Page:Ragged Trousered Philanthropists.djvu/299

The Brigands at Work hardly right to call him a man (hear, hear). In the matter of these alterations they had had the use of Councillor Grinder's brains; it was he who first thought of making these improvements in the Kiosk, and therefore he, or rather the company he represented, had a moral right to the tenancy. (Loud cheers).

Dr Weakling said that he thought it was understood that when a man was elected to that council it was because he was supposed to be willing to use his brains for the benefit of his constituents. (Sardonic laughter).

The Mayor asked if there was any seconder to Weakling's amendment, and as there was not, the original proposition was put and carried.

Councillor Rushton suggested that a large shelter with seating accommodation for about two hundred persons should be erected on the Grand Parade near the Kiosk. The shelter would serve as a protection against rain, or the rays of the sun in summer; it would add materially to the comfort of visitors, and would be a notable addition to the attractions of the town.

Councillor Didlum said it was a very good idear, and proposed that the surveyor be instructed to get out the plans.

Dr Weakling opposed the motion (laughter): it seemed to him that the object was to benefit, not the town, but Mr Grinder (disturbance). If this shelter were erected it would increase the value of the Kiosk as a refreshment bar by a hundred per cent. If Mr Grinder wanted a shelter for his customers he should pay for it himself (uproar). He (Dr Weakling) was sorry to have to say it, but he could not help thinking that this was a put-up job. (Loud cries of 'withdraw,' 'apologize,' 'turn 'im out,' and terrific uproar).

Weakling did not apologize or withdraw, but he said no more. Didlum's proposition was carried, and the 'Band' went on to the next item on the agenda, which was a proposal by Councillor Didlum to increase the salary of Mr Oyley Sweater, the Borough Engineer, from fifteen pounds to seventeen pounds per week.

Councillor Didlum said that when they had a good man they ought to appreciate him (applause). Compared with other officials, the Borough Engineer was not fairly paid (hear, hear). The magistrate's clerk received seventeen pounds a week, and the Town Clerk, seventeen pounds per week. 287