Merthyr Times and Dowlais Times and Aberdare Echo

#->- A Fine Collection of Violins, to be cleared out regardless of cost, at PHILLIPS' MUSIC WAREHOUSE, 5, Canon Street, Aberdare. Sole Agent for the celebrated Justin Browne Pianos. F- Pianos by any maker taken in exchange. Dean's Patent Stands, 4s. 6d. each. Henry's Piano Tutors, Is. 6d. each. Orders for Sheet Music (song8), English or Wwluli, promptly attended to. ABERDARE. THE JJMPIRE MUSIC HALL Recreation Grounds (Entrance, High-sfcre«t). MANAGER Mn. W. EVANS. FIRST-CLASS ARTISTES Admission, 6d., 1s., 8a. Half-price at 9 o'clock to all seat Except xallerv.

F. TWISSELL, Market-place, Aberdare, wholesale and retail Glass and China dealer. Publicans and others supplied at short notice. O" Our reporter for Aberdare, Hirwain, Aberaman, Cwmbach, Trecynon, Cwmaman, and Cwmdare is *lr. P. Lewis, 11, Upper Regent-street, Aberdare, who will be pleased to be notified of meetings, held in any of the above places, and also to receive advertise- ments, &c. THE BEST AND CHOICEST CIGAlIS are sold by Miss Oeppeti, of Merthyr, who has taken over Mr. Wake's wholesale and retail tobacco and cigar business at Commercial-place, Aberdare. Good Cigar, five or "eyou for Is. All Tobaccos are sold at moderate Prices. Walking-sticks, Pouches, Cigar and Cigarette ~?ses, Pipes of a hundred different kinds, Fancy ipes, and other useful articles, suitable for Christmas ltll(1 New Year's Presents. Don't forget to give a call. Commercial-place, Aberdare. [5096 DKWI MABON.—A movement is on foot for making a suitable presentation to this popular gentleman. PERSONAL.—Sir W. T. Lewis, Bart., is now con- valescent. t Mr. MERRIMAN'S TESTIMONIAL.—This testimonial has been taken up well. PERSONAL.—Lady Lewis, Miss Lewis, and Mr. H. Lewis have arrived at Adelaide, Australia. ■TTLORSTOWN DISASTER.—The Aberdare Grocers' Association have sent a guinea to the fund in aid of the sufferers at the above disaster. TYLORSTOWN DISASTER.—Mrs. White, daughter of late D. Davies, Maesyffynon, Aberdare, has sent 5*>0 towards the fund in aid of the sufferers of the ylorstown disaster. Ministerial.—The Rev. R. Morgan, C.C., is ea\ ing tjje town ta^e Up hj,- residence at Barry. Alie reverend gentleman's departure is much re- setted. I THKATKICAL.—Miss F. Raynor's company have occupying the boards of the New Public Hall P'jTheatie with The Curse of Gold and Slums 01 Paris." SAfALI.-Pox.-Another case of small-pox has been Parted. The victim came to the town from Ponty- J, 'dd and lodged in a house in Dare-street. He was etlioved to the Infectious Diseases Hospital. A r?MsiTy.—At this place of worship on Sunday night, 2a'SS fillips, a favourite soloist from Carmarthen, to IK a ren(lering of Cowen's Promise of Life," "e delight of a large congregation, p ^REejiasonky.—We are informed that the High ^table of Aberdare, Mr. L. N. Williams, has been yeacte(i W.M. of St. David's Lodge for the ensuing I)ay" The installation will take place on St. David's inPISTRlOT COUNCIL.—Mr. J. W. Evans, C.C., as a candidate for No. 3 Ward at the thcoming District Council election. Mr.^ T. mas» Graig House, the retiring councillor, does 0t aeek re-election. ^Unitarian CHURCH, HIGHLAND-PLACE, ABERDARE, A series of discourses are being delivered on Sunday eningg at the above church on Protestant Princi- P,le* as Understood by Unitarians." Subject for February 23rd Further Reformation Needed." DAKoixs.—The Teachers' Dancing Class was in. durated at the Constitutional Hall on Friday night. A Here was a good attendance, and the class is likely have a successful session. Mr. Notton is M.C., Jliss Phillips fee ret-ary, and Miss Morris, treasurer. Ane Aberdare Quadrille Club has been engaged to supply the music. THE LATE INSPECTOR.—At a meeting of G.W.R. employees lately, it was decided to start a fund and Present the money to Mrs. Morgan, widow of the late Inspector Morgan. The deceased was a great favour- ite with the employees of the G.W.R., and his death is very deeply regretted. Sad ACCIDENT.— A very sad accident befel a youne man named W.lham J. John, living at Aberdare 2 Friday morning last. It appears that whilst an engine was being shunted at the Taff Railway Station the young man fell heavily w»iil«t jumping off the> engine, With the result that he broke his leg. He 1>eu,?UT remove(i to the hospital, where Dr. Jjor Jones amputated the leg. Triers.—The Aberdare Harriers had two runs am in the direction of Cwmbach and Aber- „ an» the course being three miles. There was a Tu nuif,ter on each occasion. The first four home at auH T*ay'8 run were O. Morgan, E. Lewis, J. Deere, Wer or ^>av'"H- The first three home on Thursday Mor £ an> E. Lewis, and Ivor Davies. On Rood ^?cas*on O. Morgan came in a good first, being a distance ahead of his competitors. DiI,^K.—At the Empire Theatre this week Messrs. Car D anc^ Handon's Company are appearing in "A re-written by Edgar Rodney and tjjL "on. The play is in three acts. Next week tainm a Kreat attraction at this place of enter- havei601' w^en the Steens will appear. The Steens an(j described as exceptionally clever artistes, freDi t'6 • ve no doubt but that they will sustain their o-j- ation next week. Their feats are of an extra- tory nature- I)av^NlNG School.—On the 11th instant Mr. Thomas abll,es'j s"rvey°r'. Cwmaman Colliery, read a very foil ^nstructive paper on "Explosives." The' AT °wmg took part in the discussion :—Messrs. Fisher Da r £ an> Spring Hill Villa J. E. Davies, and T. E. Gadlys D. R. Llewellyn, surveyor, Bwllfa CwVa Shaw, junior, Gadlys; and Rees Owen, ain ainan'- Mr- Alljel't Railton, surveyor, Aber- an> presided. The paper was so important that all f?eni'-{ers could not have sufficient time to tackle 25th ePoints, so the debate was adjourned until the will lns^ant, when it is to be hoped that the paper >u be well thrashed out. A cordial welcome is ended to all to attend. ar« WISS CHOIR.—Mr. Arthur Brogden's Swiss Choir m Paying a welcome return visit to Aberdare, com- v ttClno to-night (Thursday) at the Public Hall. We e Ve Qo doubt but that there will be crowded audi- i °Ces fach night. Mr. Brogden has undertaken to produce a new male party, headed by Gwyn Alaw, l>opular Welsh tenor. It was Mr. Brogden who p roduced the Welsh party, now at the London •spire, to an English audience. Next Sunday the a>f\,r giyo two sacred concerts. A special 0j ?a 'tion of the choir is Miss Ada Le Butt, the lrv°yant and medium, and whose marvellous per- "•nances must V>e seen to be appreciated. R A Boo STORY.—The Elyiu Courant and Courier Ute-s a remarkable story respecting a dog owned by •ir* Douald Cameron, brother to Mr. Cameron, Chfton-street, Aberdare. Here is the stoiy: of stor'es have generally to l>e taken with a grain J Salt, as the saying goes, but I am able this week to jpve you a genuine one. Mr. Donald Cameron, Aorul>reck, has a collie dog rejoicing in the euphonious name of 'Peter.' Peter is a dog of no ordinary j*lent. He is the niont intelligent dog we have ever ad in our glen. If his master wishes to communi- ate with any of the farms round about, a note is "Tttten and given to Peter, who has the route pointed QI!t to him and away he goes. He delivers his letter ith apeed and certainty, and hies him home again. entrusted with a parcel, the contents of which >,Very other dog would be only too ready to devour, j resists all temptation, and recognising that he s&dog with a mission, delivers his parcel untouched, and nat after a tramp of perhaps a mile. He is most useful a« delivering letters. The Post Office at Bridge of Ti°n two miles distant, and letters have to be galled for. When anyone from the district is there y^ey take the letters for all. If Mr. Cameron does so brings tbem home. Peter takes a great pride in delivering them. Perhaps he may yet go for them. t is not too much to expect, seeing that he never got auy training, but took to it spontaneously. I have 0Qly imperfectly recounted Peter's ability, but it has one recommendation-it is a true tale. Can any of your readers go one better ?'' AMATEUR CONCEIlT.