B. Bowen. This was seconded and unanimously carried. —Mr. D. L. Joseph moved the re-election of Mr. R. H. Linn as honorary secretary. Mr. R. U. Rees seconded and it was unanimously carried. The Chairman cordially supported the re-election of Mr. Linn, who did a great deal of work, much of it unseen.—Mr. Percy Rees was unanimously re-elected honorary treasurer.—A strong committee was appointed, the following being elected to fill the vacancies. Mr. H. Hammond and Mr. Philip Rogers,—Mr. Charlie Davies was elected captain of the Tuesday team, on the initiative of the chairman, seconded by Mr. F. L. Rees.—The Chairman proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. C. W. Mansel Lewis for the continued use of Stradey Park. Without this continued generosity, cricket in Llanelly, indeed, would be impossible. Mr. J. Howell seconded the vote which was enthusiastically carried.—Mr. D. Luther Joseph proposed a vote of thanks to the retiring capt. and referred to the splendid services rendered to the club by Mr. F. N. Powell during the last two seasons. Mr. R. U. Rees seconded, and it was carried, In Msnondins. the chairman said that he did not intend to give up cricket as long as he could run between the I wickets. Votes of thanks were also passed to Mr. Hammond, Mr, R. H. Linn and Mr. Percy Rees. I THE FIXTURES OF THE FIRST ELEVEN f Where Date. Opponents. Played. May 1 .XVIII, Carmarthenshire League. Home 8 .Swansea. Away „ 15 .Newport. Away I ,,22 .Handovery College. Home 29 .Llandovery. Away June 5 Swansea Home Date. 12 .Open Date. m 19 .Handovery College. Away 26 Open Date. July 3 CardifE Home „ 10 .M.r. W. H. P. Jenkins' XL. Away „ 17 .Mandovery Home 24 .Open Date. „ 31 .Open Date Aug. 7 Swansea Away 14 Newport I. Home „ 21 Mr. W. H. P. Jenkins' XI Home I 28 .XVIII Carmarthenshire League Home 1 Sept. 4 Cardiff Away SECOND ELEVEN. wnere Date. Opponents. Played. May 1 Open Date. 8 .Maesteg Home 15 .Felinfoel (L) Home „ 22 Llaugeanech (L) Away 29 Garnant (L) Home June 6 .Swansea 2nd Away 7 Maesteg Away 12 Arnmonforti (L) Home 19 .Pontyberem (L) Home 26 .Burry Port (L) Away July 3 Open Date „ 10 .Pontyberem (L) Away 17 Felinfoel (L). Away „ 24 .Garnant (L) Away 31 .Burry Port (L) Home Aug. 7 Swansea 2nd. Home 14 .Open Date. „ 21 .Ammanford (L) Away 28. Open Date. Sept, 4 Llangennech (L) Home L. signifies matches in connection with the Carmar- thenshire League.  =======

ANALYST TO THE COUNCIL. At the next meeting of the Borough Council, Mr. Tom Hughes will move that Mr. Samuel Daw be appointed official analyst.

CARDIFF'S CLAIM TO THE UNIVERSITY OFFICES. The Cardiff Corporation will supply all applicants, gratis, with a Welsh copy of their memorial praying that their town be elected as the site for the above offices.

THE GOSPEL AMONG THE JEWS. The annual meeting of the local branch of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel among the Jews was held at Greenfield Chapel last night, when- a deputation from the Parent Society attended and delivered an address.

THE LLANELLY FLOWER SHOW SOCIETY We are now in a position to state that the show promoted by the above society will take place on Tues- day, August 17th, 1897. The schedule of prizes, &(" is in course of preparation, and will be issued in a few days.

ORDINATION OF A YOUNG i LLANELLYITE. On Monday of last week, Mr. Samuel Jones, former- ly of Bethel Chapel, Llanelly, was ordained to the pastorate of Caerwys Baptist Church, Flintshire. The young minister has had a distinguished career at Bangor Baptist College, and a bright future is, no doubt, before him. Principal Morris, M.A., delivered the charge to the minister, and Rev. Idwal Jones, Llanelly, to the church. The lev. Idwal Jones also presented the young minister with £ 10 worth of books on behalf of Bethel Chapel.

