The Welshman

I CHARGE OF MANSLAUGHTER AT PEMBROKE- DOCK. At the Pembroke-Douk Borough Polioe Court on the 14th inst, before Mi A. McColl (mayor), Mr S. B. Sketch, Mr J. Hutchings, Mr W. Mason, Mr S. R. Allen, and Mr H. W. Leach, the police superintendent, Mr William Evans, charged John Wood. a private in the Royal Northern Reserves Regiment, now stationed at Pembroke-Donk, with manslaughter by shooting a young man named Tucker. Mr W. H. O. M. Bryant prosecuted, and Mr H. A. Jones-Lloyd defended on behalf of the prisoner Wood. William George Jarrett, a booking clerk in the Great Western Railway Office at Pembroke-Dock, said be knew the deceased, Owen John Tucker, who was a parcel s clerk employed at Pembroke-Dock. On the 6th inst Tucker was in the parcels office-at a quarter-past two o'clock, and the prisoner came there in front of witness and deceased, cariying two r fles, which be put down in the corner. Tucker said to the prisoner, If you leave these here we will go bird shoiting." Witness went to a drawer to take out a pin, and there saw a cartridge. He bad one cartridge in his pocket, which deceased had given him in the morning. He held it up, and remarked to both men, Now is the time if you want to go sport- ing." Prisoner then remarked, Now is the time to oommit suicide," or Now is the time for me to commit suicide." Witness could not recollect which. He twice remarked to prisoner that the cartridge was alive, but handed it to prisoner, who then asked to see it. Prisoner looked at it top and bottom, and Tucker said something about shooting a cow. Prisoner made no reply, and Tucker then said, I'll stand if you'll put it in the rifle." Prisoner said, "You will?" Tucker said, 11 Yes." Wood then picked up the rifie, held it a little raised under his arm in a horizontal position, and put the cartridge in. It went off immediately. Witness could not say whether prisoner closed the breach or not. Tucker, at this time, was standing inside the counter straight in front of prisoner. There was here an open. ing in the counter, and Tucker fell there as soon as the rifle went off. Witness immtdiaMy ran out for assist. ance without making any remark, and met a porter named Morris. Witness went for Dr. Sanders. The two cartridges now produced were similar to the one he had in the drawer and in his pocket. Dr. Sanders came over at once, and examined the deoeased. Prisoner appeared to he perfectly sober, and was still in the parcels office. He said nothing to witness. Cross-examined by Mr H. A. Jones-Lloyd: The prisoner went into the parcels room before me. I followed him, and went inside the counter. I am sure that I took a cartridge from my pocket. I said the cartridge was alive. The deceased told me it was alive when I handsd the cartridge to prisoner. We were still inside, and piisoner outside, the counter. I told him the second time it was alive, when be remarked about suicide. I had no time to oall out to the prisoner afier he put in the cartridge before it went off. Prisoner did not ask if it was a dummy, or if it was loose. Tucker made two offers to be fired at. Prisoner said the first time, "You will ? I was to the right of prisoner when he put the cartridge in. I think prisoner's hand was too high to be on the trigger. To the Benoh The affair happened about five minutes after prisoner entered the parcels office. He examined the cartridge, but I cannotjsay he attempted to pull off the top of it. Tucker was daring in fun. John Morris, of the G. W.R. Company at Pembroke- Dock, said he was four yarde from the parcels office door when he heard a report, and went in just as the last witness camo out. There he saw Tucker lying dead on the fL-or. Prisoner was there standing back against the counter. He saw nothing in prisoner's hands. Prisoner said nothing. Herbert John Emlyn Price, coroner, said that on the 7th inst. he held an inquest on the body. The prisoner there made depositions after being previeusly cautioned The name John Wood at the end of the depositions was in the prisoner's handwriting. Edward Argent Sanders, surgeon, Pembroke-Dock, said that on the 6th inst., about 2 15 p.m., he was called by Jarrett, the station clerk. He found Tucker lying on the floor, quite dead, with a bullet mark in his olothee. He made a post-mortem next day, and found a bullet had entered the chest and the second rib on the right. It went through the lung-the large blord-vessel, and then the spinal column, severing the spinal cord. Death was instantaneous. Witness saw prisoner Wood in the room, and asked for the rifli which was on the counter. Prisoner hsnded it over, saying "This is the r,fle." Tuoker was a man about 5ft. Sin. The white front produced with blood on it was the one which! ucker bad on. Cross-examined by Mr H. A Jones. Llo d: Prisoner's action and demeanour appeared as if the whole affair had been an accident. Supt. Evans gave evidence, and said that when be went to the station the stationmaster said in the presence of the prisoner, Take that man into custody for killing Tucker," and cautioned the