The Welshman

I PEMBROKE TOWN COUNCIL. A meeting of this Town Council was held on Wed- nesday afternoon, at the Council Chamber, Pembroke Dock. There were present—The Mayor (Mr John), Aldermen Hughes, Haines, Jenkins, and Jones; Coun- cillors Froyne, Davies, J. Thomas, Gibby, Sketch, Beddoe, Tracey, Williams (the ex-mayor), J. Lewis, Powell, Phillips, Reynolds, Miller, E. Thomas, George, Nicholson, and Morison. Before the business of the meeting commenced, Mr Sketch called the attention of the council to a circular or slip, which purported to be a report of the previous council meeting, held at Pembroke. There were certain remarks in this document which might have been better omitted, for the credit of the council. Mr Sketch read some of the objectionable sentences, and added that in- asmuch as they did not appear in the public press, it would have been advisable not to issue such a circular. Besides, the author of the document wished the public to believe, that Mr Hulme (the Town Clerk) was authorised to vote at the council meeting. He (the speaker) did not doubt, for a moment, but that the public would refuse to believe such a thing (hear, hear). The Mayor was of opinion that now this otatement had been made, the matter might be allowed to rest, for the grievance could be discussed another day, when there was not much business before the council. Mr Sketch pointed out that the names of some Councillors were implicated, and the subject dropped. The Town Clerk read the minutes of the previous meeting, which were confirmed. The Surveyor .reported that his attention had been called to some footpaths, particularly in Pembroke- street, and with regard to an obstruction in Monkton- lane, he stated that he had been informed by the tenant that, under the Highway Board, the former surveyor had taken measures which caused the washing away of the ground by a running stream of water. He (the tenant) refused to repair the damage. The Surveyor said that since writing the report he had made enquiries, and he had found that the late surveyor stated that he had not cut down the bank as the tenant alleged. He mentioned that the road was now completely obstructed. Mr Miller said that he would caution Mr Ladd (the surveyor) as to the statements he made in his reports, if they were all as vague as this one seemed to be. It was true that a watercourse ran beneath the bank, but the hedge was left by the previous surveyor in a perpen- dicular state. Mr Miller thought that before making the report, the Surveyor ought to have seen for himself, and not stated what was untrue. The giving way of the bank was not the fault of the previous surveyor; the soil was not a rocky one, but, on the contrary, soft and liable to slip, as there was nothing solid about it. He repeated that the present obstruction was not the fault of the late surveyor. Mr Powell thought the previous speaker had mis- understood the report before the Council. The Sur- veyor (Mr Ladd) stated in his report that the tenant had informed him so and so. As a matter of fact Mr Miller and Mr Ladd were agreed. The Mayor suggested that the report should be again read. The Town Clerk did so—as far as it referred to the bank falling down into the road and causing an ob- struction. The Surveyor said that he was of opinion that, what- ever his predecessor had done, that it had not in any way damaged this hedge. The rain had washed away the toil. Mr Morison moved that a committee from Pembroke Ward should visit the place. If one of these broken down hedges was repaired, three or four would have to be done. He moved as already stated, and that such committee from Pembroke Ward should report regarding the matter. Mr Powell said there was no doubt but that the tenant had to do the work. Mr Morison again mentioned his proposition. Mr E. Thomas seconded it, and added that the com- mittee should have power to take steps in the matter. Mr Tracey said that the late Surveyor did lower the road considerably. The Mayor—In that case, we shall have to make it good. The subject was referred to a committee. Mr Sketch asked whether any reply had been received from the War Department respecting the piece of road at the top of High-street. The Surveyor—N o, I have not received any reply. I have, however, received permission from the tenant. The Mayor—I don't think there was anything said to the Engineer about that. The SurveyGr Oh, yes there was, a deputation waited on him. The Mayor—I will make some enquiries about this. The next bussiness was, a motion down on the notice paper, as Mr E. Thomas's. A Mr E. Thomas said that for some considerable time he had been very anxious to see some of the debt on the town hall, &c paid off. For some years the sum of £ 20 had been paid into the savings bank, and now over £ 200 stood in the name of the Corporation—which sum was designed for the purpose of paying off the said debt. He moved, therefore, that notice should be given to the savings bank authorities to hold themselves in readiness to pay that £ 200 whenever such a sum was required. The mortgage, it appeared, was granted to the late Mr Mr Robert Jones, and not as stated in the notice to Mrs Locke. That lady was only acting under the order of the Court of Chancery. He believed that notice had been given to her, that the mortgage would be paid off at the end of six months, and there only remained some three months before this time would expire. He (the speaker) was anxious on more grounds than one to see the debt paid off, and he thought it would be economy to do so. The treasurer was quite prepared, whenever the representatives of the late Mr Robert Jones were ready, to advance £100 to complete the amount required to pay off the mortgage. For the purpose of saving as much money as possible he begged to propose that notice should be given to the Pembroke Savings Bank to have the money paid in on this account in readiness. He pressed his motion on the ground that the money would be required in three months, and the matter might be overlooked. Mr Beddoe remarked upon the fact that the notice stated that the mortgage was Mrs Locke's, whereas this was not the case. He was quite certain