The South Wales Star

PENARTH POLICE COURT. MONDAY. E-?.fore Mr. James Ware (in the chair) and Sir. J. Pyke Thompson. SAVAGE ASSAULT BY A WOMAX AT COGAN.— Ellen Allen, a married woman. was charged on remind with assaulting Maw Smith, another married woman, both of Cog.m-row, C<">gan, on the night of the 9th inst. It appeared that shortly before midnight complainant was going home along a hack lane when she was pounced upon by the deieadant, who struck her to the ground and kicked and savagely bit her. Defendant's teeth penetrated through complainant's clothing deeply into her shoulder, rendering her arm quite helpless ever since. She had also baen very ill. and had been attended to by Dr. Aitken. of Penarth. Evi- dence in corroboration of the assault was given by Robert Smith, and Dr. Aitken proved the injuries, stating that erysipelas set in on complainant's shoulder a fey,' days after she was bitten. The defendant said that the complainant had continu- ally molested her and her husband for the past twelve months, and had threatened to do for her." She only bit defendant in self-defence. Mr. Ware said the biting was a most disgraceful affair, and that the defendant had acted most cruelly and cowardly. She would, therefore, be fined £ 2 and costs, or undergo 21 days' hard labour.

BMDGEND PETTY SESSIONS. SATURDAY.—Before Mr. R. W. Llewellyn (chair- man), Major David. Messrs. R. L. Knight, C. P. Davis, and Col. Franklen. THE WAY TO QUIET HER.—John Miles, fnr- naceman, living at Gwendoline-terrace, Maesteg. was charged with assaulting Elizabeth Davics, of Garn-road, on the ISfeh instant Complainant was at her work in the Llwydarth Tinworks on the day in question. and defendant was calling her bad names. She said that if he would do so again she would hit him with the half brick she had in her hand. He then went towards her and hit her a blow with his fist, saying that was the wey to quiet her. Her head was cut on the forehead, and it bled freelv.—Cross-examined She did not in- sult him before he hit her.-)hrgnret Ann Thomas, who worked with complainant, said defendant took the brick out of her hand, and hit her, in the head with it. She heard no words between them.- Police-sergeant George- Hill deposed to the com- plainant's condition shortly after the occurrence. He took her to Dr. Thomas' surgery, where her wound was attended to. It was of r. superficial nature.—For the defence. William Thomas said he first heard complainant call defendant's mother and sister bad names, and use disgraceful language towards him. Defendant did not have the brick in his hand, but defendant, holding up his arm to ward off the blow she aimed at him. it rebounded and hit her. The gaffer had told the girl to leave the defendant alone about a quarter-oi-an- hour previously.—William Price, assistant annealer at the works, gave corroborative evidence, and the case was dismissed. ASSAULT ON THE POLICE.—John Atkins and Mary Ann Atkins, his wife, were charged with assaulting Police-constable Green in the execution of his duty.—Mr. T. J. Hughes, who appeared for the defendants, pleaded guilty on their behalf.— Police-constable Henry Green. stationed at Bridg- end, said that on Thursday night he was on duty at about 10 o'clock at Queen-street, near the Yard Cottage public-house, opposite the shop kept by defendants. He was talking to a man named Baynham, when he saw John Atkins kick hie wife out of doors. He said Where is the b- policeman ?'' and came on and struck witness. Witness took hold of him. when he struck witness again, and they both fell on the floor. While on the floor Mrs. Atkins scratched and kicked him. Witness sent to the police-station for assistance. Mrs. Atkins ran info the shop for a hatchet, but failing to find one she got a saw. and said to wit- ness I'll saw your b arm off if you don't let him go." She was about to use it when Police- constable Rees assisted him. and they took them to the police-station. They were both of them the worse for drink.—Police-constable Rees said the police-constable was struggling with the defen- dant, John Atkins. when he came on.—Mr. Hushes addressed the Bench in mitigation of the offence, pointing out that defendant, John Atkins, had up to recently been a teetotaler, and was now re- garded as a somewhat respectable tradesman. He handed in testimonials to this etfect.-The Chair- man said that when a police constable was assaulted, the offenders were generally sent to gaol, but taking into consideration the good character given defendants by fellow-tradespeople they would impose a fine of t2 upon John Atkins and £ 1 upon Mary Ann At sins, including costs in each case. He hoped this would be a warning as to their futnre conduct. ALLEGED THEFT.—George jt'ishlock, a young man of disreputable appearance, was brought up in custody on remand from the previous Wednes- day charged with stealing on the 1st January last a silver ring, silk neckerchief, two shirts, a comb, and a handkerchief, together of the value of 12s. 6d., the property of Stephen Clifford, an ostler at the Star public-house, Bridgend.