The Cambrian

IMPORTANT. TO MATRONS AND OTHERS. Will Masters and Matrons of our charit- able institutions please inform Uncle Robin at once how many children they have in their care eligible for toys. Give the number of boys and girls. Uncle Robin would impress upon those children who have collecting-sheets not to use them in such a way as to vex or pester people who are indisposed to assist in the enterprise. And furthermore, the smallest contributions should be readily received. even to a half-penny, for many a mickle makes a muckle! In this itgard it is very encouraging to find that the children them- selves are contributing to a large extent. Many of the young collectors' sheets are filled with pennies! It is this feature of the work which gives Uncle Robin much plea- sure. Should this first Christmas Toy Dis- tribution prove the success it augurs, it will form the nucleus of an annual event. And who knows but that it may assume very large dimensions, almost equalling, perhaps, Truth's" great Doll Show in London! ——————

THE CRAY-WATER SCHEME. CONTRACTORS AND CORPORATION. IMPORThNT CASE AND JUDGMENT. The case of Paterson and Son, Limited v. the Cour.cil of the County Borough of Swan- sea came on for argument on Monday (before Mr. Justice Kennedy and Mr. Justice Dar- ling, sitting as a Divisional Court in the Queen's Bench Division of the High Court). The Hon. J. D. Fitzgerald, Q.C., and Mr. Livingston Macassey appeared for Messrs. Paterson, and Mr Joseph Walton, Q.C., and Mr. S. T. Evans. M. P., for the Corporation. i. ir*i l "zgoral d said this was a special case stated by Mr. George H. Hill, the arbitrator in an arbitration between Meters. Paterson and Son. Limited, and the Council of the County Borough of Swansea, and the arbi- tration arose under a contract dated 7th J uiic. 1898, by which the contractors under- took to construct a reservoir and certain other works for the Corporation for a lumn sum of £ 255,000 odd. The conditions of con- tract contained the usual clause that durintr tne progress or tile works advar-ces were, to be made by the Corporation to the contractors at the riuc of 80 per cent, of the value of "the work executed, and the only question upon which th, arbitrator had sought the opinion of the Court under the special case was whether under that clause of the contract the work to be valued was the whole work executp-d up to (late, or only certain portions of it. The contractors claimed to have in- cluded in the valuation of the work done for the purposes of advances certain works which were necessary for the carvintr out of the agreement. Thc" works had caused an aggregate outla" of 240,000, and their Lord- ships would find that under tho contract as soon as those works were executed or the ma- terials brought upon the ground they became the property of the Corporation. The ques- tion really arose on tho following words in a clause of the contract "Tho value of the work executed. 'Was it the value of the whole of tho work executed, or was it only the value of some part of it ? If it was the value of the whole work executed, then the contractors were entitled to have taken into account all th, mat tore which were necessary for the carrying out of the contract, and which be- came the property of the Corporation. Mr. Walton submitted that matters of pre- paratory work had nothing to do with the Corporation, and the engineer had no power under tho conditions of contract to certify any valuation of thorn for advances, because they were not included in the schedule of prices by which he was bound. Their Lordships hold that the contractors wire not entitled to any advances for these temporary works, as they did not come under the definition in clause 56 of "work executed" which referred only to the subject matter of the contract. Judgment for the Corporation accordingly without costs.

"Found drowned" is the verdict a cor- oner's jury returned on Tuesday after in- quiring into the circumstances attending the drowning of Mr. David Moore, the chief mate of tho 13.8 Muirhaven Head. The crew of the ship were iit sea, and the only evidence with respect to the fatality was an affidavit of the master, who said deceased accidently fell overboard while superintending the weighing of the anchor.

SWANSEA SHOPS IN CHRISTMAS GUISE. Visitors to and residents in Swansea need t hardly be told that the shops in the town are becoming more numerous, varied and attractive and at this season of the year they are specially inviting, for the shop windows are full of goods useful and ornamental, designed to entice the money out of the pockets of many shop-gazers crowding the streets- J F 8 .1 MR. ISAAC GALE. vn? £ e oWest-esteblisW and best-known f Z S°rlth W^le,8 aTli Wppt of England now M °p ¥r' J8?? -street; and just T, ^la a8si8tants are "as busy as beeR" in the effort to meet the abnormal demands tiYi. nn™erous customers. Of course, to enable them to do this elaborate preparations bad to be made weeks—aye months aeo. For instnn™ at an early date Mr. Gale was fortunate enongh Pnrr™?reTT of fruit-raisins, currants, French plums, fisrs, and soon—all of ex- ceptionai quahtv. Mr. Gale has always been noted for his coffee. He nays, perhaps, a higher price than anyone in the Principality ? and conse- quently secures the finest coffee the world can produce. He obtains a fresh supply every few days, MR r„r ^US jtron £ r',arid of excellent flavour. Mr. Gale also does a larsre business in different kinds of teas noteworthy alike for thoir fragrant aroma, delicious taste, and above all for ^W ?tlOUS qTlitieS Thpn he has a lkrge 111? °i n^y ,nd dTfrt sweets, nlnms. musca- tels, almonds fancy biscuits Stilton. Gruvere Gorgonzola Camenebert, York and crelm cheeses, York and Limerick ham«, sausages A mcludine L°berwnrst, German and Anglo-German, Hillier's celebrated and saveloys. Special