prisoner. On seeing the rifle, be asked, "Who put the rifle there?" Prisoner said, "That is the one I did it with. I put it there." Witness took possession of the rifle and the spent cartridge. Returning back, he saw a drawer inside the counter partly open, and there exposed was the live cartridge produced, which he took cut and kept in his possession. On being cautioned and charged with causing the death of Tucker, prisoner made no reply. The prisoner, when asked if he had anything to say, said he = reserve his defence. The Bench retired to consult, and when they returned the Mayor gave the decision of the majority of the Bench-that prisoner be committed to take his trial at the next assizes, bail being allowed, prisoner in JE50 and two sureties of J625 each, or one in JMO. "LINSEED COMPOUND" cures Coughs and Colds, Asthma and Bronchitis. Of Chemists only. RUSSIA AND JAPAN.—WAR POSSIBLE.-The Washing- ton correspondent of the A etc York Journal says the Japanese minister, in an interview, declared that, while the Japanese authorities would dep!ore a war with Russia, nevertheless, the feeling among the manses might lead the Emperor to show Russia by fcroe that Japan would not allow an infringement of its rights under the Manchurian Convention. Those in authority in Japan had not the slightest idea of allowing their rights to be trampled npon. SENSATIONAL MURDER, OLD LADY STABBED TO THE HEART.—A sensational affair was investigated by the Manchester city coroner on Friday. Lavinia Farrar, a blind lady of independent means, 72 years of age, who in the pa;.t three weeks had lived alone, was found by Wm. E. Jones, the husband of a relative of the old lady, who, with the latter's doctor, Mr Yeats, forced an entranoe to the house, tying dead on the kitchen floor. She was paitly dressed her face was dark and bruised, her nose partly broken, and near her feet was an open blood-stained corn knife, whilst on the door were eight spots of blood The house was in order; there was no appearance of a struggle, and no wound was visible. The garments above the waist were stitched up at the neck, and the skirts were fastened tightly round the waist. There were no punctures in the clothes, but the old lady had been stabbed to the heart with the corn knife referred to, the wound being a quarter of an inch long. Two doctors and other witnesses agreed that owing to the manner the clothing was stitched on deceased could not have inflicted the wound which accounted for death. and furthermore could not have inflicted the wound whilst naked, as death would have I been so rapid that she could not have dressed or wiped her hands. The blood from the wound had only smeared one of her inner garments, and the doctors I could not find wherever the eight drops of blood came from. Other witnesses could throw no furthtr light on the matter, and the jury returned an open verdict. HOLLOWAY'S OINTMENT AND LILLS -Ncver at fault. In all irritations of the skin, sores, ulcers, burns, and enlargements of the glands, Holloway's Ointment presents a readv and easv m'3ans of cure, which never dissapoints the most favourable expect- ations. It manifests a peculiar in restraining inflammation, removing stagnation, cooling the heated blood and checking all acrimonious or unhealthy dis- charges. Whilst thus acting locally, the Pills are no less remarkable for their power in improving the general condition and habit of boiy, which renders the cures complete and permanent. Under the genial influence of these potent remedies the puny irfant becomes the robust child; the pale acd emaciated regain colour and rotundity, and the dyspeptic eats I freely without fear.

I CARMARTHENSHIRE. I FFYNONBEDR. PRESENTATION.—On Thursday afternoon, the 7th inst., a very enjoyable afternoon was spent by the members of the above church and Sunday School, when the ladies prepared abundantly for a tea. In the evening of the same day, a public meeting was held, the occasion being the presentation to their late respected pastor,, Mr Price, now of Laugharne, of about forty well-selected volumes of the most recent date, and by well-known authors. The pleasant task of presenting had been entrusted to Mr Samuel Evans, Pentrecelyn, the secre- tary of the church, who, in a very suitable speech while handing the books to Mr Price, of whom he spoke very highly, wished him and Mrs Price a pleasant career in their new sphere at Laugharne. Several gentlemen also spoke in the same strain, viz. Messrs. D. Jones, Pencaerau: D. Evans, Blaenpant; T. Herbert, Mydrim Howell Evans, Cefnonen; J. Evans, Dyffryn and John Davies, Glandwr. The Rev. Stephen Thomas, Blaenycoed, who acted as chairman, spoke highly of Mr Price as a neighbouring minister, who was always ready to help and to sympathise. The Rev. Evan Jones, Cana, endorsed the warm sentiments expressed, and stated that he was very pleased to be able to be present to witness such good feelings at a farewell meeting between church and minister. Great credit is due to Mr Gwyn Davies, Danygraig, who acted as the scretary of the testimonial.

