Merthyr Times and Dowlais Times and Aberdare Echo

MERTHYR CHAMBER OF TRADE AND POSTAL FACILITIES. In future the nortii mail will reach Merthyr with the first London aud North Western train, instead of with the Taff Vale via Cardiff. This arrangement will probably date from the let of March, and will b. a gain for the Merthyr people of close upon two hours. The letters for Merthyr Vale and Troedyrhiw, according to present arrangements, would be sent down with the 10.35 Taff. But the Chamber of Trade, at their meeting on Tuesday, resolved to ask Mr, D. J. Evans, the president, to wait on Mr. C. Wilkin?, tho po'-tnmter, to ascertain whether the letters could not bo forwarded down the valley by the first Taff. Mr. E v ans saw Mr. Wilkins on Wednes- day, and was informed that if an application was made to the postmaster from the localities interested the request would bo granted. A REMARKABLE LITTER OF PIGS. The town of Mountain Ash seems to be a very pro- lific spot for the breeding of pigs. On Monday morning a sow belonging to Mr. Richard Morgan, estate carpenter to Lord Aberdare, gave birth to nineteen little mochyns." Out of this extraordinary number seventeen were born alive and two dead. The sow commenced giving birth at 5.30 a.m., and the la«t pig saw the light of day at 7.0 p.m. the same night. As a matter of course tho mother was rendered very ill, but the 17 young ones are all alive, and can be seen at Mr. Richard Morgan's residence, 10, Jeffery- street.

To OVERCOMB WEAKNESS.— Pepper's QUINTN aiid Iron Totiie -.Ix-es New (.if". Health, Strength, and Energy Insist on having Pepper's Quinine Advt.

MERTHYR SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION. POINTS AT ISSUE. lEr IANTO Goes.] Dai: Well, Jim, I've lieen thinking over what you said last week about the State Schools and Sectarian Schools. Jim Any talk about it in tho Roaring Lion ? Dai: Yes, no end of talk. Most of us agreed that the Statp, represented, as you say, by the School Boards, should undertake the elementary education of our children that the schools ehould be run in thl) interests of education only, and not in the interests of sects that they should be so conducted that all children could be sent to them without the least interference in any way with their denominational training; that, maintained as they are by public funds, they should be controlled by public representa- tives, elected by the people. Jim: That's right, Dai. Always insist on the great fundamental principle that public support should cany with it public control. Dai Now, Jim, don't you bamboozle me with big words, or I shall not bo able to follow you. Well, there was one thing that puzzled us a bit. We quite agree with what you say, and we are all for State Schools. But if a sect chooses to set up a school of its own, how does that affect the general public outside that sect. Jim A very good question, Dai. Let me try and explain the matter. In the first place, you are aware that these Sectarian Schools get nearly all their income from public funds. Dai: 80 I undeis^and. Jim But that the public have no manner of control over them. Is that right. Dai: He who pays the piper should call the tune that's my motto, Jim. Jim Think, for instance, of a Catholic School; the children are taught to become devout Catholics, to regard the Church of Rome as the only true religion, and to look on all other churches a3 heretical. hit right that this should be done at the expense of the public ? Dai: It's a blooming shame, Jim. The whole basis of the thing is utterly wrong. It's takingyouf money and mine to manufacture narrow-mindedness, sec- tarian jealousy, and religious bigotry. Jim Now let us proceed a step farther. Just think what the position of a Sectarian School is. We are talking generally now, understand, and not deal- ing particularly with any local schools. Dai: You mean a Sectarian School where thoro is a Board School Jim Just 80. The Sectarian School gets the Government grant like any other school. That is the main source of its income. But that is not enough, wo will suppose, to cover the expenses. In that case the deficit must be made good by private subscrip- tions. Dai Aye, which come from tho pockets of people who have to pay School Board rates as well. I don't understand how these people are soft enough to sub- scribe to a petty, miserable school of their own, while the children could be sent to a much superior school, to a school where they would get far better education. Jim Only one thing explains it, Dai, and that is the power of the priest, whether in the English or the Roman churches. Dai I would let the blessed priest go to Jericho. Jim That is the growing opinion among Church- men. They are getting tired of subscribing to the priests and paying School Board rates. And what is the result ? Dai That the Sectarian schools are short of cash, I suppose. Jiui Precisely so. Their funds arc low all over the country, and will keep getting lower and lower, in all probability. Churchmen want to be satisfied with the State schuob, if the priests would only let them alono and the time will come when all the wheedling arts of the priestrf will fail to screw out of them the necessary funds. Dai What was it I saw some time ago about the archbishop's committee ? Jim This committee was appointed to investigate the matter, and the report was that half-a-million of money was wanted to keep the schools croing. They want this enormous sum from Church of England folk. Dai Are they going to get it, Jiui ? Jim It will take them all their time to manage it, I should say. And this half-million is not the only money they want they also ask the Government to pay the full salary of thfir staffs of teachers. Ihi: What about public control ? Jim Not a syllable. But the main point I want you to notice is this the Sectarian schools are iu a bad way. For the Catholic schools are quite as bad, if not worse than tho Church Schools. They can't wheedle enough money out of their flocks. In conse- quence of lack of funds the efficiency of their schools suffers. Their buildings are inadequate and un- healthy, their staffs of teachers are insufficient and inefficient, and the schools generally are left behind in the educational race. They can't keep up with tho State schools. Dai But how are they able to comply with the re- quirements of the Education Department? Jim They are not able far from it. Mr. Acland, some timo ago, wanted to get some of them to comply to a greater degree than they did. There was a great outcry against him all through the country. The Department is very lenient and merciful to these Sec- tarian schools, and allow them to do things, or rather not to do things, which it would not dream of in the case of the Hoard Schools. Dai So they are in a bad way, generally. Jim: la i very bad way, and getting worse year after year. Even the Times advises them to throw up the sponge. The advice is not likely to be adopted, worse luck for the children And what do vou think is the little game played by the Sectarian schools. Dai They will try to get more money out of the rates. .Jim That is our card, but they do not set much value an it. They do not think the people of this country will give them more money unless they set the control of the schools into their own hands. Dai Have