The Cambrian

CAEASALEM NEWYDD. CYFAEFOD SEFYDLU. Diwrnod hynod yn hanes yr eglwys uchod oedd diwrnod y sefydlu, yr hwn gymerodd Ie ar y 17eg o'r mis hwn. Ni bu ei fath yma er ys droa ddeng mlynedd ar hugain. Yr oedd yma ganoedd na wyddent beth oedd sefydln gweinidog. Diwrnod niwlog, tywyll, a da iawn, oedd diwrnod ymadawiad yr anwyl ddiweddar BARCH. ISAAC THOMAS. Diwrnod yr oedd yn hawddach wylo na pheidio. Mae yr egiwys hon wedi bod yn ei dagran byth oddiar hyny. Gweinidogion dyeithr sydd wedi bod yn y pwlpnd hwn am ddwy flynedd, y rhai fyddent, bob un, yn coffa am yr arch-bregethwr Isaac Thomas, nes gweled canoedd yn eu uagrau. Gwelir nad yw yr eglwys wedi bryaio i ddewis gweinidog newydd. Nid byehan y pryder a'r gofal i geisio cadw eglwya o amryw ganoedd o aelodau gyda'u gilydd beb weinidog O'r diwedd pendetfynwyd ar frawd, rhoddwyd galsvad iddo, ac atebodd ei fod yn derbyn y cytryw. T SBFYDLIAD. Cynaliwyd y aefyddad mewn cysylltiad a chyf- arfodydd blynydaol yr egiwys, yn mua rai yr oedd yParchn. R. E. Williams (1 wrfau), Aberdar, ac E. W. Davies, Ton, YSLhd, yn pregetha. Pre- gethodd y ddau frawd yn rhagoroi. Yn nghyfarfod olaf y gyftea cymerwyd y gadair gan y Parch. W. P. Williams, D.D., Glandwr, yr hwn mewn araeth fer, bwrpasol, a blasus, a ddy- wedodd ycbydig ar arncau y oyfartod, yn nghyd a llongyfarch a dymuno Duw yn rhwyud i'r eglwys a.'r gweinidog leuanc newydd. Yna galwodd ac Mr. W. Harry, yagrifenydd eglwys Caersaletn, i ddweyd gair ar y modd y rhoddwyd galwad i'r FABCH. JNO. EDWARDS, BULAH, NEWBRIDGE, yr hyn a wnaetti yn eglnr lawn. Sylwodd fod yr eglwys wedi ymddiried y dewisiad i'r diaconiaid, fod y rhai hyny yn rhy bryderua i ymudiried iddynt ac ynudynt ea hnnain, fel y darfa iddynt benderfynu myned ar eu giiniaa i ofyn am i Dduw ddewia y gweinidog newydd. Rhoddoud Mr. Harry bwyslais ar mai nid gofyn i Dduw am Mr Edwards wnaethant, ona golyn iddo am anion brawd u'i ddewiaiad ei hun, pwy bynag fyddai. sylwodd hetyd tod peth yn profi fod a .fyno Daw â,'r dewtaitid ac tod yr egiwya, mewn canlyniau, wedi rhoddi gwahoddiad cynnes ao unfrydol (heb un yn i'r Parch. John Edwards, Gobeithiai na fyddai neb yn euog o wrthweithio dylanwad da y gweinidog newyud. Yna gofynodd y llywydd i'r gweinidog newydd am ychydig eiriau, yr hyn a wuaeth mewn ysbryd llednais iawn. sylwodd ar y modd y deroyniodd yr aiwad, yn nghyd a'r dylanwad oedd arno i'w derbyn, nas gaLLai gytfit am dano, ac fel y dartu iddo ei derbyn gan obeithio y byddai Duw yn rhoi ei tendith ar yr uuiad. Siaradodd Mr. Edwards yn doddedig neiilduol. Cymerwyd rhan yn y uytariod gan y brodyr canlynol Par-snn. W. J. Lewis, iSiiottm. Kdlay J. Lewis, Llanelli; J. W. Lewis, ireioma; B. Lewis, Llangytelaeh; 1(,. Lewis, Oraigcetuparc; T. J. Daviea, Waunarlwydd; D. Hughes, DOlau; D. O. Jones, lidofod; H. D. Clement, (Jwmruy .y- ceirw; D. Rees, Ystaiyfera; K. E. Williams, Aberdar, S. F. Ruberta, Poutliiw; J. Gimblett, Tretorria; T. T. Kichards, Kaven Hill; D. Samnel, Tretorris; D. H. Jiicharas Bryuhytryd E. W. Dayies, Ton; J. Daniel (A.), Myuyddbach; ac E. R. Daniel, Ysw., Uwmgeiii. Hefyd, derbyuiwyd llythyrau oddiwrth y rhai oanlynol:—Paronn. W. Keea, Ebbw Vale; C. Kees, Abercam T. C. Dayies, Llanhidael; W. Morris, F.R.G..S., Treorei; W. Edwards, D.D., Caerdydd; J. WIllIam", Brynmawr; W. Uew. elyn, Liangyuidr M. George (M.), Newbritdge E. Phillips, Yaw Newbridge J. M. Jones, New- bridge; W. Jouea (jd.), Tretorcia; a derbyniwyd bryaxieges oddiwrth y Parca. T. V. Evans, 01.) dBoOb. Darilenodd y Parch. E. W. Daviea, Ton, y. englynion canlynol, gyfanaoddwyd gan Mr. D Jones, Treboetn:— Brwd, arbenig, bo'r derbyniad—i'w was Roed lesu roesawiad; Ein bywiol a'n dwyfol Dad Anadlo i'r Setydliad." Hir, hir oes, hwyr ei arosiad—i'w fedd Fyddo'i ymadawiad 01 ftub rnwyag a chieddyf brad, Na noilter y cysylltiad. loan anwyl! Eneiniad—y nef fwyn Ofynwn yn waatad; A'n llaid y <v, O doea lleshad, Hedd, a rhiuwedd, o'r aniad. Ac ar lafur ein cariad,"—y "weddi," A'r baddioi bregetaiad Eiu Hior ni, fyn O'I net fad, Ryw ddilu w o arddeliad. Gweiwch fod v Parch. John Edwards wedi cael derbyniad cynhes i Gaersalem Newydd. Yr oedd y capei yn orlawn, ac cgeiuiaayn aietnu oael lie. Fel y dywedwyil yn y cyfarfod, mae Mr. Edwards wedi dou yn olynydd I serapu o bregecti- wr, ond gyda Duw gall wneyd gwaith mawr. Y Du w fu gyda. Moses tyddo gyda Jushua eto. Teg fyddaiynomgyduabou Mr. a Mrs. Sampson am eu caredigrwydd ar y diwrnod hwn—yno y bu y brodyr oil yn cael lluniaeth ar 01 cylarfod y pryduawn. Bendith ar y aefydliad. Treboeth. D. JONES.