-On Thursday, Feb. 13th, an aOlateur concert was held at the Bowen Jenkins M-emoriul Hall. The concert was got up by Mrs. **ees, Maesyffynon, and Miss Joseph-Watkin, the Proceeds being in aid of procuring a piano for the Aberdare Girls' Club. The concert proved a very suc- Oftsful one, and the ladies in question are to be con- gratulated upon the success that has attended their praiseworthy efforts. The hall had been prettily decorated with flowers, evergreens, and plants, kindly Siven by Mrs. Rees, Maesyffynon Mrs. James ■^wis, Plasdraw and Mrs. Rees, Glandare. The Jjhairman for the evening was the Vicar of Aberdare. be violincello solo, by Mr. Morgan Morgan, was very creditable, and the recitation, Firm Friends," by Miss Nancy Rees and Miss Tickey Morris, was so ^vell given as to command an encore. The flute solo, W Mr. Gregorie, was a very artistic performance, and ~*r. Phil Rhys' recitation took well. All the other 'tems were also greatly appreciated. We append a £ °Py of the programme Pianoforte duet, The ^aliph of Bagdad," Mrs. Rees and Miss Joseph- catkin song, "The Promise of Life," Miss Beatrice Lewis violincello solo, Gondoliera"—" Mazurka," Morgan Morgan song, Y Deryn Pur," fvev. J. S. Longdon^; recitation, Firm Friends," ■"liss Nancy Rees and Miss Tickey Morris (encored) song, The Old, Old Way," bfrs, Bankes, with violin ^oligato by Miss Edwards trio, Selection from ^artha," Mrs. Rees, Miss Edwards, and Mr. Jfregorie duet, Oh, That we Two Were Maying," i}}e Misses Churchill; violin solo, A Spanish ^ance," Miss Edwards glee, Oh Hills, Oh Vales ?f Pleasure," Glee Party pianoforte solo, Regatta ^eneziana," Mrs. Rees; song, "Flight of Ages," *iss Beatrice Lewis; mandoline and piano duet, La Serenata Yalaeca," Miss Ida Joseph-Watkin ?^d Miss Joseph Watkm; song, Simon the ^ellarer," Mr. Davies; recitation, selection from Mark Twain," Mr. Phil Rhys; song, "Love's ^octurne," Miss Alice Joiies flute solo, Air.'j *,rom the Bohemian Girl," Mr. Gregorie song, Yn ^yft'ryn Clwyd," Rev. J. S. Longdon glee, Starry frowns of Heaven," Glee Tarty; finale, God Save the Queen." B.W.T.A.—A meeting of the Aberdare Branch of the British Women's Temperance Association was held at Trinity Vestry on Monday afternoon, when there was a good attendance.—Mrs. Jayne opened the meeting with prayer; an address was afterwards given by Mrs. Udell, of Pontypwl. She emphasised the importance of practical Christianity. The world would look coldly on those Christians who did not think it their duty to talk to other people about their souls. There was also necessity for people professing Temperance to act up to their principles. People were often a 'ked as to whether there was harm in taking a glass of beer. She (the speakor) maintained that it was the duty of Christians to wash their hands clear of the drink. There were people to-day under the curse of drink who traced tneir downfall to the first glass. They took this one glass because they saw professing Christiana do so. They said It Christian people can take a glass of beer so can I." And this had done more harm to the Tem- perance cause than anything. It was use- less to profess principles of total abstinence and not act up to those principles afterwards. People should not hide their principles under a cloak. She appealed to the supporters of Temperance to be faith- ful to their principles and not be faint-hearted. They must not only lead beautiful godly lives, but try ana exert a, Christian influence over others. They required earnestness and practical common sense to carry on the work—Mrs. Reed proposed, and Mrs. Grattan seconded, a vote of thanks of thanks to Mrs. Udell for her interesting address, which was carried.—Mrs. Lloyd, Highland-place, said that their friends at Cwmaman intended forming a branch, and she (Mrs. Lloyd) hoped that as many of the Aberdare Temper- ance ladies as could would attend and help the Cwm- aman friends to start their branch. There was also a similar branch to be started at Aberaman,—Mrs. Wil- liams, Canon-street, gave a few encouraging worda.and the meeting concluded with the Benediction.-Miss George, Cardiff-road, was the accompanist. All pre- sent subsequently enjoyed "a fragrant cup of tea." WHAT THE REFORMATION DID FOR MEN. On Sunday night the third of a series of sermons on Protestant Principles as understood by Unitarians was given at Highland-place Unitarian Church, Aberdare, by the pastor, the Rev. Jenkin Thomas. The subject was "What the Reformation did for Men." In order to form an adequate judgment of what the Reformation did for men we must, said the reverend gentleman, understand what the Reforma- tion stands for, what causes brought it about, and why it should be necessary. The very word Reformation implies that an improvement, or a reconstruction, has happened to something men understood that religious and moral questions were in a somewhat unsatisfactory condition, and they endeavoured to throw more light on them. Reforma- tion may be described as a revolt against finality in religion. Mr. Thomas then went on to speak of the supreme rule of the Catholics and the monastic period. A graphic description was given of Catholic persecution, and reference made to the immorality of the monasteries. The convents became the hot-beds of vice; all the monasteries were wealthy, and the monks lived in great high revelry; the best wines wore stored in their cellars; shocking immoralities took place; monastic scandals were frequent occurrences; the vices of the clergy were the by- words of satirists and theologians, and ljepame the subject of poems and novels; every narish priest could buy a dispensation from his bishop to secure the safety of himself and his unacknowledged wife and children. The exactions of the Roman See were almost unbearable. To every big sinner it sold for a small sum a safe conduct to Heaven, a paper which secured him absolution from all sins. Then came the Reformation and the work of Martin Luther and other Reformers. The Lutheran church was too much engaged in controversy to nourish the self-forgetfulness necessary for successful missionary work. And we know that it is Calvinism that has presented to the world the true missionary spirit. It has been said that Catholicism is a religion of priests, Lutheranism of theologians, and Calvinism the religion of the believing congrega- tion. Lutheranism is more human, inasmuch as it crystalises round the idea of justification by faith. Here man had some part to play in the great scheme of salvation. Reference was also made to Wickliffe, Cranmer, Zwingli, and other stars of the Reformation. The Reformation in England is a case of arrested development. The influences were not allowed to be carried out to their logical conclusions. And this is true of all Reformation. It is only a shifting of position. It made the Bible supreme authority for the Church. It enunciates freedom of thought, free- dom for every individual to think out theological questions for himself; but in enunciating this, it also sets up barriers in tho form of creeds and formulas to be believed by every Christian. It gave birth to scientific researches; it gave new impulses to com- mercial activities and intellectual and philosophical studies. But it failed to make man, with his reasoning powers and moral consciousness, the final authority on religious matters: men are still clogged by the past, and are not allowed true liberty to ascend to the spiritual world for the eternal realities. This is the work of the future. CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOUR MEETINGS AT ABERDARE. In response to the invitation of the Aberdare and District Union of the Christian Endeavour Society, the Council of the South Wales and Monmouthshire Union of that society decided to hold their annual meetings at Aberdare on Thursday last. There were delegates present from Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, Blackwood, Llanelly, Aberavon, Dowlais, Merthyr, Ynysybwl, Port Talbot, Ebbw Vale, Hirwain, Ton Ystrad, and other places. The proceedinsrs commenced at 11a.m., when the Council met at the Royal Temperance Hotel. The Rev. Charles Ayliffe, of Newport, the chairman of the Council, presided. Various matters were discussed. Amongst others, it was decided to procure suitable literature, bearing upon the principles of the society, for distribution in districts where the society is not at present represented. The annual report as to the work of the society was also submitted, and considered very satisfactory. Attention was drawn to the annual convention of the society which was to be held at Bristol, when the Board of Management will be elected and other important business transacted. It was decided to nominate the Rev, Charles Ayliffe, Newport, Rev. J. R. Davies, Port Talbot, and Mr. E, J. Powell, Newport, as South Wales representa- tives on the Board of Management, and all the branches of the society in South Wales will be asked to support the candidature of these gentlemen. At the conclusion of the sitting, the members of the Council and friends sat down to dinner, which had been well catered by Host Davies. At 3 p.m., a general meeting was held at the English Congregational Church, when there was a large congregation. The Rev. J. Grawys Jones occupied the chair. After the singing of the hymns, "There's a Royal Banner given for Display" and "Let us Gather up the Sunbeams," and the offering up of