The South Wales Star

TOXYPANDY. JUBILBE SERVICES.-The Welsh Baptists of Tony- pandy who worship at Jerusalem Chapel held their jubilee services on Thursday and Friday last, when the pulpit was occupied by the Revs. R. D. Roberts, Hwynhendy, and B. Humphreys, Llanelly. The col- lections not only cleared the whole of the existing debt but a large surplus was also received, which will be forwarded to the secretary of the Baptist Missionary Society. METHODISM.—The same days the anniversary meetings of the Methodist friends at Pisgah Church were held. The officiating ministers were the Rev. Principal J. C. Edwards and the Rev. Cynddylan Jones. There were large congregations, the preaching was powerful, and the singing good. The collections amounted to a very considerable sum. VISIT OF THE REV. OSSIAN DAVIES.—On Sun- day and Monday next the popular preacher the Rev. Ossian Davies will, together with the Revs. R. Thomas, Glandwr, and T. Cynonfardd Edwards, Car- diff, preach at Ebenezer Congregational Chapel, Tonypandy.

FERNDALE. TIMELY GENEROSITY.—On Christmas Day the poor people of Fcrndale were treated to a Christmas dinner at the Ferndale Coffee Tavern. The dinner was the gift of Messrs.D. Davis and Sons (Limited). More than 130 persons were supplied, and those who failed to attend at the Coffee Tavern partook of the good things at their own homes.

TREALAW. GREAT MORTALITY.—We are informed that on one day last week as many as thirty burials took place at the Trealaw Cemetery.

YSTRAD. MISS GWENNIE HCGHXB. who won the prize for the pianoforte solo at the) Treherbert Eisteddfod on Friday last, is the daughter of Mrs. Clara A. Smith. GRAND CONCERT.—On Christmas Day a grand concert was held at the Bodringallt Chapel, Ystrad, which was very well patronised. Au excellent pro- gramme had been prepared, and the artistes were Miss Asher, R.A.M., London Miss M. Jones, from the Cardiff pops Mr. Afanlais Lewis Aberavon and Mr. L. Giles, of Cardiff. Mr. D. Lloyd, Ystrad, Rhondda, accompanied, and the large audience were well pleased with what may be termed a most success- ful concert. CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINMENT. — On Christmas Day the annual Christmas-tree entertainment and sale of work in connection with the English Baptist Chapel at Pentre, Ystrad, was held at the Higher Grade School, and proved a complete success. Great praise is due to the committee and especially to the officers for the good work they have done in connec- tion with the same. The officers were—president, Mrs. T. Richards; secretary, Mrs. James Williams; and treasurer, Mr. Richard Hern.

TREHERBERT. EISTEDDFOD.—A very successful eisteddfod was held at the Public-hall, Treherbert, on Christmas Day, the president of the day being Mr. E. H. Davies, Pentre. The following are the results:—Soprano solo, Miss Morris, Tontyrefail; recitation, divided between Miss Mary Davies, Port Talbot, and Miss Janet Davies, Treherbert. The chairman presented each of the unsuccessful competitors with a prize. Pianofore solo the first prize was awarded to Miss Hughes, Treherbert 2nd, T. Evans, Treorky 3rd, Miss Michael, Treorky. Con- tralto solo, Miss Edith Parry, Ystrad Rhondda. For the best rendering of "0 Dduw rho im' dy hedd" (M. O. Jones), four choirs competed. The prize, £10 and a gold medal, was awarded to Ystrad Rhondda Choral Union, under the leadership of Mr. Aneurin Lewis. Tenor solo, divided between Messrs. D. Davies, Ton, and Howell Davies, Treorky. Recita- tion, Ymson Judas (nineteen competed) best, Mr. Ebenezer Rogers, Treorky. For the best rendering of On the Ramparts," three male voice parties com- peted, and the prize was divided between the Rhondda Glee Society (conducted by Mr. Tom Stephens), and the Treorky party (under the baton of Mr. W. Thomas).

NAVIGATION. ENTERTAINMENTS. — Two entertainments were given by the Sunday School children of the English Congregational Church, on Thursday, Dec. 24th, and Monday, 28th, at the Board Schools, which was crowded on both occasions. The chair on Thursday was occupied by Mr. Wm. Powell, and on Monday by Mr. Blake, Caihays. The first part of the pro- gramme was the performance of the popular cantata (in character), entitled the White Garland." The second part was of a miscellaneous descrip- tion, and went off successfully. A request having been made to give a repetition of the entertainment, the usual vote of thanks were exchanged after which the Navigation Drum and Fife Band played the National Anthem."

YNYSYBWL. CHRISTMAS DAY.—Christmas Day passed off here very quietly, the only attraction being a tea meeting and entertainment with the English Methodists. The vestry of Jerusalem Welsh Calvinistic Methodists was profusely decorated with evergreens and mottoes upon this occasion, and the tables, which numbered fivo in all, were very well arranged, and were attended to by the following ladies ;-Mrs. J. T. Williams and Miss Nellie Rowlands; Mrs. Charles John, Miss Lizzie Rowlands, and Miss Jones Mrs. David Jones, Miss M. Roberts, and Miss Jenkins; Mrs. Thomas Roberts and Miss A. Jenkins and Miss Bessie Beith, Miss Brace, and Miss Jenny Beith. A great number partook of tea, and the arrangements, which were left entirely in the hands of the ladies, were carried out in a very creditable manner. Tea. being over preparations were then made for the evening's entertainment. A platf&rm was then raised at the adjoining chapel upon which we"e placed flower pots and evergreens, which gave it a very pleasing appearance. In due time the choir ascended, i1.nd under the baton of Mr. Tom Dixon, gave a render- ing of the cantata entitled, "Led by a child," the readings being recited by the scholars of the Sunday School. The accompanists were Miss Pattie Lewis ind Miss Jones, London House Mr. Jno. Williams [violin) assisting. Through the unavoidable absence )f Dr. Morgan, the chair was ably filled by Mr. J. T. Williams, checkweigher. The entertainment through- out was very interesting.

