Weekly Mail

FURTHER EVIDENCE FROM CARMARTHEN. A further sitting of the Welsh Church Com- mission was held in London on Friday, when Lord Justice Va/iighan Williams presided over a full attendance of Commissioners. In opening the proceedings the Chairman said that they -would not be quite able to carry out the plans that had been laid down at the last meeting. Unfortunately, there was no one present to speak for the Cal- vinistic Methodists of Carmarthen. Two of the chapels were temporarily without minis- ters. The last ministers had not left the district very long, and there did not seem to be any difficulty in getting them to come and give their evidence upon some other day. But in consequence of this state of things the Commission could not finish the evidence with regard to this district of Carmarthen at present, nor until they had the evidence of such a,n important body as the Calvinistic Methodists. He thought they would be able to get those witnesses next week, as well as Mr. l>avies, the secretary of the Church for which Mr. Jacobs spoke last week, who would come to explain some of the discrepancies in the statements then furnished, such as between the entries of 105 and 2W, or some- thing of the sort. MORE CARMARTHEN EVIDENCE. The Rev. T. R. Walters, vicar of St. David's, Carmarthen, in answer to the chairman said that St. David's was a parish that was separated from St. Peter's in 1843. There was no glebe, no property, except the vicarage, and as it was under the New Parishes Act there was no ancient endowment. There was no tithe except what he paid himself. (Laughter.) The Chairman referred to a. House of Commons return of 1894, in which Cl3 was placed to the credit of witness's parish as an "ancient endowment." Witness said that the income of the incumbency included CZ03 from the Eoclesiaistioal Commissioners and £ 57 186. 8d. from Queen Anne's Bounty. That waa the whole of his income, and he had the vouchers if they were needed. In his parish there were the church, a chapel- of-eaee, and a mission-room. At the Parish Church the services were all in Welsh, those at the chapel-of-eaee in English, and at the mission-room, where only week-day services were held, the services were alternately in English and Welsh. The P&rieh Church was designed to accommodate 600 people, but as many as 1,000 had attended a special service, The chapel-of-eaae had eeating for another 600. Witness then gave details regarding the services in the churches named. He had one curate, who was paid £12J) a. year by the Ecclesiastical Commissioners. During last year there were 36 baptisms in the parish. The Sunday schools included English and Welsh sections. At the English section, held in the National Schoolroom, the numbers of males attending were 45 under fifteen years of age and 22 over that age. Of girls and women the numbers were 90 under fifteen and 80 over. They had men up to the age of 80 odd attending the schools. In the Welsh Sunday schools they had men, women, boys, and girls. The numbers were 60 under fifteen and 28 over. That was a total of 325, with 22 teachers. Witness was asked as to the. subjects taught at the schools, and gave details. Witness was then asked with regard to the church finances, and explained the offer- tories and other voluntary contributions made by the members of the churoh. Those voluntary contributions included—since 1340— S15,128 lfc. 7Jd. for churches, in addition to Z800 for the parsonage and £ 225 for the churchyard, and also £ 2,473 128.. for school building and furnish-rng, as well as £ 3,129 contributed to school maintenance. The Chairman: Do you find that you are able to unite with the Nonconformists, or they with you, for the common object of promoting Christianity ?—Yes. We are on good terms, at perfect unanimity and peace. On occasions I have had the privilege of ministering in connection with the Noncon- formist ministers. Sir John Williams: Would you preach in a Nonconformist chapel?—I don't think I should be able to do that, but I don't think I should object. You would lose your licence?—No; I should be liable to rebuke, and I do not think I should like that. Would you administer the sacrament to a reputable Nonconformist?—I have done so frequently. Would you to an unbaptised person?—I should prefer that they should be baptised first. Suppose they were not baptised?-I should have no hesitation in a case of necessity. Is it not an essential?—Yes, it is essential where it can be obtained, but it cannot always. The Chairman: You mean in coses of urgent necessity—say, approaching death?— Yes. JOINT MOVEMENTS. Mr. S. T. Evans: Is the any work or organisation carried on in common between the Free Churches and the Church of England?—There is the infirmary. But do you join with them in any meetings for the purpose of helping the infl=ary?- No; we have collections in all our places of worship. Do you meet with them on any common platform?—We have the Societies for the Pre- vention of Cruelty to Children and to Animals. Just recently we have started a movement for the purpose of providing district nurses. The Church and Nonconformist people meet at those meetings Do you hold any meetings?—There are com- mittees in the town upon which Church and Nonconformist meet. Sometimes a Noncon- formist is voted to the chair, and sometimes a Churchman. I hope that the Noncon- formists of the town respect me as much as I respect them. LAW THAT IS NOT LAW. Lord Hugh Cecil: As to mixtistratione in Nonconformist chapels, it is against the law of the Church. Principal Fairhairn: It is against the law of the land. That is a different thing from the law of the Church. (Laughter.) Lord Hugh Cecil: A clergyman would be liable to penalties? The Chairman: Now, I think we are in some confusion here. I do not know what is meant by the "law of the la-nd" or of the State, either. That is law which can be enforced by the State. If it cannot be enforced by the State it is not law. (Laughter.) Lord Hugh Cecil (to witness); You are not an ecclesiastical lawyer? (Laughter.) Witness: I am thankful to say that I am not. (Laughter.) ISOLATION OF LLANELLY DISSENT. The Rev. T. Johns, D.D., Llanelly, ex-chaar. i man of the Welsh Congregational Union, said that the number of Free Churches in Lianelly was 26, excluding the Evangelistic- hall amd the Salvation Army. The Chairman asfked if witness would try 1 cot to use the words "Free Churches," which described the political state of the Churches. Dr. Johns: I prefer the word "Noncon- formist." The Chairman: So do I. Continuing his evidence, witness said that there were in the town eight Baptist chapels j (six W-eteh and two English), five Calvinistic Methodist chapels (four Welsh and one Eng- lish), nine Congregationalist chapels (eight Welsh amd one English), and four Wesleyiam chapels (one Welsh, and three English). Lla-n- elly was a manufacturing town, and. a. large proportion of the papafraitacxn was of the artisan class. Asked by the chairman how many Episco- pal churches there were in the town, witness said, "About.-eight, I should think." The Chairman said that he had a epeciaJ reason for asking the question and putting it again. As witness saiid he could not give an answer, the Chairman said, "Very well, then; we will pass on." The Chairman then inquired as to oo-opera- tion amongst the Churches in the town. "There is very little co-operation—none at all on religious grounds," said the witness. The Chairman: I don't understand what you mean by that.—We are not on the same platform. We scarcely ever meet on the same platform. I don't understand even that. What have platforms to do with it? A Christian minister's field is not the platform, is it?— Well, we do not meet on common ground. Are the differences between the Episcopal Church and yourselves in matters of doctrine very great?