mention must be made to the spirits and wines which are to be obtained on the premises. Thev inolnde Bnchanan's and Dewar's whiskey. Ind GS special, champagne, port., sherry—all of the best brands. In a room behind the shop there is artis- tically pranged a fine stock of fancy chocolates in beautiful little boxes; handbag* and miniature dressers; boxes containing crackers of all the latest design-. including the C.I. V. crackers Bob J> crackers, with kharki paper hats and military cloaks inside; exquisite decorations for the tables: albums, music cases, and a hundred and one things suitable for Xmas presents. DOWN AND SON. A vjs! £ to th« showrooms of the well-known Messrs. Down «nd Son, High-street,, oan- not but impress one with the fact that the home beautiful is nowadays easily within the reach of every woman with a purse even moderately lined. Messrs. Down and Son art- by far the largest furniture maker* in the Principality and just now they have in their spacious showrooms a wonderful display of things, from the most massive and elaborate nieees of furniture to the smallest ornament. There are handsome bed- room suites in mahogany, walnut, and other woods, drawing-room suites, in fact everything conceivable for those who arp. about to furnish a house or office. In one of the windows there is displayed a magnificent registered bedroom suite, every article of whi^h i- of highly-finished workmanship. The dressing table, which is quite unique in its way, has patent reflectors, by means or WhICh anyone can spe the back of his or her head without any tronble whatever. It is a most ingenious contrivance, and will, we feel confident, be a boon to ladies. Nearly all (if not all) the furniture shown by Messrs. Down and Son is manufactured on the premises, and it is an instructive^ as well as interesting Bight to witness the evolution of rousrh-cut wood into a well- finished, substantial niece of furniture. It may be stated that a i-bort time aero the Pontypool Guardians accepted the firm's tender for furnish. ing the snlendid new Board-room now being1 constructed in that Union, and considering that Cardiff, Bristol, and other "houses" tendered. Messrs. Down and Son's success is creditable not only to themselves, but to the town as well, The firm are also makine furniture for Mr. R. E. Jones's new cafe in Castle-street. EDDERSHAW AND SON. It is at any time interesting to inspect the above-named house furnisher's extensive and carefully-selected stock, but particularly so just now, when they have such a temntinsr display of Christmas novelties. He must be extremely ,r" to nlease who cannot see anything to suit him at Messrs. Eddershaw and Son's fine new establishment in Hirh-street. For there is a large and varied stock to select from. In the window is a very attractive show of ornaments and tancy gonds. includin? bronze figures, dainty bne-a-brac, quaint curios, Ac. Then, in the showrooms are to be seen evprv conceivable thing in the way of house furniture. such as bedroom and drawing-room suites, tables, occa- sional chairs, writing tables, kitchen dressers, bamboo articles, mail carts, and so on. MR. H. A. CHAPMAN. No one should fail to nay a visit during Christmastide to the studio of Mr. H. A Chapman, the well-known photojrranher of High- street. So fine a selection of Christmas cards larcv articles, oil paintings, water eolonrs' e.nl*rged photos, photo frames of the late t designs, &o., must be seen to be properly appreciated. It is quite an intellectual and pleasnreable feast to see the progress which # in 51 rt of photography—an art of which Mr. H. A. Chapman is a master. MR. JOHN S. BROWN. The spacious windows of Mr. John S. Brown's premises in Oxford-street enables him to display his exceptional stock of ironmongpry, Ac., to the best advantage, and visitors are able almost at a glance to choose some delightful and useful article suitable either for a Christmas present or for the adornment of their own houses. There are few better-stocked ironmongery shoos in the kingdom, especially in the cutlery line. There can be obtained electro-plated goods, bronzes farming and ordinary gardening imple- ments of all kinds. But the most important branch of Mr. J. S. Brown's business is the electrical. He has perhaps the largest stock of electric light fittings in South Wales, together with a large permanent staff of high-class engineers and electric wiremen. MR. D. THOMAS. Mr. David Thomas' jewellery establishment at the corner of Castle-street and Temple-street deserves attention just now, for there is not a more attractive show in the town. Exhibited in. side the windows are beautiful and artistic articles of jewellery in every form, and solid silver articles, including cigarette caseF4, pencil cases, and a hun- dred and one thines suitable for Xmas presents. Although Mr. D. Thomas' business is not one of long-standing—it only started about ten or eleven months ago—yet he has made creditable progress, The chief reason for this is because he combines cheapness with good quality, as well as keeping his eyes open to what people want nowadays. MR. W. C. ROBERTS. Mr. W. C. Roberts, photographer, of 16 and 17. Castle-street, has, as usual, made the most com- plete arrangements to meet the demands of Cnristmastide. His stock of Christmas cards is quite up-to-date, for it includes dainty, sesthetic, amusing, and the private-name cards which are now so popular. Then there are beautiful oil paintings, water colours, etchings, engravings, a choice selection of chrystoleums, 250 patterns to select from in picture-frame mouldings, artists' inaterials-and other things too numerous to mention, as the auctioneer says. We must not torget wo mention the photographs turned out by Mr. Roberts, for ttiey are of an exceptionally high order, aud bound to please everyone. BUNNEY'S. Mr. Bunney's premises at No. 1 and 14 Castle- square. 