The Cambrian

SWANSEA PUBLIC LIBRARY. The usual monthly meeting of the Swansea Public Library, was held on Tuesday last, under the presidency of Tr. H. A. Chapman (Chairman) and Mr. John Williams (Vice-chairman). The following were also present Messrs. G. Morgan, ".1. Harvey, Roger Thomas, S. J. Cocks, T. Coles, Bhv* Edwards, D. Harris, F. F. Hosford, J. J. W. Lloyd, and T. Rowland Richard*. Mr. D. Harris referred to the Sunday trading question, and said he was informed a newsdealer who supplied the Library sent out boys with •papers on Sunday. He asked if it was right that they should thus eucourage Sunday trading. The Chairman said the matter was of such a con- troversial character that notice would have to be given before any motion could he accepted. A discussion on the fried fish odour which the readers at the St. Helen's Branch have to put up with. cropped up on a remark made in the visit- ing book that the smpll still continued. Even- tually. it was decided, upqn the suggestion of Mr. Richards, to ask one of the sanitary inspec- tors to inspect and to report on the matter. The Librarian presented a full report of ttn operations and presentations.

FORTHCOMING PROPERTY SALES.—Messrs. J. Son will conduct an important. aale of property, comprising the "Manor or iordship" of Paviland, and a freehold farm known as Paviland," Gower at the Hotel Metropole, Swansea, on Wednesday afternoon, 3lav 15th. Our advertising columns also contain particulars of property sales to be con- ducted bv Messrs. Leader and Son, and one by Mr. Dd. Roberts.

DEATH OF MR. ALBERT MASON, J.P. THE FUNERAL YESTERDAY (THURSDAY). The news of the death, on Monday, of Mr. Albert Mason, J.P., caused keen and general regret. Swansea has lost a faithful, coascien- tious and able public man. He was neither a j trimmer nor a self-seeker, but was independent, outspoken and painstaking. What he did on the several boards on which he sat he did in the interests of the town at large. As Councillor, Alderman and Mayor, as member of the Harbour Trust, Board of Guardians and Assessment Committee, as one of the prime movers in the Horse Show, and as a Committeeman of the Glamorganshire Agricultural Society, he shewed he possessed qualities unfortunately too rare among Swansea's public men. In public and private, Mr. Mason was always the same, courteous unassuming and kind. He played a highly important part in the municipal govern- ment of the town. Indeed, so varied, valuable and long were the services he rendered Swan sea, that we feel confident his many friends and ad- mirers will see to it that something is done to commemorate his memory. The deceased gentleman was seriously ill for several months, and in pite of his wife's constant and devoted care and the most skilful medical attention, he passed peacefully away on Monday. A few weeks ago a change for the better was noticed, and the announcement of the fact occasioned general relief. Unfortunately, however, a relapse set in, and Swansea now mourns the loss of one of her best sons- The warmest sympathy is felt for the bereaved widow and children—two sons and two daughters. Mr. Mason commenced life on the railway, and very many years ago he came to Swansea to fill a responsible position under the Vale of Neath Railway Company. By the exercise of that hard common sense, enterprising spirit and up- rightness that marked bis later work as a public man, lVI". Mason speedily acquired a position in the front rank of Swansea's prominent buisness men. He severed his connection with the Vale of Neath Railway for a still more important position under the G.W.R. Company. Subse- quently he joined Mr. Powlesland in the well- known and important firm of Powlesland and Mason, of which he afterwards became the head. He was largely interested in several local con- cerns, and was a director of three or four. He took very keen delight in the develop- ment of the harbour. He was, up to the time of his death, Chairman of the Harbour Trust Finance Committee. Mr. Mason was a wise progressivist; his record in the Council Chamber sufficient proof of that. In politics the late Mr. Mason was a Con- servative. He threw his whole heart into the last Parliamentary election, and the election of Sir John Llewelyn caused him keen delight. In religion he was a most loyal Churchman, and as a Magistrate of the Peace he was thoroughly independent. He was for many years a member of the Council of the Royal Institution of South Wales. The deceased's sound common-sense, keen foresight, tact and strength were brought out in bold relief during the great dock strike in Swansea several years ago. He was elected chairman of the Employers' Association, and it is generally acknowledged that the satisfactory settlement of the strike was due very largely t. hIS efforts and conduct. By the death of Mr. Mason Swansea has lost a genuine friend, a worthy citizen, and an honest public man. THE FUNERAL—YESTERDAY. The esteem in which the late Mr. Mason was held was strikingly evidenced yesterday, when the funeral took place. Although it was known that the funeral would be private, a large and representative number of com- mercial, professional and public gentlemen attended at the Mumbles Cemetery to pay the last tribute of respect to one whom it was good to know. The weather was showery and stormy, and it no doubt greatly interfered with the attendance of the outside public. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Mr. D. C. Jones, Castle Square. During th morning the Paiish Church bell was tolled, and flags hung half-mast at the Harbour Trust, Conservative Club, Swansea Club, Hotel Mctropole and places. The cortege left North Hill, the residence of ttie deceased, shortly after 11 o'clock, and pro- ceeded direct to the Mumbles. A number of the oldest workmen in the employ of the firm of Messrs. Powesland and Mason acted as bearers. The coffin which was of polished oak, with brass fittings, bore the following inscription :— Albert Mason. Born, 4th June, 1840. Died April, 1900." The principal mourners were :-First carriage Mr. F. F. Mason (eldest son), Mr. R. W. Mason (second son), Mrs. Cleaver (daughter), and Miss Mason (daughter). Second carriage: Mr. Alf. Cleaver (son-in-law), Mr. Tom Fitch, (brother-in- law), and Mr. R. Downing (brother-in-law). Wreaths were sent by the followingThe dockers of Messrs. Powlesland and Mason the trippers of ditto the cartag-e staff of ditto Mr. A. Lindsay Careless, Llandrindod; the Salisbury Club; Mr. and Miss Livingston, Mrs. Robert -tones, Mr. Lascelles Carr (Cardiff), Mise S. Flitch, Miss T. Ludlow, Mr. D. O'Halloran (Brighton), Mrs. Lume James, Mr. Carters, Mr. Mears, Mrs. A. Davies, Mr. W. E. Sonthby (Slough), Mrs, Simkins (London), Mr. and Mrs. Downing; the officers and members of the Swan- sea Police Force; St. Winifred's Convent; the employees of the United Breweries; the maid- servants, etc., at North Hill; Mr. and Mrs. Ben. Evan's; the employees at the Cameron Arms Hotel; Mr. Ralph Cleaver (London), Mr. F. Peart, Mr. B. Mason, and the deceased's widow. The officiating clergy were the Rev. Mr. Morgan, of St. James, and the Rev. Mr. T. Morris, of St. Mary's. Amongst those present at the Mumbles Ceme- tery were Mr. J. Roberts, M.E., Mr. J. R. Leaver, and Mr. Evan Lewis (representing Royal Insti- tution), Mr. H. Jevons (Deputy Town Clerk), Mr. A. O. Scbenk, Mr. Frede iok JE iwards (Capital and Counties Bank). Mr. Christopher Rowlonds, Mr. Iwupert Lewis, (Messrs. Robinson Smith, Son, and Lewis), Mr. Fred Smith (L. and N. W. Railway), Mr. W. L. Griffiths, Mr. Richard Martin (ex-Mayor), Mr. David Owen, J.P., Mr. W. J. Rees. J.P.. Mr. Ernest Leeder, Mr. G. Thornton Andrews, Mr. E. Palmer Bowen (Lloyd's Bank), Mr. Harding, Mr. Charles Gu-tavns, Dr. Gomer Lewis (chairman of the Swansea Board of Guardians), Mr. Llewelyn Jenkins (clerk to the Swansea Board of Guardians). Mr. J. W. Johnson, Mr. J. F. Collett, Mr. W. Clement, Mr. Roger Beck, Sir Robert Morris, Mr. Isaac Gale, Mr. F. H. Glynn Price, Mr. H. W. Crowhurst, Mr. Mears (United Breweries), Mr. A. Thomas (Thomas and Watkins), Mr. R. Chalk (representing Pride of Wales Lodge. M.U., of which deceased was a member), Messrs. Trickey, Colwill, Knight, and Luke (G.W.R ), Messrs. Unwin and Geo. Harris (Powlesland and Mason), Mr. Griff. Thomas (chairman of the Swansea Harbour Trust), Mr. W. Law, J.P, (harbour superintendent), Mr. R. W. Beor, Mr. G. E. Cook, Aid. J. Aeron Thomas, Mr. A. Lindsay Careless (Llandrindod), Alderman Fred. Bradford, Mr. J. H. Stevens, Mr. Thomas Morgan (Master, Swansea Work- house), Mr. Hood, Mr. Broughton and Mr. Hanson Thomas (representing the Equitable Building Society). Mr. H. Chalk, Mr. Jacob Jenkins, Aid. Gwilym Morgan, Mr. Alf. Thomas, Mr. Griffith Davies, Mr. D. F. Jones, Aid. M. Tutton, Mr. John Glasbrook, Mr. D M. Glas- brook, Mr. Thomas Freeman, Colonel W. Pike, Captain Colquhoun (Chief Constable), Mr. Harry Morris, Mr. G. LI. Hay, &0. Mr. Talfourd Strick was unable to be present through being confined to his house with a bad cold.

