The Aberdare Leader

PERFORMANCE OF "THE HOLY CITY. n In spite of the bad weather a good aud- ience assembled at the Constitutional Hall, Aberdare, on New Year's Eve, when the choir of Horeb Church, Llwydcoed, under the conductorship of Mr. J. B. James, gave a performance of the well- known cantata, The Holy City (Gane). The chair was occupied by Councillor T. Walter Williams, B.Sc. The choir were assisted by the following artistes:-So- prano, Madame Mills Reynolds, L.R.A.M., Pontypridd; contralto, Madame Cassie Rees Jones, R.A.M., Talywain, Mon.; tenor, Mr. Watkyn Phillips, Aberaman; bass, Mr David Chubb, Pontypridd (win- ner of nine National Eisteddfod prizes). An opening solo was given by Mr. David Chubb, after which Madame Reynolds, Madame Jones, and Mr. Watkin Phillips contributed solos.. The performance was afterwards proceeded with, and the ren- dering of the several choruses was superb. The soloists performed their parts very effectively, and that their per- formance, as well as that of the choir, was kighly appreciated was apparent from the applause to which the audience continually gave vent. To the conductor is due the heartiest of congratulation for the success of the affair. The choir had the valuable assistance of Mr. J. Arkite Phillips' Orchestra, comprised as fol- lows —First violins, W. Carroll and Mor- gan Williams; second violins, Rd. Wal- ters; viola, W. Davies; "cello, W .E. Thomas; double bass, J. Minett; flute, E. Phillips; oboe, J. Arkite Phillips; clarinet, D. Williams; comet, J. Rear- don; assisted by two first violins and one second violin from the Horeb Church Orchestra. Miss Amy Davies and Mr. W. B. James accompanied.

TABERNACLE, ABERDARE. Under the auspices of the Tabernacle Y.P.S. a social tea and entertainment were given at Tabernacle Vestry. Tray- holders: Miss M. Lawrence and Miss Lloyd, Herbert-street, who were in charge .of the arrangements; Miss Hop- kins and Miss S. Davies, Miss May Morris and Miss Alice S. Williams, Miss Vaughan and Miss Richards. After tea Mr. J. Morris, Director of Education, presided over the convivial gathering. Mr. Morris spoke highly of the annual reunion as an effective means of cement- ing the friendship existing between the friends at Tabernacle. After a chorus by the choir, conducted by Mr. R. Hopkins, A.C., "Sing we now in song," Miss Alice S. Williams, L.R.A.M., gave an overture on the pianoforte, "Beethoven"s Moon- light Sonata.JJ Song, Sweet Kitty Clover/ by Mr. W. J. Harris, was en- cored. Song by Mr. Tom Morgan. Chorus, Father Neptune," by the choir. Duet, Miss May Hopkins and Miss Sarah Davies (encored). An item that was greatly appreciated and loudly applauded was a Shakespearian recital (Hamlet) by the famous actor, Mr. Harding Thomas. Later on he gave a most thrilling recita- tion, The fiddler and his dog," in true dramatic fashion. A laughing eong was given by the choir, and this was fol- lowed by a sneezing song, both of which created amusement. Just before the ^troke of midnight the Rev. J. M. Jones, addressed the meeting. First of all he remarked how it felt to be 35. Then eiij<>ined all to regard the New Year ..h reverence, at the same time main- S'ng freshness. Then the hooters and A/r- Yf.re heard, and the meeting closed. Aiss Alice S. Williams and Mr. E. Moses "cc,c)lnpa,nl-ed during the evening.

CALFARIA, ABERDARE. I In connection with the Zenana Mission largely attended meeting was held at yalfaria Hall on Thursday night, pre- fi. y ^le J- Griffiths, pae- A h 4fter,an opening solo by Miss Mary u' i •' an<* a*1 appropriate address by the chairman bardic addresses were delivered by Me^rs. John Lloyd, D. Richards, Joseph Davies, and the chair- man. Solo, Miss Eira Edwards, "Kil- larney." Competition reading unpunctu- ated prose, Mr. Philip Jones. Solos by Miss Mary Jones Miss Bessie Rees, and Mr. David John Pugh. Recitation, Miss Kosie Jones. Competition, impromptu speech, Messrs Thomas Morris and David Richards. Recitations by Miss Annie M. Williams, Mr. David Richards, and Mr. I-iornas P. Morris. Competition, reading music, Mr. John Lloyd. The recitations, ?!r" ,were adjudged by Mr. John Lloyd. Mr. W. H. Perkins was the secretary, while Miss Anthony was in charge of the commisiarat. The trayholders at the tea were --Mrs. Picton and Mrs. Hall, Miss Evans, Stuart-street, and Miss Wil- liams, Seymour-street; Mrs. Morgan, Herbert-street, and Mrs. Rees; Mrs. Jones, Monk-street, and Mrs. Rees, Pen- da rren-street; Mrs. Philip Jones and Miss Roderick; Mrs. Jenkin Evans and Miss Evans; Mrs. Hayter and Miss Bessie Rees; Miss Morgan, Tudor-terrace, and Miss Bessie Lloyd. Bread and butter cutters: Mrs. Thomas, Stuart-street; Mrs. John Lloyd, Mrs. J. Evans, Ynys- lwyd-street. Sugar and tea, Mrs. Rees, Wind-street. At the door: Mrs. Jones, High-street, and Miss Roberts, Stuart- street. Cake cutter, Mr. E. G. Henton. Water, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Lewis. Several of the ladies were picturesquely attired in Zenana fashion.