14, Temple-street, and 105, Oxford-street are well stocked with Christmas novelties. There' are Christmas cards in great variety, books toys of all description, and such as will satisfy youngsters of every frame of mind also general fancy goods which are imported direct from the principal manufactures of the wor.'d. A visit of inspection is well repaid at present. MESSRS. E. & J. GRIFFITHS, 11, High-street, Swansea, have a magnificent collection of books suitable for Christmas presents. In addition to the latest books of every description, Messrs. Griffiths have a huge assortment of albums, purses, bags, dressing cases, writing desks, bicycle bags, manicure cases, Ac., which make capital presents, and the sto< k is varied enough to satisfy the most fastidi- ous. The stock of Christmas and New Year's cards in the large show-room is worth inspecting. MR. TOM BARRON. Tom Barron, florist and bouquetist, of Oxford- sbeet, has his usual show of magnificent flowers, &c„ for Christmas decorations: also frenh nn+ flowers of the choicest exotics. CUt MR. A. J. CHAPPELL, Wind-street, the well-known fish, game and pou,try dealer, is now booking orders for Cbrist- ITthpLT a Sp id 1-ot °[ from some of the best preserves in the connt™ M_ Chappell's branch shop at Gloucester Ho^e' Mumbles has also been well stocked with fish' game, and poultry. MR. PHILIP JENKINS, Castle-square, Swansea, has a large' stock of household drapery and novelties for the Christ- mas season, unrist- MR. W. WILLIAMS. The artistic arrangement of the windows of Mr. W. Williams, jeweller. Castle-street, is a source of great attraction. It would be difficult to find a more brilliant display of rings, brooches, watches, chains, bracelets, charms, scarf pins and rings, links, studs, cigar and cigarette cases, match-boxes, card cases, sovereign purses, spectacles and numerous other articles suitable for Christmas presents. Customers can rely upon being satisfied at Mr. Williams's establishment, which is one of the oldest in the town. t MR. T. W. GAYDON. Those who are on the look-out for seasonable and useful presents should not fail to visit Mr. T. W. Gaydon's jewellery establishment in High- street. Mr. Gaydon has at present the largest stock of groods he has ever had—which is saying a good deal. MR. T. YORATH. Those ladies who desire to secure the best value for their money should pay a visit of inspection to the draoery establishment of Mr. Thomas Yorath at 228 High-street, where fit, style, and neat work is guaranteed at moderate prices. MR. JNO. H. NOTT, Mr. Jno. H. Nott, plumber and glazier, of St. Helen's Road and Quav Parade, has a very fine stock of gas stoves, electrical fittings of all de- scriptions. shades for incandescent lamps. His premises in St. Helen's-roqd are quite up-to-date, being fitted throughout with a splendid system of radiators. Mr. Nott is agent for the celebrated Omega odourless gas stove, which has been de- scribed as one of those rare discoveries and in- ventions that revolutionises a system and marks an epoch." MESSRS. D. JONES, DICKENSON, & CO. Oxford Street, are quite prepared to meet the requirements of the season in the way of provi- sions. They have a tremendous stock of frnit, meat, hams (pale-dried and smoked), bacon, cake, game, geese, turkeys, &c-, &c. This great estab- lishment, with its business connections far and wide, is able to offer goods of a high standard at most unusually low prices, and thus command a trade enjoyed by few other grocery establish- ments in the Principality. MR. X. GANZ. This well-known goldsmith, jeweller, and watch manufacturer has made special arrangements for the Christmas season. The stock-which is exceptionally large and varied in character- includes a grand assortment of diamond jewellery. This having been bousrht before the recent rise in prices, he offers at the old prices. MR. JOSEPH ALLEN. Mr. Allen, the well-known hairdresser and perfumer, of 65 Wind-street, has made complete arrangements for the daneine season. He has a varied assortment of historical and other wigs on hire, hair ornaments, &c., &c. MR. D. C. JONES, I Castle-square, is making a fine display of the latest winter novelties in dress materials, evening dresses, jackets, capes, millinery, &o. There is ialso a ohoice selection of fancy articles tor the Christmas season. MESSRS. H. FREEDMAN AND SON, 13, College .street. have in their windows a grand show of jewellery, watches, opera glasses telescopes, and various scientific instruments. R. P. CULLEY AND CO., LTD., The Stores, top of Duke-street, are offering to thpP WWmef fRnd.S?[riV' and ales ^outs* of the best quality at the lowest prices. This firm makes a speciality of Scotch Whiskeys.

AGED POOR AND NECESSITOUS SICK. A oorrespondent writes To-morrow (Satur- day) afternoon, at 2 o'clock at the Albert Hall, the Committee of the Aged Poor and Necessitous ck Fnnd for the 32nd year in succession, distribute 21b. beef, j tea, lib. sugar, and loaf of bread, to nearly 700 old people over 60 years. This will make them a substantial Christmas dinner. Later in the evening, about 400 poor widows-some of them we understand have eignt, nine and ten children more or less depen- dent upon them-will be given the bones and peas to make soap, 200 loaves (from Messrs. Weaver, Ltd.), and the met, tea and sugar left after the afternoon distribution. We know of cases where widows with starving young children have been dependent upon this fund for their Christmas dinner. Surely, such a worthy object deserves our generous support, when we know the good that is being done, whilst we live in the midst cf plenty. The amount collected is about X40 less than iast year, and donations will be thankfully received by the Mayor and Mayoress, Asbleigh any of the committee, or Mr. Herbert G. Solomon, 7, Gower-street.

