The Aberdare Leader

Abernant. BETHEL.—Wednesday evening, Sept. 25th, saw the much looked for opening meeting of the Young People's Mutual Improvement Society pertainiiag to the above church. There was a strong mus- ter of enthusiasts and a splendid meet- ing. The chair was taken by the Rev. G. Walters. Mr. James Thomas began the meeting with a short divine service. Then the President, Rev. J. Mills (pastor of the church), addressed the meeting. In a short but masterful address he pointed out the necessity for proving the infalli- bility of that proverb, Unity is Strength." He went on to say that as the work of the church will devolve upon the rising generation, they should there- fore early in their lives prepare them- selves fittingly for their allotted work. Emphatically did he state that this was an opportunity a which should be taken at the flood." Continuing, he made it obvious that certainly such a society would tend to prevent narrow-minded- ness, teach ready speech, foster bold- ness in public speaking, causing shyness to vanish, and in short make a full, ready, and exact man." One of the old- est members of the church, Mr. William Thomas, then in a very homely way feel- ingly compared, or rather contrasted the blessings of present day education, with the wilful neglect" of his -lav. He therefore exhorted them to utili&e the chances given by this newly-lormed society. The following persons also took part: Messrs. Benj. Samuel, Tobias Wil- liams, Henry Rees, Miss Eisther Morris, and the secretary. Many members were enrolled at the close of the meeting.

Cwmbach. FAREWELL SERMON.—On Sunday last the Rev. D. M. Davies brought to, a close a period of nineteen years' minis- try at Bryn Seion Congregatioal Church. Air. Davies has been appointed to the fluperintendency of the book-room estab- lished in connection with the Congrega- tional Union at Swansea, and he is to be the recipient of a handsome presentation in the course of three or four weeks' time, before he takes his final departure from the village. On Sunday morning he preached very eloquently from the words And the temple of God was open in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament," etc., Revela- tions ii., 19. In the evening the rev. gen- tleman preached a sermon in memory of two departed members of the church. At the end of the service many hearts were truly sad at the thought that Mr. Davies's ministry among them had closed. SUCCESS.—We are pleased to state that Mr. William Henry Evans, a stud- ent who ha-s been brought up at Bryn Seion Congregational Church, has suc- ceeded in passing the entrance examin- ation to the Presbyterian College at Car- marthen. Mr. Evans was previously employed as an assistant under the Cwm- bach Co operative Society, Ltd., but de- termined to enter the Congregational ministry. He had taken a preparatory course at the Collegiate School, Ponty- pridd, under the headmastership of Mr. Jenkyn Jones, B.A., and the Pontypridd Academy, under the tuition of Mr. Dun- nior Edwards, M.A. His whole course of training, however, was confined to a per- iod of two years, and he passed as one of the eight successful applicants out of twelve. Great credit is also due to the Rev. D. M. Davies, pastor of Bryn Seion, who had given him. material assistance in his studies and in many ottwr ways.

EXPIRATION OF THE SEASON. a. AN N UAL SALE The SPOT for the Greatest Bargains. 1,000 Silk Ties to clear at 3!d. each. 10,000 Silk Ties to clear at 6Jd. each. 2 2 All of the better quality Ties greatly reduced. White Cellular Shirts reduced to 2s. 3d. Straw Hats reduced to Half-price. Special Bargains in FANCY VESTS, SUMMER UNDERCLOTHING, FLANNEL SHIRTS, PYJAMA SUITS, &c., &c. NOTE THE ONLY ADDRESS:- I EMLYN F. MORRIS, The Aberdare Hatter and Hosier, COMMERCIAL STREET. 2Sj