HEN-DY-CWRDD. A tea and entertainment were held at H eo-dy-Cwrdd until the New Year had been ushered in. After the tea the following children were presented with books for faithful attendance at the Sunday School:—Thomas Geo. Morgan, Sarah A. Davies, Wm. P. Davies, Olwen Morgan, Maggie J. Davies, Idris Davies, Thos. J. Lewis, Eliz. A. Morgan Ellen A. Davies, E. Glyn Evans, G. Morgan, Viv- ian Hamson, David John Davies, and I. Davies. Mr. J. Stanley Evans presented the books to the children. Mr. D. R. Davies was the chairman, and speeches were delivered by Rev. R. J. Jones, Messrs. David Davies, Richard Jones. John Davies, and Ebenezer Davies. Other items in the programme were re- citations by Mr. Lewis Lewis, Mr. Albert Howells, Miss May Llewellyn, and Mr. David W. Davies; duet by Mr. D. R. Davies and Mr. J. S. Evans; songs by Mr. W. T. Davies, Miss Edith Howells. and Mr. John Davies. A nigger sketch was afterwards given. the following being the dramatis per- sonae: Mr. Podges, Mr. Evan Edwards; Sambo, Mr John Thomas; Pete, Mr. W. T. Davies; Ben, Mr. J. S. Evans; Joe, Mr. J. Ivor Davies. This farce was very cleverly enacted, and caused roars of laughter. Mr. Richard Davies per- formed the secretarial work.

ABERDARE I.L.P. To welcome the incoming of 1909 a grand coffee supper was held at the Insti- tute on Thursday. The members of the Women's Branch had decorated the room in fine style. The tables were pre- sided over by Mrs. E. Davies, Mrs. Matt Lewis, Mrs. Jones (Oak-street), Mrs. Par- rington, Mrs. J. H. Bruton, Mrs. Griffith Jones, Mrs. S. Williams, Mrs. Ben Davies, Miss Ruth Davies, Miss Lacey, and Miss K. Lewis. The whole arrangements were in the hands of the secretary of the Women's Branch, Mrs. E. Davies. A concert was held under the presidency of Mr. Matt Lewis, when the following programme was gone through: — Song, Don't let her lose her way," Mr Gomer Key; song, "Nelly Green," Mr. Samuel Davies; recitation, Rienzi to the Romans," Mr. E. W. Davies; song, Mr. Evans; reading, Mr. Jack Phillips; song, Mr. John Davies; Mr. Gomer Key gave a fine rendering of topical verses com- posed by Mr. Matt Lewis; song, Mrs. Matt Lewis; chorus, Mr. Sam Davies' party. Mr. Geo. Thomas was the accom- panist.

SOCIAL AT SOAR, ABERDARE. A social was held at Soar Cong. Chapel to welcome the New Year. The school- room was prettily decorated by the young ladies of the church. The tables were presided over by Miss Maggie Richards, Miss Mary A. Jones, Mrs. Davies, and Miss A. Evans, assisted by Misses Lizzie M. Davies, Dinah Jones, May Abraham. and Lizzie Davies. Cutters: Mrs. Benja- min and Mrs. Davies. Messrs. Dl. Jones, W. J. Jones, John Lewis, and Wm. Lewis also assisted. A concert was held after the tea. The Rev. J. Tudor, B.A., pre- sided.

MILL STREET BAPTIST CHAPEL CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOUR. A meeting of the above society was held on New Year's Eve. The president for the evening was Mr. Wm. Samuel. The meeting was opened by Miss Esther A. Edwards, who read a portion of Scripture. Mr. Willie Griffiths led in prayer. An interesting paper was read by Mr. E. J. Jones on At the end of the days (Dan- iel xii., 13). The following members afterwards spoke: Messrs. Wm. Samuel, F. Bevan, Willie Griffiths, R. D. Phillips, Mrs. Sarah Jenkins, Mrs. Jas. Forward, and Mrs. W. C. Williams. Following this meeting a watch-night service was held until the New Year was ushered in, when an address was given by the Rev. Izdy, of Armenia.

EBENEZER YOUNG PEOPLE'S M.I.S. TRECYNON. A social tea was held in connection with the above society at Ebenezer Hall on New Year's Eve. Miss Edith Ed- wards gave an opening solo. The follow- ing ladies presided at the tables:—Miss Edith Edwards and Miss Martha Ann Thomas, Mrs. T. Voyle and Miss Mary Phillips. The following ladies acted as bread and butter cutters: Mrs. Garrett, Mrs. Jones, and Mrs. Lewis. Cake cut- t ters: Messrs. J. Wigley and Idwal 1 Thomas. After the tea. a most enjoyable < evening was spent in games, etc. A very ] amusing dialogue was rendered, entitled, 1 rf Pwv byth gymer wraig tra bo gwragedd ] Pel hyn," by the following members of ;he society: Misses L. Thomas and Mary ] jfriffiths, Messrs. W. J. and J. Thomas, f i'he following were the successful com- ] :)etitors in some amusing competitions: ] 1) Fixing a donkey's tail (blindfolded), ] vIr. J. R. Davies. (2) Drawing a pig I blindfolded), Miss Lizzie Thomas. (3) Blowing out a. candle (blindfolded), Mr. r. B. J. Thomas. (4) Best short story, Mr i Phillip Jones. (5) Reading an unpunctu- ] ited piece, Mr. B. J. Thomas. The meet- i :ng drew to a close a.s the New Year was ] leralded in. Mr. Idwal R. Thomas pre- f ;ided. A liaartv vote of thanks was I passed to the ladies presiding at tables ] md to the chairman. The secretarial z luties were, efficiently performed by Miss £ Itfary Jones and Mr. W. J. Thomas. ]

