The Merthyr Telegraph and General Advertiser for the Iron Districts of South Wales

LONDON CORRESPONDENCE; I hear that it is intended at as early a period as possible to open a middle-class school for the Roman Catholic youth of London at Charing Cross or in ita immediate neighbourhood. The scheme has the sympathy and support of Cardinal Manning. Over- tures to undertake the formation and management of the school have been made to the French Chris- tian Brothers, whose work at Clapham College has been so well approved by the distinctions attained by their pupils at the University of London. Nothing could better show the popularity of the late Mr. Frank Buckiand than the list of subscrip- lions to the memorial of him. He is to have a bust at Lile South Kensington Museum, and it is proposed to buy his widow an annuity of £100. Prince Christian has given ten guineas to head the list of subscriptions. The Marquis of Bute gives £ 25, the Duke of Westminster £ 1 u, the Marquis of Salisbury £.5. The Duke of St. Albans and Lord Exeter, the Dean of Westminister and the Duke of Sutherland, Lord Arthur Russell and Professor Owen, are among the other contributors. It has been usual to cnange the programmes of the London theatres at Easter. But Easter falls so late this yesr, and the theatres as a rule are doing so well, that tnere are no programmes to change, The only alteration of importance is the appearance of Ilr, Irving in the more cheerful Belles' Stratagem, instead oi in the Corsican Brothers. A week later, Mr. John McCollough appears for a month at Drury Lane as Virginius. lie will be succeeded by tue Meiningen Court Company, who will play, in German, Shakspere, Schiller, and Goethe. A German company will play Shakspere in German to an English audience, but will not attempt to give us Goethe's Faust. iLtaiut i/iaxune dejiendus The appointment of Lord Carlingford to the vacant office of Lord Privy Seal, with intent that he shall take charge of the Land Bill in the Lords, is favourably regarded. Lord Carlingford is best known to the public as Mr. Chichester Fortescue. lie was Irish Chief Secretary in Mr. Gladstone's former Government, and is intimately acquainted with the necessities and possibilities of the Land Question. He is not a particularly fascinating speaker, but is a man of much tact, tempwr, and industry—qualities that will stand him in good stead when the Bill comes to Committee. » • can be no doubt but this is the age of enter- prise. Notwithstanding the depression of trade in almost every branch, people are still to be found, who are convinced that a spirited and judicious outlay will always bring in a good return, and no doubt they are correct in their idea. The Four Uaks Ciub steeple chase meeting, held at Sutton Coldheld last month was, I am informed, a great success, and now I see they offer the princely sum of £1,000 to be run for on Easter Monday. Mr. Sheldon, the popular manager, says, Give me fine weather, and I'm sure of success." I understand that H.R.H. the Prince of Wales will honour the club with his presence at one of their early meetings. • « • It seems to me that the English have all along been libelling the Scotch over the question of jokes. Sheriff Mair, of the Glasgow Small Debts Court, is doing his best to remove the stigma lrom which the reputation of his countrymen has so greatly suf- fered. The other day he was engaged in hearing a ease in which plaintiff—they call, them pursuers, a corruption probably of purse-hewers, up there—sued for fees for the months' instruction in dancing. The "defender," it came out, had said he wanted to learn some steps, as he was going to a marriage. And here it was that Sheriff Mair interposed with, There are often very serious steps taken in going to a marriage." This witty remark was received with loud laughter, which, of course, was immediately suppressed. I hear that the new President of the United States has given great satisfaction in his expressed deter- mination to aid in the suppression of Mormon poly- gamy. Mr. Garfield is assured that if he will follow up the programme he has marked out on the thresh old of his administration he will have the support of all men, irrespective of party, whose support and good will are worth having. Public opinion is thoroughly aroused on the question. As a leading New York organ puts it:—" We have been fooling and playing with this Mormon leprosy too long. it is idle to expect that it can be destroyed by the civilising forces of the railroad, the telegraph, and the newspaper, which a few years ago were counted upon so strongly for its extinction. It must be fcak en hold of by the stiong arm of the law, and the sooner it is done the better. A correspondent informs me that Mr. Langtry can't stand the Yankees. He went uut in the same ship as Hanlan, Wallace Ross, Mr. Whitefoot, of the Sportsman, and others, his object being purely a pleasure trip. Unfortunately the glory of the Lily's loveliness had preceded him, and wor- shippers, as the Americans are, at the shrine of beauty he has been eternally pestered for del-ails." Mr. Langtry is absolutely dyiug before tue un- chfickable onslaughts of the interviewers. Like the refined foreigner who once wrote to a Glasgow journal saying he intended leaving that city for his own leetle'' village by the German lihine because the Glasgerians blew their noses with their naked fingers in ze publig streets," Mr. Langtry is dis- gusted at the indecencies of the Yankee reprobates— beg pardon, reporters—and intends advancing back- wards. Bravo, Langtry Once again the Albert Hall is to be made the scene of a fancy fair. In the second week in June, all the aristocracy of England are to play at being oid Englishmen and thirteenth century English- woman, and they will believe themselves very be- nevolent and charitable when they do so, since, though the sport will be theirs, the profits of the bazaar will go to the Chelsea Hospital for Women. Fifteen tents are to be set up in the arena, every tent having its quaint sign, and all being rich in tolour. The Countess of Kintore and Mrs. Newton are to sport the colour of russet and to sell at the sign of Ye Sherwood Oak. Lady Constance Howard will wear grey, and be known by the pestle and mortar. Lady Churchill will sport the silver shield and have her hangings in light blue. The Countess of Romney and others will also have stalls. But wttere, oh, where are the professional beauties? They are absent. Not even Sarah Bernhardt is to appear. The true aristocracy" have indeed avenged themselves. • "Palm Sunday" is not an Anglican feast. It is acknowledged only by the choice of an optional les- son at the evening service, which makes no mention oi the strewing of palms in the way. There is no Sbch ceremony known to the church as the blessing of the palms. Yet every year more metropolitan churches recognise a feast which is not in the calen- dar. Sometimes they do it quietly enough. At St. Peter's, Bayswater, the only mark of the day was found in the twining of palms on the screen which separates the. chancel from the remainder of the ehurch but in some other churches the acolytes" were made to carry palms and to hold them while the gospel for the day, which had nothing to do with the triumphant entry into Jerusalem, was being read. So far as a candid miud can conceive, the ceremony, if a little childish and very inappropriate, is by no means harmful. Nobody is hurt by it; no doctrine which anybody cares to repudiate is in- volved in it. But it is another sign of the increas- ing liking for Roman ceremonials. When we come to deal with doctors, etiqueftt is more dominant, and seems to be less excusable. In the caae of Lord Beaconsfield the patient had trusted himself to a vary eminent homieopathist, who had attended him for years. Dr. ividd had been with him at Berlin, and both knew his constitution and had the confidence of his patient. Dr. Kidd is also a practiser of allopathy. Then Dr. Quain was called in, and etiquette became nearly as great a complication as bronchitis. Not, indeed, that either Dr. Kidd or Dr. Quain made difficulties. They were as willing to do their duty as that young counsel would have been anxious to defend the prisoner for 198., or, possibly, for nothing. But it was amusing —that is, it would be amusing if it were not melan- choly—to see how the medical papers took up the point and loyally defended Dr. Quain. It was ex- plained that he had been guilty of no breach of medical etiquette. To the uninitiated, it might seem that such a course was really unnecessary. Homoeo- pathy may be delusive, but it is absurd to say that an allopath may not assist a horncwopath in preserving a valuable life without the accompaniments of a chorua of weekly papers, all crying out in shrill con- 88rt of approval.