Cwmaman. FUNERAL.—On Monday afternoon the funeral of Mr. John Bowen, 21, Mil- ton-street, took place at the Aberdare Public Cemetery. The deceased was an old inhabitant of the village. He was aged 50. The Rev. W. D. Morris, pastor of Soar C.M. Church, conducted the bur- ial obsequies at the house and graveside. It is a sad circumstance that his only daughter, w.ho was about 11 years of age, died on the day of her father's funeral. The event has enlisted the heartfelt sym- pathies of the neighbours. R.A.O.B.—At the Mount Pleasant Lodge of the above Order held on Thurs- day evening last, a large number of brethren congregated to pay a tribute of appreciation to Bro. William Davies for tho services he has rendered to the above Order. He was presented with a beau- tiful and valuable jewel which bore a suitable inscription, reminiscent of the occasion, and which was enclosed in a pretty case. The presentation was made by Bro. T. B. Pugh, K.O.M., the lodge secretary, who. in an eloquent speech con- gratulated Bro. Davies upon the distinc- tion conferred upon him. Bro. Davies then briefly and suitably responded, and a programme of music, etc., was then gone through. FUNERAL.—On Tuesday afternoon the funeral of Mrs. Sarah Lloyd, Fforch- aman-road, took place at the Abtrdare Public Cemetery. The deceased lady had suffered a lingering illness, which she had borne with Christian fortitude and patience. She was well-liked and highly respected, as could be seen from the large number that attended the funeral. The burial obsequies at the house and graveside were conducted by the Rev. W. D. Morris, pastor of Soar C.M. Church, where she had been a faithful member. SHEEP DOG TRIALS.—The fifth an- nual sheep dog trials of the above village were held at the' Fforchaman Farm on Monday last. The president was Mr. Herbert Rees, Maesvffynon, and amongst others present were: Major Morgan, Mountain Ash; Messrs. M. Jenkins, The Emporium; George Parr, W. J. Mae- Gilvery, Dr. R. F. Thomas, Cwmaman, and Mr. J. H. Powell. Mr. Richard Grace, Aberdare, acted as steward, and the time-keeper was Mr. Wm. Isaac, Penrhiwceiber. The judges were Messrs Lewis Davies, Brynmelyn, Treharr;s; William Ambrose, Brynhenllysg Farm, Upper Cwmtwrch; and Evan Walters, Penrhiwcaradog Farm, Mountain Ash. In Class 1, open to all comers, there were 32 entrants, and the following were suc- cessful: 1st, Mr. Evan Williams, Hendre Farm, Pontypridd, "Moss"; 2nd, Mr. Wm. Kingsbury, Fforchaman Farm, Cwmaman, "Teb"; 3rd, Mr. Edward Bennett, Forest Ranger, Cray, "Young Bonnie"; 4th, Mr. D. M. Jones, Nanty- rr oel, Tredegar, U Rhoda. 5th, Mr. Peter Johnson, Bwllfa Farm, Cwmaman, "Rock." In Class 2, open to dogs that had not won a first prize anywhere prev- iously, there were also 32 entrants, and the result in this section was as follows. 1st, Mr. Robert Phillips. Cefn-Callwyn Farm, Pontllanfraith, "Clyde"; 2nd, Mr. Hy. Lloyd, Glanamman, "Toby"; 3rd, Mr. Henry Williams, Ffaldau Farm, Ferndale, "Lady"; 4th, Mr. Dan Howells, Dduallt Far .n, Llanwonno, "Boy"; 5th, Mr. Wm. Kingsbury, Fforchaman Farm, Cwmaman, "Don." There ww also a special class, open to novice dogs within a radius of five miles of Cwmaman, in which nine entries were received. The first prize was won by Mr. William Kingsbury, Fiorchaman Farm, with Don." The Second prise by Mr Kingsbury with "Teh." The third prize by Mr. Henry Williams, Ffaldau, with "Lady." And the fourth prize by Mr. Dan Hcwells, LlanWonno, with Boy." The trials proved to be quite a success in every respect. Mr J. Banford, Mardy, was chairman of committee; Mr. John James, Aberaman Farm, treasurer, and Messrs. A. Parr and W. Kingsbury secretaries.

Abercwmboi. BETHESDA.—On Sunday and Monday last the anniversary services in connec- tion with the above Welsh Baptist Church were held, when the popular poet-preaohers, Gwili and Trebor Aled, occupied the pulpit. On Sunday morn- ing Gwili preached a powerful sermon upon the words, They said unto him, Rabbi, where dwellest thou? He saith v.r,-to them, Come and see," etc., John i., 39. In the afternoon Trebor Aled preached from the words, When Jesus came into the coast of Caesarea Phillippi, he asked his disciples, saying. Whom do n'en say that I, the Son of Man, am?" He dwelt upon this topic in a highly in- teresting manner, which left a good im- pression upon the crowded congregation. The services were marked by a. spirit of devotion and fervour.

Mountain Ash. DISGUSTED ONE. "You told me your new suit was to be made at Tom Davies's Shop. Shall not meet you again until you go and order a decent suit there/' The address is: Commercial- street, Mountain Ash. MALE VOICE PARTY SUCCESS.—At the Penygraig Eisteddfod last Monday, Mr. Hugh Ellis' United Male Voice Party was successful in winning first prize, value £20, and a silver-mounted baton for the conductor. This is Mr. Ellis' second distinct success, the first one being at the Mountain Ash Christmas E;stedd- fod. Them were five other choirs com- peting at Penygraig, and the test p:eoo was, "Spartan Heroes." BETHANIA.—At the Welsh Congrega- tional Chapel last Sunday the annual preaching services were held morning, afternoon, and night. Large congrega- tions assembled, and powerful sermons were delivered by Revs. D. Adams, B.A., Liverpool; W. J. Nicholson, Portmadoc; and J. Edryd Jones, Cilfynydd. The afternoon and evening services on Sun- day were packed to overflowing. The spontaneous collections made on these oc- casions averaged the large sum of XIOO, although two large branch churches have recently been started. The congregation- al singing was popular and attractive, conducted by Mr. T. Glyndwr Richards. Miss M. Richards, Allen-street, was the organist, and Mr. J. Christopher the leader of the band. All the services were presided over by the pastor, the Rev. Owen Jones. FUNERAL.—Last Saturday afternoon the mortal remains of Miss Eiiiabeth Ann Williams, 2, Miskin-terrace, were interred at Caegarw Cemetery. The de- ceased lady was a sister of Mrs. Tom James, Commercial-street, and was only 82 years of age. The mourners were: Mrs. Margaret Williams (mother), Mr. John Williams (brother). Miss Annie Williams (sister), Mr. Wm. Williams (uncle), Mr. and Mrs. Tom James; Mr. and Mrs Ted Cribb and family, and Miss Mary Shipton. Beautiful wreaths were sent from "Mother, John, and Annie." Mr. and Mrs. Tom James; Girls' Friend- ly Society; Mrs. Richards, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Thomas (Arnold-street), Mrs. Polly Edwards and family; Mr. Tom and Miss Branch, and Mr. and Mrs. Ted Cribb; the Members of St. Teilo's Choir: Mrs. Morris (Penrhiwceiber-road). The fun- eral service was conducted by the Rev. D. E. Roberts, M.A. At the house the assembled friends sang "Our blest Re- deemer 'ere he breathed," and at the graveside, "Abide with me." The fun- eral arrangements were in the hands of Mr. Frank Mills.

