The Pembroke County Guardian and Cardigan Reporter

PEMBROKE DOCK BOROUGH SESSIONS. Saturday, March 24th.-Before Mr. S. B. Sketch (in the chair), Ald. J. Hutchings, Mr. W. Angel. Mr. S. Allen, Mr. W. Dawes, and Mr. T. Brown. ANOTHER CASE FOR TRIAL. Frederick Weilard was charged with stealing a pair of boots, value 6s., the property of Frederick Geurge Harwood, on March 23rd, and further that he had been previously convicted for an indictable offence. Prosecutor said that he was a groom, and lived at Llanreath. On the previous Thurs- day and Friday, he had seen accused near his house. On Friday he leit a pair of boots, which did not belong to him. He had seen, his boots again that morning when P.C. Thomas brought them, to him. P.C. Thomas said that that morning, from information received, he made enquiries. He met accused in Pembroke Dock, and as he answered the description given by Harwood, he asked him to accompany him to the police station, where he charged him on suspicion. He then asked him to take his boots off. He replied, "The Loots were served out to me before I left the service, and if you go to the barracks you will find that out." Wit- ness examined the boots, and found one tongue different to the other, as Harwood had described them to him. Witness after- wards took the boots to Harwood, who iden- tified them as his property. Accused was committed for trial at the next Quarter Sessions for the county. AX ARGUMENT WITH THE CHIP POTATO MERCHANT. Martha John, an elderly woman, of Pennar, pleaded not guilty to a charge oi being drunk and disorderly on the Pennar Road on March 10th. According to P.C. Miles, accused was very drunk, staggered about the road and fell in people's door-ways. She also had an argument with a chip-potato man, and he had to interfere.—P.C. Thomas said that the same evening he saw the lady in a drunken condition. When he saw her she was making remarks to the chip-potato man, and saying she thought "these d- foreigners ought. to be kept out of the country."—The Chair- man: In agreement with the Alien Act. Mrs. John said she could not be drunk, as she had nothing to drink.—Fined 2s. 6d. and costs 7s. 6d., or seven days.—Mrs. John: I'll go to Carmarthen. RATE CASES. Eighty-three persons were summoned for non-payment of the poor-rate, and 99 for non-payment of the general district rate.- These cases were proved by Mr. C. Lawrence rate-collector, but the majority had been oCLLieu otiore coming before the court. UNFAIR GOSSIP. During the hearing of these cases the Chair- man said that there seemed to be a good many persons who were under the impression that certain people in the town were excused then- rates. This was a very unfair and unjust statement to circulate. Anyone could see the excused list either at the rate collector's office or at the clerk's office. It was ex- ceedingly unfair. He had himself heard it said that people in the town were excused. He had sat in that court many times, and he had never heard The names mentioned by rumour mentioned there. It was a cruel and unkind thing to circulate these rumours. It was bad enough to appear before the court to be excused, but it was infinitely worse to have one's name bandied about, when one had paid their rates regularly. Mr. Lawrence said that he had heard these remarks made, and he had denied them em- phatically; to some he had produced his books to prove that the statements were incorrect. It had been rather a sore point with him, for some of the names mentioned were people who gave him as little trouble as any in the borough.

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A T ON BACHELORS. DEBATE BY PATER SOCIETY. The members of the Pater Literary and Debating Society spent a pleasant evening at the Intermediate School, Pembroke Do«.k, on Thursday last, when Should bachelors be taxea" was the subject debated. Though a most serious matter from a young man's point of view-curious to relate much cause for amusement was found by the ladies who comprised the majority of the audience. Of course under the circumstances, the vot- ing went in favour of the suggested tax. The chair was occupied. by Dr. R. H. Wil- liams, who, in his openng remarks, after saying that he had "fallen" from his bachelor estate, made a few suggestions with regard to widows, from which it appeared that his opinions were seaigwhat on a par with those of Mr. Sam Weller, sen. Some people, he saiu, considered that putting a tax on widows would be absolutely inade- quate, for they would never pay the tax more than once. They considered that some- thing drastic should be done—boiling oil or drowning being very effective. (Laughter.) Mr. Mclveon, who opened the debate in the affirmative, proved himself to be an excellent counsel for the prosecution. He commenced with a grave indictment against the modern bachelor and all his ways. According to the society papers, young men would not dance, etc., and the marriage market was at a standstill. Single men were becoming more seliish every day, and seemed to care for nothing but pleasure. Men who married, on the other hand, became good citizens, and if they cotuid by any means make the young men follow these examples it would be a desirable thing. He found that bachelors certainly had the best part of the cake in thn world, but on examining their claims to have it, he found that they had not got a leg to stand on. After pointing to the general electkm as a proof that iiie country wouikl no longer federate a single man at the head of affairs, Mr. MeKeon gave a most graphic description of how a young man would occa- sionally behave towards a young lady. "He throws languishing eyes and tries to look miserable," said he, in a tone which bore conviction. "The young lady for some time takes no notice—or pretends to take no notice. But he becomes so insistent and looks so de- jected that at last she asks what is the matter. He replies in a heart-broken voice, "I have not slept for weeks nor eaten for months; whenever I try to interest you in my doings or welfare you turn a deaf ear. I cannot excite any interest in you, and the result is that I am completely miserable, because you know you possess my heart." This young man is only trying it on—trying his 'prentice hand on ihis soft innocent girl. She being unsophisticated, believes he is miserable, and svinoathy being akin to love, she pities him a',id- takes an interest in him. Presently she lets him know her heart is really yearning towards him. He, like a Red Indian, puts the scalp in his belt, goes on, and thinks no more of that lady." This awful picture had an overpowering effect upon the risible faculties of the audience, and when they i recovered Mr. McKeon proceeded to suggest that the tax should not be in money but in kind. Why should not the single man be made to assist the married man?' Let him be forced to occasionally nurse the baby or lay the carpet. After reading the report of a breach of promise case, he concluded by saying that the bachelor was not indispen- sible. and this was proved at the time of the Flood. Mr. Roberts took up the cudgels on bchnl of the bachelors. He asked did they sug- gest a 7s. 6d. tax like dogs, or did they suggest getting all they could out of them for the benefit of the married men. Why not tax race-horses or bookmakers instead of the poor inoffensive bachelor, ploughing his lonely fur- row and doing a lot of good to some people. He asked would they tax a bachelor who was supporting a widowed mother, or one who was a cripple? And then there was the bachelor who had loved with all the insanity of first love and had been refused; was he to be taxed ? Would they also tax the bachelor who remained single because he thought ali the ladies were too good for him? Bache- lors were not always bachelors from choice. Why not also tax the unmarried ladies of the country? If they were going to have a tax he suggested it should be a transferable license, and when a lady refused a bachelor the latter could hand it over to her, and she would pay the tax in future. He would like to ask any married- man there to stand up and say that if the lady he had married ha refused him he would have married another. Then there was another thing to think of, and that was the number of passive resisters who would refuse to pay, and be sent to prison. He indignantly denied that bachelors were not indispensable, and in conclusion he said that he considered the bachelor a much better member of society than the man who married in haste, repented at leisure, and flew the country, leaving a wife and family behind him. Mr. Dawes advocated taxation on a sliding scale with the income of the bachelor, and said that whereas the bachelor might be com- pared with the grub, or crysalis, the married man was the butterfly. Mr. Roberts, he grub state. Mr. Scannell and other gentlemen supported. Mr. McKeon and Mr. Wimbury, on behalf of the bachelors, pointed out how they were already indirectly taxed. Despite sundry invitations, no lady could be prevailed upon to expound her views, but when the voting was taken there was a ma- jority in the affirmative.

