The Llanelly Mercury and South Wales Advertiser

THE PUPIL TEACHERS' CENTRAL CLASSES. «- DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES AT THE I ATHENAEUM HALL. INTERESTING SPEECHES BY LOCAL I EDUCATIONALISTS. An exceedingly interesting meeting was held at the Athenaeum Hall, Llanelly, on Friday evening last under the auspices of the Pupil Teachers' Central Classes. The hall was filled with a most appreciative audience, representing the School Board, the teachers, and the general public. Mr. J. Duckworth, B.A., the chief of the centre, had charge of the arrangements, which were faultlessly carried through. The company foregathered at the invitation of Mr. Duckworth on the occasion of the annual distribution of prizes to the success- ful students of the centre at the rocent examamina- tions conducted under the auspices of the Science and Art Department. The proceedings were graced by the presence of the borough member, Sir J. J. Jenkins, M.P., who distributed the prizes. Mr. H. J. Howell (chairman of the Llanelly School Board presided and amongst others present were :— Mr. B. B. Scorrou, science and art inspector, Mr. H. Wilkins, the ex-chairman of the Llanelly School Board; Mr. J. A. Williams, Mr. Ivor Davies, Mr. J. Lewis, Mr. G. F. Blake, Mr. Tom Hughes, Mr. W. David, Mr. J. Maybery, Mr. D. H. Bowen, Mr. L. Bradley, Mr. G. Hopkins, Mr. J. M. Jones, Mr. G. Harries, Revs. D. Wynne Evans, Thomas Johns, Miss Poston and Mrs. J. A. Williams. The Chairman, in opening the proceedings, said they had met together that evening for the purpose of presenting the successful teachers in the science and art examinations with the certifi- cates of the department. At one time there was no such class in Llanelly as Centre for Pupil Teachers. Bat some time ago the School Board thought it wise to establish a centre in Llanelly and since the class had been in vogue, no doubt the pupil teachers had made greater strides than they did previously. Formerly the teachers were separated in the various schools and taught by separate teachers. Now he was pleased to state they had the central school thoroughly organized, with science and art classes on Saturday mornings. The School Board had done as much as they could for the training of the pupils attending this class. He was very much struck by a paragraph which appeared in a newspaper sometime ago, in relation to the great strides made by Denmark in respect of education. He found in the paragraph that the Danish peoplehad thoroughly established technical schools in their midst—a system of education which had produced the best results. They were now giving the pupil teachers of Llanelly every possible chance in the confident hope that the organized education carried on in the centre would affect for good every department of educational work in the town. Mr. Duckworth said that since the Centre had been founded, nearly four years ago, they had met in Prospect Place School. The place was fairly central when it was considered that teachers attended from Llwynhendy and neighbourhood, but owing to the increase in the number of students, and in the subjects taken, necessitating more classes, it had now become very inconvenient for them on Saturday mornings. The younger p.-t.'s had nine hours' instruction per week, and the elder ones six bours, exclusive of Saturday morning, and in this time instruction was given in some thirteen or fourteen different subjects. During the period from November to May, Saturday morning was devoted to instruction in mathematics, science, and art. As a rule, the student took up one science and one art subject during a session; the younger girls, however, merely took up freehand and geometrical drawing. Thus the curriculum was sufficient to lay a broad and complete foundation upon which a good education might be based. The necessity of gaining one science certificate, and several art certificates, for the purposes of the scholarship examination, also rendered it imperative that their subjects should receive adequate attention. The present curriculum at the Centre was sufficient (except in one branch—languages) to enable any person of ability to matriculate shortly after leaving the Centre. In addition to French or "Welsh, which were regularly taken, many boys took -up Latin privately, with the view of matriculating as soon as opportunity offered. During last session, there were 103 students in attendance, and Mr. Duckworth paid a high tribute to the earnestness and ability of his able coadjutors. Messrs, Griffith Hopkins, John Lewis, Ivor J. Davies, and D. H. Bowen, as well as to the zeal of many of the students. After describing the difference between the life of an ordinary scholar at a day school, and that of a pupil-teacher, who must teach or be instructed by day and do nearly all private study at home, he proceeded to give details of last year's success. On