that whenever the Council was prepared to pay off the debt, there would be nothing thrown in the way of such a consuma- tion. And he might say that the borough rates would be lightened a little perhaps. He asked that when the money was paid the cheque should be drawn out in favour of the executors of the late Mr Robert Jones. The Town Clerk explained that he had always heard the mortgage talked about as Mrs Locke's. Mr Morison—Who is the receiver of the estate ? We must see that the money is paid to the right person. Mr E. Thomas-There is no doubt about that, Mr Morrison. Mr Alderman Jones seconded the proposition which had been made by Mr E. Thomas. Mr E Thomas remarked that perhaps Mr Beddoe, was the only interested councillor, in this matter. Mr Beddoe said that the money belonged to his son- not to himself. Mr Alderman Jenkins asked a question, and Mr E. Thomas in reply said that there would be no further demands The treasurer would advance the money stated without any charge. The Mayor—We cannot keep the thing going on for ever. Mr Powell pointed out that the amount of the mort- gage was X480, so that there would be a greater defi- ciency than hnd been imagined. MrE. Thomas said he did not pretend to be exactly right, Mr Alderman Jenkins proposed that the Estate Com- mittee should enquire into this matter and report thereon. Mr Powell seconded this proposition. Mr E. Thomas withdrew his motion. The matter was accordingly referred to the Estate Committe, the Mayor expressing a hope that the amounts would be stated properly. The next business on the agenda paper was a motion in the name of Mr Williams (ex-mayor),—that a Col- lector cf Rates should be appointed. The ex- Mayor As the Collectors, will continue in office until February, and as the subject is one of very great importance, one requiring full discussion, I beg to move that it be adjourned until another day. I have no doubt but that Mr Councillor E. Thomas will con- sent to this; I see he has an amendment to my proposi- tion. Mr E. Thomas consented and the discussion of the subject was accordingly adjourned. Mr Davies had given notice of a motion that ap- plication be made to the Secretary of State to grant an order, for the sale of the Commons, to the rear of the town of Pembroke, and that the proceeds of the sale be applied towards bringing the water into the town of Pembroke Dock, the Corporation, to reserve a cart-road along the back of the town." Mr Davies expressed himself as rather inclined to postpone this matter. He did not wish to press any man unduly, and he did not wish to take away any of the rights of the freemen (hear, hear.) He hai got plenty of water. When the council heard a report which would be read to them, it would be for the council to decide. Would any councillor prove that one free- man or any other man got one penny out of the land ? The Town Clerk remarked that freemen had horses, cattle, &c., grazing on the Commons. Mr Davies said that he had it from the very best authority that the council could do as they chose with the land. As for the freemen grazing horses, or cattle, or sheep, or donkeys (laugb ter) -or what not, that was all nonsense. Any man could put his horse on the Commons. If the selling of the Commons would enhance the value of the borough fund, he was of opinion that they should be sold. The gentleman to whom he wrote on the matter was a legal authority, a personal friend of his,—and he (the speaker) put all about grazing of horses and cattle, &c., before him, and he had received the answer he had stated. Was there a freeman present who received a farthing from the land ? He asked also if the council considered it wise to sell the land. Did the council not think that such a proceeding would be for the improvement of the town of Pembroke, and did the council not think that to sell the land would be beneficial to the borough of Pem- broke P The ex-Mayor was about to address the council, The ex- M ayor was about to when Mr Davies interrupted, saying that he was not mixed up with the sending of the circular which had been referred to by Mr Sketch. He might say, however, that as regards swearing, councillors heard that. Did they not? Several voices-Ob, yes. Mr Sketch rose to address the council, but was over- ruled by the Mayor, who said that he could not allow personalities. The council would please pass on to business. He believed Mr Williams was about to address the council when he was disturbed. The ex-Mayor-If the question is to be adjourned, then let it be adjourned. Mr Davies-These things must be well ventilated. Mr Alderman Hughes rose to second the proposition, which he understood Mr Davies to make, that the ques- tion should be adjourned. He admitted, however, that during the delivery of Mr Davies's speech, he saw some desponding looks on the faces of certain of those present. He hoped, however, that the ventilation of the question would rouse them to activity, and he hoped also that the ratepayers would not be called upon to repair various waterfalls, conduits or leats. He expressed himself in favour of Mr Davies's motion, because, if it did no other good, the Common might be appropriated to some beneficial use, might be made into a place of recreation for the people. Mr Alderman Hughes described the state of the Common, as it ap- peared to him when he went" round" with the sanitary committee, and concluded by again seconding the proposition that the question should be adjourned. Mr Phillips was about to speak, when Mr Reynolds proposed that the Council should not at the present time further consider the question. Mr Phillips said that he was merely to remark that observations had been made which might be interpreted that he induced Mr Sketch to bring the matter of the circular before the Council. Voices —No, not at all. Mr Phillips thereupon resumed his seat, and business was proceeded with, the motion of Mr Davies's having been formally adjourned. Mr Alderman Jones brought under the notice of the Council the very inadequate postal communication which at present obtained between the towns of Pem- broke and Pembroke Dock, and also the inadequate postal communication