The South Wales Star

CARDIFF HARLEQUINS v. BRIDGEND. This match came off on Saturday last, before a goodly number of spectators. The ground was in splendid condition. The home team was fairly represented. The Harlequins kicked off, and the ball was well returned. Play settled down in the centre for a while. The 'Quins, coming off with a rush, drove the leather over the line. Emery touched down. After the kick-out the 'Quins again came off with a rush in front of the home goal. Soon after another minor was scored. After the kick the game became very fast and open, the home team showing good tackling powers, Emery and Gregory being prominent. A number of scrums was formed on the centre. A flying kick from Keepings took the ball to the home 25. For off-side play the homesters claimed a free kick, Emery sending the ball into touch. Williams again tried to get in, but was collared by Emery near the line. Hardwick subse- quently took the ball well into the 'Quins 25. Again the 'Quins made a dribble, James, the home three-quarter, being injured. A. L. Davies ran in, Rooney attempting to collar him. The home team appealed to the referee to stop the play, but the try was allowed. The home team now played a man short. From the kick-out play was in the visitors' half. Keepings ran and kicked well into i; the home 25, Bryant returning well into touch. At half-time the game stood-Harlequins, one goal one try three minors-Bridgend-nil. The teams having changed ends, James set the ball in motion and was well returned by Bowen. Bridgend failed to return at this point. Cuss was now in- jured, Bridgend thus playing two men short. The visitors secured another try by Owens, which Keepings converted. Play of somewhat rough and tumble character ensued. Coles took the leather to the home 25. Ivor James, dribbling up, drove the leather over the line, Bowen touching' down. Keepings kicked out. Play settled down -in the home 25. Soon after the 'Quins scored another minor, and this was fol- lowed by a try by Keepings, which he converted. Goss followed with the next try, but it was not improved. A. L. Davies picked up from half-way, and passed to Alexander, who got over. Keepings converted. Final score Harlequins, five goals three tries and seven minors Bridgend, one minor. The Harlequins were represented by J. H. Brown, back J. Keepings, D. E. Nicholls, W. Keepings, and H. R. Williams, three-quarters J. E. Alexander and A. L. Davies, half-backs R. Bennett, H. Roderick. C. W. Nicholls, W. Phillips. J. Smith, D. R. Goss, D. R. Coles, and D. Owen, forwards. Bridgend J. Bryant, back E. Emery (captain), B. Gregory, H. James, and J. Richards, three-quarters W. Hardwick and J. James, half- backs; G. Verity, C. James, Davies, Culliford, T. Enos, A. Williams, II. Thomas, and T. Thomas, forwards.

BARRY RAILWAY CLERKS v. CARDIFF RANGERS. This match, which was to have taken place on Saturday last, did not come off owing to the Rangers team not turning up. j

PENARTH v. PENYGRAIG. This match was played at Penarth before a fair number of spectators on Saturday last. The ground was in splendid condition. Penarth kicked off, and at once rushed the ball into the visitors' quarters. Penygraig retaliated, and some tight play ensued in the centre. Kirby, receiving the ball from a scrum, made a good run and secured the first try. Coslett failed at goal. Penarth kept up the advantage they had 'gained, and exciting play took place at half-way. At the interval the score was Penarth, one try Penygraig, nil. After changing ends the visitors' played up well, and some long kicking resulted in a minor being credited to them. Penarth obtained a free for breach of rules, but nothing resulted. Some smart touch line play took place, and, after some neat passing, Garrett got in between the posts. The kick at goal failed. Directly afterwards Garrett made another good run, but was brought down within a foot of the line. Tough scrimmaging followed, but the visitors succeeded in getting the ball away to the centre. Time was then called, the score being :—Penarth, 2 tries Penygraig, 1 minor.

ASSOCIATION GAME AT WENVOE. On Saturday last Mr. George Sadler's and Mr. Fred Barnicoat's association teams met in friendly rivalry. A very interesting and exciting match was played. Soon after the kick-off a goal was shot by Mr. Jenkin against Barnicoat, but it was disallowed, Jenkin being off-side. However, before half-time was called, Sadler managed to pass the backs, and had a fine run down the field and scored. During the second half several runs were made by both sides, but no more goals were shot.

LAST WEEKS' SHIPMENTS. —The shipments of coal and coke at Barry Dock for six days, ending Saturday'last, amounted to 66,575 tons 7 cwt.—This was shipped on board 37 steamers and 13 sailing vessels total—50. The imports during the week con- sisted 100 casks of cement, 88 tons of slate, and 1,000 tons of pitwood. The number of vessels in dock on Monday morning last was 59—30 steamers and 29 sail- ing vessels.