the whole, the results obtained were 20 per cent. above the average obtained throughout this country, but the most remarkable results were obtatned in Mechanics, in which the whole class passed in the first class geometrical drawing, in which 25 passed out of 28 presented -and in advance physiography, in which seven were presented and six passed, and in practical plane and solid geometry, in which 32 passed out of 37. Appreciating remarks were also made regarding freehand, model, shading, chemistry, and element- ary physiography. In a school of this kind,there was practically no selection. All students must sit, to gain experience, if not to pass. The grant obtained was XI-16 against XC)3 last year. Proceeding, Mr. Duckworth spoke of the changes which frequently marked the regulations of the department. We were now threatened with a change in the payment of grants, (a change sound in principle, but the grant paid upon it quite inadequate), by which the school would be enabled to earn a grant ranging from a minimum of £ 23 to a maximum of £ 8S. He regarded this change with dismay. Further owing to the fact that the school met on Saturday morning, it would, under the new regulation, be considered a Day School, and would re- ceive only half the science grant that would be paid if it were an evening school. He further referred to the difficulty of making provision tor the instruction of pupil teachers in science and art in view of the changing require- ments of the Education Department, changes made without notice, and occasionally in the middle of the session. A few years ago, a scholarship student might obtain marks for one science and four art certificates, and there was no limitation of time. Five years ago, a regulation appeared that science certificates must be obtained during the 4th year of apprenticeship. This raised such protest that the Department extended the period to the 3rd as well as the 4th year. Next year while the subjects and years remained unchanged, the marks allotted to them were varied, and great weight was attached to the powers of a certificate in practical plane and solid geometry. Last year a fresh regulation appeared, limiting the science to the 4th year, and the art certificate (now reduced to ¡ one—freehand) to the 3rd and 4th year. Further changes are foreshadowed in this year's code. In consequence students who obtained shading', model, arc geometry, under the impression that they w o Lo count for scholarship, find themselves disappointed, and those who have already obtained freehand certificates must obtain them again. In this way, they had now a considerable number of students working at freehand with a view to sitting for an examination in which they had secured the highest success. He characterised these changing regulations as discouraging to the student, as causing much disappointment and loss of time. aad as a direct incentive to leave science and art mtll the last years, than which nothing could be rnoie conducive to hasty and unsystematic preparation, at a time, too, when this kind of training was more than ever necessary. Sir John J. Jenkins then distributed the prizes as follows :— SUCCESSES IN 1895. .5 +J ? ? f? ? 2* ? £ -3 ? Q g a JS O a £ S S ?  <v >s} ê "2 CJ ,g -? <* '5 £ 0 5 ? D ? ? s fr. ourt,h i ear:— David Evans 1 1 1 1 David Howells 1 1 2 2 ll'tary "V Griffiths. 1 1 2 WPRees 1 W T Ungoed. 1 2 Edith M Banks 2 2 2 Ann Tliom,s 1 2 2 Annie Morris 2 2 Lena Thomas 2 9 Emily Thomas 2 2 Joseph James 2 2 Annie Edmund3. 1 Gladys Griffiths 1 Jessie M Jones 2 Sarah J Phillips 2 Annie D Thomas. 2 .i Annie Vaughan 2 „ Fanny Wilson 2 Third Year:- Helena Jones 1 P Annie J Morgan 2 P 2 Blandina Mutter 1 2 John Davies n. 1 2 2 Thomas Nicholas 1 2 2 1 E E Coles 1 Alico Thomas 2 P Mary Walters 2 2 Daniel Thomas 2 2 A O Williams 2 2 Maggie Jones 2 James T John 2 Second Year:— Ellen Pllillips 1 P 1 2 William Jones 1 P 1 Hettie Thomas 2 P 1 R. K. Watts 2 P 1 Daniel Jas. Hughes.. 1 2 Agnes Henshall 1 P Bthel Williams 1 2 T'ffie Bailey 2 2 2 E?. Davies P 2 Abel Evans 2 2 Emily M illar 2 2 I Mabel Phillips 2 ( :li;:nas 2 W. J. Hughes 2 Ex-Siudents Laura Toplis 1 •» Sarah Davies 2 2 Margaret Evans 2 2 liliz, Hughes 1 SUCCESSES IN 1390. Physiography g) >> ? £ c ? b.e 5 ..dfê31.S a • A « o u .S i> C 0; w 0J Q & i s a .? ?!! ?!?M 0 S. Fourth Year  Ed M Banks 1 1 1 2 E R Coles 1 EdMBanka 2 1 1 t 2 ERColes 1 2 X JohnDavies 2 2 3 1 Annie J Morgan 1 2 2 2 Blandina Mutter 2 1 2 JOSL'DII James 1 1 2 Thomas Nicholas 1 1 1 Alice Thomas 2 2 Daniel Thomas 1 1 2 1 Annie Vaughan. 