DISESTABLISHMENT MEETING IN THE RHONDDA. The first meeting in the Rhondda. in connection with the Disestablishment Campaign was held ab the Congregational Chapel, Llwynypia, on Monday night, when the chair was occupied by Mr. J. Blandy Jenkins, J.P. There was a large atten- dance.—In the course of his opening remarks, the Chairman said he was strongly in favour, although a Churchman, of the Dis- establishment of the Church of England in Wales. There might have been a time when the Es- tablishment was a necessity, but the strik- ing influence of the religious fervour of Nonconformity had long ago proved that the Establishment had not done its part in a proper manner.—Mr. Councillor Williams moved a resolution to the effect that that meeting heartily supported the movement for the Disestablishment of the Church in Wales, and hoped that it would be placed second to Home Rule on the Liberal pro- gramme for the ensuing session and further, the meeting pledged itself to help on the movement by local contributions. (Cheers.)—Mr. Tom John seconded in an impressive address.-The Rev. E. Richards, Tonypandy, spoke next, and fully agreed with what the previous speakers had said.—Mr. W. Abraham, M.P. (Mabon), said that was an occasion to make arrangements for the fight. His English colleagues, he said, were fully cognisant of the fact that the Church in Wales must be dis- established, and the irretistible arguments which had been set forth from time to time had proved that this question was taken up with more fervour than any question which any other nation had initiated. He then proceeded to give a few illustrations of religious inequality in the princi- pality, and said amongst other things that the other day he noticed eight funerals waiting at the Treorky cemetery in the midst of a heavy storm, while at the same time there was an unoccupied building close by which could not be entered be- cause it had been consecrated. (Cries of Shame.") —The meeting then elected a local committee for the Llwynypia district, and several pro- minent men signified their willingness to act on the same. A very cordial vote of thanks was passed to Mr. Blandy Jenkins for presiding. This was proposed by Mr. Howell John, manager of the Cwm Clydach Colliery, and seconded by Mr. W. Davies, J.P. Mr. Councillor Lewis supported and paid the highest tribute to the practical work which that gentleman had done on the County Council. His unfailing attendance at the meetings of the Roads and Bridges Committee was a matter of comment, and it was with great satisfaction that he hailed the fact that a landed proprietor of his position had enrolled himself on the side of the democracy. (Loud applause).—Mr. Blandy Jenkins suitably returned thanks, and the meeting terminated.

THE WARDS' QUESTION IN THE BARRY DISTRICT. TO THE EDITOR OF THE SOUTH WALES STAR. SIR,—I shall be glad if you will kindly insert the following letter, which I have addressed to the Barry Dock JSvws, in the next issue of your paper. -Yours truly, J. C. MEGGITT. TO THE EDITOR OF THE BARRY DOCK NEWS. SIR,-The letter which Mr. Jones-Lloyd ad- dressed to you on the 16th inst. is so misleading and contains so many mis-statements, that I must again trouble you in this matter, though had you not suppressed my letter to yourself last week, I should have been content to have remained silent. Mr. Lloyd states, among other things, that at our interview on the 8th mat., he said my request for a bond was both unusual and unnecessary, and also that he would indemnify me to the extent of two guineas. This is contradictory. If what was asked was unnecessary and unusual, why should he offer to guarantee anything ? As a matter of fact, he did not make any offer, neither did he say that the request was unusual and unnecessary nor did he give me the impression that there would be any difficulty in getting a bond. At our interview we went through the paragraphs dealing with this question in the Public Health Act 1875. and I distinctly told Mr. Lloyd that if he would see the clerk to the Board, who had legally advised me that the bond was necessary, and satisfy him either as to the amount, or make any other ar- rangement vhich he (Mr. Lloyd) could suggest, I should be perfectly content, and would act accord- ingly, as it was a legal question and one which could be best arranged by lawyers. Mr. Jones-Lloyd also informs you that I said the movement was somewhat premature. This is per- fectly true, but yet misleading. Mr. Lloyd inci- dentally asked me how many members of the Board were opposed to the division into wards, and my reply was that I thought all were in favour of the scheme, but I said that it might have been wise to have delayed moving in the matter until the district was further developed and we had settled down," adding, however, that as the question was now brought forward, the sooner perhapg it was settled the better. When I said this I little thought that a most unworthy attempt would be made to make capital out of a friendly conversation. In conclusion, I strongly protest against the con- duct of Mr. Lloyd in this matter. We met, dis- cussed the question, and yet he writes letters containing imputations of an unwarrantable nature, and makes very misleading and incorrect statements. I leave your readers to draw their own conclu- sions.-Yours faithfully, (Signed) J. C. MEGGITT. Steam Saw Mills, Barry Dock.

