The Llanelly Mercury and South Wales Advertiser

ECHOES 01'TUli WEIiK. [BY SIRIUS."] THE POSITION OF THE CoLLECTOR. I -No or' o will complain of the decision of the Llanelly Borongh Council to increase the salary of Mr. David Francis, the collector of the borough rates, to the extent of LI,50 per lnnum. Mr. Francis has been in the service of the Council for about twelve years at the same salary, notwithstanding the fact that during that period the work has materially increased. The decision of the Finance Committee of the Council to increase the salary at this juncture is really due to a recommendation of the Loca] Government Board auditor to the effect that 31r. Francis should devote the whole of his time to the duties of the office, Mr. Hugh Williams, the auditor in question, being of opinion that zixiy other arrangement would be unsatisfactory. An application for an increase of salary was made to the Council by Mr. Francis some years •ago and it was acceded to, not by raising the salary standard, but by giviughim permission todoother work. This system has apparently not been a success, hence the change instituted at the meeting of the Finance Committee on Friday ur last week. The conditions of remuneration ure now to be readjusted, Instead of leceiving a fixed sum, Mr. Francis is to receive a com- mission of 2b per cent., in accordance with which it is expected there will be increase in the return to him of about ;£lijO. This is not an extravagant increase, in view of the fact that in future Mr. Francis is to devote the whole of his time to the duties of the office. Hitherto, he has been making about £2ÕO per annum out of the work. This sum, however, has not been all for himself or anything like it. Indeed, is is ques- tionable whether he has made anything out of the office except the merest bagatelle, for out of the figure just named, he has been expected to pay two or three clerks to assist him in the work. | THE HEALTH OF LLAKELLY. I The report of Dr. Sydney J. Roderick, the I medical officer for the bore ugh of Llanelly, is II reproduced in another column, and I am sure my readers will join with me in concluding that it forms highly interesting reading matter. In one important respect, the report is absolutely unique in the annals of the town, inasmuch as it registers the lowest death-rate on record in the history of the town, the rate of mortality for L896 being as low as per 1,000. This is really excellent, and will, L imagine, more than favourably compare with that of any similar- t sized borough in the entire kingdom. A death rate of 13 5 per annum constitutes indubitable testimony to what in the main must be a higly ratifying condition of sanitation in the district within the jurisdiction of the Council, and it also speaks volumes for the quality of the water supplied from Cwmlhedi reservoir. If the sanitation were defective, and the water supply poor, an inevitable tale would be told in the presence of two particular diseases, which are a singularly true aud reliable index ja both directions named, I allude to diphtheria And typhoid fever. It is eminently gratifying j --a gmtificatioll in which every unit of the community must share—that during the last decade the death-rate in Llanelly bts been reduced from 231 per 1,000 to 13'5. This is a fact which we should seek to publish as ex- tensively as printer's ink can circulate it. AN INCIDENT OF OTHER DAYS. The extraordinarily low death-rate for the past year recalls an incident during the tenure of Office of LAIr.Botirne as chairman of the Council, un incident which is well worthy of reproduction here. It was, I think, in the late eighties that n communication was received from the town clerk of Brighton, directing attention to the remarkably low death-rate recorded in that borough during the previous year, the communi- cation being obviously intended to serve as an advertisementfor that fashion able health resort. It so happened, however, that in the very year under notice the death-rate in Llanelly also had heen remarkably low—with the exception of that for last year it was, indeed, the lowest known-and Mr. Bourne, after the late Mr. Jennings had finished reading the communica- tion, jocularly observed that Llanelly, having ontie one better than Brighton in this respect, aiiould succeed to the prerogatives and privileges of that fashionable resort and that a, reply to that effect be sent to the Brighton town clerk. ——— THE HOSPITAL FUND. The Hospital fund to be raised under the auspices of tue Queen's Diamond Jubilee, may now fairly be said to be on the go." A highly satisfactory start with the working arrange- ments were made at a meeting of the Special Committee on Thursday last. It will be remem- bered that on the previous Monday evening the meeting of the committee in question was, in vulgar parlance, more or less of a" flat shot." Ample amends were, however, made for this tit the adjourned proceedings on Thursday evening when a thoroughly representative assembly went earnestly and vigorously into questions affecting the details associated with the collection of the money necessary for the purposes which the managing committee have concisely and cogently placed before the public. if there has been any doubt in the mind of the committee in question in relation to the Attitude of the public to the movement which has been set on foot, this doubt must have been effectively dispelled by the warmth and spirit with which the various practical details of the work were taken in hand by the meeting held on Thursday evening. The proceedings on the occasion named offered a substantial guarantee that the sum of £ 2,000, which the management committee hope to raise, will be found. This, at any rate, is the earnest wish of the writer of this column. At the meeting under notice some references were made to what was considered a grievance of the artizan class in the town in respect of the non-representation of the working men on the committee of management, and curiously enough, one of the speakers was disposed to raad into a. note appearing in this column a week ago an allusion to this grievance as constituting the reason for the small attendance :<.