—Not very. I think we are aiming at the same thing. Are the doctrines generally the same thing. For inshamce, you are all Trim-1 tariam?—We are. What are the prinoipal differences from a doctrinal point of view?—We differ in some points of doctrine. So I understand. What are those dif- fer emces ?—We all believe in the Trinity, I believe. That I understamd, but you are not quite sure of it now—you say you. believe?-We are all Trinitaxi ame. Yes, that is an essential doctrine of yourr Ghurch?—Yes. Well, we have got so far. You have infant baptism ?—We have. And you have communion services ?—Yes, we have. Sb far you have not pointed out any doctrinal differeayce between yourselves and the Episoopal Church. Can you mentioni any doctrinal differences ?-Well, I don't believe their Prayer Book contains things which I do not believe in. í I dare say, but that is not what I asked. I asked if you could specify any doctrine of the Episcopal Church, a principle which you object to as being wrong? What is it? —We do not keep a.way, as Nonconformists, from the Church of Englarad on account of alJIY point of doctrine. That is exactly what I thought you would say. Now, as you don't keep away from the Episoopal Church on any point of doctrine, what is the ground that keeps you away?—We do not keep away, but we do not co-oparaite on religious grounds. You have xot away from the point. You have just told me yo-u do not keep away from any difference of doctrine. What is it?-On account of its connection with the State. That is right. For a political wrong, or a religious reason?—We do not believe in the Episcopal Church. No. I understand that you do not believe; in Apostolic succession, and some of the other things that aire thought essential to the Church of England with reference to the powers of bishops, ordination, and so on. The difference is that you do Rot approve of the Church—of God's Church- having connection with the State?—That is the chief thing. MORE DISCREPANCIES. Witness read a prepared statement with reference to the history and work, as well as the finance and statistics, of the Congrega- tional Churches in Lla-nelly, but'the Chair- man pointed out that this could not be accepted aa evidence unles.5 it was attested in some way. There was also a lot of difference in the stat.istics in the year-books, Ac., put in, which wit,neas was asked to explain. Dr. Johns said that he would read the notes so far as they related to the history of his Church, adding, You will stop me if I go too far, my lo'rd!" The Chairman I'll try. (Laughter.) In the course of his sta;tement he showed that the cost of his chapel was C4,503, towards which Lady Stepney (the Largest contributor) give .£50. Some of the figures, with the differences in the various year-books, Ac., puzzled the chair- man, who asked the witness to take a or-at beside him amd explain some of the figures. Witness afterwards proceeded to read his prepared statement about the work of the Church, when he was interrupted by the Chairman, who remarked, "Many of the things that you are reading are oommon to every Christian Church. The desire to pro- mote temperance and morality does not exist in any one Church. You do not suggest that other Churches do not do these works? -I do not. And I don't suppose you say that theepis- copal Churoh are not doing their best to further the influence of the Gospel?—I do not. We may credit all the Churches for striving to do the best of their ability for the same oause?—Yes. The Chairman was heard to remark that the witness was delivering a speech. After Dr. Johns had read some more, the Chair- ma.n again interrupted with the remark, "I do not think this is evidence. You are addressing a very eloquent and well-reasoned essay upon the work done by the Oongrega- tional Churches. I am sure the Oongrega- tional Churches do not want any such evidence of their good work, which is recog- nised throughout England and Wales." Witness said that he wanted to emphasise the work of the Nouconformis-ts in Llanelly. Mr. S. T. Evans: inat is the point. You want to emphasise it in comparison with the work of the Church of England? Dr. Johns: Not so much in comparison as to show what the Nonconformists are really doing. CLERGY NOT INVITED TO CO-OPERATE. I Mr. S. T. Evans: Having regard to the popu- lation of Llanelly, does the Church of Eng- land sufficiently minister to the spiritual needs of the people?—No, not by any means. Most of the work is done by Nonconfor- mists?—Yes. You will find it four to one. By Sir John Williams: He would be pre- pared to preach in the Church. And the difficulty tha;t you feel lies with the Church of England clergy ?-Entirely. By Professor Henry Jones: He regarded the State support of the Church as open to spiritual objection. It was opposed to the teaching of the New Testament. He would not be prepared to accept State support for his own Church. In answer to the same commissioner wit- ness said that he wished the clergy would meet the ministers more. Mr. Frank Edwards: Are the clergy ever invited to these meetings on the posters on the walls ?—I cant say more than that I should be glad to see the clergy present at our meetings and on our platforms. Who organised the meetings?—We have a local secretary and a local committee, of which I am a member. Do they ever invite the clergy to attend the meetings?—I cannot tell you. I h-a-ve no personal knowledge of it. Lord Hugh Cecil: Are there any Roman Catholics in Llanelly?—Yes. Does the Roman Catholic priest oome to the Free Church meetings?—No, never. He would not minister in a Nonconformist chapel ?—No. Nor in a Church of England church?—I don't know from personal knowledge. You never had an opportunity of preaching in a Roman Catholic church?—No; I was only once in a Roman Catholic church. Perhaps you would not go?—I should like to have an opportunity of preaching to them. (Laughter.) You would not attend mass?—No. Lord Hugh Cecil: I believe that some people think that the differences are due to what some call snobbishness and others call narrowness, but I suggest that it is upon different grounds, just as the difference between you and the Roman Catholics is? Witness replied that he wanted to see the between you and the Roman Catholics is? Witness replied that he wanted to see the clergy at the open meetings in Llanlely. Some time a-go a Mr. Clarke held a mission in connection with the Young Men's Christian Association, and although he was the son of a clergyman and the meetings were held in a public hall, he was bound to express lis disappointment- before he went away that no clergyman had been to either of his meetings. Lord Hugh Cecil: You are aware that many Church people think the Nonconformists are wrong for separating from the Church?—Yea. LORD HUGH CECIL AND STATE ENDOWMENTS. In answer to other questions, witness said that an. objection to the Church was the existence of the State endowments. Lord Hugh Cecil: But you know that the existence of State endowments would be vehemently denied by Ohu.rchpeopIe?—WeU. it is known that the Church is endowed. But you know that the majority of Church- people hold that it is not a State endow- ment?—I don't know that, but I know that I do not want to take a penny from them. In answer to other questions, the witness again said that the people of Wales were in favour of Disestablishment. The Chairman: Then this Commission is unnecessary ?—I think the people of Wales have settled the question for themselves. And we are not necessary?—I am willing to leave it to you for inquiry. But according to you there is nothing to inquire about. The country has gone boddly for Disestablishment?—I do not say that. You will find it out before you have finished this great work. The Commission, having sat to within a few minutes of six o'clock, adjourned till Saturday.