THE PAINTER'S STRIKE AT BARRY. TO THE EDITOR OF THE SOUTH WALES STAR. SIR,-In your issue of Dec. 25th you published a letter from Mr. E. C. Gibbs, the general secretary of the Painters' Society, and inasmuch as he is an high official, his words no doubt carry weight with them, and they are entitled to our serious con- sideration. I observe that Mr. Gibbs says that, acting upon the suggestion of Mr. Paull, the words 19 six weeks before Christmas, and six weeks after," were struck out, and eight weeks substituted. Now, sir, Mr. Gibbs and the Trades' Council charges the employers that by their action in the present dispute they are playing fast and loose with the rules which they had signed. But the Trades' Council evidently did not know, and Mr. Gibbs very carefully suppressed the fact that the original document which was signed had been altered to the eight weeks, after all the'signatures of every employer had been appended, with the exception of Mr. Paull, who was the last to sign it. If this is not playing rast and loose with the rules, perhaps Mr. Gibbs can tell us what is. I have been told that the alteration is in our favour. But even this is a debatable point, and what I contend is that once having obtained our signatures no alteration of any kind should have been made either for or against either party without the consent of the signatories being ob- tained. This having been done, and I challenge contradiction, the employers are not open to the charge of having committed a breach of faith. And yet the workmen when (what every common sense person must admit) a fair and just com- promise of the present dispute is offered them, they instantly reject on the grounds that it is breaking the rules." If they were loose in altering the rules without our consent, why are they so fast in sticking to it, when as one of their own delegates admitted, the compromise offered them was perfectly fair and just. B.1t the fact is that there is a suspicion of there being something behind the scenes," which I would suggest is somewhat of this kind. The men know that for all practical purposes the strike is over as nearly every employer has quite sufficient men to com- pete with present orders, and it is simply now the men are out of work, for which they receive no payment from their society, but as long as they are on strike, having received the sanction of the executive council they receive strike pay. This is about the sum and substance of the whole matter. In conclusion, allow me to correct Mr. Howells, who in a postscript attributes a remark to me as to luncheon time which I certainly did not make, and if made at all, it was by some one, other than yours truly, F. W. TAYLOR. I

MARRIAGE. THOMAS—WILLIAMS.—On the 19th ult., at Capel-y- groes, Lampeter, by the Rev. Thomas Thomas, Mr. John Thomas, saddler, Barry Dock, to Miss Eliza- beth, daughter of Mr. J. Williams, Tangraigfach, New Court, Llanybyther.

