Merthyr Times and Dowlais Times and Aberdare Echo

-P. G. M. Lewis John presided over the quarterly > meeting of the Aberdare Oddfellows on Monday, D.P.G.M. D. Davies (Dewi Iago) occupying the vice- chair. —Mrs. Thomas, Brynawel, presented certificates to the Church Lads' Brigade on Thursday evening. PICNIC.—On Thursday last the employees of Mrs. D. Climas Jones, 10, Canon-street, held their annual I picnic, and selected Ya trad fell te for the terminus of their day's outing. ANNIVERSARY.—The English Wesleyan Society held their annual meetings on Sunday last. Three ser- vices were conducted at 11 a.m., 2.30 and 6 p.m. by the Rev. T. Russell James. All the meetings were attended by crowded congregations. EMPIRE. THEATRE.—Upon the boards this week Gilbert Fysher's Company in "Sitan's Slave" '< appears. 1'here is a splendid serpentina dance. On I Thursday, Friday and Saturday in next week, Turner's renowned opera company is booked to aI>pear. GROCERS' ASSOCIATION. -At a meeting of the Aberdare Grocers' Association held at the Boot Hotel, on Tuesday evening, it was decided to close the shops on July 22nd. Nothing was done with regard to an outing. A vote of condolence with the relatives of the late Mr. D. Davids, Canton House, W.113 passed. FLOWER SHOW.—Things are looking decidedly t bright as regards the Flower Show, and Mr. Fred I levies, the secretary, with Mr. Tudor Williams and the committee, are to be complimentid upon the successful prospects. The Volunteer Band has heell engaged. A meeting of the committee has l>een called for Friday nest, at the Boot Hotel, 8 p.m. I)KATH OK MR. D. DAVIES.—We verv much regret ha ving to record the death of Mr D. Davies, Canton House, Cardiff-street, which took place at an early hour on Tuesday morning. The deceased gentleman Was well-known in the town and distriot. He had resided at Aberdare for about thirty years, he being a native of Carmarthen. For years he was a member of Aberdare Local Board and of the School Board »lso, but lost his seats at the last election. He was a Liberal, and the flag of the club is half-mast in com- memoration. Mr. Davies has suffered very acutely during the past few months from diabetes. CHURCH PARADF..—On Sunday last the 0 and P Companys of the 3rd Volunteer Battalion Welsh Regiment had their first church parade for this season. A very large number assembled at the *rrooury. Under the command of Colonel T. Phillips and Captain W. D. Phillips the company ^archedJtoSt. El van's Church, where the Rev. Gilbert Heaton, M.A., preached an impressive sermon. He Jfas not preaching to grown up persons alone this t'rrto, because accompaning the "V oltinteers was the Church Lads' Brigade. The youngsters wore their Pouches, belts, and caps provided for the purpose, ■kieuts. Chivers, Upton and Griffin looked after them. LAWN TENNIS. — Aberdare r. Caerphilly. — The above match was played at Aberdare on Saturday, aod after a very close fight resulted in a win for Caer- philly by—(C), 5 events to 4 (A), 12 sets to 11, 105 games to 106. Appended are the 6cores: -C. M. ^wis (A.^ lost to E. A. Sheen (CM, 3-6, 3-6: D. J. <*wyn (A.) beat W. H. Treatt (C.I. 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 E. A. Price Jones (A.) beat K. L. Mackenzie (C.), 3-6, ,rl> 8-6 Gilbert Heaton (A.) lost to H. D, Bleaslev )> 3-6, 2-6; M. Rowlands (A.) beat W. H. Beddoe £ >. 6-3, 6-2 II. M- Jacob (A.) losrt to H. S. Price C-), 2-6, 6-3, 4-6. Doubles Heaton and Lewis (A.) *°st to Sheen and Blessley (C), 5-7, 6-3, 2-6; Gwvn Had Price Jones (A.) beat Beddoe and Mackenzie (C), 7-5 Rowlands and Jacob (A) lost to Treatt and (C,) 6-3, 9-11, 2-6. »OG SHOW.—A meeting of the committee of this was held at the Boot Hotel on Friday evening ^der thc presidency of Mr. W. T. Davies. Amongst °'her items under discussion was the schedule, which ultimately concluded with the following :—Open passes, greyhound dogs, greyhound bitches, blood- hounds, St. David's or mastiffs, retrievers, pointers, ?ftters, English and any oiher variety spaniels, JMack field any other variety over 281b* also a«y variety except toys fox terriers, dog and bitch pso wire-haired, at the same class fox terrier (dog or not having won a prize in open class fox errier puppies, sporting puppies of any variety, r, ?x°ept fox terriers St. Bernard's, collies, collies (rough or smooth), not having won a prize in an open -•any j sheep dogs, Welsh terriers, aog and trtch *t"ish terriers, Yorkshire terriers, Scotch terriers, pdlington Skye, bulldogs, bull terriers, Manchester ,i, or pug or any other toy, non-sporting puppies filing classes, £ 10 selling class, £ 5; any other 13' and the best washed dog (prize given by Lever p°s., of Tort Sunlight). The local classes are grey- |'°und dogs and bitches, teirieis of any variety, spoit- ."yj^-log or bitch, non-sporting dog or bitch, the best °!Por bitch, the property of an underground work- best lurcher in the parish of Aberdare. Special A jx>rtrait, value two guineas, given by Mr. tn, hwnas, photographer, for best dog in the show v ',° guineas, by Mr. D. P. Richards, for test setter j aJue 303., by Mr. Tom Peek, for best greyhound /^al classes, silver medals of one guinea each, given y the society, for fox terriers, collies, greyhounds, Porting dogs, and Welsh terrier 10s. 6d., given by f: w. Oxenham, M.R.C.V.S., for the h«t bulldog leather bag by Mr. Pinnar. The judges will be HeFlivvell, sporting dogs Mr. Astle.y, all round J. H. Harris, Welsh teiriers. It was decided to the show on August 29th.

ABERDARE POLICE COURT. j-v^^day, before Mr. North, Mr. R. H. Rhys, Mr. j^'d Davies, Mr. G. George, Dr. Jones, and Dr. >a|ies.—The following were fined for drunkenness if Wilson, K. Manuel Hunt, J. Watkins, Abraham 'jf,0v-'ell, Thomas Davies, W. Haydn, and IBonar j^onias. William Pugli was lined 20s. for stealing ',r'c^s from old works-. Charles Palmer was » ed 20s. for stealing coke, the property of Mr. James f W Lewis Beynon was sentenced to seven days sleeping out on a hayrick, the property of the fo°rfaCoal Company. Daniel Jenkins was fined j r 'Uri°UH driving on the Hirwam-road. Charles Hies and Thomas Chandler were fined 10s. each for |v'pg along Cardiff-road without lights. —— An ^ipa order-was granted against David Evans, IlW-street.-—-The licence of the Whitcombe Inn Joh transferred to Albert E. Griffith. —■— Edwin, Tto an^ Thomas Moses, brothers, were ordered to „ y Is. a week each towards the maintenance of their ?ed mother. James Voyle was summoned for }J l6*-< arrears of an order to support his mother. 0 *j c'id not put in an appearance, and the Bench 'uertd his committal to prison for 28 days.

