The Pontypridd Chronicle and Workman's News

CHILDREN'S CONCERT AT PEfiiGKAIG. j SUCCESSFUL PROCEEDINGS. ) For a long time the trade at Penygraig has been very dull, and the inhabitants were thereby troubled over the adversity which had disap- pointed their anticipations. This continued to mar their expectations until last year, but since, we are glad to state, the gloomy aspect which created so much unpleasantness is a thing of the past, and a bright one has superceded. The agreeable change has stirred the inhabitants, and they are active and lively now in encouraging good movements. The residents of Penygraig are noted for their united efforts. When very young I heard of Penygraig as the metropolis of Wales, for its industry in coal mines, Ac. I am informed on authority that a like fame is again in store for this locality ere long. The neighbour- hood of Penygraig is composed of over 3,000 in- habitants, and I find about GOO scholars re- gistered at the school thereat. Last year the school building was transferred to the Ystrady- fodwg School Board, and since then this authority has the entire control over the educational matters which concern all localities alike. The Board have engaged Miss Bessie Watkins as head- mistress of the girls' school Miss Davies is the liead-mistress of the infants' school, and Mr J. W. Jones, the head-master. The head teachers felt the children possessed rare musical abilities, and in consequence the idea suggested itself to minds that the talents displayed by the scholars could easily afford a good treat to the lovers of music, and all interested in the welfare of school children. Seldom, if ever, indeed, we find people loath to extend their support when asked for on behalf of school children. To enter upon our subject, we think that February the obh, 7th, and 8th will be long remembered in the neighbourhood of Penygraig, for never before the residents ex- perienced such a treat of music, Ac. On Wednes- day, February fith, the concert was presided over by Dr. Evan Naunton Davies, of Penygraig. The large building (Penygraig School) was crowded to excess. The audience were so much delighted over the treat that many could not abstain from attending the performance of the following even- ing. The Cheerful report had currency, and it was anticipated that the second performance would be witnessed by some hundreds. We should state that Dr. Davies made some excellent remarks on the occasion, and this gave great encouragement to the promoters. I had the pleasure of being present at Thursday's concert, and I shall confine my remarks to what I heard and saw there to my pleasure. I entered the spacious building ai>7.30 p.m. I was very much struck at seeing all seats available occupied, many scores failing to obtain seats. I wended my way after some diffi- culty through the eager crowd till I reached a spot near the stage, and through the kindness of a person I was accommodated with a seat, and this afforded me an opportunity to watch the pro- ceedings with care. In the first place I wish to mention that the room was well-lighted with gas, "nel all who had secured the programmes had no difficulty in following the diffiereut items without encumbrance. The reserved seats were occupied by the elite of the district,and I was very much pleased to see so many ladies present. Next, I shall say a word about the stage. It was adorned 'with flowering plants of varied kinds, and all were supplied through the kindness of Miss Davies. The stage was occupied by 24 infants of both sexes, varying in ages from 3 to 7, 80 girls and 50 boys, ranging in ages from 8 to 14 total 154. Those on the top part of the platform were' not comfortably situated, owing to the want of more room. They were almost touching the ceil- ing. This unfortunately was inevitable, owing to the lofty position of the platform. All the per- formers carried fans, which were of variegated hues. The fair sex were attired in cream, pink, and blue sashes, of pink, scotch plaid, blue and cardinal. Even the ladies present were delighted witu the taste displayed by their sex. They were seated in rows, and when the fans were put in motion the scene was brilliant and attractive. The li lit dazzled on the platform, and this showed to great advantage on the various colours ex- 'e hibited. I heard it remarked they look like angels, and it is quite a treat to see them, say nothing of their singing." The reader may im- agine that we were absorbed with gratification. I proceed now with the programme. The Chair- man(Mr W. Pritchard, Clydacli Vale), made a few suitable remarks, and the first item on the pro- gramme, viz., "Foot Traveller" was prettily suny by all the scholars. It opens thus- On foot I gaily take my way, hurrah O'er mountains bare and meadows gay, hurrah, And ho who is not of my mind, Another travelling mate may find, He cannot go with ine, Hurrah tra, la, h. la, la, &c. A solo and chorus followed. Miss E. J. Jones represented Mother Gun." Appended is the first verse. I'm old mother Gun