BRIDGEND LOCAL BOARD. MR C. P. DAYIBS AND THE BOARD. The usual meeting of this Board was held at the Board-room, on Tuesday evening last. Present 1;Ir. LI. Wallington (chairman), Messrs. W. McGaul, W. M. Richards, W. Francis. M. Davies. Edwin Price, W. Powell, E. Rich, and W. Stubbs (clerk's deputy). Mr. Evan Williams was unable to attend thgough influenza. MISCELLANEOUS. The report of the Finance Committee was read by Mr. W. M. Richards, stating that the various accounts had been examined, and also the bank- book of the Board, showing that there was a balance in favour of the Board of j6105 5s. lOd. Cheques were ordered to be signed for the several amounts named.—Mr. Wallington wished to correct an item on the minutes, that the Gas Company paid 18s. per ton for coal, it ought to have been 16s. lid. per ton. His attention had been called to the matter since the last meeting.— A report was read from the Surveyor stating that in view of a complaint from the County Surveyor he detailed the amount of stones used on roads in the neighbourhood, and stated that there was 200 cubic yards of stone ready to put out, and and 50 yards to get.—It was decided that the stones be measured by Messrs. McGaul and Francis, but no formal complaint had been received from the County Surveyor, but a slight intimation made to the members.—It was decided that the application of Mr. James Smith, the stone-breaking contractor, for an advance of £ 20 on his contract be granted. —A letter was read from Mr. George Moore, 34, South-street, calling the attention of the Board to the horrid nuisance existing near his house. Some years ago a drain was constructed, with instruc- tions to the officer to connect surface as well as other drains. As a matter of fact this is not yet done, and the officer knew it. Owing to the liquid matter from manure at the place he bad no place to keep food, and the effluvia emanating there- from was injurious to health. He had called the attention oc a medical gentleman to the nuisance, and if the Board did not take steps to remedy it, he would take legal proceedings.-The matter was left in the hands of the surveyor's deputy and the chairman to review it, and, if necessary, call a special meeting of the Board. MORE NUISANCES. A letter was read from Mr. George F. Lambert, architect and surveyor, Park-street, stating that the Board were probably aware of the trouble and expense he had a few years ago. when it was found that the water from the drain near the pine end of his house found its way under the foundation into the kitchen. At the time it was temporarily remedied. Since then it had become flooded into another sewer, taking sewerage from the houses on the north side of Park-street, as well as surface water. This is a six-inch drain only, and, from the extreme pressure, i, appears to have in several places caused a greal deal of trouble and expense, and, owing to the injury to his house, he must send away his wife and children. He had repaired it himself once, and he ventured to suggest that the Board at once construct a nine-inch drain at the place, It would admit of no delay, and he asked that the necessary work be done forthwith. -After a little discussion, Mr. W. McGaul prop sed that the suggestion be carried ont.- Mr.o W. Francis seconded, and it was carried ?<"?/?. con. MR. C. P. DAVIES AND THE BOARD. The Chairman announced that, with reference to this matter, they were practically in the same positions as the last time they met. There was an insufficient attendance to proceed with the matter at a previous meeting, and he did not think there was any reason why it should be put off further. He was quite prepared to go on with it if the other members were agreeab'e. He wished to prove in the first place that the application be made to connect a drain on August 7th was understood to be for sewerage purposes, and he would do so. The next thing he required was to show that the accusation that he had surreptitiously connected the drain was entirely without foundation. He asked that his application be first read.—Mr. M. Davies questioned whether it was possible to go on with the business in the absence of the Surveyor. He understood that that officer had a a great deal to do with it. The Chairman It has to do with the Surveyor and the Clerk.—Mr. Davies Very well, then how can wa deal with it ? In the absence of those material witnesses I don't think it is desirable.—Mr. Francis: What is the nature of the case which we have to investigate ?—The Chairman The only thing is that I want to be relieved from the through that I did this surreptitiously, and the accusation of the late chairman of the Board, that the drains was in- tended for sewerage as well.—Mr. Powell said what they ought to discuss was the dispute re Mr. Davies' letter, and he should like to have it read.- Mr. Davies agreed with Mr. Powell regarding the accusations, but in dealing with a case they were entitled to go to the first cause—viz., the arrange- ment with Mr. Wallington regarding the using of the drain for sewerage purposes. That would meet Mr. Davies' complaint.—Mr. Francis said those accusations hed no business to come before the Board at all. A drain might be constructed for a certain purpose, but they were empowered to change that purpose if it was public property and properly constructed, to cope with their in- tentions. They were there to deal chiefly in matters of drainage with nuisances, land if that was no nuisance it had no right to come before the Board in that manner.—Mr. Powell Hear, hear. —Mr. McGaul said that Messrs. Francis and Powell forgot that they had stopped Mr. Philip Thomas connecting with the drain, simply because it was stated that it was part of the Board's property. There was a fixed question, and that was really at the bottom of it. If the other houses had been allowed to connect, they would not have heard anything more about it.—Mr. Francis: I take it that it is public property.-The Chairman Of course, it is.—Mr. Francis: Then, we have no right to stop them.—The Chairman then recapitu- lated the position of affairs.—Several of the mem- bers being in a" fog," the whole of the correspon- dence was again read over, after which the Chairman asked why was all this fuss made about the drain connected two years ago, since Mr. C. P. Davies had allowed a drain to be connected of a house being built on his own property within the past few days.—Mr. W. Powell: Because it suits him to do it.—Mr. M. Davies said as far as Mr. C. P. Davis was concerned he thought him very reason- able since he had now asked in a letter that nothing be done further than see that no other drain be connected with it.—Mr. Powell said he mentioned that, but what were his original in- tentions ?—Mr. McGaul said the complaint was therefore practically at the end.—Mr. Francis said they might waive the matter pending the sewer- age scheme. But if this drain emptied into the river and was a nuisance, by all means get it abated, but it compared very unfavourably with the Coity Brook which conveyed sewerage matter for half of the town.—The Chairman: There is no more nuisance than on this table.—Mr. Francis Then we ought to connect a drain, in- stead of cesspools. It is our business to see if it was connected properly, and connect as many drains with it so as not to effect a nuisance.—Mr. Davies did not think the Board should rush matters, and he moved that matters remain according to the letter of Mr. C. R. Davies. until it was abso- lutely necessary.—Mr. M'Gaul seconded it.—Mr. Francis thought Mr. M'Gaul laboured under a wrong impression.—Mr. M'Gaul No, no; It think we had better let well alone.—Mr. Francis and Mr. Powell supported a negative.—Mr. W. M. Richards said that whenever they had found a cesspool existing within 100 feet from the main -drain,they had always called upon. the owners to con- nect with the drain, and it was now admitted that he did not think they had power to prevent Miss Jones from connecting with the surface drain, if it was a surface drain, as he contended it was, and in that he was confirmed by two members of the late Board—Mr. George Beavan and Mr. Jacob Jenkins. -The Chairman said if Mr. Jenkins went into that he would also have to revert to the matter, but Mr. Powell thought there was no mention of surface drain.—The resolution was then put to the meet- ing, and Messrs. Francis and Powell dissented. THE EASTBOURNE RIOTS. The Chairman said he had a long letter to read from the Eastbourne Corporation embodying cer- tain questions which they wished answered. Before doing so, however, Mr. M. Davies proposed that it lay on the table. He did not think the people cf Eastbourne deserved anything at their hands.—Mr. W. Powell I don't think so either, especially for what they have done for the Salva- tion Army.—Mr. E. Price seconded the resolution, which was carzied nem. con. SEASONABLE CHARITY. It was .decided that as there was a surplus in the hands of the committee to distribute charity, and there being no especial need in the town at present, any cases of exigence would be investi- gated by the committee on application.

POLITICAL MEETING.—Next Mabon's Day, Mr. S. T. Evans, M.P., and probably other gentleman from a distance a3 well, will address two political meetings at the Ogmore Valley—one at Nantymoel at one p.m., and another at Tynewydd at four p.m. This will be the first time for Mr. Evan« to address his eonstitu- Ogmore since he entered Parliament, and a & ig ia anticipated.