BETHESDA P.M., ABERDARE. ] ] A bachelors' tea, entertainment, and r vatch-niglit service constituted the cele- ] )ration of New Year's Eve at Bethesda. t riie trayholders were: Messrs A. Bryant, F. Escott, and J. W. Tinney. Assist- mts: W. Wilcox, junr., E. Bugler, Favender, S. A. Tinney, R. R. Tinney, kV. G. Tinney. Cutters up: T. Reynolds, iV. Frame, H. G. Gerald. The entertain- g Dent consisted of a mouth organ solo by c ilr. O. C. Bugler; duet (violin and harp), rj tfessrs. J. W. Tinney and E. Bugler; j olo by Mr. Tom Frame. The watch- j light service was conducted by the Rev. >] [\ H. Bryant, circuit minister, and con- j :inued untilafter the stroke of midnight- j

I ABERDARE LIBERAL CLUB. } A whist drive and smoking concert were I I leld at the Liberal Club on New Year's I Eve. The prizes in the whist drive were I %warded to Mr. D. Rees Charles (1st) and tfr. Joe Daniel (consolation). Councillor VI. J. Harris presided over the subse- i luent proceedings, and in opening the neeting told a good story. He said that i few days ago he was approached by a voman who asked him if her mother-in- aw, who was 65 years of age, was en- :itled to an Old Age Pension. He replied :hat she was 5 years too young. "Well," plied the daughter-in-law, "she hear- tily deserves a pension, if anyone does, £ 'or she has buried three husbands and is 1 ;he mother of 23 children." (Laughter.) 1 In the course of the evening, Mr. Rees i rhomas, College-street, who is leaving I Aberdare to take a situation in London, < Rras presented with a silver cigarette I case. Mr. Morgan Watkins made the presentation on bjptalf of the Club, and ] Mr. Thomas briefly returned thanks. ( Mr. D. M .Richards gave an address, in which lie reviewed the political situ- ] ation. 1908, he said, would go down to history as the year in which a great deal of attention had been devoted to social i reform, and the year in which the Old Age Pensions Act had been entered upon 1 the Statute Book. The last year was a memorable one in many respects, and he hoped that 1909 would be still a more memorable one. The items in the programme included a pianoforte overture by Prof. R. Howells, clarinet solo by Mr. Levi Morris, song by Mr. Tom Price, violin solo by Mr. D. J. Maddox, and a selection by Mr. Levi Morris' band.

NAZARETH ENGLISH BAPTIST CHURCH, MOUNTAIN ASH. The adult scholars of Nazareth Sunday School held their annual social on New Year's Eve. There was a large number present, and a splendid evening's enjoy- ment ensued. Various games were plaved, interspersed by the following items:—Solo; Mr.s. Brooks. Punctuation competition: 1st prize, Miss E. Watkins; 2nd, Miss H. Davies. Recitation, Mr. W. Brooks. Solo, Miss S. A. Tite. Club display. Master B. Curnow. Impromptu speech, subject, "Your opinion of the Suffragettes," 1st, Miss P. Charles; 2nd, Air. F. Jefferies. The following assisted with the refreshments: Mrs. Tidman, Mrs. Charles, Mrs. Philpin, Mrs. Soper, Miss F. Davies, Miss S. A. Tite, Miss A. Davies, Miss E. Watkins, Miss H. Davies, Miss P. Charles, Miss P. Payne, Messrs. T. Charles, G. Crane, F. John, Mr. Phillips, and Mr. Ray Jones. After 11 o'clock all went to the chapel, when the usual watch-night service was held. An appropriate sermon was preached by the Rev. E. V. Tidman, A.T.S.

RHOS M.I.S., MOUNTAIN ASH. To ring out the old and to usher in the New Year, the Young People's Society of the above church decided to hold a coffee supper and miscellaneous concert. Al- though the society had catered for about 350, it was soon found necessary to ob- tain extra provisions, for over 500 friends sat down at the nicely laid and decorated tables. These were presided over by the following :-M1"s. Dd. Phillips, Mrs. John Jones, Mrs. William James, Misses G. Williams, A. Davies, S. Edmunds, M. Evans, Williams (Ceridwen-street), K. Llewellyn, A. Bowen, L. Evans, Prothero, and N. James, assisted by Messrs. T. Williams, T. Evans, I. J. Smith, Tom and Morgan Richards, T. J. Edmunds, D. Prothero, Misses M. Thomas, M. M. Davies, Payne, B. Powell, Bennett, O. Evans, and Jones. Carvers, Messrs. Hugh Ellis, John Lewis, Mr. and Mrs. Thos. Richards, Foundry-terrace. Bread and butter cutters, Mrs. Steven Davies, Mr*- Edwards, and Mrs. David Davies. Tea and coffee, Mrs. Edmunds, Mrs. t John, and Mrs. Protheroe. The follow- ing gentlemen also rendered valuable assistance: Messrs. John Davies, John Richards, David Thomas, David Evans, A. James, D. G. Jones, William Howells, and Thomas Bumford. Afterwards the pastor, the Rev. R. S. Rogers, B.A., presided over an appreciative audience. An address by the chairman was followed by a pianoforte solo nicely given bv Mr. J. W. Evans, Adv. R.A.M. Mrs. L. J. Davies (Llinos Llwchwr) rendered in her usual fine style "The Beggar Girl." Miss A. Davies sang Gwiad. y Delyn" with fine effect, and a pianoforte solo by Miss S. A. Powell was well received. The contralto solo by Miss S. Davies was high- ly appreciated. Too much praise cannot be given to Mr. T. Edwards, R.C.M., who very kindly contributed to the enjoyment of the evening by his excellent rendering of the Welsh Air, "Cadbeit Morgan." As the Old Year was fast drawing to its close, the pastor spoke a few appro- priate sentences, and the entertainment terminated by the audience singing Y Nefol Gor," afterwards heartily wishing each other a happy and prosperous New Year. The secretarial duties were carried out by Mr. Idris J. Smith, who is also the secretary of the Mutual Improvement Society.