that keeps a school, My scholars all say that I am an old fool Bat they may all laugh aud chaff at my fate, I'm old mother Gnn from Caroline school. Choras. Then shoot hurrah for old mother Gun, &o. This was well disposed of. Miss Watkins taught the party. "Home once more by Masters Protheroe, Rowland and Salter. The children joined in the chorus. The latter was touching it runs thus- Home once more, home once more Shalt I ever see my home once more ? Ob, those pleasant hours of play, In my happy childhood's day, Shaii I ever see my home once more ? "Lawyer Brown," a duet by Miss Johnstone and Master Hoyle, son of P.S. Hoyle, Tonypandy. The rendering of this duet was excellent by both children. The articulation and the balance in voices were indeed everything that could be des- ired. This party was also trained by Miss Wat- kins. Then followed" All's Well "by the children. The boys were not so successful as the girls in their attempt. They were rather harsh on the slur, which embraces, the wqrd "All" which sets off the piece. NeUey^ Jpplly," by 12 little girls, varying in age from 2 to 5, was a nice change. They were_beautifully4rf8^d; and each carried a doll to their Jiearta' deli^h^The. audience were moved when they .were marshalled to take their places in the front of the stage. The accompanists struck the key, and the pretty little ones began with their happy task of singing — Come Dolly, go to sleep now, You nanghty little thing, Thia busy day I cannot play, So go to t-leep and do not keep Me here to rock and sing. Chorus.— Oh Nelly's doll is such a tronbla Hash, hush, hash They were trained by Miss Davies. The solo I won't go to School" by Master Abel Jones was very good. In my opinion, however, he would represent the truant better had he dressed himself in a garb usually worn by mitchers." Twelve girls sang next "Merry Little Maids." The piece opens pleasantly. We are merry little maids from the Penygraig school, And we sing a pretty song as we gaily trip al»ny, Merry little maich from school, This item was much appreciated, and Miss Wat- kins deserves a word of praise for teaching them so well. The, children contributed next The fisher boy." and the words commence thus- Poor little fisher boy Orit on the sea The moon gives no light, And dark is the night, Sailing is he Poor little fisher boy Ont on the sea. The Bel goes ringing for Sarah," was excellent ly sung b' Miss Gwendoline Foster. An encore was here again demanded. The words were composed (the chorus not included) by Miss Watkins,and as a tribute of respect for her poeti- cal talent I am sure her sex will in particular enjoy reading the production from her pen. SPOKEN—JVhy there's thftt old achoetbell again, tor- If you please you see I am a scholar, Or what some would call a school gal, My teachers they call me Sarah, But school-girls for short call me Sal I'm learning from morning till midnight At those old books which bother me so I wish the old authors were somewhere, I would'nt care if it where at Jericho. SPOKEN.—If I only stopped to think for a moment, Chorus- The bell goes a ringing for Sarah, Sarah, The bell goes a ringing for Sarah from morning until night. I pray you don't think I am a dunce Because that I never could be, Indeed I am quite a blue stocking, As that you can very plainly see; I am learned in ics and isms, And in all of the ologies too, And, oh, for re-solving old problems I can do them as good as a few SPOKEN—Bat if I only try to copy then why Chorus—The bell, &c. But my schooldays soon now will be over, My farewell to teachers I'll say, Old books I will soon close yon forever, And you on the shelf dusty shall lay; So goodbye, goodbye to you, school bells, Your ding dong I will no more heed, And may all our dear little schools Thy ding dinging warning ne'er need. SPOKEN—But as for me as long as I live I shall al- ways start with fright it I hear a bell, and think that- Chorus-The bel7, &c. The singing of Johnny Smoker was much enjoyed. So that the reader may have an idea of this peculiar piece of poetry, I submit it here. Johnny Smoker, I ch kaan skiel^n Ich kann spiel mein kleine Duimmel, Rub, a dub, a dub, das iq tneiu l>:duimel, Pillp, willy, wink, das ist mein Filie. Tic, knock, knock, las ist Friangle, Bom, bom, bom, las ist mine Trambone. Klang, klang, klang, las ist mine Cymbal. Zoo, zoo, zoo, das ist mino Viol. Whack, whack, whack, das ist mein Toodie- sach. The children made a favourable impression here, for their united actions proved beyond all doubt that they were receiving sound tuition. An en- core was demanded. I hope the audience knew the meaning of the words as well as the move- ments and musical strains of the children. I am rather inclined to believe they afford a puzzle for many. An interesting item was next given, viz., the Soldiers Chorus, by 12 little boys belonging to the infants' department, and varying in age from 5 to 7 years of age. They were attired in warrior's uniform, and carried drums, muskets, swords, trumpets, and flags, and went under