The Aberdare Leader

:Eisteddfod at Penrhiw- cei ber. The Penrhiwceiber Literary Society held their first annual eisteddfod at the Public Hall on St. David's Day. There was a very large attendance. In the ab- sence of Dr. R. W. Jones, Mr. Hugh Roberts occupied the chair. The follow- ing were the adjudicators: Music, Messrs Morgan Dalles, A.R.A.M., and Samuel Davies, A.C., Penrhiwceiber. Essays, Rev. David Jones, M.A. (Hermou), Pen- rhiwceiber. Poetry, Rev. T. Manuel (Talvan), Aberdare. Recitations, Revs. David Jones and T. Manuel. Hand- drawing and Mining questions, Mr. Win. Phillips, M.E. (manager), Penrhiwceiber Colliery. Successful ComDetitors:- Reciting any song or verse for children unnkr ten; prize divided between Miss Maggie Evans and Mr. Morgan Morgans, Penrhiwceiber. Contralto solo, "Adlais y Dvddiau Gynt," (1) Miss Sarah Evans, Penrhiw- ceiber. Soprano solo, "Neges y Blodeuyn," Miss Hannah Jones, Penrhiwceiber. Solo for children under 12, "Dim ond Deilen/' Sarah C. Jones and Morgan Morgans, Penrhiwceiber, equal. Tenor solo, HGwalia. Anwyl," Mr. Rich- ard Pugh, Penrhiwceiber. Bass solo, "Merch y Cadben," Mr. Wm. Williams, Pen rhiwceiber. Duet, "Hywel a Blodwen," Mr. J. Ed- wards and friend', Miskin. Chief Choral, "Dyddiau Dyn," Cynon Music Choir, under the baton of Mr. R. Pugh. Recitation, "Meinched Pawb ei Fusnes ei Hun," Miss Bonner, Penrhiwceiber. Recitation, "Y Dedwydd Dri," Mr. S. Jones, Maerdy. Recitation for children under 10, "The First Psalm," Master Morgan Morgans. Hand drawing for school children, Mas- ter Osborne Morgan. Questions on the Mines Regulation Act, Mr. David Davies, Penrhiwceiber. Speech on "Dewi Sant," prize divided between Mr. Richard Richards and Mr. R. Griffiths. Essay oni "Adgyfodiad," prize divided between Messrs. John Davies and E. Griffiths. Three verses to "The Literary Society," Mr. D. Williams (Ap Valant).. Englyn, "Pryder," Rev. J. R. Hughes, Abercynon. Hir a Thoddaid to the late Mr. William Richards, Ab Hevin, Aberdare. Pryddest, "Gardd Gethsemane," Crom- lech, Portmadog. The Eisteddfod was a grand success, and great praise is due to Mr. WT. Ed- wards and Mr. R. O. Thomas for the ad- mirable manner in which they performed their duties as joint secretaries, also to Mr. D. Francis, the Eisteddfod conductor. The gold medal for the conductor of the winning choir was given by Mrs. Jones, Tanvbryn, Penrhiwceiber. The following patrons were present:- Messrs. E. T. Williams, D.C., J. P. Davies, D.C., Thomas Jones, D.C., Mr. John Williams (the popular guardian), Messrs. E. Morris, A. M. Jorcs, W. James, M.E., and several others. The singing of the Doxology concluded the proceedings.

St. David's Day at Hirwain. St. David's Day was not allowed to pass without IsiQme function in honour of our patron saint, and although the leek was not very conspicuous during the day it was necessary to don the National Em- blem to gain admittance to the annual dinner and smoker held under the aus- pices of the Hirwain Cork Club at the Locomotive Inn. Mr. R. Pett, manager of the brickworks, presided, and Mr. Victor Morgan (district secretary of the Gasworkers' Union) occupied the vice- chair, and about 30 members of the order sat down to a sumptuous repast provided by the hostess, Mrs. Letitia Hopkins. After the tables were chlSred the party f settled down to an enjoyable evening. The Chairman proposed the "Health of the Welsh Nation! and Mr. Vietor Morgan, in seconding, gave an interesting review of the progress of South Wales generally. The toast, together with that of the "Cork Club," were diunk with great gusto. Afterwards a capital musical pro- gramme was gone through, and the fol- lowing ladies and gentlemen took part: Messrs. Jabez Davies, J. Jenkins. Jen- nings, and D. Thomas, Merthyr; Mr. J. Davies. Brecon-road (secretary of the- Cork Club): Messrs. R. Boynes (GIan- cynon), Will Barrett (Hirwain), Miss M. Hopkins, Mr. Rees Powell, and Mr. Wyndham Thomas (G.W.R.). A most enjoyable evening was brought to a close by singing "Hen Wlad fv Nhadau." Me'ssrs. J. Allen and Morgan James as- sisted with the refreshments. Mies Hop- kins ably presided at the piano.