INSTITUTION FUR THE DEAF AND DUMB. TREAT AND XMAS TREE. On Wednesday, through the kindness of friends, the pupils of the Royal Institution of the Deaf and Dumb were given a treat and Christmas Tree, W'f™ ,Re\rW- T" Wat80n and .'Mrs. Watson (St. Jude s), Mrs. Cunningham, Rev J present^* "nd Mt8' Ki"* ">« pupils Bion fll their din,nsr-rooms for the occa- the trei schoolroom, where tne tree had been fixed and decorated. On behalf of the committee, Mr. Joseph Hall, hon. sec., presented the oat-going pupils with Bibles, giving each a few words of kindly advice and good wishes for their future welfare Mrs Payne then presented the prizes to those who merited them in the various classes, also for weaving, manual work, needle work, knitting and housework. Each pupil had a present or two. bag of sweets, and an orange off the tree. A novelty to the children, which delighted and amazed them, were the tricks of a deaf conjuror (Frof. bheldon) who had been engaged for the evening. Altogether a most enjoyable time was spent, the ohildren realising the pleasure they had been anticipating for several weeks past. Many thanks are due to Sir J. J. Jenkins. Mrs Daniel (Essex Villa). Mrs. B. Evans, Sir George N,ewnf8' Bart., M P., Mr. G. E. Cook. Lady LieweJyn, Mrs. Elsworth, Mrs. Hodge (Kilmar- nock), MiRA Watkins (Mayoress), Mr. J. Rosser, Mr. W. Williams (Maesygwernen Hall), Miss M. %r T^r.' Mr,8;. Cunningham, Miss Dowle Jones, j ,^188 Russell (Aberiravenny), Mrs. °?*V ?D^eBr08 Mre- Picton Turberville, and Mr. J. Taylor for their kindness in making the treat possible; also to Mrs Payne, who under- took the trouble and responsibility of providing it and the entertainment.

FOOTBALL. WALES v. ENGLAND. The following is the Welsh team selected to meet England at Cardiff on 5th January next — Back, W. J. Bancroft (Swansea); Three-quarter backs, Gwyn Nicholls (Cardiff ), George Davies (Swansea), Llewelyn (London Welsh), and Trew (Swansea); half-bioks, Lloyd and Phillips (New- port); forwards Hillings (Llwynypia). Hodgss ^ewport), Boots (Newport Bryce (Aberavon). Bob Thomas (Swansea) MiUer (Mountain Ash Blake (Cardiff), and Williams (Pontymieter).'

ST. MATTHEW'S GUILD. SOCIAL EVENING. The St. Chew's Young Men's Guild wound up the first half of the winter session by a social evening at the Albert Restaurant. An excellent repast was provided, which gave universal satis- faction. Humorous speeches were made, and songs, grave and gay, were sung. Mr. D. J. Jones, the musical secretary, was responsible for the programme. The singing of Auld Lan? Syne" bronsrht a most enjoyable evening to a close. f °

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS. WHERE TO GO. The Christmas "bill of fare" at the Grand Theatre, Singleton-street, will beyond doubt meet with the approval of the Swansea theatre-goers generally. For with commend- able enterprise, the management of the Grand engaged Mr. Grcet's Company in the grear four-act play, Quo Vadis," adapted by Mr! Wilson Barrett from Henry R. Sienkiewicz's famous novel of the same name. The first performance will take place o'n Wednesday (Boxing1 Day) morning. The piece will stay at tho Grand Theatre ten days. POOLE'S MYRIORAMA. Chas. W. Poole's latest and up-to-date myriorama. will be at the Albert Hall for a short season only, commencing Dec. 24. Many pleasing features will be introduced, including incidents of the Boer War at Glencoe, Colenso, Belmotat, Elandslaagte, Paardeburg, the Mafeking and Ladysmith sieges, etc., etc.

CHRISTMAS AND THE NEATH SHOPS. [BY OUR NEATH CORRESPONDENT.] He said the Christmas was a humbug, as I live cried Scrooge's nephew. "lie believed it too." Poor old Scrooge, and poor cold-hearted' cynics of the present day who imagine that by their feeble bleating they are going to kill the dear old festival. It still lives, and it will live so long as there are children of all ages to renew their welcome to good old Father Christmas visiting us, and gladly brightening the darkest days of the whole year. A welcome did I say. Yes a welcome such as befits a Monarch. And who so disinterested as the shopkeepers in their to some extent disinterested efforts to assist us iu giving welcome to the truly "Merry Monarch." Despite the sad war, and the consequent depression they are yielding themselves as readily as ever to the influence of the season, and the tempting shows which they make, and which may be seen by all and sundry for nothing, have not been sarpassed in any other Christmas season. These good shopkeepers deserve thanks for their generosity in making such profuse and elaborate displays, for no one can really believe that selfishness prompts them to make these exhibitions. The streets are to many of our neighbours their drawing-room," and it may be held that the shopkeepers, fully conscious of this fact, embark upon a kindly rivalry in order to afford passers-by the brightness, and colour, and tastelul arrangement, which in the mansions of the opulent are furnished to those higuiy favoured persons by means of the costly pictures which adorn their walls. As we who promenade the streets are, let us hope like others developing a grateful state of mind, let us encourage the suggestion of fostering kindly thougnts towards our faithful friends who this year again are increasing our indebtedness to them. Regarding the town generally the displays are tasteful in the extreme, and it is a matter of great regret to the writer that he is unable to give all a notice. As that is manifestly impossible he must content himself with a somewhat hurried survey, and so to speak alighting here and there, dwell for a moment or two upon the more imDurtant displays. The writer is hedged in by limitattoug, and for these he must not be held accountable. We must call upon Mr. Richard Allin, so well established in nis business by reason of the skill and attention which he devotes to it. With a fine extent (I had almost said acreage) of plate glass windows, behind which plate glass there is a a profuse array of good things, which affords a source of