CORRESPONDENCE. All communications for publication must be addressed, The Editor, 'TUK SOUTH WALKS ST.Ut,' Undoxton, near Cardiff, and must reach the Editor not later than Thursday morning. All communications must be written on one sille of the paper only, and the full name and address of the writer must be enclosed, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of good faith. TIEN WLADWR" (Porthcawl).-Many thanks for your letter. We hope to deserve the good things you say of us. H. T. J. (Cheltenham).-Your letter is premature. J. S. (Wenvoe).—We are much obliged. T. J. (Porthcawl).—We hope to hear again from you. J. D. (Nantymoel).-Your stanza will see light next week.

PROPOSED INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL FOR BARRY. TO THE EDITOR OF THE SOUTH WALES STAR. Sir,—A semi-private meeting has been held at East Barry for the purpose of considering the In- termediate School question. It does not appear to have been at all unanimous, and many leading townsmen were conspicuous by their absence. The irresponsible young gentlemen who appear to be the chief promoters must be credited with having taken great pains and done their best to shew tmt< tide of the question. But alteram partem can scarcely be said to have been followed, and it does not look well for a cause if it cannot even listen to criticism. It is well that the unfor- tunate ratepayers should have an opportunity of hearing the other side. Those few who dared: to ask questions at the meeting could get no answers. Well, then, sir, the long and short of it is. that the people who will take advantage of the scheme in Barry are those who are well able to pay for their children's education, and who ought to be ashamed to ask the poor ratepayers to provide that education. I appeal to the great power of the Press to guide us in this matter, and not to leave us solely to County Councilism and cheap popularity. Suppose as an alternative scheme that two or three really good schools were founded in Wales, and that those children of working people who really shewed promise at the Board Schools should be assisted to attend these schools, care being taken to see that the parents were really not in a position to send them themselves, I think we should then have a scheme that would recommend itself to every right-minded person, and we should have some guarantee that the proper class benefited by the schools.-I am, Sir. yours &c., East Barry. PATERFAMILIAS.

-♦ BARRY TRAIN SERVICE. TO THE EDITOR OF THE SOUTH WALES STAR. SIR, —Last Sunday afternoon I waited ten minutes in Cadoxton Station for the 6.17 p.m. train to Barry. The day was very cold and bleak; during the afternoon it had been snowing, but there was no fire in the waiting room. I looked into the booking-office, and saw a porter sitting by a big piled-up fire, whilst I and four or five other passengers shivered outside. Just before the train was due I went down the sub-way to reaoh the down platform, only to find the gate on the other side locked. I accordingly had to come back and cross the rails. On week- days the porters are very officious in sending back anyone whom they see attempting to cross the lines, but on Sunday, apparently, they are equally determined to prevent anyone using the sub-way. Under the most favourable circumstances Cadoxton Station is not a pleasant spot, but I feel sure that the chief officials of the Barry Company are not aware of the discomfort and annoyance to which passengers are subjected. I hope, sir. you will use your influence to improve matters.—Yours, fcc., A TRAVELLER. +.

A PLEA FOR A DISTRESSFUL GIPSY. TO THE EDITOR OF THE SOUTH WALES STAR. SIR, —On the day of the great snowstorm (March 9) a gipsy—one of the numerous gipsy class—named Price, pitched his caravan in a road near this village. The caravan, containing the gipsy's family, was drawn by two not very old horses. One of these succumbed to the- severity of that long-to-be-remembered piercing wintry night, and last night saw the last of its companion. The caravan is now stranded in the middle of a deep snowdrift, and the gipsy is horse- less and powerless. Any contributions towards purchasing a new horse for the gipsy will be thankfully received and acknowled by me.—I am. &c., W. WARE HARRIES, Rector of St. Bride's-super-Ely, Cardiff.

PROPOSED JUNIOR LIBERAL ASSOCIATIONS. TO THE EDITOR OF THE SOUTH WALES STAR. SIR, —Now that a Liberal paper for South Glamorgan has made its appearance, may I be allowed to suggest through the medium of its columns the many advantages which would accrue to the division by the formation of one or more junior Liberal associations. The old associations are far too inactive. A short correspondence appeared in the Jiarry Journal some little, time back, and although it drew forth a few effusions from the pens of junior Liberals in the district, yet nothing substantial resulted. It was, however, suggested at the time that a good commencement would be effected if associations were started at Barry, Penygraig, and Cowbridge, and the Vale of Glamorgan. The associations would be of incal- culable use to Mr. Arthur J. Williams, M.P., our popular member. I hope, sir, that you will see your way clear to render some little assistance to the movement.—I am, &c., YOUNG RADICAL. Cadoxton, March 18, 1891.