Abercynon Police Court. 011 Wednesday.—Before Sir T. Mar- chant Williams (Stipendiary). HER FAVOURITE BRAND. ABERCYNON WOMAN'S LAPSE. Rachel John, a married woman, wiu. summoned for being drunk and disorder- iy in Station-road, Abercynon. P.C. Wilson said that on January 20th he saw the defendant in fetation- street. She was very drunk, and, making use of bad language towards the landlord of the Junction Hotel, who had ejected her. Defendant (to witness): What was the nature of my abusive language r Witness: It was most filthy language. You had your hat and shawl off. Stipendary: Have you any other ques- tions ? Mi's. John: No, sir, but I wish to make a statement. I went to the Junction Hotel oni the 20th. I was drinking there in the day, when the landlord advised me to go out. I was having a drop of Thompson's whiskey at the time. Clerk: Who is ThompsonP Defendant: It ts a celebrated whiskey, sir. Stipendiary: A favourite brand of yours, I suppose. (Laughter.) Defendant: Yes, sir, my, favourite brand. (Renewed laughter.) J after- wards asked for a bottle of soda water. Clerk: What did you want that for— to sobc-r yourself? Defendant: Yes, I was about to go home to my husband. Stipendiary: Oh, you have a. husband, have youP-Yes. The defendant went on to say that the landlord ejected her, and struck her on the head causing a big swelling. She showed it to P.S. Rees -and also to Dr. G riffiths. Stipendiary: I am afraid you must give up that favourite brand. Defendant: Yes, sir. I'm willing, but surely you cannot countenance a licensed victualler striking a woman on the head. Stipendiary: That charge is not before us now. You can take out a summons against him to-morrow if you like. Defendant: I will take one out to-day, for I was in bed two days after that blow on the head. Stipendiary It must be Thompson that affected your head and not Jones the landlord. v You must pay a fine of 10s. and costs. When the Court was over, Mrs. Jones applied for a summons against the land- lord. "If you are a. wise woman," observed the Stipendiary, "you won't take out a summons. But if you have money to throw away, you c-an take it." Mrs. Jones: I will take your advice, but I don't think it is fair for a publican to knock a woman down. EJECTMENT ORDERS. The Ynysboeth No. 1 Building Club ap- plied for ejectment orders against Mrs. Ashton and George Peters, Ynysboetli.— Granted. IN SEARCH OF GAME. John and George Peters, Ynysboeth, were summoned, for trespassing in search of game on land belonging to Messrs. Nixon Navigation Co. Thomas Hale, said the offence was committed! on Christmas! Day. On that day he saw the two defendants in the I Forest Mountain, near Penrhiwceiber. They had a net and also two or three fer- rets, which they placed in rabbits' holes. Fines of 10s. and costs each were in- flicted. DRUNKS. Arthur Price, in Park-stret, Abercynon, 5s. and costs. Evan Jones, in Mountain Ash road, 10s. and costs. Asked whether Jhe had been drinking Thompson's Whiskey, Jones said, "No, it is not a favourite brand of mine." Wm. Ward, who was summoned for being drunk, said he had a. little whiskey to cure a. cold. Stipendiary: That is the evil of it. You ought to have gone to bed. 10s. and (;u"ts. A CYVMAMAN THEFT. LODGER SENT TO PRISON. Thomas Murphy, apparently about 34 years of age, was charged with stealing a mackintosh, the property of Mrs. Har- per, 162, Fforchaman-road, Cwmaman. Mrs. Harper said that prisoner had lodged with her for some time. On Tues- day, the 6th inst., he came home very drunk. He attempted to take down a clock, but she stopped him, whereupon he said "If I shan't have the clock, I'll take something else." In her absence he then stole a mackintosh and bodice. She went to the door and saw him running down the street with a parcel under his arm. She then gave information to the police. P.C. Owen, Cwmaman, said that after he was informed of the theft he went in chase of prisoner, and followed him down to Mountain Ash, and back again to Abei- uman. He caught him between Aber- aman and Cwmaman. He took him to Aberaman Police Station. He found the mackintosh on the road. Prisoner was very drunk. Later in the evening, when he was sober, prisoner was charged, and in reply he said, "I say rothing. I only stole the mackintosh." Prisoner pleaded guilty, and elected to be tried summarily. He was sent to prison for 14 days.