ABERAMAN. 'Christian" writes:—The diaeonate and clergy certain chapel have been coming down up"" h ef?'mau cyclists racing on Sunday in Pari-. >v hat 4.0 that or auy of the other chapels in the place done fl ^r°*note the recreation of the young people of their S?i^ Why do they not utilise the waste pieces of ta that they have, and provide suitable physical Creation ? davATAT' accident.—At the Plough Inn, on Satur- helH eve.n'ne> Mr. It. J. Rhys, the district coroner, ■\V;ivan inquiry touching the death of Thomas Howell 'iKiiijs, 128, Cardiff-road,—From the evidence it ti(v M t'iat the deceased was following his oceupa- 4,ad as collier at the Lletty Shenkin Colliery. He !»n tra„ large lump of coal, which he attempted to lift 1, a tram in doing so he injured himself, though ur.*as able to go home without assistance. On llving at the house the pain became so acute, that lie ,,1^ forced to lie down on the bed in his working l°tnes. He expired in that position before any 'edical assistance could be procured. -The jury *ll,.rned a verdict in accordance with the medical 'J"tifieate, Injury to the spiue.' tli ^RIMONIAr.—'L'hcre iy ft movomont in hand by Numerous friends and the brotherhood of Hen u,|f "u to present a portrait in oils Oi himself and «j.,e to Mr, Dan Hughes (Beyion), Station-street, to their appreciation of his sclf-sacriticing eitorts in a If. V'otinL' the said benefit society and other local \vi|H,1.ra- Mr. Hughes has l>een and is always ready and Utir'*1" tu 4° good or promote any local effort ot 'ty or necessity, and, assistefl by his natural Inli gifts and overflowing urbanity, has engrafted L in the hearts of all Aberaiuanites with whom come in contact. He is a >ard of no mean a cliwirmau in great demand, and an acqui- j,i °n to any meeting. The presentation will take at a future date of which notice will be given. ^•Hughes' bardic title is the name of a river (the ii'on) which runs near his birthplace, jjj Tklets.—The poultry show committee is working f,, t!lrnest. Schedules are ready, and may be got 'JAJ the secretary, 2-Ir. D. Davies, Gladstone-strcet. \l'e ^ate is fixed for Julv 25th and the site is 'arnan I'ark, which will act as centre for Mountain h Cwinaman, Capeoch, and Cwmlxich. May ^attend their efforts.—The Cymru Fydd (j Clety's Eisteddfod will clasli with one to be'held at anVCVc'1> l-»ufc they say nothing cnturenothing win V'ey 0,1 i» iiope.—A doctors'club for_ trades- ,Sll 1 "as been started at the Masons'Anna with fair 0r IMeinbersliip is invited,—The English Lodge. *e~*°°d Temj>lais is still adding to its numlj^r. They successful in securing the challenge shield of the ii, 11 Glamorgan District for making the largest fell C|ase members during the la-t cjuarter, and only I) (f-t or two in securing the prize offered by tho dint- ^ur the greatest increase during April. Hie thf>r'^ n,opting will be hckl in their lodge room on M ?rst Thursday in July. On the following iiiBi. a trip to Weston will be taken by the t i°r>^ iU,<^ their friends, who will start with the dett a"1 Cardiff, where tlic.v embark for the d rowel! Duftiyn Coal Company are ileAv'? do\vn a new road for p«>der.tnan traffic from the \V0( j.'u,ldi|1gs in Gladstone Field to come out by to f| Ulc'"teirace. This will lie an appreciable boon U5 w'orkuien, as it will be a short cut to itlUUlHlJ,

TREHARBIS. ? —W« are suffering severely at Treharris from the continued drought and vegetation is well-nigh at a standstill. If it continues much longer, things will be very serious indeed. On the other hand, Treharris Society, both high and low, continue to take advan- tage of the brilliant weather, and are all pleasure bent. One form of pleasuies is very prevalent just now, and that is to have a social cnp of tea out of I doors. There are also other pleasure, which we will not attempt to enumerate, some of which arc praise- worthy, others the reverse. —Speaking of social teas reminds in of a very amnsing incident that occurred at one of these gatherings a few days ago. The kettle was filled with water, placed upon the fire, and when boiling point was reached the usual formalities were gone through, before ladling out the coveted beverage to a number of anxious visitors. Later on operations commenced, when the flavour of a eettain vegetable was detected in the tea. An examination revealed that there were some onions inside the kettle, which had been boiled with the water and were quite soft. Fancy —Is it true that goats are allowed to wander in cer- tain parts of Treharris, much to the annoyance of many cottage gardeners ? —The Treharris Lawn Tennis Club will journey to Aberdare on Saturday next to try conclusions again with the Aberdare Town Club. —The contractor ha.s commenced operations with a view of building the new Welsh Wesleyan Chapel in John-street. —We are sorry to hear that a cottager had a lot of his roses stolen on Saturday morning last. The trees were much damaged. Complaints also reach us of another cottager losing some vegetables. —Application has been made to Mrs. Edwards, Pantanas, for a building site on the Pan tanas Estate. The application emanated from a building club. —Treharris co-operators have decided to have a social tea on the 18th proximo. Wo hope to partici- pate in this tea, as humble birth and advanced age is no disqualification. In the evening an entertainment will be held. Both eveuts will come off in the co- operative building. —Mr. and Mrs. Gibbon, Mr. and Mrs. Roberts, and Mrs. W. C. Thomas joined the Freemasons' special at Treharris on Thursday last, bound for Llan- wern. where a large gathering was entertained by Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Q hoinas, M.P. —On Sunday a very interesting ceremony was per- formed at Brynhyfryd Welsh Baptist Chapel. Mr. John Davies, the respected treasurer of this church, held bonds to the amount of £200 on this place of worship. Recently he decided to present the chapel with that amount, and on the above day the bonds were burnt in the presence of the congregation amidst great rejoicings. JCBILEE.—On Sunday, July 7, Bethel English Bap- tist Chapel will celebrate their jubilee, when the Rev. T. Towy Evans. Blaina Gwent, will ureach at 11, 2, and 6 o'clock. On the following Monday even- ing an English sermon will be preached by the Rev. Alfred Hall, Merthyr, and a Welsh sermon by the Rev. T. Towy Evans. FROM OUR NOTE-BOOK.—The before-breakfast ser- vices recently indulged in by some young ladies have ceased. --The painters ha ve a grie vance, as some bui Idings have been painted by unskilled labour.—Rude bathers in the River Taff, adjacent to the Lovers' Walk," are much complained of.—Rumour hath it that there is a probability of new pits being sunk just over the way. PUGILISTIC.—Down the valley, late on Saturday night last, a pugilistic encounter took place, in which some heavy blows were exchanged and strong adjec- tives used. Upon inquiry we found the dispute was one of exceptional interest. The combatants were both men of bone and sinew, and move in humble life. Unfortunately they had placed their affections on one woman, and this was the cause of the encounter, and the lady, in our opinion, ought to be congratulated in having more than one admirer. These pugilistic encounters have been very prevalent of late, but the one we are chronicling is certainly an innovation oompared with any previous encounter. We would suggest that the right person to settle the dispute would be the lady herself, and this no doubt she would be able to do without striking a blow. PRESENTATION AT THE SCHOOLS.—Mr. William Jenkins, J.P., principal agent of the Ocean Collieries, and Mrs. Jenkins visited the Board Schools on Mon- day, when the latter, in a charming manner, pre- sented the following children with medals for highest efficiency in the respective subjects :—In arithmetic, Rebecca Evans and Edith Ray writing, Mary Gwen Davies and Edith Kobins map drawing, Thomas Davies and Charles Page; general improvement, John R. Gibbon. Three hearty cheers were given Mrs. Jenkins by the assembled children, and Mr. Jenkins, replying to a warm vote of thanks, stated that Mrs. Jenkins intended subscribing £ 5 towards a gymnasium for the school. This evoked another hearty three times three," and we certainly hope with the teaching staff and children that this visit is only the first of very many more. SCHOLASTIC.