Do not accept the bottle which does not Veai the labe WHEATLEY'S HOP BIT- TERS It is absolutely the best NON-IN- TOXICATING DRINK, and has gained the Highest Awards over all Competitors. MYSTERIOUS DEATH OF A SWANSEA CYCLIST. —On Saturday, Mr. Talfourd Strick, the deputy borough coroner, held an inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of William Henry Parsonage, aged 23. who was found m the road near Clydach last Sunday week suffering from concussion of the brain, and died on Thurs- day. It appeared that on Saturday he went to Pantyffynon, intending to cycle back on the Sunday. On Sunday afternoon he was seen by Mrs. Margaret Morris, of Pontardawe, lying on the side of the road at Glais. She stopped and spoke to him, but he seemed unable to speak, and only looked at her and her companions. His cycle was on the other side of the road, and looked as if it. had been put there. She left a cyclist with deceased while she went on to Pontardawe to inform the police. The cyclist promised to report the matter at Clydach, but did not. P.C. Morris cycled down to the spot on receiving the information. Finding deceased he got medical assistance. Dr. Freeman Marks, of the Swansea Hospital, said death was due to fracture of the skull and hemorrhage of the brain. The coroner expressed the opinion that deceased must have fallen off bis bicycle, but as there was insufficient evidence on the point he advised the return of an open verdict, and this was done. The jury censured the unknown cyclist for not reporting the accident after he had promised to do so. WHAT WE SAY IS TRUE Sufferers from Gravel, Lumbago, Piles, Pains in the Back, Dropsy, Wind and Water Com- plaints, Diseases of Kidney, Bladder, Urinary Organs, Stone, Gleet, Btrieture, eatlca, BhenmatiBm and G-out, wll find a positive cure in HOLDKOYD'S GRAVEL PiLLS. Try a small oox, and if not satisfied your money will be returned- Price 1£. ld. of all Chemists, or post free 12 stamps, from Holdroyd's >IetVical Hall, Cleckheaton, Yorks. Don't be put off. If you canrot set them. write at once to the Proprietor, wad a box will be sent next Dost

SALE OF A WELL-KNOWN BUSINESS. RETIREMENT OF MRS. M. REES, HEATHFIELD-STREET. The old-established and well-conducted business of Mrs. M. Rees, 12 and 13, Heath- field-street, is about to change hands. Mrs. Rees will retire. It may be remembered that this business was opened upwards of twenty years ago, and has been growing even- since so much so, indeed, that it has been found necessary to make important and ex- teusive alterations. We learn that the pur- chaser is Mr. Ernest Halford, and that Mrs. Rees's son (Mr. Percy Rees) and daughter (Miss Gwen. Rees) will remain in the business, and that the new firm will be carried on under the name of Messrs. Halford and Rees. It may be taken for granted that they will maintain the high reputation won by Mrs. Rees, and continue to show all the leading novelties in fancy drapery, and especially in mantles and millinery, which they intend to make a speciality. Mrs. Rees, in retiring, wishes to thank all her customers for their liberal and uniform support, to deserve which she spared no trouble. The purchaser, Mr. Halford, has had considerable experience with firms of high standing, as has also his wife, who will take an active and leading interest in the business. This high-class drapery house has a reputation for its genuine and honest management. Every attention is paid to the quality of the stock. The people of Swansea, and especially numerous customers, will hope Mrs. Rees :vill long live to enjoy her well-earned retirement.