never ending wonder to the scrutinising crowds. Excelence is written large over the whole establishment, and it is quite in accord with traditions that amongst soaps Peal's Peer- less Productions should be given special promin- ence. One of the oJd essayists SA) s somewhere that the principal object of work is to enjoy rent, and to feel that that rest has beeu earned. WhtioL an added charm to such rest is afforded by the use of t iat unsurpassable refreshing agent Pears' Soap, which most will know is the standard by which all other soaps are judged. Occupying a truly prominent position in the best business street of the town is the splendid series of shops in which Councillor J. D. Llewelyn, J.P., conducts his ever-increasing business. He has added shop to shop, placing in them the must modern appliances, aad with a staff of assistants who know how to take full advantage of the facilities provided with so liberal a nand the volume of business transacted—every wheel in the machine working with absolute smoothness- is astonish ng. This is an establishment where the productions of Cuivers and Sons-that delightful Engiish firm-are kept well to the fore. Messrs. Chivers supply what may be termed the more artistic concomitants of the Christmas feast. But not only these, but the Messrs. Chi v. rs have most agreeably solved, amidst delightful natural surroundings iu Cambridgeshire, the prob em of fruit-growing and fruit-preserving, The quaint little village of Histon has been lifted into importance by the firm uimed. Think of jams and jellies in ab-olute perfection, and tue name of Chivers is sure to flit across the mind. All. who as yet have not had personal experience of delights to the palate afforded by Chiver's golden plum jam, Chiver's marmalade, and Chiver's mincemeat, not to mention other productions, will not lo.-e time in giving themselves these several treats. There is a marvelions combination in this vast business of Coun. J. D. Llewelyn. Ar- tistic and prosaic articles of every kind enter through its portals, to be afterwards distributed amongst a myriad homes in town and country. This is a season when youthful swains and others go buying presents, and if I may venture to suggest it, there is none more acceptable than a gift of really choice perfume. It is said that the scents of the ancients were entirely dry perfumes, such as myrrh, spikenard, and frankincense, and such like, and these were used rather to perfume the air than the person. Amongst Englishmen there is a feeling against the male sex using perfumes, more especially of the heavy Oriental character. It has been laid down that an English- man may very suitably use such perfume as eau de Cologne, or lavender water. Whether the use of such perfumes will ever become general amongst gentlemen or not, the present writer will not venture to predict, but if it does, he hopes that the choice will fall upon those inimitable productions of that physical philosopher, Sains- bury, of Regent-street, formerly of the Strand. He grows lavender by the acre, and instead of allowing the winds of heaven to carry the per- fumes out to sea, or to the waste places of the earth, he employs his wonderful art, and by a process which must ever be a mystery to man- kind and womankind, be makes that delicious breath of the flowers minister to our comfort and delight. It would seem that it is Sainsbury alone who possesses a full knowledge of this wonderful secret. Now first let us look at the famous Shop yr Oen (Messrs. D. H. Lewis and Co.). Here if anywhere in the town we shall see a truly effective display. Such was the prediction, and to say that that pre- diction is abundantly fulfilled is only doing bare justice to the genial proprietor of the escaoiisnment, and his clever shop front "dresser." Never has so effective a display been made at this shop, and in making this statement I do not forget the triumphs of past years. Mr. D. H. Lewis has announced himself as a believer in coal, but no one will,assert that he has any con- nection with the plastic arts. All the same, in his windows are some beautiful objects, not in any way connected with drapery. This inter- polation, so to speak, irresistibly draws public attention to the articles with which it is associated, and thus promotes their sale. What deft use is made of these embroidered sachets, and sparkling scent flasks, the latter charged with these wonderfal distillations which have made the name of Labern a household word. Messrs. Labern, so Mr. D. H. Lewis will tell you, produce a charming perfume styled "White Heather," upon wh;ch the ladies, if it were suitable, would even lavish their affection. They aro also decided in their praises of Labern's Eau de Cologne," and the far-farmed Flower of France." So that when those best of judges, the ladie&, add their favourable testimony to that of Mr. D. H. Lewis, tho case in favour of Labern is complete. This exquisitely-arranged window is Mr. Samuel Dunn'H. and the window show is due to the clever brain and fingers of Mrs. Dunn. There are here choice fruits in abundance, and from all clime-1. Pine-apples, clusters of bananas (a young gentleman from the Rhondda Valley the other day called them saveloys), Java oranges, Newton pippins, grapes in purple glory. and every possible fruit, sug- gesting the delights of Eden before the Fall-here they are in wondrous profusion. And more than fruits, for inside the shop are pyramids of boxes of chocolate from the famous firm of Cadbury. In these days, when the County Council of Glamorgan has sent out its fiat that not only beer, but also sweets must be analysed, so that deadly arsenic may be detected, it behoves one to buy sweets from only the old-established and reputable deal- ers. No one ever has been known to doubt the absolute reliability of Cadbury's manufactures, and it is these Mr. Dunn displays with so much effect. We next find ourselves outside the bril- liant establishment of Moss's. Stead & Simpson, the firm who, in their immense boot and shoe factories, manufacture