—We are pleased to notice that Mr. Arthur Proseer, son of Mr. David Prosser, Pantanas Shop, was awarded on Wednesday last, at the prize day meeting of Lewis' Endowed Schools, Gelligaer, a certificate granted by the College of Preceptors Examiner:, in which examination he qualified in the first-class of the third division. He also captured the form prize of the IV. Form of the school. Such attainments by so young a lad certainly deserve public notice. Another of our boys, Master Idris Williams, Primrose Villa, Quakers' Yard Junction, was successful in gaining the IV. Form chemistry Srize at the same school. Mr. Tom Aurelus, son of Ir. Aurelus, Navigation Hotel, and Master E. Edwards, son of Mr. Thomas Edwards, Pentwyn, also gained certificates, the last named being for Latin, French, English, mathematics, &c. A.S.R.S.—On Sunday last, at the Co-operative Committee-room, a meeting of signalmen and other I grades under the auspices of the Quakers' Yard Branch of the A.S.R.S. took place, the business being the election of a delegate to attend the forth- coming National Conference of Signalmen at Bir- mingham. A large number of all grades attended. Representatives were present from Aberdare, Alier- dare Junction, Hirwain, Merthyr, Quakers' Yard, Mountain Ash, Rhymney, and Tredegar Junction. Mr. E. Charles, Llaneaiaeh, was chosen as chairman, and Mr. O. Jenkins, Quakers' Yard, as secretary.— The Chairman said that Quakers' Yard having been considered a central place, it had been decided by a mass meeting held nine months ago to call any future meeting in connection with the movement" at that place.—Some discussion took place as to the modifying of the programme, after wliicn Mr. I). Rees proposed and Mr. Cadle seconded, that "our delegate be instructed to adhere to the programme as formulated," which was carried.—The question of electing a signal- man as organising secretary to the movement was con- sidered.—The Chairman said the committee bungled from start to finish, and he considered a signalman ought to be appointed for that important post, and he moved That it be an instruction to the delegate to vote for the appointment of an ex-signnlman for that purpose."—Mr. Pocock seconded, and the motion was supported by Mr. Brooks, and carried.—Mr. J. Eurngton proposed That the time has arrived when railway men should have direct representation in the House of Commons."—Mr. Cadle seconded, and the motion was carried.—It was also decided to ask Mr. Harford to bring the question of the hours of signal- men before the Trades Congress.—Mr. J. Eurngton, Aberdare Junction, was then chosen as the delegate to the Birmingham conference, and after the considera- tion of other matters, a hearty vote of thanks to the chairman for presiding concluded a very enthusiastic meeting. DYFED'S LECTLRK.—On Monday evening last, at Bethania Chapel, Rev. E. Rees (Dyfed), Cardiff, the renowned Welsh bard, delivered a most interesting and instructive lecture in the vernacular, upon his recent visit to Egypt, to a large and appreciative audience. The chairman was Mr. Thomas Williams, J.P., Merthyr, who, together with Mr. J. Mills' (Tarianydd), Aberdare, accompanied the lecturer in his tour through Egypt. Previous to calling upon the lecturer to proceed, the Chairman and Mr. Mills gave a short account of their journey, and some very interesting reminiscences of their|travels. Mr. Wil- liarss seemed considerably altered in his facial appear- ance, and looked fully 10 years younger since his return. Dyfed, on rising, was enthusiastically received. He gave a most descriptive account of the towns vi-ited, and of the manners and customs of the inhabitants. The beggarly, slothful condition of the people id best described in the lecturer's own words Gwlad cardotta bena'n bod, Yn gelwydd hyd ei gwaelod. He dealt with the manner in which the Nile irrigated the soil, and pointed very clearly how the people were entirely dependent upon its wateis,for if the river failed to rise above the point of 16 kilometres no hopes were entertained for crops that year, the consequence being famine and distress. Under such circumstances the authorities were sufficiently charitable to exempt people from all taxes neither was there an >l half- crown rate" that year. The description of the Pyramids, those gigantic constructions erected by crown rate" that year. The description of the Pyramids, those gigantic constructions erected by forced labour, was listened to most attentively, and tho pithy remarks of the able lecturer were received with applause, lIe also gave an account of the dis- covery of the remains of the tyrant Pharaoh, Ramesses II, that wild beast in human shape," who had inflicted such misery on the children of Israel, and of whom a modern writer says There was not a stone in his monument which had not cost a human life." After the usual votes of thanks the meeting termi- nated, and the audience dispersed fully satisfied with the excellent lecture, and feeling sad at heart that the lecturer did not continue much longer. -??-

ABERDARE JUNCTION. —The members of the English Congregational Church are about to enlarge their place of worship, which is much needed. TORY MEETING.—On Friday evening an open-air Tory meeting was held behind the Co-operative Stores, Mr. Walter Morgan in the chair. Mr. James Jeffrey delivered an address, and the multitude then adjuurned to the club-room of the Junction Hotel, where a "smoker" was held, when songs, recitation-, and speeches were given. There was a good attend- auce, and all had a jolly good time of it.

,11'YKNILE PHOSECCTOHB AT MOUNTAIN ASH, At the Mountain Ash Police-court on Wednesday an extraordinary case of prosecution was heard. Alice Toby, a»ed 10. summoned Mary Ann Williams, aged 11, for assault.—The case of Toby was that on Sunday evening the little girls were coming from chapel, and defendant asked her to go for a walk; she refused Williams then bought some cigarettes, and because she declined to smoke one she was struck on the back.—For the defence it was argued by the children that complainant struck the defendant first. The cigarettes were subsequently smoked by some other girls.—TheiBench dismissed the case, and thought it was a shame that the parents of these children should allow them to appear in court. It was a pity they were not trained better at home. Summonses were asked for against Mary Toby by Mary Ann Williams, the motller" of these girls, for assault, but the Bench advised them to go home and not quarrel with each other.

VAYNOR AND PEN DEE YN DISTRICT COUNCIL On Thursday afternoon last the monthly meeting of the Vaynor and Penderyn Rural District Ccuneil was held at the workhouse, when there were present: Mr. J. W. Morgan (in the chair), Rev. J, E. Jenkins, Mr. T. Morris, and Mr. W. D. Powell, together with Mr. F. T. James (clerk), Dr. T. J. Dyke (medical officer), and Mr. James Jones (surveyor). CILSANWS.—The Clerk read a letter from the Vaynor Parish Council, asking who were-the rightful owners of Cilsanws and Pantywern Mountain, so that they might deal with the applications made for allotments.—The Clerk explained that it would be exceedingly difficult to find out who the owners were, and it was eventually agreed that the Clerk should write stating that he believed the owners to be the Lord of the Manor and the Commoners. SCARLET FEVER AT CEFN.—The Medical Officer reported that his attention had been called to the unhealthy condition of the Cefn Board Schools, more especially the class-rooms of the Infant Department. The sanitary defects included imperfect ventilation and a foul cesspit in which certain improvements were immediately required. From the 1st of January to the 9th of -tune. 37 cases of scaflet fever had occurred at Cefn, and 28 of these cases were of the infant school age; five were above seven years and four atiovc thirteen.—Mr. Morris asked if Dr. Dyke considered the ill-health of the children was caused by the condition of the schools.— Dr. Dyke replied in the affirmative.—Mr. J. W. Morgan said he felt surprised that Her Majesty's Inspector had not taken up the matter.—Mr. W. D. Powell thought that sucli an important matter as this should be attended to immediately.—Mr. Morris stated that the health of the children was a very important matter, and suggested that a copy of the medical officer's report be forwarded to the Vaynor School Board.—This was agreed to. THE SURVEYOR'S RETORT.—Mr. James Jones, sur- veyor, reported having received a tender for the repairs required for the Hirwain Bridge, which amounted to £ 12.—lie estimated that the cost of curbing and channelling Iligh-itreet, Cefn, wov.ld amount to about £443 5s.—The tender of Mr. Daniel Jones to cany out the repairs to Hirwain bridge for .£12 wa-> agreed to, and the work was ordered to be proceeded wifli without delay, but the question o' curbing and channelling High-street was adjourned HBtil the next meeting.