SWANSEA MAY SHOW. THE PRIZE LIST. The Swansea Tradesmen's May Show and Parade took place yesterday. The entries were less than last year, the most notable absentees being Messrs. Ben Evans and Co., who have been too busy to show their horses and vehicles. Judging took place in the Victoria Park, and in the evening there was a procession through the principal streets of the town. The hon. judges were:—Captain Eady, 1st G.V.A.; Captain Forbes, 3rd G.V.R.; Mr. Watkin Joseph, Devynoch; Mr J. R. Thomas, Towyn, Burry Port; Mr. Job Freegard, Neath; Mr. William Beynon, Gower; Mr. John Holland. Gower; Mr. R. H. Sampson, Pontardulais; Mr. A. Anthony, Kidwelly; Ir. D. White, Glyncauran; Mr. W. M. Jones, Neath; Mr. George Sutherland, Gower; Mr. W. J. Stockham, Neath; Mr. T. Nicholas, Aberavon; Mr. Robert Moffat, Gower. Pre- sident: His Worship the Mayor (W. Watkins, Esq.); "Vice-Presidents: Mr. R. Martin, Col. W. LI. Morgan, Mr. F. Bradford, Mr. B Evans, Mr. H. Watkins, Mr. D. F. Sugrue, Mr. H. Macdonnell. Committee: Captain Thomas. Messrs. George H. Bevan, J. Boyle, T. B. Brown, T. T. Corker, H. W. Crowhurst, J. Brader, J. F. Harvey, W. R. Hughes, G. Hellier, A. German, B. Freedman, H. W. Hansard, T. H. H. Kibbler, T. Lewis, F. Mason, George Mayou, H. T. Perkins, A. Puddicombe, W. Puddicombe, Charles Reed, T. C. Small, M.R.C.V.S., J. M. Stewart, M.R.C.V.S., T. H. Toms, John White, P. lies, F. J Parker, S. Daniel, S. Pike, M.R.C.V.S., W. Fulton, M. Jacobs, Trev. Jenkins, J. P. Giles, W. Edwards, A. E. Andrews. C. Allen, S. Griffiths, R. Lewis, W. E. Bradford, W. Gambold, D. Davidson, F. E. Brown, H. A. Hole, F. Shepherd, W. H. Williams, P. Moly- neux, W. Billings, W. J. Phelps, H. Pavid, E. W. Bowcn, W. M. Davies, M.R.C.V.S. Hon. Treasurer: Col. W. LI. Morgan. Secretary: W. English, Strand, Swansea. The following is the prize list: — Class 1.—SAvansea Corporation (best horse and cart, van, wagon, or other vehicle): 1, Dolly (W. Gubb); 2, Blagdon (J. H. Jones); 3, Drummer (E. Smith); 4, Charlie (W. Rad- denbury); 5, Turpin (W. Turner). Class 2.—Merchants, contractors, etc. (best horse and trolley or waggon): 1 and 2, L.and N.W.R. Co.'s Punch (James Evans) and Ventura (John Norman). Class 4.—Brewers (best cart horse and trolley, wagon or cart); 1, 4 and 5, Worthing- ton and Co.'s General Symons (W. Wedlake), King Newton (C. Tubbs), and Glencoe (A. Evans); 2 and 3, Allsopp and Co.'s Sandy (C. Gwynn) and Towyn (G. Wilson). Class 5.—Hay, corn, flour and potato mer- chants (best cart horse and cart, 12cwt. and under): 1, C. Allen's (R. Trick, driver); 2, Rees Davies' Ladysmith (Tom Jenkins); 3, Fred. Ley's Princess (T. Parminter). Class 6.—Hay, flour and potato merchants (best cart horse and cart or wagon, over 12 cwt.) 1, Weaver and Co.'s Duke (Rees James); 2, C. Allen's Prince (F. Joslin); 3 and 4, T. Evans and J. Dyer's Lion (J. Kellaway) and Prince (George Tucker); 5, Corker and Bevan's Boxer (J. Boyles). Class 7.—General hauliers, coal dealers, etc. (best horse and cart or wagon): 1, T. II. Toms's Lady Buller (J. Grey); 2, Merriman and Co.'s Boxer (E. Murphy). Class 8.—Wine and spirit merchants (best horse and cart or wagon): 1, Fulton and Co.'s Duke (W. Hellier): 2, Fred. Bradford's Dandy; 3, Fulton and Co.'s Captain (J. Davies); 4, F. Bradford's Prince (A. Johnson). Class 9. — Aerated water manufacturers (best horse and cart or wagon): 1, 3 and 4, Charles L. Watkins's Daisy (Fred. Burge), Tommy (William Steele), and Bob (Charles Bryant); 2, Robert Boucher's Darling (W. Havavd). Class 10.—Milk (best horse and cart or trap\ 1 and 5. H. T. Perkins's Lord Banton (Ley- shon Dirk) and Dick (John Mossey); 2, W. Robinns's Darling (W. Robbins); 3, 4. and Dolly (W. Puddicombe), Ladysmith (G. Caine), and Buller (C. Horder). Class 11.—Bakers (best horse and cart, wagon or trap): 1, W. R..Tefford's Charlie (S. Jefford); 2, W. Gambold's Emperor (W. Gambold); 3, W. Peter's Kitty (R. Hodkin- son). Class 12.—Grocers (best horse and cart or trap): 1, Taylor and Co.'s Jess (Thomas Davies); 2. John Richards's Venture (Fred. Cude); 3 4 and 5, D. Jones, Dickinson and Co.'s Dollv (Bert Fisher), Bess (R. Green- slade) and DoAvlais (T. Burgess) respectively. ClaBJ 13.—Butchers (best horse (o11d trap): 1, A. Puddicombe's Tom (Alf. Cole); 2, John Francis's Pet (T. J. Eastman). Class 14.—Drapers (best horse and cart or van) 1, Lewis Lewis and Co.'s Bess (Walter Stiles) 2, Prince (E. Lewis). Class 15.—Furnishers and Ironmongers (Best horse and cart or van 1, F. C. Eàdershaw's Bob (W. G. Williams, driver) 2, J. Hillard's Chalie (D. Davies) 3, Domestic Supply Co's Polly (W. Dadds). Class 16.—Coal, coke, etc. (best horse or pony and cart. driven by owner): 1, John Davia's Charlie; 2, George Davies's Polly; 3, W. Lock's Polly. Class 17.—Best donkey and cart (driven by owner): 1, A. E. Andrews's Tommy. Class 18.—Best pair of horses and wagon, trolley, and van (heavy): 1, Weaver and Co.'s Blossom and BoAvler (James White); 2. Corker and Bevan's Hampton and Diamond (J. Hewitt). Class 19.—Horses and wagon, trolley or van (lisjht): 1. W. Edwards's Captain and Major (W. Lock, driver); 2, John Richards's Bess and Derby (.T. Davies); 3, M. Jacobs and Co.'s Bob and Prince (William Richards). Class 20.-Best horse and business cart or tran not previously classified (over 14 hands): 1. R. Whittaker's Daisy (R. Whittaker); 2 and 3. Lovell Bros.'s Prince (Arthur Lovell) and Doctor (E. Lovell); 4, Mills, English and Co.'s Polly (G. Ross). Class 21.—Best horse and business cart or trap not prpviouslv classified (14 hands and under): 1. E. Griffiths's Tom (D. Davies); 2, Evan Rees's Kitty (James Lewis); 3, T. Davies's Mav (A. Davies). Special Prize.—Cart horse for heavy draught work, 16 hands or over (silver medal): 1. Wortliington and Co.'s General Svmons (W. Wedlpke); v.h.c., Weaver and Co.'s Duke (Rees .Tamest Messrs. Weaver and Co. won the silver medal and £1 for the best. pair of horses for heavv draught work. W.' Edwards and Co.. Oxforrl-strpot. ^ecm-ed the Champion Prize of a whip for the best turn-out in the show.

