Merthyr Times and Dowlais Times and Aberdare Echo

FIRST-CLASS ARTISTES Admission, 6d., Is., 2s. Half-price at S o'clock to all seats ext-ol,t gallerv. TRT POWELL A\]) Sox's Pure Home-made BKKAD and CAU; Gadlys Shop (opposite Public Park), Aberdare. Orders taken for HOME-MADE CAKE. Prompt delivery to any imrt of town. —IKFUEXXA has sent up the death rate at Aber- dare to an abnormal figure. During the past four weeks 123 persons were buried in Aberdare Cemetery, compared with 59 in the corresponding week of last year. < —The Rev. W..Tames, who secured the 13th place at the Aberdare School Board election, has notified his intention of sending in his resignation, because he does not care for gaining a position by the bare skin of his teeth." —The drawing of lots between the Rev. W. James and Mr. John Da vies, who tied for the [thirteenth place on the School Board list of successful candi- dates, resulted in favour of Mr. James, who will not now resign his seat. -Burial Board meetInot always of the solemn kiud whi :h people are apt to expect from the nature of the business which has to be transacted there. Weshfdl heat shortly of doings averse to the ding- dong routine of graveyards. —There are several people in A bet dare who will be glad to hear that a crematorium is about to be erected at Cardiff, which will, to a certain extent, relieve the pressure upon the Burial Board. This will be used as an argument against having a new burial hoard for Abeiaman. --Election times are always appropriate for reveal- ing the true nature and disposition of those "Shoni bob ochr people, and the bye-election of the Gadlys Ward has shown a few of these. We shall not go into personalities, and leave both nominates, asse$- tors, and many others to enjoy their stability. —The Davistown Dramatic Society are going ahead. Hearing of the great success attending the excellent rendering of their Uncle Tom's Cabin," the Mountain Ash and also the Penrhiwceiber people have invited the society to repeat the performance at those two towns. The invitations have been accepted, and the entertainments will take place in full character three weeks hence. With reference to the late lamented Inspector W. Jones, we may just mention that at a late hour on Saturday week news was received at Aberdare of the critical condition the inspector was in at the tumbles, whereupon his brother obtained a cab and Pair of good horses, and leaving Aberdare about mid- night he reached the Mumbles just about an hour before death robbed the county constabulary of one of their ablest men. We have only to search the records of the Aber- dare Cemetery to pron e what trying weather we are now experiencing. During the four weeks ending March 23rd there were no less than 123 burials Recorded, against 59 for the corresponding period of last year. An increase of 64 burials in one month is certainly phenomenal. There has been no nvc-week Period even during an epidemic when this startling "Urial rate has been booked at the Aberdare district. MR. A. J. WILLIAMS, to whom we referred last ^eek as having secured a £ 30 scholarship at Lincoln College, also took a £ 50 school learning scholarship atStratford-on-Avon, where he was a pupil. A'r THE EMPIRE THEATRE on Sunday evening the Bohee Minstrel troupe, who had been performing at l"at place during the week, gave one of their popular acted concerts. The building was thronged and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. AT THE CONSTITUTIONAL HALL on Thursday evening, Mr. Leonard A combes presided over an Interesting scientific lecture delivered by Mr. W. II. i^ubsole, F.G.S., F.R.M.S., of Sheerness, upon the Curious dwellers on our rhores." The lecture was '■justrated by a series of splendid limelights ably •"splayed. NATURALISTS' SOCIETY.—On Thursday evening last jj lecture was given under the auspices of the Aber- dare Naturalists' Society by Mr. \V. H. Shrubsole, .1' .U.S., F.R.:M.S., on "Curious dwellers on our shores." The chair was occupied by Mr. L. Acomb, Lloyds Bank, and the lecture was illustrated with dissolving views. THE BOOT HOTEL on Thursday evening, Mr. jetties Henry Jaines, the well-known auctioneer, vj.spo<<ed of those valuable premises now occupied by bihv ^av'es> newsagent, Commercial-street. The <Jincr Was Vf.y 8pirited, and was eventually dis- of to Mr. John Williams, hairdresser, for vj Q* Mr. J. D. Thomas acted as solictor for the odor (Mrs. Da vies). JACKET CLUE.—The members of the Star Cricket th held their meeting the other night, and selected »,0 following officers for the ensuing season :— ^aPtain, Mr. T. D. Francis; vice-captain, Mr. G. javieg. treasurer, Mr. Lewis Deere and secretary, r* W- Da vies, 29, Canon-street, Aberdare, who will di k ase(^ to arrange fixtures with clubs in the A t1, The head quarters of the club are at Sheen's -Athletes' Home." /^7>EREI,A DANCE. The Dare Quadrille Class CS /I ^eir season on Thursday evening by holding a j»^y^fella Dance at the Temperance Hall (Judge's fn1)' About 25 couples assembled, and a most j. J^yable evening was spent to the strains of Mr. D. Th Robertstown, able fingering of the harp, th A ha* been very successful throughout under M.C., Mr. W. Ho wells-. Amongst others present j/e MisKf.K Lucy John, A. Richards, Nellie Fine, Jenkins, E. Jones, Jenny Dere, L. J. Morgan, riy» Eva Phillips, Annie J. Morgan, and Jl Merriman, Carl Areshco, W. Marsh, W. Qij Uavies, W. Llewelyn, T. Jenkins, Stonelick, J. ,Ver. and W. Butler.' UJ JJE EMPIRE.—For this week the Empire manage- Birtl i'ave s<ecnrec', at an enormous expense, Cook's Srn which is a rattling pantomime upon a 8ho 11 Ca'e" Everyone wanting a good hearty laugh A £ QU; So and see this performance. Miss May vOeIr Kocs through a splendid turn as a character isf 'ii Tom Gannon is an eccentric comedian, but is t on5?>nal fun. Lady Zilla as a ventriloquist Ji, 0o well known to need any introduction. Walter t'lo Ii)lcnty of humour. There are two lio e", the listers Phillips and the Brothers Lorenzi, s0- are worth double the money to hear. They have 111) e smart puns and splendid skits put together in a clever way. The Pheros go through e marvellous atrial displays. .-fErIT,I, ev^J'KltTAiWiENT. — At Siloah Chapel on Tuesday chitfjn^ t'ler(i was an interesting entertainment given \v0 ",5". ''y the children connected with that place of Amongst other items recitations were ably by Miss Mary Gwen Da vies, Mr. John ry. Mr. John Howell, and Mr. John T. Richards. Were sung by Miss Beatrice Thomas and Mr. m Jone?- A duet between Mr. John Davies and *iial Jones was appreciated, and an amusing ThlO?U0 lietween Mr. J. T. Richards and friends. Was also an alto solo competition over which rice adjudicated, and awarded the laurels ti0l r" William Davies. A prize for the best recita- H0w given to Mr. J. T. Richards. Mr. T. tecitar !1res'ded, and acted as adjudicator of the Vert, Altogether the evening was spent in a J°vial way. Ca.f,¡VO" GRAKD PERFORMANCES of "Uncle Tom's fU|l /J were given on Monday, March 18th, 1895, in town ?racter».at t'le Temperance Hall, by the Davis- •*vCr Dramatic Society. The following characters *^°hn P uP:lon Legree and Haley by Mr. JSC'W, s George Harris, Mr. Edwin Richards; '» Miss M. A. George, Davis-street, Aberaman ile Wilson and Fletcher, Mr. Henry Harris, ^»aHi S^reet> Aberaman Shelby, Mr. John Jenkins, > Sam, Mr. John Williams; Sambo, Mr. l}]a ati» Richards; Cwimbo, Mr. David Phillips, Jie'v n8wawr St. Clare and auctioneer, Mr. John Alieramun Mrs. St. Clare, Miss Gwladys Mi *V Miss Ophelia, Miss Maggie Morris; Eva, t.UU)S- y Rees Topsv, Messrs. Bevan and Morris, f;v 'n each j)erformance Marks, the lawyer, Mr. 5>an». Aberaman UncleTom, "Llew Amun"; Cloe, Mr. John Willi ams Cassie, Mis-i Lizzie ^lor Messrs. T. W. Davies and William the st't a. manageress, Miss Lizzie Morris. All e-montioned characters played their parts T,ltn !"r'ly well, especially tho characters of Uncle C'lo SUllnn Legree, George Harris, Eliza. Aunt ltiov'J an^ Topsy, which were played throughout in a $tafff>ftr*,st|c manner. Great praise is also due to the "Ut! ??anaSeress, who conducted the acts so eftici- J^^ughout. Topsy was also played in a most '"trst wanner, keeping the audience in a most Hit[.,ln^ condition during her play. Miss Maggie ;tt,dtilar(its al.,o I)reside(I tt the piano during intervals, artiptieally played several pianoforte selections to faction of tho audience. A good sum of f.y was realised to procure an artificial arm for Ciii'i: • Davies, who lost his aim at Blaengwawr try many years aero. u),: t])e OF IN.SPKCTOI: JONES. —On Wednesday, by train, Great Western Railway, the mortal ,llla of the late Police Inspector William Jones pj;^ 'l.ouoht to Aberdare from the Mumbles, at which 4 e died a few days previously. 'I he corpse was by the local constables to the residence of his t|)e .c.r in Duke-street, preparatory for interment at tl^t' .'et'dare Cemetery on Thursday. At 3 p.m. on ('ay a large ]>osse of ])olice trc.m all parts of ttj| *0rRan and Monmouth assembled to pay the last resPect to the well-known officer. It was • an imixjsjiig sight to see an array of fully 140 itw f'n t^eir new clothing and bright helmets march- War.r^,r.east in military style from the town to the CC?f bl>' ial. The Re v. M. 'H. Jones, of St. El van's j?rav • Aberdare, oltiiciated at tho house and the Amongst others present were :—Captain ^0cV*v constable of the county), Mr. Henry k -Jotia'1/1 ^n,ai?ir^ratert' clerk), Superintendent Evan {3rlejmt.y-chief cotistable), Supt. James Thorney *F. James Thomas (Neath), Inspector 'Aberdare), Inspector Rutter (Maesteg), ^OWB'I ^ownseud (Bridgend), Inspector Davies rh0ln r ,1,V. Roberts ( Penarthl, Inspector (Chiton), Insjiector Evans (Pontypridd), tor McDonald (Aberavon), X us pec tor Men- henuick (Pentre). The bearer* were Sergt. James Jones (Aberdare), Sergt. D. Whitney (Aberaman), P.C. D. Hughes (Tynewydd), P.C. Hallett (Ferndale), P.C. James (Pontlottyn), P.C. Shaddock (Mill-street), P.C. Canton (Cowbridge), and P.C. Morris (Llandaff). The burial sc-rvice was conducted according to the ute of the established church, of which deceased was a faithful member. The whole of the county has certainly lost one of her most genial, smart, and able inspectors. Both the public and prisoners alike were always loud in their praises of the genial and exemplary way in which they were treated. In the force all the constables spoke' of the Inspector as a thorough gentleman notwithstanding his sterness and business- like treatment of those under his care. Our readers will no doubt remember the public feeling of indigna- tion when it was announced that hi? removal would take place from Porth to Gowerton. With no dis- respect to the locality it must be admitted that the change was averse to anything with a tinge of promotion. There is no doubt that the poor fellow felt this down-grade promotion very keenly, and it had a great deal probably to do with his premature death. ABERAMAN. MUSICAL.