2 2:3 A 0 Williams 1 2 1 2 1 Fanny Wilson 1 2 2 Louisa Young 1 2 Third Year ;— Effie Bailey 1 2 2 2 M J Bassett 2 P W E Davies 2 1 1 2 Abel Evans 2 2 1 Agnes Hen shall X- 1 2 Sarah Ann Howell- P D J Hughes 1 1 2 W J Hughes 1 P Minnie Jones P William Jones 1- 1 2 Elsie McVicar P Emilv Miliar 2 2 M E Owen 2 Mabel Phillips 2 P Ellen Phillips 1 1 Myfamvy Roberts 2 Frances M Thomas2 P 2 I-lettie Thomas I 1 2 Ed K Thomas P Edgar W Thomas X-122. Ethel Williams P 1 1 R Ie Watts 1 2 1 Second Year:— Ernest Andrews X 2 LenaBaH 2 .?. D F Griffiths 2 P I Minnie Jenkins P Hattie Jennings I P 2 .? M K Johns 2 P 2 Hv Jiio Llewellyn 1 P Winnie Mutter 2 P Coralie Pascoe 2 P 2 2 Winnie Pugh P Mary L Rogers 2. 2 D M Roberts 1 1 1 X Edw Rowlands 2 P 1 Maggie Walters 2. P 2 First Year — Mary E Hallam P Gertie Hughes P 2 Ada John P Maggie Jones P 2 2 David H Jones ?.?.. 1 P 2 X  ¡(vrc:r i 1 Liz M Norman P F.Students Edwin Aubrey 2 John Clement 1. B M Dairies 2 2 .?. f£Ellnds Annie Edmunds 2 Gladys Griffiths 2 2 2 M W Griffiths 2. 2 David Howells 2 X 2 Elma V John 2 Annie Morris 2 1 2 1 Sarah J Phillips 2 W P Hees 2 2 1 H J Ridley :[.3. Emily Thomas 2 Laura Toplis 2 Lena Thomas 1 2 Ann Thomas 1 2 2 W T Ungoed 1. I I Sir John, having made the presentations, said that he considered it a great privilege to distribute the prizes to the successful candidates. He was of opinion that the centre had done a great deal of good since its establishment. It would, no doubt, interest the parents of the students present to hear what Mr. Duckworth had said in reference to the school. The students had applied themselves very carefully and skilfully to their work and had ac- quitted themselves very well. He was pleased to bear Mr. Duckworth speak of the satisfactory state of the centre and hoped the existing satisfactory condition of affairs would be maintained. He failed to understand why so many new regulations should be made year by year in the education code. He would, however, like to be coached by Mr. Duckworth, and then he would be able to ascertain what he could do in the matter, in bringing the ques- tion before parliament. In reference to the grant which had been mentioned in the master's report and J the remarks accompanying, he thought it would be j best to place the matter before the Department. Education, no doubt, was progressing in Llanelly very rapidly, and it was due largely to the interest taken in the work by the students ancl masters alike. He was pleased to notice that the Board took so keen an interest in the Cntre-an interest making 'for the real welfare of education in Llanelly. He had been, the previous evening, presenting students at Carmarthen with similar prizes, and, as the member for the constituency, he was bound to discharge a like duty at Llanelly the next night. He had been round the schools that day, and had found the scholars very attentive to their duties. One little boy was so interested in his work that he had fallen asleep (laughter) Great credit was due to Llanelly for the manner in which the Board and staff had carried out their duties. All had worked harmoniously together. They had actively engaged themselves in the duty, and carried it out most satis- factorily. It was a great responsibility for teachers of schools to educate scholars, and they, as the general public, should do all in their power to assist the teachers in their work. All would, no doubt, remember what Professor Herkomer said at the Llanelly National Eisteddfod—that they ought to attend to their duties most diligently and practice as much as possible. That was what they had to do. He hoped that the successful students would not rest satisfied witft whnt, thfiv ha.d alreadv dnnp. but that they would work to gain a still higher position. They had heard Mr. Duckworth say that last year's students would have to go through the same work again. Something ought to be done to the education code to rectify that matter. Major Bythway said that all would be thankful to Sir John for being present at the meeting. The centre had attained a high position, which was due largely to the School Board taking such an interest in it. Their chairman was the chairman of the Board and a good man be was (laughter and applause). The teachers, the successful students, and the parents of the students present, were no doubt all thankful to Sir John for giving his services that evening. He had visited the class very often and no one but those who had been in the middle of the work could state what was done there. He would like to impress upon the parents a matter of importance: that of sending their children regularly to school. He suggested to the Board the advisability of improv- ing the lighting of the building in which the work of the centre was carried on. He proposed a vote of thanks to Sir John for being present that evening. Rev. T. Johns seconded the proposition, and said that Sir John had made a great effort to be present at the meeting, having left his duties in London to be present (cheers). Mr. B. B. Scorrou, the science and art inspector, said that he had been in Llanelly for some time q,iid had visited the centre. He was highly pleased with the results the school had attained. He felt pleased