HOW THEY WORSHIP IN THE VALE. CARMEL, BONVILSTON. Carmel Independent Church may be regarded as a branch of the Taihirion Church, and it was established in 1833. The following persons left the mother church in the year named in order to erect an altar at Bonvilston, their home :— Benjamin John and Mary, his wife Lewis Davies and Ann, his wife James Williams and his sister and a Mrs. Jenkins. At first prayer meetings were held in a stable attached to the Old Post Inn, but ere long the little church made its head- quarters in a shed fixed upon Llantrithyd Park. While worshipping in the shed it is said that the little flock had many a prayer meeting of which it could truly be said, Dyma gyfarfod hyfryd iawn, lUyfi yn llwm, a'r Iesu'n llawn." The members felt they were few and weak, but they also felt that they were the sons and daughters of the King of Kings, and that the shed in which they worshipped was not worthy of their Father. They, therefore, cast about for land whereon to build a temple. As a rule, Noncon- formists are not particular favourites with land- owners in our days, but 60 years ago they were much less so than now, and it was then exceed- ingly difficult to obtain land for chapel-building purposes. The little church at Bonvilston ex- perienced this difficulty, but at last succeeded in obtaining land of Mr. Thomas Williams, Newton, Cowbridge. In May, 1834, a piece of land, measuring 23 yards by 9 yards, was granted the little church, under a lease for 999 years, for an annual rent of one shilling. The lease provides that only the healthful truths of the Gospel are to be preached in the chapel, and should the church ever neglect to administer Holy Communion for six months the lease is to be forfeited. The old chapel measured 32ft. by 24ft. In November, 1860, Mr. J. S. Gibbon, Newton, granted an additional piece of land, and the church utilised it to extend the graveyard and build a stable. which cost t:9 10s. 6d. In 1862 the chapel was repaired and painted at considerable cost, and in 1877 it was re-built, at a cost of £318 Os. 7d., and when it is said that C178 Os. 7d. was paid on the day of opening the new chapel it will be seen that the people of Carmel have a heart to work. They have to-day one of the handsomest edifices in the vale, and, to their credit be it said, there is not a penny of debt upon it. MINISTERS PAST AND PRESENT. One Benjamin Thomas acted as minister for a short time, but, strictly speaking, the first minister who had charge of Carmel was the Rev. John Davies. Llantrisant. Mr. Da vies was minister of Bethel in that town, and in 1835 he undertook the pastorate of Carmel as well. His ministry was successful, but in 1837 he accepted a call from an Aberdare Church. The next minister was Mr. Daniel Jenes, of Llanboidy School. His ministry was. successful for a time, but in 1840 he removed to Bethesda, Merthyr. Mr. Jones was succeeded in 1841 by Mr. Rees Evans, of Penwaun School. Mr. Evans laboured under the great disadvantage of a delicate constitution, and in 1847 he left for America, without having achieved much at Carmel. In 1850 Providence led a man named James Thomas to the neighbourhood of Bonvilston. He hailed from Bwlchnewydd. Carmarthenshire, and was 34 years of age. He was only an agricultural labourer, but it was evident that he bore the impress of the Stamp arddelir ddydd a ddaw." He joined the Church at Carmel, and soon proved a host in himself at the prayer meetings. James Thomas did not solicit, but won the affection of the Carmel people, and on April 21. 1853, a union was formed that was only dissolved by death on September 11, 1879. James Thomas was God's man indeed. He did good by stealth, and his numerous admirers will never know of all the good he did till the day when God shall bring all work into judgment. The great bard said that The evil that men do lives after them The good is oft interred with their bones. Not so with '• Esgob y Fro." As far as the world could see, he was like his Master, in whom no guile was found, and the good he did bears fruit to 1 9 this day. and will continue to do so for many years to come. Mr. Thomas was not a great preacher in the popular sense of the word. but he was more—he was great at prayer, and his ser- vices were always in request to introduce anniversary meetings. On April 21, 1874— -21 years after his marriage with the church- the members and congregation presented Mr. Thomas with a purse, containing J':55, as a small acknowledgment of their great indebtedness to him. Mr. Thomas's grave at Carmel is adorned by a very beautiful monument, with the following epitaph upon it, composed by the late Dewi Wyn 0 Essyllt — Gwaitli oes—pregethwr rhad-gweddiwr Ddygai Dduw i'r teimlad Oedd JAMES THOMAS —mwynwas mad, A gwr oedd lawn o gariad. Yng nghyflwr gweithiwr pregethodd-y Gair, A gwych y llafuriodd Is ei goron nes gwywodd, A'i waith fu wrth ei fodd." In January, 1880, the present esteemed and able pastor of Carmel, the Rev. William Edgar Evans. visited Carmel and Nurston Churches, on behalf of Bala Congregational College, of which institution he was a distinguished student. It did not take the principal and tutors of the college long to dis- cover that Mr. Evans possessed much more than ordinary abilities to convey instruction to others, and whenever they required assistance in their tutorial duties they appealed to Mr. Evans for it. Carmel and Nurston Churches fell in love with Mr. Evans, and they gave him a unanimous and united call to become their minister. The rev. gentleman was ordained and installed into office on September 29. 1880, and there Mr. Evans has remained ever since, deep in the love and respect of his churches and congregations, and it is no exaggeration to say that he is universally esteemed r,9 throughout the Yale of Glamorgan. The churches showed their appreciation of their minister's services on June 11. 1884, by presenting him with a magnificent bookcase. Mr. Evans married Miss ',N el Morgan, eldest daughter of the genial and popular bard. loan Trithyd. a few years ago, and no one who knows Mr. and Mrs. Evans will for a moment think they have transgressed the apostle's com- mandment. "Na iauer chwi yn anghymharus." (To be eont tutted.)