—The concluding sacred concert was held at the Temperance Institute on Sunday last. Mr. George Cumner presided, and the following perform- ance was rendered :—Overture, Miss George recita- tion, Miss Morgans; solo, Miss Mary Llewelyn song, Mr. Gomer Phillips pianoforte solo, Miss Morgans recitation, Mr. Zechariah Davies; solo, Miss Sage; finale, "Doxology." There will be a reversion to secular concerts to be held U:1 Thursday evenings at the same place. TEMPERANCE.—The "Safe Retreat" Lodge, Moun- tain Ash, paid a visit to the fraternity at tne Tem- perance Institute on Wednesday last. There was a large attendance. TheC.T., Bro. W. S. Sage, presided in an ahh. manner, and the foP'ng programme was pone through: --Pi%s, Bro .viea solo, Sister Pugh duet, uw. -i .viorris song, Sister Morgan; rec;Utioi,ra Thomas; dialogue, Bro. Sage and S;o. -AJ-S; recitation, Sister Bradfoid sonsr, Bro. N, »aries; song, Sister Pugh recitation, Bro. Keen ,ng, Bro. W. A. Jenkins; recitation, Bro. Alma Davies; song, Bro. Fred Parsons: song, Bro. Morris; song, Bro. Pugh. Bios. Sage and Parr thanked the visitors, and Bro. Griffiths tendered the fraternal greetings from the Father Mathew Lifeboat Lodge, and it was responded to by Brothers W. Davies, and others. MOUNTAIN ASH. —We are very pleased to learn from the various doctors in the town that the influenza is on the decrease. —A Mountain Ash man was heard to say last week that lie walked all the way down from Aberdare in Mr. J. It. Wiltshire's brake. —Mountain Ash is at present suffering from a general supply of dirty water. It would be interest- ing to know the cause, and whether this state of things is likely to improve. --The large eisteddfod which is to be held in the Poplars field on Easter Monday promises to be a gigantic success. The proceeds are for a good cause, viz., the Cottage Hospital, and we sincerely hope a good sum will be carried forward. —Evidently, from a commercial point of view, Mountain Ash is progressing. Another lawyer has recently come amongst us in the persun of Mr. W. Jones, whose business pi emises are in Oxford-street. An auctioneer's office also has been opened within the last fortnight. The influenza seems to have taken a subterranean course during the past week. We learn that quite an epidemic of the decease is prevailing amongst the horses underground at both of the Messrs. Nixons' collieries. The "v(t«,"asa consequence, have their hands full. Wilham Beynon, a platelayer on the Taff Vale Railway, recently caught two splendid specimens of male and female otters; they are now in the possession of Mr. Thomas, draper, Oxford-street. Quite a number of these animals within the last month or two been taken from the river Cynon. —We are sorry to state that our respected towns- man, Mr. Isaac George, has been confined to his room for the last fortnight suffering from a severe attack of influenza. We triM the prevailing complaint will soon leave him, and that we shall see his genial countenance amongst us again at no distant date. — A beautiful illuminated address, worked bv the hand, has for the past few days been on view in Mr. Callaway's shop window. It is to be presented to Mr. William Dally by the Reehabites and Good Templars of the place. Mr. Dally truly deserves the proposed recognition for he is a hard worker in the cause of Temperance. —The inhabitants of Mountain Ash are anything but pleased at the abrupt action of the Great Western Railway Company in taking off the early and late trains. They argue—and it seems quite right too —that if the trains could be run through the winter it would be much more profitable to the company to continue them through the summer months, when holiday-makers find the service so useful in going away and returning. -The large number of friends of Mr. William Pklwards, late of tho Cresselly Inn, will be pleased to learn that he is progressing as favourably as can be expected under the unfortunate mishap he met with some 12 days ago. Mi-. Edwards was walking up Card iff-road, and whilst passing over the iron grating in front of Messrs. Livingston's he slipped and fell. On medical examination it was discovered that both the bones in the right leg had been fractured. These kinds of gratings are a source of great danger. ACCIDENT AT DEBT DUFFRVN.—On Thursday after- noon an accident befel a man named William Fudge, employed as a collier at Messrs. Nixon's Deep Duffryn Colliery. The unfortunate man worked in the 9ft. seam, and whilst following his employment a fall of roof came upon him, causing injuries to his leg and arm. It appears only a few hours before a brother, who was working in the same stall with Fudge, had to be brought to bank suffering from a fractured thumb. FATAf. ACCIDENT AT THE GEOHI;K PIT.— A fatal accident happened on Saturday morning last to a young single man aged 20, named Frederick Jones, employed at the (ieorge Pit, Cefn Pennar. Deceased was working in the 4ft. seam, and was engaged re- moving some clod from the top of the seam, when a fall of roof came immediately tlpon him, causing in- stantaneous death. The unfortunate yuung man was a native of Worcester, and was very steady and much respected. WEODINO.—A very pretty wedding took place on Saturday morning last, the contracting" parties being Mr. Samuel Davies, Phillip-street, and Miss .lane Evans, eldest daughter of Mr. Thomas Evans. Phillip-street, Mountain Ash. T!ie bridesmaids, who were charmingly attired, were Miss Keturah Davies and Miss Ann Evans, whilst the part of the best man was efficiently earned out Mr. Rees Roberts. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. D. S. Evans at Siloah Chapel, Aberdare. After the register had been signed the happy couple took train for Swansea, where the moon of honey will be spent. We wish the newly-married pair every happiness and prosperity. WEDDING. —A very pretty wedding took place on Tuesday morning, April 2nd, the contracting parties Iwillg Miss Fanny Randle, of Hereford, and Mr. T. LJ. Castre, High-street, Mountain Ash. The cere- mony took place at the English Baptist Chapel, Mountain Ash, and was performed by the Rev. J. Howell before a number of friends and well-wishers. The bride, who was handi-omeiy attired in blue silk, with white hat to match, was given away by her father, Mr. E. Randle. The bridesmaids were as follows:— Miss Laura, Castre, Miss Jessie Castre, and Miss Bessie Castre, all of whom were charmingly attired. At the conclusion of the ceremony the bridal party, with a number of relatives and friends, drove to tlio residence of the bridegroom, where a sump- tuous breakfast had been provided. The wedding coaches were efficiently supplied by Mr. J. H. Wilt- Rhire. The list of presents is a long one, and com- prises some useful and costly ai tides. PENRHIWCEIBER. TEMPERANCE.—The district meeting of the I.O.G.T. was held at the English Baptist Chapel, Penrhiw- ceiber, on Monday evening last. The D.C.T. Bro. C. Gallivan, presided, and the other officers present were P C T. Bro. J esse Taylor, D.C. Bro. Knee, D. Chap. Bro. Rees, V.T. Sis." E. Whittaker, Marshal Bro. Canton, D. Mar. Sis. Narbett, D. Sec. Bro. T. Narbett. The lodge was duly opened in the district degree, but it was shortly after reverted to the sub- ordinate degree, and the business of the Order gone through. Afterwards the thiru degree candidates were admitted and over 40 members initiated, which makes a record for this district. After the session was closed, a splendid repast was prepared in the vestry beneath, presided over by the following ladies: —Mrs. Whittaker, Mrs. Edwards, Mir.. Squance, Mrs. Chapman, Miss Jones, and Mrs. Walters. The visi- tors thun regaled themselves upon the viands supplied, and all seemed happy afterwards, which speaks well of the provisions and the excellent way in which they were catered. The entertainment held in the chapel in the evening was presided over by Bro. C. Gallivan, and was well attended. The following programme was rendered :—Address, Chairman song, Bro. B. Morris recitation, Bro. J. Taylor; song, Sis. Jones; song, Bro. T. Davies; duet, Bros. B. Morris and Holloman; recitation, Bro. M. Parr; song, Bro. W. Jones; song. Sis. Jones; speech, Rev. R. Thomas; song, Bro. T. Davies; recitation, Sis. Whittaker. An interesting item of the programme was the pre- sentation of a bound edition of Beethoven's Sonatas to Miss Lydia Jones, as a token of respect and ap- preciation of services rendered to the True Per- severance" Lodge. This was handed to the young lady by Bro. C. Knee, lodge deputy Bro. Benbow, S.J.T., also spoke. Bro. Lewis then delivered a recitation Bro. Keen gave a song; and Sis. Llewelyn rendered a solo. The usual votes of thanks concluded a pleasant evening. ABERDARE JUNCTION. ON WEDNESDAY, the 27th ultimo, a serious accident befel a young man named William Riinrop, a lamp- man in the service of the T.V.R. Company, who fell from a signal pole, a distance of thirty feet. He was at once taken to the Cardiff Infirmary, It is feared his spine is injured. —Through the efforts of our local member to the Mountain Ash Local Board, the Rev, J. F. Williams, provisional repairing operations, until the new bridge is ready, commence on the old Ynysymeurig Bridge to-day it is hoped it will not be a jerry job. —In view of a possible strike with the colliers, fourteen days' notice was recently issued by the T.V.R. Company to a large number of their workmen. It is now withdrawn on the condition that until a final settlement of the colliers' question takes place they will be employed upon the day to day contract. -In reply to an invitation to attend the railway men's orphan fund concert on Whit-Monday, Mr. L. Harford, general secretary A.S.R.S., has written to say that be will not be able to attend owing to bui-i- ness in connection with the Executive Committee. —Good to see. the friendship existing between our fcwo local juvenile trainers.