SOUTH WALES INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERS^ ADDRESS BY THE PRESIDENT, ME. T. EVENS. THE WORLD'S COAL OUTPUT. ——— The annual meeting of the South Wales Institute of Engineers was held on the 30th April, when the newly-elected President. ír. Thos. Evens. M.Inst.C.E., delivered an im- portant address. He said :—It has always been my object to promote any plan or scheme put forward which might be conducive to the welfare of the Institute, and it is a source of great gratification to have been one of the Council during the erection of the splendid building in which we are now assembled. Our Institute is called the Institute of En- gineers, thus embracing every class of Engin- eers. It is the parent Institute for this dis- trict, thus making it the imperative duty of each of its members to promote in every pos- sible way anything that may serve to foster engineering in all its branches. The regular attendance at meetings, the reading and ob- taining papers upon any subject bearing upon engineering and kindred subjects, also the bringing forA\Tard neAv candidates, are ways in which, among others, every member may advance the cause of the Institute. There is no profession, civil or military, there is no trade or manufacture which does not in some way or other require the services of one of our fraternity. Hoiv-greatly. therefore, does it behove us to keep pace with the ever-in- creasing demands of the times by studying whatever may enable us to be well to the fore in the invention of new appliances and carry- ing out of works of every description. At the same time, it is well to bear in mind that hoAvever great the ability of an Engineer, he is largely dependent for the success of his undertakings upon the hearty co-operation of those associated with him. This being more essential the larger and more important the work with which the name of a particular Engineer may be associated. As Engineers. AAE cannot AA ell be too jeaJous of our honour- able position. There is no doubt that the responsibility of designing and managing works is very often neither properly remuner- ated nor our position sufficiently recognized by those who owe their prosperitv to our skill and exertions. It has always appeared to me that Engineers should give more time to the study of the commercial side of mat- ters, as this Avoulfl enable them to direct the finances and business arrangements. This would give them the additional power which iF needed for the supreme control of large works, and thus prevent that clashing of in- terests often seen when departments are managed independently. Again, I would suggest that when disputes have to be settled, based upon engineering evidence we should all use our efforts to secure a tribunal which is dominated by an Engineer. In the; Admiralty Court, Marine Assessors are ap- pointed—how much more in engineering matters should th3 as-iistaiiee of trained eii- gineers be sought to obtain a satisfactory iJ 1 members of this Institute, we should draw more and more together and by exchange of views and mutual good comrade- ship, not only greatly add to our individual prosperity, but often help us to defeat the ends of those who would make us mere tools in pushing foiwar(I their interests in a man- ner of which we entirely disapprove. During my term of office we shall pass into another century. What will it bring forth ? Should the progress equal that made in the century now- closing, what wonderful dis- coveries and changes are yet in store for those coming after us. After referring to the progress of our rail- ways, docks, to the development of electric power, etc., Mr. Evens dealt with the great increase^ in the AA^orld's coal output, and said: Compare our collieries, now turning out two or three thousand tons of coal per day from a single shaft, with the production of only two to three hundred tons in the same time fifty years ago. The hours of labour, the methods of extraction, the mechanical arrangements and improved machinery ap- plied to every department shows an amount of progress the most sanguine could not have anticipated. The rapid increase of coal pro- duction during the 10 years ending 1899, is seen by the following table, which appeared in the." Iron and Coal Trades Review," Feb., 1900:—Computed production of coal in 1899, compared with the ascertained output of 1899, in the nine leading countries:— Countries. 1899. 1889. United Kingdom 212,000,000 176,917,000 United States 218,000,000 85,383,000 Germany 110,000,000 67,342,000 France 32.500,000 23,852,000 Belgium 22,000,000 19,870,000 Austro-Hungary 12,500,000 9,530,000 Russia 11,900,000 6,197,000 Canada 4,100,000 2,658,000 India 4,250,000 1,946,000 Totals 627,250,000 393,695,000 Tho unequalled steam coal of South Wales was unknoAvn and not required at the begin- ning of the century. Its first export to a foreign country took place about the year 1846, and from that date, owing chiefly to the introduction of steamships, the demand has steadily increased to the enormous quantity now yearly sent away from South Wales, amounting last year to 43,064,831 tons. It is a question requiring serious consideration, how long the smokeless coals, which the Admiralty now consider suitable for the Navy, are likely to. last, and I think most of those interested in the matter will admit that at the present rate of working the Admiralty will, before the expiration of a long period, be obliged to have recourse to other Welsh coals than are now permitted to be on their list. If, as it apparently is, a matter of the utmost consequence, that the highest quality of smokeless steam coal shall be at all times available for our Warships, then, it seems to me, our authorities should carefully look into the question of restricting the exportation S such coals, and in some equitable way assure to themselves an adequate supply for such a period as it may be thought advisable for th, future. Our r etiring President gave us some valuable information as to the expected depths of the lower scries of coals in the Western district. It is, without doubt, the best information on this subject, and we must hope that ere long some member of this Institute will be engaged to prove the value of these unexplored areas. It will be a costly undertaking, and require the use of the most modern and best appliances to win and bring the produce in good condition to the market. When sinking a deep pit, it is of great importance to have powerful engines to attend the sinkers, so that the debris and a fair quantity of water can always be raised faster than they accumulate. In sink- ing modern pits 18 and 20 feet in diameter, a large number of men can always be in the bottom, and with ample tools, materials, in- cluding explosives, and good supervision, it is surprising to many of us how quickly a deep shaft can be put down by hand labour. An Engineer in charge of such works should insist upon being allowed to provide pumping power and materials much beyond what he expects to require. By so doing, he may avoid much disappointment and loss, being thus able to meet contingencies as they arise, instead of being obliged to stop the works from time to time, by having to wait for addi- tional appliances to be obtained and put in working order. Our old ironworks have dis- appeared. and in their place modern gigantic concerns have been laid down, and if we only compare the blast furnaces in the beginning of the century, producing 50 or 60 tons of pig iion, with those now yielding in some cases nearly 2,000 tons in the same time. it at once gives us some idea of the progress in this one branch of trade. The production of iron in Great Britain in the year 1800, was about 185,000 tons, and in 1899 the output has reached the enormous amount of 9 305,319 tons. Then consider the revolution in the Iron and Steel industries since Bessemer in 1857 brought before the world his wonderful plan for making steel direct from molten iron (without the old intermediate processes* by the simple method of blowing air through it. His idea, although theoretically perfect, was not at first successful, through his failure to stop the process at the exact moment when the right amount of carbon required was present. However, by making use of an invention of Mushet's he drove all the carbon out of the molten iron, and then added to the remainder tTie right proportions to produce the required steel, the success of this invention very quickly thus revolutionizing the Iron and Steel trade of the world. A subsequent pro- cess invented by Siemens has also been verv successful, and his name. with others, will also be ever remembered in connection with the great Steel and Iron trades of this cen- turv. To-day an enormous percentage of the output from the blast furnaces is converted into steel, and probably there is not a large ship afloat, or a recent metal structure of any magnitude, that is not made more or less of'steel. Although steel, by careful manipu- lation, makes such an admirable material for our needs, it must not be forgotten that it has many eccentricities. The investigations of the chemist and physicist are gradually how- ever. teaching us hew to deal Avith these and I think the remark of Ir. Parry in his nTY valuable paper contributed to th" Institute that the constituents of steel do not all con- c'oal at. the same temperature, may account for soraeoi the difficulties in dealing with this metal, for the purnose of steel making bv I the Bessemer and Siemens' processes, it was found nocen'sjiry and convenient to obtain cres that would producc in the blast furnace the requisite quality of metal. To meet this want we have become dependent to a great extent upon the importation of foreign ores. Those found in the neighbourhood of Bilbao, in the north of Spain, proving to be suitably rich. and cheaply AAorked, have been drawn upon to such an extent that many of the mines are already worked out, and the rest aiv being heavily draArn upon. Other supplies have been sought out. and among them, a large district in the North of Spain, in the neighbourhood of Burgos, will shortly be sup- plementing the shipments at Bilbao. The various ores in this district are of high quality, are capable of being cheaply worked, and of such an enormous extent, that having myself visited the properties during a plea- sure trip, I am able to say they bid fair to be- come one of the largest sources of supply. The railway connecting these properties with the Port of Bilbao will shortly be opened. It is gratifying to be able to record that these properties are entirely owned by English capitalists, who propose developing both the properties and the railway, as well as the shipping facilities, upon lines that are con- sidered sufficiently modern to face any European or American competition in supply- ing the raw material, as to the abundance of which many English consumers have ot late felt some doubt—but they need not, in my opinion, concern themselves on that account. In the beginning of the century, scarcely a thought was given to Sanitary Science, and great epidemics were consequently not un- common, especially in country districts, their ravages often reaching beautiful little villages and carrying off numbers of their inhabitants at a swoop. Why? For want of knowledge of sanitation, by drinking contaminated water, on account of bad drains or no drains at all, and the indifference shewn by every- one- to such matters. Now all this is changed, and when any dangerous disease appears, every means is taken by our medical men to ascertain the cause, remedies ar? at once applied and patieats isolated to prevent the disease spreading. These things, combined with our elaborate and costly system of water supply and effective drainage on sys- tems designed by engineers, have extended considerably the average length of life of our ever-growing population. Wrhen we consider that every head of our population has to be provided at present with from 30 to 35 gallons of water, and that only a small proportion is used for domestic purposes, we must admit that advocates of earth or other deodorizer (in a closet which ean be eleared in eomhina- tion with refuse from our dust-bins) have; much to say for a system. It would reduce the water requirements to probably 15 gallons i per head per day. The less cost of providing this reduced supply of water, and the reduced quantity of seAvage to be dealt with, should go I far to provide the cost of dealing with the extra solid refuse. In connection with this subject, it should give us some consolation to know that the Commission appointed to en- quire into the London water question have leported against bringing water from Wales, as intended by the London County Council. It has always seemed to me that Wales should be very jealous of allowing her valuable re- sources of water supply to be appropriated by large toAvns at a distance. The Thames is well able to supply any quantity required for London if only the authorities would make ample storage reservoirs below the level of ordinary flood, having long Aveirs and sluices by which the flood Avater could flow, and fill them automatically, without any pumping or other appliances. This stored water could then be pumped as required, and the ordinary flow of the river would not be interfered with in any way. In Avinter. after heavy rains, any traveller by the Great Western Railway to London may see large areas of low-lying lands under water, and the cost of storage on such lands would be moderate compared with the scheme for storing water in Wales and conveying it some 200 miles to London. It is often asked what shall we do for power when the coal fields are exhausted. This is a ques- tion to be also arranged by the future genera- tion. who, by maintaining the advance made in the past, will undoubtedly discover some substitute. Necessity is a hard master— driving those in want to find a means of satisfying him. Take the revolution of our earth, giving off power bv causing the tides to ebb and flow. Take the volume of water in our Channel rising and falling on an aver- age about 30ft. twice in 24 hours; a vast power, compared to which all our steam engines together are a mere nothing. Again, water is composed of gases, and shall we say that no cheap means will ever be discovered to utilise these as sources of energy. Again, the atmosphere and the sun's rays may possibly have attention. Crooks discovered that a vane will revolve in vacuo by the pul- sations of light impinging on it. thus giving us a sensitive force. Great minds are neces- sary to apply the great resources of Nature to man's requirements, and how can we better aid in th3 training and development of minds than by a careful system of Technical Educa- tion. Scientific training is now within the teach of almost everyone, and no lad with any thought of being an engineer or a member of any kindred profession need fear obtaining such help in his studies as will fit him for a foremost position among the great band of workers who are in the van of progress and discovery. At the same time, it must be borne in mind that scientific education alone is of small avail without the practical teach- ing necessary to enable men to apply and make use of the stores of knowledge which they have had the opportunity of accumulat- ing A high theoretical training, without practice, frequently leads to grave error and disappointment by an endeavour to apply theory without making such allowances as are found in practice to be necessary. Theory is under the nature of things based on the as- sumption of perfect, work and material. Now we know that no work can be executed with mathematical truth, and no perfect material exists; hence the engineer. hoAvever highly trained, must of necessity make many alloAvances by using that grand old factor, common sense. In conclusion, we must not forget our kindred scientists who help us by their researches, thereby drawing from Nature's storehouse 80 manv wOHderful and useful results. We need only point as illus- trations to those beautiful experiments, whereby Lord Raleigh and Professor Dewar discovered the presence of a third con- stituent in atmospheric air. which thev named Argon. Again, air has been liquified, and later, hydrogen also has succumbed to skill and perseverance.

