The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

Tregaron County School. f ANNUAL PRIZE DISTRIBUTION. Tlo annual "prize distributicci of the Tre- «&T<n County School took pace on Friday at Bwlchgwynt Schoolroom. Thoso present 'inaladerj Mrg, Morgan, Llanddewi (chairman of the Governors) who presided. Mrs. Dr. Lloyd, Mie- Jonk ns (Trecefel), Professor E. Edward.* "(miyor ctf Aberystwyth), the Rev. J. N. Evtns (rect-cr of Cellan), the Rev. T. Jones (yita.T of Tregaron), Mr Thomas Jones (Post Oflce), Mr. D. D. Eva;ns, J.P., Mr. Rees Joaes, Mr J. T. Rees, Mus. Bac., Mr. Morgan Morgans (clerk to the Governors), Mr. Jenkin Lfyd, Mr. T. M. Griffiths (L'anfair), Mr. Dd. 'Dos (Cambrian House), together with the hers and the Headmaster. Mrs. Morgan, in her opening address, said although twenty-two years had passed sftce the first, amnual meeting, yet there were. -8»De present that day who were a.t the first meeting. Since then a. great, many changes I )ad taken place and the school had pros- jered beyond their expectation. The stall of lie school had been changed so much that •jow only the Headmaster remained of the old itafi. Wheal the school started the boys were greatly in the majority, but now things had altered and the girls predominated. A won. ierful increase had taken place in tho girls department and some day one of the girls might become a member of Par'iomfnt. (Applause.) It was as important to give a good schooling as to give boys. It was the girls who would have charge of the chi dren of the future, and bv having good education they Would be able toO- teach ther children when they became mothers. Girls also needed edu- cating more than boys because they were weaker and not so well equipped. Whatever the future held for them in the way of hon- ors or success, th-y should always remember the motto" watch and pray." In the race of life there was a. lot of petty jealousy, but I that could be overcome to a great extent by «u ti^ating sweet- humble hearts to go with plessant faces. They should cheer their fellow beings even though they beat them in the e of life. "Look up, laugh, and bo merry, I and the road cf life will be so much easier." ate concluded. (Applause.) I The Headmaster (Mr. J. T. Lewis, M.A.), refcd his annual report as follows: Jtrs. Morgan, our very respected lady the ehtir; Piofessor Edwards and Mr Evans, our worthy visitors. Ladies, and Gentlemen, This is the twenty-third annual report of the Tre- garon County School. Last session was prob- ably the severest test of the stability and grit of the staff and pupils ever experienced by us, as owing to the influenza epidemic we were dosed for over "ght weeks during the first term and this when we were only just started seriously -with the work of the year, so we htd to practically do three terms' work in However, I am glad to that the school oamo out of the ordeal very satisfac- torily, as the results wtich I shal presently r,ad, will prove. Owinp to the closing of the .411001 we failed to giv, our amnual dramatic performance and enteriainment, but we have tJiis year made up the Ids'5 by performing two e"1ta.tas and a Welsh drama, composed by the (grf'ior pupils of the sthoo1, an achievement of me rarity amongst counitf schools. Somo I you who saw the performance last night irill agree with me that it went off extremely ffell. Our annual Dewi Eisteddfod took place as usual, and it. is interesting to see that the eisteddfod at Tregaron County School has -nry strong hold on the affections of both staff and pupi's. Another pleasing f ature is the fact that our old pupils keep up t-ae cisteddfodie. spirit f-fter leaving school. At the the fact that our old pupils keep up the cisteddfodie. spirit f-fter leaving school. At the last U.C.W. (Aberystwyth) eisteddfod several of them were found among the prize winners. Again, at the Corwcm National Eisteddfod, Griffith John Williams, M.A., cf Ccl-an, an illifctrious old boy took three prizes in open eompetition for poetry, whereas his brother, Datfd Mathew Williams, took the prize for a. poem written by a person under twenty. The latter only left school in July, 1918. after gaining the fit* place in Wales in the C-W B. examination and gaining the senior MholarshiD a.t øe C.W.B. entrance examina- tion. ConsiderPg the prominence given to the Welsh drama and the eisteddfod, and by means of the latter, to poetry, mus'.c, etc,, ma wo not moderately claim that our school initiate) into its pupils a patriotism which is the vfy best <J*Pr ? 9«i' Literary and Debating Socfty, as well as thc fortnightly concerts held luring the Lent term proved as successful as ever, and they were well pat- ronised, a "fe large percentage of the pupils taking part. Our footba'l and hockey have once more into their own, and this year we have really very good teams. Both the girls and bojj have scored victories over neighbouring Clunty school teams. During the past session were fortunate in being f "reoogn'sed by the Board of Education for gher gr3.nt6. We tliv TYVsr 1Ictfoot. io the county lelected, anj we feel justly proud of the 11onotr. There are grants of S400 per annum givttf to a school to pursue hipher I' etudics. Thfro are a. dozen purr Is attending ibis higher course at the present time. and seem* to be doing well, and one happy resu't j of their efl>rts is the composition of a Welsh drama—previously mentioned—dealing with the period cohering the Welsh and history they are specially studying. Another im- Dortant fsult. a the fart that Mr/ J tr. ipts, Mus. Bse, now put on to take tree extra classes in the theory of music, so a pupil attending school for a ■period, sai of four years, should acquire a very I sound knowledge of music-a. source of great refinement In connection with the hi<rh»r course w0 appointed a new teacher—Mr. John Lloyd, itfA, of Barmouth. 1!r. Lloyd fame j to us wif a big reputation for the excellent work ho Jàd done at Barmouth County School and we fel certain he will prove a great acquisit-io) to us at Tregaron County School. I am Rtnl we ",1} extend to him our heartiest welcome. On the whole we think this school is in ai healthy state in every respect. There obinf; a beautiful sprit of loyalty throughoi^- The statY and ounils thoroughly understaif' each other, and good fellowship abounds, fucecss must inevitably follow. With twrnty-ty^ years' at Tregaron, I think I safely say I havo never felt happer r'Ka.rding the school. The public also veaJise good name we hold, and they send is pupils ill increased numbers. There are now close Upal 160 scholars on the school roll. It «onc]usiotf I wish to publicly thank my col- leagues, and all, for their most loyal co- oporat on at all times, also toh. Governors and Clerk for>their continual kindness aad sym- pathy. Ilun also glad of th opportunity thank lh Powell, Nanteoa, for kindly giving us tho loP of vury valuable clotlies for perforrnaW0 of tha drajna. as well as 01ny other friths too numerous to mention, who liave tssisP^ t13. Professd Edward Edwards «aid it wm t1.r;¡ first tilDe haí. ho had had the privilege of addressingthe school children whon a lady was tin the chr, He was always very 5h1- (laughter)^but that day he leit extremely nervous, tllcl especially a/ter hearing ih* splendid sfecch given by the ladj in opening. It was thf third time be had attended tb. annual -distribution, but it ths first time hat hie appearance- had been attended by wither. (Laughter.) lie was sur- prised lo licar Hie Headmaster say that it was his tw>nty-thi:d annual report because he looked so young; but no doubt the praise for it was due to s wife. (T/xughtar.) He was sllrprised to hear that the girls had dons t'lO well; Th06(' wlP were at the meeting twenty- two yuan; ago viould hardly have be ieved it possible for thl school to do so wen and he re^yvod to Ba1 that, no on present that day could predict the state of the sciiont iw ten years time. H< was particularly pl«ass<| to Jarkw that th» s'hool had won higher grafts and lie liopel that the boys and girls -wOTi'd prove worthy J the honour. This would onb he possible by bad work. It; was good to know that so many had won honours for music and also cookey. He was not sura -whether he heard that one of the boys had won a certifica-e for cipkery. (Laughter.) It •woidd be nice, sometirrf* when the w fe was ill, to know that the hu £ *nd haj won a certi- ficate for cookery. He lad. food dtal to do with old pupils from fregaron who came to Alirvstwyth College. He^e'ieved there wero hundreds there. In fact, wherever he turned he met children from tho Tregaron school. The Tregaron Governors t.he best iv th country to do cveryth?? for promotiof the success and prosperity of the school. It was a Tregaron boy who d been elected Principal of the College—(cheJ^—and he could sty that it was thp best poss' appointment; -a man imbued with the spilt of the Cardi- ganshire mountains, giftej w'fh foresight and tn the backbone. lIe k'4s the right man in the right place—a rni who loved to sec children of poor parents gating into ths College. (Clieers.) He (the spa^er) was glad to see Mr Lloyd from BarmofJ1 one of the best and *n authority on the language. A secondary school resembled a,gold tuine or a fscto-v where work was beingJon. because it was the place whrE) the kachfs pulled out the treasures from the minds children. It was not n. m'nc into which put their *noney and log in the sinking. TtWas a. minis that was going-to pay. The "best. refllure i. Wates was f.he treasure of the mill. v:a3 pi much treasury in those couties which ran down to the sea' as in any Ovhr district. ev v.