EVIDENCE FROM LLANELLY CROSS-EXAMINATION BY LORD HUGH CECIL. Lord Justice VaugJian Williams again pre- sided over a full atitondamoe of members when the Royal OommieBknn an the WeIBh Churches resumed its sittings at the Commds- sion House on Saturday. The Rev. Maurice Griffith, M_ A C&lvrnisfcio Methodist miiniisteir, of Llajnedily, was the ftrst witness cailfled. He gave some evidence ae to the poliity of has Church. Witness put in a, copy of the Blwydddadw far the year 1906. Witness was asked, as a test, to give some of the statements from the original. In read- ing a list of the rules he read one as refer- ring to "Scattered Welshmen." (Laughter.) The Chairman: Patagonia and thfljt sort of thimg, I suppose? (Laughter.) Witness, proceeding, said that there wemin the county of Carmarthen 93 chapeJs of the denomination, with a seating accommodation of 32,700. There were 61 ministers, 19 preachers, 498 deacons, and 10,567 communicants; and 96 Sunday schools, with 1,133 teachers and 10,809 attendants. Under the head of "Hearers" the number given was 17,955. The Chairman: What are hearers?. Dean Stanley sa-id that the hearers in Westminster Abbey were those who stood behind the pillars-they could hear, but couldn't see the preacher. (Imghter.) PRINCIPAL FAIRBAIRN REBUKED. Witness having said that the "hearers" were those who attended, but were not mem- bers, was next taken through the methods adopted in his Church for the selection and election of ministers and the duties a.nd so on of deacons. Principal Fairhairn asked questions as to the difference between Congregationalism, I C ilvinistic Methodism, and Presbyterianism. The principal was about to put other ques-' tions, when The Chairman remarked that if he was to conduct the difficult task of examining the witness upon the organisation of his Church he must be allowed to exercise continuous thought. The Chairman read a revised rule, and a-dded, "They must have had some good equity lawyers t put that oonstructiOlU. upon the deed." (Laughter.) Mr. S. T. Evans remarked that "in those days" the ministers were more itinerant than they were now. Confession of faith and admission of new members were the next topics touched upon. Witness said that a member's belief was con- fessed or was assumed. The Chairman: But don't you ask for some declaration of belief?—No, except the general form of confession of belief in Christ. EXCOMMUNICATION The Chairman next turned attention to the question of exoommunicants and seceders, remarking that in Carmarthenshire last year there were 23 of one and 127 of the other, the latter, he said, including back- sliders as well aa seoedere. He asked, What is the process that you follow in excommunicating a member of the Church? Witness explained that when a case of misconduct was reported or came under notice the minister and deacons considered; the ease, and if it was felt that there was a < prima facie case two-deacons, or a deacon with the minister, called upon the member in question. Their report was given to a full meeting of the deacons, and if it were con- sidered satisfactory the matter dropped, but if it were not satisfactory the member would be informed that a full meeting of the con- gregation would be called to consider his expulsion, but he would be allowed to attend and give his explaftation. Tho Chairman referred to the number of expulsions that took placo in Carmarthen la&t year, and the witness said that they would be m?de upon grounds tha-t consti- tuted moral misconduct in a person, whether a member of a Church or not. It might be that there would be a removal from tho lielz on account of irregular attendance at, communion, but that irregularity would have gone on for sdx or nine months. There was n.) written rule upon that. It was a matter of custom in tho Church. In the course of a reference to the member- ahip of his Church the rev. gentleman said that his Church was the) one of the denomina- tion in the town at which the services were conducted in Englieh. A source of new mem- bers for his Church was found in resident families who as time went on became mo: and mere Anglicised. There were distinct evidences of the recent revival. Whilst it was in progress most of the Churches had addi- tions to their membership, but after the revival the rates of increase dropped bad: to their normal condition. Lord Hugh Cecil: Evan Roberts was not a, minister, was he?-No; he was a member. Of what Ohnrch ?-The Calvinistic Metho- dist. THE JEWS AND THE SAMARITANS. Witness was then asked by the chairman whether there was amy co-opera.t.ion between the Nonconformist ministers and the clergy of the Church of England, arnd in reply aa.id that there were man-y opportunities, but the clergy did not take part. Some of them had oo-opera.ted in corlmeetion with the Eistedd- fod and St. David's Day, but in other matters, such as the Band of Hope League, they had not dome so. The Chairman: But have they a tempera. DOe society of their own, and do they support t.ha/t?—Yes, I presume they have. We have cne of our own, amd we support the town movement. Sir John Williams: Cam a member be ex- pelled for heresy?—I never heard of one, but they may be. By Mr. S. T. Evams: He had been a member of the Church for 28 years. Since he had been a minister at Llanelly he had not experienced co-operation by the clergy art. religious meetings. Wha-t has been your obeermtion?