which obtained between Pembroke and Ireland. He mentioned the long time which it took to get a reply to a letter from Pembroke to Pembroke Dock, and having stated this grievance, he proceeded to point out a remedy, which could be brought about by a memorial sent to the Postmaster-General, requesting that two special foot messengers should be put on. If these messsengers were to start in the morning and in the afternoon at the same time, the one from Pembroke and the other from Pembroke Dock, meet half-way and exchange bags, both deliveries would thus be caught. In the morning the messengers would have to start at seven and in the afternoon about two o'clock. The cost would only, he believed, be about 15s per week, and it was supposed that this outlay would be more than recouped to the post-office authorities by the increased amount of correspondence that would take place between the two towns. This perhaps would not be seen on the first blush of the matter, but he would suggest that a memorial should be sent, embodying these views to the Postmaster. General. With reference to the postal communication between the towns of Pem- broke and Pembroke Dock, he would also like clauses inserted in the memorial. If a letter was posted at Pembroke for the south of Ireland at present, it went to London and back to Holyhead, unless specially addressed via Waterford. He would propose that the Irish letters from Pembroke should be put into the Irish box at Pembroke Dock, and that they should be taken out at six o'clock. He would also mention one other matter, and that was the deficient postal com- munication between Pembroke borough and the Castle- martin district. If a letter at present was posted after the dispatch of the afternoon mail on the 8th, it would not be delivered until the 10th. In fact a letter could be sent to London, and a reply got, before a letter by post could be got to its destination just outside Pem- broke. All these inconveniences, he thought, ought to be laid before the Postmaster-General. Some doubts were expressed as to whether the cost of the messengers spoken of, would not be greater than that mentioned by Mr Alderman Jones. Mr Alderman Jones mentioned that the messengers would only be required to make two journeys per day. Mr Alderman Jenkins bore testimony to the great delay caused by the deficient postal communications mentioned by the previous speaker, but he was of opinion that, as a piece of policy, it would be well not to re- commend what should be done to remedy the disadvan- tages, but merely, in the memorial, to state the disadvantages they at present laboured under. When anything was pointed out to those Government officials. although the plan was the most plausible one, they generally found another. He proposed that the memorial should merely state the disadvantages and pray:for their removal. Upon these grounds he would be glad to second the proposition that a memorial be sent. Mr Nicholson said that either the County or the Borough Member might be asked to take the matter up. Mr Morison proposed that a deputation should wait on the Inspector of Post-Offices, who was at present in the district. The Mayor said he was very glad to support the motion He was in the Post-office that day, and the Post-master rather pooh-poohed the matter when he (the speaker) referred to special messengers. He spoke about the messenger from Pembroke and the one from Pembroke Dock, 11 and told the Post-master that this could be done for a trifling cost. The Post-master told him that there were only about ten letters per day ex- changed between the towns of Pembroke and Pembroke Dock, and this, of course, would not pay 15s per week, The Postmaster did not seem to see his way. Mr Powell gave his experience of the inadequate postal communications, saying that he had frequently to send letters by special foot messengers, in order to catch the post for the South of Ireland. Mr Phillips addressed the Council on the matter, after which Mr Alderman Jones proposed that the Mayor, the ex-mayor, Alderman Jenkins, and Mr Morison, should be, along with himself, the committee who would draw up a memorial to the Postmaster General. This was agreed to. The Town Clerk read a letter from the Chief Con- stable, in which that officer thanked the Council for taking a kind view" of the matter of Sergt. Irving's pay. He stated also that he was quite aware that Irving, having to pay a high rent, laboured under great disadvantages, compared with other sergeants, who were junior to him in the service. Mr Alderman Jenkins thought there had been some misunderstanding on the part of the Chief Constable with regard to this matter. He (the speaker) did not understand that the Council granted the increase, but only that they recommended it. The Town Clerk said that the only order in the book, was that the Council recommended to the Chief Con- stable that Sertft. Irving's application should be granted. He sent a copy of Irving's application and the order of the Council to the Chief Constable. Mr Alderman Jenkins, said the Council only recom- mended, that Irvings' application should be received. The Chief Constable however wrote as if the Council was to pay the increase of salary, which they recom- mended to take the form of house rent. The Town Clerk again read the order of the Council. The ex-Mayor remarked that the Council only re- commended the application. Mr Davies said that the Chief Constable had mis- understood the letter. Mr Nicholson reminded the Council that this was not the first time an application had been made tor an in- crease of pay. It was stated on the previous occasion that Sergeant Irving was at a great disadvantage, as he had to pay for house rent while other Sergeants lived at the police station. The reply from the Chief Con- stable at that time was, that he could not accede to the request. On the present occasion, he understood that when the application was made for the house rent of £10, the Council resolved that this £ 10 should be given to Sergeant Irving, for the expense he was at for the accommodation of the public. As he provided an office, Mr Nicholson thought that it was unfair to