Nailed 14an Chased THROUGH PENRHIWCEIBER STREETS. It became the duty of two Aberdare bailiffs on Wednesday evening, last week, to arrest a certain man in Woodfield-ter- race, Penrhiwceiber, for i on-pa\ment of debts. It appears that they had anticipated some difficulty in laying hands on their man, for they took special precautions in getting about their business. 0 Whilst one of the bailiffs went to tap at the front door, the other planted him- self right behind the garden wall at the back of the house. The man who was wanted happened to be in the bath at the time, having only just come home from a local colliery, where he had been working that day. So the wife went to> the door, and no sooner was the bailiff's presence known than the back door opened, and through it disappeared a fleeting figure attired in spotless white. So Bailiff No. 1 thought, but Bailiff No. 2 at the back had a better view of him, and he declared that the figure was not attired in white raiment or any other raiment. He was absolutely stark naked. The man jumped OVER THE GARDEN WALL, and succeeded in eluding his would-be captor at the back of the premises. He was chased down Penrhiwceiber-road, and from there to Church-street, where he entered a house, and was lost sight of. His two pursuers gave up the chase that evening, and decided to make another attempt next morning. Accord- ingly, at 5 a.m., they adopted the same tactics as they did the previous evening. And so did the "bird." Dressed, how- ever, this time, he made a dash through the garden, and the door at the top, but: when he emerged into the gulley he was safe in the arms of a bailiff, who quickly secured him, and later in the day accom- panied him to Swansea where he is still detained.

The Merthyr Union. ABERDARE SEEKS SEPARATION. Un Tuesday, at the Memorial Hall, Aberdare, a meeting, convened by the high Constable, was held to discuss the unequal burden of ths Poor Rate on the parishes of Aberdare, Rhigos, and Pen- deryn.. Mr. G. George, G.C., presided, the meeting consisted of a good number of the leading residents of tne town, and some of the heaviest ratepayers. The following Guardians were present: Mrs. Richards, Rev. J. O'Reilly, Messrs. J. i'rowle, W. Thomas, D. Hughes, S. Hawkins, and J. Jenkins. Also Coun- cillors T. Lewis and J. M. Jones. The Rev. J. O'Reilly produced some figures showing the excess of the amount paid to the Common Fund of the Union by Aberdare, Rhigos, and Penderyn over the amount of relief received- by the paupers. The excess amounts in the ag- gregate to < £ 5,989, whereas the working expenses of a separate Workhouse for Aberdare, Rhigos, and Penderyn is estim- ated at = £ 4,440. In the course of 13 year* the Aberdare Call has increased from £ 4,900 to £ 9,898. Mr. W. J. Heppell, Cwmaman, speak- ing in favour of an attempt at separ- ation, took a very cheerful view of the industrial future of Aberdare. He was positive that the ratable value of Aber- dare would not decrease. He felt strong- ly on this question for reasons other than financial. The people of Aberdare were more careful and provident than those on the other side of the mountain, and it was hard that the working men of Aber- dare should have to pay such a heavy poor rate. There was no community of interests between Merthyr and Aberdare. The providence of Aberdare people was swamped by the improvidence of Merthyr people. Now, for more than one reason, was the opportune time to agitate. They had a sympathetic President of the L.G.B. Besides, Merthyr itself had just emerged from the bondage of county rat- able tyranny, and it should adopt a' sym- pathetic attitude towards those who were similarly oppressed. Mr. J. Prowle dwelt on the moral aspect of the question. Merthyr people held that Aberdare would lose bv being de- prived of the benefits of the Merthyr In- firmary. But as a matter of fact, out of the 120 beds there, only a dozen) were oc- cupied by Aberdare people. Besides, the Aberdare Cottage Homes could, be con- verted into an Infirmary. Again, in the Industrial School there were only 28 Aberdare children, whereas there were over 160 from Merthyr, excluding the children maintained away at the Homes. Again, it was a matter of great inconven- ience to the Aberdare poor that the Work- house was situated in Merthyr. Mr. D. M. Richards said that the gen- eral policy of the Local Government Board was, contrary to the sub-division of Unions. That body was governed largely by permanent officials, and they would have to fight a great deal of con- servatism, but he did not despair of suc- cess. Mr. T. Lloyd said he would like to know the views of District Councillors on the matter. Councillor T. Lewis said that the Aber- dare Council, were favourable to the movement. Mr. J. Ruther suggested that a deputa- tion; should) wait on; the Local Govern- ment Board. Eventually the following motion was passed: "That this rneeting is strongly of opinion that the Parishes of Aberdare, Penderyn, and Rhigos should be separ- ated from the Merthyr Union, and that a committee be formed with the object of striving to carry this idea into a. successful issue." The following were appionted on the committee with power to add:—Messrs. W. J. Heppell, T. Lloyd, F. D. E. George, J Bather, A. S. Pleace, T. J. Tuckfield, W. Thomas (solicitor), M. Watkins, n. M. Richards, T. Roderick, F. W. Caunt, J. B. Arnold, and all local Guardians and District and County Councillors, Mr. Heppell to be the convener, and Mr. W. Thomas the secretary.