{; a recent meeting of the special committee. 1 take the first opportunity, however, of dis- claiming having any such intention in the echo iu question. if I had ever heard of the grievance. I assure my readers that it was not present in my mind when the references embodied in my note of last week were penned. Indeed, I have been satisfactorily convinced throughout that the existing committee of management have every desire that the body should be thoroughly representative, and would g:aclly welcome a strong working-class re- presentation. It is just as well, however, that the grievance should see the light in proper hrm" and in the proper quarter, since it gave !n opportunity to Mr. Maclaran, as chairman of the committee of management, to correct in definite terms an unfortunate misapprehension. Alter Mr. Maelarans courteous, cogent, and f ex't'austive explanation, I imagine that the I grievance will disappear for good. i

LLANELLY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS. ELECTION OF OFFICERS. I The annual meeting of the Llanelly Chamber of Commerce was held at the Chamber room on Friday evening last Mr. Dan Williams presided. there being al-o present Messrs. F N. Powell, (h. In. sec.), Gwilym Evans, J. Gwyn Thomas, T. Griffiths (Luton House), W. Griffiths (Metropolitan Bank), F. R. Nevill, G. F Blake, D. Evans, J. Walter Thomas, W. H. Cox, C. F. Thompson, D. Randell, M.P., J. G. Daw, R. Stuart, A. P. Lewis, D. G. Rees (solicitor), Joseph Williams, K. Trub.-haw. J. Holmes, D. Williams. H. W. Spowart, J. A. Williams, H. D. Evans, W. David, J. Howell, Holmes Stead, W. Howell W. Griffiths (architect), W. Bowen, S. Da.w, E. Morgan, J. Scaife, R. F. Randell, J. Maybery, F. Lidgey, E. Coles, and F. L. Rees. THE BALANCE HHEHT.. The Hon. Sec. submitted the balance sneet for the year. It was of a most satisfactory character. He remarked that the number of mem- bers was 166 and only one of the total member- ship had n"t paid his subscription. The Chairman said it was gratifying to find that the statement shewed a balance in hand. He was also pleased to hear that there was only one unpaid member in the 166. He proposed that the state- ment of accounts be accepted. Mr. Gwilym Evans seconded, and in doing so said he was sorry to complain of the arrangements in reference to the telephonic communications of the chamber. He did not use the chamber telephone at present, as the arrangements were unsatisfactory, and he was forced to go elsewhere The resolution was put to the meeting and carried. I THE AN NT" AT. REPORT OF THE COtfiSfCII, OF THE i CHAMBEB. The Clerk read out the annual report of the Council of the Chamber as follows :— The Council beg herewith to present to the members of the Chamber their report for the second year of the Chamber's existence, since its incorporation. It will be remembered that the year immediately proceeding the one which has jnst terminated was one of exceptional activity and interest- The Council are pleased to state tlwt the past year has maintained its position in this respect. Matters affecting the interest of traders and the ratepayers of Llanelly and district have been laid before the meetings of the Chamber, and discussions which attracted a considerable amount of attention j have taken place with regard to them. I LOCAL TEAOE. i In their last report the Council drew attention to the unsatisfactory and depressed condition of the staple industry of Llanelly, namely, the tinplate trade. They regret that they are now unable to report any appreciable improvement. It is satisfactory, however, to note that the conditions of employment so far as regularity of work is concerned, have been more favourable in this town than in other parts. The coal trade on the whole is in a fairly satis- factory state compared with the position of affairs 12 m mths ago, A pleasing feature is the fact that operations are going on in the vicinity of the town which it is hoped will meet with immediate success, and thereby result in the opening out of large colliery Undertakings. I The Council are glad to state that during the last 12 months a large steel works his been in course of const ruction, and will at an early d" te be completed, notwithstanding the misfortunes and difficulties the promoters have met with owifig to the exceptional gales of wind and rain with which Llanelly has been visited during the past winter. This undertaking must prove to be an immense boon to the town. Experiments having for their object the manu- facture of galvanizing sheets have been adopted in some of the tinplate words. What the result may be it, is difficult to foretell, but the possibilities in this direction are great, and from the point of view of labour, must be regarded with satisfaction. I WATER TARIFF. This subject was debated at several sittings of the Chamber upon the initiative of the vice-president, who submitted a series of resolutions purporting to make the conditions of the tariff more uniform and equitable, particularly to the smaller consumers, and in the resu't the Chamber adopted the resolutions subject to certain modifications. Having regard to the interest taken in the question, and to the important statements made by several members qualified to speak with authority, it is expedient that the matter should be taken in hand at an early date by the governing body of the town with the view of bringing about alterations and improvements in the present condition of things. which it is quite clear does not give general satis- faction. j THP, GREAT STOrnr. I At the commencement of the past winter a terrible storm of wind and rain was experienced in Llanelly, resulting in the New Dock district being flooded. Much distress was occasioned, and a puhlic relief fund was started Your Council felt it their duty to take a part in the movement, and they were successful in obtaining a substantial sum. t RHON'BDA AND SWANSHA DAY RAILWAy. This question has been again under the consideration of the Council during the past year and certain corres- pondence has taken place with the