EBBW VALE. THE FAILURE OF A TRAVELLING DRAPER. —Robert Miller, a travelling draper carrying on busings at Ebbw Yale, clime up for his examination at Tredegar Bankruptcy Court on Friday. The debtor's liabilities wera £ 734 91\. 2(1., and his assets £ 288 lls. 7d., of which amount £ 249 15s. 3d. h?d been realised. He attributed bin failure to bad debts end stoppage of works in the locality. The examination was adjourned to April 26th to enable debtor to furnish further accounts with reference to cash received on his round, and bow it was disposed of. Mr. Simons appeared for certain creditors. WELSH COAL TRADE.—Tn conversation with an interviewer respecting the coal trade, Mr. Thomas Richard", C.C., Beaufort, the miners' agent for this district, said "We feel that the recommendation we agreed to make was a perfectly safe one. We believe as strongly as we ever did in the fairness end justice of the amendment we have asked for in the Sliding- scale agreement; but it is evident now that all the workmen who have carefully watched the various attempts made at revision, that no successful revision ean ever take place until they are united and in a position to force the hands of the employers. From the first revision up to now, I have upon every available opportunity given it as my opinion that the organisation of the workmen must be immensely improve! before any substantial improvement can take place. Hence, I believe that the 12 or 18 months or two years which must elapse before any fuither attempt at revision can be profitably spent by the workmen in improving their organisation, so as to put themselves in a strong position to test the sincerity of the employers when they say that they cannot afford to concede the reforms that we ask for. When I speak of imperfect organisation, I don't speak of my own district of Ebbw Vale, for there we have a splendid organisation in all respects. The reforms which the employers had rejected had certainly not been abandoned by the men." BEAUFORT. THE REV W. GRIFFITHS, of Beaufort, gave an address on The relation of the Bible Society to the London Missionary Society." MR. EVANS, of Tonna, a student at Trevecca College, has declined the joint pastorate ol the Beaufort Welsh and English Calvinistic Methodist Chapels, and has accepted that of Libanus Cah'inistic Methodist Chapel, Poutardulais. VICTORIA COLLEUE OF MUSIC.—The results of the examination in connection with the London Victoria College of Music, Beaufort centre. are to hand as followsMr. Sam Price, Beaufort, diploma of licentiate.-Senior Grade: E. J. James, pass (piano). —Intermediate: James Cheese, honours (organ); William Hancock, honours (piano) Asmes E. Bull, pass (organ); Blodwen Thomas, pass (piano)-—Junior Grade: E. J. Hamley, honours (piano) Claudia Thomas, honours (piano) Sidney Baker, honours (organ) E. Bounds, honours (piano) W. Llewellyn, pass (organ); E. Samuel, pass (harmonium). Primary Grade R. Lewis, honours (piano) G. J. Webb, honours (piano); E. M. Williams, honours (piano) BRYNMAWR. For best value in General Drajjery and Millinery, Jackets, Mantles, Capes, fee., go to Jones and Mor- gan, 5. Beaufort-street. 2900 \V.\TKtN' DINING Roomi are situated a few minuter t, alk from the station. Excellent accommo- dation for commercials, dinners, teas, &0. [2898 S. KING, Abergavenny, wholesale Piano and Organ Dealer and Tuner, visits Brynmawr and district tw(ice weekly. Established 25 years. VISITORS to Brynmawr should not fail to call at the TEMPERANCE HOTEL, Beaufort-street. Dinners, Teas, Temperance Drinks, Cigais, Billiards, &c. Moderate charges. Call at Isaac's, 34, Worcester-street, Brynmawr, the noted shop for cabinet-making, picture frames, oleo- graphs, upholstering(in all its branches), walnut over- manties, ttedstcads, chairs, &c. Beds and mattresses made, on the premises. 2922 J. THOMAS, Billposter and General Advertising Agent, 3. Bailey-street, Brynmawr, rents principal pasting stations. [2997 — A meeting of thepovernora of the Cardiff Univer- tile sity College was held la"t week at Brecon. Amongst those present was Mr. J. Thomas, Brynmawr. — At a meeting of the Gwent and East Glamorgan Reehabite* at Tredegar last week, Bro. Neat, C.C., Brynrnnwr. and Bro. Rogers, of the same town, were respectively elected secretary and superintendent for the district. The Rechabites have now 23 tents in the district with upwards of 1,700 juvenile members. —The J!(, the organ of the Welsh Independents, has a sympathetic notice of the late Mr. J >hn Edward^, draper. —The Rev. Hope Morgan, a missionary from the Congo, preached at Tabor Chapel on Sunday morn- ing, and in Calvary Chapel in the evening. —They are all Sliding scalists at Ellwood Col- liery. —Brynmawr is a happy hunting ground for dogs of all breeds a.nd sizes. It would be interesting to know how many of these are licensed. —Private Harvey Owen, of Builth, has produced part of a bullet which had lodged in his head for eight months after an accident sustained whilst mark- ing at wrne shootmg competitions at Brynmawr last year, and the Breconshire Rifle Association have just given him £10. -The following announcement was made from the pulpit at a local place of worship lately It is affec- tionately requested that our young people abstain from attending the singing practices held on Sunday in connection with the eisteddfod, as such practices Ll( tend to secularise the Sabbath Day and are detri- mental and injurious to our spiritual welfare. --The Salvation Army had what they called a kick up on Monday. —There were some amusing incidents at the Good Templars' social meeting on Friday night. When the refreshments wr,re being handed round, a live tortoise, brought from Morocco, was also brought round on a tray covered with a cloth. Some of the eager templars removed the cloth to get at the cake" underneath, tt -e-- but when they saw the tortoise -To tie average Celt life would be dull and unen- durable without frequent opportunities of joining in the excitement of a, competitive meeting. The eisteddfod is the present day representative of the tournament and the jousts, which figure so pro- minently in romantic fiction. The Brynmawr Chair Eisteddfod was a great success. —Our beautiful Fairy Glen is putting on its spring garb, and last Sunday theft? was a large company of visitors there. The woods are becoming a leafy bower once more, and The <-reel< released from winter's frosty bite. With joyous leap and rippling laughter bright, "Out-vies the slsy in foamy white and blue, Tis spring, spring the world is born anew. POLICR COURT.—This was held on Tuesday; but the only cases were a few rates" and drunks." MR. ROBERT THOMAS, a native of North Wales, but an old inhabitant of Brynmawr, died at his house in I King-street last week. He was buried on Mcnday. FnOM THE London Oaiclte Notices of intended dividends and last day for receiving proofs: — Thomas Gwynne, Glamorgan-street, Brynmawr, grocer, A prilllth, MR. J. HUGH EDWARDS, a student at the Univer- sity College of Wales, and brother to Mr. T. Edwarda, draper, Brynmawr, has received a call to the Dolgelley Congregational Church pastorate. Mr. Edwards is a very eloquent preacher. THE SALVATION ARMY had special meetings on Mabon's Day, conducted by Mrs. Sands. There was a free breakfast in the morning and subsequently a love feast." The evening meeting was attended by bandsmen from the Blaina and Ebbw Vale Corps. I.O.G.T.—The feature of the Good Templars' gathering: on Friday was a sisters' night," the pro- gramme being in charge of Sister Neat. Bro. J. F, -es' Neat, C.C., was in the chair. Refreshments were handed round to all present by Sisters Neat, C, Evans, and M. E. Lyddon. The above-mentioned ladies were wearing native caps brought from the Congo, which were quite a novelty and created much interest. A.S.R.S.— The meeting of the local branch of the Amalgamated Society of Railway Servants was held recently, but the attendance was not so large as was expected. It is to be hoped that all railway men in this district will become active members of the society, as it is for their benefit to do so. The con- cert in aid of the orphans will be held this year at Ebbw Vale. MARKET.—Saturday The attendance was good, but the supplies were not so large as usual. Quota- tions Butter, 18. 2d. and Is. 4d. per lb. eggs, 12 I., and 13 a shilling fowls, 5s. to 53. 6d. per couple ducks, 6s. to 6s. 6d. per couple potatoes, 4s. 6d. to 5s. 6d. per cwt. rabbits, Is. and b. 2d. each beef, 7d. to 3d. per lb. mutton, 9d. to lOd. veal, 8jd. to 9jd. pork, 6d. to 8d. LIBERAL HUNDRED.—The executive of the above organisation met this week, and the general meeting of the members has also been fixed for the end of this week. The Hundred has been a great organising force in the town. The Hundred were elected np to the end of May next, at which time an effort will be made to double the number for re-election, so that for the following year there will be a Liberal Two Hun- dred. The chairman,. Mr. A. E. Evans, J.P., has been very faithful, and Mr. Isaac has proved a most energetic secretary. MUSICAL NOTES.—Brynmawr competitors came off well on the whole at the eisteddfod. It is true that the two choirs lost in the chief choral, but in the juvenile choir contest, the Brynmawr operatic, con- ducted by Mr. Roderick, came in a good second, and ran the winner close. Mr. W. P. Burrows and party won the quartet, and Mr. W. P. Burrows, in com- pany with Mr. E. R. Evans, Dowlais, won the duet. Sir. Burrows was also honourably mentioned in the bass solo, and ran the winner closely. Miss Ceridwen Owen, :of Bailey-street, a winsome little lady, won several prizes for reciting. QUOIT CLUB.—The Quoit Club has been again formed for the coming season. Dr. Bevan is the pre- sident and Mr. Fessemeyer secretary. The playing ground, at the rear of the Capital and Counties Bank, has been put in order, and a good season is anticipated. Arrangements have been made for matches with Hereford Cup Club, and a contest with Cheltenham is also talked of. The members of the Hereford Club have forwarded a splendid photo of themselves to the members of the Brynmawr Club, accompanied by a Jetter, in the course of which they speak in glowing terms of the enjoyable times the two clubs have had together in past seasons. j ACCIDENTS. — Whilst Mr. Jenkins, grocer; Mr. Holly, Mjtre Hotel; Mr. J. Williams, town crier, accompanied by a commercial traveller and Mr. Davies, Clarence, were driving in a conveyancp to Abergavenny, where they were going to attend a timber sale, the shaft broke, and the occupants were thrown jut. Mr. Jenkins was thrown ratherawkwardly and had his collar-bone put out, for which he is being medically treated. Mr. Holly had his arm injured, but Mr. Williams escaped with only a few bruises. Mr. Davies was also injured and the other occupant bruised.—Last week a collier named Richards, living at tho Tram road, had his legs broken by being crushed with a tram at Coal brook Valo Colliery. The poor ¡ fellow endured great agony, and lies in a precarious gouditiou. One of the" i<^ had to be amputated, THE LATE MP,. J. EDWARDS.—Mr. Dal ton's "Brave Boys" and Smiles' "Self Help" are books which recount how men have arisen from humble positions to places of position. Th# late Mr. J. Edwards, draper, of Alwrystwvth and Brynmawr, although he did not attain, perhaps, to what the pe world calls a "grand position," was, nevertheless, a striking example of a man risen from the ranks. Ihe following details from a sketch of life of the deceased which appeared in an Alxrystwyth paper will, we feel nure, bo read with interest by our numerous Brynmawr readers Mr. Edwards was born of humble parents at Pantyffynon, near Llanidloes, and in n'pite of difficulties of variou- kinds considerably advanced his status in life. At the early age of eight years he was put to work in a factory at Llanidloes. He had to walk three mile* to his work, wttich began at six o'clock in the morning and continued until eight o'clock at night, there being no Factory Acts in those days. He worked his way upward, and when quite a young man became one of the foremen of the establishment. When about 23 years, of age he commenced business on Irs own amount, travelling from place to place, and building up ». successful woollen trade. When the Cambrian Rjiilway was opened at Alierystwyih Mr. Edwards made his first visit to that town, and there he set up in businehs for the summer months, and went to South Wales for the winter. Thi" he con- tinued until 1868, when he married and opened busi- ness permanently at Aberystwyth, where ho has lived ever since. Mr. Edwards kept up his business connections in South Wales, which have attained considerable proportions. Mr. Edwards was greatly interested in shipping, and was one of the most active mcmljers of the Cambrian Mutual Marine Insurance Association, of which he was director. Personally, he was good natured and popular." THE AFFAIRS or A BRYNMAWR HOTEL-KEKPER.— The adjourned examination of Carl Virgin, who formerly tenanted the Griffin Hotel at Brynmawr, took place at the Tredegar Bankruptcy Court last wetik, before Mr. Registrar Shephard.—Mr. David, of Cardiff, appeared on behalf of Mr. (5. Dovey, the trustee of the estate, and the debtor was represented by Mr. 'Williams, Barrow. Mr. T. G. Powell, Bryn- mawr, also appeared for certain creditors.—The debtor was asked as to a certain account liook with reference to which he had made an affidavit that it had been destroyed by the accidental til)settin,- of a lamp.—Mr. Virgin replied that he was not present when the lamp was upset, but he had heen told of it by his wife.—Mr. David asked if he would be sur- prised to learn that the account hook in question was still in exi"tenee?—Mr. Virgin replied that he would be surprised.—Mr. David said that as a matter of fact the book was still in existfmce.-On „beinsr further questioned, the debtor said that he could not explain how a sum of JB1,527 7". 2d. had been made up which had been entered its having been the net loss sustained in carrying on business. He had sent his father at Stockholm a gold watch and chain at a gift, and for which he had paid Mr. Freedman, Dow- lais, JS20 14s. but he had sent his father nothing else at any "time except some small presents at Christmastide. The debtor was also examined at some length by Mr. Williams.—Mr. David, at the close, said that as the trustee was not in a position to give his certificate that the accounts filed were even yet satisfactory, hn must ask that the suspended order made by Judge Owen for the debtor's com- mittal to prison for contempt should now be put in force.—The learned Registrar said that under the circumstances the order must take effect.