I LLANSAWEL. I EISTEDDFOD. -This event took place at the Board School on Friday, the 7th inst., under the auspices of Shiloh Independent Chapel, and it was for the purpose of augmenting their Organ Fund. Right well did the result crown their success financially. The proceedings started at 5.30 p.m., when Mr C. F. Davies, J.P., Froodvale, accompanied by Miss Davies, took the chair, and Mr Thomas Davies, Tynycwm, acted as con- ductor. Mr C. F. Davios, in a few well-chosen words, explained the object of the meeting, etc., and following is the result of events :-Solo for children under ten, "Paid a'm gadael i "-Miss Lizzie Harries, Police Station. Recitation for children under thirteen, "Bedd y dyn tlawd "-Miss May Davies, Penlan. Contralto solo, "Deuwch adref, fy nhad "-Miss R. A. Davies, Tynycwm. Prize bag—Miss Evans, Cross Inn Cottage, Talley. Naming the greatest number of Welsh words -D. Davies, Pantranau. Duett, Beth, wyliedydd, am y nos," Messrs. Jones and Bevnon, Kidwelly. Recitation, "Y Bywyd-fad"—Miss Davies, Acheth. Quartette, "Myfanwy"—T. Davies, Esgerffordd, and Friends. Ear test—T. Evans, Abernant. Essay on "The Life of Daniel"—Mr W. Evans, Halfway. Glee party, "Heulwen Haf "-Divided between Carmel and Llansawel parties. Six questions from the Book of Philemon—John Jones, Rhydycymerau. Bass solo, Yr Ornest "—Mr J. Jons, Kidwelly. Reading Welsh —Oakley Leigh. Soprano solo, "NegesyBlodeuyn" —Miss S. Jones, Abergorlech. Male voice party- Rhydycymerau Party. Tenor solo, Yr Hen Gerddor -Mr W. Davies, Cwmamman Post-Office. Hymn for those over forty, Diniweidrwydd "-Mr John Williams, Edwinsford. Chief choral, "Deuwch ataf fi "-Four choirs entered, and sang in the following order: Abergorlech, Carmel, Crugybar, and Llansawel. The prize was awarded to Llansawel Choir, while the next in order would be Abergorlech. The proceedings lasted till nearly eleven o'clock. Mr Dunn Williams, G.T.S.C., Carmarthen, acted as adjudicator over the singing, and right well did he perform his duties-the conductor describing him as an automatic machine; no sooner had the last competitor sang, than he was ready with his adjudication. The Rev. Jenkin Jones, B.A., of the Sawel Academy, proved himself to be an able adjudicator on the essays, &c. Miss Davies, Froodvale, had her adjudication on the prize-bags read out by Mr Thomas, the schoolmaster. He suggested more meetings of this sort in future, in order to have more art in needlework, such as emblems of the "Ddraig Goch," or "Hir oes i'r hen iaith." Miss Evans, Castle Green, was accompanist, and it is very creditable for one so young to play in the manner she did. Mr Thomas, schoolmaster, was secretary, and Mr Ben Thomas, Marlais, treasurer. Besides making a surplus of £10 at this eisteddfod, Mr Thomas Davies, junior deacon of Shiloh, has collected from outside people X20. This ought to make the congregation at Shiloh to subscribe handsomely themselves, then they will be able to get an organ which will meet their wants at Shiloh.

UTOM I    -? — ;;Z 1;t B) I S Always I  ztn   -? ? a  ? II FiPSt at the Great Exhibitions of the ?! World, where, n'?-? exhibited, it :11 always receives the highest ?! award. j ?' i IFyPSfl in the Cocoa Markets of the World, I f where it is recognised as the Stan- f I, dard Cocoa, other brands being H tested by a comparison with it. I ? i  II First in the esteem of onnoisseurs on | account of its delicate aroma and fl its exquisite freshness on the ? palate. j ¡ ¡ M First in the opinion of all consumers, j 1/ who find from expsrience that I ? for nourishing and invigorating j j! properties it is unequalled. i\ v ?i ¡i! tttuaÁ II is Always First.   is Always FI"rst. I  I rTSao

PEMBROKESHIRE. KILGETTY, 'T" A PROLIFIC EWE.-The opening paragraph in the agricultural column of our last issue gave instances of the remarkable powers of sheep to propagate their species. Few can beat a remarkable ewe owned by Mr Evan Thomas, Penrath Farm, in this respect. This particular ewe has brought forth fifteen lambs in four years; and what is more remarkable still, with the ex- ception of four now rearing, everyone has gone to the market. This is a record hard to beat.

MILFORD HAVEN. DEATH OP MRS G. GRIFFITH.—Mrs Griffith, of Milford House, Milford Haven, died on Thursday night, 14th inst., after a protracted illness. Mrs Griffith, who was the wife of Dr George Griffith, J.P., originally belonged to Glamorgan, and came of a well-known Quaker family. The funeral, which was public, took place on Tuesday, at the Friends' Burial- ground. Much sympathy was shown with the family in their bereavement. I I LxN-um CATHARTICTTM PILLS" Purely Vegetable Agreeably Aperient. Of all Chemists.