-pj-e ('or 11 fvcnrnd in the uoentary school and then sent to tbeadaTy school to the teachers who knew how to tra.in education which was the hope of the future for Wales. Knowledge was tihe keynote of success, but it was not the knowledge which they ga ned by reading books. They certainly read books to gain knowledge and by so dfling earned distinction in the school; but there was a much more important treasure. It did not follow that a person with a B.A. or B.Sc. behind his name knew everything. It often proved the -intrary. To be successful they 7-iad to find out things outside the books. Whilst at the Aberayron School the other day he not ccd a great difference between those puni's and the pupi s at Tregaron. Why the difference? They were of the satme family and spoke the same language. The difference was due to one being bred in the heart of the mountain and the others bred by the sea. They were not learned if they knew more about the places abroad than the places in their neighbourhood. The man who said he knew everything knew nothing, whilst the man who thought he knew everything "9fM not much better. The man who said he didn't know anything was the man who knew most. There was a. lot to be learned from the beautiful mountains and flowers. It was necessary to use the heart as well as the head when work- ing. Nobody knew a boy so well as his school chums. If he cheated in school, he cheated outside, and if he was a sham in school he would be a. sham outside. If they won distinc- tions and possessed bad hearts, the dist nctions were won in vain. They should cultivate Godly habits, for the "Fer of the Lord is tho be- ginning of wisdom." According to the life they led in school so they would be in the future. In orler to grow up strong boys and girls they would have to meet great diffi- culties, but it would be better to meet them and conquer them than seek assistance from someone else. They would gain strength by fighting difficulties. To his mind the faults of the educational system was that th", way was made too easy. To-day the children knew nothing of the old time fight for education when students sat up until three and four o'clock in the morning trying to solve problems by themselves. Those were the men who won through at last. They looked to the boys and girls, with their many advantages, to carry on th work. The'r work should be made a pleasure by carrying the same spirit into it as they did when they played. By so doing they would keep true to themselves. As Welshmen and Welshwomen whatever success they attained in the world and wherever they went they should keep true to nature—the nature cf their country—and follow the lead of the great Wfh'Tiion who had possr-d away years before. The 1!vfn1wv wn« the only river in Wales to run east, but even that rive- turned back be- re-tching England, so whenever tliey went to England or France, or anywhere cut of the country, they should turn back occasionally from the smoke of the large, towns to Wales, the land of their birth. (Loud applause). The Rev. J. N. Evans he was glad to have the opportunity of meeting old faccs whom he had not secn for a long time. Among them was their distinguished friend, Professor Edwards, who since they last saw him had attained a position of honour and dignity in the town whore he lived. In spite of that, however, Le rema ned as unassuming as ever. Some men in such a position went up like a balloon and came down like a stone. Pro- fessor Edwards was not that type of diau j but the proper type of man who should be called upon to take part in the life and welfare of the community. Nothing was so much needed at present as wise and sane guidance in civic affafrs. He (tho speaker) was pleased to see tho pupils, as he had a grea.t interest in the school at the present in one particular pupil, and the highest he could pay to the school and its excellent staff was by saying he was particularly pleased with the training and progress of that pupil. The pupils ought to consider t a great privilege to have such a school in which they be trained. Three things he would like to m- press upon them. The first was the import- ance of work. They went to the school lirst and foremost to work to lav the foundation of their life's work. A sound foundation was most essential in building their future. The present was the sprngtimc of their opportuni- ties, if tho springtime was neglected the summer would be disappointing. They lived in peculiar times when work by llantl (1' brain was never more necessary. The future cf the country depended upon it. It was necessary to love work for its "Wn sake. Carole in one of his books said that the two men he honoured most was the workmen by hand and brain. If He was worth living, it was worth working for. Work wcu, part of their discipline, a,thou for. Work was part of their discipline, although perhaps they did not think so when sitting at their desks with all their trials and difficulties. An old Welsh poet had sa;d: Gosod eroesau ysgafn byntd Ar fy ysgwydd i'echaji way I'ru.hadÀys:pu i gytartoA- Crocsau trymach yn J man He (uie sneaker) would tell them the two happiest men be ever met. About tiiiity years ago, when the turnpike gates were in existence, he went into one of the turnpiko houses and there found the tollgate keeper diligent!,• read- iug Georgic's Virgo. That was one cf the happy men, and the ether was a tinker, at one tim0 head boy at Friar's School Bangor, who was reading "Homer," and revelled in the classics, after n, hard day's work mending pota and pans. Those two men loved learning for its own sake and were made extremely happy in their humble circles. The next point v") emphasse was to cultivate good manners. Manners made the man and also the woman. If their manners fail them they worw handi- capped in tho race of life. The Headmaster of the school was trying to turn out gentlemen and gentlewomen in the heart of Cardigan- shire. The third point was to train their powers of observation by keeping their eyes open to the historic features v. d clôp acter- istics of their own district. There was scarcely a parish in Wales without mounds, cairns. pis ties, or other relics of historical interest. If they found out about such things life would become, more inte.i-eKf ng to them. They would not only live in the present, but also the past, like a vast panorama, would unfold itself be- fore them with its lessons of patience, en- couragement and hope, helping them "over the top." This would make it possible for them to become a. credit to the school, a. blessing to tho home, and a strength to their country. (Applause) Vr, Thomas Jones proposed a vote of thanks to tbe speakers and this was seconded by the Headmaster, who referred in happy terms to the interest taken by Professor Edwards and the Rev. J. N. Evans n the school. The following prize-winners were uiTested by Professor Edwards and tho Rev. J. N. Evans:—Form V.: Form, William David Edwards; English, William David Edwards: languages, leuan Jones; mathematics and science, John Morgan. Form IV.: Form, Khys Evans; English, Jdwa.1 Ceredig Evans; lan- guages, Sibyl H'rst; mathematice nnd science, David Maldwyn Jenkyns. Form III. Form and languages, Mary Anne Evans; English mathematics and science, Mary Anna Evans; second languages, Nancy Williams; sectnd mathematics and science, John Fiohard Jenkyns. Form II.: Form and English, Ssrah Helen Dav'.es; languages, mathematics, and science, Sarah Helen Davies; second English, Annie Jones; second mathem-t c* v-vl soence, Eleanor M. Jones. Form lib., Tom Henry Jones. Form JIa., new pupils; Girls, Irene Ceinwen Evans: boys, Evan David Jones Form lib., new pupils: Girls, Lizzie Jane Jones; boys, Timothy Williams. Music: A.L.C.M., Blsic Anne Davi; senior Mary Anna Evans: junior, En d Lewis. Art: Senior, Rhys Evans; junior, Emrys Davies. Needlework and cook- ery: Senior, Annie Evans; junior. Mary Lisaie Jones; form? Ill and II, Lizzie Williams: form IITb., Lizzie Mai Davies. Woodwork, J Richard Jenkyns. The fol owing are ttie successes of the pre- vious session:—University of Wales, fleeted to a Fellowship, Griffith John Williams, M.A., Cellan. Dregree of B.A.. Castie Davies, Ghn. rafon, Blaencaroh (2nd honours English); John A N. Thomas. Wern Villa. T'-egaron (2nd class honours history); D. II. Jenk ns. i Gwynfil Shoo. L'angcitho (3rd class honours Welsh): Nellie Rowlands, London House. Pont- rhydfendigaid). Degree of B.Sc., John Davies, Brynlioewnant, Tregaron. Research student- ships of C65 per annum, W. A. Bebb, Cauner, Tregaron: and D. Lloyd Jenkins. Cefngr.rth, Llanddewibrefi. Cent-al Welsh Board (senior certificate) James Kitchener Davies, Llajn, Tregaron ynvies, Bryn Stores, Ram, Lampeter: Nellie Davies, Glanrafon, Hbn- earon; William David Edwards. Glanprois, Tre- sraron; Annie Evans, Cross Inn, Llanddeivibrefi; Magdalen Hughes, Laundry. Derrv Ornioud; John Samuel Jenkins. Trccefel. T-egavon; Dr. Jnmes Jones, Green View, Llan.tde^;hre*i: Dd. Llovd Jones, Gorwen, Tregaron; David Jones, Panteg, Bronant: Idris Tom JCJnt, Wern 3>1.1:, Tregaron; leuan Jones. Pend'e House, Trecrnron; Lizzie Anne Jones, LTwTn- celyn, Llanddcwi; Owen Elnnrd Jones, Poire Station, Trcgaroin; Stephen James Jones, Mnes- plas, Tregaron: David Gwdym Morgan, Ns>vy Hall, Bronnnt;. Jack Morgan. Wvrtie Tregaron. Central WHsh Board 'Minnl'meni- ory ccrtffieate) David Arthur Davies, Lone House, Rwlchyllan: Elsie Ellen Davies, driw, Llonddewibrefi: G adys Megan Jones, Delfryn. Tregaron: Tboma< Jonas, Tyngr3:g, Pemnvch; "Pelor Honkin Jonn". Tymelyn. Lhn. "o'tho; Henry Mills. Tynbonbrcn. VsM'tty Ystwyth. Junior certificate: T.e'itin Davies, Llain. Tregaron; Massie Mary van3 Cress Inn, Llanddewi; Elizabeth Myfanwj