"YNGANU GEIRIAU YN AN- MHRIODOL." GAN ASAPH GLYN COTHI. Fel ag yr ydym wedi dyweyd yn flaenorol, mae y cann cynulleidfaol, o ran ei gwrs cerddorol, wedi gwella llawer yn Nghymru yn ystod yr haner eanrif diweddat; ond paham yr esgenlusir y geirian—e:/aid y gan? Onid ydyw yn ?yn fod y mwyafrif o'n cantorion yn cana y frawddeg gan- lynol fel hyn— Odd iym ai dy," 4c. Pa yatyr aydd i'r fath eiriau? Ac nid yw yr uehod ond un eugraifft o ganoedd o'r cyffelyb! A ydyw y gymaufa ganu wedi ateb dyben ei aef- ydliad yn y cyteiriad yma? Fel hyn y dywed y bardd— "Oddi yma i dj," &c. Gwelir fod y ddau air cyntaf yn ddau sill, gan hyny caner dau sill ar un nod, yn ol cyfarwyddyd Ieuan Gwyllt, Dr. Parry, Golygwyr y Cerddor* ac ereill. Mae y peth mor symi ag y gall plentyn ei gyflawni yn hollol rwydd.§ Pan cyfansoddodd Ieuan Gwyllt y ddwy don ar eiriau Ann Griffiths, fe wnaeth y sylw canlynol ''Pan y ceir sill yn necbreu llinell yn gwneyd y llinell hono yn rhy hir yn ol y mesur, caner y sill gyntaf ar y sain gyntaf o'r don. Felly, fe wel pob cerddor sydd t'i lygaid yn ei ben, fod y geirian yn canu yn gyf- lawn. Os gellir ei wneyd mewn rhai atngyich- iadau, geilir ei wneyd yn mhob amgylchiad. Oa na chenir y geiriau yn gywir, mae y cyfan allan o Ie." Oni fyddai yn beth dymanol pe y cymerid at hyii ar ddechreu yr ugeinted ga-nttf, yn lie ym. foddloni ar gyflwyno y cloff a'r anafus yn fawl i'r Goruchaf? Dymunaf apelio yn daer uuwaith etc at ein harweinwyr, ein gweinidogion, a'r egiwyai, i gymeryd at hyn o ddifrif, er perffeithio y rhan bwyaig non o waaanaeth y cyaegr. Gwel Cerddor Ebrlll, 1899. § Gwel Llyfr Hymnau y M.C. >

EISTEDDFOD CWMIFOR. „ AT OLYGTDD T CAMBRIAN." STB,—Caniatewch i mi ofod fechan o'cb new- yddiadur poblogaidd i draethu ychydig hanes am £ eisteddfod nciiod, os gweiwch fod yn dda. Mae wer o ddisgwyl wedi bod am dani, ac y mae wedi bod ar faes eich newyddiadur gan y Llwyn- og;" ac y mae yn debyg ei fod yn Llwynog hefyd, yn ngwirystyr y gair, cyn ei fod yn gwybod hanes pawb a phob peth. Wel, mae'n rhaid myn'd at yr banes, bellach, er cael tipyn o ymborth i'r Llwynog" erbyn y tro neaaf Llywyddwyd gan Mr. J. Daviea, Llwynyr- hebog. Yr oedd y gadair yn un fawr, ond gellir dweyd iddo ei Hanw hyd yr ymylon mewn med- roBrwydd a gallu i gadw y bobl wrth eu bodd, ac yn deilwng o'r lie oedoynt ynddo, sef y oapel. Clorianwyd yr ymgeiawyr gan y rhai canlynol:— Cerddoriaeth Parch. Hosfh Daviea (Pencerdd Maelor), Abertawe. Amrywiaeth: Mr. John James, Llwyncelyn, Handiio; a gwnaethant eu dyledswyddan yn ganmoladwy iawn. Ond tebyg 1180 chafodd pawb eu boddhnu, yr hyn fuasai yn anmhosibl yn unol a chydwybod y beirniaid. Dan gor oedd yn cynyg^am y brif wobr, sef cor Cwmifor a cbor y Maer," o Llangadog. Mae yn flin gt-nym nel. cby baetldodd y "maer" bach ei »mca y tro hwn fe gollodd y wobr y tro hwn, ond na ddiga>oned y brawci, gan fodynagynyg arall i fod ariu etc. Bydded i'r "maer" gofio ■aai wrth fyned 'nol ma. casglu nerth i fyu'd yn mlae'n. D:m ond ditiiC wnaeth coi- Cwmifor yhag cael rhanu y wobr k'c "ouaer" y tro yma. Rhanwyd y wobr am yr wytbawd rhwng cor Llan- dilo a Manordilo, dan arweiniad medrus David Evans, post-office. Ymddengys y manylion yn yr adroddiad Saesoneg. Fe gafwyd ysgrifenydd medrus yn mherson y brawd James Evans, Coach and Horses, yr hwn a gyflawnodd ei waith mor ddehenig a threfnus nea gwneyd yr eisteddfod yn llwyddiant perffaith yn mbob yatyr. Mae lie i ofni nad yw ein heisteddfodau yr hyn a ddyleut fod, gan fod llawer o'n cantorion a'n cerddorion yn troi y Sabbath at eu gwasan- aeth i barctoi ar gyfer cystadleuaeth. Dylid cofio mai er mwyn dyn mae y Sabbath wedi ei wneyd, ao nid er mwyn eisteddfod. Gobeithiaf y cymerir yr awgrym yn garedig. Dewch yn sryno i Eis- teddfod Llangadog.—Yr eiddoch, &c., AMICL'S. — —

Y FFWL CREFYDDOL. Obobffwl, medd Y Drych, yffwl crefyddol sydd debycaf o fyned i'r eithafoedd ynfytaf gyda ei olygiadan. Y mae crefydd yn gwneyd dyn yn gallach neu yn ffolach o lawer na phobl ereill. Y mae arwyddion amlwg y dyddiau hyn, fod crefydd llawer yn rhedeg i chwyn. Cyfeiiiornant ar ol dychymygion yn lie ymlynu wrth sylwedd moes crefydd. Y mae pob crefydd arweinia ddyn oddiwrth ofalu am dano ei hun yn gyfeiliornus. Ond yr ynfydrwydd penaf yw ceisio dwyn Duw i lawr i gefnogi a hyrwyddo ein dylni ni ein hunain! Yn Kansas, yn ddiweddar, yr oedd ymdrech bel droed i gymeryd lie, rhwng ysgolheigion dan goleg, ac aeth ysgolheigion y naill i weddïo ar Dduw am y fuddugoliaeth iddynt hwy a dywed y Parch. Stewart Smith iddynt wnevd yn eithaf iawn y dylai pobl fyned a'u gofidiau i Dduw er cael ei gymhorth a golenni ei wyneb! Y mae y drafodaeth yn barod wedi achosi eyffro yn y eymydogaeth. —♦

BARDDONIAETH. BEDDARGRAFF. GWR anwyl y gwirionedd-un mawrgoeth Oedd Morgan—gem rbinwedd Yn ei farw cawn ei fawredd Yn golofn byw ar gulfain bedd. PELAGITTS.

YR AREITHFA. i. Awen siriol, cywilyddia! P'am segyru 'rhyd dy oes ? Deffro, caha i'r areithfa, Cofia Aberth mawr y Groes; Hoffus gaH yw hon, a grasol, I bregethu'n nhy ein Tad, Ynddi ceir bendittiion nefol, A rhinweddau'r Dwytol wa'd. II. Teimlo presenoldeb Iesu Yn gwir ysgatnhau ein bron, Cofio am yr adgyfodi, Cawn fwynhad o safle hon Clywyd ynddi awn taranau, Gwelwyd fflachiad mellteu chwim Yn ymauddo i gol yr oedfa, Megya brathiad cleddyf llym. in. Cysegredig wyt, areithfa, Gyda Dwyfol eiriau pur, Gweision lesa a gyhoedda Ffordd i'r baradwyaaidd dir; Dwyfol borth i'r byw rhwng deufyd, Ydyw hi a safle graa, Cludir meirwon byd i fywyd At yr lor trwy gyfrwng gwaa. IV. 0 ddoniolaf wir areithfa, Clywed ydym lawer lief, Yn dy gol gan weia Jehofah, Ac ewyllys Arglwydd Net Rhyw esgynlawr rhwng yr eglwya A cherubiaid Nef wyt ti— Rhwng y ddaear a Pharadwya, Hoffus gan ein Ceidwad cu. PBLAGIUS. ♦