CHURCH WORK IN THE BARRY DISTRICT. PROPOSED IRON BUILDING FOR HOLTON. A meeting to consider the steps to be taken for the erection of an Iron Church near the Central Police-station, to serve the Barry Dock portion of Cadoxton parish, was held in the St. Paul's Mission- room, Holton, last evening week. the rector (the Rev. E. Morris) presiding. It was resolved that those present form a provisional committee, of which Mr. Sprent, National Provincial Bank, Barry Dock, was elected hon. treasurer and Mr. Arnold. Post Office, Barry Dock. hon. secretary. Among those present were the following :—Rev. J. Price (Barry Dock), Rev. A. E. Couch, Messrs. R. A. Sprent, T. Martin, T. Bray, W. Conibear, and W. Arnold. An encouraging start has been made. the Bishop of LlandafFs Fund having promised a grant of .UOO; Major-General Lee a subscription of £ 25 Rev. E. Daniel, of Sully, t 5 and Mr. Sprent, £ 1 Is. The Bishop of Llandaffs Fund has also voted a grant of £ 30 towards a curate's stipend and the application of the rector is now before the committee of the Additional Curates' Aid Society :or a further grant towards the support of the jurate.

BARRY AND CADOXTON BURIAL BOARD. A meeting of the Barry and Cadoxton Burial Board was held at the Local Board Offices, on Tuesday evening last, at seven o'clock, the members present being Messrs. J. Robinson, J. Barstow, B. G. Davies, E. O. Evans, G. Garnett, S. Robinson, W. Thomas, Dr. Powell, and the Rev. Griffith Williams. In the absence of Mr. Hughes, Mr. G. F. Willett acted as clerk.-The chair was occupied by Dr. Powell during the election of chairman-- On the motion of Mr. J. Barstow, seconded by Mr. W. Thomas, it was unanimously carried that Mr. J. Robinson be re-elected chairman for the coming year. Mr. Robinson then took possession of the chair, and briefly returned thanks for the confidence placed in him. He explained that the clerk was absent in London, giving evidence in favour of the Barry Company's Bill for the running of through trains to Cardiff. (Hear, hear.)-A letter from the caretaker, R. Thomas, was read explaining that the bad state of the weather had hindered him consider- ably in his work, and asking the Board for assistance.-The Chairman thought that one man was sufficient to keep the Cemetery in order, and it was decided to allow the matter to drop until the next meeting, and to ask the caretaker to attend same.—A sum of t8 on account of the drain, and £ 50 on account of the lodge were voted to Mr. Crisp. Asked his opinion as to the progress of the work, the chairman said the weather had been very much against Mr. Crisp, but that the brickwork had been erected to within a couple of feet of the roofing and that the work was in a fair state of progress.—The Clerk's financial statement was read. The receipts amounted to C4 15s. Od., and the expenditure to C5 (caretaker's wages), leaving a debit of 5s.—Six graves only had been opened during the month.-The question of numbering the graves was discussed, and it was decided to obtain quotations for posts, to mark out the cemetery. The attention of the Board was also drawn to the fact that many of the existing graves ran north and south instead of east and west, and it was resolved and carried that instructions be given to have this remedied, so that all the graves may run east and west.—Mr. Barstow remarked that his attention had been called to the narrowness of the road from the top of Crogan Hill to the Cemetery. He stated that on many an occasion lie had seen funeral processions well-nigh thrown into the hedge by coming into contact with a vehicle moving in an opposite direction to that in which they were travelling, and in one instance the coffin was almost thrown to the ground. He proposed they should petition the Local Board to have the portion of the road in question widened. Mr. Garnett seconded, and the motion was carried unanimously.—The chairman stated they were also to consider Dr. Powell's suggestion for the holding of some of their meetings at the Cemetery during the summer months. Dr. Powell said that at the time he suggested this, he was not aware that it was the practice of the Board to appoint a monthly visitor for the Cemetery, and that he now with- drew the motion. The proceedings then terminated.