prayer, the President gave a practical and encouraging address. Miss A. M. Thomas then sang Flee as a Bird very prettily. Miss Tydfil Davies, of Hirwain, followed with a paper on Our Juveniles," which elicited warm approval and com- mendation. The hymn, All the Way My Saviour Leads me," was sung, and Mr. Worman gave an able paper on the "C.E. Movement." Mr. W. J. Davies, Cwmbach, rendered The Holy City" in nice style, and a discussion on papers and "Free Parlia- ment" ensued, the speeches being limited to three minutes each. After the hymn, I Know not why God's Wondrous Grace," had been sung, Mr. Parr, Aberdare, moved, and Mr. W. Kees seconded, resolu- tions of sympathy with the persecuted Armenians and the sufferers of the Tylorstown disaster. The hymn, Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine," was sung, and the Benediction was pronounced. A tea and reunion subsequently took place at the Tanernacle Schoolroom, when a large number sat down at the tables, which were well provisioned and tastily laid out. The room had been charmingly decorated with evergreens and flowers given by Mr. W. Phillips, the local presi- dent, Miss Farr, Miss Rose Morris, and Miss Thomas, Compton House. On the walls were the words Mi/pan and Welcome in white letters, worked on a red ground. Whilst on the subject of decoration we may also state that the mottoes For Christ and the Church and Success to Young People's Society of Christian Endeavour adorned the walls of the church. The ladies who presided at the tea-tables were: Mrs. D. M. Richards, Mrs. Reeves, Miss Rose Morris, Miss Davies, Miss Thomas, Miss Bessie Richards, from Tabernacle Miss Lloyd and Miss Griffiths, from Trinity Mrs. Grawys Jones and Miss M. A. Edwards, from Ebenezer; Miss Williams and Miss Jones from Carmel and Miss Davies and Miss Bevan, from Hirwain. Another general meeting was held at 6.45 p.m., when Mr. W. Phillips presided and gave an interest- ing opening address. The speaker referred to the progress of the C.E. movement, and said that there 3,329 branch societies at the present time. The pro- gress had oeen exceedingly rapid, and the movement had proved a great blessing to many. He urged upon those churches at Aberdare and elsewhere, that had not yet taken up the movement, to do so at once, and thereby help to further the noble principles of the society He also extended a hearty welcome to all the visitors to Aberdare. Mr. Powell, the secretary of the South Wales Union, in responding to the words of welcome, thanked Mr. Phillips for his kindly feeling towards them. They had all enjoyed their visit to Aberdare, and the preparations that were made far exceeded their expectations The hymn, While Jesus Whispers to you," was sung and prayer offered up, after which Mr. Abel Jones rendered a very attractive solo from The Elijah." Mrs. Reeves also sang The Chorister very sweetly. This was followed by an admirable 1 address on For Christ and the Church," the motto I of the C.E.S., by the Rev. Charles Ayliffe. The hymn, Jesus, Keep me near the Cross," was sung, and the Rev. D. Wynne Evans, Llanelly, gave a Welsh address on Y Nerth i'r Ymdrech Christion- ogol (The Power for the C.E.), which was atten- tively listened to. Mr. William Gwynne rendered Merch y Cadben in appreciative style, and the meeting concluded by the singing of the hymn, There shall be Showers of Blessings," and prayer. At 8.20 p.m., a consecration meeting was held, con- ducted by Mr. W. Anthony Hughes, Cardiff, member of the Council of Great Britain and Ireland. The hymn, Take my life and let it be," "as sung and the roll-call of societies was (rone through. The Rev. M. Hughes read a letter that had been received from the founder of the society, and it occasioned much in- terest. Mr. W. Phillips, proposed a resolution con- gratulating the society on the success that had atten- ded its work and appealing to all churches that were not at present represented to form branches of the society. The Rev. D. M. Davies, Cwmbach, seconded the resolution, which was carried unanimously. The meeting terminated with Praise and Mizpah Benediction and the singing of the hymn, God be with you till we meet again," and this brought a suc- cessful day's proceedings to a close. We may mention that Miss Farr ably carried out the duties of accompanist. Assistance in the carrying out of the day's programmo waa also given by Mr, James Jones, Ynysllwyd-streot; Mr. T. Jones, Mr.. Taylor, Bute-street Mr. George Thomas, Seymour- street and Mr. Beynon Jones (secretary).

MERTHYR COUNCIL. Wednesday. Present: Messrs. T. H. Bailey, J.P. (chairman), D. W. Jones (vice-chairman), Dan Thomas, Thomas Jenkins, J.P., D. Davies, John Roberts, John Harpur, V. A. Wills, W. Lewis, Joseph Owen, John Lewis (Penydarren), Mr. G. C. James (clerk), Mr. T. F. Harvey (surveyor), und Dr. Dyke (medical officer). THE IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MAINS.—Only one tender waa received for pipe laying in connection with improving the Council's water mams, namely, that of Mr. Thomas Preece, Cefn, at £ 300 Is. 8d.—It was accepted. PROPOSED ELECTRic Lio HTII;G. -In accordance with notice, the Chairman moved that the consent of the Council for a provisional order be given to Mesara. J. C. Howell and Co., Limited, electricians, Llanelly, for laying down electric light in the town of Merthyr, in accordance with the terms of the agreement dated 18th February.—Mr. John Harpur seconded.—Mr. D. Davies: What are the terms arranged with the Urban District Council and Messrs. Howell ?—The Clerk: The agreement is upon the table.—Mr. Dan Thomas said that at the end of five years the Council could purchase the plant for £ 1,500 in addition to the absolute outlay. No provision had been made for lighting and furnishing the new public offices.—The Chairman said the provisional order would not pre- vent people from introducing electric light into private houses, but they had no right to break up the roads.—Mr. W. Lewis It means that we are going to give them power to light the most important parts of the town ? (A Voice Yes). Then what about the gas company ? Are they going to supply us at the same rate ? If not the ratepayers will have to suffer. —Mr. Dan Thomas We do not bind ourselves to the electric lighting company.-The motion was then carried. SOHOOL BOARD RATES.—At a previous meeting the clerk read a letter from the District Council of West Ham, asking the Merthyr Council tosupport a petition to Parliament in favour of the Capitation Grants being increased, and that Parliament should limit the amount to be raised by means of local taxation, and should provide out of Imperial funds such other amount as may from time to time be necessary to meet the deficiency which might exist in the local school funds throughout the country. He iiiid that since he gave notice of motion, he saw that the Mountain Ash Council had adopted a similar petition, which had been presented to the House of Commons by their Senior Member, Mr. D. A. Thomas. As education was a national question, and compulsory by law, he thought the great deficit should come out of the Imperial exchequer, and not out of the looal rates.—Mr. Dan Thomas seconded.—Mr. D. Davies said he did not know whether the people of West Ham were a progressive people, but he thought they should try and impress upon the present Government the necessity of devoting ground rents and royaltias to the relief of local taxes.—Mr. Harpur interrupted with a remark, whereupon Mr. Davies said I think this is a proper question, Mr. Harpur.—Mr. D. W. Jones proposed as an amendment, that the petition lie upon the table. They had not had time to study the petition, and they did not know whether there was anything underlying it that they could not agree with.—Mr. John Lewis seconded the amend- ment. He would not like to vote upon any question he did not understand, and other mem- bers should tollow that principle.—Mr. W. Lewis thought the matter should be deferred for a fort- night. -The Chairman said he was prepared to vote that day, and Mr. Wills, in s iplying, said be was astonished to hear the remarks made by some gentle- men that they did not understand the question.—Mr. J. Roberts was not ashamed to say that lie did not understand the question, and it was wrong to push it on without proper consideration.—For the amend- ment four votes were recorded, and for the motion six votes, and the motion was declared carried.—Mr. J. Roberts It is a very unfair thing. SEWER AT COURTLAND-TERRACE.— In regard to this matter, the Chairman said it appeared the sewer was in a very bad condition, and the Inspector of Nuisances had reported it aa dangerous.—The Clerk reported that the Council was bound by law to repair the drain. It would be a big undertaking.