The Aberdare Leader

Aberaman. MINING.—The illuminated address pre- sented by the officials of the Treaman and Llettyshenkin Collieries to Mr Benjamin Lewis, colliery manager, is now on view. Mr Lewis has just been promoted to the management of the Cwmneol Colliery, Cwmaman, and his erstwhile colleagues at Aberaman, availed themselves of this opportunity to mark the esteem in which they regarded him, and their appreciation of his promotion. LOCAL POLICE ENTERTAINED.—On Wed- nesday week Mr E. M. Hann entertained the Aberaman section of the Aberdare police to a sumptuous dinner at the Swan Hotel. An excellent entertainment followed over which Inspector David presided. Harmony was contributed by some mem- bers of the force and some local artistes, including Mr Gus Preece, comedian. Mr T. Davies, Globe Hotel, Cwmaman, was the harpist, and Mr Sage, organist of St. Margaret's, accompanied on the pianoforte. The dinner was given by Mr Hann to mark his appreciation of the work of the local police, and in an address he highly com- plimented them upon their efficient service. On the proposition of Sergt. King, seconded by Sergt. Angus, a cordial vote of thanks was accorded to Mr Hann.

Cwmaman. MISSION.—In connection with the English Baptist Church the Rev R. B. J one of Ynyshir (late of Porth), will conduct a week's mission at the Public Hall, in Feb- ruary. This visit of the great Baptist orator is eagerly looked forward to. The rev. gentleman has just concluded a won- derful mission in North Wales, which has been attended by remarkable results.

Penrhiwceiber. FAILURE. The first meeting of the creditors of Edwin J. Ellaway, baker, 116, Penrhiwceiber road, was held at Merthyr on Tuesday. The liabilities were stated to be zC326 19s Id, of which C315 was expected to rank for dividend. The assets were £50 3s 9d, leaving a deficiency of C265 10s Id. Tne debtor ascribed his failure to ill-health for three weeks, heavy rents, and losses on baking through not being able to attend to it himself.

Ynysybwl. OBITUARY.—Rev John James, curate of Christ Church, died suddenly on Thursday night, after a short illness, at tlitJ age of 60 years. He had been in charge of tha curacy of Ynysybwl about 15 years. He leaves a family of grown-up daughters, one of whom is Miss Howard James, head mistress of the Cardigan County Schools. The interment took place at the new ceme- tery, Ynysybwl, on Monday,

Aberdare Police Court. On Tuesday, before Messrs D. P. Davies and D. W. Jones. DRUNK AND REFUSING TO QUIT. Thomas Davies, 36, Cardiff street, Aber- dare, was charged with being drunk and also with refusing to quit the Bunch of Grapes Hotel, Aberdare, and assaulting Mrs Fyfe, the landlady.—Mrs Fyfe said that the defendant entered the house, but was refused to be served, as he was under the influence of drink. He was asked to go out, and went quietly as far as the door when he turned round and struck witness in the face.— Replying to the Bench, defendant said he was sorry for the assault, for which, how- ever, Mrs Fyfe was prepared to forgive him. —Fines of 10s and costs and20s and costs were imposed for the two offences.—P.C. Pittaway gave evidence for the prosecution. NON-MAINTENANCE. D. Lloyd, Dare Court, Aberdare, was charged under a judgment summons for not complying with a maintenance order.—Mr LI. Richard, warrant officer of the Merthyr Union, prosecuted.—Defendant, who did not appear, was sentenced to 14 days' im- prisonment.

TRESALEM NEIGHBOURS AT WAR. Rose Heath was charged with assaulting Sarah E. Lloyd, Robertstown.—Complainant said that defendant came to her house and threatened her. Then when outside the house defendant struck her.—Defendant: It is a lie.—Mrs Heath made a statement to the effect that complainant called her little boy a ginger headed little devil," and then assailed her with a cannonade of invectives. —Complainant denied having called anyone a devil.—George Cheek corroborated Mrs Heath's statement. He heard Mrs Lloyd calling Mrs Heath's boy some uncomplimen- tary names. Complainant afterwards showered abuse on Mrs Heath, and what the latter did was in self defence.—Mr D. P. Davies advised the parties to go home and live peacefully together. The case was dismissed. DRUNKS. John Davies, Cwmbach, 5s and costs; Edward Sullivan, Trecynon, George Black- more, Cwmaman, W. J. Davies, Aberaman, Joseph Walker, Aberaman, and John Thomas, Trecynon, 10s and costs each. n

Sale bills, circulars, etc., neatly printed at the LEADER Offics, Market-street, Aberdare.

