Merthyr Times and Dowlais Times and Aberdare Echo

DOWLAIS. VICTORIA. THEATRE, MARKET SQUARE, DOWLAIS. PROPRIETRESS MRS. SINCLAIR. OPEN NIGHTLY. Monday, March 11th, a. sensational drama, founded 'upon the Indian Mutiny, entitled "Jessie Brown, or the Relief of Lucknow." Tuesday, March 12th, Faith, Hope, and Charity, or Widows and Orphans." Wednesday. March 13th, Robert Emmett, the Irish Patriot." Thursday, March 14th, The Maid of Cefn Ydfa." Friday, March 15th, "My Sweetheart." Saturday, March 16th, "Llewellyn, the last of the Welsh Princes," to be followed by Singing, and con- cluding with" Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet-street." HOUSE DECORATING.—Our readers should note that Mr. R. H. Luscombe, house decorator, of Victoria- stieet, Dowlais, has just received a new stock of paper hangings for the season. [2963 UNDERTAKING and all kinds of Carpentering and Joinery Work done. Hearse and Mourning Coaches to order. GEO. J. O'Neill, Frederick's Court, North Street, and Pond Street. Dowlais. J. T. DOCTON, SANITARY ENGINEER, Plumber, Hot Water Fitter, Gas Fitter, Electrio Bell Fitter, and General House Decorator, etc., 138, High-street, Merthyr. All orders will receive prompt attention. Distance 110 object. A staff of experienced workmen regularly employed. J.T.D. may be consulted on Sanitary matters, embracing drainage, ventilation, etc. f281 THIS EVENING AT EIGHT.—Voters and non-voters please remember that the Temperance Choir Concert is to take place at the Hall this evening at eight, and, barring accidents, &c., the programme is sure to please you. Don't fail to attend. Bring all your friends along. Popular prices. [2934. RICHARDS PENYWERN."—A movement is on foot to present the Rev. W. J. Richards with a testi- monial. MR. EVAN REEs EVANS.—On the 4th of April the Excelsior Minstrels will give an entertainment for the benefit of Mr. E. R. Evans, the popular tenor. TEMPERANCE.—On Tuesday an open lodge of the I.O.G.T. was held, when a miscellaneous programme was gone through. THE "VtC."—On Monday night the company pro- duced the Welsh play, entitled "The lily of Pont- sarn," Mrs. Sinclair being the only person who has the legal right to perform the piece. The excellent local scenery, painted by Mr. Harry Sinclair, was loudly applauded, whilst Miss Alice Sinclair was warmly encored for her rendering, in Welsh, of "Adieu to Cambria." BEULAH, ENGLISH BAPTIST CHAPEL, DOWLAIS.— The Anniversary Services of the above chapel will be held on Sunday and Monday, March 17th and 18th, 1895, when the Rev. Cornelius Griffiths, of Bristol, will preach on Sunday morning at 11; afternoon at 2.30; evening at 6. On Monday, the Rev. C. Griffiths, and the Rev. Gomer Thomas, Morlais Chapel, Merthyr, will preach in English service to commence at 7.30 p.m. Collections after each ser- vice in aid of Beulah Chapel Building Funds.

TROEDYRHIW. PERSONAL.—Mr. Arthur Daniel, Troedyrhiw, has been appointed treasurer of the English Congrega- tional Union of Glamorganshire Rnd Carmarthen- shire. OBITUARY.—We regret to announce the death of Mrs. Charles Price, wife of Mr. Price, grocer, who passed away peacefully on Monday evening at 11 o'clock. Deceased had been ailing for about eight or nine months prior to her death. Much sympathy is I felt for the bereaved family. CHAPEL DRBTS.-At the quarterly meeting of the English Congregational Union of Glamorganshire and Carmarthenshire held last week, Mr. Arthur Daniel, Trocdyrhiw, read an interesting paper on "Our chapel debts and how best to liquidate them," and as a result of the discussion which followed, it was decided to appoint a committee of four to take up the matter and mature a scheme by the next meeting. ABERVAN. SUCCESS.—We have to compliment our friend Miss M. Llewelyn upon her success at Troedyrhiw, on Monday last, when she secured the prize for the soprano solo. There were several competitors, and three selected for appeerance on the stage, and after a keen competition on "The Children's Home," our vocalist proved the victor. TREHARRIS. -The elections will be followed by proaioiions. That's the rumour. —The public opine that W.R." ought to sit on a more influential board. —A dance takes place every Wednesday evening at the Coffee Tavern. -The feeling is very much against the proposed increase of the water charges proposed by the Merthyr Water Bill. Councillor W. Lewis' action is commended by all. -The Royal Welsh Ladies' Choir will pay us another visit on the 23rd instant. -There have been no complaints lately as to gas. The supply is abundant. We mean election gas. -Yet another election When will they cease ? This time it is the Burial Board," and will be held at Merthyr on Monday next, the form of voting being bv show of hands. Mr. W. R. Thomas, Bristol House, will be our candidate, and the 4.30 p.m. up Taff on that date will be heavily laden with his aup- porters. An extra engine will be put on. COOKERY CLASS.—The above class commenced a fresh term on Friday evening last, and was well attended. It is hoped the ladies will avail themselves of this class, as Miss Griffiths is an efficient instructress. LAWN TENNIS CLUB.—A well-attended meeting of MOL the above was held at the Royal Hotel on Monday, Dr. Finlayson presiding. The committee were repre- sented by Mr. R. Edwards, hon. sec., Mr. W. C. Thomas, treasurer, Dr. Law, and Mr. E. H. Thomas. -The Hon. Sec. announced that Dr. Leigh had for- warded a cheque, and that the subscriptions received now amounted to JB20. NELSON. LECTURE.—On Friday evening last, at the National Schools, the Rev. A. T. Fryer, of Caniiitf, gave a very interesting lecture on home mission work, illustrated with limelight views. The views were chiefly of Car- diff, and showed the rapid growth of the town and the great necessity for the work of the mission. The rev. gentleman also spoke strongly against tho evils <,f shebeens and clubs. ABBBDARE JUNCTION. Tuii ELECTIONS.—On XU^,V week a meeting was held m support of the candidatUn. -\jr Thomas Morris, Thorn Hotel. for the County Couii.-i Tllc Chairman, Mr. R. Powell, alluded to the grai.a. victory they had won at the School Board election the previous day in the return of their local candidate, Dr. A. J. Griffith, third on tthe list of the successful candidates. Dr. Griffith, in a terse speech, thanked the electors for the honour done him. The local candidate and ex-member of tho County Council, Mr. Morris, next addressed the meeting in a lengthy speech. Much dissatisfaction was expressed at the way in which candidates had been nominated at this place in the past by simply getting persons to sign their nomination papers and talcing no other means to verify their attitude. Eventually the following resolution was carried unanimously That six representative electors be appointed from this meet- ing who, by virtue of their ejection, shall be fully empowered to call public meetings for the purpose of selecting a candidate for any of the local boards whenever the necessity may arise." It was pointed out that this course would put the candidate in the position of having clearly the ckoice of the people and the electors. On Thursday lant a meeting was held in the Board School in support of the Ynysybwl candidate, Mr. Sam Evans, Robert Lowe Hotel. The meeting was fairly well attended, but no resolu- tions were submitted.