--Ttere is a distinct cleavage between the Noncon- formists a.nd Anglicans. That is partly accounted for by the differences in doctrinal belief, but to some extent by the different status and prestige given by the Establish- ment. Does your experience in Llanelly coincide with that in other places?—Much the same. There are friendly relations personally, but we are distinct otherwise. The Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. (Laughter.) I That is the spirit?—Yes. In reply to other queries, witness said that there were Bands of Hope and other matters in the town, and again instanced Mr. Olarke's Y.M.C.A. mission. CHURCH OF ENGLAND DOCTRINES IN THE CORPH. Lord Hugh Ceeil referred to a book con- taining a copy of the constitutional deed of the Calvinistic Methodists which was printed in 1826, and read as part of the work of the Calvinistic Methodist Church that it was "to preach the Gospel in accordance with the doctrinal Articles of the Church of England." Which Articles are those? Witness: I cannot say. Replying to a further question on the same subject, witness said that the Shorter Catechism and hyper-Calvinism would not be taught in the Church now. Would it be fair to say that the four Free Churches that have been named here axe more closely linked than the others?—Yes. They make a group?—Yes. But there are points of difference tihwt pre- vent an absolute tendon'?—They would mate it unlikely. To what do you attribute the want of co- operation by the Roman CL%tbolics?-The distinctly Protestant character of our orga- nisations. You would not attend mass?—No. And you wouad not regard that as narrow- mindedn.esa ?-No. Then, would you think it narrow-minded of a clergyman in not attending a Nonconfor- mist chapel?—Well, the distinction would be in his being a Protestant. But would he not be the best judge of the theological position?—Yes. In answer to other questions on the same subject witness added, I do not think our clergy in Wales would emphasise the theolo- gical difference. It is an aloofness owing to the prestige of the Establishment." Are you in favour of disendowment?—Yes. I see that the Calvinistic Methodists raised the sum of £ 90,925 for the ministerial fund, and' £ 2,312 for the poor fund. Suppose there were no necessity of raising the ministerial fund, would the collection for the poor be larger?—No; I think we do all that is neces- sary for our poor. People would keep the money in their pockets, and not give it to philanthropic objects?—I would not say that. Suppose the endowments of the Church were taken away and devoted to secular objects?—In the case of an endowment that the Church could show a definite claim to, no Nonconformist would desire to take it away. A POSER. What would you call a definite claim?—That would be settled by Parliament and the courts, I presume. But we are here to inquire into this matter, and it would be interesting to hear your idea of what a definite claim is. The Chairman: Yes, those were his words, and I should like to know what he means by them. Witness: That there was a deed showing it. Lord Hugh Cecil: But suppose it was an endowment of the thirteenth century?—No answer. Would there then be a definite claim according to your use of the words?—It would depend upon the variation—how far the Church had been true to the trust. How far the theological tenets remained now as they were in the thirteenth century? —Yes. That would be a point to settle?—It would be one. Can you mention others?—No. Suppose the Church of England departed from its doctrinal teaching, would it cease to have any claim upon the endowments? Is that your position?—Yes. Then if it could be shown that the Calvinistic Methodist Church departed from the theological teaching of its deeds, would it forfeit its claim to its endowments?—Yes. There has been a case in Scotland. (Laughter.) You are quite right. But Parliament has interfered?—Yet?. Would you assent to the propriety of tbot interference ?—Yes. Witness, replying to another series of questions, said that the endowments of the Church that he belonged to included Church and school buildings and houses. METHODS OF WITNESSES. In announcing the adjournment, the Oha.ir- man suggested that for the future all witnesses should present a proof of their evidence. He did not quite agree with the suggestion, because it was evident that some- times the proofs included the views of the witness and also of someone behind him. But other me of the Commission were in favour of proofs being submitted, and he bowed to it. But they must be supplied all round. He had noticed that information had been supplied to members of the Commission iand not to all, and that Mr. S. T. Evans had examined openly from such proofs, Mr. S. T. Evans: Not proofs; they wesre notes of the evidence. The Chairman, continuing, said that Lord Hugh Cecil also seamed to have had some n- formation that other members had not received. They were present as Rcryal Com- missioners, and should not have sides. There should be no such thing as sides em that Commission. Mr. S. T. Evans quite agreed with what the chairman had said with regard to proofs, and suggested that the copies should be supplied in suffi-aient numbers to the secretary, who should forward them to the members of the Commission. The Chairman: I am very pleased wfith what had been done. Some people believe in my impartiality, and they have not supplied me with any such information as that referred. to. (Laughter.) The other members present agreed as to the course suggested. The Chairman added that there would be plenty of time, as the next meeting of the Commission would not take place for at least a. month.

