The Glamorgan Gazette

New Theatre J Port Talbo-t. I ——— !'JI ——— MONDAY, JAN". 17th, audi During the Once Nightly, Saturday included. Doors open, 7; Commence 7.30. ENTIRE LONDON PRODUCTION. MR. F. MARRJOTT-WATSON wiH present the New Successful Society Pby- WhatHappaned JWtm iniaMt?& rI??n????P??sMfi 1\t Midnight Ey FLORENCE MASRIOTT-WATSON. The Caste Includes—Mrs. F. ?*'arr !cti-Watson H" B' l' n t' ¡;; 1 Cl.. ct' as "Anita the Snake C harmer, and; "Pyll'r Dg -1-ter. NEXT XiEEK :—Dernartl Shaw's Crest P'y, LNE T' PYGMALION." This is the Company j that appeared in Swansea and CnrihS. i _u_  OTICES of Fonhco?n? I \1 vens, ?p?rts o? M?et- ? ings,? Adv?rtisemt3t5, should be sent to our Local Representative, Mr, T. Russell Williams, Glamorgan Gazette" Offices, Station Rd, Part Talbat. THE ABOVE APPLIES TO AgR.4, VON AND PORT TALBOT DISTRICT ONLY.

ABERAVON & PORT TALBOT NOTES I I A few weeks ago the hoardings in A her- J avon and Port Talbot were covered with a reminder that old theatre-goers once found pleasure in witnessing the performances of Mr. Wilson Barret and now comes the news from America, that another of Shakespeare's distinguishe.d interpreters has passed inro the ?:ss Aia R?e h an wings for the last time. Miss Ada Rehan was oiixy 56, and although that may seem very old to the boys and girls of 20, whose chief delight is a picture show and Charlie j Chaplin, it is not, after all, a formidable pile of years for those who have the good sense to take care of themse l ves. We cannot s.ay— i;a¿e care or tnem.s< ves. H e canc. y- nor would we if we could—how long it is since Ellen Terry married her present husband, but we know tkat when the Registrar of Marri- ages asked her how old she was on that aus- picious occasion, she laughingly told him she was 59, but he was not to tell anybody. And he told all the world. Ill Madame Sarah Bernhardt must be nearer 80 than 70, and yet we never think of her as being old; so one may well regard Ada Rehan as one of those who had not out-lived her use fulness, in spite of the fact thai she retired from the stage nine or ten years ago. H It 1 In referring to her death, the dra; itic critic of the "Times" expressed the opinion that she sto-Jd alone as an interpreter of Shakespearean comedy, and that Shakespeare must have had Ada Rehan in mind when he conceived the part of "Catherine" in the "Taming of the Shrew." It is true. she did sat possess that peculiar quality, so charac- teristic of Ellen Terry, which is usually called "witchery," but she had a charm of her own, which cannot be forgotten by those who had the good fortune to see her. Like all modern Shakespearean "actors," she claimed the right to "edit" the great Elizabethan, and tore and there were introduced words and phrases which were calculated to enhance the excellence of her own qualities. Who can forget the magnificent swing of the body and the flashing eyes when Petrucio brought her to a halt after she had slapped his faee-by exclaiming. "Who said the lovely Kate walked with a limp?" The older genera- tion of playgoers will feel that another link in the chain of pleasant memories has snapped with the death of Ada Rehan. It 1 1 And apropos of Ada Rehan there is a good story which may be recalled regarding the great Chicago Exhibition of 1891-2. The promoters decided to have a perfect type .-if American beauty in the great hall; and the photographs of all the leading American actresses were examined; the "elite" of American society were invited to help in th choice; all the American cities—even t! 1 limberlosts—were searched for some perfp 't specimen of American womanhood, and finally Ada Rehan was chosen for the great pare. Reluctantlv she consented—with a twinkle in the eye, one would imagine—and when the II model of her "perfect form" was produced and "erected" in the great hall, some mis- I chievous busytodv, with a penchant for de- j tails, found out that the great "American beauty" was only an Irish girl who was born j in Limerick in 1860, and had never seen jgAroenca until she was two year's old. It I said at the time that of all pgfeple who I enjoyed the joke Ada Rehan langhedpthe most II hearty. Ill There is oons:deraole complaint regarding the wanton destruction of posters which have been put up on the hoardings, and we share ¡ the feeling of resentment over the conduct of j some person or persons who have been bu?y with the wor Ie. X on: of us can grow very enthusiastic in our admiration of the hoard- ings, which are all too frequently a disfigure- i ment of a town, but the fact remains that these things are part of our machinery of civilisation; all classes and all creeds and sects make use of them; the public look to I them for announcements concerning public I events, the people who put bills upon them pay for the accommodation they get: and it I' ought to be no more. possible to damsge the bills on posting stations with impunity thin I to steal from a neighbour's garden. The police should be asked to assist in the nrote-- tion of this public right, and the offenders— whoever they are—should be smartly pun- ished. I

NEW THEATRE. PORT TALBOT. Mr. Hamilton Stewart well deserves the popularity he enjoys with Port TnTbot audi- i ences. His presentation of Lcrd Lam ley in The Mummy and the Humming Bird," last week, was a delightful performance. Miss A. Bruoe Joy ably supported him as "Lady Lumley," and the other members of the com- pany played their parts well. Next week—as will be seen in our advertising columns— Mr. Fur ieau is staging What happened at Midnight," a play full of exciting situations, And with plenty of U go in it, and an ar- resting love story. It is to be presented by I a capable company, and ought to attract large houses.

