The Cambrian

OUR LONDON LETTER [BY OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT.] WEDNESDAY EVENING. Peace still continues—in the headlines of our newspapers. Everywhere else the outlook is gloomy. The Emperor William is hurrying back from Palestine on account of European, complications," the Sultan is delaying the evacuation of Crete because he anticipates a rupture between France and England, the fleets of Russia and Britain in the far East j have been mobilised and are now waiting, ready for action, for the word of command in the Gulf of Pechili, orders have been sent to every part of the globe for British men-of- war to hold themselves in readiness, the South African Parliament and other Colonial assemblies are discussing the means of self- defence, and our own dockyards are still working at such a high pressure, that yesterday only one-half of the electors of Chatham could find time to go to the polling booths. In face of all this, one may, without being an alarmist, fear for the future. M. Blowitz, the Paris correspondent of the Times, who is known to be in touch with the Quai d'Orsai, describes the situation as tc delicate," if not grave, and states that Lord Salisbury's back had been considerably stiffened since the laat Cabinet meeting. We all sincerely hope for peace, but the issue no longer lies with Lord Salisbury or with M. Declasse, but in the squares and boulevard* of Paris. RUSSIA AND FEANCE.. The only guarantees of peace lie in the poverty of Russia and the unpreparedness of France. One day this week a remarkable article appeared in the lunes from the pen of Count Tolstoi, the great Russian novelist and Christian socialist." lbe article was so outspoken that it failed to find a publisher in. Uussift. It uGscribsd. the condition of the Russian peasants, and the reasons why they they remain, in spite of their thrift and low standard of comfort, in a chronic state of destitution. Too much government and too little self- reliance "—these words sum up Tolstoi's indictment. The Government seeks to do everything; no scope is left for individual initiative. It is curious to find a socialist of an advanced type reverting in this way to the principles which would find favour witn the Manchester School in this country. The importance of Tolstoi's evidence at the present juncture is that it throws a Hood of light on the Czar's rescript. With an exhausted treasury, a half-starved and badly- nourished peasantry, with a discontented Poland and uneasy Finland, with a huge, half-digested Empire composed of hetero- geneous tribes and nations, it is no wonder the Autocrat desires peace. France, on the other hand, is rich and powerful, but its navy is rotten, and its army is untried. These facts may make the Autocracy and the Republic pause. GERMANY IN THE EAST. But if there is, as is probable, every likeli- hood that a peaceful solution can be formed on the Fashoda question, why is it that this country is arming to the teeth ? Of course 1 have no special means of information, I can only retail the floating gossip of the town, for what it is worth. For some weeks past, unquiet rumours have been current as to the near proximity of a Balkan conflagration. Some of the* Russian papers have been predicting a rising in Macedonia during the -^next few weeks. The Russian minister at i>c.! ;r*de is accused of having been busy with thes^ c .ts, until he was reprimandeed from St. Petei urg. To-day it is reported that several Hui^rians have murdered a Servian, and as -King Milan is known to favour war, and I xce Ferdinand is anxious to dis- tinguish himself, the incident may prove a convenient excuse for a wa.r. Both. Russia, and France are angry at the pilgrimage of the Kaiser to Jerusalem, and the extension of German influence in the East, which it betokens. Hitherto, France and Russia have been looked up to as the natural protectors of the Eastern Christians. Now however the Kaiser disputes their claim, and German en- terprise is also fast making Turkey a province of the Teutonic Empire. During the visit of the Kaiser to the Sultan, the displeasure of Russia was made manifest by the refusal of the Russian minister to hoist his flag. EGYPT. Fashoda, then, is merely a pretext. France is anxious to raise the whole question of Egypt, but this she dares not do without the backing of Russia. Russia is loth to inter- fere, unless at the same time she sees a chance of seizing Constantinople and regain her old influence in the Near East. Should a distur- bance occur in the Balkans, it is certain that Russia would grasp at the chance. She knows beforehand that she will have to reckon on the opposition of England, perhaps of Ger- many, certainly of Austria. She may there- fore thins that her best chance is to see England embroiled with France,—which would keep Germany also employed. These, however, are only eventualities. It may be that England is arming with the intention of preparing more surely for peace. Or it may be that Lord Salisbury intends to raise the Egyptian question once for all by proclaiming a protectorate over the country of. the Khe- dive. We can at present only conjecture; but it may weil be that before these words corns to be read the situation will have been more clearly explained by a ministerial speech or by the publication of Bluebooks. FRANCE AS A COLONISING POWER. I have often in these columns insisted on the fact that France is not a successful coloniser- M. Decle, a Frenchman who has travelled all over the world, bears interesting testimony to the truth of this statement in this month's Fortnightly. Algiers, he say3, h's.s been in French hands for half a century, yet no exploring expeditions have penetrated further into the interior than 300miles. It is not self-supporting, according to this impartial observer, in Lritish hands it would become a flourishing colony in three years. and its trade even with France would be double what it now is. France has been in a hurry to gobble up hundreds of thousands of African square miles but though she has spent millions, she gains nothing in return. Madagascar has cost her thousands of lives and millions of francs; but Madagascar is seething with discontent,and French colonists —as distinguished from soldiers and officials —are conspicuous by their absence. Even m China, where France had a great chance, Prince Henry of Orleans was compelled to admit that the colonies were a failure. It IS inconceivable, therefore, that any sensible French politician should seriously contem- plate the possibility of a war with England over a pestilential African swamp. If war does break out, it will not be over Fashoda or Bahr-el-Ghazel; these will only be the pre- texts. It will be due to other and far wider reasons. HAROLD FREDERIC. The sad and premature death of poor Harold Frederic has brought to notoriety the pernicious doctrines of the "Christian Scientists. Frederic was a man whom English literature could ill afford to lose, and though his posthumous work Gloria Mundi does not come up to the great expectations of his friends, it is yet a very brilliant and original piece of work. It is not generally known that Frederic was Welsh on his mother's side. He was born, as is known, df poor parents in Utica., and he seems to have inherited his passion for literature and self- culture, as well as his sense of style, from his mother's folk. He settled down in London as the correspondent of the JSen; York Times, and he was a well-known figure a.t the National Liberal and the Savage Clubs. A tew years ago he came up to a W elsh Liberal member at the former club, and asked him if it was true that the Welsh people were getting up a national testimonial to Prince Llewelyn. On hearing that that was so, he said Well, my mother was a Welshwoman, and though I know little of Wales I honour its struggle for nationhood. Harold Frederic s name appears as a contributor of three guiDeas to the Memorial Fund, though alas he never lived to see the statue placed on Llewelyn's grave at Abbey Cwm Hir. MR. WATTS-DUNTON'S ROMANCE. It is characteristic of our anonymous journalism that the name of Mr. Watts- Dunton—perhaps the greatest critic of our time, whose verdict in the Atheneum causes even the most hardened minor poet to tremble —should be almost unknown to the great mass of readers. He is now well on in years, and somevrhat deaf withal. Mr. Swinburne and he have been close friends for years, and being both bachelors, they live together in the same house. The book of the week undoubtedly has been Mr. Watts-Dunton's romance, Aylwin." It was originally written many years ago, but it has been altered and amended over and over again. It tells an impassioned love-story, the heroine being a Welsh girl. Winifred Wynne. As the scene is laid in North Wales, there is of course plenty of local colour, scm* exquisite descriptions of Welsh scenery, some Welsh. songs (which have, I understand, been translated into English by a distinguished Welsh man of letters), and a generous appreciation of the beauty of the fair maids of Wales, the most beautiful maidens in the world." Mr. Watts-Dunton spent much of his time in North Wales in his younger days, but he has not revisited his old haunts for over 30 years. He sees Wales, its scenery, and even its maids," through a halo of tender associations and with the tender sympathy which a man feels for his lost youth. Altogether, "Aylwin," quite apart from 'its originality and its strength and beauty, is well worth the attention of Welsh readers. MISCELLANEOUS Mary Dominic "-an Irish tale by Mrs. Ernest Rhys—was published to-day by Dent and Co. I shall revert to it again next week. —To-night the London Welsh present Mr. T. E. Ellis with some wedding gifts and a cheque, amounting in all to £ 110.—A good d?al of interest was evinced in the case which was heard in the Divisional Court to- day, as to whether the House of Commons is exempt from the licensing laws or not. Mr. Asquith's junior is Mr. Harry Stephen, a member of the South Wales Circuit, and a son of the late Mr. Justice Stephen.-The London County Council decided yesterday to go to Wales for water. It is to be hoped that Welsh towns will guard their own interests, and that we shall not have water, water everywhere," and not a drop for the Welsh- man to drink. Mr. Idris, the Chairman of the Water Committee, is a Welshman—a native of Pembroke Dock.