they another card to play ? Jim Yes, and it is this they are trying to stop the progress of the Board schools, so that their miser- able schools may keep pace with them. As they can- not ciimb any higher they are trying to drag the Board schools down to their level. Dai Are they bound to try and keep pace with the Board schools, Jim? Jim If they fall too far behind their schools will be discredited, and even their ovvu people will send their children to the Board schools. They are bound to fall behind unless— Dai Unless thevgot more money? Jim Y es, and failing to got more money, they can only try and stop the Board schools for going on quite so fast. Dai That would be an injustice to our children, Jim ? Jim Of course it would, but what do the Sec- tarians care for that? Not a brass button. The interest of their sects is the only thing they study, "and to that they would readily sacrifice the intellec- tual welfare of the children. A priest is a peculiar being, you know, though some priests, I admit, are very good men. Dai But do tho Sectarian candidates say they want to reduce the efficiency of the Board Schools ? Jim Not they; if they did that they know they would never be elected. What they say is that they go in for" economy." Dai Ah, I think I understand now what that cry of economy really means. Jim It is a dishonest cry, Dai, used only as a pre- text. In the case of the Merthyr School Board, there has been no extravagance. As we have seen, the ex- penditure is below tho average, while the efficiency, as shown by the Government grants, is above the average. There cannot have been any extravagance. And you remember that the rate is— Dat Only Is. 2id. iu the pound for last year. Of course, I believe in economy myself. Jim So do I, but I tell you what economy in this case means the reduction of efficiency. If you spend less money the schools are bound to suffer. We must fight, Dai, for the education of our children. Dai When I hear a candidate talking of cconomy I will now know what he means. Jim Especially when that candidate happens to be a priest of any church, orthe manager of the school of any sect. MR. C. H. JAMES AND THE INDEPENDENTS. A very representative meeting of townsmen favour- able to efficient and unsectarian education was held on Monday evening last at the Abermorlais Girls' School for the purpose of hearing an address by Mr. Charles Henry James, J.P., on the question of un- sectarian education. Mr. H. W. Sou they, J.P., presided. Mr. C. H. James, in the course of a brilliant and somewhat lengthy speech, dealt with the question in a lucid manner. He said that efficient education did not mean cheap education. The education of little children should be like water, pure and the best that could be obtained. Eiffciency, in the first place, meant good teachers, and when the Board had to appoint a new teacher for the school he purposely shut his eyes to anything relating to the religious opinions of the various candidates for the post (bear, bear). The Board should take every trouble in choosing a teacher, but once be had been ohosen ho should be given a free hand. They should not in any way be interfered with until they were found guilty of a grave breach of duty, or a great fault (hear, near). Young Mr. Menelaus, of Dowlais, when talking abeut the choice of agents, remarked that the great secict of the success of an undertaking was the apjKiintment of a good agent or manager. People, be believed, should take as much time and pains as possible in choosing an agent or a manager in order to secure the best possible man, but once he had been chosen he should be given a free hand, and he (Mr. James) agreed with this view (hear, hear). Another matter regarding the management of schools was that they should have sufficient teachers. This meant expense, of course, but he did not think,taking everything into consideration, that the Merthyr School Board had been over lavish in this matter. The staff- ing of schools such as were under the jurisdiction of tho Merthyr School Board was a very difficult matter, when they bad to deal with large schools like Dow- lais, and small schools like C'lwydfagwr. Each class should have a separate teacher, but in the case of smull schools this was almost an impossibility, and the number of teachers per child varied considerably in each school. He contended, however, that the Board bad done what was fair aud right in the interest of the children and the ratepayers, and they had tried their very best to make every school efficient (applause). There were very often changes in the staffs which constantly required filling up. Their teachers, male and female, left there for other Boards, where they received more remuneration. They went to Cardiff and to Barry, where they received better pay, and that in itself proved that the teachers did not get too much money as compared with other schools. And if anyone present were to come to the schools during working hours and see the work there was to be done, he felt sure they would agree with him that the teachers were not overpaid. It was a hard and trying work, requiring training and education, and it wai only fair anu reasonable that good teachers should have proper pay (applause). Good buildings and classrooms with sanitary arrangements and proper apparatus were ulso required ia order to make the schools efficient. This all meant money. The Board bad been con- tinuallypressed by the Go vernment to make thei rschools more efficient in these ways and to provide better accommodation for the children. He felt very strongly in this matter (hear, bear). Further, in order to acquire efficiency, the children should be compelled to attend regularly at the schools. The schools could never be made efficient when the children were allowed to como and go just as they pleased. He took upon himself the other day to send a copy of a speech he had delivered on this question to Lord Aberdare, and his lordship said: "Wel!, you must wait patiently, for you will never have proper attendances at the schools until the children of the present generation became parents themselves. Then the fruit of your work will be seen." He felt sorry that there were a number of parents who would not or could not, or positiveiy refused to send their children to school with that regularity which they ought to. Then they did not keep pace with the children who did, and the whole tone' of the school was kept town. This showed want of discipline, and it was a very important matter that they should do their very best to get more regularity of attendance at the schools (applause). The Government only paid their fee grant according to the regularity of the children: so if the schools were "well- attended the fee grant received by the School the children: so if the schools were well- attended the fee grant received by the School Board would be so much greater each quarter (hear, hear). But some people in this town of Merthyr rose I up indignant, and pretended that there was a great deal of hardship involved upon the poor parents who were summoned before the magistrates. When a parent did not do his duty towards his child ho (Mr. James) believed that parent should be punished with the utmost rigour of the law, and serve them very well right, too (applause). He would like if lenH-Y