i MYOR OF ABE RAYON'S j ?.?L'??.PS':? FJm..0RS' FUND j L; ,,).. IV I _m I To the E-d.i-or. $:, — The postal authorities aL various I .;o iiave ho id z ;c, < parcels from the above fund, owing to incor- rect or insut&cicnt addrs?se3. This no doubt is largely d ie to the men ThL'S "on dolil)t to t-le t icove. 'C.n esteem a favour if you wiH kindly I ia""e hot oi' ".LW> enclosed heii.vt.th in- serted in your this week's issue of th? I "GaZet.t,1. 'f"1 n: A r>i.: .¡.') I Than king you in anticipation. J. PERC-" JACOB. I r. ).r, 4'LJ Private Dennis 6th E.it. Royal Mimster Fnpdier% Military Kos Lhe Depot, France: Private Albert Wrenn, I L. 1;; ..i. v- ..oi.L .ic 1 j \.¡ C Á.,i. ) 7332. F Co^any. K.O.Y. L. Infantry, j B.E.F. Private Robert Murphv, R.E., | B.E.F.; Private T. P. W. J ones. A Company, hJ Platoon. Hoyal Werii Fusiliers, B.E.F.; ;),+- T 'J.)n'j' 0j-' ,)l.r KRRI Privte -J. Pinch, 3174, O Company, K.R.R., B.E.F. Private Win. Morgan, 1396, B Co., .?Lh r:?ojn. 7th S??on, K.r. Irish Ri?s. t '.E.F.: L-C?r!. D. J. El! 2075, D. Co., '5th Service Battalion, B.E.F. Private Wm. Travis, 20)15, C CG, King's Liverpool Regi- i ment, B.E.F.; Private D. Brodriek, 4148, 40th Infantry Brigade, 13th Division, B.E.F. Private Oliver Stokes, 15559, C Co., 10th Division, B.E.F.; Gunner Tcm Daniels, 419, R.G.A., B.E.F. (Mediterranean); Private P. Harwood, 23017, Norfolk Private W. J. Hill, 31418. D Co., 20th R.W.F., France; Private D. J..Jones, 27251. 6th Welsh, Cardiff; Pri- vate E. Haton, 39765, Newcastle-on-Tvne; Pr,va-.e H. Gc?ose- I Private H. Goosey, 22036, 1 Garrison Batt., Seaford; Sergi. T. Davies, 3041, 4th Manches- ters, Lincolnshire; Private Emrys Thomas, 71813, Nslson Batt.; Private W. E. Moss, 15640, 12th Welsh; Private John E. Jones, 1361. Old Hall, Cheshire; Sapper Anthony Williams, 63090, R.E., Houghton Camp. Man- chester; Private Wilmot, 146347, R.A.M.C., Alders hot; Private R. Davies, 19246, 10th Welsh, Rhyl; Private A. Williams, 24865, 12th Welsh; Private D. Cogan, 87800, Glas- gow Private D. Cookley, 21511, S. W.B., B.E.F. Private W. Rees, 4th Platoon, Prince of Wales Co., B.E.F.; Private HampsoA, 14428, D Co, King's Liverpool Regt, B.E.F.; Driver D. J. Jones, 037360, 331st Co., A.S.C., Winchester; Private D. Murphy, 26818. 331st Co.. A.S.Ci, Winchester; Driver S. Jones, 069783. 331st Co., A.S,C., Winchester; Pri- vate W. 0. Donoghue; Corp!. J. Williams, Ammunition Column, S.W.M.B.. Cromer; Private D. U, Griffiths. Royal Flying Corps I Depot. Farnborough; Private S. Cox, D Squad.. A.S.C., Remount Depot; Private l Johnson, C Company, Officers' Mess, Corunna I Barracks, Aldershot; Sapper Roberts, 135290, I.W.T., R.E., Portsmouth; Private T. E. Jones. 2115, 1st Platoon. 3-7th Welsh Cyc- lists. Tenby; Private J. H. Nicholas, 3411, D Co., London Regiment Private E. Joseph, 48914. 139th Field Ambulance, G.P.O. The friends of soldiers or sailors included in the above list should send corrected addresses to Mr. David T. Jenkins, Oak-wood Chambers, Port Talbot.

1^ I 4' I THE PHElSfCASE. I A DEVEOPM ———— There was a development on Tuesday ia the Vale of Glamorgan case, which recent trafcted so much public attention, in Mr. John Watts, farmer, Pendoylan, was W, tenced by Llandaff magistrates to a term d imprisonment for an alleged offeree against the Gam Laws, but who was quickl y released by order of the Home Secreta-y. Mr. Vivian Gwyn (of Messrs. Gwyn and Gwyn, solicitors) on Tuesday applied on be- half of Mr. Watts to the C,),v,)-,dze County^ Bench for a summons against George Hamilton, gamekeeper, Welsh St. alleged assault on the complainant on the 29th November, on the occasion of the; com- plainant's arrest. The magistrates who heard the application were Messrs. Tudor Crawshay (presiding), J. C. Thomas, Illtyd Williams, and David Evans. Thepplication was granted, and the shmmops is -freturnable at the Cowbridge Court on th^.25ty fJanuary. m— ■■■■ m—a—!m"

COYCHURCH. HEBRON Y.P.M.I.S. :-The usual weekly meeting of the above Society was held on Wednesday of last week. The programme for the evening consisted of four ten-minute papers on Bible Characters" by the follow- ing young members of the society: Mr. E. Minn-eft. on "Moses," Mr. C. Jones on Joseph," Mr. Griffiths on Daniel," Mr. I M. J. Lewis on "Solomon." The papers were well read, and were thoroughly enjoyed by all | present.