make h\m pay the rent. In fact, Mr Nicholson, said he was of opinion that the Council would be doing an injustice to the Sergeant in the position in which he was placed if they did not give him the money. The Mayor said that no doubt from what was said at the council meeting. Major Stokes was under the im- pression that the council were to increase Sergeant Irving's pay He (the Mayor) thought as much. There was a proposal made, be did not know if it was made by Mr Davies, that the £10 received out of the county rate, for rent, should be applied to pay the house rent of Sergeant Irving. There was no use in beating about the bush in this manner. Mr Davies proposed that the L10 house rent should be granted to Sergeant Irving, and that it should be paid by the £ 10 which was paid by the county as rent for the Court House. He should be very pleased to see this carried out; and he would also propose that a suitable house should be selected, at a fair rent, in the town of Pembroke-Dock, and that Sergeant Irving should live in the house so selected, setting apart one room for an office. A house could be had for £ 14 per annum or less, and a notice board could be put up stating that it was the police station, so that everybody might know where that place was. Mr Alderman Hughes approved of this suggestion. He did not see why Sergt. Irving should pay rent for the public accommodation. Mr Hughes was also of opinion that there ought to be some place in Pembroke- Dock where a policeman could be found (hear, hear.) After some further conversation, Mr Davies said that he thought that the Estate Com- mittee should be instructed to look out for a house. Mr Nicholson was of opinion that the house at present occupied by Sergt. Irving was quite a suitable onp. Mr Alderman Haines bore his testimony to the good character of Sergeant Irving, and added that the officer named was as deserving a man as they could find. Mr Davies said that he was told there was a house in Albion-square which was an exceedingly suitable one. He had been also told that this house could be bought very cheaply. If the Corporation thought this latter course a wise one, it might be acted upon with advan- tage. He proposed that the Estate Committee should enquire into the matter and report thereon. The Mayor approved of the idea of purchasing the property, which would be capitalizing money as it were. It was ultimately ordered that the Estate Committee should inquire into the matter, and report. The business of the Urban Sanitary Authority was next proceeded with. A letter from the Clerk of the School Board was read to the meeting. The Authority was asked to look after the sanitary condition of the private adventure schools in the borough (through the Inspector). Mr Morison thought that the Inspector of Nuisances had already quite enough to do. Mr Alderman Jenkins thought that the Clerk or Secretary of the School Board should do the worc. The Mayor said he was of opinion that the Clerk of the School Board was well qualified to do the work himself. Mr E Thomas agreed with this view. Mr Morison moved that the letter should be acknow- ledged, but that the Council should make no order in the matter. Mr Alderman Jenkins seconded the proposition. The Council agreed to the proposal. An application was read from William Jones, of 12, (iueen-street, Pembroke Dock, for permission to engage the business of a tallow chandler after eleven o'clock nt night, and otherwise subject to the usual restrictions. Mr Reynolds asked the Surveyor if his attention had been called to this. The Surveyor replied that his attention had been called. Mr Reynolds then moved that permission should be granted. Mr E. Thomas seconded the proposition. Mr Davies regretted that no member of the council opposed this, for the smells in that street already were bad enough, without increasing them. Mr Davies commented upon the obnoxious nature of the smells which arose from this business, and said that he knew the young man (the applicant) had to get a living. He believed the applicant was a very respectable young man He had to point out, however, to the Council the posi- tion of the premises and the unbearable character of the smells already in that street. The smell coming from such a place when tallow was being melted down was perfectly horrible, and he hoped the Council would oppose the application. Mr Nicholson did not think that there could be any objection to granting the permission prayed for, if the work was to be carried on, after eleven o'clock at night and before five o'clock in the morning. The Council had not heard of any nuisance arising from Mr Rhodes' premises, and he did not not know any other except Mr M iller, and the Council had never heard that he was a nuisance to the neighbourhood. Mr Reynolds said that he enquired of a patient living in Queen Street, whether the smell of the melting of tallow in that street was at all obnoxious to her, and she replied no. For this reason if, for no other, he had seconded the proposition that Mr Wm Jones, should be granted the permission he asked. Mr Sketch, thought it was only fair to grant the per- mission asked, since there was one place of the kind already. Mr E. Thomas remarked that he believed there was a memorial in existence signed by the inhabitants of the street in question, stating, that they had no objection to the granting of the application. Mr Davies said that if the man stuck to the times of eleven o'clock and five, it would not be so bad. He hardly thought, however, this would be done always. He did not wish to deal unfairly with this applicant, but he strongly impressed upon the Council that he was looking forward to the time when no such establishment would be allowed in a locality like that named. He ridiculed the idea that Dr Reynolds patient felt no bad smell from the melting down of tallow. The Mayor-We have bad enough about this. Mr Davies proposed that the application should not be granted, unless the business was to be carried on, within the hours he had named. Several Councillors-Of course it will be. Mr Alderman Hughes reminded the Council that if the business was in any way obnoxious, the