DYDD GWYL DEWI. [Wele gan dlos Alafon ar Ddydd Gwyl Dewi," o Geninen Gwyl Dewi. ] (Alaw—" Ar D'wysog Gwlad y Bryniau." Ni ganwn heddyw'n gynhes Ddi-rith wladgarol gerdd, A gwisgwn ar ein mynwes Ein hen geninen werdd. Gwlad Awen, Ddydd Gwyl Dewi, A gaiff ein serch i gyd,— A'i than a draidd wythienni Trwy bedwar cwr y byd. 0 Walia, er pob gelyn, Dy bieidio wna dy blant, A dal dy glod ar delyn Ar Ddydd Gwyl Dewi Sant. Yn felus Ner a folant, Medd enwog fardd a fu; En gwiwdeg iaith a gadwant, Yn gacaid ac yn gu: Eu gwuiliog dir a gollant, Ond Gwalia hoff ei han; Yn ddilyth hon a ddaliant, Tra deil yn gartre' dyn. O Walia, er pob gelyn, &c. Er gwel'd goludog wledydd, Ni welwn is y nen Gu lanerch ddwg laweuydd Fel distaw Walia wen. Ar anwyl Wlad y Bryniau, A'i holl rinweddau hi, A nawdd ei hen fynyddau, Boed bythol freiniol fri. 0 Walia, er pob gelyn, Dy bleidio wna dy blant, A dal dy glod ar delyn Ar Ddydd Gwyl Dewi Sant. ALAFON. A dyma un arall o'r Drych;— MEWN adeg gynhyrfus ar eglwya y plygain A blanwyd gan ddwylaw'r Apostol yn Mhrydain 0 bieidiau, ymladdau, heresiau, a phoenau, Daeth arwydd tawelwch ar wyneb y tonau, I Sandde a Non deg, o lin dy wysogaidd, Yn Mynyw, Sir Benfro, hen wiad baradwysaidd. 0 fewn i bum' canrif 'rol toriad y wawrddydd, Caed Dewi, fab bychan, i fod yn waredydd. Y baban tlws hoew mewn pryd daeth i fynu Y n factigen golygus, awyadus i ddysgu Tan ofat Pawl Hen yn y Ty Gwyn ar Daf, lwya. Cymhwyswyd ei yrfa er adfer yr egiwys. Yn llawn o brydferthwch ac urddaa ei berson, Hoenusrwydd meddyliol, caruaidd amcanion, Mewn sel ymueiilduodd er mantais grefyddol I ympryd a gweddi—cynaliaeth yabrydol. Ty Ddewi y Rhos ydoedd lie ei gynteddau, Ond eto ymdeithiai droa froydd a bryniau Mewn gwarth o dosturi, i bawb oedd mewn angen, Cyfranai ef ymborth gan wneuthur einsen-" Bu'n fywyd i'r tlodien, yn dad i'r amdditad, Yn noddfa i'r weddw, i'r mynach yn brofiad; Fe ddysgai ddysgawdwyr, gwnai bob peth er enill Eneioiau at Geiawad, tra'n byw ary "gweddill." Ei urddas d'wysogaidd yn rhwydd a ddiosgai, Mewn hunanymwadiad dirwestaidd fe weithiai; Efe a'i gyfeillion, sef Padarn a Teilo, Gyd-dreulient nosweithiau mewn gweddi a gwylio. Grasusau y Cristion yn helaeth a teddai, Ac a'r fatli rymusder ai allan a llwyddai. Dirgelwch ei lwyddiant yn mhlaid ei Waredwr Oedd caru'r creadur a gweini i'r Crewr. Er amlder ei rwyatran a'r eriid mawr arno Ei fwa aroaodd yn gryf a diwyro. Y gelyn gorselog, ei or if wrthwynebwr, A arodd garedigrwydd yn brif amddiffynwr. Heresi Pelagius Forganaidd a ddrylliai, Hen wreiddiol bechodau cyturyblus gyffesai. Mewn gallu dynoiiaeth ni fawr ymddiriedai, Gwell ganddo ymorphwys ar Un a'i gwaredai. Fel teyrnged o barch catodd etholedigaeth Yn Eagob goruchaf yr holl Dy wysogaeth. Boddlonrwydd y nefoedd amiygwya i'n gwron Mewn llwyddiant, hir ddyddiau," cyn derbyn y goron." Un gelyn yn unig fu'n abl i'w drecbu- Sef gelyn dynotiaeth mor chwanog o'n llethu. Y cyntaf o Fawrth drwy gydol y blwyddi A ddethlir fel heddyw i'w gofio a'i enwi. Boed bychain a mawrion yn awr yn ymdrechu I'w gaumola i gofio a'i wir efelychu. Ni raid i'r Tad sanctaidd drafferthu ei enwi, 'Rym oil yn mawryga adgofion Sant Dewi. MINNEAPOLITAN.

REBELLION IN CHINA. TWO DAYS' BATTLE. A Renter's special telegram received on Tuesday says that the rebellion in China is spreading. The rebels have captured Fangcheng, after a two days' battle. They killed or captured all Mandarins. The Admiralty have abandoned all hope of the safety of H.M.S. Condor. Over 100 lives have been lost.

THE MOST NUTRITIOUS. EPPS'S GRATE FUL-COM FORTI NG. COCOA BREAKFAST AND SUPPER.