directors of the Company. It is sufficient to state that efforts will be made at an e:trly date to induce the Company to apply for parliamentary powers to extend their Ime to Llanellv. I STATION ACCOMMODATION. It had long been felt that the accommodation to traders and the general public at the Llanelly passenger and goods stations was inadequate and an interesting discussion was introduced at the Chamber by Mr R. F. Randell, and a resolution urging the Great Western Railway Co. to meet the requirements of the town was passed. The Council are pleased to state that the Cllmpany are seriously taking the matter in hand and that an immediate and long wished for improvement in this direction will be the result. I LETKL CROSSINGS. In addition to the serious inconvenience and delay caused to business men and the public generally by means of the present system of level crossings, particularly near the Great Western Railway Passenger Station at Llanelly, it was felt that there was great danger to life and limb, and the Chamber took the matter up in ernest. A resolution going to the heart of the question was passed and a deputation appointed to present same to the Llanelly Urban District Council. The deputation waited upon the Governing Body of the town and strongly urged the Council to take immediate steps. Your Council, however, regret to state that nothing satisfactory has been done by the Governing Body in respect of these particular crossings. C'OMM H UCI AT. EDUCATION". I The establishment by the London Chamber of I Commerce of a system of Commercial Education I attracted considerable attention to the examination schemes issued by them. Several debates took place iu the Chamber and before their close a valuable contribution in the way of an address was kindly given by Mr. Sidney Jones, B.A., (a native of Llanelly), one of the examiners of the London Chamber of Commerce, The suhject was so thoroughly ami lucidly dealt with by Mr. Jones 'that.il was decided to print his paper and circulate it amongst the members of the Chamber. The debate resulted in the following resoltllieli being I adopted n 'me1y:That this Chamber cannot accept I the examination scheme of the London Chamber of Commerce relative to commercial education but sug- gests that steps should be taken with the view of I establishing some shemo more likely to meet local re- quirements." ELECTRIC MGHTIKG or THE TONVN-, I Mr. J. C. Howell, electrical engineer of Llanelly,yery kindly invited the members to inspect; the installation of lights erected by him in New Dock Road in connec- tion with his scheme for the electric lighting of the town. A large number availed themselves of the invitation and jllr. Howell explained very fully the details of his scheme and the probable cost. The members were also taken through the electric works. Mr. Howell at a subsequent date delivered an iuteresting and valuable address upon the subject of electric lighting of Llanelly. THIRD CONGRKSS OF CHAMBKBS OF COMMERCE OF THB I KMPlltR. Mr. Blake attended the congress as the representa- tive of this Chamber aud afterwards delivered his I report. ASSOCIATION OF CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE. I Your vice-president (Mr. G. Evans) and Messrso William Bowen aud Thomas Hughes attended the Autumn Meetings of the Associated Chambers of 0.nlllmerce in Southampton as the representatives of this Chamber and afterwards delivered t.heir report thereon The Spring Meetings of the Association of 1897 were held itt London and Messrs -William BIHven and Thomas Jones represented this Chamber. NORTH P KM B ROK KSIII It B RAILWAY. The promoters of this railway in their hill before parliament last session applied for powers to construct N series of short lines in immediate proximity to [Janetty. Their proposals wpre carefully considered by the Chamber and a deputation WaS appoilltld to wait. upon the Docks Committee of the Llanelly Harbour Commission to urge the Commissioners to strenuously oppose the Bill unless satisfactory terms for connecting Llanelly at certain points were ob- tained. Your deputation met the committee and an inter- change of views took place wljich showed that there was a practical unanimity of opinion with regard to flIP Bill your are glad to report that the representations of the Commissioners found ready acceptance at the hands of the promoters. The Bill w»s, however, thrown out by Parleime.it, but your Council will not lose sight of the matter, when the promoters again approach Parliament. I GAS. Serious complaints as to the supply atif] qiialitv of gas in the public lighting of the town having been inside, the question of the obligations of the GaR Com- pany nlHlr their COHt.r:wt \Vit II the governing body of the town was di"e\:81(¡ at a meeting of the Chamber, and a resolution urging tho Urban Dist.rict Council to insist upon the agreement with the company being carried out was passed, but your Council regret to state that the reply of the town authority w:ts not satisfactory. I ACCOMMODATION. Yoiir Cotiitcil regret to state that they have been unable as yet to find better and further accommodation for members. It was hoped that long ere this additional rooms in the Nevill Memorial could have been procurerl and correspondence took place with the Urban District- Council on the subject, but. no arrangement has been arrived at. Your Council will lceep in view this important matter and will avail themselves of the first opportunity to improve the present accommodation. I MKMBERSHir. The Council are glad to state that the number of members has increased during the last year. The Council regret that during the pftst. year your auditor, Mr..John Jennings, was removed by death. Mr Jennintrs had for many years been closely identified I with this Chamber and bad for a considerable time acted as auditor. He had also prior to the Incorpora- tion of the Chamber been a member of the Committee for many years Hi.i piace as auditor was filled by the appointment of Mr..1. Gwynne Thomas. Attendance of Members of the Council for the year ending 25th March, 1897 D. Williams, President. 