—The evidence of Police-sergeant Rowe was confirmed to the effect that he arrested prisoner on Monday morning on his discharge from Cardiff prison, where he had been confined for sleeping out. He was carrying some of the stolen articles in a bundle, and was wearing the shirts. At Canton Police-station he charged prisoner with stealing the articles by breaking open a, box in the lofc or the Scar public- house. He said, '-Yes, I did steal it all, and I suppose I shall get more than six months this time.Stephen Clifford said prisoner was down at Bridgend with a number of horses, and after remaining a few days sleeping in the loft of the stable at the back of the Star hotel. Witness gave him a ride to Fern dale, where he was taken into custody for sleeping out. He had heard about some things being found on him, and, sus- pecting something was wrong, he examined his box at the stable loft on his return home and found the articles missing.-Two previous convictions being recorded against prisoner at Bristol, he was now committed to trial at the quarter sessions. ALLEGED ASSAULT OK THE POLICE.—Joseph Francis a tinworker. living at Penycae, Aberavon, was charged with unlawfully wounding Police- constable James James by striking him on the head with a stone on the previous Saturday night whilst on duty at the Plough-terrace, Taibach. 'There were also summonses against David Francis, David Heathier, and Owen Jenkins, of Taibach, for assaulting the same officer and Lewis Francis --was charged with assaulting Police constable Bailey on the same evening. The whole of the cases arose out of the same transaction, and Heathier. David Francis, and Owen Jenkins were additionally charged with damaging the police- constable's cape. Mr. T. J. Hug lies, who apeaied for the defence of the whole of the men. asked that the cases be heard together, but the charge againt Joseph Francis was considered separately.— Mr. Hughes pleaded guilty to a charge of common assault.—Acting-sergeant James said that at about 11.20 the previous Saturday night, acting on information received he went to Plough- terrace in company with Police constable Bailey, where he found a crowd of people, several of whom were quarrelling. Defendant was there among them. Witness requested him to go away, but he refused. He was kicking another man's hat about the road. Shortly afterwards defendant and others moved towards Gregos-terrace, and after going about 20 yards called out to witness, Come here, you b-^—, we will Sixe Jon what for." Witness again called upon them to go home, when defendant and the others threw stones at them. They ran after the men. and defendant fell down. When witness caught him he asked him his name and address. The man said, Bullock, you b-, take that." and he threw a stone at witness which struck him over the eye. He felt blood running down his face. Defendant also struck him with his fist. After a struggle ,,g defendant got away, but was re-captured by Police- constable Bailey.-Cross-examined by Mr. Hughes He did not take the stone from the defendant's hand. The doctor had attended witness, but was not there that day.-By the Bench: One of the crowd told defendant not to give me his name.—Mr. Hughes, addressing the Bench, stated that defendant had instructed him to admit at once and candidly that he was there, and had a scuffle with the policeman as hard as he could to avoid arrest. He, however, absolutely denied having had the stone 'lll his hand. The stone being produced and ex- amined. he commented upon the fact that a smooth surfaced stone of that kind would not have produced a cut such as was described by the .doctor an "inch and a half in length." Itwes also described as a superficial wound, which would be very improbable if a stone were thrown at such close quarters. The blow with such a stone would have, perhaps, caused a swelling and dis- coloration, but not a cut. If there were a crowd around witness, while struggling with the defen- dant it would be difficult for him to accurately 'detail any such a circumstance, especially as he had one hand on the man. while keeping the other back. His attention would naturally be given to the crowd, since he had defendant already in custody. He asked them whether there was a, case of wounding proved, and upon the Chairman replying in the affirmative, defendant stated, in answer to the charge, that he reserved hi# defence.—Defendant was then committed for trial to the quarter sessions, bail being allowed.- David Francis, David Heathier, and Owen Jenkins were now proceeded against for assaulting the same officer, and also for damaging his cape.—Mr. Hughes represented the defendants. — Acting- sergeant James detailed the circumstances. Whilst arresting the previous defendant, these men (he said) endeavoured to rescue him, David Francis striking him on the face.—Mr. Hughes pleaded guilty on behalf of defendant Francis, but called David Jenkins, a driver living at Peny- cae. to prove that Owen Jenkins was going home with him about this time, and was about a mile away. — William Jenkins proved the alibi on behalf of Heathier. — A batch of testi- monials was handed in on their behalf, and the Chairman said there was a difference of opinion among the magistrates regarding them, which they would get the benefit of.—Mr. Hughes I under- stand that the majority of the magistrates are of opinion that the case should be dismissed.—Lewis Francis was charged with assaulting Police- constable Bailey in the execution of his duty. Mr. Hughes also appeared on his behalf, and pleaded guilty. He also handed in testimonials on their behalf.—David Francis was sent to gaol for 14 days, and Lewis Francis was fined £ 4, including costs, or ten days' imprisonment.—The fine was paid.