Concert at Hirwain. The annual concert in connection with the children of St. Lleurwg's Band of Hope took place on Tuesday, February 27th. A very large audience had gathered in the Victoria Hall to witness the canta- ta entitled, "The Little Old Woman that lived in a Shoe." This musical play formed the first part of the programme, and it proved a treat to all present. The youthful performers knew their work thoroughly, and all of them appeared ease before such a crowd. Great credit is due to the trainers of this juvenile party. This is the third annual cantata performed by them, and let us hope that, it will certainly not be the last. The different characters were undertaken as follows:- The Little Old Woman, Ethel Page. Little Bo Peep, Marianne Neale. Red Riding Hood, Jennet Evans. Marjory Daw, Maggie John. .Jack and Jill, Vincent George and Nellie Shannon. Humpty-Dumpty, Willie James. Jack Horner, A. Cornwall. Tom Tucker, Edward Page. Little Boy Blue, Willie Boynes. Chairman of the Board, Harry James. School Board Officer, Sam Gowen. Members of the Board: Catlierine Jones, Louisa, Masser, Rebeccaih Johnson, Maggie Cox, Willie Rogers, John Boynes, Fred George, and Reg. James. Tom Thumb, Willie Lewis. Prof. Plato Potts, Ernie Gowen. Blue Beard, C. Webber. The Uncles, David John. Old Mother Hubbard, Emily Rogers'. Mother Goose, Dorothy Shannon. The Old Woman of Leeds, Lilian Bishop. The second part of songs and recitations by Arthur Webb, Willie Boynes, Ernie Gowen, Marianne Neale, Norruh Tuckfield. A very pretty skirt dance was executed by Misses Norah and E. Tuckfield, and Miss Rebecoah Johnson contributed a pianoforte solo. Miss A. M. Rhys very ably accompanied through- out the evening. Altogether it was r capital entertainment. The Rev. D. J. Arthur, who had trained the children, acted asi conductor. The stage was pretti- ly decorated, showing signs of labour by willing hands. More performances of this kind would be welcomed by Hirwain people.

Prudential Assuranc Co. A SUCCESSFUL YEAR. It will be seen by the annual report of the Prudential Assurance Company, which appears in this week's issue, that this great company has recorded marvel- lous progress in both branches, for the year 1905. The funds exceed X59,000,000, and though its work is confined to the United Kingdom, with a population of about 42,000,000, the policies now in force reach the enormous total of nearly 17,000 000. Tn the Industrial Branch (Adult Tables), policies are entitled to full bene- fit after six calendar months, and from the first of March the sum assured is in- creased by 2per cent. In the Ordin- ary Branch the Bonus is declared annu- ally. There is a large variety of tables with -a favourable rate of premiums. In- tending assurers will do well to consult the Superintendent or ono of his assist- ants.

Refuge Assurance Co., Ld. Annual Meeting, 1905. The Aberdare and Mountain Ash Staffs of the Refuge Assurance Co. held their annual meeting at Miller's Restau- rant on Friday, preceded by a splendid dinner served by Mr Miller. The meet- ing was presided over by the Aberdare superintendent, Mr Daniel Jones, sup- ported by the following South Wales superintendents :—Mr R. Castle, Ponty- pridd Mr W. Perrott, Neath; Mr J. Holland, Merthyr and Mr A. Lewis, Mountain Ash. In the course of his address Mr Jones remarked upon the unavoidable absence of their esteemed inspector, Mr W. Bell. He proposed, and Mr R. Castle seconded, a vote of sympathy with him in his illness. Mr \V. Perrott spoke mainly on the Ordinary Branch, touching its main advantages. Mr T. J. Evans (assistant superintendent Mountain Ash District), read a good paper on Conducting an Agency," fol- lowed by a paper by Mr Evan Jones (assistant superintendent Aberdare Dis- trict), giving some splendid hints on "The Art of Canvassing." Mr R. Castle gave his Treatise on Fishing," which was full of humour, interest and practical instruction. Mr J. Holland spoke in his usual cheery way, stimula- ting all to work at their best. He said that the lefuge had the best paying and the widest range of tables for inves- tors that had ever been brought before the public. Some of the results of the Company's and Districts' work was then given, Mr Jones said that the X2,000,000 Premium Income bad been reached and exceeded by the Company. The increase in Aberdare District alone since Mr Jones came to this district has been very great. The total amount collected in 1898 in both branches was dB2,538, while for the year 1905 they reached X-8,760, The claims paid in this district last year amounted to £ 2,627. There was not a single claim disputed. Mr A. Lewis gave some very interes- ting facts concerning the Ordinary Branch. The speeches and papers were interspersed with songs and recitations, which were well rendered. The prizes offered for best results during 1905 were won as follows :— Aberdare. Supt. Daniel Jones's prizes for best results in Industrial Branch, Mr J. Watts. For best results in Ordinrry Branch, Mr J. Jones also by Messrs IV. R. Winston and T. G. Lee. e oURS Asst. W. J. E\ans's prizes were won by Messrs J. Watts (2), and W. J. Watts. Asst. Supt. E. Jones's prizes by Messrs J. Jenkins. J. Jones, T. G. Lee and W. R. Winston. Mountain. Ash District. Mr A. Lewis's prizes, Messrs II. W. Card (2), P. Stone, D. Evans, W. Thomas and E. Rowlands. Asst. Supt. T. J. Evans's prizes, won by Mr F. Stone (2).