Sanitary Inspector would report tnereon. -tie tnougnt tanow chandlers should be tolerated in the same way, as butchers were tolerated (laughter.) The application was granted. The ex-Mayor asked that the market bye-laws should now be gone into. The Town Clerk read the recommendation which accompanied the bye-laws submitted for the approval of the Council. The ex-Mayor said that he had no doubt but that the bye-laws now before the Council had been carefully considered by all present. He did not think it was necessary to take up every particular section and go through them that way. If any clause was objection- able to the Council, or to an individual member of the Council, the same might be discussed. As regarded the lighting of the new market, this was discussed by the committee. He thought it was only fair to Mr Council- lor Phillips to state that he objected to the lighting of the new market with gas, simply on the ground of expense. It wafe, however, shown at the Committee meeting that it was a matter almost of necessity to light the market with gas. He had no doubt but that the lighting of the market with gas would contribute to the letting of the stalls. The Committee were almost unanimous in the matter, and the probable cost would be about £ 50. The Mayor said that he did not see the necessity for the gas, for he knew very well that the market would be cleared out about four o'clock on a Saturday after- noon. Gas was not required in the Pembroke Dock market, and he did not see why it was required'in the Pembroke new market. There Was no government in the world which would impose on men things they did not want. When it was found necessary to light the market with gas this would be done. Mr Miller remarked that excepting on Christmas market-day, no gas was required. Mr Morison reminded the Council that the old Market house was lighted by gas. Mr Miller denied this. It was, however, explained that there were a few lights in a particular part of the market. Mr Powell said that this was a matter of Y,50 in cost, and he was certain that the lighting up of the market with gas would influence the letting of the stalls to the extent of £ 5, £ 8, or 1; 10, or perhaps even more. A voice -Will you guarantee this ? I Mr Powell, guaranteed this according to the best of his ability as a calculator. With regard to the letting of the market house, he supposed the Council would give the tenant permission to hold perhaps public meetings, shows, &c, there. A Voice-No, I should not do so. Mr Powell believed that any extra cost involved in lighting the market with gas would be recouped, and would really pay itself. Mr Phillips proposed that the market house should not be lighted with gas. Mr E. Thomas seconded this proposition. it was also proposed and seconded that the market house should be lighted with gas. Mr Alderman Jenkins objected to any more expense being incurred, as the market house would cost very nearly L2000. If the market did really pay, then it could be lighted with gos. The ex-Mayor would he sorry to let a statement like this pass unnoticed. There had not been any extravagant expenditure in the market house and it would not cost £ 2000. Probably £ 50 would be exceeded over the es- timated contract. As to whether the market would pay or not he was perfectly willing to bide the verdict of time. He saw that the resolution would not be carried and he advised Mr Powell (the proposer), that he should not press it. Mr Powell also saw that the resolution would not be carried, but thought it his duty to press it. He did not believe that would cost 150 to light the new market- house with gas. Mr Beddoe thought this matter had better be deferred for twelvemonths. He had not the slightest hesitation in saying that the new market would pay and the gas could be put in afterwards. After some further discussion the two proposals were put to the meeting, when twelve voted that the market- house should not be lighted with gas, and six voted for the gas. The Mayor said that the gas could be easily put in afterwards. The market-house bye-laws and the slaughter.house bye laws caused some desultory conversation. A few alterations were made, and ultimately the bye-laws were adopted, subject to the revision of the committee, as there appeared to be a number of clerical and other errors in them as they at present stood. The ex-Mayor gave notice that at the next meeting he would move that a collector of tolls and dues of the Pembroke Market should be appointed at a salary of X25 per annum. Mr Alderman Jenkins gave notice of a motion that the tolls should be let by tender. On the motion of Mr Powell, seconded by Mr Alder- man Hughes, it was agreed that application should be made to the Inland Revenue Office, in London, for a return of the bushels of malt brewed by certain parties who had refused the same The salary of the person in charge of the water- works was increased to J620 per annum. The Local Government Board sent a letter from tho Admiralty, enclosing a report from the officer in charge of the works at Pembroke Dockyard, on the supply of water to the town, and on the sanitary state of Pembroke Dock. It was stated in this document that water, in the dry season, was carted and sold in the streets of Pembroke Dock at one penny per gallon, and the Council was asked by the Local Government Board to provide for a sufficient water supply. It was also re- ported by the Government official under the control of the Admiralty at Pembroke Dock, that the majority of the inhabitants of that town stored water in iron tanks, the water supply appeared to be sufficient in the winter, but in the summer, the report stated that the supply often fell considerably short of the demand. The rain water, it was pointed out, was liable to frequent pollution, and, in many instances, it was liable to become mixed with surface drainage. The constant risk from fire, it was also stated, was very great. It was narrated in the document that about seventeen years ago, the inhabitants became aroused, and when deliberating as to how they should obtain a better water supply, abundant rain fell, and the project was immediately