with what had been said about the centre, and he was also pleased with what he had seen there himself. He supported the vote of thanks. Mr. H. Wilkins, the ex-chairman of the School Board, said that he appreciated the opportunity of speaking on sucn an occasion. He worked hard in favour of the establishment of the centre, and they had reason to be proud of it. He believed 1 also that the Board had done an excellent thing in appointing Miss Palmer as assistant teacher for the school. They would now have an efficient staff of teachers, and the school would go on still better in the future. There was one thing to which he would like to draw the attention of parents: that of sending their children to school regularly. Rev. Elvet Lewis said it gave him very great pleasure to be present at the meeting, anclremarked that he would like the students to feel that they had yet a higher position to gain. A great re- sponsibility rested upon the students as well as upon the teachers, and he hoped they would recog- nise that responsibility. The central class had done excellent work in the past, as would be seen from the results, and he trusted there was still a brighter future in front. The vote of thanks to Sir John was then carried. Sir J. J. Jenkins, in responding, thanked all for their kind remarks and proposed a vote of thanks to the chairman. Mr. J. A. Williams seconded aud referred to the good qualities of the chairman. The Chairman suitably responded. Letters of apology were received from Mr. T. Jones, H.M.I., Mr. J. E. Jones, and Mr. R. J. Edmunds. Choruses were delivered by students of the centre and a pianoforte duet was given by Miss Mutter and Miss Pascoe.

ST. DAVID'S DAY IN DURBAN. I AN ENTHUSIASTIC CELEBRATION. TO THE EDITOR. I 562, SMITH STREET, DURBAN, March 2nd, 1897. DEAR SIR,—I herewith send you an account (which may interest your readers) of the proceed- ings connected with the banquet held under the auspices of the Durban Cambrian Society. Though the Welsh element here in Durban is not ?' yet that is counter- numerically, very strong, yet that is counter- balanced by the patriotism possessing those who are fortunate enough to call themselves Welshmen. Those who have the matter in hand are hoping, as soon as they can see their way clear, to hold an Eisteddfod in Durban on a large scale. To make the undertaking a complete success, the co-operation of all Welshmen in South Africa is needed, and this, we are sure, will be readily given. Trusting that I have not taken up too much of your time, I remain, yours faithfully, E. KIRKBY. The representatives of "gallant little Wales" resident in Durban dined together at the Princess Cafe last night in celebration of St. David's Day. A few of the more patriotic Welshmen who have taken up their residence here felt that some effort should be made to celebrate the anniversary of their patron saint in a fitting manner, and mainly through the exertions of Mr. R. Ellis Jones the dinner was arranged. He was assisted by a committee composed of Messrs. J P. Mumford, Rev. J. 1. John Jones, J. E. Evans, J. Richards, W. Davies, and T. W. Francis. The attendance at last night's gathering numbered about 20, over a dozen of whom were natives of Wales. Mr. J. P. Mumford presided, and Mr. J. F. King was vice- chairman. The toast of the Queen was given from the chair. Mr. Ellis Jones proposed The Prince aod Princess of Wales," and Mr. Fred Jones gave The Governor, Sir Walter Hely-Hutchinson." A telegram was received from the Cambrian Society at Capetown, which had been sent in Welsh. The English translation was given as Wales for ever. Stick to it" (applause). The Chairman proposed the toast of St. David, our Patron Saint," the anniversary of whom they were met that night to commemorate. They could claim St. David to have been a thorough Welsh- man, as having been born, lived, worked, and died in Wales (applause). Mr. Griffiths W. Humphreys gave Wales, the land of our fathers." As an illustration of the pluckiness of the Welsh, he instanced the methods they adopted to drive out the French on their landing in Pembrokeshire in 1797. Mr. T. W. Francis proposed the further success of the "South African Eisteddfod." The Chairman, in reply, said when the South African Eisteddfod was started, about five years ago, it was pretty well pooh-poohed, inasmuch as people were all sure that it would not succeed, owing to the difficulties in the way. Consequently, it had to be started by a single individual, without a penny-piece of guarantee. He (the speaker) had started the Eisteddfod, and it was his intention to see it through until it had been established throughout the length and breadth of South Africa as in Wales. Mr. T. N. Hughes proposed the "Visitors," but dealt chiefly with the land of Wales in his speech. He resented the imputation that Wales was in England. Wales had a separate nationality