SHOCKING FALALITY NEAR DOWLAIS. A lamentable accident occurred at the Xo. 1 Pit at Vochriw, the property of the Dowlais Iron Company on Tuesday. Among thowe in the pit was Leonard Chivers, a collier, residing in Walter-street, and his "helper," a. boy named Griffith Hughes, residing in Gwernllwyn Fach. While engaged in filling a box of coal, the boy was struck on the head by a piece of stone, some pounds in weight, which had fallen from the top. When he wa? raised it was found that he had received a terrible blow on the back of the head and neck, and although he was not killed outright he expired in a few minuses afterwards. The boy, who was between twelve and thirteen years of age, was the son of a hitcher named John Hughes, and it is a melancholy incident in the family history that the father had only recently recommenced work after an enforced idleness of about a year's duration caused by an aocident to the arm received in the pit.

EXTRAORDINARY CURE AT DOWLAIS. Nothing succeeds like success. For a long time past David James Simnons, living at 42, Wind-street, Dowlais, has been a great sufferer from indigestion and nervous debility. and for 10w years has taken all sorts of medicines, but without getting any relief. He eventually heard of Professor Kelly, of Aberdare, who has an office in Dowlais, and went to him. After taking medicine of the value of 4s. 6d. Simmons has become quite well and strong again, and is able to follow his employment. He has sent Professor Kelly a testimonial, of which the foregoing statement is the substance. [2942

Country Gentlemen should not fail to obtain a. copy of the "COUNTRY GENTLEMEN'S CATALOGUE." It is the handiest and most useful book published. Everything you want is there. CIfth. 3*. 6d. Paper boards, 29. 6d. post free. — EDElIf FianM & Co., 6, 7, and 8, Clement's Jjaue, E.G., apd all bookselleur. and bookstalls.. [2933

PRESENTATION TO MR. WILLIAM MORGAN, J.P. Dowlais Honours One of Her Most Noted Citizens. The movement set on foot last summer with the object of presenting a public testimonial to Mr. William Morgan, J.P., Pant, culminated on Thurs- day evening in a great gathering of that gentleman's friends and admirers in the Oddfellows' Hall, when the presentation was duly made. Remembering how fashionable the giving of testimonials has become with all classes of the community, and how frequently handsome presentations have been made to people who have left Dowlais after only a few years' stay, it is a matter of surprise that until last summer nobody seems to have thought of inaugurating a testimonial to Mr. Morgan, a gentleman whose life is bound up with almost every big movement known to have had its inception in the town for the last forty years. It is diffioult, if not impossible to recall any movement, having for its object advancement of social life in Dowlais, in which Mr. Morgan has not taken a leading part, and his influence has ever been exerted in the right direction. Mr. Morgan, it is true, has taken a leading part in political matters, but he h is been scrupulously fair to his opponents, and even in the days when it was all but impossible for an anti- Liberal to be beard, the little man from the Pant" several times appealed to those of his own way of thinking to give the other side a fair hearing. The result of all this was that all people of all creeds and shades of political opinion had a good word to say for Mr. Morgan, as might have been gleaned from a perusal of the testimonial list published in these columns a few weeks ago, some of t'ie handsomest subscriptions in the total being received from Con- servatives and Unionists. As we have said, nobody seems to have dreamed of working up a testimonial for Mr. Morgan until last summer, when, with the late Councillor Thomas Jones, he was raised to the bench. Then a meeting, convened by Mr. Howell Howells, Balaclava-road, was held, and the testi- monial committee was at once formed. Colonel D. Rees Lewis, Merthyr, who was then about to vacate the office of High Csnstable, was appointed chairman, and Mr. Howells himself was elected secretary, the duties of treasurer devolving upon Mr. Rees Price, Morlais-street. With men of this stamp in the leading positions it is not to be wondered at that the efforts of the committee were attended with phe- nomenal success. But very properly they allowed the movement to lie in abeyance until the various presentations to the Hon. Ivor Churchill Guest had been got out of the way. But this delay WM followed by another, and one over wi-ich nobody could have control, namely, the delay caused by the work of charity that was so unani- mously called forth by the terrible holocaust at Cilfynydd. This work, too, was completed in time, and then Mr. Morgan's testimonial committee set to work with a will, and they collected more than £100, although they made no frantic appeal for subscrip- tions nor canvassed the town in a systematic manner. This fact is perhaps the most significant tribute that could be paid to the sterling worth of Mr. Morgan as a Dowlais citizen. For the event of Thursday last the Oddfellows' Hall was decorated in a. most effective manner, although it was but fitting in this respect that there should be no exaggerated display, since Mr. Morgan's life has been one of honest, solid work, rather than of gaudy shtnv. The gallery sides were hidden beneath a veil of art muslin, and from one side to the other there were suspended several strings of varie- gated Japanese lanterns. Similar decorations which one associates with the name of China were con- spicuous by their non-appearance, probably on account of the sorry figure which the Celestials are cutting in the present war. As a matter of course the Union Jack and other typical British flags were prominently displayed, as were also those of the United States, since it was known that the Hon. Anthony Howells, the South Wales official representative of the great I Republic, would be present to say a word in favour of Mr. Morgan, one of his oldest and trustiest friends. Bannerettes of various designs were also hung out I from different parts of the gallery. The platform lost its wonted unattractive appearance by reason of the presence of a number of giant palms and evergreens, kindly lent for the occasion by Mr. Edward P. Martin, the bead manager.of the Dowlais Works. These plants lent quite a luxuriant appearance to the place, and this was rather enhanced than detracted from by four easels, on each of which was displayed one of the