FOOTBALL NEWS SOUTH WALES CHALLENGE CUP Ennw VALE r. NEATH "A."—In the first round for the above cup Ehbw Vale were pitted against Pontymister, whom they beat by a couple of trie.s. They thus entered the second round and were drawn to piay against Neath "A"atNeath. The match took place, ou Saturday in fine weather. Neatit started operations and the preliminary stages of the game were very closely con- tested. After the visitors had notched a minor against Neath, Jack Griffiths came away stronprly, but faced by Waterfield he kicked into touch near the visitors' line. Neath pressed, but Davies and Griffiths, initiated a smart- dribble, which forced Neath to concede a second minor. Half-time score Ebbw Vale, 2 minors Ne, tti A," nil. Owens re- started piny for the Ebbw Yalians, and the visitors pressed the Neath men hard for the first ten minute", but could not get through. The home foi wards came away with n rush and caused the Ebbw Vabans to act uli ice defensive. A stubborn game was fought on the Eobw Vale line and the visitors had to concede a minor. Neath continued to attack, and H. Evan", following up a kick, scored a try which was not im- proved upon. Final score Neath I try, 1 minor Ebbw VrI*, 2 minors. The game is descri!>ed by a sj>eotator as an uninteresting one. It consisted mostly of a series of scrums. The Ebbw Vale for- wards kept the ball close and wheeled the scrums. ¡ The homesters went in for similar tactics, with the resalt described. Much interest was experienced at Ebb", Vale in the match, and when the result was made known in the town the disappointment felt was most keen, for it was confidently expected that the champions of the hills" would this year claimposse"- sionofthecup.