-In reply to queries, the Clerk said the Council could be sued for damages if anything serious occurred, and cited a case in which a person at Slough secured damages under similar circumstances to the extent of £ 350.— A small committee was appointed to visit the spot and report thereon. RAILWAY ACCOMMODATION AT PANT.—Mr. D. W. Jones moved that the Council support the people at Dowlais who were agitating to obtain a railway plat. form at Pant, and that the Council memorialise the London and North Western Railway Company in favour of the improvement. The present station at Dowlais was quite unsuitable for the public, and ought never to have been erected.—Mr. D. Davies seconded, and hoped that before long the Rhymney Railway Company would be prevailed upon to erect a station at Troedyrhiw.—Mr. Joseph Owen Hear, hear.—The motion was carried unanimously. DUPLICATE PLANS.—Mr. D. W. Jones then moved that in future duplicate plans be sent to the Board in all cases that one be returned to the builder as passed by the Council and signed by the clerk, and the other be retained by the Council. At present the manner in which plans submitted to the Council were dealt with was most unsatisfactory.—Mr. J. Owen seconded. -The Clerk said the Local Government Board would have to be communicated with, and if that body were of opinion that such-a provision could be inserted in the bye-laws, he was sure they would sanction it.— Mr. J. Owen Then we cannot pass it.—The Clerk You can pass a resolution, and direct me to communi- cate with the Hoard.-The Clerk read bye-law 93, which dealt with the matter.—Mr. D. W. Jones I am sure very little of that bye-law is carried out.—Mr. T. Jenkins: I am afraid none of it has been carried out.—The resolution was carried unanimously. THE HEALTH QUESTION.-At a meeting of the Health Committee, held on the 12th January, Mr. D. W. Jones in the chair, it was recommended that a further register of slaughter-houses be kept in accord- ance with the Council's bye-laws and the Public Health Acts, and that notices be sent to all occupiers of slaughter-houses, requiring them to register same. —The medical officer of health was directed to report as to the advisability of purchasing a portable hospital, and the probable cost thereof.—The Medical Offioer presented the following report:—Number of births at the annual rate of 38 per 1,000, and of deaths 24 per 1,000 during the 32 days ended on the 1st Feb. The number of notifications received during that period was 39. There were twenty-one cases of typhoid fever, six of scarlet fever, one of diphtheria, eight of erysipelas and three of small-pox. One case of small-pox removed to the Pant Hospital in December, three in January, and one was to be removed this morning, making five oases. Three were from the union workhouse, tramps from town to town one visiting the hospital, and the last case (received as a lodger) a man who came to a Mrs. Doyle's house on Monday fortnight from Aberavon. He was not ill, but doubtless had carried the infection in his clothing. The cases are progressing favourably. I have received a note from the vaccination officer, Mr. D. T. Morgan, stating that 2,086 infants had been vaccin- ated during the year. As the births were 2,532 it would appear that 446 had either died, or were living without the protective influence of the cow-pock. Noting the facts ab(}\e stated it is very desirable that the public should be warned of the facts. Dr. Dyke also said lie had inspected the group of houses at Ffoes-y-fran whence three cases of typhoid fever were removed, and where onefemaledied ofthedisease. He analysed the water issuing from a culvert under a mine tip, and found it to be unfit for domestic u?e. He recommended that several improvements be made to the premises.—The Council recommended that the attention of the Board of Guardians be called to the tact that infants were not vaccinated, and it was agreed that notices be served upon the owners of the houses calling upon them to carry out the improve- ments suggested by the medical officer of health. In view of the great danger to the public which arose in the case of Andrew Mahoney, 2, Lower Erin-row, suffering from small-pox, the committee recommended that instructions be given the medical officer of health to notify to the local medical practitioners that all reasonable expenses incurre3 in sending telegraphic messages immediately to the medical officer of health reporting urgent cases of infectious diseases would DO refunded by the Council. The atten- tion of the Council was directed to the filthy condition of the old tramroad at Penydarren, and it was recommended that the attention of the Dowlais Company (the owners) be drawn to the matter.-A discussion followed in regard to the portable hospital, Mr. D. W. Jones remarking that the medical gentle- men of the town were of opinion that such a hospital would prevent; the spread of disease.—Mr. John Lewis said there would be no harm in getting an estimate of the cost of a portable building, and the report was adopted with the exception of the para- graph bearing upon the matter. BRIDGES AND ROADS COMMITTEE.—A meeting of the Bridges and Roads Committee was held on the 18th February, Mr. T. Jenkins, J.P., in the chair. The clerk as directed reported that in his opinion the Council had no claim against the mineral owners for any damage caused by the alleged subsidence, and further that the Council had no power to divert the sewer without the consent of the landowners, as the present grants of easements did not provide for any diversion. The surveyor submitted plans and estimates of the proposed diversion, and the com- mittee recommended that the work be carried out from Tanglings Brook to the north end of the proposed diversion. The clerk was asked to further report as to the liability of the owners of the minerals in respect of the alleged subsidence, and also com- municate with the ground landlords, and obtain their consent to the diversion.-The report was adopted. CABBIES COMPLAIN.-At a meeting of the Cabs Committee the letter from the various cab proprietors was read complaining of the way in which brakes were running, and it was resolved that the clerk write a letter to each licensed driver drawing his attention to the conditions upon which the licence was granted, and give a warning that if the same were not com- plied with the licence would bo withdrawn. LIMESTONE.—A meeting of the Limestone Com- mittee was held on the 5th February, when Mr. Jebb was asked to send in a fresh schedule of prices for the supply of limestone. The sub-committee appointed to visit the site of the proposed diversion of the main sewer diversion at Aberfan met on the 11th February, and it was agreed that the matter be referred to the Bridges and Roads Committee. — The report was adopted. DOWLAIS IBOX COMPANY.—A letter was read from the Dowlais Iron Company offering to supply the Council with cinders free of charge for the purpose of making the road at Dowlais. — Mr. Dan Thomas moved, and Mr. John Lewis seconded, that the thanks of the Council be tendered the Dowlais Company for their generous offer. THE TAFF AND RHYMNEY RAILWAY BILLS.—On the Ereposition of Mr. David Davies, seconded by Mr. J. iewis, it was agreed that the seal of the Council be affixed to the petition against the Taff and Rhymney Railway Bills. ARREARS.—Upon the reading of the Finance Com mittee's report, the Chairman pointed out that the auditor had referred to the rates in arrear, and it had been agreed to appoint a special collector for one month at 25s. per week. The auditor had paid a high compliment to Mr. Rowland Harris, the book- keeper, who, he said, was a first-class accountant, and kept the books in a very satisfactory manner. He was of opinion that all the arrears should be placed in the book-keeper's hands to deal with, and said that if this step had been taken long ago the rates would not have been in arrear.—It was agreed that the matter be left in the hands of Mr. Harris. SURVEYOR'S REPORT.—Mr. T. F. Harvey presented his report, which contained the following :—I beg to lay beforu you a letter received from Mrs. John, the lessee of cottages projecting into the roadway near Blackbrook, which I have previously reported upon. With respect to the application that Cromwell-street should be declared a public highway, I am of opinion that it should be dealt with at the same time as Stuart-street. The alterative plan for the proposed j service reservoir at Treharris has been made, but I am unable to wubmit plans and estimates for the other tanks referred to in my last report owinar to pressure of other work intervening. Several buildings plans were received.—The report was adopted.