CQWBRIDGE POLICE COURT. TUESDAY.—Before Mr. J. S. Gibbon (chairman), Sir J. L. E. Spearman and Mr. D. H. Davies. SJ'OWDALL THROWING. — Thomas John and Walter Bennett, two young mellliving- at Trehen- gill, were charged with" unlawfully obstructing David Hopkins, an officer of the Taff Vale Railway, in the execution of his duty." Mr. S. D. Evans, solicitor, appeared for the defence of Bennett.— Complainant stated that on the 10th of Jinuary last he was returning from Llantrissant on the mail bag trolley. When near Trehengill Bridge he saw defendants, who threw something at him from above. After going about five yards the machine was overturned, owing to a stone being laid on the rail. Witness turned round and saw the men going away. Six weeks ago stones had been thrown at him from the same bridge, but he could not say who threw them.—Cross-examined There were not three persons on the bridge. It was., not possible for the trolley to have overturned owing to his putting the break on quickly.—Rees Griffiths, a farm labourer, living at Penylan Farm, Ystradowen, said he was return- ing from the Maindee Chapel, and when on the bridge they saw the trolley coming. The defend- ants took up some loose snow and threw it at Hopkins on the line. He saw the trolley over- thrown,—Police sergeant Smith said. on being charged with the offence Bennett said, Yes, I threw a snowball." He said that Thomas John and the witness Griffiths were with him. Upon interviewing John he admitted throwing a snow- ball, but expressed his sorrow for doing so.—The Chairman said there was no evidence that de- fendants had thrown any hard substance, but they (the Bench) entirely ideprecated the practice of snowball-throwing at an officer of the railway, and as a warning would fine them 10s. each and costs. DRUXK A^D DISORDERLY.—John Hitchings, haulier, and Thomas Llewellyn, colliers, both of Llanharran, were charged with being drunk and engaging in a fighting contest on the highway at that place on the previous Saturday week.—A fine of 10s. and costs was imposed upon each. STOCK STRAYING. — Thomas Jones, farmer, Village Farm. Penlline, was charged with allowing 16 cattle to stray on the highway on the 10th of this month.—Police-sergeant Martin gave evidence. —Defendant who stated that they went out of the field without his being aware of it. was ordered to pay the costs. — Mary Thomas, Llwynhelig, was similarly charged with allowing 13 sheep to stray on the highway on the 10th inst.—This case was also dismissed upon payment of costs.

A)\VBOROUGH POLICE. ore the Mayor (Alderman Lewis Jenkins) and Alderman E. Jenkins. DRUNK AND DISORDERLY.—John and Francis Smith, man and wife, hawkers, were charged with being drunk and disorderly, and also with com- mitting damage to the amount of 5s. to the window of Mr. Henry Trott, lodging house-keeper. —Prisoners were sent to gaol for 14 days with hard labour.

YSTRAD POLICE COURT. MONDAY.—Before Mr. J. Ignatius Williams (sti- pendiary). and Mr. T. P. Jenkins. UNJUST WEIGHTS.—Griffith Phillips, grocer, Ferndale, was summoned by Superintendent Jones charged with having four unjust weights in his possession, and fined £ 2 and costs. ASSAULT AT BLAENRHONDDA.—William Clarke and John Furse were charged by Elizabeth and William Evans, of Blacnrhondda, with assaulting them on the 16th inst. The complainants were leaving the train at Blaenrhondda station, and a little dog accompanied them. A dog which the defendants had was bitten by the complainant's dog, and Clarke struck Evans on this account. A quarrel ensued, during which both the mother and son were much abused. Mr. J. T. Rhys prose- cuted, and Mr. James Phillips defended, and the defence being that the row was commenced by the complainants.—The Bench, however, thought differently, and fined the defendants £ 1 each for each assault. STEALING COAT, IN TJIE RIIOXDDA.—John Shepherd, a labourer employed by the Rhondda and Swansea Bay Railway Company, was charged with stealing a lump of coal, weighing -iOOlbs.. on the 21st inst., from a siding on the railway, and fined zC2, including costs.—Elizabeth Jenkins and Elizabeth Davies. Tynewydd. were summoned by Police-constable Bryan for a like offence, and fined 5s. each.—Police-constable Davies charged Sarah Thomas, Elizabeth Wood, and Margaret Jones with stealing coal from the Tylorstown Pit on Saturday last. The amount taken was about 2501bs., but the coal was of no value to the owners. Several com- plaints had of late, however, been made, and the defendants were each fined 2s. 6d.