a drill in a praiseworthy manner. They were under the command of one of their little comrades. The Captain uttered two or three times "shin up," and this evoked roars of laughter. The musical strains added much to their movements. An encore was redemanded, another re-appeared, and displayed the same skill as in the first per- formance. Miss Davies must have been very diligent and thoughtful in getting the little ones to carry out their task with such taste. "Fat boys chorus" followed, and the appearance of of the stout scholars evoked a peal after peal of laughter of the heartiest description. One boy in particular named Rees was exceedingly suc- cessful in his efforts. One fell, and being of such dimension he failed to gain a footing without .the 9 11 assistance of some of his stout and bulky com- rades. This piece was a good upshot for the first part of the programme. The second part opened by the chairman, who is the manager of the Clydacli Vale Collieries, and member of the Ystradyfodwg School Board, giving a very inter- esting speech. Mr Pritchard's remarks were warmly applauded at intervals. Then fol- lowed Hark the impatient steeds by the [choir. Mr D. R. Jones saag the Muddle, puddle por- ter with marked success. The Granny's School was very attractive. "Granny" opened the piece "What's the first letter of the alphapet" with precision. The scholars answerded firmly Don't know Granny." Really this item afford- ed much delight. Miss Johnstone, who repre- sented Granny," did her allotted part in an excellent manner, and we may add also the scholars. Dust When we were young was next given by Masters Evans and Hoyle in a pleasant style. They were attired in a soldier's garb. The rendering of "The Fire Brigade was good. The duet Laugh and grow fat" by Misses Johnstone and Foster was very much appreciated. Masters Hoyle and Jones sang next Bay of Biscay in a good style. They were in sailor's suits. Master Jones is the son of Mr J. W. Jones, head-master. Miss E. J. Jones con- tributed I must go out on Sunday." Miss Jones possesses a nice voice, but unfortunately she for got some portions of the words. However, she represented the servant girl very well. Can y Glywyr (the colliers song) was the last item on the programme. The boys, to the number of twelve, carried the utensils for the use of the workmen such as the Clanny lamp, &c., Ac. They also appeared as if newly quitting the mines. The workmen were well represented here. Mr Tom John, Llwynpia Schools, was asked to address the audience. Mr John said it afforded him great pleasure to b) present. Many years ago he occupied the posi- tion of schoolmaster at Penygraig, and he was glad to say lie looked back to that time with pleasure. Mr John said that he knew Mr J. W. Jones, the head-teacher of Penygraig school, from his boy-liood. He excelled them as a musician, but of late he did not hear so much of Mr Jones in that capacity, but was glad to find that he was again coming out as a musical leader, and that his efforts on this occasion must convince every one that he possessed rare musical qualities. Mr John impressed upon the parents to send their children regularly to school, for they could see that evening what influence education had upon children. Mr John, in conclusion, proposed a vote of thanks to Mr Pritchard for presiding. Mr W. G. Howell seconded. The Chairman, in returning thanks, offered a vote of thanks to the parents of the children for showing so much taste and readiness. This was heastily taken up, for every one must be astonished at wittnessing such a variety of dresses Ac., on the occasion. In con- clusion, I respectfully offer some general remarks. I only no tic 3d twoo t'lreeinstanceswherecliildren sang slightly out of tune. The words were pro- nounced correctly and the time received care- ful observation throughout. The girls deserve special mentiJ "1 for their beautiful voices, in par- ticular Misses Johnstone and Gwendoline Foster. I heard it remarked by many that they never expected such a treat at Penygraig. I will really join them in this conclusion. It must be admitted that a teacher of Mr J. W. Jones' experience and knowledge has an advantage over those with less knowledge and experience. On the other hand we must acknowledge that many if possessed of the same abilities as Mr Jones would never think of taking the troubleof putting their abilities to practice. The concert was under the conductor- ship of Mr Jones throughout, and we must say it was an arduous task, yet skilfully carried out. Misses Davies and Llewellyn, with Miss Watkins rendered valuable aid in bringing the proceedings to a successful issue. The proceeds were in aid of establishing a school library, Ac., at the Penygraig school. The programme was gone through for the third time on Saturday evening befo'e a large audience, and was excellently rendered as hereto- fore. Alderman J. Jones Griiffths filled the chair, and delivered an excellent speech. Mr Jchn Llewellyn, Penygraig, was a. capital accompanist throughout.