NEWPORT (PEM.) I SUICIDE.—FEARED TO CUT HIS WIFE DOWN.—A Cardiff paper says: "A strange suicide has come to light in the village of Nevern, near Newport, Pem- brokeshire. On Tuesday afternoon a woman named Mary Thomas, 75 years of age, wife of John Thomas, Penwain, was sitting with her husband at tea at about j four o'clock, and as the man was going out to fetch firewood she asked him if he would be back by five o'clock, and he replied, I Before then.' Ae returned at twenty minutes to five, and on going into the outhouse with the wood he saw his wife hanging by a rope. He did not cut her down, but called assistance, and, strange to say, those called in, believing it was illegal to cut the body down before a policeman arrived, left deceased still hanging. A messenger was sent to Newport, about two miles away, for the policeman, but he had gone to Dinas, and it was near midnight before he could arrive on the scene and cut the woman down. No cause can be assigned for the woman's rash act." [Our contemporary cites the above tragic event as an example of woeful ignorance, but it is quite a common idea in the rural parts throughout South Wales that the body must not be touched in such cases till a policeman arrives. Examples showing the existence of this belief have occurred very near Carmarthen not so long ago].

I PEMBROKE. COUXTY V ILICE.—This court was held on Saturday, before Mr N. A. Roch, Colonel Goodeve, Mr W. Gibbs, Mr C. Mathiu-, and Mr A. McColl.—John Downie, of Pembroke, Inland Revenue officer, charged Joseph Morris, of Somerton, with carrying a gun without a licence. Defendant, who did not appear, was ordered to pay 17s. 6d., including costs.-John McVeigh, a private in the Royal Northern Reserves, stationed at Penally, was fined 8s., including costs, for being drunk and disorderly in Penally-road on the 7th inst.-Herbert Phillips, of Great Molleston, Narberth, was charged with not having a licence for a locomotive, which he denied. P.C. Thomas M. Thomas (Penally) said that on the 20th ult. he saw defendant between Penally and Holloway, on the highway, in charge of a locomotive propelled by steam. It was drawing a threshing machine, which defendant was removing from Penally Court, where he had been threshing. He was driving towards Gumfreston Farm. Witness also saw defendant threshing at Wedlock Farm. He stopped him on the highway, and, failing to find the County Council plate, asked him to shew the plate. Defendant said that the engine was not licensed or registered. He had not had a licence or registration plate attached to it. Fined 10s. and costs, 5.s. 6d.

I SAUfJDERSFOOT, PARISH CTOTTXCIL CONTEST.—The list of Parish Council candidates appeared on Saturday. Five have withdrawn since the meeting, but this is not sufficient to prevent a poll. There are still eight over the number required, or twenty-three in all. There is a mistaken notion about that the content will finally dispose of the drainage question, but nothing can now stop that coming to a head sooner or later. No section or group of the old Council is more responsible than the other for this. Every man ou it has voted for drainage over and over again. The difference is only in some of the details. Of the candidates twelve are old members, and on this drainage question they may be divided into two groups." Group 1—Messrs Harvey, Viel-f-rm.-in, Dawson, George, Brinn, and Evans. This party advocated a sewerage chamber at a cost of £ 80, or thereabouts. Group 2- Messrs W. and W. J. Beddoe, J. and W. Lawrence, R. Bowen, and W. Owen. This party is committed to a scheme which includes a new sewerage culvert at a cost of about X80. The other details of the schemes of both parties are practically the same, as both propose to lay down a new system of pipes, manholes, and fittings. This will cost some X200 to zC300 in addition. Again, the new candidates may be divided into two sections- one from the village, who have not so far declared their policy; the other section from the county part have a policy-that is. to save the rates. They are Messrs T. and J. Lewis, W. Waters, J. Howell, and W. Griffiths. So far, there has been little interest in the contest, except by the inhabitants of the "valley" above Bon- ville's Court Colliery, who are agitating for their road being done by the new Council, so as to be on all fours with the Sardis and Longstone districts. If the new Council can do this, it will be a feather in their caps. The poll will be on Tuesday, the 26th inst., at Saunders- foot School, from 12 to 8.