DEATH OF MR. JOHN HUM- PHREYS, NEW DOCK ROAD. We regret to chronicle the death of Mr. John Humphreys, New Dock-road, a resident who was highly esteemed by a wide circle of friends. The deceased gentleman had spent a most adventurous life, ranging from that on the ocean wave to gold prospecting in California and Australia. In politics, he was an un- flinching Radical, and to the poor and needy he was a true friend. The funeral took place yesterday, when I the mortal remains were laid to rest at Adulam Churchyard.

I SCHOOL BOARD CLERK I UNANIMOUS APPOINTMENT OF MR. IFOR W. WATKINS. On Tuesday last at the monthly meeting of the Llanelly School Board, Mr. John Hopkins presiding, Mr. Ifor W. Watkins was unanimously elected clerk to the board in succession to the late Mr. Jennings. The appointment was made on the recommendation of the committee which was to the effect that Mr. Watkins be appointed clerk, at a salary of £ 150 for the first year, Z175 for the second year, and after the second year L200 per annum and that he be allowed an assistant at the rate ef 140 per annum. Mr. J. A. Williams said that the clerkship to the Board was a public appointment, and no doubt Mr. Watkins would devote all his time to the work of the Board. There could be no doubt that the feeling out- side was that Mr. Watkins should be appointed. Mr. Wilkins thought it would be more business-like to draw up an agreement between the clerk and the Board, together with the necessary bond, which should be signed by the clerk and the chairman, something similar so the agreement they had with their late clerk. Mr, Blake did not think that the Clerk should hold any other public appointment, but at the same time he did not object to his doing private work. Mr. D. Harry asked what the salary of the assistant would be. The Clerk replied that the Committee had put it down at X40. Mr. H. Wilkins was of opinion that in reference to the assistant, they should fix his salary at a £1 a week. The position, to some extent, had changed since the death of their Chairman. Mr. Watkins' assistant had been for years under their late clerk, engaged chiefly in School Board work. He proposed that the salary of the assistant be X52 per annum. Mr. Blake seconded, and it was carried. The recommendation as to the appointment of Mr. Watkins was then unanimously carried. Mr. Blake congratulated Mr. Watkins on his unani- mous appointment, and was convinced that the appointment would be as popular outside the Board as it was on the Board. He felt confident Mr. Watkins would justify the confidence reposed in him, and the new clerk would receive, under the circumstances, the moral and material support of the members. Mr. Henry Wilkins followed in a similar strain, remarking that Mr. Watkins had been admirably trained by reason of his association with the work with the late clerk for sixteen years. The new clerk bad no doubt a noble example in the late Mr. Jennings and he (the speaker) had every confidence that Mr. Watkins would strive to copy it. Mr. Watkins returned thanks for the confidence reposed in him. A great example had been set him by the late Mr. Jennings, and he would endeavour to copy it, and nothing would be wanting on his part to give the Board satisfaction.

