The Cardiff Times

A Summer Nightmare. By THEODORA WILSON WJLSON (Author of Ursula Raven," &c. 1e?W stiflingly hot the room was, as Made- d«ifs fingers worked swiftly amongst the J^te laces. Slln had come round to the window, but jj '•lelene had no time to draw down the blind. Was flushed, her wavy hair curled her forehead. But the garden party l that very afternoon, and if Maisie was to bcr blouse, there was not a moment to "What shall I be at fifty, Should nature keep me alive. If I find the world so bitter When I am but twenty-five ?" she flung up her head, and gave a °thered laugh—trying to fling the doleful from her .had been a long seven years of grinding S1nce she received the telegram announcing n r Mother's death—recalling her from happy rttiany and all its entrancements—to the y6 of i»er father's household. y With the characteristic enthusiasm of a v self-sacrificing temperament, Madelene herself to the task, proud of the Science reposed to her. fatk COmplete had been the sacrifice that her absorbed in his own loss—had never considered it. The brothers and fcn took Madelene's work and Madelene's as amongst the established order of t*Ut somehow to-day an irrepressible depres- tt had swept over the worker. What did to hin8 matter ? {ja 'e> fresh from her first term at Chelten- js^^an advantage she owed entirely to her determined efforts on her behalf—had juddered openly that Madelene should care so „ e for inteliectual pursuits—even for music. V And you are just as bad about going out U let yourself get quite stale, Madelene, if &te Dot careful she had said, lot Madelene had in a half-hearted way landed to go to this garden party, and her frock was ready for the ironing board. had come in yesterday, quite wild jj. excitement, to eay that Mrs Moorfield. had *lted him to play in the Tennis Tournament man had failed. just having unpacked Ted's school trunk. bjJj knowing the state of his flannels, the berr;-s had begun to twitter early that morning she had finished his new shirt. What did anything matter 7" she asked self once more. ^Oddenly the door burst open. 111 Oh, Madelene cried Maisie. Such • I have drawn the crack man, so Sophie & °rfield tells me. The Honourable George ^i^sthing or Other—an aged animal, she says J™1t awfully good We shall owe something solutely weird How's the blonse" chl a^el°ne rose from her low seat. There, b d, the last stitch," and she tossed the ùse to her sister. ^laisie looked at it admiringly. Cqi Madelene Dury, thou art an angel '■ I It have done it—not for a B.A. degree lk's.a blessing there is one domestic spirit i* e fanJily. th ^ew to dress, and then in dashed b°ys- keen for an afternoon's picnic to ^5!ch they had been invited. And Madelene 11*7 to bend her mind to considering the provi- basket they so eagerly demanded. 1. -Don't make Dad make you late P' cried lc>fvi5'e' as Madelene stood at the little gate down tbe white road. Two girl friends called for Maisie and Ted, and in another Anient the carriage was whirling away. 'Of course, I shan't go." said Madelene to herself, as she wandered indoors. can't think what is the matter with me ih, c father was late for lunch as usual, and J^solutely Madelene went into the drawing- Jr°a»- How hot it was The very flowers in J*"5 vases were fading. What could bo the fatter with her ? She could not be such a y as to be disappointed over a silly garden- Suddenly his eye fell on a litter of Her brow clouded. I wish Maisie would Pull nay songs about she thought. She sat down in. the window seat and turned f5Q songs over on her knee. Songs she bad *«&rnt years ago in Germany. Dear old l~chu- — Peter Cornelius — Lassen—Beethoven's \i!:Ier now pallid cheeks flushed again. What those were in the Pensionnat until that came. Maisie was not alone in her (w^Setion with Honourable^. The •• Big Hon- Q^ble" they bad all of them nicknamed j £ >e Munro. He was taking music up as a J,. 6ssion, because he was as hard up as any Atkins he used to boast. *N*y Christmas he had sent her a card. 0^5 friendliest remembrance, written in fHan. She had seven of them upstairs. ^ave of German Heimveh vePj°^ feu", The house was empty, except for th servant, Morton. There was no one to om she would betray herself. she sat down at the piano, and sang on kj/1 on, until an uncontrollable burden of seli- j|j y overwhelmed her, as she thought of the b e sb.e had meant to live and the Hie thn.t had n forcedu pon her. •h i ^e'ene J*1 was hcr father's voice, and ? leapt up all attention. ^rushing the straying tear-drop away, she cheerfully, Dad Why you are marvellously early." „ o'clock—yes. All alone ?" tj. *es. The boys have gone to a picnic—and others to the tournament." Tournament ?" asked the doctor puzzled. Jr*1, the Moorfields I had forgotten." ne went with him into the other room, and gently he remarked, I suppose you want > So to this affair? I can drive you over if Ieally wish it." te o. thanks. Dad. Maisie and Ted will Present the family quite respectably." (.. Then you really don't care about it f" 1(* her father with a sigh of relief. I must these occasions always strike me as inex- etshtHbly stupid. We should never be missed €Jhe crowd." ^No-l really don't care — it does not 8¡) Se was PourinSf out his coffee, and as she <4j e. a flood of sunshine streamed in and ht her face, just as the doctor looked up. premelY absent-minded regarding his ith Iy as a rule, he was nevertheless struck something in his daughter's appearance. »i Madelene, my dear, you are not vexed °^t anything—or ill ?" Oh. no and she laughed, as she turned „ay her head. 4h, My dear, loot at me. He actually rose ^.turned her to the light. l^h ^be last siunmoning of her courage, she Then to her overwhelming dismay burst from him, and broke into a passion f^s. •V v.e ^oc^°r stood over her helplessly, until U,e calmed down with a short hysterical .gb. It is nothing. Dad—nothing whatever 1 "only just rather tired." •« » 'ust rather tired the doctor repeated. (ftil?Ped to death he said with a surprising U ^tion. Nerves." He had never dreamt Madelene had nerves. Year in, year out, 1/^ had plodded along happily enough, so far knew. had ccrtaialy not been away from home l tie considei-ed how long, shame over. i Jlhed the mats. Had he, in brooding over .o!1 irreparable loss, exacted too great a ficc from this enger young heart ?" was in no sense a brilliant man. took time to plant ia his mind, but once <, ted tliey grew. ,Well, run alf>ng now, a?sd dress yourself he said cheerfullv. Oh. no." she ejcclaim«d —" I am so tir-nJ— besides I have nothing to wear," and kbe 't\\led cheerfully oiice znoce- *ho doctor frowned. had something, I presume Oh Tfsll, and so have I in a way. Only it iroaed, and I door opened, and the servant came in. Morion," said the doctor, comfortably, ^"hat is this about Miss Madelene's frock? y°u can manage it?" c, 1, Da.d expostulated Madelene. .Manage, air and she eyed her yocng reproachfully. oniy she'd said But there, sir, there's .o look after her. Up to two o'clock this over Master Ted's things—no, you look liko that, JMis3 Madden*, I've my say for a long time ie eatxHziez.ee ■ftric'x.&ji doctor looked at his ,te? at xioujily. !te Ou dov/n until iS is tiino to dress," .,co;nrtiauBd«d. T*^» can't ]*i*fdW.y go. Don't you under- • K'-odes, I lent Maisie nry only decent that settle* it A story bock on my »4Jt!!l do ma far mora'good than a thousand !•' M if the controversy were at an Ryt the doctor stayed, and had a piece of « tongue, which sent him thoughtfully h room, lookrng gravely subdued. £ er.t straight to a certain drawer, and o*^r some trcasuvoi of bygone happi- faithful daughter fend a faithless he muttered. Poor Mary, why he said to himself, as he crept like a thing across the jML^snge to his daughter's *«o" jjTy'ne in," she said» *« •jj* a little package down beside her. child. I have ordered the dog-cart prompt." Unfolded the white gloves, then throwing 9 upwards, she caught him round the u j^od kissed him. an awful old stupid Please don't Ute> dad. A fit of the blues at my time of f l ^tnte preposterous "lhe tournament was in full swing when r *nd fiaxiyhtcrilrtorc u-p. Everybody was there, and Madelene, catching the pervading spirit of excitement, looked round anxiously for Maisie.. Ted she spied at once, and saw with amuse- ment that he was enjoying himself mightily with a certain married lady noted for her boisterous voice, her gay clothing, and her quiet, adoring husband. Ah, Madelene, child cried Mrs Moor- field, entirely unconscious that she had not yet greeted her, I know you are always so good- natured, and you are not absorbed in tennis like my girls. Can you take Mrs Glenfinnan in to tea, and then introduce her to the glass houses and Morris ? You know your way." Mrs Moorfield felt that she had a right to the help of the Dury girls. They were her emer- gency employees, to whom she brought many a piece of kindly pleasure. So Madelene met her fate with a smile, and found herself introduced to an elderly lady, who seized her arm, and became freely loqua- ciou3. „ I am glad, my dear, she said as she finished her second well-creamed cup of tea, that you are not devoted to this intemperate sport! Such ridiculous nonsense. Pretty girls racing themselves into apoplexy or hysteria—a sight of wonder for the whole country f* Still, they enjoy it," said Madelene. Yet, what agony columns we should have in the papers if any despot insisted on youne people chasing backwards and forwards for four solid hours on a blazing afternoon Perhaps," said Madelene, rather absently. She could hear the laughter outside, and almost certainly her sister's voice. Evidently the party were making for the verandah. And now, your arm again, my dear," ex. claimed