Its people were the best commercial and best educated people in the world, and they were the most industrious. They had the greenest fields and greenest lanes, and the most lovely women in the four countries. In the battle field Wales had never yielded. The Romans who conquered the world had to stop short at Wales, They wanted to be treated as a distinct people from England, and they ought to be represented on the national flag. Mr. J. King gave the toast of The land we live in." He stated that he had been in the country about 20 years, and believed there was every opportunity for young men to get on in this country. Mr. Ellis Jones gave the toast of the "Durban Cambrian Society," whic ,he remarked, was as yet a myth, there being no such thing in existence. He hoped," however, that the society would be in existence within the next three weeks. (Applause). He had been made secretary without an election, if he retained the office, he would leave no stone unturned until the society had become thoroughly organised. The objects of the society would be to hold out a helping hand to their fellow-countrymen who happened to land here without sufficient capital, and also to arrange a series of social and musical evenings. He thought there was sufficient material in Durban to organise auch an assooiation, and although he was sorry to say that Welshmen in Durban were not in unity at present, he hoped this would soon be overcome. (Applause). Other toasts were the Press," proposed by Mr. J. E. Evans, the Ladies," by Mr. W. Davies, and the Chairman and Secretary," by Mr. Williams. Songs were contributed by Messrs. T. W. Francis, J. Richards, J. King, J. E. Evans, R. Ellis Jones and Lovesey (pianist). The proceedings concluded with the singing of God Save the Queen."

The price of ALLCOCK'S PLASTERS concerns you, SO PLEASE NOTE. They are iiow to be had of all dealers at 7d. EACH. When you ask for a porous plaster see you get ALLCOCK'S. Take no other.

THE PROPOSED FAIR FOR PONTYEATES. A MEETING OF RATEPAYERS. A meeting of the Committee of the above fair was held on Monday evening last at the Bridge End Inn, Pontyeates. Amongst others present were Messrs. Thomas Gravell, Plasbach, (chairman), John Davies, Ynysfawr, David Thomas, J. Job, Dyffryti Farm, G. Roberts, grocer and draper, W. Jones, Herberdy Farm, David Evans, Edward Jones, Gellyglynog Farm, Isaac Jones, Macnamara, Thomas Rowlands, Herbert Walters, Gwndwnbach, William White, Councillor, and Gomer Davies, together with the honorary secretary, David Davies, Caercanvas. Councillor Gomer Davies, Contractor, was first called upon to address the meeting and said he was sorry to see such a small number of farmers present. Surely this fair was to their advantage. They needed parish meetings to be held more oftener to discuss matters relating to the parish. Too many of them seemed quite contented to know that, that they were farmers, paying rates and taxes but caring not to make enquiries bow or where the money was spent. He would suggest that a Debating Society be established in the place and their parliamentary representatives invited to be present. They had a railway in the valley since 1871; this, however, could not carry passengers. He hoped the farmers and others would be alive to their duties, and not be satisfied as Parcels." He hoped one and all would do their utmost to make the approaching fair a complete success (loud cheers), Mr. David Davies quite agreed with the sentiments of the last speaker, and dwelt further upon the necess- ity of light railways. Mr. Herbert Walters promised to do all in his power to make the fair a success. The Chairman also addressed the meeting, and said the Land Commissioners in their report recommended light railways. He quite agreed with Councillor Davies that we should hold meetings of this kind oftener. We had a Post Office here in name, and name only, as it was not a Money Order Office, nor Telegraph Office. He hoped this fair would be the first of a series of improvements in the valley. Messrs. David Thomas and George Roberts also spoke. Altogether, the meeting was a very interesting and enthusiastic one. The following were selected to distribute the posters: Daniel Thomas, (butcher), Councillor Davies, George Roberts, W. Jones (Herberdeg), W. White and the Chairman. After the usual vote of thanks the meeting terminated. The next meeting will be held on Monday evening, April 12th, at the Gwendraeth Arms, when all inter- ested are cordially invited to attend.

DISTRICT NEWS. BURRY PORT. CRICKET CLUB.—A meeting of the above club was held at the Cambrian Hotel, on Tuesday of last week, a large number of the old members were present, Mr. D. C. Phillips was unanimously elected sec. this year again, SPORTs.-Regatta and rustic sports will be held this year again at Burry Port on Bank holiday in August. A magnificent programme will be prepare.