Lampeter Sessions. ) $ ALLEGED ASSAULT. I The monthly sessions were he-Id on Friday, before Walter Davies, in the chair; J. W. Davies, D. G. Hunro Hughes, Charles Evans, W. Inglis Jonos, and D. Thomas (mayor), Esqrs., and Major B. Davies-Evans. George Wil iam Taylor, M.M., ji.S.M,r Cwm- coch, Llangvbi, a demobilised soldier, charged David Lloyd, Derry Lodge, w'th having as- saulted him. Mr D. F. Llcyd appeared for I complainant and Mr. ArnoLd Davies for de- fendant. Complainant said he went to Derry Lodge on the 11th and asked defendant why he had sent the dogs after the fowls. Defendant re- plied that he would kill them all. Defendant tried to strike him on the head. Witness he d his arm up and it struck him on the arm. Defendant struck him again and. he was help- less. Dr. E. Evans said complainant had a bruise on the left arm with an abrasion. The bruise was three inches by one. Defendant, giving evidence, alleged that com- plainant buttoned up his coat and "came on," spitting on his hands. Complainant threw a glove and hit' him. He stopped it with h s hand, but it touched his facIo and loosened his tooth. Complainant then ran away The Bench dismissed the case. A cross- summons by Lloyd against Taylor was then withdrawn. FAST DRIVING. D.C.C. Williams charged Daniel Lloyd, Drunddu Hal, Silian, with harng furiously driven a horse and trap. Defendant denied the charge. P.C. Lowis said he saw defendant driving at full gallop. By Walter's Hotel he stepped out in front in order to stop him. He shouted to him to stop, but he took no notice. Defendant said his pony was twenty-eight years of age and the best bid he could get for ••t the bther day was £ 4.—The case was dis- missed The same defendant was charged by D.C.C. Williams with having driven a carriage with- out lights.—Fined 2s. 6d. LIGHTS. Lewis Jones, Bwlchwerneufach, Gartheli, was fined 10s. for a similar offence. CARRIAGE LICENCE. Evan Evans, clerk to the County Council, charged David Jones, Drewen, Dihewyd with having used a carriage without a licence on the 29th September.—Defendant admitted the charge and was fined 7s. 6d. Herbert Matthews, Ffosyffin, was charged with a similar oflenco on the same date. He was also charged with having used a motor car without a licence.—Defendant did not appear, and P.C. Lewis proved both charges. A letter was read from Mr. D. Emrys Wil- liams, Aberystwyth, stating that the licences had not been taken out through an oversight. —Fined 7s. 6d. in each case. Mr. Ivor Evans, Aberystwyth, appeared to prosceuie in each case.

Machynlleth Governors. NEW TEACHER APPOINTED. Machynlleth School Governors mot on Friday," present, Mr John Thomas, chairman; Mrs Davia', Royal House; Rev. D. CunHo Davies, Messrs. R'chard Rees, Dr. A. O. Daov- ies, Mr T. Parsons; H. Meredith Roberta clcrk; rind H. H. Meyler, headmaster. A report, of a committeo appointed to see to tho construction of army hub. in the school grounds was received a.nd various details con- sidered. The report was adopted. A letter wary re-ad from the school caretaker sta.tng sho coald not carry on on the. salary at present paid h »r and a. king for an increase. —Tho preson.t. salary was per annum.—Dr A. O. Davies said the price of commodities had increased by 125 per cent, durng the war and tho Governors should pay tho caretaker a salary consistent with that. — The Rev. D. Cun'o Davies said Mrs. Andsell had to light a. number of fires every morning. — Mr Richard Rers proposed the salary should be iiNerfased to £30, and the proposition was adopte*]. A in to the Board's inquiries as to thu reason for the Board of Education's refusal to recognise the school for the teach- of higher grade subjects was read from' the Board which stated that the chum made out by tho Governors was wot coherent enough. Headmaster saad reply was very un- satisfactory. Ha thought it the duty of the Board of Education to point out the weak- nesses in the scheme. The. objection should have bieii pointed out. There wrre many eeheols in the country recognised by the Board cf Education which ■couM r.ot boast of the record of Machynlleth school. — Dr. A. O. Daries proposed th2.t the matter should be re- ferred until tho Board's inspector conferrta with the Headmaster. L.. Tho Headmaster reported on the need of a I f wia#it»r to also tfach mathematics. — | T.:e HeatjH?f«ier was authorised to advertise.

