Merthyr Times and Dowlais Times and Aberdare Echo

MERTHYR TYDFIL. MARKET SQUARE FLOWER SHOW, ART, AND INDUS- TRIAL EXHIBITION, TO BE HELD IN DRILL HALL, JULY, 1896. PRELIMINARY NOTICE OF COMPETITIONS. Open to all under 17 years of age. 1st 2nd Entrance Fee, 3d. Prize. Prize. .Sad s d L—-Best Copy in Oils (any subject) 0 7 6 4 0 lender 21 years of age. Entranco Fee, 6d. <2.—Copy in Water Colours (any sub- ow ject) 0 10 6 6 0 3.—Copy in Oils of any Land or Sea „ Scape 0 10 6 6 0 '•—Copy in Oils of any Flower, Fruit, or Figure subject 0 10 o 6 0 Open to any age. Entrance Fee, 6d. o.~Copy in Water Colours. Still Life 0 10 6 60 6.-Copy in Water Colours of any Land or Sea Scape 0 10 b 6 0 7-—Copy in Oils of any Land or Sea Scape I 1 0 10 6 3.—Copy in Oils of any Figure or Still Life subject 0 10 6 —Original Pamting in Oils of Still Life 1 1 0 10 6 10.—Best Drawing in Pen and Ink, copy of an etching or engra- ving 0 10 6 6 0 —Pencil Shaded Drawing 0 10 6 6 o 12.-Shaded Drawing from Cast, Ornament or Fruit 0 10 A a o 13. Model of a Railway Station, base not to exceed3ft. by 2ft. 1 1 o 14-.—-1 iet.ork niodol of lowcrljridgri (hind work) ° 0 ;0 6 15.—Fretwork Model of Doll's House with Furniture (machine work) 0 10 6 Ao.—HyinnTune to words God Who Hath Made the Daisies" (worcls "nay bo found No. 774 in Con- gregational Hymnal). To be written in old notation, and sent to Hon. Sec., not later than July 1st. Aujudicator, E. MI.VSHALL. Esq., London 1 1 0" .For particulars of further Competitions, Rules and Regulations, &c., see Schedule, which will be pub- lished the end of March, and may be obtained from ,le Secretary, upon receipt of stamped addressed envelope.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27TH, 1896. ^nk. case for a Welsh museum was laid before the Iloixso of Commons 011 Friday. Mr. Alfred gliomas led the way w ith a rattling good speech. Mr. Herbert Lewis followed then canie Mr. Maclean, throwing in a trood Mord ior Larditi as the locale of the museum when it conies a brace of knights kept the ball rolling, Sir John Llewelyn and Sir Osborne Morgan the man from Shrews- bury au,i \jr. Herbert Roberts came after, and John Gorst replied on behalf of the Govern- ment. Sir William Hareonrt, speaking as a Welsh Illettil)cl., and Sir John Lubbock wound up the d"bate. Not a single speaker questioned the justice of nles* claim to a aliurc of the (*ovcrinncnt» ,nuseuni grant. Scotland receives £ 17;0(Ki a year, .111d Ireland 1:31,000. At present Wales gets nothing. Yet Wales is a country bristling with obJccts which ought to be kept in a national museum. The educational value of such an in- stitution need not be dilated upon. Sir John rorst raised no objccttoJl oil the merits of the case. Ho only 11 leaded for delay because AN ales had uu recognised •Mini* -d. to sill)- «idise a. museum, 1 if locality of which the people "f NN ales had not decided upon. 'L'hat is a difficulty IiQh is not insuperable. When there ig a pros- pect of the grant being obtained it will not take it? long to give the museum a loCal habitation and a Oauic, A GOODLY portion of the time of public bodies is taken up by the reading of the minutes of previous meetings. In order to save this time, the clerk of the Mountain Ash District Council has suggested that the minutes be printed, and a copy supplied to each member. Then the minutes could be taken as read. The suggestion is an excellent one, and all local bodies might give it their consideration.

THERE is a member of the Caerphilly School Board who suffers from the Aberdare Economy fever in a very acute form. He wanted to reduce the salary of the clerk and one of the teachers. Even Aber- darc is not as bad as this. The motion of this redoubtable Caerphilly ultra-Economist, however, did not find a seconder, and was, therefore, lost. The result reflects great credit on the Board.

NEXT Monday week a conference and public meet- ing will be held in Merthyr to discuss the educa- tion question. Mr. D. A. Thomas, M.P., will preside, and the Rev. J. Hirst Hollowell, of Roch- dale, will be one of the chief speakers. At the conference a paper on the question as seen from a Nonconformist point of view will be read by the Rev. J. G. James, B.A. Advantage should be taken of the opportunity to voice the feeling of the district on this important subject.

THE House of Lords is a better authority on Welsh education than Wales herself. On Tuesday a resolution was carried to the effect that Betton's Charity be excluded from the various county inter- mediate education schemes. The resolution was moved by that pious and eminent prelate, the Bishop of St. Asaph, and supported by another ultra-progressive educationist, the Bishop of London. Lord Monkswell reminded the House that the scheme had been approved by the heads of departments of the piesent and late Govern- ments, and Lord Ilerschell pointed out that it had been formed by the joint committees of all the county councils of Wales. The Lords turned a deaf car to these words of wisdom. They allowed themselves to be bamboozled by a couple of bishops, and passed a resolution of a most retro- grade and mischievous character. Wales has had another reason for loving the House of Lords.

JAcK" takes exception to one of the remarks we made last week anent the Aberdare School Board's refusal to increase the teachers' salaries. We said the results obtained by the Aberdare Schools were very low, and that for poorer results one must go to rural districts. "Jack "takes up the cudgels in defence of the rural districts. He says there are plenty of national schools in Cardiganshire that would scorn to be classed with the Aberdare Schools. He speaks from personal knowledge, and we arc prepared to accept his dictum. He does not deal quite fairly, however, with our remarks. We did not speak slightingly of rural national schools as such. Our words apply to Board schools as well. For "Jack's" sake we reproduce them here, and beg to call his special attention to the concluding phrase For poorer results you must go to remote rural districts, where the schools are superintended by the parson or by a couple of farmers, and where the rate is inadequate to main- tain a proper staff of teachers."

Mu. W. LEWIS, of Treharris, will call attention, at the next meeting of the District Council, to a matter of considerable importance. The death of Major Bell necessitated three by-elections in the Merthyr A "ale Ward, and the complaint of the electors of that ward is that the time allowed them to carry that business through was too short. We do not know what answer there may be to this complaint. It is clear, however, that reasonable time should be given the electors to cast about for suitable candidates, and to make up their minds which of them to support. The general public cannot be driven on too hurriedly in these matters. Undue haste is unnecessary, and may injure the welfare of the community. The recent by-election in the Merthyr Town Ward of the Board of Guardians was completed before one party had met to choose their candidate. We attach no blame to anyone, but fiascos of that sort should not be possible. The subject is one that needs to be ventilated, and Mr. Lewis has done well to take it up.

MR. JOHN MOKLEY has been returned for Mon- trose with the triumphant majority of 1,903. Last year the majority was only 1,132. The Liberal poll was the largest since 1885. The party rallied round Mr. Morley with wonderful enthusiasm. Our only regret is that the constituency is not represented in St. Stephen's by a pronounced Scotch Nationalist. Mr. Morley, however, is a whole-hearted Home Ruler, aud will always be ready to recognise the national aspirations of the land of cakes." At Southampton a Tory majority of 788 has beeu converted to a Liberal majority of 33. The fact that the former member was unseated on petition may detract somewhat from the signifi- cance of this result. Still the victory is a notable one. and goes to prove that the Liberal forces are looking up after last year's defeat. ith the exception of the 1888 election, Southampton has had a Tory majority since 18S.">. The Socialist candidate suffered an ignominious defeat, polling only 273 votes. The working men of Southampton evidently do not believe in candidates who simply aim at the overthrow of both the recognised political paities.