PEMBROKE DOCK CON SERVATIVE CLUB. ANNUAL MEETING. GEN. SIR REGINALD POLE-CAREW AND PEMBROKE BOROUGHS. The annual general meting of the Pembroke Dock Conservative Club was held on Satur- day evening, when Mr. T. Brown, J.P., pie- sided. There was a large attendance, u among others present were Mr. R. Collins (chairman of committees), Mr. J. Hall re- gistration secretary), Mr. J. Brown (secretary), Messrs. H. ü. Truscott, A. J. Hobson, T. Thompson, C. T. Davies, T. Allen, W. Davies, sen.. W. H. Harris, W. T. Holt, F. Lloyd, A. J. Upson. CHAIRMAN'S ADDRESS. The Chairman, in his opening remarks, s; they had had a disastrous defeat at the last election. He was very sorry that the elec- tors in these boroughs had shown such base ingratitude to the party who had done so mufh good for their country in general, and especially for Pembroke Dock. (Applause.) He was sure they vould all agree with liiin that in the last ten years they had seen some splendid times in Pembroke Dock. e L, r hear.) He did not think the electors h studied the interests which they ought to have studied; otherwise they would not have 1; such a defeat as they had. He was sure that their candidate deserved ar great deal more encouragement than he received, am he was surprised hat the people in Pein- broke Dockyard showed so inue confidence in the Conservative Government after all u the latter had done for them in the past. ANNUAL REPORT. The annual report was read by the Secretary, and showed that the receipts irom the re- freshment department showed a slight increase on the previous year, though the billiard table had not been so satisfactory as they had a right to expect. The registration worit during the past year had not been so satis- factory as the coiiziittee could have desired, but this was mainly due to the unfortunate discharges from the Dockyard, which h taken place. During the year the committee regretted to state, Mr. T. Ormiston, their late popular and respected secretary, had passed away. It had been decided to per- petuate his memory, and an oil painting of him had been secured, and now hung in the club reading-room. The number of mem- bers of the club was now 369, a slight cte- crease on the previous year. In moving the adoption of the report, 1\[ i R Collins remarked that this year was the year of the coming of age of the club. They staric in Queen Street in 1885, and then as now they were a defeated party, but in the intervening years he thought they had had a fair innings. (Hear, hear.) He hoped that during ti year they would succeed in clearing off the whole of their liabilities, though the prospects of the town did not appear very bright, now that they vvere told that 200 men were to be removed from the Dockyard. Mr. Davies seconded, and the report an: balance sheet were unanimousy adopted. INTERESTING CORRESPONDENCE. Letters regretting inability to be present were read from Col. Saurin, Col. Meyrick, Gen. Laurie, and Mr. H. A. Jones Lloyd, after which Mr. Hall read some interesting correspondence frorn Gen. Sir Reginald Pole Carew. Mr. Hall stated that immediately after the result of the poll became known, Gen. Sir Reginald Pole Carew was ake, whether he would stand again, but declined to say off-hand. In a letter written the following day, however, said, "I do not intend to forsake you if you really want me." In another letter since then he wrote "I have been pressed to stand for the Bas- ingstoke Division, but pleaded ill health. After some further extracts from the corres- pondence, Mr. Hall moved the following re- solution That this general meeting of the members of the Pembroke Dock Conservative Club desires to record its sincere gratitude to Sir Reginald Pole Carew, K.C.B., C.V.O., for the gallant effort made by him in the face of unprecedented difficulties and adverse circumstances to retain tho Pembroke Bor- oughs for the Unionist cause at the recent general election. The meeting further ex- presses the lively hope that whenever the next contest for these boroughs may take place the Unionist party may again have the good fortune to secure this d. iied gentle- man as its honoured an _cined candi- date." This was seconded by the Chairman ai: carried unanimously. ELECTION OF OFFICERS. Col. Saurin was re-elected president of tl e club, it being stated that he had been the backbone of the institution since its founda- tion. The vice-presidents were re-elected, and it was decided to also invite Gen. Sir Regina ■ Pole Carew to become a vice-president of the club. Upon the proposition of Mr. Hinchliffe, sec- onded by Mr. Collins, Mr. J. Brown was unanimously re-elected secretary. Mr. J. Hall was re-elected registration agent, and Messrs. W. Cole and F. R. Haynes were Ie- elected auditors. The retiring members of the committee were Messrs. T. T. Thompson, T. Allen, A. J. Bowen, A. J. Upson, W. G. Webb, W. Braund, and J. R. Thomas. Messrs. F. Lloyd, J. Humphreys, E. J. Mills, W. Broc-K. J. G. Griffiths, Sergt.-Majov Wright, R.E., and Se.rgt.-Major Owens, R.A., were also nominated. The result of the ballot was the election of Messrs. T. Allen, T. Thompson, J. Hum- phreys, J. R. Thomas, A. J. Bowen, W. ■ Webb, F. Llowl, and W. Brock. Proceedings concluded with the usual vole of thanks to the Chairman for presiding.