■ „ .-UZU: I PONTYCYMMER. MC8ICAL-,—Miss Flossie Memory, Adara Street,, pupil of Miss Bessie Evans, English Congregational Manse, passed the PrimaliY Di, ision of the A.^ociattd Board R.A.M. an-4 R.C.M. 6945 SUCCESS. Miss Margaret Hughes, A.R.C.M., of the Royal College of Music, London, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hugfees, Tfaldau Plouse, has jo« been successful in pining the L.is.A.M. diploma for public tin-png. 6955 I iii -j rj.iCAL S (j CCii^sSiiiS.—At the recent examinations of the Associated Board- of the R.A.M. and R.C.M., the following pupils of Miss S. Butler, L.R.A.M., were highly suc- cessful :—Local Centre, Advanced Pianoforte Playmg and 1 hcorv: Miss Edith Augusta Harley, Queen ■ rreet, arsd Mr. Brinley Rich- arck The Strand, Biaengarw. Local School: Ele -lentary, Master Edrisiyn Davies, Alex- andra R ad, .i'c-ii tyeymmcr; Primary, Miss Gr.rendoi ne Burton, Queen Street, Blaen- yarw.. 6946 HALF YEARLY MEETING: -At the B-euuel Calvinistic Methodist Chapel on Sun- day last, the half-yearly services were held. In the mcrning Mr. D. Ii. Jones presided when two papers were read by Messrs. Dl. John Davies on One of the miracles of Christ," and Mr. J. Fox The history of the Church in Corinth." In the after Mr. James Fox presided. Questions were asked of child- ren under 10 years by the chairman: children under 13 years by Mr. J. J. Morgan, B.A. adults by Mr. T. O. Morgan. In the evening the Rev. D. Mardy Davies (pastor), presided, and questions were put to the whole of the Sunday School adults. ENGLISH CON GREG ATI ON AL CHURCH. —A competitive meeting was held on Tues- day, the proceeds of which went to provide .soldiers' gifts. Mr. J. Butler adjudicated u;tc musical items in a pleasant and encourag- ing manner, while Miss F. M. Thomas in se- leeting the best trimmed hat, gave some use- ful hints to the men-milliners. The follow- ing were the successful competitors:—Open recitation: 1, Laura Absalom; 2, Baden Griffiths and Ruby Jones. Open solo (12 to u y Jones. Op-en so l o (12 to 16): 1, Gwyn Lewis; 2, Agnes Healey. Solo for married women: Mrs. Price. Hat-trim- ming for men: Prize divided between Mr. John Ford and Mr Gwilym H. Thomas. Children's- Choral Competition/: Miss Bessie Evans' Choir. Adults' Choral Competition: Mr. Evan W. Davies' Choir. As both choirs were not contested they decided to leave the prizes until another corn pet it-ion! Open solo for adults: Mr. Gwilym Lewis. EISTEDDFOD.—At Bethlehem Chapel, Victoria Street, Pontycymmer, a very suc- cessful eisteddfod was held. The conductor was Rev. D. Mardy Davies, C.M.; adjudica- tors: Music, Rev. D. Davies, Biaengarw; literature, Rev. E. Moses Evans, Biaengarw. The accompanist was Mrs. L. J. Price; trea- surer, Mr. R. Hughes; and secretary, Mr. L. J. Priee. Awards:—Solo, for children under 8 years: Miss Edna Price, J Pontycymmer. Solo (under 12 years): 1, Miss Dilys Watkins, Biaengarw; 2, Miss Edna Price. Solo (under 16 years): 1, Miaster J. H. Lewis, Biaengarw; 2, divided between Misses Ethel J rancis and Mildred E. Harley, Blaengarw. Tenor or soprano sola: Mr. J. Morris, Blaen- garw. Recitation (under 16): Master Oliver James, Blaengarw. Recitation (for adults): .Nir..Davi,d Morgan, Blaengarw. Four verses on "Conscription": Mr. Wm. Hughes, Blaen- garw. Best letter froill the trenches to parents at home: Mr. L. J. Morgan, Blaen- garw. Children's choir: 1, Tabernacle Choir, Biaengarw (conducted by Mrs. Hugh Jones); 2, Bethlehem, Victoria Street (con- ducted by Mr. J. C. Morgan). Chief choral: 1, Bethel Choir, Pontycymmer (conducted by Mr. Thos. Arthur Jones) 2, Bethlehem Choir, (conducted by Mr. J. C. Morgan). TABEttN A CLE Id.LS. :This Society held its last meeting on New Year's Eve. The programme consisted of musical items, recita- tions, a Welsh drama Ele ma fa," and a coffee supper. The programme was success- fully sustained by:—Miss Annie M. Rowlands, Miss Olwen Thomas, Miss Blodwen Owen, Hannah E. Evans, Miss May Bowen, and Miss M. E. Davies' Sunday School Class. The characters in the drama were excellently per- formed by Miss Francis Evans (Marged), Mrs. Dd. J. Mcrgans (Shan Lloyd), Miss Hilda Phillips (Sisa), Mr. John Lewis (Simon Mor- ria, deacon), Mr. Dd. S. John (Rev. Daniel Roberts, Minister of Salem). After this a large number retired to the vestry to par- take of a coffee supper. There presided A the tables:—Mrs. Abiathur Davies, Mrs. Dd. Thomas, Mrs. Thos. B. Thomas, Miss Susy Thomas, Miss Annie J. Davies, Miss Francis Evans, Miss May Hill, Miss Lizzie Evans, Mrs. Dd. Hughes, Mrs. Evan Davies, Mrs. John Hill, Mrs. Jas. Lewis, Mrs. Evan Ed- wards, Mr. John Evans, Mr. D. C. Jones, Miss Bessie Rogers ably presided at the piano. The president of the society (the Rev. Dd. Hughes) presided in the absence of Councillor Llewellyn Jones. Great praise is due to the Committee for the success of the undertaking. The Chairman of the com- mittee, Mr. John M. Owen; vice-chairmen, Messrs. Jas. Garfield, E. T. Evans, Mrs. Wm. John; treasurer, Mr. D. C. Jones, and sec- retary, Mr. Llew Harris.

