Page:Ragged Trousered Philanthropists.djvu/298

The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists should take over the drain connecting Mr Sweater's house with the town main. Mr Sweater, being a public spirited man, proposed to present this connecting drain, which ran through a private road, to the Corporation, to be theirs and their successors' for ever, on condition that they would pay him the cost of construction—£55—and agree to keep it in proper repair. After a brief discussion it was decided to take over the drain on the terms offered, and then Councillor Didlum proposed a vote of thanks to Alderman Sweater for his generosity in the matter. This was promptly seconded by Councillor Rushton, and would have been carried ''nem. con.'' but for the disgraceful conduct of Dr Weakling, who had the bad taste to suggest that the amount was about double what the drain could possibly have cost to construct, that it was of no use to the Corporation at all, and that they would merely acquire the liability to keep it in repair.

However, no one took the trouble to reply to Weakling, and the Band proceeded to the consideration of the next business, which was Mr Grinder's offer on behalf of the Cosy Corner Refreshment Company to take the Kiosk on the Grand Parade. Mr Grinder submitted a plan of certain alterations that he would require the Corporation to make at the Kiosk, and, provided the Council agreed to do this work, he was will-to take a lease of the place for five years at £20 per year.

Councillor Didlum proposed that the offer of the Cosy Corner Refreshment Company Ltd. be accepted, and the required alterations proceeded with at once. The Kiosk had brought in no rent for nearly two years, but apart from that consideration, if they accepted this offer they would be able to set some of the unemployed to work. (Applause).

Councillor Rushton seconded.

Dr Weakling pointed out that, as the proposed alterations would cost about £175 according to the estimate of the borough engineer, and the rent being only £20 a year, it would mean that the council would be £75 out of pocket at the end of the five years, to say nothing of the expense of keeping the place in repair during all that time. (Disturbance). He moved as an amendment that the alterations be made, and that they then invite tenders, and let the place to the highest bidder. (Great uproar).

Councillor Rushton said he was disgusted with the attitude taken up by that man Weakling. (Applause). Perhaps it was 286