CYMANFA GANLI AT MEItTHYK, On Monday the annual singing festival of the Welsh Congregational Churches of Merthyr, Peny- dnrren, Gellideg, Heolgerrig, Abcrcanaid, and Troedyrhiw, was held at Znar Chapel, Merthyr, under the eonduetorship of Mr. D. W. Lewis, G.T.S.C., Brynaman. Rehearsals were held on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon and evening, but ou Monday, at 10 o'clock, the first meeting of the cymanfa propel was held. This me.,ting is carried on by the children alone, and it was a treat to hear the little ones so melodiously singing. The meeting wnq opened through prayer by the He v. J. W. Price, Troedyrhiw, and the chair was occupied by the Rev. W. Evans, Salem, Merthyr. The pieces sung at this meeting were:—" Denvveh canwn iddoEf"; "Beth fvdd y cynhauaf draw?" "Fe genir byth ain hyn" Pa'm yr oedweh?'; Hosanna iddo Ef" "Ymrwymwn i gwrdd yn y nefoedd "'Gwahoddiad"; "lesu fy Nuw"; "Mol)ant i'r lesu"; and Hail: Judea" ("Judas Maceabcous"). Solos were also given by Miss Maud Hanian, Ynysgau, and Miss Margaret Jones, Heolgerrig a recitation was given by Miss Blodwen Maurice, Bethesda and addresses were delivered by Mrs. Emma. Williams, Salem, and th" Rev. J. Bowen-Jones, B.A., Brecon. This excellent and enjoyable meeting was closed through prayer by Mr. Mathew Owen, Ebenezer, Cefn. At two o'clock the first meeting of the adults was held. After opening the meeting through reading and prayer by Mr. John Bowen, Zoar, a short addi-es.s was delivered by the Chairman, Mr. Joseph Williams, Ynysgau. During this meeting a duet was rendered by Miss Lizzie Williams and Miss Sophia Griffiths, Abercanaid. An excellent address wah also delivered by Mr. D. L. Jones, Ynysgau, the subject being, "A history of Welsh Congregational Tune Books, from tho year 1840 to the present time." Mr. Harry Evans, F.C.O., Dowlais, also favoured the meeting with a short organ recital, and the meeting was closed through prayer by the Rev. Hees Jones, Talybont. At six o'clock the next meeting was supposed to commence, but owing to the fact that the chapel was crowded to excess a quarter of an hour before that time, the meeting was opened at ten minutes to six by the Rev. B. D. Davies, Merthyr Vale. The chair in this meeting was occupied-by the Rev. J. Jones, Bethesda, and after a few brief introductory remarks he called upon the conductor to take his post. In this meeting an admirable address on The Singing of the Sanctuary" was given by Mr. Richard Davies, Bethesda, and solos were rendered by Mrs. Mary Miles-Beynon, Zoar, and Mr. David Morgan, Bethesda. During the afternoon and even- ing services the following tunes were sung:—"Agatha," Burford," Ceridwyn," Nottingham," My- fanwy" (the successful tune in the competition), "I bwy y perthyn mawl ?" "Liil,,eck," "St. Edward," "Alma," "Prynedigaeth," "Bryniau Canaan," "Cariad," Priscilla," "Pwllheli,' "Aylesbury," Abergynolwyn," and "Talybont"; the anthems, !( Teyinasoedd y ddaear and A gwaredigion yr Arglwydd" (the successful anthem in the annual com- petition), and the chorus "Worthy is the Lamb." During the six o'clock meeting the Senior Secretary (Mr. D. D. Williams) delivered a short address, and read the adjudication of Mr. D. W. Lewis, after which the prizes were awarded to the successful composers in the annual competition which is held in con- nection with this cynjanfa. Prizes were offered for the best children's tnne on words. specially composed for the occasion by Mr. E. N. Williams (Gwernyfed), Zoar, and called "Yinladd dros y gwir (Fight for the truth). Eight tunes were received, and the prize was awarded to "LiliWen," but as no one responded to that name the prize is unclaimed. A prize was also offered for the best Congregational tune on thosG beautiful words, 0 ddydd i ddydd, o awr i awr," &c. Twenty-seven tunes were received, and the one decided upon as best was that sent in under the fictitious name of Ambrose Bach," who proved to be Mr. John Davies (loan Alaw), Salem, Merthyr. As no composer was deemed worthy of the prize offered for the best Congrega- tional anthem last year, the committee decided to offer the same prize, and the same words for competi- tion again this year, viz., Isaiah x\xv. L 10. Four anthems were received, and that of "Teithiwr Blin," was adjudicated to be the best. Teithiwr Blin," viz., Mr. Evan Ivor Price, Tabor, Cefn, was, therefore, invested with the prize. It is worthy of note that both Mi. Jonn Da vies and Mr. E. 1. Price carried off the prizes last year for the best congregational tune and children's inarch respectively. In accordance with the urual custom the successful compositions were printed in the programme for this year, and they were all sung with much "bwyl." It should be stated that Mr. D. W. Lewis adjudi- cated the compositions and expressed himself highly pleased with their excellence. The meeting was closed through prayer by the Rev. J. n. Thomas, Horeb. Thus closed one of the most successful "Cymanfaoedd" ever held in this district. The singing was of an exceedingly high order, and the singers most heartily responded to the baton of their conductor. This is the first time Mr. Lewis has con- ducted this Cymanfa," a.nd he proved himself to be a master of his work, although perfectly free from any assumption. It was evident by the way in which the singers responded to his movements that he had fully won their confidence, although a stranger to them. We hope that this will be the forerunner of many visits. The spacious edifice was uncomfortably filled in the afternoon, but at night it was simply crammed from floor to ceiling, hundreds having failed to gain admission. It is computed that there were at least 1 2,300 present in the evening service, nearly 1,000 singers being on the gallery. Mr. Tom Jenkins was the organist, and the secretarial duties were success- fully carried out by Messrs. D. D. Williams and R. Maliphant. Collections were made at eachtneeting towards the expenses. ,0