abandoned. The members of the Town Council had from time to time discussed the matter, but they had done nothing further. A description of the general sanitary con- dition of the town was then given. The con- dition and position of water-closets and cess-pools was commented upon, and the number of private slaughter-houses in the town was pointed out. Mr Morison moved that the report should be referred to the Surveyor and the Medical Officer. Mr Reynolds seconded, saying he was prepared to pay except in a few cases, the expenses of having the water analysed in each of the tanks. Mr Alderman Hughes said that he was in a position to prove that there was a sufficient water supply. He would read to the Council the following figures, which showed the daily average supply of water from wells: — Conduits, &c.Forkland, 1,440 gallons; South Park- street, 540 gallons; Cambrian, 270 gallons; Bellvue, 450 gallons: Pembroke Road, 540 gallons; Imble- street, 360 gallons Many's Buildings, 900 gallons; Lower Pennan, 450 gallons making a total, daily supply, of 4.950 gallons. He objected to the great neglect, which was evidently attributed to this town council, and he maintained that no men could have been more energetic in providing and catering for the public than this Town Council. Mr Hughes went on to speak of certain inaccuracies in the report and denied that water had been sold at Id per gallon. He declared his belief that there was no danger from fire through want of water, and added that the Council was bound to contradict certain statements in the report. In conclusion he stated that he supported the resolution which had been proposed with reference to this matter. Mr Davies took an opposite view. He maintained that the contents of the report were perfectly accurate with the exception of one paragraph, where it was stated that there were eight slaughter-houses in the town, There were really fourteen and the Surveyor would bear out what he said. Mr Alderman Hughes commented upon the Govern- ment drainage at the foot of Pembroke-street. Mr Nicholson asked on what grounds and by whose authority the report was made. After some further conversation the report was referred, as had been proposed. Some other business, of no great public interest, was transacted, and the Council adjourned.

The Academy says that another article by Mr Glad- stone will appear in the December number of the Contemporary Revietv. The same number will contain articles by Cardinal Manning, Professor Max Miiller, Mr Francis Galton, and Sir John Lubbock. THE DENBIGH REEEDOS DISPUTE.-The awards of Dr Stephens, Q.C., and Dr Deane, Q.C., arbitrators respectively for the Bishop of St. Asaph and the Building Committee of Denbigh New Church, in the long-pending reredos dispute, were announced on Friday. It had been anticipated that Dr Stephens, who previously advised the Bishop this reredos was illegal, would again decide against it; but the pro- reredos party fully believed Dr Dean's opinion would be favourable. A sensation was, therefore, created by both arbitrators pronouncing the reredos illegal. The awards set forth that the cross by itself, or the Savour is represented as extended upon the cross, they become illegal, because such representation is liable to lead to superstition, and teach pions worshippers to adore an image. The Denbigh reredos they considered especially upon this objection, because at the foot of the cross are women adoring the dying Saviour. This was calculated to lead to similar adoration on the part of worshippers. They, therefore, agree in pronouncing the central com- partment of the reredos illegal. The committee will accept this decision, and either remove the whole reredos, which cost j6500 and is richly sculptured, or simply the central compartment. The cost of the arbitration is personally borne by the Bishop and com- mittee. The latter also lose £ 1,000, promised by Mr Hesketb, of Gwrych Castle, on condition that the reredos remained intact. The Pall Mall Gazette says the Bishop of London's sensible and straightforward letter in Saturday's Timet has, at all events, taught Dr. Parker that, before draw- ing inferences from a bishop's inaction, he had better ascertain whether he has any power t3 act. Dr Parker had made much of the fact that a certain clergyman is frequently found in Nonconformist pulpits without the Bishop of London showing his displeasure in any public way. It turns out that the clergyman in question is not under the Bishop's jurisdiction, and consequently that his eccentric appearances in Dissenting chapels are not the Bishop's affair. Dr Parker is now much exer- cised at the horrible inhumanity of the Bishop in being ready to take proceedings against a clergyman who knowingly breaks the law which he has contracted to obey. This readiness Dr Parker describes as a deter- mination to take away the bread of a Christian minister who may venture by an official act to recognize the good standing of any Christian communion other than his own." It does not seem to have occurred to Dr Parker that a clergyman's official" acts ought to be governed by the laws of the religious communion in which he holds office. Clergymen who wish to preach in Nonconformist pulpits have the world before them, on the simple condition of dissociating themselves from the Church which seeks to control their Christian liberty. As to the spoiling of their goods which Dr Parker talks of, we think we may assure them that all that they have of their own they will be allowed to keep. The only goods of which they will be despoiled will be the income which they hold on condition of obeying certain regulations, of which not to preach in Nonconformist pulpits happens to be one. The only persons who have any claim upon our compassion in the I matter are the congregation for whom Mr Freemantle I has vainly tried to engage Dr Parker's services. There is some talk of a fresh claimant turning up in high life. A certain oaptain in the Royal Navy was divorsed from his nobly-born wife in the last year of last century. The captain died six years later, and his brother thereupon became heir to a peerage, which be subsequently inherited, and