HOMOCEA 11 TOUCHES THE SPOT." and soothes the aching part. Use for Chaps and Chilblains, Sore Throat, Face Ache, all Aches and Pains,. Piles and Eczema.

THE UNITED SCHOOLS' GRAND CONCERT. PICTURESQUE EVENTS AT THE MARKET HALL. The long-looked and much-hoped for concert under the auspices of the Charities of the N. U.T. was given at the Market Hall on Monday evening last by the scholars in attendance at the elementary schools of Llanelly and district. It was an event unique' in the history of the town. Interesting, picturesque and I entertaining, the concert was a splendid success throughout, reflecting the highest credit upon all engaged in its promotion, aud, in particular, the teaching staff of the various schools represented on the occasion. We imagine that the feeling of the immense audience that occupied on Monday evening every inch of the Market Hall, excepting the capacious platform, is fitly expressed in the statement herewith embodied that the impression left by the wonderful performance exhausted itself in ad- miration of the stupendous labour which the concert must have imposed upon the teaching staff at the various schools from which the children taking part were drafted. This, at any rate, was the thought which occupied the writer's mind almost to the exclusion of all others. So far as the teachers, head and assistant are concerned, the concert, un- doubtedly, represented a magnificent effort. We con- gratulate them upon it—not the congratulation of con- ventional and surface courtesy, but that which is sincere and comes straight from the heart. Scarcely anything need be said in commendation of the charities which charged the promoters with the courage, the devotion and the ingenuity needful to guarantee the success of the event. The Charities of the N.U.T. commend themselves. That they find in the hearts of the Llanelly teaching fraternity an affection warm and deepseated is abundantly proved in the self-sacrificing exertions which culminated in the splendid spectacle presented on the plat- form of the Minor Market Hall on Monday evening. The event-which was repeated with equal success on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings—represented boundless resource, work and ingenuity. The training of the children, vocally and physically, the preparation of the dresses, the disposi- tion of the scholars in the hall, and the hundred and one details hidden away behind the event must have entailed an enormous amount of work, which was faultlessly accomplished. The Market Hall on the occasion was transformed into a veritable fairy palace. Occupying the remoter section of the immense platform, and accommodated on perfectly adjusted tiers, was the united schools choir of about live hundred voices. The platform itself, artistically arranged and as artistically decorated, with its weight of boys and girls in their best clothes and their best smiles, presented a highly picturesque spectacle, which was in keeping with the general decoration of the hall. Ever and anon the normal animation of the platform was heightened by i the appearance of groups of children entrusted with special physical or vocal performances, the interest of the immense audience being uninterruptedly rivetted as the procession of the programme passed over the stage. The opening item was that of a united rendering the charming Welsh lullaby, 11 Roedd Main ali Babaii bach yn Cysgu by the choir. After this an interlude. The curtain fell and the audience were kept to rumin- ate on the character of the spectacle to follow. In due time the platform was disclosed to view, and a hundred or more sweetly-attired infants formed a semi-circle in front of the general body of choralists- It was a charming sight, of which the audience gave very definite tokens of their admiration, The infant choir, with infantile graces, sang Mae'r ceiliog wedi canu with a strenuousness of voice and movement that evoked loud applause. A representative joint choir of the Higher Grade and National Schoals followed with a most creditable rendering of the part song, Sleigh Bells." Then came physical exercises by the girls. Although the exercises occupied a consider- able portion of the evening, the interest and admira- tion of the audience did not for a moment flag. The movements and the counter movements and the drill generally, were splendidly performed, winning golden encomiums all round. The Infant Choir again ap- peared and gave a bewitching rendering of the action song, Tit Willow." This was one of the most inter- esting and entertaining items of the programme and fairly brought down the house. The first part of the programme was brought to a close with the action song "The British Flag" by scholars representing Lakefield, Park-street, and Market-street Schools. Much vigour, vocal and physical, was thrown iatothe rendering, the waving and twisting of the coloured flags making an interesting and picturesque adjunct of the effort. The glee, "The Gipsies' laughing trio," by scholars from the Cepperworks, New Dock, Mach- ynys. and Bigyn Schools, was excellently rendered and evoked the enthusiastic plaudits of the audience, nor did the action song, Little Helpers," by the Infant Choir receive a less favourable reception. The infants, indeed, were great favourites with the audience throughout, their tiny figures, charmingly dressed, their powerful voices and innocent ways taking all hearts captive. The part song, The Flag of Old England," by the United Choir, was exceedingly well given, and this was followed by an ambitious effort in spectacluar effect, entitled "Fairy Circles," given by contingents from the Old Road, Felinfoel, and Dafen Schools. Then came the military drill of the boys, under the generalship of Sergt. Samuel, who was gor- geously attired in the uniform of the