MERTHYR COUNCIL. Wednesday, Mr. T. H. Bailey, J.P., in the chair pre>«-ut:—D. W. Jones, vice-chairman, D- Davit?, Thomas Thomas, J. Evans, J. Robeits, W. Lewis, Evan Lawis, Y. A. Wills, Dan Thomas, Joseph Owen, with the Clerk (Alderman U. C. Jame"), Medical Officer (Dr. byke), and Surveyor (Mr. T. F. Hiy) FIRB APPLIANCES.—The Bridges' and Roads' Com- mittee presented a report re the question of providing efficient fire appliances throughout the Council's eiatrict, and the sub-committee presented a report on the same subject, dealing most minutely with the needs of the town and district, and making several recommendations in regard thereto, and it was agreed that at each station a book he kept having a list of appliances set down therein, a list and situation of hydrants, and to contain a complete record and date of each practise, which should embrace all the hyd- rants in turns, and practise should be done every week 10 the summer months, and Rs often as practical in the wiuter months. It was also agreed that the books shoold be sent from the various stations to the Council for inspection every three mouths, and also that ft report be furnishsed the Council by Supt. Thomey every month.- Mr. Harry Jones, the superintendent of the Town Fire Brigade, attended the meeting, and was interviewed with regard to hi; brigade. He said the police would not recognise them, though they were practial men. TIPPINU GBOCK PR.—The same committer considered the report lodged by the deputation representing the Clare Building Club as to the proposed tipping site near Caedraw Bridge, and the sub-eommittse were deputed to see Mr. Bailey, general manager of Hills' Plymouth Co., with a view of negotiating for tipping ground situated more to the south of the town than that near Caedraw Bridge. The result was that Mr. Bailey offered to give up the ground for £ 80 a year. —Mr. Dan Thomas thought the Council could with better advantage utilise the ground offered by the Cyfarthfa. Company, for in two or three years the ground could be divided into garden plots, which would benefit the working people (hear, hear). — A long discussion took place in legard to the obnoxious odour arising from tipping grounds when the refuse was deposited too near dwelling-houses, and it was eventually agreed, on the motion cf Mr. Wills, seconded by Mr. Dan Thomas, that the clerk write the Cyfarthfa Company asking them to return their draft agreement sent the Board some time ago. STEAM ROLI, £ R.—The* Bridges and Roads Com- mittee reported havinar discussed the question of pur- chasing a new steam roller, and considered the terms offered by Messrs. Aueling and Porter, Rochester, and were of opinion that the i-urn offered for the pre- sent roll was too smali, and directs! the clerk to write the firm saying that if they would allow £250 for the present roller the committee would be pre- pared to recommend the Council to purchase. Messrs. Aueling and Porter now wrote adhering to their terms, and the letter was, un the proposition of Mr. D. W. Jones, referred to the committee. THE WALL ALONG THE PLYMOUTH FKEPEP..—A discussion took place with regard to the ownership of the wall running, along the Plymouth Feeder, Lower High-street, which was reported to be in a very dilapidated condition, Mr. Bailey contending that the wall was not the property of hi-rornppnv.—On the pro- position of Mr. Dan Thomas, the clerk was instructed to write to Mr. Forrester, agent to 1.0:<1 Windsor, asking if he could enlighten the Council upon the matter. THE COAL CONTRACTS.—Mr. Livsey, coal merchant, not having written the Council with regard to a con- tract for the supply of coal, the matter was allowed to stand over. TRAMROAU-SIDE SEWAGE. -The committee ap- pointed to consider this matter rejxirt-ed having investigated the matter, and considered that the surveyor should be responsible for any nuisances arising from choked sewers, and that upon any com- plaint being made to the iu* pee tor or foreman they should communicate the same to the surveyor and medical officer, so that the work might !>e proceeded with and completed without delay.—The report was adopted. QUAKERS' YARD DRAINAGE CONTRACT.—The com- mittee reported having received the following tenders for the above-named work :—Mr. J. Bowen, £235 4s. M. Mr. J. Preeee, JB223 17s. 6d. Mr. W. ]h,-ies, £284 3. M., and accepted that of Mr. Preece. CABS COMMITTEE.—This committee reported that they had insjiected the brakes and approved of the same for hire as follows :—Mr. Samuel Dix to ply for hire between Merthyr and Dowlai«, to carry 18 p.issengers, and tü,p1y for hire between Merthyr and Celn for 12 persons Mr. W. Thorney to ply for hire between Merthyr and Cefn, and to carry 14 persons Mr. Rees Gain* to ply for hire Ijetween Merthyr and Cefn, and to carry 9 persons. The committee inspected the hackney carriage of Mr. W. Ree«, and approved of the same. Mes-is. Weekes and Cox and Mr. William Thomas applied for licences to ply between Merthyr and Dowlais and Troedyrhiw.— The letters were referred to committee.—The Cab Committee also reported having inspected Mr. Richard Winstoue's two brakes to ply for hire between Merthyr and Cefn and Merthyr and Dowlais re- speetively, and approved of the same.—An applica- tion was received from Mr. Thomas Davies, Bush Stables, for a brake licence to ply for hire between' Merthyr and Cefn.—The applications were granted, snd the Clerk was instructed to write to Mr. S. Dix that the Council hoped he would see his way clear to run his brakes every day. MORE ABOUT FIRE.—Some discussson took place with regard to having telephonic communication between Merthvr and the several reservoirs, but the Surveyor said the water was not t irned off from the main. The turn cocks could turn on the water any time in easeitf-firo.—Mr. Evan Lewis ^aid that new police constables were coining to Dowlais week after v'Hfcg, and in case of fire they would not know how to tmn off or turn on the water.—Tiie Chairman said the police would have to hnd the turn-cock*.—Mr. Lewis You may as well try to find a needle in a hay stack. RE-APPOINTUENT or INSPECTOR.—In accordance with notice, Mr. David Davies proposed the re- appointment of Mr. J. T. Owen as inspector of nuisances.—Mr. J. Owen seconded, and it was unani- monsiy agreed to. SL FT. THORNEV'H REPORTS.—Supt Thorney having reported a fire which occurred at Dowlais on the 13th instant, Mr. E. Lewis asked if a similar report was made when a fire occurred at Compton House, Dowlais, sometime ago.—He received a reply in the affirmative. THE DROUGHT.—The surveyor's tcpoit contained the following :—1 have to report that in pursuance of instructions on the 10th instant from the Waterworks Committee, we commenced pumping the water which would otherwise flow over the statutory gnage in excess of the due compensation water, hack into the Pentwyn Reservoir on the rooming of the 12th instant, and the pumping has been continued day and night. At five p.m. 011 that date the depth uf water in the reservoir wa" 14 feet 9 inches, and if has decreased about 9 inches since that date. At Neuadd Reservoir the depth of water has diminished aliout 27 inches in the same period of five days, and the storage in lx>th reservoirs is alarmingly low for this time of the year. There is a noticeable improvement tho last few days in the matter of excessive consumption of water, but I would urge the necessity of much greater economy on the part of the public in view of a continuance on the drought. Street watering is now only partially done with the object of saving water. I consider it advisable that the Heolgerrig and Clwydyfagwr mains should be supplied altogether from the Pentwyn Reservoir so as to diminish the diaw from Neuadd, and it would 1'ù a further saving if the water was shut on at Treharris between one and five daily, and at night from 10 p.m. to 4.30 because the Neuadd supply will probably fail eariier than the Pentwyn. In both cases the volume of water flowiug into the reservoirs is abnormally low, but the storage in Pelltwynis much greater than in the Neuadd Reservoir.—In reply to Mr. W. Lewis, the Surveyor said he bad endeavoured to keep the town and district constantly supplied with water. He believed he would be obliged to stop the water every day for a certain time the water could be supplied upon the present arrangement for about a week.—A discussion eusued, which for want of space we are unable to giv e, and eventually the surveyors recommendations were adopted. i BRECON-ROAD FEYEn HOSPITAL.—There being no patients in the Brecon-road Fever Hospital, it was agreed that the institution be repaired forthwith.—In reply to Mr. Evan Lewis, the Clerk said that both the Pant and Brecon-road Fever Hospitals were insured for JE1,000 each. THE MORLAIH BROOK.—A discussiou having arisen in regard to the reported offensive state of Morlais Brook, Mr. Dan Thomas moved that the surveyor make a report upon the matter, and that the clerk prepare a report with regard to the power of the Dow- ais Company to allow refuse to be washed down the stream also that the clerk make a similar report upon the Dowlais and Cyfarthfa Companies in the matter. The stream was as bad as any to he found in the country. The brook was in a very dangerous state at present. The matter was discussed at the Chamber of Trade meeting the previous night, and he (Mr. Thomas) had promised to bring the question before the Council.—Mr. Evan Lewis said that what- ever came from the Dowlais Works was more disin- fecting than anything else. He appealed to the nudical officer to say that nothing in the shape of sewerage came down the stream.—Mr, Wills There are lots of persons in the Dowlais Works who pollute the Morlais Brook.—Mr. Thomas Thomas said he would like to call attention to the state of the river beside the houses from the Iron Bridge to the Taff Vale Brewery. The nuisance was continually com- ing down to that place.—Dr. Dyke Some of the people constantly defy us. I have some notes about some of them.—Mr. Dan Thomas Has no attempt been made as far as the Dowlais Iron Company is concerned ? —Dr. Dyke I have reported this matter from time to time.—Mr. Dan Thomas: You have enlightened Mr. Evan Lewis.—Mr. Lewis I want you to point out where the nuisance comes from.— Mr. Dan Thomas From the works.—Mr. David Davies said that the stench arising from the brook near Mr. Thomas Jones' house was dreadful that day lie never smelt anything so bad. He had beeii coming that vvay for 30 years, aud he had never noticed anything so bad before. He thought the time had come when the urinals and water closets should empty into the main drain.—The resolution was agreed to. TENDERS-Mr. W. Lewis moved that tenders be invited for six months for the supply of iron work, bricks, kerb, and channelling, and so 011, instead of ordering these materials periodically. He argued that by his scheme the Board would save frum £300 to J3400 per annum they would get the materials for at least 1q per cent cheaper than at presept. lie referred to the need of economy, as the rates were 40 or 50 per cent. higher than they were in other towns. —Mr. J. Roberts seconded.—Mr. D. Davies considered Mr. Lewis out of place in making such a statement about the rates at that public Council meeting. It was wrong for any member to make such a misleading statement. —Mr. Evan Lewis supported the mover of the resolu- tion. If Mr. Davies had been present at the Finance Committee he would have fallen in with all Mr. Lewis had said.—Upon the suggestion of the Chair- man, Mr. Lewis allQwe^bi? motion to stand adjourned in order that the surveyor might prepare an estimate of the materials required. FISH PBESEPVATION ASSOCIATION.—A letter was read from Mr. Ji. T. James, solicitor, asking the Council to support a Fish Preservation Association in Merthyr. —The letter was referred to the Finance Committee. W AIIES ACCOUNT.—Mr. John Rol>ei t's motion for a return showing the amount of money spent in the various wards in wage*, &c., was again adjourned. RESIGNATION. — Mr. Charles Williams sent in his resignation as assistant-surveyor, and applied for a testimonial. — Mr. Dan Thomas proposed that the request 1*3 acceded to, aud remarked that the Council. were losing a very good assistant. — Mr. Thomas Thomas seconded, and it was agreed to. MISCELLANEOUS. — The Bridges' and Roads' Com- mittee reported that the dangerous state of the bridge across the Morlais Rh'er, which Mr. J. Lewis had called attention tD, had heen considered, and the sub-committee were a*ked to inspect the bridge and report thereon.—The complaint made by Mr. Harpur as to the sweeping of the High-street on dusty flays was referred to the surveyor to give his immediate attention thereto.—The committee rejiorted having inspected the bridges at. Penydarren, and found that the old iron bridge was in a < cry bad state of repair and dangerous to the publir, and recommended that the liquidator, Mr. Hender's, attention be directed to the matter.—Agreed to.

