The Cambrian

A FREE DRINK. Send a postcard to G. Foster Clark and Co., 4,048, "Eiffel Tower" Factory, Maidstone, for a free sample of Eiffel Tower Lemon- ade, enough to make a pint of this delicious Summer beverage. 38 Millions of Lemons were used last year for making" Eiffel Tower" Lemonade. Be sure and obtain "Eiftel Tower" Lemonade, as substitutes pre sometimes offered. Of all Grocers, Chemists, etc., but if you cannot get it, a bottle will be sent from above address sufficient to make 2 gallons, post free for 42d. 1"l- Ii'l'.E1! l"f'S1.1 I I I 1 1

esiiiLiwa iHMtt Two Callous for4M

Why should a thirsty man always carry a watch?—Because there's a spring inside it.} Gentleman (to 'village cobblei): W ha- s < v,'| vp-low powder you're tasmg so constaiK- lv"my friend?" 'Cobbler: "It's snuff- -Tr-ii snuff." Gentleman: Is it any «.nod? Vm somewhat troubled that way my- Cobbler (with the air of a man who c-ouid say more if he chose): exl. I ve hua catarrh for niore'n thirty years, and I va toou. nothin' for it but this."

ABERAVON AND PORT TALBOT. NOTES AND NEWS. [EY "EAMELEE.'M Of course, the ancient borough had a hand in the cheering- over the relief of Mafeking, if cheering it could be described. Swansea were the first to let the district know that the good news had at last arrived, by means of the great uproar which it was making. The sound of its hooters, bells, & could be distinctly heard as it came along on the still nisrht air about 10 o'clock on Friday. Word quickly passed round that Mafeking had really been relieved. Abr-ravon had a little demonstration on its own account on Thursday afternoon on the mere strength of a rumour, when works closed up, and the afternoon was given up to general rejoicings. The narrow streets were quickly thronged, hooters were set goinsr, ar,d the Church bells were rang, but it was quite 11 o'clock before the bulk of the inhabitants knew what was happening, a good many of them having reared to rest. They, however, got up, and rumour has it that some joung lady in the fashion* Me pad of the town actually cam" out of doors attired only in her nightdress. The Walnut Tree Hotel was the centre of gravitation, and hundreds assembled in its vi"inity. cheering", lu.-tily othe: s par",ded the streets to the accom- paniment of accordeons, tin cans, et" H indeed, aBytbirg upon which a noise coold be made louder than their own natural organs, and not until an early hour was the din and uproar hushed up. Tbe streets were ablaze on Saturday with flags and buntir.g. The tin workers left off at midday -1; hours earlier than usual. The Mayor sent the Town Crier round notifying a public procession at 3.o'clock, but lone before that hour crowds gathered in the streets, and for a consider- able time business was practically suspended. A procession was formed outside the PoliJe Station J. which consisted of tue local police, un-ier iDspector Maodonald some, members of the Fire Uric ado in uniform, und-r Captain Whitelaw a detachment of the 2nd Y.B. Welsh Regiment, in chaige of Major David, with regimental bani then followed the Mayor, Councillor Wood, and several others on horseback whilst in a. laudau were seated the Town Clerk, the Deputy Mayor (Aid. Smith), and Aid. W. Williams. The prin-.i- pal streets of the town and district w«re piraded, and the utmost enthusiasm prevailed. Throughout the day the tawx was crowded with visitors until a late hour. All local topics were overlapped by the glad tidinsrs of gr>-a.t joy wisieh the reliei 01 Maietiiug raised in the hearts of the people. Even the ratepayers' meeting over the Post Omce question was forgotten. Ab"ravon made two important moves in the direction of progress last week. They decided to raise the dignity of the town by insisting upon having a Branch Post Office, insfead of the misorab'e hole-and-corner office which does duty for a Po-t Office at present, and at a public miction sale they purchased, at a remarkably low 1 figure, some freehold land which is situated in the heart of the town. with the object, it is understood, of its conversion into a recreation ground or something of the sort. This is business, and one can only hope that the most important of all schemes, that of the provision of an adequate water supply, will, at last, be pushed on with the same business tact. There are, at least, half-a-dozen schemes ferment- ing in the minds of the Councillors, but until a first-class water engineer is called in, the ferment- ation stage is likely to go on. Surely the Town Council have enough material out of winch an ei'srineer would be aule to evolve a practical scheme. Aid. Walsh does not like the idea of the Gis Committee running the Gas Works. He does not object to their purchasing coal and meters, &c., but he does object to their appointing or dismiss- ing a Manager, without the Council having a say in the matter, and if he cannot bring about a change in this respect, he threatens to dissolve the Committee, if he cm, nnd allow the whole Council to attend to the business. Would this be a retrograde step P It certainly would not tend to the despatch of business. The Council appoints the Gas Committee, and they certainly should hive confidence in the gentlemen they select. The bulk of the work now-a-days, in matters municipal and otherwise, are done by Committees, and much labour is saved, and also precious time. It is hardly thouaht, however, that Aid. Walsh is serious in his resolve. We are pleased to announce that Mr. Ernest Tennant, son of the respected Town Clerk (Mr. Marmaduke Termant), has passed his preliminary examination, which was held at Bristol the other day. In honour of the Queen's 81st birthday and the relief of Mafeking, Thursday was observed as a general holiday. All the shops were closed and the school children were g-i"ell a day's holiday. Flags were freely displayed in the streets. There was a County Court sitting on Wednes- day, but very little business was transacted, and the court rose shortly after rioon. One of the solicitors attending the court jocularly remarked that times were too good. ABERAVON SCHOOL BOARD. The monthly meeting of this body was held at the Council room, Aberayon, on Tuesday after- noon, Mr. John Davies occupying the chair, und there were also nrosent Mr. Wm. Williams, Mr. H. J. Stokes, Mr. Reos Thomas, and Mr. Tom Davies.- It was reported that the tender of Mr. S. T. Rees at JE14 had been accepted for the levelling of the Sandfielda School piayground.— The vacant position of assistant teacher in the boys' department of the Mountain Side School was filled up by the appointment of a Mr. Edwards, of Maindee, at the salary of £60 per annum. — The other business transacted was purely of a routine chai&cter, and of no public interest. ABERAVON COUNTY POLICE COURT. MONDAY. [Before Major D. R David (in the chair), and •Messrs. L. H. Byass, Edward Davies, Lewis ) Lewis, J. M. Smith, and Danied Evans.1 EXCUSALS FROM PAYMENT OF POOR RATES. — Mr. Alfred Roberts presented a list of persons who had been excused by the Overseers of Michaelstone Lower from the payment of their rates. The aggregate sum was £2 lis. 6d. He asked for confirmation of the lists by the Justices, and tba same was granted. Mr. J. N. Coon, on behalf of the Overseers of Margam, presented a similar list amounting to £ 4 5s. 9d., ano the list was confirmed. FALSELY PRETENDING TO BE A TRAVELLER. — Stephen Da.vies, of Tyisha-row, Cwmavcn, was charged with obtaining beer from the Royal Oak, Pontrhydyfen. by falsely representing himself to be a traveller on tbe 13th inst. Davies did not appear. Constable Jno. Jenkins said that on the eveuing in Ejuestion he sa.w the defendant sittinar down in the kitchen of the Royal Oak witb a pint of boor before him. Davies gave his name as Stephen Davies, of Water-street, Aberavon, which would be outside the 3 mile limit,, but on making enquiries he found that he resided at Cwmavon, which would be -veil inside the 3 mile limit. A fine of £1 and costs was imposed. | DRUNKS ONLY.