LLANWONNO SCHOOL BvARD ELECTION. SUPPLEMENTARY PEN AND INK SKETCH. [By DELMOS.] REV. MORGAN HUMPHREY JONES.—The name anct ) fame of this candidate is not cosmopolitan. He hails from Aberllechau. Combines the minister and the grocer in his own person, which appears by no means inappiopriate, as both spiritual and and material haunts are common needs of the human race. Aims at the secular and moral pre- paration by his presence on the school board. In the last election failed to find a place. The original selection was Mr H. Smith. The first choice possessed a previous reputation, but the Rev. H. M. Jones will have to win his spurs in the edu- cational arena. He wears the Baptist uniform. REV. MOSES LEWIS.—Holds the honourable po- sition of vicar of Llanwonno parish. All the elec- tors are his parishioners. Socially and spiritually the vicar is in common "parlance" a "nice man. Invariably all vicars should be nice when en- vironed with Nonconformity. We are afraid the appreciative point of a successful poll will not be reached. The success of his National school will nevertheless remain a sphere of usefulness for his educational ardour. MR D. THOMAS, CHECKWEIGHER.—Last week I wrote upon imperfect information of Mr Thomas. I am glad that closer investigation has turned out favourable to his claims as a school board candidate. This is the new love of the Great i Western workmen. They jhave, lover-like, (fickle and changeable), given over Mr White Phillips and accepted Mr Thomas. "Asgwrn o'n asgwrii ni" is the shibboleth and the chain of the workmen's adoption, and it will be irresistible. Let Mr Phillips prepare a monument to the "Hereafter" and get "Ichabou" engraved. It will be appro- priate. Let Mr D. Thomas study the best way to elevate his fellow-workmen. He will tind it in the direction of supporting measures that tend to im- prove the educational facilities and dwell well upon the principle that a working man's best in- vestment is in providing a liberal and wide educa- tion for his offspring. Doubtless when elected he will give clear evidence of his unfaltering fidelity to their best interests. Let him remember that education has been compared to a ladder with the elementary school at the bottom to the university at the top. Let him study the faculties that will make the climbing possible for the working man's child. MR JAMES CooMBHS.—Lucky at "Shake in the hat." Physically short and stout, with no pastry inflation in his constitution. A man of genuine merit socially, and should turn out a good and consistent future member. Keenly interested in the Free Library and other public movements of tone-elevating kind. Let Pontypridd for once be true to itself and assert its existence on the school board by returning Mr Coombes—and Mrs Spence.