MERTHYR CHAMBER OF TRADE. Tuesday, Mr. D. J. Evans in the chair.—Present -J. P. Lewis, J. W. Hill, W. Meredith, E. Daniel, T. W. Goodfellow, D. Hunt, A. E. Haiti*. A. Daniel, Henry Bailey, F. Davies, Dan Thomas, E. P. Biddle, C. M. Davies, Dr. W. W. Jones, and George I pham (secretary). POSTAL FACILITIES. The Secretary stated that he had written to Mr. D. A. Thomas, M.P., and Mr. W. Pritchard Morgan, M.P., with regard to the better postal facilities for Merthyr, and had received a reply from Mr. Pritchard Morgan expressing sur- piisethat the late mail had not been established, but stating that probably the new arrangement would come into operation with the new half year in July. The hon. member had asked Mr. Morley, the Post- master-General, to extend the facilities to Mountain Ash and the Aberdare Valley generally, and make arrangements for a latedespatch from Aberdare Junc- tion. Mr. Upham said ho had also JVritten to the secretary of the General Post Office regarding the late mail to Troedyrliivv, and had received a reply stating that arrangements were being made for affording later night mail despatches for Troedyrhiw and Merthyr Vale, and that the arrangements came into operation on Monday last (hear, hear).—The Chairman thought they-could congratulate them- selves upon having scored another point, and their secretary deserved praise for the activity he had dis- played.—Mr. Arthur Daniel thanked the Chamber for taking such an interest in the matter, yet he would call attention to the fact that nothing had been Raid about having the late mail by the last train to the surrounding districts, and the postal authorities had failed to seetheir waycleartogranttheearly morn- ing d. livery. At first arrangements had been made for tliu collecting of London letters only, but upon representation being made to the authorities, instruc- tions had.been received to despatch aU letter". THE CAEDRAW BRilittE.—The Chairman reported that since the last meeting of the Chamber not very much had been done with regard to collecting the money towards defraying the expense of erecting the Caedraw Bridge. He would like to see all the subscriptions paid in, and they wanted about £20 ^niora to make up the jBlOO.—Mr. J. P. Lewis asked if the bridge was completed, and he would like to know whether the present representatives of the Town Ward had sub- sciibed.—Mr. E. P. Biddle Had Mr. Dan Thomas? —Mr. Dan Thomas No, and I don't intend to.—Mr. Biddle Then you are an artificial representative (laughter).—The, Chairman called Mr. Biddle to order. No one had a right to ask such questions. The bridge was not yet complete, the copings and walls had not been finished, and he did not think the Council should ask for the Chamber's contribution until the whole work was completed.—Mr. F. Davies suggested that the Council should go and examine the bridge before they paid over the money.—The Chair- man: As soon as the Council lets us know that the work is done we will hand over the money.—Mr. Arthur Daniel asked if an intimation had been con- veyed to the Council to that effect.—The Chairman did not think so.—Mr. Daniel Then we should send a communication to that effect, and I move that this be done.—Mr. J. P. Lewis seconded, and it was agreed to.—Mr. Ernest Daniel called attention to the terrible stench which arose from the feeder, and awked if nothing could be done towards getting the Council to remedy it.—The Chairman said he was quite in sympathy with Mr. Daniel, but that question did not arise just then.—Mr. Meredith It 18- the dry weather.—Mr. Biddle Let Mr. Daniel give notice.— Mr. Daniel There is no need to give notice. It is a question of emergency.—Mr. Biddle Then I shall object to your bringing the matter on.—The Chair- man It is a very important matter, but hardly in order.—Mr. J. P. Lewis said the same thing referred to the Iron Bridge.—The Chairman I must call you to order. We were dealing with the Caedraw Bridge.—Mr. Goodfellow These proceedings are cer- tainly irregular. We would be able to do our work better if we had less disturbance.—Mr. Biddle Then why do you disturb (laughter). THE ANNUAL OUTING.—The President stated that Mr. Upham had arranged matters very satisfactorily in regard to the annual out in?, which would take place on the 27th inst. Mr. Frank James had kindly invited the Chamber to his residence to partake ofluncheon, afterwbich they would proceed to LJalltwit Major for dinner. This was the first time the Chamber had been entertained by one of its own members. Mr. James had lived .In Merthyr, and having retired to his country residence, he very generously invited them to partake of his hospitality. They had reason to be very glad indeed that Mr. James had come forward in such a handsome manner, for it showed very clearly that he not only had very great respect for the Merthyr people, but held the Chamber in very high esteem. The tickets were ready, and he hoped that all the members of the Chamber would do all in their power to make the outing a success.—Mr. Meredith asked if there was :my restriction.—The Chairman replied that there was none whatever as far as Mr. ''rank James was concerned. The point had been raised by some members, but it should be understood that Mr. James not only invited the members of the Chamber, but all who came w th them. THE FEDERATED CHAMBERS.—The Secretary read the agenda of the annual meetings of the Federated Chambers of Commerce, which are held to-day (Thursday), at Pontypool, and said that the Merthyr delegates would leave at 12.35, and return by a special train provided by the G.W.R. about 10.40 p.m. The Merthyr delegates would consist of Messrs. D. J. Evans, the president, Arthur Daniel, W. W. Meredith, and E. W. Harris. THIRD-CLASS PASSENGERS.—A circular had been received from the Dowlais Chamber of Trade, asking the Chamber to support the application for the granting of third-class return tickets at reduced fares from the district to London and other impor- tant centres. The matter would come up for dis- cussion at the meetings of the Federated Chambers.— The President pointed out that at the request of the Federated Chambers, the Great Western Railway Company had promised to run a special train for their convenience from Pontypool-road to Merthyr.— After some conversation in the matter, Mr. J. F. Lewis moved that the delegates bo instructed to support the request at the Federated Chambers. — This was seconded by Mr. E. W. Harris and carried. LATE SUNDAY TRAINS ON THE TA) F. — The Secretary reported that he and Mr. Biddle had received a communication from Mr. W. H. Key, the president of the Pontypridd Chamber of Trade, asking them to support a requisition to the Taff Vale Railway Company to run their Sunday evening trains at nine o'clock instead of five as at present in conse- quence of the inconvenience felt by passengers to and from London, who had to wait three or four hours in Cardiff when going away, and who lost the last train on the Taff when returning. The Rhondda. people were taking up the matter, and wished the Merthyr folks to support them.—Mr. Meredith explained that some alterations had already been made In the Sun- day time-tables.—The President remarked that they did not feel the inconvenience in Merthyr so much as the people in the Rhondda and Pontypridd did, but in their case the Taff trains generally left Treherbert before the Swansea Bay train arrived on Sundays.— Mr. F. Davies thought they had better leave the matter alone, and at the suggestion of the President it was agreed to leave the matter in the hands of the Federated Chambers. NEW MEMBERS. — The following gentlemen were elected members of the Cham her — Messrs. William Lewis, painter, Poutmorlais William Phillips, White Horse Inn; W. Wall, Wellington- street W. B. Harris. High-street; W. Smitnson, lessee and manager of the Theatre Royal, and Arthur Jones, veterinary surgeon. XOTICESOF MOTION.—Mr. W. Meredith gave notice that he would bring forward at the next meeting the desirability of doing something to welcome the 41st Regiment on their visit to Merthyr on the 30th of July.—Mr. T. W. Goodfellow gave notice that he would move a resolution with a view to dispense with the delivery and dispatch of letters from Merthyr on Sundays. HONOURING THE PRESIDENTS.—Mr. Henry Bailey suggested that a tabulated form should be obtained for the purpose of lecording thereon the names of all the presidents of the Chamber.—Mr. Arthur Daniel suggested that the past presidents should present the Chamber with the board.—Mr. Meredith said they had conserved a fund in the bank for thepurposeof erec- ting a chamber for holding their meetings, and when that became an accomplished fact they could decorate it as they wished.—The President thought the suggestion worthy of their consideration. If it was adopted perhaps it would induce some of the younger members to look anxiously forward to the time when their names would be enrolled on the form.—Mr. Meredith pointed out that the Merthyr Chamber of Trade was the first of the kind established in the kingdom, and something of that surt should be done to perpetuate its memory.- Mr. Bailey gave notice that he would bring forward the matter at the next meeting. ?- -?'u_.+-

I CYMANFAR SIR AT TROEDYRHIW. The Welsh Congregationalists of Glamorgan met in J TT7CJ Chapel, Troedyrhiw, on Tuesday and Wednesday, where the annual Cymanfa of the | county was held. Preaching sen ices were held on 1 uesday, and a Dublic eonferencc on Wednesday, when resolutions dealing with general politics, and matters affecting religion, and the denomination par- ticularly wery passed.—The President, the Rev. J. Roberts, Neath, read an able paper on the Licen- tiousness of the Age." There were about 150 ministers present. Dinner "and tea had been provided at Saron Hall, where the catering wa9 carriea out by Messrs. Price, Bras., of Troedyrhiw, who discharged their duties in a manner which reflected great credit upon them. The plants and decoration, had been kindly lent by Mr. T. H. Bailey, J.P., and the crockery by Messrs. Williams and Co., Brecon. .?