which is now enjoyed by his grandson. But somebody says that after his divorce the captain R.N. married again and had children, whose descendants ought to have the peerage and the estates. The immaculate Burke is absolutely silent on the point of this second marriage and indeed there seems some difficulty in proving it, for a very large reward is offered for a copy of the marriage certificate. Mr Disraeli is said to be contemplating one of those extraordinary surprises in which his soul delights- namely, the promotion of somebody over the head of the Solicitor-General. Of course in the natural order of things Sir John Holker would be Attorney-General now that that post is vacant; but it is understood that the Prime Minister has resolved that Sir John shall remain where he is, and that the new man shall be pitchforked into the Attorney-Generalship. The Prime Minister could do nothing worse than this-it would be simply intolerable, and would, I am sure, lead to a very strong expression of opinion on the part of the bar, the members of which are gentlemen first and politici ns atterwards.- World. Ex-Colonel Valentine Baker, says the World, has received from her Majesty's Treasury the "little bill" on account of the Government prosecution. Mr Baker must have been as astonished as most readers of this paragraph will be when he glanced at the total, and saw that the costs of the trial, so far as he is concerned, amounted to X680. Equally surprised was be doubt- less, upon looking into the details of the account, to find that he was charged with the sum paid to the detectives for watching him when he was on bail, and with the expense incurred by the police in their in- quiries concerning Miss Dickinson. I am presuming, of course, that Mr Baker saw the original document, because when the bill left the taxing-master the £ 6S0" read £ 180," that official having actually dis- allowed E500 of the costs I bear, says the World, that, with a view to future possibilities, the Boyton Life-dress Company have received more orders than they will be able to fulfil before the approaching deluge. You can't get a Noah's Ark at the toy-shops for love or money. A new hotel is being built on Mount Ararat, and the Great Eastern has been got ready to convey people there. Joking apart, it is a fact that a man appeared at covert-side with a life collar," uninflated, rolled up and strapped under his girths with his woollen gloves. He said he did not want to meet with the fate of the poor fellow in Devon, who fell into the Tamar and was drowned and that if hounds ran near the floods, he should blow out his collor and feel safe. They have had water steeple- chases at Oxford with lots of sinks." A TIDAL W AVE. G. S. P." writes to the Timis as follows :—An unusual phenomenon occurred at Bridg- water on Saturday morning about 10 minutes before 7. The tide had ebbed .about an hour, and the water in the river had fallen about 3ft., when the tide returned, and a tidal wave of extraordinary height came rolling up the river. All the large vessels were in the dock, but some 15 colliers were moored in the river. Almost all of these broke from their moorings, and were thrown against each other or against the two bridges, and all except one received some injury. Most of them were moored between the two bridges. Two of theee fouled the old iron bridge which connects the eastern and western portions of the town. Having been the second 'cast-iron bridge that was ever made, it had long been doubted whether it would stand against any sudden blow; but, though some of the subor- dinate parts were injured the main girders stood firm. The telescope bridge which connects the dock with the Bristol and Exeter Railway was less for- tunate. A collier fouled it and strained one of the cylinders on which it rests, so much that the projected part of the bridge cannot be withdrawn. The Parrett has long been celebrated for its bore or tidal wave, but this seldom rises more than 3ft. high. Ibis tidal wave is said to have been 10ft. high. I have known the tide return at Bridgewater once before, and it was then supposed to have been caused by a hurricane in the Bristol Channel; but, though there was a gale on Friday night in the Channel, it was of no great severity, and it ceased before the tidal wave reached Bridgewater, which is 13 miles, by the river. from the sea. When the Libson earthquake cccurred a tidal wave of great height poured in from the Atlantic upon all our western shores. We shall bear in a few days whether this tidal wave has been local or has occurred at other places. If it has, we must expect to bear of some volcanic disturbance to account for it."

PEMBROKE FARMERS CLUB. TO THE EDITOR OF THE WELSHMAN. SIR,—As I was not present at the meeting of this Club to reply to Mr Teasdale's remarks, you will perhaps oblige me by inserting this short letter. There seem to me to be strange inconsistencies between Mr Teasdale's speech and the awards given by himself and Mr Davies as judges of green crops. I don't know what course was adopted for measur- ing the roots—whether by the eye or by the yard- but if their visit to my place is a fair sample of the work they did, probably others besides myself have some cause to complain. Mr Teasdale says he saw some mangolds on my land weighing 50 lbs. each. I assure you I have not one root weighing more than 30 lbs. Mr Teasdale said he would not make any remarks about my swedes. Now, sir, Mr Roch, úf- Milton, who saw me take my swedes off the land, can bear me out when I state that I have swedes weighing 16 lbs. Perhaps the same process of judging that led Mr Teasdale to raise the weight of my mangolds from 30 lbs. up to 50 lbs., also led him to imagine that a 16 lb. swede could not weigh more than 5 lbs. or 6 lbs. Mr Teasdale says that after an absence of two days he went to see how his stock fared. Did he forget to go amongst the green crops, to see how the weeds thrived ? This appears to me to be an oversight, and I mention it now, because I am given to understand that Mr Teasdale has a most luxuriant growth of weeds this season. Yours very truly, ALEXANDER JERMIN. Kingswood, Nov. 16th, 1875.