BRIDGEXD. CHRISTMAS DAY.—This town was tolerably quiet on Christmas Day, and were it not for the peregrina- tions of a brass band would have assumed quite a sleepy nature. Services were held in the various churches, but, beyond an entertainment held at Hermon Welsh Calvinistic Methodist Chapel, at which a good number of the school children took part, there was no attractive feature. This entertainment, how- ever, was well attended, and an enjoyable evening was spent. TO-MORROW'S FOOTBALL.—The Bridgend football team journey to Cardiff on Saturday to encounter the "A" team of that place on the Cardiff Arms' Park. The new three-quarter (Evans) will play for the first time for the home team, and with this exception the team will remain chiefly as hitherto. SMOKING CONCERTS. — On Boxing night and Monday evening last smoking concerts were held in connection with the 2nd Glamorgan Rifle Volunteers (Bridgend detachment). There was a goodly number present each evening. On Monday evening Sergeant- Major Pratt occupied the chair. Songs and recitations were given by most of the company, and enjoyable evenings were spent. FOOTBALL MATCH.-On Boxing Day, owing to the disappointment of the Newport Harriers to turn up at Bridgend, a match with 17 of the second team was decided upon. The result was a victory of the first team members by two tries to nil. Evans, the new three-quarter, caused a very favourable impression, his dodging tactics especially giving him a good name. VISIT OF A DISTINGUISHED DRAUGHT PLAYER. -On Saturday last our local adepts at the game of draughts had an opportunity of displaying their ability by engaging in a friendly encounter with a London medallist of the name of Davies, now on a visit to the family of the landlord of the Wyndham Arms Hotel. A Scotchman was at first defeated in a series of games, and it was left for a native of the town, in the person of Mr. D. R. Phillips, to make anything like a stand." Eleven games were played, out of which no less than seven were declared drawn, the honours of the remaining four being equally divided—two wins each. A large company witnessed the encounters. HOPE BAPTIST CHAPEL.—On Sunday last-' the pastor-elect of the above church occupied the pulpit, and preached two powerful sermons. In the evening he fulfilled the ordinance of baptism to several candi- dates before a large congregation. TEA AND ENTERTAINMENT.—A tea and enter- tainment was held at the Congregational Schoolroom on Wednesday evening last, in connection with the Sunday School of that place. The tea was presided over by several ladies, and the afternoon and evening's proceedings were greatly enjoyed. "BLACK DIAMONDS."—A strong company occupied the boards at the Town-hall OR Wednesday evening last in the above drama. The scenery was of the highest order, and the meritorious acting met with well-deserved appreciation. A fairly large audience was present.

OGMORE VALLEY. COMPETITIVE MEETING.—On Christmas Day the annual tea meeting was held at Bethlehem Chapel, Tynewydd. A large number sat down to tea. The ladies who presided at the tables and generally assisted were Mrs. Treharne and Miss Kate McCarthy, Mrs. Wigmore and Miss Mary Evans, Mrs. Thos. Davies and Miss Davies, Mrs. Samuel Jones and Miss Mary Jones, Mrs. D. Thomas and Mrs. H. Lewis, the Misses Jones (Fronwen), 'Mrs. T. Jenkins and Miss M. M. Charles. Mrs. T. H. Job and Miss Sarah Charles, Mrs. T. Lewis and Mrs. Jones (Fronwen). In the evening a competitive meeting was held in the chapel. In the absence of Mr. H. Job, who was unable to be present. Mr. Thomas James presided, and made an admirable chairman. The adjudicator, were:— Singing, Mr. S. Thomas, Gilfach Goch; composition and recitations, Mr. D. Gwentfryn Jones, Tynewydd. Both adjudicators did their work to the satisfaction of all concerned. Competitions were as follows: — Tenor solo, winner Mr. E. James; duett, no one worthy of the prize; recitation winner, Mr. J. Griffiths, Black Mill; singing a piece of music at first sight. prize divided between Mr. E. James and Mr. J. Williams. "Hir a thoddaid" to the late Mrs. Rothamah Jones prize divided between Mr. Watkins (leuan Tir Iarll), Blaengarw, and another, whose name did not transpire. Bass solo, Arm, arm, ye brave"; prize awarded to Mr. J. Williams. For any song, Mr. R. T. Bennett took the prize. Only Bethlehem Choir entered for the choral competition, and they were awarded the prize. Financially, the meeting was un- doubtedly a success, but from a competitive point of view it was hardly a success. SERIOUS ACCIDENT. — On Saturday evening, a farm labourer of (the name of Trotman, employed at the Home Farm, Merthyrmawr was in the act of feeding a chaffcutter, when, by some means, he got his hand in contact with the knives of the machine, by which he had four of his fingers cut off, also his wrist badly bruised. He was attended to by the medical men from Bridgend, who recommended immediate re- moval to the Cardiff Infirmary. He was accordingly taken to that institution early on Sunday morning, in a very weak state from loss of blood. Trotman has unfortunately a large family dependent on his earn- ings, therefore totally unprovided for, and it is feared the unfortunate accident will prevent the poor fellow from following his occupation for some considerable time.

BRYNCETHIN. NAZARETH WELSH BAPTIST CHURCH.—On Sun- day, December 20th, the Rev. E. Gurno3 Jones, L.L.D., paid a visit to the above church. He preached to a good congregation morning and evening in his unique and inimitable style. Nazareth Church felt honoured by this visit of the widely-famed doctor. On Monday evening, December 21st, he delivered his instructive, edifying, and timely lecture on "Dyrchafiad y Gwei- thiwr" ("The Workman's Elevation "). This lecture is brimful of instructive and useful hints as to the ways and means a workingman may better himself. Were the social, political, and and especially the land reforms which the able and popular lecturer so lucidly treated upon brought abrlut, we should witness in the near future a very considerable and material advance- ment in the condition of the working community. The lecture was delivered in Peniel Independent Chapel, which was kindly lent for the occasion. The chair was occupied in a most able manner by the Rev. H. Eynon Lewis, Peniel's respected pastor.

COWBRIDGE. SEASONABLE BENEVOLENCE. The Mayor of Cowbridge has presented to the poor of the borough a fat ox. The distribution took place on Tuesday afternoon at the Town-hall. Over a 100 families were the recipients of the bounty of his W orslii p (Alderman Lewis Jenkins). BAPTIST CHAPEL. — Christmas Day with the Baptists at Cowbridge was most pleasantly spent, the Sunday School together with the branch school at Llanblethian having prepared two excellent pro- grammes fori the day which were admirably carried out. At half-past two o'clock in the afternoon the younger children figured prominently in carrying out an inter- esting programme, nearly all the pieces spoken and sung, being temperance pieces, which speaks well for the good temperance work being carried out amongst the young. Mr. E. Thomas, Llanblethian, delivered an address on-temperance. In the evening at 6.30 the adult choir performed, under the skilful leadership of Mr. J. D. Evans (loan Mere) a number of pieces including the choruses and anthems, The people that walk in darkness," Praise the Lord," 11 Daughter of Zion," &c. A number of beautiful solos were sung, including The children's home," by Miss Myfanwy Evans 11 Out in the snow by Miss E. Evans; Star of Bethlehem," by Miss Bertha Evans; "Man the Lifeboat," by Mr. W. Randell, and Hen Wb.d y Menyg Gwynion," by Mr. Morgan Thomas. A num- ber of glees, recitations, quartettes, &c. were also rendered. Wo are informed that the children's club has been most -successful, the amount distributed amongst the children of both schools during the year amounting to £ 25.