14 j G. Evans. J.P., Vice President 6 A. P Lewis, H on. Treasurer 7 1). Randell, M.P. 1 E. Trubshaw, J.P. „ 4 T. Jones (Merchant) 6 J. Mavbery, 3 H Wilkins, J.P. 8 G.B'a.? 8 W. G,iffiths (B.. ?) 6 W Bowen 12 .T. Allen Williams 7 R. F. RaTiflell 8 T. E Fielding 4 ) John Jennings ^deceased) (1! 3 The Ciiairiaan moved the adoption of the Council's report, and thought they could con- gratulate themselves upon the useful work they had done last year. With regard to the local industry, he considered that the condition of the tinplate trade was a source of great anxiety to those engaged in it —an anxiety due largely to the increased competition in that trade from America. He believed that the Welsh manufacturers were at length—aft er some delay-—opening their eyes to the fact that there were other countries which would consume large quantity of plates, if proper repre- sentations were made to them, and representatives found. Fresh ma-kets should be opened up at no distant date. He was sorry to find that the, tinplate manufact urers had been unable to agree in raising a fund to send out representatives to open up new markets in other countries. TheBlackburn Chamber of Commerce had sent out such representatives to see what could be done for the Blackburn trade, and a satisfactory report had been presented. It would be a good thing if the tinplate manufac- turers of Llanelly could do something in this direc- tion. The coal trade of the district was in a more satisfactory state than in the previous year. He was sure it. was their heartiest wish that the un- dertakings now in hand would be successful. It was of vital importance that there should be a good gas coal in the district. They were making big efforts to work this coal at Machynis and he trusted that at no distant date the coal would be worked pro- fitably in their neighbourhood. With regard to the anthracite trade, it nourished well during the past year, and from what he had heard it was the intenti-n of proprietors to ship large quanties of this coal at the G.W.R. Dock in Llanelly He was also pleased to state that the rates had been materially reduced,the concessions frorathe G.W.R. Company being considerable. However, there was a great deal to be yet done in this direction. The rating in Germany contrasted most favourably with the rating here. The railway people should be alive to the fact that unless they gave proper facilities for carriage to the coast, coal proprietors could not compete with Germany. In America also the rates were much lower than in this country. These facts should induce the English Railway companies t" re-consider their poiti Ill. In refer- ence to the steel trade, they welcomed the new industry to their midst, and no doubt all hoped it would prove successful. The local water tariff, like the poor, had been with them for some years. There had been many interesting discussions on the matter, and he hoped that when it was taken up again, the qu ;stion would be solved, and give satisfaction to all concerned. They had not lost siiiht of the Rhond la and Swansea Rail- way and the proposed connection with Llanelly,and the Chamber would aga n take the matter up in the autumn. They had not finished matters in relation to the level crossings so far as they should They ought to take upon-themselves the business, and not wait for the Urban Council. With regard to commercial education, they had had several interesting discussions thereon. They had had the advantage of a very able address delivered by Mr. Sidney Jones on that subject, but lie (the speaker) was of opinion that the movement of the London Chamber of Commerce was too ambitious for the needs "f South Wales. He would like to see a small committee appointed to consult with H.M.I., with the object of opening an ex- perimental clas: at Llanelly next winter. The electric light was another question which had been under discussion and he considered that the Urban District Council should take the matter up and seriously consider it. The proposed extension of the North Pembrokeshire and Fishguard Railway was a question which would have to be closely watched by Llanelly authorities. There were two sides to the question and it was for their Chamber to consider what benefit Llanelly would derive from the pro- posed extensions. Mr. J. Maybery seconded the adoption of the re- port nd remarked in reference to the level crossings that he had been informed by Mr. J. Rees, the traffic manager, that the company had the matter in hand, and ere long- they hoped to complete arrangements for having the shunting done the side nearest Swansea. The plans had been drawn and operations would be commenced at an early date. Mr. E. Trubshaw supported the resolution and said that the town authority were very glad to receive the Chamber's support on all matters apper- taining to he welfare of the community. Resolutions lL been passed by the Chamber which had been of great value to the town. The District Council bad done all in their power to give affect to the views of the Chamber on all matters effecting for good the town of Llanelly. He had been a member of the deputation to the Company on the railway case, which had been carefully discussed in committee, and he was glad to learn that the result was satisfactory to that. body and to the town generally. The report was then adopted. THE PRESIDENT FOB THE ENSUING. YEAB. The Chairman said that lie bad very great plea- sure in proposing that Mr. Gwilvm Evans be appointed president, for the en-uing year. Mr. Evans, as they all knew, was a commercial man, and one who believed in the future of Llanelly That was obvious by the investments ho had made in the various industries of the town. Mr. Evan- had taken a great-deal of intereatin county council work. of which body he was a member He had also done excellent work: in the the advancement .f technical education in Wales. Mr. Evans was a member of the Llanelly School Board for many years, but his hands were not quite so full now a.. they were a couple of years ago He had no doubt that Mr. Evans would go through the duties of chairman during next year more successfully than