Owing to the late distress 15,000 acres of land have been put out of cultivation in Bedfordshire. A new club, in Paris, called the Cercle Taitbout, been closed by the police on account of certain gambling malpractices. From New York we have news that the immense passenger traffic to Europe continues, and that EWSS.T"9'249 -*»«. ha.VÙ1Q! Jandid dunng laat week.. The Citizen states that Mr. Ashmead Burdett- Coutts-Bartlett has been admitted to the freedom and livery of the Inmers Company, in which, as an honorary member, Lady Lurdett-Coutts has taken <40 much interest. ■ A fire of an alarming character broke out on Sat-1 urday at the Acorn Wharf, Old Kent Road, London,1 the nremises belonging to Messrs. May and Sons,J ^rc^mts. The Mteaiive buildings w«#

MONEY. MONEY. MONEY. THE IMPERIAL ADVANCE BANK. THE IMPERIAL ADVANCE BANK was established in South John Street in 1375. THE IMPERIAL ADVANCE BANK is now established a. 70 AND 72, VICTORIA STREET, LIVERPOOL. THE IMPERIAL ADVANCE BANK is considered to be THE HANDSOMEST BOLNJESS PREMISES IN LIVERPOOL. THE IMPERIAL ADVANCE BANK UNDs !KO"Y TO THI: rOI.LOWIN& PERSORS :-Farmers, Shopke-pers Printe Householders (Ladies or C.r Proprietors, Licens d Victualler*, Cow Keepers, Trades- men. School Proprietors, Clergymen. Builders, Warehouse- men. Professional <ientlemt!o, > 'lerks holding permanent situations, Persons about entering in business, and all other esponsible persons. THE IMPERIAL ADVANCE BANK has the following amounts at its command, to lend to the above pt!rsons :-Twenty sums of £ 200 each, thirty dums of J6150 each, forty sums of £ 80 each, ten auins of £ 1/ 00 each. one hundred sum- of £ 10 ach fif'y sums of £30 each, thirty sums of £ 100 each, fifty 811ms of £ 50 eaeh, t :n sums of £ 800 each one hundred sums of £ lo each, forty soms of £ 00 each. twenty sums of £25ú each, forty sums of £7<1 each, twenty sums of £ > 0 each. ten sums of ,£.50J each. fifty sums of jBK) each. one hundred sums of £20 each, and various intermediate sums from JEiu to £1 oon. THE IMPERIAL ADVANCE BANK requires NO SURETIES, but lends upon borrowers' own security. Easy mode of Repayments. Kent Executions and Loins paid out in any part of England and Wales -Di<tance i8 no objection. Applicants are cautioned not to be allured by a cunningly worded advertisement issuing from a disreputable office, when they can be acrommodafed un the most liberal terms by the Imperial Advance Bank Call at Bank, or apply by letter, stating amount required) to L. aIMMONS, (Principal) 1564 7v u 72, Victoria Street, Liverpool. TEMPiiKA.NCli HALL, MivRTHXE. MR NUGENT has the honour to announce he has arranged for the appearance of his ROYAL COMEDY DRAMA COMPANY FOR SEVEN NIGHTS ONLY, Uommmencing on SATURDAY, APRIL 16th, 1881. Saturday, April 16th THE STREETS OF LoNDoN. Monday, April 18th ARRAH-NA-POGHE. Tuesday, April 19th EAST LYNNE. Wednesday, April 29th THE SHACGBRAON. Thursday, April 21 PoOB JOE." Friday, April 22. MONEY. Saturday, April 23, last night of the Company, GREEN [BUSHES. The Performance will conclude each Evening with a New and Laughable Faice. Manager MR. T. R. NUGENT. Ad mission — Reserved Seats, 3s. Second Seats, 2s. Third Seats aud Balcony, Is; Hack Seats, 6d. Doors open at 7.15, commence at 7.45. Carriages a 10.30. 1584 TOBDILDERS. PERSONS desirous of CONTRACTING for the ERECTION OF ADDITIONS AND ALTERA- TIONS to the NEATH POLICE STATION may see Plans and Specification, and obtain Quantities, at iny Office at Bridgend, on and after FRIDAY, the 8th instant. Tenders to be sent me by the 18th instant, marked Tenders for Neath Police Station." Each tender must be accompanied with the names of two responsible persons as sureties, or they will not be considered. The Justices do not bind themselves to accept the lowest or any tender. T. MANSELL FRANKLEN, Clerk of the Peace. Bridgend, 4th April, 1881. 1571 MERTHYR TYDFIL PROPRIETARY SCHOOL, PENDARKAN PAKK, MERTHYR TYDFIL. HFAD MASTER T. FAWCETT, ESQ., M.A., (Formerly Scholar and Prizeman of Trinity Hall, Cambrvige, Graduate in Mathematical Honours, d:C.) BOYS are specially prepared far Open Scholarships at the Universities, the Civil Services the Oxford and Cambridge Local Examinations, the Preliminary Examinations in Law and Medicine, and for Business Pursuits. Six Pupils of the School passed the Cambridge Local Examination last December, three of them took Honours, and one, in addition to being in the First Class, gained the mark of distinction in Latin, French, English and Religious Knowledge. The Fees are moderate and inclusive. Prospectuses and every information can be obtained from the Head Master, or the Secretary, Mr. T. W. Goodfellow.* The Summer Term commences on TUESDAY, MAY 3rd. Pendarran House, April 13th, 1881. 1589 MERTHYR TYDFIL LOCAL BOARD OF HEALTH. TO WATER WORKS CONTRACTORS. THE Board hereby invite Tenders from persons I willing to Contract for Laying and Jointing about Fight-and-a-Half Miles of Cast Iron Socket Pipes of 7, 6, 5,' and 3 inches in diameter, 8xtpnding from Dowlais Top to Treharris, in the Parish of Merthyr Tydfil, together with the construction of a covered reservoir to CCJntaiu about 90,000 gallons, pressure reducing wells, and other works. Drawing and a Specification of the Works may be seen. at the Ottice of Mr. S. H \RI UR, Engineer to the Board, 71, Witfh street McrthyrTyduI, from the 19th instant to the 2nd day of May next. A Printed Copv of the Specification with Bill Af Quantities and Korm of Tender, may tJe had. on payment of One Guinea, to be returned to unsuccessful tenderers who shall hAve delivered genuine tender> Sealed tenders, endorsed .f Tender for Pipe laying, 4c, to be left at the Office of the lerk to the Board, 71, High otreet Merthyr Tydfil, on or before the 2nd May, 1881. The lowest or other tender will not necessarily be accepted. 