CHILDREN'S CONCERT AT I SWANSEA. IX AID OF ATKT.VS AND EARXARDO'S HOMES. The scholars of Rutland-Street Girls' School, Swansea, surprised and delighted a large audience at the Albert Kali last (Thursday; evening. They went through a somewhat novel programme with a smartness and confidence that reflected the highest credit upon themselves and Miss Maggie Jones, hc-ad-mistress. And what a task Miss Jones must have had What a wealth of patience and tact it required. But now that it is over Miss Jones must ÍEel as proud and happy as the children. The concert was in aid of the Daily Post" Reservists' Fnnd and Dr. Bar- nardo's Homes, and it turned out an unquali- fied financial, spectacular and musical success. For the children were all very prettily dressed, and their varied costumes a charm to the performance that was pos:tive- lv delightful. And how the girls dancsd and iskipped Of course, the concert opened with Rule Britannia," which was rendered with an enthusiasm and vigour that must have astonished any foreigners present. Ther came Cherry Hipe," and for the frst time we experienced the simplicity and charm of the concert. The vocal gavotte. Trip. trip. tripping" was excellently executed by the Junior Scholars. The girls, from the young- est to the oldest, danced gracefully and skipped skilfully, and in splendid time. too. The senior scholars having sung" A Merry Kingara." Miss Gertie Reynolds rendered Darkie's Cradle Song." Gertie was in good form; she possesses a sweet voice, and she sang with intelligence. It was no wonder the audience applauded so vigorously. The Action Song Skipping was admirably done, and we thought we saw a flush of pride spread over Miss Jones' smiling face. "Jerry Blinkum's Baby." a character sketch, followed. All the characters were impersona- ced in good style, and the sketch was much enjoyed. The Junior scholars scored heavily in the Action Song Flowery Garlands." The other two items in the first part of the pro- gramme were a song by Master G. J. Hill and the Action Song" Pinafore." The second nart of the programme was as follows: — Pianoforte solo, Miss F. M. Thomas, L.R.A.M; song, A Little Teller Coon," Miss Maggie Lucas and Jun. Scholars: action song. Am- bulance Maids," Senior Scholars; recitation. The Shadow on the Blind." Miss Ada Evans; hoop drill. Junior Scholars; charac- ter sketch. "Punchinello" fWatson's. Master W. R. Davies and friends; violin solo. Master \V. Cole; action song, by the "Kitchener" Brigade.

Allletters to the Editor must be authellticatd with, the name and address of the writer, not necessarily for publica- tion, but as a guarantee of good faith.

CANAAN CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. A GRAND BAZAAR. A very pretty two-days' bazaar, in connection with the above place of worship, was opt-ned yesterday 'Thursday) afternoon. According to the official handbook is-ued, the germ of the Congregational cause at Foxhole can be traced back to the later decades of the 18th century, when meetings were held in the house of Thomas Williams, Pentrechwyth. At this time the Rev. Lewis Rees was pastor of Mynyddbach Ctiurch (1759-1800). Several members of the Church lived in the district of Foxhole, and attended service at Mynyddbach whenever pos-ible but as it was inconvenient to cross the river-tl-ere being no bridge—they ultimately decided to form a meeting-house nearer home, and this was done in the above-mentioned Thomas Williams' house. As years went on this little branch flourished to such an extent that about 1795 they had to seek larger premises. Permission was obtained from the Copper Works Co. for the use of the old Kilvey School as a meeting-place, and there the little band worshipped for 40 years. Wbeu, in 1808, the Rev. David Davies left Mynyddbaca (after a pastorate of 13 years) to take charge of Ebenezer, the branch at Pentrechwyth decided to throw in their lot with that Church. They worshipped there on Sunday morning's, and at the Kilvey School in the evenings. In 1836 it was thought advisable to build a church of their own. A site was selected where the church now stands, building operations commenced in 1839, and in 1840 the church was opened and the name "Canaan" given it. The church bad to be rebuilt in 1864 at a cost of £ 1.100. The handbook concludes The present members are in possession of a noble heritage which they feel bound to uphold and increase. Of late years the work has been hampered considerably by a heavy debt. It is our desire that the wors accomplished in past years may continue, and we appeal to the sympathy of our friends to aid us, trusting that the privilege of long service will contribute largely to emphasize our appeal. In the words of Carlyle For still with honest purpose toil we on And if our hopes be upright, straight and true, Far in the east a golden light hall dawn, And the bright smile of God come bursting through.' The Schoolroom, in which the bazaar was held, bad been very nicely decorated with art muslins, Japanese lanterns, fans, &c., by Messrs. B. Evans and Co. Amongst those present were —The Rev. and Mrs. Penar Griffiths (Pentre Estyll), the Rev. and Mrs. Evan Jenkins (Walter-road), the Rev. and Mrs. R. Thomas (Landore), the Rev. and Mrs. D. Rees (Paraclete. Newton), and the Rev. B. Morris (Clydach). In the absence of Mr. W. Williams i^Maesy- gwernen), the opening ceremony was performed by Mrs. T. Edwards. In a neat little speech the latter said her fatner (Mr. Williams) was very sorry he was unable to attend owing to his having been called away on business. Mrs. Edwards, in conclusion, expressed the wish that their efforts would meet with the success they deserved. (Hear, hear.) The Rev. D. Phillips (the esteemed pastor) proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Mrs. Edwards. This was seconded by Mr. T. Leyshon, and carried with acclamation. The business of buying and selling was then proceeded with. In the evening an entertainment, consisting of vocal and instrumental music, was given in the class-room, under the direction of Messrs. W. Leyshon and R. Charles. This (Friday) afternoon the proceedings will be opened by Dr. E. B. Evans, J.P. The following are the stallholders :— CHURCH STALL.—Mrs. B. Williams, Mrs. Thomas. Mrs. T. Howells, Mrs. T. H. Leyshon, Mrs. Jenkins, Mrs. Atherton, and the Misses S. M. Williams, C. Smith, C. Davies, and S. Williams. FANCY STALL.—The Misses E. Davies, Phoebe Charles, M. Waltprs, Susie Leyshon, E. A. Davies, M. A. Kift, M. E.Rowland, C. Evans, and G. Jones. FRUIT AND FLOWER STALL.—The Misses M. L., Rebe and Diana Williams, and Miss M. Stephens. MISCKLLANEOUS STALL.—Mr. H. Leyshon, Miss Thyrza Williams, Mr. W. Lee, and Miss Susie Williams. SWEETS STALL.—The Misses R. Jones, M. E. Henry, and L. Thomas. GROCERY STALL.—Mr. Wm. Owens, and the Misses c. Rees and Peek. BRAN TrB. -The Misses W. Lloyd. S. A. Leyshon, and Bessie Rowland. REFRESHMENT STALL.—Mesdames Phillips, Wm. Davies, J. Williams, T. Davies, and Roach, Miss E. Davies and R. Leyshon.