HUNTING APPOINTMENTS. MR. POWELL'S FOXHOUNDS will meet on Tuesday, the 23rd inst., at Evelwen, and on Friday, the 26th inst., at Wenallt; each day at 10.30. THE VALE OF GWILI FOXHOUNDS will meet on Tues- day, the 23rd inst., at Plas-y-Wenalt, and on Friday, the 26th inst., at Glanrhydw; each day at 10.30. THE VALE OF TOWY AND CYNGHORDY FOXHOUNDS (joint meet) will meet on Tuesday, the 23rd inst., at Llan- fairarybryn Turnpike Gate, at 10.30. THE VALE OF Towy FOXHOUNDS will meet 011 Fri- day, the 26th inst., at the Feather's Inn, Llanwrda, at 10.30. THE TIVYSIDE FOXHOUNDS will meet on Monday, the 22nd inst., at Crosswell, and on Thursday, the 25th inst., at Cenarth each day at 10.30. THE PENLLEGARE FOXHOUNDS will meet on Monday, the 22nd inst., at Clydach Cross Roads, and on Thursday, the 25th inst., at Llanon Village each day at 10.30. THE PEMBROKESHIRE FOXHOUNDS will meet on Wed- nesday, the 24th inst., at Solva, at 10.30. THE SOUTH PEMBROKESHIRE FOXHOUNDS will meet on Tuesday, the 23rd inst., at Lamphey, and on Friday, the 26th inst., at Cresswell Bridge each day at 11. MAJOR D. JONES'S HARRIERS will meet on Monday, the 22nd inst., at Llwyell Village; on Wednesday, the 24th inst., at Cefenpale, and on Friday, the 26th inst., at Gledrith each day at 10.30. MR. VAUGHAN PRYSE'S HARRIERS will meet on Mon- day, the 22nd inst., at Neaudd-fawr on Thursday, the 25th inst., at Llwynygroes, and on Saturday, the 27th inst., at Bryn Shop each day at 10. THE SCOTCHWELL HARRIERS (Admiral J. Lort Stokes') will meet on Tuesday, the 23rd inst., at Tier's Cross, and on Friday, the 26th inst., at Didwell Mountain, near Cuffern each day at 11.30. THE BRONWYDD BEAGLES will meet on Wednesday, the 24th inst., at Penhubir, at 11.

BIRTHS. MORRIS.—On the lltli inst., at King-street, in this town, the wife of W. H. Morris, Esq., solicitor, of a son. MARRIAGES. ARNOLD—SMALL.—On the 14th inst., at St. Thomas Church, Haverfordwest, by the Rev. W. Scott, Mr Henry Norman Arnold (compositor at the Haverfordwest Tele- graph), of North Crescent, to M&rtha Maria, second daughter of Mr John Small, of St. Thomas Green, Haver- fordwest. DAVIES—REES.—On the 17th inst. (by license), at Llan. ddewi-Aberarth, by the Rev. Henry Morgan, vicar of the Parish, Mr David Davies, groom, to Miss Hannah Rees, housemaid, both in the service of the Vicar for many years. JAMES JONES, On the 12th inst. (by license), at Gwernogle Chapel, by the Rev. T. G. Jones, Mr D. H. James, Beilibedw, Llanllwni, to Mary, second daughter of Mr Jones, Havodrwynos, Llanfihangel-Rhosycorn, in this county. MOP.GAN -JONES. -On the 17th inst., at Bethesda Baptist Chapel, Swansea, by the Rev. R. A. Jones, Mr Thomas Morgan, merchant, of this town, to Anne, fourth daughter of Mr Thomas Jones, Priory Foundry, in this town. ROBERTS—GEORGE—On.the 16th inst., at the Registrar's Office, Llandilo, Mr Evan Roberts, commission agent, Llandilo, to Miss Anne George, Blaenyresker, Talley. TERRY—ROBERTS.—On the 2nd inst., at St. Peter's Church, in this town, by the Rev. Latimer M. Jones, vicar, Mr Geo. Terry, of this town, to Mary Ann, eldest daughter of Mr John Lewis, Smith's Arms, Laugharne. DEATHS. CONSTABLE.—On the 14th inst., Harriet, wife of George Constable, Esq., Sefton House, Arundel, Sussex, in her 36th year. WILLIAMS.—On the 12th inst., at Pendre, Cardigan, John Herbert, infant son of Mr Herbert Williams, Inland Revenue, aged 2 years.