1590 THOMAS WILLIAMS, Merthyr Tydfil, April 12th, 1881. Clerk to the Board. [ESTABLISHED 1831.] WILLIAM POWELL, SADDLER, 6. GLEBELAND STREET, MKKTMYR, BEGS most respectfully to thank his numerous JD Supporters for their liberal patronage. He has great pleasure in informing the Gentry, Trade, and Public, that he will open bis New Premises, at No. 14, ULEBELAND STREUT, MERTHYR, on SATUR- DAY next, APRIL 2nd, and which are couiinodiously fitted out for the requirements of his business in its various branches. Hoping to receive a continuance of that liberal sup- port hitherto received, be will do his utmost to give public satisfaction. Saddlery, Gig and Carriage Harness of all kinds and Vluidies mllde to order. Machine Belting. Collieries supplied with all Har- ness requisites. Maker of Trusses, Sayers' and Thomas' Apparatus, and other Surgical Instruments. Ladies' and Gentlemen's Portmanteaus, the Gladstone's Sidney's Patent Leather and Enamelled Leather Travelling Goods, of first class quality. Colliery Leather Caps, and the Glasgow Patent Leather Shirt.—Collars in every variety. W.P. is long established, and has bad extensive ex. perience in all the above Branches, and hopes to secure a share of public patronage, which will always he esteemed. 1572 FURNITURE. THE CO-OPERATIVE CABINET & GENERAL HOUSg FURNISHING ASSOCIATION, SUPPLY Furniture of the newest and best designs, Direct from the Makers, and thus effect a Large Saving to the Public, which is fully explained in their Catalogue for which please write. ALL ARTICLES PACKED AND CARRIAGE PAID. £ s. d. A Four Roomed House, furnished complete.. 10 0 0 A Six Ditto Ditto 26 6 6 A Drawing Room Furnished in Fine Italian Walnut. 15 Articles 16 17 6 A Dining Room. furnished complete in Solid Mahogany, 11 Articles 14 g 0 A Single Bed Room, 11 Articles 2 14 6 Dining Rooms, furnished for £20 8a.. jB24 10a JE33 13s. 6d., £401511., £59 10s., &c. Drawing Rooms furnished for £21 15s., £31178. 6d JM7 7s. 6d.. £54 17s. 6d., i:73 19s. 6d., &c Bed Rooms famished for £4 11s. 61., t:9 48. 6d B13 Is. 6d., JB25 13s. 6& £39 18s. 6d., flee. All Packed and Carriage Paid to any Railway Station. Any single article at proportionate prices. tlotels and Public Institutions Furnished on the most advantageous terms. Bankers—LONDON AND COUNTY BANK. Address-91, FINSBURY PAVEMENT and 48, MOORFJELDS. LONDON, E.C. 1565 TOWLE'S PENNYROYAL AND STEEL PILLS FOR FEMALES quickly correct all irreirn it ni eg and relieve the distressing symptoms so prevalent with the sex. Boxes, 1 s 1 id and 2, 9df of all Chemist! cfiuSm stamps, by the Maker, E. T. Town l§ib THE BOARD OF GUARDIANS I ELECTION. TO THE RATEPAYERS OF THE TOWN WARD, MERTHYR TYDFIL. LADIES AND GENTLEMEN,— T feel it due to offer you my sincere gratitude for the honour you have again conferred upon me by electing me for the third time to a seat on this impor- tant Board- the most important of its kind in South Wales. I am fully conscious of personal inadequacy to fulfil the duties of Guardian of this extensive and populous Union, with its varied interests, as they should be performed, but in all that I have done in the past, and I trust it may be so in the future, I have been actuated by the sincerest motives to do the best I could, not only in the interest of the Ratepayers, but in alleviating the suffering of the helpless but deserv- ing Poor. This will be my constant aim in the future, at least so long as I may be favoured with your coofi. dence. Again thanking you for the honour conferred and the trust reposed in me, I am, Ladies and Gentlemen, 1587 Your obliged Servant, DAVID DAVIES. GLEBELAND, MERTHYR TYDFIL, APRIL 13th, 1881. RE EDWARD PURCHASE, DECEASED.

PURSUANT to the Act 22ad and 23rd Victoria, chapter 35. intitied, An Act to further amend the Law of Property and to relieve Trustees OTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN thatWl Creditors, and other persons, having any Debt*, Claims, or Demands upon,, against, or affecting the listate of EDWARD PURCHASE, late of Ynysygored, near Merthyr Tydfil, Glamorganshire, deceased, who died on the 1st day of December, 1880, and whose Will, with one Codicil thereto, was duly proved on the 20th day of December, 1880, in the Principal Registry of the Probate Division of the High Court of Justice, by FREDERICK CHARLES PURCHASE, of Neath, Glamorgan- shire, FREDERICK WILLIAM PURCHASE, of Bath, and WILLIAM ROACH, of Merthyr Tydfil, aforesaid, the Executors therein named, are hereby required to send in full particulars in writing of their debts, claims, or demands to me. the undersigned FREDERICS CHARLES PURCHASE, one of the said Executors, on orjbefore the 2nd day of May now next ensuing. And NOTICE IS HEREBY ALSO GIVEN, that immediately after that day the said Executors will proceed, to distribute the assets of the said Deceased among the persons entitled thereto, having regard only to the claims and demands of which they shall then have had notice. And further, that the said Executors will not be liable for the assets, or any part thereof, so distributed to any person or persons of whose debt, claim, or demand they shall not then have had notice at the time of the said distribution. And all persons indebted to the said estate are hereby requested forthwith to pay the amount of their respective liabilities to the undersigned. Dated this 9th day of April, 1881. FREDERICK CHARLES PURCHASE, 1588 44, London-road, Neath, Glamorganshire.