I NANTYFFYLLON SOCIAL.—A social tea was given by the members of Bethlehem English Congrega- tional Sunday School, Nantyffyllon, on Mon- day. A large number sat down to a capital repast. The ladies who waited at the tables were: Mrs. T. G. Evans, Mr. Alban Thomas, Mrs. Rhys John, Mrs. Yvilliam Lawes, iMrs. Charles Colktt, Mrs. Edmonds, Mrs. Joseph Grey, Misses J. Lawes, Doily Collett, Mary Wyne, and Annie Murray, assisted by Mr. Thomas John. For their enemy and good work with the Sunday School, under rather trying circumstances during last year, the fol- lowing were re-elected for the ensuing year:— Mr. James Griffiths, superintendent; Mr. Harry John, secretary; Mrs. A. Humphries, organising secretary; and Mr. Thomas Per- sons, treasurer. A vote of thanks was given to the above, proposed by Mr. D. Davies, seconded by Mr. C. Collett, and supported by Messrs. T. G. Evans and Frank Glanville. After tea (Mr. D. E. Lewis presiding), a splendid programme of songs, duets, recita- tions, etc., was given by the following:—Mr. Pearse, Master Pearse, Miss Lucy Pearse, Master Howard Evans, Misses Muriel and Annie Edmonds, Misses Olwen Rees, Violet Murray, Maggie Davies, Muriel Collett, Mrs. Morgans, & Llansamlet; Miss Hughes, V,.ryn; and Miss Lor a Davies. Miss Annie Davies accompanied the singers in excellent style. A hearty vote of thanks to the Chairman, proposed by Mr. Frank Pearse, seconded by Mr. D. J. Murray, and supported by Mr. J. Griffiths, was carried. PRINTED AND PUBLISHED by the CENTRAL GLAMORGAN PRINTING AND PUBLISHING COJIPANI, IRD., at the GLAMORGAN GAKETTE" OFFICES, QUESS STREET, BRIOGEKD, GPMOHGAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY -14th, 1916.

ABERAYQN-PORT TALBOT LITERARY BOGIE 1Y. THE )?3!V'DUAL AND THE STATE. I T!a?- l?,3!V'3UAL AND THE STATE. An interesting and appropriate subject was dealt with at the fortnightly meeting of the Literary Debating Society, on Friday even- ing last, when Mr. David Davies, M.A., Unive-rsity College, Aberystwyth, lectured on The Individual and the State." Mr. L. Ll. Brooks presided over a very enthusias- tic and well-attended meeting. The subject of the lecture had a special and absorbing interest at the present time in view of the Conscription controversy with its vital question—Should the individual con- science be sacrificed for the National Ambi- tion? Great praise is therefore due to Mr. Davies (who is a local gentleman) for his very exhaustive, masterly discourse on such an important subject. The introductory remarks were entirely de- voted to the term State, and its direct re- lationship to the individual. The various I definitions of the different schools of thought I were carefully noted, and explained the his- tory of the conceptions by new ones more conforma ble to the facts. Thus the family I gave way to the house, the house to the tribe, etc. Uniformly with this develop- ment wn•; the development of the individual. He had grown up with the State, and had I ultimately. asserted his individuality. Woman's individuality had yet to be fully I recognised. What, their were the duties in- cumbent upon the State? First, and para- mount. it must be remembered that tb- Stat" did net exist as an institution for the upholding of private interest; out as a safe- guard for the right of the individual, main- taining for him, freedom of thought, speech, and action. To protect tlie well-being of the whole, and the part, to make it possible for a man to realise his better-self, not mere happiness alone, but the highest moral excel- lence, in short, hi3 soul. Hence the personal ideal was absorbed in the social ideal, which ultimately gave expression to the Nation (or Stated ideal. The permanent conscience of the individual, however, must be recognised and respected by the State, but in acting in accordance with the dictates of his own con- cience. that individual must be prepared to meet the ultimate penalty if needs be. The Society appreciated to the full, the lucid re- marks of the lecturer on such an abstract subject, and the subsequent remark ? mani- fested the pride and esteem in which Mr. Davies is held by his old schoolfellows, who are members of the Society. A very interesting discussion followed to which the following contributed :—Dr. Hen- rietta Jr>rre*. Miss J. B. Maekie, Messrs. T. J. I>e.,r' W. R. Thomas, Evan -T. Lewis. T. Jones, "1 E. T. Rees (Hon. secretary). The thank-i of the Society were accorded Mr. T)avif><; n the proposition of Mrs. W. R. Tb* seconded bv Mr. Cuthbert Howell. The le~tursuitably responded.

BLAERGAFW LOCUS' CHOIR —————————— AT PORTHCAWL. Tie following programe was rendered by the Blaengarw Ladies' Choir at- The Rest, Porthcawl on Wednesday of last week at a | concert given to the wounded soldiers:— | Choruses, "Boys of Wa!s/' "Yr Haf," Comrades' Song of Hope," Soldiers' Chorus," and "Absent"; solos by Mesdames M. Lewis, Hatch, and Llewellyn, and Miss Lloyd; duets, Ale-dailies Hatch and David- son; elocutionary items, by Miss Owen. The conductor was Mr. T. H. Davies, and the ac- companist Madame G. Lewis-Meredith. A | pleasant time was sent, under the chairman- ship of Mr. E. J. Bevan, Porthcawl.