CRIC||HOWELL GUARDIANS. Monday.—he following were present :—Messrs. Juo. Richards (vice-chairman presiding), Aldermen J.J. Lyddon and J. A. Doyle, Henry Sykes, Lewis TTope, Thomas Jones, Thomas Richards, Rev. W. It. TTope, Thomas Jones, Thomas Richards, Rev. W. It. Edward i, T. Jones-Parry, C.C., T. Powell, William Kosser, T. Phillips, J. Phillips, Joseph Jones, R. Morgan, W. Morris, J. W. Davies, Lewis James, J. Blennerhassett (clerk), Mr. D. Evans (R.O.) and Mr. T. Jones (acting R.U.), Mr. Bircham (poor law inspector), was also present. SENT TO THE WRONG PAPER.—After the minutes were read, Alderman Lyddon pointed out that it was to the Merthyr Times, and not to the other Merthyr paper, that it was decided to send the advertisement tor a general servant.—Mr. Sykes bore Aid. Lyddon out.—The Clerk replied that the advertisement had been sent in mistake to the other Merthyr paper. He was sorry for the mistake. STATISTICS.—Number of inmates in the house at the end of the previous week, 61 corresponding period, 77. The number of vagrants relieved during the fortnight was 25. THE WINE.—Mr. J. Ward Davies, referring to the supply of wine for use at the house, asked whether the sacramental wine was fermented or unfermented. —It was stated in reply that the sacramental wine and the wine for the sick were the same, and were recommended by the medical officer. PENSIONS.—Mr. Jones-Parry asked what the rule was as regards pensioning officers employed by the Board.—The Chairman remarked that so far as the clerk of their Board waa concerned, it had been definitely laid down that there was to be no pension. —Mr. Jones-Parry was going to make some further remarks, when Alderman Lyddon said that they should not waste time in that manner.—The Chair- man said that it was superfluous.—Mr. Jones-Parry I do not think so, and I should like to give notice. INSPECTOR'S REPORT. — Mr. Bircham, inspector, reported .having visited the house in the previous week. He made several remarks on the state of the place. There were very few people there who appeared able to do any work, and the place was not clean. The day nursnry was very dirty, and he should like to call attention to many little things that were wanted in the infirmary. Complaint* were made by some of the inmates as to the quality of the food. He (the inspector) hoped that under the new management things would be improved. The workhouse hooks (those that he had been able to see) were behind, and the clerk should see to this.—After the inspector's remarks had been read, Mr. Bircham, speaking to the Board, said that he had the courage of his convictions, and he wished to back up the remarks that he had made in the book. He might tell them that he had not been at that workhouse for a year previously. Since that visit Mr?. Phillips, the late matron, had died. He much regretted her death, for she had been a very valuable officer. He was now glad to have had a chance of visiting the workhouse, which wanted very careful supervision on the part of the Guardians. He did not wish to make exaggerated statements. He wished to say that a ladies' visiting committee would provo ot great help. The ratepayers had not been gallant enough to elect any ladies on the Board, but the Board could, however, if they chose, appoint a committee of ladies, who would bo able to relieve the Board of many little things. He should be sorry to keep the kitchen in such a state as it way. He went to the sickroom, but there was no knives for meals, only a few rusty old spoons and a couple of forks. There were old men in the house who could keep ail these littlH things in proper order, and it would give them something to do, which would be much better than to see them complaining and mooning about with their hats down over their heads. He (Mr. Biicham) tasted the soup that was served up on the day of his visit. He liked soup as a rule, but he did not think that the soup he then tasted was good. He went to t the infectious-room, but he could not stay in it owing to the smell. It was, in fact, in a beastly state. The day nursery was like a dirty cottage. It struck him (Mr. Bircham) that there were not enough male in- mates to do work at the house. There was no doubt that there were many getting relief who should be in the house. Everything in the house should he kept clean. Let not the Board think that he was finding fault with the visiting committee. He knew, how- ever, how things could be kept hetter if the committee took proper steps. Consequently he thought it would be well if they tried to get a ladies' committee they could visit the" house when the dinner was on, or when the tea was on, and ou other occasions, so that they might see how things were going on.— Alderman Doyle said with regard to Mr. Birch am' remarks as to the ladies, that there were some ladies who visited the workhouse at present. The matter of appointing an official committee had lieen dis- cussed at a former meeting of the Board, and the ladies on being consulted said that they preferred to act unofficially.—Mr. Bircham replied that those ladies came to the house in a bon^S olent way. b ;t the committee that he had in mind was one who knew about practical housework. They could not expect those ladies who visited the house in a benevolent way to go round tho kitchen and other similar places. —Mr. J. Ward Davies said that he felt at the time that the ladies' committee question was discussed that the Board had made a mistake in not appointing a ladies' committee.—Rev. W. R. Edwards gave notice to move that a ladies' committee be appointed at the next Board meeting.—The Clerk said that ;oilH,(> Mr. Bircham had referred in hi" report to the books being behind in being posted up, he thought that it WiM his (clerk's) duty to explain the matter so far as he was concerned. He had not been too severe, and situated as Miss Phillips was, he had not pressed her on the matter of posting the books up to date. There was also another reason, and that was the difficulty in getting the tradesmen to send their invoices back in time so that the books might he done up. He had to wire several tradesmen to send their invoices. He had since seen Miss Phillips who had said that the books would he posted up to the 29th, and he had every confidence that when Miss Phillips made such a promise she would carry it out (hear, hear).—Rev. W. H. Sinnett asked the clerk to read the minutes with reference to the discussion on the matter of appointing a ladies' committee.—The Clerk did so.— Chairman So vou see that we have had the matter discussed.—Mr." T. Jones-Parry, referring to Mr. Bircham's remarks that there were paupers "ho ought to be inside the liouce, asked whether the Board could compel them to come in.—Mr. Bircham replied that there was no law to bring paupers from their homes to the house. DIETARY.—Mr. Bircham, speaking with regard tu the above (particulars of which appeared in .i. rtceiit issue of the Merthyr Time?), said that it was an excellent one.; he had not seen a better one (hear, hear). VISITING THE HOUSE.—An entry by Messrs. Jones- Parry, C.C., and T. Richards stated that they had recently visited the house and found the rooms clean. Complaints were made in the infirmary as to the supply of tobacco.—There was also an entry by Mr. John Richards who reported that the children's day room was not as it should be.—Mr. Jones'-Parry, speaking with regard to the former entry, said that the men in the infirmary complained that they had no tobacco for a week. The tobacco question wanted to be settled onto and for all. It was a farce to pass resolutions and then not to carry them out.—Chair- man I support Mr. Bircham's report; thirigs were not like what they used to be in the house. The day room was filthy.—Rev. W. R. Edwards The report of our visitors' does not agree with the report of Mr. Bircham.—Mr. Thomas Richards said that the visitors only went through the best parts (laughter). STREET BETTING.—A letter was received from the Wolverhampton Union with reference to a resolution in favour of getting power for the local authorities of every town to deal with street gambling more directly and effectually.—Clerk Do you want me to read the resolution ? — Chairman No. — The matter was allowed to drop. RELIEF.—With reference to the case at Dukestown of a woman, who, it was alleged, had 4s. on her card, but was only receiving 3s., it was stated that the woman in question had had her relief reduced to 3s. THE PORTER.—Alderman Doyle moved, in the absence of Mr. Beck with, that a porter be appointed for the house.—Mr. Ward Davies moved as an amendment that an inmate of the workhouse he selected for the post of porter, and that his services bo acknowledged by improved diet. He proposed that W. Edmunds be appointed, and thus relieve the ratepayers of the j340 that they had to pay for a porter at. present.—The Clerk said that there were three applications for the post of porter, viz., from J. P. Bradshaw (30 years of age), Bristol Albert Warrington (24), Abergavenny and James B. Field (35), West Bromwieh.—Mr. T., Jones-Parry proposed the appointment of Mr. Field.—Mr. T. Powell seconded.—After some discussion, it was decided that Messrs. Field and Bradshaw should appear before the Board.—Mi'. Ward Da vies Now that the house will be without a porter for some time, I propose that'Mr. W.Edmunds be appointed pro tern, (laughter). GENERAL SERVANT.—An application was received from Miss Annie Little, Victoria Hotel, Ebbw Vale, for the above post, but it was decided to await until next Board day, to see what further applications would be received.—Mr. Jones-Parry thought that jierhaps there might be someone in the house able to discharge the duties. TREASURER.—Mr. Wheldon, Metropolitan Hank, wrote resigning the treasurers hip of the uniou, as he was leaving for Hereford, and recommended the appointment of the new manager, Mr. Vigors, as his successor.—Alderman Lyddon proposed that the resignation be accepted.—This was agreed to, and 011 the pro[K>sition of Mr..Jones-Parry, it was decided to make a record of Mr. Wheldon's faithful services.— On the proposition of Mr. Ward Davies, Mr. Vigors was appointed successor to Mr. Wheldon. NOTICE OF MOTION.—Mr. T. Jones-Party L'ave notice to move that the whole of the Visiting Com- mittee should meet a quarter-of-aiuhour before each Board, in order to examine the list of requisites for the ensuing fortnight.