ST. PATRICK'S DAY AT CAD OXTON. 1 —— On Tuesday. March 17th, the natives of the Green Isle, at Cadoxton. celebrated the day of their patron saint by a dinner, held at Howe's Temper- ance Hotel, Dr. O'Donnell in the chair. After the usual loyal toasts the chairman proposed Ireland ts a Nation." He said that they met this year with somewhat gloomier prospects than last year the change was brought about by the ambition and 11 [ self-seeking of one man, who preferred his own [ importance to the interests of Ireland. (Hear, hear.) But there were hopeful signs still that justice to | Ireland would triumph at the next election. The first was the growing feeling among Englishmen that the national aspirations of their country were just; the other was the refusal of the Greater Ireland over the seas to be drawn out of their loyalty to their country by the self-seeking of an ambitious man. (Applause). Mr. W. LI. Williams (editor of THE SOUTH WALES STAR) responded. Mr. Watkins proposed the Day we celebrate." and said that he was sure that as Welshmen re- membered St. Patrick's Day so Irishmen would join in celebrating the day of the patron Saint of Wales. The Rev. Father Hyland, in responding, said that what St. David was to the Welshman, St. Patrick was to the Irishmen. Though St. Patrick lived 1,400 years ago, yet his memory was as fresh and green in the hearts of every Irishman as the little shamrock they loved so well. (Applause.) After paying a high tribute to St. Patrick's work in Christianising and educating Ireland, he said that the reason why Irishmen celebrated this day was because they recognised that St. Patrick was the first to make Ireland an Island of Saints," and for generations the most enlightened country in Europe. (Hear, hear.) Men from abroad sent their sons to be educated in Ireland, and the false deity of the Druids was dethroned for the God of the Christians. (Applause.) Mr. McDonald proposed The Friends of Ireland." Mr. Lewis Lewis responded, and said he had always been a friend to Ireland, and a supporter of Mr. Gladstone's policy. (Hear, hear.) Mr. Russell also responded, and said that Mr. Gladstone was Ireland's greatest friend. He had been quite consistent in his advocacy of Home Rule. Once Ireland sent a decided majority of Home Rulers to Parliament, Mr. Gladstone listened to the demands of the Irish representatives. (Applause.) Mr. McCann proposed the toast of The Visitors," which was responded to by Dr. Lloyd Edwards. Mr. William Thomas, and Mr. Harrison. Between the toasts some excellent songs were sung by Misses Driscoll and McCarthy, and Messrs. O Shea, McDonald and Mooney, Miss McCarthy's Steer my bark to Erin's Isle." and Master Mooney's One night as I sat," eliciting loud applause. A most enjoyable evening was brought to a close by a dance.

AUDITING OF THE BARRY LOCAL BOARD ACCOUNTS. TREASURER'S SALARY DISALLOWED. The Barry and Cadoxton Local Board accounts for the year ending the 25th of March, 1890, were audited at the Board Offices, Cadoxton. on Tuesday, before Mr. G. Brett, district auditor. The accounts were found correct with the exception of one item. viz. an amount of C7 paid to the treasurer as salary for the year. We understand that this amount was disallowed, a's it was practically pay- ment of interest on an overdraft.—The late auditor, Mr. Roberts, was accustomed to allow this salary to the treasurer, but Mr. Brett has set his face against the practice.—The local board made the payment in accordance with the practice that was common in this part of the district when Mr. Roberts was auditor.-The present auditor sur- charged Mr. John Robinson who was chairman of the board meeting which passed the cheque and undersigned such cheque as chairman.-Application will now be made to the Local Government Board to sanction such payment, and under the circumstances of the case there is no doubt but that this will be done.

DEATH OF THE LATE RECTOR OF PENARTH. News reached Cardiff on Monday of the death of the Rev. Charles Parsons, late rector of Penarth, but recently of Brompton Ralph Rectory, Wiveles- combe. Mr. Parsons had for some while been in indifferent health, and in 1889 exchanged livings with the Rev. \V. Sweet-Escott. The rev. gentle- man, who was ordained a deacon in 1855. and a priest in 1856, was curate of St. Mary's, Cardiff, from 1855 to 1859, and curate of Roath from 1859 to 1863. He was appointed Rector of Penarth and Lavernock in the latter year. Mr. Parsons was very popular amongst a large section of his old parishioners.