» NEYLAND. The Congregational Church.—There were large congregations at X eyland Congregational Church on Sunday last, when special ser- vices were conducted by the Rev. E. Nichol- son Jones, of Haverfordwest. The past|>r, the Rev. W. Powell, preached at the Taber- nacle, Haverfordwest, the same day. Lecture.—On Monday evening Conn. F. Hitehings presided over a large attendance at Zion Chapel, when Adjt. E. Thomas, of the Salvation Army, delivered a very inter- esting lecture, entitled General Booth's Social Enterprise."

In connection with the Llanhilleth strike, it appear that by the offer which the owners recently made, and which was refused by the workmen, it was not intended to admit any claim, but simply to offer a concession with a view to an amicable settlement. The own- ers still contend that the workmen have no, case against them for increased payment, and matters, therefore, remain at the dead loci: which has, unfortunately, prevailed for several months past.

Our representative for Pembroke Dock and district is Jlr. P. F. Smith, 4, Victoria Road, Pembroke Dock, to -,z,,I?om notices r> coming events, items of iicivs, or i advertisments should be sent. The" Guardian may be obtained of ilTpssfS? W (JT* Son Dztfiond Sti'cct Pembroke Dock, Mr. H": Smith, Bash Street, Pembroke Dock, Messrs II. H. Smith c~ Son, Dimond Street, Pem- broke Dock, Queen j Street, East, Pembroke Dock 311". Thonuis,' JV civsagcnt, A eylaiid, and .111". R. 1-[. Trezeeeks, Main Street, Pembroke.

PEMBROKE NOTES. Just; n<r<v I'm feeling rather perplexed. I can't quite underhand some of the things tliat :.t! e happening. First of all during the election rime we heard all manner of as- suranccs that if the Liberals got into power there would be no more discharges in the Dockyards. This was the tale told at Chat- ham, Purtrn:<mih, Devonport, and Pembroke. The L-bcvaio v ent into office, and then some or the ^.olkicaaus began to get strangely silent, uiid it bigan to be rumoured that theie "udd be more discharges. No more work was given to Pembroke Dockyard, and whan was ostlered that certain machinery was to bo reiiiijvct' it .ooked as though it iorebjdoi ev 1. lsur. then came a re-assuring telegram Sir Thomas Meyriek: "Just in- i-,e "men may rest aboui ([isch:1Ies." And theu last Ti- ;■r.- a bolt fioni die blue: It was stated t'arlia none that 200 men would be dischai^.ed ixuin Pembroke Dockyard. Now what i: e it all' £ -# It sv-ms to me that one thing is fairly plain: ti liar Sir Tliju-ias Meyric-k's telegram was a or else he was told by the First Lord v il,, v. as not the truth. As to which it was i .-cully can't say, so will not waste my tura in conjecture. Of course one can put a. o har construction on the sentence, "Men may .rest easy as to more discharges" -telcg-ari,s often are a trifle vague, and some- times ambiguous. But in Chatham and Ports- mouth there aie puzzled people too. I won- der wneaitx i" really is the aim of both parlies to rum such towns as have been built to meet ;hs developments of the Royal Dock- yards. It docs seem significant, that both should purer.e apparently the same line of policy in tni- direction. It can't be a mat- ter of J-ve'-cliinent, for it has been amply proved ]a- despite heavy establishment chaigcs. ciaisevs can be built cheaper in the Roy:: do ky-rrds than in private yards. I supp we mere are reasons, but then I never was -( at soh ing riddles, so must remain in ignorance. 'À 1t" I have been trying, too. to reconcile the opinioi> ext:e^ed by" Mr. X. A. Roch, J.P., to an interview with regard to Pembrokeshire weather and my experiences of the commodity. Mr. Ht. '1l says: "It's a beautiful climate, and very healthy. and also expresses the opinion that it Pembrokeshire experiences bad wea- there, r i.; worse elsewhere. Well, there's some poor consolation in the latter remark perhaps, but n the last three weeks be taken as a specimen of the local weather, I really -2el sorry for the dwellers in less favourc spot. Last week it was fine, though a lew aa.rslorTns and a cutting wind lent variety, but the week before—well, I began to despa r :,f ever seeing the roads dry. Mr. Boca Ljy., n is healthy: certainly Pembroke- shire people seem to live long; and Mr. Roch is well qualified to express an opinion. 1 really have not the assurance to say it is not healthy, but whether it is enjoyable is a matter of opinion. I have not the slightest doubt, however, that purveyors of water-proofs and umbiellas will agree that it is "a beauti- ful climate," and I should suggest that breed- ing ducks would be a profitable occupation. Bachelors ought, to be taxed. Such was the verdict of the Pater Society the other evening, and already as I perambulate the streets I imagine I can see a hunted look upon the faces of the erstwhile debonnair and happy-go-lucky young men, who have hitherto managed 'to evade the matrimonial yoke. Really on was quite a seasonable time to discuss such a weighty matter, for is it not in spring-time that 0 we are told "a young man's fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love." Of course, the knowledge that he could evade the tax-collector in addition, might help to spur on the modest youth, who dare only adore his divinity at a distance. But such seem rather scarce. The complaint seems to be cHat every young man's fancy turns, etc., but the object of affection changes. Of course, there are some who, provided with a pipe and a book, seem to need no further diversion. These are the unregenerates that the memoers of the Pater Society seek to re- lorm. That the majority of the reformers Happen to be ladies is a matter, which is, of course, quite irrelevant. I wonder now many debates there have been