ratepayer in Merthyr were to read that admirable triennial report by the clerk of the School Board. In that they would find that 874 notices had been issued to parents, and that 515 summonses were issued. They might take it for granted that these summonses were not issued except to people who really deserved them. These were tho cases where the parents were convicted for drunkenness, assault, and battery, whichlthey had to hear, and the poor unfortunate children bad to suffer (shame). It was said thai there was an unsectarian majority on the School Board, but be felt surprised that they had the impudence to say so when every sect or chapel was anxious not to be represented by the best men in Merthyr, but by men who upheld their religious views and opinions. It was a scandal and a shame (applause). He did not think the Merthyr people could boast of an unsectarian majority when the members interested were too ready to represent a par- ticular place of worship, or religious sect or party (applause). Ho should like to say a word or two all to what a School Board member ought to be. He should at any rate be a man of education, for a man who had been reasonably well educated had a better claim than a man who lacked that education (hear, hear). Although he did not like to say anything against the members of the present Board, he could claim to be as fairly intelligent and well-educated as many of them (hear, hear). Then a School Board member should be independent (hear, hear), indepen- dent of all sects, of all chapels, of all parties and politics, and independent of everything except the true interests of the children (applause). He was still an Independent in religion, but he was indepen- dent of Independents in the matter of education (bear, hear). A member of the School Board .should also have plenty of backbone, and be able to say no" very emphatically when necessity called upon him to do so. It was a great pity that School Boards had the option of allowing children to leave school at a certain age, and he believed that the age at which a child shouid leave school should be laid down by the State (applause). He knew of some instances where persons in a particular chapel went to a member and influenced him to allow the child to leave school before the proper time, and these members exer- cised power they had and granted the request in order that a parent may have a few shillings a week more because that child went to work (shame). A School Board member should also have a certain amount of leisure to attend to his work. He could then visit the schools and take an interest in educa- tion, which he could not otherwise. He could sym- pathise with the teachers in their work, and by doing so would increase the efficiency of the schools. Some members of the Board visited the schools and treated the teachers and the children with scant courtesy, instead of trying to appreciate their difficulties and sympathise with them in their work. The School Board Clerk had prepared a table of the attendances made by the members of the Board at the meeting and committees, and he found that out of a possible 190, he (Mr. James) had attended 121 times during the past three years, while he had attended the various schools quite as many times but these visits could not very weil be recorded. Proceeding, the speaker pointed out that a member of a School Board sliould have an unbiassed mind, that when a discussion took place at the Board h« should try to see both sides of the question, judge fairly and reasonably, and then be as firm as possible, having made up his mind, and not, like some, hot- headed and anxious to drive their opinions to the bitter end (applause). Having told them what the duties were, it was for them to judge how far he had justified his election during the past three veal's. He had told the Independent Committeo that- if they could prove that any of their candidates possessed those qualifications in a greater degree than he did, he would willingly retire to-morrow. He was not going to make promises of what he would do if he was elected, IA;t he could tell them that he would not represent any particular sect or class, but would endeavour to further efficient and unsectarian educa- tion (applause). Ho feared they had had too much experience of committees in Merthyr, committees called together to do work which they were not fitted to do. That was an argument which could be proved by the result of the Parliamentary election, when a comparatively unknown man, who belonged to a par- ticular feet, was thrust upon the constituency. If this committee had not done their work badly, that candidate would not have been defeated. The same might be said about the recent elections, and for the future he, for one, would never bind himself to vote for any candidate chosen by a committee, unless he approved of the candidate himself (loud applause). There was no doubt about the f.ict that the Liberal and Nonconformist Party in this town was thoroughly divided. They ought to have taken the trouble to select the best men irrespective of religious belief. Proceeding, Mr. James read the communications which had passed between himself and the Independent Committee, and the letter he had received was curt, but not courteous. They thanked him for his sen ices in the past, and then sent him a letter such as this If he had a cook or a housemaid who had served him faithfully for three year", he would not have treated her with such a scant courtesy such as this. Although he had published these letters, he had not vet received an apology from the committee. Now/he would place himself in their hands, for if he would be returned by their help, and if elected, there would be at least one independent member on the Board to pro- test against the Sectarian spirit still rampant in tneir midst (applause). He had received promises of sup- port from the Rev. Charles Angwin and his Wesleyan Friends, from some of the colliers, and from the Jewish Rabbi in the town (applause). A number of gentlemen then spoke as to the merits of Mr. James as a member, and of the good work he had accomplished during the three years he had been on the Board. A letter was read from Mr. Peter Williams, following in the same strain, hoping that he would be triumphantly returned to the School Board, and that ho would allow himself to become a candidate for the Town Ward seat of the County Council (applause). Mr. D. J. Evans, referring to the splendid address delivered by Mr. James, said he quito agreed with the sentiments expressed, and had very great pleasure in proposing that they ask Mr. James to' continue his candidature. It would be impossible for them to find a letter man to represent them on the Board (apphmse).