Penrhlwcelber. IF YOU CAN'T CALL, send, and your wants shall be supplied. First-class Suits built on you according to the latest models. Tom Davies, Commercial-street, Mountain Ash WINNING NUMBERS of John Wm. Jcnes' Prize Drawing:—780; 350; 999; 470; 459; 911; 3; 151; 826; 745; 462; 119. WEDDING.—Last Monday morning, at St. Winifred's Church, a very pretty wedding took place. The contracting paitiee were Mr. Fred Thorne, Aber- cynon, and Miss Bertha Robinson, Chep- stow. Mi-s Nellie Thorne acted as brides- maid, and Mr. Charles Robinson as best man. The bride was given away by her brother, Mr Chas. Robinson. There were also present at the church Mrs. Phillips, Newport, and Mr. Llewelyn Hughes, Penrhiwceiber. The officiating clergyman was the Rev. F. Dale Chap- man. The bride was charmingly attired in a cream voile dress with hat of cream silk to match, and carried a handsome bouquet of cream roses and asparagus fern. The bridesmaid was also hand- somely dressed in cream cloth. A large number of guests sat down to the wed- dim breakfast, and the newly married paj f were toasted with a happy and suc- cess: il life. The presents were remark- ably handsome, and totalled upwards of 70.

Abercynon Subway. LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD INQUIRY. ———— At the Council Offices, Mountain Ash, last Wednesday morning, Mr. Ii. Shel- ford Bidwell, M.Inst.C.E., representing the Local Government Board, held an in- quiry concerning the application of the Iccal authorities for power to borrow the sum of £ 2,225 for constructing a new sub-way at Abercynon, and also a further sum of JB164 for improving the approach thereto. There were present Councillors Bruce Jones, T. W. Jones, and W. Fen- wick; Messrs J. Sutherland, William Evans (Bristol House), J. J. Jones (Pont- cjnon), H. P. Linton (clerk to Council). F. Stock (accountant), D. Price, W. G. Thomas (surveyor). D. T. Evans (rate collector). Mr. Linton gave particulars of area population and assessment, and also an interesting history of the old bridge, which was only intended as a cattle drive to the river. The agreement denotes that the Taff Vale Railway Co. takes charge of the new bridge, and th-i local authority the repairing of the road. The level crossing was only used by the public as an a-et of grace <*& the part of the company, except for carts and agri- cultural produce. Mr. W. G. Thomas (surveyor) presented his report of the method of construction and dimensions which are as follows:—Height, 11 feet; length, 96 feet; width, 24 feet. The steepest gradient will be 1 in 8.

Fatality at Cwmpennai* Colliery. At the Mountain Ash Police Station on Wednesday morning Mr. R. J. Rhys (dis- trict coroner) held an inquiry concerning the death of Wm. Henry Prosser. Thomas Prosser stated that his brother was 23 years of age. John Jones stated that Prosser was in his employ. They reached the stall about 9 o'clock on Monday night. The fall was from the roof, on the right side of the road, looking towards the face, and occurred only a few minutes after their arrival. Witness thought the stone would be from 30 cwts. to 2 tons. There were two props about 5 feet apart, and the stone fell between them, without discharging either. He had tried the place after the fireman had been there. John Evans, timberman, deposed that he was acting as fireman on the night in question. He examined Jones's place about 7.20. He did not think the stone weighed more than 12 to 14 cwts. Mr. J. Powell, M.E., colliery manager, explained the plans of the working, and in answer to a question by the Mining Inspector, stated that the two poste. al- ready mentioned were further apart than was allowed by the rules. It was quite possible that had another post been under where the stone was, it would have prevented. its fall. The jury .returned a verdict of Acci- dental deatnV"