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DEATH Ü A V'BLf CYllM-1 DEATH G? ft V CTfM- I J. V,) N RESIDENT. I r: ro. (' r ¡ I -fj NICHOLAS PASSES AWAY. I ""T):);r ,"T"T,\  I '?N AP'?Z NATION.) LAS: Sunday morning* Cwniavon lost one of I its IYe.,t known residents when Mr. David Nicholas, Woodiiuid Ruw, passed a way in his I 84th year. Deceased was in many respects a r??a.a.?ie character, and his naiue has been ? o.er h:df a (.e?:ry a hoL.seLdd word in unusual c?r.L's. Me Las been described as tiie lather and giandlacher ci music in the Aian V aiiey, and many a prominent musician ,n »\ aics not lie to his guiding and to<cer.e^ g.urus in clays gone by. Cobbett's d:ctaiii a Jj,a £ »:or.a..e love of rliUS.{; WJO a sign of \vtau intellect," truly confoun- ded by him, for though music and singing claimed his earnest devotion, no man was better versed in the history of Wales and its literature. His chief mental characteristic was a remarkable open and well-informed mind. No idea in pontics or religion was too novel or startling to hinder its acceptance or discussion, and whether it was the latest in- vention cot science or the latest idea of new or old theology, his ever-active intelligence found a place for it in tbe scheme of things and the purpose of his life. He retained this chara,teristic almost to the end, and to withirt a' few months of his death his intellect remained almost undimmecl. A true son of Wales, he remained loyal to its best tradi- tions and its eisteddfodau always remained to him, not the arena for competition and conflicting passions born of disappointment, but the institution through which Wales could cultivate and develop her love of music, poetry, aad literature. The family had its origin at Sirhowy, Bre- conshire, and migrating to Glyn-Neath, eventually settled at Cwmavon just at the commencement of its industrial activities. They had gradually witnessed the change from wooded hills, green fields, and pasture, to huge smelting furnaces, and an atmosphere of smoke, and the accumulating disfiguring heaps of slag refuse which usually accompany "industrial" development. He had there- fore, a varied store of local history, and his retentive memory, coupled with his power of apt expression, makes one regret that both the leisure, and means were denied him to make a written record of his recollections and experiences. Had he been able to do so, the rising generation of Cwmavonites might have had a glimpse of the "petty tyrants" our fore- fathers fought and, incidentally, their eyes opened to the petty tyrannies they foster and encourage fco-day. The Zion Independent Chapel has lost one who has served it for over 70 years as Sunday School teacher, choir conductor, and deacon. The cause, of which his father was one of the founders, always claimed his allegiance, and received without stint his service, affection and devotion. A record of active member- ship extending over 70 years was rich in the history and traditions of his beloved Zion. He had sat under the ministrations of that distinguished minister, the late Edward Roberts, who for 45 years wielded a powerful pulpit influence, was a zealous champion of religious freedom. After the lapse of a few years, the pulpit of Zion was filled by the Rev. Dan Evans, now of Hawen, Cardigan- shire, who worthily filled, in the pulpit and in the public; mind, the position and traditions of his predecessor. Mr. Evans was succeeded by the Rev. John Phillips, now of Mountain Ash, and at present the pulpit is occupied by the Rev. D. Marlais Davies, B.A., a young man who gives every promise of remaining loyal to the traditions of Zion for fearless ex- pression of opinion and courage to express his convictions. He, at any rate, will miss the face and presence of "Dafydd Nicholas," who has left his earthly Zion for the Zion of eternal light and liberty. He had, to within a few years of his death, followed his occupation as engine driver at the local tinworks. From childhood almost he had been a "horny-handed son cf toil," earn- ing his daily bread by the sweat of his brow, and his spiritual sustenance in religious and musical service for his fellow-men. Some years ago a few grateful residents promoted a presentation for his many services, and, need- less to say, the services were immeasurably greater than the presentation. His was a life of service uncursed by the accumulation of riches, and in the end his is the greater honour and the richer reward. He leaves two daughters to mourn their loss. Both are married, one to Mr. Evan Thomas, 3 Woodland Row, Cwmavon, the pre- sent conductor of Zion Church, and the well- known conductor of Cwmavon Choir; and Mrs David Davies, of 14 Woodland Row, Cwm- avon, with whom he resided when he died. We are pleased to state that the musical tra- dition and heritage left by the deceased are being kept flourishing by Mr. Evan Thomas, his son-in-law, and by his grandson, Mr. D. Afan Thomas, the organist of Bethesda Inde- pendent Chapel, Briton Ferry, a young man who has given promise of a distinguished career in the musical world, and has already won first piace in the National Eisteddfod as composer.

MAESTEG GROUP OF SCHOOL MANAGERS. APPOINTMENTS MADE. I At an ordinary meeting of the managers of the Maesteg Group of Schools held in the Board Room of the Secondary School, Maes- teg, the following appointments were made: —Miss Mair Jones, C.A., to Plasnewydd Boys' School; and Mr. William Roberts, U.T., to the same school.

1 ??-? Y? ? ,) ? ?" ?? st ± -D.i &:<%>: 41 ,i ft v if. *$» c t v + ??????????%????????????! T' T ,> 4 That a considerable nuu-ber, 11 not one hah I the people one meets in cne »t:eet.5 of Abeer- avon and Port Talbot hare their eyes fixed in the wrong part of their heads. I ? That if they had one fixed ia front and the I other behind, th??v mig'n be able to s?e what ) G was going on behind th?m, and at the same I time see where they were goiji^j. i n ii That an arrangement of that kind would be very useful to the younger generation of women. 1 the best way to examine the goods exhibited in a shop window in a crowded thoroughfare is to stop whilst you are doing it 1i U 1 That if you kef-p walking whilst you are staring .at a new hat or the latest pattern of socks, you are allllû:t"ure to run into some- body coming, the other way. t < Tiu-t it is stupid to bump into somebody and say "sorry" and then repeat the offence three yards further 0.:1- f 1 That there is a good deal of conversation in barbers' shops about the need for Conscrip- tion. T T H That a well-known supoorter of the policy is anxious to serve in the ranks, but lie is not quite young enough.

 Personal Chat. *1 Mr. and Mrs. James Cardy, of George- street, Port Talbot, and Mr. and Mrs. Basil Cardy, of Edward-street, Port Talbot have lately been the recipients of very sad news from the front. Their nephew, Lieut. A. E. Whitehouse, of the 12th London Regiment, known as The Rangers has been killed in action. Mir. Whitehouse was the only child of Mr and Mrs. Whitehouse, of Oldham, Col- chester. He was employed in the Bank of England when the war commenced. He had been a member of the King's Royal Rifle Corps, and he joined the Rangers in August in April, 1915, he was offered and ac- cepted a commission, and was killed shortly after his return to the front. He was a young man of much promise, and, being an only son, his death has been the cause of inculculable sorrow to his parents.

I MAESTEG HOSPITAL. I GENEROUS SUBSCRIPTION. At a meeting of the Maesteg Cottage Hos- pital Committee on Thursday last week, con- sideration was given to the question of rais- ing funds for the maintenance of the hospital. The Secretary read a letter from the general manager of the Celtic Collieries, Ltd., stating that he had heard from Sir Owen Phillips, K.C., M.G., chairman of the Com- pany, in reply to the committee's circular letter, and Sir Owen had pleasure in approv- ing of the general manager's suggestion that the Company should give a donation of £ 100 to the hospital, and was quite agreeable to make this an annual contribution providing it was found that other collieries in the dis- trict were subscribing proportionately, and that the hospital was being properly man- aged. The general manager added that the least Sir Owen could expect was that the hos- pital should be properly managed, and that other collieries should contribute as sugges- ted. The letter was received with considerable satisfaction. It is understood a substantial contribution is likely to be received from Messrs. North's. The question of handing over the hospital to the St. John Ambulance Association or to the Red Cross Society for the use of woun- ded soldiers was considered, but as sufficient particulars had not been forthcoming, the matter was adjourned.