LAMPETER. SHOULD BACHELORS BE TAXED P—Mrs Harnsunaii pr Hided over the weekly meeting- of the BroTidedfy Literary and Debating Sooierty, on Friday when the subject wae "Shuld Bachelors be taxed?" Mr. Terwrn Davids, opined for the affirmative, 8dld tie T. Oswald Williams, led the negative. Fnvera.1 speakers took part in the subsequent d scussion. In the vofcng 25 for the .ifirmative whilst only six voted for the negative. YSTUMTUEN. MUSICAL SUCCESS.—We are pleased to hear that Mrs. E. E. Houlbrook. Rhosbodr, has successfully passed the senior examina- tion in pianoforte playing was held under the London College of Music on Decem- ber 15th. LLANDEAFEL. MILITARY MEDALIST.—At a parade of troops at Chester Castie on Saturday, Sapper T. O. Williams, Royal Engineers, of Llandder- fel, wa.s decorated wlth. the Militarv Medal for great bravery and continuous good work in action. LLANILAR. FUNERAL.—Tho funeral took p ace on Thuivday at L'anilar of Mrs Elizabeth Lloyd, Roifc Cot'tarTe.. The Revs. T. O. Jones, Llan- ilar, John Davi«, and R. J. Rees, Aberyst- wyth officiated a.t the chapel, and the Rev. 0. T. Davies, L funfyllin, and Rev. T. O. Jones. Llanilac at the graveside. Tho chiet mourners werti Mr. and Mrs Louis Jones, daughter and son-in-law; Miss Cissie Edwards, niece; Mr Thomas Edwards, uncle; Mr Davia LloYd Bryfitarion, Pebg-Jaise-rcad* .-Aber- ystwyth, tho Rev. Thomas Loyd, Ta.1garreg, and Mr. Evan Ciltfachau, sons-in-law. Sympathy is felt with tho bereaved family. fnrrnrtSr——J ~r-nr winning

I- 1. Football. WELSH AMATEUR CUP (2nd Round). BARMOUTH V. PORTMADOC. These teams having drawn—one rach— at Portmadoc, the previous Saturday, the replay J came off at Barmouth on Saturday. The; homesters played the same team, whilst the j visitors mad < two alterations. The gr>cie opened w"th tho Portmadoc left wing making tracks for the home goal but Humphreys saveu in the first few minutes of the game. The i botnesterrs tried thfir bei. to get going, but could make but very little headway-Griffith. Evans and R. D. Roberts defending finely. During the first twenty minutes the visitors had tho best of matt'rs and the Barmouth defence were hard pressed, but Llew Davies j and Aspmall proved a stumbling block on many occasions. J. R. Davie7 and Brazier worked their way into the vsitors' goal and Edward Humphreys had hard bnes with a ¡' good shot. The visitors' left wing (Hughes and Itob-o-ts) de?i.ghted the specia/ors w'th » cme neat passing, but finished off badly in front of goal. Willie Owen was prominent on the right wing i-nd Humphreys was playing nicely with his partner, but try as they ccuo tho homesters oouid not score. Portmadoc were awarded a corner, but Humphreys was in his best mood and saved finely. The vis t- ors' forwards were try'ng their b-t to score, but the Barmouth halfbacks (R. H. Roberts, Lowis William^, and Jack Tciies) were not to bo beaten, and sent them time afcer t me to th fir own territory. Barmouth then took no tho attack and were awarded a corner kick which was n'cely placed by WilVe Owen which resulted in Edward Humphreys headil" the ball into the net, thus scoring No. 1 for Bar- mouth. After thi- th., homesters had the best of the game, and the Portmadoc goalkeeper (Moi Evans) was severely tested. Owing- to ono of the Portmadoc players b,Png injured they had to play with on'y ten mihi for fifteen minutes. Half-time a-rived with the score:— Barmouth. 1; Portmadoc, 0. The visitors op-hed the second half with all the players. From the k;{'k off the home-, iters' went straight for goal aid the Port-, madoc gcaliei was C-al Ied upon to save I dangerous shots from J. R. Dav es. W"Ve Owvn and Humphreys. The Barmouth for- wards were now playing at their best, and G. T. Dav es (tho cwntre forward) tested the visitors goalkeeper with a good shot, he onlv partly cloared the ball from the go..1, and Edward Humphreys rushed on him and scored No 2 for Barmouth. After th s reverse, the visitors mndo determined efforts to score, and' thodr right wing (Roberts and Hugh-ir.) had hard liner, but the Bar,mauthans once again were giving oollslderah e pressure. On tlJc, l'crtmadoc dofenc 1, who gave several corner kicks to. save twubleL J. R. Willie Owem. and Humphreys were now verv proulin., cut with som nice ccvnibinat;<)n. There was now no holding on the home forwards, and it was very rarely that the Portmadoc forwards crossed tho halfway line. Soon afterwards Llew Daviers (left back) scored No. 3 for Bar- mouti. with a. sp'esidid shot. Final result:- Barmouth. 3; Portmadoc. 0. Mr. R. Morris, Blaanau Ftet'niog, acted as referee. MONTGOMERYSHIRE LEAGUE. I The Aberystwyth Town team will play Machynlleth at Aberystwyth on Boxing Day, and Llahidloes away on Saturday, December 27th. The team will be selected from the fol- lowing :—E. V. Watkins, Char.ie Parsons, Brin- ley Humphreys, E. Hopkins Jones, Frank Light, J. J. Jones, Emrys Thomas, D. H. Griffiths, T. Grlfiths, John Jones, E. J. Evans, and A. J Rowe. The team will travel to play Llanidloes by car leaving Aberystwyth at 10 a.m. j TOWYN v. LLANIDLOES. Towyn team visited Llanidloes on Saturday to fulfil a fixture in the Montgomeryshire League. Play throughout the game was of a most scrappy nature, it being one of the most disappointing seen on the Llanidioes ground this season. Billy Vaughan, Dr. D. R. Jones, and Tom Hughes scored for the homesters, and R. Roberts netted the only goal for Towyn, in the first half. j FINAL:— I Llanidloes 3 goals. Towyn 1 goal. Mr. J. Davies, Khayaner, was referee, and the teams were :-Towyn: R. Rowlands, G. R. Francis, Fasham, G. T. Jones, Morris, Hafe- kost, H. Jones, J. Roberts, Lewis R. Roberts, and J. Griffiths. Llanidloes: R. Thomas, S. Jones, G. L. Bennett-Evans, W. Williams, J. Vovd, J. Evans. T. Crisp, T. Hughes, Dr. D. R Jones, W. Vaugban, M. Burns. MACHYNLLETH v. TREGYNON. Machynlleth were to have met Tregynon at home on Saturday in the first round of the Montgomeryshire Challenge Cup competition. Tregynon, however, were unablo to take a team and had to yield the match to Machyn- lleth. Machynlleth have been drawn agf, nst. Llanidloes Daffodils in the second round of the cup. BORTH v. MACHYNLLETH. Bortli Comrades had a fixture to play Mach- ynlleth Juniors on Saturday, but unfortun- ately tho Juniors ha3 gone to plav Carno. However, they played the Machynlleth town team, the game ending in a. win for Mach- ynlleth by three goals to nil. The visitors would have been beaten by a larger margin had it not been for th0 splendid- play of their eo.Li- keener, Albert Rees. Dr. A. O. Davies, Mach- ynlleth, was referee FOOTBALL NOTES. (By Mawddach.) Mr J. R. Davies, Barmouth, has boen oil- proached by Wrexham (Birmingham Leagurv) With a view of obtaining a trial match. By defeating Portmadoc last Saturday in the second round of the Welsh Amateur Cup, Barmouth will enter the th;rd round for the first time in the history of thn club. The nftt, drs.w j, awaited with great interest by all, lovers of football along the Coast. The Barmouth Juniors will visit Aberystwyth On Boxing Day to pay. the Celts in a friendly match, whilst on Saturday they will visit Portmadoc. Tn the dra.w for the third round of the Welsh Amateur Cup at Wrexham on Monday, Aber- ] ystwyth were drawn against Barmouth at Bar- mouth. I

LLANBADARN. f SUDDEN DEATH.—A painful senfcation was on Saturday night when it became known that Mr. John Powell of Frondeg had passed awav at the Aberystwyth Infirmary. It apnears that deceased was returning berbe on Thursday night from the Aberystwyth Poultry Show when be was taken '11 and found by P.C. Richards in the early hours of Friday morning lying on the roadside in an exhausted condition. P.C. Richards conve-ed him to Frondeg, but his condition was so serous that the doctor ordered him to bo taken to the Infirmary. Mr. Powell, who Was in his sixty-sixth year, carried on business in conjunction with his sister for a number of vears in Great. Darkgate-street, Abervstwvth. The deceased is being buried at Llanbadarn t >d:¡ (WednevJ'-y.)