ST. DAVID'S DAY IN CALCUTTA. ANNUAL WELSH DINNER. In common with their kinsmen scattered over the globe, the representatives of the Cymry in India met on Saturday evening to do honour to their patron saint. It is lour years ago since those hailing from gallant little Wales first essayed the task of holding a dinner on St. David's Day, and each year the gathering has become more and more successful. The Saturday Club, at which the dinner was held, was charmingly decor- ated with flags and bunting, kindly lent by Messrs. Turner, Morrison and Co., Messrs. Francis, Harrison, Hathaway and Co., and Messrs. Whiteaway, Laidlaw and Co., and reflected credit upon the Committee who had charge of the decoration, Messrs. Evans, Williams, and Pergerim. The patriotic mot- toes "Gwyl Dewi Sant," "Cymru am byth," aril "1 Ddraig Goch a ddyny" and "Y chwyn" were given a prominent position. The table decorations were choice and effec- tive, and though the national emblem, "the leek," though possessing many merits, can hardly lay claims to distinction as an orna- ment, the fine specimens in evidence were certainly very admiringly regarded by those present. Several handsome silver cups were kindly lent by Mr. A. J. Pugh and graced the Chairman's table, and served also to indicate that in the world of sport the Welsh in Calcutta possessed worthy champions. The dinner was strictly confined to those of Welsh nationality, the following being present Mr. T. R. Wynne (Chairman, Mrs. Wynne, the Hon. Mr. Justice Stephens, Mr. and Mrs. E. E. Edwards, Mr. and Mrs. D. E. Evans, Mr. and Mrs. Evan Stephens, Mr. A J. Pugh, Miss Pugh, Miss Halford, Cap- tain Jones Mortimer, Mr. W. L. Thomas, Mr. W. R. James, Mr. A. Williams, Mr. T. R Watson, Mr. Morgan, Mr. Burgess, Mr. R. R. Evans, M. W. Lloyd, Mr. and Mrs. H. W. Thomas, Mr. O. Williams, Mr. W. W. Hill, Mr. A. T. Davies, Mr. Palmer, Mr. D. Williams, Mr. R. Thomas, Mr. F. Davies, Mr. Pergerim, Mr. R. R. Griffiths, Mr. R. Williams, Mr. Langley, Mr. A. E. Goodwin, Mr. H. Jones, Mr. Bowen, Rev. J. Williams, Mr. H. Williams, Mr. T. C. Davies Mr. R. A. C. Pugh, Mr. W. J. Thomas, and Mr. H. D. Evans. The dinner was provided by Mr. Wallace, of the Italian Restaurant. The menu (given below) included several special Welsh dishes. MENU. Ystlys-Ddysgyl. Corbenweig gyda Gronell. Isgell. Cawl Cymreig. Afalau Dacar. Pysgod. Bekti Berwedig. Ochr-Ddysglau. Twrci Rho.st a Mochglun. Morddwyd Eidion. Cigfwyd. Tumon Mollt Rhostiedig a Bwydlys. Pate de foie Gras. Helwdiaeth. Prin Damaid Cymreig. "CENIN." Melusion. Pasteiod Firwythau. Poten Dewi Sant. Bara Menin a Chaws. Melus-rewaiu. Ffrwythau. During the dinner the Town Band, under the conductorship of Mr. Marks, played se- lections of Welsh airs, and, when the loyal and patriotic toasts were given, accompanied the guests in according to them musical hon- ours. Mr. T. R. Wynne (Chairman) in giv- ing the loyal toasts of "The King-Emperor and the Prince of Wales," said there was no need to ask Welshmen to drink them with enthusiasm since the Empire contained no more loyal subjects than the sons of Cam- bria. Mr. T. R. Wynne, in proposing the toast of "Gwyl Dewi Sant," or the pious memory of St. David's, in a witty and humorous speech, dealt with the difficulties which Eng- lishmen find in understanding Welsh insti- tutions and Welsh customs. He frankly ad- mitted that he had been unable to find that the patron Saint of Wales had done anything as practical as the Saints of the sister na- tions, for St. Patrick was said to have killed the snakes of Ireland, St. George destroyed the dragon, and St. Andrew, he believed, had fought with giants. However, St. David to them represented national unity, and the ideal of service which had also at a later date been adopted as the motto of their Prince, and therefore he asked them to drink with cordiality to the pious memory of St. David. "GWLAD EIN GENEDIGAETH." Mr. W. R. James proposed the toa.st "Gwlad ein Genedigaeth" (the Land of our Birth), and delivered it in Welsh, but for the benefit of the English-speaking members of the party gave the gist of his speech in English and said: — Mr. Chairman and fellow-countrymen, al- though this is the third St. David's dinner in Calcutta, and as far as time goes, ought to have been the fourth; but out of respect to the memory of our late beloved Queen- Empress no dinner was held last year. There- fore, this occasion takes our minds back two years from to-night. We all feel sad be- cause some that were with us then are not with us to-night. I refer more especially to the late Sir Griffith Evans. He was an en- thusiastic supporter of St. David's dinner, for he was a Welshman every inch of him. He rose to eminence as a barrister, and to a position of influence in this city as a public man. No wonder, therefore, that his loss is keenly felt in many circles. Mr. H. O. Pugh was also with us then, but has since gone to South Africa. But we are glad to sea a lady with us to-night for the first time, Miss Holford, a niece of Sir Pryce Pryce Gogerddan, and a grand-daughter of the Lord Lieutenant of Cardigan. But it is not befitting on this occasion to dwell too long on things that tend to sadden. I turn, therefore, to matters of unmingled joy. Two things have happened during the past yeaq that had given great pleasure and satisfaction to every Welshman worthy of the name. One was the adoption of the "Red Dragon" on the Royal Arms. The other was the con- ferring on the Heir Apparent the title Prince of Wales. At one time it was whispered that the title was not to be renewed, and that henceforth it would liave to be reckoned among the relics of the past. But if fears arose in anybody's mind from that source they have been shown to have been entirely unfounded. The title is still worn by the Heir Apparent, to remain, as in the past, a link between the throne and the affections of the Welsh people throughout the Empire. One of the Imperial events of last year was the visit of the Prince and Princess of Wales to the Colonies, and it has been observed, that in every place visite'd, and occupying positions of trust and influence, were per- sons bearing names showing that they were representatives of Wales, it gave us great pleasure to read in the papers that the tour had been so successful. Perhaps I ought also to mention that our new Prince is a Chan- cellor of the University College of Wales. If I am permitted to express my feelings, and as I am sure that in doing so I am also expressing yours, I may say that we feel pioud of our new Prince. After reading his speeches, especially the one he delivered at the Mansion House on their return home, the impression which was left on my mind was that the present Prince of Wales is a wise and very observant person. An old Welsh word says that "the grandson takes after his grandfather," and this proverb, if such it be, is likely to be verified in the life of the Heir Apparent. It looks as if the mantle of Albert the Good has fallen on his grandson. In that case the grandson is likely to become a great grandson. We can wish him no better wish than that he should walk in the steps of the late Prince Consort. But if the Welsh have cause to be proud of their Prince, on the other hand, his Royal Highness has cause also to be proud of his Principality. I am sure that loyalty is not more profound in any part of the Empire. No better proof can be given of this than the smallness of the number of crimes committed in the country; and I may add that it often occurs, that most of those that do happen are committed., not by the children of the son, but by foreigners. In what other part of the Empire are his Majesty's Judges so frequently presented with a pair of white gloves i it is not an uncommon thing to hear of Wales spoken of 8> the "land of white gloves. Surely that is something to be proud of. Some of the judges attribute white gloves." Surely that is something to be proud of. Some of the judges attribute the absence of crime to the diligence and faithfulness of the police. But every one that has been born and bronght up among the inhabitants of the Principality knows well enough, that it should be attributed to the Sunday schools more than anything else; and in Wales we have the best Sunday schools in the world. Mr. Burgess, himself a Welshman, the general secretary of the Sunday School Union for India, will bear me out in that statement. Whatever may be the opinion of Wales on political matters, and views differ greatly with time and place there can be no doubt that Wales is heartily- loyal to the throne. In this she contrasts favourably with the branch of the Celtic family that lives on the other side of the Channel. It seems to be the delight of some persons there to denounce England with all her deeds, and to make out that Ireland is suffering from intolerable oppression. From careful observation I have arrived at this generalization: that the worst oppression from which people suffer almost everywhere is self-inflicted, and that where people en- deavour to improve themselves, and follow their vocation in peace and quietness, they soon cease to talk of oppresvsion, at least within British dominions, where person, character, and property are better protected, and liberty more effectually secured than under any other government. Be that as it may, I am doubtful if Wales has been more favoured than Ireland. Take for one thing the matter of education. Higher education was given to Ireland long before there was any talk of extending a similar blessing to Wales. Besides, we have always had a just cause of grievance in the fact that legal business is conducted in the foreign tongue of the Saxons; and other grievances might be mentioned. Nevertheless Wales is thor- oughly loyal. Take again our amusements. The Eisteddfod is still the most popular in- stitution in Wales. Literature, music, poetry, rhetoric, and the fine arts are the things in which the Welsh compete in the Eisteddfod. True we have only one grand National Eisteddfod in the year, but smaller ones are held often in all parts of the country. By this means much talent has been developed that would have otherwise remained for ever hidden. This also ac- counts for the very large proportion of the Welsh artisans contributing so much to the current literature of the country. And its literature, too, is characteristic. It is now rich in journalism, history, lexicography, and especially poetry and works on Divinity. Welsh scenery will compete with the beauty of the Himalayas. Some will' probably ask what thanks is there to the Welsh for that? But were the people created for the country or was the country created for the people? Before I sit down permit me to refer to one other thing. Wales is passing through great changes, and all sudden changes are not unconnected with danger. One of these dangers is the tendency to forget and to relegate to a secondary place invisible and spiritual things and of infinite moment. It is the danger of prosperity and success. Rudyard Kipling, wearing for once the mantle of the Hebrew prophet, has said in effect that this danger threatens all Britons at present, and it is the bounden duty of every Briton who loves his race and the Empire to warn people of it. Believe nie the future heirs of the world will he, not those who conquer by the force of arms, but those who win in the great battle of com- mercial competition; and depend upon it nothing will tell so powerfully in that as trustworthiness and energy and a character that can in every way be depended upon. And come what may it is certain that no factor will be so powerful in creating such a character as the fear of God. Welshmen have been particularly fond of their Bible. Let them keep- it and prize it above rubies. And let me remind you that the Welsh Bible is the best translation of the word of God that has ever been made into any language. The Latin Vulgate is very good and ffaS more widely read than any other for a thousand years. Luther's version, according to com- petent judges, is also a. very happy one; and the merits of the English authorised version are well known to the world, but, however great are the merits of the English version, I venture to say without fear of contradic- tion that anyone acquainted with the ori- ginal languages in addition to his knowledge of English and Welsh will not hesitate to place the Welsh before it. Now I call On you to join me in wishing prosperity to "the land We were born in." The toast was drunk with true Celtic for. vour, and "Hen Wlacl fy Nhadau" sung with enthusiasm. "THE LADIES." Mr. A. E. Goodwin proposed the toast of "Y Bonnedd gesau" (the Ladies), and said: Other toasts may vie with this in import- ance, but I venture to state that none will be drunk to-night wherever Welshmen may congregate with more enthusiasm. The hills and dales, the brooks and rivers, the lakes and mountains of "Cambria" are dear to each one of us, but dearer still are the sisters, mothers, sweethearts,, and wives in the old land. No nation owes so much to the ladies as Wales. I once heard it said—and I trust the repetition will not give offence-that the Welsh were a civilised nation when the Anglo-Saxons were wandering tribes in Ger- man forests. I don't know how far this may be true, or the other assertion that civilisa- tion is only a question of clothes. If be the test we can claim priority, for it IS certainly a fact, at a period in the history of the world, when women in the same rank of life went about bare-headed, the Welsh women wore a head-dress so distinctive, that some travellers in the middle ages on their visits to Wales seemed to have observed nothing else. For the benefit of our visitors this evening let me assure them, that in these days outside photographers' studios they will search in vain for the stove-pipe hats. Some of those present who are prlVI- leged to pay millinery bills may regret the passing away of a hat which would last for fifty years. Unquestionably, however, _a nation may be fairly judged as to the por- tion it is entitled to take tn the ranks of civilisation by the position that nation itself gives to its women. And nowhere do we find them treated with more respect, or given to them more readily the facilities for intellectual advancement as we do in Wales. In recent times the establishment of the Intermediate Education System and placing of its Universities on a sound footing h.as been a most eventful movement in the his- tory of Wales, and in it the girls have every- where been treated as generously as the boys. Do we find, too, in this land that those Welsh ladies who have been brought up in an atmosphere- of freedom where they enjoyed full liberty of thought and action are aii- xious to help those they find less fortunately situated in India. It will be in the minds of all of you how much good work Mrs. Pugh, whose absence we so deeply deplore, owing to a reason already alluded to this evening, has done in the Women's Friendly Society in this city. We may be quite sure that some who are with us this evening, and others in other parts of India, are also help- ing forward the day when the women of India shall be as happy in their conditions of life as the women of Wales. We have so many reasons to be grateful to the lasses of Wales, and are we not indebted to them for some of the sweetest songs which our poets have given to us? No more pleas_ ing melodies are to be found than those which have been inspired by the maidens of "Cambria," and we have not wanted for songstresses who have made not national but world-wide reputations, and their names will spring readily to your minds. But the women of Wales have proved themselves to be not only able to sing, but to nobly dis" charge other duties less pleasing. It is Dot so long ago that the call for nurses canae from the Transvaal, and the Welsh Hospital was amongst the first to be fully staffer- Going further back, we recollect with pride that it was a little maiden bearing the un- mistakably Welsh name of Mary Jones, whose long tramp over the mountains led to the formation of the British and Foreign Bible Society. Whatever our religious views may be, we shall acknowledge that the ser- vice she rendered to the world was a worthy one. Now if I say little of the charms and graces of the Welsh maidens, it is only be- cause I am afraid of rousing your Celtic en- thusiasm to too high a level. In concluding let me say that Welshxne'1 are not unappreciative of the good points of the ladies who were not fortunate to have been born in the land where the music of the running brooks wake them from their slum- bers, and where the birds are always singing to them sweet songs. Many, in fact, have tried to make up in some measure to these less fortunate las-es what they have lost by being born outside Wales, and therefore I ask you to think not only of the maidens and matrons of Wales, but also of the "mem sa- l hibs" and "miss sahibs," who here in India are endeavouring to make the lot of Welsh- men more pleasant and endurable. After the toast had been most cordially received, it was responded to by the Hon. Mr. Justice Stephens, who said:—I find my- self in a somewhat embarassing position in that I have received very definite instruc- tions from the ladies how to reply to the sentiments so eloquently and forcibly ex- pressed by the preceding speaker. On the one hand, I am obliged to concur with all that has been said, and yet I am instructed to say that the good things said about them have n far too generously expressed. I am told I must not return the compliment that the Welshmen are as equally deserving of praise because they are said to be vain enough already. But we cannot speak too highly or make too much of ladies in general, of Welsh ladies in particular, and more especially still, if I may say so, of the Welsh ladies in Calcutta. What, I ask, would Wales be like without its ladies? Like Cal- cutta in the hot season, do you say? But after the ladies have left us it matters little what the weather may be. My predecessor, in speaking of the claim to distinction which the tall hats of oun ladies gave to Wales, omitted to mention a service which another article of dress at one time part of the national costume rendered to the Empire. Was not the last invasion of Great Britain by the French defeated by the red petticoats of the Welsh lassies? The roll of fame on which such names as Boadicea, Queen Eliza- beth, and Queen Victoria, all essentially Welsh, appear is far too long to be given you this evening. I have only one regretful word to say, and that is that there are not more Welsh ladies with us this evening; and I would give expression to the hope that by our next annual gathering this fault may be remedied by each bachelor present send- ing for one of those maidens whose praises you have so enthusiastically greeted. The health of the Chairman was proposed by Mr. W. L. Thomas, who referred to the important position occupied by Mr. Wynne in the railway world, and to the cheery man- ner in which he had presided over, the din- ner. Musical honours were accorded, and Mr. Wynne briefly responded. The Secre- taries were toasted and congratulated on the result of their efforts, and Mr. A. J. Pugh replied on behalf of Mr. H. Davis Evans and himself. The following musical programme, consist- ing mainly of Welsh airs, was afterwards pro- ceeded with, and the items were evidently much appreciated. Musical Programme. Cydgan, "Llwyn Onn," Cor Meibion. Unawd, "Merch Llangollen," Mr. A. E. Good- win. Deuawd. "Y Ddrau Wlad-Garwr," Mri Lloyd a H. D. Evans. Unawd, "Ar hyd y nos" Mr. H. Williams. Unawd, —Mr. W. J. Davies. Unawd, "Taffy," Mr. A. J. Pugh. Unawd, "Yfed," Mr. Lloyd. Cydgan, "Codiatl ytf Hedydd," Cor Mei- bion. Unawd, "Yn Dyffryn Clwyd," Mr. H. Wil- liams. "Hen Wlad fy Nhadau." The singing of the Welsh National An- them "Hen Wlad h- Nhadau" brought an- other St. David's Day to a close.