Is Cardiff Liberalism dead?" asks the erudite 'and eloquent leader-writer of the South Wales Daily X< ('■■■<. The scribe "really cannot say." His knowledge of Cardiff Liberalism, he admits, is limited." He knows more, maybe, about Scotch Liberalism. Then he judges from the surface of things," and comes to the conclusion that Cardiff Liberalism is "in a condition of suspended ani- mation." He suggests two remedies, political alterative and political exercise," and lie wants the Liberals to take "the hoth." Is the both a Scotch idiom ? Cardiff Liberalism has been killed by Sir Edward Heed, Mr. Robert Bird, and people of that class. It succumbed to an attack of cosmopolitanism," and the funeral expenses, we understand, will be paid out of the tines which Cardiff shop assistants have to pay for speaking Welsh during business hours. The old Liberalism of Cardiff is as dead as Queen Anne. It was not strong enough to live. The best thing it could do was to die. In its place a new Liberalism will arise, a Liberalism in sympathy with Welsh national sentiment, and ready to co- operate in the effort for the enhancement, of national progress. The cosmopolitan humbug of the Reed-Bird school will be cast off, and the town will lead Wales in intellectual and political activity.

THE Salvationists of the United States arc passing through an interesting struggle. The question at issue may be formulated as follows Is the Army in the States to be dominated by American or by English ideas? Mr. Ballington Booth, the man at the head of affairs, has, by working on American lines, made the Army a great moral force for the up- lifting of the masses. But now certain fussy devotees of red-tape from London have stepped forward, and said the Army must be dominated by English ideas and worked on English lines. Mr. Ballington Booth has resigned, but the Army will support him to a man and to a woman in whatever steps he may take. the situation is thus a very interesting one, and the Nationalists of Wales will watch the develop- ment of events with much curiosity. The man sent from London to force English ideas down the throats of the American Salvationists is Colonel Eadie (we had almost written Bird in mistake). Evcn in religion. John Bull is deplorably addicted to coercion. He wants to do in America now what he did in Wales in the past. He sail! the Established Church in Wales must be English, not Welsh. For a time he succeeded. But the whirligig of time brought in its revenge in the shape of Welsh NOH conformity, and friend Bull had the worst of it in the long run. If this Colonel Eadie had not been one of the stupidest of mortals, he would have seen that American ideas are better for tliiii English ideas, and that, in trying to impose the latter on the Army in the States, he is simply knocking his head against a stone wall. Ho may get his way for a while. But it won't take him long to lind out that, to parody a well-known Newport pronounce- ment, there is a cosmopolitan population between New York and San Francisco who will not submit to the domination of English ideas. Trn; stoppage at the Plymouth Colliery has created widespread destitution and poverty in the neighbourhood. The District Council has pro- vided work for some of the men, and that goes some little way to alleviate the distress. Four men appeared before the Guardians on Saturday, well knowing, as they told the Board, that assist- ance from that source would entail the loss of their votes. When it comes to a question of daily bread or a vote, the latter has to go. Praiseworthy efforts are made at Merthyr, Abcrcanaid, and Troedyrhiw to feed the mouths of the hungry little ones. Soup kitchens have been opened, and the public have responded with commendable generosity to the appeals for assist- ance. Once a day at least the children arc given a "ood square meai. A handsome collection in aid of the funds was made at the Ladies' Choir con. cert on Thursday. To-day the proceeds of a foot- ball match will be devotelI to the same purpose, and to-morrow Mr. Sniithson gives a benefit per- formance at the Theatre Royal in aid of the funds. The Nonconformist miuisters of Merthyr are working, to use a football phrase, like Trojans. ¡ They attend daily at the Temperance Hall, and readily assist in the feeding of the hungry í children. They arc performing one of the practical duties of Christianity in a manner that has won for them the cordial gratitude of the community. At the time of writing the management and the men are still far apart, and the deplorable dispute contiuues. The prospects of a settlement arc gloomv and remote. Both sides arc linll and determined in support of their rights, and there does not. seem to be any inclination to yield. For the sake of the coal industry and tho commcrckl I well-being of the district, as well M for the sake of the thounauda of people who feel the pinch of poverty, we hope the crisis will soon come to a speedy and amicable tciniinatiou. THE HON. STEPHEN COLERIIWE'S letters about the expenditure of the Welsh University funds are not pleasant reading. He shows that a great deal of money has been spent in hotel bills, and that some people have made a good tiling out of the business. These charges may be met, or they may not. The suspicion that will cling to the public mind, how- ever, is that the government of the University is not sufficiently democratic. Somehow or other the affair has been in the hands of comparatively a few people. Speaking generally, the University has been captured by the friends of the three Univer- sity Colleges, and utilised as a means to bolster up those institutions. When the masses of the people of Wales come to understand this quite clearly there will be a stern demand for the revision of more important things than hotel bills.