—Morgan Gray, Enoch Jones, and Frederick Smith, three men hailing from the Glyncorr.vg, ^District, were each fined 10s. and costs for this offence on Sunday, the 13tb inst. costs for this offence on Sunday, the 13tb inst. Constables Normington and Sparks proved the ca-es. STEALING CHAFF.—Wm. Davies and Frank Davies, two farm servants, in the emtdoy of Mr. R. E. Marendaz, of the Court Farm, were charged with stealing a bag of chaff of the value of 3s., Mr. Marendaz's property, on the 17th May inst. Constable Alfred Brice said that about quarter to twelve on the nieht in question he was on duty at Port Talbot Station, when he saw two men come from the direction of the Court Farm close by. One of them was carrying the hag of chaff produced. He acoosted the men, whom he identified as the two prisoners, Wm. Davies said he was taking the chaff to a Mrs. Jenkins by his master's orders, but on being taken back to the farm (after some trouble) Mr. Marendaz denied giving Davies any instructions of the kind. The men were then lodged in tho cells. There was really no evidence against Frank Davies, and he was discharged. Wm. Davies said he was sorry, but not guilty. He was, however, fined 30s. and costs. ALLEGED .WOUNDING CASE AT CWMAVON. A MAN'S EAR BITTEN OFF.-Richar1 Davies, a copper-worker, of Pelly-street, Cwmavon, was charged on the informa.tion of Samuel Teague, a labourer, of Cwmavon, with unlawfully wounding him on the 14th inst., by biting- a portion of his Wt ear off. Mr. Jestyn Jeffreys, solicitor, Neath, appeared for the complainant, and Mr. E. T. Evans, for the defence. Mr. Jeffreys said that with their Worships' consent he proposed to I withdraw the charge. What took place was the re-ult of a drunken brawl between the men, and the defendandunt was agreeable to make Teague a Stuall payment for his loss of time in the matter. He did not think if the Bench heard the whole of the circumstances of the case that the charge of wounding would be sustained. The Belch, however, after a short consultation in private, decided to hear the evidence, and intirn- ated that such a serious charge could not be with- drawn without some very good cause being shown. Teague then went into the box, and said that about 7 p.m. on the evening in question he visited the Copper House Inn, Cwmavon, aud there met the defendant. He was sober when he went in, but when he left, or rather turned out, he was drunk. He had a'.me words with Davies, and a scuffle ensued, during which hefeU to the ground. He could not remember what took place as he was stunned by the fall. He was. drunk at this time. He did not know that a portion of his ear was bitten off until the next morning-, r Teague gave his evidence in a very unwilling f manner, and professed to have little if any knowledge of what really happened, alth-.iug-i when he applied for the summons, he distin-tiy told the clerk that issued it that he was struck duwn by Davies, who fell upon him and bit off his ear, and he produced the portion of the ear to him. In reply to the Bench Mr. Jeffreys said that he was not prepared to offer any further evidence. Teague said that although several men were present, none o' them were able tc^ay wh it happened. The Bench said that the evidence was very unsatisfactory and they decided to adjourn the further hearing of the case until Saturday (to-morrow), and in the muaat.ime they wouid in. struct the police to get further evidence. Tne care was then adjourned. ABERAYON TOWN COUNCIL. SPECIAL MEETING OF THE HIGHWAY COMMITTEE. A special meeting' of th« Highwny and General Purposes Committee was held on Tuesday after- noon. Aid. J. M. Smith presided, and there were also present—The Mayor (Councillor Evans), Aldermen Stokes, Walsh, and YV n-iams, and Councillors John Davies, Win. Wiliiam3. F. E. Perry, Hy. Jon"s. T. A. Burgess, J. H. Williams, Sees Tnoma- and Moses Thomas. The meeting had to consider t1,o question of retaining further the services of tie Assistant Surveyor (Mr. Roland Dudley), who h.-«d been temporarily engitged for three months. The Surveyor (Mr. Roderick) produced a Jarg-* nuaiber of plans upm which Mr. Dudley h^d been engaged. The work arising out of the plan- < wouid involve &n outlay of nearly £20,000: and included a proposed nev road and bridge at Peutyla, an aaxi-iary scheme of water supply, Victoria-road and pier improvement, and sundry other smaller schemes. Mi'. Roderick s-tid that Mr. Dudley had not yet completed the pi ms for the whole of the sr-hemes in hand., and 1.e advised his further retention, and it was ultimately resolved to continue iiis services for another two months from the date of the last Council me-ting. A vacancy having arisen in the office of Inspector of Common Lodging Houses and Hackney Carriages, Police-Inspector Alexander McDonald was unanimously appointed to tne position. The question was next discussed as to the ways and means of raising tho balauee_ of tee purchase money for the completion of the pur- chase of the Corporation field and other property which the Corporation bought at tbe recent auction sale, when it was left to a sub-committee consisting of the Chairman an i -Councillors Davies and Moses Thomas to make the he-t arrangements they could with the Borough Treasurer until snch time as the Council ;;ad obtained a pelTüanent Joan. The sarno gentlemen were aho deputed t, make enquiries as to the sale of other property adjoining that pu-ebased by the Council iJi- street improvements. It was decided to accept the off?r of Messrs. Pearson and Son, Ltd. (the dock contractors), of £20 for the sale of seme piles end "ross_ pieces, to form the approach to t e North Pier and Promenade. FRIGHTFUL ACCIDENT AT THE DOCKS.—A man named Hugh Mc-Pberson was shocking v injured on the Rhondda and Swan-3ea Bav Hail- way at the docks on Tuesday morning. He was found en the line with both his legs cut off, and his head was also badly injured. He was a ship's fireman, and hailed frem Govan m Scotland. Ùr. Davie? attended to his injuries, and ':e was subsequently conveyed to the Swansea Hospital in a prostrate condition. A PONTRHYDYFEN V.'OUNDING CASS .—WM. Rees, a labourer, of Velindre, Aberavon, WaS brought up in custody at an occasional Court at Ahet-avoncharg-ed before Mr. J. M. Smith with wounding a man named Edwin Peilii.js, by cutting him with a knife in the neek and face on tho 21st M iy. Evidence of the arrest was given by Constable John Jenkins, and Rees was remandeJ till 10 30 on Saturday (to-morrow).