"Christ and Socialism.19 On Tuesday evening last the Saron (Aberaman) Mutual Improvement Society commenced its season, when the Rev. A. Penry Evans, of Porth, delivered a lec- ture upon "Christ and Socialism." The attendance was quite large, and a most encouraging feature of the meeting was the number of young people present. The rev. gentleman remarked that there were two ways of looking upon the social pro- blems of the day. One wa- by proceed- ing from Socialism to Christ, but he would prefer the method of countenanc- ing Christ first of all, and then proceed towards Socialism. Christ had given to Socialism five things which it could never have obtained of ltselT. He had given men—i.e., men actuated by noble motives, and inspired by the spiritual aid of God. He had given a spirit of brc- therhood in which all men were on the t same level. This could not be possible in a material system, for a man who led a life of rectitude could not be brought to feel that he was a brother to a man who persisted in wallowing in drink and filth and misery. Christ had also given to men motives for being thankful for the sacrifice he had made, and also gave them power to go through all the vicissi- ades and the trials of this world The rev. gentleman contrasted General Booth with any of the Socialist leaders of the present day, and compared Muller with Napoleon, whose personal traits weie all noticeable, whereas Muller's success lay in his confidence in God. He also asked what Socialist had endured and sacri- ficed so much for his creed as Paul had done for Christ? The great demand was for reality, and if Socialists only entered the church and exercised the power of prayer, they would find that social pro- blems could be effectively dealt with.

Printing of every description done neatly and promptly at the U Leader" Office. Coloured work a speciality.

Services for Sunday Next. AB ERN A CLE Cong. Church. JL Aberdare. Services at 11 and 6. Sunday School at 2.30. Preacher, Rev, J. M. Jones, M.A., (pastor.) Trinity Church Aberdare. qarvest Thanksgiving Services. Next Sunday, Oct. 6th. 1907. Preacher: Rev. J. Lewis Jenkins Pastor. Special Sermon at 11. a.m. Sunday School at 2.30, Evening Service 6. qighland Place Unitarian Church, Monk Street, Aberdare. HARVEST FESTIVAL Sunday October Oth. Preacher, Hev. J. C. Street, Shrewsbury. Preaching Services at n and 6 U::ilc"'l Service at 2.30. =-

Penderyn. DEATH.—On Thursday evening Mr. Evan Harris, Heol Las, died at the age of 61 years. The deceased wa,s a well- known farmer, and was recognised as an authority on horse breeding. For many yeartt he had acted as overseer of the Parish, and win also a member of the .Patish Council. The deceased was a IOtaunch Liberal and Nonconformist. He was a deacon at Soar Congregational Church, and he will be sorely missed at the little church. where he was a most devoted worker. The greatest sympathy is extended to the family in their sad bereavement. The funeral took place on Tuesday, the interment being at Pen- deryn Churchyard, the Revs. J. Grawys Jones, W. S. Davies, and Ll. Jenkins, Rector of Penderyn, officiating The ttiourners were Mr. L. Harris (brother), Mrs. Harris (daughter-in-law), Mr. Howell Harris (brother), Mr. J. Harris (brother), Mrs. Davies (sister). Mr. Ed- mund Harris, Mr. Richard Harris, and John Harris (sons), and Mrs. Evans £ nd Mrs. Jones (daughters). Wreaths had been sent by Messrs. W. N. Ogbed, Plas Dinas; J. Comley, Llwydcoed; P. Davies, Lampeter; and W. Davies and Davies, Hirwain.

Hirwain. THANKSGIVING SERVICES. The harvest thanksgiving services of Bethel ^hapel (C.M.) were held 0x1 Wednesday Zoning, and Thursday afternoon and J^ening in the form of prayer meetings. "\e meetings were well attended, and presided over by the Rev. W. J. < Williams, pastor. The singing was under the direction of Mr. W. E. Davies, news- agent. THE QUARTERLY MEETING of Nebo Sunday School was held on Sun- day afternoon, under the presidency of Mr- Thomas Matthias, superintendent. J-he meeting was opened by Mr. Edward It-enry. after which the Band of Hope, loder the leadership of Mr Daniel Jones, rendered a beautiful hymn. An excel- lent programme had been arranged by r. Daniel Jones, Merthyr-road. The following very ably contributed recita- Master Jeffrey Evans, Misses May soiith, Keziah Thomas, Ceinwen Evans, atild Mr. J. T. Davies, F.T.S.C. Solos Wel-P rendered by Misses Eimig Williams, father Jones, Master J. J. Dymond, and rjr. W. G. Jenkins. Recitation of "Yr ^hiyn Olat'" by Mrs. R. A. Coles, the t 8(,.10 being taken by Mr. Tom Morgan. pianoforte solo by Miss Emig Williams. rjhe juveniles recited some chapters from "Temperance Catechism," the ques- tions being put by the chairman. A Quartette was rendered by Mr. Daniel ''(tries and friends, followed by a chorus Py the Band of Hope, and another quar- by Messrs. D. Jones, W. G. Jenkins, Jjissea M. A. Jones and Eisther Jones. Mary Davies, A.L.C.M., very ably Itûcompaniecl.