SPARKSnPECBrraiTANVIL. BY JOE HAMMERSMITH. On Saturday the Board of Guardians, for the third time since the resignation of Mr. David, will have to select a relieving officer for Aberdare. Mr. Price, the candidate chosen on Saturday week, turns out to be beyond the advertised age of 45, and he has with- drawn his application for the post. When he applied he was under the impression that he was only 42, but the registrar has placed the matter beyond doubt. Last week I mentioned the fact that candidates for posts carrying with them age-limitations are generally required to produce certificates of birth. The Merthyr Guardians have not followed this rule in the past. But they will do so in the future. On Saturday they passed a resolution to that effect, proposed by Mr. R. H. Rhys, and seconded by Mr. D. Davies (Merthyr). This rule, had it been in force, would have obviated the present delay in the matter of the Aberdare relieving officer. It is doubtful whether the mode of procedure resolved upon by the Guardians is strictly legal and legular, Twe it y-three candid xtes applied for the post when it was rendered vacant by the disappearance of Williams. Out of these 23, four were picked out for final selection. Price was chosen, but he proves to be ineligible. What the Guardians are now going to do is to fall back on the other three. Are they entitled to do that ? Should they not go through the whole thing over again from the beginning, and issue advertisements in the ordinaly way? Two more cases of small-pox are reported from Dowlais, and one from Aberdare. I hope the sanitary authorities are doing all that can be done to prevent the spread of the disease. People over twelve years of age are advised to get themselves I re-vaccinated. The public vaccinators should ha\ea busy time of it during the coming weeks. The Merthyr District Council, at their last meet- ing, resolved, bv a narrow majority, to support a petition which the minority protested they did not understand. Member after member got up, and said the actual meaning of the document was not quite clear to them. That being the case, and the matter not being particularly urgent, would it not have been better :o postpone the debate for a fortnight ? It would at least have been courteous towards the minority. I can't say I quite understand this petition myself. I do not feel satisfied in my mind that I see right through it, so to speak. The petition asks that the capitation grants should be increased, and that Parliament should limit the amount to be raised by means of local taxation." What do3s this actually amount to ? Is it not the limiting of the local educa- tion rate ? The West Ham folk, who started the petition, pay a school board rate of 2s. 4d., and their little game now is to reduce that rate to 3d., and get the remainder from Imperial funds. That would not bo just and equitable to other places where the rate is lower than 2s. 4d. Moreover, the ultimate result of such a step would be the arrest of the educational progress of West Ham by the compulsory reduction of the local rate. I do not care to speak too dogmati- cally on the subject, but it seems to me that the peti- tion adopted by our District Council, the petition which the minority did not unders'snf, really aims at crippling the Board schools. My friend Mr. E. P. Biddleis retiring from busint 33 and leaving the town. We shall all miss the genial Alderman very much, ard I rather think he, too, will miss his hosts of Merthyr friends. He has played a prominent part in local affairs for many years, and he was always found in the front rank of those who fought for municipal reform. I need not enumerate the various movements with which his name has been associated. Most of the leforms he advocated have been secured. One of the last questions he took up was that of the slaughter-houses unfortunately he leaves us before that battle has been really begun, and it will have to be fought without his valuable assis- tance. There is a general feeling in the town that the Alderman," as his friends delight to call him, should not be allowed to leave us without some tangible proof of the love and respect in which he is held. Ho should carry with him to his retirement something to show that life old fellow-townsmen thought kindly of him. If a movement with that object is set on foot, as I hope it will, I am sure it will be taken up with much heartiness, and there will be no difficulty in obtaining sufficient funds for a suitable and worthy testimonial. The question has once more cropped up, what town should be the capital of Walts. I am prepared to back up the claims of Merthyr against all the towns in the blessed Principality. At any rate, it should be either Merthyr or Aberystwyth, and the claims of the former are twice as strong as those of the latter. I base my reasoning on the analogy of England, Scotland, and Ireland. The argument is rather a subtle one, but weighty and sound. What London is to England geographically, and what Edinburgh is to Scotland, that's what Merthyr Tydvil is to Wales. The three towns lie in the southern quarter. Not, mat k you, on the extreme southern border, else Cardiff would have the first claim. Cardiff is too much south, and Merthyr just south enough. Cardiff is Welsh only geographically. Ethnically (and perad venture ethically as well) it is cosmopolitan, that is to say, mongrel. Merthyr is downright Welsh, and situated in the midst of a teeming Welsh population. The same reasoning would apply with almost equal force to Aberdare. What is against Aberdare is that they haven't got a progressive School Board there. A town whose board schools are backward cannot be the capital of Wales. The analogy of Ireland favours Aberystwyth. Aberystwyth is to Wales what Dublin is to Ireland. But England and Scotland are more than Ireland, and therefore the claims of Merthyr are stronger than those of Aberystwyth. Anyone who is not satisfied or convinced by this argument is at liberty to devise a better one, if he can, for himself. Mr. Stanley Leighton, "theman from Shrewsbury," eays there are four nations in Wales: The North Welsh, the South Welsh, the Flemish, and the English-Wcl;:h. He might have added a fifth the Welsh English, or tho Anglicised Welsh, or, to call them by their more modern title, the "cosmopolitans." Still there is a doubt about the fifth, as he whom God Almighty made a Celt cannot, strictly speaking, be anything other than a Celt, however much he may desire to de-CeIticise himself. He may be able, after long, persistent effort, to forget the Welsh language. But language is only an incident, not the essence of nationality. I suppose those who want four Liberal federations for WaUs build up their argument from some such data as those mentioned by Mr. Leighton. They go on the principle of "one nation one federation." Geography, however, is, I fear, against them. And geography is a stubborn thing. Aberdare Junction has now a Chamber of Trade. There is some confusiqn about the name of this locality. It has two names Aberdare Junction and Navigation. Neither, I should say, is quite appro- priate. There is no sense at all in calling an inland town Navigation, and not much in calling a town Aberdare Junction which is not associated in any way with Aberdare. Will the Chamber kindly take this matter up. and decide it one or the other ere it is too late ? c; Now Dowlais would be a better name than either of the above. Commercially, the place is associated with Dowlais. The neighbouring town of Treharris took its name from one of the owners of the coal-pit sunk there, which brought it into being. The family name of the owners of the Aberdare Junction Pit is Guest, and "Guest-town" would not be at all bad. Treguest," the Welsh form, is a hybrid and lacks euphony, the vowel-sounds in the two syllables being too tnueh alike, Tremartin," or Trefartin," would bo Welsh enough, and a graceful compliment to the managers of the great Dowlais Company. I beg respectfully to commend these suggestions to the notice of the members of the Chamber of Trade, who are in a better position than anybody else to deal with the subject. T have tried my level best to understand the town I of Cardiff, and I have failed. They are quite angry there now because the Court of the Welsh University have decided that the installation ceremony of the Prince of Wales as chancellor is to be performed at Aberystwyth. What did Cardiff expect ? Aber- ystwyth is as near as possible to the centre of Wales, and it has the oldest and most successful of the University Colleges. Cardiff stands at the extreme end of the Principality. But then Cardiff had an exhibition, and the idea was to run the poor Prince in double harness. The exhibition and the University were to be combined for the occasion, and the gulf between the sublime and the ridiculous was to be bridged over. Downright glad am I that such a preposterous scheme has failed. The function referred to should be performed in a distinctly Welsh town. Cardiff is not a Welsh town, rind certainly not popular in the Piincipality. Wales is ashamed of Cardiff, with its shebeens and slums and brothels. Its Birds and Reeds have alienated from it the sympathy of. Welsh Nationalists. Many of its cosmopolitan shopkeepers are caddish enough to fine their assistants for speak- ing the native language of their country. If Cardiff wants to win favour in the sight of Wales it must amend its ways, cast off its political cosmopo- litanism, and cease from offending the national sus- ceptibilities of Welshmen. Until it doet; that, it should not be surprised at decisions such as that of the University Court on Friday. On Saturday afternoon I saw a football match. It was what Mr. Traill, parodying Mr. Grant Allen, would call a "Tip-top" match. The ground should have been even, but it wasn't. Far from it. There was a big hole in the middle, where, after heavy rains, there is a fine lake. They use boats, I am told, to go after the ball on those occasions. The youngsters engaged in tho match played with a will, and it was an enjoyable treat to look at them. You should see them in a scrum This thing called scrum, I may remark by tho way, is without a doubt tho most humorous diversion ever deviled by tho wit of man. If I wero a member uf the Distllet Council I think I would try and secure a tolerably decent ground for these ardent j'oung footballers. Ifc is a shame to seo thorn having to run, so tx |<peak, up hill and down dale* I There was a crowd of spectators looking on. Tho young boys smoked cigarettes. When they took tho cigarettes out of their mouths they swore.