Struck by a Post. FATA LIT V AT NAVIGATION COLLIERY. On Monday last a fatal accident oc- cllrred to Mr. William Davies, 27, Dover- street, Mountain. Ash, while working in the 6-i't. seam at the Navigation Colliery. It seems that a piece of coal fell, and knocked a post out, which struck deceased on the. temple, rendering" him uncon- scious. First aid was given by Messrs. Tudor Davies, Seth Smi,th, and other officials. He was attended at the pit top by Dr. Williams, and way then taken to the Cottage Hopital, but- never re- gained consciousness, and died at five o'clock on Tuesday morning. His mother was solely dependent upon him for a liv- ing. Deceased was a Mingle man, and 4G years of age. A .strange concidence is that his father was killed at the same colliery 21 years to last November. The son's funeral will take place on Saturday ivext. at 3.30 p.m., for Mountain Ash Cemetery.

The Theatres. "CINDERELLA" AND "RED RIDING HOOD." Aberdare and Mountain Ash are this week visited by Pantomime Companies, and the crowded houses fully testify to the great favour in which Pantomime- productions are held by the public. The New Theatre was crowded to its utmost capacity on Monday might, and the aud- ience heartily applauded the various turns. Cinderella's song, HI wouldn't leave my wooden hut for you," is a great favourite. At the close a very gorgeous transformation scene is displayed. t! "Little Red Riding Hood," a's presented hy Messrs. CarJton. and Duckworth, was well worth witnessing, and there were good houses on, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evenings at the Public Insti- tute, Mountain Ash. "SAINTS AND SINNERS." Next week Miss Elaine Verner's Com- pany has been epeciallv engaged. The company includes Mr. Harding Thomas, the celebrated Welsh actor, who, in "Saints and Sinners" adopts the role of Jacob Fletcher, the Nonconformist min- ister. It will be remembered that in Aberdare a few weeks ago in Mr Harding Thomas' faithful portrayal of the perse- cuted pastor at the close, of the ves- try scene, the audience broke out to sing "Aberystwyth." The last three nights the company play "The Middleman.'

Railway Fatalities. KILLED ON THE DAIUiJ LINE. A man, whose name was given as Joseph Finn. residing -at 5, Woodland- terrace, Aberaman, was late on Tuesday night knocked) down by a. motor-car on the Dare branch of the G.W.R., near Godre- aman Halt, situate between Aberaman and Cwmaman. The unfortunate man, who was apparently a trespasser, was brought by the oar to Aberdare, and con- veyed to the Cottage Hospital, where it was found that in addition, to the loss of an arm, lie had sustained a severe cut on the head. He died soon after midnight. BRAKESMAN CRUSHED TO DEATH. A brakesman; employed; by the T.V.R. was crushed to death between a motor- coach and a post at the Aberdare loco- motive shed just before 2 o'clock oil Wed- nesday afternoon. Deceased, whose name is Thomas Abbott, 44, Glan-road, Gad- lys, Aberdare,, only started working for the company am Tuesday.