THE GRAXD THEATRE, The boards at the Grand Theatre. Singleton- street, are occupied this week by Mr. W. E. Lang'iey's Company (including Miss Beryl Montague) in a new romantic drama, entitled At the Foot of the Altar." The piece is very sensational, and full of exciting- situations. "THE DANDY FIFfH" EXT WEEK. The attraction next week at the Grand is Messrs. Geo. R. Sims and Clarence C. Corri's comic military opera, "The Dandy Fifth." in three acts. The 'jompany which will produce the piece is a very good one. ani there is a full chorus.

GOWERTON" & DISTRICT NOTES AND NEWS. By OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT] Colonel J. R. ^Vright. The Mount. Gowerton Cantain W. C. Wright, The Firs and Captain Digby NVilliims have gone to Lavernock to serve with the Royal Glamorgan Artillery. Mrs. J. R. "Iright is recovering gradually after a severe illness. Private Trevor Neyland. 3rd Glamorgan Rifle Volunteers. who has volunteered for Soutn Africa, was presented a few days ago by Mr. David Roberts, at the Conservative Club, with a purse containing £ 6 in gold, and a silver flask. Patriotic speeches were made by Captains Le vis and Mitchell. and Rev. R. Jackett. The following- are the names of the candidates nominated on Tuesday for memHer-h:p on the Cockett School Board :—Edward W. Bolney cler- gyman, Pantysifi. Sketty: John Davies. Cadle House, minister of the gospel: Alfred Edward Evans, The Parsonage. Waunarl'vdd. clprk in hojy orders Thomas D. Jenkins, Ra enhill. ac- countant David Lewis, IVaunarlw, butcher D. O. R-ees. Shetty, Congregational minister; Philip Richards, The Hill, colliery proprietor: and W. Walters, W aunarlwydd. merchant. "THE CAMBRIAN" is on sale at Mr. W. D. Williams. Gowerton; and Mrs. Llewelyn,. Gorseinon.

PONTARDULAIS. [BY OuR OWN CORRESPONDENT.J LIVERMORE BROS.-This well-known minstrel troupe performed at the Public Hall on Monday evening. There was a good house and & splendid programme was gone through by the company. PREACHING SERVICES. Special preaching- services were held at Carmel Baptist Chapel, Pontlliw, on Sunday and Monday last. The offi. iatinz ministers werp :— Revs. D. Davies, Felinfoel, and O. Waldo James, Cardiff. ROAD IMPROVEMENT.—Thanks directly to the Glamorgan County Council, and indirectly to the Llandilo-Talvbont Parish Council, a footpath is in course of construction along our principal thoroughfare, Swansea-road The pavement will extend from the Bolgoed to the Railway Station, and already we can detect signs of a very much needed improvement. With the advent of the light and the adornment of the lamp-posts, local folk will be delighted at the great and good changes brought about. CRICKET.—Prospects of a successful season make an appearance at last. For the last couple offseasons there has been no representative team here, all efforts having failed to procure a suit- able field. This difficulty has now been success- fully surmounted. Mr. J. Roberts, Board Schools, one of the veterans of the cricketing fraternity of the district, has been prevailed upon to accept the captaincy. Several" of the old cracks have also signified their willingness to play: and there is ample talent. A successful season to the P.C.C. SERVICE OF SONG.—On Thursday evening last a service of song was given at Hermon C.M. Chapel by the Band of Hope Choir of the Church. Mr. Thomas Davies, Birchgrove House, with his usual tact and ability, presided over a numerous audience. Mr. Owen Jones conducted, and the efforts of the youthful choristers were exceedingly well-received. The solos, Ac., were well rendered by the iollowing :-The Misses M. A. Williams, Bessie Moreans, Ellen Mort, Bronwen Heycock, and Olive Richards and Messrs. Goronwy Jones and Oliver D. Walters. :\11" Jenkin Thomas and Miss Sarah A-. Hopkins acted as accompanists. The proceeds of the concert will be devoted to the funds of the chapel. MINISTERIAL CALL.—Pontardulais people, and the Congregationalists of the place in particular, will rejoice to learn that Mr. Penrv A. Evans (Fred), the youngest son of the late Rev. T. Penry Evans, pastor of Hope Chapel, has reoeived and accepted a unanimous call from the Congregational Church at Llandudno, North Wales. Mr. Evans is at present a student in Bangor College, and he will take up the duties of his pastorate forthwith. A host of friends and well-wishers unite in wishing the young minister all happiness and blessing in the discharge of the arduous duties of his calling.

LLANSADWRN. BIRD LIFE IN SPRING. THE CUCKOO IN THE VALE OF TOWY. It is pleasant to turn from excitinc war news and stirring letters from the front to the contem- plation of the milder aspects of univeral nature. Spring has many charms to the observant mind. The song of birds, the budding leaf and lengthen- ing day afford a continual and unalloyed pleasure. The re-appearance of migratory birds mark a decided change in the climatic conditions, and are ever welcome to their accustomed haunts. The cuckoo, this delightful visitant, the messen- ger of spring, now is heard again, and woods her welcome ring. With her comes the swallow, the swift, the sandpiper, and ariost of others, but the most marked are the cuckoo and the swallow, owing to the unique and peculiar note of the one. and the fondness of the other for human habita- tion. We enter below a record of the first appearances of these welcomed visitors as observed in the Vale of Towy for upwards of 30 years. RECORD KEPT BY ALDERMAN BEVAN, LLANSADWRN. Swallow first seen Cuckoo first heard 1863 Aprill7 April 22 4 „ 20 22 5 „ 27 25 6 16 21 7 ,,19 25 8 20 26 9 24 „ 23 1870 20 22 1 24 28 2 18 25 3 20 26 4 22 27 5 20 25 6 17 24 7 16 22 8 22 28 9 20 25 1880 25 o'j e „ 23 it 7 25 07 S 21 04 9 „ 22 29 1890 „ 26 03 I ,,19 24 17 23 j, lb 18 „ 20 24 1-9 23 21 25 7 22 „ 27 8 16 22 9 29 26 1900 18 26 Record mislaid for a few years after 1380. The various stages of the cuckoo's progress, during its sojourn in our midst, have been noted' not inaptly, in the popular couplet :— ''In April-come he will: In May—sings all day In June he alters bis tune In July—prepares to fiy Come August—then, go he must."