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'n. MERTHYR DISTRICT COUNCIL. Wednesday Mr. T. H. Bailey, J.P., in the chair. Present :—Messrs. D. W. Jones (vice-chairman), W. Bell, J.P., T. Jenkins, J.P., D. Davies, John Evans, Thomas Thomas, John Robert", W. IA,wi", J. Ll. Atkins, Dan Thomas, J. Harpur, H. W. Lewis, D. James, V. A. Wills, Joseph Owen, John Lewis, and Evan Lewis, together with Mr. Gwilym C. James (olerk), T. F. Harvey (surveyor), and Dr. Dyke, J.P. (medical officer). A NEW R.TE.-On the motion of Mr. D. Davies, seconded by Mr. H. W. Lewis, a General District Rate for Is. 3d. in the £ was sealed. THK BRECON ROAD HOSPITAL. — A deputation waited upon the Council praying tor the removal of the Fever Hopital from Brecon-road to a spot hetween Treharris and Troedyrhiw.—Mr. Rice, who introduced the deputation, detailed a number of ca«es which had taken place in close vicinity to tiie hospital, which he contended was the source of great danger. They further contended that the locality had not been free from fever for 17 years. —After a long dis- cussion, Mr. Harpur moved that the medical officer and the surveyor should report as to the cost of a new hospital for Merthyr and another for the lower part of the district.—This was seconded bv Mr. John Lewis, and supj>orted by Mr. Dan Thomas, who suggested that the School Board might purchase the land where the hospital stood for the purpose of erecting the proposed new school. ANOTHER DEPUTATION.—A deputation from Ca-edraw and district introduced by M). D. D. Williams waited upon the Board asking them not to tip refuse on the other side of the Caedraw Bridge, as a number of houses would be erected within 150 yards of the proposed tipping ground.—The matter was referred to the Bridges and Roads Committee. APPOINTMENT OF OVERSEERS.—The Clerk said that he had received an order from the Local Government Board conferring u)X)n the Council the power to appoint overseers. —Mr. Wills moved that they should appoint six overseers.—Mr. D. W. Jones seconded.—Mr. D. Davies thought that the more the merrier. — Mr. Wills then moved that one lie appointed from each ward, and the Chairman seconded.—Mr. Davies objected and thought they should have men who wers able and courageous. It was questionable whether the ward question was the best for the public at large.—Mr. D. W. Jones seconded.—The amendment was carried.—Mr. Wills moved that all the overseers be elected outside the Council chamber (" Oh, no ").-The Clerk said they could not go so far as that. —Mr. D. Davies said he had considered the various interests. He did not wish to he too hard on those who had done good services in the past, but they should have men who would attend to their work.—After some further discussion the Chairman ruled that only one person he nominated at a time, but nearly all the councillors objected to such a proceeding, and Mr. D. Davies was allowed to nominate six, as follows: — Messrs. Thomas Jenkins, W. L. Daniel, Dan Thomas, J. Jones (Glunynant), Anthur Daniel (Troedyrniw), and Edward Edwards (Penlan).—Mr. David Jaines proposed Mr. D. Abraham and Mr. Harpur pro- posed Mr. H. W. Lewis. Tiie result of the voting was declared as follows Thomas Jenkins 18 Dan Thomas 17 W. L. Daniel 15 Edward Edwards 12 John Jones 10 Arthur Daniel 9 D. Abraham 9 H. W. Lewis 7 A second voting was taken in the case of Messrs. Arthur Daniel and 1). Abraham, when nintJ members again voted for each.—The Chairman gave his casting vote in favour of Mr. Abraham. QUESTIONING THE CHAIRMAN'S RI LING.—Mr. Evan Lewis rose to a point of order, and asked the chair- man whether he had a right to dictate to the inem- hers. He ruled Mr. Davies out of order just now, and Mr. Lewis would like to know if his ruling was right. It was well they should have this matter clear, and know whether they could put resolutions in their own way or in the way the chairman wished. The Chairman said that every person in the room had a right to propose whom they wished. No WATER." — Mr. Dan T iomas called attention to the fact that up to last Sunday there had I)('n no water in Twynyrodyn. It somewhat reflected ujx>n the Council that they were not able to cope with the difficulties. He knew that the rec-f-nt frost was very severe, but consideied that something should lie done to avoid stoppages of water. Extra labour should be obtained to cope with the needs of the district in this direction. He had heard a great many complaint", and he hoped the surveyor would do something in thu matter without delay.—Mr. Wilis agreed, and said that great complaints were also heard in Georgetown from people who had been without water for seven weeks. -Mr. Evan Lewis The name thing refers to Gwaelodygarth.—TheSurveyor stated that a hundred yards of tho length of piping had burst at the bottom of Gwaelodygai th, but tne whole would II!' restored in a day or two. With regard to Twynyrodyn the mam there was in a very bad state, and a good deal would have to be done before they could be satisfied with the water supply. They hoped they would not have to keep the peop)e without watT much longer, but it was likely they would have to make repairs at Mountain Hare lie fore things would be satisfactorily arranged.—Mr. Evan Lewis suggested that in places where pi[>es had burst stan ling pipes be erected for the convenience of the people. —Mr. W. Lewis suggested that reports of stoppages of water be sent by the foreman to the surveyor at once. These suggestions were agreed to. TKE DOWLAIS RIGHT OF WAY.—Considerable dis- cussion took place relative to the of land pro- posed to be erected upon in Francis-street, Dowlais, which the people of Cwmrhydvl>edd declare to be a public footpath. It appears that the plans had aheady been passed in February, and Mr. D. Daviespronoted that the resolution be r<Mcinde<L- Thf Chairman ruled Mr. Davies out of order, because, according to Li e the Standing Orders, they could not rescind a resolu- tion for at least three; months.—Mr. W. Lewis Plow- is that, when you did the same thing last week ?—Mr. D. Davies: I am very glad to hear the. chairman making that remark, but I take it that if we could rescind a resolution within a week, as we did last week, we could certainly do this sort of thing in two months.—Mr. Dan Thomas: I am very glad thut the chairman has read the Standing Orders at last (laughter).—Mr. W. Lewis: It is mo<t appropriate.— Mr. Dan Thomas If you can put an illegal motion to the meeting one week, surely you can stultify your- self once more.—Mr. V. A. Wills moved that the Standing Orders lw suspended for the afternoon.— This was seconded by Mr. Dan Thomas, and carried, after which Mr. T. Thomas seconded Mr. D. Davies' motion.—Mr.. D. W. J^nes supported, but doubted the right of the Council to revoke a plan already passed.—The Cleric said they could do so if they had good reason, but as this was a question of land, and not a fault in the plan, he failed to see what the Council had to do with it. — Mr. John Roberts moved the previous question, which was seconded by Mr. Joseph Owen but on the motion being ml to the vote, Mr. Davies' motion was carried. MEDICAL REPORT.—Ihe Medical Officer n-ported i that the births registered during the first quarter of the year numbered 678, and the deaths 522. On the estimated population of 65,750, the, births represented an annual birth-rate of 41 per 1.000, and the deaths j 35"5 per 1,000. As the birlh-rat • was now in excess of the averages for the last few years, it was probable that the population was under-estimated. The death- rate was largely in excess of the average (25 per 1.000) for the last four years. The increase was due to the great prevalence of influenza, and the consequent great mortality due to acute lung diseases brought ou by that contagious malady. The number of infectious diseases during the quarter was 123, and 48 of these were of typhoid fever, 31 of erysipelas, 25 of scarlet fever and 14 of diphtheria; but neither of these maladies had assumed the epidemic form. Measles had been epidemic at Treharris, and was very pre- valent in some parts of the district. THE BURIAL BOARDS.—Mr. D. W. Jones, in accordance with notice, moved that a committee be appointed to consider the powers of the Coumil with regard to the Burial Boards under the Local Govern- ment Act of 1894, and to report as to the ad visa- bility of the Council taking over the duties of the Burial Board. They had two Burial Boards in the district, one at Merthyr and the other at Dowlais, and if the Council could carry out the duties of these Boards as efficiently and economically as at present then they should take the powers given them. And, as a preliminary to this step, he would propose that they should appoint a small committee to report thoroughly on tne matter, with a view to see if it would be advantageous to the ratepiyers generally. He personally believed that the duties could be more efficiently and economically carried out by the Council than by the Boards, because there were two offices and two sets of officers in the parish, and the election expenses of the different Boards would be saved. He would suggest as a. committee, the Chair- man, Vice-chairman, Councillors E. Lewi? and T. Thomas.—Mr. W. Lewis seconded.—Mr. Dan Thomas agreed with Mr. Jones in the main, but thought that that gentleman had not been candid enough to inform the Council that they would have to compensate the two present clerks of the Burial Boards, and this would mean an outlay of at least £ 1,000.