LICENSED VICTUALLERS' BANQUET. ANNU AL BANQUET-LAS'L' EVENING. SPEECHES BY HON. G. H. ALLSOPP, M.P. SIR J. T. D. LLEWELYN, M.P., SIR JOHN JONES JENKINS, M.P., MAYOR OF SWANSEA, &c. The annual banquet of the Swansea and District Licensed Victuallers' Association was held at the Royal Hotel last (Thursday) evening. The Hon. George H. Allsopp, M.P., presided, and he was supported by Sir John T. D. Llewelyn, Bart., M.P., Sir John Jones Jenkins, M.P., Mr. J. Maxwell Tod Burton. on Trent; Alderman F. Bradford, Major Ferry (Burton), Rev. E. W. Bolney, Mr. T. H. H. Kibbler (Swansea manager Messrs. Allsopp), Mr. T. Harrison Anderson (Messrs. Allsopp Cardiff), Major J. T. Jenkins, 20, Royal- crescent, London Mr. Marsrave (architect), Mr. D. F. Suerue, &c. +he Worshipful Mayor of Swansea. (Mr. J. Aeron Thomas) occupied the vice-chair. Amongst those present were Col. Pike, Captain Sinclair, Mr. H. W. Hansard, Councillors E. G. Protheroe land Morgan Hopkin, Messrs. W. Hopkin James (Swansea United Breweries Ltd)., Gwilym Rees, do., W. F. O'Brien, Blue Bell Hotel, J. C. Campbell, 22, High-street, Swansea, A. Campbell, 11, Carlton-terrace, J. Bainton, Swansea Castle Hotel, Charles Hill, Hector Rees Birchgrove Inn, W. Griffiths, junior, R. W. Jones, Llandilo, H. E. Glover (Hancock and Co., Ltd.), W. E. Williams, do., Harry Bevan, Queen's Head, G. Corfield, Fred. Cressey (Messrs drains and Mclntyre Ltd., and the Coleraine Distillery), H. Bodycombe, Llansamlet, B. H. Wade, F. and A. Winterson, Bristol; Robt. Boucher, Crown Mineral Water Works J. R. Davies. Three Crowns; Geo. H. Mayou, Worthington & Co.; T. H. Gorton. Worthington & Co. James McBryde, Castle Hotel Thomas H. Cheetham, Whyndham Hotel; R. Whitiaker, Prince of Wales: R. G. Falkner, Langland Bay Hotel A. J. Calder, S. Allsopp and Sons, Ltd., Aberdare H. E. Blakeman, S. Allsopp and Son, Ltd., Swansea; R. Pitchford. Railway Inn, Swansea B. Hogart, Swansea United Breweries, Ltd. J. W. Morgan, Ivy Bush Hotel, St. Thomas; C. Pride, Lion Hotel; Hy. Payne, Lord Nelson H. 1. Israel, Pantygwydr Hotel; Wm. Mackie, Florence Hotel, Llanelly: J. Thomas, Colesseum Hotel; Mr. McAllum, Bovega W m. Jones, Three Compasses- Thomas Richards, 5, Park-street; H. Edgminton,Messrs. Boord and Son, London; Wm. Rowlands, Mansel Arms, Oxford-street; Stephen Davey, Windsor Arm-! W. Blackmore, Mile End Inn Capt. S. Dark. Brynymor Hotel; H. Watkins Swansea United Breweries J. Brittain, Allsopp & Sons, Ltd. E. M. Johns, D. Davies, Swansea Old Brewerv; J. S. Marks, E. Geo. Protheroe, George Hellier, Charles Dyke, Albert E. Cloke, William Davies, Mansels Arms William Davies, L. G. Hushes, H. W. and J. Hansard B. Wilde, Vivian Arms Hotel Edwin Howells, Duke Hotel; J. C. Bowen. Brcoklands Hotel; Isaiah Mortis. St. Helen's Inn James Latham, London £ otel; C. Lyons. Robin Hood Hotel; Captain "otters, Belle Vue Vaults Captain Screech, Ship and Castle Hotel H. Williams, Herbert A. Hole, Swansea Old Brewery E. C. Barter, Wassail J"?5, Job5i Reed, Albany Hotel; R. Orchard, Wind-street, Swansea- D. Rees, Recruiting Officer Hotel; Ben Davies, W. J. Bassett, York Hotel Georgre Thomas. James H. Hone, Red Cow Hotel; W. Williams, Bank Hotel; J. D. Thomas. Red House Hotel, St. Thomes; M. McGrath, Duke Hotel, Morriston R. Hum, A. Hum J• k- .Calmer, Palmer and Co. Henry Cave, Bay » lew Hotel: John Ritchie, Dunville and Co., Ltd., Belfast; Forrest J. Jones, Hafod Cave, Bay » lew Hotel; John Ritchie, Dunville and Co., Ltd., Belfast; Forrest J. Jones, Hafod Inn M. Faulkner Langland Bay Hotel. The president of the Swansea Licensed Vic- tuallers' Association 13 Mr. H. J. israel, Mr. J. Lathom (vice-president), Mr. Aid. F. Bradford, Councillor V. lJavies, and Mr. Henry Payne (trustees). L-ommittee 'Messrs. J. H. j Jenkins, Exeter Hotel; F. Gamag-e, Cardiff Arms Capt. J. Peters, Belle Vuo Vaulta Capt. Screech, Ship and Castle Hotel; Messrs. C. Pride, Lion Hotel; Hopkin Thomas. Midland Hotel otephen Davey Windsor Arms R. Pitchford, Ran way Hotel; W. Blackmore, Mile End Inn B. R. Elston, W. Blackmore, Mile End Inn B. R. Elston, Cyprus Hotel; 1. Morris, St. Helen s Inn; B. Wylde, Vivian Arms Hotel; Wm. Jones, Three Compasses: R. E. Jones, Mackworth Hotel; Lyons, Robin Hood Hotel Edwin Howells, Duke Hotel: T. H. Cheetham, Whyndham Hotel; R. Whittaker, Prince of Wales Hotel Castleman, Waterloo Stores; J. C. Bowen, Brooklands Hotel; Mr. R. T. Leyson, solicitor Mr. John F. Harvey, A.C.A., auditor Mr. T. H. S. Ciark, 24, Helen's-road, secretary. The Chairman submitted the u-ual loyal patriotic toasts, which were drunk with musical honours. Sir J. T. D. Llewelyn, M.P., submitted" The Forces Spiritual and Temporal," Rev. E. W. Boiney, Col. Pike and Major Ferry responding. The spcretary (Mr. Clark), read letters regrett- ing inability to attend from several gentlemen including one from Mr. J. C. Fowler (stipendary) Mr. Fowler wrote that in view of his position on the Bench it were best that he did not attend the banquet—a decision he came to with much regret. Mr. LI. R. Bowen sang The Soldier's Song in capital style. The Houses of Parliament was appropri- ately proposed by Councillor Sinclair, in the absence of Sir Robert Morris. In responding, Sir John Llewelyn fa.id the House of Commons was an example for the whole world. With regard to the Government's policy, he was pleased to say that under the control of Mr. Chamberlain there had been not only an approach towards Colonial Federation, but our relations with the United States had been very materially improved. (Applause.) Sir John Jones Jenkins, M.P., who was cor. dially applauded, also responded. Referring to the disputj with France, he said he had never. looked upon the crisis—perhap3 he was not sufficiently versed in our relations with France— as being a very acute or dangerous one. At the head of the English Government we had a Foreign Minister—with whom he was not always in agreement—who was second to none this Kingdom had seen. He knew exactly what he wanted he had the power of putting his views for- ward in a uonciee and unmislakeable way, and he had the courage of his convictions. Our friends in France knew that well. He (Sir John) had been somewhat pained at the attitude adopted by some of our leading newspapers in regard to the French dispute. He did not believe there would be war with France. Our interests—our com- mercial interests especially—were mutual, and they would work against war. Mr. W. B. Gallaher sang" The Auld Plaid Shawl." Mr. Maxwell Todd (Burton) submitted "The To.vn of Swansea: Its Public Bodies and Its Trade." The Mayor.who was enthusiastically applauded, responded in a brief, practical and interesting speech. He referred to Swansea's growth, her present position and future prospects. The port had excellent accommodation for shipping, and the Harbour Trust were about to provide more. There were geographical advantages which pointed to Swansea's future prosperity. Referring to the recent municipal election, the Mayor said he much regretted that two of the most intelligent and progressive members of the Council had been rejected by the burgesses. Morriston bad