the office had ever been filled before. Th-y c -ul,i not fix upon a more capable trentlemen to fill the chair. All present, no doubt, hoped that Mr. Evans' health would be restored to him. thus enabl- ing him to undertake the work or the chair with vigour and zeal. Mr. Trubshaw said that he had great pleasure in seconding the resolution. He was quite sure that all present were, exceedingly glad to see Mr. Evans amongst them once m-»re af'ter his serious illness. It was to be hoped that he would thoroughly re- cover his usual state of health and that he would enjoy his presidential position and have a success- full year of office. Mr. Evans bad thehi^h com- mercial ahilities which were required to filrthe office with success. He was quite sure that Mr. Evans would assist them in guaranteeing the future prosperity of Llanelly. Mr. D. Randell, M.P., supported the resolntion and was of opinion that ho could add nothing to what had already been said of Mr. Evans. He wished him every success in his new office. The resolution was put to the meeting and carried unanimously. Mr. Gwilym Evans thanked all present for the honour they had confer; ed upon him in electing him to the important po-ition of president of the Cham- ber. He was of opinion that Llanelly was one of the principal towns iti Wales, and it was true that he had always believed in its future and in proof of that belief he had invested his money in the concerns of the town. He would take the chair, and promised to fill it to the best of his ability. He had watched the town with interest for the la-t quarter of a century, and would seek to continue to watch it closely for i he next quarter century. He was proud of the distinction conferred upon him as one who had honestly striven to be of some service to Llanelly. The retiring president had d, ne tiis work well and deserved all the praise that could be given him. All the members had listened most attentively to his addresses, and had he"n quite satisfied with the work he had done durintrhis term of office. He (the speaker) hoped that he would be spared to endeavour to fill the chair as ably as Mr. Williams. His only hope was that his health would return to hirn and that he would be of service to them and the town (applause). Mr. J G. Daw proposed that Mr. W Bowen be appointed vice-president for the ensuing year. Mr. W. Howell seconded. The Chairman supported the motion and stated that they would be very fortunate in obtaining Mr. Bowen as vice-president. The motion was carried. Mr. W. Bowen thanked the Chamber for the honour they had done him. He considered it a great honour to be elected vice-president of that chamber. He would second Mr. Evans in all his efforts to advance the interests of the chamber j and the town. I I TIUJ TREASURER. Mr. W. Griffiths (Metropolitan Bank) proposed there-election of Mr. A. P. Lewis as treasurer. Mr. G. Blake seconded and it was carried. Mr. A. P. Lewis thanked them for the re-appoint- ment. THE SECUKTAKY. The Chairman proposed the re-election of Mr. F. N. Powell, as secretary. Without him ho did not think the Chamber could have been so success- ful and useful as it had been. Mr. F. N. Powell had given them great assistance and his advise had been very valuable. His re-election would he for the welfare of the chamber, and he would no doubt give Mr. Evans and Mr. Bowen valuable aid. jI Mr J. Maybery, in seconding the proposition, said that if Mr. Powell would consent to act for another year, it would be an excellent thing for the Chamber. Mr. W. Bown supported the motion and said that the success of the Chamber had been largely due to the efforts of Mr. Powell, and he hoped that gentleman would live to occupy the position for many years to come (applause). The motion was earned. Mr. F. N. Powell said he was exceedingly obliged to them for the way they had received his re- election as secretary. However, he did not think it right that the same per-on should fill the office every year. There was no doubt a lot of work attached to the office but he had done it with pleasure, for it bad been a labour of love. Mr. Evans was not in the best of health and it occurred to him (the speaker) that he might be of some assistance to him as secretary in the coming year. He would therefore consent. to undertake the duties for another year (applause). I AUDITOK, The Chairman proposed the re-election of Mr. J. Gwynne Thomas as auditor. Mr. W. Howell seconded and it was carried. Mr J. Gwynne Thomas thanked the Chamber for re-electing him as auditor, and he assured them that 1 he would do the work to the best of his ability. I A NEW MEMBER. I Mr. Reginald Tnffley Harding, solicitor, was un- I animously appointed a member of the Chamber. I VACANCIES OK THE COUNCIL 01" THE CHAMBER. The Clerk reported that there were no nomina- tions for the vacancies on the Council, and it would be for the Council to select members to fill up the vacancies. I THE DIAMOND JUBTLI3E. The Chairman said that they had to appoint two representatives to act on the special committee formed for the purpose of obtaining subscriptions to remove the existing debt on the hospital and for the necessary improvements thereto, and also for the erection of a children's ward. He proposed that Messrs. William Bowen and W. Griffiths, I (Metropolitan Bank) he appointed. Mr. Gwilym Evans seconded and it was carried. I A VOTE OF THANKS. Mr. J. A. Williams moved a vote of thanks to the retiring chairman. Mr. Williams had done his work remarkably well during the year and he deserved the thanks of all the members. He was sure that all would agree with him that Mr. Williams had done a great deal for the interests of the Chamber. Tho retiring president, had been very courteous and uniformly straightforward. His addresses and decisions had given entire satisfaction. Mr. H. W. Spowart seconded and it was carried. The Chairman asked them to accept his thanks for their kind remarks. He thanked the secreta' y and all present for their kind support during the three years he had been in office. They had worked harmoniously together and he hoped they would do so in the future.