Letters to the Editor. LETTERS on any subject of public interest are invited. It should be understood that we do not necessarily agree with the views expressed therein. Correspondents will oblige by writing on one side of the paper, and must invariably enclose their names and addresses, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of good faith.

THE ABERDARE URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL." MR EDITOR,—May I ask if any of your readers can answer the following questions through the LEADER 1st, Is it true that about X150 of the ratepayers' money has been wasted by not accepting the lowest tender for 13 horses for scavenging. 2nd, Why was the lowest tender not accepted. 3, Why was three pence per horse given over and above last contract.—I am, FAIR PLAY.

RELIGION AND THE BLACK ART, SIR.- Kindly allow me space to reply to your correspondent Truth" who wrote under the above heading in your issue of the 7th inst. I deprecate as much as he the habit of praying for people by name in public (except by their own request). It is inexpedient and totally unnecessary, for The Lord knoweth what we need (and desire) before we ask Him." Would not the better method be to hand up to the minister a paper containing special requests for prayer to lay before the congregation ? But the statement that Nonconformity is running amok is unworthy of the writer. It is untrue, and as to the persecution of anyone, there is nothing of the kind. There are perhaps a few converts who have more zeal than discretion, just as there are zealots on the other side like my friend Truth," whose passionate tirade is sufficient evidence of his intense hatred of Christianity (or perhaps Nonconformity only). "Black magic indeed I don't see the connection. I confess myself a sceptic where magic is concerned, that is in the sense in which the word is understood to-day. Surely Truth you would not kindle a fire in emulation of those who burnt witches in the dark ages." If so, who is the persecutor (at least in spirit) ? It is scarcely worth while taking up your accusations against the churches, seriatim, but one implication cannot be allowed to pass unchallenged, viz., that "praying men are not workers for the common good." What of Gladstone, who set aside honours and preferment in order to serve his country and his race ? What of Bright and Salisbury and General Gordon ? What of Broadhurst, whose fearlessness and devotion to the common weal were only equalled by his piety ? What of Cardinal Manning or Hugh Price Hughes ? These were praying men, were they not workers in any department of life? What of our own Canon Jenkins, of sacred memory, "he was instant in prayer, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord" and his generation. Many of the leaders in Trades Unionism to-day are men of prayer, and this list can .be enlarged ad infinitum. I readily con- cede that all the good men are not in the churches, but most of the great workers without, if they wrote their autobiographies, would confess to a strain of Christianity in tilreir oon3titutjon" I too Vmvo hair on my head," but I have to confess that there are many things taking place in this world which I do not see. There are probably many factors in the progress of the race of which I am not cognisant. We are so short-sighted where other people's virtues and work are concerned. As to the Revival, it has come to stay, and no power on earth can stop it until its course is run. The churches need it, the world needs it. Personally I find no fault with the attitude of the LEADER towards the Revival. Its criticisms have been fair and not unfriendly. In conclusion, although not a rash enthusiast I confess myself a dis- ciple of the Nazarene, and a "praying man." I have, perhaps, never been a great worker," but I have had the unspeakable joy of helping to improve the religious, social, and economic condition of my fellow toilers, and I am a poorer man than I would have been had I minded Number one," but there are compensations. This perhaps savours of egotism, but is provoked by the ungenerous criticism of my friend Truth," Wishing the LEADER success. & I remain, LAYMAN.