Pembrokeshire Yeomanry. The drill was magnificently gone through, the precision and exactitude of every move- ment and combination-and the combinations were marvellous to a degree-being excellent, and evoking the heartiest plaudits of the audience. The programme concluded with the most elaborate effort of all. It comprehended a series of patriotic choruses (in charac- ter) representing England, Wales, Ireland, and Scot- land. In the centre stood Britannia, robed in white, wearing a silver crown and holding a golden trident. In turn the representatives of each nation marched on to the platform singing their own patriotic chorus, and the general choir joining in the refrain. The effect was thrilling to a degree, an effect which was enhanced and heightened by the exquisite representative costumes worn by the respective groups and which had been made by the deft lingers of the capable lady teachers of the town. When all the groups had appeared, artistically disposed around Britannia, with the great chorus as a back-ground, the effect was thrilling. Before leaving the platform, the chorus and groups joined in singing God save the Queen," This concluded a unique event in the history of the town. The chairman on Monday evening was Mr. H. J. Howell, chairman of the School Board, and on Tuesday evening, M r. T. Jones, H.M.I.S. The conductor was Mr. R, C. Jenkins, R.A.M., the accompanist, Mr. Luther Owen, and the drill instruct- or, Sergeant Samuel, to each of whom the greatest praise is due.

ASHBURNHAM GOLF CLUB. I A VICTORY OVER PORTHCAWL. I A match was played on the Ashburnham Links on Saturday between Mr. H. C. Vivian's Porthcawl team and the Ashburnham Club, with the following I result:— ASHBURNHAM CLUB. MR. VIVIAN'S TEAM. Holes. Holes. D. E. Stephens. 3 O. R. Vivian. 0 E. Trubslmw. 0 W. Dowle Jones 3 W. S. Marsh 4 W. Gellibrand 0 W. W. Brodie 0 H. C. Vivian. 6 W. D. Rock 0 C. H. Bird. 2 W. B. Roderick 0 J. F. Grimes. 2 F. N. Powell. 5 Lewis Jenkins 0 J. H. Gale 7 W. Pritchard 0 F. Bond. 1 F. H. Anderson 0 D. L. Joseph. 8 H. G. Thomas 0 O. G. Jones. 2 W. Pyman. 0 E. R. Hughes. 4 R. S. Seymour 0 24 13 Asbburnham, 21 holes up.

THOSE WHO LABOUR. By GEORGE H. WOOD. I mentioned, last week, the 1896 report on changes in wages and hours of labour. This week the Report on Trade Dis- putes in 1896 (preliminary figures) is presented. The labour horizon was very cloudy during last year, the number of disputes being 1037 as compared with 876 in 1895; but the number affected was less than in any of the seven previous years, being 199,600 in 1896, as compared with 263,758 in 1895, 324,245, in 1894, aud 638,386 in 1893." The building trades increased the number of those affected by their disputes last year greatly, but all other trades decreased theirs. We know that wages have been rising in the building trades: this is evidently the outcome of judicious strikes. A great feature in the disputes of last year was the large number of people concerned in disputes which were successful as compared with the two years previous. A good table) standing over eight years, is given in the report. This table shows the percentage of strikes 11 Suc- cessful," Partially Successful," "U nsuccess- ful," and Results not definite or not known." It says well for the efficiency of our labour department that the last division is only a decimal in magnitude. Comparing last year with some years previous, we find that the number per cent. unsuccessful has only beeit equalled twice in seven years. Last year's percentage was 34-4; in 1891, 34'8; in 1894, 42-1. In 1889 and 1893, however, the percent- age was only 12'0 and 12'1 respectively. Turning to the partially successful years, we find that 1896 was the lowest of the whole given, save two. In 1896 the percentage of those partially successful was 25'6, in 1893, 24.7; in 1890, 16-8. The highest percentage was that of 1889, when it reached, 56-2; the next highest was 1892, with 51-4 per cent. Turning again to the most important case ef all, the case in which complete success was obtained, we find that the highest was obtained in 1893, when 62 9 per cent. of the persons engaged were entirely successful. Of course, the great Scotch coal strike had a large influ- ence in determining these numbers. Bid; nevertheless, only once beside has the percent- age of persons completely suceessful been above that of 1896, and that was in 1890, when 54'4 were successful. What then are the conditions of success ? Emphatically, rising prices. If I read my facts aright, in 1890, and in 1893, but mere especially in the former year, the rising prices brought a more regular employment, and a great lessen- ing of the unemployed. The work provided for the men told then that trade was brisk and accordingly advances were asked for-and obtained. During last year, the total unem- ployed of the Trade Unionists of: the country kept fairly stable at about 3'5 per cent., thus increased power was given to those employed to demand higher wages. The proportion of successful strikes as compared with those of other years shows the result. It seems by this, as if the contention of the Bi-metallists, that given rising prices, employ- ment would be more regular and wages would rise. 1890 and 1896 point most unmistakeably to this conclusion. An attempt was made in 1889 to palliate the silver trouble. Its price rose, exchanges rose, exployment became more general, the total percentage unemployed being about 2 5, and wages rose, so that 54'4 per cent, of those demanding higher wages obtained them. If, in 1896, we have had no settlement of the silver trouble, we have had an inevitable, reaction after the depressed trade of 1894, and this reaction has brought advances in its train to many. Would that advances could come te those who, I am afraid, more urgently need them!