-Mr. John Jones seconded, and a number of other gentlemen supported, after which the motion was put to the meeting and carried unanimously. THE COMMITTEE'S REPLY. The committee deeply regret that Mr. C. H. James should rush to the press and use what was intended as a compliment, which honourable men thought due from them to a gentleman who accepted their help and support to become a member of the School Board for the last three years, as a means to create sympathy with him in the present election. They also wish to state that they were not dis- satisfied on the whole with his conduct on the Board, although they cannot forget that he remained neutral on a question upon which Independents have given no uncertain sound—that of public control of all State-aided schools. This is not, howev er, the reason why he was not selected by them this time. They felt bound, in the present contest, to select candidates who would command the general support of the constituency to which they had to appeal, and in deference to the wishes of a very large number of educationalists in the Churches, Mr. Daniel, as an old and tried friend of education, and a man of unusual tact and ability who has stood in the forefront of educational battles, and the Rev. J. Thomas, as a man who is well-known and very much appreciated for his ability, and who is moreover approachable to the Welsh-speaking popu- lation, were selected as the two candidates who were most likely to be returned by them in the struggle which is being made by the Roman Catholics and Churchmen for predominance. The committee appeal to Mr. James and to the general body of the electors to look upon the matter lD a. calm and impartial manner, and although they wish him well and would gladly return him if it were possible to do so, they venture to hope that he will not allow himself to be made a tool of for the purpose of prejudicing tho position of the selected candidates, and of preventing them from doing their share towards securing the victory for Free Education —free from every intolerance, free for every child in the parish, whether Church, Catholic, or Noncon- formist; but conic what may, the committee are determined to stand to their guns.—For the Com- mittee, I). L. Jones, Secretary. There if no reason to fear that there will be too few applicants for the vacant seats on the School Board. Tho only members of the late Board who have declined to be nominated are the late chairman, Mr. Thomas Wi!!iam", J.P., whose loss all will deprecate. and the Rev. R. S. William?, of All the others, it is believed, will seek the suffrages ,f the people, in addition to a host of new comers, some whom are popular, and others who are not so well known. For instance, we have, first of all Mr. C. If. Janit'S, known. For instance, we have, first of all Mr. C. If. Janit'S, J.P., who, to-day perhaps is more popular than evtT he was. Notwithstanding the fact that he has broken loose from the traces of what is generally termed a por- he was. Notwithstanding the fact that he has broken loose from the traces of what is generally termed a Por. tion of the Nonconformist caucus, he is considered to be safe for a seat, even if he does Dot stand high 11p oo the poll. Of the two other Independent candidates, jV £ r. W. L. Daniel and Rev. John Thomas, opinions Yary- It is believed that Mr. Daniel may throuch his owxi personal popularity, poll sufficient votes to secijro a I seat, whereas on the other hand the Independents- of the borough are not considered strong enough to seci re the return of the Rev. John Thongs. Tho I' facu that the Independents have thrown mi-or Mr. ChnrleH Henrv James, who is regarded as Che of the most practical and efticie.it members of tho Board, has incited the indignation of the populace, and a reaction has set in in his favour. The Independent vote is divided, whilst the Jews, the Wesleyans, and the Unitarians will give almost a Solid vote to Mr. James. In addition to that he is certain of support from Liberal Churchmen and Baptists. Mr. Dan Thomas, who has issued a thort but independent" address, will, it is generally thought, secure election. He has not declared his policy, but depends mainly upon personal popularity, and the fact that be has so strenuously opposed what he terms j the partiality and extravagance of the retiring Board." j The Church party in Dowlais will be represented at the poll by the Rev. LI. M. Williams, tha rector, a i popular man, and one, by the way, who will h<ve a 'I large following of his own. In Merthyr Vale, Mr. Gray, the old member, is confronted with Mr. Arthur Daniel, a staunch I Liberal, and Unpoctarian educationist. Then there is Mr. Joseph Owen to be reckoned with, and inas- much as he comes out with an independent policy, I and makes no promises, it is believed he will secure a seat. I In Treharri*, the battle still waxeth hot. Mr. Henry Davies and Mr. W. M. Evans are making a 1 desperate fight, but it is pretty generally feared that the two will be defeated. One local candidate might easily be returned two cannot be returned without complete and absolute unanimity. i A deputation from Treharris was introduced by Councillor Prosser to the Technical Instruction Com- mittee of Glamorganshire on Tuesday. These gentle- men stated that it was tho unanimous wish »f the ratepayers of that place that Mr. Henry Da vies, the County Council mining lecturer, should represent I them on the Merthyr School Board, and they wished to know if tho Council would take any objection to Mr. Davies filling this post.—The Revs. W.Jones and W. W. Nicholas emphasised this wish of the Treharris people, aud after some lictle discussion, in Treharris people, and after some lictle discussion, in which it waa explained that Mr. Davies was not directly in tre employ of the Council, but that he was engaged by the college, to whom the Council paid a E, certain sum, tho Council passed a resolution to the tffect that they would take no exception to Mr. Davies occupying a seat on the School Board, so long as this office did not interfere with his duties as mining lecturer. Menevius writes:-—" Amongst the many recent elections which have been held, I think that the above election is a very important one, and one which calls forth our immediate attention, inasmuch as the vital interest of our offspring is at stake. I find that dif- ferent committees have been held for the selection of candidates. I find that the different committees have been very discreet and wise in their selection. I shall not dwell on the merits and demerits of all the candi- dates. I shall leave that to the electors themselves but if you will permit. I "hall crave a small space to refer to the solootion the Baptists have made by selecting the Rev. James Williams, Dowlais, Joseph Owen, Taff Vale House, and Mr. Rees Williams, insurance agent. The two former come out in virtue of their past service they are two well-tried and experienced men. I think that they have fulfilled their duty manfully, and we can without hesitation place renewed confidence in them. In Mr. Rees Williams we have new blood of sterling quality, one who possesses profound knowledge, and rare ability as a speaker. He i3 one in his official capacity who has an advantage second to none to know the wants, the needs, and the necessities of our working class rising generation. I beg most respectfully to urge my fellow comrades not to despise him at the poll. 1 have not the slightest doubt that if elected, by engag- ing his noble efforts, the electors will never have a cause to regret in returning him, and that at the head of the poll. Now, Dowlais especially, I call upon you not to flag in supporting him. He is in his prime of life, full of vigour and ability, out-spoken, full of energy, and a most conscientious administrator. Let In give him a chance, and ever will thereby infuse new blood into the