BRITON FERRY. NEWS AND NOTES. NOTBS BY THE BRITON FERRY WANDERER. Briton Ferryites are a right loyal people, and the relief of Mafeking was wildly ^celebrated on Friday night, although we were ali ablaze on Thursday as well, by a false report. That Steel Works syren sends ail and sundrv spinning with excitement. I happened to be reading an interesting- book when it resounded with shrieks on Friday night, and before I knew what I was doing found myself in a corner of the room standing on one leg, saying nothing but seething with excitement, until the sound of tramping feet outside lent motion to my uplifted limb, which quickly placed me with the giddy throng in Vil- liers-street. In order to have some tangible object for our enthusiasm the Fire Brigade wa.s brought out and some damage was done to the property or pro-Boers. An extension of time was also granted to, or taken by, some pubs, for tbe purpose, I suppose, of providing liquid to damp our ardour, but the ordeal appears to have been too muchior a tew, who bad to be carried home temporarily paralysed. We never thought there were so many instru- nvnts for tbe production of sound in the locality till Thursday and Friday in last woek. Hooters, buzzers, syrens, detonators, bells, guns, pistols, cooking utensils, mouth organs, coneertinas, bugles, etc., etc. It is mysterious where they were all kept before Mafeking was relieved, aud where they have gone to since. The Fire Brigade turned out in fine form on Friday night, para-led the town, displaying coloured lights. Did the Journal dee Debuts, Paris, refer to Briton Ferry in its comments on last week's cele- brations ? This is what it said: "The enthusiasm has taken extravagant and sometimes ridiculous forms. It is proved that tnis patriotic enthusiasm is maintained in certain case by the warmth of alcohol. Never wpre the public houses so much adorned with flags, and never so much patronised." I said last week that some pertinent questions would be asked concerning the Councillors' trip to London. I will commence by asking why did the Surveyor go back the second time to town Did be Chairman leave his umbrella behind, or was the pi in of the library taken to the British Museum, in Ilccordünce with my suggestion 'i It hus been taken from that window in Viiliers- street, I see. It is said that the person who is without any mannerisms, who does not bind himself to con- ventionality and etiquette, but who rather de- pends upon those graces which are supposed and expected to belong t) the dignity of man, is tbe individual who has the most winning and sociable manner and the most acceptable and engaging- address and conversation. g To an extent I quite agree that this is so. But I have lately painfully noticed that such un assertion must be qualified and severely restricted. I say lately, because I believe that what I am going- to allude to is rapidiy gaining ground and threatens to pollute almost every conversation we listen to. As I write I have in my mind a numoer of men whohold honourable positions in this little place, and w bo,in virtue of their positions, it they have not sufficient self-esteem, could be expected to demean themselves, in regard to their language particularly, in a respectable and decent manner. I have heard these individuals joining in a con- versation time after time, and the" 'in" variably consists of a wonderful flow o l!1^eou8, objectionable and indecent slang, woithy a dlf. reputable costermonger or navvy. A a^ it i, while being under the necessity oi V'atuig their nonsensical prattle one would wis a there was some means whereby good mannei, and even strict conventionality could be enforced. I suppose there is a reason for everything, ancl in this c»se I believe it will be found to he ID the fact tbat the person who thus lowers himself is devoid of wholesome wit, and acts the fool as an alternative. If the supply of water is limited at this season of the year, after the reservoir has been fall once, what can we expect after a six weeks' drought, say ten years hence ? Is it another new water storage ? The remarks made by Mr. R. H. Biaknoll, M.I.C.E., on Tuesday last, about the Fire Brigade Station and appliances wefe a deserving tribute to the zeal and ardour of Mr. Jones, the captain, and his men. He said it was one of the best kept stations he had seen anywhere in the country. The Glamorgan County Prize for excellence in theory of music at the London College of Music examination in the elementary section, has been won by Mbs Elvira Maude liogers, second daughter of Mr. William Rogers, Osterly-street, Britonferry. MLs Rogers is a pupil of Mi«s Rose Parry, Britonferry. Two weeks ago we reported that the Sev. E. Nicholas, Englisn Congregational Church. Briton Ferry, had declined the charge of t ie Welsh Church, New Quay. Last week he declined another (.-ail, namely, to the pastor-ate of the English Congregational Church at Liandrmdod Wells. It may not be generally known that Bt-i ton ferry Parish covers a larger acreage than Neath. The Britonferry Urban Dist ici has an ar-a of 1,521 acres, while Neath Borough covers 1,161 acres. The Medical Officer presented bis annual report at the U.D.C. meeting on Tuesday last. For the year ended 31st D"c.. 1S99, the number of -is w.i.. 235 (127 boys and ;28 gms), making a birthrate of 318 per cent, p-r RBUum shewing a decrease of 1'7 0:1 the previous year. The number Of deaths in 1339 bad been 129 (57 males and 72 females or 1 51 per cent, per annum, being aa increase OI 12 ye: Gent. on tne previous year. R. H. Bicknell, Esq., M.I.C.E., of the Lo"al Government Board, held an inqairy at the Dis- trict Council Cnamber on Tuesday last, respecting tue proposed loans for parochial purposes. T^s following were sanctioned —, £ 3,000 for Public Library and Offices, to include furnishing. No part ot this amount is to be utiiiz.nl for the pay- ment ot of?.cia:s, eit'ier in the c >nstru ttion 0/ iaamfe»"ia:;oe >f the institution £ 850 for t F>re Brigade and £ 345 ior beaut ,tying th-j tov.n and providing lii-aus ot recreation. Mr. Ebley has handed over to the Chairman of the Fire Brigade Committee the proceeds or tho j iienefit performance. Tne amount is £3. which, it is said, will be utilized in purcbuGing caps and trousemes for the brigade. The trade- men celebrated the Queen's Birthday by closing their business on Thursday. All the Schools were granted a IiOjjdy. There were 40 c.:sesc.E typhoid fever during the last three months of the year. These are the Medical Officer's remarks :— Nearly ail the coses occurred on the west side of the G.W.R., and chiefly on or near the Warren Hill, although some wGra at Giant's Grave. The cause of this epidemic has been clearly traced to the fact that during the warm weather, when tne water supply from the new reservoir was not of a very ?at sfacto.-y char- acter, the inhabitant:) of thi-5neighbourhood were in the h.tbit of obtaining water from a spring situated between tue canal and the river bank. On investigating the matter, it was ascertained that this spring was only a leakage from the canal, c..e water from which must. have been saturated with animal matter." The Infectious Hospital at Giant' Grave has I not been used. There exists among the inhiuit- Routs of this town a sirongiy-rootea objection to being taken to any sucii place, when suffering from an infectious disease." Y Ouii OWN COKSESFONDENT.] CONCERT. The annual concert of the ititson Street, English C-. ngregit:unal Churca, took place on Thursday in iast week. In consequence of toe great qxcitement, caused by thy premature i-uinour1 otlie relief of Mafeking which attracted so many Briton Ferry people to Swansea aud Seata to sea the demonstrations, and that the season foe Cuiioerrs was mtner adva-ict-d, the attendance was comparatively small. Those who were present seemed to oe unanimous iu declar- ing the concert to be the best tnat has been heid at the Congregational Cnuich for many ye^i> Tile work selected was Root's th Triumphant" or the Healing of Naaman," a most charmingly arranged cantata, which lost none uf its charm in tne rendering. Tne c-ioir was assisted by Mi-s S. G. Davies, Trecastle, £ »praii-j Miss Maggie 'W itsin-f, of Neath, con- tral-.o Mr. Ben Davies, Ire tier oe: t, tenor; and Mr. Dd. Morgan, Pontnewydd, bass. Miss Davies is the winner of eight open cham- pion contests, and is now a pupil of Mr. Bowen, of Swansea. She possesses a voice Lat pleases, of wonderful power am clearness. We preuict for Miss Davies, who is still in her teens, a brilliant future, judging from what we already knowof her. Miss Wat kins is well-known in this locality, and throughout a wide areu. outside. She was the successful contralto ac the Oaraiif National Eisteddfod. She has a rich, resourceful voice, full of pathos, and her rendering Of the ballad 0 harp ot my Fathers was very effective. -Y Mr. Ben Davies was a reveiation. He had never been heard in Briton Ferry before, so t'lere was a great deal or speculation as to his qualifi- cations. He is the chief tenor in Mr. Tom Stephen's party, and augurs well to become a oreat artist in the muaic world. We were all delighted with his singing, especially in that difficult piece in the storm scene. We wouid like to near Mr. Davies in some song of his own choice, where b, could have more scope to show what he can do. Mr. D. Morgan is familiar to us, he has at one time "lived with us, but we are never tired of his singing. The committee are to be congratulated upon their good foitune m securing the services of four artistes, all of wnom giving sucti universal satistiiction. THe choir, under the baton of Mr. Fred Thomas acquitted itseif with credit, some of the choruses being obstinately encored. Miss Gower accompanied with ta, te ana precision, and proved a valuable support to the singers. A word of praise il due to iVLis-s Ada Vie-ors for the part she took. She sang well. The orchestra under the leadership of Mr. Ben Jones (comet), consisted 01 Messrs. -S. Venabies T. Thomas, and W. Evaus, first violins- 'Mr. D. Evans, flute; Messrs. T. TTiiirhes *J H. Jones, and J. H. Camming#, Howells, 'cello; and Mr. D. Wini^ms, bass. ^fofi' imme was as loixows PVRT I.