ST. DAVID CELEBRATIONS AT CAPETOWN. Cape Cambrians had very hearty celebra- tions of St. David's Day. The attendance was representative, and the speeches to the point. The president (Mr. W. Thorne, J.P.) occupied the chair, and Mr. T. R. Price, C.M.G., who was in the vice-ebair, proposed '•The Army, Navy, and Reeervè Forces," and said the time would come when the world would stand and wunder what had been done by our army in South Africa. (Cheers.) As to their own countrymen in the field, they as Welshmen had entire confidence in their ability, and were proud of the services they had rendered. (Cheers.) And he was par- ticularly glad of the opportunity of pro- posing that toast that he might also express their feelings as to the wicked slanders cast upon our troops. (Hear, hear.) He spoke from knowledge when he stated that time and again these soldiers who had been traduced had for weeks in succession gone on half rations, and, if he was rightly informed, half rations consisted of hatt a biscuit, and when these men had gone into the enemy's country and had found that the enemy had neglected their wives and children so that they were in want, what had our troops done I These soldiers, tired and exhausted as they were, and themselves more than half starving, had parted with their food to these women and little children. (Applauses-Major Heaney, who also responded, mentioned that he had the honor oi serving with the Prince of Wales's Light Horse for the last twelve months. He bad been soldiering since 1861, and better men than those forming the Prince of Wales's Light Horse, he could tionestly say he had never seen in the field. (Hear, heur.) ====