CARMARTHEN BOARD OF GUARDIANS. The usual fortnightly meeting of the Guardians of the Carmarthen Union wa-i held at the Workhouse, Carmarthen, on Saturday, the chairman (Mr D. L. Jones, Derlwyn) presidiog. There were also present: Miss Gwyn, St. Ishmael; Mrs R M. Thomas and Miss Hancocke, Carmarthen Mr David Davies and Mr John Griffiths, Abergwili i Mr Thomas Pugh, Abernant; Mr John Thomas, Conwil; Mr J. Rees John, Laugharne Parish Mr W. S. Morse, Llandawke Mr John Davies, Llanddarog Mr David Thomas, Llanfihangel- Abercowin; Mr Thomas Edmond and Mr Herbert Howells, Llacg=>ndeirne; Mr J T Williams, Llan- girining Mr Herbert Griffiths, Llangunnor Mr Evan Daniel, Llanllawddog; Mr David Davies, Llanpump- saint Mr G. B Evans, Llanstephan Mr John Phillips, Llanwinio: Mr D Evans, Merthvr; Mr John Anthony, Mvdrim Mr David Evans. Newchuroh Mr Thomns Howells and Mr J. S. Williams, Trelech; Mr J. P. Lewis, Mr Jonathan Phillips, Mr T. Thomas, and Rev. A. Fuller Mills, Carmarthen Rev. T. Jones, Llan- ddowrrr; together with the clerk (Mr R. Browne) and other cfficia18. Vote of Condolence. Rev. A. Fuller Mills referred to the death of one of the guardians. Mr Harries, Nantyrbebog, and moved a vote of condolence with Mrs Harries and family in the serious loss they had sustained, and that the Board place on record their sense of that loss. Rev. T. Jones seconded, saying he was sure they were all very sorry to hear of the sudden death of Mr Harries. He himself thought Mr Harries one of the most usefnl members of the Board. The vote was carried in silence. Resignation of the Workhouse Nurse. A letter was read from Miss Burnhill, the nurse at the Workhouse, stating that owing to the state of her health, which had been ailing for some time, she was unable to continue thA discharge of her duties, and she, therefore, resigned her post as nurse She said she had been in the service of the Board for 25 years next September. She enclosed a medical certificate from Dr Harri6s, which said that Miss Burnhill's health made it necessary for her own sake and that of her patients that she should retire from duty. Mrs R. M. Thomas said shll had seen a gooj deal of Miss Burnhill during the past six years, and had found her a most devoted servant of the Board. Miss Burnhill had never spared herself she had attended many serious cas°s with the greatest devotion. Miss Gwyn-Is she one of those who can claim super- annuation P The Clerk said he was not quite sure, but thought she was. On the medical certificate she probably would be. In answer to questions, be said that she would be entitled to 25.60ths of her salary. Mr Thomas Thomas said he understood the super- annuation money did not come out of the rates-it came cut of the Superannuation Fund. The Clerk said that wa« what it amounted to eventually; although the land was too small at present, such money was kept separately in the books, and ultimately it would come out of the fund. Mrs R. M. Thomas thought they should advertise for a qualified nurse. Such nurses were now being engaged in most Unions. The Clerk said he was under the impression that some orders had been issued with regard to having qualified nurses. If he had known the question was coming on, he would have looked them up. The discussion was deferred. The Post of Porter. j Mr Thomas Thomas gave notice notice that at the next meeting he would move that the post of Work- house porter be revived. He thought they should certainly have a porter. Miss Price's Pension. I Mr J. P. Lewis, referring to Miss Price, the matron's, pension, asked whether it was not in the power of the Local Government Board to add a few years on to the service of a retiring servant as affecting the pension. The Clerk-They have done it under certain circumstances. Mr J. P. Lewis thereupon gave notice that he would move that a few years be added to the service of Miss Price. The Appointment of Master, Matron, and Nurse. I The Clerk said he would pnqgest that a small com- mittee be aprc>^ 1 to c-n.^der and make selections from the applic-ilic.,n-c, ior the mastership. Mr J. P. Lewis asked if any examination was to be held to test the merits of the new master and matron. The Clerk-No; they must understand something of book-keeping, of course. The question regarding the examination was again put. The Clerk-What kind of examination for instance P Mr J. P. Lewis-I am only asking the question. The Clerk said it was at the decision of the Board whether there would be an examination or not. The Rev. T. Jones then moved the formation of a smail committee as suggested, and Mrs R. M. Thomas seconded. Mr Thomas Thomas-What about the men you ask to come down here ? Take the Bangor man for instance The Clerk said he took it they would adopt a plan similar to that followed at the Carmarthenshire In- firmary and other places, viz that of appointing a committee to select a few candidates to appear. The train fares of these were generally paid but it depended upon where they came from. The following committee was then appointed: The, Chairman and the Vice-chairman, the Carmarthen guardians, Mr John Phillips, Rev. T. Jones, and Mr J. S. Williams. It was decided that the committee should meet on the following Wednesday week at 2 o'clock in Mr Brown's office, that they should deal also with the applications for relieving officerehip in place of Mr Stephens, and