given the cold shoulder to a gentluman who had the capacity, the means, the influence and the desire to do well for the town. Mr. W. H. Edwards and Mr. F. Rocke were very capable and useful members, and he keenly regretted their defeat. With regard to the system in vogue in regard to the election of Aldermen, the Mayor said it was a rotten system. Councillors should not be elected Aldermen b cause of length of service alone, but because of good and useful work in the interests of the rate- payers. Men of pluck, capital and intelligence were needed, not only to improve our municipal government, but also to enhance our commercial interests. (Applause). Councillor Sinclair also responded, and said that Swansea had lost thousands of pounds during the past year in consequence of the Corporation "cards" being shown to opposing parties. The toast of the evening, Success to the Swansea and District Licensed Victuallers' and Beer Sellers' Association," was submitted by the Hon. George Allsopp, M.P. He said:— You, gentlemen, expressed a desire and a very strong kindly feeling was displayed that a member of our House bearing the name, should take the chair at your anniversary dinner, and I take it as a great and high compliment to be allowed the privilege of again presiding after a lapse of some years. I have a very happy recollection of the great kindness and enthusiasm displayed on the occasion of my then coming to inaugurate and support the interests of this great and powerful society. Well, my friends, I do not know that there is anything very fresh going on just now as regards your trade. The same old fads, cranks, and grievances are being aired, and nearly worn threadbare by this time. The teetotaller is still sitting on the magisterial bench, flaunting his bit of blue ribbon, adjudicating on licensing cases, whereas men like myself are debarred because we are connected with the brewing trade. Surely the granting of licenses should be entrusted to, and left in, the hands of impartial people. No brewer can adjudicate in cases before Licensing Courts but in the same way every teetotaller, or avowed en.my of the trade, should be debarred in fair justice from sitting on the bench. The alterations of Mr. Gladstone in respect to the Licensing laws were most unfair, and as to the compensation for a license, if it be taken away through no fault ef the holder, due compensation should be awarded, and this is now generally admitted except by a handful of rabid prohibitionists.—1 ne^d not take up your time by again gotogr over tie arguments ajfainst WE-Ish Sunday Closing, an unjust law, which was undoubtedly intended to deprive the working man of his Sunday dinner and supper beer. But has it had that effect ? You know quite well that if someone says to a sturdy Englishman (or Welshman either) "You shall not," something within him immediately replies "I shall," and so it came to pass that when this law came into operation, steps were at once taken to evade it, and the establishment of illicit so-called Clubs" and endless private drinking was the result. Sir Wilfred Lawson, the Apostle of Temperance, appears to have turned his attention of late to the "horrors of war," as you may have noticed from the reports of his recent speech at Carlisle. It would appear from his re- marks that the Egyptian campaign was quite a mistake—that the poor dear Dervishes (the cruel, savage murderers who had for so long oppressed and outraged millions of their fellow creatures)—should have been pitied and coddled instead of being swept off the face of the earth, as they so richly deserved. His views on this subject seem to be as absurd and un-English as are his notions about the Licensing Laws. With reference to the Royal Commission, from the evidence which has been given up to the present, it is pretty clear that we need not fear the report of the Commission, and I am of opinion that the trade will come out of the ordeal much more favourably than many of its opponents expected. I do not see any reason for disquietude, nor do I apprehend any great or sweeping changes in our licensing system which, on the whole, has worked very well. The hundrpd-and-one different plans sug- gested have oeen considered, but none of them have stood the test of adverse criticism. We are all engaged in a fair and legitimate business, and I believe that you, gentlemen, do your best to conduct that business in a fair and honest way but we have to submit to a good deal of abuse and opposition at the hands ef a few extreme and fanatical enthusiasts. They have tried in every possible way to injure our trade, but ours is a necessary business, and one which will exist as long as the world lasts. In spite of what they say there is no sin in drink. It is only the excess of it which should be dis- couraged by all reasonable and fair means. Apropos of taking the pledge, four young fellows in a town where I come from, who had signed it, and not knowing or realising thq solemnity of an oath, thought it a good joke, turned down a back street, tossed their hats up in the air and said, Let's go and have a drink on it." The deluded and deluding cocoa party are still getting up signatures for their case. Let them agitate to get good beer (and of course you can't expect me not to say Allsopps). And so let the poor man have his beer, and on a Sunday, too. All in moderation, their vows were male for them at their baptism and teach them their duty from the Church Catechism. Gentlemen. I fear I am not a very good pleader or beggar, but I do ask you to open your hearts and let go the purse-strings to-night, and let me appeal also to the sense of what is right that tho-e who are labouring in the cause should be well backed and supported, and I have pleasure in giving, for S. Allsopp and Sons, Ltd., the sum of fitty guineas. (Loud applause.) Mr. H. J. Israel (president). Mr. J. Latham (vice-president), and Aid. F. Bradford (trustee), the latter of whom met with a most cordial reception, responded, Mr. Bradford made some valuable suggestions in the course of a practical and encouraging speech. The 'Hon. George Allsopp had devoted a longer time in Swansea then he had previously done, and he (Mr. Bradford) had experienced much pleasure in taking him round the town district. Mr. J. H. Jenkins submitted "The Honorary Subscribers and Visitors," Mr. Jenkins (Tre- degar) responding. The Mayor of Swansea, in proposing The Chairman," spoke of the uprightness, straight- forwardness and generosity of Messrs. Allsopp and Co while be made some practical remarks anent the liquor trade, and strongly urged upon his hearers to strive to be honest in all their dealings. The toast was drunk with musical honours, the company singing "He's a jolly good fellow." In responding, the Hon. Geo. Allsopp said it would be Sw ansea s loss when the Mayor (Mr. J. Aeron Thomas) retired from the civic chair. (Loud applause.) He had been much struck with what he had seen in Swansea, that day, thanks to the kindness of hIs friend, Aid. Bradford Other toasts followed. During the evening Mr. W. F. Hulley's band discoursed some choice mnsic.