on the subject of the relative advan- tages of married or single life; with most de- it is tegaided as an annual. People fail to be interested in hearing or reading of the woes of the benedict or the callousness of the bachelor. Of course no one e\er^ regards the matter seriously— at least I understand the ladies never do As to the i bachelor, they. as a rule, don't even take lhc lrouble to defend th&mselves. There are, novever, one or two countries, I believe, where are taxed. I don't know how old maids are treated there; probably as the result of 1 he tax there aren't any. But when- ever I hear .hi3 subject uiseussed it reminds ProbiVmos? of%mUrSea^5dase aneedotes; Artciiius's experiences with the Shakers,"and also remember ,ne incident where the show- man is claimed by a "scandalous female" as her a^nty 'Don't you ever vearn for niecoo: ,he ladv. "Vor a ,-earrf" re plies the unimpressionable showman. It's some time since I read the st but that empha.n- replv^aax ays remains in mv ire- '> n?ether It was labelled This is a or not. Forthcomir:^ Dnnco. .1 .u. "v JV' A dance, arranged by Mr. S. A. Elliott, whose band is wei.otnowi^ 111 tne locality, it is an- eS. m ihC lemP«aace Lecture. On Tuesday evening Adjutant Thomas of the Salvation Army, delivered an address in the Congregational Chapel, Meyric-k Street, Pembroke Docic, on "General Booth's Social Enterprise." Mv. W. Angel presided over an excellent -attendance. -i c e' .1 Missionary Sermon. The preacher at the Royal Dockyard Chapel on Sunday was the Rev. Mr. Taylor, a dele- gate frorri the society fcr the Promotion of Christian Knowledge. The collections were on behalf of the funds of that society. County School. Among the successful candidates at the last examinations held by the Civil Service Com- missioncs for boy clerks in public depart- YYH'Tto+ n. T'1ln"rlc:-o CAn 1\.f, 1.{1- IUCUL3 W.J, Xli. V. ±1'. LV\ EL-CLO, OV-YTX V* wards, plumber, Pembroke. Mr. Edwards is a pupil at the County School, Pembroke Dock, and was 82nd out of 748 competitors. Education Cases. At the Pembroke Dock Borough Sessions on Saturday a number of parents were sum- moned for not sending their children regu- larly to school, but the whole of the cases were adjourned for a month. The defendants were James '.villiam Birder, Ferry Lane; Maria Lloyd, Mryrick Street; Elizabeth Davies, Wel- lington Street; Richard Williams, Llanreath; Thomas Roger, Pennar Road; Charles France, Pembroke Ferry; and William Thomas. Deserter's Cheap Trip. At Newport Police Court on Monday, a young xciiow named Douglas Sinclair was charged with travelling on the G.W.R. from Carmarthen to Newport without having paid his Ùre, and further with deserting from the V- i'.tshire Regiment at Pembroke DOCK. --Sin admitted both offences, and said that he do.. ed on the previous Friday. Part of his uniform he had hidden and part he still wore. He explained that he had in- tended to make his way to Guernsey, where his home was. For the offence 011 the rail- way he was fined 10s., and as regards the desertion he was remanded to await the ar- rival o. a i.nluary escort to take him back tt, Ile ;e Dock. Shop /iscants s Dance. The a-aucc sheet of the social evening and dance oraam^fcd by Mr. Cradauck, under the a "slices uf the National Union of Shop fAssist- all and held on February 2Sih, the proceeds of which were devoted tow aius the Local Borough Relief Fund, bar- now been issue; It shows that the receipts amounted to L 4is. jy the sale of tickets realising £12 5F., and after payment (,f expenses £ 1^ 5s. 8d. was handed to the fund. It may be mentioned that minerals were supplied gratis by Mr. S. B. Sketch, Mr..T. Williams, and Mr. G. Thomas (mayor of Tenby). The piano was lent by Mrs. Backhouse, and Miss Maggie Williams gave her services as pianist free of charge. The Late Mr. George Davies. It will be of interest to our readers gener- ally to learn that Mr. George Davies, farmer, of Saw-den Farm, Rhuscrowther, who died on the 9th inst., would have been 100 years of age in July next. Mr. Davies was bom at Ludchureh,"near Narberth, and he for some years > worked as foreman with Mr. Bowling, Buliiv?r Farm. lie was married from there, and lived for a time at Angle; from there he went to Sawdern Farm as tenant, which he has farmed for about 40 years. He was interred at Rhoscvowther on the 13th of March. It is sad to relate that his son, on the day his father was buried, immediately on his re: urn from the funeral, was taken ill, and died next day. The only surviving member of the family is a daugther living at Haverfoi'dwe.M. The Temperance Hall. On Friday and Saturday Miss Inez Howard's company attracted large audiences to the Temperance Hall to see the romantic modern military play, "Revenge." The play was full of incident and excitement from beginning to end, and theie were one or two striking situations. The company is a strong one, t u a' II and the leading characters were cleverly pour- trayed, Mr. H. Bonhote Wilson as Capt. Louis Vanessa, the blind hero, was pathetic and powerful by turns, and as Capt. Carr, R.N., and Jim Jennings, A.B., Messrs. Guy P. Ellis and Walter Kenion introduced a true nautical breeziness into the scenes where they parti- cipated. Mr. Alfred Brandon as Prince Orloff, the plotter, who murders his King, was good and minor characters were also in able hands, myfe particularly that of Count Mussant, a fire-eating Fienchman, who was pourtrayecl by Mr. Edward Swinton. The principal female characters were the Queen, Miss Vesta Sand- ford; Draga Vanessa, Miss Marion Turner; and Cora Brook, Miss Eva Trevenna. As me latter, an American lady, with a decided twang, M'ss Trevenna was most vivacious aiici entertaining.