RAILWAYMEN'S RED CROSS BED -0 PRAISEWORTHY EFFORT AT TONDU. A meeting of the subscribers of the Tondu G.W.R. Loco. and Carriage War Distress Fund was held in the G.W.R. Reading Room on Sunday to consider the question of providing and maintaining a bed in the Coytrahen Red Cross Hospital, which is to be opened shortly for wounded soldiers. There was a good number of workmen from each department present, and Engineman J. Richards presided. The chairman Mr. Bal- linger appealed to all those who had not I started to subscribe to the fund to do so. After some discussion several questions were answered by Mr. Ballinger. The meeting decided to provide one bed, and maintain it during the time it was oc- oupied, and to make a present of another bed to be kept as a spare bed until such time as it was needed. The above fund has been started about 16 monhs, during which time about £ 170 has been subscribed by the workmen in the above department. The above fund is used only for distress caused by the war amongst Loco and Carriage Department Employees. Twenty-five men from the two departments are serving with the colours at present. Mr. F. Harris proposed a vote of thanks to the chairman, and the chairman thanked his fel- low workers for attending.

I SOLDIER^ CHRISTMAS MENU. I Mr. T. Gordon Jenkins, of Port Talbot, has received a very interesting letter from his brother, Private c Jenkins (a well-known local boy), in which he gives an account of how he spent Christmas Day, with a Sniping Section of one of the Canadian Battalions to which he is attached. With a large fire- place and oven, able to roast a good joint of beef and some pheasants, and warming up the other good things from home, they were de- termined to make their Christmas Day as home-like as possible, and did so in the very best style. To give an idea of their re- sults. he enclosed a menu card. which be- trayed high living in a marked degree:— Christmas, 1915. Sniper Farm, ————— Menu:—Consomme Belgique. Roast Pheas- ant. Sausage. Green Peas. Apple Jelly. Rost Beef au Jus. Mashed Potatoes. Eng- lish Plum Pudding. Rum Sauce. Plum Cake. Shortcake. Gingerbread. Cana- dian Cheese. Coffee. Nuts. Dates. Fruit Candy. Cigars." He concludes by saying that the Germans appear to be hope- lessly beaten on the Western front.

i TRAGIC AFFAIR AT CWM-F?UI I. I DEACON FOUND HANGING. I j Tuomas Richards, 46 Bridgend Road, Cvvu.UlI, ageii 72, was found hanging in an outhouse at the rear of his residence on Mon- day. I nc IT R --¡r: ":1-" P. C IT. R. Williams was called in, a, t found the body suspended by a sash cord, which was tied co the rafters in the roof. A slip knot uad bet-n made. The constable cue I the cord and let the body down, but found it quite cold. Dr. Bell Thomas was called in, but ex- pressed the opinion that the man had been dead about four hours. Deceased was a man cf sober habits, but of late had appeared very Cf I T;rn I-n c- 'T I I THE IXQCEST. I On Tuesday morning. at the Cwmdu Police Station, Mr. Lewis M. Thomas (district coro- ner) and a jury of which Mr. T. E. Hopkins, J.P., was foreman, held the inquest. Fanny Jenkins, of 46 Bridgend Road, sa:d she had been living with the deceased (who was her uncle) since she was a baby, and now she was his house-keeper. He was 72 years of age, and a retired collier. She last saw him alive at 10.45 p.m. on Saturday night last. He was going to bed at that time. She could see he was not very well, but he made no complaint. Witness got up at 9.45 a.m. on Sunday, and w hn she went downstairs sha noticed the fire was not alight. As her uncle usually lit the fire, she was frightened, and thought her uncle had been taken ill. She went to the lavatory to look for him, and there she saw her uncle hanging to the roof with a rope around his neck. She was able to open the door. His feet were about 3 inches from the floor. She was going to call the nearest neighbour when she saw two men passing on the road, and she called to them, and they afterwards went for a policeman. Deceased was a sober, religious man, and a deacon. He went to chapel on Saturday night about 6 o'clock, and returned at 7.30. She had no idea as to what caused him to commit suicide. In reply to the foreman witness said she had been 15 years with her uncle. Lately she had noticed he was a little depressed; every little thing worried him. P.S. Alfred Robert Williams said he was called to 46, Bridgend Road, and found the deceased in the outhouse hanging by the neck to a rope (produced) which was suspend- ed from a rafter which formed the roof. His feet were al;)out three inches from the ground, and the rope had been made into a slip noo&e. The knct of the rope was tight on the neck. He immediately lifted the bodv up, and cut ti body up, and cut the rope, and upon exajnina- tion found that a portion of the body was quite cold.' The doctor had been sent for in the meantime. Deceased was fully dressed, bufhi3 boots were not laced. Dr. T. J. Bell Thomas said lie was called to 46, Bridgend Road about 10.30 on Sunday morning. He found the body of the deceased on the sofa. Death had taken place. He ex- amined him, and found marks of a band around the throat, and found by signs that death was due to strangulation caused by hanging. From the result of his examina- tion he estimated that the deceased had been dead 3 to 5 hours. He happened to know that the deceased had been suffering from a disease, degeneration of the Blood vessels which predisposed to melancholia. In his opinion as a result of one of these attacks, and not fully realising the gravity of his deed, he hanged himself, when of unsound mind. A verdict was passed in accordance with the medical evidence. ( 1—6—

I MAESTEG TRIBUNAL I CASES CONSIDERED. The first meeting of < the Maesteg Tri- bunal under the Group System was held on Monday at the Council Offices, Mr. J. P. Gibbon, J.P., presiding. There were also present Mr. Gomer Davies, Mr. Rhys Griffiths, Mr. John Hughes, and the military representatives were Colonel J. 1. D. Nicholl and Mr. T. E. Hopkins, J.P. The business was conducted with closed doors. Several claims were considered. HP1—■—IMHI