Mrs Glenfinnan, and she rose with difficulty. Oh—not out through that window. Straightforward doors for me." They turned away. and passed into the hall, just as the gay tennis throng swarmed in through the window. Madelene struggled under a sense of baulk, or suffocation. But years of self-suppression came to her aid. Mrs Glenfmnan's consultations with Morris, the gardener, seemed quite interminable, and it was not until late in the afternoon that at last she remarked, Now, my dear, perhaps we had better return to the others Madelene knew it must be very late now. On this day, as on many another, she had just managed to be out of it. She had been a fool to come. Her head was splitting with the awful beat of the hot house. She panted tor her own little bedroom with the blind drawn down. As they walked down the steep pathway to. wards the lower grounds the band stopped, and they could hear gay murmuring and laughter, and presently the sound of subdued Cl*^That means, I suppose, that the absurd business is over. Prizes indeed and Mrs Glenfinnan gave a twittering Jaagh- There was a thickening of the brilliant throng immediately below them, and Madelene was content to stand still- In the centre of the group stood Maisie and her taU partner. Xhey were smiling and bowing thanks. Why if that isn't George r" cried Mrs Glenfinnan, in mock wrath. "Thirty. if he's a day and dashing round in the sun all the afternoon for a cigar case or some such "ubbish As ridiimlous a piece of absurdity as his trying to make his living out of music And who is the girl? Pretty enough-except for that monstrous colour—burnt to a fire brick That's my sister Maisie. I am glad she has won." "George is booked, however, said Mrs Glenfinnan, brusquely. I beg your pardon?' I merely remarked that George is booked- he told me eo himself. Come into his money at last, and nothing to wait for, thank goodness When a man Jike George is booked, he ought to wear a placard to warn off the girls-poor idiots Madelene's loyal soul was roused. If yon n.re inferring, Mrs Glenfinnan, that my sister required that her partner should be placarded—you are profoundly mistaken Highty, tightv, child What do I know about your sister? I onlyremarked that George was booked. As for you, my dear, if ever I can do anything for you in roses or chrysanthe- mums, let me know." The wind was blowing gently cool at last. Carriages were rolling up and rolling away, and having at last safely deposited her old lady, Madelene was enddenly seized upon by tbe exultant Mai?ie. Ah, you are here I Where in the world have you been ? Isn't it rare and she showed a lace pin embedded in cotton wool. He was absolutely glorious. I never played with such a gem. Come, I want to introduce you. He is such a dear." Madelene. my dear, if you have had enough —we might as well go," came in her father's, quiet tones. I have had quite enough." said Madelene gathering up her frock from the dampening grass. It was a relief to drive once more quietly through the cool air, and her father respected her mood. On reaching home she tried to pull herself together. The boys were home, panting to re- count their adventures, and Baby Geoff had already been jierguaded to bed, and was sitting up wen-washed and brushed eager for the sisterly good-night You are as sweet as a white angel, he exclaimed, admiringly, as she entered the little dressing-room. «« Rather a tired angel, Geoff, and she sat down on the edge of the bec1." Come-there is heaps of room—lie down, he invited, and screwed himself up against the W Madelene flung herself down beside her little brother, and shut her eyes. Geoff raised himself on his elbow, and looked at her thoughtfully Then he began to finger her wavy, grey-tipped hair with his soft fingers. Madelene lay qui te still. This child was her baby boy. Perhaps after all it had been worth WThe room was very still- Only a eprayofivy tapped restlessly gainst the half-opened la"Madelene -»" came in a subdued voice from th" Hushf" called Geoffrey. He crept out of bed, and went. out on the landing. Hush! she's asleep. I made her." he said with a proud ,mportance. hU Hfctl ?0n, and looked at his sleeping daughter irresolutely. His brow was puckered with worry, and he laid his fiD|hen°ablon^oSng sounded, She started up, as at the call of duty, and looked round V Forty winks How stupid Tell the others to begin supper. I will be down in a m-Tatm so sorry," began her father, «• and between us, I fear we have been inconsiderate, ba"T*rMlr it to me quickly," and she laughed, and she smoothed her raffled hair before Geof. '"■?it h only tblt' Maisie's parted came along with her, and asked so i>ointedly after you— says he met you in Germany, and hmted so broadly that he would like to see you again. that-well, without being positively discour- teous., i could not avoid asking him in to supper—" Ach exclaimed Madelene- You do not mind very much I hope, he said anxiuosly. "T can make some excuse to clear him out early—if you could Just manage supper—" Madelene smiled, wondmng at her father's surprising solicitude. Of course, you could not do anything else, Dad. I will manage somehow. I will be down directly. George Munro certainly seemed bigger than she had remembered, and his firm hand-shake and glad smile sent a thrill of energy through her wearied nerves- But at supper all the talk was about the tournament. Maisie and Ted monopolised the visitor completely, and Madelene was not sorry. And the stupid thing was that you never even saw him play," said MaiNie. I cannot conceive where you disappeared. 44 Oh, I know," said Ted. She went off with a beast of an old lady up amongst the greenhouses—as if it were not eighty in the shade outside." You don't mean to say, Madelene, that you BDent the afternoon in Mrs Moorfield's green- houses ?" exclaimed the doctor vexedly. Oh. it was all right. Mrs Moorfield asked me to go. You see, 1 waant playing." My daughter had a very bad headache when she started," explained the doctor, and I hoped the afternoon would be a change for her." I am afraid I ought to take up the apolo- gies for my most inconsiderate cousin I know her of old when she gets amongst the plants." "But why should anyone apologise ?" eX. claimed Madelene, with a touch of temper in her tone. I went of my own free wilL Some one had to do it." But why you ?" said Maisie, wrathfully. "If I had known, I would have come and dragged you from her clutches. Sorry. Partner, to appear impolite to a distinguished relative of yours," and she laughed across at the visitor. Ah well," said the doctor. It can't be helped now, I suppose. Perhaps. Munro, you will have a smoke with me," and he rose from the table. I should like a smoke of all things, Doctor Dury," replied the young man. It was a very lone smoke. "They might have had a dozen by now I' snorted Maisie impatiently to Ted. It's so' like Dad. I thought we were going to have some jolly music." The study door opened, and the doctor and the visitor appeared at last. Where is, Madelene?" asked her father. 44 Kissing the boys good-night or some- thing said Maisie. Oh, Mr Munro, you will play us something now you have deigned to appear." He sat down to the piano with a good. natured Inugh, but there was an odd, excited look on the man's face had Maisie care I to notice it. Ha w&s presently conscious tiiat Madelene had come in, and that Ted had disappeared. For some time Maisie monopolised his selec- tions, but presently be turned on his stool. 44 Do you remember this, Miss Dury V and he played a delicate Chopin Etude. 44 Yes, I remember," said Madelene. But she stayed away by the window. And this ?" he asked again. He struck the opening phrases of Lohengrin's Abschied. Yes, I remember." she said. 44 And this 1" And now it was a Brahms love song. n I remember them all," she said. 44 Maisie, mv dear," said her father abruptly, 441 should be greatly obliged for your help in the study for a few minutes. Maisie rose, unwilling enough, and left the room. Quickly George Munro walked to the window. 44 And do you remember the name of that little love song of Beethoven's that Herr Preitag never could get me to sing to his saitis- faction ?" 44 I—that is"—stumbled Madelene. 44 It was a very dear little song," said the man earnestly. I hope it has remained with you. May I open this window? How sweet the air is. 44 Certainly, open it if you like." Of May I ten you the name of the little song, in case you have forgotten it 1" She would not reply. Instead she put out her hand, and twisted a rose from its branch* and began pulling it to pieces. 44 Don't do that," he said, taking it from her. She rose from her seat as though she would leave the room. 44 Ieh liebe Dich! (IloTe thee) was the name of the little song, was it not?" he asked, standing close up to her. Really, Mr Munro, it is all so long ago. I have forgotten my German," she said, trying to speak coolly. 44 To-night, it seems to me but yesterday," he said. 44 Mrs Glenfinnan told me this afternoon that you are going to be married, Mr Munro. that your fortune had come in. May I con- gratulate you?" He turned a little white. Mrs Glenfinnan told you I was going to be married ? He spoke so sternly that she wavered. She told me that—that you were booked.' Those were her very words. You had told her so yourself." His colour came back with a bound. 44 And so I am he said, with sudden passion. 44 So I have been for nearly seven years. That is why I ask you to recall your German sufBcentiy to tell me the name of that little song. Please, Madelene J" Oh, I really can't." There was a pleading tone in her voice which completely satisfied him. Never mind then fa he said with a sort of triumph, &8 be grILSped her band.