THE DOCKYARD. The disquieting news which reached Pent- broke one evening last week, in the form of a. telegram from the borough member to the Town Clerk, came as a bolt from the blue. Even the most pessimistic of Conservatives had hoped that, with the return to Parliament of the lliee brothers Philipps, and the cap- in 0, bv the partv now in power, of all the Dockyard seats, at least a cessation of the unfortunate discharges initiated by the late Board of Admiralty would ensue. Some enthusiastic supporters of our present members of Parliament even believed that a re-instatement of a number of the dischar^ d workmen was possible. But the terms of Mr. Philipps' telegram, which were confirmed in the papers the following day, that some 200 further hands were to be discharged in April, left no room for doubt that the new Govern- ment were determined to continue the policy of their predecessors. The blow came with greater severity after the cheering telegram sent, io Pembroke a few days previously by Sir Thomas Meyri k, and a letter which had only just been r«. ctved from Mr. Owen Philipps himself, both -f which were full of confidence for the future of Pembroke Dockyard. It is no exaggeration to say that the gloomy and despondent feelings which pervaded our locality toward the end of last year are now revived with added intensity. For, whilst all that is definitely known is that the Works Deoartment is to be brought abnormally low, and that 200 hands are to be discharged from the Chief Constructor's Department, there are persistent rumours in the air that worse is to follow. Hoping and believing that ihese rumours are without foundation, we re- frain from publishing them. Eut the uneasv feeling pervading all classes in the yard, together witn the petty persecu- tions meted out to the employees by some of the principal officials, make Pembroke Dock yard at the present time far from an ideal place in which to earn one's bread. Some time ago two alternate schemes of al- teration of the working hours at this ya. were submitted by the Admiralty to the Dock- yard workmen, with the object of ascertaining which of the two schemes, A or B, met with most favour. The result of the voting was that the scheme marked B proved the almost unanimous choice of the men. The working hours embodied in this arrange- ment are as follows :— 7 to 12 and 1.30 to 5 from Monday to Thurs- day all the year. 7 to 12 and 12.45 to 4.45 on Friday through- out the year. 7 to 12 on Saturday throughout the year. As the acceptance of this scheme by the workmen had been forwarded to the Admir- alty at least a month ago, it was confidently believed throughout the yard that the new time would come into operation on Monday next, the commencement of the new financial year. As this meant a shortening of the working day by 30 minutes daily throughout the summer months, the men were looking for- ward with pleasure to the agreeable change. But, to their great disappointment, a tele- gram was received from the Admiralty on Monday last, to the effect that the alteration of time was under their Lordships' considera- tion, and that a communication would be made in July next. The employees of the yard, therefore, in- stead of ceasing work at 5 o'clock from Mon- day next will continue to work, as at pre- sent, to 5.30, at least up to July next, even if the new scheme will come into operation then. Truly a bitter disappointment to those who have been looking forward to shorter hours when most needed, in the long days of summer. QUESTION IX THE HOUSE OF COMMONS. In the House of Commons on Wednesday, Mr. Owen Philipps (R., Pembroke Borougns) asked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether he could state whether the 200 men who are to be discharged at Pembroke Dockyard dur- ing April and May would complete the num- ber of men to be discharged from Pembroke Dockyard during the financial year ending March 31, 1907. » Mr. Robertson replied in writing: "It is an- ticipated that no further reduction other than that due to natural wastage will be necessary during the ensuing financial year." A REASSURING STATEMENT. During the past few days the Mayor of Pembroke (Mr. A. F. Beddoe), the Town Cle. k (Mr. R. D. Lowless). Alderman Allen, and Mr*. W. Philipps (deputy mayor), have be 11 in London in reference to discharges at Pern broke Dockyard. They have had several in- terviews with Mr. J. Wynford Philipps, M.P., and Mr. Owen Philipps, M.P., and on Wednes- day evening they were introduced by these gentlemen to the Right Hon. D. Lloyd George, M.P. The deputation was gratified to be aoie to telegraph to Pembroke Dock that no fur- M.P. The deputation was gratified to be aoie to telegraph to Pembroke Dock that no fur- ther reductions would be necessary at Pem- broke Dockyard other than the 200 already mentioned, and natural wastages during the year ending March, 1907. THE DOCKYARD DISCHARGES. On Saturday last 24 men employed in the VvorAs Department received notice, and pio babiy an equal number will receive notice next Saturday. It is also stated that 25 men in the Chief Constructor's Department Will HP frw oicrUt T "b'I..1,1- 'I.O.J.J..li 'V.1.l:C:LUll\e "'VC.t\ commencing on April 7th. This will make 7-ii, the 200, the number stated in Parliament I Pembroke Eorough Sessions. -Uonclay, Ma-ch 26th.—Before Dr. Reynolds, Aid. J. Hutchings, Messrs. Tombs, NVil bams, and J. Rowe. OCCASIOXAL LICENSES. Occasional licenses were granted the licen- sees of ..e Apple Tree, Army and Navy, and crossed Swords public-houses, on the occa- sion ot Pembroke races. APPOINTMENT OF OVERSEERS. The magistrates appointed overseers as fol- Lows :-8t. Mary's, Messrs. G. Elsdon and H. Hall; Pembroke Dock. Messrs. W. H. Bowring and H. B. Taylor; St. Michael's, Messrs. J. Owens and T. vvdliams; Monkton, Messrs. T. H. Rogers and A. S. Lewis. RATE CASES. A number of rate cases were dealt wi These were proved by Messrs. C. W. Lawrence and C. E. Croft. In one case in which a woman appeared and said that her husband had no money, the Chairman said that he knew the man and knew that he gave all his money to his wife. "What do you do with it?" he asked. The woman replied that she paid the rent.

r 9 T. D K-VIES KID GLOVES AT 1. Hid ARE UNEQUALLED. EVE R V V IV ii I A R A N T E E D CAIViBHIA HOUSE, lmrl5. PEMBROKE DOCK.