TRIAL OF DA VIES AT THE CARDIFF ASSIZES. THE VERDICT. At the Glamorganshire Assizes held at Cardiff on Wednesday (before Mr. Justice Vaughan Williams) John Davies, 34, labourer, of imperfect education, was charged with committing a felonious assault upon Margaret Elizabeth Donnelly, aged 16, at Llandough, on the 3rd of January. Mr. Harley Downs (instructed by Mr. Heitzman) prosecuted, and the prisoner, who pleaded not guily, was defended by Mr. Arthur Lewis (instructed by Mr. T. H. Belcher). The evidence of the prosecutrix, who lives with her mother at 33, Hewell-street, Cogan, was to the effect that on Saturday evening, January 3rd, she was sent on an errand to the grocer's shop. Returning about half-past nine o'clock she passed the prisoner, who at that time was sitting on a seat in the Windsor-road. He followed her, struck her on the nose. Witness had said nothing to the prisoner, who then struck her three times on the head and once in her side. Prosecutrix ran from him into an empty house in Lower Plassey-street. Prisoner followed her. She experienced a stunned feeling, and recollected no more until Sunday morning. She knew the prisoner well before the assault was committed. She got into the empty house through the window, and the prisoner fol- lowed in the same way.—The cross-examination of Mr. Lewis was directed to show contradictions between the prosecutrix's evidence before the magistrates and that given that morning. Dr. Clapp gave evidence as to the injuries, and said he knew the prisoner, who had a large family, and had borne a good character. On the night the assault was alleged to have been committed prisoner called at witness's house for the purpose of handing over some club money. Prisoner went on an errand for witness about ten o'clock and returned at half-past. At that time he was per- fectly composed. Other evidence having been given. Mr. A. Lewis, for the defence, said no one could help feeling great sympathy for the child, who had been outraged by somebody. But the jury must not let their sympathies for the child sway their judgment in coming to a conclusion. The only direct evidence against the prisoner of having been concerned in what was undoubtedly a gross outrage was that of the little girl herself. The learned counsel contended that the girl was subject to hallucinations, and that it was upon her statement, made when unconscious on the (, Monday morning, that the prisoner was arrested. Prisoner had known the girl, and, according to her evidence, he had always been civil to her. This fact, coupled with the fact that prisoner was a married man with a large family, negatived the presumption he would be a man likely to commit the crime, or be subjected to a sudden fit of passion, in which the outrage was evidently com- mitted. Mr. Lewis proceeded to comment upon the contradictions in the evidence, and contended that the prisoner could not possibly be the man who committed the crime. The prisoner was then put into the box. He said he was a married man and the father of eight children, seven of whom were girls. On the night in question he was at the St. Fagan's Hotel at nine o'clock. He stayed there a quarter of an hour and then proceeded to Dr. Clapp s. On the way he met two persons he knew, and settled a dispute between them. He returned to the St. Fagan's Hotel, and there again saw a man named Porter. Between twenty-five and half-past nine he left for Dr. Clapp's house, which he reached about twenty minutes to ten. He went through the accounts with the doctor, for whom he subse- quently went for; two bottles of whisky. After having a glass of whisky and some cake, he left the doctor's house about half-past ten o'clock. Joseph Porter, a mason, of Dock-street, Cogan, deposed to seeing prisoner as stated at the St. Fagan's Hotel, and Evan Morgan to meeting him in the Windsor Hotel about ten minutes to eleven o'clock on the night of January 3. Mrs. Carr spoke to accosting a man in the Windsor-road about twenty minutes past nine, believing him to be the prisoner. She was, how- ever, mistaken. Robert Monroe, manager of the Penarth Slipway, gave the prisoner an excellent character, as did also Mr. Thomas Beavan, builder, of Penarth. The jury at this point stopped the case, finding a verdict of not guilty. Prisoner was accordingly discharged.

THE GENERAL TJNION OF CARPENTERS AND JOINERS. ANNUAL DINNER OF THE LOCAL BRANCH. On Wednesday night the first annual dinner of the Barry and Cadoxton Branch of the General Union of Carpenters and Joiners was given at the Witchill Hotel, Cadoxton, Dr. O'Donnell in the chair. After a sumptuous dinner, a very pleasant evening was passed. When the usual loyal toasts had been drunk, Mr. W. Bazaid, the secretary of the local branch of the union, gave a statement showing the progress the district branch had made. When it was started twelve months ago by Mr. T. Northey, of the Penarth Lodge, assisted by two members of the same lodge, Mr. S. Parsons and Mr. C. Thomas, 21 members were enrolled on the open- ing night. This, he considered, very creditable in a scattered district as Barry and Cadoxton was then. Now the number had increased to 40 mem- bers. The subscriptions amounted to C32 16s. 5'd. 2 out of this, £ 1 9s. 7d. was paid to management and incidental expenses and £ 5 to the executive lodge, and a balance was Jeft of £ 26 6s. lO.jd. (Applause.) The General Union was first formed in July, 1827, and since 1865 a sum of £ 175,000 had been paid out: £ 72,000 had been paid to the sick and superannuated X 70,000 to burials £ 20,000 to accidents £6,000 for tools and £ 45,000 to strikes. He mentioned these facts that all present might know the benefits they would derive from joining the union by making them acquainted with its history. He would remind them that united they stood, divided they fell. (Applause.) Mr. Bazaid then read a letter from Mr. W. Atkin, the general secretary, regretting that he was unable to be present. Dr. O'Donnell proposed Success to the Lodge," and said that he took a lively interest in Trades Unions and benefit societies. In the practice of his profession he found them a great boon to the working men, as it gave them a sense of indepen- dence and self-reliance in bad cases of illness. Trade Unionism gave the working men a great power. The power of capital was at one time absolute now men had the power of having a fair wage for a fair day's work. (Applause). It gave the men a great political power, by enabling them to return representatives to the House of Commons, and after the lowering of the franchise, and the passing of the measure of one man one vote," the working men will be the paramount power in the State. He was confident that the working men would use their power in a spirit of moderation and fairness. (Applause). Mr. Northey, the secretary of the Penarth Lodge, in response said that he was glad to see that the branch was so prosperous, and that such good feeling existed between the two kindred societies. In the past year 20 branch lodges were established, four of which were started in Glamor- ganshire. (Applause.) Mr. J. S. Goodman in proposing the visitors, said that unionism smoothed the relations between masters and men. Mr. Hamer (of the Amalgamated Union) re- sponded, and said that he was glad the two local societies worked so well together. Mr. Barbidge also responded, and said that he had been on strike pay and on the road with the green ticket. (Laughter). But though sympathis- ing with Trade s Unionism, he hoped that the time would soon come when all strains between capital and labour would be righted without the interven- tion of men like Ben Tillett, Tom Mann, and J. H. Wilson. Dr. O'Donnell proposed The Host and Hostess," and Mr. Hoddinott responded. After the chairman s health had been drunk with musical honours, a most enjoyable evening was brought to a close by Mr. Evans singing the National Anthem of Wales, all joining in the chorus. Between the toasts Messrs. Verdi and Ford played a violin and piano dtiett. Mr. Piper gave excellent renderings of several airs on the concertina, which were enthusiastically encored. Mr. George Glover sang She was beautiful as a butterfly" Mr. Rowe, The Death of Nelson and ''The song that reached my heart" Mr. Parfitt, "The Anchor's Weighed," The Sham- rock," and, as an encore song, "I will stand by my friends" Mr. Jackson, The Black Pica- ninny (encored), and another nigger song, which was also encored, and Mr. Rhys Williams sang a Welsh song, Cusan Mam."