NOTES AND NEWS FROM NANTYMOEL, MR. EDITOR—I have noticed that Nantymoel has been sadly neglected in the Star for several week past, and as your previous correspondent seems to have relinquished the charms of journal- ism for a life-long study of a. charm of another kind, I have ventured to devote my humble ser- vices and my unworthy pen to the readers of the Star in the Valley. I trust that no hot-headed critic will come thundering down on any items sent in for a time at least, as I unfortunately possess a highly-strung sensitive temperament, and a severe word would make me beat a very hasty retreat. A PROBABLE UNIONIST CANDIDATE FOR MID- GLAMORGAN.—A gentleman who is wellvknown in this quarter of Glamorgan is j ust at present feel- ing for a footing in Mid-Glamorgan with a view to contesting the seat in the interests of Unionism. He is an undoubted Radical, and differs only on this one question of Home Rule. His objections to Home Rule for Ireland are based upon personal experience in the sister island, and he knows Ireland well. He is an orator and speaks Welsh fluently. I am not at liberty to divulge his name, but this will transpire shortly if he finally decides upon coming forward. Those best able to judge say it would be' absurd for any such person holding dissentient views to put forward a claim in this extremely radical quarter. EVANGELICAL MEETINGS AT GILEAD.-Some very successful meetings were brought to a close at Gilead on Sunday night with very satisfactory results, as no less than nine converts were secured. At this rate of increase the members of Gilead will soon require increased accommodation. TEMPERATURE OF CHAPELS.—In last week's issue I notice that a contemporary draws the atten- tion of the public to the above matter, and I think it is high time that some improvement should be done in this way. I have heard from medical authority that more people take severe colds by change of temperature than by any other means. It is beyond doubt a great risk to the strongest man to leave a comfortably warm room for the cold atmosphere in some of our chapels. This danger is as great to ministers of these places of worship as to any persons for, as a rule, they are confined for the greater part of the week within a warm cosy study. A TEACHERS' TEA.—I understand that a tea was given to the teachers of the Nantymoel Boys', Girls', Infants' and Wyndham Schools on Friday evening last by Mr. and Mrs. Edwards, who, on the occasion of their marriage, had received great kind- ness from all the staff of the different departments. Tea was on the table at seven o'clock. Some happy toasts were proposed, and received very heartily. A few hours were spent pleasantly in games and songs. DROFSED.

PRINTING of all kinds, LETTERPRESS and LITHOGRAPHIC, done promptly at the "STAR" OFFICE, VERE-STREET, CADOXTOX.-The Parcels Post affording great facilities for cheap and rapid transmission of parcels, the Management will henceforth avail themselves of it to forward small parcels of circulars, &c., to their many country custom- ers. Orders executed by return of post when so re- quired.

CORRESPONDENCE. THE GILFACH GOCH CONCERT. TO THE EDITOR OF THE SOUTH WALES ETAR SIR,—In your issue of last week a brief report appeared of Libanus annual concert, held on January 7. I do not know who your correspondent may be (nor does it trouble me as far as that goes), but one thing is certain, that in sending such a report his intention was not a good one. but he was prompted by some illfeeling towards the mem- bers of the Libanus Church. That is quite plain from his report. Such a remark as first-class tickets were charged for second-rate singers" proves what colour his feathers are. Such an assertion is a gross libel on the committee and the artistes. "Whoever he may be he is a person to be pitied, for the man that cannot rise above sec- tarianism is in a serious position. His soul is cranked up, so that he is blind to virtue in every- body and everything otherwise than that under the auspices of a particular denomination. The wish is the father of the expression" in that case, so the committee have nothing to fear from his report, for all harm in some persons' power was done before the concert—even the ticket- selling was boycotted. The names of the artistes commend themselves they are well tried and very acceptable in the musical world. Miss Davies. A.R.C.M., the star of London concerts Miss Ceinwen Jones, another rising star Afanlais, a good and powerful tenor and E. Evans, a voluminous bass. Taking the concert as a whole, I do not hesitate to say it will compare with the best concert that was held in Gilfach previously.—I am, &c„ OWEN WILLIAMS, Sec. — THE COUNTY COUNCIL ELECTIONS AND I THE DINAS POWIS DIVISION. TO THE EDITOR OF THE SOUTH WALES TJTAR. Put.—I should be glad to know what efforts the Liberal party are making- in view of the forth- coming County Council election in the Dinas Powis division. There should be no delay—if it is intended to oust Squire Jones, of Fonmon—in getting to work. It is idle to expect ever to win the se^t. unless we stubbornly contest the division each time an election takes place. It would be an excellent thing if a conference of the leading Liberals of the division could be at once arranged. Now is the time for all true men to come to the aid of the party.—I am)Wkc.. Bonvilstone. FIGHT AND WIN. -0- CONDITION OF AGRICULTURAL LABOURERS. TO THE EDITOR OF THE SOUTH WALES STAR. Srll,-Councillor Morgan Thomas has made a. mistake in his calculations in the wages of an agricultural labourers of about nine shillings per week, and has also indulged in other exaggera- tions. The statements made by him are not only misleading, but absurd and ridiculous to an ex- treme. In Wales his reference to cases in English counties would have little weight when speaking. I have no wish to quarrel with him over this matter which is not personal to me. only in com- mon with other employers of labour in agricultural districts. I think his statements should not be allowed to pass by unnoticed, as they are unfair to a class of people among whom there are a num- ber at least who have done and are doing every thing in their power to improve the position of every honest working man, men in times of great depression and reduced^ prices of agricultural produce. I should be de lighted to see the day when all agricultural labourers will become elevated to a sense of self respect, when the veil of ignorance will be so lifted up as to dispel the idea that manual labourer is a drudgery, but when it is recognised that a skilful hand guided;by a clear head is an honour to its possessor worthy of its reward, and sure to receive it. When the mind becomes so disciplined as to be able to realise that excellence of character is independent of social position, a working man of a good character will be esteemed to be as respectable as the owner of broad acres or the wealthy man of business Yours, fcc.. W. JENKINS. Rhoose Farm, near Barry, January 20th, 1330.