ABERDARE NOTES. [By Alter*.] Cyclist Michael is an amateur photographer. lie has taken some very good likenesaes." Sir W. T. Lewi", Bart., has much benefitted by his brief holiday at Bournemouth. Upper Regent-street, during the recent wet day?, resembled the foreshore at Barry when the tide was out. Mountain Ash streets are not as muddy as those of 'Sweet "Bertlar. I-low, that! The crieketters of the district hope to form a league this summer. Such a league would be greatly appre- ciated by all devotees of the willow. The Aberdare Harriers are looking up. They won a handsome victory over the stars on Tuesday week. It is to be hoped that they will succeed in obtaining the use of thljs Recreation Grounds to practise upon and hold sports. Snch sports would prove a great; attraction to the town. Ha ha The lark and the thrush ars siugiug, the catkins show on the silver birch, and the yellow iiead of the coltsfoot is seen peering above the spongy sod in Aberdare Park. Things are about to happen. I have received the March number of the Hainrr, I the Baptist monthly, published by Mr. Jenkin Howell, Aberdare. The features are a portrait and biographical sketch of the Rev. E. W. Davies, Ton, Ystrad, Sunday school lessons, poetry, the Christian aspect of Wales in John Penry's time, ire. The articles are very readable. One of tho questions put to Miss Ada Le Butt, the clairvoyant, at the Swiss Choir entertainment on Fri- day was a* to where the missing relieving1 officer had grone to. No answer was given. The Rev. R E. Williams (Twrfab) tells me that he has in his possession a very old elsh book, called "Llwybr Hyffordd i'r Nefoedd," the author being Robert Llwyd, vicar of Waun, Denbighshire." At the end of the preface is the following O'm ftafell yn :Ffofter-hin yo Llundain Yr vgeinfed dydd o 6s Medi, 1629. Yr eiddot yn yr Arglwydd. R. 1..1." Here is a translation of one extract from this very old book: The fire of Hell is so fierce that it will burn a man. who is seven miles off, to ashes." The Rev. R. R. RutiQrkF, B.A., told his congregation on Sunday that he had ambition to be a preacher when only a youngster. He had a vivid recollection of preaching to a group of companions on the stairs. His favourite topic was eternal punishment, and he used to make it warm for some of them The shubberies at the Park have been greatly improved by judicious pruning. The whole place now presents a most pleasant appearance. It is to be hoped that the suggestion made in these columns a few weeks ago will be acted upon, and that a band of music will be engaged to play in the Park during the summer evenings. It is satisfactory to note that Mr. P. T. Rhys, the deputy-coroner, is a. Welshman. At a recent inquest he examined one of the witnesses in Cymraeg. This is as it should be. All officials in Wales should be conversant with the language of the mountains." Two of our Nonconformist ministers are ardent cyclists. Why not ? The members of the Lawn Tennis Club are to be congratulated on their histrionic ability. At their pleasant entertainment last week they performed the farco, ,")Iatrnuonial Prospectuses," in as good a manner as professionals. Mr. George Kenshole and Mr. L. Eschle were most interesting, and Miss Mia Evans, Miss Chiaholm, and Miss May Davies, did their parts with conspicuous success. Several pressmen tried to interview Jimmy Michael the other day but mum was the word." Professor Steen, who i" at present appearing at Aberdare, says that Spiritualism is » humbug, and mesmerism a fraud. Sensible people will concur with the professor. Captain Lindsay, the Chief Constable, was present at the police-court on Tuesday. It is hoped to start the Aberaman Cycling Club this season again. Last year, it will be remembered, the club, after a'flickering existence, collapsed. But this year it is intended to place the club on a sound footing. The police are to be commended upon their action with regard to street obstruction. At the last police- court several youths were fined for blockading the pavements. It is 011 Sunday night that the nuisance is at its zenith, peaceable citizens being obliged to forsake the pavements for the roadway. Dear Argus writ JS a correspondent A mist extraordinary incident happened at a local Baptist Chapel on Sunday night. Whilst the preacher was going on with his sermon a man in the congregation stood up and complained of the noise caused by some youths in the gallery. A woman also got up and made a similar complaint. The preacher stooped his sermon, and asked the youths to keep quiet. It is scandalous that youths cannot keep decorum in a place of worship." It is whispered that Prof. R. Howeils, who has been accompanist to the Choral Society for many years past, intends resigning his post. We are sorry to hear it.

llEM ARK ABLE CONSPIRACY AT NEW YORK. The police on Monday morning discovered the exis- tence of a remarkable conspiracy to blow up with dynamite the Sub-Treasury Building in New York. There is more gold in the building than there has been for years, tho amount at present stored in it being about 73,000,000 dollars. Thirty men who are impli- cated in the plot held a meeting on Saturday night, and settled the details of their nefariousschemc. The detectives, however, had had their suspicions aroused, and managed to overhear the arrangements. The conspirator" settled that six of their number were to be provided with powerful bombs with two-minute fuse3 attached, and that, armed with these infernal machines, thev were to go to the Sub-Treasury at three o'clock 011 Tuesday morning, and place the bombs in convenient and suitable spots on each side of the building. This having been done, they were to retreat a safe distance before the explosions took place. The remainder of the men were to be concealed m the vicinity, and were to rush in as soon as the bombs burst, and during the excitement which would necessarily ensue were to secure and carry off all the gold they "possibly could. They calculated that they would have at least a quarter of an hour in which to work in tho ruins getting the gold before a sufficient number of firemen and police, could arrive to stop them. Several of the conspirators have been arrested.

THE TYLOIWTOWN DISASTER. THE "ONE TN A THOUSAND" A DOWLAIS MAX. CLOSE OF THE INQUEST. On Tuesday the inquest, conducted by Coroner R. J. Rhys, having lasted for seven days, was concluded, tlie following being tho jury's verdict W e are of opinion that the cause of the explosion was the tiring of a shot in gas in Daniel W illiams' road in No. 8 Pit, and that tho air passing through the faces was charged with gavS and probably came in contact with a film of gas in Daniel Williams' road, and the explosion was also accelerated by coil dust. Wc also are of opinion that no one now living is responsible for the explosion." The following rider was added :— We recommend that a competent man be appointed to fire all the shots—one on each shift. We are of opinion that a practical and competent overman be appointed to have sole charge of the night shift in each pit. We were surprised to understand by the evidence given thather Majesty's inspectors have not madea thorough and systematic inspection of No. 8 Pit during the past fifteen months, and we also recommend that practical working men be appointed as assistant inspectors of mines." Readers of the Cardiff dailies will have noticed, 111 the reports of the sad disaster at Tvlorstown, that a man named Williams, whose narrow escapo from death surprised every one, has been referred to as one in a thousand." On Friday last our reporter was at Dowlais, and called at the residence of Alderman Evan Lewis to inquire after the health of that gentle nian. Much to his surprise and delight the pressman found that Mr. Lewis had so much recovered from his dangerous illness that lie was able to be downstairs. After congratulating the Alderman upon his improve- ment in health, and a laugh at the rumours which were spread abroad to the effect that ho had shuffled off this mortal toil, conversation drifted to the disaster at Tylorstown. I knew the man in a thousand well," remarked the Alderman. He is the son of the late Mary and William Williams, of Broad-street, Dowlais. There were five sons, and their career will be verv interesting to your readers. The sons were Edward, Thomas, David, Roderick, and Rees Williams. Each of them has met with accidents underground with the exception of Rees. Edward lost his leg in a pit, David lost his life underground, Thomas emigrated to America, Rees went to Liverpool and travelled for a firm of which he is now a partner, the China and India Tea Company, and they have branches in London, Liverpool, Paris, and, in fact, all the world over. About 33 years ago Roderick Williams, the one in a thousand," worked with :ue as a miner in I< rancis Pit, Dowlais. Of course, you know I started life as a miner. We worked together for many years. Roderick then left Dowlais, and went to Griffiths Thomas' Pit at the Mardy, and was in the Mardy Pit when that terrible explosion occurred. His bravery was very conspicuous at that time. I then lost sight of him tor a time, the first time for years, and now I am proud to learn that lie is the very man who has shown eo much conspicuous bravery at Tylorstown the man in a thousand.' I consider lie deserves the Albert medal at least, and that his fellow-workmen and the public fenerally should not allow his bravery to pass unrewarded." Speaking of his indisposition, Mr. Lewis said he «'^>t for about nine hours the previous night--the first wink he had had for 6ver four week-. He felt his chbt even better than before, but the rheumatic fever had caused him to sutler severely. I hope that before long," said Mr. Lewis, you will seo 1110 well enough to resume my part in pubiio affairs, and to thank my friends who have eo kindly called upon me in my severe illnes?."

The "MKETFTS TIVKS" it, d<?!b ered to Subscribers ATATY address in Merthyr amI Dowlais. Country subscribers can Jiive their copies posted on Thursdar morning in time fertile i fi.m delivery on I'rid*; mcrning.