THE ELHCTI ON OF GUARDIANS FOR MERTHYR UNION. The election of Guardians to administer the poor- laws in the Merthyr Union during the coming year has passad off with but very few changes being made in the constitution of the Board, as it previously stood. The only three parishes in which there were contests were Merthyr, Aberdare, and Vaynor, in each of which some fresh blood has been infused, Mr Daniel Jones supplanting Mr John Gabe in the Town Ward, Mr John James, brewer's ager.t, being the new member for Aberdare Town Ward, and Mr Evan Lewis succeeding Mr Thomas Edwards at Vaynor. Apparently, looking at the very few changes that have taken plsce, the ratepayers are neither better nor worse represented than they were previously. As usual there was a great flourish of trumpets, "as it were," when the nominations were sent in, and contests seemed probable in a good many of the districts, but, as has always beenlthe case, the valour of a number of the aspirants to the honour of being elected a guardian quickly dwindled, and enabled arrangements to be come to which rendered a contest unnecessary. One of these arrangements is worthy of notice, viz., the drawing of lots amongst the candidates as to who should represent the Aber- dare North Ward at the Board. Very considerable interest was shown in the result of the voting in the Merthyr Town Ward, and not a little sensation was caused when the first announcement was made that Mr D. Davies, of the Glebeland, had not again been returned. This mistake, however, was quickly rectified. In looking over the very brief list of tbe new members, one cannot but regret the non-return of Mr. Thomas Edwards, for Vaynor parish. Mr. Edwards has been one of the most prominent-but not too prominent—members of the Board for some years past, and in him will be lost a good and efficient guardian. We agree with Mr. Edwards on very few public questions, but we think it is greatly to be regretted that his services are lost to the union and the Board. In his successor, Mr Lewis, the parish will have but a passive guardian. That gentleman was formerly upon the board, and no doubt he will again take up the same position assumed by him on the former occasion-give silent votes. .0 THE RHONDDA (JOAL TRADE. SERIOUS STRIKE AT HAFOD. At Hafod Colliery, Rhondda Valley, 400 men were- out on strike on Tuesday. Under the new management the Coedcae mode of payment is sought to be enforced —a draw and monthly pay. A meeting of the colliers was held on Tuesday morning, at which it was reeoiveet not to resume work until the old terWII were granted. The men also deem the daily contract system of working most obnoxious. It may be remembered that since Mr Wm. Thomas Lewis has become connected with the colliery, Mr Roaser, late mauager under Mr Thomas Jones (formerly sole proprietor), has been superceded by Mr W. Davies, manager of Coedcae (Mr W. T. Lewis's) Colliery. At Pentre Colliery the men have settled matters amicably with the employers. The ooal trade of the Valley happily continues brisk. TREDEGAR IRON WORKS. Matters go on swimmingly at these prosperous and extensive works. Every department is in full go and orders are coming in daily, both in the iron and coal branches. There is a lack of siding accommodation at many points on the company's line, but this will be provided for when the Pochin pits and the projected steel works have become an accomplished fact. Some And fault that there should be such dplay in laying down the plant for the new steel works, but all improvements are being discovered almost daily, the company here will have the benefit of the delay, and will be able to construct the new works or- the latest and most improved principle. We cannot say Tredegar is in its normal condition, but we can safely assert that more regular work does not obtain in many places of far greater pretentions.

THR.»AT IRRITATION.—Soreness and dryness, tickling and irritation, inducing cough and affecting the voice. For these symptoms use KpiVa Glycerine Jujubes. Glycerine, in these agreeable confections, being in proximity to the glands at the moment they are excited by the act of sucking, becomes actively heiling.—Sold only in boxe<i, 7id. and is. J&, labelled "jAMEa Eppa & Co., Homceopathic Chemists, London." A letter received Gentlemen It may, perhaps, interest you to know that, after an extended trial, I have found your Glycerine ^Jujubes of considerable benefit (with or without medical treatment) in almost all forms of throat disease. They soften and clear the voice. In no case can they do any harm.-Yours faithfully, GORDON HOLMES, L.R.C.P.E., Senior Physician to the Municipal Throat and Ear Infirmary." DUNVILLU'SJ 01d| Irish Whisky is reoomwened by the medical profession in preference to French brandy, They hold the largest stock of Whisky in the world! Supplied in easks and cases for home use and exporta- tion orotfttiuka on application to DUNVILLE Co. LIMITED, ROYAL IRISH DISTILLERIES, BttFAftT. 1566 MR JOHNSON in his Chemistry of Common Life pointed j out that Cocoa had long reached the consumer with too much of its own fat, or loaded with a variety of farinaceous substances, producing a soun rather than a beverage. The Cocoa bean affords admirable nutritive flesh forming qua lities, and staying power. In Cadbury's Cocoa Essence these are retained and concentrated, providing an exhilarating bfQsioo, not a starchy MOP," Warning! to MwtthoHtrt. IMS lities, and staying power. In Cadbury's Cocoa Essence these are retained and concentrated, providing an exhilarating bfQsioo, not a staFphy Map." Warning! to MwtthoHtrt. IMS

MERTHYR CHAMBER OF TRADE. The members of the Council of this Chamber held their usual monthly meeting on Tuesday evening last, when there were present Messrs F. James, (president) J. Plews, T. J. Dyke, W. Meredith, H. P. Biddle, E. Roberts, D. Evans (auctioneer), J. W. James, J. Jenkins, T. Evans, and MrD. R. Lewis (secretary ) SUNDAY TRAINS ON THE LONDON AND NORTH-WESTERN RAILWAY. The President verbally reported as to the interview between Mr Bishop, manager of the London and North Western Railway Company, and the committee appointed by the Chamber to meet him respecting the running of Sunday trains. The President said the committee had seen Mr Bishop, but be was afraid that their application would be of no use, as Mr Bishop thought it was not worth while to disturb matters as they were, and did not think that Sunday trains would be of such importance to the general public that they should deprive their workmen of the Sunday holiday. The chairman of the directors was very much averse to Sunday traffic, and he thought they might take it from what Mr Bishop said that there would be no chance of running anything on Sundays.—Mr Plews said ho had seen Mr Bishop since the date referred to by the president, and he was prepared to make a time table. He had seen Mr Bishop the day before he was going to town 10 attend the conference meeting, and he pro- mised whilst there to bring the matter forward. As far as he was concerned, Mr Bishop said, he would offer no opposition. He would prepare a time-table and lay it before the meeting if they countenanctd the matkr. Dr Dyke: Trains vice versa to Abergavenny and Merthyr? —Mr Plews: Yes, one in the mornini, and one in the evening.