°—Triumphant return of the Syrians, ">[r B. Davies j Quartette of Syrian Priests, r'Hail to the Conqueror," Messrs. Jones, Richards, Richards ana Jones Chorus of Syrian people, "He comes," choir; Recit., Syria triumohs," Mr. B. Davies Quartett of Priests, "Hail to the Conqueror," Messrs. Jones, Richards, Richards ana Jones; Caorua Hebrew Captive. Breathe it low, choir Recit., "What are triumphant shouts"; Air, Ye Gods, hear my appeal," Miss Watkins; Recit., "The Passant has passed" Air, Is there no refuge?" Miss Watkins Chorus of Captives, God is our refuge and strength," choir and Mr. B. Davies; I-;t"r Quartett, "I leave the world," Misses Davies and Watkins, and Messrs. Davies and Morsan Chorus of Captives, "The cham- pion comes" choir; Song, Welcome," Miss Wvies Recit. and Air, My heart is bowed Ln » Mr. Morgan ReeiL, "Would tnat my "U^ter Miss Watkins. Miss Davies and Miss A' Vigors; Chorus of Captives. Give unto the Lord, 0 ye miehtv," choir Becit.Cometo to me, maiden," Miss Davies Air, 0 Harp 0. my Fathers," Dtiiss W a-tlsins j Xutsr "Charity." Misses Davies and Watkins, and Messrs. Davies and Morgan Conclusion ot Ballad, "One day in the harvest," Miss Watkins; Recit.. "0 Tale most wonderful." Miss Davies, jlr. B. Davies and Miss Watkins Chorus of Captives, "Jrhovah," choir; R.ejit.Go call the Master," Miss Davies Chorus, The Lord reigneth," choir; R><jcit. and Air," Listen, 0 Naaman," Miss Watkins; Recit., "Go, burdens of silver I give thee," Miss Davies; Recit., But who of this Prophet," Mr. Morgan, Miss Vigors, Miss Davies, Mi-s Watkins, and Mr. B. Davies: Inter qnart tt, "Who daily bids," Misses Davies and Watkins, and Messrs. Davies and Morgan Air, "A cloud is on the mountain brow," Mr. B. Davies ;IChorus of Captives, "The voice of the Lord." choir Recit., The clouds depart"; Song, "The Silver San of Night." Miss Watkins Chorus of Captives, 0, oe it such a night," choir. PART 1I.-R",cit., "The morn.ng birds are singing Sonc, Abana, the light of Damascus" Miss Davies Quartett, of Priests, He rises, the Sun-God," Messrs. Jones, Richards, Richards and Jones Chorus of Captives, "The Chariot," choir, and Misses Davies and Watkins; aoug, Sine to Jehovah," Mr. Morgan Quartett of Priests, The Sun is the fountain, Me-srs. Tones Richards, Richards and Jones; Inter C'la'-tett "Jesus mv all." Misses Dav.es and Watkins' and Messrs. Davies and Morgan; Recit., "Behold, now I know. Mr. Morgan; Quint-'tt, O Thou whose glory," M s-es Davies, Watkins and Vigors, and Messrs. Davies and Morgan; Song and Chorus, "0 Harp of my Either," Miss Watkins and choir Recit., O Maid of Samaria," Mr. Morgan; Song, Go, where glowing and golden," Miss Davies Fmel Chorus, Now to the King Eternal," choir Finale. "God save the Queen." The committee did unwisely in reducing the i-rice of their front seats they have given worse concerts for a greater price. Their patriotic en- thusiasm carried them so far as to order the ringing of the National Anthem both at the open- ing and the close of the concert. DEBATING SOCIETY ANNUAL DINNER. The Circle of Enity Debating Society sat down to its first annual dinner at the R 'yal Dock Hotel on Saturday last. The President. Mr. 1 W Fred. Thomas, occapied the chair. The hostess, Mrs. Norman, catered for the inner man in her usual high class and pilatable manner. Thirty-five members of the Society had come together. There was no lack of talent, and the toasts were interspersed with a variety of enter- taining items. After the toast of "The Queen" had been enthusiastically drunk wirh musical honours, Mr. Wheeler sang "Red, White and Blue," followed by another song. "Masks and Facps," by Mr. W. S. Bevan. Mr. Sam Lewis recit-d the "Twins," and Mr. Fred. Richards sang Nellie Raj- Mr. D. Davies. in proposing- the toast of the "Imperial Forces," srlicl that he wished to include all the Btitish lines of defence, both home and Colonial. The valour of our soldiers had been severely tried in recent events, but the traditions ot their predecessors had been gallantly upheld and handed down to coming generations unsubied. Mr. Evan Jainee, in re^nondiua. sptd tha." the day is not far distant when everv British subject will usinz the gun. and ready, if n^ed be. to lay down his life in defenc? of hearth and horn a< well as of justice and equity. jlr. W. H. Richards sans: Soldiers o' the Queen," Mr. Hewlett recital The Av-s^r.t- Minded Beegar," and Mr. T. Tallamy sang '• The March to Pretoria." Gomer Davies, in proposing thp toast of the C.O.U. apologised for the irregularis of his attendance at the S icietv's dpbites owing to adverse rircumstances, but it would bave be-m an insurmountable circumstance, indeed, which would have kept him away from the dinner that evening. He encouraged the members to persevere in their researches and in aconiring the art ot puohc speaking. It %vas a young- man's duty to be interested in matters public, social, as well as religious. It was the people who ruled the de-times of our great Empire, inasmuch as that toe statesmen were simply their represents- fives, who sat in congress, an.l voiced the opinions of the public. "He was proud of his Soc ety. and would never hive cause to be ashamed of being a member of it. Mr. G-orge Mort, in responding, said f at, being the secretary of the Society, be ras in a. positi-n to know the status and the progress of it. Ihe past wa« the fourth and the best session sine- the Society's formation. H-^ reminded the members of the origin of tbo C.O.U. Debating Society, when some eleven friends met at a private house in Rsg^n'treet. Great improve- ment in the art of debating was noticed. T e debates had always b-'en taken up zealously, yet in a, frb-ndly spirit. There were many prominent men in the land who looked bick with pleasure i and gratitude to the time when they started their pu"c cl-tllp,!r some simiUr institution es the Circle of Unity and he honed that some of tbe present members of the Society woull some day be leaders of the people in Eriton Ferry or some other field of labour. Mr. Wm. Jones, tbe vice-president of the Society, also responded. He remarked that the: object of the Society \V>1" not only to acquire the art of public speaking, but also to foster a habit of research and to broaden the mind by coming in contact, and in conflict with one another. He had noticed instances where members win had entertained bigoted views and some pet ideas, bad modified or relinquished those narrow and cramped opinions to a very great extent. He claimed' no credit for having- bepD. regular in his attendance at the Society's meetings for the i s:p .e reason that, he could not stay away. The R"'v. E. Nicholas, pastor of the English Cr>ngr»gational Church, whose presence at t:1C function tbat evening was cordially hailed, and whose patronage is so dear to the members, sail t'tat he hoped they would continue to read and study and cultivate their minds during the summer recess. He was always happy in the company of upright, earnest young men, a,Dd was pleased to notice that they were nearly all menbers of Christian Churches. He hoped that the members ef tbe C.O U. would be a medium by which the influence of tbe Church would pass to the out-ide world. Mr. Tom Mort sang "Break the nrws to Mother," Mr. T. Coon -r sang On tho Banks of the Nile," and Mr. J. H. Jones gave a comic song "Father of a Family." In response to a song "Father of a Family." In response to a determined encore be gave Fatner's got 'em coming on again." The other toasts were ;— The Lai-li-s by Mr. Arthur Jam°R, responded to by Mr. George Lloyd; "TheVisitors" by Mr. Abraham Hewlett, lesponded to bv Mr. Cooper The Press was proposed by Mr. Samuel Lewis, and Mr. T. Tallamv (Neath Gaieite) and Mr. Fred. Thomas (Cambrian) responded. Recitation. The Frenchman," wis given most humorously by Mr. E. Howard. Mr. D. L. Jones sang "Ail over the Shop." Mr. Fred Thomas sang Rule Britannia." Mr. W. jlones gave "Queen of the Earth," Mr. Arthur Janies sang the Yeomen's Wedding March," and :.1Ir. D. Da.vies sang" Lost Nellie." A most enjoyabie evening was brought to a close by the singing of the National Anthem.