I ST. JOHN'S FOOTBALL CLUB. A meeting of the St. John's football club will be held at Leonard's refreshment. rooms next Saturday, at 8 p.m. All members and i tending members are requested to attend. Business, important.

LLANELLY HARBOUR COMMISSIONERS. AN EMPHATIC "NO" FROM MR. I JOHN" GRIFFITHS. I THE PILOTAGE OF THE PORT. I Th-i monthly meeting of the Llanelly Harbour Commissioners was hold on Monday at the Town Hall, there being present. Mes-rs. D. W Ryes, Tom Hughes, W. Howell, J Thomas, Jo-iah Davies, J. Hopkins, W. Kuoyle, J. Griffiths, W. Coombs, and •farry D. Evans, together with the clerk (Mr. H. W. Sp wart), the hari)()ur engin -er (Mr. Colin P. Fowler) and the collector (Mr. W. H. John). I "NO "FROM MR GRIFFITHS. I Mr. Tom Hughes: I understand that Mr. Trub- shaw will not be here this afternoon, and I beg- t • piopose i hat Mr. D. W. Re", thu ex-chairman, take the chair. Mr. J. Hopkins: I second. Mr. J. Griffiths: No there's one for you. Do you want another? Mr. Tom Hughes: All those in favour will signify in the usual way. .M". Griffiths: No. The motion was carried aed Mr. Rees took the chair. I THE WAGFIS ACCOUNT. I I Mr. Fowler reported the wit-ie.,4 account; for the 41 I weeks ending 1st May, 1897, as follows ;E s. a. Docks 312 3 Harbour 33 8 2 Buoys 17 1 1 Lights 13 16 2 Dredger 26 4 7 South Training Wall 0 11 2 994 13 5 I STORES' TENDERS. I Mr. Fowler reported as follows :—" I have tabu- lated the tenders for stores received from Messrs. Wilkins, Morgan, Griffiths, and Ball, and find that Mr. Morgan's tender is lowest for 35 items, Mr. Griffiths' for 10 items, and Mr. Wilkins' for 5 items. The last three mentioned are equal in their quota- tions for 5 items, namely, sheet lea 1, patent picks, sheet rubber, putty and counterzinc nails. Messrs. G iffiths and Wilkins are equal and lowest in their qu-'tation for petroleum. Messrs. Morgan and Griffiths' are obviously the lowest tenders for the more important items. It was resolved that the lowest tenders be accepted, and that the items in which the tenderers were equal in price be given to the tenderer who had the largest number of lower prices in other items. I TIMBER TENDERS. I Mr Iiowler reported: Messrs. Howell and Sons are the lowest in their quotations for 11 items, and Messrs. Brown, Thomas, and John for 3 items the two firms are equal in 5 items. The same principle was followed in this cas as the former. I THE DREDGER. J I Ml'.li'ow1c1' reported that the d'e'?pr had worked I I5r)? hoars and dbcharged 3,420 tons of material. I TRADE OF THE PORT. I Mr. Fowler reported that during the month of I April, 53 vessel paid dues at Llanelly as Hgainst 60 in March and 71 in April 1896. The imports were i as follows: I I Tons. Iron & Steel Bars 3437 Bar C..pp(,r, or Copper, or Load Ore. 395 Timber 899 Manure 155 Slates 70 Cement 100 Sand, Clay, & Stones 250 Tin. 40 Coal Corn j, 265 Potatoeq 8G General Goods, 806 Total. 6503 I The imports for March were 9,383 tons, and for April of last year 6,973 tons. The exports, exclu- sive of tin plates, were 12,780 tnns, against 12,8S0 in March, and 18,163 in April of last year. AtBurry Port 18 vessels paid dues, as compared with 12 in March, and 24 in April of last year. The export of coal was 7,797 tons compared with 3,735 ton", in March and 9,385 in April of last year. The Llan- elly deliveries have been as follows: April, 1897. April, 1893. IMPORTS KXPOHT3 IMPORTS EXPORTS Carmarthenshire Dock 112 3817 Nil. 4821 Copper Works Dock 202', 5366 4291 7079 Llandly Dock 4366 3563. 2682 6263 Tons 6503 12780 6973 181(33 I THE PILOTAGE. I Mr. Fowler submitted the pilots' certificates fot. signature. To » Chairman asked if Mr. Fowler had any com- plaints to prefer against any of the pilots. Mr. Fowler: No. Mr. Coombs: How many pilots are there now ? Mr. Fowler: 22. Mr Hopkins Is it your intention to increase the number ? Mr. Fowler: No. I have had a conversation with them, and of course it is to their interest- Mr. H pkins But what is your own opinion ? Mr. Fowler: That there are enough. Mr. Griffiths: The captains of the cutters should have a chance if there is a vacancy. Mr. Fowler I have no objection to the captains receiving cei tificates. In answer to Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Fowler said that the number of available pilots had been reduced in c nsequence of illness, but he had no reason to ihink there was a lack of pilots for the vessels coming into the port. Mr. Griffiths: How many are working ? Mr. Fowler: All eoicepfc two. Mr. J. Thomas thought that the Commissioners should take some definite step, and not keep people hanging on in the expectation of n. job. The Chairman considered