—The President: So far so good (To Mr Plews): When did you see Mr Bishop? Mr Plews: A week since, and the conference was on the Thursday following. It would take some time to con- sider the matter, as it was not one they could settle at once. Mr Bishop spoke more favourably of the pro- ject than when the committee met him.—t he subject then dropped. THE PLANTING~OF THE NEWFOUNDLAND TIP. The following letter from the cierk to the Merthyr Board of Health was read Merthyr Tydfil, 7th March, 1881.-Dear sir,—I am instructed by the Board to inform the deputation that waited up. In the Board with reference to the erection of a w,.JI on the upper side of the pathway leading from the Glebeland to Brecon-road that such will be erected, provided the top of the Newfoundland tip be fenced, a lease of the tip granted, and the same is planted with trees, as stated by the deputation.—Yours truly, T. WILLIAMS. -To D. R. Lewis, Esq., &c."—The President observed that with regard to the lease, Mr David Davis had given him instructions to prepare it. It was for 99 years, and the conditions were the payment of a shilling a year, with liberty to plant trees or cut them down, but in event of their being cut down VI r Dnvis was to have them.—This statement was considered satisfactory by the Council, and after a brief conversa- tion, the matter was left in the hands of the gentiemen who previously had it in charge. THE PROPOSED FREE LIBRARY. With reference to the proposed free library, the Clerk explained that he had not had time to call a meeting of the committee. He, however, read a letter he had received from Mr Jones, the secretary of the Dowlais Chamber of Trade, intimating that the subject of the proposed free library bad been brought under the notice of that body, andthe had to inform the Mer- thyr Chamber that they were ready to meet the Mer- thyr committee, but that they would do nothing towards promoting a free library unless Dowlais 1 derived the same benefit as Merthyr. In that case they would co-operate, and a committee would be appointed to meet the Merthyr committee and give their views in reference to the outlying districts.—Ou the proposition of the president, seconded by Mr Plews, the letter was referred to the Free Library Committee. POSTAL ARRANGEMENTS. The President said Mr Peter Williams had sent him a report of a meeting of the Liverpool Chamber of Com- merce, with a note stating that he was not able to be present, and asking that the Chamber might take action in the matter. The tirst part of the report referred to postal facilities between Liverpool and SVarrington and other places close by, and went on to ask for increased postal facilities as between Liverpool and South Wales. It stated in i he report that letters had to be posted in Liverpool in the af'ernoon in order to get delivered in Merthyr the next morning.—The Secretary said the question was whether by memorialis- ing or otherwise, they could assist the Liverpool Chamber.—The President: We must confine ourselves to South Wales.—Mr W. Meredith remarked that now in Merthyr they had not much to complain of. If a letter was posted at Merthyr at a quarter to five it would be delivered in Liverpool the next morning.- Mr Plews agreed with this remark, and thought the Liverpool people were labouring under a mistake.—Tbe President: I do not think we can complain.—The Secretary, referring to the offer made by lie London and North-Western Railway Company to carry the north mail letters on their line, said Mr Bishop had stated that letters now had to be posted af. 12 in the day in North and South Wales, in order to get them delivered the next day. If the mails were carried by the London and North-Western Railway, that Company would be willing to accelerate their trains for the pur- pose -The President Does it mean any more expense? If so the Postmaster-General would not be in favour of it.-Mr Plews replied that of course it would cause more expense.—The President I should be sorry to increase the taxation of the country for so small a matter —Mr Plews said they had recently got a concession, and now by posting letters at Merthyr at a quarter to five they were delivered in the North the next morning. — L>r Dyke: But they say th it letters posted there in the evening do not get here till I he middle of next day.—Mr Plews That is a great mis- take. They are under a misapprehension. — The President Having had this improvement so recently. I do not feel inclined to move in the matter. I think we are more likely to get what we want if we are not troubling them continually.—Mr W. Meredith urged what they really wanted was a better second London day mail, in the morning-the other facilities were very good.—Mr E. P. Biddle moved that the matter be left in abeyance.—Mr J. W. James did not think they should deal with the matter in that way. —Mr D. Evans The Liverpool people are not asking us to do anything.—The President: Let Mr Peter Williams bring the matter forward if he likes.— rhe Secretary referred to another matter upon which Mr Bishop had spoken to them, the mails between Carm irthen and this district. It was proposed to carry the Carmarthen mails in the evening vid Llandilo, Llandovery, and Craven Arms. By that means persons in Carmarthen, instead of having to post letter at three aud four o'clock in order that they might be delivered next day, would be able to post them up to 5.50.-The matter was allowed to drop. THE RAILWAY COMMUNICATION AT CARDIFF. The President, in reporting further progress with respect to the application before the Railway Com- missioners to compel the making of a through railway communication between the two stations at Cardiff, said that the two companies had sent in their answers, but at their request, the hearing of the matter had been adjourned. Both Companies practically admitted the grievance, still it would be necessary to have some evi- dence that the people wanted this convenience, and that the matter had not been taken up as a personal one. The petition now stood for hearing on the 26tb April. He must say that they need not be much afraid of the Commissioners, who held a pretty tight rein on the companies. The Commisssioners never consented to au adjournment without the promoters of the petition having also consented. He did not think they (the Chamber) would consent to any more adjournments.— Both Companies seemed perfectly willing to make the junction, but they could not agree as to the terms.- The Secretary said Lord Abetdare would willingly have attended before the Commissioners to give evidence, but unfortunately he would not be in London on that day.—The President said Mr W. T. Lewis, and Mr Charles James, M. P., would be there. He had also tried to get Mr Crawshay, but they could not succeed. Mr Clark, also, could not be present that day, Mr Menelaus would willingly have attended, but he could not possibly leave the works. I n the course of some subsequent conversation, the President remarked that what they would have to take care about was that the Taff Vale Railway Co. did not make passengers change at the Crockherbtown Station, iustead of running them down to the Great Western Station, and to see that they had a sufficient number of through coaches.—Mr Plews If it fa mooted we must look after that. The Council then adjourned.