all their wares, and thus ensure first-class quality. It is really a m >st attractive exhibition, and the steady winning of popular favour which the mannger (Mr. Huins) is happily experiencing is net at all to be wondered at. Turning into Orchard Street we come upon a brand new Tobacconist's shop, fitted op in the best up-to-date style-its attractivene-s is note- worthy. Smokers' requisites to suit the endless variety of tastes are displayed in the cases and ranged on shelves. This establishment is not opened on Sundays—a fact which ought to weigh with the public who believe in having a day of rest for themselves. Messrs. Glass and Roberts make an unusually fine display, the pavement in front of their shop being thronged from morning till night by sightseers intent on seeing the enormous bear giving the reindeer its final hug. This is not the only attraction to this window, as the arrangement of articles dear to the feminine 'line heart is such as can rarely be seen. In a corner ot the general market is the office and sitting room of Mr. John Hill. the wide y-known China dealer. Whilst Mr. Hill in person occupies but small space in the corner of the market as stated, his wares extend in various directions, until to the writer in his simplicity it would seem that it is a stock which will last for years. Mr. Hill smiles that characteristic smile of his, aud Mrs. ?a a™Q8ed as the observation is made and the writer is told that there are several more large crates to come in to-morrow. Now we must hurry, for we must call at Ye Fancyries. Here there is a veritable Christmas show which all the good little boys and girls of Noath should at least be allowed to see. It is a sight which will not be forgotten. Here we may add is the depot for W ladour and Newton's artists' requisites of all de- scriptions. Let us retrace our steps for a moment, so that we may not miss what many would say is the finest show in Neath-that at the shop of Messrs. Davies and Sons, jewellers. The show is one of the Arabian nights fancies realised. Some people talk of the deftness of Frenchmen in mak- ing effective displays. Let those persons go to see the silver, and gold, and choice Worcester ware at Messrs. Davies and Sons, and they will pay no more about Paris and its allurements. Next there is Mr. Hawkins, the hatter. His shop front is as great a marvel of arrangement as ever. Who would have imagined that so effective a dis- play would be made with stiff, neckless collars and regiments of neckties. But the feat is per- formed here, and with marvellous success. Now for our old friend Mr. W. Inch Moore-he has always been, every inch of him, a window dresser. Curved is the line of beauty, Straight is the path ot duty. These are two articles in the business creed of Mr. Moore. He carries out the first in his sunerb window decorations, and with charming effect, and he is absolutely true to the other in his mode of doing business. And how well Mr. Moore knows how to use decorative materials Give him a dozen boxes of Tom Smith's Crackers and he will perform wonders. Speakinsr of Tom Smith, I am sure that if the children thought that Father Christmas could die they would ask for Tom Smith to reign in his stead. Who may come second as a producer of delightful crackers I am not concerned to know. This I do know, and so does Mr. Moore, that Tom Smith is far and away at the top. We have a look at Mr. T. H. Hawkins, where there is on view a section of Madame Tussaud s exhibition. Mr. Hawkins is much es- teemed for the excellence of his wares, his ready- made clothing being of an excellent texture, that even hig-h-spirited youth are unable to wear them out. We must take a long draught with our eYP8 outside the establishment of Mr. Chas. Wagstaff. the Windsor Sweeteries. Whoever misses seeing this shop and its window display, and its show- room, and does not avail himself or herself of having some sweets dispensed to them by Mrs. Waestaff or her niece, does not live up to his privileges. Next we have a look at Mr. Sam Arnold's establishment, where a novel display is made in the shape of a revolving exhibit in the window of an assortment of ties and collars, with r cere ana tnere a bottle of perfume revealing itself. What is meant by good scent ? Why, that made from the real extract of flowers, to be sure. First on the list for Durity comes the well-known brand "4,711," of Eau de Cologne in cases of dainty design, just suitable for Christmas and New Year's presents. Miilhens' 4,711 is pre- pared from the original receipt, and holds a su- preme position as a perfume for the sick room. Next a call at the shop of Mr. Ivor Jones, chemist, where can be relieved and cured, so I am told, all the ills that flesh is heir to. It is a par- ticularly bright shop, and the proprietor may be seen at all times. It is not altogether a pleasing thought that he will doubtless be busy this Chris- mas. The Windpo Bakery—who does not know it? Excellence of the quality of Mr. Sfceckbam's productions have won him the position of a trades- man thoroughly trusted. He is up-to-date in all re-pects. and customers flock to him early and late. Next, Mr. H. L. Thomas, with his famous Sonthgate Stores, where the specialities are Welsh bacon, Welsh ham, Welsh cheese, and Welsh butter. Mr. Thomas has made great additions to his premises, and his stock is not surpassed in the town or district. Mr. Levi James is. we can see, up to his eyes in business, as may plainly be seen. All the same he can spare two minutes, in which he sa.ys that he has had a bu-Ir time this Christmas-all fruit sold. Greater demand for what may be termed luxuries. While these words were being uttered a squad of assistants were clearing out what seemed to be tons' weight of goods to load uo in carts at the door of the shop. It ie a grand thing to be busy, and I am sure that whatever honey Mr. James secures as the result of his method, his industry and his integrity he fully deserves. One word more-A Happy Christmas tc all who have accom- panied me in my peregrinations.