MACHYNLLETH. ¡ COMRADES.—The monthly meeting of the I Branch of Comrades was he d at the Dr 11 Hall on Friday evening, Mr. John Hughes, captain of the branch, presiding. A discussion took place regarding the attitude of certain mem- bers of the Comrades towards other users of the Drill Hall, and the Chairman urged an Comrades to so behave themselves as to merit the confidence and sympathy of all sections of the community. It was decided to form a gymnasium class early :n the new year, Mr. Hugh Jones, Town Hall, being asked to act as instructor. Owing to the prolonged illness of Mr. John Lewis, the popular hon. treasurer of the branch, Mr. R. E. Morgan was appointed hon. treasurer pro tem. It was resolved that the following, who had giv the branch both aid and valuable advice on several occasions, should be thanked for their kind- ness:—The Rev. and Mr6. F. J. Davies, Mr. and Mrs. J. G Jenkins, Nurse Jones, Mr John Lumley, Mr. Jackson, and Mr. Nanney. A resolution ask'ng the Football Committee to give a benefit match at an early date in aid of the locad Comrades relief fund was also passed. CHRISTMAS MARKET.—The Christmas market was held on Monday. The weather was exceptionally wet-even for Mac-hvnlletb-nnd doubtless hindered many people in theii? Christ- mas shoop'ng. Poultry was scarce and many bad to forego the'r annual Christmas gcose. WHIST DRIVE.—A whist drive.- organised by the Comrades' and Mr. H. Jackson, Hvfrydle, was held on Thursday even ng, the proceeds going towards the expenses of .remov- ing two comrades to hospital. Mr. Charles JIaIl was M.C. and the catering was done by Mrs. Hugh Jones, Town Hall. The prize- winners were:—Ladies: 1, Miss S. J..Tones, Aberhostin; 2, Miss Nellie Evafls; consolation, Mrs. W. J. Lane. Gentlemen: 1. Mr. W. Venables: 2. Mr. J E. Pritchard; consolation, Mr. Haydn Lloyd. Over Eg was realised. SHOW SUCCESSES.—At Llangefni B-d Fanciers' open show, last week. Mr. J O. Wil- liams, L.C. and M. Bank, took a first and third prize with h's goldfinches in a big class; 'third prize with his mil e; and very highly com- mended with his greenfinch.

CRAfC CHAPEL. PRESENTATION TO MRS. TREVOR JONES. On Sunday evening a presentation was made to Mrs. Trevo- Jones, who for the past thirty years has acted as organist of Gra.ig (Inde- pendent) Chapel, where her father (the late Mr. J. O. Williams) in his timo was one cf the most successful male voice choir tra'ners, as well as precentor. The service was presided over by the Rev Henry Williams, B.A., who made the presentation on behalf of the ccn- gragation. Messrs J. M Brez-ie, chairman of the Urban Council: John Jones kgwiadwr), and Edward Breese spoke in appreciative terms of Mrs. Jones s many years service to congregational music (Mrs. Jones had for thirty years been org&nist of Graig) and of her w^hing aid in every good cause. A cheque of tho value of JE50 was presented her, and Mrs. Jones appro- priately thanked her teliow-worshippers for their kind consideration and appreciation of her services. During the service the Church Choir, tinder the conductorship of M-. John Lumley, who succeeded Mr. J. 0 Williams as precentor, sang" Bendigedig Fyddo Arglwydd Dduw I Israel," "Cwm liondda," the last piece having been sung for the first time at Grac and is so much appreciated that it is expected that it will often be sung in future church services. Mr. John Jones and Miss Jones, Forge, and Mr EnD Maldwyn Jones also sang solos and duets. i

PENLLWYN. WEDDING.—On Wednesday a pretty wadd- ing web solemnized at Penllwyn Chapel, be- tween Miss EUon James, late LlwYll I or worth, eldifc-t. daughter of Mr. and Mrs Jame, Doiy- pandy, ajid Mr. John Jones, Penrhyncoch. The oftic,a,tin", minister was the Rev. David Morgan, in the presence of Mr. T. Morgan, registrar. Mrs lvi, A.L.C.M., played the Wedding March. After the ceremony, a large party motored to Penrhyncoch where a sub- stanuaJ breakfast wa; laid.

BORTH HOME FROM SEA.—Mr. Vernon Williams, son of Captain and Mrs. Lewis Williams, Pic- ton, Came home from sea On Saturday morn- ing. PERSONAL.—Mr. John Tibbott, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Tibbott, Bradford House, left for BarrT on Friday to join his ship the "Heath Park."

TALYBONT. COMRADES.—A meeting of men was held on Thursday eveirng, when it was. decided to form a branch of Comrades of the Great Wax. Major Fossett Roberts and lyipv. Bertie Llc^jd, Aberystwyth, who were enthusi- astically received, addressed the men cii the advantages of the institution. OBITUARY.—The death took place on Sun- day evening of Mr. Thomas Evans, hen .,y Farm, after a few weeks illness, at the age of eighty-two years. Deceased was well known in agricultural circles and was estve-med by aH. He was senior deacon at Bethel Inde- pendent Chapel. Much sympathy is felt with h's bereaved daughter MART.—The Chrstmas mart was conducted by Messrs. D. I Rees and Evans, Aberyst- wyth, on Thursday, and prizes were given for pens of animals. The prize winners were:— Best pen of ten Welsh wethers; 1, Mr. Evans, Bwlchglas; 2, Mr. Morris, Penwerni; r., Mr. R. Jones, Pencefn. Best pen of ten lambs, any breed: 1, Mr. Jones, Wileirio,-issalP 2, Mrs. Jenkins, Llwynglas. Best Welsh black bullock or heifer: 1, Mr. Jenkins, Neuadd-yr-ynvs; 2, Mr. Jenkins, Cerrigcaranau. Best fat bu lock or heifer, any otflier breed: 1, Mr. Richards, Tynpynfarch; 2, Mr. Jenkins, Ncuadd-yr- ynys. The judges were Mr. Thomas -Jones, Moelglomen, and Mr. Dav d Jones, butcher, Aberystwyth^

ARBITRATION AWARD. The arbitration award in respect of the wages of aoachmakers and parnters in the employ of thri Cambrian Railways takes effect from the first pay day after May 7th la6t, and is af; follows :—Weekly Wages Coachmakers, 36s, outside painters 34s, ins;de pointers 28s. In addition to these wages the m '!II are re- ceiving a war bonus of about 33s weekly. »

If "Atora" Were a Sovereign a lb. learned professors would iecture upon its unique food value. "ATORA" Beef Suet is the best of the beef, the part which provides energy and fortifies against cold and damp. While it is the most valuable food we have, its price is within the reach of all. The delicious puddings you make with it are a re-introduction of the famous Old-English puddings, much improved and more digestible. Thev reduce the meat kill, yet give equal nutriment. Ii-b. "ATORA" Beef Suet equals 2-lbs. raw suet. Children fed regularly on "ATORA"-made puddings never need cod liver oil. Sold bty all Grocers. Shredded for Puddings and Pastry. In Blocks for frying and cook- ing. Sole Manufacturers, HUGON and CO., Ltd., Maocheatcr.