FLORILINE!—FOE THE TBETH AND BRBATH.—A. few drop of the liquid "Floriiine sprinkled on a wet tooth-brush pro duces a pleasant lather, which thoroughly cleanses the teeth from all parasites or impurities, hardens the gums, prevents tartar, stops decay, gives te the teeth a peculiar pearly white- ness, and a delightful fragrance to the breath. It removes all unpleasant odour arising from decayed teeth or tobacco smoke. "The Fragrant Floriline." being composed in part of Honey and sweet herbs, is delicious to the taste, and the greatest toilet discovery of the age. Price 2s 6d. of all Chemists and Perfumers. Wholesale depot removed to 33, Farringdon Road, London. 1568 R ADVIOK TO MOTHERS !-Are you broken In your rest by a sick child suffering with the pain of cutting teeth ? Go at once to a chemist and get a bottle of Mas. WINSLOW'S SOOTHING SYRUP. It will relieve the poor sufferer immedi- ately. It is perfectly harmless and pleasant to taste it pro- duces natural, quiet sleep, by relieving the child trom pain, and the little cherub awakes as bright a button. It soothes the child, it softens the gums, allays all pain, relieves wind. regulates the bowels, and is the best known remedy for dysentery and diarrhcBa, whether arising from teething or other causes. Mrs. Winslow's Soothing Syrup is sold by Medicine dealers everywhere at 111. lid. per bottle. 156s VALUABLE DISCOVERT FOR THK HAIR.—It your hair is turning jrey or white, or falling off, use THS MBXICAN H UR RENEWER, for; it will potitively restore in very < u»e Grey or Whtte Mair to its original colour without leaving the disagreeable smell of mcst Restorers." It makes the hair charmingly beautiful, as well as promoting the growth of the hair, n baia spots, where the glands r.re not decayed. Ask your Chemist for "THE MEXICAN HAIR RKNKWKR," sold by JhemiM.8 and Perfumers everywhere at 38 lid per bottle. Wholesale depot removed to 33, Farringdou Road, London. 1563 THROAT AFFECTIONS AND HOARSKKHSS.—All suffering from irritation of the throat and hoarseness will be agreeably sur- prised at the almost immediate relief afforded by the use of Brown's Bronchial Troches." These lamous "lozenges "are now sold by most respectable chemists in this country at Is. lid. per box. People troubled with a "hackingcough,"a"slig t oold, or bronchial affections, cannot try them too soon, as similar troubles, if allowed to progiess, result in serious Pul- monary and Asthmatic affections. See thatthe words "Brown's Bronchial Troches" are on the Government Stamp around ucn box.—Prepared by JOHN 1. BROWN & SoNsv Bo-too U.S. European depot removid to 33, JFarrisgdon Roadp London. tfgg <

MERTHYR SCHOOL BOARD. At the fortnightly meeting of this Board on Friday, the members present were Messrs W. L. Daniel (who occupied the chair), W, Bell, Henry Evans, D. Davies, and the Revs. J. M. Bowen, J. E. Tunney, D. Griffiths, and J. Williams. THE RETIREMENT OF THE CHAIRMAN. The minutes of the previous meeting having been confirmed, a report was read from the General Purposes Committee, stating that they bad considered the letter of the chairman referred to them by the Board at their last meeting to draw up a reply thereto. The Com- mittee having had the letter before them, beg to re- commend the following special minute for adoption :— It is with very great regret that the board receive the letter of Mr G. T. Clark, tendering his resignation as a mem- ber and as the chairman of this boaid, for they cannot forget that he alone has continued a member from the first board elected on the loth of March, 18 1, until the present time. Many difficulties had arisen during that period, but with the large and vdriel experience of their chairman, the board invariably found him a wise councilor, and cannot now but feel with him a certain pride that the schools of the parish have done so well as indi ated in his l"tter. The board some yeirs ago willingly relieved him of committee work, and now would most gladly permit him to come and take his accustomed chair, whenever his health permits, if he will but consent If, hewever, that be impossible—though they hope not the board in either case feel it to be their duty to place on record their great gratitude to him for his long and faith- ful service at this board, and they sincerely trust that the assurance of the great help he has for many years been able to render in promoting the educational interests of this parish, first by the very excellent schools of the Dowlais works, and next in connection with the school board, will give him true pleasure, and be some little compensation for his labours. especially as he sees the-e schools stand so well in comparison with the other schuols of the kingdom The board thanks him also for his un varying liberality in years past. in granting the use cf the admirable rooms of the Dow- lais School, with Are, gas, and cleaning gratis, for the use of the science classes, The letter which he issued at the com- mencement of the past'year seis forth sojfuily and completely the w'rli done by the board up to that time that reiteration is not needed During hu term of ollice school aoommodation for 4, HO children has been provided, the childten in the schools are beinic carefully taught, and all is now working well. If, however, he must retire, the board feel that he will not be doing so unt 1 after many of tHe diffi ulties necessarily connected with providing school accommodation for the parish, a,.d setting the educational machinery in order had been overcome, but the Board still cling to the hope that he may yet see his way clear to adopt their suggestion, andretaln his seat amongst them, at least for the present. The Rev J. Williams moved, and Mr W. Bell seconded, the adoption of the report.—Mr Bell: I take it it that a copy of the report will be sent to the chair- man. Mr Daniel I'hat will be a separate motion when the report is adopted—The Committee's report having been coutiruied, it was resolved, on the motion of Mr Bell,seconded by the Rev. J. M. B&wen.thata copy of the same be sent to Mr Clark. THE SCIENCE AND ART CLASSES. It was reported by the Science and Art Committee as follows:—" 1. The Committee met at the Board-room, Workhouse, on the 7th April, and had before them a letter from the Science and Art 'Jej^artment relative to the report of the inspector, General Goddard, at his re- Criut visit. The Committee regarded the report as very unsatisfactory, and having communicated its contents to the teachei, desired the cierk to again ask the mem- bers of the Committee to visit the classes as frequently as possible, and to write to the Department that the Committee h id noted the matters referred to, and given instructions accordingly. '—Ihe Chairman: I beg to move the report be adopted.—.Vlr H,ury Evans: Can a copy of the inspector's report be sent to the members? The Chairman observed that the report was rather a long one, but it could oe sent round.—Mr Evans: I think it would be advisable. — Tile Chairman said an abstract of the report was sent round about six weeks ago. This visit of the inspector was a surprise one, and in consequence a report was sent down to the Com- mittee, aud the report was certainly very severe. J t was suggested that the members of the Board, who were members of the Science and Art Committee also, should attend the clasa as much as possible. He hoped the Dowlais members would look after the classes in that district, as it was rather difficult for others to go to Dowlais to do so. —Mr U. Davies remarked that it was ouly fair, 011 behalf of the members who did not attend all the CIISIICS, to say that they were not at- tended by the studeuts as they should be. and that those who attended did not hehave themselves as well as they might. The teacher had toid them that if a few of the members attended the classes his hands would be strenKtueued and the students would behave better. -The Uleik exuiainrd that the classes would now soon be over, because the examination took place in May, when the classes would be closed for the sessiou. -The Ch-tirman Air Stephens will write rouud to ail the members, asking them to attend as much as possible. Mr Kvans And cnmJ you not send roCiud a summary of the inspector's report as well? —Ihe Clerk I will seud the report.