REVIEWS OF PUBLICATIONS. COMMENTARY ON THE EPISTLE TO THE HEBREWS. (By the Rev. J. M. Jones, Cardiff.)-The above commentary, which has appeared monthly in the '• Lladmervdd for the last two years, has just been issued from the press. (1) The plan of the book —To anyone that has a desire to understand the Epistle to the Hebrews the plan which Mr. Jones has adopted is most advantageous. He has divided the epistle into its natural sections, and at the be- ginning of each section has given an outline of its contents in a short and most pithy way, and any- one who will study these outlines, and have a clear conception of them, will find no difficulty at all in understanding the portion which they embrace. Mr. Jones has done a great deal towards the solu- tion of this difficult book, in giving separate treatises on some important words and passages, such as on consumed," the sacrifices," &c. We may say that the plan, as a whole, is admirably executed. (2) Another rare superiority which belongs to the book, or rather is a general charac- teristic of it, is its cl harness. This is true of it even in the obscurest and profoundest parts of the epistle. There are many commentaries issued from the press which require three or four expositions on them in order to understand their meaning. They tend to darken the meaning of the Holy Word rather than to explain it, and these are very numerous, on some of the epistles especially. This mvstical character of such commentaries is some- times attributed to profoundness of thought, but it should be understood that profoundness of thought is consistent with clearness, and. as a rule, deep thinkers succeed in conveying their thoughts in a clear manner. One of the most conspicuous features of the present commentary is clearness, it is wholly free from the deficiency alluded to. When Mr. Jones deals with the most abstruse problems of the epistle he brings out his mind in such a clear way that everyone can under- stand it easily, and it should be borne in mind that this is not due to shallowness nor lack of logical accuracy. On the contrary, he does not avoid labour to investigate the most difficult parts, and to reason out his views ia the most logical manner. He gives the views of the ablest and most recent expositors whqn dealing with con- troversial passages, and when he cannot see as they do, he has no hesitation in agreeing to differ from them, and when doing so he supports his views almost generally with arguments which are irreputable. In dealing thus with different views, &c., he has succeeded throughout the book not to deviate from this characteristic feature of clear- ness. (3) Its fulness :-A cmaplaint which is all but general against Welsh commentaries is their deficiency in fulness. Without over-praising Mr. Jones in anyway we do not hesitate a moment in saying that a fuller commentary on the Epistle to the Hebrews does not exist in the language. Whatever pains and labour it has cost, he has not over-looked one sentence, or a word that has a special meaning or a rare occurrence without ex- plaining it. All the propositions laid down are stretched out, to their utmost extension but no further on the other hand there is not a word in it that is not necessary in order to complete and make clear the meaning. The above remark will give but a very imperfect conception to the reader of the many excellencies or this most valuable book. Suffice it to say that the author's name is well-known now for many years as a theologian and expositor, and everyone who has read his notes in the Gospel Hand-book." edited by the Rev. W. James, Aberdare, can judge of the value and merit of this book. No one who studies the Epistle to the Hebrews should be without it if he desires to have a true and natural solution of this difficult epistle. Mr. Jones has consulted the best authorities on the epistle from the earliest down to the most excellent commentary recently written by Westcott. Therefore, we have not only the result of his skill and genius as an expositor, but also the cream of the best literature on the epistle combined with his.—D.M.P. Mus. LEACH'S FAMILY DRESSMAKER. (2d.)— With the February number of Mrs. Leach's Family Dressmaker" is presented the full-size paper pattern of a cooking apron and sleevesi with diagram and full directions for cutting out and making. The 300 pairs of gloves are given away as usual, and the issue is replete with all the latest designs in costumes, mantles, &c.

THROAT IRRITATION AND COUGH.—Soreness and dryness, tickling and irritation, inducing cough and affecting the voice. For these symptoms use Epps's Glycerine Jujubes. In contact with the glands at the moment they are excited by the act of sucking, the Glycerine in these agreeable confections becomes actively healing. Sold only in boxes, 7id.; tins, Is. Id.; labelled" J AllIES Epps & Co., Homoeopathic Chemists, London." Dr. George Moore, in his workon "Nose and Throat Diseases," says: "The Glycerine Jujubes, prepared by James Epps and Co are of un- doubted service as a curative or palliative agent," while Dr. Gordon Holmes, Senior Physician to the Municipal Throat and Ear Infirmary, writes After an extended trial, I have found your Glycerine Jujubes of considerable benefit in almost all forms of throat disease." [522-2 There is no remedy in the world equal to LEWIS'S PECTORAL BALSAM for Coughs, Colds, and all Dis- orders of the Langs."—Is. lid. and 2s. 9d. per bottle