articles forming the testimonial. The said articles comprised a life-like portrait of Mr. Morgan, in oils, a similar picture of Mrs. Morgan, a third por- trait representing Mr. Morgan and his good lady, and, lastly, the presentation address. The three pictures were the work of a London painter, while the addre-s was executed by the now tamous Dowlais illuminator and designer, Mr. John Jones, Horse-street. The address was printed in Mr. Jones' most elaborate style, ornamental words and coloured capitals being many in number. The border was floral, and at intervals in its rich colouring were allegorical figures representing literature, music, temperance, justice, religion, &c., with all of which Mr- Morgan has been prominently identified. It should be stated that two subscription lists had been opened, one by the people of the town, and the other by Mr. Morgan's fellow-worshippers at Libanus Chapel. It was the money, or at least a portion of it, of the latter body that purchased the portrait of Mr. and Mrs. Morgan, while the two other pictures and the address were the gift of the townspeople. The presentation meeting was preceded by a social soiree, at which an exceedingly varied selection of good things were placed before the friends by the caterer, Mr. D. C. Evans, of the Central Supply. That gentleman seemed to have excelled himself in the matter of the quality of the provisions. The tables were placed all round the hall in the space beneath the gallery, and were in charge of the follow- ing ladies :—Mrs. Henry Jones and the Misses Price, Libanus House; Mrs. W. M. Davies, High-street; Mrs. J. T. Davies, Market-street; Mrs. Daniel, White- street Mrs. T. Jones, Mary-street; Mrs. 1). C. Evam, Bryntirion-street; Miss Dunford, Castle- street Miss Jenkins, Overton-street; Mrs. D. W. Jones and Miss Maggie Williams, High-street: Mrs. Morgan Evans and Mrs. Rees, High-street; Mrs. S. Makin and Mrs. Sweet, Union-street; Mrs. Thomas Thomas, Caeharris; Miss L. A. John, Gwernllwyn Uchaf and Mrs. Thomas. Valuable MIl. WILLIAM MORGAN, J.P., PANT. assistance was also rendered by Mrs. Daniel, Spring- street; Mrs. Isaac Davies, Frances-street; Mrs. Jones, Coffee Tavern; Mr. J. T. Davies, Armoury Stores Mr. D. C. Evans, Central Supply Mr. D. S. Powell, Union-street; and Mr. Morgan Evans, High- street. The number of invited guests was very large, and if there was a fault at all it was that the tables were too much crowded. Mr. Morgan entered the hall when the festivities were at their height, and be was received with great applause. The inner man having been duly honoured, Mr. Harry Evans, A.R.C.O.. conductor of the Dowlais Philharmonic Society, commenced the subsequent proceedings by playing Mendelssohn's Andante and Kondo in E" in his usual excellent style. Mr. Dasid Thoruas sang Rossini's Pro peccatis," a solo which seems to have been specially written for him, and Mr. Evan Rees Evans followed with U na byddai'n haf o hyd." Miss H. M. George caine next with "I know that my Redeemer liveth," and the musical contributions were closed by Miss Marie Davies (sister of Miss Magg-ic Davies) singing Bugeilio'r gwenith gwyn." It is needless to say that all these items were admirably rendered and much appre- ciated. Colonel Lewis, on taking the chair, was received with great enthusiasm. lie expressed the pleasure it gave him to be there that night, and to see so many good people assembled to do honour to Mr. Morgan. That meeting reminded him of one of the last acts that he had performed during his occupation of the post of High Constable. It had been his pleasant duty as High Constable to be chairman of the pre- sentation fund, and he could assure them that the duty had been a pleasure indeed (applause), because it enabled him to repay in some slight manner an act of kindness which Mr. Morgan had intended con- ferring upon him. Mr. Morgan, he had learned, was very anxious that ho (the speaker) should succeed him as High Constable, while he was equally anxious that Mr. Morgan should find some other successor (laughter). On many occasions he had an oppor- tunity of judging Mr. Morgan's excellent qualities, and he was very triad indeed to be cne of those who j were assembled there that evening to do him honour (hear, hear). It was only right that honour should be given where honour was due. and he was one of those who rejoiced at Mr. Morgan's elevation to that magisterial bench to which be had proved him- self an ornament (hear, hear). Alluding to his position in the magisterial court, the speaker said it was it bit uofortunate that he was that night to sit upon Mr. Morgan for when Mr. Morgan came to Merthyr be bat on him (laughter). He regretted that Mr. Morgan did not come oftener to Merthyr but when he did come he always did his duty, and in that respect lie differed from some people who accepted the honour without a thought of discharging duties appertaining to the office. They might ta.ee it u:,n as one learned in such ma ters, if he might bo a loweu o pXpre5Sj0n, that Mr. Morgan had done Ins duty as a the pp,aco (h|ar hear). It was no empty honour u. *»AwIais as a whole that one of her most worthy sons be singled out for such an honour, and he (the speaker; I! was proud to thiuk that he could call Mr. Morgan by the name of friend, and he trusted that their friendship would continue for all time (applause). Mr. Howell Howells, the secretary of the testi- monial fund, said he was glad to note that the move- ment had been so completely successful. The total amount of money received from all sources was JB111 163. (hear, hear). The matter had not been I pushed in any way, but sums had been cheerfully sub- scribed by all classes of the people. 