— Mr. Jones reminded Mr. Thomas that he had not gone into the details, but simply proposed as a preliminary step that a committee be appointed to consider the matter.—The motion was carried nem. con. THE WATER BILL.—THE PRELIMINARY COSTS. The Clerk read the report of the finance committee which in addition to other things recommended to the Council the advisability of paying a bill of JB250 to the Messrs. Bell to cover the preliminary expenses of the Water Bill whilst passing through the House of Lords.—The {Chairman said that it was only right that this Bill should be passed by the Council, and not by the finance committee. He begged to propose that a cheque for that amount be drawn in order to pay the out-of-pocket expenses.— Mr. E. Ilai-e you a detailed account of how the money was spent —The Clerk No.—Mr. Lewis Then I propose that it be not paid. —The Clerk But it is the usual thin". —Mr. Harpur seconded the motion that it be paid.— Mr. Dan Thomas I rise to opixise the payment. It may be the usual thing, but the services rendered hav e been very unusual and unfair as far as the ratepayers are concerned. The instructions of the Council were not obeyed, and their wishes were over-ridden by the wishes of counsel as dictated to by vou. Until vve have a detailed account tolet us knoVhow the money has been spent I shall certainly resist. And I trust the water works committee of the whole Board will be called at a very early date. The matter is likely to come on the week after Easter, and we will have to reconsider our position. The ratepayers have spoken out with no uncertain voice.—The Chairman: Yes, especially at Penydarren (laughter).— Mr.' Dai'i Thomas: I am not afraid of the voipe even of Peny- darren oh this question, and I should like the rate- payers of Plymouth to have an opportunity of expres- sing their voice on the matter (laughter). I resist this j because the ratepayers have not been faiily dealt with, and until we have had some particulars.—Mr. W. Lewis seconded, and said that Mr. Baiiey, as the chairman, promised to give Ml". Dan Thomas and himself all the assistance possible in London. Noes- distance whatever was given, but counsel was instruc- ted by the chairman and the clerk, When Mr, Thomas went into the box to give his evidence the counsel en- tirely ignore^ the molutiuq of the majority of the li Cotincit. They were cfet at nought by tiie chairman and the olerk, whilst the Parliamentary agents were in sympathy with the letter.- TheChairman: Did not Mr. Bell tell yon that it did not matter to him how the thing went ? You did not go to the witness box in London, and did not give your evidence';—Mr. W. Lewis: We did not get th« assistance of counsel. Our own counsel cros.s-exam- ined Mr. Thomas in a most inconvenient way, and was assisted by Messrs. Craw.-diay's counsel. It appeared to me as if they were acting in concert.— Nli. D. W. Jones Was that the rea-son you did not go into the '.MJX?—Mr. W. Lewis You were vvhisper- ing in each other's ears when Mr. Thomas was in the box. Our wishes were entirely disregarded, and the ratepayers are protesting against it.—Mr. Thomas Thomas supported the amendment, and said he thought the London business had been very irregularly doae. The representatives of the ratepayers ha<» l»een very badly treated, and thev- should have a full iuves- tig-atiou of the whola affair (hear, hear). Then the chairman, the clerk, and theother two representatives would have fair play. It had been stated in London by the chairman, that the majority of the ratepayers were in favour of this most obnoxious clause, but by now the ratepayers were thoroughly convinced that what had been done in London was against the wishes of the Council and the ratepayers. The best thing they could do would be to defer the matter.— The Chairman said the clerk could obtain (larfciculars. —Mr. E. Lewis: I have heard such things as these Ijefore. "Plenty of time" were the words, and wo have been waiting for it until it h'.s gone r'-o late. We have been most ungenerously dealt with. We have had statements kept back tor nine days, and a statement made by Lurd Morley to the effect that the charges were too high, wai kept !I- ';?''>p-her. I want the chairman or the clerk to e-w>! iiii ;•> the statement wa" not conveyed to the (I i!, >1 by the letter sent from the Parliamentary ag-urs was kept back for nine days, and why undue a liautage was taken whilst Mr. Lewis and Mr. Thorna* were away in London. You are the chairman of the rate- payers, and went to London as such, bur vou acted quite differently. It was absutd that ]>eople were sent to the Council, and when they decided to do a thing their wishes should be ignored. If I had done such a thing, I should be ashamed to show my face in the Conned chamber. It is most disgraceful.—The Chairman: I cannot allow that, Mr. Lewis.—Mr. Evan Lewis: Then I will modify my remarks, and say "most objectionable." Then we have officials to whom we pay high salaries who are sent to London to repres-nt us, and instead of doing so, instructed counsel to cross-examine ollr own witnesses (" No, no," Yes, yes ").-The Clerk I have a copy of the evidence if you wisii to see it. n The Chairman said he had really said so much about this matter that he felt that nothing more could i>e said with advantage, but as Mr. Evan Lewis had thrown out a hint that he had not acted fairlv and squarely with regard to the Council, he would just ask them to listen to the address of Mr. Balfour Browne before the committee. He could have hardly put it in a more fair and just way than lie had done. —Mr. Dan Thomas Then we shall have a lot of it. The whole tenour of his address was one of hostility to what yen call the minority of the COlln- cil.—Mr. W. Lewi" Mr. Balfour Browne held a brief for the companies rather than the Council.— The Chairman That I deny.—Mr. D. Daviessaid there was so much agitation on this question that it would be better to defer it. The chairman and he were in the same meeting, and he would not forget it thiaside of the year 1900. He would suggest that a special meeting be convened to go through the whole matter.—The Chairman I have already given more time than I can afford to this question. ] have n large concern to look after, and I cannot spend more time at present. —Mr. D. Davies: In fairm ss to u< as a Council, we should hear the whole oithe speeches and evidence.—Mr. Wills asked if they could not be supplied w'th a copy each. — Mr. D. W. Jones j thought that would be the letter plan.—Mr. D. Davies believed they should hear both sides.—Mr. E. Lewis: Did not yoil hear it at Troedyrhiw (laugh- ter). — Mr. Davies said there were several important matters which should be brought under their con- sideration. They were told by the clerk that the first resolution, when seven members were present, was a good one, but in the memorable meeting where 15 were present that resolution was over-ruled. The chairman's attention was called to the illegality of such R resolution without notice having iieen given to rescind the previous resolution, but the chairman moved the resolution. The cl.-rk was. not present, and he intended to ask bis opinion on the matter whether the chairman was in order in moving the resolution on the 21st of March (hear, hear).—The i Clerk said that a good deal of feeling had been im- ported into the matter, and in certain places there had been very unfair■ eiuiea vonrs to drag in the clerk, j as though the clerk were throwing in the balance of his interest and influence with the large cotnjxiuies. As clerk to the Council and the Local Board he had always endeavoured, and would do so in the future, to obey the mandate of the majority of the Council. When a resolution was passed by five to two, he placed the resolution before the Parlimentary agents, but after consultation with a counsel, it was ascer- tained that it would not hold good unless an absolute majority of the whole Council voted for a change in the Bill. He was further charged with not having communicated at once the contents of that letter down to the country. At that time he was consider- i ably hatrased and worried about this business, aud the chairman had in his hands the views of the aliso- lute majority in favour of the increased water charges, —Mr. D. Davies That is not correct.—The Clerk Pardon me.-Tile Chairman Yes, au absolute majority.—Mr. D. Davies That cannot lie.— i The Chairman Yes, an absolute majority.—The Clerk: I thought it wUJ,llc1 be quite sufficient if tiie letter came to the Council in the ordinary way, and when it did come a special meeting was called, and an t.bsolute majority was obtained.—Asked why he did uot admit Mr. Thomas and Mr. Lewis to a consulta- tion with the counsel with Mr. Bailey, the. Clerk said it WM not usual nor professional to take clients to cpusnlt with counsel.—Mr. D. Davies; I want to know if the clerk considers that our chairman was in order in moving that resolution on the 21st of March. —The Clerk Will you allow me to explain one matter at a time?—Mr. E. Lewis You can explain that later.—Mr. Wills rose, but Mr. Davies said Pardon me, I was the first to ask the question.—Mr. Wills: It is getting very late. We had letter have another opportunity ot thoroughly thrashing it out.— The Clerk Having regard to the advice of counsel, I think it was quite right to have an absolute majority one way or the other.— After some further desultory- conversation it was agreed to hold a special meeting to consider the whole matter, on Wednesday next at five o'clock.