School Board, and advance the cause of the mental development of our rising generation." DOWLAIS. A meeting was held on Monday evening last at Moriah Schoolroom, Dowlais, in support of the Rev. James Williams' candidature, when the chair was occupied by the Rev. B. Davies, pastor. The can- didate addressed the meeting in a forcible speech, which served to show his thorough grasp of the work of the School Board, and the active interest taken by him in the discharge of hi.s duties. He was heartily cheered upon his declaration that upon no considera- tion would he ever pin himself to the sleeve of any individual, and that he would accept no guide but his conscience oven if, as in the past, it led him to run counter at times to personal interest and in opposi- tion to personal friends. Speeches wera delivered bv Messrs. E. Jones, T. Davies, Berry-square, J. Francis, W. Rees, and others, and a vote of confi- dence pledging all present to do all in their power to help forward the candidature of Mr. Williams was pro[*>sed in flattering terms by Mr. T. Davies (Ceiriosydd), seconded by Mr. David Kedart, and en- thusiastically supported by Mr. Jno. Jenkins, Russell-street, and unanimously agreed to. The appearance of two new candidates on the scene in the persons of the Rector of Dowlnis and Mr. Isaac Lewis, tho Labour candidate, has complicated matters very much in Dowlais. It is absolutely im- possible to gauge the chances of the various candi- dates. It i? generally agreed that the official Noncon- formist candidates will be elected, although the can- didature of Mr. Isaac Lewis, who is a Baptist, is regarded in some quarters as a menaco to the Rev. James Williams. The Methodist1? are working bard in the interest of Mr. Rees Price. The Independents have at a meeting of the Rev. R. S. Williams' sup- porters unanimously agreed to go solidly for that gentleman, and for him alone. The sensation of the week has undoubtedly been the openly declared in- tention of Mr. Evan Lewis to supjwrt thecandidature of the Rector of Dowlais. TREHARRIS. On Thursday se'nnight a. meeting of the supporters of Mr. Henry Davies was held at the Public Hall, Mr. Thomas Davies presiding;. There was good attendance. The following gentlemen addressed the meeting: Councillor Prosser, Mr. Joseph Thorna- and Mr. J. Gaines. DATE OF ELECTION. The date of the School Board election is laid don-o for Thursday, March 7th, and the nominations close to-day (Thursday). It is impossible, of course, to give a full list of the candidates before they axe nominated, but from enquiries made the following gentlemen will probably stand tDavid Davies, Glebeland (Baptist) Rees Williams (Baptist) tRev. James Williams, Dowlais (Baptist). tJoaephOwen(Bapti"t). Rev. R. S. Williams, Dowlais (Cong.) ■ Rev. John Thomas, Merthyr (Cong.) W. L. Daniel (Congregational) Henry Davies (Congregational) Arthur Daniel, Troedvrhiw (Cong-) tRev. D. C. Edwards fC.M.) +Rets Price (C.M.) W. M. Evans. Treharris (Labour) Isaac Owen, Dowlais (Labour). ITsaac Edwards (Labour) W. Roberts (Labour) 10. H. James (Independent) Dan Thomas (Independent) fT. Jenkins (Independent) Rev. LI. M. Williams, Dowh1^ (Church) Rev. Daniel Lewis, Merthyr (Church) +11. E. Gray (Church) Rev. Canon Wade (R.C.) I Rev. Father Pinpctt (R.O.) fV. A. Wills (R.C) Those marked t are old

GELLIGAER SCHOOL BOARD. Tho votes recorded on Monday in the election of eleven mem!>ers to serve for tho next triennial term on the Gelligaer School Board were counted on Tuesday in the Boardr"?"! of the Merthyr L'rron Workhouse. Tho officer, Mr. Frank T. James, declared the restlIt a", follows — ^LECTKI). Thomas Jesso Jones, rector of Gelligaer 1,949 R. O. Jones, Congregational minister, Bed!inog 1,741 Aaron Davies, C.M. iiiinister, iVutlottyn L564 It. P. D. Phillips, (ielligaer 1,501 John Morgan. Deri 1,421 Thomas Rees, The "V 'Carage, Pontlottyn 1,267 W. A. Morgau, innkfleper, Pontlottyn 1,320 W. A. Morgau, innkfleper, Pontlottyn 1,320 ¡ J, P. Williams, Baptist minister, Pontlottyn 1,241 Daniel Davies, grocer and butcher, Bedlinog 1,079 W. C. Beddoe, Cefn Llwyna Hall 1,070 Evan Thomas, miner's agent, Pontlottyn 1,041 NON-ELECTKD. Henry Evans, foreman erector, Vochriw 1,023 William Williams, grocer, Pontlottyn 1,018 Daniel Williams, farmer, Cefn Hengoed 906 Edward Lcjwie, grocer, Bargoed 875 Thomas .Tone3' farmer, Greenhill, Gelligaer 760 I Robert S\vidf.nliank, gentleman, Pontlottyn 193 Thomas I)iivid Jones, ale and porter merchant, Tirphil 185

THE COUNTY COUNCIL ELECTION. MEHTHVR. The fi^.t is waxing hot in the Cyfarthfa Ward, aud both candidates, Councillor Thomas Thomas and Mr. Watkin Moss, are busily engaged in covering the ward meetings that are held each evening, but the partisalls of neither one nor the other seem to he con- fident of success. Whoever succeeds here will leave but a very small majority. The genuine Labour party. hc'Wf^er, in rallying round Mr. Thomas, and it is confidently expected that he will give his opponent a sound thrashing. MR. LABOUCIIERE AND TORY TEICKS. Writing to Mr. Alfred Edmonds, the Liberal can- didate for the Town Ward, Mr. Labouchere says I trust that yon will be successful in your election to your County Council. The trick of the Tories is to afsscrt that politics have nothing to do with these elec- tior)°» but to oppose any man who 18 not a Tory aud a frjettd of their ally Bung. A Radical stinks in their i^ptrils. But County Council never will what they ought to be, so long as they are able to keepme-n I like you off them." Liberal" writes lu the I own Ward the only ¡ two candidates before the public as yet are Mr. Alfred Edmonds and Mr. John W. Lewis. The first named calls himself a Liberal, whilst his opponent goes on the Independent tack. There is not the shadow of a doubt as to the relative popularity of the two rivals, and the only hope, which, by tho way, is Eretty freely expressed, of gaining the seat for the iberals, lies in the retirement of Mr. Edmonds in favour of a more consistent and popular advocate of Radical and Temperance views. Two members are being brought prominently before the public, and those are Mr. David Davies, Glebeland, and Mr. Charles Henry James, J.P., but neither gentleman has given any encouragement to the rumours. Should they be asked to stand, however, there is reason to believe that one at least will consent. And when that comes about Mr. Alfred Ednioudt may retire with good grace, MR. D. A. THOMAS. M.P., AND THE TITHES QUESTION. Writing to Mr. Alfred Edmonds, the Town Ward candidate, Mr. D. A. Thomas, M.P., after wishing Mr. Edmonds eneeess, says "I hope you will make the a-llooation of the tithes a test question in all the wards in the Merthyr Borough. The question ought to he raised at the first meeting of the new County Council, and before the Disestablishment Bill get,; into committee." ,THE IRISHMEN AND MR. A. EDMONDS. At a meeting of the W. E. Gladstone Branch of the Irish National League, held on Sunday, the following resolution was unanimously passed That we call upon the Irish electors in the Town Ward to support the Home Rule candidate, Mr. Alfred Edmonds, at the forthcoming County Council Election and we trust that no Irish elector will be so unpatriotic M to vote for Mr. J. W. Lewis, the Tory candidate, after the outspoken declaration by