1 It should be stated that in the sum he had mentioned was included £ 21 17s. which had been collected by the friends at Libanus Chapel (bear, hear). They devired their subscription to be separate- ly kept, although for the purpose of the testimonial all money had been put together. The speaker concluded by reading the address, which was as follows :— AS ADDKEM PRKSENTKD TO WILLIAM MORGAN, ESQ., J.P., PANT. DEAR SIR,During the whole of your life you have been indentified with every movement promoted for the moral and social welfare of the community, and your career has been such, that your name has been a household word here, and honoured throughout the Principality. Y:>ur energies and abilities have at all limes been devoted to literature, music;, temperance, and education, and we desire to make special reference to the leading part taken by yourself in the adoption locally of "The Welsh Intermediate Act, 1889" during the period of two years which you filled the office of high constable for the division of Caerphilly Higher. The able and energetic manner in which you then discharged your duties won for you the admiration of all classes, and, confident that you will sustain the duty of your magisterial office, we tender our congratulations upon your well- deserved elevation to the commission of the peace for the county of Glamorgan. In recognition of your unselfish devotion to public matters, your honesty of purpose and un- bending integrity, we beg your acceptance of the accompany- ing purse of gold. We trust you will take it as a proof of our regard, and our prayer is that your life of use- fulness will he prolonged, and be crowned with the choicest blessings, and, as you descend the valley of life, that there will be light at eventide. We are. dear sir, on behalf of the subscribers, D. REEF) LEWIS, president JOIIS EVANS, J. K. PRICE, D. JosES, D. DAVIES, vice-presidents; REES PI: ICr., treasurer and li. IIOWEMJS, hon. sec. There is another paragraph relating to the pesenta- tion from Libanus Chapel, and it is as follows The Church worshipping at Libanus Calvinistic Methodist Chapel, Dowlais, desiio to join in honouring their esteemed brother, Mr. Morgan, who, for move than 50 .years has faithfully filled the office of deacon there and they wish to testify that during that period he has rendered eminent service to the connexion itself and Libanus Church in particular, and has always borne an examplary Christian character. They, therefore, beg his acceptance of the autotype portraits of Mrs. Morgan and himtelf in token of their Christian fellowship and love, and they pray that both he and hisfamilv may be filled with all the fulness of God.- Signed on behalf of the Church, W. EICIIARDS, H. JONES, r). JONES, C. FEN WICK (deacons) D C. EVANS (member). The Honourable Anthony Howells, United States Consul at Cardiff, received an ovation on rising to make the presentation. He said there was an old adage to the effect that two men would meet before two mountains, and never was it truer than in .the cise of Wilham Morgan and himself, for that night, after the lapse of fifty years, they were meeting again _) on terms that were very pleasant to him (Mr. Howells), and that were no doubt highly gratifying to his old friend (hear, hear). Since they had drifted apart—he and Mr. Morgan-the latter's friends ha.d watched his (the speaker's) progress through life with interest, and had requested him to come there that evening, and to present that beautiful address, which they had just heard read, to his old friend. He did so with the sincerest pYasure (hear hear). He did not know what more could be suid than was said certainly nothing that ho could say could im- prove the beautiful language of the address, which he would take that opportunity of saying was as much a credit to him who had composed it as to him who hnd designed and illuminated it. The address said that Mr. Morgan had been identified with every movement for the moral and social welfare of the people. In doing that work he had honoured himself as much as those people who had been benefited by his work Oiear, hear), and the consequence was that his friends who knew the value of such work had seized that opportunity of honouring him. In honouring himself Mr. Morgan had but done his duty, for it was a man's first duty to honour himself, and this he could always do if he did the work by which his fellow men could be honoured. And if he did that it would surely fol- low that the people would appreciate and honour him (hear, hear). The address went on to refer in a special manner to Mr. Morgan's work in the cause of education. In his (the speaker's) opinion, if he had done nothing whatever other than seek to spread edu- cation, that alone would make him worthy of that great and representative gathering, as well as of the handsome testimonial they were about to give him (luar, hear). A day or two ago he had read with great sorrow that Wales had lost one of her greatest educational champions by the lamented death of Lord Aberdare. He could not help thinking of that when he heard mention made in the address of Mr. Morgan's work in the cause of education. All men must sincerely wish that the mantle of Lord Aberdare would fall upon some worthy successor. Boys—ah, what strange feelings and memories that word awoke —in the days of Mr. Morgan and himself had not the same educational facilities as were being extended at the present day, and any man who laboured for the advancement of education deserved well of his fellow men. For that reason lie maintained that Mr. Morgan had deserved all the honour that the people of his native town had paid him (hear, hear). It was said that a prophet was without honour in his own country, and that if a man wanted the appreciation of others he must join the great majority beyond the grave. Well, lie was glad to see that in the case of Mr. Morgan there was an exception to the general rule (hear, hear). The people had recognised his good qualities before Death had claimed him for his own. Seeing his old friend after the lapse of so many years, he could not help thinking that Time had dealt kindly with him, for though it had given him a bald head, yet his son's head was more bald than the father's was (loud laughter). Recalling the days of their youth in the Dowlais Schools, he believed that in most things lie eqnalled his old friend, but unfortu- nately the big schoolgirls thought more of him (Mr. I °^V"A ♦b in ot the speaker, and he did not wonder tha^ that geiit- had chosen so excellent a partner for life (cheers), lo i. jr,Hueil0e no doubt owed much of the success which fwiu lit*, journey through life. Undoubtedly, woman exvi, ;«orl a great influence over man, and that influence was OiL, Q permanent one. History recorded the names of many great men, and he himself knew some who owed their downfall to the influence of women. But there were many other cases where the influence of women had been exercised for good. From that they might learn that tho influence of woman was somewhat mixed upon man at one time she brought sin into the world, and at another she gave birth to a, Saviour. But without a doubt the women who influenced a man for good far outnumbered those who brought about his ruin, and he thought they would all agree with him that Mr. Morgan had found one of the very- best