I MERTHYR YALE WARD ELECTIONS. Our Treliarris correspondent writes On Friday evening last a public meeting was held at the flank- room of the Public Hall to hear tIll) report of the deputation appointed the previous Monday evening to visit Merthyr Vale re District. Council nomination, and to nominate a candidate for the coming County Council election in the Merthyr Yale Ward, rendered vacant by the death of Major Bell. The room and passage to the same were crowded long before the time fixed for the openinz of the meeting. A consul- tation took place, the hall above being occupied by a theatrical company, when Councillor W. Lewis announced that himself and two other deacons under- took, under the exceptional circumstances, to throw open the doors of Bethel English Baptist Chapel for -the holding of tho meeting. There was at once a great exodus to that place of worship, which was promptly filled, over 300 people being present. Electors from all parts of tho ward put in an appear- ance, and a stormy time was anticipated, much animation being prevalent. The veteran chairman, Mr. Lewis Morris, was again in the chair, supported by Councillors W. Lewis and Roberts, Meitliyr Yalo. The Chairman briefly opened the meeting, and then called upon Councillor W. Lewis to speak. That gentleman said they were all aware of the result of the deputation to Merthyr, Yale, but to their great surprise they found that Mr. Richard Davie3 was nominated after his assurance the previous Monday that he accepted the result of the meeting held on that.night. Let it be understood that this refers to the District Council. He suggested that Mr. Richard Davies should address the meeting, whereupon Mr. Davies immediately complied, and said he allowed himself to be nominated because lie thought there I was something behmd the scenes but now he was satisfied, and readily withdrew. The following resolu- tion was then proposed, seconded, and carried" That this meeting begs to offer its warmest thanks to Mr. Richard Davies for retiring." After some remarks from Mr. Uren complaining of the meeting being called in the Bank-room, which would only seat about 80 electors, the Chairman announced that the question of the District Council seat was now settled, it being left entirely to Merthyr Yale, and invited pro- positions for the County Council election.—The Kev. W, .Tones advocated the ballot.—Mr. W. M. Evans was pleased to support, and it was adopted.—During the proceedings there was considerable confusion, when Mr. B. P. Evans appealed to the electors to remember where they were, and to conduct themselves with credit and treat one another like gentlemen. Mr. B. P. Evans, Mr. Morris, Mr. Woodyatt, and Mr. Phillips were appointed scrutineers, and Mr. Ambrose Jones was appointed secretary of the meet- ings—Mr. Richards, Pentwyn, proposed Mr. Edwards, J.P., Penylan; Mr. Miles seconded. Mr. D. Richards, Graig, proposed Mr. D. Prosser; Mr. Richard Davies seconded.—Mr. Evnon proposed Mr. Jacob Rav. agent; Mr. Uren seconded.—Mr. William Jenkins protiosed Mr. W. R. Thomas; Mr. Grewsvenor seconded.—Mr. W. A. Davies thought that the nomi. nated gentlemen should be asked if they would abide by the result of the meeting. Mr. W. R. Thomas, whilst thanking his proposer and seconder, withdrew. The voting was as follows Prosser, 104 Ray, 96 Edwards, 40. Voting between Mr. Prosser and Mr. Ray then took place, and resulted as follows: Prosser, 118 Ray, 104. Mr. Prosser was, therefore, the successful candidate, the other gentlemen abiding by the voice of the meeting. The following gentlemen also addressed the meetingMr. J. P. Gibbon, Mr. Morgan, Pentwyn Mr. Gaines, Mr. D. Rees, Mr. Giles Jones, Mr. James, Fox-street Mr. Davies, Windsor-place; Mr. Thomas Rees, Mr. Edwards, Fern Hill; and Mr. Gomer Price.Mr. J. I'earce proposed a vote of confidence in Councillors W. Lewis and J. Roberts, Merthyr Yale, for past services.—Mr. Uren seconded.—Messrs. Lewis and Roberts returned thanks.—Mr. B. P. Evans proposed a vote of thanks to the chairman.—Mr. Joseph Owen proposed a similar vote for the use of the chapel, as also a vote to thescrutineers, all of which were unanimously carried. -After a few words thanking the electors in the ver- nacular from Mr. D Prosser, the meeting dispersed. A crowded meeting was held at the Bankroolll of the Public Hall, Treharris, on Tuesday evening last, Mr. J. Edwards, chcckweigher, in the chair, to consider the latest developments in connection with the vacancy upon the County Council in the Merthyr Yale Ward. After a few remarks from the chairman, Mr. I). Prosser said he had received a letter from Mr. Gray, Merthyr Yale, stating that he (Mr. Gray) had had an interview with Mr. Thomas Rees, Ynys?ored, who was nominated on Monday with Mr. D. Prosser for the seat, and had prevailed upon Mr. Rees to withdraw, which he had done.— Mr. Trosser then thanked the electors tor the honour done him, and said ho was the largest ratepayer 111 the ward but one. He wa-; in favour of tho working classes having a good education, and he never grudged the money he paid in rates for that purpose, lie had been a member of the Finance Committee and the Asylum Committee of the Council, and detailed some of the work he had done in that capacity. Although he received nearly a thousand pounds a year in royal- ties lie was in favour of their taxation. He had always voted Liberal, and could bring any prominent Liberal member of the Council to bear witness that he had done so. He had always, whilst on the Council, endeavoured to do his duty, and should do so again.—The Chairman imited questions, when Mr. W. It. Thomas asked Mr. Prossers views on the county education scheme, and another question, which were "satisfactorily answered.—Councillor W. Lewis said they met under more favourable circumstances than tho last meeting. He was pleased with Mr. Prosser's address, and was glad to find he was in favour of taxing royalties. Mr. Henry Da\ ic-s, mining lecturer, said he had no hand in this excellent arrangement, which had turned out so successful. He was pleased to see so many working men present, and believed that they had made a good choice in Mr. Prosser.—After some remarks from Mr. Peter Gardener, Mr. Smith, Merthyr Vale, and Mr. Lewis Morris, votes of thaks were passed to Councillor Prosser for his address, to the Merthyr Vale friends for ther counsel and action, and to the chairman. On Tuesday, Mr. Lewis Thomas, returning officer, attended at Treharris, in connection with the bye- election of a successor to the late Major Bell as representative of the Merthyr Yale Ward upon the Glamorgan County Council. Mr. T. Rees withdrew from the contest, and the other candidate, Mr. David Prosser, was therefore returned unopposed. Mr. H. E. Gray was elected Urban District Councillor for Merthyr Yale Ward in place of the late Major Bell. Our Merthyr Y ale correspondent writes: I hear that Mrs. Rees has been approached with a view to her coming out as a lady guardian at the forthcoming election. If she consents to stand she is assured of the popular support. IMPORTANT NOTICE OF MOTION. At the next meeting of the District Council, Mr. W. Lewis intends to call attention to the "exceed- ingly brief notice given of the bye-election in the Merthyr Yale Ward, and the limited time allowed to select a suitable candidate for nomination being only two clear days." Mr. Lewis will move a resolution on the subject, and a lively discussion is anticipated. ELECTION JOTTINGS. Mr. Lewis Morris, Q.C." was in fine form (writes our Treharris correspondent) on Friday evening last. His ready wit and humorous sallies created much amusement. He and Mr. Eynon exchanged compli- ments l-ather freely. The latter attempted to say something about the Miners' Permanent Fund, but the "Q.C." beckoned him to resume his seat, adding "that they wanted men of sense and wisdom to speak there that night, and not (loud laughter). Mr. Eynon retorted that we had got a got a good councillor (Councillor Lewis) on the Merthyr Council. He had done his work well, but be had capped all that night by putting a like that (pointing to the chairman) 111 the chair (roars of laughter). A public meeting without the "Q.C. in the chair would bo in- complete, but at times he is a little bit too funny, the result being that ho diverts the attention of the audience from the principal point. Mr. B. P. Evans' salutary remarks promptly checked what at one time threatened to be a scene of turbulence. No one thought that the I.L. P. nominee really meant business, and his withdrawal from the fray leaves Merthyr Yale in possession. The County Council part of the meeting was a funny affair, as only one of the candi- dates was present, and neither had issued or delivered an address giving an outline of what they would do if placed on the Council. We understand Mr. Prosser will do so shortly. 