PEMBROKE DOCK APPRENTICES Presentation of Prizes: Address by Admiral Denison. The prizes awarded by the Admiralty to ap- prentices successful at the examination in June last at Pembroke Dockyard were presented by Bear-Admiral Denison. Superintendent of the Dockyard, at the Dockyard Apprentices' Upper School on Friday morning. In addition to Admiral Denison there were present Mr A. M. Worthington, Acting Chief Instructor Mr J B. Scannell, assistant expense accounts officer; Mr F. H. Bolton, assistant cashier Mr H. J. W. Adamson, assistant naval store officer, Mr Masson, headmaster Mr McKenzie. assistant master of the Upper School Mr T, W. Carroll, and Mr T. H. Edwards. master of the Lower School and about 80 apprentices. Admiral Denison referred to the school report, which showed that, although no local candi- date had secured either a cadetship at Keyham CUege, or a special Admiralty prize, the school had maintained a high standard of efficiency. That, continued Admiral Denison, was ex- tremely gratifying to him as superintendent, and must be regarded as satisfactory by all the officers of the Dockyard. During his stay at Pembroke Dockyard he had added largely to his store of knowledge, in the acquisition of which he impressed upon them there was no finality He presented the prizes as follows :-Upper School. J. S. Fielder, ship- wright, and T. W. Johnstone, ship fitter, both of four years' service J. E. Mathi«s and H. E. Evans, shipwrights, three years' service T. Berminyham, E. J. Williams, T. J. Nicholas, and P. Hall, shipwriglits, two service W. J. A. Davies, H. 8. Oliver. T. C. Morgan, and W. E. Blackmore, shipwrights and T. J. Robbins, electrical fitter, all of one year's ser- vice. Lower School:—E. T. Bowen, G. H. Lewis, and A. E. Phillips, shipwrights, three years' service F. M. Beddoe, shipwright, two years' service M. A Evans, electrical fitter; T. S. Rowe and W, C. John, storehouse boys and W. Baker, yard boy. all of one year's service and W. G. James, boy writer, three years' service.

OPERATIONS ON PAUPERS. Dr. Alfred Sheen Writes to Cardiff Board At a meeting of the Cardiff Guardians a week ago a long discussion took place anent the carrying out of operations by the medieal officers at the Workhouse, and in response to the request then made the register of operations was submitted at Saturday's meeting of the Board, the Rev. J. R. Buckley presiding. This showed that from May 5th, 19C5, to September 22nd last 49 operations were performed, all by Dr. Timms, the assistant medical officer, in one case with the assistance of Dr. Maclean. An urgent operation had since been performed by Dr. Edwards, successor to Dr. A. B. Timms. A letter on the subject was read from Dr. A. Sheen as foHows;-u I very much regret the discussion at the board last Saturday on the question of operative surgerjlat tbe Union Hospital. In this matter everything has been done in the interest of the patient operated upon, and nothing has been done without my entire approval and consent, and after con- sultation in each case. Dr. Lee performed operations under these conditions. When Dr. Timms succeeded him in the office of assistant medical officer, be expressed his wish to do as much operative surgery as possible. This I consented to, with safeguards above referred to, nnd. I am pleased to say he has done it en. tirely to my satisfaction and w.th great benefit to the patients." As it was decided last week that the whole question should go to the Workhouse Visiting Committee, it was agreed that the register and Dr. Sheen's letter should be submitted to them also. Mr Page said he thought it was very satisfac- tory from Dr. Sheen's point of view. Mr J. J. Ames observed that it showed the confidence Dr. Sheen had got in the assistant- medical officers whom the board appointed. The Chairman: Dr. Sheen is a very old officer of the board, and should be treated with every possible consideration. The sabject then dropped.