of women (hear, hear). The address said that the way in which Mr. Morgan had discharged his duties while he occupied the position of High Constable had won him the admiration of all. What a noble tribute to his worth did those words convey A kingdom devoid of friendship was as nothing to the words of that testimonial (hear, hear). Mr. Morgan was human like the rest of them, and he could not view that gathering without pride. Seeing so many old and trusted friends around he (the speaker) thought he was but uttering the feelings of Mr. Morgan's heart in saying that that was the proude-ft moment of his life. True friendship was the wine of life—the longer it lasted the better was its le quality (hear, hear). Then the testimonial went on to speak of Mr. Msrgan's unselfish devotion to public duties. That being so, no man had a better right to the good feelings of his friends than he (hear, hear). Mr. Morgan bad not,JMicawber-like,waited for some- thing to turn up, but' he had been persevering and methodical in all he had done, and instead of being the creature of circumstances he had taken a firm grip of circumstances and made them his creatures. He believed that such a noble character would teach a lesson, not to those who had witnessed the storms of 60 years, but to the young men and boys who were present that night. Mr. Morgan's life was an example to them, and a, proof of the truth of the old saying that where there was a will there was a way. He, like most of them, had not been born with a silver spoon in his mouth. But by honesty and a stem obedience to duty ho had lived to see that night when all were vieing to do him honour (applause). Let the young men who were present follow in his footsteps then would they themselves be better, aud tho-e who came in contact with them would be better too. If they had the will that will would prompt them to tind out the way, and they might be sure that an appreciative body of their fellow men would not forget tham. Mr. Howells proceeded at some length to exemplify the moral of Mr. Morgan's life to the young people present, and resumed his seat amid great cheers. The Chairman having paid a tribute of deserved praise to Mr. Howells for his eloquent address, Mrs. David Jones, Mary Aune-street, handed Mr. Morgan the purse of gold which accompanied the address I amid a renewal of applause. Messrs. William Richards and David Jones, rep;esenting the church at Libanus, next addressed the meeting, both dwell- ing upon the great services which Mr. Morgan had rendered to the church, and upon the good feeling which was entertained towards him by all classes of the worshippers. They concluded by formally giving Mr. Morgan possession of the large portrait of him- self and Mrs. Morgan. Mr. Jones concluded his remarks by reciting a number of verses suitable for Elli the occasion, and eonijxwed by himself. The Chair- man said that not much had been said there regarding Mr". Morgan, but he thought it was only fair to say that at lea-t three-fourths of the credit of Mr. Morgan's success was due to that lady. Mr. William Morgan, on rising to respond, was received with loud and prolonged applause. He said Mr. Chairman, Hon. Anthony llowells, ladies and gentlemen.—You will readily see that I am placed this evening in a position that is quite new to me, one of an agreeable and pleasant nature, but still not altogether free from difficulty. I am expected to reply to the very complimentary terms of the beauti- ful address you have just presented to me, and also to the kind remarks that have fallen from the various speakers, but I hardly know what to say. However, it is quite obvious that my first and foremost duty is to thank very sincerely all my kind friends who have honoured me with their presence this evening, as well as thole who are unavoidably absent (hear, hear). Your presence in such numbers on this occasion is very gratifying to me. I have also to thank,in a very special manner, the friends who took tho initiatory steps in this movement, formed themselves into com- mittees and exerted themselves to attain their object. There were two committees, one in the town and the other in the church of which I am a member. Both have worked with a will, and they have provided me with a very handsome and substantial lecognition of my humble services. I owe the committees and their officers a great debt of honour. Reference has been made in the address to my recent appointment to the magistracy (applause), but as yet I nave not done very .uucti service in that capacity, and as the dignity was conferred upon me so late in life, it is possible, and perhaps probable, that I shall not fill the position for long. My excellent friend, Mr. Jones, of the Hafod, who was raised to the bench at the same time as myself, has already gone, and my illness of the last few days has vividly reminded me that my days may be also drawing to a close. (The speaker uttered these words while labour- ing under great emotion, and it was feared that he would break down altogether. After a brief pause, however, he proceeded). I take it that you are not here this evening to celebrate any honour I ha\e received, but rather to recognise some public service that I have done. Well, I cannot disguise from myself the fact that I have been for many years some kind of a public servant in Dowlais (hear, hear). It is quite possible to exaggerate the value of those services, and over-rate their importance, but I cannot myself deny their existence, such as they were. There has been hardly any public movement in Dowlais for the last forty-five years which I have not aided to some extent (applause). This is a long period, but the value of public services cannot be deteri-ined by their length alone. One man may throw as much energy and activity into ten years of public life as will outweigh in value the services of another man extending over forty years. I cannot recall to my mind any person of such extraordinary brilliancy who has lived for a time in Dowlais during my life-period, but my memory on this point may he defective. It is quite natural that the event of this evening should recall to my mind the past history of Dowlais, and my connection with the place. And it may be that some of you expect me to relate to you a few inci- dents of my early life, and explain how it came about that I should take a special interest in public affairs. Well, I think my life can he very well understood by the history and character of my parents and their surroundings. It is quite