—.— ♦ POLITICS AT LLANTWIT-MAJOR. TO THE EDITOR OF THE SOUTH WALES STAR. Sm,-What a specimen of the old fossilized Tory the Unionists of South Glamorgan have chosen to champion their cause. When Conservatives of the Chaplin type are being converted to the import- ance of the allotment question, we find the Jubilee knight stuck fast in the mud of old Tory prejudice, and sneering at the question, as the three acres and a cow cry of the Liberals. But, agricultural labourers of Llantwit-Major, be not surprised when next the worthy knight visits your ancient town to hear him claim to be your best friend, as he and his party have always been in favour of giving you small plots of land to cultivate.-Yours, kc., PELAGIUS.

A WORD OF WELCOME TO "THE SOUTH WALES STAR." TO THE EDITOR OF THE SOUTH WALES STAR. SIR,Having been made acquainted with your intention of supplying the Rhondda and South and Mid-Glamorgan districts with a weekly paper of advanced Liberal views, allow me in your first issue to congratulate you upon the enterprise, to welcome your effort, and to express my sincere desire for the success of your undertaking. I gather from your prospectus that "the aim and purpose of the promoters and directors will be to furnish clear and intelligible information on the great questions that affect the welfare of the people, and to fearlessly protest against all unjust or harsh treatment of the helpless and poor, and to assist in the passing of just laws." I feel sure that if this noble purpose be kept prominently to the front, and even but partially realised, your paper will meet a widely-felt want in the districts which for the most part it is in- tended to serve. Two of the Parliamentary divisions in which the paper is intended to circulate—namely, the Rhondda and Mid-Glamorgan divisions, are in the very front ranks of the Radical constituencies of the United Kingdom, while South Glamorgan is more than sufficiently Radical to return as its representative such a sturdy supporter of Liberalism as A. J. Williams, Esq., M.P. It is perfectly clear that a paper that will command the confidence and support of such Radical constituencies must be in thorough touch with the people characterised by such views, and such I hope THE SOUTH WALES STAR will prove itself to be. The Liberals of these divisions, in common with the Liberals of all the other Parliamentary divi- sions of the kingdom, feel that pressing reforms are needed, especially in reference to the State patro- nage and control of religion, and the great questions of labour, education, and land. And if THE SOUTH WALES STAR will "assist in the passing of just laws" affecting these and other needful reforms, it will, I am sure, receive the hearty support of the great majorities of Liberals in these constituencies. It is gratifying to see inscribed upon your banner courage, fairness, and consistency," and I sincerely hope that THE SOUTH WALES STAR in prosecuting its beneficial object by such worthy methods will meet with all the success it deserves. I am, &o., I. LLOYD. Maesteg.

ECHOES FROM THE VALE. We hail THE STAR as a boon for the Liberal cause of the future. The vale has been in want, and has suffered greatly that no definite Liberal paper has been published long ago to educate the people that want we hope is now to be supplied. We are sure THE STAR will receive its light from the great sun of true Liberalism, and that every principle shall be fearlessly handled. The state of the Liberalism of the vale is rather behind the times. It's neither hot nor cold. Per- haps this is to be accounted for by the locality being so thinly populated, and political meetings so seldom held. But now on the Appearance of this new STAR, with its true light, shall ignition take place to make quite hot a new and fresh heat ? And if this can be accomplished, then, indeed, the boon we shall truly realise. Let Liberals read THE STAR, let Liberals contribute to THE STAR, and let the literature of THE STAR be such that will benefit all; even Conservatives if they embrace its principles. With this short introduction we are proud of our new paper, and are determined to do our utmost to make it very successful.