TREHARRIS. </(- Several reports unavoidably crowded out. PERSONAL.—We are sorry to hear that Mr. Ryan, the leader of the Town Band, will shortly leave us for Cardiff, at which town he intends in future to reside. TUB PUBLIC HALL was utilised every night last week, a cheering fact for the shareholders. We are expecting the steps outside the hall to be used every moment owing to the approaching elections. OUR Q.C."—It is freely stated that Mr. Lewis Morris, Q.C. has been asked and has consented to be nominated as a guardian. The Q.C." has rendered 8ignal services as chairman cf public meet- ings and otherwise. GRESHAM-PLACE is a growing suburb of our town. We observe more excavations in progress preparatory for further building. We notice that asnes and other matter is being upset close to the dwellings in this locality, a fact we hardly think the authorities are aware of. SOCIALISM.—Mr. Fred. Broeklehurat, B.A., will deliver a lecture in the Public Hall on Socialism and the Future" on Wednesday, the 26th Dr..7. Rhys Jones, Cardiff, will take the chair at 7.45, and will speak in English and Welsh. Admission three- pence. THEATRICALS.—On Friday evening last the habitues of the Public Hall were treated to a novelty in the shape of an amateur theatrical performance. "Jessamy's Courtship," and the farcical comedy, Bamboozling," were billed, while the caste con- tained such well-known amateurs as Captain and Mrs. Lindsay, Misses Nichol and Booker, and Messrs. Marriat and Watson. The audience was large and thoroughly aporeciative. The proceeds were in aid of Treharris Church and Llanbradach National Schools. SOCIAL EVENING. -On Thursday evening last, at the Board School, a social evening was spent in connec- tion with the Cookery Instruction Class conducted by Miss Griffiths, of Penarth. A committee, consisting of the following ladies, made excellent arrangements for the event :—Mrs. Dr. Leigh, Mrs. Randall, Miss Williams (Primrose Villa), Miss Payne, Miss Phillips (Shingrig), Miss Gullick (Nelson), and Miss Ray (Bargoed House). At seven o'clock a large number of the invited guests and students of the class had assembled. A very enjoyable programme was gone through, consisting of solos, dances, and games. Mr. W. T. Lewis delighted the company by rendering Our Hands have met, but not our Hearts ana The Heart Bowed Down." Mr. Goldsworthy's fine rendering of The Irish Jubilee" convulsed the house. Miss Brown also sang The Children's Home. Miss Mary Davies (The Schools) gave a recitation, The Venetian Revenge," in a very praiseworthy manner. The tables, superintended by Mrs. Leigh, Mrs. Gibbon, and others, presented a very fine display of the art of cookery, which was done ample justice to. Miss Howard, of Penarth, who acted as accompanist, deserves a word of praise for the able manner in which she performed her task. Miss Griffiths and the committee are to be congratu- lated on the success of the evening's entertainment, in which they were ably assisted by Mr. J. Jones, who acted as M.C. Among the visitors were several mem- bers of the Technical Committee, Mrs. Ray, Mrs. Thomas, Miss Symons (headmistress of the Girls' School), Miss Bollen, (head certificated class teacher Girls' School) Miss Morgans, and Drs. Jones and Law.

CAERPHILLY. For all kinds and best of printing and stationery go to OWEN JONES, Printer, Caerphilly. [3641. CDFCSERVATIVE SMOKER.—On Wednesday evening last week the local Tories, assisted by Messrs. Jeffries and Fox, gave a smoking concert at the Boar's Head Hotel. AMBULANCE CLASS.—Mrs. Captain Lindsay had a very pleasing task to perform at the Windsor Refreshment-rooms on Tuesday last, when she distri- buted the certificates to the successful candidates in connection with the ambulance class. LANTERN LECTURE.Under the auspices of the Twyn Chapel Band of Hope, Mr. Paere, of the Band of Hope Union, Canliff, last Wednesday, at the Market Hall, gave a most interesting lecture (suitably illustrated) on Temperance. The subject was the ever vernal "Buy Yoni Own Cherries." Councillor W. Thomas presided over the large audience. OBITUARY.—It was with grevt regret that Caer- philly heard the news of the death of the Rev. J. G. Hopkins, late pastor of Mount Carmel English Methodist Chapel, which took place at Pontardulais on Saturday last, at the early age of 28. On Sunday evening Dr. Edwards, principal of the Baptist College, Cardiff, preached a memorial service at Mount Carmel. The funeral took place yesterday. ENTERTAINMENT.—Like a good manager, Mr. J. H. Phillips, the secretary of the Caerphilly Literary Society, arranged a pleasing break in the series of lectures and debates by setting apart last Thursday for a lighter bill of fare. A splendid caterer was found in Mr. T. Rees, of Cardiff, whose menu card (" An Evening with Dickens") contained such choice bits as Bob Sawyer's Supper Party and Bardell versus Pickwick." The enjoyment of the evening was heightened by a song each from Miss Sallie Howell and Mr. C. S. Goodfellow. SNAP-SHOTS FROM THE LEANING TOWER ADVICE TO CAN-CAN CATERERS.—To avoid disap- pointment, &c., such as was experienced at—no matter where, nor when—the following footnote should be printed on each invation card :—" N.B.— Sweets and champagne, extra." ONLY WHAT MIGHT BE EXPECTED.—Some of the elate-beg pardon-elite can-canners in going home, thought they would enjoy themselves by making night hideous. Their dissip-thousand pardons—dis- cordant voices disturbed the slumber of ^many a weary citizen. BWRDI) IFSCOL EGLWYSILAN ACHYMRAEG.—Gofynir ini gan amryw ohebwyr barthed y ddysgeidiaeth Gymreig a gyfranir i'r plant yn ysgolion v Bwrdd. Deallant fod y Gymraeg i'w haddysgu i'r oil o'r ysgolheigion yn ddiwahan, o'r ieuangaf hyd yr hynaf; eithr petrusant na wneir cyfiawnder a'r plant, yn gymaint (fel y'u sicrheir) nad ydyw yr oil o'r athrawon a t athrawesau vn hyddysg yn yr hen iaith. Ha wyr, aelodau y Bwrdd, ai gwir hyn oil 1 THE MISSING RELIEVING OFFICER. The vessel, which, it .was stated, had on board James Williams, the missing relieving officer, arrived at the Cape a few days ago. Detectives there examined the passengers on landing, but failed to find their man." The vessel put off" several pas- sengers at Port Elisabeth, and at present inquiries are being prosecuted at that place. The instructions and description of the officer were, of course, very vague, only a cablegram being sent a few days prior to the arrival of the ship.

Mr. W. C. Preston has been endeavouring to discover the most popular hymns in the church worship of the day, and in the February number of the Sunday Magazine gives the result of his investigations. In a position of exact equality stood, Jesus, Lover of my Soul," Lead, Kindly Light," and "Rock of Ages," Then followed in the order in which they are here given 0 God, our Help in Ages Past," Art Thou Weary ? Forward be our Watchword," Savour, Blessed Saviour," I Heard the Voice of Jesus say," Sun of my Soul," Jerusalem the Golden," Just as I am," It Came upon the mid- night Clear," "I lay my Sins on Jesus," "Abide with me fast falls the Eventide," 0 Jesus, King most Wonderful," "At even, are the Sun was set," When I Survey the Wondrous Cross," All Hail the Power of Jesu's name The God of Abraham Praise," In the Cross of Christ I Glory."