SEION, ABERDARE. A social tea was held at 8 o'clock, under the management of Miss R. A. Davies and Miss M. May Jones, assisted by Mrs. Nicholas, Mrs. Phillips-West, Miss Fox, and Miss Maudie Jones. During tea a gramophone entertainment was given by Mr. Isaac, L.E.G., Mountain Ash. At 11 o'clock a watch-night service was com- menced by Mr. Henry Lloyd (Ab Hevin). Addresses followed by Mr. T. J. Howells, L.E.G., and Rev. Ll. A. Jones. A collec- tion was made towards the Children's Home.

PROVIDENCE, MOUNTAIN ASH. The members of the above place of wor- ship held their annual New Year's Eve ;ea party and entertainment last Thurs- lay evening. The tables were nicely .aid, and the good things were dispensed iy the following ladies: Misses J. Long- man and E. James, Misses H. Rees and E. Evans, Mrs. T. Jones and Miss Moore, Misses H. Powell & M. James, Misses A. Sheldon and J. Hobby, Misses E. M. Evans and J. Powell. The cutters were: Misses H. and B. Powell, A. Reynolds, Mrs. Knight and Mrs. 1. Jones. Helpers: Messrs. A. Hobby, Owen Davies, F. fames. T. Hobby, G. Harries, S. Powell, r. Warren, W. Landeg, and G. Cole. The :ea brewing was in the hands of Mr. A. Phillips. A splendid entertainment vith competitive items was gone through, Mr. J. Powell, M.E., presiding. Piano- a 'orte solos by Miss Hilda Powell and Miss I M. M. Rees. Solos by Mr. D. Bowen and I Miss Mildred Davies. Duet for bones md pianoforte by Master Willie Eynon md Mrs. Idris Eynon. Dialogue by Miss G. James and Mr. A. Hobby. The following competitions were de- | sided: Rice pudding, Miss Mildred Navies. Welsh cakes, Miss E. James. Jove letter, Mr. E. H. Gay. One of the cost_ successful evenings ever enjoyed at rVovidence was brought to a close with ;he usual votes of thanks.

PRIMITIVE METHODISTS, CWMAMAN. x On New Year's Eve the annual coffee upper in connection with the above 1 :hurch took place at the schoolroom. Cbere was a very good attendance. The ollowing presided at the tables:-No. 1, rIrs. Cook, Miss Rhoda Cook, and Miss A. Phomae; No. 2, Mrs. Woodhams and Mrs TI, Locke; No. 3, Miss A. Davies and diss B. Oldfield; No. 4, The Misses lughes. Carvers: Mrs. E. Oliver, Messrs. W. Kingsbury and T. T. Morris. luttere: Mrs. Henry Davies and Mrs. red Gillard. Assistants: Messrs. H. )avies, D. Woodhams, W. Cook, G. )owns, H. Polkinghorne, and J. Hughes. Vfter the supper a concert was held, pre- ided over by Mr. T. Oliver. Soloists Mrs. E. Locke, Miss L. Kingsbury, and Mr. Allen. Elocutionist, Miss M. Llew- dlyn. Selections on the phonograph by Mr. J. J. Davies. Accompanist, Miss L. Kingsbury.

CONVERSAZIONE AT CWMBACH. c On New Year's Eve the annual conver- lazione in connection with St. Mary Magdalene's Church was held, when a arge company attended. Tea was served n the National Schools. The event had seen energetically worked up by two YJDlmittees, which comprised of the fol- owing:—Gentlemen's Committee: Mr. c James Lloyd (chairman), Mr. James f Davies (secretary), Messrs. John Davies, Charles Davies, Fred Jones, George Ven- c ibles, Alfred Sweet, and D. J. Jarman. Ladies' Committee: Miss Maggie Jones :treasurer), Mrs. Albert Jarman, Mrs. i Pugsley, and Mrs. John Davies, Tir- tounder-road. The tables had been pret- tily laid out, and were presided over by the following ladies:—Misses May Lewis and Ethel Lewis; Mrs. Rees, Tirfounder- < read, and her daughter; Mrs. R. H. Jones, Greenfield-terrace, and Mrs. Dunn < Jones; Mrs. Morris, Rose-row, assisted by Mrs. E. Jones, Mrs. A. Williams, and Miss Morris. The cutters up were: Miss M. Jones, Mrs. John Davies, Mrs. A. Jar- man, and Mrs. D. G. Pugsley. Door- keepers: Messrs. Chas. Davies, J. Davies, Alfred Sweet, G. Venable, and Fred Jones. At the concert that followed the Rev. W. H. Jones, curate, presided, and the following took part:—Songs: Miss Gwen Williams, Johnny Bevan, L. Bebb, Dan Morris, Mrs. Morris, Dan Palmer, and Tommy Rees. The accompanist was Mr. Johnny Jones. The games of musi- cal chairs and general post were played by the audience in general, and the de- votees of the terpsichorean art then went through the following dances: -Military two-step, Caledonian, Lancers, Barn-door, Waltzes, Emperor, and de Albert. The M.C.'s were Richard H. Jones, W. H. Jarman, and Tommy Rees. Every- one went home quite pleased with the en- tertainment.