MID-RHONDDA GLEANINGS. [BY MIRZA.] L Free Sittings This is the topic which has been discussed at one of the Mid-Rhondda chapels by the church assembled therein, and I am glad that it was sufficiently broad and advanced in its spirit to adopt the measure—a measure which, I think, is full of the Christian charity that the great Master Himself would commend. Henceforth, by a substantia] majority, the sittings at this particu- lar chapel will be declared free to all. The church felt that the principle of rented pews placed a re- straint and barrier on the attendants at God's house that the hearers, at best, found a stumb- ling block in their fear of trespassing on the rights of members, thus preventing them from a full en- joyment of the pulpit ministrations. Now the in- vitation come all," coupled with unconditional free seats, will carry weight, and place all the attendants in the position of welcome and honoured invited guests. This is a step which I hope will be freely followed in our Welsh Nonconformist chapels, for where the feeling of the churches is an anxious one for the spiritual redemption of their neighbours, they will contribute freely in the form of voluntary contributions what they paid before in the spirit of a selfish bargain, to secure for themselves what would mean exclusion for the rest. Moreover, I think that free seats in a church must cure it of that Welsh pest—un- punctuality. The church friends at St. Andrew's, Llwynpia, have long ago adopted the plan, which is well worthy of imitation by all churches .alike, ind I have no manner of doubt that its general adoption will greatly swell the attendants at our places of worship. The second Gilchrist lecture has been delivered, ind was a great success in every sense. The weather, and a jubilee service with the Rev. Ossian Davies preaching, prevented a full attondance at ;he first lecture, but last Tuesday night there was t full audience, and, moreover, the lecturer. Dr. Roberts, was a Welshman. The excellent photo- graphs and diagrams thrown on the screen by Mr. 3arbutt, the lanternist, made every point of the ecture clear to the audience, who could follow mt each step of the disintegration of the rocks by latural agencies, and the re-formation of the land —" The ruins of the old land furnishing the mate- rials of the new." He made it clear, also. that iaxonia, with all its boasted greatness, had really Jeeu formed from the broken materials'of a greater Vales, which even yet formed an underlying solid 'oundation for England's fair meads and pastures. )ne criticism only I would fain make. It is strange ihat the first map of Great Britain shown was gather incorrect in its topography and spelling— 'or example, the Scotch island Lewis was marked Skye," while the mountains of Wales were printed Cambian (sic) Mts." In every respect other ,han this map the lecture was excellent. It ought ,0 be mentioned that the lecturer gave the head- ngs of his lecture in such pure, excellent Welsh ;hat the audience was fairly electrified, and wished 1e had given a little more of the mother tongue. A word of praise is due to Sergeant Hoyle for ;he courageous way in which he acted this week. k. presentation party was held at one of the local publichouses, the landlord being the presentee. rhe sergeant entered the place at 11.40, and found ;he house open in full business, and sixty persons issembled, and amongst them persons of good standing. Having on enquiry found out that no extension of hours had been applied for, or granted, bhe sergeant, spite of the influential presence of bhose assembled, felt constrained from a sense of luty to summon the landlord. He has evidently made himself unpopular with those present, but, in the interests of the public welfare, he manfully did his duty. preferring rather to do what was right rather than court popularity by allowing tin law to be broken by persons who, to say the least ought to know better. The landlord was con victed by tife magistrates, who thus justified the action of the sergeant.* I see in the papers that Mr. Tom Price's cantata. Y Mab Afraadon." has been a great success, and he is deservedly lauded. I regret, however. thai the name of the librettist. Mr. Glynfab Williams editor of Youikj llra?''x. and of the translater ol the Welsh libretto into English, Mr. R. L. Davies, are lost si^ht of. Mr. Williams is a well-known racy Welsh literary contributor to some Welsh periodicals, nombly" Cydvmaithyr Aelwyd." and I hope the Star will sometimes have the benefit ol his writings.

PENCOED NOTES. LBY ROVER.J THE COMING FIGHTS. This year bids fair to prove a lively one. It is almost certain that we shall have a general elec- tion before it is out. and the County Council elec- tions will be with us in less than two months. Mr. A. J. Williams is doing splendid work throughout the length and breadth of his constituency, and everywhere he is met with the greatest cordiality and enthusiasm. He is met, too. by the electors, and not by a parcel of women and children, such as go forth to cry Abrec" before Sir Morgan Morgan. The honourable member, accompanied by Mabon, M.P., will address the electors at Ponty- clown on Monday next. I anticipate a splendid meeting. The Llantrisant people are Liberal to the core, and Sir. Williams, who was a neighbour of theirs for a time. is a gentleman after their own hearts, and they will give him a right hearty wel- come on Monday. THE COUNTY COUNCIL ELECTION. As far as the Pencoed division is concerned. I am afraid we are not going to have very civil times in March. There is neither siw na miw that anv Conservative, Liberal Unionist, nor Independent forsooth is going to muster courage enough to attempt the hopeless task of ousting Councillor Howells, and it is more than probable that that gentleman is going to have a walk over. Per- sonally. I must say that I rather regret this. but when we remember how the figures stood at the close of the contest three years ago, we cannot in any way be surprised at it. THE RECENT FIRE AT COYCKURCH. Mr. Evan Thomas, the genial and popular land- lord of the White lIorse, Covchurch. where the great conflagration occurred on Monday night week, has the deepest sympathy of a large circle of friends. It is more than time that thatched houses and old-fashioned chimneys containing wooden beams should be done away with. especially in the case of publichouses. where large fires are generally kept. The only redeeming feature of the sad affair at Coychurch is that it will necessitate a new and better house. The old house was, of course, a very comfortable one, but it was any- thing but modern. A FACE THAT WILL BE MISSED. Mr. Griffiths, of Penlan. succumbed to his illness on Saturday last. and his familar and jolly face will be greately missed by everybody here. His 1 uniform kindness to all classes of society had endeared him to all. and his memory will be cherished for many days to come. He leaves a widow and. I believe, eleven children to mourn the loss of a loving husband and a faultless father. The remains of Mr. Griffiths will be interred in the burial grounds of the ancient church of Llan- ilid on Thursday next, and as I hear that the funeral is to be a public one, I have no doubt it will be very largely attended. MUTILATING HYMNS. I am sorry to say that I often hear some of our beautiful Welsh hymns sadly mutilated in some I chapels in this neighbourhood, and to make matters worse, the sinners are not confined to laymen. Of course it would be out of place for me here to name any chapels, but I hope the offenders will I take the hint in the spirit in which it is given. The late Dr. Edwards mentions in one of his incom- parable literary essays the case of a man some- where who had set his heart on composing a new tune to those beautiful words, Onr] boed fy nghalon i mewn hwvl, Fel telyn Dafvdd ar yr wyl. The composer, however, did not care for the reference in the hymn to the harp, and he resolved to make it read thus, Ond boed fy nghalon i'r pryd hyn, Fel Dafydd g-Yllt a'i violin. By way of greater improvement still some wag suggested to the musician the following- rendering. Ond acd fy nghalon diddle, diddle, Fel Dafydd bach yn canu 'r fiddle.