for the nurse's vacancy- The discussion again came up as to having a qualified nurse, and Mr J. P. Lewis said that a qualified nurse would not do the bard work but would depute that to someone else, and would only superintend. He could prove it from enquiries which he had been making lately. Mrs R. M. Thomas said that was not her experience. It was ultimately decided to have a qualified nurse, and to advertise at oice so as to get the applications ready for the consideration of the committee. The Vacant Relieving-Oiffcership. The Clerk read corresoondence he had had with the Local Government Board with regard to the vacant post of relieving officer. The first communication was from the Lccal Government Board dated the 6th inst., stating that they had written to Mr Stephens for his statement, and on receiving it they would reply to the Guardians. On the same date the Clerk wrote to the Local Government Board saying he wished to advertise as soon as possible, and asking them to wire him as soon as they could do so. To this the Local Government Board replied stating the Guardians should defer any further action for the present. On the 14th March the Local Government Board wrote again, enclosing the copy of a letter they had sent to Mr Stephrns, asking him to pend them any information he might have to offer in his defence. The Board said it was contrary to their practice to sanction the dismissal of an officer without bearing what he had to say in his defence, and they would communicate with the Guardians as soon as they had received Mr Stephens's reply. The Clerk said the caune of the delay in issuing the advertisement was Mr Stephens, who was taking no notice 0' the Local Government Board's letters. The O!erk was instructed to advertise immediately on receiving the Local Government Board's definite reply. A letter was received from Mr Bircham expressing regret at the death of the late Master. This was all the business.

CARMARTHEN RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL. This body met at the Shire- hall, Carmarthen, on Saturday afternoon, Mr John Phillips, Caerlleon, pre- siding. There was a fair attendance of members. An Advance of £ 5. Surveyor Morgan applied for a small advance in wages- £ 5 or so-in order to clear his expenses in travelling to and from Carmarthen. The Rev. Thomas Jones, Llanddowror, proposed that £5 be given. The Chairman seconded. Miss Gwyn moved for no, and Mr David Thomas seconded- I The Cbairman-The man only wants L5; why do we push him ? Miss Gwyn withdrew her motion, and it was agreed that an advance of 15 be allowed. Mr Morgan thanked the Council. He said he had been many years surveyor, and if an advance in salary was a test of an official, he knew that he had been appreciated (hear, hear). Conwil Bridge. This matter again came before the Council. The Clerk (Mr Rowland Browne) said he had com- municated with the County Clerk (Mr Thomas Jones) as instructed, and he had received a reply. A copv of the County Council's resolution on the above bridge was enclosed, Mr Jones said that an application was read from the District Council, asking for a grant in aid of the erection of a bridge at ,Conwil.-Mr C. E. Morris moved that the appli. cation be granted, and that a sum, amounting to half the cost, be apportioned.—The Surveyor drew the attention of the Council to the fact that the road on which the bridge was to be erected was not a public one. -Dr. Thomas moved, and it was agreed that the application be refused. The Clerk-You know—this is all nonsense. They are simply evading us. Ours ia not a fresh application. It is only asking them to grant some more. They are evading the whole thing. They agreed at first to grant us a certain sum. They have never reBoinded their original motion at all. As to the Surveyor telling the Council that the road is not a public highway, he had approved of the plans of two bridges up there—an iron bridge and a stone bridge. I think I am speaking correctly, and he recommenced the Council to grant us a sum the first time Why did he not tell them tten that it was not a public highway, or something of the kind ? Why allow th-,m to grant £100 without telling them, and now turn rnand F The Rav. Thomas Jones proposed that the speci- fications be sent to the Clerk as early as possible, and that the County Council be approached again for a grant. Mr J. S. Williams, Trelech, speaking with regard to Aberdauddwr Bridge, wished to know if they could get a contribution from the County Council towards it. He thought Mr Bowen, the councillor for the district, should be asked to put a motion on the agenda. The Clerk was asked to communicate again with the County Council in the matter of Conwil Bridge. I The County Council "a Shilly-Shallying I Body." Some discussion took place with reference to Station- road, St. Clears, which the County Council reoently decided to take over, It was reported to be in a bad state. The Clerk said that the County Council, without being asked by anybody, volunteered to take over this road, and nothing was being dose. They were a shilly shallying body. They did not know their own minds from one meeting to the other (laughter). He complained that he I had not been communicated with at all by the County Council. Surely, whfn one public body went to another and asked for something, notice should be given of what