NO REASON ASSIGNED. At Swansea Police-court on Tuesday the bench were occupied in hearing a claim for L6 4s., wages in lieu of notice, brought by a tailor's machinist, Samuel Reirn stein, against Levi Snipper, a tailor, of Union- street, Swansea. The case had been adjourned for the attendance of a Yiddish interpreter. Mr. Leeder appeared for the claimant, and Mr. Ivor Bowen (instructed by Mr. Seline) for the defendant. Claimant said that he was engaged at Is. 3d. per coat, paid weekly. Mr. Bowen, for the defence, contended that the plaintiff was not entitled to anything beyond wages earned by piece-work, and he was not dis- missed but dismissed himself. The Bench decided to dismiss the summons, and in reply to Mr. Leeder, who aeked for a reason, the clerk said the bench desired simply to pay they dismissed the I ease.

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COALOWNERS SUED -0 SEQUEL TO THE WATTSTOWN EXPLOSION. In the King's Bench Division on Saturday (before Mr. Justice Grantham), Mr. S. T- Evatis, K.C., M.P., applied that the action of Daniel v. the United National Collieries (Limited) should be fixed for trial on November 19. He said it was an action for damages for negli- gence, causing, as was alleged, a very great explosion in a colliery in South Wales, which caused the death of over a hundred persons. This waa by way of being a test action, although he was not quite sure whether that had been agreed. A large number of wit-1 loesses, mining exports, a.nd otflrers were engaged. It was a, special jury case. He asked, with the consent and for the con- venionce of all parties, that the trial might be fixed for Monday, the 19th of November. He did not think that would expedite the tnal, which would last about four days. His Lordship said, having regard to the courts that would be sitting, it was doubtful if the action would be reached in its turn by Nove-m-ber 19. He could do no more than say that it should not be taken before then, Mr. Evans said he did not think that would help anybody. His Lordship said he was afraid he could do no more. It would have to tafce its chance. Mr. Evans said he would make another application whea they got nearer the thibe. His Lordship said he could not prevent counsel doing that. COMPANY'S OFFER TO SETTLE. At a meeting of the Miners' Federation at Cardiff on Saturday it was reported to the council by Mr. W. P. Nicholas, solicitor, Pontypridd, and Mr. D. Wajtots Morgan, agent for the Rhondd,a, District, that the United National Company had made an offer of a considerable sum of money to be paid to the widows at Wattstown, in addition to their full compensation claims, with the view of settlement of the present action under com- mon law. It was resolved that the council could not advise the acceptance of this offer, but a sub-committee was appointed to deal with this matter for the purpose of opening nego- tiations with the company, with a view to a settlement.

ROYAL WELSH MALE CHOIR IN AMERICA. CRITICS PRAISE THE TREORKY CHORISTERS. The Royal Welsh Male Choir are having a triumphant tour in America, a number of successful concerts having been held. The choir reached New York on Sunday, October 14, but through the Cedric being late it was midnight instead of two p-m. when the choristers reached Wilkesbarre, and a wait- ing crowd of from 8.000 to 10,000 people was disappointed. On Monday the choir were taken through the city and suburbs in ten automobiles, which had been lent by gentle- men in the city. At four o'clock a public reception meeting was held at the B.I.A.-hall, under the presidency of Mr. Daniel L. Hart, the city treasurer, who delivered the speech of welcome. After an enthusiastic meeting it was brought to a close by singing the American National Anthem, conducted by Mr. W. Thomas. Tea and refreshments were served to the choir by Mrs. Palmer, wife of Congressman Palmer. The concert in the evening was held at the Y.M.C.A.-hall, which has a sitting accommodation of 1,500. The house had been sold out eonly in the day. All the musical critics of the city were present. In its critique of the concert a Wilkes- barre patpor stat-ed:- This male chorus of twenty voices is rich ,7-el7et,T iTl ^ery plastic in mass, infallible in precision, and giving strong aaehes of colour that kept one at a high, pitch of interest. They were very flexible also in ensemble, and worked swell crescendo and its opposite with a considerable effect. In the mezzos and forte passages the balance was even, though in the softer shades the low bass sometimes faded, perhaps through not understanding the acoustics of the hall. The execution was clean and pleasing, and the choir is really well worth hearing again —as we may hope it will be." After the concert a banquet was giwm to the choir at the Ooncorddta^haH. Much enthu- siasm prevailed, and speeches were delivered by the conductors of the Weiah and German Choral Societies and prominent citizens of Wilkesbarre. Mr. Wm. Thomas and his son (Mr. Gwilym Ithel Thomas) responded. The succeeding concerts were at Provi- dence, Scranton, and Rome. With, reference to lih-e amoett. at the latter place the "TJtica Daily Press" stated"The Royal Welsh Male Choir gave a concert in Seegar's Dancing Academy, and there was standing room only. It is safe to say that nothing to equal it was ever heard in this city. The singing of the choir was so perfect that it was as if the singing was by but one voice. The Welsh Congregational Church is to be congratulated in giving Rome lovers of music suoh a rare treat. It was a refined and appreciative audience, that was more than pleased with the entertainment." The different critics all refer in terms of OL eulogy to the lady soloists with the ohoir, viz., Miss A. Maud Cove' and Miss Eva Hall.