MAGISTRATES' COURT. I TOWN HALL, WEDNESDAY, before Messrs. J. S. Tregoning, E. Trubshaw, H. Wilkins. and Major I Bythway. NON-PAYMENT OF POOR RATES. I A number of persons were charged with non-payment I of poor rates. In most of the cases orders for pay- ment were made. ADULTERATED MILK. I R. Powell, Richard-street, was charged with selling adulterated milk on the 19th ult. Mr. H. W. Spowart prosecuted on behalf of the Borough Council. The Defendant said that he had recently lost a cow, and, in consequeuce, he had been forced to purchase milk elsewhere to supply his customers. The milk the inspector bought off his daughter was milk that had been bought from another place. The Bench fined him 2s. 6d. and costs 17s. TEMPORARY TRANSFER OF LICENSE. I Mary Ann Ramsay applied for the temporary trans- fer of the Ashburnbam Hotel. The Bench granted the I application. DRUNKS. I W. Carpenter. Pembrey-road, was charged with being drunk in Pembrey-road on the 2ud inst., Mr. W. H. Howell appeared for the defendant. The Bench fined the defendant 5s. and costs. W. Davies, Crooked-row, was charged with being Arasjk in Water-street on the 27th ult. A line of 14s. 6d. including costs was imposed. Thomas Davies, 7 Bryn-terrace, was charged with being drunk on the 2nd inst in Nelson-terrace. Mr. D. G. Rees appeared for the defendant. The defendant was fined 15s. fid. including costs. ON SUSPICION. I Thomas Jones, of no fixed abode, was charged on suspicion with being a deserter. The Bench said there was no evidence against him and he was therefore discharged. The defendant said that he had been custody since Monda.y and had lost 12s. 6d. in consequence. The Bench said it was his own fault through not giving a proper explanation. I NO DOG LICENSE. I Morris Evans, 64, Tumble-row, was charged with keeping a dog without a license on the 9th ult. D. Daniels, Tumble, sworn, said that he bad seen the dog with Morris Evans on several occasions. He had sepn it with him on the street. He told him not to keep the dog. Since this conversation, he had seen the dog with the defendaut.-The Bench fined the defendant Is. and costs £1. D. Williams, 82, Tumble-row, was charged with keeping a dog without a license on the 24 ult. P.C. W. J. Britten proved the case, and the defend- ant was fined 2s. 6d. and costs. Mervyn James, Pinged, was fined 2s. 6d. for keeping a dog without a license. I A MAINTENANCE ORDER. I Mary James, Tyrfran, Llanelly, wife of William James, made au application for an order under the Summary Jurisdiction (Married Woman's) Act, 1895. Mr. T. J. Williams appeared for the complainant a.nd Mr. W. Howell for the defence. Mary James, the complainant, sworn, said that she bad been married 20 years. On March 22nd, her hus- band locked her out and he had done so on previous occasions. In consequence of his conduct she went te Tyrfran. Defendant bad told her to go where she liked aud that she was not wanted with him. About nine weeks ago he threatened to shoot her. Cross-examined by Mr. Howell She would not go back to him. She was in fear of him. She was afraid of him in drink and when he was sober. Annie James, daughter of the defendant, also gave evidence. The Bench said that the case of desertion had not been proved, and they therefore dismissed the application. DRUNK AND DISORDERLY. I R. Davies and R. Bowen, Llangennecb, were fined for drunkenness and disorderly conduct. CHIMNEY SWEEP IN TROUBLE. W. Croome, a sweep, was fined ;Cl-or in default 14 days-for stealing a chimney sweeping machine. MARKET BYE-LAWS. Charles Collis, senior, Charles Collis, junior, and W. J. Collis were charged with breaking the market bye-laws by fighting. The case against the senior Collis was dismissed, but the younger defendants were fined 11s. 6d. each.

SERIOUS ILLNESS OF MR. CLIFF BOWEN. Our readers will regret to learn that Mr.'Cliff Bowen, the Welsh International footballer, is lying seriously ill, suffering from au attack of pneumonia. Mr. Bowen is at Aylesbury, where he was on a visit to a friend when taken ill.

ENTERTAINMENT AT SILOH CHAPEL. An interesting penny reading was held at Siloh I Schoolroom Oil Tuesday evening last, Mr. A. J. Pere- I grine presiding. Appended is the programme:— Recitation, David J. Richards; trio, G. Hughes, D. Jones, and L. Davies recitation, H. J. Davies; recitation, G. Saunders; song, Madge Harries; recitation, M. G. Davies; song, G. Harries; song, R. P. Davies; song Miss E. A. Evans; competi- tion, impromtu speech; duett, J. Williams and J. Davies; recitation, M. G. Davies; instrumen- tal solo, R. P. Davies; song, Minnie Hopkins; song, D. Davies, Tunnel-road song, Lettie Rees song, E. A. Evans song, John Williams instrumental solo, R. P. Davies song, E. A. Evans solo and chorus, R. P. Davies, and children of the Band of Hope. The accompanyists were Messrs. J. R. Hopkins, George Lloyd, and Miss Rees, Ship and Pilot. Mr. Willie Davies, Cradock-street. made a splendid accompanyist on a previous occasion.

LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD. ■ ♦ SYMPATHY WITH THE FAMILY OF THE LATE CHRMAN. I The monthly meeting of the Llanelly School Board was held at the School Board Offices on Tuesday last, Mr. Hopkins presiding, there being also present- Mrs. Evans, Messrs. J. A, Williams, W. David, H. Wilkins, G. Blake and D. Harry, together with the clerk (Mr. Ifor W. Watkins). THE LATE CHAIRMAN. J-he Chairman said that he had the painful duty of proposing a vote of condolence with the widow and family of the late Chairman (Mr. H. J. Howell). The loss to the family was very great, and the loss to the Board was no less. It would be a very difficult matter to fill his place. The late Mr. Howell had been chairman of the Board for the last two years, a post which he filled most skilfully. The deceased gentle- man loved School Board work, and the loss to the town and district would be incalculable. Mr. H. Wilkins seconded, and said that as one who had a great deal to do with Mr. Howell, he felt deeply the loss they had sustained by the death of such an excel- lent chairman. The loss was great to town and Board, but greater still to the bereaved family. Mr. Howell was a great educationalist, and was very careful in the discharge of his duties at all times. Since the late clerk's death, Mr. Howell had put heart and soul into the work of the Board. Mr, Howell was highly respected by the members of the Board, the teachers of the whole distri ot, and the general public, and no doubt his loss would be keenly felt. Mr. Blake supported the resolution and said that he was in church on Sunday morning, when he heard of Mr. Howell's sudden death,and he felt it very much. He had sat under his chairmanship for the last two years and be had always found him courteous and zealous in the discharge of his duties ag chairman. They would miss him at the Board much. Mr. Hewell's place could not be easily filled. When, little differences occurred on the Board, he was very careful, and would smooth them down. The late chairman was well adapted to his position and carried out his duties most skilfully. They should now try to follow his example. Mr. W. David said that it was difficult to find any- thing to add to what had already been said. Asa young member of the Board he felt he owed Mr. Howell a great debt. No loss had been greater to the town than that of their late chairman. He could not say how sorry he was when he heard of the decease. He was also very sorry for the widow and family. He hoped the Board would try and follow the good example of their late Chairman. Mr J. A. Williams was also deeply grieved when he heard of their loss. The loss was one of the greatest blows in the history of the School Board. The way in which the late Chairman followed all the examina- tions and other work shewed that his heart anrt snnl were in his duties. Mr. Howell would go out to the country with their clerk, Mr. Watkins, and not return until late at night, after having been visiting the various schools. He felt that they bad lost their Chairman at a very trying time in the history of the Board. They must now join hand in hand and heart to heart to try and carry out the work as in the past. Mrs. Evans concurred with the remarks of the previous speakers. She was of opinion that Mr. Howell was a perfect gentleman in every sense of the word. She was extremely sorry when she heard of his death. The vote was then passed in silence. I THE CONFERENCE. Mr. Blake said that he was very sorry he was not present at the educational conference when he was at London the other day. He did not receive the telegram of the Board in time. He had made all his arrangements before he received the wire. BYNEA SCHOOL. I The use of Bynea School was granted to the I adherents of Soar, Bryn, and Tabernacle Chapels. I THE LOANS. I I A letter was read from Mr. W. David making offers I in reference to the loans. The matter was deferred. PROCEEDINGS TO BE TAKEN. I I A letter was read from the managers of the Dafen School with regard to the boy Gwilym Evans absenting himself from school.—It was decided to take pro- ceedings. I INCREASE OF SALARY. I The salary of Mr. J. Williams, of the Higher Grade I School, was increased to Y,80 per annum. I LLWYNHENDY SCHOOL. The Clerk said that Mr. Coles, head master of the above school, had made an application for a sewing mistress for the school.-The matter was left in the hands of the managers. APPLICATIONS. I Applications were read from E. R. Coles. Dafen School, and D. Thomas, Park Street School, to be recognised as Ex-P.T's. The matter was deferred un- til the Board considered the staff,-E. Andrews, of Llwynhendy School, applied for a transfer to Dafen School if Edith Davies was transferred from Dafen to Llwynhendy. The matter was referred to the managers. HOLIDAYS. I On the initiative of Mr. J. A. Williams, it was decided that the holidays commence mid-day on Wednesday. THE AUDIT. The Government auditor, Mr. Hugh Williams, reported that hs had completed the audit of accounts. He had made no disallowances or surcharges. It afforded him much pleasure to state that all the books were well and carefully kept, reflecting much credit on Mr. Ifor Watkins, the clerk. SCHOOL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE. I The following recommendations of the committee I were codfirmed at the above meeting:— HIGHER GRADE. That 6 sliding doors, 3 up-stairs and 3 downstairs, be I placed in this school, and the work be carried out if I the plan is approved of. DAFEN SCHOOL. Mrs. Evans attended the meeting in reference to her 1 son, GWllym Evans, not attending the school, and it was agreed that the child be sent to school. COPPER WORKS srrrnriT ¡¡ Mrs T. Rees and her daughter attended the meeting in reference to her complaint that her daughter had been ill-treated at the girls school by Miss Davies, one of the assistants. Mrs. Thomas, the head teacher, and also Miss Davies attended, and after hearing the different statements it was decided that no blame be attached to the teachers, there being no proof that the girl had been abused. BRYN SCHOOL. An application for an increase of salary was made by the head-master, Mr. Gwylym Harries, and it was recommended that the same be increased to £85 per annum' GWENDRAETH SCHOOL. A letter was read from the managers in reference to a mistake made in Mr. Richards' tender for supplying one cupboard and table to the school. It was recom- mended that a sum of JE5 5s. be paid him. DAFEN INFANT SCHOOL. It was decided that Beatrice Andrews be appointed candidate at this schoel to fill the vacancy caused by the removal of M. Humphreys to the Higher Grade, she having failed in the inspector's examination. PARK STREET SCHOOL. I It was resolved that the recommendation of the I manager to increase the cleaner's wages from JE1 7-1. 6d. to il 14s., to include all materials for cleaning, be upon. LAKEFIELD SCHOOL. It was decided that two cupboards be provided, as JI suggested, for the boys' aud infants' schools. FELINFOEL SCHOOL. I It was recommended that Miss Fanny Wilson be I engaged as ex-p.t. for the infant department of the I above school. NEW DOCK SCHOOL. It was resolved that proceedigs be taken against the I parents ot D. Howells and Roger Thomas for not I sending their children to school. CENTRAL CLASS. I The pupil teachers' instructor's report was read and it was decided that the books &c. required be ordered. Also that the Chairman see Mr. Duckworth in reference to Ogilvie's Dictionary which the instruc- tor recommended, and it was decided that it should be obtained. I AN APPLICATION.  An application was received from Mr. J. Samuel, the drill inspector, for leave of absence from June the 1st to June the 10th to attend the annual training of the Pembrokeshire Yeomaury. It was granted,