The Salvation Army, ABERDARE. SATURDAY, SUNDAY & MONDAY, March 10, 11 d- 12. 190G. VISIT OF COLONEL AND MRS. EDWARD WRIGHT Provisional Commanders for the Army's operations in the West of .England and Wales assisted by Staff-Capt. and Mrs DEANS (Divisional Officers), and Pentime Brass Band. All TEMPERANCE LODGES are requested to meet at 7 p.m. on Saturday at the T. V.B. Station, whence a parade will be made to SILOA CHAPEL, where an Anti-Drink Demonstration will be held. SUBJEC-R The Salvation Army and the Drink Question." Chairman, W. Wilcox, Esq. SUNDAY all day in the MARKET HALL. 11 a.m., Holiness, its Power & Worth." 3 p.m., the Colonel will give his interest- ing Lecture, entitled, "40 Years' Salvation Chairman, R. H. Miles, Esq. 6.30 p.m., Salvation's Power." Monday at 8 p.m., in BETHANIA METHODIST CHAPEL, the Colonel will give his Up-to-date LECTURE on- "JAPAN." Chairman, J. H. Powell, Esq. The Meetings will be supported by some of the most prominent ladies alfd gentlemen in Aberdare. Court Roomf Aberdare. Short aqd Important flotice. Mr. James H. James (Of the Firm of Morgan & James) has been instructed To Sell by Public Auction ON Thursday, March 8, 1906 THE FOLLOWING- SEW & SECOND It,kNI) FURNITURE CONSISTING OF- Dining and Drawing Room Suites; Bedroom buites m Satin Walnut and Oak Chippeo- dale Cabinets; Sideboards; Bookcases; Overmantles; Brass and Iron Bedsteads; Feather and Milpuff Beds; Wire Mat- tresses; Washing Stands and Dressing Tables; Chests of Drawers; Walnut Hall- stands; Kitchen Tables; Kitchen Chairs- Arm Chairs; Octagonal Tables Folding Tables; Sewing Machine, by Bradbury; Brass Curbs aid, Fire Brasses; American Organ, by Bell, 7 stops, in good condition Large Quantity of Valuable Books Centre Dining Seat, in 3 portions; Pictures; Quantity of Kitchen Utensils Roll Top Desk; Mahogany Office Table; Desk- Small Round Table a Magnificent Piano. Goods on view Morning of Sale 10-12. Sale to commence at 2.30. For further particulars apply to the Auc- tioneer at his Offices, l, Weatheral Street, Aberdare. Court Room, Aberdare. Mr. James H. James I' (Of the firm of Morgan & James) has been instructed to Sell by Public Auction On Friday, March 9, 1906 A LARGE CONSIGNMENT OF Plants & Trees Plants on vieiu on Morning of Sale from 10 to 12. Sale to commence at 2.30 o'clock. For further particulars apply to the Auctioneer at his Offices, 1, WEATHEKAL STREET, ABERDARE. Look Out For the GRAND PERFORMANCE of the beautiful Cantata- Shepherd of Souls' and Miscellaneous Concept by Duffryn Street Chapel United Choir (120 VOICES), at the WORKMEN'S INSTITUTE, Tuesday, March 20th, AT 8 P.M. ARTISTES- Miss LYDIA GRIFFITHS, London* Miss KENDRY, Penrhiwceiber; Mr. D. CYNON EVANS and Mr. G. T. LLEWELLYN, Port Talbot. Special Engagement of Mr. J. Arkite Phillips' Orchestra (Conductor, Mr. W. BADHAM.) Reserved Sents, 2/ Second Seats, 1/6; Back Seats, 1/ Proceeds in aid of Duffryn St. Chanel Building Fund. I Printed and Published at their Print- ing Works, Market Buildings, Market Street, Aberdare, in the County of Gl. morgan, by the proprietors, W. Pugh. and J. L. Rowlands.

Mountain Ash Education I Committee. On Tuesday, Mr. J. Powell in the chair. The other members present were Mrs. Owen Jones, J. P. Davies, W. Davies, E. T. Williams, Hugh Price, W. Fenwick, J. Charles, E. V. Tidman, W- Griffiths, W. S. Davies, D. Rogers, Capt. F. N. Gray, Bruce Jones, and Thomas Jones, with Mr A. Morgan (director), Mr. H. P. Linton (clerk), and Mr. F. Stock (accountant). PROSECUTING PARENTS. A NEW ARRANGEMENT.—1CENSUS TO BE TAKEN. The Chairman referred to the dis- cussion they had had at the last meeting concerning the prosecution list. It would be remembered that two names were struck out so as to make enquiries as to whether illness had been the cause of their non-attendance. The Director had made enquiries, and he now said that he had visited the parents, and also. the doc- tor. As a result, he recommended that the children—Murphy and Driscoll-be not prosecuted this time. Mr. E. T. Williams proposed, and Mr. R. Parsons seconded, that the Director s recommendation be adopted. Capt. Gray asked how was it that the two children had been reported if they had been ill. ,1. The Director thought that the attend- ance officer had probably taken the chil- dren's attendances previous to December, 1905, when they were first instructed to pay any attention to the B.C. School, when the two children in question at- tended. .y_ Mr D. Rogei'9 asked what the usual practice—did the attendance ofncers visit the houses of parents whose children neglected school? d- The Chairman) replied that the attend- ance officers in the first place received a list of absentees from head teachers. They would then probably visit the chil- dren's homes. Mr Rogers thought that some method ou^ht to be adopted to discover children newlv moved to the district, and who Heyer attended school. In these cases .he attendance officers could not obtain the names from the school registers. He knew of two children who had come to live ini this district some weeks ago, and who had not yet commenced attending school. i. Mr. E. T. Williams suggested that a periodical census be taken of the children who were of school age. He believed that such a census