true that my parents were but common peoplein theestimation of the world, but they were a truly pious and Cod-serving people (hear, hear), and self-sacrificing workers in the Church of Christ. In a religious and moral sense I had an excellent start in life, and I can claim little more now than that I have kept my beginning (hear, hear). The 1 charge brought in the Scriptures against the fallen angels is that they did not keep their begin- ing." Well, I hope that I ha\ e in the main trodden in the footsteps of my fathers, and have not dis- graced their memories. My parents guided me through the perils of youth with loving care, and they encouraged me to engage in all kinds of Christian work (bear, hear). In the year 1837, when I w;i: seven years of age, my respected father joined the Temper- ance Society, the first that was every formed in Dowlais. He, along with his friends, became very enthusiastic abstainers, and very often advocated tem- perance princ plea at public gatherings. I hecame an abstainer at the same time (hear, hear), and before I was fifteen years of age I had delivered scores of temperanee addresses in the chapels, and on the street corners of Dowlais. At first my father and his friends composed the addresses for me. but ere long I could compose my own. I have no doubt that this early training fostered in me a love of temperance work, and by it 1 acquired a liking for public speak- ing. Temperance was my first theme, but in the course of time I spoke in public on many other ques- tions, social and otherwise. I received the whole of my education at the Dowlais Schools (hear, hear). I was kept there for a longer period than is usual even I now with the children of working people. I was a fair scholar, quick at most subjects, but never strong at figures (laughter). Perhaps I did not acquire learning as fast as some of my mates did while at school, and it may be that I did not forget it so soon after leaving (laughter and cheers). My love for reading was intense, and I spent all my money in book". After leaving school, my evenings for many years wore mostly spent at the religious services at Hernion Chapel, at the Dowlais Library, and at the meeting of the Dowlais Mutual Improvement Society, an institution that was founded by the late Lady Charlotte Guest (applause), and which flourished for eight or ten years. Many of the Dow- lais men who have since risen to eminence were mem- bers of that useful society. I did a fair share of the work of the society, and the training I received there helped considerably to mould my after life. I began writing for the press when about 23 years of age, and I soon became a correspondent for a Li vcrpool news- paper edited by the late well-known Ieuan Gwyllt. I Rent a weekly contribution to that paper for eight or ten years, and I think that I was the first news- paper correspondent that was ever appointed in Dowlais (hear, hear). In mv 29th year I married. All my immediate friends who intended taking the matrimonial step had taken it long before I did. They had secured the first choice of the young ladies of my acquaintance (laughter), and many of them I know made excellent selections. I made mine, and every one who has any knowledge of my private life will say with me, "What a happy choice I made" (hear, hear). She has all the essentials of a loving wife and tender mother. I feel intensely my indebtedness to Divine Providence in giving me a life companion so well suited to participate in my joys and to share in my sorrows. We have travelled together the pathway of life for 35 years, and have seen, during that long period, many losing couples severed by the rude hand of Death. Our time will come like theirs, but I hope it may still be distant. The real battle of life usually commences when a man takes to himself a wife and brings up a family. It was so in my case. When I review some of the incidents in that battle I feel that some stages of it might have been fought better. Some of my friends have been much more successful in their life-battle than I have been, but on the other hand, many of them have unfortunately fared much worse than 1. I have been enabled to bring up my children respec- tably, and have given them a fair start in life. On the whole T think I have much reason to feel content and to be thankful to the great Ruler of my destiny (cheers). The speaker ha', ing repeated his thanks to all the friends addressed some further remarks in the vernacular, in the course of which he referred to the good feeling that had always existed between himself and the friends at Libanus Chapel, Mr. Morgan resumed his seat amid loud and general cheering. Mr. W. L. Daniel, official receiver, said that within his memory he did not remember such a meeting in Dowlais as the one of that night for the last 33 years. And as he watched the proceedings he felt bound to confess that he was strongly tempted to say a word or two to swell the chorus of praise of his old friend (hear, hear). Thetimewasdrawinglate,andhef"lt he ought to compress what he had to say into one minute, but "0 much could be said about Mr. Morgan that he could not possibly say what lie wished to say in that time (laughter). But if they would be patient —(cries of Go on ")--he would promise not to keep them longer than two minutes. In the first place Mr. Morgan was a man. Well, thf.v micrht i"ly, Anybody knows that," but he used the word in its highest and broadest sense, the sense which con" own action.16 ilieV^Ir. "Morgan was a lovable man he was a pure man, he was an active man, and all those qualities combined to make him a useful man (hear, hear). Again, Mr. Morgan was and ever had been a man with a backbone. They had many men in Merthyr, and some even in Dowlais, who had no backbone, but he was glad to say that Mr. Morgan was not one of them. Mr. Morgan had been active not only in Dowlais and Merthyr and the county, but throughout Wales; and as a result his name was known and respected and loved in every part of the Principality (hear, hear). They were there that night to publicly honour Mr. Morgan, and they should thank God for having spared him for so long. They were not willing to listen to the words of Mr. Morgan's reply wherein he spoke of his approaching end, because they felt that God had yet more work for him to do. The speaker having briefly alluded to Mr. Morgan's labours in the cause of education, said he felt it was good for them to be there that night, for in honouring Mr. Morgan they were also honouring themselves (applause). The Rev. W. J. Richards said he was ghd an opportunity had been afforded him of showing his respect for Mr. Morgan. They had stood on that platform side by side on many an occasion in the years that had gone, and it might be that that was the last time they would stand there. Yet he knew of no pleasanter manner of terminating his connec- tion with Dowlais than by standing side by side with one of her noblest citizens. Mr. Thomas Evans, having apologised for the absence of Councillor David Davies, went on to say that he was probably the oldest acquaintance of Mr. Morgan's in the hall that night. He had known him for some 45 years, and he could cordially endorse all that the previous speakers had said in praise of him. Mr. R. P. Rees said that lie had on very many occasions to fieek the assistance or co- operation of Mr. Morgan in some town's movement, and lie always found that gentleman not only willing, but anxious "to do what he could. It was in ,a measure due to the enthusiastic way in which Mr. Morgan had worked that so many movements inaugurated in the town had turned out successfully (hear, hear). He was glad to be there to pay his tn- bate to their veteran townsman. Rev. Thomas Morgan said that on the morrow all Wales would be celebrating the memory of St David, her patron saint, and he (thf1 speaker) could not help thinking that they in Dowlais had stolen a march upon the Welshmen in other parts of the world (laughtei-). They had that night assembled to do honour to Mr. William Morgan, whom he had always regarded as the Nonconformist saint of Dow- lais. Ho (the speaker) had been in Dowlais for seven- teen years, and like his friend Mr. Richards he might say that. he was glad an opportunity had been afforded him before hi* departure from the town of -< paying a tribute of affectionate regard to Mr. William Morgan, whom he regarde-ias one of the grindest men Dowlais had ever produced (applause). Mr. William Griffiths having spoken briefly to the sauie effect, Mr. William Morgan moved a vote of thanks to ail who had assisted at the tea tables to those who bad contributed songs and instrumental excerpts to the iriends who had spoken so kindly of him, and to the chairman. He was indebted in a special manner to Colonel Lewis for his kindness in coming there, ainca he (the colonel) was in no way indebted to him. The gallant colonel, however, was as they all knew, ready at all times to do a good service to his fellow men (hear, hear). He could not but feel the kindness shown to him when he looked round and saw such a great gathering of people that evening. But he might say without egotism that if there was one trait in his character in which he took pride, it was that which had enabled him to keep all the friends be had ever made (applause). He had ever made it a point not to say a harsh word when a kind one would do, and even when he had to differ with a man he tried not to wound his feelings. He trusted that the friendship which had existed between himself and Colonel Lewip would last until it should be sundered by death (hear, hear). Mr. Howell Howells formally seconded the vote, which was carried with much enthusiasm, and the gallant colonel having suitably responded, referring incidentally to the fact that Mr. Morgan had got up from a sick bed to attend the meeting, the proceed- ings concluded with the singing of "Hen Wlad fv Nhadau," Mr. Howell Howells taking the solo. It should be stated that all the accompaniments were played by Mr. Harry Evans, A.R.C.O., the con- ductor of the Dowlais Philharmonic Society.

THE MERTHYR COUNCIL AND 1 THEIR CLERK. 1 THE COST OF LITIGATION. 4| At the ordinary meeting of the Merthyr District Council, held on Wednesday, Mr. T. H. Bailey, J.P., presiding, the chairman, in accordance with a notice of motion, proposed that all resolutions relative to the bill of costs being taxed, be rescinded. Mr. Bailey said that his object was. to save the Council from having to pay JS250 to the taxing master in London for having the Bill taxed. They were all agreed that that was an exorbitant figure when they could get the Bill taxed by the Clerk of the Peace for £ 22 10s.— Mr. I). Davies seconded.—Mr. Dan Thomas said that lie agreed that the sum of £ 250 for taxing that Bill was exorbitant, but he considered the Bill to bo far mote exorbitant than that. He objected to its being taxed by anybody until it was taxed by the Council. That Bill had never been placed on the table until, at bis request, it was brought in about a fortnight ago. They would find that it contained most extraordinary charges, which Mr. David Davies would never pay if he had to pay it out of his own pocket. He had not looked at this Bill otherwise he would raise his hands in righteous indignation at the charges made. For instance, there was "calling a litigation committee," attending upon Mr. Harvey, 6s. 8d. writing to Mr. Rowland Harris to consult him." It was rather important that they should con- sider what the clerk's terms were when he was appointed that he should receive £ 300, and give his service as clerk and do the legal work." He objected to the bill being taxed either in London or in Cardiff until is had been thoroughly investigated by the Council. He had waded through 109 out of the 451 pages which it contained, and found in almost every page charges which he would object to pay. For instance, convening meetings," writing Mr. Bell, 3s. 3d," writing Mr. Plews, Is. Id," consulting Mr. Harvey," &c. Surely they did not want a taxing master to decide whether that was required r-r not. He believed it was monstrous to charge 3s. 7d. for writing to a fellow-official when he could very easily send messengers. He would, therefore, suggest that the matter be further suspended, and that some- body be engaged by the ratepayers to see on how many occasions they found such items as he had referred to. He would like to have the Bill analysed by some one in the town acquainted with charges of this description, in fact to do the duty they them- selves would do if this Bill was sent to them individually, and to see that the clerk kept to the terms of his agreement that his salary was to include the whole of his duties. He would very much have preferred if the clerk was present, but he (Air. Thomas) might anticipate that he would say they were the charges of Messrs. Gwilym and Charles James. They would, however, find that many of the items were purely clerk's duties, and on behalf of the n ward which he represented, ho protested in the most solemn manner against these charges. Heteared it was the clerk himself who had risen this bug bear of JB250. and would like to know if there was any proof that the cost of taxing in London would be £ 250.