Aberystwyth Poultry Show WELCOME REVIVAL. FULL LIST OF PRIZEWINNERS. The Aberystwyth Poultry Show (which we briefly reported in our last week's issue) gained a success beyond the wildest expecta- t ons of the Committee, who had only a short timP in which to prepare. The live poultry section was a distinct feature, showing a beautiful class of bird; the dressed poultry section was also much admired; in the tame rabbit section the exhibits were mostly of a good we'ghi,v type. All the prize winners were paid before leaving the show and this promp- titude rather astonished the prize winners. As a rule prize winners are not paid untii some weeks after the show. During the afternoon and evening lectures wore given by Mrs. Raw- son, propaganda lecturer of the National Utility Poultry Show. The lectures proved n- teresting and profitable and it was decided to try and form a branch of the Society in Aber- c' ystwyth. Special mention should be made of the Wvandottes tor exhibition only from the foundation stock bred by Mr. T. O. Cross, Ynyshir Hall, Glandyfi, which were much admired. The following is a full list of the prize winners:— SECTION I. White Leghorn (cockerel)-I, Mr. Harry Jones, Frongoeh Farm, Llanbadarnfawr; 2, Mr Hopkins, Fronfraith Farm, Aberystwyth; 3, Mr. B- Hutchings, Greenfield-street, Aberyst- wyth: v.h.c.. Mr D. Thomas, Clarach; h.c., Mr. J. T. Harget, Penglaise-terrace, Aberyst- wyth: c., Mr. D. Edwards, builder. White Leghorn (hen)-I, Mr. Hopkins, Fron- frr.,ith Farm; 2, Mr R. J. Ellis, BrN-nymor. Aberystwyth; 3, Mr. D. Thomas, Clarach: v.h.c., Mr. H. Jones. Llanbadarnfawr; c.. Mrs J. Davies, Llwynffvnon, Llanbadarn. Leghorn, any colour (cock or hen)—1. Master Gwilym Thomas. Lhiest Lodge, Llanbadarn; 2, and h.e., Mr. D. Evans, Ffynonddafras. Llaa- ybyther; 3, Mr. J. Wones, Great Darkgate- street, Aberystwyth; v.h.c., Mr. H. Jones, Llanbadarnfawr. Minorca (cock or hen)-I, Mr. David Davies, Buckley's Brewery, Llanelly; 2, Mr. John Roberts, Bridge-st-eet, Lamreter; 3 and v.h.c.. Miss Owen. Alexandra-road, Aberystwyth. Ancona (cock or hen)—1 and 2, Mr. D. Evans, Llanybyther; 3, Mr. D. Humphreys, Llanbadarnfawr: v.h.c., Mr. Jenkin Edwards and Mr. John Garner, Aberystwyth; h.c., Mr. T Davies, Glen Elra, Aberystwytp: c.. Mr. G Fellowes, North-parade, Aberystwyth. Any other light breed-I; Mr. Evan Hughes, Brynamlwg, Llanbadarnfawr (silver camp'lie) 2, Mr. Thomas Evans. Llanwnen, Llanybyther 3, Mr. R. J. Ellis, Aberystwyth; (two). Mr. D. Edwards, Penuwch; h.c., Mr. M. E. Lewis, Bow Street, and Rev. David Lewis. Whte Wyandottes (cock)-l and 3, Mr Dl. ,T-)-ie,, Drefach Farm, Lampeter; 2, Mr. R. J. Ellis, Brynymor, Aberystwyth; v.h.c., Mrs. Mrs. M. Jones, Comminscoch; li.c.. Mr. D. Humphreys, Llanbadarnfawr- c., Mr. H. C. Edwards, Lovesgrove Farm. Bow Street White Wyandotte (hen)—1 and special, Mr. R. Morris, Pendre Farm. Llanbadarn: 2, Mrs. Ma.7 Jones, Dolgardynen, Comminscoch; 3, Mr R. J. Ellis, Brynymor; v.h.c., Mr. David Jones, Lampeter; Mrs. Mary Jones. Ccmmins- coch; and Mr. D. Humphreys, Llanbadarnfawr. Wrandotte. any colour (cock or hen)—1, Mr. H. Jones. Llanbadarnfawr; 2, Mr. Thomas Evans, Llanybyther. R'ie Island Red (cock)- 1. 2. 'pecial. Mr Idris Jones, Lampeter; v.h.c., Mr. David Hum- phreys, Lisburnt-terrace. Aberystwyth; h.c., Mr. John Williams, Capel Bangor. Rhode Island Red (lien)—1 and 2, Mr. Idris Jones, Lampeter; Mr. J. B. Powell, Commins- coch. Indian or other game (cock or hen)—Mr Ed. Jones. Smithy. Dolgellev: 2, Master Gwily;n Thomas, Lluest Lodge, Llanbadarn. Rocks, any colour (cock)—1, Mr. Hopkins, Fronfraith Farm: 2, Mr. D. Humphreys, Waun- gau, Llanbadarnfawr, v.h.c., Mr. Rees Jones, Llanybyther. Rocks, any colour (hen)—1 and 2, Mr. Ter- wyn Davies, Eurfaen. Lampeter. Orpington, any colour (cock or hen>—Mr. John Roberts, Lampeter: 2, Miss M. Clifford Browne, Penpromprcn Hall: v.h.c., Mr Daniel Jones, Lampeter, and Mr. J. Jones, Llanwnen. Sussex, any colour (cock or hen)-I, Mr. E. R. Davies, B-ynglas, Chancery; 2, Mr. John Williams, Ochrgader, Llanfatian Any variety Bantam (cock or hen)—1. Mr. D. Girths, Pe :lr.dd llelg, Llanbadarn 2 rnd Lc.. Mr E. G. James, Cambr'a.n House. TUy- bont; v.h.c., Mr. W. Jones, Lampeter. Duck or Drake (any brerdl-I. Mr. W. Hill Jones, Lewis-terra.ce. Llanbadarnfawr- 2. Rev. David Lewis, Bow Street; v.h.c., Mr. Hop- kins, Fronfraith Farm SECTION II. Trussed Turkey—2, Mrs. M. Roberts, Fron- felen, Llanfarian. Dressed Goose—1, Mr. David Thomas, Ty- rabby, Clarach. Dressed Fowl-I. Mr. J Humphreys. Pen- geulan, Capel Bangor; 2. M-. G. Irmitbyge, Terrace-road, Aberystwyth. SECTION III. Fresh Butter—1, Mr. David Thomas, Clarach; 2, Miss Thomas, Claracb. SECTION IV. Brown Eggs—1, Mr. D. Edwardes, Pant- ffvnon, Penuwch; 2, Mr. J. Griffiths, Lynwood, Aberystwyth. White E¡:!gs-l, Mr. D. Griffiths, Llanbadarn; 2, Mr. J Humplirevs. Canel Bangor. SECTION V. Tame Rabbitr-l, Mr. H. Austin. Aberyst- | wyth; 2, Mr. J. S. James, Gilwern, Buarth- road, Aberystwyth; v.h.c., Master J. D. Hughes, Capel Dewi, and Mr. R. J. Ellis, Bryn-

CARDIC-ANSMI-RE MINES. In tios Róu, of Commons on Frday Mr Wil: Thorne asked the Pros dent of the Board oi j Trade whether at various times in the last 100 years in the county of Cardigan over 260 metai mines havro been in operavt'on, and how many are work Tig now: whether in Derbyshire over 194 mines were worked fir 1E"a.d ore, and how many are working now: and whether in Cora- wall as many as 259 m'nes for tin, 1 (ad, cop- per, and sine were owe in working 2 £ >d how many are working there now? lh. ThOl:" askfd whether in nine ee."18 out of tee the ""at;on of thr. industry is due to the reni and royalty ps.id to laad'ords. He also in- quired why the Ferrous Metals Committee is eondueting its inquiry in sccrwt? Mr Brdgeman: I understand that the num- ber c? miniR which have Seen worked in the la-t hundred years in Cardiganshi-e, Derby- shire. and Cornwall are approximately as s'&tcd, and that there are now working four mines in Cardiganshire, two 'n Derbyshire, td about fifty ia ConswaU. The dec'ine ini the industry is due to a variety of can" es Tiow under investigat'on by the DePartmeta1 Com- mittee which, for sonr. time, has been taking erdwiee on three days in eack week. I under- stand that the Cemmvttee decided that, v- 1vifw of th- mature of the inquiry it is sudvs able* that its sittings should be pr'vate. I an" unable to anticipate the content" of thei Ireport. or to say when it wil' be presented J birf, the Committee proceed Hy with the I inquiry as rap iClr as postib'e.