ABERDARE ELECTRIC TRAMWAYS. SIR,—Whether tramways will pay finan- cially in Aberdare or not, there is no doubt but that they will be a great convenience to all as well as benefiting us physically, intel- lectually and morally, and this no doubt, to a large extent, influenced the majority at the public meeting held last week, to vote in favour of the Tramway Scheme. It will be a comfort and convenience to the workmen going to and coming from work. Again it will be a boon to the inha- bitants of Aberaman, Cwmaman and Cap- coch, who now pay towards the maintenance of the beautiful Park at Tre- cynon. but cannot partake of its benefits owing to its great distance. With a good and cheap service of trams the distance will be materially reduced. Again it will to some extent solve the housing question. In the event of a stop- page in one district, the people could find employment in another, while the trams would carry them to and fro, thus reducing the overcrowding in the immediate districts around which employment is plentiful. Not only that, it would enable the inhabi- tants of this valley to more fully realise their common interests and unity, as was pointed out by the Rev. J. M. Jones, while scientific, social and-political lectures given in one place could be better attended by visi- tors from other districts. Yet, with all the benefits to be derived, we find people objecting and using all their influence to persuade others to object, simply because they fear it would add another Id or 2d to their rates, while they have large sums of money in alL kinds of rem merative investments, so that they will nev r have to feel the pinch of poverty. The comfort, convenience and pleasure of th3 many is of no value compared to the feared loss of a few penca to their indi- I vidual purees. Even supposing that a loss will be en- tailed, is it not right to practice as well as to preach our duty of serving huma- y ID nity and sacrificing ourselves for the sake of the many ? But are we so sure that it will not pay financially as well ? Many persons are afraid that no other towns with a popula- tion so low as Aberdare have gone in for trams. In order to dispel such an idea, I append this list of towns, each one of which has a population less than that of Aberdare, and either has trams in working order, or in course of erection :—Colwyn Bay with Llandudno, population 20,000, constructing; Glossop, 21,526, just opened; Lowestoft, 29,850, just opened; Ayr, 30,000, profit £ 6,834 Batley, 30,321, just opened; Pont- ypridd, 33,360, constructing; Southend, 35,000, profit X2,165 Darwen, 40,000, profit X2,479 Dover, 41,800, profit £ 3,157. Colchester (38,351), Lancaster (40,329), Ashton-under-Lyne 43,890) are also con- structing or extending tramways. Com- pare Aberdare with its population of 45,000 and its intended tramways of 4t miles, with 2 the above towns. One man was heard to say after the meeting that there were only 2 towns where trams did pay. For fear there may be others like him, I submit the following for their consideration. The middle column shows the surplus income after interest and repayment charges have been paid :— Net profit. Rates reduced by £ £ Bolton 14,909 4,966 Glasgow 242,832 25,000 Hull 25,173 14,500 Leeds 76,104 62,000 Liverpool. 75,497 25.166 Manchester. 69,551 30,000 Nottingham 30,852 18,000 Sheffield 28,168 16,000 Salford 13,008 10,000 Aberaman. W. W. PRICE.

Chamber Concept at Aber- dare. The first Chamber Concert of the third season, organised by Mr Rees Williams and Mr W. J. Evans, Aberdare, was held at the Memorial Hall on Thursday evening. The hall was comfortably filled by a music- loving audience, who fully appreciated the efforts of the artistes. The concert party consisted of Mr Arthur Angle and Miss Edith Abraham, violin; Miss E. Griffin, A.R.C.M., viola; Mr Percy Angle, violin- cello Mr T. Smith, double bass Mr Eli Hudson, A.R.C.M., flute, and Madam Eleanor Jones, R.C.M., vocalist. Miss Abraham accompanied. The programme opened with a quartette from Mozart, a piece selected for com- petition at the next National Eisteddfod, A Woodland Serenade," a song given by Madam Eleanor Jones, with flute obligato by Mr Eli Hudson, followed. Then came a flute solo Concertino," by Mr Eli Hudson; sixtette by the six instrumentalists song, Softly sighs (Weber), by Madam Jones flute solos, Idyll and Valse by Mr Eli Hudson, and quartette from Schuman's Op, 41, by Mr Angle's string quartette. The next concert will take place on Feb- ruary 2nd.

Recital at Aberdare. Mr Fred Duxbury, of Manchester, the brilliant elocutionist, gave a recital at High- land Place Unitarian Church on Monday evening last. In the absence of Air Isaac George. High Constable, Councillor L. N. Williams occupied the chair. The pro- gramme was as follows :—Song, The river of years," Miss A. G. George recital, The old clock," Mr Duxbury; song, "City of light," Mr George Jones; recital, Love in a bal- loon," Mr Duxbury; song, The old veteran," Mr D. Matthews (Ap Tudor): recital, The bells," Mr Duxbury, encore, Child's essay on a cow song, Daddy's Angel," Miss Gwen John; recital, Settler's story," Mr Duxbury; song, "As the hart panteth," Miss M. M. Davies, Cwmdare recital, An Irishman's love for his children"; song, "May Queen," Miss Gwen John; recital, "Ruby." Miss A. G. George accompanied. The recitals of The old clock" and Settler's story," two poems full of human interest and pathos, were greatly appreciated. His recitals of Love in a balloon," Ruby," and others, convulsed the audience with laughter. The musical items, too, by the local artistes, were well received. Miss Gwen John gave two songs in a charming manner, and Miss M. M. Davies, Cwmdare,'gave a splendid rendering of "As the hart panteth."