SWANSEA VALLEY RESOURCES. Defence of the G.W.R. Company. At a meeting of the Swansea Chamber of Commerce on Friday evening the President [Mr R. L. Sails) gave an explanation why the Council of the Chamber could not support the suggestion of the Corporation General Pur- poses Committee that the Midland Railway Company should be approached to develop the mineral resources of Swansea Valley at this juncture. The Council did not consider it opportune to take action such as was proposed, and they did not wish that the Great Western Railway should misunderstand them. Mr Martin, it appeared, was under the impression that the Great Western Company had altered some of the plans, and altered them unfairly so far as Swansea, was concerned. Mr Sails pro- ceeded to explain the whole question, and said the Great Western did not get their Bill, and the Neath and Pontardawe got theirs, and the agreement that the Great Western had made with Port Talbot came to an end as far as their railway was concerned. They did not think it wise as business men to make an unfair attack upon the railway companies on account of the turn things had now taken, or to sug- gest that in the new scheme the Great Western were running away from their original scheme. The real trouble at Swansea centred on the extra tipping charges of Hd per ton charged at Swansea, and which Port Talbot had not to contend with.

TEMPERANCE IN MERIONETH. At the annual meeting of the Merionethshire Temperance Association,, held on Friday at Aherdovey, and presided over by Dr. Jones. J.P., narlch the question of establishing temperance houses with stabling accommoda- tion was considered- The Secretary (the Rev. O. Lloyd Owen, Bontddu, Dolgelly) presented the report of the Executive Committee dealing with the matter, and it was agreed to build these houses in the principal towns of the county. Upon the proposition of Mrs R. ft. Morris. Tabernacle, Festiniog, it was resolved to urge upon church officials, Sunday school teachers, and more especially parents, the necessity of making every effort within their power to keep children from the practice of using tobacco. It was further resolved that the Government should pass a measure makiug it unlawful to sell tobacco to children under 16 years of age. The next annual meeting will be held at LJanuwchllyn.

EISTEDDFOD AT SWANSEA. An Eisteddfod was held at the Central Hall, Swansea, on Saturday in connection with Bethel C.M. Chapel. Adjudicators—M»^s8rs J. Singleton, Port Talbot Philip Thomas. Neath and J. Rhys Davies. Presidents, the Mayor of Swansea and the Hon. Odo Vivian secretary, Mr W. D. Roberts. Principal awards :—Piano- forte solo, juveniles, Lily Morgan, Brynhyfryd soprano solo. Miss Edith Jones, Landore con- tralto solo. divided between Madame B. Thomas and Miss Maggie Cox violin solo, juveniles, Mr Harold Jones. Gowerton prize bag, Mrs James Davies, Manselton recita- tion. open. Mr Naboth Francis, Morriston tenor solo, Mr J. Stephens, Bonymaen bass solo, Mr James Jones. Morriston glee, Babell, Cwmbwrla hymn tune, C arm el, Morriston r.ivvnilf choirs. T;; Immune Swansen.

Splott" Banker" as Host. FINE CIGARS AND FINE PICTURES. To continue the~ exhilarating story of the doings of the fascinating George Mathews, the Splott 44 banker," with whose present whereabouts many persons would like to be acquainted, called upon two Cardiff solici- tors on Monday last with reference to the writ served upon him at the instance of the East Splott Ratepayers' permanent Associa- tion. He gave instructions to one of the solici- tors for the drawing up of an affidavit to resist the writ, and even then talked airily of his nobility of birth, of his father'*castle in Jersey, and of a huge estate in Roumania. Next morning he disappeared. 44 Sir George appeared to find much delight in changing his legai advisers. 3 Although married, with a wife and family, Mathews posed as a single man, and secured an introduction to a lady of social position, and he confided to some of his friends that he was engaged to her. And while he went about smoking expensive cigara, and regaling himself with the best of wines and dinners, his wife and children were often in want. Some time ago be invited a gentleman with whom he was on business terms to visit the Bank in Carlisle-street. *• I am a good judge of cigars," said the gen- tleman referred to, on Saturday, hut really I have never smoked better than those given me by Mr Mathews on tb&t visit. He also treated me to whiskies and soda, and insisted upon my taking away a box of cigars. He opened the safe, and directed my attention to its contents-a. great pile of jewellery. Then he showed me a wonderful collection of pictures. One room was almost packed with them. I do not claim to be a judge of paintings, but I thought some of the pictures were of consider- able value. I offered Mathews £5 for a small painting. He implied,4 I would not sell it for £ 50-' He looked as though be meant it, too." 44 If the pictures were really of value, where could the man have got them from ?" 44 He told me they came from his father's castle in Jersey. He was an extraordinary man, and so very plausible, too." ivhen talking of his estate in Roumania, Mathews was asked why lie did not realise. 441 wish I could." he answered with well- feigned regret, but you see, there's a family dispute, and it can't be done." Not content with an estate in Roumania, the, Splott44 banker also claimed to have valuable mining property in Mexico.

ARCHDEACON'S SUICIDE. Archdeacon Thomas Williams, of Merioneth, who bad been suffering from depression since last March, was on Saturday, at 7.50 a.m., found by a servant suspended by a rope in an outbuilding of the Llanystumdwy Vicarage, where he resided. The archdeacon's son, Mr Herbert St. John Williams, cut his father down. Death had already occurred. Deceased was 55 and enjoyed a wide popularity. The inquest was held on Saturday. Mr Herbert St. John Williams deposed that his father had been suffering for years from in- so mnia, which took aggravated form in April, and despondency ensued, but at no. time had he shown any tendency to commit suicide. He retired at 10 o'clock on Friday night, calm and apparently a little better. Next morning he was discovered hanging dead in the hay shed. Mrs Susan Williams, the widow, who at times sobbed bitterly, stated that before retiring on .Friday night deceased kissed her on the fore- head, and that was the last time she saw him alive. Medical evidence showed death was instantaneous. A verdict of Suicide whilst o temporarily insane was returned. The archdeacon was a zealous Welsh Nationalist, and some years ago was a prominent figure in National Eisteddfod and Gorsedd circles. So keen was the interest taken by him in the old Welsh festival that he was at one time regarded as a probable successor to Hwfa Mon in the office of Arch- druid. Archdeacon Thomas Williams. The archdeacon was a natrve of Cowbridge. ¥ehZ1S Alf *ch°risterat Magdalen College .an<* became demy and exhi- bitioner at Magdalen College, eventually taking lX7inf^fSLm ?1C>der'lfcior- Graduating in 1874, and tatmg hts master s degree three years later, his first curacy was Llanidloes. He subsequently held the following appointments -Minor Canon of Bangor. diocesan inspector for Arfon Deanery, vicar Of Uanidloes, pre- bendary of Penmynydd in Bangor Cathedral and canon residentiary, warden of Bangor School of Divinity, and rector of Trawsfynydd. He was appointed rector of Llanystumdwy and Archdeacon of Merioneth in 1891 • W?* regarded as a most brilliant scholar in chapter, and had composed several hymns. Tbe great work of his life Was the restoration of Llanidloes Parish Church. He suffered greatly from insomnia, which brought about depression. A recent sea voyage failed to restore his health. He leaves a widow and six children.