DUKE OF B^AUFORT AND MR. EDWARD STRICK. Mr. Edward Strick, the late Coroner, and one of the best known and most respected solicitors in South Wales, recently received a letter from the Duke of Beaufort. It is a letter which any one might be proud to receive. Mr. Strick, who, we are glad to state, is in fairly good health, de- serves be high compliment paid to him by the Duke. The letter is as follows :— "19, CURZON STREET, W. April 22nd, 1900. "DEAR MR. STRICK, —I have received with regret your letter announcing your wish to resign the office of Coroner for the Seigniovies of Gower and Kilvey. I am sorry the state of your health compels you to take this step, but no doubt, under the circumstance*, it is a wise one, and I therefore reluctantly accept year resigna- tion. I hope next time I am able to visit Swansea that I may have an opportunity of calling upon you, and thanking you personally for the efficient way in which you have always carried out the duties of your office.—Believe me, yours very truly, "BEAUFORT."

THE TRADE OF THE PORT AND DISTRICT. SPECIAL REPORT BY OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT. SWANSEA, THURSDAY. There has been nothing special in the trade of the port during the past week, but on the whole there is a slight increase over the corresponding period of last year. The import trade was fairly active, and shows an increase of 6.000 tons, whilst the ex- ports are 3,000 tons short. The entries of shipping in ballast amount to 25,722 tons, as against 28,188 tons the pre- vious week, and 19,522 tons last year. The imports comprise From France, pitwood and general cargo; Spain, pyrites, copper, iron. and arsenical ores; Germany. general; Holland, general nd tin shearings; Rusia, grain; and New York, general. The shipments of coal include — France, 15,222 tons; Italy, 1,686 tons; Germany, 6.510 tons; Holland, 2,030 tons; Tunis, 1.540 tons; Cape of Good Hone., 3.360 tons; United States, 1,890 tons. Patent Fuel. — France, 1,985 tons; Italy, 2,800 tons; Russia, 1,000 tons; Algeria, 5,200 tons. The clearances of tinplate and general goods amount to 3,831 tons, including— France, 471 tons; Germany, 500 tons; Holland, 750 tons; Copenhagen and St. Petersburg. 1,200 tons; Belgium, 230 tons: Cape of Good Hope, 60 tons; New York, 400 tons; and Baltimore, 220 tons. IMPORTS COASTWISE.—Pig-iron, 2,451 tons; scrap iron and steel. 1,339 tons; steel nails, 386 tons; ingot moulds, 50 tons; blende ore, 180 tons; burnt ore. 165 tons; pitch. 1.106 tons; building material, 682 tons: grain, 662 tons; hay, 45 tons; flour. 88 tons; potatoes, 117 tons; manure, 285 tons; fish, 10 tuns; sundries, 777 tons. IMPORTS FOREIGN.—France, pitwood. 2.944 tons; general, 300 tons; Huelva, iron pyrites, 1.800 tons; copper ore, 1.159 tons; Barcelona, arsenical ore, 69 tons: Bilbao, iron ore, 950 tons; Russia, barley. 2.335 tons (Weaver and Co."); Hamburg, general, 700 tons; Holland, tin shearings, 300 tons; general, 200 tons: New York, general, 180 tons. Imports. 19,280 tons; and exports foreign, 49.791 tons, com- pared with 13.837 tons and 52,417 tons respec- tively last year. 4 C"' EXPORTS FOREIGN. — Coal. o4,S/o tons; patent fuel. 10.985 tons; and tinplates and general goods, 3,831 tons.

'HORNIMAN'S TEA invigorates in the Morning refreshes at Noon, and soothes at the Evening meal. Sold in the Swansea District by — Mr. Price, Grocer, Jwmbwrla: Evans' Stores, Morriston; Evans, Grocer, Plasmarl Harding, Landore; Jones, 178, High-street; Tavies and Co., 49, Gorpe-Iane, 23, Ffynone-street, and CoMege- street; Jones, ao, New Oxford-street; Davies, SO. High- street: Bonnett, HeathfieM-street; Chapman, Mansr:1- tr<et; Clark, Oxford .street and Beach-street: Davies Bros., Oxford-street; J.T. Davies,Walter-road Havard, Chemist; Evans, Walter-road J. Jones.'VRssai1-square and Forestfach I..Jones, High-street; Matthews. St. Helen's-ro-V'l tfarlby, Mansel-street; Griffiths and Co., Growers, fit. Thomas: J. E. Thomas, Walter-road; tTatioip.l Stores, so, Hi?h-street; Taylor and Co., Ltd., Castle-square, and at 99, Oxford-street, 33, Waiter-road, 100, Bryn-v-mor-roail, and the Bunns, Mumbles; Williams, Grocer; Moore. Brynmill; Watkine, Grocer, Abercrave.

THE DILLWYN HOCKEY CLUB. Last week the Dillwyn Hockey Slub termi- nated its second season with an evening prac- tise. followed by a supper in the pavilion at Singleton Abbey. The absence of the cap- tain, Major Forbes, and hon. sec.. Mr. Herbert Forester, occasioned much regret: the former was unavoidably detained by his military duties, while lr. Forester was un- able, through illness, to attend. Most of the playing members were present, and the guests included Miss Griffith, the Misses Bath (Alltyferin), Miss Plant, Captain Bath and officers of th? Glamorganshire Artillery Militia, Mr. Sant, Mr. Ivor Sant, and Mr. Cook (Port Talbot). The weather was all that could be desired. Play commenced at six o'clock, and continued until darkness put an end to what proved the most enjoyable game of the season. The supper—the arrangements for which had been carried out in a recherche manner by a ladies committee, consisting of Miss M. Forester, the Misses Talfourd Strick and Miss 73orothy Bill—proved a great suc- cess. After the usual loyal and patriotic toasts, Mr. E. H. Perkins proposed the health of Miss Dillwyn, who was the founder of the Club. Miss Dillwyn. in reply, spoke of the admirable work done by the Club during the season, which was illustrated by the fact that out of all the club matches played, only two had been lost, and in conclusion proposed a coidial vote of thanks to Lord Swansea for his kindness in lending the ground, which waj unanimously carried. Other toasts followed, including that of the hon. sec., pro- posed by Miss Gladys Strick, and the ladies Committee by Mr. Sant, after which the even- ing was brought to a close by singing the National Anthem.

THE GOWER ROADS. TO THE EDITOR OF "THE CAMBRIAN." SIR,—The following appeared in a paragraph in The Cambrian for last week, viz.:—"The other week we commented upon the action of the Glamorgan County Council in erecting cyclists' danger-posts throughout Gower, and upon the fact that this welcome innovation was largely the outcome of the enterprise of Mr. H. Morton Hedley." I have to point out that the facts of the matter are not as therein stated. The Gower Rural District Council, without any prompting from outside, applied to the Cyclists' Tourinlr Club for warning hoards for certain hills within their district. The Club having undertaken to give the boards and pay half the cost of erecting them, the Council then had them erected, and paid the other half of the cost of doing so. Please make this correction in your next issue. —Yours truly, H. J. IND. Victoria Chambers, Oxford-street, Swansea, 2nd May, 1900.