MAESTEG NOTES. Right welcome art thou, 0 STAR. We hail thy advent with joy, and wish thee success in thine enterprise. As Radicals, we have had to put up too long with a kind of journalism which was far from being palatable to our taste, and rejoice now that a Radical paper will be circulated in the South and Mid-Glamorgan Divisions. The working classes are those whom you promise to support, and we believe that their support has already in a great measure being guaranteed for you. THE STAR will appear at Maesteg when the sun of prosperity is shining brightly and happily on the place. There is abundant evidence of the abundance of work. We have workmen's trains for Abergwynfi, by which nearly a hundred miners travel night and morning, and we have local workmen's trains conveying the workmen to the Caerau new pits. I would suggest, in the interest of the Coegnant workmen living at Maesteg, that the same kind privilege be extended to them. Again, the rapidity with which the once empty houses have been filled is astonishing. All the houses here are now occupied, and many are now speculating in raising new cottages. This is a state of things which "cheers the heart of an inhabitant of the Hen Blwyf.' In our notes of this week we have to call atten- tion to a disagreeable feature in one of our local contemporaries' issue of last waek. Surely party feeling should not run so high as to take away the courtesy due to a gentleman." When spleen guides the pen it is no wonder that insults and cruel words are written. Attacking and insulting an innocent person under the dark disguise of anonimity shows either the rude and uncultured manners of a novice, or the wanton and reckless bitterness of a semi-educated man. We hope from time to time to send a few notes on the topics which interest the people of the place, and in all seek to promote the principle which should reign supreme, viz., "Favour to none, justice to all."

MAESTEG LOCAL BOARD. The usual fortnightly meeting of the above Board was held on Friday evening, March 13th, when there were present:—Mr. David Davies (in the chair), Messrs. J. Tamblyn, J. Barrow, J. Ray, and T. King-Davies. THE TOWN HALL. Complaints were made that the Town Hall doors had been left open, and that the snow had drifted in on Tuesday. It was also shown that the com- panies who engage the hall do not attend to their duties as they should. The question of the custo- dian's duties and pay were also referred to, and it was decided that the Clerk write to the custodian and ask him to be present at the next meeting. The present state of matters demands immediate attention. BRIDGEND ROAD. Permission was given to Mr. Thomas Rees to build in front of his houses on condition that the present wall be removed back according to the instructions of the Surveyor. THE LAMP IN FRONT OF THE TOWN HALL. As there was some discussion amongst the mem- bers of the Lighting Committee, the matter was referred again to them, and the Surveyor was ordered to mark the different points suggested, so that the question may be decided at the next meeting. BANGOR ROAD. The dispute which prevented the improvements in this street from being carried on is now at an end. and the much-needed work is fast approaching completion. OFFICERS RE-ELECTED. Dr. W. H. Thomas was re-appointed Medical Officer for the district. Mr. W. G. Davies was re-appointed Inspector of Nuisances. MAIN ROAD. The Surveyor reported that the length of the road, which was to be under the supervision of the County Council, was 4 miles and 51 yards, reaching y 11 from Rose and Crown to within a short distance from Cymmer, and that its annual average cost per mile was c 112 13s. lid. PLANS PASSED. Messrs. E. Williams, stable and coach-house in Church-street: S. Dawkins, house in Castle-street: Thomas Powell, house in Castle-street; Marshall Treharne, house in Bridgend-road David Harries, alterations at Castle Hotel. ADDITIONAL POLICE. The Clerk reported that this matter had been referred to the Joint Committee of the County Council. XOTICE OF MOTION. Notice of motion was given by Mr. David Davies, That the Board consider the question of borrowing a sum not less than £1,000 to carry out improve- ments in the place. NEW RATE. A rate of Is. 6d. in the £ was declared.

GARW AND OGMORE GAS BILL. The bill which is now before Parliament asks for power to buy land for the construction of works. Objection having been taken to the site originally selected, the promoters now seek per- mission to insert an additional provision in the bill, and this came on Monday before the examiners of the House of Commons for proof of compliance with the standing orders. The additional pro- vision sets forth that the objectors offer to pro- mote and take shares in the company if the works are placed higher up the vallay, and the promoters have accordingly selected a sight about a quarter of a mile further up.-There was no opposition, but the examiners, after hearing the parliamentary agent, decided that the standing orders had not been complied with, inasmuch as the necessary notices had not been given within the time limit laid down by the rules of the House. The matter will accordingly have to go before the standing orders committee, who will in due course decide whether or not the standing orders may be dis- pensed with.