—Mr Davies asked if it could not be so arranged that one member could atteud each uight. T&e Chairman said this had before been sug- gested. —l'he matter was leit in the bauds of the clerk to wrlLe to the members aud arrauge a rota committee. SCHOOL ii ^NAftEMKNT COMMITi'Kli's REPORT. The School Mauagemeut Committee reported that they had met ou the 7cu April, and bad before them 12 applications for the mistress-ship of Clwydyfagwr scnool. Haviug read aud carefully considered the same the commltLee recommend that Miss Emily Danes, Hirwam, and Aiiss Margaret Lewis, Dowlais, Oe desired In appear before the Board at their next uieetiug,— The report was adopted. ABtCKCAiSAID SCHOOL. A letter was read from the architect, Mr John Williams, stating that Mr J. Francis had applied for Ul8 customary moutuly draw on account of his contract for the Abercati.ud school, Although he was not eutitled to it, tne arcmtect recommeuded that he be paid another J:;lOO, leaving £ 25J still due under the contract, which iu his opiuiou Was quite enough to cover the completion of tue building. At the rate the contractor was going on the buildings would not be completed for the next two months.—Mr lieli asked ill what position they were in with regard to the penalties for the non-completion of the contract?—The Chair- wan: When should the school have been finished ?— the Cierk In December la-dt. The Chairman said Ibey granted Mr Francis some little concession of time on account of tne bad weather.—Mr Bell observed that they had good weather for building now. If the archi- tect certified that tne contractor could do double the work he was doing they should euforce the penalties.— Mr D. Davies I move that we graut tue .£100, as recommended by the architect, and give him another warning. Mr Bell said he would second this.—The motion was then agreed to, and it was then resolved that the clerk should summon a meeting of the com- mittee to meet the contractor and architect at the Abercanaid school.—Mr Bell: We have given notice to give up the other budding, and if we do not get the uew school in time we shall be in a tix.—Mr D. Davies observed that the sooner Mr Stephens invite the com- mittee to meet the contractor the better. — l'he subject then dropped. THE EASTER HOLIDAYS. The Clerk remarked that it had been customary to give the schools a week's holiday at Kaster. -Some of the schools, however, were being examined in Easter week, and these must take their holiday afterwards.— It was decided that the usual week's holiday at Easter be given to the children. THE HOURS OF ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL. The Chairman said there was one matter mentioned at the School Management Committee on the previous day, and he mentioned it then in order that toe clerk might explain what had been done. It appeared that complaints had been made that some of the younger children had been ordered to school at half-past eight in the morning, and Kept in until a quarter to one, in distiuct violation of the resolution of the Board some mouths ago, which stated that the school hours should be from nine and not Liter than 12.30 in the morning, and from two till five in the afternoon. Now, Air Stephens was not exactly iu a position to let them know on Thursday what had been done, but he tuought he would now tell them, so that the parents might know, and not unduly reflect upon the teachers. — ihe Clerk said it was simply this. Her Majesty's inspectors, in order to get through the work, fixed the commencement of the schools at 8.30, and the teachers a few days before, desiring to get the children accustomed to that hour, told them to come at that time. iuere were no infants told to come to the school at half-past eight.- i he Chairman: It Was ouly done for a little time before the examination to get ou the backward ones ?—the Clerk Yes, some are a week or so behind.—Ihe Chairman It will be understood this will not be carried on after the examinations ?—The Clerk No.—Mr Bell; That removes the difficulty.— The Itev J. E. Tunyey ooserved that the complaint should be made against the inspectors and not against the teachers. The Board then adjourned. ♦ Tie annual competition for the Marquis of Queent- berry's Challenge Cups for boxing took place at Lillie Bridge on Saturday afternoon. The light- weight competition was won by E. B. Mitchell, London; middle weight, T. P. Bellhouse, Man- chester heavy weight, G. Fryer, Nottingham. Sir Henry Tyler presented the Royal Lifeboat In- stitution's medal, at Harwich, on Saturday, to the lifeboat crew who did such gallant service during the storms of January last. Captain Nepean. the district inspector of lifeboats, was presented with a gold medal, and the rest of the crew with silver medals. The London Gazette announces that the Queen has appointed Sir Hercules Robinson, Sir Evelyn Wood and Sir John Henry de Villiers, Chief Justice of the Cape of Good Hope. to be her Majesty's Commis- sioners to enquire into, and report upon, all matters relating to the future settlement of the Transvaal territory. Early on Saturday morning two goods trains came into collision near Wellow, Bath station, on the Someiset and Dorset Railway. The drivers, George Dark and Robert Toogood, escaped without serious injury, but both engines left the. rails and were greatly damaged. The line was blocked, and the trains tabled to start 011 Saturday morning were cancelled. The Cologne Gatette says that a colossal statue of the Norw-egian poet Herik Wergeland, who was born in 1808 and died in 1846, has been ereeted at Christiania, on the Jfidawoldsplatz, opposite the Storthing. It is to b. unveiled on the 17th of May —the date on which, in 1814, the first Norwegian Storthing, AT Eidtfwold, ACCEPTED THE N^TIGNAL O&N. ■ J'

MERTHYR BOARD Of GUARDIANS. At the weekly meeting of this Board on Saturday, Mr R. H. Rhys (vice-chairman), presided. The other members present were—Messrs J. Lewis, D. P. Davies, Owen Harris, D. Davies (Merthy.r), C. E. Matthews, W. Beddoe, D. hT. Lewis. T. Davies, D. E. Williams, J. W. James, T. Edwards, T. Kees, T. Lloyd, Lewis Evans, Rees Evans, or. Martin, W. Powell, W. Little, W. Bell, L. D. Rees. W. D. Lewis, R. T. Griffiths, and the Rev Aaron Davies. RELIEF STATISTICS. The amount given in out-relief during the past week was as follows :— Aberdare, £62 7* lUd Gelligaer, JE24 6i 3d; Merthyr (upper), JE64 38 2d; Merthyr (lower), .t:;fi4 Is Id; iion-settied, £1 Is—total £201 19s 4d. There was a balance in the pay-clerk's hands of £ 9 128 lOd, and a cheque for £200 was granted for the ensuing week. It was reported from the superintendent's journal that at the Aberdare training school there had been one admitted and one discharged during the week, leaving the number of children in the institution 133, against 139 in the corresponding week of last year. There were 89 children under industrial training—40 boys and 46 girls. The master of the workhouse reported that there had, during the week, been 16 admitted, one born, 24 discharged, and none dead, leaving the number of inmates 213. a comparative decrease of 21. There had been 11 applications, making 15 ordered in by the Board on the previous week, but none had come in dur- ing the week from that order. The Chairman said he hoped the guardians had taken notice of the figures above given. The in-door pauperll were diminishing, whilst the out-door ones were in- creasing. Out of 15 offered the house last week not one of them would come in. He thought these were facts the guardians should take notice of. VACCINATION REPORT. The Union was reported entirely free from small-pox. and during the week there had been 21 cases of vaccina- tion at Aberdare, aod 27 at Merthyr. PROPOSED ABOLITION OF THE OFFICE OF PARISH OVEKSEER. The Clerk read a circular letter from the Salford Union, asking the Merthyr Board to support a memorial in favour of the abolitiun of the of parochial Over- seer, and the handing over of the duties of the office to the assessment committee or some other authority.— The Clerk remarked that he thought the memorial wa. a fad, and that it would be a wrong thing to do away with the office of overseer.—The Chairman I do not think they can saddle much more .upon the guardians. — Mr J. W. James rather coincided with the principle of doing away with overseers. It appeared that a great saving could be effected, and with regard to the election of overseers it was a sham. (Hear, hear.) In fact, it was disgusting altogetl1er. (L:1u¡.{hter.) They called together a meeting of the ratepayers in the vestry, nominated persons as overseers, and then after- wards the magistrates couldiselect whom they liked.