BLACKMILL. LECTURB.-On Christmas night the Rev. Mr. Griffiths, Baptist minister, delivered an edifying lecture at Paran Baptist Chapel, entitled, "A trip through Palestine," which was much enjoyed. Mr. Job Williams, colliery .manager, presided. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded the lecturer, who, we understand, will deliver the lecture at Bettws next Monday night.

PORTHCAWL. OBITUARY.,—We regret to record the death of Mrs. Margaret Thomas, wife of the Rev. Isaac Thomas, Methodist minister, of Porthcawl. Deceased was sister to Dr. Sydenham Jones, barrister-at-law, who is the Liberal candidate for the division of Thauet. On Wednesday her mortal remains were conveyed by hearse to North Cornelly, where they were interred in the burying ground attached to the Welsh C. M. Chapel. The funeral was a private one. CHRISTMAS BOUNTY.—Mrs. Byng Morris, of Danygraig, Newton, has generously distributed through her genial bailiff, Mr. Richard David, gifts of coal and grocery to some of the poor inhabitants of the village. Mrs. R. W. Llewellyn, of [Baglan, who formerly lived at Cleo's Cottage, Newton, has not forgotten the old and poor people of Newton, as she has this year again supplied some of them with parcels of tea, sugar, and oatmeal. CHRISTMAS TEA AND ENTERTAINMENT.— The Sunday scholars connected with the Nottage Baptist Chapel gavo their annual Christmas evening enter- tainment on Christmas night. The excellent pro- gramme of recitations, dialogues, readings, and sing- ing had been prepared, and was gone through very creditably. The children exhibited much taste in reciting, and the dialogues were well rendered. Mr. Griffith Thomas made a very good chairman, and helped to keep the large audience in good humour. At the close of the entertainment the prizes for attend- ance, Ac., were distributed to the scholars. These consisted of a choice selection of books, and kind friends had also sent so many articles of various kinds that a large Christmas tree was simply loaded with them. The chapel had also been tastily decorated with mottoes, pictures, evergreens, ifce. CHRISTMAS SERVICES.—Services were held in St. John's Church, Newton, both morning and even- ing on Christmas Day.