should be at once taken, and he would move that that be done. Mr. J. P. Davies seconded. The Director thought that that would be inflicting a great deal of work on the attendance officers without securing the desired end. Mr. Williams said that the old Board 'had carried ouf that scheme, and had found it very satisfactory. The motion that a, census be taken was carried, and also another motion that the attendance officers be instructed to make a house-to-house visitation to obtain the census. Mr. R. Parsons moved further that the attendance officers be directed to consult the doctor regarding --ases of alleged ill- ness. KING'S SCHOLARSHIP EXAM. The Glamorgan County Council re- ported the result of the above exam., which was as follows: Si-ir-eessful-m" 25; women, 45; unsuccessful—men, 14; women, 30. ALLOWANCES. Communications from Dr. James, chief education official for the County, were received. One stated that the County were granting 15s. per session to proba- tioner teachers for books. Another com- munication stated that the probationers' season tickets would be paid for by the County. Mr. W. Griffiths: They are becoming generous all at oniCe. Mr. W. S. Davies: They must be afraid of the new Education Bill. ROMAN CATHOLIC SCHOOL. The Managers of the abote school had met on the 5th inst., and the minutes were read by the Director. Rev. H. Irvine was in the chair, and the other managers present were Father O'Reilly, Mr. M. Phelan, and Councillor E. T. Williams. It was proposed by Father O'Reilly, seconded by Mr. M. Phelan, that the Education Committee be asked to pay the cleaner of the R.C. School at the same rate as cleaners in Council Schools were paid. The managers further asked the committee to pay the R.C. teachers ac- cording to the same rate as teachers in other schools, and that the annual incre- ments foe given as from the appointed. cla.y. The managers further recommend- ed that an uncertificated teacher be ap- pointed in the place of Miss Kate Walsh, who had resigned. Mr. E. T. Williams moved that the re- port be adopted, but Mr. Rogers believed it would be safer to refer the report to a committee, and this was done. COMPULSORY MILITARY TRAINING. A communication was read from the Secretary of a Peace Society advising the committee not to adopt compulsory mili- tary training at the schools. The society had no objection to ordinary physical training, but it believed that they should not go so far as to introduce compulsory military training, which was not in vogue even in the countries which had adopted conscription. Capt. F. N. Gray moved, and Mr. Bruce Jones seconded, that the communication lie on the table. This was adopted. CONFERENCES. The Director gave a report of the Lon- don Confererce convened by West Ham Town Council, at which the chairman and himself were present. The report stated that a deputation had been ap- pointed to interview the Right Hon. A. Birrell regarding the unequal incidence of the Education Rate. The report was adopted The Chairman and Mr. D. Rogers were selected to attend the meeting of the Na- tional Council for Wales to be held at Cardiff on the 16th inst. APPLICATIONS. Applications for increase of salary were received from Miss Minnie Harries, Pen- geulan School, and Misa Edith Price, Ynvsboeth, inasmuch as the committee had decided to take into consideration past services under other Education Au- thorities. The Director was instructed to write to them pointing out that the resolution had not been! framed to act retrospective- ly. NEW DARRANLAS SCHOOL. In reply to Mr. W. Davies, the Chair- man said that the Council would shortly proceed with the work of constructing a road to the new Darrenlas School. The cost of same would be borne by the Edu- cation Committee and a local Building Club. AN EISTEDDFOD COMMITTEE'S APPLICATION. The Easter Eisteddfod Committee ap- I plied for permission to sell tickets in the schools to teachers. Mr. J. Charles said he understood that people went to the schools at present to sell things. Mr. Bruce Jones asked if the Eistedd- fod Committee wanted the teachers to sell tickets. The Chairman said he believed, from the letter, that what they wanted was to permit members of the Eisteddfod Com- mittee to visit the schools where they would be most likely to see the teachers in order to sell tickets to them. Mr. Thomas Jones thought it was not advisable to give such permission. Mr. R. Parsons moved that the appli- cation be granted. Mr. Bruce Jones proposed that it be not granted. Let the committee find the teachers elsewhere if they wanted to sell tickets to them. Mr. E. T. Williams observed that the practice of visiting schools for the pur- pose of selling some things was too gen- eral already. It had come to his know ledge some time ago that a canvassing agent plied the teachers while in school. He (Mr. Williams) had taken steps to put a stop to that kind of thing at Pen- rhiweeiber. The Education Committee placed teachers in schools to teach chil- dren and not for the convenience of can- vassing agents or anybody else. These people should find the teachers at home or anywhere except in. school during school hours. If the Education Com- mittee granted such permission in. this instance, the teachers might think that they