NOTES FROM LLANTWTT- MAJOR. Through the death of the Rev. Lewis Morgan the living of Eglwysbrewis has become vacant, and speculation is rife as to who will be the lucky recipient of the living. The pay is good, the work not hard—only twenty-one souls counting men, women and children in the parish—and the average attendance 2.50 therefore. is it to be wondered that the children of this world who are to win in their day and generation are striving every nerve to secure such a sinecure. The living is the gift of the popular squire of Penllergare, Sir T. T. D. Llewellyn, and there are only two runners left in the race. Number one is at present rector of an adjoining parish in re- ceipt of a salary of between 400 and 500 pounds. He is also in receipt of :C400 as rector of another parish. But, like the horse leech, he still cries More, more" (filthy lucre we mean, not souls). Number two living is not so good besides, his parish is not so large and, as a consequence, the work not so great; but notwithstanding these re- commendations, a sporting friend offers to bet us a gold watch to a wooden leg on number one. The odds are very tempting, but when our friend re- minded us of the efforts made by number one to secure the return of Sir John, then plain Mr. Llewelyn, as member for South Glamorgan in 1885, we refused the bait. When Sir John was wooing South Glamorgan, he was often asked would he vote for Disestab- lishment, and fenced with the question something as follows—" I would not vote for Disestablish- ment, because you want Disendowment, and I do not see that fair. But I will vote for a great measure of reform in the Church of England." We wonder if a plurality of livings is one of the re- forms which Sir John meant. Actions speaks stronger than words. Electors of Gower, learn, mark and inwardly digest. I

THE SOUTH WALE8 FURNISHING COMPANY (LIMITED). No establishment in the district will better repay a visit than the South Wales Furnishing Company's premises, at 31, Castle-street, Cardiff. The company are manufacturers, as well as retail traders, and are, therefore, in a position to guarantee the quality as well as the cheapness of the article. Their eleven showrooms should cer- tainly be visited by all who wish to furnish a house well and cheaply.