THE CRAY WAfER WORKS. THE MAYORESS CUTS THE FIRST SOD. IN rERESTING CEREMONY.— YESTERDAY. THE PROGRESS OF THE WORK. The members of the Swansea Corporation who ) travelled to Cray yesterday to take part in the ceremony of cutting the first sod, came back convinced that the Cray valley was one of the best places in the country for water. Not that it was raining. The evidences were all under foot. Overhead the sun shone brilliantly, obscured only now and again by black rain-clouds scudding across the sky, and tempering the sharp invigorating air of the Breconshire mountains. A large party, mainly members of the Corpora- tion, accepted the invitation of the Mayor, and left the Midland Station at 10.20 on Thursday morning. An hourl or so later the train carried them close by the scene of operations. But on and on the train went until a primitive little station was reached in a high altitude. Here the party alighted and proceeded, some in brakes and others on foot, in the direction of the Corpora- tion's ground, nearly two miles distant. The pure and bracing mountain air was as greatly enjoyed as anything. At the Cray, the contractors, Messrs. Paterson and Sons, had made very comfortable arrangements for the visitors, the sodden ground of the mountain-side being laid with planks. Not far from the main road, and on the site of the acoess road to the reservoir, the party halted, and the interesting ceremony of cutting the first sod was performed by the Mayoress (Mrs. Aerou. Thomas). The party consisted of the Mayor and Mayoress, the Mayor and Mayoress-elect (Mr. and Mrs. Richard Martin), Aldermen Dd. Harris, Mayne, M. Tutton, Gwilym Morgan, Mr. R. H. Wyrill (Boro' Engineer) and Mrs. Wyrill, Mr. Hutton (deputy-engineer), Mr. Ernest Perkins, Mr. Barnett (resident engineer) and Mrs. Barnett, Mr. McConnel (contractors' engineer), Mr. J. P^te".on. Mr. Paterson, Junr., Mr. W. Watkins (vice-chairman of the Water Committee), Councillors Howel Watkins, Wm. Williams> J- H. Lee, Rees Jones, John Tucker, Roger Thomas, W. W. Abraham, Griffith Davies, John akidmore, W. H. Spring, Wm. Evans, John Griffiths, James Jones, E. G. Protheroe, Morgan HopJriQ. Captain Thomas (deputy Chiet Constable), Mr. Jevons (deputy Town Clerk), Jar. l). C. John, Mr. A. Oborn (assistant engineer), Mr. Griffith Thomas (Chair- man Swansea Harbour Truat), Mr. A. O. Schenk (Harbour Engineer), Dr. Eben. Davies (Medical Officer of Health), Mr. G. Bransby Williams, Mr. Thomas, the Rev. Prebendary Garnons Williams, Miss Williams> Mr. McTurk, Mr. Craig (assistant engineer), Dr. Jones (Senny Bridge), the Rev. Ogwen Davies, Mr. Deer (Rio Tinto Copper works), Mr. Isaacs (architect), Mr. W. Joseph (surveyor), Mr. Wm. Williams (architect), and others. Mr. Paterson, junr., here presented the Mayoress witn a magnificent si|Tor Spade on behalf of his rm, and the Mayoress deposited the first sod in a spacious wheelbarrow. The ice, or, more correctly speaking, the earth, having thus been broken, the members of the party proceeded to inspect the works. From the slope where the sod was cut, the view is ma-nificglnt. Far away towards the north- west tne misty peaks of the Van mountaius rise into the sky, enveloped now and again by clouds which threaten the party with a drenching. To the southward the old red sandstone peak of Van Gyhiryoh rises siarp and lfcely against the sky line. We look down mto a valley formed by nearer, less pretentious hills, but hills destined in the future to be at least as useful as Van Gyhu-yc proved when his aspiring top saved the silica quarries ot Penwylit from the worst effects of tne glacier. Below us the two principal streams, Gyhiryoh and Blaencray, swollen by recen floods, hop merrily over the red sandstone beds at the foot of the hill, in 1 ey disappear round the corner to volume of the Cray before its junction with the Usk. Into these streamlets numerous smaller ones emptied themselves, while here and there cou be seen a beautiful spring bubbling to the surface. Iq fact) betwe(P £ and the bro k mountain opposite and under the darJf ]a. °]T °f the Bwlch, the whole valley to full of water, clear as crystal. Beneath the frowniUg hiil at our back, wmch is between 1,200 and 1,300 feet above the sea-level, the Gyhirych COInes tumbling down over the side of the rock, making a very pretty Little wsLter-fall with **0oka of brown and crannies of green fern. Here the MoTurks have their sheep-washing-an important festival which lasts a days. To make steps down to the pool below the fau, they or their pre- decessors phioed saorilegioua hands Qn Druidical stones once resting on yonder summit, and reduced them to tbe base u^es of sheep-washing. If we remember V^ Jac^Je °1(1 Welsh historian has identified Jtoaes, to-day desecrated by the careless ^et ° Mr. McTurk's thoughtless myrmidons, as M t r Peder Gaivres (the stones of the Four ) which were once ranged on the mOUP ln the same order as the Pleiades. A eon,.036^ ^aa been made which will prevent of the reservoir during the dayi3 ° ep-washing, and it is quite possible that as table place will be elsewhere provided Mr. Mclu k. In time of flood the Gyhirych is da and 3 feet deep. At this altitude, ve^ ODDed scarce and stunted, the turf is close- PP he hedges are low, and of trees there art> next to none. Here and there the coarse brown .ei*:nil shows through the holes ot berth S ">ent of green. But the air is magnificent, lending a glow of health to the palest cheek and elasticity to the feeblest step. The sturdy 8 of the mountains will form the bank8 0 Q reaervoir on the right and lett facing thron' v!°^ ^own the bed will be the outlet through the tunnel, and at the bottom there e the dam stoppmg the water from running away as it now does the Cray and the Usk. The party to the valley, and they soon became the resources of Cray. There w»s s^cely a dry spot on the hills. Water was ev y e jf no^ -n bubbling brooks, then in sheets. a.8 not pleasant walking, but the members ro„|i0rPor°tion who ventured on the journey repaid by what they saw. One of the fir» °f activity met with was the making ot yne new road instead of the old parish road which ran at the foot of the valley. An idea of the ? ° and extent of the dam can be gather the excavations that have recently if. :ance^- In some places the bed-rock, where reaohJri far below the surface, has already belln reached. Not far from the site of the clan, and at perhaps the lowest place in the reservoir, the t as already been commenced -18 yards out ot 4 770 Xhe tunnel faag tQ be made through exceptionally ^ard rocb) with her0 and there, perha.p a be^ 0f soft material. The whole of the geol.^al Ration from Penwyllt to the northward is Old^ Red Sandstone, and the tunnel has to be made through the blue beds of this formation. ve the mouth of the tunnel, the dam will rise to a height of a hundred feet, making a water area 0t loo acres, with a maximum depth ot 100 feet. Thus the reservoir will hold a thousand milhoa gallons, and ths capacity of the watersheds to collect this enormous quantity may be gauged from the fact that with a record rainfall of from two to three inches the reservoir can be filled, approximately, in two days.. On the ground tnat in a few years will be buried under water, quarrying and stone-crush- ing operations are going on the native stone being of particularly good quality. Outside the dam a little township 0f corrugated iron and brick huts is raP^dly springing up, and it was in this portion ot the work, in the pro- vision of accommodation and of material and moral comforts for the hundreds of men who will soon be employed on the work, that the members of the Corporation evinced the greatest interest yesterday. Here we could gam some id'!a of the thoroughness with which Mr. ihomas Freeman and the Water and Sewers Committee have gone about their work. The dry-store, well stocked with the best of everything, the spacious, com- fortably-fitted canteen, the cellars, the bake- house, the coffee-room, and the jug ancj bottle department, all these when completed will be an admira-ble piece of work. Already they are a credit to the manager, Mr. Win. Richards. Then there are the living rooms, which possess every comfort for those who will have to live in that bleak spot during the winter months.^ Behind the work- men's huts, the Corporation will erect the mission room, and when this and other things are completed it cannot be said that the Swansea Corporation has neglected the lot of the navvy. The workmen's huts will be comfortable little homes, and there is no reason why a model though temporary community should not spring up around Cray within the next few years. THE LUNCHEON. After inspecting the works, the company ad- journed to the office of the resident engineer, where they were entertained to luncheon by the Mayor. The catering was entrusted to Messrs. J. Williams and Co High-street, Brecon, and the rechn-che luncheon which was provided did their establishment ample credit. The following was the menu—and, needless to say, the luncheon was greatly enjoyed by appetites accentuated by the I bracing1 air of the Brecon mountains SOUP Ox Tail. REMOVES REMOVES: Sirloin of Beef. Haunch Matton. Veal and Ham Pies. Pigeon Pies. Roast Chickens. York Ham. Ox Tongue. Lobster Salad. Dressed Salad. swrnsTS: Apple Tart and Cream. Cheese Cake and Jam Tart. Wine Jellies. Blanc Mange. Celery. Cheese. Biscuits. After luncheon the Mayor submitted The Queen remarking that they had come to Cray that day to mark an event of some importance to Swansea. It was of importance to the extent that Swansea would have to pay for it; and he hoped that before long the town would materially benefit from the undertaking. Upon such an occasion it was well to remember that we lived