SWANSEA BOARD OF GUARDIANS. RATE COLLECTOR CALLED UPON TO RESIGN. A meeting of the Swansea Board of Gnardians was held yesterday (Thursday) morning. Present: The Rev. Gomer Lewis, D.D. (Chairman), Mr. F. H. Glynn Price (Vice-chairman); Mrs. C. H. Perkins, Mrs. H. W. Paton, Mrs. M.E. Williams, Mrs. r. Harris; Revs. J. Alban Davies. and J, Harries; Messrs. Philip Jenkins, Wm. Wiliams (Wern), J. Harvey, — Devonald, H. G. Solomon, J. Lewis, J. W. Johnston, D Griffiths, J. Edwards, J. Richards, D. Jenkins. W.G. Davies W. R. Morgan. S. Jones, W. H. Mill, J. Thomas, J. Jenkins. W. Clemeat, J. W. Jones, J. H. Stevens, W. Sims, Griff. Davies, D. Davies E. Auckland, J. F. Collett, Meredith, and the Clerk (Mr. Ll. Jenkins). THR POOR-RATE COLLECTION. The Clerk read a letter frem the Local Govern- ment Board acknowledging the receipt of the Guardians' letter of the 7th inst., and transmit- ting for their information a copy of a letter which the Board that day had addressed to Mr. William Thomas, requiring him forthwith to resign his office as Collector of Poor Rates for the Town Division of the Parish of Swansea. The Board wished to express their great regret at the delay which had accurred in dealing with the matter The copy of the letter sent by the Local Go- vernment Board to Mr. William Thomas was as follows "I am directed by the Local Government Board to state that they have had under their consideration the reports of the District Auditor upon the accounts kept by you as Collector of Poor Rates for the Town Division of the Parish of Swansea, together with your explanation and the reports of the investigation re the mitter by the Guardians of the Swansea Union and that they are of the opinion that it was not desirable that you should retain that office. The Board must therefore request you forthwith to place your resignation in the hands of the Guardians." The Rev. Alban Davies, having seen the above communications mentioned in the Press, wanted to know if the information came from the Clerk's Office. He considered that they should first hear of matters like that in the Board-room. (Hear, hear). The Clerk replied in the negative. Mr. D. Davies knew very well where the Press got the information. He assured the Guardians it was not from the Clerk or the other officials. Mr. Philip Jenkins 'remarked that the Rev. Alban Davies had raised a very important question. If the information did not come from the office of the Clerk, then where did it come from ? Was it from the Local Government Board officials ? (Oh !) Mr. Johnston said the last speaker seemed to forget the fact that not only was the Local Government Board's communication sent to the Guardians, but to the person most interested as well. Mr. Davies thought that it was quite enough for the Guardians to know that it did not come from their officials. The Clerk then read the letter from the rate collector tendering his resignation. Letters were received from the local members of Parliament-Sir Geo. Newnes, Mr. J. A. Thomas, and Mr. Brynmor Jones—stating that on Monday they saw Mr. Long, who told them he would eive the matter early attention. Mr. D. Davies asked the clerk whether, under the terms of the resignation, Mr. Wm. Thomas could claim superannuation. The Clerk There are certain conditions in the Poor Law Officers' Superannuation Act with which every officer must comply-serving for a certain time, or resigning for some reason. In my opinion Mr. Tnomas does not comply with these provisions, and therefore does not come under the Act in any case. In answer to Mr. Solomon, Mr. Jenkins said he had written to the Local Government Board to know definitely when Mr. Thomas' resignation would take effect. The answer was "at once." He WliS also informed that it was desirable that the Gu -rdi-ins should at once acquaint the Corporation (who now had the power of appoint- inz the assistant overseers) of the fact. The Rev. Alban Davies moved that the Corpo-ation be recommendei to secure the services of Mr. Wm. Thomas' assistants, on the ground that, with their long experience, they w nld be very useful so the Borough Treasurer, After a lot of discussion, a small committee was struck to meet the Finance Committee of tie Swansea Corporation with regard to the matter. On the motion of Mr. Solomon a vote of thanks was accorded the local members of Parliament, for their assistance in bringing things to a head. THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD AND DR. HOWEL THOMAS. Relative to the proceedings of Dr. H,)wel Thomas, Medical Officer of the 1st District of the SwanselL Union, in the case of the deceased child of Elizabeth Matthews, the Local Government Board wrote stating that they can not regard the letter addressed by Mr. Thomas to the Guardians as affording a satisfactory explana- tion of his failure to visit the case after the 25th September. They agreed with the opinion of the committee appointed by the Guardians to investigate the matter that such cases shonld bo followed up, and that a further application should not be required. The Board considered that haviner once seen the child, and being conse- quently aware of its condition, Dr. Howel Thomas should certainly have continued his visits. Although he might consider the case hopeless, he could not be aware as to whether or not he might be able to alleviate the sufferings of the patient. The Board considered Mr. Thomas'si proceedings as deserving of severe censure, and t >ev requested that that expression of opinion might be sent to him by the Guardians. THE BURIAL OF PAUPERS. Mr. Collett submitted a report of a committee which recommended the purchasing of a £ 20 6 0H1 BirminSham firm at a cost of ml J* which ensued mention was 6 ffcP tbat two paupers were the other day conveyed in a cart from the Workhouse through the streets to the Cemetery at Danygraig, ThP Sf •SerV1'5e read by the undertaker • C ,?rman the matter had been thrown th^l several times. He was ashamed to like SwanseaC & ° be done in a town Mr. Harvey said at present they only had what a bofrey to convey paupers to the nn^M- r7!, was ashamed of that. They hear ) G & shellibere ago. (Hear, indigestion was expressed that the un- The Aot shoufd ^aye Performed the funeral rites. The Act legulating the burial of paupers, which was read, stated | that the service must be con- ducted by a minister of the denomination to which the pauper belonged, "and not, if possible, by any other person." After further discussion the whole matter of the burial of paupers was re- ferred to a committee. ETCETERAS. «.t'H!ISw kl^i!0^ ^aIver was appointed a nurse at the Workhouse. Mr. Henrv Studt wrote in- that' ae usna1' fae intended Homia + children of the Workhouse and Cottage KoSi'XS i- corded to each of these zentlemen. The Chairman announced an anonymou. donation of R5.