COFFEE SUPPER AT CWMAMAN. On New Year's Eve the annual coffee supper in connection with the English Baptist Church was held at the Public Hall. A large number attended. The following presided at the tables:—No. 1: Mrs. Addis, Mrs. G. Morgan, and Miss Roberts. No. 2: Mrs. W. R. Jones, Miss E. Lewis, and Miss M. J. Lewis. No. 3: Mrs. Maddern, Mrs. Davies, and Miss Bessie Morgan. Ham carvers, Mrs. Cheap and Mrs. Williams. Bread and butter, Mrs. Lewis, Mrs. A. Jones, and Mrs. Beauchamp. Assistance was given by the following: Rev. A. T. Phillips (pastor), Messrs A. Kedward, Fred Jones, W. G. Roberts, W. J. Russell, J. G. Davies, H. Jones, J. A. Davies, W. Hughes, J. Roberts, A. Thomas, and E. Beauchamp. Mr. R. Lewis, Llanwonno- road, gave some selections on the gramo- phone. The secretarial duties were ably carried out by Mr. H. Scammel and Miss M. J. Roberts.

NOS GALAN YN Y FFRWD. { Wedi cwrdd yn gwmni diddan Yn y Ffrwd fel hyn Nos Galan, Cwrdd o ffarwel i'r hen flwvddvn Sydd a'i hoes ar ddod i derfyn. Cawsom ganddi bedwar tymor, Ac ni all'sai roddi rhagor; Llwm a llwyd eilgwedd yw heno Ei hawr ola' sydd ar daro. Wrthym bu yn hael a thirion, Cawsom ganddi fyrdd o roddion; 'Nawr yn llaw ei Rhagfyr lleddfol A i feddrod y gorphenol. Croesaw ro'wn i'r flwyddyn newydd, } Doed i chwyddo ein llawenydd, Medda drugareddau fyrddiwn I goroni byd, gobeithiwn. Yn dymuno mae fy nghalon Flwyddyn Newydd Da, gyfeillion, j I chwi oil, a blwyddyn ddedwydd [ Fyddo ini gyda'n gilydd. DEWI DUDOCH. i

Mountain Ash. FIRST ANNUAL E ISTEDDFOD t Will be held in the DRILL HALL ON MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22nd, 1909. PRESIDENTS Afternoon-Dr. Arthur T. Jones, Mountain Ash. Evening-J. Powell, Esq., BI.E., Cwmpennar { ADJUDICATORS Music Roderick Williams Esq., Cardiff; E. T. Jenkins, iiisq., JLI.I.S.M., Penrhiwceiber. Recitations and Love-letter-Rev. D. Jeremy Jones, Mountain :Ash. Conductor D. Price, Esq., Mountain Ash. Accompanists—Tom Jones. Esq., L.R.A.M., Aberdare Miss Powell, wmpennar. CHIEF COMPETITIONS. Male Voice Choir: "Valiant Warriors" (D. Jenkins). Not under 40 in number* Prize £ 10. Mixed Choir (not under 30) Nazareth" (OUK,^EWIS' ES(I-' A- MUS- T.C.L.. Alaw Rhondda.") Prize £ 7. Juvenile Choir (not under 30) The Heavenly Dove (Tom Price). Publisher, Mr. Tom Price. Merthvr. Prize £4 Prizes for Vocal Solos. Children's Solos. Children's Pianoforte Solo and Violin Solo. Recitations and Love-Letter. Eisteddfod to compieace at 2 o'clock. Pre- liminary Tests at 10 o'clock. Tickets Reserved seats. 2s. 6d. Second do., Is. 6d. all other seats, Is. Proceeds in aid of Pro- vidence English Congregational Church Funds. Programmes lid. each, post free 2d., may be obtained from the Hon. Sees n1. A11 „ OWEN DAVIES, The Olives, Allen Street, Mountain Ash. „ WM. PETERS, Confectioner, Oxford St.. Mountain Ash.

Aberdare School of Commerce, Civil Service, & Correspondence College. Principal J. MARSHALL, F. INC., S.T., F.S.C., ete., Students rapidly prepared for Com- mercial and Civil Service appointments. Lucrative positions secured for all qualifying for Commercial appointments. Students are efficiently prepared for Pupil Teachers, Prelim. Certificate and Certificate Examinations. Success GUARANTEED to WORKERS in all branches. Full particulars re Terms, Entry Forms, etc., of any of the above on application to the Secretary.

After getting the best of a man in one deal, steer clear of him, fOT he will be- gin to sit up and take notice.