in a country which was proud of its Queen and of the constitution by which we enjoyed the greatest benefits of municipal control. (Applause.) The toast having been musically honoured, Canon Garnons Williams proposed the health of the Mayor and Mayoress (Mr. and Mrs. Aeron Thomas) and the Mayor and Mayoress-elect (Mr. and Mrs. Rd. Martin). Mr. Williams said it had been great pleasure to him within the last few weeks to have met the Mayor and other members of the Corporation of Swansea on several inter- esting occasions. He was ohairman of the bench of magistrates that granted the licence for the canteen and he was also chairman of the County licensing committee that confirmed it. It had gratified him very much to note the great care and desire of the Mayor and the authorities of Swansea, that the men employed on the works should have proper moral and religious care, and that their recreation should be looked atter. (Hear, hear.) He most I. earnestly hoped that the wishes of the Corpora- tion would be successfully carried out. (Ap- plause.) It had given him very great pleasure— and he considered it an honour—to be present at the reception given to the Archbishop of Canterbury by the Mayor of Swansea. When the last Archbishop came to Swansea — he thought it was Archbishop Tait—at the time of the Church Congress many years ago, the chief magistrate of Swansea was a medical gentleman, andby a strange power possessed by theArchbishop of Canterbury, that Mayor was created an M.D. The Archbishop also had powers to confer the degree of D.D. He did not know whether the present Mayor of Swansea aspired to that honour or not; but at any rate there were other honours that might be given to the Mayor and Mayoress of Swansea. Why should there not be a Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress in Wales—(applause) —as well as in London and other towns. He was sure that all who witnessed the graceful manner in which the Mayoress had performed her duties that day would wish to see her the Lady Mayoress of Wales. (Applause.) He could not help thinking, when he saw that good lady looking over the beautiful valley that was soon to become a lake, of Longfellow's "Hiawatha," and the heroine with the lovely name, '"Minnehaha," laughing water. He hoped what had been begun tnat day would be of great benefit to Swansea. He was glad that they had some of their Beconshire waters in the great Welsh town of Swansea. He had an idea that the Welsh waters should be for Welsh towns and he did not look forward with any very great pleasure to the idea of London taking away the water from Wales, (Hear, hear). In any case, he should like first to see the teaming populations of the adjoming counties of Glamorgan and Monmouth satisfied. As a Breconshire man, he was delighted to give tiiat- toast. (Applause). The toast was enthusiastically drunk. The Mayor, responding, on behalf of the Mayoress and himself, thanked Canon William. especially for his approval of the step they had taken lately in providing accommodation for the moral, and, he hoped, for the convivial welfare of the navvies that were to be employed in that work. They approached the Bench with some fear, and trembling, but when the magistrates were convinced that they had no selfish or mercenary object in view they very soon intimated that the application would be very favourably received. His Worship hoped the departure they had made —though it was certainly following Birmingham —from the ordinary mode of providing people with the necessaries of life would prove advantageous and would be followed by many people later on. He had also to thank the members of the Corporation for their presence, and for the honour they had conferred upon his wife in giving her the privilege of cutting the first sod of that important work. (Applause). He also wished to acknowledge, and that with sincere gratitude, his sense of appreciation of the contractors for the very handsome spade they had presented to the Mayoress. (Applause). As long as they lived it would be a pleasure to look at that handsome gift, and when they were called away he hoped it would go down as a slight token of the kindness of the people of the past towards the mother of some who, he hoped, would live afterwards. In public life they had a good many things that they had reason to be gratetul for. On the other hand, they had a good many kicks. (Laughter). But whatever might be the drawbacks, the fact that occasionally an honour ot that sort was conferred upon a public man by acknow- ledging his better half, would go a long way towards making up for them. (Hear, hear.) They were there that day to formally commence a very important undertaking. He hoped it would go through successfully, and that the contractors would do it so well that there would be no leakage—(hear, hear)—that, as an eminent engineer said of another embank- ment, it would last until the crack of doom. This he was certain of, that there was no greater obligation upon municipal government than to provide the community with a pure and ample supply of water. That was the first and bounden duty. He believed the revenue to be ultimately derived from the Cray Works would make it a remunerative investment. In the past Swansea had suffered considerably from mistakes in the matter ot water supply but he hoped in the future the supply would be ample and pure, and when the prosperity which was bound to come reached Swansea, future generations would approve of the reservoir which was to be built at Cray. (Applause.) He supposed that was the last occasion upon which he would address them as Mayor, and he would like to say that during his year of office he had been most invariably hand- somely treated—though there were exceptions. (Laughter.) He would look back upon his Mayoralty with very pleasant recollections, more pleasant than any others in his life. (Applause.) I' Mr. Richard Martin (the Mayor-elect), respond- ing on behalf of the Mayoress-elect and himself, remarked upon the good weathar with which the ceremony bad been favoured. But even if it had been raining as it did on Wednesday, he should have come up. He should not have allowed the ceremony of cutting the first sod to have passed without being present. Io wss the sequence to a day he would always remember, when he visited the spot first. It was in company with a gentleman who, unfortunately they had lost, the late Alderman James Naysmith. He (Mr. Naysmith) had conceived the notion that that was the spot for Swansea's future water supply. He asked him (Mr. Martin) to go up and see the spot, and he toll him that he had not broached the subject to anyone else. He wanted his opinion first. When he (Mr. Martin) went up it struck him at once that it was an ideal gathering ground for the water supply of Swansea. He was, therefore, glad to be present to see the first public function of carrying out a work that would satisfy the wants of Swansea for many years to come. They had come to the right spot. If they had been up there on Wednesday— (laughter)—it would have been proved to them. They had entered into a great speculation; but it was for an ample supply of pure water. That we had not got, and no cost was too great to provide everyone in Swansea with it. Until that was done their duty as a Corporation was not fulfilled. (Applause.) Mr. William Watkins, the vice chairman of the Water and Sewers Committee, pro- posed the toast of "The Contractors." At the outset, Mr. Watkins expressed his regret on behalf of Mr. Thomas Freeman, Chairman of the Water and Sewers Committee, for the absence of the latter, who was confined to his home with a cold. He was supposed to propose the toast of the contractors, and by an old contractor himself, if it were possiblo to say anything hard about contractors, they must not expect him to say it. (Laughter). He had not had much to do with the contractors yet, but the little he had had proved to him in the first place that they were Scotchmen and rather canny. (Laughter.) That was a proof, he thought, that they had selected contractors who were likely to render them a fair amount of work for the money they were going to pay them. He was not going to say anything bad of engineers but he had always thought it would be a good thing if engineers commenced their careers by being contractors. They would then be a little more merciful towards them. Specifications—the Mayor would pardon him for saying so—were something like deeds, more words than were required. If every engineer and architect insisted on the work being carried out to the letter of the specifications he thought there would scarcely be a solvent contractor in the United Kingdom. (Laughter.) He was going to recommend the contractor to try to agree with the engineers. On the other hand, he strongly advised the engineers to be on good terms with the contractors, because, he might tell them, if a contractor was determined to cheat them he would do it. (Loud laughter.) Mr. J. Paterson (principal of the firm of J. Paterson and Sons) responded and said he w^s glad the initial ceremony had been so splendidly carried out. The next time the Corporation ot Swansea came to view the ground there would be more to look at. Mr. Watkins had struck a very fine key-note, that of good fellowship with the engineers and good friendship with the Water Committee, and as head of the firm of John Paterson and Sons, be would endeavour to maintain the very best relationships. (Ap- plause.) Mr. Paterson, Junr., who has^charge of the work at the Cray, also responded. After a song, Hearts of Oak," by Councillor Wm. Williams, The ex-Mf yor (Mr. Howel Watkins) proposed the health of the Engineer. A student once asked an old painter what he mixed b a colours