MOUNTAIN ASH. COTTAGE HOSPITAL EISTEDDFOD. Although the preparations necessary for such important events as the Cottage Hospi- tal Eisteddfod at Mountain Ash are very great and onerous, they are well in hand, and will be quite in order and ready by Easter Monday. The proceedings for this year again afe expected to be quite up to the high standatd reached by this eisteddfod from its inception eight years ago, and judging from the very large number of en- tries, a great musical success is well assured. Por the chief prize of £100 the following notable choirs will compete, viz., Cwmbwxla United, H hynllleYand Pontlottyn, Tony- pandy, and Dowlais, and the contest is ex- pected to be very close and exciting. There are six choirs entered for the juvenile com- petition, and the following fo rhe second choral, viz., Swansea Ebenezer Glee, Mardy United, and Salem Choir, Llwynypia. The male voice competition has also proved very attractive, for no less than seven choirs have already entered, viz., Tirphill and New Tre- degar, Pengam and Trelyn, Brynamman, Garw Male Voice, Cambria Ton Pentre, Aberdare, and Penrhiwceiber. In the three Pianoforte competitions, no less than 122 entries have been sent in and over 200 entries for the vocal solos, and 76 for recitations. The entries for the bands are very large also, there being 22 brass bands in all sections fnd five fife bands entered. The total num- "*r of entries in all sections amount to 450, which will give the committee an exceed- ingly busy time on that day, and having regard to the large amount of work set out jn the programme and the number of en- ries, it is quite a marvel how they manage to get through the business at all in one day But as in previous years, all the arrange- ments for the day are complete before hand, and under the guidance of the secretary, whose organising power is almost unique, the work will go on from the moment it cornices until it finishes without a hitch. ^he committee are also very fortunate in their selection of adjudicators each year, They have this year succeeded in securing the services of Mr. S. Coleridge Taylor, the tamous composer, who is quite a young Musical genius, and of whose future great aonDg8 Aare„exPected. In looking through the i Iast y0ar's eisteddfod, the re- of PQQn ^a Q^e day sll0W the enormous sum i £ 990 7s. 9d., and the expenditure £ 466 17s. leaving a surplus balance of £ 523 10s.— a very creditable result. The eisteddfod has Bon on to the hospital, for whose nefit it is, and, during the last seven years howf ?an/2A7°° ha9 been placed to the ne*f TU- Ja >S throuSh it. The success for alsa a FWL Procee<lings, financially, is tioV f surf?' being over £ 400 worth of of -fw f°.oinn a(ty' aud the contributions Thi ° A } received from other sources. A his is, truly, a semi-National event.

CADBURY^~Cocoa. ABSOLUTELY PURE, THEREFORE BEST. I I I.. \f I I I i' I I Entirely free irom drogs or any foreign admixture. Most Sustaining, Refreshing and Invigora- ting. CADBURY'S Cocoa is "a perfect food," and is described by theZ/vncetas representing "the stan- dard of highest pcnty." When asking for CCI\C! insist on having CADBURY'S (sold enly in Packets and Tins) as other Connan am sometUMMi Mmitw-PA for the aako of extra profit

DISTRICT NEWS FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENTS. ABERAVON AND PORT TALBOT NOTES AND NEWS. r BY "RAMBLER."] The following gentlemen were nominated for seats on the Margam District Council last week-end, viz.: Eastern Ward, Mr. God- frey Lipscombe (Miss Talbot's agent); West- ern Ward, Mesrs. E. Thomas and D. R. David (retiring members), and Messrs. D. Wellington and R. J. Richards; Central Ward, Messrs. J. Preston and Tom Jones. Mr. David Davies is being nominated to fill the vacancy caused by the death of the late Mr. H. W. Vivian. North Ward, Messrs. Henry Walters (retiring member) and Thos. Thomas. Therewill be contests, therefore, in the Western and Northern Wards. Mr. R. J. Richards is the Conservative agent for Mid-Glamorgan, and is being run, we believe, by the local Ratepayers' Association. The day of election is on the 7th April next. The Town Council have recommended to the Earl of Jersey, who is carrying out the work of the conversion of the North Pier into a public promenade, the acceptance of the tender of Mr. Thomas Scott, contractor, Aberavon, for the sum of J6885. Mr. Scott was the successful contractor for the Esplan- ade now nearing completion. It is hoped that the whole of the work-Esplanade and Pier improvements—will be completed before the summer months are upon us. In connec- tion with the beach development, the Town Council have resolved to lay down a gas and water main to the beach at a total estimated cost in roi-ind Afigtires of £ 750. This is as it should be, as the laying of gas and water mains should act as a great inducement to building operations. The Medical Officer of Health (Dr. Arnallt Jones) sa^d, in his recent report to the Council, that with strict attention to sani- tary matters in the direction of putting down or mending insanitary dwellings and the procuring of an ample supply of pure water, there should be a future before the ancient borough as a health resort, and oue is inclined to believe it. Why not? Port Talbot will be beyond doubt the industrial centre, and Aberavon should-as indeed it is to-day—the residential quarter. As a Local Government Board Inspector remarked the other day, with proper development, Aber- avon possesses a gold mine in her beautiful beach. When the works now in progress are completed, all that remains to be done is to make a new approach to it. I am not quite sure but that the wrong end of the develop- ment has not commenced, the approach should have taken precedence over the con- struction of the Esplanade, for instance. The opposition by a section of the Council to the proposed new road at Pentyla is slowly flickering out, and I should not be surprised to see the matter taken up directly the Esplanade is completed. A ratepayers' association was formed at Aberavon last week, and I am informed that there was a representative gathering present. Mr. Fisher was appointed secretary, and Mr. Lewis Jones, treasurer. Mr. David Davies ("Daily Post"l) is being invited to attend a public meeting at the Public Hall shortly to discourse on the advan- tages of such an association. I hope the association will be a real live and active one. We have had so-called rate- payers' associations established in Aberavon before, but they have all died a natural death-died for the want of a little indepen- dence and outspokenness. There is ample work for a ratepayers' association at Aber- avon, if only to see that Lord Rosebery's efficiency argument be carried out. With efficiency, Aberavon's rates could be saved considerably. Ratepayers' associations are not amenable to the popular vote, and this counts for much, especially in small towns. The Labour candidates of the Margam Council have caught on with the Housing of the Working Classes problem, and have induced that body to adopt part iii. of the Act. The administration of the provisions of this Act seem to them to be a prerogative peculiarly their own. I don't think this is so. The Housing of the Working Classes' Act was passed in the interests of public health, especially in regard to the slum areas of our great towns. It was never '.meant for small municipalities to form themselves into "landlords" simply to meet the natural increase in their popularity. Private enter- prise will do that, but private enterprise will not acquire large tracts of slum areas and re-build decent workmen's cottages. It is to meet cases of this kind that Corpora- tions are authorised to borrow money and acqure such property, and no more laudable object exists for the well-being and housing of the working class. The Coronation festivities are hurrying round, and hundreds of towns up and down the country are already getting ready to celebrate the historic occasion. What are Aberavon and Port Talbot going to do? At present they seem to be sitting tight, wait- ing perhaps for their neighbours to take the lead. In the present Mayor's hands, I think Aberavon will not lag behind in its celebra- tion of Coronation Day. Just at the mo- ment, however, his Worship has, what to him is the important event of his life--I refer, of course, to his approaching wedding. This over, and one may rely that the Mayor will devote his energies to the great day of rejoicing that will awaken the whole British Empire from stem to stem. Palm Sunday was duly observed in the district on Sunday. The weather was fine, but there was a cold snap of March winds in the air. This, however, did not prevent hun- dreds of people visiting the neighbouring cemeteries and burial grounds—some, no doubt, to pay due reverence to departed ones, but the young and juvenile portion of the community regarded the day as a plea- sure outing and gambol. The Chapel of Ease burial-ground was crowded the livelong day. The justices sitting at the Aberavon Police Court on Monday had only two ap- plications for rate excusals, and three drunk and disorderly cases to deal with. At a special sitting of the borough justices (Messrs. J. M. Smith and Llew. Howells), two women of ill-fame, named Evans ,and Rushmore, were each sentenced to a month s imprisonment with hard labour for indecent behaviour in a public place. The Gas Committee have accepted the ten- der of Messrs. Barnes, Chaplin, and Co., of Cardiff, the contractors for the Margam Waterworks recently constructed, for the, masonry work connected with their new gas works for the sum of £ 4,969- The Aberavon School Board held its mon- thly sitting on Tuesday, but there was no business of public interest transacted.— Plans were produced of the proposed new infant schools on the Causeway site, but the consideration of same was deferred. A special meeting of the Highway and General Purposes Committee was held on Wednesday night to consider such important schemes as the provision of an infectious diseases hospital for the Borough, the hous- ing question, and the carrying out of a sewerage scheme for the Pontdu and Cor- lanna District. I hope to deal with these matters in the next issue of "The Cam- brian." With the near approach of the completion of the new steel and celluloid works, the demand for dwelling-houses in the district ,t is acute, and landlords are asking in some cases exhorbitant rents. In fact, a decent artisan's house is 10s. per week in most jases. This kind of thing helps in the agita- tion for municipal dwellings for the people.