Trecynon. September 24th, at Ynys- House, Treherbert, whither he had $>]_ Recently removed from the Mount •IcH^'Tit Hotel, Trecynon, Mr. Robert JQ. passed away at the age of 59. Mr W*R „was the father of Mrs. Hughes, « White Lion, Gadlvs, and Mr. liiir • ones- who is well-known in sport- °r"'cl(,s. While in Trecynon the late His,' es was a member of Noddfa Bap- v/'hurch. The interment took place ^hdav, the place of interment being y Cemetery. f&t( P AG AN'S.eOn Sunday harvest t*1 th servioe,s were held at this church. moining the Rev. R. Jones, Vicar, s 6 service. Helmore's Te Deum llhg. Preceding the eermon the hymn, "They come, God's messengers of love," was sung to the tune, Ware ham." Mr. W Hughes presided at the organ. Tho preacher was the Rev. W. Ogwen Davies, Vicar of Cray, Brecon- shire, who took as his text, Gen. 35, 1, U And God said unto Jacob, Arise, go up to Bethel, and dwell there, a.nd make there an altar unto God that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau, thy brother." Mr. Davies remarked that God's promise as recorded in the text involved, first divine protec- tion, secondly divine sustenance, and thirdly divine guidance. When leaving home, Jacob vowed that if God would protect, sustain, and guide him in a strange land he would upon his return go forthwith to Bethel, and build an altar to the God who had remembered him. Jacob, the destitute fugitive, prospered and became a rich man, but he did not go to Bethel to fulfil his vow, but settled quietly in a fair valley. God came to him and rebuked him sharply for the n,on-ful:filment of his pledge. To many people religion was merely an umbrella, something to protect them in a storm. In fine. weather it was an encumbrance. We were far more ready to make suppli- cations at the beginning of the year than to give thanks at the close. If we hon- estly tried to count our blessings, what a surge of praise to God there would be! What accounted for our forgetfulness of God's blessings? Was it not the un- broken continuity in the gifts that made us look upon them as a matter of course. Besides, Jacob had forgotten his debt to God because he had been taken up by his idols. If we. want to see God we must surrender our idols. We should come in penitence, laying our broken vows at his feet. Then the evening of life would be illumined by the presence of the one who said, "I will never leave thee nor for- flake thee." In the midst of wordly pur- suits we were apt to forget God's altar. The best harvest thanksgiving we could render to God was to offer ourselves as sacrifices unto him.—The sacred edifice had been decorated elaborately and prettly with the choicest produce of field and garden. OBITUARY.—On September 11th the interment of Miss Bronwen Jamas, the beloved daughter of Mr. Lewis James, 57, Cemetery-roal, took place at the Aber- dare Cemetery. The Rev. W. Cynog \\illiams. Heolyfelin, of which church Miss James was a member, and the Rev. J. James, Cwmbach, officiated at the house and graveside. The service was most impressive. The remark was made at the graveside that the pure and beau- tiful flowers that bedecked her cohin were truly emblematical of deceased's life. She had suffered for months. She had been to Torquay and other resorts in search of health, but eventually came home to die. Miss James had been ex- ceptionally successful in her scholastic career, and had intended entering upon a collegiate course. She was an ex- emplary church member and a model Sunday School scholar. Many prizes did she capture in the Scripture examin- ations of the Aissociation, and was suc- cessful more than once in the examin- ations of the Baptist Union, which are open to the whole of Wales. Last Sun- day a memorial service was held at Heolyfelin Baptist Church. The Rev. W. CynoF, Williams preached from the words, The damsel is not dead, but sleepeth." The rev. gentleman made some pertinent and impressive remarks, which were of solace to the bereaved family and edification to the whole con- gregation. He quoted the words, There is no death, what seems so is transition." He preferred Tennyson'3 illustration to that of many of the Welsh poets. It de- picted the soul crossing the bar" to the ocean of a wider lifa. "Death is a beginning, not an end." Miss James's career was not closed; it had simply evolved from a material to a spiritual existence. The education she had re- ceived here was not wasted. It was a preparatory course for a higher sphere where, refined by a spiritual process, her talent would shine the brighter and add lustre to her sanctified personality. Her sweet voice was still, and her busy hands were inactive to our hearing and vision, but Faith whispered that she had but stepped from the visible to the invisible, and Hope assured us of a gloriou3 re- union to come. After the sermon the Dead March was played by Mrs. D. W. Price, Ivy Cottage, the mournful function which was allotted to the new organ at the first service after its in- auguration. "Only good-night, be- loved, not farewell."