with, and the reply was, Brains, air, biaina," Whatever may have been said of the other toasts, be rose to propose the toast of brains. (Hear, hear.) There was one important sense in which it could be said to be complete. It was complete in the mind of Mr. Wyrill. (Hear, hear.) He had thought it out and studied it month after month, and year after year. When he saw the rolls of plans, he thought how much they indicated of the thought and intelligence and capacity of the Borough Engineer. (Applause.) There was an old saying that the Queen never went out to perform a public ceremony without the sun shining upon her; and he was glad to see that the queen of Abertawe—(applause)—had brought a very successful year to such a happy close. (Applause.) Mr. Wyrill, in returning thanks, said it was gratifying to „him to find such a kindly feeling at that stage of the work. At the same time, it was the wrong moment to make a speech from an engineering point of view. He lilted to see the work when finished. They had heard a great deal more on a previous occasion about a last trump, about the work being of bad standing power, and so on, that it should act as a deterrent to long and jubilant speeches at so early a stage. But he eould assure them that the utmost thought would be put to the work, and he felt sure with the combined talent, which consisted of Scotch, Welsh, Irish and English, that they might rely upon a successful result. At any rate, they would attain that result if they continued in the workmanlike way in which the contractors were doing their work. They liked to do the work well, making sure that nothing would have to be done a second time. (Applause.) 1 l.e Mayor proposed "The Visitors," and express*! pleasure at seeing Mr. Yourdi, the visiting engineer of the Birmingham Water Works at Rhayader, present. When a sub- committee of the Swansea Corporation visited Rhayader, they bad a very hearty reception at the hands ot Mr. Yourdi, who placed his train at their service, and accompanied them during the whole day and gave them very valuable assistance. He also noticed with pleasure the presence of Mr. Morgan Thomas, a large landed proprietor, and Mr. Mciurk. it was to their interests that they should live agxeeably as neighbours. (Hear, hear.) Mr. Yourdi, in reply, said they had seen the inauguration ot a very large undertaking, and he might say that he knew that the work was in the hands of very capable men. Mr. Morgan Thomas also replied and expressed the hope that the undertaking would prove successful, and that the Swansea Corporation would not have cause to regret that they came to Breconshire for water. They had not come a moment too soon, for if they had been later other large towns might have secured it, and as Welsh- men, the Breconshire people preferred that Welsh towns should havw it. (Hear, hear.) Mr. McTurk assured them that there was an ample supply of water at Cray, and lif the town should ever find it short by reason of growth, all they had to do was to put another ten feet to the embankment. For hie own part ne. would always be ready to meet the Corporation of Swansea in the best spirit. (Applause.) Mr. Griffith Thomas (the Chairman of the Swansea Harbour Trust) also responded. He congratulated the Corporation upon the inaugura- tion of a splendid work. If the town of Swansea was going to increase, as they beliwred it would, there was nothing of greater importance than a good water supply, and he was satisfied that there was such a supply at Cray. He did not agree with a lot of the sallies delivered at the Corporation of Swansea. They were doing a great work, and ke thought the Cray scheme was the greatest of its works. No doubt they should have the least possible rates but on the other hand pro- gress was greatly required in these days, and he was certain that for the future of Swansea there was a great store. He believed they would see a great many works from the Midlands coming to the seaboard shortly. (Applause). The company then returned to the station whence the special train conveyed them back to Swansea after a most enjoyable and useful day. ORIGIN OF THE CRAY SCHEME. The Cray scheme, it is interesting to recall, was first mooted about even years ago. At that time the Cor-poration were considerably exercised about the question of additional water supply. After looking about in many directions the late Alderman Naysmith came to the rescue of the town with the admirable suggestion that Swansea should seek its supply in the valley of the Cray, in Breconshire. Mr. Naysmith was in the habit of fishing in this neighbourhood, and, like every good disciple of Isaac Walton, had observed the quality and purity of the water. Mr. Wyrill provided ample data fully bearing out the favourable statements of Mr. Naysmith. Eminent engineers, such as Mr. Abnerthy and Mr. Hill, were called in, and as they confirmed Alderman Naysmith and Mr. Wyrill, a Bill was promoted in Parliament empowering the Corporation to spend £270,000 on the scheme. Considerable opposition was offered, especially by the Fisheries Board, but in June, 1892, the Bill received the Royal assent. The chairman of the committee during these years, and for some considerable time after, was Mr. R. Martin, the Mayor-Elect, and it was due to his masterly presentation of the case that a scheme, involving an expenditure of over a quarter of a million sterling, received such general support in the Council. The scheme may be naturally divided into four parts—viz.: the reservoir, the dam, the tunnel, and the pipe track. On the first two about £150,000 will be expended, on the tunnel £50,000, and on the pipe track £60,000. Having regard, however, to certain further charges, not contemplated when the original estimates were made out, it is expected that the total expenditure will not fall far short of £300,000. THE DAM AND THE TUNNEL. The dam will be 1,400 feet long and 100 feet in depth, at the deepest part, while the width will be about 70 feet. The wall will arch slightly out towards the reservoir, and will be built of what is popularly described as concrete, but what is more properly, rubble masonry. This is material out of which some of the great dams of the king- dom are constructed, such as that of the Vyrnwy works, and those of Birmingham at Rhayader. The tunnel will run from the bottom of the reservoir under Bwlch, coming out in the Swansea Valley—a total length of 2i miles. It will be 7 feet in diameter and, except where it penetrates the rock, will be lined with brick. The greatest distance from the surface of the land will be immediately above Bwlcb, where the tunnel is 360 feet under ground. When the water issues at Nantywyth—a couple of miles from Madame Patti's castle, it will flow in the open for a short distance, through land purchased by the Corpora- tion, and then run into the pipes which will convey it to Swansea. In speaking of the Cray reservoir as being 1,000 feet above the sea-level, a better idea of what this means may be given by saying that it represents a heignt almost as great again as that of Town Hill, which at its highest point is only 575 feet above the sea-level. The distance from the reservoir to Swansea is about 26 miles, so that deducting the 2i miles of tunnel, there will be pipinff for over 23 miles. The water may be supplied en route to villages like Abercrave, Ystradgynlais, Ystal.vfera, Glais, Pontardawe, and Clydach. When it reaches Swansea the pressure will be such that it will be impossible to deliver the water straight into the present mains, and it is. therefore, intended to erect a covered service reservoir at Town Hill. The pipe-track will be sufficient for the conveyance of three million gallons per day- half the available quantity. The first year of the 20th century will probably be waning before the householders of Swansea will be able to taste a drop of Cray water.

HOLY TRINITY CHURCH CONVERSAZIONE. The annual conversazione in connection with Holy Trinity Church, held last (Thursday) even- ing at the Albert Hall, turned out a complete social success. The hall presented a pleasing appearance, having been decorated with banner- ettes. drapery, &c by Messrs. Ben Evans and Co., Ltd., and with flowers by Messrs. Parsons and Co. There was a very good attendance, the room being crowded. Tea was on the tables from 6 to 7.30, and the tables were presided over by the following- ladies :—Mrs. J. A. Harriss, Mrs. R- Nash, Mrs. Cavill, Miss Charles, Miss Dowle Jones, Miss Chalk, Mrs. Hayes, Mrs. Jones-Powell, Mrs, Jenkin Jones, Mrs. Herschel Jones, Mrs. Rutherford, Miss Simpson, Mrs. Eley, Mrs. Tazewell, Miss Symons, and Mrs. J. Jenkin. Subsequently, the following interesting programme was gone through and much enjoyed Part 1: Morceau de Genre Margherita" (Masoheroni), Mr. Hulley's Orchestral Band; song, I fear no foe" (Pinsuti), Mr. Josiah Thomas; part song, "Blanche" (F. Kucken), the Choir; son", Mrs. Horatio Watkins; harp solo, Welsh Melodies," Miss Fricker song, "Queen of the Earth" (Pinsu'i), Rev. G. P. Gahriat; selection, The Geisha (Sidney Jones), the band humorous song, Mr. Campbell Thomas. —Part 2 Overture, Poet a Peasant (Suppe), | the band; son?, "Caller Herrin' Mi-s Alice Williams, R.C.M.; harp solo, Miss Fricker choral ballad, "The Miller's Wooing" (Eaton raning), the choir; recitation, Mr. W. H. Jones; march, "Whitehall" (Kottaun), the band; humorous song. Mr. Campell Thomas; "God save the Queen." Mr. Ernest Ruddell, organist of Hol) Trinity Church, accompanied with his usual taste and ability. Mr. W. F. Hulley's admirable orchestral band played selections while tea was on the tables. The several items of the programme were rendered with taste and precision, and reflected much credit on the artistes.