PONTYPRIDD. A SILLY PRACTICAL JOKE.-On Thursday even- ing last an alarm of fire was raised at Porth. and the fire brigade at Pontypridd was called up, and after travelling all the way to Porth, they found that the whole affair was a hoax. It is not yet known who perpetrated this cruel joke upon men who are so gallant and self-denying. THE BURIAL BOARD ELECION.—We learn that fifteen candidates will be nominated for the three seats which will be rendered vacant on the Burial Board by the retirement, in rotation, of the Rev. S. R. Jones, and Messrs. W. Morgan and James Rowlands. The latter gentleman seldom attends the meetings of the board. Mr. T. P. JENKINS ON THE OBSERVANCE OF THE SABBATH.—During the hearing of a case of selling beer on Sunday heard at the Pontypridd Police- court, Mr. T. P. Jenkins expressed deep regret that the police could not proceed against the defendant under the Sunday Closing Act owing to the fact that he was not a licenced victualler. The defendant William Lewis, of J Llantwit, was charged with selling a cask of beer on Sunday, 9th Oct., about nine o'clock in the morning, and the defence was that the beer had been ordered the previous night, and deliverd on Sunday. Mr. T. P. Jenkins said he would have to dismiss the case, but advised the police to take advantage of the old Lord's Day observance Act, for Sunday trading was becoming more and more prevalent. It war a dis- grace to the country and should be stopped. SHOCKING ACCIDENT.—Early on Christmas morn-. ing a shocking accident occurred at the house of a coloured man, named Anthony Ford, Graig-street The man kept a common lodging-house, and so full was it on Christmas Eve that about nine or ten men were obliged to sleep as best they could on the floor of the kitchen. A large boiler full of water upset ;a.bout five o'clock in the morning, and the boiling water flowed overithe-bodies of the two men who slept nearest the fire. They were both scalded seriously, and although Dr. Howard Davies was immediately called in, one of them, named Sullivan, died on Sunday. FATAL ACCIDENT.—A collier named Albert Wm. Williams met with his death under most distressing circumstances on Thursday last. It appears that the deceased, who was working at the Martime Colliery, was at his work when a heavy fall of coal took place, and completely buried him. Williams was a married man, and was the father of a large family. CARADOG'S CHOIR.—This popular choir will, on Tuesday night next, commence to practise the Hymn of Praise," and the veteran conductor will be pleased to see all lovers of music from all parts of the town and district joining the choir. We understand that at the performance of Athalie a week or two ago the reciter (Master Evan Jenkins), whose excellent read- ing has been greatly praised, is a pupil of Mr. Joseph David, headmaster of the Graig Board School. FOUND DROWNED.—On Sunday morning the body of a man was found by Police-constable Rees Davies floating in the river Tafr between Pontypridd and Tre- forest, and was on Monday identified as that of J. H. Williams, Hendrefedog-street, Tylorstown. It appears that the unfortunate man left his home on Christmas Eve, and proceeded to Pontypridd. He was not after- wards seen alive. SALE OF WORK.—On Boxing Day and on the fol- lowing Monday a sale of work was held at the Ponty- pridd Town-hall. The affair had been promoted by the members of the St. David's Sewing Class, and was opened by Mr. Alfred Thomas, M.P., who in his opening address complimented Mr. W. Henry, the young but energetic and much- respected pastor, for the very prosperous condi- tion of his church. The stall-holders were :-Chapel stall, Mrs. Charles Morgan, Mrs. Delaney, Mrs. Pol- lock, Mrs. Crewr, and Mrs. Sterling; No. 2 stall, Miss Alice Evans and Miss Maud Roberts, Taff Vale House; No. 8 stall, the Misses Davies, Mrs. Davies, Miss Morris, Miss Thomas, and Miss Jones No. 4 stall, Mrs. Henry, Mrs. Lush, Mrs. Pluskett, and Mrs. Jenkins, Treforest; No. 5 stall, Miss A. Williams, Miss Lizzie Morgan, and Miss Morris; refreshment stall, Mrs. James Roberts, Miss Rosser, the Misses Bayliss, and Miss Hughes sweet stall, Miss Ethel Morgan, Miss Forrest, and Miss Davies. During the two days Caradog's Orchestra Band played sweet selections of music. The bazaar was well attended, and about £ 100 was realised on Saturday night. It is believed that the total proceeds will exceed £ 200. MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT CLASS.— Mrs. E. S. Bayliss read a paper treating on the dangers of smok- ing, at the St. David's Mutual Improvement Class on Wednesday evening last. HIGHWAY BOARD.—A meeting of the Pontypridd Highway Board was held on Wednesday last at the Union Offices, Pontypridd, Mr. Evan John, J.P., pre- siding.—A letter was read from ithe Waterworks Com- pany stating that if the Rural Sanitary Authority could prove to them that they would be compensated by laying down mains to Tongwynlais and Nantygarw, they were prepared to lay the same. MORE FLOODS.—On Wednesday last owing to the very heavy rain which fell during the day the rivers Rhondda and Taff were heavily flooded. Such a high flood has not been witnessed for some years. ANNIVERSARY SEltVICES were held in connection with the Graig Presbyterian Church, Pontypridd, on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and Sunday last, when the pulpit was occupied by the Rev. Stephen Jenkins, Havcrfordwest; Seth Joshua, Cardiff; W. Davies, Llantwit-Major J. Wyndham Lewis, Carmarthen and J. R. Jones, (B.) Pontypridd. A Welsh service was also held at Penuel on Saturday night. The ser- vices throughout were very well rttended, and good collections were made towards the building fund. CENSURING THE LOCAL BOARD.-At the Police- court on Wednesday, the learned stipendiary expressed his surprise at the action of the Local Board in allow- ing houses to be occupied that had not been properly supplied with water, and mildly censured them for their apparent neglact when he said, Surely the Local Board do not expect people to drink from the River Rhondda." THE FLYING SQUADRON.—Six special constables have been placed on duty in the Pontypridd district for the suppression of Sunday drinking, and have already done some good work. We understand that some of the best members are used for this work. THE LIBERAL CLUB.—So successful has been the billiard handicaps which have recently taken place at the Liberal Club that the games committee have decided to start another on the 3rd of January. The first prize will be a valuable cue, presented by Messrs. Burroughes and Watts, of London, and we have no doubt that a large number will enter the lists. The last cue was won by Mr. McMorlan, who now holds the envious position of champion billiard player of the Liberal Club. PERFORMANCE OF JOSHUA."—The Sardis Choir gave a grand performance of Handel's a Joshua on Christmas Night at the Market-hall, Pontypridd, to a crowded house. The choir numbered about 100 voices, and was under the baton of the young musician, Mr. W. Thompson, who showed a great amount of improve- ment upon his previous performances. The style and tact in which several of the choruses were taken up Ire- flected great credit upon their conductor.

TREHARRIS. BAZAAR}.—On Sunday last a bazaar was held by the members Primitive Methodist Chapel, Treharris, and was very well attended, considering the very boisterous state of the weather. The bazaar was opened, in the absence of Mr. Frank T. James, by the Rev. B. Beckerlegge who announced that the former gentleman had forwarded a cheque for £ 5. During the day some very appropriate selections of music were rendered by the Treharrisi Rechabite Brass Band. Ax EISTEDDFOD was held on Christmas evening at the Brynhyfryd Baptist Chapel, and was presided over by Mr. Rhys Davies. The adjudicators were Messrs. W. R. Thomas and T. Phillips. The com- petitions were very keen. and there was a large attend- ance. It is to be hoped that the church members netted a goodly sum. THE RECENT STORM. — It will be remembered that serious damage was done to the Methodist Chapel of this town, and gallant efforts are being made to inumedia-tely defray the cost of repairing the same. SUDDEN DEATH.—We have to record the death of Mr. T. Jenkins, of Pentwyn, who retired to bed on Friday night last in his usual health, but was found dead in bed next morning.