LLANDOVERY. [BY OUR OVTN CORRESPONDENT.] I THE RELIEF OF MAFEKING. GREAT REJOICINGS AT LLANDOVERY. The g-lad and pleasing tidings of the long-hoped- for relief of Mafeking reached here about 10.30 on Friday evening and created great jubilation. A torchlight ion paraded the various streets in the town, singing on the route several patriotic airs and We'll bang old Kruger on the sour apple tree." A [food deal of cannonading also took place and the bells of Llandingat Church were merrily run? until midnight. On Saturday morning the anci?nt borough bore quite a picturesque and animated appearance. The town was quite en fcia to do honour to the brave hero of Mafeking, whose capa.hilities as a Cr>k-ter withstanding all attack for upwards of 216 days, and then retiring with a not out innings should be emulated by some of our local wielders of the willow. Large fiags were hoisted on the Church Tower, the Old Castle, Town Hall, the College, theTonn, and almost every house in the town. Strings of banners of different hues were hung" across several of the streets, some bearing such suitable mottoes as "Successto Col. Baden-Powell, the bra.ve hero of Mafeking," and Mafeking Relieved." whilst here and there were hung the splendid photo of the Defender, given,by The Cambrian with last week's issue. A capital model of Tommy Atkins," attired in full regimental uniform, erect'd in High-street, created a good deal of interest. Almost every inhabitant wore a rosette of the Lnion Jack colour, and even horses and dogs were similarly dressed. The bells again pealed out a merry chime, whilst the College Students were granted a holiday, and marched through tbe various streets waving' bannerettes and rendering Rule Britannia an I several other appropriate son gos, -ci The Mayor convened a ppecial meet ng o* tne Council in flie tuor.dfg to consider what, should be done to celebrate the hapjuy event, a report of which will be found below. On Monday the rejoicings were continued. Basiness places were all closed, and a general holiday was granted to the employees. Cannon- ading took place on the Old Castle. About two o'clock in the afternoon the members of the Corooration met at the Town Hall, and accom- panied by a large assembly, proceeded to The Cru°" an mt^re-tmg spot, distant about a nine from the town. The Town Brass Band headed the procession, aud played capital selections of music on the way. under the conouctorship of Mr. H. Ryder. A capital programme had been prepared, and sports were indulged in, several races being keenly contested. Games of every descriotion were also participated in, and refreshments were given to the many present. The" Cewion Bowddwr," in fact. did their utmost to show their loyalty to tbe Queea, aud to do honour to the gallant Gvmro whose bravery, a characteristic of the clan, kept the wiiy Boers at bay for such a considerable period. Ihe event will, without a doubt, be a red-ietter day in the minds of those who had the privilege of participa- ting i-n the rejoicings. On Monday everd: g at the Town Hall, a public meeting was .held under the presidency of the Mayor, when the prizes were ds-ribu-ed to the successful competitors. A full report of the interesting speeches delivered, will appear in o ir next week's issue. At the conclusion of the meeting, fireworks were let off, and a capital effigy of old Kruger," made by Mr. J. Magor, High-street, was burnt in the Square. THE RELIEF OF MAFEKING." The gladsome news of the relief of Mafeking Created great jubilation in dear Llandovery, The tidings gave even old folks such a spring That th-jy nearly got mad on the banks of the Towy. A capital suggestion was that of the Mayor To celebrate the event with a holiday. The borough inhabitants, both dark and fair, Hailed to "The Crug on that fine Monday. On Mondny morn you could hear Llandingat bells. Llandovery's young men were dressed such swells. Silk hats and frock coats, what I tell you is no fib, Cot Cwtta. bwtt'.vn melyn, Jim Crow, a britchis rib." The ladies were dressed in yi ir Indulged in all sports, never ?'o:e-! to tire, Throe copers w»re laised for the brave j1- • h". From'the to oafs ot tbe rondo and. leuimme gender.

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SPECIAL MEETING OF THE LLAXDOVEEY TOWN COUNCIL. A sfeeial meeting- of the Llandovery T"vn Conn nil was held on Saturday mornine mrler tbe nresidenoy of the Mayor, Mr. J. B. James, of Snring-field Cittaare. to consider wha.t steps should be takr-n to suitably c-debrate thereliof of Mafebinp. There were also present :—Alderraau Thoma" Jones. Llanfair Cottar Aid. Jnoah Watkins, the Bi-ik AI L Thomas Watkins Tyce-ria- Councillors D. Saunders Thomas, Belmont House Tbos. Roberts, Crown Stores John Evans, Old ("i inze Dan Davids, Stone- ptreet H. V. 1,Vatkins, Tycerricr Henry Havard. Hiffh-^treet: the Town Cle^k (Mr. John Thomas) +h" Borough Surveyor (Mr. William JJoyc1). and the Inspector of Nuisances (Mr. John Roderick). GTTXEKO.ITY OF THE PIAYOR. The Mayor, at the outset, announced that he had convened the meeting for the purpo-e of considering- what steps should be taken to celebrate the relief of Mafeking. He was sure that they were 911. like himself, very glad to hear the pood news, which, he trusted, was correct, as they had, no doubt, observed that the telegram came from Pretoria. He considered the event should be specially observed, and 8uarpest»d that a national peneral holiday be granted on Monday, as that day would possibly suit better than Saturday. He bad been aronnd to soma of the business people in the town, and they were favourable to the suggestion. By holding- it on Monday it would give tim" to arransre a. vrosrrnrnme of sports for the children in the town. His Worship further remarked that he intended commemorating' the ev^nt by entertanrnc, at his own expense, the children of both elementary schools to a. tea. and proposed get'ing it off on the 24th inst., this day being the anniversary of the Queen's birthday. (Hear, hear, and applause.) Ald. J. Watkins proposed that the Mayor's capital suggestion be decide unon. Aid. Thos. Watkins seconded, and the motion was unanimously carried. It was also decided to send the Town Crier round announcing- that all business places were to be c,oferl on Monday. A subscription ]i"t was then opened and a sum of about £ 10 was immediately collected, the Mavor heading the list with a guinea. A Committee was then appointed to arrange a programme "f the festivities, and the meeting afterwards terminated. CRICKET. LLANDOVERY TOWX V. LLANDOVERY COLLEGE. l By Mid-wicket, j L The cric-ket season for this year was opened at Llandovery on Thursday last with the above match, wh;ch was played in glorious weather. The Colleeians winning the to-s. went to the "sticks" first and made a poor display, being disposed of for the paltry total of 69 runs. The Masters, H. S. Newton and E. B. Calcott, were the only persons who made ooy opposition to the trundling. The veteran, C. P. Lewis, was in fine form with the leather, capturing no le-s then six wickets at a