SEEDS! SEEDS! SEEDS! A SPLENDID SELECTION of VEGETABLE and FLOWER SEEDS, direct from Messrs. Cooper, Taber, and Company, the largest Seed Growers in Europe. Please apply for Catalogues. and compare with Cardiff prices. W. R. HOPKINS- PHARMACEUTICAL AND DISPENSING CHEMIST (by Exam.), HIGH-STREET. BARRY. VERE-STREET, CADOXTOK. [G93 BUSINESS ANNOUNCEMENTS inserted in the SOUTH WALES STAR, the most widely-read newspaper in South and Mid-Glamorgan, at compara- tively low terms, for periods rang-ing from three to twelve months. WOODHAM AND SON, HIGH-STREET, BARRY, GREENGROCERS AND POTATO MERCHANTS. All Kinds of Fish Dailv when in Season. GENERAL HAULIERS. A Brake for Picnic Parties for the Summer Season. Dog-cart on Hire. [623 FURNITURE REMOVED AND WAREHOUSED ABERNETHY'S COMPOUND COUGH BALSAM.—A safe and effectual remedy for Coughs, Colds, Difficult Breathing, and all complaints of Chest and Lungs.—Prepared by J. AnERNETHY, Medical Hall, High-street, Cadoxton, Barry. 9-65 JM PORTA NT T I C E C II n 1ST 31 ASS II ° W OF JjlANCY Q_OODS. I JJ OWELL AXD QOMPAXY'S -NJL GREAT SHOW OF FANCY GOODS IS 0 W PROCEEDING. JL JL jQOLLS, TOYS, BOOKS, CABINETS. WAR etc., etc., AT LESS THAN WHOLESALE PRICES. JJ OWELL and COMPANY are also SELLING several CLEARING LINES at less than Manu- facturers' Prices. 9 0Q0 PAIRS BLANKETS, SHEETINGS, QUILTS, COUNTERPANES, FLANNELS, REAL SOUTH WALES FLANNELS, PRINTS, CALICOES, Sac. SEVERAL VERY CHEAP LINES IN FURS. MANTLES, JACKETS, FUR-LINED CLOAKS, MACKINTOSH CLOAKS. SHAWLS, &c., AT WHOLESALE PRICES. ANY VERY GOOD AND CHEAP LINES IN DRESS GOODS. T ADIES' READY MADE DEPARTMENT CONTAINS 297 CHILDREN'S AND MAIDS' READY-MADE DRESSES AT NEARLY HALF THE ORIGINAL PRICES. QLOTHING CLUBS AND CHARITABLE INSTITUTIONS WILL FIND, AS USUAL, AN IMMENSE ASSORTMENT OF GOODS SUITABLE TO THEIR WANTS. JJOWELL AND Co., rpHE CARDIFF DRAPERS, CARDIFF. ROYAL CLARANCE PANTOMIME. ,OF 'Dick IMttiagton.' GRAND PERFORMANCE EACH EVENING OE ::1m. w. SMITHSONS ECLIPSE PANTOMIME I Produced on a most Elaborate Scale, regardless of expense. Starring Engagements of the DOLLY VAR.DEN BALLET TROUPE Those clever Knock-about Artistes— THE BROTHERS DIAMOND AND O'REGAN. The complete caste includes MISS LAURA NOLAN, A Charming Vocalist and Dancer. Miss Madge Yates, Miss Florry Smithson, Miss -s Edith Cairns, Miss Kitty Phelps, Mr. Charles Homer, MAJOE GANA And his wondrous Spectrina. Mr. H. P. Cave, Mr. Fred Ingram, Mr. Arthur Prescott. lilr N. E. Price. Master Harrison, Mr. J. J. Glover, and Mr. Will Smithson. Superb Scenery and Effects specially painted and designed for Mr. Smithson's Pantomime. Ballet Dances. Maypole Dances, and Harlequinade. Don't forget that a DAY PERFORMANCE will take place on SATURDAYS at 2.30. [635 PEOPLE'S Pip, PONTYPRIDD. Teiy Attractive. Cd. J 11. Lïl (:U U. V t¡, I u.1 u LJ .l:' Sure to Please. Always Something New. For all particulars apply to 1,11'. A. C. BEERE, 779J Secretary OWEN'S HAIR DRESSING.—A Speciiic for Nourishing and •Preserving the Hair. Renews the Hair in casfs of Baldness. Stays the Falling Off. Restores the Hair to its Natural Colour. Produces luxuriant Whiskers and Moustaches. Sold in Bottles at 2,6 and 1 each by OWEX, 27, EDWARD-STREET, QCEEN-STREET, CAKDIFF 151, Oaruift New Market Hall. Local Agents—J. Jones, Ciiemist, Holton-road, Barry Dock: VI. R. Hopkins, Chemist, High-street, Barry; W. R. Hopkins, Chemist, Vere-street, Cadoxton: W. H. Key, Chemist, TaiT- street, Pontypridd^and all Chemists. 733 EDV.&QULD&CO. I Drapers, BARRY, ARE NOW SNOWING -GL U J- U AUTUII NOYELTIES. .N U A LARGE AND SELECT ASSORTMENT OF LADIES' AND CHILDREN'S Waterproofs, Mantles, Jackets, u (.. l\ è, tJ t", Capes, Ulsters, '1..iLU D, IX ENGLISH S. GERMAN MANUFACTURE. Tlje Cheapest and Largest Selection in the District, THE NEWEST DESIGNS AND COLOURS IX Wool Shawl*, Eryri Wraps, Snowdon Wraps, Tennis Wraps. MANTLES & JACKETS MADE TO ORDER. FIT GUARANTEED. ——— 719 YOUR INSPECTION is SOLICITED. -JI- LONDOIT,, CARDIFF, and SWAISEA. REGULAR STEAM COMMUNICATION. THE LONDON and BRISTOL CHANNEL COMPANY'S First Class, Full Poneroil STEAMERS are intended to sail (casiinlitics ex- cepted, and as per conditions on Company's sailing bills) From LONDON, Pickle Herring Tier and, or Gun and Shot harf, EVERY SATURDAY. From CARDIFF, East Bute Dock Basin, for London {via Swansea), EVERY WEDNESDAY. Continental and through rates arranged. Low rates hrough from London to Pontypridd, Aberdare, and Merthyr, per Steamer and Glamorgan Canal. For Particulars apply to Messrs. Matthews and Luff, 102. Fenchurch-street, London, E.C.; Mr. F. H Tucker, 13, Adelaide-street, Swansea; or to WM. COLLINGS, Jus., & Co., 738 104, Bute-street, 0