TRUSSES (RUPTURE).— The Link Shell Truss is the greatest invention of modern times. Dr. Phelin, the eminent physician, writing to the Lancet, says- "It is a truss which I always advise patients to use, It will in very many cases be found an effectual cure." Lancet, says on August 4th, 1894—"It is an efficient truss for a cure." British Mcdical Journal, on June 30th, 1894—" It is the most comfortable and secure truss." Mcdical Times and Hospital Gazette, says- It is a. sure protection against further prolapse and cures." Edinburgh Medical Journal says—" It suits exceedingly well for a radical cure. English Sports says—"It is the only truss that can be worn by athletes competing in races, when suffering from rupture. (Lotd Kinnaird and Dr. Turner contributed.) Worn bv the late Sir Andrew Clarke, M.D. Awarded 19 Gold Medals. Worn by 698 Medical Men. Particulars, one stamp, from the Link Shell Truss Co. 171 Wardour Street, Loudon, W.

THESE WILL CURE YOU. Only those who have tried the effect. HUGHES'S BLOOD PILLS Can believe what wonderful cures they accomplish. All who are sick and ill, sluggish, heavy feeling, tired in mind and body, with a bad complexion, pnd a DeTtr absent disagreeable taste in the mouth, ought to kuow that the Remedy called HUGHES'S BLOOD PILLS Will remove all these bad symptoms, and then aid ia building up a strong and robust constitution. IN EVERY CABE I OF THING ELSR j FOR BOTH SEXES HUGHES'S BLOOD PILLS Purify the Blood, Clear the Skin, Strengthen the Nerves, Remove Dyspepsia and Indigestion, Reviv* the Liver, Cure Headache, Skin Rash, Rheumatim, Constipation. IF THEY CURE WHEN EVERYTHING ELSE FAILS. Call at any Chemist -or dealer in Patent MediciM, and get a Box with the shape of a heart on. 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IT IS NOTED in relieving all pain aud oienesi when applied to Wounds, Sores, Ulcers, Erysipelas, Gout, Piles, Sore Eyes, or any inflammatory parts of the body, cooling and allaying all irritation, softening and reducing hard Swellings, relieving Rheumatic Paiu, and making pliable Stiff Joints. IT IS HARMLESS AND EASY OF APPLICATION. TRY IT. CURE IS CERTAIN. Ask for a Box from your Chemist or Dealer in Patent Medicine. Sold at Is. l^d., 2s. 9d., 4s. 6d.; by post free, Is. 3d., 28. lid., 4s. 9d., from JACOB HUGHES, MANUFACTURING CHEMIST, PENARTH. TRADES pILLS. IpADE'S PILLS All who suffer from Gout JL or Rheumatism should EADE'S T31LLS im mediately have reoourm X to EADE'S PILLS, Hun- ffADES "t>lLLS dreds of Testimonials have JL been received from all ITiADE'b TRILLS sorts and conditions of j JL men testifying to the TRADE'S TRILLS wonderful power those JL Pills have in gi ving relief in the very worst cases. These Pills are purely vege- table and perfectly safe in their action. 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EADE S GOUT AND RHEUMATIC PILLS. Are sold by all Chemists in Bottles, 18. 1M. and 2s. 9d., or sent free for Postal Order by the Pro- prietor, GEORGE EADE, 72, Goswell-road, E.C. Ask for and be sure you obtain, EADE'S GOUT \ND RHEUMATIC PILLS. JgADE'S piLLS. E _n THOMSONS GLOVE FITTING CORSET PERFECTION Sold by all Drapers. One Million Pairs Annually. #BLACKS?'HEXTRA. Approved by the whole TWELVE FIRST MEDALS. supply you, write direot to 112, FORE-STRKtT, LONDOW E.C., giving size, and enclosing P.O.O., and the Corset will at once be seat you. W. S. THOMSON & COMPANY, LIMITED. MANUFACTURERS. Made in Lengths, 13, 14, and 15 inches. A Large Stock of these Good Value Corsets always on hand at Messrs. J. E. DAVIF.S & Co., Temple of Fashion, High-streat, Merthyr. [147-302 OUR IhALTH IN WINTER.—Dr. Andrew Wilson, writing in Lloyd's Ncicispaper on diet, says; The teaching of nature should never be neglected, and in the matter of winter food let iisiee we are not wrong and take sufficient fat, for the changes that result in the wear and tear of our bodies are lessened in inten- sity by the fat of food, and the need for flesh is always less when fat forms a due proportion of our diets. The Doctor proceeds to enumerate natural products that are admirable, among them "Cocoa" with its contained Cocoa Butter. Relatively to this it may b« said that Epp's PREPARED COCOA retains all the con ttituents of the natural Cocoa, including the oil butter, intact. Rum- RK.—Uupara!!c!ed Success in the treatment Rupture by S. J. Sherman, Hernia Specialist, 64 hancery Lane, London. Write for his new book of full information, 7 £ d. post free. Ml printinvt for football clube, such as cards of tixdtre les. &c can be done best and cheapest, at the Tn.ift rinting \Vorks,Mcrtbvr.

FOOTBALL NOTES AND NEWS. By SPECTATOR. 1 The Merth) r 2nds played their second game with ] Merthyr Vale, on Saturday last, at Penydarren Park. The previous encounter at Merthyr Vale ended iu a draw, and the result of Saturday's match was awaited with keen interest. In the end, however, Merthyr Vale came off victorious with 1 goal and 1 try to nil. It was anticipated that the Valians would give the home team a good game, as they have very much improved this season. There was a very fair gate, and the ground being in capital condition the spec- tators were able to nee some good play. The weather -good old weather !—was fine. For Merthyr, Morgan Williams, as back, played very well considering he was in his wrong position, but managed to make one glaring mistake, whicn caused his side to have a try registered against them. The three-quarters did not play up to their usual form, and the half-backs were fairly beaten, Phillipe and Jones not combining together at all. The home forwards played a good game. The Valians heeled out very smartly, but the homesters were far superior in the open. The tackling of the Valians calls for special notice, and ;t was very rarely that the Seconds were allowed to travel far before being brought to ground. Tom Davies, with his splendid playing powers, failed to run any distance, though he made several good passes. The referee acted in a very impartial manner, and gave general Matisfaction to both teams. But with regard to the praises of referees, let me say that they always like to blow their own whistle A correspondent wants to know what is the mean- ing of miscellaneous play, a phrase so often used in the football columns of a Cardiff contemporary. I suppose it is a kind of general summing up for "scrumming, kicking, running, and passing," though I have not seen the term used before. At the pantomime laat week, Dick Whittington sang her favourite football song, the chorus of which begins, Gould is the king of football." The song begins, Gould is the king of football." The song was well received, and the singer was encored each night. PENARTH A v. MKKTHYR.—Played on the Penarth Club ground on Saturday. Penarth kicked off. Scrums followed the kick to touch by the visitors. Thornley saved a dangerous rush by the Merthyr men by a. judicious kick to touch. Johnstone tackled one of the visitors in splendid style after some fast play. Penarth now played well and made a hot attack on the visitors' line. A free kick for the visitors gave temporary relief, but the homesters were soon press- ing again. Soon after Kirby put in a fine kick to touch. A free kick for Penarth almost resulted in Knight kicking a goal. Merthyr made several attempts to pass the ball, but failed almost every time. Soon afterwards the Valley men were con- spicuous for a tine dribble almost to the Penarth line, where they pressed for a little time. The Penarth men now relieved their lines by a good dribble, when soon after a certain try was lost by Stamp missing a pass from Knight. Subsequently the homesters had hard lines in not Bcoring. They still kept up a hot attack on the visitors' line, and several times missed scoring through faulty passing. Merthyr now went right down the field and scored a try. No goal resulted. This terminated the initial half. Half-time score Merthyr, 1 try Penarth, nil. Merthyr started the second half, and Penarth returned to touch half- way. A free kick was now given the homesters for off-side tactics by Merthyr. Knight had another shot at goal. which failed, a minor resulting. On the kick- out Penarth had best of matters. Penarth worked down to the Merrhyr 25. where Chivers, taking off a dribble, narrowly missed scoring. Smith now made a run down the field and tranferred to Knight, who was grassed. Soon after Smith made a mark, but the kick was returned by the visiting back. Knight now saved a dangerous rush by the visitors, but soon after the latter scored a try, which was converted. Merthyr showed their superior weight in the forward rank and repeatedly got the ball ont. Kirby put in some fine work, taking play to the centre. Penarth made some fine attempts at passing. Time was then called, Merthyr coming off victorious by 1 goal, 1 try to nil. MERTHYR ALEXANDRAS v. TREDEGAR.