MERTHYR'S GREAT BARGAIN CARNIVAL I R. T. Jones & Co.'s ANNUAL Winter Sale COMMENCES TO-MORROW, Friday, Jan. 8th, 1909, tnd CONTINUES DAILY during this Month. For full particulars, please see inside. Again we have been thinking and planning for the welfare )f our patrons, and just at the right time-in the middle of he Winter Season, when so many new things are required- ve come to the front with Reduced Prices and Special Attractions. Most Ladies know, from experience, the values we offer Lt our Sales, but on this occasion we believe we are better itted than ever to serve you. Certainly, we have Bargains galore in every Department. The lateness of the Season has resulted in our having a Large Stock of New and Up-to-Date Goods. 3n hand, which we must clear out to make room for the Spring Goods-hence the very low pricing. Always remember that every Article or Garment that we sell is of Sterling Merit. Nothing has-been bought for the sake of making a show of low prices. The Sale is a Genuine Reduction of Prices on our High-class Goods-Goods that will give you Complete Satisfaction. Just call in, and have a look round. In every Depart- ment you will find your money go twice as far as you ex- pected it to. A Stock amounting to £ 30,000 os. od. (Thirty Thousand) in value to select from. Terms CASH.—NO DISCOUNT. DflOT HDUCDO Receive the most care- ruo I unucno ful and pr.°,pt tion. R. T. JONES." Co., Ceneral Drapers, Complete House Furnishers, Gent's Mercers & Outfitters, MARKET SQUARE, Also High Street, Central Street & Victoria Street, Merthyr.

BETHEL, GADLYS. Here, a tea, concert, and presentation meeting were held. The tables were pre- sided over by Misses Lydia Phillips and Rachel Evans, Tudor-terrace; Mrs. John and Miss John, Gospel Hall-terrace; Mrs. Lewis, Gadlys-street, and Mrs. Jones, Tudor-terrace; Mrs. Jones and Miss Richards, Tudor-terrace; Mrs. Griffiths, Broniestyn-terrace, and the Misses Bo wen, Oxford-street. Water boiler, Mr. John Jones, Tudor-terrace. Bread and butter cutters, Mrs. Jones, Cartref, and Mrs. Davies, Gospel Hall, and Mrs. Jones, Oxford-street. Cake cutter, Mr. Evan Evans. Tea brewer, Mrs. Battenbo. Secretary, Mr. D. J. Williams; treasurer, Mr. J. Jones, Car- tref. At the meeting which followed, the Rev. W. D. Barber, late of Trecynon, who was brought up at Bethel, was pre- sented with a number of volumes, sub- scribed for by the young people of the church. These were formally handed over to the recipient by Mrs. Jones, TLidor-terrace, who delivered a neat little speech. Other speakers were Messrs. Lewis Jones, T. Morgan, and Rev. Lewis Davies, Painscastle, Rad., who referred to the fact that Mr. Barber had recently accepted a call at Carew, Pem. Mr. Barber was also presented with a beauti- lu1 inkstand, executed by Mr. Jenkin Jones, Gospel Hall-terrace. Rev. W. D. Barber briefly responded and thanked the donors for their gifts. The following' programme was gone tllrotigli: -Address- by the chairman, Mr inomas Battenbo; solo, Mr. Jenkin -"ones; violin solo, Mr T. C. Griffiths; re- Pl i?11' -George Morris; song, Miss TT oe „ ,Jenkins (verses composed by Mr .nowell Ellis, Wayne-street); also penill- lon smgmg by Mr. Ellis, and songs by Messrs. Henry J. Watkins, Trevor Jones, Jonan Bo,ve11) and Wm. George; Misses Bloawen Edwards and Beatrice Evans.

NODDFA, TRECYNON. A bachelors' tea was held at Noddfa, and was attended by a large number. The bachelor trayholders were: Messrs. Thomas Evans, Ebenezer Richards, Dan- iel Thomas, Willie Hopkins, Tom Jones, David Morgan, Dan Hughes, Willie Ed- wards, Johnny and Willie King, John Evans, and Evan Evans. Brewing tea, Miss Sarah A. John, Phoebe A. John, and Mrs. Hughes. Bread and butter. Misses Edith Thomas, Mary Evans, Nellie Richards, Lizzie M. Davies, Katie Jones. Cake: Misses Mary Evans (Cemeterv- road), Martha A. Morgans, and Maggie L. Davies. Milk and sugar, Mrs. Davies. Ticket collectors, Misses L. H. Jenkins, S. King, and E. M. Thomas. General as- sistants, Misses Maud Thomas, Mary Evans, M. A. Jenkins, Edith King, Lizzie A. Jenkins, and Martha Evans. Secre- tary, Miss Sarah A. Thomas; treasurer, Miss May Jones; general supt., Rev. D. Hopkins. After the cloth had been removed, a concert was held, presided over by the pastor. The Meibion Cynon Glee Society, under the leadeship of Mr T. J. Stephen's, A.C., Trecynon, gave several selections, which were well applauded. Songs were rendered by Misses Edith Thomas, Edith M. Thomas, Maud Thomas, Sarah Evans, and Miss Rees.

ENGLISH WESLEYAN CHAPEL. A coffee supper was held here, the fol- lowing ladies being the trayholders: — Miss Pritchard, Rose-terrace, and Miss Evans, Broniestyn-terrace; Miss Davies, Margaret-street, and Miss Evans, Bron- iestyn-terrace; Mrs. Kevill, Station- place, and Miss M. A. Williams, Iestvn- street; Miss Stephens and Miss Edith Daniel, Alma-street. Cutters up: Miss Arnold and Mrs. Hewett. Boiling water, Mr. Edmund Ruff; carvers, Mr. John Davies and Mr. Thomas John. Superin- tendent, Mr. John Thomas; secretary, Mr. Isaac Edwards. At the concert which followed songs were given by Mr. John Arnold and Mr. Millie Norwood; dialogue, Mr. Frank Pritchard and party; gramophone selec- tions by the secretary; song, Miss Wil- liams. Miss Arnold acted as accompanist throughout the evening.