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A DAY AT LLAXTHOM. Out Dowlais reporter writes Ever since he deli- vered those magnificent and instructive addresses at the Brecon and Swansea National Eisteddfodau, Father Ignatius has won the hearts of the n:ore in- telligent among our countrymen, notwithstanding that an unreal age delights to sneer at his no doubt eccentric, but unquestionably earnest efforts to carry out his idea of Christian worship. When, therefore, it was decided that the annual picnic of the Dowlais English Church Sunday School teachers should he held in the far-famed Vale of Ewias, the invitations that were sent out to a numlter of friends were eagerly and gratefully accepted, and men and women alike looked forward with pleasurable anticipation to a trip that would bring them to the home of the elo- queut and self-sacrificing Mynach yr Eglwys Gymraeg." Thursday last, the day of the excursion, dawned brilliantly fine. The train was annonnced to leave Dowlais shortly before ten. The railway offi- cials had very kindly placed two saloons at our service, as well as a number of their best carriages, and we merrily sped on our way to Aijergavonriy, close upon a hundred of us. At Gilvvern the party were joined by the Rector of Dowlais. who had been spending his brief holiday in piscatorial pleasure in the Llangynidr district. On our detraining at Aber- gavenny we found some the or six huge brakes drawn up outside the railway station, and having safely seated ourselves in them we started on one of the most glorious drives I have ever experienced. Mile after mile we passed through a panoramic vista of Nature's luxuriant loveliness. In the branches of the huge trees that could be seen on every hand the birds were ninging their sweetest, and in the fields the cattle lazily reclining, their hollow lowing breaking in a^n with a sound that silenced the twitter of the feathered warblers or the humming of the insects. The air was heavy with the scent of roses and of new mown hay, and with the fragrance of the honeysuckle, the hare- bell, and the blue forget-me-not. At several points in the journey we passed under canopies formed by the intertwining foliage of the trees on both sides of our path, and at others the ripe haws on the thorn might be plucked with ease did one care to stretch out one's hand to the prickly bush. Through a jiatli like this, with the azure expanse above, and a host of happy faces all around, who could'not IIÜ joyous, for- getful of yesterday and heedless of to-morrow ? This drive extended for ten or a do;:en miles, and came all too soon to an end. Then it was that WI; found ourselves right under the sdadow of the great old abbey whose name is familiar to all, but whose situation and appearance are sealed ttook* to so many thousands oi habitual trippers. It i" not necessary here to describe the architecture, or to narrate the history of Llanthony. Any tolerably large volume of British antiquarian lure will tell how Hugh de Laci, one of the barons of William the Conqueror, in company with his brother William, while on a hunting expellitiuiI in the vicinity, came accidentally upon the former abode of Sr. David, the patron saint of Wales, in the Valley of the Ewias h»w an abbey was built on the sacred sjx>t, and supported by the genero-sitv of Hugh and the sanc- tity of William how being situated on the border- land of England and Wales, the place was constantly invaded aDd plundered how in consequence of this the priors and monks relaxed the rigour of their duties, and fell into disreputable modes of life; how in 1136 all the privileges and endowments of Llan- thony passed to New Llanthony on the banks of the Severn 111 Gloucestershire. All this may he easily learned, and it may be as easily imagined how the place, robbed and denuded of alt that tended to make it great and powerful, crumbled into decay. Yet even to-day, Llandewi- Nant-Honddu, to give it its full name, is a noble pile, and one well worth visiting. Situated amid the mountains, it is an ideal place for an outing in the summer, and if the tripper care" uot for the crumbling towers and massy columns, he may find delight in the noble garden, which now occupies what was the moit sacred part ot the abbey. Luucheon was served in the open air, under the shadow of the line of columns that once divided the nave from the western aisle. There was a large assortment of good things to tempt the appetite that the long drive had quickened, and needless to say ample justice was done to them. The repast was over by about two o'clock, no doubt to the great satis- faction of the native waiter, who was a splendid specimen of Giles Evergreen, and could not figure up the cost of half-a-dozen bottles of ginger pop if it were to save his adamantine head. Father Ignatius' home is situated some four or five miles from the old abbey, and the road is most difficult, being littla else than a huge chmtux de frige, with a plentiful supply of etoues. Such a walk is extremely fatiguing, although it lies through a most beautiful country. We learn from one of the inemlwrs of the committee which organised the outing, that it was. distinctly stated that Father Iauatius' pla'-e could only be reached on foot, that it was impossible to reach it either in a brake or on horseback. But after the luucheon some of the party got two traps, and dashed off in the direction of the monastery. leaving the others to follow or remain as the inclination impelled them. Before setting out for Father Ignatius' home, the vast majority of the party visited the old church close to the abbey, where it was found that excavations were being carried out. Bones weie being dug out from Iteneath the uav e, and altogether there was an eerie look about the place which made one eager to regain the open air. Close to the church is the village school in which the master solemnly jiresided over a dozen pupil*, one of whom had her hair done up, and Inoked old enough to manage a house. The schoolmaster said that he had thirty names ou the register, and all the standards were represented, although that day the highest and lowest classes contained but one memher each. Then we set out ml our long journey to the home of the Monk of Llanthony, and we reached it in good time, the couple of workmen who were doing something to the entrance gate remaining silent as we passed in. The door of the little church was open, and we passed into the porch, at the end of which was another door, but a very small one, being only some four feet high or thereabouts. Passing through this door we found ourselves in a gloomy building from which the light was almost shut out. The sudden change fiom the blazing sunlight to this dark church almost blinded some of us, and we were glad to g?t into the open air again. Inside the church, it should be stated, the altar was beautifully lighted with scores if not hundreds of candles, which looked like stars on a dark night, when one leaves a well- lighted room Before the altar a monk in strange raiment was kneeling in silent prayer, and he remained in that position during the whole time we were there. By this time the party had broken up into small groups, all bent upon carrying exploration to the furthest possible limit. On coming out from the Church distressed nature triumphed over the conven- tionalities, and one of our party, a lady, going up to a couple of monks who were standing at a little door in the monastic building to the right of the church, asked the nearest of them for a glass of water. With pleasure," answered the good monk, and added, "kindly go round to the porch and wait a moment." We silently blessed the good man for the expected boon, and went to the porch, as he had directed. Some dozen or more members of our party had already gathered in frout of this porch, and they good naturedlv informed us that "you must uot go into the porch," but the declaration that we have a special invitation" was too emphatic to admit of contradiction. While we were waiting and longing for the hoon of cold water Father Ignatius himself appeared, attired in the long black robe which had made him such a conspicuous object at the eisteddfod, and with uncovered head. He smilingly and cordially welcomed the rector and the other members of the group to Llanthouy, and said, had he known of our cominglt would have given him great delight to prepare a tea for us all. That day- was the festival of Corpus Christi, a very solemn one indeed, and prayer was being continually