ALDERMAN JENKINS AND MR. KEIR HARDIE. "NOT MY LEADER, BUT MY CHAIR- MAN." The annual dinner of the Cardiff Trades and Labour Council was held on Saturday night at the Philharmonic Restaurant, Oar- diff, when Alderman John Jenkins, M.P., J.P., was congratulated by his friends and followers upon his election as member for Chatham. Mr. S. Fisiier (chairman of the council) presided. Mr. Crjossman proposed The House of Commons." Mr. Sidney Robinson, M.P., deemed it an honour to reply for the greatest democratic institution in the world. He was glad to know that the little difference about the Trade Disputes Bill had been swept away, and he hoped there would be no further difficulty over the matter. Touching upon other topics, the speaker thought the time had come for the payment of members, and he considered women ratepayers should be allowed the franchise. Mr. Jeremiah Collins proposed The Trade and Commerce of Cardiff." Alderman Edward Thomas replied. The Chairman proposed the toast of the evening, viz., the health of Alderman Jenkins, and that gentleman, in the oourse of has reply, discussed, at length liberal politics and the Labour movement. They might call him a Sociallist if they wished—he did not object in the least—for he was not frightened by the name. (Applause.) I am not," said Mr. Jenkins, a member of the Independent Labour Party. Mr. Keir Hardie is not my leader; he is my chairman. Although I seconded the nomination of Mr. Shackleton, I have never had oause to regret that Mr. Keir Hardie was made ahairman. He is fair, but what he says om public platforms we as members of the L.R.C. group have nothing to do with. The votes we give are with the progressive party, not against it, but we reserve the right to vote against even the most progressive Government if it goes contrary to the intorestr. of Labour."

"BANKER" PLAYED IN HOTEL CASE AGAINST A LICENSEE DIS- MISSED AT YISTRAD. At Ystrad on Monday James Picton, landlord of the Wyndham Hotel, Tynewydd, was sumnioned for allowing gaming on his premises. Police-sergeant Rhys Davies, Treherbert, spoke to visiting the hotel on Saturday, the 6th inat., at 8.40 p.m., in company with Police- constable Williams, in consequence of com- plaints by a Tynewydd woman. Witness peeped into the smoke-room, amd heard a voice from the tap-room say, "Put your —— penny down, man; aire you afraid to lose a penny?" Entering the tap-room, witness saw five men playing a. gcbme of cards called "banker." Cads were cut into six lots on the bench, and five men-Willia.m Henry Davies, Frank Phillips, John Evans, John Williams, and Evan Matthews-were in a crouching position on their heels on the floor Sums ranging from a. penny to sixpence were on the cards. Mr. W. P. Nicholas, who defended, sub- mitted that he had no case to answer, as the landlord had not seen the card-playing going on. » The Bench were of the opinion that there was not sufficient evidence to bring the case home; consequently, it would be dismissed.

WELSH COMPULSORY FOR THE MERTHYR OFFICIAL RECEIVERSHIP. Mr. W. L. Daniel, official receiver for the .Merthyr District. retires at the end of the year. It is stated that a petition has been sent to the President of the Board of Trade asking that his successor shall be able to speak Welsh, and that Mr. Lloyd-George has made this a condition of the appointment. The fact that the person appointed will be required to devote all has time to the duties has sevcrou solicitors from angrium

NAKED LIGHTS IN MINES COAL-DUST EXPLOSIONS AND THEIR CAUSES. In the House of Commons on Monday, Mr. MARKHAM (R., Notts, Mansfield) inquired whether, seeing that Mr. A. H. Stokes, his Majesty's Inspector of Mines, in his report for 1905. stated that the disastrous explosion at the Manners Colliery showed that even a well-ventilated mine could not be trusted with naked lights, reports had been made by other inspectors of mines as to the danger to life caused by the use of naked lights. Mr. GLADSTONE (Home Secretary) replied that the danger of the use of naked lights in mines which were subject to fire-damp was one to which attention was frequently called by the inspectors of mines. Mr. MARKHAM inquired whether, seeing that a report received by the Government on the Oourrieres disaster attributed the cause i of the disaster to coal-dust explosion with- out any evidence of gas being present, any steps had been taken to get special rules established prohibiting the use of naked lights in all British mines. Mr. GLADSTONE, in reply, said it would be impracticable to attempt to establish a special rule prohibiting the use of naked lights for every mine in the country. Special rules had to be proposed separately for each mine, and must have regard to the particu- lar state and circumstances of the mine. If the owner objected to a rule proposed for his mine, he had the right to take the matter to arbitration. It wa-s by no means every mine in the oountry which was liable to a coal-dust explosion. In those that were so liable the mere prohibition of the use of naked lights alone would not be sufficient protection. The question, however, whether the existing rules as to the use of safety lamps required amendment had been referred to the Royal Commission on Mines now sitting. SHOT-FIRING. Mr. FENWIOK (Lab., Northumberland, Wansbeck) inquired whether there was any case where a coal-dust explosion had been caused otherwise than by shot-firing, and whether legislation would be introduced to deal with shot-firing in mines. Mr. GLADSTONE replied that this subject had also been under the consideration of the Royal Commission, and, of course, no legis- lation oould be undertaken before the report was received. COMBINATIONS OF MANUFACTURERS. Mr. LLOYD-GEORGE, answering Mr. Ohiozza-Money. said ho had heard of the existence of combinations of manufacturers, and the Board of Trade were fully alive to the importance of the matter, bat he was not prepared at present to introduce legislation on the subject. WIRELESS TELEGRAPHY. Major SEELY (R., Liverpool, Aberoromby) asked the Prime Minister whether the British delegates at the International Conference on Wireless Telegraphy were empowered to sign any binding agreement on behalf of this oountry. The PRIME MINISTER said the delegates at this conference were acting under instruc- tions from his Majesty's Government. Any convention agreed to would be reserved for subsequent ratifica/tion. He could may nothing at present as to opportunity for dis- cussion in Parliament.