PATRIOTIC CONCERT I AT PONTYCYMMER. I A second performance of the cantata en- titled "Britannia's Reception" was held on Wednesday last week at Zion English Baptist Chapel, in aid of the local relief fund. The committee which organised the concert was composed of members from Zion and Salem Baptist Churches, Mr. John Edwards acting as secretary," and Mr. Wm. Stones as trea- surer. The chair was occupied by Mr. D. Thomas. The concert was opened by a solo I sung by Mr. Treharne entitled Till the boys come home," the choir and audience joining in the chorus. Britannia was represented by Miss G. Hills; Father Neptune, by Mr. Shad Williams;; Belgium by Miss H. M. Rey- nolds. The Chairman, in closing, proposed a vote of thanks to all whb iiad 11 helped to make the concert a success. R4r mentioned the conductress, who, as**#ell as training the choir, had composed a recital tion for Belgium. Mr. Eli Pugh, in second-' ing the vote of thanks, mentioned the sums of money which had been given in local relief in the Pontyrhyl Ward, amounting to jE421 9s. 5d.

I BELGIUM'S APPEAL. I Belgium, the land of the peaceful; Belgium, the home of the free; Thy children, hardworking and thrifty, Their homage and love give to thee. But now thy brave sons and fair daughters Are crushed to the death by the foe; Humanity trembles and staggers With grief at the tale of thy woe. Oh, England! behold now the Treaty, The rights of small nations to guard; Oh, God, look down in Thy mercy, When justice and truth are debarred. 'Tis naught but a scrap of waste paper," i Said the Hun, as he tore it in twain; Might is the watchword of Kultur, Right has no place in her train." Britannia, we claim thy protection; Thy laws are, aye, upright and just; Thy honour for ever untarnished, Thy word is the bond which we trust. BRITANNIA'S RESPONSE. I England will succour the needy, England will honour the brave, England will come to the rescue, The "soul of Belgium" to save. — Mrs. Reynolds, Pontycymmer. I

I' PENCOED. PRACTICAL PHILANTHROPY. On Tuesday evening a meeting was held at the Public Hall, Pencoed, to consider the question of showing practical sympathy with Mr. Ed- ward Clarke, of Fairiawn Terrace.- Mr. Clarke was injured at a local colliery, and has been an invalid ever since. He served for years in the Royal Marines, and until his ac- cident was a well set up and soldierly-looking man. At the meeting Mr. W. A. Howell was appointed chairman; Mr. Waiter Pwes. who convened the meeting, secretary; and Mr. L. Vaughan Evans, treasurer. W LEK OF PRAYER—The first week of the v £ ar was observed by some of the local r Nonconfovniist churches as a week of prayer. At Penuel Baptist S uo>irao:a there were ser- vices up to Friday ng. At Sate in Cal- vin istie Methodist k- -om the; e were good attendances, a oae&vhig being held also on Saturday evenin g. Ac the hitter chape- the week of prayer is an institution of long standing, and some of the services have been tures of remarkable power. Years ago, a revival broke out during the week of prayer, with the result that about twenty professed conversion. I L'NLRAL.—The funeral took place at Ooycuurch on Wednesday of Miss Susie Pol- glase, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Polgla.se, Woodland Villa, Pencoed. The service at Coychurch Parish Church afforded a pleasing illustration of Christian unity and of Chris- ten courtesy on. the pa. of the Rector, the Rev. F. C. Williams. The lesson was read by the Rev. D. W. Howell, pastor of Trinity English Calvinistic Methodist Church, Pen- coed, the rev. gentleman also giving out a hymn at the graveside, and closing the ser- vice with the benediction. The other parts of the service were conducted by the Rev. F. C. Williams. The chief mourners were Mr. and Mrs. Polglase (father and mother), the Misses Olive and Maggie Polglase (sisters), I I ste-, -s ) and Mr. Ernest Polglase (brother). ————— ————

I CAERAU. MUSICAL SUCCESS:—In connection with the London College of Music the following were successful:—Pianoforte playing: Miss Myfanwy Rees, Homfray Street, N-anty- ffyllon, was successful in gaing the Diploma; she is now entitled to wear the cap and gawn of the college, also to append the let- ters A.L.C. Senior: 1st class, Doris Francis, Port Talbot. Advanced Intermediate (with honours), Nellie Sparkes, Wesley Street. Intermediate: 1st class, Joseph Davies, Aber- gwynfi, and Edith Jones, Treharne Road. Elementary: (with honours), Beryl Davies, Cymmer Road, Caerau, and Lucy Saunders, Bryn, 1st class. Theory of Music: Junior, 1st class, Joseph Davies, Abergwynfi; Ele- meary; 1st class, Evan H. Hughes, Bryn T. ace, Caerau. The above are pupils of Miss Alice M. Thomas, L.L.C.M., Advanced Certificate; R.A.M. and R.C.M., Afan Villa, Caerau. 6934.

I NANTYFFYI,LON. OMISSION.—In our account of the Nanty- ffyllon presentation meeting last week we omitted to-rnetition that a solo was given by Mr. Ben Davies, Mrs. Humphreys accompany- ing; and instead of Mr. Joseph Williams it should have been Mr. Joshua Williams. ————— ————

I LLANTWIT MAJGK FUNERAL—On Thursday there was buried at Llantwit Major Parish Churchyard the re- mains of Mrs. A. Kay, Castree, who for many years was cook to Mr. Tudor Crawshay, at Dimlands. The deceased, who had been suffering for some time with an internal com- plaint, passed away ou the previous Sunday. Irs. Castree was a valued and faithful ser- vant of Mr. and Crawshay, and highly respected and loved by her fellow servants. Mr. Crawshay and h-s staff attended the funeral, together with numerous friends of the deceased. Flowers covered the coffin, I sent by Mr. and Mrs. Crawshay, the staff, and other friends. The deceased's husband is fighting for his country in France, and much sympathy is felt with him in his sad bereave- ment. —————. e .————