NEYLAND URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL. REDUCTION IN THE BATES. THE HEALTH OF THE DISTRICT. The monthly meeting of Neyland Urban Dis- trict Council was held on Monday evening at the Council Chamber, when there were pre- sent Mr. G. Davies (in the chair), Messrs. ntone, vv. nvans, VV UAVIES, \j. uantu, u. M. Voyle, G. E. Carrow, H. Isgrove, T. Francis, R. Jenkins, D. Harris, Capt. Sharp. G.W.R. OBDURATE. The Clerk reported that the Milford Urban District Council had forwarded a letter they had received from the G.W.R. Company in reply to their joint petition for an improved railway service to Neyland and Milford. The Company wrote that they had now had an opportunity of giving consideration to the suggestions contained in the petition. Par- ticulaLS had been taken of the number of passengers using the 12.55 train from Haver- fordwest and the 2.30 p.m. train from New Milford when the trains were running, and the average number of persons using them only amounted to 32 and 17 respectively. Un- der these circumstances the Company would not be justified in incurring the large ex- pense necessarily entailed by running this train all the year round. At present there were ten trains each way daily, with an extra trip on Saturday, and it was felt that this service amply met the requirements of the district. With regard to the sugges- tion that a Sunday service of trains should be established, whilst there did not appear to be any demand for them, it would only involve the Company in a loss, which was not justi- fied. The facilities for the district would, however, be revised from time to time, and any changes would be taken into considera- tion. Coun. Carrow said the Company might ay there were ten trains each way daily. b; it was not the truth. He added that ].. did not think it fair also to take the num her of passengers between two towns only. The Chairman said that he had seen "a lot of people using these trains in the summer time. In the course of further discussion it was stated that only five trains ran each way daily ,and it was suggested to write to the Company pointing out the mistake. Coun. Skone thought they should point this discrepancy out to the Milford Council, and another Councillor suggested that the Railway Company had taken goods trains into ac- count. Ultimately it was decided to write to the Milford Council pointing out the Company's rpistake. APPOINTMENT OF OVERSEER. The next business was the appointment of overseers, and Capt. Sharp proposed that the gentlemen who acted last year should again be asked to officiate. This was seconded and carried unanimously. HIGHWAYS COMMITTEE REPORT. Capt. Sharp presented the report of the High- ways Committee, which stated that a letter had been received from the agent of Sir Charles Philipps, who was at present in Egypt, requesting the Council to allow the St. Clement's Road question to remain in abey- ance until he had received further instruc- tions. The committee recommended that this request be acceded to. The report was adopted. A BAD ROAD. The Surveyor reported that, acting under the Council's instructions, he had examined the condition of the road leading from Kensington Road to the Military Road. The part from Church Lane Terrace being the worst on ac- count of the storm water cutting the road, he suggested that permission be asked to di vertlhe water in two places, viz., into Mr. Harries' field below Mr. Rowlands' shop, and into Mr. Sutton's field below Church Lane Terrace. Some time back he had been in- structed to prevent cattle entering the road from the common hills. He suggested that a V gate be put in to prevent them. Coun. Garrett moved that the recommenda- tions of the Surveyor be acted upon. Coun. Voyle said that a V gate was the only way to keep the cattle out. The resolution was carried, and the Sur- veyor was also instructed to see Mr. Harri JS and Mr. Sutton to obtain their permission. Mr. Evans said that the road was in a dilapidated state. He should like to know if it was to be repaired. Coun. Voyle said that at the last meeting it was said that the ruts should be filled up. Afcer some further discussion it was rje- cided that the Surveyor be instructed to ie- pair the road. MICROBES ON THE MARCH. The Sanitary Inspector reported that the two persons suffering from infectious disease reo ported at the last meeting had since re- covered, and no further cases had been re- ported. Re had received a comolaiiit from Brace, of Honeyborough, about the oti'en- arisiiig from the scavenging tin. i'ne Medical Officer 'and himself had visited the piace, and the contractor had been or- dered to treat the offensive portion with lime. He was also informed that no more retuse would be deposited at this spot. He drew the attention of the Council to the condition of the back road at the rear of Comptoii House and the house occupied bv Mrs. T;.si;er. Several complaints had been iiiiicie ro turn of persons throwing soap-sud^ into the road and causing a great nuisance" He was also informed that there was a ce.5 po..l underneath the road in. a certain place, and he asked the Council to instruct him to ■se.e the usual notices to warn the offender, and to take the necessary steps to get the existing cesspools cleared out and filled un as it is i.jkeiy to become dangerous in it* present state. ^r• Voyle, the Surveyor said tirat the cesspool would have to be filled up and tne owner would have to build one on his n,Tn "Y'f" ln, u premises. The letter from Mr. Brace was then read and caused some amusement. "The stench is abominable," wrote he, "and the microbes have come through the hedge into the lane. Do put something to kill them at once. I catlie »hlft my cattle nor pass to serve my The report of the Sanitary Committee re- commended that the suggestions of the Sur- veyor should be carried out. They reported that they had received five tenders for the removal of house refuse, etc., and recom- mended that that of Mr. R. Scurlock for a4 be accepted. Upon the proposition of Mr. Scurlock the report was adopted. THE HEALTH BILL. The Medical Officer presented his annual report, which stated that during the past year the number of births registered was 76—40 males and 36 females. The deaths re- gisterd were 43 in number, 23 being males and 20 females. These figures gave them a natural increase in the population of 33 during the year. The birth-rate was 24.9 per 1,000, and the death-rate 14.09 per 1,000 of the p opulation. The -number of deaths under one year of age was 9; between 1 and 5 years 3; between 5 and 15 years nil; between 25' and 65 years 13; and over 65 years 13. The infant mortality rate was 118.4 per 1,000. The total number of deaths yas exactly the same as in the previous year, as also was the number that occurred under one year of a'rr.