I STEALING A HALF-SOVEREIGN All PANDY. At Pontypridd Police Court on Wednesday (before the Stipendiaiy) Tom Crandon was charged with stealing half a sovereign. Henry Hurditch, collier, Ton, said about 10 the previous night he was in the Cross Keys public-house, Pandy. He had been there several hours, and had been drinking with defendant. About ten o'clock he dozed off, and was awoke by feeling a hand in his waistcoat pocket. The man was defendant. There was half a sovereign in the pocket. Defendant went into tue tap-room, and on feeling he missed the half sovereign. He spoke to Mrs Dobson, the landlady, about it. She brought defendant to the bar. Charged him with stealing. He said, "You can search me." The landlady told defendant he had the half sovereign, and defendant then said that he (pro- secutor) had given it to him. Alfred Middle said defendant came into the tap- room, and placing half a sovereign in his hand said, Pay for our drinks." Mrs Dobson then came in and took defendant awav. He then heard of the loss of the money, and at once went and gave it to lUre Dobson. Robert Amos Dobson, landlord, sn.id he told pro- secutor to send for the police. Defendant then said, "I took it to keep for him." Had lent him a shilling an hour hefor?. as he said he had no money. P-5. llcyle sn.id he arrested defendant, who, upoa being charged, said I took it to keep for him." At the station he said to prosecutor," Now, Harry, you, know you gave it to me." Fined 203 or one month.

FOOTBALL. PONTYPRIDD SECOND FIFTEEN V. PONTYPRIDD JUNIORS. This was the principal fixture at Pontypridd on Saturday last, and came off on the Trallwn Grounds in the afternoon. The weather was fine, and the event was witnessed by a considerable number of persons. Play was brisk throughout, and the result proved a singular exemplification of the old adage that "Fortune favours the brave." It might have seemed a piece of presumption on the part of the Juniors to challenge the second fifteen of the town club, but the ends certainly jastifiad the means, and they have now, we believe, mustered courage to even place their fair fame at the feet of no less a team than the first fifteen themselves. The "little uns" are determined to challenge their big brrthers, and the match will doubtless be looked forward to with throbbing3 of emotional interest. D. McLaggan, G. Hughes, and A. Rowland (the "skipper"), played splendidly for the- Juniors, and R. Richards aod J. Davies did like ser- vice for the opposing team. Points were obtained by ( A. Horwood (two goals, one dropped), and G. Morgan (try), for the Juniors; and R. Richards (goal and try, and T. Lloyd (try), for the seconds. The result was two goals and a try for the Juniors, against a goal and a try. The following were the teams -.— Juniors -Baék, A. Horwnod three-quarterbacks, A Rowland (captain), W. Wilkina, L. Jenkins, and G. Morgans half-backs, G. Hughes and G. Williams: Forwards, M. Gale, D. McLaggan, W. Hunt, D. Hunt, G. James, E. Hopkins. and W. Smith.—,Second Fifteev— Back, c T, Rogers: three-quarter backs, R. Kichards, T. E.. Lewis, J. Hewens, and D. Jones; half-backs, J. T- Davies and J. Gamblin; forwards, W. Mitchell, T. Lloyd, E. Llewellyn, T. Llewellyn, A. Noithcote, L., Herbert, J. Morris, and D. Davies. ( PENYGRAIG V. PENARTH. HPlayed on Saturday afternoon, at Penarth, and re- sulted in a win for the latter by a goal, a try, and st minor to four minors. PONTYPRIDD JUNIORS (THURSDAYS) V. PONTYPRIDD LILLYWHITES. This match came off between nine of the Janiors" Club and 15 of the "Lilies" on Thursday last, on the- Mill Field, Pontypridd, with a result in favour of the Juniors by a goal and two tries to a try. MARITIME (PONTYPRIDD) V. MARDY. Played on the Mill Field, Pontypridd, on Saturday" afternoon, and resulted in Mardy proving victorious by a goal to a try. The foregoing was in type last week, but crowded out. TREFOREST UNITED V. CROWN LILYWHITES. This matcu was played at Merthyron Saturday, and resulted in a win for the former by 2 goals 1 try to 2 tries. The following composed the Treforest team :—Back G. Evans; threequartersv A. J. Morgan (capt.), T. Norley, S. Davies, and D. G. Davies; half-backs, D. M. Gregor and E. Roberts; forwards, T. Brown, W. Hill, J. G. Morgan, W. Lewis, A. J. Morgan, F. Fipps, J. G. Roberts and W. H. Lodd. PONTYPRIDD JUNIORS, V. ST. JAMES'S (CARDIFF.) Played on Saturday afternoon, on the Trallwn Field, Pontypridd, and the result was a victory for the Juniors by three tries and a minor to a goal (from a penalty kick), a try, and seven minors. The folio \wng was the Junior team;—Full Back, N. Fletcher; three-quarter backs, A. Rowland (captain), G. Hughes, W. Wilkins,and J. Gamblin; half-backs, J. Williams and T. E. T-^wis; for- wards, D. McLaggan; G. James, A. Llewellyn, M. Gale, W. Menhinnick, W. Hague, W^, Hunt, L. Jenkins, and' D. Hunt; Umpire, „ Morgan; referee, J. Williams.