conclusion had been arrived at. They knew nothing about it, except what they saw in the papers. It was a most unbusinesslike transaction. A committee was eventually appointed to confer with the Surveyor and Dr. Thomas, St. Clears, as to what works should be carried out before the road was taken over. Surveyor Morgan said that one question that would arise was as to stones. The weather was dry now, and the road had been cut up very much, there being a tremendous timber traffic. He had suggested that now was not the time to put ctenes cut, but the road needed them, and he would suggest that they should provide a certain quantity, so that when the steam-roller got to St Clears, they could finish with it. Mr David Thomas-If we leave them alone, they will leave it for five or six years, and then they won't take it over. It was agreed to prooure stones. ♦

TALOG. DEATH AND FUNERAL OF THE LATE MR. D. DAVIES, CLYNPURFAITH.-This district has lost one of its most respected residents in the death of the above-named gentleman, who succumbed very suddenly on the 7th inst. from paralysis. The deceased had enjoyed very robust health until last autumn, when he had the first seizure of that distressing complaint, and although the end was not unexpected, the news of his death shocked the whole neighbourhood. He was of a most genial disposition, and was noted for his kindness at all times —a better neighbour never lived. The funeral, which was one of the largest seen in these parts, took place the following Monday, and testified to the esteem in which the deceased and family are held by all denominations, the place of interment being Blaenycoed Burial-ground, of which chapel the deceased was a faithful member. The Rev. S. Thomas, his late pastor, read and prayed at the house, and also preached a short appropriate sermon in the chapel: whilst at the grave- side, the Rev. W. Meirion Davies, Brynamlwg, spoke in feeling terms, and the Rev. W. H. Jones, vicar of Trelech, concluding in prayer. The coffin, which was of polished oak, with massive brass fittings, bore the following inscription David Davies, died March 7th, aged 57 years." The deceased leaves a widow, one son, and four daughters, who have the sincerest sympathy of a wide circle of friends to mourn their irreparable loss. LINSEED COMPOUND cures Coughs and Colds. Gives immediate relief. 92, and 13:¡-d.

WHITLAND. 1 EDUCATIONAL MATTERS.—Mr Samuel Williams, Aber- hosan, near Machynlleth, North Wales, has been ap- pointed headmaster of the Llanboidy Board School, and will commence the duties in April. Mr J. Harries, Clynderwen, the new assistant appointed to Whitland Board School, has begun work there. PARISH COUNCIL ELECTIONS.—No. 1 Ward of Llangan Parish held their parish meeting on Monday evening, Mr J. Griffith Rees, Whitland, in the chair. All the old members were declared re-elected for the coming three years, viz.: Mr Caleb Rees, Whitland House; Mr George Evans, Railway Tavern Mr William or, London House; Mr John Evans, carpenter; and Mr John Thomas, railway packer. NIGHT SCHOOL BREAKING-UP MEETING.—The night school conducted at the Board School, Whitland, by Mr Scourfield, the headmaster, had their breaking-up and annual entertainment on Friday evening last week. Justice was well done to the tea and cake which heavily loaded the tables, and were liberally provided by the headmaster. Over thirty adult pupils, with their friends, partook, and were attended to by Mrs Burgess, head- mistress of the infant department: Mrs Harries, iron- monger; and Mrs Roblin, West-street. The party having retired to one of the large class-rooms, Mr P. N. Owen, Medical Hall, Whitland, was voted to the chair, and expressed his great pleasure at being present. The following programme was then gone through in a most creditable manner:—Song, Cadair freichiau fy nhad," Mr Vincent Thomas; address, Mr David Wheeler (on the advantages of the evening school, which he characterised as having done a world of good. He was very thankful to Mr Scourfield for keeping it.): song, I'r lan, i'r lan," Mr Daniel Rees; recitation, "Free, free at last, Mr George F. Nudd; song, "Better times are coming," Mr Gwilym Thomas. Mr John Bennett, another old pupil who is proud of having derived so much good from the school, gave the follow- ing address, which we give in full as another specimen of what the night schools do:—"Dear friends,—Being older than some of you, I suppose I must say a few words-not to set a bad example. I am sure you will join with me in saying that this night school has been a great help to all of us. We can feel very thankful that to-day we'have night schools, while many of our fathers and mothers never heard or saw them. You know as well as I do that everybody now tries to learn all he can, and without learning we cannot hope to be well thought of as time goes on. Perhaps we have been lazy some- times in learning here. Well, if so, let us try our very best the next time, if God gives us life to do so. Very often we are ready to cry because we have wasted such good time when we were younger. I know how I feel myself, so, young friends, kindly listen to what I tell you, and remember it. Learning is worth everything we have; indeed, it is so dear that nothing can buy it— only our own work. We must listen to the stories told to us by those who are older than we are, and learn