<2 THE BEST Spring Inq # MEDICINE. m At this season of the year the system undergoes a m change; the blood should be purified, nature calls for » ■ it. If a good, purifying and strengthening medicine is ■ I taken now, it will prevent much unnecessary suffering B I in the future, as impurities left in the bJood during I I the spring lead to many ailments afterwards. J NOW SS THE Tir^E —% When all DISEASES OF THE STOMACH, LIVER, V j KIDNEYS and BLOOD are most easily cured while the blood is undergoing the spring change. The best medicine to take for this purpose is VENO'S SEAWEED TONIC. Now is the time when it will produce its most brilliant effect, not only in purifying the blood but in curing such ailments as indigestion, wind on the stomach, biliousness, kidney trouble, weak and painful back, headache, weakness and constipation. It regulates, strengthens and purifies. IN EVIDENCE THOMAS FENWICK, 5 Queen Street, Grange Villa, Durham, writes:—" I suffered so badly with impure blood, blotches and eczema, that I thought I should never get cured. I tried a lot of doctors but none did me any good. I got VENO'S SEAWEED TONIC at Gateshead and began taking it, and I am glad to say that, so far, I am perfectly cured and my skin is now in its natural condition. You can advertise this as you wish, as I am sure there would be no one suffering with blood and skin diseases if they knew of your remedy. (-) -iPee¡fli1ni I -2 id N 2/90 All Chemists and Medicine Vendors Everywhere. q

CREDITORS' MEETING. The first meeting of creditors in re David Brown, steelworks labourer, of 71, Mansel- • terrace. Port Talbot, but lately carrying on business at the Bear Hotel, Aberavon, was held at the, offices of the Official Receiver, Swansea, on Friday. No creditors were pre- sent, and the Official Receiver remains trus- tee. The gross liabilities were put down at £ 171 18s. 4d., of which the whole are ex- 1 pected to rank., and assets JB15 18s., leaving a deficiency of E156 Os. 4d., the result, bank- j rupt stated, of "bad trade, high rent, and j no capital." »