ROUTS C;œSTA D Completely supersedes the use of Eggs in 8 the preparation of High-Class Custard— g Greatly increases the popularity of all Sweet I Dishes-The unfailing resource of every 8 successful hostess. 8 RICH IN NUTRIMENT. | DELICATE IN FLAVOR. BIRD'S Custard is the one thing: needed with all Stewed, Tinned or Bottled Fruits. It enhances their flavour and imparts to them a grateful mellowness. NO ECeS! NO RISK I NO TROUBLE I

THE RETORT COURTEOUS.—Snapp "He's got a scheme for making money that seems to be all right in theory."—Skrapp Oh, all men with theories are fools! "-Snapp: "Indeed! That's your theory, is it ? "WHAT do you mean by sins of omission? "Sins one ought to have committed and didn't! IN CASE OF DOUBT. -First Consulting Physician: "I don't know what in the world is the matter with that patient." Second Consulting Physician: "All right, then, we'll operate on him for appendicitis this afternoon." JUST A SUGGESTION.—Fond Mamma: "Yes, darling, those little boys next door have no father or mother, and no kind Aunt Jane. Wouldn't you like to give them something r "— Dorothy (with great enthusiasm) "Oh, yes, mamma Let's give them Aunt Jane! 4 A GOOD PAIR.—"Oh, yes, we get along excellently together. You see, he never borrows anything but trouble, and that's all I ever lend!"

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Mountain Ash District Council. The fortnightly meeting of the above body was held on Tuesday, Capt F. N. Gray presiding. The other members present were Messrs J. Jones, E. T. Williams, J. Charles, Bruce Jones, William Davies, J. Powell, D. Rogers, H. Price, W. Millar, W. S. Davies, T. M. Bevan, Major Morgan, Rev E. V. Tidman, with Mr H. P. Linton (clerk), Mr F. Stock (assistant clerk,) and Mr W. G. Thomas (surveyor). WELSH EDUCATION COUNCIL. The following resolution was on the agenda in the name of Mr D. Rogers. In moving the resolution Mr Rogers said that the principal object of the scheme was the training of the teachers, which in itself was a very important matter. Then there was the inspection of schools and possibly other things would be incorporated in the scheme, because the Council would open out the whole question of Welsh Education. He thought it would be greatly to the bene- fit of education, especially in Wales, as it would be carried forward according to Welsh ideas, and not, as heretofore, according to English ideas. It was possible that some- thing could be done for the Lower Grade of ex-P.T.'s. He proposed the adoption of the scheme, subject to the insertion of a clause promoted by the Rhondda District Council, with regard to the rate of autonomous areas. Mr E. T. Williams seconded. Mr W. S. Davies said he would not pro- pose an amendment, but if they carried the resolution the Council would be composed of people who had expressed themselves not desirous of carrying out the terms of the Education Act, and he for one would not identify himself with such a resolution. Mr Rogers motion was carried, Mr W. S. Davies, Mr T. M. Bevan and the Chairman voting against, and Mr W. Millar, Major Morgan and Mr Bruce Jones remaining neutral. APPLICATION. Alfred J. Sinner, sewer foreman, made an application for an increased salary --Pief er. red to the Wages Committee. MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT. Dr Evans reported the following cases of infectious diseases :—Scarlet fever, 2 en- teric, 3; puerperal, 1 erysipelas, 2. Mr D. Rogers said he was given to un- derstand that scarlet fever or scarletma was very prevalent in Ynysybwl. The head- master of Cribyndu School had approached him with reference to closing the school. The attendance was very low owing to the fever. According to Dr Evans' report there were only two cases of scarlet fever. He would like the medical officer to make en- quiries whether the ;-chool had better be closed. SUK; >. Mr John Jones drew LuC attention of the Surveyor to the need of some improvements in Station street, Abercynon.g P.S. Rees, Abercynon, was appointed Lighting Inspector in the place of P.S. Davies. Rev E. V, Tidman complained that the scavengers were not paying attention to Arnold street, Mountain Ash. Mr T. M. Bevan remarked that Glanley street, Penrhiwceiber, needed a little more attention. Mr J. Charles said that the nomenclature of Miskin streets was a little imperfect.