- 1 he Chairman: I beg your pardon; they select from the list sent tiieua.—Mr J. W. James: Yes bub it is not the majority of the ratepayers that send in the list of persons.—The Chairman Then you are wrong.—Mr James referred to the expense incurred, and thought that one single set of officers could collect all the rates. —Mr D. Davies (Merthyr): Hear, hear.—The Chair- man But you give Mr Goodfellow a good salary now. Mr James: I do not wish to say anything about Mr Goodfellow, but I think that one officer can do the work.—The Chairman: Will you consider the matter next week?—Mr J. W. James We may not be here next week. (Laughter.)—Mr D. Davies (Merthyr) said he could bear out what Mr James had said that the appointment of overseers was a sham. Sometimes they had to go out from the vestry and get persons to form a quorum.—The Chairman I have an answer for that. — Mi Davies No doubt; you have an answer for every. thing. The ma.gistrate8 had the appointment of the overseers afterwards, aud it was a sham for them to meet in the vestry for the purpose. He would like to see the office abolished, tie might say this, that he thought some of their officials had a good deal too much time on their hands. He thought they should open their eyes, and not allow officials to interfere in an election. Government officials were not allowed to take part in any elections whatever. He (the speaker) did not fear much. Dr James seemed to fear being returned, but he hUIlself had nu fear.—Mr James Lewis said it seemed to him that Messrs James and Davies had made out no case, except as to the mode of conducting things in Merthyr. lie thought they had made out a clear case that the way iu which things were done in Merthyr was a sham, but be did not think they should blame the magistrates.—Mr Davies I do not blame the magistrates.—Mr Lewis said it was open for the ratepayers to meet and nominate the best men they could find as overseers, therefore it was their fault if good and titting men were not appointed. tie did not know anything about what Mr Davies had sai'i. but he seemed to have a good deal on his wind which was uot quite dear 'to other members, but with regard to the doins away with the office uf overseer, he thought they could as well leave that matter until some legisla- tion was taking place. 1\11' G08chen, in his dill SOUle years ago, proposed to amalgamate the office of over- seer with .others, and thus4a saving might be effected. It WaM probable that the present Government might raise this very question.—Mr Davies I am very glad Mr Lewis has such cUilfidence iil the present Govern- ment.—The Chairman said the fact was that the appointment of overseers was a very old custom and per>lons Wdre appointed in various numbers for the different hamlets in a parish. A list of names was sent to the magistrates, from which they selected wbolIl they thought proper. If the ratepayers did not think it worth while to attend tbe vestry meetings, and vote or demand a poll, they must not grumble, but if proper steps were taken in Merthyr they would get persons 'selected by a majority of the ratepayers selected by the magistrates. This might be a cumbrous mode of elec- tion, hut it was one tney had had for many years, and one which had worked satisfactorily. He had no very great opinion of the office of overseer at the present time. The duties were vnry much diminished. Years ago they were very onerous, but now they were very much diminished to what they were, the principal business being to make rates. He did not think the assessment committee could do the work of the over- seers. He did not say but that there should be some scheme for an amalgamation of the rates, and then pay- iog what was requirtjd by precept fur the Board of Guardians and School Board. (Hear, bear.) Now the poor-rates were used for different purposes, aod one- half did not go to the relief of the poor. H<* iAought it was a great hardship that this should be su* because persons believed it was the extravagance of the guardians in sending up the rates so high, bat it waa nothing of the kind. The school board rate in Merthyr was 5d or 6d, in Aberdare 4 £ d, and in Gelligaer a shilling, all of which had to come out of the poor-rate. The Burial Board, also, had a right to issue a precept upon the overseers for [money, so that quite half the rates levied for the poor was not used for that purpose. This might be a convenient way, but he thought the best mode of dealing with the matter was by amalga- mating the rates, and issuing the money by precept. He should not at present recommend them to Rupport the motion for the abolition of overseers until some other scheme was devised.—Mr C. E. Matthews asked, for his own information whether it was the custom of the magistrates to appoint any other persons than the names submitted to them?—The Chairman: Not that I know of. If they are not satisfied with the list they may send it back.—The subject was then allowed to drop. SHE RESIGNATION OF THE CHAIRMAN. The Clerk read a very voluminous letter, laying his resignation before the Board, from Mr G. T. Clark, the chairman. The following is a pretty complete summary of the lengthened document:— "44, Berkeley-square, London, W., 2nd April, 1881. "To the Members of the Merthyr Tydtil Board of Guardians. "Gentlemen,—In April, 1859, 22 years ago, your predecessors, guardians of the poor for the Union of Merthyr Tydfil, placed me in their chair, and since that time I have received annually the same honour at the hands of each succossive board. Twenty-two years ago I was in the vigour, if not of youth, yet of mature life, whereas now L have passed beyoud the three score and ten years allotted to man, and am not without my share of til" three well-known wfnmfrigs whICb. attend upon old age. I have, therefore, both for your sake and my own, decided not again to be a candidate foe your suffrages, and, in retiring from office, I desire to acknowledge to you, and thiough you to your pre- decessors, the steady support aud uniform kindness that I have all along received, unbroken, I t&nk, by a single incident that can cause regret ta you or me. These 22 years have seen great changes, both in the inhabitants of Merthyr and in the industry by which they are supported. Of the eight ironworks, which in 1859 were in full activity, four have been closed for many and two for several years, and a seventh, also for a time closed, has only recently beeu re-opened. This, in a manufacturing district, is the staple industry, and is always looked upon as the most durable of the district. Only one establishment haa continued its operations unchecked. These changes have caused great, and often rapid fluctuations in the wages and the demand for labour, and have at times severely affected the value and stability of that description of property whence the rates levied in the Union have mainly been derived. On the other hand, the coal trade, 22 years ago, confined to a few hrws. has enormously expanded, and though also subject to serious fluctuations, has, on the whole, contributed largdy to the valuejof rateable property, has reduce the balance against us, caused by the falling off iu the iron trade, and has thus tended materially to '^hten the incidence of the rates upon each ordinary *contri- butor. These variations in the earnings of & population of whom about 7-lUth are dependent upy0n their daily labours, have affected very materially the condltiona under which the duties of thelguar^ng havtJ betn discharged. Any circumstance, b'jWever 8ijght> that touches the great mass of our por ulation ig a 6ouCe felfc by the Board the claims for re'llef, and the quality and amount of the relief administered, form a direct exponent ot the condition of the people, at beat far more delicate in its indi0iUion8 than .be records of the police court, because, affecting far larger numbers, in which must be included the wllole of that very con- siderable class of persons who, from idle habits, mtuunity, or age, make no provision for the future, and when every depression of trade brings at once upon the poor rate, though it by no means follows that a revival removes them iiom dependence upon it. The paot 22 years have abo witnessed considerable changesin the laws governing the relief of the poor. There is scarcely a branch of the duties of the guardians that has not undergone some alteration, and, 1 am bound to say, in ilmost every instance tor the better. I propose on (bu, the laet ocoaaioo 0, vrhic41 shall have to adikeaf