—With refer* ence to this match, reported in our issue for the 7th inst., Messrs. Ben Waters, captain, and Gus Thomas, secretary of the Tredegar Club, write to the effect that the final score wa* Alexandras, 2 tries Tre- degar, 2 tries. T. BARNES' TKAM v. D. EVERSON'A TEAM. Tlie-e teams tried conclusion* on the White Stars' Ground oa Thursday. The result was a win for Everson's Team by two tries to nil, Jim Thomas (captain) and J. Jordan being the scorers. TBBORKY v. DOWLAIS.—Played at Treorky on Saturday. Dowlais kicked off, and Ramsey returned to half-way, where the play settled down for several minutes. Picton Evans made several short runs, which gained Dowlais a lot of ground, and several scrums were formed in the Treorky 25. From a pass out Evans, the Dowlais half, received, but slipped. J. Evans caught the ball, and put in a good kick, which carried play into the Dowlais 25. The Dowlais forwards came down with a splendid dribble, but Trottman saved beautifully. The Dowlats forwards placed the Treorky goal-line in danger many time. Trottrnttusavingwell. J ohn Thomas, the '1 reorky centre, took the ball to the Dowlais 25, but it was soon taken back. The Dowlais forwards beat the Treorky forwards repeatedly. Half-time score Dowlais, nil; Treorky, nil. Ramsey kicked off, the kick being returned with interest. Dowlais again foiced the game and kept Treorky penned in their 25. Fleet and Picton were playing well. A number of serums were now formed in the Treorky half, and at last the Treorky three-quarters had the ball amongst theru. Lewis was last to receive, but he was overtaken and collared by Fleet. Treorky now worked up and treated the Dowlais men to a taste of their quality. They wheeled, dribbled, and tackled well, Ramsey and Evans being prominent. The Dowlais men were penned in their 25, and Treorky had the hardest of lines in not scoring, D. D. Davies slipping when 011 the line. The Troorkyites were not to be denied they swept over the line, but the Dowlais full back fell on the ball. The Treorky forwards now played a champion game, and looked like scorers, but time was called. Final score: Treorky, 1 minor; Dowlais, nil. DOWLAIS HARLEQUINS V. MERTHYR VALE2NDS.~ Played at Merthyr Vale on Saturday, and ended in a draw, neither side scoring. The Merthyr Vale team was by far the heavier. TROEDYRHIW V. BRYXMA wR.-Played on the former club's ground on Saturday. The teams were respec- tively captained by Da' id Morton and W. J. Morgan, the referee being Mr. Baker, Merthyr. Fijial score Troedyrhiw, three minors Brynmawr, two minors. LLWYNYVIA V. TREHARRIS THURSDAYS.—Played on the ground of the latter on Thursday last. The game resulted in a win for the visitors, the score being Llwynypia, two goals one try; Treharris, two dis- puted tries three minors. ABERAMAN v. MOUNTAIN ASH.—Played at Mountain Ash on Saturday. Jimmy Michael, the champion cyclist, was the centre of attraction on the field. Mountain Ash kicked off, and the kick being charged dowt). play settled in the home 25. From a scrum the ball was kicked down by Phillips, and Hoskins follow- ing up, scored the first try. Play continued in Aber- aman territory, the home pack pressing most of the time, but the defence of the visitors was exceedingly good. From an intercepted pass, the visitors carried play to the home 25, where scrummage followed scrummage for some time. At this juncture Phillips was unfortunately injured. A smart pass out by E. W. Tanner, who kicked well on, and the ball being smartly followed up by Hoskins, he passed to Deere, who scored behind the posts. No goal resulted. From a rush play was carried to the home line, which was for some time in danger. Half-time score Moun- tain Ash, two tries Aberaman, nil. On resuming, Aberaman kicked off, and Millar returning well, play was carried to the visitors' line, a minor resulting. The home team continued to have the best of the game. Aberaman carrying a scrum, the ball was rushed down the field, and the home team conceded a minor. Mountain Ash were pressing when time was called. Final score Mountain Ash, two tries one minor Aberaman, one minor.

ASSOCIATION. The ways of the committee of the Association county match are what "no fellah can understand," as Lord Dundreary woulcj^say. In selecting a team to represent Glamorganshire, they have entirely ) ignored the Aberdare Club, which is second to none in the county. They have selected a member of the Cardiff Teachers' Club; also one of the Penarth Club and the Nelson Club, &c. We say nothing about the Nelson player-he is a good 'un but if Sweet 'Berdar cannot produce as good "socy" players as Penarth and Cardiff Teachers, well there The Aberdare Rangers were in good form on Satur- day, when they beat Trelewis by a goal to nil. Francis scored.the lucky shot. Francis played a very nice game throughout. I. Jones also did good service for the homesters, and Bowles showed up well. The Aberdare Town F.C. bad a match with St. Michael's College. The contest occasioned consider- able interest. The game was fairly interesting. Of the two teams the town played the most scientific game. The col- legians had very good material, but lacked combina- tion. The first two goals were scored in a very tricky manner. The game was not,many minutes old before D. Rees made a pretty run and banged the leather through. He repeated the performance a few moments later. The Rev.J. S. Longdon (the ex-Swansea Rugbyite), and the Rev. M. II. Jones (an old Aberystwythian) made some neat runs at times, but they were not sufficiently backed up by their confreres to prove effectual. The collegians have plenty of material for making a smart team. If they played regularly there is no doubt but that they wou-d prove a very formidable lot. ABERDARE Y. ST. MICHAEL'S COLLEGE.—A good deal of interest was manifested in this fixture, the proceeds being for the benefit of B. Morris, the Aber- dare goal-keeper, who sustained injuries last Christ- mas in the match against the District XI. There was a good attendance of spectators, and ideal foot- ball weather prevailed. As soon as the ball was set rolling the College goal-keeper had to relieve froni the Aberdare forwards, A. Jones returning with the ball and sending it over the line. This was quickly suc- ceeded by a neat bit of work by D. Rees, who raced up and scored number one. A few moments later D. R. again got the bal', dribbled up, and bestf the College custodian a second time. This reverse seemed to wake up the oollegians who now showed improved form. Rev. J. S. Longdon made a very creditable run, a contribution by him to C. R. Evans nearly bringing the downfall of the Aberdare uprights. Some nice combination was shown by the Aberdare forwards, there being a series of headers about the home uprights, but Gurney showed there was no thoroughfare. At half- time the ecore stood: Aberdare, two goals: St. Michael's College, nil. On the resumption of play, E. Thomas made a good attack on the College uprights; the leather got into the Rev. M. H. Jones' clutches, who kicked the ball well up the field, and Rowlands made an onslaught on the Aberdare goal, but Morris was all there. Good combination amongst the College forwards ended in the Rev. J. S. Longdon drawing first blood for the College. Shortly after the Aberdare forwards raced down the field, and D. Rees sent in a beauty which gave the College custodian no chance. The College again bombarded the Aberdare goal, and Morris fisted out a warm shot from C. R. Evans. A few moments before the whistle blew, A. Jones, the Aberdare captain, after dodging Gurney and Lamb, sent in a twister" the ball hit the bar and rebounded in. Final score: Aberdare, four goals; St. Michael's College, one goal. The following composed the teams; Aterdare Goal, B. Morris; full-backs, J. E. Newton and Gomer Watkins; half-backs, Sydney, D. J. Jones, and H. Jones forwards, right wing, E. Thomas and W. E. Jones; left wing, D. Rees and A. Jones (capt.) centre, F. Deacon. St. Michael's College: Goal, Rev. M. H. Jones; full-backs, Gurney and James; half-backs, Lamb, J. A. Williams, and Greening; forwards, right wing, B. M. Rowlands and H. J. Stewart; left wing, C. R. Evans and A. N. Other; centre, J. S. Longdon. ABERDARE RANGERS r TRELEWIS.