| DEATH OF MR. HENRY J. HOWELL. 01 AN APPRECIATION AND A BIOGRAPHY. Yet another of our public men-aue whom we trusted and honoured, one who had borne the heat and burden of the day for many years—passed away in the person of Mr. Henry John Howell, chairman of the Llanelly School Board, on Sunday morning last. The sad event came unexpectedly, for although Mr. Howell had been in indifferent health for many years, he had appeared of late to have gained in activity, and had taxed his energies '.o a degree in the administration of education in the parish. It; was well known that the deceased gentleman was suffering from an old heart affection. Howbeit, as time sped on he seemed to grow no worse, and many fondly cherished the hope that he would be spared to the town for many years yet to come. That hope is now dead, for the respected chairman of the School Board passed away on Sunday morning after an exceedingly short illness. On the preceding Wednesday he was far from well, but towards the week end he seemed to recover, and on Saturday he was actually able to be out of doors. Early on Sunday morning he suffered a serious relapse, and at eight o'clock he passed away. In his death, Llanelly loses an able, conscientious, earnest and faithful public servant, one who had been actively associated with town affairs in one form or another for a quarter of a century. Although nofc. Llanelly born, the deceased gentleman passed the greater portion of his life in the town. He was the son of the late Mr. Benjamin Howell, timber merchant, And was for years the directing genius of the flourish- ing business on New Dock Road. He commenced public life at an early age, and served for several terms on the old Local Board with distinguished success. He was chairman in several critical periods in the history of Llanelly when his resource, experience, and ability were simply invaluable to the town. His public life will, however, be better remembered in connection with the School Board, which he has adorned with a ripe ex- perience of educational affairs and a finely-cultivated mind. The deceased gentleman was an exceedingly able educationalist, deeply versed in the acts relating to education alike in their local and general application. As chairman of the Board, he was thorough, energetic, and painstaking to a degree. He had a close and inti- mate knowledge of all the details associated with the administration of education in this district, and no man could have discharged the duties of the position he held with greater tact and a finer courage. The late Mr. Howell was a devoted Nonconformist. Of Park Congregational Church, he was alike a pillar and ornament. His father was one of the founders of the cause, and early in life the late Mr. H. J. Hawell assumed in the same church one of the positions of honour and distinction. He was, 1 one of the senior deacons and secretary, and for years was the chief superintendent of the Sunday School. His connection with the church and all its auxiliaries was close, fond, and faithful. There his death will be a loss well nigh irreparable. The late Mr. Howell was a staunch Liberal, who was held in the highest esteem and respect by the party whose interests he consistently advanced, and whose councils he enriched from the stores of his ripe experience. The deceased gentleman was in his 66th year. We deeply sympathise with Mrs. Howell and the bereaved family in their loss. THE FUNERAL. The funeral-of a strictly private nature-teak place on Wednesday, the Rev. H. Elvet Lewis officiating. The mourning carriages were:—1st. carriage: Rev. H. Elvet Lewis and Dr. E. Evans. 2nd carriage, Messrs. J. C. Howell and T. B. Howell (sons), and Harry Evans, (son-in-law). 3rd carriage Messrs, T. Taylor, Harrogate (brot'aer-iu-law): G. Leng, Leeds, and K H. Litlu, (nephews), The bearers were workmen from the Timber Yard.