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Â. W. Johnson, STOCK AND SHARE BROKER, 10394] 57, WIND STREET, SWANSEA. Telegrams—ORNA TE, Swansea. National Telephone 21 Agent for the Castle Line" to South Africa. DAVIES AND B AEREE, STOCK AND SHARE BROKERS, 56, WIND-STREET, SWANSEA. Telegrams. "Discretion" Telephone No. 113. BUYERS^— £ '00 Barry Deferred—quote lowest; £ 1,030 Barry 5 p.c.- Rhondda Deb.; £ 500 Ben Evans Deb. 20 Weaver and Co. Old Prefa. at 11; 275 Wassaus at 33s^9d.; iuO Tamsoos at 2<s. 9d. SJSIXEKS.—15 Buckleys Pre-Prefs. at loi; 7 Weavers New Prefs.; 3 Rhondda Old Prefs.; £ 28 do. Deb.; 5 Capital and Counties Banks 100 Anderson Cox and Co. Shares; 25 Swansea and Mumbles Railway Prefs. 5U Metropolitan Banks.

THE CWMBWRLA WORKS.—It is now stated on the authority of Mr. Bond, that men will be put on to make the necessary repairs at Cwmbwrla. Works at once, and that a satis- factory arrangement as regards wages has been made with the tinplaters, which gives an equivalent to 20 to 22i per cent. off the list of 1874. LONDON AND NORTH WESTERN RAILWAY AMBULANCE ASSOCIATION.—The Wor,hipful Mayor of Swansea on Sunday morning presented certificates to the successful candidates in connection with the London and North Western Railway Swansea Branch of the St. John's Ambulance Association, at the Agricultural Hall, St. Helen's-road. Mr. Fred. Smith (district superintendent of the Company) presided, being supported by Mr. J. B. Bailey (assistant superintendent), Mr. Hy. McDonnell (manager of Mes-rs. Weaver & Co.), Dr. Reid (who conducted the class in question), Mr. R. J. Lendrum (the energetic secretary. e Mayor gave some kindly advice to the ga ri g of railway servants present, and then presented certificates to the following f5- Bailey, David Morgan, Ed. Lewis, o <■ David Berickstrop, James p^ew Thomas, W. A. Jones, David Taylor, Reuben Bridgwater, The. Jones Jas. David Davies John Edwards, Arthur Davies Arthur Jenkins, Hy. Renowden (for the second time), and Thos. Evans (also for the second time). His Worship next pre-ented Dr. Reid with an aneroid barometer, and the secretary (Mr. Lendrum) with a set of gold lmliS as a recognition by the members of the honorary services they had rendered. Both gifts were suitably acknowledged, the secretary remarking that during the year 65 members bad qualified themselves in the work of the association, and only about five bad failed in the examinations. (Hear, hear.) Mr. Hy. McDonnell, who has been the superintendent of an ambulance corps of 800 men, then delivered a most interesting address, in which he urged a continual practice in the first aid, so that they might keep up the knowledge they had gained.— Votes of thanks to the Mayor and Chairman were accorded, and his Worship, in reply, referred to a hope expressed by Mr. McDonnell that a local ambulance centre would be shortly formed in Swansea, and said be would be very pleased to do all he could to bring that about. (Hear, hear.)

HOUSEKEEPING A HUNDRED AND TWENTY YEARS AGO. AN INTERESTING LOCAL REMINISCENCE. Sir Robert Morris has in his possession the account book used by the housekeeper at Clase- mont in the year 1773-thirty years before the creation of the baronetcy. Some of the items in tjua interesting record will excite envy amongst th ) frugal housewives of to-day. A very largo household had to be maintained at Clasemontr but the meat was obtainable at phenomenally low prices. The beef supply amounted to from 401ba. to 60lbs. per week, to say nothing of the mutton and chickens and geese and ducks. But all these could be had for prices which would nowadays be considered dirt cheap. At Christ- mastime the housekeeper could buy half a rump and sirloin of beef, 691bs. at 3Jd. per pound, and mutton at prices ranging from 31d. to 4d. Some- times the beef, in sympathy with mutton-as the grain trade report would say-would rise to 5d. Per pound. For 2 cupple chickens" the sum of Is. 6d. was paid, and other chickens were bought • an(l 4d. apiece. Ducks were going at 6d., geese at Is. each—verily, the good old days I 7 ej n?a bad to be paid for through the nose s. od. per lb. for tea, 8 £ d. for sugar, 7d. for currants and 201bs. of salt for 2s. 3d., to give a. few instances. Other Christmastide entries "py, "1° housekeeper expended 3d. on nu v a a filing on oring peel candid." lhe Xmas quantity of meat was 641bs. beef, 241bs. mutton and sundry poultry. For anchovieg Is, 9d. per lb. was paid but it is not stated whether they were caught in Swansea Bay, at cna time a promising anchovy fishery ground.

SWANSEA SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY.-The annual conversazione and dance in connection with the above will be held at the Albert Halls 011 Wed- nesday, Nov. 16th. The secretaries, Dr. G. Arbour Stephens, M.D., and Dr. A. Lloyd Jones, M.R.C.S., intend leaving nothing undone to make the event a pleasurable, social and artistic success. We would advise the prompt purchase of tickets.

RHONDDA & SWANSEA BAY RAILWAY. The following are the traffic returns for the weeh ending Oct. 30. 1898, as compared with the corres- ponding week in 1897 1898. 1897. No. of Miles open 25 25 Passengers (Local) 9370 JE371 Goods t Minerals 1,180 999 Total for the Week 1,550 1,370 11 „ 17 Weeks 25,194 24 S99 Increase this week, ±180. Increase 17 weeks, JE195.

HIGH WATER IN SWANSEA HARBOUR Compiled from Greenwood's Nautical Almanac HIGH FEiama NEAREST MID-DAX- WATE?' Prmceot N. D'k S. DTf Day of Month Q-r'nwich Wales Dock. J-tide A-tide 'Mean » Basin. Basia. Time. Morn. Bven. CILL. CILL. November, A.M. P.M. F.I. T. I. ». 1. T. I. Friday 4 9 10 9 *9 27 1 26 1 20 1 13 7 Saturday.. 5 9 48 10 10 25 7] 24 8 18 8 17 2 Sunday 6 10 36 11 11 24 41 13 10 17 10 16 4 Monday 7 11 48 24 3! Tuesday.. 8 0 24 1 C 24 0 24 6 18 "e 17 Q Wednesday 9 1 36 2 5 24 10 25 6 19 6 18 0 Thursday 10 2 32 2 571 26 41 27 2 21 2 19 8

KITLEY. FASHIONABLE FLORIST, OXFORD-ST., SWANSEA,. FOB WEDDING BOUQUETS of the Newest Style, WREATHS, HARPS, CROSSES, AND ANY FLOKAL DESIGN. PROMPT ATTENTION. SATISFACTION GUARANTEED. Printed and Published by CHARLES EDWARD WILLING, for "The Cambrian" Newspaper Company, Limited at the office, No. 58, Wind-street, Swansea, in the- County of Glamorgan.—FRLDAT, Nov. 4th, 1898.