SERIES OF FIRES AT CARDIFF. The Cardiff Fire Brigade Was called out twice during Saturday night. The first call was shortly before eight on Saturday night, when Mr Todd reported a fire at a dwelling-house in Tewkesbury-place, occupied by Mr Evan Watkins. A tender was at once despatched by Superintendent Geen, but on its arrival at the scene the fire had been extinguished by buckets of water. The outbreak originated in the front room on the ground floor, and the blinds and window curtains and two chairs were destroyed, while the window frame was damasked. Mrs Watkins, who was last in the room at 5 p m., cannot suggest how the fire originated. The second call was at 152 a.m. on Sunday, when information was telephoned of a fire having broken oub at a tock-up shop in James- street, belonging to Mr William Ferguson. The steamer William McKenzie was despatched, in charge of Superintendent Geen. A hose from West Bute-street had already been sent and was being used on the fire when the brigade arrived. The fire originated in ttte ceUar and spread to the back of the shop, but it was soon extinguished. The cellar contained a quantity of empty boxes and paper. The ceiling of the cellar was burned through and the flames had spread by the cellar stairs to the kitchen. The damage is estimated at about 980. Mr Ferguson left the shop between twelve and one o'clock apparently safe, and he does not know how the fired occurred. A fire also occurred on Saturday night in a batcher's shop, occupied by Mr Joseph Krotosky in Clare-road, a wardrobe and ball- stand being by Rom" means unknown set on fire. P.C. George Young rushed into the house and with the assistance of the occupier put out 1h, fire with .'i í. \"1"i. of

Maesteg Strike Scenes. POLICE COURT PROCEEDINGS. Fines Inflicted. At Bridgend on Saturday cases arising out of the recent strike against non-Unionists in the Maesteg district were heard. The first was that of David Saunders, collier, High-street, Maesteg, who was summoned for using threaten- ing language in Caerau-road, Maesteg, on Sep- tember 4th, with intent to put a person in fear. Mr T. J. Hughes (Messrs Hughes and Lewis, solicitors, Bridgend) prosecuted on behalf of the chief constable, and Mr J. Sankey (in- structed by Mr Evan E. Davies, solicitor to the Maesteg District ofthe Miners' Federation) defended. P.C. Kelland, Caerau, said that about 11-50 p.m. on Sept. 4th he was on duty in Caerau- road when he saw a crowd of about 500 walking in procession towards the Caerau Library. In the forefront walked a man named David Jenkins, whom Dsvid Saunders was holding by the right arm. The attitude of the crowd was hostile. Witness went to Saun • ders, and asked him why he did not let the man go. to which Saunders replied, He will have to pay the Federation before he goes." Jenkins made no complaint, but witness told Saunders to let him go and he refused. Witness then caught hold of Jenkins, and again asked Saunders to let him go, and after about five minutes he did so. Mr Sankey (ironically) Is that ail that took place t P.C. Kelland Yes, that's all. Is that the whole *tory, from beginning to end all that I saw. InfurthertiOD, P.C. Kelland said the crowd was composed chiefly of young men, and at tbe time he did not consider it necessray to send for extra police. Jenkins made no complaint to him. He saw Jenkins the next day, and he then made no complaint. Jenkins had, he believed, now left the district, as the police were unable to find him. Mr Sankey: Is there such a person as Jenkins ?—He-has been served with a witness summons. There is nothing much in this case-you don't think so, do you. Kelland ?—I think they were interfering with the liberty of the man. P.C. Parry said he heard Jenkins's wife appeal to the crowd to let her husband go. Mr Sankey This is rather a trumpery thing, is it not ? What do you think ? P.C. Parry 1 can't say. You have had no complaint, have you f-, His wife was complaining. Mr Sankey: I have always beard that women are more fearful than men. Jenkins made no complaint to you ?—No. Was Jenkins injured 1-He was pulled about. By whom ?—By Saunders. Afraid to Say Anything. Yet said nothing ?—I think he was afraid to say anything. Mr Sankey submitted that no case had b een made out. Jenkins was the man most coned. and might be expected to come and ask for protection. Jenkins made no complaint even when seen by a ponceconstabte 24 hours afterwards, when there was no crowd to frighten him. There was a good deal of horseplay, but when a criminal charge was preferred it was necessary to go further than that. The Bench discussed the case at length, after which the Chairman stated that a majority of the magistrates con- sidered there had been a breach of the County Council bye-laws under which the case was brought, and David Saunders would be fined £2 and bound over to be of good behaviour. The next case was that of David Williams, collier, Picton-street, NantyffyUon, who was charged with a similar offence and also with obstructing the police in the execution of their duty. Police-sergeant Rees Davies said that about 10 p.m. on September 5th be was in Caerau-road with P.C. Kellard. A crowd of about 300 persons came towards him and at the head of it was defendan another man, and one named Frederick Roberts. Those com- posing the crowd appeared very angry. some of them were booing and pushing Roberts along. When the crowd reached witness, who was standing in the middle of the road, Roberts said to him, I want you to stop the crowd pushing me. Witness asked Williams and the other man to release him, and the other man did so, but Williams would not. Witness then took hold of Roberts, whereupon Williams tried to get him away shooting to the crowd, To the river, boys." Wit- ness spoke to the crowd, and some of them shouted, Don't push, boys, do what the police say.' Witness then got Roberts away, but after they had gone a little distance Wil. liams rushed towards them, using filthy language, and shouted to the crowd, Of Don't let the take him, boys." A witness sum- mons had been served on Roberts, but he had left the district. No Marks of Violence In reply to Mr Sankey, the sergeant said the affair lasted about twenty minutes- Roberts did appear a little exhausted, but bore no marks of violence. After the affair witness entered a report in the police journal that Williams was drunk and disorderly and obstructed him. and he also re- ported him to the superintendent. Mr Sankey suggested that this charge was a make-weight," and asked to see the report as it was made at the time, but Mr Hughes said he could not expose the official documents of the police. P.C. Kellard corroborated the evidence of Sergeant Davies. He also said that defendant afterwards came to the Police Station and ex- pressed regret for what he had done. Mr Sankey admitted that this was a more serious case than the other, but it appeared that defendant was under the influence of drink. Williams was fined £2 for each of the two offences, there being a previous conviction against him fat, assaulting the police. Trevor Lewis, Caerau-road. Jftmea Davies, Brown-street, Nantyffyllon, Philip Lewis, Tonna-road, Nantyffyllon, William Henry Griffiths, Nantyffyllon, Richard Lewis, Grove- road, Nantyffyllon, were summoned for using abusive and insulting language in Castle street on September 8th, and also for obstructing the free passage of the highway. John Jenkins. coHier. Nantyffyllon. was summoned for obstructing the'police. David Jenkins, collier, Caerau, was summoned for insulting conduct. Inspector Sansome said that he was going to the railway station at Maesteg on September 8th, on his way to the Bridgend Police Court, accompanied by Sergeant Rees Davies. He heard someone playing a cornet, and he and the sergeant went to Castle-street, where they met a crowd, which wa. beaded by D. Jenkins, who was playing a cornet, while another man carried a flag. Behind them was William Ellis, an old man about 60, dressed in a white shirt and a white hat trimmed with red and blue ribbons. Ed is said to witness, I want protection from this howling mob. I am afraid they will pull me to pieces." Ellis looked distressed he was very pale. Witness and Sergeant Davies took hold of the old man, and then John Jenkins caught hold of him and shouted, Now, boys, don't let the —— go," and the crowd, which was very angry, began to shout. Don't let the —— go." Witness and Sergeant Davies were hustled about for about five minutes before the crowd would let Ellis go. Ellis was taken to Bridgend, as the police had no time to put him in a place of safety before their train went. In reply to Mr Sankey, the Inspector said that no one but John Jenkins had hold of Ellis, and no one used violence. Sergeant Rees Davies corroborated, and in cross-examination by Mr Sankey said he con- sidered defendants were violent, but no blows were struck. Elderly Miner Frog-Marched. William Ellis, who said he was 63 years of age, said he was a member of the Federation ever since its establishment in the district, but he had not paid up all his subscriptions. He went to Coegnant Colliery on the 8th Septem- ber. but was able to work. As he was re- turning he met about a hundred men, who ap- peared to be waiting for him. Jenkins and others caught hold of him, he was thrown down on his left side and his hip had been painful ever since. They then threw his box of food and water can int-o the river, and then raised him up and carried him face downwards towards the Nantyffyllon Institute. On the way he lost a valuable watch he had had for many years. After holding a council of war in the vernacular, which he did not understand, they dressed him up in a white shirt and a white hat, and marched him through the public streets. He was in their hands three hours before he was rescued by the police. Someone bithhn a severe blow on the head, and as he was being marched along he was kicked and thumped, and his clothes were torn. By Mr Sankey: He had been working ever since the affair. Richard Lewis put the white shirt on him, but afterwards did not ill-treat him. Trevor Lewis, Richard Lewis, James Davies. and Philip Lewis were fined £2 each; Wil- liam H. Griffiths, against whom there was a pre- vious conviction, £ 3 John Jenkins was fined £3; and David Jenkins £1 and all defendants were bound over to be of good behaviour. The charges of obstruction were dismissed. The chairman told John Jenkins that had he been there on a more serious charge he would hare been more severely dealt with.