'V. R." withdrew, an action which has increased his popularity. A lively meeting was last Friday night's and no mistake. THE I.L.P. AND THE ELECTIONS. S)R, -iSince I last wrote you things ha\e developed considerably, which fact I deemed sufficient to justify me in altering the heading of my letter. The power- ful (':) I.L.P. has made a feeble attempt to put a Socialist working-man candidate on the Merthyr Council by offering the services of Mr. Richard Davies, a working man and a member of the I.L.P., to the electors of the Merthyr Yale Ward. On Mon- day ""eok a meeting was held at the Bankroom of the Public Hall for the purpose of choosing candidates, when Mr. W. R. Thomas and Mr. Richard Davies, Treharris, were proposed, the voting resulting in the selection of the former by a large majority, whilst the latter agreed with the result. To everybody's surprise it soon transpired that Mr. Davies was nominated, but it was only for a short time, as at the meeting on the following Friday night Mr. Davies showed the white feather by withdrawing from the contest, and the meeting was soft enough to pass a vote of thanks to him for this step. 1 call imagine how the I handful of harmful Socialsts tittered over this, and I thought what a pity they did not hold fast and go to the poll, and, to use a phrase of Sir W illiam Har- court's. stew in their own juice." Everyone knows I that the coffers of the I.L.P. are being emptied, and monev vou must have, even at a local election, and that useful commodity must be short at Treharris, for a charge of threepence is announced before you can hear Mr. Brocklehurst, B.A., define the meaning of Socialism. By the time this letter appears Mr. Brookichurst will have delivered his lecture, and we are all expecting an intellectual treat. We were promised a lecture on a former occasion by Mr. Ben Tillet, but that gentleman did not turn up, the cause, it is said, being illness, and his place was taken by a Mr. McCarthy, a voluble speaker, the chairman being Dr. W. W. Leigh, J.P. I did pity the genial doctor, because I could see he was uncomfortable in fact, ho said he did not agree with a lot Mr. McCarthy had said. But he and many others who could not swallow the lecture derived courage ftom a thought of that memorable letter that Lord Salisbury addressed to a working-man elector of a London constituency which commenced with My Dear Peters," and the additional thought that the I.L.P. may have a con- siderable hold on the working-men electors whom the G.O.M. once described as the bono aud sinew of the country." Yes the Tories aud Church people can that the I.L. P. crew are a few renegades in each place from the Liberal strongholds, and hasten to make friends with them, with a view of prolonging Toryism in its worst form, and tho continuation of the Established Church, an institution the bulk of the people havo long^ ago deserted. I pin my faith and support to that body that placed me and my like upon tho electorate of the Uftited Kingdom, apd thereby (although fractionally) gave us a voice in the management of our country's affairs and for any thoughtful working man to desert the Liberal Party after such an achievement as that would be very cruel indeed. Expectant's letter in your last issue is very tame aud far from tho poiut, for he has not dealt with my questions, neither ha9 he made any re- mark worthy of my attention. When he does I am prepared to meet him. I am now anxious to hear what a "B.A. has to say about Socialism, and I promise you another letter ere long-I am, yours, etc., ANTI-SOCIALIST. Treharris, Feb. 24th, 1896. SIR,—A correspondent favoured your columns last week with an epistle oil the above, and lie said in reference to the late Major Bell that had he lived he would have carried out the duties with "marked ability." Who is "A Poor Ratepayer," and why mislead us by his signature ? However, I suggest he should sign himself A Poor Ignorant Ratepayer, and also study polit'cal economy if he can get the right sort. Are we always to have working men who think it is the best step to put capitalists and middle class on all representative bodies? If the argument stands good here, then it stands good for the Trade Union Congress, Co-operative. Congress, See. A Poor Ratt'paj-er's appeal to the electors of the Merthyr Yale Ward is indistinct and evasive. I would say, put intelligent wording men on all ropre- sentative bodies, and then we have no need to beg, but we can dictate and rightly so, and did we but extend the system to Westminster wo should soon ascertain the cause and remedy of your correspondent's authentic statement alxmt our toilers: "Many of whom at the present time can scarcely ketp body and soul together." Eh man, we have been busy in Treharris these few days since. Such conferences of twos, threes, aud more 111 their anxiety to represent the ratepayers. Even the Times Treharris correspondent is predicting a healthy breeze in future elections, and a growing disposition to run Socialist candidates. A member of the local l.L.P. was run even to being nominated, though he has si nee withdrawn. The Trade Unionists present, I was given to understand, went dead for the I Labour representative. A couple of the railway society members were present, and surely they wero -not found wanting when an opportunity arose such as I' this. However, if such was the case, I must give my candid opinion that it is a discredit to any trade union to have men who would neglect such an oppor- tunity to assist in putting Labour in representative positions irrespective of politics. Let these cowards defend themselves, if they can, either by means of your columns or their own society meeting. We expected so much from Trade Unionism. Another rumour, and since confirmed, i.e., they are co-opera- tors Never, sir; they have yet to inherit the prin- ciples of Trade Unionism and Co-operation. A friend of mine suggests that the persons referred to are members of the Free Labour Association." I do not know, and therefore cannot say.—Yours faithfully, CONSISTENT. r correspondent, A Poor Ratepayer," writing in last week's issue of the Times, voiced fairly accurately the opinions of many other ratepayers in this and other districts. It has become almost axiomatic now, what was formerly considered a wild theory, that there has been no Act of Parliament which did not increase the rates. In connection with local taxation this is almost incredibly true. Taxa- tion has gone up by leaps and bounds, chiefly owing to the fact that our paternal Government has been forcing on us various presents and toys in the shape of councils, at which some of our wealthier people, especially if they be landlords, play at being Members of Parliament, while in other parts where we feel more democratic, we return nobody possessing six- pence, aud play at an enlightened republic. In the end it amounts to the same thing we have to pay, and pay twofold too. Our paternal Government, in the first place, makes us pay for the toy, and secondly we have to pay for all the vagaries of the toy as manipulated by the users like fathers paying for the windows which their boys break with their tops. In fact, some of us are almost ready to pray that no more expensive toys shall be given to us, but yet those we have are very pretty and we might be sorry to part with them. So the only question is, can we make them efficient at less cost ? Personally, 1 think tnere are two ways of doing this. Firstlj-, we mk'ht see that in the election of mem- bers we elect only men who, we are certain, will be careful of public money, and acting not for their own honour and glory but for the vvelfare of the people at large. Secondly, it is time for us to show our Govern- ment that we cannot possibly bear heavier burdens, and to demand that those we already bear shall be lightened. The Government, in granting us increased facilities for spending public money, rendered their grant null and void by forgetting to grant us any increase of re- venue to meet the increased expenditure. The enormous gains of the ground landlord and the owner of royalties, which annually amount to nearly three hundred millions of pounds, should be made amenable to all I. the purposes of local taxation, and then wo should find that not only would we be able to bear our burdens with some resignation, hut that even the burdens would become much lighter, «inee the unearned incre- ment would bear its part. W e cannot wilfully overlook the statement of A Poor Ratepayer that tho Taff Yale Railway Comp- any pay annually £20,000 in rates and taxes, which amounts to 1 per cent, dividend on their ordinary stock. This is indirectly a tax upon labour, but the fruits of idleness are let off scot free. I am afraid my fellow electors do not consider tie- importance of these things. They do not sufficiélltly consider the fitness of many of the aspirants for local honours. They arc too often carried away by the prejudicial influence of cliques and mechanical com- binations to defeat public opinion.—1 am, yours, etc., Vox Porn. 1.