Christmas—Old and New. QUAINT CUSTOMS OF TULETlDE By STUART-BAKER. Christmas, 1919, will rank as one of the most memorable in the annals of the world. I It wi.I be a "Peace Christmas" when the divine call Peaoe on Earth Goodw 11 towards Men," will be realised as never before. Despite sorrows, despite hardships, it will be possible to foe' "ChristnJassy" this year, and we trust the carillon of the bells, young voices raised in melody, with the revival of maajy an old custom w d cause the dark shadows of the past to flee away. In this brief article the writer would hope to interest readers by telling of Christmassy things." True, many authoriti state that the 25th of December cannot possibly be the true date of the Saviour's birth, seeing that this is the wet season of the year in Palestine and therefore it would not be lkely that "shepherds watched their flocks by night." However, that may be. Christians accept this season to commemorate the Natal Day of Christ, though hundreds of years before this notable event the winter solstice was a time of rejoic ng among Pagan races. CHRISTMAS EVE. Christmas Eve in the olden dajrs was as great a time for merry-making as the Day itself. Helly. vy. and mistletoe decorated the rooms, huge fires roa<red in the big hearths: there was a welcome for a 1 when tljp keeping of Christmas commenced. Of the mistletoe plant a Srrndinavian legend records fiow Balder, the god of eloquence and poetry, had a dream in which his death was predicted. On consulting his mother, who was a "wise woman," she, to protect him from evil. invoked the Powers of Nature (earth. fire, and water) who prom sed that no harm should befa'l him through their agencies. Balder, took his place with the gods in battle. A rival, Loake. by name, hearing of Balder's seeming invulnerability, discovered that a cer- tain pl'ant. viz., a little shoot that grew from the bairk of the oak tree, could do harm to Ilim. He forthwith procured a. branch of mistletoe, ftashoned an arrow from it and, shooting at Balder, mortally wonnded him. The plant is supposed by some to derive its name from the missel-thrush which feeds upon its branches. On Christmas Eve, th0 Tu,'e Log should he placed on the fire. This custom originates from the Norse whose mighty men, centuries ago. built huge fires in honour of their god. Yuel. Tlrs custom was much observed by our forefathers. Herrick writes of it:— "Come bring with a. noise, My merry, merry boys. The Christmas log to the firing; While my good dame, she, Bids ye all be free, And drink to your hearts' desiring." A curious custom practised in some parts on Christmas Eve, is for the farmer and lis farmily. after partaking of hot cakcs arod cider to proceed to the orchard, hansr cakes on the boughs of the fruit tnees and after bap- tising them with cider, <rrv:— "Bear. bear, apples, ond pears snow, Barns fn'1. bag? fell.$arks f in." A popular superstition was that on this eve the powers of darkness could net barm man- kind, and that the cock crew all night to scare away evil spirit. Shakespeare refers to th's in Hamlet:— "It fadeth on thn crowing of the cock. Some say, that ever Against, this season comes, Whereon the Saviour's birth is celebrated. The bird of dawning singcth aJJ night lone." ¡ Another pretty belief was that at the hour of the Saviour's birth cattle knelt in their stalls in adoration, while bees could be heard j sViging a song of praise in their hives. Bread baked on Christmas Evo never goes mouldy, so some countryfolk I OLD CHRISTMAS GAMES. Manv and varied are the games played at Christmas and at Christmas only. Smap- dragon is one of tbe old. "Here be comes with flaming bowl, Don't he mean to take his ton Snap! Dragon! Take care not to take too much. Be not greedy in your clutch Snap Snap! Dragon! "Bobbing" or diving for apples is another old sport, the apples floating on top of a bis bowl of water, the players endea»#uring to get ¡' them out w- th their mouths. Morris Dancers and Mummers contributed to the gaiety. The la-tter usually lacted a p'av iq which the brave deeds of St. George were extolled— '•'Here come L St. George, the valiant man, With naked sword and spear in hand. Who fought the Dragon and brought bim to slaughter, And so won the King of Egypt's daughter." The Waits may visit us this year cn the eve before Christnias. Originally they were min- strels attached to the King's Court who musi- cally proclaimed the hours of the night. CHRISTMAS DAY. So Christmas Day dawns. A pcict of the seventeenth century thus writes cf it:— So now is come our joyfullest feast, Let every rnn.n be jolly: Each room with ivy leaves be drest. And every post with holly. j Tho' some churls our mirth repine Round your foreheads garlands twins Drown sorro v in a cup of wine, And let us all be merry." Family gatherings, the joyoug shouts of the children as behold th" gifts of FJanta Claus, the ga ly lecorated tree and the greet- ings, all add zest to "Christmassy doings." Cards are of very ancient origin. In the six- teenth century children sang the following:- "When Christ was born of Mary free, In Bethlehem of that, fair citie, Angels sang there with mirth and glee. In Excelsis Gloria!" Prol^ably the oldest carol written runs, His place of hrth, a. solemn Angel tells. To simple shepherds keeping watch by night, They gladly thither haste, and by a choir- Of guardian angels hear His carol sung." What a feast of good things is usually spread at Christmas. Even in these times of nation- ing and "high prices" many a dainty will re- appear oiL our tables. In the olden the big oak tables groaned under the weight of Christmas fare and the boar's head land the mighty baron of beef taking pride of place. Then came the roasted peacock, sewn up in its gorgeous feathers, the geese, the capons, and the pies of caris tongues vth steaming bowls of frumcrty. Mince pies were then known as "eoffin" or 4: manger" pies, the crusts being shaped something like those two articles. Plum pudd ng was plum pot- tage, a curio dish made by bqiling beef or mutton, thickening the liquid with brown brefcid and adding raisins, currants, prunes, cloves, mace, and spice. Of the duration of Christmas holidays, a bal ad written in 1603 tells us— "When"Chrstmas comes in like a bride, With holly and ivy clad, Twelve days of the year, with mirth and good cheer, In every household iP had." So near the close of 1919. with cur walls gleaming hol and the m stletoe act in its traditional place, though the memories of our pVirions deaj-in widely distant graves or t'e- low the seven seas—may check the onrush of our merriment, let us be rfad in the know- ledge that we have Fved to the triumph of eternal justice over the lust of world- dominion, and in this spirit with high hopes of a glorious future, the old, old, wish. "A Merry Christmas and a EJappy New Year" will be fully realised. 69, London-road, Buxton, Derby.

ARTKOC G5TMDEITHAS DDIWYLLJADOL.—Oynhal- iwyd yr uchod noe Wener, dan lywyddiacth Mr John Hg-gon, Gwawr Cottage. Cafwyd crynhodeb rhagorol a manwl 0 brif ddigwydd- iadau'r wythros gan Mr R. Pugh Roberts, Y Wern, Fairbourne. Dio'chwyd yn gyncs iddo am ci adroddiad. Y r oedd yn hynod o ddiddorol ac adeiladol. Ymhellach oelwvd oapur rhagorol ar y "Nadolig' gan Mr Evan Edwards, Pantyphillip, a diokhwjri yn iddo. Cafwyd carol gan barti |fr W; i-ams, Llythyrdy: adroddiad rhagorol gan y Wtinydder Jones, o Fairbourne; unawd gan H iza. A. Jones, Tanybryn, GUtsfryn- terrace; adroddiad rhagorol eto gan Mr Evan Lloyd, Y Merddyn; triawd gaji Misses Sarah Davies, Nell Davies, a Caesic Davio vn hynod 0 swynol; a charol ctto gan Barti r Friog. Cafwyd noeon ddymunol a chvfarfod rhagorol: daeth llu o bell ac agos. Nos Wener nosaf Cfcir vmgomwest (social); y trefniaday vn 1121W y chwiorydd ac y tnae jna. ragolygon am noon ddifvr a chyfarfod amrywiaothol •hagorol. Cafwyd ancrchiiadaBu yn J1!! y cyf- a-fod Mr Morgan Williams, YVgol y Cvngor, a Walter Davies, Bee Hive, Barmouth Junction. Cyfeiliwyd yn vstod y cyfarfod gan Miss 18 Maggie Roberts, Ynys Gyfiylog, a Miss Olwen B. Jones, Ty'n y Graig.