Mr. Balfour last week, in the Houso of Commons, that should the Tories be returned to power at the next election, their only policy for Ireland was coercion. MR. A. EDMONDS AND TIIE LIBERALS. Aristides writes As a well-known Liberal, and I may say holding very pronounced ideas, I was much amused by reading a paragraph that appeared in the South IVales I)o i,!i News on Monday the 13th to the effect that the Liberal (?) candidate for the Town Ward in the coming County Council Election, Mr. A. Edmonds to wit, had done a very hold and daring- deed, in facing an audience composed for the greater part of harmless, inoffensive, tired colliers, one old lady, and at the most three licensed victuallers with a sprinkling of small boys. So far from there being any daring or boldness required to address such a meeting, why, the proverbial "Mousey" could have stalked through the ioom in solitary grandeur for all tho danger that would have attended its doing so. Mr. Edmonds tries to qualify the statement as to how "daring" he had been, by saying thatit was thenative district of his opponent, the Conservative candi- date, Mr. J. W. Lewis. But he somehow seemed to forget that in his address to these same turbulent spirits, he boasted that it was also his (the so-caJlwl Liberal candidate) native district, he having been born within a very short distance of the room wherein the meeting was then being held. Whero he can get the overwhelming majority from is to me a mystery, seeing that according to his own counting (and giving him "the benefit of doubling a few) thero were only 57 in the room. I fancy that this leaves the strong body of colliers who came in and gave him such a spirit of darint", rather a small one. Another amusing statement, is the one in which it is said that the candidate made mince-'Deat of the proposal to compensate publicans for being deprived of their licences. He certainly asked the audience to follow him in an illustration which he attempted to draw (save the mark) for it was a most shady and indistinct drawing, and I failed and still fail to see where the connection of the two cases began. Ho said here we have a colliery proprietor who is told by hie manager that his colliery is Unsafe to work he consequently has to close it, and the poor collier is of course out of employment, and all the compensation that he can get is to be told to take his pick and shovel on his shoulder and go seek work elsewhere. What lie, Mr. Edmonds, would dearly like to tell the publicans, would be this, to take up their picks and shovels and go and seek work elsewhere." Will you, Mr. Editor, kindly inform mo iu which way such an illustration could touch the compensation clause in tho abolition of licencM ? Any impartial mind would at once see why he attempted such an illustration. The poor hard- working collier," yes, that is all very well I suppose he thought that that cry wouij fetch their votes, but there was not much honfHty;:j such an illustration. I think that a simple illustration of this kind would be nearer the point, and I 1/ave no doubt but that that same overwhelming majority who marched in in such a solid manner wouW be better able to under- stand it. We will still sjppose the colliery owner to be present, and also the Colliers in their stalls and we will suppose that onsman has not worked accord- ing to the views of a ceifain number of the other men, although he is as good j collier as any of them, and knows that what he las done is quite right; yet, because they think he/ias not worked in the proper manner, according totheir views, he must take uphis pick and shovel nnd^o seek pastures new, and on no account must he isk for compensation for being deprived of the mejns of livelihood. I think that an illu-tration of that-kind would meet the two cases, better than the onsdrawn by this bold and daring" orator. I Mr. Alfred Edmonds is hardly the person one would have expected to hear running amuck against the publicans, as hejssofond when at temperance meet- ings of calling tfiom. It is well known that hut a few short weeks ago ha sought an interview with the President of the Licensed Victuallers Association, begging him for his support, and also that he would use his influence with the other members of the trade on his behalf in the coming election. But when he finds that tiay consistent in their principles and will have nope of him, he (A. E.) is suddenly fired with a feeling of wonderful virtuous indignation and attempts, for it is nothing more, to justify such unjuct and iniquitous treatment of a respectable body of tradespeople, when he advocates the abolition of licences without compensation. But this all happens when hs.^eks to pander to the working men of the ward, hoping thereby to catch their votes but un- forluiip.sely for him, although fortunately for the town, be has again miscalculated, for the working men have in the weighing of him found that his pro- fessions of loyalty to thern are not even skin deep. Why does hy not give air to the.se some views of his on tbe compensation clauses at some of the bars that hsis so fond of frequenting? Hie ilhistrationsand his utterances generally against the Liberal Unionists and tho Conservatives are nothing more than a case I of sour grapes. Had he been able to get their sup- I port all would have been well. Is this the Fort of man one expects to see posing as a Liberal"' He talks j of honour why th'rf is very little political honour shown here. His chairman at this wonderful meeting spoke of the wolves decked in another animal's clothing. Was that a little gratuitous sarcasm? for as I have shown you, it would suit this valiant candi- date down to the ground. His opponent was quite right when he dubbed him a political will 'o the wisp," but I think a political chameleon would have suited Ijetter. In conclusion, I would give him a word of advice let him devote the whole of his time for the next three years to learning the principles of consistency and, well, political honour," and he then perhaps may be able to wriggle successfully to a place on the Coun- cil. He ought to know that "honesty is the best policy." Radical writes :—" Having watched the career, journalistic and otherwise, of Mr. Alfred Edmonds for the last few years I am bound to come to the con- clusion that ho is not the man to command the united support of the Liberal Party in the present election. I don't want to say anything unkind of him, and I hope the present experience he is going through will be a stern lesron for him as regards the future. If he wants to get on as a Liberal ho most stick to his party more consistently than he has done in the past, He has been a Shoni-bob-ochor," and now he has to pay the penalty. But to come to the point. It is as clear as noonday that Mr. J. W. Lewis is going to win the- seat unless he is opposed by a stronger candi- date than Mr. Edmonds. I understand that Mr. C. II. James. J.P., is pressed to come out, and I hope that he will consent, or that some other strong party man will take up the flag' Now Mr. Edmonds retire- ment would do a great dealt to pave the way, and I respectfully ask him to consider the question. He will best serve his party by withdrawing in favour of a stronger man. If he insists on going to the poll, and thereby hand over the seat to the