A BRIDGEND LAD'S INJURIES. His Father Fined. James Thomas, a labourer in the employ of the Bridgend Council, was fined £2 at Bridgend on Satuwlay for brutally beating his little boy* aged nine, with a strap at the end of which was a steel buckle. The evidence showed that the beating was administered when tbe, boy was stripped naked, and that bis body was almost covered with weals. The .prosecution was undertaken by the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, for whom Vir T. J. Hughes appeared.

An old passage leading from Mount Stuart- square through the yard of the Imperial Hotel to the Glamorgan Canal, at Cardiff Docks, has been bricked up, and a good many people are annoyed in consequence, the passage having been used as a short cut from the square to the canal for many years. It is stated that the passage has been closed in accordance with a scheme of improvements of the hotel, plans of which were passed by the Licensing Com- t;d,tc(\ sr>rii« tinir- 'i »

EMPIRE ARTISTE'S AERIAL FUGHT. Chauffeur Badly Shaken. On Sunday afternoon an accident occurred to a motor-car, in which Mr Friel Lyons. of the Lyons troupe of acrobats, who have been per- forming at the Cardiff Empire, was being driven. Apparently something went wrong with the steering-gear, and the car was upset; on the embankment adjoining the railway bridge of the Portcawl line at Pyle. Mr Lyons was thrown 30 or 40 yards, alighting on his shoulder, but he does not appear to have sus- tained any injury beyond a wrench of the finger. The chauffeur feU near the car, and was rather badly shaken, while the car was smashed. After the accident Mr Lyons returned to Bridgend, where he was seen by our reporter. I was driving with my pony and trap," said Mr Lyons, from Cardiff to Swansea, where we are appearing at the Em- pire this week. I pulled up at the Horse and Groom at Cowbridge and was introduced to the chauffeur. 1 only know his name as George,' and I understand he was taking the car from a garage at Cardiff to Car- digan. He said that he was going Swansea way, and I might put up the pony and trap at Cowbridge and take a run in the car. I did so. As we were crossing the railway bridge at Pyle something seemed to go wrong with the steer- ing gear and the wheels went all shapes. George put on the brakes and the car imme- diately tnrned over down the embankment. I was thrown out violently and alighted on my shoulder, but as I am used to acrobatic per- formances I suppose that is the reason why I escaped so well. fell near the car, which, broke in haif 8Dd is completely smashed up. I returned to Bridgend with the idea of f oing back to Cowbridge to get my pony and rap. If I had stuck to the trap I should have been in Swansea by this time. I think in future I shall stick to horseflesh." Our reporter accompanied Mr Lyons to the Bridgend railway station to meet the -8-10 train from Pyle, in which was the chauffeur return- ing to Cardiff. The chauffeur said the accident was caused by the steering gear going wrong. He had had a very severe shaking, but thought he would be all right in a day or two.

LADY DERBY THROWN FROM CAR. Whilst descending a hill at Bronltbton. near Preston, on Friday one of Lord Derby's motor- cars, containing the Countess of Derby, Mr Milner (the comptroller of the household), and the chauffeur, met with an alarming mishap. It was emerging from the rear of a victoria driven by a Preston magistrate when another motor-car was seen descending the opposite hill at comparatively close quarters. A collision seemed inevitable, but the chauffeur of Lord ■ Derby's car, with commendable promptitude, ran the vehicle into a fence. Lady Derby was thrown out, falling on her head, and was ren- dered unconscious for several minutes. The car was considerably damaged. When her Ladyship recovered consciousness she was con- veyed to Preston railway station and the to Witherslack Hall, the Lonsdale residence of the Derby family. No bones were broken, but her Ladyship suffered much from shock. Another message says :—It appears that the motor, a 40 horse power Napier, was turned towards theditch as the least-dangerous alternative. All brakes were promptly jammed on, but this did not prevent the car dashing with great fcrce into a fence and striking a telegraph pole. Both Mr Milner and the chauf- feur were also pitched forward. The other moter, which had in the meantime gone past, returned to the scene, and the occupants, as well as those of the victoria, rendered every assistance. The Press Association on Saturday evening received the following telegram from Earl Derby Motor in avoiding carriage collided with telegraph post; motor smashed Lady Derby thrown out, much shaken, but escaped serious injury."