Aberdare. NEW OFFICES.—Mr. G. A. Treharne, M.T.M.E., has l-elinguished his offices at Belmont-terrace, Aberaman, and now c&iries on his work at the Eng nepring Chambers, above The Garage, Station- street, Aberdare. ART UNION.-List of Winning Num- ber,, of the Aberdare and District Art Unioit:-I, 858; 2, 599; 3, 1748; 4, 988; 5, 984; 6, 219; 7, 1012; 8, 965 9, 221; 10. 879; 11. 229; 12, 862; 13, 1843; 14, 185. Unless claimed within three days, they will be forfeited.—David S. Jones, John Morgan. Sees. PRESENTATION.—To further mark the departure of Mr. Clayton from the town, the legal profession and the police force presented him with a purse of gold. Mr. Kelly, Canon-street, handed the gift to Mr. Clayton on behalf of the donors. The recipient called at the Police Station and tendered his thanks, remarking that as Police Court Missionary he had al- way, tried to work conscientiously. PERSONAL.—Mrs. Clara E. Slater, of Southport, the largest belt: maker 'n Eng- land, is at present paying a visit to the town, as will be seen from an advertise- ment in another column. This oppor- tunity of consulting her should not be missed by all local sufferers, as the re- lief obtained from Mrs. Slater's treat- ment is known throughout the land. Thousand:* of apparently hopeless cases have been undertaken by Mrs. Slater. and t,h» many hundreds of testimonials she has received is striking evidence of her skill in treating all inward com- plaints from which so many ladies suffer. Aberdare. VOLUNTEERS.—The annual shoot in ecunnection with the Aberdare Detach- ment 3rd V.B. Welsh Regiment took place at the Graig Range on Monday last. There were 96 competitors. Class-firing regulations were strictly observed—seven rounds at 200 and 500 yards. The at- mospheric conditions were such that it was almost impossible to discern the 500 yards target. The officers present were Capt. J. O. Richards, Adjutant, Gapt A. L. Gregor, and Capt. T. E. Malyon. The following are the principal winneno: Cel. Sergt. Inst. Fowler, 50; Corpl. Mose- ley, 49; Pte. E. Davies, 47; Sergt. E. Price, 46; Col. Sergt. T. G. Chivers, 46; L.Corpl. Humphries. 44; Pte. P. J. Geen, 43; Pte. E. Webb, 42; Pte. V. Reynolds, 42; Pte. J. Shoehan, 41. The Band In- stitute Challenge Cup was won by Col.- Sergt.-Inst. Fowler for the best score at the long range. MR. C. F. WALTERS, the well-known Sight-Testing Optician of Swansea, will open his new branch at 49a, Commercial- stieet, Aberdare, on Saturday next, Oct. 5th. No expense has been spared in fitting out the shop, which looks very pretty and inviting. The Sight-Testing Room (which is quite private) is equipped with the most modern instruments krown to science. The business is de- voted entirely to Sight-Testing and Spec- tacle Fitting. Mr. Walters is well known in South Wales, and has received hun- dreds of unsolicited testimonials to h;8 skill in estimating and correcting any errors of refraction. INTERMENT.—The funeral of Mrs. Hughes, Clifton-street, widow of Mr. John Hughes, for many years ass'stant overseer at Aberdare, took place on Mon- day, the interment being in the family vault at Aberdare Cemetery. The ser- vice was conducted by Rev. A. B. Kinsey, B.A., Carmel Baptist Chapel, and the Rev. T. Jones, of Barry. The mourners included Mr. Charles Botting, Rev. W. T. Phillips, Messrs.; W. T. Arnott, A. J. Phillips, J. F. Phillips, Rev. E. T. Davies, Penarth: Rev. R. W. Davies, Mr Gwilym Griffiths, Mr. D. Hughes, Mr. T. Hughes, Mr. John Phillips, Mr. Ings, Mr. J. Prosser, M.A., Mr. Caldicott, Mr. D. P. Davies, J.P., Mr. Griffith Davies, Mr. R Prosser, Bridgend; Mr. Rees hees. Among the ministers present were REvs. W. Harris, R. Williams (Twrfab), J Griffiths, Calfaria, J. Robertson, M.A., St. David's. Messrs. J. Morgan and Son were the undertakers. CARMEL.—Harvest Thanksgiving Ser- vices were held at Carmel English Bap- tist Chapel on Sunday. In the morning and evening appropriate sermons were preached by the pastor, tho Rev. A. B. Kinsey, B.A. The sacred edifice was adorned with abundance of fruit and vegetables, and the floral decorations were very nicely arranged. In the after- noon the quarterly meeting was held, the chairman being Mr. W. J. John. Reci- tations were given by Miss Gertie Davies, Miss Amy Minty, Master Wm. Minty, Mr. W. Roach, Misses Katie Roach, Edith May Williams, Annie Williams, M. Jones (Clifton-street), Miss Hughes (Herbert-street), Lillian Fletcher, Cassie Fletcher, Lizzie Taylor, Jennie Hopkins, and Gladys Berryman. Solos by Miss Bessie Williams, Miss "Susy Webb, Mrs. Jas. Minett, Miss L. A. Davies, and Miss Escott. Trio by Master Haydn Jones, Miss Irene Jones, and Miss Katie Roach. Prizes were distributed by the pastor to the successful candidates in a recent ex- amination, subject, "Our distinctive Baptist principles." The bunday School Choir, conducted by Mr. J. Bosher, rendered some very beautiful choruses. Accompanist, Miss Agnes May Davies, A.L.C.M. On Monday afternoon tea and sale of work were held. The tea was under the control of Mrs. Spurgeon John and Mrs. Chas. Perrett. Mrs. Ethel Price was in charge of the Flower Stall, and Messrs. W. H. Davies and Al- bert Jones had tho custody of the other stalls. Mrs. Tom Jones superintended th" arrangements.