the discussion out of order, as they couldn't make any appointment unless they had a written application before them. Mr. Howell did not think there was any objection to a resolution sanctioning the appointment of the cutter captains SL- pilots. The Chairman did not see how they could make a man a pilot in the absence of an application from him. Mr. Griffiths: They are quite ready to be made pilots: they are only waiting for a "call." Mr. Fowler said he had received verbal applica- tions from the cutter captains to be made pilots. The Chairman said it was in his personal know- ledge that they desired to be made pilots. Mr. Hughes observed that it was customary to receive applications in writing. Mr. Hopkins considered an application to Mr. Fowler quite good enough. Mr. Fowler observed that on former occasions he I had recommended masters of the cutters when there had been vacancies. The Chairman remarked that in any C'lse no appointment could be made that day, as first of all applicants had to undergo an examination. Mr. Hopkins You will certainly get applications at the next meeting. The Chairman Very likely. Mr. Coombs: The question of compulsory or non-compulsory pilotage should be settled before you make any new pilots. It was at this junctcue decided that the cerfcifi- t catcs bo signed. I THE DREDGE?,. I Mr. Coombs drew attention to what was con- sidered in some quarters the hindiance to navigati..n by the presence of the dredger near the lighthouse when ships were passing. It occurred to him that Mr. Fowler might possibly be able to avoid any cause of complaint by moving the dredger at the times when traffic was proceeding. Within the last-, few days, a large steamer arriving a little late, and unable to swerve round the lighthouse as far as it might but for the presence of the dredger, went ashore, and the captain believed that but for the I dredger the vessel could have cleared. Mr. Fowler replied that on the occasion named a strong northerly gale was blowing. No doubt, the ship's captain would endeavour to make out that it was in consequence of the dredger that the niiahap occurred, but the trong Do, therly breezo had t) be taken ieto account, together with the fact tl\at the vessel was vry ight and very much down at the stern. He didn't think that tlie-e complaints we>e q- ite c 'rrect. Mr. C >. mbg admitted that. there was a strong wind on the occasion named, but at the same time the opinion was held that but for the dredger the ship could have got in. Mr, F >wler remarked that they had to choose bet veen two evils ep her have the d d^er there to rem we tho sandbank or have the sandbank. M .Coombs suggested that the di- (I-er should n t be worked at high water when the traffic was on. Mr. J. Thomas considered it was high time that the -spurs on both id&" shoq'd be shortened. He believed there was a resolution (III the books to that (-IT- ct, Mr. Fowler said that was to be done subject to an arrangement with Megs-s Nevill, Druce, & Co. Mr. Hopkins observed that if Mr. Fowloy saw anything could be done in the matter mentioned by Mr. Coombs, no doubt he would -f,e to it. He wall disposed, howt'ver, to agiee with Mr. Fowler that it was a case of choosing between two evils. The subject then dropped. I AN INDEX. On the initiative of Mr. W. Howell, an instruction was giv,-ii to the clerk to prepare an index to the ruinate b,;ok. I THE EXPENSES QUESTION. Mr. J. Griffiths alluded to an item in the accounts for the expenses of a Commi-sioner t London with first-clas- fare. He did not appr ve of this, and it was time they came to an understanding. He didn't see why any Commissioner should have anything more than 2nd ciass Ia., e, aud a guinea per day for expenses. There should be a standard rate, as there was in other town- Even their servants weie travelling to London first-class. The Chairman did not tnink this was in order. Mr. Gdffiths said it was and pr-tested against the system. The Chairman a-ked if Mr. Griffiths was pre- pared to move that th amount be n t paid. Mr. Griffiths replied that it would not be a bit of good. although ii was quite time they came top-, some agreement as at Swansea and Cardiff. The Chairman advised Mr. Griffiths to giva notice of motion. Mr. Griffiths said he had once or twice, but it was no good. They would have a notice of motion, from the ratepayers next. THE SIURVEY. A letter was read from Commandor Gerard, stating that he hoped to commence the survey of ttieesttiaryon JiiiieI-t. COMPULSORY OR NOT The Clerk read a letter from Mr. D. Rtndell, M. P., enclosing a communication from Mr. T. D. J aies, the leyral representative of the pilots, in inference t.) the c i)diti, ns