THE ILLNESS OF MRS. I). A. THOMAS. The many friends of the wife of our Senior Member will be glad to learn that she is now convalescent. Our readers may remember that Mrs. D. A. Thomas was taken ill during a visit to London, more than six weeks ago. She has been confined since then to her room in the Grand Hotel, but now, we are glad to say, she has so far recovered as to be able to proceed to the country for a change, and she hopes to be well enough to return home to Llanwern in a week or two.

SUDDEN DEATH OF A MERTHYR ARCHITECT. Yesterday (Wednesday) a cloud of gloom was cast over Merthyr by the announcement that Mr. T. C. Wakelintr, architect, had suddenly died. Mr. Wake- ling's private residence vva« the Park-tei race, and it seems that Dr. W..Jones, of Wellington-street, about noon was paying a piofessitin.il visit to the house next door. As he came out he saw aservant maid ru^iiin" out of Mr. Wakeling's, and she informed him that lit? master was either dead or dying. He at once went in and found the poor man iving on the sofa with his face pale and livid. On examination the doctor pio- nounced life to be extinct,, saying the man had died probably about half-an-hour Ijefore. On the floor the the doctor found a bottle of medicine half empty, and on inquiry learnt that deceased had that morning gone to Cvfarthfa Surgery, complaining of sleepless- ness, and that Dr. Rees had given him medicine con- taining chloral, a powerful narcotic drug. This was alxiut 12 o'clock, and on getting home, finding one dost failing to produce sleep, he seems to have taken four doses in less than half-an-hour's time. The result could not but hare proved fatal. Mr. Wake- ling had long been a sufferer fcom insomnia, and had been accustomed to take chloral to produce sleep. Why lie should have taken four dozes yesterday nobody will ever know the probability is that the first dose, or perhaps the first three doses, had failed to act, and that the sufferer, frantic from pain, took the four practically at one gulp. We need hardly add that no blame whatever is attached to Dr. Rees in the matter. Deceased leaves a wife and several children, and general sympathy is felt with them in their sad aftlic- tion. The inquest will be held to-day (Thursday).

EXTRAORDINARY SUCCESS IN THE TREATMENT OF OBESITY. Our corpulent readers will be glad to learn how to positively lose two stone in about a month, with the greatest possible benefit in health, strength, and muscle, by a comparatively new «ystem. It is a singular paradox that the patient, returning quickly to a healthy state, with increased activity of brain, digestive and other organs, naturally requires more food than hitherto, yet, notwithstanding this, he atisolutely lo-.es in weight one or two pounds daily, as the weighing machine will prove. Thus there is no suggestion of starvation. It is an undoubted success, and the author, who has devoted years of study to the subject, guarantees a noticeable reduction within twenty-four hours of commencing the treatment. This is different with other diseases, for the patient, in some eases, may go for weeks without being able to test whether the physician has rightly treated him, and may have derived uo real or apparent improve- inent in health. Here, we repeat, the author guarantees it in twenty four hour-s, the scale to be the unerring recorder. The treatment aims at the actual root of obesity, so that the superfluous fat does not return when discontinuing the tieatment. It is perfectly harmless. We advice our readers to call the attention of stout friends to this, because, sinceieiv, we think they ought to know. For their information we may say that on sending cost of postage (fourpence). a reprint of Press notices from some hundreds of medical and other journals—British and foreigl1-r,ud other interesting particulars, including tho book (256 pages), containing the "lecipe," car, !j{j had from a Mr. F. C. Russell, Wolmrn House, Store Street, Bedford Square.London, W.C.

Errs's COCOA.— GRATEFUL ANDCOMKORTINS.—" By a thorough knowledge of the natural laws which govern the operations of digestion and nutrition, and by a careful application of the fine properties of well-selected C'OCOA, Mr. Epps has provided for our iireakiast and supper a delicately flavoured (tcvcrftire which may save us many heavy doctors' bills. It is by the judicious use of sueli articles of (ttbt that a constitution" may be gradually built up uytil strong enough to resist e* ery tendency to disiwse. We may escape many a fatal shaft by keeping ou'.telvwell fortified wjth pllre blood and a lircll)erl nourished frame."—Seriiee *Saz?-Ttc.- Made simply with lKtiliny wat«r or miik. Suld only- in packets, bV Grocers labelled-" J.vvim En s & Co., Ltd., Homoeopathic ChNuist.¡, London." Also suiikers <»; Kpps's Cocoaine or Cocoa-Nib KNtite l A thin bevcra^ of full Aa^our. now with many !o,lIelki,dl. taking the place of ten. lis active principle bein? a uf'.tle nerve stimulant, supplies the needed enerjv without unduly exciting the system.

WHERE IS HANNAH AINSWORTH ?

MERTHYR i;UAi.>:ANS WANT £ 1^,500. Mr. F. T. Jame^ told the Merthyr Guardian* on Saturday that the estimated expenditure for the half- year ending Septemljer next would amount to £ 19,587, and of that the receipts would amount to £ 1,251, leaving a lialance of £ 13,336. The balance in the treasurer's hands up to date was £ 2,973, and after meeting liabilities, such as tradesmen's bilk, Ac., there would be only £ 339 left. This, deducted from the expenditure, would leave £ 17,997, and if they added JB590 to meet unforeseen circumstances, they would have an estimated expenditure of £ 18,WT. It was recommended that precepts be issued for £ 18,500. The expenditure for the corresponding half of last vear was £ 18,000.

THE PLYMOUTH HAULIERS. A mass meeting of the hauliers and colliers of the Plymouth Collieries was held on Monday, at the Glolje Hotel. A report was received from the joint deputation of hauliers and colliers which waited upon Mr. T. H. Bailey, asking him to withdraw the judg- ment summonses against the hauliers who were lately fined. The same deputation should wait upon Mr. Bailey again with plenary powers to arrange existing differences. Work was resumed on Tuesday pending negotiations. It now transpires that the hauliers have agreed to pay the first instalment of the fine, but it hllll not yet (Wednesday night) been decided whether the management will insist upon the I jay men c of the remaining instalments. A mass meeting of the Cyfarthfa hauliers will be held on Monday at the New Inn to discuss the present situa- tion, when Mr. Morgan Thomas will speak.

COUNTY COUNCIL ELECTIONS. The bye-elections in the Penydarren and Gelli- faelog Wards took place on Monday. Very little excitement was manifested, and on Monday evening the results were declared as follows :— PENYDARREN. Thomas Williams, J.P. (X.L.) 530 Dan Thomas (C.C.) 372 Majority 158 GELLIFAELOG. John Evans (L.L.) 281 John Lloyd Atkins (C.L.) 225 Thomas £ dward Morgan (C.C.) 154 Majority for Evans 56 ABERDARE. The result of the bye-election was declared on Mon- day evening by the returning officer, Mr. T. Phillifw, and showed the voting thus :— Mr. Richard Morgan 763 Mr. T. Whitty Evans 199 Majority 564

TRUSSES (RCPTrRE).- The Link Shell Truss is the greatest invention of modem times. Dr. Phelin, the eminent physician, writing to the Lancet, PlaY5- "It i" a truss which I always advise patients to use, It will in very many cases lie found an effectual cure." Loiwrt, says on August 4th, 1894-" It is an efficient truss for a cure." British Medical Journal, on June 30th, 1894 — It is the mast comfortable and secure truss." Mtdkal Time,t and Hospital Oazftte, says— It is a sure protection against further prolapse and cures." Edinhurqlt Medical Journal says—" It suits exceedingly well for a radical cure. Erujlith Sports says—" It is the only truss that can be worn by athlcte-s competing in races, when suffering from I Lll rupture. (Lord Kinnaird and Dr. Turner contributed.) Worn bv the late Sir Andrew Clarke, M.II. Awarded 19 Gold Medals. Worn by 698 Medical Men. Particulars, one stamp, from the Link t;hel1 Truss Co., 171 Wardour Street, London, W.

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