BISHOP HUGHES CRITICISED ALLEGED UNDUE FAVOUR TO' UNDENOMINATTONALISM. The following somewhat severe criticism of the policy which has been adopted by the Bishop of Llandaff in some matters appears in the "Church Timaes" "Churchmen within the diooese of Ilan- daft: are groaning under a fear beside which the deliberations of the Churcih CcranmssMm are of little moment. On more than one occasion lately, at public meetings in and around Cardiff, both clergy and. laity have given strong expression to tihe pain and regret with which they view the encourage- ment given by the lord bishop of the diooese to each and every movement promoted under the specious title of unde nominationalism. On account of the peculiar needs of a colliery population, it was the custom in some parishes, for twenty years before the present bishop's advent to the see, to hold a con- firmation annually on a Sunday afternoon. To the sorrow of the respective incumbents, Bishop Hughes refused to continue the prac- tice, as he objected to Sunday work. Those who knew the Church's local requirements were very grieved to pee an old tradition broken, but. grief mixed with astoniab-ment when they found that the bishop could devote Sunday afternoon to the undenomina- tional work of presiding over a P.S.A. in the Park-hall. Cardiff. Nor is tibia nil. His lordship sees ftt to enter parishes, whose incumbents are rigo- rously opposed to undenominationalism in any form, in order to encourage the work of the Y.M.C. A. The courtesy due to the incum- bent of soliciting his views as to the need of such work in his parish is overlooked, and, by so entering, his lordElhip, unintentionally no douot. tells the world that the incum- bent, who is his representative, is incapable of managing the parish."

HIS LORDSHIP REPLIES TO HIS CRITICS. Gatherings were held at Pontypridd on Monday with the object of furthering a scheme to build an extensive institution in connection with the Young Men's Ohristia.n Association. In the afternoon a luncheon was served in the Town-hall to a represen- tative gathering, at the invitation of Sir Alfred Thomas, M.P. Mr. H. M. Gregory, J.P., presided for Sir Alfred, who was detained in Cardiff, and extended a welcome to his guests. Lord Kinnaird, who was warmly received, pointed out that the movement -had been taken up by all progressive nations, more particularly the United States, Germany, and Great Britain. In Germany there were 1,950 branches of the association; England 1,905, and the United States of America 1,702. A public meeting was held at night at the Town-hail, the chair being occupied by the Bishop of Llatudaff. The Bishop said that in a London news- paper article, which strongly attacked him, the main cause of complaint was that he had been announced to preside over a. meet- ing of the Young Men's Christian Associa- tion art. Pontypridd. He would not say any- thing fnrtiher than quote the motto which appeared over the Aberdeen University, Folks say, wha.t say they? Let them say." (Hear, hear.) The article referred to condemned him for sup- porting such an association. Had there not been misconception such words would not have been written. For the past thirty years, his lordship cladmed, he knew some- thing of the work of the Young Men's Christian Association, and he always enter- tained the highest opinion of it, a.nd its good work would, no doubt, continue in the future. It had been stated that the society might be the means of admitting a form 01.. Unitarian teaching. He would not say a word against Unitaraariem, but a newspaper containing a letter from a, local Unitarian minister had been sent to him, in which the writer said tlheut he and his congregation could not support the Young Men's Chrds- tian Association because of the religious views taught by the association. That was a complete answer to the article referred to. He always held with the fundamental princaples of the association, and he would always lend it his support.

GALE IN CARDIGAN BAY. A fierce winter gale of wind, rain, and hail, aocompanied by vivid flashes of light- ning, was experienced on the Cardigan Bay coast, Merioneth, on Sunday night. Lightning struck a house on the hills above Aber- gwynolwyn, Towyn, entering, annarently, by the chimney and going out through the window. The shock destroyed all the furni- ture in the kitchen, where husband and wife were at supper, stunning both. When they recovered consciousness they were found amongst the debris. Fortunately, they escaped serious injury. The room was greatly damaged in several places. The lamp which was on the table was extinguished, end an old oak dresser was ruined. The roof was also damaged.

ILL-TREATED WOMAN; 4 SPLOTT "BANKER'S" FAMILY PLIGHT. A sad phase in connection with mysterious disapearance of George Matthc tho Splott banker," came before ilr. 1 Milner Jones at Cardiff Police-oourt J Friday upon a summons issued [the National Society for the tion of Cruelty to Children. Proc* ings were taken by Inspector Edward eon (one of the local officers of the socie" and the defendant was Mrs. Emily the banker's wife. The latter was ^ressvLjj, black, and was given a scat in theJpTjj where she sat down wearily and appli^ handkerchief to her sobbing eyes, and it there all tho while. Mr, David, for the prosecution, | this was a particularly sad case, in v the poor woman in the dock was chars with neglecting two children—Grace. five, and Ernest, aged ten. He did not his worship would have any difficulty the facts, or in coming to the conclusion > these children had been neglected, and she, fx> some extent, was responsible. He bound to say, however, that the main r ponsibility was not hers. He did not ktl}{1'. whether the matter had been before Milner Jones), but the husband was a. who carried on some money-lending busin66^' His Worship: That has been before Mr. David: Matthews has absconded, you hear his wife's story I think yoa come to the conclusion that he been an unmitigated blackguard, ing this poor woman with the tItta0woe c-ruelty. I think, probably, so far are concerned, that these proceedings not have been taken by the society eX in her own interests and in the of the children. The woman's present dition of physical collapse and the suffer* of the children are, I am inclined to the result of neglect. The poor woman i* no friends to take care of her, and she 11 care; she cannot take rooms because 6,« has no money to pay for them. I thin^ .'a she could be prevailed upon to go into workhouse that would be the best thing eå her, and, so far as the society is concern they would be satisfied. The society does want to take proceedings which may in a conviction. We merely ask for an or»er for the custody of the children. His Worship (to prisoner): Are you wil^p to go into the workhouse with the The woman answered in feeble accents her friends didn't want her to go, but herself was willing. Hia Worship: Is that sufficient? < Mr. David: Ought there not to be an ordeff His Worship: I might adjourn it sine Mr. David: I was just going to tha.t, and then we can bring it on any dal- His Worship (to prisoner): If you unde" take to go into tile workhouse with the ol" dren to-day I will adjourn the summons sill die, but if you don't go, or if you go avra.1, the summons will be brought on any Are you willing ?—Yes. One of the children, Gracie, the cb^ adopted by the banker, was in court; tO other is tn the workhouse infirmary. The case was formally adjourned sine di°- Mr. David made a further application '^1 a warrant against the husband. The conditiØØ of the house in which the family lived ø deplorable. His Worship asked what was the conditio^ "Excavations," replied Mr. David. TI", place has been pwaotacally excavated. Thert a.re planks to waJk on. and the ceilings tracked. Ho has taken away the fu.rnitØ and fold the greater pert of it. i Dr. Williams (one of the district medi officers) certified that the neglect was 01 more than a month's standing. Mr. David: He may come back. were boaptitaiity provided for him elsewhere Vo should not apply for this. Mr. MQner Joraes t see no harm in hav*11" a waeraot.