THE COUNTY COUNCIL VACANCY AT MOUNTAIN ASH. DR R. W. JONES' CANDIDATURE. ENTHUSIASTIC MEETING OF ELECTORS. THE CANDIDATE A THOROUGH LIBERAL. A numerously-attended meeting of ratepayers was held at the Workmen's Hall, Mountain Ash, on Monday evening, in support of the candidature of Dr Richard William Jones, of Mountain Ash and Penrhiwceiber, the Liberal candidate selected to till the vacancy in the Mountain Ash, Penrhiw- ceiber, Cefnpennar, Ynysybwl, Robert Town, and Navigation Ward, caused by the elevation of Mr Gwilym Jones, Pwllhelig, to the position of alder- man. The chair was ably filled by Mr W. Bevan, who delivered a stirring address in support of the claims of Dr. Jones, and was well received. Dr. Jones, whose rising was the signal for a flattering outburst of applause, in the course of a capital address said lie thanked them for the cor- dial manner in which he had bsen received, and also for the unanimity with which he had been in- vited to contest the seat. The vacancy, as they were aware, was consequent upon the elevation of Mr Gwilym Jones to an aldermanic seat. Although not a great speaker, he would do all in his power, if elected, to uphold the dignity of the position, and to represent the electors faithfully and effi- ciently. (Cheers.) Under these considerations he had made up his mind to enter the contest, and he left the issue in their hands. He had to thank them also for past kindness, and trusted that his services in the future would merit their unquali- i tied approval as they had done in the past. (Hear, hear.) He wished the meeting to follow him in the expression of his views on the question of county government. He was of opinion that taxation and administration should go to- gether. This was not the case in the past, because the duties of county government were in the hands of magistracy, composed as they were of county landlords and aristocracy, and selected in most cases by Conservatives. To this class thousands of pounds of the hard-earned money of the poor working classes of the country were entrusted, and in the work of administration they were not in any wav responsible to the ratepayers. By means of the new County Government Act, however, they had been enabled to put the thin end of the wedge into the opening of people's government by the people, and they would not be satisfied until the aristocratic influence would be shattered to atoms. (Hear, hear, and applause.) Passing on to poli- z, tics, Mr Jones said he was a thorough Liberal. (Cheers.) It had been said that their system of county government ought to be devoid of politics, but he was of a totally different opinion. The elections should be conducted on strictly pc iitical lines. Members of the county council were elected by the people, to represent the views and interests of the people, and unless the views of the council were in harmony with those of the electorate, how could thev, for instance, give true expression to the feeling of the country in favour of religious equality and the disestablishment of the Church in Wales? (Hear, hear.) If they had Conservative represen- (Hear, hear.) If they had Conservative represen- tatives, they would,of course, send a memorial to Parliament to the effect that they did not want to have anything to do with such questions as re- ligious equality and disestablishment, but that would not be the feelings of the masses. (Cries of "No.") Then, he said, gentlemen should h3 elected to the council who were in complete sym pathy with the people. He was glad that the ap- pointment of coroners had been handed over to the county council. In his opinion it was of the ut- most importance that gentlemen of fairness and ability should be elected to this office, especially in the interests and protection of the working classes. He had repeatedly asked himself the question how it was that the same principle of county government had not been extended to Ire- land—the country, alas which was governed by despotic rule. A memorial emanating from the county council in favour of home rule for Ireland might induce the government to coincide with the wishes of the country in this respect; and for this reason he again said that the county council ought to represent the political tone of the country. He was strongly in favour of home rule for their be- nighted sister country; also for a general system of free education, and it was a great shame that out of the small earnings of the working man he had to pay for the compulsory attendance of his children at school. He hoped the day was not far distant when the church tithes would be applied towards free education, and this anomaly would be done away with. (Cheers.) To the same end might very feasibly be devoted the money derived from common lands, which were were undoubtedly the lands of the people. (Hear, hear.) He was strongly in favour of local option and the taxation of royalties. The county assylum was an institu- tion which demanded the serious attention of every member of the council, and he considered that a medical man was peculiarly qualified to act in this and other capacities in connection with the county business. (Hear, hear.) He was going to contest the seat as a gentleman, and did not in- tend saying a single word against his opponent, and if the latter came to Mountain Ash to address them, he hoped they would give him a fair and courteous hearing. (Applause.) He (Dr. Jones) was young, and consequently full of possibilities, but ho ventured to ask them to reflect upon his pa-st conduct as an indication of his good intentions in the future. He hoped they would return him wioh a large majority. (Loud applause.) Mr J. R. Smith proposed a hearty uote of confi- dence in the candidate, whtch was seconded by ¡ Mr David Davies, and carried in a flattering manner. Addresses of an influential character were fur- ther delivered by Alderman Gwilvm Jones, Messrs .W. L. Herbert, J. Worthington, D. Harries, Rev. P. Thomas (Congregational minister), and the Rev. M. D. Jones, M.A.