Aberaman. OUTING.—On Monday last the first annual outing of the employees of Mr. Harry Greenhalgh was held. when a trip was taken to the Lakes of Killarney, in Ii eland. The weather was pleasantly fine, and a most enjoyable time was spent. OUTING.—On Thursdav afternoon the employees of Mr J. H Po'well's establish- ment in Lewis-street, had an outing to Pontsarn. They were favoured with de- lightful weather, and the journey was made in brakes. The company was augmented by the presence of a few friends, and upon the whole a most enjoyable afternoon was spent. THE FREE LIBRARY.—On Wednesday night a special meeting of the members of the Cwmbach Co-operative Society, was held at Saron Hall, when it was unanim- ously decided to advance a loan of X4000 to the Committee of the Aberaman Public Hall and Library. The rate of the interest is to be H';{" and the loan will be re-pay- able in yearly instalments of X500. This will now place the Committee of the Hall and Library, in an excellent position to proceed with their work, and it should come to a completion without any further trou- ble as to monetary considerations, or any other cause. PROPERTY SALE.—On Wednesday evening last, Mr W. T. Morgan, F.A.I., Auctioneer, Aberdare, conducted a sale of property at the Rock Inn, Aberaman, when a fairly large number attended. The first lot put up for sale was No. 9, Jubilee-road, Aberaman, which was sold to Mr David Powell for the sum of £180. The same gentleman also bought No 19, Jubilee-road, for the sum of X184. Lot 3 consisting of Nos. 8 and 9 Bedford-street, Aberaman, were withdrawn at the sum of £ 144. Lot No. 4, consisting of Nos. 55 and 56, Incline-row, Aberaman, were sold to Mr W. T. Howell, Solicitor, Lewis street, for the sum of X132 10s. Lots 5 and 6, viz. Nos. 49 and 54, Cwm- aman-road, Aberaman, were withdrawn at the sums of X250 and £ 240 respectively. The solicitors for the vendors were Mr J. D. Thomas, and Messrs Thomas Phillips and Son, Aberdare.

Abercynon. TABERNACLE.The annual services of thanksgiving- were held at Tabernacle C.M. on Thursday last. AMUSBMENT.—Playgoers will evi- dently welcome the return visit of Mr. Evelyn A'dell's Company, who will stage Her Sister's Honour at the Work- men's Hall on Monday night, October 71 h. S.D.F. The great Revolutionary Socialist, Mr. Quelch, will address a meeting at the Hall on Monday next. Great activity prevails among the mem- bers of the local branch of the S.D.F. in anticipation of the visit. SPECIAL SERVICES.—On Sundav the pulpit of the English Wesleyan Church, Abercynon, was occupied by Mr. Alfred Onions, C.C., miners' agent. The ser- vices were well attended, and the ad- dresses delivered were much appreciated. The collections were in aid of the Trust Fund. OBITUARY.—We regret to announce the death of Mr. Lewis Evans, Maldwyn- terrace, which occurred on Tuesday morning after a brief illness. The de- ceased was highly respected in the dis- trict, and was a fireman at the Dowlais- Cardiff Colliery. Much sympathy is felt for the family in their bereavement. ST. DONATES CHURCH. The har- vest thanksgiving services were held at the above church on Sunday and Monday evening. The preacher at all the services on the Sunday was the Rev. Peter Wil- liams, Vicar of Troedyrhiw, who preached eloquent, appropriate, and edi- tying sermons. The preacher on the Monday evening was the Rev. J. G. Jones, Vicar of Glvnta.ff. The sermon may be characterised as a cultured one, and one which made a deep impression on the minds and consciences of all present. Th6 congregations were large, and the singing excellent throughout. The les- sons on the Sunday were beautifully read by Mr. J. Edwin Jones, Ynysybwl, and of Keble College, Oxon—a nephew of our esteemed townsman Mr. Edward Jones, Bristol and Northampton Boot Stores. Credit is due to all who assist- ed to make the services attractive and helpful, especially those willing hands 'W ho decorated the church so beautifully and so tastefully. The church has made gieat progress in the district since the advent of the Rev. D. Ellis Jones to the place six vears ago. SACRED CONCERT. On Sunday evening a grand sacred concert was given by Mr. Percie G. Smith's celebrated or- chestra of forty performers, together with Madame Mills Reynolds (soprano) and Mr. Todd Jones (tenor). The concert opened with Mendelssohn's "Wedding March by the Band. Gounod's Lend me your aid was excellently rendered by Mr. Todd Jones, which was followed by an overture, Rosamunde" (Schu- bert). Madame Mills-Reynolds next gave I will extol thee." The Suite, Henry VIII." (German) was played by the or- chestra. Mr. Leo Rippen gave a. cornet solo, Le Rere D'Armour." Schubert's Symphony, "The Unfinished," was ren- dered by the orchestra. "The Last Watch" was sung by Mr. Todd Jones. Madame Mills-Reynolds rendered Mo- zart's Tell me not" in her usual style. "Faust," by the orchestra, brought the concert to a close. The playing of the orchestra was a treat, and they received a cordial welcome upon this their first visit. The conductor, Mr. Percie G. Smith, is to be congratulated upon hav- ing such a fine band of musicians. TEA.—The annual tea was held at the Workmen's Hall, Abercynon, on Mon- day, in connection with the Abercynon Branch of the Ynysybwl Co-operative Society. The committee have worked hard, and great progress is reported ac- cording to the balance sheet. The mem- bership of the branch has increased by 38 members during this quarter. The new buildings in Margaret-street have been started, and Messrs. Allan Bros., Cardiff, are busily engaged on the foun- dation work. On Monday evening a con- cert was given. A brief but interesting programme had been arranged. Mr. Charles Maddox presided. The Aber- cynon Male Voice Party, under the baton of Mr. Ben Price, rendered selections, in- cluding "The Little Church." Mr. George Whitoombe gave a solo. Mr. Alfred Onions, C.C., miners' agent, gave an instructive address upon "Co-oper- ation," briefly outlining the origin and progress of Co-operative Societies. He emphazised the advantages accruing to the workers. He referred to the ideal co-operation which Robert Owen and the Rochdale Pioneers wished to establish. He also mentioned the great need of thrift and combination among the work- ing classes. A vote of thanks to Mr. Onions was proposed by Mr John Wilton an'd seconded by Mr. William Dyer. The accompanist was Mr. Haydn Woods.