WALES IN PARLIAMENT. On Thursday, in the House of Commons, Mr. E. Jones Griffiths gave notice that on the 6th of March he would call attention to the necessity of granting to the Welsh people the right of control over the liquor traffic.—Mr. Lloyd-George gave notice that on the 13th of March he would call attention to the question of land in Wales, and move a resolution.—Mr. J. Bryn Roberts gave notice that on the 28th of March he would move a resolution in favour of a second ballot in elections, where no candidate obtained an actual majority of the votes recorded.—Mr. W. Jones gave notice that on an early day lie would move a resolution in favour of local self-government for Wales.—Mr. Herbert Rolxjrts gave notice on the 6th of March to call attention to the grievances of postmen. --+_

A R IN AAV AY HORSE AT CEFN. An accident of a rather serious nature occurred at Cefu on Tuesday afternoon, which might have resulted fatally to two or three persons. It seems that Mr. Chamberlain, the well-known Merthyr haulier, was engaged by a firm of organ manufacturers to convey from the Cefu Station to St. John's Church the new organ which is being fitted up at that place of worship. While thus employed it appears that an empty box, which was being lifted into the cart, in which were also a porter named Wren and another man from the firm, somehow touched the liorse. The animal suddenly bolted down the steep road leading from the church to Lower Yavnor-road, thence down High- street at a terrific pace, defying every attempt made to stop it. The two men were thrown out, receiving in their fall scri JUS injuries. The horso continued its mad career over the Pandy-road until it reached the neighbourhood of the Lamb and Flag, Brecon-road, where horse and cart came to grief by performing a sommersault on the road. The men, though severely injured, are progressing favourably.

MR. HARKY J;VAXS, A.R.C.O. Mr. Harry Evans, A.R.C.O., of Dowlais, deserves the most hearty congratulations 011 the brilliant success of his pupil, Miss Rosina Beynon, at the R.C.M. When he discovered her a little over two two years ago, Miss Beynon had but a puny little voice. Under his training, however, she made wonder- ful progress. Mr. Evans sent her in for the examina- tion of the Associated Board of the R.A.M. and R.C.M., and this she passed with "honours" last April. Dr. Stanford, who examined her, was so struck with her style that he spoke to Mr. Evans about taking her to London. This Mr. Evans did in July, when she sang at Covent Garden Theatre before Sir Augustus Harris, his musical adviser, and Dr. Stan- ford. They were all greatly pleased, and strongly advised Mr. Evans to let his promising pupil go to London to pursue her studies. SI10 went then in October last, and her success there is now known to all. There were 500 candidates for the two scholar- ships. Dr. Stanford complimented Mr. Evans 011 his teaching on both occasions, namely tho Cardiff and the London examinations. These facts are an eloquent testimonial to Mr. Evans as a teacher, and further praise would be utterly superfluous. His musical career, thousdi short, has been exceptionally brilliant, and a splendid future awaits him. It may be added that he opened a new organ at the English Congregational Chapel at Ton, Pentre, on Sunday last, the recital in the afternoon being attended by a crowded congrega- tion. That bis efforts were appneciated is evidenced bv the fact that he has been booked for another recital at the same chapel a fortnight hence. This (Thursday) evening he gives an organ recital at Zoar Chapel, Merthyr.

DELIGHTFUL TREATMENT FOR CURING CORPULENCE. The process of curing any physical disorder is so generally the converse of delightful that the use of this and similar terms in reference to Mr. F. C. Russell's now popular treatment for corpulency natur- ally attracts special attention. These terms are to be found in a large number of letters included in the just-issued 18th edition of Mr. Russell's little volume of 256 pages, "Corpulency and the Cure" (Woburn House, Store-street, Bedford-square, London, W.C.). These communications are from persons of both sexes, and it is apparent that their number is represented by thousands annually, who have found in this system of treatment a safe, rapid and permanent cure for excessive fatness. This testimony forms in the aggregate, indeed, a wonderful record of rapid reduction of excessive afi -)ose tissue, and those who have pesonal reasons for being inter- ested in the subject should send to the above address six penny stamps for a copy (post fr •«) of Mr. Russell's !10taJ.ly.:mgge, ti VI little book. I think the treatment most delightful," writes one o it of a largo j number of equally-enthusiastic correspondents. And the expressions. Admirable tonic," Splendid stuff,} "A delicious beverage mixed with mineral waters,' are of constant recurrence in this singularly-interest- ing correspondence The details given by many of the writers of these letters as to the results of the treatment fully justifies the use of such eulogistic phrase-1. Tt must certainly be delightful to experience the i-ensation of losing unnecessary and dangerous fat bv pounds per week, and frequently by stones per month, and that by aid of treatment which simul- taneously increases the appetite aud renders its reason able indulgence inocuous. The experience, too, must be still more delightful by the knowledge, which may be gained from a p;>rusal of Mr. Russell's book, that his preparation is a pure \egetable product, without ainvadmixture of the mineral poisons which are too frequently administered. With a candour which also is delightful, Mr. Russell prints in hn fcook the recipe for the preparation.

BY THE WAY. -+- Mr. Labouchere has a fist of which eveu ou own Merthyr ealigraphists are a bit jealous. H writes his name to look like "Wahusey." "Yniosodiad mawr ar Deyrnas y Gelyu" is tte way in which the Wesleyans of A berdare announce their forthcoming revival meetings. A chunk of wisdom with the fringe sarcastic:" Tiiat is how the Western Mo it speaks of one of our last week's leaderettes. N\ e the wisdom, but not the sarcasm. Good Old Leaning Tower There is an average attendance of 109 per cent, at the Caerphilly Infant School. How do you like that bit of cheese, frieud Snap-shuts? Dr. Skeat say-; the Cam in Cambridge has no connection with tlie Welsh word cam," meanirg "crooked." Where is Morieti ? Will he not. philo- losrieally speaking, slay Dr. Skeat as he slew Professor Morris Jones ? The Cardiff people, having failed to get the Prince of Wales to open their exhibition, now intend approaching either Dr. Jim or Oom Paul. They are also going to ask the new poet laureate to write an ode in honour of the event. Westminster "sti!l acts as the candid friend of the Government. In his last budget of notes he says —The present Government has, I regret to say, shown a good deal of stiffness in in dealings with the demands made by Wales for increased educational aid, and Sif William Harcourt 011 Friday night made the most of the contrast between their niggardliness and his own free-handed policy when he was at the Exchequer." It was a great mistake, from the Tory point of view, not to find a place in the administra- tion for the member for Cardiff. This is from the Evening Express diary for Satur- day, under the heading "Ten Years Ago" Death of Mr. Rees Lewis, printer, Merthyr, aged 82. He and-Mr. Joseph Edwards, sculptor, were fellow mem- l>ers of the first eisteddfod ever held in Merthyr, and one which Ap lolo" was associated. This eistedd- fod was known as the Cymmrodori )n. There had been some minor festivals before, but of a convivial character."—Mr. Rees Lewis, we may add, was the proprietor and editor of the Fclltcn, and father of Mr. .J,.P. Lewis, whe still carries on the printing and stationery business. In the House of Commons on Tuesday, Sir M. White Ridley (Home Secretary), replying to Mr. David A. Thomas (R., Merthyr Tydfil), said any application that reached him on the subject of giving the title of Lord Mayor to the chief magistrate of Cardiff (the title not being employed by any corporate town in the Principality) would, he need not say. receive his careful consideration, but the difficulty cf distinguishing between the comparative claims of Cardiff and other towns of equal or even greater importance would, he though, prima facie, bo an objection to acceding to the request.