THE PLAS MACHYNLLETH HOUNDS will meet. Tuesday, Dec. oOtli Pfcntpcrihog (bare) 10.30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 1st (1920) Llyfnant Valle- (fox: 10.30 a.m. "aturday, Jan. 3rd (1920) Aherfrydlan 10.30 a.m.

-¥- I bar Feel depressed in fix morning ? Get du Kruschen habit, anc every morning will find you fit, alert and cheerful. Half < teaspoonful in hot water-before rising tvery morning! Of all Chemists 116 v per bottle. AD British 50L

Aberayron Memorial. A LIVELY MEETING A public meeting called by the Executm of the Public Hall Memorial Comzsittee wmt held at the Town Halt on the 17th. There ww a large attendance, and Dr. D. M. Dariot, county councillor for the town, was voted tc the chair. The objects of the meeting were tc receive report of the work done by the Executive Committee and to dscuss what further steps; to appoint new collectors; to appoint new Executive members. Mr. H. C. Davies, manager, Barclay's Bank, treasurer, said that the total amount collected was £ 1,350. Mr. W' -J. Jones. B.Se., one of the secre- taries, said that B600 out of the £ 1.300 *h»o been earned by the efforts of the Executive Committee by means of jiunble sales, bazafen, whist drives, etc. Alderman J. M. Howell gave a record of the movement. The Executive Committee àM been elected by badot by a la.-ge public meeting. Mr. W. J. Jones, B.Sc., in answer to quaa- fcons, said that the voting papers for the bal- lot in the selection of site were distributed to subscribers and intending subscribers by tha collectors who knew them. Alderman Lima Jones said he despaired of seeing a sum of £3,500 in hand, and withost that sum they could not embark on buiidag a proper hall. He would pay back every sub- scriber, and devote the £ 600 earned to buy airny but The Chairman did not want his money back, and he believed in going on with the project. Mr. T. Lloyd Evans, Pengarreg, said that it they had earned 1:600 in about twelve months thi^y could earn again. Besides, he believea there wou.d be new subscribers and that those who had subser-bed would increase their sub- scriptions. Mr. W. Key, chairman of the Executive Committee, said the Executive Committee were tired of the bickerings. Probably they had public confidence and they 1.0. tendered their resignations. Mr. J. Jones. stationmaster, sa d way te keep the public confidence was to take the public into their confidence. In "regard to the ballot election to select a site., there wm irregularities. Ballot papers were duplicated. He wished that election annulled and » plebiscite on democratic principles taken, each ratepayer being given a robs. Mr. E. Lima Jones replied that the demo- cratic principle was representation, based on taxation, and that was what had been done. Mr. J. M. Howell—If the matter were re- opened—and he was against the Alban-square held-thev would be in exactly the same dilemma. If they gave a vote to each rate- payer only many would vote who had not subscribed, and di*d not mean to subscribe, and those would vote who opposed the scheme, whereas dozens of others who had subscribed would have no voice. Mr. John Price, auctioneer, undertook it twenty others gave £100 each, he would give £100 to finish. Mr. Howell T Evans., M.A., asked that tber should proceed with the agenda. Dr. D. M. Davies appca ed to the Executive Committee to go an with the work, and moved their re-election as a mark of confidence. Alderman E. Lima Jones seconded, and the Rev. E. Evans, R.D.. rear of Aberayron, sup- ported and observed that he hoped that mm the bickering would end. He appealed to the Council if they wer- going to organise another eisteddfod that the proceeds so to the Mem- orial Hall Fund. The motion was carried with enthusiasm. The following were added to the Executive CommitteeDr. D. M. Davies, the Rev. E. Evans, v'fcar, Mr. J. J. Davies. U.D.C., Mr. Ben Davies, hairdresser, Captain Le- Fanod: the two latter to be also collectors. A vote of thanks to the Chairman endef the proceedings /•;

REVIEWS. "Messages from the Dead to the Living. London, F. T. A. D. 40, Balhuft- road. S.W. In connection with the prevailing disrasMom on spiritualism, the author of this pamphle# takes up a new stamdpoint, and shows that life on (tarth ip the prelude to a fu-ler in the heavens, and "it is up to you and ap to make yourself fit to live in the homes that are being- prepared for you." Ha predict that in a few years Angel Communion will be widely practised, and asserts that ha hmtfelf i a chos, ii teacher, of the Kosmon Chanel which teaches "the universal religion." "TaJes that were told" by Seumaa M&cM&-=& Dublin; The Talbot Press Ltd., 89, Taibodt- street. The author has takcm great care to collect the romantic stories of Ireland and his work is valuable because it is one of the first at- tempts to put into readable form stories whottt have) placed such a great paq. in Irish life awl character. Wales is still without any ecai- certed action to put its country and fireside tales into book-form, and its leading scholsn are unanimous in the hope that at an eerty date some stededt will taka up this doty, which, 3ji well as being important from the national point of view, would be al o con- genial to any lover of Wause Mr Seumw MPoganiz tolls his readers that b turn heard the majority of these stories in the chimney corner or walking bv the hauute& dells of Donegal. The book pos esses aAii- taonal charm through the pen and ink sk Mm* Mabel Hatt. To those who are interested m Celtic folk lore th* voimme m of apecHu. interest. "450 Miles to Fretiom," by Cap*. M. A. ft. Johnson and Capt K. D. y, London Messrs Wua. Blackwood end Sons Patoc- noBtt-r Row, E.C. Price 7, 6d net. This thrilling story 0f bow erght Britak officers escaped from the Turks and oov treat 450 miles confirm* the statement that truth is stranger than fiction. The authors of "46b Miles to Freedom" have already had Dmt satisfaction of seeing their work enter ita second edition, and as they pcteess a gift for lucd writing, it will be surprising if th-y do not find ther book running through many more editions. It !s impossible to give any- thing of their experieaoss in a brief re-r.ew but it is sufficient to say that th y laid their plans with all the care and preparation et skilled tacticians. They were interned in the middle of Asia Minor, hundreds of miles freos the sea ooast and In a part of a country whack is -absolutely Bew to western civilimtion. u. daonted however, eight men working by nothing except the start and a amW; coca pass mad, their way over the Salt deseft across rivers and railway lines and event- ually crossed the Taiaru5 mowtains to AymK where they suoceeded in getting a boat to carry them a to Cyprus. Th-Ar experiences are. undoubtedly without parallel. Soon after they left the internment camp they were walk- ing in single file wh^n the last two men sod. denty faw the growing end of a eigs-etie aM three mounted men came ickto new. Th",ink- mediat^y dropped and lay prone until" danger was passed. The authors have deee rernarkahly well to carry in their minds the inrtmiate detail of their terrible trip, and tbmir book might have been wrtten in Chapters afc at the close of each day's jeurney. 80 accural* and so fuil arn the descriptions of what tack plaoa day by day in their great fight for free- dom. Of all the war books published thwe are few to compare with this one by Oaet. Johnson and Capt. Tearsl^iy.

The Bill to increase old-age pensions was rushed through al. its stages in the House ef Commons on Friday, and operates from Jan- uary 1st next. Sir John Alcock, the Atlantic flver, has dint as the result of injuries received im a ernla near Booea.