I LOCAL FIXTURES OF FORTHCOMING EVENTS. FRIDAY, Nov. 4. "The New Mephisto," at the Grand Theatre, and on Saturday evening. MONDAY, Nov. 7. The Circus Girl," at the Grand Theatre, and during the week. TUESDAY, Nov. 8. Excursion to London (Lord Mayor's Show), GWR. THURSDAY, Nov. 10. Limelight Lecture by Mr. John Foster Fraser. Subject—" Round the World on a Bicycle." FRIDAY, Nov. 11. Annual Meeting of the Swansea Training College for Schoolmistresses, at the College, Nelson- terrace. FRIDAY, Nov. 25. Lecture by Mr. F. Villiers, at the Albert Hall. Subject-" The Re-Conquest of the Soudan." SALES BY AUCTION. 'N Messrs. J. M. LEEDER & SON. Burry Tinplate Works, at Swansea Nov. 8 Etchings and Engravings, at Swansea Nov. 8 Messrs. BEYNON & MEAGER. Farming Stock, at Fforestfach Nov. 17 Messrs. LOWES & Sox. Leasehold Property, at Swansea Nov. 15 Messrs. HIGMAN & Co. Leasehold Property, at Swansea Nov. 18 Messrs. DAVID WILLIAMS & Co. Leasehold Property, at Landore. Nov. 14

SWANSEA SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY.—This Society has arranged for a series of conversational meetings to be held every Monday evening at the Royal Institution of South Wales, for the discus- sion. of scientific subjects. On Monday last the subject under discussion was archaeology. Col. Morgan, the President, occupied the chair, and among those present were Messrs. Starbuck Williams, B. H. Morgan, F. W. Martin, A. G. Moffat, S. A. Seyler, C. H. Perkins, Evan Lewis (Curator, and Miss B. H. Morgan. Col. Morgan read an interesting paper on tbe recent excava- tions at Bishopston—concerning which we published a fortnight ago an account supplied by Dr. Lloyd Jones-and a discussion followed, Mr. Moffat, Mr. E. S. Williams. Mr. Seyler and others taking part in it. On Monday next, Nov. 7th, the subject for discussion will be "Biology." It is to be hoped there will be a good attendance.

BIRTHS, MARRIAGES AND DEATHS BIRTHS. MCCULLOCH.—On July 5th, at Sandakan, British North Borneo, the wife of Mr. E. B. McCulloch, of a daughter. BEBNARD.—On the 28th October, at Uley, Gloucestershire, the wife of J. H. Bernard, Indian Civil Service, of a daughter. FRANCIS.—On the 29th October, at Arnold, Notts, the wife of Harvey Francis, M.B., M.R.C.S., of a son. GARsIDE.-On the 29th October, at Ashley Grove, Worksop, the wife of Frederick Garside, of a daughter. LANGTON.-on the 30th October, at Claremont Melton Mowbray, the wife of Harry Langton, of a son. s SHARpLEY-On the 30th October, at 66, Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury, the wife of Hugo Sharpley, of a son. NAILER.-On the 29th Oct., at Marble Hall- road, Llanelly, the wife of John Nailer, potter, of a daughter. REES.—On the 2nd Nov., at Uplands." near Llanelly, the wife of Wm. John Rees, of a daugh- ter. MARRIAGES. MCINERNT—DAWSON.—-On Oct. 29th at the Catholic Church, Monkstown, County Dublin, by the Rev. Father Flood, P.P., Aueuatiue Joseph, younger son of the late John Mclnerny, C S of Sa.lta.sh, Cornwall, to Kathleen Marv olHaaf $S5 £ tfioew,1"cl»tT.rErM'oi Mo,u" K L. Eoxby, M.A.), a-8i8Si%ei^9tv0r <E'I- Nasb, M.A., Lewis Jolly, of Alveston House, Thornbury, second son of Frank Jolly, of Henbury, near Bristol, to Annie Eliza Cummings, only daughter of the late Wm. Fredk. Cummings, of Leicester and Cheltenham, and niece of Ald. G. Norman, of Cheltenham. CHANDOS-POLE—ARENT.—On the 26th Oct., at Holy Trinity Church, Geneva, Reginald Walkelyne Chandoa-Pole, of Radburne Hall, Derby, eldest son, of the late Edward Sacherell and the Lady Anna Chandos-Pole, to Inez Blanche Morie Clotilde Eva, younger daughter of Col. Arent, late Commanding 11th Brandenburg Uhlans, and Mrs. Arent, Bellevue, Geneva. HAMILTON-HEMMING.-On the 27th October, at St. Mary Abbott's, Kensington, London, Archibald Robert Hamilton, of Clifton Mount, Jamaica, son of the late Rev. A. R. Hamilton, of Greenham, Newbury, to Lilian Mar) Stace, elder daughter of Sir Augustus W. L. Hemming, K.C.M.G., Governor of Jamaica, and of 33, Emperor's Gate, London. BUSH—LUCKOCK.—On the 26th October, at St. John the Evangelist's Church, Knotty Ash, Robert, eldest son of John Bush, of Beauthorn, Penrith, to Beatrice Irene, youngest daughter of the Very Rev. H. M. Luckock, D.D., Dean of Lichfield. GREAVES-HARRISON.-On the 27th Oct., at St. Jameaa, Westminster, London, James Greaves, of Derker Hall, Oldham, to Elizabeth ~°^e' younger daughter of J. M. Harrison, M.R.C.S., of Judiem, Cheshire. MORGANS—THOMAS.—On November 1st, at I iinity^Chapel, Llanelly, by the Rev R. Williams, John Morgans, Llandilo Crossing, to Letitia Thomas, 14, Russell-street, St. Paul's, Llanelly. DEATHS. ABRAHAM.-On the 28th of Oct., at 12, Wal- ter-terrace, Griffith Abraham, aged 66. ROGERS.—On October 22nd, 1898, Joseph G. Rogers, second son of Philip and Elizabeth Rogers, of 2, De-la-Boche-street, Swansea, in his 35th year. DAVIEs.-On October 20th, at Venezuela, suddenly, David George Davies, A.M.Inst.C.E., of Claremont Villas, Oystermouth, aged 39 years. Deeply mourned. BOWYER. — On the 28th Oct., at Serravalle, Italy, Mary, daughter of the late Sir George Bowyer, Bart., aged 79 years. GOODENOUGH.-On the 24th Oct., at Capetown, Sir William Howley Goodenough, K.C.B., com- manding Her Majesty's troops in South Africa, aged 65 years. MARTIN.—On the 31st Oct., at Bryntysilio,, near Llangollen, Helena Fauoit Martin, wife of Sir Theodore Martin, K.C.B., K.C.V.O. MILES.-On the 25th Oct., at Leigh Court, Bristol, Sir Cecil Leopold MUes, Bart., aged 25 years. OGG.-On the 28th Oct., at Wynnastiy, No. 1. Eaton Gardens, Hove, Hannah, wife of Sir Wil- liam Anderson Ogg. Knight, J.P., D.L., of Oak- field, South Dulwich. ANDREWS.-On the 30th Oct., at 3, Roman Villas, Cirencester, Marv Anne, widow of the Rev. William Andrews, B.D., Rector of Broad Somerford, Wilts, ag-ed 72 years. APLIN. On the 21st Oct., at Bodicote, Oxon, Ag-nes Ann Aplin, aged 79 years. ^le 29th Oct., at Eyton Hall, Wellington, Shropshire, Thomas Ruxton Slaney, eldest Son of Thomas Slaney Eyton, of Walford ri aged 30 years. J-AULKNOR.—On the 28th October, at 3, Pitt- Lawn, Cheltenham, General Jno. Augustu3 "pry Faulknor, aged 74 years. FORSTER.-On the 27th Oct., at West Hallam Hall, Derby, William Griffith Forster. GOOCH.—On the 25th Oct., at Longcross, Geo. Cecil Gooch, late 93rd Highlanders, aged 66 years NEALE.—On the 29th Oct., at 2, Pittville Cres- cent, Cheltenham, Mary Rogers Neale, widow of John Neale, of Cheltenham. WILCOX.—On the 31st Oct., William Wilcox, Deputy Chief Constable, at 74, Birchfield Road, Birmingham, aged 63 years. DA VIEs.-On October 31st, at 61,Stepney-place, Llanelly, Joyce, widow of the late David Davies, grocer, aged 80 years.