—The Chairman Yes, we have the letter from the London ag«nts.—Mr. Dan Thomas They also are interested parties. He was as anxious as anyone to economise, but he would rather for the sake of the ratepayers pay JE250 for having this Bill properly taxed, than save the money by sending it to others. He believed the taxing master in the court where the proceedings took place should tax the Bill, and he thought they would be well spending the money of the ratepayers if they engaged counsel to represent the ratepayers when the Bill was was being taxed. Surely such items as search- ing for papers, 10s. 6d. would open their eyes.— Mr. Y. A. Wills seconded, because he had always maintained that these charges were exorbitant. He saw in one instance a charge of 3s. 6d. for sending off a sixpenny telegram.—Mr. D. Davies (who by this time had examined the Bill) As your seconder, Mr. Chairman, you must please excuse me for withdraw- ing (hear, hear). I had never seen tli:! Bill until this moment, but I remember when I was a member of the Local Board we passed a resolution appointing Mr. James as solicitor.—The Chairman We are all aware that there was a special resolution passed appointing the clerk as solicitor, but I am not in a position to say whether the Board were justified in doing so. That is quite another matter.—Mr. E. p Lewis Go on, Mr. Davies.—Mr. 1). Davies I must say, Mr. Chairman. I do not agree with Mr. Dan Thomas on many occasions, but I must say that there are items in the Bill which I would never pay, and had I seen the Bill before I seconded you I would not have done so. I blame the Board for having passed the Bill.—Mr. D. Thomas With due deference, it never was passed.—The Chairman They passed a resolution to have it taxed.—Mr. Dan Thomas It was never before the Council until a fortnight ago. I am very pleased to have convinced Mr. Davies to follow me in this matter. You may appoint your clerk to be a solicitor, but that is no reason why he should make excessive charges, and I should very much like to know where his duties as clerk and his duties as solicitor commence.—Mr. Evan Lewis agreed with Air. Dan Thomas, but felt sorry the clerk was not present to defend himself.—Mr. W. Lewis and Mr. T. Thomas spoke in the same strain, as also did Mr. Harpur.—Air. J. Roberts moved that a committee of the whole Board be appointed to go through the Bill.—The Chairman questioned whether it was advisable to go into the matter until the clerk returned.—Mr. Dan Thomas said his time was as valuable as that of the clerk, and objected to the matter being deterred any further.—The Chairman here explained that they could not proceed further, as hi''resolution, being without a seconder, fell to the ground.—-Air. Wills then formally, and without pre- judice, seconded the chairman's motion.—Air. Dan Thomas moved, ,ax an amendment, that an experi- enced accountant be engaged at a salary not exceeding two guineas to analyse the clerk's accoui t of £ 6,074 17s. 6d., rc the jitigation of Crawshay Bros. t-. the Board, the accountant to report the number and amount of charges made (a) for convening meetings, and (b) for consulting officials of the Board also showing the amounts charged by our officials for visits to Loudon and elsewhere.—On the motion being put to the meeting, it was lost. The amendment was then put as the substantive motion, and carried, Mr. T. Howell being the accountant appointed.

MR. BEN DAVIES VISITS MERTHYR TO-NIGHT. The name of "Mr. Ben Davies" is a household word in Merthyr and district this week, for it is well known that he will appear at the Drill Hall to-night (Thursday), in company with other well-known and highly-gifted musicians. Mr. John Morgan, of Waterloo Chambers, is worthy of the unbouuded support of the community, for he has at great personal inconvenience been aide to secure thf- sftrvj'-e.s well k-n.,w—as Mr. Ben Davies after many weeks' letter writing. The other artistes who will take part in the programme are (soprano), Aliss -Julia Jones, of the principal London Concerts; (contralto), Aliss Alary Alorgan, of the Gloucester and Hereford Festivals, a pupil of Air. William Shakespeare (harpist), Aliss Edith Davies, an Erard Medallist; (bass), Mr. Sandford Jones. The accompanist is Air. Harry Evans, A.R.C.O., conductor ot the Dowlais Philharmonic Society. All other particulars will be found in our advertising columns.

MERTHYR COUNCIL AND A FAIR DAY'S WAGE. INTERVIEW WITH AIR. DAVID DAVIES. On Wednesday evening a Times man met Mr. David Davies, Glebcland, as he was returning from the meeting of the District Council. What about that resolution which the Council passed, Air. Davies, about paying a fair day's wage to all its employes?"' was the pressman's query. The worthy councillor fired away with his usual animation. I brought the matter before the Council just now," he said, "but Air. Wills was all there, and in his capacity of custodian of order tie got the chairman to rule me out of order." will yon give me the fact. Air. Davies With'pleasure. Atone of the first meetings of the Council there was a little desultory talk about paying union wages to all men who worked for the Council. Alessrs. Thomas Thomas, John Roberts, Evan Lewis, Dan Thomas, myself and one or two others spoke in support of that policy. No one said a word against it, and as far aH could be seen the Council was perfectly unanimous on the subject. But no resolution was passed." But the Operative Alasons' Society, through their secretary, Air. John Parry, sent a letter to Mr. Evan Lewis and Air. Dan Thomas to thank them for mo\ ing and seconding respectively a resolution to the effect stated." "I was simply astounded when 1 saw that letter in the Merthyr Tunes. 1 repeat that no resolution was proposed, seconded, or earned. Had a resolution been proposed and seconded, it would have been carried, as there was no opposition whatever to the policy lecommended by the speakers, For my own part, I am sorry a formal resolution was not passed and recorded on the minutes. But such was not thq case. I have fortified my memory by investigation of the Council's records." ,r "It is rather a peculiar kind of business, Mr. Dai I The councillor agreed, and there was some furtber talk about electioneering matters, and the prospects of the School Board contest.