small co;t. L. N. Evans wa5 also successful with hij deliveries. On the Town going: in, a verv disastrous grart- was. inside, three good wi^i'e^s being captured fur 18 runs. However, on H. Y. Watkins partnering D. T. M. Jones, an invaluable stand was wit- nessed. Both batsmen treated the bowling with little respect, several boundaries being scored in ra-nid succession. II. V. Watkins. in particular, played very yig-orous cricket, registering- no less than 15 runs in cne over. A. E. Evans at^lwst, with a capital ball, disturbed Watkins' wienets, the outgoing1 batsman having the creditable score of 40 runs to his credit. D. T. M. Jones continued to play admirable cricket, but had yery little assistance from his co-batsman. Jones ultimately succumbed at the 10th wicket, to a fine catch off Sonne. His score of 94 runs was obtained in his usual able and fine style, and well deserve 1 the ovation he received on his return to the pavilion. LLANDOVERY COLLEGE. P. J. Newton, b C. P. Lewis 3 C. M. Davies, Jliw, b C. P. Lewis 2 A. E. Evans, c D. T. M. Jones, b Lewis 6 H. S. Newton, c Watkins, b L. N. Evans 21 H. H. W illiams, bC. P. Lewis 0 R. B. Ca'cott, e Evans, b C. P. Lewis. 16 S. H. Loekyer o L. N. Evans 0 A L. Green, b C. P. Lewis 6 A. E. Seymour, b L. N. Evaus 0 J. R. Snape, not out 0 E. B. Williams, c Lewis, b L. N. Evans 0 Extras 10 Total 69 LLANDOVERY TOWN. D. T. M. Jones, c Davies, b Snape 94 J. T. Hopkins, c Evans, b Newton 2 D. I). Evans, b Newton 0 L. N. Evans, b Newton 0 H. V. Watkins. b E. A. Evans 40 C. P. Lewis, c Loekyer. b Snape. 8 C. Michael, c Newton, b Snape 0 H. H. Knight, b A. E. Seymour. 11 H. H. Brahant, b A. E. Sepmour 2 }L Peel-Price, c Williams, b Snape 6 J. Prytherch, not out 0 Extras 9 Total 172 LLANDOVERY COLLEGE V. ST. DAVID'S COLLEGE LAILPETEK. Elevens representing these rival colleges met at Llandovery for the first time this season on Saturday last. The homesters, who played with- out the assistance of the masters, winning tiie toss, naturally decided to so to the wi-bets, the t-undling being' entrusted to Goodridpe srd Deighton. whos° attack was successful against Swansea recently. The batting display was most feehle, and the whole side were dismissed for the insignificant to!;al of 34 runs. Goodridge, as usual, was most successful in the bo.vlMig, dis- posing of 8 wiokets for only 19 runs. Deighton took 2 wickets for 13 runs. On the Lampetaria.r.8 going in. it was soon evident that they would be the winners. A. Griffiths and L. T. P. Jones, who opened the innings,played the bowling with ease, and passed tbe home total, when Jones was foolishly run out. The visitors ultimately put on the exeelieot, s-oie of 174 rn;,s. this win-ing easily by 140 runs. Seymour bowled splendidly, and kept a capital leng'h t'r roughout. His analysis ioad 7 wickets for 35 runs, a by no ml"<n8 bad performance. A ppenoed are the o, :— LLANDOVERY COLLEGE. P. J. Newton, b Gooriridge 13 J. 21. Suape, b Deigbton 0 A. E. Ev-itns, c A. Griffiths, b Goodridpe 0 H. K. Williams, b Goodridpe 6 S. H. Loekyer, b Goodridge 0 A. L. Greeo, c A. Griffiths, b Poigbton. 3 | C. M. Davies, Ibw. b Go.>dridge 0 A. Seymour, b Goodridpe 3 E. P. W-iliams, b Goodridpe 0 II. P JoU'-S. not cut ••• T. SI. O. Williams, b Good ridge 4 E:a=. 2 Total o4 ST. DAVID'S COLLEGE LAICPETElF.. A. Griffitb. h A. E. Seymour. 33 LI. T. P. Jones, run out 17 LI. Griffith, b A. E. Seymour 8 M. H. Ridgway, b A. E. S-ymour 0 E. O. M -vrick, b A. E. Evans 10 W. Home, c Seymour, b P. J. Newton. 46 D. H. James, b A. E. Seymour 21 W. Z. Joces. b A. E. Seymour 0 J. Good ridge, b A. E. Seymour 22 J. G. Deighton. b A. E. Seymour 6 J. Bur! on, not out 0 j Extras 11 Total 174

j FASHION NOTES. [BY MLSSRS. BEN EVANS AND CO., LIMITED, SWANSEA. To be monotonous is fatal to the votary of Fashion, and yet what is one to do if Madame La Mode so far contradicts her accredited and really well-earned characterfoi never-ending and swiftly- succeeding fancies as to remain faiihfal to some whim for several months in succession Cireum- stances, it is truly stid, alter cases, ani in this instance they probably had a ve-y great deal to do with the sustained popularity of black and white which so many people are, hy bereavement, compelled to adopt for some months at least. In this case fate has not been altogether unkind, as ery black and white, whether employed for millinery or dressmaking purposes, is at once smart and becoming, and when colour can be introduced in j sundry finishing touches, the effect is charming, In millinery on° is especially impressed with the fact, for so many altogether admirable specimens of it are to be beheld in the windows and -how rooms. The charming hat sketched here is made of white crin a^oug which lines of narrow black velvet are arranged, white under the brim nestle yellow rosas and one black rose—an unnatural but effective note of contrast. Every-day sees the increased brightness and smartness of the headgear encountered in our walks abroad, and a noticeable feature wnicb cannot fail to strike the attention is the amount and variety of the worn. Yery fasliioiable also are tbe burnt straw hats trimmed for the most part with clusters of I A CHARMING HAT. crimson rosDs of varying shades, and a black chiffon scarf eareles-lv tied round the crown (which has now again asserted itself as a leading feature of the smartest hats) and falling in two ends on to the hair <■" the wearer towards the back of the brim. It does not require any very great skill to trim one of these hats, and indeed, nowadays, every aid is given to the home worker to reduce her worries to nothing, as the most charming hat mounts of I every possible style can be obtained almost any- where for five or six shillings, and these need only to be lightly tucked to the hat to render its trimmings un fait accompli. Indeed, we can I most heartily recommend the amateur milliner to invest in one of these m-muts. especially if ribbon bows an I twists are the trimming fixed upon, for there is a considerable difficulty in the arrangement of ribbon bow- not to be overlooked, | and the desired smart effect requires the touch j of practised fingers to produce it successfully, otherwise a crushed and distinctly home-made trimming is the result, to exist as an eyesore and daily affliction to the unfortunate owner. A very sensible action would be 'o inve-t in a smart gown Euc-h as depicted h"T"e. It is made of violet cloth and the leading feature of the trained skirt lies in the fact that A s 1,1 art cowx. be tucks, which extend from a few inches below the waist Lne to beyond the knees, are not stitched down, but form ridges, as it were—a I mode just introlueed. The bolero has a triple rounded collar, each p-srt piped at t'e edg-e with black satin, while the strapping of cloth ap- pliqned, in a. p tttern, are in t'.eir turn piped with white ani stitched with Mack. It sounds a complicated arrangement, but in ity The effect is excellent. With it is vroru a swathed | black satin !>«,! d arid a vriii'e r.>it. u Llse j "beneath is of cream lace over white.