ST. DAVID'S, ABERDARE. The annual social and watch-night ser- vice in connection with St. David's Pres- byterian Church Young People's Guild was held on Thursday night. A goodly company sat down to partake of the good things provided, and their wants were attended to in an excellent manner by Mrs. MacBean and Miss M. S. Cameron (Clifton-street), assisted by Misses Mac- donald and A. Davies. Additional inter- est was centred in the entertaning part cf the programme, for were not the mar- ried and single members of the Guild to wage a deadly war for supremacy over a ping-pong table? The courage of the married players must have deserted them at the crucial moment, for the majority of the contestants were conspicuous by their absence. However, two teams cap- tained respectively by Messrs. A. S. Cameron and J. S. Mackintosh decided issues, when Mr. Cameron's team won by four events to one. At 11 p.m. the Rev. J. Robertson, M.A., commenced the Watch Night Service, which was carried on until 1909 was ushered in.

BETHANIA, ABERDARE. Bethania M.I.S. provided a competitive meeting for New Year's Eve. Mr. E. Ogwen Williams, F.R.G.S., presided, and the adjudicators were:—Music, Mr Dan- iel Griffiths; literature and reciting, Mr J. Mills (Tarianydd) and Ab Hevin; art, Mr. Gwilym Davies; needlework, Mrs. Davies, Bodhyfryd, and Miss Annie Davies. Messrs. Tom Evans and Samuel Davies acted as secretaries. Awards. Open solo (males), Mr. Tom Evans. Open solo (females), Misses Edith Evans and Annie Thomas equal. Solo for girls between 12 and 16, Can y Gwcw," Olivia Edmunds. Solo for boys, "Can Robin Goch," E. T. Hughes. Solo for girls under 12, Edith Olwen Evans and Maggie Jenkins. Solo for boys under 12, Wm. Ellis Young. Character Sketch of any person con- nected with Bethania: Best, Mr Joseph H. Evans, who portrayed the late Mr. Daniel Griffiths. Poem, Old Age Pension," Messrs. George R. Thomas, B.Sc., and Jack S. Thomas equal. Maes Llafur examination (under 12): (1) Ethel Powell; (2) Maggie J enkins. Ditto, children between 12 and 16, Jane Young. Consolation prize, Mary Hannah Morgan. Recitation (adults), Mr. George R. Thomas. Mr J. Mills gave prizes to Miss Edith Evans and Mr. John Price who had recited in Welsh. Recitation (under 12), David Thomas. Pencil drawing, Willie Jenkins. Wood carving, Miss Peggy Davies. Darning, Miss Edith Evans. Button Hole, Mrs. Wm. Evans and Miss Edith Evans. Pair of Socks, Miss Elizabeth Davies. D'oyley, Miss Elizabeth Davies. Prize bag, Mrs. W. Evans and Mise Edith Evans. On the proposition of Ogwen, seconded by Mr. J. W. Young, supported by the two secretaries, a v6te of thanks was passed to the adjudicators. Ogwen's con- gratulation to Mr. Daniel Griffiths on his marriage took the form of an -englyn thus: Denwyd o'r diwedd Daniel—Gruffydd Gan un graff a thawel; Er o dref ar ei drafel, Ni wnaeth ffoi rhag geneth ffel. Appended is one of the successful poems: — Old Age Pension. Hurrah for the Old Age Pension, Though it's only five bob a week, It will 'elp my daughter Annie, And will cheer the 'omestead bleak She's been good to her pore old daddie, t Though she aint got much to spare With her 'alf a dozen kiddies, But now I'll give her my share. r Tho' I'm only a pore old lab'rer, I've deserved of my country well, The Parliament toffs they pensioned. But they passed by chaps like mysel'; The medal-breasted warrior And the statesman they thought of too, But now they begin to remember The man with the tattered shoe. I've a 'orror of the workus, But the Lib'ral chaps will save The frail and weary old workman { From the dread of a pauper's grave; So here's to good old Asquith, And to all the 'goviment,' Though I cannot live now much longer I'm willin' to die content. "SHON GORPH," viz., Mr. G. R. Thomas.

PRINCE OF WALES, ABERDARE. On New Year's Eve an excellent dinner 1 was given at the Prince of Wales Hotel in connection with the Workmen's Clothing Club, when close on a hundred j members and friends partook of the good fare provided by Host and Hostess Wil- son. The room was nicely decorated with seasonable emblems. A grand musical 3 programme was presided over by Mr. W. Morgan, Aberaman, supported by Coun- J cillor D. Jackson Thomas, Messrs. D. ( Williams, Carpenters' Arms; J. A. Evans, hatter; S. Miles, W. R. Morris (of Mr. Emlyn Morris's), R. Davies, and ethers. After the chairman had sub- mitted the loyal toasts, a splendid render- i ing of "The Veteran was given by Mr. J. Rees. Mr. Ted Welsh followed with a. s comic song, entitled, I wish I had a ] pair of ducks," which was followed by John Bull" by Mr. Dan Thomas. Next c came The stone outside Dan Murphy's 3 door," by Mr. D. Richards, after which Mr. J. Morgan sang A lassie from Lancashire." Song, When London lights are burning low," by Mr. W. Powell; song, "I will," by Mr. S. Miles (encored); song, "The Old Log Cabin," by Councillor D. Jackson Thomas. Mr. W. Williams gave a masterful rendering of The Old Green Isle" and was en- cored. Song, "Not Guilty," Mr S. Miles. f, Scng, "You won't see your mother any more," by Mr. W. R. Morris. Song by Mr. Gomer Stephens. Addresses were given by some of the guests. The secretarial duties were admirably dis- charged by Mr. Joe Rees. Mr. Richard Everett accompanied with his usual 6 ability. Votes of thanks were accorded to the chairman and the host and hostess, j to which they responded. After the sing- ing of ths National Anthems, the solos being taken by Messrs. W. Williams and J. Rees, the guests freely exchanged New Year's greetings.