THOSE WHO LABQUR. By GEORGE H. WOOD. The Ystalyfera Branch of the Amalgamated Society of Railway Servants are going a fair way towards "making history." So far as I know, their action in passing a resolution condemning the action of Messrs. Henry Broadhurst, M.P.,and Charles Feuwick, M.P., in opposing Tom Mauu in the recent Halifax election is without precedent. It raises the question, first, ought local Trade Union Branches to pass resolutions on such matters ? There is much to be said on either side. III the first place, ths cause of Trade Unionism is the workers' great cause. If Labour Members are real Labour Members, and not sha.m ones, they will sacrifice all party ties, that trade Unionism shall not suffer. They pledge themselves to their constituents, and to their fellow Trade Unionists who support them and assist them to gain their seats, that they will use their best endeavours to further the cause of combina- tion amongst the workers. Thus they are not so much the representatives of a constituency, as of Trade Unionist workers. This being so, one body of workers have as much right as any other body of workers to criticise a labour M.P.'s actions. These labour M.P.'s, however, have a strong reply. They point to the honourable record of the Liberal Party, and to the programme of that party, and say, justifiably, that no good can come of admitting discussion into the Trade Union ranks and that it is wrong to oppose an avowed supporter of Trade Union- ism, as was Mr. Billson. Therefore, no matter who may be the labour candidate, unless he is prepared to go with them, they must oppose him. "He who is not with us is against as." Personally, I quite agree with the Ystalyfera railway men. Mr. Tom Mann is as capable a leader as is in the labour ranks, His record is an honourable one. His quarrel with the Liberal Party is a just one. If Messrs. Fenwick, Broadhurst, and others cannot agree with his views, they can, at least, respwet his abilities, and hisjzeal for the labour cause, and let him figbt his battle without handicapping him. Some of us, who are members of the I.L.P., have foreseen for some time and now see more clearly than ever, that an end must come to these three-cornered fights. There are too many, and an honourable compromise must be made, whenever possible, so that only two candidates be left. Iu the case of the recent Halifax election, for iustance, it ca.uuot be doubted that Mr. Billson's position in the constituency was bad, and although he won the test another might have been found who would have united all the progressive forces and for whom Mr. Tom Mann would have stood aside. The time seems ripening for a general progressive movement. Many there are, who, though not pledged socialists. are, undoubtedly, thorough going reformers. With a strong programme, the whole forces of reform might be cemented. Unity is strength, and the pro- gressive movement can only be aided by unison within and without. At the present moment we have Social Democrats sneering at the I. L. P. We have the 1. L. Press sneering at the Liberal Labour members and these in their turu are at daggers drawn with those who should be their best friends. Surely, this spirit should cease ? Reynolds Yev)spapu suggests a way out of the diffi- culty which might be successful. This journal sug- gests a frieudly conference, under the presidency of say Mr. Labouchere, in which Social Democrats, Radical Democrats, Fabians, Independent Labourites, etc., might be represented. It could do no harm, and might do much good. At present, tbe nation is steadily drifting back into reactionary Toryism. It is in the embraces of the classes, dominated and cor- rupted by money, the prey of the laud monopolist, the bogus company promoter, aud the tied-house beer- lord, Our contemporary's twords are strong, but they are true, and instead of .auarrehngC?ougst our selves, we should endeavour to remedy dus state of things.

FIRE IN VAUGHAN STREET. A fire was discovered in the lock-up shop of Mr. D. C. Parry, Vaughan-street, on Tuesday evening. Messrs. Philip Rogers and A. Pullen, who were passing at the time, burst the door in and pluckily extinguishect the flames.