expected them (the teachers) to buy tickets. The Chairman remarked that he was as anxious as anyone to make the Eistedd- fod successful, but he was not in favour of teachers being interfered with in this manner during school hours. Mr. R. Parsons then withdrew his motion, and Mr. Bruce Jones' proposal that the request be not granted, was passed. AN APPEAL Joseph Williams, whose two children had been fined 35s. for damaging school buildings, sent in a letter asking to be re- lieved of part of the payment, inasmuch as he was in a serious predicament, being a collier and having a large family to maintain. Capt. F. N. Gray was opposed to reduce the payment. The ratepayers had to suffer for these damages that were done to their schools, so when the culprits were caught he believed they should suffer for it. Mr. D. Rogers agreed. The committee should not go behind the magistrates. It was no earthly good taking a case to the Court if they were going' to set the judg- ment aside. Mr. E. T. Williams said he had every sympathy with this man, but it would not be wise to go behind the magistrates. Mr. Bruce Jones moved, and Mr. W. Griffiths seconded, that a reply be for- warded that the committee could not grant the request. "THOSE TERRIBLE INSTRUMENTS." LADIES' HATPINS. The Director read out the number of times their scholars had absented them- selves during the past month at the Pupil Teachers' Centre. One young lady had been absent several days. and Mr. A. Morgan said that the reason was that she had been injured by "one of those terrible instruments that ladies wear in their hats." (Laughter.) COMPLIMENT TO THE ACCOUNTANT. Mr. F. Stock, the accountant, sub- mitted a number of recommendations with the view of obtaining grants due i from the Board of Education by the 30th March. There were grants due to the local Education Authority in respect of the R.C. School, and the committee had not yet received a final settlement of the annual fee grant due in respect of the Penrhiwceiber School. These recommendations having been adopted, Mr. E. T. Williams observed: I think we should make Mr Stock assistant secre- tary to Mr. A. Birrell, president of the Board of Education. Mr. J. Charles: Better make Mr. Birrell assistant secretary to Mr. Stock. (Laughter.) Mr. W. S. Davies: Suppose we add that "to the other recommendations, then. Chairman: I am sure that Mr. Birrell himself is not a harder or more con- scientious worker. (Hear, hear.) EXPLANATION WANTED. A Mr. Nicholas from Oakland-street appeared before the committee asking for an explanation as to why he had been summoned for neglecting to send his child to school after having sent in a medical certificate to the teacher. The Director was asked to make en- quiries. SCRIPTURE EXAMS. It was decided to spend < £ 10 on books to be given as prizes to those who had passed the Scripture examination. This would be in addition to what the Reli- gious Tract Society is giving. Rev. E. V. Tidman believed that the books generally distributed were unsuit- able and far above the ordinary scholar. Mr. E. T. Williams, Mr. J. Charles, and Rev. E. V. Tidman were then ap- pointed to select suitable books. RESIDENT CARETAKERS AT SCHOOLS. Mr. E. T. Williams had the following notice of motion on the agenda: "That the committee consider the question of employing resident caretakers at some of our schools." "I think," observed Mr Williams, "that the Chairman ought to move this." Mr. Powell: No, that would be too per- sonal, for according to the Stipendiary I am to be the caretaker. (Laughter.) In moving the above resolution, Mr. Williams said that a lot of unnecessary damage was being done to the schools. Taking Penrhiwceiber for instance, those schools had been erected in such a posi- tion that one caretaker would do to look after them all. There was land there ready which would be suitable to build on. The same applied to Caegarw and Abercynon. He would suggest that a committee be appointed to go into the matter. He really believed that some- thing ought to be done in the direction indicated. In Penrhiwceiber alone re- pairs had cost them X200. That was about the price of a house. Mr. J. Charles seconded, and Mr. W. Davies supported, and the motion was agreed to. The committee to consider this question consist of one from each ward, viz., Messrs. J. Charles, J. P. Davies, E. V. Tidman, W. S. Davies, Bruce Jones, and D. Rogers, with Mr. E. T. Williams. APPOINTMENTS. D. Thos, Davies, Penrhiwceiber, Annie Ellen Jones, and Mary A. Walters, who are now at college, were appointed to positions under the committee to start after the summer (holidays. Mrs. Jones proposed that those teach- ers who had been appointed last year to start after the holidays be paid for a fortnight in lieu of the August holidays. Mrs. Jones added that this had invar- iably been done in previous years, and it was only right that last years teachers should be treated likewise. Mr. J. P. Davies seconded. The members strongly objected to this proposal, and after some discussion Mrs. Jones withdrew it. ASSISTANT ARCHITECT. that they recommended the committe, on the motion, of Capt. Gray, seconded by Mr. E. T. Williams, to appoint a quali- fied assistant in the architect's depart- ment. The report was adopted.