REVIVAL AT BARGOED. ) &N OUTBURST OF RELIGIONS j FERVOUR. j Bargoed wae religiously stormed' on Fri night when a party of evangelists in persons of Miss Annie Davies, Miss mago" j Davies, the Rev. Juji Nakada, Mr. D. ThoIJlaØ t (London), and Mr. Stalker (the Aniericsll Quaker) viBited South-street Primitive Metbol dist Church to continue the ten days' teJØ" perance mission organised by the local PROO Churches Council. The Rev. Harri Edwards conducted the service, which, from the start had a revIV33 tendency. In a brief address the Rev. T. 3forgaill declared that many in the House of I had been raised from the beerage to 9 peerage. In 1904 there were 129 M.P.'S. lords, and. 818 titled personages interested 113 drink, but in 19C6 they had 159 totill abstainers in the Commons. He hoped tP" see Mr. Evan Thomas in the House shortlf4, (Clywch, clywch.) Before the. Rev. J.Na&ada rose to the polP# he was seen to be labouring under deep emotion, and for twenty minutes he wae on his knees and in tears. Mr. D. Thomas meaOj while delivered an address, which aroused intense revival fervour and enthusiasm. an« then the Japanese missioner ascended blo pulpit. His early words were greeted wit" applause, but he checked this by saying was not a time for dapping1, and the rest ot his remarks were greeted with rapt atten- tion. At the conclusion of his oration be called for converts, and many hands were put up. These persons remained for prayet a.fter the meeting had been dismissed. A sol" was given by Miss Annie Davies. It is not improbable that the party of evangelists will tour through America in near future.

TRAMP LOOKED BULKY. ARREST OF AN ALLEGED BURGLAIM NEAIR NEWPORT. At Newport Town-hall on Monday John M'if,o cheJl, alias James Morgan, of no fixed abod was charged with burglary at 3, CMfton-place* Newport, on Friday morning. The catch of the breakfast-room window at 3, Clifton-place, where Mr. Edwin Thatcher resides, had been forced back, and a lot of plated goods, a pair of boots, spectacled overcoat, and other articles, together with a bottle of brandy, taken from cuP- boards and drawers, which had been ran- sacked. Mr. T. Miles Thatcher, jun., b been to London^ and reached home at a.m., so the police got early tidings of th0 robbery. At eight a.m. the same morning officer Stephens, of the county police- stationed at1 St. Merlon's, saw the prisoner coming from the direction of Newport. He was wearing a mackintosh buttoned up to the chin, and as he looked bulky the officer stopped him, opened his coat, and noticed that he was wealing what proved to be the ntoleO overcoat underneath. At the police- the prisoner was found to have in his posses- sion £10 worth of swag. which jointly belonged to Mr. Thatcher and kr. Edward Blake, who lived at the same address_ Prisoner, a maddiLe>-aged man, told th officer that he bought the things from two men whom he met outside Newport that morning- Head-constable Sinclair asked for a remand in order to complete the oase, and prisoner was accordingly remanded until to-morrovf (Wednesday).

DRUNKENNES AT NEWPORT AMerman Mordey, spokesman of the New- port magistrates on Monday, referring to the group of young men who made first appearances for imbibing unduly, said there appeared to be a new generation of drunkards coming on. In each case Mr. W. H. Brown, J.P., askr(i the men where they got the drink. "Oh, two or three 'pubs' coming up the town." said one, whilst in amother case Sergeartl Friend explained that the helplecs one (46 young fellow from Ebbw Vale) had been to the football match, Springboks v. Newport. The M,a,gistra.tes' ..derk (reflectively): 1'111 aifra-id the match was the cause of a good deal of drunkenness on Saturday evening. The Magistrates demurred audibly to this opinion, amd the magistrates'-clerk did not pursue the line of thought. The defendants got off with Be. fines.

) The World IZin4#,r tvith the praise of 1 RIYS STA- RD POWDER j? T{ich in J/ufnajert t—J)elica te in flavor. i WWW™ECCS! N0 risk* 1(0 troublei W Hlrf BIRD'S CUSTARD is the one thing needed with all Sin»erf, v fcHtbem 0,1 *>rutts- lb enhances their flavor a^tmparta