THOROUGHFARE OBSTRUCTED. Salvation Army Services at Pontypool. At the Pontypool Police Court on Saturday the adjourned summonses against 22 members of the Salvation Army for obstructing the highway on August 25th were proceeded with. Another member of the corps was sununoned for refusing to desist from playing a concertina when requested to do so by a constable on August 27th- Mr Horace S. Lyne prosecuted on behalf of the police, and Mr Frost (Messrs Ranger, Bourton, and Frost, solicitors, Lon- don) defended. Mr Horace Lyne said it was with considerable regret that these proceedings were taken.by the police,Lwho recognised, as most people did, the large amonut.of good done by the Salvation Army. This, he believed, was the first time the Army bad been brought before the notice-of tbe justices in tbe county of Monmouth, and proceedings in this instance would have not been taken but for open defiance on the part of the Army. Com- mercial-street was the main thoroughfare in Pontypool, and the Army should not be allowed to monopolise the chief thoroughfares on the busiest nights in the week. On tbe evening named in the summons there were about 200 people around the Army workers, and the thoroughfare was completely blocked. P.C. Hourigan said he told one of the defendants be must not cause an obstruction, but defen- dant replied he would not move away until the meeting was over. Some of the other defen- dants said they would move away when the meeting had finished, and others said they would move away in haif-an-bour. The cir- cumstances were not denied, and Mr Frost said the Army had held this pitch for a period of 25 years, and this was the first time they had been interfered with by the police. Mr W. P. James, the chairman, said the Bench had no doubt that there had been an obstruction. No persons, however good they might be. had a right to obstruct the King's highway. The justices recognised the good work done, and had no wish to deal harshly with the defen- dants. The Bench would dismiss the cases, but-ordered the defendants to pay the costs, 5s each. The case against the defendant for play- ing a concertina was proceeded with. Defen. dant denied that he played the instrument, but another soldier did so. The Bench dismissed the case.

RAILWAY COMMISSION, Suggested Post for Mr Richard Bell, M.P. The vacancy on the Railway Commission created by the death of Sir Frederick Peel has not yet been filled, although many applications for the post have been received, and it is suggested that Labour may be given the seat. One of the leading authorities in the men's society said to a Press representative :— We think that the Commission is composed of men who have little or no experience of the working of railways or of railway management. Their sole knowledge is that which is acquired in tho course of their proceedings as a court. No commission of the kind can be considered complete without a practical railwayman on it. Who would I suggest should be selected for the position ? Why, a Trade Unionist—a man already accustomed to act more or less in a judiciel capacity. During recent years Trade Unionism has brought the best of the working men to the front. It has done so in the case of railwaymen. Ten years ago we had Mr E. Harford, a man of ripe judicial mind, who would have been any ornament to the Railway Commission, Now we have Mr Richard Bell, whom the electors of Derby have twice honoured with their confidence. He has shown rare powers as well of diplomacy as of argu- ment and common sense. Mr Bell, as you are aware, is the object of a conspiracy, it is sought to drive him out of public life on account of his honest adherence to his political convictions and determined resistance to the operations of extremists. It is acknowledged by most people who have a knowledge of his work that Mr Bell has done yeoman service to the class he represents and to the public whom they serve."

A MYTHICAL FORTUNE. An Explanation from Cardiff. At Friday's meeting of the Barnstaple Board of Guard i a us, Mr G. C. Davie, J.P., C.C., pre- siding, tbe clerk: read a letter from Herbert Gammon. South Wales, asking for details of a rumoured discovery of jewellery and a deposit note for JE300 in the bedding of a Mrs Gammon, of Braunton, who was removed to the Barn- staple Workhouse, and died a week later. The Chairman said another letter more to the purpose had been received from Mr G. Andrews, of Canton, Cardiff, the relative to whom Mr Yeo Tucker, who purchased the bedding, forwarded his find. He wrote that the jewellery turned out to be a few brass rings, and the deposit in a Liverpool Bank to be a Third at Sight, drawn 35 years ago upon a Liverpool^ firm. There was every reason to believe that the first had been duly honoured, but even supposing that neither of the drafts had been satisfied, it was very doubtful whether the amount was available.

FARM FIRE NEAR LLANDYSSUL. Over J6500 Damage. About 1 o'clock on Saaday morning Mr J Jones, C.C., owner of Pantmoch Farm. Pont- shaen, near Llandyssul, found that some of his outhouses, together with part of his haggard, were on fire. Owing to the lateness of the hour not much help could be obtained. The stables, and the cowhouses, which had been newlv- erected, were completely gutted, and 11 stacks of corn and one rick of hay were also burnt down. The damage is estimated at from £500 to £600. The stables and cowhouses were in- snred. As yet tbe cause of the fire is not known.

NANTGARW BABY MYSTERY. The body of a newly-born male child was discovered wrapped up in a pair of bloomers in a hedge adjoining the highway at Upper Boat, Nantgarw, on Sunday. The discovery was made by Matthew Herne, a Cardiff youth, who noticed the bloomers in the hedge as he was passing on his bicycle. He communicated his discovery to the police, who are making inquiries. The child had evidently been placed 1 II i r" ,1' 'i.