THE TRADE OF THE PORT AND DISTRICT. SPECIAJ REPORT BT OCR OWN CORRESPONDENT SWANSEA, THURSDAY. nW^e; ?S jecn °pneiderable briskness dis- P7^ 111 trade at the docks in the past week but the coal and fu*1 shipmentsa « £ od last ,S° tJ' Period of general merchandise wlJich <tmounts to -:Jp- sh.pped' inTw'S? and has hardly ever been exceededljntrie of 29 PfifiT ^Ua8t' 25.323 tons as against tons last^ear preV10us week- and 32.953 2inchanTPX\ioSdeandFr,aer- Pit™J' Be^ge^ ox r op&m, iron ore T'ni+A-i Stetes. steel bars and general. nited tons Straits rv1°U?Tand °deesa, 5.350 M 'PAO- 2'300 New York, 508 tons IMPORTS COASTWISE.—Pie-iron 1 i^ tinplates, 113 tons copnfr ° e" '07 pitch, 350 tons building inaterial^ c00 tons I.oT9n'ton6s.t0nS P°tat0ef' 37 sundries', 2.01,9 tons. ISFPOKTS FOREIGN. France, pitwoij 2 305 tons zinc ore, 105 tons silver ore 75 V0™ general 345 tons. Bilbao, iron ore 2 500 Renerd lfoT' gene £ al- 120,tons = Hamburg. tons New Yort Portufai- pitwood- 385 ions rsew York, general. 509 tons • Phiin delphia, steel bars, 950 tons. 61 7n £ °frtS 12,531 tcm8 £ Lnd exports foreign eMS JT-.SSSKST.'IS, £ 2?tons pa^TS. gSFSSfS, tSX«t0rni general goods, 12,253 toAs. "npJat<?s SWANSEA COUNCIL MEMB:E:RS' EXPENSES. RIRLN«COM- bills amounting to ov;r^ £ 20th\ ckair' S J^A-SSS 'TIE went m accordance -a-n h „ .e members Council. The Sn Clci ,C!r^tl0n of the were cmnowerorl f „ said the committee made unless a reso]uts^f°aaJv exi>CIlses bo expenditure could be S^ch opposed and said th-it f- Tut*on that certain mom here of U WW. Mr. MSbr||r,ldUu„tCth°S'litrre to ask a councillor to nav l.iV ^air th jn have to wait fnr expenses and funded. The to be two dissentienS80^ ^♦+CfirnedJ Wlth elair. Another Vcounfwf Vb « 'Td Sin" was an item of £ 27 costs "Y,c -r^S .dlscU8Sie<* oessfully fightine a'lif^t-^1 ,ln U11SUC" pointod out that in tho. It was rcalJv tho ch-'ef conofokVf' v Wa8 spondent the Corj^oraTion TralSp th% re" order to pay was now made C' and 4111 SWANSEA AND DISTRICT TEACHERS' ASSOCIATION. ?»*• ..socu- to. Hirtcr a, Cen- K;!WS- VE°: grcjg socretarv \F J- T T Y;, Dany- Natdotoal H. G School Chappell, R-oborts, BrynhVWri? > "usurer, Mr. T. W. B. DavL, SnLP^C:;etai7> Mr- c-iftntim, Mossrs. J. W^Llw-T^6-■ for H. G. School and W V. prcviJenl secretary Mr. J^U w nmi!'1 Mornsoon nariinrnm,^ ^ajnes Williams, Musors. J. 'R.. Dorics T WNH 0.,wcrt„„. •'• Tom John, and W C Tenl-ir^ s' Messrs. the Executive of tho N U 'T° nomJD^d Coward (Bristol), bwria^r^Vr & to th. -wS S tKf • > ict on Hand and Eve" ,1 tl)C dls" vciient o«».to. uaining on a con-

LLANDILO. [BT OUR OWV COEE.spoiTOim'.] LLANDILO COUNTY SCHOOL. ANNUAL PRIZE DISTRIBUTION. Victwia^Drill^Hal/^on"Was held at th<> Gwynne HugheT ,Mr' J- W- report and prize list will appearTextwee^ PRESENTATION AT LLANDILO marriage (which took place thl wSi °f.4,her purse of cold containing-Mbout £ 8 « K M f a Hymn Book. Miss Edwards rsi„ B,bITeT' and made the presentation Mi88 ennen House, thanks in a very pretty speech ^turae? father also spoke a few words TH? ^omaL8 Rhydderch and Rev. Willinmo T" E. Davies Hpnm A v a an<^ Messrs. J. congratulated Miss Thomas and wished her IODg life and happiness. inoma8 and ™*ed her long

RAILWAY RETURNS. RHONDDA & SWANSEA BAT RAILWAY The following are the traffic returns for th« emtn.tr D.c. Hi i»oo, M compared with puuuing wees in 1899:— lorvi — No. of Miles open oo" Passengers(Loctl) *0 Choods & Minerals. i 07a •••».. £ "228 1"27b 1,095 Total for the Week 1 vi~- „ 24 Weeks ,0 1. 83 Increase this wees *-$<•>' -— 38.36 > • -• Increase 24 weeks, £ 439. f" T*T_ 1 makhitr Tfailwi^y, an increase of £ 6,290 £ 114 130 ^STeRate increase for 24 weeks of London and North-Western Railway, an in- weeks. £ 80,1m 28' aggmgate increase for 24 weeklq. £80,9i8. Taff Vaie Railway, an increase 'of XI,167 aggregate decrease, 24 weeks, £24,498. Brecon and Merth-r Kaiiway, a decrease of £ 283, aggreeate lr crease for 24 weeks, £ 1 4*2 Barry Railway, an iucrease]of £ 440 aggree&t*