offered up. The rector bade the good monk not trouble about such a thing as a tea, saying that we had already made arrangements. Father Ignatius repeated his welcome, and said it would always be a pleasure to him to welcome those who were engaged in teaching the knowledge of Jesus Christ. He went on to deliver a most eloquent address on the duties of Sunday School teachers, and nobody who watched him could doubt the man's extraordinary earnestness. While lie was speaking, a small sliding door in one side of the portlh opened, and a voice enquired whether those who had besought water would accept milk instead. At the same time a huge jug and a couple oi glasses ona wooden tray were passed through the aperture, which was immediately closed again with the sliding door. Such liosjiitality as this almost took one's breath away, and was proof that asceticism and hospitality are a feature of the modern as they were of the ancient abbeys. After having welcomed our party a" above stated, Father Ignatius walked to the church, and offered up an earnest prayer. Then he came to us again. The good monk having received our a*»;<Hanee that we should like to see the place, conducted us into a long room on the ground floor, on the walls of which hung large school maps of Africa and other places. From theuco he conducted us to the cloisters of the monks. Noting that there were some dozens of ladie- in the party Father Ignatius, with surprising agility, ran towards them to prevent them entering the sacred meditation place of the monks and holding up his hands and shak- ing with greater warmth than wince the historic day at Swansea, he said, Oh, ladies, you will kindly not come here. Our rules are very strict. and I really cannot alio.w you here. 1 am very sorry, but I cannot help iLand I hajie you will stay outside.1' Of course, the daughters of Eve retired, and Father Ignatius conducted us to the cloisters, a beautifully wooded place walled '-iff from the iCst of the building, and with a pretty fountain in the centre. Around it are wooden seats with small tables at intervals no larger than a lady s work table. It v. v\hile we stood in this inviting testing place that the ki^dlv old monk jrave us a good deal of v alualjleiuformatiaa. IheKev. Aubrey Hailf. curate of <jeilyfa<i<log, acini for the most part it" spokesman of the company, in reply to him (Mr. Baile i»< evidently a,bora inter- -I viewer) the venerable priest said that the monastic life was full of trials and hard struggles. He had carried on the movement for more than 30 years, and be bad been at that place for about 25 years. The abbey was not endowed in any way, and it was sup- ported entirely by his preaching. He was away from the abbey for about six months out of every year, and it was the money he collected on I those occasions, which maintained the brotherhood throughout the year. Mr. Baile said that a report had reached us that he (Father Ignatius) would not lie at home that day, but the venerable monk said he was very glad to be at home to welcome those who took an interest in the work of religion. He would be leaving very soon to attend the Church Congress at j Norwich. They might reinemijt-r that he had been I refused a hearing at the congress in Birmingham two years.ago, but he did not think with Mr. Baile that Birmingham was the worst town he could speak at. He attributed his failure to get a bearing at that con- ;1 gress solely to the influence of Bishop Perowne. Hs had spoken at the congress in Exeter lapt year, and that meeting was much the most enthusiastic and the best attended of any. There were great crowds in the streets on that occasion, and he did not think that after what had occurred then he tóhould be refused a hearing at any future congress. In any case he was 'I going to Norwich. The people were always very kind to him wherever he went. He was frequently visited by people of all shades of religious opinions; members of the Church, the Welsh Church, very often called upon him sometimes, too, adherents to the Roman faith visited the abbey, and that he looked upon as very strange the Dissenting bodies, too, looked with kindly interest upon his labours. Indeed, it was only the other day that be had received a very kind letter from a Dissenting minister thanking him (Father Ignatius), and saying that he had been greatly impressed by what he had seen and heard at Llan- thony. Those expressions of interest were very gratifying to him. In reply to questions relating to the state of the monastery, Father Ignatius repeated that the monastic life was full of trials and struggles, and often of disappointment. There had never been more than about half-a-dozen members of the little community, and very often the number was leas. Of couise very many more came there, but they left I aeain after a while. Some remained only for a few weeks, but some had rem ainedcp long ap eigb tyears. But the desire to return to the outer world was evidentlv too great to lie resisted, and none of the brethren bad ever remained longer than eight years. That was no doubt as much due to the severity of the rules as to us ¡I the natural desire to be in the bustling world. The rules of the Benedictines were very strict, and men | had repeatedly failed to exhibit that austerity which those rules imposed upon them. It did not appear to him that it was likely that a community could be founded, and lie regretted it because it lent strength to the contention ot the Roman Catholics that the monastic institution could not flourish in any other religion than their own. Yet that contention was untrue, as the monastic institution existed in con- I nection with the Greek, the Armenian, and other churches, and he could not see why it should not I flourish in connection with the Welsh Church. Though the work appeared hopeless of realisation, still it would go on while he had life. But they (his listeners) must not think that life was altogether filled with sorrow and trials they were very happy together, shut out from the world on every side by the eternal mountains, and knowing not of the strifes that were raging without. To him there was no more beautiful mode of spending life than in the contem- plation and meditation of God and his co-equal Son. and they felt that they were especially blest. He was I in the habit of setting apart certain portions of the Scriptures to meditate upon that week the passage was At the feet of Jesus." After a few further remarks the venerable father concluded. It should be stated that from first to last the countenance of Father Ignatius never lost its benign mobility; not even when he referred to the conduct of Bishop Perowne did he betray the least signs of the resent- ment which other men would feel, nor was there any raising of the voice, flushing of the cheek, or blazing of the eye when he expressed his determination of carrying on the work as long as life should last. Altogether one felt that one was in the presence of a true and earnest man, such a one as we would like to imagine all true Christians to be, but which so few are. Ink- we were in the cloisters Father Ignatius called a fair-haired child named Ernest, such a child as Reynolds would have taken as a model for his Heads of Angels, and bade him bring a can of water with effervescence applied, and while the little fellow ran away to execute the order the rev. father conducted us to the vestiary, and afterwards to other parts of the abbey, including the music room. There are two jtianos and an organ at Llanthony, and on one of the former we noticed the sacred song, "Nazareth." Then back again into the open, and up a double flight of steps which we had previously passed with curiosity not unmixed with awe, and we were shown the 'sleeping apartments of the monks and those set apart for the use of guests and pilgrims. The party were entertained with biscuits, cakes and ærated waters, the rev. father repeating his previous statement that it would have given him great pleaenre to have prepared a nice tea for all the party if he had known we were coming to visit him. With mutual thanks and good wishes and a l>enediction by the rev. gentleman o-ir party left him, deeply impressed with nis kindness and his courtesy. I have said that when F; ther Ignatius conducted us into the cloisters he went back, and bade the lady members of the party not enter. The- obeyed the request, and went on an t xploriug expedition on their own account. They fell in with one of the sisters or nuns whom we bad seen flitting across the pathway earlier in the afternoon, and she conducted them into the nuns' quarters, and entertained them pretty much as the males had been entertained by the venerable prior himself. Then as the shadows were beginning to lengthen we quitted the solemn home of religion among the mountains and trudged back to the old abbey over the same tiring pathway we had wended some hours earlier. Tea was partaken of in the same romantic place, the brakes were brought into line, and we started back to Abergavenny, which was reached in safety. Ihe homeward journey waa as full of merry making as when we set out in the morn- ing, but there was one universal feeling of regret, namely, that night had so soon darkened down upon our One Day of Roses." It only remains to be added that Miss M. J. Hirst, Charlotte-street, acted as secretary to the committee, under whose direction the outing took place.

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