Scene at Aberdare Theatre. ARTISTES PELTED WITH MISSILES. Disgraceful scenes were witnessed at the New Theatre, Aberdare, on Monday evening. "The Private Secretary," which is being presented by Mr. Edward Graham Falcon's Co., was evidently not to the liking of the gods that evening, and they translated their dislike to dis- orderly and disgraceful actions. First of all the occupants of the gallery shouted, and then started a song to interrupt the progress of the play. Not content with this they soon began to pelt the artistes with apples, banana skins, and other missiles. The play had to be cut short owing to the scandalous behaviour. Later on, outside the building, the offenders shouted and booed, and practi- cally threatened the artistes, and the police had to drive them away. It might be added that this well-known and successful Farcical Comedy was ex- ceedingly well produced by the Co., and it was enthusiastically received by the audience on Tuesday evening. lkt it is not the kind of comedy to appeal to the occupants of the gallery—at any rate not these who frequent the Theatre on Mon- day evenings.

Aberdare Rate Reduced. At a special meeting of Aberdare, Ur- ban District Council on Wednesday, Mr W. T. Morgan, J.P., in the chair, the estimate for the forthcoming half-year was considered, and a rate of Is. 2d. in the M, being a reduction of 3d., was adopted, together with a Id. library rate.

ST. MARGARETS. At the above church on Monday evening last an organ recital was held, when Mr. W. H. Webb, I.S.M., organist of St. Elvan's, Aberdare, was at the organ. The Rev. Morgan Powell, ii.A., Vicar, presided, and com- menced the meeting with prayer. Ap- pended is the programme gone through: Organ solo, March in D (Smart); air, Angels bright and fair (Handel), by the St. Elvan's choir boys; organ solo, Sonata (Mozart), and air, Oh! for the wings of a dove (Mendels-sohn), by the choir boys. Another organ scdo, en- titled, Air, with variations," by Bee- thoven, and also an andante and presto of Haydn's composition were excellently rendered by Mr. Webb, who pleased the audience immensely with the manner in which he manipulated the organ. The item, "Waft her angels" (Handel), by the St. Elvan's choir boys, was also nice- ly sung and much appreciated. A col- lection was made which will be devoted towards the St. Margaret's Choir Fund. BEULAH.—On Sunday last the quar- terly meetings in connection with the Sunday School of the above church were held, when a large number of people at- tended. In the afternoon the following delivered recitations: Miss Nellie Ash- fcrd, a Psalm; Miss Gwladys Clapp, The beggar boy"; Miss Beckie Lam- bert, My Shadow Miss Gwen Price, a A lady sold by auction"- Miss M. E. Burt, Ned. the engine-driver"; Miss May Flint, The man at the gate Miss Edith Reed, "Little hands"; Miss Ada Burrows, "Lifes balance sheet Miss H. Davies, "Amen corner"; Mas- ter Tom Williams, "Continue to the end." A dialogue was also given by Misses P. Price and Mabel Burt, en- titled, "A changed home." Soloe were also rendered by Messrs. W. J. Watts, Jesus lover of my soul Mr. S. H. Stephens, The toilers and Mr. D. J. Knight, "When storms are round us weeping." All the items were very well rendered, and the meeting was very highly enjoyed. The secretarial duties were satisfactorily cnrried out by Mr. Arthur Williams, Jubilee-road.