ANNUAL ASSOCIATION OF THE STUDENTS OF PONTYPRIDD ACADEMY. The above Association was held this year at Bethania Chapel, Cwmbacli, on Sunday and Monday, January 27th and 28th. The services were conducted as follow:—On Sunday morning, Mr D. C. Howells introduced the meeting, and Messrs D. J. Davies, Portli, and W. J. Lewis, Ithondda, preached. In the after- noon the service was introduced by Mr H. Edwards, Rhondda, and sermons were preached by Messrs A. D. Thomas, Cymmer, and J. Edwards, Gelli Ystrad. In the evening the service was introduced by Mr. W. J. Lewis, Rhondda, and sermons were preached by Messrs D. Jones, Rliymney, and D. C. Howells, Ponty- pridd, at Bethania, by Mr A. D. Thomas at Bryn Sion Hall, and by Mr J. Eciwards at Carinel Chapel. On Monday evening the service was introduced by Mr J. Edwards, and sermons were preached by Messrs G. B. Roberts, Cilfynydd, and H. Edwards, Rhondda. We understand that one of the students, Mr Hopkin Thomas, Noddfa, Treorkey, was pre vented by illness from taking part in the services. The young brethren met with a hearty reception, and the truths which they endeavoured to preach were listened to with marked attention' by the crowded congregations that assembled at all th6 meetings. Collections were made at each of the services in aid of the students, which amounted to a larger sum than was expected. The hymns were given out by the Rev. E. Dunmor Edwards, M.A., the Principal, to whom great praise is due for the faithfulness and ability with which he prepares young men for the great and important work of the ministry. We wish him and the students every success in the great work in which they are engaged. :'f Y%>v

SELLING OFF SELLING OFF!! G. Oliver's Great Annual Clearance Sale of Boots and Shoes will commence on Saturday, at 8.3, TAFF STKEET, PONTYPRIDD. «

Pontypridd Police Coart. WEDNESDAY.Before the Stipendiary and Dr. Jjnes. ASSAULT UNDEEOROCND AT HAFO<>.—Begamin Lloyd, haulier, Hafod Colliery, was charger with assaulting J. R. Williams, a fellow workman. It ap- peared that a dispute arose between the mell which led to a fight. Defendant knocked the coiwlainant down, and kickajl him on thegroand and stock him with a. lamp. Defendant also threatened toxill him. -Finpd 20s. DitUNK AT WATTSTOWN^J—Thomas Fern langford was changed witb beirj| drank on Sand*-—P-C Evan8 said at 2 p.m. on Satrday. the 3rd mac.he saw .defendant on the highway very drUM., c irsig and swearing. Had some difficulty in getting hinuiway. He bad leit h'« wife.—Fined ios. SLKKI'I.NO OUT AT PONTYPBIDD.—Samuel Vfctkina was charged with this offence. Several previaq eoii. victioas were proved,—Sent to prison for three months