RELIGIOUS FREE THOUGHT IN SWANSEA. TO THE EDITOR OF CAMBRIAN." SIR,—It must surprise many besides myself to read the two articles on the abQve subject in your last issue, and to learn how much in the dark and behind the times all other re- ligious bodies are supposed to te. One would think that from no pulpit but the Unitarian Pulpit of Swansea was anything taught but what was antiquated and musty. I felt sorry that we were all so ignorant of the great advances made in Biblical criticism and scien- tific theology, and regret the many opportu- nities lost of hearing the newest phase of re- ligious and scientific doctrine expounded, un- trammelled by creed formula, from the pulpit of the Unitarian Chapel at Swansea. But I am afraid that the ministers of the churches and chapels of Swansea will be loath to admit that they are content Sunday after Sunday to ignore the vast advances that have been made in Biblical criticism and scientific knowledge; that they are ignorant, or fail to appreciate the labours of such men as Hux- ley, Bradley. Fiske, Briggs, Flint. Matthew Arnold and others; that they are unaware of the development of Christian doctrine and too timid to allow what they read to influence any of their pulpit addresses. I am sure that vrrv few clergymen or ministers to-day understand or teach the orthodox doctrines of the church as they were understood and taught twenty years ago. I suppose that no Sunday School teacher believes the literal sense of such passages as Gen. iii., 1; Vll., 23; Jos. x.. 13, etc. No theologians have done more than Canon Driver, Canon Chegne, Canon Gore, Dean Farrar in the Church of England; and Dr. Dale and Principal Fair- bairn, amongst orthodox Nonconformists, to acknowledge the value of the most advanced Biblical and scientific criticism, regardless of its orthodoxy or its seeming antagonism to creeds and formulas. An examination of any of these men's writings will show that it is not Unitarians alone who recognise that such ideas as holiness, God. atonement, in- carnation, resurrection, have wider mean- ings than those read into them by the divines of twenty years ago. Unitarian ministers are not the only men who have seen that theological knowledge, like all other branches of knowledge, is continually pro- gressing and advancing, and that i he minister who fails to make use of the latest scholar- ships of the day. whether it be in the domain of science or of theology, scon finds that his ministry is unheeded. Whether the Uni- tarian congregation of Swansea has gained numerically during the last 20 years I am unable to say. These facts are instructive: Unita.riani~m is not gaining in England or in Wales. The number of congregations in England and Wales generally described as Unitarian is about three hundred, nearly half of which date from between 1662 and 1750. In Scotland there are only seven Uni- tarian congregations. In Ireland about forty. This doc, not sc-em to indicate that either dogmas, creeds or formulas have hitherto been found difficult of acceptance by the vast numbers who still profess allegiance to the orthodox churches in every village and town throughout Christendom. B. J. Gowcrton, May 1st, 1900.

THE HOUSE SrRGEONSKII' OF THE HOSPITAL. —A special me.niner of the Hospital Committee was held on Wednesday to appoint a house surgeon. There was only one applicant—Mr. Frank J. Hathawaj-, M.B., Ch B., of London— and he was appointed, the scar-ity of applicants being attributed on the one hand to the war, and on the other to the fact that the committee did not "hc.nge their staff at the time when joung I surgeons were all seeking appointments.

WEDDING AT GOWERTON. JONES-JAMES. On Wednesday, at the Three Crosses Chapel, Gowerton, a very pretty wedding was celebrated, the contracting parties being Mr. John Lloyd Jones, fourth son of Mr. Samuel Jones, colliery proprietor, Dunvant, and Miss Elizabeth James, eldest daughter of Councillor R. H. James, Cefnstylle. The bride is highly popular and well-known in and around Gowerton, where her sunny disposi- tion and excellent soprano voice have won for her many friends and admirers. The interesting event, therefore aroused general interest, and right loyally did the villagers honour it. Long before the hour fixed for the ceremony the interior of the sacred edifice was crowded, and the roadways leading to the chapel thronged. The Rev. J. John, assisted by the Rev. E. G. Davies, Dunvant, officiated. The bride, who was given away by her father, looked radiant, and her exquisite dress was much admired. It was of fawn-coloured silk, trimmed with pessimen- terie, with hat to match. She also carried a handsome shower bouquet of orange blossoms and choice Sowers, the gift of the bridegToom. The bridesmaids were Miss F. A. James (bride's sister), Miss F. Phillips, Newport, and Miss M. A. Jones, Treboeth. They were very prettily dressed in blue, trimmed with white silk. Mr. Samuel B. Jones (brother of the bridegroom) was the best man. As the bridal party left the church, Miss M. A. Jones, Treboeth, played Mendlesshon's "Wedding March." She also played a bridal march as the bride entered the building. Among the guests noticed in the chapel were —Mr. Tom Jones, Dunvant; Mr. W. H. Jones, Swansea: Mr. D. P. Walters, Gowerton Mr. and Mrs. David Walters, Gowerton; Mr. W. H. James, Swansea; and Miss L. Walters, Gowerton. Subsequent to the ceremony at the Church, a reception was held at Cefnstylle. A recherche luncheon was served, after which the wedding presents, which included many useful and costly articles, were viewed and much admired by those present. The happy couple left early in the afternoon for Bath, where the honeymoon is to be spent. The bride travelled in a black and white coat and skirt and white sailor hat. LIST OF PRESENTS. Bride to Bridegroom, gold links Bridegroom to Bride, gold brooch and diamond ring Mrs James (Bride's mother), household linen and cheque Mr Samuel Jones (Bridegroom's father), cheque Mr R. H. James (Bride's father), cheque Mr Tom Jones, Dunvant, piano Mrs Austin, Three Crosses, ornaments Mrs Howells, Three Crosses, hot-water jugs The Misses Thomas. Penclawdd, silver-mounted cakestaiid and butter dish Miss Hopkins, wine decanters Mrs James, Cwmavon, silver-mounted flower vase Mrs David Austin, Three Crosses, flower vase and salt cellars Mrs and Miss Jenkins, cakestand and fruit tray Messrs Armitage and Co., London, silver butter knife and preserve spoons Mr James Rees, Dunvant, silver-mounted butter dish Messrs Kendal and Dent, London, silver teapot Mr Henry Jones, Bishopston, silver cruet stand Mr David Jones, Hareslade, Mumbles, marble clock Miss M. H. Lewis, Ferryside, pin cushions Mrs M. Jones, Ferryside, cheque Mrs Davies, Walterstone, smoking chair Miss E. James, Llandilo, table linen Mr Samuel B. Jones, Dunvant, complete set of table cutlery Miss May Richards, Cefngolau, gold mounted umbrella Mr David Walters. Cefngorwydd, cheque Mrs J. Hoskin. album Miss S. A. Griffiths, Dunvant, silver jam spoon Mrs. J. Ho-kin, Dunvant, silver mounted ink stsnd Mr R. W. Jones, Swansea, silver tea pot Mrs Franc-, Swansea, silver tea pot and stand Miss E. J. G iffithe, Dunvant, silver saltcellars Mr and Mrs Pugh, Three Crosses, jam spoon Miss Morgan, Poundfol cake knife Miss Walters, Gowerton, butter cooler- Mr and Mrs Elliott, Three Crosses, cheque Miss Vaughan, Swansea, silver mounted hot water jug Mr Dd. Williams. Killay, cheque Mr and Mrs J. H. James, Cefngolac, silver cruet Mr and Mrs G. L. Morris, The Park, set of carvers Miss Florrie Phillips. Newport, picture, silver bon bon dishes, and D'Oyieys Mr Yv Jones, JJumbles. breikfa-' cru°t Mr and Mrs H. James, Swansea, cheque Mrs Hopkin, Swansea, crumb brush and tray Mr W. H. Jones, Swansea, cheque Mr J. P. Jones. Swansea, ehecue The Misses Gladys. Alice and Jennie Jamefr (bride's handworked cushions Miss Frances A. James. pair of entree dishes and cushion The bride's brot'.tr. tea. dinner and dessert service.

LLANSAMLET. WEDDING. A very pretty but quiet wedding was solemnised at the Parish Church, Llansamlet, on Tuesday morning Inst, the contracting parties being MI'. Thomas Watkins, (son of the late Mr. William Watkins, Trallwn-road), and Miss Katherine Williams (daughter of Mr. John Williams, Pant- y-cawr, Llansamlet). The Rev. J. Williams, B.A., vicar, officiated. The bride was given away by her father. There were two bridesmaids. Miss E. A. Williams and Miss May W illiams (sister and niece of the bride). Mr. James Williams (brother of the bride), was the best man.