NEATH AND DISTRICT i [BY OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.] 'I COUNTY POLICE COURT. Friday. [Before Mr. Edward Davies, Mr. Walter Rice Evans, and Mr. David Davies.] Furious Driving.—William Howell, a local horsp and cattle dealer, and Thomas Howell (his cousin) were summoned for furious driving en .New-road, Skewen. P.C. Stone said the defendants were going at the rate of 14 to 16 miles an hour, and were evidently racing. Thomas Howell said he waa only trotting, and William Howell declared that he did not allow any horse to pass him on the road. The Rev. J. E. Jones corroborated. Mr. W. H. David, who represented the defendants, argued that they were not liable, as their horses had been frightened by a passing train. Mr. Edward Davies (chairman) said fines of £ 10 ought to be imposed in such cases, as the offence was a most serious one. Each would have to pay 20s. and costs. A Dog Case.-Rees Williams, collier, Pont- Neath-Vaughan, was summoned for keeping two dogs without licenses. Defendant produced a license dated January 6th, farooe dog, but it was not clear that there was a license for the other. The license purported to have been issued on the morning (10.30) of the 13th inat., whilst P.C. Thomas visited the house on the afternoon of the day named. The Magistrates'Clerk (Mr. L. J. Kempthorne) and the Bench pointed out that it was evident that alterations had been made on the face of the license, and that the Glyn-Neath Postmaster's stamp mark showed 5.15 p.m. Defendant said he did not take out the second license, but he left the money for a license with his landlady's daughter. The Magistrates' Clerk suggested that the defendant should withdraw his plea of not guilty, but he refused to take this course, and asked for an adjournment for a fort- mght.—An adjournment was granted. LITTLE MINNIE." This was the title of a service of song, which was performed on Thursday night at the Wesleyan Schoolroom, by the Sunday School choir, very effectively assisted by the Gnoll-road, Congregational Church orchestra. The conductor was Mr. W. H. Martyn, whose zeal and ability in imparting instruction in music have brought him into much favourable notice. The accompani- ments were efficiently furnished by Miss Paul, and Mr. Talbot gave the connective readings in a I most pleasing manner. The large audience thoroughly enjoyed the performance. The following rendered solos, or assisted in duets, trios, and quartettes :-Miss Scrivens, Miss K. Jones, Miss Edith Williams, Miss M. Reed, Miss E. Reed, Miss Baker, Miss Phillips, Miss Pul- man, Miss M. Davies, Mr. S Edwards, Mr. Harry Hunkin, Mr. R. Phillips, and Mr. F. Chapple. BUTCHERS' BANQUET. I The first annual dinner in connection with the Neath, Aberavon and District Butchers and Cattle Dealers' Association was held at the Town I Hall, Neath, on Thursday evening. Mr. W. H. Hunkin, the president, who was in the chair, was supported by the following Messrs. Beth Hay- cock (vice-president), J. E. Jones (hon. treasurer), R. Allin (president of the Neath Grocers' Asso- ciation), Geo. Steer, Wm. Howell, T. Young (Eastmans, Ltd.), George Cornwall (English and Colonial), J. D. Trick, A. J.lrick, W. B. Davis (market inspector), J- \yTp "8i M. Clarke, E. A. Clarke, F. Wood, J. H- laylo^ T. Hunkin, S. Davies, J. Baines, G. 1. Hutching, A. Joues, and Councillors Mog Hopkins (Swansea), George Clarke (Aberavon), and others. Host W. T. Jones (Crown Hotel) provided on excellent repast. After the customary toasts of The King and the "Army and Navy," Mr T. Hunkin gave "The Town and Trade of Neath," remarking there was still plenty of room there for honest and industrious young men. Mr Richard Allen responded, wishing the Association every success. Such movements properly carried out could not falj. be "utually beneficial. Messrs J. Gardner and Wm. Howell also replied.—Councillor George Clarke submitted "The Association," and in his speech advised it to keep in touch with the eoeratioi], which wielded great power for the good of the trade. He wished the Association long life and prosperity.—Mr W. T. Jones, in responding, said the Association had made good Progress, and Neath and district butchers owed thanks to Messrs Hunkin for their initiative.- The Chairman said the Association would rever- ence law and authority. Touching on the tuber- culosis question, he claimed that butchers were entitled to compensation, whereas they now had frequently to put up with confiscation.-Coun- cillor Morgan Hopkin followed, and Messrs Kingdom and W. B. Davies (market inspectors) also spoke. Songs were rendered during the proceedings by Messrs W.T. Jones, G. Hutchins, J. Gardner, J. E. Griffiths, L. Griffiths, L. Arnold, and A. Shufflebotham. Councillor Morgan Hopkin offered to come over to Neath to deliver a lecture on Neath Abbey and other antiquities in the neighbourhood. He was thanked by the President, whilst at the same time he was told that his offer had unfortunately come late. In all probability it would have been gladly accepted if it had been made before the fine work, A History of Neath Abbey," by Dr Birch, had been published. That work adequately covered the whole subject, and as such was highly esteemed. NEATH BUTCHER'S FAILURE. On Friday morning at the offices of the Official Receiver, Swansea, the first meeting was held of the creditors in re Mrs. Thomas, 10, The Parade, Neath, butcher, whose gross liabilities were put down at £ 243 17s. 5d., of which J6228 56 3d. are expected to rank, and assets £ 32 2s. 5d., leaving a deficiency of JB196 2s. lOd. "Depression in trade and a bad position" were the causes assigned for the failure. No creditors were present at the meeting, and the Official Receiver re- mains the trustee. Mr. H. Rees, Deputy Official Receiver, conducted1 the examina- tion. NEATH BOARD OF GUARDIANS. A meeting of this Board was held on Tues- day, Mr Hopkin Jones (Chairman) presiding. The following were also present: Messrs. Ll. Howell and E. E. Bevan (vice-Chairmen), D. A. David, Rees Jenkins, J. R. Moore, E. Law, G. 0. Jenkins, A. S. Gardner, Wm. Howell, H. P. Charles, T. Williams, M. G. Roberts, C. V. Pegge, Edw. Davies, Richard! Davies, Dr. J. W. Thomas, O. Jenkins, W. H. David, T. G. Lloyd, D. E. Hopkins, Daniel Evans, David Thomas, Rev. Harry Hughes, Rev. James Edwards, Dr. Jones, Mr. S. B. Davies, and Mr. Walter Rice Evans. A letter was read from Mr. R. A. Williams, the newly-appointed collector of rates, ask- ing that he be permitted to employ any spare time for the purpose of carrying on the work of Union and District Council Accountant. On the motion of Mr. Wm. Howell, the application was adjourned until the next meeting of the Board. The Chairman, in moving the adoption 'of the Calls Committee's report, observed that the call of J611,160 for the ensuing half-year was the heaviest in his recollection. There was an increase of JB675 in the expenses at- tached to pauper lunatics; J350 was allotted in the estimates as Neath's share of the superannuation of Mr. James Allen, the re- tiring rate-collector. There was an increase of JB244 on loans and interest, while the County rates had gone up from £ 7,840 to £9,800. It appeared that Neath contributed; £10,000 per annum to the County. The Clerk: You get £ 4,000 of it back. The Chairman: So we did last year, but we cannot shut our eyes to the fact that the amount to the County is increasing. Mr. Edward Davies seconded the adoption of the report. Mr. Tom Williams, Glyn Neath, called at- tention to what he termed the leakages in out-door relief, pointing out that there were cases in which weekly amounts of £4 10s. and S3 58. went, and still no allowances from the Guardians were taken. Those were not cases of want. Such homes could not pro- perly be termed destitute. He hoped that each Guardian would make investigation in his own district, and so prevent waste. They would then be able to be more generous to really deserving cases. The Rev. Henry Hugh es agreed with the remarks of the Chairman, and remarked that as they paid the rate to the County, they should have some voice in the matter. Mr. H. P. Charles asked who had fixed £ 50 as Neath's share of the superannuation of Mr. James Allen. The overseers had not done so. The sum named might be too muobi or too little. The Chairman said it was merely an eatiV mate, and was included in anticipation. The Contracts Committee reported in r&i gard to the tenders for supplies accepted. It was reported that Messrs. Cory Broa., Ltd., had given notice of appeal against thel assessment of the Glyncastell Colliery in the Parish of Resolven. It was resolved, on the motion of Mr. H, P. Charles, seconded by Mr. Wm. HoweU, to give the Assessment Committee leave to defend. NEATH SCHOOL BOARD. A meeting of the above-named Board wtfa held on Tuesday, Mr. H. P. Charles (Chair- man) presiding. The following were also present: Mr. Wm. Cribb (vice-Chairman), Rev. James Edwards, Rev. Father Hook, Mr. Harry Williams, Mr. T. Church, and Mr. WW B. Trick. It was resolved to accept the tender of Messrs. Larbrean, of Birmingham, of £1,230 for asphelting the school yards, subject to certain conditions being agreed to. Failing the acceptance of these conditions, the next lowest tender would be accepted. The Chairman said that steps should be taken to obtain permisson to use the money of the Board derived from the sale of the old British Schools. The sum of JB1,680 was lying at the bank. The suggestion that they should borrow the money required and incur all the costs of borrowing was without rea- son. An application was received from Mr. Phillip Thomas, headmaster of Gnoll Schools, for an increased salary. Mr. Thomas stated he had seen 19 years of service in the town, six o8f those years having been in the service of the Board. Mr. T. Church moved that the salary be increased to JB220. This was seconded by Father Hook. The Chairman spoke in favour of the mo- tion, and it was carried unanimously. The resignations of Miss Prothero and of Mr. W. R. Howell, assistant teachers, Were received, bqth having obtained important promotions. A deputation from the Mid-Glamorgan. Assistant Masters' Association attended to urge upon the Board the desirability of im- proving the pecuniary status of assistant masters. Mr. Evans and Mr. Williams stated their cases efficiently, and after some questions had been put by the Chairman and others, the deputation withdrew. The Clerk was directed to invite a confer- ence of the school boards in the district to discuss the matters brought to notice by the deputation. Mr. Edmund Law Redivivus! Mr. Edmund Law has so far recovered from his recent severe illness that he has returned to business and to his duties aa Public representative. On Tuesday he, was Present at both the Board of Guardians' Meeting and the meeting of the Neath School Board. FOUND DEAD ON A MOUNTAIN.; On Sunday evening the dead body of a man na." ed David Williams, aged 37, a shoemaker, wh- se home was at Bethania-street, Glyn-Neath, was found on Penmachmi Mountain in the Vale of Neath. The deceased called at his sister's hotise on Sunday afternoon, and after staying thne for some time, he left, saying that he would go for a walk. His dead body was found two hours later. He is supposed to have had an epileptic seizure, as he was subject to such fits.