X E AT] I & DISTRICT. rBy OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.] THE BELIEF OF MAFEKING. A brief Press Agency message was received at Neath shortly after ten o'clock on Friday night, and no time was lost in making icnowa the glorious news. It spread like wild fire, and the various works being communicated with, buzzars. or what are better known locally by the name of "hooters" were set going, and it may with truth be said that Bever'before was such a din heard at Neath. The townsfolk were for the greater part in- doors, and as might have been expected of a highly respectable community many had re- tired to rest. But the whistling and "hoot- ing" continuing, the entire population were soon on the move, and almost every house- hold turned out into the streets. The Neath Borough Band mustered at a moment's notice, and heading an enormous proccssion the streets of the entire cown were perambulated, the music 01 the band being varied by the singing by thousands of people of Gcd save the Queen and other patriotic songs. At the political clubs there were- great festivities, which were kept up TUitil after Fridav night had olossomed into Saturday morning. On the following day there was the appearance of a le-action, which, however, wore off, a fact being due to the inspiriting music provided in the Vic- toria. Gardens in the evening by the Neath Borough Band. CRICKET.—Elnilwokth V. NEATH •TUNICS.. CLERKS' C.C. — Played at Brit on i erry on Saturday last, and ended in a win for the Junior Clerks bv 30 runs, the scores being, Clerks 73. Kenihvorth 43. For the victors C. Heard and A. Freethy did best with the bat, while Evan Thomas bowled in grand style, taking eight wickets for 12 runs.. POLICE INSPECTIONS AT NEATH. — Captain Terrv made an inspection of the Neath Borough Police on Monday. He also inspec- ted the ceils at the lock-up. tne Ponce offices and the books, und gave proof of his satisfac- tion. The entire Force was on parade, and presented a very smart appearance. Captain Terry, accompanied by Chief Constable Lind'sav, also made an inspection of a most complete character of the D. Division of the Glamorganshire Constabulary. There were one parade one superintendent, three inspec- tors, six sergeants, and 54 constables. The Force was put. through their drill and sword exercises. The cells, the Police Offices, and the numerous books (the latter kept so admirably bv Police Sergeant Evans) were 11 thoroughly inspected, the keen eye of Captain Tirrv noting everything. He quite spoil te,ii eo r I y expressed his pleasure at fil"*ing alf in such admirable order. .•LO <IIATUS op LOCAL SOLDIERS.—Amongst the BlterSf from enteric fever reported from Jonc? vlteiu is that of Private ^ones No. 124l a Ees?ervist of the 1st Welsh. J soldier was a son of ^Police cseigeant Jones, of the Neath Borough Police, ^.nd. Jie was 32 years of age. Promptly upon tue sacl news obtaining circulation, a repre- sentative of The Cambrian called at the house of Sergt. Jones, and, clinging to the hope that there might have been some con- fusion of names, telegraphed to the Press Association, London, asking that the news rnTo-kt be verified at the War Office. Im- ^orli'itp rnd instantaneous attention was n to th'-s request, and all too speedily fbl- cane the following message: "Edward Welsh, died from enteric fever at Jones ist vei.^ c011firina- Bloenifoniein, Aia\ j.ui j tion scon became kno*n. c.nd on all Hands tl OTa ver" expressions of the deepest sym- pathy. Amongst, the earliest callers upon Sergt. and Mrs. Jones were the Hev. C. V. Purcell and Alderman Vv. B. Trick. Tne Hews was gent;" broken to the widow, who, left with an infant child, is prostrate with grief. The deceased soldier, who has laid down his life for his country, was caretaker at the Neath County Schools, and all who knew him esteemed him highly for the abso- lute integrity of his character and the ex- treme affability of his manners. Two years ago, in this same month of May (when -thoughts naturallv turn to life and not to death) Sergeant Jones lost his eldest son, Mr. Tom Jones, then 33 years of age. it wos oiilv on Friday last that a letter from ( :Printle }>I,nrc1 Jones was published in I The Cambrian." There was a most cheer- ful and hooei'ul tone in the letter, and the shock caused bv its being so ewimy fonowed by the news of the writci s death is all tne greater. T THE SOLACE OF TOBACCO. — Private James Bridge, of the 3rd Battalion < £ .enadier Guard/ writing under date April 24th to ms toother, at Neath, says: "I have been laid Up with fever, but I am now oetter, thank (iod. I did not write to tell you I was ill as I thought it would upset you, but I write now, as I can tell you I am getting better. I am at Bloemfontein waiting for my Bat- talion to come close to the railway, as 1 do not think 1 shall be able to walk any great distr.T^0 any more. I can go by train. I thim. the fever has put a top hat on me, as it has shortened my breath and weakenal iBv ie«rC. All the same I have a little b.t ot strength left for Pretoria. I thir.iv 1 should break my heart if I were left here and no, go on after'h?ving been through more than ha,f of it. I received the cigarettes that Mis. Korth so kindly sent me. I was in the hospi- tal. and shared them with my comrades, who like mvsplf. were in hospital. The sight of those cigarettes was like the sight ot an old friend. I thank Mrs. North and Johnrde North from the bottom of my heart for their grent kindness. There are a num- ber of our follows dying out here from fever. It is the fever that troubles us." FTIVEBAL OF MR. SAMUEL HAERIS. — We have, with regret, to record the death of Mr. Samuel Harris, hairdresser, or Cnurch- rila'oe" which sad event took place on Satur- day th" 12th inst., after an illness which had' extended, over a few montns has left a widow and a young family. was a member of Hutchins' Orches- tral Band! His skill as a player on the cornet, was very widely known, andp J good cause was helped by hi- ^hich generous services. took place on Thursday of last wee tended by circumstances winch fllll^1fem„°Tfd •strafed the sympathy ot the townsfolk, and the high esteem in which the deceased w^s held. A short service was held at the bouae hi Church-place, the Rev. D. H. Simoi curate or Skewen, officiating. At the gra.e- side in St. John's Churchyard, at S Re wen, the service was performed by the Eev. i. Phillios Vicar of Skewen, assisted by the R°v D H. Simon (already named). Amongst the'wreaths which were sent were tnose ^rom the Committe? o. the Workmgm 'Keath Mr«..lohnson and family. Mr. and Mix. J. T. Bainec. and Mr. and Mrs. Skewen The moiirners v^re: Mr. Richard Harris (father). Neath; Mr. • H. Harris (bvotherb Merthvr; Mr. Josepn L. 'Harris (bother); Mr. Ricinrd Harris. >unr. brother) Carmarthen Mr. m. Harris ^brother/ Neath; Mr. Herber Harris brother), Neath; Mr. Arthur Harris {brother). Neath; Mr. Samuel Evans (uncle;. Neath; Mr. H. T. Evans (co-asm); Mr. Willie Harris (cousin); Mr. Regan (uncle). Skewer*"• Mr. J. T. Baines (brother-in-law^. NeathV Mr. F. C. Ponting (brofher-in-'aw>. ^eath; Tdr. Arrhie Gilbert (brother-in-law*. ■Jleath; Mr. Williams. The following were amongst those of the personal, friends of the deceased who preceded the hearse:'—Alder- "•nan W. B. Trick, Mr. Frank Picker.51. Mr. 