^ The births showed a slight decrease, hein0- 76 as against 84. As far as one could in dee the population was practically the dame therefore the death-rate remained as Wo-e n"d the bivth-rate was a little lower. The, number of deaths attributed to tubercular was one more than in the provio-is ve'a^ while' those from cancer were seven less. Eleven cases of infectious diseases had been notified during the year, including six cases of scarlet fever. There was a^o a consider- able epidemic of measles throughout the whole district during the- summer months, but it was impossible to estimate the exact number of cases, as this complaint was not included under the Notification Act. There were, however, a large number of children affected, and two deaths occurred from com- plications. No Isolation Hospital had as yet been provided, but he understood that other authorities were now taking steps to meet with a view of discussing the feasibility of providing a joint establishment. There were now 32 factories and workshops registered, and he found that in all the provisions of the Factories Act appeared to be satisfactorily carried out by the proprietors. An analysis of the water which had been made showed a marked improvement. On the whole he Considered that the sickness and mortality of the district compared very favourably with that recorded in other places. Coun. Carrow moved that the report be received, an d thought they could congratulate the place on not having had more deaths fiom one or two of the diseases named. Coun. Evans: We can't congratulate the peopHe on the birth-rate falling off. Dr. Cook said that it was the only falling off in the rate compared with the whole of the kingdom. The average birth-rate for England and Wales was 27.2 per 1,000, whilst the average death-rate was 15.2 per 1,000, as compared with 14.09 per 1,000 at Neyland. The infant mortality was also less than the average for the United Kingdom. The Chairman: I should think that our death-rate is about the lowest. Dr. Cook said that he had not yet seen the returns of the Registrar General, but their death-rate was the lowest he had so far seen. The Chairman said that he was sure the Council would agree that the report was an able one. Dr. Cook took a good deal of in- terest in Council matters, and he never gave them a bad report. (Laughter.) Well, he never put it in so hot that the Local Govern- ment Board came down on them. (Laughter.) Coun. Davies: The doctor speaks facts. The Chairman: I daresay he is like some other people, and shuts his eyes occasionally. Dr. Cook: I am afraid I did not see those microbes. (Laughter.) The report was received. TWOPENCE OFF THE RATES. Coun. Carrow presented the report of the Finance Committee, who recommended that the Council on Aprill 17th make a rate of 2s. 2d. in the 221, to be collected in two equal instalments on May 1st and November 1st. The Chairman remarked that it was a good thing to see the rates come down. It was far -better to see twopence come off than it was to see twopence go on. He was sure that the news they had got from H.M. Dock- yard was such that he was sorry they could IIOL reciuce it stilt more. Coun. Carrow. in moving the adoption of the report, said that the Finance Committee had carefully considered the matter. They were very anxious to recommend a reduction of the rate, and they found that the estimates of the various committees were practically the same \as in the previous year. Last year, however, they found that there were several retrospective amounts, and also £ 6.i legal expenses, which probably would not occur again. They did not feel justified in estimating that there would be no charges that were not provided far in the estimates— little things would always crop up—or that ther would be no legal expenses, but they sincerely hoped they would amount to nothing like £51. They estimated that the retro- spective amounts and legal expenses would be half what they were the previous year,and that left them with about £50 or P,60 less to call from the rates, or about the equivalent of a 2d. rate. They would have liked to have reduced the rate to 2s., but they considered that they must not run the risk of not hav- ing enough money to go on with. They hoped that through the year all the com- mittees would be very careful as regarded expenditure, especially so with regard to re- commending extra work. Coun. Voyle considered how they spent the ratepayers' money, and hoped that the com- mittees would hear in mind the fact that if they saved money it would help them next year. Perhaps next year circumstances might be even darker than they were this year —they could hardly tell how things were going now. The Chairman expressed similar views. Coun. Isgrove said that people reading this discussion when reported might take the view that the committees had in the past been rather careless in the way of recommend- ing work to be done, but the committees had always stood for economy. Ever since he had been on the Council he had never seen anything done that was not really neces- sary. The Chairman did not think any of the remarks that had been made would be taken that way, except by enemies of the Council. After some further remarks the report of the Finance Committee was adopted. VALEDICTORY REMARKS. Before the meeting closed Coun. Voyle said that he should like to mention that their o friend, Mr. Francis, was retiring from the Council. He thought they all hoped that Mr. Francis would live for many years to enjoy his well earned rest, now he had given some years to the service of the public like themselves, and as all good citizens should do. The three other gentlemen who were retiring were seeking re-election, and he knew that the intelligent ratepayers of Neyland who had been waiting for the opportunity would repay them for their services by putting them at the head of the poll. (Laughter.) The Chairman said that he hoped Coun. Voyle's words would come true, and that they would all be at the head of the poll. He thought it the least thing the ratepayers could do in return for their services. Coun. Francis said that he was sorry his five years of service had been in his declin- ing years. The time had now come when he thought he should give way to a younger man. He believed that all the time he had been on the Council every one of the fifteen men on it had done their best, and he nad every confidence that in the future they would do even better. The Chairman said he believed every one in the room was sorry to part with Mr. Fran- cis. He believed that Mr. Francis had always voted as his conscience led him in any of the difficult problems he had to face. The meeting then broke up.

.0 HUNDLETON. Petition.—A petition on the lines suggested by the National Society, in view of Mr. Bir- rell's coming Education Bill is being ex- tensively signed by Churchmen and Noncon- formists alike, in the parishes of Monkton and Hundleton. Monkton Church.—The vicar, Prebendary Bowen, proposes to have two stained glas's windows put up in this church, in the course of next summer. Mission.—The parochial mission for the rural deanery of Casflemartin, which was intended to be held in this spring, by Canon Camber Wi liams 8,nd his helpers, has been postponed unlil next summer. Band of Hope.—A Band of Hope has been recently started in connection with Hundleton Church, and it has proved a remarkable suc- cess. The meetings are hex^ fortnightly, under the presidency of the Rev. A. S. Thomas, B.A. Bisteaufodic.-At the recent Meirion Chair Eisteddfod, held in Dolgelly, the Rev. A. S. Thomas, B.A., was the winner of the prize, in a severe competition, for an essay on "The Influence of the Geographical Situation of Wales on the Welsh Character."