Tories, his action will provoke against him theindignationof the party generally." L.T." writes I am sorry to sec so much apathy in the Liberal ranks with regard to the election in the Town Ward. Of course, I admit that Mr. Edmonds is not by any means a strong candidate. He has hobnobbed too much with the other side, especially the publicans, to be a strong candidate. But a weak Liberal is better than a strong Tory. Mr. Edmonds is pretty sure to vote straight in the Council if be gets there, and by his eloquence to support the right side. His opponent, though a most estimable man, is a Tory, and will vote with tho Tories. Ha.d we not better close up our ranks, forget tho past, and give Mr. Edmonds a chance": If he betrays his party we can turn him out at the next election. A- a Liberal I shall consider myself bound to vote for the Liberal candidate, though I do wish I bad a better candidate to vote for. But Mr. Edmonds is only young yet, and after sowing his political wild oats (which he has been doing broad- cast) he may turn out a very useful man. At any rate he is better than a Tory." A public meeting of the supporters of Mr. -1. W. Lewis was held at the Zion Vestry on Wednesday evening. There was a good attendance and the chair was occupied by Mr. T. I'. Williams.— Mr. J. W. Lewis, in tho course of his speech apologised to Mr. Edmonds for having stated that he had supported Mr. Frank James against, Mr. Joseph Williams at the last County Council Election. The speaker had made this statement whilst labouring under a mistaken idea, and ho hoped Mr. Edmonds would accept the explanation in the liberal spirit it was offered (hear, hear). The candidate then dwelt upon the past extravagance of the council and advocated the handing over the control of the police to the Joint Standing Police Committee, which should be much more democratic than it is (applause). It bad been circulated through the press, and used by his opponent, that he was the representative of a particular political party, but ho would assure them he was the nominee of no one and stood upon his own merits as a person who possessed some little interest in the ward (hear. hear). His opponent also stated that he was being subsidised by that class. There was not a word of truth in this statement, and if any offer was made it would lie refused not only with some warmth, but with considerable indignation (applause).—Messrs. W. Rees and Dau Thomas hav- ing spoken, a vote of confidence was unanimously passed in the candidate on the motion of Mr. W. Rees, seconded by Mr. COll. Manning. DOWLAJS. A large deputation consisiing of tradesmen, working men, and mechanics waited iqion Mr. E. P- Martin, the manager of the Dowlais Work?, on Monday 'a evening, and asked him to again contsst the seat for tho County Council. Ho has cousented to do so, and up to the present no one has come forward to oppose him. Mr. Thomas Jenkins will probably be returned un- opposed for the Dowlais Town Ward. The seat at Gellifaclog appears to be in some danger. Mr. Evan Lewis has definitely made up his mind to contest it against all comers, and seems to be under the impression that he will be unopposed but it is feared he has reckoned without his nost. Mr. Gwilyra C. James, to whom really the seat belongs, is being pressed on all sides to become a candidate, but up to the present he has not made up his mind. It should be mentioned that almost without exception throughout the county, where a seat is held by an alderman, that gentleman has nrst chance of refusal. Mr. James has not yet refused to stand, but sirould he como out it is almost certain that Mr. Evan Lewif; will oppose him, Mr. Jauiw had the largest majority in the county when he was elected six yeari ago, and Mr. Evan Lewis is undoubtedly very popular. Consequently should a contest take niafa it will be a case of Greek meets Greek," and will hi watched with probably more interest than any other. Even the Tenydarren seat is going to be assailed. Alderman Thomao Williams has proved himself too great an advocate of teetotalism to please the liquor party, with the result that the latter have made up their mind, although they feel certain that they will suffer a terrible thrashing, to force a fight. Their champion will be Mr. T. E. Morgan, tho rejected member of the District Council and tho Guardians, and his chances are put down as nil. The County Council elections in Dowlais are likely to pass off without incident. Mr. Thomas Jenkins will not be opposed, nor will Mr. Edward Martin in Caeharris. On Monday evening a very large and thoroughly representative deputation of tradesmen and working men residing in the last-named division, waited upon Mr. Martin with a view of in- ducing him to r-tandat the next election. Mr. Martin, in reply, said he was willing to etand again, and he was unanimously adopted as candidate for Caeharris. It 1." practically certain that no opposition will Iw offered to any of the three councillors who are seeking re-election. Late on Wednesday evening it was announced that Mr. T. E. Morgan, who had proposed to content th« seat at Penydarren against Mr. Thomas William", had retired in favour of Mr. Dan Thomas, who has definitely decided to stand. VAYNOR. It appears that Mr. Herbert Kirkhouse, civil engineer, of Tyiorstovrn, who has a residence in Vaynor, intends to offer himself as a candidate fo" election upon the Breccnshire Council, in succession to the late Mr. Thomas Jones, J. P. CEFN. It is rumoured that Mr. Herbert Kirkhouse, of Brynbeaw, Tyiorstown, Pontypridd, will contest the electoral division of Vaynor of the Breconshire County Council in the Conservative interest. ABERDARE. At Ebetiezer Hall, Trecynon, on Friday, a meeting was held to nominate candidates for that portion of the ward, in opposition to Mr. R. H. Rhys, J.P. h wf.9 ultimately decided to ask the Rev. Richard Morgan to come out. On Monday evening a meeting was held of the electors of the Gadlys Ward, at the Temperance flaB, in support of Air. D. Morgan's candidature. Councillors Evan Lewis, of Dowlais, David Proseer, of Trchariis, an 1 T. Daronwy Isaac, and others spoke.—The Ht. B. Evans has declined to the deputation who asked him to stand.—In tho Town Ward, Mr. J. W. Evaus is busy canvassing. Mr. J. Howell is coming out for the inaengwawr Ward. For the Aberaman Ward, tho candidates aro Messrs. T. Rees and T. Thomas.