'Tom Howell. Mr. Levi James, Mr. W. H. ^tinkin. Mr. Robert Young. Mr. Walter Da.viec. Mr. C. Sna^h, Mr. B. Thomas, Mr. Jobn Thomas. Mr. Wcoton, Mr. Bright, Mr. JS^iPia-m ThoniPS, Mr. J. E. Morgan, Mr. W. Jones. Mr. J. Morgan., Mr. Pee-s Harris, T. R. T)ayics, Mr. Seldon, Mr. Sam "jiek, Mr. Tom Hutchirs, M1'. George Hut- ehine, Ml'. Ted Bail, Mr. C. Auston, Mr. George Johnson, Mr. John Johnson, Mr. Ed. Morgan, Mr. George Stacey, Mr. Wallace Hutchins, Mr. Donovan, Mr. Crushaber, Mr. A. L David Mr. C. Talbot, Mr. Tom Jones, Mr. David Spark, Mr. S. R. Edwards, Mr. James Reed, Mr. Roger Thomas, Mr. J. Hookin, Mr. J. Jenkins, Mr. Rees Jenkins, Mr. Ted Lewis, Mr. E. D. Cribb, Mr. George Venables, Mr. F. Phillip, Mi*. Clarke, Mr. H. Lewis, The Committee of the Workingmen s Club, The Employees of Messrs. Jones Foundry, Neath, and others. UNITED TEMPERANCE COUNCIL. BAND OF HOPE WORK. This Council is about to concentrate at- tention on the Bands of Hope and kindred societies and their work, with a view to im- proving their position and service, and of enlisting the many hundreds who are out- side the good influence of those institutions, and who are, moreover, without good example at home. At. a general and well-attended meeting' of the Council held on Wednesday evening in last week, the Secretary submit- ted a scheme which had been previously ap- proved by the Superintendents of the Bands of Hope." The scheme provides for quarterly central gatherings or demonstrations of the bauds of Hope, and suggestions are included for a Children's Fete in the summer, juvenile competitions, etc. The proposals were heartily confirmed by the Council, and it was resolved to hold the first central gathering on a day in the first week in October next, im- mediately preceding the great united mission of the following week. Matters respecting this mission present, even at the present time, a rosy appearance. NEATH BOARD OF GUARDIANS. A meeting of the above named Board was held on Tuesday, Mr. D. R. David (Vice- Chairman) presiding. The following were also present: The Rev. Herry Morris, ivev. James Edwards, Messrs. H. W. Vivian, C. S. Price, J. H. Moore, A. S. Gardner, J. B. G. Price, E. Price, Edward Davies, J. Preston, W. Rice Evans. S. B. Davies, John Davie?, William Jones. John Daniel, David Powell, Rees Thomas, John Joseph, and Dr. Thomas. Mr. Joseph Moore had given notice of g motion, but being unavoidably absent, Mr. J. Herbert Moore, after a few preliminary obserratious, moved the following resolu- tion:—"That this Board is of opinion that the time has arrived when the principle of pensioning widows and orphans of officers of the sea and land forces of this country should* be extended to the widows and orphans of all below that rank not otherwise provided for, who are servants of the Crown; and further, that pension or compensation should be given in the case of men of either branch of the service who may be incapacitated while on active service, and that, a copy of this re- solution be forwarded to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Minister of War. the First Lord of the Admiralty, and the Members of Parliament for this district." Mr. A. S. Gardner, whilst seconding the motion, said he should like to see some modi- fication of the wording. There were cases in which men died from disease which, in his opinion, should come within the scope of the resolution. Mr. H. W. Vivian showed a disposition to criticise the motion. lie alluded to the Patriotic Fund, and said that was intended to meet such cases as those contemplated in that motion. For himself, he deprecated an addition to the already burdensome taxation with which the industries of this country were so much weighted.. Mr. A. S. Gardner, in replying, said the Patriotic Fund would not meet what was in- tended. That Fund was cumbrous in its working. It took him (the speaker) four months to get out £ 10 for a soldier's widow. For all such purposes as those they now had in view the Patriotic Fund might be said to be absolutely locked up. Mr. Edward Davies, who followed, sugges- ted that a committee be appointed to inquire into the matter, and report to the Board. This was agreed, and the following were aooointed on the committee ihe Chairman, two Vice-Chairmen, Messrs. A. S. Gardner, H. W. Vivian, Joseph E. Moore, J. H. Moore, II. P. Charles, and Walter Rice Evans. NEATH COUNTY POLICE. FEiDVY.-iBefore Mr. William Leyson and L Mr. T. Powell.] \DUTJTEKATED MILK.—Samuel Davies, milk vendor, of Briton Ferry, was summoned tor selling, on Sunday, April ^2lid, to Police Sergeant Evans, milk, which, npon oeing analysed was found to contain 18 per cent. of added'water. The case having oe,en proved, the Bench fined the defendant 20s. and costs 1 fjp I Spinous OFFLXCE.—David Gvnlym Eees, of C::ler Lan Farm, Seven Sisters, was charged with (1) Not reporting the existence of Sheep Scab on his farm; and (2) With allowing sheep suffering from seaD to stray, One of the defendant's sheep was found on the neighbouring farm of Gwanniarl, where it had infected other sheep. The Bench, taking a most lenient view of the charges, fined the defendant 2s. 6d. and cofets in each case. NEATH BOROUGH POLICE. MOVDAT.—[Before the Mayor (Alderman H. P. Charles), and Councillor Hopkin Morgan, Mr. Clement Gardner, and Mr. Harry G. Thomas.] DRINK AND REJOICING. — Evan Jones, a respectable-looking man. pleaded guilty to a charge of having been drunk on Saturday, adding, by way of extenuation, that he had been so overjoyed at the relief of Mafeking that he was overcome by drink. It was the first time for him to get into such a condi- tion, and he much regretted it. The Bench, taking the circumstances (which included a night's sojourn in the lock-up) into con- sideration, discharged the defendant with a caution. >1PUI.TEEATI;D "WHISKEY. — John Jivans. landlord of the, Commercial Inn, was fined 10s. and cost? for selling whiskey which had been adulterated, and James Hob!)-. of the Victoria Hotel, was fined 2Ca. and costs on a similar charge.

place themselves in the hands of Sergeant Loates with every confidence. He holds a number of medals, including the Egyptian and long-service medal, and the medal and certificate of the Life Saving Society for pro- ficiency as a teacher of life-saving. He is a fully qualified instructor of swimming. At a recent meeting of the Swansea Swim- ming Club a number of new members were elected, including Mr. E. Y. Shetch, late ot Penar^h F. Francis being wire tne xeo- rnanrv iii South Africa, Mr. Shetch was elec- ted vice-captain of the First tetun. Mr. S. G. Bees was elected vice-captain ot tne Second team, and Mr. Arthur Roderick will fill the vacancy on the committee. It was decided to present Capt. 1.1. Thomas' shield to the U elsh Amateur Swimming Associa- tion, to be put up for a Flying Squadron race, the race to come off in Swansea this year. It is hoped that greater interest will be Mown in the Schoolboy championship by the school this year. Most like'v the age limit will be reduced from 14 to i3, provided Sir John Llewelyn is willing. Fixtures have been arranged' with Cardiff, Newport, Penarth. and perhaps Plymouth. and a nnm- Tber of new ideas will be brougnt on this vear. Mr. Harold Mills has already started in .earnest to get his men together, and if they all keep together and do their best to assist liim, a good season will be the result. He js the best captain, and the most popular mati we can possibly have, and I hope all will do their best and stand by him this year.