THREATENED STRIKE AT MERTHYH VALE. The stokera at the Merthyr Vale Colliery have given a month's notice to terminate their contract with the company. They are agitating for& retiuc- tion of their hours of labour (12) and an increased wage. A meeting to discuss their grievances and determine their course of action, was held in tbe Assembly-rooms, on Friday evening last, when a deputation of the Plymouth miners attended to lay their case before the Merthyr Vale men, and ask for their sympathy and support. It was resolved to support the Plymouth men while they are out.

METEOROLOGICAL REGISTER Recorded at Bryuteg. Approximate height above sea level, 685 feet. Pate. Direction of Rain- Thermometer Readings, Wind, fall. Max. Min. Wet. Ply, Feb. 20 S. '17 48 45 47 47 „ 21 N.W. -09 4S 41 35 36 22 E. -0 45 34 41 41 „ 23 E. '0 41 28 31 34 „ 24 S.E. -0 41 27 32 34 „ 25 S.E. '0 37 26 29 31 „ 26 X.E. -0* 40 26 29 30 Total '26

POWELL'S TULSAM OF AXISKKD.—This is a remedy that la already so widely known tha^tt requires very few words from us to enhance its universal popularity. It has born* the test of seventy years' experience, and shows every likclthood of remaining: a favourite family medicine with the public. One. of the chief advantages of this preparation is that it is perfectly safe, and so may be freely used as a domestic remedy. It is agreeable to the palate, and may therefore be readily taken by children. It will relieve the cough in cases of asthma, bronchitis, inflammation of the larynx, and has a most soothing and composing effect in that frequently- recurring and exhaustive malady known as wiDter cojgh." The balaain may be safely recommended as a pleasant and effective preparation, and in winter and ing no household should be without it.—The Family iDoctor Newspaper, Xcvember 30th 1895.

A FACT THAT PURCHASERS AT w J JJIGH STREET S AYE FROM 15 TO 25 PER CENT. This is an absolute fact, as many of our customers have testified. Ask anyone who has purchased from us, and they will satisfy you. Many houses in the furnishing trade re accustomed to ticket goods at the doors, especially cheap, to attract attention. Williams's have no call-birds of this description all thsir goods are priced in the same low ratio as those particularised below. THE PRICES. THE TRIUMPH LEATHER SUITE.-Com. moner Suites are sold elsewhere from 6 to 8 guineas. Our price for a good Suite, sound M & bell, £ 4 17s. 6d. > PEDESTAL WRITIXG TABLES. others' P price, £3 10s. Williams's price, 44e. SIDEBOARDS.—A grand 6ft. bow-front Sideboard, SIDEBOARDS.—A grand 6ft. bow-front Sideboard, iu walnut, oak, or mahogany, only 13 guineas. DINING TABLES.—Telescope Dramg Tables, with extra leaf, polished throughout, 35s. OVERMANTELS.—See our realty wagnifiamt 0 display of "all solid" Walnut Overmantels at 10 to 20 per cent. less than others charge for veneered ones. Call upon us, and you will be satisfied this is true. CROUCHES.—Good Leather Couches, well stuffed, _17s. lid. SADDLEBAG SUITES.—A good, sound, saddle bag Suite, nice pattern, well-made frames, and clean finish, for 7 guineas. t (CABINET. — Inlaid Rosewood, with l>evelled J plates, £5 12s. 6d. BEDROOM SUITES.—Williams's Gigantic Stt>ek of Bedroom Suites is unapproached and on- approachable. They are not garret-mado goods. Call and see what they are, and the prices will astonish you. BEDROOM SUITE.—A pretty Suite, Japanned Satin Walnut and Hungarian Ash, with plate glass door to wardrobe, dressing chcst, marble top washstand, &e., &c.. £ 4 17s. 6d. BEDROOM SUITE. — 6ft. Black Walnut Bedroom Suite, high-class make and finish, for 22 guineas. This is acknowledged marvellous value. Commoner suites are sold daily for 8 and 10 guineas more money. Call and sr-e this suite. I p D"CHESSE7TWLETS. I,-ea- Duchesse Toilets, 36s. 6d. the pair. BEDSTEADS.—Full size Bedsteads, cl'eap make, BEDSTEADS.—Full size Bedsteads, cl'eap make, 9 s. lid. BEDSTEADS, with massive pillars, a special line. With 2-inch polished pillars and heavily bra?; mounted for 65s. as good and heavy a bedstead as those ticketed elsewhere at £ 4 4s. BEDSTEAD in Parisian shape, with brass mounts 113 and pearl spindles, 22 12s. 6d. ^yriRE MATTRESSES, double woven, from w OOL MATTRESSES fiom 9s. lid. MANGLES, full size, 24-inch, warranted beet quarted rollers, 35s. Compare the prices. RASS CUIil5S a^dY^DERS^roni 4sr ildT The Champion Brass Curl), with 6 massive supports and heavy rail, at 18s. lid., speaks for itself you have doubtless been it in our windows. Call and look at it next time you are passing. rilOl LET and DINNER WARE. -A ne.at pattern, A full size, Toilet Set, 4t;. lid. Dinner Services from 7s. lid, (i \RPETS and CURTAINS.—Tapestry Squares, J 15s. lid., excellent pattern; a Lace Curtains, with frilled edg**»> 6s. lid. ASSINETTES and MATL C. Wfs.Ai'a"re compelled to clear these to make room for ou growing Furniture trade. we are offering them a exceptionally Low- JpRINCJiSS MAY KOC.KERS, 10s 6d."cach. rjMJll -MI'H NU RSERY CH AI US from 10s. 6d. KifCHEN CHAIRS.—Good Lath-back Chairs, 2s. 10id. each. OTAIK RODS. — Rouud, Half-round, and Tr? S angular Stair Rods at 25 per cent. off iron- monger' prices. (CORNICE POLES of every description. Shaped J Biass Bay Window Poles, l^in. thick Is. 6d. per foot. Our Magnificent Furnishing Guide Free by Post All Goods Delivered Free. Please Note Address — WILLIAMS'S, rjUIE JpURNISHING JJMFOBW* 11, lIte 11 S'L CH:nnl-,

■■—. —r:— public announcements. DON'T MISS THE CELEBRATED TREORKY ROYAL MALE VOICE PARTY, AT THE DRILL HALL, MEUTHYB, ON MONDAY NEXT, MARCH 2nd, At 3 and 8 p.m. Admission: Reserved Seats, 4s.; First Scats, 3; Second Seats, 2s.; Third Seats, Is. The handsome Baton presented to the Conductor by the Queen will be on view at the Hall during the interval. The St. David's Church Choir CONVERSAZIONE AND DANCE, THURSDAY, APRIL 9TH, DRILL HALL. T. RHYS LEWIS' BAND. }RC.s MR. 11. FENNELL, MR. HOWV POWELL, MR B. HAVARD, MR. J. FRAYNE, MR. W. THOMAS. DANCING TO COMMENCE AT 3. Tickets, 2s. 6d. 3 s. at Door. W. LLOYD MATTHEWS, See.

Merthyr Tydfil Gas Company. ESTABLISHED 1886. Incorporated by Special Act of Parliament, 25th June, 1868, 31 and 32 Vict., cap. 77. KOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Twenty- Eighth Yearly Ordinary General Meeting of the Proprietors of this Company will be held at the Offices, Merthyr Tydfil, on Till RSDAY, the 27th day of FEBRUAUY instant, for the Election of a Direc- tor and the transaction of the General Business at such meetings authorised. The chair will be taken at Three o clock in the Afternoon precisely. E. B. EVANS, Chairman. AND NOTICE IS HEREBY ALSO GIYEX, that the Books of the Company will be Closed for the Transfer of Stock. from the 21st day of 1 ebruary instant, and will not be Re-opened until after the holding of the said meeting. Bv Order of the Directors, JOHN L. COCKER, Secretary and Manager. Gas Office and Works, Merthyr Tydfil, February 13th, 1896. [3696