I CO ABRIDGE. WEDDING.—On Sunday last a wedding was solemnised at the Limes C.M. Church. The contracting parties were Mr. Willie Moms and Miss A. Blick, daughter of Mr. J. Bliek, manager of the Cowbridge Gas Works. A large company of friends assembled to wit- ness the .ceremony. The Rev. Emrys Davies officiated. The presents included :—Father of bride, cheque; mother of bride, household linen; brother of bride, cheque Sister Florry, afternoon tea cloth; Sisters Beatrice and Nellie, brush and comb; sister of bridegroom, pair of vases; grandmother of bride, lamp and pictures; Mr. and Mrs. J. Williams, Eiderdown quilt; Mrs. T. J. Yorwerth, pair of blankets; Master B. Bown, table cloth and bed linen; Mrs. W. John, table cloth; Mrs. Esoott (The Limes), set of jugs; Mrs. E. W. Miles, tray cloth; Mrs Jenkins (Croft House), table centre; Miss Blanche John, d'oyleys; Miss Blodwen Thomas, photo, frames; Mrs. Isaac Thomas, bread dish; Miss V. Morgan (Rhondda Villa), handkerchiefs; Miss 0. Yor- werth, crumb tray and brush; Mrs. J. John, (Croft Terrace), tea. cosy; Mrs. Edmunds, senr. (Broadway), butter dish; Miss Elsie Davies, hand-painted table centre; Mrs. E. Davies. duchesse set; Miss Dolly John, set of jugs; Mrs. J. Edmunds, feather pillows; Mr. Gibbs, photo frames; Mr D. Escott, butter dinh j.. Mrs White (Llantrisant), half-dozen egg cups 5.inq,. silver butter knife; Mrs. Durston jam spoon; Mrs. Sharp, Cardiff, cushat cover. ^rri —

Ann Richman, who I in the vil- j lage of PenmaTk, died in^^fc "j^ear 1760, aged I 120. She claimed to ha< a recollection of the battle of St. Fag's; which was fought between the forces of\ Oliver Cromwell and King Charles on the 8th May, 1648. I

I rlarnharw. BETHANIA M.,I.S.On Thursday even- ing of last week the weekly meeting of this society was held under the presidency of the Rev. W. Thomas (pastor). The following took part in the programme:—Debate be- tween Miss Afonwen Jones and Master Idwal Jones. Solo by Miss M. A. Parry; recitation by Mr. Daniel Howells. A paper was read by Mr. Dd. Hughes, Gwenraeth Villa, on Glance at the Bible and its con- tents." Speeches were made by Richard Jones, and Wm. Howells. All-s. John Grif- fiths was accompanist. READINGS:—The usual weekly series of readings held in connection with St. James' Church took place at the Parish Hall, on Monday evening, the Rev. W. J. Williams, L.D. (St. Mary's, Pontyrhyl), presiding. The musical items were adjudicated by Mr. J. R. Jones (English Congregational), and the literary subjects were adjudicated by the Chairman, whilst Mrs. Meredith accom- panied. The awards were:—Solo for boys and girls (under 16): Prize divided between Misses Adelina and Myfanwy Simon. Solo for married women: Prize divided between Mesdames A Gwynne and H. Hatch. Open recitation for adults: Miss Catherine Wil- liams. Humorous story Miss Katie Har- ries. The following also contributed to the programme:—Recitation: "Guilty or not Guilty," Miss Maggie May Williams; solo, "Flight of the Ages," Miss Gwyne.th Ed- wards; duet, "Nothing but the Herd o^ Jesus," Master Idris and Miss May Pritchard (encored); solo, "Laddie in Khaki," Mrs. Hatch. The general vote of thanks was pro- posed bv Mr. J. W. English, which was seconded by Mr. John Lewis. The sinp-ip- of the W-elkh National A.nthem bv Miss, Gwyneth Edwards brought a very pleasant evening to a close.

I OGMORE VALE WEDDING.—A pretty wedding was sole!n- nised at Llangeinor Church on Sunday, the contracting parties being Miss E. A. Rattray, daughter of Mr Charles Rattray, High Street, and Mr. W. R. Edwards, Ogmore Vale. The bride was attired in a beautiful dress of V iennese rose satin, with picture hat to, match. The bridesmaids were Miss Olive Job, Nantymoel (cousin of the bride), and Miss Olga Rattray (sister). Miss Job wore a autiful grey costume, trimmed with white r and hat to match, and Miss Olga Rattray re a nice navy blue satin costume, with hat match. The bride was given away by her ther, and Mr. Emlyn Rattray (brother to ide) was best man, and was accompanied Mr. E. J. Morgan, Mr. A. Baker, and Mr. Edwards. After the ceremony a recep- tion was held at the bride's house, and later the happy couple proceeded to Bristol, where the honeymoon was spent. There was a large number of presents.

CWMAVON NEWS. (30!sT:NUED FROM PAGE 7.) I Mrs. Thomas, the wife of Mr. Richard I Thomas, of Pelly Street, Cwmavon, died on Monday ftum the effects of paralysis sustained before the Christmas holidays. The deceased I lady was 52 years of age. Mr. D. JJ Rees, son of Mr. David gees, ot Peily-street, Cwmavon, came home from the Dardanelles this week. He has been wounded in thehanti. He joined "Kitchener's Army" a little over a year ago, and went to Gallipoli during the rly days of that important ex- pedition. FLYING VISIT OF FLYING MAN. I Mr. Allwyn Williams, son of Mr. Wm. Wil- liall's, of East Lodge, Cwmavon, paid a flying visit to hu parents last week-end. He got into Cwmavon late on Friday evening, and returned <Ki the mail on Sunday evening. Mr. Williams was a teacher at the Central Schools, Port Talbot, until the beginning of October last, when he joined the Royal Fly- ing Corps. He was first stationed at Farn- borough, then in Ireland, and he is now at Kensington. He looked exceedingly fit, and well during his brief trip to his native hearth, and he seems to enjoy soldiering.