—Played at the Park, Aberdare, on Saturday, in fine football weather, and before a fair attendance of spectators. The Rangers had several absentees, and substitutes had to be found. In the first half some good oombination was exhibited by the homesters, and Francis shot a very pretty goal. This was the only point scored, and although the visitors tried hard to equalise, the Rangers' defence was too good for them. ABERDARE WHITE STARS V. GADLYS RoVKM.— These two teams met at Aberdare Park, and a good game ended in a draw of two goals each. D. Phillips and Harry Jones scored for the Stars. The Stars would like to arrange matches with teams from 13 to 15 years. THE TREHARRIS WHITE STARS will play the Aber- dare Rangers A.F.C. on the latter's ground to-day (Thursday). The Stars team will consist of the follow- ing Goal, D. W. Jones full back, W. Hughes and D. John; half-backs, E. Thomas, R. Nevillie, und H. Davies; right wing forwards, Davies and H. Davies; centre, W. T. Davies; left wing forwards, N. Edwards and W. J. Nicholas. ABERDARE JUNCTION BntST TO DEATH.—A child of Mr. Cleverly, aged two years, was burnt to death while its mother left the house for a few minutes. Much sympathy is felt with the parents in their affliction. MINSTREL TROCPE.—The local amateur minstrel troupe gave a delightful performance at the Board Schools on Thursday. The proceeds were in aid of the widows of the sinkers who met their death at the Dowlais Works, September 9th, 1895. About J625 was realised. The place is much indebted to our young fellows for taking this matter in hand. CHAMBER OF TBADB.—After a vigorous discussion concerning the qualification of members, it has been decided that the Chamber of Trade be not confined to tradesmen, but that a hearty welcome be extended to every one who feels an interest in the welfare of the place. We understand that some important notices of motion have already been given, and that the infancy of the Chamber is characterised by a remark- able degree of activity. CATS.—Of course cats are alright when they keep decent hours. But when a whole company comes to serenade under one,- window every night, one feels that absence would make the heart grow fonder. Althcugh we are wafted to dreamland on the strains of delicious, solemn music, we should like to suggest to the Chamber of Trade the advisability of building a brickworks not far from our house. Pardon the following:— O'r anwyl, mae cor hynod-o lefau Aflafar yn dyfod; Ai swn barn, neu beth sy'n bod ? O'r hen gethern o gathod. THE MERTHYR VALE WARD ELECTIONS. I A lively meeting was held (writes our Treharris correspondent) on Monday evening last at the Bank. room of the Public Hall, Treharris, the object being the selection of a candidate for the forthcoming elec- tion of an Urban District Councillor for the Merthyr Vale Ward on the Merthyr Council, rendered vacant by the death of Major Bell. There was a crowded attendance of electors, many having failed to obtain admittance. Mr. Lewis Morris, a working man, was unanimously voted to the chair, who brieflv addressed the meeting, after which Councillor W. Lewis moved the followed resolution:—" We. the electors of the Merthyr Vale Ward, desire to offer our sincerest sympathy to the wife and family of the late Major Bell in their recent sad bereavement.—Coun- cillor Roberts. Merthyr Vale, seconded, and it was unanimously adoptled.-Councilloc W. Lewis again rose and explained the state of affairs. He thought it right a meeting should be called to try and arrange matters with their Merthyr Vale friends in the allot- ment of seats, and come to some understanding, and so avoid a contest.—Councillor Roberts, Merthyr Vale, and the Rev. W. Jones, Brynhyfryd, followed in the vernacular.—Mr. J. P. Gibbon complained of the short notice given of the election, and he thought matters had been arranged rather hastily.—At this I stage Mr. W. C. Thomas was appointed secretary of tho meeting. The following gentlemen also addressed the meeting :—Mr. E. Edwards, J.P. Penlan; Mr. T. Pritchard, Primrose Villa Mr. William Jones, Mr W. C. Thomas, Mr. Thomas Rees, Mr. D. Rees, Mr. J. Pearce, Mr. Eynon. Mr. W. A. Davies, Mr. Ree8 Jones, Fox-street; Mr. W. M. Evans, Mr. Thomas, Quakers' Yard, and Mr. Richard Davies. The last- named was proposed and seconded, as also was Mr. W. R. Thomas, Bristol House, as candidates, the result of the voting being Thomas, 53 Davies, 17. Mr. W. R. Thomas was afterwards unanimously selected, and briefly returned thanks. A deputation was appointed to visit Merthyr Vale the following day, and confer with the electors there, and if possible arrange joint action. It was also decided that if the Merthyr Vale electors waived their claim to the County Council seat they, the Treharris electors, would consider the advisability of withdrawing the District Council nomination." There was much animation during the proceedings, and judging from the aspect of affairs there will be exciting times shortly in this and other elections to follow. Our Merthyr Vale correspondent writes A public meeting of the electors of Merthyr Vale Ward was held on Tuesday evening, in the Assemblv-rooms, to nominate a candidate for the District and County Council election. Councillor John Roberts presided, supported by Councillor W. Lewis, of Treharris.—A deputation of the Treharris electors, headed by Councillor Lewis, the Rev. W. Jones, Baptist minister, Mr. W. R. Thomas, and others, attended.— Councillor W. Lewis moved a vote of condolence with the family of the late member for the ward, Major Bell; this was carried unanimously.—The meeting was addressed hy Councillors Roberts and Lewis. Messrs. P. Gardner, D. Rogers, M. Thomas, Rev. W. Jones. Mr. W. R. Thomas, and others. — It was finally decided by the meetinar, on the motion of Mr. P. Gardner, that the seats held by the late Major Bell should be allotted on the county councillorship to Treharris. and the other two to the Merthyr Vale section of the ward, namely, the seat on the District Council and on the Board of Guardians.—It is under- stood that the candidates are for the County Council, Mr. W. R. Thomas, of Treharris, and Mr. H. Gray, of Merthyr Vale, for the District Council and the Board of Guardians. — If this compact is adhered to it will avoid a contest in either election.—Monday is the last day for receiving nominations. MERTHYR CHAMBER OF TRADE. Tuesday. Present: Messrs; W. L. Daniel (pre- sident), A. Edmonds, W. Meredith, E. P. Biddle, I Francis Davies, Henry Bailey, Roger Edwards, F. T. James, W. W. Meredith, B. Morris, E. W. Harris, C. M. Davies, D. C. Harris, A. Hooper, Rev. J. G. James, and Mr. George Upham (assistant secretary). SLAMHTER-HousE.—The Secretary reported that he had not completed his report upon the slaughter- house question, but he would be in a position at the next meeting to lay it before the Chamber. TAFF VALE TRAINS.—The Secretary read further correspondence with Mr. Beasley, the general manager, T.V.R., with regard to the present inconvement passenger service on that line. Mr. Beasley wrote that no alterations would take place on the 1st of March, but we would make an appointment to meet a deputation before the alteration of the time table for the spring. THE NEW DECIMAL SYSTEM.—" The advisability or otherwise of supporting the proposal to adopt the metric weights and measures in lieu of those at present in use in this country was the next subject on the agenda. — Mr. Roger Edwards opened the discussion, and eventually proposed the following resolution That the metric system of weights and measure be made legal for all foreign sales and contracts; that the system be taught in all public elementary schools to prepare the way for its intro- duction into general use, but that it would be too great a revolution to make the system compulsory in the present educational state of the country.The proposition was seconded, but instead of passing it the discussion of the question was adjourned. NEW MEMBERS.—The following were elected new members of the Chamber: — Mr. T. Howells, auctioneer; Mr. F. Jelly man (Messrs. Eastman's); Mr. John Rich (Bottling Company); Mr. C. R. Williams, surveyor; Mr. John Anderson, surveyor of taxes; Mr. H. J. Charles, Mr. George Upham, and Mr. W. Burr, Music Warehouse.