".L"RE FRIVILEGE OF WEALTH.—Miss Mabbs-. "Mr. Einshtein doesn't behave as if he belonged to the best society, does he ? "—Mr. Dabbs "No. He behaves as if the best society belonged to him." CONSULTING AUTHORITY. Sunday school Teacher: "Why should we not cast pearls before swine, Johnny Smith "-Johnny: "I'll ask -father. He's a pork butcher." MAKING UP THE AVEKAGE.—Mrs. B. "This is disgraceful! You'll have no one to thank but yourself; I've warned you often enough how you are shortening your days.)Ir. B. ""Xtt,, my dear; but you don't seem to realise what long nights I'm having." BEFORE AND AFTER. — "Before we were married," said she, "his displays of affection were positively overdone."—"And now r"- "They are very rare." CONDITIONAL UNITY. -Priest: "Well, Dennis, you're married, I hear. How do you and your wile get along together? "-Dennis "Well, yer riverence, Oi t'ink we get along best together whin we're apart." BROKEN OFF.—Miss Brown: "How did Mabel come to lose her engagement ring ?"—Miss Jones: "In washing her hands of the gentleman she was engaged to." THE LATEST.—She: "I see that the next time the King goes on the Continent lie is going to travel iner,.g.He: "Oh—ah—yes. New kind of motor-car, I s'pose l' Eh—what ? FULL-BLOWN ROSE: "What a pity, dear, you are engaged so young. You will never have the fun of refusing a r-i". "—Bud "No, but I've had the fun of accep: ie."

PRINTING. Every description of Printing executed at the LEADER Office, Market Street, Aberdare. I The very best work possible in PHOTOGRAPHS BLACK &WHITE WATER C-OLOUR OIL PAINTINGS Is only obtainable at THE TRIUMPH STUDIO Station Street, (Directly opposite the Police Station), Aberdare. J. HARRIS, Proprietor. PAINTING CLASSES WILL BE HELD AT THIS STUDIO. Subjects Taught: LANDSCAPE. SEASCAPE, FIGURE AXD FLORAL PAINTING. TERM COMMENCES JAN. -76tll, 1905. Classes commence, Mondays, 7.30 p.m. Thursdays, 7,30 p.m. Saturday mornings, ir Paintings onl Silk, Satin, Porcelain and Canvas. For terms and "particulars, apply J. HARRIS, Triumph Studio. Are you aware «=>>f THAT THE CASH-INLAND STORES, ABERAMAN, Are always'jiLEADING in PRICE and QUALITY. OUR GOOD Scare the?Best Brands obtainable. A CUP of PHILLIPS' 1/8 TEA is a Luxury. Welsh Bacon and Butter always]!n Stock. WHITCOMBE HOUSE, 2 GLOUCESTER ST., ABERDAREJ MORGAN N|0RCAN, Auctioneer, Valuer, Accountant, House and Estate Agent, Fire, Accident and Plate Glass Insurance Agent. RENTS COLLECTED. M. M. personally attends to collecting, also holds Certificate to levy distress for rent. (Late 6, Whitcombe Street.) A. OEPPEN Aberdare, Mountain Ash & Porth. You will find has a nice sele tion of All KINDS of TOBACQQNIST's GOODS Try our Special Loose Shag 3d per oz. Loose Mixture 4d per oz. Our noted 2d. and 3d. Smokes 5 and 7 for a Is. Wholesale and Retail. Duncan Jeffries Cab Proprietor, Posting faster, &c., 18 Catherine St., Aberdare. o: Open and closed carriages. Nat. Tel. 0143. Bradbury's Sewing 5 Machines. J. BUGLER, 420, Cardiff-road, Aberdare. Agent over 21 years 275 RATS FOUND DEAD. Mr. REID. Professional Rat Catcher, writes from Blair Castle. —"A few hours after using Rodine Eat Poison I found 275 Rats, I have been Rat Catcher for 45 Years, and never saw anything so deadiy." Rats Like it, Eat it, and Die. Price-Is., 2s. Is., 5- Post, 2d. HARLEY. Chemist, Perth. Agent, W. H. Jones, Chemist, Aberdare. The man who does not believe in adver- tising, generally believes in advertising his own convictions.