— ] CINDERELLA DANCE AT ABERDARE 1 t On New Year's Eve a highly successful I Cinderella Dance was held at the Memor- 1 ial Hall in connection with the Aberdare c Church Dancing Class. The room was i gaily decorated, and presented a very E pretty appearance. The merry company A danced the Old Year out and the New 1 Year in to the enchanting strains of Mr. t D. Tom Lewis' Quadrille Band. The pro- t gramme of music and dances included: i "The Merry Widow," "The Geisha," 1 The Dairymaids," Havaniiah," The i Girls of Gottenberg" "Peter Pan," i a Butterflies," etc., and was immensely appreciated. The M.C.'s were Messrs. r Tom Hayter and George Lewis. The re- ) freshment tables were burdened with ap- petising viands, which were supplied by Messrs. R. H. Miles and Sons, who catered to the satisfaction of all. The tables were prettily illuminated with fairy-lights. Appended is a list of the guests: —Miss Humphreys, Whitchurch; Miss Nott, Miss M. Protheroe, Miss Ida Stewart, Miss May Pritchard, Miss E. Davies, Miss Kate Pontin, Miss Minnie Lloyd, Miss Protheroe, Miss Organ, Miss Williams, the Misses Ethel and Flossie Upton, Miss Lilian Dyer, Miss Florence Rosser, Miss B. Warren, Miss Lake, Miss L. Irving, Miss Mabel Pennell, Miss Hetty Cale, Miss Richards, Miss Gerrish, Miss C. Evans, Miss Florrie Jones, Miss Muriel Morgan, Miss Nellie Jones, Miss Gerty Rigby, Miss Florence Dyer, Miss Lewis, Miss Annie Mandry, Miss E. M. Thomas, Miss Carrie Rigby. Miss Wini- fred Prtchard, Miss Winifred Farley. Miss C. Watkins, Miss Rowlands, Mt. and Mi's. Hugh Law, Messrs. Percy Bowen, Ben Jones, Frank Carney, H. Lewis, Jack Lewis. D. J. Thomas, W. Burchell, Geo. Thomas, T. J. Williams, R. Hopkins, George Usher, D. R. Jones, Fred Wilkins, Tom Williams, Ivor Court, G. D. Griffiths, G. Jones, H. Harper, J), Jenkins, Ivor Lewis, Jack Allen, Frank Jones, Jack Pritchard, J. S. Mugford (Hirwain), T. Hayter, Griff Williams, W. Watkins, David E. Davies, Arthur Prince, Ben Lewis, George Lewis, Bert Hill, and Mr. Williams. A feature of the dance was the Britannia Waltz, which was executed by all the company present clasping hands and singing For Auld Lang Synne," on the stroke of midnight. Then the parties waltzed to the melody of The Miner's Dream of Home." At an interval the ladies were accorded the privilege of selecting partners as the final Leap Year opportunity. The result was <:hat there were but a few gentlemen "Wallnowers" left. Others in- dulged in games of whist, and the com- pany thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The secretarial arrangements were admirably discharged by Mr. Willie Watkins.

CARMEL, ABERDARE. The annual soiree in connection with Carmel English Baptist Chapel took place on New Year's Eve. Over 200 put in attendance, and it was the most suc- cessful yet held. The ladies serving at the tables were —Miss Escott, Miss L. A. Jones, Miss Annie Price, Miss Webb, Miss M. A. Evans, Mrs. Hurt, Miss Lily Jones,, Miss Maud Jones, Miss M. Williams, Miss Rachel Jones, Miss Rosie Willams, Miss S. Webb. The carving was entrusted to Messrs. W. Price, W. J. John, Fred Phelps, and Mr. Rees. The following ladies assisted:— Mrs. T. Jones, Mrs. James Roach, Mrs. W. Price, Mrs. Roach, Mrs. Escott, Mrs. John Davies, Mrs. John. Doorkeepers, Messrs. J. Couldrey and Harry Jones. This was followed by a competitive concert. The adjudicators were: Music, Mr. Tom Jones, L.R.A.M.; recitations, etc., Mr. Wm. Eynon and Mr. W. J. John; prize bags, Mrs. Edwards. Accompanist, Mr. Tom Male.. L.L.C.M. Chairman, Mr. W. Price. Conductor, Mr. John Davies. Secretary, Mr. W. H. Davies; treasurer, Mr. H. Bryant. Prize Winners:—Prize bag, 1st, Miss Maud Jones, Aberaman. Love Letter (11 entries), Mr. Willie Davies. Tanybryn-street. Male solo, Mr Maldwyn Jones, Cwmaman. Female solo, Miss Bessie Williams, Cardiff-street. Boys'^ solo, Haydn Jones, Monk-stre&t. Girls' solo, divided between Irene Jones and M. Davies. Open recitation, divided between Miss Florrie Newcombe and Miss Mary Price. Children's recitation: 1st, Irene Jones; 2nd, Rufus Enoch. Solos were also sung by Mr. Ja,mes Roach, Mr M. J. Morgan (Cwmaman), and Mr. Saunders. At the watch-night service which followed, Mr. H. Bryant presided.