WOMEN AND TEMPERANCE. Public Meeting at Cardiff. SPEECH BY MR D. A. THOMAS, M.P. A public meeting, under the auspices of the 7 British Women's Temperance Association held on Saturday night at the Cory Hall, under the presidency of Mr D. A.. Thomas, There was a large attendance and an attractive programme of music had been arranged. Mr D. A. Thomas, M.P., in the course of his opening remarks, congratulated the association. upon the success which had attended their; meeting* and efforts during the week. They beard these days of the great need for social reforms, but the greatest reform needed that towards the making of this country in a sober nation. (Hear, bear.) It must havfe* been very gratifying to Lady Cecilia Rober18 and others who thought and worked with her to feel that the work they had done had JlO" been in vain. They must have read with much J pleasure and with the most profound satisfac- B tion the speech of Mr As quith last Session^when>| he found that far Jess money was coming to t the Exchequer for drink than in former yeara^ The great decrease in the drinking habits of J the country during the past few years was due largely to the Temperance tions. Legislation bad done practieally| nothing for temperance in the last 30 years, but there had beenaconsiderable change in the | habits of the people. They spent more money in travelling and entertainments of a reasonably 2 and proper kind. That left less moneyfor drink. J It was, however, the continual hammering | away of the temperancespeakers and reformers that deserved the greatest credit for this de- £ crease. (Hear, hear.) They were promised « next Session legislation on that matter. The Prime Minister, who was a strong and at;1 cautious man, and always as good as his word. had promised legislation next Session, and he^) (Mr D. A. Thomas) expected it would bsfi drastic legislation in the direction of temper- J ance reform. The present Government owetfy! its great majority—a record majority in theq~j history of the country—very largely to the work of temperance people and organisations.'? throughout the country. There was a tremea- dons majority of temperance men inthe Housed of Commons, and if they could not get a ttfcfrVa of their own way now when could they hope 1;0$ get it ? He sincerely hoped the Government 71 would not be afraid of anybody in another"! place. though he saw no reason why they £ should think the House of Lords should not ba in favour of temperance reform. He hoped, ? however, the Government would take their ? courage in both hands and bring in a real, ? drastic temperance measure, otherwise the ? country would be greatly disappointed aJUI, have every reason to be. (Applause..) Miss Syenonds Ohlin, a Swedish lady, ex. i plained the working of the Gothenburg system and the reasons for its comparative failure. 1' Lady Cecilia Roberts made a strong appeal to the Cardiff branch of the B.W.HA. to increase its membership. She strongly advo- j cated prohibition, which, she maintained. would further every good cause. From a national point of view her Ladyship advo- j cated prohibition, for some of the choicest spirits in the land had been lost to the nation through drink. (Hear, hear.) The temperance movement would ease nearly all their present difficulties. People did not want excitement but happiness therefore let them demand from the people that sacrifice which would bring them happiness. (Applause.) Lady Dorothy Howard said that their work was to try to create public opinion asrainst A drink. Her Ladyship made a stirring appeal ,1. to temperance workers to labour in the shnns. 1', They did not sign the pledge for example, but ? for the sake of comracLaship with others and. for | the sake of self-sacrifice. (Applause.) > Mr Donald Maclean, M.P., proposed a voteof i thanks to the chairman, the speakers and the ? choir. 4 This was seconded by Mr Glenelg G~rant and J carried unanimously. i Many pulpits in CatdiS and district were i occupied on Sunday by lady delegates to the ':1 B.W.T.A. meetings, and two of the ladies spoke at a meeting in connection with the Lon- .i don Missionary Society in Wood-street Chapel j on Sunday evening. 1

ABERDARE & MERTHYR UNION. DEFENCE OF IRISHMEN. Scathing Remarks by Father O'Reilly. Another discussion took place at a of the Merthyr Board of Guardians on Safor- day on the request of the Local Government i Board for the guardians' opinion on the peti- » tion from Aberdare that that parish should be separated from the Merthyr Union. Mr John '1 Rogers presided. | On the report of the special meeting cither board, held on Monday last to consider the ap- plication for the severance of Aberdare from the Merthyr Union^cormng up for adoptiox^fche Chairman said he hoped the board would eon- ] sider the matter dispassionately. Father O'Reilly moved the adoption of the J report approving the petition, and asked the { Merthyr members who were opposed, to aepa- ration if they had a strong case not to fear an :1 inquiry, for the Commissioner would go in 7 the evidence, and the stronger and j lister 1 case would prevail. Mr Dd. Hughes seconded, and appealed to the Merthyr representatives to 1 let the matter go to inquiry so that the matter could be settled once for all. | Alderman Dd. Evans moved an amend- 'j ment that the matter be left to tho coo« "] sideration of each parish so that they could have an opportunity of refuting the mis- representations in the petition. There was no 1 seconder. The Rector of Dowlais moved as an j amendment that the Board simply regarded the opinion of the Local Government Board itself as being an expression of its feelings in the matter of the proposed division of the Union. This expression, which was separation, was contained in a letter written in September, 1893. Mr John Lloyd seconded. Father O'Reilly complained bitterly of the reflection cast by Aid. David Evans upon the Irish population in Merthyr as causing the 1 pauperism in the district. There were 7,000 or I 8,000 Irish people in the parish of Merthyr, and (according to the last abstract) only 138 of them received outdoor relief. It was entirely due to the circumstances under which they t lived that they were impoverished. There were I 500 Irish in Aberdare, and he could count on J tbe fingers of one hand all those receiving re- { lief. In Mountain Ash there were between 1,000$■ and L200 Irish people, only four of them re- f ceived outdoor relief. And the poverty prevail- i. ing in Merthyr parish was due to the degrad- ? ing and squalid circumstances under which i they had to live—circumstances which had been i! regarded for years with indifference by people who were now decorated with the high titles of Aldermen, and so on. When he was in Dowiais i 25 years ago it used to make his blood run cold I when he saw how the people had to live, and it ? was scandalous that the neglect of the authori- ties in seeing that they were properly housed j should now he overlooked and the people tbam- t selves blamed in statements made at that ] board. (Applause.) -1 The amendment was carried by Id votes to 18.

BOARDS OF GUARDIANS. CARDTFF. Several members of the Cardiff Board of Guardiana were at their meeting on Saturday somewhat astonished at the fact that the Local Government Board had departed from their practice by actually sending a telegram One guardian- remarked that it was the first time in the history of the Cardiff Board that such a thing had occurred. The central authority's telegram was a to the Board s letter asking th Local Govern- ment Board if assistance towards the cost of preparing a register of paupers cowid be given out of Imperial funds. The reply was that it was not contemplated that such expenditure should be defrayed out of Imperial funds. As a letter from the Local Government Board is to follow, discussion on the question W8II deferred for a week. Newport. At Saturday's meeting of the Newport Board of Guardians, Mr T. Dutfield presiding, an application from the tour relieving officers for extra remuneration in respect to returns of pauperism supplied to the Royal Commission on the Poor Laws was referred to the Finance Committee. A recommendation of the Work- house Visiting Committee to carry out certain alterations at Springfield House, where it is proposed to accommodate tubercular cases, was adopted, as well as a recommendatâon that they deal with the accommodation of children at the Beeches. Chepstow. Chepstow Guardians on Saturday considered the estimate of expenditure for the ensuing half year, and the Finance Committee recom. mended the following rates :—Mnnmnntlnhnw parishes. Is lOd Gloucestershire, Is 6d—a de. crease of 2d and 2d respectively. It was stated that the assessable value of the Union had increased by £8.000, and now amounted to £133.711. Tbe estimate was passed. Merthyr. j At a meeting of Merthyr Board of Guardians on Saturday, under the chairmanship of Mr John Rogers, it was reported that a precept from the Glamorgan County Council had been received amounting to 9s lid— £ 3^864 < 18s 9d for Aberdare, £7,[1:J7 Is 8d for Gelligaer. £3,858 for Merthyr, and JE356 Is 8d for Rhigos. v The estimate of the board's expenditure during the ensuing half-year was £38.628. The clerk suggested a call of £40.000. The esthnatrwas adopted. At a. meeting of the Assessment Committee supplemental valuation lists were approved, showing the following increases :—Aberdare, £4,821 15s (coal £3.872); Merthyr. £1..9U (coal £1.149); Gelligaer..£3,337 (coal £2,536); Pen- deryn, £25 15s. The list for Rhigos showed a decrease of £18315s.

Mr D. W. Yorwerth, who has been for the past four years general cashier of the London and Provincial Bank at Barry, has been pro- moted as manager of the Bargoed Branch of the bank. Mr Yorwerth, who is a brother of Councillor T. J. Yorwerth, Cowbridge. identi- fied himself verv actively the local crickct •