GARDEN GOSSIP. Bedding Geraniums.—If these were potted singly into email pots some weeks ago, they should now be well established with plenty oi roots. Such plants may now be got into coM frames, if there are plenty of mate or other protective materials for covering the lights on cold, frosty nights. Water must be given witiv care for a week or two, or many plante wi]1 fag lost through damping off. Zonal Geraniums.—Plants for flowering next autumn should now be raised by inserting the requisite number of cuttings. Good plants may- be grown from cuttings struck in May, bob those raised now are by far the best, having M longer time in which to grow and mature. • ♦ Annuals.—Whenever (the service soil of the flower borders is sufficiently dry, a number of these may now be sown outside. Coreopseo, Chrysanthemums, Linume, Mignonette, and! number of others may now or shortly be eowa in small patches, for remaining where sown fgB to be transplanted. < Half Hardy Annuals.—The time is at han(I when a goodly number of these must be sown in pans or boxes. Each grower must be guided by individual taste and means, but the follow- ing need eowing, if they are to be of a useful size at planting-out time: Verbenas, Golden Feather, Nemesias, Phlox Drummondii, Nioo- tiana affinis, Asters, and Zinnias. Stock may well wait a week or two longer. Pruning Roses.—There can be no question as to the importance of this operation, for upon it largely depends, the flowering at a later period. The time of pruning is still-and pre- sumably always will be-a matter of contro- versy. some growers maintaining that it should r6 be done in March, while others swear by the middle to the end of April. This is for stan- dards and bushes of the three most important sections, and is not applicable to climbing Roses, of which the pruning has in almost, if not quite, all cases been completed for some time. In suburban London the meet generally satisfactory period for cutting appears to be the end of March, but. there are slight variations from this, according principally to the altitude of the district. Hard versus Light Pruning.—This is another phase of the subject that is perpetually being d:,s?useed. In -come considerable degree the operator is governed by the habits of the variety, for in the case of several Tea Roses hard cutting would mean no flowers. But it may be taken as a fairly safe rule that those who reciuire exhibition blooms must nrune hard. whilst those who grow their Roses for home and garden adornment should prune lightly. For Hybrid Perpetrials and Hybrid Teas cut- ting back to thr-v bud." usually results in finlendid shoots, which produce grand flowers; <,• bile for Tets from three to five buds leave a fa-ir latitude. After the pruning is completed, it is wise to fork liglrtly over the surface of the beds, and afterwards to apply a 2-in. d.aep dier-siiig of good natural manure. Violets Under a House Wall.—A border under a south wall is admittedly one of the worst place,3 in which to attempt to grow Violets, but that same order may in winter be the very best home for Violets in the whole garden. The writer has such a border, 18in. wide, facing aim. et due smith, and running under the house wall. This he filled with Violets last October young runners promising for bloom. These commenced to give a few flowers almost imme- diately after planting, continued to do so with- out a break cltir,*iiz November. December, and January, and in February threw up more flowers than he could find time to pick. He does not anticipate a cessation of blooming yet for some time. Sweet Peas.—Provided the weather be favour- able, and the soil in good condition for work- ing, the end of the present week is probably the best possible time for the outdoor eowing of Sweet Peas. Many tieed" have already been put in, and thousands of others will be sown during April, and the plants are so accommo- dating that when properly attended to they seldom fail to give generous returns. The positions chosen should be deeply dug and generously manured, and flat bottomed drills, 15in. in width, drawn for the seeds. When- ready they will look like shallow Celery trenches. About 3in. from each side, and at intervals of 3in.. seeds should be dropped, and afterwards covered to a depth of lin. with fine loam, made moderately firm and level. This distance will sound too great to these who have always grown the plants as closely as they can pack them together, but it is none too much space to give—indeed, when the seedlings are through the ground they should be thinned to stand! 6in. asunder, at the very least. They must be protected from birds and slugs, and have email, twiggy supports when 3in. in height. 0 Early Flowering Chrysanthemums.—Like the later and: larger flowering sorts, the rooted cut- tings of the early ones are never available for one kind of treatment at the same time. It is wonderful how quickly some of the cuttings emit roots. Nearly all such may be picked out with confidence by the grower. They are those which always remain fresh, and with their .In leaves stiff and erect. If the batch of cuttings is still in the propagating frame, no time should be lost in selecting all those which are well rooted, and placing them in a separate frame, so that they may be gradually exposed to the full light and air of the house. There is nothing gained- by taking out of the propagating frame any which are only partially rooted. Leave them in the frame for a week or ten days longer before adding them to the bulk being hardened off. Many of the most forward of the youthful plants will have made one inch or more of new growth but it is not very robust, and must be strengthened forthwith. Cutting Ivv.—It is "till fully early for the cutting of ivy, but where necessary the work may be put in hand forthwith. The disadvan- tage lies, of course, in the fact that we shall not. have the new growths yet awhile to cover up the bare patches which are inevitable. Autumn Planted Trees.—The pruning of these may now be taken in hand. Buds that are likely to start into growth should be plainly discernible, and the pruning ought to be to one of these wood bin's, as near as may be pointing in the direction it is desired the future growth should take. Where littery manure is at hand give the trees a mulching over the roots, if not already done. This is especially desirable when planting in light soil. Pot Strawberries.—During bright weather these will now came much labour in watering: they will need water twice a day at least, and often three times. Nerlect in this connection usually results in mildewed and small berries, to s: nothing of ")jd.er inf,p,c;t.ed foI;!2'e. W}¡>r('j grown in quantifies for succession, tl1{>"(> sVuld now be a regular supply of ripe fruit. Give liquid manure' to those are swell in sr. but Immediately the berries show signs of colouring, cease feeding. » Broccoli.—Sow a sufficient number of seeds of 'g, -;arietv fol- p ],,ite 'ILlil!,iin r ,irly winter. Veitch's Self-Protect'g and Michael- mas White are good sorts for this puroose. Brussels Sorouts.—Sow th"e for producing the main winter supply. Do not fiOW t L-,e m thickly unless prepared for pricking th-em off when two or three inches high. Plants from early sowings should now be pricked off, on a warm border, four inches apart. Burglars have broken into the warehouses of Messrs. D. Parkhurst nnfl. Co.. at Covent- gprd/m. and cavrW! off ,rP 0

A R E A T BOOT FEAST. Bankrupt Stock must be Sold. TWO PRICES ONLY—3s and 5s per pair. CASH AND] GO-, 26COMMERCIAL ROW, and B, DIiOND ST., PEMBROKE DOCK. Men's Boots-)s," La(lies'.B- oots 3s, Youths' 3s, Girls' and Boys' 3s per pair, DON'T FORGET THE ADDRESS. M. A. JONES (late Westaway), Glass, China, Earthenware, and Fancy Goods Warehouse, HIGH STREET & MARKET STREET, HAVERFORDWEST. A large variety of the most exquisite Designs in Dinner, Tea and Dessert Services at prices to suit all. Brown and Black Wares for Dairy, Ga.rden, and Domestic Use. FANCY GOODS OF EVERY DESCRIPTION. WEDDING AND BIRTHDAY PRESENTS IN GREAT VARIETY. -:0:- Please Note the Address—High Street and Market Street, Haverfordwest, Printed and Published by the Proprietors, "The Pembroke County Guardian," Ltd at their Office, Haverfordwest, in the County of Pembroke.