of the pilotage. Mr. Jones was of opinion that it was time the Com- missioners c.ime to a deeision as to whether they intended to proceed further for the confirmation of the oye-laws, making the pilotage of the port non- compnlsory. Mr. Randell ill his letter remarked that the judge had" ith-held confirmation until the Commissi ncs bad cine to s .me arrangement with the pilots as to c,,mponsptti >u. The Chairman remarked that this was a most important matter and it should, in his opinion, be referred to a special meeting of the Pilots' Com- mittee. Mr. Griffiths quite concurred with Mr Jones that it was high time the question should be settled. It was unfair to keep the pilots in suspense. As a matter of fact, the Commissioners were simply diyrgle-d iggling with the pilots. Mr. Hopkins agree 1 with the chairman's sugges- tion, and the question was referred to oommittee. BURRY PORT TRADERS. The question )F t ilci Ft proceedings against the traders of Bur> v Port f >r the rec Iverv of the dues chargeable under the Llanelly r-hrb IUt" Act was again raised, and after some discussion it was decided thtt proneerli IIgs be taken. The Oollector stated that only two accounts had been paid and that a sum. of £ 250 was due. MR. G RIFFITHS AND TI-I.tg CLBBK. The Clerk explained the reason why a notice of motion given by Mr. Griiffths in respect of the salary of Mr. Fowl>-r did not appear on the agenda. When he (the clerk) received the notice he looked up the bye laws cursorily and considered that he should receive seven d,LY" notice, and the members three. Howovei*, he subsequently f,,uni that it was enough if the members received seven days'' notice. The Chairman observed that Mr. Griffiths had heard the explanation. Mr. Griffiths replied that he had, but he didn't agree with it. Mr. Howell remarkod that if the Council were agreeable, it could be considered that day. Mr. Griffiths said rhat if the notice had appeared on the agenda a big attendance would have been whipped up. He took the notice to the learned clerk, although he, (the speaker) felt convinced at the time that only 7 days' notice was required. He forgave the clerk this time, but he hoped it would never occur again. Tho Clerk remarked that Mr. Griffiths was in no way to blame. I THE LIGHTING- OF THB CHANNEL. This question was raised by Mr. Co 'mbs, who asked for a report on the question by Mr. Fowler. It was a most important matter, and he knew that during the last few months they had lost a con- siderable amount of trade because the channel was not lighted at night. The Chairman observed that they had been unable to take the question in hand owing to the fact that they bad not negotiated their loan. Mr. Coombs did not think it necessary to wait for tho negotiation of the loan. Part of the work could be undertaken, and the additional charges would at, least pay for the interest on the money expe ided. It was decided that Mr. Fowler should bring up a rcpo t on the question to the next meeting.

THE HARBOUR ACT. I A VALUABLE TIME TABLE. At Monday's meeting of the Llanelly Harbour Commissioners, Mr. D. W. Hees presiding, a valuable time table embodying particulars of interest both to the Commissioners and the general I public was submitted by the clerk (Mr. Hi W. Spowart) as follows Date of Royal Assent (from which periods are calculated, unless otherwise stated) 7th August, 1896. Section 19. Period for completion of works, viz Training walls, new channel, dock and entrance, bridge and railways, authorised by Section 6: Seven years. Section 25. For compulsory purchase of lands: Three years. Section 32. For purchase of foreshore from Mr. C. W. M. Lewis: Three years. Section 3G and First Schedule. Purchase of fore- shore from Woods and Forest Department at £ 2.100: Oiie y(,,ti-. Section 37. Realised lands, preparation of plan showing high water marks, works executed, and lines adopted for training walls, with view ot deposit thereof, as sta ted in Section Six month*. Section 38. Further plans to be prepared, within six months after 1st August, 1899, showing lands gained or reclaimed by Commissioners' works: 1st. February, 1900. Thereafter the like to he done in quinquennial periods. Section 39 et scq. Here follow da.tes relating to claims to foreshore and arbitration thereon. Section 13-1. First payment of instalment to sinkiuS fund, or monies collaterally secured, to be made 1st January, 181)7. Section 130. Commissioners to make provision to satisfaction of Boaul of Tratle for pnying ? I monies borrowed within 60 years of borrowing. at and after expiratiou of seven years. It was decided that the time tables be printed and circulated among the Commissioners.