THE PROPOSED STOP-WEEK IN THE TIN TRADE. VIEWS OF MANUFACTURERS. I One of our representatives writes :—The sanction j given by the Council of the Tinplate Workers'UnioO ) to a stop-week in May, designed for the purpose et depleting stocks and improving the market, has been much canvassed in Llanelly. I have been i* conversation with a gentleman entitled to speak 1 with some authority on the attitude of the masters to the proposal, and from what he stated I am afraid that employers do not receive the proposal with favour. He conceded thatif in May trade was still further depressed and orders had vanished, the manufacturers engaged in the trade, himself among the number, would no doubt acoept the recommell- J dation of the men. But everything hinged on the condition of the order books. If we have enough |J to keep us going we shall continue working, and I I confidently expect that under those conditions the I operatives will stick to their work and ignore the [ recommendation of their Council. 1

LOCAL FOOTBALL MATCHES. 1 I LLAXBLLY v. NEATH.—This match was played I at Neath on Saturday in good weather. The only I disadvantage was a strong wind. A special traio I was run from Llanelly and a large number of scarlet enthusiasts accompanied their favourites. The teams wers as follows Neath Back, Brooks; three-quarter backs, Bill Jones, H. Jones, J. Rees, I and C. Powell; half-backs, W. J. Williams and T. I Hopkins forwards, Jim Reynolds (captain), M. Reynolds, T. Thomas, S. Davies, D. Evans, E. Vigors, Johnson, and J. Linnard. Llanelly Back. Joe Davies; three-quarter backs, M. WilliamS, Badger, Evan Lloyd and M. Bevan; half-backs, Ben Davies and D. Davies; forwards, W. Morris, D. J. Daniels, Steve Thomas, W. J. Thomas, P. J- Davies, and D. E. Griffiths. Referee: Mr. Tea Thorogood, Swansea. In the first half not a point was scored. After changing euds, Llanelly quickly asserted their superiority and Daniels scored- This was the only point registered and Llanelly therefore won by a try to nil. LLANG-ENNECJH V. KIDWELLY (CUP-TIE).—TBI* match was played at Stradey on Saturday last- Both teams were strongly represented. Early In the first half Llangennech shewed that they Bad more combination than their opponents. However Kidwelly played up pluckily until half-time was called. During the second half some fine passing was witnessed on the Llangennech side, try after try being scored in rapid succession. Kidwelly did all in their power to avert disaster, but of no avail* Their defence was very weak and could be easily jj got through. The final score was: Ilangennech, 3 aroals. 5 Kidwellv. nil. c' 1 I MOEFA EANGEBS v. BURRY PORif (CUP-TIE>-7 These teams also tried conclusions on Saturday at; Stradey. Both teams had been in hard training I for the encounter. The Rangers were seen to I better advantage all through the first half and, hardly gave their opponents a look in. In the ( second half matters went against Burry Port and try as they would they could not get through the i defence of the Rangers. Final score: Rangers, I goal, 2 tries Burry Port, nil. CAMBBIAN (LLANELLY) V. MARITIME (BURB^ j POET).—This match was played at Burry Port 011 Saturday. The game was of a rough and uninterest' I ing character. However, the Cambrian had the best of matters all through and ran out winners by 2 goals, 1 try, to nil. t

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