ABERDARE. CHORAL UNION.—On Christmas Day and Boxing Day the Aberdare Choral Union gave its nineteenth series of annual Christmas concerts at the Temperance Hall. The pieces rendered on the present occasion were Samson (given at 2.30 p.m. on Christmas Day and at 6.30 on Boxing Day), and Mendelssohn's "Hymn of Praise" and Rossini's Stabat Mater." which formed the programme for Christmas evening and the morning of Boxing Day. The artistes engaged were Miss Maggie Davies, of Dowlais Madame Jeanie Rosse, of Dublin; and Messrs Maldwyn Humphreys and David Hughes, of London, and all of them sang their respective parts in such a manner as to elicit vociferous applause and almost irrepressible calls of Encore" from the enthusiastic audience. The conductor, Mr. Rees Evans, also did his work re- markably well, and he certainly deserves mueh greater credit for the excellence of the choruses than his un- assuming nature would allow him to claim for him- self. Not only does he train his choir how to sing, but he also teaches the audience how to listen and, more than all, the audience observes his instructions. The good work that Mr. Evans has been quietly doing in Aberdare for the last eighteen years and more is just what the National Society of Welsh Musicians with its distinguished patrons and the Cardiff Festival promoters are now aiming at, but with a much greater flourish ot trumpets. For instance, Aberdare has for years past had an excellent orchestra of its own, so that it has not to go beyond the border to engage ac- companists and other vocalists. In view of its ex- cellent record in the past, and the continuance of the same unremitting efforts in the present, Aberdare should be a very important centre for the proposed Triennial Festivals at Cardiff. Already the announce- ment is out that Verdi's "II Trovatore" will be per- formed at Easter-time, and those who are unacquainted with the successes of the Aberdare Choral Union should treat themselves to a concert on that occasion.

LLANTWIT-VARDRE. LLAI SUNDAY SCHOOL ANNIVJ!;RSARY.-The !Sunday schools of Bryntirion (C.M.), Efail Isaf (I.), and Gwaenycelyn (B) held their annual meetings for sing- ing and recitations at the Baptist Chapel. The Calvinistic Methodist took the lead, the children re- citing a chapter from Rhodd Mam," and the elder scholars took a part of the tenth chapter of the Epistle to the Hebrews. At two the Efail Isaf school took the place, the little children gave a chapter from Dr. Everett's catechism, and the elder ones a chapter from Dr. William Rees' Hyffroddwr," on The advocacy of the Redeemer." At six the Baptist friends had their iturn, the subject being "The Last Supper." It was a very enjoyable day, everything passed off very well, especially the singing of some of the anthems and choruses.

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LLANTWIT-MAJOR. JONES CHARITY.—The venerable Vicar of Llant- wit-Major distributed what is known as Jones's Charity last week, and the manner in which Mr. Vaughan divides this benefaction is worthy of, com- mendation. The parishioners of the adjoining. parish of Lanmaes wonder when will .the powers that be see fit to divide what is known as Basset's Charity. Basset's benefaction consists iu a certain rent-charge on a field situated in Berw-lane. We find that the land is not swallowed up by an earthquake, but the charity is consumed evidently by some one besides the poor of the parish, for it is upwards of six or seven years since they saw or heard anything of the proceeds of this charity. The land is .owned by Mr Basset, Pontypridd, and we hope that he will quickly see that the charity is divided. POSTAL MATTERS AT LANMAES. — The postal authorities have given a backward promotion" to Lan- maes. Until recently the village had a post-office. The villagers could purchase stamps, &c., but in that age of postai development Lanmaes is reduced to a pillar-box, and its inhabitants obliged to go over a mile to procure a stamp. As this is a matter that is felt more severely by the working classes who do not keep a store of stamps, we hope our hon- member, Mr. Williams, will place the matter before the postal authorities. SEASONABLE BENEVOLENCE.—Mrs. Redwood and the Misses Redwood, of Orchard House, Boverton with their usual kind-hearted foresight, kindly gave in Christmas week upwards of twenty dresses and other articles of clothing to the children of Boverton, the clothing being of subtantial quality and well-made. NASH MANOR.—Mr. and Mrs. Carne gave a supper on Boxing Night to the whole of the workmen engaged on the estate, also to men employed in carrying out the alterations at the Manor House. About 50 sat down to a good spread, and a very pleasant evening was afterwards, spent, under tire chairmanship of Mr. Jenkins, foreman carpenter. CANTATA.—The Bethel Baptist Choir, under the leadership of Mr, E, John, rendered the cantata, J Reign of King Christmas," at the Town-hall on Christmas night. The hall was well filled, and the performance reflected credit to Mr. John's training of the choir. Miss C. A. Hopkins' two songs were well sang, and a song by Miss E. Davies was also excellent. The other parts were well sustained by other local artists. Mr. B. Nicholl (The Ham) was chairman, and the proceeds go to the Sunday School fund. MARRIAGE OF A LOCAL LADY TO AN IRISH, M.P. On Tuesday, tho 22nd inst., Mr. Vesey Knox, M.P. for West Cavan, was married at St. Andrew's, High Holborn, to Miss Anne Elizabeth Lloyd, only daughter of the late Mr. William Lloyd, of Great Frampton, in this parish. The Western Mail, writing of the marriage, states that Ireland and Wales shook hands. But it would be more appropriate to write joined hands, for we have no doubt that the early training Mrs. Knox received from her father, a sound Radical, will fit her to become a fitting helpmate to her clever husband in his work, namely, the emancipation of Ireland from oppression and injustice. TEA MEETING AND ENTE?.TAINMENT.-r-The usual tea meeting and entertainment was held at Bethesda-y-Fro on Christmas Day. In the after- noon the teachers, children, and friends, to the number of 100, partook of an excellent repast, the following ladies assisting at the tables:—Mrs. Morgan. Boverton; Miss Hopkins, Boverton Miss Davies, Sigginstone; Miss E. Thomas, Lanmaes Mrs. Jenkins, Boverton:; and Miss S. Morgan, Boverton. In the evening an excellent programme, consisting of recitations and singing, was gone through. Mr. Johnson (Wesleyan minister) took the chair, and by his witty sallies and apt remarks added greatly to the enjoyment of the evening.