lessons from them. People are never sorry that they j have learnt anything, but they always feel sorry tor what they have not learnt. I wish very much to give thanks to Mr Scourfield for being so very kind as to hold a night school here. It is very kind vf him to take pity on us. Without him we would not be here to-night. Don't think that it is only to make money he keeps a night school. Whoever thinks this has a very poor thought. The work of teaching is hard, so I hope you will look on Mr Scourfield as a kind and good person. Well, about tha tea, all I can say is that it was nicer than any I have tasted, and I wish to thank everyone here for doing their best, and to Mr Scourfield for giving it, because you have all enjoyed yourselves. I am very sorry to see that Mrs Scourfield is not here this evening; she is not well. I hope she will be soon restored." Song, "Jolly Miller," Mr Llewellyn; selections on mouth "Geneth fach am- organ, Mr Edgar Harries; song, "Geneth fach am- ddifad," Miss Maggie Owens (encored, and repeated). The Chairman said she had a splendid voice, and would soon be able to compete at eisteddfodau. Mr David Thomas, another adult pupil, postponed his address till next vear. Song, "When dewy light is fading," Miss Rachel Owens; recitation, "Nelly's Prayer," Miss Agnes Trevor (exceedingly well recited, and most ap- propriate for the present time, with our past and present experience of the sufferings caused by the South African War. Song, "Mae 'nghalon ar dori," Miss Phoebe Esther Morgan (encored, and repeated in good style); address, Mr Willie Edwards (on the usefulness of the night schools to keep young people from the streets and public-houses, &c., with a few poetical lines). Mr J. Newton Rees, Emporium, delivered a very instructive and stirring address on the advantages of the night school, and thanked him for having invited him there as one of their guests thi„t evening. He wished them and the night school every success. Song, "Morwr Lion," Mr Daniel Rees. Mr William Robin, the senior pupil of the school, in giving an address in Welsh, advocated the advantages of the night school. It had taught him punctuality, to read, to write his mind on paper, to count, write out bills, &c.,to calculate quantity required for any job, to sing, and to know the way to do different things. He characterised it as if, with outstretched arms, receiving one and all, and, as finger-posts, show- ing the way to the desired knowledge they set their hearts upon. Mr J. Griffith Rees, Whitland, was glad to have been present, and strongly urged them to induce their friends to avail themselves of the educational ad- vantages they enjoyed, to continue studying during the summer, and to do their best to get as many as possible of new members to come next year. Duet, Lead not to Temptation," Misses Maggie Owen and P. E. Morgan. Mr William Howells strongly advocated the advantages of education as a whole, and the advantages of the night school to him, followed by some Welsh poetry of his own production. Song, "Cymru fy ngwlad," Mr Vincent Thomas. Mr Evan Griffiths was thankful for the advantages of the night school. Quar- tette, Jesus' Blood," Mr W. Roblin, and Misses P. E. Morgan, Lizzie Harries, and Maggie Owens. Mr Scourfield, in a pithy, instructive, and elevating address, urged on all the pupils to continue in their studies, add- ing that he had derived great pleasure from the night school, and hoped that next year they would all endavour to be more regular in their attendances. He proposed offering prizes for the best attendances next year. Mr Owen, the chairman, said that the result of the night school was most encouraging, a lot of work having been done. He had derived great pleasure in presiding over that important meeting. Three cheers having been given to the secretary of the night class (Mr J. Newton Rees) and the ladies (Mrs Burgess, Mrs Harris, and Mrs Roblin) for assisting at the tables, and a vote of thanks proposed by Mr Edmonds, seconded by Mr William Howells, to Mr Scourfield for conducting the class, with the hope that Mrs Scourfield would soon recover, the proceedings of the evening were brought to a close with the singing of "Hen Wlad fy Nhadau" by Mr J. Newton Rees, all present joining in the chorus. "LINSEED COMPOUND" of 35 years' Proven Efficacy for Coughs and Colds. 9k. and 13kd.

AFFAIRS IN CHINA —Connr von B. w made an important declaration concerni,y Oh-n* in the G rman Reichstag on Friday He Btit: that would no longer be of any ava 1; fcu', ?''< W n ng scTious guarantees worp recf ivi d f' r fl e pivniert { the indemnifies, the Gem^n trcr p? <• i ul t he withdrawn The Anglo G rman Agaeuunt, ie f d, vi!fg ror cluded with the f bj-CL of prrseri'irg, as 'OTIR OP P- the integrity of China, and if involving tt,n..s¡;lvE's in that ootin, ry only so far 8N was necessary fnr thf is ootrmeroe. The agreement did not reitr to Manchuria where Germany had no in»erpf-f;s worthy nieniion, though it «as of interest to G^nrany thst China should not unduly diminish her Dati,,ih! piop,-rtv. In thf policy which Germaoy had pursued in the Far E'it, Count Bulow added, they had been supported by Austra- Hungary and Italy in the most loyal manuer, hnd that hey would go hand in hand with those two Allies ollowed as a matter of course trIm the abto uiciy un- haken continuance of the Triple Aliiance.