—At Llwydcoed, Mr. R. H. Rhys will be opposed by the Rev. R, Morgan. PENRHlWCEIBER. At a largely attended meeting of the votem of this ward, held on Wednesday, a vote of confidence in th° present member, Dr. R. W. Jone?, J.P., was passed unanimously, and promising to secure the genial doctor a seat upon tne next Council. ABERCANAID. Things are assuming a practical shape here now, and both candidates are doing all they can to indue tho elector* to vote for them. Mr. A. Daniel held a meeting last week at tho Abercanaid Board Schools, which was very well attended. A very good feeling prevailed, although the prominent men of both parties were piespnt. ?»Ir. Daniel had an unanimous vote accorded him as a School Board candidate, but when the time came to accord confidence as a County Coun- cil candidate matters jussumed a different aspect. Th" vote in thi; ease was very well balanced, a!x)ut He same number voting lor each candidate. TREHARRIS. Last Friday evening, at Bethania Calvinistic- Methodist Chapel, a public meeting was held in support ot the candidature of Councillor Prosser, There was a fair attendance. Mr. Lewis Morris WH." voted to the chair, and after a few introductory remarks, called upon the candidate to address thf meeting. Mr. Prosser then gave an account of his stewardship, and was followed by Councillor Evan Lewis, Dowlais, who, in a lengthy address, said that Mr. Prosser had made an excellent member of ths County Council, and advised the (-lectors to again place him at the top of the poll. After a few remarks from Mr. W. A. Thomas, Bristol House, Mr. D. Davies proposed, and Mr. W. Richards seconded, a vote of confidence in Mr. Prosser, which was unani- mously carried. A public meeting was held at the Public Hal! on Saturday evening last with the object of selecting i4, I' candidate for the County Council. Mr. F. Target was voted to the chub". Thero were about sixty I persons present, and it soon became apparent that the meeting was very much divided. Several gentle- men addressed the meeting, which at times was quite lively, and ultimately it broke up without any- thing being done. Councillor Prosser has refused to retire, and it is now stated that Mr. William Jenkins, of the Ocean Coal Company, will not enter the field. Major Bell's supporters are actively working on his behalf at Treharris. Another correspondent says: Mr. Prosser's pros- pects are improving. The Liberals aro rallying round him, and though he is not as strong a candi- date as might be detired, he is strong enough to beat Major Bell once more. Mr. Jenkins' little fiasco is apparently at an end. A public meeting was held at the Public Hall on Wednesday se'nnight with a view of inducing Mr. W. Jenkins, the manager of the Ocean Coal Com- pany, to become a candidate for the forthcoming election. Mr. J. Lewis James was voted to the chair. The following gentlemen addressed the meeting Mr. Ray (agent), Mr. Giblion (manager), Mr. T. Rees, and Mr. Bundy. It was decided to ask Mr. Jenkins to bo a candidate. It is said Mr. Jenkins has declined to become a candidate. TREDEGAR. A meeting of tho Liberal Association for the Georgetown Ward was held last week at the Primi- tive fMethodist Chapel, when Mr. D. Davies was elected chairman of the association, and Mr. Hopkins secretary, for the coming year. The meet- ing unanimously adopted the present representative, Mr. Bowen, as Liberal candidate for the ward at the forthcoming County Council election. A meeting of the Liberal Association couue-eted with the West Ward was also h'1d last week, when officers were elected for the coming year, and Mr. Aggex was again selected an Liberal candidate for the forthcoming election. Electoral matters are very tame so far, and though we are on the eve of the election the battle cry has not yet been heaixh The present councillors are Mr. H. Bowen, for the Georgetown Ward Mr. Stephens, for the Sirhovvy Ward Mr. W. Dav ies, for the Town Ward and Mr. Aggex, for the We.sf. Ward. Mr. Stephens will not seek re-election, but the other councillors are likely to stand again. Mr. 8. Thomas will probably stand as an indepen- dent candidate for the Georgetown Ward in opposi- tion to Mr Bowen, the Liberal nominee. EBBW VALE. Ho far very little interest has been manifested in the forthcoming County Council election. Mr. Richards, miners' agent, Mr. Phillips, J.P., and Mr. I). Hughes will seek re-election, but Mr. Harrison has retired and Mr. David Jones, Libanus-road, has been "electPfl as Liberal candidate in his place. Tt is not likely that there will be any opposition. BRYNMAWR. The forthcoming election is creating much interest at Brynmawr. The town is divided into four wards., and each ward has the right to elect one representa tive. Tho electors of the East Ward met last week, and unanimously adopted Mr. John Thomas, th<* present County Councillor, as the LiVral candidate- for that ward. The proposer of Mr. Thomas was the- Hcy. Mr. Edwards, Congregational minister, and tb«.<- seconder Rev. Mr. Evans, Baptist minister. It ib not likely that Mr. Thomas will be opposed. If any body did have the bravado to do so he would find! himself badly beaten, for Mr. Thomas is very- popular. The electors of the West Ward also met together to select a candidate. Tho name of Mr. John J. Lyddon, the present County Councillor, was sub mitted. but the majority of those present, wished to run Mr. Llewellyn Thomas, schoolmaster, who was accordingly adopted Liberal candidate. A meeting of the electors of the Central Ward was held on Thursday night for the purpose of selecting a Liberal candidate for the ward. Mr. John Rogers, a member of tl»> Board of Guardians, presided. A letter was read from Major Powell, the present coun- cillor for the ward, expressing his determination not'. to stand for re-election. Mr. James Bloor was adopted Liberal candidate for the ward, on the pro- position of > Mr. D. Morgan. Mr. Bloor is very popular in the town and will make a good councillor. On Friday night a meeting of the electors of tlu- South Ward was held to select a Liberal candidate Mr. A. Evans, chairman of the Liberal Hundred, presided. Mr. John Watkins, the present repre- sentative, was adopted on the proposition of Mr. Markall, seconded by the Rev. J. Williams. A vote of thanks was accorded Mr. Watkins for his past sen icc" on the Council. Some feeling has been introduced into the West Ward (writes a correspondent) over the selection of candidate for the County Council election. Som« people think that Mr. Lyddon, the present repre- • sentative, was slighted in not being selected to run agaiu. Of course the people have a light to select whoever they choose, ir<tiJl there should bo a little more consideration shown for Mr. Lyddon, who has done good service on the County Council. For instance, it was he who brought forward the question of an additional constable for Brvnmawr. i Mr. Llewellyn Thomas,- the adopted Liberal candi date for the We*t Ward, having decided not to stand, another meeting was held on Saturday at Calvary Chapel Vestry-room, when Mr. James Morgan, licos manufacturer, was adopted as Liberal candidate.

flirt thinUs itscif the most abused V. hen MATCHLESS Cl.KANSKK SUAI' is used.

Errs's COCOA. GR ATS.FCI, AXDCOOTORTISS.—" By a thoroc-W knowledge of the natural laws which :0' f) n the operations of digestion and nutrition, and by a careful application of tlu» fine properties of well-selected COCOA, Mr. Epps has provided for our breakfast and suppe a delicately flavoured which ma" save us many heavy rlocton;1 bill?. It is by th!' judicious use flf such articles of diet that a constitution m&y be gradually built up until strong enough to resist every tendency to disease. We may escape many a fatal shaft by keeping ourselves well fortified with pure blood and a properly nourished fral11e.('n'!{ Serriee Gazette.—Made simply with boi1iuj water or milk, Sold only In packets, by Grocers, labelled—"JAMF.S Errs & Co., Ltd., Homoeopathic Chemists, London." Also makers of Eppa's Coceaine 01" Cocos-Xib Extract A thin bevernge of full flavour, nsw with many beneficially taking the place of tea. Its active principle beins a gentle nerve Ffimulant. supplies the needed energf without unduly exciting the system.